Mr. Burton, a prominent citizen, blessed with five young motherless daughters, is appointed Consul to China. On his departure they present him with a photograph of themselves in a group. He treasures the picture as his dearest possession. After five year's absence in the Far East, he meets a fascinating widow. He tells her of his charming little girls at home, forgetting that five years' absence has made some difference in their ages and that they are fast approaching womanhood. She immediately becomes interested. Mr. Burton marries the widow and at the end of his term of office, six years, the newly married couple return to America, anxious to meet their little ones at home. The girls are shocked and antagonistic when, they hear that they are to have a step-mother, and determine to show her that they are beyond her espionage and will brook no foreign interference. Mr. and Mrs. Burton purchase all sorts of childish toys for them as souvenirs from abroad, hoping they will amuse them in their play. Arriving at home, they are surprised to be greeted by five grown-up young ladies, who have purposely equipped themselves in the latest styles of dress suitable for young ladies. Mrs. Burton asserts her authority by telling them to dress as becomes young girls, after which she orders them back to their governess. They obey and make things lively, making a din and a racket with the toys and playing all sorts of pranks. After thinking the matter over, Mrs. Burton decides upon another course of action. She and her husband are invited to a dance and reception. She invites her step-daughters to go with her. This greatly delights the girls. At the reception, she introduces them to all the young fellows and makes herself "perfectly lovely," Inviting the young men to call at their home to see their daughters. This sort of kindness wins the girls completely and it is not long before their new mamma is their dearest friend and companion.