
Eliza Shaw's husband, Frank Ford, obsessed with public image, spends extravagantly but berates Eliza for small purchases. Due to his double standards, Eliza seeks divorce. Frank's old classmate, Stella Sutton, deceives Frank and his son, pushing Frank to agree. After marrying Stella, Frank causes her miscarriage; she attempts suicide. Her father disfigures Frank with acid. Frank is abandoned, in debt, and his son suffers. Eliza focuses on her career, achieving independence.