[2] Although certain aspects of the play differ depending on the latest version (which was written in 1862) the general plot remains the same: Lady Eveline is hiding her brother, Lord Arden, in her house after he and his fellow Cavaliers are defeated in the English Civil War.

Lady Eveline is afraid that her husband, Sir Walter, a Parliamentarian, will discover Lord Arden and have him arrested.

Sir Walter comes to suspect that Lady Eveline is keeping a lover hidden in the house, and threatens to kill him.

Lady Eveline reveals the truth and Sir Walter, although sceptical at first, comes to believe her, and decides to protect Lord Arden.

Jabez Sneed, a servant that has been stealing money from Lady Eveline, attempts to escape arrest and flee aboard a ship- but his plot is discovered by Sir Walter, who plans to report him to the authorities.