In British India, Paul Eliot is a wealthy, powerful merchant. In nineteenth century England, where class is all-important, he takes quick offence at the easy self-assurance of men superior in rank, sensing disdain in every word. In revenge, he determines to seduce the beautiful wife of his well-born host and fellow merchant, Gerard Forston. Eliot and Eleanor flee to India, ignorant of the tragic, far-reaching consequence of their thoughtless elopement. Mirroring Paris's escape with Helen of Troy, all those connected with the lovers will be affected as their families are torn apart.