Harold pursues writing and acting while Albert becomes involved in family affairs and welfare matters. Their increasingly bitter disagreements lead Harold to seek help and even attempt to divide their home, but circumstances repeatedly force them back together.
The local vicar asks the Steptoes if they will write an article for the parish magazine on the history of their profession. After arguing over who will write it, Harold gets the job, while Albert decides to get his own back with a crossword puzzle.
Harold is offered a role in a new play performed by the local amateur dramatic society. They are to hold a rehearsal at his house but are one actor short, so Albert is asked to take part.
When Albert's older brother dies, he and Harold go to the funeral and meet the other members of the family. After the burial, they come back to the house for the reading of the will, but the family are in for a big shock.
When Albert gets a letter from the tax people, he confesses to Harold that he has been claiming for his dead wife. The two of them start to plan what to do, when the tax inspector arrives.
Because Albert wins at most things that they do together, Harold tries to strangle him, while sleepwalking. After seeing a psychiatrist, he thinks he's cured, until he goes back home and finds out what Albert has been up to.
Harold plans to redecorate the house, but he and Albert can't agree on anything. The only solution is a drastic one.
Two convicts escape from prison and break into the Steptoes' house, holding them hostage.
