The Big Valley season 1 episode 28 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
In the midst of a severe drought, the Barkley family and their community face financial ruin. Audra Barkley encounters Scott Breckenridge, a wealthy investor offering high-interest loans to desperate ranchers. Misinterpreting his intentions, Audra believes they share a romantic connection, which leads her to offer herself in exchange for better loan terms for the ranchers. Scott, moved by Audra's courage but not willing to exploit her, ultimately rejects the offer and extends the loans without conditions. The drought ends with a timely storm, offering hope and relief to the community as Scott leaves Stockton, leaving behind mixed feelings and a wary but relieved Barkley family.
Full Episode S01E28 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Audra Barkley?
Audra Barkley is a member of the Barkley family, who owns significant land and is affected by a severe drought.
What problem are the Barkleys and their community facing?
They are facing a severe drought that threatens their land and livelihood, compounded by financial difficulties due to a bank failure.
Who is Scott Breckenridge?
Scott Breckenridge is a wealthy and successful man, known as the "Midas Man," who offers high-interest loans to desperate ranchers.
What is the controversy surrounding Scott's loans?
The loans have steep terms and are seen as predatory, taking advantage of the ranchers' desperation due to the drought.
How does Audra Barkley respond to Scott's proposition?
Audra offers herself to Scott in exchange for more favorable terms for the ranchers, misinterpreting his intentions towards her.
What was Scott's reaction to Audra's offer?
Scott is initially intrigued but ultimately rejects the offer, admiring Audra's courage but not willing to take advantage of her.
How does the drought affect the community's dynamics?
The drought exacerbates financial strains, leading to tensions between the Barkleys, their neighbors, and Scott Breckenridge over resources and support.
What solution is found for the ranchers' financial troubles?
Scott decides to extend the ranchers' loans without taking Audra's sacrifice, influenced by her courage and the potential harm of his actions.
How does the story resolve?
A storm breaks the drought, relieving the community's immediate environmental and financial pressures, as Scott Breckenridge leaves Stockton.
How does Audra feel about Scott at the end?
Audra is heartbroken and disillusioned by Scott's true intentions, realizing he was not the romantic partner she believed him to be.
What does the end of the drought signify for the Barkley family and their community?
The end of the drought brings hope and a chance to recover financially and emotionally from the challenges they faced.
Are the Barkleys involved in Scott's loan scheme?
The Barkleys are not involved in Scott's predatory loan scheme and actively seek to help their neighbors avoid falling victim to it.
What lesson does Audra learn from her encounter with Scott?
Audra learns a harsh lesson about misinterpreting intentions and the complexities of adult relationships.
What impact does Scott Breckenridge have on Stockton?
Scott leaves a complex legacy in Stockton, initially seen as a potential savior but ultimately recognized for his predatory financial practices.
How does the community plan to move forward after the drought and Scott's departure?
The community plans to rebuild and recover, strengthened by the rain and the lessons learned from the ordeal with Scott Breckenridge.