I’ll Be Yours

Louise Ginglebusher travels from Cobleskill to New York City to pursue a career in show business. She carries hope, navigating a bustling metropolis with dreams of Broadway and fame. This marks the beginning of her dramatic journey in the performing arts.

In a city café, Louise meets Wechsberg, a kindhearted yet gruff waiter who becomes a steadfast ally. They strike up a conversation, and he offers warmth and practical help as she navigates the New York entertainment scene. The friendship sets the tone for her network of supports.

Louise secures work as an usherette at the prestigious Buckingham Music Hall, thanks to Mr. Buckingham, an old family friend. The job gives her access to the upper circles and the chance to encounter influential people. It also begins her exposure to professional and romantic entanglements.

When a persistent man harasses Louise, she distracts him by falsely claiming that Wechsberg is her husband. The tactic buys her time and protects her reputation in public spaces. It also strengthens her alliance with Wechsberg, who becomes more involved in her social circle.

Wechsberg invites Louise to accompany him to an upscale social gathering at the Savoy Ritz the next night. This invitation thrusts her deeper into high-society settings and introduces the complex dynamics with influential men. The plan promises new opportunities and potential dangers.

Louise borrows a gown and attends the party, getting past the headwaiter by posing as one of the entertainers. At the event, she mingles with the host crowd and gains access to prominent figures. The social atmosphere becomes a crucial stage for her ambitions.

The host, J. Conrad Nelson, is captivated by Louise after her performance and offers to star her in a Broadway musical. His interest is both professional and personal, highlighting the fine line between opportunity and flirtation in show business. This moment marks a turning point in her career prospects.

To against Nelson's obvious advances, Louise tells him she is married, masking her true status to remain focused on professional prospects. Nelson escalates his offer by proposing to buy her out of the marriage with payment to her supposed husband. The deceit complicates the moral landscape of the story.

Taking advantage of the ruse, Louise hands Nelson the business card that George Prescott had given her and tells Nelson that George is her husband. The lie creates a dangerous web of deception involving both Louise and George. Nelson uses this information to manipulate the situation for his own aims.

Nelson visits George Prescott in his shabby storefront law office and offers him a position as the legal representative for his company. George is initially suspicious of Nelson's motives but is drawn in by the chance to work for a powerful employer. The encounter sets the stage for a clash between integrity and opportunism.

Louise persuades George to shave off his old-man beard, revealing a handsome, younger look beneath. The transformation alters how others perceive him and deepens his connection with Louise. It marks a physical change that accompanies the shifting power dynamics between the couple.

A moonlit stroll provides a romantic setting for George to propose marriage to Louise. The walk symbolizes a new, hopeful chapter beneath the bright lights of the city. Their betrothal closes the early arc of the story and underscores their evolving relationship.