Jack Dobbs starts to gamble and dissipate when he inherits a fortune from his rich uncle. In a few years he has squandered the entire fortune and is heavily in debt to the proprietor of a gambling club. He appeals to all his friends who welcomed him while he had money, but finds they do not know him when he is penniless. Finally, in desperation he forges a check to pay his gambling debts. He is caught and sent to prison for fifteen years. At the end of his term he leaves the prison an old and broken man. He is friendless and unable to earn a living, finally dying the death of a pauper after going for days without food.