Jocelyn Leigh, trying to avoid a marriage to the loathed Lord Carnal, travels to the American colonies on a "bride ship" with her maid. Upon arriving in Virginia, she is disturbed by the harsh reality and marries Capt. Ralph Percy for safety, eventually falling in love with him. However, Lord Carnal tracks her down and has Percy arrested. Percy breaks free and rescues Jocelyn from Carnal's ship, but takes Carnal along in their small boat during a tumultuous storm. They find themselves at a pirate's hideout, but with Percy's bravery, they escape and are taken to England. Here, Carnal causes Percy's re-imprisonment and is promised Jocelyn's hand. With help from Lord Buckingham, Percy defeats Carnal in a duel and is reunited with Jocelyn.