Returning home from a wedding party, 19-year-old Tilly Trotter is trapped by Hal McGrath, who plans to force her into marriage by raping her. Her terrified screams save her, but prompt some villagers to brand Tilly a witch.

With his reputation in tatters, Parson Ross decides to work overseas and Ellen Ross pays a secret visit to Tilly to say goodbye.

Homeless and out of work, Tilly moves in with Biddy Drew and her children and is welcomed as one of the family. Unable to find another job, she decides to sign on at the mine, a move furiously opposed by Sam Drew.

Tilly's arrival at Highfield reawakens old resentments amongst some of the staff.