Two stepdaughters of the wealthy Earl of Beckington realize that when he succumbs to his consumption—which seems to be fast approaching—the heir, their stepbrother, Augustine Devereaux, Viscount Somerton, will likely heed the advice of his fiancé instead of the wishes of his father. Instead of waiting to see what fate will befall them—they fully expect to be turned out of their grand home and put into reduced circumstance—they are determined to move first.