 A down-on-his-luck newsman, Phillip Werris, checks into a flea-bag hotel with his wife Jan, where he finds a manual on how to prospect for gold. That night while sleepwalking, Phillip types a short story that features the author of the manual and his brother. Against his wishes, Jan submits the story to be published. After publication, the story takes on an unnatural air, leading to an amazing climax.