A Shot in the Night

George, the ten year-old son of Roger Trent, stormily protests against his father's second marriage. Father and son are passionately attached to each other. After the marriage George makes no attempt to conceal his hatred for Laura, his stepmother. After several attempts to conciliate the boy, Mrs. Trent resolves to repay him in his own coin. Trent, torn between his love for the two, views the situation with apprehension. A series of burglaries in the neighborhood fill Laura with alarm. That night Trent is called out of town. In packing his valise the man forgets his revolver, which he leaves lying on the dresser. Laura and George retire immediately after his departure. Trent meets Doctor Blake, with whom he is to make the trip, at the station. The man learns that he has forgotten some important documents. Requesting Blake to wait for him, Trent hastens home. In entering the house he accidentally knocks over a statuette. Laura and George awake with a start. George runs into his step-mother's room and clings to her in terror. Trent remembers that the papers are in his room. He quietly ascends the stairs. Laura hears stealthy footsteps approaching. In terror, the woman shrinks against the dresser, her hand touches the pistol. Seizing the weapon. Laura levels it at the door. Trent slowly opens it. A shot rings out. The husband falls with a cry. Doctor Blake becomes worried when Trent fails to return. The man hastens to the house. He finds Laura and George frantically endeavoring to revive Trent. Blake orders the two from the room. Mother and step-son wait outside while the one whom they love battles with death. During this fearful period arises the bond of sympathy and love which wipes away all barriers of hatred and distrust.