- Hodgson with really remarkable musical talent can get no chance to he recognized to show what he can do. His character lacking the strength needed to balance his genius he becomes discouraged and becomes addicted to drink. His only sympathy he finds in his neighbor, Ella Marvin, who unites a big heart with a splendid voice. Hodgson has written an opera called "The Sword of Damocles," which he knows is a masterpiece and which is dearer to him than his life. Though his heart is thoroughly devoted to Ella, when he finds her one day with his precious manuscript in her hand, singing from it; made forgetful by liquor he plainly shows his anger and wounds her to the quick. This breaks their friendship and the repentant man leaves his quarters for good and becomes a drink-crazed outcast. Winston, who has written some very clever compositions, has been commissioned by the directors of the opera to write them another, to be presented in the near future. He submits one, which is rejected. He tries to spur himself to a better effort, but his mind refuses to travel out of the channels of his past productions. Samuelson writes him that people are beginning to say that he has "run out" and he sees that his rising fame may become blighted in the bud. At this juncture he accidentally meets Hodgson, now a homeless wanderer, but still treasuring the precious manuscript. He befriends him with the food he needs and by chance sees the manuscript and recognizes its value. Plying Hodgson with drink he finally persuades him to sell the manuscript and relinquish all rights of co-authorship. He submits the opera to the directors and it is joyfully accepted. In the meantime Winston has met Ella, became impressed with her and has persuaded Samuelson to give her a chance. Her talents win for her the leading part in the new opera. Critics and producers alike are delighted with the new opera at the dress rehearsal. Winston sees ahead fame beyond any he has ever enjoyed. But the sword of fate is hanging by a thread. Hodgson appears and claims he was defrauded of the opera. Winston attempts to lock him up in his cellar, but the desperate man escapes, appears at the opening performance to assert his rights and Winston dies by his own hand.—Moving Picture World synopsis
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