Bank clerk John Austin gives his motherless son, Jack, up for adoption to his wealthy employer, Grant Melford, believing it will be to the boy's advantage. However, Jack grows up without discipline, much to the concern of his birth father. Desperate for money, Grant steals from his bank, unaware that Jack is a witness. The banker dies in an accident soon after and the dutiful Jack accepts blame for his foster-father's crime. Following a prison term, Jack discovers the identity of his real father but is unable to find him. The young man later marries and achieves a good position with a large company. Jack is approached by real estate swindler George Harvey, who threatens to expose his criminal past unless he aids in the scheme. After Jack reunites with John Austin, he denounces George at a town meeting. Although the swindler attempts to ruin Jack's reputation, John recounts his son's act of courage, drawing cheers from the townspeople.—AFI