The happy marriage of John Trott and Tilly Whaley is ended by Tilly's father when he learns of the notorious reputation of John's "mother." Because John assumes that Tilly, who was taken home by Mr. Whaley, left of her own accord, he leaves the small North Carolina town to work in the city. John becomes successful and wealthy, while Mr. Whaley prevails upon Tilly, who believes that John died in a train wreck, to marry Joel Eperson. While visiting Ridgeville John finds that Tilly's thoughts are still of him, but he decides to depart gracefully. Joel also perceives what his wife really wants, and he commits suicide. John and Tilly are reunited with everyone's blessings and with the new knowledge that Liz Trott is not related to John in any way.