Irishman Charles Adare travels to take up a fresh life together with the support of his cousin who has just been appointed . When he arrives he meets Sam Flusky, who wants to execute a small business deal to ex-convict and landowner. Whilst attending a supper party at Flusky's house, Charles meets Flusky's wife Henrietta who he'd known as a young child in Ireland. Henrietta is a alcoholic and appears to be on the point of madness.