In 'A Modern Invention' Charley when bringing a present to his beloved one is hired by mistake by the girl's father who owns a restaurant. Because he does not belong to any union the other workers feel furious against him and leave. Charley becomes a 'blackleg' and invents a machine that can cook, serve the dishes and clean the tables with the help of its articulated arms. All in vain: the beloved one is promised to another person.