Join old Peter Lane, a whimsical character living on a houseboat along the picturesque Mississippi River. Peter spends his days whittling and enjoying the tranquility of life—until an unexpected knock at his door changes everything. One fateful night, a weary woman arrives, cradling her sickly son, Buddy. This chance encounter ignites a heartwarming friendship as Peter vows to protect and raise Buddy as his own, all while fending off those who seek to claim the orphan for themselves. (Note Although the online text suggests the absence of chapter 7, rest assured that all chapters are included in this recording.) - Summary by Roger Melin