In New Hampshire in 1777, Dick Dudgeon's father dies. Called back home to the unhappy family he revolted against years ago, Dick finds he has been named heir, much to the horror of his religious mother (Elizabeth Spriggs). And to complicate matters, the British, led by General Burgoyne (Ian Richardson), have arrived and are readying for an execution. As events reach a crisis, Dick, the self-proclaimed "Devil's Disciple," finds he must confront his true nature, as must the village minister (Patrick Stewart).