Becky masters the fine art of living well on nothing a year, proving that a respectable public appearance is all you need to get credit. Her flirtation with Lord Steyne at least provides a reliable source of income, but the Sedley family are less fortunate. With her finances in tatters, a devastated Amelia is forced to send her son to live with the Osbournes. Becky rises to the very top of high society, even securing a royal audience – but Steyne expects something in return for his patronage, and when Rawdon is accosted by bailiffs, he seizes his chance.