Adapted from the novel by Elizabeth Craik it tells the story of John Halifax who, despite humble beginnings, becomes a highly respected local businessman. As partner in a mill he weathers the turbulent economic times of the early 1800s.
Jimmy Forbes returns to England after being on the run in Australia for 20 years. He finds that his wife has gone up in the world and become wealthy. Their children know little about him but as he observes them he realises they have problems and his cunning might come to their aid.