Dolores, daughter of a wealthy rancher, leaves the convent to marry Don Miguel, a neighbor. Arriving home she meets Square Jack, the sheriff, and is deeply impressed with him. Anticipating his marriage with Dolores, Miguel casts aside Nita, whom he has ruined. Nita, forsaken and shunned, is found by Juan, Dolores' brother, and taken to his home. Before Nita dies she confesses to Dolores that Miguel is the cause of her ruin. When Miguel calls to court Dolores, she accuses him and drives him from the house with a horsewhip. Juan aids his sister. Miguel swears vengeance against Juan, and that night he sneaks to a window and shoots him. In the meantime an intense love has grown up between Dolores and Square Jack. Jack instigates a hunt for Miguel, but he cannot be found. Tormented by his passion for Dolores, he visits the garden under Dolores' window and finds Square Jack there making love to Dolores. He attempts to enter. His progress is halted by a servant. He kills the servant, but in escaping leaves his handkerchief behind. The following morning Jack finds the body of the servant and the evidence of Miguel's guilt. He gathers his retainers and goes in search of the murderer. Miguel eludes his pursuers and decides that while his enemies are seeking him he will carry Dolores away. Dolores and her maid are alone when Miguel and his henchmen ride up to the house. In the meantime a premonition of danger induces Jack and his men to return to Dolores. There is a fierce battle between the forces of Miguel and Jack's men. Jack is victorious and Miguel is held a prisoner to answer for his crimes.