The Platanova home in Warsaw was one of the most inviting and exclusive in that great, city.

The professor's enthusiasm finally carried him from the conservative paths in which he had walked; after he had passed his fiftieth year he became an avowed leader among the anarchists and revolutionists in Poland, his native state.

Less than a year before the opening of this tale he was executed for treason and conspiracy against the Empire.
His daughter, Olga, was recognised as one of the most beautiful and cultured young women in Warsaw.

Her suitors seemed to be without number; nor were they confined to the student and untitled classes with whom she was naturally thrown by force of circumstance.

More than one lordly adventurer in the lists of love paid homage to her grace and beauty.
Finally there came one who conquered and was beloved.