On the brink of a promising career, ambitious young author Paul Overt is thrilled when he is introduced to the celebrated novelist Henry St. George, and even more so when the older man—although now considered to be past his prime—takes him under his wing. St. George is full of wise counsel for the young writer, and following his stern warnings to cultivate solitude and independence in order to not squander his talents, Paul leaves for Europe, where he immerses himself in his work. On his return, however, he is greeted with a devastating discovery.