The Devil to Pay 2020

As Willie Hale (Jayson Warner Smith) returns to his native England after leaving behind the unpredictability of East Africa, he makes a bold choice to invest his dwindling fortune in a devoted canine companion. His affluent father, Lord Leeland (Charles Black), is distinctly frustrated with Willie’s string of unsuccessful ventures but concedes to grant him £100 for personal use.

Upon reconnecting with his past love, the illustrious theater star Mary Crayle (Danielle Deadwyler), Willie also encounters family friend and heiress Dorothy Hope (Catherine Dyer). He delights both her and his sister Susan with an exciting day at the Derby, where he strikes it rich by placing a bet on a remarkable 50-to-1 longshot. It is during this event that Dorothy becomes captivated by Willie’s charming disposition, prompting her to break off her engagement to the financially troubled Grand Duke Paul.

Though initially reluctant to embrace Dorothy’s growing affections, Willie ultimately decides to propose, albeit on the condition that he can completely sever ties with Mary. Dorothy agrees, insisting that he promise never to reignite their romance. However, Willie finds himself at a loss when it comes to communicating this decision via letter or phone. Instead, he resolves to wait outside Mary’s theater, hoping to face her directly.

Inside Mary’s home, Willie finally gathers the courage to deliver the news in person. Meanwhile, Dorothy’s father takes matters into his own hands and hires a detective agency to keep a meticulous watch over Willie. He cunningly orchestrates a phone call between Dorothy and Mary, which results in Wille’s heart being shattered.

Refusing to be defeated, Willie takes control of the situation by rejecting the £5,000 check from Dorothy. Instead, he decides to send financial assistance to Grand Duke Paul, who is grappling with hardship. After hearing of this generous act, Dorothy feels a mix of delight and disillusionment. As tensions rise between them, Willie and Dorothy ultimately find a path to reconciliation just before he embarks on his journey to New Zealand, where he hopes to fulfill his ambition of starting a sheep farm.

In an unexpected turn of events, Mr. Hope offers to acquire a farm in England on Willie’s behalf, much to Lord Leeland’s delight, anticipating yet another venture to potentially falter, courtesy of Mr. Hope’s substantial fortune.