Taking Chances (1922)

Richard Talmadge, a book salesman, not only sells James Arlington, a capitalist, a volume of his firm's latest novel, but also talks himself into a position as private secretary to the millionaire. He falls in love with his daughter, whose hand is sought by Jose Borquez. The latter is scheming with a number of financiers to gain control of a corporation headed by Arlington. He plans a cruise and invites Arlington and his daughter to go along as his guests. At a ball prior to the departure of the party, Dick overhears a conspiracy in which Borquez plays a leading part. It is planned to keep Arlington away from New York so that the 'bulls' can wash him out financially. Richard is kidnapped, but after a series of adventures he not only overtakes the party but subjects Borquez to a severe punishment and wins the hand of Miss Arlington.