The Stolen Rembrandt

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Sterling, an artist, receives permission to make a copy of a Rembrandt owned by McKay. While at work on the painting, Sterling falls in love with Rose, McKay's daughter. Mrs. McKay is anxious to have her daughter marry Sherwood, a society man. Although Rose detests the man, her mother compels her to become engaged to him. She breaks the news to Sterling, but confesses that she loves only him. The artist seizes her in his arms. Sherwood witnesses the incident and upbraids his fiancée. In anger, Rose breaks their engagement. The fortune hunter determines to secure revenge. Sterling has finished his painting. Sherwood finds it standing underneath the original, wrapped up and ready to be taken away. Awaiting the opportunity, he hangs the copy on the wall while the original is placed in Sterling's wrappings. Later, the artist takes the original home, unaware of the dastardly trick. McKay discovers the exchange the following day, and, accompanied by a detective, hastens to Sterling's studio. During the night, however, Sherwood has entered the place and has stolen the precious masterpiece. Sterling is searching for the painting when McKay and the detective arrive. Despite his protests, the artist is placed under arrest. Sherwood sells the painting to St. Clair, an unscrupulous art dealer. The two plan to steal more of McKay's paintings. By a clever trick, St. Claire is installed in the McKay household as watchman. Rose, however, discovers the state of affairs when she overhears the thieves conversing. That night, Sherwood enters the McKay home while the millionaire is out. He binds St. Claire and then removes several canvases from their frames. Rose enters. Levelling an automatic pistol, she holds the villain up. McKay returns home just in time to hear his daughter calling for help. The rascals are placed under arrest. Sterling is freed. To atone for their unjust suspicions, the millionaire and his wife consent to the artist's marriage to their daughter.