Arie grew up in the south of the Netherlands during the economic crisis of the 1930s. In a time of uncertainty and poverty, his father tried to make ends meet by smuggling. He traded various goods to Belgium, with "the rich gold" – butter – being his main commodity. Arie lived with his domineering grandmother, his disabled older sister, and his father. His mother was never mentioned; it is said she died during his birth.
Arie eagerly anticipates the moment he can accompany his father on his smuggling mission. His task would be to inspect the coastline for safety as a "forerunner." However, the smuggling life has its traitors; some warn border guards of impending smuggling activities. Tensions rise in the village and at school, especially when Arie discovers that his girlfriend Lisa's father is involved in such treacherous activities. During a nighttime smuggling mission, Arie suddenly hears something shocking about his mother, which turns his world upside down.