The Secret Kingdom (1917)

Episode 1: "Land of the Intrigue" Taking advantage of his monarch's lack of funds. Prime Minister Simond of Alania, who secretly aspires to the throne, induces him to pass an obnoxious tax bill. Then, with his sovereign unpopular, Simond feels it a good time to strike, so he causes the assassination of the King, Phillip II and Queen Alize, while they are hunting in the royal forests. Capt. Barreto, Commander of the Alanian palace guard, and a loyal friend of Phillip II, realizes Simond's dastardly plan, and when he hears him issue an order for the apprehension of the little Crown Prince, the only obstacle remaining in his path to the throne, he dashes off with him to America, with the aid of Juan, a fisherman. Barreto makes arrangements with Juan to keep in communication with his brother, Lieut. Jarreto. Simond proclaims himself Prince Regent, and with a bold bid for popularity, rescinds the obnoxious tax bill, his first official act.