Mary Jenkins has every reason to be proud; from humble beginnings, she has risen to become the overseer in the Canal Street laundry. But then Billy Gray, her sweetheart, is arrested for manslaughter, and suddenly Mary's world becomes a frightening and complicated place, torn by feuding and violence. When Billy is imprisoned she finds herself trapped between the rich Sutton brothers. Dean and Brandon hate one another, but each is determined to win Mary for himself. Once again, she must rely on her courage to find her way, and avoid total despair. . .