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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/19101-8.txt b/19101-8.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1586956 --- /dev/null +++ b/19101-8.txt @@ -0,0 +1,4663 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Girl with the Green Eyes, by Clyde Fitch + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Girl with the Green Eyes + A Play in Four Acts + +Author: Clyde Fitch + +Release Date: August 22, 2006 [EBook #19101] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES *** + + + + +Produced by Louise Hope, David Garcia and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Kentuckiana Digital Library) + + + + + + + + THE GIRL WITH THE + + GREEN EYES + + + + + [Illustration: {publisher's logo}] + + + + + The Girl with the + Green Eyes + + _A Play In Four Acts_ + + By + + CLYDE FITCH + + + [Symbol: fleur-de-lis] + + + The Macmillan Company + _New York MCMV_ + London: Macmillan & Co., Ltd. + + + + + + Copyright, 1905, + By THE MACMILLAN COMPANY. + All Rights Reserved. + + Set up and electrotyped. Published November, 1905. + + #Norwood Press# + J. S. Cushing & Co.--Berwick & Smith Co. + Norwood, Mass., U.S.A. + + + + + To + + CLARA BLOODGOOD + + Good Friend and Ideal Interpreter + of "Jinny" + + + + +_THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES_ + + +ACT I. The Tillmans' House, New York. + _The Wedding._ + + (Two months elapse.) + +ACT II. The Vatican, Rome. + _The Honeymoon._ + + (Three weeks elapse.) + +ACT III. The Austins' House, New York. + _Home._ + + (The night passes.) + +ACT IV. The Same. + + Scene I. _Dawn of the Next Day._ + + Scene II. _Early the Same Morning._ + + + + +_The Persons More or Less Concerned in the Play_ + + + "JINNY" AUSTIN. + MR. TILLMAN } _Her Parents._ + MRS. TILLMAN } + GEOFFREY TILLMAN. _Her Brother._ + SUSIE. _Her Cousin._ + MISS RUTH CHESTER } + MISS GRACE DANE } _Her Bridesmaids._ + MISS BELLE WESTING } + MISS GERTRUDE WOOD } + MAGGIE. _Maid at the Tillmans'._ + HOUSEMAID. _At the Tillmans'._ + BUTLER. _At the Tillmans'._ + FOOTMAN. _At the Tillmans'._ + JOHN AUSTIN. + MRS. CULLINGHAM. + PETER CULLINGHAM. _Her Son._ + MRS. LOPP. + CARRIE. _Her Daughter._ + A FRENCH COUPLE. + A GERMAN COUPLE. + A GUIDE. + A DRIVER. + A GROUP OF TOURISTS. + + + + +Originally produced under the management of Charles Frohman at the +Savoy Theatre, New York, on the 25th of December, 1902, with the +following cast:-- + + "Jinny" Austin Miss Clara Bloodgood + Mr. Tillman Mr. Charles Abbott + Mrs. Tillman Mrs. Harriet Otis Dellenbaugh + Geoffrey Tillman Mr. John M. Albaugh, Jr. + Susie Miss Edith Taliaferro + Miss Ruth Chester Miss Lucille Flaven + Miss Grace Dane Miss Mary Blyth + Miss Belle Westing Miss Helena Otis + Miss Gertrude Wood Miss Felice Morris + Maggie Miss Lucile Watson + Housemaid Miss Angela Keir + Butler Mr. Gardner Jenkins + Footman Mr. Walter Dickinson + John Austin Mr. Robert Drouet + Mrs. Cullingham Mrs. McKee Rankin + Peter Cullingham Mr. Harry E. Asmus + Mrs. Lopp Miss Ellen Rowland + Carrie Miss Clara B. Hunter + A French Couple { Mr. Henry De Barry + { Miss Louise Delmar + A German Couple { Mr. J. R. Cooley + { Miss Elsa Ganett + A Guide Mr. Frank Brownlee + A Driver Mr. Lou W. Carter + { Miss Elizabeth French + A Group of Tourists { Miss Gertrude Bindley + { Miss Myrtle Lane + + + + +ACT I + + +_A charming room in the Tillmans' house. The walls are white woodwork, + framing in old tapestries of deep foliage design, with here and there + a flaming flamingo; white furniture with old, green brocade cushions. + The room is in the purest Louis XVI. The noon sunlight streams through + a window on the left. On the opposite side is a door to the hall. At + back double doors open into a corridor which leads to the ballroom. + At left centre are double doors to the front hall. A great, luxurious + sofa is at the left, with chairs sociably near it, and on the other + side of the room a table has chairs grouped about it. On floral small + table are books and objets d'art, and everywhere there is a profusion + of white roses and maidenhair fern._ + +_In the stage directions Left and Right mean Left and Right of actor, + as he faces audience._ + +_Three smart-looking SERVANTS are peering through the crack of the + folding door, their backs to the audience. The pretty, slender MAID + is on a chair. The elderly BUTLER dignifiedly stands on the floor. + The plump, overfed little HOUSEMAID is kneeling so as to see beneath + the head of the BUTLER._ + + +HOUSEMAID. [_Gasping._] Oh, ain't it a beautiful sight! + +BUTLER. [_Pompously._] Not to me who 'ave seen a Lord married in +Hengland. + +MAGGIE. Oh, you make me sick, Mr. Potts, always talking of your English +Aristocracy! I'm sure there never was no prettier wedding than this. Nor +as pretty a bride as Miss Jinny. + +BUTLER. [_Correcting her._] Mrs. Haustin! + +HOUSEMAID. She looks for all the world like one of them frosted angels +on a Christmas card. My, I wish I could 'a' seen her go up the aisle +with the organ going for all it was worth! + +MAGGIE. It was a _beautiful_ sight! + +BUTLER. A good many 'appens to be 'aving the sense to be going now. + +HOUSEMAID. Could you hear Miss Jinny say "I do," and make them other +remarks? + +MAGGIE. Yes, _plain_, though her voice was trembly like. But Mr. Austin +he almost shouted! + + [_Laughing nervously in excitement._ + +BUTLER. 'E's glad to get 'er! + +MAGGIE. _And her him!_ + +HOUSEMAID. Yes, that's what I likes about it. Did any one cry? + +MAGGIE. Mrs. Tillman. Lots of people are going now. + +HOUSEMAID. What elegant clothes! Oh, gosh! + +BUTLER. [_Superciliously._] Mrs. Cullingham don't seem in no 'urry; +she's a common lot! + +MAGGIE. I don't care, she's rich and Miss Jinny likes her; she just +throws money around to any poor person or church or hospital that wants +it, or _don't_! So she can't be so _very common_ neither, Mr. Potts! + +HOUSEMAID. Say, I catch on to something! Young Mr. Tillman's sweet on +that there tall bridesmaid. + +MAGGIE. [_Sharply._] Who? + +BUTLER. Miss Chester. I've seen there was something goin' hon between +them whenever she's dined or lunched 'ere. + +MAGGIE. [_Angry._] 'Tain't true! + +BUTLER. I'll bet my month's wages. + +MAGGIE. I don't believe you! + +BUTLER. Why, what's it to _you_, please? + +MAGGIE. [_Saving herself._] Nothing-- + +HOUSEMAID. Well, I guess it's truth enough. That's the second time I've +seen him squeeze her hand when no one wasn't lookin'. + +MAGGIE. Here, change places with me! [_Getting down from her chair._] +If you was a gentleman, Mr. Potts, you'd have given me _your place_! + + [_Witheringly._ + +BUTLER. If I was a _gentleman_, miss, I wouldn't be here; _I'd_ be on +the other side of the door. + + [_He moves the chairs away._ + +MAGGIE. [_To Housemaid._] Honest, you saw something between them? + +HOUSEMAID. Who? + +MAGGIE. Him and her? Mr. Geoffrey and Miss Chester-- + +HOUSEMAID. _Cheese it!_ they're coming this way! + + [_She and the MAID and the BUTLER vanish through the door Right._ + + [_GEOFFREY and RUTH enter through the double doors quickly at back. + GEOFFREY is a young, good-looking man, but with a weak face. He is of + course very smartly dressed. RUTH is a very serenely beautiful girl, + rather noble in type, but unconscious and unpretending in manner. + They close the doors quickly behind them._ + +GEOFFREY. We'll not be interrupted here, and I must have a few words +with you before you go. + + [_He follows her to the sofa where she sits, and leans over it, with + his arm about her shoulder._ + +RUTH. Oh, Geof,--Geof, why weren't we married like this? + +GEOFFREY. It couldn't be helped, darling! + +RUTH. It isn't the big wedding I miss, oh, no, it's only it seemed +sweeter in a church. Why did we have to steal off to Brooklyn, to that +poor, strange little preacher in his stuffy back parlour, and behave as +if we were doing something of which we were ashamed? + +GEOFFREY. You love me, I love you,--isn't that the chief thing, dearest? + +RUTH. But how much longer must we keep it secret? + +GEOFFREY. Till I can straighten my affairs out. I can't explain it all +to you; there are terrible debts,--one more than all the others,--a debt +I made when I was in college. + +RUTH. If I could only help you! I have a _little_ money. + +GEOFFREY. No, I love you too much; besides, this debt isn't _money_, +and I hope to get rid of it somehow before long. + +RUTH. Forgive me for worrying you. It is only that every one is so happy +at this wedding except me,--dear Jinny brimming over with joy, as I +would be,--and it's made me feel--a little-- + +GEOFFREY. [_Comes around the sofa and sits beside her._] I know, dear, +and it's made me feel what a brute I am! Oh, if you knew how I hate +myself for all I've done, and for the pain and trouble I cause you now! + + [_MAGGIE, her sharp features set tense, appears in the doorway on the + left behind the curtains and listens._ + +RUTH. Never mind, we won't think of that any more. + +GEOFFREY. I can never throw it off, not for a minute! I'm a worthless +fellow and how can you love me-- + +RUTH. [_Interrupting him._] I _do_! You are worth everything to me, and +you will be worth much to the world yet! + +GEOFFREY. I love you, Ruth--that's the one claim I can make to deserve +you. But it's helped me to give up _all_ the beastly pleasures I used to +indulge in! + +RUTH. [_Softly._] Geof! + +GEOFFREY. Which I used to think the only things worth living for, and +which now, thanks to you, I loathe,--every one of them. + +RUTH. I'm so glad! I've been some help, then. + +GEOFFREY. If I'd only got you earlier, I'd have been a different man, +Ruth! + +RUTH. [_Smiling and taking his nervous hand in hers._] Then I mightn't +have fallen in love with you if you were a _different_ man! + +GEOFFREY. Dear girl! Anyway, this is the good news that I want to tell +you--I hope now to have things settled in a couple of weeks. + +RUTH. [_In glad relief._] Geoffrey! + +GEOFFREY. But--I mayn't be successful; it might be, Ruth--it might be, +we would have to wait--for years-- + +RUTH. [_Quietly._] I don't think I could bear that! It's not easy for me +to lie and deceive as I've had to the last few months; I don't think I +could keep it up. + + [_PETER CULLINGHAM enters suddenly, from the ballroom, a pale young + man, but, unlike GEOFFREY, hard and virile._ + +PETER. Oh, here you are! I say, are you two spoony? Just the way _I_ +feel! [_Laughing._] I caught and hugged old Mrs. Parmby just now! I +think it's sort of in the air at weddings, don't you? + +GEOFFREY. [_Rising._] I'm surprised to see you've left the refreshment +table, Peter. + +PETER. They sent me to find Miss Chester--they're going to cut the +bridesmaid's cake, and if you two really are spoony, Miss Chester, you'd +better not miss it--you might get the ring! + + [_They laugh as PETER takes out a bottle from which he takes a round, + black tablet which he puts in his mouth._ + +RUTH. [_Also rising._] I'd better go. + + [_PETER is making frantic efforts to swallow the tablet._ + +GEOFFREY. [_Noticing him._] What's the matter with you? + +PETER. O dear! I've eaten so many ices and fancy cakes, I've got awful +indigestion, and I'm trying to swallow a charcoal tablet. + +RUTH. Come with me and get a glass of water. + +PETER. No, it's very bad to drink water with your meals; but I'll get a +piece of bridesmaid's cake--that'll push it down! + + [_PETER and RUTH go out through the double doors._ + + [_The moment they are out of the room, MAGGIE comes from behind the + curtain and goes straight up to GEOFFREY. He looks astonished and + frightened._ + +GEOFFREY. What do you want? Have you been listening? + +MAGGIE. So that's it, is it? You want to marry her when you can get rid +of me. + +GEOFFREY. [_With relief._] What do you mean? + +MAGGIE. Oh, I may not have heard everything, but I heard and saw enough +to catch on that you're in love with Miss Chester. + +GEOFFREY. Well? + +MAGGIE. Well, you won't marry her--I'll never set you free. + +GEOFFREY. Sh! + + [_Looking about and closing the doors._ + +MAGGIE. Oh, they're all in the dining room. + +GEOFFREY. [_Angry._] What do you want, anyway? + +MAGGIE. [_She pleads a little._] When I came here to your house and got +a position, it was because I _loved_ you, if you _had_ treated me bad, +and I hoped by seeing you again, and being near you, you might come back +to me and everything be made straight! + +GEOFFREY. Never! Never! It's impossible. + +MAGGIE. [_Angry again._] Oh, is it! Well, the dirty little money you +give me now only holds my tongue quiet so long's you behave yourself and +don't run after any other girls! But the minute you try to throw me +down, I'll come out with the whole story. + +GEOFFREY. I was drunk when I married you! + +MAGGIE. More shame to you! + +GEOFFREY. You're right. But I was only twenty--and you--led me on-- + +MAGGIE. [_Interrupting him._] Me! led you on! _me_, as decent and nice +a girl as there was in New Haven if I do do housework, and that's my +wedding ring and you put it there, and mother's got the certificate +locked up good and safe in her box with my dead baby sister's hair and +the silver plate off my father's coffin! + +GEOFFREY. We mustn't talk here any more! + +MAGGIE. You look out! If I wasn't so fond of your sister Miss Jinny, +and if the old people weren't so good to me, I'd just show you right +up _here_--_now_! + +GEOFFREY. I'll _buy_ you off if I can't divorce you! + +MAGGIE. _You!_ Poof! + + [_GIRLS' voices are heard from the ballroom._ + +GEOFFREY. Look out--some one's coming! + +MAGGIE. [_Going._] You haven't got a red cent; my cheque's always one of +your _father's_! + + [_She goes out Right._ + +GEOFFREY. Good God! what am I going to do--shoot myself, if I don't get +out of this soon--I must get some air! + + [_He goes out Left._ + + [_JINNY opens the double doors, looks in, and then enters. She is an + adorable little human being, pretty, high-strung, temperamental, full + of certain feminine fascination that defies analysis, which is partly + due to the few faults she possesses. She is, of course, dressed in + the conventional wedding-dress, a tulle veil thrown over her face._ + +JINNY. Not a soul! Come on! + + [_She is followed in by the four BRIDESMAIDS--nice girls every one of + them--and also, very slyly, by SUSIE, a very modern spoiled child, who + sits unobserved out of the way at the back._ + +Now, my dears, I wish to say good-by all by ourselves so I can make you +a little speech! [_All laugh gently._] In the first place I want to tell +you that there's nothing like marriage! And you must every one of you +try it! Really, I was never so happy in my life! + +GRACE. Must we stand, or may we sit down? + +JINNY. Oh, stand; it won't be long and you'll only crush your lovely +frocks. In fact, I advise you not to lose any time sitting down again +until you've got the happy day fixed! + +RUTH. You know, Jinny darling, that there is no one so glad for your +happiness as your four bridesmaids are--isn't that so, girls? + +ALL. Yes! + + [_And they all together embrace JINNY, saying, "Dear old Jinny," + "Darling Jinny," "We'll miss you dreadfully," etc., ad lib., till + they get tearful._ + +JINNY. Good gracious, girls, we mustn't cry. I'll get red eyes, and +Jack'll think what an awful difference just the marriage service makes +in a woman. + + [_The doors at the back open, and AUSTIN appears in the doorway._ + + [_AUSTIN is a typical New Yorker in appearance, thirty-two years + old, good-looking, manly, self-poised, and somewhat phlegmatic in + temperament._ + +AUSTIN. Hello! May a mere man come in to this delectable tea party? + +JINNY. _No_, Jack! But _wait_--by the door till I call you! + +AUSTIN. [_Amused._] Thank you! + + [_He goes out, closing the door._ + +GERTRUDE. We'll miss you so awfully, Jinny. + +JINNY. Just what I say! Get a man to keep you company, and then you +won't miss any one. + +BELLE. Yes, but attractive men with lots of money don't come into the +Grand Central Station by every train! + +JINNY. [_Putting her arm about her._] You want too much, my dear Belle! +And you aren't watching the Grand Central Station either half so much +as you are the steamer docks for a suitable person. Now don't be angry; +you know you want a good big title, and you've got the money to pay, +but, my dear Belle, it's those ideas of yours that have kept you single +till--twenty-six!--now _that_ you must confess was nice of me, to take +off _three_ years! + +BELLE. [_Laughing._] Jinny, you're horrid! + +JINNY. No, I'm not! You know I'm _really_ fond of you, or you wouldn't +be my bridesmaid to-day; it's only that I want _your wedding_ to be as +happy as _mine_--that's all, and here's a little gift for you to +remember your disagreeable but loving friend by! + + [_Giving her a small jewelry box._ + +BELLE. Thank you, Jinny! Thank you! + + [_A little moved._ + +GRACE. Mercy! I hope you're not going to take each one of us! + +JINNY. I am, and come here, _you're_ next! + +GRACE. I'll swear I don't want to get married at all! + +JINNY. Don't be silly, you _icicle_! Of course you don't; you freeze +all the men away, so that you've no idea how nice and comfy they can +be! My advice to you, Grace darling,--and I _love_ you, or I wouldn't +bother,--is to _thaw_! [_Laughs._] I used to be awfully jealous of you-- + +GRACE. [_Interrupting._] Oh! + +JINNY. Yes, I was! You're lots prettier than I am. + +GRACE. Jinny! + +JINNY. You _are_! But I got over it because I soon saw you were so cold, +there was no danger of any conflagration near you! Oh, I've watched your +_eyes_ often to see if any man had lighted the fires in them yet. And +now I'm determined they shall be lighted. You're too _cold_! Thaw, +dear,--not to _everybody_,--that would be like slushy weather, but +don't keep yourself so continually so far below zero that you won't have +time to strike--well--say eighty-five in _the shade_, when the right bit +of masculine sunshine _does_ come along! Here--with my best love! + + [_Giving her a small jewelry box._ + + [_GRACE kisses JINNY._ + +GERTRUDE. I am the next _victim_, I believe! + +JINNY. All I've got to say to _you_, Miss, is, that if you don't decide +pretty soon on _one_ of the half dozen men you are flirting with +_disgracefully_ at present, they'll every one find you out and you'll +have to go in for widowers. + +GERTRUDE. [_Mockingly._] Horrors! + +JINNY. Oh, I don't know! I suppose a widower is sort of _broken in_ and +would be more likely to put up with your caprices! For the sake of your +charm and wit and true heart underneath it all, you dear old girl you! + + [_Giving her a small jewel box._ + +GERTRUDE. Thank you, Jinny. I'm only afraid I will do the wrong thing +with you away! You know you're always my ballast! + +JINNY. Nonsense! Female ballast is no good; masculine ballast is the +only kind that's safe if you want to make life's journey in a love +balloon. [_SHE turns to RUTH CHESTER._] Ruth--the trouble with you is, +you're too sad lately, and show such a lack of interest. I should think +you might be in love, only I haven't been able to find the man. Anyway, +if you aren't in love, you must _pretend_ an interest in things. Of +course, men's affairs are awfully dull, but they don't like you to talk +about them, so it's really very easy. All you have to do is listen, +stare them straight in the eyes, think of whatever you like, and +look pleased! It _does_ flatter them, and they think _they_ are +_interesting_, and you _charming_! Wear this, and think of me! [_Giving +her a box._] and be happy! I _want_ you to be _happy_--and I can see you +aren't! + +RUTH. [_Kissing her._] Thank you, dear! + +JINNY. There, that's all!--except--when I come home from abroad in +October, if every one of you aren't engaged to be married, I'll wash my +hands of you-- + + [_They all laugh._ + + [_SUSIE, sliding off her chair at back, comes forward._ + +SUSIE. Now, it's my turn! You can't chuck me! + +JINNY. [_Trying not to laugh._] Susie! where did you come from and _what +do_ you mean? + +SUSIE. Oh, you give me a pain!--I went up the aisle with you to-day, +too--what's the matter with telling me how to get married! + +JINNY. I'll tell you this, your language is dreadful; where do you get +all the boy's slang? You don't talk like a lady. + +SUSIE. I'm not a lady. I'm a little girl! + +JINNY. You _talk_ much more like a common boy. + +SUSIE. Well, I'd rather _be_ a _boy_! + +JINNY. Susie, I shall tell Aunt Laura her daughter needs looking after. + +SUSIE. Oh, very well, cousin Jinny. If you're going to make trouble, +why, forget it! + + [_Turns and goes out haughtily, Right._ + +JINNY. [_Going to the double doors, calls._] Now you can come in, Jack. + + [_AUSTIN enters._ + +AUSTIN. And now I've only time to say good-by. All your guests have gone +except the Cullinghams, who are upstairs with your mother, looking at +the presents. + +GERTRUDE. Come! All hands around him! + + [_The five GIRLS join hands, with AUSTIN in the centre._ + +BELLE. We don't care if every one else has gone or not, _we're_ here +yet! + +AUSTIN. So I see! But I am ordered by my father-in-law--ahem! [_all +laugh_] --to go to my room, or he thinks there will be danger of our +losing our train. + +ALL THE BRIDESMAIDS. [_Ad lib._] Where are you going? Where are you +going? We won't let you out till you tell us. + +AUSTIN. I daren't--I'm afraid of my wife! + +JINNY. Bravo, Jack! + +GRACE. Very well, then, we'll let you out, on _one_ condition, that you +kiss us all in turn. + + [_The GIRLS laugh._ + +JINNY. No! No! [_Breaking away._] He shan't do any such thing! + + [_They all laugh and break up the ring._ + +GERTRUDE. Dear me, isn't she jealous! + +BELLE. Yes, it is evidently time we all went! Good-by, Jinny! [_Kissing +her._] A happy journey to _Washington_! + +JINNY. No, it isn't! + + [_General good-bys. JINNY begins with RUTH at one end, and AUSTIN at + the other; he says good-by and shakes hands with each girl._ + +GERTRUDE. [_Kissing JINNY._] Good-by, and a pleasant trip to _Niagara +Falls_! + +JINNY. Not a bit! + +GRACE. [_Kissing JINNY._] Good-by, I believe it's _Boston_ or _Chicago_! + +JINNY. _Neither!_ + +RUTH. Good-by, dear, and all the happiness in the world! + + [_Kisses her._ + +JINNY. Thank you. + + [_She turns and goes with the other three girls to the double doors at + back, where they are heard talking._ + +RUTH. Mr. Austin? + +AUSTIN. Yes? + + [_Joining her._ + +RUTH. [_Embarrassed._] You like your new brother, _don't_ you? + +AUSTIN. Geof? most certainly I do, and Jinny adores him. + +RUTH. I know, then, you'll be a good friend to him if he needs one. + +AUSTIN. Surely I will. + +RUTH. I think he does need one. + +AUSTIN. Really-- + + [_The GIRLS are passing out through the doors._ + +BELLE. Come along, Ruth. + + [_THEY pass out and JINNY stands in the doorway talking to them till + they are out of hearing._ + +RUTH. Sh! please don't tell any one, not even Jinny, what I've said! I +may be betraying something I've no right to do, and don't tell _him_ +I've spoken to you. + +AUSTIN. All right! + + [_JINNY turns around in the doorway._ + +RUTH. Thank you--and good-by. + + [_Shaking his hand again._ + + [_JINNY notices that they shake hands twice. A queer little look comes + into her face._ + +AUSTIN. Good-by. + +RUTH. Have they gone?--Oh! [_Hurrying past_ JINNY.] Good-by, dear. + + [_She goes out through the double doors._ + +JINNY. [_In a curious little voice._] Good-by.... + +[_She comes slowly down the room toward AUSTIN, and smiles at him +quizzically._] What were you two saying? + +AUSTIN. Good-by! + +JINNY. But you'd said it once to her already! Why did you have to say +good-by _twice_ to _Ruth_? Once was enough for all the other girls! + +AUSTIN. [_Banteringly._] The first time _I_ said good-by to _her_, and +the second time _she_ said good-by to _me_! + +JINNY. Do you know what I believe--_Ruth Chester's in love with you_! + +AUSTIN. Oh, darling! + + [_Laughs._ + +JINNY. Yes, that explains the whole thing. No wonder she was _triste_ +to-day. + +AUSTIN. [_Laughing._] Jinny, sweetheart, don't get such an absurd notion +into your head. + +JINNY. [_Looks straight at him a moment, then speaks tenderly._] +No--no--I know it's not your fault. There was no other woman in this +house for you to-day but _me_, _was_ there? + +AUSTIN. There was no other woman in the world for me since the first +week I knew you. + + [_Taking her into his arms._ + +JINNY. This is good-by to _Jinny Tillman_! + + [_He kisses her._ + +Jack, darling, do you think I could sit on your knee like a little child +and put my arm around your neck and rest my head on your shoulder for +just five seconds--I'm _so tired_! + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM opens the door._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh! + + [_Shuts the door very quickly and knocks._ + + [_JINNY and AUSTIN laugh._ + +JINNY. Yes, yes--come in! + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM enters. She is a handsome, whole-souled, florid + woman; one of those creatures of inexhaustible vitality who make + people of a nervous temperament tired almost on contact by sheer + contrast. She is the kindest, best meaning creature in the world._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, do excuse me! I haven't any more tact!--and I hate +to interrupt you, but I must say good-by. [_Calls._] Peter! + +PETER. Yes'm. + + [_Entering with a glass of water and a powder. He sits in the + arm-chair at right, and constantly looks at his watch._ + +AUSTIN. I'm much obliged to you, Mrs. Cullingham, for the interruption, +as I was sent long ago to make myself ready for the train, if you'll +excuse me! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Certainly! + +JINNY. Good-by! + + [_Taking his hand as he passes her._ + +AUSTIN. Good-by! + + [_He goes out Right._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. If it's time for _him_, it's certainly time for _you_. +I won't keep you a minute! + +JINNY. No, really we've plenty of time,-- [_both sit on sofa._] Wasn't +it a lovely wedding! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I never saw a sweeter, my dear! And it was perfectly +elegant! Simply great! + +JINNY. And isn't Jack-- + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. He is! And so are you! In fact I've been telling your +mother I don't know how to thank you both. You've asked me to-day to +meet the swellest crowd I've ever been in where I was _invited_, and +didn't have to buy tickets, and felt I had a right to say something +besides "excuse me," and "I beg your pardon." Of course, I've sat next +to them all before in restaurants and at concerts, but this time I felt +like the real thing myself, and I shall never forget it! If you or your +husband ever want any mining tips, come to me; what my husband don't +know about mines isn't worth knowing! + +JINNY. I'm as glad as I can be if you've had a good time, and you +mustn't feel indebted to us. Ever since we met in Egypt that winter, +mamma and I have always felt you were one of our best friends. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Of course you know it isn't for _my own_ sake I'm doing +these stunts to get into Society. It's all for _my boy_. He's _got_ to +have the best--or the _worst_, however you look at it! [_Laughing._] +Anyway, I want him to have a chance at it, and it belongs to him through +his father, for my first husband was a real swell! + + [_Looking at PETER lovingly._ + + [_At this moment, PETER, having again looked at his watch, tips up the + powder on his tongue, and swallows it down with the water._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Poor darling! He suffers terribly from indigestion. +That's an alkali powder he takes twenty minutes after eating. Peter, we +must say good-by now. + +PETER. [_Coming up._] Good-by, Miss Jinny. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. _Mrs. Austin!_ + +JINNY. Oh, I'll always be "Miss Jinny" to Peter! + +PETER. Thank you! We've had a great time at your wedding! _Bully food!_ +But I'm _feeling_ it! [_He turns aside._] Excuse me! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I was just telling Mrs. Austin-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +JINNY. "Jinny"--don't change. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Thank you-- [_Rises to go._] I was just saying we won't +forget in our social life, will we, Peter, that Miss Jinny gave us the +biggest boost up we've had yet? + + [_JINNY also rises._ + +PETER. Well, you know, mother, I don't think the game's worth the +candle. It's begun to pall on me already. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I really think he's going to be superior to it! + +PETER. I only go now for your sake. + + [_MRS. TILLMAN, coming from Right, speaks off stage._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Jinny! Jinny! + +JINNY. Mother! + + [_MRS. TILLMAN enters._ + +JINNY. I ought to dress? + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_To MRS. CULLINGHAM._] She'll be late if she isn't +careful. + +JINNY. I'm going to. Is Maggie there? + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, waiting! + +JINNY. Good-by. [_Kisses MRS. CULLINGHAM._] Good-by. [_Shakes PETER'S +hand._] + +PETER. Many happy returns! + + [_JINNY goes out Right._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Come, I want to give you some of Jinny's flowers to take +home with you. Would you like some? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I should love them! + + [_They go out through the doors at back._ + + [_PETER is suffering with indigestion. He takes a charcoal tablet, and + SUSIE cautiously enters Right._ + +SUSIE. There you are! Have you got 'em? + +PETER. No, I gave them back to you. + +SUSIE. Then they're in there on the table--get 'em quick, the trunks are +coming down now! + + [_PETER goes out quickly at back, as the BUTLER and MAN SERVANT enter + Right, carrying a large new trunk with a portmanteau on top of it._ + +SUSIE. Put them right over there for a minute! [_They put them down in +the centre of the room, and the FOOTMAN goes out Right._] And mind, you +don't split on us, Thomas. Auntie Tillman knows all about it--it's just +to be a nice little surprise for Cousin Jinny and my new uncle. + +BUTLER. Very well, miss. + + [_He also goes out Right._ + + [_At the same time PETER reënters at back with a roll of papers and + some broad white satin ribbon. The papers are about half a foot broad + and two feet long, and on them is printed, "We are on our honeymoon."_ + +PETER. [_With gay excitement._] I've got 'em. + +SUSIE. Get some water--there's sticky stuff on the back! + + [_PETER gives her the papers and ribbons and goes out again at back._ + +SUSIE. Quick! [_Ties a big white bow on the portmanteau and on a trunk +handle._] If Auntie Tillman sees 'em, I'll bet she'll grab 'em off. +She'll be as mad as _hops_! + + [_The BUTLER and FOOTMAN reënter Right, and bring down an old steamer + trunk and a gentleman's dressing-bag._ + +BUTLER. [_To the FOOTMAN._] Go and see if the carriage is there! + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir. + + [_He goes out Left._ + + [_As PETER reënters from the back, with the water._ + +SUSIE. Quick now! Quick! + + [_They stick one label on the big steamer trunk facing the audience._ + +PETER. I say isn't that great! + + [_SUSIE giggles aloud with delight. The BUTLER, standing at one side, + smiles. They put another label on the other trunk._ + +SUSIE. [_Giggling._] I heard them plan it,--they're taking one old trunk +purposely so as people would not catch on they were just married! + + [_Giggles delightedly._ + + [_The FOOTMAN reënters with a driver, Left._ + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir, it's here. + +BUTLER. [_To the driver._] You can take that first. + + [_Pointing to the steamer trunk._ + + [_DRIVER goes out Left with it on his shoulder, and the portmanteau._ + +BUTLER. Now, James, you're to go over with the luggage to Twenty-third +Street Ferry and check the heavy baggage; you know where to. + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir. + +SUSIE. [_Eagerly._] Oh, _where to?_ + +BUTLER. I am hunder hoath not to tell, Miss. + +SUSIE. O pish! + + [_Kneeling in the big arm-chair and watching proceedings from behind + its back._ + +BUTLER. [_Continues to the FOOTMAN._] And wait with the checks and Mr. +Austin's dressing-bag-- [_Showing it._] --until they come. + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir. + +PETER. And make haste, or, I say, somebody'll turn up and give our whole +joke away! + + [_The DRIVER reënters._ + +SUSIE. Yes, _do_ hurry! + +FOOTMAN. [_To the DRIVER._] Come along. + + [_They take the big trunk out Left. BUTLER follows with the + dressing-bag._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Calls from the room at back._] Peter darling, are you +there? + +SUSIE. Phew! Just in time! + + [_Sliding down into a more correct position in the chair._ + +PETER. Yes, mother! + + [_Going to back._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_In the doorway, at back._] Come, take these beautiful +roses from Mrs. Tillman! + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM and MRS. TILLMAN enter._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_With her arms full of roses._] Thomas will take them +down. + +PETER. No, I'd like to. Aren't they bully? + + [_He takes them._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_To MRS. TILLMAN._] Good-by, and thank you again. I +know you must want to go up to Jinny. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, she may need me to help her a little. Good-by. +Good-by, Peter. + +PETER. Good-by, ma'm. + + [_MRS. TILLMAN goes out Right._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Why, Susie, how do you do? + +SUSIE. [_Glides out of the chair and stands before it._] How do you do? + + [_Embarrassed._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. You're a good little girl, I hope? + +SUSIE. I don't! I hate good little girls! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. O my! + + [_She goes out, laughing, Left._ + + [_PETER, coming to SUSIE, catches her in his arms and kisses her, much + against her will._ + +SUSIE. [_Furious._] Oh, you horrid, nasty thing, you! [_She strikes at +him; he runs; she chases him from one side of the room to the other, +around a sofa and table, and out Left, screaming as she chases him._] I +hate you! I hate you! + + [_MAGGIE enters Right._ + +MAGGIE. Miss Susie, Mrs. Tillman wants to see you upstairs. + +SUSIE. What for? + +MAGGIE. I don't know, Miss. + +SUSIE. Pshaw! have I got to go? All right! + + [_Going toward the door at Right._ + + [_AUSTIN enters, meeting SUSIE._ + +AUSTIN. Hello! Where are _you_ going? + +SUSIE. Oh, up to Auntie Tillman's room. Goodness knows what for; it's an +awful bore! Want to come along? + +AUSTIN. No, thank you; but if you see your Cousin Jinny, you might tell +her I am down. + +SUSIE. [_Hanging on to him._] I say! Where are you and Cousin Jinny +going to, anyway? + +AUSTIN. [_Smiling._] I don't know. + +SUSIE. O my, what a fib! And that's a nice example to set a little girl! + + [_She goes out Right._ + +MAGGIE. [_Coming forward._] I beg pardon, sir, but may I speak to you a +minute? + +AUSTIN. Certainly, Maggie, what is it? + +MAGGIE. I've been trying for a chance to see you alone. I wouldn't +bother you, sir--but it's only because I'm fond of Miss Jinny, and of +Mr. and Mrs. Tillman, and they've all been so good to me; I know it +would nearly kill 'em if they knew. + +AUSTIN. Come, Maggie, knew what? + +MAGGIE. Well, _one member_ of this family ain't been good to me, sir. +[_From this point her feelings begin to get the better of her and she +speaks rapidly and hysterically._] He's been bad, bad as he could, and +somebody's got to talk to him, and I don't see who's a-goin' to do it +but you. If he don't change, I'll not hold my tongue any longer. It's +all I can do for their sakes to hold it now! + +AUSTIN. Look here, what are you talking about? You don't mean Mr. +Geoffrey? + +MAGGIE. Yes, I do, sir; he's my husband. + +AUSTIN. What!! + +MAGGIE. We was married when he was at Yale, sir; I was in a shop there. + +AUSTIN. But--! Well, after all, isn't this your and Geoffrey's affair? +Why bring me in? + +MAGGIE. Because he's making love to Miss Chester, and promising to marry +_her_ now, and if he don't stop--I'll make trouble! + +AUSTIN. But if he's married to you, as you say--he can't marry--any one +else. + +MAGGIE. He's tried to make me believe our marriage ain't legal, because +he was only twenty and he'd been drinking! + +AUSTIN. What makes you think Mr. Geoffrey cares for--Miss Chester? + +MAGGIE. I just heard and see him making love to her _here_! + +AUSTIN. This is a pretty bad story, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes, sir, and the worst is, sir, I know I ain't good enough for +him, and that's why I've kept still about it these three years, but I +can't help loving him no matter how ugly he's treated me. [_Breaking +down into tears._] I just can't help it! I _love_ him, sir, even if I'm +only a servant girl, and I can't stand it thinking he's going to try and +get rid of me for some one else! + + [_She sobs out loud._ + +AUSTIN. Sh!--Maggie. Sit down a minute, and control yourself. +Somebody'll hear you, and besides they'll be coming down presently. I'll +have a talk with Mr. Geoffrey when I come back-- + + [_Interrupted as GEOFFREY enters Left. He doesn't see MAGGIE, who is + collapsed in a corner of the sofa._ + +GEOFFREY. [_To AUSTIN._] Ah! Thank goodness I've caught you; I had an +awful headache and went out for a breath of air, and then I was afraid I +might have missed you! I knew in that case Jinny would never forgive me, +nor--I--myself--for that--matter-- + + [_His voice grows less exuberant in the middle of his speech and + finally at the end almost dies away, as he sees the expression in + AUSTIN'S face and realizes that something is wrong somewhere. When + he stops speaking, MAGGIE gives a gasping sob. He hears it, and + starting, sees her._ + +GEOFFREY. Maggie! + +AUSTIN. Geoffrey, is what this girl says true? + +GEOFFREY. That I married her in New Haven? Yes. + +MAGGIE. [_Rises._] I'll go, please, I'd rather go. + +AUSTIN. Yes, go, Maggie; it's better. + + [_MAGGIE goes out Right._ + +GEOFFREY. [_As soon as she is out of the room._] Promise me, Jack, you +won't tell any one! It's awful, I know! For two years at college I went +all to pieces and led a rotten life,--and one night, drunk, I married +her, and it isn't so much her fault. I suppose she thought I loved +her,--but this would break up the old lady and gentleman so, if they +knew, I couldn't stand it! And Jinny, for God's sake, don't tell Jinny. +_She respects me._ You won't tell her, will you? + +AUSTIN. No. But Maggie says you want to marry some one else now. + +GEOFFREY. [_With a change, in great shame._] That's true, too. + + [_He sits in utter dejection on the sofa._ + +AUSTIN. How are you going to do it? + +GEOFFREY. I must make money somehow and buy off Maggie. + +AUSTIN. Yes, go out to Sioux Falls, get a divorce there on respectable +grounds, and settle a sum of money on Maggie. + +GEOFFREY. But I can't do that! + +AUSTIN. Why not? + +GEOFFREY. I can't do anything that would give publicity, and that +divorce would. + +AUSTIN. Any divorce would; you can't get rid of that. + +GEOFFREY. I tell you I can't have publicity. Ruth--Miss Chester--would +hear of it. + +AUSTIN. Well, if she loves you, she'll forgive your wild oats, +especially as every one sees now what a steady, straight fellow you've +become. + +GEOFFREY. It's Ruth! But I can't do that. No, Jack, you must help--you +will, won't you? Oh, _do_, for Jinny's sake! Help me to persuade Maggie +to keep silent for good, tear up that certificate of marriage. I was +only twenty; it's hardly legal, and I'll settle a good sum-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +AUSTIN. [_Going straight to him, puts his hand heavily on his +shoulder._] Good God, you're proposing bigamy! You've done enough; don't +stoop to _crime_! + + [_The two MEN face each other a moment. GEOFFREY'S head drops._ + +AUSTIN. Forget you ever said that; do what I tell you when Jinny and I +have gone abroad, so she will be away from it a little, and if you want +money, let me know. + + [_JINNY enters Right, with nervous gaiety, covering an upheaving + emotion which is very near the surface._ + +JINNY. Ready! And there _you_ are, Geof. I've been sending all over the +house after you! Good-by! [_Throwing her arms about him._] Dear old +Geof! Haven't we had good times together! Always, always from the +youngest days I can remember--I don't believe there were ever a brother +and sister so sympathetic; I know there was never a brother such a +perfect darling as you were--I'll miss you, Geof! [_The tears come into +her voice, anyway._] I used to think I'd never marry at all if I +couldn't marry _you_, and I _do_ think _he_ is the only man in the world +who could have taken me away from home, so long as you were there! [_To +AUSTIN, smiling._] You aren't jealous? + +AUSTIN. No! + +JINNY. [_In jest._] Isn't it awful! You can't _make_ him jealous! I +think it's a positive flaw in his character! Not like--_us_, is he? + +GEOFFREY. Dear old girl-- + +JINNY. [_Whispers to him._] And I've noticed how you've overcome certain +things, dear Geof. I know it's been _hard_, and I'm proud of you. + +GEOFFREY. Sh! Jinny, dear old sister! I'll miss _you_! By George, Jin, +the house'll be awful without--but you-- [_His voice grows husky._] +--just excuse me a minute! + + [_He is about to break down, and so hurries out Right._ + +JINNY. [_Sniffling._] He was going to cry! Oh, Jack, you'll be a brother +to Geoffrey, won't you? You know he's been awfully dissipated, and he's +changed it all, all by himself! _If he should go wrong again_--I believe +it would break my heart, I love him so! + +AUSTIN. I'll do _more_ for him, if he ever needs me, than if he were _my +own_ brother, because he's _yours_! + +JINNY. [_Presses his hand and looks up at him lovingly and gratefully._] +Thank you. Wait here just a minute; I know he won't come back to say +good-by. He's gone up to his room, I'm sure--I'll just surprise him with +a hug and my hands over his eyes like we used to do years ago. + + [_She starts to go out Right, and meets MR. and MRS. TILLMAN, who + enter._ + +TILLMAN. The carriage is here! + +JINNY. I won't be a second-- + + [_She goes out Right._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Where has she gone? + +AUSTIN. Up to her brother. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Her father's been locked up in his study for three +hours--he _says_ thinking, but to _me_ his eyes look very suspicious! + + [_Taking her husband's arm affectionately._ + +TILLMAN. [_Clears his throat._] Nonsense! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Well, _how many cigars did you smoke_? + +TILLMAN. Eight. + +MRS. TILLMAN. The amount of emotion that a man can soak out of himself +with tobacco is wonderful! He uses it just like a sponge! + +TILLMAN. Jack, the first thing I asked about you when I heard +that--er--that things were getting this way was, does he smoke? A man +who smokes has always that outlet. If things go wrong--go out and smoke +a cigar, and when the cigar's _finished_, ten to one everything's got +right, somehow! If you lose your temper, don't speak!--a cigar, and when +it's finished, then speak! You'll find the temper all gone up in the +smoke! A woman's happiness is safest with a man who smokes. [_He clears +his throat, which is filling._] God bless you, Jack, it _is_ a wrench; +our only girl, you know. She's been a great joy--ahem! + + [_He quickly gets out a cigar._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Stopping him from smoking._] No, no, dear, they're +_going now_! + +TILLMAN. Well, the best I can say is, I wish you as happy a married life +as her mother and I have had. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Thirty-five _dear_ years! But now, George, let me say a +word--you always have monopolized our new son--he'll be much fonder of +you than _me_! + +TILLMAN. Old lady!--Jealous!-- + +MRS. TILLMAN. Turn about is fair play--you're jealous still of Jinny and +me. [_She pauses a moment._] I think we'd better tell him! + +TILLMAN. All right. The only rifts in our lute, Jack, have been little +threads of jealousy that have snapped sometimes! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Nothing ever serious--of course, _but_ it's a fault that +Jinny shares with us, and the _only fault_ we've ever been able to find. + +TILLMAN. We called her for years the girl with the green eyes. She goes +it pretty _strong_ sometimes! + +AUSTIN. Oh, that's all right--I shall _like_ it! + +MRS. TILLMAN. You'll always bear with her, won't you, if she should ever +get jealous of you? + +AUSTIN. Of _me_? I'll never give _her the chance_. + +MRS. TILLMAN. It isn't a question of chance; you just can't help it +sometimes, can you, George? + +TILLMAN. No, you can't. + +MRS. TILLMAN. And so-- + +AUSTIN. Don't worry! Your daughter's safe with me. I'm not the jealous +sort myself and I love Jinny so completely, so calmly, and yet with my +heart, and soul, and mind, and body, she'll never have a _chance_ even +to _try_ to be jealous of _me_! + +TILLMAN. Sh! + + [_JINNY enters Right._ + +JINNY. I found poor Maggie up in my room crying! She says she can't bear +to have me go away. I think she's sorry now she wouldn't come with me as +maid--and I said good-by to cook and she sniffed! + + [_AUSTIN looks at his watch._ + +AUSTIN. Oh! we ought to go! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Good-by, darling! + + [_Kissing JINNY and embracing her a long time, while AUSTIN and + TILLMAN shake hands warmly and say good-by._ + +JINNY. [_Going to her father._] Good-by, father. Dear old father! + + [_With happy emotion._ + + [_AUSTIN meanwhile is shaking hands with MRS. TILLMAN._ + +JINNY. [_Returns to her mother._] Darling--oh, how good you've always +been to me! Oh, mummy darling, I _shall_ miss you! You'll send me a +letter to-morrow, won't you, or a telegram? Send a telegram--you've got +the address! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_With tears in her eyes._] Yes, it's written down! + +JINNY. You can tell father, but no one else! + + [_Hugs and kisses her mother._ + +TILLMAN. Come, Susan! They'll lose their train! + + [_JINNY again embraces her father._ + +ALL. Good-by! Good-by! + + [_JINNY, starting to go with AUSTIN, suddenly leaves him and runs back + again to her mother and throws herself in her arms. They embrace, in + tears._ + +JINNY. Good-by, mother! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Good-by, my darling! + +TILLMAN. Come, come! they'll lose their train! + + [_JINNY runs to AUSTIN, and with his arms about her, they hurry to + the door Left. They go through the doors at back to window in the + corridor. JINNY stops at the door and she and AUSTIN face each other + a moment._ + +JINNY. [_Looking up at him._] Oh, Jack! + + [_She throws her arms about his neck and buries her face on his + shoulder._ + +AUSTIN. Jinny, Jinny dear, you're not sorry? + +JINNY. [_Slowly raises her head and looks at him, smiling through her +tears, and speaks in a voice full of tears and little sobs._] Sorry? Oh, +no! Oh, no! It hurts me to leave them, but I never was so _happy_ in my +life! + + [_He kisses her and they hurry out, with his arm about her._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_In the corridor, lifts the window._] I hear the door-- + +TILLMAN. There they are! + + [_SUSIE rushes across the stage with a bowl of rice in her arms and + goes out Left._ + + [_MR. and MRS. TILLMAN wave and say "Good-by!" "Good-by!" "Good-by!" + They close the window in silence. The sound is heard as the window + frame reaches the bottom. They turn and come slowly forward, TILLMAN + wiping his eyes and MRS. TILLMAN biting her lips to keep the tears + back. They come into the front room and stop, and for a second they + look around the empty room. TILLMAN puts his hand in his pocket and + takes out his cigar case. MRS. TILLMAN, turning, sees him; she goes + to him swiftly and touches his arm, looking up at him through her + tears. He turns to her and slowly takes her in his arms and holds + her there close and kisses her tenderly on the cheek._ + + [_SUSIE enters Left, with empty bowl, sobbing aloud, as_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + + +ACT II + +(_Two months later_) + + +_The Vatican, Rome; the Tribune of the Apollo Belvedere; a semicircular + room with dark red walls; in the centre is the large statue of Apollo. + There are doorways at Right and Left. There is a bench on the right + side of the room. A single LADY TOURIST enters Right, takes a hasty + glance, yawns, and looking down at her Baedeker, goes out Left. A + PAPAL GUARD is seen passing outside in the court. A FRENCHMAN and his + WIFE (with Baedekers) are seen approaching; they are heard talking + volubly. They enter Left._ + +BOTH. Ah!-- + + [_They stand a moment in silent admiration._ + +HE. [_Reading from Baedeker._] Apollo Belvedere. [_He looks up._] C'est +superb! + +SHE. [_Beaming with admiration._] Magnifique! Voilà un homme! + +HE. _Quelle grace!_ + +SHE. _Quelle force!_ + + [_Both talk at once in great admiration and intense excitement for + a few moments. Then he suddenly drops into his ordinary tone and + manner._ + +HE. Allons, allons nous! + +SHE. [_In the same tone._] Oui, j'ai faim! + + [_They go out Right._ + + [_JINNY and AUSTIN enter Left, he looking over his shoulder. They + stand a moment just inside the doorway._ + +JINNY. What are you looking back so much for, Jackie? + +AUSTIN. I thought I saw some one I know. + +JINNY. Who? + +AUSTIN. I didn't know who; it just seemed to be a familiar back. + +JINNY. [_Playfully._] Oh, come! I think the present works of art and +your loving wife are quite enough for you to look at without hunting +around for familiar backs! + +AUSTIN. And Baedeker! [_Reading from Baedeker about the Apollo._] Apollo +Belvedere, found at the end of the fifteenth century, probably in a +Roman villa-- + +JINNY. Of course, Apollo! + +AUSTIN. Great, isn't it? + +JINNY. Stunning! [_She turns and looks at him, smiling quizzically._] +_Still_--but I suppose I'm prejudiced! + +AUSTIN. [_Obtuse._] Still what? + +JINNY. You dear old stupid! You know, Jack, you're deeply and +_fundamentally_ clever and brilliant, but you're not quite-- _bright_-- +_not quick_! + + [_Laughing._ + +AUSTIN. Don't you think having _one_ in the family quick as chain +lightning is enough? What have I missed this time, Jinny? You don't mean +you've found a family likeness in the statue over there? I don't want to +be unappreciative, but it doesn't suggest your father to me in the +least,--nor even Geoffrey. + +JINNY. _Stupid!!_ Of course it doesn't _suggest_ anybody to me--I was +only thinking I sympathized with Mrs. Perkins of Boston,--don't you know +the old story about her? + +AUSTIN. No, what was it? + +JINNY. [_After a quick look around to see that they are alone._] +Well--Mrs. Perkins from Boston was personally conducted here once and +shown this very statue, and she looked at it for a few moments, and then +turned around and said, "Yes, it's all right, but give _me Perkins_!" + +AUSTIN. Jinny! + + [_Laughing._ + +JINNY. Are you shocked? Come, I'm tired; let's sit down here and read my +letters--there's one from Geof. + + [_They sit on the bench at Right, and JINNY takes out a letter from + GEOFFREY._ + +AUSTIN. I'll read ahead in Baedeker and you tell me if there's any news. +[_He opens the Baedeker and reads, and she opens and reads the letter._] +Where is Geof's letter from? + +JINNY. New York, of course; where else would it be? + +AUSTIN. I had an idea he was going away. + +JINNY. Geof! Where? + +AUSTIN. West, a good way somewhere. + +JINNY. But _why_ would he go West? + +AUSTIN. Oh, he had some business, I believe; I remember thinking it was +a good idea when he told me. It was the day we were married--I was +waiting for you to come downstairs. + +JINNY. I think it's very funny Geof never said anything about it to +_me_. + +AUSTIN. My dear, what time had _you_? You were _getting married_!! + +JINNY. I _was_! Thank heaven! I'm _so happy_, Jack! + + [_Snuggling up to him on the bench._ + +AUSTIN. [_Steals a little, quick hug with his arm about her waist._] +Bless you, darling, I don't think there was ever a man as happy as I am! + + [_They start apart quickly as a GERMAN COUPLE enter Right, with a + YOUNG DAUGHTER, who is munching a cake, and hanging, a tired and + unwilling victim, to her mother's hand._ + +WOMAN. Ach! schön! sehr schön!! + +MAN. Grösses, nicht? + +WOMAN. _Yah!_ + + [_They stand admiring._ + +AUSTIN. By the way, when you answer your brother's letter, I wish you'd +say I seemed surprised he was still in New York. + +JINNY. [_Reading._] Um--um-- + +MAN. [_Wiping his warm brow._] _Wunderbaum!_ + +WOMAN. _Yah!!_ + + [_They go out Left, talking._ + +JINNY. [_Looking up from her letter._] Oh! what do you think? + +AUSTIN. That you're the sweetest woman in the world. + +JINNY. No, _darling_, I mean _who_ do you think Geoffrey says is over +here and in Italy? + +AUSTIN. I haven't the most remote idea! So far as _I've_ been able to +observe there has been absolutely _no one_ in Italy but _you and me_. + +JINNY. If you keep on talking like that, I shall kiss you! + +AUSTIN. What! before the tall, white gentleman? [_Motioning to Apollo._] +I am dumb. + +JINNY. [_Very lovingly._] Silly! Well!--Mrs. Cullingham and Peter are +over here and have brought Ruth Chester! + +AUSTIN. [_Speaking without thinking._] Then it _was_ her back. + +JINNY. [_With the smallest sharpening of the look in her eye._] When? + +AUSTIN. That I saw just now. + +JINNY. [_With the tiniest suggestion of a strain in her voice._] You +said you didn't know whom it reminded you of. + +AUSTIN. Yes, I know, I didn't quite. + +JINNY. But if you thought it was Ruth Chester, why not have said so? + +AUSTIN. No reason, dear, I simply didn't think. + +JINNY. Well-- [_Sententiously._] --_next time--think!_ + +AUSTIN. What else does Geoffrey say? + +JINNY. Oh, nothing. The heat for two days was frightful--already they +miss me more than he can say-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +AUSTIN. I'll bet. + +JINNY. Father smoked nineteen cigars a day the first week I was gone. + +AUSTIN. _I_ haven't _had_ to smoke _any_! + +JINNY. Mercy! don't boast!--and he thinks they will all soon go to Long +Island for the summer. + +AUSTIN. Doesn't he say a word nor a hint at his going West? + +JINNY. No, he says he may go to Newport for August, and that's all. + + [_Putting away letter, and getting out others._ + +AUSTIN. Going to read all those? + +JINNY. If you don't mind, while I rest. _Do_ you mind? + +AUSTIN. Of course not, but I think while you're reading I'll just take a +little turn and see if I can't come across the Cullinghams. + + [_Rising._ + +JINNY. [_After the merest second's pause, and looking seriously at +him._] Why don't you? + +AUSTIN. I'll bring them here if I find them-- + + [_He goes out Right._ + + [_JINNY looks up where he went off and gazes, motionless, for a few + moments. Then she throws off the mood and opens a letter._ + + [_Two tired Americans enter Right, a girl and her mother, MRS. LOPP + and CARRIE._ + +MRS. LOPP. What's this, Carrie? + +CARRIE. [_Looking in her Baedeker._] I don't know; I've sort of lost my +place, somehow! + +MRS. LOPP. Well, we must be in Room No. 3 or 4--ain't we? + +CARRIE. [_Reads out._] The big statue at the end of Room No. 3 is Diana +the Huntress. + +MRS. LOPP. This must be it, then,--Diana! Strong-looking woman, ain't +she? + +CARRIE. Yes, very nice. You know she was the goddess who wouldn't let +the men see her bathe. + +MRS. LOPP. Mercy, Carrie! and did all the other goddesses? I don't think +much of their habits. I suppose this is the same person those Italians +sell on the streets at home, and call the Bather. + + [_JINNY is secretly very much amused, finally she speaks._ + +JINNY. Excuse me, but you are in one of the cabinets--and this is the +Apollo Belvedere. + +MRS. LOPP. Oh, thank you very much. I guess we've got mixed up with the +rooms,--seems as if there's so many. + +CARRIE. [_Triumphantly._] There! I _thought_ it was a man all the time! + +MRS. LOPP. Well, what with so many of the statues only being piecemeal, +as it were, and so many of the men having kinder women's hair, I declare +it seems as if I don't know the ladies from the gentlemen half the time. + +CARRIE. Did the rest of us go through here? + +JINNY. I beg your pardon? + +CARRIE. Thirty-four people with a gassy guide? We got so tired hearing +him talk that we jes' sneaked off by ourselves, and now we're a little +scared about getting home; we belong to the Cook's Gentlemen and Ladies. + +JINNY. Oh, no, the others haven't passed through here; probably they +have gone to see the pictures; you'd better go back and keep asking the +attendants the way to the pictures till you get there. + +MRS. LOPP. [_With rather subdued voice._] Thank you! We've come to do +Europe and the Holy Land in five weeks for $400--but I don't know, seems +as if I'm getting awful tired--after jes' sevin days. + +CARRIE. [_Affectionately._] Now, mommer, don't give up; it's because you +haven't got over being seasick yet; that's all! + +JINNY. [_Helplessly._] Oh, yes, you'll find it much less tiring in a few +days, I'm sure. + +MRS. LOPP. Still Rome does seem a powerful way from _home_! How'll we +ask for the pictures? + +CARRIE. Why, mommer! "Tableaux!" "Tableaux!" I should think you'd 'a' +learned that from our church entertainments! Good-by; thank you ever so +much. + +MRS. LOPP. You haven't lost _your party_, too, have you? + +JINNY. [_Smiling._] I hope not! He _promised_ to come back!! + +MRS. LOPP. Oh! pleased to have met you--Good-by! + + [_They start off Left._ + +JINNY. No, not that way--back the way you came. + +MRS. LOPP. Oh, thank you! + + [_She drops her black silk bag; out of it drop crackers, an account + book, a thimble, a thread-and-needle case, a bottle of pepsin tablets, + etc. They all stoop to pick the collection up, JINNY helping._ + +JINNY. [_Handing._] I'm sure you'll want these! + +MRS. LOPP. Yes, indeed; don't you find them coupon meals very +dissatisfactory? + +CARRIE. Thank you ever so much again. Come on, mommer! + + [_MRS. LOPP and CARRIE go out Left._ + + [_JINNY looks at her watch and goes back to her letter._ + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM enters Left._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Screams._] Jinny! + +JINNY. [_Jumps up._] Mrs. Cullingham! [_They embrace._] Did Jack find +you? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. No, we haven't seen him! Ruth and Peter are dawdling +along, each on their own; I like to shoot through a gallery. There's no +use spending so much time; when it's over you've mixed everything all up +just the same! + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] Well, I've this minute read a letter from Geoffrey +saying you were over here. And Jack, who thought he got a glimpse of you +a little while ago, went straight off to try and find you. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. What fun it is to see you--and how _happy_ you look! + +JINNY. I couldn't _look_ as happy as I _feel_! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Glancing at the statue._] Who's your friend? Nice +gent, isn't he? + + [_Laughing._ + +JINNY. Mr. Apollo! Would you like to meet him? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Hesitates._] Er--no--I don't think! You must draw the +line somewhere! He wouldn't do a thing to Corbett, would he? + +JINNY. Who was Corbett? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. He was a prize fighter, and _is_--but that's another +story-- Do you mean to say you've never heard of him? + +JINNY. Oh, the name sounds familiar. But this, you know, is Apollo. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. No, I don't know; was he a champion? + +JINNY. No, he was a Greek god! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, was he? Well, I wouldn't have cared about being in +the tailoring business in those days, would you? Let's sit down. [_They +sit on bench Right._] Of course you know we wouldn't accept a thing like +that in Peoria, where I come from, as a gift! No, indeed! If the King of +Italy sent it over to our Mayor, he'd return it C.O.D. + +JINNY. Sounds like Boston and the Macmonnies Bacchante! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, my dear, _worse_ than that! It reminds me of a man +at home who kept an underclothing store in our principal street and had +a plaster cast of this gent's brother, I should think, in his window to +show a suit of Jaegers on,--you know, a "combination"! And our Town +Committee of Thirteen for the moral improvement of Peoria made the man +take it out of his window and hang the suit up empty! + +JINNY. Poor man! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. You ought to see our Park!--you know we've got a +perfectly beautiful park,--and all the _men_ statues wear Prince +Alberts, and stand like this-- [_She poses with lifted arm at right +angle to body._] --as if they were saying, "This way out" or "To the +monkey cage and zoo." + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] But the women statues? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. My dear! They only have heads and hands; all the rest's +just clumps of drapery--we only have "Americans" and "Libertys," anyway. +They apply the Chinese emigration law to all Venuses and _sich ladies_! + + [_They both laugh._ + +JINNY. Where did you say Peter and Ruth were? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Well, I left Peter--who isn't at all well; I hoped this +trip would help his indigestion, but it seems to have made it worse!--I +left him--er--in a room with a lot of _broken-up Venuses_--I thought it +was all right; he was eating candy, and there wasn't a whole woman among +'em! + +JINNY. [_Slight strain in her voice._] How did you happen to bring over +Ruth Chester? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Well, you know I always liked her. She never snubbed me +in her life--I don't think any one you've introduced me to has been +quite so nice to Peter and me as Mrs. Chester and her daughter. + +JINNY. O they _are_ real people! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Ruth is terribly depressed over something. She's thin +as a rail and the family are worried. She says there's nothing worrying +her, and the doctors can't find anything the matter with her,--so Mrs. +Chester asked me if I wouldn't take her abroad. They thought the voyage +and change might do her good, and I seem to have a more cheery influence +over her than most people. So here we are! [_As PETER enters Left, +eating._] Here's Peter! How do you think the darling looks? + +PETER. How do you do, Mrs. Austin? + +JINNY. How do you do, Peter? [_They shake hands._] I'm sorry to hear you +are seedy, but you eat too many sweet things. + +PETER. I'm not eating candy; it's soda mints! [_Showing a small +bottle._] I _am_ bad to-day, mother. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. If you don't get better, we'll go to Carlsbad. + +JINNY. How do you like Rome, Peter? + +PETER. Oh, I don't know--too much Boston and not enough Chicago to make +it a real lively town. + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] I think I'll go look for Jack and tell him you've +turned up. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Perhaps he's found Ruth. + +JINNY. [_With a change in her voice._] Yes, perhaps. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +PETER. [_Going to the doorway Right, calls after her._] Ruth's in a room +on your left, with rows of men's heads on shelves, Emperors and +things,--but gee, such a _job lot_! + + [_Comes back and looks up at the statue._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Isn't it beautiful, Peter? + +PETER. No, it's _too big_! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Still this one isn't broken! + +PETER. That's a comfort! Yes, it has been mended, too! [_Examining._] +Oh, yes, it's only another of these second-hand statues. Say, you missed +one whole one, the best I've seen yet! A Venus off in a fine little +room, all mosaics and painted walls,--that's where I've been. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Why, Peter Cullingham! _Alone?_ What kind of a Venus? + +PETER. Oh, beautiful! I forgot to take my medicine! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Was she--er--_dressed_, darling? + +PETER. We--you know--she _had_ been, but she'd sort of pushed it a good +way off! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_With a sigh._] You know we _ought_ to admire these +things, Peter darling; that's partly what we've come to Europe for! + +PETER. O pshaw! here comes a gang of tourists. Come on, let's skip! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. But Ruth and Mrs. Austin? + +PETER. We didn't agree to wait, and we can all meet at our hotel. + + [_A crowd of TOURISTS, led by a GUIDE, presses and crowds in the + doorway. They drag their tired feet in a listless shuffle across the + room and stand in a somewhat sheepish and stupid bunch at the statue. + One or two of the younger women nudge each other and giggle. The GUIDE + stands a little in advance of them. The GUIDE describes the statue, + and while he is doing so PETER and MRS. CULLINGHAM go out Right. Most + of the TOURISTS turn and watch them go instead of looking at the + statue._ + +GUIDE. This is the Apollo Belvedere, discovered at the end of the +fifteenth century, some say in a Roman villa or farm-house near the +Grotter Terratter. Very fine specimen both as marble and man. This +statyer is calculated to make Sandow et cetery look like thirty cents. +Height seven feet, weight-- + +A MAN TOURIST. How much? + +A GIRL TOURIST. Was he married? + + [_Titters from the group._ + +GUIDE. Give it up! Should judge he was. The god once held a bow in his +left hand and probably a laurel wreath in his right. + +ANOTHER WOMAN TOURIST. A what? + +GUIDE. A laurel wreath. You want to take a good look at this, as it is a +very fine piece. Now come along, please--make haste; we must finish up +this place before feeding! + + [_He leads the way out Right, and the TOURISTS follow, shuffling + along, without speaking, MRS. LOPP and CARRIE lagging in the rear._ + + [_AUSTIN enters Left, followed by RUTH._ + +AUSTIN. This is where I left her with Apollo! [_Calls._] Jinny! She +seems to have gone! + + [_He looks behind the statue and out door, Right._ + +RUTH. Probably the Cullinghams, who were headed in this direction, found +her, and they've all gone back for us; you see I walked all around the +court first without going into the rooms, so I missed them, but found +you. + +AUSTIN. What shall we do? Sit down here and wait for them to come back, +or shall I go in search? + +RUTH. Oh, no, you might miss them, and then we'd all be lost! If you +left Jinny here, she's sure to come back to meet you. + + [_She sits on the bench and AUSTIN stands behind her._ + +AUSTIN. I'm sorry to learn you've been ill. + +RUTH. Oh! it's nothing. + +AUSTIN. Ah, I'm afraid it's a good deal. Will you forgive me if I say I +think I know what it is! + + [_She looks up startled._ + + [_After a moment._ + +You haven't forgotten the day of Jinny's and my wedding, when you told +me Geoffrey Tillman needed a friend? + +RUTH. I hoped _you'd_ forgotten; I oughtn't to have told you; I +_oughtn't_ to have! + +AUSTIN. Why not? I had a talk with Geoffrey, then, and he told me +everything. + +RUTH. He did! You are sure? + +AUSTIN. Sure. + + [_He sits beside her._ + +RUTH. That he and I-- + +AUSTIN. Love each other. + +RUTH. Oh, but that isn't all. + +AUSTIN. I know the rest! + +RUTH. He told you--about--about-- + +AUSTIN. The marriage?--Yes? + +RUTH. Oh, I'm so glad, so glad! Now I can speak of it to some one, and +some one who can advise me, and will help us. + +AUSTIN. I have already advised him, but he doesn't seem to be taking my +advice; it has worried me. + +RUTH. When I left he was awfully depressed. He said he saw no prospect +of being able to publish our marriage for years, maybe! + +AUSTIN. _What_ marriage? + + [_In astonishment._ + +RUTH. _Our_ marriage, in Brooklyn! [_She notices his expression and is +alarmed._] You said he had told you! + +AUSTIN. [_Recovering himself, and speaking at first with hesitation._] +Yes, but not the details, not--wait, I'm a little confused. [_Rising and +walking a moment._] Let's get it all quite clear now, that's the only +way I can help you--both; I ought, of course, to have gone through it +all with him, but there really wasn't time. + +RUTH. I can't go on like this much longer. It's killing me to deceive +mother; I _must_ tell her soon! + +AUSTIN. [_Quickly, stops walking._] No. You mustn't, not yet, if I'm +going to help you; you'll obey me, won't you? + +RUTH. Yes, if you only will help us! + +AUSTIN. You said you and Geoffrey Tillman were married where? + +RUTH. In Brooklyn. + +AUSTIN. When? + +RUTH. A month before your wedding. + +AUSTIN. [_To himself._] It's impossible! + + [_Walking up and down._ + +RUTH. [_Smiling sadly._] Oh, no! I remember the date only too well. + +AUSTIN. I didn't mean that. + +RUTH. I lied to my mother that day for the first time--at any rate, +since I was a child--and I've been lying to her ever since. + +AUSTIN. [_Probing her._] But--but why were you married so secretly? + +RUTH. We couldn't afford to marry and set up for ourselves. He expected +then to be sent off at once to the Philippines, and--well he didn't want +to leave me behind, free; I'm afraid he's rather jealous--you must have +found out by now that Jinny is. They all are! And _I_ didn't want him to +go so far off without my belonging to him either; _I'm_ that jealous, +too! [_Smiling._] So--that's why! + +AUSTIN. And this long period of secrecy since then--do you understand +that? + +Ruth. Hasn't he explained to you his debts? You know before he loved me +he was very fast, but since-- + +AUSTIN. Yes, I know how he gave up every one of his old habits with a +great deal of courage. + +RUTH. _Nobody_ knows what it cost him! How can you help us? Get him +something to do to pay off his debts? Or can't you make him feel even if +we do have to go on living at our different homes for a while, it is +better to publish the fact that we are married?-- + +AUSTIN. I shall go back at once to America if I can persuade Jinny! + +RUTH. And I, too? + +AUSTIN. No. You must stay abroad till I send word for you to come home. +If I am going to help you, you will help me by doing exactly as I say, +won't you? + +RUTH. Yes. + +AUSTIN. It's _very_ important that you should _absolutely obey me_! + +RUTH. _I will._ + + [_A pause._ + + [_JINNY, unnoticed by either of them, appears in the doorway at Right. + AUSTIN is walking up and down. RUTH is leaning her elbow on the back + of the bench and burying her face in her hands._ + +AUSTIN. It's awful! My God, it's awful! + +JINNY. [_In a strained, assumed, nonchalant tone._] _What is?_ + +RUTH. Jinny! + + [_Rising._ + +AUSTIN. I didn't hear you, Jinny! + +JINNY. No, you both seemed so absorbed. + +RUTH. [_Going to JINNY._] I'm so glad to see you. + + [_Kisses her, but JINNY only gives her her cheek and that rather + unwillingly; she is looking all the time at her husband._ + +JINNY. Thank you, I've just left the Cullinghams. They sent word to you +they were going and would wait for you outside. + +RUTH. Oh, then, I mustn't keep them waiting. We'll all meet at dinner +to-night, won't we? Good-by--good-by. + + [_With a grateful look at AUSTIN, she goes out Right._ + +JINNY. [_Watches her go; then turns to AUSTIN._] That wasn't true, what +I told her--I haven't seen the Cullinghams, and I don't know where they +are, and what's more, I don't care! + +AUSTIN. What do you mean? + +JINNY. [_Beginning by degrees to lose control of herself._] What did +_she_ mean by _following you_ to Rome? + +AUSTIN. Jinny! + +JINNY. Oh, don't try to deny it; that'll only make me suspect _you_! + +AUSTIN. My dear girl, you don't know what you're saying! + +JINNY. She's ill, they say at home! Yes, and they don't know what's the +matter with her, do they? No! But I can tell them! She's in love with +another woman's husband! + +AUSTIN. [_Taking her hand._] Hush! I won't allow you to say such things! + +JINNY. [_With a disagreeable little laugh._] Oh, won't you? _You'd_ +better be careful,--my eyes are opened! + +AUSTIN. Yes, and much too wide. + +JINNY. A half-blind person would have known there was something between +you two. When I came into this room just now, it was in the air--it was +in both your faces! + + [_She sits on the bench._ + +AUSTIN. You've worked yourself up to such a pitch you're not responsible +for what you're saying! + +JINNY. _I_ not _responsible_! What was it you were saying was _so_ +"awful" when I came in here? "My God, so awful!" + + [_He doesn't answer._ + + [_Almost hysterical, she rises._ + +She had told you she loved you! She'd confessed she'd followed you over +here! + +AUSTIN. Absolutely false, _both_ your suppositions! + +JINNY. Oh, of course you'd protect her; you're a gentleman! But if I +_thought_ you _knew_ she was coming over-- + +AUSTIN. Jinny! Jinny! How _can_ you have such a thought? + +JINNY. Well, why didn't you tell me when you thought you saw her a +little while ago? + +AUSTIN. Oh-- + +JINNY. Oh, it's very easy to say "Oh!" [_Imitating him._] but _why +didn't you_? + +AUSTIN. I told you I didn't think who it was; I only thought something +familiar flashed across my eyes. Jinny darling, this is sheer madness on +your part, letting yourself go like this. It has no reason, it has no +excuse! Ask your own heart, and your own mind, if in speaking to _me_ as +you have, you haven't done me at least an injustice and my love for you +a _little_ wrong. + +JINNY. Well, I'm sure _she's_ in love with you, anyway. + +AUSTIN. No, she isn't! And it's disgraceful of you to say so! I know she +isn't-- + +JINNY. How do you know she isn't? + +AUSTIN. There's no question of it. I'm sure of it! You mustn't think, +dear, that because _you_ love me, everybody does--you idealize me! + + [_Smiling apologetically._ + +JINNY. Oh, you're so modest you don't see! but I do--on the steamer, in +the hotels, everywhere we go, always, all the women admire you awfully! +I see it! + +AUSTIN. [_Laughing._] What utter nonsense! [_Taking her into his arms._] +You've got something in your _eyes_! + +JINNY. Only tears! + +AUSTIN. No, something else,--something _green_. + +JINNY. [_Laughs through her tears._] Somebody's told you my old +nickname! + +AUSTIN. What? + +JINNY. [_Laughs and is a little embarrassed._] The girl with the green +eyes. + +AUSTIN. Ahem!-- + +JINNY. Well, I don't care if it is appropriate, I can't help it. + + [_Slipping from his arms._ + +AUSTIN. You must--or it will threaten our happiness if you let yourself +be carried away by jealousy for no earthly reason outside of your dear, +little imagination, like you have this time-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +JINNY. You honestly don't think she cares for you? + +AUSTIN. Not a bit! + +JINNY. But what was it you were so serious about--what _is_ between you? + +AUSTIN. She is in a little trouble, and I happen to know about it. + +JINNY. How? + +AUSTIN. [_After a second's hesitation._] That you mustn't ask me; it was +not from her I knew of it. + +JINNY. Truly? + +AUSTIN. Truly. + +JINNY. I don't care, she hadn't any business to go to you! I should +think she'd have gone to a _woman_ instead of a _man_ for sympathy. +She's got Mrs. Cullingham! + +AUSTIN. She can't go to her, poor girl. Mrs. Cullingham knows nothing +about it. + +JINNY. Now don't you get too sympathetic--_that's very dangerous_! + +AUSTIN. Look out, your imagination is peeping through the keyhole. + + [_A moment's pause._ + +JINNY. [_In a sympathetic tone, the jealousy gone._] What is her +trouble, Jack? + +AUSTIN. That, dear, I can't tell you now; some day, perhaps, if you want +me to, but not now. Only I give you my word of honor, it has nothing to +do with you and me--does not touch our life! And I want you to tell me +you believe me, and _trust_ me, and won't let yourself be jealous again! + +JINNY. I do believe you, and I do trust you, and I will _try_ not to be +jealous again! + +AUSTIN. That's right. + +JINNY. You know that book of De Maupassant's [_They move away +together._] I was reading in the train the other day,--about the young +girl who killed herself with charcoal fumes when her lover deserted her? + +AUSTIN. [_Half laughing._] This is apropos of what, please? I have +absolutely _no_ sympathy with such people. + +JINNY. In America that girl would have simply turned on the gas. + +AUSTIN. You're getting morbid, Jinny! + +JINNY. No, I'm not! but if ever-- + +AUSTIN. [_Interrupting--laughing it off_.] I shall install _electric +light_ as soon as we get home! + + [_They both laugh._ + +JINNY. I'm sorry I was so disagreeable to Ruth, but I'll try to make up +for it in every way I can. + + [_She sits on the bench and he leans over the back toward her._ + +AUSTIN. There's one other thing, Jinny, I'd like to speak of now. Would +you mind giving up the Lakes and going home this week? + +JINNY. Going _home_--at once? + +AUSTIN. Yes--_Wall Street_ is very uncertain. I'm worried,--I don't mind +telling you,--and I want to see Geoffrey about his business. + +JINNY. [_Half in earnest._] Jack! You're not running away from _her_, +are you? + +AUSTIN. Jinny! _After all_ we've said! + +JINNY. No! I wasn't in earnest! I'm ready to go. I've seen the Lakes, +and whether you are in Italy or in New York, so long as we are together, +it's our honeymoon just the same. + +AUSTIN. And may it last _all our lives_! + +JINNY. Still, I don't mind owning up that leaving Ruth Chester behind +here is rather pleasanter! [_She rises quickly with a sudden thought._] +_She_ is not going back, too? + +AUSTIN. Oh, no, not for a long time. They are over here indefinitely. + +JINNY. I've been too horrid and nasty for words this morning, Jack--I'm +so sorry. + +AUSTIN. It's over and forgotten now. + +JINNY. You _do_ forgive me? + +AUSTIN. Of course, dear; only I want to say this one thing to you: to +suspect unjustly a _true_ love is to insult that love! + +JINNY. I didn't really suspect you. + +AUSTIN. Of course I know you didn't; this is only by way of a +grandfatherly warning! It is possible to insult a true love too +often--and love can die-- + +JINNY. Sh! don't, please, say any more. You have forgiven me, haven't +you? + +AUSTIN. Yes! + +JINNY. Then kiss me! + +AUSTIN. [_Smiling._] Here! My dear, some one will see us! + +JINNY. No, only Apollo; see, there's no one else about--it's luncheon +hour! + +AUSTIN. But-- + + [_Taking her hand._ + +JINNY. [_Pulling him._] Come along, then, behind the statue. No one will +see us there! + + [_They are behind the statue a moment and then come around the other + side._ + +JINNY. There! no one saw us, and I'm so _happy_, are you? + +AUSTIN. _"So happy!"_ + + [_JINNY takes his arm and they go to the Left entrance. She stops and + looks up at him._ + +JINNY. Are my eyes _green_ now? + +AUSTIN. Now they're _blue_! + +JINNY. Hurrah! and I'm going, from now on, to be _so good_, you won't +know me. + + [_And hugging his arm tight they go out as_-- + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + + +ACT III + +(_Three weeks later_) + + +_The Austins' library; a warm, attractive room, with dark woodwork, and + the walls hung in crimson brocade; Dutch marqueterie furniture; blue + and white china on the mantel and tops of the book shelves; carbon + photographs of pictures by Reynolds, Ronney, and Gainsborough on the + wall. There is a double window at the back. A door at Right leads to + the hall, and another on the Left side of the room leads to JINNY's + own room. MRS. TILLMAN sits at a pianola Right, playing "Tell me, + Pretty Maiden"; she stops once in a while, showing that she is + unaccustomed to the instrument. JINNY enters from Left, singing as + her mother plays._ + +JINNY. Darling mother! + + [_She puts her arms about her and kisses her._ + + [_They come away from the pianola together, to a big arm-chair._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. I really must get one of those sewing-machine pianos for +your father. I believe even he could play it, and it would be lots of +amusement for us. + +JINNY. Jack adores it; I gave it to him for an anniversary present. + +MRS. TILLMAN. What anniversary? + + [_Sitting in the chair._ + +JINNY. Day before yesterday. The eleventh Tuesday since our marriage. +Have you been in town all day? I _am_ glad to see you! + + [_She sits on the arm of the chair with her arm about her mother._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, and I told your father to meet me here and we'd take +the six-thirty train from Long Island City. + +JINNY. Jack and I are going to the theatre to-night. + +MRS. TILLMAN. I thought they were all closed! + +JINNY. Oh, no, there are several musical comedies on,--Jack's favorite +form of amusement,--and I've bought the tickets myself for a sort of +birthday party. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Is it his birthday? + +JINNY. No, that's only my excuse! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Laughing._] Had we dreamed you and Jack were coming home +in June, your father and I wouldn't have gone into the country so early. + +JINNY. We've been home two weeks and it hasn't been hot yet. + +MRS. TILLMAN. And you're still ideally happy aren't you, darling? + +JINNY. Yes-- + + [_She rises and goes to a table near the centre of the room and looks + at the titles of several books without realizing what they are._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why, Jinny,--what does that mean? + +JINNY. Oh, it's all my horrid disposition! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Been seeing green? + +JINNY. Um! Um! Once in Rome, and on the steamer, and again since we've +been back. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Nothing serious? + +JINNY. [_Hesitatingly, she turns and faces her mother._] No--but the +last time Jack was harder to bring around than before, and he looked at +me for fully five minutes without a particle of love in his eyes, and +they were almost--_dead_ eyes! + +MRS. TILLMAN. What was it all about? + +JINNY. Ruth Chester, principally. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why Ruth? + +JINNY. Well, the first real scene I made was in Rome in the Vatican. I +was jealous of her; I can't explain it all to you--as a matter of fact, +it hasn't been all explained to _me_! Something was troubling Ruth that +Jack knew, and he said he'd help her. + +MRS. TILLMAN. What? + +JINNY. That's just it; Jack won't tell me. And the day we sailed from +Naples a telegram came, and of course I opened it, and it said, "Trust +me, I will do everything you say. Ruth." + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why haven't you told me anything of all this before, dear? + +JINNY. [_Going back to her mother._] I was ashamed to! Somehow, in the +end I always knew I was wrong and had hurt him--hurt him terribly, +mother, the man I love better than everything else in the world! Yes, +even better than you and father and Geoffrey--all together! + + [_In her mother's arms, crying a little._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Oh, this curse of jealousy! I was in hopes he was so +strong he would help you to overcome it. + +JINNY. He does try hard, I can see sometimes; but he hasn't a spark of +it in him, and he can't understand it, and I know I'm unreasonable, and +before I know it I am saying things I don't know what, and some day he +won't forgive them! I'm sure some day he won't!-- + + [_Breaking down again._ + + [_She rises and turns away._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Rising and putting her arms about her._] Come, dear! Now +you're getting yourself all unstrung, and that won't do you any good; +you've got to fight this battle out, I'm afraid, by yourself, trusting +in the deep love of your husband to teach him forbearance. Your father's +and my troubles were never very big because we _shared_ the curse, so we +knew how to sympathize with each other! + +JINNY. What an awful thing it is! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, my dear child. Jealousy has no saving grace, and it +only destroys what is always most precious to you. Jinny, don't let it +destroy _your best_ happiness! + +JINNY. Mother, if it _should_, I'd kill myself! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Shocked, but quite disbelieving her._] My dear! + + [_MAGGIE enters Right._ + +MAGGIE. Mr. Tillman is downstairs, madam. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Tell him to come up. + +MAGGIE. Yes, madam. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +JINNY. Don't tell father anything before me. + +MRS. TILLMAN. I don't know that I shall tell him at all; he would only +advise more cigars! + + [_TILLMAN enters Right._ + + [_MRS. TILLMAN sits on the sofa at Left._ + +TILLMAN. Are you here? + +JINNY. [_Going to meet him._] We are, father dear, and your presence +_almost_ completes us. [_Kisses him._] I say _almost_, because Jack +hasn't come up town yet, and Geoffrey's heartless enough to stay on +fishing at Cape Cod! + +TILLMAN. No, he isn't; he's back to-day. + + [_He sits in the arm-chair at Right._ + +JINNY. Oh, I do want to see him! + + [_Sitting near her father._ + +TILLMAN. He ought to have been in by now--I met them this morning. He +was to lunch with Jack, and he's going to put up for a few days at the +University. + +JINNY. He must dine with us every night. + +TILLMAN. Jinny!-- [_Looking at her._] --You look as if you've been +crying! + + [_The two WOMEN are embarrassed, and JINNY doesn't reply._ + +TILLMAN. [_Hurt._] Oh, if you prefer to have secrets from your father, +it's all right! _I don't begrudge_ your mother her _first place_ in your +affections! + +JINNY. Not at all, father; with you and mother there's no first place. +She will tell you all about it on the way home! Please, mother. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Very well, dear. + +TILLMAN. A little "scrap" between you and Jack? + +JINNY. Yes, but it's all over! + +TILLMAN. Um!-- [_Thinks a second, then taking out his cigar case, he +empties it of cigars and hands them to JINNY._] Give your husband these, +please, when he comes in! + + [_JINNY and her MOTHER exchange a smile._ + +JINNY. But, father, Jack's got boxes full-- + +TILLMAN. Never mind; give him those, _from me, with my compliments_! + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] Very well! + +TILLMAN. How are you and Maggie getting on? + +JINNY. Splendidly. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Such a nice girl! + +JINNY. And wasn't it odd Jack was bitterly opposed to my taking her? + +MRS. TILLMAN. My dear, if we hadn't lent her to you for these few weeks, +you wouldn't have got anybody decent for so short a time. + +TILLMAN. Why didn't Jack want her to come? + +JINNY. I don't know, he just didn't want her; and then last week he +talked with her in the library for three-quarters of an hour by my +watch. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why? + +JINNY. Oh, it seems _she_ has troubles, too! All single young women with +troubles, of no matter what class, seem to make a bee line for my +husband, even if they have to cross the ocean! + +TILLMAN. What do you mean? + +JINNY. [_Half laughing._] Oh, nothing, but it was about that talk with +Maggie that we had our last quarrel. + + [_MAGGIE enters Right._ + +MAGGIE. Mrs. Cullingham. + + [_A second's dead silence, the announcement falling like a bombshell._ + +JINNY. [_Astounded._] _Who?_ + + [_She rises._ + +TILLMAN AND MRS. TILLMAN. _Who?_ + +MAGGIE. Mrs. Cullingham and her son, madam. + +JINNY. They're in Europe. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Are you sure you're not mistaken, Maggie? + +MAGGIE. Oh, yes'm. Even if you _could_ mistake Mrs. Cullingham, you +couldn't mistake Mr. Peter! + +JINNY. Ask them to please come up, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes'm. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +TILLMAN. Why, they only just sailed the other day, didn't they? + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, and they were supposed to be gone all summer at +least, for Ruth Chester's health! What in the world can they have come +back for? + +JINNY. [_With curious determination._] _That_ is what _I_ intend to find +out. + +TILLMAN. [_Rising._] We must be going, Susan; we've lost our train as it +is. + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Rising._] We can take the seven-two. + + [_MAGGIE shows in MRS. CULLINGHAM and PETER. PETER shakes hands with + MRS. TILLMAN, then with JINNY, and then with MR. TILLMAN._ + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM kisses MRS. TILLMAN and shakes hands with MR. + TILLMAN._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Jinny, you angel, aren't you surprised! + + [_Kissing her._ + +JINNY. Well, rather! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Well, you aren't a bit more surprised than I am. [_A +clock strikes six-thirty._] There goes the half hour, Peter; you must +take your powder. + +PETER. I beg your pardon, mother; it's the tablet now. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Excuse me, dear, I'm so dead tired. + + [_Sits on the sofa._ + +JINNY. [_To Peter._] Will you have some water? + +PETER. No, thank you, I've learned now to take them _au naturel_, and +without much, if any, inconvenience! + + [_Takes his tablet with still a certain amount of difficulty, and sits + Right._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_To MRS. CULLINGHAM._] Did you have a bad voyage? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. No, perfectly beautiful! + +PETER. [_Reproachfully, and with a final swallow._] Oh, mother! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Except, of course, for poor Peter; he gets worse every +trip! He can eat _absolutely nothing_--that is _for long_! But it's the +Custom House that's worn me out; I was there from twelve till four. + +MRS. TILLMAN. But you wouldn't have had time to buy anything! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Of course not! But I took plenty of new dresses for the +entire summer; most of them hadn't been worn, and they were determined +to make me pay duty. + +JINNY. We had to pay awfully for things! I wanted to try and smuggle, +but Jack wouldn't let me! + +MR. TILLMAN. I'm afraid _we_ must go! + + [_ALL rise._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. What do you think the Inspector had the impudence to +ask me finally,--if I wanted to bring the dresses in as theatrical +properties! + + [_They laugh._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. You must have some _gorgeous_ frocks! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, there are some _paillettes_! But who do you suppose +he took me for--Sarah Bernhardt! + +TILLMAN. [_Looking at his watch._] I don't wish to interrupt this vital +political conversation, but, Susan, if you don't want to miss the +seven-two train, too--! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Rising._] Oh, no, we mustn't do that. Good-by. [_To MRS. +CULLINGHAM, shaking hands._] It's nice to see you again, anyway. Is Ruth +better? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I'm sorry to say--I don't think she is--good-by. + + [_To MR. TILLMAN, who says good-by_--_general good-bys._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_To JINNY._] You want me to tell your father? + +JINNY. Yes, it's better; it does make him jealous if he thinks I tell +you things and keep secrets from him. + +TILLMAN. Good-by, Peter. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Good-by, Peter. + +PETER. By-by. + + [_MR. and MRS. TILLMAN quickly go out Right, JINNY going to the door + with them._ + +JINNY. [_Coming back from doorway._] Now do tell me what it means. I +thought you were abroad indefinitely, or for the summer at least. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. So did I! I'm just as surprised to be here as you _seem +to be_! [_They sit down near each other._] Didn't you really know we +were coming? + +JINNY. No! How should I? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I don't know--I thought-- + + [_She hesitates, embarrassed._ + + [_After a pause._ + +JINNY. What did you think? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Nothing, except that you must know we were coming home. + +JINNY. Why--that _I_ must? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. You mustn't put me into a corner like that! + +JINNY. How do you mean "corner"? How did you happen to come home like +this? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Ruth suddenly got a cable--she didn't tell me from +whom--but she said she must go home at once. + +JINNY. But her mother's never been better! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Carelessly._] The cable wasn't from her mother. + +JINNY. Oh, then, you know who it was from? [_No answer._] Oh, I see now +why you thought I ought to know about it; the cable was from _Jack_, +_wasn't it_? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Relieved._] Yes. + +JINNY. Oh, it was! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I looked at it when she was out of the room; of course, +it was sort of by accident-- [_Very much embarrassed._] --that is, +I just happened to see--O dear, there! You know what I mean; it was +dreadful of me, but I couldn't help it. + +JINNY. [_In a strained voice._] Jack and Ruth are very good friends and +he looks after some of her affairs. You know having no man in the family +complicates things. + +PETER. Oh! I say! + + [_Standing up, suddenly._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. What _is it_, dear? + +PETER. I believe I haven't got my before-dinner tabs. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, look carefully! + +PETER. [_He looks in his right-hand pocket, takes out a bottle._] Soda +mints! [_From his left-hand pocket a box._] Alkali powders! [_From third +pocket a bottle._] Charcoal tablets! [_From fourth pocket another +bottle._] Dr. Man's Positive Cure! [_From fifth pocket a box._] +Bicarbonate soda! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. There's your other side pocket! + +PETER. That's my saccharine [_Showing bottle._] and my lithia tabs. +[_Showing another bottle._] We'll have to go, mother; I've left them +home! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. We must go, anyway, my dear. + + [_Rising._ + + [_JINNY also rises._ + +PETER. [_Suddenly claps his hand behind him and speaks joyfully._] No, +we needn't go after all; I forgot my hip pocket. Here they are! + + [_Bringing them out._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. We must go all the same! [_To JINNY._] Sometimes I +think he takes too much medicine stuff! + +JINNY. I should think so! Peter, you ought to diet. + +PETER. I can't! I've tried, and I lose my appetite right away! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Good-by, dear. How long will you be in town? + +JINNY. I don't know--several weeks, I imagine. Jack came home on some +business, you know, and I don't think it's settled yet. Good-by. + + [_To PETER._ + +PETER. Good-by. You know you mustn't drink water with your meals; that's +the great thing. So I drink only champagne. + + [_He goes out Right._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Waits and speaks to JINNY with real feeling._] I'm +awfully ashamed of myself, and I hope I haven't made any trouble or fuss +with my meddling. Don't let me! + +JINNY. No, of course not. + + [_With a strained smile._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I wish I could believe you. + +JINNY. Well, _do_. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Good-by. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +JINNY. Good-by. Where's that telegram that came for him a little while +ago? [_Going to the desk at Right, and finding the telegram._] Of course +it's from her, saying that she's arrived. That's the trouble with +telegrams; the address doesn't give the handwriting away. She must have +sent it from the dock! Couldn't even wait till she was home! [_She walks +to the window and stands there a moment, then comes back, looking at her +watch._] Nearly seven already, and no sign of him, and we must dress and +dine--huh! I think I might as well tear up my theatre tickets! [_She +paces up and down the room, stopping now and then with each new thought +that comes to her._] I wonder if he went down there to meet her--he must +have known the boat; if he cabled her to come back, she must have cabled +an answer and what boat she'd take! But no other telegram has come for +Jack here to my knowledge--oh! of course, what am I thinking of, she +sent _that one_ to _his office_ to-day; she was afraid he might have +left before this one could get there, so she risked it here. Good +Heavens! why am I maudling on like this to myself out loud? It's really +nothing--Jack will _explain_ once more that he _can't_ explain, but that +Ruth has "troubles," and I'll believe him again! But I won't! He +promised me she should stay over there! [_Looks at her watch again._] +He's there, with her! _Nothing ever_ kept him half as late down town as +this! What a little fool I am! + + [_GEOFFREY enters suddenly Right._ + +JINNY. [_Cries out, joyfully._] Geoffrey! [_And rushing to him, embraces +him._] You brute, you, not to come straight back to New York when you +heard I was home! You dear old darling, you! + +GEOFFREY. I couldn't, old girl; there were reasons--I don't have to tell +you I wanted to. + +JINNY. I don't know! Was there a pretty girl up there, Geof? I'm sure I +shouldn't think her pretty if you were in love with her. I believe I +shall be awfully jealous of your wife when you get one! + +GEOFFREY. Rubbish! Hasn't Jack come back yet? + +JINNY. "Come back" from where? + +GEOFFREY. Brooklyn. + +JINNY. Brooklyn! Why, he told me--what did he go there for? + +GEOFFREY. [_Embarrassed._] I don't know if you don't-- + +JINNY. You _do_!! + +GEOFFREY. No--really--I-- + +JINNY. Oh, it's something to be concealed, then? + +GEOFFREY. Hang it, Jinny! drop the subject. I thought he said he was +going to Brooklyn; probably I was mistaken. + +JINNY. [_Satirically._] One is so apt to think just casually that every +one's going to Brooklyn! [_Looks at her watch._] Of course it's +Brooklyn. [_Goes and looks at the telegram; turns._] So you're going +back on _me_, too, are you? You're going to _protect Jack_ at _my_ +expense! + + [_AUSTIN enters Right._ + +AUSTIN. [_Absorbed._] Good evening, Jinny dear. + +JINNY. It's after seven! + +AUSTIN. [_Pleasantly._] Is it? Have you been waiting long, Geoffrey? + +GEOFFREY. No, I've only just now come in. + +JINNY. It's _I_ who have done the waiting! + +AUSTIN. I'm sorry, but it couldn't be helped. + +JINNY. You didn't tell me you were going to Brooklyn. + +AUSTIN. [_After a quick, sharp look at Geoffrey, who shakes his head +once emphatically._] It must have escaped my mind. + +JINNY. That's very likely! Going to Brooklyn's the sort of thing one +talks about and dreads for days. + +AUSTIN. Well, Jinny, that will bear postponement, and my conversation +with Geoffrey won't; will you please leave us together here for a while? + +JINNY. And what about the theatre? + +AUSTIN. What theatre? + +JINNY. Oh, you've _forgotten_ entirely my little birthday party! Thanks! + +AUSTIN. Oh, Jinny! I _did_! Forgive me! I'm awfully sorry! I've got a +lot on my mind to-day. + + [_Tries to put his arms about her and kiss her. She pushes herself + away from him, refusing to let him kiss her._ + +JINNY. Yes--I know you have-- [_At door Left._] --I'll leave you two to +your confidences. You can trust Geof; he just now refused to betray you. + + [_AUSTIN only looks at her fixedly, seriously. She looks back at him + with bravado. Then she deliberately crosses the room, gets the cable, + and recrosses with it and goes out Left._ + +AUSTIN. Poor Jinny! [_Turning to GEOFFREY._] and that, too, lies largely +on your already overcrowded shoulders. + +GEOFFREY. [_Breaking down._] I know! I know! + +AUSTIN. [_Sitting in the corner of the sofa._] Here, don't cry! You've +got to be strong now, and you've no use nor time for crying. I've had +another long interview with the Brooklyn minister. + +GEOFFREY. Yes?-- + +AUSTIN. [_Drawing a chair near to him and sitting._] Well, of course we +both know that he's doing wrong to keep silent, but he will. He wishes I +hadn't told him, because he thinks he'd never have noticed your divorce +from Maggie when it was granted--nor remembered your name if he had seen +it in the papers. + +GEOFFREY. That's what I _told_ you! + +AUSTIN. _You_ only argued that for fear I'd insist on _your_ going to +this minister yourself. But in the bottom of your heart you know it was +a risk we couldn't afford to run. I've explained everything to him--how +such a fine, sweet girl would suffer if he did expose you, and I gave +him my word you would be remarried to Ruth at once after the divorce. Of +course we both know it's wrong, but we both hope the end justifies the +means that removes difficulty number two. + +GEOFFREY. You're sure about Maggie? + +AUSTIN. She's signed a paper; she realizes you'll never live with her, +and--it's pathetic--she loves you--that girl, too--so much as to give +you your freedom--Good Lord! what is it about you weak men that wins +women so? What is it in _you_ that has made two women love _you_ to such +a self-sacrificing extent? + +GEOFFREY. [_Half tragic, half comic laugh._] I give it up! + +AUSTIN. [_Bitterly._] So do I. Well, Maggie is to have six hundred +dollars a year. + +GEOFFREY. Where'll I get it? + +AUSTIN. We'll talk about that when the time comes. [_He rises._] _Now_ +the most important, the most painful, task of all must be done and _you_ +must do it. _Not I this time--you!_ + +GEOFFREY. [_Looking up, frightened._] What? + +AUSTIN. Ruth Chester landed this morning. + +GEOFFREY. [_Starting up._] Impossible! + + [_Rising._ + +AUSTIN. The moment Maggie signed my paper I cabled Miss Chester to +return. You can't go out west and institute proceedings for divorce +without her _knowing the whole truth from you_ first! You don't want her +to find it out from the newspapers, do you? + +GEOFFREY. And you want _me_ to tell her? + +AUSTIN. _To-day._ And to-morrow you start west! + +GEOFFREY. [_Facing AUSTIN._] I _won't_ tell her! + +AUSTIN. [_Calmly._] You've got to! + +Geoffrey. I'd rather shoot myself; do you understand me--I'd rather +shoot myself! + +AUSTIN. That's nothing! That would be decidedly the _easiest_ course out +of it, _and_ the most _cowardly_. + +GEOFFREY. She'll hate me! She'll loathe me! How could she help it at +first! But just after a little, if I weren't there, the love she has for +me might move her somehow or other--and by degrees perhaps--to forgive-- + +AUSTIN. I don't deny that you will have to go through a terrible +degradation with her--but that is nothing compared with what you +deserve. If _you_ tell her, at least the humiliation is secret, locked +there between you two, and no one else in the world can ever know what +happens; _but_ if you send some one else, and no matter who,--_any one_ +else but you _is_ an outsider,--you ask her to make a spectacle of her +humiliation, to let a third in as witness to the relations and emotions +between you two! It's insulting her _again_! Don't you _see_? + + [_A pause._ + +GEOFFREY. Yes, I see! My God! I _must_ tell her myself. + +AUSTIN. That's right, don't waver, make up your mind and do it--Come! + + [_Urging him up._ + +GEOFFREY. [_Hesitates a moment._] And Jinny? + +AUSTIN. Oh, she'll come round all right; she always does. + +GEOFFREY. And she doesn't suspect? + +AUSTIN. Not the slightest. + + [_A pause._ + +GEOFFREY. Need she? + +AUSTIN. The worst? No, _never_! + +GEOFFREY. [_He rises, with new encouragement._] You'll give me your +word? + +AUSTIN. Yes. [_Shakes his hand._] I know how much she loves you; _I_ +wouldn't have her know anything. It's made us some ugly scenes, but they +soon pass, and when you are once out of your trouble for good, we'll +have no excuse, I'm sure, for any more! + +GEOFFREY. Then I shall go to bed to-night with the respect still of at +least two women who are dear to me, my mother and Jinny, even if I lose +the respect and love of the one woman who is dearer! Only think, Jack, +how I've got to stand up there--never mind about myself--and make _her +suffer tortures_! Good-by. God give me courage to do the heart-breaking +thing I must do. + +AUSTIN. I am sure the one hope you have of forgiveness is in your +manliness of going to her as you are doing and telling her yourself +_all_ the truth! + +GEOFFREY. And that, like everything else, I owe to you. + +AUSTIN. No, to _Jinny_! Good luck! + + [_He shakes GEOFFREY'S hand and GEOFFREY goes out Right._ + +AUSTIN. [_Goes to the door Left, opens it, and calls to JINNY, in the +next room._] Jinny, Geoffrey's gone,--what are you doing? + +JINNY. [_Answers in a very little staccato voice._] Waiting till you +should have the leisure to receive me! + +AUSTIN. Come along! + + [_Leaves the doorway._ + + [_JINNY enters Left and stands in the doorway._ + +JINNY. [_With affected nonchalance._] I didn't care to go downstairs for +dinner, so I have had a tray up here. Maggie brought up something for +you, too; would you like it now? + +AUSTIN. [_Ignoring purposely her mood and manner._] I shouldn't mind! I +do feel a little hungry. + + [_He sits in the arm-chair._ + +JINNY. [_Speaks off through the doorway Left._] Bring in the tray for +Mr. Austin, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. [_Off stage._] Yes'm. + + [_JINNY pulls forward a little tea table beside his chair. Her whole + manner must be one of slow, dragging carelessness, like the calm + before a storm. Her expression must be hard. She carries the telegram + still unopened, and on top of it the theatre tickets torn into + pieces._ + + [_MAGGIE brings in the tray, puts it on the table, and goes out Right. + On the tray are chops, peas, some whiskey, a syphon, a roll, etc._ + +AUSTIN. [_Sits down quickly and with a show of eagerness._] Ah! + + [_Begins to eat as if he were hungry and enjoyed it._ + + [_JINNY sits on the sofa at his Left, and looks at him,--AUSTIN is of + course conscious of JINNY'S mood, but pretends not to notice it._ + +AUSTIN. [_After a silence during which he eats._] I say I _am_ hungry! +And these chops _are_ very good, aren't they? + + [_No answer._ + +I'll tell you what it is, Jinny! Of course travelling is great sport and +all the rest of it, but after all one does get tired of hotels, and to +quote a somewhat familiar refrain, "There's no place like home." + + [_No answer._ + +Have you a headache, Jinny? + +JINNY. [_Very short._] No. + +AUSTIN. That's a good thing, and I hope you are not as disappointed as I +am about the theatre. + +JINNY. [_Half laughs._] Humph! + +AUSTIN. I'll celebrate _your_ birthday to-morrow and take _you_. + +JINNY. [_Quickly._] _Why_ did you go to Brooklyn? + +AUSTIN. On the private business of some one else. + +JINNY. [_With all her nerves tied tight._] That's the best answer you +will give me? + +AUSTIN. My dear girl, it's the only answer I _can_ give you. + +JINNY. When you are through I have something for you! + +AUSTIN. What? + +JINNY. I'll give it to you when you have finished. + +AUSTIN. I'm ready. [_He rises. JINNY rises too, and gives him the +telegram with the torn tickets on top, and then rings the bell, at +Right._] What are these torn papers? + +JINNY. Our theatre tickets! + + [_He looks at her._ + +AUSTIN. And when did this telegram come? + +JINNY. This afternoon. + +AUSTIN. Why didn't I get it when I came in? + +JINNY. [_Bitingly._] I kept it to have the _pleasure_ of giving it to +you myself; it's from Ruth Chester. + +AUSTIN. How do you know? + +JINNY. Oh, I haven't opened it! But I know! When I held it in my hand it +burnt my fingers! [_MAGGIE enters Right._] Take away the tray, please, +Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes'm. + + [_She leaves the room with the tray._ + + [_JINNY replaces the small table carelessly, almost roughly._ + + [_AUSTIN opens and reads the telegram; there is a second's pause._ + +JINNY. May I read it? + +AUSTIN. [_After a moment's hesitation._] Yes, if you wish. + + [_Not handing it to her._ + +JINNY. I _do_! + +AUSTIN. [_Reaches over and hands her the telegram; he speaks quietly._] +When you behave like this it's impossible for me to feel the same toward +you. + +JINNY. And how do you think I feel when I read this? + + [_Reads it, satirically, bitterly._ + +"Arrived safely; please let me see you before the day goes. Ruth." +"_Ruth_" if you please! + +AUSTIN. [_Standing over JINNY._] I want you to be careful to-night. I +want you to control yourself. I've been through a great deal to-day, and +if you make me angry God knows what I mightn't say and _do_! + +JINNY. And _I've_ been through a great deal _for many a day now_, and I +want the truth about this at last! It's all very well for you to spare +her by not telling me what this _mysterious_ trouble is about which +you've been hoodwinking me ever since we were married, but _now_ you've +got to choose between sparing _her_ and sparing _me_! + + [_She sits determinedly._ + +AUSTIN. Is this your answer to me when I beg you to be very careful +to-night to control yourself? + +JINNY. It's your turn to be careful! What did you marry me for if you +were in love with Ruth? + +AUSTIN. _Jinny!_ + +JINNY. [_A little frightened, to excuse herself._] You gave me your word +of honor she would stay abroad indefinitely. + +AUSTIN. Nonsense! I said I understood she was going to stay some +time--indefinitely. + +JINNY. It's the same thing, and here she is back practically the moment +we are! + +AUSTIN. I can't control Miss Chester's movements--I couldn't foresee +when she would come back. In Rome she told me she would stay on. + +JINNY. [_Rising and facing him._] Ah! that's what I wanted to see, if +you really _would lie_ to me! + +AUSTIN. What do you mean? + +JINNY. [_Beside herself._] Liar! [_He only looks at her, with his face +hard and set; she is insane with jealousy for the moment._] _You sent_ +for Ruth to come back. + +AUSTIN. _And_ if _I did_? + +JINNY. You tried to deceive me about it. And if you'll tell me a lie +about one thing, you'll tell me a lie about another, and I don't believe +one word of all your explanations about the intrigue between you and +Ruth Chester! + +AUSTIN. [_Taking her two hands._] Sit down! + + [_She sits in the arm-chair, half forced by him._ + +JINNY. _Why_ did you send for Ruth Chester to come back? + +AUSTIN. I have told you before, I am trying to help Miss Chester. + +JINNY. "_Ruth!_" + +AUSTIN. I am trying to help her in a great and serious trouble. + +JINNY. Why did you send for her to come back? What's the trouble? + +AUSTIN. I've told you before I can't tell you. + +JINNY. You daren't tell me, and you haven't even the face to tell +another lie about it! + +AUSTIN. If you say another word, I shall _hate_ you! If you _won't_ +control _yourself_, I must make you, as well as keep my own sane +balance. You have insulted my love for you to-night as you've never done +before; you've struck at my own ideal of _you_; you've almost done, in a +word, what I warned you you might do--_kill_ the love I have for you! + +JINNY. [_Frightened._] Jack! + +AUSTIN. I mean what I say! + +JINNY. [_In tears._] That--that you--you don't love me? + +AUSTIN. That is not what I said, but I tell you now that since I first +began to care for you, never have I loved you so little as I do +to-night. + +JINNY. [_With an effort at angry justification._] And suppose I tell you +it is your own fault, because you haven't treated me-- + +AUSTIN. [_Interrupting her._] Like a _child_, instead of a _woman_! + +JINNY. No, because you've kept part of yourself from me, and that part +you've given-- + +AUSTIN. For God's sake, stop! [_A pause--JINNY is now thoroughly +frightened; slowly she comes to her senses._] Do you _want_ a rupture +for good between us? [_No answer._] Can't you see what I tell you is +true? That I can't bear any more to-night? That if you keep on you will +rob _me_ of every bit of love I have for you, just as you've already +robbed me of the woman I thought you were? + +JINNY. "Already!" No, no, Jack, don't say that. Oh, what have I done! + + [_She cries._ + +AUSTIN. You've done something very serious, and before you do +more-- [_Speaking hardly._] --I think we'd better not stay in this +evening; it would be wiser for both of us if we went out somewhere. + +JINNY. No, I couldn't go out feeling this way! I've hurt you, hurt you +terribly! Oh, why do I do it? Why can't I help myself? + +AUSTIN. I think one more scene to-night would finish things for us. I +_warn_ you of that, Jinny-- + + [_He goes to the desk and sits at it, looking blankly before him. She + comes slowly, almost timidly, behind his chair._ + +JINNY. No, don't say it! don't say it! Try to forgive me--oh, Jack, I +hate myself, and I'm so ashamed of myself! I know I've disappointed you +awfully, awfully! You _did_ idealize me; I knew it when you married me, +but I told you then I wasn't worth your loving me, didn't I? I never +pretended to be worthy of you. I always knew I wasn't. + +AUSTIN. Hush! + +JINNY. It's true! it's only too awfully true. But do you remember how +you answered me then when I told you I wasn't worth your loving me? + +AUSTIN. [_Coldly and without looking at her._] No. + +JINNY. You took me in your arms and held me so I couldn't have got away +if I'd wanted to--which I didn't--and stopped the words on my lips with +your _kisses_. [_Her throat fills. He makes no reply. She goes on very +pathetically._] _How I wish_ you'd answer me that way now! + +AUSTIN. Whose fault is it? + +JINNY. Oh, mine! _mine_! I know it. _You_ don't know it one-half so well +as I! I love you better than anything in the world, love everything of +you--the turn of your head, the blessed touch of your hand, the smallest +word that comes from your dear lips--the thoughts that your forehead +hides, but which my heart guesses when I'm sane! And yet, try as hard as +I can, these mad fits take hold of me, and although I'd willingly _die_ +to save you _pain_, still _I_, _I_ myself, hurt and wound you past all +bearing! It doesn't make any difference that _I_ suffer too! _I ought_ +to! I deserve to--you _don't_! Oh, no! I know I'm a disappointment and a +failure! + + [_Her eyes fill up with tears and her voice breaks._ + +AUSTIN. [_He turns to her._] No, Jinny, not so bad as that, only I +thought you were _big_--and you're _so little_, oh, _so small_! + +JINNY. Yes, it's true; I'm small--I'm _small_! Oh, I'd like to be big, +too! I want to be noble and strong, but I'm not--I'm as weak as +water--only it's _boiling_ water! I want to be Brunhilde, and I'm only +Frou Frou! Yes, I'm little; but I _love_ you--_I love you!_ + + [_She sinks on to a stool beside him. A moment's pause._ + + [_With a trembling voice._ + +You don't mind my sitting here? + +AUSTIN. No-- + + [_Very quietly, he places his arm about her neck, his hand on her + shoulder. She quickly steals up her hand to take his, and leaning + her head over it, kisses his hand. He draws it away and kisses her + hair._ + +JINNY. [_Timidly, very softly._] You forgive me? + +AUSTIN. [_With a long sigh._] Yes. + +JINNY. [_Bursting into tears and burying her face upon his knees._] +Thank you--thank you--I know I don't deserve it--I don't deserve it--I +don't deserve it! + +AUSTIN. [_Softly._] Sh!-- + + [_JINNY half turns and looks up at him._ + +JINNY. [_Very, very quietly._] You forgive me--but still--yes, I see it +in your face, you don't love me the same. You look so tired, dear. + +AUSTIN. [_Also very quietly._] I am, Jinny. + +JINNY. And--happy? + +AUSTIN. I'm _not_ quite happy. + +JINNY. I wish I could make you so--make you love me the old way. You +used to smile a little when you looked at me--Jack, you don't any more. +But I mean to make you to-night, if I can, and to make you love me as +much as ever you did. + +AUSTIN. Good luck, dear. + +JINNY. [_Brightening._] What time is it? + +AUSTIN. [_Looking at his watch._] Nearly nine. + +JINNY. I suppose it is too late for me to dress and for us to go to the +theatre? + +AUSTIN. Oh, yes,--and I'm too tired. + +JINNY. [_Triumphantly._] Well, then, you shall have your theatre at +home! If Mahomet won't go to the mountain, the mountain must go to your +lordship! + +AUSTIN. I don't understand! + +JINNY. Well, just wait-- [_She blows her nose._] --till I bathe my face +and eyes a little; I feel rather bleary! [_Starting to go, she stops and +turns._] Good-by? + + [_Questioningly._ + +AUSTIN. [_Quietly._] Good-by. + +JINNY. [_Who wanted him to call her to him and kiss her._] Oh, very +well! but I'll _make_ you smile yet and _kiss_ me of your own accord +to-night--you'll see! + + [_She goes out Left._ + +[_She is heard singing in her room. AUSTIN goes to the desk and after a +long sigh he begins to write._] + +AUSTIN. [_Writing._] Dear Ruth. The satisfaction of the visit to +Brooklyn prevents me from being disappointed at having missed your +telegram till too late to go to your house to-night. My heart aches for +the blow you must have this evening, but please God you will bear it +bravely. The man who loves you is not bad, but he has been weak. +However, I feel once he can shake off the burden of his present +marriage, you will never have cause to complain of him again. And if +your future happiness lies truly in his hands, it will be safe there. + +JINNY. [_Calls from her room._] Are you ready? + +AUSTIN. Yes. + + [_He stops writing._ + +JINNY. In your orchestra chair? + +AUSTIN. Yes. + +JINNY. What will you have, tragedy or comedy? + +AUSTIN. [_Smiling._] Shall we begin with tragedy? + +JINNY. All right. + +AUSTIN. [_Continues to write._] So far I have been able to keep Jinny in +absolute ignorance, but I fear the blow must fall upon her soon, and I +dread to think of what she, too, will suffer. Help me to keep it from +her as long as we can, won't you? + + [_JINNY comes back; she has changed her dress to a loose negligée + gown, with a red turban on her head; she brings two sheets with her._ + +JINNY. Excuse me one minute while I set the stage! [_Moving toward each +other the big arm-chair and the sofa, she covers them with the sheets. +AUSTIN turns from his letter on the desk, to watch._] Uncle Tom's Cabin, +Act Four! [_She goes out only for a moment, and reënters, wearing a +man's overcoat, with a pillow tied in the middle with a silk scarf, +eyes, nose, and mouth made on it with a burnt match._] Eliza crossing +the ice! Come, honey darling! [_To the pillow._] Mammy'll save you from +de wicked white man! [_Jumping up on the sofa, and moving with the +springs._] _You_ ought to do the bloodhounds for me, Jack! Excuse me, +but you look the part! [_AUSTIN watches her, not unamused, but without +smiling._] Hold tight to Lize, honey, and don't be afeerd o' dat big +black man over dah--dat's Uncle Tom. [_Crossing to the arm-chair._] +Don't be afeerd, honey; it's Lize dat's cuttin' de ice this time. [_She +throws the pillow away and drags off the two sheets._] Oh, I can see +this is too serious for you! + + [_She starts singing a cakewalk and dances across the room until she + reaches him, where she finishes._ + +AUSTIN. Very good, Jinny! I'm sure we couldn't have seen better at the +theatre. + +JINNY. Ah! You're getting yourself again!--Darling! Come!--Come!--come +to the pianola and you shall have the sextette! It's in there ready; I +heard mother struggling with it. You don't suppose she has designs upon +the Casino, do you? Now--ready? + + [_He goes to the pianola and starts to play the sextette from + "Florodora." She runs to the opposite side of the room and begins + to sing and dance, crossing to AUSTIN as he plays._ + +AUSTIN. [_After a few moments._] But I can't see you and play at the +same time; I don't like it! + +JINNY. [_Delighted._] You _want to see me_, do you? + +AUSTIN. Of course I do! + +JINNY. Jack! [_Delighted._] Well, then, turn round! + + [_JINNY, hurrying the time of the song, turns it into a regular skirt + dance. She dances delightfully and AUSTIN cannot resist her charm. + His face lightens, he smiles, and love comes into his eyes. JINNY + sees and dances and sings all the better till she reaches him._ + +AUSTIN. [_Rising, he takes her into his arms._] You adorable Jinny! + +JINNY. Ah, Jack! You're smiling again and--_you love me_! + + [_Clasping her arms about his neck._ + +AUSTIN. Yes! Is the theatre finished? + +JINNY. No, only the first act. [_He sits in the big arm-chair, JINNY on +his knee._] I'm _tired_! [_He kisses her. There is a pause. There is a +knock on the door at Right._] Oh, hang it! [_Knock repeated._] _Don't_ +answer it! We haven't half made up yet! + +AUSTIN. But we must answer it, dear. + +JINNY. [_As she rises unwillingly._] I don't see why--I should have let +her knock till she went away. + +AUSTIN. Come in! + + [_MAGGIE enters with a letter._ + +JINNY. What is it, Maggie? + +MAGGIE. A note from Miss Chester, m'm, and she's downstairs herself +waiting for an answer. + +JINNY. For _me_? + + [_Taking the letter._ + +MAGGIE. No, m'm; I think she said it was for _Mr._ Austin. + +JINNY. _Oh!_--You may wait outside for the answer, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes, m'm. + + [_She goes out._ + +JINNY. [_Slowly goes to AUSTIN and gives him the letter, lightly._] I +see now why you were so anxious to let Maggie in. Perhaps you were +expecting this. + +AUSTIN. Jinny! [_Holding her by the hand and trying to pull her over to +him._] Come, I'll give you a kiss for the letter. + +JINNY. No, thank you, I don't want kisses that are given by you for +letters from Ruth Chester. Yes! do kiss me! [_He kisses her._] I _won't_ +be jealous! _I won't be!_ [_Clinching her teeth._] See, I'm not jealous +a bit! Read your old letter! + + [_AUSTIN opens the note and reads it. As he does so JINNY has passed + on to the desk and sees AUSTIN'S unfinished letter to RUTH, which + after a little hesitation she picks up and reads. AUSTIN, having read + RUTH'S note, looks up thoughtfully a second, and then re-reads it. + JINNY is furious over what she reads. As she finishes she gives a + little cry from the very depths of her heart._ + +JINNY. Oh, _Jack_! + +AUSTIN. What is it? + +JINNY. Nothing! + + [_She sinks by the desk, crushing the letter in her hand. She looks + over at him, and then down at the letter, and then back at him._ + +AUSTIN. Maggie! + +JINNY. [_Rising suddenly. She speaks with a voice trembling with only +half-contained emotion and passion._] I told her to wait in the hall; +may I read it? + + [_Holding out her hand for the letter._ + +AUSTIN. Now look here, Jinny,--I always let you read everything, don't +I? + +JINNY. [_Hiding his letter behind her back._] Yes. [_Holding out her +other hand._] Give it to me! + +AUSTIN. Now begin to show that you really are going to turn over a new +leaf, and that your love is going to have perfect confidence, and don't +ask to see this letter. + +JINNY. But I _do_ ask to see it! + +AUSTIN. Then this time I must refuse you! + +JINNY. What! is it even more compromising than _your_ letter to her? + +AUSTIN. What letter? [_Looking first on the desk, he looks across at her +and sees it in her hand. He is angry, but also frightened for fear it +has told her her brother's secret._] And you've read it? + +JINNY. It lay open on the desk there, and anyway the end justifies me! + +AUSTIN. [_In an agony._] What does it tell you? I forget what I wrote! + +JINNY. It tells me that my jealousy all along has been right, that I've +been a fool to let you blind me! + +AUSTIN. [_With a great sigh of relief._] Is that all? + +JINNY. [_Beside herself._] "Is that all!" Isn't that enough? Dear God, +isn't that enough? That there's an understanding between you and Ruth to +get rid of _me_! + +AUSTIN. If it tells you that, the letter lies! Give it to me! + +JINNY. No! _I'll_ read it to you! [_Reads with bitter emphasis._] "The +satisfaction of the visit to Brooklyn prevents me from being +disappointed at having missed your telegram till too late to go to your +house to-night!" So--you and she went to Brooklyn, did you, and that's +why you came back too late to go to the theatre with me? You _cheat_! +[_She screams in her madness. A pause._] Why don't you answer--why don't +you say something? + +AUSTIN. Because if I speak as I feel, I'm afraid of saying something +I'll regret all my life! + +JINNY. You don't deny, then? + +AUSTIN. Yes! that is due to Ruth. Whatever you may feel about _me_, you +have no _right_ to _insult_ her! + +JINNY. Oh, _there's more to_ the letter! + +AUSTIN. Jinny, don't you see what you're doing? + +JINNY. Yes, I'm getting at the truth at last! [_Reads._] "My heart aches +for the blow you must have this evening! The man who loves you--" + +AUSTIN. You shan't read any more; you're mad now! + + [_Tearing the letter away from her._ + +JINNY. I don't need the letter, the words are burning in here! +[_Pressing her hands to her forehead._] "The man who loves you isn't +bad, only weak. However, I feel once we can shake off the burden of +_this present marriage_"--oh! you--you _brute_ to say that!--"you will +never have cause to complain of him again! So far I have been able to +keep Jinny in perfect ignorance, but I feel the blow must fall upon her +now--" + + [_Interrupted._ + +AUSTIN. Shall I tell you _the truth_? + +JINNY. You don't have to; I've found it out for myself! + +AUSTIN. [_In weariness, in disgust, in utter hopelessness._] No! what's +the use. You've done it now--let it go! Let it all go--the whole thing! +What's the use!--it's finished!-- [_A knock on the door at Right._] Come +in! + + [_Maggie enters and closes the door behind her._ + +MAGGIE. Please, sir, Miss Chester came upstairs and made me knock again +to see if there was an answer and if you will see her now or not. + +JINNY. [_Suddenly--aflame with her idea._] Yes! Maggie, show her in! + +AUSTIN. No, no! What do you want to do! I'll see Miss Chester to-morrow, +Maggie. + + [_JINNY has crossed to the door, Right._ + +JINNY. Ruth! Ruth! + +RUTH. [_Off stage._] Yes? May I come? + +JINNY. _Do_ come in! + + [_She recrosses room; she and AUSTIN face each other for a second._ + +AUSTIN. [_In a lowered voice._] For God's sake, be careful! + + [_RUTH enters Right._ + +RUTH. Jinny! + + [_Going to her quickly to embrace her._ + + [_JINNY, without speaking, draws away and stares at her with a look + of hatred. RUTH, seeing it, stops short, and looks from JINNY to + AUSTIN for explanation--she turns to AUSTIN and gives him her hand, + which he takes, presses, and drops; JINNY'S shoulders contract at + this moment; RUTH immediately turns again to JINNY._ + +RUTH. What is it, Jinny? [_To AUSTIN._] Surely she doesn't blame _me_ in +any way. + +JINNY. _Blame you!_ + +AUSTIN. She doesn't _know_. + +JINNY. That's a lie! I know everything, Ruth! I know why you followed my +husband to Rome, and why he sent for you to come back here. I know that +you and he were in Brooklyn this afternoon, and that you only plan to +get rid of me by some divorce, and by hook or crook to marry each other! + +RUTH. No!--No!-- + +JINNY. Oh, you can lie, too, can you? I won't keep you waiting long! +You've stolen my husband from me--take him. I won't _share_ him with any +woman! He's yours now, and I'll soon be out of your way! + +AUSTIN. _Jinny!_ + +RUTH. [_To Austin._] She must be told the truth. + + [_AUSTIN bows his head._ + +JINNY. Now you'll make up your story, will you? I tell you it's useless. +If he wouldn't let me see your compromising letter, I've seen a letter +from _him_ to _you_ to-night that gives the whole thing away. + +RUTH. [_Very quietly._] Your husband went to Brooklyn _without me_, as +your _brother_ will tell you, to see the clergyman who married me, or +_thought_ he _married_ me to _Geoffrey Tillman_ three months ago! +[_JINNY looks up with a start._] That marriage was _illegal_ because +your brother was already married, and Mr. Austin tried and did get the +promise of silence this afternoon about the Brooklyn service, to prevent +a charge of bigamy against your brother. The first marriage, which still +holds good, was with--Maggie, your present servant-- + + [_JINNY stands immovable. There is a silence._ + +AUSTIN. Geoffrey is not at your house? + +RUTH. No, he left when I came on here. As I wrote you in the note I sent +upstairs, I was too stunned by what he told me to answer then, and I +wanted a word of advice with you. [_She turns to JINNY._] _I_ knew what +I thought was my _marriage_ to your brother must be kept secret, but I +could not learn why. This was my trouble, which, after your marriage, I +selfishly laid on your husband's shoulders, thinking he might help me! +[_No answer from JINNY, who stands as if struck dumb and into stone._] +Mr. Austin only learned the whole truth when we met that day in Rome. +_I_ did not learn till to-day that I was not honestly your brother's +wife. I had to be told, because divorce proceedings are to be started at +once to break--the other--marriage. [_No answer from JINNY._] To spare +me, and above all to spare you the knowledge of your brother's sin, your +husband has kept Geoffrey's secret from you. You have _well_ repaid him! +[_She turns again to AUSTIN._] Good-by--I feel to-night I couldn't marry +Geoffrey again. He's tumbled so far off his pedestal he has fallen out +of my heart. But still--we'll see; I've told him to come to-morrow. +_Thank you_ from the bottom of my heart--it's full of gratitude, even if +it is broken! + + [_She goes out Right._ + + [_JINNY slowly turns, almost afraid to look at AUSTIN. He stands + stern, with set face._ + +JINNY. [_In a low voice, ashamed to go near him._] Can you forgive me? +Can you-- + +AUSTIN. Ugh! + + [_Crossing room for his coat._ + +JINNY. I'm mad! You know I don't know what I do. But I _love you_--I +love you! Forgive me! + +AUSTIN. Never! + + [_Taking up his coat._ + +JINNY. Where are you going? + +AUSTIN. Out of this house. + +JINNY. If you leave me, I'll not bear it! I'll kill myself! I warn you! + +AUSTIN. Bah!--Good-by! + + [_Going to the door Right._ + +JINNY. No! Where are you going? + +AUSTIN. Out of this house _for good_! + + [_At the door he turns and looks at her._ + +JINNY. [_Echoes._] For good? + +AUSTIN. _For good!_ + + [_He goes out, slamming the door behind him._ + + [_JINNY stands a moment motionless. She then cries faintly--"Jack!" + She goes to the door and pushes it open, crying out again in loud, + strong despair, "Jack!" There is a moment's pause. She cries out + again weakly, heartbrokenly, "Jack!"--comes back into the room, and + throwing herself down on the floor, her head resting on her arms in + the arm-chair, she sobs hysterically, wildly, "What have I done! Dear + God, what have I done!" as_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + + +ACT IV + + +Scene I + +_Dawn of the next day. At the rise of the curtain JINNY is by the open + window, whose curtains she has thrown aside. The sky is blood-red and + streaked with gold the moment before sunrise. JINNY is worn and + haggard, with hair dishevelled._ + +JINNY. [_Turning and leaning against the window._] Day at last! What a +night--what a night--but now it's morning and he hasn't come back! He +means it! And it's my own fault--it's my own fault! [_She shivers. She +closes the window and comes away. After a moment's pause she goes +deliberately and looks at the several gas fixtures in the room. She then +closes all the doors and locks them. She carefully draws down the shade +and closes in the curtains of the window. She hesitates, then pulls +aside the curtains and the shade, and takes a long, last look at the +dawn. She closes it all in again. She gets Austin's picture from the +desk and places it on the table near the centre of the room. She then +goes to the gas bracket at the Right and turns on the gas. She lights it +to see if the gas is all right; then blows it out. She then crosses to +the other bracket and turns that on; she goes to the chandelier at +centre, and, mounting a chair, turns on its three jets. She then sits +down by the table with AUSTIN'S picture before her, and looking into its +eyes, her elbows on the table, her head in her hands, she waits._] Oh, +Jack, my beloved! I couldn't help it--I never for one minute stopped +loving you better than everything else in my life, but no more than I +could stop loving you could I stop or help being jealous! Once the cruel +idea has got hold of me it seems to _have_ to work its way out! +Everything gets red before me and I don't seem to know what I say or do! +It's no excuse, I know. I've got no excuse, only I _love_ you! You'll +forgive me when I'm gone, won't you, Jack? You'll know I _loved_ +you!--loved you so I couldn't _live_ without you!--loved you!--_loved_ +you! [_She kisses the photograph tenderly, adoringly, slowly, in +tears._] Loved--you--loved you!--loved-- + + [_Her head drops forward, as_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + +SCENE II + +_The same morning, three hours later. The curtain rises on the same + scene in a dull, cold, early morning light. The lamp has burnt itself + out. A tiny ray of sunlight steals through a slip between the + curtains. JINNY sits by the table, her arms spread over it and her + head on her arms--she is perfectly still. AUSTIN'S picture is before + her. There is a moment's silence. Voices are heard outside, + approaching door, at Right. Gradually what they say is distinguished._ + +MAGGIE. No, sir. She hasn't been to bed; I've been to her bedroom--that +door's not unlocked. + +TILLMAN. She's been here all night? + +MAGGIE. Yes, sir. But twice in the night, sir, I came to the door and +spoke to her and she wouldn't answer me--but I could hear her walking up +and down and sometimes talking to herself. + +TILLMAN. [_Calls softly._] Jinny! [_Knocks softly._] It's father! [_No +answer._] It looks as if she were asleep now. + +AUSTIN. [_At a little distance._] Father! + +TILLMAN. I'm outside the library door. + +AUSTIN. [_Nearer._] I can't wait--have you seen her? Will she see me? + +TILLMAN. She's locked herself in here. She's not been to her own room. + +AUSTIN. Not been to bed at all! Poor Jinny--God forgive me. + +TILLMAN. Maggie says she's walked the floor all night. + + [_He knocks on the door Right._ + +AUSTIN. [_Outside the door, Right, rather softly._] Jinny! I'm so sorry! +I can't say how sorry! I've thought it out through the night, and I +think I understand things better. [_He waits a moment for an answer._] +Jinny, answer me! you shall be as jealous as you like, and I'll always +explain and kiss away those doubts of yours, and I'll have no more +secrets from you, dear. Not one! Jinny! [_As he calls there is a slight +movement of one of JINNY'S arms. With a note of alarm._] Father! I can't +hear a sound of breathing! [_A moment's pause as they listen._] She +threatened it--she threatened it several times! [_With great +determination._] We must get into this room--do you hear me--we must get +in if we have to break the door down! [_They shake the door. He calls a +little louder._] Jinny, Jinny darling--do you hear me? [_JINNY makes a +sort of feeble effort to lift her head, but fails._] Jinny, for God's +sake, answer me! I love you Jinny--_Jinny!_ [_Very slowly JINNY lifts +her head and, with difficulty, she hears as if in a dream; she is dazed, +barely alive._] She doesn't answer! + +TILLMAN. See if the key is in the lock. + +AUSTIN. No. + +TILLMAN. Get the other keys, Maggie. + +AUSTIN. _Father!_ Gas! Don't you smell it? + +TILLMAN. What! + +AUSTIN. Gas, I tell you! O God! she's killed herself! Jinny! Jinny! + + [_Beating the door._ + + [_JINNY staggers up, she tries to call "Jack"--but the word only comes + out in a half-articulate whisper! She tries again, but fails._ + +MAGGIE. Here's a key, sir. + + [_JINNY tries to go to the door; she staggers a few steps and then + falls._ + + [_They try one key--it does not unlock the door; they try another._ + + [_JINNY half raises herself and makes an effort to crawl, but is + unable and sinks back upon the floor._ + +AUSTIN. Break the door in, father! We daren't waste any more time! + +TILLMAN. No, this has done it! + + [_They open the door and rush in. They stop aghast at JINNY and the + oppressiveness of the gas in the room._ + +TILLMAN. Jinny! + +AUSTIN. Quick--the window! [_TILLMAN tears aside the curtains and throws +open the window. The sunshine of full morning pours in. He then rushes +to the opposite gas burners and turns them off. Kneeling quickly beside +her._] _Jinny! My wife!_ My beloved! + + [_He takes her up in his arms and hurries to the window._ + +TILLMAN. Are we too late? + +AUSTIN. I don't know. No! she's breathing--and see--see!--she knows +me!--she knows me! [_JINNY smiles at him pathetically._] Send Maggie for +the doctor! + + [_TILLMAN goes out Right._ + +AUSTIN. Jinny, forgive me! Forgive me! Forgive me! [_She slips her two +arms up and joins them about his neck. AUSTIN kisses her._] Father! +We've saved her! Oh, thank God, we've saved her! + + [_Bringing her to big chair and putting her in it, he kneels at her + feet._ + +JINNY. [_Whispers faintly._] _Dear Jack!_ You forgive _me_--all my +beastly jealousy? + +AUSTIN. There's one thing stronger even than jealousy, my Jinny. And +that's LOVE! That's _LOVE_! + + [_He kisses her hands, and_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + * * * * * + + +REPRESENTATIVE PLAYS + +BY WELL-KNOWN PLAYWRIGHTS + + +By MR. CLYDE FITCH + + Each 75c. net (postage 6c.) + +The Climbers + + A keen satire on contemporary New York society, which explains its + title thus:-- + + "There are social climbers, but wealth is as good a goal. I was a + climber after wealth and everything it brings." + + "And I after happiness and all it brings."--_Act II_. + +The Girl with the Green Eyes + + A study of the jealous temperament. The play is full of touches of + a remarkable intuition, and the heroine's character is portrayed + with rare delicacy. + +The Toast of the Town + + A comedy dealing with the life of an actress in the period of George + III., and with the tragedy of middle age. + +Her Own Way and +The Stubbornness of Geraldine + + are two original American plays, ingenious and novel in their + employment of pictorial devices. These plays are funds of + delightful sentiment, unhackneyed, piquant humor, and minute + observation. + + For the faithfulness of his chronicles of American life Mr. Fitch + is to be ranked with Mr. Henry Arthur Jones in the English field, + and with the best of the modern French dramatists on the Continent. + + +By HENRY ARTHUR JONES + + Each 75c. net (postage 6c.) + +The Manoeuvres of Jane + An Original Comedy in Four Acts. + + "The occasional publication of a play by Henry Arthur Jones is a + matter for congratulation.... In 'The Manoeuvres of Jane' we see + Mr. Jones in his most sprightly mood and at the height of his + ingenuity;... its plot is plausible and comic, and its dialogue + is witty." _The Transcript_ (Boston). + +Mrs. Dane's Defence + A Play in Four Acts. + + First produced in London by Sir Charles Wyndham. Margaret Anglin + and Charles Richman scored a success in it in New York and + elsewhere. + + +The Whitewashing of Julia + An Original Comedy in Three Acts and an Epilogue. + +Saints and Sinners + An Original Drama of Modern English Middle-Class Life in Five Acts. + +The Crusaders + An Original Comedy of Modern London Life. + +The Case of Rebellious Susan + A Comedy in Three Acts. + +Carnac Sahib + An Original Play in Four Acts. + +The Triumph of the Philistines + +Michael and His Lost Angel + +The Tempters + +The Liars + +The Masqueraders + + +By MR. WINSTON CHURCHILL + +The Title-Mart + + A live comedy of American life, turning on schemes of ambitious + elders, through which love and the young folks follow their own + sweet ways. + + Cloth, 16mo, 75c. net (postage 6c.) + + +By PAUL HEYSE +Freely translated by WILLIAM WINTER + +Mary of Magdala + + The English version used by Mrs. Fiske in New York and elsewhere. + + Cloth, $1.25 net + + +By MR. WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS + (Plays for an Irish Theatre) + +Where There is Nothing + +The Hour Glass and Other Plays + + Cloth, each $1.25 net (postage 7c.) + +In the Seven Woods + + Cloth, 12mo, $1.00 net (postage 6c.) + + "Mr. Yeats' work is notable as supplying that rarest of all + things--a distinctly new strain in English poetic and dramatic + literature."--Miss Katharine Lee Bates in the _Transcript_ (Boston). + + +By MR. THOMAS HARDY + +The Dynasts + A Drama of the Napoleonic Wars. In three parts. + + Part I., 12mo, cloth, $1.50 net + + +By MR. STEPHEN PHILLIPS + + Cloth, each $1.25 net (postage 8c.) + +The Sin of David + + The theme is indicated by the title, but the time of the play is + that of Cromwell, and runs its course during the English civil war. + +Ulysses + + A dramatic success in both London and New York, first presented in + a marvellous stage-setting by Beerbohm Tree, and pronounced "the + most strikingly imaginative production the present generation has + witnessed." + + +By MR. PERCY W. MACKAYE + + Cloth, each $1.25 net (postage 7c.) + +Fenris the Wolf A Tragedy. + +The Canterbury Pilgrims + + "A rollicking little farce-comedy, with lyrics interspersed."-- + _Churchman._ + + +By MR. LAURENCE HOUSMAN + +Bethlehem + + A Nativity Play. Performed with Music by Joseph Moorat, under the + Stage Direction of Edward Gordon Craig, December, MCMII. + + Cloth, 12mo, $1.25 net (postage 7c.) + + +THE MACMILLAN COMPANY + +64-66 Fifth Avenue, New York + + + * * * * * + + + [Transcriber's Note: + + The following text was printed at the beginning of the original book, + immediately after the copyright notice. It is included here for + historical interest only.] + + All acting rights, both professional and amateur, are reserved by + Clyde Fitch. Performances forbidden and right of representation + reserved. Application for the right of performing this piece must + be made to The Macmillan Company. Any piracy or infringement will + be prosecuted in accordance with the penalties provided by the United + States Statutes:-- + + "SEC. 4966.--Any person publicly performing or representing any + dramatic or musical composition, for which copyright has been + obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of the said dramatic + or musical composition, or his heirs or assigns, shall be liable for + damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such + sum, not less than one hundred dollars for the first and fifty + dollars for every subsequent performance, as to the Court shall + appear to be just. If the unlawful performance and representation + be wilful and for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty of + a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period not + exceeding one year."--U.S. REVISED STATUTES, Title 60, Chap. 3. + + + * * * * * + * * * * + * * * * * + + +Errata Noted by Transcriber: + +All French and German words ("Wunderbaum!") are as in the original. + +On floral small / table + _so in original: "a floral..."?_ +AUSTIN. Geof? most certainly I do, and Jinny adores him. + _text reads "Geoff"_ +[_AUSTIN enters Left, followed by RUTH._ + _text reads "followed by Ruth" (in plain type)_ +TILLMAN. Um!-- [_Thinks a second, then taking out his cigar case, he +empties it of cigars and hands them to JINNY._] Give your husband these, +please, when he comes in! + _text continues stage-direction italics through end of speech_ +the sextette from / "Florodora." + _spelling correct as printed_ +[_She recrosses room; she and AUSTIN face each other for a second._ + _so in original: "recrosses the room"?_ + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Girl with the Green Eyes, by Clyde Fitch + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES *** + +***** This file should be named 19101-8.txt or 19101-8.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/9/1/0/19101/ + +Produced by Louise Hope, David Garcia and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Kentuckiana Digital Library) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Girl with the Green Eyes + A Play in Four Acts + +Author: Clyde Fitch + +Release Date: August 22, 2006 [EBook #19101] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES *** + + + + +Produced by Louise Hope, David Garcia and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Kentuckiana Digital Library) + + + + + + +</pre> + + +<p class = "mynote"> +A few typographical errors have been corrected. They have been +marked in the text with <ins class = "correction" title = +"like this">mouse-hover popups</ins>. All French and German words +("Wunderbaum!") are as in the original. +</p> + + +<h2 class = "section">THE GIRL WITH THE<br> +GREEN EYES</h2> + +<p class = "chapter"> </p> + +<p class = "illustration"> +<img src = "images/publogo.png" width = "152" height = "45" +alt = "publisher's logo" title = "publisher's logo"> +</p> + +<p class = "chapter"> </p> + +<h2 class = "boldf">The Girl with the<br> +Green Eyes</h2> + +<h4 class = "ital">A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS</h4> + +<p class = "section"> </p> + +<h4 class = "ital">By</h4> + +<h4>CLYDE FITCH</h4> + +<p class = "illustration"> +<img src = "images/fleur.png" width = "33" height = "36" +alt = "fleur-de-lis" title = "fleur-de-lis"> +</p> + +<p class = "chapter"> </p> + +<h5>THE MACMILLAN COMPANY<br> +<i>NEW YORK MCMV</i></h5> + +<h6 class = "smallcaps">LONDON: MACMILLAN & CO., Ltd.</h6> + +<p class = "chapter"> </p> + +<h6 class = "smallcaps">Copyright, 1905,<br> +By THE MACMILLAN COMPANY.<br> +All Rights Reserved.</h6> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<h6>Set up and electrotyped. Published November, 1905.</h6> + + +<h6 class = "boldf">Norwood Press</h6> +<h6>J. S. Cushing & Co.—Berwick & Smith Co.<br> +Norwood, Mass., U.S.A.</h6> + +<hr class = "mid break"> + +<span class = "pagenum">5</span> +<h5>TO</h5> + +<h4>CLARA BLOODGOOD</h4> + +<h5>GOOD FRIEND AND IDEAL INTERPRETER<br> +OF “JINNY”</h5> + +<hr class = "mid break"> + +<span class = "pagenum">7</span> +<h4 class = "ital">THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES</h4> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<table> +<tr> +<td><a class = "contents" href = "#actI">ACT I.</a></td> +<td><span class = "smallcaps">The Tillmans’ House, New +York.</span><br> +<span class = "inset two"><i>The Wedding.</i></span> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td></td> +<td class = "padded">(Two months elapse.)</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td><a class = "contents" href = "#actII">ACT II.</a></td> +<td><span class = "smallcaps">The Vatican, Rome.</span><br> +<span class = "inset two"><i>The Honeymoon.</i></span> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td></td> +<td class = "padded">(Three weeks elapse.)</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td><a class = "contents" href = "#actIII">ACT III.</a></td> +<td><span class = "smallcaps">The Austins’ House, New +York.</span><br> +<span class = "inset two"><i>Home.</i></span> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td></td> +<td class = "padded">(The night passes.)</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td><a class = "contents" href = "#actIV">ACT IV.</a></td> +<td class = "smallcaps">The Same.</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "inset smallcaps"> +<a class = "contents" href = "#actIV_i">Scene I.</a></td> +<td class = "inset"><i>Dawn of the Next Day.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "inset smallcaps"> +<a class = "contents" href = "#actIV_ii">Scene II.</a></td> +<td class = "inset"><i>Early the Same Morning.</i></td> +</tr> +</table> + +<hr class = "mid break"> + +<span class = "pagenum">9</span> + +<h4 class = "ital">THE PERSONS MORE OR LESS<br> +CONCERNED IN THE PLAY</h4> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<table> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">“Jinny” Austin.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "group right" width = "40%"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mr. Tillman</span><br> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span> +</td> +<td class = "label" colspan = "2"> +<i>Her Parents.</i> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey Tillman.</span> <i>Her +Brother.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> <i>Her Cousin.</i> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "group right" colspan = "2"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Miss Ruth Chester</span><br> +<span class = "smallcaps">Miss Grace Dane</span><br> +<span class = "smallcaps">Miss Belle Westing</span><br> +<span class = "smallcaps">Miss Gertrude Wood</span> +</td> +<td class = "label" width = "50%"> +<i>Her Bridesmaids.</i> +</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> <i>Maid at the +Tillmans’.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> <i>At the +Tillmans’.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> <i>At the +Tillmans’.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Footman.</span> <i>At the +Tillmans’.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">John Austin.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Peter Cullingham.</span> <i>Her +Son.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> <i>Her +Daughter.</i></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">A French Couple.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">A German Couple.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">A Guide.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">A Driver.</span></td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td colspan = "3"> +<span class = "smallcaps">A Group of Tourists.</span></td> +</tr> +</table> + +<hr class = "mid break"> + +<p> +<span class = "pagenum">11</span> +Originally produced under the management of Charles Frohman at the Savoy +Theatre, New York, on the 25th of December, 1902, with the following +cast:—</p> + +<table> +<tr> +<td>“Jinny” Austin</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Clara Bloodgood</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Mr. Tillman</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Charles Abbott</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Mrs. Tillman</td> +<td class = "cast">Mrs. Harriet Otis Dellenbaugh</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Geoffrey Tillman</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. John M. Albaugh, Jr.</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Susie</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Edith Taliaferro</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Miss Ruth Chester</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Lucille Flaven</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Miss Grace Dane</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Mary Blyth</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Miss Belle Westing</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Helena Otis</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Miss Gertrude Wood</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Felice Morris</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Maggie</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Lucile Watson</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Housemaid</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Angela Keir</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Butler</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Gardner Jenkins</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Footman</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Walter Dickinson</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>John Austin</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Robert Drouet</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Mrs. Cullingham</td> +<td class = "cast">Mrs. McKee Rankin</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Peter Cullingham</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Harry E. Asmus</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Mrs. Lopp</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Ellen Rowland</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>Carrie</td> +<td class = "cast">Miss Clara B. Hunter</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "label">A French Couple</td> +<td class = "cast"> +Mr. Henry De Barry<br> +Miss Louise Delmar</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "label">A German Couple</td> +<td class = "cast"> +Mr. J. R. Cooley<br> +Miss Elsa Ganett</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>A Guide</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Frank Brownlee</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td>A Driver</td> +<td class = "cast">Mr. Lou W. Carter</td> +</tr> +<tr> +<td class = "label">A Group of Tourists</td> +<td class = "cast"> +Miss Elizabeth French<br> +Miss Gertrude Bindley<br> +Miss Myrtle Lane</td> +</tr> +</table> + +<hr class = "break"> + +<span class = "pagenum">13</span> +<p class = "act"><a name = "actI" id = "actI">ACT I</a></p> + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +A charming room in the Tillmans' house. The walls are white woodwork, +framing in old tapestries of deep foliage design, with here and there a +flaming flamingo; white furniture with old, green brocade cushions. The +room is in the purest Louis XVI. The noon sunlight streams through a +window on the left. On the opposite side is a door to the hall. At back +double doors open into a corridor which leads to the ballroom. At left +centre are double doors to the front hall. A great, luxurious sofa is at +the left, with chairs sociably near it, and on the other side of the +room a table has chairs +<span class = "pagenum">14</span> +grouped about it. On <ins class = "correction" title = +"missing 'a'?">floral</ins> small table are books and objets d'art, and +everywhere there is a profusion of white roses and maidenhair fern.</p> + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +In the stage directions Left and Right mean Left and Right of actor, as +he faces audience.</p> + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +Three smart-looking <span class = "smallcaps">Servants</span> are +peering through the crack of the folding door, their backs to the +audience. The pretty, slender <span class = "smallcaps">Maid</span> is +on a chair. The elderly <span class = "smallcaps">Butler</span> +dignifiedly stands on the floor. The plump, overfed little <span class = +"smallcaps">Housemaid</span> is kneeling so as to see beneath the head +of the <span class = "smallcaps">Butler</span>.</p> + + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> [<i>Gasping.</i>] Oh, +ain't it a beautiful sight!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> [<i>Pompously.</i>] Not to +me who 'ave seen a Lord married in Hengland.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">15</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Oh, you make me sick, Mr. +Potts, always talking of your English Aristocracy! I'm sure there never +was no prettier wedding than this. Nor as pretty a bride as Miss +Jinny.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> [<i>Correcting her.</i>] +Mrs. Haustin!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> She looks for all the +world like one of them frosted angels on a Christmas card. My, I wish I +could 'a' seen her go up the aisle with the organ going for all it was +worth!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> It was a <i>beautiful</i> +sight!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> A good many 'appens to be +'aving the sense to be going now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> Could you hear Miss Jinny +say "I do," and make them other remarks?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes, <i>plain</i>, though +her voice was trembly like. But Mr. Austin he almost shouted!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Laughing nervously in excitement.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> 'E's glad to get 'er!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">16</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> <i>And her him!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> Yes, that's what I likes +about it. Did any one cry?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Mrs. Tillman. Lots of people +are going now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> What elegant clothes! Oh, +gosh!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> [<i>Superciliously.</i>] +Mrs. Cullingham don't seem in no 'urry; she's a common lot!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> I don't care, she's rich and +Miss Jinny likes her; she just throws money around to any poor person or +church or hospital that wants it, or <i>don't</i>! So she can't be so +<i>very common</i> neither, Mr. Potts!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> Say, I catch on to +something! Young Mr. Tillman's sweet on that there tall bridesmaid.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Sharply.</i>] Who?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">17</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> Miss Chester. I've seen there +was something goin' hon between them whenever she's dined or lunched +'ere.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Angry.</i>] 'Tain't +true!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> I'll bet my month's +wages.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> I don't believe you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> Why, what's it to +<i>you</i>, please?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Saving herself.</i>] +Nothing—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> Well, I guess it's truth +enough. That's the second time I've seen him squeeze her hand when no +one wasn't lookin'.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Here, change places with me! +[<i>Getting down from her chair.</i>] If you was a gentleman, Mr. Potts, +you'd have given me <i>your place</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Witheringly.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> If I was a <i>gentleman</i>, +miss, I wouldn't be here; <i>I'd</i> be on the other side of the +door.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He moves the chairs away.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">18</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>To Housemaid.</i>] Honest, +you saw something between them?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> Who?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Him and her? Mr. Geoffrey +and Miss Chester—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Housemaid.</span> <i>Cheese it!</i> they're +coming this way!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She and the <span class = +"smallcaps">Maid</span> and the <span class = "smallcaps">Butler</span> +vanish through the door Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey</span> and <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span> +enter through the double doors quickly at back. <span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey</span> is a young, good-looking man, but with a +weak face. He is of course very smartly dressed. <span class = +"smallcaps">Ruth</span> is a very serenely beautiful girl, rather noble +in type, but unconscious and unpretending in manner. They close the +doors quickly behind them.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> We'll not be interrupted +here, and +<span class = "pagenum">19</span> +I must have a few words with you before you go.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He follows her to the sofa where she +sits, and leans over it, with his arm about her shoulder.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Oh, Geof,—Geof, why +weren't we married like this?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> It couldn't be helped, +darling!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> It isn't the big wedding I +miss, oh, no, it's only it seemed sweeter in a church. Why did we have +to steal off to Brooklyn, to that poor, strange little preacher in his +stuffy back parlour, and behave as if we were doing something of which +we were ashamed?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> You love me, I love +you,—isn't that the chief thing, dearest?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> But how much longer must we +keep it secret?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Till I can straighten my +affairs +<span class = "pagenum">20</span> +out. I can't explain it all to you; there are terrible debts,—one +more than all the others,—a debt I made when I was in college.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> If I could only help you! I +have a <i>little</i> money.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> No, I love you too much; +besides, this debt isn't <i>money</i>, and I hope to get rid of it +somehow before long.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Forgive me for worrying you. +It is only that every one is so happy at this wedding except +me,—dear Jinny brimming over with joy, as I would be,—and +it's made me feel—a little—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Comes around the sofa +and sits beside her.</i>] I know, dear, and it's made me feel what a +brute I am! Oh, if you knew how I hate myself for all I've done, and for +the pain and trouble I cause you now!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">21</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span>, her sharp features set tense, appears in the +doorway on the left behind the curtains and listens.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Never mind, we won't think of +that any more.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I can never throw it off, +not for a minute! I'm a worthless fellow and how can you love +me—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Interrupting him.</i>] I +<i>do</i>! You are worth everything to me, and you will be worth much to +the world yet!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I love you, +Ruth—that's the one claim I can make to deserve you. But it's +helped me to give up <i>all</i> the beastly pleasures I used to +indulge in!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Softly.</i>] Geof!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Which I used to think the +only things worth living for, and which now, thanks to you, I +loathe,—every one of them.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">22</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> I'm so glad! I've been some help, +then.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> If I'd only got you +earlier, I'd have been a different man, Ruth!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Smiling and taking his +nervous hand in hers.</i>] Then I mightn't have fallen in love with you +if you were a <i>different</i> man!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Dear girl! Anyway, this is +the good news that I want to tell you—I hope now to have things +settled in a couple of weeks.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>In glad relief.</i>] +Geoffrey!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> But—I mayn't be +successful; it might be, Ruth—it might be, we would have to +wait—for years—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Quietly.</i>] I don't +think I could bear that! It's not easy for me to lie and deceive as I've +had to the last few months; I don't think I could keep it up.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">23</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Peter +Cullingham</span> enters suddenly, from the ballroom, a pale young man, +but, unlike <span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey</span>, hard and +virile.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Oh, here you are! I say, are +you two spoony? Just the way <i>I</i> feel! [<i>Laughing.</i>] I caught +and hugged old Mrs. Parmby just now! I think it's sort of in the air at +weddings, don't you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Rising.</i>] I'm +surprised to see you've left the refreshment table, Peter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> They sent me to find Miss +Chester—they're going to cut the bridesmaid's cake, and if you two +really are spoony, Miss Chester, you'd better not miss it—you +might get the ring!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They laugh as <span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span> takes out a bottle from which he takes a round, +black tablet which he puts in his mouth.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Also rising.</i>] I'd +better go.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">24</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> +is making frantic efforts to swallow the tablet.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Noticing him.</i>] +What's the matter with you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> O dear! I've eaten so many +ices and fancy cakes, I've got awful indigestion, and I'm trying to +swallow a charcoal tablet.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Come with me and get a glass +of water.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> No, it's very bad to drink +water with your meals; but I'll get a piece of bridesmaid's +cake—that'll push it down!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> +and <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span> go out through the double +doors.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The moment they are out of the room, +<span class = "smallcaps">Maggie</span> comes from behind the curtain +and goes straight up to <span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey</span>. He +looks astonished and frightened.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> What do you want? Have you +been listening?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">25</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> So that's it, is it? You want +to marry her when you can get rid of me.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>With relief.</i>] What +do you mean?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Oh, I may not have heard +everything, but I heard and saw enough to catch on that you're in love +with Miss Chester.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Well?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Well, you won't marry +her—I'll never set you free.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Sh!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Looking about and closing the +doors.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Oh, they're all in the +dining room.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Angry.</i>] What do +you want, anyway?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>She pleads a +little.</i>] When I came here to your house and got a position, it was +because I <i>loved</i> you, if you <i>had</i> treated me bad, and I +hoped by seeing you again, and being near +<span class = "pagenum">26</span> +you, you might come back to me and everything be made straight!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Never! Never! It's +impossible.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Angry again.</i>] Oh, is +it! Well, the dirty little money you give me now only holds my tongue +quiet so long's you behave yourself and don't run after any other girls! +But the minute you try to throw me down, I'll come out with the whole +story.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I was drunk when I married +you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> More shame to you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> You're right. But I was +only twenty—and you—led me on—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Interrupting him.</i>] +Me! led you on! <i>me</i>, as decent and nice a girl as there was in New +Haven if I do do housework, and that's my wedding ring and you put it +there, and mother's got the certificate locked up good and safe in her +<span class = "pagenum">27</span> +box with my dead baby sister's hair and the silver plate off my father's +coffin!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> We mustn't talk here any +more!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> You look out! If I wasn't so +fond of your sister Miss Jinny, and if the old people weren't so good to +me, I'd just show you right up <i>here—now</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I'll <i>buy</i> you off if +I can't divorce you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> <i>You!</i> Poof!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Girls'</span> voices are heard from the ballroom.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Look out—some one's +coming!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Going.</i>] You haven't +got a red cent; my cheque's always one of your <i>father's</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Good God! what am I going +to do—shoot myself, if I don't get out of this soon—I must +get some air!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out Left.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">28</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +opens the double doors, looks in, and then enters. She is an adorable +little human being, pretty, high-strung, temperamental, full of certain +feminine fascination that defies analysis, which is partly due to the +few faults she possesses. She is, of course, dressed in the conventional +wedding-dress, a tulle veil thrown over her face.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Not a soul! Come on!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She is followed in by the four <span +class = "smallcaps">Bridesmaids</span>—nice girls every one of +them—and also, very slyly, by <span class = +"smallcaps">Susie</span>, a very modern spoiled child, who sits +unobserved out of the way at the back.</p> + +<p>Now, my dears, I wish to say good-by all by ourselves so I can make +you a little speech! [<i>All laugh gently.</i>] In the first place I +want to tell you that there's nothing like marriage! And +<span class = "pagenum">29</span> +you must every one of you try it! Really, I was never so happy in my +life!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> Must we stand, or may we sit +down?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, stand; it won't be long +and you'll only crush your lovely frocks. In fact, I advise you not to +lose any time sitting down again until you've got the happy day +fixed!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> You know, Jinny darling, that +there is no one so glad for your happiness as your four bridesmaids +are—isn't that so, girls?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">All.</span> Yes!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>And they all together embrace <span +class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>, saying, "Dear old Jinny," "Darling +Jinny," "We'll miss you dreadfully," etc., ad lib., till they get +tearful.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Good gracious, girls, we +mustn't cry. I'll get red eyes, and Jack'll think what an awful +<span class = "pagenum">30</span> +difference just the marriage service makes in a woman.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The doors at the back open, and <span +class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> appears in the doorway.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> is a typical New Yorker in appearance, +thirty-two years old, good-looking, manly, self-poised, and somewhat +phlegmatic in temperament.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Hello! May a mere man come +in to this delectable tea party?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>No</i>, Jack! But +<i>wait</i>—by the door till I call you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Amused.</i>] Thank +you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out, closing the door.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> We'll miss you so awfully, +Jinny.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Just what I say! Get a man to +keep you company, and then you won't miss any one.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">31</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Belle.</span> Yes, but attractive men with +lots of money don't come into the Grand Central Station by every +train!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Putting her arm about +her.</i>] You want too much, my dear Belle! And you aren't watching the +Grand Central Station either half so much as you are the steamer docks +for a suitable person. Now don't be angry; you know you want a good big +title, and you've got the money to pay, but, my dear Belle, it's those +ideas of yours that have kept you single +till—twenty-six!—now <i>that</i> you must confess was nice +of me, to take off <i>three</i> years!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Belle.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Jinny, +you're horrid!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, I'm not! You know I'm +<i>really</i> fond of you, or you wouldn't be my bridesmaid to-day; it's +only that I want <i>your wedding</i> to be as happy as +<i>mine</i>—that's all, and here's a little gift +<span class = "pagenum">32</span> +for you to remember your disagreeable but loving friend by!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +[<i>Giving her a small jewelry box.</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Belle.</span> Thank you, Jinny! Thank +you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A little moved.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> Mercy! I hope you're not +going to take each one of us!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I am, and come here, +<i>you're</i> next!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> I'll swear I don't want to +get married at all!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Don't be silly, you +<i>icicle</i>! Of course you don't; you freeze all the men away, so that +you've no idea how nice and comfy they can be! My advice to you, Grace +darling,—and I <i>love</i> you, or I wouldn't bother,—is to +<i>thaw</i>! [<i>Laughs.</i>] I used to be awfully jealous of +you—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> [<i>Interrupting.</i>] +Oh!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, I was! You're lots +prettier than I am.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">33</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You <i>are</i>! But I got +over it because I soon saw you were so cold, there was no danger of any +conflagration near you! Oh, I've watched your <i>eyes</i> often to see +if any man had lighted the fires in them yet. And now I'm determined +they shall be lighted. You're too <i>cold</i>! Thaw, dear,—not to +<i>everybody</i>,—that would be like slushy weather, but don't +keep yourself so continually so far below zero that you won't have time +to strike—well—say eighty-five in <i>the shade</i>, when the +right bit of masculine sunshine <i>does</i> come along! Here—with +my best love!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Giving her a small jewelry box.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Grace</span> +kisses <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> I am the next +<i>victim</i>, I believe!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> All I've got to say to +<i>you</i>, Miss, is, that if you don't decide pretty soon on <i>one</i> +of the +<span class = "pagenum">34</span> +half dozen men you are flirting with <i>disgracefully</i> at present, +they'll every one find you out and you'll have to go in for +widowers.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> [<i>Mockingly.</i>] +Horrors!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, I don't know! I suppose a +widower is sort of <i>broken in</i> and would be more likely to put up +with your caprices! For the sake of your charm and wit and true heart +underneath it all, you dear old girl you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Giving her a small jewel box.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> Thank you, Jinny. I'm only +afraid I will do the wrong thing with you away! You know you're always +my ballast!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Nonsense! Female ballast is +no good; masculine ballast is the only kind that's safe if you want to +make life's journey in a love balloon. [<i><span class = +"smallcaps">She</span> turns to <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth +Chester</span>.</i>] Ruth—the trouble with you is, you're too sad +lately, and +<span class = "pagenum">35</span> +show such a lack of interest. I should think you might be in love, only +I haven't been able to find the man. Anyway, if you aren't in love, you +must <i>pretend</i> an interest in things. Of course, men's affairs are +awfully dull, but they don't like you to talk about them, so it's really +very easy. All you have to do is listen, stare them straight in the +eyes, think of whatever you like, and look pleased! It <i>does</i> +flatter them, and they think <i>they</i> are <i>interesting</i>, and you +<i>charming</i>! Wear this, and think of me! [<i>Giving her a box.</i>] +and be happy! I <i>want</i> you to be <i>happy</i>—and I can see +you aren't!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Kissing her.</i>] Thank +you, dear!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> There, that's +all!—except—when I come home from abroad in October, if +every one of you aren't engaged to be married, I'll wash my hands of +you—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They all laugh.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">36</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Susie</span>, sliding off her chair at back, comes +forward.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Now, it's my turn! You can't +chuck me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Trying not to laugh.</i>] +Susie! where did you come from and <i>what do</i> you mean?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Oh, you give me a +pain!—I went up the aisle with you to-day, too—what's the +matter with telling me how to get married!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I'll tell you this, your +language is dreadful; where do you get all the boy's slang? You don't +talk like a lady.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> I'm not a lady. I'm a little +girl!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You <i>talk</i> much more +like a common boy.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Well, I'd rather <i>be</i> a +<i>boy</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Susie, I shall tell Aunt +Laura her daughter needs looking after.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">37</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Oh, very well, cousin Jinny. If +you're going to make trouble, why, forget it!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Turns and goes out haughtily, +Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Going to the double +doors, calls.</i>] Now you can come in, Jack.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> enters.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> And now I've only time to +say good-by. All your guests have gone except the Cullinghams, who are +upstairs with your mother, looking at the presents.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> Come! All hands around +him!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The five <span class = +"smallcaps">Girls</span> join hands, with <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> in the centre.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Belle.</span> We don't care if every one +else has gone or not, <i>we're</i> here yet!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> So I see! But I am ordered +by my father-in-law—ahem! [<i>all laugh</i>] —to go to my +room, or he thinks there will be danger of our losing our train.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">38</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">All the Bridesmaids.</span> [<i>Ad lib.</i>] +Where are you going? Where are you going? We won't let you out till you +tell us.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I daren't—I'm afraid +of my wife!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Bravo, Jack!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> Very well, then, we'll let +you out, on <i>one</i> condition, that you kiss us all in turn.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The <span class = +"smallcaps">Girls</span> laugh.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No! No! [<i>Breaking +away.</i>] He shan't do any such thing!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They all laugh and break up the +ring.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> Dear me, isn't she +jealous!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Belle.</span> Yes, it is evidently time we +all went! Good-by, Jinny! [<i>Kissing her.</i>] A happy journey to +<i>Washington</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, it isn't!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>General good-bys. <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> begins with <span class = +"smallcaps">Ruth</span> at one end, and <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> at the other; he +<span class = "pagenum">39</span> +says good-by and shakes hands with each girl.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Gertrude.</span> [<i>Kissing <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] Good-by, and a pleasant trip to +<i>Niagara Falls</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Not a bit!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Grace.</span> [<i>Kissing <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] Good-by, I believe it's <i>Boston</i> or +<i>Chicago</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>Neither!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Good-by, dear, and all the +happiness in the world!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Kisses her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Thank you.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She turns and goes with the other +three girls to the double doors at back, where they are heard +talking.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Mr. Austin?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Joining her.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">40</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Embarrassed.</i>] You like +your new brother, <i>don't</i> you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <ins class = "correction" +title = "text reads 'Geoff'">Geof</ins>? most certainly I do, and Jinny +adores him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> I know, then, you'll be a good +friend to him if he needs one.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Surely I will.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> I think he does need one.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Really—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The <span class = +"smallcaps">Girls</span> are passing out through the doors.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Belle.</span> Come along, Ruth.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">They</span> +pass out and <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> stands in the +doorway talking to them till they are out of hearing.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Sh! please don't tell any one, +not even Jinny, what I've said! I may be betraying something I've no +right to do, and don't tell <i>him</i> I've spoken to you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> All right!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">41</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +turns around in the doorway.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Thank you—and +good-by.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Shaking his hand again.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +notices that they shake hands twice. A queer little look comes into her +face.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Good-by.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Have they gone?—Oh! +[<i>Hurrying past <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] Good-by, +dear.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out through the double +doors.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In a curious little +voice.</i>] Good-by....</p> + +[<i>She comes slowly down the room toward <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span>, and smiles at him quizzically.</i>] What were +you two saying? + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Good-by!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But you'd said it once to her +already! Why did you have to say good-by <i>twice</i> to <i>Ruth</i>? +Once was enough for all the other girls!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Banteringly.</i>] The +first time <i>I</i> said +<span class = "pagenum">42</span> +good-by to <i>her</i>, and the second time <i>she</i> said good-by to +<i>me</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Do you know what I +believe—<i>Ruth Chester's in love with you</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, darling!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Laughs.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, that explains the whole +thing. No wonder she was <i>triste</i> to-day.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Jinny, +sweetheart, don't get such an absurd notion into your head.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Looks straight at him a +moment, then speaks tenderly.</i>] No—no—I know it's not +your fault. There was no other woman in this house for you to-day but +<i>me</i>, <i>was</i> there?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> There was no other woman in +the world for me since the first week I knew you.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Taking her into his arms.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> This is good-by to <i>Jinny +Tillman</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">43</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He kisses her.</p> + +<p>Jack, darling, do you think I could sit on your knee like a little +child and put my arm around your neck and rest my head on your shoulder +for just five seconds—I'm <i>so tired</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span> opens the door.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Oh!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Shuts the door very quickly and +knocks.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +and <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> laugh.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, +yes—come in!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span> enters. She is a handsome, whole-souled, florid woman; +one of those creatures of inexhaustible vitality who make people of a +nervous temperament tired almost on contact by sheer contrast. She is +the kindest, best meaning creature in the world.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Oh, do excuse me! I +haven't any more tact!—and I hate to interrupt +<span class = "pagenum">44</span> +you, but I must say good-by. [<i>Calls.</i>] Peter!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Yes'm.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Entering with a glass of water and a +powder. He sits in the arm-chair at right, and constantly looks at his +watch.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'm much obliged to you, +Mrs. Cullingham, for the interruption, as I was sent long ago to make +myself ready for the train, if you'll excuse me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Certainly!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Good-by!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Taking his hand as he passes her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Good-by!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> If it's time for +<i>him</i>, it's certainly time for <i>you</i>. I won't keep you a +minute!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">45</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, really we've plenty of +time,— [<i>both sit on sofa.</i>] Wasn't it a lovely wedding!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I never saw a +sweeter, my dear! And it was perfectly elegant! Simply great!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> And isn't Jack—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> He is! And so are +you! In fact I've been telling your mother I don't know how to thank you +both. You've asked me to-day to meet the swellest crowd I've ever been +in where I was <i>invited</i>, and didn't have to buy tickets, and felt +I had a right to say something besides "excuse me," and "I beg your +pardon." Of course, I've sat next to them all before in restaurants and +at concerts, but this time I felt like the real thing myself, and I +shall never forget it! If you or your husband ever want any mining tips, +come to me; what my +<span class = "pagenum">46</span> +husband don't know about mines isn't worth knowing!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I'm as glad as I can be if +you've had a good time, and you mustn't feel indebted to us. Ever since +we met in Egypt that winter, mamma and I have always felt you were one +of our best friends.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Of course you know +it isn't for <i>my own</i> sake I'm doing these stunts to get into +Society. It's all for <i>my boy</i>. He's <i>got</i> to have the +best—or the <i>worst</i>, however you look at it! +[<i>Laughing.</i>] Anyway, I want him to have a chance at it, and it +belongs to him through his father, for my first husband was a real +swell!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Looking at <span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span> lovingly.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>At this moment, <span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span>, having again looked at his watch, tips up the +powder on his tongue, and swallows it down with the water.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">47</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Poor darling! He +suffers terribly from indigestion. That's an alkali powder he takes +twenty minutes after eating. Peter, we must say good-by now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> [<i>Coming up.</i>] Good-by, +Miss Jinny.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> <i>Mrs. +Austin!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, I'll always be "Miss +Jinny" to Peter!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Thank you! We've had a great +time at your wedding! <i>Bully food!</i> But I'm <i>feeling</i> it! +[<i>He turns aside.</i>] Excuse me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I was just telling +Mrs. Austin—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Interrupted.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> "Jinny"—don't +change.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Thank you— +[<i>Rises to go.</i>] I was just saying we won't forget in our social +life, will we, Peter, that Miss +<span class = "pagenum">48</span> +Jinny gave us the biggest boost up we've had yet?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +also rises.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Well, you know, mother, I +don't think the game's worth the candle. It's begun to pall on me +already.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I really think he's +going to be superior to it!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> I only go now for your +sake.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Tillman</span>, coming from Right, speaks off stage.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Jinny! Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Mother!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Tillman</span> enters.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I ought to dress?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>To <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span></i>] She'll be late if she isn't +careful.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I'm going to. Is Maggie +there?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">49</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Yes, waiting!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Good-by. [<i>Kisses <span +class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span></i>] Good-by. [<i>Shakes +<span class = "smallcaps">Peter's</span> hand.</i>]</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Many happy returns!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Come, I want to give +you some of Jinny's flowers to take home with you. Would you like +some?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I should love +them!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They go out through the doors at +back.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> +is suffering with indigestion. He takes a charcoal tablet, and <span +class = "smallcaps">Susie</span> cautiously enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> There you are! Have you got +'em?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> No, I gave them back to +you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Then they're in there on the +table—get 'em quick, the trunks are coming down now!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> +goes out quickly at back, as the +<span class = "pagenum">50</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Butler</span> and <span class = +"smallcaps">Man Servant</span> enter Right, carrying a large new trunk +with a portmanteau on top of it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Put them right over there for +a minute! [<i>They put them down in the centre of the room, and the +<span class = "smallcaps">Footman</span> goes out Right.</i>] And mind, +you don't split on us, Thomas. Auntie Tillman knows all about +it—it's just to be a nice little surprise for Cousin Jinny and my +new uncle.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> Very well, miss.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He also goes out Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>At the same time <span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span> reënters at back with a roll of papers and some +broad white satin ribbon. The papers are about half a foot broad and two +feet long, and on them is printed, "We are on our honeymoon."</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> [<i>With gay excitement.</i>] +I've got 'em.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">51</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Get some water—there's +sticky stuff on the back!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> +gives her the papers and ribbons and goes out again at back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Quick! [<i>Ties a big white +bow on the portmanteau and on a trunk handle.</i>] If Auntie Tillman +sees 'em, I'll bet she'll grab 'em off. She'll be as mad as +<i>hops</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The <span class = +"smallcaps">Butler</span> and <span class = "smallcaps">Footman</span> +reënter Right, and bring down an old steamer trunk and a gentleman's +dressing-bag.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> [<i>To the <span class = +"smallcaps">Footman</span>.</i>] Go and see if the carriage is +there!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Footman.</span> Yes, sir.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out Left.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>As <span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span> reënters from the back, with the water.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Quick now! Quick!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">52</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They stick one label on the big +steamer trunk facing the audience.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> I say isn't that great!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Susie</span> +giggles aloud with delight. The <span class = "smallcaps">Butler</span>, +standing at one side, smiles. They put another label on the other +trunk.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> [<i>Giggling.</i>] I heard +them plan it,—they're taking one old trunk purposely so as people +would not catch on they were just married!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Giggles delightedly.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The <span class = +"smallcaps">Footman</span> reënters with a driver, Left.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Footman.</span> Yes, sir, it's here.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> [<i>To the driver.</i>] You +can take that first.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Pointing to the steamer trunk.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Driver</span> goes out Left with it on his shoulder, and the +portmanteau.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> Now, James, you're to go +over with +<span class = "pagenum">53</span> +the luggage to Twenty-third Street Ferry and check the heavy baggage; +you know where to.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Footman.</span> Yes, sir.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> [<i>Eagerly.</i>] Oh, +<i>where to?</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> I am hunder hoath not to +tell, Miss.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> O pish!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Kneeling in the big arm-chair and +watching proceedings from behind its back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Butler.</span> [<i>Continues to the <span +class = "smallcaps">Footman</span>.</i>] And wait with the checks and +Mr. Austin's dressing-bag— [<i>Showing it.</i>] —until they +come.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Footman.</span> Yes, sir.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> And make haste, or, I say, +somebody'll turn up and give our whole joke away!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The <span class = +"smallcaps">Driver</span> reënters.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Yes, <i>do</i> hurry!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Footman.</span> [<i>To the <span class = +"smallcaps">Driver</span>.</i>] Come along.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">54</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They take the big trunk out Left. +<span class = "smallcaps">Butler</span> follows with the +dressing-bag.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Calls from the +room at back.</i>] Peter darling, are you there?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Phew! Just in time!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Sliding down into a more correct +position in the chair.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Yes, mother!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Going to back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>In the doorway, +at back.</i>] Come, take these beautiful roses from Mrs. Tillman!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span> and <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span> +enter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>With her arms full +of roses.</i>] Thomas will take them down.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> No, I'd like to. Aren't they +bully?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He takes them.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>To <span class += "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span>.</i>] +<span class = "pagenum">55</span> +Good-by, and thank you again. I know you must want to go up to +Jinny.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Yes, she may need me +to help her a little. Good-by. Good-by, Peter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Good-by, ma'm.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Tillman</span> goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Why, Susie, how do +you do?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> [<i>Glides out of the chair +and stands before it.</i>] How do you do?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Embarrassed.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> You're a good +little girl, I hope?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> I don't! I hate good little +girls!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> O my!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out, laughing, Left.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span>, coming to <span class = +"smallcaps">Susie</span>, catches her in his arms and kisses her, much +against her will.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> [<i>Furious.</i>] Oh, you +horrid, nasty thing, +<span class = "pagenum">56</span> +you! [<i>She strikes at him; he runs; she chases him from one side of +the room to the other, around a sofa and table, and out Left, screaming +as she chases him.</i>] I hate you! I hate you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Miss Susie, Mrs. Tillman +wants to see you upstairs.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> What for?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> I don't know, Miss.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Pshaw! have I got to go? All +right!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Going toward the door at Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> enters, meeting <span class = +"smallcaps">Susie</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Hello! Where are <i>you</i> +going?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> Oh, up to Auntie Tillman's +room. Goodness knows what for; it's an awful bore! Want to come +along?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No, thank you; but if you +see your Cousin Jinny, you might tell her I am down.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">57</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> [<i>Hanging on to him.</i>] I +say! Where are you and Cousin Jinny going to, anyway?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Smiling.</i>] I don't +know.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Susie.</span> O my, what a fib! And that's +a nice example to set a little girl!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Coming forward.</i>] I +beg pardon, sir, but may I speak to you a minute?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Certainly, Maggie, what +is it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> I've been trying for a +chance to see you alone. I wouldn't bother you, sir—but it's only +because I'm fond of Miss Jinny, and of Mr. and Mrs. Tillman, and they've +all been so good to me; I know it would nearly kill 'em if they +knew.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Come, Maggie, knew what?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Well, <i>one member</i> of +this family ain't been good to me, sir. [<i>From this point her feelings +<span class = "pagenum">58</span> +begin to get the better of her and she speaks rapidly and +hysterically.</i>] He's been bad, bad as he could, and somebody's got to +talk to him, and I don't see who's a-goin' to do it but you. If he don't +change, I'll not hold my tongue any longer. It's all I can do for their +sakes to hold it now!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Look here, what are you +talking about? You don't mean Mr. Geoffrey?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes, I do, sir; he's my +husband.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What!!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> We was married when he was +at Yale, sir; I was in a shop there.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> But—! Well, after all, +isn't this your and Geoffrey's affair? Why bring me in?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Because he's making love to +Miss Chester, and promising to marry <i>her</i> now, and if he don't +stop—I'll make trouble!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">59</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> But if he's married to you, as +you say—he can't marry—any one else.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> He's tried to make me +believe our marriage ain't legal, because he was only twenty and he'd +been drinking!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What makes you think Mr. +Geoffrey cares for—Miss Chester?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> I just heard and see him +making love to her <i>here</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> This is a pretty bad story, +Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes, sir, and the worst is, +sir, I know I ain't good enough for him, and that's why I've kept still +about it these three years, but I can't help loving him no matter how +ugly he's treated me. [<i>Breaking down into tears.</i>] I just can't +help it! I <i>love</i> him, sir, even if I'm only a servant girl, and I +can't stand it thinking he's going to try and get rid of me for some one +else!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">60</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sobs out loud.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Sh!—Maggie. Sit down a +minute, and control yourself. Somebody'll hear you, and besides they'll +be coming down presently. I'll have a talk with Mr. Geoffrey when I come +back—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Interrupted as <span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey</span> enters Left. He doesn't see <span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span>, who is collapsed in a corner of the sofa.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>To <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span>.</i>] Ah! Thank goodness I've caught you; I +had an awful headache and went out for a breath of air, and then I was +afraid I might have missed you! I knew in that case Jinny would never +forgive me, nor—I—myself—for +that—matter—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>His voice grows less exuberant in the +middle of his speech and finally at the end almost dies away, as he sees +the expression in <span class = "smallcaps">Austin's</span> face and +realizes that something is wrong +<span class = "pagenum">61</span> +somewhere. When he stops speaking, <span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> gives a gasping sob. He hears it, and +starting, sees her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Maggie!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Geoffrey, is what this girl +says true?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> That I married her in New +Haven? Yes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Rises.</i>] I'll go, +please, I'd rather go.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes, go, Maggie; it's +better.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>As soon as she is out +of the room.</i>] Promise me, Jack, you won't tell any one! It's awful, +I know! For two years at college I went all to pieces and led a rotten +life,—and one night, drunk, I married her, and it isn't so much +her fault. I suppose she thought I loved her,—but this would break +up the old lady and gentleman so, if they knew, I couldn't stand it! And +<span class = "pagenum">62</span> +Jinny, for God's sake, don't tell Jinny. <i>She respects me.</i> You +won't tell her, will you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No. But Maggie says you want +to marry some one else now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>With a change, in +great shame.</i>] That's true, too.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He sits in utter dejection on the +sofa.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> How are you going to +do it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I must make money somehow +and buy off Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes, go out to Sioux Falls, +get a divorce there on respectable grounds, and settle a sum of money on +Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> But I can't do that!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Why not?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I can't do anything that +would give publicity, and that divorce would.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Any divorce would; you can't +get rid of that.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">63</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I tell you I can't have +publicity. Ruth—Miss Chester—would hear of it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Well, if she loves you, +she'll forgive your wild oats, especially as every one sees now what a +steady, straight fellow you've become.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> It's Ruth! But I can't do +that. No, Jack, you must help—you will, won't you? Oh, <i>do</i>, +for Jinny's sake! Help me to persuade Maggie to keep silent for good, +tear up that certificate of marriage. I was only twenty; it's hardly +legal, and I'll settle a good sum—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Interrupted.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Going straight to him, +puts his hand heavily on his shoulder.</i>] Good God, you're proposing +bigamy! You've done enough; don't stoop to <i>crime</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The two <span class = +"smallcaps">Men</span> face each other a moment. <span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey's</span> head drops.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">64</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Forget you ever said that; do +what I tell you when Jinny and I have gone abroad, so she will be away +from it a little, and if you want money, let me know.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +enters Right, with nervous gaiety, covering an upheaving emotion which +is very near the surface.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Ready! And there <i>you</i> +are, Geof. I've been sending all over the house after you! Good-by! +[<i>Throwing her arms about him.</i>] Dear old Geof! Haven't we had good +times together! Always, always from the youngest days I can +remember—I don't believe there were ever a brother and sister so +sympathetic; I know there was never a brother such a perfect darling as +you were—I'll miss you, Geof! [<i>The tears come into her voice, +anyway.</i>] I used to think I'd never marry at all if I couldn't marry +<i>you</i>, and I <i>do</i> think <i>he</i> is the +<span class = "pagenum">65</span> +only man in the world who could have taken me away from home, so long as +you were there! [<i>To <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span>, +smiling.</i>] You aren't jealous?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In jest.</i>] Isn't it +awful! You can't <i>make</i> him jealous! I think it's a positive flaw +in his character! Not like—<i>us</i>, is he?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Dear old girl—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Whispers to him.</i>] And +I've noticed how you've overcome certain things, dear Geof. I know it's +been <i>hard</i>, and I'm proud of you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Sh! Jinny, dear old +sister! I'll miss <i>you</i>! By George, Jin, the house'll be awful +without—but you— [<i>His voice grows husky.</i>] —just +excuse me a minute!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He is about to break down, and so +hurries out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Sniffling.</i>] He was +going to cry! Oh, +<span class = "pagenum">66</span> +Jack, you'll be a brother to Geoffrey, won't you? You know he's been +awfully dissipated, and he's changed it all, all by himself! <i>If he +should go wrong again</i>—I believe it would break my heart, I +love him so!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'll do <i>more</i> for him, +if he ever needs me, than if he were <i>my own</i> brother, because he's +<i>yours</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Presses his hand and +looks up at him lovingly and gratefully.</i>] Thank you. Wait here just +a minute; I know he won't come back to say good-by. He's gone up to his +room, I'm sure—I'll just surprise him with a hug and my hands over +his eyes like we used to do years ago.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She starts to go out Right, and meets +<span class = "smallcaps">Mr.</span> and <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Tillman</span>, who enter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> The carriage is here!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I won't be a +second—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">67</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Where has she +gone?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Up to her brother.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Her father's been +locked up in his study for three hours—he <i>says</i> thinking, +but to <i>me</i> his eyes look very suspicious!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Taking her husband's arm +affectionately.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> [<i>Clears his throat.</i>] +Nonsense!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Well, <i>how many +cigars did you smoke</i>?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Eight.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> The amount of emotion +that a man can soak out of himself with tobacco is wonderful! He uses it +just like a sponge!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Jack, the first thing I +asked about you when I heard that—er—that things were +getting this way was, does he smoke? A man who smokes has always that +outlet. If things +<span class = "pagenum">68</span> +go wrong—go out and smoke a cigar, and when the cigar's +<i>finished</i>, ten to one everything's got right, somehow! If you lose +your temper, don't speak!—a cigar, and when it's finished, then +speak! You'll find the temper all gone up in the smoke! A woman's +happiness is safest with a man who smokes. [<i>He clears his throat, +which is filling.</i>] God bless you, Jack, it <i>is</i> a wrench; our +only girl, you know. She's been a great joy—ahem!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He quickly gets out a cigar.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>Stopping him from +smoking.</i>] No, no, dear, they're <i>going now</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Well, the best I can say +is, I wish you as happy a married life as her mother and I have had.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Thirty-five +<i>dear</i> years! But now, George, let me say a word—you always +have +<span class = "pagenum">69</span> +monopolized our new son—he'll be much fonder of you than +<i>me</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Old +lady!—Jealous!—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Turn about is fair +play—you're jealous still of Jinny and me. [<i>She pauses a +moment.</i>] I think we'd better tell him!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> All right. The only rifts +in our lute, Jack, have been little threads of jealousy that have +snapped sometimes!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Nothing ever +serious—of course, <i>but</i> it's a fault that Jinny shares with +us, and the <i>only fault</i> we've ever been able to find.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> We called her for years the +girl with the green eyes. She goes it pretty <i>strong</i> +sometimes!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, that's all right—I +shall <i>like</i> it!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> You'll always bear +with her, won't you, if she should ever get jealous of you?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">70</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Of <i>me</i>? I'll never give +<i>her the chance</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> It isn't a question of +chance; you just can't help it sometimes, can you, George?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> No, you can't.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> And so—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Don't worry! Your daughter's +safe with me. I'm not the jealous sort myself and I love Jinny so +completely, so calmly, and yet with my heart, and soul, and mind, and +body, she'll never have a <i>chance</i> even to <i>try</i> to be jealous +of <i>me</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Sh!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I found poor Maggie up in my +room crying! She says she can't bear to have me go away. I think she's +sorry now she wouldn't come with me as maid—and I said good-by to +cook and she sniffed!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">71</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> looks at his watch.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh! we ought to go!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Good-by, darling!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Kissing <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> and embracing her a long time, while <span +class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> and <span class = +"smallcaps">Tillman</span> shake hands warmly and say good-by.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Going to her father.</i>] +Good-by, father. Dear old father!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>With happy emotion.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> meanwhile is shaking hands with <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Returns to her +mother.</i>] Darling—oh, how good you've always been to me! Oh, +mummy darling, I <i>shall</i> miss you! You'll send me a letter +to-morrow, won't you, or a telegram? Send a telegram—you've got +the address!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>With tears in her +eyes.</i>] Yes, it's written down!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">72</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You can tell father, but no one +else!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Hugs and kisses her mother.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Come, Susan! They'll lose +their train!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +again embraces her father.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">All.</span> Good-by! Good-by!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>, starting to go with <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span>, suddenly leaves him and runs back again to +her mother and throws herself in her arms. They embrace, in tears.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Good-by, mother!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Good-by, my +darling!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Come, come! they'll lose +their train!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +runs to <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span>, and with his arms about +her, they hurry to the door Left. They go through the doors at back to +window in the corridor. <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> stops at +the door and she and <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> face each +other a moment.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">73</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Looking up at him.</i>] Oh, +Jack!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +[<i>She throws her arms about his neck and buries her face on his +shoulder.</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny, Jinny dear, you're +not sorry?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Slowly raises her head +and looks at him, smiling through her tears, and speaks in a voice full +of tears and little sobs.</i>] Sorry? Oh, no! Oh, no! It hurts me to +leave them, but I never was so <i>happy</i> in my life!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He kisses her and they hurry out, with +his arm about her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>In the corridor, +lifts the window.</i>] I hear the door—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> There they are!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Susie</span> +rushes across the stage with a bowl of rice in her arms and goes out +Left.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mr.</span> +and <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span> wave and say +"Good-by!" "Good-by!" "Good-by!" They close +<span class = "pagenum">74</span> +the window in silence. The sound is heard as the window frame reaches +the bottom. They turn and come slowly forward, <span class = +"smallcaps">Tillman</span> wiping his eyes and <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span> biting her lips to keep the tears back. +They come into the front room and stop, and for a second they look +around the empty room. <span class = "smallcaps">Tillman</span> puts his +hand in his pocket and takes out his cigar case. <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span>, turning, sees him; she goes to him +swiftly and touches his arm, looking up at him through her tears. He +turns to her and slowly takes her in his arms and holds her there close +and kisses her tenderly on the cheek.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Susie</span> +enters Left, with empty bowl, sobbing aloud, as</p> + +<p class = "curtain">THE CURTAIN FALLS</p> + + + + +<span class = "pagenum">75</span> +<p class = "act"><a name = "actII" id = "actII">ACT II</a></p> + +<h5>(<i>Two months later</i>)</h5> + + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +The Vatican, Rome; the Tribune of the Apollo Belvedere; a semicircular +room with dark red walls; in the centre is the large statue of Apollo. +There are doorways at Right and Left. There is a bench on the right side +of the room. A single <span class = "smallcaps">Lady Tourist</span> +enters Right, takes a hasty glance, yawns, and looking down at her +Baedeker, goes out Left. <span class = "smallcaps">A Papal Guard</span> +is seen passing outside in the court. <span class = "smallcaps">A +Frenchman</span> and his <span class = "smallcaps">Wife</span> (with +Baedekers) are seen approaching; they are heard talking volubly. They +enter Left.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Both.</span> Ah!—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They stand a moment in silent +admiration.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">76</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">He.</span> [<i>Reading from Baedeker.</i>] +Apollo Belvedere. [<i>He looks up.</i>] C'est superb!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">She.</span> [<i>Beaming with +admiration.</i>] Magnifique! Voilà un homme!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">He.</span> <i>Quelle grace!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">She.</span> <i>Quelle force!</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Both talk at once in great admiration +and intense excitement for a few moments. Then he suddenly drops into +his ordinary tone and manner.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">He.</span> Allons, allons nous!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">She.</span> [<i>In the same tone.</i>] Oui, +j'ai faim!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They go out Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +and <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> enter Left, he looking over +his shoulder. They stand a moment just inside the doorway.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> What are you looking back so +much for, Jackie?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">77</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I thought I saw some one I +know.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Who?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I didn't know who; it just +seemed to be a familiar back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Playfully.</i>] Oh, come! +I think the present works of art and your loving wife are quite enough +for you to look at without hunting around for familiar backs!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> And Baedeker! [<i>Reading +from Baedeker about the Apollo.</i>] Apollo Belvedere, found at the end +of the fifteenth century, probably in a Roman villa—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Of course, Apollo!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Great, isn't it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Stunning! [<i>She turns and +looks at him, smiling quizzically.</i>] <i>Still</i>—but I suppose +I'm prejudiced!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Obtuse.</i>] Still +what?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">78</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You dear old stupid! You know, +Jack, you're deeply and <i>fundamentally</i> clever and brilliant, but +you're not quite—<i>bright—not quick</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Laughing.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Don't you think having +<i>one</i> in the family quick as chain lightning is enough? What have I +missed this time, Jinny? You don't mean you've found a family likeness +in the statue over there? I don't want to be unappreciative, but it +doesn't suggest your father to me in the least,—nor even +Geoffrey.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>Stupid!!</i> Of course it +doesn't <i>suggest</i> anybody to me—I was only thinking I +sympathized with Mrs. Perkins of Boston,—don't you know the old +story about her?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No, what was it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>After a quick look around +to see that +<span class = "pagenum">79</span> +they are alone.</i>] Well—Mrs. Perkins from Boston was personally +conducted here once and shown this very statue, and she looked at it for +a few moments, and then turned around and said, "Yes, it's all right, +but give <i>me Perkins</i>!"</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Laughing.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Are you shocked? Come, I'm +tired; let's sit down here and read my letters—there's one from +Geof.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They sit on the bench at Right, and +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> takes out a letter from <span +class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'll read ahead in Baedeker +and you tell me if there's any news. [<i>He opens the Baedeker and +reads, and she opens and reads the letter.</i>] Where is Geof's letter +from?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> New York, of course; where +else would it be?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">80</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I had an idea he was going +away.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Geof! Where?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> West, a good way +somewhere.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But <i>why</i> would he go +West?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, he had some business, I +believe; I remember thinking it was a good idea when he told me. It was +the day we were married—I was waiting for you to come +downstairs.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I think it's very funny Geof +never said anything about it to <i>me</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> My dear, what time had +<i>you</i>? You were <i>getting married</i>!!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I <i>was</i>! Thank heaven! +I'm <i>so happy</i>, Jack!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Snuggling up to him on the bench.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Steals a little, quick +hug with his arm about her waist.</i>] Bless you, darling, I don't think +there was ever a man as happy as I am!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">81</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They start apart quickly as a <span +class = "smallcaps">German Couple</span> enter Right, with a <span class += "smallcaps">Young Daughter</span>, who is munching a cake, and +hanging, a tired and unwilling victim, to her mother's hand.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Woman.</span> Ach! schön! sehr schön!!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Man.</span> Grösses, nicht?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Woman.</span> <i>Yah!</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They stand admiring.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> By the way, when you answer +your brother's letter, I wish you'd say I seemed surprised he was still +in New York.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Reading.</i>] +Um—um—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Man.</span> [<i>Wiping his warm brow.</i>] +<i>Wunderbaum!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Woman.</span> <i>Yah!!</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They go out Left, talking.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Looking up from her +letter.</i>] Oh! what do you think?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">82</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That you're the sweetest woman +in the world.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, <i>darling</i>, I mean +<i>who</i> do you think Geoffrey says is over here and in Italy?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I haven't the most remote +idea! So far as <i>I've</i> been able to observe there has been +absolutely <i>no one</i> in Italy but <i>you and me</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> If you keep on talking like +that, I shall kiss you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What! before the tall, white +gentleman? [<i>Motioning to Apollo.</i>] I am dumb.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Very lovingly.</i>] +Silly! Well!—Mrs. Cullingham and Peter are over here and have +brought Ruth Chester!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Speaking without +thinking.</i>] Then it <i>was</i> her back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With the smallest +sharpening of the look in her eye.</i>] When?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">83</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That I saw just now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With the tiniest +suggestion of a strain in her voice.</i>] You said you didn't know whom +it reminded you of.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes, I know, I didn't +quite.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But if you thought it was +Ruth Chester, why not have said so?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No reason, dear, I simply +didn't think.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well— +[<i>Sententiously.</i>] —<i>next time—think!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What else does Geoffrey +say?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, nothing. The heat for two +days was frightful—already they miss me more than he can +say—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Interrupted.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'll bet.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Father smoked nineteen cigars +a day the first week I was gone.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">84</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>I</i> haven't <i>had</i> to +smoke <i>any</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Mercy! don't boast!—and +he thinks they will all soon go to Long Island for the summer.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Doesn't he say a word nor a +hint at his going West?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, he says he may go to +Newport for August, and that's all.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Putting away letter, and getting out +others.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Going to read all those?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> If you don't mind, while I +rest. <i>Do</i> you mind?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Of course not, but I think +while you're reading I'll just take a little turn and see if I can't +come across the Cullinghams.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Rising.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>After the merest second's +pause, and looking seriously at him.</i>] Why don't you?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">85</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'll bring them here if I find +them—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +looks up where he went off and gazes, motionless, for a few moments. +Then she throws off the mood and opens a letter.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Two tired Americans enter Right, a +girl and her mother, <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp</span> and +<span class = "smallcaps">Carrie</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> What's this, Carrie?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> [<i>Looking in her +Baedeker.</i>] I don't know; I've sort of lost my place, somehow!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Well, we must be in Room +No. 3 or 4—ain't we?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> [<i>Reads out.</i>] The big +statue at the end of Room No. 3 is Diana the Huntress.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> This must be it, +then,—Diana! Strong-looking woman, ain't she?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> Yes, very nice. You know she +was the goddess who wouldn't let the men see her bathe.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">86</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Mercy, Carrie! and did all +the other goddesses? I don't think much of their habits. I suppose this +is the same person those Italians sell on the streets at home, and call +the Bather.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +is secretly very much amused, finally she speaks.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Excuse me, but you are in one +of the cabinets—and this is the Apollo Belvedere.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Oh, thank you very much. +I guess we've got mixed up with the rooms,—seems as if there's so +many.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> [<i>Triumphantly.</i>] +There! I <i>thought</i> it was a man all the time!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Well, what with so many +of the statues only being piecemeal, as it were, and so many of the men +having kinder women's hair, +<span class = "pagenum">87</span> +I declare it seems as if I don't know the ladies from the gentlemen half +the time.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> Did the rest of us go +through here?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I beg your pardon?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> Thirty-four people with a +gassy guide? We got so tired hearing him talk that we jes' sneaked off +by ourselves, and now we're a little scared about getting home; we +belong to the Cook's Gentlemen and Ladies.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, no, the others haven't +passed through here; probably they have gone to see the pictures; you'd +better go back and keep asking the attendants the way to the pictures +till you get there.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> [<i>With rather subdued +voice.</i>] Thank you! We've come to do Europe and the Holy Land in five +weeks for $400—but I don't know, seems as if I'm getting awful +tired—after jes' sevin days.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">88</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> [<i>Affectionately.</i>] Now, +mommer, don't give up; it's because you haven't got over being seasick +yet; that's all!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Helplessly.</i>] Oh, yes, +you'll find it much less tiring in a few days, I'm sure.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Still Rome does seem a +powerful way from <i>home</i>! How'll we ask for the pictures?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> Why, mommer! "Tableaux!" +"Tableaux!" I should think you'd 'a' learned that from our church +entertainments! Good-by; thank you ever so much.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> You haven't lost <i>your +party</i>, too, have you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Smiling.</i>] I hope not! +He <i>promised</i> to come back!!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Oh! pleased to have met +you—Good-by!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They start off Left.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">89</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, not that way—back the +way you came.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Oh, thank you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She drops her black silk bag; out of +it drop crackers, an account book, a thimble, a thread-and-needle case, +a bottle of pepsin tablets, etc. They all stoop to pick the collection +up, <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> helping.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Handing.</i>] I'm sure +you'll want these!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp.</span> Yes, indeed; don't you +find them coupon meals very dissatisfactory?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Carrie.</span> Thank you ever so much +again. Come on, mommer!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Lopp</span> and <span class = "smallcaps">Carrie</span> go out Left.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +looks at her watch and goes back to her letter.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span> enters Left.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Screams.</i>] +Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">90</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Jumps up.</i>] Mrs. +Cullingham! [<i>They embrace.</i>] Did Jack find you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> No, we haven't seen +him! Ruth and Peter are dawdling along, each on their own; I like to +shoot through a gallery. There's no use spending so much time; when it's +over you've mixed everything all up just the same!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Well, I've +this minute read a letter from Geoffrey saying you were over here. And +Jack, who thought he got a glimpse of you a little while ago, went +straight off to try and find you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> What fun it is to +see you—and how <i>happy</i> you look!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I couldn't <i>look</i> as +happy as I <i>feel</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Glancing at the +statue.</i>] Who's your friend? Nice gent, isn't he?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Laughing.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">91</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Mr. Apollo! Would you like to +meet him?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Hesitates.</i>] +Er—no—I don't think! You must draw the line somewhere! He +wouldn't do a thing to Corbett, would he?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Who was Corbett?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> He was a prize +fighter, and <i>is</i>—but that's another story— Do you mean +to say you've never heard of him?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, the name sounds familiar. +But this, you know, is Apollo.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> No, I don't know; +was he a champion?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, he was a Greek god!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Oh, was he? Well, I +wouldn't have cared about being in the tailoring business in those days, +would you? Let's sit down. [<i>They sit on bench Right.</i>] Of course +you +<span class = "pagenum">92</span> +know we wouldn't accept a thing like that in Peoria, where I come from, +as a gift! No, indeed! If the King of Italy sent it over to our Mayor, +he'd return it C.O.D.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Sounds like Boston and the +Macmonnies Bacchante!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Oh, my dear, +<i>worse</i> than that! It reminds me of a man at home who kept an +underclothing store in our principal street and had a plaster cast of +this gent's brother, I should think, in his window to show a suit of +Jaegers on,—you know, a "combination"! And our Town Committee of +Thirteen for the moral improvement of Peoria made the man take it out of +his window and hang the suit up empty!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Poor man!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> You ought to see +our Park!—you know we've got a perfectly beautiful +<span class = "pagenum">93</span> +park,—and all the <i>men</i> statues wear Prince Alberts, and +stand like this— [<i>She poses with lifted arm at right angle to +body.</i>] —as if they were saying, "This way out" or "To the +monkey cage and zoo."</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] But the +women statues?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> My dear! They only +have heads and hands; all the rest's just clumps of drapery—we +only have "Americans" and "Libertys," anyway. They apply the Chinese +emigration law to all Venuses and <i>sich ladies</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They both laugh.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Where did you say Peter and +Ruth were?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Well, I left +Peter—who isn't at all well; I hoped this trip would help his +indigestion, but it seems to have made it worse!—I left +him—er—in a room with a lot of <i>broken-up +<span class = "pagenum">94</span> +Venuses</i>—I thought it was all right; he was eating candy, and +there wasn't a whole woman among 'em!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Slight strain in her +voice.</i>] How did you happen to bring over Ruth Chester?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Well, you know I +always liked her. She never snubbed me in her life—I don't think +any one you've introduced me to has been quite so nice to Peter and me +as Mrs. Chester and her daughter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> O they <i>are</i> real +people!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Ruth is terribly +depressed over something. She's thin as a rail and the family are +worried. She says there's nothing worrying her, and the doctors can't +find anything the matter with her,—so Mrs. Chester asked me if I +wouldn't take her abroad. They thought the voyage and change might do +her good, and I +<span class = "pagenum">95</span> +seem to have a more cheery influence over her than most people. So here +we are! [<i>As <span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> enters Left, +eating.</i>] Here's Peter! How do you think the darling looks?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> How do you do, Mrs. +Austin?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> How do you do, Peter? +[<i>They shake hands.</i>] I'm sorry to hear you are seedy, but you eat +too many sweet things.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> I'm not eating candy; it's +soda mints! [<i>Showing a small bottle.</i>] I <i>am</i> bad to-day, +mother.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> If you don't get +better, we'll go to Carlsbad.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> How do you like Rome, +Peter?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Oh, I don't know—too +much Boston and not enough Chicago to make it a real lively town.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] I think +I'll go look for Jack and tell him you've turned up.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">96</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Perhaps he's found +Ruth.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With a change in her +voice.</i>] Yes, perhaps.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> [<i>Going to the doorway +Right, calls after her.</i>] Ruth's in a room on your left, with rows of +men's heads on shelves, Emperors and things,—but gee, such a +<i>job lot</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Comes back and looks up at the +statue.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Isn't it beautiful, +Peter?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> No, it's <i>too big</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Still this one +isn't broken!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> That's a comfort! Yes, it has +been mended, too! [<i>Examining.</i>] Oh, yes, it's only another of +these second-hand statues. Say, you missed one whole one, the best I've +seen yet! A Venus off in a fine little room, all mosaics and painted +walls,—that's where I've been.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">97</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Why, Peter Cullingham! +<i>Alone?</i> What kind of a Venus?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Oh, beautiful! I forgot to +take my medicine!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Was +she—er—<i>dressed</i>, darling?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> We—you know—she +<i>had</i> been, but she'd sort of pushed it a good way off!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>With a +sigh.</i>] You know we <i>ought</i> to admire these things, Peter +darling; that's partly what we've come to Europe for!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> O pshaw! here comes a gang of +tourists. Come on, let's skip!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> But Ruth and Mrs. +Austin?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> We didn't agree to wait, and +we can all meet at our hotel.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A crowd of <span class = +"smallcaps">Tourists</span>, led by a <span class = +"smallcaps">Guide</span>, presses and crowds in the doorway. They drag +<span class = "pagenum">98</span> +their tired feet in a listless shuffle across the room and stand in a +somewhat sheepish and stupid bunch at the statue. One or two of the +younger women nudge each other and giggle. The <span class = +"smallcaps">Guide</span> stands a little in advance of them. The <span +class = "smallcaps">Guide</span> describes the statue, and while he is +doing so <span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> and <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham</span> go out Right. Most of the <span class += "smallcaps">Tourists</span> turn and watch them go instead of looking +at the statue.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Guide.</span> This is the Apollo Belvedere, +discovered at the end of the fifteenth century, some say in a Roman +villa or farm-house near the Grotter Terratter. Very fine specimen both +as marble and man. This statyer is calculated to make Sandow et cetery +look like thirty cents. Height seven feet, weight—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">A Man Tourist.</span> How much?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">99</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">A Girl Tourist.</span> Was he married?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Titters from the group.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Guide.</span> Give it up! Should judge he +was. The god once held a bow in his left hand and probably a laurel +wreath in his right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Another Woman Tourist.</span> A what?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Guide.</span> A laurel wreath. You want to +take a good look at this, as it is a very fine piece. Now come along, +please—make haste; we must finish up this place before +feeding!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He leads the way out Right, and the +<span class = "smallcaps">Tourists</span> follow, shuffling along, +without speaking, <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Lopp</span> and <span +class = "smallcaps">Carrie</span> lagging in the rear.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> enters Left, followed by <ins class = +"correction" title = +"text has 'Ruth' in plain type"><span class = +"smallcaps">Ruth</span></ins>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> This is where I left her +with Apollo! [<i>Calls.</i>] Jinny! She seems to have gone!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He looks behind the statue and out +door, Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Probably the Cullinghams, who +were +<span class = "pagenum">100</span> +headed in this direction, found her, and they've all gone back for us; +you see I walked all around the court first without going into the +rooms, so I missed them, but found you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What shall we do? Sit down +here and wait for them to come back, or shall I go in search?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Oh, no, you might miss them, +and then we'd all be lost! If you left Jinny here, she's sure to come +back to meet you.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sits on the bench and <span class += "smallcaps">Austin</span> stands behind her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'm sorry to learn you've +been ill.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Oh! it's nothing.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Ah, I'm afraid it's a good +deal. Will you forgive me if I say I think I know what it is!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She looks up startled.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>After a moment.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">101</span> +You haven't forgotten the day of Jinny's and my wedding, when you told +me Geoffrey Tillman needed a friend?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> I hoped <i>you'd</i> +forgotten; I oughtn't to have told you; I <i>oughtn't</i> to have!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Why not? I had a talk with +Geoffrey, then, and he told me everything.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> He did! You are sure?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Sure.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He sits beside her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> That he and I—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Love each other.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Oh, but that isn't all.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I know the rest!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> He told +you—about—about—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> The marriage?—Yes?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Oh, I'm so glad, so glad! Now +I can speak of it to some one, and some one who can advise me, and will +help us.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">102</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I have already advised him, but +he doesn't seem to be taking my advice; it has worried me.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> When I left he was awfully +depressed. He said he saw no prospect of being able to publish our +marriage for years, maybe!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>What</i> marriage?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>In astonishment.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> <i>Our</i> marriage, in +Brooklyn! [<i>She notices his expression and is alarmed.</i>] You said +he had told you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Recovering himself, and +speaking at first with hesitation.</i>] Yes, but not the details, +not—wait, I'm a little confused. [<i>Rising and walking a +moment.</i>] Let's get it all quite clear now, that's the only way I can +help you—both; I ought, of course, to have gone through it all +with him, but there really wasn't time.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">103</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> I can't go on like this much +longer. It's killing me to deceive mother; I <i>must</i> tell her +soon!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Quickly, stops +walking.</i>] No. You mustn't, not yet, if I'm going to help you; you'll +obey me, won't you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Yes, if you only will +help us!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> You said you and Geoffrey +Tillman were married where?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> In Brooklyn.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> When?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> A month before your +wedding.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>To himself.</i>] It's +impossible!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Walking up and down.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Smiling sadly.</i>] Oh, +no! I remember the date only too well.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I didn't mean that.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> I lied to my mother that day +for the +<span class = "pagenum">104</span> +first time—at any rate, since I was a child—and I've been +lying to her ever since.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Probing her.</i>] +But—but why were you married so secretly?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> We couldn't afford to marry +and set up for ourselves. He expected then to be sent off at once to the +Philippines, and—well he didn't want to leave me behind, free; I'm +afraid he's rather jealous—you must have found out by now that +Jinny is. They all are! And <i>I</i> didn't want him to go so far off +without my belonging to him either; <i>I'm</i> that jealous, too! +[<i>Smiling.</i>] So—that's why!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> And this long period of +secrecy since then—do you understand that?</p> + +<p>Ruth. Hasn't he explained to you his debts? You know before he loved +me he was very fast, but since—</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">105</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes, I know how he gave up +every one of his old habits with a great deal of courage.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> <i>Nobody</i> knows what it +cost him! How can you help us? Get him something to do to pay off his +debts? Or can't you make him feel even if we do have to go on living at +our different homes for a while, it is better to publish the fact that +we are married?—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I shall go back at once to +America if I can persuade Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> And I, too?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No. You must stay abroad +till I send word for you to come home. If I am going to help you, you +will help me by doing exactly as I say, won't you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Yes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> It's <i>very</i> important +that you should <i>absolutely obey me</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">106</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> <i>I will.</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A pause.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>, unnoticed by either of them, appears in the +doorway at Right. <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> is walking up +and down. <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span> is leaning her elbow on +the back of the bench and burying her face in her hands.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> It's awful! My God, it's +awful!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In a strained, assumed, +nonchalant tone.</i>] <i>What is?</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Jinny!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Rising.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I didn't hear you, +Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, you both seemed so +absorbed.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Going to <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] I'm so glad to see you.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Kisses her, but <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> only gives her her cheek and that rather +unwillingly; she is looking all the time at her husband.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Thank you, I've just left the +Cullinghams. +<span class = "pagenum">107</span> +They sent word to you they were going and would wait for you +outside.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Oh, then, I mustn't keep them +waiting. We'll all meet at dinner to-night, won't we? +Good-by—good-by.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>With a grateful look at <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span>, she goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Watches her go; then +turns to <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span>.</i>] That wasn't true, +what I told her—I haven't seen the Cullinghams, and I don't know +where they are, and what's more, I don't care!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What do you mean?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Beginning by degrees to +lose control of herself.</i>] What did <i>she</i> mean by <i>following +you</i> to Rome?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, don't try to deny it; +that'll only make me suspect <i>you</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">108</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> My dear girl, you don't know +what you're saying!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> She's ill, they say at home! +Yes, and they don't know what's the matter with her, do they? No! But I +can tell them! She's in love with another woman's husband!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Taking her hand.</i>] +Hush! I won't allow you to say such things!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With a disagreeable +little laugh.</i>] Oh, won't you? <i>You'd</i> better be +careful,—my eyes are opened!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes, and much too wide.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> A half-blind person would +have known there was something between you two. When I came into this +room just now, it was in the air—it was in both your faces!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sits on the bench.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> You've worked yourself up to +such a +<span class = "pagenum">109</span> +pitch you're not responsible for what you're saying!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>I</i> not +<i>responsible</i>! What was it you were saying was <i>so</i> "awful" +when I came in here? "My God, so awful!"</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He doesn't answer.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Almost hysterical, she rises.</p> + +<p>She had told you she loved you! She'd confessed she'd followed you +over here!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Absolutely false, +<i>both</i> your suppositions!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, of course you'd protect +her; you're a gentleman! But if I <i>thought</i> you <i>knew</i> she was +coming over—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny! Jinny! How <i>can</i> +you have such a thought?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, why didn't you tell me +when you thought you saw her a little while ago?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh—</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">110</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, it's very easy to say "Oh!" +[<i>Imitating him.</i>] but <i>why didn't you</i>?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I told you I didn't think +who it was; I only thought something familiar flashed across my eyes. +Jinny darling, this is sheer madness on your part, letting yourself go +like this. It has no reason, it has no excuse! Ask your own heart, and +your own mind, if in speaking to <i>me</i> as you have, you haven't done +me at least an injustice and my love for you a <i>little</i> wrong.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, I'm sure <i>she's</i> +in love with you, anyway.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No, she isn't! And it's +disgraceful of you to say so! I know she isn't—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> How do you know she +isn't?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> There's no question of it. +I'm sure of it! You mustn't think, dear, that because <i>you</i> love +me, everybody does—you idealize me!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">111</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Smiling apologetically.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, you're so modest you +don't see! but I do—on the steamer, in the hotels, everywhere we +go, always, all the women admire you awfully! I see it!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] What +utter nonsense! [<i>Taking her into his arms.</i>] You've got something +in your <i>eyes</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Only tears!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No, something +else,—something <i>green</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Laughs through her +tears.</i>] Somebody's told you my old nickname!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Laughs and is a little +embarrassed.</i>] The girl with the green eyes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Ahem!—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, I don't care if it is +appropriate, I can't help it.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">112</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Slipping from his arms.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> You must—or it will +threaten our happiness if you let yourself be carried away by jealousy +for no earthly reason outside of your dear, little imagination, like you +have this time—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Interrupted.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You honestly don't think she +cares for you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Not a bit!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But what was it you were so +serious about—what <i>is</i> between you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> She is in a little trouble, +and I happen to know about it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> How?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>After a second's +hesitation.</i>] That you mustn't ask me; it was not from her I knew +of it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Truly?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">113</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Truly.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I don't care, she hadn't any +business to go to you! I should think she'd have gone to a <i>woman</i> +instead of a <i>man</i> for sympathy. She's got Mrs. Cullingham!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> She can't go to her, poor +girl. Mrs. Cullingham knows nothing about it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Now don't you get too +sympathetic—<i>that's very dangerous</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Look out, your imagination +is peeping through the keyhole.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A moment's pause.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In a sympathetic tone, +the jealousy gone.</i>] What is her trouble, Jack?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That, dear, I can't tell you +now; some day, perhaps, if you want me to, but not now. Only I give you +my word of honor, it has nothing to do with you and me—does not +touch our +<span class = "pagenum">114</span> +life! And I want you to tell me you believe me, and <i>trust</i> me, and +won't let yourself be jealous again!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I do believe you, and I do +trust you, and I will <i>try</i> not to be jealous again!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That's right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You know that book of De +Maupassant's [<i>They move away together.</i>] I was reading in the +train the other day,—about the young girl who killed herself with +charcoal fumes when her lover deserted her?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Half laughing.</i>] This +is apropos of what, please? I have absolutely <i>no</i> sympathy with +such people.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> In America that girl would +have simply turned on the gas.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> You're getting morbid, +Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, I'm not! but if +ever—</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">115</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Interrupting—laughing +it off.</i>] I shall install <i>electric light</i> as soon as we get +home!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They both laugh.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I'm sorry I was so +disagreeable to Ruth, but I'll try to make up for it in every way I +can.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sits on the bench and he leans +over the back toward her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> There's one other thing, +Jinny, I'd like to speak of now. Would you mind giving up the Lakes and +going home this week?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Going <i>home</i>—at +once?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes—<i>Wall Street</i> +is very uncertain. I'm worried,—I don't mind telling +you,—and I want to see Geoffrey about his business.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Half in earnest.</i>] +Jack! You're not running away from <i>her</i>, are you?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">116</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny! <i>After all</i> we've +said!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No! I wasn't in earnest! I'm +ready to go. I've seen the Lakes, and whether you are in Italy or in New +York, so long as we are together, it's our honeymoon just the same.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> And may it last <i>all our +lives</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Still, I don't mind owning up +that leaving Ruth Chester behind here is rather pleasanter! [<i>She +rises quickly with a sudden thought.</i>] <i>She</i> is not going back, +too?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, no, not for a long time. +They are over here indefinitely.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I've been too horrid and +nasty for words this morning, Jack—I'm so sorry.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> It's over and forgotten +now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You <i>do</i> +forgive me?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Of course, dear; only I want +to say +<span class = "pagenum">117</span> +this one thing to you: to suspect unjustly a <i>true</i> love is to +insult that love!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I didn't really suspect +you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Of course I know you didn't; +this is only by way of a grandfatherly warning! It is possible to insult +a true love too often—and love can die—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Sh! don't, please, say any +more. You have forgiven me, haven't you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Then kiss me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Smiling.</i>] Here! My +dear, some one will see us!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, only Apollo; see, there's +no one else about—it's luncheon hour!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> But—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Taking her hand.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Pulling him.</i>] Come +along, then, behind the statue. No one will see us there!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">118</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They are behind the statue a moment +and then come around the other side.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> There! no one saw us, and I'm +so <i>happy</i>, are you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>"So happy!"</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +takes his arm and they go to the Left entrance. She stops and looks up +at him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Are my eyes <i>green</i> +now?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Now they're <i>blue</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Hurrah! and I'm going, from +now on, to be <i>so good</i>, you won't know me.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>And hugging his arm tight they go out +as—</p> + +<p class = "curtain">THE CURTAIN FALLS</p> + + +<span class = "pagenum">119</span> +<p class = "act"><a name = "actIII" id = "actIII">ACT III</a></p> + +<h5>(<i>Three weeks later</i>)</h5> + + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +The Austins' library; a warm, attractive room, with dark woodwork, and +the walls hung in crimson brocade; Dutch marqueterie furniture; blue and +white china on the mantel and tops of the book shelves; carbon +photographs of pictures by Reynolds, Ronney, and Gainsborough on the +wall. There is a double window at the back. A door at Right leads to the +hall, and another on the Left side of the room leads to <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>'s own room. <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Tillman</span> sits at a pianola Right, playing "Tell me, Pretty +Maiden"; she stops once in a while, showing that she is unaccustomed to +the instrument. <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> enters from Left, +singing as her mother plays.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">120</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Darling mother!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She puts her arms about her and kisses +her.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They come away from the pianola +together, to a big arm-chair.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> I really must get one +of those sewing-machine pianos for your father. I believe even he could +play it, and it would be lots of amusement for us.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Jack adores it; I gave it to +him for an anniversary present.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> What anniversary?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Sitting in the chair.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Day before yesterday. The +eleventh Tuesday since our marriage. Have you been in town all day? I +<i>am</i> glad to see you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sits on the arm of the chair with +her arm about her mother.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Yes, and I told your +father to +<span class = "pagenum">121</span> +meet me here and we'd take the six-thirty train from Long Island +City.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Jack and I are going to the +theatre to-night.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> I thought they were +all closed!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, no, there are several +musical comedies on,—Jack's favorite form of amusement,—and +I've bought the tickets myself for a sort of birthday party.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Is it his +birthday?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, that's only my +excuse!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Had +we dreamed you and Jack were coming home in June, your father and I +wouldn't have gone into the country so early.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> We've been home two weeks and +it hasn't been hot yet.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">122</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> And you're still ideally +happy aren't you, darling?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She rises and goes to a table near the +centre of the room and looks at the titles of several books without +realizing what they are.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Why, Jinny,—what +does that mean?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, it's all my horrid +disposition!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Been seeing green?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Um! Um! Once in Rome, and on +the steamer, and again since we've been back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Nothing serious?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Hesitatingly, she turns +and faces her mother.</i>] No—but the last time Jack was harder to +bring around than before, and he looked at me for fully five minutes +without a particle of love in his eyes, and they were +almost—<i>dead</i> eyes!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">123</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> What was it all +about?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Ruth Chester, +principally.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Why Ruth?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, the first real scene I +made was in Rome in the Vatican. I was jealous of her; I can't explain +it all to you—as a matter of fact, it hasn't been all explained to +<i>me</i>! Something was troubling Ruth that Jack knew, and he said he'd +help her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> What?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> That's just it; Jack won't +tell me. And the day we sailed from Naples a telegram came, and of +course I opened it, and it said, "Trust me, I will do everything you +say. Ruth."</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Why haven't you told +me anything of all this before, dear?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Going back to her +mother.</i>] I was +<span class = "pagenum">124</span> +ashamed to! Somehow, in the end I always knew I was wrong and had hurt +him—hurt him terribly, mother, the man I love better than +everything else in the world! Yes, even better than you and father and +Geoffrey—all together!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>In her mother's arms, crying a +little.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Oh, this curse of +jealousy! I was in hopes he was so strong he would help you to +overcome it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> He does try hard, I can see +sometimes; but he hasn't a spark of it in him, and he can't understand +it, and I know I'm unreasonable, and before I know it I am saying things +I don't know what, and some day he won't forgive them! I'm sure some day +he won't!—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Breaking down again.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She rises and turns away.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>Rising and putting +her arms +<span class = "pagenum">125</span> +about her.</i>] Come, dear! Now you're getting yourself all unstrung, +and that won't do you any good; you've got to fight this battle out, I'm +afraid, by yourself, trusting in the deep love of your husband to teach +him forbearance. Your father's and my troubles were never very big +because we <i>shared</i> the curse, so we knew how to sympathize with +each other!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> What an awful thing +it is!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Yes, my dear child. +Jealousy has no saving grace, and it only destroys what is always most +precious to you. Jinny, don't let it destroy <i>your best</i> +happiness!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Mother, if it <i>should</i>, +I'd kill myself!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>Shocked, but quite +disbelieving her.</i>] My dear!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Mr. Tillman is downstairs, +madam.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">126</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Tell him to +come up.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes, madam.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Don't tell father anything +before me.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> I don't know that I +shall tell him at all; he would only advise more cigars!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Tillman</span> enters Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Tillman</span> sits on the sofa at Left.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Are you here?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Going to meet him.</i>] +We are, father dear, and your presence <i>almost</i> completes us. +[<i>Kisses him.</i>] I say <i>almost</i>, because Jack hasn't come up +town yet, and Geoffrey's heartless enough to stay on fishing at Cape +Cod!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> No, he isn't; he's back +to-day.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He sits in the arm-chair at Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, I do want to see him!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Sitting near her father.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">127</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> He ought to have been in by +now—I met them this morning. He was to lunch with Jack, and he's +going to put up for a few days at the University.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> He must dine with us every +night.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Jinny!— [<i>Looking +at her.</i>] —You look as if you've been crying!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>The two <span class = +"smallcaps">Women</span> are embarrassed, and <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> doesn't reply.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> [<i>Hurt.</i>] Oh, if you +prefer to have secrets from your father, it's all right! <i>I don't +begrudge</i> your mother her <i>first place</i> in your affections!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Not at all, father; with you +and mother there's no first place. She will tell you all about it on the +way home! Please, mother.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Very well, dear.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> A little "scrap" between +you and Jack?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">128</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, but it's all over!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Um!— [<i>Thinks a +second, then taking out his cigar case, he empties it of cigars and +hands them to <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] +<ins class = "correction" title = +"text continues italics to end of passage">Give</ins> your husband +these, please, when he comes in!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +and her <span class = "smallcaps">Mother</span> exchange a smile.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But, father, Jack's got boxes +full—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Never mind; give him those, +<i>from me, with my compliments</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Very +well!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> How are you and Maggie +getting on?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Splendidly.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Such a nice girl!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> And wasn't it odd Jack was +bitterly opposed to my taking her?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> My dear, if we hadn't +lent her to you for these few weeks, you wouldn't have got anybody +decent for so short a time.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">129</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Why didn't Jack want her to +come?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I don't know, he just didn't +want her; and then last week he talked with her in the library for +three-quarters of an hour by my watch.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Why?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, it seems <i>she</i> has +troubles, too! All single young women with troubles, of no matter what +class, seem to make a bee line for my husband, even if they have to +cross the ocean!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> What do you mean?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Half laughing.</i>] Oh, +nothing, but it was about that talk with Maggie that we had our last +quarrel.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Mrs. Cullingham.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A second's dead silence, the +announcement falling like a bombshell.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Astounded.</i>] +<i>Who?</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">130</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She rises.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman and Mrs. Tillman.</span> +<i>Who?</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Mrs. Cullingham and her son, +madam.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> They're in Europe.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Are you sure you're +not mistaken, Maggie?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Oh, yes'm. Even if you +<i>could</i> mistake Mrs. Cullingham, you couldn't mistake Mr. +Peter!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Ask them to please come up, +Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes'm.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Why, they only just sailed +the other day, didn't they?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Yes, and they were +supposed to be gone all summer at least, for Ruth Chester's health! What +in the world can they have come back for?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">131</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With curious +determination.</i>] <i>That</i> is what <i>I</i> intend to find out.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> [<i>Rising.</i>] We must be +going, Susan; we've lost our train as it is.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>Rising.</i>] We +can take the seven-two.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> shows in <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span> and <span class = "smallcaps">Peter</span>. <span +class = "smallcaps">Peter</span> shakes hands with <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span>, then with <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>, and then with <span class = "smallcaps">Mr. +Tillman</span>.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span> kisses <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span> +and shakes hands with <span class = "smallcaps">Mr. Tillman</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Jinny, you angel, +aren't you surprised!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Kissing her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, rather!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Well, you aren't a +bit more surprised than I am. [<i>A clock strikes six-thirty.</i>] +<span class = "pagenum">132</span> +There goes the half hour, Peter; you must take your powder.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> I beg your pardon, mother; +it's the tablet now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Excuse me, dear, +I'm so dead tired.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Sits on the sofa.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>To Peter.</i>] Will you +have some water?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> No, thank you, I've learned +now to take them <i>au naturel</i>, and without much, if any, +inconvenience!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Takes his tablet with still a certain +amount of difficulty, and sits Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>To <span class = +"smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham</span>.</i>] Did you have a bad voyage?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> No, perfectly +beautiful!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> [<i>Reproachfully, and with a +final swallow.</i>] Oh, mother!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">133</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Except, of course, for +poor Peter; he gets worse every trip! He can eat <i>absolutely +nothing</i>—that is <i>for long</i>! But it's the Custom House +that's worn me out; I was there from twelve till four.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> But you wouldn't have +had time to buy anything!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Of course not! But +I took plenty of new dresses for the entire summer; most of them hadn't +been worn, and they were determined to make me pay duty.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> We had to pay awfully for +things! I wanted to try and smuggle, but Jack wouldn't let me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mr. Tillman.</span> I'm afraid <i>we</i> +must go!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">All</span> +rise.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> What do you think +the Inspector had the impudence to ask me finally,—if +<span class = "pagenum">134</span> +I wanted to bring the dresses in as theatrical properties!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They laugh.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> You must have some +<i>gorgeous</i> frocks!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Oh, there are some +<i>paillettes</i>! But who do you suppose he took me for—Sarah +Bernhardt!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> [<i>Looking at his +watch.</i>] I don't wish to interrupt this vital political conversation, +but, Susan, if you don't want to miss the seven-two train, +too—!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>Rising.</i>] Oh, +no, we mustn't do that. Good-by. [<i>To <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. +Cullingham</span>, shaking hands.</i>] It's nice to see you again, +anyway. Is Ruth better?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I'm sorry to +say—I don't think she is—good-by.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">135</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>To <span class = "smallcaps">Mr. +Tillman</span>, who says good-by—general good-bys.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> [<i>To <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] You want me to tell your father?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, it's better; it does +make him jealous if he thinks I tell you things and keep secrets from +him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Good-by, Peter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman.</span> Good-by, Peter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> By-by.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Mr.</span> +and <span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Tillman</span> quickly go out Right, +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> going to the door with them.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Coming back from +doorway.</i>] Now do tell me what it means. I thought you were abroad +indefinitely, or for the summer at least.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> So did I! I'm just +as surprised to be here as you <i>seem to be</i>! [<i>They +<span class = "pagenum">136</span> +sit down near each other.</i>] Didn't you really know we were +coming?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No! How should I?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I don't +know—I thought—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She hesitates, embarrassed.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>After a pause.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> What did you think?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Nothing, except +that you must know we were coming home.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Why—that <i>I</i> +must?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> You mustn't put me +into a corner like that!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> How do you mean "corner"? How +did you happen to come home like this?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Ruth suddenly got a +cable—she didn't tell me from whom—but she said she must go +home at once.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But her mother's never been +better!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">137</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Carelessly.</i>] +The cable wasn't from her mother.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, then, you know who it was +from? [<i>No answer.</i>] Oh, I see now why you thought I ought to know +about it; the cable was from <i>Jack</i>, <i>wasn't it</i>?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Relieved.</i>] +Yes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, it was!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I looked at it when +she was out of the room; of course, it was sort of by accident— +[<i>Very much embarrassed.</i>] —that is, I just happened to +see—O dear, there! You know what I mean; it was dreadful of me, +but I couldn't help it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In a strained voice.</i>] +Jack and Ruth are very good friends and he looks after some of her +affairs. You know having no man in the family complicates things.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">138</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Oh! I say!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Standing up, suddenly.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> What <i>is it</i>, +dear?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> I believe I haven't got my +before-dinner tabs.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Oh, look +carefully!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> [<i>He looks in his +right-hand pocket, takes out a bottle.</i>] Soda mints! [<i>From his +left-hand pocket a box.</i>] Alkali powders! [<i>From third pocket a +bottle.</i>] Charcoal tablets! [<i>From fourth pocket another +bottle.</i>] Dr. Man's Positive Cure! [<i>From fifth pocket a box.</i>] +Bicarbonate soda!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> There's your other +side pocket!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> That's my saccharine +[<i>Showing bottle.</i>] and my lithia tabs. [<i>Showing another +bottle.</i>] We'll have to go, mother; I've left them home!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">139</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> We must go, anyway, my +dear.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Rising.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +also rises.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> [<i>Suddenly claps his hand +behind him and speaks joyfully.</i>] No, we needn't go after all; I +forgot my hip pocket. Here they are!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Bringing them out.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> We must go all the +same! [<i>To <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] Sometimes I +think he takes too much medicine stuff!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I should think so! Peter, you +ought to diet.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> I can't! I've tried, and I +lose my appetite right away!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Good-by, dear. How +long will you be in town?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I don't know—several +weeks, I imagine. +<span class = "pagenum">140</span> +Jack came home on some business, you know, and I don't think it's +settled yet. Good-by.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>To <span class = +"smallcaps">Peter</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Peter.</span> Good-by. You know you mustn't +drink water with your meals; that's the great thing. So I drink only +champagne.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> [<i>Waits and +speaks to <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> with real feeling.</i>] +I'm awfully ashamed of myself, and I hope I haven't made any trouble or +fuss with my meddling. Don't let me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, of course not.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>With a strained smile.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> I wish I could +believe you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, <i>do</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Mrs. Cullingham.</span> Good-by.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">141</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Good-by. Where's that telegram +that came for him a little while ago? [<i>Going to the desk at Right, +and finding the telegram.</i>] Of course it's from her, saying that +she's arrived. That's the trouble with telegrams; the address doesn't +give the handwriting away. She must have sent it from the dock! Couldn't +even wait till she was home! [<i>She walks to the window and stands +there a moment, then comes back, looking at her watch.</i>] Nearly seven +already, and no sign of him, and we must dress and dine—huh! I +think I might as well tear up my theatre tickets! [<i>She paces up and +down the room, stopping now and then with each new thought that comes to +her.</i>] I wonder if he went down there to meet her—he must have +known the boat; if he cabled her to come back, she must have cabled an +answer and what boat she'd take! But no other telegram +<span class = "pagenum">142</span> +has come for Jack here to my knowledge—oh! of course, what am I +thinking of, she sent <i>that one</i> to <i>his office</i> to-day; she +was afraid he might have left before this one could get there, so she +risked it here. Good Heavens! why am I maudling on like this to myself +out loud? It's really nothing—Jack will <i>explain</i> once more +that he <i>can't</i> explain, but that Ruth has "troubles," and I'll +believe him again! But I won't! He promised me she should stay over +there! [<i>Looks at her watch again.</i>] He's there, with her! +<i>Nothing ever</i> kept him half as late down town as this! What a +little fool I am!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey</span> enters suddenly Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Cries out, joyfully.</i>] +Geoffrey! [<i>And rushing to him, embraces him.</i>] You brute, you, not +to come straight back to New York when you heard I was home! You dear +old darling, you!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">143</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> I couldn't, old girl; there +were reasons—I don't have to tell you I wanted to.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I don't know! Was there a +pretty girl up there, Geof? I'm sure I shouldn't think her pretty if you +were in love with her. I believe I shall be awfully jealous of your wife +when you get one!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Rubbish! Hasn't Jack come +back yet?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> "Come back" from where?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Brooklyn.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Brooklyn! Why, he told +me—what did he go there for?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Embarrassed.</i>] I +don't know if you don't—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You <i>do</i>!!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> +No—really—I—</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">144</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, it's something to be +concealed, then?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Hang it, Jinny! drop the +subject. I thought he said he was going to Brooklyn; probably I was +mistaken.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Satirically.</i>] One is +so apt to think just casually that every one's going to Brooklyn! +[<i>Looks at her watch.</i>] Of course it's Brooklyn. [<i>Goes and looks +at the telegram; turns.</i>] So you're going back on <i>me</i>, too, are +you? You're going to <i>protect Jack</i> at <i>my</i> expense!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Absorbed.</i>] Good +evening, Jinny dear.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It's after seven!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Pleasantly.</i>] Is it? +Have you been waiting long, Geoffrey?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> No, I've only just now +come in.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It's <i>I</i> who have done +the waiting!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">145</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'm sorry, but it couldn't be +helped.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You didn't tell me you were +going to Brooklyn.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>After a quick, sharp +look at Geoffrey, who shakes his head once emphatically.</i>] It must +have escaped my mind.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> That's very likely! Going to +Brooklyn's the sort of thing one talks about and dreads for days.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Well, Jinny, that will bear +postponement, and my conversation with Geoffrey won't; will you please +leave us together here for a while?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> And what about the +theatre?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What theatre?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, you've <i>forgotten</i> +entirely my little birthday party! Thanks!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, Jinny! I <i>did</i>! +Forgive me! I'm awfully sorry! I've got a lot on my mind to-day.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">146</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Tries to put his arms about her and +kiss her. She pushes herself away from him, refusing to let him kiss +her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes—I know you +have— [<i>At door Left.</i>] —I'll leave you two to your +confidences. You can trust Geof; he just now refused to betray you.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> only looks at her fixedly, seriously. She +looks back at him with bravado. Then she deliberately crosses the room, +gets the cable, and recrosses with it and goes out Left.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Poor Jinny! [<i>Turning to +<span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey</span>.</i>] and that, too, lies +largely on your already overcrowded shoulders.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Breaking down.</i>] I +know! I know!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Sitting in the corner of +the sofa.</i>] +<span class = "pagenum">147</span> +Here, don't cry! You've got to be strong now, and you've no use nor time +for crying. I've had another long interview with the Brooklyn +minister.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Yes?—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Drawing a chair near to +him and sitting.</i>] Well, of course we both know that he's doing wrong +to keep silent, but he will. He wishes I hadn't told him, because he +thinks he'd never have noticed your divorce from Maggie when it was +granted—nor remembered your name if he had seen it in the +papers.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> That's what I <i>told</i> +you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>You</i> only argued that +for fear I'd insist on <i>your</i> going to this minister yourself. But +in the bottom of your heart you know it was a risk we couldn't afford to +run. I've explained everything to him—how such a fine, sweet girl +<span class = "pagenum">148</span> +would suffer if he did expose you, and I gave him my word you would be +remarried to Ruth at once after the divorce. Of course we both know it's +wrong, but we both hope the end justifies the means that removes +difficulty number two.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> You're sure about +Maggie?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> She's signed a paper; she +realizes you'll never live with her, and—it's pathetic—she +loves you—that girl, too—so much as to give you your +freedom—Good Lord! what is it about you weak men that wins women +so? What is it in <i>you</i> that has made two women love <i>you</i> to +such a self-sacrificing extent?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Half tragic, half +comic laugh.</i>] I give it up!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Bitterly.</i>] So do I. +Well, Maggie is to have six hundred dollars a year.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Where'll I get it?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">149</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> We'll talk about that when the +time comes. [<i>He rises.</i>] <i>Now</i> the most important, the most +painful, task of all must be done and <i>you</i> must do it. <i>Not I +this time—you!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Looking up, +frightened.</i>] What?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Ruth Chester landed this +morning.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Starting up.</i>] +Impossible!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Rising.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> The moment Maggie signed my +paper I cabled Miss Chester to return. You can't go out west and +institute proceedings for divorce without her <i>knowing the whole truth +from you</i> first! You don't want her to find it out from the +newspapers, do you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> And you want <i>me</i> to +tell her?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>To-day.</i> And to-morrow +you start west!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">150</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Facing <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span>.</i>] I <i>won't</i> tell her!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Calmly.</i>] You've +got to!</p> + +<p>Geoffrey. I'd rather shoot myself; do you understand me—I'd +rather shoot myself!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That's nothing! That would +be decidedly the <i>easiest</i> course out of it, <i>and</i> the most +<i>cowardly</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> She'll hate me! She'll +loathe me! How could she help it at first! But just after a little, if I +weren't there, the love she has for me might move her somehow or +other—and by degrees perhaps—to forgive—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I don't deny that you will +have to go through a terrible degradation with her—but that is +nothing compared with what you deserve. If <i>you</i> tell her, at least +the humiliation is secret, locked there between you two, and no one else +in the world can ever know what happens; <i>but</i> +<span class = "pagenum">151</span> +if you send some one else, and no matter who,—<i>any one</i> else +but you <i>is</i> an outsider,—you ask her to make a spectacle of +her humiliation, to let a third in as witness to the relations and +emotions between you two! It's insulting her <i>again</i>! Don't you +<i>see</i>?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A pause.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Yes, I see! My God! I +<i>must</i> tell her myself.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That's right, don't waver, +make up your mind and do it—Come!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Urging him up.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>Hesitates a +moment.</i>] And Jinny?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, she'll come round all +right; she always does.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> And she doesn't +suspect?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Not the slightest.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>A pause.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">152</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Need she?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> The worst? No, +<i>never</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> [<i>He rises, with new +encouragement.</i>] You'll give me your word?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes. [<i>Shakes his +hand.</i>] I know how much she loves you; <i>I</i> wouldn't have her +know anything. It's made us some ugly scenes, but they soon pass, and +when you are once out of your trouble for good, we'll have no excuse, +I'm sure, for any more!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> Then I shall go to bed +to-night with the respect still of at least two women who are dear to +me, my mother and Jinny, even if I lose the respect and love of the one +woman who is dearer! Only think, Jack, how I've got to stand up +there—never mind about myself—and make <i>her suffer +tortures</i>! Good-by. God give me courage to do the heart-breaking +thing I must do.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">153</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I am sure the one hope you have +of forgiveness is in your manliness of going to her as you are doing and +telling her yourself <i>all</i> the truth!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Geoffrey.</span> And that, like everything +else, I owe to you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No, to <i>Jinny</i>! Good +luck!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He shakes <span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey's</span> hand and <span class = +"smallcaps">Geoffrey</span> goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Goes to the door Left, +opens it, and calls to <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>, in the +next room.</i>] Jinny, Geoffrey's gone,—what are you doing?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Answers in a very little +staccato voice.</i>] Waiting till you should have the leisure to +receive me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Come along!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Leaves the doorway.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +enters Left and stands in the doorway.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">154</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With affected +nonchalance.</i>] I didn't care to go downstairs for dinner, so I have +had a tray up here. Maggie brought up something for you, too; would you +like it now?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Ignoring purposely her +mood and manner.</i>] I shouldn't mind! I do feel a little hungry.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He sits in the arm-chair.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Speaks off through the +doorway Left.</i>] Bring in the tray for Mr. Austin, Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> [<i>Off stage.</i>] +Yes'm.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +pulls forward a little tea table beside his chair. Her whole manner must +be one of slow, dragging carelessness, like the calm before a storm. Her +expression must be hard. She carries the telegram still +<span class = "pagenum">155</span> +unopened, and on top of it the theatre tickets torn into pieces.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> brings in the tray, puts it on the table, and +goes out Right. On the tray are chops, peas, some whiskey, a syphon, a +roll, etc.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Sits down quickly and +with a show of eagerness.</i>] Ah!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Begins to eat as if he were hungry and +enjoyed it.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +sits on the sofa at his Left, and looks at him,—<span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> is of course conscious of <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny's</span> mood, but pretends not to notice it.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>After a silence during +which he eats.</i>] I say I <i>am</i> hungry! And these chops <i>are</i> +very good, aren't they?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>No answer.</p> + +<p>I'll tell you what it is, Jinny! Of course travelling is great sport +and all the rest of it, but after +<span class = "pagenum">156</span> +all one does get tired of hotels, and to quote a somewhat familiar +refrain, "There's no place like home."</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>No answer.</p> + +<p>Have you a headache, Jinny?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Very short.</i>] No.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That's a good thing, and I +hope you are not as disappointed as I am about the theatre.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Half laughs.</i>] +Humph!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'll celebrate <i>your</i> +birthday to-morrow and take <i>you</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Quickly.</i>] <i>Why</i> +did you go to Brooklyn?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> On the private business of +some one else.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With all her nerves tied +tight.</i>] That's the best answer you will give me?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> My dear girl, it's the only +answer I <i>can</i> give you.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">157</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> When you are through I have +something for you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I'll give it to you when you +have finished.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'm ready. [<i>He rises. +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> rises too, and gives him the +telegram with the torn tickets on top, and then rings the bell, at +Right.</i>] What are these torn papers?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Our theatre tickets!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He looks at her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> And when did this telegram +come?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> This afternoon.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Why didn't I get it when I +came in?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Bitingly.</i>] I kept it +to have the <i>pleasure</i> of giving it to you myself; it's from Ruth +Chester.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> How do you know?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">158</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, I haven't opened it! But I +know! When I held it in my hand it burnt my fingers! [<i><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> enters Right.</i>] Take away the tray, please, +Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes'm.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She leaves the room with the tray.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +replaces the small table carelessly, almost roughly.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> opens and reads the telegram; there is a +second's pause.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> May I read it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>After a moment's +hesitation.</i>] Yes, if you wish.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Not handing it to her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I <i>do</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Reaches over and hands +her the telegram; he speaks quietly.</i>] When you behave like this it's +impossible for me to feel the same toward you.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">159</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> And how do you think I feel when +I read this?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Reads it, satirically, bitterly.</p> + +<p>"Arrived safely; please let me see you before the day goes. Ruth." +"<i>Ruth</i>" if you please!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Standing over <span +class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] I want you to be careful +to-night. I want you to control yourself. I've been through a great deal +to-day, and if you make me angry God knows what I mightn't say and +<i>do</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> And <i>I've</i> been through +a great deal <i>for many a day now</i>, and I want the truth about this +at last! It's all very well for you to spare her by not telling me what +this <i>mysterious</i> trouble is about which you've been hoodwinking me +ever since we were married, but <i>now</i> you've got to choose between +sparing <i>her</i> and sparing <i>me</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sits determinedly.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">160</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Is this your answer to me when +I beg you to be very careful to-night to control yourself?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It's your turn to be careful! +What did you marry me for if you were in love with Ruth?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>Jinny!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>A little frightened, to +excuse herself.</i>] You gave me your word of honor she would stay +abroad indefinitely.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Nonsense! I said I +understood she was going to stay some time—indefinitely.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It's the same thing, and here +she is back practically the moment we are!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I can't control Miss +Chester's movements—I couldn't foresee when she would come back. +In Rome she told me she would stay on.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">161</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Rising and facing him.</i>] +Ah! that's what I wanted to see, if you really <i>would lie</i> +to me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What do you mean?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Beside herself.</i>] +Liar! [<i>He only looks at her, with his face hard and set; she is +insane with jealousy for the moment.</i>] <i>You sent</i> for Ruth to +come back.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>And</i> if <i>I +did</i>?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You tried to deceive me about +it. And if you'll tell me a lie about one thing, you'll tell me a lie +about another, and I don't believe one word of all your explanations +about the intrigue between you and Ruth Chester!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Taking her two +hands.</i>] Sit down!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sits in the arm-chair, half forced +by him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>Why</i> did you send for +Ruth Chester to come back?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">162</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I have told you before, I am +trying to help Miss Chester.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> "<i>Ruth!</i>"</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I am trying to help her in a +great and serious trouble.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Why did you send for her to +come back? What's the trouble?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I've told you before I can't +tell you.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You daren't tell me, and you +haven't even the face to tell another lie about it!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> If you say another word, I +shall <i>hate</i> you! If you <i>won't</i> control <i>yourself</i>, I +must make you, as well as keep my own sane balance. You have insulted my +love for you to-night as you've never done before; you've struck at my +own ideal of <i>you</i>; you've almost done, in a word, what I warned +you you might do—<i>kill</i> the love I have for you!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">163</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Frightened.</i>] Jack!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I mean what I say!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In tears.</i>] +That—that you—you don't love me?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> That is not what I said, but +I tell you now that since I first began to care for you, never have I +loved you so little as I do to-night.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>With an effort at angry +justification.</i>] And suppose I tell you it is your own fault, because +you haven't treated me—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Interrupting her.</i>] +Like a <i>child</i>, instead of a <i>woman</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, because you've kept part +of yourself from me, and that part you've given—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> For God's sake, stop! +[<i>A pause—<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> is now +thoroughly frightened; slowly she comes to her senses.</i>] Do you +<i>want</i> a rupture for +<span class = "pagenum">164</span> +good between us? [<i>No answer.</i>] Can't you see what I tell you is +true? That I can't bear any more to-night? That if you keep on you will +rob <i>me</i> of every bit of love I have for you, just as you've +already robbed me of the woman I thought you were?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> "Already!" No, no, Jack, +don't say that. Oh, what have I done!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She cries.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> You've done something very +serious, and before you do more— [<i>Speaking hardly.</i>] +—I think we'd better not stay in this evening; it would be wiser +for both of us if we went out somewhere.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, I couldn't go out feeling +this way! I've hurt you, hurt you terribly! Oh, why do I do it? Why +can't I help myself?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I think one more scene +to-night +<span class = "pagenum">165</span> +would finish things for us. I <i>warn</i> you of that, Jinny—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes to the desk and sits at it, +looking blankly before him. She comes slowly, almost timidly, behind his +chair.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, don't say it! don't say +it! Try to forgive me—oh, Jack, I hate myself, and I'm so ashamed +of myself! I know I've disappointed you awfully, awfully! You <i>did</i> +idealize me; I knew it when you married me, but I told you then I wasn't +worth your loving me, didn't I? I never pretended to be worthy of you. I +always knew I wasn't.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Hush!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It's true! it's only too +awfully true. But do you remember how you answered me then when I told +you I wasn't worth your loving me?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">166</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Coldly and without looking +at her.</i>] No.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You took me in your arms and +held me so I couldn't have got away if I'd wanted to—which I +didn't—and stopped the words on my lips with your <i>kisses</i>. +[<i>Her throat fills. He makes no reply. She goes on very +pathetically.</i>] <i>How I wish</i> you'd answer me that way now!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Whose fault is it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, mine! <i>mine</i>! I know +it. <i>You</i> don't know it one-half so well as I! I love you better +than anything in the world, love everything of you—the turn of +your head, the blessed touch of your hand, the smallest word that comes +from your dear lips—the thoughts that your forehead hides, but +which my heart guesses when I'm sane! And yet, try as hard as I can, +these mad fits take hold of me, and although I'd willingly <i>die</i> to +save you <i>pain</i>, still <i>I</i>, <i>I</i> myself, hurt and wound +you +<span class = "pagenum">167</span> +past all bearing! It doesn't make any difference that <i>I</i> suffer +too! <i>I ought</i> to! I deserve to—you <i>don't</i>! Oh, no! I +know I'm a disappointment and a failure!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Her eyes fill up with tears and her +voice breaks.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>He turns to her.</i>] +No, Jinny, not so bad as that, only I thought you were +<i>big</i>—and you're <i>so little</i>, oh, <i>so small</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, it's true; I'm +small—I'm <i>small</i>! Oh, I'd like to be big, too! I want to be +noble and strong, but I'm not—I'm as weak as water—only it's +<i>boiling</i> water! I want to be Brunhilde, and I'm only Frou Frou! +Yes, I'm little; but I <i>love</i> you—<i>I love you!</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sinks on to a stool beside him. A +moment's pause.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>With a trembling voice.</p> + +<p>You don't mind my sitting here?</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">168</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Very quietly, he places his arm about +her neck, his hand on her shoulder. She quickly steals up her hand to +take his, and leaning her head over it, kisses his hand. He draws it +away and kisses her hair.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Timidly, very +softly.</i>] You forgive me?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>With a long sigh.</i>] +Yes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Bursting into tears and +burying her face upon his knees.</i>] Thank you—thank you—I +know I don't deserve it—I don't deserve it—I don't deserve +it!<!--She doesn't. Though he's an idiot too, so maybe they deserve each +other.--></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Softly.</i>] +Sh!—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +half turns and looks up at him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Very, very quietly.</i>] +You forgive me—but still—yes, I see it in your face, you +don't love me the same. You look so tired, dear.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Also very quietly.</i>] +I am, Jinny.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">169</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> And—happy?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I'm <i>not</i> quite +happy.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I wish I could make you +so—make you love me the old way. You used to smile a little when +you looked at me—Jack, you don't any more. But I mean to make you +to-night, if I can, and to make you love me as much as ever you did.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Good luck, dear.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Brightening.</i>] What +time is it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Looking at his +watch.</i>] Nearly nine.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I suppose it is too late for +me to dress and for us to go to the theatre?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Oh, yes,—and I'm too +tired.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Triumphantly.</i>] Well, +then, you shall have your theatre at home! If Mahomet won't go to the +mountain, the mountain must go to your lordship!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">170</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I don't understand!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Well, just wait— +[<i>She blows her nose.</i>] —till I bathe my face and eyes a +little; I feel rather bleary! [<i>Starting to go, she stops and +turns.</i>] Good-by?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Questioningly.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Quietly.</i>] +Good-by.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Who wanted him to call +her to him and kiss her.</i>] Oh, very well! but I'll <i>make</i> you +smile yet and <i>kiss</i> me of your own accord to-night—you'll +see!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Left.</p> + +[<i>She is heard singing in her room. <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> goes to the desk and after a long sigh he +begins to write.</i>] + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Writing.</i>] Dear Ruth. +The satisfaction of the visit to Brooklyn prevents me from being +disappointed at having missed your telegram till +<span class = "pagenum">171</span> +too late to go to your house to-night. My heart aches for the blow you +must have this evening, but please God you will bear it bravely. The man +who loves you is not bad, but he has been weak. However, I feel once he +can shake off the burden of his present marriage, you will never have +cause to complain of him again. And if your future happiness lies truly +in his hands, it will be safe there.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Calls from her room.</i>] +Are you ready?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He stops writing.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> In your orchestra chair?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> What will you have, tragedy +or comedy?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Smiling.</i>] Shall we +begin with tragedy?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> All right.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">172</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Continues to write.</i>] So +far I have been able to keep Jinny in absolute ignorance, but I fear the +blow must fall upon her soon, and I dread to think of what she, too, +will suffer. Help me to keep it from her as long as we can, won't +you?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +comes back; she has changed her dress to a loose negligée gown, with a +red turban on her head; she brings two sheets with her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Excuse me one minute while I +set the stage! [<i>Moving toward each other the big arm-chair and the +sofa, she covers them with the sheets. <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> turns from his letter on the desk, to +watch.</i>] Uncle Tom's Cabin, Act Four! [<i>She goes out only for a +moment, and reënters, wearing a man's overcoat, with a pillow tied in +the middle with a silk scarf, eyes, nose, and mouth made on it with a +burnt +<span class = "pagenum">173</span> +match.</i>] Eliza crossing the ice! Come, honey darling! [<i>To the +pillow.</i>] Mammy'll save you from de wicked white man! [<i>Jumping up +on the sofa, and moving with the springs.</i>] <i>You</i> ought to do +the bloodhounds for me, Jack! Excuse me, but you look the part! +[<i><span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> watches her, not unamused, +but without smiling.</i>] Hold tight to Lize, honey, and don't be afeerd +o' dat big black man over dah—dat's Uncle Tom. [<i>Crossing to the +arm-chair.</i>] Don't be afeerd, honey; it's Lize dat's cuttin' de ice +this time. [<i>She throws the pillow away and drags off the two +sheets.</i>] Oh, I can see this is too serious for you!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She starts singing a cakewalk and +dances across the room until she reaches him, where she finishes.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Very good, Jinny! I'm sure +we couldn't have seen better at the theatre.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">174</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Ah! You're getting yourself +again!—Darling! Come!—Come!—come to the pianola and +you shall have the sextette! It's in there ready; I heard mother +struggling with it. You don't suppose she has designs upon the Casino, +do you? Now—ready?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes to the pianola and starts +to play the sextette from <ins class = "correction" title = +"correct spelling as printed">"Florodora."</ins> She runs to the +opposite side of the room and begins to sing and dance, crossing to +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> as he plays.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>After a few +moments.</i>] But I can't see you and play at the same time; I don't +like it!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Delighted.</i>] You +<i>want to see me</i>, do you?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Of course I do!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Jack! [<i>Delighted.</i>] +Well, then, turn round!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">175</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>, hurrying the time of the song, turns it into a +regular skirt dance. She dances delightfully and <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> cannot resist her charm. His face lightens, he +smiles, and love comes into his eyes. <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> sees and dances and sings all the better till +she reaches him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Rising, he takes her +into his arms.</i>] You adorable Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Ah, Jack! You're smiling +again and—<i>you love me</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Clasping her arms about his neck.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes! Is the theatre +finished?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, only the first act. +[<i>He sits in the big arm-chair, <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +on his knee.</i>] I'm <i>tired</i>! [<i>He kisses her. There is a pause. +There is a knock on the door at Right.</i>] Oh, hang it! [<i>Knock +repeated.</i>] <i>Don't</i> answer it! We haven't half made up yet!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">176</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> But we must answer it, +dear.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>As she rises +unwillingly.</i>] I don't see why—I should have let her knock till +she went away.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Come in!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Maggie</span> enters with a letter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> What is it, Maggie?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> A note from Miss Chester, +m'm, and she's downstairs herself waiting for an answer.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> For <i>me</i>?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Taking the letter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> No, m'm; I think she said it +was for <i>Mr.</i> Austin.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>Oh!</i>—You may wait +outside for the answer, Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes, m'm.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Slowly goes to <span +class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> and gives him +<span class = "pagenum">177</span> +the letter, lightly.</i>] I see now why you were so anxious to let +Maggie in. Perhaps you were expecting this.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny! [<i>Holding her by +the hand and trying to pull her over to him.</i>] Come, I'll give you a +kiss for the letter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No, thank you, I don't want +kisses that are given by you for letters from Ruth Chester. Yes! do kiss +me! [<i>He kisses her.</i>] I <i>won't</i> be jealous! +<i>I won't be!</i> [<i>Clinching her teeth.</i>] See, I'm not +jealous a bit! Read your old letter!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> opens the note and reads it. As he does so +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> has passed on to the desk and +sees <span class = "smallcaps">Austin's</span> unfinished letter to +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span>, which after a little hesitation +she picks up and reads. <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span>, having +read <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth's</span> note, looks up thoughtfully +a second, and then re-reads it. <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +is furious over what she +<span class = "pagenum">178</span> +reads. As she finishes she gives a little cry from the very depths of +her heart.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, <i>Jack</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What is it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Nothing!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She sinks by the desk, crushing the +letter in her hand. She looks over at him, and then down at the letter, +and then back at him.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Maggie!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Rising suddenly. She +speaks with a voice trembling with only half-contained emotion and +passion.</i>] I told her to wait in the hall; may I read it?</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Holding out her hand for the +letter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Now look here, +Jinny,—I always let you read everything, don't I?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Hiding his letter behind +her back.</i>] Yes. [<i>Holding out her other hand.</i>] Give it +to me!</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">179</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Now begin to show that you +really are going to turn over a new leaf, and that your love is going to +have perfect confidence, and don't ask to see this letter.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> But I <i>do</i> ask to +see it!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Then this time I must refuse +you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> What! is it even more +compromising than <i>your</i> letter to her?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> What letter? [<i>Looking +first on the desk, he looks across at her and sees it in her hand. He is +angry, but also frightened for fear it has told her her brother's +secret.</i>] And you've read it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It lay open on the desk +there, and anyway the end justifies me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>In an agony.</i>] What +does it tell you? I forget what I wrote!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> It tells me that my jealousy +all along +<span class = "pagenum">180</span> +has been right, that I've been a fool to let you blind me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>With a great sigh of +relief.</i>] Is that all?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Beside herself.</i>] "Is +that all!" Isn't that enough? Dear God, isn't that enough? That there's +an understanding between you and Ruth to get rid of <i>me</i>!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> If it tells you that, the +letter lies! Give it to me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No! <i>I'll</i> read it to +you! [<i>Reads with bitter emphasis.</i>] "The satisfaction of the visit +to Brooklyn prevents me from being disappointed at having missed your +telegram till too late to go to your house to-night!" So—you and +she went to Brooklyn, did you, and that's why you came back too late to +go to the theatre with me? You <i>cheat</i>! [<i>She screams in her +madness. +<span class = "pagenum">181</span> +A pause.</i>] Why don't you answer—why don't you say +something?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Because if I speak as I +feel, I'm afraid of saying something I'll regret all my life!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You don't deny, then?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Yes! that is due to Ruth. +Whatever you may feel about <i>me</i>, you have no <i>right</i> to +<i>insult</i> her!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, <i>there's more to</i> +the letter!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny, don't you see what +you're doing?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Yes, I'm getting at the truth +at last! [<i>Reads.</i>] "My heart aches for the blow you must have this +evening! The man who loves you—"</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> You shan't read any more; +you're mad now!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Tearing the letter away from her.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">182</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I don't need the letter, the +words are burning in here! [<i>Pressing her hands to her forehead.</i>] +"The man who loves you isn't bad, only weak. However, I feel once we can +shake off the burden of <i>this present marriage</i>"—oh! +you—you <i>brute</i> to say that!—"you will never have cause +to complain of him again! So far I have been able to keep Jinny in +perfect ignorance, but I feel the blow must fall upon her +now—"</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Interrupted.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Shall I tell you <i>the +truth</i>?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> You don't have to; I've found +it out for myself!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>In weariness, in +disgust, in utter hopelessness.</i>] No! what's the use. You've done it +now—let it go! Let it all go—the whole thing! What's the +use!—it's finished!— [<i>A knock on the door at +Right.</i>] Come in!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">183</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Maggie enters and closes the door +behind her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Please, sir, Miss Chester +came upstairs and made me knock again to see if there was an answer and +if you will see her now or not.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Suddenly—aflame +with her idea.</i>] Yes! Maggie, show her in!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No, no! What do you want to +do! I'll see Miss Chester to-morrow, Maggie.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +has crossed to the door, Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Ruth! Ruth!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Off stage.</i>] Yes? May I +come?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>Do</i> come in!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She recrosses <ins class = +"correction" title = "so in original: missing 'the'?">room</ins>; she +and <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> face each other for a +second.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>In a lowered voice.</i>] +For God's sake, be careful!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span> +enters Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">184</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> Jinny!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Going to her quickly to embrace +her.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>, without speaking, draws away and stares at her +with a look of hatred. <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span>, seeing it, +stops short, and looks from <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> to +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> for explanation—she turns +to <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> and gives him her hand, which +he takes, presses, and drops; <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny's</span> +shoulders contract at this moment; <span class = "smallcaps">Ruth</span> +immediately turns again to <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> What is it, Jinny? [<i>To +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span>.</i>] Surely she doesn't blame +<i>me</i> in any way.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> <i>Blame you!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> She doesn't <i>know</i>.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> That's a lie! I know +everything, Ruth! I know why you followed my husband to Rome, and why he +sent for you to come back here. I know that you and he were in Brooklyn +<span class = "pagenum">185</span> +this afternoon, and that you only plan to get rid of me by some divorce, +and by hook or crook to marry each other!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> No!—No!—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Oh, you can lie, too, can +you? I won't keep you waiting long! You've stolen my husband from +me—take him. I won't <i>share</i> him with any woman! He's yours +now, and I'll soon be out of your way!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>Jinny!</i></p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>To Austin.</i>] She must +be told the truth.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span> bows his head.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Now you'll make up your +story, will you? I tell you it's useless. If he wouldn't let me see your +compromising letter, I've seen a letter from <i>him</i> to <i>you</i> +to-night that gives the whole thing away.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">186</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> [<i>Very quietly.</i>] Your +husband went to Brooklyn <i>without me</i>, as your <i>brother</i> will +tell you, to see the clergyman who married me, or <i>thought</i> he +<i>married</i> me to <i>Geoffrey Tillman</i> three months ago! [<i><span +class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> looks up with a start.</i>] That +marriage was <i>illegal</i> because your brother was already married, +and Mr. Austin tried and did get the promise of silence this afternoon +about the Brooklyn service, to prevent a charge of bigamy against your +brother. The first marriage, which still holds good, was +with—Maggie, your present servant—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +stands immovable. There is a silence.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Geoffrey is not at your +house?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Ruth.</span> No, he left when I came on +here. As I wrote you in the note I sent upstairs, I was too stunned by +what he told me to answer then, and I wanted a word of advice with you. +[<i>She turns +<span class = "pagenum">187</span> +to <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] <i>I</i> knew what I +thought was my <i>marriage</i> to your brother must be kept secret, but +I could not learn why. This was my trouble, which, after your marriage, +I selfishly laid on your husband's shoulders, thinking he might help me! +[<i>No answer from <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span>, who stands as +if struck dumb and into stone.</i>] Mr. Austin only learned the whole +truth when we met that day in Rome. <i>I</i> did not learn till to-day +that I was not honestly your brother's wife. I had to be told, because +divorce proceedings are to be started at once to break—the +other—marriage. [<i>No answer from <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span>.</i>] To spare me, and above all to spare you +the knowledge of your brother's sin, your husband has kept Geoffrey's +secret from you. You have <i>well</i> repaid him! [<i>She turns again to +<span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span>.</i>] Good-by—I feel +to-night I couldn't marry Geoffrey again. He's tumbled so far off his +<span class = "pagenum">188</span> +pedestal he has fallen out of my heart. But still—we'll see; I've +told him to come to-morrow. <i>Thank you</i> from the bottom of my +heart—it's full of gratitude, even if it is broken!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>She goes out Right.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +slowly turns, almost afraid to look at <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin</span>. He stands stern, with set face.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>In a low voice, ashamed +to go near him.</i>] Can you forgive me? Can you—</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Ugh!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Crossing room for his coat.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> I'm mad! You know I don't +know what I do. But I <i>love you</i>—I love you! +Forgive me!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Never!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Taking up his coat.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> Where are you going?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Out of this house.</p> + +<p><span class = "pagenum">189</span> +<span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> If you leave me, I'll not bear +it! I'll kill myself! I warn you!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Bah!—Good-by!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Going to the door Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> No! Where are you going?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Out of this house <i>for +good</i>!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>At the door he turns and looks at +her.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Echoes.</i>] For +good?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>For good!</i></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He goes out, slamming the door behind +him.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +stands a moment motionless. She then cries faintly—"Jack!" She +goes to the door and pushes it open, crying out again in loud, strong +despair, "Jack!" There is a moment's pause. She cries out again weakly, +heartbrokenly, "Jack!"—comes back into the room, and throwing +herself down on the floor, her head resting on her arms in the +<span class = "pagenum">190</span> +arm-chair, she sobs hysterically, wildly, "What have I done! Dear God, +what have I done!" as</p> + +<p class = "curtain">THE CURTAIN FALLS</p> + + +<span class = "pagenum">191</span> +<p class = "act"><a name = "actIV" id = "actIV">ACT IV</a></p> + +<p class = "scene"><a name = "actIV_i" id = "actIV_i">Scene I</a></p> + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +Dawn of the next day. At the rise of the curtain <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> is by the open window, whose curtains she has +thrown aside. The sky is blood-red and streaked with gold the moment +before sunrise. <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> is worn and +haggard, with hair dishevelled.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Turning and leaning +against the window.</i>] Day at last! What a night—what a +night—but now it's morning and he hasn't come back! He means it! +And it's my own fault—it's my own fault! [<i>She shivers. She +closes the window and comes away. After a moment's pause she goes +deliberately and looks at the several gas +<span class = "pagenum">192</span> +fixtures in the room. She then closes all the doors and locks them. She +carefully draws down the shade and closes in the curtains of the window. +She hesitates, then pulls aside the curtains and the shade, and takes a +long, last look at the dawn. She closes it all in again. She gets +Austin's picture from the desk and places it on the table near the +centre of the room. She then goes to the gas bracket at the Right and +turns on the gas. She lights it to see if the gas is all right; then +blows it out. She then crosses to the other bracket and turns that on; +she goes to the chandelier at centre, and, mounting a chair, turns on +its three jets. She then sits down by the table with <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin's</span> picture before her, and looking into its +eyes, her elbows on the table, her head in her hands, she waits.</i>] +Oh, Jack, my beloved! I couldn't help it—I never for one minute +stopped loving +<span class = "pagenum">193</span> +you better than everything else in my life, but no more than I could +stop loving you could I stop or help being jealous! Once the cruel idea +has got hold of me it seems to <i>have</i> to work its way out! +Everything gets red before me and I don't seem to know what I say or do! +It's no excuse, I know. I've got no excuse, only I <i>love</i> you! +You'll forgive me when I'm gone, won't you, Jack? You'll know I +<i>loved</i> you!—loved you so I couldn't <i>live</i> without +you!—loved you!—<i>loved</i> you! [<i>She kisses the +photograph tenderly, adoringly, slowly, in tears.</i>] +Loved—you—loved you!—loved—</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Her head drops forward, as</p> + + +<p class = "curtain">THE CURTAIN FALLS</p> + + +<span class = "pagenum">194</span> +<p class = "scene"><a name = "actIV_ii" id = "actIV_ii">Scene II</a></p> + +<p class = "scenedesc"> +The same morning, three hours later. The curtain rises on the same scene +in a dull, cold, early morning light. The lamp has burnt itself out. +<!--What lamp? Why didn't it set off a terrific fire?--> A tiny ray of +sunlight steals through a slip between the curtains. <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> sits by the table, her arms spread over it and +her head on her arms—she is perfectly still. <span class = +"smallcaps">Austin's</span> picture is before her. There is a moment's +silence. Voices are heard outside, approaching door, at Right. Gradually +what they say is distinguished.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> No, sir. She hasn't been to +bed; I've been to her bedroom—that door's not unlocked.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> She's been here all +night?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Yes, sir. But twice in the +night, sir, I came to the door and spoke to her and she +<span class = "pagenum">195</span> +wouldn't answer me—but I could hear her walking up and down and +sometimes talking to herself.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> [<i>Calls softly.</i>] +Jinny! [<i>Knocks softly.</i>] It's father! [<i>No answer.</i>] It looks +as if she were asleep now.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>At a little +distance.</i>] Father!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> I'm outside the library +door.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Nearer.</i>] I can't +wait—have you seen her? Will she see me?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> She's locked herself in +here. She's not been to her own room.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Not been to bed at all! Poor +Jinny—God forgive me.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Maggie says she's walked +the floor all night.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He knocks on the door Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> [<i>Outside the door, Right, +rather softly.</i>] Jinny! I'm so sorry! I can't say how sorry! +<span class = "pagenum">196</span> +I've thought it out through the night, and I think I understand things +better. [<i>He waits a moment for an answer.</i>] Jinny, answer me! you +shall be as jealous as you like, and I'll always explain and kiss away +those doubts of yours, and I'll have no more secrets from you, dear. Not +one! Jinny! [<i>As he calls there is a slight movement of one of <span +class = "smallcaps">Jinny's</span> arms. With a note of alarm.</i>] +Father! I can't hear a sound of breathing! [<i>A moment's pause as +they listen.</i>] She threatened it—she threatened it several +times! [<i>With great determination.</i>] We must get into this +room—do you hear me—we must get in if we have to break the +door down! [<i>They shake the door. He calls a little louder.</i>] +Jinny, Jinny darling—do you hear me? [<i><span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> makes a sort of feeble effort to lift her head, +but fails.</i>] Jinny, for God's sake, answer me! I love you +Jinny—<i>Jinny!</i> [<i>Very slowly <span class = +"smallcaps">Jinny</span> lifts her +<span class = "pagenum">197</span> +head and, with difficulty, she hears as if in a dream; she is dazed, +barely alive.</i>] She doesn't answer!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> See if the key is in the +lock.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> No.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Get the other keys, +Maggie.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> <i>Father!</i> Gas! Don't +you smell it?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> What!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Gas, I tell you! O God! +she's killed herself! Jinny! Jinny!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Beating the door.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +staggers up, she tries to call "Jack"—but the word only comes out +in a half-articulate whisper! She tries again, but fails.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Maggie.</span> Here's a key, sir.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +tries to go to the door; she staggers a few steps and then falls.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">198</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They try one key—it does not +unlock the door; they try another.</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> +half raises herself and makes an effort to crawl, but is unable and +sinks back upon the floor.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Break the door in, father! +We daren't waste any more time!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> No, this has +done it!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>They open the door and rush in. They +stop aghast at <span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> and the +oppressiveness of the gas in the room.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Jinny!</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Quick—the window! +[<i><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman</span> tears aside the curtains +and throws open the window. The sunshine of full morning pours in. He +then rushes to the opposite gas burners and turns them off. Kneeling +quickly beside her.</i>] <i>Jinny! My wife!</i> My beloved!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "pagenum">199</span> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He takes her up in his arms and +hurries to the window.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Tillman.</span> Are we too late?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> I don't know. No! she's +breathing—and see—see!—she knows me!—she knows +me! [<i><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny</span> smiles at him +pathetically.</i>] Send Maggie for the doctor!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span><span class = +"smallcaps">Tillman</span> goes out Right.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> Jinny, forgive me! Forgive +me! Forgive me! [<i>She slips her two arms up and joins them about his +neck. <span class = "smallcaps">Austin</span> kisses her.</i>] Father! +We've saved her! Oh, thank God, we've saved her!</p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>Bringing her to big chair and putting +her in it, he kneels at her feet.</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Jinny.</span> [<i>Whispers faintly.</i>] +<i>Dear Jack!</i> You forgive <i>me</i>—all my beastly +jealousy?</p> + +<p><span class = "smallcaps">Austin.</span> There's one thing stronger +even than +<span class = "pagenum">200</span> +jealousy, my Jinny. And that's <span class = "smallcaps">love</span>! +That's <i>LOVE</i>! <!--F2 stops herself from throwing up--></p> + +<p class = "stagedir"> +<span class = "plaintext">[</span>He kisses her hands, and</p> + +<p class = "curtain">THE CURTAIN FALLS</p> + +<hr> + +<hr> + +<span class = "pagenum">[1]</span> + +<h4 class = "extended sans">REPRESENTATIVE PLAYS</h4> + +<h5>BY WELL-KNOWN PLAYWRIGHTS</h5> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. CLYDE FITCH</h5> + +<h6>Each 75c. net (postage 6c.)</h6> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Climbers</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb">A keen satire on contemporary New York society, +which explains its title thus:—</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb">"There are social climbers, but wealth is as good +a goal. I was a climber after wealth and everything it brings."</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb">"And I after happiness and all it +brings."—<i>Act II</i>.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Girl with the Green Eyes</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A study of the jealous temperament. The play is full of touches of a +remarkable intuition, and the heroine's character is portrayed with rare +delicacy.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Toast of the Town</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A comedy dealing with the life of an actress in the period of George +III., and with the tragedy of middle age.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Her Own Way <span class = "subtitle">and</span><br> +The Stubbornness of Geraldine</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +are two original American plays, ingenious and novel in their employment +of pictorial devices. These plays are funds of delightful sentiment, +unhackneyed, piquant humor, and minute observation.</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +For the faithfulness of his chronicles of American life Mr. Fitch is to +be ranked with Mr. Henry Arthur Jones in the English field, and with the +best of the modern French dramatists on the Continent.</p> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "extended sans">THE MACMILLAN COMPANY</h5> + +<h5>64-66 Fifth Avenue, New York</h5> + +<hr> + +<span class = "pagenum">[2]</span> + +<h4 class = "extended sans">REPRESENTATIVE PLAYS</h4> + +<h5>BY WELL-KNOWN PLAYWRIGHTS</h5> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By HENRY ARTHUR JONES</h5> + +<h6>Each 75c. net (postage 6c.)</h6> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Manœuvres of Jane</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +An Original Comedy in Four Acts.</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +"The occasional publication of a play by Henry Arthur Jones is a matter +for congratulation.... In 'The Manœuvres of Jane' we see Mr. Jones +in his most sprightly mood and at the height of his ingenuity;... its +plot is plausible and comic, and its dialogue is witty."</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +<i>The Transcript</i> (Boston).</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Mrs. Dane's Defence</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A Play in Four Acts.</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +First produced in London by Sir Charles Wyndham. Margaret Anglin and +Charles Richman scored a success in it in New York and elsewhere.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Whitewashing of Julia</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +An Original Comedy in Three Acts and an Epilogue.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Saints and Sinners</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +An Original Drama of Modern English Middle-Class Life in Five Acts.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Crusaders</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +An Original Comedy of Modern London Life.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Case of Rebellious Susan</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A Comedy in Three Acts.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Carnac Sahib</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +An Original Play in Four Acts.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Triumph of the Philistines</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Michael and His Lost Angel</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Tempters</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Liars</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Masqueraders</p> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "extended sans">THE MACMILLAN COMPANY</h5> + +<h5>64-66 Fifth Avenue, New York</h5> + +<hr> + +<span class = "pagenum">[3]</span> + +<h4 class = "extended sans">REPRESENTATIVE PLAYS</h4> + +<h5>BY WELL-KNOWN PLAYWRIGHTS</h5> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. WINSTON CHURCHILL</h5> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Title-Mart</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A live comedy of American life, turning on schemes of ambitious elders, +through which love and the young folks follow their own sweet ways.</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, 16mo, 75c. net (postage 6c.)</p> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By PAUL HEYSE</h5> + +<h6 class = "smallcaps">Freely translated by WILLIAM WINTER</h6> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Mary of Magdala</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +The English version used by Mrs. Fiske in New York and elsewhere.</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, $1.25 net</p> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS</h5> + +<h6>(Plays for an Irish Theatre)</h6> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Where There is Nothing</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Hour Glass and Other Plays</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, each $1.25 net (postage 7c.)</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +In the Seven Woods</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, 12mo, $1.00 net (postage 6c.)</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +"Mr. Yeats' work is notable as supplying that rarest of all +things—a distinctly new strain in English poetic and dramatic +literature."—<span class = "smallcaps">Miss Katharine Lee +Bates</span> in the <i>Transcript</i> (Boston).</p> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "extended sans">THE MACMILLAN COMPANY</h5> + +<h5>64-66 Fifth Avenue, New York</h5> + +<hr> + +<span class = "pagenum">[4]</span> + +<h4 class = "extended sans">REPRESENTATIVE PLAYS</h4> + +<h5>BY WELL-KNOWN PLAYWRIGHTS</h5> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. THOMAS HARDY</h5> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Dynasts</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A Drama of the Napoleonic Wars. In three parts.</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Part I., 12mo, cloth, $1.50 net</p> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. STEPHEN PHILLIPS</h5> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, each $1.25 net (postage 8c.)</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Sin of David</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +The theme is indicated by the title, but the time of the play is that of +Cromwell, and runs its course during the English civil war.</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Ulysses</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A dramatic success in both London and New York, first presented in a +marvellous stage-setting by Beerbohm Tree, and pronounced "the most +strikingly imaginative production the present generation has +witnessed."</p> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. PERCY W. MACKAYE</h5> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, each $1.25 net (postage 7c.)</p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Fenris the Wolf <span class = "subtitle">A Tragedy.</span></p> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +The Canterbury Pilgrims</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +"A rollicking little farce-comedy, with lyrics +interspersed."—<i>Churchman.</i></p> + +<hr class = "tiny"> + +<h5 class = "boldf">By MR. LAURENCE HOUSMAN</h5> + +<p class = "booktitle"> +Bethlehem</p> + +<p class = "bookblurb"> +A Nativity Play. Performed with Music by <span class = +"smallcaps">Joseph Moorat</span>, under the Stage Direction of <span +class = "smallcaps">Edward Gordon Craig</span>, December, MCMII.</p> + +<p class = "bookprice"> +Cloth, 12mo, $1.25 net (postage 7c.)</p> + +<hr class = "mid"> + +<h5 class = "extended sans">THE MACMILLAN COMPANY</h5> + +<h5>64-66 Fifth Avenue, New York</h5> + +<hr> + +<p class = "mynote"> +The following text was printed at the beginning of the original book, +immediately after the copyright notice. It is included here for +historical interest only.</p> + +<p>All acting rights, both professional and amateur, are reserved by +Clyde Fitch. Performances forbidden and right of representation +reserved. Application for the right of performing this piece must be +made to The Macmillan Company. Any piracy or infringement will be +prosecuted in accordance with the penalties provided by the United +States Statutes:—</p> + +<p>"<span class = "smallcaps">Sec.</span> 4966.—Any person +publicly performing or representing any dramatic or musical composition, +for which copyright has been obtained, without the consent of the +proprietor of the said dramatic or musical composition, or his heirs or +assigns, shall be liable for damages therefor, such damages in all cases +to be assessed at such sum, not less than one hundred dollars for the +first and fifty dollars for every subsequent performance, as to the +Court shall appear to be just. If the unlawful performance and +representation be wilful and for profit, such person or persons shall be +guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period +not exceeding one year."—<span class = "smallcaps">U. S. +Revised Statutes</span>, Title 60, Chap. 3.</p> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Girl with the Green Eyes, by Clyde Fitch + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES *** + +***** This file should be named 19101-h.htm or 19101-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/9/1/0/19101/ + +Produced by Louise Hope, David Garcia and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Kentuckiana Digital Library) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Girl with the Green Eyes + A Play in Four Acts + +Author: Clyde Fitch + +Release Date: August 22, 2006 [EBook #19101] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES *** + + + + +Produced by Louise Hope, David Garcia and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Kentuckiana Digital Library) + + + + + + + + THE GIRL WITH THE + + GREEN EYES + + + + + [Illustration: {publisher's logo}] + + + + + The Girl with the + Green Eyes + + _A Play In Four Acts_ + + By + + CLYDE FITCH + + + [Symbol: fleur-de-lis] + + + The Macmillan Company + _New York MCMV_ + London: Macmillan & Co., Ltd. + + + + + + Copyright, 1905, + By THE MACMILLAN COMPANY. + All Rights Reserved. + + Set up and electrotyped. Published November, 1905. + + #Norwood Press# + J. S. Cushing & Co.--Berwick & Smith Co. + Norwood, Mass., U.S.A. + + + + + To + + CLARA BLOODGOOD + + Good Friend and Ideal Interpreter + of "Jinny" + + + + +_THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES_ + + +ACT I. The Tillmans' House, New York. + _The Wedding._ + + (Two months elapse.) + +ACT II. The Vatican, Rome. + _The Honeymoon._ + + (Three weeks elapse.) + +ACT III. The Austins' House, New York. + _Home._ + + (The night passes.) + +ACT IV. The Same. + + Scene I. _Dawn of the Next Day._ + + Scene II. _Early the Same Morning._ + + + + +_The Persons More or Less Concerned in the Play_ + + + "JINNY" AUSTIN. + MR. TILLMAN } _Her Parents._ + MRS. TILLMAN } + GEOFFREY TILLMAN. _Her Brother._ + SUSIE. _Her Cousin._ + MISS RUTH CHESTER } + MISS GRACE DANE } _Her Bridesmaids._ + MISS BELLE WESTING } + MISS GERTRUDE WOOD } + MAGGIE. _Maid at the Tillmans'._ + HOUSEMAID. _At the Tillmans'._ + BUTLER. _At the Tillmans'._ + FOOTMAN. _At the Tillmans'._ + JOHN AUSTIN. + MRS. CULLINGHAM. + PETER CULLINGHAM. _Her Son._ + MRS. LOPP. + CARRIE. _Her Daughter._ + A FRENCH COUPLE. + A GERMAN COUPLE. + A GUIDE. + A DRIVER. + A GROUP OF TOURISTS. + + + + +Originally produced under the management of Charles Frohman at the +Savoy Theatre, New York, on the 25th of December, 1902, with the +following cast:-- + + "Jinny" Austin Miss Clara Bloodgood + Mr. Tillman Mr. Charles Abbott + Mrs. Tillman Mrs. Harriet Otis Dellenbaugh + Geoffrey Tillman Mr. John M. Albaugh, Jr. + Susie Miss Edith Taliaferro + Miss Ruth Chester Miss Lucille Flaven + Miss Grace Dane Miss Mary Blyth + Miss Belle Westing Miss Helena Otis + Miss Gertrude Wood Miss Felice Morris + Maggie Miss Lucile Watson + Housemaid Miss Angela Keir + Butler Mr. Gardner Jenkins + Footman Mr. Walter Dickinson + John Austin Mr. Robert Drouet + Mrs. Cullingham Mrs. McKee Rankin + Peter Cullingham Mr. Harry E. Asmus + Mrs. Lopp Miss Ellen Rowland + Carrie Miss Clara B. Hunter + A French Couple { Mr. Henry De Barry + { Miss Louise Delmar + A German Couple { Mr. J. R. Cooley + { Miss Elsa Ganett + A Guide Mr. Frank Brownlee + A Driver Mr. Lou W. Carter + { Miss Elizabeth French + A Group of Tourists { Miss Gertrude Bindley + { Miss Myrtle Lane + + + + +ACT I + + +_A charming room in the Tillmans' house. The walls are white woodwork, + framing in old tapestries of deep foliage design, with here and there + a flaming flamingo; white furniture with old, green brocade cushions. + The room is in the purest Louis XVI. The noon sunlight streams through + a window on the left. On the opposite side is a door to the hall. At + back double doors open into a corridor which leads to the ballroom. + At left centre are double doors to the front hall. A great, luxurious + sofa is at the left, with chairs sociably near it, and on the other + side of the room a table has chairs grouped about it. On floral small + table are books and objets d'art, and everywhere there is a profusion + of white roses and maidenhair fern._ + +_In the stage directions Left and Right mean Left and Right of actor, + as he faces audience._ + +_Three smart-looking SERVANTS are peering through the crack of the + folding door, their backs to the audience. The pretty, slender MAID + is on a chair. The elderly BUTLER dignifiedly stands on the floor. + The plump, overfed little HOUSEMAID is kneeling so as to see beneath + the head of the BUTLER._ + + +HOUSEMAID. [_Gasping._] Oh, ain't it a beautiful sight! + +BUTLER. [_Pompously._] Not to me who 'ave seen a Lord married in +Hengland. + +MAGGIE. Oh, you make me sick, Mr. Potts, always talking of your English +Aristocracy! I'm sure there never was no prettier wedding than this. Nor +as pretty a bride as Miss Jinny. + +BUTLER. [_Correcting her._] Mrs. Haustin! + +HOUSEMAID. She looks for all the world like one of them frosted angels +on a Christmas card. My, I wish I could 'a' seen her go up the aisle +with the organ going for all it was worth! + +MAGGIE. It was a _beautiful_ sight! + +BUTLER. A good many 'appens to be 'aving the sense to be going now. + +HOUSEMAID. Could you hear Miss Jinny say "I do," and make them other +remarks? + +MAGGIE. Yes, _plain_, though her voice was trembly like. But Mr. Austin +he almost shouted! + + [_Laughing nervously in excitement._ + +BUTLER. 'E's glad to get 'er! + +MAGGIE. _And her him!_ + +HOUSEMAID. Yes, that's what I likes about it. Did any one cry? + +MAGGIE. Mrs. Tillman. Lots of people are going now. + +HOUSEMAID. What elegant clothes! Oh, gosh! + +BUTLER. [_Superciliously._] Mrs. Cullingham don't seem in no 'urry; +she's a common lot! + +MAGGIE. I don't care, she's rich and Miss Jinny likes her; she just +throws money around to any poor person or church or hospital that wants +it, or _don't_! So she can't be so _very common_ neither, Mr. Potts! + +HOUSEMAID. Say, I catch on to something! Young Mr. Tillman's sweet on +that there tall bridesmaid. + +MAGGIE. [_Sharply._] Who? + +BUTLER. Miss Chester. I've seen there was something goin' hon between +them whenever she's dined or lunched 'ere. + +MAGGIE. [_Angry._] 'Tain't true! + +BUTLER. I'll bet my month's wages. + +MAGGIE. I don't believe you! + +BUTLER. Why, what's it to _you_, please? + +MAGGIE. [_Saving herself._] Nothing-- + +HOUSEMAID. Well, I guess it's truth enough. That's the second time I've +seen him squeeze her hand when no one wasn't lookin'. + +MAGGIE. Here, change places with me! [_Getting down from her chair._] +If you was a gentleman, Mr. Potts, you'd have given me _your place_! + + [_Witheringly._ + +BUTLER. If I was a _gentleman_, miss, I wouldn't be here; _I'd_ be on +the other side of the door. + + [_He moves the chairs away._ + +MAGGIE. [_To Housemaid._] Honest, you saw something between them? + +HOUSEMAID. Who? + +MAGGIE. Him and her? Mr. Geoffrey and Miss Chester-- + +HOUSEMAID. _Cheese it!_ they're coming this way! + + [_She and the MAID and the BUTLER vanish through the door Right._ + + [_GEOFFREY and RUTH enter through the double doors quickly at back. + GEOFFREY is a young, good-looking man, but with a weak face. He is of + course very smartly dressed. RUTH is a very serenely beautiful girl, + rather noble in type, but unconscious and unpretending in manner. + They close the doors quickly behind them._ + +GEOFFREY. We'll not be interrupted here, and I must have a few words +with you before you go. + + [_He follows her to the sofa where she sits, and leans over it, with + his arm about her shoulder._ + +RUTH. Oh, Geof,--Geof, why weren't we married like this? + +GEOFFREY. It couldn't be helped, darling! + +RUTH. It isn't the big wedding I miss, oh, no, it's only it seemed +sweeter in a church. Why did we have to steal off to Brooklyn, to that +poor, strange little preacher in his stuffy back parlour, and behave as +if we were doing something of which we were ashamed? + +GEOFFREY. You love me, I love you,--isn't that the chief thing, dearest? + +RUTH. But how much longer must we keep it secret? + +GEOFFREY. Till I can straighten my affairs out. I can't explain it all +to you; there are terrible debts,--one more than all the others,--a debt +I made when I was in college. + +RUTH. If I could only help you! I have a _little_ money. + +GEOFFREY. No, I love you too much; besides, this debt isn't _money_, +and I hope to get rid of it somehow before long. + +RUTH. Forgive me for worrying you. It is only that every one is so happy +at this wedding except me,--dear Jinny brimming over with joy, as I +would be,--and it's made me feel--a little-- + +GEOFFREY. [_Comes around the sofa and sits beside her._] I know, dear, +and it's made me feel what a brute I am! Oh, if you knew how I hate +myself for all I've done, and for the pain and trouble I cause you now! + + [_MAGGIE, her sharp features set tense, appears in the doorway on the + left behind the curtains and listens._ + +RUTH. Never mind, we won't think of that any more. + +GEOFFREY. I can never throw it off, not for a minute! I'm a worthless +fellow and how can you love me-- + +RUTH. [_Interrupting him._] I _do_! You are worth everything to me, and +you will be worth much to the world yet! + +GEOFFREY. I love you, Ruth--that's the one claim I can make to deserve +you. But it's helped me to give up _all_ the beastly pleasures I used to +indulge in! + +RUTH. [_Softly._] Geof! + +GEOFFREY. Which I used to think the only things worth living for, and +which now, thanks to you, I loathe,--every one of them. + +RUTH. I'm so glad! I've been some help, then. + +GEOFFREY. If I'd only got you earlier, I'd have been a different man, +Ruth! + +RUTH. [_Smiling and taking his nervous hand in hers._] Then I mightn't +have fallen in love with you if you were a _different_ man! + +GEOFFREY. Dear girl! Anyway, this is the good news that I want to tell +you--I hope now to have things settled in a couple of weeks. + +RUTH. [_In glad relief._] Geoffrey! + +GEOFFREY. But--I mayn't be successful; it might be, Ruth--it might be, +we would have to wait--for years-- + +RUTH. [_Quietly._] I don't think I could bear that! It's not easy for me +to lie and deceive as I've had to the last few months; I don't think I +could keep it up. + + [_PETER CULLINGHAM enters suddenly, from the ballroom, a pale young + man, but, unlike GEOFFREY, hard and virile._ + +PETER. Oh, here you are! I say, are you two spoony? Just the way _I_ +feel! [_Laughing._] I caught and hugged old Mrs. Parmby just now! I +think it's sort of in the air at weddings, don't you? + +GEOFFREY. [_Rising._] I'm surprised to see you've left the refreshment +table, Peter. + +PETER. They sent me to find Miss Chester--they're going to cut the +bridesmaid's cake, and if you two really are spoony, Miss Chester, you'd +better not miss it--you might get the ring! + + [_They laugh as PETER takes out a bottle from which he takes a round, + black tablet which he puts in his mouth._ + +RUTH. [_Also rising._] I'd better go. + + [_PETER is making frantic efforts to swallow the tablet._ + +GEOFFREY. [_Noticing him._] What's the matter with you? + +PETER. O dear! I've eaten so many ices and fancy cakes, I've got awful +indigestion, and I'm trying to swallow a charcoal tablet. + +RUTH. Come with me and get a glass of water. + +PETER. No, it's very bad to drink water with your meals; but I'll get a +piece of bridesmaid's cake--that'll push it down! + + [_PETER and RUTH go out through the double doors._ + + [_The moment they are out of the room, MAGGIE comes from behind the + curtain and goes straight up to GEOFFREY. He looks astonished and + frightened._ + +GEOFFREY. What do you want? Have you been listening? + +MAGGIE. So that's it, is it? You want to marry her when you can get rid +of me. + +GEOFFREY. [_With relief._] What do you mean? + +MAGGIE. Oh, I may not have heard everything, but I heard and saw enough +to catch on that you're in love with Miss Chester. + +GEOFFREY. Well? + +MAGGIE. Well, you won't marry her--I'll never set you free. + +GEOFFREY. Sh! + + [_Looking about and closing the doors._ + +MAGGIE. Oh, they're all in the dining room. + +GEOFFREY. [_Angry._] What do you want, anyway? + +MAGGIE. [_She pleads a little._] When I came here to your house and got +a position, it was because I _loved_ you, if you _had_ treated me bad, +and I hoped by seeing you again, and being near you, you might come back +to me and everything be made straight! + +GEOFFREY. Never! Never! It's impossible. + +MAGGIE. [_Angry again._] Oh, is it! Well, the dirty little money you +give me now only holds my tongue quiet so long's you behave yourself and +don't run after any other girls! But the minute you try to throw me +down, I'll come out with the whole story. + +GEOFFREY. I was drunk when I married you! + +MAGGIE. More shame to you! + +GEOFFREY. You're right. But I was only twenty--and you--led me on-- + +MAGGIE. [_Interrupting him._] Me! led you on! _me_, as decent and nice +a girl as there was in New Haven if I do do housework, and that's my +wedding ring and you put it there, and mother's got the certificate +locked up good and safe in her box with my dead baby sister's hair and +the silver plate off my father's coffin! + +GEOFFREY. We mustn't talk here any more! + +MAGGIE. You look out! If I wasn't so fond of your sister Miss Jinny, +and if the old people weren't so good to me, I'd just show you right +up _here_--_now_! + +GEOFFREY. I'll _buy_ you off if I can't divorce you! + +MAGGIE. _You!_ Poof! + + [_GIRLS' voices are heard from the ballroom._ + +GEOFFREY. Look out--some one's coming! + +MAGGIE. [_Going._] You haven't got a red cent; my cheque's always one of +your _father's_! + + [_She goes out Right._ + +GEOFFREY. Good God! what am I going to do--shoot myself, if I don't get +out of this soon--I must get some air! + + [_He goes out Left._ + + [_JINNY opens the double doors, looks in, and then enters. She is an + adorable little human being, pretty, high-strung, temperamental, full + of certain feminine fascination that defies analysis, which is partly + due to the few faults she possesses. She is, of course, dressed in + the conventional wedding-dress, a tulle veil thrown over her face._ + +JINNY. Not a soul! Come on! + + [_She is followed in by the four BRIDESMAIDS--nice girls every one of + them--and also, very slyly, by SUSIE, a very modern spoiled child, who + sits unobserved out of the way at the back._ + +Now, my dears, I wish to say good-by all by ourselves so I can make you +a little speech! [_All laugh gently._] In the first place I want to tell +you that there's nothing like marriage! And you must every one of you +try it! Really, I was never so happy in my life! + +GRACE. Must we stand, or may we sit down? + +JINNY. Oh, stand; it won't be long and you'll only crush your lovely +frocks. In fact, I advise you not to lose any time sitting down again +until you've got the happy day fixed! + +RUTH. You know, Jinny darling, that there is no one so glad for your +happiness as your four bridesmaids are--isn't that so, girls? + +ALL. Yes! + + [_And they all together embrace JINNY, saying, "Dear old Jinny," + "Darling Jinny," "We'll miss you dreadfully," etc., ad lib., till + they get tearful._ + +JINNY. Good gracious, girls, we mustn't cry. I'll get red eyes, and +Jack'll think what an awful difference just the marriage service makes +in a woman. + + [_The doors at the back open, and AUSTIN appears in the doorway._ + + [_AUSTIN is a typical New Yorker in appearance, thirty-two years + old, good-looking, manly, self-poised, and somewhat phlegmatic in + temperament._ + +AUSTIN. Hello! May a mere man come in to this delectable tea party? + +JINNY. _No_, Jack! But _wait_--by the door till I call you! + +AUSTIN. [_Amused._] Thank you! + + [_He goes out, closing the door._ + +GERTRUDE. We'll miss you so awfully, Jinny. + +JINNY. Just what I say! Get a man to keep you company, and then you +won't miss any one. + +BELLE. Yes, but attractive men with lots of money don't come into the +Grand Central Station by every train! + +JINNY. [_Putting her arm about her._] You want too much, my dear Belle! +And you aren't watching the Grand Central Station either half so much +as you are the steamer docks for a suitable person. Now don't be angry; +you know you want a good big title, and you've got the money to pay, +but, my dear Belle, it's those ideas of yours that have kept you single +till--twenty-six!--now _that_ you must confess was nice of me, to take +off _three_ years! + +BELLE. [_Laughing._] Jinny, you're horrid! + +JINNY. No, I'm not! You know I'm _really_ fond of you, or you wouldn't +be my bridesmaid to-day; it's only that I want _your wedding_ to be as +happy as _mine_--that's all, and here's a little gift for you to +remember your disagreeable but loving friend by! + + [_Giving her a small jewelry box._ + +BELLE. Thank you, Jinny! Thank you! + + [_A little moved._ + +GRACE. Mercy! I hope you're not going to take each one of us! + +JINNY. I am, and come here, _you're_ next! + +GRACE. I'll swear I don't want to get married at all! + +JINNY. Don't be silly, you _icicle_! Of course you don't; you freeze +all the men away, so that you've no idea how nice and comfy they can +be! My advice to you, Grace darling,--and I _love_ you, or I wouldn't +bother,--is to _thaw_! [_Laughs._] I used to be awfully jealous of you-- + +GRACE. [_Interrupting._] Oh! + +JINNY. Yes, I was! You're lots prettier than I am. + +GRACE. Jinny! + +JINNY. You _are_! But I got over it because I soon saw you were so cold, +there was no danger of any conflagration near you! Oh, I've watched your +_eyes_ often to see if any man had lighted the fires in them yet. And +now I'm determined they shall be lighted. You're too _cold_! Thaw, +dear,--not to _everybody_,--that would be like slushy weather, but +don't keep yourself so continually so far below zero that you won't have +time to strike--well--say eighty-five in _the shade_, when the right bit +of masculine sunshine _does_ come along! Here--with my best love! + + [_Giving her a small jewelry box._ + + [_GRACE kisses JINNY._ + +GERTRUDE. I am the next _victim_, I believe! + +JINNY. All I've got to say to _you_, Miss, is, that if you don't decide +pretty soon on _one_ of the half dozen men you are flirting with +_disgracefully_ at present, they'll every one find you out and you'll +have to go in for widowers. + +GERTRUDE. [_Mockingly._] Horrors! + +JINNY. Oh, I don't know! I suppose a widower is sort of _broken in_ and +would be more likely to put up with your caprices! For the sake of your +charm and wit and true heart underneath it all, you dear old girl you! + + [_Giving her a small jewel box._ + +GERTRUDE. Thank you, Jinny. I'm only afraid I will do the wrong thing +with you away! You know you're always my ballast! + +JINNY. Nonsense! Female ballast is no good; masculine ballast is the +only kind that's safe if you want to make life's journey in a love +balloon. [_SHE turns to RUTH CHESTER._] Ruth--the trouble with you is, +you're too sad lately, and show such a lack of interest. I should think +you might be in love, only I haven't been able to find the man. Anyway, +if you aren't in love, you must _pretend_ an interest in things. Of +course, men's affairs are awfully dull, but they don't like you to talk +about them, so it's really very easy. All you have to do is listen, +stare them straight in the eyes, think of whatever you like, and +look pleased! It _does_ flatter them, and they think _they_ are +_interesting_, and you _charming_! Wear this, and think of me! [_Giving +her a box._] and be happy! I _want_ you to be _happy_--and I can see you +aren't! + +RUTH. [_Kissing her._] Thank you, dear! + +JINNY. There, that's all!--except--when I come home from abroad in +October, if every one of you aren't engaged to be married, I'll wash my +hands of you-- + + [_They all laugh._ + + [_SUSIE, sliding off her chair at back, comes forward._ + +SUSIE. Now, it's my turn! You can't chuck me! + +JINNY. [_Trying not to laugh._] Susie! where did you come from and _what +do_ you mean? + +SUSIE. Oh, you give me a pain!--I went up the aisle with you to-day, +too--what's the matter with telling me how to get married! + +JINNY. I'll tell you this, your language is dreadful; where do you get +all the boy's slang? You don't talk like a lady. + +SUSIE. I'm not a lady. I'm a little girl! + +JINNY. You _talk_ much more like a common boy. + +SUSIE. Well, I'd rather _be_ a _boy_! + +JINNY. Susie, I shall tell Aunt Laura her daughter needs looking after. + +SUSIE. Oh, very well, cousin Jinny. If you're going to make trouble, +why, forget it! + + [_Turns and goes out haughtily, Right._ + +JINNY. [_Going to the double doors, calls._] Now you can come in, Jack. + + [_AUSTIN enters._ + +AUSTIN. And now I've only time to say good-by. All your guests have gone +except the Cullinghams, who are upstairs with your mother, looking at +the presents. + +GERTRUDE. Come! All hands around him! + + [_The five GIRLS join hands, with AUSTIN in the centre._ + +BELLE. We don't care if every one else has gone or not, _we're_ here +yet! + +AUSTIN. So I see! But I am ordered by my father-in-law--ahem! [_all +laugh_] --to go to my room, or he thinks there will be danger of our +losing our train. + +ALL THE BRIDESMAIDS. [_Ad lib._] Where are you going? Where are you +going? We won't let you out till you tell us. + +AUSTIN. I daren't--I'm afraid of my wife! + +JINNY. Bravo, Jack! + +GRACE. Very well, then, we'll let you out, on _one_ condition, that you +kiss us all in turn. + + [_The GIRLS laugh._ + +JINNY. No! No! [_Breaking away._] He shan't do any such thing! + + [_They all laugh and break up the ring._ + +GERTRUDE. Dear me, isn't she jealous! + +BELLE. Yes, it is evidently time we all went! Good-by, Jinny! [_Kissing +her._] A happy journey to _Washington_! + +JINNY. No, it isn't! + + [_General good-bys. JINNY begins with RUTH at one end, and AUSTIN at + the other; he says good-by and shakes hands with each girl._ + +GERTRUDE. [_Kissing JINNY._] Good-by, and a pleasant trip to _Niagara +Falls_! + +JINNY. Not a bit! + +GRACE. [_Kissing JINNY._] Good-by, I believe it's _Boston_ or _Chicago_! + +JINNY. _Neither!_ + +RUTH. Good-by, dear, and all the happiness in the world! + + [_Kisses her._ + +JINNY. Thank you. + + [_She turns and goes with the other three girls to the double doors at + back, where they are heard talking._ + +RUTH. Mr. Austin? + +AUSTIN. Yes? + + [_Joining her._ + +RUTH. [_Embarrassed._] You like your new brother, _don't_ you? + +AUSTIN. Geof? most certainly I do, and Jinny adores him. + +RUTH. I know, then, you'll be a good friend to him if he needs one. + +AUSTIN. Surely I will. + +RUTH. I think he does need one. + +AUSTIN. Really-- + + [_The GIRLS are passing out through the doors._ + +BELLE. Come along, Ruth. + + [_THEY pass out and JINNY stands in the doorway talking to them till + they are out of hearing._ + +RUTH. Sh! please don't tell any one, not even Jinny, what I've said! I +may be betraying something I've no right to do, and don't tell _him_ +I've spoken to you. + +AUSTIN. All right! + + [_JINNY turns around in the doorway._ + +RUTH. Thank you--and good-by. + + [_Shaking his hand again._ + + [_JINNY notices that they shake hands twice. A queer little look comes + into her face._ + +AUSTIN. Good-by. + +RUTH. Have they gone?--Oh! [_Hurrying past_ JINNY.] Good-by, dear. + + [_She goes out through the double doors._ + +JINNY. [_In a curious little voice._] Good-by.... + +[_She comes slowly down the room toward AUSTIN, and smiles at him +quizzically._] What were you two saying? + +AUSTIN. Good-by! + +JINNY. But you'd said it once to her already! Why did you have to say +good-by _twice_ to _Ruth_? Once was enough for all the other girls! + +AUSTIN. [_Banteringly._] The first time _I_ said good-by to _her_, and +the second time _she_ said good-by to _me_! + +JINNY. Do you know what I believe--_Ruth Chester's in love with you_! + +AUSTIN. Oh, darling! + + [_Laughs._ + +JINNY. Yes, that explains the whole thing. No wonder she was _triste_ +to-day. + +AUSTIN. [_Laughing._] Jinny, sweetheart, don't get such an absurd notion +into your head. + +JINNY. [_Looks straight at him a moment, then speaks tenderly._] +No--no--I know it's not your fault. There was no other woman in this +house for you to-day but _me_, _was_ there? + +AUSTIN. There was no other woman in the world for me since the first +week I knew you. + + [_Taking her into his arms._ + +JINNY. This is good-by to _Jinny Tillman_! + + [_He kisses her._ + +Jack, darling, do you think I could sit on your knee like a little child +and put my arm around your neck and rest my head on your shoulder for +just five seconds--I'm _so tired_! + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM opens the door._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh! + + [_Shuts the door very quickly and knocks._ + + [_JINNY and AUSTIN laugh._ + +JINNY. Yes, yes--come in! + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM enters. She is a handsome, whole-souled, florid + woman; one of those creatures of inexhaustible vitality who make + people of a nervous temperament tired almost on contact by sheer + contrast. She is the kindest, best meaning creature in the world._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, do excuse me! I haven't any more tact!--and I hate +to interrupt you, but I must say good-by. [_Calls._] Peter! + +PETER. Yes'm. + + [_Entering with a glass of water and a powder. He sits in the + arm-chair at right, and constantly looks at his watch._ + +AUSTIN. I'm much obliged to you, Mrs. Cullingham, for the interruption, +as I was sent long ago to make myself ready for the train, if you'll +excuse me! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Certainly! + +JINNY. Good-by! + + [_Taking his hand as he passes her._ + +AUSTIN. Good-by! + + [_He goes out Right._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. If it's time for _him_, it's certainly time for _you_. +I won't keep you a minute! + +JINNY. No, really we've plenty of time,-- [_both sit on sofa._] Wasn't +it a lovely wedding! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I never saw a sweeter, my dear! And it was perfectly +elegant! Simply great! + +JINNY. And isn't Jack-- + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. He is! And so are you! In fact I've been telling your +mother I don't know how to thank you both. You've asked me to-day to +meet the swellest crowd I've ever been in where I was _invited_, and +didn't have to buy tickets, and felt I had a right to say something +besides "excuse me," and "I beg your pardon." Of course, I've sat next +to them all before in restaurants and at concerts, but this time I felt +like the real thing myself, and I shall never forget it! If you or your +husband ever want any mining tips, come to me; what my husband don't +know about mines isn't worth knowing! + +JINNY. I'm as glad as I can be if you've had a good time, and you +mustn't feel indebted to us. Ever since we met in Egypt that winter, +mamma and I have always felt you were one of our best friends. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Of course you know it isn't for _my own_ sake I'm doing +these stunts to get into Society. It's all for _my boy_. He's _got_ to +have the best--or the _worst_, however you look at it! [_Laughing._] +Anyway, I want him to have a chance at it, and it belongs to him through +his father, for my first husband was a real swell! + + [_Looking at PETER lovingly._ + + [_At this moment, PETER, having again looked at his watch, tips up the + powder on his tongue, and swallows it down with the water._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Poor darling! He suffers terribly from indigestion. +That's an alkali powder he takes twenty minutes after eating. Peter, we +must say good-by now. + +PETER. [_Coming up._] Good-by, Miss Jinny. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. _Mrs. Austin!_ + +JINNY. Oh, I'll always be "Miss Jinny" to Peter! + +PETER. Thank you! We've had a great time at your wedding! _Bully food!_ +But I'm _feeling_ it! [_He turns aside._] Excuse me! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I was just telling Mrs. Austin-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +JINNY. "Jinny"--don't change. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Thank you-- [_Rises to go._] I was just saying we won't +forget in our social life, will we, Peter, that Miss Jinny gave us the +biggest boost up we've had yet? + + [_JINNY also rises._ + +PETER. Well, you know, mother, I don't think the game's worth the +candle. It's begun to pall on me already. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I really think he's going to be superior to it! + +PETER. I only go now for your sake. + + [_MRS. TILLMAN, coming from Right, speaks off stage._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Jinny! Jinny! + +JINNY. Mother! + + [_MRS. TILLMAN enters._ + +JINNY. I ought to dress? + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_To MRS. CULLINGHAM._] She'll be late if she isn't +careful. + +JINNY. I'm going to. Is Maggie there? + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, waiting! + +JINNY. Good-by. [_Kisses MRS. CULLINGHAM._] Good-by. [_Shakes PETER'S +hand._] + +PETER. Many happy returns! + + [_JINNY goes out Right._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Come, I want to give you some of Jinny's flowers to take +home with you. Would you like some? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I should love them! + + [_They go out through the doors at back._ + + [_PETER is suffering with indigestion. He takes a charcoal tablet, and + SUSIE cautiously enters Right._ + +SUSIE. There you are! Have you got 'em? + +PETER. No, I gave them back to you. + +SUSIE. Then they're in there on the table--get 'em quick, the trunks are +coming down now! + + [_PETER goes out quickly at back, as the BUTLER and MAN SERVANT enter + Right, carrying a large new trunk with a portmanteau on top of it._ + +SUSIE. Put them right over there for a minute! [_They put them down in +the centre of the room, and the FOOTMAN goes out Right._] And mind, you +don't split on us, Thomas. Auntie Tillman knows all about it--it's just +to be a nice little surprise for Cousin Jinny and my new uncle. + +BUTLER. Very well, miss. + + [_He also goes out Right._ + + [_At the same time PETER reenters at back with a roll of papers and + some broad white satin ribbon. The papers are about half a foot broad + and two feet long, and on them is printed, "We are on our honeymoon."_ + +PETER. [_With gay excitement._] I've got 'em. + +SUSIE. Get some water--there's sticky stuff on the back! + + [_PETER gives her the papers and ribbons and goes out again at back._ + +SUSIE. Quick! [_Ties a big white bow on the portmanteau and on a trunk +handle._] If Auntie Tillman sees 'em, I'll bet she'll grab 'em off. +She'll be as mad as _hops_! + + [_The BUTLER and FOOTMAN reenter Right, and bring down an old steamer + trunk and a gentleman's dressing-bag._ + +BUTLER. [_To the FOOTMAN._] Go and see if the carriage is there! + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir. + + [_He goes out Left._ + + [_As PETER reenters from the back, with the water._ + +SUSIE. Quick now! Quick! + + [_They stick one label on the big steamer trunk facing the audience._ + +PETER. I say isn't that great! + + [_SUSIE giggles aloud with delight. The BUTLER, standing at one side, + smiles. They put another label on the other trunk._ + +SUSIE. [_Giggling._] I heard them plan it,--they're taking one old trunk +purposely so as people would not catch on they were just married! + + [_Giggles delightedly._ + + [_The FOOTMAN reenters with a driver, Left._ + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir, it's here. + +BUTLER. [_To the driver._] You can take that first. + + [_Pointing to the steamer trunk._ + + [_DRIVER goes out Left with it on his shoulder, and the portmanteau._ + +BUTLER. Now, James, you're to go over with the luggage to Twenty-third +Street Ferry and check the heavy baggage; you know where to. + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir. + +SUSIE. [_Eagerly._] Oh, _where to?_ + +BUTLER. I am hunder hoath not to tell, Miss. + +SUSIE. O pish! + + [_Kneeling in the big arm-chair and watching proceedings from behind + its back._ + +BUTLER. [_Continues to the FOOTMAN._] And wait with the checks and Mr. +Austin's dressing-bag-- [_Showing it._] --until they come. + +FOOTMAN. Yes, sir. + +PETER. And make haste, or, I say, somebody'll turn up and give our whole +joke away! + + [_The DRIVER reenters._ + +SUSIE. Yes, _do_ hurry! + +FOOTMAN. [_To the DRIVER._] Come along. + + [_They take the big trunk out Left. BUTLER follows with the + dressing-bag._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Calls from the room at back._] Peter darling, are you +there? + +SUSIE. Phew! Just in time! + + [_Sliding down into a more correct position in the chair._ + +PETER. Yes, mother! + + [_Going to back._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_In the doorway, at back._] Come, take these beautiful +roses from Mrs. Tillman! + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM and MRS. TILLMAN enter._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_With her arms full of roses._] Thomas will take them +down. + +PETER. No, I'd like to. Aren't they bully? + + [_He takes them._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_To MRS. TILLMAN._] Good-by, and thank you again. I +know you must want to go up to Jinny. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, she may need me to help her a little. Good-by. +Good-by, Peter. + +PETER. Good-by, ma'm. + + [_MRS. TILLMAN goes out Right._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Why, Susie, how do you do? + +SUSIE. [_Glides out of the chair and stands before it._] How do you do? + + [_Embarrassed._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. You're a good little girl, I hope? + +SUSIE. I don't! I hate good little girls! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. O my! + + [_She goes out, laughing, Left._ + + [_PETER, coming to SUSIE, catches her in his arms and kisses her, much + against her will._ + +SUSIE. [_Furious._] Oh, you horrid, nasty thing, you! [_She strikes at +him; he runs; she chases him from one side of the room to the other, +around a sofa and table, and out Left, screaming as she chases him._] I +hate you! I hate you! + + [_MAGGIE enters Right._ + +MAGGIE. Miss Susie, Mrs. Tillman wants to see you upstairs. + +SUSIE. What for? + +MAGGIE. I don't know, Miss. + +SUSIE. Pshaw! have I got to go? All right! + + [_Going toward the door at Right._ + + [_AUSTIN enters, meeting SUSIE._ + +AUSTIN. Hello! Where are _you_ going? + +SUSIE. Oh, up to Auntie Tillman's room. Goodness knows what for; it's an +awful bore! Want to come along? + +AUSTIN. No, thank you; but if you see your Cousin Jinny, you might tell +her I am down. + +SUSIE. [_Hanging on to him._] I say! Where are you and Cousin Jinny +going to, anyway? + +AUSTIN. [_Smiling._] I don't know. + +SUSIE. O my, what a fib! And that's a nice example to set a little girl! + + [_She goes out Right._ + +MAGGIE. [_Coming forward._] I beg pardon, sir, but may I speak to you a +minute? + +AUSTIN. Certainly, Maggie, what is it? + +MAGGIE. I've been trying for a chance to see you alone. I wouldn't +bother you, sir--but it's only because I'm fond of Miss Jinny, and of +Mr. and Mrs. Tillman, and they've all been so good to me; I know it +would nearly kill 'em if they knew. + +AUSTIN. Come, Maggie, knew what? + +MAGGIE. Well, _one member_ of this family ain't been good to me, sir. +[_From this point her feelings begin to get the better of her and she +speaks rapidly and hysterically._] He's been bad, bad as he could, and +somebody's got to talk to him, and I don't see who's a-goin' to do it +but you. If he don't change, I'll not hold my tongue any longer. It's +all I can do for their sakes to hold it now! + +AUSTIN. Look here, what are you talking about? You don't mean Mr. +Geoffrey? + +MAGGIE. Yes, I do, sir; he's my husband. + +AUSTIN. What!! + +MAGGIE. We was married when he was at Yale, sir; I was in a shop there. + +AUSTIN. But--! Well, after all, isn't this your and Geoffrey's affair? +Why bring me in? + +MAGGIE. Because he's making love to Miss Chester, and promising to marry +_her_ now, and if he don't stop--I'll make trouble! + +AUSTIN. But if he's married to you, as you say--he can't marry--any one +else. + +MAGGIE. He's tried to make me believe our marriage ain't legal, because +he was only twenty and he'd been drinking! + +AUSTIN. What makes you think Mr. Geoffrey cares for--Miss Chester? + +MAGGIE. I just heard and see him making love to her _here_! + +AUSTIN. This is a pretty bad story, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes, sir, and the worst is, sir, I know I ain't good enough for +him, and that's why I've kept still about it these three years, but I +can't help loving him no matter how ugly he's treated me. [_Breaking +down into tears._] I just can't help it! I _love_ him, sir, even if I'm +only a servant girl, and I can't stand it thinking he's going to try and +get rid of me for some one else! + + [_She sobs out loud._ + +AUSTIN. Sh!--Maggie. Sit down a minute, and control yourself. +Somebody'll hear you, and besides they'll be coming down presently. I'll +have a talk with Mr. Geoffrey when I come back-- + + [_Interrupted as GEOFFREY enters Left. He doesn't see MAGGIE, who is + collapsed in a corner of the sofa._ + +GEOFFREY. [_To AUSTIN._] Ah! Thank goodness I've caught you; I had an +awful headache and went out for a breath of air, and then I was afraid I +might have missed you! I knew in that case Jinny would never forgive me, +nor--I--myself--for that--matter-- + + [_His voice grows less exuberant in the middle of his speech and + finally at the end almost dies away, as he sees the expression in + AUSTIN'S face and realizes that something is wrong somewhere. When + he stops speaking, MAGGIE gives a gasping sob. He hears it, and + starting, sees her._ + +GEOFFREY. Maggie! + +AUSTIN. Geoffrey, is what this girl says true? + +GEOFFREY. That I married her in New Haven? Yes. + +MAGGIE. [_Rises._] I'll go, please, I'd rather go. + +AUSTIN. Yes, go, Maggie; it's better. + + [_MAGGIE goes out Right._ + +GEOFFREY. [_As soon as she is out of the room._] Promise me, Jack, you +won't tell any one! It's awful, I know! For two years at college I went +all to pieces and led a rotten life,--and one night, drunk, I married +her, and it isn't so much her fault. I suppose she thought I loved +her,--but this would break up the old lady and gentleman so, if they +knew, I couldn't stand it! And Jinny, for God's sake, don't tell Jinny. +_She respects me._ You won't tell her, will you? + +AUSTIN. No. But Maggie says you want to marry some one else now. + +GEOFFREY. [_With a change, in great shame._] That's true, too. + + [_He sits in utter dejection on the sofa._ + +AUSTIN. How are you going to do it? + +GEOFFREY. I must make money somehow and buy off Maggie. + +AUSTIN. Yes, go out to Sioux Falls, get a divorce there on respectable +grounds, and settle a sum of money on Maggie. + +GEOFFREY. But I can't do that! + +AUSTIN. Why not? + +GEOFFREY. I can't do anything that would give publicity, and that +divorce would. + +AUSTIN. Any divorce would; you can't get rid of that. + +GEOFFREY. I tell you I can't have publicity. Ruth--Miss Chester--would +hear of it. + +AUSTIN. Well, if she loves you, she'll forgive your wild oats, +especially as every one sees now what a steady, straight fellow you've +become. + +GEOFFREY. It's Ruth! But I can't do that. No, Jack, you must help--you +will, won't you? Oh, _do_, for Jinny's sake! Help me to persuade Maggie +to keep silent for good, tear up that certificate of marriage. I was +only twenty; it's hardly legal, and I'll settle a good sum-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +AUSTIN. [_Going straight to him, puts his hand heavily on his +shoulder._] Good God, you're proposing bigamy! You've done enough; don't +stoop to _crime_! + + [_The two MEN face each other a moment. GEOFFREY'S head drops._ + +AUSTIN. Forget you ever said that; do what I tell you when Jinny and I +have gone abroad, so she will be away from it a little, and if you want +money, let me know. + + [_JINNY enters Right, with nervous gaiety, covering an upheaving + emotion which is very near the surface._ + +JINNY. Ready! And there _you_ are, Geof. I've been sending all over the +house after you! Good-by! [_Throwing her arms about him._] Dear old +Geof! Haven't we had good times together! Always, always from the +youngest days I can remember--I don't believe there were ever a brother +and sister so sympathetic; I know there was never a brother such a +perfect darling as you were--I'll miss you, Geof! [_The tears come into +her voice, anyway._] I used to think I'd never marry at all if I +couldn't marry _you_, and I _do_ think _he_ is the only man in the world +who could have taken me away from home, so long as you were there! [_To +AUSTIN, smiling._] You aren't jealous? + +AUSTIN. No! + +JINNY. [_In jest._] Isn't it awful! You can't _make_ him jealous! I +think it's a positive flaw in his character! Not like--_us_, is he? + +GEOFFREY. Dear old girl-- + +JINNY. [_Whispers to him._] And I've noticed how you've overcome certain +things, dear Geof. I know it's been _hard_, and I'm proud of you. + +GEOFFREY. Sh! Jinny, dear old sister! I'll miss _you_! By George, Jin, +the house'll be awful without--but you-- [_His voice grows husky._] +--just excuse me a minute! + + [_He is about to break down, and so hurries out Right._ + +JINNY. [_Sniffling._] He was going to cry! Oh, Jack, you'll be a brother +to Geoffrey, won't you? You know he's been awfully dissipated, and he's +changed it all, all by himself! _If he should go wrong again_--I believe +it would break my heart, I love him so! + +AUSTIN. I'll do _more_ for him, if he ever needs me, than if he were _my +own_ brother, because he's _yours_! + +JINNY. [_Presses his hand and looks up at him lovingly and gratefully._] +Thank you. Wait here just a minute; I know he won't come back to say +good-by. He's gone up to his room, I'm sure--I'll just surprise him with +a hug and my hands over his eyes like we used to do years ago. + + [_She starts to go out Right, and meets MR. and MRS. TILLMAN, who + enter._ + +TILLMAN. The carriage is here! + +JINNY. I won't be a second-- + + [_She goes out Right._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Where has she gone? + +AUSTIN. Up to her brother. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Her father's been locked up in his study for three +hours--he _says_ thinking, but to _me_ his eyes look very suspicious! + + [_Taking her husband's arm affectionately._ + +TILLMAN. [_Clears his throat._] Nonsense! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Well, _how many cigars did you smoke_? + +TILLMAN. Eight. + +MRS. TILLMAN. The amount of emotion that a man can soak out of himself +with tobacco is wonderful! He uses it just like a sponge! + +TILLMAN. Jack, the first thing I asked about you when I heard +that--er--that things were getting this way was, does he smoke? A man +who smokes has always that outlet. If things go wrong--go out and smoke +a cigar, and when the cigar's _finished_, ten to one everything's got +right, somehow! If you lose your temper, don't speak!--a cigar, and when +it's finished, then speak! You'll find the temper all gone up in the +smoke! A woman's happiness is safest with a man who smokes. [_He clears +his throat, which is filling._] God bless you, Jack, it _is_ a wrench; +our only girl, you know. She's been a great joy--ahem! + + [_He quickly gets out a cigar._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Stopping him from smoking._] No, no, dear, they're +_going now_! + +TILLMAN. Well, the best I can say is, I wish you as happy a married life +as her mother and I have had. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Thirty-five _dear_ years! But now, George, let me say a +word--you always have monopolized our new son--he'll be much fonder of +you than _me_! + +TILLMAN. Old lady!--Jealous!-- + +MRS. TILLMAN. Turn about is fair play--you're jealous still of Jinny and +me. [_She pauses a moment._] I think we'd better tell him! + +TILLMAN. All right. The only rifts in our lute, Jack, have been little +threads of jealousy that have snapped sometimes! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Nothing ever serious--of course, _but_ it's a fault that +Jinny shares with us, and the _only fault_ we've ever been able to find. + +TILLMAN. We called her for years the girl with the green eyes. She goes +it pretty _strong_ sometimes! + +AUSTIN. Oh, that's all right--I shall _like_ it! + +MRS. TILLMAN. You'll always bear with her, won't you, if she should ever +get jealous of you? + +AUSTIN. Of _me_? I'll never give _her the chance_. + +MRS. TILLMAN. It isn't a question of chance; you just can't help it +sometimes, can you, George? + +TILLMAN. No, you can't. + +MRS. TILLMAN. And so-- + +AUSTIN. Don't worry! Your daughter's safe with me. I'm not the jealous +sort myself and I love Jinny so completely, so calmly, and yet with my +heart, and soul, and mind, and body, she'll never have a _chance_ even +to _try_ to be jealous of _me_! + +TILLMAN. Sh! + + [_JINNY enters Right._ + +JINNY. I found poor Maggie up in my room crying! She says she can't bear +to have me go away. I think she's sorry now she wouldn't come with me as +maid--and I said good-by to cook and she sniffed! + + [_AUSTIN looks at his watch._ + +AUSTIN. Oh! we ought to go! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Good-by, darling! + + [_Kissing JINNY and embracing her a long time, while AUSTIN and + TILLMAN shake hands warmly and say good-by._ + +JINNY. [_Going to her father._] Good-by, father. Dear old father! + + [_With happy emotion._ + + [_AUSTIN meanwhile is shaking hands with MRS. TILLMAN._ + +JINNY. [_Returns to her mother._] Darling--oh, how good you've always +been to me! Oh, mummy darling, I _shall_ miss you! You'll send me a +letter to-morrow, won't you, or a telegram? Send a telegram--you've got +the address! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_With tears in her eyes._] Yes, it's written down! + +JINNY. You can tell father, but no one else! + + [_Hugs and kisses her mother._ + +TILLMAN. Come, Susan! They'll lose their train! + + [_JINNY again embraces her father._ + +ALL. Good-by! Good-by! + + [_JINNY, starting to go with AUSTIN, suddenly leaves him and runs back + again to her mother and throws herself in her arms. They embrace, in + tears._ + +JINNY. Good-by, mother! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Good-by, my darling! + +TILLMAN. Come, come! they'll lose their train! + + [_JINNY runs to AUSTIN, and with his arms about her, they hurry to + the door Left. They go through the doors at back to window in the + corridor. JINNY stops at the door and she and AUSTIN face each other + a moment._ + +JINNY. [_Looking up at him._] Oh, Jack! + + [_She throws her arms about his neck and buries her face on his + shoulder._ + +AUSTIN. Jinny, Jinny dear, you're not sorry? + +JINNY. [_Slowly raises her head and looks at him, smiling through her +tears, and speaks in a voice full of tears and little sobs._] Sorry? Oh, +no! Oh, no! It hurts me to leave them, but I never was so _happy_ in my +life! + + [_He kisses her and they hurry out, with his arm about her._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_In the corridor, lifts the window._] I hear the door-- + +TILLMAN. There they are! + + [_SUSIE rushes across the stage with a bowl of rice in her arms and + goes out Left._ + + [_MR. and MRS. TILLMAN wave and say "Good-by!" "Good-by!" "Good-by!" + They close the window in silence. The sound is heard as the window + frame reaches the bottom. They turn and come slowly forward, TILLMAN + wiping his eyes and MRS. TILLMAN biting her lips to keep the tears + back. They come into the front room and stop, and for a second they + look around the empty room. TILLMAN puts his hand in his pocket and + takes out his cigar case. MRS. TILLMAN, turning, sees him; she goes + to him swiftly and touches his arm, looking up at him through her + tears. He turns to her and slowly takes her in his arms and holds + her there close and kisses her tenderly on the cheek._ + + [_SUSIE enters Left, with empty bowl, sobbing aloud, as_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + + +ACT II + +(_Two months later_) + + +_The Vatican, Rome; the Tribune of the Apollo Belvedere; a semicircular + room with dark red walls; in the centre is the large statue of Apollo. + There are doorways at Right and Left. There is a bench on the right + side of the room. A single LADY TOURIST enters Right, takes a hasty + glance, yawns, and looking down at her Baedeker, goes out Left. A + PAPAL GUARD is seen passing outside in the court. A FRENCHMAN and his + WIFE (with Baedekers) are seen approaching; they are heard talking + volubly. They enter Left._ + +BOTH. Ah!-- + + [_They stand a moment in silent admiration._ + +HE. [_Reading from Baedeker._] Apollo Belvedere. [_He looks up._] C'est +superb! + +SHE. [_Beaming with admiration._] Magnifique! Voila un homme! + +HE. _Quelle grace!_ + +SHE. _Quelle force!_ + + [_Both talk at once in great admiration and intense excitement for + a few moments. Then he suddenly drops into his ordinary tone and + manner._ + +HE. Allons, allons nous! + +SHE. [_In the same tone._] Oui, j'ai faim! + + [_They go out Right._ + + [_JINNY and AUSTIN enter Left, he looking over his shoulder. They + stand a moment just inside the doorway._ + +JINNY. What are you looking back so much for, Jackie? + +AUSTIN. I thought I saw some one I know. + +JINNY. Who? + +AUSTIN. I didn't know who; it just seemed to be a familiar back. + +JINNY. [_Playfully._] Oh, come! I think the present works of art and +your loving wife are quite enough for you to look at without hunting +around for familiar backs! + +AUSTIN. And Baedeker! [_Reading from Baedeker about the Apollo._] Apollo +Belvedere, found at the end of the fifteenth century, probably in a +Roman villa-- + +JINNY. Of course, Apollo! + +AUSTIN. Great, isn't it? + +JINNY. Stunning! [_She turns and looks at him, smiling quizzically._] +_Still_--but I suppose I'm prejudiced! + +AUSTIN. [_Obtuse._] Still what? + +JINNY. You dear old stupid! You know, Jack, you're deeply and +_fundamentally_ clever and brilliant, but you're not quite-- _bright_-- +_not quick_! + + [_Laughing._ + +AUSTIN. Don't you think having _one_ in the family quick as chain +lightning is enough? What have I missed this time, Jinny? You don't mean +you've found a family likeness in the statue over there? I don't want to +be unappreciative, but it doesn't suggest your father to me in the +least,--nor even Geoffrey. + +JINNY. _Stupid!!_ Of course it doesn't _suggest_ anybody to me--I was +only thinking I sympathized with Mrs. Perkins of Boston,--don't you know +the old story about her? + +AUSTIN. No, what was it? + +JINNY. [_After a quick look around to see that they are alone._] +Well--Mrs. Perkins from Boston was personally conducted here once and +shown this very statue, and she looked at it for a few moments, and then +turned around and said, "Yes, it's all right, but give _me Perkins_!" + +AUSTIN. Jinny! + + [_Laughing._ + +JINNY. Are you shocked? Come, I'm tired; let's sit down here and read my +letters--there's one from Geof. + + [_They sit on the bench at Right, and JINNY takes out a letter from + GEOFFREY._ + +AUSTIN. I'll read ahead in Baedeker and you tell me if there's any news. +[_He opens the Baedeker and reads, and she opens and reads the letter._] +Where is Geof's letter from? + +JINNY. New York, of course; where else would it be? + +AUSTIN. I had an idea he was going away. + +JINNY. Geof! Where? + +AUSTIN. West, a good way somewhere. + +JINNY. But _why_ would he go West? + +AUSTIN. Oh, he had some business, I believe; I remember thinking it was +a good idea when he told me. It was the day we were married--I was +waiting for you to come downstairs. + +JINNY. I think it's very funny Geof never said anything about it to +_me_. + +AUSTIN. My dear, what time had _you_? You were _getting married_!! + +JINNY. I _was_! Thank heaven! I'm _so happy_, Jack! + + [_Snuggling up to him on the bench._ + +AUSTIN. [_Steals a little, quick hug with his arm about her waist._] +Bless you, darling, I don't think there was ever a man as happy as I am! + + [_They start apart quickly as a GERMAN COUPLE enter Right, with a + YOUNG DAUGHTER, who is munching a cake, and hanging, a tired and + unwilling victim, to her mother's hand._ + +WOMAN. Ach! schoen! sehr schoen!! + +MAN. Groesses, nicht? + +WOMAN. _Yah!_ + + [_They stand admiring._ + +AUSTIN. By the way, when you answer your brother's letter, I wish you'd +say I seemed surprised he was still in New York. + +JINNY. [_Reading._] Um--um-- + +MAN. [_Wiping his warm brow._] _Wunderbaum!_ + +WOMAN. _Yah!!_ + + [_They go out Left, talking._ + +JINNY. [_Looking up from her letter._] Oh! what do you think? + +AUSTIN. That you're the sweetest woman in the world. + +JINNY. No, _darling_, I mean _who_ do you think Geoffrey says is over +here and in Italy? + +AUSTIN. I haven't the most remote idea! So far as _I've_ been able to +observe there has been absolutely _no one_ in Italy but _you and me_. + +JINNY. If you keep on talking like that, I shall kiss you! + +AUSTIN. What! before the tall, white gentleman? [_Motioning to Apollo._] +I am dumb. + +JINNY. [_Very lovingly._] Silly! Well!--Mrs. Cullingham and Peter are +over here and have brought Ruth Chester! + +AUSTIN. [_Speaking without thinking._] Then it _was_ her back. + +JINNY. [_With the smallest sharpening of the look in her eye._] When? + +AUSTIN. That I saw just now. + +JINNY. [_With the tiniest suggestion of a strain in her voice._] You +said you didn't know whom it reminded you of. + +AUSTIN. Yes, I know, I didn't quite. + +JINNY. But if you thought it was Ruth Chester, why not have said so? + +AUSTIN. No reason, dear, I simply didn't think. + +JINNY. Well-- [_Sententiously._] --_next time--think!_ + +AUSTIN. What else does Geoffrey say? + +JINNY. Oh, nothing. The heat for two days was frightful--already they +miss me more than he can say-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +AUSTIN. I'll bet. + +JINNY. Father smoked nineteen cigars a day the first week I was gone. + +AUSTIN. _I_ haven't _had_ to smoke _any_! + +JINNY. Mercy! don't boast!--and he thinks they will all soon go to Long +Island for the summer. + +AUSTIN. Doesn't he say a word nor a hint at his going West? + +JINNY. No, he says he may go to Newport for August, and that's all. + + [_Putting away letter, and getting out others._ + +AUSTIN. Going to read all those? + +JINNY. If you don't mind, while I rest. _Do_ you mind? + +AUSTIN. Of course not, but I think while you're reading I'll just take a +little turn and see if I can't come across the Cullinghams. + + [_Rising._ + +JINNY. [_After the merest second's pause, and looking seriously at +him._] Why don't you? + +AUSTIN. I'll bring them here if I find them-- + + [_He goes out Right._ + + [_JINNY looks up where he went off and gazes, motionless, for a few + moments. Then she throws off the mood and opens a letter._ + + [_Two tired Americans enter Right, a girl and her mother, MRS. LOPP + and CARRIE._ + +MRS. LOPP. What's this, Carrie? + +CARRIE. [_Looking in her Baedeker._] I don't know; I've sort of lost my +place, somehow! + +MRS. LOPP. Well, we must be in Room No. 3 or 4--ain't we? + +CARRIE. [_Reads out._] The big statue at the end of Room No. 3 is Diana +the Huntress. + +MRS. LOPP. This must be it, then,--Diana! Strong-looking woman, ain't +she? + +CARRIE. Yes, very nice. You know she was the goddess who wouldn't let +the men see her bathe. + +MRS. LOPP. Mercy, Carrie! and did all the other goddesses? I don't think +much of their habits. I suppose this is the same person those Italians +sell on the streets at home, and call the Bather. + + [_JINNY is secretly very much amused, finally she speaks._ + +JINNY. Excuse me, but you are in one of the cabinets--and this is the +Apollo Belvedere. + +MRS. LOPP. Oh, thank you very much. I guess we've got mixed up with the +rooms,--seems as if there's so many. + +CARRIE. [_Triumphantly._] There! I _thought_ it was a man all the time! + +MRS. LOPP. Well, what with so many of the statues only being piecemeal, +as it were, and so many of the men having kinder women's hair, I declare +it seems as if I don't know the ladies from the gentlemen half the time. + +CARRIE. Did the rest of us go through here? + +JINNY. I beg your pardon? + +CARRIE. Thirty-four people with a gassy guide? We got so tired hearing +him talk that we jes' sneaked off by ourselves, and now we're a little +scared about getting home; we belong to the Cook's Gentlemen and Ladies. + +JINNY. Oh, no, the others haven't passed through here; probably they +have gone to see the pictures; you'd better go back and keep asking the +attendants the way to the pictures till you get there. + +MRS. LOPP. [_With rather subdued voice._] Thank you! We've come to do +Europe and the Holy Land in five weeks for $400--but I don't know, seems +as if I'm getting awful tired--after jes' sevin days. + +CARRIE. [_Affectionately._] Now, mommer, don't give up; it's because you +haven't got over being seasick yet; that's all! + +JINNY. [_Helplessly._] Oh, yes, you'll find it much less tiring in a few +days, I'm sure. + +MRS. LOPP. Still Rome does seem a powerful way from _home_! How'll we +ask for the pictures? + +CARRIE. Why, mommer! "Tableaux!" "Tableaux!" I should think you'd 'a' +learned that from our church entertainments! Good-by; thank you ever so +much. + +MRS. LOPP. You haven't lost _your party_, too, have you? + +JINNY. [_Smiling._] I hope not! He _promised_ to come back!! + +MRS. LOPP. Oh! pleased to have met you--Good-by! + + [_They start off Left._ + +JINNY. No, not that way--back the way you came. + +MRS. LOPP. Oh, thank you! + + [_She drops her black silk bag; out of it drop crackers, an account + book, a thimble, a thread-and-needle case, a bottle of pepsin tablets, + etc. They all stoop to pick the collection up, JINNY helping._ + +JINNY. [_Handing._] I'm sure you'll want these! + +MRS. LOPP. Yes, indeed; don't you find them coupon meals very +dissatisfactory? + +CARRIE. Thank you ever so much again. Come on, mommer! + + [_MRS. LOPP and CARRIE go out Left._ + + [_JINNY looks at her watch and goes back to her letter._ + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM enters Left._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Screams._] Jinny! + +JINNY. [_Jumps up._] Mrs. Cullingham! [_They embrace._] Did Jack find +you? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. No, we haven't seen him! Ruth and Peter are dawdling +along, each on their own; I like to shoot through a gallery. There's no +use spending so much time; when it's over you've mixed everything all up +just the same! + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] Well, I've this minute read a letter from Geoffrey +saying you were over here. And Jack, who thought he got a glimpse of you +a little while ago, went straight off to try and find you. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. What fun it is to see you--and how _happy_ you look! + +JINNY. I couldn't _look_ as happy as I _feel_! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Glancing at the statue._] Who's your friend? Nice +gent, isn't he? + + [_Laughing._ + +JINNY. Mr. Apollo! Would you like to meet him? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Hesitates._] Er--no--I don't think! You must draw the +line somewhere! He wouldn't do a thing to Corbett, would he? + +JINNY. Who was Corbett? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. He was a prize fighter, and _is_--but that's another +story-- Do you mean to say you've never heard of him? + +JINNY. Oh, the name sounds familiar. But this, you know, is Apollo. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. No, I don't know; was he a champion? + +JINNY. No, he was a Greek god! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, was he? Well, I wouldn't have cared about being in +the tailoring business in those days, would you? Let's sit down. [_They +sit on bench Right._] Of course you know we wouldn't accept a thing like +that in Peoria, where I come from, as a gift! No, indeed! If the King of +Italy sent it over to our Mayor, he'd return it C.O.D. + +JINNY. Sounds like Boston and the Macmonnies Bacchante! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, my dear, _worse_ than that! It reminds me of a man +at home who kept an underclothing store in our principal street and had +a plaster cast of this gent's brother, I should think, in his window to +show a suit of Jaegers on,--you know, a "combination"! And our Town +Committee of Thirteen for the moral improvement of Peoria made the man +take it out of his window and hang the suit up empty! + +JINNY. Poor man! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. You ought to see our Park!--you know we've got a +perfectly beautiful park,--and all the _men_ statues wear Prince +Alberts, and stand like this-- [_She poses with lifted arm at right +angle to body._] --as if they were saying, "This way out" or "To the +monkey cage and zoo." + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] But the women statues? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. My dear! They only have heads and hands; all the rest's +just clumps of drapery--we only have "Americans" and "Libertys," anyway. +They apply the Chinese emigration law to all Venuses and _sich ladies_! + + [_They both laugh._ + +JINNY. Where did you say Peter and Ruth were? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Well, I left Peter--who isn't at all well; I hoped this +trip would help his indigestion, but it seems to have made it worse!--I +left him--er--in a room with a lot of _broken-up Venuses_--I thought it +was all right; he was eating candy, and there wasn't a whole woman among +'em! + +JINNY. [_Slight strain in her voice._] How did you happen to bring over +Ruth Chester? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Well, you know I always liked her. She never snubbed me +in her life--I don't think any one you've introduced me to has been +quite so nice to Peter and me as Mrs. Chester and her daughter. + +JINNY. O they _are_ real people! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Ruth is terribly depressed over something. She's thin +as a rail and the family are worried. She says there's nothing worrying +her, and the doctors can't find anything the matter with her,--so Mrs. +Chester asked me if I wouldn't take her abroad. They thought the voyage +and change might do her good, and I seem to have a more cheery influence +over her than most people. So here we are! [_As PETER enters Left, +eating._] Here's Peter! How do you think the darling looks? + +PETER. How do you do, Mrs. Austin? + +JINNY. How do you do, Peter? [_They shake hands._] I'm sorry to hear you +are seedy, but you eat too many sweet things. + +PETER. I'm not eating candy; it's soda mints! [_Showing a small +bottle._] I _am_ bad to-day, mother. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. If you don't get better, we'll go to Carlsbad. + +JINNY. How do you like Rome, Peter? + +PETER. Oh, I don't know--too much Boston and not enough Chicago to make +it a real lively town. + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] I think I'll go look for Jack and tell him you've +turned up. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Perhaps he's found Ruth. + +JINNY. [_With a change in her voice._] Yes, perhaps. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +PETER. [_Going to the doorway Right, calls after her._] Ruth's in a room +on your left, with rows of men's heads on shelves, Emperors and +things,--but gee, such a _job lot_! + + [_Comes back and looks up at the statue._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Isn't it beautiful, Peter? + +PETER. No, it's _too big_! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Still this one isn't broken! + +PETER. That's a comfort! Yes, it has been mended, too! [_Examining._] +Oh, yes, it's only another of these second-hand statues. Say, you missed +one whole one, the best I've seen yet! A Venus off in a fine little +room, all mosaics and painted walls,--that's where I've been. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Why, Peter Cullingham! _Alone?_ What kind of a Venus? + +PETER. Oh, beautiful! I forgot to take my medicine! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Was she--er--_dressed_, darling? + +PETER. We--you know--she _had_ been, but she'd sort of pushed it a good +way off! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_With a sigh._] You know we _ought_ to admire these +things, Peter darling; that's partly what we've come to Europe for! + +PETER. O pshaw! here comes a gang of tourists. Come on, let's skip! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. But Ruth and Mrs. Austin? + +PETER. We didn't agree to wait, and we can all meet at our hotel. + + [_A crowd of TOURISTS, led by a GUIDE, presses and crowds in the + doorway. They drag their tired feet in a listless shuffle across the + room and stand in a somewhat sheepish and stupid bunch at the statue. + One or two of the younger women nudge each other and giggle. The GUIDE + stands a little in advance of them. The GUIDE describes the statue, + and while he is doing so PETER and MRS. CULLINGHAM go out Right. Most + of the TOURISTS turn and watch them go instead of looking at the + statue._ + +GUIDE. This is the Apollo Belvedere, discovered at the end of the +fifteenth century, some say in a Roman villa or farm-house near the +Grotter Terratter. Very fine specimen both as marble and man. This +statyer is calculated to make Sandow et cetery look like thirty cents. +Height seven feet, weight-- + +A MAN TOURIST. How much? + +A GIRL TOURIST. Was he married? + + [_Titters from the group._ + +GUIDE. Give it up! Should judge he was. The god once held a bow in his +left hand and probably a laurel wreath in his right. + +ANOTHER WOMAN TOURIST. A what? + +GUIDE. A laurel wreath. You want to take a good look at this, as it is a +very fine piece. Now come along, please--make haste; we must finish up +this place before feeding! + + [_He leads the way out Right, and the TOURISTS follow, shuffling + along, without speaking, MRS. LOPP and CARRIE lagging in the rear._ + + [_AUSTIN enters Left, followed by RUTH._ + +AUSTIN. This is where I left her with Apollo! [_Calls._] Jinny! She +seems to have gone! + + [_He looks behind the statue and out door, Right._ + +RUTH. Probably the Cullinghams, who were headed in this direction, found +her, and they've all gone back for us; you see I walked all around the +court first without going into the rooms, so I missed them, but found +you. + +AUSTIN. What shall we do? Sit down here and wait for them to come back, +or shall I go in search? + +RUTH. Oh, no, you might miss them, and then we'd all be lost! If you +left Jinny here, she's sure to come back to meet you. + + [_She sits on the bench and AUSTIN stands behind her._ + +AUSTIN. I'm sorry to learn you've been ill. + +RUTH. Oh! it's nothing. + +AUSTIN. Ah, I'm afraid it's a good deal. Will you forgive me if I say I +think I know what it is! + + [_She looks up startled._ + + [_After a moment._ + +You haven't forgotten the day of Jinny's and my wedding, when you told +me Geoffrey Tillman needed a friend? + +RUTH. I hoped _you'd_ forgotten; I oughtn't to have told you; I +_oughtn't_ to have! + +AUSTIN. Why not? I had a talk with Geoffrey, then, and he told me +everything. + +RUTH. He did! You are sure? + +AUSTIN. Sure. + + [_He sits beside her._ + +RUTH. That he and I-- + +AUSTIN. Love each other. + +RUTH. Oh, but that isn't all. + +AUSTIN. I know the rest! + +RUTH. He told you--about--about-- + +AUSTIN. The marriage?--Yes? + +RUTH. Oh, I'm so glad, so glad! Now I can speak of it to some one, and +some one who can advise me, and will help us. + +AUSTIN. I have already advised him, but he doesn't seem to be taking my +advice; it has worried me. + +RUTH. When I left he was awfully depressed. He said he saw no prospect +of being able to publish our marriage for years, maybe! + +AUSTIN. _What_ marriage? + + [_In astonishment._ + +RUTH. _Our_ marriage, in Brooklyn! [_She notices his expression and is +alarmed._] You said he had told you! + +AUSTIN. [_Recovering himself, and speaking at first with hesitation._] +Yes, but not the details, not--wait, I'm a little confused. [_Rising and +walking a moment._] Let's get it all quite clear now, that's the only +way I can help you--both; I ought, of course, to have gone through it +all with him, but there really wasn't time. + +RUTH. I can't go on like this much longer. It's killing me to deceive +mother; I _must_ tell her soon! + +AUSTIN. [_Quickly, stops walking._] No. You mustn't, not yet, if I'm +going to help you; you'll obey me, won't you? + +RUTH. Yes, if you only will help us! + +AUSTIN. You said you and Geoffrey Tillman were married where? + +RUTH. In Brooklyn. + +AUSTIN. When? + +RUTH. A month before your wedding. + +AUSTIN. [_To himself._] It's impossible! + + [_Walking up and down._ + +RUTH. [_Smiling sadly._] Oh, no! I remember the date only too well. + +AUSTIN. I didn't mean that. + +RUTH. I lied to my mother that day for the first time--at any rate, +since I was a child--and I've been lying to her ever since. + +AUSTIN. [_Probing her._] But--but why were you married so secretly? + +RUTH. We couldn't afford to marry and set up for ourselves. He expected +then to be sent off at once to the Philippines, and--well he didn't want +to leave me behind, free; I'm afraid he's rather jealous--you must have +found out by now that Jinny is. They all are! And _I_ didn't want him to +go so far off without my belonging to him either; _I'm_ that jealous, +too! [_Smiling._] So--that's why! + +AUSTIN. And this long period of secrecy since then--do you understand +that? + +Ruth. Hasn't he explained to you his debts? You know before he loved me +he was very fast, but since-- + +AUSTIN. Yes, I know how he gave up every one of his old habits with a +great deal of courage. + +RUTH. _Nobody_ knows what it cost him! How can you help us? Get him +something to do to pay off his debts? Or can't you make him feel even if +we do have to go on living at our different homes for a while, it is +better to publish the fact that we are married?-- + +AUSTIN. I shall go back at once to America if I can persuade Jinny! + +RUTH. And I, too? + +AUSTIN. No. You must stay abroad till I send word for you to come home. +If I am going to help you, you will help me by doing exactly as I say, +won't you? + +RUTH. Yes. + +AUSTIN. It's _very_ important that you should _absolutely obey me_! + +RUTH. _I will._ + + [_A pause._ + + [_JINNY, unnoticed by either of them, appears in the doorway at Right. + AUSTIN is walking up and down. RUTH is leaning her elbow on the back + of the bench and burying her face in her hands._ + +AUSTIN. It's awful! My God, it's awful! + +JINNY. [_In a strained, assumed, nonchalant tone._] _What is?_ + +RUTH. Jinny! + + [_Rising._ + +AUSTIN. I didn't hear you, Jinny! + +JINNY. No, you both seemed so absorbed. + +RUTH. [_Going to JINNY._] I'm so glad to see you. + + [_Kisses her, but JINNY only gives her her cheek and that rather + unwillingly; she is looking all the time at her husband._ + +JINNY. Thank you, I've just left the Cullinghams. They sent word to you +they were going and would wait for you outside. + +RUTH. Oh, then, I mustn't keep them waiting. We'll all meet at dinner +to-night, won't we? Good-by--good-by. + + [_With a grateful look at AUSTIN, she goes out Right._ + +JINNY. [_Watches her go; then turns to AUSTIN._] That wasn't true, what +I told her--I haven't seen the Cullinghams, and I don't know where they +are, and what's more, I don't care! + +AUSTIN. What do you mean? + +JINNY. [_Beginning by degrees to lose control of herself._] What did +_she_ mean by _following you_ to Rome? + +AUSTIN. Jinny! + +JINNY. Oh, don't try to deny it; that'll only make me suspect _you_! + +AUSTIN. My dear girl, you don't know what you're saying! + +JINNY. She's ill, they say at home! Yes, and they don't know what's the +matter with her, do they? No! But I can tell them! She's in love with +another woman's husband! + +AUSTIN. [_Taking her hand._] Hush! I won't allow you to say such things! + +JINNY. [_With a disagreeable little laugh._] Oh, won't you? _You'd_ +better be careful,--my eyes are opened! + +AUSTIN. Yes, and much too wide. + +JINNY. A half-blind person would have known there was something between +you two. When I came into this room just now, it was in the air--it was +in both your faces! + + [_She sits on the bench._ + +AUSTIN. You've worked yourself up to such a pitch you're not responsible +for what you're saying! + +JINNY. _I_ not _responsible_! What was it you were saying was _so_ +"awful" when I came in here? "My God, so awful!" + + [_He doesn't answer._ + + [_Almost hysterical, she rises._ + +She had told you she loved you! She'd confessed she'd followed you over +here! + +AUSTIN. Absolutely false, _both_ your suppositions! + +JINNY. Oh, of course you'd protect her; you're a gentleman! But if I +_thought_ you _knew_ she was coming over-- + +AUSTIN. Jinny! Jinny! How _can_ you have such a thought? + +JINNY. Well, why didn't you tell me when you thought you saw her a +little while ago? + +AUSTIN. Oh-- + +JINNY. Oh, it's very easy to say "Oh!" [_Imitating him._] but _why +didn't you_? + +AUSTIN. I told you I didn't think who it was; I only thought something +familiar flashed across my eyes. Jinny darling, this is sheer madness on +your part, letting yourself go like this. It has no reason, it has no +excuse! Ask your own heart, and your own mind, if in speaking to _me_ as +you have, you haven't done me at least an injustice and my love for you +a _little_ wrong. + +JINNY. Well, I'm sure _she's_ in love with you, anyway. + +AUSTIN. No, she isn't! And it's disgraceful of you to say so! I know she +isn't-- + +JINNY. How do you know she isn't? + +AUSTIN. There's no question of it. I'm sure of it! You mustn't think, +dear, that because _you_ love me, everybody does--you idealize me! + + [_Smiling apologetically._ + +JINNY. Oh, you're so modest you don't see! but I do--on the steamer, in +the hotels, everywhere we go, always, all the women admire you awfully! +I see it! + +AUSTIN. [_Laughing._] What utter nonsense! [_Taking her into his arms._] +You've got something in your _eyes_! + +JINNY. Only tears! + +AUSTIN. No, something else,--something _green_. + +JINNY. [_Laughs through her tears._] Somebody's told you my old +nickname! + +AUSTIN. What? + +JINNY. [_Laughs and is a little embarrassed._] The girl with the green +eyes. + +AUSTIN. Ahem!-- + +JINNY. Well, I don't care if it is appropriate, I can't help it. + + [_Slipping from his arms._ + +AUSTIN. You must--or it will threaten our happiness if you let yourself +be carried away by jealousy for no earthly reason outside of your dear, +little imagination, like you have this time-- + + [_Interrupted._ + +JINNY. You honestly don't think she cares for you? + +AUSTIN. Not a bit! + +JINNY. But what was it you were so serious about--what _is_ between you? + +AUSTIN. She is in a little trouble, and I happen to know about it. + +JINNY. How? + +AUSTIN. [_After a second's hesitation._] That you mustn't ask me; it was +not from her I knew of it. + +JINNY. Truly? + +AUSTIN. Truly. + +JINNY. I don't care, she hadn't any business to go to you! I should +think she'd have gone to a _woman_ instead of a _man_ for sympathy. +She's got Mrs. Cullingham! + +AUSTIN. She can't go to her, poor girl. Mrs. Cullingham knows nothing +about it. + +JINNY. Now don't you get too sympathetic--_that's very dangerous_! + +AUSTIN. Look out, your imagination is peeping through the keyhole. + + [_A moment's pause._ + +JINNY. [_In a sympathetic tone, the jealousy gone._] What is her +trouble, Jack? + +AUSTIN. That, dear, I can't tell you now; some day, perhaps, if you want +me to, but not now. Only I give you my word of honor, it has nothing to +do with you and me--does not touch our life! And I want you to tell me +you believe me, and _trust_ me, and won't let yourself be jealous again! + +JINNY. I do believe you, and I do trust you, and I will _try_ not to be +jealous again! + +AUSTIN. That's right. + +JINNY. You know that book of De Maupassant's [_They move away +together._] I was reading in the train the other day,--about the young +girl who killed herself with charcoal fumes when her lover deserted her? + +AUSTIN. [_Half laughing._] This is apropos of what, please? I have +absolutely _no_ sympathy with such people. + +JINNY. In America that girl would have simply turned on the gas. + +AUSTIN. You're getting morbid, Jinny! + +JINNY. No, I'm not! but if ever-- + +AUSTIN. [_Interrupting--laughing it off_.] I shall install _electric +light_ as soon as we get home! + + [_They both laugh._ + +JINNY. I'm sorry I was so disagreeable to Ruth, but I'll try to make up +for it in every way I can. + + [_She sits on the bench and he leans over the back toward her._ + +AUSTIN. There's one other thing, Jinny, I'd like to speak of now. Would +you mind giving up the Lakes and going home this week? + +JINNY. Going _home_--at once? + +AUSTIN. Yes--_Wall Street_ is very uncertain. I'm worried,--I don't mind +telling you,--and I want to see Geoffrey about his business. + +JINNY. [_Half in earnest._] Jack! You're not running away from _her_, +are you? + +AUSTIN. Jinny! _After all_ we've said! + +JINNY. No! I wasn't in earnest! I'm ready to go. I've seen the Lakes, +and whether you are in Italy or in New York, so long as we are together, +it's our honeymoon just the same. + +AUSTIN. And may it last _all our lives_! + +JINNY. Still, I don't mind owning up that leaving Ruth Chester behind +here is rather pleasanter! [_She rises quickly with a sudden thought._] +_She_ is not going back, too? + +AUSTIN. Oh, no, not for a long time. They are over here indefinitely. + +JINNY. I've been too horrid and nasty for words this morning, Jack--I'm +so sorry. + +AUSTIN. It's over and forgotten now. + +JINNY. You _do_ forgive me? + +AUSTIN. Of course, dear; only I want to say this one thing to you: to +suspect unjustly a _true_ love is to insult that love! + +JINNY. I didn't really suspect you. + +AUSTIN. Of course I know you didn't; this is only by way of a +grandfatherly warning! It is possible to insult a true love too +often--and love can die-- + +JINNY. Sh! don't, please, say any more. You have forgiven me, haven't +you? + +AUSTIN. Yes! + +JINNY. Then kiss me! + +AUSTIN. [_Smiling._] Here! My dear, some one will see us! + +JINNY. No, only Apollo; see, there's no one else about--it's luncheon +hour! + +AUSTIN. But-- + + [_Taking her hand._ + +JINNY. [_Pulling him._] Come along, then, behind the statue. No one will +see us there! + + [_They are behind the statue a moment and then come around the other + side._ + +JINNY. There! no one saw us, and I'm so _happy_, are you? + +AUSTIN. _"So happy!"_ + + [_JINNY takes his arm and they go to the Left entrance. She stops and + looks up at him._ + +JINNY. Are my eyes _green_ now? + +AUSTIN. Now they're _blue_! + +JINNY. Hurrah! and I'm going, from now on, to be _so good_, you won't +know me. + + [_And hugging his arm tight they go out as_-- + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + + +ACT III + +(_Three weeks later_) + + +_The Austins' library; a warm, attractive room, with dark woodwork, and + the walls hung in crimson brocade; Dutch marqueterie furniture; blue + and white china on the mantel and tops of the book shelves; carbon + photographs of pictures by Reynolds, Ronney, and Gainsborough on the + wall. There is a double window at the back. A door at Right leads to + the hall, and another on the Left side of the room leads to JINNY's + own room. MRS. TILLMAN sits at a pianola Right, playing "Tell me, + Pretty Maiden"; she stops once in a while, showing that she is + unaccustomed to the instrument. JINNY enters from Left, singing as + her mother plays._ + +JINNY. Darling mother! + + [_She puts her arms about her and kisses her._ + + [_They come away from the pianola together, to a big arm-chair._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. I really must get one of those sewing-machine pianos for +your father. I believe even he could play it, and it would be lots of +amusement for us. + +JINNY. Jack adores it; I gave it to him for an anniversary present. + +MRS. TILLMAN. What anniversary? + + [_Sitting in the chair._ + +JINNY. Day before yesterday. The eleventh Tuesday since our marriage. +Have you been in town all day? I _am_ glad to see you! + + [_She sits on the arm of the chair with her arm about her mother._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, and I told your father to meet me here and we'd take +the six-thirty train from Long Island City. + +JINNY. Jack and I are going to the theatre to-night. + +MRS. TILLMAN. I thought they were all closed! + +JINNY. Oh, no, there are several musical comedies on,--Jack's favorite +form of amusement,--and I've bought the tickets myself for a sort of +birthday party. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Is it his birthday? + +JINNY. No, that's only my excuse! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Laughing._] Had we dreamed you and Jack were coming home +in June, your father and I wouldn't have gone into the country so early. + +JINNY. We've been home two weeks and it hasn't been hot yet. + +MRS. TILLMAN. And you're still ideally happy aren't you, darling? + +JINNY. Yes-- + + [_She rises and goes to a table near the centre of the room and looks + at the titles of several books without realizing what they are._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why, Jinny,--what does that mean? + +JINNY. Oh, it's all my horrid disposition! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Been seeing green? + +JINNY. Um! Um! Once in Rome, and on the steamer, and again since we've +been back. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Nothing serious? + +JINNY. [_Hesitatingly, she turns and faces her mother._] No--but the +last time Jack was harder to bring around than before, and he looked at +me for fully five minutes without a particle of love in his eyes, and +they were almost--_dead_ eyes! + +MRS. TILLMAN. What was it all about? + +JINNY. Ruth Chester, principally. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why Ruth? + +JINNY. Well, the first real scene I made was in Rome in the Vatican. I +was jealous of her; I can't explain it all to you--as a matter of fact, +it hasn't been all explained to _me_! Something was troubling Ruth that +Jack knew, and he said he'd help her. + +MRS. TILLMAN. What? + +JINNY. That's just it; Jack won't tell me. And the day we sailed from +Naples a telegram came, and of course I opened it, and it said, "Trust +me, I will do everything you say. Ruth." + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why haven't you told me anything of all this before, dear? + +JINNY. [_Going back to her mother._] I was ashamed to! Somehow, in the +end I always knew I was wrong and had hurt him--hurt him terribly, +mother, the man I love better than everything else in the world! Yes, +even better than you and father and Geoffrey--all together! + + [_In her mother's arms, crying a little._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. Oh, this curse of jealousy! I was in hopes he was so +strong he would help you to overcome it. + +JINNY. He does try hard, I can see sometimes; but he hasn't a spark of +it in him, and he can't understand it, and I know I'm unreasonable, and +before I know it I am saying things I don't know what, and some day he +won't forgive them! I'm sure some day he won't!-- + + [_Breaking down again._ + + [_She rises and turns away._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Rising and putting her arms about her._] Come, dear! Now +you're getting yourself all unstrung, and that won't do you any good; +you've got to fight this battle out, I'm afraid, by yourself, trusting +in the deep love of your husband to teach him forbearance. Your father's +and my troubles were never very big because we _shared_ the curse, so we +knew how to sympathize with each other! + +JINNY. What an awful thing it is! + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, my dear child. Jealousy has no saving grace, and it +only destroys what is always most precious to you. Jinny, don't let it +destroy _your best_ happiness! + +JINNY. Mother, if it _should_, I'd kill myself! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Shocked, but quite disbelieving her._] My dear! + + [_MAGGIE enters Right._ + +MAGGIE. Mr. Tillman is downstairs, madam. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Tell him to come up. + +MAGGIE. Yes, madam. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +JINNY. Don't tell father anything before me. + +MRS. TILLMAN. I don't know that I shall tell him at all; he would only +advise more cigars! + + [_TILLMAN enters Right._ + + [_MRS. TILLMAN sits on the sofa at Left._ + +TILLMAN. Are you here? + +JINNY. [_Going to meet him._] We are, father dear, and your presence +_almost_ completes us. [_Kisses him._] I say _almost_, because Jack +hasn't come up town yet, and Geoffrey's heartless enough to stay on +fishing at Cape Cod! + +TILLMAN. No, he isn't; he's back to-day. + + [_He sits in the arm-chair at Right._ + +JINNY. Oh, I do want to see him! + + [_Sitting near her father._ + +TILLMAN. He ought to have been in by now--I met them this morning. He +was to lunch with Jack, and he's going to put up for a few days at the +University. + +JINNY. He must dine with us every night. + +TILLMAN. Jinny!-- [_Looking at her._] --You look as if you've been +crying! + + [_The two WOMEN are embarrassed, and JINNY doesn't reply._ + +TILLMAN. [_Hurt._] Oh, if you prefer to have secrets from your father, +it's all right! _I don't begrudge_ your mother her _first place_ in your +affections! + +JINNY. Not at all, father; with you and mother there's no first place. +She will tell you all about it on the way home! Please, mother. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Very well, dear. + +TILLMAN. A little "scrap" between you and Jack? + +JINNY. Yes, but it's all over! + +TILLMAN. Um!-- [_Thinks a second, then taking out his cigar case, he +empties it of cigars and hands them to JINNY._] Give your husband these, +please, when he comes in! + + [_JINNY and her MOTHER exchange a smile._ + +JINNY. But, father, Jack's got boxes full-- + +TILLMAN. Never mind; give him those, _from me, with my compliments_! + +JINNY. [_Laughing._] Very well! + +TILLMAN. How are you and Maggie getting on? + +JINNY. Splendidly. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Such a nice girl! + +JINNY. And wasn't it odd Jack was bitterly opposed to my taking her? + +MRS. TILLMAN. My dear, if we hadn't lent her to you for these few weeks, +you wouldn't have got anybody decent for so short a time. + +TILLMAN. Why didn't Jack want her to come? + +JINNY. I don't know, he just didn't want her; and then last week he +talked with her in the library for three-quarters of an hour by my +watch. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Why? + +JINNY. Oh, it seems _she_ has troubles, too! All single young women with +troubles, of no matter what class, seem to make a bee line for my +husband, even if they have to cross the ocean! + +TILLMAN. What do you mean? + +JINNY. [_Half laughing._] Oh, nothing, but it was about that talk with +Maggie that we had our last quarrel. + + [_MAGGIE enters Right._ + +MAGGIE. Mrs. Cullingham. + + [_A second's dead silence, the announcement falling like a bombshell._ + +JINNY. [_Astounded._] _Who?_ + + [_She rises._ + +TILLMAN AND MRS. TILLMAN. _Who?_ + +MAGGIE. Mrs. Cullingham and her son, madam. + +JINNY. They're in Europe. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Are you sure you're not mistaken, Maggie? + +MAGGIE. Oh, yes'm. Even if you _could_ mistake Mrs. Cullingham, you +couldn't mistake Mr. Peter! + +JINNY. Ask them to please come up, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes'm. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +TILLMAN. Why, they only just sailed the other day, didn't they? + +MRS. TILLMAN. Yes, and they were supposed to be gone all summer at +least, for Ruth Chester's health! What in the world can they have come +back for? + +JINNY. [_With curious determination._] _That_ is what _I_ intend to find +out. + +TILLMAN. [_Rising._] We must be going, Susan; we've lost our train as it +is. + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Rising._] We can take the seven-two. + + [_MAGGIE shows in MRS. CULLINGHAM and PETER. PETER shakes hands with + MRS. TILLMAN, then with JINNY, and then with MR. TILLMAN._ + + [_MRS. CULLINGHAM kisses MRS. TILLMAN and shakes hands with MR. + TILLMAN._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Jinny, you angel, aren't you surprised! + + [_Kissing her._ + +JINNY. Well, rather! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Well, you aren't a bit more surprised than I am. [_A +clock strikes six-thirty._] There goes the half hour, Peter; you must +take your powder. + +PETER. I beg your pardon, mother; it's the tablet now. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Excuse me, dear, I'm so dead tired. + + [_Sits on the sofa._ + +JINNY. [_To Peter._] Will you have some water? + +PETER. No, thank you, I've learned now to take them _au naturel_, and +without much, if any, inconvenience! + + [_Takes his tablet with still a certain amount of difficulty, and sits + Right._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_To MRS. CULLINGHAM._] Did you have a bad voyage? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. No, perfectly beautiful! + +PETER. [_Reproachfully, and with a final swallow._] Oh, mother! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Except, of course, for poor Peter; he gets worse every +trip! He can eat _absolutely nothing_--that is _for long_! But it's the +Custom House that's worn me out; I was there from twelve till four. + +MRS. TILLMAN. But you wouldn't have had time to buy anything! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Of course not! But I took plenty of new dresses for the +entire summer; most of them hadn't been worn, and they were determined +to make me pay duty. + +JINNY. We had to pay awfully for things! I wanted to try and smuggle, +but Jack wouldn't let me! + +MR. TILLMAN. I'm afraid _we_ must go! + + [_ALL rise._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. What do you think the Inspector had the impudence to +ask me finally,--if I wanted to bring the dresses in as theatrical +properties! + + [_They laugh._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. You must have some _gorgeous_ frocks! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, there are some _paillettes_! But who do you suppose +he took me for--Sarah Bernhardt! + +TILLMAN. [_Looking at his watch._] I don't wish to interrupt this vital +political conversation, but, Susan, if you don't want to miss the +seven-two train, too--! + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_Rising._] Oh, no, we mustn't do that. Good-by. [_To MRS. +CULLINGHAM, shaking hands._] It's nice to see you again, anyway. Is Ruth +better? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I'm sorry to say--I don't think she is--good-by. + + [_To MR. TILLMAN, who says good-by_--_general good-bys._ + +MRS. TILLMAN. [_To JINNY._] You want me to tell your father? + +JINNY. Yes, it's better; it does make him jealous if he thinks I tell +you things and keep secrets from him. + +TILLMAN. Good-by, Peter. + +MRS. TILLMAN. Good-by, Peter. + +PETER. By-by. + + [_MR. and MRS. TILLMAN quickly go out Right, JINNY going to the door + with them._ + +JINNY. [_Coming back from doorway._] Now do tell me what it means. I +thought you were abroad indefinitely, or for the summer at least. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. So did I! I'm just as surprised to be here as you _seem +to be_! [_They sit down near each other._] Didn't you really know we +were coming? + +JINNY. No! How should I? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I don't know--I thought-- + + [_She hesitates, embarrassed._ + + [_After a pause._ + +JINNY. What did you think? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Nothing, except that you must know we were coming home. + +JINNY. Why--that _I_ must? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. You mustn't put me into a corner like that! + +JINNY. How do you mean "corner"? How did you happen to come home like +this? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Ruth suddenly got a cable--she didn't tell me from +whom--but she said she must go home at once. + +JINNY. But her mother's never been better! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Carelessly._] The cable wasn't from her mother. + +JINNY. Oh, then, you know who it was from? [_No answer._] Oh, I see now +why you thought I ought to know about it; the cable was from _Jack_, +_wasn't it_? + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Relieved._] Yes. + +JINNY. Oh, it was! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I looked at it when she was out of the room; of course, +it was sort of by accident-- [_Very much embarrassed._] --that is, +I just happened to see--O dear, there! You know what I mean; it was +dreadful of me, but I couldn't help it. + +JINNY. [_In a strained voice._] Jack and Ruth are very good friends and +he looks after some of her affairs. You know having no man in the family +complicates things. + +PETER. Oh! I say! + + [_Standing up, suddenly._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. What _is it_, dear? + +PETER. I believe I haven't got my before-dinner tabs. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Oh, look carefully! + +PETER. [_He looks in his right-hand pocket, takes out a bottle._] Soda +mints! [_From his left-hand pocket a box._] Alkali powders! [_From third +pocket a bottle._] Charcoal tablets! [_From fourth pocket another +bottle._] Dr. Man's Positive Cure! [_From fifth pocket a box._] +Bicarbonate soda! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. There's your other side pocket! + +PETER. That's my saccharine [_Showing bottle._] and my lithia tabs. +[_Showing another bottle._] We'll have to go, mother; I've left them +home! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. We must go, anyway, my dear. + + [_Rising._ + + [_JINNY also rises._ + +PETER. [_Suddenly claps his hand behind him and speaks joyfully._] No, +we needn't go after all; I forgot my hip pocket. Here they are! + + [_Bringing them out._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. We must go all the same! [_To JINNY._] Sometimes I +think he takes too much medicine stuff! + +JINNY. I should think so! Peter, you ought to diet. + +PETER. I can't! I've tried, and I lose my appetite right away! + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Good-by, dear. How long will you be in town? + +JINNY. I don't know--several weeks, I imagine. Jack came home on some +business, you know, and I don't think it's settled yet. Good-by. + + [_To PETER._ + +PETER. Good-by. You know you mustn't drink water with your meals; that's +the great thing. So I drink only champagne. + + [_He goes out Right._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. [_Waits and speaks to JINNY with real feeling._] I'm +awfully ashamed of myself, and I hope I haven't made any trouble or fuss +with my meddling. Don't let me! + +JINNY. No, of course not. + + [_With a strained smile._ + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. I wish I could believe you. + +JINNY. Well, _do_. + +MRS. CULLINGHAM. Good-by. + + [_She goes out Right._ + +JINNY. Good-by. Where's that telegram that came for him a little while +ago? [_Going to the desk at Right, and finding the telegram._] Of course +it's from her, saying that she's arrived. That's the trouble with +telegrams; the address doesn't give the handwriting away. She must have +sent it from the dock! Couldn't even wait till she was home! [_She walks +to the window and stands there a moment, then comes back, looking at her +watch._] Nearly seven already, and no sign of him, and we must dress and +dine--huh! I think I might as well tear up my theatre tickets! [_She +paces up and down the room, stopping now and then with each new thought +that comes to her._] I wonder if he went down there to meet her--he must +have known the boat; if he cabled her to come back, she must have cabled +an answer and what boat she'd take! But no other telegram has come for +Jack here to my knowledge--oh! of course, what am I thinking of, she +sent _that one_ to _his office_ to-day; she was afraid he might have +left before this one could get there, so she risked it here. Good +Heavens! why am I maudling on like this to myself out loud? It's really +nothing--Jack will _explain_ once more that he _can't_ explain, but that +Ruth has "troubles," and I'll believe him again! But I won't! He +promised me she should stay over there! [_Looks at her watch again._] +He's there, with her! _Nothing ever_ kept him half as late down town as +this! What a little fool I am! + + [_GEOFFREY enters suddenly Right._ + +JINNY. [_Cries out, joyfully._] Geoffrey! [_And rushing to him, embraces +him._] You brute, you, not to come straight back to New York when you +heard I was home! You dear old darling, you! + +GEOFFREY. I couldn't, old girl; there were reasons--I don't have to tell +you I wanted to. + +JINNY. I don't know! Was there a pretty girl up there, Geof? I'm sure I +shouldn't think her pretty if you were in love with her. I believe I +shall be awfully jealous of your wife when you get one! + +GEOFFREY. Rubbish! Hasn't Jack come back yet? + +JINNY. "Come back" from where? + +GEOFFREY. Brooklyn. + +JINNY. Brooklyn! Why, he told me--what did he go there for? + +GEOFFREY. [_Embarrassed._] I don't know if you don't-- + +JINNY. You _do_!! + +GEOFFREY. No--really--I-- + +JINNY. Oh, it's something to be concealed, then? + +GEOFFREY. Hang it, Jinny! drop the subject. I thought he said he was +going to Brooklyn; probably I was mistaken. + +JINNY. [_Satirically._] One is so apt to think just casually that every +one's going to Brooklyn! [_Looks at her watch._] Of course it's +Brooklyn. [_Goes and looks at the telegram; turns._] So you're going +back on _me_, too, are you? You're going to _protect Jack_ at _my_ +expense! + + [_AUSTIN enters Right._ + +AUSTIN. [_Absorbed._] Good evening, Jinny dear. + +JINNY. It's after seven! + +AUSTIN. [_Pleasantly._] Is it? Have you been waiting long, Geoffrey? + +GEOFFREY. No, I've only just now come in. + +JINNY. It's _I_ who have done the waiting! + +AUSTIN. I'm sorry, but it couldn't be helped. + +JINNY. You didn't tell me you were going to Brooklyn. + +AUSTIN. [_After a quick, sharp look at Geoffrey, who shakes his head +once emphatically._] It must have escaped my mind. + +JINNY. That's very likely! Going to Brooklyn's the sort of thing one +talks about and dreads for days. + +AUSTIN. Well, Jinny, that will bear postponement, and my conversation +with Geoffrey won't; will you please leave us together here for a while? + +JINNY. And what about the theatre? + +AUSTIN. What theatre? + +JINNY. Oh, you've _forgotten_ entirely my little birthday party! Thanks! + +AUSTIN. Oh, Jinny! I _did_! Forgive me! I'm awfully sorry! I've got a +lot on my mind to-day. + + [_Tries to put his arms about her and kiss her. She pushes herself + away from him, refusing to let him kiss her._ + +JINNY. Yes--I know you have-- [_At door Left._] --I'll leave you two to +your confidences. You can trust Geof; he just now refused to betray you. + + [_AUSTIN only looks at her fixedly, seriously. She looks back at him + with bravado. Then she deliberately crosses the room, gets the cable, + and recrosses with it and goes out Left._ + +AUSTIN. Poor Jinny! [_Turning to GEOFFREY._] and that, too, lies largely +on your already overcrowded shoulders. + +GEOFFREY. [_Breaking down._] I know! I know! + +AUSTIN. [_Sitting in the corner of the sofa._] Here, don't cry! You've +got to be strong now, and you've no use nor time for crying. I've had +another long interview with the Brooklyn minister. + +GEOFFREY. Yes?-- + +AUSTIN. [_Drawing a chair near to him and sitting._] Well, of course we +both know that he's doing wrong to keep silent, but he will. He wishes I +hadn't told him, because he thinks he'd never have noticed your divorce +from Maggie when it was granted--nor remembered your name if he had seen +it in the papers. + +GEOFFREY. That's what I _told_ you! + +AUSTIN. _You_ only argued that for fear I'd insist on _your_ going to +this minister yourself. But in the bottom of your heart you know it was +a risk we couldn't afford to run. I've explained everything to him--how +such a fine, sweet girl would suffer if he did expose you, and I gave +him my word you would be remarried to Ruth at once after the divorce. Of +course we both know it's wrong, but we both hope the end justifies the +means that removes difficulty number two. + +GEOFFREY. You're sure about Maggie? + +AUSTIN. She's signed a paper; she realizes you'll never live with her, +and--it's pathetic--she loves you--that girl, too--so much as to give +you your freedom--Good Lord! what is it about you weak men that wins +women so? What is it in _you_ that has made two women love _you_ to such +a self-sacrificing extent? + +GEOFFREY. [_Half tragic, half comic laugh._] I give it up! + +AUSTIN. [_Bitterly._] So do I. Well, Maggie is to have six hundred +dollars a year. + +GEOFFREY. Where'll I get it? + +AUSTIN. We'll talk about that when the time comes. [_He rises._] _Now_ +the most important, the most painful, task of all must be done and _you_ +must do it. _Not I this time--you!_ + +GEOFFREY. [_Looking up, frightened._] What? + +AUSTIN. Ruth Chester landed this morning. + +GEOFFREY. [_Starting up._] Impossible! + + [_Rising._ + +AUSTIN. The moment Maggie signed my paper I cabled Miss Chester to +return. You can't go out west and institute proceedings for divorce +without her _knowing the whole truth from you_ first! You don't want her +to find it out from the newspapers, do you? + +GEOFFREY. And you want _me_ to tell her? + +AUSTIN. _To-day._ And to-morrow you start west! + +GEOFFREY. [_Facing AUSTIN._] I _won't_ tell her! + +AUSTIN. [_Calmly._] You've got to! + +Geoffrey. I'd rather shoot myself; do you understand me--I'd rather +shoot myself! + +AUSTIN. That's nothing! That would be decidedly the _easiest_ course out +of it, _and_ the most _cowardly_. + +GEOFFREY. She'll hate me! She'll loathe me! How could she help it at +first! But just after a little, if I weren't there, the love she has for +me might move her somehow or other--and by degrees perhaps--to forgive-- + +AUSTIN. I don't deny that you will have to go through a terrible +degradation with her--but that is nothing compared with what you +deserve. If _you_ tell her, at least the humiliation is secret, locked +there between you two, and no one else in the world can ever know what +happens; _but_ if you send some one else, and no matter who,--_any one_ +else but you _is_ an outsider,--you ask her to make a spectacle of her +humiliation, to let a third in as witness to the relations and emotions +between you two! It's insulting her _again_! Don't you _see_? + + [_A pause._ + +GEOFFREY. Yes, I see! My God! I _must_ tell her myself. + +AUSTIN. That's right, don't waver, make up your mind and do it--Come! + + [_Urging him up._ + +GEOFFREY. [_Hesitates a moment._] And Jinny? + +AUSTIN. Oh, she'll come round all right; she always does. + +GEOFFREY. And she doesn't suspect? + +AUSTIN. Not the slightest. + + [_A pause._ + +GEOFFREY. Need she? + +AUSTIN. The worst? No, _never_! + +GEOFFREY. [_He rises, with new encouragement._] You'll give me your +word? + +AUSTIN. Yes. [_Shakes his hand._] I know how much she loves you; _I_ +wouldn't have her know anything. It's made us some ugly scenes, but they +soon pass, and when you are once out of your trouble for good, we'll +have no excuse, I'm sure, for any more! + +GEOFFREY. Then I shall go to bed to-night with the respect still of at +least two women who are dear to me, my mother and Jinny, even if I lose +the respect and love of the one woman who is dearer! Only think, Jack, +how I've got to stand up there--never mind about myself--and make _her +suffer tortures_! Good-by. God give me courage to do the heart-breaking +thing I must do. + +AUSTIN. I am sure the one hope you have of forgiveness is in your +manliness of going to her as you are doing and telling her yourself +_all_ the truth! + +GEOFFREY. And that, like everything else, I owe to you. + +AUSTIN. No, to _Jinny_! Good luck! + + [_He shakes GEOFFREY'S hand and GEOFFREY goes out Right._ + +AUSTIN. [_Goes to the door Left, opens it, and calls to JINNY, in the +next room._] Jinny, Geoffrey's gone,--what are you doing? + +JINNY. [_Answers in a very little staccato voice._] Waiting till you +should have the leisure to receive me! + +AUSTIN. Come along! + + [_Leaves the doorway._ + + [_JINNY enters Left and stands in the doorway._ + +JINNY. [_With affected nonchalance._] I didn't care to go downstairs for +dinner, so I have had a tray up here. Maggie brought up something for +you, too; would you like it now? + +AUSTIN. [_Ignoring purposely her mood and manner._] I shouldn't mind! I +do feel a little hungry. + + [_He sits in the arm-chair._ + +JINNY. [_Speaks off through the doorway Left._] Bring in the tray for +Mr. Austin, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. [_Off stage._] Yes'm. + + [_JINNY pulls forward a little tea table beside his chair. Her whole + manner must be one of slow, dragging carelessness, like the calm + before a storm. Her expression must be hard. She carries the telegram + still unopened, and on top of it the theatre tickets torn into + pieces._ + + [_MAGGIE brings in the tray, puts it on the table, and goes out Right. + On the tray are chops, peas, some whiskey, a syphon, a roll, etc._ + +AUSTIN. [_Sits down quickly and with a show of eagerness._] Ah! + + [_Begins to eat as if he were hungry and enjoyed it._ + + [_JINNY sits on the sofa at his Left, and looks at him,--AUSTIN is of + course conscious of JINNY'S mood, but pretends not to notice it._ + +AUSTIN. [_After a silence during which he eats._] I say I _am_ hungry! +And these chops _are_ very good, aren't they? + + [_No answer._ + +I'll tell you what it is, Jinny! Of course travelling is great sport and +all the rest of it, but after all one does get tired of hotels, and to +quote a somewhat familiar refrain, "There's no place like home." + + [_No answer._ + +Have you a headache, Jinny? + +JINNY. [_Very short._] No. + +AUSTIN. That's a good thing, and I hope you are not as disappointed as I +am about the theatre. + +JINNY. [_Half laughs._] Humph! + +AUSTIN. I'll celebrate _your_ birthday to-morrow and take _you_. + +JINNY. [_Quickly._] _Why_ did you go to Brooklyn? + +AUSTIN. On the private business of some one else. + +JINNY. [_With all her nerves tied tight._] That's the best answer you +will give me? + +AUSTIN. My dear girl, it's the only answer I _can_ give you. + +JINNY. When you are through I have something for you! + +AUSTIN. What? + +JINNY. I'll give it to you when you have finished. + +AUSTIN. I'm ready. [_He rises. JINNY rises too, and gives him the +telegram with the torn tickets on top, and then rings the bell, at +Right._] What are these torn papers? + +JINNY. Our theatre tickets! + + [_He looks at her._ + +AUSTIN. And when did this telegram come? + +JINNY. This afternoon. + +AUSTIN. Why didn't I get it when I came in? + +JINNY. [_Bitingly._] I kept it to have the _pleasure_ of giving it to +you myself; it's from Ruth Chester. + +AUSTIN. How do you know? + +JINNY. Oh, I haven't opened it! But I know! When I held it in my hand it +burnt my fingers! [_MAGGIE enters Right._] Take away the tray, please, +Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes'm. + + [_She leaves the room with the tray._ + + [_JINNY replaces the small table carelessly, almost roughly._ + + [_AUSTIN opens and reads the telegram; there is a second's pause._ + +JINNY. May I read it? + +AUSTIN. [_After a moment's hesitation._] Yes, if you wish. + + [_Not handing it to her._ + +JINNY. I _do_! + +AUSTIN. [_Reaches over and hands her the telegram; he speaks quietly._] +When you behave like this it's impossible for me to feel the same toward +you. + +JINNY. And how do you think I feel when I read this? + + [_Reads it, satirically, bitterly._ + +"Arrived safely; please let me see you before the day goes. Ruth." +"_Ruth_" if you please! + +AUSTIN. [_Standing over JINNY._] I want you to be careful to-night. I +want you to control yourself. I've been through a great deal to-day, and +if you make me angry God knows what I mightn't say and _do_! + +JINNY. And _I've_ been through a great deal _for many a day now_, and I +want the truth about this at last! It's all very well for you to spare +her by not telling me what this _mysterious_ trouble is about which +you've been hoodwinking me ever since we were married, but _now_ you've +got to choose between sparing _her_ and sparing _me_! + + [_She sits determinedly._ + +AUSTIN. Is this your answer to me when I beg you to be very careful +to-night to control yourself? + +JINNY. It's your turn to be careful! What did you marry me for if you +were in love with Ruth? + +AUSTIN. _Jinny!_ + +JINNY. [_A little frightened, to excuse herself._] You gave me your word +of honor she would stay abroad indefinitely. + +AUSTIN. Nonsense! I said I understood she was going to stay some +time--indefinitely. + +JINNY. It's the same thing, and here she is back practically the moment +we are! + +AUSTIN. I can't control Miss Chester's movements--I couldn't foresee +when she would come back. In Rome she told me she would stay on. + +JINNY. [_Rising and facing him._] Ah! that's what I wanted to see, if +you really _would lie_ to me! + +AUSTIN. What do you mean? + +JINNY. [_Beside herself._] Liar! [_He only looks at her, with his face +hard and set; she is insane with jealousy for the moment._] _You sent_ +for Ruth to come back. + +AUSTIN. _And_ if _I did_? + +JINNY. You tried to deceive me about it. And if you'll tell me a lie +about one thing, you'll tell me a lie about another, and I don't believe +one word of all your explanations about the intrigue between you and +Ruth Chester! + +AUSTIN. [_Taking her two hands._] Sit down! + + [_She sits in the arm-chair, half forced by him._ + +JINNY. _Why_ did you send for Ruth Chester to come back? + +AUSTIN. I have told you before, I am trying to help Miss Chester. + +JINNY. "_Ruth!_" + +AUSTIN. I am trying to help her in a great and serious trouble. + +JINNY. Why did you send for her to come back? What's the trouble? + +AUSTIN. I've told you before I can't tell you. + +JINNY. You daren't tell me, and you haven't even the face to tell +another lie about it! + +AUSTIN. If you say another word, I shall _hate_ you! If you _won't_ +control _yourself_, I must make you, as well as keep my own sane +balance. You have insulted my love for you to-night as you've never done +before; you've struck at my own ideal of _you_; you've almost done, in a +word, what I warned you you might do--_kill_ the love I have for you! + +JINNY. [_Frightened._] Jack! + +AUSTIN. I mean what I say! + +JINNY. [_In tears._] That--that you--you don't love me? + +AUSTIN. That is not what I said, but I tell you now that since I first +began to care for you, never have I loved you so little as I do +to-night. + +JINNY. [_With an effort at angry justification._] And suppose I tell you +it is your own fault, because you haven't treated me-- + +AUSTIN. [_Interrupting her._] Like a _child_, instead of a _woman_! + +JINNY. No, because you've kept part of yourself from me, and that part +you've given-- + +AUSTIN. For God's sake, stop! [_A pause--JINNY is now thoroughly +frightened; slowly she comes to her senses._] Do you _want_ a rupture +for good between us? [_No answer._] Can't you see what I tell you is +true? That I can't bear any more to-night? That if you keep on you will +rob _me_ of every bit of love I have for you, just as you've already +robbed me of the woman I thought you were? + +JINNY. "Already!" No, no, Jack, don't say that. Oh, what have I done! + + [_She cries._ + +AUSTIN. You've done something very serious, and before you do +more-- [_Speaking hardly._] --I think we'd better not stay in this +evening; it would be wiser for both of us if we went out somewhere. + +JINNY. No, I couldn't go out feeling this way! I've hurt you, hurt you +terribly! Oh, why do I do it? Why can't I help myself? + +AUSTIN. I think one more scene to-night would finish things for us. I +_warn_ you of that, Jinny-- + + [_He goes to the desk and sits at it, looking blankly before him. She + comes slowly, almost timidly, behind his chair._ + +JINNY. No, don't say it! don't say it! Try to forgive me--oh, Jack, I +hate myself, and I'm so ashamed of myself! I know I've disappointed you +awfully, awfully! You _did_ idealize me; I knew it when you married me, +but I told you then I wasn't worth your loving me, didn't I? I never +pretended to be worthy of you. I always knew I wasn't. + +AUSTIN. Hush! + +JINNY. It's true! it's only too awfully true. But do you remember how +you answered me then when I told you I wasn't worth your loving me? + +AUSTIN. [_Coldly and without looking at her._] No. + +JINNY. You took me in your arms and held me so I couldn't have got away +if I'd wanted to--which I didn't--and stopped the words on my lips with +your _kisses_. [_Her throat fills. He makes no reply. She goes on very +pathetically._] _How I wish_ you'd answer me that way now! + +AUSTIN. Whose fault is it? + +JINNY. Oh, mine! _mine_! I know it. _You_ don't know it one-half so well +as I! I love you better than anything in the world, love everything of +you--the turn of your head, the blessed touch of your hand, the smallest +word that comes from your dear lips--the thoughts that your forehead +hides, but which my heart guesses when I'm sane! And yet, try as hard as +I can, these mad fits take hold of me, and although I'd willingly _die_ +to save you _pain_, still _I_, _I_ myself, hurt and wound you past all +bearing! It doesn't make any difference that _I_ suffer too! _I ought_ +to! I deserve to--you _don't_! Oh, no! I know I'm a disappointment and a +failure! + + [_Her eyes fill up with tears and her voice breaks._ + +AUSTIN. [_He turns to her._] No, Jinny, not so bad as that, only I +thought you were _big_--and you're _so little_, oh, _so small_! + +JINNY. Yes, it's true; I'm small--I'm _small_! Oh, I'd like to be big, +too! I want to be noble and strong, but I'm not--I'm as weak as +water--only it's _boiling_ water! I want to be Brunhilde, and I'm only +Frou Frou! Yes, I'm little; but I _love_ you--_I love you!_ + + [_She sinks on to a stool beside him. A moment's pause._ + + [_With a trembling voice._ + +You don't mind my sitting here? + +AUSTIN. No-- + + [_Very quietly, he places his arm about her neck, his hand on her + shoulder. She quickly steals up her hand to take his, and leaning + her head over it, kisses his hand. He draws it away and kisses her + hair._ + +JINNY. [_Timidly, very softly._] You forgive me? + +AUSTIN. [_With a long sigh._] Yes. + +JINNY. [_Bursting into tears and burying her face upon his knees._] +Thank you--thank you--I know I don't deserve it--I don't deserve it--I +don't deserve it! + +AUSTIN. [_Softly._] Sh!-- + + [_JINNY half turns and looks up at him._ + +JINNY. [_Very, very quietly._] You forgive me--but still--yes, I see it +in your face, you don't love me the same. You look so tired, dear. + +AUSTIN. [_Also very quietly._] I am, Jinny. + +JINNY. And--happy? + +AUSTIN. I'm _not_ quite happy. + +JINNY. I wish I could make you so--make you love me the old way. You +used to smile a little when you looked at me--Jack, you don't any more. +But I mean to make you to-night, if I can, and to make you love me as +much as ever you did. + +AUSTIN. Good luck, dear. + +JINNY. [_Brightening._] What time is it? + +AUSTIN. [_Looking at his watch._] Nearly nine. + +JINNY. I suppose it is too late for me to dress and for us to go to the +theatre? + +AUSTIN. Oh, yes,--and I'm too tired. + +JINNY. [_Triumphantly._] Well, then, you shall have your theatre at +home! If Mahomet won't go to the mountain, the mountain must go to your +lordship! + +AUSTIN. I don't understand! + +JINNY. Well, just wait-- [_She blows her nose._] --till I bathe my face +and eyes a little; I feel rather bleary! [_Starting to go, she stops and +turns._] Good-by? + + [_Questioningly._ + +AUSTIN. [_Quietly._] Good-by. + +JINNY. [_Who wanted him to call her to him and kiss her._] Oh, very +well! but I'll _make_ you smile yet and _kiss_ me of your own accord +to-night--you'll see! + + [_She goes out Left._ + +[_She is heard singing in her room. AUSTIN goes to the desk and after a +long sigh he begins to write._] + +AUSTIN. [_Writing._] Dear Ruth. The satisfaction of the visit to +Brooklyn prevents me from being disappointed at having missed your +telegram till too late to go to your house to-night. My heart aches for +the blow you must have this evening, but please God you will bear it +bravely. The man who loves you is not bad, but he has been weak. +However, I feel once he can shake off the burden of his present +marriage, you will never have cause to complain of him again. And if +your future happiness lies truly in his hands, it will be safe there. + +JINNY. [_Calls from her room._] Are you ready? + +AUSTIN. Yes. + + [_He stops writing._ + +JINNY. In your orchestra chair? + +AUSTIN. Yes. + +JINNY. What will you have, tragedy or comedy? + +AUSTIN. [_Smiling._] Shall we begin with tragedy? + +JINNY. All right. + +AUSTIN. [_Continues to write._] So far I have been able to keep Jinny in +absolute ignorance, but I fear the blow must fall upon her soon, and I +dread to think of what she, too, will suffer. Help me to keep it from +her as long as we can, won't you? + + [_JINNY comes back; she has changed her dress to a loose negligee + gown, with a red turban on her head; she brings two sheets with her._ + +JINNY. Excuse me one minute while I set the stage! [_Moving toward each +other the big arm-chair and the sofa, she covers them with the sheets. +AUSTIN turns from his letter on the desk, to watch._] Uncle Tom's Cabin, +Act Four! [_She goes out only for a moment, and reenters, wearing a +man's overcoat, with a pillow tied in the middle with a silk scarf, +eyes, nose, and mouth made on it with a burnt match._] Eliza crossing +the ice! Come, honey darling! [_To the pillow._] Mammy'll save you from +de wicked white man! [_Jumping up on the sofa, and moving with the +springs._] _You_ ought to do the bloodhounds for me, Jack! Excuse me, +but you look the part! [_AUSTIN watches her, not unamused, but without +smiling._] Hold tight to Lize, honey, and don't be afeerd o' dat big +black man over dah--dat's Uncle Tom. [_Crossing to the arm-chair._] +Don't be afeerd, honey; it's Lize dat's cuttin' de ice this time. [_She +throws the pillow away and drags off the two sheets._] Oh, I can see +this is too serious for you! + + [_She starts singing a cakewalk and dances across the room until she + reaches him, where she finishes._ + +AUSTIN. Very good, Jinny! I'm sure we couldn't have seen better at the +theatre. + +JINNY. Ah! You're getting yourself again!--Darling! Come!--Come!--come +to the pianola and you shall have the sextette! It's in there ready; I +heard mother struggling with it. You don't suppose she has designs upon +the Casino, do you? Now--ready? + + [_He goes to the pianola and starts to play the sextette from + "Florodora." She runs to the opposite side of the room and begins + to sing and dance, crossing to AUSTIN as he plays._ + +AUSTIN. [_After a few moments._] But I can't see you and play at the +same time; I don't like it! + +JINNY. [_Delighted._] You _want to see me_, do you? + +AUSTIN. Of course I do! + +JINNY. Jack! [_Delighted._] Well, then, turn round! + + [_JINNY, hurrying the time of the song, turns it into a regular skirt + dance. She dances delightfully and AUSTIN cannot resist her charm. + His face lightens, he smiles, and love comes into his eyes. JINNY + sees and dances and sings all the better till she reaches him._ + +AUSTIN. [_Rising, he takes her into his arms._] You adorable Jinny! + +JINNY. Ah, Jack! You're smiling again and--_you love me_! + + [_Clasping her arms about his neck._ + +AUSTIN. Yes! Is the theatre finished? + +JINNY. No, only the first act. [_He sits in the big arm-chair, JINNY on +his knee._] I'm _tired_! [_He kisses her. There is a pause. There is a +knock on the door at Right._] Oh, hang it! [_Knock repeated._] _Don't_ +answer it! We haven't half made up yet! + +AUSTIN. But we must answer it, dear. + +JINNY. [_As she rises unwillingly._] I don't see why--I should have let +her knock till she went away. + +AUSTIN. Come in! + + [_MAGGIE enters with a letter._ + +JINNY. What is it, Maggie? + +MAGGIE. A note from Miss Chester, m'm, and she's downstairs herself +waiting for an answer. + +JINNY. For _me_? + + [_Taking the letter._ + +MAGGIE. No, m'm; I think she said it was for _Mr._ Austin. + +JINNY. _Oh!_--You may wait outside for the answer, Maggie. + +MAGGIE. Yes, m'm. + + [_She goes out._ + +JINNY. [_Slowly goes to AUSTIN and gives him the letter, lightly._] I +see now why you were so anxious to let Maggie in. Perhaps you were +expecting this. + +AUSTIN. Jinny! [_Holding her by the hand and trying to pull her over to +him._] Come, I'll give you a kiss for the letter. + +JINNY. No, thank you, I don't want kisses that are given by you for +letters from Ruth Chester. Yes! do kiss me! [_He kisses her._] I _won't_ +be jealous! _I won't be!_ [_Clinching her teeth._] See, I'm not jealous +a bit! Read your old letter! + + [_AUSTIN opens the note and reads it. As he does so JINNY has passed + on to the desk and sees AUSTIN'S unfinished letter to RUTH, which + after a little hesitation she picks up and reads. AUSTIN, having read + RUTH'S note, looks up thoughtfully a second, and then re-reads it. + JINNY is furious over what she reads. As she finishes she gives a + little cry from the very depths of her heart._ + +JINNY. Oh, _Jack_! + +AUSTIN. What is it? + +JINNY. Nothing! + + [_She sinks by the desk, crushing the letter in her hand. She looks + over at him, and then down at the letter, and then back at him._ + +AUSTIN. Maggie! + +JINNY. [_Rising suddenly. She speaks with a voice trembling with only +half-contained emotion and passion._] I told her to wait in the hall; +may I read it? + + [_Holding out her hand for the letter._ + +AUSTIN. Now look here, Jinny,--I always let you read everything, don't +I? + +JINNY. [_Hiding his letter behind her back._] Yes. [_Holding out her +other hand._] Give it to me! + +AUSTIN. Now begin to show that you really are going to turn over a new +leaf, and that your love is going to have perfect confidence, and don't +ask to see this letter. + +JINNY. But I _do_ ask to see it! + +AUSTIN. Then this time I must refuse you! + +JINNY. What! is it even more compromising than _your_ letter to her? + +AUSTIN. What letter? [_Looking first on the desk, he looks across at her +and sees it in her hand. He is angry, but also frightened for fear it +has told her her brother's secret._] And you've read it? + +JINNY. It lay open on the desk there, and anyway the end justifies me! + +AUSTIN. [_In an agony._] What does it tell you? I forget what I wrote! + +JINNY. It tells me that my jealousy all along has been right, that I've +been a fool to let you blind me! + +AUSTIN. [_With a great sigh of relief._] Is that all? + +JINNY. [_Beside herself._] "Is that all!" Isn't that enough? Dear God, +isn't that enough? That there's an understanding between you and Ruth to +get rid of _me_! + +AUSTIN. If it tells you that, the letter lies! Give it to me! + +JINNY. No! _I'll_ read it to you! [_Reads with bitter emphasis._] "The +satisfaction of the visit to Brooklyn prevents me from being +disappointed at having missed your telegram till too late to go to your +house to-night!" So--you and she went to Brooklyn, did you, and that's +why you came back too late to go to the theatre with me? You _cheat_! +[_She screams in her madness. A pause._] Why don't you answer--why don't +you say something? + +AUSTIN. Because if I speak as I feel, I'm afraid of saying something +I'll regret all my life! + +JINNY. You don't deny, then? + +AUSTIN. Yes! that is due to Ruth. Whatever you may feel about _me_, you +have no _right_ to _insult_ her! + +JINNY. Oh, _there's more to_ the letter! + +AUSTIN. Jinny, don't you see what you're doing? + +JINNY. Yes, I'm getting at the truth at last! [_Reads._] "My heart aches +for the blow you must have this evening! The man who loves you--" + +AUSTIN. You shan't read any more; you're mad now! + + [_Tearing the letter away from her._ + +JINNY. I don't need the letter, the words are burning in here! +[_Pressing her hands to her forehead._] "The man who loves you isn't +bad, only weak. However, I feel once we can shake off the burden of +_this present marriage_"--oh! you--you _brute_ to say that!--"you will +never have cause to complain of him again! So far I have been able to +keep Jinny in perfect ignorance, but I feel the blow must fall upon her +now--" + + [_Interrupted._ + +AUSTIN. Shall I tell you _the truth_? + +JINNY. You don't have to; I've found it out for myself! + +AUSTIN. [_In weariness, in disgust, in utter hopelessness._] No! what's +the use. You've done it now--let it go! Let it all go--the whole thing! +What's the use!--it's finished!-- [_A knock on the door at Right._] Come +in! + + [_Maggie enters and closes the door behind her._ + +MAGGIE. Please, sir, Miss Chester came upstairs and made me knock again +to see if there was an answer and if you will see her now or not. + +JINNY. [_Suddenly--aflame with her idea._] Yes! Maggie, show her in! + +AUSTIN. No, no! What do you want to do! I'll see Miss Chester to-morrow, +Maggie. + + [_JINNY has crossed to the door, Right._ + +JINNY. Ruth! Ruth! + +RUTH. [_Off stage._] Yes? May I come? + +JINNY. _Do_ come in! + + [_She recrosses room; she and AUSTIN face each other for a second._ + +AUSTIN. [_In a lowered voice._] For God's sake, be careful! + + [_RUTH enters Right._ + +RUTH. Jinny! + + [_Going to her quickly to embrace her._ + + [_JINNY, without speaking, draws away and stares at her with a look + of hatred. RUTH, seeing it, stops short, and looks from JINNY to + AUSTIN for explanation--she turns to AUSTIN and gives him her hand, + which he takes, presses, and drops; JINNY'S shoulders contract at + this moment; RUTH immediately turns again to JINNY._ + +RUTH. What is it, Jinny? [_To AUSTIN._] Surely she doesn't blame _me_ in +any way. + +JINNY. _Blame you!_ + +AUSTIN. She doesn't _know_. + +JINNY. That's a lie! I know everything, Ruth! I know why you followed my +husband to Rome, and why he sent for you to come back here. I know that +you and he were in Brooklyn this afternoon, and that you only plan to +get rid of me by some divorce, and by hook or crook to marry each other! + +RUTH. No!--No!-- + +JINNY. Oh, you can lie, too, can you? I won't keep you waiting long! +You've stolen my husband from me--take him. I won't _share_ him with any +woman! He's yours now, and I'll soon be out of your way! + +AUSTIN. _Jinny!_ + +RUTH. [_To Austin._] She must be told the truth. + + [_AUSTIN bows his head._ + +JINNY. Now you'll make up your story, will you? I tell you it's useless. +If he wouldn't let me see your compromising letter, I've seen a letter +from _him_ to _you_ to-night that gives the whole thing away. + +RUTH. [_Very quietly._] Your husband went to Brooklyn _without me_, as +your _brother_ will tell you, to see the clergyman who married me, or +_thought_ he _married_ me to _Geoffrey Tillman_ three months ago! +[_JINNY looks up with a start._] That marriage was _illegal_ because +your brother was already married, and Mr. Austin tried and did get the +promise of silence this afternoon about the Brooklyn service, to prevent +a charge of bigamy against your brother. The first marriage, which still +holds good, was with--Maggie, your present servant-- + + [_JINNY stands immovable. There is a silence._ + +AUSTIN. Geoffrey is not at your house? + +RUTH. No, he left when I came on here. As I wrote you in the note I sent +upstairs, I was too stunned by what he told me to answer then, and I +wanted a word of advice with you. [_She turns to JINNY._] _I_ knew what +I thought was my _marriage_ to your brother must be kept secret, but I +could not learn why. This was my trouble, which, after your marriage, I +selfishly laid on your husband's shoulders, thinking he might help me! +[_No answer from JINNY, who stands as if struck dumb and into stone._] +Mr. Austin only learned the whole truth when we met that day in Rome. +_I_ did not learn till to-day that I was not honestly your brother's +wife. I had to be told, because divorce proceedings are to be started at +once to break--the other--marriage. [_No answer from JINNY._] To spare +me, and above all to spare you the knowledge of your brother's sin, your +husband has kept Geoffrey's secret from you. You have _well_ repaid him! +[_She turns again to AUSTIN._] Good-by--I feel to-night I couldn't marry +Geoffrey again. He's tumbled so far off his pedestal he has fallen out +of my heart. But still--we'll see; I've told him to come to-morrow. +_Thank you_ from the bottom of my heart--it's full of gratitude, even if +it is broken! + + [_She goes out Right._ + + [_JINNY slowly turns, almost afraid to look at AUSTIN. He stands + stern, with set face._ + +JINNY. [_In a low voice, ashamed to go near him._] Can you forgive me? +Can you-- + +AUSTIN. Ugh! + + [_Crossing room for his coat._ + +JINNY. I'm mad! You know I don't know what I do. But I _love you_--I +love you! Forgive me! + +AUSTIN. Never! + + [_Taking up his coat._ + +JINNY. Where are you going? + +AUSTIN. Out of this house. + +JINNY. If you leave me, I'll not bear it! I'll kill myself! I warn you! + +AUSTIN. Bah!--Good-by! + + [_Going to the door Right._ + +JINNY. No! Where are you going? + +AUSTIN. Out of this house _for good_! + + [_At the door he turns and looks at her._ + +JINNY. [_Echoes._] For good? + +AUSTIN. _For good!_ + + [_He goes out, slamming the door behind him._ + + [_JINNY stands a moment motionless. She then cries faintly--"Jack!" + She goes to the door and pushes it open, crying out again in loud, + strong despair, "Jack!" There is a moment's pause. She cries out + again weakly, heartbrokenly, "Jack!"--comes back into the room, and + throwing herself down on the floor, her head resting on her arms in + the arm-chair, she sobs hysterically, wildly, "What have I done! Dear + God, what have I done!" as_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + + +ACT IV + + +Scene I + +_Dawn of the next day. At the rise of the curtain JINNY is by the open + window, whose curtains she has thrown aside. The sky is blood-red and + streaked with gold the moment before sunrise. JINNY is worn and + haggard, with hair dishevelled._ + +JINNY. [_Turning and leaning against the window._] Day at last! What a +night--what a night--but now it's morning and he hasn't come back! He +means it! And it's my own fault--it's my own fault! [_She shivers. She +closes the window and comes away. After a moment's pause she goes +deliberately and looks at the several gas fixtures in the room. She then +closes all the doors and locks them. She carefully draws down the shade +and closes in the curtains of the window. She hesitates, then pulls +aside the curtains and the shade, and takes a long, last look at the +dawn. She closes it all in again. She gets Austin's picture from the +desk and places it on the table near the centre of the room. She then +goes to the gas bracket at the Right and turns on the gas. She lights it +to see if the gas is all right; then blows it out. She then crosses to +the other bracket and turns that on; she goes to the chandelier at +centre, and, mounting a chair, turns on its three jets. She then sits +down by the table with AUSTIN'S picture before her, and looking into its +eyes, her elbows on the table, her head in her hands, she waits._] Oh, +Jack, my beloved! I couldn't help it--I never for one minute stopped +loving you better than everything else in my life, but no more than I +could stop loving you could I stop or help being jealous! Once the cruel +idea has got hold of me it seems to _have_ to work its way out! +Everything gets red before me and I don't seem to know what I say or do! +It's no excuse, I know. I've got no excuse, only I _love_ you! You'll +forgive me when I'm gone, won't you, Jack? You'll know I _loved_ +you!--loved you so I couldn't _live_ without you!--loved you!--_loved_ +you! [_She kisses the photograph tenderly, adoringly, slowly, in +tears._] Loved--you--loved you!--loved-- + + [_Her head drops forward, as_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + +SCENE II + +_The same morning, three hours later. The curtain rises on the same + scene in a dull, cold, early morning light. The lamp has burnt itself + out. A tiny ray of sunlight steals through a slip between the + curtains. JINNY sits by the table, her arms spread over it and her + head on her arms--she is perfectly still. AUSTIN'S picture is before + her. There is a moment's silence. Voices are heard outside, + approaching door, at Right. Gradually what they say is distinguished._ + +MAGGIE. No, sir. She hasn't been to bed; I've been to her bedroom--that +door's not unlocked. + +TILLMAN. She's been here all night? + +MAGGIE. Yes, sir. But twice in the night, sir, I came to the door and +spoke to her and she wouldn't answer me--but I could hear her walking up +and down and sometimes talking to herself. + +TILLMAN. [_Calls softly._] Jinny! [_Knocks softly._] It's father! [_No +answer._] It looks as if she were asleep now. + +AUSTIN. [_At a little distance._] Father! + +TILLMAN. I'm outside the library door. + +AUSTIN. [_Nearer._] I can't wait--have you seen her? Will she see me? + +TILLMAN. She's locked herself in here. She's not been to her own room. + +AUSTIN. Not been to bed at all! Poor Jinny--God forgive me. + +TILLMAN. Maggie says she's walked the floor all night. + + [_He knocks on the door Right._ + +AUSTIN. [_Outside the door, Right, rather softly._] Jinny! I'm so sorry! +I can't say how sorry! I've thought it out through the night, and I +think I understand things better. [_He waits a moment for an answer._] +Jinny, answer me! you shall be as jealous as you like, and I'll always +explain and kiss away those doubts of yours, and I'll have no more +secrets from you, dear. Not one! Jinny! [_As he calls there is a slight +movement of one of JINNY'S arms. With a note of alarm._] Father! I can't +hear a sound of breathing! [_A moment's pause as they listen._] She +threatened it--she threatened it several times! [_With great +determination._] We must get into this room--do you hear me--we must get +in if we have to break the door down! [_They shake the door. He calls a +little louder._] Jinny, Jinny darling--do you hear me? [_JINNY makes a +sort of feeble effort to lift her head, but fails._] Jinny, for God's +sake, answer me! I love you Jinny--_Jinny!_ [_Very slowly JINNY lifts +her head and, with difficulty, she hears as if in a dream; she is dazed, +barely alive._] She doesn't answer! + +TILLMAN. See if the key is in the lock. + +AUSTIN. No. + +TILLMAN. Get the other keys, Maggie. + +AUSTIN. _Father!_ Gas! Don't you smell it? + +TILLMAN. What! + +AUSTIN. Gas, I tell you! O God! she's killed herself! Jinny! Jinny! + + [_Beating the door._ + + [_JINNY staggers up, she tries to call "Jack"--but the word only comes + out in a half-articulate whisper! She tries again, but fails._ + +MAGGIE. Here's a key, sir. + + [_JINNY tries to go to the door; she staggers a few steps and then + falls._ + + [_They try one key--it does not unlock the door; they try another._ + + [_JINNY half raises herself and makes an effort to crawl, but is + unable and sinks back upon the floor._ + +AUSTIN. Break the door in, father! We daren't waste any more time! + +TILLMAN. No, this has done it! + + [_They open the door and rush in. They stop aghast at JINNY and the + oppressiveness of the gas in the room._ + +TILLMAN. Jinny! + +AUSTIN. Quick--the window! [_TILLMAN tears aside the curtains and throws +open the window. The sunshine of full morning pours in. He then rushes +to the opposite gas burners and turns them off. Kneeling quickly beside +her._] _Jinny! My wife!_ My beloved! + + [_He takes her up in his arms and hurries to the window._ + +TILLMAN. Are we too late? + +AUSTIN. I don't know. No! she's breathing--and see--see!--she knows +me!--she knows me! [_JINNY smiles at him pathetically._] Send Maggie for +the doctor! + + [_TILLMAN goes out Right._ + +AUSTIN. Jinny, forgive me! Forgive me! Forgive me! [_She slips her two +arms up and joins them about his neck. AUSTIN kisses her._] Father! +We've saved her! Oh, thank God, we've saved her! + + [_Bringing her to big chair and putting her in it, he kneels at her + feet._ + +JINNY. [_Whispers faintly._] _Dear Jack!_ You forgive _me_--all my +beastly jealousy? + +AUSTIN. There's one thing stronger even than jealousy, my Jinny. And +that's LOVE! That's _LOVE_! + + [_He kisses her hands, and_ + + THE CURTAIN FALLS + + + * * * * * + + +REPRESENTATIVE PLAYS + +BY WELL-KNOWN PLAYWRIGHTS + + +By MR. CLYDE FITCH + + Each 75c. net (postage 6c.) + +The Climbers + + A keen satire on contemporary New York society, which explains its + title thus:-- + + "There are social climbers, but wealth is as good a goal. 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Performed with Music by Joseph Moorat, under the + Stage Direction of Edward Gordon Craig, December, MCMII. + + Cloth, 12mo, $1.25 net (postage 7c.) + + +THE MACMILLAN COMPANY + +64-66 Fifth Avenue, New York + + + * * * * * + + + [Transcriber's Note: + + The following text was printed at the beginning of the original book, + immediately after the copyright notice. It is included here for + historical interest only.] + + All acting rights, both professional and amateur, are reserved by + Clyde Fitch. Performances forbidden and right of representation + reserved. Application for the right of performing this piece must + be made to The Macmillan Company. Any piracy or infringement will + be prosecuted in accordance with the penalties provided by the United + States Statutes:-- + + "SEC. 4966.--Any person publicly performing or representing any + dramatic or musical composition, for which copyright has been + obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of the said dramatic + or musical composition, or his heirs or assigns, shall be liable for + damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such + sum, not less than one hundred dollars for the first and fifty + dollars for every subsequent performance, as to the Court shall + appear to be just. If the unlawful performance and representation + be wilful and for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty of + a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period not + exceeding one year."--U.S. REVISED STATUTES, Title 60, Chap. 3. + + + * * * * * + * * * * + * * * * * + + +Errata Noted by Transcriber: + +All French and German words ("Wunderbaum!") are as in the original. + +On floral small / table + _so in original: "a floral..."?_ +AUSTIN. Geof? most certainly I do, and Jinny adores him. + _text reads "Geoff"_ +[_AUSTIN enters Left, followed by RUTH._ + _text reads "followed by Ruth" (in plain type)_ +TILLMAN. Um!-- [_Thinks a second, then taking out his cigar case, he +empties it of cigars and hands them to JINNY._] Give your husband these, +please, when he comes in! + _text continues stage-direction italics through end of speech_ +the sextette from / "Florodora." + _spelling correct as printed_ +[_She recrosses room; she and AUSTIN face each other for a second._ + _so in original: "recrosses the room"?_ + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's The Girl with the Green Eyes, by Clyde Fitch + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE GIRL WITH THE GREEN EYES *** + +***** This file should be named 19101.txt or 19101.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/9/1/0/19101/ + +Produced by Louise Hope, David Garcia and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Kentuckiana Digital Library) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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