A tale of love and family troubles set in London, 1899 - Gertrude Melrose is attractive, intelligent and has a loving family; her only concern is her brother Edward, who seems intent on gambling away his inheritance. Gertie hopes that he can be made to mend his ways. But when Edward's debts lose them both home and business, their parents disown him. Gertie must find the strength of character to fight for her family - and to hold on to her dreams.