Always short of cash, William learns of a jolly good wheeze to boost his income by sending out false begging letters to local residents in the family address book.
Mrs. Monkton-Bruce and her literary ladies group are planning an amateur dramatics event at the local Hall. They unwisely offer to pay William to help provide some sound effects for the production.
The boys find a tramp in the barn and after hearing what an accomplished lifestyle being a tramp is, they decide they would all like to grow up to be one. There is an enrollment fee for the training course however.
The Botts think that William will make a suitable playmate for their daughter Violet Elizabeth. Maybe they should have met him first. Violet can't wait to join in with the gang's outdoor games but William's pals are not so keen.
Robert's literary friend Ward has written a draft novel which he accidentally leaves at the Browns home. William just happens to need some scrap paper for a paper chase and Ward's manuscript looks ideal for the job.
William and Bertie Franks both want to buy Victor Jameson's football but do not have any money. Violet Elizabeth suggests a fund-raising nightclub event in the barn with herself as the cabaret star.
When the boys find major Franklin asleep in the barn they see an opportunity to sell him to Victor for thruppence. Problems arise when the major's relatives arrive back at the barn to finish their picnic but find the major is missing.
William is determined to rescue posh Lady Walton's children Terry, Billy and Dickie from the terrible squalor they have to endure at her mansion. No one should have to eat lobster pate.
