The poor little housemaid, with her tired bands incessantly toiling, despairs of ever experiencing a kindness, for although she reproves herself for complaining, having what she deems a good job, still her life is that of one driven like a beast of burden. Even the spoiled child of the household orders her about and treats her with absolute disdain. The child wears a bright ribbon sash, which, to the poor eyes of the slavey is overwhelmingly beautiful; so much so that she is tempted to steal it. She has it in her possession but a few minutes, when she reproaches herself and starts to return it. But, meanwhile, her act has been discovered and she is denounced as a thief. This is done in the presence of her sweetheart, the stable boy, who at first turns from her, but finally realizing the act was one of impulsiveness, forgives her and takes her to his heart.