When Archelaus Hosken is arrested for picking pockets at the Corpus Christi Fair in Penzance in 1807, he can imagine his fate! Hanging or transportation for the impudent young near-do-well would appear to be his imminent future. Then along comes Miss Patience Polmennor with a most interesting proposition. It appears that freedom is beckoning the young thief, but is he willing to pay Miss Polmennor's price to obtain it? In this light-hearted tale, follow the hero's trials and tribulations as he attempts to solve his dilemma and ensure his future happiness.