The Champion of Lost Causes (1925)

In search of material for an article, Loring an author, visits a gambling resort run by Zanten. There he notices Joseph Wilbur, who is acting strangely and is later murdered. Peter Charles is accused of the murder, and Loring, who secretly loves Peter's daughter, Beatrice, sets out to clear Peter's name. Loring goes to Zanten for help and advice, becoming involved with a gang of thugs who make several attempts on his life. Loring finally discovers that Zanten himself (who is actually Beatrice's unworthy fiancé, Dick Sterling, in disguise) is the real murderer of Wilbur. Beatrice's father is freed, and Beatrice and Loring are wed.