David Harum

The film unfolds during the Panic of 1893, framing a world of economic strain that colors every deal and whim. Local banker David Harum navigates a string of horse-trading schemes and social maneuvers in his small town. The era’s uncertainty provides the backdrop for much of the comic mischief and brinkmanship.

David Harum travels to New York City to meet aristocratic General Woolsey, who is testing Harum with a balky horse. The General hints at employing John Lennox and gleefully reveals the horse’s balking flaw, hinting at a setup for Harum's loss. Harum realizes he has been used as part of the General's revenge.

Harum buys the balky horse for $100, and the General shouts 'Sold!' only to explain the flaw that will balk when pulling a carriage. The General offers to buy it back for $50, but Harum decides to keep the horse. He also gains Swifty, the black groom, as part of the deal.

Ann Madison, from an aristocratic family, is introduced in Homeville, where her summers are spent and where Harum once taught her to ride. The two share a close, friendly rapport that hints at romance. Lennox’s eventual arrival will intersect this budding relationship.

Harum sells the balky horse to Deacon Perkins, using the purchase as revenge for a past trade where Harum was outmaneuvered. The deal sets up future schemes designed to bring Lennox and Ann closer. The scene also underscores the ongoing running gag of wily bargaining.

John Lennox arrives from New York to work for Harum and immediately makes a positive impression on both Harum and Ann. His integrity and potential as a suitor for Ann are highlighted as the romance in town begins to unfold. Lennox becomes a key player in Harum’s social schemes.

To help Lennox court Ann, Harum buys back the balky horse from Perkins and stages a ride after Church, knowing the horse will balk and give the couple a chance to connect. Ann is aware of the ruse, and the ploy succeeds in sparking their budding romance. The plan blends mischief with genuine affection.

Grateful for Harum’s role in bringing them together, Ann purchases the horse back from him. Lennox remains wary about Ann’s motives and the nature of the deal, but the romance between Lennox and Ann deepens despite the schemes. The exchange reinforces Harum’s influence over local affairs.

Lennox believes Ann was tricked into the arrangement and takes offense that she did not understand his ability to support her. This creates a temporary rift in the romance, as Lennox questions his prospects for marriage without steady means. The tension tests their connection but does not seal it.

Ann learns that the balking horse does not balk when sung to, a discovery that shifts the dynamic and allows the couple to move forward. The singing becomes a practical and comic tool to control the horse’s behavior. The newfound trick helps restore trust between Ann and Lennox.

The horse is entered into a harness race against Deacon Perkins’ horse, with David Harum riding. Lennox wagers his entire savings on the horse, hoping a win will secure his ability to marry Ann. The race becomes the dramatic centerpiece tying the couple’s future to the animal’s performance.

The comedy culminates as David and Ann sing and orchestrate the right music to keep the horse from balking during the race. The running gag of bargaining persists, but both sides acknowledge the shared wits that power their trades. The film also notes the controversial portrayal of Swifty, the groom, a point of modern discussion.