On June 16,1778, in the woods outside Valley Forge, Ian Murray builds a cairn for his mother, Janet Murray, and his uncle, Jaime Fraser, who are presumed dead by drowning. However, they are actually alive and in Philadelphia.

Jamie discovers that his wife Claire and friend Lord John Grey married each other to protect Claire from allegations of sedition. Jamie abducts John.

William Ransom arrives at John’s house in the turmoil and learns that he is Jamie’s illegitimate son and that his foster father John has lied to him about his paternity since he was born.

William pushes his way through the dockside crowds on Market Street. He attracts the attention of a passing young prostitute and tells her that he is a bastard. She leads him into her brothel.

Claire welcomes her sister-in-law Jenny Murray into the Chestnut Street house. Claire decides that Jamie took John to Valley Forge. She doesn’t think they will go far, since Jamie will want to return to her as soon as possible.