The Brink (1915)

Paul Martin, dissolute son of a rich father, loses his all at the gambling table. Later, at the club, he meets Grimshaw, wealthy man-about-town, to whom he tells his troubles. The following day the youth, ordered from his home by his irate parents, again meets Grimshaw, who invites him to share his home with him. Paul consents. Several days later Grimshaw reveals to the youth that he is the leader of a gang of society thieves and implores the youth to join forces with him. Penniless, Paul consents and is given the plans of the Kirkland home, in one of the city's suburbs, which Grimshaw has planned to rob. Paul, on Grimshaw's instructions, goes to Bayville, is introduced to Kirkland and later to his young daughter, with whom he later falls in love. Returning to the city, Paul informs Grimshaw that he is through with the gang and plans to lead a straight life. Grimshaw and "Chicago Red" attack him, bind and gag him and rush to Bayville to carry out the robbery. As they enter the dining room, they are confronted by Beth, Kirkland's daughter, whom they cover with their guns. Her cries, however, had been heard. Meanwhile, Paul, breaking loose from the bonds, engages an auto and is rushed to Bayville, entering as Beth shrieks for help. Chicago Red, leaping from a window, is shot and killed by Beth's father. Grimshaw flees, shouting back so all could hear that they should ask Paul what he knew of the contemplated robbery. Speeding his car around a sharp bend, Grimshaw loses control of the wheel and the machine leaps over a precipice, killing him. Questioned by Beth, Paul tells her everything and she forgives him.