In Paris, France, famous artist Robert Stevens falls in love with Mrs. Marion Trevor and follows her to the U.S., where they plan to marry. Marion's brother, Dick Van Vleck, becomes infatuated with Lottie, who is modeling for Robert. However, Dick returns to college and abandons Lottie, who then drowns herself in the ocean. Robert is accused of betraying the girl, prompting Marion to break their engagement. In addition, he is falsely accused of theft, resulting in a two-year prison term. The artist joins several inmates in a prison break and saves the life of the state governor before escaping. Afterward, Robert lands on an island, where he prevents a shipwreck and nurses an ailing lighthouse keeper back to health. Although he receives a pardon, the despondent artist becomes a drunkard. One day, Marion and the governor enter a barroom to find Robert painting her portrait on the floor. The lovers are reconciled and find happiness together.—AFI