The Redemption (1913)
Harrison Grey, an eminent sociologist, advocates the theory that a criminal is only a criminal because he has not had proper opportunities to develop an honest character. One of Grey's newspaper articles comes to the notice of Edward Graham, a friend of the sociologist. Graham, skeptical to the extent of being cynical, laughs at Grey's theories and informs his friend that they cannot be proven. The two men walk into a park to continue the discussion. "Red" Ellis and Mag Milford, two members of the underworld, pass through the park and attract the attention of Graham. The latter, recognizing the character of the passerby, tells his companion that the way has opened for him to test his theory. "Call this young fellow over, extend him an act of kindness and you will soon see that you have not only lost your time, but have opened the way for this crook to take advantage of you." Grey accepts the challenge and makes Ellis' acquaintance. He gives the young fellow money and invites him to call. Ellis joins his friends and tells them of the affair. The money is soon spent and he decides to accept the invitation to call at the Grey residence, thinking he will have an opportunity to ply his trade. The hospitality of the sociologist completely disarms Ellis for a time, but when the occasion presents itself, the crook pockets a purse which Grey has purposely left on the table as a temptation. When he reaches the street Ellis is troubled by a guilty conscience for the first time in his life but he is not strong enough to follow his dictates. At a street corner, he sees a Salvation Army meeting. Heretofore, he has scoffed at the earnest mission workers, but now something within causes him to stop and listen. He overhears the testimony of a happy man who has given up his evil ways and the message is not lost. Ellis retraces his steps and, full of remorse, restores the purse to its owner. "You are mine!" exclaims Grey. "Never again will you return to your old life." Ellis is taken into the Grey household and a promising position is secured for him. Through his industry, he rapidly progresses and becomes a respected member of society. One day, while on his way to work. Ellis is accosted by two of his old companions, Mag and Shifty. They invite him to visit the old meeting place and are disgusted when he refuses. Ellis resolves to save Mag, whom he has long admired. He therefore visits the dance hall and in a moment of weakness is tempted to take a drink. Losing control of himself, he tells the gang of a necklace, which he has recently seen in the Grey residence and they induce him to secure it. Ellis returns home and finds the jewels. Just as he is about to join the gang he awakens to the mistake he is making and buries his face in shame. Mag, who has been suspicious, looks through the window and learns that Ellis has overcome the temptation. The woman creeps into the room and, unseen by Ellis, makes away with the necklace. The noise of her departure is heard by Grey, who is entertaining Graham in the parlor. Grey and his guest come into the room, where they discover the loss of the jewels and the compromising attitude of Ellis. The young man is horrified when he sees that the gang has outwitted him. He pleads his innocence and while Graham smiles with cynical satisfaction, Grey declares that he still has faith in the unfortunate man. Anxious to free himself from suspicion, Ellis states that he will secure the necklace and return with it in half an hour. Despite the protests of Graham, Grey permits Ellis to depart. The young man finds it no easy matter to keep his word. Mag refuses to give up the jewels and when he finally secures them he is attacked by the gang. After a desperate struggle Ellis gains his freedom and, with the necklace tightly clutched in his hand, he bursts into Grey's parlor. The time has almost expired, but the sociologist's faith has never wavered. Graham is obliged to acknowledge that Grey's theory has been given a practical demonstration and cordially shakes hands with Ellis.
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GenresDrama
Short
IMDbPro
See more details at IMDbPro
| Filmmakers | Role |
|---|---|
| George Melford | Director |
| Cast | Role |
|---|---|
| Carlyle Blackwell | |
| William H. West | |
| Marin Sais | |
| Jane Wolfe |
