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diff --git a/13006-0.txt b/13006-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e2e7cee --- /dev/null +++ b/13006-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,7917 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13006 *** + +PAUL KAUVAR; OR, ANARCHY + + + + +[Illustration: STEELE MACKAYE] + + + + +STEELE MACKAYE + +(1844-1894) + + +When one realizes the sociological purpose behind Steele Mackaye's +"Paul Kauvar; or, Anarchy," it is interesting to note how inefficient +the old form of drama was to carry anything more than the formal +romantic fervour. Compared with John Galsworthy's treatment in +"Strife" and "Justice," it makes one glad that realism came and washed +away all the obscuring claptrap of that period. Daly, Boucicault, and +their generation were held firmly in its grip; they could not get +away from it, and they were justified in their loyalty to it by the +insistent claim "The Two Orphans" and "The Lady of Lyons" had upon +the public. All the more credit, therefore, that Bronson Howard, David +Belasco, and James A. Herne escaped it; had the latter completely +freed himself of melodrama, his plays would be better known to-day, +better capable of revival, because of the true greatness of their +simple realistic patches. + +But where Mackaye vitalized the old style was in the vigour of his +treatment. He loved the large scene, the mob movement; and he worked +with a big brush. As Nym Crinkle, the popular New York _World_ +dramatic critic of the day, wrote: "Whatever else he may be, [he] is +not a 'lisping hawthorne bud'! He doesn't embroider such napkins as +the 'Abbé Constantin', and he can't arrange such waxworks as 'Elaine'. +He can't stereoscope an emotion, but he can incarnate it if you give +him people enough." + +Mackaye's mind was large, resourceful, daring--both in the opinions +it upheld, and the practical theatrical innovations it introduced +into the theatre, like the double stage for the little Madison +Square playhouse, in New York, which was the precursor of such modern +paraphernalia as came later with the foreign revolving stages. +He always stood on the threshold of modernism, advocating those +principles which were to fructify in the decades to follow him. Such +pioneer spirit was evident in his ardent advocacy of Delsarte methods +of acting; his own work as an actor was coloured and influenced by the +master whose pupil he became in the early years of his career. When +one recalls the methods of Wallack, and his shy approach toward +anything which was "natural," it seems very advanced to hear Mackaye +echoing the Delsarte philosophy. This advocacy was nowhere better +demonstrated than when, at a breakfast given him at the New York +Lotos Club, he talked on the rationale of art for two hours, and held +spell-bound the attention of Longfellow, Bryant, Louis Agassiz, James +J. Fields, E.P. Whipple, Edwin Booth and others. He once said: + + A man to be a true actor must not only possess the power to + portray vividly the emotions which in any given situation + would be natural to himself, but he must study the character + of the man whom he impersonates, and then act as that man + would act in a like situation. + +Mackaye's devotion to Delsarte was manifest in the many practical +ways he aided his teacher; he was rewarded by being left most of his +master's manuscripts. This passionate interest in the technique of +acting not only enriched his own work, but, in 1872, prompted him to +open a Delsarte house (the St. James Theatre), and later interested +him in a school of acting. Mackaye studied at the École des Beaux Arts +and the Conservatoire, in Paris, having as an instructor at the +latter institution M. Regnier. On his way back to America, Tom Taylor +persuaded him to attempt _Hamlet_ in London, at the Crystal +Palace. This essayal met with success. It also opened the way for +collaboration with Tom Taylor in the writing of "Arkwright's Wife" and +"Clancarty," and with Charles Reade of "Jealousy." At this time also +he commenced a dramatization of George Eliot's "Silas Marner." + +There were no half-way measures about Mackaye; things of the theatre +and principles of the theatre caught and held his interest. At the +very last of his life, while he was at work on his "Spectatorus," +which foreran the American idea of a Hippodrome, and which might have, +in years to come, happily housed his son Percy's "Caliban," he was +at the same time attempting to combine with it an educational aspect +which would lift it above the mere spectacular. The symbolical notes +which he handed his son--who was then a mere boy--for the writing of +a Chorus, show the profound approach he took to all his work. Such +seriousness is one of the consuming traits of Percy, whose sense of +humour is probably better developed than that of his father, and whose +sway of literary expression is fuller. + +For none of Steele Mackaye's dramas were written with any idea of +being read. They were all constructed by one fully alive to the +theatre and its demands. In view of this, it is surprising how well +"Paul Kauvar" flows in type. The minor editorial changes made for this +edition by Mr. Percy Mackaye are based on several manuscripts, and +the result is the first authentic text of the play. Steele Mackaye was +always gripped in fascination by mob psychology, always eager to write +of the Reign of Terror. The version here used is the mature one, given +its première at Buffalo, New York, May 30, 1887. But Mr. Percy Mackaye +is authority for the statement that while his father was studying with +Delsarte, in Paris, he became enamoured of the Revolution, and there +are two manuscripts extant, "The Denouncer" and "The Terror," which +indicate that he was chipping away at his theme very early in life. He +recast these sketches in the summer of 1875, while at Brattleborough, +Vt., where he had a cottage on the Bliss Farm, familiar now to Rudyard +Kipling lovers because of the fact that here, too, Kipling wrote, at a +later day. + +The years 1875 and 1887 are the mileposts between which stretched a +long period of successful play-writing by Steele Mackaye. By '75, he +had already written "Marriage" (1872), "Arkwright's Wife" (1873) and +"Clancarty" (1874). There followed quickly "Rose Michel" (1875, in +collaboration), "Queen and Woman" (1876, an adaptation from Hugo), +"Won at Last" (1877), "Through the Dark" (1878), "An Iron Will" (1879, +later to be called "Hazel Kirke," 1880), "A Fool's Errand" (1881, an +adaptation), "Dakolar" (1884), "In Spite of All" (1885), and "Rienzi" +(1886). Then came the present play, followed by "A Noble Rogue" (1888) +and "Money Mad," modelled after Hugo. + +In correspondence with Mr. Percy Mackaye, it is significant to hear +him insisting on his father's change in sociological bearing having +taken place while writing "Paul Kauvar." Timeliness was given to its +initial presentment through the fact that at the moment some Chicago +anarchists had been on trial, and were condemned to death. Writing of +the incident, William Dean Howells recalls that: + + At the house of Judge Pryor, in 1887, several of us came + together in sympathy with your father, who was trying--or had + vainly tried--to get the United States Supreme Court to + grant the Chicago anarchists a new trial. With your father I + believed that the men had been convicted on an unjust ruling, + and condemned for their opinions, not for a proven crime. I + remember your father's wrathful fervour, and the instances he + alledged of police brutality. [Letter to Mr. Percy Mackaye.] + +In a published interview, Mackaye expressed his concern for the case; +but he likewise was reticent about making theatre capital out of it. +He is reported to have said: + + The play was first called "Paul Kauvar; or, Anarchy." Then I + thought "Anarchy" would be the best title, and under that + I produced it in Buffalo. After its production, the Chicago + anarchists were hanged, and, to avoid a possible charge of + trading on that event, I went back to my first title. Later, + however, the subtitle, "Anarchy," was gradually reduced to + smaller lettering and finally dropped. + +The success of the play on its first night was a double triumph, for +twelve hundred leading citizens had signed an invitation to have it +given in Mackaye's native city, and the evening was a kind of public +testimony to his position. This was one of the rare instances of an +American dramatist receiving such recognition. Mackaye assumed the +title-rôle, and, supporting him were Frederick de Belleville, Eben +Plympton, Sidney Drew, Julian Mitchell, May Irwin, and Genevieve +Lytton. Commenting on the occasion, the Buffalo _Courier_ said: + + It was not as a playwright alone that his friends honour Mr. + Mackaye. It may be said of him with strict justice that he + is one of the few men of our day who have brought to the + much-abused theatre the intelligence, the skill, the learning + and the genius that it so much needs in an era of speculators + and buffoons. He has always been able and willing to take the + pen or the rostrum, whether at Harvard or at Steinway Hall, to + expound the principles upon which he has so assiduously worked + for the past fifteen years. + +Mackaye had chosen his theme in the same spirit that Judge Conrad had +selected "Jack Cade." He wished to measure the danger of liberty, +but he did so indirectly, for the play does not abound in long +philosophical flights of definition and warning. He himself confessed +that the subject was defined only once, in these words, spoken by the +hero to the woman he loves, when she is pleading with him to flee from +France. He silences her by saying: + + "I must stay to war with beasts who bring disgrace upon our + noble cause. The torch of liberty, which should light mankind + to progress, when left in madmen's hands, kindles that blaze + of anarchy whose only end is ashes." + +This indicates very distinctly that Mackaye's stand for the Chicago +anarchists was not due to sympathy with their political monomania, but +rather championed justice which, only when rightly used, will stem +the tide of overwrought minds. With the execution of these men, he +believed the cause of anarchy would be strengthened by the general +impression gained of their martyrdom. His attitude was widely +discussed, and "Paul Kauvar" became a visible demonstration of anarchy +gone mad. + +Of the component elements in his play, Mackaye left a full record. It +is worth preserving as indication of his motive. In an interview he +said: + + For many years I have devoted myself to the mechanical, as + well as the artistic side of the theatre, in the hope that by + improving stage mechanism I might help to develop the artistic + ensemble essential to high art results in the theatre. To this + end I have made numerous inventions, and designed and + built several theatres. [The Madison Square and the Lyceum + Theatres.] + + In this work I have been almost daily in contact with + labourers and mechanics of every kind, and this contact + stirred in me a very deep and sincere sympathy with these + classes of men. I was led to realize the greatness of + obligation under which the whole world is placed by the + industry, ability and devotion to duty which characterizes by + far the larger portion of the working classes. + + At the same time, through relations intimate and confidential, + I became conscious that certain foreign ideas--the natural + outgrowth of excessive poverty and despotism in the Old + World--were insinuating themselves into the hearts and minds + of American labourers to an extent perilous to their own + prosperity and to the very life of the republic. + + In this country political corruption and the grasping spirit + of corporations are constantly affording the demagogue or the + dreamer opportunity to preach the destruction of civil order + with great plausibility, giving scope to reckless theorists + who have so often, in the world's history, baffled the + endeavours of the rational and patient liberalists of their + day. + + This excited in me an ardent desire to do what little I could + as a dramatist to counteract what seemed to me the poisonous + influences of these hidden forces: to write a play which might + throw some light on the goal of destruction to which these + influences inevitably lead, whenever the agitation between + capital and labour accepts the leadership of anarchism. + + The time chosen by me was that of the Terror in France, + 1793-94, during which the noble fruits of the French + Revolution came near to annihilation, thanks to the supremacy, + for a time, of a small band of anarchical men who, in the name + of liberty, invoked the tyranny of terror. + + The hero of my play, _Paul Kauvar_, has for his prototype + Camille Desmoulins, one of the most conspicuous and sincere + sons of liberty of his day, who--in spite of his magnificent + devotion to freedom--when he dared oppose the Jacobins, was + beheaded at the guillotine--a martyr to national, as distinct + from personal, liberty. + + The typical anarchist in my play is portrayed in _Carrac_, + whose prototype was Thomas Carier, sent into La Vendée as a + representative of the Jacobin convention. It was this man who, + without process of law, guillotined or destroyed most + horribly over one hundred thousand innocent men, women, and + children--in the name of liberty. He it was who invented + the "republican marriage"--the drowned bodies of whose + naked victims dammed the river Loire, and rendered its water + pestilential. + + The _Duc de Beaumont_ portrays a type of the true noblesse of + France--proud, fearless, often unjust, never ignoble. + + _Gouroc_ depicts the intriguing type of noblesse whose egotism + and cruelty engendered the tyranny of the monarchy, and + justified its destruction. + + The prototype of General Delaroche was the brave and generous + _Henri de la Rochejacquelin_, young leader of the royalists in + La Vendée. + + By the interplay of these types, I have sought to emphasize + what is truly heroic in the struggle which must ensue in all + times between men and classes possessed of differing ideas. + Especially it is the purpose of my play to remind the American + masses, by the history of the past, not to assist foreign + influences to repeat that history on this continent in the + future. + +A sound attitude, and one supported now (1920) daily in the +conservative press, whenever I.W.W. and Bolshevist demonstrations +shake the country! But "Paul Kauvar" is, to-day, not the kind of drama +to drive home the lesson; fashions have changed. + +On December 24, 1887, "Paul Kauvar" opened at the New York Standard +Theatre, with Joseph Haworth and Annie Robe, and thereafter started +on a stage career whose history is long and varied. It reached London, +May 12, 1890, under the management of Augustus Harris, at the Drury +Lane, with William Terriss and Jessie Millward heading the cast. + +Nym Crinkle liked "Paul Kauvar" because of its vigourous masculinity. +To him there was in it the "scintillant iron," "the strong arm, ruddy +at times with the tongues of promethean fire." It is a big canvas, +avowedly romantic. "It is," he wrote, after the play had been running +in New York some months, "a work of great propulsive power, of genuine +creative ingenuity, of massive dramatic effectiveness." On that +account it is well worth the preserving and the reading. + + + +NEW NATIONAL THEATRE. + +WASHINGTON, D.C. + +W.H. RAPLEY. Manager. + + * * * * * + +SATURDAY EVENING,... MAY 5th, 1888, + +Grand Production for the Benefit of + +The Statue of Washington, +to be presented by + +The United States to the Republic of France, +of the latest and greatest New York success. + +PAUL KAUVAR, +by +STEELE MACKAYE. + + * * * * * + +THIS PERFORMANCE IS GIVEN UNDER THE AUSPICES OF + +=The President and Mrs. Cleveland=, + +THE FOLLOWING DISTINGUISHED COMMITTEE OF LADIES: + +MRS. NATHAN APPLETON, MRS. SENATOR J.P. JONES, +MISS FLORENCE BAYARD, MRS. SENATOR PALMER, +MRS. SECRETARY FAIRCHILD, MRS. SECRETARY ENDICOTT, +MRS. DON M. DICKINSOX, MRS. JUSTICE FIELD, +MRS. SENATOR SHERMAN, MRS. SENATOR STANFORD, +MRS. SENATOR HEARST, MRS. SENATOR STOCKBRIDGE, +MRS. SENATOR MANDERSON, MRS. SENATOR WALTHALL, +MRS. F.M.D. SWEAT, MRS. S.V. WHITE, + and MRS. WASHINGTON McLEAN; + +And the Following Executive Committee of Ladies and Gentlemen: + +MRS. SENATOR JOHN P. JONES, REPRESENTATIVE H.H. BINGHAM, +MRS. SENATOR THOMAS W. PALMER, MR. M.P. HANDY, +MISS FLORENCE BAYARD, MR. F.A. RICHARDSON, +SENATOR W.B. ALLISON, MR. W. STILSON HUTCHINS, +SENATOR J.D. CAMERON, MR. D.R. McKEE, +SENATOR JOHN T. MORGAN, MR. JAMES R. YOUNG, +REPRESENTATIVE J.J. HEMPHILL, MR. W.F. O'BRIEN, + and COL. THOMAS P. OCHILTREE. + + +THIS PROCUTION IS A TRIBUTE TO THE CAUSE FREELY OFFERED BY + +=MR. HENRY G. MINER=, + +=STEELE MACKAYE=, + +And the Following Volunteer Cast. + +GENTLEMEN: + +PAUL KAUVAR STEELE MACKAYE +HONORÉ ALBERT MAXIME, Duc de Beaumont FREDERIC DE BELLEVILLE +MARQUIS DE VAUX, alias GOUROC, one of the public accusers of the Revolutionary + Tribunal WILTON LACKAYE +GENERAL DELAROCHE, Commander of the Royalist Forces in La Vendée NESTOR LENNON +GENERAL KLETERRE, Commander of the Republican Forces in La Vendée M.B. SNYDER +COL. LA HOGUE, on the staff of General Delaroche LESLIE ALLEN +DODOLPHE POTIN, an usher of the Revolutionary Tribunal; afterwards sergeant in the + Battalion of the Bonnets Rouges SIDNEY DREW +CARRAC, a typical Anarchist and a Republican Representative in La Vendée GEO. FAWCETT +BOURDOTTE, a "Sans Culottes" EDWARD COLEMAN +GOUJON, a Corporal in the Battalion of the Bonnets Rouges E.M. HURD +TABOOZE, an officer of Gens d'Armes J.F. WENTWORTH +FIRST ORDERLY E.R. SPENCER +SECOND ORDERLY A.S. PALMER +FIRST SANS CULOTTES RUFUS WILLIAM +SECOND SANS CULOTTES R.S. McBRIDE + +LADIES: + +DIANE DE BEAUMONT, daughter of the Duke Miss CARRIE TURNER +NANETTE POTIN Miss HELEN MAR +SCARLOTTE Miss LIZZIE RECHELLE + +AND THE FOLLOWING TRAINED AUXILIARIES: + + LADIES. + +Miss Bunee. Miss Moore. Miss Becks. Miss Marshall. +Miss Pierson. Miss Maguire. Miss Forster. Miss Gianetti. +Miss Frozar. Miss Hughes. Miss Weltars. Mrs. Hughes. +Miss Weeks. Miss Naylor. Miss Lavard. Miss Hearn. +Miss Smith. Mrs. Boware. Miss Arnold. Mrs. Lack + + GENTLEMEN. + +Mart Townsend. Wm. Sharkey. Chas. Belmont. T. Mitchell. +Henry Schaffer. Wm. Brown. H. Marks. B. Fisher. +W.W. Waters. Geo. Masten. C.M. Mackay. Chas. Nuger. +Geo. Turner. Frank Comstock. T. Jarvis. H. Frees. +F. Daley. Wm. Chambers. S. Sullivan. J. Smith. +F. King. F. Reynolds. E. Russell. Daniel Charles. +R. Ryan. S.B. Caruth. J. Godfrey. S. Rosenthal. +J. Sheehan. J. Sawyer. G.B. Merton. A. Goldsmith. +R. Mansfield. G. Shaffer. P. Berger. Jas. O'Brien. +Rufus Williams. C. Bird. J.J. Blake. Wm. Mack. +Benj. Blons. H. Hamill. Chas. Marshall. C. Brady. +John Kenny. W. Sullivan. H. Gordon. G. Harvey. +Ben. Sharwood. F. Medina. M. Brickner. C. King. +Al. Young. Ed. Ryerson. L.T. McDermott. J. Macarthy. +Chas. Norman. E. Morrison. F. Allen. +Geo. Hopper. F. Blake. J. Harris. + + * * * * * + +Charles Haslam Business Manager of "Paul Kauvar" Company +Jere. Stevens Stage Manager +Ralph Welles Assistant Stage Manager +John Ginsinger Master Mechanic of Miner's Newark Theatre +Charles W. Helnert Assistant Master Mechanic of Miner's Newark Theatre +Joseph Logan Master Mechanic of "Paul Kauvar" Company +Harry Cashion Chief Flyman of H.C. Miner's Newark Theatre +Charles Dunlap Master of Properties of Miner's Newark Theatre +Ed. Lawrence Master of Properties of "Paul Kauvar" Company +A.C.E. Sturgis Chief Electrician of Miner's Newark Theatre +William Maston Assistant Electrician of Miner's Newark Theatre +Charles L'Orange Musical Director of Miner's Newark Theatre + * * * * * + +The Tableau of the "Dream" in the First Act represents + +"THE TYRANNY OF TERROR." + +SCENE--FRANCE. TIME. 1794. + +ACT I.--THE TERROR. Scene--The interior of the study of Paul Kauvar. + +ACT II.--THE INHUMANITY OF MAN. Scene--Prison of the Conciergerie +adjoining the Revolutionary Tribunal in Paris. + +ACT III.--THE CONFESSION. Scene--The Grand Hall of the Chateau of +Delaroche in La Vendée. + +ACT IV.--ON PAROLE. Scene--Same as Act III. + +Three minutes will elapse between Acts IV. and V. + +ACT V.--"'TWIXT LOVE AND HONOR." Scene--Same as Act IV. + +The Tableau which concludes this performance, and rivals in power +and beauty the famous dream scene of the first act, represents +allegorically + +"THE CONQUEST OF EVIL." + +It is a poetic picture, full of deep thought and careful study. The +central figure is that of the Angel of Conquest, with one foot upon +the prostrate fiend Anarchy, holding high that irresistible weapon of +progress, the Sword of Light. The fiend carries in his hands the Torch +and Flag of Anarchy, and with these is about to sink into the Abyss of +Darkness. + + * * * * * + + + + +PAUL KAUVAR; + +OR, + +ANARCHY + +_A PLAY IN FIVE ACTS_ + +_By_ STEELE MACKAYE + +1915, by Harold Steele Mackaye + +1919, by Harold Steele Mackaye + +[The Editor wishes to thank Mrs. Steele Mackaye and Mr. Percy +Mackaye for their permission to include "Paul Kauvar" in the present +Collection. All rights are fully secured, and proceedings will +immediately be taken against anyone attempting to infringe them.] + + + + +DRAMATIS PERSONÆ + +MEN. + +PAUL KAUVAR, _Age 30.--President of the Revolutionary Section of +Fraternity. Afterwards Captain on_ GENERAL KLEBER'S _staff_. + +HENRI DE LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN, _Age 22. Commander of the Royalist forces +in la Vendée_. + +GENERAL KLEBER, _In command of the Republican forces in la Vendée_. + +HONORÉ ALBERT MAXIME, DUC DE BEAUMONT, _Age 65. Cousin of_ LA +ROCHEJACQUELEIN. + +GOUROC, _alias_ MARQUIS DE VAUX, _Of the Jacobin Club, and one of the +Public Accusers of the Revolutionary Tribunal_. + +COLONEL LA HOGUE, _On the staff of_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN. + +MARDOCHE, _alias the_ ABBÉ DE ST. SIMON. + +JEAN LITAIS, _A peasant of Brittany--formerly a servant of the_ DUC DE +BEAUMONT. _Then for a time turnkey in the prison of the Republic_. + +ARISTIDES, _alias_ DODOLPHE POTIN, _An usher of the Revolutionary +Tribunal, afterward Sergeant in the Battalion of the Bonnet Rouge_. + +CARRAC, _Republican Representative in Vendée_. + +GOUJON, _Private in the Battalion of the Bonnet Rouge_. + +BOURDOTTE, _Sans Culotte_. + +TABOOZE, _An officer of the gens d'armes_. + +ORDERLIES, _On the Staff of_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN. + + +WOMEN. + +DIANE DE BEAUMONT, _Daughter of the Duke_. + +NANETTE POTIN, _Wife of_ ARISTIDES. + +DENISE DUBOIS, _Foster-sister of_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _and fiancée of_ +JEAN LITAIS. + +_Soldiers, Peasants, "Sans Culottes", Turnkeys, &c_. + +SCENE. _France_. + +TIME. _1794_. + +Under the title of "ANARCHY," the play was first performed at Buffalo, +New York, May 30, 1887, at the Academy of Music. The following was the +cast: + +PAUL KAUVAR Steele MacKaye. +GENERAL LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN Eben Plympton. +DUC DE BEAUMONT Frederick de Belleville. +MARQUIS DE VAUX, _alias_ GOUROC Henry Lee. +ABBÉ DE ST. SIMON John A. Lane. +COLONEL LA HOGUE H.B. Bradley. +CARRAC M.B. Snyder. +ARISTIDES POTIN Sidney Drew. +JEAN LITAIS B.T. Ringgold. +GENERAL KLEBER Jerome Stevens. +BOURDOTTE Julian Mitchell. +GOUJON Edward M. Hurd. +DIANE DE BEAUMONT Genevieve Lytton. +NANETTE POTIN May Irwin. +DENISE Marie Hartley. +SCARLOTTE Maud Hosford. +ALINE Alice Hamilton. + +Cast of the first New York performance, December 24, 1887, the +Standard Theatre. The name was changed to "Paul Kauvar". + +PAUL KAUVAR Mr. Joseph Haworth. +HONORÉ ALBERT MAXIME Mr. Edwin Varrey. +MARQUIS DE VAUX, _alias_ GOUROC Mr. Wilton Lackaye. +GENERAL DELAROCHE Mr. Nestor Lennon. +THE ABBÉ DE ST. SIMON Mr. B.F. Horning. +GENERAL KLETERRE Mr. Jerome Stevens. +COLONEL LA HOGUE Mr. Leslie Allen. +DODOLPHE POTIN, _alias_ ARISTIDES Mr. Sidney Drew. +CARRAC Mr. George D. Fawcett. +BOURDOTTE Mr. Edward Coleman. +GOUJON Mr. Edward M. Hurd. +TABOOZE Mr. Charles Mitchell. +FIRST ORDERLY Mr. E.R. Spencer. +SECOND ORDERLY Mr. A.E. Lohman. +FIRST SANS CULOTTE Mr. Fred Clifton. +SECOND SANS CULOTTE Mr. C.H. Wentworth. +DIANE DE BEAUMONT Miss Annie Robe. +NANETTE POTIN Miss Louise Rial. +SCARLOTTE Miss Lillie Eldridge. + + + + +PAUL KAUVAR + + + +ACT I. + +TIME. _The Terror_. 1794. + +SCENE. _Paris. Study of_ PAUL KAUVAR'S _apartment_. + +_The decorating is in the classic style of the painter David. +Old-fashioned escritoire with chair. Folding doors across corner up +stage. Window, with table beneath it. Fireplace, with picture of_ PAUL +KAUVAR _over it, and fire on andirons. Doors at the right and left of +stage. + +At the Rise of Curtain_, NANETTE _crosses to fireplace and shovels +ashes into a pail_. POTIN _is heard outside, singing, in loud and +discordant tones, "La Marseillaise."_ + + +NANETTE. + +[_Starting up angrily_.] + +There's that lazy man of mine, singing, while I work. + +[_Crosses to folding doors, flings them open and shouts roughly_.] + +Dodolphe!--Dodolphe Potin! + + +POTIN. + +[_Meekly, outside_.] + +Aye, aye! + + +NANETTE. + +I want you! + + +POTIN. + +[_Outside_.] + +Aye, aye! + + +NANETTE. + +Hurry up!--Do you hear? + + +POTIN. + +[_Appearing_.] + +I could hear your sweet voice if I were deaf as Justice. + + +NANETTE. + +Fool! Justice is blind, not deaf. + + +POTIN. + +True! That's why you always get the better of me, dear. Justice +listens too much and looks too little. + + +NANETTE. + +Bah! + +[_Pointing to pail_.] + +Take that rubbish to the cellar. + + +POTIN. + +[_Crosses, lifts pail, and looks into it_.] + +Ashes!--Heigho! Every fire has its ashes. + + +NANETTE. + +Aye--and the fire that warms a man's home may burn his house +down!--Mark you that, Citizen. + + +POTIN. + +Oh, I see! You mean a wife, who should be a comfort, often proves a +curse. + + +NANETTE. + +I mean, Citizen Potin, that in days of revolution, husbands are easily +suppressed. + + +POTIN. + +[_Starting_.] + +Take care! A word against the Revolution is treason and sure death. + + +NANETTE. + +Bah! Better death, than a life of terror like that in France to-day. + + +POTIN. + +[_Terrified_.] + +Good heavens, Nanette! Fewer words than these have guillotined our +betters! Can you never hold your tongue? + + +NANETTE. + +Never!--while I have a truth to tell. + + +POTIN. + +Tell the truth! Good Lord, that's fatal. + + +NANETTE. + +Aye, for in these noble days of liberty we are only free to lie. + + +POTIN. + +[_Turning away in disgust_.] + +Damn it! I must run or be ruined. + +[_Starts to go, but, in passing window, recoils with a cry of +dismay_.] + +Sacristie!--See!--See there! + +[_Points out of window_. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Contemptuously looking out of window_.] + +What now? + + +POTIN. + +There goes the Phantom! + + +NANETTE. + +[_Starting_.] + +The dumb girl of the guillotine! + + +POTIN. + +Who glides like a phantom through the streets, without home, friend, +or occupation. + + +NANETTE. + +[_With horror_.] + +Except to stand by the scaffold, and count the heads that fall from +the guillotine. + + +POTIN. + +They say that calamity overtakes everyone she follows: that it's +disaster to stand in her way, and sure death to notice her. + + +NANETTE. + +Aye, even those who think themselves too great to believe in God, have +faith in the fatal power of this pale child. My God! look there! + + +POTIN. + +Good Lord!--It's Mademoiselle Diane! She's crossing the street in +front of the Phantom. + + +NANETTE. + +Aye!--Go.--Hurry Mademoiselle here, before she has a chance to heed +this messenger of misery. + + +POTIN. + +[_Going hurriedly_.] + +Goddess of Reason, save us all! + +[_Exit_. + + +NANETTE. + +Goddess of Reason!--A fine deity for days as mad as these: + +[_Crossing to mantel and looking at_ KAUVAR'S _picture_.] + +Ah, Citizen Kauvar!--Patriot!--Revolutionist!--Bold son of Liberty, +as you are!--You'd love this age of terror less if it brought death +to Mademoiselle Diane.--Yes, I've watched ye, sturdy citizen, and +in spite of your stern devotion to the Republic, I suspect you carry +another idol in your heart. + + +DIANE + +[_Outside, laughing_.] + +All right, Citizen,--I'll not forget; though the poor crazed girl is +not half as harmful as her saner neighbours. + + +NANETTE. + +Ah! Here she comes--Diane Leblanc,--a ray of sunlight in this prison +men call Paris. + + +DIANE. + +[_Entering with flowers_.] + +Ah, Nanette! Quick! Water and a vase. See! + + +NANETTE. + +What--flowers? + +[_Brings vase_. + + +DIANE. + +Yes, they bloom even in this reign of terror. + +[_Putting flowers in vase_.] + +But you see these fragile beauties are sinless, and therefore know no +fear.--Is my father in his room? + + +NANETTE. + +No. He went away an hour ago. + + +DIANE. + +Gone an hour, and not returned? That makes me anxious!--Is Citizen +Kauvar at home? + + +NANETTE. + +Not yet! He's been away all night. + + +DIANE. + +Good heavens!--Nanette--can anything have happened? + + +NANETTE. + +Yes, what happens every day. Innocence is slaughtered! + + +DIANE. + +But he--Citizen Kauvar--? + + +NANETTE. + +Has doubtless fought all night to stop the useless flow of noble +blood. + + +DIANE. + +Yes, he is brave, merciful. + + +NANETTE. + +Ah! He was one of the fiercest champions of Freedom when the people +first arose; but now I think he'd give his life to still the tempest +he did so much to rouse. + + +DIANE. + +He will return sad and worn; we must do our best to cheer him when he +comes. + + +NANETTE. + +One look--one smile of yours will banish every thought of sorrow from +his tired brain. + + +DIANE. + +Hush, Nanette;--you must not talk like that. + + +A VOICE. + +[_Outside_.] + +Nanette!--Diane! + + +NANETTE. + +[_Startled_.] + +What's that? + + +DIANE. + +[_Frightened_.] + +My father! + + +DUKE. + +[_Entering wildly_.] + +My child! Diane!--Where is she? + + +DIANE. + +[_Rushing to him_.] + +Here!--Safe in your dear arms! + + +DUKE. + +[_Embracing her_.] + +Thank God! + +[_Turning to NANETTE_.] + + +My good Nanette, leave us alone awhile. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Going_.] + +All right, Citizen. + + +DUKE. + +And warn us when anyone is coming. + + +NANETTE. + +[_At the door_.] + +Don't fear! I'll stand good guard. + +[_Exit_. + + +DIANE. + +Father, why are you so moved? + + +DUKE. + +But now, the mob seized some poor young girl they found without +protection in the street. I heard of this and fearing for your life, I +hurried here in awful agony of mind. Ah! Diane, this dread of peril to +you is worse than the worst of deaths to me. + + +DIANE. + +Take heart, dear father! Does not Paul Kauvar, strong and true, stand +between us and danger! + + +DUKE. + +Yes; but 'tis hard that I, a peer of France, should owe my daughter's +life to a peasant's son--a workman! + + +DIANE. + +A, workman with a brush so potent that the noblest born do honour to +his art. What would have been our fate but for his devotion? + + +DUKE. + +He's a plebeian--a Republican! The sense of my obligation to him--the +enemy of my race--is almost unendurable. Ah, but for you I should long +since have braved the scaffold and buried humiliation in the grave. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Hurrying in_.] + +Take care!--A committee from the Section is on its way upstairs. + + +DIANE. + +[_In fear_.] + +A committee coming here? How strange! + + +NANETTE. + +No, not strange! Treachery is at every door. They are coming. +Quick!--To your work! + +[_The_ DUKE _sits at the desk and pretends to write_. DIANE _sits at +table and takes up sewing_. NANETTE _dusts. Knock is heard outside_. +NANETTE _answers roughly_.] + +Come in! + +_Enter_ GOUROC, POTIN, GOUJON _and two_ SANS CULOTTES. + + +GOUROC. + +Health and fraternity, Citizens! We come for Paul Kauvar, President of +our Section. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Gruffly_.] + +He's not at home. + + +GOUROC. + +Ah, indeed! + +[_Sitting_.] + +Then we will await him here. + +[_All sit in silence_. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Aside, in irritation_.] + +Oh, the impudence of these men! How my nails ache to get at their ugly +faces! [_Crossing_.] + +How often have I told you that this apartment is not a public office? + + +POTIN. + +But, my precious angel-- + + +NANETTE. + +Bah! Religion is abolished, and angels are suppressed! I wish friends +were too! + + +POTIN. + +[_Laughing_.] + +Talk of the rack! What is it to a woman's tongue? + + +NANETTE. + +What know you of a woman's tongue? + + +POTIN. + +Enough to damn me, if knowledge were a crime. + + +NANETTE. + +[_To_ GOUROC.] + +Come, Citizen, there's no use waiting. President Kauvar don't do +business at home; you've no rights here. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Rising sternly_.] + +The patriot has unlimited rights, woman. He may dare all--violate all, +in his zeal for the Republic. + + +NANETTE. + +Well, then, dare my dusting. + +[_Strikes brush into her hand and sends dust all over_ GOUROC.] + + +GOUROC. + +[_Moving off, sputtering_.] + +Who is this, Citizen Potin? + + +POTIN. + +[_Proudly_.] + +My wife, Citizen Gouroc. + + +GOUROC. + +Who taught her manners? + + +POTIN. + +The Goddess of Liberty, a rough and ready teacher. + + +GOUROC. + +Who teaches with sharp tools. + + +NANETTE. + +Aye--tools so sharp they often cut the fools that use them. Mark that. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Crossing to_ DIANE.] + +You are the wife of President Kauvar, I suppose? + +[DIANE _starts up and stares. The_ DUKE _rises and advances with +stern hauteur. At sight of_ GOUROC, _he starts, and surveys him with +amazement_.] + +Well, old man, are you mad, or do you know me? + + +DUKE. + +[_Significantly_.] + +I think we have met before. + + +GOUROC. + +Yes, and may meet again. Permit me to introduce myself. I am Citizen +Gouroc, of the Jacobin Club, and one of the Public Accusers of the +Revolutionary Tribunal. + +[DIANE _draws close to_ NANETTE.] + +Now, who are you? + + +DUKE. + +I am George Leblanc, private secretary to Paul Kauvar. + + +GOUROC. + +Ah, indeed!--His private secretary? Then I can do my business with +you. It is said that two aristocrats in disguise are lurking about +this house. + +[_All start_.] + +I must communicate with you in secret, Citizen. + +[_Turning to_ DIANE.] + +Are you the daughter of this old man? + + +DIANE. + +I am his daughter, Diane Leblanc. + + +GOUROC. + +You remain. + +[_To_ SANS CULOTTES.] + +You, Comrades, wait across the street; + +[_Exeunt_ SANS CULOTTES.] + +and you, Citizen Potin, take your wife, leave the room, and wait +within call. You understand? + + +POTIN. + +I do, Citizen. When the Republic commands, I obey. + +[_Exit, with_ NANETTE. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Bowing with great politeness_.] + +Monsieur le Duc de Beaumont. + +[DIANE _starts_.] + + +DUKE. + +[_Turning with contempt_.] + +Monsieur le Marquis de Vaux. + + +DIANE + +[_Amazed_.] + +This--the Marquis de Vaux? + + +GOUROC. + +You are surprised to see me in this garb. I am equally surprised to +find you the guests of Citizen Kauvar, President of the Republican +Section of Fraternity. + + +DUKE. + +Not quite as strange as discovering the dainty Marquis de Vaux a +Public Accuser and the servile slave of the guillotine. + + +GOUROC. + +Reserve your contempt till you understand the meaning of my presence +here. I come to warn you against your host. + + +DIANE. + +[_Haughtily_.] + +How, sir! You suspect the loyalty of Monsieur Kauvar? + + +GOUROC. + +What if he has trapped you here only to betray you? + + +DIANE. + +That's impossible, sir! Monsieur Kauvar is the soul of honour and +devotion. + + +DUKE. + +Besides, his head is surety for ours. The discovery that he had +sheltered us would entail his own death. + + +GOUROC. + +Precisely! And what if the sense of that danger had prompted a +denunciation, while there still was some merit in it? + +[_The_ DUKE _starts_. DIANE _turns aside with scorn_.] + +One thing is certain: an anonymous denunciation of you, describing +your disguise and your retreat, has been made to our club. + + +DIANE. + +[_Clasping her father_.] + +What!--Discovered and denounced? + + +GOUROC. + +As Public Accuser, the denunciation fell first into my hands. I have +risked my life by withholding it from the Tribunal until your safety +is assured. + + +DUKE. + +[_Giving_ GOUROC _his hand_.] + +Pardon, Marquis, that I did not realize before the motives of your +course. + + +GOUROC. + +Grant me, then, the privilege of saving you. + + +DUKE. + +We will. You belong to our own race; we may trust you. + + +GOUROC. + +Then prepare for sudden and secret flight. + + +DIANE. + +[_Starting_.] + +Flight! Where can we be safer than under our present host's +protection? + + +GOUROC. + +Under mine, Mademoiselle. Kauvar is a man of the people. To him such +words as loyalty, truth and honour are but empty puffs of air. + + +DIANE. + +[_Proudly and passionately_.] + +On whose lips is there meaning purer, or prouder, than on Paul +Kauvar's? + + +DUKE. + +[_With haughty surprise_.] + +Mademoiselle! When you speak so warmly, you forget the distance that +separates you from one of his rank. + +[_Cries in the distance of_ "To the Guillotine!" _with the roll of +muffled drums_. + + +DIANE. + +[_In solemn voice_.] + +Nay, father, listen!--Do we need more to remind us of the nearness of +the protected to the protector? + +[_The_ DUKE _listens with bowed head_. GOUROC _goes to window_. + + +DUKE. + +[_To_ GOUROC, _as drums draw near_.] + +Is it the patrol? + + +GOUROC. + +[_Solemnly_.] + +No. Tis the guard of the death-cart, with to-day's load for the +guillotine. + + +DIANE. + +[_Hiding her face_.] + +This constant agitation is torture. + + +GOUROC. + +You can easily escape it, Mademoiselle. Accept the refuge I offer you. + + +DUKE. + +We will, Marquis, at once. Come to my room, and we will complete our +plans. + +[_To_ DIANE.] + +My child, prepare to leave this house to-night, in haste and in +secret. + +[_Exit with_ GOUROC. + + +DIANE. + +Fly from this house to-night?--No! I will not go! And yet I must, or +tell my father the secret I have kept from him so long. + + +PAUL. + +[_Outside_.] + +I am not at home to anyone. I will not brook intrusion here. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Outside_.] + +I'll keep out all I can. + + +DIANE. + +Paul is coming!--How can I tell him we must part? + +[PAUL _enters_. DIANE _turns quickly toward him_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Absorbed in documents he is carrying. Crossing slowly to desk, he +lays the papers down and, turning, sees_ DIANE.] + +Diane! Thank heaven you're alone! + +[DIANE _checks him by a warning gesture; crosses quickly to the +door, listens a moment, then slowly approaches_ PAUL, _looking back +anxiously_.] + +Have you no word of welcome for a very weary friend? + + +DIANE. + +[_Throwing herself with nervous impetuosity into his arms_.] + +Ah, Paul! God bless and keep you! + + +PAUL. + +God blessed me beyond measure, when he made your heart my own. + + +DIANE. + +[_Leading him with nervous intensity to a chair_.] + +Sit here--sit here! + +[_She sits beside him_.] + +Let me look at your face, and listen to your voice, while I can--while +I can! + + +PAUL. + +How strangely you say this! + + +DIANE. + +Do you remember the old days--before this reign of terror darkened all +our lives--the sunny room in my father's chateau, where you taught +me to paint the flowers we had gathered--oh! so gaily!--from the +quaintest corners of the garden? + + +PAUL. + +Ah! those were ideal days.--You, almost a child--a girl just blooming +into womanhood, like those rosebuds in your hair. + + +DIANE. + +Oh, how happy I was!--So happy, earth seemed heaven! So happy, sorrow +seemed almost a myth!--I little dreamed that I would ever drink the +bitterest dregs of that black cup.--The Revolution rushed upon us--and +then, oh then!-- + +[_Hides her face on_ PAUL'S _breast_. + + +PAUL. + +Then we parted, I thought forever. + + +DIANE. + +You came no longer. The sunshine lost its smile--the flowers faded. + + +PAUL. + +And yet, amidst the fearful tumult of these distracted times, we met +once more. + + +DIANE. + +[_Starting up_.] + +Oh, my God! That meeting! I see the frightful scene again! My father +there before me--old--helpless, dragged from his own house by a horde +of brutal beasts.--I, shrieking, fighting vainly at his side--amidst +their mocking laughs and jeers. Ah! I can hear them now--yes, and +high above their hideous jests, rings out a clarion voice--'tis +yours--silencing this crowd of curs!--With what sublime audacity you +claim my father as your cousin, saving him and me, by the coolness of +your courage!--Paul, from that hour you were more than man to me; you +were a God, a hero, my father's Saviour! + + +PAUL. + +[_Rising_.] + +Better than all that now--your lover--guardian--husband. + +[_Embraces her, then staggers_. + + +DIANE. + +Paul--what is it? + + +PAUL. + +Nothing,--fatigue from last night's bitter work. + +[DIANE _brings wine and offers it. He puts it away_.] + +No--one kiss from you will give me more strength than all the wine in +France. + +[_She kisses him_. + + +DIANE. + +Heaven knows you need more than human strength. + + +PAUL. + +Aye, Titan strength, to stem the tide of madness that overflows the +mind of France! Ah, Diane! if it were not for your dear love, I fear +my mind would falter at the task before me. + + +DIANE. + +Oh, Paul! Why undertake this task?--Why not fly to peace in other +lands? + + +PAUL. + +Fly!--Desert France in the hour of her agony?--In the awful travail +which gives birth to a new and nobler era for mankind?--No, no! I love +you more than life, but my Country--ah, that is mother, sister, wife, +and child! + + +DIANE + +But Paul-- + + +PAUL. + +Hush, sweetheart, you must not make the struggle harder! The infant +age is threatened with miscarriage!--The torch of Liberty, which +should light mankind to progress, if left in madmen's hands, kindles +that blaze of Anarchy whose only end is ashes. + + +DIANE. + +[_Suddenly starting_.] + +Hush! Listen! What is that? + + +PAUL. + +[_After listening_.] + +Nothing, foolish child. + +[_He is about to embrace her_. + + +DIANE. + +[_Turning sadly away_.] + +Nay, we are too rash! We forget the dangers that environ us. + + +PAUL. + +Would we could forget the weak concealment that makes cowards of us +both!--Oh, that something would happen to make us end this living lie! + + +DIANE. + +[_Solemnly_.] + +Perhaps that something has happened, Paul. We have been warned that +we're no longer safe beneath this roof. + + +PAUL. + +[_Amazed_.] + +Warned!--By whom? + + +DIANE. + +What matter by whom?--Enough that we've been told the Civil Guard may +search the house this very day. + + +PAUL. + +[_With sudden resolution_.] + +I am glad of it. Thank fate that something forces us to tell your +father you are mine. + + +DIANE. + +Nay, Paul--I cannot, dare not tell him that! + + +PAUL. + +Then leave the task to me. + + +DIANE. + +'Twould be but to win his curse. You little dream the deathless pride +that's rooted in his heart! To wrench out that pride would break the +heart that holds it. + + +PAUL. + +[_Bitterly_.] + +Then let it break! I, too, am proud, Diane, proud as all are proud +to be who owe their manhood to their God and not to the favour of a +king!--If your father scorns the sacred work of heaven's hand, then he +is only fit for scorn himself. + + +DIANE. + +Oh, Paul! Be charitable! + + +PAUL. + +Charitable! To what?--Your father's pride in the race from which +he springs--the race whose iron rule for centuries stamped shame on +honest labour--crowned infamy with honour--made gods of profligates +and dogs of workingmen--ruining their wives--insulting their +mothers--debasing their daughters, and sowing the seeds of madness +in their veins?--Ah, Diane! when I face your father, 'tis not your +husband who should blush for his race. + + +DIANE. + +My father's race is mine.--I forgot its glories, and atoned its wrongs +in marrying you!--But I love, revere, my father still, and have +hoped each day that he would come to love you for your saving care of +me--and grow content to take you as a son. + + +PAUL. + +Who knows--perhaps he will. + + +DIANE. + +[_Sadly_.] + +Ah, no! The more you do for me, the more his pride revolts, till now I +dare not tell him of our marriage. + + +PAUL. + +Diane--listen. The time has come when you must choose between us. I +staked my life in saving yours, and his! He loves but little if he +hesitates to keep the precious life I saved unmarred by sorrow. + + +DIANE. Well, then, so be it! Have your will! But oh, seek first his +blessing for our love, before you tell him of our secret marriage. + + +PAUL. + +My love for you will teach me tenderness for him. Go now and send him +here. + +[_Kissing her_.] + +Courage! All may yet be well. + +[_Exit_ DIANE. PAUL _sits at desk wearily_.] + +Hateful humiliation!--to stoop in pleading for that already mine! But +patience, Paul Kauvar; he is the father of the woman you adore. + + +DUKE. + +[_Entering and advancing to_ PAUL.] + +One word before we part, good friend. I thought to leave this house +without farewell, but I cannot be so cruel. I have learned that this +is no longer a safe retreat. I am forced to seek one safer. + + +PAUL. + +And where will you find one, Monsieur? + + +DUKE. I shall best serve you by keeping that a secret. + + +PAUL. + +And does your daughter go with you? + + +DUKE. + +Could you think that I would leave her here? + + +PAUL. + +Certainly, Monsieur. If to stay seemed less perilous than to go. Why +not let me replace you for awhile? + + +DUKE. + +You guard my daughter here alone? + + +PAUL. + +In my character of cousin to Diane Leblanc, gossip has already united +us by even a closer tie. + + +DUKE. + +To my infinite annoyance, sir. + + +PAUL. + +Monsieur le Duc, in times like these, Madame Kauvar would be far safer +than Mademoiselle de Beaumont. + + +DUKE. + +[_With quiet hauteur_.] + +There are some means of safety forbidden to my rank, sir.--Pardon me +if I must say that what you suggest is one of them. + + +PAUL. + +What if I dared to love your daughter, to hope that you would grant me +the right to guard her as my wife? + + +DUKE. + +Seriously? + + +PAUL. + +Seriously! + + +DUKE. + +[_Shrugging his shoulders_.] + +This is another of the many insanities of the times. + + +PAUL. + +[_Haughtily_.] + +Suppose I had reason to believe that your daughter would consent? + + +DUKE. + +[_Sternly_.] + +One moment, Monsieur! Your first proposition involves but +madness,--your last implies dishonour. + + +PAUL. + +[_Indignantly_.] + +Dishonour! + +[_Checking himself_.] + +Monsieur, honesty is honoured now, even though it be not allied to an +empty title. Tis not a crest, but character, that measures manhood in +this modern age. Therefore I do not fear to tell you-- + +[DUKE _turns quickly_. PAUL _hesitates_.] + +that I love your daughter. + + +DUKE. + +[_With terrible contempt_.] + +And you take this time to declare it! When you have burdened me with +obligations that leave me powerless at your feet?--when I must see +in the demand for the daughter's hand, a possible bargain for the +father's life. + +[PAUL _turns fiercely. The_ DUKE _checks him_.] + +No more, sir! Happily I have two securities against dishonour: +my child's sense of what is due to herself--my own scorn of life +purchased at such a price. + + +PAUL. + +Perhaps your daughter may not deem the protection of my name so great +a degradation as yourself.--Dare you put her to the test? + + +DUKE. + +What test can you propose? + + +PAUL. + +[_Seating himself at desk and writing_.] + +Here is a pass procured at the risk of my life.--I fill it out for +George Leblanc.--It will convey you, alone, safely beyond our borders. +Here is another. I make this out for George Leblanc and Diane his +daughter. This will enable both of you to escape.--These passes have +the signatures of the chief of police; I countersign them, thus--a +double surety for you, a double risk for me.--Now, Monsieur, either +one of these passes is yours, as your daughter may decide, if you will +offer her the choice of remaining under my protection, or of leaving +France with you. + + +DUKE. + +[_Striking a bell_.] + +The choice is at her will. + +[_Enter_ NANETTE.] + +Send my daughter here at once. + +[_Exit_ NANETTE. + + +PAUL. + +One word, Monsieur. These passes are at stake, and my life as well. I +promise to be bound by the decision of your daughter.--If she decides +to remain, you promise to go and leave her here with me? + + +DUKE. I promise this on one condition. I pledge my honour to put the +alternative fairly before her. You must pledge yours to use no word to +influence her choice. + + +PAUL. + +I pledge myself to silence. + + +DIANE. + +[_Entering pale and anxious_.] + +You sent for me, Father? + + +DUKE. + +I did. Listen, child. I am about to leave France. By my side there is +peril--here is safety. Answer frankly: will you follow me, or remain +here under the protection of Monsieur Kauvar? + + +DIANE. + +[_Aside_.] + +What can this mean? He could not ask this if he knew the truth. + +[_Aloud_.] + +Father, I do not understand.--What shall I say? + + +DUKE. + +What your heart prompts, child. + +[_Turning away_.] + +Nay, do not hesitate; I will not influence your choice even with a +look. + + +DIANE. + +If I shrink from danger, if I stay here, what becomes of you? + + +DUKE. + +I go alone. + + +DIANE. + +Alone to meet your peril?--Then, by the bond of a daughter's duty, my +place is at my father's side. + +[PAUL _staggers. The_ DUKE _retires quietly to desk_. DIANE _speaks +aside to_ PAUL.] + +Remember he is old, with none but me to comfort his last days. + + +PAUL. + +[_With stern self-control_.] + +Monsieur, the double pass for George Leblanc and Diane his daughter +has been fairly won. + +[_Hands the pass to the_ DUKE, _bows coldly, and leaves the room +without a look at_ DIANE, _who falls into a chair and hides her face_. + + +DUKE. + +[_Looking suspiciously at_ DIANE.] + +Could there be warrant for his strange presumption? If so, this +separation is none too soon. + +[_Enter_ GOUROC.] + +Ah, Marquis, congratulate us. We are now released from all need of +burdening even you.--See! Here is a pass which opens the doors of our +prison. We fly to-night to Vendée, where we hope you may soon rejoin +us, and our cousin Rochejacquelein. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Aside_.] + +The devil!-- + +[_Aloud_.] + +You are fortunate, Duke. Alas that I cannot go with you! + + +DUKE. + +Well, come, Diane; time flies. We must prepare for our escape. + +[_Going with_ DIANE.] + +Au revoir, Marquis. + + +GOUROC. + +Au revoir, Monsieur le Duc, and bon voyage, Mademoiselle de Beaumont. + +[_Exeunt the_ DUKE _and_ DIANE. GOUROC _changes to a fierce and +hurried manner_.] + +Ah!--Not so fast, dear Duke! You're not out of France yet. This sudden +flight destroys all my plans. Again this girl, the heiress of ten +millions, will get beyond my reach.--No!--death, dishonour--nothing +shall snatch her from me now!--Aye, but how to prevent it? + +[_Reflecting_.] + +The Duke has not many years to live, and in these ticklish times old +men's days are easily shortened. He dead, his daughter's at my mercy. + +[_With sudden triumph_.] + +I have it!--I see the way to place her wholly in my grip!--A brilliant +move and easy to execute!--Kauvar knows nothing of my rank! + +[_Rings bell, goes to desk and begins to look at papers_.] + +Yes, these are what I need to guarantee my triumph! + +[_Enter_ POTIN.] + +Have you any blank warrants? + + +POTIN. + +I have!--I keep them always handy, especially for the petticoat sex. + +[_Giving them_.] + +I say, Comrade, I hope it's a she-man this time, for there's nothing +like this--[_Making sign across throat_] to stop the wag of a woman's +tongue. + + +GOUROC. + +Go.--Remain in the ante-room.--I may want you to summon a guard. + + +POTIN. + +[_Going_.] + +All right, Citizen! I'm always ready at the call of the Republic. + +[_Exit_. + + +GOUROC. + +Good!--Now to secure my victory!--But where can I find Kauvar? + +[_Starts for door_. KAUVAR _enters, absorbed in thought, without +seeing_ GOUROC, _who watches him_.] + +He's just in time! Fate conspires with me for success. + +[PAUL _seats himself at desk and buries his face in his arms_.--GOUROC +_goes over quietly and touches him on the shoulder_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Starting up in dismay_] + +You here, Gouroc! + + +GOUROC. + +I am, old friend,--though you seem scarce glad to see me. + + +PAUL. + +Pardon, Comrade; you find me at a moment when my mind's absorbed with +many cares. + + +GOUROC. + +I understand;--in times like these perplexity pursues the patriot. I +would not now intrude, dear friend, if duty did not force me. + + +PAUL. + +[_With sudden suspicion_.] + +Duty! And what duty can bring you here? + + +GOUROC. I have important warrants for your signature. + + +PAUL. + +[_Sitting again, with a sigh of relief_.] + +Another time.--I cannot sign them now. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Firmly_.] + +Friend, the business of the Republic is sacred; it cannot be +postponed. + + +PAUL. + +[_Wearily_.] + +Well, well!--What are these warrants? + +[_Takes up pen carelessly_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Calling off papers, as he gives them to_ PAUL _to sign_.] + +Warrants for the arrest of Catherine Cler-- + +[PAUL _signs_.] + +Maxime Berton-- + +[PAUL _signs_.] + +Marie Legrand-- + +[PAUL _signs_.] + +And this blank warrant for a suspected party, whose name that fool +Potin has registered so badly that I must get him to decipher it +before I can fill it in. + +[PAUL _signs mechanically_.] + +[_Aside_.] + +Tis done!--And she is mine! + +[_Aloud_.] + +Shall you be at the club to-night, friend? + + +PAUL. + +[_Shortly_.] + +No! + +[_Night comes on_. + + +GOUROC. + +What excuse shall I offer the fraternity? + + +PAUL. + +Say I am busy--busy--[_Striking his breast_.] breaking the heart of a +traitor to France! + + +GOUROC. + +[_Going_.] + +A welcome message.--I sha'n't forget it. + +[_Exit_. + + +PAUL. + +Wife gone!--Home desolated!--Naught left but the haunting memory of +joy forever lost!--Ah, I am weary, heart-broken--helpless! + +[_He sinks into the chair at desk, and buries his face in his arms. +Slowly the light dims to darkness. At back, the stage is transformed +into a_ TABLEAU OF KAUVAR'S DREAM OF ANARCHY. + +_Mysterious music accompanies the Dream, which consists of a tableau +of the guillotine in the Place de la Revolution, in Paris, by +moonlight. + +Here is seen the scaffold, with its ghastly paraphernalia, surrounded +by ferocious_ SANS CULOTTES, _and_ GENS D'ARMES. _Amidst them is an +old hag. + +The death-cart, with its load of victims, is seen in the +foreground--the entrance to the garden with the palace of the +Tuilleries in the background. + +The_ HEADSMAN _stands ready, near the knife of the guillotine. + +From the death-cart_ DIANE _glides on and slowly goes up the scaffold +steps. + +As she reaches the top, she is seized roughly by the_ HEADSMAN. + +_At this moment_ PAUL _starts with a cry of agony from his chair--and +at his shriek, the whole Tableau of the Dream instantly disappears_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Starting up wildly_.] + +No, no!--My life for hers!--My life for hers! + +[_Waking, as the Dream disappears, he looks about dazed and +bewildered; then bursts into hysterical laughter_.] + +A dream!--Thank God, a dream!--Only a horrible dream! + +[_Suddenly stops short in horror_.] + +How dark and still the house is. My God!--Something has +happened!--What is it? + +[_Shrieks with terror_.] + +Diane!--Diane! + + +NANETTE. + +[_Entering with lamp_.] + +What's the matter? + + +PAUL. + +Diane--Mademoiselle Diane, where is she? + + +DIANE. + +[_Appearing, dressed to go away_.] + +Here! + + +PAUL. + +[_Makes a spontaneous movement toward her, then checks himself and +turns to_ NANETTE.] + +Leave us! + +[NANETTE _goes silently away_. PAUL _speaks to_ DIANE _hoarsely_.] + +Where are you going? + + +DIANE. + +I am going to do my duty--follow the father who would die without my +care. + + +PAUL. + +[_After a pause_.] + +Yes, I remember now.--You are right.--You will be safer out of +France.--The dream! The dream! + + +DIANE. + +What dream? + + +PAUL. + +No matter! I am resigned now! Yes, resigned--resigned--resigned! + +[_Sinks sobbing into chair_. + + +DIANE. + +No, no, Paul!--I cannot endure this!--I will stay! I will stay! + + +PAUL. + +[_Starting up_.] + +No! You must not! I dare not keep you here.--I fear the worst! + + +DIANE. + +What do you mean? + + +PAUL. + +Don't ask me. I do not know myself. But you--when you are gone--you +will not forget me? + + +DIANE. + +Not while memory lasts! + + +PAUL. + +And I--perhaps I--some day--shall be free to seek you. + + +DIANE. + +God grant that day is near! + + +PAUL. + +And we--when we meet again, will you find courage to acknowledge who I +am? + + +DIANE. + +Nay--if you desire it--I'll prove my deathless love before I go.--I'll +tell my father all. + + +PAUL. + +No, never!--Never till I've won a name that even your proud father is +forced to honour. Meantime, I ask but this--your love and trust, while +I have life to strive. + + +DIANE. + +You shall have it!--Yes, through sunshine and shadow, I will love and +trust you to the end. + +[_They embrace_. + + +DUKE. + +[_Outside_.] + +Nanette, the coach is ready: be quick, bear our baggage to the door. + +[PAUL _and_ DIANE _separate quickly. Entering, the_ DUKE _glances +suspiciously at the two, then advances to_ PAUL.] + +Paul Kauvar, let us not part in bitterness. I owe you much; I grieve +to see you suffer. Courage! Believe me, I never honoured you as I do +now. + +[_Extends his hand_. PAUL _turns away_.] + +Will you not take my hand? + + +PAUL. + +No, Monsieur. Not until you think it worthy to guide and guard your +daughter, as my wife. + + +DUKE. + +[_Starts haughtily, then turns to_ DIANE.] + +Come, child! Tis time that we were gone. + + +DIANE. + +[_Crossing and extending her hand to_ PAUL.] + +Farewell! + + +PAUL. + +[_Taking her hand, speaks aside to her_.] + +Remember, love and trust. + + +DIANE. + +Forever! + +[PAUL _kisses her hand. She comes slowly to her father, keeping her +eyes in anguish on_ PAUL. + +[_The_ DUKE _leads her toward the folding doors which are suddenly +thrown open, disclosing a platoon of_ GUARDS. DIANE _shrieks, the_ +DUKE _starts back_, PAUL _turns in horror_. TABOOZE _advances into the +room_. + + +TABOOZE. + +In the name of the Republic, I arrest Honoré Albert Maxime, heretofore +Duc de Beaumont. + + +DIANE. + +[_Clasping the_ DUKE.] + +Father! + + +PAUL. + +[_Sternly_.] + +What does this mean?--Whose name is on that warrant? + + +TABOOZE. + +[_With surprise_.] + +Why, your own, Citizen. + +[PAUL _recoils, stunned_. + + +DUKE. + +What! Betrayed by you? + + +DIANE. + +No, no! It is not true! + +[_Snatching the paper, looking, then with a cry_.] + +Great heaven!--It is!--His name and hand! + +[_She sinks down in despair_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Passionately, to the_ DUKE.] + +I betray you!--I, Paul Kauvar.--Tis false! + +[_To_ DIANE.] + +You at least will not believe this lie. + + +DUKE. + +[_Interposing_.] + +Silence! Better death to her than the pollution of another word from +you! + + +PAUL. + +But my God!--You do not know.--She is-- + + +DIANE. + +[_Starting up wildly_.] + +Stop!--I forbid you to say more! + + +CURTAIN. + + + + +ACT II. + +SCENE. _Interior of the Prison of the Republic. A room with +cells.--Entrance to outer corridor. Table with chairs near it.--As +curtain rises, howls of a Mob are heard outside_. + + +POTIN. + +[_Entering in the midst of the howls, then clapping his hands to his +ears_.] + +Oh, that I were deaf! Then I'd escape the shriek of my wife, and the +roar of this cursed tribunal condemning poor devils to death. + +[_Renewed howls_.] + +Aye, that's right! Howl on, hyenas! I could howl, too, yesterday, as +well as the worst of ye. But I can't now; no, not since the arrest +of the poor old Duke. There he lies, in yonder cell, and here am I +quartered as a witness against him--and that villain Gouroc has done +all this! + +[_Enter_ GOUROC _quietly in the background_.] + +Curse him! He rules me with a rod of red-hot iron! I wish I had him +here now! By the gods! I'd take courage for once; I'd tackle him with +my tongue--like my wife. I'd say-- + + +GOUROC. + +[_Advancing coolly_.] + +Well, Citizen,--you'd say--? + + +POTIN. + +[_Aside, startled_.] + +The devil take you! + + +GOUROC. + +What would you say? + + +POTIN. + +Nothing!--anything!--everything! + + +GOUROC. + +That's lucky!--I have much for you to say before the day is done. The +trial of the Duke will soon begin. When asked who gave you the order +for the Duke's arrest, you must swear that it was Paul Kauvar who did +so. + + +POTIN. + +Why, Lord help me! 'Twas you who gave me the order, and forced me to +carry it, too. + + +GOUROC. + +Possibly; but, in spite of that, my name must not be mentioned in the +affair, to any one, do you hear? + + +POTIN. + +Alas, I do! + + +GOUROC. + +And will swear as I command? + + +POTIN. + +[_With sudden resolution_.] + +Never! + + +GOUROC. + +Do you care to save your head? + + +POTIN. + +Of course! What could I do without it? + + +GOUROC. + +If you refuse to attest as I have dictated, I will declare you guilty +of treason in trying to conceal the presence of the Duke in Paris. +Such a declaration from me is sure perdition to you. How say you now: +will you swear? + + +POTIN. + +[_Wilting_.] + +I will swear. + + +GOUROC. + +You are wise. + +[_Going_.] + +Within an hour, the trial comes on. Be at hand, or-- + +[_Making a sign across his throat_.] + +There's nothing like this to quiet a traitor's tongue. + +[_Exit_. + + +POTIN. + +[_Looking after him_.] + +To lie living, and be a coward--or to lie dead, and be a corpse; +that's the riddle.--No! I'll be neither a coward nor a corpse. I'll +run away!--run like a brave man, enlist in the army of Vendée, and so +escape damnation, and my wife. + +[_Starts off_.] + +Liberty, lend thy wings that I may fly-- + +[NANETTE _appears_.] + +Ye gods!--Fate is false again! + + +NANETTE. + +Ha! It's you, is it? + + +POTIN. + +No, it was me; but now you're here, I'm nobody. + + +NANETTE. + +Where's the Duke? + + +POTIN + +[_Pointing_.] + +In that cell. + + +NANETTE. + +And I believe 'twas you betrayed him! + + +POTIN. + +[_Indignantly_.] + +That's a lie! + + +NANETTE. + +Well said! Short and sharp, like the truth. + +[_She pats_ POTIN _on the back. He turns away_.] + +Bravo!--But one moment! Do you know who did betray him? + +[POTIN _shakes his head mournfully_.] + +You do know! I can see by the wag of your head you know, and I mean +to make you tell me!--But I can't stop now; I'm here to see Mam'selle +Diane; where is she? + + +POTIN. + +[_Pointing to cell_.] + +There--with her father. + + +NANETTE. + +I'll be back soon, and then I'll give you a piece of my mind. + + +POTIN. + +Give me peace if you like, dear, but keep the mind for yourself; +you've none to spare. + + +NANETTE. + +Woe to you when next we meet! + +[_She flounces out_. + + +POTIN. + +Yes, it's woe to me whene'er we meet!--But now to fly; I've no time +to lose; between my wife and Gouroc, I shall go cracked. So here's for +liberty, and Vendée! + +[_Exit into his room_. + +_Enter_ GOUROC, _followed by_ GUARDS _escorting_ MARDOCHE. + + +GOUROC. + +[_To_ GUARDS.] + +You may leave the prisoner with me. + +[_Exit_ GUARDS.] + +And so, Mardoche, you have been tried and condemned. + + +MARDOCHE. + +Yes. Accused by beasts, tried by fools, and condemned by assassins. + + +GOUROC. + +And of what were you accused? + + +MARDOCHE. + +I was a quiet cobbler; I made shoes for Jacobins that pinched their +toes, so I was accused of sympathy with aristocrats. + + +GOUROC. + +Is this all the cry they raised against you? + + +MARDOCHE. + +No. I was never heard to swear, so I was watched--and was seen upon +my knees. As piety is poison to the Republic, I was accused of being a +priest! I was searched, and these were found upon me. + +[_Showing a crucifix and rosary_.] + +This was enough. I was immediately condemned to die. + + +GOUROC. + +A fine fool you were, to be caught with such baubles in your bosom. +Had you forgotten old mother Dupaix? + + +MARDOCHE. + +The old woman who never gossiped, wore clean linen, and kept four +cats? + + +GOUROC. + +The same--who was therefore accused of being a Duchess in disguise, +and sent to the guillotine. + + +MARDOCHE. + +Moral:--In this age of reason, death to him who prays! + + +GOUROC. + +Or keeps four cats! But cheer up, Citizen; I have a crumb of comfort +for you yet. In your cell someone is waiting impatiently to see you. + + +MARDOCHE. + +Who? + + +GOUROC. + +Your sister. + + +MARDOCHE. + +Great heavens! Of what do they accuse her? + + +GOUROC. + +Nothing. She is here by my care to bid you farewell.--Listen and +understand.--You are going to die, and leave your sister in poverty +amidst the perils of the Republic.--What would you be willing to do to +provide her with an independence? + + +MARDOCHE. + +I would do anything. I can do nothing. + + +GOUROC. + +You are mistaken. If you choose, before you die, you can place in her +hands 10,000 francs. + + +MARDOCHE. + +How? + + +GOUROC. + +By helping me to save another man's life. + + +MARDOCHE. + +I do not understand. + + +GOUROC. + +The Due de Beaumont has been discovered, and is about to be condemned. +For reasons of my own, I wish to save his life. There is but one way. +You, who are destined to die soon, must be disguised as the Duke, +answer to his name, and go to the scaffold in his stead. Consent to +do this--and you shall place in your sister's hands 10,000 francs in +gold. + + +MARDOCHE. + +What! That Jacobin of Jacobins, Gouroc, asks a cobbler to save a +Duke--? + + +GOUROC. + +Why not? The Republic is poor, the Duke is rich. He has been condemned +for our glory. But if his secret escape will bring us gold, why +not crown the Republic with riches as well as fame? Is not this +Patriotism? + + +MARDOCHE. + +Yes, Patriotism to-day! Yesterday and to-morrow--Jesuitism. + + +GOUROC. + +Well, your answer. Will you save the Duke? + + +MARDOCHE. + +[_After a pause_.] + +I will. + + +GOUROC. + +Good! In your cell you'll find everything for your disguise. + + +MARDOCHE. + +[_As howls are heard outside_.] + +Listen.--That is the voice of fraternity shrieking for fratricide! + + +GOUROC. + +By heaven! No cobbler talks as you do!--Who are you? What are you? + + +MARDOCHE. + +A victim--to present madness! An atonement--for past wrongs! A pledge +for future progress!--The Abbé de St. Simon. + + +GOUROC. + +Ha! As I suspected. + +[SOLDIERS _are heard approaching_.] + +Take care!--Hurry to your cell; they are coming for the Duke. + + +MARDOCHE. + +And my sister--? + + +GOUROC. + +You shall have the money at your parting. + + +MARDOCHE. + +Thus my death will bring her more than all the years I might have +lived to love her. [_Exit_. + + +OFFICER. + +[_Entering, followed by_ GUARDS, _and presenting paper to_ GOUROC.] + +An order for the person of Duc de Beaumont. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Looking at order_.] + +Correct.--There is his cell. + + +OFFICER. + +[_Reading from paper at the door of_ DUKE'S _cell_.] + +Honoré Albert Maxime, heretofore Duc de Beaumont, you are called for +trial for your life. In the name of the law, stand forth! + +_The_ DUKE _appears with_ DIANE _clinging to him, followed by_ +NANETTE. + + +DUKE. + +I am ready. + +[_The_ GUARDS _surround him_. + + +OFFICER. + +[_To_ DIANE.] + +Young woman, free your father; he must follow me alone. + + +DIANE. + +If he is guilty, then I am guilty. I have shared his prison; I claim +the right to share his scaffold. + + +OFFICER. + +You are not called, and cannot go with him. + + +DUKE. + +Courage, child! Remember who you are, and scorn to show these +miscreants what you feel. + +[_Putting her gently from his breast_.] + +We shall meet again.-- + +[_Turning to_ OFFICER.] + +Lead on, sir. + +[_The_ GUARDS _go off with the_ DUKE.--DIANE _falls into a chair near +table, overcome_. NANETTE _approaches her;_ GOUROC _waves her back_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Pointing to cell_.] + +Wait there, till you're wanted. + +[NANETTE _goes out sullenly_. GOUROC _draws near to_ DIANE.] + +At last I'm free to crave your pardon for the part I'm forced to play +in these dark days of tragedy.--Say you'll forgive me. + + +DIANE. + +I have nothing to forgive, sir.--You did not betray my father, and if +you dare to feel for such as we, then it is for the Republic to pardon +your secret treachery. + + +GOUROC. + +Always cruel, Mademoiselle. If you knew the truth, you could not wound +me with your scorn. + + +DIANE. + +[_Going_.] + +If my face offends you, I will go. + + +GOUROC. + +Stay, and be just.--I am the slave of a great purpose. I am fast +securing the ruin of the Republic. My affected zeal but masks the +well-aimed blows I strike at the enemies of our order.--Before many +weeks have past, Robespierre will go to the scaffold, the Jacobins be +ruined, and the Republic crushed.--To this great end I am content to +suffer anything, even your contempt, if need be. + + +DIANE. + +Yes, I despise all blows dealt in darkness. + + +GOUROC. + +Even though those very blows could save your father's life? + + +DIANE. + +[_Turning and staring at him_.] + +Save my father's life? + + +GOUROC. + +Yes; I hold it in my power to set your father free, and escape with +both of you to Vendée.--Say but the word and it is done. + + +DIANE. + +Tell me the word that I may speak it quickly. + + +GOUROC. + +You know the past.--My one wild dream was to win you as my wife. +Revolution came; I lost you in the chaos of the times; and when at +last I found you, a traitor had nearly caused your death. + + +DIANE. + +[_In anguish_.] + +No more, sir! No more! + + +GOUROC. + +But I can save you yet. + + +DIANE. + +Save my father! That is all I ask. + + +GOUROC. + +To save his life I must imperil my own. I am willing to do this, but-- + + +DIANE. + +[_Scornfully_.] + +You must have your price! + + +GOUROC. + +Yes--that price, the right to save and guard you as my wife. One word +of hope, and I am your slave forever. + + +DIANE. + +Such a word would be cruelty to you, and crime in me. + +[_She starts to go_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Seizing_ DIANE'S _hand_.] + +Hear me, I beg--beseech-- + +[_A bell tolls_.] + +Nay--I command!--Listen! + + +A VOICE. + +[_Calls slowly in the distance_.] + +Hubert, Marquis de Ferrand,--Comte de Vigny,--Duc de Beaumont---- + +[DIANE _turns in horror_. + + +GOUROC. + +Your father is called for trial! That means certain death. + + +DIANE. + +[_Kneeling_.] + +Save him!--I will pay the price with everything I have. + + +GOUROC + +I may hope? + + +DIANE. + +Yes! Take hope from my despair. + + +GOUROC. + +Then you will be my wife? + + +DIANE. + +When he and I are free. + + +GOUROC. + +Your father shall be saved!--I go to perfect all my plans. + +[_Kissing her hand_.] + +From this moment I am yours--body, mind and soul! + +[_Exit hurriedly_. + + +DIANE. + +When he has saved my father--death shall deliver me. + +[_Exit_. + + +POTIN _enters cautiously, with various things hidden under his +clothes, giving him a grotesque appearance_. + + +POTIN. + +Now, O Fate, is your chance to protect a patriot! If I can only get +away,--I shall escape perjury in Court, and tongue-lashing from my +wife!--Now to run!--To run for Vendée! Better the awful thunder of +masculine war than the piercing tenderness of a woman's tongue! + +[_Starting to run of, he begins to sing--to the tune of the +Marseillaise chorus:_] + +To leave--to leave my wife!-- + + +NANETTE. + +[_Rushing in and stopping him_.] + +Hold, Citizen Potin! + + +POTIN. + +[_Wilting_.] + +Oh, Republic, I am lost! + + +NANETTE. + +Dodolphe--you're up to mischief! Speak out--what's up? + + +POTIN. + +Patience, gentle lamb! + + +NANETTE. + +Don't lamb me, sir! + +[_Twisting him round_.] + +What's this mean? + +[_Tapping him_.] + +Porpoise! + +[_Pulling breeches from under his coat_.] + +Culottes! + +[_Pulling cap from his breast_.] + +Ye gods, what's this? + +[_Pulling hose from his pockets_.] + +By heaven! A woman's hose! + +[_Shaking hose in his face_.] + +What does this mean? + + +POTIN. + +Nothing, precious love! This is my uniform;--I have recruited for +Vendée. + + +NANETTE. + +You--a soldier? + + +POTIN. + +[_Posing_.] + +Yes: The safety of France demands it. I go to preserve the Republic! +France beckons--while Victory extends her arms, panting to embrace my +noble form! + + +NANETTE. + +Embrace ye? + +[_Putting his head under her arm_.] + +Let Victory try it if she dare! + + +TURNKEY. + +[_Entering with_ GUARD.] + +Citizen Potin, you are wanted as a witness. + + +POTIN. + +Caught!--From the frying-pan into the fire! + + +NANETTE. + +We shall meet again, my dear. + + +POTIN. + +Don't remind me now; I'm sick enough already. + +[_Enter_ PAUL KAUVAR. POTIN _starts at sight of him, and speaks to +the_ GUARD.] + +I'm ready; show the way. + + +PAUL. + +[_To_ POTIN.] + +Stop!--Thank heaven I have found you! Tell me, who ordered the Duke's +arrest? + + +POTIN. + +[_Sullenly_.] + +What I know of, that I'll tell only to the Court. + +[_Exit_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Turning to_ NANETTE, _who is going_.] + +Nanette, one word. + + +NANETTE. + +What word can an honest woman speak that you would care to hear? + + +PAUL. + +Justice!--I want that word, and all it signifies. + +[_Mob howls outside_. + + +NANETTE. + +Listen! Go to them--they'll give you justice, aye, and glory, for you +betrayed the innocent--to glut their appetite for blood. + + +PAUL. + +That's a lie--a vile, infamous, monstrous lie! + + +NANETTE. + +Is it a lie that you signed the warrant for the Duke's arrest? + + +PAUL. + +My name was forged. + + +NANETTE. + +I know your hand too well to be deceived. I've seen the warrant; it +bears your name, and written by yourself. + + +PAUL. + +Then it was obtained by some strange trick! I've tried to learn the +truth, but no one will tell me who took the warrant to the office of +the Guard. + + +NANETTE. + +I wish I could believe you. + + +PAUL. + +[_Forcing her to face him_.] + +And so you shall!--Do I look like the vilest of mankind? + + +NANETTE. + +No; in looks you're lucky! + + +PAUL. + +Would any man conspire to kill the wife he adores? + + +NANETTE. + +Why ask that? + + +PAUL. + +Because Diane de Beaumont is my wife. + + +NANETTE. + +Your wife? + + +PAUL. + +Yes! For me to betray her father would be to break her heart! Pain to +her is the anguish of the damned to me! Can you not see that I am--I +must be innocent? + + +NANETTE. + +In these days the fairest faces mask the foulest souls! Looks and +words prove nothing! Evidence alone will clear you of this crime. + + +PAUL. + +That--I have not been able to obtain. + + +NANETTE. + +Then get it quickly before it is too late. + + +PAUL. + +Where is Diane--my wife? + + +NANETTE. + +[_Pointing_.] + +There!--Praying for the father she believes you betrayed. + + +PAUL. + +No, she cannot! By the light of her own love she sees the innocence of +mine. + + +NANETTE. + +Then love is lunacy! + + +PAUL. + +Send her here to me! + + +NANETTE. + +She will not come. + + +PAUL. + +I'll stake my life she will! + + +NANETTE. + +You shall see. + +[_Exit_. + + +JEAN LITAIS _enters, watching_ PAUL _intently_. + + +PAUL. + +Two things at any cost I must accomplish! First, prove my innocence of +treachery, and save her father from the guillotine. + + +JEAN. + +[_Advancing_.] + +For that I came to help you. + + +PAUL. + +Who are you? + + +JEAN. + +Look well and you will see. + + +PAUL. + +I've seen your face before, but have forgotten where we met. + + +JEAN. + +I am Jean Litais. Six months ago, I was accused, and about to be +condemned. You saw--took pity--spoke in my behalf--and by your +eloquence saved my life! So now the life you saved, and all its +service, is yours to use, or forfeit as you please! A lion freed a +mouse--the mouse now comes to serve the lion. + + +PAUL. + +I do not understand. + + +JEAN. + +I am turnkey here, though once a servant of the Duke's. You love his +daughter; I can help her father to escape. + + +PAUL. + +How? + + +JEAN. + +[_Crossing to the door_.] + +This opens on a staircase leading to the river. Here's the key. I have +a boat below. To-night I'll creep up the stairs and knock three times. +Open, then, this door--and you'll find deliverance for those you love. + + +PAUL. + +[_Taking the key_.] + +How can I repay this deed? + + +JEAN. + +Trust me--that is all. + + +PAUL. + +[_Extending his hand_.] + +I will--I do! + + +JEAN. + +[_Kissing_ PAUL'S _hand_.] + +I'm yours in life or death. + +[_Goes to door_.] + +Till to-night! + +[_Exit_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Alone_.] + +Saved!--Thank God!--Their freedom in my hand!-- + +[_Pausing_.] + +And yet she does not come.--Can it be that she believes me +guilty--esteems me lower than the foulest worm? + +[_Enter_ DIANE.] + +No, no,--I was right! + +[_Going toward her_.] + +I knew you'd come. + + +DIANE. + +[_Checking him_.] + +Stop!--Let me look at you and say farewell. + + +PAUL. + +Then you really think me guilty? + + +DIANE. + +If an angel had accused you, I would say it was a lie. + + +PAUL. + +Diane! Diane!--My loyal wife! + +[_He embraces her_. + + +DIANE. + +[_Shrinking from him_.] + +No, no! I am not worthy of your love! I must save my father's life, no +matter what it costs me. + + +PAUL. + +Courage, dear heart! I hold here salvation for you both. + + +DIANE. + +You? + + +PAUL. + +Yes! This very night your father shall fly with us to England. + + +DIANE. + +Ah! Then I am free! I need owe him nothing! + + +PAUL. + +Owe whom nothing? + +[_The tramp of_ SOLDIERS _is heard outside_. + + +DIANE. + +Hark!--The Guard!--Take care! + +_Enter the_ DUKE, _with_ GUARD _and_ POTIN. + + +DUKE. + +[_Contemptuously to_ PAUL.] + +You here, traitor? + + +DIANE. + +[_Aside to the_ DUKE.] + +You must not call him that. He did not betray. The proof is this--that +he has come to save you. + + +DUKE. + +And so make my debt to him a means of reaching you;--but I would not +accept my life from hands unclean with treachery. + + +PAUL. + +There's not a drop of traitor's blood within my veins! + + +DUKE. + +Yet you signed the warrant for my arrest. + + +PAUL + +Then another hand than mine--unknown to me--filled in your name. + + +DUKE. + +Plausible trickster!--We have here double proof that you are guilty. + +[_Enter_ GOUROC _in background_.] + +The evidence of the man to whom you gave the warrant, commanding him +to take it to the Guard. + + +PAUL. + +There's no such man alive--or dead! + + +DUKE. + +Potin, advance. + +[POTIN _comes forward sullenly_.] + +Repeat what you swore in court.--From whom did you receive the warrant +for my arrest? + + +POTIN. + +[_After a struggle_.] + +I received it from-- + +[_Hesitates_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Aside to_ POTIN.] + +Take care!--If I denounce--you die! + + +DUKE. + +Well, sir, we are waiting. + + +POTIN. + +[_Desperately_.] + +I received it--[_Pointing at_ PAUL.] from him. + +[PAUL _recoils with horror_. DIANE, _with cry of agony, hides her face +upon her father's breast_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Crossing to_ POTIN.] + +Potin, look at me.--On your word hangs the honour of your old and +steadfast friend! Look in my eyes, and, in the name of your own +salvation, speak nothing but the truth. + + +DUKE. + +[_Sternly_.] + +'Tis useless to intimidate the witness. He will not prove himself +a perjurer, and condemn himself to death, even to please so dear a +friend as you. + + +PAUL. + +My God!--There is some wicked plot! + + +DUKE. + +Yes--and you're the plotter. + +[PAUL _falls prostrate into chair near table. Supporting_ DIANE _to +the door of his cell, the_ DUKE _pauses and speaks_.] + +Paul Kauvar, we shall never meet again.--Remember my last +words.--Beggars, thieves, assassins may escape perdition; but neither +here, nor hereafter, is there any hope for Judas. + +[_Exit, supporting_ DIANE. + +[NANETTE _follows the_ DUKE _off_. POTIN _goes into the opposite +cell_. GOUROC _crosses to_ PAUL. + + +GOUROC. + +How's this, old Comrade? I thought you were antique in the mastery of +your emotions.--A man of iron--firm as flint! + + +PAUL. + +Agony is fire that melts the mettle of the hardest man. + + +GOUROC. + +But why should you--a Jacobin--care for this old Duke? + + +PAUL. + +I loved his daughter--she became my wife. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Starting_.] + +What! Diane de Beaumont is your wife? + + +PAUL. + +Yes--has been my wife in secret--for six months. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Aside_.] + +So I have a double task! To save her--and kill her husband. + +[_Aloud_.] + +The same old story, Comrade, and as usual a woman mars the plot! You +were a patriot, till love enmeshed you in his magic web; then you +became the weakest of mankind--a husband. I am sorry, very sorry; but +Paul--my friend--if I can serve you now, I beg of you command me. + + +PAUL. + +Yes, you can serve me. You have been my friend--be more! + + +GOUROC. + +Your sorrow seems so deep, I swear I think I'd serve it--even at the +cost of conscience! Speak then, without fear. + + +PAUL. + +Help me to save the father of my wife!--See! This key opens yonder +door; to-night, at any moment, you may hear three knocks.--That signal +will be given by a man who will conduct you safely out of France. + + +GOUROC. + +A man that you can trust? + + +PAUL. + +To the death.--I saved his life. + + +GOUROC. + +But suppose the Duke is called before the signal comes!--I must go and +find some man to take his place. + +GOUROC _starts to go_. PAUL'S _face lights with a sudden resolution_. + + +PAUL. + +Stop! The man is found. + + +GOUROC. + +Who is he? + + +PAUL. + +The man they call a traitor--Paul Kauvar. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Suppressing a smile of surprise_.] + +You? + + +PAUL. + +Yes. When safely out of France, tell them of my fate. My death may +convince them I loved too deeply to betray. + +[_A bell begins to toll_. + + +A VOICE. + +[_In the distance_.] + +Hubert, Marquis de Ferrand,--Mardoche, alias the Abbé de St. Simon-- + + +GOUROC. + +They're calling the condemned; there's not an instant to be lost. + +[_Crossing to cell_.] + +In this cell there hangs an old man's coat and wig, kept here to +disguise the spies connected with the prison. Luckily they'll serve +your purpose well. + +[_Opening cell door_.] + +Quick!--Get ready to answer when the Duke is called. + + +PAUL. + +Tell my wife I died for love of her, and honour. + +[_Exit_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_In exultation_.] + +Thank luck!--This man's death clears my path, and saves the money I +meant to pay the Abbé. + +_Enter_ DIANE _and_ NANETTE. + + +DIANE. + +Where is he? I must see him once again!--Paul! Paul! + +[_Starting at sight of_ GOUROC.] + +Who's there? + + +GOUROC. + +Tis I! Here to save your father. + + +THE VOICE. + +[_Outside_.] + +Comte de Vigny,--André de la Roche-- + + +GOUROC. + +That's the last call of the condemned.--Your father's name stands next +upon the roll. + + +DIANE. + +Save him!--Save him! + + +GOUROC. + +Obey me instantly, or all is lost; hide quickly in this cell! Trust to +me and wait. + + +DIANE. + +[_Going with_ NANETTE _into a cell_.] + +God deal with you as you now deal with me! + +[_Exit_. + +_Tramp of_ GUARDS _outside_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Crossing to cell and calling_.] + +Kauvar!--Be quick!--stand ready. By heaven!--A close shave! + +OFFICER _and_ GUARDS _enter_. + + +OFFICER. + +[_Advancing_.] + +Honoré Albert Maxime, Duc de Beaumont, you are called to the +guillotine. + +[PAUL _comes forth in silence_.] + +Fall in.--Forward, march! + +[_As the_ GUARDS _start with_ PAUL, DIANE _rushes in with a cry of +agony_. + + +DIANE. + +Father!--Father!--We have been deceived! + +[DIANE _rushes into_ PAUL'S _arms; he embraces her passionately_. +GUARDS _force them apart and go out with_ PAUL.] + +[_Held back by_ GOUROC _and_ NANETTE, DIANE _shrieks_.] + +Father--father! + + +DUKE. + +[_Entering_.] + +Diane!--What is it? + + +DIANE. + +[_Turning in amazement and joy_.] + +What!--You are there? + + +GOUROC. + +Yes, saved by me. + + +DIANE. + +And he--? Who was he they dragged away? + + +GOUROC. + +A man condemned to die--whom I disguised--to take your father's place. + + +DIANE. + +[_Falling on her knees_.] + +O God! Spare this man all pain in death--and give him life eternal! + + +CURTAIN. + + + + +ACT III. + +SCENE. _Headquarters of Royalists in Vendée. Interior of hall in old +chateau. Fireplace; large doorways with staircase leading to terrace, +overlooking Granville; Faubourg de Calvaire in middle ground. Doors +from hall. Bay window with large table covered with papers, maps, etc. +Charts near table and fireplace_. + +DISCOVERED: SENTINEL _on terrace_; LA HOGUE _seated at the table busy +with papers_. + +_At rise of curtain--drums and fifes heard in distance_. + +DENISE _enters, goes to terrace, gazes anxiously, then turns and +crosses quickly to_ LA HOGUE. + + +DENISE. + +[_Shouting loudly_.] + +Monsieur La Hogue! + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Gruffly_.] + +Well? + + +DENISE. + +Do you hear? + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Impatiently_.] + +Hear what? + + +DENISE. + +The drums and piccolos yonder. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Listening_.] + +I can hear nothing. + +[_Drums, etc., sound more loud_. + + +DENISE. + +But listen now, it grows louder--up from Ville d'Avranches. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Starting up_.] + +D'Avranches?--Ha! Re-inforcements for the Kings' army! None too soon! + +[_Drums, etc., cease_.] + +[_Enter an_ ORDERLY, _who presents papers_. LA HOGUE _takes papers, +reads, and exclaims_.] The Count de Parame with recruits! + +[_To the_ ORDERLY.] + +Tell your Colonel to report here instantly! General de la +Rochejacquelein [_Enter_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] is indignant at his +delay, and-- + + +LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN. + +[_To_ LA HOGUE.] + +Gently, old friend! La Rochejacquelein will speak for himself. + +[_To_ ORDERLY.] + +Ask the Count to honour me with his presence here as speedily as +possible. + +[_Exit_ ORDERLY.] + +Now these re-inforcements have arrived, we'll give these rebels +battle. + + +LA HOGUE. + +At last, thank God! And we're ready for the fight. + +[_Pointing_.] + +In the Faubourg de Calvaire there's hardly a house but harbours a +detachment of our men. + + +LA ROCHE. + +With that village in our hands we'll bring Granville town to terms. +To-night we will assault the place at every point. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Reverently_.] + +And God in mercy aid King Louis' men! + + +LA ROCHE _and_ DENISE. [_Together_.] + +Amen! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_To_ LA HOGUE.] + +Await the Count upon the terrace, and take him to my private room. But +no roughness to the Colonel--try to be charming for a change. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Bah! Leave charmers to women,--only fighters win at war! + +[_Exit_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_To_ DENISE.] + +How long since you have heard from Jean Litais? + + +DENISE. + +Not since he, my lover, went to Paris to aid the Duc de Beaumont to +escape. + + +LA ROCHE. + +This fiendish reign of terror has prevented me from hearing of the +Duke till now. + + +DENISE. + +And you have heard--? + + +LA ROCHE. + +The worst of news! Among some papers captured in a skirmish, I found +this journal, [_Producing paper_.] printed at Paris some three months +ago. It contains a list of those beheaded the preceding day.--See this +name I've underlined. + + +DENISE. + +[_Reading_.] + +"The Duc de Beaumont." + +_Enter a MAN from panel in wall up stage_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Guillotined at night, upon the tenth of last October. + + +DENISE. + +My God! If Jean has failed to save the Duke, he must be dead himself! + + +THE MAN. + +[_Advancing_.] + +Not yet! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Turning quickly_.] + +Who's this? + + +DENISE. + +It's Jean!-- + +[_Rushing into his arms_.] + +My Jean returned! + + +LA ROCHE. + +Litais!--Is it really you? + + +JEAN. + +Every bit of me, my lord. + + +DENISE. + +Thank heaven! + + +LA ROCHE. + +How did you pass the guard? + + +JEAN. + +Faith, I know every corner of the old chateau. No guard could bar +my way while I'd such news to bring! The Duke and his daughter are +here--in the park. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Alive and safe--? + + +JEAN. + +As you are!--Grant me a guard to bring them through our lines. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Strikes a bell_.] + +[_Enter_ ORDERLY, _who salutes_.] + +See that Monsieur and his friends have safe passage through our lines. + + +ORDERLY _crosses stage and stands at door_. + + +JEAN. + +In an instant we'll return.--Come, Denise; you shall see your old +master once again. + + +DENISE. + +And never let you leave my side while I have life to love you. + +[_Exeunt_ DENISE, JEAN _and_ ORDERLY, _who salutes_ GUARD _before +departing. Tumult in distance_.] + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Entering_.] + +The Count is here and anxious for the fight. + +[LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN, _listening, pays no attention_. LA HOGUE _speaks +impatiently_.] + +Do you hear? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes, I hear a tumult yonder! Can it be mutiny--revolt? + +[_Enter_ SECOND ORDERLY. _He presents paper to_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN, +_who reads it aloud_.] + +"Have captured Jacobin soldiers. The peasants demand their lives. +Shall I surrender them or hold them at your pleasure? La Val--Captain +of King's Guards." + +[_To_ LA HOGUE _eagerly_.] + +We may obtain information from these fellows. See La Val at once, +command him to guard his prisoners with his life, and send them here +to me. + + +LA HOGUE. + +But the Count is awaiting orders for to-night's attack. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Going_.] + +While you see La Val, I'll see the Count. + +[_Exit_. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_To_ ORDERLY.] + +To Captain La Val! + +[_Exit quickly with_ ORDERLY. + + +SENTINEL. + +[_Outside_.] + +Who goes there? + + +JEAN. + +[_Outside_.] + +A friend! + + +SENTINEL. + +[_Outside_.] + +Advance with countersign. + +ORDERLY _advances, salutes the_ SENTINEL, _whispers in his ear, then +steps back against balustrade of terrace as characters enter.--When +characters are on,_ ORDERLY _salutes_ SENTINEL, _who returns salute_. +ORDERLY _goes out_. SENTINEL _about faces and disappears_. + +_Enter_ JEAN, DENISE, GOUROC, NANETTE, DUKE, AND DIANE. + + +JEAN. + +[_To the_ DUKE.] + +You're safe at last, Monsieur, among your friends. + + +DIANE. + +[_Grasping_ JEAN'S _hand_.] + +Thanks to your devotion. + + +DENISE. + +[_To the_ DUKE.] + +I will announce your coming to the General. + +[_Exit_. + + +NANETTE. + +[_To_ DIANE.] + +Here, child, be seated, and taste comfort once again. + +[DIANE _sits near the fire; the_ DUKE _and_ GOUROC _at table_.] + +Now try to smile a bit. + + +DIANE. + +I have forgotten how. + +[_Calling_.] + +Jean! + + +JEAN. + +[_Crossing to_ DIANE.] + +Yes, Madame? + + +DIANE. + +Hush! Do not let my father hear you call me Madame. + +[_Converses aside with_ JEAN. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Taking a newspaper from table_.] + +Strange!--a Paris journal, dated the day after our escape. + + +DUKE. + +[_Taking the paper_.] + +There may be some notice of our flight. + +[_Reads_. + + +JEAN. + +[_To_ DIANE.] + +Will you never confess your marriage to Kauvar? + + +DIANE. + +Never!--Unless he finds us with evidence of innocence none can +question. + + +JEAN. + +He will! We can trust the wit of his deep love for that. + + +DIANE. + +So you believe him innocent? + + +JEAN. + +As innocent as my own sweetheart, dear Denise. + +[DIANE _weeps_.] + +What--tears, Madame? + + +DIANE. + +Tears of triumph--that your heart echoes mine! Ah, Jean, we two, +alone, of all the world, believe he's not a traitor. + + +DUKE. + +Here's a list of martyrs slaughtered the day that we escaped. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Taking the paper_.] + +And here's a name underlined with ink. + +[_Starting up with great joy_.] + +By heaven, your own!--See!--In the list of fallen heads--the Duc de +Beaumont! + +[_The_ DUKE _takes paper_. + + +DIANE. + +[_Coming toward_ GOUROC.] + +You speak of the man who took my father's place, as though you exulted +in his death!--Was he an enemy of yours? + + +GOUROC. + +I rejoice that the man's disguise was not discovered--for the report +of your father's death prevented our pursuit. + + +DUKE. + +[_Joyfully to_ GOUROC.] + +You remember the Abbé de St. Simon? + + +GOUROC. + +Yes. He was condemned to die with you. + + +DUKE. + +This journal says that he escaped from the death-cart as it rumbled to +the scaffold through the crowd. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Starting, and with great emphasis_.] + +Impossible! + + +DUKE. + +[_Holding out the paper_.] + +See for yourself! + +[GOUROC _takes paper eagerly_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Entering, with a cry of joy_.] + +Duke! + + +DUKE. + +[_Holding out his arms_.] + +Henri! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Embracing the_ DUKE.] + +In days of misery, a moment such as this is sweet indeed. But how did +you escape? I saw your name among the guillotined. + + +DUKE. + +[_Turning to_ GOUROC.] + +This gentleman wrought a way for our deliverance!--Monsieur le Marquis +de Vaux. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Grasping_ GOUROC'S _hand_.] + +Monsieur--the King's friends are all your debtors. + + +GOUROC. + +Nay, sir, the debt is mine. Tis a privilege to save such precious +lives. + + +DUKE. + +[_Presenting_ DIANE.] + +Here's a lass you played with, years ago. + + +LA ROCHE. + +What!--My little cousin--grown so stately and so sad! Mademoiselle, I +claim a kinsman's right to kiss away these shadows. + + +DIANE. + +And I yield the right with pleasure, cousin Henri. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Kisses her_.] + +Good cheer, sweet cousin! You are now protected by the soldiers of the +King, who--God willing--will punish those who brought this shadow to +your face. + + +GOUROC. + +That may not prove an easy task! Granville is overrun with rebels, who +are urged to most atrocious crimes by Carrac. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes--Thomas Carrac--a brutal monster, reeking with loyal blood; a +loathsome anarchist, who glories in the vilest deeds. + + +GOUROC. + +Ravishing without remorse the daughters of our race. + + +LA ROCHE. + +If we could capture wretches such as he, it might end our civil war. + + +DIANE. + +Is he so hard to take? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes. Reptiles are worse to overcome than lions. They bite unseen, and +escape by crawling. This Carrac is brave in words, but too craven +to face fighting in the field. Our soldiers rarely reach these civil +sinners. + + +DUKE. + +Let us forget them here. For now we will task your hospitality for a +time. + + +LA ROCHE. + +I swear I have not felt the poverty that war entails till now. My +old chateau has been dismantled--this hall alone is habitable. I feel +ashamed to offer you such shabby quarters. + + +DUKE. + +Nay, cousin, a bed of stones with friends is better than a bed of down +with those we do not love. + + +DENISE. + +[_Entering, speaks to_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] + +A couch and fire are ready in the room that was your mother's. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_To_ DIANE.] + +Where doubtless you'll be glad to take some rest. + + +DIANE. + +I confess the need, Monsieur. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Denise, show the way. + +[DENISE _crosses to the door_. + + +DIANE. + +[_At the door_.] + +Till to-night, kind friends. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Till then, good rest. + +[DIANE _courtesies and goes out with_ NANETTE.] + +Gentlemen, I pray you, make yourselves at home; important business +claims my time.--I'll rejoin you within an hour. + + +DUKE. + +We're here to help, not mar the cause; command us in all ways. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Presently!--Till then the poor old house is yours. + +[_Exit_. + +[_Exit_ JEAN. + + +DUKE. + +[_Sitting near the fire_.] + +At last, praise God! We're out of reach of traitors! + + +GOUROC. + +Not yet!--The rebel hosts have gathered here at Granville in great +force. They may rout the royal army, and capture all of us. + + +DUKE. + +No, not all, for I shall die first, fighting in the ranks. + + +GOUROC. + +But Diane, your daughter--? + + +DUKE. + +Must take the chances of a soldier's child. + + +GOUROC. + +You forget her peril from this scoundrel, Carrac.--Why not put her +safely out of the reach of such a brute? + + +DUKE. + +How? + + +GOUROC. + +There are vessels here by which we can escape to England. + + +DUKE. + +I fly no further. I owe the King and country service here. + + +GOUROC. + +Then let Diane go with me to friends in London. When I've found for +her safe asylum, I'll return to do my duty at your side. + + +DUKE. + +The daughter of a peer of France could hardly go so far without +protection worthy of her rank. + + +GOUROC. + +That she can secure as a Marquise, and my wife. + +[_The_ DUKE _turns quickly in surprise_.] + +I know, dear Duke, that you are richer, nobler than myself, but then +the love I bear your daughter, together with the dangers that surround +her life and honour here-- + + +DUKE. + +Say no more!--There's nothing that would ease my mind so much as to +see Diane your wife. + + +GOUROC. + +Then plead my cause with her. + + +DUKE. + +I'll more than plead.--Her perils urge me to command this marriage. + + +GOUROC. + +Then do not lose a moment; the attack begins to-night. Before our army +strikes, she and I, as man and wife, should sail for England. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Entering_.] + +Monsieur, your daughter desires a word with you--[_Glancing at_ +GOUROC.] alone. + + +DUKE. + +Say I'll see her here at once. + +[_Exit_ NANETTE.] + +I'll broach this marriage to my child without delay. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Going_.] + +I'll be at hand in case you call me. + +[_Exit_. + + +DUKE. + +[_Alone_.] + +This alliance secures Diane from peril. The Marquis is young, +noble,--has saved her life, and has a claim on it. She must marry +while there's time to get away. + +[_Enter_ DIANE.] + +Now, dear child, what is it? + + +DIANE. + +Father, I loathe this useless life of mine! I long for +action--danger--anything that stirs the blood, and brings oblivion. + + +DUKE. + +Oblivion!--Nay, Diane, I have something happier to suggest than that. +Time and circumstance commend to you a marriage. We owe our lives to +the wisdom of a man who seeks your hand to-day. + + +DIANE. + +The Marquis?--[_After a pause_.] I cannot marry, for I do not love +him. + + +DUKE. + +Then 'tis time you did. + + +DIANE. + +No more, I beg of you.--It is impossible! + + +DUKE. + +Impossible! When prompted by the wisdom of a father's love? When your +escape from peril and my peace of mind demand it? + + +DIANE. + +I cannot argue. + + +DUKE. + +Then at least explain. + + +DIANE. + +Alas, I dare not. + + +DUKE. + +You fear mere frankness with your truest friend? + +[DIANE _sinks into a chair and hides her face. The_ DUKE _looks at her +with suspicion_.] + +By heaven! You hide your face as though to speak implied dishonour. + + +DIANE. + +No, no! It is not that! + + +DUKE. + +Then why torture me with this concealment? Have I been cruel, or +faithless as a father? + + +DIANE. + +Never! + + +DUKE. + +Then I claim a father's sacred right to confidence. Give me one good +reason why you refuse the man to whom we owe our lives? + + +DIANE. + +I love another. + + +DUKE. + +[_Starting_.] + +Another! + +[_After a pause_.] + +His name--? + + +DIANE. + +What matter, since we shall never meet again? + + +DUKE. + +I understand at last!--'Tis Paul Kauvar! + +[DIANE _bows her head_.] + +So! The saviour of your father's life is scorned for his betrayer! No +wonder that you blush to own it! This makes my course more clear. The +safest cure for this disgraceful love will be your marriage. + + +DIANE. + +That cannot be! + + +DUKE. + +[_Going_.] + +I say it shall! + + +DIANE. + +[_Startled_.] + +Where are you going? + + +DUKE. + +To seek the priest! Delay is dangerous! You wed to-day and sail +to-night for England. + + +DIANE. + +No, no! Have pity! I have no right to marry. + + +DUKE. + +[_In horror_.] + +No right? + + +DIANE. + +[_Falling at his feet_.] + +I am a wife already. + + +DUKE. + +His wife?--You, my flesh and blood, a traitor's wife!--Oh God! What +have I done to merit such a blow as this? + + +DIANE. + +Father,--forgive! Hear me! + + +DUKE. + +[_Flinging her off, rushes to the door_.] + +Henri, Marquis--here! All of you! + +[_Enter_ LA HOGUE, LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN, GOUROC, JEAN _and_ DENISE.] + +[_To_ LA ROCHE.] + +Call your guards! Drag this woman away! Fling her to these rebel +dogs--for she is one of them! + + +GOUROC. + +What has she done? + + +DUKE. + +Deceived a father's love! Become the mate of my betrayer. + +[_Turning on_ DIANE.] + +Degraded remnant of my race!--Go! Back to your own, wife of a Sans +Culotte! + + +GOUROC. + +[_Stepping between them_.] + +Stay! There must be some mistake! + + +DUKE. + +No! She has confessed that she's the wife of Paul Kauvar. + + +GOUROC. + +That cannot be, for Paul Kauvar is dead. + + +DUKE. + +Dead? How do you know that? + + +GOUROC. + +Because he, disguised, took your place on the guillotine. + + +DIANE. + +[_Rising_.] + +My God! + + +DUKE. + +What! I owe my life to him? + + +GOUROC. + +He died to atone his treachery to you. + + +DIANE. + +Traitors do not die to save their victims! His life was noble! His +death sublime! + +[_To the_ DUKE.] + +You have foully wronged the man who bravely met a martyr's death for +you!--have scorned and spurned me from your side, because I was his +wife. You have disowned me--I now disown you! + +[_Turning, she goes swiftly up the steps to the terrace_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Where are you going? + + +DIANE. + +Back to the Sans Culottes! + + +DUKE. + +Diane!--Daughter! + + +DIANE. + +No! Not your daughter--but his wife! No longer Diane de Beaumont--but, +thank God,--Diane Kauvar! + + +CURTAIN. + + + + +ACT IV. + +SCENE. _Same as Act III_.--DUKE _discovered seated in attitude of +despair_.--GOUROC _standing near mantel_.--LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _enters +sadly_. + + +DUKE. + +[_Rising anxiously_.] + +What news? + + +LA ROCHE. + +None. + +[_The_ DUKE _sinks back into chair_. + + +GOUROC. + +Then she has positively escaped? + + +LA ROCHE. + +While we stood dazed with horror at her words--she vanished. Our +soldiers have searched, but can find no trace of her. + + +DUKE. + +[_Starting up_.] + +I will find her! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Barring his way_.] + +This is madness. + + +DUKE. + +Let me pass! + + +LA ROCHE. + +Hear me! + + +DUKE. + +While I listen, she is lost!--An army shall not stop me. + +[_Breaks from him towards door_. + + +DENISE. + +[_Entering joyfully_.] + +She is found! + + +ALL. + +Found? + + +DENISE. + +Yes. Jean tracked her,--they are bringing her here. + + +JEAN. + +[_Entering_.] + +General, I have not failed. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Grasping his hand_.] + +You never do. + + +LA HOGUE _enters first, followed by two_ GUARDS, _whom he directs +to the entrance at top of steps_.--DIANE _enters, followed by two_ +GUARDS. + + +DIANE. + +[_To_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] + +By what authority, Monsieur, am I arrested? + + +DUKE. + +By mine. I am your father. + + +DIANE. + +My marriage has set me free of parental rule. I claim the right to fly +from those who have defamed my noble husband. General, command your +soldiers to release me! + + +GOUROC. + +No!--You shall not go. + + +DIANE. + +What will prevent me? + + +GOUROC. + +The force of your own honour. + + +DIANE. + +Honour commands me to return to my husband's friends. + + +GOUROC. + +Honour commands you to keep your word with me. + +[DIANE _starts and turns away_.] + +You promised, if I saved your father, and you were free, you'd be my +wife.--I have done my part, you must do yours. + + +DIANE. + +[_Passionately, to_ GOUROC.] + +Now I understand your joy when you read of the beheadal of the man who +took my father's place!--You knew he was my husband. + + +GOUROC. + +I did. + + +DIANE. + +You planned his death to free and force me to this marriage. + + +GOUROC. + +I did not learn that you were his wife till he was going to the +guillotine.--Then he told me all, confiding you to my care. I promised +him I'd shield you from all peril.--I but keep my word with him, in +asking you to keep your word with me. + + +DIANE. + +So you would wed the widow of a Sans Culotte? + + +GOUROC. + +Your husband was my friend; I knew and honoured him. + + +DIANE. + +Ah, you believe, then, that Potin lied when he declared he got the +warrant for the Duke's arrest from Paul Kauvar? + + +GOUROC. + +I now believe that your husband was the victim of a trick. + + +DIANE. + +Then swear--before those who have heard the dead defamed--swear that +you believe my husband was innocent of infamy. + + +GOUROC. + +[_With deep sincerity_.] + +As I hope for mercy from my God, I believe that Paul Kauvar was +guiltless of dishonour. + + +DIANE. + +[_Impressed with his sincerity_.] + +Then his widow swears to keep her word with you. + +[_She extends her hand to_ GOUROC. + +LA HOGUE _crosses, up steps, to_ GUARDS, _and directs them silently to +exit.--They about-face, and go out_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Aside, triumphantly kissing_ DIANE'S _hand_.] + +At last! + +[_Howls of execration outside_.] + +What is that? + + +LA ROCHE. + +The mob howling at some captured rebels. + +[_Enter_ ORDERLY, _who presents paper_.] + +[_Reading paper_, LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _speaks to_ ORDERLY.] + +Conduct the prisoner here. + +[_Exit_ ORDERLY.] + +[_Turning to_ DIANE.] + +Cousin, I must ask you to retire. We have secret business to transact. + + +DUKE. + +[_Giving_ DIANE _his arm_.] + +We will await you in my daughter's room. + +[_To_ GOUROC.] + +Marquis, we can complete the plans for your marriage and escape to +England. + +[_Exeunt_ DIANE, DUKE, JEAN, DENISE _and_ GOUROC. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Aside, as he goes out_.] + +Now I know that I shall triumph! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_To_ LA HOGUE.] + +When and where were these prisoners secured? + + +LA HOGUE. + +At dawn this morning, in the centre of the Faubourg. They fought like +fiends! Their leader is a veritable lion.--Though overcome by numbers, +he don't seem conquered in the least!--Hang my hide! I cannot help but +like him! + +[_Howls renewed outside_. + + +ORDERLY. + +[_Entering_.] + +The prisoner is here, General. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Bring him in. + +[ORDERLY _beckons.--Yells outside_. GUARDS _enter and form on terrace +behind entrance.--Enter_ PRISONER, _who strides haughtily in_.] + +[_To_ ORDERLY.] + +Retire and guard the doors. + +[ORDERLY _right-faces_.--GUARD _goes of with_ ORDERLY.] + +[_Politely to_ PRISONER.] + +I see, sir, you're an officer. + + +PRISONER. + +Yes.--Captain of Volunteers in the ranks of the Republic. + + +LA ROCHE. + +To what corps do you belong? + + +PRISONER. + +Kleber's--who waits upon the banks of the river to cut off your +retreat. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Smiling_.] + +We do not propose to retreat, but to advance. + + +PRISONER. + +Before another day you will be driven, routed, into the heart of +Vendée. + + +LA ROCHE. + +If boasting wins, your side will doubtless better ours. + + +PRISONER. + +If blows win--your side is sure to fail. You've not a regiment that's +trained better than a pack of boys! + + +LA HOGUE. + +I wish he were a liar, but he isn't. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Our boys struck hard enough, it seems, to capture you. + + +PRISONER. + +We were ten, surprised by a battalion, and yet it cost you nearly +fifty of your friends to take but ten of us. + + +LA HOGUE. + +There he goes again riddling us with facts. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Sir,--you know there is no quarter given to traitors found in arms +against the King. + + +PRISONER. + +France has no sovereign but the people.--It is you who are the +traitors. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Answer civilly and I may show you mercy. + + +PRISONER. + +I neither ask, nor accept mercy. I have done my best to deal a +crushing blow to you.--So call your guards, and shoot me without more +waste of words. + + +LA ROCHE. + +I see that you are brave. + + +PRISONER. + +Brave? Because I'm not afraid to die? + +[_Laughs bitterly_.] + +Bah! It takes more courage sometimes to consent to live. + + +LA ROCHE. + +You are young, a Frenchman, and--though misled--a credit to your +country. If you'll give me some excuse, I swear I'd rather spare your +life. + + +PRISONER. + +[_Laughing_.] + +Thank you, General; but frankly, I'd rather give you some excuse to +take it. + +_Tremendous explosion heard in the distance. Then a second explosion. +The Faubourg in middle ground is blown up and is seen to burn into a +blaze_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +My God!--See!--The Faubourg! + + +PRISONER. + +[_Triumphantly_.] + +Blown up and burning!--In an hour the houses that were to shelter your +attack on our defenses will be gone, and you will have to fight our +forces in the open field.--That means defeat for you. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Sacristi! Gag this rogue, or we'll be whipped before we fight. + +LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _writes hastily, and strikes a bell. Enter GOUROC, +who starts and goes out again with a gesture of menace towards the_ +PRISONER. _Enter_ ORDERLY. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_To_ ORDERLY.] + +Despatch these orders instantly, and send a guard with loaded muskets +here at once. + +[_Exit_ ORDERLY.] + +[_Turning despondently to_ LA HOGUE.] + +I fear this is a death-blow to our plans to-night. + + +PRISONER. + +A death-blow dealt by me!--You'd better kill me quickly before I do +more damage. + + +LA ROCHE. + +You are right, sir; I should be faithless to my King if I showed you +mercy now. + + +PRISONER. + +Bravo! Mercy to enemies is as base as cruelty to friends. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Damn me! There's no fun in killing such a fool--he seems to like it! + +[_Enter_ ORDERLY _with_ GUARDS. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_To_ ORDERLY.] + +Take the prisoner outside and shoot him there at once. + +[GUARD _crosses to_ PRISONER.] + +Have you any last request? + + +PRISONER. + +But one.--You have shown me the kindness of an honest-hearted man. +War has made us enemies, but, in the presence of the peace of death, +I would like to feel that as Frenchmen we are friends, and ask one +parting grasp from you. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Grasps his hand_.] + +With all my heart!--May we meet like this above. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_With emotion_.] + +Curse these youngsters, they make me snivel like a fool. + +[_He blows his nose furiously. + +The_ PRISONER _bows, takes his place in the platoon of_ GUARDS, _who +begin to march off. When they are on the terrace_, LA HOGUE _suddenly +cries out_. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Halt!-- + +[ORDERLY _about-faces and waits for orders_.] + +You have not given us your name. + + +PRISONER. + +I prefer to let it die with me. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Hang it, sir! Courage is glorious even in a rebel rascal like +yourself. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Some friend may be glad to know how fearlessly you met your fate. + + +PRISONER. + +The only ears I'd care to reach would rather never hear my name again. + + +LA HOGUE. + +But curse your stubbornness! I want to know your name myself. Can't +you be civil as well as brave? + + +PRISONER. + +[_Laughing_.] + +Well, then, to please your gentle highness, I must give it. I am +Captain on the Staff of General Kleber--Captain Kauvar. + + +LA ROCHE _and_ LA HOGUE. + +[_Starting_.] + +Kauvar? + + +PAUL. + +Yes--Captain Paul Kauvar. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Turning amazed to_ LA HOGUE.] + +What do you think of this? + + +LA HOGUE. + +That if I had a regiment of Paul Kauvar's, I'd conquer Europe. + + +LA ROCHE. + +My cousin's husband was guillotined. There's some mistake. + +[_To_ GUARD.] + +Leave the prisoner, and wait outside for orders. + + +PAUL. + +[_Stopping the_ GUARD.] + +Stay!-- + +[ORDERLY _waits for further orders_.] + +[_To_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] + +General, I beg of you to spare me further waiting.--Make an end of +this. + + +LA ROCHE. + +When I have questioned you again. + + +PAUL. + +I shall refuse to answer further questions. + + +LA ROCHE. + +I may find a way to break your silence. + + +PAUL. + +I swear you cannot do it. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Motions_ GUARDS _to go_.] + +[ORDERLY _about-faces, goes on to terrace_. GUARDS _then march off_.] + +We shall see! You've given a name that's not your own. + +[PAUL _starts, but remains silent_.] + +Paul Kauvar was guillotined the night of the ninth of May. + +[PAUL _turns, amazed but silent_.] + +He died to save my kinsman, the Duc de Beaumont. + +[PAUL, _about to speak, checks himself_.] + +He was the husband of my cousin. + + +PAUL. + +[_Exploding_.] + +Diane--your cousin? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Ha! I thought I'd make you speak. + + +PAUL. + +[_Eagerly_.] + +You know her?--She has escaped?--Is safe?--alive?--happy? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Oh, ho!--So you would turn the tables--question me? + + +PAUL. + +Is she alive and well?--I ask to know but this. + + +LA ROCHE. + +I'll tell you more, if you will answer first my questions. + + +PAUL. + +All!--that do not force me to betray my cause. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Explain!--You escaped the guillotine? + + +PAUL. + +The story is too long. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Make it brief, but answer. + + +PAUL. + +In the death-cart I found a priest confessing those about him. He +questioned me, soon saw that I was not the Duke. "My child," he +said, "I die to-day, but as a priest shall be the last to mount the +scaffold.--Let me take your place, assume the same disguise, while you +slip from the cart and live." At first I refused, as I no longer cared +for life! But when he said Diane might not escape unless I lived to +aid her, I yielded.--The night was cloudy. When the moon was hidden, +the priest put on my coat and wig, and as the death-cart neared the +scaffold, I slipped through its slatted floor, and in the darkness +mingled with the crowd. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Who was the holy man who set you free? + + +PAUL. + +The Abbé de St. Simon. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Strange! We heard the Abbé had escaped. + + +PAUL. + +He answered when the Duke was called and so was guillotined; but when +the Abbé's turn had come, they could not find him, and so gave out +that he'd escaped. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes, I understand it now.--Proceed! + + +PAUL. + +I found Diane had gone, believing I was guilty of a most ignoble +crime. Too sick at heart to follow her, I enlisted and, seeking death, +obtained promotion to my present grade. + + +LA ROCHE. + +What if your willingness to die to save her father had convinced Diane +that you were innocent, and had taught her a deeper love for you? + + +PAUL. + +Ah! Then life would be worth living once again!--Can you have heard +from her--seen her? + + +LA ROCHE. + +You can see her for yourself--save your own life--and bring boundless +joy to hers. + + +PAUL. + +How? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Espouse our cause! + + +PAUL. + +What!--Betray my country? + + +LA ROCHE. + +No.--Redeem your country!--Desert the side of those who bring disgrace +upon your native land--of fiends, who drown her soil in blood!--blood +bred from the noblest heroes of her history. + + +PAUL. + +Heroes who debauched our women, and enslaved our men!--Libertines who +let harlots reign in France! Despots whose arrogant descendants are +crushed to-day beneath their fathers' sins! + + +LA ROCHE. + +What, sir! You, a soldier, justify these Jacobins--anarchists like +Carrac, who slaughter hundreds of defenceless women every day, and +even outrage little children? + + +PAUL. + +Anarchists are monsters your race bred when it brutalized their +mothers. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Enough, sir! I see that I must leave you to your fate. + + +PAUL. + +But Diane, my wife! Give me one word of her. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes. You shall know that she believes you innocent, is sick with grief +and desolation in thinking you are dead. + + +PAUL. + +You have seen her, then? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes--here, within an hour. + + +PAUL. + +She is here now, within call--? + +[LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _makes sign of assent_. PAUL _kneels at his +feet_.] + +My God! In pity's name, let me see her once again. + + +LA ROCHE. + +And so re-open the old wounds?--re-awaken hope, but to deepen her +despair? + + +PAUL. + +[_Rising slowly_.] + +No, no! You're right. I will not purchase joy at the cost of pain to +her!--Call your guards. I die happy, knowing she'll remember me with +love. + + +LA ROCHE. + +For her sake renounce rebellion, and I unite you both forever. + + +PAUL. + +Better I should never see her face again than be unworthy of her love. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Great Cæsar! Here's an eagle facing death in loyalty to carrion +crows!--The noble bird is mad! We must not kill, but cure him. + + +LA ROCHE. + +What do you propose? + + +LA HOGUE. + +Put him on parole. Let him give his word that he'll not fight until +he's exchanged. + + +LA ROCHE. + +True! Captain Kauvar, you are a prisoner of war, a man of proven +honour.--Give me your word that you will not lift your sword against +the King, till you're exchanged, and you're paroled and free. + + +PAUL. + +Free with honour, to see my wife once more? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Yes! + + +PAUL. + +Oh, generous foe! Next to my country, my life belongs to you. + + +LA ROCHE. + +I have your word? + + +PAUL. + +[_Raising his hand_.] + +You have. + + +LA ROCHE. + +Captain Kauvar, you are paroled. + + +PAUL. + +And my wife? + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Going_.] + +Shall come to you at once. + +[_Exit_. + + +PAUL. + +Great heavens!--I'm going mad with joy! + +[_Turning to_ LA HOGUE.] + +Colonel, I must explode or die! + +[_He embraces_ LA HOGUE. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Submitting with gusto_.] + +Damme! Embraced by a Sans Culotte! I like it, too! + +_Artillery is heard in the distance_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Looking off_.] + +By heavens!--The Republicans are sweeping down from Granville! + +[_To_ LA HOGUE.] + +Colonel, see! My comrades have attacked you under cover of the town I +burned. + +[_Crash of artillery again_. + + +LA HOGUE. + +Damnation! + +_Enter_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN. + + +ORDERLY. + +[_Rushing in_.] + +General, the enemy are upon us! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Excitedly to_ LA HOGUE.] + +Quick!--To arms!--We must rouse and lead our men! + + +PAUL. + +But Diane--my wife? + + +LA ROCHE. + +Gone!--to England. + +[_Handing a paper_.] + +Read, and remember, whatever be my fate, you are on parole. + +[_He rushes off with_ LA HOGUE. + +_The crash of firearms increases_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Reading_.] + +"Dear Henri:--The town is burning, my daughter in peril. I see +Diane embarked for England, and join you on the field.--Duc de +Beaumont."--Gone!--No! I will find her, and fly with her myself. + +[_Noise of battle outside_.--PAUL _is about to go, but stops_.] + +No, no! My God!--She's lost to me again! I cannot go to seek her, for +I'm a prisoner on parole! + +[_He falls prostrate on the stairs_. + + +CURTAIN. + + + + +ACT V. + +SCENE. _Same as Act IV--one hour later. Noise of battle in +distance_.--PAUL _discovered looking on and listening in +excitement.--Noise increases and sounds nearer_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Triumphantly_.] + +Ah!--The enemy weakens!--gives way!--falls back!--The Royalists +fly!--The Republic wins!--Progress triumphs! + +[_The noise of battle grows louder, but the cries of triumph from +Republicans decrease, then die away_.--PAUL _checks his joy and speaks +in changed tones_.] + +And I--I have no part in this glorious play--because I'm on parole. + +[_Walking up and down excitedly_.] + +What torture!--to be here; with heart aflame, and limbs all free; +to see the fight, and yet be bound to idleness by an oath, as much a +prisoner as though in fetters at the bottom of a cell! + +[_Changing his whole manner_.] + +And Diane--where is she? But now within my reach--almost in my +arms--naught between us but a promise, a mere breath--that breath as +strong as adamantine walls to part us! + + +JEAN. + +[_Entering, sees_ PAUL _and cries out_.] + +Kauvar! + + +PAUL. + +[_Turning, starts_.] + +Jean Litais! + + +JEAN. + +You, alive? + + +PAUL. + +My wife!--Where is she? + + +JEAN. + +Don't ask me! + + +PAUL. + +You promised to save her. + + +JEAN. + +I did.--But for the burning of the Faubourg, and the attack of the +rebels, she would be alive and safe. + + +PAUL. + +And now--? + + +JEAN. + +She's lost!--She, with her father and the Marquis, fell into an +ambush--were fired on from every side-- + + +PAUL. + +Killed! And I am her assassin! + + +JEAN. + +You? + + +PAUL. + +Yes! I planned the burning of the Faubourg, placed the mines that blew +it up, and opened a way for our attack.--In serving my country, I have +killed my wife! + + +JEAN. + +You are a soldier, then,--one of the blues? + + +PAUL. + +Yes--and captured there at dawn. [_Points at the Faubourg_. + + +JEAN. + +And not shot? + + +PAUL. + +No--paroled!--paroled!--paroled! + + +JEAN. + +Impossible! The watchword on both sides is "No mercy." + + +PAUL. + +La Rochejacquelein spared my life, that I might once more see my +wife.--Useless generosity, for she had gone to meet her death! + + +JEAN. + +But he--the General--was merciful, magnanimous to you? + + +PAUL. + +He was. I owe him an eternal debt. + + +JEAN. + +Are you willing to pay your debt? + + +PAUL. + +With my life! + + +JEAN. + +His army is routed. He will be captured--shot like a dog, unless he's +saved. + + +PAUL. + +He must be saved. + + +JEAN. + +There's a secret passage from this castle to the glen. If I could put +his pursuers off his track, he would escape. + + +PAUL. + +Bring the General here and leave the rest to me. + + +JEAN. + +You will aid him? + + +PAUL. + +I will.--Be quick; we're wasting time. + +[JEAN _crosses to door and beckons; enter_ LA HOGUE, LA +ROCHEJACQUELEIN _and_ DENISE. + + +PAUL. + +[_Putting off his coat and crossing_.] + +General, off with your coat! + + +LA ROCHE. + +What does this mean? + + +PAUL. + +You were merciful to me--'tis my turn now! We exchange uniforms; I am +captured in your place, mislead your pursuers while you escape. + + +LA ROCHE. + +For you to assist me is treason to your cause. + + +PAUL. + +Ingratitude is treason to my God!--I owe you more than life; let men +call this what they will; I have a divine right to pay my debt. + + +LA ROCHE. + +I refuse to let you do a deed that may bring dishonour on your head. + + +PAUL. + +Then I refuse to owe my life to you.--Accept my assistance, or + +[_Drawing pistol from the belt of_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] with my own +hand I'll shoot the prisoner you paroled. + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_Grasping_ PAUL'S _arm_.] + +Stop! This can be arranged. + + +PAUL. + +How? + + +LA HOGUE. + +You are a prisoner on parole.--The General is as good as captured +now.--Let him release you from your word, then his escape will only be +an exchange of prisoners. + + +PAUL. + +Will you consent to this? + + +LA ROCHE. + +No, I cannot. The exchange would not be fair to the side you serve. I +am a General; you, but a Captain. + + +LA HOGUE. + +But we have the other prisoners, the comrades of the Captain; we can +shoot them all at once, or exchange them if we choose for you. + + +PAUL. + +Free them--and I but make a fair exchange in helping you to get away. + +[_Shouts outside_. + +[_Cheers_. + + +JEAN. + +My God! The crowd rush on this way. + + +DENISE. + +[_Kneeling to_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] + +In Mercy's name--! + + +LA HOGUE. + +The King's cause dies with you!--You are bound to live for him! + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Stripping off his coat_.] + +Enough--I consent. + + +DENISE. + +Thank God! + +PAUL _and_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _exchange uniforms_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +By heavens! I never thought to wear this colour on my back! I do it +for King Louis' sake. + + +PAUL. + +And I wear this in honour of the King of Kings, who is our common +Father. + + +LA ROCHE. + +My saviour! + + +PAUL. + +Nay, your brother! + +PAUL _and_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _look in each other's eyes a moment, +then part in silence_. JEAN _and_ DENISE _cross to panel in wall_. LA +ROCHEJACQUELEIN _crosses and turns_. + + +LA ROCHE. + +[_Saluting_ PAUL.] + +Long live the King! + + +PAUL. + +[_Saluting_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN.] + +Long live the Republic! + + +LA HOGUE. + +[_As_ LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _goes out,_.] + +Your comrades are there. + +[_Pointing_.] + +This key will set them free. + + +PAUL. + +[_Taking_ LA HOGUE'S _hand_.] + +Our lives are yours!--Farewell! + + +LA HOGUE. + +Damme! I never thought I'd live to love a Sans Culotte! + +[_As_ LA HOGUE _goes out_, JEAN _crosses to_ PAUL. + + +JEAN. + +When you are recognized, our pursuit will recommence. + + +PAUL. + +How much time is needed to make sure your escape? + + +JEAN. + +At least one hour.--If your disguise is discovered in less time, you +will have risked your life in vain. + + +PAUL. + +Don't fear! + + +JEAN. + +I have your word, and no matter what happens, you will play your part +for one whole hour? + + +PAUL. + +You have my word, however tragic this comedy may become. + + +JEAN. + +When the General is free, I shall return. + +[_A bell tolls the hour of Two_.] + +Listen! Remember, you have pledged your honour to endure all things +for an hour. Till then--God help you! + +[_Exit_. + +_Shouts and yells outside from Republican soldiers_; PAUL _sits near +the fire and pays no attention. Firing outside, followed by cries and +cheers_. + + +POTIN. + +[_Outside_.] + +This way!--This way!--That's his nest!--We'll find the bird in there! + +[_Rushes on, followed by_ SOLDIERS.] + +[_Looking around_.] + +Deserted! The rogue of a royal General is hiding like a mouse! We'll +unearth him!--Come on! + +[_He is going toward door, followed by his_ MEN, _when he sees_ PAUL, +_and starts back_.] + +Halt! + +[_Points at_ PAUL.] + +See!--There is La Rochejacquelein! + +[_To the_ MEN.] + +Make ready--Aim! + +[SOLDIERS _aim at_ PAUL, _who does not move_] + +[_To_ PAUL.] + +General La Rochejacquelein, we recognize your uniform. Surrender! + +[PAUL _does not move_.] + +General, your sword, or we fire! + + +PAUL. + +[_Rising coolly_.] + +Fire! + + +POTIN. + +We do not want to kill you. + +[_Advancing with extended hand_.] + +We'd rather have your sword. + + +PAUL. + +[_Recognizing_ POTIN, _speaks aside_.] + +Potin!--The wretch!--He may recognize me before the hour is up! + +[_He draws his sword and extends it backward_. + + +POTIN. + +[_Taking the sword_.] + +General, you are our prisoner. + +[_To_ SOLDIERS.] + +Comrades, to us--a squad of the battalion of the Bonnet Rouge--is due +the glory of taking the leader of these Royalist Brigands!--Hurrah for +our Battalion! + +[_All cheer_. + + +VOICES. + +[_Outside_.] + +Long live the Republic! + + +POTIN. + +[_Looking off_] + +Bah! Here come the rabble--a crowd of anarchists! + + +GOUJON. + +Who never share the fighting. + + +POTIN. + +But claim all the glory fighting brings. + + +GOUJON. + +Curse these civil shouters! + +SOLDIERS _all groan. Cries of "Carrac! Carrac!" with cheers heard +outside_. + + +POTIN. + +Here they come, led on by Scarlotte-- + + +GOUJON. + +Scarlotte! A woman in form--a fury in nature! + + +POTIN. + +Like my wife. + +[_Cheers outside_.] + +Good heavens! Worse and worse! Yonder comes Carrac--the king of +curs!--Damme! The devil himself is a saint compared with him. + + +GOUJON. + +The beast! + + +POTIN. + +The bloodiest beast of all--a tiger! + +[_To_ SOLDIERS.] + +Quick, form on this side [_Pointing to the left_.] and protect the +General.--This hog will want to eat him, before we can deliver him to +Kleber and get the credit of his capture. + +[SOLDIERS _form in front of_ PAUL. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +[_Outside_.] + +This way, you fools!--Death to Rochejacquelein. Come on! + + +MOB. + +[_Outside_.] + +Death to Rochejacquelein! + + +SCARLOTTE. + +[_Entering, followed by_ MOB.] + +Rochejacquelein!--Rochejacquelein!--Where is Rochejacquelein? + + +MOB. + +Down with Rochejacquelein! Down with Rochejacquelein! + + +BOURDOTTE. + +[_Appearing_.] + +Silence! Here comes Carrac, the great Carrac--representative of the +Republic--who never spares an enemy! + +[_Comes down stage_. + + +POTIN. + +And never makes a friend. + + +MOB. + +Carrac!--Carrac!--Long live Carrac! + +CARRAC _appears, followed by a second_ MOB, _and makes a gesture +commanding silence_. + + +CARRAC. + +So--this is the ancestral hall of that cursed kin of kings, La +Rochejacquelein!--Ha! He's doubtless sneaking like a coward in some +safe corner of his den. Is the place surrounded? + + +BOURDOTTE. + +On every side. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +Good!--Tear his house about his ears! + + +CARRAC. + +Aye--strip the old hawk's nest. + + +MOB. + +Aye!--Aye! + +[_The_ MOB _dismantle the house, with yells of exultation_. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +[_Urging them on_.] + +Heroes of Liberty!--demolish every trace of beauty in the place! + +_Amid a scene of anarchic rage and turmoil, the room is stript stark_. + + +CARRAC. + +Well done--noble levellers of the age!--Pull the boasted culture of +the nobility to the gutter.--Bravo!--We've demolished the old nest; +now to hunt the young hawk down! + + +MOB. + +Aye!--Aye! + + +POTIN. + +[_Waving the_ MOB _back_.] + +Stop!--La Rochejacquelein is found! + + +SCARLOTTE. + +Where is he? + + +POTIN. + +There--our prisoner. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +Drag him to the river! + + +MOB. + +Aye--to the river! + + +POTIN. + +Stand back!--He belongs to our battalion. + + +CARRAC. + +What insolence is this? We demand his surrender here--to us. + + +POTIN. + +We surrender him to none but our own Colonel. + + +CARRAC. + +We are the people and supreme!--We represent the civil power of the +State, that rules the soldier. + + +MOB. + +Aye!--Aye! + + +POTIN. + +[_To the_ SOLDIERS.] + +Make ready!--Aim! + +[SOLDIERS _aim_;--_the_ MOB _fall back_.] + +You're ten to one.--Come on, you civil rulers, and take him if you +can. + + +CARRAC. + +This is treason! + + +SCARLOTTE. + +Aye--treason!--Treason! + +[_The_ MOB _groan_. + + +POTIN. + +Soldiers have no rulers but their officers! + + +CARRAC. + +Someone go for General Kleber. Bid him come at once--to quell this +mutiny. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +I will bring him. + +[_Crosses_.] + +Death to all who dare to balk the people's will! + +[_Exit_. + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Meantime, Citizen Carrac, we have some prisoners here at hand that we +can dispatch at once. + + +CARRAC. + +How many? + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Five.--Two men, and three women--perfect beauties! + + +CARRAC. + +Bravo! Their beauty and their lives are ours! + +[_Cheers from_ MOB.] + +Bring them in! + +[_Exeunt eight_ SANS CULOTTES.] + +Citizens, we've won to-day a glorious victory. + + +POTIN. + +There he goes boasting, when he never struck a blow. + + +CARRAC. + +Let's complete our triumph--prove our power-- + + +MOB. + +Bravo!--Bravo! + + +CARRAC. + +You are the people!--You are France!--Let the Nation voice her will +through you.--What shall we do with our prisoners? + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Kill them. + + +MOB. + +Aye--kill them--kill them! + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Drown the men like puppies, and put the women to public shame! + + +MOB. + +Aye! Aye! + + +CARRAC. + +The voice of the people is the voice of God.--Have your will--it is +God's command! + +_Enter_ CITIZENS, _dragging the_ DUKE, GOUROC, DIANE, NANETTE, _and_ +ALINE, _a young girl_. + +_The_ MOB _groan and laugh mockingly. + +The young girl is dragged forward--two_ SANS CULOTTES _contending for +her_. + + +FIRST SANS CULOTTE. + +She's mine! + + +SECOND SANS CULOTTE. + +You lie!--I caught her first! + + +ALINE. + +Mercy!--Kill me if you will,--but spare me this! + + +CARRAC. + +[_Laughing_.] + +Citizens,--behold your victims! + +[MOB _rush forward with ferocious yells_. + + +DUKE. + +[_Interposing_.] + +No, no!--Let my grey hairs suffice! + +[_The_ MOB _pause_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Starting up, speaks aside_.] + +My God!--That voice! + +[_During what follows_, PAUL--_screened from the_ MOB'S _view by his +soldier_ GUARDS--_expresses in pantomime his conflicting emotions_. + + +CARRAC. + +[_To the_ DUKE.] + +Who are you? + + +GOUROC. + +[_Speaking quickly_.] + +We are Citizens of the Republic!--He + +[_Pointing at the_ DUKE.] + +is George Leblanc--and I, Citizen Gouroc of the Committee of Public +Safety. + +[CARRAC _and_ MOB _draw back with astonishment_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Aside_.] + +And Diane!--Is she there?--I must see! + +[_Starts, stops_.] + +No, no!--They would know me; the hour is not up! + + +CARRAC. + +You, Citizen Gouroc?--I don't believe it. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Holding out papers_.] + +Here are our credentials. + + +CARRAC. + +They may be forgeries. + + +MOB. + +Aye--forgeries! forgeries! + + +CARRAC. + +[_To the_ MOB.] + +Silence! While we proceed in our examination. + +[_The_ MOB _utter low murmurs_. CARRAC _turns to_ NANETTE.] + +Who are you? + + +NANETTE. + +[_Advancing defiantly_.] + +I am Citizeness Nanette Potin. + + +POTIN. + +[_Aside_.] + +My wife!-- + +[_Sneaks behind comrades_. + + +CARRAC. + +Ha, wait! + +[_Seeing_ DIANE, _he drags her forth_.] + +By the gods!--here's a feast for Jupiter himself.--Speak out, +delicious wench, and tell us who you are. + + +DIANE. + +I am Diane-- + + +GOUROC. + +[_Interrupting quickly_.] + +She is Diane Gouroc.-- + +[_Pointing at the_ DUKE.] + +His daughter and my wife. + + +PAUL. + +[_Exploding_.] + +Liar! + +[_All start and turn toward_ PAUL, _who speaks aside_.] + +God help me!--I forget; the hour is not ended. + + +CARRAC. + +Who is it calls this citizen a liar? + + +GOUJON. + +The prisoner. + + +CARRAC. + +Ah, ha! It seems he knows these citizens.--In the name of the law +and the Republic, I summon instantly as a witness Henri de la +Rochejacquelein. + + +DIANE. + +My cousin captured? + +[_All turn toward her, amazed_. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Starting_.] + +My God!--We're lost! + + +CARRAC. + +So--the prisoner is the beauty's cousin. + +[_To_ GOUROC.] + +Traitor! You have lied!--This convicts you all. + + +MOB. + +To the guillotine!--To the guillotine! + + +BOURDOTTE. + +No! A marriage! A Republican marriage! + + +MOB. + +Aye! A marriage! marriage! + +[BOURDOTTE _drags forth_ NANETTE. + + +NANETTE. + +What are you going to do? + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Tie you to this man and throw you in the river.--That's the way we +marry Royalists! + +[_The_ MOB _laugh mockingly_. + + +NANETTE. + +[_Shrieking_.] + +Help! + + +POTIN. + +[_Exploding_.] + +Damnation!--Tongue or no tongue, I must save her. + +[_Bounds forward and frees his wife_.] + +Nanette! + + +NANETTE. + +[_Joyfully embracing_ POTIN.] + +Dodolphe! + + +CARRAC. + +What does this mean? + + +POTIN. + +This is my wife; the wife of a soldier of the Republic, and so, sacred +to her country. + + +SOLDIERS. + +Aye! Aye! + + +POTIN. + +[_Pointing to_ GOUROC.] + +Do what you like with him--for such cattle as he deserve to die! + +[GOUROC _turns and glowers_.] + +Glare! Who cares? I'm a soldier. 'Tis my turn now!--You shall pay +dearly for making me a perjurer! + +[_To_ MOB.] + +Citizens, this devil here forced me to swear falsely against a +patriot. + + +BOURDOTTE. + +When was this? + + +POTIN. + +Three months ago in Paris.--I was secretary to my Section.--This man +had a blank warrant signed by our president, Paul Kauvar.--He made me +fill it in with the name of the Duc de Beaumont--and, after, falsely +swear that Kauvar had ordered the arrest. + +[_Cries of execration from the_ MOB. + + +DIANE. + +Father! You hear? It is to him that we owe our agony!--One of your own +race. + + +POTIN. + +Kauvar was his friend--this dog betrayed him! + + +NANETTE. + +Yes, while he himself was all the time a Marquis in disguise. + + +PAUL. + +He, my friend--a traitor! + + +CARRAC. + +Death to the brigand! + + +MOB. + +Death to him! To the river! Drown him! + +[_They seize_ GOUROC. + + +GOUROC. + +[_Breaking away from them_.] + +Fiends--I defy you, and escape you! + +[_Draws pistol, fires, and falls dead_. + + +BOURDOTTE. + +[_Feeling_ GOUROC'S _breast_.] + +Dead.--Dead as potted pork. + + +CARRAC. + +And the people cheated of their just revenge! + +CITIZENS _bear_ GOUROC'S _body off_. + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Ah, look, we have still the old Aristo and his daughter! + + +MOB. + +Aye!--Aye! Away with them! Away with them! + +[_They rush on the_ DUKE _and_ DIANE. + + +PAUL. + +My God! Will this hour never end? + + +CARRAC. + +[_To the_ MOB.] + +Here! Strip her! Drive her to her death! + +[_The_ MOB _howls_.--DIANE _breaks from_ CARRAC.--_Bell tolls_. + + +PAUL. + +[_With a cry of joy_.] + +The hour strikes!--I'm free! + +[CARRAC _seizes_ DIANE _again and drags her to the centre of the +stage. + +Rushing from his concealed position_, PAUL _tears_ DIANE, _fainting, +from the arms of_ CARRAC, _whom he flings to the ground--warning back +the_ MOB, _who pause for a moment, staring in amazement_. + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Ha--the brigand--kill him!-- + + +MOB. + +[_Advancing_.] + +Kill him!--Kill him! + + +POTIN. + +[_Aiming, with_ SOLDIERS.] + +Halt!--He is our prisoner. + +[_The_ MOB _recoil_. + + +PAUL. + +[_Flinging off his coat and hat_.] + +No! Not your prisoner! Your officer!--Captain on Kleber's staff: +Captain Paul Kauvar. + + +DIANE. + +[_With a cry--quivering, incredulous_.] + +Paul!--Alive! + + +PAUL. + +Heaven is merciful at last! + +[_He takes her in his arms_. + + +POTIN. + +By the gods, it is!--The Citizen Kauvar! + + +GOUJON. + +Then La Rochejacquelein has got away? + + +CARRAC. + +[_Rising, to_ PAUL.] + +If you are a soldier of the Republic, how is it we find you in the +coat of a brigand? + + +PAUL. + +That's my affair, not yours. + + +CARRAC. + +What! You refuse to answer? [_Coming close to_ PAUL.] Do you know who +I am? + + +PAUL. + +[_With quiet, increasing intensity, before which_ CARRAC _is utterly +cowed_.] + +Yes,--Carrac--an anarchist--a fiend--in the name of liberty invoking +the tyranny of terror! An assassin--shouting fraternity and committing +fratricide! A libertine--claiming equality with the good, while +ravishing the pure! A monster--part vulture, part toad--who, in the +holy name of progress, makes our Country and our Cause revolting to +the world! + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Ha! See! Carrac recoils! He's found his match at last!-- + +[MOB _laugh and jeer_. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +[_Appearing_.] + +Room there!--Room for General Kleber. + + +MOB. + +[_Falling back on both sides_.] + +Kleber!--Kleber!--Long live Kleber! + + +KLEBER. + +[_Entering with three_ OFFICERS.] + +I am told there is mutiny--treason here. Who and where are the +accused? + + +CARRAC. + +[_Pointing at_ PAUL.] + +There stands the worst of them! + + +KLEBER. + +[_Astounded_] + +Captain Kauvar!--Of what is he accused? + + +CARRAC. + +Treachery to France! He has worn the colours of the Royal Cause. + + +GOUJON. + +We arrested him as Rochejacquelein. + + +CARRAC. + +Whom he has aided to escape. + + +KLEBER. + +A terrible charge! The punishment is instant death.--Captain Kauvar, +what have you to say? + + +PAUL. + +But little.--I led last night the band of men who mined the Faubourg +and cleared the road for our army to advance. + + +KLEBER. + +A desperate undertaking, crowned with great success!--We gave you all +up as dead. + + +PAUL. + +We should have been, but for the clemency of Rochejacquelein. He +spared my men, and put me on parole. He could have shot us all, but by +letting him escape I saved the band of patriots to whom our army owes +its victory to-day. + +[_All cheer_. + + +KLEBER. + +Captain Kauvar, you did right! + +[_The_ MOB _cheer_. + + +CARRAC. + +Citizens, the watchword sent from Robespierre to Vendée was this: +"Death without mercy to the Aristocrats." + +[_Pointing at the_ DUKE.] + +Here is one, at least; I claim him for the guillotine. + + +MOB. + +Aye--to the guillotine! To the guillotine! + + +KLEBER. + +[_As the_ MOB _rush on the_ DUKE.] + +Halt! + +[_The_ MOB _fall back_.] + +Citizens, I bring you glorious news! These despatches have just +reached me on the field. They come from the National Convention at the +Capitol of France. Listen! + +[_Reads_.] + +"The tyrant Robespierre has been guillotined. The reign of terror is +at an end. Proclaim amnesty, mercy, and fraternity to all Frenchmen in +Vendée." + +[_All cheer_. + + +CARRAC. + +Robespierre dead! What will the people do without the guillotine? + + +PAUL. + +Drive anarchists and Carracs out of France! + + +BOURDOTTE. + +Aye! Away with him! Away with him! + +[_Rushing on_ CARRAC, _the_ MOB _nearly tear him to pieces as they +bear him away_. + + +SCARLOTTE. + +[_Fighting the_ MOB.] + +Ingrates--traitors--dogs--ye shall not harm him--back! back! back! + +[_Exit, facing the_ MOB, _and trying to save_ CARRAC. + + +JEAN. + +[_Bounding in from panel, speaks to_ PAUL.] + +You see I have returned! + + +DUKE. + +And the General? + + +JEAN. + +Has escaped to England, [_Pointing to_ PAUL.] thanks to him. + + +KLEBER. + +[_Taking a cross from his own breast, and advancing to_ PAUL.] + +Captain Kauvar, you risked almost certain death to purchase victory +for France. In the name of the Republic, I decorate you for heroic +courage on the field! + +[_He places the cross on_ PAUL'S _breast. All cheer_. + + +DUKE. + +[_Extending his hand to_ PAUL.] + +My son!-- + +[PAUL _clasps it_. + + +DIANE. + +At last, thank God, dear France is free of tyrants. + + +PAUL. + +Liberty is wed to Justice, and Anarchy is ended! + + +CURTAIN. + + + + +_End of the Play_. + + + + + + + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Representative Plays by American +Dramatists: 1856-1911: Paul Kauvar; or, Anarchy, by Steele Mackaye + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13006 *** |