A weathered stranger delivers an old wicker chest to the Carbuncles' doorstep. In it they find two sleeping baby boys and an enchanting silver-stringed instrument. For the sake of appearing charitable, the Carbuncles take the boys in, but William and Jules are consigned to the chilly attic, and the dulcimer is locked away -- until William is old enough to play it.


In an unforgettable journey, William discovers a natural musical talent and the key to unlocking his and Jules's mysterious past.