Summary
In the gilded, yet often superficial, milieu of Washington Square, a fascinating narrative unfolds, charting the unlikely confluence of privilege and pragmatism. Phoebe-Ann, a figure of quiet fortitude, steps into the void left by her ailing mother, assuming the mantle of caretaker for the sprawling studio of Worthington Bryce. Worthy, a scion of wealth, ostensibly pursues an artistic vocation, though his energies are initially more devoted to the hedonistic pursuit of social revelry than genuine creative endeavor. His canvases remain largely untouched, his spirit unfocused. Upon her mother's passing, Phoebe-Ann's presence becomes a permanent fixture in Worthy's bohemian yet disordered existence, her unassuming integrity acting as an unexpected catalyst for his artistic awakening. Paradoxically, as Worthy's talent blossoms, he misattributes this newfound discipline and inspiration to Lela Trevor, his fiancée, a woman whose affections are conspicuously tied to his father's considerable fortune rather than Worthy himself. Lela's true allegiances lie with Worthy's friend, Dick Moreland, a clandestine affair that underscores the film's commentary on authentic connection versus calculated opportunism. The narrative intensifies when Worthy's financial lifeline is severed, a crisis that Phoebe-Ann discreetly mitigates by submitting his previously discarded literary works to a publisher. This act of quiet advocacy propels Worthy to an unforeseen literary triumph. The celebratory aftermath, however, exposes Lela’s duplicity as Phoebe-Ann witnesses her embrace with Dick. In a poignant act of selfless protection, Phoebe-Ann intercedes, fabricating a scene that implicates herself and spares Worthy immediate heartbreak. Though initially banished by Worthy, the truth, as often happens, finds its champion in Jenkins, the discerning valet, who reveals Lela's true colors. Ultimately, Lela acknowledges her genuine attachment to Dick, leaving Worthy to recognize the steadfast devotion and profound influence of Phoebe-Ann, whose journey culminates in a transformative dispatch to finishing school, signaling her ascent into a world now truly worthy of her inherent grace and intelligence.
Synopsis
Phoebe-Ann assumes her ill mother's duties as caretaker of the Washington Square studio of Worthington Bryce, who in attempting to become an artist against his wealthy father's wishes, has succeeded only in painting the town red. After her mother dies, Phoebe-Ann moves in with Worthy and his valet Jenkins, and although she is the reason for Worthy's subsequent serious pursuit of art, he credits his improvement to his fiancée Lela Trevor. Lela, however, merely desires his father's money, and really loves Worthy's friend Dick Moreland. When Worthy's father stops his allowance, Phoebe-Ann sends some stories Worthy earlier wrote to a publisher, and Worthy becomes an overnight success. After a midnight supper celebration, Phoebe-Ann catches Lela and Dick embracing. To save Worthy from being hurt, she hides Lela and kisses Dick. Although Worthy tells Phoebe-Ann to leave, the next morning Jenkins tells Worthy the truth. Lela acknowledges her love for Dick, and Worthy, now in love with Phoebe-Ann, sends her to finishing school.
