The story is set in Tasmania and relates how a family finds God. Mrs Seacombe has lost her husband and this convinces her that her son Herbert should start attending Sunday School and be more inclined to religion. Herbert, however, is not overly pleased as he would rather be spending his time outside. He tries to reason with his mother that he could do his readings at home; however, his mother does not relent. Herbert is reluctant at first, but the teacher, Mr Cooper, is good at discerning moods and notices that Herbert is not attending with a willing mind, so he sets himself the task to win his confidence and lead him to Jesus. During the December holidays, they go on a boat trip to Port Arthur. Mr Cooper and Herbert bond on this trip as Cooper relates the story of Agnes Dennison, who never faltered in her Christian faith and brought many a person round to the work of God through her endless work within the wider community. Herbert becomes dedicated to attending his lessons and applies what he learns at Sunday school to everyday life, demonstrating to the rest of the family and their staff, including their former-convict servant Duncan, the Christian path to which many convert or reacquaint themselves with through his example.
