Chaplin aboard the Olympic bound for England, September 3rd, 1921 (note the pinky ring)

This was Charlie's first trip back to his native country since he left for a second tour of North America with the Fred Karno Company in October 1912. Unlike his marathon, 18-month-long world tour in 1931, Charlie was only away from Hollywood for a month.

Hundreds of well-wishers, including Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford, and members of the press greeted him on the deck of the ship. Given his shy nature, he was a bit uneasy at first.

When Chaplin stepped out on the A deck of the Olympic in front of a battery of moving picture machines he gave an affected start and said to an official of the company: "Gracious, what are these?" When told they were moving picture machines and they would not harm him, the film star appeared relieved and said, "Oh, thanks, so much; I am not afraid."¹

Due to his recent divorce from Mildred Harris, Charlie was naturally asked about his marital plans.*

"Do you intend to marry again," he was asked.

"No, never," he replied. "I am through with that business."

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¹New York Times, September 4th, 1921
*Before Charlie's departure in Los Angeles, his brother, Sydney, famously told press agent, Carlyle Robinson: "For God's sake, don't let him get married!"