In 1905, the Lantinis and their children, Lorenzo and Francesca, emigrate to New York. Though poor, the family's situation begins to improve when Mr. Manton, a wealthy contractor, offers to provide Lorenzo with the opportunity for advancement, in gratitude for his having saved his daughter Dorothy in an accident. Fifteen years later, the Lantinis have advanced: Lorenzo is a successful architect, in love with Dorothy. At the Manton's party, Lorenzo and Francesca meet Richard Sewall, a theatrical magnate, for whom Lorenzo has designed a building. When Francesca meets with Sewall regarding some costumes, he seduces her. Lorenzo learns what has happened and goes to Sewall's office, only to find him dead, just as the police arrive. He is convicted of the crime, but his mother never doubts his innocence and seeks to prove it. By coincidence, she meets Sewall's wife, who confesses that she murdered Sewall because of his cruelty. Lorenzo is free, and the family reunited.