In the Line of Duty

This four-reel military drama from the Sherry Feature Film Company was set in British India. While her bacteriologist husband devotes himself to his work, young Alice is consumed with boredom. Thus, the heroine is more than susceptible to the charms of a handsome Army officer, accepting the man’s invitation to a fancy-dress ball. Alice has no trouble becoming center of attention at the affair, incurring the wrath of her husband. When Alice casts all caution to the winds and begins performing a wild Spanish dance, it is too much for hubby to bear. But before he can do or say anything, he is summoned to the Interior to improve the sanitary conditions of a native camp. Meanwhile, Alice hopes that her flirtation with the officer will blossom into a full-fledged romance. Unfortunately for her, the officer, who has just returned from the infected camp, has been struck down by illness. Upon his return, the husband is all for allowing his rival to die of his affliction, but Alice insists that he “do his duty” and save the man’s life. Out of gratitude, the officer promises to end his affair with Alice — but not before allowing Alice herself to make a final choice between her husband and her lover.