In 1866, a brilliant young orphan and his ailing younger brother are taken in by a charitable aid organization, where they catch the attention of the son of an earl, who is discontent with Britain’s class system.

Albert invites the brothers to come live at the Moriarty’s estate, but the pair are not warmly welcomed by the other members of the household. Albert grows increasingly disturbed by his family’s intolerance, and resorts to drastic measures.

William outshined the adults in knowledge and nerve while saving the orphanage where he was staying. Judicial records state that William lent a nobleman £600 in the spirit of a certain play. But when the contract is broken, William takes drastic measures.