England, 19th century: Seth Pilaster runs one of the most influential banking houses in the kingdom. When Hugh Pilaster, the capable and talented youngest member of the family, realizes that he has no chance against his less talented cousin on the career ladder due to family circumstances, he tries to drown his frustration in the dive bars of London's working-class districts. There he falls in love with poor Maisie. However, as he sees no prospects for either his professional future or his love for Maisie, he first goes to America, only to return six years later as a successful banker. To make matters worse, Maisie is now married to Hugh's best friend and the balance of power has also changed fundamentally.