Lita, a Spanish dancer in a Marseilles cafe, causes American sailor Jerry Flanagan to leave his ship and set out to conquer her, which he does after considerable effort and misunderstanding. On their wedding day, Olaf Swenson claims her; and in a fight the Swede dies as a result of Jerry's blow. Jerry is sentenced to prison as a result of Lita's testimony at the trial and refuses to see her, believing she deceived him. In despair, she makes the acquaintance of Pierre, a brutal prison guard, and becomes engaged to him, hoping thus to see Jerry. Madame Durand, the warden's wife, senses the situation and informs Jerry of her plan; he sends word to Lita to desist, but his message is intercepted by Pierre. Blochet, a prisoner, instigates a prison revolt; Jerry takes over and thwarts his plans but is wounded by the guards. The prisoners surrender; Jerry is awarded a pardon and is reunited with his wife.