Out in the farm-lands near Portland, the Widow Walters lives with her daughter Ethel. As far as affections are concerned, those of the widow are confined to her daughter, until Squire Lang, a fat old widower, with his son Harry, moves onto the adjoining farm.
Esmeralda Foster, an attractive girl, is very much impressed with Duncan Miller, a crafty country swain, who makes love to Esmeralda because of her father's wealth.
The Rev. Frank Speakman has been to a rural congregation, and is entertained by the members. He is considered a fine catch matrimonially and the ladies set their caps for him.
Disregarding the sanctity of "Song Bird's" feelings, John Strong, a young surveyor in the pioneer forests of the west, makes love to the Indian maiden whenever he chances to meet her, until she longs and looks for his coming and going, and finds that he has made himself part of her life.
SILAS WILSON realizes that his business is being run to the ground, and that he cannot longer compete with the newer foundries unless he makes radical changes in his methods and employees.
Otto Beckert has taken to his cousin, Aase, who has promised her heart to Tage Henning. In the pursuit of her love, Otto tries to tear the two lovers apart – and he succeeds! A single misstep and Aase ends up in Otto’s grateful embrace.