Joe Stanton, a straggling artist, has been able by careful management to keep his younger brother, Ted in college. Ted is unappreciative and becomes so extravagant that Joe is sorely pressed for funds. One morning Joe reads the announcement of the Century Art Society that $10,000 in prizes will be given for the best studies of “The American Girl.” He decides to compete, but is unable to secure a suitable model. Nell Winston, employed in a department store, resents the advances of an overbearing floorwalker and is discharged. As she sits in the park she attracts the attention of Joe, who has been strolling aimlessly and gloomily, thinking of the futility of entering the contest. He is struck by the girl s beauty and, introducing himself, induces her to act as his model. Nell agrees and visits the studio. As the days pass the old story repeats itself and the artist falls deeply in love with the girl. Holidays arrive and Ted dashes into the studio to be confronted by a beautiful stranger. He makes known his identity and learns that Nell is waiting for Joe. Ted prevails upon her to take a stroll and during the walk he discovers that he has found “the one girl.” The days pass and the painting is completed. Joe is summoned before the art committee and awarded the first prize. Hastening home with the glad news, his spirits fall when he learns that Nell has given her promise to Ted.