Fred’s prison sentence expires and he returns to his wife and child, determined to lead a new life. He finds it is no easy matter for an ex-convict to secure employment, but through the kind offices of Mrs. Edmond, who has befriended the wife in her time of need, he obtains a position in Mc. Edmond’s office. Fred’s employer is quick to appreciate his employee’s worth and soon promotes him to a position of trust. One afternoon Fred’s wife arranges to meet him and he places his watch on his desk that he may leave promptly. To his watch chain is attached the key to the cash box. When Fred is called from the office to secure change for a large bill, Arthur, an unscrupulous clerk, takes the key and empties the cash box. Mr. Edmond, passing along the street, sees Fred in conversation with a desperate character and does not understand that the young man is endeavoring to reform an old companion. “Once a thief, always a thief!” declares Arthur when the robbery is discovered. The office boy, having faith in Fred, rushes out to meet him and tells him of the incident. Fred, realizing that he will have difficulty in clearing himself, takes to flight. The old companion tells him not to return home, that that is the first place the officers will visit. The husband, however, concludes that he must inform his wife and he is apprehended. When he is conducted to prison and is about to despair his young friend, the office boy, succeeds in clearing his name and bringing about the conviction of Arthur.