The story begins with Bateman Hunter in San Francisco. Bateman has come from Tahiti where he visited his close friend, Edward Bernard. In a few hours, he will be at home in Chicago. Bateman is delighted to see the long streets of the city. Mr. Hunter, his father, was waiting for him. After a hearty handshake, Mr. Hunter enquires about the news of Edward. Bateman keeps silent for a moment before saying he never wanted to talk about Edward. The two arrive home safely. Before long, Isabel Longstaffe calls and invites Bateman into a dinner. Bateman obliges and visits Isabella for night dinner.
Edward was engaged to Isabella before leaving for Tahiti. When Edward’s father became broke and shot himself, George Braunschmidt offered him a position in a branch agency in Tahiti. Edward was to return to Chicago after two years. Isabel and Edward kept on exchanging letters until she realized that her boyfriend was no longer saying when he would return. Bateman and Isabel become worried. Upon inquiry, Bateman was informed by Braunschmidt that Edward had been fired from the agency a year ago. Now, Mr. Hunter wants to establish a company in Sydney, Wellington, and Honolulu. Therefore, Bateman gets a chance to visit the cities. After visiting the cities, Bateman returns via Tahiti to look for his long-time friend.
When Bateman lands in Tahiti, he is perplexed to learn that Edward works as a salesman at a small store. Additionally, he is known as Arnold Jackson’s nephew. Arnold Jackson's reputation is ruined in Chicago by the fact that he conned people. Bateman dines with Edward and Jacksons. During the conversation, Bateman realizes that Edward has no plans of returning to Chicago. Finally, Bateman gets back to Chicago and breaks the news to Isabela. Isabela slips the engagement ring off her finger and declares her love for Bateman.
