Dixon Grant, a reporter, is instructed to run down a band of high financiers suspected by the editor of being involved in a number of illegitimate deals. Masterman, the head of the crooked syndicate, effects an alliance with two others in putting over a traction deal. The signed agreement is blown out of the window and - falls into the hands of Grant. This fact is soon discovered by Masterman who offers to bribe the reporter and his sweetheart into surrendering the papers. They are tricked by Bray - and tortured until Grant discloses the hiding place of the papers. Masterman sets out to locate the papers. Meanwhile, Grant and his sweetheart escape and manage to secure the necessary evidence to publish the traction scandal. Masterman - has sought refuge in his house boat, which is caught in the strong current and its destruction follows.