Benedict Miller is a humble Poole fisherman in love with his sweetheart, Alice, the daughter of a street preacher. But Benedict is seized by the Naval pressgang and taken to fight in sea battles against the French. He tries to escape but is recaptured. He will spend 3 years away from his sweetheart who is distraught by his absence and flees to Wimborne Minster to live amongst the Romany Gypsies and escape from her overbearing father.

While at sea Benedict shows great courage and is promoted to the ranks. However, his concern for his love and his disabled parents, cause him to flee and seek a way back home. After being captured once more he finds himself involved in yet another naval battle and nearly loses his life. Close to death he is rescued and nursed back to health.

But will he be able to return to his home shores and be re-united with Alice?

And if he can return, there is also one further great surprise awaiting him there.