In November 1775, an officer of the Hessian army deserts from Ziegenhayn fortress. Captain Claus von Haynau is keen on capturing the man, but his plans are foiled by his half-brother, Robert. The deserter turns out to be one Soermann, a former friend of Robert's father who disappeared 20 years ago and is presumed dead. Now, Robert finally learns what really happened: His father did not die but went to America. Robert decides to follow, but has not counted on Claus - and on the Landgrave of Hesse's need for soldiers to sell to the British for the fight against the rebellious American colonists.