When Fate Decrees (1913)

Dick Lowell, a young millionaire, proposes to Jane Hallowell, only to learn that she has given her promise to James Douglas, Unknown to Jane, Douglas is an adventurer and lives by his wits. Brokenhearted, Lowell goes on a hunting trip and meets with a serious accident. He is brought home and the doctor informs him he has but a few days to live. Lowell sends for Jane and asks her to make his dying hours happy by becoming his wife. He explains that it is his last request and will enable her to enjoy his fortune when he has gone. Jane, in perplexity, seeks the advice of Douglas, who, to her amazement, heartily agrees. The girl is blinded by the love she bears the adventurer and consents to the marriage, which takes place at the injured man's bedside. In the meantime Lucy Randall, who has assisted Douglas in various enterprises, demands money. Douglas puts her off by assuring her that she shall want for nothing, once he gains control of Lowell's fortune. Through Jane's tender care Lowell begins to improve and his recovery is assured. Instead of being glad, he is in despair. Jane appreciates his predicament and realizes the depth of his love. Finally she determines to renounce any allegiance to Douglas and her course is made easier when she sees further indications of his intimacy with Lucy.