The year is 1793 and after four years spent ashore, the thrill of the high seas awaits Alan Lewrie once more. Finding life as a gentleman farmer and family man oppressive, Lewrie is gratified when Revolutionary France threatens war and the Royal Navy beckons. All does not go smoothly, though, as he soon finds himself aboard the HMS Cockerel dealing with a difficult captain and disgruntled crew. Once in the Mediterranean, he throws caution to the wind and becomes involved with the bewitching Lady Emma Hamilton. When the war escalates, he finds himself at the Battle of Toulon, where he meets a dashing young Napoleon Bonaparte. Outnumbered three to one, Lewrie takes on the French in a desperate bid to help the Royalists escape.