Sinful Davey

In a British prison in the early 1800s, Davey Haggart sits writing his memoirs while awaiting execution. The narration uses flashbacks and his voice-over to tell the tale of his misdeeds and adventures. This opening frames the story and underscores the deadly stakes he faces.

In the opening flashback, Davey marches with the British Army and drums. He deserts by leaping off a bridge with his drum and floats away, leaving behind the life of a soldier. The bold escape sets him on a path toward a lifetime of crime rather than discipline.

His father was a highwayman who was hanged at 21 for attempting to rob the Duke of Argyll. Davey resolves to exceed his father's number of crimes, driven by bravado and the lure of infamy. The family history casts a long shadow over his choices and fuels his ambition.

Annie, a childhood friend who is in love with him, follows him at different times. She sometimes pulls him out of trouble but also hopes he will reform. Her presence adds a moral counterpoint to Davey's daring lifestyle.

Davey winds up becoming a partner with MacNab, a pickpocket and thief, sometimes teaming up with other criminals. Together they navigate the streets and schemes of crime. Their partnership marks the escalation from petty theft to more audacious heists.

The two land in prison, where Davey breaks into the women's quarters and starts a raucous party led by Jean Carlisle. The riot showcases his charm and willingness to push boundaries even within confinement. The other inmates join the revelry, heightening the chaos.

Annie bails Davey out of prison, giving him another chance. He then engineers MacNab's escape and resumes their life of highway robbery.

Constable Richardson tries to recruit Annie to help capture Davey, but she refuses. The tension between loyalty and law adds another obstacle in Davey's pursuit of freedom.

Davey goes into hiding in the Scottish Highlands, but still gets into trouble. His fugitive life does not stop him from seeking new schemes and challenges. The remote setting provides cover yet cannot contain his impulses.

Davey foils an attempted assault and robbery of Sir James Graham, nephew of the Duke of Argyll, who invites Davey to his uncle's manor. The act earns him a rare invitation into high society and puts him on a collision course with the Duke's world. The invitation showcases Davey's charisma and the questionable line between freedom and privilege.

While Davey wins the favor of the Duke and his family, MacNab, Jean, Annie, and Constable Richardson converge on the estate at different times. The mansion becomes a crossroads where loyalties clash and plans overlap. Davey's charisma masks the growing danger of his double life.

Davey sets up an elaborate robbery of guests at a grand ball hosted by the Duchess of Argyll. Annie returns the stolen jewels, complicating the plan. Richardson recognizes Davey as the thief and a chase erupts as he steals a horse, only to be knocked off by a low-hanging tree branch.

The narrative returns to Davey's prison cell as he finishes writing his memoirs, expecting execution. Annie and MacNab sabotage the gallows, allowing Davey to escape once again, riding away with Annie.