Nicholas Van Alstyne is the richest man in New York, but he is very disappointed in the behavior of his son, Bertie, who stays out all night gambling and partying, and who seems to show no talent or interest in work.

In fact, Bertie is feigning this behavior because he believes it will help to impress the girl of his dreams, his adopted sister Agnes.

Bertie's sister, Rose, is married to an unsuccessful lawyer named Mark Turner, who is admired by Van Alstyne but in fact is a troublemaker.

Mark claims the letter is actually Bertie's, who goes along with the lie to protect his sister, breaking Agnes heart and ensuring Van Alstyne never wants to speak to his son again.

[2] Buster Keaton's performance in the film was singled out as having an unusual stillness for his character that gave him a distinctive presence on screen.