On an ocean liner traveling from Colombo to Singapore, Hugh Dawltry attempts to make connections with fellow passenger Philippa Crosby, but initially struggles to get close to her. Despite his efforts, their conversation remains limited until they both disembark at Khota, where Philippa rebuffs his romantic advances, clarifying that she is there to marry Dr. George March, who is listed as Dawltry's neighbor.
However, Philippa's marriage to George does not turn out to be the idyllic union she envisioned. George, portrayed as a dedicated doctor, is deeply engrossed in his work and even refuses to take her on a honeymoon, leaving her feeling isolated and unfulfilled. Over time, her dissatisfaction grows, and she begins to see Hugh as a more appealing presence in her life. Their mutual attraction intensifies, especially during a culturally significant period marked by native drums signaling four days of marriage ceremonies. Both Philippa and Hugh find themselves captivated by the rhythmic drums and the thoughts of each other, which seem to resonate with their desires and unspoken feelings.
Adding to this complex emotional landscape is Rene March, the 18-year-old sister of George, who faces social rejection by the expatriate community due to her connection to a scandalous and highly publicized divorce involving her brother. Her situation makes her more vulnerable and adds tension to the story. One day, George plans to embark on a trip to Colombo with a patient suffering from a rare disease, giving Hugh a chance to invite Philippa to dinner. Before this, Rene unexpectedly visits Hugh's bungalow and refuses to leave. When he intervenes, he frightens her into fleeing by physically carrying her into his bedroom, an act seen by George, who confronts his sister about her presence there. George then decides to join them on his trip, and in a threatening tone, warns Hugh that he might return with a gun to defend his honor.
As the story progresses, Philippa arrives at Hugh's house for their scheduled dinner, where they openly admit their feelings for each other. Hugh shares his past and past mistakes, inviting Philippa to join him on a sailing voyage the next day. Meanwhile, the death of George's patient leads him to cancel his trip, much to Rene's relief, as she had been concerned about being photographed with the patient. When Rene finds out about Philippa’s invitation, she tries to hide it, but George demands to see it, takes a pistol, and heads out to confront Hugh.
A tense confrontation ensues, with Hugh attempting to protect Philippa from her brother's anger. Ultimately, Philippa declares that she is leaving Hugh because of his emotional coldness and his obsession with scandal over her happiness. She tells him that any woman could take her place, and resolves to drive away in their car. Hugh quickly dresses and rushes after her, expressing that this is her last chance. However, George, armed and conflicted, is unable to pull the trigger, leaving the story unresolved with themes of love, betrayal, and societal pressure lingering in the air.
