The Rev. Ross Philips is sent to the remote Yorkshire village of Adlington to substitute for Vicar Wrenfield, who is vacationing for his health. He quickly wins the hearts of most, excepting the Vicar's daughter Gertrude, who is accustomed to running the parish in her own way. Philips peace of mind is soon shattered, however, as he stumbles upon an international conspiracy and faces the disclosure of hidden facts about his own past.