In his effort to ensnare Paula, an American girl studying music in Paris, Darcelle intercepts her mail and steals the money sent her from America. When financial reverses beggar the Farrells, they send Paula her passage money and urge her to return home. This money is stolen by Darcelle. Desperate, and anxious to aid her mother and sister, the girl falls a victim to the scoundrel's wiles. Mrs. Farrell dies, believing that her daughter has achieved success abroad. Marjorie, Paula's sister, unexpectedly comes to Paris to live with her. Paula endeavors to hide her secret, but it is revealed when Austin, a young American who loves her, learns of the girl's affair with Darcelle. Late that night, half-crazed as the result of the denouement, Paula visits a cafe and witnesses a performance of the "Dance of the Apaches." The fate which is meted out to the male Apache deeply impresses the girl. During her absence, Darcelle, whose eyes have turned towards Marjorie, enters Paula's apartment.