Gabriel Oak is a young shepherd who has leased and stocked a sheep farm.

He falls in love with Bathsheba Everdene, a proud beauty.

She comes to like Gabriel well enough, but when he makes her an unadorned offer of marriage, she refuses.

After a few days, she moves to Weatherbury, a village some miles off.

An inexperienced new sheepdog drives Gabriel's flock over a cliff, ruining him.

After selling off everything of value, he manages to settle all his debts but emerges penniless.

He seeks employment at a hiring fair in the town of Shottsford.

On the way, he happens upon a dangerous fire on a farm and leads the bystanders in putting it out.

When the veiled owner comes to thank him, he asks if she needs a shepherd.

She uncovers her face and reveals herself to be none other than Bathsheba....