A scheme is hatched by Don Ameche ("Dawson") and Lynn Bari ("Claire") with the goal of establishing an institution that would instruct those easily fooled on how to succeed. Their initial target becomes "Tad" (Henry Fonda), who participates in their contest for a chance to win $50 and tuition. While he isn't particularly interested in the education itself, his two new associates begin attempting to influence him to r…