The story
“Morley Crandon, a young scientist, is anxious to undertake certain explorations which he believes will bring him fame and fortune. He receives a letter informing him that unless the sum of $2,000 be raised immediately the expedition cannot sail. Crandon goes to Risen Jones, a wealthy old man, and a patron of scientific enterprises, to appeal for a loan. Knowing that old Jones is a good deal of a miser, he shows him a locket containing a picture of Helen, his little girl, and explains that he particularly wishes to put through the expedition for her sake. The old man’s heart is touched, and he gives Crandon the money. The young scientist, on leaving the house, happens to drop the locket. Jones finds it. Knowing how much it is prized, the old man tries to overtake the scientist and return it. Half blind, and no longer sure-footed, Jones stumbles over a high cliff and is killed. The expedition sails. Several days later, Jones’ body is found. Clutched tight in his hand is the locket containing the picture of little Helen. The townspeople, believing that Crandon has murdered the old man for the money he is known to have received from him, turn against his wife and child. Helen and her mother are ostracized. Many months pass. At last Crandon returns. He is overwhelmed when he learns how the town has treated his family. The police arrest him without more ado.
“Meanwhile, little Helen, playing at the foot of the cliff, comes upon the worn, waterproof pocketbook of Jones. Among other papers it contains a note given by the scientist for the two thousand dollars. This document completely exonerates Crandon from the charge. The community sees now that old Jones’ death was purely accidental. The neighbors beg forgiveness of Helen, her mother and Crandon.”
Summary from Reel Life · 2 October 1915
