Carson, twelve years old, studying telegraphy, picking at instrument, following instructions in book. Mother enters and scolds, making him study school-books. Dissolve back to—
Scene 6. Wharf; as in 2.
Carson goes off to follow up inspiration.
[The subtitle is here inserted before Scene 2 to prepare the audience for the break in the action. While it says that Carson is destitute, the action of the scene carries the explanation still further. Don’t let your subtitle spoil the scene by telling too much. By dissolving the other scenes, that is, narrowing the lens so that they “fade” in and out, the audience knows that they represent Carson’s thoughts. An abrupt change of scene would mystify the audience. In practice the director may decide to use double exposure for these scenes, but it is best for the author to leave these special effects to the producer’s discretion.]
Scene 7.
Exterior Western Union city office.
Carson comes out of office with long tickets in hand. Pauses to register, “Thank God!” and happiness. Exits.
[To “register” means to convey a certain feeling to the audience. The long tickets let the spectator know that Carson is going a great distance, without the necessity of an abrupt subtitle stating the fact.]
Scene 8.
Interior Rocky Mountain despatch-office.