Set in the same Scottish Border country as Music in the Hills and Winter and Rough Weather, this story is seen through the eyes of someone born and bred amongst the bold, round border hills. David Kirke's childhood is sheltered, his nature is gentle and peaceable; he is no hero of romance but a human being with faults and failings which lead him into trouble when he adventures into the world to seek his fortune. The background of the book are the hills of home and the noise and bustle of London; in the foreground are the people, alive, vigorous and full of responsibility, who play their parts in the shaping of David's life.