THE GREAT STEAMSHIP MARQUESS lies without power and drifting in the midst of a fierce North Atlantic storm. With a huge hole in her side, she lists dangerously and may sink at any moment. Captain Paul Henriques has seen his crew transferred to a passing liner, but will not abandon the vessel entrusted to his command. His only chance lies in the arrival of deep-sea tugs from Boston, five hundred miles to the west. While his vigil extends from hours to days, Henriques is assailed by memories of an extraordinary life and wonders if an ancient family emblem will work its magic once more.