The American Civil War is in full swing. Both sides need weapons; the South more than the North. In the mid nineteenth century Tyneside was an important centre for the manufacture of weapons. To stop the South buying these weapons the North has sent a diplomat and a secret agent to Tyneside to negotiate with Sir William Armstrong to stop the South purchasing the new Armstrong Gun; keeping the two side apart is a dangerous business. When the two sides do meet they are in for a shock. They have more in common than the fact they are Americans. By chance into this network of spies is drawn local actor and comedian Rowley Harrison aka Geordie Black. His local knowledge embroils him in an unexpected adventure. To the Americans Newcastle is full of quirky characters. They sing, dance and never stop talking.