John Blackstone, the successful financier, recognizes no will but his own. The committees of the various companies he controls are directors in name only, as Blackstone's voice is a dominant force. His household consists only of himself, his son, whom he treats as a child, and a host of frightened servants and a stenographer, who is mortally afraid of his testy temper and violent imperiousness. In one of his tantrums one day a serious mistake costs her her position, and although his son, touched by the elderly woman's tears, pleads for her, her dismissal is abrupt and certain. Blackstone telephones to the agency for another stenographer, and the lady in charge, knowing the difficulties that would confront the new applicant, decides that there is but one girl on her list who could cope with the situation, Portia Wood. When Portia first meets Blackstone, he looks upon her as another victim of his domination. He hurls the most rapid dictation at her in the first test of speed, and is surprised and annoyed to find that she takes it easily and instantaneously. In the days that follow comes a struggle of wills. Gradually Blackstone recognizes Portia's abilities. In the meantime, Blackstone Jr. has fallen in love with her and one day proposes marriage. On being refused be becomes angry and insinuates that she has designs upon his father. This is the cause of a violent quarrel. During it Blackstone Sr. enters. His son leaves in a rage, leaving Blackstone Sr. and Portia to speak their minds. Suddenly they discover they love each other and end their opposition in an embrace.