Motion Picture Story Magazine (Feb-Jul 1911)

A PLEASANT AFTERNOON. 125 are particular in your choice of plays, how many dramas are there in which there is not something sensational or a trifle loose — not to say suggestive — in some part? There is as much, if not more, to be shunned at the theater than at the picture shows/' "You are a warm champion, Lottie, but I am far from being convinced." "Might I ask who are the people who disapprove of them?" "Certainly. Mrs. Brooks—" "Ha ! Clara, there's a reason ; Mr. Brooks is assistant editor of a paper which has taken issue with a contemporary on that subject merely for the sake of argument and possible increase of circulation." "Well, Mrs. Clement and Mrs. Trott abhor them." "Mrs. Trott's brother is her main support; he is a theatrical manager and opposed to the Motion Pictures because they affect the profits of theaters to no little extent, as people of limited means can go to see the pictures frequently, where they can enjoy several little playlets in one session for a trifling fee, whereas the cost of admission to the theater would mean a strain and possible curtailing of some other pleasure or necessity. Ah ! Clara, if you only knew what a boon these places are to some people you would feel more charitably disposed toward them." "But—" "Wait, Clara, I want to tell you about Mr. Clement. Did you know that he tried to open one some time ago but for some cause or another he was unable to secure a license? Since then he has been their bitter enemy. You see, I am more posted on these matters than you are. Besides I am naturally observant and can read between the lines very readily." Her sister making no reply, Lottie continued : "Clara Vernon, will you not unbend enough to come with me just once? Once will not hurt and if you see anything wrong about them I will bow to your superior judgment and ac knowledge my error. Do not shake your head so emphatically ! As a favor, Clara, won't you come with me ?" Mrs. Vernon did not answer at once, being a prey to conflicting emotions; her objections were so deep-rooted that she felt it almost impossible to grant her sister's request, vet. being thorly honest she felt that it would be right, and at least a courtesy due her sister, to give the matter a fair test. Finally with some misgivings, she agreed and they put on their wraps. A few blocks away they came upon one with a very attractive and inviting exterior. Before securing tickets Aunt Lottie looked over the list in the lobby which, she explained, was a precaution she always took when she had Carrie with her fin that way she could avoid anything that might savor of the sensational. Evidently she was satisfied and they entered, Mrs. Vernon following her sister very sheepishly. It happened that the picture then being shown was so irresistibly funnv that, in spite of herself, Mrs/ Vernon was compelled to laugh, and her animosity decreased somewhat. A gentlemanly usher placed them comfortably and the first number after they were seated was a series of views of foreign countries and their industries. Then followed views of the aeroplanes, after which there was an illustrated song nicely rendered by a good baritone voice, the accompanying pictures being sweet and pretty. Then came a little sketch of a lost child being rescued from the snow by a man who took it to his humble home and cared for it until discovered by the child's father. The story was simple, good and wholesome. Others followed, some sad, some gay. but tho she had come prepared to find fault. Mrs. Vernon saw nothing to warrant upholding her earlier convictions. There was flashed upon the canvas the announcement that on the next day the Boy's Colony and views of Deep Sea Fishing would be shown, and Mrs. Vernon wondered if it were