Disgusted by the unsanitary conditions of the flat in which she lives, Patty Gordon, a pretty young artist, writes anonymously to John Richardson, asking him to investigate the conditions of his tenements. Plainly dressed, Richardson goes down to the tenements and rents an apartment for himself, so that he may see firsthand whether or not there is cause for complaint. He is accompanied by his dog, Dick, a valuable thoroughbred collie, who, seeing Patty's door open, enters and makes friends with her. Patty paints a picture of Dick, which she intends to enter in a coming competition. She ties a note to Dick's collar addressed to his master, asking his permission to exhibit the picture of his dog. Richardson sends back another note saying, "yes," and in gratitude Patty sends back to him, the dog again acting as messenger, a sketch of the animal. Richardson at once goes to call on her with his thanks and a strong friendship grows up between them. One day when Richardson is out for a walk with Dick, a couple of thieves see the dog, which they steal while his master is in a cigar store, and afterwards sell to a dog fancier. Patty is brokenhearted when she hears of Dick's loss. A day or two later Patty receives a check for $500, having won the prize for her painting. Going to the bank to cash it, she passes an animal store and sees Dick in there for sale. She gives her check for the dog and joyfully takes him back to his master, who takes this opportunity to tell her of his love for her. They are soon married.