The Keeper of the Bees

I am 77 years old. I saw this film as a young girl and still remember scenes from the film. It surely impressed me. I especially remember the young man at the hospital and his decision to leave and as he walked along the highway. I also remember him as he approached the bee keepers home and what happened after. It was the whole story, though, which I enjoyed. I understand that another movie was made with this title. I have not seen the movie, but the hero in that movie, I understand, is a disappointed artist. I liked this one because my heart went out to the soldier. My brother-in-law was injured in WWII and had a difficult time with the treatment available to him from the Army after his discharge. I think that a statement regarding the treatment of veterans is important, though, of course, it has improved since the 1920's. I wonder if the veterans of today get a more thoughtful treatment. It might be good as a preliminary opening to view the current treatment available to veterans, whether it is good treatment or not.

World War hero James Lewis MacFarlane, tired of being shunted from one government hospital to another for a wound that will not heal, runs away when he learns that he has but a year to live. He is befriended by The Bee Master, who is ill and soon dies. Jamie inherits half of the estate and apiary, with the other half going to "Little Scout," an 11-year-old girl who dresses as a boy.

This is one of Clara Bow's "lost films". Sadly many silent films are considered lost today. If there was a screening of this 1925 version with Clara Bow or if someone knows of a copy of this film, please contact me at