[3] Disliking legal work, Francis joined a stock theater company for which he played bit parts, and was baggage master and property man.

He eventually came under contract with a touring company headed by Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Kendall, acting in leading roles in England, India, South Africa, and the United States.

He was in India for a four-year tour of duty with the British Royal Horse Artillery, and He was a nurse with American forces during the Spanish-American War.

[3] Although Francis tried farming after his service as a nurse, he returned to acting and appeared in some plays, including musical productions in which he sang as a baritone.

[5] His funeral was held at St. Athanasius Episcopal Church in Los Angeles, and his remains cremated.