WITH THE SYMPATHY AND BEST WISHES OF JESS FREEMAN.  I SHOULD
     LIKE TO KNOW, A YEAR FROM NOW, HOW YOU ARE GETTING ON.

30—­Back to 28—­

Jess hands the photograph to Steve.  He glances at what is written and looks at her as if longing to speak, but merely takes her hand and looks his great gratitude, and determination to atone for the past, urged on by her encouragement.  Then he turns to door and she follows him out of room.

31—­Front of ranch, same as 5—­

Steve mounted ready to ride away.  He holds photograph in left hand, still bandaged.  He puts out right hand again and takes Jess’s, in a parting handshake.  Then he puts photo in inner pocket of vest, and with a last word and a smile of gratitude, rides quickly away.  Jess watches him ride out of sight, then sits on steps and looks in direction he has gone, starting to weep softly.

Leader—­

     A YEAR LATER.

32—­Kitchen, same as 8—­

Jess laying table for meal.  Norma assisting her (or, if a young child is used, playing).  Freeman enters from outer door, as if just returning from town.  He carries bundles, etc.  Puts these down, takes letters from pocket, hands two to Jess.  She looks at one and lays it carelessly on table.  After a glance at the other she signifies, “It must be from him!” Freeman and child do not observe her expression.  She opens letter and reads: 

On screen.  Letter—­

     Dear Miss Freeman,

I am writing this from Winslow—­it’s as near to your home as I care to go.  But I’ve got a good position in San Francisco, and thank God I’m living honestly where nobody knows my past record.  I’d give anything to see you again.  Do you think your father would bring you on a visit?

     Gratefully yours,

     Stephen Hammond.

Back to scene.

Jess’s face lights up gladly.  She goes to her father and gives him letter, which he reads.  He looks at her narrowly.  She hangs her head in some confusion.  He stands for a moment in deep thought.  Then he takes Jess’s hands and, as she looks straight into his eyes, he nods his head, draws her to him and kisses her.  Norma comes up and puts her arms round her father as he and Jess stand there.  Jess kneels and takes Norma in her arms.

CHAPTER VI

THE MECHANICAL PREPARATION OF THE SCRIPT

Any successful photoplaywright will testify that the proper preparation of the photoplay script has much to do with its being accepted, especially if more than the mere synopsis is offered.