Shamus O'Brien was a patriot and in fighting for his country places himself in the position of a rebel with a price on his head. He is hiding in the hills, but anxious to attend a dance, at which his friends and sweetheart will be present, sends word that he will be there. Arrangements are made for the dance, and Shamus surprises the guests by appearing in a surprising manner. Michael O'Farrell, who has not met with success in his suit for the hand of Aileen Brennan, the sweetheart of Shamus, learns of his whereabouts and notifies the Redcoats. They reach the barn, where the dance is taking place, too late to capture the patriot, who escapes to the loft, only to return as the girl of his heart is being insulted by Captain McDonald. O'Brien floors the officer and makes a thrilling escape, only to be again given up by O'Farrell, when he is visiting his mother. He is then taken to prison and stands trial. He is convicted and the day of the execution set. As this draws near, his mother makes a plea to the parish priest for help which is readily given and through a ruse Shamas is saved, and the picture closes as the mother, son and sweetheart sail for America.