The Passing of Wolf MacLean

Summary

In a morally ambiguous, dusty town, Bert Granger, a man ensnared by his own vices, presides over a saloon where his children, Benny and the enchanting Alice, perform for the patrons. One fateful evening, a mysterious figure, The Stranger, intervenes in a drunken brawl, earning respect and sparking curiosity. Drawn to Alice's charms, The Stranger engages her in conversation, only to witness Bert's downfall in a rigged card game, losing the saloon's deed. When a notorious bandit, Wolf Maclean, is mentioned, The Stranger's striking resemblance sets him up for a hasty execution. However, Parson Dan Williams's unexpected confession and ultimate sacrifice clear The Stranger's name, leading to a reformed Bert, a budding partnership between Bert and Benny, and a romance between The Stranger and Alice.

Synopsis

Addicted to heavy gambling and strong alcohol, Bert Granger owns a saloon in which his children, Benny and pretty Alice, entertain the patrons. One night, The Stranger interferes in a drunken quarrel and becomes involved in a bitter fight, from which he emerges victorious. He is strongly attracted to Alice, and he strikes up a conversation while, at the gambling table, her father is being cheated in a crooked card game and loses the deed to the saloon. When a reward is posted for Wolf Maclean, The Stranger, who resembles the description given of the notorious bandit, is arrested. The gamblers arrange for a quick hanging, but Parson Dan Williams saves The Stranger by announcing that he himself is Wolf Maclean and that the gamblers are his confederates in crime. Before the astonished populace can arrest the gamblers, the parson is killed by one of their vengeful number. The Stranger is cleared and wins Alice; Bert Granger reforms and opens a general store, with Benny as his partner.