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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/35342-8.txt b/35342-8.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f492273 --- /dev/null +++ b/35342-8.txt @@ -0,0 +1,3941 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Romance of a Poor Young Man, by +Pierrepont Edwards and Lester Wallace + +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 Romance of a Poor Young Man + A Drama Adapted from the French of Octave Feuillet + +Author: Pierrepont Edwards + Lester Wallace + +Release Date: February 21, 2011 [EBook #35342] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A POOR YOUNG MAN *** + + + + +Produced by Charlene Taylor, Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images +produced by the Wright American Fiction Project.) + + + + + + + + + + THE STANDARD DRAMA. + + The Acting Edition. + + NO. CCXXV. + + + THE ROMANCE OF + A POOR YOUNG MAN. + + A Drama, adapted from the French of + OCTAVE FEUILLET, + + BY MESSRS. PIERREPONT EDWARDS AND LESTER WALLACK. + + TO WHICH ARE ADDED + + A Description of the Costume--Cast of the Characters--Entrances + and Exits--Relative Positions of the Performers on the Stage, and + the whole of the Stage Business + + Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1859, by LESTER + WALLACK, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the + Southern District of New York. + + NEW YORK: + SAMUEL FRENCH, PUBLISHER, + 122 NASSAU STREET, (UP STAIRS.) + + + + +CHARACTERS REPRESENTED. + + + _Manuel, Marquis de Champcey_, Mr. Lester Wallack. + + _Doctor Desmarets,--formerly of the French Army_, Mr. Brougham. + + _M. de Bevannes--a man of the world_, Mr. Walcot. + + _Gaspar Laroque--an aged man, formerly Captain of a Privateer_, + Mr. Dyott. + + _Alain--a confidential domestic_, Mr. Young. + + _M. Nouret--a Notary_, Mr. Levere. + + _Yvonnet--a Breton Shepherd_, Mr. Baker. + + _Henri_, Mr. Oliver. + + _Louis_, Mr. Coburn. + + _Madame Laroque--Daughter-in-Law to Gaspar_, Mrs. Vernon. + + _Marguerite--her daughter_, Mrs. Hoey. + + _Mlle Helouin--a Governess_, + + _Madame Aubrey--a relative of the Laroque family_, + Miss Mary Gannon. + + _Louise Vauberger--formerly nurse to Manuel, now keeper of a lodging + house_, Mrs. Walcot. + + _Christine--a Breton peasant girl_, Miss Fanny Reeves. + + _Guests, Servants, Peasantry, &c., &c._ + + +The events of the Drama take place (during the 1st Act) in Paris, +afterward in the Province of Britanny. + +Costumes of the present day. + +The Overture, incidental Music, and Choruses composed and arranged by +Mr. Robert Stoepel. + + + + +A POOR YOUNG MAN. + + + + +TABLEAU I. + + + _A Room, simply furnished--Table, Chairs, Arm Chair, Secretaire, + Side Table--Door C._ + + _MADAME VAUBERGER peeps in L._ + +_Madame Vauberger._ No; he has not yet returned. [_Enters._] Things +cannot go on in this manner much longer--I shall have to speak out, and +plainly too. And why not? Surely he won't take it ill from me--ah, no. +I, who loved his poor mother so, could never--What's this? A purse! +empty! And this key, left carelessly lying about; that's a bad sign. +[_Opens Secretaire._] No, not one solitary sous--his last coin came +yesterday to pay me the rent. In the drawer, perhaps-- + + _DR. DESMARETS looks in._ + +_Dr. Desmarets._ Hallo! [_She starts._] What are you at there? + +_Mad. V._ Me, sir? I was just--I was just-- + +_Des._ Poking your nose into that drawer--that what you call just? + +_Mad. V._ I was dusting and putting the things in order, sir. + +_Des._ I'll tell you what, Madame V., you're an extraordinary woman. +Yesterday, when I called, you were dusting--half-an-hour ago when I +called, you were dusting--and now, when I call again, you're dusting. +Where the devil you find so much dust to dust, _I_ can't think. + +_Mad. V._ Ah, sir, look into this drawer. + +_Des._ What for? + +_Mad. V._ Is it not the place where, if one had money, one would +naturally keep it? + +_Des._ I suppose so. What of that? + +_Mad. V._ See, sir, it is empty. + +_Des._ What's that to me? + +_Mad. V._ And his purse, also. + +_Des._ What's that to you? [_Goes up and puts hat on table._ + +_Mad. V._ [_Aside._] I dare not tell him that Manuel is without a +meal--starving--I should never be forgiven. His _pride_ would be +wounded, and nothing could excuse that. + +_Des._ Well, what are you cogitating about? Looking for something to +dust? + +_Mad. V._ I'm thinking of the Marquis, sir. + +_Des._ Well, what of him? + +_Mad. V._ Is it not dreadful? Brought up as he has been--surrounded by +every luxury--and now reduced to want even. Oh! it is too hard--too +hard! + +_Des._ Well, it's his own fault, isn't it? There was enough left from +the wreck of his father's property, to give him a sort of a living, and +he must needs go and settle it all upon his little sister Helen. + +_Mad. V._ And for what? To give her the education befitting her rank. + +_Des._ Fudge! + +_Mad. V._ Doctor Desmarets, your're very unfeeling. + +_Des._ Oh, of course, of course. I give him good advice, he rejects it. +I withdraw my sympathy, and then I'm unfeeling. If he can't manage +better with the little that's left him, egad! he may think himself lucky +that he can get his daily meals. + +_Mad. V._ Sir, he can't even--[_Aside._] Oh, if I dared-- + +_Des._ Can't even what? Send for his coupe, I suppose, or drink Chateau +margaux--terrible hardships, truly. When there's nothing else in a man's +pocket, he had better put his pride there, and button it up tight. + +_Mad. V._ Some day, sir, we shall find that he has taken poison, or cut +his throat. + +_Des._ Ah! and then there'll be nothing to dust. + +_Mad. V._ Monsieur, I repeat it--you're unfeeling. But I, who loved and +served his dear mother, whom he so much resembles-- + +_Des._ Not a bit--hasn't a look of her. The father, the father all over. + +_Mad. V._ Of course. So you always say, and everybody knows why. You +loved the poor Marchioness, offered her your hand, and she preferred the +Marquis. + +_Des._ Madame! + +_Mad. V._ I don't care. I _will_ speak my mind. And because she refused +you, you have no regard for her son. + +_Des._ Madame! + +_Mad. V._ But if he has his father's face, he has his mother's heart. + +_Des._ Much you know about it. + +_Mad. V._ And who _should_ know if I don't? Havn't I attended him since +he was an infant? + +_Des._ Well, and havn't _I_ attended him since he was an infant? + +_Mad. V._ Wasn't I with him during every sickness? + +_Des._ Wasn't I with him too? + +_Mad. V._ Didn't I nurse him? + +_Des._ Didn't I cure him? + +_Mad. V._ Wouldn't I follow him through the world? + +_Des._ Didn't I bring him _into_ it? + +_Mad. V._ Yes, and if things go on at this rate, he won't have much to +thank you for. + +_Des._ How do _you_ know? How do _you_ know, you foolish old woman you. + + _MANUEL appears._ + +_Man._ Heyday! the only two friends I have in the world at high words? +What can have caused this? + +_Mad. V._ My lord, the Doctor says you-- + +_Man._ Me! my dear Doctor, you never were quarrelling about so +unimportant a person, surely? + +_Des._ No matter for that. But I have some business with the Marquis, if +this very positive old lady will allow me the luxury of an interview +with him--a _private_ interview. Pray, ma'am, _may_ I trespass on your +indulgence? + +_Mad. V._ Truly, Doctor, your campaign in the Crimea has improved +neither your manners, or your beauty. [_Exit L. H._ + +_Des._ Confound her impudence! The attack on my manners I could forgive, +but my beauty--that's a tender point. + +_Man._ Ah, Doctor, you must pardon her brusque manner. If she's poor in +courtesy, she's rich in a rarer gift--fidelity. + +_Des._ Oh! hang her! let her go. And now to your affairs. Your father's +death occurred while I was with the army, in the Crimea. Rumors reached +me there, but I have never heard the full particulars. I would not +willingly revive a painful theme, but as an old friend-- + +_Man._ Nay, I shall be more satisfied when you know the facts. When you +left France you know what our position was, and what our style of +living. + +_Des._ All the luxuries that money could procure--a mansion in Paris, an +ancestral chateau, and a stable that could boast the best blood in +France. + +_Man._ Two months after the death of my dear mother, I went to Italy, by +my father's desire, and for several years I traveled through Europe, at +my pleasure. During this time his letters to me were affectionate, but +brief, and never expressed any desire for my return. Two months ago, on +arriving at Marseilles, I found several letters from him awaiting me, +each of them begging me to return home with all possible haste. + +_Des._ I remember, it was some time previous to that, that I heard his +name mentioned in connection with some unfortunate speculations in the +stocks. + +_Man._ I arrived at night. The ground was white with snow. As I passed +up the avenue--made still darker by the old trees which overshadowed +it--I could hear the frost shaken from the branches, seeming, as it fell +around me, like a warning of bitter tears to come. Hardly had I crossed +the threshold when my father's arms were around me. I could feel his +heart beating against my own, with a force almost painful. He led me to +a sofa, and placed himself directly in front of me, when, as if longing +to reveal something which yet he dared not name, he fixed his eyes on +mine with an expression of supplication, of agony, of shame, wondrous in +a man so haughty and so proud. It was enough! The wrong he had +committed, yet could not confess, I divined full well--God knows how +fully, how freely I forgave it! Suddenly, that look, which never quitted +me, became fixed, rigid. The pressure of his hand on mine became a grip +of iron. He arose--the eyes wandered, the hand relaxed, and he fell dead +at my feet! + +_Des._ [_After a pause._] Well, well, it is a sad history, for he left +utter ruin for your portion. But come, you must not look back. "Forward" +must be the watchword now. Mr. Faveau, your family lawyer, tells me that +the little that remained to you, after paying your father's debts, you +have appropriated to making a fine lady of your sister. + +_Man._ To educate her, doctor. + +_Des._ Well, well, same thing; so that you, yourself, have literally +nothing to speak of--hardly enough to give you bread. + +_Man._ Hardly. + +_Des._ Under these circumstances you will perhaps be disposed to the +favorable consideration of a proposal I have to make? + +_Man._ Name it, sir, for at present, I confess I have formed no plans of +my own. I was so little prepared to find myself quite a beggar. Were I +alone in the world, I would become a soldier. But my sister, that would +involve prolonged absence from her--perhaps an early death. My +darling--I cannot endure the thought of knowing her compelled to suffer +the privations, the labor, and the dangers of poverty. She is happy at +her school, and young enough to remain there for some years to come. If +I could but find some occupation by which, even were I obliged to impose +the severest restraints upon myself, it would be possible to save enough +for her marriage portion, I should be more than content. + +_Des._ An employment to suit a man of your rank-- + +_Man._ Oh, my dear Doctor--rank-- + +_Des._ Well, well, of your _education_, then, is not easily found. Now, +mark what I am going to say, and consider it well, before you come to a +hasty conclusion. There is, among my patients, a retired merchant, one +who has been able, by indefatigable industry in trade, to amass a very +handsome fortune. His daughter, an only a child, and of course, the +father's darling, has, by chance, become acquainted with the state of +your affairs. Now, I have reason to know, (being on very confidential +terms with them.) I say I have reason to know that this girl, ambitious, +handsome, rich, and accomplished, would be happy to share your title. I +have the father's consent, and only await the word from you to-- + +_Man._ Dr. Desmarets, my name is neither for sale, or to let. + +_Des._ Humph! Do you know, my lord, that you bear a remarkable +resemblance to your poor mother? + +_Man._ You must be mistaken, sir. I have always been told that I was +more like my father. + +_Des._ Not a bit! The mother, the mother, sir, in every feature. But, +bless me, it's near eleven o'clock and I have a most particular +appointment. As you decline considering the proposal I have made, we +must think of something else. Au revoir. [_Aside._] The mother--eyes, +nose, mouth. What the devil made that stupid old woman say he was like +his father? [_Exit C._ + +_Man._ He's a kind man, though a little eccentric, and apart from his +professional duty, seems actuated by a sincere desire to serve me, and +yet--and yet I could not bring myself to ask his charity. +Hunger--starvation--are not, then, mere empty words. Oh! if I do sin in +my pride, I am punished, for I suffer much. This is the second day +without food. Why, after all, I could go into any Restaurant and dine, +for I am well enough known. I could say I had forgotten my purse--have +done so without scruple in happier times, but _then_ I had the means to +pay, and now--no, no, my sister, not for life, not even for _thee_, will +I descend to lie and cheat. How weak I am; this comes too soon upon my +long sickness. If I could but sleep and so forget my agony. And there +are human creatures who suffer every day as I do now. My sister, my +little sister, I seem to see thy dear face looking down upon me, and +bidding me be comforted. [_Music._] Thou, at least, shall never suffer. +But for those who hear their cries of hunger repeated from the mouths of +starving little ones, well, well, God comfort them; I will not +re--Oh--holy--charity--for--those--who--my sister--my-- + + _MANUEL gradually falls asleep. MADAME VAUBERGER enters with a + Tray containing a dish or two with eatables, a plate, &c. She + watches MANUEL carefully while she deposits the Tray on the + chimney-piece and lays a cloth on the table. MANUEL awakes as she + goes back to the chimney-piece for tray._ + +_Man._ Eh--who's that? Ah, me! What are you doing, Madame? + +_Mad. V._ Did you not order dinner, my lord? + +_Man._ Certainly not. + +_Mad. V._ Why they told me-- + +_Man._ Then they were mistaken. It's for some of the other lodgers. + +_Mad. V._ But there's no other lodgers on this floor, and I really +cannot think what-- + +_Man._ At any rate, it is not for me. Take it away. + +_Mad. V._ [_After slowly taking off cloth._] My lord has probably +dined? + +_Man._ Probably. + +_Mad. V._ Dear me, dear me, what a pity. A good dinner spoiled, wasted. +Really, if you had not dined, my lord, it would so oblige me if-- + +_Man._ Will you go or not? [_She is dejectedly going, when MANUEL +calls._] Louise, I understand, and I thank you, but I am not well +to-day. I have no desire to eat. [_He turns away. MADAME VAUBERGER +quietly comes back and gently places the dinner on the table._ + +_Mad. V._ Ah, my Lord, if you knew how you wound my heart. Come now, you +shall pay me for the dinner--there--you shall put the money into my hand +the moment you have it. But indeed, indeed, if you were to give me a +hundred thousand francs, it would not cause me half the pleasure that I +should feel in seeing you eat my poor little dinner. Oh, surely, surely, +you can comprehend that. + +_Man._ I do, Louise, I do--and as I can't give you the hundred thousand +francs, why, I'll eat your dinner. + +_Mad. V._ No; _will_ you? + +_Man._ Louise, your hand. Don't be alarmed, I'm not going to put money +into it. [_She timidly gives her hand._ + +_Mad. V._ Oh! thank you, thank you, my lord, a thousand times. Now, I'll +leave you to your dinner. Ah! how good of you to accept my poor gift. +You have a noble heart. [_Exit C._ + +_Man._ And a monstrous appetite. My kind, faithful Louise. Well, well, +let us to dinner, since dinner there is. Come, come, here's life for +another day or so, at least, and that's something. + + _DOCTOR and MADAME VAUBERGER heard without._ + +_Des._ Nonsense, nonsense; I don't believe a word of it. + +_Mad. V._ I tell you sir, 'tis true; you might have seen it. + +_Des._ [_Entering._] But, confound it, woman--I _didn't_ see it, and it +was your business to tell me. + +_Mad. V._ It wasn't. + +_Des._ It was. + +_Man._ What's the matter now? + +_Des._ Matter enough! That stupid woman-- + +_Man._ Doctor, will you do me the pleasure to dine with me? + +_Des._ My lord, you have done wrong. + +_Man._ Indeed! + +_Des._ For you have wounded a friend. You have been cruel. + +_Man._ Cruel! + +_Des._ For you have made an old man blush. + +_Man._ I! + +_Des._ Yes, you! why was I left in ignorance? How could you, Manuel? why +didn't you. Damn it, sir? how dare you starve without letting me know? + +_Man._ Sir, I could not-- + +_Des._ My poor boy; there, there, eat your dinner; I've news for you. + +_Man._ News! + +_Des._ Yes; eat your dinner. + +_Man._ But I want to listen. + +_Des._ Well, you don't listen with your mouth, I suppose. Eat your +dinner. + +_Man._ But-- + +_Des._ Devil a word you'll get out of me, if you don't eat your dinner. + +_Man._ Well, well. [_Eats._ + +_Des._ Good! You remember I told you I had an appointment? + +_Man._ Yes. + +_Des._ Don't talk--eat! [_MANUEL eats._] That appointment concerned you. +[_MANUEL nods._] I think I've found employment for you. + +_Man._ Eh? [_Pauses with a bit on his fork._ + +_Des._ In with it. [_MANUEL puts it in his mouth._] Good! You are +aware, of course, that my practice and my residence is in the country. +I merely came to Paris on your account. [_MANUEL lets go his fork +to shake hands with the DOCTOR, who puts the fork into his hand +again._] Well, among the families with whom I am most intimate, +there is one, in particular, of great wealth and importance. The +name is Laroque. The family have had for some years past, a managing +man, a steward, who never was worth much. Indeed, the only +real service he has ever rendered them, he has just performed. + +_Man._ Ran away? + +_Des._ No, died. The moment I heard of this, I wrote to Madame Laroque, +asking his situation for a friend of mine. On leaving you, I went to the +post office, and found a letter awaiting me, with the full consent of +the family to my request. To be sure the position for a man of your +rank-- + +_Man._ My rank, under present circumstances, is a mockery. I shall, in +future, take simply my Christian name of Manuel. + +_Des._ I have only mentioned you in my letters as Monsieur Manuel, +anticipating that such would be your wish. You will have your own +apartments in a pavilion near the Chateau. Your salary will be so +regulated that you will be enabled to lay by a portion for your sister. +Now, the only question remaining is, will this suit you? + +_Man._ Admirably! My dear, kind friend, how shall I sufficiently thank +you? + +_Des._ Eat your dinner. + +_Man._ But am I fitted for the position? + +_Des._ Pretty well. You've learned one great requisite. + +_Man._ What's that? + +_Des._ Economy. As to the rest, the duties are simple enough. And now +I'll give you some notion of the people you are going to meet. There +are, in the Chateau, without counting visitors, five persons. First, +Monsieur Laroque, celebrated at the beginning of the present century as +a famous privateer Captain. Hence his large fortune. He is now a feeble +old man, mind and memory a good deal the worse for wear. Then there is +Madame Laroque, his daughter-in-law, a Creole-- + +_Man._ A Creole? + +_Des._ Yes, young gentleman, an _elderly_ Creole, with some +eccentricities to be sure, but a good heart. Thirdly, there is +Mademoiselle Marguerite, her daughter, much younger-- + +_Man._ That's singular. + +_Des._ Eat your dinner. She is proud, somewhat romantic, a little +thoughtless,-- + +_Man._ And her disposition? + +_Des._ Sweet. Fourthly, Madame Aubrey, a widow, a sort of second cousin, +old maidish, talky-- + +_Man._ Disposition? + +_Des._ Sour. Fifthly, Mademoiselle Helouin--Governess. Young, good +looking. + +_Man._ Disposition? + +_Des._ Doubtful. And that completes the catalogue. + +_Man._ Delightful! Two good dispositions out of five. The proportion is +enormous! + +_Des._ I'm glad you look at things so hopefully. When will you be ready +to accompany me to the Chateau? + +_Man._ To-morrow--to-day. + +_Des._ To-morrow will do. I shall be here for you early. [_Going._ + +_Man._ I shall be ready. + +_Des._ [_Runs against MADAME V. who is coming in._] Confound it, woman, +take care! + +_Mad. V._ Why, Doctor, you ran against me. + +_Des._ I didn't! + +_Mad. V._ You did! + +_Man._ What's the matter now? + +_Des._ Eat your dinner! + + +END OF TABLEAU I. + + + + +TABLEAU II. + + + _A Saloon with bay windows opening on a Terrace, from which steps + descend to lawn and grounds at back--Piano, R. U. E.--Books, + Papers, Vases, &c., &c._ + + _DE BEVANNES, DR. DESMARETS, MAD. LAROQUE, MARGUERITE, + MADEMOISELLE HELOUIN, MAD. AUBREY discovered. As Curtain rises, M. + DE BEVANNES is conversing with several young ladies on the terrace + at back. DESMARETS reading paper, L. C. MADAME LAROQUE wrapped in + furs, L. reading a book. MARGUERITE near her mother, at tapestry + work. MADAME AUBREY, R. C. knitting. MAD'LLE HELOUIN arranging + flowers in vase, R. Great talking and laughing from the party on + the terrace as the curtain rises._ + +_Bevannes._ Very well, very well, young ladies, if you insist upon it. +The ladies are determined on a waltz on the terrace. + +_Madame Laroque._ What! in the broiling sun? + +_Bev._ The roses do not fear the sun. Why should the lilies? + +_Ladies_ [_all courtesey._] Oh, how pretty. + +_Bev._ Yes, rather neat, I think. [_To MARGUERITE_] Mademoiselle, may I +hope for the honor? + +_Mar._ Thank you. Despite your pretty speech, I confess to a fear of +waltzing in the sun. But I'll play for you with pleasure. + + [_Goes towards Piano, R._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside to her._] Always cruel. [_To M'LLE HELOUIN_,] +Mademoiselle, may I request the pleasure? + +_Mlle Helouin._ Oh! certainly. + +_Bev._ [_Aside to her._] Ever kind. + + [_MARGUERITE plays--they waltz and gradually disappear._ + +_Mad. L._ Have you seen my new conservatory, Doctor? + +_Des._ No, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ Well, I must show it to you, if I can drag myself so far. + +_Des._ Drag? Why, good gracious! You're the picture of health this +morning--fresh as a rose. + +_Mad. L._ Fresh? Frozen. It's a curious fact, Doctor, that since I left +the Antilles, twenty years ago, I have never yet known what it was to +feel comfortably warm. + +_Des._ That accounts for your continued good looks. Consult your Cookery +Book, page 18. If you want to preserve things fresh, you must keep them +cold. And you, Madame, [_To MADAME AUBREY_] how do _you_ find yourself? + +_Madame Aubrey._ Very weak, Doctor. I ate a tolerable breakfast this +morning. + +_Des._ [_Aside._] You may say that. Three eggs and a broiled chicken. + +_Mad. A._ And I feel a fullness-- + +_Des._ [_Aside._] I should think so. + +_Mad. A._ In the head. + +_Des._ Ah! + +_Mad. A._ The fact is, Doctor, I am subject to such continual chagrin, +such cruel mortifications here. Dependent upon others for certain +luxuries which I can't get for myself. + +_Des._ Why not? + +_Mad. A._ Things are so dear. Ah, Doctor, nothing will soothe me but +death. + +_Des._ Well, _that's_ cheap! + +_Mad. A._ Brute! [_Aside._ + +_Mar._ [_at Piano._] Here they come again. + + _She plays. The waltzers appear on terrace. In the midst of this + dancing, MANUEL comes up steps, as if from lawn below. They + separate R. and L. and regard him with some astonishment. He has + a portfolio under his arm._ + +_Mar._ Well, why don't you go on? + +_Des._ [_Aside._] At last, [_aloud._] Madame Laroque, permit me to +present to you, M. Manuel, the new Steward. + + _MAD. LAROQUE rises and salutes MANUEL, at the same time ringing a + bell. A servant enters and goes to MANUEL, taking from him a small + portmanteau, which he carries off. MARGUERITE goes over to L. of + MAD. LAROQUE._ + +_Bev._ Rather a stylish looking steward! + +_Mad. L._ Why, Doctor, what does this mean? You promised a quiet, +simple, steady young man, and you bring me a fine gentleman like this. + + _As MANUEL comes down R. C., MAD'LLE HELOUIN sees him._ + +_Mlle. H._ [_Aside._] It is the Marquis de Champcey! + + [_Goes up to ladies._ + + MAD. AUBREY--MANUEL--DESMARETS--BEVANNES--MAD. LAROQUE--MADEMOISELLE + HELOUIN--MARGUERITE. + +_Mad. L._ Pardon, sir, you are Monsieur-- + +_Man._ Manuel, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ The new Steward? + +_Man._ Yes, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ You are quite sure? + +_Des._ [_Aside._] That's not bad. + +_Man._ Madame! + +_Bev._ The lady wishes to know whether you are yourself. + +_Man._ I have always been under that impression, sir. + + [_BEVANNES goes up._ + +_Des._ [_Aside._] The conversation is becoming brilliant--I'll leave +them to enjoy it. [_Exit at back--BEVANNES comes down to MARQUIS._ + +_Mad. L._ Sir, we are indebted to you for devoting your talents to our +service; we really require them, for we have the misfortune to be +immensely rich. + +_Mad. A._ Misfortune, dear? + +_Mad. L._ Yes, love; wealth is a heavy burthen. + +_Mad. A._ But a very pleasant one. + +_Mad. L._ You'd find it hard to bear, dear. + +_Mad. A._ I should like to _try_, darling. + +_Mad. L._ I feel that I was born for the devotion and self-sacrifice +entailed by poverty. Ah! my dear Bevannes, should I not have made an +excellent Sister of Charity? + +_Bev._ You are already the next thing to it, Madame? + +_Mad. L._ How so? + +_Bev._ [_Indicating MARGUERITE._] The mother of goodness. + +_Mar._ Oh, sir. + +_Mad. L._ But do you not agree with me? + +_Bev._ In what? + +_Mad. L._ That wealth is a heavy responsibility. + +_Bev._ Doubtless. But then you have the comfort of knowing that +there are always some devoted friends willing to relieve you. + +_Mad. L._ [_Rings._] But _my_ fortune is not mine to dispose of--for +my duty obliges me to preserve it for my child. + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +Alain, show this gentleman to his apartments--but first, you must be +introduced to my father-in-law. Ask if Monsieur Laroque can see the +gentleman. [_Exit ALAIN--MANUEL up stage._] And now, we will take a +stroll to the conservatory. What has become of that horrid doctor? +[_As she rises, her shawl falls off--MANUEL comes forward and assists +her._] Oh! thank you, sir. + + _Re-enter ALAIN._ + +_Alain._ Monsieur Laroque is coming down, Madame. [_Exit at back._ + +_Mad. L._ [_To MARGUERITE._] My dear, will you stay and introduce +Monsieur Manuel to your grandpapa? + +_Mar._ Certainly, if you wish it. + +_Mad. L._ Now, my dear Bevannes, your arm. + +_Bev._ [_Who has been talking to MARGUERITE._] Eh? + +_Mad. L._ You shall accompany us-- + +_Bev._ [_To MARGUERITE._] This is too bad. + + [_Gives arm to MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Mar._ Oh! Monsieur de Bevannes, how happy you ought to feel--arm in arm +with "the mother of goodness." + +_Bev._ I do feel happy--blessed. [_MADAME AUBREY takes his other arm._] +Doubly blessed. [_Exeunt BEVANNES, MADAME LAROQUE and MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mlle. H._ [_Aside._] So, so, my lord Marquis. Well, I will keep your +secret, _perhaps_. [_Exit--MARGUERITE seats herself as they go off._ + +_Mar._ [_After a pause._] Is this your first visit to Brittany, sir? + +_Man._ It is, Mademoiselle. + +_Mar._ It is an interesting country, I believe, to strangers. + +_Man._ Deeply interesting; though I travelled through it so rapidly, +that I had hardly time to appreciate its beauties. What I _did_ see, +however, charmed me. + +_Mar._ Ah! an admirer of the picturesque, I perceive, like our +governess. You two will get on very well together--you'll be excellent +companions. + +_Man._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mar._ Oh, yes; she adores trees, rocks, rivers, etcetera--things that, +for my own part, I don't think very interesting. + +_Man._ [_Smiling, and throwing himself carelessly into a chair._] Pray, +then, may I ask what you _do_ think interesting? + +_Mar._ [_Rising._] Excuse me, sir. + + [_Goes out with a slight and disdainful inclination._ + +_Man._ A timely reproof--for I was already forgetting my position. +[_ALAIN is crossing the stage._] My friend, a word with you. + +_Alain._ Certainly, sir. + +_Man._ Monsieur Laroque is very old, is he not? + +_Alain._ Oh, yes sir, _very_ old. + +_Man._ He was a seaman formerly, I believe? + +_Alain._ Yes sir, and a bold one too. Up in the picture gallery, there +are paintings of some of his most famous battles with the English. Ah! +he was a terrible man. Why, sir, if you'll believe me, when the fit is +on him, he will walk for hours alone in that gallery, in a sort of +dream, muttering to himself, and fancying that he is again on board his +ship in the midst of fire and slaughter, and between you and I, sir, +they _do_ say--but hush! he's coming with his granddaughter. [_Music._ + + _Enter M. LAROQUE, leaning on MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ This way, dear grandfather. So, so. How well and strong you are +to-day. [_ALAIN places chairs and exits._ + +_Laroque._ Always better and stronger when you are near me, my darling, +[_sits down._] Thank ye, thank ye. + +_Mar._ Let me present to you Mons. Manuel, our new steward. + + _LAROQUE, on seeing MANUEL, is transfixed and gazes with a sort of + terror at him._ + +_Lar._ No--no--no--it cannot be! + +_Mar._ What is this? + +_Lar._ But I tell you he is dead--dead-- + +_Mar._ Dearest grandfather! [_To_ MANUEL.] For heaven's sake, sir, speak +to him. + +_Man._ Really, Mademoiselle--I--I-- + +_Mar._ Speak, sir! Say something--anything-- + +_Man._ I am happy, sir, that I can devote my humble talents to your +service. + +_Lar._ But he is dead-- + +_Man._ Who? + +_Mar._ The last steward-- [_Signs to MANUEL to speak on._ + +_Man._ All the more happy, sir, as I have heard of your many brilliant +exploits, and had relatives who, like yourself, have often fought +against the English-- + +_Lar._ The English! Aye--aye--aye--they did it--they were the cause, but +they paid it all--paid dearly--dearly. + +_Man._ [_Approaching._] Permit me, sir, to-- + +_Lar._ Ah! No--no--no. He has blood upon him! See--see--see-- + +_Mar._ Grandfather, dear grandfather! Do not regard him, [_To MANUEL._] +he is often thus--his great age--and--and--oh, sir, pray retire; join my +mother, I beg of you. + +_Man._ Certainly, Mademoiselle. [_Aside._] A good beginning, truly. + + [_Exit._ + +_Mar._ Grandfather, dearest, what terrible thoughts are troubling you? +See, it is I, Marguerite, your child. + +_Lar._ Eh! my child! Ah, yes, true, my child, my own dear child; but +where is--are we alone? Who stood _there_ just now? + +_Mar._ That was our new steward, Monsieur Manuel. + +_Lar._ Manuel--Manuel--'tis very strange! I thought-- + +_Mar._ What, dear grandfather? + +_Lar._ Thought that--that-- + +_Mar._ Oh, you thought you recognized him? He is like some one you have +seen before? + +_Lar._ Yes--yes--yes--like some one I have seen before. But I am very +old, darling, and have seen so many faces in my time. Well, well, I +think I shall like him. Does he play picquet? + +_Mar._ Indeed I do not know-- + +_Lar._ I hope so, I hope so-- + + _Enter MAD. AUBREY._ + +_Mad. H._ Ah, my dear cousin, how do you find yourself now? They told me +you were ill, and almost frightened me to death. + +_Lar._ Thank ye, cousin, thank ye. It was only a passing weakness. + +_Mad. A._ Indeed, I rejoice to hear it, for I was fearful of some +sudden--Oh, why did you not send for me? 'Tis very unkind of you +to forget those who love you so. [_Weeps._ + +_Mar._ Grandpapa, there's one for you. [_Aside to him._ + +_Lar._ [_To MAD. AUBREY._] Well, well it's very kind of you to be so +fearful of _something sudden_, but you needn't--I've made my _will_. +[_Aside to MARGUERITE._] There's one for _her_! + +_Mad. A._ Come now, take my arm, a walk upon the terrace will do you so +much good. There, don't be afraid to lean on me. + +_Lar._ You're very kind, cousin. Thank ye, thank ye. [_Going._] +Marguerite, my darling, ask him if he plays picquet. + +_Mar._ I will. + +_Lar._ Umph! do you think he does? + +_Mar._ I have no doubt of it. + +_Lar._ [_As he goes out with_ MAD. AUBREY.] I hope so--I hope so--I +hope so! [_Exeunt LAROQUE and MAD. AUBREY._ + +_Mar._ My poor grandfather; spite of his failing memory, he sees through +the disinterestedness of our good cousin Aubrey. But those wild words, +his terror at the appearance of this young man, what could that mean? Or +had it any meaning? [_Sees MAD. LAROQUE and MANUEL coming in at back._] +My mother--and leaning on the arm of that person! + +_Mad. L._ Precisely my own opinion, sir, my impression exactly; this +is really charming; we agree upon every point. + +_Man._ I am flattered, Madame, to think such should be the case. + +_Bev._ [_Without._] 'Pon my honor, young ladies, I can't, I really +can't! + + _Enter BEVANNES, surrounded by ladies, exclaiming_, "You must, + Indeed!" + +_Bev._ Would you believe it, Madame? Those unconscionable ladies +insist on another waltz. + +_Mar._ Oh, indeed I cannot play any more--I must finish this to-day--It +is a promise-- + +_Man._ Pray do not let that inconvenience the ladies--I will play a +waltz with much pleasure. [_Touches Piano._ + +_Bev._ Sir! + +_Mar._ [_Haughtily._] Thank you, sir--it is not requisite. + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Forgetting again. [_Goes up Terrace._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Pretty cool! + +_Mar._ Very presuming of that steward. + +_Mad L._ Very polite of that _gentleman_. + +_Bev._ Highly disgusting to _this_ gentleman. + +_Mad. L._ Well, de Bevannes, you must find some other amusement for the +ladies. + +_Bev._ 'Gad, I'll soon do that. It's positively fatiguing to be in such +general request with them. They can't do without me for one moment--they +absolutely-- + + _Turns and perceives MANUEL, who, during the preceding dialogue, + has entered into conversation with the ladies, and has, by this + time, offered his arm to two of them--They all accompany him off._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Well, if I were given to strong sentiments, I should +wish that fellow at the deuce. As it is, I'll content myself with simply +damning his impudence. + +_Mad. L._ Do you know, my dear, that I don't feel quite easy in my mind +about that young man. + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Nor I, either. + +_Mar._ Why not, mamma? + +_Mad. L._ He is much too charming to make a good steward. + +_Mar._ Really; I do not perceive it. A person may be honest and +well-behaved, although he does happen to play on the piano. + +_Bev._ I don't know that; I flatter myself I have seen something of the +world, and experience has specially taught me to beware of the man who +plays the piano. + +_Mar._ Mamma, dear, will you hand me those scissors? + +_Mad. L._ Yes, my child. [_Perceives MANUEL'S portfolio._] Whose +drawing-book is this? + +_Mar._ That? oh! that is the steward's--I saw it in his hand when he +came in. + +_Mad. L._ I positively must take a peep. Oh! De Bevannes, look! +beautiful! What a charming accomplishment it is to draw well. + +_Mar._ Yes, for an engineer, or a builder-- + +_Bev._ Or an actor-- + +_Mar._ Why gracious! Monsieur de Bevannes, you have said a good thing. + +_Bev._ Have I? Allow me to apologize. + +_Mar._ Not at all; it's your _first_ offence. + +_Mad. L._ How beautifully finished these groups are. + +_Bev._ Positively, they're not so bad. + +_Mad. L._ Bad! my dear sir; they're exquisite. Look, for instance at +that horse--is it not perfection? + +_Bev._ It would be, doubtless--only it happens to be a cow. + +_Mad.L._ A cow? + +_Bev._ I think so; horses don't go about with two horns. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ Your pardon, ladies; but I believe I left my drawing-book-- + +_Mad. L._ Allow me to return it, sir--and to thank you for an accident +which has afforded us much pleasure. + +_Man._ Madame, you are too kind--so kind, indeed, that you have too long +refrained from permitting me to commence my duties. With your consent, I +will at once set about them. Your farm at Langeot, of which you spoke to +me, is not more, I think, than a mile or two from this. I will walk over +there this afternoon, and-- + +_Mad. L._ Walk! over such a miserable bad road as it is. Indeed, sir, I +could not allow it. + + _Enter MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mad. A._ Hush! Pray, _pray_, not so much noise. My dear cousin has +composed himself to sleep. + +_Bev._ Noise! it appears to me we were pretty quiet. + +_Mad. A._ Ah, sir, you might think so; but the least sound jars upon +his poor nerves. [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] I never saw such a devil of a woman as this is, to +cry. + +_Man._ But I assure you, Madame, that I would rather walk. If I pretend +to be your steward--why steward I must be, and not fine gentleman. + +_Mad. L._ [_To_ MARGUERITE.] My dear, would it be proper to allow M. +Manuel to walk? + +_Mar._ I believe it is usual for the steward to do so. However, I see no +reason why he should not ride, if he chooses. There are plenty of horses +in the stable. + +_Mad. A._ Ah! [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ What's the matter, Madame? + +_Mad. A._ Talking of riding always overcomes me. + +_Bev._ Excuse my peculiar mode of expression--but you appear to me to +pass your life in being perpetually overcome. + +_Mad. A._ Women are but fragile flowers. [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ They seem to require a deal of water. + +_Mad. A._ But horses, sir--talking of horses, puts me in mind of a pet +I had. + +_Mad. L._ A pet horse, dear? + +_Mad. A._ No, love, a donkey. Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Now she's watering the donkey. + +_Mad. A._ I had the dear little creature for two years. Just long enough +to--pray listen, sir. [_To MANUEL._ + +_Man._ I beg your pardon, Madame--I'm all attention--I heard. The +creature had two ears just long enough-- [_All laugh._ + +_Mad. A._ No, no; I said I had him for two years--just a sufficient time +to love him like a child--when he died--died, sir, of one of those +diseases peculiar to that class of quadruped. + +_Man._ Children? + +_Mad. A._ No, sir, Donkies! Dear me, it was, Umph! let me see, you must +know, sir, what I mean? [_To BEVANNES._ + +_Bev._ Measles? + +_Mad. A._ No, no, but no matter; He died-- + +_Bev._ Peace to his ashes. But as you were saying, Madame Laroque, there +are plenty of horses in the stable, and, really, all but ruined for want +of exercise. + + _Enter DR. DESMARETS._ + +_Des._ Yes, that's what you'll _all_ be, if you continue to lounge away +the days as you do. + +_Mad. L._ Ah, Doctor, we've missed you dreadfully. + +_Des._ What's the matter? anybody sick? + +_Bev._ You ought to have been here just now, Doctor; Madame Aubrey has +told the most touching tale-- + +_Des._ Of a donkey? I know, I've heard it often. + +_Bev._ But with regard to a horse for M. Manuel. There's Black Harry-- + +_Des._ Black Harry! Nobody can ride the brute! He's perfectly +untameable! Why, de Bevannes, you tried it yourself and couldn't. + +_Bev._ Ahem! Oh--ah--yes, but I had no spurs. + +_Des._ Spurs! Why, you couldn't even get upon his back! + +_Bev._ Eh--why--no--not exactly--[_Aside_] Confound him! + +_Man._ [_To BEVANNES_] And is Black Harry so very unmanageable? + +_Bev._ 'Pon my word I don't see it. He has an insuperable objection to +being mounted, but if you can get upon his back, and _being_ on his +back, can _keep_ there, why, of course, it's a great point in your +favor. + +_Man._ [_Smiling._] Certainly an important one. + +_Des._ If you except a partiality for biting, and ditto for kicking, +occasionally shying, and always prone to running away, he's a pleasant +beast. + +_Mar._ But such a beauty! I never saw a horse I should like so much to +ride, if he were but properly broken. + +_Man._ [_To MAD. LAROQUE_] Madame, have I your permission? + +_Mad. L._ Certainly. [_MANUEL rings._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] What's he at now? + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +_Man._ Tell one of the grooms to saddle Black Harry. + +_Alain._ Sir! + +_Des._ What? + +_Mad. L._ No--no-- + +_Man._ [_To_ ALAIN.] Did you hear my order? + +_Alain._ Yes, sir. [_Aside._] There'll be work for the Doctor to-day. + + [_Exit._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Good. + +_Man._ Pray do not fear, Madame, I have been used to restive horses. +I'll just make his acquaintance now, and if I can succeed in gaining a +small portion of his esteem, I will do myself the honor of riding him +daily until he is fit for your daughter's use. + +_Des._ [_To BEVANNES._] What the devil made you mention that confounded +animal? You don't like the new steward, eh? + +_Bev._ Not particularly. + +_Des._ He's good looking. + +_Bev._ Inconveniently. + +_Des._ And you want his neck broken? + +_Bev._ No. But I should like his nose put out of joint. + +_Mad. L._ I do not think I ought to permit this. + + [_Noise below the terrace._ + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +_Alain._ The horse is ready, sir. + +_Bev._ I will lend you a pair of my spurs. Alain, get my spurs as you go +down. + +_Alain._ Very well, sir. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. L._ Let me entreat you, sir. + +_Man._ I do assure you, there is nothing to fear. With your good wishes +I am certain of success. [_Exit down steps._ + +_Des._ [_On a terrace._] Why, here are all the servants and grooms. +Quite an assemblage. + + _Noise--Cries of_ "Hold him," "Quiet, sir," "Out of the way," + "Stand clear," &c.--_Enter LADIES and MLLE HELOUIN._ + +_Des._ A nice, quiet animal. [_Leans over._] Manuel, my dear boy. Sir! +if you break your leg, you may mend it yourself--I won't. + +_Bev._ [_On a sofa._] Doctor, report progress. [_Aside._] I'll bet a +thousand francs he doesn't even mount him. + +_Mar._ [_Who has overheard him._] I'll take that bet, sir. + +_Bev._ Eh? oh! as you please Mademoiselle. + +_Des._ By the Lord, he's up! [_Noise as before--then shout._ + +_Bev._ In the air? + +_Des._ No, in the saddle. [_Noise again._] Ah, he's off! + +_Bev._ Off the horse? + +_Des._ No; off on a gallop. [_Noise gets more distant._] Egad! they're +all scampering after him. What's he doing now? The ditch! take care! + +_Mad. L._ He'll be killed. + +_Mad. A._ Oh! oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Mar._ The horse can never do it. [_Shouts distant._ + +_Des._ Ah! he's-- + +_Bev._ In it? + +_Des._ No, _over_ it! Back again! [_Shouts distant._] Here he comes. +Egad! Black Harry's had enough of it. [_Shouts approach nearer._ + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] There's some mystery about this man. He has hardly +arrived, when all eyes seem turned to him. There certainly _is_ a +mystery. + +_Mlle H._ It will be cleared up, Mademoiselle. + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +_Mar._ What do you mean? + +_Mlle H._ Hush! + +_Alain._ [_To BEVANNES._] Your spurs, sir. + +_Bev._ Oh! I hope they assisted him. + +_Alain._ Didn't want 'em sir. + + _Great shouting below--The ladies, who have been witnessing the + ride, crowd upon the terrace, waving their handkerchiefs, and + appear surrounding and congratulating MANUEL as he comes on up + steps._ + +_Des._ [_To BEVANNES._] Somebody's nose is out of joint. + + +END TABLEAU II. + + +Lapse of Three Months. + + + + +TABLEAU III. + + + _The Park of the Chateau Laroque. ALAIN discovered arranging + Portfolio and Drawing materials._ + +_Alain._ Now really I do thank Madame for deputing me to wait more +especially on Monsieur Manuel. Steward or no steward, he's a perfect +gentleman; of that there can't be a doubt. What a pity it is that +Mademoiselle Marguerite and he don't like one another. When he says +white, she says black. When she goes one way, he goes another, yet +everybody else likes him. M'lle Helonin, our Governess, is absolutely in +love with him, and the wonderful influence he has obtained over old +Mons. Laroque, in this short time, is unaccountable. He has hardly been +here three months, and they say that all the money will be left +according to his advice--but that's going rather far, even for gossip. +Well, now, his drawing materials are all ready for him, and--here he is +to employ them. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ Alain, did you, by chance, pick up a half finished letter +anywhere in my room? + +_Alain._ No, sir. + +_Man._ Strange! I commenced it yesterday, and left it on my table, +intending to finish it this morning. I have searched the room +thoroughly, and it is nowhere to be found. + +_Alain._ Was it of much importance? + +_Man._ Merely inasmuch as it related to family and business matters. It +was for the Doctor, in case he should call when I was from home. +However, let it go. I'll write another when I return. [_Sits down and +prepares drawing materials._] Did not Mademoiselle Marguerite go out on +horseback yesterday alone? + +_Alain._ Yes, sir. + +_Man._ How was it you did not follow her, as usual? + +_Alain._ Oh, sir, she often goes without me. She's a capital rider, and +she says, to be alone sometimes, makes her feel more self-dependent, and +you know, sir, it won't do to contradict her, for though a charitable, +kind-hearted, young lady, she's rather wilful, and terribly proud. + +_Man._ Somewhat, perhaps, but her general manner appears to me more the +result of a sad and gloomy thoughtfulness, than mere pride. + +_Alain._ Ah, well, I suppose, sir, that, like most young ladies of her +age, she's a little bit in love. + +_Man._ In love? + +_Alain._ Yes, sir, Monsieur de Bevannes has been paying her great +attention for some time past, and it would be a grand match, for, after +Monsieur Laroque, he is the richest gentleman in the neighborhood, and +of excellent family. Ah, sir, what a pity it is _you_ are not rich. + +_Man._ Why so, Alain? + +_Alain._ Because--no matter. Have you any orders for me, sir? + +_Man._ Merely to have a good look for that letter when you go to my +room. + +_Alain._ I certainly will, sir. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Married--married--and to _him_. Well, and why not? Fool that I +am! Despite of all that should preserve and fence my heart as with a +wall of steel, from every impulse which could induce forgetfulness of my +bitter lot, and the one sacred object of my life, still will that coward +heart indulge in dreams--wild dreams of one day laying its most precious +offerings at the feet which would but spurn them. + + _Enter M'LLE HELOUIN, with basket._ + +But I will conquer yet, and if the struggle be hard, the victory will be +the more worthy. + +_Mlle H._ [_Aside._] He is alone. Hitherto, I have kept his secret well; +whether I will continue silent, depends upon himself. Courage, and the +poor hireling may yet be a Marchioness. [_Comes down to him._] Oh! +Monsieur Manuel, how beautiful that is! You see, while you have been +painting the woods, I have been gathering flowers. You know we have a +ball to-night. + +_Man._ Indeed? I was not aware of it. + +_Mlle H._ You positively don't seem to know or care about anything that +goes on. You are worse than indifferent, you are unsociable-- + +_Man._ Pardon me, not unsociable. But I know my station, and think it +better not to risk being reminded of it. + +_Mlle H._ [_After a pause._] Monsieur Manuel-- + +_Man._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mlle H._ Have I ever offended you? + +_Man._ No, indeed. + +_Mlle H._ I have been vain enough to think, at times, that you had some +friendly feeling for me. + +_Man._ And so I have. It is but natural. Our fortunes and positions are +the same, or nearly so. Both dependent on the caprices of those who +employ us, both alone, friendless. This should create sympathy at least, +if not friendship. + +_Mlle H._ You would not fear, then, to tell me of my faults? + +_Man._ Not if you desired it. + +_Mlle H._ Indeed I do desire it. + +_Mlle H._ But I only know of one. + +_Mlle H._ Pray name it. Nay, I shall receive it as a kindness. + +_Mlle H._ Well, then I think you admit and encourage somewhat too great +a familiarity with the family in whose employment we are. Your motives +may be, indeed, I'm sure they _are_, perfectly innocent; still they will +not be so considered, for in this world, the unfortunate are always +suspected. + +_Mlle H._ True, true. Spoken with a delicacy and candor all you own--I +thank you sincerely--and you will always continue as now--my true +friend? + +_Man._ I shall feel honored in the title. + +_Mlle H._ A true--a _dear_ friend? + +_Man._ [_Aside._] What is she driving at? + +_Mlle H._ A friend that loves me? + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Hallo! we're getting tender! + +_Mlle H._ A friend that loves me, ardently--do you hear? + +_Man._ Distinctly. + +_Mlle H._ And do you comprehend? + +_Man._ [_Half aside._] I'm afraid I do. + +_Mlle H._ Do you remember the old nursery rhyme-- + + "Pluck from the flower its leafy store-- + Love me little, love me more; + Hearts change owners, yet combine, + If mine is yours, and yours is mine." + +Come, now, let us see if you know which line should be yours. Shall I +commence? + +_Man._ If you please. + +_Mlle H._ + + "Pluck from the flower it's leafy store--[_A pause._] + Love me little, love me more; [_A pause._] + Hearts change owners, yet combine, + If---- + +_Man._ I respectfully decline." + +_Mlle H._ [_Throwing away the flower, which she has been picking to +pieces_] Then, sir-- + + _Sees BEVANNES, who enters._ + +Indeed, I could look at it all day, it is so beautiful--but I positively +must go. Monsieur, an revoir. [_Aside to MANUEL, as she goes._] You have +misunderstood me. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Have I? Then I must be a greater fool than I thought. + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Pretty close quarters. What the deuce is that +governess after? And now for a little scientific pumping. [_Comes +down._] Ah, Monsieur Manuel, at your drawing, eh? Beautiful, beautiful, +indeed. + +_Man._ You flatter. + +_Bev._ Not at all--but to change the subject--by the by, do, I interrupt +your work? + +_Man._ Not in the least. + +_Bev._ Well, I was going to compliment you on the vast affection and +confidence you have inspired in poor old Laroque. + +_Man._ I believe he really has a kindly regard for me. + +_Bev._ Regard! my dear sir--you are absolutely wound around his heart. +His affection for his grand-daughter is very great, but no one has the +influence over him that you have. Now, in the strictest confidence, I'm +going to be very frank with you--and mark me well, you will not find it +to your disadvantage hereafter, if you are equally frank with _me_. + +_Man._ Really, I don't quite-- + +_Bev._ No; but you will presently. Without flattery, I think you-- + +_Man._ [_Referring to his picture._] Too green. + +_Bev._ Eh? Oh, exactly. I was about to say I think you, in every way, a +gentleman, therefore I don't hesitate to confide in you the fact that +yesterday, after dinner, I was just-- + +_Man._ [_To picture._] A little blue. + +_Bev._ Eh? Oh precisely. I was just on the point of proposing to Madame +Laroque for her daughter's hand, when it suddenly struck me that I +should possess a double claim, if I could, in the first place, influence +you enough in the young lady's favor to make it certain that the bulk of +Monsieur Laroque's property would be left to her. + +_Man._ Monsieur de Bevannes, you really very much over-rate-- + +_Bev._ Pray forgive me, but you hardly know yourself, the importance of +your good offices in this matter. I was going on to say that my marriage +with Marguerite is all but a settled affair, and, of course, it is my +duty to promote her interests in every possible way. I think you must +concede that? + +_Man._ Surely, but-- + +_Bev._Permit me. Now I wish to call to your mind that Madame Laroque, +though a worthy excellent woman, is one of very simple tastes and +habits, and, should too large a portion of the property be left to her, +it would tax and embarrass her to an extent that would be painful to my +feelings. I hope you appreciate my disinterestedness in the matter. + +_Man._ Oh, thoroughly! But I am still at a loss to imagine where my +interference would be either necessary or effectual. + +_Bev._ My dear friend-- + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Now _he's_ getting tender! + +_Bev._ One word from you as to the proper disposition of the money +would-- + +_Man._ Monsieur de Bevannes, let me end this at once, by telling you +that, in my opinion, any interference from me in the family affairs of +M. Laroque, would be a gross and unseemly abuse of his confidence. + +_Bev._ And this is the return you make for mine? + +_Man._ I did not solicit it, sir. + +_Bev._ Sir, permit me to take your hand. + +_Man._ Really-- + +_Bev._ You have stood the test, you are a noble fellow. You are-- + + _Enter MADAME AUBREY._ + +[_Aside._] There's Mrs. Waterspout, by jove! [_Aloud._] You seem puzzled +at my manner--I will take another opportunity of explaining. Suffice it +now to say you have _misunderstood_ me. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ My understanding seems to be terribly at fault to-day. + +_Mad. A._ [_Aside._] De Bevannes has left him. A good opportunity for +me. [_Comes down._] Beautiful! Exquisite indeed! + +_Man._ Madame-- + +_Mad. A._ Truly, each new picture you finish, is more lovely than the +last. Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Man._ What is the matter? + +_Mad. A._ The painting of that sheep's head-- + +_Man._ Yes, Madame-- + +_Mad. A._ Reminds me of my own portrait, taken in happier years, long +passed away. + +_Man._ But there are as happy ones in store for you, I hope. + +_Mad. A._ That will depend greatly upon you, Monsieur Manuel. + +_Man._ On _me_? + +_Mad. A._ Yes. Do you know, Monsieur Manuel, that I find my poor cousin +Laroque very much changed,-- + +_Man._ Indeed he is. + +_Mad. A._ And for the worse. In fact, he appears to me to be sinking +fast. + +_Man._ I'm afraid such is the case. + +_Mad. A._ How fond he is of you--you, it is well known, possess his +entire confidence. + +_Man._ I have been fortunate enough to make my poor services acceptable +to him. + +_Mad. A._ Now, just between ourselves, in the strictest confidence; do +you happen to be aware how the property will be left? + +_Man._ I do not, Madame. + +_Mad. A._ I am in a state of painful apprehension, lest the dear old +gentleman should over-estimate the desires and requirements of Madame +Laroque, and should, therefore, curtail any little legacy coming to +_me_, to make _her_ portion larger, which would be absolutely throwing +money away. I hope you understand my entire want of selfishness in this +matter? + +_Man._ I think I do. + +_Mad. A._ I was sure you would. Now, if you will use your power and +settle this affair to my advantage, all I can say is, so noble an action +would not go unrewarded. + +_Man._ I should hope not. + +_Mad. A._ You will find me _substantially_ grateful; you understand me? + +_Man._ Entirely. + +_Mad. A._ And I you? + +_Man._ Not quite; but in order that you may--I must tell you, +Madame--that when you offer me money to rob your benefactor, and mine, +you entirely and totally mistake the person you are addressing. + +_Mad. A._ Oh! oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Man._ It grieves me to be so abrupt, but-- + +_Mad. A._ It is not that, it is not that--but, to be thought capable of +such--to be accused--oh, sir! you have cruelly _misunderstood_ me. + + [_Exit, weeping._ + +_Man._ Another misunderstanding! That makes three friends I have secured +this morning. One or two more of the same sort, and my business here +will be soon finished. + + _Enter MLLE HELOUIN._ + +_Man._ Here comes the first misunderstanding again. + +_Mlle H._ M. Manuel, I thought you might like to know that the Doctor +has just arrived-- + +_Man._ Thank you--I'll go to him at once. [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ So eager to avoid me. Have a care, my lord Marquis--spite of +my insignificance, you may learn to rue the day you made me conscious of +it. + + _Enter BEVANNES._ + +And here is one on whom, if I don't very much mistake, I may rely for +aid. + +_Bev._ Upon my honor, Mademoiselle, you make quite a pretty picture--a +wood nymph's reverie; sweet subject, now, for the pencil of our friend, +the steward. + +_Mlle H._ Our friend, the steward, as you term him, has loftier subjects +for his pictures, either aerial or substantial. + +_Bev._ Really! + +_Mlle H._ And in the former quality his aspirations are sublime. + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle, you are an entertaining person, but I never guessed +a conundrum in my life. + +_Mlle H._ In plain terms, then, this romantic gentleman aspires to +create an interest in the heart of Marguerite. + +_Bev._ O come! I can stand a great deal, but that's rather _too_ good. + +_Mlle H._ But if I can prove it? + +_Bev._ The thing is too absurd. + +_Mlle H._ I have just parted from Madame Aubrey. + +_Bev._ I congratulate you. + +_Mlle H._ You jest, M. de Bevannes, but you may one day wake to find the +steward rather a dangerous person. Madame Aubrey has picked up a letter +of his, which was blown out of the window of his room, into the park. +Would you like to see it? + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle, I don't pretend to more virtue than my neighbors, +but if I can only get at facts by reading another man's letters, I'm +afraid I shall remain in ignorance. + +_Mlle H._ Marguerite is coming. Would you like to hear the communication +I have to make? + +_Bev._ The contents of the letter? + +_Mlle H._ No, but still a somewhat startling discovery. + +_Bev._ On the whole, I think I'll take my departure; for when there's +mischief to be concocted, and two women to brew it, it would be the +grossest vanity in any man to think he could improve the cookery. + + [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ Now if I can instill but one small drop of the poison called +suspicion, her proud, impetuous spirit, will complete the work itself. + + _Enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ Really, a very touching scene. The affection existing between the +good doctor and our steward is remarkable. If he had been M. Manuel's +father, he could hardly have been more cordially received. + +_Mlle H._ And I assure you that M. Manuel's father could not serve him +at this moment as the doctor can. + +_Mar._ My dear governess, you seem to know more of this young man than +you choose to reveal. I remember well your mysterious words to me the +day he first rode and conquered that horse. + +_Mlle H._ Perhaps I have been to blame for having remained silent so +long. But right or wrong, I have, until now, looked upon it as a duty to +keep this person's secret inviolate. + +_Mar._ His secret! + +_Mlle H._ Nor would I reveal it now, but that his base intentions are no +longer doubtful, and silence would be criminal. However, I must exact +your promise that the knowledge of it shall remain, for the present, +between ourselves. + +_Mar._ You have my word. Proceed. + +_Mlle H._ Four years ago, when you were in Paris--you are aware that I +was in the habit of visiting some of my old friends at my former school? + +_Mar._ I remember. + +_Mlle H._ Well, I often saw there this very M. Manuel. He visited the +school to see his little sister. His father was the well known Marquis +de Champcey. + +_Mar._ Ah! + +_Mlle H._ It was the talk of the school that the family were even then +much reduced. Now, they are totally ruined. The father is dead, and the +son has, through the good offices of a friend, been placed in a position +to regain the fortune he has lost. By what means I leave to your +penetration to discover. + +_Mar._ And is it so! [_A pause._] But, after all, the conduct of this +young man in no way justifies suspicion. I see him but seldom. In truth, +he actually avoids me. + +_Mlle H._ Of course he does. Reserve creates inquiry, inquiry, interest. +Oh, he has been well tutored. + +_Mar._ Enough. I thank you sincerely for the warning. But relieve your +mind of all anxiety; I shall know how to deal with this conscientious +gentleman, be assured. + +_Mlle H._ Indeed I feel the happier that I have at last confided this +fact to you. Ah, my child, to what snares, what treachery, what deceit, +does the possession of wealth expose the innocent. The thought of them +makes the poor governess almost contented with her humble lot. Come, +shall we walk towards the house? As we go, I shall be able to bring to +your recollection many circumstances, trifling in themselves, but which, +when considered in connection with what I have now told you, will serve +to bring full conviction to your mind. + + [_Exeunt MARGUERITE, leaving her basket of flowers on the bank._ + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ And now, having enjoyed the honor of a tete-a-tete with each of +those most interested in inquiring into matters upon which I'm strictly +determined to be silent, I presume I shall be permitted to continue my +work undisturbed. [_He has reseated himself at his drawing._ + + _MARGUERITE re-enters to find her basket. He rises. She merely + looks haughtily at him and, in carrying off the basket, lets a + rose fall on the ground._ + +_Man._ Really, her manner is more than haughty. 'Tis almost rude. [_He +picks up the flower._] I suppose now, she'd grudge me this poor flower, +yet who, though loving wildly and hopelessly as I do, would not think it +a fair prize? No, I will return it. I will not be guilty of one action +which shall give my heart the power to whisper "Thus should'st thou not +have done." + + _Re-enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] As I supposed. Have the kindness, sir, to return me +that flower. I am not in the habit of presenting boquets to--gentlemen. + +_Man._ Under which conviction, Mademoiselle, I was on the point of +bringing it to you. + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] Oh! for some way to make him feel how I despise him. +Do you know, M. Manuel, seeing so little of you, lately, I was under the +impression that death had deprived us of another steward-- + +_Man._ Highly flattered that you should condescend to be under any +impressions concerning so insignificant a person. + +_Mar._ I thought that so gifted a gentleman could hardly do anything +without a motive, and now I am informed that your absence is +attributable to the fact that you spend all your evenings with our noble +relative, Mademoiselle Delonnais. + +_Man._ I certainly do, and I deny myself that pleasure the less because +the lady happens to be old enough to be my grandmother. Her ancestors +reigned here formerly, and she--the last of a noble race--poor and +infirm, bears so well the dignity of her name, her age, and her +misfortunes, that I feel almost a filial affection for her. Besides, it +was your mother who first introduced me to her. + +_Mar._ Oh! no one means to reproach you; on the contrary, I dare say +Madame Laroque is obliged to you for your attention to the good old +lady. + +_Man._ You may remember, too, it was your wish-- + +_Mar._ Oh, if you want praise or admiration from me, you must be content +to wait. Though young, I have some experience of life. I know that there +are two motives to most human actions. I know that M'lle Delonnais has a +small independence. I know she has no heir, therefore a little extra +attention and-- + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, permit me to express for you my sincere pity. + +_Mar._ Sir! + +_Man._ Permit me to express for you my sincere pity. + +_Mar._ Your pity? + +_Man._ Yes, madame--if unjust suspicion be the bitter fruit of +experience in one so young. Nothing can merit more compassion than a +heart withered by misbelief, almost before it has begun to exist. + +_Mar._ Are you aware of what you say, sir? Are you aware to whom you +speak? + +_Man._ Entirely conscious, Mademoiselle, of both. + +_Mar._ [_Bitterly._] Perhaps you expect me to ask your pardon? + +_Man._ Assuredly I do. Wealth can afford to humble itself--poverty +cannot. + +_Mar._ [_As she is going, turns with a haughty humility._] Then, sir, +I ask your pardon. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Oh! my sister, my darling Rose! It needs all my love for thee +to make endurance of these insults less than cowardice! Coldness and +antipathy have increased to absolute hate and persecution. She is +determined to drive me hence. She will succeed at last, and then-- + + _Enter DOCTOR DESMARETS._ + +Ah! my dear Doctor! + +_Des._ I've eaten some lunch, had the dust brushed off, and now I'm +going to brush some more on. + +_Man._ How so? + +_Des._ Just got a letter--patient very sick--twenty miles ride there and +back. Pleasant life, a doctor's. + +_Man._ Where is it? + +_Des._ About four miles beyond the ruins of Elfin. + +_Man._ The ruins of Elfen. + +_Des._ Yes; but what's the matter with you? you look feverish and queer. +Anything wrong between you and the family? + +_Man._ Why, no. But-- + +_Des._ But--what? They tell me you're quite a great man here--old +Laroque can't live without you--angry because you don't spend all your +evenings at the Chateau--and the ladies, without exception, are crazy +about you. + +_Man._ Pardon me--there's one _important_ exception--Mlle Marguerite. + +_Des._ What the devil! You don't mean to tell me you can't agree with +_her_. + +_Man._ I do assure you--she loses no opportunity to humiliate, and even +openly insult me. Indeed, it has lately become insufferable--so that I +am going to tax your friendship once more, to seek for me some other +employment. + +_Des._ Now don't be hasty, my dear boy. By Jove! here she comes--no she +don't--she perceives you--and there she goes. She don't escape _me_ +though. + +_Man._ Nay, my dear doctor, I beg of you-- + +_Des._ Stuff! nonsense! I'll just give her a piece of my mind. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ I very much fear the Doctor's zeal in my cause will lead him into +trouble with this proud girl--but I am resolved. Here, I will not, _can_ +not remain. Rose, my darling, thy marriage dowry must be sought and won +elsewhere. I will at once visit my poor old friend, and say farewell. +Marguerite I will see no more--no faltering now--a good resolve once +taken, action should be speedy. To-night the horse I have almost learned +to love, because she would one day ride him, shall bear me for the last +time. [_Exit._ + + _The DOCTOR and MARGUERITE are heard outside--then enter._ + +_Des._ Can't help it, if I _do_ offend you. The young man is my friend-- + +_Mar._ Doctor-- + +_Des._ My friend, Mademoiselle--and I never desert a friend, even though +he has incurred the displeasure of your proud ladyship. + +_Mar._ Do you not regard _me_ as a friend? + +_Des._ I should rather think so; known you since you were a baby; +disposition altered since then-- + +_Mar._ For the better? + +_Des._ Don't know that. When you are angry now it's a storm--_then_ it +was only a squall. + +_Mar._ This is no jesting matter. Doctor Desmarets, I have always +considered you a man of honor. + +_Des._ Much obliged to you. I've been under the same impression myself. + +_Mar._ What then is the meaning of this plot! + +_Des._ Plot! + +_Mar._ This young man, this steward you have so kindly supplied us with, +he has been recognized. He is known! + +_Des._ Well, suppose he is; what of it? + +_Mar._ Why does he bear a false name? + +_Des._ He don't. + +_Mar._ Doctor-- + +_Des._ Manuel is his Christian name. I suppose he may make what use of +it he pleases. Whether he puts it first or last, is nobody's business +but his own. + +_Mar._ His motive? + +_Des._ His motive, Mademoiselle, is worthy of himself, and proceeds from +a sense of honest pride, which many would do well to imitate. He is a +gentleman, and a man of honor, reduced to sudden poverty, and compelled +to labor for a livelihood. Now, I'm not acute enough to perceive any +_plot_ in all this. But I _do_ perceive that you are doing your best to +drive him from this place. + +_Mar._ Doctor, your word is enough. I believe you, and I thank you. Oh, +it is so sad to look only on the gloomy side of things. I thank you _so_ +much, and never liked you half so well as I do to-day. + + [_While speaking this speech, she searches for the rose she has + taken from MANUEL, and, on finding it, places it in her bosom._ + +_Des._ No? + +_Mar._ No! + +_Des._ What a pity-- + +_Mar._ Eh? + +_Des._ That I can't stay to luxuriate in your friendship. I have only +time to say good-bye to your mother, then I must be off. + +_Mar._ Well, now, I'll tell you what I'll do. To prove I'm in earnest, +I'm going to take my horse, and bear you company part of the way. + +_Des._ My child, it will be dark before I get there. + +_Mar._ But there'll be a lovely moon, and I want to see the ruined tower +of Elfen by moonlight. So say no more, for I'm resolved. + +_Des._ Well, my experience, professional and personal, has taught me +that when a woman is determined-- + + _Enter MADAME LAROQUE--DE BEVANNES._ + +_Mad. L._ You are right, my dear Bevannes, I confess it. + +_Bev._ Oh, there's no doubt he is, absolute perfection, the _rara avis_, +so long sought for, found at last. + +_Mad. L._ Laugh as you please, I positively adore him. + +_Bev._ You'll ask me to the wedding, I hope? + +_Mad. L._ Go along with you. Well, my child, have you persuaded that +obstinate man to stay till morning? + +_Des._ That obstinate man regrets he must go within the hour. + +_Alain._ [_without._] Go away, you troublesome little thing! + + _Enter CHRISTINE and ALAIN._ + +_Mad. L._ What's the matter? + +_Alain._ This little girl will insist on searching the park for some +gentleman she wishes to see, belonging to the Chateau. + +_Mad. L._ That will do--leave her here. [_Exit ALAIN._ + +_Bev._ Now small specimen of rustic humanity, what do you want? + +_Mad. L._ What is your name, little one? + +_Christine._ Christine, Madame. My grandfather-- + +_Bev._ Never mind your pedigree--which of us do you want? + +_Mad. L._ Be quiet. Well my dear? + +_Chris._ My grandfather is very old and blind, if you please, +and--and--oh! I want to see the _nice_, _good_ gentleman. + +_Des._ Bevannes, she don't want _you_. + +_Chris._ The _handsome_ gentleman. + +_Bev._ Doctor, she don't want _you_. + +_Chris._ Please, Madame, may I tell you what happened yesterday? + +_Mad. L._ Yes, child, go on. + +_Chris._ My grandfather has a dog that leads him about--poor old +Spot--such a pet-- + + _Enter MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mad. A._ A pet! are you talking of a pet? + +_Bev._ Yes; but don't weep, Madame--it isn't a donkey. Go on, little +girl. + +_Chris._ Well, yesterday, we three--grandfather, Spot and I, were +sitting near the stream, in the village, by the mill-dam, when some +wicked boys--oh! such dreadful wicked boys, came by. They seized poor +Spot and threw him into the water. He was nearly being crushed by the +mill-wheel, when a dear, kind gentleman, who was riding by on a +beautiful black horse-- + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +Oh! there he is. Oh, sir! I'm so glad I've found you. + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Oh, confound it! what brings you here, you little +pest? + +_Chris._ Don't be angry, sir--you rode away so fast, yesterday, I had no +time to thank you, and I wish to do so now. + +_Bev._ Beautiful subject for a nautical drama: "The Desperate Diver; or, +The Drowning Dog of the Dam." + +_Man._ Ridiculous enough, I admit. However, I did jump into the water +after poor Spot. + +_Chris._ You did, you did, indeed! Ah! sir, [_to_ BEVANNES,] you +laugh--but perhaps if you were old and blind, you wouldn't think it such +a joke. + +_Bev._ I assure you, my dear, it would have given me infinite pleasure +to have saved your dog. + +_Des._ You save a dog? Why you can't swim. [_All laugh._ + +_Bev._ Here are ten francs, child, go away. + +_Chris._ And now, sir, [_To_ MANUEL.] I'll go directly, if you'll give +me just one kiss. + +_Man._ [_Angrily._] Upon my word-- + +_Mad. L._ Now I insist upon it you do. Poor little thing, I'm sure she +deserves it. + +_Man._ [_Laughing._] Well, then, [_Kisses her._] now, go home, there's +a dear. + +_Chris._ Oh! I will, I will, good-bye. + +_Mad. L._ Well, haven't you got one for me? + +_Chris._ Oh, dear, yes, Madame. [_Kisses MAD. L._ + +_Bev._ You're forgetting your money. + +_Chris._ Oh, dear, no, sir. [_Takes it and curtsies._ + +_Bev._ Now a kiss for me? + +_Chris._ Oh, dear, no, sir! + + [_Curtsies and exits. All laugh except MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mad. A._ Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ Weeping for my disappointment, Madame? + +_Mad. A._ No--sir--no. + +_Mad. L._ A most interesting little girl. + +_Mad. A._ That's it, that's it. She reminds me of a circumstance that +occurred in my youth, before my marriage. You must know I had a little-- + +_Des._ Hallo! [_Takes MARGUERITE hastily up stage._ + +_Bev._ Ahem! [_Takes MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Mad. A._ Eh! What! [_Calling after them as they go off._] You don't +understand me! A little _niece_--Oh! this is too dreadful! + + [_Sinks into chair._ + + +END OF TABLEAU III. + + + + +TABLEAU IV. + + + _Interior of a room in the Tower of Elfen. A large breach in the + wall at back, through which the distant country is dimly seen. + Night coming on._ + + _YVONNET discovered upon the balcony, listening. Singing in the + distance. When the singing is done, Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ What are you at there, my good fellow? + +_Yvonnet._ [_Startled._] I was listening to the singing, sir. + +_Man._ Who are the singers? + +_Yvon._ The reapers, sir, returning home. + +_Man._ You, I suppose, are the keeper of these ruins? + +_Yvon._ Yes, sir. I am the shepherd that minds the sheep, and shows the +tower to strangers. [_Shows key._ + +_Man._ [_Giving money._] There. + +_Yvon._ Thank you, sir. + +_Man._ Are you never afraid here all alone? + +_Yvon._ Afraid! No, indeed. That is, not in the day-time, but at night-- + +_Man._ Ah, ah, then you have fairies, or spirits, or ghosts here, eh! + +_Yvon._ [_Disdainfully._] Sir, do you take me for a superstitious fool! +It's all very well for people who don't know any better, but I-- + +_Man._ Then you do not believe in anything of the kind? + +_Yvon._ I should think not, indeed. But if you come to talk about the +white lady, that's quite another matter. + +_Man._ Oh! so there's a white lady, is there? + +_Yvon._ Yes, sir, there is indeed, and she walks about on the top of +that tower over there, and where there are no stairs either. But she +is never seen in the day, only in the night, when it is quite dark. + +_Man._ [_Laughing._] Yes, she is seen when it is too dark to see. + +_Yvon._ [_Looking out._] Ah! Confound those sheep, at their old tricks +again. [_Shouts._] Hi! Hi! I don't believe there's such a troublesome +set of brutes in the whole country, always climbing where they have no +business. Hi! Hi! [_Throws a stone._ + +_Man._ Why don't you jump down there? + +_Yvon._ Try it yourself, if you want to break your neck, my fine +gentleman. Are you going to stay long? It is getting late. + +_Man._ Don't be uneasy, I shall go presently. + +_Yvon._ The sooner the better. I ain't a coward, but I feel more +comfortable away from here. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ This is a fine old ruin. How is it that I have never found it out +before? I must bring my sketch-book here some day. Alas! I forgot that +for me there is no future here, to-morrow--'Tis but a sad farewell that +I must bid the scenes I had begun to love so well. Wretched heart! Is +it, then, because reason, honor, everything, forbids my loving her +that--Ah! were I not the guardian of an existence more precious than my +own, I should long ago have fled this torture! [_Goes up._ + + _Enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ This is most fortunate, when the moon rises the view will be +charming. [_Suddenly sees MANUEL._] Sir, I beg your pardon. I was not +aware, indeed-- [_Going._ + +_Man._ Excuse me, Mademoiselle, I am not at home here--permit _me_ to +retire. [_Going._ + +_Mar._ [_Crossing._] Stay, sir. As we happen to be alone, will you +answer me fully and frankly, one question. They tell me my manner +towards you is abrupt, unkind, even at times, offensive. + +_Man._ I have never complained. + +_Mar._ But you would leave us? + +_Man._ Mademoiselle. + +_Mar._ And they say that I am the cause. Your departure, sir, would +occasion my mother sincere sorrow, which I am anxious to spare her, if +it be in my power; but I am at a loss to know what explanation to make +you--what am I to say? that the language which has offended you, is not +always sincere--that perhaps, after all, I myself can appreciate joys +and pleasures more exalted than those which the mere possession of +wealth can give. Well, it is possible--but am I so much to blame, that I +use my powers to stifle thoughts which are forbidden me. + +_Man._ Forbidden? + +_Mar._ Yes, forbidden. It may, perhaps, appear like affectation, to +complain of a destiny which so many envy--but, like my mother, I believe +that were I less rich, I should be the more happy. You have reproached +me with my continual distrust. But in whom _can_ I trust? I, who from my +infancy have been surrounded--do I not know it too well--but by false +friends, grasping relatives, and suspicious suitors! Do you suppose that +I am weak and foolish enough to attribute to my own attractions, the +care, the solicitude, with which so many of these parasites surround me; +and even if a pure and noble heart, (should such a thing exist in this +world,) were capable of seeking and loving me for what I _am_--not for +what I _have_--I should never know it--[_with meaning_]--for I should +never dare the risk! And this is why I shun, repulse, almost hate, all +that is beautiful and good--all that speaks to me of that heaven, which +is, alas! forbidden me. [_The reapers are again heard singing in the +distance--with emotion and in an undertone._] What is that? + + [_Listens--lets her head fall upon her hands, and weeps._ + +_Man._ Tears! + +_Mar._ [_With transport._] Well, yes, I can weep. Enough--I did not +intend, sir, to burthen you with so much of my confidence; but now you +know me better. You see I have a heart, and if ever I have wounded +yours, I hope you will forgive me. [_Gives her hand, which he kisses, +respectfully._] See; the pledge of our friendship shall be this flower, +which I rudely demanded from you this morning. [_Gives rose._] Now let +us go, [_returning_,] and never let this subject be revived between us. + +_Man._ Never! + +_Mar._ But before I go, I must see the view from yonder height. + +_Man._ I beg you will not venture--do not run such a risk. + +_Mar._ Oh! I am not afraid. + +_Man._ At least take my hand, then. + + [_She mounts the platform outside of the window. It begins to grow + dark._ + +_Mar._ The height is fearful, but the view is very beautiful. I could +gaze on it forever. + + _Enter YVONNET. He looks round without seeing them._ + +_Yvon._ Ah! he's gone at last. I shan't be long in following him; I +don't like this place. [_Exit, locking door after him._ + + [_Night comes on, the moon lighting the scene beyond. MARGUERITE + comes down from tower, aided by MANUEL._ + +_Mar._ There comes the night, in good earnest; fortunately, the moon +will help us to regain our horses. Come, sir, let us hasten. + + [_Low music from orchestra. MANUEL tries to open door._ + +_Man._ That stupid fellow has fastened it while we were upon the tower. + +_Mar._ [_Anxiously._] Call to him, he cannot be far off. + +_Man._ [_Upon platform._] Hallo! Come back, will you? Now he sees me, +but he only runs the faster--takes me for the white lady, I suppose. +Confound the fool! + +_Mar._ [_Looking about._] No other means of egress! What is to be +done?--they will die with anxiety at home. + +_Man._ Stay! I can descend by those trees, perhaps-- + +_Mar._ 'Tis useless--there is an inclosed court-yard below. + +_Man._ It is in vain--this door resists all my efforts. I know not what +to do. [_While MARGUERITE has gone upon platform._ + +_Mar._ Great Heaven! I see it all. [_To MANUEL, with restrained +passion._] Marquis de Champcey! + +_Man._ [_Turns quickly._] My name! + +_Mar._ [_Slowly._] You boast a long ancestral descent. Pray tell me, +sir, are you the first _coward_ of your name? + +_Man._ Madame! + +_Mar._ [_Violently._] It is you--_you_ who have bribed this boy to +imprison us here! + +_Man._ Merciful Heavens! + +_Mar._ Ah, I comprehend your purpose. I understand it all. To-morrow +this _accident_ will be noised abroad; the ever-ready tongue of scandal +will be busy with my name, a name which, if less ancient than your own, +is full as stainless, and you trust to my despair to make me yours! But +this vile trick, which crowns all your base maneuvering, I will thwart. +I tell you, sir, that I would incur the world's contempt, the cloister, +anything--even death itself--rather than the disgrace, the ignominy, the +shame, of uniting my life to yours! + +_Man._ [_Calmly._] I entreat you to be calm. Call reason to your aid. I +understand and respect your distress, but let not your anxiety prompt +you to do me wrong. Consider! How could I have prepared such a snare, +and even were it in my power, how have I ever given you the right to +think me capable of such baseness? + +_Mar._ [_Passing L._] All that I know of you gives me that right. For +what purpose do you enter our house, under a false name, in a false +character? We were happy before you came. You have brought us sorrow, +misery, which we dreamed not of. To attain your object, to repair the +breach in your fortune, you have usurped our confidence, sported with +our purest and most holy sentiments. Have I not seen all this? And when +you now pledge to me your honor--that honor which was too poor and weak +to save you from these unworthy actions--have I not reason to doubt? +Have I not the right to scorn and disbelieve? + +_Man._ Marguerite, listen to me! I love you, it is true, and never did +love more ardent, more disinterested, more holy, live in the heart of +man. But here, with the eyes of Heaven upon us, I swear that, if I +outlive this night, all beloved as you are, were you upon your knees at +my feet, never would I accept a fortune at your hand. Never! My heart is +yours, yours to break, to crush, to trample in the dust, if it so please +you, but my honor, Madame, is my own and that I will preserve. And now +pray--pray for a miracle. It is time. [_Runs to the tower._ + +_Mar._ What would you do? God of mercy! You shall not--you shall not! + +_Man._ Think, Marguerite, your name! + +_Mar._ You shall not! Forgive me! _If you love me_, forget what I have +said, for pity's sake, for mine! + +_Man._ [_Disengaging himself._] Loose your hold. + + [_He repulses her, and leaps upon tower. Singing heard afar off._ + +_Mar._ [_Falling on her knees._] Manuel! Manuel! Madman! hear me. It is +death! + +_Man._ It is honor! [_Throws himself down._ + + [_MARGUERITE with a shriek, falls insensible._ + + +END OF TABLEAU IV. + + + + +TABLEAU V. + + + _Handsomely furnished Room in Chateau Laroque--Doors R. and L., + and U.--Candles lit._ + + _DE BEVANNES, MAD. LAROQUE, MAD. AUBREY, ALAIN, MLLE HELOUIN + discovered--MAD. LAROQUE is walking about in much agitation._ + + +_Mad. L._ [_To ALAIN._] You say she went out on horseback? + +_Alain._ Yes, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ Did she say at what hour she would be back. + +_Alain._ No, Madame. + +_Bev._ Did she not tell you she would be early in the ball-room this +evening? + +_Mad. L._ She did; and that only makes me the more apprehensive. This +anxiety is torture. + +_Bev._ Be assured, Madame, she is safe. You know she is often out late +on fine evenings. + +_Mad. L._ But never after dark. Can nobody even tell which way she went? + +_Mlle H._ There is one person, I think, might give us some information. + +_Mad. L._ Oh! who? Why did you not say so before? + +_Mlle H._ I have no doubt M. Manuel could enlighten us, if he chose. + +_Mad. L._ Monsieur Manuel! what should _he_ know about it? + +_Bev._ Exactly. I do not clearly perceive why the steward must be better +informed of the young lady's movements, than her mother. + +_Mlle H._ Nor I. Yet I think it would be worth while to ask him. + +_Mad. L._ Alain, ask Monsieur Manuel, if he will be so good as to come +to me, at once. + +_Alain._ Monsieur Manuel has also gone out on horseback, Madame, and has +not yet returned. + +_Mlle H._ Ahem! + +_Mad. A._ Ah, ha! + +_Bev._ And pray, at what time did he go out? + +_Alain._ Just before Mademoiselle Marguerite, sir. [_A pause._ + +_Mad. L._ You are all marvellously silent! What do you imagine? what do +you infer? Speak, if you would not drive me mad! Still silent! [_To MLLE +HELOUIN._] Mademoiselle, your looks convey some hidden meaning. [_To +MAD. AUBREY._] Cousin. + +_Mad. A._ Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Mad. L._ What's the use of that, Madame? speak out. I always knew you +were a fool--don't make me think you are a complete idiot! Bevannes, +_what_ does all this mean? + +_Bev._ Alain. + +_Alain._ Sir? + +_Bev._ Did Mademoiselle go out alone? + +_Alain._ No, sir; with the Doctor. + +_Mad. L._ Ah! then all is well. + +_Bev._ Humph! + +_Mad. L._ Bevannes, what _do_ you mean? will you explain or not? + +_Mlle H._ Madame, your generous nature and partiality for the steward, +has somewhat blinded your judgment; those who love you have been more +watchful. This Monsieur Manuel is-- + + _Enter MANUEL--His dress disordered--His face pale, with slight + marks of blood upon his forehead._ + +_Man._ Here, Madame, you did me the honor to send for me. + +_Mlle H._ You have just returned, sir? + +_Man._ This moment--I met Alain on the stair. + +_Mad. L._ But you are hurt, Monsieur--there's blood upon your forehead. + +_Man._ Nothing of importance, I assure you; the horse fell with me, and +got a few scratches--nothing more--a little cold water will set all to +right. + +_Mad. L._ This seems to be a night of misfortunes. + +_Mad. A._ [_Sighs._] Ah! + +_Mad. L._ _Do_ be quiet. + +_Man._ What has happened, Madame? + +_Mad. L._ Marguerite went out on horseback just after you, and has not +yet returned. + +_Man._ Oh, don't be alarmed--I met her. + +_Mad. L._ Oh! when? where? + +_Man._ About six o'clock, on the road to Elfen--she told me she was +going on to look at the ruins. + +_Mad. L._ Good heavens! the ruins are in the midst of the forest, and +the roads dreadful! She must have lost her way! Alain! + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +Order the carriage. [_Exit ALAIN._] I will send directly--I will go +myself. + +_Man._ You may rest certain, Madame, that you will find her. In the +meantime, I will get rid of the evidences of my trifling fall. Be +assured your daughter is quite safe. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. L._ Come, Bevannes, order your horse, and ride by the carriage. + +_Bev._ Thank you, but, with your permission, I'll ride _in_ the +carriage. The road _is_ a bad one, and if one horse stumbles, another +may. + +_Mad. L._ Well, well, any way you please, only come. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. A._ Ah, poor girl, poor girl-- [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ Don't be so distressed, Madame. It's not your little niece. + +_Mad. A._ Monsieur de Bevannes, you are a brute! + +_Bev._ So is a donkey, Madame, and yet one died rich in your affection. +Ah, if I could only have inherited a portion of his wealth. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. A._ I wonder if he means that. He never said anything so civil +before. I've a great mind to-- [_Going._ + +_Mlle H._ Stay--that letter of the steward's which you found in the +park-- + +_Mad. A._ Well? + +_Mlle H._ Have you got it with you? + +_Mad. A._ Of course. + +_Mlle H._ Give it to me. + +_Mad. A._ To _you_! Why? + +_Mlle H._ No matter. Suffice it that my hopes, and yours--the very life +of all our plans--depend on the use I shall make of that letter. + +_Mad. A._ Oh, well, take it. [_Gives letter._] I'm sure you'll make much +better use of it than I can. [_Aside._] Upon my life I'll go and ask +Bevannes what he meant by that. [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ Why, why did nature endow me with a heart to suffer, an +intellect to comprehend? Had I been born a fool, like that woman, this +dependent state would have brought with it calm endurance, if not +happiness. But, as I _am_, it is misery. How easy is bounty to the rich. +How natural is virtue to the happy. He heard my words as he came +in--must have divined their purport. Well, well, if I have taught him to +despise me, he shall learn to fear me, too. He dared to read me a +lesson, and I hate him for it, even though I profit by it. If I must +fall, he shall share the ruin he has caused. + + _Enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ Helouin! + +_Mlle H._ Marguerite! + +_Mar._ Hush! To prevent remark, I came by the small stairway, through +the conservatory. My mother has been anxious? + +_Mlle H._ Much alarmed. She has gone to seek you. + +_Mar._ I know it. I have sent Alain to overtake and bring her back. +Before she comes, I have a word to say to you. It is of Monsieur Manuel. +I have strong reason to believe that you have most strangely misjudged +his character and his intentions. + +_Mlle H._ I know him to be the Marquis de Champcey. + +_Mar._ And _I_ know that if his birth be noble, his heart is no less so. + +_Mlle H._ It is very recently, then, that you have made the discovery. + +_Mar._ True. Now mark. You have seen the ruins of Elfen? + +_Mlle H._ I have. I was once there with a party, and was the only woman +who dared ascend the tower. + +_Mar._ You know the danger, then. Well, I care not now if all the world +should hear it. We were alone. By accident, imprisoned in those ruins. I +rashly, blindly, _falsely_ accused him, and he, to save my honor and his +own, plunged from that tower in to the gulf beneath! + +_Mlle H._ But he escaped. + +_Mar._ I know it and have thanked God for the miracle. I had not +strength to implore. + +_Mlle H._ Upon my word, this is an extraordinary man. + +_Mar._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mlle H._ And understands so well how to turn his talents to the best +account. Why, poor child, and you don't see through all this? Yesterday +it was a swimming match, producing an admirably planned and effectual +scene. To-night, it is an exhibition of daring activity. The gentleman +has been brilliantly educated. + +_Mar._ You evidently hate him. + +_Mlle H._ And why? On my own account? No! What is he to _me_? But when I +see that he dares to bring his plots and machinations here, and intends +you for their victim, I am free to confess, I _do_ despise and hate +him! + +_Mar._ These are grave accusations. What proof have you to support them? + +_Mlle H._ Ah, you suspect me. For the sake of this stranger, you doubt +the truth of one you have known for years? Well, be it so--I will give +you proof, since you demand it. Do you know his handwriting? + +_Mar._ I do. I have had to look over many papers he has copied for my +mother. + +_Mlle H._ Look at that letter. Now listen: [_Reads._] "_My dear +Desmarets: I follow your instructions exactly. But will they avail to +win for me the bright reward for all I have to endure. I do not think +the dowry wilt be as large as I had hoped._-- + +_Mar._ Great Heavens! + +_Mlle H._ "_But I have sworn to win it, and though there are many +obstacles here to make the task a hard one, yet, to achieve it, I will +serve, like Jacob, for forty years, if need be_--What a pity he did not +finish it. This was found under the window of his room by Madame Aubrey +and, by her, handed to me. + +_Mar._ Enough. My resolution is taken. + + _Enter MADAME LAROQUE and BEVANNES._ + +_Mad. L._ Oh, my dear child! What a state I have been in about you. How +did you get back? What happened? + +_Mar._ The shepherd, who locks up the tower of Elfen, happened to fasten +it before I left. Some reapers returning home, heard my cries and +brought him back to release me, that is all. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Mad. L._ Ah, Monsieur, you have recovered from the effects of your +fall, I hope? + +_Man._ Entirely, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ [_To MARGUERITE._] But you, my child, must be fatigued, +nervous-- + +_Mar._ On the contrary, dearest mother, I never felt better or more +cheerful than to-night, which I will prove to you whenever the ball +commences. + +_Bev._ The ball! why, surely, you'll never think of-- + +_Mar._ Dancing? Indeed but I shall though--and you, M. de Bevannes, +will be my first partner, will you not? + +_Bev._ With the greatest delight--but pray, let me advise-- + +_Mar._ Advise nothing--you shall be my chief cavalier for the evening. + +_Bev._ But my dress-- + +_Mar._ Your residence is hardly two miles from this; you can go home, +dress, and be here again--all within an hour. + + [_Speaks to MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] This anxiety portends something. Bevannes, my boy, the +chase is nearly over, for the quarry is in sight. + +_Mar._ Nonsense, my dear mother! I will have my own way for once. + +_Mad. L._ For _once_! + +_Mar._ My carriage shall take M. de Bevannes, and bring him back. Where +are all the servants? Here, some one--oh! the steward! go and order my +carriage. + +_Mad. L._ [_Surprised at her tone of voice._] My dear. + +_Man._ [_Quietly rising and ringing a bell, which summons_ ALAIN, _who +enters_.] I believe Mlle Marguerite has some orders for you. + +_Alain._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mar._ I have none--you may leave the room. [_Exit ALAIN._ + +_Bev._ Come, come, this sort of thing won't do. + +_Mar._ Monsieur de Bevannes. + +_Bev._ As you please--but permit me to regret that I have not the right +to interfere here. + +_Man._ Your regret is unnecessary, sir--for if I did not see fit to obey +the lady's orders, I hold myself at yours. + +_Bev._ Enough, sir; I shall act accordingly. + +_Mad. L._ Gentlemen, I beg, I entreat-- + +_Mar._ Monsieur de Bevannes. + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle? + +_Mar._ Have the goodness to follow me--I must speak with you in the +presence of my mother only. Not a word, if you would ever speak with me +again--follow me now, at once. [_Exit with MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Bev._ [_To MANUEL._] I believe, sir, we comprehend each other? + + _MANUEL bows--Exit BEVANNES--MANUEL turns and encounters the look + of MLLE HELOUIN, who curtsies and exits._ + +_Man._ I see plainly now to whom I owe all this. Well, well, what +matters it to whom? The one thin ray of light upon my desolate and +gloomy path has vanished. Pshaw! This is no time for dreams or vain +regrets. [_Rings._ + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +Has Dr. Desmarets returned? + +_Alain._ No, Monsieur. + +_Man._ The moment he arrives I must see him. + +_Alain._ I know--I know all about it. I overheard. Oh, sir, this is most +unfortunate. + +_Man._ It is, but unavoidable. I did not seek it-- + +_Alain._ And that devil of a Bevannes is a fine swordsman, and the best +pistol-shot in Brittany. + +_Man._ So much the better. The contest will be the more equal. + +_Alain._ Indeed! + +_Man._ I have had much practice with both weapons. + +_Alain._ Oh then, pray do me one favor, sir. Don't kill him, but hit him +in the leg. He's so deuced proud of his leg and foot. + +_Man._ There, that will do. Let me know the instant the Doctor arrives. + +_Alain._ I will sir, I will, but don't forget. Pray don't forget the +leg--the leg, sir, if you love me. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ For myself, it matters not, but my sister, my little darling, +helpless sister--should I fall--Oh! Heaven, let my errors be so atoned, +and look down in pity on the orphan child, bereaved of earthly succor, +to be the more dependent upon thine. + + [_As he raises his head, he perceives BEVANNES approaching, and + his bearing becomes calm and resolute._ + + _Enter BEVANNES._ + +_Bev._ Monsieur Manuel, can I have a few words with you? + +_Man._ I am at your service, sir. + +_Bev._ What I am about to say, considering our position, may seem +irregular, but I obey orders which cannot be disputed. Besides, I +believe no man can doubt my courage-- + +_Man._ Not I, be assured, sir. + +_Bev._ To be brief, I am commissioned by the ladies to express their +regret for what has just occurred. M'lle Marguerite, in a moment of +forgetfulness, gave you certain orders, which it was plainly not your +province to fulfil. Your susceptibility was justly wounded. We admit +it, and-- + +_Man._ Not one word more, sir, I entreat. + +_Bev._ Your hand. [_MANUEL gives his hand._] The ladies also desire me +to express their hope that this momentary misunderstanding will not +deprive them of your good offices, the value of which they fully +appreciate, and I am extremely happy in having acquired within the last +few minutes, the right to join my entreaty to theirs. My most ardent +wish is about to be gratified. + +_Man._ Indeed? + +_Bev._ And I shall feel personally obliged if you will not refuse us +your aid upon the eve of an event which family affairs and the failing +health of old Monsieur Laroque compels us to hasten. + + _Enter ALAIN with a box containing deeds, &c._ + +Oh, thank you. Place it on the table. [_ALAIN does so and exits._] These +are the private papers and memoranda of Mons. Laroque, and the ladies +beg, as a proof of their entire confidence, that you will examine them +and take notes of such matters as will prove important to the marriage +contract. + +_Man._ I shall obey their orders to the best of my ability. + +_Bev._ Thank you, my dear fellow. I feel assured you will, and now, I +trust, we shall in future, understand one another better. I do not think +that, hitherto, either of us has formed a correct estimate of the other. +I protest to you that I'm disposed to like _you_ immensely. For myself, +I'm a very nice man, but I must be cultivated. Cultivate me, my dear +sir, and I give you my word you'll find me one of the most agreeable +fellows you ever knew; you will, indeed. Cultivate me, I beg. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Well, well. He is her equal in fortune, and therefore, of course, +above suspicion. Poor girl! She is unaware that, in this world the +greatest beggars are not, always the poorest. She would see how I can +support the torture she inflicts. She shall be gratified, for she shall +see me even at the foot of the altar. But she will not triumph there, +for her pride, lofty as it is, shall pale before my own. Now to my +work. [_Sits and turns over papers._] Nothing here that I have not +seen before. "Title Deeds to"--Umph! "Legacies to my children." +"Marriage portion for Marguerite" and--Ah! What's this? My name! +"The Antilles"--yes, I remember, our family had large estates there, +but that, was long ago. Let me see, let me see. [_He reads, and as he +does so his face expresses, first, surprise, and then conviction and +triumph._] Great Heaven! And can this be so? Miserable old man. This, +then, is the secret of your wanderings, your visions, and of my unsought +influence. And now, _now_ I have them in my power. They shall find that +there is still some blood left in the heart that they would crush. This +proud, unfeeling girl, has yet to learn the meaning of that bitter word, +_humility_, and she _shall_ learn it. [_MARGUERITE speaks without._ + +_Mar._ He will soon return, dear mother. Meantime I will prepare for the +ball. [_She enters, crosses slowly, and exit, after a look at MANUEL._ + +_Man._ No--no--I can _not_! Never, never, by my act, shall the blush of +shame crimson that noble face. Laroque cannot live long. Let his crime +and his confession die before him! [_Music._] To my deep love I +consecrate the sacrifice. + + _Burns paper. While he contemplates it burning, MADAME AUBREY looks + in unseen by him._ + + +SCENE II.--_A hall in the Chateau._ + + _Enter BEVANNES and ALAIN, meeting._ + +_Bev._ Alain, who arrived just now? + +_Alain._ The Doctor, sir. He's gone to Monsieur Laroque's room. + +_Bev._ Is Mademoiselle Marguerite's carriage ready for me? + +_Alain._ Quite ready, Monsieur. + +_Bev._ Very well. Tell the ladies I shall be back in an hour, at most. + +_Alain._ You'll have to drive fast, sir, to do it in the time. + +_Bev._ I shall make my toilette less perfect than usual, and take an +elaborate revenge another time. + + _Enter DESMARETS._ + +_Des._ Bevannes that you? where are you off to? + +_Bev._ Home, for a short time. + +_Des._ Better stay where you are--the ladies may want your assistance. + +_Bev._ I know--at the ball-- + +_Des._ Ball? stuff! If I don't mistake, you'll have something else +to think of. Alain, let that prescription be sent to the village +immediately. + +_Alain._ Yes, Doctor. [_Exit._ + +_Bev._ Why, what's the matter? + +_Des._ Old Laroque is very ill to-night. By the by, what's this he told +me about a marriage in the family? + +_Bev._ Quite true. The fair Marguerite has become alive to my +merits--she knows me at last. + +_Des._ And accepts you? + +_Bev._ Of course. + +_Des._ Little fool. + +_Bev._ Sir! + +_Des._ I don't mean _you_. + +_Bev._ Ah! + +_Des._ I tell you what, my friend, you hardly know what you've +undertaken. I wish you joy--I wouldn't have the management of girl for a +trifle. Ecod! if she takes a fancy to the _moon_, she'll expect you to +give it her. + +_Bev._ Oh, I'm not afraid. However, I'll go and dress, as it is her +wish, and take the chance of the ball coming off. + +_Des._ And you've determined to marry her? + +_Bev._ Most certainly. + +_Des._ Spite of all her caprices? + +_Bev._ Decidedly-- + +_Des._ And if she wants the moon-- + +_Bev._ She must fetch it herself. [_Exit._ + +_Des._ Queer match--what does it mean? As to her loving that fellow, I +don't believe a word of it. Now to the old man--it won't do to leave him +alone--he's got one of his wandering fits on him, and he'll be all over +the house if I don't look to him. What a nice quiet life a doctor's is. + + [_Exit._ + + +SCENE III.--_Same as First--Music._ + + _MANUEL discovered asleep--MAD. AUBREY opens door and looks in._ + +_Mad. A._ Worn out with the day's excitement, he's asleep at last. +[_Comes in._] What could that paper have been, I saw him burn? Ah! +there's the envelope he threw away, when he put it in the flame. +[_Picks it up._] So, so--what's that? a footstep. [_Exit._ + + _MONSIEUR LAROQUE opens door and looks in--He is very pale and + appears much exhausted--He looks back and beckons, as if to + followers--Music ceases._ + +_Lar._ This way--this way--quickly--but silently. Silently, men or +we shall spoil all. Remember, they are _English_, and spare not! no +quarter! no quarter, mind--but softly--softly--and fire not until I give +the word! Then--then--every drop of Saxon blood shall float a world of +crime from off my soul! One moment--_now! now!_ + + _He raises his arm, as if to strike, when he sees MANUEL, upon whose + face the lamp throws a powerful light--A pause._ + +Heaven have mercy! 'tis he. At such an hour as this I can _not_ be +mistaken! It is he--[_MANUEL awakes._]--My Lord Marquis! + + _MARGUERITE appears._ + +_Man._ What is this? + +_Lar._ Pity--pity--and forgive me. + + [_MANUEL all at once comprehending, advances to M. LAROQUE._ + +_Man._ Miserable man, I pity, and I forgive. + +_Mar._ What does this mean? + +_Man._ Oh, nothing, Mademoiselle, but I thought it better to humor his +delirium. [_LAROQUE staggers. MANUEL places him in chair._ + + _Enter ALAIN, DESMARETS, MADAME LAROQUE and MLLE HELOUIN._ + +_Mar._ Grandfather, dearest, speak to me--it is Marguerite, your child, +to whom you were always so good, who loves you so. You have some +thought, some remembrance which torments you. Is it not so? Tell me, +dearest, tell your own Marguerite. [_Music._ + + _LAROQUE looks up, makes one or two endeavors to speak, when his + head again falls on his breast._ + +_Mar._ Mother! mother! Oh Heavens! Can nothing be done? + + _DR. DESMARETS places his hand on LAROQUE'S heart, and looks at + MANUEL, who, in answer to an appeal from MARGUERITE and MADAME + LAROQUE, points upwards._ + + +END TABLEAU V. + + +Lapse of Some Months. + + + + +TABLEAU VI. + + + _Saloon in the Chateau Laroque splendidly decorated and furnished. + Arches R., L. and C. ALAIN and Servants discovered arranging + furniture, lighting lamps, &c._ [_Music._ + +_Alain._ There now. I think everything is pretty well arranged here, +so run away all of you and see to the preparations outside. [_Exeunt +servants._] 'Pon my life I'm nearly done up. All of a sudden to change a +house that has, for the last five months appeared like a mourning coach, +into a dandified, bright-looking mansion prepared for a marriage fete, +requires more inventive genius than ever I shall get credit for. If I +could only extend my transforming powers to the faces of the family, I +should be much gratified, for such a grim-looking household exists not +in Brittany at this moment. There's M'lle Marguerite. The nearer the +time approaches for the marriage, the paler she grows. Madame Laroque +does nothing but freeze and shiver, Mons. Manuel is absent for days +together, and Madame Aubrey weeps a good tea-cup full about every two +hours. Cheerful work, very. + + _Enter MADEMOISELLE HELOUIN._ + +_Mlle H._ Alain go and tell Monsieur Manuel I wish for a few moments' +conversation with him. + +_Alain._ Monsieur Manuel, M'lle? Why, bless you, he's been at Largeot +for the last three days. + +_Mlle H._ He has returned. I saw him ride into the court-yard some +fifteen minutes since. + +_Alain._ Where shall I tell him to come to you, Mademoiselle? + +_Mlle H._ Are all your preparations made here? + +_Alain._ Yes, Mademoiselle. I have sent the servants to other work. + +_Mlle H._ Request, Mons. Manuel, then, to see me here, and to come +instantly, as it is important I should speak to him at once. + +_Alain._ Very well, Mademoiselle. [_Exit._ + + _Mlle Helouin goes to Arches and ascertains that no one is near to + listen._ + +_Mlle H._ And now, Manuel Marquis de Champcey, we will try the issue. +How often and how vainly do I question my own heart. Were Manuel other +than he is, should I pursue him thus? What motive sways my action? Is it +love? Ambition? Both? I know not, and will not reflect. There lies the +path. Some resistless impulse urges me along, nor will I, _can_ I +swerve, till all is won or lost. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, good evening. Alain informs me that you wish to +speak with me. + +_Mlle H._ For a few moments. Your stay at Langeot has been shorter than +usual. + +_Man._ I returned a day earlier than I had intended. Respect for the +family suggests that I should not be absent on an occasion like the +present. + +_Mlle H._ An occasion that gives you an opportunity of showing that you +possess _moral_, as well as physical courage, of no common order. + +_Man._ You are pleased to be enigmatical. + +_Mlle H._ I shall indulge in no enigma that you cannot speedily solve. +And now. Manuel, take good heed of what I say, but I warn you do not +judge me by a common standard. My nature and my sad dependant lot, place +me beyond the pale of those born for a happier fate. From the first hour +we met, my heart was drawn insensibly towards you. Still that heart was +safe. A mere spark existed, which reason and reflection might have +killed; you yourself, in defining the bond of sympathy between us, +raised from that spark a flame. + +_Man._ Madame, in justice to myself, I must interrupt you. Never by word +or deed have I-- + +_Mlle H._ Go on sir, pray do not spare me. Never have you _encouraged_, +you would say. Well, I grant it. Be it so. Your reserve and coldness +could not alter me. What fire but burns the fiercer in the frosty air? +And yet if you have pride, so too have I, and I will confess that +something more exists to keep the flame alive than love. Ambition, and +the hope to triumph over one who is a rival. These, I am free to own, +would be incentives enough for me, if love existed not. + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, at the risk of appearing vain, I must tell you you +are most fortunate. + +_Mlle H._ Indeed sir, how so? + +_Man._ In saying all this to a _gentleman_. + +_Mlle H._ Oh, sir, of that I'm well aware, by birth-- + +_Man._ And _principle_. I do not affect to despise the one, but I +take more pride in the other. The first, is for the present, buried. +Therefore, if you have any appeal to make, let it be to the last. + +_Mlle H._ I _have_ an appeal to make, but, even though compelled to +differ with so sage an adviser, I shall make it to an ally more powerful +than either. + +_Man._ And what is that? + +_Mlle H._ Self interest. + +_Man._ You think so? + +_Mlle H._ I'm sure of it. + +_Man._ Will you permit me to suggest that an important ceremony is to +take place in this room to-night, and the hour approaches. + +_Mlle H._ Well, then, if I appear abrupt, attribute it to your delicate +reminder, and not to my own desire. You love Marguerite Laroque-- + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, this is beyond-- + +_Mlle H._ You love Marguerite Laroque. That love is hopeless. +Everything is prepared for the ceremony you speak of, and if a shade of +doubt as to her destiny existed, it can live no longer now. I possess a +secret which, if given to the world, will compromise your honesty as a +man, your honor as a gentleman, and sink the proud name you bear to a +depth that even the despised governess could look down upon with pity. +Manuel Marquis de Champcey, give _me_ the title _she_ can never bear, +and I am silent. A wife none the less devoted because, at first, +unsought--a friend none the less sincere, though newly found. + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, you are a singular instance of a well known fact. + +_Mlle H._ And what may that be, sir? + +_Man._ That the cleverest people sometimes do the silliest things. Had +you been a simple, uneducated rustic, you would have reflected seriously +before you lowered yourself in the opinion of the man you professed to +love. But, as you are--accomplished, shrewd, and resolute, you have +taken the worst road by which to gain the end you coveted. Nay more; you +have allowed impulse to snatch the reins from principle, and those +unbroken steeds, Passion and Ambition, have taken the bit in their +mouths, galloped off with common sense, and I very much fear it will +cost you some time and trouble to come up with them. I need hardly add, +Mademoiselle, that I decline continuing this conversation. [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ [_After a pause._] Be it so. The sooner ended the sooner to my +work. I swear, the thought of the revenge I'll take on this proud fool, +makes me all but rejoice in failure. [_Music heard without._] The guests +are arriving. I must not be found here. [_Exit._ + + _Enter ALAIN, then two servants, who arrange tables, chairs, &c. + Enter MADAME LAROQUE, M'LLE MARGUERITE, M DE BEVANNES, DESMARET, + MONS. NOURET, M'LLE HELOUIN, MADAM AUBREY, MANUEL and Guests._ + +_Mad. L._ [_to servants._] That will do, you may retire. + + [_Exeunt ALAIN and servants._ + +_Des._ Before you proceed to business, Monsieur Nouret, I will make a +few preliminary remarks, if you will allow me. + +_Mons. Nouret._ Certainly, Doctor. Pray speak. + +_Des._ For the information of those friends of the family who are yet +unacquainted with the facts, I wish to state that, before the death of +M. Laroque, he wrote a letter to be given to me, his oldest friend, when +he was no more. I shall read a short extract. [_Reads._] "For these +reasons it is my earnest desire, nay positive injunction, that my +grand-daughters' marriage shall take place within six months of my +death, with the same ceremonies and rejoicings as though I were still +living, and the reading of the will shall immediately succeed the +marriage." And now, Monsieur, before proceeding, it is necessary for you +to state that all is ready for the reading of the will immediately on +our return. + +_Mons._ N. I trust all _will_ be ready, Doctor; but, at present, I +cannot say it is so, for although I find the will and codicils of the +deceased to be in the most perfect order, and numbered in regular +succession, I have, thus far, been unable to discover the first of the +series, marked No. 1. All the rest are here--2, 3, 4, and 5--but 1 is +wanting. Now the legacies are, with the exception of a few to the old +servants, entirely to Mons. Laroque's blood relations. + +_Mad. A._ [_Weeps._] Oh! + +_Mons. N._ Be comforted Madame, he was indeed a kind man. His blood +relations have all been thought of. + +_Mad. A._ But I'm _not_ a blood relation. Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Mlle H._ Is it not possible that the missing paper may contain-- + +_Mad. A._ No doubt of it, no doubt of it. And that is burnt. + +_All._ Burnt! + +_Mlle H._ You saw Mons. Manuel, the steward, burn a paper. You found the +envelope, and gave it to me? + +_Mad. A._ I did, but I never-- + +_Mlle H._ Silence! [_Gives envelope to MONS. NOURET._] Examine that, +sir. + +_Mons. N._ It is the hand-writing of the deceased, and the envelope of +the peculiar size and make of all the others. [_All look at MANUEL._ + +_Mad. L._ Monsieur Manuel, what have you to say to this? + +_Bev._ Speak, sir. + +_Man._ The lady is right, I _did_ burn the paper. + +_Mad. L._ Great Heavens! [_All rise._ + +_Man._ But she is mistaken as to the purport of the document. + +_Bev._ Upon my soul this is a little too strong. + +_Mad. L._ Oh, Monsieur Manuel, do not tell me you have so far abused our +confidence. Do not tell me that one whom I had begun to love almost as a +son, has fallen low enough to commit so vile an act. I am an old woman, +sir, and in the course of nature, you must outlive me. My child is +provided for. You shall share with me while I live, and all I have shall +be yours at last if you will but refute this, if you will but give me +the joy of knowing you are innocent. + +_Mons. N._ Come sir, this painful matter may be set at rest, perhaps, if +you will tell us the content of that paper. + +_Des._ Manuel, my son. + +_Mad. L._ Oh! for my sake! + +_Man._ [_Looks at MARGUERITE and says._] I will not speak. + + [_Exit DESMARETS._ + +_Mad. L._ [_After a short pause._] Then sir, much as it pains me, +you must, clearly understand that we can live no longer under the +same roof. + +_Man._ [_Going._] I know it, madame. + +_Mar._ And [_He turns at the sound of her voice_,] have you _nothing_, +not _one_ word to say in your defence? + +_Man._ Not one word. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. L._ Oh Marguerite, my joy on this occasion is lost in this most +unhappy discovery. + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] And my misery doubled. Do not follow me, dear mother, +I will rejoin you directly. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. A._ Oh!-- [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ My dear madame, I beg to remind you that this is my wedding day. +Pray reserve your tears till after the ceremony. [_Re-enter DESMARETS._] +My friends, if you will adjourn to the reception room, the carriages +will be ready immediately. [_Exeunt guests and MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Des._ [_To M'LLE H._] Mademoiselle, you do not appear as much shocked +as we are by this unfortunate discovery. + +_Mlle H._ Simply, Doctor, because, knowing the gentleman, I am not +surprised. + +_Des._ You are not? + +_Mlle H._ Not at all. [_Exit._ + +_Des._ Umph! Bevannes, my dear fellow, I'm loth to delay an event which, +by a popular but pleasant fallacy, is supposed to be the happiest in a +man's life, but I must request, before we go to the chapel, that you +will give me a few moments of your attention. + +_Bev._ Certainly Doctor; the evening's before us. Pray vary the +entertainment according to your own taste. + +_Des._ My dear madame, I must also request _your_ presence, and, as what +I am about to say is important, and guests are still arriving, this +apartment will soon become too public for our purpose, therefore, with +your permission, we'll retire to the library which, as the works it +contains are purely instructive, is about the last place our fashionable +friends are likely to visit. + +_Mad. L._ Had we not better wait until we return from-- + +_Des._ By no means. What I have to say must be said at once, and so, +madame, permit me. [_Offers arm._ + +_Bev._ Doctor, that's a remarkably nice young man you recommended for +steward. + +_Des._ Never mind him. We'll talk about him to-morrow. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter MANUEL, dressed for traveling._ + +_Man._ For her, for her, this bitter, bitter trial. Oh, let that thought +sustain me. Falsely I had imagined that the change from the sweet dreamy +days of my youth, to the stern realities of my manhood, had created for +me that tower of strength to the unfortunate--endurance. But, no, no; +too truly do I feel that, until this moment, I have not known what utter +misery is--one last, last look at scenes made sacred by her presence; at +objects hallowed by her touch, and then, and then-- + + [_He sinks into a chair._ + + [_Enter MARGUERITE. She comes down slowly._] + +_Mar._ Manuel! + +_Man._ Marguerite! + +_Mar._ Hush! move not, nor speak till you have heard me. I am here to +ask forgiveness. + +_Man._ Forgiveness? + +_Mar._ Now, now, I know your truth, too late, oh, Heavens! too late late +I know your pure, unselfish heart. You bore suspicion, insult, scorn, +but I believed you not. How nobly you risked life for honor; yet I +believed you not. + +_Man._ At last then-- + +_Mar._ At last, conviction came; that letter you mislaid-- + +_Man._ Relating to my sister-- + +_Mar._ Aye, and _not_ to me. I know it now, Desmarets told me all. + +_Man._ And could you think-- + +_Mar._ I did, I did. Oh, do not scorn me, but grant my prayer, the +first, the _last_ you'll ever hear from Marguerite. There is some +mystery hidden beneath your refusal to speak of the paper you +destroyed--some reason which refers to _me_. Do not deny it, for I know +it. You cannot deceive the watchful eyes of love--for _I love you_, +Manuel. We _must_ part, and forever. My word is pledged already for my +marriage with Bevannes. But by the love which you professed for me, for +your dear sister's sake, for _mine_, [_she kneels_,] clear your good +name of this foul stain. Oh, Manuel! Manuel! do it in pity for the rash, +unhappy girl, who, with ruin staring at her from the fatal rock, +suspicion, spite of reason, spite of warning, wildly, madly dashed +herself upon the shore and made her heart a wreck. + + [_Enter M'LLE HELOUIN._] + +_Mlle H._ Good. I could not have wished it otherwise. [_To MAD. LAROQUE +and DESMARETS who appear with MAD. AUBREY, guests and MONS. NOURET._] +Look, Madame! Look, sir! Observe the faithful, loyal steward, who, not +content with fraud and betrayal of his trust, still lingers on the scene +of his disgrace. Behold the proud _gentleman_, who completes his list +of honorable actions by ensnaring the affections of that unthinking +girl--the betrothed wife of another, the daughter of his benefactress. +[_MADAME LAROQUE and DESMARETS raise MARGUERITE, who is almost +fainting._] Well, you hear all this; you witness it--you are men and +stir not--your friend is betrayed--an aged lady insulted in your +presence, yet there stands the man, erect and fearless. Will you +bear this, I say, or will you cast him forth like the dog he is? + + [_The gentlemen make a movement toward MANUEL._ + +_Des._ Stop. Before Mons. Manuel departs, I have a piece of intelligence +to communicate, which it is important for _him_, as well as you, to +hear. You will the better comprehend it, if I request your patience +while I read a portion of this paper, left in my care by Mons. Laroque, +with discretionary power to destroy or reveal its contents as my +judgment should dictate. Under present circumstances I choose the latter +course. This is in the old man's own handwriting, and you will admit, is +an important episode in his history. The events described occurred in +the West Indies. [_Reads._] "On the approach of hostilities between the +French and English, my father, Pierre Laroque, who was steward to the +then Marquis de Champcey, received orders to sell immediately, the +magnificent estates on the island, and then to join the Marquis (who +commanded a small French fleet) and to bring with him the money realized +from the sale. The estates were sold for a very large sum. With this +money my father and myself started to join the Marquis, but, on our way +were interrupted by an English frigate and taken prisoners. My father +died defending himself. I was promised my life, and permission to escape +with whatever money we had with us when taken, if I would reveal the +hiding place of the French fleet. How shall I write the words? _I +yielded._ A large English force attacked them. The Marquis was killed, +and I came to France a wealthy, but dishonored man." Such is the +confession left in my hands. Such is the confession which makes the +present Marquis de Champcey master of this and all the property the old +man left, and such is the duplicate of the paper which that young man +destroyed. + + [_Great sensation among all the dramatis personæ. The Doctor leads + MARGUERITE to MANUEL, then turns and embraces MAD. LAROQUE. Guests + crowd round MANUEL, congratulating him._] + +_Mlle H._ [_To MADAME AUBREY._] Hark'ye Madame-- + +_Mad. A._ Oh! go away, you nasty thing. You've made a pretty mess of it. +You've caused me to do mischief enough. I won't be corrupted by you any +more. [_She goes to MANUEL and shakes hands with him violently._ + +_Mlle H._ [_Aside._] Baffled. Foiled at every turn. [_Enter BEVANNES._] +Ah! no. One hope _is_ left. Mons. de Bevannes, you are well arrived. In +good time to defend your honor, which is greviously in peril here. That +man, the steward, by a strange reverse of fortune, has become master of +this great estate. + +_Bev._ So I have already been informed. + +_Mlle H._ Well, look there. Have you eyes? + +_Bev._ Madame, you wound my vanity. + +_Mlle H._ Do you not see that the new master here is likely to become +lord where you alone should reign? Will you tamely submit and give her +up? + +_Bev._ Madame, you just now reflected on my person, now you do worse; +you attack my heart. Do you think I am the man to step between two +devoted young creatures for my own selfish ends? No! The moment I found +the dear girl was penniless, I destroyed the contract, and in the most +generous manner, gave her back her word. + +_Mad. L._ I won't go near her. I do believe she'd bite me. Doctor, will +_you_ have the goodness? + +_Des._ [_To MLLE HELOUIN._] Mademoiselle, you were very anxious just now +for somebody to turn out--I don't wish to be ungallant--but what is +going to take place here will coincide so little with your arrangements, +that the ladies think--that perhaps-- + +_Mlle H._ Enough, sir. [_To MANUEL._] If I am criminal, you shall not +call me hypocrite. I go, and as a parting gift, take from me such wishes +for your future, as bitter scorn and baffled hate may leave. [_Exit._ + +_Bev._ A very nice young person that. + +_Des._ But come, come, what the deuce are you all standing here for? + + [_Enter ALAIN._] + +_Alain._ Please Madame, the grounds are lit up, the carriages ready and +all the country folks are waiting. + +_Des._ Come. The bride and bridegroom. Come along. + +_Mar._ Now--at once? Oh, Doctor. + +_Des._ Now--at once? Of course; do you think all our pretty preparations +are to go for nothing? + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle, I've got myself up utterly regardless of expense, +and if _somebody_ ain't married, I shall withdraw my consent. + +_Mad. A._ Oh, Mons. de Bevannes do not let that deter you, if you meant +what you said the evening Mons. Laroque died. + +_Bev._ I! + +_Mad. A._ Why, be it so. + +_Bev._ Be it so? Be it what, Madame? + +_Mad. A._ I will dispense with further courtship. + +_Bev._ You may, for an indefinite period. [_They go up._ + +_Des._ So, as soon as Manuel has changed his dress-- + +_Mar._ Nay, dear Manuel, you shall not change it. For the last time, +obey the headstrong girl. In that dress you often bore her taunts and +insults; in that same dress you shall receive her vows of love and duty. + +_Man._ Let it be so then. I will but ask one ornament--the bud you wear +upon your breast. [_She detaches it from her dress._] Look at it, +dearest. It lacks the rich color and the gorgeous blush of one you gave +me once before. But that was lost and trampled under foot. There let it +fade, and typify the errors and misfortunes past, whilst this, just +putting forth its beauty into life, shall be an emblem of dear hopes and +happiness to come. + + [_ALAIN gives a signal--the same chorus as in fourth tableau is + heard. The curtains are suddenly drawn back from the three arches, + showing the park and grounds splendidly illuminated with colored + lamps, and the peasantry assembled, in their picturesque Breton + holiday costume; a troop of little girls headed by CHRISTINE, + form, and strew flowers before MANUEL and MARGUERITE, and the + Curtain falls on a Tableau._] + + +THE END. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Romance of a Poor Young Man, by +Pierrepont Edwards and Lester Wallace + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A POOR YOUNG MAN *** + +***** This file should be named 35342-8.txt or 35342-8.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/5/3/4/35342/ + +Produced by Charlene Taylor, Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images +produced by the Wright American Fiction Project.) + + +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 Romance of a Poor Young Man + A Drama Adapted from the French of Octave Feuillet + +Author: Pierrepont Edwards + Lester Wallace + +Release Date: February 21, 2011 [EBook #35342] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A POOR YOUNG MAN *** + + + + +Produced by Charlene Taylor, Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images +produced by the Wright American Fiction Project.) + + + + + + +</pre> + + + + + + + +<h3>THE STANDARD DRAMA.<br /> + +<small>The Acting Edition.<br /> + +<span class="smcap">No.</span> CCXXV.</small></h3> + + +<hr style="width: 15%;" /> +<h3>THE ROMANCE OF</h3> + +<h1>A POOR YOUNG MAN.</h1> + +<h4>A Drama, adapted from the French of<br /> +OCTAVE FEUILLET,<br /> +BY MESSRS. PIERREPONT EDWARDS AND LESTER WALLACK.</h4> + +<h5>TO WHICH ARE ADDED<br /> +A Description of the Costume—Cast of the Characters—Entrances and Exits—<br /> +Relative Positions of the Performers on the Stage, and<br /> +the whole of the Stage Business</h5> + +<div class="bbt"> +<h4>Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1859, by <span class="smcap">Lester Wallack</span>, in the<br /> +Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New York.</h4> +</div> + +<h4>NEW YORK:<br /> +SAMUEL FRENCH, PUBLISHER,<br /> +122 <span class="smcap">Nassau Street</span>, (<span class="smcap">Up Stairs.</span>) +</h4> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 2]</span></p> +<h2>CHARACTERS REPRESENTED.</h2> + + +<div class="center"> +<table border="0" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" summary=""> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Manuel, Marquis de Champcey</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Lester Wallack.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Doctor Desmarets,—formerly of the French Army</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Brougham.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>M. de Bevannes—a man of the world</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Walcot.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Gaspar Laroque—an aged man, formerly Captain of a Privateer</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Dyott.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Alain—a confidential domestic</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Young.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>M. Nouret—a Notary</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Levere.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Yvonnet—a Breton Shepherd</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Baker.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Henri</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Oliver.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Louis</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mr. Coburn.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Madame Laroque—Daughter-in-Law to Gaspar</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mrs. Vernon.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Marguerite—her daughter</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mrs. Hoey.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Mlle Helouin—a Governess</i>,</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Madame Aubrey—a relative of the Laroque family</i>,</td><td align='left'>Miss Mary Gannon.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Louise Vauberger—formerly nurse to Manuel</i>, <i>now keeper of a lodging house</i>,</td><td align='left'>Mrs. Walcot.</td></tr> +<tr><td align='left'><i>Christine—a Breton peasant girl</i>,</td><td align='left'>Miss Fanny Reeves.</td></tr> +</table></div> + + +<p class="center"><i>Guests, Servants, Peasantry, &c., &c.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"> +<p>The events of the Drama take place (during the 1st Act) in Paris, +afterward in the Province of Britanny.</p> + +<p>Costumes of the present day.</p> + +<p>The Overture, incidental Music, and Choruses composed and arranged +by Mr. Robert Stoepel.</p> +</div> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 3]</span></p> +<h1>A POOR YOUNG MAN.</h1> + + + +<hr style="width: 15%;" /> +<h2>TABLEAU I.</h2> + + +<p class="center"><i>A Room, simply furnished—Table, Chairs, Arm Chair, Secretaire, +Side Table—Door</i> <span class="smcap">C.</span></p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Madame Vauberger</span> <i>peeps in</i> <span class="smcap">L.</span></p> + +<p><i>Madame Vauberger.</i> No; he has not yet returned. [<i>Enters.</i>] Things +cannot go on in this manner much longer—I shall have to speak out, +and plainly too. And why not? Surely he won't take it ill from +me—ah, no. I, who loved his poor mother so, could never—What's +this? A purse! empty! And this key, left carelessly lying about; +that's a bad sign. [<i>Opens Secretaire.</i>] No, not one solitary sous—his +last coin came yesterday to pay me the rent. In the drawer, perhaps—</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Dr. Desmarets</span> <i>looks in</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Dr. Desmarets.</i> Hallo! [<i>She starts.</i>] What are you at there?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Me, sir? I was just—I was just—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Poking your nose into that drawer—that what you call +just?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> I was dusting and putting the things in order, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I'll tell you what, Madame V., you're an extraordinary +woman. Yesterday, when I called, you were dusting—half-an-hour +ago when I called, you were dusting—and now, when I call again, +you're dusting. Where the devil you find so much dust to dust, <i>I</i> +can't think.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Ah, sir, look into this drawer.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What for?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Is it not the place where, if one had money, one would +naturally keep it?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I suppose so. What of that?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> See, sir, it is empty.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What's that to me?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> And his purse, also.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What's that to you?</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Goes up and puts hat on table.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] I dare not tell him that Manuel is without a<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 4]</span> +meal—starving—I should never be forgiven. His <i>pride</i> would be +wounded, and nothing could excuse that.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, what are you cogitating about? Looking for something +to dust?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> I'm thinking of the Marquis, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, what of him?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Is it not dreadful? Brought up as he has been—surrounded +by every luxury—and now reduced to want even. Oh! it is +too hard—too hard!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, it's his own fault, isn't it? There was enough left from +the wreck of his father's property, to give him a sort of a living, and +he must needs go and settle it all upon his little sister Helen.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> And for what? To give her the education befitting her +rank.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Fudge!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Doctor Desmarets, your're very unfeeling.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Oh, of course, of course. I give him good advice, he rejects +it. I withdraw my sympathy, and then I'm unfeeling. If he +can't manage better with the little that's left him, egad! he may +think himself lucky that he can get his daily meals.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Sir, he can't even—[<i>Aside.</i>] Oh, if I dared—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Can't even what? Send for his coupe, I suppose, or drink +Chateau margaux—terrible hardships, truly. When there's nothing +else in a man's pocket, he had better put his pride there, and button +it up tight.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Some day, sir, we shall find that he has taken poison, or +cut his throat.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Ah! and then there'll be nothing to dust.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Monsieur, I repeat it—you're unfeeling. But I, who loved +and served his dear mother, whom he so much resembles—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Not a bit—hasn't a look of her. The father, the father all +over.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Of course. So you always say, and everybody knows +why. You loved the poor Marchioness, offered her your hand, and +she preferred the Marquis.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Madame!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> I don't care. I <i>will</i> speak my mind. And because she +refused you, you have no regard for her son.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Madame!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> But if he has his father's face, he has his mother's heart.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Much you know about it.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> And who <i>should</i> know if I don't? Havn't I attended him +since he was an infant?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, and havn't <i>I</i> attended him since he was an infant?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Wasn't I with him during every sickness?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Wasn't I with him too?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Didn't I nurse him?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Didn't I cure him?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Wouldn't I follow him through the world?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 5]</span></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Didn't I bring him <i>into</i> it?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Yes, and if things go on at this rate, he won't have much +to thank you for.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> How do <i>you</i> know? How do <i>you</i> know, you foolish old +woman you.</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>appears</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Heyday! the only two friends I have in the world at high +words? What can have caused this?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> My lord, the Doctor says you—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Me! my dear Doctor, you never were quarrelling about so +unimportant a person, surely?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No matter for that. But I have some business with the Marquis, +if this very positive old lady will allow me the luxury of an interview +with him—a <i>private</i> interview. Pray, ma'am, <i>may</i> I trespass +on your indulgence?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Truly, Doctor, your campaign in the Crimea has improved +neither your manners, or your beauty.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">L. H.</span></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Confound her impudence! The attack on my manners I could +forgive, but my beauty—that's a tender point.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Ah, Doctor, you must pardon her brusque manner. If she's +poor in courtesy, she's rich in a rarer gift—fidelity.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Oh! hang her! let her go. And now to your affairs. Your +father's death occurred while I was with the army, in the Crimea. +Rumors reached me there, but I have never heard the full particulars. +I would not willingly revive a painful theme, but as an old friend—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Nay, I shall be more satisfied when you know the facts. +When you left France you know what our position was, and what our +style of living.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> All the luxuries that money could procure—a mansion in Paris, +an ancestral chateau, and a stable that could boast the best blood +in France.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Two months after the death of my dear mother, I went to +Italy, by my father's desire, and for several years I traveled through +Europe, at my pleasure. During this time his letters to me were affectionate, +but brief, and never expressed any desire for my return. +Two months ago, on arriving at Marseilles, I found several letters +from him awaiting me, each of them begging me to return home with +all possible haste.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I remember, it was some time previous to that, that I heard +his name mentioned in connection with some unfortunate speculations +in the stocks.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I arrived at night. The ground was white with snow. As I +passed up the avenue—made still darker by the old trees which +overshadowed it—I could hear the frost shaken from the branches, +seeming, as it fell around me, like a warning of bitter tears to come. +Hardly had I crossed the threshold when my father's arms were +around me. I could feel his heart beating against my own, with a +force almost painful. He led me to a sofa, and placed himself directly +<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 6]</span> +in front of me, when, as if longing to reveal something which yet +he dared not name, he fixed his eyes on mine with an expression of +supplication, of agony, of shame, wondrous in a man so haughty and +so proud. It was enough! The wrong he had committed, yet +could not confess, I divined full well—God knows how fully, how +freely I forgave it! Suddenly, that look, which never quitted me, +became fixed, rigid. The pressure of his hand on mine became a +grip of iron. He arose—the eyes wandered, the hand relaxed, and +he fell dead at my feet!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>After a pause.</i>] Well, well, it is a sad history, for he left +utter ruin for your portion. But come, you must not look back. +"Forward" must be the watchword now. Mr. Faveau, your family +lawyer, tells me that the little that remained to you, after paying your +father's debts, you have appropriated to making a fine lady of your +sister.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> To educate her, doctor.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, well, same thing; so that you, yourself, have literally +nothing to speak of—hardly enough to give you bread.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Hardly.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Under these circumstances you will perhaps be disposed to +the favorable consideration of a proposal I have to make?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Name it, sir, for at present, I confess I have formed no plans +of my own. I was so little prepared to find myself quite a beggar. +Were I alone in the world, I would become a soldier. But my sister, +that would involve prolonged absence from her—perhaps an early +death. My darling—I cannot endure the thought of knowing her +compelled to suffer the privations, the labor, and the dangers of poverty. +She is happy at her school, and young enough to remain there +for some years to come. If I could but find some occupation by which, +even were I obliged to impose the severest restraints upon myself, it +would be possible to save enough for her marriage portion, I should +be more than content.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> An employment to suit a man of your rank—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Oh, my dear Doctor—rank—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, well, of your <i>education</i>, then, is not easily found. Now, +mark what I am going to say, and consider it well, before you come +to a hasty conclusion. There is, among my patients, a retired merchant, +one who has been able, by indefatigable industry in trade, to +amass a very handsome fortune. His daughter, an only a child, and of +course, the father's darling, has, by chance, become acquainted with +the state of your affairs. Now, I have reason to know, (being on very +confidential terms with them.) I say I have reason to know that this +girl, ambitious, handsome, rich, and accomplished, would be happy +to share your title. I have the father's consent, and only await the +word from you to—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Dr. Desmarets, my name is neither for sale, or to let.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Humph! Do you know, my lord, that you bear a remarkable +resemblance to your poor mother?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 7]</span></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You must be mistaken, sir. I have always been told that I +was more like my father.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Not a bit! The mother, the mother, sir, in every feature. +But, bless me, it's near eleven o'clock and I have a most particular +appointment. As you decline considering the proposal I have made, +we must think of something else. Au revoir. [<i>Aside.</i>] The mother—eyes, +nose, mouth. What the devil made that stupid old woman say +he was like his father?</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">C.</span></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> He's a kind man, though a little eccentric, and apart from +his professional duty, seems actuated by a sincere desire to serve me, +and yet—and yet I could not bring myself to ask his charity. Hunger—starvation—are +not, then, mere empty words. Oh! if I do sin in +my pride, I am punished, for I suffer much. This is the second day +without food. Why, after all, I could go into any Restaurant and +dine, for I am well enough known. I could say I had forgotten my +purse—have done so without scruple in happier times, but <i>then</i> I +had the means to pay, and now—no, no, my sister, not for life, not +even for <i>thee</i>, will I descend to lie and cheat. How weak I am; this +comes too soon upon my long sickness. If I could but sleep and so +forget my agony. And there are human creatures who suffer every +day as I do now. My sister, my little sister, I seem to see thy dear +face looking down upon me, and bidding me be comforted. [<i>Music.</i>] +Thou, at least, shall never suffer. But for those who hear their cries +of hunger repeated from the mouths of starving little ones, well, +well, God comfort them; I will not re—Oh—holy—charity—for—those—who—my +sister—my—</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>gradually falls asleep</i>. <span class="smcap">Madame Vauberger</span> <i>enters with a +Tray containing a dish or two with eatables, a plate, &c. She +watches</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>carefully while she deposits the Tray on the chimney-piece +and lays a cloth on the table</i>. <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>awakes as she +goes back to the chimney-piece for tray</i>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Eh—who's that? Ah, me! What are you doing, Madame?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Did you not order dinner, my lord?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Certainly not.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Why they told me—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Then they were mistaken. It's for some of the other +lodgers.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V</i>. But there's no other lodgers on this floor, and I really +cannot think what—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> At any rate, it is not for me. Take it away.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> [<i>After slowly taking off cloth.</i>] My lord has probably +dined?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Probably.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Dear me, dear me, what a pity. A good dinner spoiled, +wasted. Really, if you had not dined, my lord, it would so oblige +me if—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Will you go or not? [<i>She is dejectedly going, when</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> +<i>calls</i>.] Louise, I understand, and I thank you, but I am not well<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 8]</span> +to-day. I have no desire to eat.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>He turns away.</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Vauberger</span> +<i>quietly comes back and gently places the dinner on the table</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Ah, my Lord, if you knew how you wound my heart. +Come now, you shall pay me for the dinner—there—you shall put +the money into my hand the moment you have it. But indeed, indeed, +if you were to give me a hundred thousand francs, it would +not cause me half the pleasure that I should feel in seeing you eat +my poor little dinner. Oh, surely, surely, you can comprehend that.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I do, Louise, I do—and as I can't give you the hundred +thousand francs, why, I'll eat your dinner.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> No; <i>will</i> you?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Louise, your hand. Don't be alarmed, I'm not going to +put money into it.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>She timidly gives her hand.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Oh! thank you, thank you, my lord, a thousand times. +Now, I'll leave you to your dinner. Ah! how good of you to accept +my poor gift. You have a noble heart.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">C.</span></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And a monstrous appetite. My kind, faithful Louise. Well, +well, let us to dinner, since dinner there is. Come, come, here's +life for another day or so, at least, and that's something.</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Doctor</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Vauberger</span> <i>heard without</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Nonsense, nonsense; I don't believe a word of it.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> I tell you sir, 'tis true; you might have seen it.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Entering.</i>] But, confound it, woman—I <i>didn't</i> see it, and it +was your business to tell me.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> It wasn't.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> It was.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What's the matter now?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Matter enough! That stupid woman—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Doctor, will you do me the pleasure to dine with me?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> My lord, you have done wrong.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Indeed!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> For you have wounded a friend. You have been cruel.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Cruel!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> For you have made an old man blush.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Yes, you! why was I left in ignorance? How could you, +Manuel? why didn't you. Damn it, sir? how dare you starve without +letting me know?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Sir, I could not—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> My poor boy; there, there, eat your dinner; I've news for +you.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> News!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Yes; eat your dinner.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> But I want to listen.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, you don't listen with your mouth, I suppose. Eat your +dinner.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> But<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 9]</span>—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Devil a word you'll get out of me, if you don't eat your +dinner.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Well, well.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Eats.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Good! You remember I told you I had an appointment?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Yes.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Don't talk—eat! [<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>eats</i>.] That appointment concerned +you. [<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>nods</i>.] I think I've found employment for you.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Eh?</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Pauses with a bit on his fork.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> In with it. [<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>puts it in his mouth</i>.] Good! You are +aware, of course, that my practice and my residence is in the country. +I merely came to Paris on your account. [<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>lets go his fork +to shake hands with the</i> <span class="smcap">Doctor</span>, <i>who puts the fork into his hand +again</i>.] Well, among the families with whom I am most intimate, +there is one, in particular, of great wealth and importance. The +name is Laroque. The family have had for some years past, a managing +man, a steward, who never was worth much. Indeed, the only +real service he has ever rendered them, he has just performed.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Ran away?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No, died. The moment I heard of this, I wrote to Madame +Laroque, asking his situation for a friend of mine. On leaving you, +I went to the post office, and found a letter awaiting me, with the +full consent of the family to my request. To be sure the position for +a man of your rank—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> My rank, under present circumstances, is a mockery. I +shall, in future, take simply my Christian name of Manuel.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I have only mentioned you in my letters as Monsieur Manuel, +anticipating that such would be your wish. You will have your own +apartments in a pavilion near the Chateau. Your salary will be so +regulated that you will be enabled to lay by a portion for your sister. +Now, the only question remaining is, will this suit you?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Admirably! My dear, kind friend, how shall I sufficiently +thank you?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Eat your dinner.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> But am I fitted for the position?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Pretty well. You've learned one great requisite.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What's that?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Economy. As to the rest, the duties are simple enough. And +now I'll give you some notion of the people you are going to meet. +There are, in the Chateau, without counting visitors, five persons. +First, Monsieur Laroque, celebrated at the beginning of the present +century as a famous privateer Captain. Hence his large fortune. He +is now a feeble old man, mind and memory a good deal the worse for +wear. Then there is Madame Laroque, his daughter-in-law, a +Creole—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> A Creole?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Yes, young gentleman, an <i>elderly</i> Creole, with some eccentricities +to be sure, but a good heart. Thirdly, there is Mademoiselle +Marguerite, her daughter, much younger—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> That's singular.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 10]</span></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Eat your dinner. She is proud, somewhat romantic, a little +thoughtless,—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And her disposition?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Sweet. Fourthly, Madame Aubrey, a widow, a sort of second +cousin, old maidish, talky—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Disposition?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Sour. Fifthly, Mademoiselle Helouin—Governess. Young, +good looking.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Disposition?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Doubtful. And that completes the catalogue.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Delightful! Two good dispositions out of five. The proportion +is enormous!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I'm glad you look at things so hopefully. When will you be +ready to accompany me to the Chateau?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> To-morrow—to-day.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> To-morrow will do. I shall be here for you early.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Going.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I shall be ready.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Runs against</i> <span class="smcap">Madame V.</span> <i>who is coming in</i>.] Confound it, +woman, take care!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> Why, Doctor, you ran against me.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I didn't!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. V.</i> You did!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What's the matter now?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Eat your dinner!</p> + +<h4>END OF TABLEAU I.</h4> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2>TABLEAU II.</h2> + + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>A Saloon with bay windows opening on a Terrace, from which steps +descend to lawn and grounds at back—Piano</i>, <span class="smcap">R. U. E.</span>—<i>Books, Papers, +Vases, &c., &c.</i></p> + +<p><span class="smcap">De Bevannes</span>, <span class="smcap">Dr. Desmarets</span>, <span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span>, <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>, <span class="smcap">Mademoiselle +Helouin</span>, <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span> <i>discovered. As Curtain rises</i>, +<span class="smcap">M. De Bevannes</span> <i>is conversing with several young ladies on the +terrace at back</i>. <span class="smcap">Desmarets</span> <i>reading paper</i>, <span class="smcap">L. C.</span> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span> +<i>wrapped in furs</i>, <span class="smcap">L.</span> <i>reading a book</i>. <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>near her +mother, at tapestry work</i>. <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>, <span class="smcap">R. C.</span> <i>knitting</i>. +<span class="smcap">Mad'lle Helouin</span> <i>arranging flowers in vase</i>, <span class="smcap">R.</span> <i>Great talking +and laughing from the party on the terrace as the curtain rises.</i></p></div> + +<p><i>Bevannes.</i> Very well, very well, young ladies, if you insist upon it. +The ladies are determined on a waltz on the terrace.</p> + +<p><i>Madame Laroque.</i> What! in the broiling sun?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 11]</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> The roses do not fear the sun. Why should the lilies?</p> + +<p><i>Ladies</i> [<i>all courtesey.</i>] Oh, how pretty.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Yes, rather neat, I think. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>] Mademoiselle, +may I hope for the honor?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Thank you. Despite your pretty speech, I confess to a +fear of waltzing in the sun. But I'll play for you with pleasure.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Goes towards Piano</i>, <span class="smcap">R.</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside to her.</i>] Always cruel. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">M'lle Helouin,</span>] Mademoiselle, +may I request the pleasure?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle Helouin.</i> Oh! certainly.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside to her.</i>] Ever kind.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>plays—they waltz and gradually disappear</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Have you seen my new conservatory, Doctor?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No, Madame.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Well, I must show it to you, if I can drag myself so far.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Drag? Why, good gracious! You're the picture of health +this morning—fresh as a rose.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Fresh? Frozen. It's a curious fact, Doctor, that since +I left the Antilles, twenty years ago, I have never yet known what it +was to feel comfortably warm.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> That accounts for your continued good looks. Consult your +Cookery Book, page 18. If you want to preserve things fresh, you +must keep them cold. And you, Madame, [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>] +how do <i>you</i> find yourself?</p> + +<p><i>Madame Aubrey.</i> Very weak, Doctor. I ate a tolerable breakfast +this morning.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] You may say that. Three eggs and a broiled chicken.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> And I feel a fullness—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] I should think so.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> In the head.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Ah!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> The fact is, Doctor, I am subject to such continual chagrin, +such cruel mortifications here. Dependent upon others for certain +luxuries which I can't get for myself.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Why not?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Things are so dear. Ah, Doctor, nothing will soothe me +but death.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, <i>that's</i> cheap!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Brute!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Aside.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>at Piano.</i>] Here they come again.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>She plays. The waltzers appear on terrace. In the midst of this +dancing</i>, <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>comes up steps, as if from lawn below. They +separate</i> <span class="smcap">R.</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">L.</span> <i>and regard him with some astonishment. He +has a portfolio under his arm.</i></p></div> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Well, why don't you go on?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] At last, [<i>aloud.</i>] Madame Laroque, permit me to +present to you, M. Manuel, the new Steward.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 12]</span></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span> <i>rises and salutes</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>at the same time ringing +a bell. A servant enters and goes to</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>,<i> taking from him a +small portmanteau, which he carries off</i>. <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>goes over to</i> +<span class="smcap">L.</span> <i>of</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Rather a stylish looking steward!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Why, Doctor, what does this mean? You promised a +quiet, simple, steady young man, and you bring me a fine gentleman +like this.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>As</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>comes down</i> <span class="smcap">R. C., Mad'lle Helouin</span> <i>sees him</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle. H.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] It is the Marquis de Champcey!</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Goes up to ladies.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey—Manuel—Desmarets—Bevannes—Mad. Laroque—Mademoiselle Helouin—Marguerite.</span></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Pardon, sir, you are Monsieur—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Manuel, Madame.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> The new Steward?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Yes, Madame.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> You are quite sure?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] That's not bad.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Madame!</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> The lady wishes to know whether you are yourself.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I have always been under that impression, sir.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Bevannes</span> <i>goes up</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] The conversation is becoming brilliant—I'll leave +them to enjoy it.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit at back</i>—<span class="smcap">Bevannes</span> <i>comes down to</i> <span class="smcap">Marquis</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Sir, we are indebted to you for devoting your talents to +our service; we really require them, for we have the misfortune to +be immensely rich.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Misfortune, dear?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Yes, love; wealth is a heavy burthen.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> But a very pleasant one.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> You'd find it hard to bear, dear.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I should like to <i>try</i>, darling.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> I feel that I was born for the devotion and self-sacrifice +entailed by poverty. Ah! my dear Bevannes, should I not have +made an excellent Sister of Charity?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> You are already the next thing to it, Madame?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> How so?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Indicating</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] The mother of goodness.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> But do you not agree with me?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> In what?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> That wealth is a heavy responsibility.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Doubtless. But then you have the comfort of knowing that +there are always some devoted friends willing to relieve you.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>Rings.</i>] But <i>my</i> fortune is not mine to dispose of—for +my duty obliges me to preserve it for my child.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 13]</span></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p>Alain, show this gentleman to his apartments—but first, you must be +introduced to my father-in-law. Ask if Monsieur Laroque can see +the gentleman. [<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>—<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>up stage</i>.] And now, we will +take a stroll to the conservatory. What has become of that horrid +doctor? [<i>As she rises, her shawl falls off</i>—<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>comes forward +and assists her</i>.] Oh! thank you, sir.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Re-enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Monsieur Laroque is coming down, Madame.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit at back.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] My dear, will you stay and introduce +Monsieur Manuel to your grandpapa?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Certainly, if you wish it.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Now, my dear Bevannes, your arm.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Who has been talking to</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] Eh?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> You shall accompany us—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] This is too bad.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Gives arm to</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh! Monsieur de Bevannes, how happy you ought to feel—arm +in arm with "the mother of goodness."</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I do feel happy—blessed. [<span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span> <i>takes his other +arm</i>.] Doubly blessed.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exeunt</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>, <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle. H.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] So, so, my lord Marquis. Well, I will keep your +secret, <i>perhaps</i>.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i>—<span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>seats herself as they go off</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>After a pause.</i>] Is this your first visit to Brittany, sir?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> It is, Mademoiselle.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> It is an interesting country, I believe, to strangers.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Deeply interesting; though I travelled through it so rapidly, +that I had hardly time to appreciate its beauties. What I <i>did</i> see, +however, charmed me.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Ah! an admirer of the picturesque, I perceive, like our +governess. You two will get on very well together—you'll be excellent +companions.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh, yes; she adores trees, rocks, rivers, etcetera—things +that, for my own part, I don't think very interesting.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Smiling, and throwing himself carelessly into a chair.</i>] +Pray, then, may I ask what you <i>do</i> think interesting?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Rising.</i>] Excuse me, sir.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Goes out with a slight and disdainful inclination.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> A timely reproof—for I was already forgetting my position. +[<span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>is crossing the stage</i>.] My friend, a word with you.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Certainly, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Monsieur Laroque is very old, is he not?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Oh, yes sir, <i>very</i> old.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 14]</span></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> He was a seaman formerly, I believe?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes sir, and a bold one too. Up in the picture gallery, +there are paintings of some of his most famous battles with the English. +Ah! he was a terrible man. Why, sir, if you'll believe me, +when the fit is on him, he will walk for hours alone in that gallery, in +a sort of dream, muttering to himself, and fancying that he is again +on board his ship in the midst of fire and slaughter, and between you +and I, sir, they <i>do</i> say—but hush! he's coming with his granddaughter.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Music.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">M. Laroque</span>, <i>leaning on</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> This way, dear grandfather. So, so. How well and strong +you are to-day.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>places chairs and exits</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Laroque.</i> Always better and stronger when you are near me, my +darling, [<i>sits down.</i>] Thank ye, thank ye.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Let me present to you Mons. Manuel, our new steward.</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Laroque</span>, <i>on seeing</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>is transfixed and gazes with a sort of +terror at him</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> No—no—no—it cannot be!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> What is this?</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> But I tell you he is dead—dead—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Dearest grandfather! [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.] For heaven's sake, sir, +speak to him.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Really, Mademoiselle—I—I—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Speak, sir! Say something—anything—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I am happy, sir, that I can devote my humble talents to your +service.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> But he is dead—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Who?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> The last steward—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Signs to</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>to speak on</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> All the more happy, sir, as I have heard of your many brilliant +exploits, and had relatives who, like yourself, have often fought +against the English—</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> The English! Aye—aye—aye—they did it—they were the +cause, but they paid it all—paid dearly—dearly.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Approaching.</i>] Permit me, sir, to—</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Ah! No—no—no. He has blood upon him! See—see—see—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Grandfather, dear grandfather! Do not regard him, [<i>To</i> +<span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.] he is often thus—his great age—and—and—oh, sir, pray +retire; join my mother, I beg of you.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Certainly, Mademoiselle. [<i>Aside.</i>] A good beginning, truly.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Grandfather, dearest, what terrible thoughts are troubling +you? See, it is I, Marguerite, your child.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Eh! my child! Ah, yes, true, my child, my own dear child; +but where is—are we alone? Who stood <i>there</i> just now?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> That was our new steward, Monsieur Manuel.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Manuel—Manuel—'tis very strange! I thought<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 15]</span>—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> What, dear grandfather?</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Thought that—that—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh, you thought you recognized him? He is like some one +you have seen before?</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Yes—yes—yes—like some one I have seen before. But I am +very old, darling, and have seen so many faces in my time. Well, +well, I think I shall like him. Does he play picquet?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Indeed I do not know—</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> I hope so, I hope so—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. H.</i> Ah, my dear cousin, how do you find yourself now? +They told me you were ill, and almost frightened me to death.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Thank ye, cousin, thank ye. It was only a passing weakness.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Indeed, I rejoice to hear it, for I was fearful of some sudden—Oh, +why did you not send for me? 'Tis very unkind of you +to forget those who love you so.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Grandpapa, there's one for you.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Aside to him.</i></p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>.] Well, well it's very kind of you to be so +fearful of <i>something sudden</i>, but you needn't—I've made my <i>will</i>. +[<i>Aside to</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] There's one for <i>her</i>!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Come now, take my arm, a walk upon the terrace will do +you so much good. There, don't be afraid to lean on me.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> You're very kind, cousin. Thank ye, thank ye. [<i>Going.</i>] +Marguerite, my darling, ask him if he plays picquet.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I will.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Umph! do you think he does?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I have no doubt of it.</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> [<i>As he goes out with</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>.] I hope so—I hope so—I +hope so!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exeunt</i> <span class="smcap">Laroque</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> My poor grandfather; spite of his failing memory, he sees +through the disinterestedness of our good cousin Aubrey. But those +wild words, his terror at the appearance of this young man, what +could that mean? Or had it any meaning? [<i>Sees</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span> +<i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>coming in at back</i>.] My mother—and leaning on the +arm of that person!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Precisely my own opinion, sir, my impression exactly; this +is really charming; we agree upon every point.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I am flattered, Madame, to think such should be the case.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Without.</i>] 'Pon my honor, young ladies, I can't, I really +can't!</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>, <i>surrounded by ladies, exclaiming</i>, "You must, +Indeed!"</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Would you believe it, Madame? Those unconscionable ladies +insist on another waltz.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh, indeed I cannot play any more—I must finish this to-day—It +is a promise<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 16]</span>—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Pray do not let that inconvenience the ladies—I will play a +waltz with much pleasure.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Touches Piano.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Sir!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Haughtily.</i>] Thank you, sir—it is not requisite.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Forgetting again.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Goes up Terrace.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Pretty cool!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Very presuming of that steward.</p> + +<p><i>Mad L.</i> Very polite of that <i>gentleman</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Highly disgusting to <i>this</i> gentleman.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Well, de Bevannes, you must find some other amusement +for the ladies.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> 'Gad, I'll soon do that. It's positively fatiguing to be in such +general request with them. They can't do without me for one moment—they +absolutely—</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Turns and perceives</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>who, during the preceding dialogue, +has entered into conversation with the ladies, and has, by this time, +offered his arm to two of them—They all accompany him off</i>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Well, if I were given to strong sentiments, I should +wish that fellow at the deuce. As it is, I'll content myself with +simply damning his impudence.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Do you know, my dear, that I don't feel quite easy in my +mind about that young man.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Nor I, either.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Why not, mamma?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> He is much too charming to make a good steward.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Really; I do not perceive it. A person may be honest and +well-behaved, although he does happen to play on the piano.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I don't know that; I flatter myself I have seen something of +the world, and experience has specially taught me to beware of the +man who plays the piano.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Mamma, dear, will you hand me those scissors?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Yes, my child. [<i>Perceives</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel's</span> <i>portfolio</i>.] Whose +drawing-book is this?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> That? oh! that is the steward's—I saw it in his hand when +he came in.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> I positively must take a peep. Oh! De Bevannes, look! +beautiful! What a charming accomplishment it is to draw well.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Yes, for an engineer, or a builder—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Or an actor—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Why gracious! Monsieur de Bevannes, you have said a good +thing.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Have I? Allow me to apologize.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Not at all; it's your <i>first</i> offence.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> How beautifully finished these groups are.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Positively, they're not so bad.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Bad! my dear sir; they're exquisite. Look, for instance +at that horse—is it not perfection?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 17]</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> It would be, doubtless—only it happens to be a cow.</p> + +<p><i>Mad.L.</i> A cow?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I think so; horses don't go about with two horns.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Your pardon, ladies; but I believe I left my drawing-book—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Allow me to return it, sir—and to thank you for an accident +which has afforded us much pleasure.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Madame, you are too kind—so kind, indeed, that you have +too long refrained from permitting me to commence my duties. With +your consent, I will at once set about them. Your farm at Langeot, +of which you spoke to me, is not more, I think, than a mile or two +from this. I will walk over there this afternoon, and—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Walk! over such a miserable bad road as it is. Indeed, +sir, I could not allow it.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Hush! Pray, <i>pray</i>, not so much noise. My dear cousin +has composed himself to sleep.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Noise! it appears to me we were pretty quiet.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Ah, sir, you might think so; but the least sound jars upon +his poor nerves.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] I never saw such a devil of a woman as this is, to +cry.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> But I assure you, Madame, that I would rather walk. If I +pretend to be your steward—why steward I must be, and not fine +gentleman.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] My dear, would it be proper to allow +M. Manuel to walk?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I believe it is usual for the steward to do so. However, I see +no reason why he should not ride, if he chooses. There are plenty of +horses in the stable.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Ah!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> What's the matter, Madame?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Talking of riding always overcomes me.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Excuse my peculiar mode of expression—but you appear to +me to pass your life in being perpetually overcome.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Women are but fragile flowers.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> They seem to require a deal of water.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> But horses, sir—talking of horses, puts me in mind of a +pet I had.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> A pet horse, dear?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> No, love, a donkey. Oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Now she's watering the donkey.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I had the dear little creature for two years. Just long +enough to—pray listen, sir.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I beg your pardon, Madame—I'm all attention—I heard. +The creature had two ears just long enough—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>All laugh.</i></p> +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 18]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> No, no; I said I had him for two years—just a sufficient +time to love him like a child—when he died—died, sir, of one of +those diseases peculiar to that class of quadruped.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Children?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> No, sir, Donkies! Dear me, it was, Umph! let me see, +you must know, sir, what I mean?</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Measles?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> No, no, but no matter; He died—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Peace to his ashes. But as you were saying, Madame Laroque, +there are plenty of horses in the stable, and, really, all but +ruined for want of exercise.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Dr. Desmarets</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Yes, that's what you'll <i>all</i> be, if you continue to lounge away +the days as you do.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Ah, Doctor, we've missed you dreadfully.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What's the matter? anybody sick?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> You ought to have been here just now, Doctor; Madame Aubrey +has told the most touching tale—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Of a donkey? I know, I've heard it often.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> But with regard to a horse for M. Manuel. There's Black +Harry—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Black Harry! Nobody can ride the brute! He's perfectly +untameable! Why, de Bevannes, you tried it yourself and couldn't.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Ahem! Oh—ah—yes, but I had no spurs.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Spurs! Why, you couldn't even get upon his back!</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Eh—why—no—not exactly—[<i>Aside</i>] Confound him!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>] And is Black Harry so very unmanageable?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> 'Pon my word I don't see it. He has an insuperable objection +to being mounted, but if you can get upon his back, and <i>being</i> on his +back, can <i>keep</i> there, why, of course, it's a great point in your favor.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Smiling.</i>] Certainly an important one.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> If you except a partiality for biting, and ditto for kicking, +occasionally shying, and always prone to running away, he's a pleasant +beast.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> But such a beauty! I never saw a horse I should like so +much to ride, if he were but properly broken.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span>] Madame, have I your permission?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Certainly.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>rings</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] What's he at now?</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Tell one of the grooms to saddle Black Harry.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Sir!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> No—no—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.] Did you hear my order?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes, sir. [<i>Aside.</i>] There'll be work for the Doctor to-day.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 19]</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Good.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Pray do not fear, Madame, I have been used to restive horses. +I'll just make his acquaintance now, and if I can succeed in gaining +a small portion of his esteem, I will do myself the honor of riding +him daily until he is fit for your daughter's use.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.] What the devil made you mention that confounded +animal? You don't like the new steward, eh?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Not particularly.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> He's good looking.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Inconveniently.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> And you want his neck broken?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> No. But I should like his nose put out of joint.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> I do not think I ought to permit this.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Noise below the terrace.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> The horse is ready, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I will lend you a pair of my spurs. Alain, get my spurs as +you go down.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Very well, sir.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Let me entreat you, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I do assure you, there is nothing to fear. With your good +wishes I am certain of success.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit down steps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>On a terrace.</i>] Why, here are all the servants and grooms. +Quite an assemblage.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Noise</i>—<i>Cries of</i> "Hold him," "Quiet, sir," "Out of the way," "Stand +clear," &c.—<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Ladies</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> A nice, quiet animal. [<i>Leans over.</i>] Manuel, my dear boy. +Sir! if you break your leg, you may mend it yourself—I won't.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>On a sofa.</i>] Doctor, report progress. [<i>Aside.</i>] I'll bet a thousand +francs he doesn't even mount him.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Who has overheard him.</i>] I'll take that bet, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Eh? oh! as you please Mademoiselle.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> By the Lord, he's up!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Noise as before—then shout.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> In the air?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No, in the saddle. [<i>Noise again.</i>] Ah, he's off!</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Off the horse?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No; off on a gallop. [<i>Noise gets more distant.</i>] Egad! they're +all scampering after him. What's he doing now? The ditch! take +care!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> He'll be killed.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh! oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> The horse can never do it.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Shouts distant.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Ah! he's—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> In it?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No, <i>over</i> it! Back again! [<i>Shouts distant.</i>] Here he comes. +Egad! Black Harry's had enough of it.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Shouts approach nearer.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] There's some mystery about this man. He has<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 20]</span> +hardly arrived, when all eyes seem turned to him. There certainly <i>is</i> +a mystery.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> It will be cleared up, Mademoiselle.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> What do you mean?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Hush!</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.] Your spurs, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Oh! I hope they assisted him.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Didn't want 'em sir.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Great shouting below—The ladies, who have been witnessing the ride, +crowd upon the terrace, waving their handkerchiefs, and appear +surrounding and congratulating</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>as he comes on up steps.</i></p></div> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.] Somebody's nose is out of joint.</p> + +<h4>END TABLEAU II.</h4> + +<h3>Lapse of Three Months.</h3> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2>TABLEAU III.</h2> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>The Park of the Chateau Laroque.</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>discovered arranging +Portfolio and Drawing materials</i>.</p></div> + + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Now really I do thank Madame for deputing me to wait +more especially on Monsieur Manuel. Steward or no steward, he's a +perfect gentleman; of that there can't be a doubt. What a pity it +is that Mademoiselle Marguerite and he don't like one another. When +he says white, she says black. When she goes one way, he goes +another, yet everybody else likes him. M'lle Helonin, our Governess, +is absolutely in love with him, and the wonderful influence he +has obtained over old Mons. Laroque, in this short time, is unaccountable. +He has hardly been here three months, and they say that all +the money will be left according to his advice—but that's going +rather far, even for gossip. Well, now, his drawing materials are all +ready for him, and—here he is to employ them.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Alain, did you, by chance, pick up a half finished letter anywhere +in my room?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> No, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Strange! I commenced it yesterday, and left it on my table,<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 21]</span> +intending to finish it this morning. I have searched the room +thoroughly, and it is nowhere to be found.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Was it of much importance?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Merely inasmuch as it related to family and business matters. +It was for the Doctor, in case he should call when I was from +home. However, let it go. I'll write another when I return. [<i>Sits +down and prepares drawing materials.</i>] Did not Mademoiselle Marguerite +go out on horseback yesterday alone?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> How was it you did not follow her, as usual?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Oh, sir, she often goes without me. She's a capital rider, +and she says, to be alone sometimes, makes her feel more self-dependent, +and you know, sir, it won't do to contradict her, for though +a charitable, kind-hearted, young lady, she's rather wilful, and terribly +proud.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Somewhat, perhaps, but her general manner appears to me +more the result of a sad and gloomy thoughtfulness, than mere +pride.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Ah, well, I suppose, sir, that, like most young ladies of her +age, she's a little bit in love.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> In love?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes, sir, Monsieur de Bevannes has been paying her great +attention for some time past, and it would be a grand match, for, after +Monsieur Laroque, he is the richest gentleman in the neighborhood, +and of excellent family. Ah, sir, what a pity it is <i>you</i> are not rich.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Why so, Alain?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Because—no matter. Have you any orders for me, sir?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Merely to have a good look for that letter when you go to my +room.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> I certainly will, sir.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Married—married—and to <i>him</i>. Well, and why not? Fool +that I am! Despite of all that should preserve and fence my heart as +with a wall of steel, from every impulse which could induce forgetfulness +of my bitter lot, and the one sacred object of my life, still will +that coward heart indulge in dreams—wild dreams of one day laying +its most precious offerings at the feet which would but spurn them.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">M'lle Helouin</span>, <i>with basket</i>.</p> + +<p>But I will conquer yet, and if the struggle be hard, the victory will +be the more worthy.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] He is alone. Hitherto, I have kept his secret +well; whether I will continue silent, depends upon himself. Courage, +and the poor hireling may yet be a Marchioness. [<i>Comes down to +him.</i>] Oh! Monsieur Manuel, how beautiful that is! You see, while +you have been painting the woods, I have been gathering flowers. +You know we have a ball to-night.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Indeed? I was not aware of it.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> You positively don't seem to know or care about anything +that goes on. You are worse than indifferent, you are unsociable<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 22]</span>—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Pardon me, not unsociable. But I know my station, and +think it better not to risk being reminded of it.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> [<i>After a pause.</i>] Monsieur Manuel—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle—</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Have I ever offended you?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> No, indeed.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I have been vain enough to think, at times, that you had +some friendly feeling for me.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And so I have. It is but natural. Our fortunes and positions +are the same, or nearly so. Both dependent on the caprices of +those who employ us, both alone, friendless. This should create +sympathy at least, if not friendship.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> You would not fear, then, to tell me of my faults?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Not if you desired it.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Indeed I do desire it.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> But I only know of one.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Pray name it. Nay, I shall receive it as a kindness.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Well, then I think you admit and encourage somewhat too +great a familiarity with the family in whose employment we are. +Your motives may be, indeed, I'm sure they <i>are</i>, perfectly innocent; +still they will not be so considered, for in this world, the unfortunate +are always suspected.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> True, true. Spoken with a delicacy and candor all you own—I thank you sincerely—and you will always continue as now—my +true friend?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I shall feel honored in the title.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> A true—a <i>dear</i> friend?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] What is she driving at?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> A friend that loves me?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Hallo! we're getting tender!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> A friend that loves me, ardently—do you hear?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Distinctly.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And do you comprehend?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Half aside.</i>] I'm afraid I do.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Do you remember the old nursery rhyme—</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p> +"Pluck from the flower its leafy store—<br /> +Love me little, love me more;<br /> +Hearts change owners, yet combine,<br /> +If mine is yours, and yours is mine."<br /> +</p></div> + +<p>Come, now, let us see if you know which line should be yours. Shall +I commence?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> If you please.</p> + +<p> +<i>Mlle H.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p> +"Pluck from the flower it's leafy store—[<i>A pause.</i>]<br /> +Love me little, love me more; [<i>A pause.</i>]<br /> +Hearts change owners, yet combine,<br /> +If——<br /> +</p></div> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I respectfully decline."<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 23]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> [<i>Throwing away the flower, which she has been picking +to pieces</i>] Then, sir—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Sees</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>, <i>who enters</i>.</p> + +<p>Indeed, I could look at it all day, it is so beautiful—but I positively +must go. Monsieur, an revoir. [<i>Aside to</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>as she goes</i>.] You +have misunderstood me.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Have I? Then I must be a greater fool than I thought.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Pretty close quarters. What the deuce is that governess +after? And now for a little scientific pumping. [<i>Comes down.</i>] +Ah, Monsieur Manuel, at your drawing, eh? Beautiful, beautiful, +indeed.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You flatter.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Not at all—but to change the subject—by the by, do, I interrupt +your work?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Not in the least.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Well, I was going to compliment you on the vast affection and +confidence you have inspired in poor old Laroque.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I believe he really has a kindly regard for me.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Regard! my dear sir—you are absolutely wound around his +heart. His affection for his grand-daughter is very great, but no one +has the influence over him that you have. Now, in the strictest confidence, +I'm going to be very frank with you—and mark me well, you +will not find it to your disadvantage hereafter, if you are equally frank +with <i>me</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Really, I don't quite—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> No; but you will presently. Without flattery, I think you—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Referring to his picture.</i>] Too green.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Eh? Oh, exactly. I was about to say I think you, in every +way, a gentleman, therefore I don't hesitate to confide in you the fact +that yesterday, after dinner, I was just—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>To picture.</i>] A little blue.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Eh? Oh precisely. I was just on the point of proposing to +Madame Laroque for her daughter's hand, when it suddenly struck +me that I should possess a double claim, if I could, in the first place, +influence you enough in the young lady's favor to make it certain +that the bulk of Monsieur Laroque's property would be left to her.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Monsieur de Bevannes, you really very much over-rate—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Pray forgive me, but you hardly know yourself, the importance +of your good offices in this matter. I was going on to say that +my marriage with Marguerite is all but a settled affair, and, of course, +it is my duty to promote her interests in every possible way. I think +you must concede that?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Surely, but—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i>Permit me. Now I wish to call to your mind that Madame +Laroque, though a worthy excellent woman, is one of very simple +tastes and habits, and, should too large a portion of the property be +left to her, it would tax and embarrass her to an extent that would<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 24]</span> +be painful to my feelings. I hope you appreciate my disinterestedness +in the matter.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Oh, thoroughly! But I am still at a loss to imagine where +my interference would be either necessary or effectual.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> My dear friend—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Now <i>he's</i> getting tender!</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> One word from you as to the proper disposition of the money +would—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Monsieur de Bevannes, let me end this at once, by telling +you that, in my opinion, any interference from me in the family affairs +of M. Laroque, would be a gross and unseemly abuse of his confidence.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> And this is the return you make for mine?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I did not solicit it, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Sir, permit me to take your hand.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Really—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> You have stood the test, you are a noble fellow. You are—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p>[<i>Aside.</i>] There's Mrs. Waterspout, by jove! [<i>Aloud.</i>] You seem puzzled +at my manner—I will take another opportunity of explaining. +Suffice it now to say you have <i>misunderstood</i> me.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> My understanding seems to be terribly at fault to-day.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] De Bevannes has left him. A good opportunity +for me. [<i>Comes down.</i>] Beautiful! Exquisite indeed!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Madame—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Truly, each new picture you finish, is more lovely than +the last. Oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What is the matter?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> The painting of that sheep's head—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Yes, Madame—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Reminds me of my own portrait, taken in happier years, +long passed away.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> But there are as happy ones in store for you, I hope.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> That will depend greatly upon you, Monsieur Manuel.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> On <i>me</i>?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Yes. Do you know, Monsieur Manuel, that I find my +poor cousin Laroque very much changed,—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Indeed he is.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> And for the worse. In fact, he appears to me to be sinking +fast.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I'm afraid such is the case.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> How fond he is of you—you, it is well known, possess +his entire confidence.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I have been fortunate enough to make my poor services acceptable +to him.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Now, just between ourselves, in the strictest confidence; +do you happen to be aware how the property will be left?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I do not, Madame.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 25]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I am in a state of painful apprehension, lest the dear old +gentleman should over-estimate the desires and requirements of Madame +Laroque, and should, therefore, curtail any little legacy coming +to <i>me</i>, to make <i>her</i> portion larger, which would be absolutely throwing +money away. I hope you understand my entire want of selfishness +in this matter?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I think I do.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I was sure you would. Now, if you will use your power +and settle this affair to my advantage, all I can say is, so noble an +action would not go unrewarded.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I should hope not.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> You will find me <i>substantially</i> grateful; you understand +me?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Entirely.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> And I you?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Not quite; but in order that you may—I must tell you, Madame—that +when you offer me money to rob your benefactor, and +mine, you entirely and totally mistake the person you are addressing.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh! oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> It grieves me to be so abrupt, but—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> It is not that, it is not that—but, to be thought capable of +such—to be accused—oh, sir! you have cruelly <i>misunderstood</i> me.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit, weeping.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Another misunderstanding! That makes three friends I +have secured this morning. One or two more of the same sort, and +my business here will be soon finished.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Here comes the first misunderstanding again.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> M. Manuel, I thought you might like to know that the +Doctor has just arrived—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Thank you—I'll go to him at once.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> So eager to avoid me. Have a care, my lord Marquis—spite +of my insignificance, you may learn to rue the day you made +me conscious of it.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.</p> + +<p>And here is one on whom, if I don't very much mistake, I may rely +for aid.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Upon my honor, Mademoiselle, you make quite a pretty +picture—a wood nymph's reverie; sweet subject, now, for the pencil +of our friend, the steward.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Our friend, the steward, as you term him, has loftier subjects +for his pictures, either aerial or substantial.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Really!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And in the former quality his aspirations are sublime.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Mademoiselle, you are an entertaining person, but I never +guessed a conundrum in my life.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 26]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> In plain terms, then, this romantic gentleman aspires to +create an interest in the heart of Marguerite.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> O come! I can stand a great deal, but that's rather <i>too</i> good.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> But if I can prove it?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> The thing is too absurd.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I have just parted from Madame Aubrey.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I congratulate you.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> You jest, M. de Bevannes, but you may one day wake to +find the steward rather a dangerous person. Madame Aubrey has +picked up a letter of his, which was blown out of the window of his +room, into the park. Would you like to see it?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Mademoiselle, I don't pretend to more virtue than my neighbors, +but if I can only get at facts by reading another man's letters, +I'm afraid I shall remain in ignorance.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Marguerite is coming. Would you like to hear the communication +I have to make?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> The contents of the letter?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> No, but still a somewhat startling discovery.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> On the whole, I think I'll take my departure; for when there's +mischief to be concocted, and two women to brew it, it would be +the grossest vanity in any man to think he could improve the +cookery.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Now if I can instill but one small drop of the poison called +suspicion, her proud, impetuous spirit, will complete the work itself.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Really, a very touching scene. The affection existing between +the good doctor and our steward is remarkable. If he had +been M. Manuel's father, he could hardly have been more cordially +received.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And I assure you that M. Manuel's father could not serve +him at this moment as the doctor can.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> My dear governess, you seem to know more of this young +man than you choose to reveal. I remember well your mysterious +words to me the day he first rode and conquered that horse.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Perhaps I have been to blame for having remained silent +so long. But right or wrong, I have, until now, looked upon it as a +duty to keep this person's secret inviolate.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> His secret!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Nor would I reveal it now, but that his base intentions +are no longer doubtful, and silence would be criminal. However, I +must exact your promise that the knowledge of it shall remain, for +the present, between ourselves.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> You have my word. Proceed.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Four years ago, when you were in Paris—you are aware +that I was in the habit of visiting some of my old friends at my former +school?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I remember.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 27]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Well, I often saw there this very M. Manuel. He visited +the school to see his little sister. His father was the well known +Marquis de Champcey.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Ah!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> It was the talk of the school that the family were even +then much reduced. Now, they are totally ruined. The father is +dead, and the son has, through the good offices of a friend, been +placed in a position to regain the fortune he has lost. By what means +I leave to your penetration to discover.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> And is it so! [<i>A pause.</i>] But, after all, the conduct of this +young man in no way justifies suspicion. I see him but seldom. In +truth, he actually avoids me.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Of course he does. Reserve creates inquiry, inquiry, interest. +Oh, he has been well tutored.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Enough. I thank you sincerely for the warning. But relieve +your mind of all anxiety; I shall know how to deal with this conscientious +gentleman, be assured.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Indeed I feel the happier that I have at last confided this +fact to you. Ah, my child, to what snares, what treachery, what deceit, +does the possession of wealth expose the innocent. The thought +of them makes the poor governess almost contented with her humble +lot. Come, shall we walk towards the house? As we go, I shall be +able to bring to your recollection many circumstances, trifling in +themselves, but which, when considered in connection with what I +have now told you, will serve to bring full conviction to your mind.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exeunt</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>, <i>leaving her basket of flowers on the bank</i>.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And now, having enjoyed the honor of a tete-a-tete with each +of those most interested in inquiring into matters upon which I'm +strictly determined to be silent, I presume I shall be permitted to +continue my work undisturbed.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>He has reseated himself at his drawing.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>re-enters to find her basket</i>. <i>He rises. She merely +looks haughtily at him and, in carrying off the basket, lets a rose +fall on the ground.</i></p></div> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Really, her manner is more than haughty. 'Tis almost rude. +[<i>He picks up the flower.</i>] I suppose now, she'd grudge me this poor +flower, yet who, though loving wildly and hopelessly as I do, would +not think it a fair prize? No, I will return it. I will not be guilty +of one action which shall give my heart the power to whisper "Thus +should'st thou not have done."</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Re-enter</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] As I supposed. Have the kindness, sir, to return +me that flower. I am not in the habit of presenting boquets to—gentlemen.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Under which conviction, Mademoiselle, I was on the point of +bringing it to you.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 28]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Oh! for some way to make him feel how I despise +him. Do you know, M. Manuel, seeing so little of you, lately, +I was under the impression that death had deprived us of another +steward—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Highly flattered that you should condescend to be under any +impressions concerning so insignificant a person.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I thought that so gifted a gentleman could hardly do anything +without a motive, and now I am informed that your absence +is attributable to the fact that you spend all your evenings with our +noble relative, Mademoiselle Delonnais.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I certainly do, and I deny myself that pleasure the less because +the lady happens to be old enough to be my grandmother. Her +ancestors reigned here formerly, and she—the last of a noble race—poor +and infirm, bears so well the dignity of her name, her age, and +her misfortunes, that I feel almost a filial affection for her. Besides, +it was your mother who first introduced me to her.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh! no one means to reproach you; on the contrary, I dare +say Madame Laroque is obliged to you for your attention to the good +old lady.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You may remember, too, it was your wish—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh, if you want praise or admiration from me, you must be +content to wait. Though young, I have some experience of life. I +know that there are two motives to most human actions. I know that +M'lle Delonnais has a small independence. I know she has no heir, +therefore a little extra attention and—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle, permit me to express for you my sincere pity.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Sir!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Permit me to express for you my sincere pity.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Your pity?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Yes, madame—if unjust suspicion be the bitter fruit of experience +in one so young. Nothing can merit more compassion than +a heart withered by misbelief, almost before it has begun to exist.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Are you aware of what you say, sir? Are you aware to whom +you speak?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Entirely conscious, Mademoiselle, of both.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Bitterly.</i>] Perhaps you expect me to ask your pardon?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Assuredly I do. Wealth can afford to humble itself—poverty +cannot.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>As she is going, turns with a haughty humility.</i>] Then, sir, +I ask your pardon.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Oh! my sister, my darling Rose! It needs all my love for +thee to make endurance of these insults less than cowardice! Coldness +and antipathy have increased to absolute hate and persecution. +She is determined to drive me hence. She will succeed at last, and +then—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Doctor Desmarets</span>.</p> + +<p>Ah! my dear Doctor!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I've eaten some lunch, had the dust brushed off, and now I'm +going to brush some more on.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 29]</span></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> How so?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Just got a letter—patient very sick—twenty miles ride there +and back. Pleasant life, a doctor's.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Where is it?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> About four miles beyond the ruins of Elfin.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> The ruins of Elfen.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Yes; but what's the matter with you? you look feverish and +queer. Anything wrong between you and the family?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Why, no. But—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> But—what? They tell me you're quite a great man here—old +Laroque can't live without you—angry because you don't spend +all your evenings at the Chateau—and the ladies, without exception, +are crazy about you.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Pardon me—there's one <i>important</i> exception—Mlle Marguerite.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What the devil! You don't mean to tell me you can't agree +with <i>her</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I do assure you—she loses no opportunity to humiliate, and +even openly insult me. Indeed, it has lately become insufferable—so +that I am going to tax your friendship once more, to seek for me +some other employment.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Now don't be hasty, my dear boy. By Jove! here she +comes—no she don't—she perceives you—and there she goes. She +don't escape <i>me</i> though.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Nay, my dear doctor, I beg of you—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Stuff! nonsense! I'll just give her a piece of my mind.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I very much fear the Doctor's zeal in my cause will lead him +into trouble with this proud girl—but I am resolved. Here, I will +not, <i>can</i> not remain. Rose, my darling, thy marriage dowry must be +sought and won elsewhere. I will at once visit my poor old friend, +and say farewell. Marguerite I will see no more—no faltering now—a +good resolve once taken, action should be speedy. To-night the +horse I have almost learned to love, because she would one day ride +him, shall bear me for the last time.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>The</i> <span class="smcap">Doctor</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>are heard outside—then enter</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Can't help it, if I <i>do</i> offend you. The young man is my +friend—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Doctor—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> My friend, Mademoiselle—and I never desert a friend, even +though he has incurred the displeasure of your proud ladyship.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Do you not regard <i>me</i> as a friend?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I should rather think so; known you since you were a baby; +disposition altered since then—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> For the better?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Don't know that. When you are angry now it's a storm—<i>then</i> +it was only a squall.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 30]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> This is no jesting matter. Doctor Desmarets, I have always +considered you a man of honor.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Much obliged to you. I've been under the same impression +myself.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> What then is the meaning of this plot!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Plot!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> This young man, this steward you have so kindly supplied us +with, he has been recognized. He is known!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, suppose he is; what of it?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Why does he bear a false name?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> He don't.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Doctor—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Manuel is his Christian name. I suppose he may make what +use of it he pleases. Whether he puts it first or last, is nobody's +business but his own.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> His motive?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> His motive, Mademoiselle, is worthy of himself, and proceeds +from a sense of honest pride, which many would do well to imitate. +He is a gentleman, and a man of honor, reduced to sudden poverty, +and compelled to labor for a livelihood. Now, I'm not acute enough +to perceive any <i>plot</i> in all this. But I <i>do</i> perceive that you are doing +your best to drive him from this place.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Doctor, your word is enough. I believe you, and I thank +you. Oh, it is so sad to look only on the gloomy side of things. I +thank you <i>so</i> much, and never liked you half so well as I do to-day.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>[<i>While speaking this speech, she searches for the rose she has taken +from</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>and, on finding it, places it in her bosom</i>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Des.</i> No?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> No!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> What a pity—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Eh?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> That I can't stay to luxuriate in your friendship. I have only +time to say good-bye to your mother, then I must be off.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Well, now, I'll tell you what I'll do. To prove I'm in earnest, +I'm going to take my horse, and bear you company part of the way.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> My child, it will be dark before I get there.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> But there'll be a lovely moon, and I want to see the ruined +tower of Elfen by moonlight. So say no more, for I'm resolved.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Well, my experience, professional and personal, has taught me +that when a woman is determined—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>—<span class="smcap">De Bevannes</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> You are right, my dear Bevannes, I confess it.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Oh, there's no doubt he is, absolute perfection, the <i>rara avis</i>, +so long sought for, found at last.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Laugh as you please, I positively adore him.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> You'll ask me to the wedding, I hope?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 31]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Go along with you. Well, my child, have you persuaded +that obstinate man to stay till morning?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> That obstinate man regrets he must go within the hour.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> [<i>without.</i>] Go away, you troublesome little thing!</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Christine</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> What's the matter?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> This little girl will insist on searching the park for some +gentleman she wishes to see, belonging to the Chateau.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> That will do—leave her here.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Now small specimen of rustic humanity, what do you want?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> What is your name, little one?</p> + +<p><i>Christine.</i> Christine, Madame. My grandfather—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Never mind your pedigree—which of us do you want?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Be quiet. Well my dear?</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> My grandfather is very old and blind, if you please, and—and—oh! +I want to see the <i>nice</i>, <i>good</i> gentleman.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Bevannes, she don't want <i>you</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> The <i>handsome</i> gentleman.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Doctor, she don't want <i>you</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Please, Madame, may I tell you what happened yesterday?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Yes, child, go on.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> My grandfather has a dog that leads him about—poor old +Spot—such a pet—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> A pet! are you talking of a pet?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Yes; but don't weep, Madame—it isn't a donkey. Go on, +little girl.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Well, yesterday, we three—grandfather, Spot and I, were +sitting near the stream, in the village, by the mill-dam, when some +wicked boys—oh! such dreadful wicked boys, came by. They +seized poor Spot and threw him into the water. He was nearly being +crushed by the mill-wheel, when a dear, kind gentleman, who was +riding by on a beautiful black horse—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p>Oh! there he is. Oh, sir! I'm so glad I've found you.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Oh, confound it! what brings you here, you little +pest?</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Don't be angry, sir—you rode away so fast, yesterday, I had +no time to thank you, and I wish to do so now.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Beautiful subject for a nautical drama: "The Desperate +Diver; or, The Drowning Dog of the Dam."</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Ridiculous enough, I admit. However, I did jump into the +water after poor Spot.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> You did, you did, indeed! Ah! sir, [<i>to</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>,] you +laugh—but perhaps if you were old and blind, you wouldn't think it +such a joke.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 32]</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I assure you, my dear, it would have given me infinite pleasure +to have saved your dog.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> You save a dog? Why you can't swim.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>All laugh.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Here are ten francs, child, go away.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> And now, sir, [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.] I'll go directly, if you'll give +me just one kiss.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Angrily.</i>] Upon my word—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Now I insist upon it you do. Poor little thing, I'm sure +she deserves it.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Well, then, [<i>Kisses her.</i>] now, go home, there's +a dear.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Oh! I will, I will, good-bye.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Well, haven't you got one for me?</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Oh, dear, yes, Madame.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Kisses</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. L.</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> You're forgetting your money.</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Oh, dear, no, sir.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Takes it and curtsies.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Now a kiss for me?</p> + +<p><i>Chris.</i> Oh, dear, no, sir!</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Curtsies and exits. All laugh except</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Weeping for my disappointment, Madame?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> No—sir—no.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> A most interesting little girl.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> That's it, that's it. She reminds me of a circumstance +that occurred in my youth, before my marriage. You must know I +had a little—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Hallo!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Takes</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>hastily up stage</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Ahem!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Takes</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Eh! What! [<i>Calling after them as they go off.</i>] You +don't understand me! A little <i>niece</i>—Oh! this is too dreadful!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Sinks into chair.</i></p> + + +<h4>END OF TABLEAU III.</h4> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2>TABLEAU IV.</h2> + + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Interior of a room in the Tower of Elfen. A large breach in the +wall at back, through which the distant country is dimly seen. +Night coming on.</i></p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Yvonnet</span> <i>discovered upon the balcony, listening. Singing in the distance. +When the singing is done, Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What are you at there, my good fellow?</p> + +<p><i>Yvonnet.</i> [<i>Startled.</i>] I was listening to the singing, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Who are the singers?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 33]</span></p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> The reapers, sir, returning home.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You, I suppose, are the keeper of these ruins?</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> Yes, sir. I am the shepherd that minds the sheep, and +shows the tower to strangers.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Shows key.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Giving money.</i>] There.</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> Thank you, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Are you never afraid here all alone?</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> Afraid! No, indeed. That is, not in the day-time, but at +night—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Ah, ah, then you have fairies, or spirits, or ghosts here, eh!</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> [<i>Disdainfully.</i>] Sir, do you take me for a superstitious fool! +It's all very well for people who don't know any better, but I—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Then you do not believe in anything of the kind?</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> I should think not, indeed. But if you come to talk about +the white lady, that's quite another matter.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Oh! so there's a white lady, is there?</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> Yes, sir, there is indeed, and she walks about on the top of +that tower over there, and where there are no stairs either. But she +is never seen in the day, only in the night, when it is quite dark.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Laughing.</i>] Yes, she is seen when it is too dark to see.</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> [<i>Looking out.</i>] Ah! Confound those sheep, at their old tricks +again. [<i>Shouts.</i>] Hi! Hi! I don't believe there's such a troublesome +set of brutes in the whole country, always climbing where they +have no business. Hi! Hi!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Throws a stone.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Why don't you jump down there?</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> Try it yourself, if you want to break your neck, my fine +gentleman. Are you going to stay long? It is getting late.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Don't be uneasy, I shall go presently.</p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> The sooner the better. I ain't a coward, but I feel more +comfortable away from here.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> This is a fine old ruin. How is it that I have never found it +out before? I must bring my sketch-book here some day. Alas! I +forgot that for me there is no future here, to-morrow—'Tis but a sad +farewell that I must bid the scenes I had begun to love so well. +Wretched heart! Is it, then, because reason, honor, everything, forbids +my loving her that—Ah! were I not the guardian of an existence +more precious than my own, I should long ago have fled this +torture!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Goes up.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> This is most fortunate, when the moon rises the view will +be charming. [<i>Suddenly sees</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.] Sir, I beg your pardon. I +was not aware, indeed—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Going.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Excuse me, Mademoiselle, I am not at home here—permit +<i>me</i> to retire.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Going.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Crossing.</i>] Stay, sir. As we happen to be alone, will you +answer me fully and frankly, one question. They tell me my manner +towards you is abrupt, unkind, even at times, offensive.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I have never complained.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 34]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> But you would leave us?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> And they say that I am the cause. Your departure, sir, +would occasion my mother sincere sorrow, which I am anxious to +spare her, if it be in my power; but I am at a loss to know what +explanation to make you—what am I to say? that the language +which has offended you, is not always sincere—that perhaps, +after all, I myself can appreciate joys and pleasures more exalted +than those which the mere possession of wealth can give. Well, it is +possible—but am I so much to blame, that I use my powers to stifle +thoughts which are forbidden me.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Forbidden?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Yes, forbidden. It may, perhaps, appear like affectation, to +complain of a destiny which so many envy—but, like my mother, I +believe that were I less rich, I should be the more happy. You have +reproached me with my continual distrust. But in whom <i>can</i> I trust? +I, who from my infancy have been surrounded—do I not know it too +well—but by false friends, grasping relatives, and suspicious suitors! +Do you suppose that I am weak and foolish enough to attribute to my +own attractions, the care, the solicitude, with which so many of these +parasites surround me; and even if a pure and noble heart, (should such +a thing exist in this world,) were capable of seeking and loving me for +what I <i>am</i>—not for what I <i>have</i>—I should never know it—[<i>with +meaning</i>]—for I should never dare the risk! And this is why I +shun, repulse, almost hate, all that is beautiful and good—all that +speaks to me of that heaven, which is, alas! forbidden me. [<i>The reapers +are again heard singing in the distance—with emotion and in +an undertone.</i>] What is that?</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Listens—lets her head fall upon her hands, and weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Tears!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>With transport.</i>] Well, yes, I can weep. Enough—I did not +intend, sir, to burthen you with so much of my confidence; but now +you know me better. You see I have a heart, and if ever I have +wounded yours, I hope you will forgive me. [<i>Gives her hand, which +he kisses, respectfully.</i>] See; the pledge of our friendship shall be this +flower, which I rudely demanded from you this morning. [<i>Gives rose.</i>] +Now let us go, [<i>returning</i>,] and never let this subject be revived between +us.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Never!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> But before I go, I must see the view from yonder height.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I beg you will not venture—do not run such a risk.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Oh! I am not afraid.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> At least take my hand, then.</p> + +<p class="center">[<i>She mounts the platform outside of the window. It begins to grow +dark.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> The height is fearful, but the view is very beautiful. I could +gaze on it forever.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 35]</span></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Yvonnet</span>. <i>He looks round without seeing them.</i></p> + +<p><i>Yvon.</i> Ah! he's gone at last. I shan't be long in following him; +I don't like this place.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit, locking door after him.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>[<i>Night comes on, the moon lighting the scene beyond.</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> +<i>comes down from tower, aided by</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> There comes the night, in good earnest; fortunately, the +moon will help us to regain our horses. Come, sir, let us hasten.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Low music from orchestra.</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>tries to open door</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> That stupid fellow has fastened it while we were upon the +tower.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Anxiously.</i>] Call to him, he cannot be far off.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Upon platform.</i>] Hallo! Come back, will you? Now he +sees me, but he only runs the faster—takes me for the white lady, I +suppose. Confound the fool!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Looking about.</i>] No other means of egress! What is to be +done?—they will die with anxiety at home.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Stay! I can descend by those trees, perhaps—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> 'Tis useless—there is an inclosed court-yard below.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> It is in vain—this door resists all my efforts. I know not +what to do.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>While</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>has gone upon platform</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Great Heaven! I see it all. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>with restrained +passion</i>.] Marquis de Champcey!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Turns quickly.</i>] My name!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Slowly.</i>] You boast a long ancestral descent. Pray tell me, +sir, are you the first <i>coward</i> of your name?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Madame!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Violently.</i>] It is you—<i>you</i> who have bribed this boy to +imprison us here!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Merciful Heavens!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Ah, I comprehend your purpose. I understand it all. To-morrow +this <i>accident</i> will be noised abroad; the ever-ready tongue +of scandal will be busy with my name, a name which, if less ancient +than your own, is full as stainless, and you trust to my despair to +make me yours! But this vile trick, which crowns all your base +maneuvering, I will thwart. I tell you, sir, that I would incur the +world's contempt, the cloister, anything—even death itself—rather +than the disgrace, the ignominy, the shame, of uniting my life to +yours!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Calmly.</i>] I entreat you to be calm. Call reason to your aid. +I understand and respect your distress, but let not your anxiety +prompt you to do me wrong. Consider! How could I have prepared +such a snare, and even were it in my power, how have I ever given +you the right to think me capable of such baseness?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Passing</i> <span class="smcap">L.</span>] All that I know of you gives me that right. +For what purpose do you enter our house, under a false name, in a +false character? We were happy before you came. You have +brought us sorrow, misery, which we dreamed not of. To attain<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 36]</span> +your object, to repair the breach in your fortune, you have usurped +our confidence, sported with our purest and most holy sentiments. +Have I not seen all this? And when you now pledge to me your +honor—that honor which was too poor and weak to save you from +these unworthy actions—have I not reason to doubt? Have I not +the right to scorn and disbelieve?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Marguerite, listen to me! I love you, it is true, and never +did love more ardent, more disinterested, more holy, live in the heart +of man. But here, with the eyes of Heaven upon us, I swear that, if +I outlive this night, all beloved as you are, were you upon your knees +at my feet, never would I accept a fortune at your hand. Never! My +heart is yours, yours to break, to crush, to trample in the dust, if it +so please you, but my honor, Madame, is my own and that I will +preserve. And now pray—pray for a miracle. It is time.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Runs to the tower.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> What would you do? God of mercy! You shall not—you +shall not!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Think, Marguerite, your name!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> You shall not! Forgive me! <i>If you love me</i>, forget what I +have said, for pity's sake, for mine!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Disengaging himself.</i>] Loose your hold.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>He repulses her, and leaps upon tower. Singing heard afar off.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Falling on her knees.</i>] Manuel! Manuel! Madman! hear +me. It is death!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> It is honor!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Throws himself down.</i></p> + +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>with a shriek, falls insensible</i>.</p> + + +<h4>END OF TABLEAU IV.</h4> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2>TABLEAU V.</h2> + +<p class="center"><i>Handsomely furnished Room in Chateau Laroque</i>—<i>Doors</i> <span class="smcap">R.</span> and <span class="smcap">L.</span>, +<i>and</i> <span class="smcap">U.</span>—<i>Candles lit.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">De Bevannes</span>, <span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span>, <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>, <span class="smcap">Alain</span>, <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span> +<i>discovered</i>—<span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span> <i>is walking about in much agitation</i>.</p> + + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.] You say she went out on horseback?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes, Madame.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Did she say at what hour she would be back.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> No, Madame.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 37]</span></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Did she not tell you she would be early in the ball-room this +evening?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> She did; and that only makes me the more apprehensive. +This anxiety is torture.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Be assured, Madame, she is safe. You know she is often out +late on fine evenings.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> But never after dark. Can nobody even tell which way +she went?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> There is one person, I think, might give us some information.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Oh! who? Why did you not say so before?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I have no doubt M. Manuel could enlighten us, if he chose.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Monsieur Manuel! what should <i>he</i> know about it?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Exactly. I do not clearly perceive why the steward must be +better informed of the young lady's movements, than her mother.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Nor I. Yet I think it would be worth while to ask him.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Alain, ask Monsieur Manuel, if he will be so good as to +come to me, at once.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Monsieur Manuel has also gone out on horseback, Madame, +and has not yet returned.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Ahem!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Ah, ha!</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> And pray, at what time did he go out?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Just before Mademoiselle Marguerite, sir.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>A pause.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> You are all marvellously silent! What do you imagine? +what do you infer? Speak, if you would not drive me mad! Still +silent! [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span>.] Mademoiselle, your looks convey some +hidden meaning. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>.] Cousin.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> What's the use of that, Madame? speak out. I always +knew you were a fool—don't make me think you are a complete +idiot! Bevannes, <i>what</i> does all this mean?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Alain.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Sir?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Did Mademoiselle go out alone?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> No, sir; with the Doctor.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Ah! then all is well.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Humph!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Bevannes, what <i>do</i> you mean? will you explain or not?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Madame, your generous nature and partiality for the steward, +has somewhat blinded your judgment; those who love you have +been more watchful. This Monsieur Manuel is—</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>—<i>His dress disordered</i>—<i>His face pale, with slight +marks of blood upon his forehead.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Here, Madame, you did me the honor to send for me.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> You have just returned, sir?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> This moment—I met Alain on the stair.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 38]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> But you are hurt, Monsieur—there's blood upon your +forehead.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Nothing of importance, I assure you; the horse fell with +me, and got a few scratches—nothing more—a little cold water will +set all to right.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> This seems to be a night of misfortunes.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> [<i>Sighs.</i>] Ah!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> <i>Do</i> be quiet.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What has happened, Madame?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Marguerite went out on horseback just after you, and has +not yet returned.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Oh, don't be alarmed—I met her.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Oh! when? where?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> About six o'clock, on the road to Elfen—she told me she +was going on to look at the ruins.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Good heavens! the ruins are in the midst of the forest, +and the roads dreadful! She must have lost her way! Alain!</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p>Order the carriage. [<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.] I will send directly—I will go +myself.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You may rest certain, Madame, that you will find her. In +the meantime, I will get rid of the evidences of my trifling fall. Be +assured your daughter is quite safe.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Come, Bevannes, order your horse, and ride by the carriage.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Thank you, but, with your permission, I'll ride <i>in</i> the carriage. +The road <i>is</i> a bad one, and if one horse stumbles, another +may.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Well, well, any way you please, only come.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Ah, poor girl, poor girl—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Don't be so distressed, Madame. It's not your little niece.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Monsieur de Bevannes, you are a brute!</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> So is a donkey, Madame, and yet one died rich in your affection. +Ah, if I could only have inherited a portion of his wealth.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I wonder if he means that. He never said anything so +civil before. I've a great mind to—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Going.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Stay—that letter of the steward's which you found in the +park—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Well?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Have you got it with you?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Of course.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Give it to me.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> To <i>you</i>! Why?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> No matter. Suffice it that my hopes, and yours—the +very life of all our plans—depend on the use I shall make of that +letter.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 39]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh, well, take it. [<i>Gives letter.</i>] I'm sure you'll make +much better use of it than I can. [<i>Aside.</i>] Upon my life I'll go and +ask Bevannes what he meant by that.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Why, why did nature endow me with a heart to suffer, an +intellect to comprehend? Had I been born a fool, like that woman, +this dependent state would have brought with it calm endurance, if +not happiness. But, as I <i>am</i>, it is misery. How easy is bounty to +the rich. How natural is virtue to the happy. He heard my words +as he came in—must have divined their purport. Well, well, if I +have taught him to despise me, he shall learn to fear me, too. He +dared to read me a lesson, and I hate him for it, even though I profit +by it. If I must fall, he shall share the ruin he has caused.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Helouin!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Marguerite!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Hush! To prevent remark, I came by the small stairway, +through the conservatory. My mother has been anxious?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Much alarmed. She has gone to seek you.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I know it. I have sent Alain to overtake and bring her back. +Before she comes, I have a word to say to you. It is of Monsieur +Manuel. I have strong reason to believe that you have most strangely +misjudged his character and his intentions.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I know him to be the Marquis de Champcey.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> And <i>I</i> know that if his birth be noble, his heart is no less so.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> It is very recently, then, that you have made the discovery.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> True. Now mark. You have seen the ruins of Elfen?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I have. I was once there with a party, and was the only +woman who dared ascend the tower.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> You know the danger, then. Well, I care not now if all the +world should hear it. We were alone. By accident, imprisoned in +those ruins. I rashly, blindly, <i>falsely</i> accused him, and he, to save +my honor and his own, plunged from that tower in to the gulf beneath!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> But he escaped.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I know it and have thanked God for the miracle. I had not +strength to implore.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Upon my word, this is an extraordinary man.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Mademoiselle—</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And understands so well how to turn his talents to the +best account. Why, poor child, and you don't see through all this? +Yesterday it was a swimming match, producing an admirably planned +and effectual scene. To-night, it is an exhibition of daring activity. +The gentleman has been brilliantly educated.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> You evidently hate him.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And why? On my own account? No! What is he to +<i>me</i>? But when I see that he dares to bring his plots and machinations +here, and intends you for their victim, I am free to confess, I +<i>do</i> despise and hate him!<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 40]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> These are grave accusations. What proof have you to support +them?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Ah, you suspect me. For the sake of this stranger, you +doubt the truth of one you have known for years? Well, be it so—I +will give you proof, since you demand it. Do you know his handwriting?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I do. I have had to look over many papers he has copied +for my mother.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Look at that letter. Now listen: [<i>Reads.</i>] "<i>My dear +Desmarets: I follow your instructions exactly. But will they avail to +win for me the bright reward for all I have to endure. I do not +think the dowry wilt be as large as I had hoped.</i>—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Great Heavens!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> "<i>But I have sworn to win it, and though there are many +obstacles here to make the task a hard one, yet, to achieve it, I will +serve, like Jacob, for forty years, if need be</i>—What a pity he did not +finish it. This was found under the window of his room by Madame +Aubrey and, by her, handed to me.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Enough. My resolution is taken.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Oh, my dear child! What a state I have been in about +you. How did you get back? What happened?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> The shepherd, who locks up the tower of Elfen, happened to +fasten it before I left. Some reapers returning home, heard my cries +and brought him back to release me, that is all.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Ah, Monsieur, you have recovered from the effects of +your fall, I hope?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Entirely, Madame.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>.] But you, my child, must be fatigued, +nervous—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> On the contrary, dearest mother, I never felt better or more +cheerful than to-night, which I will prove to you whenever the ball +commences.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> The ball! why, surely, you'll never think of—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Dancing? Indeed but I shall though—and you, M. de Bevannes, +will be my first partner, will you not?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> With the greatest delight—but pray, let me advise—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Advise nothing—you shall be my chief cavalier for the +evening.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> But my dress—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Your residence is hardly two miles from this; you can go +home, dress, and be here again—all within an hour.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Speaks to</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] This anxiety portends something. Bevannes, my +boy, the chase is nearly over, for the quarry is in sight.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 41]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Nonsense, my dear mother! I will have my own way for +once.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> For <i>once</i>!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> My carriage shall take M. de Bevannes, and bring him back. +Where are all the servants? Here, some one—oh! the steward! go +and order my carriage.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>Surprised at her tone of voice.</i>] My dear.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Quietly rising and ringing a bell, which summons</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>, +<i>who enters</i>.] I believe Mlle Marguerite has some orders for you.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Mademoiselle—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I have none—you may leave the room.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Come, come, this sort of thing won't do.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Monsieur de Bevannes.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> As you please—but permit me to regret that I have not the +right to interfere here.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Your regret is unnecessary, sir—for if I did not see fit to +obey the lady's orders, I hold myself at yours.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Enough, sir; I shall act accordingly.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Gentlemen, I beg, I entreat—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Monsieur de Bevannes.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Mademoiselle?</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Have the goodness to follow me—I must speak with you in +the presence of my mother only. Not a word, if you would ever +speak with me again—follow me now, at once.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit with</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.] I believe, sir, we comprehend each other?</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>bows</i>—<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>—<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>turns and encounters the +look of</i> <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span>, <i>who curtsies and exits</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I see plainly now to whom I owe all this. Well, well, what +matters it to whom? The one thin ray of light upon my desolate and +gloomy path has vanished. Pshaw! This is no time for dreams or +vain regrets.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Rings.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.</p> + +<p>Has Dr. Desmarets returned?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> No, Monsieur.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> The moment he arrives I must see him.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> I know—I know all about it. I overheard. Oh, sir, this is +most unfortunate.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> It is, but unavoidable. I did not seek it—</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> And that devil of a Bevannes is a fine swordsman, and the +best pistol-shot in Brittany.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> So much the better. The contest will be the more equal.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Indeed!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I have had much practice with both weapons.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Oh then, pray do me one favor, sir. Don't kill him, but hit +him in the leg. He's so deuced proud of his leg and foot.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 42]</span></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> There, that will do. Let me know the instant the Doctor +arrives.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> I will sir, I will, but don't forget. Pray don't forget the +leg—the leg, sir, if you love me.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> For myself, it matters not, but my sister, my little darling, +helpless sister—should I fall—Oh! Heaven, let my errors be so atoned, +and look down in pity on the orphan child, bereaved of earthly succor, +to be the more dependent upon thine.</p> + +<p class="center">[<i>As he raises his head, he perceives</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span> <i>approaching, and his +bearing becomes calm and resolute</i>.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Monsieur Manuel, can I have a few words with you?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I am at your service, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> What I am about to say, considering our position, may seem +irregular, but I obey orders which cannot be disputed. Besides, I +believe no man can doubt my courage—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Not I, be assured, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> To be brief, I am commissioned by the ladies to express their +regret for what has just occurred. M'lle Marguerite, in a moment of +forgetfulness, gave you certain orders, which it was plainly not your +province to fulfil. Your susceptibility was justly wounded. We +admit it, and—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Not one word more, sir, I entreat.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Your hand. [<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>gives his hand</i>.] The ladies also desire +me to express their hope that this momentary misunderstanding will +not deprive them of your good offices, the value of which they fully +appreciate, and I am extremely happy in having acquired within the +last few minutes, the right to join my entreaty to theirs. My most +ardent wish is about to be gratified.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Indeed?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> And I shall feel personally obliged if you will not refuse us +your aid upon the eve of an event which family affairs and the failing +health of old Monsieur Laroque compels us to hasten.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>with a box containing deeds, &c.</i></p> + +<p>Oh, thank you. Place it on the table. [<span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>does so and exits.</i>] +These are the private papers and memoranda of Mons. Laroque, and +the ladies beg, as a proof of their entire confidence, that you will +examine them and take notes of such matters as will prove important +to the marriage contract.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I shall obey their orders to the best of my ability.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Thank you, my dear fellow. I feel assured you will, and +now, I trust, we shall in future, understand one another better. I +do not think that, hitherto, either of us has formed a correct estimate +of the other. I protest to you that I'm disposed to like <i>you</i> immensely. +For myself, I'm a very nice man, but I must be cultivated. Cultivate<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 43]</span> +me, my dear sir, and I give you my word you'll find me one of the +most agreeable fellows you ever knew; you will, indeed. Cultivate +me, I beg.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Well, well. He is her equal in fortune, and therefore, of +course, above suspicion. Poor girl! She is unaware that, in this world +the greatest beggars are not, always the poorest. She would see how +I can support the torture she inflicts. She shall be gratified, for she +shall see me even at the foot of the altar. But she will not triumph +there, for her pride, lofty as it is, shall pale before my own. Now to +my work. [<i>Sits and turns over papers.</i>] Nothing here that I have +not seen before. "Title Deeds to"—Umph! "Legacies to my children." +"Marriage portion for Marguerite" and—Ah! What's this? +My name! "The Antilles"—yes, I remember, our family had large +estates there, but that, was long ago. Let me see, let me see. [<i>He +reads, and as he does so his face expresses, first, surprise, and then +conviction and triumph.</i>] Great Heaven! And can this be so? Miserable +old man. This, then, is the secret of your wanderings, your +visions, and of my unsought influence. And now, <i>now</i> I have them in +my power. They shall find that there is still some blood left in the +heart that they would crush. This proud, unfeeling girl, has yet to +learn the meaning of that bitter word, <i>humility</i>, and she <i>shall</i> learn it.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>speaks without</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> He will soon return, dear mother. Meantime I will prepare +for the ball.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>She enters, crosses slowly, and exit, after a look at</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> No—no—I can <i>not</i>! Never, never, by my act, shall the +blush of shame crimson that noble face. Laroque cannot live long. +Let his crime and his confession die before him! [<i>Music.</i>] To my +deep love I consecrate the sacrifice.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Burns paper.</i> <i>While he contemplates it burning</i>, <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span> +<i>looks in unseen by him</i>.</p> + + +<h4>SCENE II.—<i>A hall in the Chateau.</i></h4> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>, <i>meeting</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Alain, who arrived just now?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> The Doctor, sir. He's gone to Monsieur Laroque's room.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Is Mademoiselle Marguerite's carriage ready for me?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Quite ready, Monsieur.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Very well. Tell the ladies I shall be back in an hour, at most.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> You'll have to drive fast, sir, to do it in the time.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I shall make my toilette less perfect than usual, and take an +elaborate revenge another time.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Desmarets</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Bevannes that you? where are you off to?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Home, for a short time.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 44]</span></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Better stay where you are—the ladies may want your assistance.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I know—at the ball—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Ball? stuff! If I don't mistake, you'll have something else +to think of. Alain, let that prescription be sent to the village immediately.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes, Doctor.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Why, what's the matter?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Old Laroque is very ill to-night. By the by, what's this he +told me about a marriage in the family?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Quite true. The fair Marguerite has become alive to my +merits—she knows me at last.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> And accepts you?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Of course.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Little fool.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Sir!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I don't mean <i>you</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Ah!</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> I tell you what, my friend, you hardly know what you've +undertaken. I wish you joy—I wouldn't have the management of +girl for a trifle. Ecod! if she takes a fancy to the <i>moon</i>, she'll expect +you to give it her.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Oh, I'm not afraid. However, I'll go and dress, as it is her +wish, and take the chance of the ball coming off.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> And you've determined to marry her?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Most certainly.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Spite of all her caprices?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Decidedly—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> And if she wants the moon—</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> She must fetch it herself.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Queer match—what does it mean? As to her loving that +fellow, I don't believe a word of it. Now to the old man—it won't +do to leave him alone—he's got one of his wandering fits on him, and +he'll be all over the house if I don't look to him. What a nice quiet +life a doctor's is.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + + +<h4>SCENE III.—<i>Same as First</i>—<i>Music.</i></h4> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>discovered asleep</i>—<span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span> <i>opens door and looks in</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Worn out with the day's excitement, he's asleep at last. +[<i>Comes in.</i>] What could that paper have been, I saw him burn? Ah! +there's the envelope he threw away, when he put it in the flame. +[<i>Picks it up.</i>] So, so—what's that? a footstep.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Monsieur Laroque</span> <i>opens door and looks in</i>—<i>He is very pale and +appears much exhausted</i>—<i>He looks back and beckons, as if to followers</i>—<i>Music +ceases.</i></p></div> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> This way—this way—quickly—but silently. Silently, men<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 45]</span> +or we shall spoil all. Remember, they are <i>English</i>, and spare not! +no quarter! no quarter, mind—but softly—softly—and fire not until +I give the word! Then—then—every drop of Saxon blood shall float +a world of crime from off my soul! One moment—<i>now! now!</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>He raises his arm, as if to strike, when he sees</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>upon whose +face the lamp throws a powerful light</i>—<i>A pause.</i></p> + +<p>Heaven have mercy! 'tis he. At such an hour as this I can <i>not</i> be +mistaken! It is he—[<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>awakes</i>.]—My Lord Marquis!</p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>appears</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> What is this?</p> + +<p><i>Lar.</i> Pity—pity—and forgive me.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>all at once comprehending, advances to</i> <span class="smcap">M. Laroque</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Miserable man, I pity, and I forgive.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> What does this mean?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Oh, nothing, Mademoiselle, but I thought it better to humor +his delirium.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<span class="smcap">Laroque</span> <i>staggers</i>. <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>places him in chair</i>.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>, <span class="smcap">Desmarets</span>, <span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Grandfather, dearest, speak to me—it is Marguerite, your +child, to whom you were always so good, who loves you so. You +have some thought, some remembrance which torments you. Is it +not so? Tell me, dearest, tell your own Marguerite.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Music.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Laroque</span> <i>looks up, makes one or two endeavors to speak, when his +head again falls on his breast</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Mother! mother! Oh Heavens! Can nothing be done?</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Dr. Desmarets</span> <i>places his hand on</i> <span class="smcap">Laroque's</span> <i>heart, and looks at</i> +<span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>who, in answer to an appeal from</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>and</i> +<span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>, <i>points upwards</i>.</p></div> + + +<h4>END TABLEAU V.</h4> + + +<h3>Lapse of Some Months.</h3> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 46]</span></p> +<h2>TABLEAU VI.</h2> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Saloon in the Chateau Laroque splendidly decorated and furnished. +Arches</i> <span class="smcap">R.</span>, <span class="smcap">L.</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">C.</span> <span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>and Servants discovered arranging +furniture, lighting lamps, &c.</i></p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Music.</i></p></div> + + +<p><i>Alain.</i> There now. I think everything is pretty well arranged +here, so run away all of you and see to the preparations outside. +[<i>Exeunt servants.</i>] 'Pon my life I'm nearly done up. All of a sudden +to change a house that has, for the last five months appeared +like a mourning coach, into a dandified, bright-looking mansion prepared +for a marriage fete, requires more inventive genius than ever I +shall get credit for. If I could only extend my transforming powers +to the faces of the family, I should be much gratified, for such a +grim-looking household exists not in Brittany at this moment. +There's M'lle Marguerite. The nearer the time approaches for the +marriage, the paler she grows. Madame Laroque does nothing but +freeze and shiver, Mons. Manuel is absent for days together, and Madame +Aubrey weeps a good tea-cup full about every two hours. Cheerful +work, very.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Mademoiselle Helouin</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Alain go and tell Monsieur Manuel I wish for a few moments' +conversation with him.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Monsieur Manuel, M'lle? Why, bless you, he's been at +Largeot for the last three days.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> He has returned. I saw him ride into the court-yard +some fifteen minutes since.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Where shall I tell him to come to you, Mademoiselle?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Are all your preparations made here?</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Yes, Mademoiselle. I have sent the servants to other work.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Request, Mons. Manuel, then, to see me here, and to come +instantly, as it is important I should speak to him at once.</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Very well, Mademoiselle.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Mlle Helouin goes to Arches and ascertains that no one is near to +listen.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And now, Manuel Marquis de Champcey, we will try +the issue. How often and how vainly do I question my own heart. +Were Manuel other than he is, should I pursue him thus? What motive +sways my action? Is it love? Ambition? Both? I know not, +and will not reflect. There lies the path. Some resistless impulse +urges me along, nor will I, <i>can</i> I swerve, till all is won or lost.</p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle, good evening. Alain informs me that you +wish to speak with me.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 47]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> For a few moments. Your stay at Langeot has been +shorter than usual.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> I returned a day earlier than I had intended. Respect for +the family suggests that I should not be absent on an occasion like +the present.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> An occasion that gives you an opportunity of showing +that you possess <i>moral</i>, as well as physical courage, of no common +order.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You are pleased to be enigmatical.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I shall indulge in no enigma that you cannot speedily +solve. And now. Manuel, take good heed of what I say, but I warn +you do not judge me by a common standard. My nature and my +sad dependant lot, place me beyond the pale of those born for a happier +fate. From the first hour we met, my heart was drawn insensibly +towards you. Still that heart was safe. A mere spark existed, +which reason and reflection might have killed; you yourself, in defining +the bond of sympathy between us, raised from that spark a flame.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Madame, in justice to myself, I must interrupt you. Never +by word or deed have I—</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Go on sir, pray do not spare me. Never have you <i>encouraged</i>, +you would say. Well, I grant it. Be it so. Your reserve and +coldness could not alter me. What fire but burns the fiercer in the +frosty air? And yet if you have pride, so too have I, and I will confess +that something more exists to keep the flame alive than love. +Ambition, and the hope to triumph over one who is a rival. These, I +am free to own, would be incentives enough for me, if love existed not.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle, at the risk of appearing vain, I must tell you +you are most fortunate.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Indeed sir, how so?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> In saying all this to a <i>gentleman</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Oh, sir, of that I'm well aware, by birth—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And <i>principle</i>. I do not affect to despise the one, but I take +more pride in the other. The first, is for the present, buried. Therefore, +if you have any appeal to make, let it be to the last.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I <i>have</i> an appeal to make, but, even though compelled to +differ with so sage an adviser, I shall make it to an ally more powerful +than either.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And what is that?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Self interest.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> You think so?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> I'm sure of it.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Will you permit me to suggest that an important ceremony +is to take place in this room to-night, and the hour approaches.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Well, then, if I appear abrupt, attribute it to your delicate +reminder, and not to my own desire. You love Marguerite Laroque—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle, this is beyond—</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> You love Marguerite Laroque. That love is hopeless.<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 48]</span> +Everything is prepared for the ceremony you speak of, and if a shade +of doubt as to her destiny existed, it can live no longer now. I possess +a secret which, if given to the world, will compromise your honesty +as a man, your honor as a gentleman, and sink the proud name +you bear to a depth that even the despised governess could look down +upon with pity. Manuel Marquis de Champcey, give <i>me</i> the title <i>she</i> +can never bear, and I am silent. A wife none the less devoted because, +at first, unsought—a friend none the less sincere, though newly +found.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Mademoiselle, you are a singular instance of a well known +fact.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> And what may that be, sir?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> That the cleverest people sometimes do the silliest things. +Had you been a simple, uneducated rustic, you would have reflected +seriously before you lowered yourself in the opinion of the man you +professed to love. But, as you are—accomplished, shrewd, and resolute, +you have taken the worst road by which to gain the end you +coveted. Nay more; you have allowed impulse to snatch the reins +from principle, and those unbroken steeds, Passion and Ambition, +have taken the bit in their mouths, galloped off with common sense, +and I very much fear it will cost you some time and trouble to come +up with them. I need hardly add, Mademoiselle, that I decline continuing +this conversation.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> [<i>After a pause.</i>] Be it so. The sooner ended the sooner +to my work. I swear, the thought of the revenge I'll take on this +proud fool, makes me all but rejoice in failure. [<i>Music heard without.</i>] +The guests are arriving. I must not be found here.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>, <i>then two servants, who arrange tables, chairs, &c.</i> <i>Enter</i> +<span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span>, <span class="smcap">M'lle Marguerite</span>, <span class="smcap">M De Bevannes</span>, <span class="smcap">Desmaret</span>, +<span class="smcap">Mons. Nouret</span>, <span class="smcap">M'lle Helouin</span>, <span class="smcap">Madam Aubrey</span>, <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> +<i>and Guests</i>.</p></div> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>to servants.</i>] That will do, you may retire.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exeunt</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>and servants</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Before you proceed to business, Monsieur Nouret, I will +make a few preliminary remarks, if you will allow me.</p> + +<p><i>Mons. Nouret.</i> Certainly, Doctor. Pray speak.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> For the information of those friends of the family who are +yet unacquainted with the facts, I wish to state that, before the death +of M. Laroque, he wrote a letter to be given to me, his oldest friend, +when he was no more. I shall read a short extract. [<i>Reads.</i>] "For +these reasons it is my earnest desire, nay positive injunction, that my +grand-daughters' marriage shall take place within six months of my +death, with the same ceremonies and rejoicings as though I were still +living, and the reading of the will shall immediately succeed the +marriage." And now, Monsieur, before proceeding, it is necessary +for you to state that all is ready for the reading of the will immediately +on our return.</p> + +<p><i>Mons.</i> N. I trust all <i>will</i> be ready, Doctor; but, at present, I can<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 49]</span>not +say it is so, for although I find the will and codicils of the deceased +to be in the most perfect order, and numbered in regular succession, +I have, thus far, been unable to discover the first of the series, +marked No. 1. All the rest are here—2, 3, 4, and 5—but 1 is +wanting. Now the legacies are, with the exception of a few to the +old servants, entirely to Mons. Laroque's blood relations.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> [<i>Weeps.</i>] Oh!</p> + +<p><i>Mons. N.</i> Be comforted Madame, he was indeed a kind man. His +blood relations have all been thought of.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> But I'm <i>not</i> a blood relation. Oh!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Is it not possible that the missing paper may contain—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> No doubt of it, no doubt of it. And that is burnt.</p> + +<p><i>All.</i> Burnt!</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> You saw Mons. Manuel, the steward, burn a paper. You +found the envelope, and gave it to me?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I did, but I never—</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Silence! [<i>Gives envelope to</i> <span class="smcap">Mons. Nouret</span>.] Examine +that, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Mons. N.</i> It is the hand-writing of the deceased, and the envelope +of the peculiar size and make of all the others.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>All look at</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Monsieur Manuel, what have you to say to this?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Speak, sir.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> The lady is right, I <i>did</i> burn the paper.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Great Heavens!</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>All rise.</i></p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> But she is mistaken as to the purport of the document.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Upon my soul this is a little too strong.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Oh, Monsieur Manuel, do not tell me you have so far +abused our confidence. Do not tell me that one whom I had begun to +love almost as a son, has fallen low enough to commit so vile an act. +I am an old woman, sir, and in the course of nature, you must outlive +me. My child is provided for. You shall share with me while +I live, and all I have shall be yours at last if you will but refute this, +if you will but give me the joy of knowing you are innocent.</p> + +<p><i>Mons. N.</i> Come sir, this painful matter may be set at rest, perhaps, +if you will tell us the content of that paper.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Manuel, my son.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Oh! for my sake!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Looks at</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>and says</i>.] I will not speak.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit</i> <span class="smcap">Desmarets</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> [<i>After a short pause.</i>] Then sir, much as it pains me, +you must, clearly understand that we can live no longer under the +same roof.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> [<i>Going.</i>] I know it, madame.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> And [<i>He turns at the sound of her voice</i>,] have you <i>nothing</i>, +not <i>one</i> word to say in your defence?</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Not one word.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Oh Marguerite, my joy on this occasion is lost in this +most unhappy discovery.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] And my misery doubled. Do not follow me, dear +mother, I will rejoin you directly.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 50]</span><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh!—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Weeps.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> My dear madame, I beg to remind you that this is my wedding +day. Pray reserve your tears till after the ceremony. [<i>Re-enter</i> +<span class="smcap">Desmarets</span>.] My friends, if you will adjourn to the reception room, +the carriages will be ready immediately.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exeunt guests and</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">M'lle H.</span>] Mademoiselle, you do not appear as much +shocked as we are by this unfortunate discovery.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Simply, Doctor, because, knowing the gentleman, I am +not surprised.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> You are not?</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Not at all.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Umph! Bevannes, my dear fellow, I'm loth to delay an event +which, by a popular but pleasant fallacy, is supposed to be the happiest +in a man's life, but I must request, before we go to the chapel, +that you will give me a few moments of your attention.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Certainly Doctor; the evening's before us. Pray vary the entertainment +according to your own taste.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> My dear madame, I must also request <i>your</i> presence, and, as +what I am about to say is important, and guests are still arriving, +this apartment will soon become too public for our purpose, therefore, +with your permission, we'll retire to the library which, as the +works it contains are purely instructive, is about the last place our +fashionable friends are likely to visit.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> Had we not better wait until we return from—</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> By no means. What I have to say must be said at once, and +so, madame, permit me.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Offers arm.</i></p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Doctor, that's a remarkably nice young man you recommended +for steward.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Never mind him. We'll talk about him to-morrow.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exeunt.</i></p> + +<p class="center"><i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>dressed for traveling</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> For her, for her, this bitter, bitter trial. Oh, let that thought +sustain me. Falsely I had imagined that the change from the sweet +dreamy days of my youth, to the stern realities of my manhood, had +created for me that tower of strength to the unfortunate—endurance. +But, no, no; too truly do I feel that, until this moment, I have not +known what utter misery is—one last, last look at scenes made sacred +by her presence; at objects hallowed by her touch, and then, and +then—</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>He sinks into a chair.</i></p> + +<p class="center">[<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>. <i>She comes down slowly.</i>]</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Manuel!</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Marguerite!</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Hush! move not, nor speak till you have heard me. I am +here to ask forgiveness.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Forgiveness?<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 51]</span></p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Now, now, I know your truth, too late, oh, Heavens! too +late late I know your pure, unselfish heart. You bore suspicion, insult, +scorn, but I believed you not. How nobly you risked life for +honor; yet I believed you not.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> At last then—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> At last, conviction came; that letter you mislaid—</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Relating to my sister—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Aye, and <i>not</i> to me. I know it now, Desmarets told me all.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> And could you think—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> I did, I did. Oh, do not scorn me, but grant my prayer, the +first, the <i>last</i> you'll ever hear from Marguerite. There is some mystery +hidden beneath your refusal to speak of the paper you destroyed—some +reason which refers to <i>me</i>. Do not deny it, for I know it. +You cannot deceive the watchful eyes of love—for <i>I love you</i>, Manuel. +We <i>must</i> part, and forever. My word is pledged already for +my marriage with Bevannes. But by the love which you professed +for me, for your dear sister's sake, for <i>mine</i>, [<i>she kneels</i>,] clear your +good name of this foul stain. Oh, Manuel! Manuel! do it in pity +for the rash, unhappy girl, who, with ruin staring at her from the +fatal rock, suspicion, spite of reason, spite of warning, wildly, madly +dashed herself upon the shore and made her heart a wreck.</p> + +<p class="center">[<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">M'lle Helouin</span>.]</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Good. I could not have wished it otherwise. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. +Laroque</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Desmarets</span> <i>who appear with</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Aubrey</span>, <i>guests +and</i> <span class="smcap">Mons. Nouret</span>.] Look, Madame! Look, sir! Observe the faithful, +loyal steward, who, not content with fraud and betrayal of his +trust, still lingers on the scene of his disgrace. Behold the proud +<i>gentleman</i>, who completes his list of honorable actions by ensnaring +the affections of that unthinking girl—the betrothed wife of another, +the daughter of his benefactress. [<span class="smcap">Madame Laroque</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Desmarets</span> +<i>raise</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>, <i>who is almost fainting</i>.] Well, you hear all this; +you witness it—you are men and stir not—your friend is betrayed—an +aged lady insulted in your presence, yet there stands the man, +erect and fearless. Will you bear this, I say, or will you cast him +forth like the dog he is?</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>The gentlemen make a movement toward</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Stop. Before Mons. Manuel departs, I have a piece of intelligence +to communicate, which it is important for <i>him</i>, as well as you, +to hear. You will the better comprehend it, if I request your patience +while I read a portion of this paper, left in my care by Mons. +Laroque, with discretionary power to destroy or reveal its contents as +my judgment should dictate. Under present circumstances I choose the +latter course. This is in the old man's own handwriting, and you +will admit, is an important episode in his history. The events described +occurred in the West Indies. [<i>Reads.</i>] "On the approach +of hostilities between the French and English, my father, Pierre +Laroque, who was steward to the then Marquis de Champcey, received +orders to sell immediately, the magnificent estates on the<span class='pagenum'>[Pg 52]</span> +island, and then to join the Marquis (who commanded a small +French fleet) and to bring with him the money realized from the +sale. The estates were sold for a very large sum. With this money +my father and myself started to join the Marquis, but, on our way +were interrupted by an English frigate and taken prisoners. My +father died defending himself. I was promised my life, and permission +to escape with whatever money we had with us when taken, +if I would reveal the hiding place of the French fleet. How shall +I write the words? <i>I yielded.</i> A large English force attacked +them. The Marquis was killed, and I came to France a wealthy, +but dishonored man." Such is the confession left in my hands. +Such is the confession which makes the present Marquis de Champcey +master of this and all the property the old man left, and such is the +duplicate of the paper which that young man destroyed.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>[<i>Great sensation among all the dramatis personæ.</i> <i>The Doctor leads</i> +<span class="smcap">Marguerite</span> <i>to</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>then turns and embraces</i> <span class="smcap">Mad. Laroque</span>. +<i>Guests crowd round</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>, <i>congratulating him</i>.]</p></div> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Madame Aubrey</span>.] Hark'ye Madame—</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh! go away, you nasty thing. You've made a pretty +mess of it. You've caused me to do mischief enough. I won't be +corrupted by you any more.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>She goes to</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>and shakes hands with him violently</i>.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> [<i>Aside.</i>] Baffled. Foiled at every turn. [<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Bevannes</span>.] +Ah! no. One hope <i>is</i> left. Mons. de Bevannes, you are +well arrived. In good time to defend your honor, which is greviously +in peril here. That man, the steward, by a strange reverse of +fortune, has become master of this great estate.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> So I have already been informed.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Well, look there. Have you eyes?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Madame, you wound my vanity.</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Do you not see that the new master here is likely to become +lord where you alone should reign? Will you tamely submit +and give her up?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Madame, you just now reflected on my person, now you do +worse; you attack my heart. Do you think I am the man to step +between two devoted young creatures for my own selfish ends? No! +The moment I found the dear girl was penniless, I destroyed the contract, +and in the most generous manner, gave her back her word.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. L.</i> I won't go near her. I do believe she'd bite me. Doctor, +will <i>you</i> have the goodness?</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Mlle Helouin</span>.] Mademoiselle, you were very anxious +just now for somebody to turn out—I don't wish to be ungallant—but +what is going to take place here will coincide so little with your +arrangements, that the ladies think—that perhaps—</p> + +<p><i>Mlle H.</i> Enough, sir. [<i>To</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span>.] If I am criminal, you shall +not call me hypocrite. I go, and as a parting gift, take from me such +wishes for your future, as bitter scorn and baffled hate may leave.</p> + +<p class="ralign">[<i>Exit.</i></p> + +<p><span class='pagenum'>[Pg 53]</span><i>Bev.</i> A very nice young person that.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> But come, come, what the deuce are you all standing here +for?</p> + +<p class="center">[<i>Enter</i> <span class="smcap">Alain</span>.]</p> + +<p><i>Alain.</i> Please Madame, the grounds are lit up, the carriages ready +and all the country folks are waiting.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Come. The bride and bridegroom. Come along.</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Now—at once? Oh, Doctor.</p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> Now—at once? Of course; do you think all our pretty preparations +are to go for nothing?</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Mademoiselle, I've got myself up utterly regardless of expense, +and if <i>somebody</i> ain't married, I shall withdraw my consent.</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Oh, Mons. de Bevannes do not let that deter you, if you +meant what you said the evening Mons. Laroque died.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> I!</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> Why, be it so.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> Be it so? Be it what, Madame?</p> + +<p><i>Mad. A.</i> I will dispense with further courtship.</p> + +<p><i>Bev.</i> You may, for an indefinite period.</p> +<p class="ralign">[<i>They go up.</i></p> + +<p><i>Des.</i> So, as soon as Manuel has changed his dress—</p> + +<p><i>Mar.</i> Nay, dear Manuel, you shall not change it. For the last +time, obey the headstrong girl. In that dress you often bore her +taunts and insults; in that same dress you shall receive her vows of +love and duty.</p> + +<p><i>Man.</i> Let it be so then. I will but ask one ornament—the bud +you wear upon your breast. [<i>She detaches it from her dress.</i>] Look +at it, dearest. It lacks the rich color and the gorgeous blush of one +you gave me once before. But that was lost and trampled under +foot. There let it fade, and typify the errors and misfortunes past, +whilst this, just putting forth its beauty into life, shall be an emblem +of dear hopes and happiness to come.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>[<span class="smcap">Alain</span> <i>gives a signal—the same chorus as in fourth tableau is heard. +The curtains are suddenly drawn back from the three arches, +showing the park and grounds splendidly illuminated with colored +lamps, and the peasantry assembled, in their picturesque Breton holiday +costume; a troop of little girls headed by</i> <span class="smcap">Christine</span>, <i>form, +and strew flowers before</i> <span class="smcap">Manuel</span> <i>and</i> <span class="smcap">Marguerite</span>, <i>and the Curtain +falls on a Tableau</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h4>THE END.</h4> + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Romance of a Poor Young Man, by +Pierrepont Edwards and Lester Wallace + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A POOR YOUNG MAN *** + +***** This file should be named 35342-h.htm or 35342-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/5/3/4/35342/ + +Produced by Charlene Taylor, Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images +produced by the Wright American Fiction Project.) + + +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 Romance of a Poor Young Man + A Drama Adapted from the French of Octave Feuillet + +Author: Pierrepont Edwards + Lester Wallace + +Release Date: February 21, 2011 [EBook #35342] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A POOR YOUNG MAN *** + + + + +Produced by Charlene Taylor, Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images +produced by the Wright American Fiction Project.) + + + + + + + + + + THE STANDARD DRAMA. + + The Acting Edition. + + NO. CCXXV. + + + THE ROMANCE OF + A POOR YOUNG MAN. + + A Drama, adapted from the French of + OCTAVE FEUILLET, + + BY MESSRS. PIERREPONT EDWARDS AND LESTER WALLACK. + + TO WHICH ARE ADDED + + A Description of the Costume--Cast of the Characters--Entrances + and Exits--Relative Positions of the Performers on the Stage, and + the whole of the Stage Business + + Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1859, by LESTER + WALLACK, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the + Southern District of New York. + + NEW YORK: + SAMUEL FRENCH, PUBLISHER, + 122 NASSAU STREET, (UP STAIRS.) + + + + +CHARACTERS REPRESENTED. + + + _Manuel, Marquis de Champcey_, Mr. Lester Wallack. + + _Doctor Desmarets,--formerly of the French Army_, Mr. Brougham. + + _M. de Bevannes--a man of the world_, Mr. Walcot. + + _Gaspar Laroque--an aged man, formerly Captain of a Privateer_, + Mr. Dyott. + + _Alain--a confidential domestic_, Mr. Young. + + _M. Nouret--a Notary_, Mr. Levere. + + _Yvonnet--a Breton Shepherd_, Mr. Baker. + + _Henri_, Mr. Oliver. + + _Louis_, Mr. Coburn. + + _Madame Laroque--Daughter-in-Law to Gaspar_, Mrs. Vernon. + + _Marguerite--her daughter_, Mrs. Hoey. + + _Mlle Helouin--a Governess_, + + _Madame Aubrey--a relative of the Laroque family_, + Miss Mary Gannon. + + _Louise Vauberger--formerly nurse to Manuel, now keeper of a lodging + house_, Mrs. Walcot. + + _Christine--a Breton peasant girl_, Miss Fanny Reeves. + + _Guests, Servants, Peasantry, &c., &c._ + + +The events of the Drama take place (during the 1st Act) in Paris, +afterward in the Province of Britanny. + +Costumes of the present day. + +The Overture, incidental Music, and Choruses composed and arranged by +Mr. Robert Stoepel. + + + + +A POOR YOUNG MAN. + + + + +TABLEAU I. + + + _A Room, simply furnished--Table, Chairs, Arm Chair, Secretaire, + Side Table--Door C._ + + _MADAME VAUBERGER peeps in L._ + +_Madame Vauberger._ No; he has not yet returned. [_Enters._] Things +cannot go on in this manner much longer--I shall have to speak out, and +plainly too. And why not? Surely he won't take it ill from me--ah, no. +I, who loved his poor mother so, could never--What's this? A purse! +empty! And this key, left carelessly lying about; that's a bad sign. +[_Opens Secretaire._] No, not one solitary sous--his last coin came +yesterday to pay me the rent. In the drawer, perhaps-- + + _DR. DESMARETS looks in._ + +_Dr. Desmarets._ Hallo! [_She starts._] What are you at there? + +_Mad. V._ Me, sir? I was just--I was just-- + +_Des._ Poking your nose into that drawer--that what you call just? + +_Mad. V._ I was dusting and putting the things in order, sir. + +_Des._ I'll tell you what, Madame V., you're an extraordinary woman. +Yesterday, when I called, you were dusting--half-an-hour ago when I +called, you were dusting--and now, when I call again, you're dusting. +Where the devil you find so much dust to dust, _I_ can't think. + +_Mad. V._ Ah, sir, look into this drawer. + +_Des._ What for? + +_Mad. V._ Is it not the place where, if one had money, one would +naturally keep it? + +_Des._ I suppose so. What of that? + +_Mad. V._ See, sir, it is empty. + +_Des._ What's that to me? + +_Mad. V._ And his purse, also. + +_Des._ What's that to you? [_Goes up and puts hat on table._ + +_Mad. V._ [_Aside._] I dare not tell him that Manuel is without a +meal--starving--I should never be forgiven. His _pride_ would be +wounded, and nothing could excuse that. + +_Des._ Well, what are you cogitating about? Looking for something to +dust? + +_Mad. V._ I'm thinking of the Marquis, sir. + +_Des._ Well, what of him? + +_Mad. V._ Is it not dreadful? Brought up as he has been--surrounded by +every luxury--and now reduced to want even. Oh! it is too hard--too +hard! + +_Des._ Well, it's his own fault, isn't it? There was enough left from +the wreck of his father's property, to give him a sort of a living, and +he must needs go and settle it all upon his little sister Helen. + +_Mad. V._ And for what? To give her the education befitting her rank. + +_Des._ Fudge! + +_Mad. V._ Doctor Desmarets, your're very unfeeling. + +_Des._ Oh, of course, of course. I give him good advice, he rejects it. +I withdraw my sympathy, and then I'm unfeeling. If he can't manage +better with the little that's left him, egad! he may think himself lucky +that he can get his daily meals. + +_Mad. V._ Sir, he can't even--[_Aside._] Oh, if I dared-- + +_Des._ Can't even what? Send for his coupe, I suppose, or drink Chateau +margaux--terrible hardships, truly. When there's nothing else in a man's +pocket, he had better put his pride there, and button it up tight. + +_Mad. V._ Some day, sir, we shall find that he has taken poison, or cut +his throat. + +_Des._ Ah! and then there'll be nothing to dust. + +_Mad. V._ Monsieur, I repeat it--you're unfeeling. But I, who loved and +served his dear mother, whom he so much resembles-- + +_Des._ Not a bit--hasn't a look of her. The father, the father all over. + +_Mad. V._ Of course. So you always say, and everybody knows why. You +loved the poor Marchioness, offered her your hand, and she preferred the +Marquis. + +_Des._ Madame! + +_Mad. V._ I don't care. I _will_ speak my mind. And because she refused +you, you have no regard for her son. + +_Des._ Madame! + +_Mad. V._ But if he has his father's face, he has his mother's heart. + +_Des._ Much you know about it. + +_Mad. V._ And who _should_ know if I don't? Havn't I attended him since +he was an infant? + +_Des._ Well, and havn't _I_ attended him since he was an infant? + +_Mad. V._ Wasn't I with him during every sickness? + +_Des._ Wasn't I with him too? + +_Mad. V._ Didn't I nurse him? + +_Des._ Didn't I cure him? + +_Mad. V._ Wouldn't I follow him through the world? + +_Des._ Didn't I bring him _into_ it? + +_Mad. V._ Yes, and if things go on at this rate, he won't have much to +thank you for. + +_Des._ How do _you_ know? How do _you_ know, you foolish old woman you. + + _MANUEL appears._ + +_Man._ Heyday! the only two friends I have in the world at high words? +What can have caused this? + +_Mad. V._ My lord, the Doctor says you-- + +_Man._ Me! my dear Doctor, you never were quarrelling about so +unimportant a person, surely? + +_Des._ No matter for that. But I have some business with the Marquis, if +this very positive old lady will allow me the luxury of an interview +with him--a _private_ interview. Pray, ma'am, _may_ I trespass on your +indulgence? + +_Mad. V._ Truly, Doctor, your campaign in the Crimea has improved +neither your manners, or your beauty. [_Exit L. H._ + +_Des._ Confound her impudence! The attack on my manners I could forgive, +but my beauty--that's a tender point. + +_Man._ Ah, Doctor, you must pardon her brusque manner. If she's poor in +courtesy, she's rich in a rarer gift--fidelity. + +_Des._ Oh! hang her! let her go. And now to your affairs. Your father's +death occurred while I was with the army, in the Crimea. Rumors reached +me there, but I have never heard the full particulars. I would not +willingly revive a painful theme, but as an old friend-- + +_Man._ Nay, I shall be more satisfied when you know the facts. When you +left France you know what our position was, and what our style of +living. + +_Des._ All the luxuries that money could procure--a mansion in Paris, an +ancestral chateau, and a stable that could boast the best blood in +France. + +_Man._ Two months after the death of my dear mother, I went to Italy, by +my father's desire, and for several years I traveled through Europe, at +my pleasure. During this time his letters to me were affectionate, but +brief, and never expressed any desire for my return. Two months ago, on +arriving at Marseilles, I found several letters from him awaiting me, +each of them begging me to return home with all possible haste. + +_Des._ I remember, it was some time previous to that, that I heard his +name mentioned in connection with some unfortunate speculations in the +stocks. + +_Man._ I arrived at night. The ground was white with snow. As I passed +up the avenue--made still darker by the old trees which overshadowed +it--I could hear the frost shaken from the branches, seeming, as it fell +around me, like a warning of bitter tears to come. Hardly had I crossed +the threshold when my father's arms were around me. I could feel his +heart beating against my own, with a force almost painful. He led me to +a sofa, and placed himself directly in front of me, when, as if longing +to reveal something which yet he dared not name, he fixed his eyes on +mine with an expression of supplication, of agony, of shame, wondrous in +a man so haughty and so proud. It was enough! The wrong he had +committed, yet could not confess, I divined full well--God knows how +fully, how freely I forgave it! Suddenly, that look, which never quitted +me, became fixed, rigid. The pressure of his hand on mine became a grip +of iron. He arose--the eyes wandered, the hand relaxed, and he fell dead +at my feet! + +_Des._ [_After a pause._] Well, well, it is a sad history, for he left +utter ruin for your portion. But come, you must not look back. "Forward" +must be the watchword now. Mr. Faveau, your family lawyer, tells me that +the little that remained to you, after paying your father's debts, you +have appropriated to making a fine lady of your sister. + +_Man._ To educate her, doctor. + +_Des._ Well, well, same thing; so that you, yourself, have literally +nothing to speak of--hardly enough to give you bread. + +_Man._ Hardly. + +_Des._ Under these circumstances you will perhaps be disposed to the +favorable consideration of a proposal I have to make? + +_Man._ Name it, sir, for at present, I confess I have formed no plans of +my own. I was so little prepared to find myself quite a beggar. Were I +alone in the world, I would become a soldier. But my sister, that would +involve prolonged absence from her--perhaps an early death. My +darling--I cannot endure the thought of knowing her compelled to suffer +the privations, the labor, and the dangers of poverty. She is happy at +her school, and young enough to remain there for some years to come. If +I could but find some occupation by which, even were I obliged to impose +the severest restraints upon myself, it would be possible to save enough +for her marriage portion, I should be more than content. + +_Des._ An employment to suit a man of your rank-- + +_Man._ Oh, my dear Doctor--rank-- + +_Des._ Well, well, of your _education_, then, is not easily found. Now, +mark what I am going to say, and consider it well, before you come to a +hasty conclusion. There is, among my patients, a retired merchant, one +who has been able, by indefatigable industry in trade, to amass a very +handsome fortune. His daughter, an only a child, and of course, the +father's darling, has, by chance, become acquainted with the state of +your affairs. Now, I have reason to know, (being on very confidential +terms with them.) I say I have reason to know that this girl, ambitious, +handsome, rich, and accomplished, would be happy to share your title. I +have the father's consent, and only await the word from you to-- + +_Man._ Dr. Desmarets, my name is neither for sale, or to let. + +_Des._ Humph! Do you know, my lord, that you bear a remarkable +resemblance to your poor mother? + +_Man._ You must be mistaken, sir. I have always been told that I was +more like my father. + +_Des._ Not a bit! The mother, the mother, sir, in every feature. But, +bless me, it's near eleven o'clock and I have a most particular +appointment. As you decline considering the proposal I have made, we +must think of something else. Au revoir. [_Aside._] The mother--eyes, +nose, mouth. What the devil made that stupid old woman say he was like +his father? [_Exit C._ + +_Man._ He's a kind man, though a little eccentric, and apart from his +professional duty, seems actuated by a sincere desire to serve me, and +yet--and yet I could not bring myself to ask his charity. +Hunger--starvation--are not, then, mere empty words. Oh! if I do sin in +my pride, I am punished, for I suffer much. This is the second day +without food. Why, after all, I could go into any Restaurant and dine, +for I am well enough known. I could say I had forgotten my purse--have +done so without scruple in happier times, but _then_ I had the means to +pay, and now--no, no, my sister, not for life, not even for _thee_, will +I descend to lie and cheat. How weak I am; this comes too soon upon my +long sickness. If I could but sleep and so forget my agony. And there +are human creatures who suffer every day as I do now. My sister, my +little sister, I seem to see thy dear face looking down upon me, and +bidding me be comforted. [_Music._] Thou, at least, shall never suffer. +But for those who hear their cries of hunger repeated from the mouths of +starving little ones, well, well, God comfort them; I will not +re--Oh--holy--charity--for--those--who--my sister--my-- + + _MANUEL gradually falls asleep. MADAME VAUBERGER enters with a + Tray containing a dish or two with eatables, a plate, &c. She + watches MANUEL carefully while she deposits the Tray on the + chimney-piece and lays a cloth on the table. MANUEL awakes as she + goes back to the chimney-piece for tray._ + +_Man._ Eh--who's that? Ah, me! What are you doing, Madame? + +_Mad. V._ Did you not order dinner, my lord? + +_Man._ Certainly not. + +_Mad. V._ Why they told me-- + +_Man._ Then they were mistaken. It's for some of the other lodgers. + +_Mad. V._ But there's no other lodgers on this floor, and I really +cannot think what-- + +_Man._ At any rate, it is not for me. Take it away. + +_Mad. V._ [_After slowly taking off cloth._] My lord has probably +dined? + +_Man._ Probably. + +_Mad. V._ Dear me, dear me, what a pity. A good dinner spoiled, wasted. +Really, if you had not dined, my lord, it would so oblige me if-- + +_Man._ Will you go or not? [_She is dejectedly going, when MANUEL +calls._] Louise, I understand, and I thank you, but I am not well +to-day. I have no desire to eat. [_He turns away. MADAME VAUBERGER +quietly comes back and gently places the dinner on the table._ + +_Mad. V._ Ah, my Lord, if you knew how you wound my heart. Come now, you +shall pay me for the dinner--there--you shall put the money into my hand +the moment you have it. But indeed, indeed, if you were to give me a +hundred thousand francs, it would not cause me half the pleasure that I +should feel in seeing you eat my poor little dinner. Oh, surely, surely, +you can comprehend that. + +_Man._ I do, Louise, I do--and as I can't give you the hundred thousand +francs, why, I'll eat your dinner. + +_Mad. V._ No; _will_ you? + +_Man._ Louise, your hand. Don't be alarmed, I'm not going to put money +into it. [_She timidly gives her hand._ + +_Mad. V._ Oh! thank you, thank you, my lord, a thousand times. Now, I'll +leave you to your dinner. Ah! how good of you to accept my poor gift. +You have a noble heart. [_Exit C._ + +_Man._ And a monstrous appetite. My kind, faithful Louise. Well, well, +let us to dinner, since dinner there is. Come, come, here's life for +another day or so, at least, and that's something. + + _DOCTOR and MADAME VAUBERGER heard without._ + +_Des._ Nonsense, nonsense; I don't believe a word of it. + +_Mad. V._ I tell you sir, 'tis true; you might have seen it. + +_Des._ [_Entering._] But, confound it, woman--I _didn't_ see it, and it +was your business to tell me. + +_Mad. V._ It wasn't. + +_Des._ It was. + +_Man._ What's the matter now? + +_Des._ Matter enough! That stupid woman-- + +_Man._ Doctor, will you do me the pleasure to dine with me? + +_Des._ My lord, you have done wrong. + +_Man._ Indeed! + +_Des._ For you have wounded a friend. You have been cruel. + +_Man._ Cruel! + +_Des._ For you have made an old man blush. + +_Man._ I! + +_Des._ Yes, you! why was I left in ignorance? How could you, Manuel? why +didn't you. Damn it, sir? how dare you starve without letting me know? + +_Man._ Sir, I could not-- + +_Des._ My poor boy; there, there, eat your dinner; I've news for you. + +_Man._ News! + +_Des._ Yes; eat your dinner. + +_Man._ But I want to listen. + +_Des._ Well, you don't listen with your mouth, I suppose. Eat your +dinner. + +_Man._ But-- + +_Des._ Devil a word you'll get out of me, if you don't eat your dinner. + +_Man._ Well, well. [_Eats._ + +_Des._ Good! You remember I told you I had an appointment? + +_Man._ Yes. + +_Des._ Don't talk--eat! [_MANUEL eats._] That appointment concerned you. +[_MANUEL nods._] I think I've found employment for you. + +_Man._ Eh? [_Pauses with a bit on his fork._ + +_Des._ In with it. [_MANUEL puts it in his mouth._] Good! You are +aware, of course, that my practice and my residence is in the country. +I merely came to Paris on your account. [_MANUEL lets go his fork +to shake hands with the DOCTOR, who puts the fork into his hand +again._] Well, among the families with whom I am most intimate, +there is one, in particular, of great wealth and importance. The +name is Laroque. The family have had for some years past, a managing +man, a steward, who never was worth much. Indeed, the only +real service he has ever rendered them, he has just performed. + +_Man._ Ran away? + +_Des._ No, died. The moment I heard of this, I wrote to Madame Laroque, +asking his situation for a friend of mine. On leaving you, I went to the +post office, and found a letter awaiting me, with the full consent of +the family to my request. To be sure the position for a man of your +rank-- + +_Man._ My rank, under present circumstances, is a mockery. I shall, in +future, take simply my Christian name of Manuel. + +_Des._ I have only mentioned you in my letters as Monsieur Manuel, +anticipating that such would be your wish. You will have your own +apartments in a pavilion near the Chateau. Your salary will be so +regulated that you will be enabled to lay by a portion for your sister. +Now, the only question remaining is, will this suit you? + +_Man._ Admirably! My dear, kind friend, how shall I sufficiently thank +you? + +_Des._ Eat your dinner. + +_Man._ But am I fitted for the position? + +_Des._ Pretty well. You've learned one great requisite. + +_Man._ What's that? + +_Des._ Economy. As to the rest, the duties are simple enough. And now +I'll give you some notion of the people you are going to meet. There +are, in the Chateau, without counting visitors, five persons. First, +Monsieur Laroque, celebrated at the beginning of the present century as +a famous privateer Captain. Hence his large fortune. He is now a feeble +old man, mind and memory a good deal the worse for wear. Then there is +Madame Laroque, his daughter-in-law, a Creole-- + +_Man._ A Creole? + +_Des._ Yes, young gentleman, an _elderly_ Creole, with some +eccentricities to be sure, but a good heart. Thirdly, there is +Mademoiselle Marguerite, her daughter, much younger-- + +_Man._ That's singular. + +_Des._ Eat your dinner. She is proud, somewhat romantic, a little +thoughtless,-- + +_Man._ And her disposition? + +_Des._ Sweet. Fourthly, Madame Aubrey, a widow, a sort of second cousin, +old maidish, talky-- + +_Man._ Disposition? + +_Des._ Sour. Fifthly, Mademoiselle Helouin--Governess. Young, good +looking. + +_Man._ Disposition? + +_Des._ Doubtful. And that completes the catalogue. + +_Man._ Delightful! Two good dispositions out of five. The proportion is +enormous! + +_Des._ I'm glad you look at things so hopefully. When will you be ready +to accompany me to the Chateau? + +_Man._ To-morrow--to-day. + +_Des._ To-morrow will do. I shall be here for you early. [_Going._ + +_Man._ I shall be ready. + +_Des._ [_Runs against MADAME V. who is coming in._] Confound it, woman, +take care! + +_Mad. V._ Why, Doctor, you ran against me. + +_Des._ I didn't! + +_Mad. V._ You did! + +_Man._ What's the matter now? + +_Des._ Eat your dinner! + + +END OF TABLEAU I. + + + + +TABLEAU II. + + + _A Saloon with bay windows opening on a Terrace, from which steps + descend to lawn and grounds at back--Piano, R. U. E.--Books, + Papers, Vases, &c., &c._ + + _DE BEVANNES, DR. DESMARETS, MAD. LAROQUE, MARGUERITE, + MADEMOISELLE HELOUIN, MAD. AUBREY discovered. As Curtain rises, M. + DE BEVANNES is conversing with several young ladies on the terrace + at back. DESMARETS reading paper, L. C. MADAME LAROQUE wrapped in + furs, L. reading a book. MARGUERITE near her mother, at tapestry + work. MADAME AUBREY, R. C. knitting. MAD'LLE HELOUIN arranging + flowers in vase, R. Great talking and laughing from the party on + the terrace as the curtain rises._ + +_Bevannes._ Very well, very well, young ladies, if you insist upon it. +The ladies are determined on a waltz on the terrace. + +_Madame Laroque._ What! in the broiling sun? + +_Bev._ The roses do not fear the sun. Why should the lilies? + +_Ladies_ [_all courtesey._] Oh, how pretty. + +_Bev._ Yes, rather neat, I think. [_To MARGUERITE_] Mademoiselle, may I +hope for the honor? + +_Mar._ Thank you. Despite your pretty speech, I confess to a fear of +waltzing in the sun. But I'll play for you with pleasure. + + [_Goes towards Piano, R._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside to her._] Always cruel. [_To M'LLE HELOUIN_,] +Mademoiselle, may I request the pleasure? + +_Mlle Helouin._ Oh! certainly. + +_Bev._ [_Aside to her._] Ever kind. + + [_MARGUERITE plays--they waltz and gradually disappear._ + +_Mad. L._ Have you seen my new conservatory, Doctor? + +_Des._ No, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ Well, I must show it to you, if I can drag myself so far. + +_Des._ Drag? Why, good gracious! You're the picture of health this +morning--fresh as a rose. + +_Mad. L._ Fresh? Frozen. It's a curious fact, Doctor, that since I left +the Antilles, twenty years ago, I have never yet known what it was to +feel comfortably warm. + +_Des._ That accounts for your continued good looks. Consult your Cookery +Book, page 18. If you want to preserve things fresh, you must keep them +cold. And you, Madame, [_To MADAME AUBREY_] how do _you_ find yourself? + +_Madame Aubrey._ Very weak, Doctor. I ate a tolerable breakfast this +morning. + +_Des._ [_Aside._] You may say that. Three eggs and a broiled chicken. + +_Mad. A._ And I feel a fullness-- + +_Des._ [_Aside._] I should think so. + +_Mad. A._ In the head. + +_Des._ Ah! + +_Mad. A._ The fact is, Doctor, I am subject to such continual chagrin, +such cruel mortifications here. Dependent upon others for certain +luxuries which I can't get for myself. + +_Des._ Why not? + +_Mad. A._ Things are so dear. Ah, Doctor, nothing will soothe me but +death. + +_Des._ Well, _that's_ cheap! + +_Mad. A._ Brute! [_Aside._ + +_Mar._ [_at Piano._] Here they come again. + + _She plays. The waltzers appear on terrace. In the midst of this + dancing, MANUEL comes up steps, as if from lawn below. They + separate R. and L. and regard him with some astonishment. He has + a portfolio under his arm._ + +_Mar._ Well, why don't you go on? + +_Des._ [_Aside._] At last, [_aloud._] Madame Laroque, permit me to +present to you, M. Manuel, the new Steward. + + _MAD. LAROQUE rises and salutes MANUEL, at the same time ringing a + bell. A servant enters and goes to MANUEL, taking from him a small + portmanteau, which he carries off. MARGUERITE goes over to L. of + MAD. LAROQUE._ + +_Bev._ Rather a stylish looking steward! + +_Mad. L._ Why, Doctor, what does this mean? You promised a quiet, +simple, steady young man, and you bring me a fine gentleman like this. + + _As MANUEL comes down R. C., MAD'LLE HELOUIN sees him._ + +_Mlle. H._ [_Aside._] It is the Marquis de Champcey! + + [_Goes up to ladies._ + + MAD. AUBREY--MANUEL--DESMARETS--BEVANNES--MAD. LAROQUE--MADEMOISELLE + HELOUIN--MARGUERITE. + +_Mad. L._ Pardon, sir, you are Monsieur-- + +_Man._ Manuel, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ The new Steward? + +_Man._ Yes, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ You are quite sure? + +_Des._ [_Aside._] That's not bad. + +_Man._ Madame! + +_Bev._ The lady wishes to know whether you are yourself. + +_Man._ I have always been under that impression, sir. + + [_BEVANNES goes up._ + +_Des._ [_Aside._] The conversation is becoming brilliant--I'll leave +them to enjoy it. [_Exit at back--BEVANNES comes down to MARQUIS._ + +_Mad. L._ Sir, we are indebted to you for devoting your talents to our +service; we really require them, for we have the misfortune to be +immensely rich. + +_Mad. A._ Misfortune, dear? + +_Mad. L._ Yes, love; wealth is a heavy burthen. + +_Mad. A._ But a very pleasant one. + +_Mad. L._ You'd find it hard to bear, dear. + +_Mad. A._ I should like to _try_, darling. + +_Mad. L._ I feel that I was born for the devotion and self-sacrifice +entailed by poverty. Ah! my dear Bevannes, should I not have made an +excellent Sister of Charity? + +_Bev._ You are already the next thing to it, Madame? + +_Mad. L._ How so? + +_Bev._ [_Indicating MARGUERITE._] The mother of goodness. + +_Mar._ Oh, sir. + +_Mad. L._ But do you not agree with me? + +_Bev._ In what? + +_Mad. L._ That wealth is a heavy responsibility. + +_Bev._ Doubtless. But then you have the comfort of knowing that +there are always some devoted friends willing to relieve you. + +_Mad. L._ [_Rings._] But _my_ fortune is not mine to dispose of--for +my duty obliges me to preserve it for my child. + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +Alain, show this gentleman to his apartments--but first, you must be +introduced to my father-in-law. Ask if Monsieur Laroque can see the +gentleman. [_Exit ALAIN--MANUEL up stage._] And now, we will take a +stroll to the conservatory. What has become of that horrid doctor? +[_As she rises, her shawl falls off--MANUEL comes forward and assists +her._] Oh! thank you, sir. + + _Re-enter ALAIN._ + +_Alain._ Monsieur Laroque is coming down, Madame. [_Exit at back._ + +_Mad. L._ [_To MARGUERITE._] My dear, will you stay and introduce +Monsieur Manuel to your grandpapa? + +_Mar._ Certainly, if you wish it. + +_Mad. L._ Now, my dear Bevannes, your arm. + +_Bev._ [_Who has been talking to MARGUERITE._] Eh? + +_Mad. L._ You shall accompany us-- + +_Bev._ [_To MARGUERITE._] This is too bad. + + [_Gives arm to MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Mar._ Oh! Monsieur de Bevannes, how happy you ought to feel--arm in arm +with "the mother of goodness." + +_Bev._ I do feel happy--blessed. [_MADAME AUBREY takes his other arm._] +Doubly blessed. [_Exeunt BEVANNES, MADAME LAROQUE and MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mlle. H._ [_Aside._] So, so, my lord Marquis. Well, I will keep your +secret, _perhaps_. [_Exit--MARGUERITE seats herself as they go off._ + +_Mar._ [_After a pause._] Is this your first visit to Brittany, sir? + +_Man._ It is, Mademoiselle. + +_Mar._ It is an interesting country, I believe, to strangers. + +_Man._ Deeply interesting; though I travelled through it so rapidly, +that I had hardly time to appreciate its beauties. What I _did_ see, +however, charmed me. + +_Mar._ Ah! an admirer of the picturesque, I perceive, like our +governess. You two will get on very well together--you'll be excellent +companions. + +_Man._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mar._ Oh, yes; she adores trees, rocks, rivers, etcetera--things that, +for my own part, I don't think very interesting. + +_Man._ [_Smiling, and throwing himself carelessly into a chair._] Pray, +then, may I ask what you _do_ think interesting? + +_Mar._ [_Rising._] Excuse me, sir. + + [_Goes out with a slight and disdainful inclination._ + +_Man._ A timely reproof--for I was already forgetting my position. +[_ALAIN is crossing the stage._] My friend, a word with you. + +_Alain._ Certainly, sir. + +_Man._ Monsieur Laroque is very old, is he not? + +_Alain._ Oh, yes sir, _very_ old. + +_Man._ He was a seaman formerly, I believe? + +_Alain._ Yes sir, and a bold one too. Up in the picture gallery, there +are paintings of some of his most famous battles with the English. Ah! +he was a terrible man. Why, sir, if you'll believe me, when the fit is +on him, he will walk for hours alone in that gallery, in a sort of +dream, muttering to himself, and fancying that he is again on board his +ship in the midst of fire and slaughter, and between you and I, sir, +they _do_ say--but hush! he's coming with his granddaughter. [_Music._ + + _Enter M. LAROQUE, leaning on MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ This way, dear grandfather. So, so. How well and strong you are +to-day. [_ALAIN places chairs and exits._ + +_Laroque._ Always better and stronger when you are near me, my darling, +[_sits down._] Thank ye, thank ye. + +_Mar._ Let me present to you Mons. Manuel, our new steward. + + _LAROQUE, on seeing MANUEL, is transfixed and gazes with a sort of + terror at him._ + +_Lar._ No--no--no--it cannot be! + +_Mar._ What is this? + +_Lar._ But I tell you he is dead--dead-- + +_Mar._ Dearest grandfather! [_To_ MANUEL.] For heaven's sake, sir, speak +to him. + +_Man._ Really, Mademoiselle--I--I-- + +_Mar._ Speak, sir! Say something--anything-- + +_Man._ I am happy, sir, that I can devote my humble talents to your +service. + +_Lar._ But he is dead-- + +_Man._ Who? + +_Mar._ The last steward-- [_Signs to MANUEL to speak on._ + +_Man._ All the more happy, sir, as I have heard of your many brilliant +exploits, and had relatives who, like yourself, have often fought +against the English-- + +_Lar._ The English! Aye--aye--aye--they did it--they were the cause, but +they paid it all--paid dearly--dearly. + +_Man._ [_Approaching._] Permit me, sir, to-- + +_Lar._ Ah! No--no--no. He has blood upon him! See--see--see-- + +_Mar._ Grandfather, dear grandfather! Do not regard him, [_To MANUEL._] +he is often thus--his great age--and--and--oh, sir, pray retire; join my +mother, I beg of you. + +_Man._ Certainly, Mademoiselle. [_Aside._] A good beginning, truly. + + [_Exit._ + +_Mar._ Grandfather, dearest, what terrible thoughts are troubling you? +See, it is I, Marguerite, your child. + +_Lar._ Eh! my child! Ah, yes, true, my child, my own dear child; but +where is--are we alone? Who stood _there_ just now? + +_Mar._ That was our new steward, Monsieur Manuel. + +_Lar._ Manuel--Manuel--'tis very strange! I thought-- + +_Mar._ What, dear grandfather? + +_Lar._ Thought that--that-- + +_Mar._ Oh, you thought you recognized him? He is like some one you have +seen before? + +_Lar._ Yes--yes--yes--like some one I have seen before. But I am very +old, darling, and have seen so many faces in my time. Well, well, I +think I shall like him. Does he play picquet? + +_Mar._ Indeed I do not know-- + +_Lar._ I hope so, I hope so-- + + _Enter MAD. AUBREY._ + +_Mad. H._ Ah, my dear cousin, how do you find yourself now? They told me +you were ill, and almost frightened me to death. + +_Lar._ Thank ye, cousin, thank ye. It was only a passing weakness. + +_Mad. A._ Indeed, I rejoice to hear it, for I was fearful of some +sudden--Oh, why did you not send for me? 'Tis very unkind of you +to forget those who love you so. [_Weeps._ + +_Mar._ Grandpapa, there's one for you. [_Aside to him._ + +_Lar._ [_To MAD. AUBREY._] Well, well it's very kind of you to be so +fearful of _something sudden_, but you needn't--I've made my _will_. +[_Aside to MARGUERITE._] There's one for _her_! + +_Mad. A._ Come now, take my arm, a walk upon the terrace will do you so +much good. There, don't be afraid to lean on me. + +_Lar._ You're very kind, cousin. Thank ye, thank ye. [_Going._] +Marguerite, my darling, ask him if he plays picquet. + +_Mar._ I will. + +_Lar._ Umph! do you think he does? + +_Mar._ I have no doubt of it. + +_Lar._ [_As he goes out with_ MAD. AUBREY.] I hope so--I hope so--I +hope so! [_Exeunt LAROQUE and MAD. AUBREY._ + +_Mar._ My poor grandfather; spite of his failing memory, he sees through +the disinterestedness of our good cousin Aubrey. But those wild words, +his terror at the appearance of this young man, what could that mean? Or +had it any meaning? [_Sees MAD. LAROQUE and MANUEL coming in at back._] +My mother--and leaning on the arm of that person! + +_Mad. L._ Precisely my own opinion, sir, my impression exactly; this +is really charming; we agree upon every point. + +_Man._ I am flattered, Madame, to think such should be the case. + +_Bev._ [_Without._] 'Pon my honor, young ladies, I can't, I really +can't! + + _Enter BEVANNES, surrounded by ladies, exclaiming_, "You must, + Indeed!" + +_Bev._ Would you believe it, Madame? Those unconscionable ladies +insist on another waltz. + +_Mar._ Oh, indeed I cannot play any more--I must finish this to-day--It +is a promise-- + +_Man._ Pray do not let that inconvenience the ladies--I will play a +waltz with much pleasure. [_Touches Piano._ + +_Bev._ Sir! + +_Mar._ [_Haughtily._] Thank you, sir--it is not requisite. + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Forgetting again. [_Goes up Terrace._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Pretty cool! + +_Mar._ Very presuming of that steward. + +_Mad L._ Very polite of that _gentleman_. + +_Bev._ Highly disgusting to _this_ gentleman. + +_Mad. L._ Well, de Bevannes, you must find some other amusement for the +ladies. + +_Bev._ 'Gad, I'll soon do that. It's positively fatiguing to be in such +general request with them. They can't do without me for one moment--they +absolutely-- + + _Turns and perceives MANUEL, who, during the preceding dialogue, + has entered into conversation with the ladies, and has, by this + time, offered his arm to two of them--They all accompany him off._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Well, if I were given to strong sentiments, I should +wish that fellow at the deuce. As it is, I'll content myself with simply +damning his impudence. + +_Mad. L._ Do you know, my dear, that I don't feel quite easy in my mind +about that young man. + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Nor I, either. + +_Mar._ Why not, mamma? + +_Mad. L._ He is much too charming to make a good steward. + +_Mar._ Really; I do not perceive it. A person may be honest and +well-behaved, although he does happen to play on the piano. + +_Bev._ I don't know that; I flatter myself I have seen something of the +world, and experience has specially taught me to beware of the man who +plays the piano. + +_Mar._ Mamma, dear, will you hand me those scissors? + +_Mad. L._ Yes, my child. [_Perceives MANUEL'S portfolio._] Whose +drawing-book is this? + +_Mar._ That? oh! that is the steward's--I saw it in his hand when he +came in. + +_Mad. L._ I positively must take a peep. Oh! De Bevannes, look! +beautiful! What a charming accomplishment it is to draw well. + +_Mar._ Yes, for an engineer, or a builder-- + +_Bev._ Or an actor-- + +_Mar._ Why gracious! Monsieur de Bevannes, you have said a good thing. + +_Bev._ Have I? Allow me to apologize. + +_Mar._ Not at all; it's your _first_ offence. + +_Mad. L._ How beautifully finished these groups are. + +_Bev._ Positively, they're not so bad. + +_Mad. L._ Bad! my dear sir; they're exquisite. Look, for instance at +that horse--is it not perfection? + +_Bev._ It would be, doubtless--only it happens to be a cow. + +_Mad.L._ A cow? + +_Bev._ I think so; horses don't go about with two horns. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ Your pardon, ladies; but I believe I left my drawing-book-- + +_Mad. L._ Allow me to return it, sir--and to thank you for an accident +which has afforded us much pleasure. + +_Man._ Madame, you are too kind--so kind, indeed, that you have too long +refrained from permitting me to commence my duties. With your consent, I +will at once set about them. Your farm at Langeot, of which you spoke to +me, is not more, I think, than a mile or two from this. I will walk over +there this afternoon, and-- + +_Mad. L._ Walk! over such a miserable bad road as it is. Indeed, sir, I +could not allow it. + + _Enter MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mad. A._ Hush! Pray, _pray_, not so much noise. My dear cousin has +composed himself to sleep. + +_Bev._ Noise! it appears to me we were pretty quiet. + +_Mad. A._ Ah, sir, you might think so; but the least sound jars upon +his poor nerves. [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] I never saw such a devil of a woman as this is, to +cry. + +_Man._ But I assure you, Madame, that I would rather walk. If I pretend +to be your steward--why steward I must be, and not fine gentleman. + +_Mad. L._ [_To_ MARGUERITE.] My dear, would it be proper to allow M. +Manuel to walk? + +_Mar._ I believe it is usual for the steward to do so. However, I see no +reason why he should not ride, if he chooses. There are plenty of horses +in the stable. + +_Mad. A._ Ah! [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ What's the matter, Madame? + +_Mad. A._ Talking of riding always overcomes me. + +_Bev._ Excuse my peculiar mode of expression--but you appear to me to +pass your life in being perpetually overcome. + +_Mad. A._ Women are but fragile flowers. [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ They seem to require a deal of water. + +_Mad. A._ But horses, sir--talking of horses, puts me in mind of a pet +I had. + +_Mad. L._ A pet horse, dear? + +_Mad. A._ No, love, a donkey. Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Now she's watering the donkey. + +_Mad. A._ I had the dear little creature for two years. Just long enough +to--pray listen, sir. [_To MANUEL._ + +_Man._ I beg your pardon, Madame--I'm all attention--I heard. The +creature had two ears just long enough-- [_All laugh._ + +_Mad. A._ No, no; I said I had him for two years--just a sufficient time +to love him like a child--when he died--died, sir, of one of those +diseases peculiar to that class of quadruped. + +_Man._ Children? + +_Mad. A._ No, sir, Donkies! Dear me, it was, Umph! let me see, you must +know, sir, what I mean? [_To BEVANNES._ + +_Bev._ Measles? + +_Mad. A._ No, no, but no matter; He died-- + +_Bev._ Peace to his ashes. But as you were saying, Madame Laroque, there +are plenty of horses in the stable, and, really, all but ruined for want +of exercise. + + _Enter DR. DESMARETS._ + +_Des._ Yes, that's what you'll _all_ be, if you continue to lounge away +the days as you do. + +_Mad. L._ Ah, Doctor, we've missed you dreadfully. + +_Des._ What's the matter? anybody sick? + +_Bev._ You ought to have been here just now, Doctor; Madame Aubrey has +told the most touching tale-- + +_Des._ Of a donkey? I know, I've heard it often. + +_Bev._ But with regard to a horse for M. Manuel. There's Black Harry-- + +_Des._ Black Harry! Nobody can ride the brute! He's perfectly +untameable! Why, de Bevannes, you tried it yourself and couldn't. + +_Bev._ Ahem! Oh--ah--yes, but I had no spurs. + +_Des._ Spurs! Why, you couldn't even get upon his back! + +_Bev._ Eh--why--no--not exactly--[_Aside_] Confound him! + +_Man._ [_To BEVANNES_] And is Black Harry so very unmanageable? + +_Bev._ 'Pon my word I don't see it. He has an insuperable objection to +being mounted, but if you can get upon his back, and _being_ on his +back, can _keep_ there, why, of course, it's a great point in your +favor. + +_Man._ [_Smiling._] Certainly an important one. + +_Des._ If you except a partiality for biting, and ditto for kicking, +occasionally shying, and always prone to running away, he's a pleasant +beast. + +_Mar._ But such a beauty! I never saw a horse I should like so much to +ride, if he were but properly broken. + +_Man._ [_To MAD. LAROQUE_] Madame, have I your permission? + +_Mad. L._ Certainly. [_MANUEL rings._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] What's he at now? + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +_Man._ Tell one of the grooms to saddle Black Harry. + +_Alain._ Sir! + +_Des._ What? + +_Mad. L._ No--no-- + +_Man._ [_To_ ALAIN.] Did you hear my order? + +_Alain._ Yes, sir. [_Aside._] There'll be work for the Doctor to-day. + + [_Exit._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Good. + +_Man._ Pray do not fear, Madame, I have been used to restive horses. +I'll just make his acquaintance now, and if I can succeed in gaining a +small portion of his esteem, I will do myself the honor of riding him +daily until he is fit for your daughter's use. + +_Des._ [_To BEVANNES._] What the devil made you mention that confounded +animal? You don't like the new steward, eh? + +_Bev._ Not particularly. + +_Des._ He's good looking. + +_Bev._ Inconveniently. + +_Des._ And you want his neck broken? + +_Bev._ No. But I should like his nose put out of joint. + +_Mad. L._ I do not think I ought to permit this. + + [_Noise below the terrace._ + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +_Alain._ The horse is ready, sir. + +_Bev._ I will lend you a pair of my spurs. Alain, get my spurs as you go +down. + +_Alain._ Very well, sir. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. L._ Let me entreat you, sir. + +_Man._ I do assure you, there is nothing to fear. With your good wishes +I am certain of success. [_Exit down steps._ + +_Des._ [_On a terrace._] Why, here are all the servants and grooms. +Quite an assemblage. + + _Noise--Cries of_ "Hold him," "Quiet, sir," "Out of the way," + "Stand clear," &c.--_Enter LADIES and MLLE HELOUIN._ + +_Des._ A nice, quiet animal. [_Leans over._] Manuel, my dear boy. Sir! +if you break your leg, you may mend it yourself--I won't. + +_Bev._ [_On a sofa._] Doctor, report progress. [_Aside._] I'll bet a +thousand francs he doesn't even mount him. + +_Mar._ [_Who has overheard him._] I'll take that bet, sir. + +_Bev._ Eh? oh! as you please Mademoiselle. + +_Des._ By the Lord, he's up! [_Noise as before--then shout._ + +_Bev._ In the air? + +_Des._ No, in the saddle. [_Noise again._] Ah, he's off! + +_Bev._ Off the horse? + +_Des._ No; off on a gallop. [_Noise gets more distant._] Egad! they're +all scampering after him. What's he doing now? The ditch! take care! + +_Mad. L._ He'll be killed. + +_Mad. A._ Oh! oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Mar._ The horse can never do it. [_Shouts distant._ + +_Des._ Ah! he's-- + +_Bev._ In it? + +_Des._ No, _over_ it! Back again! [_Shouts distant._] Here he comes. +Egad! Black Harry's had enough of it. [_Shouts approach nearer._ + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] There's some mystery about this man. He has hardly +arrived, when all eyes seem turned to him. There certainly _is_ a +mystery. + +_Mlle H._ It will be cleared up, Mademoiselle. + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +_Mar._ What do you mean? + +_Mlle H._ Hush! + +_Alain._ [_To BEVANNES._] Your spurs, sir. + +_Bev._ Oh! I hope they assisted him. + +_Alain._ Didn't want 'em sir. + + _Great shouting below--The ladies, who have been witnessing the + ride, crowd upon the terrace, waving their handkerchiefs, and + appear surrounding and congratulating MANUEL as he comes on up + steps._ + +_Des._ [_To BEVANNES._] Somebody's nose is out of joint. + + +END TABLEAU II. + + +Lapse of Three Months. + + + + +TABLEAU III. + + + _The Park of the Chateau Laroque. ALAIN discovered arranging + Portfolio and Drawing materials._ + +_Alain._ Now really I do thank Madame for deputing me to wait more +especially on Monsieur Manuel. Steward or no steward, he's a perfect +gentleman; of that there can't be a doubt. What a pity it is that +Mademoiselle Marguerite and he don't like one another. When he says +white, she says black. When she goes one way, he goes another, yet +everybody else likes him. M'lle Helonin, our Governess, is absolutely in +love with him, and the wonderful influence he has obtained over old +Mons. Laroque, in this short time, is unaccountable. He has hardly been +here three months, and they say that all the money will be left +according to his advice--but that's going rather far, even for gossip. +Well, now, his drawing materials are all ready for him, and--here he is +to employ them. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ Alain, did you, by chance, pick up a half finished letter +anywhere in my room? + +_Alain._ No, sir. + +_Man._ Strange! I commenced it yesterday, and left it on my table, +intending to finish it this morning. I have searched the room +thoroughly, and it is nowhere to be found. + +_Alain._ Was it of much importance? + +_Man._ Merely inasmuch as it related to family and business matters. It +was for the Doctor, in case he should call when I was from home. +However, let it go. I'll write another when I return. [_Sits down and +prepares drawing materials._] Did not Mademoiselle Marguerite go out on +horseback yesterday alone? + +_Alain._ Yes, sir. + +_Man._ How was it you did not follow her, as usual? + +_Alain._ Oh, sir, she often goes without me. She's a capital rider, and +she says, to be alone sometimes, makes her feel more self-dependent, and +you know, sir, it won't do to contradict her, for though a charitable, +kind-hearted, young lady, she's rather wilful, and terribly proud. + +_Man._ Somewhat, perhaps, but her general manner appears to me more the +result of a sad and gloomy thoughtfulness, than mere pride. + +_Alain._ Ah, well, I suppose, sir, that, like most young ladies of her +age, she's a little bit in love. + +_Man._ In love? + +_Alain._ Yes, sir, Monsieur de Bevannes has been paying her great +attention for some time past, and it would be a grand match, for, after +Monsieur Laroque, he is the richest gentleman in the neighborhood, and +of excellent family. Ah, sir, what a pity it is _you_ are not rich. + +_Man._ Why so, Alain? + +_Alain._ Because--no matter. Have you any orders for me, sir? + +_Man._ Merely to have a good look for that letter when you go to my +room. + +_Alain._ I certainly will, sir. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Married--married--and to _him_. Well, and why not? Fool that I +am! Despite of all that should preserve and fence my heart as with a +wall of steel, from every impulse which could induce forgetfulness of my +bitter lot, and the one sacred object of my life, still will that coward +heart indulge in dreams--wild dreams of one day laying its most precious +offerings at the feet which would but spurn them. + + _Enter M'LLE HELOUIN, with basket._ + +But I will conquer yet, and if the struggle be hard, the victory will be +the more worthy. + +_Mlle H._ [_Aside._] He is alone. Hitherto, I have kept his secret well; +whether I will continue silent, depends upon himself. Courage, and the +poor hireling may yet be a Marchioness. [_Comes down to him._] Oh! +Monsieur Manuel, how beautiful that is! You see, while you have been +painting the woods, I have been gathering flowers. You know we have a +ball to-night. + +_Man._ Indeed? I was not aware of it. + +_Mlle H._ You positively don't seem to know or care about anything that +goes on. You are worse than indifferent, you are unsociable-- + +_Man._ Pardon me, not unsociable. But I know my station, and think it +better not to risk being reminded of it. + +_Mlle H._ [_After a pause._] Monsieur Manuel-- + +_Man._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mlle H._ Have I ever offended you? + +_Man._ No, indeed. + +_Mlle H._ I have been vain enough to think, at times, that you had some +friendly feeling for me. + +_Man._ And so I have. It is but natural. Our fortunes and positions are +the same, or nearly so. Both dependent on the caprices of those who +employ us, both alone, friendless. This should create sympathy at least, +if not friendship. + +_Mlle H._ You would not fear, then, to tell me of my faults? + +_Man._ Not if you desired it. + +_Mlle H._ Indeed I do desire it. + +_Mlle H._ But I only know of one. + +_Mlle H._ Pray name it. Nay, I shall receive it as a kindness. + +_Mlle H._ Well, then I think you admit and encourage somewhat too great +a familiarity with the family in whose employment we are. Your motives +may be, indeed, I'm sure they _are_, perfectly innocent; still they will +not be so considered, for in this world, the unfortunate are always +suspected. + +_Mlle H._ True, true. Spoken with a delicacy and candor all you own--I +thank you sincerely--and you will always continue as now--my true +friend? + +_Man._ I shall feel honored in the title. + +_Mlle H._ A true--a _dear_ friend? + +_Man._ [_Aside._] What is she driving at? + +_Mlle H._ A friend that loves me? + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Hallo! we're getting tender! + +_Mlle H._ A friend that loves me, ardently--do you hear? + +_Man._ Distinctly. + +_Mlle H._ And do you comprehend? + +_Man._ [_Half aside._] I'm afraid I do. + +_Mlle H._ Do you remember the old nursery rhyme-- + + "Pluck from the flower its leafy store-- + Love me little, love me more; + Hearts change owners, yet combine, + If mine is yours, and yours is mine." + +Come, now, let us see if you know which line should be yours. Shall I +commence? + +_Man._ If you please. + +_Mlle H._ + + "Pluck from the flower it's leafy store--[_A pause._] + Love me little, love me more; [_A pause._] + Hearts change owners, yet combine, + If---- + +_Man._ I respectfully decline." + +_Mlle H._ [_Throwing away the flower, which she has been picking to +pieces_] Then, sir-- + + _Sees BEVANNES, who enters._ + +Indeed, I could look at it all day, it is so beautiful--but I positively +must go. Monsieur, an revoir. [_Aside to MANUEL, as she goes._] You have +misunderstood me. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Have I? Then I must be a greater fool than I thought. + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] Pretty close quarters. What the deuce is that +governess after? And now for a little scientific pumping. [_Comes +down._] Ah, Monsieur Manuel, at your drawing, eh? Beautiful, beautiful, +indeed. + +_Man._ You flatter. + +_Bev._ Not at all--but to change the subject--by the by, do, I interrupt +your work? + +_Man._ Not in the least. + +_Bev._ Well, I was going to compliment you on the vast affection and +confidence you have inspired in poor old Laroque. + +_Man._ I believe he really has a kindly regard for me. + +_Bev._ Regard! my dear sir--you are absolutely wound around his heart. +His affection for his grand-daughter is very great, but no one has the +influence over him that you have. Now, in the strictest confidence, I'm +going to be very frank with you--and mark me well, you will not find it +to your disadvantage hereafter, if you are equally frank with _me_. + +_Man._ Really, I don't quite-- + +_Bev._ No; but you will presently. Without flattery, I think you-- + +_Man._ [_Referring to his picture._] Too green. + +_Bev._ Eh? Oh, exactly. I was about to say I think you, in every way, a +gentleman, therefore I don't hesitate to confide in you the fact that +yesterday, after dinner, I was just-- + +_Man._ [_To picture._] A little blue. + +_Bev._ Eh? Oh precisely. I was just on the point of proposing to Madame +Laroque for her daughter's hand, when it suddenly struck me that I +should possess a double claim, if I could, in the first place, influence +you enough in the young lady's favor to make it certain that the bulk of +Monsieur Laroque's property would be left to her. + +_Man._ Monsieur de Bevannes, you really very much over-rate-- + +_Bev._ Pray forgive me, but you hardly know yourself, the importance of +your good offices in this matter. I was going on to say that my marriage +with Marguerite is all but a settled affair, and, of course, it is my +duty to promote her interests in every possible way. I think you must +concede that? + +_Man._ Surely, but-- + +_Bev._Permit me. Now I wish to call to your mind that Madame Laroque, +though a worthy excellent woman, is one of very simple tastes and +habits, and, should too large a portion of the property be left to her, +it would tax and embarrass her to an extent that would be painful to my +feelings. I hope you appreciate my disinterestedness in the matter. + +_Man._ Oh, thoroughly! But I am still at a loss to imagine where my +interference would be either necessary or effectual. + +_Bev._ My dear friend-- + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Now _he's_ getting tender! + +_Bev._ One word from you as to the proper disposition of the money +would-- + +_Man._ Monsieur de Bevannes, let me end this at once, by telling you +that, in my opinion, any interference from me in the family affairs of +M. Laroque, would be a gross and unseemly abuse of his confidence. + +_Bev._ And this is the return you make for mine? + +_Man._ I did not solicit it, sir. + +_Bev._ Sir, permit me to take your hand. + +_Man._ Really-- + +_Bev._ You have stood the test, you are a noble fellow. You are-- + + _Enter MADAME AUBREY._ + +[_Aside._] There's Mrs. Waterspout, by jove! [_Aloud._] You seem puzzled +at my manner--I will take another opportunity of explaining. Suffice it +now to say you have _misunderstood_ me. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ My understanding seems to be terribly at fault to-day. + +_Mad. A._ [_Aside._] De Bevannes has left him. A good opportunity for +me. [_Comes down._] Beautiful! Exquisite indeed! + +_Man._ Madame-- + +_Mad. A._ Truly, each new picture you finish, is more lovely than the +last. Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Man._ What is the matter? + +_Mad. A._ The painting of that sheep's head-- + +_Man._ Yes, Madame-- + +_Mad. A._ Reminds me of my own portrait, taken in happier years, long +passed away. + +_Man._ But there are as happy ones in store for you, I hope. + +_Mad. A._ That will depend greatly upon you, Monsieur Manuel. + +_Man._ On _me_? + +_Mad. A._ Yes. Do you know, Monsieur Manuel, that I find my poor cousin +Laroque very much changed,-- + +_Man._ Indeed he is. + +_Mad. A._ And for the worse. In fact, he appears to me to be sinking +fast. + +_Man._ I'm afraid such is the case. + +_Mad. A._ How fond he is of you--you, it is well known, possess his +entire confidence. + +_Man._ I have been fortunate enough to make my poor services acceptable +to him. + +_Mad. A._ Now, just between ourselves, in the strictest confidence; do +you happen to be aware how the property will be left? + +_Man._ I do not, Madame. + +_Mad. A._ I am in a state of painful apprehension, lest the dear old +gentleman should over-estimate the desires and requirements of Madame +Laroque, and should, therefore, curtail any little legacy coming to +_me_, to make _her_ portion larger, which would be absolutely throwing +money away. I hope you understand my entire want of selfishness in this +matter? + +_Man._ I think I do. + +_Mad. A._ I was sure you would. Now, if you will use your power and +settle this affair to my advantage, all I can say is, so noble an action +would not go unrewarded. + +_Man._ I should hope not. + +_Mad. A._ You will find me _substantially_ grateful; you understand me? + +_Man._ Entirely. + +_Mad. A._ And I you? + +_Man._ Not quite; but in order that you may--I must tell you, +Madame--that when you offer me money to rob your benefactor, and mine, +you entirely and totally mistake the person you are addressing. + +_Mad. A._ Oh! oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Man._ It grieves me to be so abrupt, but-- + +_Mad. A._ It is not that, it is not that--but, to be thought capable of +such--to be accused--oh, sir! you have cruelly _misunderstood_ me. + + [_Exit, weeping._ + +_Man._ Another misunderstanding! That makes three friends I have secured +this morning. One or two more of the same sort, and my business here +will be soon finished. + + _Enter MLLE HELOUIN._ + +_Man._ Here comes the first misunderstanding again. + +_Mlle H._ M. Manuel, I thought you might like to know that the Doctor +has just arrived-- + +_Man._ Thank you--I'll go to him at once. [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ So eager to avoid me. Have a care, my lord Marquis--spite of +my insignificance, you may learn to rue the day you made me conscious of +it. + + _Enter BEVANNES._ + +And here is one on whom, if I don't very much mistake, I may rely for +aid. + +_Bev._ Upon my honor, Mademoiselle, you make quite a pretty picture--a +wood nymph's reverie; sweet subject, now, for the pencil of our friend, +the steward. + +_Mlle H._ Our friend, the steward, as you term him, has loftier subjects +for his pictures, either aerial or substantial. + +_Bev._ Really! + +_Mlle H._ And in the former quality his aspirations are sublime. + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle, you are an entertaining person, but I never guessed +a conundrum in my life. + +_Mlle H._ In plain terms, then, this romantic gentleman aspires to +create an interest in the heart of Marguerite. + +_Bev._ O come! I can stand a great deal, but that's rather _too_ good. + +_Mlle H._ But if I can prove it? + +_Bev._ The thing is too absurd. + +_Mlle H._ I have just parted from Madame Aubrey. + +_Bev._ I congratulate you. + +_Mlle H._ You jest, M. de Bevannes, but you may one day wake to find the +steward rather a dangerous person. Madame Aubrey has picked up a letter +of his, which was blown out of the window of his room, into the park. +Would you like to see it? + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle, I don't pretend to more virtue than my neighbors, +but if I can only get at facts by reading another man's letters, I'm +afraid I shall remain in ignorance. + +_Mlle H._ Marguerite is coming. Would you like to hear the communication +I have to make? + +_Bev._ The contents of the letter? + +_Mlle H._ No, but still a somewhat startling discovery. + +_Bev._ On the whole, I think I'll take my departure; for when there's +mischief to be concocted, and two women to brew it, it would be the +grossest vanity in any man to think he could improve the cookery. + + [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ Now if I can instill but one small drop of the poison called +suspicion, her proud, impetuous spirit, will complete the work itself. + + _Enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ Really, a very touching scene. The affection existing between the +good doctor and our steward is remarkable. If he had been M. Manuel's +father, he could hardly have been more cordially received. + +_Mlle H._ And I assure you that M. Manuel's father could not serve him +at this moment as the doctor can. + +_Mar._ My dear governess, you seem to know more of this young man than +you choose to reveal. I remember well your mysterious words to me the +day he first rode and conquered that horse. + +_Mlle H._ Perhaps I have been to blame for having remained silent so +long. But right or wrong, I have, until now, looked upon it as a duty to +keep this person's secret inviolate. + +_Mar._ His secret! + +_Mlle H._ Nor would I reveal it now, but that his base intentions are no +longer doubtful, and silence would be criminal. However, I must exact +your promise that the knowledge of it shall remain, for the present, +between ourselves. + +_Mar._ You have my word. Proceed. + +_Mlle H._ Four years ago, when you were in Paris--you are aware that I +was in the habit of visiting some of my old friends at my former school? + +_Mar._ I remember. + +_Mlle H._ Well, I often saw there this very M. Manuel. He visited the +school to see his little sister. His father was the well known Marquis +de Champcey. + +_Mar._ Ah! + +_Mlle H._ It was the talk of the school that the family were even then +much reduced. Now, they are totally ruined. The father is dead, and the +son has, through the good offices of a friend, been placed in a position +to regain the fortune he has lost. By what means I leave to your +penetration to discover. + +_Mar._ And is it so! [_A pause._] But, after all, the conduct of this +young man in no way justifies suspicion. I see him but seldom. In truth, +he actually avoids me. + +_Mlle H._ Of course he does. Reserve creates inquiry, inquiry, interest. +Oh, he has been well tutored. + +_Mar._ Enough. I thank you sincerely for the warning. But relieve your +mind of all anxiety; I shall know how to deal with this conscientious +gentleman, be assured. + +_Mlle H._ Indeed I feel the happier that I have at last confided this +fact to you. Ah, my child, to what snares, what treachery, what deceit, +does the possession of wealth expose the innocent. The thought of them +makes the poor governess almost contented with her humble lot. Come, +shall we walk towards the house? As we go, I shall be able to bring to +your recollection many circumstances, trifling in themselves, but which, +when considered in connection with what I have now told you, will serve +to bring full conviction to your mind. + + [_Exeunt MARGUERITE, leaving her basket of flowers on the bank._ + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ And now, having enjoyed the honor of a tete-a-tete with each of +those most interested in inquiring into matters upon which I'm strictly +determined to be silent, I presume I shall be permitted to continue my +work undisturbed. [_He has reseated himself at his drawing._ + + _MARGUERITE re-enters to find her basket. He rises. She merely + looks haughtily at him and, in carrying off the basket, lets a + rose fall on the ground._ + +_Man._ Really, her manner is more than haughty. 'Tis almost rude. [_He +picks up the flower._] I suppose now, she'd grudge me this poor flower, +yet who, though loving wildly and hopelessly as I do, would not think it +a fair prize? No, I will return it. I will not be guilty of one action +which shall give my heart the power to whisper "Thus should'st thou not +have done." + + _Re-enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] As I supposed. Have the kindness, sir, to return me +that flower. I am not in the habit of presenting boquets to--gentlemen. + +_Man._ Under which conviction, Mademoiselle, I was on the point of +bringing it to you. + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] Oh! for some way to make him feel how I despise him. +Do you know, M. Manuel, seeing so little of you, lately, I was under the +impression that death had deprived us of another steward-- + +_Man._ Highly flattered that you should condescend to be under any +impressions concerning so insignificant a person. + +_Mar._ I thought that so gifted a gentleman could hardly do anything +without a motive, and now I am informed that your absence is +attributable to the fact that you spend all your evenings with our noble +relative, Mademoiselle Delonnais. + +_Man._ I certainly do, and I deny myself that pleasure the less because +the lady happens to be old enough to be my grandmother. Her ancestors +reigned here formerly, and she--the last of a noble race--poor and +infirm, bears so well the dignity of her name, her age, and her +misfortunes, that I feel almost a filial affection for her. Besides, it +was your mother who first introduced me to her. + +_Mar._ Oh! no one means to reproach you; on the contrary, I dare say +Madame Laroque is obliged to you for your attention to the good old +lady. + +_Man._ You may remember, too, it was your wish-- + +_Mar._ Oh, if you want praise or admiration from me, you must be content +to wait. Though young, I have some experience of life. I know that there +are two motives to most human actions. I know that M'lle Delonnais has a +small independence. I know she has no heir, therefore a little extra +attention and-- + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, permit me to express for you my sincere pity. + +_Mar._ Sir! + +_Man._ Permit me to express for you my sincere pity. + +_Mar._ Your pity? + +_Man._ Yes, madame--if unjust suspicion be the bitter fruit of +experience in one so young. Nothing can merit more compassion than a +heart withered by misbelief, almost before it has begun to exist. + +_Mar._ Are you aware of what you say, sir? Are you aware to whom you +speak? + +_Man._ Entirely conscious, Mademoiselle, of both. + +_Mar._ [_Bitterly._] Perhaps you expect me to ask your pardon? + +_Man._ Assuredly I do. Wealth can afford to humble itself--poverty +cannot. + +_Mar._ [_As she is going, turns with a haughty humility._] Then, sir, +I ask your pardon. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Oh! my sister, my darling Rose! It needs all my love for thee +to make endurance of these insults less than cowardice! Coldness and +antipathy have increased to absolute hate and persecution. She is +determined to drive me hence. She will succeed at last, and then-- + + _Enter DOCTOR DESMARETS._ + +Ah! my dear Doctor! + +_Des._ I've eaten some lunch, had the dust brushed off, and now I'm +going to brush some more on. + +_Man._ How so? + +_Des._ Just got a letter--patient very sick--twenty miles ride there and +back. Pleasant life, a doctor's. + +_Man._ Where is it? + +_Des._ About four miles beyond the ruins of Elfin. + +_Man._ The ruins of Elfen. + +_Des._ Yes; but what's the matter with you? you look feverish and queer. +Anything wrong between you and the family? + +_Man._ Why, no. But-- + +_Des._ But--what? They tell me you're quite a great man here--old +Laroque can't live without you--angry because you don't spend all your +evenings at the Chateau--and the ladies, without exception, are crazy +about you. + +_Man._ Pardon me--there's one _important_ exception--Mlle Marguerite. + +_Des._ What the devil! You don't mean to tell me you can't agree with +_her_. + +_Man._ I do assure you--she loses no opportunity to humiliate, and even +openly insult me. Indeed, it has lately become insufferable--so that I +am going to tax your friendship once more, to seek for me some other +employment. + +_Des._ Now don't be hasty, my dear boy. By Jove! here she comes--no she +don't--she perceives you--and there she goes. She don't escape _me_ +though. + +_Man._ Nay, my dear doctor, I beg of you-- + +_Des._ Stuff! nonsense! I'll just give her a piece of my mind. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ I very much fear the Doctor's zeal in my cause will lead him into +trouble with this proud girl--but I am resolved. Here, I will not, _can_ +not remain. Rose, my darling, thy marriage dowry must be sought and won +elsewhere. I will at once visit my poor old friend, and say farewell. +Marguerite I will see no more--no faltering now--a good resolve once +taken, action should be speedy. To-night the horse I have almost learned +to love, because she would one day ride him, shall bear me for the last +time. [_Exit._ + + _The DOCTOR and MARGUERITE are heard outside--then enter._ + +_Des._ Can't help it, if I _do_ offend you. The young man is my friend-- + +_Mar._ Doctor-- + +_Des._ My friend, Mademoiselle--and I never desert a friend, even though +he has incurred the displeasure of your proud ladyship. + +_Mar._ Do you not regard _me_ as a friend? + +_Des._ I should rather think so; known you since you were a baby; +disposition altered since then-- + +_Mar._ For the better? + +_Des._ Don't know that. When you are angry now it's a storm--_then_ it +was only a squall. + +_Mar._ This is no jesting matter. Doctor Desmarets, I have always +considered you a man of honor. + +_Des._ Much obliged to you. I've been under the same impression myself. + +_Mar._ What then is the meaning of this plot! + +_Des._ Plot! + +_Mar._ This young man, this steward you have so kindly supplied us with, +he has been recognized. He is known! + +_Des._ Well, suppose he is; what of it? + +_Mar._ Why does he bear a false name? + +_Des._ He don't. + +_Mar._ Doctor-- + +_Des._ Manuel is his Christian name. I suppose he may make what use of +it he pleases. Whether he puts it first or last, is nobody's business +but his own. + +_Mar._ His motive? + +_Des._ His motive, Mademoiselle, is worthy of himself, and proceeds from +a sense of honest pride, which many would do well to imitate. He is a +gentleman, and a man of honor, reduced to sudden poverty, and compelled +to labor for a livelihood. Now, I'm not acute enough to perceive any +_plot_ in all this. But I _do_ perceive that you are doing your best to +drive him from this place. + +_Mar._ Doctor, your word is enough. I believe you, and I thank you. Oh, +it is so sad to look only on the gloomy side of things. I thank you _so_ +much, and never liked you half so well as I do to-day. + + [_While speaking this speech, she searches for the rose she has + taken from MANUEL, and, on finding it, places it in her bosom._ + +_Des._ No? + +_Mar._ No! + +_Des._ What a pity-- + +_Mar._ Eh? + +_Des._ That I can't stay to luxuriate in your friendship. I have only +time to say good-bye to your mother, then I must be off. + +_Mar._ Well, now, I'll tell you what I'll do. To prove I'm in earnest, +I'm going to take my horse, and bear you company part of the way. + +_Des._ My child, it will be dark before I get there. + +_Mar._ But there'll be a lovely moon, and I want to see the ruined tower +of Elfen by moonlight. So say no more, for I'm resolved. + +_Des._ Well, my experience, professional and personal, has taught me +that when a woman is determined-- + + _Enter MADAME LAROQUE--DE BEVANNES._ + +_Mad. L._ You are right, my dear Bevannes, I confess it. + +_Bev._ Oh, there's no doubt he is, absolute perfection, the _rara avis_, +so long sought for, found at last. + +_Mad. L._ Laugh as you please, I positively adore him. + +_Bev._ You'll ask me to the wedding, I hope? + +_Mad. L._ Go along with you. Well, my child, have you persuaded that +obstinate man to stay till morning? + +_Des._ That obstinate man regrets he must go within the hour. + +_Alain._ [_without._] Go away, you troublesome little thing! + + _Enter CHRISTINE and ALAIN._ + +_Mad. L._ What's the matter? + +_Alain._ This little girl will insist on searching the park for some +gentleman she wishes to see, belonging to the Chateau. + +_Mad. L._ That will do--leave her here. [_Exit ALAIN._ + +_Bev._ Now small specimen of rustic humanity, what do you want? + +_Mad. L._ What is your name, little one? + +_Christine._ Christine, Madame. My grandfather-- + +_Bev._ Never mind your pedigree--which of us do you want? + +_Mad. L._ Be quiet. Well my dear? + +_Chris._ My grandfather is very old and blind, if you please, +and--and--oh! I want to see the _nice_, _good_ gentleman. + +_Des._ Bevannes, she don't want _you_. + +_Chris._ The _handsome_ gentleman. + +_Bev._ Doctor, she don't want _you_. + +_Chris._ Please, Madame, may I tell you what happened yesterday? + +_Mad. L._ Yes, child, go on. + +_Chris._ My grandfather has a dog that leads him about--poor old +Spot--such a pet-- + + _Enter MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mad. A._ A pet! are you talking of a pet? + +_Bev._ Yes; but don't weep, Madame--it isn't a donkey. Go on, little +girl. + +_Chris._ Well, yesterday, we three--grandfather, Spot and I, were +sitting near the stream, in the village, by the mill-dam, when some +wicked boys--oh! such dreadful wicked boys, came by. They seized poor +Spot and threw him into the water. He was nearly being crushed by the +mill-wheel, when a dear, kind gentleman, who was riding by on a +beautiful black horse-- + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +Oh! there he is. Oh, sir! I'm so glad I've found you. + +_Man._ [_Aside._] Oh, confound it! what brings you here, you little +pest? + +_Chris._ Don't be angry, sir--you rode away so fast, yesterday, I had no +time to thank you, and I wish to do so now. + +_Bev._ Beautiful subject for a nautical drama: "The Desperate Diver; or, +The Drowning Dog of the Dam." + +_Man._ Ridiculous enough, I admit. However, I did jump into the water +after poor Spot. + +_Chris._ You did, you did, indeed! Ah! sir, [_to_ BEVANNES,] you +laugh--but perhaps if you were old and blind, you wouldn't think it such +a joke. + +_Bev._ I assure you, my dear, it would have given me infinite pleasure +to have saved your dog. + +_Des._ You save a dog? Why you can't swim. [_All laugh._ + +_Bev._ Here are ten francs, child, go away. + +_Chris._ And now, sir, [_To_ MANUEL.] I'll go directly, if you'll give +me just one kiss. + +_Man._ [_Angrily._] Upon my word-- + +_Mad. L._ Now I insist upon it you do. Poor little thing, I'm sure she +deserves it. + +_Man._ [_Laughing._] Well, then, [_Kisses her._] now, go home, there's +a dear. + +_Chris._ Oh! I will, I will, good-bye. + +_Mad. L._ Well, haven't you got one for me? + +_Chris._ Oh, dear, yes, Madame. [_Kisses MAD. L._ + +_Bev._ You're forgetting your money. + +_Chris._ Oh, dear, no, sir. [_Takes it and curtsies._ + +_Bev._ Now a kiss for me? + +_Chris._ Oh, dear, no, sir! + + [_Curtsies and exits. All laugh except MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Mad. A._ Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ Weeping for my disappointment, Madame? + +_Mad. A._ No--sir--no. + +_Mad. L._ A most interesting little girl. + +_Mad. A._ That's it, that's it. She reminds me of a circumstance that +occurred in my youth, before my marriage. You must know I had a little-- + +_Des._ Hallo! [_Takes MARGUERITE hastily up stage._ + +_Bev._ Ahem! [_Takes MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Mad. A._ Eh! What! [_Calling after them as they go off._] You don't +understand me! A little _niece_--Oh! this is too dreadful! + + [_Sinks into chair._ + + +END OF TABLEAU III. + + + + +TABLEAU IV. + + + _Interior of a room in the Tower of Elfen. A large breach in the + wall at back, through which the distant country is dimly seen. + Night coming on._ + + _YVONNET discovered upon the balcony, listening. Singing in the + distance. When the singing is done, Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ What are you at there, my good fellow? + +_Yvonnet._ [_Startled._] I was listening to the singing, sir. + +_Man._ Who are the singers? + +_Yvon._ The reapers, sir, returning home. + +_Man._ You, I suppose, are the keeper of these ruins? + +_Yvon._ Yes, sir. I am the shepherd that minds the sheep, and shows the +tower to strangers. [_Shows key._ + +_Man._ [_Giving money._] There. + +_Yvon._ Thank you, sir. + +_Man._ Are you never afraid here all alone? + +_Yvon._ Afraid! No, indeed. That is, not in the day-time, but at night-- + +_Man._ Ah, ah, then you have fairies, or spirits, or ghosts here, eh! + +_Yvon._ [_Disdainfully._] Sir, do you take me for a superstitious fool! +It's all very well for people who don't know any better, but I-- + +_Man._ Then you do not believe in anything of the kind? + +_Yvon._ I should think not, indeed. But if you come to talk about the +white lady, that's quite another matter. + +_Man._ Oh! so there's a white lady, is there? + +_Yvon._ Yes, sir, there is indeed, and she walks about on the top of +that tower over there, and where there are no stairs either. But she +is never seen in the day, only in the night, when it is quite dark. + +_Man._ [_Laughing._] Yes, she is seen when it is too dark to see. + +_Yvon._ [_Looking out._] Ah! Confound those sheep, at their old tricks +again. [_Shouts._] Hi! Hi! I don't believe there's such a troublesome +set of brutes in the whole country, always climbing where they have no +business. Hi! Hi! [_Throws a stone._ + +_Man._ Why don't you jump down there? + +_Yvon._ Try it yourself, if you want to break your neck, my fine +gentleman. Are you going to stay long? It is getting late. + +_Man._ Don't be uneasy, I shall go presently. + +_Yvon._ The sooner the better. I ain't a coward, but I feel more +comfortable away from here. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ This is a fine old ruin. How is it that I have never found it out +before? I must bring my sketch-book here some day. Alas! I forgot that +for me there is no future here, to-morrow--'Tis but a sad farewell that +I must bid the scenes I had begun to love so well. Wretched heart! Is +it, then, because reason, honor, everything, forbids my loving her +that--Ah! were I not the guardian of an existence more precious than my +own, I should long ago have fled this torture! [_Goes up._ + + _Enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ This is most fortunate, when the moon rises the view will be +charming. [_Suddenly sees MANUEL._] Sir, I beg your pardon. I was not +aware, indeed-- [_Going._ + +_Man._ Excuse me, Mademoiselle, I am not at home here--permit _me_ to +retire. [_Going._ + +_Mar._ [_Crossing._] Stay, sir. As we happen to be alone, will you +answer me fully and frankly, one question. They tell me my manner +towards you is abrupt, unkind, even at times, offensive. + +_Man._ I have never complained. + +_Mar._ But you would leave us? + +_Man._ Mademoiselle. + +_Mar._ And they say that I am the cause. Your departure, sir, would +occasion my mother sincere sorrow, which I am anxious to spare her, if +it be in my power; but I am at a loss to know what explanation to make +you--what am I to say? that the language which has offended you, is not +always sincere--that perhaps, after all, I myself can appreciate joys +and pleasures more exalted than those which the mere possession of +wealth can give. Well, it is possible--but am I so much to blame, that I +use my powers to stifle thoughts which are forbidden me. + +_Man._ Forbidden? + +_Mar._ Yes, forbidden. It may, perhaps, appear like affectation, to +complain of a destiny which so many envy--but, like my mother, I believe +that were I less rich, I should be the more happy. You have reproached +me with my continual distrust. But in whom _can_ I trust? I, who from my +infancy have been surrounded--do I not know it too well--but by false +friends, grasping relatives, and suspicious suitors! Do you suppose that +I am weak and foolish enough to attribute to my own attractions, the +care, the solicitude, with which so many of these parasites surround me; +and even if a pure and noble heart, (should such a thing exist in this +world,) were capable of seeking and loving me for what I _am_--not for +what I _have_--I should never know it--[_with meaning_]--for I should +never dare the risk! And this is why I shun, repulse, almost hate, all +that is beautiful and good--all that speaks to me of that heaven, which +is, alas! forbidden me. [_The reapers are again heard singing in the +distance--with emotion and in an undertone._] What is that? + + [_Listens--lets her head fall upon her hands, and weeps._ + +_Man._ Tears! + +_Mar._ [_With transport._] Well, yes, I can weep. Enough--I did not +intend, sir, to burthen you with so much of my confidence; but now you +know me better. You see I have a heart, and if ever I have wounded +yours, I hope you will forgive me. [_Gives her hand, which he kisses, +respectfully._] See; the pledge of our friendship shall be this flower, +which I rudely demanded from you this morning. [_Gives rose._] Now let +us go, [_returning_,] and never let this subject be revived between us. + +_Man._ Never! + +_Mar._ But before I go, I must see the view from yonder height. + +_Man._ I beg you will not venture--do not run such a risk. + +_Mar._ Oh! I am not afraid. + +_Man._ At least take my hand, then. + + [_She mounts the platform outside of the window. It begins to grow + dark._ + +_Mar._ The height is fearful, but the view is very beautiful. I could +gaze on it forever. + + _Enter YVONNET. He looks round without seeing them._ + +_Yvon._ Ah! he's gone at last. I shan't be long in following him; I +don't like this place. [_Exit, locking door after him._ + + [_Night comes on, the moon lighting the scene beyond. MARGUERITE + comes down from tower, aided by MANUEL._ + +_Mar._ There comes the night, in good earnest; fortunately, the moon +will help us to regain our horses. Come, sir, let us hasten. + + [_Low music from orchestra. MANUEL tries to open door._ + +_Man._ That stupid fellow has fastened it while we were upon the tower. + +_Mar._ [_Anxiously._] Call to him, he cannot be far off. + +_Man._ [_Upon platform._] Hallo! Come back, will you? Now he sees me, +but he only runs the faster--takes me for the white lady, I suppose. +Confound the fool! + +_Mar._ [_Looking about._] No other means of egress! What is to be +done?--they will die with anxiety at home. + +_Man._ Stay! I can descend by those trees, perhaps-- + +_Mar._ 'Tis useless--there is an inclosed court-yard below. + +_Man._ It is in vain--this door resists all my efforts. I know not what +to do. [_While MARGUERITE has gone upon platform._ + +_Mar._ Great Heaven! I see it all. [_To MANUEL, with restrained +passion._] Marquis de Champcey! + +_Man._ [_Turns quickly._] My name! + +_Mar._ [_Slowly._] You boast a long ancestral descent. Pray tell me, +sir, are you the first _coward_ of your name? + +_Man._ Madame! + +_Mar._ [_Violently._] It is you--_you_ who have bribed this boy to +imprison us here! + +_Man._ Merciful Heavens! + +_Mar._ Ah, I comprehend your purpose. I understand it all. To-morrow +this _accident_ will be noised abroad; the ever-ready tongue of scandal +will be busy with my name, a name which, if less ancient than your own, +is full as stainless, and you trust to my despair to make me yours! But +this vile trick, which crowns all your base maneuvering, I will thwart. +I tell you, sir, that I would incur the world's contempt, the cloister, +anything--even death itself--rather than the disgrace, the ignominy, the +shame, of uniting my life to yours! + +_Man._ [_Calmly._] I entreat you to be calm. Call reason to your aid. I +understand and respect your distress, but let not your anxiety prompt +you to do me wrong. Consider! How could I have prepared such a snare, +and even were it in my power, how have I ever given you the right to +think me capable of such baseness? + +_Mar._ [_Passing L._] All that I know of you gives me that right. For +what purpose do you enter our house, under a false name, in a false +character? We were happy before you came. You have brought us sorrow, +misery, which we dreamed not of. To attain your object, to repair the +breach in your fortune, you have usurped our confidence, sported with +our purest and most holy sentiments. Have I not seen all this? And when +you now pledge to me your honor--that honor which was too poor and weak +to save you from these unworthy actions--have I not reason to doubt? +Have I not the right to scorn and disbelieve? + +_Man._ Marguerite, listen to me! I love you, it is true, and never did +love more ardent, more disinterested, more holy, live in the heart of +man. But here, with the eyes of Heaven upon us, I swear that, if I +outlive this night, all beloved as you are, were you upon your knees at +my feet, never would I accept a fortune at your hand. Never! My heart is +yours, yours to break, to crush, to trample in the dust, if it so please +you, but my honor, Madame, is my own and that I will preserve. And now +pray--pray for a miracle. It is time. [_Runs to the tower._ + +_Mar._ What would you do? God of mercy! You shall not--you shall not! + +_Man._ Think, Marguerite, your name! + +_Mar._ You shall not! Forgive me! _If you love me_, forget what I have +said, for pity's sake, for mine! + +_Man._ [_Disengaging himself._] Loose your hold. + + [_He repulses her, and leaps upon tower. Singing heard afar off._ + +_Mar._ [_Falling on her knees._] Manuel! Manuel! Madman! hear me. It is +death! + +_Man._ It is honor! [_Throws himself down._ + + [_MARGUERITE with a shriek, falls insensible._ + + +END OF TABLEAU IV. + + + + +TABLEAU V. + + + _Handsomely furnished Room in Chateau Laroque--Doors R. and L., + and U.--Candles lit._ + + _DE BEVANNES, MAD. LAROQUE, MAD. AUBREY, ALAIN, MLLE HELOUIN + discovered--MAD. LAROQUE is walking about in much agitation._ + + +_Mad. L._ [_To ALAIN._] You say she went out on horseback? + +_Alain._ Yes, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ Did she say at what hour she would be back. + +_Alain._ No, Madame. + +_Bev._ Did she not tell you she would be early in the ball-room this +evening? + +_Mad. L._ She did; and that only makes me the more apprehensive. This +anxiety is torture. + +_Bev._ Be assured, Madame, she is safe. You know she is often out late +on fine evenings. + +_Mad. L._ But never after dark. Can nobody even tell which way she went? + +_Mlle H._ There is one person, I think, might give us some information. + +_Mad. L._ Oh! who? Why did you not say so before? + +_Mlle H._ I have no doubt M. Manuel could enlighten us, if he chose. + +_Mad. L._ Monsieur Manuel! what should _he_ know about it? + +_Bev._ Exactly. I do not clearly perceive why the steward must be better +informed of the young lady's movements, than her mother. + +_Mlle H._ Nor I. Yet I think it would be worth while to ask him. + +_Mad. L._ Alain, ask Monsieur Manuel, if he will be so good as to come +to me, at once. + +_Alain._ Monsieur Manuel has also gone out on horseback, Madame, and has +not yet returned. + +_Mlle H._ Ahem! + +_Mad. A._ Ah, ha! + +_Bev._ And pray, at what time did he go out? + +_Alain._ Just before Mademoiselle Marguerite, sir. [_A pause._ + +_Mad. L._ You are all marvellously silent! What do you imagine? what do +you infer? Speak, if you would not drive me mad! Still silent! [_To MLLE +HELOUIN._] Mademoiselle, your looks convey some hidden meaning. [_To +MAD. AUBREY._] Cousin. + +_Mad. A._ Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Mad. L._ What's the use of that, Madame? speak out. I always knew you +were a fool--don't make me think you are a complete idiot! Bevannes, +_what_ does all this mean? + +_Bev._ Alain. + +_Alain._ Sir? + +_Bev._ Did Mademoiselle go out alone? + +_Alain._ No, sir; with the Doctor. + +_Mad. L._ Ah! then all is well. + +_Bev._ Humph! + +_Mad. L._ Bevannes, what _do_ you mean? will you explain or not? + +_Mlle H._ Madame, your generous nature and partiality for the steward, +has somewhat blinded your judgment; those who love you have been more +watchful. This Monsieur Manuel is-- + + _Enter MANUEL--His dress disordered--His face pale, with slight + marks of blood upon his forehead._ + +_Man._ Here, Madame, you did me the honor to send for me. + +_Mlle H._ You have just returned, sir? + +_Man._ This moment--I met Alain on the stair. + +_Mad. L._ But you are hurt, Monsieur--there's blood upon your forehead. + +_Man._ Nothing of importance, I assure you; the horse fell with me, and +got a few scratches--nothing more--a little cold water will set all to +right. + +_Mad. L._ This seems to be a night of misfortunes. + +_Mad. A._ [_Sighs._] Ah! + +_Mad. L._ _Do_ be quiet. + +_Man._ What has happened, Madame? + +_Mad. L._ Marguerite went out on horseback just after you, and has not +yet returned. + +_Man._ Oh, don't be alarmed--I met her. + +_Mad. L._ Oh! when? where? + +_Man._ About six o'clock, on the road to Elfen--she told me she was +going on to look at the ruins. + +_Mad. L._ Good heavens! the ruins are in the midst of the forest, and +the roads dreadful! She must have lost her way! Alain! + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +Order the carriage. [_Exit ALAIN._] I will send directly--I will go +myself. + +_Man._ You may rest certain, Madame, that you will find her. In the +meantime, I will get rid of the evidences of my trifling fall. Be +assured your daughter is quite safe. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. L._ Come, Bevannes, order your horse, and ride by the carriage. + +_Bev._ Thank you, but, with your permission, I'll ride _in_ the +carriage. The road _is_ a bad one, and if one horse stumbles, another +may. + +_Mad. L._ Well, well, any way you please, only come. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. A._ Ah, poor girl, poor girl-- [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ Don't be so distressed, Madame. It's not your little niece. + +_Mad. A._ Monsieur de Bevannes, you are a brute! + +_Bev._ So is a donkey, Madame, and yet one died rich in your affection. +Ah, if I could only have inherited a portion of his wealth. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. A._ I wonder if he means that. He never said anything so civil +before. I've a great mind to-- [_Going._ + +_Mlle H._ Stay--that letter of the steward's which you found in the +park-- + +_Mad. A._ Well? + +_Mlle H._ Have you got it with you? + +_Mad. A._ Of course. + +_Mlle H._ Give it to me. + +_Mad. A._ To _you_! Why? + +_Mlle H._ No matter. Suffice it that my hopes, and yours--the very life +of all our plans--depend on the use I shall make of that letter. + +_Mad. A._ Oh, well, take it. [_Gives letter._] I'm sure you'll make much +better use of it than I can. [_Aside._] Upon my life I'll go and ask +Bevannes what he meant by that. [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ Why, why did nature endow me with a heart to suffer, an +intellect to comprehend? Had I been born a fool, like that woman, this +dependent state would have brought with it calm endurance, if not +happiness. But, as I _am_, it is misery. How easy is bounty to the rich. +How natural is virtue to the happy. He heard my words as he came +in--must have divined their purport. Well, well, if I have taught him to +despise me, he shall learn to fear me, too. He dared to read me a +lesson, and I hate him for it, even though I profit by it. If I must +fall, he shall share the ruin he has caused. + + _Enter MARGUERITE._ + +_Mar._ Helouin! + +_Mlle H._ Marguerite! + +_Mar._ Hush! To prevent remark, I came by the small stairway, through +the conservatory. My mother has been anxious? + +_Mlle H._ Much alarmed. She has gone to seek you. + +_Mar._ I know it. I have sent Alain to overtake and bring her back. +Before she comes, I have a word to say to you. It is of Monsieur Manuel. +I have strong reason to believe that you have most strangely misjudged +his character and his intentions. + +_Mlle H._ I know him to be the Marquis de Champcey. + +_Mar._ And _I_ know that if his birth be noble, his heart is no less so. + +_Mlle H._ It is very recently, then, that you have made the discovery. + +_Mar._ True. Now mark. You have seen the ruins of Elfen? + +_Mlle H._ I have. I was once there with a party, and was the only woman +who dared ascend the tower. + +_Mar._ You know the danger, then. Well, I care not now if all the world +should hear it. We were alone. By accident, imprisoned in those ruins. I +rashly, blindly, _falsely_ accused him, and he, to save my honor and his +own, plunged from that tower in to the gulf beneath! + +_Mlle H._ But he escaped. + +_Mar._ I know it and have thanked God for the miracle. I had not +strength to implore. + +_Mlle H._ Upon my word, this is an extraordinary man. + +_Mar._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mlle H._ And understands so well how to turn his talents to the best +account. Why, poor child, and you don't see through all this? Yesterday +it was a swimming match, producing an admirably planned and effectual +scene. To-night, it is an exhibition of daring activity. The gentleman +has been brilliantly educated. + +_Mar._ You evidently hate him. + +_Mlle H._ And why? On my own account? No! What is he to _me_? But when I +see that he dares to bring his plots and machinations here, and intends +you for their victim, I am free to confess, I _do_ despise and hate +him! + +_Mar._ These are grave accusations. What proof have you to support them? + +_Mlle H._ Ah, you suspect me. For the sake of this stranger, you doubt +the truth of one you have known for years? Well, be it so--I will give +you proof, since you demand it. Do you know his handwriting? + +_Mar._ I do. I have had to look over many papers he has copied for my +mother. + +_Mlle H._ Look at that letter. Now listen: [_Reads._] "_My dear +Desmarets: I follow your instructions exactly. But will they avail to +win for me the bright reward for all I have to endure. I do not think +the dowry wilt be as large as I had hoped._-- + +_Mar._ Great Heavens! + +_Mlle H._ "_But I have sworn to win it, and though there are many +obstacles here to make the task a hard one, yet, to achieve it, I will +serve, like Jacob, for forty years, if need be_--What a pity he did not +finish it. This was found under the window of his room by Madame Aubrey +and, by her, handed to me. + +_Mar._ Enough. My resolution is taken. + + _Enter MADAME LAROQUE and BEVANNES._ + +_Mad. L._ Oh, my dear child! What a state I have been in about you. How +did you get back? What happened? + +_Mar._ The shepherd, who locks up the tower of Elfen, happened to fasten +it before I left. Some reapers returning home, heard my cries and +brought him back to release me, that is all. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Mad. L._ Ah, Monsieur, you have recovered from the effects of your +fall, I hope? + +_Man._ Entirely, Madame. + +_Mad. L._ [_To MARGUERITE._] But you, my child, must be fatigued, +nervous-- + +_Mar._ On the contrary, dearest mother, I never felt better or more +cheerful than to-night, which I will prove to you whenever the ball +commences. + +_Bev._ The ball! why, surely, you'll never think of-- + +_Mar._ Dancing? Indeed but I shall though--and you, M. de Bevannes, +will be my first partner, will you not? + +_Bev._ With the greatest delight--but pray, let me advise-- + +_Mar._ Advise nothing--you shall be my chief cavalier for the evening. + +_Bev._ But my dress-- + +_Mar._ Your residence is hardly two miles from this; you can go home, +dress, and be here again--all within an hour. + + [_Speaks to MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Bev._ [_Aside._] This anxiety portends something. Bevannes, my boy, the +chase is nearly over, for the quarry is in sight. + +_Mar._ Nonsense, my dear mother! I will have my own way for once. + +_Mad. L._ For _once_! + +_Mar._ My carriage shall take M. de Bevannes, and bring him back. Where +are all the servants? Here, some one--oh! the steward! go and order my +carriage. + +_Mad. L._ [_Surprised at her tone of voice._] My dear. + +_Man._ [_Quietly rising and ringing a bell, which summons_ ALAIN, _who +enters_.] I believe Mlle Marguerite has some orders for you. + +_Alain._ Mademoiselle-- + +_Mar._ I have none--you may leave the room. [_Exit ALAIN._ + +_Bev._ Come, come, this sort of thing won't do. + +_Mar._ Monsieur de Bevannes. + +_Bev._ As you please--but permit me to regret that I have not the right +to interfere here. + +_Man._ Your regret is unnecessary, sir--for if I did not see fit to obey +the lady's orders, I hold myself at yours. + +_Bev._ Enough, sir; I shall act accordingly. + +_Mad. L._ Gentlemen, I beg, I entreat-- + +_Mar._ Monsieur de Bevannes. + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle? + +_Mar._ Have the goodness to follow me--I must speak with you in the +presence of my mother only. Not a word, if you would ever speak with me +again--follow me now, at once. [_Exit with MADAME LAROQUE._ + +_Bev._ [_To MANUEL._] I believe, sir, we comprehend each other? + + _MANUEL bows--Exit BEVANNES--MANUEL turns and encounters the look + of MLLE HELOUIN, who curtsies and exits._ + +_Man._ I see plainly now to whom I owe all this. Well, well, what +matters it to whom? The one thin ray of light upon my desolate and +gloomy path has vanished. Pshaw! This is no time for dreams or vain +regrets. [_Rings._ + + _Enter ALAIN._ + +Has Dr. Desmarets returned? + +_Alain._ No, Monsieur. + +_Man._ The moment he arrives I must see him. + +_Alain._ I know--I know all about it. I overheard. Oh, sir, this is most +unfortunate. + +_Man._ It is, but unavoidable. I did not seek it-- + +_Alain._ And that devil of a Bevannes is a fine swordsman, and the best +pistol-shot in Brittany. + +_Man._ So much the better. The contest will be the more equal. + +_Alain._ Indeed! + +_Man._ I have had much practice with both weapons. + +_Alain._ Oh then, pray do me one favor, sir. Don't kill him, but hit him +in the leg. He's so deuced proud of his leg and foot. + +_Man._ There, that will do. Let me know the instant the Doctor arrives. + +_Alain._ I will sir, I will, but don't forget. Pray don't forget the +leg--the leg, sir, if you love me. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ For myself, it matters not, but my sister, my little darling, +helpless sister--should I fall--Oh! Heaven, let my errors be so atoned, +and look down in pity on the orphan child, bereaved of earthly succor, +to be the more dependent upon thine. + + [_As he raises his head, he perceives BEVANNES approaching, and + his bearing becomes calm and resolute._ + + _Enter BEVANNES._ + +_Bev._ Monsieur Manuel, can I have a few words with you? + +_Man._ I am at your service, sir. + +_Bev._ What I am about to say, considering our position, may seem +irregular, but I obey orders which cannot be disputed. Besides, I +believe no man can doubt my courage-- + +_Man._ Not I, be assured, sir. + +_Bev._ To be brief, I am commissioned by the ladies to express their +regret for what has just occurred. M'lle Marguerite, in a moment of +forgetfulness, gave you certain orders, which it was plainly not your +province to fulfil. Your susceptibility was justly wounded. We admit +it, and-- + +_Man._ Not one word more, sir, I entreat. + +_Bev._ Your hand. [_MANUEL gives his hand._] The ladies also desire me +to express their hope that this momentary misunderstanding will not +deprive them of your good offices, the value of which they fully +appreciate, and I am extremely happy in having acquired within the last +few minutes, the right to join my entreaty to theirs. My most ardent +wish is about to be gratified. + +_Man._ Indeed? + +_Bev._ And I shall feel personally obliged if you will not refuse us +your aid upon the eve of an event which family affairs and the failing +health of old Monsieur Laroque compels us to hasten. + + _Enter ALAIN with a box containing deeds, &c._ + +Oh, thank you. Place it on the table. [_ALAIN does so and exits._] These +are the private papers and memoranda of Mons. Laroque, and the ladies +beg, as a proof of their entire confidence, that you will examine them +and take notes of such matters as will prove important to the marriage +contract. + +_Man._ I shall obey their orders to the best of my ability. + +_Bev._ Thank you, my dear fellow. I feel assured you will, and now, I +trust, we shall in future, understand one another better. I do not think +that, hitherto, either of us has formed a correct estimate of the other. +I protest to you that I'm disposed to like _you_ immensely. For myself, +I'm a very nice man, but I must be cultivated. Cultivate me, my dear +sir, and I give you my word you'll find me one of the most agreeable +fellows you ever knew; you will, indeed. Cultivate me, I beg. [_Exit._ + +_Man._ Well, well. He is her equal in fortune, and therefore, of course, +above suspicion. Poor girl! She is unaware that, in this world the +greatest beggars are not, always the poorest. She would see how I can +support the torture she inflicts. She shall be gratified, for she shall +see me even at the foot of the altar. But she will not triumph there, +for her pride, lofty as it is, shall pale before my own. Now to my +work. [_Sits and turns over papers._] Nothing here that I have not +seen before. "Title Deeds to"--Umph! "Legacies to my children." +"Marriage portion for Marguerite" and--Ah! What's this? My name! +"The Antilles"--yes, I remember, our family had large estates there, +but that, was long ago. Let me see, let me see. [_He reads, and as he +does so his face expresses, first, surprise, and then conviction and +triumph._] Great Heaven! And can this be so? Miserable old man. This, +then, is the secret of your wanderings, your visions, and of my unsought +influence. And now, _now_ I have them in my power. They shall find that +there is still some blood left in the heart that they would crush. This +proud, unfeeling girl, has yet to learn the meaning of that bitter word, +_humility_, and she _shall_ learn it. [_MARGUERITE speaks without._ + +_Mar._ He will soon return, dear mother. Meantime I will prepare for the +ball. [_She enters, crosses slowly, and exit, after a look at MANUEL._ + +_Man._ No--no--I can _not_! Never, never, by my act, shall the blush of +shame crimson that noble face. Laroque cannot live long. Let his crime +and his confession die before him! [_Music._] To my deep love I +consecrate the sacrifice. + + _Burns paper. While he contemplates it burning, MADAME AUBREY looks + in unseen by him._ + + +SCENE II.--_A hall in the Chateau._ + + _Enter BEVANNES and ALAIN, meeting._ + +_Bev._ Alain, who arrived just now? + +_Alain._ The Doctor, sir. He's gone to Monsieur Laroque's room. + +_Bev._ Is Mademoiselle Marguerite's carriage ready for me? + +_Alain._ Quite ready, Monsieur. + +_Bev._ Very well. Tell the ladies I shall be back in an hour, at most. + +_Alain._ You'll have to drive fast, sir, to do it in the time. + +_Bev._ I shall make my toilette less perfect than usual, and take an +elaborate revenge another time. + + _Enter DESMARETS._ + +_Des._ Bevannes that you? where are you off to? + +_Bev._ Home, for a short time. + +_Des._ Better stay where you are--the ladies may want your assistance. + +_Bev._ I know--at the ball-- + +_Des._ Ball? stuff! If I don't mistake, you'll have something else +to think of. Alain, let that prescription be sent to the village +immediately. + +_Alain._ Yes, Doctor. [_Exit._ + +_Bev._ Why, what's the matter? + +_Des._ Old Laroque is very ill to-night. By the by, what's this he told +me about a marriage in the family? + +_Bev._ Quite true. The fair Marguerite has become alive to my +merits--she knows me at last. + +_Des._ And accepts you? + +_Bev._ Of course. + +_Des._ Little fool. + +_Bev._ Sir! + +_Des._ I don't mean _you_. + +_Bev._ Ah! + +_Des._ I tell you what, my friend, you hardly know what you've +undertaken. I wish you joy--I wouldn't have the management of girl for a +trifle. Ecod! if she takes a fancy to the _moon_, she'll expect you to +give it her. + +_Bev._ Oh, I'm not afraid. However, I'll go and dress, as it is her +wish, and take the chance of the ball coming off. + +_Des._ And you've determined to marry her? + +_Bev._ Most certainly. + +_Des._ Spite of all her caprices? + +_Bev._ Decidedly-- + +_Des._ And if she wants the moon-- + +_Bev._ She must fetch it herself. [_Exit._ + +_Des._ Queer match--what does it mean? As to her loving that fellow, I +don't believe a word of it. Now to the old man--it won't do to leave him +alone--he's got one of his wandering fits on him, and he'll be all over +the house if I don't look to him. What a nice quiet life a doctor's is. + + [_Exit._ + + +SCENE III.--_Same as First--Music._ + + _MANUEL discovered asleep--MAD. AUBREY opens door and looks in._ + +_Mad. A._ Worn out with the day's excitement, he's asleep at last. +[_Comes in._] What could that paper have been, I saw him burn? Ah! +there's the envelope he threw away, when he put it in the flame. +[_Picks it up._] So, so--what's that? a footstep. [_Exit._ + + _MONSIEUR LAROQUE opens door and looks in--He is very pale and + appears much exhausted--He looks back and beckons, as if to + followers--Music ceases._ + +_Lar._ This way--this way--quickly--but silently. Silently, men or +we shall spoil all. Remember, they are _English_, and spare not! no +quarter! no quarter, mind--but softly--softly--and fire not until I give +the word! Then--then--every drop of Saxon blood shall float a world of +crime from off my soul! One moment--_now! now!_ + + _He raises his arm, as if to strike, when he sees MANUEL, upon whose + face the lamp throws a powerful light--A pause._ + +Heaven have mercy! 'tis he. At such an hour as this I can _not_ be +mistaken! It is he--[_MANUEL awakes._]--My Lord Marquis! + + _MARGUERITE appears._ + +_Man._ What is this? + +_Lar._ Pity--pity--and forgive me. + + [_MANUEL all at once comprehending, advances to M. LAROQUE._ + +_Man._ Miserable man, I pity, and I forgive. + +_Mar._ What does this mean? + +_Man._ Oh, nothing, Mademoiselle, but I thought it better to humor his +delirium. [_LAROQUE staggers. MANUEL places him in chair._ + + _Enter ALAIN, DESMARETS, MADAME LAROQUE and MLLE HELOUIN._ + +_Mar._ Grandfather, dearest, speak to me--it is Marguerite, your child, +to whom you were always so good, who loves you so. You have some +thought, some remembrance which torments you. Is it not so? Tell me, +dearest, tell your own Marguerite. [_Music._ + + _LAROQUE looks up, makes one or two endeavors to speak, when his + head again falls on his breast._ + +_Mar._ Mother! mother! Oh Heavens! Can nothing be done? + + _DR. DESMARETS places his hand on LAROQUE'S heart, and looks at + MANUEL, who, in answer to an appeal from MARGUERITE and MADAME + LAROQUE, points upwards._ + + +END TABLEAU V. + + +Lapse of Some Months. + + + + +TABLEAU VI. + + + _Saloon in the Chateau Laroque splendidly decorated and furnished. + Arches R., L. and C. ALAIN and Servants discovered arranging + furniture, lighting lamps, &c._ [_Music._ + +_Alain._ There now. I think everything is pretty well arranged here, +so run away all of you and see to the preparations outside. [_Exeunt +servants._] 'Pon my life I'm nearly done up. All of a sudden to change a +house that has, for the last five months appeared like a mourning coach, +into a dandified, bright-looking mansion prepared for a marriage fete, +requires more inventive genius than ever I shall get credit for. If I +could only extend my transforming powers to the faces of the family, I +should be much gratified, for such a grim-looking household exists not +in Brittany at this moment. There's M'lle Marguerite. The nearer the +time approaches for the marriage, the paler she grows. Madame Laroque +does nothing but freeze and shiver, Mons. Manuel is absent for days +together, and Madame Aubrey weeps a good tea-cup full about every two +hours. Cheerful work, very. + + _Enter MADEMOISELLE HELOUIN._ + +_Mlle H._ Alain go and tell Monsieur Manuel I wish for a few moments' +conversation with him. + +_Alain._ Monsieur Manuel, M'lle? Why, bless you, he's been at Largeot +for the last three days. + +_Mlle H._ He has returned. I saw him ride into the court-yard some +fifteen minutes since. + +_Alain._ Where shall I tell him to come to you, Mademoiselle? + +_Mlle H._ Are all your preparations made here? + +_Alain._ Yes, Mademoiselle. I have sent the servants to other work. + +_Mlle H._ Request, Mons. Manuel, then, to see me here, and to come +instantly, as it is important I should speak to him at once. + +_Alain._ Very well, Mademoiselle. [_Exit._ + + _Mlle Helouin goes to Arches and ascertains that no one is near to + listen._ + +_Mlle H._ And now, Manuel Marquis de Champcey, we will try the issue. +How often and how vainly do I question my own heart. Were Manuel other +than he is, should I pursue him thus? What motive sways my action? Is it +love? Ambition? Both? I know not, and will not reflect. There lies the +path. Some resistless impulse urges me along, nor will I, _can_ I +swerve, till all is won or lost. + + _Enter MANUEL._ + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, good evening. Alain informs me that you wish to +speak with me. + +_Mlle H._ For a few moments. Your stay at Langeot has been shorter than +usual. + +_Man._ I returned a day earlier than I had intended. Respect for the +family suggests that I should not be absent on an occasion like the +present. + +_Mlle H._ An occasion that gives you an opportunity of showing that you +possess _moral_, as well as physical courage, of no common order. + +_Man._ You are pleased to be enigmatical. + +_Mlle H._ I shall indulge in no enigma that you cannot speedily solve. +And now. Manuel, take good heed of what I say, but I warn you do not +judge me by a common standard. My nature and my sad dependant lot, place +me beyond the pale of those born for a happier fate. From the first hour +we met, my heart was drawn insensibly towards you. Still that heart was +safe. A mere spark existed, which reason and reflection might have +killed; you yourself, in defining the bond of sympathy between us, +raised from that spark a flame. + +_Man._ Madame, in justice to myself, I must interrupt you. Never by word +or deed have I-- + +_Mlle H._ Go on sir, pray do not spare me. Never have you _encouraged_, +you would say. Well, I grant it. Be it so. Your reserve and coldness +could not alter me. What fire but burns the fiercer in the frosty air? +And yet if you have pride, so too have I, and I will confess that +something more exists to keep the flame alive than love. Ambition, and +the hope to triumph over one who is a rival. These, I am free to own, +would be incentives enough for me, if love existed not. + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, at the risk of appearing vain, I must tell you you +are most fortunate. + +_Mlle H._ Indeed sir, how so? + +_Man._ In saying all this to a _gentleman_. + +_Mlle H._ Oh, sir, of that I'm well aware, by birth-- + +_Man._ And _principle_. I do not affect to despise the one, but I +take more pride in the other. The first, is for the present, buried. +Therefore, if you have any appeal to make, let it be to the last. + +_Mlle H._ I _have_ an appeal to make, but, even though compelled to +differ with so sage an adviser, I shall make it to an ally more powerful +than either. + +_Man._ And what is that? + +_Mlle H._ Self interest. + +_Man._ You think so? + +_Mlle H._ I'm sure of it. + +_Man._ Will you permit me to suggest that an important ceremony is to +take place in this room to-night, and the hour approaches. + +_Mlle H._ Well, then, if I appear abrupt, attribute it to your delicate +reminder, and not to my own desire. You love Marguerite Laroque-- + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, this is beyond-- + +_Mlle H._ You love Marguerite Laroque. That love is hopeless. +Everything is prepared for the ceremony you speak of, and if a shade of +doubt as to her destiny existed, it can live no longer now. I possess a +secret which, if given to the world, will compromise your honesty as a +man, your honor as a gentleman, and sink the proud name you bear to a +depth that even the despised governess could look down upon with pity. +Manuel Marquis de Champcey, give _me_ the title _she_ can never bear, +and I am silent. A wife none the less devoted because, at first, +unsought--a friend none the less sincere, though newly found. + +_Man._ Mademoiselle, you are a singular instance of a well known fact. + +_Mlle H._ And what may that be, sir? + +_Man._ That the cleverest people sometimes do the silliest things. Had +you been a simple, uneducated rustic, you would have reflected seriously +before you lowered yourself in the opinion of the man you professed to +love. But, as you are--accomplished, shrewd, and resolute, you have +taken the worst road by which to gain the end you coveted. Nay more; you +have allowed impulse to snatch the reins from principle, and those +unbroken steeds, Passion and Ambition, have taken the bit in their +mouths, galloped off with common sense, and I very much fear it will +cost you some time and trouble to come up with them. I need hardly add, +Mademoiselle, that I decline continuing this conversation. [_Exit._ + +_Mlle H._ [_After a pause._] Be it so. The sooner ended the sooner to my +work. I swear, the thought of the revenge I'll take on this proud fool, +makes me all but rejoice in failure. [_Music heard without._] The guests +are arriving. I must not be found here. [_Exit._ + + _Enter ALAIN, then two servants, who arrange tables, chairs, &c. + Enter MADAME LAROQUE, M'LLE MARGUERITE, M DE BEVANNES, DESMARET, + MONS. NOURET, M'LLE HELOUIN, MADAM AUBREY, MANUEL and Guests._ + +_Mad. L._ [_to servants._] That will do, you may retire. + + [_Exeunt ALAIN and servants._ + +_Des._ Before you proceed to business, Monsieur Nouret, I will make a +few preliminary remarks, if you will allow me. + +_Mons. Nouret._ Certainly, Doctor. Pray speak. + +_Des._ For the information of those friends of the family who are yet +unacquainted with the facts, I wish to state that, before the death of +M. Laroque, he wrote a letter to be given to me, his oldest friend, when +he was no more. I shall read a short extract. [_Reads._] "For these +reasons it is my earnest desire, nay positive injunction, that my +grand-daughters' marriage shall take place within six months of my +death, with the same ceremonies and rejoicings as though I were still +living, and the reading of the will shall immediately succeed the +marriage." And now, Monsieur, before proceeding, it is necessary for you +to state that all is ready for the reading of the will immediately on +our return. + +_Mons._ N. I trust all _will_ be ready, Doctor; but, at present, I +cannot say it is so, for although I find the will and codicils of the +deceased to be in the most perfect order, and numbered in regular +succession, I have, thus far, been unable to discover the first of the +series, marked No. 1. All the rest are here--2, 3, 4, and 5--but 1 is +wanting. Now the legacies are, with the exception of a few to the old +servants, entirely to Mons. Laroque's blood relations. + +_Mad. A._ [_Weeps._] Oh! + +_Mons. N._ Be comforted Madame, he was indeed a kind man. His blood +relations have all been thought of. + +_Mad. A._ But I'm _not_ a blood relation. Oh! [_Weeps._ + +_Mlle H._ Is it not possible that the missing paper may contain-- + +_Mad. A._ No doubt of it, no doubt of it. And that is burnt. + +_All._ Burnt! + +_Mlle H._ You saw Mons. Manuel, the steward, burn a paper. You found the +envelope, and gave it to me? + +_Mad. A._ I did, but I never-- + +_Mlle H._ Silence! [_Gives envelope to MONS. NOURET._] Examine that, +sir. + +_Mons. N._ It is the hand-writing of the deceased, and the envelope of +the peculiar size and make of all the others. [_All look at MANUEL._ + +_Mad. L._ Monsieur Manuel, what have you to say to this? + +_Bev._ Speak, sir. + +_Man._ The lady is right, I _did_ burn the paper. + +_Mad. L._ Great Heavens! [_All rise._ + +_Man._ But she is mistaken as to the purport of the document. + +_Bev._ Upon my soul this is a little too strong. + +_Mad. L._ Oh, Monsieur Manuel, do not tell me you have so far abused our +confidence. Do not tell me that one whom I had begun to love almost as a +son, has fallen low enough to commit so vile an act. I am an old woman, +sir, and in the course of nature, you must outlive me. My child is +provided for. You shall share with me while I live, and all I have shall +be yours at last if you will but refute this, if you will but give me +the joy of knowing you are innocent. + +_Mons. N._ Come sir, this painful matter may be set at rest, perhaps, if +you will tell us the content of that paper. + +_Des._ Manuel, my son. + +_Mad. L._ Oh! for my sake! + +_Man._ [_Looks at MARGUERITE and says._] I will not speak. + + [_Exit DESMARETS._ + +_Mad. L._ [_After a short pause._] Then sir, much as it pains me, +you must, clearly understand that we can live no longer under the +same roof. + +_Man._ [_Going._] I know it, madame. + +_Mar._ And [_He turns at the sound of her voice_,] have you _nothing_, +not _one_ word to say in your defence? + +_Man._ Not one word. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. L._ Oh Marguerite, my joy on this occasion is lost in this most +unhappy discovery. + +_Mar._ [_Aside._] And my misery doubled. Do not follow me, dear mother, +I will rejoin you directly. [_Exit._ + +_Mad. A._ Oh!-- [_Weeps._ + +_Bev._ My dear madame, I beg to remind you that this is my wedding day. +Pray reserve your tears till after the ceremony. [_Re-enter DESMARETS._] +My friends, if you will adjourn to the reception room, the carriages +will be ready immediately. [_Exeunt guests and MADAME AUBREY._ + +_Des._ [_To M'LLE H._] Mademoiselle, you do not appear as much shocked +as we are by this unfortunate discovery. + +_Mlle H._ Simply, Doctor, because, knowing the gentleman, I am not +surprised. + +_Des._ You are not? + +_Mlle H._ Not at all. [_Exit._ + +_Des._ Umph! Bevannes, my dear fellow, I'm loth to delay an event which, +by a popular but pleasant fallacy, is supposed to be the happiest in a +man's life, but I must request, before we go to the chapel, that you +will give me a few moments of your attention. + +_Bev._ Certainly Doctor; the evening's before us. Pray vary the +entertainment according to your own taste. + +_Des._ My dear madame, I must also request _your_ presence, and, as what +I am about to say is important, and guests are still arriving, this +apartment will soon become too public for our purpose, therefore, with +your permission, we'll retire to the library which, as the works it +contains are purely instructive, is about the last place our fashionable +friends are likely to visit. + +_Mad. L._ Had we not better wait until we return from-- + +_Des._ By no means. What I have to say must be said at once, and so, +madame, permit me. [_Offers arm._ + +_Bev._ Doctor, that's a remarkably nice young man you recommended for +steward. + +_Des._ Never mind him. We'll talk about him to-morrow. [_Exeunt._ + + _Enter MANUEL, dressed for traveling._ + +_Man._ For her, for her, this bitter, bitter trial. Oh, let that thought +sustain me. Falsely I had imagined that the change from the sweet dreamy +days of my youth, to the stern realities of my manhood, had created for +me that tower of strength to the unfortunate--endurance. But, no, no; +too truly do I feel that, until this moment, I have not known what utter +misery is--one last, last look at scenes made sacred by her presence; at +objects hallowed by her touch, and then, and then-- + + [_He sinks into a chair._ + + [_Enter MARGUERITE. She comes down slowly._] + +_Mar._ Manuel! + +_Man._ Marguerite! + +_Mar._ Hush! move not, nor speak till you have heard me. I am here to +ask forgiveness. + +_Man._ Forgiveness? + +_Mar._ Now, now, I know your truth, too late, oh, Heavens! too late late +I know your pure, unselfish heart. You bore suspicion, insult, scorn, +but I believed you not. How nobly you risked life for honor; yet I +believed you not. + +_Man._ At last then-- + +_Mar._ At last, conviction came; that letter you mislaid-- + +_Man._ Relating to my sister-- + +_Mar._ Aye, and _not_ to me. I know it now, Desmarets told me all. + +_Man._ And could you think-- + +_Mar._ I did, I did. Oh, do not scorn me, but grant my prayer, the +first, the _last_ you'll ever hear from Marguerite. There is some +mystery hidden beneath your refusal to speak of the paper you +destroyed--some reason which refers to _me_. Do not deny it, for I know +it. You cannot deceive the watchful eyes of love--for _I love you_, +Manuel. We _must_ part, and forever. My word is pledged already for my +marriage with Bevannes. But by the love which you professed for me, for +your dear sister's sake, for _mine_, [_she kneels_,] clear your good +name of this foul stain. Oh, Manuel! Manuel! do it in pity for the rash, +unhappy girl, who, with ruin staring at her from the fatal rock, +suspicion, spite of reason, spite of warning, wildly, madly dashed +herself upon the shore and made her heart a wreck. + + [_Enter M'LLE HELOUIN._] + +_Mlle H._ Good. I could not have wished it otherwise. [_To MAD. LAROQUE +and DESMARETS who appear with MAD. AUBREY, guests and MONS. NOURET._] +Look, Madame! Look, sir! Observe the faithful, loyal steward, who, not +content with fraud and betrayal of his trust, still lingers on the scene +of his disgrace. Behold the proud _gentleman_, who completes his list +of honorable actions by ensnaring the affections of that unthinking +girl--the betrothed wife of another, the daughter of his benefactress. +[_MADAME LAROQUE and DESMARETS raise MARGUERITE, who is almost +fainting._] Well, you hear all this; you witness it--you are men and +stir not--your friend is betrayed--an aged lady insulted in your +presence, yet there stands the man, erect and fearless. Will you +bear this, I say, or will you cast him forth like the dog he is? + + [_The gentlemen make a movement toward MANUEL._ + +_Des._ Stop. Before Mons. Manuel departs, I have a piece of intelligence +to communicate, which it is important for _him_, as well as you, to +hear. You will the better comprehend it, if I request your patience +while I read a portion of this paper, left in my care by Mons. Laroque, +with discretionary power to destroy or reveal its contents as my +judgment should dictate. Under present circumstances I choose the latter +course. This is in the old man's own handwriting, and you will admit, is +an important episode in his history. The events described occurred in +the West Indies. [_Reads._] "On the approach of hostilities between the +French and English, my father, Pierre Laroque, who was steward to the +then Marquis de Champcey, received orders to sell immediately, the +magnificent estates on the island, and then to join the Marquis (who +commanded a small French fleet) and to bring with him the money realized +from the sale. The estates were sold for a very large sum. With this +money my father and myself started to join the Marquis, but, on our way +were interrupted by an English frigate and taken prisoners. My father +died defending himself. I was promised my life, and permission to escape +with whatever money we had with us when taken, if I would reveal the +hiding place of the French fleet. How shall I write the words? _I +yielded._ A large English force attacked them. The Marquis was killed, +and I came to France a wealthy, but dishonored man." Such is the +confession left in my hands. Such is the confession which makes the +present Marquis de Champcey master of this and all the property the old +man left, and such is the duplicate of the paper which that young man +destroyed. + + [_Great sensation among all the dramatis personae. The Doctor leads + MARGUERITE to MANUEL, then turns and embraces MAD. LAROQUE. Guests + crowd round MANUEL, congratulating him._] + +_Mlle H._ [_To MADAME AUBREY._] Hark'ye Madame-- + +_Mad. A._ Oh! go away, you nasty thing. You've made a pretty mess of it. +You've caused me to do mischief enough. I won't be corrupted by you any +more. [_She goes to MANUEL and shakes hands with him violently._ + +_Mlle H._ [_Aside._] Baffled. Foiled at every turn. [_Enter BEVANNES._] +Ah! no. One hope _is_ left. Mons. de Bevannes, you are well arrived. In +good time to defend your honor, which is greviously in peril here. That +man, the steward, by a strange reverse of fortune, has become master of +this great estate. + +_Bev._ So I have already been informed. + +_Mlle H._ Well, look there. Have you eyes? + +_Bev._ Madame, you wound my vanity. + +_Mlle H._ Do you not see that the new master here is likely to become +lord where you alone should reign? Will you tamely submit and give her +up? + +_Bev._ Madame, you just now reflected on my person, now you do worse; +you attack my heart. Do you think I am the man to step between two +devoted young creatures for my own selfish ends? No! The moment I found +the dear girl was penniless, I destroyed the contract, and in the most +generous manner, gave her back her word. + +_Mad. L._ I won't go near her. I do believe she'd bite me. Doctor, will +_you_ have the goodness? + +_Des._ [_To MLLE HELOUIN._] Mademoiselle, you were very anxious just now +for somebody to turn out--I don't wish to be ungallant--but what is +going to take place here will coincide so little with your arrangements, +that the ladies think--that perhaps-- + +_Mlle H._ Enough, sir. [_To MANUEL._] If I am criminal, you shall not +call me hypocrite. I go, and as a parting gift, take from me such wishes +for your future, as bitter scorn and baffled hate may leave. [_Exit._ + +_Bev._ A very nice young person that. + +_Des._ But come, come, what the deuce are you all standing here for? + + [_Enter ALAIN._] + +_Alain._ Please Madame, the grounds are lit up, the carriages ready and +all the country folks are waiting. + +_Des._ Come. The bride and bridegroom. Come along. + +_Mar._ Now--at once? Oh, Doctor. + +_Des._ Now--at once? Of course; do you think all our pretty preparations +are to go for nothing? + +_Bev._ Mademoiselle, I've got myself up utterly regardless of expense, +and if _somebody_ ain't married, I shall withdraw my consent. + +_Mad. A._ Oh, Mons. de Bevannes do not let that deter you, if you meant +what you said the evening Mons. Laroque died. + +_Bev._ I! + +_Mad. A._ Why, be it so. + +_Bev._ Be it so? Be it what, Madame? + +_Mad. A._ I will dispense with further courtship. + +_Bev._ You may, for an indefinite period. [_They go up._ + +_Des._ So, as soon as Manuel has changed his dress-- + +_Mar._ Nay, dear Manuel, you shall not change it. For the last time, +obey the headstrong girl. In that dress you often bore her taunts and +insults; in that same dress you shall receive her vows of love and duty. + +_Man._ Let it be so then. I will but ask one ornament--the bud you wear +upon your breast. [_She detaches it from her dress._] Look at it, +dearest. It lacks the rich color and the gorgeous blush of one you gave +me once before. But that was lost and trampled under foot. There let it +fade, and typify the errors and misfortunes past, whilst this, just +putting forth its beauty into life, shall be an emblem of dear hopes and +happiness to come. + + [_ALAIN gives a signal--the same chorus as in fourth tableau is + heard. The curtains are suddenly drawn back from the three arches, + showing the park and grounds splendidly illuminated with colored + lamps, and the peasantry assembled, in their picturesque Breton + holiday costume; a troop of little girls headed by CHRISTINE, + form, and strew flowers before MANUEL and MARGUERITE, and the + Curtain falls on a Tableau._] + + +THE END. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Romance of a Poor Young Man, by +Pierrepont Edwards and Lester Wallace + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE ROMANCE OF A POOR YOUNG MAN *** + +***** This file should be named 35342.txt or 35342.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/5/3/4/35342/ + +Produced by Charlene Taylor, Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images +produced by the Wright American Fiction Project.) + + +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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