Gambling Ship

Ace Corbin is acquitted of murder, having been framed by Pete Manning. With his freedom secured, he decides to reform and start a new life in California. The courtroom victory marks the first major turning point of his story.

On the journey west, Ace meets Eleanor La Velle, a gambler's girlfriend. They fall for each other while concealing their true identities from prying eyes. The budding romance sets the stage for a tension-filled alliance.

In California, Eleanor learns that Joe Burke, owner of the Casino Del Mar steamer, is in debt of $9,000 due to Manning's thugs wrecking his business. She confronts the risk to their cover and to her loyalty. The situation intensifies as their complicating secrets intertwine.

Joe and Blooey propose turning the casino over to Ace so he can rebuild the business and pursue Manning. Eleanor is torn between her loyalty to Joe and her feelings for Ace. Ace initially resists, wary of becoming entangled.

Manning's men threaten Ace, forcing him to reconsider his stance. He sees that avoiding involvement would be impossible if his safety and prospects are at stake. The threat changes his outlook on the business and on vengeance.

Ace agrees to run the Casino Del Mar steamship, using water taxis to bring Manning's patrons to his ship. He leverages control to challenge Manning and protect his own interests. The steamship becomes the battleground where loyalties are tested.

During the first evening on board, Ace encounters Eleanor and she recognizes his true identity. She learns that he is not merely an ex-gangster but the man she loves. Eleanor remains on the ship, torn between passion and truth.

A fire erupts on the steamship after Manning's men sabotage the vessel. The blaze tests everyone's resolve as they fight to save themselves and others. After the fire is extinguished, Ace and Eleanor stay aboard together through the night.

In the morning, the district attorney interrogates both Ace and Eleanor and exposes their hidden identities and relationships. Joe is present and learns of Ace and Eleanor's bond. The truth now binds all three in a dangerous web.

Back aboard the ship amid a fierce storm, Joe and Ace accuse Eleanor of being a two-timer. The tempest mirrors the volatility of their relationships. Trust is frayed as the storm rages.

Manning and his men sneak aboard and kill Joe, sealing his fate. Blooey releases the anchor, and the crashing waves threaten to overturn them. Ace, Blooey, and Eleanor scramble to safety with life preservers.

The trio survives the perilous escape from the wreckage. In the aftermath, Ace and Eleanor marry, choosing a life beyond crime and danger. The story closes with their fragile, hard-won union.