The second volume of The Forsyte Saga chronicles the further fortunes of the Forsyte family. Irene Forsyte's first effort toward emancipation from her husband Soames ended with the accidental death of the architect who loved her. Now, after a separation of fifteen years, Soames and Irene meet again. The desire to possess her is as strong as ever, but failing to do so, Soames finally divorces Irene. The stage is now set in which John Galsworthy displays his brilliance.