James Sheridan becomes wealthy and a power in a middle west city, where his entire life is absorbed in the turmoil of his own creation. The only thing he lacks is social standing, and this he strives to gain by methods he has successfully employed in driving a business deal.

Marian Delmar, whose father has died without an estate, believes he has left her a settlement. The film follows Marian's journey as she navigates this belief and its potential consequences.

Beth Coventry, society favorite and ward of a wealthy aunt, is beloved by three men: rich broker Philip Murdock; Marquis de Tourville, a polished, brilliant social lion; and poor but promising young banker John Langton.