The Hate That Withers (1914)

• 65%
• 1914
• Drama
• Robert G. Vignola
• Alice Hollister
• Harry F. Millarde
• John Mackin

Spurned by Iola Neville, George Judson vows to ruin the happiness of the woman and Jack Worthington, the man she marries. Impelled by his bitter hatred, Judson concentrates all his energy to bring this about. Jack soon discovers the shallowness of his wife's nature. Bitter quarrels arise. Meanwhile, Judson secures the aid of Celeste Valdane, an adventuress who is madly in love with him. The woman promises to ensnare Jack. Her task is easy. Iola, attending a garden party, comes upon Jack with his arms about Celeste. Angered, the foolish woman engages in a violent flirtation with Malden, one of her husband's business associates. Jack learns of this and attacks Malden. The breach between husband and wife widens daily. Sure that she has lost Jack's love, Iola develops a genuine affection for him. She strives in vain to win him back. Shortly afterward, her child is born. Parental influence has had its effect. Jack shrinks from the twisted lifeless form in horror. Misery humbles Iola's pride. She calls upon Celeste. The wife's pleas soften the woman's heart. When Judson calls an hour later, Celeste informs him of what has occurred. Judson has repented of his heartlessness. Shortly afterward Jack comes to see Celeste and is thunderstruck when informed that she is about to wed Judson. Having given up all hope, Iola determines to end her existence. Jack enters the room just as she raises the pistol to her head. Striking her arm, Jack causes the shot to go wild. As the two stare at each other, the realization that both have sinned dawns upon them. Thev resolve to start life anew.