\ \D \Lf "^ "^ BETWEEN TWO FIRES A COMEDY-DRAMA IN THREE ACTS THOMAS K. SERRANO PRICH 15 CENTS NEW YORK HAROLD ROORBACH, PUBLISHER 9 Murray Street THE AOTIHG DRAMA. I Single Life. a Boarding School. 3 The Spitfire. 4 Irish Dragoon. <: S'^hool eQ-Roon). 65 Perfection(theCor)- Leg) ; 66 More BlundersThan One 67 Whisky Fiend. 68 (^uiteatHomc. ^ 69 Sir Dagobert and tiie 70 Putting on Airs. [Dragon 71 A Slight Mistake. 72 Patches and Powder. 73 To Let, Furnished. 74 The Lost Heir. 75 Is the Man Mad? 76 A Trip to Cambridge. 77 Twenty and Forty. 78 Hob-Nobbing. 79 The Great Eastern. 80 Three Guesses. 81 Getting up in the World 82 Wardrobe. 83 84 A Crumpled Rose Leaf. 85 Wild Flowers. [Ladies. 86 Don't all Speak at Once, 87 Woman NatureWill Out. 88 Funnibone's Fix. 89 Child of Circumstances, go Women's Club, 91 Shamrock. 92 The Changelings. 93 94 Matrimony, 95 Refinement. 96 Master-piece. 97 Frenchman, 98 Punch and Judy. 99 jMy Precious Betsy, 100 Woman of the World, loi Rob the Hermit. 102 Love Master, Love ISIan. 103 Inhuman. 104 Champagne. 105 H M. S. Pinafore. 106 Family Pictures. 107 Prison and Palace. 108 The Bailiff's Daughter. 109 La Cigale. no Broken Promises. 111 The Broken Seal. 112 Betsy's Profile. 113 Going Through Him. 114 Male and Female. '115 Thoughts Before Mar- 116 Diplomacy. [riage. 117 Our Professor. 118 Hurrah for Paris. 119 Tittlebat a Father. 120 Cross Purposes. 121 Love to Music. 122 Carried by Assault, 123 The Locked Door. 124 Those "Cussed" Waves. 125 Masquerading for Two. 126 The Love Flower. 127 Oh, My Uncle ! 128 The Dawn of Love. 129 Juliet's Love Letter. 130 Bric-a-Brac. 131 A Cousin to Them All. Any of the above will be sent by mail on receipt 32 The Wanderer's Return. 33 Uncle Jack, 34 The Married Widows. 35 Foresight: or, MyDaugh- ter's Dowry, 36 Muolo the Monkey. n Too A\'indy for an Um- brella, 38 Beauty and the Beast. 39 Cinderella. 40 Rosebud ; or, the Sleep- ing Beauty. 41 The Princess, 42 Rumplestiltskin. 43 Skinflint, 44 One Must Marry. 45 John Smith, 46 Just Twenty Years Ago. 47 Pipes and Perdition, 48 Under the Curse. 49 Two Drams of Brandy. 50 Don't Marry a Drunkard to Reform Him. 51 Ralph Coleman's Refor- mation, 52 Who Got the Pig ? 53 Money Makes the Man. 54 Bardell vs. Pickwick. 56 A Pint of Ale. 58 Engaged. 59 My Awful Dad. 60 Out i.i the Streets. 61 The Law Allows It. 62 There's Millions in It. 63 Tootle Tootle Too. 64 A Purty Shure Cure. 65 Let those Laugh who Win. 66 A dark Noight's Business 67 A Game of Billiards. 68 i he Village Belle. 69 Cousin Florence. 70 I Love Your Wife. 71 TheDutchmanin Ireland 72 A Woman Will Be a Woman. 73 Lucy's Love Lesson. 74 Our Utopia (The .Es- thetic Cousin). [Stars. 75 The Daughter of the 76 The Stolen Child. 77 Well Fixed for a Rainy Day. 78 Cross Purposes (A Mis- understanding in I act) 79 The Artist's Stratagem. 80 Picking up the Pieces. 81 Lovely. 82 Irresistibly Impudent, 83 Love's Young Dream. 84 WooingunderDifficulties 85 Rebecca and Rowena. 86 The Shakespeare Water 87 Marion Fay. [Cure. 88 At Sixes and Sevens. Change Partners. of the price ^ by P. O, Box 3410. HAROLD ROORBACK, Publisher, Successor to Boorbach & Company. Murray Street, New York. BETWEEN TWO FIRES A COMEDY DRAMA IN THREE ACTS BY THOMAS K SERRANO o,,TVTPT> VROM THE AUTHOR'S MANUSCRIPT WITH THE CAST OF THE CHAR- ^ ^rrvSsiZpSlSOF INCIDENTS TIME OF REPRESENTATION COSTUMES JcInE AND PROPERTY PLOTS DIAGRAMS OF THE STAGE SET- ?rNGS SIDES OF ENTRANCE AND EXIT RELATIVE POSI- TIONS OF THE PERFORMEKS EXPLANATION OF THE STAGE DIRECTIONS TABLEAUX ETC AND ALL OF THE STAGE BUSINESS Copyright, 1888, by Harold Roorback NEW YORK HAROLD ROORBACH, Publisher 9 MURRAY STREET ■J- i A/ BETWEEN TA\ O FIRES. CAST OF CHARACTERS. Colonel Lundy, - - A man with an eventful history. Jebome Eddy, - A gentleman of means, residing at Fort Lee, -p f His adopted son, a youth who stands KOBEET, ... I "Between two Fires." Patkick Greenville, / Lawyers by profession and adventurers by Fean^ois Bulla y, \ nature. Jose Massint, - . - - - - An adventurer. An Irishman who does not think he de- PEIVATE O'KOUEKE, ^ ^^^^^^^ ^^^^^ ^^^ ^.^^^^ ^^ j^^j^^^ Feitz, _ _ - _ Whose prudence equals his jjallantry. Louisa De Moei, - A Creole lady sojourning at the north. Rowena, -------- Her daughter. Mrs. Juliet Geeenville, A non-believer in judicial separation. Officees, Soldiees, Etc Note. — The characters of Eddy and Massini can be doubled without inconvenience. Time of Repeesentation — Two Houes and a Half. SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS. Act I. At Fort Lee, on the Hudson. News from the war. The meeting. The colonel's strange romance. Departing for the war. The intrusted packet. An honest man. A last request. Bitter hatred. The dawn of love. A Northerner's sympathy for the South. Is he a traitor ? Held in trust. La Creole gold mine for sale. Financial agents. A brother's wrong. An order to cress the enemy's lines. Fortune's fool. Love's penalty. Man's independ- ence. Strange disclosures. Discarded. A shadowed life. Beggared in pocket and bankrupt in love. His last chance. The refusal. Turned from home. Alone, without a name. Off to the war. Act II. On the battlefield. An Irishman's philosophy. Uncon- scious of danger. Spies in the camp. The insult. Risen from the ranks. The colonel's prejudice. Letters from home. The plot to ruin. A token of love. True to him. The plotters at work. Break- ing the seals. The meeting of husband and wifp. A forlorn hope. Doomed as a spy. A struggle for lost honor. A soldier's death. Act III. Before Richmond. The home of Mrs. De Mori. The two documents. A little misunderstanding. A deserted wife. The n-z<^i)Y BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 3 truth revealed. Brought to light. Mother and child. Rowena's sacrifice. The American Eagle spreads his wings. The spider's web. True to himself. The reconciliation. A long divided home reunited. The close of the war. COSTUMES. LuNDY. Act I: Dark frock coat, buttoned up close: lio-ht trow- sers; gloves; silk hat; cane. Acts II and III: Uniform of a colonel, U. S. A. Eddy. Dark trowsers and vest ; dressing-gown and slippers. Egbert. Act I: Dark cutaway coat, with waistcoat ; light trow- sers; derby hat; patent leather shoes. Act II : Unilorm of a ser- geant, U. S. A. Act III: Officer's uniform, U. S. A. Greenville and Bullay. Business suits; derby hats. BuUay has a seal attached to his watch chain. Massini. Confederate private's uniform. O'KoiiRKE. Uniform of a private, U. S. A. Fritz. Acts I and III: Black swallow-tail coat; black low-cut vest; black trowsers; highly starched shirt-front, turn-down collar and white necktie. Act II: Uniform of a private, U. S. A. Louisa. ) ^^^ ^' Handsome street toilets. Act II: Traveling J- costumes. Act HI: Plain black house dresses, RoWENA. J with very little jewelry. Mrs. Greenville. Handsome traveling dress, bonnet, gloves and parasol. STAGE SETTINGS. Act I. i€ Mi/ln BETWEEN TWO FIRES, Act II. lITood Backim 'So Act III. 7? A / able S Chair J I Mantle & FiiePlace- \ Otto III a It SCENE PLOT. Act I. Fancy chamber boxed in third grooves. Alcove window C, backed with marine landscape in fifth grooves. Arches or doors R. and L. of window, backed with garden backings in fourth grooves. Arch or door R. IT. E. , backed with conservatory drop. Arch or door L. U. E., backed with interior drop. Act II. Dilapidated or plain interior, boxed in fourth grooves, backed with a landscape in fifth grooves. Double doors C. Fire- place, with fire, R. Note: If preferred, the scene may be set thus : an open wood running back to the fourth grooves, backed with a transparent drop representing trenches in the distance. Profile wood wings R. and L. Tent L. Camp-fire and tripod R. Act III. Fancy chamber boxed in third grooves, backed with a garden backing in fourth groves. Door C, with steps leading do\^n to it. Doors R. 3 E. and L. 3 E., backed with interior drops. Fiie- place and mantel down R. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 5 PROPERTIES. Act I. Handsome suit of furniture. Carpet and medallion down. Pedestals supporting statuettes, K. and L. of doors in fiat. Desk, or secretary, with writing materials, down L. Easels and pictures R. and L. of window. Plants in the conservatory, R. Newspapers f<'r Fritz. Coin money for Mrs. Greenville. Bank-notes for Green- ville, also a cigar in case. Blank will and cigarettes for Bulla Y. Packet of letters for Lundy. Cut flowers for RoWENA. Drum and fife outside. Act II. Table and chair down L. Flask, packet of letters, and documents for Bullay. Flask, pipe, packet of letters, musket and documents forO'RouRKE. Muskets and accoutrements for Soldiers. Bugle, drum and fife. Red fire, for fire. Bass drum to imitate the noise of cannon. Cigars and cigarettes for Greenville and BuLLAY. Tobacco and pipe for Robert. Two packets for Officer. Despatch for Orderly. Field glass and writing materials on table down L. Act III. Handsome suit of furniture. Carpet matting, with medallion down. Ottoman C. Oblong mirror and bric-a-brac on mantel. Table, with books and ornaments on it, and two chairs R. C. Easy chair L. C. Sofa down L. Desk or secretary up L, C. Easel, bearing a picture, up R. C. Packet of letters for Bullay. Sealed Packet and envelope for O'Rourke. Letter for Massini. Documents for Greenville and Mrs. De Mori. STAGE DIRECTIONS. The player is supposed to be facing the audience. R. means right ; L., left; C., centre ; R. C, right of centre ; L. C, left of centre ; D. F., door in the flat or scene running across the back of the stage; R. F., right side of the flat; L. F., left side of the flat; R. D., right door; L. D., left door; 1 E., first entrance; 2 E., second entrance; tJ. E., upper entrance; 1,2 or 3 G., first, second or third grooves; up stage — toward the back ; down stage — toward the footlights. E. R. C. C. L. C. L. BETWEEN TWO FIEES. ACT I. Scene. — Drawing-room in Jerome Eddy's house at Fort-Lee. Time, tnorning. At the rise of the curtaift, — Jerome Eddy is discovered in dressi^ig gown and slippers, writing a letter at desk L. H. Enter Fritz r. u. e., with newspapers ; he crosses L. to Eddy. Fritz. [Approaching Eddy.) I hopes dot I don't intrude mit you, Sir ; but dere newspapers vas come. Eddy. [Addressing envelope.) Very well, Fritz; just place them here on the desk. (Fritz places papers on desk and at- tempts to go off L. u. E.) Stay! [Sealittg letter.) You'll take this letter to Colonel Lundy ; you will find him at his rooms. Wait for an answer. [Gives letter to Fritz.) Fritz. Yaah, mister Eddy; I vill vate for un answer. [Aside.) Shust der man I vish to speak mit. I tinks ich better by the var den here. Dere vork is less, dere vages more. Exit Fritz, r. c, at back. Eddy. {Opening newspaper.) I wonder what's the latest news of the war. [After looking intently at paper.) Ah! what's this? " The defeat experienced by the northern forces yesterday, makes it necessary to send re-enforcements immediately. Ten thousand more men needed to fill the vacancy made by the re- moval of the reserve troops." If affairs continue thus, I fear another slaughter like that at Bull Run will occur. Many have left their homes and famihes, never to return. War! war! thou art a curse to civiHzation. Enter CoL. Lundy, r. c, at hack. [Rising.) Ah, good morning, Colonel. [They shake hands, then advance down stage.) Lundy. [Advancing dowji c.) The salutation is mutual. (5//- ting 071 ottaman, c.) Apropos ; while on my way thither, I en- countered Fritz, your servant, and received your letter, though I 6 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 7 confess I haven't yet opened it. [Shows letter.) What's the news ? Eddy. [Resuming seat previously occupied.) I would rather you answer that question. Tell me, Colonel, is it true you have been ordered to prepare for active service ? Lundy. Yes ; I start to-day — in fact within an hour. It was to inform you of this, I hastened here. Eddy. And it was to know what truth was in the rumor, I sent you that letter. You must indeed feel very proud over your com- mission. Of course, it is the ambition of every soldier to win a high place, if possible, in the service. Lundy. True ; and at the head of such a brave and gallant regi- ment as I am about to command, there is no reason why I should not rise a grade or two higher. A better drilled or a more orderly set of men I have never seen in all my experience. Ha ! ha ! ha ! This going to fight these rebels gives me much pleasure. I have more than a country's bitterness at heart, especially for that class known as Creoles — the miserable wretches ! Before I say good-bye, I wish you take charge of this packet [Producing packet from coat pocket) ; and if I fall, I want you to break the seal, read the contents, and act according to the inclosed directions. Eddy. Why not trust its keeping to your lawyer ? Lundy. I have no use for a lawyer. Lawyers and Creoles I hate. Eddy. Your hatred for the south, especially the Creoles seems to be very intense. Lundy. It is, and no one who knew the cause would blame me. You have ever been a good and generous friend, and if you don't mind, I will tell you — though perhaps you don't care to know. Eddy. But I do ; perhaps I may be able to advise you. Lundy. Thanks. You must know then, that after I was gradu- ated at West Point, I went south to settle up an estate left me by a distant relative. I was not long in Nashville, before I received an entree into the best circles of society, and, if I may so express myself, I was considered a quite good looking fellow. Eddy. And of course much admired by the fair sex. Lundy. Among my acquaintances was a certain government official, of high political standing, with whose sister I fell in love and who returned my affection. Eddy. You were fortunate. 8 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Lundy. Was I ? You may not think so when I have finished my narrative. We were both aware that her brother, my pohtical acquaintance, would refuse his consent to our union. Eddy. And naturally enough, you did without it. Lundy. Yes. The marriage was secretly solemnized and we left Nashville. Here, I must tell you, the family were of French and Mexican extraction, and, in common with the nature of all Creoles, possessed a revengeful and vindictive spirit. When we made our flight, we journeyed to Mexico, where I had obtained a position in the government engineer corps. For six months I was in Paradise, only to awaken one morning to find myself in the other place. The brother had discovered our whereabouts, and, with proofs strong as Holy Writ, denounced me to the Mexican authorities, as a spy in the pay of France, sent there to ascertain their military strength. I was tried, convicted, and condemned for life. Eddy. You? an American? Lundy. Yes. The evidence produced was of so strong a nature, that had I been a spectator at the trial, I surely would have be- lieved the accused guilty. I will not attempt to describe to you my sufferings ; but let it suffice when I tell you, had it not been that Heaven gave me a strong and robust constitution, I should not be here now to tell my story. I would long since have forgot- ten the terrible tortures I endured, and even forgiven the brother, but for the bitter knowledge that the wife I so dearly loved, the wife for whom I would have died a thousand times, was the arch- conspirator in the plot. Eddy. Your wife ? Surely you are mistaken! Lundy. Not at all ; a letter in that packet confirms the accusa- tion beyond a doubt. Tired of her lover, regretting her marriage, as it was a barrier to her ambition, she informed her brother of her whereabouts, and accused me of having abducted her. The brother, being wrought to that state of anger where revenge be- comes master of the soul, consummated his scheme — and my im- prisonment followed. Eddy. How did you obtain your freedom ? Lundy. In company with two others, I made my escape, through the aid of a deputy jailor. My two companions died on the way across the plains, just when we were in sight of the Ameri- BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 9 can border ; I alone crossed the Rio Grande. After some more rough travelling, I at length reached Washington. Eddy. Where, of course, you obtained redress ? Lundy. Where, of course, I obtained nothing of the sort. I tried hard, but in vain, for then, as now, pohtical influence is the axis on which the wheels of justice revolve in the different depart- ments of the Government. I at last became weary of waiting for the Secretary to take action in the affair, and allowed my griev- ances to sink into oblivion. I have always been under the impres- sion that friend* of the brother— certain Southern congressmen — had much to do in the retardment of an investigation into my case. Now can you wonder at my desire to enter upon the battle- field and charge into the midst of these Southern hounds, especi- ally the Creoles, and deal them out defeat and death ? Ah, the very thought of what's to come fires every energy of heart and soul, and makes me feel young again ! {Laughter heard outside R. u. E. Y.TiV>Y goes up c. and looks off r.) Who's that? Eddy. Only my son and some lady friends of his; they are com- ing this way. Lundy. Ladies are undesirable creatures with me. I'm off — I'm what may be termed a woman hater. Eddy. {Coming down c.) Not so bad as that, I hope. All women, you know, are not alike — but come, I see you're growing distressed. We will go into the library and have a parting glass of wine together. There we shall be free from all intrusion. Come. {Going towards \.. u. e.) Lundy. ( Following Eddy. ) Who are the ladies ? Eddy. Ah, I see you have a weak spot still for the fair sex. They are — ahem— a Creole lady and her daughter. Lundy. A Creole ! Confound it ! it's bad enough to be a wo- man, but a cross between a cat and a tigress — well — da Eddy. {Placing hand before 1x\kt>y's, mouth.) Tut — tut — she will meet your wish, if she is not blessed [Points upwards.) You had better let me introduce you. Lundy. Never, sir ! never ! How is it you have not encour- aged Robert to enlist in behalf of his country's cause ? Eddy. I have ; but I'm sorry to confess his sympathies are with the South. Lundy. What ! with the South ? And you— you shelter such lo BETWEEN TWO FIRES. a son ! Why the fellow should be quartered at Fort Lafayette, not here. Eddy. Why I am not severe on the lad, is because of my old age. You know a man of my age desires a companion ; and what better companion could he have than his own son ? Lundy. True ; and on that account I can be lenient with him. By the bye, how are he and Miss Trehayne getting on ? I don't see them out riding so frequently of late. Eddy. The fact is, Colonel, he has transferred his affections to this Creole girl who, although the daughter of a Southern aristo- crat, is no suitable helpmate through life for him. This I have told him, and, would you believe me, he has actually refused to recognise my right in the matter. Lundy. Well, then, your only alternative is to have him en- listed. The army is the best school for disciphne, especially for youngsters like him. Why, when I stop to think of his treatment of Miss Trehayne, it seems damnably shocking — let us retire or I shall loose my temper. Exeunt Eddy and Lundy, l. u. e. Enter Robert with Mrs. De Mori and Rowena, laughing, R. u. E. Mrs. De M. (l.) And you pretend you are a coward ? Rob, (c.) I confess it — I have not the courage to engage in this war against the South. Mrs. De M. How strange, a Northerner like you should be in sympathy with your foe — for are we not foes, since we no longer recognise your authority? Rob. I would much prefer, with your permission, to leave the right to discuss that point with the statesmen who urged on the war. (Mrs. De Mori smiles and goes up stage, c.) Row. Do you know, Robert, you unjustly accuse yourself when you say you are a coward? Rob. How do you know ? Row. Because no woman could love a coward. Rob. V>o you love me ? Row. No, no, but if you are a coward — why, yesterday when we were out boating, and the strong tide nearly capsized our boat, you acted with a coolness, courage, and presence of mind that saved our lives. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. :il Rob. That wasn't courage — it was the fear of an accident. I am too fond of hving to lose my hfe. Row. Yes, but when my horse took fright, and was galloping at a wild speed, you, at the risk of being trampled to death, seized and stayed him ; you did not seem to prize your life much then. Rob. Because my life without yours would be valueless. I am fond of life, because I am young — have health and hope ; I love the broad and open sea, the green fields, the waving trees, the broad expanse of sky and breezy air. The world with me is filled with hfe and beauty, but without you its light and sunshine would be gone. Mrs. De M. [Advancing down C. ) Ahem ! where is your father, Mr. Eddy ? Rob. Do you wish to see him? [To Rowena.) Will you give to me, the rosebud in your hair. Row. It is yours. [Gives it.) You will not give it away ? Rob. No. [To Mrs. De Mori.) I will find my father on the instant. [Staris to go, but is detained by Rowena. ) Row. Nor exchange it ? Rob. Only for one thing on earth more precious. Row. And what is that ? Rob. Yourself. Bows and Exit L. U, e. Mrs. De M. [Going to Rowena. Rowena! that young man loves you. Row. ( Coqtiettishly. ) Does he ? Mrs. De M. You know he does. Row. I know something more. Mrs. De M. And what is that ? Row. I love him. Mrs. De M. Rowena, be advised in time — such an attachment cannot but lead to disappointment and unhappiness. Row. How so ? Mrs. De M. Mr. Eddy informs me that he is to marry a Miss Bertha Trehayne of New York. The lady, in her own right, is said to be worth a hundred thousand dollars. Rov/. And Robert informs me he would not wed her if she had ten times a hundred thousand dollars. Mrs. De M. Rowena ! have you ever had to doubt my desire for your welfare — my love for you ? 13 BETWEEN TWO FIRES Row. Never! never! Mrs. De M. Then, for reasons vi^hich you some day may learn, crush any growing attachment for Robert Eddy ere it be too late. Row. I am afraid it is now too late. Enter Eddy l. u. e. , accojnpanied by Robert. Eddy. {^Shaking hands.') Delighted to see you— this is indeed a pleasure. Ah ! by the bye, there was some talk at Mrs. Berry's the other evening, of your going away ; is it true ? Mrs. De M. Yes ; we leave for the South in a few days. Eddy. I regret to hear you say so. But how are you going to cross the lines just now ? Had you not better stay here awhile longer ? A settlement of affairs between North and South may be consummated in a short time, and then travel will be more easy. Mrs. De M. I fear there would be a greater danger were we to remain here {Looking towards Rowena and Rob, who are up stage c, in earnest conversation^', besides, I have received an order signed by the President, granting us the required permission. Eddy. {Aside, going L.) I quite readily understand the motive of her sudden departure. No better favor could she afford me than this. Rob. {Aside to Rowena.) I must pack up my traps. Row. You — for what ? Rob. To go South. Row. {Amazed.^ South! wherefore! Rob. Because you are going. Enter Fritz, l. C, at back. Fritz. {Going to Mrs. De Mori.) Dere vas two shentlemens dot vas vant to speak mit you, Mrs. De Mori. Von vas foreign, because he speak French, and der odervas not, he speak Irish. Mrs. De M. {Surprised.) Who can they be, I wonder ? Fritz. Day vas very sorry dey sait, to follow you here, but dey vas particular to speak important business mit you. Eddy. You will see them here, Mrs. De Mori. ( 27? Fritz.) Admit them. Fritz. {Going.) Shust so, admit them. Exit Fritz, l. c. at back. ; Eddy. ( To Robert and Rowena. ) Will you come into the con- BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 13 servatory ? (^Pointing r. h. of stage. ^ I have received a fresh sup- ply of plants this morning, and would like your opinion very much in relation to them. Shall we go ? Row. With pleasure. Eddy. This way then — {Going off, R. u. E.) Rob. {Hiking Rowena's arm.) This way suits me best. Exit, wiik ROWENA, L. u. E. Mrs. De M, [Going fo ottoman c, in thought) I wonder who these interviewers are [Sitting) that follow me here, and what their business is ? Enter Greenville and Bullay, l. c, at back ; they bow to RowENA as she goes off. Bull, (l.) Greenville, vare fine girl. Green, (c.) Hang the girl ! Bull. Hang ze girl — hang yourself. Green. Devil a bit will I hang myself. Bull. And I shall not hang ze girl. Green. Very well then. Bull. Vare well then — Greenville, are we not friends — vat you call Green. Partners. Yes. ( They shake hands and come down c.) Bull. (l. c.) Pardonnez moi [par-do-nay moo-ah] madame, for this — what is de word — this Green, (l. ) Intrusion. Bull. C'est bon [say bong] — intrusion. Mrs. De M. Your business, sir ? Bull. My business — I may say, our business ; for the firm of Greenville and Bullay Green. New York agents for the Mexican gold mine, known as La Creole — that is, we represent the parties who wish to pur- chase it. Bull. Ze business with you, is to make — to make — inquiries — permit me — Charles De Mori wish to sell ze gold mine La Creole in San Alonzo, Mexico. Ze people ve represent vish to learn from you if his title and right is valid. Mrs. De M. If I understand you rightly, my brother, Charles De Mori, has offered to dispose of the gold mine La Creole, and you are likely to become its purchasers. 14 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Green. Yes ; in the interest of others, however. Bull. Before buying it we, of course, vant to inquire into the title. [Producmg will fro fn pocket.) Now here is a copy of the vill of your uncle — a strange vill. Green. A mighty strange will, to say the least. Bull. He must have been — vat you call — out of his filbert. Green. No, no, — off his nut. [Tapping his head.) Bull. Ah, yes ! — off ze nut. Mrs. De M. [Rising.) My brother has no right to sell the La Creole gold mine, for it is the property of my child. [Xing to R.) Green, (c.) But by this will, I see your uncle bequeaths the estate to your child, should it be a son ; but if a daughter, the property in full, goes to your brother. You have but one child. Mrs. De M. You are right, sir. Bull. Zat is ze daughter. Ah, ze property, you see, goes to ze brother, madame. Mrs. De M. No, sir, but to my son. Bull. A son ! You have but one child, and zat is ze daughter. Green. True ! How can you then, madame, have a son? Mrs. De M. {^Xing to c.) Listen to me, sir. You would pur- chase this property ; and it is only an act of common justice to tell you why I dispute my brother's right to it. Bull, (l.) C'est bon. Proceed; we are all — all prevention. Green. Attention. Bull. Ah, yes, — attention. Mrs. De M. [Sits on ottoman.) When but a mere girl, I was married to a young Northern gentleman, but without the consent or knowledge of my relatives. That marriage was discovered, and, through a diabolical intrigue consummated by my brother, my husband was sentenced by the Mexican Government to hard labor and solitary confinement for hfe. He did not long survive his sentence, for he became an easy victim to consumption. Shortly before the birth of my child, my uncle was seized with a mortal illness, and upon his death-bed sent for and forgave me. He died in my arms, leaving the will to which you allude, bequeathing the property owned by him in Mexico to my child, should it prove to be a male, and to my brother should it prove a female. A few weeks afterward the child was born. Green. And it proved to be a girl. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. iS Mrs. De M. On the contrary, it was a boy-the just and rightful heir to the La Creole gold mine. BuU. Vonderful atmosphere is New York weather! How come de boy born in Nashville, to be changed ,n New York to a girl? Does dose things happen vare often m d.s part of ze ^°Ts!veM. Simple enonghwlrenyouunderstandit. The young lady whom you no doubt have seen with me, is my adopted daughter. I am very reluctant to speak upon this subject, but my du y compels me. Now, sir, when my child was born I knew tha' my brother intended to destroy its life ,f a boy; and when .t proved a son, to save its hfe I caused it to be changed for that of a friend's who gave birth to a female child about the same Ume. ( Rises and goes up stage C but returns down. ) ^ G^n Jcing IobA., aside to /nm.) Just what we were told. We must be careful. Bull. You right, Greenville. ( To Mrs. De Moki.) Your son. madame, vare is he now? Is he living or dead? If hving. ze estate is his ; if dead, your brother can sell ze property to us. Mrs De M. With the necessary proof of his identity, he ^yas confided to an old pensioner of our family, named Jose Massini. a Mexican by birth, who. however, most shamefully betrayed his trust. Bull. And killed ze child. Mrs De M. Such. I beheve. was his intention ; but I have dis- covered that my boy was saved, and brought here to New York. Bull But, parbleu, [par-bluhj where is he? Mrs. De M. That I have yet to discover. But I have told you sufficient; and I warn you that if you purchase this property, it will be at your own risk. Good morning. Bows and Exit R. c. , at back. Bull. Greenville, mon cher. (mong share) what is it zat we shall do-* Green. Wait, and keep our eyes open. The property ,s ve.-y valuable, which Charles De Mori sells; first, b^^-"=;'"^ «"'^ '° isn't good, and secondly, because the specmens shown from it ";rOhTit we can only Hnd out for sure ,f this child is dead or alive, then we would know what to do. i6 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Green. Yes. How can we find out? Bull. I say, if Green. And I say, how ? ( This is worked up, repeated to climax. They appear about to strike each other and the?t shake hands. Sai7ie business throughout play.) Bull. Oh ! go to ze — ze — devil — - Green. Not much. [Placing Jlngers to lips.) Hush! some one is coming. Bull. Ah ! [To Green.) We are friends? Green. Yes ; look [Pointing i.. u. E. ) there. Bull. It's the young lady, and young Eddy, her sweetheart. Ah ! she make my heart jump. Oh, if she was mine ! I — here into the Green. The conservatory Bull. And keep our eyes and ears open, like a couple of — of Green. Damned rascals. Bull. C'est bon — dam rascasals ; for you damrascasal— you, not me. [Business above repeated.) Green. I said we Bull. Oui, (oo-ee) I know, and I said you. Green. Don't insult me. Bull. I — you insult me — but sacre ! (sack-ray.) — I~but dere, let us be friends — have a cigarette. Green. No I You have a cigar. Bull. You know I only smoke cirgarettes. Green. And you know I only smoke cigars. ( They quarrel as before.) Very well, are we friends? Bull. We are. [As they are going k. h. — pointing off \..)T\\Q.xt, is the girl zat I love. Green. [Looking off i^.c. at back.) And there is the woman that I fear, my wife. [Staggers.) Bull. Your wife I Vere ? Green. [Poiftting off L. c. at back.) Coming here — the more I run away from her, the harder she runs after me. Bull. [Thr'oiving kiss off L,. c.) Ah! ze woman zat I love. Green. Oh, you can have her ; I'll not get jealous. Bull. Vere well ; I'll speak to her — by and bye. Exeunt both ifito conservatory R. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 17 Enter MRS. GREENVILLE L. c. at back, accompanied by Fritz. Mrs. Green. [Co7nmg down C. excitedly, with Fritz.) Do you mean to say, sir, my husband is not here? Why I saw him enter this house an hour ago. Here take this dollar ( Gives him a dollar.') and answer my question. Fritz. Vat question would you have mit me ? Mrs. Green. Well ! Have you forgotten already what I asked you? — where' s my husband? Fritz. {^Confused.') Your husband? Yaah, — vot you vant mit him? Mrs. Green. For what does a woman usually want her hus- band ? — he's run away and left me, and a beautiful cottage in Plainfield, New Jersey ; with the rent unpaid, the baker, grocer, and butcher bills to pay, and the gas cut off. Fritz. Your gas cut off? Nein, dey could never cut off your gas, it's natural. (Fritz looks tip stage and sees Greenville looking out from conservatory.') Mrs. Green. I could have forgiven him for these trifles; had he not tried to get a divorce from me. Fritz. Dot vas bad. Mrs. Green. Yes ; and he came home intoxicated two days ago, and broke up the furniture, and then deliberately accused me of having — of having Fritz. Been drunk yourself? Mrs. Green. No! of having imbibed in colors while he imbibed in spirits — in short, he says I am too extravagant in dress. Do you think so ? Fritz. Dere is a great deal of stuff in your skirt, but dot's the fashion, I suppose. {Looks up stage towards conservatory.') Mrs. Green. {Looking up stage ; Greenville disappears from view.) Who's in that conservatory ? Fritz. No von, except der vorms und slugs. Mrs. Green. Come, answer my question and I will make it an- other dollar. Fritz. Vat question? Mrs. Green. What question! — Are you crazy ? — where's my hus- band ? Fritz. [Looks up stage ; Greenville appears at conservatory, holds up five dollar bill, and motions Fritz not to tell his where* 2 i8 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. abouts.) Veil, if you come mit me, I see vere your husband be. {going up C. ) Follow me. Mrs Green. That I mean to do. I intend to traverse the entire breadth of the land to find my other half, and when I do, Fll — I'll Fritz. Vat? Mrs. Green. What? Fll — are you a married man? Fritz. Nein! Mrs. Gr^en. Then I'd rather nor tell you. Exeunt both L. c, at back. Enter Robert and Rowena, arm in arm, l. u. e. Row. [Sitting oft ottomaji, c.) And you intend to follow me South ? Rob. [Leans over her r. of ottoman.) Aye! and to the end of the world. Row. But how Z2C[). you cross the hues? Rob. After the manner intended by you. I'm sure my appli- cation for the required order will not be refused. However, should it be refused, I shall hold you as a hostage of war, and make you my wife. Row. Your wife? [Rising i7i a dreaniifig manner.) Rob. Yes, my wife, for I love you, love you more than it is in words to express. You have brought light and sunshine into my life, and the most waste and l)arren spot in all the world would be a paradise if shared with you. Row. How — how shall I answer you ? Rob. By saying, yes. Row. I dare not ; my mother has warned me. Rob. [Amazed.) Warned you of what ? Row. I scarcely know. There is some mystery, but I do know her never failing tenderness and love, and it is my duty to consult her before I answer you. Rob. Be it so, but I could not bear to hear you answer no. See, here is the rose you gave me ; if you will stay — if you will become my wife, tell me 1 may keep it ; but if you are to crush the dearest and the highest hopes I have, ask me for the rose back again. Row. I will, and v/ithin the hour. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 19 Rob. But will you not tell me, if the answer rested alone with you, could you love me? Row. Robert, I Enter Eddy, l. C. , at back. Eddy. Miss Rowena ! [Coming down c.) Your mamma is ask. ing for you. Row. Where is she, sir? Eddy. In the Blue room. Row. I will go to her. [Sfarfs to go, followed by Robert.) Eddy. (C.) A moment, young man. I wish to speak to you. Rob. Yes, sir. [Leads Rowena to l. u. e., and returns down L. c.) Remember the rose. Eddy. Now, young man, you are faUing in love with that young lady. Rob. No, father, I am not. I have fallen, and so deep that I can never get out again. Eddy. But you will have to. Rob. Impossible ! Eddy. Not when I command you? Rob. Pardon me, father, but in the choice of a wife every man has a right to judge for himself. Eddy. Do you dare to dispute my right ! When I asked why you did not enlist in the army, you said your sympathies were with the Southern side, and though your utterance gave me pain, I for- gave you. Now, in answer to my second demand, you again refuse to do my bidding. Rob. Sir ! I love Rowena. Eddy. Confound it ! You will at once give up all hopes of this lady, if you are an honest man. Rob. If I am an honest man ! I ain an honest man. Eddy. Do you think it honest to marry a woman under false pretences? to find out afterwards that you are not what you seem, but a penniless, nameless man. Rob. Father! Eddy. Do as I wish, and you remain a gentleman. Refuse, and you become a beggar. What's your answer ; will you give her up ? Rob. I can not. Eddy. Then my duty as a gentleman compels me to tell you — 20 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. to prevent you from deceiving this lady — that the name you bear, the position you hold, you have no right to. You are not my son Rob. Not your son ! Eddy. No sir ; but the creature of a questionable aUiance. Rob. 'Tis false ! This is but afoul and dastard insult, and one that shall not go unavenged. {Seizes Eddy, ajtd is about to strike him, when the latter thf'ows him off.^ Eddy. How dare you attempt to strike me ! There, {Points to chair,. R.,) be seated, and listen before you pre-judge me. Re- member, your own obstinacy forces me to tell you the whole — the bitter truth. {Sits on ottoman, c.) Twenty years ago, while travelling through Mexico, I passed a day at Puento Rio ; as I left my hotel at night en route for home, I was accosted by a man I had met before — Jose Massini, a peon. He had a child in his arms, wrapped beneath his cloak, and he begged me, in the name of humanity, to take it and save it. I consented ; I brought the child to New York, and having no wife, no children of my own, I adopted, educated, and made a gentleman of him. {Rises.) You, Robert, are that child. Rob. A foundling ! Oh, why was I not left to perish ! Better have remained within the confines of my lowly birth than lived for such a bitter hour. Better have been the humblest wretch on earth than to be hfted up to fall again hke this. Oh, Rowena ! Rowena ! you are lost to me, indeed {Crosses to chain..') Eddy. You now understand why you must give the lady up ; that if you, a child of circumstances, were to marry the daughter of an aristocratic family, you would, perhaps, bring shame and disgrace upon her. I should never have told you this but for your recklessness and obstinacy. Rob. But have you no papers that would lead to the discovery of my birth, or any clue whereby something definite could be reached, so that I may know the proper station of my life. Eddy. I have in my possession a certain packet, the contents unknown to me, which I have given my word shall not be placed in your hands till you are of age. On your twenty-first birthday — a few months hence — it shall be given you. Rob. Mr. Eddy. Eddy. Nay, Robert, call me " father" still. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 21 Rob. No, sir. I will not bear a name to which I have no right ; nor will I further accept the wealth and position I thought were mine. To-day my life begins — one favor alone I ask ; go to Rowena — for I have not the courage nor the heart ; — Tell her — as you have have told me — all. Tell her also that if she can still love the nameless outcast — if she will wait for me in confidence and trust — I will win a name and position for myself. Eddy. I will. Come with me. Rob. No! my brain's bewildered, and I must think. [Drum and fife band heard in the distance, playing ''The Girl I left Behind Me,'' piano.) Eddy. {Up stage.) Poor boy! Well, it is better that he should know ; he's a fine fellow, and I wish I were his father. Exit, L. c, at back. Rob. [Looking off Yi. c at back.) What are those ? Hum — re- cruits marching to the steamboat landing. [After pause.) I'll walk down and watch them. Rowena, give me but one smile, one word of encouragement and hope, and I'll win a name you shall not blush to bear. Exit, R. c. at back. March ceases. Re-enter Greenville and Bul.l ay from conserva- tory R. They come down stage. Bull, (c.) Sacre bleu! [sack-ray bluh] what a discovery! Just think, the heir to von of the richest gold mines in Mexico, here and tinks he's penniless. Green, (l. c.) And doesn't know it. Bull. A millionaire in his own right ' Green. And doesn't know it. Bull. His mother in the house ! Green. And doesn't know it. Bull. And will not. Oh, what a chance I If we were to buy the property — it vas cheap — and this young man were to have some accidents and were to die, to — to what you call — knock over the pail vid his foot ? Green. Kick the bucket. Bull. C'est bon — kick ze bucket. Green. Where has he gone? [Goes up stage C, looking off R, C. at back.) Bull. [^Following Greenville up stage.) Let us vatch and 22 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. see. His life is vorth too much. Poor fellow ! the vorld is very hard upon Irim, and ve vill Green. Send him to a better one. Bull. You shall send him. Green. No, you. Bull. I say zat you ! {Quarrel as before.') Do you not vant ze property ? Green. And are you not in love with the girl, who doesn't want you ? Bull. Sacre bleu ! like your wife, who prefer running after ze man of men Green. My wife loves me, you French frog ! Bull. Is zat so, you Irish hound? {Quarrel as before.) Ah! we are friends again — some one is coming. Exeunt into conservatory, R. Enter Mrs. De Mori and Rowena, l. h., at back. Mrs. De M. {Coming down c.) And now, Rowena, you know all. Now, since you are a child of strange circumstances, in justice, you must not marry this gentleman, to whose position your own humble origin would be a constant reproach. Row. {Down L. C.) But, why, oh, why was I not told before — before it was too late to crush my love — before my heart was broken I {Sinks on ottoman and weeps.) Mrs. De M. Heaven knows child, I have acted for the best ; and I should not have told you now but for the visit of these agents. Enter Eddy, l. u. e., and crosses to Mrs. De Mori while speaking. Eddy. Madam, at the request of Robert, whose attachment to your daughter Mrs. De M. Stay, Mr. Eddy, in order to avoid any unnecessary pain, or useless explanation, let me at once say that any engage- ment between your son and my daughter is out of the question. {Xing down to extreme R.) Enter Robert, r. c, at back. Rob. {Aside, up stage.) Mr. Eddy here? — then he has told all. Greenville and Bullay Enter and remain at back. Eddy, (c, to Mrs. De Mori.) You will pardon me — but Robert BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 23 Rob. {^Coming dowii L. c.) Will speak for himself — and to Rowena alone. Mrs. DeM. (r.) Be it so. (JfzV/^ /^ Rowena.) Rowena, you know your duty. ^Goes up stage, but retutms down c.) Eddy. [Aside to Robert.) Remember, Robert, this is my final decision ; either you consent to marry Miss Trehayne, or you quit my house. Exit, R. u. E. Rob. {To Rowena.) You have heard all? Row. (c.) All what? Rob. (l. c. ) This sudden change from a position of honor and affluence to that of a person without name or parentage. Row. i^Aside.) He knows all. [Aloud.) Yes; I have heard. Rob. Ah! and your answer? Row. Do you still require it ? Rob. Yes. When I spoke of love, I little dreamt it was the love of a person without name or parentage. Row. [Aside.) Ah! then he knows all, and merely renews his offer from mistaken honor. I will not be a blot on his name. Rob. Rowena, your answer. Row. Give me back the rose. Rob. Ah ! [Kissing it, and gives it to her.) As with that flower, so may your memory of me fade and wither. Good-bye, and for ever. ( Turns slowly up stage.) 'RoH. Good-bye. Oh, mother ! mother ! take me away. (Mrs. De Mori catches Rowena as she faints, and leads her off, l. u. e. Rowena drops fiower, which Robert picks up.) Rob. She has gone from out my life forever. Alas ! in this great wide world I am friendless and alone. [Military music heard, piano in the distance, playing '* Rally ' round the Flag."' Robert stands transfixed to the spot a moment. The music is worked up to forte at the close of the act. ) Enter Lundy, r. c, at back, accompa7iied by Eddy. Rob. Colonel, the proposition you made me is accepted — I offer myself as a recruit. Lundy. (r. c.) And you are accepted. Eddy. (l. c.) Robert! go not thus from me — stay! I implore you Rob. (c) 'Tis too late — besides, my country needs my ser- vices. 24 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Enter RowENA, L. u. E. Row. (l.) Robert — Robert — where are you going ? Rob. (c.) To the war — I am beggared in pocket and bank- rupt in love, and what better fate than food for powder ! Row. Stay, Robert — I do love you ! {Falls into his arms.) Lundy. There is no time to be lost— our brave fellows are on the move. Follow me. Exit, r. c, at back. Rob. [Disengaging himself from Rowena.) Rowena, farewell ! With your name upon my lips, your image in my heart, I go forth to win a name which you will be proud to bear. Farewell ! (Rowena swoons into the arms (?f Eddy.) Tableau. Robert. Eddy, R. c, at back. Rowena. c. l. c. Greenville a7id Bullay. R. H. Quick Curtain. ACT II. Scene. — Dilapidated Warehouse near Frederic ksburgh, Va. At rise of Curtain, Music. Fritz and O'KovYLViE discovered near fire, r. h. Fritz is dancing ; O'Rourke on setitry duty. O'Rourke. [Near fire.) You seem to be mighty clever Avith your legs. It's practising ye are? Fritz, (r.) Vat for? O'Rourke. To run away whin the inemy comes. Fritz. Run avay ! never ! I vas come to fight, und not to run avay, mine friend. {Dances.) O'Rourke. What the divil are you doing ? Fritz. Trying to keep mineself warm. I vas as cold as it vas by the North pole und I don't vish to freeze shust vet. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 25 O'Rourke. [Prodtcci7tgfiask from pocket.^ Arrah, man, take a nip of this. [Gives flask to Fritz.) It will warm you as noth- ing else will. Robert heard without, r. Robert. Halt! O'Rourke. [Seizes flask from Fritz.) Here comes the Ser- geant ! " [Puts fiask back in pocket, and paces to and fro.') The finest lad in the regiment. Fritz. Ugh ! Dere vas a mistake ven dey promoted him ; it should have been me, not him. Don't I vas deserving of dose stripes ? O'Rourke. The divil doubt it — only the sthripes would be on your back. Enter Robert, c. from r. Rob. [On entering.') Keep a sharp lookout, boys. You won't have a long rest. This flag of truce for the burial of the dead will last only two hours, and then the engagement will be re- newed. O'Rourke. That's what we want. Sergeant Exit, Fritz, c. and l. Rob. You can retire from sentry duty awhile, O'Rourke, and rest yourself. The chilly atmosphere hereabout makes the fire a rare treat. I suppose there is a scarcity of tobacco among you so I will share mine. [Produces tobacco.') It isn't much, but you are welcome. O'Rourke. [Taking tobacco.) Thank you. Sergeant. Always good to us men, eh? Rob. [Going to table, L. down stage.) There's no merit. We share the dangers, why not our tobacco ? O'Rourke. Oh, Sergeant, you're as modest as a woman and as brave as a lion. Faix ! I'm glad you're an Irishman. Rob. An Irishman ! O'Rourke. Bedad, yes. You're a Northerner. A Northerner is an Irishman, and an Irishman is a Northerner so they are — they arrived here from the same port. Rob. The Colonel would not agree with you, were he here. He 'nsists upon calling me a Southerner. 26 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. O'Rourke. [^Smoking pipe near fire.) Sure, Sergeant, the Colonel has a prejudice against you, the divil only knows why. Rob. I can nofhelp that. [Lights his pipe and sits at table.") My heart is in the Northern cause, though I am a Southerner by birth. Unfortunately I am educated, and he hates education in the ranks. He opposed my promotion. I did not merit promo- tion, perhaps ; but I do not deserve his dislike. O'Rourke. Not merit promotion ? Bedad ! when you walked into the shot and shell as though they were green peas and led our men into the thickest of the fight, and brought back the wounded officer who otherwise would have perished, the whole regiment were unanimous in their praise of your gallantry. Indeed the Col- onel was obliged to promote you. Rob. Had there been any danger, I should not have done it. O'Rourke. That's the fun of the thing. You believe yourself a coward, and you're the bravest man in the regiment. Rob. You mistake. I do no more than any of my comrades would do. I neither dodge a shot, nor dread a bayonet, because I do not see any danger ; but if I did, I'd run away, O'Rourke. Faix ! you would ? But it would be after the rebels. (O'Rourke resumes sentry duty.) Rob. I have comrades here who prize their lives because they've those at home to love and live for ; and who, in the long and silent nights, can dream of home, of tender looks, of sweet voices whis- pering constant love and hope ; but I am nameless, friendless, and what matters it if I should fall in the heat of battle, or a stray shot should cause my death, when there is no one to regret my loss — no one to visit in time to come my silent tomb — [Drtmt call heard, 'S.. u. e.) Enter Colonel Lundy, c. from r. All salute. Lundy. ( On entering. ) Let the picket be re-enforced, and a sharp lookout be kept. The enemy, though quiet, are dangerous. This truce now in force affords no good reason to believe that mischief is not afoot. Before many hours you may look for some desperate fighting, or I'm no prophet. Where's the Sergeant in command? Rob. [\..y advancing to him.) Here, sir. Lundy. [Aside.) It's strange that I should have taken a dislike to this fellow. Sir, your friend, Mr. Jerome Eddy, is dead. BETWEEN TWO FIRES, 27 Rob. I regret to say the news has already reached me. Lundy. (c.) You behaved ungratefully to him. Rob. Pardon me, Colonel, I shall ever remember him with grati- tude and love. If I preferred fighting my country's enemy to marrying a woman I did not like Lundy. To fall in love with a Southern Creole woman ! Rob. (r. c.) That was my affair, not yours. Lundy. Ahem ! I hope you will prove worthy of your promo- tion, and serve your country faithfully. Rob. I hope so too, sir. Lundy. Rather too important a position this, for a Southerner to hold. Rob. I beg pardon. I am a Northern man. Lundy. Oh ! I thought you were a Southerner — a Creole by birth. Rob. I was a Southerner once, but I am now a Northern gentle- man in all save birthright. Lundy. We don't expect non-commissioned officers to be gentle- men. Rob. But we expect the commissioned officers to be. Lundy. [Aside.) Confound the fellow! [Direct.) Humph! Information has been received at headquarters, that there are spies within our lines. Rob. Spies, Colonel ? Lundy. And that information of our numbers at each post, with drawings and plans, are being furnished to the enemy, and by a person in this regiment [Looks at Robert with suspicion). But let the traitor beware, for if we catch him, we'll shoot him down like a dog ! Rob. [Aside.) Why am I silent under this injustice? Is it respect for a brave man, or because I am a coward ? Lundy. You are silent. Sergeant. Rob. I was hoping. Colonel, that the spy might be caught. Lundy. And that he won't be found in the Northern lines? Rob. Patriotism is too dearly cherished to find spies or traitors among our comrades. Enter Officer c, from L., with two packets. Officer. [To Lundy.) From the Commander-in-Chief, Colonel Lundy. 28 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Lundy. {Opens packet, reads. ^ Eh! what is this? A packet of letters for you, Sergeant. Rob. Thank you, sir. ( Takes packet and goes to table L.) Lundy. {^Reading, c.) " Permit two Southern ladies to pass through your hues." What the devil do women want crossing the lines at such a time ? Officer, (r. c.) The brother of one of the ladies, 1 believe, died some hours since, and through influence with the Com- mander-in-Chief, she has been granted permission to pass to him with the next flag of truce for the wounded. Rob. {Seated at table, reading letter.) Mrs. De Mori and Rowena here ! Lundy. I'd rather see the devil in the camp than a woman ; but the present truce will shortly expire ; they must wait for the next before they can pass. Now to inspect the enemy's outposts. ( Takes field glasses from table L., and Exits c. atid l.) Rob. [Rising and stopping officer as he is about to go off c) Officer, where are the ladies quartered ? Officer. At headquarters. Rob. Thank you. (Exit Officer, c. then R.) I wonder whether they know that I am here ? If they do, will they endeavor to see me before they cross the lines ? And Rowena, does she care, I wonder, to know my fate- — if I am living, or if I am lying beneath the sod, like many a better man with a bullet in his heart? {Comes down c. in a pensive mood.) O'Rourke. (r.) What's the matter wid ye. Sergeant, you've a face as long as a docthor's bill. Rob. Nothing, O'Rourke. , Goes to table l., aside.) Now for the other packet. [Opens it.) As I supposed, from poor Mr. Eddy. [Reads.) "Is to be opened when twenty-one years of age." I am past that now. What is this? A certificate of birth of Robert Lundy, son of Mrs. De Mori, on October 13th, 1843, and properly attested, endorsed by a statement that for family reasons a female child had been substituted. Great Heavens! then Mrs. De Mori is my mother! [Opens second dociunent excitedly.) I wonder what this contains? O'Rourke. [Speaking off at Q. to Lundy.) Bedad, Colonel, you'd be picked off by the inimy hke a pigeon from a trap, at any other time than this. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 29 Lundy. ( Without.) Have no fear for me, O'Rourke. O'Rourke. [Aside.) A severe officer is the Colonel, but for all that he's a brave man. Rob. Good ! the second document, signed by Mr. Eddy, prov- ing that his supposed son is the same child he rescued on the night of the 13th of October, 1843, from Jose Massini. These two documents make the chain of evidence complete. In Mrs. De Mori, I have found a mother — she is in the camp — but I can not leave my post — I have it — I will write to her, and enclose these precious proofs. They will be safer in her custody than in mine just at present. Who knows but I may fall in the next encounter. ( Writes at table in a nervous manner. ) Enter Greenville and Bullay. cfroni r. Bull, (c.) Dis is ze place vare our friend Robert is — is Green, (r.) Stationed. Bull. Stationed. I vish he vas stationed in the next vorld — vat you call Green. Under the ground Bull. Non, non. Green. Sent to the devil. Bull. C'est bon — sent to ze devil. Green. Mrs. De Mori's brother is dead, and we have bought the property — but we can't hold it while this fellow [Pointing to Robert) is living. Bull. Ah ! he must die like many a better man. Green. But, how? he's in every battle and in every charge- fights like a hero. Bull. Ah ! if I were behind him, and could put a bullet in his back. But no, he always comes out unhurt. Sacre ! I hate him. Green. Hush ! Now tell me, have you the drawings of the re- doubts and intrenchments ; and the number of men at each ? Bull. C'est bon — in the hning of my coat Green. To-night they must be in the hands of the Confederates. Bull. You had better take care of them. Green. No— you — to have them found on me would be instant death. Bull. Ugh ! ze Irish is half ze lion, half ze cur. Green. Ugh ! French— half cat and half monkey. 30 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Bull. [Sees LUNDY who appears at c.) Hush! the Colonel! We are friends Lundy. [Coming down C.) Hullo ! what the devil do you want here ? Bull. I vas looking at ze brave fellows you have ze honour to command. Lundy. {Aside.) French! [Direct.) Who are you ? Green. The firm of Greenville and Bullay, general sutlers to the Northern forces. Lundy. You mean a firm of swindlers, for such you are, and all who strive to grow rich in the same way. You sutlers are a curse to the soldiers ; you sell them inferior goods for which you demand exorbitant prices. I should like to hang a few of you. Bull. Mais, parole d' honneur, [may, par-ol do-nuhrj Colonel, you are vare unkind. You give us vat you call — you call ze crooked nob. Green. The straight tip. Lundy. Now look here. Though you possess properly endorsed documents attested at Washington, I won't have you or any other strangers prowhng about here ; we know there are spies within our hnes, especially in this camp. ^^^^- 1 Spies' Green. J ^P^^^ * Lundy. Aye ! Spies, who are making plans of our intrench- ments and fists of our men. It is death to the rascals, when caught. Bull. Monsieur [mo-syuh] I I am a Frenchman, and ze glory of France is my life, my soul ; my heart is full of honor, and swells at ze roll of ze drum, at ze call of ze bugle ; and I vill fight, if necessary, wiz courage for ze flag of my adopted country ; my enemy I vill tread under my heel — I vill stamp upon him, and crush him. I vill shoot, I vill slay, I vill kill ze enemy of my adopted country. [Crosses L. H.; dugle call to arms ; drum calls till Lundy ^^^5- off.') Lundy, Sergeant I Rob. [Still writing.) Yes, Colonel. Lundy. What are you doing? Rob. Writing a letter, but 1 Lave fuiiblied now, [Seals letter.)': Lundy. Follow me. BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 31 Exit LuNDY, followed by Robert. O'RoURKE paci7igfroin r. to L., without c. Bull. {Xing to Green.) 'Tis he ! and there he goes — the man whose death will bring us fortune. Oh, I will give you von hundred times its weight in gold for ze bullet zat finds its vay to his heart ! Green. Then make the offer to some one who wants the job, as I don't care to undertake it. Bull. Hush ! we must get rid of these dam papers, and, seconde, ve must get rid of him. Green. He was writing a letter at that table, to some one. To whom could it be, I wonder ? Bull. Ve vill know ; it's still on ze table. Green. How can you get it ! {Points up to O'Rourke.) If you take it you will be seen. Bull. Vare easy. You speak with ze sentry and I vill steal ze letter. (Greenville ^^\J'L'LA.Y.) You have your answer. No! — . Bull. But I insist. Row. Nay, mother, let me hear him. [Rising.) Mrs. De M. Then, sir, be brief. [Retires up stage c, and off L. u. E.) Bull. Ah ! ze Mrs. De Mori, you love her, why not me? Row. Love, Mr. Bullay, is created by love, and fostered by kindness, devotion, and self-sacrifice, not by threats and persecu- tion. Bull. My heart is kind, and I would not threaten you, nor perse- cute. But, oh ! my love for you have changed my Hfe. For you^ 46 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. I can be as good as ze angels ; for you, I can be as bad as ze devils ; for good or bad you can make me what you will. Row. I have told you, sir, I have no love to give. Bull. You gave it to a boy — a boy who know not how to prize ze jewel he had von and vas ze spy and ze traitor. Row. 'Tis false ! how dare you malign the dead, and to me, who knew him the soul of honor .-^ He lived a blameless life, and died a soldier's death. Bull. He was a spy. Row. He was a man, and worthy to command a woman's love — I have no love for you. [Xing to r.) Bull. {^Xmg to L.) If you have no love for me, you will have no home for yourself, for Mrs. De Mori — she vill starve ; be my wife and save your mother — or she starve. Row. ( To c. ) Starve ! Bull. Oui, for ze property is now mine, not von ting does Mrs. De Mori own. Ah, mon amie, von leetle vord of yours can save her. Row. [Aside.) She has been more than a mother to me, gave me years of tender watchfulness and love. I owe my life and more to her ; and is she not the mother of Robert ? Bull. I vate your answer. Row. If what you say is true — if — if there be no other means to save her Bull. You vill be my wife? Row. For her sake I — I Bull. Ah ! [As he is about to take her ha7id, Mrs. De Mori Re-Enters c. from l. and comes down between them. ) Mrs. De M. Never ! rather than accept the sacrifice, I would go and labor in the cotton-fields beside the negroes ; rather than see her your wife I would lay her dead at my feet ! Row. Mother ! Mrs. DeM. Hush, child! Come what may, with one sacred memory, one chain of love between us, we will starve together. Bull. You vill not let her be my wife ? Then she be my slave ! Mrs. De M. ) , . , , Row. I Your slave I Bull. Oui ; ven zat your son Robert you change, you took ze BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 47 daughter of a slave — an octoroon, and I have bought all ze slaves on zat estate and Rowena vas von of them. Row. {Screams and falls on her knees). No ! no ! you \villhave pity — mercy Mrs. De M. You will not enforce this claim ? Bull. I will— I do. {Calls.) Jose Massini! Enter Massini, C. from L. Mrs. De M. Jose, what means this ? Massini. (r.) Pardon me, Sehora, M. Bullay bought all my slaves some time since, and the mother of Rowena was among the number. Bull. And in ze bill of sale it gives me ze right to all ze unsold offsprings of ze vomen. Ah, madame, you can now understand my position. Row. Oh, sir, have you no human feeling in your heart ? [Music — bugle, fife and druwi distantly heard off \.. u. e.) Bull. Ze von human feehng in my heart vas my love for you. I am your master now ! Monsieur, isn't zis girl von of my slaves ? Vasn't her mother your vife 1 Massini. Yes ; and the girl is yours. Row. Ah.^ Bull. Monsieur, take avay ze girl — my slave. You vill I hold responsible for her safety. Massini. {To Mrs. De Mori.) Pardon me, Sehora, I'm in this man's service. ( To Rovv^ena.) Come. Row. {Kneeling.) Oh, mercy ! Look at my mother. She has lost a son, and in this great unpitying world has no one but me. We are two weak defenceless women. Ah ! are you human ? Are you a man ? Bull. Vat ! a man ? I wouldn't vant to marry you if I vas not. You may as veil go peacefully. You have no hope, no chance. You vould have been ze slave of Robert, but he is dead ! {Drum roll heard without, c.) Enter Robert, q.. frojn l., in officers tmiform. Rob. {Ate.) No, alive, and if Rowena's a slave at all, she's mine ! (Mrs. De Mori and Rowena rush to his arms.) Exit Massini, c. a7td l. 48 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Mrs. De M, (r.) Tell me, my boy, how you were saved? Rob. (c.) After the taking of Fredericksburg by the Confeder- ates, I was removed to their hospital, where I remained under medical care, till the retaking of the town by our side. Ah, mother, I owe much to the Colonel for the restoration of my life. When he discovered I was not killed, as reported, he had me removed to his quarters, and in the crisis of my danger, nursed me back to life with a woman's gentleness. Enter Lundy, c. from L. Rob. My father! [Advancing to lAJ^aiyY.) Mrs. De M. My husband ! ( They embrace.') Lundy, (c.) Louisa, you told me to bring you back your son and he is there. We are not youthful lovers now, and in the vale of life the two best words the human heart can repeat are " Forget " Mrs. De M. And "Forgive." [She gives her hand.) You give me back my son, take back my love. Lundy. I now see the injustice I have done the lad. He's a fine fellow. I have but one regret — one cloud, the spy's papers found in his possession, and I have promised the day he proves his inno- cence I will acknowledge him as my son. Mrs. De M. And why not now ? Lundy. Because there is a cloud upon his honor, and until it is cleared I can not hold out my hand to him and say, Robert, my son. Enter O'RoURKE, c. from L., down steps. Lundy. [Advancing to him.) What news? O'Rourke. [Giving him sealed packet, which Lundy opens.) This packet will, I am sure, answer that question, Lundy. [Reads document.) Eh! The South has succumbed — Lee has surrendered to Grant — Rob. Thank Heaven ! — Ah, the cruel war will soon be at an end ! [Comes down R., leaving Rowena up stage. To Bullay.) Fve an account with you, sir, and I want a settlement now Bull. (r. h.) Avec moi [av-ek moo-ah] — and who ze devil are you? BETWEEN TWO FIRES. 49 Rob. (r. c.) Robert De Mori Lundy, the heir to the estates of Charles De Mori. Bull. Ha ! ha ! You have no proof at all. Mrs. De M. But I have! {Producing paper?) This very deed by which you would make Rowena your slave, proves Robert to be my son. Enter Mr. and Mrs. Greenville and Fritz, l. u. e. Rob. You cannot deny the authority of this document, which proves Mrs. De Mori's story. Bull. No ! no ! But you cannot prove you are zat son. Zat paper proves nothing. Lundy. [Havmg read the paper.) True! for this paper only proves that your child was a boy, and at its birth was exchanged for a female child, the daughter of a planter — Carlos Massini. This is no proof that you, Robert, are that boy. Bull. Ha! ha! [Xing to l.) but you have not ze ozare proof. Green. [Coming down c.) No, they haven't, but I have. All. You ! Green. And here it is. [Gives paper to Robert.) Signed by Mr. Jerome Eddy, properly attested, and proving you, with the other documents, to be beyond a doubt, Robert De Mori Lundy. And more — Jose Massini confessed to me that this girl, Rowena, was not his daughter, but the daughter of honest, though humble white people, now deceased ; therefore, the girl is a free woman. Bull. Ah traitor ! Green. Square as we go. This is the distinguished individual's debt. Bull. Oh ! if I had your head in my hand, your heart under my heel Rob. Now, Mr. BuUay, we will settle up. These two docu- ments were stolen from me in the camp at Fredericksburgh, and the hand that stole them was the spy's — yours was the hand, and you the traitor. O'Rourke. [Corning forward.) Here's the envelope, Colonel, the papers were in. Arrah, sure the seal on it, looks as though it had been tampered with. Rob. [Seizing envelope from O'Rourke.) You're right, O'Rourke ; the seal has been broken, and resealed with another. 50 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. Bull. {Feigns surprise.^ Vith anozzer ! Who's? Rob. Who's? {Co7)ies down to Bullay, suddenly breaks off seal from his watch chain and co^npares it with packet.') Why, •^QiMXS, {Chord.) M. Bullay. See the traitor ! Lundy. {After examining it.) It is so beyond a doubt. Rob- ert, my son, your hand. Rob. Father! Bull. I've got into ze hot vater, and, sacre, it begins to boil. Lundy. (r. c.) So you were the traitor, eh? Bull. I and my partner — let him share ze honor, for we share as we go. Lundy. No. For in consideration of the service he has just ren- dered, his life along with yours, is unforfeited. Now, go ; quit this house instantly or I'll put you under arrest. Go ! Bull. Oui, monsieur ; adieu, M. Greenville, ve have rowed in ze same boat, but ve von't be hanged by ze same rope. Exit L. 3 E. Martial music distinctly heard, piano, and worked to forte, Mrs. De M. What's that? Fritz. {Coming down R. c. from C. where he has beejt looking off R. u. E.) It vas der troops leaving the city. Lundy. Ah, Louisa ! this re-union of the North and South will be the means of re-uniting many hke ourselves, who have been so long parted. Rob. Yes, and redeem the honor of those, who stood "Between Two Fires." Tableau. Mr. and Mrs. Greenville. up R. H. Robert and Rowena. c. Lundy and Mrs. De Morl L. c. Fritz. O'Rourke. R. L- Curtain, THE BEST IS THE CHEAPEST-and-THE CHEAPEST IS THE BEST, HELMER'S ACTOR'S MAKE-UP BOOK. A Practical and Systematic Guide to the Art of Making up for t/ie Stage. PRICE, 25 CENTS. With exhaustive treatment on the Use of Theatrical Wigs and Bkards, The Make-up and its requisite materials, the different features and thkir management, Typical Characikr Masks, etc. With Special Hinis to Ladies. Dksigned for the USEOp'AcrORS AND AMAlkURS, AND FOR BOTH LaDILS AND GENTLE- MEN. Copiously Illustraied. CONTENTS. I Theatrical Wigs.— The Style and Form of Theatrical Wigs and Beards. The Color and Shading of Theatrical Wius and Beards. Directions for Measuring the Head. To put on a Wig properly. ^ II Theaprical Beards.— How to fashion a Beard out of crepe hair. How to make Beards of Wool. The growth of Beard simu- III. The Make-up.— a successful Character Mask, and how to make it. Perspiration during performance, how removed. IV The Makeup Box.— Grease Paints. Grease paint-, in sticks • Flesh Cr< am ; Face Powder; How to use face powder as a liquid 'cream; The various shades of face powder. Water Cos- inei.que. Nose Putty. Court Plaster. Cocoa Butter ( repe Ha.r and Prepared Wool. Grenadine. Dorin's Rouge. Old Man s Rouge. "Juvenile" Rouge. Spirit Gum. Email No.r. Bears Grease. Eyebrow Pencils. Artist's Stomps. Powder Puffs. Hares Feet. Camels'-hair Brushes. t^, tr uUr.A V The Features and their Treatment.— The Lyes, blind- ness 'The Eyelids. The Eyebrows : How to paint out an eyebrow or moustache ; How to paste on eyebrows ; How to regulate bushy eye- brows. The Eyelashes : To alter the appearance of the eyes. Ihe Ears. The Nose : A Roman nose; How to use the nose putty ; A pucrnose; An African nose; a large nose apparently reduced in size. The Mouth and Lips : a juvenile mouth ; an old mouth ; a sensuous mouth; a satirical mouth; a one-sided mouth ; a merry niouth ; A sullen mouth. The Teeth. The Neck, Arms, Hands and Finger- nails : Fingernails lengthened. Wrinkles: Friendbnessand Sullen- ness indicated by wrinkles. Shading. A Starving character. A Cut in the Face. A Thin Face Mnde Fleshy. VI Typical Character Masks.— The Make-up for ^outh : Dimpled cheeks. Manhood. Middle Age. Making up as a Drunk- ard : One method ; another method. Old Age. Negroes. Moors. Chinese. King Lear. Shylock. Macbeth. Richelieu. Statuary. ''°^H. Special Hints to Ladies.— The Make-up. Theatrical Wigs and Hair Goods. B^ In ordering, please specify Helmer's Make-up Book. NBW PLAYS. PRICB 15 CENTS KACFI. THE TRIPLE WEDDING. A Drama, in Three Acts, by Charles Barnard. Four male four female characters— Leading juvenile man, comic old man first and second comedians Reading juvenile lady, two walking ladies and se": vant. Plain room scene ; modern costumes. S cit^icb anu sei- contin^u'ou's^' '^ """^^^ ''"'^ ingenious, the situations well worked out. and the interest Synopsis -Act I.. The Trust ; Act IT., The Search ; Act III.. The Weddin^ Time otperlormance, one hour and a quarter. i ^^a-. xne weaain^. SECOND SIGHT; OR, YOUR FORTUNE FOR A DOLLAR. A Farcical Comedy, in One Act, by Bernard Herbert. Four male and one female characters-Light comedian, low comedian Irish WANTED : A CONFIDENTIAL CLERK. A Farce, in One Act, by W. F. Chapman. SLt male characters, viz.: Eccentric old man with a mrtinli t,r r^.. ^ u Irishman. " dude," shabby genteel comedian IKdve'Srr'lndcK^^^^^ scenery required. Time of playing, thirty minutes. ^ ' '^"'^ *^''^'^'^- "^^ A capital farce, containing none but "star" mrfc «.nk » r i acter acUng, racy dialogue. fuSny situations and cSmical'busi^Ss.'' ""^>'^^^'- A LESSON IN ELEGANCE. A Comedy in One Act, by Bernard Herbert. Four female characters— A butterfly of fashion, comic servant ,,u i ^ j be__efeUve,y staged and cos.„„od. If ^Si^^^L^i ^.^^^^J^iS^ BY FORCE OF IMPULSE. A Drama, m Five Acts, cv H. V Vogt U.0^ character. ,„w comedian, leadPng atld" s?c"„,:d%Tei!eT3fes 'ii'n'd^ c'SSc^'oTj dur4'rp"?Kjrl''LT"c."r^^^^^ r.c.ipj'or.hi'pric'e.''' ""= '■""" ^'"'^ '"" '" "■"'"'• ■'"'-■'■'■-'. » ">• »<1<1«", „n HAROLD ROORBACH, Publisher, 9 MURRAY STREET, NEW YORK. SAVED FROM THE WRECK. A DRAMA IN THREE ACTS, BY THOMAS K. SERRANO. PRICE, 15 CENTS. Eight male, three female characters: Leading Comedy, Juvenile Man, Genteel Villain, Rough Villain, Light Comedian, Escaped Convict, Detective, Utility, Juvenile Lady, Leading Comedy Lady and Old Woman. Two Interior and one Landscape scene. Modern Costumes. Time of playing, two hours and a half. The scene of the action is laid on the New Jersey coast. The plot is of absorbing interest, the ''busi- ness" effective, and the ingenious contrasts of comic and serious situations present a continuous series of surprises for the spectators whose interest is increasingly main- tained up to the final tableau. SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS. Act L The Home of the Light-house Keeper. — An autumn afternoon. — The insult. — True to herself. — A fearless heart. — The unwelcome guest. — Only a foundling. — An abuse of confidence. — The new partner. — The compact. — The dead brought to life. — Saved from the wreck. — Legal advice. — Married for money. — A golden chance. — The intercepted letter. — A vision of wealth. — The forgery. — Within an inch of his life. — The rescue. — Tableau. Act IL Scene as before ; time, night.— Dark clouds gathering.— Changing the jackets. — Father and son. — On duty. — A struggle for fortune. — Loved for himself. — The divided greenbacks. — The agreement. — An unhappy life. — Tlie detective's mis- take. — Arrested.— Mistaken identity. — The likeness again.— On the right track. — The accident. — "Will she be saved?" — Latour's bravery. — A noble sacrifice. — The secret meeting. — Another case of mistaken identity. — The murder. — " Who did it ? "—The torn cuff. — " There stands the murderer ! " — " 'Tis false ! " — The wrong man murdered. — Who was the victim !— Tablhaet. Act IIL Two Days Later. — Plot and counterplot. — Gentleman and convict. — The price of her life. — Some new documents. — The divided banknotes. — Sunshine through the clouds. — Prepared for a watery grave. — Deadly peril. — Father and daugh- ter. — The rising tide. — A life for a signature. — True unto death. — Saved. — The mys- tery solved. — Denouement. — Tableau. THE GYPSIES' FESTIVAL. PRICE, 25 CENTS. A Musical Entertainment for Young People. Introduces the Gypsy Queen, Fortune Teller, Yankee Peddler and a Chorus of Gypsies, of any desired number. The scene is supposed to be a Gypsy Camp. The costumes arc very pretty, but simple ; the dialogue bright ; the music easy and tuneful ; and the drill movements and calis- thenics are graceful. Few properties and no set scenery required, so that the enter- tainment can be represented on any platform. BETWEEN TWO FIRES A Comedy-Drama in Three Acts, by Thomas K. Serrano. PRICE, 15 CENTS. Eight male, three female, and utility characters; Leading juvenile man, first and second walking gentlemen, two light comedians (lawyer and foreign adventurer), Dutch and Irish character comedians, villain, soldiers ; leading juvenile lady, walk- ing lady and comedienne. Three interior scenes ; modern and military costumes. Time of playing, two hours and a half. Apart from unusual interest of plot and skill of construction, the play affords an opportunity of representing the progress of a real battle in the distance (though this is not necessary to the action). The comedy busi- ness is delicious, if well worked up, and a startling phase of the slavery question is sprung upon the audience in the last act. SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS. Act I. At Fort Lee, on the Hudson. — News from the war. — The meeting. — The colonel's strange romance. — Departing for the war. — The intrusted packet. — An honest man. — A last request. — Bitter hatred — 1 he dawn of love. — A northerner's sympathy for the South. — Is he a traitor ? — Held in trust. — La Creole mine for sale. — Financial agents. — A brother's wrong. — An order to cross the enemy's lines. — Fortune's Fool. — Love's penalty. — Man's independence.— Strange disclosures. — A shadowed life. — Beggared in pocket, and bankrupt in love. — His last chance.— The refusal. — Turned from home. — Alone, without a name. — Off to the war. — Tableau. Act IL On the Battlefield. — An Irishman's philosophy. — Unconscious of danger. — Spies in the camp. — The insult. — Risen from the ranks.— The colonel's prejudice.— Letters from home.— The plot to ruin.— A token of love. — True to him. — The plotters at work. — Breaking the seals. — The meeting of husband and wife.— A forlorn hope. — Doomed as a spy. — A struggle for lost honor. — A soldier's death. — Tableau. Act III. Before Richmond.— The home of Mrs De Mori. — The two documents. — A little misunderstanding. — A deserted wife. — The truth revealed. — Brought to light.— Mother and child.— Rowena's sacrifice. — The American Eagle spreads his wings. — The spider's web. — True to himself .—The reconciliation.— A long divided home reunited. — The close of the war. — Tableau. READY XOV. 15, 18S8. THE COURT OF KING CHRISTMAS. PRICE, 25 CENTS. A Christmas entertainment. The action takes place in Santa Claus land on Christ- mas eve, and represents the bustling preparations of St. Nick and his attendant worth- ies for the gratification of all children the next day. The cast may include as many as 36 characters, though fewer will answer, and the entertainment represented on a platform, without troublesome properties. 1 he costumes are simple, the incidental music and drill movements graceful and easily managed, the dialogue uncommonly good, and the whole thing quite above the average. A representation of this enter- tainment will cause the young folks fairly to turn themselves inside out with delight, and, at the same time, enforce the important moral of Peace and Good Will. ENTERTAINMENTS IN PREPARATION. AN EVENING WITH DAVID COPPERFIELD. THE JAPANESE WEDDING. AN EVENING WITH THE PICKWICK CLUB, SAVED FROM THE WRECK. A DRAMA IN THREE ACTS, BY THOMAS K. SERRANO. PRICE, 15 CENTS. Eight male, three female characters: Leading Comedy, Juvenile Man, Genteel Villain, Rough Villain, Light Comedian, Escaped Convict, Detective, Utility, Juvenile Lady, Leading Comedy Lady and Old Woman. Two Interior and one Landscape scene. Modern Costumes. Time of playing, two hours and a half. The scene of the action is laid on the New Jersey coast. The plot is of absorbing interest, the " busi- ness " effective, and the ingenious contrasts of comic and serious situations present a continuous series of surprises for the spectators whose interest is increasingly main- tained up to the final tableau. SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS. Act L The Home of the Light-house Keeper. — An autumn afternoon.— The insult. — True to herself. — A fearless heart. — The unwelcome guest. — Only a foundling. — An abuse of confidence. — The new partner. — The compact. — The dead brought to life. — Saved from the wreck. — Legal advice. — Married for money. — A golden chance. — The intercepted letter. — A vision of wealth. — The forgery. — Within an inch of his life. — The rescue. — Tableau. Act IL Scene as befoke ; time, night.— Dark clouds gathering.— Changing the jackets. — Father and son. — On duty. — A struggle for fortune. — Loved for himself. — The divided greenbacks. — The agreement. — An unhappy life. — The detective's mis- take. — Arrested. — Mistaken identity. — The likeness again. — On the right track. — The accident. — "Will she be saved?" — Latour's bravery. — A noble sacrifice. — The secret meeting. — Another case of mistaken identity. — The murder. — " Who did it? "—The torn cuff. — " There stands the murderer ! " — " 'Tis false !" — The wrong man murdered. — Who was the victim ! — Tableau. Act IIL Two Days Later. — Plot and counterplot. — Gentleman and convict. — The price of her life. — Some new documents. — The divided banknotes. — Sunshine through the clouds. — Prepared for a watery grave. — Deadly peril. — Father and daugh- ter. — The rising tide. — A life for a signature. — True unto death. — Saved. — The mys- tery solved. — Denouement. — Tableau. THE GYPSIES' FESTIVAL PRICE, 25 CENTS. A Musical Entertainment for Young People. Introduces the Gypsy Queen, Fortune Teller, Yankee Peddler and a Chorus of Gypsies, of any desired number. The scene is supposed to be a Gypsy Camp. The costumes are very pretty, but simple ; the dialogue bright ; the music easy and tuneful ; and the drill movements and calis- thenics are graceful. Few properties and no set scenery required, so that the enter* tainment can be represented on any platform, THE BEST IS THE CHEAPEST-and-THE CHEAPEST IS THE BEST. HELMER'S ACTOR'S MAKE-UP BOOK. A Practical and Systematic Guide to the Art c/ Making up /or the Stage. PRICE, 25 CENTS. With exhaustive treatment on the Use of Theatrical Wigs and Beards, The Make-up and its requisite materials, the different features and their managemen r, Typical Character Masks, etc. With Special Hints to Ladies. Designed for the use of Actors and Amateurs, and for both Ladies and Gentle- men. Copiously Illustrated. CONTENTS. L Theatrical Wigs. — The Style and Form of Theatrical Wigs and Beards. The Color and Shading of Theatrical Wigs and Beards. Directions for Measuring the Head. To put on a Wig properly. n. Theatrical Beards. — How to fashion a Beard out of crepe hair. How to make Beards of Wool. The growth of Beard simu- lated. HL The Make-up. — A successful Character Mask, and how to make it. Perspiration during performance, how removed. IV. The Make-up Box. — Gtease Paints. Grease paintL in sticks; Flesh Cream; Face Powder; How to use face powder as a liquid cream ; The various shades of face powder. Water Cos- nietique. Nose Putty. Court Plaster. Cocoa Butter. Crepe Hair and Prepared Wool. Grenadine. Dorin's Rouge. "Old Man's" Rouge. "Juvenile" Rouge. Spirit Gum. Email Noir. Bear's Grease. Eyebrow Pencils. Artist's Stomps. Powder Puffs. Hares' Feet. Camels'-hair Brushes. V. The Features and their Treatment. — The Eyes : blind- ness. The Eyelids. The Eyebrows : How to paint out an eyebrow or moustache ; llow to paste on eyebrows ; How to regulate bushy eye- brows. The Eyelashes : To alter the appearance of the eyes. The Ears. The Nose : A Roman nose ; How to use the nose putty ; A pug nose ; An African nose; a large nose apparently reduced in size. The Mouih and Lips : a juvenile mouth ; an old mouth ; a sensuous mouth ; a satirical mouth ; a one-sided mouth ; a merry mouth ; A sullen mouth. The Teeth. The Neck, Arms, Hands and Finger- nails : Fingernails lengthened. Wrinkles: Friendliness and Sullen- ness indicated by wrinkles. Shading. A Starving character. A Cut in the Face. A Thin Face Made Fleshy. VI. Typical Character Masks. — The Make-up for Youth : Dimpled cheeks. Manhood. Middle Age. Making up as a Drunk- ard : One method ; another method. Old Age. Negroes. Moors. Chinese. King Lear. Shylock, Macbeth. Richelieu. Statuary. Clowns. VII. Special Hints to Ladies. — The Make-up. Theatrical Wigs and Hair Goods. In ordering, please specify Helmer's Make-up Book. THE ETHIOPIAN DRAMA. PRICE 15 CENTS EACH J Robert Make- Airs. 2 Hox and Cox. 3 Mazeppa. 4 United States Mail. 5 The Coopers. 6 Old Dad'-, Cabin. 7 The Rival J.overs. 8 The Sham Doctor. 9 JoUv Millers. 10 Villikins and his Dinah. 11 The Quack Doctor. 12 The Mystic Spell. 13 The lilack Statue. 14 Uncle Jeff. 15 The Mi-schievous Nij2:ger 16 The Ulack Shoemaker. 17 The Magic Penny. 18 The Wreck. 19 Uh, Hush ; or. The Vir- ginny Cupids. 20 The Portrait Painter. 21 The Hop of Fashion. 22 Bone Squash. 23 The Virginia Mummy. 24 Thieves at the Mill. 25 Comedy of Errors. 26 Les Miserables. 27 New Year's Calls. 28 Troublesome Servant. 29 Great Arrival. 30 Rooms to Let. 31 Hlack Crook Burlesque. 32 Ticket Taker. 33 Hypochondriac. 34 William Tell. 35 Rose Dale. 36 Feast. 37 Fenian Spy. 38 Jack's the Lad. 39 Othello. Camille. Nobody's Son. Sports on a Lark. Actor and Singer. Shylock. Quarrelsome Servants. Haunted House. No Cure, No Pay. Fighting for the Union Hamlet the Dainty. Corsican Twins. Deaf— in a Horn. Challenge Dance. De Trouble begins at Nine. Scenes at Gurney's. 1 6,000 Years Ago. Stage-struck Darkey. Black Mail. Highest Price for Old Clothes. Howls from the Owl Train. Old Hunks. The Three Black Smiths. Turkeys in Season. Juba. A Night wid Brudder Bones. Dixie. King CufTee. Old Zip Coon. Cooney in de Hollow Porgy Joe. Gallus Jake. De Coon Hunt. Don Cato. Sambo's Return. Under de Kerosene. Mysterious Stranger Petruchio the THE AMATEUR AND YARI 1 1 iJ- r^X)iXJ-x X ^pj^j^g. ^^ CENTS EACH. Afloat and Ashore. Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp. All's Fair in Love and War. Bad Temper, A Babes in the Wood, The Blue- Beard; or, Female Curiosity. Caught in his own Toils. Closing of the " Eagle." Dark Deeds. Eligible Situation, An Fairy Freaks. Fireside Diplomacy. Frog Prince, The Furnished Apartments. Girls of the Period, The Happy Dispatch, The Harlequin Little Red Riding Hood. Harvest Storm, The His First Brief. Ingomar (Burlesque). Jack, the Giant- Killer. 76 De Debbil and De Faust um. 77 De Old Gum Game. 78 Hunk's Wedding Day. 79 De Octoroon. 80 De Old Kentucky Homft 81 Lucinda's Wedding. &2 Mum bo Jum. 83 Ue Creole Ball. 8 Mishaps of Cxsar Crura. 8r 'ete's Luck. 8i. ^ete and Ephraim. 8; lube Hawkins. 88 "De Darkey's Dream. 89 Chris. Johnson. 90 Scippio Africanus. 91 De Ghost ob Bon« Squash. 92 De Darkey Tragedian. 93 Possum Fat. 94 Dat Same Ole Coon. 95 Popsev Dean. 96 De Rival Mokes. 97 Uncle Tom. 98 Desdemonum. 99 Up Head. 100 De Maid ob de Hunk- puncas. loi De Trail ob Blood. 102 De Debbil and de Maiden. 103 De Cream ob Tenors. 104 (Jld Uncle Billy. 105 An Elephant on Ice. 106 A Manager in a Fix. 107 Bones at a Raffle. 108 Aunty Lhloe. 109 Dancing Mad. no Julianna Johnson. Ill An Unhappy Pair. ETY STAGE. Slighted Treasures. Three Temptations, The Tragedy Transmogrified, Two Gentlemen at Mivart S. Virtue Victorious. Wearing of the Green. Wine Cup, The Women's Rights. Wrong Battle, The VARIETY. All in der Family. Big Bananna, The Decree of Divorce, The Dot Mad Tog. Dot Quied Lotchings. Dot Matrimonial Advertise- ment. Gay Old Man am I, A Leedle Misdake A Mad Astronomer, A Lonely Pollywog of the Mill Pond. The Mulcahy's Cat. Katherine and (Burlesque). Last Lilly, The Little Red Riding Hood Little Silver Hair and Three Bears. Love (Burlesque). Loves of Little Bo-Peep an( Little Boy, The Lyrical Lover, A Marry in Haste and Repent at Leisure. Matched, But Not Mated. Maud's Command. Medical Man, A Mischievou?- Bob. Monsieur Pierre. Mothers and Fathers. Out of the Depths. Penelope Ann. Pet Lamb, The Poisoned Darkies, The Menof Sherwood Forest. | Spelling Match, ine ''*'^' A ly of the above 'will be sent by mail on receipt of the price, by HAROLD ROORBACK, Publisher, Successor to Eoorb.\ch k Comp.*.ny. g Murray Street, New Y«rlc P. O. Box 3410. ' LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS BY FORCE OF li ^^0 017 400 180 7 • ^ Ukaxi.x IK KivE AcT^, BY H. V. VogtT Price, 15 Cents. SYNOPSIS OF EVENTS. clutcli s office._A fruitless i.)urnev. a lieap of accimiulated biisiiiess and a chapter of unparalleled impudence- News from the front.-A poor girl's trouble and a lawyer's big heart. -Hil- da s sad story.-" I '11 see this thing Tf^'\^^ It costs me a fortune!"— A sudden departure in search of a clue — 1 he meetnio-offriends.-Oneof nature's noblemen.— Maitland bctravs his secret by a slip of the tongue.~The ball at J.eachwood.— 1 wospoonevs.fresh from college.lose their heads and then- hearts, r ^4"ashed by Jupiter ! '—Trusting innocence and polished villainy.— The interrupted tryst. - An honest' man's avowal.- A picture of charming simpli- city.-Murdell and Hilda meet face to lace.— 1 dare vou to make another victim ! —A scoundrel's discomfiture.— Tableau. 1 ^^l^^' TheSrparatign.— The Mait- land homestead.— Anastasia's doubts — A warm welcome and its icy reception — torebodings and doubts.— Father and son.— Searchingquestions.-A domestic storm and a parent's command.— A toiled VI lain s wrath.-Enlisting for the '<'f/";~^''^ collapse of the cowards. ■^^i%^^::s^^hBiS^E ' M.s,^ .?z?. ... ^^, ^ ,,p,,v, i,„; per s up ! ' Hilda s sympathy and Adrienne's silent despair.-lhe result of impulse.-The ?i^ l^'^'^f^ ^."'" '^*^ son.-Anastasia and Doilerclutch.-Coriolanus comes to S"J*-^"of^a»fl bad news.-Husband and wife.-Reginald demands an ex- planation.— A hand without a heart — Ihe separation.— A new recruit.— Too late; the roil is signed.— Tableau. ACT III, Duty vs. Impulse.- Four vears later.— A camp in the armv.— Longings. --"Onlv six miles from A '?^!. T^''^ sl