In the 1830's in northern England, Riah Millican, a widow with three children, takes a job as housekeeper to a reclusive former teacher, Percival Miller. Miller gives Riah the gift of a black velvet gown and educates her children. But when Riah discovers the reason behind the gifts, she vows to leave his house. But Miller has a hold on her, and after his death, he leaves his house to her.
