Mai Lin, a young Chinese girl reaches the shores of San Francisco in time to experience the great Earthquake of 1904. Almost drowning in her attempt to escape the devastating fire, she is rescued by Rob McDuff. Together with Ah Soo and Sing Ho, whose have also become homeless by the earthquake and fire, Mai Lin finds a family. When Rob McDuff's gambling debts puts the family in jeopardy, Mai Lin agrees to marry Duck Choy who has become enamored with her, unknowing that the man is part of a Chinese Tong. Mai Lin anticipates a loving marriage, especially when she becomes pregnant, but must eventually face the truth about her husband.