A Russian woman (Greta Garbo), who is an ex-soldier and now works for the government, is sent to Paris to oversee the sale of some jewels. The jewels were taken by the Russian state from a member of the old aristocracy (Ina Claire) who is now living in Paris and who wants them back. Whilst is Paris her communist ideals are challenged by Paris and a man who falls in love with her (Melvyn Douglas). Greta Garbo gives a great performance as a hard line communist who finds love and decadence. She is well supported by Ina Claire.