Argosy All-Story Weekly — "Sea Marauders" — page 100: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

522 ing and got a eyeful. Much to Two- Punch’s amazement, there is only a handful of folks on hand at the studio to witness it. “Most of the big, guys I wanted to get here,’ says Lloyd Lorraine, “ are out of town. But we will run it off, anyway, and see what happens.” The lights go out, and I settle back to see what sort of a Douglas Fair- banks my playmate has turned out to be. For the first five minutes, we get the ‘usual information, to wit: Two-Punch Simpson, Middle Weight Champion of the World—(flash )—in “Whispering Cactus ”—(flash)— Original Story by Willie Sims—(flash) _ ‘and the customary line of time-wasters. Before the first reel was over, several polite snickers could be heard among .the customers. When the second frame flashed on, the snickers increased; and by the time the gem reached its third delirium, the laughs become frequent and lusty. — | “These lads are a gang of low- brows,” confides Two-Punch to me. “The poor saps down know a great Western fillum when they see one. I’ve a good mind to sock some of ‘em on the button!” When it was all over, the customers gave Two-Punch a pleasant smile and walked out briskly. Al except one. He comes up to Mr. Simpson with a sober, businesslike air, and introduces himself as F. Wainwright McNulty, a free-lance film broker. | “With a little more cutting and edit- ing,” says Mr. McNulty, “ I think you will have a pretty fair picture in ‘Whispering Cactus.’ ”’ “ Thanks,” says Two-Punch. “ J am glad there is one guy around who ap- preciates good art when he sees it.” “Of course,” goes on MeNulty, “the fact that none of the other folk seemed interested in your film should make the price very reasonable.” “JT won't take a cent less than one hundred thousand berries for all ARGOSY-ALLSTORY WEEKLY. rights,’ snaps Two-Punch, whilst I near swooned with fright. ‘“ Don’t mind him,” I says, tryimg to save the situation. “He’s only josh- ing. Why—’” 3 “T beg your pardon, Mr. Simpson,” breaks in Lloyd Lorraine, “ but since we have made ‘ Whispering Cactus’ the movie industry has taken a de cided slump. Since Mr. McNulty is the only man interested in the picture, I would frankly suggest that you make an effort to come to terms. Bear in mind, Mr. Simpson, that this is your _ first picture and you can’t expect too much.” “What d’yer offer for the entire rights?’ demands Two-Punch, turning to McNulty. “] will give you ten thousand dol- lars, cash, for the entire rights to the United States and Canada,” replies McNulty, without batting a single eye- brow. My boy friend almost collapses over a chair. “ What,’ he bellers, “ d’yer take me for, a boob?” “Not in the least,” says McNulty. ““T have simply made a bid on your picture, and if you don’t care to ac- cept it, that is your privilege.” “But it cost me twenty grand to produce!” whinnies Two-Punch. ‘When did you and Captain Kidd quit partnership, hey?” “Well,” says McNulty, “ that is my best offer. If you don’t care to ac- cept it, I will bid you good day.” He sniffs and heads toward the door. “TLasten, brainless,’ I snaps to the champ, “‘ for the luyva common sense, grab it, and charge the balance up to fun, climate, and experience. Quick; call ’im back!’ “Hey, just one moment!” yells Two-Punch to the vanishing bidder. ** I know it’s a outrage, but since I ain’t had much experience in this game, I will accept your offer. And I hope your check ain’t rubber!” . Five days later, I hop out of bed =~ L NE ] — ~ map: == , te Rios ot > ae . Ss: Soi