John Brant, his only daughter, Gene, and Jan Karl, a farmhand, live on a farm in Central Africa, near the border of the jungle. The monotony of their lives is stirred by the arrival in the neighborhood of a hunting party, about to enter the jungle to secure wild animals for an American circus. Henry Barium, the young circus owner, heads the party. He prevails on old John Brant to accompany him on the trip and, in turn, agrees that Gene and Jan Karl shall join the expedition. Jan and Gene are "as good as engaged." as the saying goes. Young Barium pays marked attention to Gene as they journey, and Jan grows jealous. One day he comes on the young people when Barium is trying to force a kiss from Gene. In the trial of strength that follows, Barium is worsted. Gene, who loves Jan, does not show that worthy due appreciation of his interference, with the result that he leaves the expedition for the Transvaal mines. Next day a noble, shaggy-maned lion is caught.