It is the beginning of the War of 1812. America is still a young, uncertain nation, defending herself against the armies of England once again. In Washington, President James Madison and his popular wife Dolly welcome into their home the lovely Jeanne Siousat, niece of their Master of Ceremonies. Having travelled for months from her home in Louisiana to Washington with the reluctant Claiborne Kent, this young Frenchwoman becomes a companion to Dolly and eyewitness to the events leading to the capture and burning of Washington and the White House.