Courtship can be a dangerous game. After his father dies under mysterious circumstances, Alexander Yarnsby is forced to split his time between his beloved country estate and London. The closer he gets to the truth, the more dangerous things become, not only for him, but for those he holds dear. Upon meeting a beautiful woman, whom he wishes to marry, he does everything in his power to run off any potential suitors. It is a dangerous game he plays, since he cannot allow his intentions known and possibly bring harm to her doorstep. Vivian Humphries does her best to enjoy the holidays in society. Hoping to find a good husband, she attends social events all over London. As the season nears its end, it becomes clear that she will remain without any possibility for marriage. The reason is the ever-present Mr. Yarnsby. When her sister comes up with a plan that she pretend to seduce him and abruptly send him away, Vivian laughs it off. However, when he runs off the most promising suitor, she decides it may be time for a game of her own.