A con man and patent medicine salesman who buys a dilapidated steamboat to cruise the Mississippi with his nephew Duke. He enters a dangerous river race to gain the Governor's attention and locate the only eyewitness, New Moses, to save Duke from execution. He cleverly uses his alcohol-based tonic to power the boat to the finish line.
Pearly forcibly recruits the itinerant preacher, who later agrees to help after learning the mission to save Duke.
Eli is a seasoned competitor who openly mocks Pearly's vessel and challenges him to a high-stakes wager.
Pearly employs Efe as a permanently intoxicated crewman on the steamboat.
Pearly defends Fleety from her abusive father, establishing a loyal friendship and mentorship.
Pearly is Duke's protective uncle who funds his life and attempts to save him from execution.
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