Set in northern Africa preceding World War I, a colt named Lucky is born aboard a German cargo ship carrying a herd of mine workhorses to Africa. He is stranded when they swim ashore, and the love of an orphan boy who works in the stables helps him to grow strong. The stable is abandoned as war approaches and Lucky fears he must face the African wild alone. But the friendship of an Oryx antelope and a native girl will help Lucky to overcome even the greatest adversity.