Harvey is the son of a wealthy railroad tycoon, and is spoiled and largely unaware of the ways of the world. When he is stranded on the shore of the Grand Banks after having been washed overboard from his transatlantic steamship, he meets the Captain of "We're Here" and has to accept a position on his ship. Harvey's adventures on the ship teach him about industry and consideration for others while Kipling weaves in themes of class differences and humility.