In the coastal town of Moonfleet in eighteenth century Dorset, an orphan, John Trenchard, dreams of the infamous Blackbeard's treasure - and of the wealth and happiness it will bring him. However, John's search draws him into the company of local smugglers led by Elzevir Block, and forces him to go into hiding with a price on his head - little guessing the adventures and misfortunes he will face before he sees Moonfleet and the girl he loves again.