Summary
Peter Olsen, a solitary figure dwelling on a neglected farm, finds his meager existence and burgeoning alcoholism challenged by Dorcas Chatham’s gentle concern. His life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers an injured dog by the roadside, a creature that quickly becomes his sole companion. This canine’s fierce loyalty is put to the test when it defends Peter from assailants during one of his drunken escapades, an act of selfless devotion that slowly begins to rekindle Peter's dormant self-respect. As Peter’s character transforms, Dorcas’s initial apprehension towards the dog gives way to affection for Peter, leading to a proposal. The bond with his dog, however, is threatened when a dog show reveals the animal's true owner, leading to a poignant separation and eventual reunion that solidifies Peter’s newfound identity and his relationship with Dorcas.
Synopsis
Peter Olsen, a young social outcast who lives alone on a rundown farm and raises vegetables for a living, finds his only consolation in liquor, though Dorcas Chatham, daughter of the general store owner, begs him to forego this indulgence. Returning from town, he finds a dog by the roadside, apparently injured by a car, and takes it home. Later, on a drunken spree, Peter is attacked by robbers, but the dog comes to his rescue and frightens the assailants away. Stirred by the unselfish devotion of his dog, Peter gradually regains his self-respect, and Dorcas falls in love with him and accepts his proposal, though she fears the dog. When Peter enters the dog in a show, another exhibitor proves to be its owner, and Peter is first parted from, then reunited with, "his" dog. Dorcas overcomes her fear and is united with Peter.
