Anthony, the hero of this novel from Brighton, is ashamed of his poor background, and of his criminal record for having helped his father, a petty criminal, commit a robbery. He rehabilitates himself with the help of his employer, who becomes a friend.

He falls in love with a girl from an affluent family but misleads her and her parents about his past and his background. When the time comes to face his own lies, he finds no choice but to leave Brighton. He moves to London, becoming prosperous but emotionally unhappy.

The girl eventually marries someone and raises a family, but never forgets her former lover, her ideal. On a chance trip to London to get away from marital troubles, she runs into Anthony.

But the reunion does not come to fruition. The hero is heartbroken and decides to end his life. Can there be a solution that makes them both happy?