As Marmee waits by her husband's sickbed in the army hospital, the March sisters must learn to cope without their parents. Meg is shocked and embarrassed to hear rumours circulating in society that Marmee is trying to marry her off to Laurie, and after an incident at Amy's school, Jo must take charge whilst trying to balance her family responsibilities and her writing. Beth helps a poor German immigrant family suffering from scarlet fever, but her life is thrown into danger as she also falls ill, and Amy is sent away to take over as Aunt March's companion. One evening, Laurie tries to share his feelings with a distraught Jo, but she rebuffs his advances.

On Marmee's return, relief sweeps over the family as they prepare for Christmas. Jo also receives promising news regarding her writing. Meanwhile, John Brooke prepares to join the army and declares his love to the unsuspecting Meg. Aunt March's sharp disapproval puts Meg's feelings into perspective and she accepts his proposal of marriage. The family holds a joyous ceremony upon John's return, but at the wedding Jo grows anxious when she notices that Beth is still weak and Laurie still holds out hope for their future as a couple. Show less