Cathie Prentice returns to Matlock with a 4-day-old illegitimate baby which was born in Melbourne to save the reputation of the family. Her intention was to try and marry the father, Ray Turner, but he has since become engaged to a wealthy grazier's daughter. Then a shy Brian Woods arrives in Matlock and seeks the help of the police in finding Cathie, as her departure from the hospital was most irregular. In her disturbed psychological state of mind, Cathie leaves the baby at a deserted farmhouse and goes in search of her former lover. The Matlock police launch a desperate search to try and save the life of the baby.