It is 1750 and Daniel, the 10-year-old foundling living with
Dick Bates is worried. Dick is the owner of The Peacock
Alehouse in White Cross Street, Islington. It's a thriving
alehouse and Daniel is very happy there, looking after the
horses and sleeping in the stables. There has already been
a minor fire, which Daniel escaped from and took the horses
to safety. Is someone is trying to get rid of The Peacock?



On the opposite side of Chiswell Street from The Peacock,
Sam Whitbread's huge new brewery has been built and Sam
is making a fortune from his porter. Despite his success
and the size of his operation, he won't tolerate any
competition - and that's how he sees The Peacock.



Dick suspects that Sam Whitbread is up to no good, and
asks Daniel to act as a spy for him and let him know if he
finds out anything suspicious.



We learn just what Sam's plans are and how Dick tries to
avoid losing his beloved Peacock, which is his home as
well as his livelihood.