Iris Champneys, forced into a marriage of convenience with the Earl of Lemister, attempts to recover some compromising letters for her sister Muriel, who has been seduced by a social parasite. Iris is thus caught by Lemister in a delicate situation, and he demands a divorce. Clement Gaunt, formerly employed by Lemister and in love with Iris, has become a ranch foreman in South Africa. He becomes entangled with Hannah, the rancher's wife, who shoots her husband, then places the blame on Clem when he refuses to run away with her. Seven years later, Gaunt--trying to escape the police--meets Iris, who is operating a tavern on the African caravan road. Iris, learning of his predicament, rides to Hannah Schriemann, telling her that Clem has been executed for her crime. When the police bring Clem to the house, Hannah--frightened by his "ghost"--confesses, and Iris and Clem find a way to happiness.