The New Day's Dawn (1913)

Mr. and Mrs. Wynne are drifting apart after 10 years of wedlock, during which time their common interests have gradually grown less and less. They live in a great mansion--together, but almost entirely on separate lines. Their little daughter Dorothy is the only remaining bond of affection between them. Through her governess' carelessness, Dorothy is badly injured in a runaway accident and is carried home unconscious. As usual, Mrs. Wynne is at some afternoon reception and Mr. Wynne on his own affairs. Upon their return each is informed by the servants of Dorothy's injury, and each hastens to her room. The family doctor, whom the servants have called and who has long known of the Wynnes' strained relationship, of the Wynnes, refuses to allow either of them to enter the sick child's chamber as her condition is critical and requires perfect quiet. For hours the child lingers between life and death, no word coming from the sick room which the doctor and nurse dare not leave for an instant. Unable to bear the strain longer, the parents seek the hall just outside their child's door and meet there. The thought of Dorothy overcomes the mother and she sinks down by the door. Wynne gently lifts her up and for the first time in years each is glad of the other's presence. Throughout the long weary night they sit on the stairs by the child's room, Mrs. Wynne finally dropping to sleep in her husband's arms. With the new day's dawn the crisis is passed and the doctor breaks the news to the pair whose love has been rekindled by their child's suffering.

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Summary Details
GenresDrama Short