In this production we at first see the old Roman column of a home of nobility, in the Atrium of the house of Marcius, a Roman warrior. It is his wife's birthday and he introduces his friend, Appius Ennius, who becomes enamored of the wife. We then see Marcius, his wife Marcia, and the former's quondam friend. Upon the departure of the husband and wife from the banquet room, Appius forces Ostia, a slave, to assist him in winning the love of Marcia. Favored by the emperor and at his own wish, he and Marcius are sent to the wars. We see them depart. The conniving Appius is recalled to court, and resumes his attentions to his friend's wife. But she, true to her lord and master, rejects him and repudiates his avowal of love. Then by stealth he secures a bracelet, the birthday gift of Marcius to his wife. This he does through the assistance of the slave, Ostia, and by this means endeavors to arouse doubt and jealousy in the heart of Marcius. In this he fails and in his failure receives his just deserts.