John Graeme is a poor fiction writer. He loves Margaret Brandt, a woman who stands to earn a substantial fortune. Lady Elspeth Gordon is friends with both. With a little bit of manipulation, she begins to help John Graeme and Margaret Brandt spend time together. Unfortunately, when Lady Elspeth is called away due to her niece's illness, John Graeme is left to fend for himself. John must contend with more suitable pursuers, men who stand a chance of matching Margaret Brandt's fortune, as well as Jeremiah Pixley, Margaret Brandt's guardian. Will he be able to make the fortune Jeremiah Pixley finds is acceptable to marry Margaret? Or will love win out over all other obstacles?