Esben
Esben Lykke-Seest is a school boy who gets in trouble at school when a classmate put the teachers watch in his pocket. In fear of punishment he runs away at sea and starts his adventure....
Edvard
Widowed Klara James, which has a son Robert, is adored by Captain Frank, but he wants her married to a count, which ultimately is recognized as a spy.
Jens 'lille-Jens'
The sibling Beate (17) and Jens (12) have lost their parent in a train accident, and their remote family tries to get rid of the children to get hold of the land and properties.