During an outbreak of the plague in London in 1664, a cynical gravedigger seeks to buy back his daughter, Dalia, from a ruthless brothel owner. Meanwhile, Dalia has fallen in love with a young romantic idealist, who does not know the true nature of her trade. When her lover uncovers her secret, he is heartbroken and flees to fight the Dutch in the 2nd Anglo-Dutch War. Yet the young swain cannot forget Dalia. He returns after the battle of Lowestoft a hero and undaunted in his love. However, he finds the object of his affection dying of the plague. As the Great Fire of London rages outside, the young man refuses to leave Dalia's side, as the two star-crossed lovers become engulfed in flames.