Adrift in a life-raft in the middle of the ocean, Sophie and her father are eventually rescuesd by a Spanish frigate. Captain de Vega takes care of them and sails them to the mouth of the Mississippi River. Here they are welcomed to Mr Fichini's plantation by his adopted daughter, Fedora. Sophie is very sad about the tragedy she has been through but Ma'Vone, her nanny, helps her through. One whole year goes by and Sophie is nine years old now. She befriends Jim who shows her the bayous. Meanwhile, Sophie's father and Fedora announce that they are to be married. Sophie is not happy about this.