Louisa is furious to learn that her landlords would like to terminate the lease and are looking for a breach of it on her part. So far, there is none, but life at the Bentinck is never dull and seldom free of trouble.

Louisa's success as a cook has brought her the notice of the Prince of Wales and of society. Louisa is approached from all quarters by potential suitors.

Every year at the Bentinck, Louisa gives a Servants' Ball where the guests wait upon the staff and usually the evening is a great success. However, on this occasion, a seemingly personable young man decides to cause trouble.

The summer of 1904 sees the Bentinck full of visitors. Louisa is delighted with her first rich American guest. She is less delighted when she finds that the three parties are becoming involved with each other in a way that borders on the criminal.

The Bentinck's hall porter and his dog Fred have become valued members of Louisa's staff and the fact that is little known about Starr's past doesn't seem to trouble anyone. Then one day he receives a visitor.

Charlie Haslemere decides that it is time he married and settled down. Louisa approves of his choice, but an old flame of Charlie's feels that she has a prior claim.

By the spring of 1902, Louisa's hotel has become the toast of London and she herself is the vital spark, which fires the heart of society. Her food is exquisite, her wine superb, and her personality can be matched by none. But can this state of affairs last forever?

Charlie Tyrrell has become disillusioned with his new lifestyle as Lord Haslemere and is beginning to feel sorry for himself. However, a guest at the Bentinck brings Charlie to his senses with a horrifying revelation.