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diff --git a/43185-8.txt b/43185-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 31d9f7d..0000000 --- a/43185-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4442 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of By Force of Impulse, by Harry V. Vogt - -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: By Force of Impulse - A Drama in Five Acts - -Author: Harry V. Vogt - -Release Date: July 10, 2013 [EBook #43185] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BY FORCE OF IMPULSE *** - - - - -Produced by Dianna Adair, Paul Clark and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - - - BY FORCE OF IMPULSE. - - A DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS. - - BY - HARRY V. VOGT. - - PRICE, 15 CENTS. - - [Illustration] - - NEW YORK: - HAROLD ROORBACH, PUBLISHER, - 9 MURRAY STREET. - - - - -BY FORCE OF IMPULSE. - - - - -CAST OF CHARACTERS. - - -=MORRIS MAITLAND=, A Stern Puritan, with unbending will, whose word is -law. - -=REGINALD MAITLAND=,--His Son; one of Nature's noblemen. - -=HENRY LOWVILLE=, True as Steel; a little soured against the female -sex, and a hater of "fashionable society." - -=RALPH MURDELL=,--A polished, smooth tongued scoundrel. - -=COLONEL MORRELL=, A True Soldier, with a keen sense of duty. - -=GEO. WASHINGTON DOLLERCLUTCH=, An Eccentric Lawyer of the "Old -School," who possesses a large, sympathetic heart. - -=SAMMY DEWDROP=, The Son of a Millionaire; fresh from college, full of -romantic nonsense. - -=ADOLPHUS SOFTHEAD=, His Chum, whose mental faculties have not kept -pace with his physical. - -=CORIOLANUS WELLINGTON=, Who never smiles, and who thinks he was born -to fill a higher station in life than that of menial. - -=ADRIENNE LOWVILLE=, A Proud, Impulsive Beauty, who loves not wisely -but too well. - -=HILDA WALLACE=, Her Maid, whose birth is obscure. An innocent victim -of misplaced love. - -=ANASTASIA MAITLAND=, A Gushing Maiden of Forty-five Summers; very -susceptible. - - GUESTS, SOLDIERS, ETC., ETC. - - - - -SYNOPSIS. - - - =ACT I.= LOVE VERSUS IMPULSE. - =ACT II.= THE SEPARATION. - =ACT III.= DUTY VERSUS IMPULSE. - =ACT IV.= THE RECONCILIATION AND SEQUEL. - =ACT V.= DIVINE IMPULSE. - - - - -COSTUMES. - - -=MORRIS MAITLAND.=--ACT II.--Plain dark suit, white cravat, long haired -gray wig, quarter bald, close shaven face; change coat for long wrapper -in 3d Scene. ACTS IV. and V.--Plain gray business suit, light slouch -hat. - -=REGINALD MAITLAND.=--ACT I.--Black dress suit, black slouch hat. ACT -II.--Dark traveling suit. ACTS III., IV. and V.--Uniform of a Private, -U. S. A. Cloak to throw over uniform in 4th Act. - -=HENRY LOWVILLE.=--ACT I.--Rich hunting suit, gun, game bag, etc. -ACT II.--Uniform of a Recruiting Officer, U. S. A. ACTS III. and -V.--Uniform of a Captain, U. S. A. - -=RALPH MURDELL.=--ACT I.--Black dress suit, silk hat. ACT II.--Genteel -sack suit, derby hat. ACTS III., IV. and V.--Uniform of a Major, U. S. -A. - -=COLONEL MORRELL.=--Uniform of a Colonel, U. S. A. - -=GEO. WASHINGTON DOLLERCLUTCH.=--ACTS I. and II.--Dark pants, dark -cutaway coat, white vest, high collar and cravat, white silk hat, nose -glasses, black crop wig, bald, close shaven face. ACTS III., IV. and -V.--Uniform of a Private, U. S. A. A cloak to throw over uniform in 4th -Act. - -=SAMMY DEWDROP.=--ACT I.--Dark foppish suit, showy jewelry, stand-up -collar and flashy necktie, cane, glasses, silk hat with narrow brim, -red crop wig, close shaven face. ACT II.--White linen suit, small -brimmed straw hat with white band. - -=ADOLPHUS SOFTHEAD.=--ACT I.--Dark frock suit, small derby hat, -very large stud in shirt front, heavy watch chain, large bouquet in -button-hole, blonde crop wig, close shaven face. ACT II.--Light sack -suit, straw hat with blue band. ACTS III. and V.--Uniform of a Private, -U. S. A. Change coat and cap in 3d Act for a Rebel's. - -=CORIOLANUS WELLINGTON.=--ACT I.--Very seedy suit, ŕ la shabby -genteel, long haired black wig. Change in last scene to tight-fitting -black suit, ruffled collar and cravat, white shoe guards, black -square-crowned hat. ACT II.--Same as second change in 1st Act, but -change necktie during Act to a ridiculously large red necktie. ACTS -III. and V.--Uniform of a Private, U. S. A. - -=ADRIENNE LOWVILLE.=--ACT I.--Rich evening dress. ACT II.--Handsome -traveling dress. ACTS IV. and V.--Plain white morning dress. - -=HILDA WALLACE.=--ACT I.--Very plain black cloth dress, no jewelry or -ornaments, derby hat; change in last scene to white apron and frilled -cap. ACT II.--Same as 1st, and change as before in last scene. ACT -IV.--Same as before, with slight changes. ACT V.--Plain silk dress. - -=ANASTASIA MAITLAND.=--ACTS I. and II.--Old-fashioned black silk dress, -large bonnet, large parasol and fan, wig with curls. Change bonnet in -2d Act for a frilled cap. ACTS IV. and V.--Same as before with some -changes. - - - - -PROPERTIES. - - -=Act I.=--SCENE 1.--Writing materials, books, etc., on table. Lawyer's -bag, papers, memorandums, etc., for Dollerclutch. Newspaper with -written paragraph, also sealed letter, writing materials, etc., on -desk. Baby dress and money for Hilda Wallace. Lunch for Coriolanus -to bring on. SCENE 2.--Sign on tree. Segar-case and match-box for -Reginald. SCENE 3.--Small valise with smelling-bottle in it for -Coriolanus. Matches for Sammy Dewdrop. Memorandum tablet and pencil for -Dollerclutch. Card-case for Ralph. - -=Act II.=--SCENE 1.--Bell on table. Knitting for Anastasia. Bundle and -wraps for Hilda. SCENE 2.--Roll of draft, pencil and pistol for Henry. -SCENE 3.--Memorandum tablet, pencil and baby dress for Dollerclutch. -Letter for Anastasia. Pistol and roll of draft for Henry. Basket with -broken glass off L. 2 E. - -=Act III.=--Card photograph for Reginald. Rebel hat and coat and -whiskers and pieces of rope in L. 3 E. for Adolphus. Switch in L. 3 E. -for Coriolanus. Pistol and baby dress for Dollerclutch. Large wallet -containing two special papers, etc.; also, six letters for Ralph to -bring on. Cloak in tent L. 4 E. for Dollerclutch, and one in tent L. 5 -E. for Reginald. - -=Act IV.=--SCENE 1.--Pen, ink and paper on table. Knitting and letter -for Anastasia. SCENE 2.--Cloak and two special papers and baby dress -for Dollerclutch. SCENE 3.--Candles on table. Letter for Adrienne. Ring -for Dollerclutch. - -=Act V.=--Map on table for officers. Bundle containing letter and -envelope, with blackened paper and bullet in it, for Coriolanus to -bring on. Seal ring and Ralph Murdell's left shoulder strap for -Dollerclutch. Revolver at prompt R. 2 E. Two handkerchiefs for -Adolphus. One handkerchief for Ralph. - - - - -SCENERY. - - -ACT I. - -SCENE 1.--Dollerclutch's Office in 4th Grooves. - -[Illustration] - -C. door in flat. Door, R. 4 E. Fireplace, L. 3 E. Window, L. F. and L. -4 E. Book-case against R. F. Hat-rack, R. 3 E. Desk and chair, L. C. -Table and chairs, R. C. - -SCENE 2.--A Wood-pass in 2d Grooves. Sign on tree, R. F.--"Beware! Do -not disturb the Deer. Wm. Lowville." - -SCENE 3.--(Entire Stage.)--Grounds adjoining Wm. Lowville's Mansion. -Illuminated by colored lamps. Flat in 5th Grooves representing a -terrace. The wings represent trees. - -[Illustration] - -Fountain, statuary, flower urns, iron chairs, trees, etc. Rustic -benches, R. 3 E. and L. 2 E. - - -Act II. - -SCENE 1.--Sitting Room in the Maitland Cottage in 4 G. Plainly but -substantially furnished. Scene backed by wood-scene in 5 G. Time, -evening. Moonlight effect back of 4 G. - -[Illustration] - -Large open window, C. of F. Glass doors, R. and L. F. Doors, L. 2 E. -and R. 3 E. Fireplace, L. 3 E. Table and chairs, L. C. High-back chair, -R. C. Old-fashioned clock, R. 4 E. - -SCENE 2.--Street Scene in 1 G. - -SCENE 3.--(Entire Stage.)--Outside of Maitland Cottage. Backed by -wood-scene in 5 G. Plain cottage, with ivy and roses, on left. Time, -morning. - -[Illustration] - -Picket fence, with gate in C., in the background. Rustic bench against -tree, R. C. - - -ACT III. - -CAMP SCENE.--(Entire Stage.)--Scene representing a rocky ravine. - -[Illustration] - -High set rock, L. 5 E. Cannon and cannon balls, L. 5 E. Tent, C., near -flat. Tent, R. 5 E. and L. 4 E. Camp stools, R. C. 4 E., R. 4 E., R. 2 -E., R. C. 2 E., L. 2 E. Camp-fire, R. C. 4 E. Stack of guns, R. 3 E. - - -ACT IV. - -SCENE 1.--(Same as 1st Scene, 2d Act, with addition of child's crib, L. -4 E.) Time, morning. Sunlight effect back of 4 G. - -SCENE 2.--Wood-pass in 1 G. Time, night. - -SCENE 3.--(Same as 1st Scene.) Time, night. Moonlight effect back of 4 -G. - - -ACT V. - -CAMP SCENE.--(Same as Act 3d, with addition of table and three camp -stools R. 2 E.) - - - - -STAGE DIRECTIONS. - - -The player is supposed to be facing the audience. C., centre. R., -right. L., left. R.C., right of centre. L.C., left of centre. D., door. -R.D., right door. L.D., left door. C.D., centre door. F.D., door in -flat. R.F.D., door in right flat. L.F.D., door in left flat. 1 E., -first entrance. 2 E., second entrance. U.E., upper entrance. 1 G., -first groove. 2 G., second groove. - - R. R.C. C. L.C. L. - - - - -NOTE. - - -_The character of Coriolanus Wellington, to carry out successfully -the idea of the author, should be played with an extreme degree of -solemnity, so as to appear ludicrous. His action should be of the lofty -and dignified order, but greatly overdrawn, and he should be decidedly -mechanical in his movements and gestures._ - - - - -BY FORCE OF IMPULSE. - - - - -ACT 1. - - - =Scene 1=: DOLLERCLUTCH'S OFFICE. - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, D. R. 4 E., with lawyer's bag. He empties - his pockets of papers, etc., on desk, L. 3 E., while speaking._ - -=Dol.= Now if that isn't confoundedly provoking, I'd just like to know -what is. There I've been on a ninety-mile journey; and what did I gain? -Nothing, absolutely nothing, and just to think of throwing away so much -money for railroad travel, only to have the satisfaction of knowing -that you have added to the pile of monopoly and have nothing in return. -Confound these railroad companies anyhow! Honest people subscribe to -the stock and build them; then come along these "stock jobbing sharks," -who corner the stocks and put the road in their vest-pockets. And they -call that business; but it's only another name for d--n robbery. But -where is that confounded Coriolanus? [_Calls._] Coriolanus! Coriolanus! -Just like the rascal. Whenever you want him, nowhere to be found. -When he is about, what good is he with his stuck up manners and airs? -Thinks himself born to fill a higher sphere in life. But the only -thing he's good for is to stand him in the entry and use him for a hat -rack. Confound him anyhow! [_Calls._] Coriolanus! [_Listens._] Where -the deuce can he be? To gratify him I answered an advertisement for a -position, which, he says, would be more suitable for his intellectual -and genteel qualities--and, if it is only successful I shall be well -rid of the rascal. [_Picks up letter._] Hello! just the thing, by -jingo! [_Reads._] "Terms satisfactory. If convenient come at once. The -position is man-servant; but, as I am away at business during the day, -I want a reliable and intelligent person to supervise the work about -the premises, and be a protector to the females." That will just please -him, and it will just please me to get rid of him. [_CORIOLANUS puts -his head in C. door._] - -=Cor.= Was I mistaken, or did the sound of your voice penetrate the -cavity of my ear? - -=Dol.= Did I call? Well, if that ain't cool! Call? Of course I -did!--and why the deuce didn't you come immediately? - - CORIOLANUS =Enters=. - -=Cor.= Because, my dear sir, I was otherwise engaged, and I felt -assured that you would indulge me to that extent and postpone your -desires to my especial accommodation. Thank you! [_With a wave of the -hand._] - -=Dol.= Oh! and how in thunder were you engaged? - -=Cor.= [_Loftily._] I was paring my finger nails. - -=Dol.= Oh! Oh! [_Falls in chair at desk._] This is too much. To return -travel-wearied and hungry, and be made to wait by such a jackass. And -I must be at court at ten, and [_pulls out watch_] it's nine now. -[_Starts up in a rage._] I'll not stand it, sir! I'll throw you out of -the window! - -=Cor.= [_R. C._] Indeed! Then I should be at a loss to wonder what -could be the matter with the door. Stay your temper, sir! It is -decidedly unbecoming a man of your years. Preserve a calm dignity such -as I furnish a striking example of. - -=Dol.= [_Disgusted._] There, sir! [_Hands him letter._] This is the -gratitude I receive for what I have done for you. Read it, and I hope -you will have as much joy of it as I have in getting rid of you. - -=Cor.= Thank you! Thanks! You have performed your duty well. Some day I -will return the kindness; I shall engage you as my lawyer. - -=Dol.= Get out, or I shall be tempted to do you an injury. Get your -things ready to leave to-night, sir! I'll not put up with your nonsense -and impudence another day. Now go, sir! and order a lunch for me at the -restaurant, to be sent here--and mind you see that I am not disturbed -until court time. I've got more than I can do to prepare my cases for -this morning's court. I may forget the flight of time, in which case -you will please come in and remind me of court time. - -=Cor.= Your wishes shall be obeyed. I fly to execute your orders. -[=Exit= _D. R. 4 E._] - -=Dol.= [_At desk L. 3 E._] George Washington, you're a fool--your -magnanimous nature has suffered you to be imposed upon--you're -a--[_CORIOLANUS puts his head in D. R. 4 E._] - -=Cor.= I beg your pardon, sir! [_He_ =Enters=.] In the excitement of -the moment I neglected to inform you that a lady called to see you. I -informed her that you were out of town. She was much distressed at the -information. She waited for you until eight o'clock, when she left in a -state of great mental excitement. She's been waiting since six o'clock -this morning, waiting your arrival. - -=Dol.= If she comes back don't let her in. Tell her to come to-morrow -morning. I cannot attend to any more business before court. [_He busies -himself among papers._] - -=Cor.= [_Bows._] I fly! [=Exit= _D. R. 4 E._] - -=Dol.= Egad! Some people must think lawyers are made of iron and work -like machines! No! I'll listen to no more cases before court. I've -only got one head and one pair of arms. [_CORIOLANUS puts his head in -D. R. 4 E. To CORIOLANUS._] Well, sir! What now? - -=Cor.= [=Enters.=] She's come back! I delivered your message. She wrung -her hands and said she came eighteen miles to see you, and she must -return at noon. - -=Dol.= I can't help it! She must come another time. I positively -decline to see any one before court. - -=Cor.= I quicken! [=Exit= _D. R. 4 E._] - -=Dol.= Some one without money to try to enlist my sympathies in helping -some scalawag out of trouble. Not long ago I defended a tramp whom I -thought unjustly used. I helped him out of the scrape and gave him -a bowl of soup and some alms to help him on--and how did the rascal -serve me? He published it about the town, and for two weeks I had every -tramp from fifty miles around at my door begging for soup and alms. -You don't get George Washington Dollerclutch in such a scrape again. -[_Sees newspaper._] Hello! what's this? [_Picks up paper and adjusts -spectacles. Reads._] "On the Brink of a Civil War." Lord bless us! -[_Adjusts his glasses._] "Slavery and Anti-Slavery." "The Inauguration -of Lincoln." Ah! That's my man--Old honest Abe! He'll show those -rascally slave masters a thing or two before he's done with them. -[_Reads._] "Firing on Fort Sumter." "Major Ander--"[_Drops paper._] -Hang it all! I can't get that girl out of my mind. What the dickens -did she want to say that for, anyhow? [_Sighs._] Well! Well! [_Picks -up paper and reads._] "Major Anderson with seventy men, after a brave -resistance of three hours against five thousand Secessionists, was -finally obliged to surrender." Eighteen miles to see me? It must be an -important case. [_Rises to his feet._] Confound it anyhow! Why did I -let it slip? [_Calls._] Coriolanus! - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, D. R. 4 E._ - -=Cor.= You have called! I have obeyed your summons. - -=Dol.= Hold your tongue! Just go at once, and run after that girl and -bring her back. - -=Cor.= [_Bows._] I quicken! [=Exit= _D. R. 4 E._] - -=Dol.= Why the dickens does she want to come here and upset my peace of -mind? - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, D. R. 4 E. He goes to R. C. DOLLERCLUTCH C._ - -=Cor.= In compliance with your desire, I have brought her back and left -her on the door-step. - -=Dol.= You thundering blockhead! Why didn't you bring her up here? Why -the devil did you send her away in the first place? Here I'm losing all -this valuable time. Usher her up at once. - -=Cor.= I quicken! [=Exit= _CORIOLANUS, D. R. 4 E. DOLLERCLUTCH busies -himself among his papers._] - -=Dol.= Perhaps she's a fine rich lady, and I'll have a fat case. If -not, I'll have nothing to do with her. I'll hustle her off in short -order. I'll crush her with a look. - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, D. R. 4 E., bowing in HILDA._ - -=Dol.= [_Aside, looking at HILDA._] H'm! No money in her case. I'll -have nothing to do with it! - -=Cor.= [_At D. R. 4 E._] My mission I've fulfilled; your pleasure I -await. - -=Dol.= [_To CORIOLANUS._] Get out! Didn't I tell you not to let me be -disturbed before court? - -=Cor.= I'll make an honorable retreat. [=Exit= _D. R. 4 E._] - -=Hil.= [_C._] I beg your pardon, sir! Are you not Mr. Dollerclutch, the -lawyer? - -=Dol.= Now, ain't you ashamed of yourself hanging around a gentleman's -door and carrying on in such an outlandish manner, when I'm so busy, eh? - -=Hil.= I am very sorry, sir, but--but-- - -=Dol.= But what? - -=Hil.= Oh, sir! I--I-- - -=Dol.= It's no use! It'll cost you two hundred dollars to look at me. -Take my advice and go home and leave law alone. I dismiss the case. -I'll not charge you a cent for that advice. Don't you say another -word--good day! [_Waves his hand. He busies himself among his papers. -HILDA wrings her hands. After a pause._] Well, why don't you say -something? What's your name? - -=Hil.= Hilda Wallace, sir! - -=Dol.= Humph! Trying to raise a subscription for an able-bodied -invalid, I suppose? - -=Hil.= Oh, no, sir! I come to see if you could not help a poor girl out -of a sad trouble. - -=Dol.= [_Aside._] I thought so! Trying to work the sympathetic dodge. -[_To HILDA._] What! Do you want to get a divorce? - -=Hil.= No, sir! I came to see if you could find out who my parents are, -and, also, whether I am married or not. - -=Dol.= Lord, bless us! The girl must be crazy! - -=Hil.= [_At desk._] Oh, sir! just listen to my story, and I know that -you will be able to help me in this, my sore trouble. - -=Dol.= [_Crosses to R., pulls forward two chairs, and motions HILDA to -be seated._] Well, well! go on! [_Aside._] There's the morning's court -business, and not a thing done. [_HILDA sits L. C. DOLLERCLUTCH R. C._] - -=Hil.= I was brought up by a family named Wallace, who live in Norfolk, -Virginia, and I supposed that I was their daughter, until a discovery -I made two years ago convinced me that I was not. - -=Dol.= [_Getting interested._] And what discovery did you make? - -=Hil.= [_Unfolding a package._] I found this dress hidden away in one -of the bureau drawers. [_Hands it to him._] - -=Dol.= Lord, bless me! Why, it's a baby dress. - -=Hil.= Yes, sir! and when I made inquiries about it I learned that it -was one I wore when a child. - -=Dol.= Well, there was nothing strange about that? - -=Hil.= No, sir! But on examination, I found these initials, A. M., -which you see worked in it! - -=Dol.= Ah! yes! Precisely! - -=Hil.= And when I called their attention to it they seemed confused and -did not know what to reply. I kept the dress, determined to find out -more, if I could! - -=Dol.= And you did? - -=Hil.= No, sir! but I learned since that the man I married could unveil -the mystery which shrouds my birth. - -=Dol.= And won't he enlighten you? - -=Hil.= No, sir! all my attempts have proved futile. - -=Dol.= But did you not say that this man was your husband? - -=Hil.= Yes, sir! But he must have some object in keeping my identity -secret. - -=Dol.= But how did you become acquainted with this man, and how did you -come to marry him? - -=Hil.= He was a regular visitor at our home, and I noticed on many -occasions that he paid Mrs. Wallace money. However, I fell desperately -in love with him, and when he proposed that we get married, I, of -course, was only too happy to consent. - -=Dol.= And his name? - -=Hil.= Ralph Murdell! - -=Dol.= Ralph Murdell! Humph! I don't like the name--got a bad sound to -it. - -=Hil.= He took me to a little village in the suburbs about four miles -from Norfolk, where we were married in a little chapel by an old -country preacher. - -=Dol.= And you were happy, I suppose? - -=Hil.= Yes, until about two weeks later, when he was about to leave -me. He said he had to go North to attend to some business. I would not -listen to it, unless he took me with him. - -=Dol.= That's right, my girl! And he took you, of course? - -=Hil.= Yes; but it was on condition that I should keep the marriage a -secret, and not recognize him in the presence of others. - -=Dol.= And what the deuce was that for? - -=Hil.= He said his family were very proud, and he wanted to gain their -consent before he made our marriage public. - -=Dol.= Oh, the rascal! And you listened to him? - -=Hil.= Yes, sir! To my sorrow, I did. He recommended me to a young lady -who wanted a lady's maid. I accepted the position on his assurance that -he would soon claim me before the world as his wife. - -=Dol.= And who is this lady with whom you now are? - -=Hil.= Adrienne Lowville! - -=Dol.= What! The daughter of Wm. Lowville, who owns Beachwood, eighteen -miles from here, on the Essex road? - -=Hil.= Oh, yes, sir! Do you know him? - -=Dol.= Well, I'd like to know who don't! Got a railroad in each pocket. -But, about your husband--is he acquainted there? - -=Hil.= Alas! yes! He is a constant visitor, and I more than suspect -that his attentions to my mistress imply more than he wishes me to -believe. - -=Dol.= [_Throws baby dress on table, R. 3 E._] Oh! That's his game, is -it? A case of throwing you over for her, eh? - -=Hil.= I fear so, sir; for she is madly in love with him, and thinks -him a saint. When I called him to account for his actions, he laughed -at me. He then informed me that he would do as he pleased, and that I -was not his wife at all; that ours was a mock marriage. - -=Dol.= [_Jumps up._] The deuce he did! Oh, the villain, to take -advantage of a poor innocent girl. - -=Hil.= [_Rises._] Oh, sir! but it was legal--it-- - -=Dol.= [_DOLLERCLUTCH L. C., HILDA R. C._] Have you got your marriage -certificate? - -=Hil.= No, sir! I never thought of that, sir. - -=Dol.= Then, what proof have you? - -=Hil.= Alas, none! But, oh sir! can't you investigate it? There surely -must be a record kept of all marriages. Can't you get a copy of the -church register, where it must have been entered? - -=Dol.= That's so! I never thought of that! But, my dear girl, that will -be a difficult matter, now that the country is in a _furore_ and on the -verge of a civil war; and it will cost money to do it, my dear girl; -money. - -=Hil.= [_Crosses to desk L. 3 E._] Oh, sir! I thought of that! Here -are twelve dollars that I saved out of my scanty earnings. Won't it be -enough, sir? - -=Dol.= [_Up C._] Enough? Why, it wouldn't pay for dipping a pen into -the ink, to say nothing about the trouble of licking a postage stamp. - -=Hil.= [_Sobs._] What shall I do--what shall I do? - -=Dol.= [_Taking out handkerchief._] Take up that money and put it in -your pocket immediately! I'll not take a cent of it. I never was so -insulted in my life. [_Crosses to R._] - -=Hil.= [_C._] Oh, won't you help me out of my trouble? - -=Dol.= Help you? Of course I will! Who said I wouldn't? Do you think -I'll stand by and see an innocent girl wronged in this manner? No! I'll -see this thing through, if it costs me a fortune! Oh, the villain! -[_DOLLERCLUTCH at desk, HILDA at table R. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, D. R. 4 E., with lunch._ - -=Cor.= Your lunch, sir! [_Puts it on desk._] - -=Dol.= D--n the lunch! Get out! - -=Cor.= I quicken! [=Exit= _D. C. HILDA sobs. She picks up baby dress -from table._] - -=Dol.= [_Down C._] What are you crying about? - -=Hil.= I am so grateful to you, sir, for taking a poor girl's trouble -to heart. - -=Dol.= Now, don't you be deluding yourself with any such idea. This is -business, I tell you; business. What do you know about business, I'd -like to know? - -=Hil.= I beg your pardon, sir! - -=Dol.= Why do you come and arouse my sympathetic heart, and upset all -my court business? - -=Hil.= Can I do aught, sir? - -=Dol.= No--yes--that is--shut up! Give me that dress! Now, you go back -and don't let that husband of yours suspect anything. [_Puts on his -hat, etc. DOLLERCLUTCH at desk, HILDA C._] - -=Hil.= Are you going out, sir? - -=Dol.= Hold your tongue! This is the way I prepare myself for court -business; and there's my nice lunch, too! [_Stuffs baby dress in his -bosom, leaving a part sticking out._] Now, go home and don't bother me -till you hear from me. I'm going to take the first train for Norfolk! - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS at door C._ - -=Cor.= It's time to go to court! - -=Dol.= D--n the court! I'll see this thing through. [_He bolts for the -C. door and upsets CORIOLANUS in his haste to get out._ =Exit= _through -C. door._] - -=Cor.= The court is sitting! [_CORIOLANUS C., HILDA L. C. Whistle -scene._] - - - =Scene 2=: WOOD-PASS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF WILLIAM LOWVILLE'S - RESIDENCE AT BEACHWOOD. - - =Enter= _HENRY LOWVILLE, R. 2 E., with gun resting on arm._ - -=Hen.= [_Looking off L. E._] The guests are beginning to arrive, and -I suppose I must, as a member of the family, be on hand and help do -the honors of entertaining the motley crowd. [_Sighs._] Ah! how I hate -the hollow mockery of fashionable society--how I hate to mingle in the -giddy deception hidden under the guise of polite gentility--bah! - - =Enter= _REGINALD, L. 2 E._ - -=Reg.= Why, how now, Henry! One of your melancholy fits again? Ha! ha! -ha! [_Shakes hands._] - -=Hen.= Yes, confoundedly so! I've got the blues with a vengeance. - -=Reg.= Come, come, old fellow, shake off this feeling. Why, you look as -if you had buried your best friend. Come, have a weed! [_Offers segar -case._] Nothing like a smoke, you know, to calm a perturbed mind. - -=Hen.= [_Lights segar._] Yes, there is a certain soothing influence -about it; that's a fact. - -=Reg.= Ah! now you look more like yourself. But how is this--why are -you not at your post, doing the honors to the guests? - -=Hen.= Because I hate these empty shows. What are all these receptions -but one maze of dissipation, where everybody seems to outdo the other -in silliness? - -=Reg.= I agree with you there, Henry. There are many sins and much -hypocrisy and deceit practiced under the veil of studied politeness, -and the sacred bond of friendship becomes a mere matter of form to -further the ends of frivolous and sordid desires. - -=Hen.= And the women! All deception, heartless, fickle. Show me a woman -in this gilded age of fashion devoid of fashion's impress--devoid of-- - -=Reg.= Nay, Henry! You are prejudiced--all women are not so. There are -still many who possess all the noble attributes that Heaven instilled -in her heart, that make her all that is beautiful and endearing in the -eyes of a true man. - -=Hen.= Yes; but artificial show has supplanted her--I know not the -ideal. - -=Reg.= Aye! but I know one. - -=Hen.= And she is-- - -=Reg.= Your sister Adrienne! - -=Hen.= Oho! I understand. Ha! ha! ha! Well, well, there's my hand on -it. I give in. There is no one in the wide world that I would be more -pleased to call brother. - -=Reg.= [_Confused._] You misunderstand--you-- - -=Hen.= Well, well; so be it. But I had better go up to the mansion -and make the guests comfortable, and help Adrienne complete the -arrangements for the grand ball this evening. Will you come? [_Crosses -to L. REGINALD to R._] - -=Reg.= Not just at present. I want to have a little quiet stroll in -these grand old woods; besides, I want to finish my weed. - -=Hen.= Well, I'm off! [=Exit= _L. 2 E._] - -=Reg.= As good a fellow as ever lived; with a tinge of melancholy in -his make-up, and a little bitter against the female sex in general. -Heigho! Probably a victim of a heartless coquette. Hum! That awkward -slip of the tongue has betrayed me. He has discovered my feelings -toward Adrienne. [_Leans against tree, L. 2 E., in a study._] - - =Enter= _SAMMY DEWDROP and ADOLPHUS SOFTHEAD, R. 2 E. They do not - perceive REGINALD._ - -=Sammy.= [_C._] Hang it all if I don't think we've lost the way! -[_Looks around._] - -=Adolphus.= [_R. C._] Why didn't you listen to me and come by the -regular road? Oh, Sammy! What if night should overtake us? Oh! oh! -[_SAMMY scratches his head. REGINALD perceives them._] - -=Reg.= [_Aside._] Two big school-boys! - -=Sam.= Now, look a'here, Adolphus! How did I know we'd get in such a -pickle? [_Sees sign on tree R. F._] Hurrah! We're all right! Here's a -finger-post! [_SAMMY R. C. ADOLPHUS C. Reads_:] "Beware!" [_ADOLPHUS -jumps in terror._] "Do not disturb the deer." Oh, pshaw! What shall we -do? - -=Adol.= I wish I'd stayed home! - -=Sam.= It was all your fault that we came. You said there would be lots -of nice girls there, and we should be sure to fall in love with ever so -many. - -=Reg.= Ha! ha! ha! - -=Adol.= [_Scared._] Oh! oh! - -=Sam.= [_Clutches ADOLPHUS fearfully._] What was that? - -=Reg.= [_Comes forward, smiling. ADOLPHUS R. C. SAMMY C. REGINALD L. -C._] Gentlemen, you seem distressed. Can I serve you? - -=Sam.= [_Brightens up suddenly. To ADOLPHUS._] Oh! you coward, to get -frightened like that! Why can't you be brave like me? - -=Adol.= You were just as afraid as I was. - -=Reg.= [_Laughs._] Have a smoke? [_Offers cigar-case to SAMMY._] It -will help to quiet your nerves. - -=Adol.= [_To SAMMY, aside._] Oh, Lucifer! I never smoked in my life. - -=Sam.= Neither did I! But we must take one, you know; it isn't polite -to refuse--besides, all men smoke. - -=Adol.= Black as ink! Strong as old Nick, I bet. - -=Reg.= You seem to have lost your way. - -=Sam.= We were on our way to Holly Mansion, when we lost our way in -this confounded jungle. - -=Reg.= Ah! Then I can be of service to you. That is my destination, -also, and if agreeable, I shall be most happy to guide you. [_With mock -politeness. SAMMY and ADOLPHUS both try to shake hands with REGINALD at -once. They both speak together._] - -=Sam.= You're a trump. - -=Adol.= Put it there, old boy! - -=Reg.= This way, gentlemen! [=Exeunt=, _L. 2 E. Whistle scene._] - - - =Scene 3=: GARDEN ADJOINING WM. LOWVILLE'S MANSION. - - =Enter= _ANASTASIA MAITLAND, and CORIOLANUS with valise, L. 2 E._ - -=Anastasia.= Well, I never! Not a soul about to receive me. And after -all that jaunt from the station, too. I declare it's an outrage. They -could have sent their carriage to the station for me, to say the least. -If there was somebody about, I should feel inclined to faint. [_Sits on -bench, L. 3 E._] Coriolanus! - -=Cor.= [_At R. C. Bows stiffly._] Your pleasure, madam! - -=Anas.= Get my smelling-bottle out of the valise--be quick! - -=Cor.= [_Puts down valise._] I quicken! - -=Anas.= And there's Reginald; why was he not at the station? He knew -I was coming. [_CORIOLANUS hands smelling-bottle._] Won't I give him -a piece of my mind! [_Music heard at distance._] Well, I declare. -[_Rises._] If they haven't commenced dancing already! Coriolanus, go at -once and announce my arrival. - -=Cor.= Madam, I obey! I will go in advance and have the servants to -announce us. [=Exit= _R. 2 E._] - -=Anas.= Announce _us_! Did I ever see such impudence--announce _us_! -Just as if _he_, a common servant, was such a distinguished personage -as I am. Oh! it's disgusting! [=Exit= _R. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE and HILDA, R. 4 E._ - -=Adrienne.= Did you arrange the flowers on the table, as I desired? - -=Hil.= Yes, my lady! - -=Adri.= [_Sits on bench, R. 3 E._] What a beautiful evening! All nature -seems hushed, as if it had gone to sleep on the broad bosom of the day. -[_Sighs._] Hilda, were you ever in love? - -=Hil.= [_Standing L. of bench._] Yes--no--that is, I--I-- - -=Adri.= [_Laughs._] Why, you silly little goose. You act as if it were -a crime to be in love. You tremble like a leaf. - -=Hil.= I--I am cold. The night air is chilly. If you'll excuse me, I -will go in and get a shawl. - -=Adri.= Oh, certainly. [_HILDA is about to go._] Hilda, when you go -in, peep into the parlor and see if Ralph--I mean, Mr. Murdell, has -arrived. - -=Hil.= Yes, madam! [_R. C. Aside._] She loves him; she cannot hide it. -[=Exit= _R. 3 E._] - -=Adri.= He is late! What can detain him? He begged for the honor of the -first dance. The third has already been danced and he is not here. Oh! -how slowly the minutes glide. Ah! he comes at last. - - =Enter= _RALPH, L. 2 E._ - -=Ralph.= [_L. of bench._] This is an unexpected pleasure! - -=Adri.= Truant sir! This is punctuality! - -=Ralph.= Allow me to offer my humblest apologies for my offense, and if -a life's devotion could repay it, command me. - -=Adri.= Still the disappointment would remain. - -=Ralph.= Then you were disappointed, Miss Lowville? Adrienne! [_Takes -her hand._] - -=Adri.= Certainly! [_Withdraws her hand._] Why shouldn't I be when I -was debarred from the pleasure of the first dance, simply because it -was pledged to one who did not fulfill his promise? [_Music heard._] -Hark! That's the quadrille I have given to Mr. Maitland. [_About to go -to R._] - -=Ralph.= [_Takes her hand and gently forces her to bench._] Nay, -Adrienne! Do not go. - -=Adri.= And would you have me be a truant like you? [_They sit._] - -=Ralph.= Yes, because I cannot let you go. Adrienne, long have I sought -for such an opportunity [=Enter= _HILDA R. 4 E._] to pour into your -ears the passion that is consuming me. - -=Adri.= Ralph, hush! Some one approaches. - -=Hil.= [_Comes forward C._] Madam! Mr. Maitland was inquiring for you -for this quadrille. - -=Adri.= I almost forgot it. [_Aside to RALPH._] I'll be back presently. -[_To HILDA._] Come, Hilda! [_Both_ =Exeunt= _R. 2 E. RALPH_ =Exits= _L. -2 E._] - - =Enter= _SAMMY and ADOLPHUS, L. 2 E._ - -=Sam.= [_Looking after the girls._] Did you see her? Oh, what a -heavenly being! My heart goes after her, and I guess I'll follow my -heart. [_About to rush after. ADOLPHUS pulls him back._] - -=Adol.= No you don't! If anybody goes, it's me. [_About to go. SAMMY -pulls him back._] - -=Sam.= I want to pour my heart in her ear! - -=Adol.= And I want to let my soul mingle with hers! - -=Sam.= Well, we can't both make love to her at once. I have it! We'll -draw lots! [_Pulls matches from pocket._] Who draws the short stick -proposes first, and if she refuses the short stick then the long stick -will have a chance. - -=Adol.= Oh, Sammy! What a head you've got. - -=Sam= [_Holds sticks towards ADOLPHUS._] Draw! [_ADOLPHUS draws long -stick._] - -=Adol.= Just my luck! - -=Sam.= Ah! Now, Dolphy, I'll show you how to do it. Hush! She's coming -back! Now you hide behind there. [_Pointing. ADOLPHUS hides behind -flower urn, C._] - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE, R. 2 E. SAMMY falls on his knee._ - -=Sam.= Most adorable angel, whose liquid eyes do penetrate the inmost -depths of my entranced soul, listen to one who has loved you from his -childhood. Fill me with ecstasy by the avowal from thy honeyed lips -that you will be forever mine. - -=Adri.= [_Laughs heartily._] Rise, you foolish boy, and go home and -tell your mother to put a mustard draft on your feet and give you a -dose of paregoric. - -=Sam.= [_Gets up and scratches his head._] Squashed, by Jupiter! [_He -walks to L._] - -=Adri.= [_R. Aside._] Where is Ralph, I wonder! - -=Adol.= [_Coming forward, C. To SAMMY._] Go home, you foolish boy, and -get some paregoric and let Adolphus take off the prize. [_ADRIENNE -turns. ADOLPHUS falls on his knee._] - -=Adri.= Another proposal? - -=Adol.= Fairest of the fair and fairer yet, take this my heart and do -with it what you like. It's yours forevermore. [=Enter= _REGINALD, -R. 2 E., who takes ADRIENNE'S place. ADRIENNE R., REGINALD R. C., -ADOLPHUS C., SAMMY L._] Play with it, use it for a foot-ball--do -with it what you like, as long as you take your true Adolphus with -it. My father owns sixty-eight brick houses, twenty race horses, -three hundred slaves, and one-quarter of an acre of good farming -land--besides--[_Discovers he is talking to REGINALD._] The devil! -[_Starts and rushes off L. 2 E. SAMMY runs after him._] - -=Sam.= Who had better take paregoric now? [=Exit= _L. 2 E. ADRIENNE and -REGINALD laugh._] - -=Reg.= Two foolish, overgrown boys, whose mental powers have not kept -pace with their physical. Pray be seated, Miss Lowville. [_ADRIENNE -sits, bench R. 3 E. REGINALD remains standing._] - -=Adri.= Mr. Maitland, I owe you an apology. I promised you a quadrille, -but I regret having disappointed you. - -=Reg.= Don't mention it. I willingly submit to the disappointment, -since it has afforded me the pleasure of enjoying a few moments' quiet -conversation with one whose amiable disposition and lofty sentiments -command my profoundest respect and admiration. - -=Adri.= You flatter me, sir! - -=Reg.= Nay, Miss Lowville, believe me, I am sincere. I have watched -the development of noble traits, the unfolding of a noble character -prompted by a pure and loving heart; the expression of high and lofty -thought--all of which impressions have sunk so deeply into my being -that they seem a part of myself. Miss Lowville, I use no honeyed words, -but I offer you the heart and hand of an honest man, who will love, -honor and shield you through all the walks of life. - -=Adri.= [_Rises._] Mr. Maitland, you honor me with the offer of such a -noble heart as yours, and could I accept it, I should be proud to wear -it in my bosom. Such noble love requires a noble love in return. But I -cannot. - -=Reg.= Perhaps--in time-- - -=Adri.= Alas! I cannot give you hope. But friends we shall ever be. -[_REGINALD turns away._] Will you accept the hand of friendship? - -=Reg.= Yes! Yes! Pardon me! Friends we shall always be. [=Exit= -_ADRIENNE, R. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, R. 4 E._ - -=Cor.= Sir Reginald, your honored aunt awaits your coming in the -conservatory. - -=Reg.= I will attend her immediately. [=Exit= _REGINALD, R. 2 E._] - -=Cor.= [_Coming down C._] Coriolanus, I am proud of you--you have -acquitted yourself nobly--you have made an impression upon her maiden -heart, I feel assured. She recognizes the true nobility that is hidden -under the garb of the menial. How I hate these clothes! Oh! Anastasia, -thou knowest true worth when thou see'st it. [_Walks to right._] - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, L. 4 E. Comes down C._ - -=Dol.= Well, I've got here at last, and if I can only manage -to meet Hilda. But how shall I contrive to see her? [_Looks around -and sees CORIOLANUS._] Ah! there's one of the servants! I'll question -him. [_To CORIOLANUS._] Hey, there, you clown! Come here. [_CORIOLANUS -turns._] Coriolanus, by all that is wonderful. Well, this is -particularly gratifying. But, how is it that I find you here? Have you -left the other place? - -=Cor.= I am a visitor here! I have escorted Miss Maitland to the grand -reception. - -=Dol.= Oh! I thought you were going to say you owned this place. -However, you are just the person to do me a little service. Run to the -mansion and tell Miss Lowville's maid to step out here a moment, that -a gentleman wishes to speak to her. [_CORIOLANUS about to go in high -dudgeon._] Hold on! That won't do--it will attract attention--a few -lines will be better. [_Pulls out tablet and writes._] - -=Cor.= [_Aside._] I'm no common servant! Such impudence, to ask a -gentleman like me. No, thank you! [=Exit= _in high dudgeon, R. 2 E._] - -=Dol.= There, I guess that will do! [_Folding up note._] - - =Enter= _ANASTASIA, R. 2 E._ - -=Dol.= Here, you clown, take this note and mind-- - -=Anas.= Sir! - -=Dol.= The devil! [_Aside._] Where did that infernal rascal get to! -[_To ANASTASIA._] I beg a million pardons, madam! [_Aside._] Confound -that rascal! [_To ANASTASIA._] Pray pardon me, madam--a mistake, I -assure you--mistook you for another. - -=Anas.= Oh! - -=Dol.= [_L. Aside._] What an amiable creature! - -=Anas.= [_R. Aside._] What a charming personage, and so very -polite--Hem! - -=Dol.= Did you speak, madam? - -=Anas.= Such a beautiful evening! - - =Enter= _RALPH, L. 4 E. He pauses at C._ - -=Dol.= Why, yes! and doubly so since the arrival of such charming -simplicity. - -=Ralph.= Ha! ha! ha! [_Comes down C. ANASTASIA and DOLLERCLUTCH are -startled. ANASTASIA_ =Exits= _R. 2 E., with great dignity._] - -=Dol.= [_L._] Were you laughing at me, sir? - -=Ralph.= Yes! at the picture of charming simplicity. Ha! ha! ha! - -=Dol.= Hem! perhaps your name is Paul Pry? - -=Ralph.= Perhaps it is! [_With a shrug._] If you have any grievance, -there's my card. [_Hands him card, and is about to go._] - -=Dol.= [_Looks at card. Aside._] Ralph Murdell?--the devil! [_To -RALPH._] Well, I thought you were either a Paul Pry or a villainous -rascal! - -=Ralph.= [_Turns suddenly._] What did you say? - -=Dol.= I say we are often mistaken. [_Crosses to R. Aside._] I'll keep -my eyes on you, my fine bird. [=Exit= _R. 2 E._] - -=Ralph.= [_Looking around._] Where is Hilda? I did not like the look in -her eye! I must be careful, or she will upset all my plans. She comes. - - =Enter= _HILDA, R. 2 E._ - -=Ralph.= You are late! - -=Hil.= I am, sir! but not too late for what I have to say. Think you I -will stand calmly by and witness your villainy and allow you to deceive -another as you have basely deceived me? No! If I am not your wife in -law, I am in the sight of Heaven, and I dare you to make another victim. - -=Ralph.= [_L., aside._] I must pacify her somehow. [_To HILDA._] Hilda! -[_Takes her hand and leads her to bench L. 3 E._ =Enter= _ADRIENNE in -background R. 5 E. She listens behind statue L. 4 E._] I have repented -saying those harsh words. I did not mean it. It was in anger I spoke. - -=Hil.= Oh, Ralph! if I could only believe you. - -=Ralph.= You can; and if you could but look into my heart you would -know that you, and you only, are the one for whom its pulses beat. - - =Enter= _REGINALD and ANASTASIA R. 2 E. ADRIENNE comes down C. - majestically. RALPH and HILDA rise. ANASTASIA R., REGINALD R. C., - ADRIENNE C., RALPH L. C., HILDA L._ - -=Adri.= Reginald Maitland, you offered me your heart and hand and I -refused. I have reconsidered my refusal. If you still honor me with the -offer, I accept. [=Tableau.= =Enter= _all quickly. DOLLERCLUTCH, R. 3 -E. CORIOLANUS, R. 2 E. SAMMY and ADOLPHUS, L. 3 E. HILDA and ANASTASIA -faint. ANASTASIA falls into the arms of DOLLERCLUTCH. CORIOLANUS looks -on with envy. SAMMY and ADOLPHUS try to support HILDA. Comic business. -REGINALD accepts ADRIENNE'S hand eagerly. ADRIENNE, with heaving bosom, -majestically defiant to RALPH. RALPH disconcerted._] - - REG. ADRI. - - DOLLER. RALPH. - - ANAS. SAM., ADOL. - - CORIO. HILDA. - - _R._ _L._ - _C._ - - - =Quick Curtain.= - - - - -Act II. - - - =Scene 1=: SITTING ROOM OF THE MAITLAND COTTAGE. - - _ANASTASIA discovered knitting, seated at table, L. C. CORIOLANUS - at door, R. 3 E._ - -=Anas.= Coriolanus, have you ordered the carriage to the station? - -=Corio.= Your orders have been obeyed, madam! [_With bow. Crosses to -C._] - -=Anas.= Then everything is in readiness for the reception of the bride -and groom. You may retire, Coriolanus, and be pleased to announce them -as soon as they arrive. - -=Corio.= I will hold myself in readiness to gratify your desires. -[_Going, aside._] The darling creature! She cannot trust her feelings -when alone in my presence. Every look, every action, speak of the great -admiration she has for me. - -=Anas.= Well! [_Impatiently._] Will you go? - -=Corio.= I quicken! [=Exit= _D. R. 3 E._] - -=Anas.= The stupid dolt, with his stuck-up manners. I hate him! I -wonder whether Mary has attended to the room. [_Goes to door, L. 2 -E., and calls._] Mary! Mary! [_MARY answers off entrance_, "Ma'am."] -Have you thoroughly aired Reginald's apartments? [_MARY, as before_, -"Yes, Ma'am." _ANASTASIA closes door._] So! Reginald and his bride will -soon be here, and they will find everything well regulated, thanks to -my personal supervision. I can't say that I like Reginald's choice. -The bold thing, to throw herself upon a man like that, and before -everybody, too! It's outrageous--not a bit of maidenly modesty--I shall -hate her, I know I shall. And Reginald was so pleased to accept the -proud thing. What fools men are! Well, well; I hope the dear boy will -not be disappointed in her and live unhappily. [_She sighs heavily -and resumes knitting._] What a strange thing love is, to be sure. Who -could that stranger have been I met in the garden--such a splendid man! -So full of good sense! So polite! Oh, perfectly lovely! I could fall -in love with such a dear man. [=Enter= _MORRIS MAITLAND, D. R. 2 E._] -I----Morris! - -=Mor.= [_C._] Not yet arrived? H'm! The train must be late. Has the -carriage gone? - -=Anas.= Yes, brother! I gave Coriolanus strict orders to attend to it! - -=Mor.= Well, I suppose they will get here in good time. But it's -getting late--past nine o'clock. [_At table, L. C._] Sister, you will -do all in your power to make Reginald's wife comfortable and receive -her with the respect due the wife of my honored son. - -=Anas.= I will do my part, Morris, provided she does hers. But I'm -afraid Reginald has made a poor choice. - -=Mor.= Sister, you are prejudiced. Reginald is an honest, sensible and -dutiful son. Although her connections are very aristocratic, more so, -in fact, than I could cordially approve, yet, I have faith in him to -believe that his choice has been wise, and that she will prove an honor -to my son and the pride of his father's heart. - -=Anas.= Well, I have no more to say. I hope that she will fulfill your -expectations. - -=Mor.= She is now my daughter and shall receive a hearty welcome into -the bosom of our family. - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, D. R. 3 E._ - -=Corio.= Reginald and Adrienne Maitland! [_MORRIS at L. C.; ANASTASIA -rises and goes to fireplace, L. 3 E._] - - =Enter= _REGINALD, ADRIENNE and HILDA, D. R. 3 E. HILDA, R., - ADRIENNE, R. C., REGINALD, C., MORRIS, L. C., ANASTASIA, L._ - -=Mor.= [_Embracing REGINALD._] My son! welcome to your paternal home. - -=Reg.= Father, allow me to bring to you a daughter, my wife. [_Leads -her to him, then crosses to shake hands with ANASTASIA._] - -=Mor.= My daughter, welcome to our humble home--receive the blessing -of-- - -=Adri.= [_Coldly._] Thanks! You honor me. [_Crosses to L._] Reginald, -[_wearily_] I am tired. [_MORRIS retreats painfully. ANASTASIA -exchanges looks with him and draws herself loftily erect._] - -=Reg.= Adrienne, my aunt--Miss Maitland. - -=Adri.= [_Bows haughtily._] We've met before. [_To REGINALD._] Conduct -me to my room. [_REGINALD bows._ =Exeunt= _ADRIENNE and REGINALD, D. -L. 2 E. HILDA follows with wraps, etc. MORRIS crosses to R. Sinks in -armchair R. of table._] - -=Anas.= H'm! I thought so! An iceberg. Proud and dignified. Above such -humble surroundings! Brother! - -=Mor.= My son! my son! - -=Anas.= Did I not tell you? Perhaps you'll give me credit in the future -for a little sense. - -=Mor.= [_Sternly._] Anastasia! Leave me. - -=Anas.= Well, you needn't bite my head off because I spoke the truth. -[=Exit= _in dudgeon, D. R. 3 E._] - -=Mor.= My fondest expectations blighted. Heaven grant they will be -happy! but--[_shakes his head_] I doubt it--I doubt it. - - =Enter= _REGINALD, D. L. 2 E. He approaches table slowly. MORRIS - rises and turns away._ - -=Reg.= Father! - -=Mor.= [_Turns suddenly and embraces him._] Oh, my son! I had such -hopes for your future happiness! But alas! - -=Reg.= Why, father, can you for a moment doubt it? [_MORRIS shakes his -head._] Adrienne is fatigued--worn out--weary from travel. Our journey -has been extensive. In the morning she will be herself again. - -=Mor.= I sincerely hope so, my son! but I fear you have made a great -mistake. You may have loved well, but I fear too unwisely. - -=Reg.= Father, you are mistaken in Adrienne. She is all that is -noble--as free from deceit and the taint of the world as a child -unborn. No, no, father! she is all that an honorable man could wish. - -=Mor.= For your sake, I wish I could think as you do, but I cannot. Did -she love you as a wife should, she would honor her husband so much as -to show her respect, at least, to his father. - -=Reg.= You had a right to expect a warmer acknowledgment of your -welcome. But consider her fatigue. Time will command the respect and -love due her husband's father. - -=Mor.= Love is a spontaneous outburst of the heart. It is not of -gradual growth. It takes not time to discover true innate worth in a -person. Love detects it at a glance, and time only confirms the first -impression. My son, is she all that you desire? - -=Reg.= Yes, father, all. - -=Mor.= And are you sure that she loves you? - -=Reg.= [_Confused._] Yes, father--that is--I-- - -=Mor.= Why this confusion? - -=Reg.= I think she does. - -=Mor.= Think? Why, did she not tell you as much? - -=Reg.= Father, we will not discuss this subject any further. Suffice it -to say that she is my wife, and I have sworn to love and honor her till -death do us part, and I will do my duty, sir! - -=Mor.= So be it, my son! and may Providence, who watches over us all, -grant you a happy life. Heaven bless you, my son! [_Clock strikes._] -The hour for retiring is at hand. You will call your wife to attend our -usual family devotion in the library ere retiring for the night. - -=Reg.= I attend your pleasure! [=Exit= _D. L. 2 E. MORRIS strikes bell -on table._] - - =Enter= _ANASTASIA, followed by CORIOLANUS, D. R. 3 E. CORIOLANUS - R., ANASTASIA C., MORRIS L._ - -=Anas.= Shall I call Reginald's wife? - -=Mor.= Reginald has gone to do so. - -=Anas.= Oh! - -=Mor.= Please retire to the library; I will follow shortly. [=Exit= -_ANASTASIA, followed by CORIOLANUS, D. R. 3 E._] - - =Enter= _REGINALD, D. L. 2 E. MORRIS crosses to R. C._ - -=Reg.= [_L. C._] Father, Adrienne wishes to be excused; she is too -tired! - -=Mor.= My son, you know the laws of this house. All the members of the -family must attend family prayer. This law has ever been kept inviolate -by my ancestors, and it shall not be broken in this instance. You will -inform your wife that I insist upon her attendance. [=Exit= _REGINALD -D. L. 2 E. MORRIS walks the floor._] - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE quickly, D. L. 2 E., followed by REGINALD. She - crosses to table, L. C. MORRIS R. C._ - -=Adri.= Sir, in answer to your request, I asked to be excused; -nevertheless, you insist upon a sacrifice of my own inclinations and -desires. In this matter, I wish to inform you, I will suit my own -pleasure. Good-night, sir! [_Going._] - -=Mor.= Madam, I respect your desires, and as the wife of my son, I -honor you. But there are certain rules in this household from which -there is no departure, and this is one. From time immemorial has this -custom been a law at our fireside. As you are now a member of our -family, I ask of you, [_ADRIENNE turns away_] nay, I beg of you, be not -the first to violate this rule. - -=Adri.= [_Haughtily._] I refuse to comply! - -=Mor.= [_Sternly._] Then, madam, you compel me to assert my authority. -As the master of this house, I insist upon your attendance at family -prayer! - -=Adri.= [_Drawing herself erect._] Sir! - -=Reg.= [_At fire-place._] Father! - -=Mor.= Nay! I command you! - -=Adri.= [_To REGINALD._] Will you stand by and allow this indignity? - -=Reg.= Adrienne--I-- - -=Mor.= [_Crosses to D. R. 3 E._] Enough! I await your presence in the -library. [=Exit= _D. R. 3 E. ADRIENNE sinks into chair on R. of table. -REGINALD in a pleading attitude. Whistle scene._] - - - =Scene 2=: A STREET IN 1ST GROOVES. - - =Enter= RALPH, _L. 1 E._ - -=Ralph.= Confound it, I cannot bear it any longer. This wandering -around, nursing my wrath, is becoming unendurable. After having won -her love, to be snatched from me by that infernal Maitland--curse -him!--and all through that she-devil, Hilda--curse them both! Oh! I -could tear them to pieces! - - =Enter= _HENRY, R. 1 E., in officer's uniform with paper in hand. - RALPH turns away._ - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Ralph Murdell! I never liked the looks of that man. -[_To RALPH._] Hello! Lost your tongue? [_R. C._] - -=Ralph.= [_C._] No! but I lost something else! - -=Hen.= Lost a love, perhaps? - -=Ralph.= No! I've lost my temper! - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Was spooney on Adrienne! [_To RALPH._] Well, I'm glad -you lost it! - -=Ralph.= Glad I lost what? - -=Hen.= Your temper. - -=Ralph.= Oh! I didn't understand. - -=Hen.= Why, if you _lost_ your temper, you are well rid of it, and -ought to be jolly. But you look as if you had it still. Ha! ha! ha! - -=Ralph.= Confound your jokes; I'm in no humor for levity. - -=Hen.= No, I guess not. But where have you kept yourself buried? I have -not seen you since my sister's Grand Ball. I suppose you know she's -married to Maitland? - -=Ralph.= Yes! yes! I wish her much joy. What are you doing in that -uniform? - -=Hen.= Oh! I've enlisted in the army and was made a recruiting officer. -There is going to be a hot time. The rebels have taken possession of -all the prominent military stations in the South. And when Lincoln -made a call for three hundred thousand volunteers, I could not resist -the desire to do my duty and help preserve the Union. Besides, I was -getting tired of the lazy, drone-like life of society. - -=Ralph.= And are you seeking volunteers? - -=Hen.= Yes; besides, I am looking up a lot of individuals whose names I -have here. - -=Ralph.= Volunteers? - -=Hen.= No! The President has ordered a draft to be made for men, and I -am on the look-out for some. - -=Ralph.= Have you got me down in the draft? - -=Hen.= No! You are one of the lucky ones! - -=Ralph.= Indeed! But it would have pleased me if you had. Still, you -can accept me as a volunteer. - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] H'm! his disappointment has made him desperate. [_To -RALPH._] You surprise me, Murdell--you have more patriotism than I gave -you credit for. - -=Ralph.= This sort of life is too tame for me. I long for excitement! - -=Hen.= [_Hands him paper and pencil._] You will please sign here! - -=Ralph.= [_Signs paper._] And when shall I report for duty? - -=Hen.= To-morrow morning at ten o'clock, at headquarters. - -=Ralph.= All right! I'll go and make the necessary preparations. I -shall be on hand. [=Exit= _R. 1 E._] - -=Hen.= [_Crosses to L._] I'm glad Adrienne did not marry that chap, for -I did think that she thought a great deal of him. But you can never -tell anything about women. They never do what you think they will. -However, I am more than pleased that things have turned out as they -did. A better or truer man never lived than Reginald Maitland. - - =Enter= _SAMMY and ADOLPHUS arm in arm, R. 1 E. They do not - perceive HENRY._ - -=Sam.= I for one am getting discouraged. I've proposed to twenty-three -women in two weeks and been rejected twenty-three times. [_HENRY -examines paper._] - -=Adol.= And I've been rejected as many times as I've proposed. If I -only had the courage I'd drown myself. - -=Sam.= And if I only had the chance I'd enlist. But come, let us drown -our troubles in a glass of soda water. [_Going towards L. 1 E._] - -=Hen.= Halt! [_SAMMY and ADOLPHUS clutch each other in terror._] - - =Sam.= } Oh! Oh! [_ADOLPHUS and SAMMY C. HENRY L._] - =Adol.= } - -=Hen.= [_To SAMMY._] Your name! - -=Sam.= Sammy Dewdrop! - -=Hen.= Right! [_To ADOLPHUS._] And yours? - -=Adol.= Adolphus Softhead! - -=Hen.= Right again! Gentlemen, I am happy to inform you that you have -been drafted! [_SAMMY and ADOLPHUS collapse, terror-stricken._] - -=Adol.= Oh! I shall die! - -=Sam.= [_Trying to brace up, but shaking like a leaf._] Why don't you -take it bravely like me? [_To ADOLPHUS._] - -=Adol.= I can't. I'll never come back alive--I know I shan't. - -=Sam.= [_Brightening up suddenly._] I have it. Happy thought. [_To -HENRY._] But they won't take me--I am in the last stage of consumption. -[_Coughs._] And they don't take consumptives. - -=Adol.= [_Eagerly._] And I have got--[_Beckons HENRY to come nearer--he -whispers in his ear._] - -=Hen.= Very well, gentlemen. If that is so, you are exempt. [_SAMMY and -ADOLPHUS elated, about to go._] Halt! You will first accompany me to -headquarters, where you will be examined by the doctor; and then, if -you are in the condition you say you are, you will be allowed to go. -[_SAMMY and ADOLPHUS get weak in the knees._] - -=Sam.= [_To ADOLPHUS._] It's no use, Dolphy, the jig's up! - -=Adol.= Why was I born? - -=Hen.= About face! Forward, march. [=Exeunt= _all L. 1 E. Whistle -scene._] - - - =Scene 3=: OUTSIDE OF THE MAITLAND COTTAGE. - - =Enter= _HILDA, L. 2 E._ - -=Hil.= Oh! what shall I do! my mistress is so unhappy. She is pining -away day by day, and all for love for that worthless villain, Ralph. -Oh, if I could only unburden my heart to her and tell her all! If she -only knew how base he is she would not grieve so. Sometimes, when I -see her silent despair, I feel tempted to tell her all. But I promised -to keep silent until I heard from Mr. Dollerclutch. I fear he also has -deserted me. Here comes my mistress! I will avoid her! I cannot witness -her misery--my heart goes out to her. [=Exit= _R. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE, L. 2 E. She is very pale. Sits on bench R. C._ - -=Adri.= When will this torture end? Could I but recall the fatal words -that doomed me to a loveless life! I can only blame my impulsive -nature. I knew not what I did--I was mad--and I must suffer the bitter -consequences. Oh, cruel, cruel fate! [_Her head sinks on her arm, which -is resting on back of bench._] - - =Enter= _MORRIS from cottage on L._ - -=Mor.= [_At L. C._] Madam! - -=Adri.= [_Starts and rises haughtily._] Your pleasure, sir! - -=Mor.= There is a matter I wish to speak to you about. - -=Adri.= Proceed, sir! - -=Mor.= It is about my son. [_ADRIENNE braces herself._] Until your -advent into our family all was peace and sunshine; but now all is -mystery and clouds. And you, madam, are the cause of this condition of -affairs. [_ADRIENNE presses her hand to her heart._] I speak in behalf -of my son. Since his marriage to you I have noted a change in him. -There is something weighing heavily on his mind. - -=Adri.= And has _he_ sent you to plead his cause? - -=Mor.= No, madam! He has defended you in every particular; he has tried -to hide the true state of affairs. His sense of honor is so high that -he would not listen to a word against your action. His vow at the altar -is sacred to him; he would suffer anything without a murmur, and he -will ever defend his wife from the sneers of the world. - -=Adri.= Will you enlighten me, sir, as to the nature of my offense? - -=Mor.= You have destroyed the happiness of my son's life. He cannot -hide the disappointment of his honest heart from the searching gaze of -a father. - -=Adri.= Sir! It is best that we understand each other. I decline -further to listen to your upbraidings. You have no right to question -my actions. I forbid you ever to broach this subject again. The die is -cast. I know my duty as a wife; and to my husband, and to him alone, -will I hold myself accountable for my actions. [=Exit= _majestically L. -2 E. MORRIS looks after her._] - - =Enter= _ANASTASIA, R. 2 E._ - -=Anas.= Brother Morris, I'll not put up with it any longer. Things are -getting to be in a pretty strait when a person of my standing must -submit to such snubbing--yes, brother, I repeat, _snubbing_. - -=Mor.= Don't bother me! [=Exit= _into cottage._] - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, gate C._ - -=Anas.= [_Looking after MORRIS, angrily._] Well, I never! another snub! - -=Dol.= [_Down R._] Ahem! - -=Anas.= [_Turns suddenly._] There's that sweet man again. [_She affects -shyness._] - -=Dol.= I beg your pardon, madam! but allow me to express my pleasure in -being so fortunate as to meet your lovely self under such auspicious -circumstances. - -=Anas.= You flatter me! - -=Dol.= By no means, madam!--by no means. That is something I would not -be guilty of. What I said came from the heart, madam--from the heart! -Do you understand? - -=Anas.= I think I do, sir! [_Aside._] Perfectly captivating! - -=Dol.= Allow me to conduct you to a seat, you are tired standing. [_He -leads her to bench R. C. They sit at each end of bench and gradually -move up closer to each other during the subsequent dialogue. Comic -business._] - -=Anas.= [_Aside._] I believe he is going to propose! If he does, I'll -accept him on the instant. - -=Dol.= [_Fidgeting._] Madam, I--I--really I have not the pleasure of -your name. - -=Anas.= Anastasia Maitland, sir! - -=Dol.= Anastasia! What a beautiful name! - -=Anas.= Thank you! - -=Dol.= And so appropriate to your charming self. It will always remind -me of an angel. - -=Anas.= Did you ever see an angel? - -=Dol.= Yes, many a one--but they were all painted! - -=Anas.= Oh! But I really forgot what you said your name was! - -=Dol.= George Washington Dollerclutch, at your service, madam! You may -call me Father of my Country Dollerclutch for short. - -=Anas.= Such a grand name! It is so poetical! - -=Dol.= [_Nudges up closer._] Ahem! - -=Anas.= [_Aside._] The declaration is coming! I will fall in his arms -as soon as he makes it. - -=Dol.= Madam--I--I--[_Pulls out baby dress instead of handkerchief and -wipes his face._] - -=Anas.= My heart goes pitti-di-pat! [_Sees baby dress._] Oh! [_She -turns away._] - -=Dol.= [_Notices it for the first time. Aside._] Confound it! I thought -I had my handkerchief. [_To ANASTASIA._] I beg your pardon, madam! -[_Puts it away and gets his handkerchief. ANASTASIA smiles sweetly and -bows her head._] Ahem! as I was going to say-- - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, L. 2 E._ - -=Dol.= You are--you are--[_Sees CORIOLANUS._] The devil! [_Starts -up. CORIOLANUS holds himself proudly erect. ANASTASIA_ =Exits= _with -dignity into cottage._] - -=Cor.= [_Aside._] A rival? - -=Dol.= Playing the eavesdropper, eh! [_Aside._] I'll bounce the rascal! -[_Leaps upon him suddenly and runs him off R. 2 E._] I'll teach you -better manners. [_Walks down stage._] - - =Enter= _HILDA, R. 2 E._ - -=Dol.= Don't come back or I'll--[_Sees HILDA._] Oh! - -=Hil.= [_Comes forward quickly._] Oh, sir! You have come at last. What -news have you--is it good or bad? - -=Dol.= My dear child, I have both good and bad. I have searched the -church register, but found no record of the marriage. - -=Hil.= Alas! Then I have no hope. [_Sobs._] - -=Dol.= [_Pulls out handkerchief._] Now don't you cry--if you do I'll -throw up the case. [_She continues to sob._] Didn't I tell you my news -was both good and bad? - -=Hil.= [_Looks up hopefully._] Yes! Yes! - -=Dol.= But I found that about the time you were married a leaf was torn -out--and I'll stake my life that it was the record of your marriage. - -=Hil.= But who could have done such a thing? - -=Dol.= I strongly suspect that infernal villain of a husband of yours, -to hide the evidence of your marriage to him! - -=Hil.= Then I am lost! for he surely must have destroyed it. Oh, what -shall I do--what shall I do! - -=Dol.= Shut up! If you get me all excited, I'll have nothing to do -with it. I don't believe he has destroyed it at all, but has it in his -possession. I'm going to do a little detective work, and I warrant you -that I'll spare no money to gain my point. I said I'd see this thing -through, and hang me if I don't go my length in it. - -=Hil.= Oh, thank you, sir! - -=Dol.= Now listen to my plan. [_Noise heard, L. 2 E._] - -=Hil.= Some one approaches! Let us walk on a piece, where there is no -danger of being overheard. [=Exeunt= _HILDA and DOLLERCLUTCH, R. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _ANASTASIA, L. 2 E., with letter in hand._ - -=Anas.= [_Looks around._] I have written a few lines to the dear man, -just to encourage him a bit--he seemed so confused. I will leave it -here on this bench. [_Lays it on bench R. C._] He will surely come back -and find it. George Washington Dollerclutch! Oh! he must be a brave man -to have such a grand name! [_Noise heard, R. 2 E._] I hear footsteps! -It must be he returning--I'll retire for a few moments. [=Exit= _L. 2 -E._] - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, R. 2 E._ - -=Cor.= How dare he lay violent hands upon me--a gentleman of nobility! -I cannot suffer such indignity to pass unnoticed. [_Sees letter on -bench._] What's this! a letter?--and her handwriting, too! [_Reads._] -"To one I love"--hem! that's me! [_Opens it--reads._] "Thou adorable -one with the brave sounding name,"--she likes my name! "Ever since -our first meeting have you made the profoundest impression upon my -heart."--I knew it! "Maidenly modesty has prevented me from making an -open expression of my affection. My heart expands within my bosom. If -you love me wear a red necktie and smile upon me when next we meet. -With all maidenly reserve, I am yours, A. M." I will procure the -necktie at once, and prepare to satisfy the longing of her heart with -the knowledge that her love is returned. [=Exit= _CORIOLANUS, L. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _HENRY, gate C._ - -=Hen.= [_With draft in hand._] I think I have secured all the -persons in the draft but two, and they are Coriolanus Wellington and -George Washington Dollerclutch. That Dollerclutch has led me quite a -chase--been looking for him two days. Wherever I've looked for him I -was informed he had just left. I believe the rascal is dodging me. But -I guess I'm sure of the other chap--he's a servant here with Adrienne's -father-in-law. I'll go in and secure him. [=Exit= _into cottage._] - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH and HILDA, R. 2 E._ - -=Dol.= Now you leave everything in my hands and I'll see that I bring -you through your trouble all right. I've got all the points on this -paper. Now go into the house before we are discovered. I'll soon bring -the smiles back again. - -=Hil.= Oh, thank you! Heaven bless you for befriending a helpless girl. -[=Exit= _HILDA into cottage._] - - =Enter= _ANASTASIA, L. 2 E. DOLLERCLUTCH puts paper into pocket._ - -=Anas.= [_Aside._] He has just read my letter. Ahem! - -=Dol.= [_Turns._] My dear madam! Pray be seated! [_Leads her to bench -R. C._] I regret extremely that our last interview was so abruptly -terminated by the advent of that ignorant jackass-- - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, L. 2 E., wearing a ridiculously large red - necktie. He strikes dignified attitudes and tries to attract - ANASTASIA'S attention to it. He tries to smile--but they are very - sickly smiles._ - -=Anas.= [_Stares at CORIOLANUS._] Oh! - -=Dol.= [_Aside._] There's that confounded idiot again. Look at the -grinning hyena. - -=Anas.= Well, I never! The man must be crazy. - -=Dol.= [_Rising._] Madam! with your permission, I will crush the -rascal. [_ANASTASIA nods assent. DOLLERCLUTCH bounces him--they -struggle off L. 2 E. Sound of broken glass. DOLLERCLUTCH returns, his -clothes ruffled._] I guess I fixed him that time--I landed him in the -hot-house. - -=Anas.= [_Admiringly._] I knew you were a brave man! - -=Dol.= Well, I must say I am rather proud of my bravery. I was not -named George Washington for nothing. - - =Enter= _HENRY from cottage._ - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] At last! [_To DOLLERCLUTCH._] George Washington -Dollerclutch, I beg to inform you that you are drafted. You will -accompany me to headquarters. - -=Dol.= [_Terror-stricken._] Oh, Lord! - - =Enter= _CORIOLANUS, L. 2 E., face and hands cut--his clothes - disordered. ANASTASIA R., DOLLERCLUTCH R. C., HENRY C., CORIOLANUS - L. C._ - -=Cor.= What! I calmly submit to this outrage? Never! I'll tear him to -pieces. - -=Hen.= [_Seizing CORIOLANUS._] You are drafted to help preserve -the Union. [_CORIOLANUS is frightened. During the above ANASTASIA -pantomimes to DOLLERCLUTCH to follow her and escape._ =Exit= _ANASTASIA -R. 2 E. DOLLERCLUTCH about to follow her. HENRY sees him and points -revolver at him._] Halt! [_DOLLERCLUTCH turns and sees revolver and is -frightened._] Advance three paces--halt! About face! [_CORIOLANUS takes -position on his right._] That will do. Now, gentlemen, before we go to -headquarters, you will accompany me into the house until I get some -lunch; then we will proceed on our journey. Left face! Forward march! -[=Exeunt= _all into cottage._] - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE, followed by REGINALD, L. 2 E._ - -=Reg.= Adrienne! - -=Adri.= [_R. C. Turns._] Your pleasure, Reginald! - -=Reg.= [_Quietly, but firmly._] Adrienne, I desire a few moments' -conversation. What I have to say is for your ears only! - -=Adri.= Proceed, Reginald. I hear you! - -=Reg.= Adrienne, the time has come when I must speak--I can no longer -bear the cold, dignified reserve with which you treat me--your husband. -There is a motive for all things--and there must be a motive that -prompts your action. We are man and wife, and open candor and frankness -should exist between us. - -=Adri.= Have I not fulfilled my duty, sir? Have I not shown you the -honor and respect that you have a right to demand from a wife? - -=Reg.= You have honored and respected me, Adrienne, but I have a right -to expect even more. - -=Adri.= I do not understand! - -=Reg.= I have a right to expect your love! [_ADRIENNE retreats a step, -her hand pressed to her heart._] Yes, Adrienne! Marriage is a holy act -which ought to be based on the rock of love; else it becomes a sordid -and disgraceful bargain, devoid of sacredness and heavenly sanction. -[_She recoils._] When I led you to the altar it was with the firm -belief that our marriage would be a holy and sacred bond, founded upon -the eternal principle of love. But your manner since has caused me to -doubt the sincerity of your heart. - -=Adri.= [_Haughtily._] Did I, when I accepted your hand, say that I -returned your love? - -=Reg.= No! In my eyes you were an ideal woman, of the highest and -noblest sentiment--devoid of worldly ambition and desire. That was -sufficient. Could I then doubt the feeling which actuated your -acceptance of my heart and hand? [_Slight pause._] Adrienne! say that I -am not disappointed in you--say that your sacred vow at the altar, "to -love, honor and obey," was not a hollow sham--speak, Adrienne, speak! -[_Pause. REGINALD turns away._] - -=Adri.= [_Recovering slowly._] I will be honest with you, sir! You have -a right to know. Could I but recall those fatal words that bound me for -life to one I can never love, I would willingly lay down my life. I -refused you when you first offered yourself, because I loved another. -When I witnessed his perfidy, a few moments later, in a fit of pique, -I accepted you. When I recovered from the mad impulse that swayed my -being, I awakened to the misery into which I had plunged myself, and I -almost hated you for tempting me to this agonizing bondage. - -=Reg.= [_With intense feeling suppressed._] Madam, the die is cast! You -bear my name--you are my wife--that cannot be recalled, for that is -recorded above. You will ever receive at my hands the respect that is -due my wife. I shall provide for and protect you as long as He, in His -good mercy, does grant me life. You will always find this, my paternal -home, yours to enjoy. - -=Adri.= [_Alarmed._] What would you do? - -=Reg.= Madam, it must be evident to you that my hopes in life are -blighted; that I would not weary your sight with the presence of one -who would be a constant reproach to your misery and folly. I will -leave you. Perhaps the day may come when your heart may change and -turn toward the husband. If so, the words, "Reginald, I love you--come -back," will bring to your bosom the husband, who will always be true to -his sacred vow at the altar. [_Crosses to L._] - - =Enter= _HENRY, DOLLERCLUTCH and CORIOLANUS, followed by - ANASTASIA, MORRIS and HILDA, from cottage. HENRY back of bench, R. - DOLLERCLUTCH and ADOLPHUS, R. MORRIS and ANASTASIA, up C. HILDA - crosses to ADRIENNE. ADRIENNE is overcome. She sinks on bench, R. - C._ - -=Reg.= [_To HENRY._] Henry, accept a new recruit, who is ready to fight -for the preservation of the Union and protect the Stars and Stripes. -[_Takes roll and pencil and signs it._] - -=Adri.= [_Starting up, with outstretched hands._] Reginald, stay! - -=Hen.= Too late! [_ADRIENNE faints. HILDA attends her at bench, R. C._] - - =Tableau.= - - DOLLER. CORIO. - - HEN. MORRIS. - - HIL. ADRI. REG. ANAS. - - - =Curtain.= - - - - -ACT III. - -A Lapse of Four Years. - - - =Scene 1=: A CAMP IN THE ARMY. - - _Discovered at rise of curtain: HENRY in Captain's uniform, - and REGINALD as a private, both seated on camp-stools, R. 2 E. - CORIOLANUS, as private, sitting near the fire, R. C. DOLLERCLUTCH, - as private, asleep in front of tent, L. 4 E. ADOLPHUS, as private, - doing sentinel duty, L. 1 E._ - -=Hen.= When did you hear from home last, Reginald? - -=Reg.= A week ago. - -=Hen.= And how is your little Alice? - -=Reg.= When last I heard, she was well. Oh, Henry! she is the only joy -in my life. The future of my child is the only thing that keeps me -from despair. I live in hopes that I shall one day clasp my child to -my bosom. Oh, the yearning of a father's heart! And now that we are so -near to her, I almost feel tempted to shirk my duty and satisfy the -longing to see my beloved child. - -=Hen.= We are only six miles away from your home, I believe you said? - -=Reg.= Yes! day by day have we been drawing closer to it. And it is -nearly four years since I left the scene, never to return to it again. -[_He turns away._] - -=Hen.= Reginald, I sincerely sympathize with you in your trouble. -[_Takes him by the hand._] Adrienne has wronged you deeply. She---- - -=Reg.= [_Checks him._] Henry, she is your sister, but do not forget -that she is my _wife_. I cannot listen to her condemnation even from -you. - -=Hen.= Well, Reginald, I respect your wishes. But cheer up! I have -faith to believe that all will be right again--that some day will see -you reunited and happy. - -=Reg.= [_Shakes his head._] This will be my only happiness, Henry. -[_Shows picture of child._] - -=Hen.= Is this the picture of my niece? Why, she doesn't look a bit -like Adrienne! - -=Reg.= No! the resemblance is to _my_ family. I can now readily -understand why my father wrote to me, soon after the child's birth, -asking the privilege of naming it. She bears a striking resemblance to -my little sister. - -=Hen.= Your sister! I never knew you had a sister! - -=Reg.= No! because that is the skeleton in our family closet. Her name -was Alice. When but three months old she was stolen from the cradle. -All effort to recover the child proved fruitless. Her disappearance has -since remained a mystery. Grief over our loss brought my mother to an -early grave. My father sacrificed his all in the hope of recovering the -child, but all his efforts proved unavailing. This happened eighteen -years ago, and we know not whether she be living or not, but we mourn -her as dead. - -=Hen.= And had you no suspicion as to who stole the child? - -=Reg.= None. My father did not think he had an enemy in the world. - -=Hen.= Strange! very strange! The ways of Providence are mysterious, -and we must bow with resignation to His Divine Will. One moment, -Reginald. [_To ADOLPHUS._] Adolphus! - -=Adol.= [_Salutes._] Captain, I await your orders. - -=Hen.= Go to the officers' tent and inquire whether the mail has -arrived. - -=Adol.= [_Salutes._] All right, Captain! [=Exit= _L. 1 E._] - -=Hen.= [_To CORIOLANUS._] Coriolanus! [_CORIOLANUS rises and salutes._] -Take his post as sentinel! [_CORIOLANUS salutes and takes his post. To -REGINALD._] It is remarkable what a change there is in Adolphus. When I -drafted him I thought he would make a poor soldier, he was so cowardly; -but he has turned out to be one of the bravest men in the regiment. A -soldier's life has made a man of him. - -=Reg.= It has, indeed! I have often wanted to ask you what ever became -of his chum, Sammy. I thought you had drafted him, also. - -=Hen.= I did; but he had plenty of money, and furnished a substitute. I -wish the mail would arrive. [_Rises._] By the way, Reginald, did your -last letter mention anything about any of the rest of your household? - -=Reg.= [_Rises._] For instance, Hilda? Ha! ha! ha! Oh, you sly rogue! -Henry, I remember a conversation we had, when you asked me to show you -a woman devoid of fashion's frivolities--ha! ha! ha! Perhaps, now _you_ -can show one--ha! ha! ha! What! Henry, the recluse, the woman-hater, in -love with a woman? Wonderful! Ha! ha! ha! - -=Hen.= Well, I'll acknowledge the corn; but I didn't know a sensible -woman until I met Hilda Wallace, whose quiet and unassuming manners -struck the chord of affinity in my nature. - -=Reg.= [_Takes him by the hand._] Well, well, I'm glad of the -transformation, and I hope your future will not be marred by -disappointment. [_DOLLERCLUTCH snores._] - - =Enter= _ADOLPHUS, L. 1 E._ - -=Hen.= [_To ADOLPHUS._] Well? - -=Adol.= [_Salutes._] The mail has not arrived, Captain! [REGINALD -=Exits= _into tent, C. DOLLERCLUTCH snores._] - -=Hen.= Pshaw! just tickle that fellow with your boot! [_ADOLPHUS about -to do so._] - -=Dol.= [_Dreaming._] Oh, Anastasia! [_ADOLPHUS, L. C. HENRY, C. -DOLLERCLUTCH asleep, L. CORIOLANUS, down L._] - -=Hen.= Listen! He's dreaming! - -=Dol.= Anastasia, beloved! oh, fly--fly to my arms! - -=Hen.= Ha! ha! ha! I wonder whether she's got wings? [_DOLLERCLUTCH -talks again._] But, listen! - -=Dol.= [_Starting._] The rebs are coming--the rebs are coming! Where -shall I hide myself? I'll be killed if I stay here. [_Sits upright._] -Don't shoot! [_He fights imaginary rebels._] Don't shoot--don't! -[_Awakes._] - -=Hen.= Look out! the rebs are coming! Ha! ha! ha! - -=Dol.= [_Getting on his feet. Aside._] Confound it all! I must have -been dreaming. - -=Hen.= Ha! ha! ha! We've found you out at last, old Dollerclutch. You -are a _brave_ man, George Washington. I thought I never did see you -when we went into an engagement--now I can account for it. - -=Dol.= [_L. C._] Sir! I have always been where the fight was thickest. - -=Cor.= [_Aside._] After it was over. - -=Hen.= _You_ mean George Washington was--but I mean George Washington -Dollerclutch. - -=Dol.= Sir! Do you mean to insinuate that my bravery is a matter of -doubt? You wrong me, sir! You wrong me, I can assure you. My deeds of -valor have saved the day many a time--many a time. Do you understand? -But my modesty won't allow me to speak of them. Even in my childhood -was I noted for my bravery. I took Mrs. Winslow's soothing syrup with -the most unflinching courage. Nothing would delight me more than a -hand-to-hand encounter with a whole regiment of rebels. I would glory -in the chance, sir! I have smelt powder many times. [_He shoots off his -revolver, smells the smoke from the barrel, and struts the stage. HENRY -whispers to ADOLPHUS and points to DOLLERCLUTCH._] - -=Adol.= [_Aside to HENRY._] All right, captain; I understand! [_He -steals off cautiously, L. 2 E. HENRY beckons to CORIOLANUS to -follow him, enjoining caution._ =Exeunt=, _R. 2 E. All this is done -unperceived by DOLLERCLUTCH._] - -=Dol.= To take me for a coward--bah! Gentlemen, you don't know! -you--[_Turns and finds them gone._] Hello! where the deuce did they go? -[_Looks around in the different tents._] - - =Enter= _ADOLPHUS, L. 2 E., in a rebel suit, with gun and false - whiskers. He is not noticed by DOLLERCLUTCH. ADOLPHUS brings his - gun to shoulder and points it at DOLLERCLUTCH._ - -=Adol.= [_L. C._] Halt, and surrender. [_DOLLERCLUTCH at tent, R. 5 E. -He turns suddenly in a fright--his knees knock together--he raises his -hands and tries to speak._] Don't move a muscle or I'll bore you. - -=Dol.= [_C._] Don't shoot! Oh, please don't shoot. Please, Mr. Rebel, -I have sixteen small children. Oh! consider what will become of them -when I am taken from them! [_ADOLPHUS drops his gun. Aside._] Ah! that -melted him! [_ADOLPHUS raises gun again._] Oh! oh! - -=Adol.= Remove your cap! [_DOLLERCLUTCH complies with all._] Place it -on the ground. Take off your coat. Place it with your cap! [_ADOLPHUS -takes off his cap and throws it to him._] Put it on! [_Takes off -his coat and throws it to DOLLERCLUTCH._] Put it on! [_He gathers -up DOLLERCLUTCH'S clothes._] Now sit down. [_DOLLERCLUTCH goes for -stool._] No, no, on the ground! Take hold of your toes! Now sit there -till I come back. [=Exit= _L. 2 E._] - -=Dol.= [_Looking around._] This is the toughest scrape I was ever in. -The camp has been surprised by the rebels. They are all captured. Oh, -Anastasia, I'm done for! - - =Enter= _HENRY, R. 4 E., followed by CORIOLANUS. ADOLPHUS - re-enters, L. 2 E., in his regular uniform._ - -=Hen.= [_CORIOLANUS R., HENRY R. C., DOLLERCLUTCH C., ADOLPHUS L. C. -Pounces upon DOLLERCLUTCH._] I've got the rebel, boys. Get some cords, -quick! [_ADOLPHUS gets them, L. 3 E._] - -=Dol.= [_Struggling._] Hold on, Captain! Let me go; it's me! - -=Corio.= Let's hang the rebel to a tree, Captain! He's a spy! - -=Dol.= I tell you, Captain, it's me--don't you hear me? - -=Adol.= Let's tie him to a stake and riddle him with bullets. - -=Corio.= [_Aside._] I'll get even with him now for the indignity he -heaped upon me four years ago. - -=Dol.= [_Struggling._] Oh! - -=Hen.= I'll tell you what we'll do! We will give him a sound switching -first. Then we'll hang him for a spy. - -=Corio.= [_Eagerly._] Let me do the switching, Captain. [_Gets switch, -L. 3 E. Aside._] I'll give it him hot! - -=Dol.= Oh, Lord! I shall die! [_CORIOLANUS returns._] - -=Corio.= Now, you rebel, [_cuts him with switch_] how does that feel? - -=Dol.= You infernal rascal! I'll--[_CORIOLANUS cuts him again._] Oh! - -=Corio.= Fits close, eh? [_Cuts again._] - -=Dol.= [_Struggling._] Oh! oh! [_Pleads._] Good Coriolanus, -please--please don't! [_CORIOLANUS cuts again._] Oh! Don't you know -your old friend, Dollerclutch? - -=Corio.= Dollerclutch? You? Oh, no! you're not Dollerclutch. -Dollerclutch is a _brave_ man. Oh, no! you're a black-hearted rebel. -[_Cuts him again._] - -=Dol.= Oh! oh! - -=Hen.= [_To CORIOLANUS._] Hold! Let me look at him! Ha! ha! ha! It is -Dollerclutch, by all that's wonderful! [_Releases DOLLERCLUTCH._] Ha! -ha! ha! a good joke! - -=Dol.= [_Rises to his feet._] A joke, sir? Do you call that a joke? -But, I'll now give you an exhibition of my bravery, sir! [_Pounces -suddenly upon CORIOLANUS. They struggle off, L. 3 E. All laugh._] - -=Adol.= I guess we've taken the conceit out of him, Captain! - -=Hen.= Yes, I hope it will prove a wholesome lesson to him. - - =Enter= _RALPH, L. 2 E., with letters, which he pulls from his - pocket. A large wallet drops unnoticed by him from his pocket, near - stool, L. 2 E._ - -=Ralph.= [_C._] Good afternoon, Henry! - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] The mail at last! [_To RALPH._] Good afternoon, -Murdell! The mail? - -=Ralph.= [_R. C._] Yes! [_Sorting letters._] Any news from the front? - -=Hen.= Yes! Grant has flanked Lee and is pressing him hard. - -=Ralph.= Good! He'll worry him out soon. [_Hands letter to HENRY._] - - =Re-enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, L. 3 E.; CORIOLANUS, L. 2 E._ - -=Hen.= Thanks, Major! [_Retires up stage and reads letter._] - -=Ralph.= [_Reads from envelope._] Adolphus Softhead! - -=Adol.= [_Comes forward._] Thank you, Major! [_Salutes, and retires up -stage reading._] - -=Ralph.= [_As before._] George Washington Dollerclutch. - -=Dol.= [_Comes down._] That's me, Major! [_He takes letter, salutes and -sits on stool, near which pocket-book lies._] - - =Enter= _REGINALD, from tent._ - -=Reg.= [_R. C., to RALPH._] Anything for me, Major? [_Salutes._] - -=Ralph.= [_Coldly._] Yes! [_Hands him letter._] - -=Reg.= Thank you, Major! [_Salutes and retires up stage reading._] - -=Ralph.= [_Looking after him._] Curse him! How I hate him! The proud -fool! Satisfied to remain a private! If he'd accepted promotion, as -it was offered him from time to time, for his gallant bravery in the -field, he would be my superior officer. As it is, he prefers to remain -a private, because, as he says, his ambition does not aspire to receive -the plaudits of his country. The commanding officers cannot find praise -enough for his heroism in action. Curse him! [_To HENRY on right._] -Lowville, you will meet the officers in a half hour from now, for -consultation. - -=Hen.= All right, Major! [=Exit= _RALPH, L. 2 E._] - -=Reg.= [_Looking at letter._] And yet no word from Adrienne! [=Exit= -_into tent, R. 5 E._] - -=Dol.= [_At stool, L. 2 E., reads._] "I long for the time when this -cruel war is over, when I may receive my brave Dollerclutch to this -maiden heart." Oh! this cruel war, to keep such fond hearts apart! -Hello! Here is something on the other side--[_reads._] "Hilda tells me -to write you that she has not forgotten you, and God bless you!" No, -nor have I forgotten her! Poor girl! I've watched him and pumped him, -but I can't find out anything--he's as close as an oyster with--[_Sees -wallet on ground._] Hello! What's this? [_Picks it up._] "R. M." Why, -it's his! [_Looks around._] H'm! I'll investigate! [_Opens it and -pulls out papers. He unfolds one and jumps up excitedly._] Hurrah! -Hilda's marriage record, by the jumping jingo! [_He looks around, -places it in his pocket._] Good! [_Unfolds another._] H'm--'tis part of -a letter--[_reads_] "of old Maitland"--something torn off and then--"of -old Maitland"--[_reads further_] "Revenge is sweet. I can fancy how he -grieves for his lost Alice!" [_Studies._] Maitland! The devil! That's -Reginald's name; but he says old Maitland--he's young; but he's got -a father. Of course he has, and he's older than he. Certainly he is! -How stupid I am! [_Studies again._] H'm! [_Pulls out baby dress from -his bosom and examines initials._] A. M.! [_Jumps up._] Eureka! by the -jumping jingo! A.--Alice! M.--Maitland! That's Hilda's name, I'll stake -my life! Here comes the rascal back. [_DOLLERCLUTCH puts letter in his -pocket hastily--he leaves the wallet on the ground, where he found -it--goes a little up stage and appears interested in his own letter._] - - =Enter= _RALPH, L. 2 E., as if hunting for something._ - -=Ralph.= Confound it! I must have dropped it when I pulled those -letters from my pocket! [_Sees wallet on ground._] Ah! Here it is! -safe! What a fortunate thing it did not fall into anybody's hands! -Good! I'm a lucky dog! [=Exit= _L. 2 E._] - -=Dol.= [_Comes down and looks after him._] Yes! and I'm a luckier dog. -I can go you one better, my chap. George Washington, you did that -slick--you're a trump! But how shall I get these papers to the poor -girl? Confound it, I can't send them to her for fear they'll fall -into his hands again. If I keep them he'll soon discover his loss and -institute a search. If I hide them until the war is over, I might get -shot by an infernal rebel, and then how will the poor girl know about -them? Now, this _is_ a dilemma! [_Studies._] I have it! It is only -five or six miles to the place. I'll take them myself. I'll wait till -dark, then I'll slip away. I can be back in three hours! [_Sudden -thought._] What if my absence should be discovered? Then I'll be in -a pretty pickle! Court-martial--probably shot for a deserter. Ugh! -[_Sudden determination._] I'll risk it; I promised to see this thing -through, and, hang it, George Washington Dollerclutch will stand by his -word. Besides, I'll have a chance to see my charming Anastasia. That'll -nerve me in the undertaking. [_Retires up stage and_ =Exits= _into -tent, L. 4 E. During the last speech the stage is gradually darkened. -HENRY comes forward, C._] - -=Hen.= Dollerclutch! [_DOLLERCLUTCH sticks his head out of tent._] -You will serve as sentinel on the high rock for the night. Maitland, -relieve Softhead. [_They salute and go to their respective posts. -DOLLERCLUTCH on high rock, L. 5 E. REGINALD, L. 1 E._] This is going to -be a dark night. I'll turn in. [=Exit= _HENRY, L. 2 E. The rest retire -to their tents._] - -=Dol.= Now for my journey! [_He comes down, gets a cloak from tent, L. -4 E., and steals away cautiously, R. 3 E._] - -=Reg.= [_L. C. In a study._] "Adrienne has taught little Alice to pray -for you." How strangely my father's words move me! Perhaps--but no! -no!--that will never be! Adrienne must be forever dead to my yearning -heart. When I entered the army I thought I had buried the joy of life -forever. But love for my child has sprung from the ashes of my forlorn -hopes, to cheer my drooping heart, like the oasis to the weary traveler -of the desert. Oh! the longing of a father's heart! What would I not -give to see her--speak to her. Oh! I feel as if I could not resist the -temptation to go and have if but one look. Yes, yes--a soldier's life -is uncertain--it may be the only opportunity to cast my eyes upon my -darling Alice! - - =Enter= _RALPH, L. 2 E. He pauses. REGINALD at C._ - -=Reg.= I cannot resist the impulse. I must see my child! [=Exit= -_hurriedly into tent, L. 5 E. RALPH watches him cautiously._] - - =Re-enter= _REGINALD from tent with cloak, and_ =Exit= _hurriedly, - R. 4 E._ - -=Ralph.= What does this mean? Maitland leaving his post? He acts -strangely, too! I'll follow him and see what he is up to. At last I -have the opportunity to humble his pride in the sight of the commanding -officers! [_He follows REGINALD, R. 4 E._] - - =Quick Curtain.= - - - - -Act IV. - - - =Scene 1=: SITTING-ROOM IN THE MAITLAND COTTAGE. - - _ANASTASIA discovered seated knitting at table, L. C._ - -=Anas.= War, and war, and war--and nothing but war! What earthly sense -can there be in a lot of men standing up to be shot at, I'd like to -know? Men making targets of themselves for others to practice shooting -at! If they want to shoot so bad there are enough shooting galleries, -where they can bang away to their hearts' content. But that's just the -way with the men. They always will be doing things they ought not to. -If the women only had the control of the Government, there would not be -any war--never! Everything would be peace and harmony. - - =Enter= _MORRIS, D. R. 3 E._ - -=Mor.= [_R. C._] Good morning, sister! Where is my little darling Alice? - -=Anas.= Out in the garden with her mother and Hilda. - -=Mor.= [_Anxiously._] I am almost afraid to let them venture out of the -house for fear there might be some rebels lurking in the neighborhood. - -=Anas.= [_Drops knitting and rises._] Good gracious, brother Morris! -There is no danger of the fighting coming so close? - -=Mor.= It is hard to tell how it will be. Warfare is very uncertain, -although I do not think there is any immediate danger. The rebels are -fleeing towards the north-west, out of our track entirely. The Union -forces are but six miles to our west. - -=Anas.= What if they should turn back? What will become of us? - -=Mor.= True; but I believe the greatest danger is past! The rebels have -a determined pursuer, who will not be forced back. Grant is not the -man to acknowledge defeat. He has entered the fight to win, and I have -faith in him to believe that he will not turn his back upon the rebels -until he has forced them to submission. - -=Anas.= Just to think that we might all have been shot and cut up--ugh! -It makes my blood run cold. - -=Mor.= But the danger is not entirely over. The enemy is getting -desperate. Their supplies are cut off, and I fear some depredation -from foraging parties. I must caution them not to go out of sight of -the house, and not to allow Alice out of hearing. It would tear my -heart-strings should harm come to my darling little Alice. - -=Anas.= Bless the sweet child! How she does grow. Ah! brother, she -looks more and more like our poor lost Alice every day. - -=Mor.= Anastasia! I beg of you do not re-open the old wound. Revive not -the bitter memories of the past, which still have power to renew the -agony of a father's woful loss. [_Turns away._] - -=Anas.= Forgive me, brother! I did not wish to make you feel sad. I'm -too sympathetic--I'm--I'm--[_She sits and cries affectedly._] - -=Mor.= There, there! Don't let us have a scene. John is about ready to -start for the post-office. If you have any letters to send, you will -please have them ready. I will go and seek my little torment, Alice. -[=Exit= _D. R. F._] - -=Anas.= [_Takes letter from pocket and reads it._] Ah, how he loves -the child! Should anything happen to Alice, it would kill him. -[_Addresses letter._] George Washington Dollerclutch, Esq. There, -you brave man! I'm so afraid his lion courage will make him too -venturesome. History will be full of his great deeds of bravery and -valor. But I must hasten, or I shall be too late. [=Exit= _D. L. 2 E._] - - =Enter= _HILDA, D. R. 3 E. She goes to chair R. of table._ - -=Hil.= How cruel is fate! The friend on whom I had based my hopes to -help me sustain an honorable recognition before the world is debarred, -by the cruel requirements of war, from clearing my name of the stain -and reproach heaped upon it by a designing and depraved villain. - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE, D. R. 3 E._ - -=Adri.= What! brooding again, Hilda? Come, cheer up! Put a firm trust -in the Almighty, and He will help you out of your great trouble. - -=Hil.= I do! [_Rises._] But, oh! it seems so long to wait! - -=Adri.= Alas, yes! We are apt to question sometimes, if He has deserted -us. But, rest assured, Hilda, He is all mercy and justice, and will, in -His good time, bring the balm of peace and joy to the suffering heart. - -=Hil.= Thanks, my lady! You have been so good to me. - -=Adri.= Nay, Hilda! I deeply sympathize with you in your trouble, and -I feel assured that your villainous husband will, some day, meet the -punishment he so richly deserves. - -=Hil.= Yes, my lady. How near he came to wrecking your happiness, also. -It makes me shudder to think of it. - -=Adri.= Yes, Hilda! but Heaven saved me from such a fate. It is with -shame that I must acknowledge that I was so blinded to his real -character as to love him. Thank Heaven, my eyes have been opened to his -treachery and baseness. - -=Hil.= Oh, my lady! I am so glad to know that you forgave my silence -about his true character. - -=Adri.= I could not blame you, Hilda. It was a bitter lesson, and I -can only reproach my folly for listening to his ardent appeals of -love. I thought him a gentleman of the highest honor, worthy of the -love of a virtuous and innocent girl. But your exposure of his utter -depravity has saved me from despair. It has awakened me to a keen -sense of the great injustice I have done him who has honored me with -his name--my husband. Oh, the agony I have inflicted upon that noble, -trusting heart! Oh, that it was I that drove him from me by my wretched -cruelty!--perhaps to meet his death upon the gory field of battle. - - =Enter= _MORRIS, door in L. F. He pauses and listens._ - -=Adri.= Oh, may the Heavenly Father spare his life and bring him safely -back to this bleeding heart. - -=Hil.= Oh, Adrienne! then you love him? - -=Adri.= Love him, Hilda! Yea. I worship him. The grand nobility of his -soul has inspired my heart with the strong, undying love of the wife. - -=Hil.= And does Reginald know of the change of your heart? - -=Adri.= Alas, no! Pride--foolish pride--has kept me from making the -confession to him. - -=Hil.= Adrienne, let me beseech you, then, to write to him at once, -and bring the sunshine of joy to his wretched heart. Do not mar your -own happiness by withholding the true state of your feelings. Think -of your child--your darling Alice. Do not deprive her future of the -happiness of a father's love. - -=Adri.= I am so unworthy of him. Can he--will he forgive? [_Aside._] -His words when he left me--"Perhaps in time your feelings may change; -if so, the words 'Reginald, I love you--come back,' will bring to your -side one who will forever love you." [_To HILDA._] Yes, yes, Hilda, -you have taught me my duty. I will unburden to him my heart. I _will_ -say--"Reginald, I love you--come back." [_MORRIS comes forward. Down -L._] - -=Mor.= God bless you, my daughter! - -=Adri.= You here? - -=Mor.= Forgive me, Adrienne, for being a listener. But I am glad, for -it has convinced me how much I had wronged you in my thoughts. It has -shown me the true and loving heart of a woman--of a true and loyal -wife, who can yet be a pride to the loving heart of a husband, and a -joy in the declining years of his father. I have treated you coldly, -harshly, unjustly. I knew not the cause--the motive of your action. I -looked but upon the result. I now ask, in all humility and deference, -your forgiveness. [_He kneels to her._] - -=Adri.= Rise, most noble sir! I have naught to forgive! I, alone, am to -blame. I have merited your censure by my conduct. Heaven grant it may -not be too late to restore to your arms an honored and dutiful son, and -to me a cherished and beloved husband. - -=Mor.= [_Embraces her._] Adrienne! [_Kisses her forehead._] God bless -you, my daughter! [_His head droops on her shoulder. ADRIENNE gives her -hand to HILDA, who takes it in both her own. Picture. Whistle scene._] - - =Scene 2=: WOOD PASS IN 1ST GROOVE. NIGHT. - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, R. 1 E., enveloped in cloak._ - -=Dol.= I got safely away without being discovered. The camp was wrapped -in slumber, not a soul stirring but the sentinels. [_Looks around._] If -I'm not mistaken, I must be near the house. Ah! some one approaches! -[_He retires._] - - =Enter= _HILDA, L. 1 E._ - -=Hil.= If Reginald could but return, how happy they would be! I left -Adrienne writing to him, pouring out the love which will bring joy to -his desolate heart. [_Sighs._] And there's Henry, her brother! How my -thoughts will always revert to him. So manly in his bearing--high in -the appreciation of true worth. If I only were--but no! I must check -the feeling that has sprung up here. [_Pressing her heart._] I must not -forget that my life is linked to another-- - -=Dol.= [_Aside._] It's she! I'm sure it is! - -=Hil.= [_Alarmed._] What's that!--who's there? [_DOLLERCLUTCH comes -forward. HILDA retreats, alarmed._] - -=Dol.= Don't be alarmed, my dear girl. Don't you know your old friend? - -=Hil.= [_Comes forward doubtfully._] Can it be possible? Mr. -Dollerclutch? - -=Dol.= Yes, my dear girl, your stanch friend, Dollerclutch. [_Takes her -hand._] - -=Hil.= I'm so glad to meet you! But what brings you in this -neighborhood? Perhaps you know--Oh, tell me, sir! Have you any news? -Relieve my suspense, sir! - -=Dol.= I have news, and good news--I've discovered all; now don't you -faint. I've got the record of your marriage--and I have found your -parents. [_HILDA gets faint and staggers._] Oh, Lord! I told you not to -faint--what shall I do? [_He supports her._] - -=Hil.= [_Starting up._] 'Tis over, sir! The sudden joy nearly overcame -me. - -=Dol.= Now take a strong grip of your nerves--now do--that's a good -girl. I have not a minute to spare. I must get back to camp before my -absence is discovered or I shall get myself in a tight place. - -=Hil.= Pardon me, sir! I will be calm! - -=Dol.= That's right! [_Takes papers from pocket._] Now listen! I -haven't the time to tell you how I was successful--that I'll do by -letter--but I've got the proofs, and here they are. That is the record -of your marriage, and this is part of a letter from which, I think, I -have found out that you are the daughter of Morris Maitland. - -=Hil.= [_Staggers._] Mr. Maitland my father? - -=Dol.= Now be careful, I tell you! Don't forget your nerves. Now listen -to what I say. Take these papers and this dress to Morris Maitland. -[_Hands her papers and baby dress._] Tell him your story and I'll stake -my life on it that he will find a daughter and you a father. - -=Hil.= How can I ever repay you for your kindness to me? You have -raised a burden from my life that was crushing me. Heaven bless you, -sir! May you meet the reward that your large and magnanimous heart -deserves. - -=Dol.= I haven't got any such heart! you are mistaken--entirely -mistaken. My action was in the line of duty--purely in duty, without -any kindness whatever, do you understand? Now go! lose not a moment and -be careful not to lose the papers. [_Gently forces her to L. 1 E._] - -=Hil.= I will, sir! and Heaven bless you. [=Exit= _L. 1 E._] - -=Dol.= Now, I've got that poor girl happy, now for my own happiness. If -I could only meet my Anastasia! Now why the deuce didn't I ask that -girl to tell her to come out a few moments? George Washington, you're -an idiot to let a little excitement get away with your head. But who -comes this way? [_DOLLERCLUTCH hides._] - - =Enter= _RALPH, R. 1 E._ - -=Ralph.= So! Adrienne must be the magnet which drew him from his post -of duty. I followed him like a ferret, and I'm sure that we are in the -neighborhood of his home. Curse him, he can walk like a race horse! I -had to run, at times, to keep up with him. Go to your Adrienne, you -vain fool, go to the wife whose heart enshrines another. I wish you -joy! But I too shall, perhaps, see an opportunity to speak to the proud -and haughty beauty! If I do, I'll humble her pride--curse her! [=Exit= -_L. 1 E._] - -=Dol.= [_Comes forward._] Ralph Murdell, by the jumping jingo! What -brings him to this neighborhood? No good, I'll be bound! If he should -run across Hilda before she gets to the house it might upset all. No! -not while old Dollerclutch can prevent it. I'll follow the rascal, and, -if he as much as attempts to injure a hair of the girl's head, I'll -treat his black carcass to an ounce of lead. Hang me if I don't see -this thing through! [=Exit= _L. 1 E. Whistle scene._] - - =Scene 3=: SAME AS SCENE 1. - - _ADRIENNE discovered at table, L. C., writing. ALICE in crib, L. 4 E._ - -=Adri.= [_Sealing letter._] 'Tis done at last! With what feelings of -anxiety shall I count the hours until I have his reply! Will it bring -happiness to my longing heart? Yes, yes! His is a love that time cannot -change, nor separation dim! [_Goes to crib, L. 4 E._] How sweetly she -sleeps! [_She kneels in prayer._] Heaven preserve my darling child! -Watch over her with thy faithful love and guidance. Guard the father -with thy holy protection from the dangers of this cruel war, and -restore him safely to the bosom of his sorrowing family. [_Her head -droops. After a slight pause she gets up hurriedly._] I will take the -letter to John, so that he will be sure to take it to the post-office -the first thing in the morning. [=Exit= _ADRIENNE, D. L. 2 E._] - - _After a pause_ =Enter= _REGINALD, D. R. F.; he looks around - eagerly; places his gun against chair, R. 2 E._ - -=Reg.= No one here? How my heart does beat in anticipation of seeing my -beloved Alice. [_Looks around._] Oh, the bitter memories that haunt my -mind at the sight of each familiar object! [_Sees crib, L. 4 E. Goes -to it eagerly and pulls curtain aside._] My child! my Alice! Heavenly -Father, I thank Thee! She sleeps. Oh, Thou being of innocence, free -from the taint of a deceitful world, I will not disturb the peaceful -quiet of thy innocent slumber. Let me feast my eyes upon my sleeping -darling! [_He kneels._] Let the sweet picture of purity and innocence -be forever hung in the desolate cavern of my bleeding heart, safely to -guide me to that eternal home where the soul can find a haven of peace -and rest! [_His head sinks._] - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE, door L. 2 E. She goes to R. C. and sees - REGINALD. She is alarmed._ - -=Adri.= What means this? A stranger! - -=Reg.= [_Rises suddenly and turns._] Adrienne! [_He turns away._] - -=Adri.= Reginald! [_She pauses, with heaving bosom._] - -=Reg.= I beg your pardon, Adrienne, for this intrusion. The impulse to -see my child caused me to forsake my post of duty. It led me here to -have but one look upon her darling form. I have been satisfied and I -am ready to return to the stern post of duty. [_He turns to go towards -door in L. F._] - -=Adri.= And have you no word for me? [_He pauses._] Not a look for the -mother of your child? [_REGINALD keeps his back towards her. ADRIENNE -stretches her arms towards him._] Am I so soon forgotten? [_He presses -his brow. Pause._] Reginald, I love you! come back! [_Reginald turns -suddenly and springs towards her._] - -=Reg.= Adrienne! [_She falls into his arms._] My beloved Adrienne! - -=Adri.= [_After a pause._] Now am I happy, indeed! My prayers have been -answered! - -=Reg.= Heaven is, indeed, merciful, in bringing this joy into my dreary -existence! I fulfilled my duty as a soldier more with the desire to die -in the service of my country, than to live. But now, I enter the fight -doubly armed, for I now know that I have something more to live for -besides my child--a loving wife. - -=Adri.= Heaven grant you will be spared to us, Reginald! - -=Reg.= We will put our trust in Him above, who has granted me the boon -of this happy hour! Alas that I must tear myself away from my new found -joy! But duty demands that I return at once to my post. - -=Adri.= Nay, Reginald, I cannot let you go again. - -=Reg.= Alas! Adrienne, you must bear the separation calmly, for my sake -and for the child's. I left my post without permission, and should my -absence be discovered I shall be court-martialed. A few hours ago I -feared not the consequences of my rash act. But now I dread it, for -your sake. I must return at once, while there is yet time. Let the -thoughts of our child be your strength in my absence, as she will be -mine in the heat of battle. May the Lord of Hosts bring this bloody -war to a speedy close. [_Goes to crib._] Farewell! my child! [_Kisses -her._] Farewell! my beloved wife! [_Kisses her. She clings to him._] -Heaven guard and keep you. [_REGINALD tears himself from ADRIENNE and_ -=Exits= _door L. F. hurriedly, leaving his gun behind. ADRIENNE sinks -into chair R. of table._] - -=Adri.= Cruel, cruel fate! [_Her head droops._] - - =Enter= _RALPH, door R. F._ - -=Adri.= [_Starts up joyfully._] Reginald! [_Sees it is RALPH. She draws -herself haughtily erect._] Ralph Murdell! - -=Ralph.= [_Comes down R. Sneeringly._] Even I, Adrienne, your humble -servant! - -=Adri.= What means this intrusion, sir, at this hour of the night? - -=Ralph.= I never had the pleasure of congratulating you before on your -happy marriage! - -=Adri.= Sir, you will oblige me by leaving this house! - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] That cut, did it? [_To ADRIENNE._] Pardon me, -madam, but if you will allow me to offer my sincere sympathy for your -loveless married life---- - -=Adri.= Leave this house instantly, or I will call assistance to eject -you forcibly! - -=Ralph.= Ha! ha! ha! I made sure there was no one about to disturb us -ere I entered. - -=Adri.= What do you mean? - -=Ralph.= Just this! That there is not a soul within the reach of your -voice. We are alone. But listen to me, Adrienne. I do not wish you -harm--on the contrary, I offer you happiness. - -=Adri.= I do not understand you, sir! - -=Ralph.= When you married Reginald Maitland, it was not because you -loved him, but to gratify a feeling of pique. You gave him your hand, -but not your heart. That belonged to me! I have watched your husband -every day and have read the unhappiness and misery that he tries to -conceal. Adrienne, you are unhappy in the bonds that tie you to a -loveless life. Therefore, fly with me, and I will show you a life's -loving devotion--a life---- - -=Adri.= Enough! Do not pollute further the sanctity of a true and -honest husband's roof with the vile utterances of depraved villainy. My -husband I adore, and I will be loyal to him and faithful unto death. -Your influence over my heart is forever broken, and I would sooner -suffer death, aye, a thousand times, than to listen to another word -from you, whom I hate and despise--yea, whom I loathe more than a viper -in my path! Go, and may Heaven have mercy on your soul! [_She turns -away in majestic contempt._] - -=Ralph.= [_Sees REGINALD'S gun and takes it._] Curse you! Those words -have sealed your doom! [_He shoots. ADRIENNE staggers and falls._] Ha! -ha! ha! Now, my proud beauty, perhaps your pride is humbled! Ha! ha! -ha! [_Looks around cautiously, puts out light, then gropes for door._] - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, door R. F._ - -=Dol.= [_Feeling in the dark._] I'm sure he came this way--and that -shot! I'm afraid all is not right. [_Runs into RALPH._] Ha! [_They -struggle. RALPH throws DOLLERCLUTCH from him and escapes through door, -R. F._] Confound it! He's got away! But I've got his ring, which -slipped from his finger into my hand. He shan't escape--I'll have him -yet. [=Exit= _hurriedly, door R. F._] - - _After a pause_ =Enter= _REGINALD, door L. F._ - -=Reg.= The house is dark. Adrienne has retired for the night. In the -excitement and haste of my departure I forgot my gun. [_He feels around -in the dark._] I stood it here against a chair! [_Finds it._] Ah! -It would not do to return without it. I feel almost tempted to call -Adrienne, that I might once more clasp her to my heart--but, no! I -have delayed too long already. I will live on the fond remembrance of -our happy meeting, and pray that the day be not far distant when I can -feast my heart upon the smiles of my beloved wife and child! [=Exit= -_door R. F._] - - - =Quick Curtain.= - - - - -ACT V. - - - =Scene 1=: CAMP; SAME AS THIRD ACT. - - _Table, R. 2 E. CORIOLANUS on duty as sentinel, L. 1 E. ADOLPHUS in - front of tent, C., cleaning gun; COLONEL MORRELL, CAPTAIN LOWVILLE - and MAJOR MURDELL at table, R. 2 E., in consultation, as curtain - rises._ - -=Colonel Morrell.= I agree with you, gentlemen, fully, and I have -concluded not to advance further until I receive more definite news of -the movements of the main body. We will, therefore, continue in camp -till I give you further instructions. - -=Hen.= According to all reports, the rebs are badly crippled, and Lee -cannot hold out much longer. At all events, I should not be surprised -to hear of his surrender to Grant in the near future. - -=Mor.= Yes, there is all prospect of a speedy ending of this bloody -strife, and I hope we will soon have peace restored, that we may be -enabled to return to our homes and families! [_About to rise._] - -=Ralph.= One moment, Colonel! before you go! It is with regret that I -must call your attention to a private in our command who deserted his -post as sentinel! - -=Mor.= Indeed! His name! - -=Ralph.= Reginald Maitland! [_HENRY rises._] - -=Mor.= [_Jumps up._] What! Reginald Maitland? Impossible! - -=Ralph.= [_Rises._] I beg your pardon, Colonel, but it is a fact! - -=Hen.= Surely, Major, you must be mistaken! - -=Mor.= Reginald Maitland--a soldier ever ready to respond to the -call of duty; always fulfilling his orders in the most praiseworthy -manner--he desert his post? [_Shakes his head._] Please explain, Major! - -=Ralph.= 'Tis surprising, indeed! but, nevertheless, a fact! I saw him -leave myself--he seemed to be greatly agitated. He was absent three -hours! - -=Mor.= Enough! Send for him to report to me at once! - -=Ralph.= [_To ADOLPHUS._] Adolphus! [_ADOLPHUS salutes._] Request -Private Maitland to report to Colonel Morrell immediately! [_ADOLPHUS -salutes and goes to tent, R. 5 E._] - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Strange! What can it mean? - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] At last! - - =Enter= _REGINALD from tent; he comes down and salutes. RALPH, R., - HENRY, R. C., COL. MORRELL, C., REGINALD, L. C., ADOLPHUS, L._ - -=Reg.= Colonel Morrell, I'm at your service, sir! - -=Mor.= Maitland, were you not detailed as sentinel last night? - -=Reg.= I was, sir! - -=Mor.= Did you fulfill your duty to the letter? [_REGINALD hangs his -head._] You are silent! Speak! - -=Reg.= Colonel Morrell, it is with shame I acknowledge that I have -proved unfaithful to my duty--I deserted my post, sir! - -=Mor.= Maitland, it pains me to know that you, on whose honor and -probity I would have staked my existence, should be guilty of this -offense. It is with regret that I am obliged to perform the duty which -devolves upon me! - -=Reg.= Colonel, the offense is a grave one. I have merited the -punishment it demands. I am ready to receive it. - -=Mor.= What was your motive in forsaking duty? - -=Reg.= It was an uncontrollable impulse to see my child, whom I had -never seen before, that swayed my being--I knew not what I did! My -heart was filled with a mad desire to see my child. Duty, honor, all -was forgotten. I could not resist the longing, the yearning of the -father, but I followed the impulse which completely overpowered my -reason. - -=Mor.= And do you know that the penalty for your offense, according to -the rules and regulations of war, is death? - -=Reg.= I do! and I will not shrink from receiving my punishment. I am -ready, Colonel, to receive sentence. - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] As fearless and brave as a lion! - -=Mor.= [_Aside._] No! I cannot do it! [_To REGINALD._] Maitland, under -the circumstances, and in consideration of your past praiseworthy -service, and your undaunted gallantry in action, I will not execute the -punishment which the offense merits. - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Bravo, Colonel! - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] Curse his sympathy! - -=Mor.= But I cannot let the matter pass unnoticed. I place you under -arrest for three weeks. You will be confined in the guard-house -under close surveillance. Private Softhead, deprive him of his arms -and accoutrements, and conduct him in disgrace to the guard-house. -[_ADOLPHUS takes REGINALD'S gun, etc., and places them on the table._] - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] How it cuts his proud nature! - -=Hen.= [_Aside to MORRELL._] These are hard lines, Colonel! - -=Mor.= [_Aside to HENRY._] Yes, Captain! I regret it sincerely! I never -before was obliged to do anything that gave me so much pain. But duty, -as a true soldier, demanded it! - -=Adol.= [_To REGINALD._] Right face! Forward march. [=Exit= _REGINALD -and ADOLPHUS, R. 4 E._] - -=Cor.= [_Looking off L. 2 E._] Halt! Who goes there? [_Voice off -entrance_, "Friend bearing dispatches for the commanding officer."] -Advance, and deliver! [_CORIOLANUS gets them and hands them to COLONEL -MORRELL._] Colonel, allow me! [_He salutes and retires to his post._] - -=Mor.= [_Opening dispatches._] What's this? Can I believe my eyes? -[_Reads._] "Adrienne Maitland, the wife of Reginald Maitland, was found -last night, shot in the head. From the evidence I have collected, I am -satisfied that the husband is the murderer. I send you the proofs. H. -Carson, Chief of Police." No! no! I cannot believe that that man is -guilty of such an infamous charge. [_To RALPH._] Major! read that, and -say if that is not the most outrageous lie against such an honorable -soldier as Reginald Maitland! [_Hands him paper._] - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] Ha! ha! ha! Now will I have my revenge. - -=Hen.= How now, gentlemen, have you bad news? - -=Mor.= There! [_Pointing to paper._] Read for yourself! [_RALPH hands -HENRY paper._] - -=Hen.= Merciful father! Adrienne killed! [_Staggers._] My sister shot? -[_With force._] Tell me, Colonel, who is the cowardly wretch that -committed this deed? [_RALPH shrugs his shoulders._] - -=Mor.= [_Pointing to paper in HENRY'S hand._] Read! - -=Hen.= [_Looks on paper._] No! no! no! What! he guilty of her murder! -No! a thousand times no! I would just as readily believe an angel -guilty of the crime as I would Reginald Maitland! No! I will wager my -life on his innocence! - -=Ralph.= [_Sneeringly._] But everybody is not likely to share your -opinion! - -=Mor.= [_Taking HENRY by the hand._] Lowville, I agree with you! I -cannot believe so noble a character invested with so foul a heart! -Let us investigate the proofs! [_He unfolds another paper. Reads._] -"I inclose the deposition of William Harding, who swears that he -saw Reginald Maitland prowling about the premises in a cautious and -suspicious manner, and that he saw him enter the house about half past -nine o'clock, which was about the time when the deed was committed." - -=Hen.= That evidence proves nothing, Colonel. - -=Ralph.= It is very significant though! - -=Mor.= One moment, gentlemen! [_Reads._] "I also inclose a piece of -blackened paper, evidently the wadding of the gun--also a bullet -which we found imbedded in the wall." [_He pulls blackened paper from -envelope--he smells it._] The wadding of the gun! [_He smooths it -out._] There is writing upon it! H'm! part of a letter. [_Reads._] -"i-l-d Alice!" i-l-d? child Alice, that's it! "loving fath--" father, I -suppose--"Morris Mai--" the rest is burned away. - -=Ralph.= A letter from his father. [_To HENRY._] The evidence is -getting strong, Captain, is it not? [_HENRY is silent._] - -=Mor.= [_Takes bullet from envelope._] The fatal bullet! [_Examines -it._] Here are two letters on it, R. M. - -=Ralph.= Gentlemen, the evidence is conclusive--he is guilty. - -=Mor.= Do not be hasty, Major! I am not yet satisfied of his guilt. -[_Aside._] I fear the worst. [_To ADOLPHUS._] Adolphus! conduct Private -Maitland here at once! [_ADOLPHUS salutes and_ =Exits= _R. 4 E._] - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] He cannot escape now. - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Alas! I fear the result! - -=Enter= _REGINALD and ADOLPHUS, R. 4 E._ - -=Mor.= Maitland, I have evidence here which accuses you of murder! - -=Reg.= [_Recoiling._] Murder? I, Colonel? I accused of murder? - -=Mor.= Yes, you! - -=Reg.= [_Quietly._] Whom am I accused of murdering? - -=Mor.= Your wife! - -=Reg.= [_Staggers._] My wife?--my wife? my Adrienne murdered?--merciful -father! [_Pause. With forced calmness._] I beg your pardon, Colonel, -but I pray you make me not a victim of such cruel jest! [_MORRELL turns -away._] No! no! Tell me 'tis but a jest--tell me it is not true. Oh, -Colonel, tell me that my Adrienne lives--lives--lives! [_He is silent. -To HENRY._] Henry, end this suspense, this torture. Is Adrienne dead? - -=Hen.= [_Taking his hand._] Yes, Reginald, it is true! - -=Reg.= Alas!--alas! [_His head droops. Slight pause. With force._] -Who--who is the hellish fiend that robbed me of my Adrienne? Tell me, -that I might tear his cowardly body limb from limb. - -=Mor.= Maitland, you alone are accused of the crime. [_To ADOLPHUS._] -Softhead! you will take down in writing the proceedings of this -examination. [_ADOLPHUS at table R., HENRY, R. C., RALPH near table, -COL. MORRELL, C., REGINALD, L. C., CORIOLANUS, R. To REGINALD._] Are -you guilty or are you not guilty of the murder of your wife, Adrienne -Maitland? - -=Reg.= I murder Adrienne--my wife? ha! ha! ha!--no! She, in whose -happiness my whole soul was wrapped up? No--no! - -=Mor.= Answer, guilty or not guilty! - -=Reg.= Not guilty! - -=Mor.= [_To RALPH._] At what hour did he desert his post? - -=Ralph.= Eight o'clock! - -=Mor.= [_To REGINALD._] At what hour were you in company with your -wife? - -=Reg.= About nine o'clock! - -=Mor.= Did you have your gun with you? - -=Reg.= I did! - -=Mor.= When did you load it last, and where? - -=Reg.= Yesterday morning, in my tent! - -=Mor.= Did you discharge it since? - -=Reg.= No, sir! - -=Mor.= Is it still loaded? - -=Reg.= It is, sir! - -=Mor.= Major Murdell, hand me Maitland's gun. [_He examines it._] -Gentlemen, the gun has been discharged! [_He hands gun back--he then -hands REGINALD blackened paper._] Do you recognize that paper? - -=Reg.= [_Looks at paper._] I do! It is part of a letter from my father! -I used it for wadding. - -=Mor.= Do you recognize this bullet? [_Hands it._] - -=Reg.= [_Examines._] It is from my mould. - -=Mor.= Did you have any ill feeling against your wife? - -=Reg.= None! - -=Ralph.= Colonel, I can prove that there has existed bad feeling -between them since their marriage! - -=Mor.= Make your statement! - -=Ralph.= They lived unhappily together until an open rupture caused him -to leave her and enlist in the army. - -=Mor.= Your proof! [_RALPH points to HENRY._] Lowville, do you -corroborate Major Murdell's assertion? [_HENRY looks at REGINALD. HENRY -is silent._] - -=Reg.= Speak, Henry! - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Must I speak? [_After a pause, to MORRELL._] I do! - -=Mor.= [_To REGINALD._] What was the nature of the rupture? - -=Reg.= I decline to answer. - -=Ralph.= That was his motive for the crime! - -=Mor.= Silence! [_To REGINALD._] In the face of the evidence, I am -forced to believe you guilty. I regret that a soldier such as you have -heretofore proved yourself to be, should come to such an ignominious -end. [_RALPH consulting with others. HENRY walks aside._] - -=Reg.= Do you believe me guilty, Colonel? [_He turns from REGINALD._] -And do you all think me guilty of this cowardly crime? [_They all look -away but HENRY, who takes REGINALD by the hand._] - -=Hen.= No! I would believe you innocent, had they ten times the -evidence. - -=Ralph.= The evidence has proven his guilt most conclusively! - -=Mor.= [_To REGINALD._] Have you anything to say why I should not pass -sentence upon you? - -=Reg.= I have not! - -=Hen.= Oh, Reginald, why do you not defend yourself? Why not make an -effort to prove your innocence? - -=Reg.= Henry, what have I to live for now? Adrienne is gone from me. -She has left the world dark and dreary to me. I long to join her there! -[_Points upward._] - -=Hen.= Prove your innocence. Let not the stain of murder rest on your -honorable name! - -=Reg.= Henry, this is but the judgment of men. I bow to the judgment -of Him alone who knoweth all things. He knows I am innocent--that is -sufficient. I am satisfied! His will be done! [_To MORRELL._] Colonel, -I await your orders! - -=Mor.= [_Aside._] I would I could believe him innocent. The evidence -condemns him! [_Sighs._] I must fulfill my duty! [_To REGINALD._] -Maitland, the evidence that has been brought to bear shows conclusively -that you are guilty! Nothing remains but for me to pass sentence. I -therefore condemn you to be shot until you are dead. [_REGINALD bows -his head._] The sentence shall be executed immediately. I will allow -you five minutes to prepare yourself to meet your God! [_Takes out -watch. To RALPH._] Major! you will detail your men to execute the -order. [_RALPH whispers to CORIOLANUS and ADOLPHUS._] - -=Hen.= [_To REGINALD._] Reginald, this is terrible! The Colonel has no -right to use such haste. The evidence is purely circumstantial, and -should require deeper investigation! - -=Reg.= Nay, do not blame Colonel Morrell; he has simply done his duty. -Besides, why should the execution be deferred? Why should I longer drag -out a miserable existence? I will soon be happy, Henry, for I shall -meet Adrienne. But my child, Henry! my darling little Alice! Take her, -Henry--be a father to her--guide her footsteps in the path of honor -and virtue. Teach her not to despise her father--that he is innocent. -Teach her not to listen to the sneers of the world, but to place an -everlasting faith in the Father of us all, so that at the last she will -find peace and joy in the beautiful realms above! - -=Hen.= I accept the trust, Reginald. God grant I will be faithful to -it. [_They shake hands._] Have you any further wishes? - -=Reg.= Tell my father I am innocent--that will be sufficient--he will -believe me. Now leave me, Henry! - -=Hen.= Farewell, my brother! [_They embrace._] Farewell! [_REGINALD -kneels a moment with bowed head in silent prayer, after which he rises -with a quiet air._] - -=Reg.= I am ready, Colonel! [_MORRELL waves his hand. ADOLPHUS -blindfolds REGINALD, ties his hands behind him, and places him in -position, L. C. ADOLPHUS and CORIOLANUS take position on right._] - -=Ralph.= [_COLONEL MORRELL, R., HENRY, R. C., RALPH, R. C., CORIOLANUS -and ADOLPHUS up R., REGINALD, L. C. Pulls handkerchief from pocket._] -Carry arms! Ready! [_Holds handkerchief at arms length._] - - =Enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, R. 4 E., hurriedly._ - -=Dol.= [_C._] Hold! If you shoot that man you commit murder! He is -innocent! - -=Mor.= [_R. C._] What mean you? - -=Ralph.= Will you allow this interference, Colonel? - -=Mor.= Yes! God forbid that I should shoot an innocent man! [_To -DOLLERCLUTCH._] Your proofs! - -=Dol.= My proofs are crushing! There is no murder! [_REGINALD pulls off -handkerchief._] His wife lives. She is even now on her way to this camp! - -=Reg.= Adrienne lives? Thanks be to God! - -=Mor.= How do you know this? - -=Dol.= I overtook her on the road on my way to camp. She was almost -exhausted, and begged of me to run on and save Reginald from being shot -for her murder. I did so, and here I am, just in the nick of time! By -jingo, I feel so good, I could shake hands with the greatest scoundrel -that ever breathed. [_He shakes RALPH'S hand._] - -=Ralph.= Colonel, you surely will not be imposed upon by that rascal's -concocted story? - -=Mor.= Silence! If she is not dead, it was not the fault of the -intended murderer. He meant to kill her, and the intent is sufficient -for which to carry out the penalty! - -=Dol.= [_R. C._] Correct, Colonel! But that man is not the one who -attempted the murder. I swear that Reginald Maitland left the house -fifteen minutes before the shot was fired. I was watching one whom I -know to be the murderer, prowling around the house; but looking after -Maitland's departure, I lost sight of the other chap. Some time after -I heard the shot and rushed into the house and into the arms of the -attempted assassin, who was trying to escape. I struggled to overpower -him, but he was too much for me. [_Rubs his side and grimaces._] He got -away. I pursued, but he got off in the darkness. In my eagerness to -catch him, I fell into the hands of the rebels. - -=Mor.= And how did you get away from the rebels? - -=Dol.= This morning, by indomitable bravery and courage, I fought my -way out of their lines and hastened back here to camp. - -=Mor.= Who is the man that attempted the deed? - -=Dol.= The room was dark; the scoundrel had put out the light; I could -not recognize him! - -=Ralph.= [_Aside._] Safe! safe! - -=Mor.= How do you know, then, that it was not Maitland? - -=Dol.= In the struggle, the villain's ring slipped into my hand. Here -it is, Colonel! [_MORRELL takes and examines it._] Later I also found -this shoulder strap hanging to one of my buttons. [_MORRELL hands ring -to RALPH._] Colonel, do privates wear these things? - -=Ralph.= Colonel, here are some letters engraved on the seal--R. M. -Reginald Maitland! - -=Dol.= You lie! R. M.--Ralph Murdell, and here is where this belongs, -you cowardly assassin! [_He claps the shoulder strap on RALPH'S -shoulder, which is minus one._] - -=Mor.= Men, secure him! [_ADOLPHUS and CORIOLANUS do so. HENRY, -R., CORIOLANUS, RALPH and ADOLPHUS, R. C., COLONEL MORRELL, C., -DOLLERCLUTCH and REGINALD, L. C._] - -=Ralph.= [_To DOLLERCLUTCH._] Curse you for a meddlesome hound! - -=Dol.= I said I would, and so I did, by jingo! - - =Enter= _ADRIENNE, R. 4 E., out of breath; her head is bandaged; - she is very pale and exhausted. REGINALD takes C._ - -=Adri.= Reginald, my husband! - -=Reg.= Adrienne! [_She falls in his arms half fainting._] - -=Adri.= Safe! safe! You are safe! - -=Reg.= Yes, yes, my wife. Heaven is just! You have been spared to me by -His great mercy. - -=Mor.= [_Approaching them._] Pardon me, Maitland, for interrupting. -Allow me to ask you one question, Madam? [_She nods._] Who was it that -fired the shot? - -=Adri.= [_Pointing to RALPH._] There stands the coward who, failing -in his effort to make me unfaithful to my true and loyal husband, -attempted to murder me! - -=Mor.= [_To REGINALD, taking his hand._] Forgive me, Maitland, for -entertaining one moment the thought that you were guilty of such -cowardly villainy! I have wronged you deeply. - -=Reg.= I have naught to forgive, Colonel; you have acted only as a true -soldier, and, had you not done as you did, you would have neglected -your duty. - - =Enter= _HILDA, R. 4 E._ - -=Hil.= [_L. C., to ADRIENNE._] You are safe, Adrienne. You rushed from -the house in your frantic excitement. I feared your mind was wandering. - -=Adri.= Nay, Hilda! When I learned that my husband was accused of my -supposed murder, I dreaded the consequences, and determined to save him -ere it was too late. - -=Hil.= They knew not where you had fled. But I knew where your heart -would lead you, and I followed. - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] What a wealth of true womanly feeling is hidden by -her quiet demeanor! [_To HILDA._] Will you be kind enough to enlighten -us, how it was that we received news from the Chief of Police that -Adrienne was murdered? - -=Hil.= When we found her last night, we supposed her to be dead, -until this morning I thought I detected signs of life. I begged of -them to summon a physician at once. He pronounced her alive, but in a -death-like stupor. After hard work she was restored to consciousness. -Examination of her wound showed that the bullet had only grazed the -head, inflicting a scalp wound, but sufficient to effectually stun her. - -=Hen.= Kind Providence turned the bullet's fatal course, but it was -almost the means of bringing a noble life to an ignominious end. -[_Pointing to REGINALD._] - -=Hil.= Have you discovered the real culprit? - -=Hen.= Yes! he is there! [_Points to RALPH._] - -=Hil.= [_Staggers._] Ralph!--my husband? - -=Hen.= Your husband? Is that man your husband? - -=Hil.= Alas! yes! With what feelings of loathing must I make the -acknowledgment. - -=Ralph.= Bah! you she-devil! I never married you--you were only a -mistress! - -=Dol.= You lie, you black-hearted villain! - -=Hil.= [_Producing papers._] You could ruin my character in the eyes of -the world did I not possess this! [_Holding paper aloft._] The record -of my marriage to you. [_RALPH recoils._] - -=Dol.= [_To RALPH._] And I was the individual who saved that girl from -your base villainy! I--do you understand?--I! - -=Ralph.= Curse you! - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] Alas for my hopes! - - =Enter= _MORRIS and ANASTASIA, R. 4 E._ - -=Anas.= [_Going to ADRIENNE and embracing her._] You dear child! How -glad I am that we've found you at last! - -=Mor.= Heaven be praised, my daughter, I find you safe. [_He embraces -REGINALD._] My son! - -=Reg.= Father! - -=Mor.= I am overjoyed at this happy union of loving hearts. [_To -HILDA._] Alice, my child! [_Beckons her to come. To REGINALD._] -Reginald, God has been merciful to restore to us your lost sister--my -darling daughter, Alice! - -=Reg.= My sister? - -=All.= Your daughter? - -=Mor.= Yes! my daughter! [_Embraces her._] After many years of -suffering and anguish has Heaven sent me the joy that I thought was -buried in the past. [_Takes =Dollerclutch= by the hand._] Here is -the instrument of Providence who saved an innocent girl and brought -happiness to a father's heart. [_HILDA converses with HENRY._] Bless -your kind heart! How can I ever repay you? - -=Dol.= Tut! tut! tut! I acted only on business--only on business, -sir!--do you understand? Entirely on business--without any kindness -whatever. I am more than repaid when I see the happiness and joy that -surrounds me! [_He goes to ANASTASIA. Up L. C._] - -=Mor.= That man's father [_pointing to RALPH_] was the wretch who -stole the child from our parental bosom! His father and I aspired for -the hand of the same lady--I was the successful one. He, being of a -very passionate and revengeful nature, darkened our domestic bliss by -stealing from the cradle our youngest child, Alice! I did not think I -had an enemy in the world who could be guilty of such baseness, until -last night I received the proof which exposed him and restored to me a -daughter. All doubts of her identity were removed by the discovery of a -mole behind her left ear, which we remembered our child's having. - -=Morrell.= I congratulate you, sir, upon your new found joy! The mills -of justice grind slowly sometimes, but they are sure. Righteousness -and truth will always receive its blessed reward. [_To CORIOLANUS and -ADOLPHUS._] Men, remove the depraved scoundrel to the guard house -and see that he is strongly guarded. [_They do so._ =Exit= _RALPH, -CORIOLANUS and ADOLPHUS, R. 2 E._] It is a pity to mar the happiness of -this hour with the presence of such a vile and cowardly rascal! [_To -REGINALD._] Maitland, in consideration of the terrible mistake and -injustice by which I almost sacrificed your life, I hereby revoke the -order for your disgrace and restore you to honorable recognition by -promoting you to the position of Major! - -=Hen.= Bravo, Colonel! - -=Dol.= Good! your heart is in the right place, Colonel! [_Aside._] And -so is mine! [_Turning to ANASTASIA._] - -=Reg.= [_Taking MORRELL by the hand._] Thanks, Colonel, thanks! - -=Morrell.= Do not thank me, Maitland; you are more than deserving. Had -you accepted promotion before when it was offered, for your gallant -conduct and bravery on the field, you would long since have been even -my superior officer. [_A shot is heard._] What's that? [_All are -alarmed and look off entrance._] - - =Enter= _ADOLPHUS and CORIOLANUS, R. 2 E._ - -=Adol.= [_R._] He's done it, Colonel!--he's done it! - -=Morrell.= Done what? Who? - -=Adol.= Ralph Murdell! He pulled a revolver and shot himself through -the head. - -=Cor.= Yes! His rash act has precipitated him into eternity--he's dead! - -=Morrell.= [_Shrugs his shoulders._] Well, he has only saved me the -stern duty of condemning him to such a fate. - -=Hen.= [_Aside._] His act has freed Hilda from the yoke of misery and -despair. [_Commotion outside. Voices heard crying_ "Hurrah!" _in the -distance._] - -=Morrell.= What means this excitement? Dollerclutch, go and learn the -cause! [=Exit= _DOLLERCLUTCH, L. 2 E., hastily._] They are yelling -hurrah! There must be some good news from the front. They seem wild -with joy! - - =Re-enter= _DOLLERCLUTCH, L. 2 E._ - -=Dol.= [_Rushing around excitedly._] Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah! - -=Morrell.= [_Stopping him._] Give us the news. - -=Dol.= Hurrah! The war is over! Lee has surrendered to Grant! - -=Omnes.= Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah! [_Wild excitement and joy._] - -=Reg.= [_Embracing ADRIENNE._] Then is our happiness complete. We shall -never part again. - -=Dol.= And I will, at last, leave my bachelorhood and worship at the -shrine of my charming Anastasia! - -=Anas.= [_Falls in his arms._] You dear man! - -=Cor.= [_Aside._] She throws true nobility aside [_pointing to -himself_] for such a presumptuous old fool! Oh! woman! woman! [_Sighs -deeply and walks aside._] - -=Hen.= [_Leading HILDA forward. To MORRIS._] If you will allow me, let -me add my joy to the already o'erflowing cup! Hilda has--[_HILDA pulls -his coat._] I beg your pardon--Alice has promised to administer to my -future joy, with your permission! - -=Morris.= [_Joins their hands._] Bless you, my children! - -=Adri.= [_To REGINALD._] Dearest Reginald! The joy I have found in the -new born love for my noble husband will make me never regret that it -was by force of impulse that I was led to accept your heart and hand! - -=Reg.= Let the agony of the past be buried in the joy of the present. -[_To audience._] And if you will forgive the impulse that led me from -my post of duty, there will not be a cloud to obscure the sunshine of -our future happiness. - -=Morrell.= The end has justified the act. - -=Dol.= I, too, have left my post of duty--but let the result be an -extenuation of my desertion. - -=Morrell.= [_Takes him by hand._] Yes! I overlook it freely! and I feel -satisfied that He, who watches over us all, will not censure us for -being led BY FORCE OF IMPULSE! - - =Tableau.= - - MORRIS. REG. - - COL. M. ADRI. - - HENRY. ANAS. - - HILDA. DOLLER. - - ADOL. CORIO. - - _R._ _C._ _L._ - - - =Curtain.= - - - - -NEW PLAYS. - -PRICE 15 CENTS EACH. - - -THE TRIPLE WEDDING. - -A DRAMA, IN THREE ACTS, BY CHARLES BARNARD. - -Four male, four female characters--Leading juvenile man, comic old man, -first and second comedians; leading juvenile lady, two walking ladies -and servant. Plain room scene; modern costumes. - -The plot is novel and ingenious, the situations well worked out, and -the interest continuous. - -SYNOPSIS.--Act I., The Trust; Act II., The Search; Act III., The -Wedding. Time of performance, one hour and a quarter. - - -SECOND SIGHT; OR, YOUR FORTUNE FOR A DOLLAR. - -A FARCICAL COMEDY, IN ONE ACT, BY BERNARD HERBERT. - -Four male and one female characters--Light comedian, low comedian, -Irishman, Mexican nobleman and juvenile lady. Scene: A Clairvoyant's -Parlor in New York. Time of playing, one hour. - -The frantic efforts of Mr. Birdwhistle, a timorous music teacher, to -escape the fury of Don Fiasco de Caramba, an untamed Mexican; the -dismal predicaments of Dionysius O. Rourké and the clairvoyant scenes -will keep the audience in a continuous ripple. Companies in search of a -serious piece should NOT select this play. - - -WANTED: A CONFIDENTIAL CLERK. - -A FARCE, IN ONE ACT, BY W. F. CHAPMAN. - -Six male characters, _viz._: Eccentric old man, with a partiality for -proverbs; Irishman, "dude," shabby genteel comedian, talkative "sport," -and clerk. No scenery required. Time of playing, thirty minutes. - -A capital farce, containing none but "star" parts, with scope for -easy character acting, racy dialogue, funny situations and comical -"business." - - -A LESSON IN ELEGANCE. - -A COMEDY IN ONE ACT, BY BERNARD HERBERT. - -Four female characters--A butterfly of fashion, comic servant, old -lady and unsophisticated young widow. The scene (interior) is laid at -Newport in the height of the season. - -Consists purely of light comedy, is bright and brisk in action, with -plenty of "business," and has a _dénouement_ as unexpected as it is -welcome. The play can be effectively staged and costumed, if desired. -Time of representation, thirty minutes. - - -BY FORCE OF IMPULSE. - -A DRAMA, IN FIVE ACTS, BY H. V. VOGT. - -Nine male and three female characters, _viz._: Leading and second -juvenile men, old man, genteel villain, walking gentleman, first and -second light comedians, heavy character, low comedian, leading and -second juvenile ladies and comic old maid. - -A thoroughly good drama, worthy of the best talent. The action takes -place during the period of the late civil war, the scene being laid -partly in the army. Well adapted to the use of G. A. R. posts, though -not confined to them in interest. The plot is interesting and well -developed; the situations are striking; the "business" is effective, -and every tableau will fetch an _encore._ Time of representation, two -hours and a half. - - * * * * * - -Copies of any of the above Plays will be mailed, post-paid, to any -address, on receipt of the price. - - HAROLD ROORBACH, Publisher, - 9 MURRAY STREET, NEW YORK. - - - - -ROORBACH'S DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE. - - - - -ILLUSTRATED TABLEAUX FOR AMATEURS. - - -A new series of _Tableaux Vivants_, by MARTHA C. WELD. In this series -each description is accompanied with a full page illustration of the -scene to be represented. The introduction of Part I. is the most -complete and practical treatment of the subject ever written. The books -are the best of the kind published, and should be in the hands of -everybody about to arrange an entertainment of this kind. - - -_NOW READY._ - -=PART I.--MISCELLANEOUS TABLEAUX.=--Contains General Introduction, 12 -Tableaux and 14 Illustrations. =Price, 25 Cents.= - -=PART II.--MISCELLANEOUS TABLEAUX.=--Contains Introduction, 12 Tableaux -and 12 Illustrations. =Price, 25 Cents.= - - -A Few Opinions. - - "Excellent Manuals."--_Book Chat._ - - "Two Pretty Little Volumes."--_Cincinnati Inquirer._ - - "Admirably suited for the purpose intended."--_Albany Argus._ - - "Mrs. WELD is a well known adept in this kind of - entertainment."--_New York Evangelist._ - - "These small volumes form a complete assistant to any one desirous - of giving tableaux."--_St. Louis Republican._ - - "They will be helpful to young people preparing this pleasant - method of entertainment."--_Christian Register._ - - "Will be of much practical use and value to schools and persons - interested in social amusements for church or home."--_N. Y. School - Journal._ - - "They will be of service for private entertainments. The directions - as to dress and posing are full, and the illustrations will be very - helpful."--_Hartford Courant._ - - "They contain all the directions which can possibly be necessary to - enable a company of amateurs to successfully present a number of - tableaux of a varied character."--_Troy Times._ - - "When we finished the second we wished we had a couple more. They - are as indispensable to the amateur as a salary and a return ticket - are to the professional."--_Puck._ - - "As there is just now a revival of the olden time amusement of - tableaux, these two little volumes come in just at the right time. - Nothing pertaining to tableaux has been forgotten or left out. To - persons interested in this kind of amusement, the little books will - prove invaluable."--_New Orleans Picayune._ - - "To any one who contemplates indulging in tableaux, these little - books of Mrs. Weld's will be invaluable. So clearly does she - explain the minutić, that a manager under her guidance may feel all - the confidence which experience can bring. The writer is especially - explicit in showing how the effects of scenery and costume may - be secured with the simplest of material, so that the degree of - expense may be made a matter of choice."--_Buffalo Express._ - - - - -MISCELLANEOUS GOODS. - - -==> _An illustrated descriptive price list of miscellaneous articles, -Wigs, Beards, etc., and Scenery, will be sent to any address on receipt -of a stamp._ <== - - Lightning for Private Theatricals $0 25 - " Flash Box 50 - Colored Tableau Lights 25 - " " Fire, per lb. 1 75 - " " " " by Exp. 1 50 - Magnesium Lights 25 - Carmine 30 - Dutch Pink 25 - Ruddy Rouge 30 - Mongolian 30 - Fuller's Earth 30 - Burnt Cork 40 - Paste Powder 30 - Nose Putty 25 - Lip Rouge, domestic 25 - " imported 40 - Clown White 40 - Dry Whiting 25 - Powdered Antimony 30 - " Blue 25 - Spirit Gum 30 - Email Noir 30 - Joining Paste 25 - Moustache Masks 15 - Water Cosmetique 25 - Cocoa Butter 25 - Multiform Cream 50 - " Powder 25 - Artist's Stomps 15 - Hares' Feet 50 - Powder Puffs 25 - Miniature Puffs 15 - India Ink 10 - Lining Brushes 5 - Cosmetique 25 - Rouge de Theatre 25 - Blanc de Perle 25 - Hair Powder 50 - Eyebrow Pencils 25 - Bleu pour Veins 75 - Fard Indien 75 - Make-up Boxes $1.50, 4.00 and 5 00 - Grease Paints, 30 tints, 8 in. sticks: - Flesh Colors 35 - Lining Colors 20 - Grease Paints, set of 9 necessary colors 1 00 - Scenery, Printed on Paper, per set $7 50 to 12 00 - Scenery, Painted on Canvas, per set $8 00 to 75 00 - -==> _Canvas Scenery is delivered by Express only. Paper Scenes and the -Make-up Boxes can be sent by mail at a slightly increased expense for -postage._ <== - - -THEATRICAL WIGS. - - -_LADIES' WIGS._ - - Court $6 00 - Ringlet 5 50 - Frou-Frou 5 50 - Bourgeoise 7 50 - Peasant Girl 7 50 - Mother-in-Law 5 50 - Witch 3 75 - Short Curly 5 50 - " with Parting 6 25 - Plain Long Hair 7 50 - Wig made up in Present Fashion 5 00 - Wench 5 00 - Frontals 2 00 - - -_GENTLEMEN'S WIGS._ - - Court Wig, with Bag or Tie $4 00 - Rip Van Winkle 4 00 - Peasant 4 00 - Monk 4 00 - Judge 7 50 - Bald 4 00 - Comic Bald 4 00 - Chinaman 3 00 - Crop 4 00 - Dress 4 00 - Indian 3 50 - Fright 5 00 - Irish 4 00 - Yankee 4 00 - Flow 5 00 - Scalp 2 00 - Negro 1 00 - " Extra Quality 1 50 - " White or Grey 1 50 - " with Top Knot 1 50 - - -BEARDS, WHISKERS & MOUSTACHES - - Full Beard, without Moustache, on Wire $1 75 - " " " Ventilated 2 50 - " with " on Wire 2 00 - " " " Ventilated 2 75 - Side Whiskers and Moustache on Wire 1 50 - Short Side Whiskers on Wire 75 - " " " Ventilated 1 00 - Mutton Chop Whiskers, Ventilated 1 50 - Chin Beard, Ventilated 1 00 - Moustaches on Wire 35 - " Ventilated 40 - Imperials 25 - Throat Whiskers 75 - - -WIGS AND BEARDS TO RENT. - -For terms and discounts see separate list, which will be mailed to any -address on receipt of a stamp. - - - - -BY FORCE OF IMPULSE. - -A DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS, BY H. V. VOGT. - -Price, 15 Cents. - - -Nine male, three female characters, _viz._: Leading and Second Juvenile -Men, Old Man, Genteel Villain, Walking Gentleman, First and Second -Light Comedians, Heavy Character, Low Comedian, Leading and Second -Juvenile Ladies and Comic Old Maid. Time of playing, Two hours and a -half. - - -SYNOPSIS OF EVENTS. - -ACT I. LOVE VS. IMPULSE.--Dollerclutch's office.--A fruitless -journey, a heap of accumulated business and a chapter of unparalleled -impudence.--News from the front.--A poor girl's trouble and a lawyer's -big heart.--Hilda's sad story.--"I'll see this thing through if it -costs me a fortune!"--A sudden departure in search of a clue.--The -meeting of friends.--One of nature's noblemen.--Maitland betrays his -secret by a slip of the tongue.--The ball at Beachwood.--Two spooneys, -fresh from college, lose their heads and their hearts.--"Squashed, -by Jupiter!"--Trusting innocence and polished villainy.--The -interrupted tryst.--An honest man's avowal.--A picture of charming -simplicity.--Murdell and Hilda meet face to face.--"I dare you to make -another victim!"--A scoundrel's discomfiture.--TABLEAU. - -ACT II. THE SEPARATION.--The Maitland homestead.--Anastasia's -doubts.--A warm welcome and its icy reception.--Forebodings and -doubts.--Father and son.--Searching questions.--A domestic storm -and a parent's command.--A foiled villain's wrath.--Enlisting for -the war.--The collapse of the cowards.--"It's no use, 'Dolphy, the -jig's up!"--Hilda's sympathy and Adrienne's silent despair.--The -result of impulse.--The father pleads for his son.--Anastasia and -Dollerclutch.--Coriolanus comes to grief.--Good and bad news.--Husband -and wife.--Reginald demands an explanation.--A hand without a -heart.--The separation.--A new recruit.--Too late; the roll is -signed.--TABLEAU. - -ACT III. DUTY VS. IMPULSE.--Four years later.--A camp in the -army.--Longings.--"Only six miles from home!"--The skeleton in -the closet.--A father's yearning for his child.--A woman-hater -in love.--Dollerclutch's dream.--A picture of camp life and -fun.--Coriolanus has his revenge.--News from home.--Dollerclutch makes -a big find. "Eureka!"--Proofs of Hilda's parentage and marriage.--A -happy old lawyer.--"I'll take them to Hilda!"--Detailed for duty.--A -soldier's temptation.--The sentinel deserts his post.--The snake in the -grass.--"At last, I can humble his pride!" - -ACT IV. THE RECONCILIATION AND SEQUEL.--At Reginald's home.--News from -the army.--"Grant is not the man to acknowledge defeat!"--Adrienne and -Hilda.--False pride is broken.--The reconciliation.--"Will Reginald -forgive me?"--Dollerclutch brings joy to Hilda's heart.--"You are -the daughter of Morris Maitland!"--The stolen documents and the -snake in the grass.--"Hang me if I don't see this thing through!"--A -letter to the absent one.--Face to face.--The barrier of pride swept -down.--"Reginald, I love you; come back!"--The happy reunion.--An -ominous cloud.--"I have deserted my post; the penalty is death. I must -return ere my absence is discovered!"--The wolf in the sheepfold.--A -wily tempter foiled.--A villain's rage.--"Those words have sealed your -doom!"--The murder and the escape.--Dollerclutch arrives too late.--The -pursuit. - -ACT V. DIVINE IMPULSE.--In camp.--Maitland on duty.--The charge -of desertion and the examination.--"I knew not what I did!"--The -colonel's lenity.--Disgrace.--News of Adrienne's murder is brought to -camp.--Circumstantial evidence fastens the murder upon Reginald.--The -court-martial.--Convicted and sentenced to be shot.--Preparations for -the execution.--"God knows I am innocent!"--Dollerclutch arrives in -the nick of time.--"If you shoot that man you commit murder!"--The -beginning of the end.--"Adrienne lives!"--A villain's terror.--Adrienne -appears on the scene.--"There is the attempted assassin!"--Divine -impulse.--The reward of innocence and the punishment of villainy.--Good -news.--"Hurrah, the war is over; Lee has surrendered to Grant!"--The -happy _denouement_ and _finale._--TABLEAU. - - -_Copies mailed, post-paid, to any address on receipt of the advertised -price._ - - HAROLD ROORBACH, Publisher, - 9 MURRAY ST., NEW YORK. - - - - -THE ETHIOPIAN DRAMA. - -PRICE 15 CENTS EACH. - - - 1 Robert Make-Airs. - 2 Box and Cox. - 3 Mazeppa. - 4 United States Mail. - 5 The Coopers. - 6 Old Dad's Cabin. - 7 The Rival Lovers. - 8 The Sham Doctor. - 9 Jolly Millers. - 10 Villikins and his Dinah. - 11 The Quack Doctor. - 12 The Mystic Spell. - 13 The Black Statue. - 14 Uncle Jeff. - 15 The Mischievous Nigger. - 16 The Black Shoemaker. - 17 The Magic Penny. - 18 The Wreck. - 19 Oh, Hush; or, The Virginny Cupids. - 20 The Portrait Painter. - 21 The Hop of Fashion. - 22 Bone Squash. - 23 The Virginia Mummy. - 24 Thieves at the Mill. - 25 Comedy of Errors. - 26 Les Miserables. - 27 New Year's Calls. - 28 Troublesome Servant. - 29 Great Arrival. - 30 Rooms to Let. - 31 Black Crook Burlesque. - 32 Ticket Taker. - 33 Hypochondriac. - 34 William Tell. - 35 Rose Dale. - 36 Feast. - 37 Fenian Spy. - 38 Jack's the Lad. - 39 Othello. - 40 Camille. - 41 Nobody's Son. - 42 Sports on a Lark. - 43 Actor and Singer. - 44 Shylock. - 45 Quarrelsome Servants. - 46 Haunted House. - 47 No Cure, No Pay. - 48 Fighting for the Union. - 49 Hamlet the Dainty. - 50 Corsican Twins. - 51 Deaf--in a Horn. - 52 Challenge Dance. - 53 De Trouble begins at Nine. - 54 Scenes at Gurney's. - 55 16,000 Years Ago. - 56 Stage-struck Darkey. - 57 Black Mail. - 58 Highest Price for Old Clothes. - 59 Howls from the Owl Train. - 60 Old Hunks. - 61 The Three Black Smiths. - 62 Turkeys in Season. - 63 Juba. - 64 A Night wid Brudder Bones. - 65 Dixie. - 66 King Cuffee. - 67 Old Zip Coon. - 68 Cooney in de Hollow. - 69 Porgy Joe. - 70 Gallus Jake. - 71 De Coon Hunt. - 72 Don Cato. - 73 Sambo's Return. - 74 Under de Kerosene. - 75 Mysterious Stranger. - 76 De Debbil and Dr. Faustum. - 77 De Old Gum Game. - 78 Hunk's Wedding Day. - 79 De Octoroon. - 80 De Old Kentucky Home. - 81 Lucinda's Wedding. - 82 Mumbo Jum. - 83 De Creole Ball. - 84 Mishaps of Cćsar Crum. - 85 Pete's Luck. - 86 Pete and Ephraim. - 87 Jube Hawkins. - 88 De Darkey's Dream. - 89 Chris. Johnson. - 90 Scippio Africanus. - 91 De Ghost ob Bone Squash. - 92 De Darkey Tragedian. - 93 Possum Fat. - 94 Dat Same Ole Coon. - 95 Popsey Dean. - 96 De Rival Mokes. - 97 Uncle Tom. - 98 Desdemonum. - 99 Up Head. - 100 De Maid ob de Hunkpuncas. - 101 De Trail ob Blood. - 102 De Debbil and de Maiden. - 103 De Cream ob Tenors. - 104 Old Uncle Billy. - 105 An Elephant on Ice. - 106 A Manager in a Fix. - 107 Bones at a Raffle. - 108 Aunty Chloe. - 109 Dancing Mad. - 110 Julianna Johnson. - 111 An Unhappy Pair. - - -THE AMATEUR AND VARIETY STAGE. - -PRICE 15 CENTS EACH. - - Afloat and Ashore. - Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp. - All's Fair in Love and War. - Bad Temper, A - Babes in the Wood, The - Blue-Beard; or, Female Curiosity. - Caught in his own Toils. - Closing of the "Eagle." - Dark Deeds. - Eligible Situation, An - Fairy Freaks. - Fireside Diplomacy. - Frog Prince, The - Furnished Apartments. - Girls of the Period, The - Happy Dispatch, The - Harlequin Little Red Riding Hood. - Harvest Storm, The - His First Brief. - Ingomar (Burlesque). - Jack, the Giant-Killer. - Last Drop, The - Katherine and Petruchio (Burlesque). - Last Lilly, The - Little Red Riding Hood. - Little Silver Hair and the Three Bears. - Love (Burlesque). - Loves of Little Bo-Peep and Little Boy, The - Lyrical Lover, A - Marry in Haste and Repent at Leisure. - Matched, But Not Mated. - Maud's Command. - Medical Man, A - Mischievous Bob. - Monsieur Pierre. - Mothers and Fathers. - Out of the Depths. - Penelope Ann. - Pet Lamb, The - Poisoned Darkies, The - Result of a Nap, The - Robin Hood; or, The Merry Men of Sherwood Forest. - Slighted Treasures. - Three Temptations, The - Tragedy Transmogrified. - Two Gentlemen at Mivart's. - Virtue Victorious. - Wearing of the Green. - Wine Cup, The - Women's Rights. - Wrong Battle, The - - -VARIETY. - - All in der Family. - Big Bananna, The - Decree of Divorce, The - Dot Mad Tog. - Dot Quied Lotchings. - Dot Matrimonial Advertisement. - Gay Old Man am I, A - Leedle Misdake A - Mad Astronomer, A - Lonely Pollywog of the Mill Pond, The - Mulcahy's Cat. - Ould Man's Coat Tails, The - Spelling Match, The - - - _Any of the above will be sent by mail on receipt of the price, by_ - HAROLD ROORBACH, Publisher, - Successor to ROORBACH & COMPANY. - - P. 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