Ouray, an ambitious young Indian, is sent east by Captain Huff, an army surgeon, to acquire a medical education. The officer writes to his brother, who is also a doctor, requesting him to aid the boy. As time passes, Ouray forgets Nookah, the chief's daughter, to whom he is betrothed. He falls in love with Ellen, the daughter of his benefactor. Later, Ouray graduates at the head of the class. Dr. Huff eventually shares his practice with the boy. Believing that he is on an equal social footing with his white friends, Ouray asks Ellen to marry him. The girl consents, to Ouray's astonishment. Dr. Huff flies into a rage when he learns of their betrothal. After ordering Ellen to return the engagement ring, he bluntly notifies the boy that an Indian shall never marry his daughter. Captain Huff secures a leave of absence and arrives at his brother's home in time to learn the state of affairs. He also scores the Indian for his presumption in desiring to marry a white girl. Chief Big Bear is stricken with a fatal illness. Before he dies, the Indian notifies his tribe that he wishes Ouray to succeed him as head of his people. Nookah is sent to notify Ouray to return to the tribe. The maid comes upon Ouray just as Captain Huff finishes his reproof. She silently places the chief's war bonnet in the boy's hand. The call of his tribe reminds Ouray that he has been faithless in his vows to Nookah. Placing his arm about the maid's shoulder, Ouray turns his back upon the ways of the white men and returns to his people.
—Moving Picture World synopsis