Young sailor Martin Eden one day saved from death an unknown young man, who in gratitude invited him to a dinner party. For the first time in noble company, the uncouth and clumsy Martin meets the young man’s sister, Ruth Morse—and she instantly conquers his heart. Martin understands that he—an ordinary guy—will never be with such a girl as Ruth. However, Martin Eden can’t give up and decides to leave his previous life behind and become better, smarter, and more educated, so he can win the girl’s heart.