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diff --git a/old/54535-h/54535-h.htm b/old/54535-h/54535-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index f7c8ff4..0000000 --- a/old/54535-h/54535-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4262 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" - "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> - <head> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> - <title> - The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Changed Valentines, by Elizabeth F. 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Guptill - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: The Changed Valentines - And Other Plays for St. Valentine's Day - -Author: Elizabeth F. Guptill - -Release Date: April 10, 2017 [EBook #54535] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE CHANGED VALENTINES *** - - - - -Produced by Emmy, MFR and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was -produced from images generously made available by The -Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<div class="figcenter" style="width: 430px;"> - -<img src="images/cover.jpg" width="430" height="700" alt="Cover image" /> - -<p class="caption">NO PLAYS EXCHANGED.</p> - -<p class="caption"><span class="smcap">Baker’s Edition of Plays</span></p> - -<p class="caption">The Changed Valentines</p> - -<p class="caption">Price, 25 Cents</p> - -<p class="caption">WALTER H. BAKER & CO. BOSTON</p> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="bbox"> - -<p class="center larger">A. W. Pinero’s Plays</p> - -<p class="center">Price, 50 Cents Each</p> - -<div class="lines"> - -<p><span class="title">THE AMAZONS</span> Farce in Three Acts. Seven males, five females. -Costumes, modern; scenery, not -difficult. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE CABINET MINISTER</span> Farce in Four Acts. Ten -males, nine females. Costumes, -modern society; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">DANDY DICK</span> Farce in Three Acts. Seven males, four females. -Costumes, modern; scenery, two interiors. -Plays two hours and a half.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE GAY LORD QUEX</span> Comedy in Four Acts. Four males, -ten females. Costumes, modern; -scenery, two interiors and an exterior. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">HIS HOUSE IN ORDER</span> Comedy in Four Acts. Nine males, -four females. Costumes, modern; -scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE HOBBY HORSE</span> Comedy in Three Acts. Ten males, -five females. Costumes, modern; -scenery easy. Plays two hours and a half.</p> - -<p><span class="title">IRIS</span> Drama in Five Acts. Seven males, seven females. Costumes, -modern; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">LADY BOUNTIFUL</span> Play in Four Acts. Eight males, seven -females. Costumes, modern; scenery, -four interiors, not easy. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">LETTY</span> Drama in Four Acts and an Epilogue. Ten males, five -females. Costumes, modern; scenery complicated. -Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE MAGISTRATE</span> Farce in Three Acts. Twelve males, -four females. Costumes, modern; -scenery, all interior. Plays two hours and a half.</p> - -</div> - -<p class="center">Sent prepaid on receipt of price by</p> - -<p class="center">Walter H. Baker & Company<br /> -No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts</p> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p> - -<p class="titlepage larger">The Changed Valentines</p> - -<p class="center">And Other Plays for St. Valentine’s Day</p> - -<p class="titlepage">By<br /> -ELIZABETH F. GUPTILL</p> - -<p class="center smaller"><i>Author of “A Troublesome Flock,” “Little Acts<br /> -for Little Actors,” etc.</i></p> - -<p class="titlepage">BOSTON<br /> -WALTER H. BAKER & CO.<br /> -1918</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span></p> - -<h1>The Changed Valentines<br /> -<span class="smaller">And Other Plays</span></h1> - -<hr /> - -<h2>CONTENTS</h2> - -<table summary="Contents"> - <tr> - <td></td> - <td class="right smaller">PAGE</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td><span class="smcap">The Changed Valentines</span>, 3 males, 4 females</td> - <td class="right"><a href="#The_Changed_Valentines">3</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td><span class="smcap">A Romance of St. Valentine’s Day</span>, 1 male, 2 females</td> - <td class="right"><a href="#A_Romance_of_St_Valentines">25</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td><span class="smcap">The Queen of Hearts</span>, 11 males, 13 females</td> - <td class="right"><a href="#The_Queen_of_Hearts">45</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<div class="figcenter" style="width: 200px;"> -<img src="images/i-004.jpg" width="200" height="150" alt="Decorative: tragedy and comedy masks" /> -</div> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Copyright, 1917, by Walter H. Baker & Co.</span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span></p> - -<p id="The_Changed_Valentines" class="center larger">The Changed Valentines</p> - -<p class="center">In Two Acts</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span></p> - -<h2>The Changed Valentines</h2> - -<h3>CHARACTERS</h3> - -<div class="container"> - -<ul class="characters"> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Bobby</span>, <i>the small boy of the family</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Evelyn</span> }</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Helen</span> } <i>his older sisters</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Louise</span>, <i>his younger sister</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Mrs. Winston</span>, <i>his mother</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Bert</span>, <i>his older brother</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Mr. Bertram Elliott</span>, <i>his bachelor uncle</i>.</li> -</ul> - -</div> - -<h3>ACT I</h3> - -<p class="scene">SCENE.—<i>The setting is the same for both Acts—a living-room -or library.</i></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(As the curtain rises <span class="ch">Bert</span> is sitting at a desk, evidently -just finishing a letter or note.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> There! I’ll just tuck it in here with the -valentine, and let her get both together. <span class="dr">(Does so, and -directs envelope.)</span> Miss Eloise V. Worthington! A -pretty name, and a stately one, but somehow I like -Winston better. I wonder if she will?</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Finishes addressing it, and sits looking at it.)</p> - -<p>Enter <span class="ch">Bobby</span>, in a hurry.</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Bert! Frank’s out here in his brother’s -buzzcart, and wants to see you. He says you can ride -up-town if you’ll get a move on.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> I will that.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Steps out, comes back through, putting on his coat.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(with a grin)</span>. Going bare-headed?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(putting hand to head)</span>. Why, I thought I put -it on! Run and get it, kid.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Exit <span class="ch">Bobby</span>. <span class="ch">Bert</span> paws around on table, upsetting -everything.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Here’s your lid.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Thanks. Where in the name of common -sense are my gloves? I put them here for Mother to -mend, last night.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> They’re sticking out of your pocket.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> So they are. So long, kid.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Hurries out, forgetting valentine. <span class="ch">Bobby</span> spies it and -picks it up.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Gee! It’s a valentine for Eloise. Bet it ain’t -as pretty as the one I bought. There won’t no silly girl -get it, either. I wonder——</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(He starts to take it out of envelope, hears some one -coming, and runs out, dropping it. There should be -a curtain, apparently separating two rooms, and behind -this <span class="ch">Bobby</span> hides.)</p> - -<p>Enter <span class="ch">Uncle Bertram</span>; goes to desk.</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> <span class="dr">(addressing his envelope)</span>. Well, well! -That’s the fortieth valentine I’ve sent Ellen. I sent the -first, I remember, when I was a three-year-old, in kilts, -and she a baby in little white dresses and blue shoes. Ha, -hum! Such is life! Here we are, both middle-aged -people, though blest if I feel so! If she’d only answered -that twentieth one, I might not have been sending the -fortieth. I wonder—— <span class="dr">(He toys with letter.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. Winston</span> <span class="dr">(looking in)</span>. Oh, here you are, Bertram. -You’re wanted on the ’phone.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> <span class="dr">(rising)</span>. I’ll be right there.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(He hurries out, and <span class="ch">Bobby</span> hurries in, and picks up -the dropped letter.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(going to desk)</span>. Gee! I’ve thought of the -best joke! This ain’t sealed, either. I’m a-going to -change ’em. Thirty-nine valentines are enough for one -lady to get from the same man, anybody’d know! -<span class="dr">(Makes the change, and seals both letters.)</span> There! I -guess a “change’ll be a difference,” as Aunt Emily says, -and Eloise oughtn’t to care. This one’s from Bert, too. -Didn’t know Uncle Bertram ever signed his name Bert. -Jumping frogs! He’s coming!</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Hides again, <span class="ch">Bert’s</span> letter in his hand. His uncle -takes the letter, and sees it is sealed.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Funny! I thought I hadn’t sealed that. -Getting absent-minded, I guess.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Puts it in pocket, and goes out, whistling.)</p> - -<p>Enter <span class="ch">Evelyn</span> and <span class="ch">Helen</span>. Both start toward desk. -<span class="ch">Helen</span> reaches it first.</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Oh, dear, Helen, won’t you let me have the -desk a minute? I just want to address a letter.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> So do I, and I’m in an awful rush.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> What is it? A valentine?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Is yours?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Well, why don’t you address it, or else let -me have the desk?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen</span> <span class="dr">(rising)</span>. You may have it, Evvie. I’ll wait. -<span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Evelyn</span> seats herself, toys with pen.)</span> Well, why don’t -you do it, if you’re in such a rush? <span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Evelyn</span> laughs.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> For the same reason you don’t, I guess. -Here! <span class="dr">(Hands her a fountain pen.)</span> You can do yours -on the table. Then we won’t bother each other.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> I’ll let you see who mine is addressed to, if -you will, too.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> No, thanks. <span class="dr">(Both hesitate, laugh, and -<span class="ch">Helen</span> takes hers to table. Both write hastily. A crash -is heard, followed by a loud scream, and both girls rush -out. <span class="ch">Bobby</span> comes out of his hiding-place, and changes<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span> -valentines swiftly, sealing both, then darts back as he -hears girls coming. They enter.)</span> Katy will scare us to -death some day. Did you ever see any one who could -get so many tumbles?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Or smash so many dishes? No, I never did. -<span class="dr">(Takes up valentine.)</span> Why, I don’t remember sealing -this.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Nor I mine. I suppose the—the Irish -earthquake in an American kitchen put it out of our -heads. Want me to mail your letter? I’m going out.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> No, thanks. I’m going out, too, and this -envelope is private property.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> H’m! I could make a pretty good guess as -to the name on the outside. It’s “Pet,” of course.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Really, it’s mean to call Phil that. He hates -it so!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Then his mamma shouldn’t have named him -Philip Etheridge, when she knew his last name must always -be Tuttle. Then he is such a pet. I always want -to see a big lawn bonnet on those golden curls of his, and -see his dear little self in ruffled white dresses, with short -socks and blue slippers. Of course the little darling -wants a valentine! But I should think he’d make you -tired!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> He’s lots nicer than that homely Jack Hamilton. -All he thinks of is baseball.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Well, he isn’t soft and sentimental, and—mushy -like Pet. I don’t care to lead a nice little poodle-dog -around by a blue ribbon.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> You’d prefer a bulldog?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> I certainly should. Coming out to mail your -precious epistle?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> I am.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Come on, then. <span class="dr">(Both pass out.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(coming forth again)</span>. Now maybe I’ll have a -chance. No, here comes Lou!</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Dives out of sight again.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise</span> <span class="dr">(entering)</span>. I saw you, Bobby Winston! -What you hiding for?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(stepping out)</span>. I ain’t hiding.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Well, you were. Thought you could jump -out and scare some one, I s’pose.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(as she seats herself at desk)</span>. Who you writing -to?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Nobody. I’m sending valentines.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Valentines? More than one? Helen and -Evvie only sent one apiece, and I’m going to send one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Oh, Bobby, who to?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> That ain’t good grammar.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> And that is, I s’pose. H’m!</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(She takes two envelopes and tucks in valentines, and -seals them.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Who you sending ’em to, Lou?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I shan’t tell. Go ’way, Bobby, so’s I can -get ’em done.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Tell me who they’re going to?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> No siree!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I’ll give you my glass agate if you will, -Louie.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> What you want to know for? To tell somebody, -and get me laughed at?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> No, I won’t tell, honest Injun!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Well, the pretty one goes to Reginald, and -the homely one goes to Freddie, ’cause I’m mad on him!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> What you mad at Freddie for?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> ’Cause he said Valentine’s Day was silly, and -he shouldn’t send one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Ho, ho! And you wanted him to send you -one!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> No such thing! He can keep his old valentines, -if he wants to. I’m going to send a lovely one to -Reginald. He’s got sense enough to ’preciate it, maybe. -And I got a horrid comic one of a miser, all ragged and -thin, gnawing a bare bone, like a dog, with his money all -piled up around him.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Mamma doesn’t like us to send comic ones.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Don’t you tell, Bobby Winston!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> What’ll you give me not to? My aggie back -again?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I haven’t got it yet to give back again. Yes, -keep it if you want to, but don’t tell. If you do, I’ll never -tell you anything again, so there, now!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Well, I won’t, but Mamma wouldn’t like it. -You know she wouldn’t.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Maybe she wouldn’t like all you’ve been up -to, either, Sir Robert.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> What you know about what I’ve been up to?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Oh, you have! You have been up to some -mischief! Now if you tell, I will.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> You can’t, for you don’t know it to tell, -smarty. Say, Lou, let’s see the funny one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> It isn’t funny. It’s just horrid, and I meant -it to be. Besides, they’re sealed now. Keep still while -I direct them. <span class="dr">(She writes. <span class="ch">Bobby</span> gets behind her, and -shows wild enjoyment. <span class="ch">Louise</span> rises.)</span> There! Now -I’ll go mail ’em. Have you sent any, Bobby?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Not me. I’ve got too many sisters to want -to send valentines to girls. <span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Louise</span> goes out. <span class="ch">Bobby</span> -seats himself at desk.)</span> See if I can get mine sent some -time to-day. <span class="dr">(Writes.)</span> I suppose I’d better mail the -one Bert forgot. Gee! But wasn’t it good! Louise -mixed up her own, and she’s sent the pretty one to Fred, -and the other to Reginald. Good one on her! It seems -to be catching. I’ll go out and mail mine before anything -happens to it. It’s a poor day for valentines. Sort of -mixy, somehow. Six of ’em, all going wrong! Gee! -Mine’s the lucky seventh. Wish I was a bumblebee, and -could follow some of ’em. Wouldn’t it be fun! Well, -Papa says a boy ought to be a good mixer. Guess I’m -all right. <span class="dr">(Goes to door, and calls.)</span> Mamma!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> <span class="dr">(outside)</span>. What is it, Bobby?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(as she enters)</span>. Here’s a letter Bert left on -the desk, all addressed and sealed. Shall I mail it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Certainly. Let me see it, Bobby. <span class="dr">(Takes -it, and reads.)</span> It’s for Eloise. A valentine, probably. -Mail it by all means, dear.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Bobby</span> runs out. <span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> tidies up the room a bit, -and then also passes out.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span></p> - -<h3>ACT II</h3> - -<p class="scene">SCENE.—<i>Same room as before. Evening of same day.</i></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Mrs. Winston</span> is seated, with sewing. <span class="ch">Bobby</span> runs -in.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> What do you think I got in the mail to-day, -Bobby?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> The paper, probably.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Yes, but something more.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> A letter.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Something better and more precious still.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> What was it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> A valentine—such a pretty one! Why, I -haven’t had a valentine for years!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Did you like it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> I certainly did, very much. If I only knew -who sent it, I should—kiss him, I think.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> You mightn’t want to.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> I’m sure I should want to, for, you see, I -knew the writing on the outside.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> You did?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Yes indeed. Thank you so much, dear. -It was very nice to receive a valentine once more.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Don’t ladies get valentines?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Not usually after they are my age, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> But Miss Colwell does, and I heard you say -once that you had the same birthday.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> So we have, dear, but what makes you think -she gets valentines?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I know she does. Uncle Bertram sent her -one this morning, and he said it was the fortieth.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Uncle Bertram? Did he tell you that, -Bobby?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> N-no, not exactly; but he said it, Mamma. -He did, really.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> To whom, then, if not to you? How did -you come to hear it?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> He said it to himself, when he was directing -it this morning.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Did he know you were there?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> N-no. I wasn’t there, exactly.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Then where were you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I was—in there. <span class="dr">(Points.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Bobby! You weren’t listening?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Well, I couldn’t help hearing, could I?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Here comes Louise. Don’t mention what -you have told me, Bobby. Not to any one. Remember.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby</span> <span class="dr">(as <span class="ch">Louise</span> enters)</span>. Yes’m, I won’t. Hi, -Louie! How many valentines did you get?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Eight. Want to see ’em?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Sure I do. Come on over and show ’em to -Mamma.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Louise</span> passes to side of her mother’s chair; <span class="ch">Bobby</span> -stands at other side, and they look at the valentines.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise</span> <span class="dr">(showing them)</span>. Bert sent this one, and -Uncle Bertram sent this one, and Grandpa sent this one, -and Harold sent this one, and Leon sent this one, and Edwin -sent this one, and Reginald sent this one.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(She says this slowly, showing them, and <span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> and -<span class="ch">Bobby</span> make comments on how pretty they are, etc.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Gee! That’s a beaut of Reginald’s. Bet -you’re glad you sent him one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> No, I’m not. He bought one for every girl -in our class—every single girl! He likes to show off how -much pocket money he has.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> It’s a very pretty valentine, Louise.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise</span> <span class="dr">(showing last one)</span>. I like this better. Freddie -made it all himself, and it’s the only one he sent.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> ’Tis pretty, but it isn’t nearly so swell as -Reggie’s. Besides, I thought Freddie wasn’t going to -send any.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> He said he wasn’t going to buy any, and he -didn’t.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Gee! And you sent him——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I didn’t either, Bobby Winston. I got those -envelopes mixed, and sent him the nice one.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> And you sent the other to Reg? Kinder -tough, when he’d treated the whole grade to valentines.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> I hope my little daughter didn’t send a comic -valentine to any one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I did, Mamma, but I shan’t again. I should -have been so ashamed if Freddie had got it, when he -made me such a pretty one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> But how about Reginald?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Oh, Reggie didn’t care a bit. He never got -a comic one before, and he thought it was funny. He -never guessed one of us girls sent it, and you see, it was -a miser, and Reggie isn’t a bit, you know, so it didn’t -touch him at all, but——</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>Enter <span class="ch">Evelyn</span> and <span class="ch">Helen</span>, evidently rather “huffy.”</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Well, you got some, didn’t you, kiddo?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I should say she did! Eight of ’em! How -many’d you get, Helen?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Oh, five or six. What a foolish day it is! -Worse than April first!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I think it’s lovely. Don’t you, Evvie?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn</span> <span class="dr">(shortly)</span>. No.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Looks as if you two had a grouch. What’s -up?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Nothing.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen</span> <span class="dr">(scornfully)</span>. Nothing!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Oh, dry up, do! Let your face rest a while.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Evelyn! What sort of talk is that?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Well, I’m sick of her nagging! And everything’s -gone wrong to-day.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> I don’t see as anything went wrong with you.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> I suppose you wouldn’t call it so, but why -any one should want that simp of a Pet hanging round -her, I don’t know.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Then why did you have him?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> How could I help it? He doesn’t know -enough to see when he’s turned down. I did everything -but slap his pretty face for him, but nothing would penetrate -that rhinoceros hide of self-esteem. Bah! He -makes me sick!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> You looked like it. I saw how earnestly you -were talking to him.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> I certainly was.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Gee! Evvie’s stole Helen’s beau, and Helen’s -mad!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> No such thing.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> That will do, Bobby. I have never seen any -signs of Evelyn’s fancying Philip. He isn’t her style.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> No, he isn’t. I detest sissy boys, and always -did. Helen can have him and welcome.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Then why did you send him a valentine? No -wonder you wouldn’t show me the address!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> It wasn’t to him.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen</span> <span class="dr">(hotly)</span>. You’re——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> <span class="dr">(interrupting sharply)</span>. Helen! I hope -neither of my girls is going to forget that she is a lady.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Well, she did send him one.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> I did not!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> I heard him thank you for it in two lines of -poetry.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> And if you’d played eavesdropper a little -longer, you’d have heard me absolutely deny it. I told -him I only sent one, and that not to him, and advised him -to talk to the one to whom he sent the volume of poetry -and the white roses.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> And he said you were the prettiest. I hate -you both, so there!</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Throws herself into a chair, and begins to cry.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Truly, Helen——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Don’t talk to me. I saw the address on the -envelope, and so did Freda and Myrtle, and we all recognized -your writing. No other girl in school makes a P -like yours.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> It was a very good imitation, I’ll admit. -The work, no doubt, of some one who thought it a very -good joke to play on me. Just wait till I see Mr. Jack -Hamilton, that’s all. It was a neat little stroke of business -to be out of town to-day. I could shake him with -a will.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> But why should a valentine make such a -disturbance? It’s just boy and girl fun at your age.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Helen don’t think so. She’s awful spoony on -Mr. Philip Etheridge Tuttle.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> That will do, Bobby. Don’t be vulgar.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Well, he always walks to the corner with her, -and to-night he didn’t. He came with Evvie.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Came after her, you mean, trotting behind -like a little poodle-dog whose missis goes too fast for him, -and she and Helen have been fighting ever since.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Well, she knew he liked me, and she’s always -pretended not to like him, and he’s always thought she -was pretty, and so, when she sent him the valentine——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> When she sent him nothing! If he tags me -to-morrow I’ll tie a blue ribbon on his neck, and hitch it -to a little chain, and lead him round like a nice little toy -dog. You see if I don’t!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Just to show every girl in the school that -you’ve captured him! Well, I’ll see that they know how -you did it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> I’m about tired of being told I—twist the -truth.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> I’d say it stronger, if Mother’d let me. You -may think it, instead. I saw you address that envelope -this morning, and you refused to let me see the name—you -know you did!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Well, so did you. What was the matter -with the one you sent him, I wonder?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> I wish I’d never sent it. All I’ve got from -him to-day at school is a nod and a stare. He’s mad -about something, and you’re to blame.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> How about the roses and the book?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Well—he sent them before he got Evvie’s -valentine.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> I never sent him any!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> That will do, girls, both of you. Helen, if -things have gone to this point I am glad I have found it -out in time. I knew he was a rather sentimental boy, but -I thought him harmless as an associate, and he was poor -Fanny’s boy, so I have encouraged his coming here—having -no mother. But this——</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Oh, Helen isn’t quite as foolish as she seems, -Mamma. She’s just jealous because he thinks me pretty. -As if I cared what he thought!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen</span> <span class="dr">(sneeringly)</span>. Yes, as if you did!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Here’s Bert coming. If you don’t want to -hear of this foolish quarrel for the next six weeks, you’d -better stop it. Bobby and Louise, not a word about it. -Remember now.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>Enter <span class="ch">Bert</span>.</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Good-evening, every one. What’s the matter, -Helen? <span class="dr">(Throws himself into seat.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Nothing. What’s the matter with you? -You look glum as an oyster.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Didn’t things go well at the office to-day, -Bert?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Oh, yes, about the same as usual.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise</span> <span class="dr">(going up to him, and smoothing his hair)</span>. -Was somebody mean to you, Bertie?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(taking her on his knee)</span>. Just a bit, maybe, -little sister. See here! <span class="dr">(He takes a dime from his -pocket.)</span> If I gave you this what would you do with it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I’d buy a little dolly at the ten-cent store.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> A dolly! Gee whiz! I’ll bet you’ve got -twenty now.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> But we girls, seven of us, are going to have -a sewing society, and we’re going to buy some little dolls, -and make a whole outfit for them, and——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Pretty outfit it’ll be, I guess. You can’t sew.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I can, too, a little, and besides, Eloise is going -to show us how.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Oh, it’s her get up, is it? Then Bert’ll give -you the ten-cent piece, sure.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Bert</span> does so, and she hugs and kisses him.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> You’re just the dearest big brother! But -what makes you look so sober? Does your head ache?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> A little, I guess. Perhaps, if you smooth it, it -will make it better. <span class="dr">(She proceeds to do so.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Got any more of those little shiny fellers that -you want to give away, Bert?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(teasingly)</span>. Why, let me see—— Why, -what’s come over Uncle Bertram? Never heard him -come in like a college boy before. <span class="dr">(Enter <span class="ch">Uncle Bertram</span>. -He goes straight to <span class="ch">Bert</span>, and shakes his hand -heartily.)</span> Glad to see you, Uncle, truly; but why pick -me out for this particular grip?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Because you’ve done me the greatest possible -favor. I shall owe my happiness the rest of my life -to you, Bert.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> To me? Say, Uncle, is it a joke, or have you -gone nutty, or what? I haven’t seen you since morning.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> No, I know it, but you’ve done a great -thing for me, just the same. I’m—I’m going to be married.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">All</span> <span class="dr">(together)</span>. Why, Bertram! Oh, Uncle Bertram! -Who to? Why, Uncle!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Glad to hear it, I’m sure, but I don’t see what -I had to do with it. I didn’t propose to the lady for you, -I’m sure.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> That’s just what you did, boy, though you -didn’t know it. And she wore the white rose, all right.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Oh, she did? Well, I don’t know how you -came to know of it, but if Eloise wants to marry a man -twice her age because he has a little money, she’s welcome, -for all me. I—I congratulate you, Uncle Bertram.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Good grit, boy, though it isn’t true, one -bit of it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> What isn’t? Aren’t you going to be married?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> I certainly am, and so is Eloise, I fancy; -but not together. I’m to marry Miss Ellen Colwell, my -boy.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Ellen? After all these years?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Not Eloise? But the rose?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> And how did Bert propose for you, when he -didn’t know anything about it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Do keep still, everybody, and let Uncle Bertram -tell it. It sounds awfully mixed up to me.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Yes, explain, do, Uncle. You’ve got me guessing -for fair.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Well, you see, to really explain, I’d have -to go back twenty years.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Oh, do, Uncle. It sounds so romantic.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Romantic! Idiotic! That’s what it was! -Well, you see, when I was a youngster only three years -old, Dr. Colwell came to town to practice, and bought the -home where Miss Ellen lives now. We lived on the same -street then, and Mother took me with her when she went -to call, and I fell in love with her on the spot.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> With your mother, or the doctor?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> With the doctor’s baby, little Ellen. She -was a bit of a thing, with a white dress and a blue sash, -and blue shoes, and she had big blue eyes that just -matched, and little soft, yellow curls, and she called me -“Boy.” It was the first word she had ever tried to say, -her mother told me.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Miss Ellen’s hair is brown.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> So it is, Louie, but it used to be yellow. -Well, from that day on we were playmates, and I sent -her a valentine that year. In fact, I have every year. I -sent my fortieth this morning.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> But I don’t see——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Hold on, Namesake. Wait a bit, and you -will. Twenty years ago I sent one in which, in the best -verses I knew how to make, I asked her a question—<em>the</em> -question; and I asked her, if the answer was yes, to wear -a white rose in her hair, and to sit in the bay window as I -went home that night.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Why——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Yes, I know, my boy. We’re much alike, -and history repeats itself. If it hadn’t—well, to go on, -she didn’t do it, although I had had some white roses -delivered there that afternoon. It seems now that she -didn’t get the valentine at all. It went astray somehow. -She thought I had forgotten, and didn’t care, and I -thought the answer was “no,” and it made a difference -in our friendship. Though we have been friends, the -old intimacy was gone—and—well, we’ve lost twenty -years.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Oh, brother!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> We’re going to make them up, Eva, don’t -you forget it. Well, to-day I sent my fortieth valentine, -and the same thing happened. It went astray. At least<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span> -she hasn’t got it yet. <span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Bobby</span> gives a start, and claps his -hand to his pocket, but no one seems to notice. <span class="ch">Uncle -B.</span> goes on.)</span> She did get one, though, in rhyme, which, -strange to say, asked her the selfsame thing. Don’t blush, -my boy! And as she always gets a box of white roses on -this particular day, when I came home to-night there she -sat, in the bay window, with a white rose in her hair! I -couldn’t believe my eyes, but I went in, and it’s all right. -We’re to be married in six weeks, and I’ve you to thank, -my boy, and when you and Eloise are married, you’ll get -a check for one thousand dollars for a wedding present.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> But I don’t see how she came to get my letter, -and I should have thought she would have known it -wasn’t hers.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Why, you called her Ellie—my old pet -name for her, as well as yours for Eloise, it seems, and -you signed it Bert, which every one always called me till -I had a namesake nephew.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> But I directed mine all right, and—no, I didn’t -mail it, I do believe. I went off in a rush with Frank, -and left it on the desk.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> And Bobby found it there, and I told him to -mail it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> And did you mail it, Bobby?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Why——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> He didn’t! He forgot it. I saw him start -just now, and clap his hand to his pocket. I bet it’s there -now.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> No, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Can’t be, because Ellen got it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(rising, and grasping <span class="ch">Bobby</span>, who is trying to -sneak away)</span>. Come here, my beloved little brother. -Let’s see what you have in your pocket.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(He seats himself, <span class="ch">Bobby</span> between his knees, and proceeds -to go through his pockets, in spite of his endeavors -to get away.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> You let me go.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Directly, my dear brother, directly. Ah, here<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span> -we are! <span class="dr">(He takes letter from <span class="ch">Bobby’s</span> pocket.)</span> That’s -my letter, sure. Now, young man, why didn’t you mail -it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I meant to, truly. But I forgot.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Let Uncle Bertram open it, Bert. I’ll bet a -box of candy <em>his</em> valentine is inside. There have been -queer doings with valentines to-day, and I believe Bobby’s -at the bottom of the whole thing. Hold him tight while -I investigate, or rather while we all do. Open that, -Uncle Bert.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(passing it)</span>. Yes, do, Uncle Bert. My letter -isn’t inside, that’s sure, since Miss Ellen got it. No, no, -Sir Robert, stay right here. Your elder brother is very -fond of your company just now.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Let go! You’re twisting my arm!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> I won’t hurt as long as you don’t try to get -away, but here you’ve got to stay just now. How about -it, Uncle?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> <span class="dr">(who has opened letter and looked inside)</span>. -It’s mine, all right, boy. <span class="dr">(To <span class="ch">Bobby</span>.)</span> Now, young -man, how about it? Who changed them around, and -when?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> How should I know? I found this on the -desk and asked Mamma if I should mail it, and she said -yes, and then I forgot to, that’s all.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> But how came Uncle Bertram’s letter in this -envelope?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> How should I know? Stop that! Mamma, -he’s hurting me.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Yes? Well, I should advise him to keep on -doing so till he gets to the bottom of the mystery.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Yes, make him tell. I’ll bet he did it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Might as well own up, Bobby. You’ll have -to in the end.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> There wasn’t any letter on the desk when I -wrote mine. Oh, Bobby, did you change mine? If you -did, I’m glad, Bobby, truly I am.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I didn’t though, truly, Lou. You did it yourself. -I knew it, though, but I thought I’d keep still. I -wanted to find out if Reggie Westcott could get mad. -He’s such a girlie boy!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> Well, he didn’t. But I’m glad Freddie didn’t -get it. I’m glad they got mixed.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> So am I, girlie. ’Twas a good mix up for -me, but I’m sure other hands tampered with mine.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> And mine. Now, young man, how about it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> About what?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(taking him across knee)</span>. About this.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Gives him a spank.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Ow! You hurt.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Good. I’m going to make each one a little -harder than the last. Will you tell me how and when -you changed those letters? No answer? Very well.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Spanks again.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Mamma, make him stop.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Not until you tell the truth about it, Bobby. -A joke is a joke, but a lie is a lie, and I’m certain you do -know. Answer truly, now. Don’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(spanking again)</span>. Answer your mother, young -man.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Gee! How can I answer when you’re hurting -me?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert</span> <span class="dr">(standing him between knees again)</span>. Now I’m -not hurting you. Answer Mother.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Answer what? Oh, don’t take me that way -again. I’ll answer. Yes, Mamma, I do know. I only -did it for fun. Bert left his when he went off in a hurry, -and I was going to look at it——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> Well, that’s cool.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I just wanted to see if it was as pretty as the -one I had for Mamma, and Uncle Bert came in quick, -and I didn’t want him to catch me looking at it, so I -dodged behind the portière. And he talked out loud to -himself, and said it was the fortieth one he’d sent her, -and I just thought thirty-nine was enough to get from -one man, and I wished I could get a chance to change -’em, just for fun, so when Uncle Bert was called to the -’phone——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> So that’s when you did it! I thought I -hadn’t sealed that envelope!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> So I slipped yours out, and Bert’s in, and -sealed it, and dodged back. Then I fixed the other back -there. They weren’t valentines, though, either of ’em—just -poetry, with a fancy border, but both of ’em begun -“Dearest Ellie,” and ended “Yours forever, Bert,” so I -don’t see why one wasn’t as good as the other. Bert’s -was the best, though, really, ’cause any one could understand -it, but yours was just rhymes and long words, without -any sense that I could see.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> You little scamp! Don’t you know it’s dishonorable -to read other folks’ letters?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> They weren’t letters. They were valentines. -How was I to know that men were so silly as to write -letters that way? When I want to get married I shall -just walk up to the one I want and tell her so.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> Right you are, Bobby. If I’d done so, I’d -have been a married man all these years, instead of a -lonely old bach.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bert.</span> I believe he’s right myself. I’m off to try my -luck. If she says “No,” the whole family will know I’m -jilted, thanks to my small brother. Wish me good luck, -mother mine.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> Indeed I do, my boy. Never fear. If I -have read Eloise’s eyes aright lately, we’ll congratulate -you in the morning.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Bert</span> goes out, all the rest calling “Good luck” after -him.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn</span> <span class="dr">(cornering <span class="ch">Bobby</span>)</span>. And now we’ll probe a -little deeper. If you don’t answer <em>my</em> questions, I shall -tickle you without mercy. You were behind there when -Helen and I came in?</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Bobby</span> hesitates. <span class="ch">Evelyn</span> tickles him.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Stop, Evvie, do stop. Yes, I was there.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> And you changed them when Katy fell, and -we ran to the kitchen?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> Yes. I knew how you hated Pet, and I -thought it would be funny to make you send him a valentine. -So, of course, I had to send Helen’s to Jack.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Of all the mean kids!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> You see, Helen, I wasn’t as mean or as silly -as you thought, or as Phil thought, either. You may explain -to him if you choose.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Helen.</span> Well, I shan’t. Any one as fickle as that -isn’t worth it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> I’m glad you see it, little daughter. I really -think that, as so much good has resulted from Bobby’s -playing Cupid, we will have to forgive him this time, but -he must never do so again.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> I won’t, Mamma, truly I won’t.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> I don’t suppose you ought to be paid for a -naughty trick, but that pony you’ve wanted so long is -yours, my boy, next Saturday.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Mrs. W.</span> No, not for a month, Bertram. Bobby must -be taught a lesson.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bobby.</span> All right, Mamma. I deserve it. But thank -you, Uncle Bert. You’re a brick!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> And now, little girlie, what do you want? -A pony, too, or a big dolly?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> I want to be the little flower girl.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Uncle B.</span> So you shall, bless your heart! And -Helen and Evelyn shall be bridesmaids.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Louise.</span> And maybe Eloise’ll let me be hers. I’ll be -two flower girls.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Evelyn.</span> Two weddings! And one twenty years delayed! -Well, I guess there’s something doing in this -family, and all because of Bobby and the changed valentines!</p> - -<p class="ct">CURTAIN</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span></p> - -<p id="A_Romance_of_St_Valentines" class="center larger">A Romance of St. Valentine’s Day</p> - -<p class="center">In Three Acts</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span></p> - -<h2>A Romance of St. Valentine’s Day</h2> - -<h3>CHARACTERS</h3> - -<div class="container"> - -<ul class="characters"> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Pauline</span>, <i>a schoolgirl</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Polly</span>, <i>her great-aunt</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Mr. Amos Hill</span>, <i>her aunt’s former lover</i>.</li> -</ul> - -</div> - -<h3>ACT I</h3> - -<p class="scene">SCENE.—<i>A plain, old-fashioned room. The essential -piece of furniture is an old-fashioned sewing table, -what is known as a Martha Washington table, and is -quite generally imitated to-day. They were small and -square, with leaves that turned down, and two drawers.</i></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Great-Aunt Polly</span> is seated by the table, looking at -a collection of valentines, post-cards, etc., such as the -young girl of to-day receives. <span class="ch">Pauline</span> is seated a -little way from her.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Very pretty, Pauline, I’m sure, and a great -many of them for one little schoolgirl. I don’t really like -the post-cards, though, dearie. It doesn’t seem just right -to send a valentine unenclosed.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Oh, it’s quite the thing, now, Aunt Polly. -Everybody does it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> It’s a style I do not care for, my dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> But it saves money.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> The difference between one cent and two is -not very wide, is it?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> No, but when one wants to send a lot it -means a good deal, unless you are flush—and I never am.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Send a lot? What do you mean, my dear?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Why, every fellow wants to send one to -every pretty girl he knows, of course.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> A Christmas card, perhaps, but a valentine! -That should be for one only, my dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> How odd! Why, I sent twenty-five, myself, -to the nice boys I knew.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Twenty-five! Oh, my dear! You didn’t!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Sure I did! Why not? Is that the way -they sent them in your day, Auntie? Seems to me they -were rather narrow.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> No, indeed, my dear, but a valentine meant -something then. A young man sent but one, and that -went to the lady of his choice. The girls did not send -any. We would have thought it immodest. But girls -do many things to-day that would not have been tolerated -in my day. A girl, then, was supposed to be a lady.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Instead of a madcap tomboy? Well, I -plead guilty, and throw myself on the mercy of the court. -I just love to be a tomboy, and I’m going to be one a long -time yet. No “one valentine” sentiment for me, or one -boy, either, for years to come.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Well, perhaps you are right, yet many of -my girlhood friends married at sixteen, and nearly all of -them were married by the time they were twenty, that -is, of course, those who married at all.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> And why didn’t you, Auntie dear? Didn’t -you ever like any one well enough?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Yes, dearie, I did. I don’t suppose any -woman lives to be thirty without liking some one well -enough to marry him, if circumstances came about right. -But there! They don’t always do it. Would you like -to see my old valentines, Pauline?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Oh, I would, so much, Auntie dear!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> <span class="dr">(opening top drawer of stand)</span>. Well, -dearie, here they are. No post-cards among them. -Most of them came from the same one, as you see. -This is the last one he ever sent me.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline</span> <span class="dr">(opening it.)</span> Did he die, Auntie?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> No, he didn’t die, dear. He’s alive still. -He got angry at me, that’s all. Talk of girls getting in a -huff over nothing! Boys aren’t far behind, let me tell -you.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> And did he marry?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> No, he is single still.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Then he cared, you see. How romantic! -Why didn’t you try to make up with him?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> It isn’t the lady’s place, my dear, to run -after a man.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Well, I like that! Well, if ever I’m fond -of a man, I’ll run after him and hold him, if necessary, -till I know what he was mad at. Or did you know, -Auntie? And was it something that couldn’t be made up?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, I suppose I did know, dearie—but it -seemed such a slight thing to anger him. My cousin -came that Valentine’s Day. We had been brought up -almost like brother and sister before I came to this town. -It was fine sleighing, and he took me over to Wrentham -for the night. His mother was there, just for the day -and night, and the young girl whom he was to marry. -When I came home, next day, I asked my mother for my -mail. She replied that there wasn’t any. “But there -must have been a valentine,” I said. “Amos always -sends me one.” “I know,” she answered, “but this year -he didn’t. He called, though, last evening, and seemed -much put out that you were not here. He went off as -stiff as a poker.” Of course, I thought he must be angry -because I went sleighing with Timothy, though I thought -it a bit far-fetched, as we were only old friends, and so -were Timothy and myself. “But,” I thought, “I’ll explain -when he gets over his huff, and it will be all right.”</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> And didn’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> No, dear, I hadn’t the opportunity. Next -day his mother came over to tell us that he had gone -away. She seemed to think I was to blame, somehow, -and she never was nice to me again, and it was more -than a year before Amos came back, and then he was -just coldly polite when we met. That was the end of my -little romance, dear, for though there were others who -found me fair, somehow I couldn’t seem to care for any<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span> -of them. You see, dearie, Amos had won my love, -though he didn’t know it, and so—— <span class="dr">(Pauses.)</span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> And he has it yet! Oh, Auntie, how -romantic! And does he live in town still?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Yes, but I meet him seldom, and we merely -say a “How-de-do” in passing. Excuse me, dearie. I -think I will go up-stairs a few minutes, while you look at -my old keepsakes. I cannot imagine how I came to let -you wheedle this old story from me. Please do not refer -to it again.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> No indeed, Auntie. Thank you for telling -me. <span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> passes out, and <span class="ch">Pauline</span> proceeds to -investigate drawer, soliloquizing as she does so.)</span> Such -quaint little valentines! I like them, though! And -nearly all in the same handwriting—that of the faithless -Amos, evidently. Yes, this one is signed A. H. A. H. -A is Amos, of course. A. H. Could it be Mr. Hill, I -wonder? “A. Hill,” he has it on his sign. He’s old, or -rather old—sixty, I shouldn’t wonder, and he’s a -bachelor. I’ll bet he’s the one! Mean old thing, to -bring tears to the eyes of my little great-auntie after all -these years! <span class="dr">(Puts valentines hack in drawer, and shuts -it rather vigorously, letting one drop, unnoticed, to the -floor.)</span> Men and boys are queer creatures, anyhow. -I’m glad I’m a girl! And I’m glad I live now, instead -of forty years ago. Why, I got more valentines, I do believe, -to-day, than Aunt Polly has in all her life. Why, -I dropped one! <span class="dr">(Picks it up.)</span> Amos was a little fellow -when he sent this, I guess. <span class="dr">(Opens it.)</span> No, this is -from the Timothy who seems to have been the villain in -the little pastoral comedy. What a cute little verse!</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Reads.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="verse">“Dear Polly, though you’re far away,</div> -<div class="verse">Think of me on Valentine’s Day.</div> -<div class="verse">I wish I could see you, so sweet and prim.</div> -<div class="verse">That’s all. Good-bye, from Cousin Tim.”</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="dr">(Tries to open drawer.)</span> Why, what makes this drawer -stick so? <span class="dr">(Pulls till drawer opens with a jerk.)</span> Why,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span> -of all things! How came that box in there? It wasn’t -there a minute ago! It looks like a little drawer. I do -believe it’s a secret drawer, that has somehow fallen -down! And here—why, I do believe here’s another -valentine from Amos that was never opened. It is sealed -and addressed, but I don’t believe she ever got it. And -that, I’ll bet, made the trouble! I wonder—yes, I will, -I’ll mail it and see what comes of it. I’ll call Auntie, first, -and show her the drawer. No, on second thoughts, I -won’t hurry about that. Here’s to mail Amos’ last valentine, -and then I’ll run down to the office later, when the -afternoon mail comes in, and get it. Wouldn’t it be -romantic if things came out story-book style, and I was -the Cupid who had a finger in the pie? <span class="dr">(Goes out.)</span></p> - -<p class="ct">CURTAIN</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span></p> - -<h3>ACT II</h3> - -<p class="scene">SCENE.—<i>Office of <span class="ch">Mr. Amos Hill</span>.</i></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Amos</span> seated in office chair, tipped back, soliloquizing.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Valentine’s Day once more! Strange I can’t -get it out of my head! Just forty years since Polly jilted -me! Why, I wonder? I never did understand. I was -so sure that she cared for me—but there! Womankind -is fickle. She never married, though, nor I either, big -fool that I was! I couldn’t seem to help comparing every -girl I met with her, and they suffered by comparison, and -so here I am, a bachelor of sixty, wanting nothing but the -one thing I never shall have—a wife and home of my -own. <span class="dr">(Puts a card photograph, such as were taken forty -years ago, back into desk.)</span> There, little Polly, go back -to your resting-place, while I go back to work and try to -forget you. <span class="dr">(Does not close drawer, but looks up as -knock is heard.)</span> Eh? What? Come in, whoever you -are. <span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Pauline</span> enters.)</span> Polly! <span class="dr">(Gazes in surprise at -her.)</span> Who in the world are you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Oh, I’m Polly, just as you said, though -most folks call me Pauline.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> But who are you? I thought——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> You thought I was Aunt Polly? Do I -look like her?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Is Miss Polly Dennison your aunt?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> My great-aunt.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Then you’re Angie Dennison’s girl?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Yes, I’m Pauline Waldron, and I’m visiting -at Aunt Polly’s.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> But what brings you here?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I’m playing Cupid. <span class="dr">(Catches sight of picture.)</span><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span> -Oh, is that Aunt Polly? What a dear, old-fashioned -little girl! May I see it closer?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos</span> <span class="dr">(passing it rather reluctantly)</span>. Won’t you sit -down?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline</span> <span class="dr">(seating herself)</span>. What a sweet little face! -How old was she?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Eight, I believe!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> What beautiful wavy hair! And so long! -But what a narrow ribbon she had on top!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Yes, little girls didn’t have more ribbon than -hair in those days. She had fine eyes, too.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Yes, and has yet. But what a queer little -dress, with its plaited trimmings, and a lace bib! And -the sash is wide enough to make up for the hair ribbon, -I’m sure. Oh, do give it to me!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos</span> <span class="dr">(taking it hastily)</span>. Certainly not. It’s a keep-sake. -And now, my young lady, you will oblige me by -forgetting that you have seen it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Oh, I couldn’t forget it, it’s so quaint and -dear!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I don’t see as it is so quaint. A dainty little -girl, in a very pretty frock, I think. Much prettier than -little girls wear nowadays. Please forget it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> You shouldn’t use slang, Mr. Hill.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I didn’t, I assure you. I only implore that -you will not mention having seen what was never intended -for your eyes.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I won’t, indeed. You liked Aunt Polly, -then?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Certainly. We were playmates and schoolmates -from that time on. That was taken just after she -came to this town. You look very like her at your age, -my dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> So much so that you called me Polly.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Did I? Excuse me. And now, my dear little -girl—I mean young lady, what can I do for you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Just answer a few questions. This is Valentine’s -Day; you know, and I’ve been playing Cupid.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Indeed? And what did you wish to ask me? -If it was ever legal to play Cupid, I think it is on Valentine’s -Day.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> If—if any one finds a letter that was evidently -intended to be mailed, and it hasn’t been, is it right -for that person to mail it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Why, certainly. It’s the proper thing to do, -my dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Even if it has been lost a long time?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I should think so. You see, you have no right -to open it, so you would not know the writer, and thus -could not return it to him, so the only thing to do is to -mail it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> So I thought. But you see, this one has -been lost for forty years.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Forty years? Are you sure? Perhaps the -one to whom it was addressed has moved, or is dead. It -is a long time, my dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> No, he hasn’t, and she isn’t, so I mailed it. -But I think I know the writer. Ought I to tell him about -it, too?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Why, it might be well to do so. It is an unusual -occurrence, to get a letter that was written to one -forty years ago. I think you had better tell me the whole -story.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I believe I will. I was showing my valentines -to Auntie to-day. Oh, do you know, I believe that -letter was a valentine. Did you ever lose one?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Never. A valentine forty years old will be -rather stale, I fear. Perhaps the lady—I believe you said -it was a lady—may have been married for years to some -other man. She may be a grandmother now, and may -laugh at the effusion of the callow youth of the olden -time.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> She won’t, I’m sure. And she isn’t a -grandmother, for she never married. She has been faithful -to a faithless lover all these years, and I believe that -lost valentine is at the bottom of the whole trouble.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Indeed, just how, may I ask?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Why, he had always sent her one, every -year, since they were children, but that year he was mad -about something, and he didn’t send her any. That is, -she has always thought he didn’t, but I believe he did, and -that that’s the letter I found to-day.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And where did you find a letter forty years -old, that had never been mailed? It may cause strange -misunderstandings now, child. Perhaps it would have -been better to have asked my advice before you mailed it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I’m asking it now. Mr. Hill, did you send -Aunt Polly a valentine forty years ago? Think back -carefully, and see if you can remember.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I can remember quite distinctly, my dear. I -did send your aunt one that day—the last one I ever sent -her. I have reason to remember it quite plainly, my dear, -on account of the answer I received.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> The answer? But you couldn’t have got -any answer, for she thinks the last one you sent her was -forty-one years ago. She never got that other one, so -how could she answer it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I certainly thought she did, and negatively, at -that. But—my dear, do you mean that you think you -have found that letter—that valentine, which I never -knew had been lost? Where, and how?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Why, Auntie let me see her old valentines, -and when I’d put them away, I found I had dropped one. -And the drawer stuck when I tried to open it, and I -jerked it, and somehow knocked down a little drawer -that must have been above it, and in it lay the letter I -told you of. It was addressed to Aunt Polly, and sealed, -and had a three-cent stamp on it, but it had never been -opened.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Because she didn’t care to open it, my dear. -I happen to know that she got it, for her grandmother -took it from my hand that morning, and said she would -give it into her own hand. And you see, she must have -had it, for it was in her own secret drawer.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I don’t think she knew about the drawer. -And I know she didn’t get it, for she told me so to-day, -and her eyes were full of tears.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Polly cried?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Yes. She loved you, I’m sure, and thought -you were angry with her because she went over to Wrentham -with her cousin.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> With Tim! Good land, child, I shouldn’t have -been jealous of Tim! But why didn’t she explain?<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span> -Good gracious! If she didn’t get it, there was nothing -to explain!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> And you went away next day, and she -didn’t see you for a year.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Yes, but—oh, what a hopeless, foolish tangle! -And you mailed that letter, child? Has she got it yet?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> No, I shall go to the office before I go -back. Oh, I believe she was going to the milliner’s this -afternoon, so probably she’ll get it herself.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And she’ll read it—for the first time—after -forty years! See here, little girl, I’ll be over to-night -for the answer, but don’t you tell her I’m coming.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> But you never go there.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I did once, and I’m coming again. To-night, -you understand, and I want you to give me a clear coast -for half an hour or so, will you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Of course.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Maybe I’m an old fool for my pains, but that -letter asked her a question—<em>the</em> question, and told her I -would come that evening for my answer, and I’m coming. -If she gets it to-day, to-night is the night to call, and I’m -coming, if I get turned down for my pains. I thought -she went away to get out of having to say no. And to -think I wasted forty years! Well, there’s no fool like an -old fool, and Polly’s got to answer that question. Wish -me luck, little girl.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Indeed I do! And Aunt Polly does care, -I know. I’m glad I meddled.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> So am I. Though I can’t understand about -that letter. Going? Well, you look in the office this -evening, and you’ll find the finest valentine this town -affords, addressed to Cupid. Good-afternoon.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Good-afternoon.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Goes out. He takes out the little picture again, and -gazes at it.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Love is eternal. Love is always young. -Maybe I’ll end my days in a home of my own, after all! -Dear little Polly!</p> - -<p class="ct">CURTAIN</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span></p> - -<h3>ACT III</h3> - -<p class="scene">SCENE.—<i>Same as first scene. Evening.</i></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Pauline</span> seated, with some bit of embroidery, or other -fancy work. <span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> is seated, also, as curtain -rises, but during the conversation moves about a -good deal, rather nervously.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> What’s the matter, Aunt Polly? What -makes you so restless? Don’t you feel well?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Yes, I think so. I—I’m nervous, I think.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I didn’t know you were ever nervous, -Auntie.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, I’m not, as a rule, Pauline. I don’t -know what is the matter, I’m sure.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Hadn’t you better go to bed, Auntie, and -sleep it off?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> No, I couldn’t sleep, I’m sure.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> You haven’t had bad news, have you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, no, dear, not exactly.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Not exactly? You’ve had some news then -that disturbs you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Yes, my dear, it is disturbing news, really. -It’s almost as if some one had risen from the dead; and -I don’t understand it, and I don’t know what to do or -say.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Could I help you any, Auntie dear?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> No, I think not, dearie. I must think it out -alone.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Do you mind if I run over to Grace’s a few -minutes?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Oh, don’t, dear, don’t. Stay with me. -Some one might come in.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Are you expecting any one?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> N-no, not exactly. That is—no, of course -not.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Why, Auntie dear, if you were a young -girl, I should say you were expecting a visit from your -young man.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But as I’m not, but an old woman of fifty-eight, -you know it can’t be any nonsense of that sort. -Remember, my dear Pauline, I am your great-aunt.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Not so very great, either; just the dearest -little auntie in the world. And you don’t seem a bit old. -Why, your hair isn’t hardly a bit gray. Besides, there -was Mrs. Atherton, in our home town, was married just -before I came here, and she was sixty-three.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> She was a widow, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> What difference did that make? They -said that Mr. Buffinton was her first lover, but that her -father had separated them, and every one was glad to -see her married.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Very nice and romantic, dear, but, as I said -before, she was a widow, and that makes a great deal of -difference. If she had been a maiden lady, every one -would have called her silly, and laughed at her.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I don’t see why.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Nor I, dear, truly, but the fact remains that -they do. It would take quite a strong-minded woman to -face it. I couldn’t, I’m sure.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> But, Auntie——</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Stops abruptly, as bell rings.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Some one is coming! I——</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Rises, but sits down hastily, as she hears steps.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos</span> <span class="dr">(entering)</span>. Well, Polly, I’ve come for the answer -to that letter.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Pauline</span> slips out.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, Amos, aren’t you a stranger? How -do you do?</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I’ll tell you how I’m going to do. I’m going -to have an answer to that letter.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> What letter? Do sit down, Amos! You -make me nervous.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos</span> <span class="dr">(seating himself)</span>. Well, I’ve sat down. Now -how about the answer to that letter?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> That letter?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Yes, that letter. It’s no use to fence for time, -Polly. I’m going to have an answer. Didn’t you get a -valentine letter from me to-day?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Amos, you never sent that letter to-day. -It was old. It looked old, and it had a three-cent stamp. -Three-cent stamps have been out of use thirty years and -more.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Then you did get it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Yes, but I don’t understand it, and I’m all -upset about it. It was like a voice from the dead.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> It was, Polly, a voice from the dead past. -That letter should have reached you forty years ago.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Did you write that forty years ago, Amos? -And why didn’t you send it? Why send it now, after all -these years?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I did send it, dear heart. There’s a mystery -about that letter that we will talk about later. Just now -I want my answer.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Your answer, now?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Yes, now. Polly, dear, I’ve waited forty years -for my answer. Isn’t that long enough to keep a man -waiting?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But, Amos, forty years changes things.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> It hasn’t changed my love for you any. I’ve -tried to down it for forty years because I thought I’d got -my answer. But have that answer I must and will.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But, Amos——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Let’s go back a bit, Polly. You used to like -me when we were little playmates, now didn’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Yes, of course. You were the nicest boy -I knew.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And when we went to the old Academy together. -You liked me then?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, yes, of course, Amos.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And if you’d got that letter when you were -meant to get it, you’d have said yes; now, wouldn’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> You would, Polly, now wouldn’t you? Come, -own up; it’s forty years past.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, yes.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Then you’ll say it now. You’ve just got it, -and I’ve come for my answer, as I said I should. Isn’t -it yes, Polly dearest?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But, Amos, I’m an old woman now.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And I’m an old man. I’m sixty.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> I’m sure that isn’t old! For a man, I mean.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Then fifty-eight isn’t old—for a woman. -Polly, I’ve everything but the thing I want most. I’ve -no real home. I’m lonesome, dear. I’ve been lonesome -for forty years—forty years that the locusts have eaten. -Must I always be lonely, Polly?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But think what people would say, Amos.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I don’t care what people say, Polly. I only -care for you, and to know that you care. And you do -care, Polly, I know. Else why have you kept single all -these years? Besides, if you didn’t care, you’d have said -no and you haven’t said it. You’ve fenced. Polly, you -did care. Don’t you care any longer? Tell me!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Y-yes, Amos, I did care.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And you’ve got over it? You no longer care? -Ah, you can’t say no. Say yes, Polly. Forty years is a -long while to wait for an answer.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> That’s it, Amos, those forty years. It looks -so ridiculous.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Ridiculous, nothing! I’m waiting to hear that -yes, Polly. And I shan’t go home till I hear it.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Well—yes, then.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Oh, Polly, my girl, to think I didn’t hear that -forty years ago! We’ve lots of time to make up.</p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Kisses her.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Do stop, Amos; Pauline will be coming in! -What will she think?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Well, as she is chief-conspirator, she won’t be -surprised, so cheer up, my dear. Pauline ran out to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span> -post-office. I hear her coming now. <span class="dr">(Calls.)</span> Come -here, you little niece of mine, and congratulate me.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline</span> <span class="dr">(coming in)</span>. Is it true, really? Oh, Auntie -dear, I am so glad! <span class="dr">(Kisses her, then goes to <span class="ch">Amos</span> and -kisses him.)</span> Thank you, Uncle Amos that is to be, for -my lovely valentine. And I’m glad you got the right -answer.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Pauline! Did you know?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Didn’t I tell you she was chief conspirator? -She brought it all about. You shall be bridesmaid, Polly -girl, and choose what you please for a gift.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> That will be lovely. When is it to be?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Soon.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Oh, no, not very soon.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Yes, soon, very soon. Good land, Polly, isn’t -forty years long enough?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But what had you to do with this, Pauline? -And where has that letter been all these years?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Why, you see, Auntie, when I put the old -valentines away I dropped one, and when I tried to open -the drawer it stuck. I jerked it hard, to open it, and -when it opened—— <span class="dr">(Opens drawer.)</span> Look! That’s -what I saw, and the letter was on top.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Why, how did that box come there? It -looks like a drawer.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos</span> <span class="dr">(pulling the drawer out, and looking in)</span>. It -was, Polly, a secret drawer, just above this one. Evidently -this had to be taken entirely out to reach it, but -one support has come loose, so it dropped into the other -drawer.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> <span class="dr">(taking secret drawer in her lap)</span>. I never -knew there was a secret drawer in this table. Why, -Amos! They’re Grandmother’s things! The ones we -never could find! Here’s her gold beads, and her gold -thimble, and Grandpa’s watch, and—this was Uncle -Robert’s little shoe—he died, you know, when he was a -year old—and this box is full of hair—Father’s curls, I -do believe! That’s all. No. <span class="dr">(Lifts paper in bottom of -drawer.)</span> This is her marriage certificate! We knew -there was a secret drawer in the desk, where she kept -money. She showed that to Father about a year before<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span> -she died. But this—and how did my valentine get -there? How did Grandma get it before it was mailed?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> That’s plain enough. She ran in that morning -to show Mother a new patch-work pattern. The letter -lay on the desk, and she chaffed me about it. Then she -offered to play Cupid, and put it into your own hand. -Thinking you would get it earlier that way, I consented. -So when I called that night, and you were not at home, I -thought it was a kind way of saying no, and went away -to get over it. I couldn’t, though, and came back a year -later, as you know. But why your grandmother didn’t -give it to you, I don’t see. She was always a woman to -trust.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> I understand that part of it. When she -got home I had gone with Tim, and it was that night -she had a shock, Amos. She never spoke again, and died -a week later.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> And if I hadn’t run away on the first train -the next morning I would have known it, and might have -mistrusted that you didn’t get it! Oh, the years that the -locusts have eaten! That was one of her own expressions, -you remember.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But why didn’t you bring the letter to me, -Pauline, instead of to Amos?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I didn’t give it to either, Auntie. I mailed -it. If I’d given it to you, you’d have read it, and cried -over it, and treasured it, but you’d never have let—Uncle -Amos—see it or know of it, now would you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> Not at this late day. It would have been -equivalent to a proposal from me. But I would always -have treasured the thought that he did love me, after -all. That I had not given my love unsought, something -which has shamed me to myself all these years.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> And if I had given it to you, Mr. Hill——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Uncle Amos is good enough, Polly girl.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> If I had given it to you, Uncle Amos, -would you have mailed it?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> No, I should have thought it too late.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> So you see I did the best possible thing, -and the letter reached the right one, and the result is all -I hoped for.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> But how did you know about it, Amos?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Oh, the mischievous Cupid came and told me -after she had mailed it, so——</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> So you thought I’d expect you?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> No, I didn’t. But the chance was too good to -let slide. I’d never had an answer after all, and I came -for it, as I said I would. I got it, too, just the answer I -wanted. ’Tisn’t every man who has to wait forty years -for his answer. And now, Pauline, what is the shortest -time required to rig up a wedding gown? A week?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> A week! The idea!</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> I’m talking to little Polly. Isn’t a week long -enough?</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> I think you’d better give her two.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Amos.</span> Two it is, then, and not a minute longer. -Order your rig out, little girl, the nicest and prettiest you -can find, and I’ll pay for it. You deserve it. And you’re -to be our adopted daughter, and spend every minute your -parents can spare you with us. We’ll have a motor, -childie, and anything else we want, and Polly and I will -do our best to make up the forty years we have lost.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Pauline.</span> Oh, I’m so glad I did it! I didn’t hardly -dare! It sounds like a romance.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Aunt P.</span> It is! To think of a lost valentine turning -up after forty years!</p> - -<p class="ct">CURTAIN</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span></p> - -<p id="The_Queen_of_Hearts" class="center larger">The Queen of Hearts</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span></p> - -<h2>The Queen of Hearts</h2> - -<h3>CHARACTERS</h3> - -<div class="container"> - -<ul class="characters"> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">The Queen of Hearts.</span></li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Her Maidens</span>, <i>eight girls</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">St. Valentine.</span></li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">His Attendants</span>, <i>eight boys</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">Little Sir Cupid.</span></li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">The Fairy.</span></li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">The Queen’s Pages</span>, <i>two small girls</i>.</li> -<li class="ch"><span class="ch">St. Valentine’s Pages</span>, <i>two small boys</i>.</li> -</ul> - -</div> - -<h3>COSTUMES</h3> - -<p>Dress the <span class="ch">Queen</span> in a white robe, cut like a Grecian -robe, with flowing sleeves. It has a border of golden -hearts, cut from gold paper. She has a girdle of heavy -gold cord, with a heart at each end, also a tiara of -lighter gold cord, surmounted by a heart of gold. She -carries a sceptre of gold, surmounted by a heart. Choose -a pretty girl for the part.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Her Maidens</span> are in pale blue and silver. The dresses -are made from crepe paper, with double skirts, full -waists, and large sashes. The waists have Dutch necks -and short puffed sleeves. Trim the neck, sleeves and -both skirts with silver tinsel. The stockings may be blue -or white, the slippers white or black. The hair should -be flowing, held back from the face with a band of blue, -edged with the silver, tied in a bow at the side, little silver -hearts dangling from the ends of the bow. On the -upper skirt, or tunic, is a row of silver hearts. Each<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span> -carries a scarf or ribbon about two yards long, and four -or five inches wide. These may be of some sheeny -lining material. Point the ends, and hang a silver heart -from each end, and from the centre. When the scarfs -are not in use, they are thrown over the head, and -hang down, in front, over the shoulders. They may be -blue, to match the costume, or pink, of a shade that will -harmonize with the blue.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Valentine</span> wears a long, white robe, girded with -red and decorated with red hearts. He has a long white -beard, easily removable, also a red cap or hood, to which -is sewed long white hair. He carries a large, handsome -valentine.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">His Attendants</span> wear long red robes, girded with -white. Each carries a valentine.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">His Pages</span> are two tiny boys, in white robes, with red -girdles. All these robes should be so fashioned that -they may be quickly and easily thrown off. Underneath -all are dressed in court costumes, of red and white—long -hose, puffed trunks, doublet or tunic, belted in, and -puffed sleeves.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">The Queen’s Pages</span> are tiny girls in white, fluffy -dresses. One has a big sash and hair ribbon of pink, -also stockings to match. The other has them of blue. -They have also bows at the shoulders, with short loops, -and long ends. The blue ribbon has golden hearts attached -to the ends; the pink one has silver hearts.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">The Fairy</span> is all in fluffy white. Her dress is made -of mosquito netting, very short and full, with a full -empire waist. White ribbons of varying lengths hang -from the folded girdle, also from a band which encircles -the low, round neck. To each of these ribbons is fastened -a tiny silver bell. The sleeves are merely deep ruffles, -cut in points, to each of which is sewed a bell. The slippers -have rosettes, with the bells. Around the head is a -white band, to the lower side of which the little bells are -fastened. To the centre of this, in front, is fastened a -silver star. Her wand is white, with a silver star at -the end. Below the star are several streamers, with the -bells.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid</span> is a tiny boy, in a short, scant slip of pale pink,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span> -over very short white trousers or trunks—short enough -not to show. The slip is cut straight, with low neck -and no sleeves. A drapery of white mosquito netting, -passing over left shoulder, and under right arm, nearly -covering slip, gives a fleecy, cloud-like effect. He has -little wings of pale pink, and wears no shoes nor stockings. -He carries a little silver bow and a golden arrow. -A quiver holding two or three more arrows may be -slung from his right shoulder, and hang at his left side.</p> - -<p class="scene">SCENE.—<i>The Palace of Hearts. The throne, in the -centre background, is a chair, set upon a raised dais, -the whole draped with purple. Upon the floor, in the -centre of the space left before the throne, draw a large -circle. Divide it into eight parts, by lines crossing at -centre. Draw a smaller circle inside the other, having -for a radius one-third the radius of the larger circle. -The little drill or dance by the <span class="ch">Queen’s Maidens</span> is -done on this diagram. Deck background with gold -hearts.</i></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Curtain rises on <span class="ch">Maidens</span>, standing at either side of -throne, baskets of flowers in their hands.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">First Maiden.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Oh, where is the Queen? Why so long delay?</div> -<div class="verse">She should not be late on her natal day.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Second Maiden.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Hark! She is coming! We ready must be</div> -<div class="verse">To join the procession, and bow the knee.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Maidens</span> pass to entrance, form double line, between -which the <span class="ch">Queen</span>, her <span class="ch">Pages</span> holding up the court -train, passes. The <span class="ch">Maidens</span> then fall into line, two -and two, behind them. The procession should pass -entirely around platform, and to <span class="smcapuc">C.</span> back. Then, -while the <span class="ch">Queen</span> and <span class="ch">Pages</span> pass down one side, to -<span class="smcapuc">C.</span> front, the <span class="ch">Maidens</span> pass down <span class="smcapuc">C.</span> and form aisle -to throne, up which the <span class="ch">Queen</span> passes. When she -reaches the throne, she seats herself, the little <span class="ch">Pages</span> -seating themselves on the dais, on either side. -<span class="ch">Maidens</span> arrange themselves on either side, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span> -sing “Hail to the Queen.” The music is that of -“Little Stars” in “Festive Songs for Little -Singers.”)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center">HAIL TO THE QUEEN</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">All hail<span class="marker">[1</span> to her, our lovely Queen, the fairest in the land.</div> -<div class="verse">We joy to be her Maidens true, before her throne to stand.</div> -<div class="verse">We welcome<span class="marker">[2</span> her with glad accord, to her we bow<span class="marker">[3</span> the knee.</div> -<div class="verse">Our hearts<span class="marker">[4</span> are hers in love and truth, and evermore shall be.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="smcap">Chorus</span></div> -<div class="verse">Hail<span class="marker">[5</span> to our fair Queen! Hail to our fair Queen!</div> -<div class="verse">Hail<span class="marker">[6</span> to our fair Queen! The lovely Queen of Hearts.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="dr">(Rise during interlude.)</span></div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">On this, our Queen’s own natal day, we’ve sought in fairest bow’rs,</div> -<div class="verse">And bring,<span class="marker">[7</span> as birthday offerings, these baskets of fair flow’rs.</div> -<div class="verse">We’re bound to her with links of love—with Love’s own silver chain.</div> -<div class="verse">Yes, we are hers in love and truth. Long<span class="marker">[8</span> may she live and reign.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="smcap">Chorus</span></div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="center smaller"><i>(Motions)</i></p> - -<p class="smaller">1—Baskets in left hands. Raise right hand high. 2—Right hand -out, toward Queen. 3—Sink on one knee. 4—Right hand on heart. -5—Wave right hand high, through line. 6—Raise right hand high as -possible, hold through line. 7—Hold baskets, in right hands, out toward -Queen. 8—Raise baskets high, in right hand. In singing second chorus, -they do not kneel. At 5, swing baskets, high, through line. At 6, raise -them high to right. Hold to end of line. At close of song, they march -in front of throne, and lay baskets on lower step of dais, leaving room for -Queen to step from throne.</p> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Thank you, my maids. They are offerings rare.</div> -<div class="verse">Never were blossoms more sweet and fair.</div> -<div class="verse">But I somehow am sad on my natal day.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Third Maiden.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">We will dance, to drive dull care away.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span></p> - -<h3>DANCE OF THE MAIDENS</h3> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(The music should be joyous and rather quick, the -step a light, tripping one. Refer to diagram.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class="figcenter smaller"> - -<img src="images/i-053.jpg" width="400" height="400" alt="Diagram of how the dance works" /> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 1.</span> Meet in front of throne, and form single line. -March down to A. First girl passes down line to E. -Next girl passes to O, then to D; third girl to O, then to -F, others to C, G, B and H, all first passing to O. Last -girl remains at A. During this figure they hold scarfs -above head in both hands.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 2.</span> Each girl tosses end of scarf to next girl. -March entirely around circle.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 3.</span> Face centre, raise scarfs high, still held as in -fig. 2, trip sidewise around circle.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 4.</span> Recover scarfs. Hold them in both hands, -right hand high, left low, and march in, along lines, to -inner circle. March around inner circle, scarfs in right -hands nearly meeting, high in centre, like spokes of a -wheel, march back lines to places again.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 5.</span> Hold strips high over head, turn around in -places, once and a half times, bringing faces to centre -again.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 6.</span> Girls at A and E march up lines to meet at O, -cross scarfs, march around, then march up to J and N, -where each raises scarf above head, turns completely<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span> -around, and then marches on to A and E. Girls at C and -G repeat this figure, then those at B and F, and lastly -those at H and D.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 7.</span> All march completely around circle, swinging -scarfs.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 8.</span> Girls at A, E, C and G march to inner circle, -then around it, then halt on J, N, Q and L, and toss ends -of scarfs to each other. Raise them high. Remaining -girls march down lines, pass between girls, and march in -tiny circle inside. They then pass through, between J -and L, and march in circle outside them, then pass in -again, between J and L, and wind in and out. Repeat -this winding, but first girl stop when she reaches R, next -one on P, third on M and last on K. Toss scarfs, and -raise.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 9.</span> Scarfs so held, all sidestep around this inner -circle, then lower arms and recover scarfs. Step backward -to places on large circle.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 10.</span> Hold scarfs in both hands, dropped easily at -sides. Turn as if to march around circle. First girl -marches down to J, along inner circle to K, up line to B, -along outer circle to C, in on line to L, along to M, and -so on, till she reaches A again. As she passes down first -line, second girl moves from H to A, next girl from G to -H, and so on, all moving up one place. As first girl -moves up second line, girl now at A moves up first line, -all others moving on one place. As second girl passes -up second line, third girl moves down first line, and so on. -Each girl performs the whole figure, which is much easier -than would appear from description, as each simply follows -the one ahead of her, keeping the proper distance -between them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 11.</span> March completely around circle. Then, led -by girls at A and E, half turning each way, march on -circle, and up E O and down A O, to centre. Here, -leaders cross scarfs, march around, then on to C and G. -Next ones do the same, and so on.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 12.</span> March on, on circle, to B and H, marking -time, to allow all to complete fig. 11; then march down -lines to F and D, crossing at centre, then on, to places on -circle.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 13.</span> March completely around circle, face centre, -march in to inner circle. Girls at J and N raise scarfs, -step to centre, back around each other and to place again. -Girls at Q and L repeat this; then girls at R and M; and -lastly, those at K and P. March backward to large -circle.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 14.</span> Run in to inner circle, waving scarfs, then -around inner circle, still waving.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Fig. 15.</span> Girl at J stands still. Girls at R and K run -up to B and H, followed by those at Q and L, while one -at J steps to centre, and those at P and M move up, and -follow, J and N, stepping to P and M. As each reaches -B or H, she runs to her place at side of throne, till all are -in place.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">’Twas very pretty, my maidens fair.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(A knock is heard.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Bluebell, go and see who’s there.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Page</span> with blue ribbons goes out and steps quickly -back again.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bluebell.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">I think it’s a boy, but he’s got wings.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">A fairy, or one of those elfish things?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bluebell.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">I really don’t know. He’s pretty and pink,</div> -<div class="verse">Too little to do any harm, I think.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Well, say he may enter, but not to stay.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Bluebell</span> goes to entrance again, and <span class="ch">Cupid</span> skips in.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Well, well, little fellow! Who are you, pray?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid</span> <span class="dr">(bowing low)</span>.</p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">May I tell my tale in song?</div> -<div class="verse">It will not take me very long.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Ay, sing. But tell us who you are,</div> -<div class="verse">And if you’ve journeyed from afar.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="dr">(<span class="ch">Cupid</span> sings. Tune: “The Rill” from “Festive -Songs for Little Singers.”)</span></p> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="smcap">Cupid’s Song</span></div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">I’m Cupid, brave and wild,</div> -<div class="verse">Half fairy and half child,</div> -<div class="verse">I’m dancing here</div> -<div class="verse">And dancing there,</div> -<div class="verse">To greet me, earth has smiled.</div> -<div class="verse">I’ve wings, on which I fly,</div> -<div class="verse">Up to the sweet blue sky,</div> -<div class="verse">I travel far</div> -<div class="verse">To many a star,</div> -<div class="verse">When no one else is nigh.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="smcap">Chorus</span></div> -<div class="verse">Winging, winging,</div> -<div class="verse">Swift o’er land and sea,</div> -<div class="verse">Singing little songs of love</div> -<div class="verse">Where’er I be.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">With silver bow so true,</div> -<div class="verse">And golden arrow, too,</div> -<div class="verse">I aim my darts</div> -<div class="verse">At people’s hearts.</div> -<div class="verse">Look out! I may shoot you!</div> -<div class="verse">In earth or worlds above,</div> -<div class="verse">Where’er I may rove,</div> -<div class="verse">The heart, you see,</div> -<div class="verse">Once hit by me,</div> -<div class="verse">Will surely fall in love.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="smcap">Chorus</span></div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Methinks you’re a mischievous child, indeed.</div> -<div class="verse">Of you, in this court, we have no need,</div> -<div class="verse">For mankind never enters here,</div> -<div class="verse">So none can fall in love, ’tis clear.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">The fair Queen of Hearts should find her a mate.</div> -<div class="verse">To die an old maid is a dreadful fate.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Not so, Sir Cupid. A virgin to stay,</div> -<div class="verse">Is the fate I wish for, now and alway.</div> -<div class="verse">Besides, I have no mate, you see,</div> -<div class="verse">For no mere man is worthy me.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid</span> <span class="dr">(sings to the tune: “Campbells Are Coming”)</span>.</p> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="verse">He’s coming, he’s coming, ha, ha, ho, ho!</div> -<div class="verse">He’s coming, although you may not think so.</div> -<div class="verse">On Valentine’s Day there’s a mate for each lassie,</div> -<div class="verse">And one for the fair Queen of Hearts, ho, ho!</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Now, wee Sir Cupid, please depart.</div> -<div class="verse">Although so small, yet you are male,</div> -<div class="verse">And none of that sex is allowed</div> -<div class="verse">To stay within my kingdom’s pale.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Maidens.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Oh, he’s so pretty and so pink,</div> -<div class="verse">Please, dear Queen, let him stay!</div> -<div class="verse">He’s just a darling baby!</div> -<div class="verse">With him we’d like to play.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Yes, let me stay a while, and rest!</div> -<div class="verse">I promise to behave my best.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Well, stay, child. You have winning ways;</div> -<div class="verse">And with no men-folks here,</div> -<div class="verse">You cannot do much mischief</div> -<div class="verse">With your arrows, that is clear.</div> -<div class="verse">Hark! Hear that silvery, tinkling sound,</div> -<div class="verse">And that rap, so light and fair,</div> -<div class="verse">It sounds like the touch of a fairy’s wand.</div> -<div class="verse">Rosebud, see who is there.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Page</span> with pink ribbons goes to door, and returns.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Rosebud.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">It is no boy this time, fair Queen,</div> -<div class="verse">But the dearest fairy. May she come in?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Yes, bid her enter.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Rosebud</span> goes to door, and <span class="ch">Fairy</span> flits in.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Lovely fay,</div> -<div class="verse">What seek you in my courts to-day?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Fairy</span> <span class="dr">(sings to the tune: “The Fairies,” in “Festive -Songs for Little Singers”)</span>.</p> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">I’m the dainty little fairy</div> -<div class="verse">That’s called Tinkle Bell.</div> -<div class="verse">To your court, fair Queen, I flitted</div> -<div class="verse">Just to wish you well.</div> -<div class="verse">It was whispered ’mong the fairies,</div> -<div class="verse">’Twas your natal day,</div> -<div class="verse">So our queen, with happy greetings</div> -<div class="verse">Bade me haste away.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">To the Queen of Hearts a message;</div> -<div class="verse">Little Tinkle Bell,</div> -<div class="verse">You must carry very swiftly.</div> -<div class="verse">’Tis a gift as well.</div> -<div class="verse">Tell her that to her I’m sending</div> -<div class="verse">My best gift to-day—</div> -<div class="verse">The best gift in earth or heaven;</div> -<div class="verse">And it’s on its way.</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">What can it be?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">I think I know.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Fairy</span> <span class="dr">(frowning at him, and raising finger in warning)</span>.</p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Nay, impertinent child!</div> -<div class="verse">How can you think so?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Fairy</span> flits about, tinkling bells. She flits up to -<span class="ch">Cupid</span>, and remains by him. While the attention of -the court is taken up with the next admittance, he -aims at the heart of the <span class="ch">Queen</span>. It is not necessary -to shoot, in fact, he had better not. In each -case, throughout the play, he merely aims. Whenever -there is opportunity the <span class="ch">Fairy</span> and Cupid whisper -together, unnoticed by the rest, and <span class="ch">Cupid</span> aims -at every girl in turn, even the little <span class="ch">Pages</span>.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Another knock! Who this time?</div> -<div class="verse">Go see, my pages fair.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(Both <span class="ch">Bluebell</span> and <span class="ch">Rosebud</span> go, but come running -back.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Both.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">It’s boys! It’s boys! And an old, old man!</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Tell them to go away, quick as they can.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Pages</span> go to door again, remain a minute or two, then -return.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bluebell.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">He says his name’s St. Valentine.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Rosebud.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">He claims this natal day of thine.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bluebell.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">He says he of this day is King.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Rosebud.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">And that he’s come a gift to bring.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Well, bid him enter, but alone,</div> -<div class="verse">Since he this day claims for his own.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(They go to door again, and return.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Bluebell.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">He says his attendants must come, too.</div> -<div class="verse">He will not enter, unless they do.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Then tell him he outside must stay.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(They go to door and return.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Rosebud.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">The old man will not go away.</div> -<div class="verse">He says a gift so fair he brings,</div> -<div class="verse">It’s worthy of the wisest Kings</div> -<div class="verse">Or fairest Queens.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Are they young and fair,</div> -<div class="verse">The attendants that are waiting there?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Bluebell.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">They look sad and sober. Their robes are queer.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">For a brief space of time they may enter here.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Pages</span> go to door again, and return, followed by <span class="ch">St. -Valentine</span>, his <span class="ch">Pages</span> holding the train of his robe. -The <span class="ch">Attendants</span> follow, two and two. He stands -before throne, his <span class="ch">Attendants</span> on either side.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">I hear you claim to be a King;</div> -<div class="verse">And that a gift to me you bring.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">E’en so, fair Queen. St. Valentine</div> -<div class="verse">Am I. This day is surely mine.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">But ’tis my natal day as well.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Much happiness doth that foretell.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">But where is the gift you bring to-day?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">’Tis my heart I bring. Accept it, pray.</div> -<div class="verse">’Tis a gift most rare—this that I bring.</div> -<div class="verse">You’re Queen of Hearts, but I am King.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">St. Valentine is ages old.</div> -<div class="verse">Though Love’s a great gift, I’ve been told.</div> -<div class="verse">I am too young to mate with thee,</div> -<div class="verse">Though thou best King on earth might be.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">And if I were not? Were I young and gay,</div> -<div class="verse">Fair Queen, would you say “no” to-day?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Why, really, I like thee passing well,</div> -<div class="verse">Though the reason why I could not tell.</div> -<div class="verse">Why, yes. It’s a safe little word to say,</div> -<div class="verse">Since you are so old, good saint, to-day.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Love can make the heart grow young, and make the face grow fair.</div> -<div class="verse">And the Fairy Love stands in thy court with Cupid, over there.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Love? Why, her name is Tinkle Bell.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Fairy.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Fair Queen, my name is Love, as well.</div> -<div class="verse">So, Valentine, shed all disguise,</div> -<div class="verse">And stand forth, young, before her eyes.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(As she speaks, she touches <span class="ch">St. Val.</span>, then the <span class="ch">Pages</span>, -then she flits to either side, and touches all the <span class="ch">Attendants</span>. -As each is touched, he throws off his -robe, <span class="ch">St. Val.</span> shedding cap and whiskers, also. -These are carried out by the <span class="ch">Pages</span>. Have some one -at entrance to take them.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Why, can this be St. Valentine?</div> -<div class="verse">Young, handsome, gallant, straight and fine?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">It is, indeed; and now, fair Queen,</div> -<div class="verse">Thy promise true thou must redeem.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">’Twas won by fraud. Thou wast not true,</div> -<div class="verse">And so I cannot wed with you.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">It was no fraud, but the power of Love,</div> -<div class="verse">The fairy all other fays above.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Fairy.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Fair Queen, he is truly worthy of you.</div> -<div class="verse">He is brave and noble, tender and true.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Boys</span> <span class="dr">(sing to the tune: “Autumn Leaves,” in “Festive -Songs for Little Singers”)</span>.</p> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">Noblest King in all the world, St. Valentine!</div> -<div class="verse">True and tender, brave and good—St. Valentine!</div> -<div class="verse">Faithful lover will he be,</div> -<div class="verse">True eternally to thee.</div> -<div class="verse">Take the gift he brings to thee. ’Tis divine.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">Share thy royal throne with good St. Valentine.</div> -<div class="verse">Fortunate art thou to have his love as thine.</div> -<div class="verse">With him thou wilt happy be,</div> -<div class="verse">Sorrow never dwell with thee.</div> -<div class="verse">If you’re his, fair Queen, you see, and he’s thine.</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Truly thy courtiers love thee well,</div> -<div class="verse">And noble things of thee they tell.</div> -<div class="verse">Truly, my heart inclines to thee.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">St. Val.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Then give that heart, fair Queen, to me.</div> -<div class="verse">I’ll guard it as my greatest treasure,</div> -<div class="verse">And make my trust to seek thy pleasure.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">I yield. Thou takest what is thine own.</div> -<div class="verse">There’s room for both upon my throne.</div> -</div> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(<span class="ch">Queen</span> moves aside, and <span class="ch">St. Val.</span> seats himself beside -her. His <span class="ch">Pages</span> seat themselves by <span class="ch">Bluebell</span> -and <span class="ch">Rosebud</span>, and the <span class="ch">Attendants</span> move into place -beside the <span class="ch">Maidens</span>, so that all are in pairs.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid</span> <span class="dr">(sings, tune as before. At beginning of sixth -line, <span class="ch">Fairy</span> joins in, and they sing rest of verse and -chorus together)</span>.</p> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">My aim was good and true!</div> -<div class="verse">Fair Queen, I aimed at you.</div> -<div class="verse">My golden dart</div> -<div class="verse">Has pierced your heart—</div> -<div class="verse">Those of your maidens, too.</div> -<div class="verse">In earth, or realms above,</div> -<div class="verse">Wherever you may rove,</div> -<div class="verse">Of gifts so fair,</div> -<div class="verse">Both rich and rare,</div> -<div class="verse">The best of all is love.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="ch">Chorus</span></div> -<div class="verse">Winging, winging,</div> -<div class="verse">Swiftly on our way,</div> -<div class="verse">We brought you this fairest gift,</div> -<div class="verse">Thy natal day.</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Ah, Cupid, in mischief thou’rt bound to be!</div> -<div class="verse">’Twas the opening wedge—admitting thee.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Cupid.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Art thou not glad? Tell me, fair Queen.</div> -<div class="verse">Dost wish thou’dst banished me from the scene?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="ch">Fairy.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">And the little Fairy, Tinkle Bell?</div> -<div class="verse">Art sorry that she came, as well?</div> -<div class="verse">And all these visitors of thine,</div> -<div class="verse">Including brave St. Valentine?</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">Queen.</span></p> - -<div class="metrical"> -<div class="verse">Nay, ye are welcome, every one,</div> -<div class="verse">As well as he who shares my throne.</div> -<div class="verse">Of all fair gifts, from east or west,</div> -<div class="verse">I’m very sure that love is best.</div> -</div> - -<p><span class="ch">All</span> <span class="dr">(sing to the tune: “Easter Day,” in “Festive -Songs for Little Singers”)</span>.</p> - -<div class="container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">In all the world there’s naught so dear,</div> -<div class="verse">There’s naught so rich and rare,</div> -<div class="verse">As this fair gift her natal day</div> -<div class="verse">Brought to our Queen so fair.</div> -<div class="verse">For you may search the whole wide world,</div> -<div class="verse">North, south, or east, or west;</div> -<div class="verse">You ne’er can find a sweeter gift.</div> -<div class="verse">True love is surely best.</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse center"><span class="smcap">Chorus</span></div> -<div class="verse">True love is best, ’tis surely best,</div> -<div class="verse">The heart’s most earnest call.</div> -<div class="verse">In north or south, in east or west,</div> -<div class="verse">The fairest gift of all!</div> -</div> -<div class="stanza"> -<div class="verse">’Tis love that makes the world go round,</div> -<div class="verse">That guides it on its way.</div> -<div class="verse">’Tis love that builds our homes so dear,</div> -<div class="verse">Love that shall live alway!</div> -<div class="verse">’Tis love that keeps the heart e’er young.</div> -<div class="verse">With us through life ’twill stay;</div> -<div class="verse">And last through all eternity,</div> -<div class="verse">For love must live for aye.</div> -</div> -</div> -</div> - -<p class="ct">CURTAIN</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span></p> - -<div class="direction"> - -<div class="dr"> - -<p>(The curtain should rise again, to show the wedding. -The <span class="ch">Clergyman</span>, in the robes of the Episcopal -church, waits at the altar, where is also <span class="ch">St. Valentine</span>, -his <span class="ch">Attendants</span> near. The bridal procession -should enter at one side of the back, if possible, pass -down to the front, across to <span class="smcapuc">C.</span> front, and up <span class="smcapuc">C.</span> to -altar. <span class="ch">Cupid</span> and the <span class="ch">Fairy</span> should precede the procession; -next should come one of the tiny <span class="ch">Pages</span>, -with the ring on a velvet cushion. <span class="ch">Bluebell</span> and -<span class="ch">Rosebud</span> follow, as flower girls, then the <span class="ch">Queen</span>, -followed by her <span class="ch">Maidens</span>, two by two. No change -is necessary in any of the costumes but to add a long -veil of mosquito netting to the <span class="ch">Queen’s</span> costume. -At the altar, <span class="ch">St. Valentine</span> meets her, and they -arrange themselves as for the ceremony, the <span class="ch">Bride</span> -and <span class="ch">Groom</span> kneeling before the <span class="ch">Clergyman</span>. The -curtain may fall on this tableau, or they may rise, -and march out, to the wedding march, if desired. -Of course, in this case, the order will be changed -somewhat.)</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<p class="ct">CURTAIN</p> - -<hr /> - -<div class="bbox"> - -<p class="center larger">A. W. Pinero’s Plays</p> - -<p class="center">Price, 50 Cents Each</p> - -<div class="lines"> - -<p><span class="title">MID-CHANNEL</span> Play in Four Acts. Six males, five females. -Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. -Plays two and a half hours.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE NOTORIOUS MRS. EBBSMITH</span> Drama in Four -Acts. Eight -males, five females. Costumes, modern; scenery, all interiors. -Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE PROFLIGATE</span> Play in Four Acts. Seven males, five -females. Scenery, three interiors, rather -elaborate; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE SCHOOLMISTRESS</span> Farce in Three Acts. Nine males, -seven females. Costumes, modern; -scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE SECOND MRS. TANQUERAY</span> Play in Four Acts. -Eight males, five -females. Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. Plays a -full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">SWEET LAVENDER</span> Comedy in Three Acts. Seven males, -four females. Scene, a single interior; -costumes, modern. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE THUNDERBOLT</span> Comedy in Four Acts. Ten males, -nine females. Scenery, three interiors; -costumes, modern. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE TIMES</span> Comedy in Four Acts. Six males, seven females. -Scene, a single interior; costumes, modern. Plays -a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE WEAKER SEX</span> Comedy in Three Acts. Eight males, -eight females. Costumes, modern; -scenery, two interiors. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">A WIFE WITHOUT A SMILE</span> Comedy in Three Acts. -Five males, four females. -Costumes, modern; scene, a single interior. Plays a full evening.</p> - -</div> - -<p class="center">Sent prepaid on receipt of price by</p> - -<p class="center">Walter H. Baker & Company<br /> -No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts</p> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="bbox"> - -<p class="center larger">The William Warren Edition -of Plays</p> - -<p class="center">Price, 15 Cents Each</p> - -<div class="lines"> - -<p><span class="title">AS YOU LIKE IT</span> Comedy in Five Acts. Thirteen males, four -females. Costumes, picturesque; scenery, varied. -Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">CAMILLE</span> Drama in Five Acts. Nine males, five females. Costumes, -modern; scenery, varied. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">INGOMAR</span> Play in Five Acts. Thirteen males, three females. -Scenery varied; costumes, Greek. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">MARY STUART</span> Tragedy in Five Acts. Thirteen males, four females, -and supernumeraries. Costumes, of the -period; scenery, varied and elaborate. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE MERCHANT OF VENICE</span> Comedy in Five Acts. Seventeen -males, three females. Costumes, -picturesque; scenery varied. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">RICHELIEU</span> Play in Five Acts. Fifteen males, two females. Scenery -elaborate; costumes of the period. Plays a full -evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">THE RIVALS</span> Comedy in Five Acts. Nine males, five females. -Scenery varied; costumes of the period. Plays a -full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER</span> Comedy in Five Acts. Fifteen -males, four females. Scenery varied; -costumes of the period. Plays a full evening.</p> - -<p><span class="title">TWELFTH NIGHT; OR, WHAT YOU WILL</span> Comedy in Five -Acts. Ten males, -three females. Costumes, picturesque; scenery, varied. Plays a -full evening.</p> - -</div> - -<p class="center">Sent prepaid on receipt of price by</p> - -<p class="center">Walter H. Baker & Company<br /> -No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts</p> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<p class="titlepage smaller">S. J. PARKHILL & CO., PRINTERS, BOSTON, U.S.A.</p> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The Changed Valentines, by Elizabeth F. 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