Peter Grove, in search of ginseng in upstate Pennsylvania, becomes embroiled in the events of the French and Indian War. A native of Lancaster, Grove travels throughout the Pennsylvania wilderness, as far as Fort Pitt and the West Branch of the Susquehanna. Along the way, when not seeking a young lady's hand, he interacts with many of the leading figures of the time, including Conrad Weiser, Governor Morris, John Harris, Henry Bouquet, John Forbes, Hugh Mercer, George Croghan, and numerous natives.