The Seventh Commandment

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Compelled to flee the village to escape the wrath of Amos Mitchel, Jennie's husband, Simon Craig deserts his wife and daughter. Mrs. Craig and Dorothy make their home with relatives. Driving his wife forth, Mitchell vows to make Craig pay a terrible price for the wrong he has caused. Years later finds Craig a wealthy man and a candidate for the mayoralty. Mitchell, who has kept track of the man, obtains a position as Craig's secretary. Craig is in ignorance concerning Mitchell's identity. As the next step in securing vengeance, the secretary sends for Dorothy, offering her a position as Craig's stenographer. Father and daughter are unaware of their relationship. Jennie drifts into town. Dick Wallace, a reporter who has fallen in love with Dorothy, overhears Jennie tell a companion of her hold over the candidate. He learns that she is blackmailing Craig. In the meantime, Craig, instigated by Mitchell, regards Dorothy with lustful eyes. Wallace investigates Craig's past and learns of what had transpired years before. On the day of his election, Craig, highly excited, drinks heavily. Mitchell gloats over the thought of his approaching triumph. The mayor attempts to make love to Dorothy, but the girl flees to her room and locks the door. Wallace enters the house just as Craig is endeavoring to smash the door. Hurling Mitchell, who attempts to stop him, aside, Wallace goes to Dorothy's aid. Then the reporter tells Craig of his relationship to Dorothy. Horrified, the mayor retreats from the door. Jennie enters the house. The sight of the woman drives Mitchell mad. He shoots her and follows this up by slaying Craig. Wallace overpowers the man who, by this time, is a raving maniac. While the police take Mitchell away, Wallace endeavors to comfort the heart-broken Dorothy.