It is a source of great grief to Alkanah Dyzer that his son Rupert has joined the Rebel Army. He drives him from the house, telling him that he never wishes to see him again. Rupert's brothers are also furious with him and will likewise have nothing to do with him. George Dyzer, who has joined the Northern Army, loses his arm in a battle and is taken prisoner by the Rebels. In the hospital he makes the acquaintance of the "stranger in gray," a man greatly beloved by the soldiers. The stranger takes him to his brother and by his strange influence causes the hate between the two men to vanish. The stranger in gray arrives at Alkanah Dyzer's house just as he has heard the news of the loss of his whole fortune. He is cordially welcomed and offered the best hospitality. While in the house the stranger prevents a growing rift between John Dyzer and his wife Emily, who is almost on the point of elopement with Harry Faulkner, a visitor to the house. By reminding them of their dead child and their duty to their remaining little one Lillie, he causes husband and wife to realize their real love for each other. The stranger calls Mr. Dyzer and his family into the parlor, where he bids him to take down his father's portrait, reputed to be very valuable. Taking off the back, the stranger shows them that between the painting and the backing had been hidden a fortune in bills, put there by his father. This treasure is enough to re-establish Dyzer's fortunes. To complete their happiness the stranger stays for the birthday party that is being given that evening. Leaving the house for a few moments he returns, bringing with him the two soldier boys, George and Rupert, whom he presents to their father and mother. The work of the stranger being completed, he bids all farewell and passes out into the night. As he blesses them on his departure, they are brought to think of the Carpenter of Nazareth and of the loving kindness that watches over us all.