Summary
A dramatic narrative unfolds as Liza Gott, a widow living on the northern coast of Maine, discovers a stranger on her porch after keeping a lantern lit for over four decades in hopes of her husband's return. The man, Frank Berkman, claims to have survived a torpedo attack on his ship and seeks refuge. However, Liza's instincts lead her to suspect he may not be who he claims, prompting her to contact counter-spy headquarters in Washington.
As the story progresses, it is revealed that Berkman is actually a German spy, Dr. Slesson, sent to gather intelligence on American military advancements. The local community, led by Liza and a government agent named Harding, rallies to capture the spy and prevent his escape. They devise a plan to use local fishermen to intercept a German submarine expected to retrieve Slesson, showcasing the community's bravery and patriotism during wartime.
The episode culminates in a tense confrontation at sea, where the fishermen successfully thwart the submarine's mission, leading to the capture of the German crew. The narrative concludes with a poignant tribute to Captain Stinson, a local fisherman who died in the struggle, highlighting the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens in defense of their country.