Dissecting Erle C. Kenton: Decoding Big Executive

Victor Conway, a successful young Wall Street executive, persuades feisty old-world businessman Commodore Richardson to sell him his share of a bank, despite the fact that Richardson disapproves of him. After a fight with his wife Sarah, Victor goes on a hunting expedition, and he accidentally shoots Sarah, killing her. Victor is released by the police for lack of motive and returns to work. Helena, Richardson's daughter, invites Victor to her home for a visit, hoping to kindle a romance between them and improve Richardson's and Victor's antagonistic relationship. A detente ensues until Richardson finds out Victor and Helena are engaged and he vows vengeance. After Victor's secretary, Miss Dolly Healy, brings Victor seemingly incriminating evidence concerning the death of his wife, Victor explains his situation to the Richardsons. His honesty is rewarded when Richardson destroys the evidence, but it is clear Victor is no longer a welcome visitor. Richardson then proceeds to destroy completely Victor's business, while also causing a market crash. Victor pays a goodwill visit to Richardson, who tells him that he has terminated his engagement to Helena. Helena regretfully returns Victor's ring, which he sells to a pawn shop for $1,000. Determined to get her man, Helena meets him at the shop and they are reunited.