A Convict's Sacrifice on AllMovie

Biograph's The Convict's Sacrifice was lensed by D. W. Griffith on location at Fort Lee, New Jersey. Released from prison, a convict (Henry B. Walthall, in his first Griffith film) is shunned by society. Unexpectedly, he is befriended by a common laborer, whereupon the convict swears eternal devotion to his benefactor. Later on, the convict lands back in jail but is able to make a quick escape, hiding out in the home of his friend, the laborer. Discovering that his pal has a sick daughter who will die unless medicine is purchased, the convict tries to persuade his friend to turn him in for the reward money. The friend refuses, forcing the convict to deliberately pick a fight, which he has no intention of winning. When the authorities arrive, it appears as though the laborer has subdued the convict, whereupon he is instantly handed a huge reward. Before the laborer can explain what has really happened, the convict has been shot and killed in another escape attempt, nobly taking his secret to the grave. Featured in the cast were such Biograph stalwarts as Linda Arvidson (Mrs. D.W. Griffith) and future comedy king Mack Sennett.