In which young Edward Waverley wrestles with the secret flights of his romantic imagination amidst the sober counsel of family and friends, whose designs set him on a martial career contrary to his inclinations and amidst the uneasy politics of the age. His sudden transformation into a military man eclipses earlier youthful fancies, leaving behind a maiden’s dreams and the quiet life of Waverley Chase as duty calls him to don the badge of arms.