Informed by his steward that an earl and a young woman have rented a farmer's cottage on his estate, Robert Rothwell, Earl of Tenbury, decides to investigate. The peer turns out to be a six year old boy and the young woman his aunt, Charlotte Bishop. Tenbury is thwarted by Miss Bishop in his initial efforts to ascertain why the odd pair is living in such poverty. Annoyed by her attitude, he doggedly pursues his inquiries, assisted by friends and family. Meanwhile the beautiful young woman and her nephew, Will, win the hearts of a number of his relatives. She welcomes their friendship and warmth but remains cool and aloof toward Tenbury himself. He eventually makes discoveries that lead to dramatic changes in the lives of Charlotte Bishop and the child. Discoveries of another sort draw the inquisitive Tenbury and the prickly, proud Charlotte together in a romantic tale laced with pathos, passion, and humor.