The document summarizes the plot of the short story "A Wicked Woman" by Jack London. It describes how Loretta, a shy and innocent young woman, goes to live with the Hemingways in Santa Clara, California. There, she begins to develop her personality and desires attention from Ned Bashford and others. She receives heartbreaking letters from her former lover Billy, who believes she should marry him since they kissed. The summary provides background on the main characters and notes that the story reflects traditional standards of morality in early 20th century America.