The story begins with Tito Melema's arrival in the beautiful city of Florence. Tito, a young and charming scholar, is full of talent and ambition but lacks a strong sense of moral responsibility. He begins a new life with the help of the blind scholar Baldassarre, though seeds of betrayal are sown early on. Tito encounters Romola, an intelligent and strong-willed woman, and takes his first steps into love and desire. The social complexities of Florence and its people are introduced, revealing Tito's dual nature and internal conflicts. He starts making choices driven by ambition, relying on lies and self-justifications. Romola's household and her father’s scholarly pursuits serve as a central backdrop. Baldassarre begins to question Tito's actions, hinting at future revenge. These elements unfold against the dynamic stage of Florence. The narrative sets the groundwork for intertwining destinies as it moves toward its first major turning point.

PROEM.
CHAPTER I. The Shipwrecked Stranger
CHAPTER II. Breakfast for Love
CHAPTER III. The Barber’s Shop
CHAPTER IV. First Impressions
CHAPTER V. The Blind Scholar and his Daughter
CHAPTER VI. Dawning Hopes
CHAPTER VII. A Learned Squabble
CHAPTER VIII. A Face in the Crowd
CHAPTER IX. A Man’s Ransom
CHAPTER X. Under the Plane-Tree
CHAPTER XI. Tito’s Dilemma
CHAPTER XII. The Prize is nearly Grasped