David Knox Endicott, a strictly bred New Englander, demonstrates great songwriting ability while attending college. At the urging of his friend, Jonathan Hall, David accompanies musical-comedy star Dorothy Deal in her performance of his song "Holding Hands with Helen." During a college party, Dorothy lures the drunken David into her room. The next morning, however, David's infatuation turns to disgust, and the resentful Dorothy leaves him a note claiming he has ruined her life. That same day, Dorothy marries tycoon Arthur Haynes, while the guilt-stricken David searches in vain for her to propose marriage. David later meets Arthur's daughter, singer Helen Haynes, who agrees to tour with the songwriter after her father loses his fortune. Dorothy eventually leaves Arthur, then discovers that David and Helen have married. She threatens to blackmail David, but Helen becomes aware of Dorothy's threats and forgives him.—AFI