Karl Breitman, obsessed with the notion that he is a descendant of Napoleon, is driven to restore the monarchy in France. To accomplish this, he courts Hedda Gobert, who, he has learned, possesses Napoleon's papers. Upon winning Hedda, Breitman steals the documents, which lead him to America and the home of Admiral Killigrew where, the papers allege, the emperor's hidden wealth resides. Breitman locates a treasure map in the Killigrew house, which sends him to Corsica. However, before he can reach the buried riches, he overhears some men mocking him and challenges them to a duel. Wounded, Breitman dies with Hedda, who has lovingly followed him, at his side, taking the secret of the treasure with him.