Mr. Dowling's gift of the clock is nearly complete and he prepares a celebration for the grand opening, having invited dignitaries from far and wide. He asks Dorcas to cut the ribbon, but she is quite reluctant to do so. Laura realizes that with the completion of the clock, Fisher will move on. When the last part finally arrives, she hides it, leading to tension between Dowling and Dorcas. During a wonderful family outing in Candleford, Robert's tools are stolen from the wagon. Unable to practice his craft, Robert has no choice but to work as a farm laborer at one-quarter of his normal wages. His pride will not allow any charity either. Margaret Ellison and Thomas Brown buy a tea set, their first purchase together.
—garykmcd