:- "-^^0^ : ^' .. vAq^ *l«°* o ^"'v^ . ^ ^^0^ ! vO* » .^'% r. ^^^ ^^ --^K* ^^ ^^^^ ^ '^iSSts^*^ o 4 o ^^ -^ ^^ . V ' . : '-^^0^ / COUSIN KATE f t ^ -J o 1 £> Cousin Kate A COMEDY In Three Acts By HUBERT HENRT DAFIES All rights reserved under the International Copyright Act. Performance forbidden and right of representation reserved. Application for the right to produce this play may he made to Charles Frohman, Empire Theatre New York. BOSTON WALTER H. BAKER &- CO. LONDON WILLIAM HEINE MANN MCMX COUSIN KATE Copyright, 1910, by HUBERT HENRY DAVIES All rights reserved ^ i ^^ ■^^.x^ PLEASE READ CAREFULLY The acting rights of this play are reserved by the author. Performance is strictly forbidden unless his express consent or that of his agent has first been obtained, and attention is called to the penalties provided by law for any infringe- ment of his rights, as follows : — "Sec. 40fiG : — Any person publicly performing or repre- senting any dramatic or musical composition for which copyright has lieeu obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of said dramatic or musical composition, or his heirs and assigns, shall be liable for damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such sum, not less than one hundred dollars for the first and fifty dollars for every subsequent performance, as co the court shall appear to be just. If the unlawful pprfoimance and representation be wilful and for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period not exceeding one year." — U. S. Revised Statute.s, Title 60, Chap. S. The right to perform this play professionally may be ob- tained by addressing Charles Frohman, Empire Theatre, New York. CCLD 20190 t CAST OF CHARACTERS Heath Desmond Rev. James Bartlett Bobby Spencer Mrs. Spencer Amy Spencer Jane Cousin Kate and An artist A clergyman A schoolboy A ivifloio A (jirl A servant A novelist Act I. Act II. Act III. At Mrs. Spencer's The e^npty house At Mrs. Spencer's The action takes place in a rural district of England, at the present day, and covers a period of about Jive hours. This play was jirst acted at the Haymarket Theatre, London, on Thursday evening, June 18th, 1003, tmder the management of Messrs. Frederick Harrison and Cyril Maude. Below is a copy of the original programine. Cousin Kate A //ElV COMEDY IN THREE ACTS By HUBERT HENRY DAVIES Performed for the first time 07i Thursday eveniti£^,Jtitte iSth, IQOJ. Heath Desmond Rev. James Bartlett Bobby Spencer Mrs. Spencer Amy Spencer Jane .... Kate Curtis Mr. Cyril Maude Mr. Rudge Harding Master Cyril Smith Miss Carlotta Addison Aliss Beatrice Ferrar Miss Pamela Gaythorne Miss Ellis Jeffreys The action takes place in a rural district of Eng- land, and covers a period of about five hours. Acts I. and III. Drawing-room at Mrs. Spencer's, Walter Hann. Act II. The sitting-room at " Owlscot," Walter Hann. COUSIN KATE THE FIEST ACT SCENE : — A drawing-room at Mrs. Spencek's, There is a door on the left-hand side and a French window opposite the audience. It is a cheerful room, used as a general sitting-room, with simple and rather old-fashioned fumi' ture. The window is wide open and shows a pretty country garden in mid-summer. There is a large oval table near the centre, with hoohs and a howl of flowers upon it. A writing-table against the wall near the door. A sofa, seV' eral chairs and other suitable furniture to complete scene; pictures and brackets on the wall. A picture over the writing-table repre- sents a girl feeding pigeons. Mrs. Spencer is seated on the sofa, sewing, with a capacious worlc-basTcet by her side. She is a middle-aged widow, a gentlewoman who has always lived in the country and is unsophisti- cated in the ivays of the world. By nature she is soft and affectionate, tactless, and with no fjrce of character. She is well, but not stylishly, dressed. 1 2 COUSIN KATE Amy Spencer, her daughter, is seated in an arm- chair doing nothing. She is a pretty girl of twenty, well, but plainly, dressed. She is a serious girl, practical and without imaginor Hon or humour; very honestly trying to do her duty — always very sincere and unaf' fected. Bobby Spencer, Amy'^brother, a boy of fourteen, is seated at the table reading; his book and elbows are on the table and his head clasped betiveen his hands. He wears a flannel shirt and trousers, a dark coat and canvas shoes. From the serious demeanour of the Spencers when the curtain rises, it is evident that something is weighing heavily upon them. Amy listlessly turns her engagement ring round on her finger, then takes it off and ex- amines it, without noticing the others. When she takes it off, Mrs. Spencer ivatches her furtively over her work, and Bobby steals a glance at her. Amy replaces the ring. Mrs. Spencer and Bobby continue sewing and reading. Amy rises, goes to the window and looks off. As soon as Amy's back is turned, Mrs. Spencer drops her work and watches her. Bobby also looks up from his book and watches her; then Mrs. Spencer and Bobby look at each other. Amy turns from the win- dow and glances at the others, who continue sewing and reading and pretend not to be watching her. Amy goes out and closes the COUSIN KATE 3 door. As soon as she has gone, Mrs. Spencer lays her work down 'beside her, takes out her handkerchief and dries her eyes. Bobby pushes his book away and leans back in his chair. Mrs. Spencer. Poor Amy ! BOPCT. I'd like to kill him. Mrs. Spencer. He may have had some good reason for going away. I try to believe so. Bobby. But wouldn't he have told her if he had, instead of leaving her like this without a word? He's had two days to tell her in. We may as well make up our minds that he's gone for good. Mrs. Spencer. [With a fresh burst of tears.'\ Oh, it's terrible to see her going about the house so pale and quiet. If she'd only talk about it, but she won't. She feels the humiliation so. [Wipes her eyes.] Bobby. I can't help thinking I ought to do something ! Mrs. Spencer. [Sorrowfully.'] What could you do ? 4 COUSIN KATE Bobby. If I knew where he was, I might go for him. Of course, he could lick me, but I might land him a punch or two on his beastly jaw first — and that 'ud be somethin' ! [Gloomily.] It's sittin' still and doin' notliin' that's so awful. I ought to be doia' somethin' — because — well — I'm the only man in our family. [There is a JcnocTc on the door; Mrs. Spencer quicMy resumes her work, try- ing to look composed. Mrs. Spencer. Come in. [Jane, a country servant maid, with a perpetual grin, enters with a parcel. Jane. Is Miss Amy 'ere? Mrs. Spencer. She just went out. What have you there, Jane ? Jane. I think it's another wedding present, mum. Miss 'Orner left it. Mrs. Spencer. Miss Horner? COUSIN KATE 5 Jane. The 'ousemaid at Darbisher's, mum. Mrs. Spencer. Oh, from Mrs. Darbisher. Please put it on the table. Jane. Yes, mum. [Lays the parcel on the table.] Mrs. Spencer, [As Jane goes to the door.] Don't disturb Miss Amy. I'll tell her. Jane. Yes, mum. [Jane goes out; Mrs. Spencer goes to the table, takes up the parcel and looks at it. Mrs. Spencer. I'd better put it where Amy won't see it. [Puts the parcel in a drawer of the writing-table.] I don't think Jane knows yet that there's anything the matter. Bobby. [Watching his mother.] We might as well tell everybody. He won't come back, and it might stop the presents comin'. [Nearly crying.] I can't bear it when the presents come. [Turns quickly to window to hide his emotion. Mrs. 6 COUSIN KATE Spencer goes bach to the sofa and resumes her sewing. 1 Mrs. Spencer. It'll be better when Cousin Kate comes. Bobby. What can she do ? Mrs. Spencer. I don't know, but I always have a feeling that things will be better when Cousin Kate comes. Bobby. [Going nearer to the window as if he sees someone approaching.] Here's Mr. Bartlett. [Turns to his mother.] Shall I go and say you won't see him? Mrs. Spencer. [Dropping her work.] No, I asked him to call. Bobby. Are you goin' to tell him? Mrs. Spencer. Yes, I must. You see, he's going on with the arrangements at the church. [There is a knoch at the door.] Come in. [Jane enters. Jane. Mr. Bartlett, mum. COUSIN KATE 7 [Mrs. Spencer places her work and hashet on the table. The Eev. James Bart- LETT^ a serious young Anglican clergy- man, enters. He is about thirty-five, rather stiff, and pompous, and always very much in earnest. His oratorical and platitudinous style of talking has become natural through habit. He quite sincerely does what he thinks is right but he can't see through himself. He always employs a genial manner in greet- ing people but geniality is not natural to him. Bartlett. Good afternoon, Mrs. Spencer. \He shakes hands with her.'\ [Jane goes out. Bobby shakes hands with Mr. Bartlett. Bobby. [Lugubriously.'] How d'you do, Mr. Bartlett? Bartlett. \In his genial manner — patting Bobby on the back.] Well, Eobert, how are the holiday tasks going? Bobby. Not very well. Bartlett. Too much cricket, eh? COUSIN KATE Bobby. [With a sigh-l No — it isn't that. [Turns away.] [Mr. Bartlett seats himself in an arm- chair and addresses Mrs. Spencer. Bartlett. We've just been practicing the wedding hymn. The boys really give a capital rendering of " The Voice that breathed o'er Eden." Mrs. Spencer, [Embarrassed, trying to control her emotion; Bobby watching her.] Mr. Bartlett, we are in great trouble. [She pauses, Bartlett instantly drops the genial manner and leans forivard in the attitude of professional sympathiser.] Amy will not be married the day after to-morrow. [Begin- ning to weep.] Mr. Desmond has gone away. [She pauses to wipe her eyes before proceeding.] Bartlett. [Not quite understanding.] Gone away? Bobby. [Bitterly.] He's jilted her — the cad. Bartlett. [Sincerely, hut professionally to Mrs. Spen- cer.] May I say that I sympathise with you most deeply in this visitation? COUSIN KATE 9 Mrs. Spencer. [Recovering herself.] Thank you. I was sure you would. I don't know what to think of it all. Mr. Desmond was here as usual on Sunday eve- ning, and he said nothing about going away, but when Bobby went round to his lodgings on Mon- day morning, they told him he had packed his things and gone. Bartlett. He sent you no explanation? Mrs. Spenceb. No — and he left no address. Bartlett. Have you taken any steps to find out where he went? Mrs. Spencer, No. I thought it would hardly become us to go after him if he wishes to leave us. Perhaps I was wrong. I don't know what to do. I'm afraid we are rather a helpless little family; but we've never had to face anything like this before. (Dries her eyes agai^i.l Bartlett. Let us hope that though your way now seems so dark it may ultimately prove to be all for the best. 10 COUSIN KATE Mrs. Spencer. Yes, but two days before the wedding — [Weeps again.} Bobby. [Sorrow fully.l She's got her dress and veil and everythin' and the cake came this morning. Mrs. Spencer. Their home is ahnost ready for them. He wouldn't go away now if he meant to marry Amy. Bartlett. It's very lamentable — very lamentable. Mrs. Spencer. [Cheering up a hit.'] It will be better when Cousin Kate comes. Bobby. Mr. Bartlett doesn't know who Cousin Kate is, mother. Mrs. Spencer. My cousin, Miss Curtis. She is coming on a visit. She was coming to the wedding. She doesn't know yet — of course. We are all very fond of her, and she's seen us through many a trouble. When my dear husband died, and Amy and I were prostrate with grief, she came and did everything for us. I don't know what we should do without Cousin Kate. COUSIN KATE 11 Bobby. She lives in London. She writes novels. Mrs. Spencer. I think you told me that you had read some of her books. Bartlett. [Stiffening with disapprobation.^ I have. Mrs. Spencer. l^Simply.'] She isn't at all like her books. She's very nice. Bobby. Yes, she's jolly. She used to play cricket with me when I was a kid. Mrs. Spencer. She's been like an elder sister to these children — and to me too. [Observing Bartlett's stiff attitude.l I'm afraid you don't approve of her books, by your face. Bartlett. I found her cynical attitude towards love and marriage very distressing. Mrs. Spencer. I don't pretend to be a critic, and I couldn't make head or tail of Kate's last book, but no one 12 COUSIN KATE could help loving her. She is so unselfish and affectionate — wayward and impulsive, too. When she was younger I was afraid she might do some- thing imprudent. I could so easily imagine her eloping or going upon the stage. But she'll be a great help now. [Amy enters.] She's devoted to Amy. [Sees Amy.] Oh, Amy dear, here's Mr. Bartlett. [Amy goes to Mr. Bartlett who rises and shakes hands with her. Mrs. Spencer and Bobby hoth watch her anxiously. She is very composed. Amy. Bobby, I think it's time you went to meet Cousin Kate. Bobby. [Looking sorrowfully at Amy.] Yes, I'll go. [Bobby goes cmt. Amy. [To Mrs. Spencer.] Aren't you going to the Mothers' Meeting? Mrs. Spencer. [Rising. 1 Perhaps I'd better. I suppose they'd wonder if I didn't come. Amy. I think there is no need for us to neglect our duties. COUSIN KATE 13 Mrs. Spencer. No, dear, I'll just go and put in an appearance, any way, and if Cousin Kate comes before I'm back you can look after her — can't you ? You'll excuse me, won't you, Mr. Bartlett? [Mr. Bartlett opens the door for Mrs. Spencer. She looks at Amy^ hesitates, then goes to her and Jcisses her emotion- ally. Amy receives the hiss Jcindly hut undemonstratively. Mrs. Spencer goes out, wiping her eyes. Mr. Bartlett closes the door after her. Bartlett. [Impressively.'] Oh, if only there were more Christian women like you. Miss Spencer. Amy. [Turns to him a little surprised.'] Like me? Bartlett. More who place their duties before their pleas- ures or — what is even rarer, before their griefs. Amy. I want to do my duty, but sometimes it is very hard even to know what it is. Bartlett. Be patient, and be assured that everything will be made plain. 14 COUSIN KATE Amy. I am patient, but everything is not made plain. I know it is rebellious of me to speak so, but I think you understand a Christian's difficulties better than most people do. Our own vicar is very good, of course — but he is so old, I suppose he can't understand a young person's temptations very well, and since you came here to take his place, you have so often helped me. You say things that seem to be meant specially for me. Bartlett. I am very grateful if I have been the instrument chosen to bring the truth home to you. Amy. You preached two Sundays ago against the danger of yoking ourselves with unbelievers. Did you mean wicked people — like atheists — or just flighty people — lilce — like — Bartlett. The Irish. [Amy drops her eyes.] I am afraid there is not a very wide difference between the two states. Flightiness is the forerunner of crime. Amy. Oh, but with a person to whom crime is out of the question — a person who doesn't trouble much about going to church, but who is always good and kind. COUSIN KATE 15 Bartlett. That is not a very easy question to decide off- hand. Amy, It is a question I have to decide. I know I am weak and inexperienced, but I do want to do what is right, and I want to do right by other people, too. It isn't always easy to do both. Bartlett. Do you find it impossible to fulfil your duties towards others, and at the same time to follow the dictates of your own conscience? Amy. [Simply.'l I don't know till I try. I suppose I ought to be wise enough to settle my own diffi- culties, but you see I'm not. [Sits on the sofa.l Bartlett. [Speaking more earnestly than he has yet done.'] If you were free from all obligations, would you be able to perform your duties better singly, or yoked with one whose aims were the same as your own, whose loving interest would support not hinder you, in your life's work? [Sits beside her.] Amy. [Looking on the ground.] I think I could do 16 COUSIN KATE more good with someone to guide me. [Looks up at him.'] I suppose that's very weak? Bartlett. No, no. [ffe holes into her eyes. She turns them avjay embarrassed.'] It is a divine ordinance that each should have a loving helpmeet to assist and cheer him on this earthly pilgrimage. [He bends towards her, speaJcing like a lover.] Miss Spencer — Amy — [There is a knock on the door. Amy rises abruptly. Jane bursts in. Jane. [Excitedly.] She's coming. Amy. [To Mr. Bartlett.] It's Cousin Kate. Jane. She's not here yet. Miss, but I see the cab go round the corner, and it's her box — the same she had last time. [Jane goes out. Amy. [Constrained as she turns to Mr. Bartlett.] Will you stay and meet her? Bartlett. I think not. May I come and renew this con- versation another time? COUSIN KATE 17 Amy. Amy. We shall be very pleased to see you if you care to come {^patLses, then says hurriedly'^ to supper this evening. Babtlett. Thank you. I will come. [Mr. Bartlett goes out. [Enter Cousin Kate. She is a charming, humour' ous, high-spirited, affectionate woman of twenty-nine. She knows the world, and her experience has only matured, not embittered her. She is devoted to the Spencers; their simplicity appeals to her heart, and she feels as if she ivere their gv/irdian — a position they very willingly grant her. She is charm- ingly dressed. She carries a small hag in one hand, an umbrella and sunshade closed in the other, and a light dust-coat over one arm. As she is passing the window she sees Amy, stops, and enters by the window. Kate. Here you are. [Swoops upon Amy, embraces her with her arms full, and hisses her on each cheek.'] I'm so glad to see you. [She turns to deposit her things on the table; Amy helps her.] Oh, my dear, I've had such an adventure in the train. Amy. [Apprehensively.] What — an acddent? 18 COUSIN KATE Kate. No — a man. Amy. Did he speak to you ? Kate. [Demurely as she draws off her gloves.'] Yes — he spoke to me. Amy. How dreadful! It's getting worse and worse on this line. Florrie Cutler told me the most awful experience she had the other day. I think the man put his feet up and whistled, — and when she looked at him he winked. [LooTcs at Kate, who is wrestling with her gloves.] I can see you are all in a flutter. [Kate smiles at her.] Did he go far? Kate. All the way. [Amy opens her mouth and eyes in sur- prise. Kate. Yes. He got out at this station. Amy. [Relieved.] Oh, I meant did he do more than just speak? Kate. He laughed and — [Amy looks horrified. COUSIN KATE 19 Kate smiles at her as she throws her gloves on the table.] My dear, he was perfectly charming. Amy. [Shoclced.l Oh, Cousin Kate! Kate. [Demurely.] How's your mother? Amy. She's quite well. But how did you get into conversation with him? Kate. The usual way. He asked me if I'd like the window up or down. I said " up " . . . or was it " down " ? Anyhow I said I'd have it the way it wasn't. You know he wasn't at all like a man in a train. Generally I accept the window up or down and refuse the newspaper, but he offered his so charmingly — a little shyly, but not at all clumsily. He was so nice. Amy. [Thoughtfully.] 1 suppose there is no harm in accepting a newspaper from a fellow traveller. Kate. Of course not. 20 COUSIN KATE Amy. If one isn't a very young woman. Kate. [Turns suddenly on Amy, protesting good- humouredly.^ Oh, Amy, you demon! Amy. [Afraid she has hurt Kate's feelings.'] Oh, I don't mean — Kate. You mean me. [Smiling.'] But I don't mind, because a very young woman wouldn't know the sort of man she has to snub from the sort it's safe to be nice to. [Folds her hands in mock resignation.] Old age has its compensations. Amy. Of course you merely returned his paper with a word of thanks. Kate. Er — er — How^s Bobby? [She wanders about looTcing at things.] Amy. He went to the station to meet you. Kate. Did he ? I didn't see him. But I was in such a state. COUSIN KATE 21 Amy. [Innocently.] Were you? Why? Kate. Oh, with my luggage, of course. I leapt into a cab and flew up here without saying good-bye. Amy. Good-bye? Who came with you? Kate. [Darting an impatient look at Amy.] Oh, Amy ! [Stops in front of the picture.] What a pretty picture ! It's new since I was here. [Goes closer to it as if to examine it carefully.] A girl feeding pigeons — very nice. Amy. [Puzzling.] Oh, I see — without saying good- bye to the man who lent you the newspaper. Who was he? Kate. [Still regarding the picture.] I don't know. I never saw him before. [Slowly — almost with a sigh.] I shall never see him again. [Pauses, gazing in front of her, hut not at the picture. BlinJcs her eyes and turns round quickly, speaking more to herself than Amy.] Of course I shall never see him again. What am I thinking of ? 22 COUSIN KATE Amy. But you say he got out here. Kate. If I happened to meet him — I daresay I might — bow to him. I suppose I could do that without behaving like a servant? Amy. I wonder if I know him. I know everyone about here by sight. What was he like? Kate. Sunshine. Amy. Tall or short? Kate. Just right — not too anything. Amy. What was it that attracted you so greatly to him? Kate. I don't know; he wasn't much to look at. Amy. Ugly? Kate. N"o! or I shouldn't have asked him to share lunch. COUSIN KATE 23 Amy. [Amazed.'] Share lunch? Kate. [Embarrassed; laughs and comes quicJcly tO' wards Amy.] Oh, I forgot. I didn't tell you that. You see, Amy, it's a long journey from town — so I had a lunch-basket — and he hadn't one, and I was sure he must be getting hungry — and they give you so much in those lunch- baskets — I never can eat it all, can you ? And — Well, Amy, you wouldn't put a whole chicken leg under the seat if you saw a starving man opposite, would you? Amy. So you — ? Kate. So we nursed the lunch-basket between us. Amy. [Horrified.'} Nursed it! Kate. It was the easiest way. Would you have us put it on the seat and eat sideways like this? [She illustrates how awbward it would he.] Very awkward. Amy. [Thoughtfully.] I wonder who he was? 24 COUSIN KATE Kate. [Seriously.l You see, I never thought he'd get out here — at such a little station. , Amy. What sort of eyes had he? Kate. [With enthusiasm.'] Oh, nice eyes. Amy. But what colour? Kate. [SpeaJcs slowly, not looking at Amy.] First I thought they were grey — then when he came nearer I saw they were deep blue, and when he leaned over — [Amy loohs shocked] over the lunch-basket and talked, they looked almost black — wonderful eyes. [Slowly and softly as if her thoughts had gone far.] Wonderful eyes. Amy. [Watching her.] Cousin Kate, I believe you're in love with him. Kate. [Brought hack suddenly; rises, really a little annoyed.) Now, how ridiculous. Just because he happened to be civil in a train — a man I've never seen before. I wish you wouldn't say such silly things. Amy. COUSIN KATE 25 Amy. ^Trying to conciliate her.1 I beg your pardon ■^I didn't mean to — Kate. I'm sorry I told you now ; I didn't mean to tell anyone. Not that there was the least reason to keep it secret. But I did think that being in love yourself, you'd be able to understand how one may be a little excited by meeting a man — and want to tell everyone about it — without being at all in love. Amy. But I always thought that being excited and wanting to talk about him — was a sign — Kate. 'Now, Amy, you'll make me quite angry if you keep on like that. I did think you'd have more sense when you are just going to be married. Amy. But I'm not going to'be married. Kate. [Electrified.'] What? You don't mean to tell me it's broken off? Amy. [Quietly.] He has left me. 26 COUSIN KATE Kate. [In a rush of pity and affection sits beside Amy and puts her arms about her.] Oh, you poor, dear child. And I've just been so horrid and cross to you. I'm sure you are well rid of him. But we'll get him back for you, someway or other. He shan't go away and leave you. How dare he — the monster ? Amy. [Distressed.l No — don't say that. It was my fault. Kate. Your fault? Amy. Yes. The others don't know that, and they are all saying such hard things about him, and I feel so guilty. [Kate loatches her a moment before she speaks. Kate. Well, whatever you did, he'd no right to run away just before the wedding and upset every- thing so. I don't thinkphe's a nice man. Amy. Oh, but it was my fault. Kate. Not at all. You couldn't have quarrelled unless he'd quarrelled, too. I've no patience with the COUSIN KATE 27 way men go on now. They think they can do anything they like because there are so many of us. I^il teacli one of them a lesson one of these days. Amy. But Heath wasn't like that. Kate. I don't know what he was like. I'm thankful to say I never saw him. Amy. I'll tell you how it was. You know Heath is an artist. Kate. That's no excuse. Amy. And he says artists can't take life seriously all the time. Kate. [Pleased and impressed with this remarhJ] He's quite right. [Annoyed to find herself pleased with anything he said.^ I suppose he read that in a book. Amy. It has often troubled me that he couldn't take life as seriously as I do. The other evening I spoke to him about it. I began by telling him the way I should like us to keep Sunday after we are married. He paints on Sundays. 28 COUSIN KATE Kate. [Unimpressed.] Does he? Amy. Yes, and I don't think it's right. And he is often flippant in a way I don't like. I spoke about that, too. Kate. [Looking away from Amy, speaTcs half to her- self.'] I'm beginning to feel rather sorry for poor Heath. Amy. And when he laughed at me I lost my temper. It is hard to be made fun of when you are trying to do what's right — isn't it ? Kate. Yes, I think it was nasty of him to make fun of you. What did he say? Amy. When I said I didn't like him to paint on Sunday — he said he'd only paint religious sub- jects. Kate. [Amused.] He's nice, isn't he? Amy. [Gravely.] But he said it to make fun. He wouldn't see that I was in earnest. COUSIN KATE 29 Kate. But He really is in love with you, isn't he? Amy. \_8miles.'\ Oh, yes, I'm sure he's very much in love with me. But don't you think I was right to speak out? Kate. Well, you know, Amy, it seems to me that if a man was nice and witty, and in love with me — I'd let him paint devils on Sunday if he wanted to. But still, I don't think that was any reason for his going away without a word. You must have said more than that. Amy. Well — Yes. He seemed to think he had only to give me a kiss and we could go on laughing and talking as if nothing had happened. But it was the last Sunday before our marriage and I couldn't help realising how serious it all was. I think so many people become selfish when they marry. They live only for each other and forget their higher duties. And I said I wanted ours to be an ideal marriage, and to make it that we ought to eliminate passion as much as possible. Kate. [Very gravely.'] Oh! What did he say to that? 30 COUSIN KATE Amy. He said I didn't know what I was talking about. Then I grew very angry, and I said rather more than I intended. I told him I couldn't marry him unless he changed, Kate. [As before,] Oh!! Amy. And he just walked out of the room. I haven't seen him since. I thought he'd come back. But he didn't. [Mrs. Spencer enters in her honnet; goes to Kate and greets her affectionately. Mrs. Spencer. Oh, Kate! I'm so glad you've come. Forgive me for not being here to welcome you, but I had to go to the Mothers' Meeting. Kate. You good little thing. Amy. I'll go and tell them to take your trunk up- stairs. [Takes the hag, dustcloah and umbrella from the table.'] Kate. Oh, thank you. [Produces a Icey from her COUSIN KATE 31 pocJcet.l Here's the key. [As she gives it to Amy she speaks aside to her with a glance to Mrs. Spencer, who has seated herself on the sofa and is drawing off her gloves.l Don't tell anyone about the man in the train. [Amy goes out. Mrs. Spencer. Has Amy told you? Kate. Yes. I'm so sorry. Mrs. Spencer. Oh, Kate, it's breaking my heart. I never felt so much in need of you as I do now. You will help us, won't you, dear? Kate. If I can — of course — but — tell me — Do people know? Mrs. Spencer. Only Mr. Bartlett. Kate. Who's he? Mrs. Spencer. A young clergyman who is taking our vicar's duty while he is abroad. 32 COUSIN KATE Kate. And what does he say? Mrs. Spencer. He says it may be all for the best. Kate. [Irritated.'] Oh ! ISTow, isn't that just like a curate? Mrs. Spencer. He isn't exactly a curate, dear. He's a locum tenens. Kate. Well, then — isn't that just the sort of thing a locum tenens would say? Do any real people know ? Mrs. Spencer. Only Bobby — and he only says he'd like to hill Heath. Kate. [AJfectionately.'] Oh, how sweet of Bobby. Mrs. Spencer. [Despondently. 1 But I suppose we can't do anything till we know where Heath is. Kate. Do you want him back? COUSIN KATE 33 Mrs. Spencer. Oh, I don't know, I never had a word to say against him before — but what can I think of him now? Kate. Everything I have heard of him is so charming. Mrs. Spencer. [With enthusiasm.'] Oh, he was so charm- ing — and so amusing ; he used to get me quite hysterical every Sunday night at supper. [Laughs.] You must get him to tell you that story about Miss Murphy and the Banshee. [They both laugh.] And he was so kind to us all, so attentive to me and so nice with Bobby — and his devotion to Amy was beautiful. Kate. It was a good match for Amy, wasn't it? Mrs. Spencer. Yes — You never thought me — a scheming woman, did you, Kate? Kate. [Gravely.] No, never. Mrs. Spencer. No, but still Heath happens to have a very good income, and he's very clever. They say 34 COUSIN KATE he's sure to be made an R. A. some day. And he took such a pretty old house near here — you know I wrote and told you about it. Kate. Oh, yes, of course. Mrs. Spencer. And how beautifully he was furnishing it — It's called Owlscot. [Pronounc& like " Ascot. "] Kate. Owlscot? Mrs. Spencer. Yes, because of the owls. Owls' cot, you know. Kate. {^Delighted.] Oh, are there owls in the gar- den? Mrs. Spencer. No, there aren't any, but Heath says it looks as if there ought to be, so he called it Owls' Cot. He said perhaps the owls would come if they saw it on the gate-posts. Kate. [Laughing. 1 I'm sure I should like Heath. Mrs. Spencer. Amy thought people would think the name COUSIN KATE 35 silly, so he said she could call it Owlscot, which isn't a bad sounding name for a house, do you think? Kate. No, I think it's delightful. Mrs. Spencer. Heath's full of funny little fancies like that, but he's kind and thoughtful, too. When I said I couldn't afford to send Bobby to a public school he asked if he might help with the expenses — and he did it so nicely. Kate. [With decision.'] Amy mustn't lose such a nice man as that. We'll get him back for her somehow. Mrs. Spencer. [Cheering up considerably.'] Oh, Kate, I knew it would be better when you came. Kate. Ah, but we haven't got him back yet. [She reflects before she speaks.] When did Amy become so good? Mrs. Spencer. [Simply.] She's always been good. Kate. Yes — but not as bad as this. 36 COUSIN KATE Mrs. Spencer. I fancy Mr. Bartlett has made her think more deeply. He's a very earnest man. Kate. l^Slaps her hands together.'] Then that locum tenens is at the bottom of it all. Mrs. Spencer. [LooJcs up, surprised.] All what? Kate. Has he been preaching sermons about the selfishness of married couples, and the elimina- tion of passion? Mrs. Spencer. [Still more surprised.] He gave us a very powerful sermon on that subject a few Sundays ago. Kate. [Nods her head.] That's where she got it from. I knew she didn't think of that herself. Sarah, that locum tenens is a bad man. Don't you let him come near the place again. [Jane enters. Jane. Mr. Bartlett, mum. [Mrs. Spencer and Kate are hoth start- led. Mr. Bartlett enters, carrying his COUSIN KATE 37 hat. Kate is perfectly composed. Mrs. Spencer is exceedingly embarrassed. Mrs. Spencer. [Confused.'] Oh, Mr. Bartlett, this is Cousin Kate. [Indicating Kate.] Miss Cousin Kate, I ought to say, I mean Miss — Kate. [Prompting her.] Curtis, dear, Curtis. Mrs. Spencer. Yes. I couldn't remember your name for an instant. This is Mr. — [Confused.] Now I've forgotten yours. Kate. [Comes to the rescue by cordially extending her hand to Mr. Bartlett^ as she says sweetly.] We were just speaking of you as you came in, Mr. Bartlett. Mrs. Spencer. [Trying to maJce things smooth.] Yes, and Mr. Bartlett has read some of your books, Kate. [Mr. Bartlett loohs embarrassed. Mrs. Spencer. [Seeing his embarrassment, becomes embar- rassed herself.] Oh ! 38 COUSIN KATE Kate. [Sweetly to Me. Bartlett.] You didn't like them, did you? A bishop once told me they ought to be publicly burnt. Mrs. Spencer. Oh, I don't think they are as bad as that. Kate. {^Quaintly to Mrs. Spencer.] Thank you, Sarah. Mrs. Spencer. But then, I don't know what they are about half the time. [Kate laughs and moves away. Bartlett. {Places his hat on the table, pausing to give importance to his speech.'\ I have called to tell you that Mr. Heath Desmond has come home. Mrs. Spencer. [Joyfully.] Oh, that is good news. Oh, Kate, he's come back. [To Mr. Bartlett.] Have you seen him? Bartlett. Yes, I have spoken to him. [He pauses and lool-s deliberately at Kate, who supposes she isn't wanted. COUSIN KATE 39 Kate. [To Mrs. Spencer as she goes towards the door.'} I'll go and take my things off. Mrs. Spencer. Don't go, dear. [Kate stops; Mrs. Spencer turns to Bartlett.] You can say anything before her. Now, tell us all about it. [Sitting on the sofa.] Sit down, Kate. [Kate sits down, watching Mr. Bartlett narrowly as he speal's. He sits rather reluctantly, addressing himself exclu- sively to Mrs. Spencer. Bartlett. I saw him enter his rooms, so I called, and taking the prerogative of the clergyman of the parish, I taxed him with his unaccountable disap- pearance. [A shade of irritation crosses Kate's face, Mr. Bartlett fpauses and looks at her. She returns his look, smiles, betraying no feeling of any sort. Mrs. Spencer. And what did he say? Bartlett. He said he would rather not discuss his affairs with me. 40 COUSIN KATE [Kate looks pleased. Mr. Bartlett pauses as before and looks at Kate. She returns his look as before. Mrs. Spencer. And so you — Bartlett. I had a duty to perform, and so I was not abashed by his rebuff. [Kate titters. Mr. Bartlett glares at her. She clears her throat and looks away.] I sketched briefly the distress he had caused in this household. Then I asked him if he intended to return. Mrs. Spencer. Yes, yes? Bartlett. He says he considers himself free, unless your daughter sends for him at once. Mrs. Spencer. {^Looks from one to the other."] Why? Bartlett. I promised to convey a message from her or from you. Mrs. Spencer. Well, Amy must write to him. I'll go and tell her. [Rises and goes towards the door.] COUSIN KATE 41 [Kate rises, prepared to follow Mrs. Spencer. Bartlett. [Rising.'] Excuse me. [Mrs. Spencer stops. He speaks importantly.] Have you decided what message to send ? Mrs. Spencer. He must have a note asking him to come, if that's what he's waiting for. Kate. Of course. Bartlett. Is there not a wiser alternative? [Bartlett looJcs at Kate, hoping she will go. Kate deliberately sits down, show- ' ing she intends to stay. Mrs. Spencer. [Comes toivards Mr. Bartlett.] I don't think I quite grasp your meaning. Bartlett. Well, then, is Mr. Desmond the man to trust your daughter to? I do not wish to say any- thing against his character, but he has always seemed to me a — a — frivolous man. And is not his present conduct a sign of inconstancy? 42 COUSIN KATE Your daughter is on the eve of taking perhaps the most important step in her life. Is it not well to pause while there is yet time? Mrs. Spencer. [Much perturbed; appeals to Kate.] What do you think, Kate? Kate. IColdly.^ Does it matter what anybody thinks except Amy? Mrs. Spencer. But of course it was very funny of Heath to run away like that, and he might do it again. Kate. Oh, Sarah! Bartlett. After I have delivered her message, it may be too late for her to retreat from her promise — with honour. Mrs. Spencer. [Looks at Kate, who makes no movement, then turns to Bartlett.] Perhaps you had better see Amy yourself. [Kate tries to attract the attention of Mrs. Spencer in order to stop her saying this. Mrs. Spencer doesn't notice Kate's movement.] You may be able to put it — more — forcefully than I can. COUSIN KATE 43 Bartlett. [Readily.'] I will most willingly interview her, if you wish, but before doing so I have some- thing to say to you which — it is impossible to say — before — a third person. [Stares at Kate. Kate rises, smiles at Mrs. Spencer, and goes out hy the window without looking round. Mr. Bartlett approaches Mrs. Spencer.] Bartlett. If Mr. Desmond deserts your daughter now, she will naturally feel humiliated. Mrs. Spencer. [Sorrowfully.] Oh, yes — can't you see? Bartlett. And as — I wish — to save her all the pain I can, and as I find her essential to my own hap- piness, I desire to tell her that if she releases herself from this engagement — she need not be humiliated — for I would then come forward and offer her — myself. Mrs. Spencer. That wouldn't be quite the same thing — would it? Bartlett. I think that she should know that she has this alternative before she communicates with Mr. Desmond. 44 COUSIN KATE Mrs. Spencer. [Duhiotisly.] I wish you'd let me see what Kate says. IHe looks momentarily uneasy, then re- covers himself. Bartlett. She is a stranger to me. Mrs. Spencer. Yes, yes — I see. Bartlett. As your daughter is so young and her present situation so delicate — I thought it was my duty to ask your permission before speaking to her. Mrs. Spencer. [Troubled.] I don't know whether I ought to let you see her or not. Bartlett. It cannot do her any harm to hear me. Mrs. Spencer. [Impressed hy this remarh.'] N'o. She isn't obliged to accept you, is she? Bartlett. Certainly not. COUSIN KATE 45 Mrs. Spencer. I suppose you'd better speak to her. If you'll wait here I'll send her to you. [Mrs. Spencer goes out. Kate enters with her hat in her hand. Both she and Bartlett feel constrained when they find themselves alone. They look at each other in turns before speaking. Kate places her hat on the table. Kate. \_Pleasantly.'] What very pleasant weather we are having. ■ Bartlett. I beg your pardon. Kate. [Clears her throat and speaks more distinctly.'] What very pleasant weather we are having. Bartlett. Oh, yes — but I think there'll be rain* soon. Kate. {Pleasantly.'] Possibly storms. [Smiles sweetly at him.] [She sits down, not looking at him. He looks at her uneasily before he speaks. 46 COUSIN KATE Baetlett. [Takes his hat.] Will you kindly tell Miss Spencer I will await her in the garden? Kate. [Pleasantly.] Yes — I'll tell her. Baetlett. Thank you. [He goes out by the window. As soon as he is out of sight, Kate jumps up, goes towards the ivindow and glances in the direction he has gone. Mrs. Spencer enters. Kate comes quickly towards her as she speaks. Kate. He's gone into the garden. Are you going to let him see her? Mrs. Spencer. I've just told Amy. Kate. Is he going to ask her to marry him? Mrs. Spencer. Kate — you've been listening? KIate. No, I haven't. COUSIN KATE 47 Mrs. Spencer. How else could you know? It's miraculous. Kate. Don't you think it's very dangerous to let her see him now? Heath has hurt her pride; she's smarting. Cant you remember how it felt at her age ? I'm so afraid she'll sacrifice the future to save the present. Mrs. Spencer. [Periurled.] But I've told Mr. Bartlett I'd send Amy to him. Kate. Send her to me first. [Amy enters. Mrs. Spencer. But how can I explain it to him ? Kate. [Glances at Amy, then says rapidly to Mrs. Spencer.] Don't explain it. Go and show him the nasturtiums or the lobelias or whatever's out. [Pushes Mrs. Spencer out at the window. Mrs. Spencer disappears. Amy. Mother said Mr. Bartlett wanted to see me. 48 COUSIN KATE Kate. Yes. He's waiting for you in the garden. He brought a message for you. Amy. From Heath — mother told me. Kate. What reply are you going to send? Amy. I don't know yet. Kate. Hadn't you better make up your mind before you go and see Mr. Bartlett? Amy. Mother said he had something very important to say to me. I think I had better hear what it is first. \^Going towards the window.l Kate. Your reply to Heath is more important. [Amy hesitates.'] You want to do what's right, don't you? Amy. [Hesitatingly.'] Yes. ['With conviction.] Yes — I do. Do you think I ought to forgive Heath? COUSIN KATE 49 Kate. [Quietly.'] I thought he had to forgive you? Amy. [After a pause, during which Kate watches her closely.] What message do you think I ought to send him? Kate. I think I should write and say you are sorry for what you said to him, and that you see now that it was a little piece of presumption for a young girl to talk that way to a grown-up man. [Amy turns and stares at Kate.] And ask him to forgive you because you are so young and inexperienced — and he will, because you are so pretty. Amy. But that is putting myself entirely in the wrong? Kate. Weren't you? Amy. No. I blame myself very much for losing my temper with him. But I can't take back what I said before. It isn't a question of what / wish — but of right and wrong. Kate. And are you sure that a young girl who has never been anywhere much or seen anything par- 50 COUSIN KATE ticular is the proper judge of what is right and wrong for a man ten years older than herself? And is all his goodness to go for nothing? Amy, dear, you'd be a fool to let that man go — and just think — he chose you — who bring him nothing but your little self — out of the whole world. Amy. Am I to thank him for loving me? Kate. Yes. You would if you realised how many girls there are who would make good wives and how few men who would make good husbands. Amy. But I can't give up my principles. I'm pre- pared to suffer for them. Kate. Well, don't be like most people who suffer for their principles, and make everybody else suffer for them too. If we want to marry we must be prepared to make compromises — Amy. It may be that I shall do my duty better singly. Kate. I'm sure you'll get into Heaven sooner by doing COUSIN KATE 51 your duty to your neighbour, than by being very good all by yourself. I mustn't urge you. I only want to save you from making the same mistake I made. I wouldn't make compromises, I demanded the perfect man. Now I know there isn't one. So I've had disappointment after dis- appointment, till I have to face the worst one of all — for our lives are empty if we aren't loved. A woman's life is so meaningless by itself. And I have a great deal in my life. I have a profession, I'm successful, I'm invited and wel- comed everywhere — but I'm lonely, Amy, — desperately lonely. I'd give it all up for a real home with a husband and children. And look how much worse it is for women with no object in life — no work and no children. I only want you to be happy, and not disappointed, like me. Amy. [Kisses Kate softly on the cJieeTc.'] I think I'd better write to him — and ask him to come back. Oh, Cousin Kate, you make me feel so small. [Kate puts her arms about Amy, who falls on her shoulder, weeping a little. Kate. [Pets herj a little overcome with emotion.'] I'm not very wise myself, dear, but I've knocked about so much I want you to be taken care of. Oh, it must be so beautiful to be taken care of. 62 COUSIN KATE [Amy goes to the writing-desk and sits, drying her eyes. Amy. I think I'll just write and tell Heath I don't know much. [Takes a sheet of paper and begins to write a noie.] Kate. Amy — Amy! Perhaps you had better go and see Mr. Bartlett before you write that letter. Amy. No, I'd rather not. I'm sure I'm doing right to ask Heath to forgive me. [Amy writes the letter. When she has finished it she turns to Kate.] Will this do? [She holds out the letter. Kate comes towards her, takes it and reads it as Amy addresses the envelope.'] Kate. That's very sweet. [Gives it hack to Amy, who puts it in envelope.'] Now lick it up. [Amy fastens it, then rises.] Mr. Bartlett said he would take your answer to Heath. Shall we go and give it to him? Amy. [Shyly giving letter to Kate.] You give it to him. I don't think I'll see him now. [Amy goes out. Kate marches towards COUSIN KATE 53 the window, waving the letter trium- phantly till she meets Mrs. Spencer coming in from the garden. Mrs. Spencer. Where's Amy? Isn't she coming? [Enter Mr. Bartlett, following Mrs. Spencer. Kate. No. [Showing the letter.'] This is her reply to Mr. Desmond. [Turns to Bartlett.] Which you so kindly offered to convey. [Gives the letter to Mr. Bartlett.] Mrs. Spencer. But isn't she going to see Mr. Bartlett? Kate. She asked me to deliver her letter for her. Mrs. Spencer. Oh ! [She turns to Bartlett with an embar- rassed smile.] Bartlett. I will take this to Mr. Desmond. Kate. Thank you. [Bartlett goes out. Kate "turns to Mrs. Spencer.] She's asked him to come back. s^:- ■■"•^.o*^ :4 •bV° ^ --.^>- '•*" ■"*- '^•'^'' ** * ^MSi • rS» v<^ ♦ f(CCs8 A** ^