The central figure in this story is Ben Wharton, who in 1595, when he is 12 years old, becomes cabin boy aboard Raleigh's ship. He joins Raleigh on his quest for the legendary 'City of Gold' in South America. Ben can't wait for this great adventure, but little does he know what awaits him - endless weeks at sea, thirst, hunger and warlike natives. But Raleigh and his men are prepared to risk anything for the sake of gold...