 During a ball at the Acton's house, Eugenia is introduced to Robert's ailing mother who she manages to charm.At the ball, Clifford has too much to drink and when Mr. Wentworth complains about it to Felix, he suggests that his sister influence might help the wayward youngster to improve his behavior, and indeed, Clifford begins visiting Eugenia.Meanwhile, Felix and Gertrude are falling in love.