When Cecilia and her mother are introduced to an eminent Egyptologist, Professor Constanides, while staying in Cairo for the winter, they are captivated and charmed. Cecilia in particular spends much of her leisure time in his company.
One night she returns early to the hotel from a party at which she had been alone on the balcony with the mysterious Professor. Although she retires early, it is not to sleep. She stands on her balcony, and feels herself strangely compelled to leave the hotel and set out at night alone on the streets of Cairo.
Before long, she is joined by the strange Professor, who whisks her away in a carriage on the most peculiar adventure of her life.