55. The Count (1916)

Mutual 1916-17

Synopsis

Charlie, a tailor's assistant is dismissed for incompetence. His boss finds a note from a Count declining the invitation to a masquerade party thrown by a wealthy heiress and decides to attend in disguise. Charlie meanwhile has gone to see his friend the cook and is dodging the butler at the heiress's back door. In the process he constantly encounters an over-ripe cheese that the cook is trying to dispose of. Charlie encounters his old boss who owns up to his impersonation and suggests that Charlie acts as his secretary, but Charlie gets there first and presents himself as the count. Charlie develops his own style of etiquette over dinner, as soup, spaghetti and watermelon present their own unique challenges. On the dance floor the rivalry with the ex-boss for the heiress continues through a two-step, a tango, and a country dance, before the real count arrives and calls the police. A chase ensues from which Charlie extricates himself and the boss is fingered for the crime.

chaplin_credits

Cast:

Charles Chaplin (Tailor's Apprentice)

Edna Purviance (Miss Moneybags, the Heiress)

Eric Campbell (The Tailor)

Leo White (The Count)

May White (Large Lady)

Charlotte Mineau (Mrs Moneybags)

Albert Austin (Guest)

Stanley Sanford (Guest)

John Rand (Guest)

James T. Kelley ( Butler)

Leota Bryan (Young Girl)

Loyal Underwood (Small Guest)

Eva Thatcher (Cook)

Frank J. Coleman (Policeman /Guest in Pierrot costume)

? Henry Bergman

Released:

4 September 1916

Length:

2.000 ft

Other titles:

Almost a Gentleman.