Early in the 19th century, Lieutenant Nolan becomes involved in the Burr conspiracy. When Burr is tried for treason, Nolan refuses to reaffirm his allegiance to the United States and declares openly that he hopes never again to see or hear anything of the United States. He is court-martialed and sentenced to be placed on an American warship, never again to see his native land, or to hear mention of it. Years pass: Nolan is transferred from ship to ship in the Navy and sees action with Decatur at Algiers and later in an encounter with a pirate ship. Nolan's sweetheart, Anne Bissell, appeals in vain to a succession of Presidents to have him pardoned. When the Civil War begins, Nolan is a broken old man, passionate in his love for his country. He is finally pardoned by President Lincoln, but he dies on receipt of the news.