Worshipped as a national savior, Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson masterminded the naval victories that thwarted Napoleon's plans to invade Britain. Yet, in the midst of public adulation, rumors swirled about his private life. Nelson took a friend's wife as a mistress and even fathered a child by her in secret. Seen through the eyes of four people close to him: his wife, who feels bitter and betrayed; his friend, who helplessly loses his wife to a hero; his captain, who admires Nelson's bold leadership; and an ordinary seaman, who turns to his commander for inspiration while facing death.