The Hardys' family life in the small town of Carvel is drastically altered when Judge Hardy is informed that he is the heir apparent to a two million dollar fortune that has come down from his ancestor Colonel Leeds, a soldier who fought in the War of 1812. The entire family packs up and moves to Detroit, where they are ensconced in a palatial mansion as they await the final decision of the courts concerning their inheritance. In Detroit, only Judge and Mrs. Hardy maintain a semblance of sanity, as Andy falls under the influence of Philip Westcott, the profligate foster son of the late millionaire Leeds. Plotting to overturn the Hardys' claim on his foster father's estate, Philip becomes friendly with Andy, introducing him to nightclubs and fortune hunting chorus girls. As Andy envisions himself a millionaire playboy, his sister Marian dreams of costly clothes and social prestige, and Aunt Milly transforms herself from a prim spinster to a social butterfly in hopes of ensnaring Mr. Archer, a man she met on the plane. Even the Judge's integrity is tested when he discovers evidence that proves his great grandfather Leeds was an adopted son, and therefore he is not a rightful heir. Returning to Carvel with his family, the Judge comes to his senses and renounces his claim on the fortune, much to the relief of Andy, who, terrified by the flirtations of a chorus girl, returns to his girl friend Polly. Similiarly, Marian realizes that expensive clothes will not bring her happiness, while Aunt Milly finds companionship with Mr. Davis, the town pharmacist. Thus, guided by the Judge's homespun philosophy, the Hardys' relinquish their social prestige to become just ordinary folks.