The Tramp Dog

• 1907
• Other, Drama

A stray dog is seen wandering through the streets of a big city and showing plainly by his actions that he is looking for a friend or a home, either of which he cannot apparently find, but instead encounters a gang of boys who proceed to torment him and tie a can to his tail after the usual habit of boys out for fun. A little girl appears on the scene and intercedes with the boys to release the dog, which she takes home with her. On reaching home the child proudly introduces her new found friend, and although her father and mother are not very enthusiastic they at least consent to let the dog stay. Soon afterwards when our little heroine is playing in front of the house her attention is attracted by an Italian organ-grinder and a monkey, with whose performance she is very much pleased and follows them, quite forgetful of her promise to stay where her mother told her, until she finds herself lost and alone in a strange part of the city. All search for the missing child seems to be unavailing and her father's distress can be better imagined than described. The dog, however, appears to comprehend the situation and the first time the door is opened he rushes out and disappears on his quest for the child. Taking up the scent he follows her footsteps, and although oftentimes losing the trail, carefully works along until at last his patience is rewarded by the discovery of his little mistress. She starts in glad surprise and the pleasure which the dog exhibits on finding the child makes an interesting picture. The next scene shows the grief-stricken father and mother at home longing for news of their little one, when suddenly the door flies open and the child and dog rush in together. The former is instantly clasped in her father's arms, while the dog, full of joy at the family reunion, testifies in every way possible short of speech his appreciation of the happy ending of an apparently serious adventure.