Thousands of persons would die in the present if it were not for the memories of the past. Old Mrs. Merkle has one cherished reminder of bygone days, her wedding gown. It is filled with associations of the most sacred and hallowed character. This heirloom is coveted by a wealthy woman, who recognizes the rarely of its fabric and the richness of its lace, and decides that it would be a most unique and unusual dress for her daughter's approaching wedding. The gentle old soul will not part with it until, to avoid eviction from her modest little home, she is obliged to sacrifice it. Unfortunately, she loses the money realized, and after all is driven from home and compelled to wend her way to the poor-house. She is met by her next-door neighbor's children, to whom she has always been kind, and they induce her to go to their home, where she is welcomed by her parents, who treat her as if she were their own. The strain of her recent experiences has undermined the old lady's health and she is taken very sick. During her delirium she cries for the old wedding gown. The two children take their savings and persuade the purchaser of the gown to get them buy it back. While "Granny" is sleeping, her place the cherished garment on the foot of the bed. Awakening from her slumbers she espies it and fondly grasping it, she presses it to her heart. While the church bells ring out the wedding chimes of the girl who intended to wear the dress, Mrs. Merkle passes into the Great Beyond, clad in the marriage garment, essential to the realms of eternal peace and happiness.