The Delayed Letter
Directed by Ralph InceRejected by Mabel Hinton, Bob Legrande goes west on business with Raymond Condon, his partner and successful rival for Mabel's love. About midnight on the Special Western Limited, Condon steps out on the rear platform of the Pullman to take the air. He is followed by Legrande, who diabolically attacks him and tries to throw him off the fast-moving train. A violent struggle ensues and Condon, in self-defense, throws Legrande over the railing. This last act is witnessed by a young country couple, who are driving along in a buggy and hurry to the aid of Legrande. The train is stopped and backed up to the spot. Legrande, unconscious, is carried to a nearby farmhouse, followed by the passengers. A physician is summoned. Condon is taken to the county jail. Legrande, believing he is going to die, writes Mabel Hinton a confession of his crime, writing on the envelope, "In case of my death to be delivered. If I recover, to be returned to me unopened." The doctor takes the letter, agreeing to carry out instructions. The doctor leaving next day, for a six months' trip abroad, the letter is packed in his trunk, with his coat and forgotten. Months later, in Cairo, he comes upon it and believing Legrande to be dead, forwards it. Condon, in the meantime, is tried for attempted murder, the charge being pressed by Legrande who has recovered. Found guilty, the letter arrives just in time to change the verdict of the jury and save the innocent Condon from condemnation.
