Dred Barton is a powerful railroad tycoon who shelters Foster after Foster's disgrace and downfall. Despite an implied bitter history between them, Dred grants Foster a chance at a new life. As part of this arrangement, Dred leverages Foster's background in managing women for political influence, assigning him the task of training high-class prostitutes to entertain Dred's wealthy business associates. Dred's position drives his utilitarian perspective; he exploits Foster's skills and the recruited women within a sordid network involving discipline and coercion to advance his own business interests.