The Professor imparts wisdom from the ages but does not earn a living wage. His wealthy and powerful neighbors, the Olsens, have plenty of money and food while the Griggs barely scrape by. Both Peter Olsen and Reverend Gates are captivated by the beauty of young Amelia Griggs. When Phil West, a rich son, falls for her and befriends the impoverished Reverend Gates, he realizes the difference in their lives and tries to make a change.