
A gentle orphan discovers life and love in an indifferent adult world.

After an unexpected death, David's life seems empty and meaningless; he returns home to the end of an old friendship and the beginning of a new life.

Content in the care of his great-aunt, David grows up into a romantically inclined young man.

David's stepfather, Mr Murdstone, sends him away to school, but circumstances get tougher.

David tells the story of his life starting with the circumstances of his birth.