Brenton's accident and subsequent paralysis inspires Delie to turn her talents towards being a riverboat captain. Alastair resurfaces in Echuca but his enthusiasm for Delie and her art is matched by her desire to stay in Echuca. Alastair agrees to sell Delie's paintings and she uses the profits to finance the rebuilding of the Philadelphia. The crew is reassembled and the Philadelphia begins running cargo again. Alastair appeals for Delie to accept a scholarship that will allow her to study in Europe but Delie turns down the offer (and Alastair) to stay with her husband on the Murray RIver. Delia earns her Master's Ticket but work is at short supply at the Philadelphia is in debt. Ben returns from the war. Delie takes on a risky, time-sensitive job hauling wool that pushes the Philadelphia and her crew to their limits.
