In the northern Quebec of 1929, the wealthy and powerful Munroe family faces various crises as patriarch James tries to make his hydro power plan commercially viable, son Jimmy wants out of the family business in favor of a music career, and daughter Cleo finds romance with a rum-runner.
The Depression takes its toll on James's finances, but he sees a possible solution to his woes in his son Jimmy's decision to marry the daughter of a Scottish lord, as well as his own approach toward his estranged father-in-law.
James is asked to head a special government committee as Canada enters the war, while his son James decides to enlist, and his daughter Amy joins a fascist political group.
When a worker is injured at the plant, the accident proves to be a catalyst for the release of pent-up resentment and anger. To get the 3,000 workers back on the job, a communist union is invited to "clean up".
James Munroe is 70 and it is suggested that he slow down and sell the company. A reporter, intent on getting a rare interview with Sir James, turns out to be a forthright modern woman who completely fascinates him.
1960: Munroe is an old man, rich and alone. He has not seen his wife or daughter Amy for five years. Catherine is ill and Amy comes to Munroe to reunite him with his wife.
