In 1890, 14-year-old Sarette is orphaned when her father dies of a snakebite on the Western Australian gold fields. John Kern, a wealthy English adventurer, rescues her from her father's villainous partner and eventually sends her to England to learn society manners. There she meets Magus, Kern's nephew, who, after Kern's tragic death, is appointed her guardian. When Magus learns his beloved uncle has left Sarette a considerable inheritance, his honesty and his heart are put to the test.