H.E. Bates's stories about rural English life serve as the basis for this engaging series about the supposedly unredeemable Silas (Albert Finney) -- drunkard, lecher and dedicated poacher -- who finds himself the summertime guardian of his young nephew, Edward (Joe Prospero). A close bond develops between the pair, abetted by Silas's cantankerous housekeeper, Mrs. Betts (Sue Johnston), giving Silas the opportunity to shine as a father figure.