Plantagenet has achieved his goal and is hosting his first party as the Chancellor of the Exchequer, although it is actually Glencora that is key to its success. Mr Finn arrives soaked from the rain, and sets everyone to talking, about his politics and his eligibility as a bachelor. Among the new characters that will become important to the story are the Chilterns, Laura Standish, Violet Effingham and Robert Kennedy. Also new is Madame Max Goesler who, because of her attractiveness to the Duke of Omnium, is worrisome to Glencora. As Finn begins to enter the corridors of power he foolishly puts his name on a bill for Lawrence for 300 pounds. This act will come back to haunt him. While having a sweet Colleen at home, and setting many hearts aflutter in England and Scotland, the first woman that Phineas sets his cap for is Laura Standish. Unfortunately, she has already accepted a proposal in marriage from Mr Kennedy. As we close Phineas is preparing his maiden speech in for Par