Dr. Kirchner’s experimental generator snaps an electrical cable while the S.S. Bulldog lowers it into the ocean and Spider-Man, insulating the cable, accidentally knocks crewman Morrie Bench overboard, where he is bombarded by a combination of generator energies and volcanic gases. Spider-Man saves Morrie and returns home for a date with Deb Whitman. Morrie discovers he is now composed of water, and enters the sewer system seeking revenge on Spider-Man. Peter and Deb visit the Daily Bugle, where they learn of Bench’s vendetta. Spider- Man finds Hydro-Man at millionaire Easton Kibosh’s offi ce. After a brief battle, Hydro-Man escapes. Jameson publishes Spidey’s challenge to meet Hydro-Man atop the Katen building. At noon on a scorcher day, Spider-Man runs Bench through newspapers and laundry, which soak up some of his body mass. Spidey’s follow-up punch scatters Hydro-Man into a puddle that the sun soon evaporates.