diff options
Diffstat (limited to '76960-0.txt')
| -rw-r--r-- | 76960-0.txt | 2092 |
1 files changed, 2092 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/76960-0.txt b/76960-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9381125 --- /dev/null +++ b/76960-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,2092 @@ + +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 76960 *** + + + + + + THE MINOR DRAMA. + + The Acting Edition. + No. CXXXI. + + ------------------------------------ + + THE CORSAIR; + + OR, THE + + LITTLE FAIRY AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA. + + A New Christmas Burlesque and Pantomime, + + Founded upon the Ballet of “Le Corsaire.” + + -------------- + + BY WILLIAM BROUGH, ESQ., + + Author of Perdita, or the Royal Milkmaid, Prince Prettypet and the + Butterfly, Trying It On, Phenomenon in a Smock-frock, + A Comical Countess, &c., &c. + + -------------- + + TO WHICH ARE ADDED + + A description of the Costume--Cast of the Characters--Entrances + and Exits--Relative Positions of the Performers on the + Stage, and the whole of the Stage Business. + + AS PERFORMED AT THE + + PRINCIPAL ENGLISH AND AMERICAN THEATRES. + + ------------------------------------ + + NEW YORK: + SAMUEL FRENCH, + 122 NASSAU STREET; (UP STAIRS.) + +------------------------------------------------------------------------ + + + + + Cast of Characters.--[THE CORSAIR.] + + ------------------------------------ + + Royal Wallack’s + Lyceum, Theatre + London, 1857. + Dec. 26, + 1856. + + _Conrad, the Corsair_, (“a notable Pirate and Mrs. A. Mrs. John + salt water Thief,” gloomy, misanthropical, Melion, Wood. + ironical and Byronical,) LATE Miss + Woolgar. + + _Birbanto_, (his Lieutenant--an Officer, but not a Mr. J. L. Mr. John + Gentleman,) Toole. Wood. + + _Seyd (or Seedy) Pasha_, (a terrible Turk,) Mr. Mr. H. B. + Barrett. Phillips. + + _Syng Smaul_, (a General Officer--Major-domo, Head Mr. Mr. + Cook and Bottle-washer to the Pasha,) Holston. Holmes. + + _Yussuf_, (in his own country Joseph--or Mr. S. Mr. + familiarly, Old Joe--a renegade Slave Merchant,) Calharm. Peters. + + _Hassan_, (a Boatswain,) Miss + Goward. + + _Medora_, (a Grecian Maiden, Niece and Ward to Mrs. C. Miss J. + Yussuf--a sacred pledge intrusted to her uncle,) Dillon. Manners. + + _Gulnare_, (the reigning Beauty of the Pasha’s Mrs. B. Mrs. + Harem, his favorite, and most other people’s, White. Vernon. + it is hoped--including the audience,) + + _Zuliema_, (a “light of other days” a little Mrs. C. Mrs. Cook. + “faded,”) Melville. + + _Submarina_, (the Fairy guardian of the Deep, Miss J. Mrs. H. B. + Deep Sea, Chief Inspector of the Ocean Police, Ryder. Phillips. + and Deputy Ruler of the Waves,) + + _Serena_, (the Little Fairy at the bottom of the Mrs. M. Miss Emily + Sea,) Wilton. Milton. + + _Corsairs, Slaves, Odalisques, Almas, Water Nymphs, Fairies, Guards, + Attendants, &c._ + +------------------------------------------------------------------------ + + + + + THE CORSAIR. + + + + + SCENE I.--_Marine Aquarium, or Naiad’s Coralline Temple--WATER SPIRITS + discovered sleeping in shells; TRITONS come in and arouse them, by + sounding their conches; SPIRITS rise and dance; a coral grotto + rises, having in it SUBMARINA, CORALIA, AZURINA, TEMPESTIA, &c._ + + + _Sub._ Friends, mermaids, sprites and guardians of the sea, + Leave off your dancing and attend to me; + This is a public meeting, not a ball; + Here come, I’ll take the chair--now silence, all. + + _All._ Hear! hear! + + _Sub._ [C.] Do let me speak, I say, once more-- + Friends, sprites and guardians, + + _Cor._ That you said before. + + _Sub._ Another interruption of this sort, + And I’ll-- + + _Cor._ [R. C.] Well, well, go on--but cut it short; + + _Sub._ Friends, sprites, _et cetera_--We’ve assembled thus, + The state of our dominions to discuss; + Each day we read, in the _Subaqueous Times_, + Of murders, robberies, and other crimes, + Daily committed with impunity, + In open day--upon the open sea-- + Till none are safe who roam the ocean o’er. + + _Cor._ They’re just as safe as if they stayed on shore; + There, too, I’m told, you’ll find on the increase-- + Burglaries--robberies--but _not_ police. + + _Sub._ Pray, what’s the shore to you-- + + _Cor._ I but to tell ye meant. + + _Sub._ Pooh! pooh! on land we’re quite out of our element; + What we’ve to do, is to find out some plan + To rid the ocean of that bad young man, + Conrad the Corsair.--None can safety gain + Until, like gas, he’s turned off from the main; + At all attempts to do so, he has laughed, + While his great cunning saves his little craft; + All commerce doth he from the waters sweep-- + Cleans out the simple ones and scours the deep; + None cross the seas thro’ fear of this vile rover-- + Their spirits fail, ere they get half seas over-- + In short, unless mankind from him we save, + There’ll soon be _no_ life on the ocean wave. + + _Cor._ What shall we do, in his career to check him-- + + _Azurina._ Hang him! + + _Sub._ Can’t catch him. + + _Tempestia._ Raise a storm and wreck him. + + _Sub._ A good idea, most reckless of all men; + His ship destroyed, he’ll not be wreckless then. + About it straight. + + _Music._--_SERENA rises through trap, L. C._ + + _Serena._ One moment hear me, pray. + + _Sub._ A motion, an arrest of judgment, eh! + + _Serena._ Not only that, but one for a new trial. + + _Sub._ Nay--his guilt’s plain. + + _Serena._ Too plain for my denial. + But ’stead of punishing, could we reclaim him-- + + _Sub._ Can you reclaim a tiger? + + _Serena._ You can tame him! + Let me attempt the task. + + _Cor._ Nay, have a care, + We don’t want Conrad made a tame affair. + + _Sub._ Say by what potent magic will you try? + + _Serena._ One which the rudest breast can purify-- + Lifting the soul all meaner thoughts above-- + The magic influence of woman’s love. + + _Cor._ Ho! ho! I see--the Corsair’s handsome face + And figure, eh? + + _Azurina._ A most decided case. + + _Cor._ You’re smitten, miss. + + _Serena._ I scorn the imputation; + I am a fairy, and I know my station! + + _Sub._ No quarreling--I own your plan seems strange; + Think you that love can work this mighty change? + + _Serena._ Madam, I’ve heard of fast young men on town, + Desperate dogs, by marriage settled down-- + Men, who for years would not go home till morning, + Found the domestic tea-table adorning; + Smokers, I’ve heard, have put their pipes out--nay + I’ve even heard of latch-keys thrown away. + Can love do this, and yet be unavailing, + To cure a paltry pirate’s little failing? + Let Conrad only get a loving wife, + And, on my word, he’ll lead another life. + + _Sub._ Enough--we’ll try your plan. + + _Serena._ I ask no more, + Than leave of absence for a month on shore-- + If, ere that time be passed, I don’t succeed, + Then wreck him, or whate’er you please-- + + _Sub._ Agreed! + + [_Music._--_The SPIRITS form a group, and SERENA is seen + darting up towards the earth as the scene closes._ + + + + + SCENE II.--_Market Place in Stamboul, and Oriental Slave Bazaar._ + + + _Cheering outside._--_Enter CORSAIRS, L._ + + _1st Cors._ Come lads, our Captain’s given us a holiday + On shore to-day, and so let’s have a jolly day-- + We’ve been of late so close to business sticking, + We want some change. + + _2d Cors._ Let’s try some pocket-picking-- + + _1st Cors._ You’d find small change in that-- + + _2d Cors._ Yes, ’twould be strange, + In people’s pockets not to find _small change_. + + _3d Cors._ But see, our noble Captain comes this way-- + + _1st Cors._ Three cheers for Conrad--Hip, hip, hip, hurray! + + _Enter CONRAD, L._ + + _Conrad._ There, that’ll do--Hip, hip, indeed--what stuff-- + As if I’m not already hipped enough. [_Crosses R._ + + _1st Cors._ Cheer up, my hearty-- + + _Conrad._ Man! I’m not your hearty, + And to cheer up, I’m not at all the party. + + _1st Cors._ Why is great Conrad ever sad? + + _Conrad._ Ah, why? + Who can explain this secret grief; not I-- + That secret kept so dark, none e’er saw through it-- + I don’t believe that even Byron knew it. [_Crosses, L._ + + Go, go, poor giddy things, employ your leisure, + In seeking what the thoughtless world calls pleasure. + + _1st Cors._ Say, is there aught you’d like, that we can bring, + To soothe your grief-- + + _Conrad._ [L.] I don’t like anything; + The gloomy spirit in this aching breast, + Despises most things, and can’t bear the rest; + Deems happiness an empty sound, no more; + The world a humbug--life itself a bore-- + There’s nothing in it! Leave me. [_They are going._ + Tell me, though, + Hast seen Birbanto our lieutenant? + + _1st Cors._ No. [_Exeunt, R._ + + _Enter BIRBANTO, L._ + + _Birb._ Behold him, here! What would great Conrad--Eh? + Anything wanted in my little way? [_Drawing his dagger._ + + If so, just give your orders and it’s done-- + From pitch and toss to manslaughter, all’s one. + + _Conrad._ Thou art the best o’ the cut-throats-- + + _Birb._ I’m no bragger, + But, I must say, I’m not bad at a dagger, + I’ve one to serve you with in any way, + [_Aside._] And serve you out with, too, I hope, some day. + + _Conrad._ You’re very kind. + + _Birb._ But pardon the suggestion-- + My dagger’s point was not the point in question. + You asked for me-- + + _Conrad._ I might have done. Heigho! + + _Birb._ Pooh! try some drink--you’re several cups too low. + + _Conrad._ Nay, I have tried--I drained a flask this minute---- + + _Birb._ Well, when you’d drained it? + + _Conrad._ There was nothing in it. + All things I’ve tried, but they bring no relief + To the used-up, bored, _blase_ pirate chief. + Travel I’ve tried, from place to place still dodging, + You’ll find me _bored_ where’er you find me lodging. + The stormy waves no change to me afford, + For if I’m shipwrecked, still I’m over_board_; + I’ve sought excitement east, west, north, and south, + In battle-strife--e’en at the cannon’s mouth, + But all in vain: amid the battle’s roar, + I found the cannon’s mouth was but a _bore_! + Enough of this. + + _Birb._ [_Aside._] Too much for me to stand; + A pretty fellow to command our band. + Oh, I should like to---- + [_Raises dagger; CONRAD turns round; BIRBANTO + bows after the approved style of melodrama._ + + _Conrad._ Where’s my galley? + + _Birb._ [_Pointing off R._] Sir, + The _gal_ley’s there--that _buoy_’s attached to her. + + _Conrad._ Keep her in readiness to sail to-night, + In case of accidents. D’ye hear? + [_Same business with the dagger._ + + _Birb._ [_Bowing._] All right! + [_Exit CONRAD, R._ + + It shall be so. We’ve stood him long enough-- + A spoony, pining, sentimental muff; + He’s not at all my notion of a Corsair-- + I like black worsted curls and beard of horsehair; + The good old heavy style of melodram, + More like the individual I am. + Yet the band love him. Well, it is but right + To own he is the very deuce to fight, + When he begins. No matter! we shall see + Which they prefer to lead them--him or me! + To sound them on the point, at once I go forth. + [_Shaking his fist towards where CONRAD has gone off._ + + Tremble! Despair! Ha, ha! Revenge! and so forth! + + + _Song._--BIRBANTO.--_Air, “Dusty Bob’s Hornpipe.”_ + + Scruples, lie down--for in guilt I’m dyed so deep already; + Harder ’twould be to go back than to proceed. + After the scores that this dagger’s sent to sleep already + Why should I pause at one other little deed? + Tremble, proud Conrad--a foe you don’t expect in me; + Tremble--despair--as, I think, I said before. + You once removed--as their leader--they electing me-- + Crown all the hopes that so long I’ve pondered o’er. + + Let them consent, and but once transfer the rule to me, + I’d show them how they their work should go about; + A ticket-of-leave man himself would be a fool to me; + Garotters confess that I beat ’em out and out. + Robbing, attacking all--plundering, whacking all-- + I get the lion’s share, of course, of all the dibs; + If they’ll fall in with it, now I’ll begin with it, + Sticking at nothing except our leader’s ribs. [_Exit R._ + + _Enter a number of female SLAVES, followed by YUSSUF, L._ + + _Yussuf._ Now then, you tarnal critters, look alive. + I have had many lots of slaves to drive, + Of all sorts and complexions--black, white, and red; + You whip them all--from Uncle Tom to Dred! + Come, look alive, I tell you. Take your places, + None of your airs--but plenty of your graces. + Be careful of your smiles, and mind your eyes; + It’s market-day, remember. Come, who buys? + + _March._--_Enter PASHA, SYNG SMAUL, and GUARDS, R._ + + _Pasha._ Halt! curs! + + _Syng._ Halt, curs--d’ye hear? + + _Pasha._ Of course they hear. + + _Syng._ [L.] Great Pasha! + + _Pasha._ Slave, who bid you interfere? + + _Syng._ I’m dumb. + + _Yussuf._ [R.] Great Brother of the Sun and Moon, + How do you find yourself, this afternoon? + + _Pasha._ [C.] We thank thee, dog, we’re pretty well. + + _Syng._ Rejoice! + Let all the earth raise high its joyful voice; + All care and grief from every heart abolish, + Our mighty Pasha, feels himself tol-lol-ish. + Shout all of you. [_All shout._ + + _Pasha._ [_Striking him._] Be quiet-- + + _Syn._ [_Striking another._] Slaves, be dumb. + How dare you make this row-- + + _Pasha._ But business--come-- + What hast thou got to sell, dog? + + _Yussuf._ Sire, I deem + These here Circassians, the Circassian cream + Of excellence, in all points--figures--faces-- + Trot out, you critters, come, and show your paces. + + _Music._--_The SLAVES dance out one by one, and pass before the PASHA._ + + _Pasha._ [_Looking at them one by one._] Too dark! too fair! + too red! too short! too tall! + Too lean! too fat! pooh! pooh! won’t do at all. + Hast thou no others, pig? + + _Yussuf._ No, sire; you see + My wholesale merchant disappointed me; + I’ve ordered in some beauties. + + _Pasha._ Reptile, peace! + Who’s this? + + _Yussuf._ That, sire? Medora, my young niece. + + _Enter MEDORA, dancing, L._ + + There, that’ll do--just cut these capers--stop! + Must I for ever catch you on the hop? + + _Medora._ Nay, be not angry, uncle-- + + _Yussuf._ Then stand still! + + _Medora._ With pleasure, if it pleases you, I will; + But I’m so happy--feel my heart so light; + The air’s so balmy, and the sun so bright. + The gladness that’s inspired by all around, + Finds vent in _jumps_, because it knows no _bound_. + + _Pasha._ She’ll do! Come hither, dog, a word with you. + [_YUSSUF approaches, they whisper, L. C._ + + _Medora._ [_Uneasy._] What’s that dark stranger, whispering? + + _Pasha._ Pooh! pooh! + + _Yussuf._ But, sire, to sell one’s niece, like any nigger! + ’Possums and rattlesnakes! Say what’s the figure? + + _Pasha._ [L.C.] Name your own price. + + _Yussuf._ [L.] My niece--so good, so true-- + So dear to me. Well, she’ll be dear to you, + What say you to one thousand chequeens? + + _Pasha._ Done. + + _Yussuf._ [_Aside._] I wish I’d ask’d him five, instead of one. + + _Medora._ What strange presentiment of woe comes o’er me? + + _Pasha._ Conduct her home. + + _Syng._ Fair slave, just march before me! + + _Medora._ Slave! knave! behave! I am no slave--I’m free! + You are deceived; + + _Syng._ Nay, you are sold--not me; + + _Medora._ I sold! Who’d dare to sell me? + + _Syng._ Can’t you guess-- + + _Medora._ Oh, my prophetic soul! my uncle-- + + _Yussuf._ Yes; + I’m very sorry, but-- + + _Medora._ You sorry--stuff! + + _Yussuf._ I guess I am. [_Aside._] I didn’t charge enough. + + _Medora._ [_To PASHA._] I am no slave, good sir, I’m free--then + please ye, + To calm my fears, and make me free and easy. + + _Yussuf._ There! don’t orationize the case about. + + _Medora._ If you’re my uncle, you will let me spout. + + _Pasha._ No words--you are my slave. [_Seizes her._ + + _Medora._ Help! help! + + _Enter CONRAD, R._ + + _Conrad._ How now? + Some work for me it seems; I like a row. [_Draws sword._ + + Villains! + + _Pasha._ Holloa! + + _Medora._ Sir, save me if you can-- + + _Conrad._ Yes, I’ll _see fair_; I’m a _sea-faring_ man; + And on the stage no sailor can do less, + Than rescue lovely women in distress: + And so here goes. + [_Throws SYNG SMAUL across to R._--_Tableau._ + + _Pasha._ Guards, hew him limb from limb! + + _Medora._ No, mercy! take my life, but pardon him. + + _Conrad._ Pooh! pooh! fair maid, let them come on--they dare not; + Come--the whole lot of you at once--I care not. + + _Song._--CONRAD.--_Air, “La tremenda ultrice Spada.”_ + + Ten to one, now come on to the attack, sirs, + Were it ten times ten I’d not yield, sirs, + What’s the odds, I myself still back, sirs, + Ten to one on the favorite ’gainst the field. + Ten to one--who says done?--still no takers, + Ten to one--you, my friends, are quakers, + Ten to one--you’ll say done in a crack, sirs. + When my name and my address I have revealed. + + _Yussuf._ [R.] Go at him--all at once. [_GUARDS rush forward._ + + _Conrad._ Stay! by-the-bye, + You’d like to know, p’rhaps, who I am? + + _Pasha._ Not I! + + _Conrad._ Well, mind you, I can fight--I give you warning. + + _Medora._ Who can it be, these fearful odds thus scorning? + + _Pasha._ My guards are ready. + + _Medora._ Stay--your name avow! + + _Conrad._ Conrad the Corsair! [_GUARDS shrink away._ + + Are they ready now? + + _Yussuf._ Jerusalem! [_Exit, R., followed by the GIRLS._ + + _Pasha._ The Corsair! murder! fire! + [_Runs out, followed by GUARDS, L._ + + _Conrad._ [L.] Fair maid, you’re safe--permit me to retire. + + _Medora._ [R.] Nay, fly not yet, or else let me fly too, + I’m not safe here--they’ll soon return. + + _Conrad._ That’s true, + And doubtless, though the case I’ve yet to learn, + You’ll get small profit by their quick return; + But still to come with me---- + + _Medora._ Oh, take me hence! + I will not put you to the least expense; + I’ll work my passage out--wash, cook, bake, brew for you. + Will be your slave, and regularly do for you. + + _Conrad._ [_Aside._] I fear you would, if long at you I looked, + And my own goose be the first thing you cooked. + [_Aloud._] But think upon the dangers of the sea. + + _Medora._ Those dangers have no terrors, sir, for me. + + _Conrad._ A common boast--the would-be yachting man, + Who talked so bravely ere the trip began, + I have seen rush, at the first lurch, to leeward, + His boasting sunk in one faint cry of “steward.” + + _Medora._ Fear not my courage; take me with you, do. + + _Conrad._ I’ve half a mind. + + _Medora._ I should be safe with you; + But if left here alone, then should I be + _Alone_ without the least _security_. + + _Conrad._ Enough! it shall be so--your words prevail. + The best security is _power of sail_; + So, to set sail at once must be our plan, + The crew may follow the best way they can. + + _Song._--CONRAD.--_Air, “My Skiff is by the Shore.”_ + + My skiff is on the shore, she manned must be, + By one little boy, yourself, and me; + Can I call it manned, though, when of the three, + One is a small boy, and another a she. + Fa, la, la, &c. + My skiff is on the shore--then come with me, + Since here with you ’twould be all U P. + [_MEDORA dances to chorus--exeunt, L._ + + _SERENA rises from trap, R. C._ + + _Serena._ So far, so good! my plans are working nicely; + That’s just the sort of girl he wants precisely, + Modest, sportive, happy, kind, affectionate; + With heart as light as a cheap grocer’s weight. + He’s half in love as ’tis--but to make sure, + All sorts of dangers they shall first endure; + For true love’s course, in palace, cottage, booth, + Like omnibuses, never yet ran smooth; + And of all plans to win a man’s affection, + The surest is, to trust him for protection. + To aid my plans, first, shipwrecked he shall be; + When the ship sinks, all must go swimmingly-- + To raise the wind, at once the seas I’ll cross, + And set the waves all playing pitch and toss. + + + _Song._--SERENA.--_Air, “Over the Sea.”_ + + Over the sea!--now will I flee-- + Mind, it’s a secret between you and me; + Soon you will see--don’t say ’twas me-- + Somebody coming it strong! + + Even March! March! March! + With his winds and rough weather, + Such storm ne’er could gather: + Old March! March! March! + Shall confess himself beaten ere long. + + It’s over the sea! Over the sea! + Like Mother Carey’s bird now will I flee-- + Over the sea! Over the sea! + Raising the wind pretty strong. [_Exit R._ + + + + + SCENE III.--_A Storm at Sea, with the wreck of the Golden Mary._ + + + _CONRAD’S vessel discovered, surrounded by the raging waters._ + _CONRAD, + MEDORA and SAILOR, discovered on the deck._ + + _Conrad._ Courage, Medora, all will yet be well; + I s’pose you ne’er saw such a heavy swell? + Cheer up! you’re pale--you must be ill, I’m thinking? + + _Medora._ No, no! I only feel a little sinking. + [_Noise of ship striking._ + + Hark! the ship’s striking--we are lost! + + _Conrad._ Pooh! pooh! + Who cares, if the effect is striking too, + If with the public we go down to-night! + + _Medora._ She sinks! we’re _going down_! + + _Conrad._ We are? All right! + [_Ship sinks. Scene closes._ + + + + + SCENE IV.--_The Pirate’s Home._--_A large arch in C., with curtains + closed. Music._ + + + _Enter BIRBANTO and YUSSUF, stealthily, L._ + + _Yussuf._ [L.] Say, stranger. + + _Birb._ [R.] Hush! don’t speak,--don’t breathe--don’t wink! + + _Yussuf._ All slick, old coon, we see’d the critter sink + In last night’s storm. + + _Birb._ He’s saved tho’, I’ll be bound; + Men born for his fate, never can be drowned. + + _Yussuf._ How was it we escaped? + + _Birb._ Because, you see, + We were not born for drowning more than he. + But come, to business! where’s the cash? fork out! + + _Yussuf._ I’d rather have the gal back, first. + + _Birb._ No doubt. + + _Yussuf._ I’ll liquidate, safe as the bank. + + _Birb._ Just so; + But then banks are not always safe, you know. + No trust. + + _Yussuf._ [_Gives money._] Well, there. Now, how d’ye mean to fix him? + + _Birb._ A sleeping draught I’ll go at once and mix him, + So strong, that if his food in it you steep, + You’d even catch a weasel fast asleep. + + _Yussuf._ I see. So then, when he this potion drinking, + Goes off like nodding, we go off like winking, + And take the gal. + + _Birb._ [_Aside._] A rash step, p’raps, I’ve taken; + I’d take a rasher, could I save my bacon, + And settle him at once, clean out of hand, + But that I fear the vengeance of the band. + No matter, time will come. Hah! hah! + + _Yussuf._ I say. + + _Birb._ I beg your pardon. Come--away! away! + [_Exit melo-dramatically, followed by YUSSUF, R._ + + _Music._--_The curtains in the arch, C., are raised, and discover + CONRAD reclining on a couch of tiger skins, smoking a chibouque, + MEDORA seated at his feet._ + + _Conrad._ And so your uncle sold you into slavery? + The monster! + + _Medora._ Had it not been for your bravery---- + + _Conrad._ There, that’s enough; these fervent thanks withhold. + + _Medora._ Say, are you sure you haven’t caught a cold, + Last night when struggling with the waves so cruel? + Do let me make you just one drop of gruel. [_Rises._ + + _Conrad._ A pirate taking gruel! doubtless you + Would like my feet put in hot water, too? + + _Medora._ I should, ’twould do you good. + + _Conrad._ And I suppose + You’d further counsel tallowing my nose? + + _Medora._ ’Twould be as well. Nay, come, from laughing cease; + Were you a patriot, you’d stick up for _grease_. + + _Conrad._ Her care for me is really charming! Come, + Sit down, Medora--make yourself at home. + + _Medora._ Nay, I’m your slave. + + _Conrad._ [_Aside._] My love for her gets stronger. + + _Medora._ Your waiting maid. + + _Conrad._ Nay, you shall wait no longer. + [_He rises; she dances away coquettishly, he + following_--_CONRAD sings to music of dance._ + + + _Air.--“The Fan Dance.” (Spanish.)_ + + Sweetest, your charms have restored me, + All once bored me--_ennui_ floored me. + Oh, my heart now you’ve fill’d with gladness, + Away have you chased its sadness! + Medora, oh! don’t say me no. + + Say you’ll be mine--then pray do, love! + For ’tis you, love, are my true love; + Oh! don’t turn away your face, dear, + But do grant me one embrace, dear, + You will not refuse me, I know. + + Come, sweet Medora--say that you’ll be mine! + + _BIRBANTO crawls on from R._ + + _Birb._ Now, how to do it--hah, the wine! the wine! + [_Pours liquid from vial into CONRAD’S + glass, and exit at back. MEDORA sinks + into CONRAD’S arms; he kisses her._ + + _Conrad._ No more a slave--this liberty affords you; + Your lover, not your master, looks towards you. + [_Drinks_--_chord._ + + How’s this? a sudden drowsiness, methinks; + Would you excuse me just for forty winks? [_Sleeps._ + + _Medora._ Sleep--I’ll hold watch, so shall no harm befall him. + Holding the watch, I shall know when to call him. + + _Soft music.--Enter YUSSUF and BIRBANTO, stealthily, R._ + + _Birb._ There lies the man of mystery, dark and deep, + So slow when waking--yet how fast asleep! + Now is your time--quick to your task allotted. + [_Gives him scarf._ + + _Yussuf._ Slick as greased light’ning. + [_Throws scarf over MEDORA’S head._ + + _Birb._ Cleverly garrotted. + + _Medora._ [_Struggling_:] Help! Murder! + + _Birb._ Silence her--choke--muzzle--gag her. + Or, stay--let me assist you with a dagger. + + _Yussuf._ No. No. + + _Medora._ Help! Conrad! + + _Yussuf._ Silence--come along! + [_Drags her out, R._ + + _Medora._ Help! + + _Birb._ [_Calling after him._] Get a pitch-plaster and pitch it strong. + + _Enter CORSAIRS, L._ + + _1st Cors._ What noise was that? A cry for help we heard-- + + _Birb._ [_Aside._] So just in time--[_aloud_]--a cry--pooh! pooh! + absurd! + + _2d Cors._ I’m sure I heard a voice for aid imploring-- + + _Birb._ Pshaw! you’re mistaken--’twas our captain snoring. + + _1st Cors._ [_Seeing CONRAD._] Conrad asleep! + + _Birb._ Yes, that’s a pretty way + For a great pirate chief to pass the day! + Hear me, my friends--our captain is a do. + + _1st Cors._ How? + + _Birb._ Not the leader for brave men like you. + + _1st Cors._ Nay, have a care how Conrad you abuse-- + + _Birb._ A spooney humbug--always in the blues-- + Pining and sighing-- + + _2d Cors._ Well, that’s true enough-- + He is too sentimental. + + _Birb._ He’s a muff! + Not fit to be our leader. + + _1st Cors._ P’raps you’re right. + + _Birb._ Didn’t he leave us all on shore, last night, + To get home as we could? + + _2d Cors._ That was a fault. + + _Birb._ Let’s give him pepper--he’s not worth his salt. + + _Corsairs._ We will--we will. + + _Birb._ Said like brave men and true! + You mean, though, what you say? + + _Corsairs._ We do--we do. + + _Birb._ One blow and we are free--we then can take + Another leader--come-- + + [_Music._--_They approach CONRAD, with daggers raised. + The Scene opens and SERENA appears behind._ + + _Serena._ Wake, Conrad, wake. + + _Conrad._ [_Starts up._] Methought I heard a voice cry, sleep no + more-- [_Sees CORSAIRS._ + + Halloa! [_They slink away._] Here, stop! don’t go. Ho! + guard the door. + This looks like a rebellion, eh, my men? + [_CORSAIRS kneel._ + + _1st Cors._ [L.] Pardon us, mighty Conrad. + + _Birb._ [_Aside, R._] Sold again! + + _2d Cors._ It was Birbanto, here, that drove us to it. + + _Birb._ Pardon, great chief, I didn’t go to do it. + + _Conrad._ Kneel, traitor! + + _Birb._ [_Kneeling._] Can you, then, forgive? + + _Conrad._ Ne’er doubt it. + [_Throws money amongst them._ + + Go drink my health, and say no more about it. + + _All._ Long live great Conrad. Hip! hip! hip! hurrah! + [_Exeunt CORSAIRS, L._ + + _Birb._ [_Aside._] Defeated, foiled--no matter--hah! hah! hah! + [_Exit BIRBANTO, L._ + + _Serena._ [_Advances R._] Bravely done, Conrad, this great generosity. + + _Conrad._ Beg pardon! you’ll excuse my curiosity-- + But whom have I the honor to address? + + _Serena._ [R.] I am a fairy. + + _Conrad._ You then saved me? + + _Serena._ [C.] Yes. + + _Conrad._ Speak! where’s my love--my Venus--my Medora? + + _Serena._ Your Venus! nay, prepare to meet a _floorer_! + She’s gone! + + _Conrad._ Gone? + + _Serena._ Nay, don’t start; yet p’raps you’d better, + And start at once, if back you hope to get her. + + _Conrad._ Tell me, where shall I seek my priceless treasure? + + _Serena._ Promise me one thing first. + + _Conrad._ I do with pleasure. + What is it? + + _Serena._ That when you’ve regained this maid, + You will retire from the Corsair trade; + Marry, and live respectably. + + _Conrad._ Agreed! + I’ve long been weary of the life I lead-- + So I’ll reform. + + _Serena._ This is indeed felicity! + + _Conrad._ Turn steady, and go in for domesticity: + Stand for churchwarden, and the vestry sit on; + Aye, and pay rates and taxes like a Briton. + + _Duet._--_Air, “Home, sweet Home.”_ + + _Serena._ All pleasures are fallacies for those who roam; + Howe’er folks may grumble, there’s no place like + home. + + _Conrad._ Tho’ duns may come daily--tho’ poor’s rates may + call-- + Give me them and the butcher’s bill dearer than all. + + _Serena._ Home, home, sweet home, } + There’s no place like home; } + Whoever deny it, there’s no place } + like home. } + } [_Together._] + _Conrad._ Home, home, sweet home, } + A slow place is home; } + However, I’ll try it, and go in } + for home. } + + _Both._ Farewell! Farewell! [_SERENA sinks, R. C._ + + + _Song._--CONRAD.--_Air, “My Mary Ann.”_ + + Fare you well, my own Mary Ann, + Or whatever your name may be; + These fairies seldom give their names, + And so I christen she, “Mary Ann.” + + Let me once more see my own turtle-dove, + I’ll keep my word with you; + Excuse me if I’ve named you wrong, + And still assist me, do, Mary Ann. + Fare you well, my own Mary Ann, &c. + [_Exit, R._ + + + + + SCENE V.--_The Harem, with the Gardens of the Pasha’s Palace._ + + + _ODALISQUES dancing. Enter GULNARE, L., and ZULIEMA, R.; the + ODALISQUES dance round GULNARE._ + + _Zuli._ How’s this? Am I no longer mistress here? + + _Gul._ Well, don’t be angry with them, there’s a dear; + You can’t put old heads on young shoulders. + + _Zuli._ No. + But you can take the young heads off them, though. + They’d best not slight me! + + _Gul._ Madam, pray control + Your passion; do now, there’s a good old soul. + + _Zuli._ Old soul! No matter--we shall see. + + _Gul._ No doubt + With spectacles you might--you won’t without! + + _Zuli._ Proud beauty; though your eye now brightly twinkles---- + + _Gul._ There--there; don’t frown, it only shows the wrinkles. + + _Zuli._ Dare you thus openly, then, to deride + One whom the Pasha’s chosen for his bride? + + _Gul._ Nay, I’ve no wish a quarrel to be picking; + But you must own, my friend, you’re not a chicken. + + _Zuli._ I blush for you. + + _Gul._ You can’t--your paint beneath---- + + _Zuli._ ’Tis false! + + _Gul._ Just so. + + _Zuli._ You say this to my teeth? + + _Gul._ To teeth--to hair--to all the charge extending; + That wig--the head and _front_ of your offending. + + _Zuli._ I’ll have you bow-stringed! + + _Gul._ Yes, a likely thing. + First catch your _beau_ before you talk of string. + D’ye think the Pasha cares for you? Not he. + + _Zuli._ Indeed! But here he comes--now we shall see. + + _Enter PASHA, L. U. E._--_ZULIEMA runs to him and seizes him + by the arm._ + + _Trio._--_Irish Air._ + + _Zuli._ Mighty Pasha, grant your slave + Vengeance on this beauty bold. + + _Gul._ Mighty Pasha, I would crave + Safety from this vixen old. + + _Pasha._ Will you hold this dreadful row, now? + + _Zuli._ Will you put this upstart down, now? + + _Gul._ Her conceit has grown so big, sir-- + + _Zuli._ She declares I wear a wig, sir-- + + _Pasha._ How, now, now--will you hold your row? + I’m by no means in good humor--not just now. + + _Pasha._ Leave me. + + _Zuli._ Alas! your love for me, then, cools. + [_Embracing him._ + + _Pasha._ Oh, be off--old fools are the worst of fools! + Come here, Gulnare--the cause of this explain: + + _Zuli._ [_R., Mincingly._] It was my face. + + _Gul._ [L.] You see the cause is plain-- + She boasted that she was your wife to be, + When you remember, sire, you promised me. + + _Pasha._ [_Aside._] I know, to both of them I’ve pledged my word-- + It’s very awkward, for I love a third. + + _Zuli._ Great Pasha, say, shall I not be your bride? + + _Gul._ I’ll leave it to your taste, sire, to decide. + + + _Song._--PASHA.--“_Beggar’s Opera._” + + How happy could I be with neither; + Now t’other dear charmer’s away, + I don’t care a button for either; + And so what the deuce can I say, + Except tol de rol, oh, my Medora-- + Tol de rol, rol de rol lay-- + You’ve deserted your ardent adorer, + And left him to misery a prey. + [_A loud single knock._ + + _Enter SYNG SMAUL, L. 1 E._ + + _Pasha._ How now, slave? + + _Syng._ Sire, a man is at the door, + He’s got a slave to sell. + + _Pasha._ I’ll buy no more. + [_Exit SYNG SMAUL._ + + I’m plagued to death as ’tis, with those I’ve got. + + _Re-enter SYNG SMAUL, L. 1 E._ + + What now? + + _Syng._ He says you have bought this one. + + _Pasha._ What? + + _Syng._ And though to you such message may sound funny; + He said he would’nt leave without the money. + + _Pasha._ Insolent caitiff! show him in--and stay-- + Request our headsman, too, to step this way. + [_Exit SYNG SMAUL._ + + _Gul._ [_Aside._] Who is this madman, rushing on to slaughter? + + _Enter YUSSUF with MEDORA, veiled, L. 1 E._ + + _Yussuf._ How are you, Pasha? Here’s the gal; I caught her. + + _Pasha._ What girl, dog? + + _Yussuf._ [_Raising her veil._] See! + + _Pasha._ Medora! + + _Medora._ Sire, have pity! + + _Zuli._ [_Looking at MEDORA._] Young, but uncultivated! + + _Gul._ [_Looking at MEDORA._] Plump, but pretty! + + _Medora._ Save me, sir, from this man? + + _Pasha._ Nay, sweet--you see---- + + _Medora._ You won’t? Enough! Thus, then, myself I free. + [_Draws dagger; is about to stab herself._ + + _Yussuf._ Hold on, until I’m paid--at least. Ho! seize her. + + _Medora._ Villain, for you, then. [_Runs at him with dagger._ + + _Yussuf._ Back her! stop her! ease her! + [_Runs out, L._ + + _Pasha._ Halloa! It seems your dagger you are quick at! + + _Medora._ Yes, for great wrongs I never trifles stick at. + + _Pasha._ But he’s your uncle. + + _Medora._ [L.] Kindred’s no protection. + I raised this knife to cut my own connexion. + + _Pasha._ Nay, sweet Medora. [_Kneels._ + + _Zuli._ Sir, what are you at? + Kneeling before a little minx like that. + + _Pasha._ Silence! + + _Gul._ To me can you forget your vow? + + _Pasha._ Somebody stop these women’s tongues. + + _Enter SYNG SMAUL, L._ + + How now? + + _Syng._ A wandering dervise, by fatigue oppressed, + Begs you’ll allow him to come in and rest. + + _Pasha._ Admit him. + + SYNG SMAUL goes off, and returns with CONRAD, L., + disguised as a dervise; he bows to PASHA. + + Sir, come in, your boon we grant. + + _An ATTENDANT brings wine._ + + Drink, sir; this maid will dance meanwhile. + + _Medora._ I shan’t. + + _Pasha._ No sulks, young woman; we’ve an ugly knack + Of giving ladies who rebel--the sack. + + _Syng._ Into the river, tied in bags, they’re shied. + + _Medora._ Tied in a bag? I care not what _betide_. + + _Conrad._ [_Aside to her._] Fear naught. + + _Medora._ That voice! + + _Conrad._ Take heed--don’t shout like that out. + + _Medora._ [_Aside._] Talking of bags, I’d nearly let the cat out. + + _Pasha._ Once for all--will you dance at my command? + + _Conrad._ Stay, you’ve no music; let me call my band. + [_Blows horn._] My followers, ho! + + _Pasha._ What mean these rude alarms? + + _Medora._ The trumpet calls, and thus we fly to arms. + [_They embrace._ + + _Pasha._ Tear them asunder! + + [_Music._--_SYNG SMAUL seizes MEDORA_--_struggle, + in which_ CONRAD’S _cloak falls off._ + + Ho! the Corsair! murder! + + [_LADIES scream_--_all rush off, carrying MEDORA, + struggling, R._ + + _Conrad._ [_Blows horn._] My followers, ho! + + _Enter BIRBANTO, L._ + + _Birb._ They’ll follow you no furder! + + _Conrad._ You have not dared to tamper with them, slave? + + _Birb._ Well, if you ask the question then--I _have_. + + _Conrad._ Traitor! + [_Draws sword._ + + _Birb._ I scorn your threats and you alike! + + _Conrad._ This to decide between us then. + + _Birb._ [_With the approved Victoria pronunciation._] Ster-ike! + [_Music._--_They strike attitudes for a broad sword + combat_--_CONRAD stops suddenly._ + + _Conrad._ [_Looking at his sword, a light elegant one._] + Stop! for stage combats this is not the thing, + Just wait while I exchange it at the wing. + [_Goes to wing, R., and returns with + the orthodox basket hilt._ + + Now then to meet your fate so well deserved. + Come on! + + _Birb._ Ster-ike, as I before observed. + [_Desperate single combat_--_BIRBANTO gets the worst of it._ + + Help! help! + + _Conrad._ Take that--in vain for help you call. + + _Birb._ [_Falls._] That cut was the unkindest cut of all. + + _Conrad._ Die, villain! [_GUARDS rush in and surround him._ + + _Birb._ Saved! + + _Syng._ Ho! guards, to pieces tear him. + + _Conrad._ I’m dished--I ask no quarter. + + _Medora._ [_Runs in R., and kneels._] Spare him--spare him. + + _Tableau_--_scene closes._ + + + + + SCENE VI.--_A Corridor._--_Practicable door, R., a barred window, L._ + + + _Enter SYNG SMAUL, leading in MEDORA, L._ + + _Syng._ Fair maid, you’ll be a prisoner here confined, + Till in this matter you’ve made up your mind. + If you consent to be the Pasha’s wife, + Conrad the Corsair saves his forfeit life-- + If not, the hangman treats him to a drop! + + _Medora._ Marry the Pasha, never. + + _Syng._ [_Going._] Good. + + _Medora._ Yet stop-- + Where is the prisoner? + + _Syng._ [_Pointing to door, R._] In yon cell. + + _Medora._ So near me. + He shall decide for me! Ho, Conrad, hear me! + + _Syng._ He can’t. ’Tis vain, so you may save your trouble! + Your voice is treble, but the doors are double. + I’ll leave you to reflect. [_Exit, L._ + + _Medora._ Which can I choose-- + The matrimonial, or the hangman’s noose? + The Pasha’s wife--oh, no; yet, if I falter, + ’Tis I that lead my Conrad to the halter. + A footstep! who comes here? + + _Enter GULNARE, R._ + + _Gul._ Hush! not a word! + The Pasha’s proposition I have heard. + + _Medora._ And you advise me to refuse it flat? + + _Gul._ No, to accept it. + + _Medora._ What! wed a thing like that? + + _Gul._ It is a match most women’s hopes would lean to. + + _Medora._ Indeed! then marry him yourself! + + _Gul._ I mean to. + + _Medora._ Explain! + + _Gul._ Nay, Conrad too, must present be. + + _Medora._ Alas! they’ve locked him in, and ta’en the key. + + _Gul._ But I’ve a duplicate! [_Shows key._ + + See, this will pick it. + [_Goes to door._ + + _Medora._ A duplicate! that is, indeed, the ticket. + [_GULNARE opens door, R. 2 E., CONRAD comes out, ironed._ + + _Conrad._ We meet again, my joy who now can tell? + + _Medora._ [_Looking in._] What a vile dungeon! + + _Conrad._ ’Tis an awful cell. + Thus ironed too! these heavy fetters dangling. + + _Medora._ That loved form ironed! Well, it’s saved from mangling. + + _Conrad._ Sweet, ’twas your love that saved me--nothing but it. + Their swords were at my throat--you bid them cut it. + + _Gul._ But come, time flies-- + + _Conrad._ Hah! true, a just remark. + Explain, too long they’ve kept me in the dark. + [_Points to cell._ + + _Gul._ Kept in the dark--come, there you’re wrong, methinks. + Surely you’d light--those chains have lots of links. + + _Medora._ Conrad, the Pasha offers you your freedom. + + _Conrad._ Hah! on what terms? + + _Gul._ In her confusion read ’em. + Her hand. + + _Conrad._ And she consents? oh, no. + + _Medora._ I don’t. + I’d see him further first, and then I won’t. + + _Conrad._ Brave girl, ’twould be, were I of you bereft, + A still more awful sell than that I’ve left. + + _Gul._ But I’ve a plan. + + _Conrad._ Out with it. + + _Gul._ ’Tis that she + Pretend submission until you are free. + + _Conrad._ Good! + + _Medora._ But suppose he makes me sticks to it? + And marry him. + + _Gul._ Nay, trust to woman’s wit, + I mean to marry him myself--I told you; + As the sole obstacle, I now behold you. + You gone, of all my hopes comes the revival, + With your _departure_, I’ve no more _a rival_. + But some one comes; they must not here perceive me. + Get in. [_Pushing CONRAD in._ + + _Conrad._ [_Struggling._] Get out. + + _Gul._ Go, go. [_Locks door._ + + _Medora._ You won’t deceive me? + + _Gul._ Trust me. [_Exit, R._ + + _Medora._ I will. + + _March._--_Enter PASHA, SYNG SMAUL, GUARDS, &c., L._ + + _Medora._ [_Aside._] And now consent to sham! + + _Pasha._ Well madam, are you quite resolved? + + _Medora._ I am. + + _Pasha._ Pause ere you speak--mind, your refusal crushes + The Corsair’s chance. Your answer! + + _Medora._ [_Modestly._] Spare my blushes. + + _Pasha._ What, you consent? + + _Medora._ Oh, sir! + + _Pasha._ You do! you love me? + + _Medora._ Can I believe that one so high above me + Can honor thus his slave? + + _Pasha._ Oh, joy! ’tis true! + Shout dogs! + + _Syng._ Shout dogs! [_All shout._ + + _Pasha._ Peace, slave! who spoke to you? + For my sake you give up the Corsair? + + _Medora._ Clearly. + It can’t be helped--I’m sorry for him, really, + His fate is harsh, but even were it harsher, + Who would compare a pirate with a Pasha? + I like a wealthy husband--he, poor chap, + Comes with a ring, but comes without a rap. + + _Pasha._ Huzza! Shout, dogs! [_All shout._ + + _Enter GULNARE, ZULIEMA, and LADIES, R._ + + _Gul._ What means this dreadful clatter? + + _Pasha._ [_Aside._] Gulnare, the deuce! There’ll be a scene--no matter. + [_Aloud._] Release the Corsair! + + _SYNG SMAUL opens door, R. 2 E.; CONRAD appears._ + + Quick--his chains unbind! + Conrad, you’re free! + + _Conrad._ You’re really very kind. + + _Pasha._ There, there, be off--for thanks you needn’t tarry. + + _Conrad._ But that young person I’m about to marry-- + She goes with me, of course! + + _Medora._ Nay, Conrad! + + _Conrad._ What? + You, too, desert me! + + _Gul._ [_Aside to him._] Recollect my plot. + + _Medora._ Hear me! + + _Conrad._ Away! you’re false--you can’t deny it! + + _Medora._ [_Aside to him._] I’m but pretending. + + _Conrad._ [_Aside to her._] So am I--be quiet! + Oh, misery! worse than prison, bonds and fetters! + + _Pasha._ Enough, young man--she is to wed your betters. + Ladies, behold your future queen! + + _Zuli._ What, she? + What’s to become of me? + + _Gul._ And me? + + _Conrad._ And me? + + _Pasha._ Can’t say, I’m sure. + + _Zuli._ This fills with grief my cup; + Support me! Oh, woe--woe! [_Faints and is borne off, R._ + + _Conrad._ Gee wo--pull up! + False maid! [_Aside to her._] All right. [_Aloud._] Can + you desert me thus? + + _Pasha._ Of course the girl can’t marry both of us! + + _Medora._ And since my love cannot divided be, + You, Conrad, must give up your _chere amie_ (share o’me.) + + _Conrad._ Enough! I from the unequal contest cease; + My heart is broken, but I’ll _keep the peace_; + And, since yours is the victory, I’ll be calm. + Thus I give up her hand, and yield the palm. + + _Medora._ Say we part friends. + + _Conrad._ We do, though grief oppressing. + [_Weeping and joining their hands._ + + Take her, be happy--take a Corsair’s blessing. + + _Pasha._ Thanks! you are free--you now may cut, and when + You have cut, mind, you needn’t come again. + + _Conrad._ Fear not. + + _Gul._ [_Aside to him._] Return at midnight--you can save her, + And also do me a great wedding favor. + + _Conrad._ Farewell! away my lonely course I take. + You needn’t trouble to send cards or cake. [_Exit, L._ + + _Pasha._ Quick, slaves! make preparation, though ’tis late; + This evening we’ll the nuptials celebrate. + Bright garlands on the walls of every room stick, + And bid the priest prepare the wedding broomstick. + [_Exeunt SYNG SMAUL and GUARDS, L._ + + _Gul._ Come, madam, to your room let me conduct you. + [_Aside._] Then of my plans more fully I’ll instruct you. + + _Medora._ Come, come. [_Exeunt MEDORA and GULNARE, R._ + + _Enter SYNG SMAUL and Guards, L._ + + _Pasha._ How now, slave? + + _Syng._ Sire, the broomstick’s ready, + The priest awaits. + + _Pasha._ Down, throbbing heart--be steady! + Oh, happiness! soon I my wife shall call her. + She comes. + + _Enter GULNARE, veiled, followed by WOMEN, R._ + + Holloa! it strikes me she’s grown taller. + + _Gul._ Sire, can you wonder that I taller stand, + Now you’ve made me the highest in the land? + + _Pasha._ Accept this ring; for ever thus united---- + Shall we proceed? + + _Gul._ Sire, I shall be delighted. + [_Wedding March. Exeunt in procession, L._ + + _Enter MEDORA, R._ + + _Medora._ Saved! Saved! Gulnare will marry, in my stead. + Blessed land, where veils are worn upon the head, + Screening the face, secure from all beholders-- + Instead of bonnets half way down the shoulders! + But for that fashion, all our plans would fail: + Nought can succeed, when its without _avail_. + They come! [_Exit, R._ + + _March repeated. Re-enter PASHA, GULNARE; LADIES dancing before + them, bearing flowers, &c.; SYNG SMAUL, GUARDS, &c., L._ + + _Pasha._ ’Tis done, the marriage rites are ended! + Go, fellows, and prepare a banquet splendid. + Lights, music, wine, provide in our pavilion; + Wine for ten thousand--music for the million. + [_Exeunt SYNG SMAUL and GUARDS, L._ + + _Pasha._ And you, dear, go remove your veil. + + _Gul._ I will! + Come, girls. [_Exeunt GULNARE and LADIES, R._ + + _Pasha._ Now, how the weary time to kill? + She’ll be at least an hour and a quarter. + She comes! + + _Enter MEDORA, R._ + + Holloa! it strikes me she’s grown shorter! + + _Medora._ What! wonder if my head less high is carried? + Folks always _settle down_ when they get married. + + _Pasha._ Come to my arms. + [_MEDORA runs towards him and stops, frightened._ + + You shun them? + + _Medora._ Nay, my fright + Was at your weapons--not your arms. + [_Takes pistols from his belt._ + + That’s right. + Say, are they loaded? + + _Pasha._ Powdered, balled, and capped. + + _Medora._ Good gracious! [_Lays them down at window._--_Aside._ + + Now, I think you’re nicely trapped. + [_She dances playfully round him, he follows + with his hands raised supplicatingly._ + + _Medora._ Oh, what an attitude! stay, keep them so. + [_Takes a scarf from her waist and ties them, he laughing._ + + Beautiful, charming! Hah! he’s there! + [_CONRAD appears at window, L._ + + _Pasha._ Holloa! + Guards! treason! + + _Medora._ [_Catching up pistols._] Peace! another word, you die! + + _Conrad._ Medora! quick! come, by this window fly! + Say, can you squeeze these narrow bars between? + + _Medora._ I can. + + _Conrad._ Oh, joy! she wears no crinoline. + [_MEDORA gets through window._ + + _Pasha._ One word, one question! + + _Medora._ Well? + + _Pasha._ That pistol, drop it. + + _Medora._ Is that the question? peace, then, or I’ll pop it. + [_They disappear._--_The PASHA goes to the + window._--_A pistol is discharged without._ + + _Pasha._ Gone!--treason!--murder!--help! My guards, what ho! + + _GUARDS rush in, L. 1 E., GULNARE and LADIES, R._ + + _Gul._ What means this cry? + + _Pasha._ My bride has fled. + + _Gul._ Not so; + Here stands your bride. + + _Pasha._ ’Tis false! + + _Gul._ This ring behold! + Ladies, salute your queen. + + _Pasha._ Done! swindled! sold! + + [_Falls into the arms of SYNG SMAUL._--_LADIES kneel to_ + GULNARE. _Tableau_--_closed in._ + + + + + SCENE VII.--_A Wood._ + + + _SERENA and SUBMARINA rise through traps, R. and L._ + + _Sub._ Good night, Serena, how d’ye do? + + _Serena._ Why who + On earth would ever dream of seeing you? + + _Sub._ Why not? + + _Serena._ I mean the sea’s your proper berth. + So ask who’d dream of seeing you on earth? + + _Sub._ I’ve come to seek you. + + _Serena._ What for, may I ask? + + _Sub._ To know how you’re progressing with your task. + Have you cured Conrad yet? + + _Serena._ Well, very nearly. + + _Sub._ Your month expires to-morrow. + + _Serena._ Does it, really? + To-night then must decide--but see--he’s here! + Let us retire. + + _Music._--_Enter CONRAD, supporting MEDORA, L._ + + _Conrad._ Come, come, Medora dear; + Rest here, I’ll call for help. + + _Medora._ ’Twould be no good, + To holloa, till we’re quite out of the wood. + + _Conrad._ Could I but find the path, we’d soon get home; + The way to Greece, should be our way to _roam_. + Had I a compass, we’d know how to steer. + + _Medora._ Without the needle, we’re sewed up, that’s clear; + But still, I always thought you roving tars, + To find your way, oft had to thank your stars. + + _Conrad._ In this thick wood, my science is at fault, + I cannot see them! Come, let’s on, though. + + _Enter BIRBANTO, with CORSAIRS, R._ + + _Birb._ Halt! + So, then, we’ve met; at last my turn arrives. + + _Medora._ [_Kneeling._] Mercy! Take all we have, but spare our lives. + + _Conrad._ Medora, rise! Speak, friends--why this hostility? + + _Birb._ You are accused---- + + _Medora._ Of what? + + _Birb._ Respectability! + + _Conrad._ You’ve heard of it, then? + + _Birb._ Yes, and they have picked out + Another leader, _vice_ Conrad, kicked out. + + _Conrad._ And may I ask, who my late post now fills? + + _Birb._ His name’s Birbanto, on the Grampian Hills---- + + _Conrad._ Indeed! I wish you joy.--Come. [_Taking MEDORA’S arm_ + + _Birb._ Not so fast! + Secure them. + + _Conrad._ How? + + _Medora._ Help! help! + + _Enter SYNG SMAUL and GUARDS, L._ + + _Syng._ So caught at last. + Yield, all of you. + + _Birb._ Come, my lads, ho! strike for freedom! + You won’t? + + _Conrad._ [_Laughing._] Not they, they’ve not got me to lead ’em. + + _1st Cors._ Resume your post, and save us, we implore. + + _2d Cors._ Do, sir; we’ll never disobey you more. + + _Birb._ Cowards! + + _Conrad._ Resume my post--’tis a temptation. + + _Medora._ Oh, no! think of your vows of reformation, + For my sake! + + _SERENA appears, watching him with anxiety._ + + _Conrad._ True! I’ll keep them, love, with pleasure, + Sirs, my reform must be a final measure. + + _Serena._ He’s saved! + + _Syng._ No more discussion. March--yet stay-- + What’s that? Another prisoner comes this way + + _Enter YUSSUF chained_--_two GUARDS following, L._ + + _Yussuf._ [_Sings._] + Why did Medora sell me? + Through her these woes befel me. + Why did Medora sell me, + And bolt on her wedding day? + + _Medora._ My uncle, and in chains! + + _Yussuf._ False critter, see + These fixins. You ’twas forged these bonds for me. + + _Medora._ I am no forger, sir. + + _Conrad._ Cease this debate-- + We’ve heard too much of _forging bonds_ of late. + + _Syng._ Now, guards, conduct your prisoners to their gaol. + + _Serena._ [_Advances._] Hold! for this couple, sir, I put in bail. + + _Conrad._ Halloa! my friend, the fairy. + + _Serena._ Yes, the friend + Of all who, like you, strive their ways to mend. + You’ve kept your word--with freedom I requite you. + And to the Peri’s home to sup, invite you. + + _Medora._ Oh, joy. [_CONRAD and MEDORA embrace._ + + _Serena._ The rest must undergo their sentence. + + _Birb._ Hold on! I see there’s nothing like repentance-- + So I’ll turn steady, too. + + _Serena._ You settle down? + + _Birb._ I’ll start a public company in town; + Turn a strict man of business--try stock-jobbery + On the Exchange! My cry--exchange no robbery. + + + _Song and Chorus._--_AIR, “One Bumper at Parting._” + + _Birb._ A company starting, though many + Have tried it and found it no go; + I’ll endeavor at turning a penny, + We won’t say if honest, or no. + + _Yussuf._ Guess I’m mortal sick of slave driving, + Respectable dodges pay best; + So if this here company’s thriving. + I’m there like a shot, with the rest. + + _Conrad._ A real model husband I mean to be; + All my used-up-ishness past, + I forswear, since the world I have seen to be + Not quite so worthless at last, + One favor I’d ask, do not spurn it, your + Aid, I’m quite strange to it yet-- + Do you know a good place to buy furniture. + Or a snug cottage to let? + + _Enter PASHA and GULNARE, R._ + + _Pasha._ Here, stop, I intend, by the wig o’ me, + In this improvement to share, + Henceforward renouncing polygamy, + Stick to my own dear Gulnare. + + _Gul._ New hopes in my breast do you kindle; + I’ll make you the happiest of men; + Having gained all I wished by one swindle, + I’ll never deceive you again. + + _Serena._ Kind friends, in this great reform movement, + No share for yourselves will you find, + In your case there’s no room for improvement; + But be--as you ever were--kind. + And now for the home of the Peri-- + Bright scenes, where we’re bidden to sup; + But, remember, the brightest look dreary, + Unless by your smiles lighted up. + [_Repeat last verse in chorus._ + + _The scene opens and discovers_ + + + + + SCENE VIII.--_The Home of the Peri and Golden Gates of the Gardens of + Perennial Spring._ + + + _SUBMARINA appears, and the usual transformation of the characters + takes place--Two Clowns, Harlequin, Pantaloon, three whalebone + sprites, and two Columbines._ + + + + +------------------------------------------------------------------------ + + + + + The Largest, Cheapest, and Best Magazine in the World! + + THE + New York Journal + OF + ROMANCE, LITERATURE AND ART. + + + BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED. + + +Having purchased the well known NEW YORK JOURNAL, the present +proprietor will CONTINUE IT PERMANENTLY, and will hereafter issue it +with such a liberal regard to its improvement in every branch of +LITERATURE and ILLUSTRATION, as shall make it unsurpassed, in point of +ATTRACTIVENESS and REAL VALUE, by any other Journal or Magazine. The +NEW YORK JOURNAL WILL APPEAR PUNCTUALLY! + +In size, a large quarto, each number will contain sixty-four pages, +three columns wide. Its contents will embrace subjects selected and +arranged so as to give, in the most agreeable manner, authentic +INFORMATION and AMUSEMENT to every one. + +The Journal will have ONE NEW and INTERESTING NOVEL, continued from +number to number, alone worth the price of subscription; besides +numerous TALES, ROMANCES, STORIES and POETRY. + +In the DRAMA, the proprietor presents a most agreeable feature, which +does not exist in any other Journal, viz.: that of publishing in its +columns an ENTIRE ACTING PLAY. The plays will be carefully and +judiciously selected, offering what may be made use of, with a little +tact in adaptation, as a very Pleasing and Instructive PARLOR +ENTERTAINMENT. + +Improvements in AGRICULTURE, GARDENING, the Rearing of Domestic +Poultry, etc., will be drawn from all reliable sources. + +This Journal will aim at instructive “HINTS for HOME LIFE,” addressed +to the Ladies, on Health and Diet, Household Affairs, a Mother’s Cares, +Personal Accomplishments, etc. PATTERNS for useful NEEDLEWORK, and +HINTS on the ART of DRESS will be accompanied by a description of a +choice of the FASHIONS, with illustrations. + +SPORTS of the SEASON, illustrated, suited to Children and Young People, +in doors and out of doors; and such matters as have a happy influence +on their health and intelligence. + +Comicalities, Humorous Sayings, Anecdotes, and “Good Things,” will +lighten the more solid matter. + +TERMS:--Published Monthly, Price, 18¾ cts. each number; $1 per volume, +or $2 per year. PRICE TO CLUBS, four copies, $7; six copies, $10; 10 +copies, $16, invariably in advance. + + S. FRENCH, PUBLISHER, 122 Nassau St., + + ⁂ For sale at periodical depots, everywhere. (Up Stairs.) + +------------------------------------------------------------------------ + + + + + Transcriber’s Notes + + +This file uses _underscores_ to indicate italic text. New original +cover art included with this eBook is granted to the public domain. +Itemized changes from the original text: + + • title page: Added comma after “Phenomenon in a Smock-frock.” + • Cast of Characters: Expanded ditto marks from original for clarity. + • Cast of Characters: Changed “wtaer” to “water” in description of + Conrad. + • Cast of Characters: Changed “Pead Cock” to “Head Cook” in + description of Syng Smaul. + • Cast of Characters: Changed comma to period after “Mr. Holmes” in + entry for Syng Smaul. + • Cast of Characters: Changed comma to period after “Mrs. Cook” in + entry for Zuliema. + • Cast of Characters: Added comma after “Guards.” + • p. 4: Replaced “Iv’e” with “I’ve” in line “Smokers, I’ve heard, have + put their pipes out.” + • p. 5: Replaced “Serana” with “Serena” in stage direction “Serena is + seen darting up towards the earth as the scene closes.” + • p. 6: Replaced “its” with “it’s” in line “If so, just give your + orders and it’s done.” + • p. 7: Replaced “Yussuff” with “Yussuf” before line “Now then, you + tarnal critters” and in preceding stage direction. + • p. 7: Supplied missing period after character name “Pasha” before + line “Slave, who bid you interfere?” + • p. 8: Supplied missing period after character name “Medora” before + line “With pleasure, if it pleases you, I will.” + • p. 8: Replaced period with comma in line “So good, so true.” + • p. 8: Supplied missing question mark after line “What strange + presentiment of woe comes o’er me?” + • p. 9: Supplied leading space before line “Guards, hew him limb from + limb!” + • p. 9: Replaced “Yessuf” with “Yussuf” in character name before line + “Go at him--all at once.” + • p. 10: Supplied missing opening bracket before stage direction + “Exit, R., followed by the Girls.” + • p. 10: removed hyphen from “fly-too” in line “Nay, fly not yet, or + else let me fly too.” + • p. 11: Added small caps to “Medora” in stage direction “Throws scarf + over MEDORA’S head.” + • p. 11: Supplied leading space before line “Hush! don’t speak.” + • p. 13: Supplied leading space before line “Help! Conrad!” and expand + leading space in following line. + • p. 14: Moved stage direction “Throws money amongst them” from before + to after first line of speech. + • p. 15: Replaced comma with period after phrase “Aye, and pay rates + and taxes like a Briton.” + • p. 15: Supplied missing opening bracket before stage direction + “Serena sinks, R. C.” + • p. 16: Replaced “spectales” with “spectacles” in line “With + spectacles you might--you won’t without!” + • p. 18: Supplied missing opening bracket before stage direction “Runs + out, L.” + • p. 19: Replaced “Birbbanto” with “Birbanto” in stage direction + “Enter Birbanto, L.” + • p. 19: Replaced “qustion” with “question” in line “Well, if you ask + the question then--I have.” + • p. 19: Replaced “villian” with “villain” in line “Die, villain!” + • p. 20: Supplied leading space before line “And she consents? oh, + no.” + • p. 20: Supplied missing period after line “I don’t.” + • p. 21: Supplied leading space before lines “I will” and “And now + consent to sham!” + • p. 22: Supplied missing opening bracket before stage direction + “Weeping and joining their hands.” + • p. 22: Supplied missing period after stage direction “[Aside to + her.]” + • p. 23: Supplied leading space before line “’Tis done, the marriage + rites are ended!” + • p. 23: Removed exclamation point after line “Nay, my fright.” + • p. 23: Removed duplicate character identification before line “Say, + are they loaded?” + • p. 26: Supplied leading space before line “True! I’ll keep them, + love, with pleasure.” + • p. 27: Replaced period with comma in line “Kind friends, in this + great reform movement.” + • advertisement: Replaced “proprietod” with “proprietor” in line “the + proprietor presents a most agreeable feature.” + + + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 76960 *** |