PROLOGUE
Navy Lt. Tommie Massie, angered by rumors of his wife’s slights to his honor, requires her (Thalia) to sign a behavior contract.
ACT I
Thalia, a psychologically unstable East Coast socialite, tells Tommie that she has been raped by five local (Hawaiian) boys. Against her wishes, Tommie contacts the police.
ACT II
Five local boys are arrested, identified by Thalia, then tried for the crime. Honolulu divides into Gossips (white Navy officers and their wives) and Locals (non-whites) who take opposite positions on the guilt of the boys. Newspapers primarily support and fuel the Gossips, creating a frenzy of interest in the trial. Trial ensues. Based upon conflicting testimony from Thalia and falsified statements by the Prosecutor, mistrial is declared.
ACT III
Thalia’s mother decides that her family’s honor must be reclaimed and informs Mainland newspapers of the case, stoking the fires of racism, escalating the issues, and creating panic in the white population of Honolulu. Tommie and Grace then plot to kidnap one of the accused, Joe Kahahawaii, to obtain his confession. Their plot ends with Joe being shot to death. Tommie, Grace, and two Navy men assist them in disposing of the body. Car chase ensues as police pursue them and arrest them. They are indicted for murder. There is a massive funeral in Honolulu for Joe.
ACT IV
Clarence Darrow’s final court case. Because he is broke, Darrow agrees to defend Tommie and Grace, even though he knows he is on the wrong side of history. Trial ensues. Darrow’s eloquent closing to the jury is the first live radio broadcast from Hawaii to the Mainland. Tommie and Grace are found guilty and sentenced to 10 years hard labor.
EPILOGUE
Grace and Tommie's sentences are commuted (probably with pressure from President Herbert Hoover) to one hour served in the garden at the Governor’s mansion. Joe speaks to his mother from the grave.