The narrative feels constrained and somewhat restricted, yet seeing Helen Hayes deliver a strong performance makes it worthwhile. The film begins with a woman entering her husband’s study to leave a message; she is departing, believing his frequent absences with another person confirm an affair. Fortunately, "Dr. Dulac" (Jean Hersholt) happens to be present and comforts her by recounting a story. This introduces “Madelon,” the central character who finds herself caught up in the illegal dealings of "the Count" (Lewis Stone). Both are arrested, but he avoids serious consequences, leaving her to serve ten years in prison for being an accessory. During that time, she must entrust her infant son to the care of the benevolent “Dulac,” who encourages the boy’s desire to become a physician. After gaining her freedom, she takes on various jobs to earn enough money to secretly finance his medical education – and then encounters him (Robert Young). He appears kind, but she, now living in poverty, is too embarrassed to reveal her identity. Will they all be able to find resolution? Hayes is captivating; she conveys a depth of emotion and personality that illustrates the extraordinary measures a mother will take, particularly one who has been wronged, to support her child. Hersholt also performs well, as do Stone’s brief appearances. The sequence of events is somewhat conventional and straightforward, but it remains an enjoyable experience.

Source on TMDB