When Peter Hadley, second mate of the British tramp steamer Ocean Waif, goes ashore in Philadephia looking for the sister from whom he has heard nothing for two years, he quickly finds himself caught up in a web of mystery and deceit. It does not take him long to realise that his own life is in danger. But Hadley is a tough customer and knows how to look after himself. His inquiries bring him into contact with a number of colourful, bizarre and dangerous characters who both help and hinder him in his search: a striptease artist, a burlesque comedian, the proprietor of a night club, an attractive redhead dancer, professional killers, strongarm men and dope pedlars.