Act 1 Summary

Roebuck Ramsden sits alone in his study. He is a distinguished man who is obviously wealthy. Everything about him is polished to perfection—even his head. The state of his study indicates that he has several maids and has no lack of resources.

The parlor maid shows in Octavious Robinson, a clean cut, handsome, young man. Octavious is in morning over the death of Mr. Whitefield. Mr. Whitefield took in Octavious and his sister, Violet, when they were children, and he is upset that he never got the chance to tell him how grateful he is for Mr. Whitefield's kindness. Mr. Ramsden comforts him by telling him that Mr. Whitefield thought he was an honorable youth and that he hoped his daughter, Ann, and Octavious would one day marry.

Octavious loves Ann, but he is certain she would never have him because he...