Ellie has recurring nightmares of a child surrounded by early nineteenth century luxury who is kidnapped. She always wakes to sparse surroundings and a life devoid of love. Yet she still dares to dream that she will find love. Living in the Old Hall with her Aunt Gertrude and cousins Sybil and Dorcas, she feels as if she neither belongs to the family nor the ranks of the few servants. The reason for this being, as her aunt frequently reminds Ellie, the scandal of her mother who eloped with a Frenchman. The scandal apparently cast a long shadow over Ellie and the family. When her aunt informs Ellie a suitor has been found, Ellie's initial excitement turns to dread and humiliation. Ellie feels desolate when Mr Montgomery Cookson arrives. However, all is not as it seems, and Ellie has a glimpse of a brighter future, but will it come to pass? As Christmastide approaches so Ellie is forced to take drastic action!