PS 635 .29 C559 Copy 1 fmfMrMntrmmmnntnnmmmmnfnntfmiffMfm^ ^^ I KITTY'S TRIUMPH.! A Drama in Six Acts. BY MRS. MARY f. CLIFFORD. Entered aecordins to Act of Congress, in th(e year 1892, by Mrs. Mary J. Clitrord, in the office of tlie Librarian of Congress, Washington, D. C, I iiiUUiUiUiUiUiUiUiUiUiUiUiUlUiUiUiUiUiUiUilWiUUiUI? Thr <^ KITTY'S TRIUMPH. SCENE IN WOODS NEAR HOLYOKE. [mrS. MARY J. CLIFFORD.] ACT I. Enters Kitty. — Well, I've got here after a while and it I ^.- -Why little one what have I done to make you an- Kitty. — Yon made fun of me and you wont get another chance. (Throwing roses on floor.) There, you can take your old roses and give them to the girl you gave the others to, I ain't playing second fiddle not if I know it (Crying.) Dick. — Why Kitty I have not been making fun of you. Kitty. — Yes you have ! Dick. — (Attempts to take Kitty's hands. Kitty puts hands behind her.) Kitty. — You go away from me. Dick. — Kitty, will you tell me what you are crying about? Kitty. — No I wont, so there. Dick. — How then am I to know what you are angry about? Kitty. — Its.-no--matter-if--you-don't, you wouldn't care if you di-did. Dick. — You are mistaken Kitty, I care more than you KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 29 think. (Takes Kitty's hands.) Will you not tell me what caused those tears? Kitty. — Wipes eyes with dress. Dick. — You will spoil you dress Kitty. Kitty. — I don't care if I do. Dick. — Now Kitty do be reasonable, tell me just what grieves you, I can think of nothing I have done to deserve such treatment. Kitty. — Oh you can't, well you have got a short memory, I suppose you didn't buy two bouquets this' afternoon, and tell the clerk at the fiowerists to send one to another girl and you would take the other and give it to a girl that you had been flirting with, and you didn't tell him that one must have something to amuse themselves with? Oh no, of course you didn't. Dick. — Certainlv not, what put such an idea into youi' head? Kitty. — Some one told me you did. Dick — The person who told you that story lied. (Walking toward Dick.) Kitty. — I knew she was lying when she said it and I told her so. Dick. — Who told you this noncense? Kitty. — My cousin Carry. Dick. — (Reproachfully.) And you believed her. A7//'j.--No I didn't, that is, I was afraid — Oh dear! I thought perhaps it might be true. Dick. — And that was why you were angry. i?'//^j/.-— I wasn't mad, I only felt bad to think that you would do such a thing. Dick. — My darling, your woi'ds have given me courage to speak. Kitty do you love me ? Kitty. — Oh dear ! What do you ask such a question as that for? Dick. — Because I wish to know. Kitty. — Then I will tell you, I do love you Dick, more 30 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. than any one else in the world, even Aunt Rachel, and I like her awful well. Dick. — You have made me very happy, and now I will ask you one more question, will you be my wife? Kitty. — (Nods head.) (Dick puts ring on Kitty's finger.) Dick. — There my love, I think I am entitled to a kiss. Kitty. — (Stepping back.) Oh my ! I wouldn't let you kiss me for a farm. Dick.—\^\\y not? Kitty. — Some one might see you, but I will look and if there is no one around you can kiss me. (Kitty peeps through trees.) There ain't anybody looking Dick. Dick. — Then come to my arms. Kitty. — What ain't worth coming after ain't worth having. Dick. — (Crossing stage.) Very well, if you will not come to me I will come to you. (Attempts to emprace Kitty. Enters Bingo, Kitty runs to oposite side of stage.) Bingo. — Gosh Kit, what makes your face so red? you look as if you had been frying doughnuts. Kitty. — I didn't know my face was red. Bingo. — Well it is. (Aside.) It seems to me I smell a rat, I guess I'll get out of this, it looks as if my room will be better than my company. (To Kitty.) I want to see you by and by Kitty, I'll be around again, (Exit Bingo.) Kitty. — I bet a cent he saw you Dick Moreland, and you shan't kiss me again. Dick. — But my dear, I haven't kissed you yet. Kitty. — Well ain't you going to? Dick. — I will if I get a chance. Kitty. — Well come and do it quick before any one else comes. (Dick goes to Kitty's side.) Now my darling — (Enters Carry, Anna and Florence. (Kitty screams, runs away from Dick. Florence. — Why Kitty, what is the matter? Kitty. — Did you see that bumble bee flying around? I thought he was going to sting me. (Aside.) Oh what a whopper. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 31 (Dick takes Kitty's hand.) Ladies allow me to present the future Mrs. Moreland. Florence. — (Embracing Kitty.) So you are really going to be my sister, I am very glad. Kitty. — So am I. Anna. — (To Carry.) I told you so, I knew Mr. Moreland would marry Kitty as soon as I heard he was coming home. (To Dick.) Mr. Moreland allow me to congratulate you. (Hand shaking.) Kitty. — You see cousin Caddy you didn't make anything by lying about those roses, did you ? Carry. — Why goosie I was only in fun. Kitty. — That's all right but I don't believe it all the same. Carry. — Very well my dear, you need not believe it if you don't want to. (Carry walks to oposite side of stage.) My scheme has failed but I will not give him up, Kitty Farnsworth shall never be his wife if there is any v/ay under heaven I can prevent it. (Enters dancers, after dancing cur- tain falls. ACT IV. scene: main street, Springfield. Three years supposed to have elapsed between Act Three and Four. Enters Howard Grayson and Dick Moreland from oposite directions. Dick. — Hello VVorthington. f Hand shaking.) Grayson. — Why Dick my boy is this you? Dick. — This is me sure, or rather what is left of me. Grayson. — You are a stranger around these parts. Dick. — I am somewhat, I have been traveling most of the time since I saw you, I have been rather homesick for the past two weeks, so I thought I would run home and see the folks. How has the world used you since our last meeting? 33 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Grayson. — To tell the truth the world has not used me very well. Dick. — I thought you looked rather dejected, what's the trouble, been disappointed in love? Graysojt. — That's about the size of it. I don't mind tell-' ing you Dick, if you will promise not to repeat it. Dick. — Have no fear my friend I am capable of keeping a secret. Grayson. — Some time ago I fell in love with a young girl, believing her to be fancy free I became very attentive to her, as she always seemed pleased with my attentions I believed my love was returned. You can imagine my disappointment when upon asking her to be my wife she told me that al- though she loved me she could not be my wife, for she had promised to be the wife of another. vShe had become eno-a"-- ed when very young and did not know her own mind. I begged of her to break her engagement with this man but it was no use, she declared she would marry this man if it broke her heart. Dick. — I am sorry for you Henry, I wish I could help vou but I don't see as I can. Is this young lady anyone I :im acquainted with? Grayson. — Yes indeed, why, she is your sisters most inti- mate friend. Dick. — I have been away from home so much lately that I hardly know who Florence's friends are so if you wish to in- lighten me on the subject you will have to tell me the lady's nama. Grayson — Why, it is Kitty Farnsworth to be sure. Z)/c,^.— (Staggers back, puts hands to head.) My gad ! Grayson. — What is the matter Dick, are you ill? Dick.— A trifle faint that is all. Did I understand you to say that Kitty did not love the man she is engaged to? Gray so ft.— Th?i\. is what she told me. Dick, — 'Tis enough, she shall be free ! Grayson.— \Yhii\. under the sun have you to do with setting her free. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 33 Dick. — Everything! It is I whom she promised to marry more than three years ago. I have been absent most of the time since trying to find out where her mother and father were married, I have looked over hundreds of marriage records but thus far have failed. I shall interest myself in her affairs no longer, I was on my way to her home when I met you, I am glad you told me about it, I shall not call upon her but shall return to the hotel and write her a letter telling her she is free to marry whom she will, I love her too well to stand between her and happiness. Grayson. — I am sony for this, I would not have told you for the world had I known. But don't you think you are act- ing rather foolish my boy? Dick. — Foolish^ by no means ! Do you think I would lead an unwilling bride to the alter? Not if I know it. I shall go away and shall not return until I have torn her image from my heart. (Giving hand to Grayson.) I am going now and although you are my rival I can truthfully say that I bear you no ill feelings Good bye and may heaven bless you both. Grayson. — Good bye Dick, I am sorry you are going away again. Dick. — It is better so, ^Exit Dick.) Grayson. — What a noble fellow ! I must confess that I am ashamed of myself, I would give considerable if I were like him. No wonder Kitty loves him. What a stunning blow it will be to her when she receives his letter. Ah, well, what is done cannot be undone, a fellow must look out for himself no mattes what happens. (Exit Grayson.) SCENE : PRIVATE ROOM AT GRAYSON HOUSE. Enters Grayson. — What a miserable sinner I am to be sure. No doubt by this time Kitty has received Dick's letter, and is undergoing the greatest suffering of her young life, but never mind I will be on hand to comfort lier by-and-by. Many a heart has been caught on the rebound. (Takes glass 34 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. bramiy.) And who knows what nnay happen in this case. (Consults watch.) I wonder why the boys don't come. (Enters Bingo conc:'als himself behinJ table.) Graysotz. — I am very much afraid we shall have no time to rehearse that piece of music before we go to the club. I don't believe the bovs would think so much of me as they do if they knew I murdered uncle Grayson. That smothering business was a clever scheme. The old fool brought it on himself, when he made a new will giving most of his fortune to his granddaughter he sealed his own doom. I think the old man must have found out that my character was not as good as it might be. ( Going to desk.) But its all right the marriage certificate and the will are safe in my possession, and the old man is six fiot under ground, and as dead men tell no tales, I have nothing to fear from that source, but it is not a very comfortable feeling to know that one is guilty of murder, not that I am afraid of being found out. (Hears a noise.) What was that? (Listens.) Confound it, I am getting as nervous as an old woman, I do wish the boys would come: I think I will take a peep at the papers and see if they are all right. (Takes papers from desk.) They are here, and here the}^ will stay. Bingo. — (Aside.) You don't want to be too sure of that. (Bell rings.) Grayson. — Ah, they are coming at last. (Enters Grayson's friends.) Hello boys, I thought you were never coming. Leader. — We are a trifle late, so we had better proceed to business at once, we must have this piece as near perfect as possible. Gray.yo« —Then we will begin. (Singing by quartette.) Have a drink boys. Leader. — Thank you, don't care if we ({o. (Boys take a drink.) Will you go with us to the club. Grayson. — I should be pleased to. (Exit quartette. Bingo comes from hiding place.) Bingo. — Well by gum, if that chap ain't given himself away bad, I always thought he was a wicked critter, but I KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 35 didn't think he was bad enough to kill anyone. He thinks he wont get found out but I guess he will change his mind before I get through with him, he'll get his neck stretched one of these days and don't you forget it. (Enters Nora.) Nora. — I never did see what a mess of dirty tumblers there is around this house, Master can't breath unless he takes a glass of brandy, I do wish — (catches sight of Bingo.) Goodness sakes how you frightened me ! why didn't you tell me you were here ? Bhtgo. — Because you talked so fast I couldn't get a word iu edgeways. Nora. — Well who are you and what do you want? Bingo.- -I want to see your master, he has gone out for a few minutes, but he will be right back. Say, can't you get me something to eat, I am as hungry as a bear. Nora. — To be sure, I don't like to have any one around hungry. (Exit Nora.) Bingo. — There I've got rid of her, and now for the papers (opening desk) He forgot to lock his desk, so much the bet- ter. They are here and (putting papers in pocket) here they will stay, until I give them to Kitty. Now I guess I will take a drink of brandy. (Enters Grayson.) Graysoft. — What the devil are you doing here in my private room, get out of this. (Tykes Bingo by trousers and collar, throws him out. Enters Nora with tray. Collision.) Who was that man, Nora. — I don't know sir, he said he wanted to see you. Grayson. — Well, call him back, I will find out what he wants. (Exit Nora. Enters Armstrong.) Grayson. — Hello old man, where have you kept yourself lately? Armstrong. — In Holyoke part of the time. I heard something at the hotel this morning that I thought you might like to know, so I came at once to tell you, you are suspected. Grayson. — Suspected of what? Armstrong. — Why, stealing the marriage certificate to be sure, they are going to search this house so if you have any 36 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. thing around that you don't want any one to see you had bet- ter take care of it. Grayson. — I have nothing but a few papers and I will put thenn into safe keeping. (Opens draw.) Great heavens thev are gone ! Armstrong. — Gone ! What do you mean? Grayson. — I mean that I have been robbed, the marriage certificate and my uncle's last will are gone, fool that I was not to destroy them while I had a chance. Ah ! I have it. That fellow that was here when I came in must have been a detective. God heavens I am ruined ! Armstrong-. — Don't be too sure of that Grayson, there may be some one else who is trying for the Grayson millions. Grayson. — Please explain yourself. Armstrong-. — There may be some one who knows that your cousin Kitty should be mistress of this house, If there is such a person he will doubtless try to win Kitty for his wife, should he succeed, all he would have to do would be to pro- duce those papers and Kitty would get the money and your name would be Dennis. Then again, perhaps some one has stolen them and will make you pay a good price for them , see? Grayson. — You have a great head Armstrong, but I'll tell you what it is, that girl must be put out of the way, do you understand ? Artnstrong. — I understand, but how are you going to do it! Grayson. — You will do it. Armstrong .— \ will if there is money enough in it. Grayson. — I will give you $5,000 as soon as you bring me proof that this girl is out of the way. Armstrong.— Qoodi, that girl will never see another sun- rise. I will be off and lay my plans at once. Grayson. — What are your plans? KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 37 Ar77istong. — I will see you later. (Exit Armstrong and Grayson.) SCENE : IN WOODS NEAR HOLYOKE. Enters Kitty. — This must be the place but it is so dai'k I can scarely see, I wish the moon would come out from be- hind the clouds. I can't think why Joe wished me to meet him in sue . a lonely place at such a late hour, I don't believe he has done anything wrong, yet, why should he be afraid to come to me, poor fellow, I wish he would come 1 am grow- ing nervous. I wonder what I done with his note. (Moon comes out.) Ah ! now I can see. (Reads Bingo's note.) Dear Friend Kitty : I am in a heap of trouble, meet me in the woods at the old playgrounds at ten o'clock tonight. I must see you, you are the only friend I have, and I know you will come. I would not ask you to come if I could come to you. Do not let Mrs. Cameron know where you are going. That chap that brought this note is a good fellow but he can't help me. I shall wait until eleven o'clock for you, and for the sake of old times I hope you will not disappoint your old friend Bingo. Kitty. — Poor fellow, I fear he has not been doing right, but I will help him if I can. What would Aunt Rachel say if she knew what I have done, I dare say she would think me dredfully imprudent, however, I shall tell her when it is all over. I do wish Joe would come, it is growing late. (Enters Armstrong. ) Armstrong. — Here you are my pretty Kitty, right on hand like a picked up dinner. Kitty. — Who are you sir.'* and how dare you address me thus? Armstrong. — Well I'll be bio wed, if you ain't a cool one, some girls would be frightened out of her wits. Kitty. — I am not easily frightened. Was it you who de- livered Joe's letter this morning? Armstrong. — I recon it was Miss. 38 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Kitty. — Well, where is he ? and why did he wish to see me ! ylr;«j-/;'o«^.--I may as well tell you one time as anoiher, Joe Nichols never saw that letter. Kitty. — Tr.en who wrote it? Armstro?zg.- —\ did. Kitty. — What was your object in writing such a letter? aiul wliy did you not sign your own name to it? Aruiitrong. — My object in writing that letter was to get }()u away from your friends, and my reason for not signing my own name was you would not come to meet a perfect stranger in such a lonely place, so I signed it Bingo, I knew that would bring you ! Kitty. — Well, now that you have succeeded in bringing me to this lonely spot, what do you propose to do. Armstri..ng. — (Producing knife.) I am going to kill you. Kitty. — Are you, indeed ! I think I shall have something to say about that. Armstrong. — Spunky by gosh, but spunk wont save you, you have got to die. But 1 must say its a darned shame to kill such a girl. Do you see this knife? I am going to cut your throat from ear to ear. Kitty. — You will have a good time doing it sir. Armstrong. — Well what hdve ^oxa to say before you leave tills world ? Kitty. — I don't think I shall leave the world just yet. Ar7nstrong, — Oh you don't ! Young lady do you realize where \ ou are ? Kitty. — I realize that I am half a mile from any dwelling house and neariv a quarter of a mile from the main road, I might scream until I was black in the face and I should not be hvard, still I am not afraid of vuu. Armstrong. — I have heard enough of your lip. Whv don't you get down on your knees and beg for mercy, you are in my p iw< r. Kitty. — I would not beg for mercy if 1 knew I should not live ten niinutes. You asked me a few moments ago what I KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 39 had to say, I will tell you, you are a cowardly villian, capable I believe of committing any crime, but I do not fear you. When you enticed Kitty Farnsworth into these woods with the intention of putting her out of the way you did not know what kind of a girl you had to deal with. I am not timid like most of my sex as you will find out before I get through with you. I am ready now, do your worst, coward that you are. Armstrong. — You young she devil, I'll make you hold your tongue. (Advancing with knife uplifted.) Die! Jesibel ! Kitty. — (Producing revolver.) Stand back! I am not ready to die ! (Curtain falls.) ACT V. STREET SCENE. Enters Grayson. Enters Armstrong from oposite direc- tiori. Ar77istrong. — Hello Grayson, I was just going tc- your house. Grayson. — Well, what have you to say for yourself, have you brought me the proof that the girl is out of the way? Armstrong. — I've brought you nothing, she is altogether too spunky for me Grayson. — How did you go to work? Ar?nstrong. — I wrote a letter signing it Bingo, asking her to come to a place in the woods near Holyoke. She believing Bingo to be in trouble went to meet him, and met me instead. I had a knife, thinking a pistol shot might attract attention, as soon as she saw the knife and found out my intentions her eyes fairly flashed fire and she gave me the worst tongue lash- ing I ever got in my life. When I was about to plunge the knife into her she leveled a revolver at my head and from the expression in her eyes I thought it was about time I was get- ting out. Grayson. — Armstrong you are a coward ! 40 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Armstrong. — That's what she said, but I should Hke to have seen you in my place. You ought to have seen her mount her horse ; my, but she is a daisy ! The last I saw of her she was riding towards Springfield as if the devil was after her. Grayson. — The little tiger. What on earth am I to do Armstrong? Arffistrong-. — Marry her; by jove I would if I could. Can't you think of some way that you could get her to marry you, couldn't you make her think that Dick Moreland is married or going to be, and work upon her pride in such a v,iay that she will be willing to do most anything rather than have people think that he went back on her? Grayson. — By George ! I think I can do it, come along and have a drink then I will go home and write a letter. (Armstrong takes Grayson's arm, go off singing, "We have both been there before, many a time, many a time.") scKNE : MRS. Cameron's sitting room. Kitty sits in chair with head bowed. Enters Mrs. Came- ron. j\lrs. Ca7neron. — What is the matter Kitty? you have done nothing but mope ever since yesterday afternoon. Now tell me what troubles you. Kitty. — (Raising head.) I don't feel very well Aunt Rachel, I did not sleep well last night. Mrs, Cameron. — Have you told me all Kitty; I am afraid it is something more than a sleepless night. Why, child you look as if you had cried your eyes out ! Kitty. — I will tell you sometime, but not now. Please leave me Aunt Rachel, I want to be alone. Mrs. Cai7ieron.- —I will not leave you child, I have promised to be a mother to you and so far as I am able I shall keep my promise. (Kneeling beside Kitty.) Now tell me your trouble, can you not trust me Kitty ? Kitty. — I can trust you but I had rather not tell yoii, I know you would think me silly. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 41 Mrs. Catneron. — I think I can guess the cause of your trouble. You received a letter yesterday afternoon, I think he must have disappointed you about coming home, am I not right? Kitty, — You are right, I did receive a letter from Dick and he has broken his engagement, and oh Aunt Rachel he has broken my heart ! Mrs. Cameron. — My dear what do you mean? A'zV/'j/.- -(Giving letter to Mrs. Cameron.) Read that letter. (Mrs. Cameron reads letter.) Dear Miss Farns worth : I have recently learned that our engagement has been a mistake, therefore I give you your freedom, you are free to marry whom you will. Doubtless you will be glad to be re- leased from a bond that must have been very distasteful to you. Should we ever meet again I trust it will be as friends. I hope you will be happy and sometime think of your old friend. Dick. Mrs. Catneron. — I don't know what to make of it, I am sure Dick loved you ! There must be some mistake. Kitty. — There is no mistake Aunt Rachel, it is plain enough he has cast me off. Perhaps he has found some one whom he likes better than I. Mrs. Cafneron. — I cannot believe Dick would cast you off without some good reason. I wish I could see him, I would at least find out why he has broken his engagement. Kitty. — Please do not say any more about it, it will do no good. (Kitty bows head.) Mrs. Cameron. — My poor child, is there anything I can do for you? (Stroking Kittv's head.) Kitty. — There is nothing Aunt Rachel only leave me for a little while I want to think. Mrs. Camero?i. — Poor child ! Poor child ! (Exit Mrs. Cameron. Enters Grayson.) Kitty. — (Rising from seat.) Good evening Mr. Worthing- ton. (Giving hand.) Grayson. — I hope you will pardon me Miss Farnsworth, but I have come on a very unpleasant errand. I received a 42 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. lettei- today from one whom I always believed to be a man of honor, but his letter has proved him to be a scoundrel. Shall I read it? Kitty. — Who is it from? Grayson. — From Richard Morelaud. Kitty. — You may read it. (Grayson reads letter.) Wilbrahani. Dear Friend Worthington : I suppose you will call me a villain c-r some pet name equally as complimentary when I tell you that I have broken my engagement with Kitty Farnsworth, but the fact is I have met a young lady here that Kitty could not hold a candle to. She is what I call beautiful, besides being an heiress. I know that you will think that I have not acted honorable toward Kitty, but do not condemn me until you have seen my bride. I am to be married privately in a few days. I intend to surprise the folks at home, so you must not let them know that I have written to you. I suppose it will be rather rough on Kitty, but it can't be helped, perhaps she will transfer her affections to you, when she finds she cannot have me, I know you are fond of her old boy and would be more worthy of her than I. Remember this is strictly confidential. I shall be in Springfield in a few days and you will see if I have made a mistake in my choice of a wife, until then adeau. Your Friend Dick. Kitty. — Will you allow me to see the letter Mr. Worthing- ton? Grayson. — Certainly. (Kitty examines letter.) Kitty. — There is no mitake, it is his hand writing. Grayson. — I am sorry for you Kitty, I should not have read this letter to you, biit I have a plan and I think you will agree to it. You know that I have loved you ever since I have known you and if you will become my wife I will take you away at once, then let Dick Moreland bring his bride if he will. If you are my wife and far away people cannot point you out as Dick Moreland's discarded love. There are many who will be glad to know that Dick has thrown you over, your cousin Carry will rejoice over your trouble. Now Kitty KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 43 will you allow them to laugh at and pitty you when you can avoid it by becoming my wife. Kitty. — Do not tempt me Mr. Worthington, it would be wrong for me to marry one mau when I love another. Groyi-ow. —And you still love that miserable scamp after the way in which he has treated you? Kitty. — God help me, I do, I shall always love him, no matter what happees. He was my first love, and he shall be my last ! Grayson. — How foolish you are ! Do you think you can bear it? Kitty. — I can bear anything now. Graysoit. — You think you can, but I tell you you cannot, how do you suppose you would feel if you should meet Dick Moreland and his wife face to face ? Kitty. — Mr. Worthington, I beg of you drop this subject, you will drive me mad ! I cannot bear to think of it. Grayson. — But my dear girl you will be obliged to think of it a great many times. Now listen to me. There is no one in Springfield who knows of this affair except you and I, now if you marry me tonight we can leave Springfield at midnight, in the morning we will be miles away ; of course every one will be surprised when they hear we are married, then when Dick comes here with his wife you will not be here to be pittied and laughed at as I have said. Now tell me what you think of my plan. Kitty. — I do not love you Mr. Worthington. Grayson. — I do not ask for love Kitty, I was only thinking of your interests, besides, you would learn to care for me in time, I will be very kind to you, your slightest wish shall be gratified, consent to be my wife and you will never regret it. Kitty. — Let me think. (Kitty paces floor ) Oh, what shall I do ! I believe I shall go mad ! Oh, how could he do it. He never loved me ; had he cared for me he would not have cast me off. I cannot bear it ! Oh, I cannot bear it ! (Kitty falls into chair weeping.) Grayson. — My poor Kitty, I wish I could bear it for you ; 44 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. heaven knows I would bear anything for you, I love you so well. Kitty. — Mr. Worthington, I wish from the bottom of my heart that I could return your love, but I cannot. Grayson. — You could learn to love me if you would only try. (Kitty paces floor.) Kitty. — (Aside. — Why not marry him and make him happy, I am sure he cares for me ; I may as well make him happy if I can for I never expect to be happy again.) Mr. Worthington I have decided to be y^our wife and may God for- give me if I am doing wrong. Grayson. — (Attempts to embrace Kitty,) My darling you have made me very happy. Kitty. — (Steps back.) Remember I do not love you. Grayson. — I will try and not forget my dear. Shall I go after a clergyman at once ? Kitty. — Any time you please, I am ready. Grayson. — Then I will go, I will be back soon. (Exit Grayson. Enters Mrs. Cameron.) Mrs. Cameron. — Are you still here Kitty, I met Mr. Worthington in the hall a few minutes ago, he seemed to be in a great hurry, he also seemed very much elated about something, if I did not know I should think he had proposed and been accepted. Kitty. — That is just what happened Aunt Rachel, I am to become Mrs. Henry Worthington this very evening, Mr. Worthington has gone for a clergyman. Mrs. Cameron. — (drops into chair.) Why Kitty Farns- worth, what do you mean? Kitty. — I mean just what I say Aunt Rachel, I am going to be married this very night. Dick Moreland has thrown me over and I shall marry Henry Worthington. Mrs, Cameron. — But you do not love him Kitty. — He knows it. Mrs. Cameron. — Why not wait? I am sure it would come out all right, why not wait a short time, you know nothing of this man, he may be a villian for aught you KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 45 know. Kitty I beg of you to give up this foolish marriage, n o good will come of it. Kitty. — It is too late now Aunt Rachel, I have promised to be his wife, and I shall keep my word. Mrs. Cameron. — You are not yourself to-night Kitty, will you for my sake postpone this marriage until morning at least? Kitty. — I cannot Aunt Rachel, when morning dawns we shall be miles and miles away. We are to take the midnight express, I don't know just where we shall go and I don't care so long as I get away. I will write and tell you the reason I have taken this step. Mrs. Cafneron. — (Aside. — She is as stubborn as a mule.) My dear, will nothing induce you to give up this marriage? Kitty. — Nothing Aunt Rachel, my mind is made up. A'frs. Cameron. — (Pacing floor.) Dear! Dear! What am I to do. Kitty think of your mother's hasty marriage, think — Kitty. — Hush, they are coming. (Enters Grayson and clergyman.) Grayson. — Ah, good evening Mrs. Cameron, I suppose Kitty has told you that we are going to be married. Mrs. Cameron. — I fear she will regret this hasty marriage, I cannot think why she should take this step. Grayson. — We will explain later. The Clergyman is in a hurry so we will proceed (To Kitty.) Are you ready my dear? Kitty. — I am ready. (The marriage ceremony begins. Mrs. Cameron sits in chair weeping.) Clergyman. — Henry Worthington will you take this woman to be your lawful v/edded wife, etc. Grayson. — I Will. Enters Bingo. — (Points revolver at Grayson's head.) I bet you five dollars you wont if I can stop it. Clergyman. — What does this mean? Bingo. — It means that this ceremony has gone as far as it is going to. Grayson. — Go on with the ceremony. 46 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Bingo. — If he does he will be a dead man. Kitty. — Joseph, I am ashamed of you ! Bingo. — So be I ashamed of you, if I wanted to get mar- ried very bad I would marry a man if I were you, instead of a thing like that. (Pointing to Grayson.) Kitty. — I am surprised to hear you speak in such a manner to Mr. Worthington. Bingo. — Mr. Worthington be hanged ! His name ain't Worthington no more than mine is, his name is Howard Grayson and he is the biggest rascal out side of states prison, but he wont be long I can tell you. Grayson. — Man ! What do you mean ? Bingo. — Oh, you will find out soon enough, so don't worry. The hangman will have a job one of these days. Grayson. — I hope you do not believe all this nonsense Kitty. Kitty. — I think it will bear investigation. Grayson. — Why Kitty, I am surprised to think you should be influenced by that fool. Why I don't believe he knows what he is talking about. - Bingo. — (Shaking fist in Grayson's face.) Don't you call me a fool, you good for nothing scoundrel or I will break every bone in your miserable carcass. Grayson. — I think we have had enough of this nonsense. Mrs. Cameron shall I put this lunatic out.? Mrs. Ca?neron. — No! He shall stay. Grayson.— {LsiUgKing.) Then you believe him too. Mrs. Cameron. — I have no reason to doubt his statement. Grayson. — Kitty you promised to be my wife, are you go- ing to keep your promise? Kitty. — I promised to marry Henry Worthington, and as that is not your name I don't feel bound to keep my promise. Grayson. — I see plainly that it is useless to deny this charge, but believe me ladies this man is laboring under a great mistake. (To Bingo.) I will make you suffer for this. Bingo.- -Be you going to have me arrested ? Grayson. — I think I shall. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 47 Bhigo. — All right, you wont have to go far for an officer, I got one all ready. (Bingo goes to door. Enters officer.) Bingo. — Officer there is your man. (Pointing to Grayson.) Officer. — Howard Grayson you are my prisoner, you are charged with the murder of Leonard Grayson. Grayson. — I thought it was settled that my uncle died a natural death. Officer. — It was settled that your uncle died not from the effiects of poison, but it has since come to light that he was smothered, and you sir are his murderer ! Grayson. — (Falls into chair.) Great God ! My sins have found me out ! Bingo. — You are also charged with stealing Kitty Farns- worth's mother's marriage certificate and Leonard Grayson's last will and testament. (Gives papers to Kitty.) Here they are Kit, maybe folks wont think I am such a fool now, I've been working on this case for three years. It took me a long time to work it up but I got there after a while. Well Kitty don't you want them? Lord knows I've worked hard enough to find them. Kitty. — Where did you find them Joseph ? Bingo. — I found them in that fellow's private desk. Officer. — Come Grayson have you gone to sleep, I can't stay here all night waiting for you, come along. (Officer leads Grayson from i^oom. Kitty falls fainting to floor. Mrs. Came- ron lifts her head from floor.) Mrs. Cameron. — Thank heaven she is saved from being the wife of a murderer ! Bingo. — (Runs from stage.) Water! Water! Some one bring some water. (Curtain Falls.) ACT VI. SCENE : DRAWING ROOM OF GRAYSON MANSION. Enters Kitty. — What a world of sorrow and suffering this is. Those who seem to have everything to make them 4$ KITTY'S TRIUMPH. happy are often times the most miserable, and this is true in my case. My friends come here and congratulate me on my good fortune and tell me that I must be very happy. They do not stop to think that there are things that money cannot buy. They tell me that I have been very ill, that for weeks I lingered at deaths door, and only the most careful nursing saved my life. I wish they had let me die, there is nothing in tills world that makes life worth living, but I suppose I must live on and appear gay and happy though my heart is break- ing. How I wish I could forget the miserable past! but I cannot, it is ever fresh in my memory. Oh if Dick had only remained true how different everything would seem, I should be so happy, as it is I am the most miserable of God's creat- urers. I wish I were dead ! Oh I wish I were dead ! (Throwing herself into chair. Enters Mrs. Cameron.) Mrs. Cameron. — Crying again Kitty? Kitty. — No, Aunt Rachel, I was only tkinking. Do you not think receptions are stupid things? Mrs. Cameron. — By no means, I think they are delightful. What can be more pleasing than to meet so many of one's friends in this way, I am sure you will enjoy it besides it is a duty you owe society. Kitty. — A very disagreeable duty. I am not fond of socie- tv ; I had much rather be alone, but as you say, it is a duty I owe society and I must open my house and give receptions, five o'clock teas, and so on, and smile upon people whom I would rather not speak to. Aunt Rachel I hate society. Mrs. Cameron. — You are morbid my dear, I wish for my sake you would try to be happy, it grieves me to see so sad an expression on the face of one so young, I wish there was something I could do to make you happy. Kitty. — You have done too much for me already. How can I ever repay you for your watchful care over me during my illness. Mrs. Camerotz. — My dear Kitty all I ask is to see you hap- py again. Kitty.--That is impossible, I shall never be happy again. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 49 Mrs. Cameron.- -This is all nonsense Kitty. (Enters Nora with letter.) Nora. — A letter for Miss Farnsworth. Kitty. — Thank you Nora. (Exit Nora.) I wonder who it is from. Mrs. Cameron. — Why not open it and find out? Kitty. — A very good idea. (Kitty reads letter.) Charlestown, Mass., Sept. 20th. Dear Cousin Kitty : The die is cast, I have received my sentence. On the fifth of next February I shall be hanged ; I have done you a great wrong Kitty, and so far as I am able I wish to make it right. It was I who caused Dick Moreland to break his en- gagement, I made him believe that you were in love with me, and he being an honorable fellow never thought of doubting me. It was I who vvrote the letter that I read to you on the night of my arrest, I copied his hand writing so cleverly that even you were deceived. I have written to Dick explaining all; he will doubtless be with you soon. I hope you will forgive me for the sorrow I have caused you, and may your life be a long and happy one. Your erring cousin, Howard Grayson. Kitty. — Oh ! Aunt Rachel do you think he has told the truth? Oh, it seems too good to be true. Mrs. Cameron. — I can see no reason why Howard Gray- son should wish to deceive you now. Kitty. — I can scarcely realize that he is coming back, but what if he does not come after all. Mrs. Cameron. — He will come, never fear. T always wondered why Dick should leave you, loving you, as he did. I never liked Howard Grayson, and after I found out what a villain he was I suspected that he had something to do with Dick's breaking the engagement and I intended to ask Dick as soon as I had an opportunity, but now it will not be necessary. And now tell me dear, are you happy? Kitty. — Happy ! Oh Aunt Rachel, I am the happiest girl in the world ! so KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Jlfrs. Cameron. — (Kissing Kitty.) I am very glad to hear you say that my dear, I think you will not have long to wait for the return of your love, I should not be surprised if he came this evening. Kitty. — Oh ! Aunty, I hope he will. Mrs. Cameron. — I am going to the dressing room a few minutes. I will be back soon. (Exit Mrs. Cameron. Enters Bingo.) Kitty. — I am so glad to see you Joseph. Bingo. — Me too. (Hand shaking.) Only I do wish you would call me by the old name, I like that better. Kitty. — Then I will call you Bingo if it pleases you. What does Anna call you? Bittgo. — (Scratching head.) Hanged if I know. Say Kit, what about Anna, who cares what she calls me, I'm sure I don't. (Looking very bashful.) Kitty. — (Laughing.) My dear friend I know all about it, I know that you have loved Anna for a long time and I do not wonder at it for she is indeed worth loving, and I know that she is not indifferent to you. In solving this mystery of the missing will and the marriage certificate and also bring- ing my grandfather's murderer to justice you have made your- self a hero in the estimation of more than one person and I am sure that Anna cares for you, as for me I wish you to look upon me as a sister, but for you I should never have come into possession of my fortune. Now Bingo, as I am to be your sister allow me to give you a little sisterly advice. I have millions of dollar at my command more than' I know what to do with and I wish to make you a present, I have already made out a check (producing paper) which I wish you to except, for although money is not everything you will find it very convenient, and I would advise you to go to college. Bingo. — Me go to college? Kitty. — Yes you go to college, you will find that without an education you can do nothing, besides Anna would think a great deal more of you if you were educated. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 51 Bitigo. — (Looking at check.) Then I guess I will go. Why Kit, ain't you made a mistake? How much money did you intend to give me? Kitty. — Does not the check call for $50,000? Bingo. — Yes, but gee-whiz you didn't mean to give all that did you? Kitty. — You deserve it my dear boy and I know that you will make good use of it. Bingo. — Well Kit, I'm obliged to you, and I guess after all I'll take your advice and go to college, but I'd a darned sight rather get married. (Enters Amanda, embraces Kitty.) Amanda. — Well you dear little critter I am so glad to see you lookiii' so well, I'll tell you what it is Kitty, when you was so near death's door and we thought every breath you drew would be your last, it sot Carline and me to thinking and we couldn't help owning to each other that we hadn't done right and you know the new minister has worked won- ders in Holyoke tew. One night when you layed sick in bed Carline and me went to a revival meeting and that new min- ister preached the love of God an' our neighbors right into our souls and Carline told me on our way hum that if ever you got well she would go down on her knees and ask you tew forgive us both for the way we treated you when you liv- ed with us. I tell you what it Kitty, that new minister has worked wonders in our church, I can tell you he has saved more'n one soul and Kitty don't say nothing about it, but he asked Carline to marry him. Kitty. — (Much surprised.) Cousin Carry going to be a ministers wife. Amanda. — I don't blame you for being surprised Kitty, but you've no idea how she's changed since the new minister come. Oh, he's saved more'n one soul let me tell you. Bingo. — And he has saved one soul from being an old maid. Amanda. — I'm ashamed of you Joe Nichols! Bingo. — Can't help it if you be. (Aside.) I wonder what she will say when she finds out that she is going to be my 52 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. mother-in-law. (Enters Carry and Anna, Anna kisses Kitty.) . Bingo. — Don't I wish that was me. Carry. — How much better you look Kitty than when I last saw you. Kitty. — I am feeling very much better, I am gaining strength fast. Bingo. — Say Anna, don't you want to go out into the gar- den, (wiping face.) Its powerful warm inside. A?i7ia. — I should be pleased to go. (Exit Anna and Bingo. Enters Florence, Mrs. Cameron and Delmore.) Florence. — How happy you look this evening Kitty, I see you are getting your roses back again. Amanda. — Where on earth has Anna gone, I can't keep track of her to save my soul. She's always and eternally with that Joe Nichols, I'll bet a cooky they are planing some mischief. Do you know where she is Kitty? Kitty. — I think she has gone into the garden with Joseph, shall I call her? Amanda. — You might give her this shawl and tell lier that I want her to put it on, I dew believe she tries her level best to catch cold, the first thing she knows she'll have rheumatiz as bad as I've got 'em. (Kitty takes shawl and leaves room.) SCENE : IN GARDEN. Enters Kitty. — Calling Anna. Bingo. — Here we are Kitty, I'm awfully glad you come out, we've got something to tell you, you tell her Anna. Anna. — No, you tell her. Bingo. — Well here goes, if you don't tell her I will ; we are engaged. Kitty. — Are you, indeed, I am very glad ; I hope your life will be full of happiness. Bingo. — We ain't going to be married until I graduate, but when we are married we are going to have you and Dick for bridesmaids. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 53 Anna. — They don't have men for bridebmaids goosie ! Bingo. — Well then we will have Kitty for bridesmaid and Dick for best man, how will that suit you? (Enters Dick.) Bingo. — Speak of the Devil and he is sure to appear. Kitty .^—Vi'\c\i ! Oh Dick ! I'm so glad you have come. Bingo. — So be I by gosh. (Handshaking.) Anna. — This is quite a surprise Mr. Moreland, I did not know that you had got home. Dick. — I have only just returned. I left Boston this morn- ing. Bingo. — (Aside. — Come along Anna, don't you see that our room is better than our company.) We are going into the house now; I don't believe this evening air ain't healthy. (Exit Anna and Bingo.) Dick. — My darling can you ever forgive me for doubting you ? Kitty. — (Giving both hands to Dick.) There is nothing to forgive Dick, we have both been deceived and the poor wretch who has caused us so much trouble is to suffer for his crimes ; poor fellow I pitty him ; I wish something would liap- pen that he might escape this horrible death that awaits him. Dick. — It is just like you to forgive and pity that wretch, I for one have not an atom of pity for him, and should be very sorry if the hangman was cheated out of a job. Kitty. — Oh Dick! how can you? he is human like the rest of us. Dick I have learned one lesson since our parting, we must forgive in order to be forgiven. If there were any way in which I could help this man I would do it gladly. Dick. — Let us not take up our time talking about this man. When I heard that you were stricken with brain fever on the night of his arrest it almost drove nie mad ! I could not help thinking that your love for him must have been very deep, and to think how near vou came to being his wife. Kitty.— Don't Dick ! Please do not talk of that, it frightens me to think of it. Dick. — I will not speak of it again dear since it displeases you. 54 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Kitty. — I must return to the house now Dick, I hav^e call- ers this evening, and they will wonder whiit has kept in.' so long. Dick. — Who have you for callers? Kitty.— They are all here, Our friends from Holyoke. Dick. — Is Flos' and Del. here? Kitty. — They are. Dick. — Then we will go in at once. (Exit Kitty and Dick. SCENE : DRAWING ROOM. (Enters Anna, Bingo, Kitty and Dick.) Floi-ence. — (Steps forward.) My dear brother I am so so glad you have returned, we have missed you so much and we do not intend to let you go away again. Del. — Dickey, my old boy, you know that I am always glad to see you. I suppose you will not go away again until you go on your wedding trip. Dick. — And that will be very soon. Del. — By the way, what's the matter with a double wed- ding Thanksgiving. Florence and I are to be married about that time. Dick. — Not a bad idea ; what do you say little one. shall there be a double or not. Kitty.- — As you please Dick. Dick. — That settles it, a double wedding let it be. Bingo. — Say Anna, we am't in it ; we had better go and sit down. (Bingo and Anna walks to side of stage.) Enters Leonard Grayson.) Leonard G. — Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I was not invited here this evening, but I have com.e nevertheless. Del. — Great heavens ! Leonard Grayson, how came you here ? Leojiard G. — Well, I walked part of the way. Mrs. Cameron. — Why ! what does it mean ? Bingo. — Say old man, I thought you were dead and bur- ied long ag-o. KITTY'S TRIUMPH. 55 Leonard G. — So everyone thought, but its very easy to be mistaken. I will tell you just how I happened to be here this evening. Three years ago when my nephew tried to murder me, in my struggle for life 1 brought on an epileptic fit, as you all know, it was thought that I was dead, but thanks to my friends here, Mrs. Cameron and her son, there was a private autopsy held, or rather there was to be one. Two physicians were employed to perform the operation. One of One of them who has taken care of me most of the time since told me that when he began the operation by making an insersion in my flesh that the blood flowed freely, which was a sure sign of life. Upon making this discovery he secretly removed me to his private office where he applied restoratives and brought me back to consciousness, but to his horror I was insane. He then rem )ved me to a private insane asylum, w.ere I have remained until three weeks ago when I became rational, my friend took me to his home where he told me all that had transpired. Before coming here I went to Charles- town and secured the release of my nephew, Howard Gray- son, by proving that he was not a murderer. I shall give him a sum of money and send him out west. There friends, you have the whole in a nut shell. Kitty. — And are you really my grandfather? Leonard G. — Yes, child, I am your grandfather. Come here child I want to look at you. (Kitty steps to Grayson's side. Grayson takes Kitty's hands.) My child you are just like your mother, I know I shall love you an;l do you think you can care for your old grandfather just a little.'' You are all I have now Kitty. (Wiping eyes.) Kitty. —My dear grandfather I love you now. I am very glad that Howai'd has not your blood on his hands. Did you see him while you were in Charlestown? Leonard G. — No I did not, I left word for him to come here tonight. (Enters Howard Grayson.) Well you young dog you are right on hand aren't you ? 56 KITTY'S TRIUMPH. Grayson. — Yes uncle, I want to take the midnight express for Boston ; I want to leave this part of the country as soon as I can. Amanda. — I don't blame you a bit, I would if I were you. Leonard G, — Well here is your money all ready for you, and see that you make good use of it. Grayson. — My dear uncle I do not deserve your forgiveness but believe me, I intend to make my future life such that you will not be sorry you pardoned such a miserable wretch as I have been. Bi72go. — Bet five dollars he's getting ready to cut up some deviltry, I wouldn't trust him as far as I could throw an ele- phant by the tail. Grayson. — I am going now uncle, good bye. (Hand- shaking.) Leonard G. — Good bye my boy and God bless you. Let us hear from you occasionally. Grayson. — I will uncle ! I will ! (To Kitty.) Cousin Kitty have you a kind word for your worthless cousin before he leaves this part of the country? Kitty. — (Giving hand.) Cousin Howard I have fully and freely forgiven you. God grant that your future life may atone for your past, may you never again yield to temptation or steep your soul in sin for love of gold. God bless you and keep you always and help you to be a man. (Exit Grayson.) Bingo. — (Bringing hand down on table.) Oh Lord ! Oh Lord! After all my trouble that villian ain't going to be hanged. CURTAIN FALLS.