At a dance on his parents' plantation in the early nineteenth century, Harry Rutter wins a duel with Langdon Willetts, but loses his fiancée, Kate Seymour, who disapproves of fighting. Harry also is thrown out of the house by his father for violating every rule of Southern hospitality. He then stays at Kennedy Square, the home of his older friend and confidant, St. George Temple, who risks financial ruin in order to pay off Harry's debts. Tired of accepting charity, Harry leaves for South America, after which the bank forecloses on St. George's home. A few years later, Harry, having made a fortune, returns, and buys back Kennedy Square for St. George. Then, Harry and Kate reconcile, and begin making plans for their marriage.