Social reformer and head of the Purity League, James King Cotton finds it impossible to restrain his daughter Annabel from parading around in scanty bathing suits. When Annabel laughs at Willy St. John's overtures to her because of his lack of athletic prowess, Willy hires boxer Captain Buck Nelson to teach him self-defense. Both men are invited to accompany the Cottons on a yachting trip during which Nelson physically attacks Annabel. After Nelson chases her up the ship's rigging, forcing her to perform a high dive into the sea, and struggles with her underwater, Willy finally intercedes, fighting off both Nelson as well as the crew to rescue his love. Thus satisfied with Willy's physical abilities, Annabel awards him her love.—AFI