In this episode, the narrator recounts a chilling encounter with a mysterious and unsettling man who questions his education and issues threats. The man later demands money from the narrator, assuming he is wealthy, and insists on receiving it the next day. The situation escalates when the man confronts Judge Thatcher, leading to legal troubles and attempts to separate the narrator from him. Despite efforts at reformation by a new judge who shows kindness and discusses temperance, the man tragically relapses into drinking, resulting in chaos and disappointment among those trying to assist him.