Ezra Hickman, of Kankakee, is a political aspirant. At a reception in Washington with his wife and daughter Amy he meets the Ambassador of Selim Bey, the ruler of a small European kingdom, Vergania. The Ambassador, seeking an American girl for his ruler, paints a glowing picture of Vergania to Hickman's wife, with the result that she persuades her husband to accept the American Consulate at. Vergania. Amy, the daughter, is enamored of Lieutenant Brice of the U.S. Navy, and reluctantly she agrees to leave him and go with her family. Arriving at the Selim's palace, Amy becomes immediately the favorite of the Selim, and he plans to win her. Hanoum, the former favorite of His Highness, becomes angered and attempts to kill Amy at the festivities given in honor of the Hickmans. The Selim presses his advances, and learning his intent, Mr. Hickman and Amy become disgusted and resolve to leave, but they are seized and imprisoned in the castle tower.