The Cry of Erin (1916)

• 19%
• 1916
• Drama
• Francis Ford
• Francis Ford
• Charles Manley
• Jack Holt

During the early years of English rule in Ireland the peasants were much oppressed. Whenever a peasant was found he was hauled up for trial, and there were many who were killed "accidentally" while being captured. Among the bravest and best of the boys in the coming generation was Shemus O'Brien. He had been chased repeatedly by the soldiers, but his daring and quick wit had saved him from capture. Next to his God, Shemus adored his old father and mother. Biddy, a girl of the neighborhood, was his sweetheart. Father Malone thought much of the boy and frequently assisted him with his good counsel. After hiding out for some time Shemus pays a visit to his parents, and Biddy, learning of his arrival, hurries to bid him welcome. The soldiers learn of his arrival and hasten to try and capture him. Shemus is warned in time and makes a thrilling escape. The squire and son are on the road and Shemus, borrowing the brilliant coat of the son, leads his pursuers astray. Some time later, thinking all is safe, he returns home. The soldiers, however, had anticipated this, and creeping up to the house, capture the wily lad. He is sentenced to hang and preparations are made for the execution. His old parents are frantic and it takes all the persuasive powers of Father Malone to hold his people down and keep them from making a disturbance which would result in the death of a number of them. The day of the execution arrives. Biddy and Father Malone are the only ones allowed to see the prisoner. Biddy exchanges clothes with the priest and succeeds in releasing Shemus' hands. When he is brought out he makes his escape, the soldiers being hindered in their pursuit by the peasants. In the scuffle Father Malone loses his top hat, of which he is justly proud, and the air is filled with his lamentations. Biddy denounces the soldiers and tells them that if they expect to have a hanging they will have to utilize one of their own members. Some time later, when the affair has quieted down, Shemus, his parents and Biddy take passage at Cork for the wonderful land of America, where they live to enjoy peace and happiness.