When governess Thelma Miller falls in love with her employer's brother, Norris Townsend, they have a brief affair. Soon after, Thelma discovers that she is pregnant and demands that Norris marry her so that their child can have a name. Norris' wealthy family objects to the marriage on the grounds of social equality, but Thelma forces the union at gunpoint. After the ceremony, Thelma leaves her husband and seeks employment in a country town. Years pass as Norris searches for his wife and son.