At Penndean, preparations for the marriage of Edward Lannion and MarianBerran are under way. Benet, presiding over the proceedings, brought thecouple together and is anxious that all should go well. The wedding partyis to arrive the day before, and Marian, who loves surprises, will arriveon the morning of the wedding. As the guests anticipate the festivities,something shocking happens. A mysterious note from Marian is discovered,she cannot be found. Benet and his friends are distressed and confused.Edward retires into solitude. From the background emerges Benet's servantJackson, a dark enigmatic figure who seems able to change the workings ofdestiny. When he comes upon some extraordinary information he uses it totransform all it touches.