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- This entrancing story, drawn from the world-renowned tragedy of Goethe, opens in the mysterious working den of Dr. Faust, who, old and worn out with years of stern study, and on the verge of despair through longing for the pleasures of his bygone youth, all of which he has surrendered to his learning, thinks of resorting to in order to end the weariness of his declining days. He, however, dashes down the cup at the last moment, and calls upon the infernal powers to aid him. Immediately Mephistopheles appears and offers him youth and pleasure in exchange for the surrender of his soul. Faust, dazzled by the splendor of the vision which is to him by his alluring companion, accepts the compact, signs the fatal paper, and is at once transformed into a handsome young man. Mephistopheles then shows Faust the beautiful Marguerite, and immediately he falls desperately in love with the innocent girl. Finally, aided by the perfidious suggestions of his companion, Faust succeeds is in winning the heart of poor Marguerite. Valentine, eager to revenge his sister's honor, is killed in a duel by Faust, who seeks safety in flight. Betrayed, deserted, demented from sorrow, the unfortunate Marguerite is thrown into a dungeon and left to her grief. Meanwhile, Mephistopheles endeavors to make Faust forget the unhappy girl, but in vain; love has overcome the powers of evil, and all his magic is In vain. Faust hastens to the prison and seeks Marguerite; his passionate words of love restore her for a moment to reason, but only for a moment. She is just able to offer him forgiveness, and then dies in his arms. Rarely has there been a better representation of this wonderful drama. The pitiful story of Marguerite and Faust makes its appeal to all humanity, and words cannot add to its charm and effectiveness.
- For this film the Cines Company have chosen a subject which gives them ample scope for a display of that detail and accuracy which is so closely associated with all their productions. We see the Milanese, who have been vanquished, taken to the Emperor Barbarossa, who tramples their standard underfoot as a token of their subjection. But Albert of Guissanio arises as their champion. Taking leave of his betrothed, we see him consecrating his sword to his native land, and vowing to win back for his country its honor and prestige. He musters the Company of Death, who attend mass at the Cathedral and vow fealty to their leader; then they go forth to war. In a series of beautiful pictures are portrayed the Milanese performing the duties associated with warfare. Then the allies are blessed from the Gorrocio by their bishop, and rush off to the Legnano Battle, which is a masterpiece of stagecraft, and one of the finest battle scenes ever filmed. Here the Emperor Barbarossa receives his death wound, as do large numbers of his followers, the battlefield being strewn with dead and dying. But Albert of Guissanio has kept his vow, and home once more, we see him returning thanks for his safe deliverance.
- Husband and wife are going to a ball, and the husband goes out to get some flowers while the wife waits in for her dress. The wife learns from the girl who brings the dress that she has fallen in trouble at home and goes to the girl's home, leaving a note for her husband, saying that she has gone to call on a friend at a certain address and asking him to call on her there. Reaching the poor, ill-furnished garret where the girl's mother lies, the charitable visitor at once sees what is needed and, setting out with a big basket, buys all manner of good things with which she returns to the sick room shortly before her husband, who has been considerably puzzles by the character of the neighborhood in which his wife's friend lives, arrives arrayed in splendid evening attire and carrying a large bouquet. His first sentiment upon entering the room is disgust, and he tries to persuade his wife to leave, but she coaxes his pocketbook from him, gives the notes which it contains to the woman and then, placing an apron around him, sets her husband to cleaning the fireplace, which he does with some damage to his face and shirtfront.
- A chief of an Indian encampment orders one of the tribe to take his two children to the river. As the boys ate paddling, two white men pass, and one raises his rifle and wounds one of the children. The child is carefully carried back to the camp, and when the tale is told, the chief orders one of the braves to follow the "Palefaces." Crouching in the grass, the Indian follows the two men, and sees them ride up to an encampment. Quickly the news is carried back to the chief, and at night the Indians steal upon the encampment and carry off the owner's little boy. When the father discovers his loss, he sets out with two men, one of whom wounded the Indian's son, to the Indian's camp. As they arrive, the chief meets them with his wounded son, and asks the latter to point out who shot him. The child identities the man, who is dragged away, while the Indian chief at once gives up the white child to his father.
- The opening scene shows the hero and heroine, a young married couple, in a restaurant, and it is evident, as they rise to go home, that they have dined well. Meanwhile, at their flat, the careless porter had admitted to the young couple's apartment two suspicious-looking men and their boy. They are in the drawing room when the returning footsteps are heard. To conceal themselves, one seats himself in the armchair and hides beneath the cover; the other creeps under the table, while the boy takes the place of the music stool. The young wife throws herself with a sigh of content into the armchair, only to be clasped immediately in the arms of the hidden man. She jumps up with a scream, but the phenomenon is put down to the effect of too much champagne, until the piano stool, followed by the table and chair, walk unassisted out of the room. Hubby, after riddling the real chair with shot, wakes up to the necessity of pursuit, in which all and sundry are upset.
- At a public place, a fine-looking acrobat is endeavoring to attract the attention of the crowd. His efforts, however, are in vain, for all are interested in the clever tricks of a little dog belonging to a blind man. The blind man is fortunate, and after the performance is over, he goes aside to count his earnings. While thus engaged, he hears the sobs of a child, and turning, encounters a small lad weeping as though his heart would break. Upon inquiring as to the cause of is distress, the child informs him that his mother has died, and he has no money to buy a few flowers to place upon her last resting place. The generous man gives the boy a coin and sends him off to buy the much-coveted blossoms; with a joyous heart the child adorns the sad little grave of his dear mother. The acrobat, being jealous of the blind man's success, lures his dog away and strangles the little animal, thus destroying the blind man's means of support. The vicious wretch, however, is discovered in his cruel act, and taken to the police station. There he meets the blind man, who has asked if his dog has been brought there, and upon learning that the dog has been strangled and lies lifeless before him, he raises a piteous moan. The entire courtroom is astonished at this moment to behold the dog, considered dead, jump up and dash to its master, with joyful yelp and wag of tail. The clever little dog has used his tricks to good advantage, comprehending the intentions of the acrobat, and has pretended to be dead, so that the man ceased to choke him, but being reassured at the sound of his master's voice, he came quickly back to life, and thus the dog was restored to its poor owner.
- Louis is a poor fisherman of Brittany who is in love with the daughter of a well-to-do innkeeper, but who cannot marry the woman of his choice on account of his dire poverty. One lucky day, as Louis and his fellow fishermen are hauling in the net, Louis, to his great consternation, discovers a small casket entangled in his net. Upon opening the casket, a number of gold pieces gush out, and in the bottom lies a folded parchment containing some undecipherable inscription. Something prompts Louis to the belief that the document is worth more than the gold, and so that there will be no wrangle, offers his companion the gold, while he himself retains the ancient parchment. For some time Louis is unable to make anything of the inscription, but one day while he is standing before a mirror, endeavoring for the hundredth time to gain some intelligence from the curious writing, he glances in a mirror, and all is made plain; the inscription has been written backwards, and the precious mirror reflects, to the eye of the astonished Louis, the following words: "Let him who knows not fear search the depths of Gael's Gulf, where lieth the Measure of Morgan the Great." Louis confides his secret to his fiancée, who courageously volunteers to be his companion in his adventure to the dread Gulf of Gael. So they set sail, and after many hardships and dangers, the treasure is located and brought to the surface, and the lovers return home triumphant. Louis is now enriched, and the innkeeper no longer refuses him the hand of the daughter. Herr Innkeeper, therefore, announces the engagement, and a great celebration is made in honor of the event. During this great festival. Louis is made to take too much wine, and in consequence he becomes incautious, and informs some of the men present of the existence of his treasure, and they, becoming interested, force him to mention the place where the precious jewels are hid. These unscrupulous men at once plot to rob our hero, but Jenny, having overheard the conversation, counterplots, and is able to have the treasure saved just in the nick of time. So they are happily married, and, all's well that ends well.
- At the border of a wood a company of gypsies are seen playing dice. The sister of the chief pleads with him to give up the despicable game, and as he is exceedingly fond of his sister, laughingly promises. Later we see the same company performing in the street, having reached the town. In the evening the chief, forgetting his promise to his sister, again plays dice and drinks heavily. At last, having lost all he possessed, he accepts the challenge of a young nobleman to play one last game, his sister to be the stake! The nobleman wins, and despite the efforts of the rest of the company, the chief allows his sister to be carried off. Soon, however, the chief comes to himself, and with his followers starts in hot pursuit of the ignoble nobleman. The young gypsy woman fights valiantly against her captor, and so retards their progress that they are overtaken by the chief just as they are about to cross a stream in an open boat. The nobleman, seeing escape is impossible, shoots the chief, who falls overboard. Made desperate by her awful predicament and her love for her brother, the young woman flings herself overboard and aids in the rescue of the chief. Although badly wounded, he recovers, and is forgiven by her, for the wrong he has done her.
- Our hero is the harassed victim of an over-vigilant mother-in-las; never, never, notwithstanding all his efforts, it seems, can he enjoy, unmolested, the dictates of his own sweet will, but he must yield himself to be guided and governed, body and soul, by his ever-watchful and exacting mother-in-law. One day he takes up his flute, thinking to lose himself and the cares of his existence by pouring forth the distress of his heart in doleful minor notes. This does not please mother in-law, and she worries our poor friend until he flees to his room in despair, where he continues to toot-toot, while her ladyship pounds upon the door, commanding him to cease, and threatening all manner of things. The poor man glances out of the window, and seeing a tramp sunning himself on a railing just outside the window, a bright idea seizes him, and motioning the tramp to come in, gives him a coin and instructs him to continue the tooting, while he escapes unexpected, for a few hours' relaxation. He makes his exit through the window, and jumps into a cab, but mother has been too much for him, and he little dreams that the coachwoman is dear mother-in-law! He calls to see a lady friend, who is particularly glad to see him, and vice-versa. Mother-in-las disguises herself as the colored maid, and waits table. Later on the unfortunate fellow recognizes the waiting maid, and, true to the old adage, at last the "worm turned." He pursues her to the kitchen, and finding her in hiding, picks up the garbage can and lips it over mother-in-law's head, then pounds it down hard. Mother-in-law is stout, and therefore she suffers. Many were the experiments tried, and long was the time before mother could regain her usual amount of fresh air, light and comfort, and when at last this is accomplished he is cured of her discomforting vigilance, and her son-in-law is restored to domestic peace and tranquility.
- A film brimful of amusement for old and young. The phenomenal always attracts, in this instance more than usually. The feats accomplished by the freaks employed at this unique playhouse would scarcely be credited as humanly possible unless actually witnessed. To see is to laugh, and to laugh uncontrollably throughout the performance. A source of great fun to the children, and a well of pure enjoyment for all lovers of satire.
- The handsome Collie, who is the hero, shows himself strong and exceptionally intelligent, while the setting is decidedly pretty. 'The Duchess of Moran, a widow with one little daughter, refuses the offer of marriage of an adventurer, and the latter finds it necessary to make other plans. He instructs a party of roughs, and at night they enter the girl's bedroom and carry her off to a boat waiting at the seashore. The mother discovers the loss, and remembers the dog, the child's inseparable friend and companion. He is put on the scent, which leads to the seashore, where he plunges into the water and makes for the boat. He soon approaches; the girl recognizes him and encourages him until he is near enough to be helped into the boat, when he immediately seizes the villain by the throat and disables him. The girl then attaches a rope to the dog's collar and sets him to pull the boat back to shore. Meanwhile the adventurer has had an interview with the Duchess, and threatens the death of the child unless she consents to the proposal. The anguished mother has almost given way, when the child with the dog and a policeman burst in, and the ruffian is captured while the glad mother listens to the tale of the child. A pretty head-and-shoulders view of the girl and her handsome companion concludes the film.
- Two policemen are endeavoring to capture a couple of thieves, who seem about to escape with their plunder. Just as the officers are becoming discouraged and are about to give up the chase, a fairy appears and presents them with a magic wand, which, she informs them, will enable them to realize all their wishes. With this powerful weapon, they decide there is no hurry necessary, and so they leisurely partake of a delicious luncheon and continue the pursuit. The thieves have endeavored to evade the authorities by jumping into a balloon which immediately ascends and is soon lost to view among the clouds. The police do not hesitate, they immediately wish for an aeroplane, and start a most wonderful chase through the atmosphere. The balloon becomes disabled, and falls to the ground; the thieves leap out, unhurt. At that moment the aeroplane swoops down, the police wish for a cage to surround the villains; as quick as thought, the cage springs up around the runaways and they are captives before they realize the fact. The two officers then bear their prisoners triumphantly to headquarters where they receive great honors for the wonderful capture they have made.
- Lucy tells John, her lover, and a young officer in the army, that she has decided to release him, and upon his pleading with her, confesses that she cares for another. In a fit of madness, brought on by jealousy and disappointment, he seizes Lucy by the throat and strangles her. Suddenly realizing what he has done, he leaves the house, and rushing into his mother's boudoir, beseeches her to save him, as he has become a criminal. Later on, the public prosecutor calls upon General Lepran, who is ignorant of his son's trouble, and informs the General that it has become his duty to arrest his son. The father is enraged at what he hears, and immediately seeks his son in his room and denounces him for the disgrace he has brought upon his name. He then places a revolver in his son's hand, and leaves the room, commanding him to atone for his sin and save the honor of his name. The father then returns to the mother, and both wait in horrible anguish the sound of the shot that will bereave them of their boy, but save a soldier's honor. A few seconds later, and then a messenger rushes in with a telegram which states that Lucy has passed out of danger, and will not prosecute her lover, John. They hurry to the young officer's room, but arrive too late, the deed has been done, the soldier's honor saved!
- We first behold the wonderful scene of thousands upon thousands of sheep, peacefully grazing upon the verdant hillocks. Led by their shepherds, we see them taken down into the valley where the great cheese dairy is situated. There the milking takes place, after which we see all the various manipulations to which the milk is subjected in the making of the famous Roquefort cheese. At the end of all the operations, the cheeses are triumphantly loaded on immense automobile-wagons, and taken to the station, where they are distributed to all parts of the world.
- Here we have a wonderfully interesting film displaying the equestrian exploits of the gauchos, or cowboys, in the taming of wild beasts in Buenos Aires. Most realistically have we pictured before us the daring feats accomplished by these hardy men of the prairies. This film is really an educational feature, quite apart from the wonderful scenic effect. It affords an accurate appreciation of the cool nerve, calm judgment, and withal the quick and careful motion which it is necessary to bring to play in breaking in the wild and roaming beasts, and carefully and surely molding them into quiet, reliable domestic animals.
- At the time in which the Orsini were holding the Gottaferrata Fortress, Prince Filippo of that powerful house fell in love with Julie the beautiful sister of Prince Colonna. The confident Filippo makes demand for the hand of Julie, but being disdainfully refused, he swears to take revenge upon her house. He therefore plans a raid upon the Castle of Colonna, and in the midst of the confusion which ensues Filippo carries of the struggling Julie to his own fortress. There he pleads with her to return his affection, but she angrily and persistently resists him, until at last he becomes desperate, and casts her into a dungeon of the Gottaferrata Castle, where he vows she shall remain until she has overcome her obstinacy and is ready to yield to his wishes. In the meantime, however, Prince Colonna is roused to a spirit of terrible revenge; he hastily summons his followers, and makes a terrific dash toward the Castle of Filippo, storms the fortress, gains entrance, and in his intense rage seeks out Filippo Orsini, whom he comes upon in the very cloisters of the fortified abbey. A hand-to-hand fight ensues, and for a few moments the lives of both men hang in the balance. The Pope's Legate endeavors to stop the combat, but Colonna hastily orders some of his men who have come up, to seize and bind the man. The terrific conflict continues, till at last Filippo lies dead. Colonna, triumphant, sets free his sister Julie, and departs, carrying with him his prisoner, the Pope's Legate. Thus ends the tragic story of this lover of Julie Colonna.
- This is a very amusing film, showing plainly the various mysterious tricks put into operation in the production of the moving picture films. First we behold the execution of the scenario, the work of the stage manager, stage hands, mechanics, etc., and finally we have displayed before us the film completely finished and projected on the screen.
- After a long day's work, the laundry girl is very weary, and she sits down to rest. Presently, before her very eyes, and with the utmost ease and grace, the objects of her careful labor, collars, cuffs, shirts, etc., all white and glossy, take unto themselves the form of living things and with one accord come forward to make acknowledgment to the little laundry maiden of their appreciation of her skillful treatment of themselves. After many a lively frolic, performed for the amusement of the tired girl, the grateful bits of linen arrange themselves so as to form a fantastic and most magnificent "good-night.''
- Jose, a smuggler, and his pretty sweetheart, Juanita, arc seen parting from each other, and the former sets out on a smuggling expedition in which he is assisted by the girl's father. All goes well until, attempting to land with their cargo, the smugglers are surprised by the customs officers and a fierce struggle ensues, after which the whole party is captured, Juanita's father alone escaping, and he brings the news of Jose's capture to the girl. She is horror stricken, for she realizes the severity with which smuggling is punished and she enters a Carmelite convent, after parting with her parents. Shortly afterwards Jose arrives, having escaped from the officials, and learns from her parents that Juanita has taken the veil. He at once goes to the convent and waits until she passes. Realizing the hopelessness of ever seeing his dear one, the smuggler turns away and seeks death as the only resource left him.
- In this film we present to you a most interesting view of the magnificent falls of the world-famous Rhine, at Schaffouse, in all their varying and exceedingly beautiful aspects.
- This film furnishes a curious and intensely interesting display of the exercises, drills, etc., performed by the Egyptian firemen, concluding with an actual fire and one of the most daring rescues ever accomplished. Excitement prevails throughout.
- One of the Eclair educational gems which affords us a most comprehensive appreciation of that beautiful Swiss capital, cradled in the world-renowned and mighty Alps. We have here an excellent opportunity of learning a great deal of Swiss architecture in the study of the Federal and other interesting buildings and institutions, and learn much of the quaint customs of these dwellers among the crags. One of the chief features of the film is a visit to the famous bear-pit, in which is nurtured most carefully a great family of Swiss bears, the beloved emblem of the Swiss nation.
- Near the entrance to a large and fashionable church we see a ragged, deplorable looking old man loitering, drawn thither, it seems, by the strains of beautiful, all-inspiring music that issue from that sacred edifice. The old man seems wrapped in contemplation and the expression on his withered old face tells us that he is calling to mind the time when he enjoyed the privileges of that happy communion now worshiping; it brings up vividly before him the contrast between himself and them, and he sighs wearily as he thinks of the long train of misadventures and struggles and grief that have led him to his present condition. At last, apparently, the music stops; the service is over, and the congregation begins to pour out of church. While descending the steps one of the ladies drops her purse, and as it strikes the ground two dollar pieces roll out. Presently the old beggar's eye rests upon the purse and he hastily picks it up, but being near-sighted through age, does not notice the two coins which have fallen out of the purse. The poor old man, hungry and cold, and full of many sorrows, is seized with a great temptation; he thinks with glistening eyes of the comforts he could purchase for himself with his treasure. He reckons how many nights he may sleep in a warm bed instead of in the streets. Ah! It will be so good; it all looks so dear to him. But, no! In all his misery he has never stooped to dishonesty, he will not sully his old age by such a discreditable act. He therefore makes his weary way to the police station to deliver up his find. However, the owner of the purse has preceded him, in the hope of regaining her belongings. When she is handed her purse she immediately misses the two coins we saw fall upon the street, and the old beggar, about to depart, is brought back and accused of the theft. Although the old fellow positively denies his guilt, his appearance is against him and he is about to be placed under arrest. Just then two nuns appear and hand in two dollar pieces, with the statement that the same were found on the steps of the church nearby. The old man then is released and goes his way, almost exhausted from want of food, etc. He is soon overtaken by the good nuns, who having noticed the poor man's condition, follow him, and offer assistance. They kindly direct him to a House of Refuge, and we leave our poor friend enjoying his new comforts, the reward of his own honesty!
- (From Oscar Méténier's Celebrated Novel). The young wife of old Dupont, the wrestler, has become estranged from her husband. Her affections have been won by the athletic prowess of young Leon le Lyonnais, also wrestler, and friend of Nana's husband. Ultimately, Nana leaves Dupont for Leon, the man she loves. The two lovers lose no opportunity to taunt the old man on his great age and approaching weakness, and his inability to retain the affections of his wife. The old man, insane with rage, vows to have vengeance. It is the time of the afternoon performance of the wrestlers and acrobats at Bertrand's Circus; the performers enter the ring. Old Dupont, burning with personal indignation, challenges the lover of his wife, the brave Leon. Leon shrugs his shoulders and secretly laughs as he thinks how frail will be the enfeebled efforts of the old man, as compared with his own young vigor. The signal is given, and the opponents rush at each other. Dupont, wild with passionate anger, takes advantage of the moment; his rage gives him tenfold strength, and he quickly vanquishes the young and daring Leon who leaves the ring followed by the hissing of the wondering public. Nana watches the proceedings closely, and in her face are depicted in turn, scorn, surprise, admiration, fear! She cannot but recognize the signal victory her husband has attained; she dare no longer oppose or resist a man such as this. She submissively yields to him and in triumph he bears her home.
- Termol, the sculptor, is a very jolly fellow, really an easy-going chap who inspires a feeling of composure and careless ease in all with whom he comes in contact. And, assuredly, why not? The very gods have singled him out for their especial favors. Here is an account of one day's arduous work at Termol's studio. He enter, gazes fondly at the heap of clay, etc., and tools upon the bench, stretches his arms, yawns and subsides into a comfortable nap. No sooner is he wrapped in slumber's mantle than the gods bestir themselves, gradually the shapeless lump of clay and marble take unto themselves forms most graceful, most divine, and at last we see before us statues, grand in their completeness and worthy the art of Angelo. The rousing Termol beholds with joy the magic of the gods and laughs with joy at his good fortune.
- Mr. and Mrs. Durand have in their service a maid who is a marvel of slothfulness and passivity. Every effort of theirs to inculcate her with some agility seems fruitless, and they are about to give up in despair. However, Mr. Durand, passing an electrician's shop, notices some dry batteries, and at once conceives the idea of electrifying Mary by sewing these batteries in her waist. He pairs the action to the thought, and the effect upon the maid is instantaneous. All her duties are performed with the utmost alacrity, in fact, before the day is over, she is quite worn out, and decides to go to her room for rest. No sooner has the thought occurred than of its own accord the waist removes itself from Mary. An imprudent rag picker picks up the waist and forthwith receives the electric current, which starts her running wildly up the street. Pedestrians try to stop her, but they too are caught into the whirlpool of electricity and race on and on. It ultimately requires an electrician with gloved hands to stop this terrific race.
- Mr. Pousol, a blind old gentleman, promises his ward, Margaret, in marriage with his son, John. Margaret agrees to the union simply for the sake of her kind old guardian, as she does not love John, and besides, she knows him to be a gambler. One evening at his club John loses heavily and is forced to borrow a large sum of money, which he also loses. He is thereby placed in a very bad position. His creditor insists that he pay the 5,000 francs before the next day is over. John is very much dismayed, and in despair he contemplates tampering with his father's safe. A good friend of his, Phillip Rosay, notices John's agitation and quietly follows him. John proceeds straight to his father's study. John is surprised to see his friend come in after him; Phillip, having divined his friend's intention, sharply reproves him for his base conduct. John, having become extremely nervous, unconsciously touches the safe, and immediately the sound of bells is heard through the house. They flee to the door, but by an ingenious mechanical process the door swings to, and they are fast in a trap! The door opens suddenly and Margaret, revolver in hand, confronts them. Beside her is her blind guardian. Her arms drop to her side when she recognizes her fiancé and the man she secretly loves. She motions them not to move, and offering an explanation to her guardian which satisfies him that nothing is amiss, that it was a false alarm, she leads him back to his room. She soon returns and reproaches the two young men. In order to spare Margaret the shame of her fiancé's guilt, Phillip takes the blame himself. Margaret can hardly believe the man she has known ever to be a man of the strictest honor could have stooped so low, but she has the words from his own lips, and she sadly leaves the room. Next day John is obliged to confess to his father his gambling debt. In order to save his son's honor the father consents to pay the debt, but he orders his son to leave his house. Before leaving, John releases Margaret from her vow, recommending that she accept Phillip, who loves her, stating that she and Phillip will fill the place of children to his aged father far better than he could ever do. Overcome with sorrow and repentance, John departs, and the noble Phillip finds in the love of Margaret a full reward for his great sacrifice.
- An exceedingly raw recruit is being put through his paces, and at length, wearied by his clumsiness, the drill sergeant orders him to march, adding: "You shall stop when I tell you." At once the "rooky" marches onward, and as the sergeant is called away, and he receives no order to atop, the poor, unfortunate being commences his unending march. He charges into two washerwomen, pushes a motor over, collides with a tramcar and finally walks over the parapet into the street below. He is at once carried to a hospital, where he continues his motions in bed. At length the sergeant is summoned, who, grasping the situation, at once orders him to "halt," and the recruit drops at once into a sound sleep.
- The Éclair Company has the honor and the great pleasure to present to their patrons the very first views which have ever been taken within the most sacred Temple of the Lamas. Marvelous to behold are the imposing decorations of the ancient edifice, famous for its bronze dragons and other awful statuary, and while the spell of mysticism is yet upon us, a vast procession of priests of the seminary, on the way to prayer, comes into view, preceded by a company of musicians playing ivory instruments of such proportions that it requires several men to bear each piece. Then follow the Chinese officers, magnificent in their weird but sumptuous costumes, and last comes the great crowd of followers of the Faith, to join with the mighty in presenting sacrifice and homage to the great god, Dalai-Lama.
- Mr. X is a great billiard player, and is quite proud of his accomplishments in this direction. He never misses to challenge any of his friends, and, of course, never fails to come out victorious. As time goes on, his friends grow tired of being continually beaten, and besides, they are goaded by the knowledge, that despite their best efforts, they are unable to humiliate the proud Mr. X. At about this time, Mephistopheles happens along and tells the young friends of Mr. X, that if they will give him their souls, he will, in turn, challenge the mighty billiard player, and beat him at his own game. So keen has become the desire to avenge themselves upon their adversary that they make the compact. Accordingly Mephistopheles challenges Mr. X, who readily accepts, feeling confident, of course, of victory. He does not play very long, however, before he realizes that he is playing against some greater power than himself and all too soon, he is beaten by the artful wiles of his enemy. The failure is a great humiliation to our friend X, but it teaches him not to abuse his talent, as he has done in the past.
- Lucas and Lucy have fallen deeply in love with each other, but true love seldom runs smoothly, and owing to the fail that the parents of the young people strenuously object, the lovers are obliged to meet in secret. It happens that the village in which our two young friends live has recently been thrown into a state of excitement owing to considerable loss experienced by a great number of the villagers through the nightly pillaging of the poultry yards. One day the parents of sweet Lucy are obliged to make a long journey to a neighboring town, and the young people think it an excellent opportunity to enjoy a few quiet, undisturbed hours together. While our two affectionate friends are happily engaged in love-making the plunderers arrive. Lucas and Lucy are too much engrossed to know of the danger which approaches the poultry of Lucy's thrifty father, and the thieves make a clean sweep. Still Lucas lingers on, perfectly oblivious to time, and papa and mamma arrive, and immediately the awful theft is discovered. "Lucy, Lucy," is called several times, and the frightened young lady, hearing her parents' voices bids her lover flee. It is too late, however, and he is captured while leaving the premises. He is greatly disconcerted; he cannot think of any way to explain his presence, as he could not think of jeopardizing the young lady in any way. A way is opened before him; he is accused of the poultry robbery, and for the sake of his dear Lucy, admits the theft. In the meantime, the real criminals have been captured by two constables as they were leaving the village and at that moment are brought up. Lucas' innocence is quickly proven, and all is mystery as to why he should so readily have acknowledged a crime which he had not committed. However, Lucy's mother, who is gifted with a very quick intuition, soon perceived the actual state of affairs and, remembering that she herself was once a girl, takes our young friends by the hands and consents to their union.
- A great mystery surrounds the Squire of Chester; ever since the Squire returned from his many years' sojourn abroad, his place has been partially closed; never is the house brilliant with entertaining; in fact, it is seldom that anyone save the occupants of the house, and the servants, cross the threshold; the Squire and his little niece live in absolute loneliness. For no one but the owner himself, and one or two trusted servants, knows that part of the grim old mansion shelters a poor degraded creature, hopelessly mad, the Squire's wife! The Squire is most unhappy; he is bound forever to a woman who does not know him, who would tear him to pieces in a fit of madness, were lie to approach her, and he has fallen in love with the beautiful instructress of his young niece. At last, determining to take matters into his own hands, the Squire offers marriage to the young lady, and she, being ignorant of the existence of the mad woman, consents. Somehow or other, it is borne upon the dull mind of the mad woman of Chester that she has a rival, and she seeks to revenge herself. Evading her keepers, one night, she steals to the room of her husband, and sets fire to the bed; in a few moments, the whole building is in flames. The household is aroused, and the Squire works hard to save everyone, even his mad wife, but she makes her way to the roof, and in one of her wildest fits, hurls herself to death from the very highest point. The Squire sustains serious injuries from his endeavors to aid and rescue the occupants of his home; in fact, he is maimed for life. Seeing his deplorable condition, and loving him with all her heart, the governess, having learned the whole truth forgives the Squire the wrong he would have done her, and consents to marry him, and be his nurse and comfort all her life.
- Georgione, the famous painter, and a poor girl, Cecilia, have fallen in love with each other. An end is put to their happiness, however, by the jealousy of a great lady of the House of Crimani, a Venetian patrician, which grand lady longs for the love of Georgione, and cannot bear to contemplate his affection for another. Accordingly, the lady procures the services of one Marco de Feltre, an unprincipled man, who succeeds in getting Cecilia under his influence, and by means of threats and other base methods lures the girl from her home. Bereft of his love, Georgione falls dangerously ill. Meanwhile the vicious Marco de Feltre takes part in a vulgar quarrel, in which he is killed, and his death sets out young heroine at liberty. She makes all haste to the side of her lover and reaches there in time to see the expression of recognition and happiness pass over his face, but the poor girl is doomed to utter despair, for next moment her beloved drops back into the sleep eternal.
- A fisher lad and his sweetheart are love-making, and on their way home they meet an old and ugly woman, whom the lad roughly pushes aside, laughing scornfully at the terrible curses which the old woman hurls at him. He shortly afterwards again encounters the witch, and she leaves him so strange in his manner that his sweetheart takes him to the village church, where the holy influence enables him to regain his right senses. Once again he meets with the witch, but this time in the garb of a lovely maiden, who leads him to the water, where she vanishes. The lad plunges in after her, but is drowned, and his dead body is recovered later. Meanwhile, his sweetheart has accused the old witch of being the cause of his death, and the villagers seize her and bind her to a stake. Heaped around with faggots, a fire is lit, but to the terror of all the flames take the form of a group of flowers, and the old witch again changes into a lovely maiden and slowly vanishes.
- The Newrichs' butler and maid throw up their situations on the night of the great ball. There is no time to get substitutes and the son-in-law is shaved by force, given the butler's coat, and made to understand that he must take the latter's place. Not unnaturally, a great deal of confusion arises from the new servant's methods of performing his duties. He persists in shaking hands with a great many of the guests and they are infuriated at the familiarity of their friends' servant with their wives. A party of male guests in the smoking room are more disgusted when the butler familiarly slaps one and another on the back, and they unite to throw him out bodily. After numerous farcical situations, his better half offers him his own coat, and exclaiming, "I throw up the Job!" he discloses his real identity.
- Juliet declares most positively to all her aspiring young beaux that she will condescend to marry but a real, live artist! Accordingly, our hero hastens to devise a means whereby be may make himself eligible, and finally decides to take advantage of an opportunity that is afforded him to become a comedian. The contract is speedily signed, and our sanguine friend retiree to dream of the success which lies before him. We next behold the irrepressible in the midst of his perplexities "Behind the Scenes," in which mystic situation he has come to the conclusion that "distance truly lends enchantment," and all is not quite so glittering as when gazed upon from the other side of the footlights. Still, he is borne up by the happiness which awaits him, and his tribulations assume the weight of a feather, until some news is brought him, sad, sad news, his dear beloved Juliet has forgotten her vow to wed an artist, and has consented to become a countess. Then all is chaos; oblivion slowly closes in!
- The hero of this farcical story is a convict whom we first see as he laboriously creeps into the mattress of his hard cell. Shortly afterwards two wardens enter and not noticing the presence of the prisoner, hang the mattress across the window sill to air. It slips out, and falls on several other mattresses. The wardens rush out, but too late to seize the prisoner, who adroitly slips out of their way through the fanlight of a baker's shop, into a huge dough trough. It happens that at this moment the Mayor visits the baker and orders the biggest loaf the oven will hold for a village fete. The dough with our friend is quickly transferred to the oven, and after a period emerges in the shape of an elaborate loaf of bread, which is hastily carried to the Mayor's fete. Here it excites general admiration until cut open, when the prisoner is discovered. The latter manages to make good his escape, and overcomes the officer who overtakes him and forces him to change clothes. Then he helps to capture the runaway. Unfortunately, nothing that the official can say will persuade his "comrades" that it is not his duty to go in the van with the prisoner in order to give evidence of his capture, and he is driven back to the prison where his disguise, alas, is soon seen through, and a return to his cell quickly ordered.
- Paul and Jeanne are devoted lovers and meet on the balcony of their homes, which are side by side. The affair does not meet with the approval of Jeanne's papa, a retired colonel, who drags his daughter from the balcony. Balked of a personal meeting with his divinity, the young man tries to convey a note to her, and drops it, as he imagines, in her shoe. Unluckily the note falls into the colonel's boot by mistake, and the latter is amazed by the sudden affection of his daughter, who tries to persuade him not to go out. He insists, and accompanied by the girl, ventures into the street. The lover's efforts are now all directed towards getting hold of the boot with its incriminating contents. He bribes a water cart driver to pour a flood over the old man's foot. The latter refuses to take off his boot, and so, disguised as a bootblack, he attempts to get the boot off, only to have his face blackened. Success is secured with the aid of two friends, who, disguised as Apaches, seize the colonel and take the boot off by force. The young man rushing up in the guise of a rescuer receives the old man's hearty thanks and the hand of his daughter.
- Dr. Moreau admits to his home very frequently, a certain Mr. Bridaux, an inveterate gambler, who is pursued by his creditors, even in the house of his friends. While paying one of his frequent visits to his friend. Dr. Moreau, Bridaux is presented with a note from a creditor to whom he has lost 3,000 francs, stating that unless the debt is paid immediately, he will publish the fact that Bridaux has failed to make good his debt of honor. Bridaux becomes greatly agitated, and begins to formulate a scheme to save himself from the impending dishonor. He leaves the house with the Doctor, but returns a short while later, intending to seize the first opportunity to steal into Madame's room and filch her jewels. While on his base errand, the Doctor, who has forgotten his medicine case returns; there is no way to escape notice, and Bridaux determines upon a base method to avert suspicion. He enters Mrs. Moreau's room without attracting the notice of that lady, who is engaged in dressing, and just as the doctor makes his appearance, he takes the lady in his arms, which act, of course, enrages the doctor, and he, without allowing his wife opportunity for explanation, drives her from his home. Wounded in spirit, the poor woman returns to her own family, but she cannot rest for the longing for her children, which takes possession of her; a faithful servant brings her news from day to day, and tells her how the poor little things pine and cry for their mother. Some time later, the mother hears that her husband is looking for a governess for the children, and so, under disguise, she applies for the position and is accepted. The children soon recognizes her, but for love of her they keep the secret from their father. Meanwhile, Bridaux, who has been going from bad to worse, is wounded in a quarrel, and on his death-bed sends for his friend, the doctor, and confesses his ignominious deed, and vindicates the doctor's wife, entirely. The doctor returns home, bowed down with grief at the injustice he has committed, wishing that he but knew the whereabouts of his wife that he might send for her. The children notice his trouble, and when he explains, they lead him to the room of their governess; he at once recognizes his wife and heartbrokenly implores forgiveness; a happy reconciliation is brought about, the doctor receiving the most hearty forgiveness from his good wife.
- Jack and Gaspard, two firm friends, are looking for work in the harvest field and are directed by a pretty country girl, whom they meet in the meadows, to her father's farm, where they are immediately engaged. The two friends soon become favorites at the farm owing to their willingness, and it is easily discerned as time goes on that the pretty daughter of the household has made an effect upon both. When Gaspard ultimately discovers that Jack is the favored one he is seized with a jealous rage, and after Jack has obtained the farmer's consent, the former picks a quarrel with his friend and they part angrily. The betrothal feast soon takes place and the sight of the general happiness increases Gaspard's bitterness. Meeting his rival apart, Gaspard strikes down his old friend Jack and, without a parting glance, flees to the neighboring woods. The girl finds her lover senseless, and is soon summoned and the young man cared for. Meanwhile Gaspard, haunted by his guilty conscience, sees a vision in which he is seized by two officers: unstrung by this he makes his way to the road, where he really meets two officers, who, noting Gaspard's agitation, take him in custody to the village, where he is accused of assaulting his friend. Being led to the sick man's bedside for identification. Jack, remembering their former strong friendship, refuses to accuse, stating he is not the guilty man. Gaspard is overcome by his friend's magnanimity and falls on his knees imploring forgiveness.
- Slender pay and an eternal thirst force old Sergeant Arnold to forget the fact that his weapons are not his own, but the King's. Cool, frothing beer cannot be had for the love of it, and in order to replenish his quite exhausted purse, the worthy Sergeant pawns his trusty blade! Frederick of Prussia, under the disguise of a private of his own guard, witnesses the risky transaction of the Sergeant. He immediately orders a review of his guard regiment, and when in front of Sergeant Arnold, orders him to produce his sword for inspection. The next moment the blade is snapped in two by Frederick, who knows that the steel has been changed for a simple wooden slat. This means for old Arnold court-martial, and the execution platform, and the brave old fellow is quite willing to meet his fate like a man. At the crucial moment, however, the King notices on the breast of Arnold the Medal of the Brave, and consents to forget the sin and remember only the courage of his faithful old grenadier.
- Count Ulrich and his wife Barberine were possessed with great love for each other, but being poor, and the Count wishing to give his wife all the luxury possible, goes to the Court of Queen Beatrice of Aragon, where honor and riches await them. Barberine, before her husband leaves, gives him her portrait, and he swears to preserve it religiously always. Ulrich loses himself in the forest, when, fortunately, he meets Astolphe de Rosenberg, who also is on his way to Court. They decide to travel together. Rosenberg is happy, while Ulrich is lost in the recollection of his dear Barberine. At Court, the sad demeanor of Ulrich is noticed by the frivolous courtiers, who jibe and mock him. Astolphe is the most cutting of them all, and he has even the temerity to bet that he will succeed in winning Barberine's love. Ulrich accepts the defy and gives Rosenberg all necessary instructions so that he will be received at Barberine's chateau. Arriving there, Rosenberg finds her sadly at work on her spinning wheel. She receives Rosenberg joyously, as he pretends to have been sent by her husband. Without much ado, Rosenberg begins his protestations of love. The young woman is at first indignant, but smile with malice and leads Rosenberg on through the corridors of the chateau. Rosenberg thinks that he is about to triumph and win her love, when she opens the door of a cell and says gracefully to Rosenberg, "Enter into this room, my lord, and I will follow thee." Rosenberg, without suspicion, enters, and immediately Barberine closes the cell door on him. He is a prisoner. Hunger manifests itself to Rosenberg, who cries, menaces and supplicates. Through the grating of the door a servant throws him a few crusts of bread, and she tells him that he will not eat anything more until he has woven all the thread on the wheel. In the meantime, Ulrich and the Queen reach the chateau in great pomp. Barberine shows them the cell where Rosenberg is at work with his flax. Nothing is left for Rosenberg but to acknowledge that he has lost the best, and that he has made a serious mistake. Ulrich is not willing to accept the amount of wager, as he had never doubted his wife's love. The presumptuous Rosenberg recalls to the Queen and Ulrich that he has not yet dined, and is very hungry. Everyone then goes to the dining room, where a most sumptuous feast is served.
- The entire fortune of the old showman, Petrus, consists in his pet six-legged sheep, but the phenomenon falls to command much enthusiasm, and therefore, Petrus and his family continue in dire poverty. It happens that a passerby, noticing the beauty of Lucie, the daughter of old Petrus, falls in love with her, and in order to escape the misery of her poverty-stricken home, she consents to an elopement. When the old father discovers that his daughter has left him to marry Rudolph, he is broken hearted, and falls ill with want and sorrow. As they have no resources, Petrus' old wife is obliged at length to dispose of the beloved pet of the family, the six-legged sheep, in order to supply nourishment to the sick man and bring him back to health. When he recovers, he continually inquires for the pet which has so long been the only means of earning bread for him and his, and at last the wife is obliged to tell him that she was forced to sacrifice the dear sheep to save his life. The scene is a most touching one and the distress of the old couple is beyond expression. Meanwhile, Lucie and Rudolph, happily married, are on their way to visit and bring cheer to the old couple, and on their way they meet the slaughterhouse cart, in which Lucie recognizes the pet and playmate of her childhood. The cart is stopped, and the sheep bought back, and the young people immediately perceiving what has happened, hasten to restore the lost treasure of old Petrus and his wife. So the old couple have the double joy of seeing their dear daughter well and happy, and also welcome with tears the return of the sheep.
- Vincent and Perdito are two brothers; the first an honest laborer and the second a wild young fellow, a lover of adventure, and who has become the leader of a gang which haunts the mountains near their peasant home. Upon returning from his labors one evening Vincent finds his mother in a swoon, and after arranging her comfortably upon the couch, rushes off to summon the doctor. Unfortunately, the doctor is not at home, but Vincent leaves a message asking that the doctor do not delay his visit to the old woman upon his return. He then hastens home to do all he can for his dear mother in the meantime. A little later the doctor returns from a fatiguing watch beside a suffering patient, but notwithstanding the fact that he is faint and weak with his day's work himself the good physician starts out to administer to Vincent's aged mother. The path the doctor must take to reach the peasants' cottage leads through a woods, down the mountain-side, and as he is hurrying on in the gathering dusk he is suddenly set upon by a band of footpads, robbed, and left unconscious. Meanwhile, the son, anxiously watching over, his sick mother, becomes more and more nervous at the delay of the physician. He goes time and again to the door to listen for the welcome sound of footsteps, but in vain. At last he decides that he will calm himself by walking a short distance to meet the doctor, and before he has gone very far what is his surprise to come upon the prostrate form of a man! And how much greater his consternation when he recognizes the doctor whom he has been so eagerly expecting. Vincent helps the doctor, who is just recovering consciousness, to rise and offers to assist him to his home. But the good man will not hear of it; despite his own injuries and distress he insists on proceeding to the home of Vincent to do what he can for the suffering woman. Just as they are about to set off Vincent notices a hat upon the ground, and, picking it up, recognizes it as his own brother's. With a burst of grief and resentment Vincent informs the doctor that his assailant is his own brother, and the son of the woman for whom he has been willing to endure so much in order to aid. This news does not affect the good man's intentions, and leaning upon Vincent's arm he proceeds to the cottage and after arduous labor restores hope to the mother and son by pronouncing that the danger is over. At this moment the erring son enters, and seeing his mother lying ill rushes to her bedside, but the brother places himself between them and points toward the good doctor, denouncing his brother as a thief and would-be murderer. It is at this point that Perdito recognizes the doctor as his victim of the earlier evening, and when the full realization flashes upon him, that he might, through his crime have caused the death of his mother, beloved throughout all his waywardness, he falls at the feet of the doctor, imploring forgiveness. The brother would have spurned him, but not so the good physician. He raises the young man from his feet, and places his hand within that of his brother, exhorting them both to love one another, and the younger one to return from his evil ways. Thus a soul is saved and love and happiness and health restored to a family, through the power of doing one's duty.
- John Medici, better known under his war name of John "des Bandes Noires," visiting Raphael's studio in the following of Leo X, saw Emma, the beautiful sister of the painter Caravaggio. John and Emma fall desperately in love with each other, and the girl, forgetting all prudence, accepts an appointment from her lever in her own house. Emma's brother runs home to revenge the insult, but John makes good his escape, while Emma is sent back to her mother in the City of Caravaggio. Some time afterward John at the head of his army takes the town of Caravaggio by storm, and in the terrible sacking which follows the victory Emma's mother is slain by the furious soldiery. John succeeds in saving Emma's life, but the girl, horrified at the sight of the man she holds responsible for the death of her mother, rejects John's proposal to marry her and seeks for peace and oblivion in a convent. Mortally wounded at the battle of Cassano, John is taken to the palace of the Marquis Gonzaga. On his death-bed he remembers Emma, and sends her an ardent appeal to come and forgive him. The young nun, still dearly loving John, rushes to his side, but only in time to see him die the death of a soldier.
- Our humorous friend, Tontolini, again makes his appearance before our pleased eyes; this time, he secures a position as a menial in the house of one of the famous ballet dancers. He is ordered to tidy up the room of his mistress, while she takes her afternoon airing. In the performance of his duties, Tontolini comes across the professional attire of his mistress, and after some hesitation and embarrassments, succeeds in arraying himself in the costume of the ballet. Poor Tontolini. Indeed he seems to be related in some manner to our well-known friend "Happy Hooligan" the very mode and style of manufacture of his newly acquired apparel, proves to be his undoing, to the endless enjoyment of all the spectators, and serious discomfort to poor Tontolini, and others "In his train!"
- Mr. Penniless will not receive his wages until to-morrow, notwithstanding the fact that he has not eaten anything today and has grown excruciatingly hungry. He exerts every effort and employs every conceivable stratagem to obtain a meal, but all without avail. Night comes on, and Mr. Penniless falls asleep, only to be overcome by a terrible nightmare, he sees food in all its forms, passing tauntingly before his eyes, but he is unable to grasp any of it, or to convey a single morsel to his longing lips. At last he jumps up, lights a match and glances at his watch, one minute past twelve! Ye gods! The nightmare smashes in an instant. Who cares for to-morrow; to-day is pay day!