London, 1899. As she prepares for a glittering ball, 20-year-old Gertrude Melrose considers her good fortune. Attractive, intelligent, with a loving family, her only concern is her brother Edward, who seems intent on squandering his inheritance. A few days later the Melrose family’s happiness is shattered when Edward’s mounting debts threaten to destroy their prosperity, with the loss of both house and business. Edward is disowned by his father, and Gertie and her parents must face up to their changed circumstances. But with the support of Edward’s friend David, and Alexander Glendale, one of Gertie’s spurned suitors, Gertie finds the strength of character to fight for her family and, ultimately, to hold on to her dreams…