James Williams, a young city purchasing agent, receives a letter from Flannery, the city political boss, advising that the Acme Paving Material Company must get the city's winter contract. A large bribe is offered Williams to put this deal through. In a fury of resentment, Williams orders the bearer of the letter, Mullin, a corrupt politician, from the office. Mullin goes, but unknowingly leaves the letter in Williams' possession. A few days later Williams quarrels with his wife about her extravagance in dress, and she unthinkingly demands that he get money as other men do and support her properly. In a blind rage, Williams calls Flannery on the 'phone and agrees to accept his proposition. A week later Williams gives a reception at his home. During the course of the evening Frank Holt, president of the Acme Paving Material Company, attempts to embrace Mrs. Williams while under the influence of liquor. Williams comes upon the scene, furiously confronts Holt and his henchmen, including Flannery, Mullin, and Wharton, produces the incriminating bribe letter and threatens to send them all to prison. Next morning Mrs. Williams receives a letter from Mrs. Holt telling of her great suffering and to plead with Williams not to prosecute her husband. Thoroughly repentant, Mrs. Williams does so, Williams tears up the letter, and happiness reigns once more in the house of pride.