Godfrey Morgan of San Francisco, California will only consent to marry after he is allowed to cruise around the world. His uncle, William Holderkup, gives in to this demand, and he sends Godfrey off with his instructor in deportment, Professor Tartlett. Together they become the only survivors of a "shipwreck." Thus begins the School for Crusoes.

Also published as "Godfrey Morgan: A Californian Mystery.