In the cold shadows of Dublin, Francis McPhillip emerges from his hiding in the mountains, a fugitive's caution guiding his every move. Though shabbily dressed, he carries the weight of a defiant past, one in which he took a revolutionary order into his own hands. Now back in the city, he risks everything to see his family once more.

Haunted by the Past

Six months earlier, Francis had assassinated the secretary of the Farmers’ Union. The revolutionary group he was part of had explicitly advised against such drastic measures; thus, they disowned him following the event. Cast out and alone, Francis roams Dublin, a hunted man, seeking solace in familiar faces.

Reunion and Betrayal

Amidst the throngs of the impoverished, Francis finds Gypo Nolan in a dining room, greedily devouring stolen cabbage and bacon. Despite his own starving state, Francis eats from Gypo's plate and asks about the vigilance around his parents' home. Gypo, in a guarded manner, assures him the coast is clear, allowing Francis to slip away unnoticed.

The Price of Loyalty

Gypo, burdened by his own dismissal from the organization due to his connection to Francis, is tormented by his empty pockets and lack of direction. Without Francis, whose cunning once guided him, Gypo struggles to form a coherent plan. Desperation births betrayal, and he decides to turn Francis in, trading information with the police for twenty pounds. This act of treachery leads to a tragic climax when Francis, cornered, takes his own life.

A Costly Night Out

With newfound money in hand, Gypo seeks out Katie Fox, a prostitute who sometimes shelters him. He buys drinks but declines her usual offer of a bed, raising her suspicions about his sudden wealth. Their argument inadvertently reveals his betrayal, the word "informer" hanging in the air like a curse, unsettling Gypo with its stark truth.

Facing the Consequences

To maintain appearances, Gypo visits the McPhillip household, where his presence stirs a mix of gratitude and ire. While Francis’s father scorns him, blaming him for his son's fate, Francis’s mother and sister express thanks for what they perceive as his loyalty. He leaves them with silver coins, a meager compensation for his treachery.

The Organization's Judgment

A fellow revolutionary, Bartly, trails Gypo, eventually confronting him about the coins given to Francis's family. This confrontation nearly turns deadly, but a timely intervention steers Gypo to the organization's headquarters. Here, Dan Gallagher, the astute leader, offers Gypo redemption if he names the informant. Under the influence of alcohol, Gypo falsely accuses Rat Mulligan, setting a new chain of events in motion.

A False Sense of Security

Believing his lies bought him safety, Gypo exits confidently, even indulging in a street brawl with a policeman. His reckless generosity at a food stall earns him temporary admiration and a chance to escape Bartly’s watchful gaze. Yet, the illusion of safety is ephemeral, and the truth of his betrayal looms ever closer.

The Night of Reckoning

As Dan prepares for the hearing, he takes Mary, Francis's sister, along to the kangaroo court. The gathering in a dilapidated cellar sees Dan playing judge and prosecutor. Rat Mulligan’s questioning reveals his innocence, and Dan’s interrogation of Gypo paints a damning picture of his activities and sudden wealth. Under mounting pressure, Gypo confesses, sealing his fate for the moment.

The Escape

Imprisoned, Gypo recalls an escape plan he once discussed with Francis. Using his immense strength, he forces open a trapdoor, narrowly avoiding the guards' bullets. His escape sends Dan into a panic over the potential collapse of the organization, revealing a vulnerability that shocks Mary.

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