Ferdinand Featherbrain, a penniless counter jumper is notified that he has inherited a legacy, left by a relative living in the moonshiner's district in Tennessee. The delighted Ferdie loses no time in appearing on the scene to claim his own. To his consternation he is informed that in order to secure the legacy, he must win the affections of the winsome mountain maid, Ruth, and defend the family honor in a desperate feud. Alarmed at the mere idea of shooting, he determines to leave at once for the city, but meeting Ruth he falls a captive to her charms and decides to see the fight through. Ruth, who has a sweetheart, resents Ferdie's attentions, and hoping to frighten him, they induce the village boys to masquerade as whitecaps. Their scheme succeeds at first and Ferdie almost gives up the game, but in the end displays unexpected bravery and turns the tables on the practical jokers. Ruth seeing she has misjudged the city man intimates her change of heart, and to Ferdie's surprise and joy, promises to share his life.