In this crowd-pleasing melodrama, Dora, the lovely but downtrodden heroine, is employed in the home of the socially prominent Hyacinths. Hector Hyacinth, the dashing hero, is engaged to be married to vain Andrea Morgan, but he falls deeply in love with humble Dora. As Andrea schemes to bring disgrace on Dora, Lorin Chillingsworth – a heartless scoundrel steeped in villainy – plots to acquire her fortune for himself. But Chillingsworth's wicked plans are thwarted as he falls victim to Dora's charms and Hector's heroism. Of course, all works out in the end; just as Dora's future looks bleakest, she discovers that she is an heiress. Hector proposes marriage, Dora gladly accepts, and the villains are thwarted, ensuring a happy ending.