The Smouldering Spark (1914)

movie

Country: USA
Genres: Drama, Short
Release: 1914-04-29
Director: William Desmond Taylor
Writers: Joseph F. Poland
Language: None | English
Stars: Edward Coxen , William Bertram , Ida Lewis , George Field , Kathie Fischer , B. Reeves Eason , Ethyle Cooke
Runtime: 10 min
Awards: N/A
AKA: The Smouldering Spark (United States of America) , The Smouldering Spark
Plot: "A spark of manhood smoulders in them all," so Frederick Miller declares, looking from the luxurious club's window at the unfortunates on the nearby park benches. The other club men scoff, and Miller wagers Duncan that, given a chance, one of those human wrecks will redeem himself. Miller selects Jack Martin, a derelict on life's sea, and gives him a position as butler in his home. Jack's attitude at first is antagonistic, but he begins to change through the kindliness of Miller, his wife, and son Tom, and particularly sweet little Ellen, Miller's seven-year-old daughter. Tom Miller, through bad association, falls into debt, and Miller angrily refuses him money. Tom rifles his father's safe. Jack sees this and wishing to shield the boy and fearing that shock of the truth would be too great for Miller, he assumes the blame when the theft is discovered. Miller, believing Jack hopeless, sadly dismisses him. A little later Jack finds once more a derelict. As he pauses irresolutely before a saloon, he sees Tom within, drinking with some friends. A brawl starts, in which Tom is hurt. Jack enters, saves Tom from further harm and takes him home. Tom, remorseful, confesses the theft of the money, clearing Jack. Jack is warmly thanked by Miller, and once more welcome in their home. Miller writes to Duncan saying, "I win the wager. Our derelict not only possessed the smouldering spark, but he has made a man of my son as well."
IMDB:tt0778110