The film tells the story of young Sally, whose mother was disowned by her strict father, Judge Foster, for marrying a circus performer. After her mother's death, Sally is raised by Professor Eustace McGargle, a good-natured juggler and con man. McGargle trains Sally as a dancer, and years later they join a carnival that brings them to the Judge's hometown of Green Meadow, Connecticut. Unaware of her true heritage, Sally falls in love with Peyton Lennox, the son of the Judge's friend. The Judge, disapproving of Sally's "show girl" background, has her and McGargle arrested. In the ensuing courtroom drama, McGargle escapes and returns with proof of Sally's parentage, leading to a happy ending where Sally is reunited with her grandparents and marries Peyton.