When a baby is left with Squire Allworthy, he raises the boy as his own. Tom falls in love with neighbour Sophia Western, but she's already engaged.

Tom returns to Sophia, but is called back home because Squire Allworthy is ill and not expected to live.

Lady Bellaston is determined to separate Sophia and Tom. She plots with Lord Fellamar, who is determined to be with Sophia.

Tom placates Lady Bellaston, who schemes against Sophia; Tom gets into a fight and lands in prison; Sophia awaits Blifil to wed.

Tom runs foul of a press gang hired by Lord Fellamar, and plenty more shenanigans occur before Tom can reach Sophia.