Waterfront Lady

Mac McFee, tired of running two illegal gambling ships, promises Ronny Hillyer that he will become a partner. This pledge is meant to cement their working relationship and secure Ronny's loyalty. The partnership would raise the stakes and share the load of the operation.

Gloria Vance, the boss's singer girlfriend, makes persistent advances toward Ronny. He must fend off her attention, which complicates his loyalty to Mac.

Ronny spots two unfamiliar casino patrons and grows suspicious that lookout Tom Burdon is the traitor. He alerts Mac to his concerns.

Mac calls Burdon into his office; as the police board the ship, Burdon draws a pistol. In the ensuing struggle, Burdon is accidentally shot and killed by Mac with Burdon's own weapon.

Ronny rushes in, grabs the gun, and runs out another door. He dives into the water and swims ashore, covering for his partner.

Ronny steals a sailor's clothes to maintain his disguise. He then encounters Joan O'Brien and her gambler father, Capt. O'Brien.

Ronny hides from the manhunt in Alex's home, pretending to be a friend named Bill. He and Joan begin to fall in love.

As they spend time together, Ronny and Joan grow closer. He phones Mac to discuss their plan to flee to South America.

Ronny calls Mac; they finalize plans to flee to South America by a freighter. The plan hinges on staying ahead of the police and keeping Ronny's identity hidden.

Mac breaks up with Gloria, realizing Ronny would never betray him. He arranges a freighter to smuggle Ronny out of the country and plans to dispose of the murder weapon.

Gloria tries to lure Ronny away, but Jess overhears her informing the police of Ronny's destination. Mac and Jess hire goons to reinforce their plan.

Tod exposes Ronny's location to the authorities, prompting a confrontation. Police move in and arrest Ronny and Mac.

Mac confesses to killing Burdon in self-defense. Ronny remains loyal, helping to clear the way for their fates.

With the danger behind them, Ronny and Joan are free to pursue her dream of opening a restaurant. The lovers start anew, hopeful for a life together.