Ida Allen, an orphan, runs away from the home because of cruel treatment and is rescued by John Hardy, a gruff but kindly old farmer. The girl wins Hardy's affection by her care for him, and he adopts her, although he has a daughter about Ida's age, who has just returned from boarding school. Hardy's heart is set on marrying Eleanor to Hugh Conway, a young farmer, whose farm joins his, but she rebels, having fallen under the fascination of Paul Denny, a worthless chap, who has floated into the vicinity. Hugh is attracted to Ida, but accedes to the old man's plans. Eleanor is persuaded to elope with Paul, and shares her secret with Ida, who is unable to dissuade her. Eleanor deceives her father to think she is returning to school. The inevitable happens. Eleanor is deserted and sends for Ida, who still keeps her secret, and cares for Eleanor and her child until Eleanor dies.
