This is the story of the Harvey Family and the friends they meet on their voyage to Australia. After his wife's death, Master Harvey makes a decision to move from rural England to Australia with his son Charles to start afresh and increase the opportunity available to them. On the journey they befriend Edward and Edith Marston who are brother and sister, also on their way to Australia to seek greater opportunities after their father's death. The boat encounters a storm during which Master Harvey is swept overboard. Charles develops a close bond with the Captain of the boat, Captain Roe, and they agree to go into a mercantile business, "Roe, Son & Harvey", with Captain Roe's son, once they are settled in Australia. The story describes their first years in Australia, and the friendships developed between Charles, the Marstons, the old sailor Beetlebrow and Bob Amesbury, a childhood friend of Charles who also migrated. Bob has been involved in some troubles which have impacted on his countenance, and the others are at odds as to how to help him. The group embark on a journey to New Zealand to sort out business matters during which they encounter a squall and Bob goes down with the boat. After mourning their loss, they continue with their business dealings and return to Australia where the business prospers. Charles and Edith are married and the Captain, the Harveys and the Marstons live pleasant and prosperous lives. Beetlebrow returns to England to claim an inheritance and returns having married Charles' Aunt Esther.
