Canada, the scene of so many of this author's novels, furnishes only the starting point for this story. When he first has news of impending war Andrew Johnstone, whose career as a soldier was early cut short by an accident, returns to his home in Scotland hoping that there will be work there even for a man who cannot fight. His friend Whitney, an American who has been his partner on many a Canadian trail and waterway, goes with him. Johnstone also has a personal reason in going home. His young cousin Harry, for whom he feels responsible, has fallen under unfortunate influences, and it is in keepIng a close watch on the two men who are distrusted as companions for the younger man that Johnstone's opportunity to serve his country comes, for they prove to be her enemies as well.