Dolly, a smalltown girl with theatrical ambitions, arrives in New York and applies for a stenographic position at the theatrical agency of Sam Davis. She mistakes actor Johnny Storm for Davis; and struck by her freshness and innocence, Johnny decides to sign Dolly for his act. Through Johnny's efforts the act is a success, but Dolly takes all the credit herself and is persuaded by another actor to join his act; her conceit is soon exposed, and meanwhile, Johnny signs Dixie Mason. Later, as a chorus girl, Dolly is booked into a theater with Johnny. During the performance--a knife-throwing act--the child of Miss Weaver and Mr. Weston dies as the result of a fall, and Dolly insists upon taking the mother's place in the act. Johnny, terrified, but filled with love and pride, rushes to her as the curtain falls and promises never to leave her.