Watch Thirty Days at Hard Labor

A faithful adaptation of O. Henry's short story that was presented in "good comedy spirit" according to one enthusiastic reviewer. In order to gain the father's permission to marry his daughter, the spoiled son from a rich family must work to make his own living. By opening up the story, director Oscar Apfel lost O. Henry's surprise ending even as he retained its sweetness and mixed messages about hard work. This particular print was approved by British censors, underscoring the importance of the British market for Edison profitability in this period.