The Truth About Youth

A notorious gold-digger who sings and dances at a nightclub under the name The Firefly. She uses charm and cunning to secure financial security, entering a hasty marriage with Dane before discarding him when wealth is revealed. Her actions drive the central conflict and expose the fragility of social façades.

Dane is Carewe's ward, a young man whose passion and impulsiveness pull him into a rushed marriage with Kara. He is naive about money and status, and his abandonment by Kara at the altar sets off the emotional unraveling that motivates the others. He returns home, confesses his actions, and seeks reconciliation with Phyllis.

Phyllis is Carewe's ward who loves him, torn by the prospect of losing him to the manipulative Kara. She witnesses the public displays of Carewe's affection for Kara and is torn between loyalty and genuine love. By the end, she acknowledges her love for Carewe and supports a truthful resolution.

A wealthy guardian who has raised Dane and orchestrates his social future, hoping for an advantageous marriage to Phyllis. He is pragmatic, protective, and willing to bend the truth to maintain appearances. His revelation of love for Phyllis becomes central to the final confession and happy ending.