Appius is a Roman who spends most his time in the country, but comes to Rome to make preparations for his son's wedding. Appius purchases a slave, Stichus, from Hostius. Stichus is a well-trained house slave, and Appius intends to give Stichus as a gift to his new daughter-in-law to manage her new household. Appius paid 5000 sesterces for Stichus.

Appius asked Faustus if he would make wine for Appius, using the grapes from Appius' vineyard. Faustus agreed provided Appius would pay 1000 sesterces, which Appius accepted and paid. Faustus made the wine, but before delivering it to Appius, was approached by Gaius, who offered Faustus 1500 sesterces in exchange for the wine. Faustus took advantage of the better offer and delivered the wine to Gaius, receiving 1500 sesterces in exchange.

Appius is shocked by Faustus' behaviour, and outraged when Gaius approaches Appius, offering to sell the wine to Appius for 2000 sesterces. While Appius is extremely reluctant, his son's wedding is imminent and he sees little choice but to buy the wine. Appius agrees to buy the wine at that price, and to try and make sure Gaius realises how important this is, he asks Gaius "do you promise to give the wine to my son for his wedding reception next week". Gaius replies "I promise". Appius then pays the 2000 sesterces.

Two nights before the wedding, Stichus runs away. Appius goes to look for Stichus, and discovers him in the market, in the company of Postumus. Appius confronts Posthumus, but Posthumus explains that he has just bought Stichus from Hostius.

On the day of the wedding, Gaius fails to deliver the wine as he promised and Appius is humiliated as a result.

Advise Appius.