Broncho Billy, a cowpuncher, is elected to the office of deputy. The sheriff is in love with Gertrude Scott and fears that his deputy is smitten with her. An outlaw has been terrorizing the town and the sheriff determines to capture him. He meets the outlaw in the woods, gives him money and promises him his release the following day if he will give himself up. The sheriff is proclaimed a hero. That night the outlaw escapes and the deputy captures him. The bandit squeals; the sheriff is ousted and Broncho Billy not only wins the office but the love of the pretty Gertrude.