The film is set in the early 18th Century and involves smugglers and preventative officers. The on-shore leaders of the smugglers are a rascally lawyer and his wife who organise regular 'runs' of contraband. Richard Merivale, a wealthy young boy, whose parents are believed to have been lost at sea comes to live with them. By his efforts and with help of local children who endure many exciting adventures, the gang are brought to justice and Richard is reunited with the father.
