Jonathan Swift, stern Cape Cod businessman, has ambitions for his children, Emily and Noah, which are thwarted when they take romantic interests in Capt. Joe Cradlebow and Becky Keeler, respectively. Not realizing that Becky expects a child and has been promised marriage, Swift has Noah shanghaied, while Becky stows away on Cradlebow's vessel. There is a terrific storm; but Cradlebow rescues Noah, and the fleet returns safely to shore--thanks to lighthouse keeper Bijonah Keeler, Becky's father, who sets his house afire to give the sailors light. Realizing his foolishness Swift relents allowing his children marry whom they please.