Clyde Penfield, freshman, is made an object of ridicule by Walter Holmes, campus leader. Humiliated by Holmes in the presence of Hazel, his sweetheart, the freshman attacks Holmes, but is worsted. Believing Clyde a coward, Hazel contemptuously breaks their engagement. Holmes resolves to give the freshman a thorough hazing. Clyde is summoned before a council of masked students. Unnerved, Penfield breaks down when challenged to a revolver duel and pleads for mercy. Filled with contempt, the leader of the masked students brands the word "Coward" on the back of Clyde's left hand. This act of wanton cruelty results in Holmes' dismissal from college, but Clyde swears to be further avenged. Years later, Clyde, president of an investment company, is known as "The Man With the Glove," because his left hand is always covered. Learning that his old foe, Holmes, is pressed for money, Clyde loans him $5,000, receiving a mortgage on the man's home. Holmes is ignorant of Clyde's identity. Unable to pay the debt, Holmes is driven into bankruptcy, after Clyde reveals his identity. The man is hounded by his Nemesis. Distracted by poverty and the illness of his wife and child, Holmes attempts to kill the man who has caused his misery. His effort goes for naught and Clyde has him arrested. Holmes pleads to be allowed to see his wife and child before being taken away. Clyde consents and with an officer, accompanies the man home. There he is astounded to find that Hazel is Holmes' wife. Touched by their misery, Clyde brings about Holmes' release and paves his way towards his former prosperity. That night, in the privacy of his library, Clyde removes the glove from his left hand and serenely gazes upon the brand to which his noble conduct has given the lie.