England in the 19th century. Rodney, Hal and Mary Ellen are each other's best friends. All kinds of dramatic events in their youth led to that strong bond. Including the murders of Rodney and Hal's fathers by the same men. Their friendship is put to the test again when Mary Ellen becomes more attracted to Rodney. He seduces her for one night. When it turns out that she is pregnant, Rodney runs off. Hal then marries Mary Ellen in order not to have her child born illegitimately. Their marriage isn't perfect, but it isn't bad either. Nineteen years later, an American shows up and begins courting their daughter. Hal sets out to find the stranger's true identity.