Plot

Marian Forrest, society reporter on the "Tribune," is sent to get particulars of the dance and reception held at the residence of Mrs. John B. Courtney. She calls while the dance is in progress and is given an interview by Jack Courtney, the son. The next morning Jack reads Marian's account of the dance in the paper and, recalling her attractiveness, writes a note asking her to go motoring. She gladly accepts and has to refuse an invitation to dine with him owing to an evening assignment. Next day Jack phones and promises her a "big story" providing she will dine with him that night. Her professional instinct is aroused and she accepts the invitation, but refuses to listen to his "big story," telling him that the man she marries must not be of the idle rich, but must "do something." In the morning papers Jack reads of the coming champion automobile speed race and decides to enter it. He purchases a new racing car. Jack, realizing that Dare will be his chief opponent, calls on him, telling him he is going to beat him and asking that he inspect his new car. While inspecting Jack's car, Dare decides that he must use foul play to win. He hires a man of questionable character, gives him a note to the manufacturers of Jack's car, requesting their permission for his mechanic to inspect the car, and signs the letter with Courtney's name. Permission is granted; the fake mechanic loosens the gasoline feed pipe and gets away. On the day of the race Marian goes to the telegraph office receiving reports of the progress of the race. Everything goes well with Jack until the work of the crook takes effect. Jack's car slows down and catches fire and he escapes just before the machine goes up in flames. Learning of the accident as it comes over the wire, Marian rushes to Jack's track quarters. Through the watchfulness of a little colored boy, Dare is proven guilty of his unscrupulous tactics and the honor of winning the race is taken from him. Marian tells Jack that even though he did not win the race, his attempt to "do something" has won her love, and Jack's disappointment at losing the trophy is more than recompensed by his great joy in winning Marian.—Moving Picture World synopsis