On the run from Ardery's prison of luxury and cruelty, Peg takes refuge with Mr. Beck, an upright pillar of the community. Behind closed doors, however, she soon learns of his secret vices, and when Kate finds her hiding place, Peg is caught in a web of sexual blackmail.

She can only extricate herself through a reluctant marriage with the lustful Beck, but when he discovers her past, only Peg's quick wits can save her. Caught between blackmail and a loveless marriage, it's not till Peg has blood on her hands that she finds out the meaning of true freedom. And then Lord Ardery reappears back in her life...