Hardy ranch owner Delia Jamieson hires John Trent as her foreman after he befriends her niece Martha. Jeff Carey, jealous of Trent's friendship with Martha, plants some stolen gold in his room and reveals this act to Delia, who visits Trent privately. Trent tries to tell Delia of his love for Martha, but she misunderstands him, thinking he is in love with her. When Delia does understand, however, she sends Martha away and orders the boys to whip Trent. She repents in time, sacrificing herself for her niece's happiness.