One of Many

Summary

In an era where hardship often dictated destinies, 'One of Many' unfurls a poignant narrative of Shirley, a young woman ensnared in the vise of familial poverty and the inexorable decline of her ailing mother. With her sister Emma, Shirley toils to sustain their humble household, but it is the specter of her mother's impending death that casts the deepest shadow upon her spirit, a despondency palpable to all who encounter her. Employed in a manicure salon frequented by the city's affluent, Shirley's quiet despair catches the eye of Wilfred Templeton, a man of considerable means. Sensing an opportunity, Templeton, after learning of Shirley's maternal woes, proposes a chillingly transactional arrangement: financial salvation for her mother's care in exchange for Shirley's companionship in a sequestered apartment he would provide. Though initially repulsed, the escalating urgency of her mother's condition compels Shirley to capitulate, weaving a delicate fabrication of marriage to Templeton to shield her mother and sister from the scandalous truth. This fragile facade is shattered when James Lowery, Templeton's butler, uncovers the deception, leading to a harrowing attempted assault on Shirley and his subsequent dismissal. Yet, the tranquility is short-lived; Emma's visit, fueled by a desire to meet her sister's 'generous' husband, forces Shirley into a wrenching confession. The revelation, a poison to Emma's conscience, tragically reaches Mrs. Bryson, whose fragile hold on life is irrevocably severed by the perceived dishonor. Devastated, Shirley severs ties with Templeton, seeking anonymity and a new beginning as a cabaret performer. There, the past resurfaces in the form of Lowery's renewed harassment, only to be thwarted by the timely intervention of Harold Templeton, Wilfred's estranged son. A genuine affection blossoms between Shirley and Harold, culminating in their marriage, yet a persistent dread gnaws at Shirley—the fear of her past unearthing itself. This premonition materializes with Harold's reconciliation with his father, Wilfred. The inevitable confrontation, a silent accusation passing between Shirley and Wilfred, forces the truth into the open, shattering Harold's trust and prompting his immediate repudiation of his wife. However, through a profound moment of introspection, Harold's inherent goodness prevails; understanding the selfless, desperate origins of Shirley's 'mistake,' he banishes his father and embraces his wife, offering forgiveness and solace, recognizing that her sacrifice was born not of vice, but of profound filial devotion.

Synopsis

The home of Mrs. Bryson and her two daughters is happy except for the poverty that prevents the girls from sending their sick mother away to the mountains. Both help to support the household, but it is Shirley who feels the responsibility of her mother's approaching death and her worry is evident to all about her. She is employed in a manicure shop frequented by wealthy men and meets Wilfred Templeton, who invites her to dine with him. He questions her about her dejected air and she tells him of her mother's illness. This is Templeton's opportunity, and he asks her to make a bargain with him. He will give her all the money she needs and in return she is to live with him in an apartment which he will establish for her. Shirley refuses, but when her mother grows worse she yields and leads her mother and her sister to believe that she has married Templeton and Mrs. Bryson is happy. When James Lowery, the butler in Shirley's new home, finds that she is not married to Templeton, he forces his way into her boudoir when she is dressing. With the greatest difficulty Shirley repulses him. She informs Templeton and Lowery is discharged. Everything runs smoothly until Shirley invites her sister to visit her. Emma wants to see this wonderfully generous husband. Shirley is unable to conceal her secret, and Emma wrings a confession from her. The news so preys upon Emma's mind that she is unable to keep it a secret from her mother. Stricken at her child's dishonor, Mrs. Bryson gives up her battle for life. Shirley leaves Templeton and goes to work as a cabaret entertainer. Lowery again forces his attentions upon her. He openly insults her and a young man at a nearby table comes to her rescue. The man is Harold Templeton, "Wilfred's son, who is the "black sheep" of the family, and is living away from home. The acquaintance finally ripens into real affection. The young people are married, but their happiness is clouded by the girl's fear that her husband will discover the truth about her past life. The expected happens when Wilfred Templeton forgives his son and comes to call on him and his bride. Shirley and her husband's father are brought face to face, and their manner accuses them before either makes a confession. Harold turns against his wife. Later, however, his better nature asserts itself, and he drives his father away. Realizing Shirley's mistake was made, not for her own sake, but for her mother's, he forgives her and takes her into his arms.