Summary
In a swirling vortex of marital paranoia and mistaken identity, George Conklin, consumed by the green-eyed monster over his wife Virginia’s flirtatious escapades at a seaside retreat, retreats to the urban labyrinth of New York. His quest for a private eye to unravel Virginia’s dalliance with Henry Harding takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a beguiling young woman in his own residence. Initially misidentified by the authorities as the notorious "Philadelphia Mary," a quick-witted George fabricates a narrative of familial expectation, claiming the charming interloper as his long-awaited niece. This impromptu deception sets the stage for Betty McCarthy, as she truly is, to become George's clandestine operative, tasked with infiltrating Virginia's world. As Betty navigates the treacherous waters of her assignment, an unforeseen romance blossoms with Virginia's spirited brother, Billy Kent. Meanwhile, Virginia, stung by her husband's corrosive jealousy, contemplates a drastic escape with Harding, whose true predatory nature – a covetous gaze fixed solely on Virginia's considerable jewels – is shrewdly uncovered by Betty. A dramatic confrontation ensues, culminating in Harding's apprehension following Betty's strategic tip-off to the police regarding the pilfered valuables. The subsequent union of Betty and Billy seals a new chapter of happiness. Yet, the narrative offers another twist: Harding’s liberty is swiftly restored when Betty, in a surprising confession, admits to having swapped the precious stones for mere confections. This revelation precipitates a tender reconciliation between the Conklins, and in a final, heartwarming disclosure, Betty confirms her genuine lineage as George’s actual niece, thus tying together the tangled threads of suspicion, love, and familial bond.
Synopsis
Jealous of the attention his wife Virginia receives at a seaside resort and desiring to know how far her flirtation with Henry Harding has gone, George Conklin returns to New York to hire a detective. He finds a pretty girl in his house and the police identify her as criminal Philadelphia Mary but George tells them that she is his niece that he was expecting; when the police are gone, George learns that her name is Betty McCarthy and makes her agree to spy on Virginia. Betty becomes friendly with Virginia and falls in love with Virginia's ardent brother Billy Kent. Incensed at her husband's jealousy, Virginia plans to elope with Harding--who, Betty discovers, is only interested in Virginia's jewels. After the police arrest Harding when Betty tells them that he has the Conklins' jewels, Betty and Billy marry. Harding is released when Betty confesses she substituted candy for the jewels, the Conklins are reconciled, and Betty reveals that she really is George's niece.
Review Excerpt
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Unraveling the Entanglements of The Little Intruder: A Silent Film's Enduring Charm
In the vibrant tapestry of early 20th-century cinema, where narratives often hinged on grand gestures, moral quandaries, and the burgeoning exploration of human psychology, The Little Intruder emerges as a delightful, if often overlooked, gem. This 1919 silent film, penned by the talented duo of Clara Beranger and H.S. Sheldon, delves into the perennial themes of marital suspicion, mistaken identity, an..."
