Big Stakes (1922)

Mercedes Aloyez, the daughter of a wealthy Mexican rancher, is betrothed to Captain Montaya, however she is more interested in newcomer Jim Gregory. The feeling is reciprocate, and Gregory earns Montaya's hostility. The captain surprises Mercedes and Gregory in a tryst, threatens to loose a dangerous reptile on the cowboy, but instead finds himself wagering his life against Gregory's with jumping beans. A victorious Gregory spares Montaya but passes to Mercedes the choice of who will live. This situation is interrupted by a request for help from Mary, a waitress, who has been captured by night riders. Gregory leaves Mercedes and Montaya to rescue and find happiness with Mary.