Nina secures a position with a theatrical company through Paul's influence. The two fall in love and become engaged. Paul is stricken with an illness which necessitates expensive treatment. Nina learns that $1,000 is offered to the person who will submit to an experimental operation which may mean permanent disfigurement. To save Paul's life, his sweetheart takes up the offer. Brent, the surgeon who performs the operation, falls in love with Nina. To part the lovers, he informs Paul, who later calls to inquire about Nina, that she has lost her beauty forever. Brent also intercepts Paul's letters, causing the girl to believe that he no longer loves her. When Nina recovers, she finds that her beauty is unmarred. Brent asks her to be his wife. Impelled by gratitude, Nina marries him. Later, the doctor resigns from the hospital staff and engrosses himself in experimental work. He utterly neglects Nina. Brent's conduct finally becomes such that his wife leaves him and returns to the stage. The actor who portrays the leading role in Nina's company is injured. Meldon, the manager, sends for Paul to take the injured man's place. The former sweethearts are thunderstruck when they face each other once more. In the explanations that follow, Nina learns of her husband's treachery. Brent's mind becomes unbalanced as the result of overwork. He cunningly plans to send for Nina and kill her when she returns. The girl falls into his trap and comes in answer to his letter. Realizing she has a madman to deal with, Nina frantically runs down the flight of stairs in her attempt to escape. Brent, following, trips and hurtles over the banisters to the floor below. When Nina fearfully places her hand over his heart, she finds that her husband is dead.