It is October 1899 and the country is gripped by patriotism as the second campaign of the Boer War commences. Eleanor becomes the examining physician for the local Army recruiting station, to the annoyance of more than one officer, as well as Doctor Marsham, who does not approve of such duties for his fiancee. When a Dutch national is brought to the Thrift for treatment of injuries suffered in a racist attack by some British soldiers, there is staff dissention and further friction between Eleanor and Joe Marsham. When Eleanor meets the dashing young Major Guy Quarrie, she quickly falls under his spell.