In which a singular gentleman becomes passionately devoted to a street puppet show, transforming the once quiet Bevis Marks into a lively, if troublesome, scene of merriment and disturbance, to the chagrin of his unwilling landlord. In the course of convivial debate and strong drink with the showmen, the gentleman seeks news of a mysterious old man and child who travelled with them, hoping that an acquaintance with a stranger might unlock the secret of their whereabouts.