This novel revolves around Lanton Place. Once Lanton Place had been one of the historic landmarks in mid-Devon. Lanton Place as described in the novel has always been famous for its magnificent history and beauty. The novel follows the tragic story of a cunning family whose two generations of Dorn's recklessness have irrevocably wrecked the family's fortunes while bringing themselves to the verge of ruin. Major Dorn, his wife, and their daughter were content to hide their heads in the ruins of a great historic house.