In 1840, young Gavin Dishart (John Beal) is welcomed to a Scottish village as the new minister. Eager to be a proper shepherd to his flock, Gavin cuts a stern, stiff-necked figure. Then he meets Babbie (Katharine Hepburn), a gypsy girl who champions the poor. Soon Gavin is hopelessly in love with the headstrong, flirtatious lass who, unknown to him, is really a grand lady betrothed to an aristocrat she does not love. Based on a novel and play by James M. Barrie (Peter Pan), this endearing film showcases Hepburn's irresistible femininity as she conquers the heart of the little minister. "Can a man like a woman against his will?" he asks. "Of course he can," Babbie replies. "That's the very nicest way to be liked."