The theatre of science; a volume of progress and achievement in the motion picture industry (1914)

of^ciente 39 yet in sight — and the independent producers divided into two groups, now comprising the Mutual and Universal companies. Both are developing to tremendous proportions. The Universal is controlled absolutely by four or five men who started in 1908 in a small way. As matters stand, Carl Laemmle appears to be in control, and the consensus of opinion is that he not only will remain in control, but that such a final outcome of the prolonged strife is desired by those who have the welfare of the industry at heart. While the Mutual is also owned by a group of progressive film men who started around 1908 and are now wealthy and potent, this is a corporation with its stock widely distributed, though it is stated that an effort is being made to purchase the smaller holdings of investors which may well be based on fact, as the Mutual preferred stock pays 7 per cent, and the common 12 per cent, annually. In April, 1914, the quarterly earnings were around $125,000, which indicates a half million a year. When the division of the independent producers was accomplished, David Horsley cast his fortunes with the Universal, and I am tempted to quote the latter verbatim as to some interesting film history anent these two groups of men who are now occupying the center of the stage in this branch of the amusement field: "The class of men now in control of the film business were always ready to take a long chance legally and otherwise. They were all individualists who do not work well together," writes Mr. Horsley, in a letter to the author. " 'Lucky' Laemmle, 'Foxy' Powers, 'Erratic' Swanson, 'Suave' Brulatour, 'Road-Roller' Baumann, and myself were thrown in one basket, and the cover put