Wilbur Harris, the American Consul in Zanzibar, receives notice from an American detective agency that a fugitive is believed to be heading for the African coast; at the same time Bostonian Hugh Hemingway arrives and arouses suspicion by the removal of his beard. Harris believes him to be the defaulter but is equally suspicious of George Sheyer, who also fits the description. Hemingway is attracted to Polly, the consul's secretary, but does not press his hand because of her friendship with Fearing, whom he believes Polly loves. Hemingway finds evidence against Sheyer, but Hemingway confesses to the theft as a subterfuge to protect Fearing; Fearing then admits his guilt, but part of the money, which he is willing to return, is stolen. Sheyer is determined to be the thief; and learning that Polly is only Fearing's sister, Hemingway tells her of his love.