Ulster in 1912. In the border territory of Donegal Protestant farmers of the rich Lagan Valley confront the hill-farmers of Catholic Gaeldom, driven out from the lands their ancestors once owned. There is consternation as a Catholic family, the Godfrey Dhus, buys into the Protestant enclave. In far-off Dublin the Easter Rising takes place, and the "Troubles Times" spread through the Irish countryside. Insurrection is followed by Civil War. "Knife" Godfrey Dhu is at the centre of the fight on the Republican side and fiery red-headed Nuala Godfrey Dhu is its inspiration. She is courted by Catholic Phil Byrne, Protestant Sam Rowan and the wistful, fair-minded Doctor Henry. Which of them will carry the day?