Hulda Hansen anxiously awaits the return of Ole Kemp, a cousin and her betrothed, and the best friend of her brother Joel. He has embarked on the fishing vessel Viking and promised her great fortune on his return. The Viking is expected to return soon, but when it doesn't, it is feared to have been lost. While this is going on, Hulda and her brother Joel also worry about their mother Dame Hansen, who hasn't been acting like herself ever since a visit from a man known as Sandgoist.

A guest staying with the family is Sylvius Hogg, who is taken with Hulda's story and uses his position within the government to help out.

One trace of the ship is found-a bottle that contains a note addressed to Hulda along with a single lottery ticket, numbered 9672. News of the tragedy and the hope of the possible riches of the lottery ticket spread around the countryside. Especially interested is the man Sandgoist.

What fortunes await the Hansen family when the day of the lottery drawing arrives?