The story is told in a flashback by an American called David Ellington. While on a walking trip through post-World War I Europe, Ellington becomes lost, is drenched by rain and seeks shelter in a nearby castle (Wolfring Castle). He is told to leave immediately, but he collapses, shivering. Jerome finds the collapsed Ellington and sadly explains that the inability to recognize the devil has always been Man's great weakness. After Ellington leaves, the curious woman, disbelieving his story, removes the Staff of Truth barring the door.