Two young collegians, Anthony Markham, an enigmatic person, and Alan Strange, whose temperament is the direct antithesis of his friend, compete for the honors of swimming. Both men are aspirants for the hand of Rosalie Latimer, the daughter of the banker, Latimer, to whom Alan is the confidential secretary.
Papa Ward, a portly and dignified person, sits drowsily smoking in his study as his adorable daughter, Fannie, comes and bids him good-night. Shortly thereafter Toby Bates appears on the outside of the house muffled up in auto garb and throws pebbles against the window of Fannie's boudoir.