Ep 4. Episode 4

In Harlots season 2 episode 4, we continue to follow the ongoing feud between Margaret Wells (Samantha Morton) and Lydia Quigley (Lesley Manville) as they compete for control of the brothel industry in 18th century London. Margaret's daughter, Charlotte (Jessica Brown Findlay), has returned from her stint as a virgin courtesan to find her mother's business struggling due to Lydia's influence and her own previous missteps. Meanwhile, Lydia is dealing with her own issues as she tries to maintain her power over the other madams while also keeping a secret from her benefactor, Sir George Howard (Hugh Skinner).

As the episode begins, Margaret is working to expand her business by enlisting the help of an artist to create a series of erotic paintings to sell. She's also dealing with the fallout of Charlotte's actions, which put the entire brothel in danger. Charlotte, on the other hand, is determined to prove herself by taking on a high-paying client, but finds herself caught between her desire for independence and her mother's guidance.

Lydia, meanwhile, is trying to protect her position within the brothel world by making a deal with a powerful lord. She also receives a surprise visit from a long-lost relative, who threatens to expose her secrets if she doesn't provide him with money. But Lydia refuses to be blackmailed and instead uses her cunning to turn the situation to her advantage.

Throughout the episode, tensions rise between Margaret and Lydia as they each try to gain the upper hand. Margaret's attempts to expand her business are met with resistance from Lydia, who sees her as a threat. Charlotte's actions put her at risk, and she must navigate the dangerous waters of the brothel world on her own. And Lydia's secrets threaten to be her downfall as she tries to maintain her power.

Overall, Harlots season 2 episode 4 is a thrilling continuation of the ongoing feud between Margaret and Lydia, with plenty of twists and turns to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The characters are complex and nuanced, and the show's depiction of 18th century London is both gritty and glamorous. Fans of historical dramas and strong female characters will not want to miss this episode.