Tom Canty is a young beggar from a poor family in Offal Court, London. Tom wishes for a better life, being encouraged in this by Father Andrew, a local priest.

One day, while prowling the palace, Tom sees Edward, Prince of Wales, son and heir of King Henry VIII. Blinded by emotion, Tom is nearly caught and beaten by the royal guard trying to get close. However, Eduardo stops them and invites Tom to his room in the palace. There, both boys meet and are fascinated by each other's lives, as well as the fact that they share an incredible resemblance.