Anne Gardiner's father isn't a well man. The "Colonel" wears full regimentals every day and brandishes a sword with convincing flourish. But the only real battle is Anne's -- living as a gentleman's daughter on a pauper's means. When newcomer Robert Weston stops by the Gardiner cottage on his inspection of his newly inherited estate, Anne accidentally topples into his arms from a ladder. The Colonel, mistaking the scene, demands honor for his daughter and a hasty "marriage" is arranged within the hour to keep him calm. The horrible farce behind her, Anne leaves town for a week. On her return, she learns that the Colonel's recounting of events has done painful damage to her reputation. Even the best efforts of her pastor and church family can't stem the tide of rumors. As Anne and Robert work through the knotty problem, mutual admiration grows. Could a real marriage be the answer to the heartache caused by a false one?