Virginia Blaine, a telephone operator, catches the attention of wealthy Robert Stafford. Virginia's sister Fanny and prospective brother-in-law Jimmy Gilley convince Virginia to marry Stafford so she (and they) will be well off. Although not in love with Stafford at first, Virginia gradually comes to fall for him. Then Stafford begins drinking, which causes arguments. One evening, Virginia goes the opera with Fanny and Jimmy. Stafford comes home in one of his drunken states, and Virginia tells him she hates him in that condition. He reminds her of the life he has provided for her, and that he has bought and paid for her. Virginia moves out and returns to her previous life. Stafford, who has given up drinking, is too proud to reconcile with her. Then Gilley tells Stafford that Virginia wants to see him. When Stafford goes to see her, she thinks he has come of his own accord, and confesses her love for him.
—scsu1975