John Montague Smith, a smalltown bank cashier forced to leave town when he is accused of bad business practices, catches a freight for the West. He rescues Jerry, a tramp, and both apply for work on a railroad construction gang but are refused employment by the foreman, Rand Barlow. John rescues Corona Baldwin from a runaway handcar, and as a result her father gives both men jobs. When John discovers that Barlow and Kinsey are delaying construction work to cause Colonel Baldwin to lose his franchise, he is promoted to foreman; and in spite of obstacles he completes the road. Barlow opens a drawbridge over which John is about to drive the first train, but he is foiled by Jerry. John rescues Kinsey and emerges from the battle victorious with Corona in his arms.