Born in England in 1689, Royce Satterlee was orphaned at age seven. Forced to endure much abuse and slave-like conditions. He finally made it to the American colonies in 1714. Due to an unfortunate incident aboard the ship, he is dumped overboard within sight of the North Carolina shore. He manages to swim to shore. Tired and bewildered, he finds himself alone and afraid in a new and unforgiving land. He is spotted by a half-black, half-Indian, illiterate outcast, who is looking for a friend. Royce, also illiterate, needs a friend if he is going to survive in this new and harsh environment. They become fast friends, and the education of Royce Satterlee begins. On their trip to visit the land of the Cherokee, Royce suffers a near fatal attack, but survives. Later they are captured by the pirate Blackbeard, who hold them captive for four years before they miraculously manage to escape.