The Blackmailer (1913)
Ralph is an underpaid clerk. He is kept in check by a sick sister. The doctor says that she must go to a dry western climate if her life is to be spared. Ralph tells his troubles to a fellow clerk. Jason, who writes out a check and makes Ralph forge the signature of his employer, Mr. Howard. Ralph cashes the check, gives Jason half and hurrying home, he escapes with Grace to the west, where he gets work on a ranch. The forgery is discovered and Jason's part in the transaction is forced from him and he is tried and sentenced. He comes from jail more evilly than he was before. He traces Ralph and Grace to the west, sees Ralph out riding with Rose, the ranchman's daughter, to whom he is betrothed. Ralph has become the trusted employee of the ranchman and he is horrified when confronted by Jason in the corral. He gives Jason all the money be possesses and begs him to leave him alone. The old terror takes hold of Ralph and Rose wonders what ails him, while Grace, now completely recovered, has a nameless dread she cannot de6ne. One evening the boss leaves Ralph in the office making up the payroll. Jason enters the window and demands the money, threatening exposure. Ralph attacks Jason and there is a fight, which is interrupted by the boss, Rose and Grace, who rush in. Jason accuses Ralph and Ralph has no answer. Grace guesses the truth and Ralph admits he did it to save his sister's life. His sweetheart is staunch and tell him to go back and face the charge. Ralph does this, accompanied by Grace, his sister. He explains and confesses to the merchant and as Mr. Howard goes to the phone to call the police, Grace makes her appeal to Mrs. Howard, who pleads for Ralph with her husband. She uses a successful method, by showing him a portrait of their dead son. Mr. Howard tells Ralph to go and sin no more, and Ralph returns to find Rose waiting to help his better self through life. The ranch boss tells Grace he has found another daughter, and she is well content.
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| Filmmakers | Role |
|---|---|
| David Horsley | Producer |
