The third episode of 1923 Season 2, titled “Wrap Thee in Terror,” was nothing short of horrifying. From start to finish, the tension was relentless, leaving viewers on edge. Fortunately, Episode 4 doesn’t carry a name as ominous, but “Journey the Rivers of Iron” hints at a dangerous voyage ahead. Given the history of train travel in the 1920s, particularly for women traveling alone, Alexandra’s journey will likely be perilous.
But before we look ahead, let’s unpack Episode 3. The episode opens with Jacob, Jack, and the ranch hands trapped in snow, struggling to break free. Zane is in dire condition, yet his main concern remains his children. He pleads with Jacob to burn the wagon to keep them warm, but Jacob refuses—without it, they won’t survive the journey home. Despite his insistence that he can ride, Zane is barely holding on. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, chaos ensues. Dr. Miller tends to Liz, who is terrified and refuses treatment, forcing Cara to step in with some tough love. Liz is finally convinced to take her rabies shot, but her trauma reaches a breaking point. She packs her bags, ready to leave the ranch—and possibly Jack—behind. However, an unexpected revelation, possibly a pregnancy or Spencer’s return, will change everything.
As for Alexandra, her arrival in America is anything but welcoming. At Ellis Island, she faces intense scrutiny over her identity. Initially introducing herself as “Alexandra of Sussex,” she quickly switches to “Dutton” to avoid trouble. However, things take a dark turn when she is marked as pregnant during a humiliating medical examination. To make matters worse, she learns that expectant mothers are often sent back unless they “find a way” to stay. Refusing to compromise her dignity, Alexandra pleads her case, impressing an immigration officer with her intellect. Against the odds, she is granted entry into the U.S.
Her struggles are far from over. Upon reaching Grand Central Station, she books a ticket to Billings through Boston. However, danger lurks. While using the restroom, she is attacked by a man trying to steal her belongings. In a desperate act of self-defense, she severely injures her attacker, leading to potential legal trouble.
Meanwhile, Spencer faces his own peril in Fort Worth, navigating a dangerous bootlegging operation. With armed men blocking the road, tension mounts, setting the stage for more explosive action.
As 1923 moves forward, the stakes have never been higher. Episode 4 promises intense confrontations, life-altering choices, and a journey that will test every character to their limits. Will Alexandra make it to Montana? Will Liz truly leave Jack? And can Spencer outmaneuver the dangers ahead? One thing is certain—this season is just getting started.
