The Fiddle and the Fan

• Watchlist

Opens in the apartments of a noted 'cellist while he is preparing to leave for the theater, where he is to give an exhibition of his art. During the preparations, which are very hurried, his servant breaks the end pin of his instrument. No time can be spared for careful repairs, so the end pin is bound with a piece of string, a part of which is left dangling from the instrument. The next scene is the assembly room of the theater, showing the audience growing impatient because of the delayed artist. It becomes intensely warm and in response to many grumblings the management bring a large ventilator to the stage. The fan is immediately put into service, so that when the 'cello player finally arrives the crowd is again contented. As he steps to the footlights the long cord upon his 'cello becomes entangled in the arms of the fan. This causes the instrument to whirl. In a short time, to the great joy of the audience, the musician is whirling with his 'cello like a huge peg top. At first the spectators applaud repeatedly, but when they realize the man's predicament they seek to assist him. By now he is whirling straight out from the 'cello, and because of the great speed he begins to elongate. The manager tries to help but is swept from his feet, as are a number of firemen who have been called.