It is 1803, and Great Britain is at war with France. James Farrant, a naval lieutenant is enjoying the comforts of home while his ship is being repaired.

Coerced into Intelligence by a friend of his father's his adventures lead him into many situations where his inexperience is more of an aid than a hindrance. An adventure story in the finest tradition, our "hero" saves the day, and finds his future wife in the concluding pages.