A COMEDY DRAMA. A COMEDY DRAMA IN SIX ACTS. Maiden's Adventure. SCENE ON THE UPPER JAMES. Bv TRAVIS ALBERT BRANCH. t^ '^iK ^ RICHMOND: TAYLOR & DALTOX, PRINTERS. 1893. j'lyi'^^X -y'bL'^ r ?ib. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1892, By TRAVIS ALBERT BRANCH, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D C. MAIDEFS ADVENTURE. CAST OF CHARACTERS. Victor Herndon A Young Lawyer Dr. Joshua Hill An Old (Bachelor) Uncle John Hill Nephew of Joshua Hill Charles Crane A Gambler Policeman Sheriff. Paul A Negro Servant Silas A Negro Servant Myra Gramer Niece of Joshua Hill Florence Hill Niece of Joshua Hill Mrs. Brooks Boarding Mistress Miss Kate An Old Maid Diana A Servant to Myra Catherine A Servant to Florence Puss A Servant at Boarding-House Lucy Servant to Victor Bill Robertson and Others. MAIDEN'S ADVENTURE. ..A.OT OJNTE. Scene I.— Library at West View Villa. [Enter John Hill.] John— I gness that stupid old 'uncle of mine is satisfied, he has brought Richard Gramer's child here to inherit his fortune; he has forsworn 'tis true. I have heard him sware that Richard Gramer, his wife, nor child should never cross his threshold. Florence, my cousin, he abhors, and F, his preferred heir, shall not be cut off from my uncle's fortune bv Richard Gramer's child. Not enough of her blood runs in my veins for me to be merciful if she comes between me and Joshua Hill's million, for that mil- lion I must and will have. Here comes the old man now. [Enter Joshua.] Joshua— Halloo! Halloo! What brings you so early, are you sick? Do you feel like you look? Come my boy and let me feel your pulse, I am sure you must be sick from the way you look. John— I am sorr\^, uncle, my looks deceive you. I am feeling quite well, thank you. I am glad to see you looking so w^ell. 6 Maiden's Adventure. Joshua — 0, John, I am glad you are considered a judge, do you think I am looking well? John — Yes; you are almost as large as a hogs- head. Joshua — Well, 3'ou know I have the dyspepsia and am drinking beer for a remedy, and it is an ex- cellent one, it has a stretching capacity, a strong desire to extend my corporation. ' John — And it seems that its desire has been ac- complished, for you are immense. Joshua — Well, my boy, it does seem so; I sup- pose, John, you wnll try a dose ol my medicine, won't you? [Summons a servant.] John — Yes; I'll take a glass, thank you. yosHUA — Look here, John, I believe your girl has bounced you, you look like you have lost your mar- bles, what is the matter with you? John — I hav'nt given anyone the chance. [Enter Paul.] Paul — Sarvant, Massa Josh ; sarvant, Mass John; sarvant, sar? Joshua — Halloo, you are too polite to be honest, you black monkey, you ; bring me some beer in short notice. Paul — [Aside] Massa John looks like de — [aloud, he sings] de last rose of summer. Joshua — I say, John — Oh, hush that fuss, hush that fuss. [Paul still sings.] John — I don't know^ which is making the most fuss, you or he. Is that the way yon rear your ser- vants, to go yelling about the house in that manner. Alaiden's Adventure. 7 Joshua — Wh\', that negro sings delightfully; I taught him how to sing. John— [Aside.] I thought so, [Enters Paul, still singing.] Joshua — What are you yelling about here for? [Paul stops suddenly.] Pll make you drink this glass of beer, you black scoundrel. [Paul trembles and falls on his knees. Josh makes him drink the beer. Paul appears he doesn't like it, and laughs at him behind his back. Josh drinks the remaining glass and sits the other on the table. John picks it up and starts to drink.] Joshua— Hold on, John, don't drink the glass, I'll have you some brought. [To Paul.] Bringme some more beer, steam-piano, for you can make as much fuss as two. [Exit Paul.] I say, John, don't you think that boy can sing ? John — Yes; 1 think he has accomplished moreof the art than his master. [John still remaining.] Joshua — Well, that is how you are raised. You may be a judge of good looks, but not of good singing. [Enters Paul, bearing the beer.] Paul— Here you is, Massa. [Josh takes one, hands it to John; Paul drinks the rest while he is so doing.] Joshua— John, this is the best beer in America; sometimes I wish I were a Dutchman. This — [He sees Paul drinking the other glass of beer, stoops down, w^atches him. drink. Paul looks fiist at the bottom of the glass and then spies his master ; he then backs out under his searching gaze.] Well, 8 Maiden's Adventure. George, that negro beats all I have ever seen, he will have enough of drinking w^hen he gets hold of that bottle of wine. I sa^^ John, have you seen your little counsin ? John— No, I have not. Joshua — Well, I'll have her summoned. JoHN^No, don't bother yourself; I don't care to see her. Joshua — Well, my dear boy, you never saw a lovelier creature in your life, or a sweeter one. John — Yes, very sweet, indeed; something like her mother. You'll spend your money to educate her and then she will marr\' some vagabond. Joshua — Come, sir, how dare you speak of your aunt and child in that manner? She had but one fault; she loved too passionately one who was not worthy of her affections. She disobeyed my wishes, and in a fit of madness I swore she should never cross my threshold. She died in want without my knowledge, and for the sin of that oath I'll make amends to her daughter. Oh, Mary, Mary, had I not sworn that oath. [Tears steal down his cheeks.] John — Uncle Josh will you excuse me? Joshua — 0, certainly, certainly, but one thing first young man, don't ever allude to your aunt in my presence again, and shame for this time. Now go and drown your troubles in some sport that would suit you best. John — Thank you, uncle, I'll drown my troubles soon enough. [Aside.] In a manner 3^ou little expect. Maiden's Adventure. 9 Joshua — [Bows low.] Certainly, ha I ha! ha! bv jollv, the boy is mad; he thinks his financial neck is broken, an arrogant young dude. He is verv much like his mother, judgingfrom the amount of his insolence. Hoot! hoot! I am getting mad myself. [Summons Paul.] I generally drown my troubles with a big drink. [Enter Paul.] Some wine. [He begins to pout and knocks things around generally.] Paul — All right massa. [Aside.] I is guine get another drink. Begins to sing. [Exit Paul.] Joshua — Angels and ministeis of grace defend us, if I don't kill that negro. [Grabs up the broom and knocks him down as he enters. Paul spills the wine on the floor and licks it up. As he is lying on the floor, Josh looks at him a moment or two, then beats him off the stage. He sits in front of the au- dience a few moments breathing very hard.] Oh, that negro, he will be the death of me, confound him ; he is so fond of licking, I'll get Mason to lick him, and that decent, but I'll fix him and Silas, too, the scamps; the\^ have stolen a bottle of wine that I put pepper in; they will think it was made of pepper instead of grapes, and that the devil was the manufacturer of it, for I am going to play ghost and scare them like the devil. He dresses like a ghost. [Exit Josh.] Scene II. — Darkies cabin. [Enters Josh.] Joshua — Just in time, here they come. Where must I get? Right behind this barrel. [Secretes.] Oh, you 10 Maiden s Adventure. scampvS, I'll make yon think the devil is boss in this shanty. [Enters Paul and Silas,] Paul — Ha ! ha ! ha! Silas, massa guine think he drinked dis wine, but he gnine think wrong dis time, ain't he doe? Silas — Yes, he is ; nigger love wnne same as white folks. [Paul starts to drink.] Look here, look here nigger, Fo you mess wid dat wine, half longs to dis nigger. [Grabs Paul bv the arm.] Paul — Take here, I is guine give you half. 0, take here, take here; I is guine drink. [He drinks, turns his head, and hands the bottle to Silas; he drinks, and vSets the bottle down very easy ; both go through as many foolish actions as necessary; then the ghost appears, blows out the light, and scares them almost to death. Exit both ] [Josh bursts into a fit of laughter. Exit Josh.] Diana — [Enter Diana bearing a sword, followed by Paul and Silas] Whar did you see de debil. I'll make him know his place. . Whar is he? Paul — Right ober dar, mammy — worp! [He starts back.] Diana — Whar? [She gets frightened.] Silas — Mammy, he is big as old Sal mule. Diana — Ah ! chillon, 'tis dat good ole father of yalls come to tell yalls to 'pent and 'pent speedily. I tell you, chillon, you had better 'pent, for the time is coming when you can't, can't 'pent. Paul — Mammy, if dat is father, he is done turned to de debil, for he sartinly had horns. Diana — You talk fool, nigger. Your father was Maiden's Adventure. 11 a 'Siplc, and come to tell yall ob de sin yall been done. You better 'pent and 'pent speedy, 'cause you guine be dam and dam 'turnaly. What's dis here? Ah, you black sons of Ham ; been stealing massa's wine. You know you is; you know you is. Hush! hush! 1 is guine beat you. [She looks at the bottle.] Oh ! I is got such a pain. 'Postle Paul said must take some for stomach sake. [Paul and Silas look at her and nearly break their sides laughing. She drinks.] Murder! murder! fire! fire! Oh! my stomach, my stomach! Water, water! [Starts to look for water. Enter ghost. She falls upon the floor and tries to swim off. Paul sticks his head in the barrel. Silas makes an effort to escape through the private-box, turns, and tries to pass the ghost, but he catches him by the hair, then lets him go.] Scene closes. Scene III. — Library in the same. Joshua— [Alone.] Ha ! ha ! ha !— oh, m\^ side. By bloods, if I haven't had some fun this night. I don't want a cent. [He rings for Diana. Enter Diana.] Halloo, old mammy, I thought you were in the fairy land. Diana — No, massa, not yet, but I seed death dis night — oh, my stomach. Joshua— Well, what did he say? Diana — Ah, massa, he say, "Diana, Diana, time don't 'long ' ' — massa, he fill me wid fire and smite me to de floor. Ah, massa, I hears dat voice calling dis old nigger; Diana, Diana, ah, 'taint guine be 12 Maiden's Adventure. long. He guine take dis old black soul, den I is guine sing. [Starts humming a negro tune and patting her foot; then shouts. Exit Diana, sing- ing as she goes.] Joshua — Well, that will do. Go summons the two young ladies. [Enter Alyra; soon after, Florence.] Myra — 0, uncle, you look so happy. [She kisses him.] What makes you so happy ? Joshua — Why, because you kissed me; isn't that enough to make a fellow happy? If you would kiss some of the boys around here, you would make them so happv they would butt their brains out. Myra — Well, uncle, I will be sure not to cause any one to commit suicide in such a horrible man- ner. Oh, uncle, I have been reading Poe's "Black Cat." People say no one can read it and sleep that night, and I am trying it. Joshua — So you are trying to be brave, are you ? Myra — Yes, I would like to be a brave girl. Joshua — That's right, m\^ dear child; you will need all of your bravery here, I am afraid. [Enter Florence.] Florence — Do you wish to speak with me? Joshua — Yes, Lady Florence, if your majesty w411 permit. Florence — Then be brief. Joshua — I will, to be sure, for your company is as obnoxious to me as mine is to you ; I only wish to say that I am going to the city to engage board Maidens Adventure. 13 and school for \'on and Myra. Have you anything to say ? Florence— Nothing; only I prefer to do both alone. Joshua— Ha! ha! ha! Well, I prefer you will do both together. You can go. Florence— [Aside.] Til get even with you. [Exit Florence.] Myra— Uncle, she seems at enmity with us all. Pray tell me what I have done to offend her? Joshua— 0. never mind her; she is a little dyspep- tic, that's all; she needs beer. Myra— Uncle, don't you think a dose of kind words would be a better remedy? I will do any- thing to pleavSe her. Joshua — I believe you are an angel. Suppose you try it ; it is an excellent remedy, but I am afraid the\^ will be rather hard to digest. Myra— I'll try it this night, uncle. [Kisses him good night. Exit Myra.] Joshua— If that is not an angel, I don't know who is. Just like her mother— kind-hearted, loves peace, good to everybody, and hates no one. I will be dad blamed if she don't have a tuff custo- mer to deal with, for that gal is the devil. [Exit Josh.] Scene IV.— Florence's room. [Myra taps gently at the door.] Florence— Things have come to a pretty pass, that I have got to board w^here he sees fit, and 14 Maiden's Adventure. with that as^vlum girl, that I may be naortified as often as possible by her ignorance. Claiming kin with me. I don't believe she is Aunt Myra's child. [Mvra taps.] Come in. [Enter Myra,] I pre- sume you have missed your way. Myra — No, cousinFlorence; I wish to speak to vou. Will you permit me? Florence — No, I wish to confer with, no one. I am in no mood for communication. Please leave my room. Myra — May I not speak one word with yo.u? Florence — No. not a syllable; you have already said too much, and hereafter, w^hen you address me, let it be Miss Florence or nothing. Now go. Myra — Then I am not your cousin ? Florence — No, not a drop of your blood runs in my veins. Richard Gramer, your father, died a drunkard in the streets of Charleston, and your mother, a miserable pauper. [Enters Diana.] Myra — Florence Hill, it's a lie. [She screams and falls in Diana's arms. Curtain falls while Diana is shaking her fist at Florence.] Maiden s Adventure. 15 j^csT a?AVO. Scene I.^oshua Hill in city; meets Victor Herndon. Joshua — Helloo, helloo, how much is the stakes? Victor — Helloo. Doctor, you are an early bird. What brings you to town so early f [Shake hands. ] Joshua — Business, my boy, business; and I want to see some of my old friends. Victor — Well, I hope you won't have much trou- ble in finding them. Joshua — Well, I hope so, too. By the wa\', you are just the fellow I want to see. I tell you, Vic, [slaps him on the shoulder] I have the sweetest little gal at home \'ou ever saw, and, I tell you, she is as pretty as a picture. Victor — Where did you find such a beautiful creature? Joshua — Victor, I have been an ungrateful dog. She is my sister's child, who died a year ago, and I have just brought her home, and Florence, m^^ soul, is furious. Victor — Doctor, I didn't know vour sister had a child. How old is she? Joshua — O, she is sixteen, and just from school, and as coy as a mouse. 16 Maiden's Adventure. f Victor — 0, that is a charming age, and I would be more than pleased to meet her. Joshua — Well, I guess you can if you try. You will always find her under old Joshua's roof, and there, Vic, you are always welcome. I say, Vic, the early bird Ccitches the worm. Let's have a drink. [Enter bar; scene opens.] How is busi- ness, my boy ? Victor — Business is brisk — very brisk. 1 have several cases of breach of promise on hand. Joshua — Give us a julep. [To bar-keeper.] Girls are numerous, and as sharp as briars, and YOU had better mind how you court, boy. I say, I have a good one on your profession. Victor — You have? Let's hear it. Joshua — What is the difference between a soldier andalawver? Come, now^ ; summon your wits. Hold on; let's drink first. [They drink.] Victor — What is the difference between a law- 3^er and a soldier? Well, the only difference I can see is this : A lawyer fights with his tongue and a soldier with implements of war. Joshua — Pretty good ; but you are wrong. You are off the track. [Slaps him on the shoulders.] Victor — Well, I'll give it tip. I am not apt on problems, I'll admit. Joshua — Well, you see a soldier charges upon his enemy's breast- work, and a lawyer upon his friend's pocket-book. Ha! ha! ha! That's so; isn't it, old boy? [Slaps him on the shoulder.] Victor — [Aside.] If I don't leave him, he will Maiden's Adventure. 17 kill me. Doctor, that is brilliant. Let's have a julep. [To bar-keeper.] Well, we'll take another, and I must leave you. Joshua — But look here — bv the wav, where can I find a first-class boarding-house? I want to send those gals to school in town. Victor— Why, yes, there is Mrs. Brooks. 417 S. Fourth street. First-class house, fine lady, and she's a widow. Joshua — Capital; let's drink on that. [He slaps at him, Victor steps aside, and Josh falls on his hands and knees.] Victor — Helloo, let me pick you up. Joshua — Well, I believe I need \^our assistance. [A boy steps into the bar, sticks him with a pin, then runs out. He jumps vip in a second.] Who did that? Victor — Didn't you see the bo\' as he ran out? Joshua — No ; dad blame his buttons. If I had I would have given him this foot, and it's a Number ten, too. Now, we'll take that drink, and heie is luck to the widow. [They drink.] Victor — Well, Doctor, F must leave you ; but how did \^ou leave all at home? Joshua — All at home? Why, sick. Diana has the rheumatism, old Mary the mumps, Paul and Silas have wine on the brain, Florence the devil's dyspepsia, and I — oh ! [Slaps where the boy stuck him, and looks around and tries to see the place.] Where did you say that boy went? Victor — Whv, that bov is at home bv now. 18 Maiden s Adventure. Joshua — Well, be had better stay there, too; confonncl him. Victor — Doctor, I. must leave yon. I am in sort of a hurry. Good day. Don't foro^et the widow. Joshua — Good day. I won't ibrget her. you bet. [Aside.] That's a fine boy. He is in love with that gal now. I can see it in his eye. Well, go on; I don't care. But won't Florence plav the devil? I say, neighbor, [to bar-keeper] it's a long time between drinks. Let's have another. Come on, vou'll drink with me, won't vou? B. K. — Oh, yes; I never refuse to drink with a fine-looking fellow like you. Joshua — Good! Give us your hand. Smith, Brown, or Jones. B. K. — You are mistakenin the name, sir. Wash- ington Marion Henry Lee is my name. Joshua— Old Vet.— old soldier. Well, I haven't seen you since the war. I say, Washington Marion Henry Lee, we will drink for old acquaintance sake. You remember, Lee, when we fought side by side at the battle of Bunker Hill, when we made the "red coats" drink their blood, and at Yorktown, when \\t gave America her freedom ? Oh, if I were an orator. Do you know my name? B. K.— Well, i can't say I do. Joshua — My name is Josiah Jonathan Joshua Hill. B. K. — From your name, I would judge vou were a D. D. Mfiidcns Adventure. 19 Joshua — No; oh, no; not so. If I nni, I nm in the wrong ])c\v. No, sir; I am an M. D., sir. Wtll. I have lots ot l)iisiness to transact, so I must he oft. Good day. Hold on, I gness you liad better give ine a bottle or two of stimulants to take with me. 1 don't like the blame stutif. I)ut I reckon I had bet- ter have it. B. K. — Doctor, that name of vours is enough to kill you ; you had better have it changed. Joshua — That nameisall right. Give me another drink, an'd if it kills me, Til die happy. [Thev drink.] Richard is himself again ; let Hercules do as he will and I'll do the same. [He settles up, puts his })ottles in his pocket, starts out, and then stc)ps.] Now for Mrs. — Mrs. — Mrs. — where does she live? B. K. — Where does who live? ' Joshua — 0, you know who I mean; the widow. B. K. — How do I know; the town is full of widows. Joshua — Well, if you don't know, 1 will ask some one th'cxt does. [Exit Josh. Scene //.] Helloo, where am I? [Enter bov.] I sa\\ Johnnie, where am I going? Johnnie— To the devil, it seems to me. [Josh starts after him. He runs off. Josh runs against a policeman just entering.] Policeman— Hold up, here. What vos vou mean by running against the city authority. I'll take you in. Joshua — No. thanks, plenty. I say, old cub, you look like you are blooming. [Catches him bv 20 Maiden's Adventure. tlie nose.] What will yon take for this blossom? Pol. I'll sell you dis stick, dat's vot I do. Joshua — Well, what will you take for the stick? I'll buy that. Pol. — Look here, vot does ye mean? [Draws his pistol.] }osHUA — WVU, do you want to sell that? I'll buy anything. Pol. — No, I vant to sell noting. Joshua — Well, how would you like to take a drink ? Pol. — Vas you got somet'ing mit you. [Josh hands him the bottle. He drinks.] Joshua — [Aside: Oh, foi some Cayenne!] I say, Mr. City Authority, tell me where Mrs. — Mrs. — Mrs.— 0, confound her name— 300— 300-300— 0, gol darn it. Pol. — [Draws his pistol.] I say, squire, another. Joshua — [Looks down the barrel.] Anything in it ? Pol. — Yes, it vas a full charge. Joshua — All right, I'm tradingthis time. [Hands him the bottle, catches hold of the pistol ; he re- fuses to giye it up; pistol fires, police drops very scared, and swears he is shot, but holds to the bot- tle, and drinks it dry before he gets up.] I say, old squib, don't drink any more than you want. Pol. — No, dis vas goot viskey, squire. [He tries to rise, but falls several times, then rises, leels for his pistol, then points a stick at him] Another bottle, squire. Maiden's Adventure. 21 Joshua — Oh, I guess not. I hold trumps this time. Now, old stork, I want to find the widow's house. Pol. — Darn devidder's house. Vot does I know about der vidder's house? Joshua — What do you know about this? [Draws the pistol.] Pol— Dat vas all right, squire; dat vas all right; but have you got any more dat gootviskey? Joshua — No ; Pve got no more for you. March, now, or I will take that blossom for a target. [Exit policeman ; Josh behind him.] Scene II. — Mrs. Brooks' boarding-house. [Ser- vant girl dusting. Enter Josh.] Joshua — Is this the right place, ray dearie? [Servant very scared.] By Jehosiphat ! isn't she black? [Whistles.] Black as ten of spades at midnight. I say, did your daddy sell charcoal ? Servant— Sah ? Joshua — Is this a boarding-house ? [Very quick.] Servant — Yas— sar. [Very slow.] Joshua — Well — I — want — to — see — your — mis- tress. Servant— Sah ? [Don't move.] Joshua — I want to see your mistress verj^ quick. [He jumps at her.] I want to see the lad3^ [She leaves the stage in double-quick time.] Joshua — If that isn't a black gal, Ham never had one. Look, she is coming; I hear her sweet voice. [He straightens up.] Helloo, don't she sing. 22 Maiden's Adventure. [He throws in a few notes of bass. Enter Miss Kate, an old maid, singing; Josh unobserved.] Joshua — Good morning, madam. Is this the lady of the house? [Miss Kate screams, and starts to run out. Josh heads her several times, then let's her go. Josh falls down in a fit of laugh- ter. Enter Mrs. Brooks while he is in the act. He jumps up and assumes a very polite position.] Mrs. B. — Well, sir; good morning. Joshua — Good morning, Mrs. — Madame — Mrs. B. — Mrs. Brooks is my name. sir. Joshua — O, yes, madam; yes, madam; my memor\^ is brief. You must excuse my humVjle position. Something came in here just now. I thought it was a bird when I first heard it, but when it went out it sounded like a pig under the fence. My, how she squealed ! Mrs. B.— Why, sir; that was Miss Kate Smith, a young lad v. Joshua — Well, I should think so. Does she live here ? Mrs. B. — Yes, she lives here. Joshua — Excuse me. [Starts for his hat.] Mrs. B. — f believe vou sent for me sir; did you not? TosHUA — Excuse me, asfain. You know mv friend, madam "^ Mrs. B.— I don't think I know to whom you allude. Joshua — Why, Victor Herndon. Everybody knows him. He is a fine boy. I've known him Maiden's Adventure. 23 ever since he was a minute old. His father and I were boys together, and he fell in the grand cause of America's freedom. Mrs. B. — 0, yes, I know Vic, very well; but I cannot personate you. I would be obliged if you would introduce yourself. Joshua — Pardon me, madam. I have the honor to present to you Dr. Josiah Jonathan Joshua Hill, Mrs. B.— Dr. Hill, I presume? Joshua — Yes, madam; Dr. Hill. Mrs. B. — I believe you wished to see me on busi- ness? Joshua — Yes, madam ; I understood from my friend, Victor, that you kept a first-class boarding- house. Mrs. B.— Yes, sir; that's what I try to do. Joshua — Well, then, we'll come down to busi- ness. I have two nieces that I wish to get board for. Can you accommodate them ? Mrs. B. — I think I can, sir. When shall I look for them ? Joshua — Well, let me see; I guess they will be here Monday. Mrs. B. — Very well; 1 w^ill look for them. It is quite earh'. I presume you haven't breakfasted. Joshua — No, madam ; I have not. Mrs. B. — Then excuse me, and I will have it here in a few moments. [Exit Mrs. B.] Joshua — Nothing will I more willingly do. [He saunters around the room looking at its contents, and starts singing "Home. Sweet Home," and is 24 Maiden s Adventure. interrupted b\^ the entrance of Mrs. Brooks and servant, bearing the breakfast. The servant sets the breakfast on the table and runs out.] Mrs. B. — Doctor, here is your breakfast. Joshua — Oh, thank you ; thank you. I feel like I could eat a pig. Mrs. B. — Well, I hope you will enjoy it; bul I am sorry you were interrupted in your song by my entrance; but I thought you would enjoy your breakfast more than your song, though I enjoyed it very much. Joshua — [Steps up close to her.] Did you really enjov it? My friend Herndon tells me you are a widow. Is that so? Mrs. B. — Yes, sir; I am a widow, of five years. Joshua — [Aside: That's good.] And I am a bachelor of fift\ and still on the carpet. [Curtain falls.] Maiden's Adventure. 25 (Af|er Nine Months' Interval.) Scene I. —Mrs. Brooks' hoarding-house. [Myra seated in the parlor. Enter Florence and absconds.] Myra— I wonder why Vic stays so long? What can detain him? He promised to be here at five, and now it is most six. Uncle says he believes I am in love. Well, I really believe I am. How could I help loving Victor? He is so kind, noble, and manlv. Victor is everything in my eyes. He says he loves me, and I believe he does. My very heart beats at the hearing of his footsteps. The hours we spend together seem blessed with smiles from heaven. Oh, I never dreamed of such happy hours! My life has been a sad one. 1 left West View nine months ago in tears, but I am thankful I can forgive her, though she has caused me many a tear of sorrow. Hush! That's Victor. [Runs to see.] Yes, that's he. He comes like the sun breaking through a dark cloud. I'll meet him. No, that's too childish. I'll pretend I am reading. [She gets a book. Enter Victor, creeps up behind her, and puts his hands over her eyes.] Victor— Well, did vou think I wasn't coming.^ 26 Maiden s Adventure. Myra — No, I didn't think that; but I wanted you to come. [Florence looks from behind the screen and frowns.] Victor — Did yon want to see me very bad? Myra — Indeed, I did. I am always glad to see vou. Victor — Well, I am going to tell your fortune for being so sweet. Florence — [Aside, with teeth clenched] : Sweet, is she ? Myra — Now, Victor, you don't mean that. I am not sweet. Victor — I do; and you are just as lovelv as you are sweet. Now, lam going to tell your fortune. Myra — No, no. Victor; don't tell my fortune; it was told once by a gypsy, and since then I have had too much faith in fortune-telling. Victor — What did she tell you, Myra? Myra — One day, as I was roaming all alone in the fields around Glenmore, I met a haggard-look- ing woman. She said : " Miss, can I tell vour for- tune? " I consented. She said my life would be a dark one, full of sorrow, but vet there would be days of sunshine. Victor, I am happy when I am wMth you, but still I feel that there are troubles I have yet to bear. Florence — [Aside] : I will see to your troubles. Victor — Myra, don't speak so. You make me feel sad. I w^asn't going to tell vou a sad fortune. I was going to tell you a good one, and every word W'ill be true. Mnidens Adventure. 27 Myra — Well, you may tell it, if it is going to be so good and all true. Victor — All right, I'll begin. Some one loves you and wonders if it is returned. He it is who stands before you and awaits an answer. [She bows her head.] Alyra, can 3^ou not answer? Do you love me? Say yes and make me happy. [She remains silent.] Speak, M^^ra, or suspense will kill me. Say \'Ou love me. [Florence listens, trembling with anger.] Myra — Victor, I do love you. [Florence starts, then stops.] Victor — Then, Myra, be my wife. M^'RA — Victor, are you free to ask that ques- tion ? Victor — Free? Yes, as a bird. Why do you ask am I free? Myra — Are you not engaged to my cousin ? Victor— No, no. 'I'll swear by the stars — by heaven — by everything — that I love no one but you. Mvra, I am as free 'is the winds that blow. Come, now, be silent no longer. It is cowardly. Make me happy while it is in your power. Myra — Then you shall be happy. [She clasps him around the neck. He kisses her. Florence rushes from her hiding-place.] Florence — What means this, Victor Herndon ? And vou, vou little wretch, hugging a man in this manner. Your uncle shall know of your conduct. Myra — Please, Florence. [Starts to beseech her.] Victor — Stop, M3^ra; stop, Miss Hill. I am re- 28 Maiden^s Adventure. sponsible for all. I presume you have the knowl- edge of our relationship, as you were an ear and eye- witness of all that passed. Your language was quite surprising. Florence — Silence, you coward. What right have 3^ou to upbraid me, sir? Leave this room im- mediately. Victor— You speak with authorit3% and I sup- pose I must obey, as I sought your presence. Come, Myra, we'll walk. [They start.] Florence — No; s/ze will remain. Victor — May I, too, have the pleasure? Florence — No; your absence I prefer. Victor — Then, Miss Hill, you must deliver your lecture in the future; your cousin is engaged at present. [Exit Myra and Victor.] Florence — You swore by heaven you loved her, and I'll swear bj^ heaven I will have m\' revenge. You dog, thcit feed on hearts like mine, will find it hard to digest. I'll foil you or lose mv head to ac- complish it. x\nd you, Myra Gramer, shall not es- cape my revenge. It was your beauty that won him, and it shall perish. I'll make you rue the day that you were born. Vengeance! Vengeance is sweet, and you shall know the vengeance of a woman if these hands of mine shall dabble in blood to accomplish it. [She sits in silence a few min- utes. Enter servant and hands her a card. She looks at it, then tears it in pieces.] Leave me; I wish to see no one. Stay! Show him in. [Exit servant.] I will make a tool of him to accomplish MnicJens Adventure. 29 my aim. He will serve my purpose if there is fifty thousand in it, and I'll make him believe that at Uncle Joshua's death I'll have full control of my father's fortune. I will promise to marry him, and that will be all. [Enter Charles Crane.] Chas.— Good mornin^;, Miss Hill; I am sorry to see vou looking so ill-composed. I expected to find you in better spirits, as this will be your last eve- ning in our citv. Florence— Thank yon, Mr. Crane. You are complimentary, but I am not mad, as you sup- posed, but only a little vexed. These servants are so stupid. lam rather surprised to see you, as you said vou never expected to come again. Chas— Well, I did say so, but I w^as angry at the time, and, as the song goes, "Love has con- quered pride and anger." Florence— But you don't mean that, Charlie. You don't love me. Chas.— Hut I do. I swear by the stars and by— Florence— Stop, stop! Swear not by the stars. If you love me swear by thy dagger or something by which you can defend a lady's honor or thine own. Chas.— I will swear by anything that pleases thee, that I love thee. Florence— A man must be a brave man for me to love. Chas.— Florence, do you doubt my bravery ? Florence— No; I have no right to. But if you 30 Maiden s Adventure. were insulted by a gentleman, how would you re- sent it ? Chas. — I would use this. [Draws a revolver.] Florence — [Aside: He is the man for me.] Well, Charlie, I haven't been as kind to you as I should have been, but I will be a better girl in the future. I leave for West View to-morrow. You must come to see me often. You will excuse me, won't you, as I have to make ready for to-mor- row. I will expect you soon at West View. Good evening. [Exit Florence.] Chas. — She speaks well to-night. Well, there is hope as long as life. She has a temper, but she has fifty thousand hard cash, and it's the cash I want worse, but I will take both rather than miss. Well, I s'uess FU oo ; I will see her at West View in a few days. [Exit Charlie] [Enter Myra.] Myra — Where did I leave my book? Here it is. Victor, I know, is the deraest old thing in the world. I don't care if she did see' him kiss me. He has a right, and she has nothing to do with it. I will acquaint Uncle Josh of Victor's desires as soon ar I see'him, and that will make it all right. Oh ! Fm the happiest girl in the world, [enter Florence] and I am going to be Victor's wife just the same. Florrnce — Not if my nameis Florence Hill, you won't. [Myra turns around suddenly.] Mvra Gramer, I give you warning to beware of Victor Herndon. He is only cajoling you. In the first place, you are not his equal, and in the second he Alnidcn's Adventure. 31 is rnv betrothed, and if vou don't understand that language, miss, he is mv intended husband. Read that ! [Hands her letter to read.] Myra— Oh! heaven defend me! Can this be true? [She crumbles the letter in her hand.] Florence — Promise me you will not sec him again and I will forgive you. Myra — No, I will not. I believe it is false, and I will see him again. Florence — Then meet him again, if you will rob me of my husband, and I will rob you of vour existence. Mark- that ! [Exit Florence.] Myra — [Swoons and then partly rivses] : Victor, Victor, hast thou deceived me? [Scene closes.] Seene II. — Florence seated in the grove at West View. [Enter Paul. 1)eariiig a letter from Victor.] Paul — Miss Florence, here is one letter for vou. [She snatches the letter from him. He jumps. Paul, aside]: If dat hnd been Miss Myra, she'd gin me five cents, bringing a letter from Mr. Vic- tor. [Exit Paul.] Florence — [Reads] : I hope you will forgive mv unkind remarks, and that we will meet as friends in the future. [Siie tears it in ]3ieces and speaks with fur}-] : Yes, I'll forgive you. I'll meet vou as a friend in the future. A friend to your downfall. Oh, Victor Herndon, you shall pay for this. There is too much of my mother's blood flowing in my viens to be trampled upon b\ a man in this manovfr. Venojeance, veno^eance ! I'll have 32 Maiden's Adventure. it, cost what it nla\^ [Exit Florence. SceiiC closes.] Scene III. — River bank at West View. Myra alone, looking very downcast, pinning a flower on her dress She hears Victor whistling at a dis- tance. Her countenance brightens, then changes very sad.] Myra — O, he must not see me. [She secretes herself. Enter Victor.] Victor — Where is she? They said she washeie, and here is where she has been. She must be about here gathering flowers. I'll look for her. [Exit Victor.] AIyra — Oh, Victor, dost thou know why I hide from thee? Did'st thou not swear that thou wert free? C^n it be that you, so frank, so noble, would deceive me and add niore sorrow^ to rpy lot? I am tangled amid the thorns. They pierce me on every side. I know not which wa\^to go. M\' pleasures are like the March sunshine — they are soon van- ished. 0, Victor, if I tell thee, wilt thou take me awav? I know he wmII. I do not believe him false. [Enter John Hill in disguise.] 1 will see him. [She looks around and sees the disguised figure. She screams; he grabs her and throws herin the water. He makes his escape. Enter Victor.] Victor — Where is she? I heard her scream. My soul, she is drowning. [He leaps in and brings her out unconscious.] What means all this? [Curtain falls.] Maiden's Adventure. 33 .A.CT :jpotjti. Scene I.— Rose Garden Villa, opposite side river. Joshua alone in his library. Joshua— Wonderful things are going to happen— wonderful things. Florence actually condescended to speak to me this morning, and positively smiled when she said good morning, Uncle Josh. I am be- wildered. There is something behind that smile. Mark me, she wants a tremendous grant of some sort. Helloo, here she comes. Florence*— Good morning, uncle. Joshua -Good morning, my fair niece. [She frowns aside.] Florence — Uncle, I came to ask a favor of you. [Diana starts to enter, but stops at the sight of Florence.] Joshua— Ah ! What is it, my dear, you would like me to do? Florence— There is a fellow in the city who has fallen in love with me. [oshua— Is that so? And you want my consent. Florence— No, I do not want your consent. The fellow is a perfect bore to me, and he is coming here to-davto see me, and I don't like to insult him. 34 Maidens Adventure. [Diana claps her hands and leaves the door.] Will you relieve me of that trouble? Joshua — Well, who is it? That is the question. Florence — His name is Charlie Crane. [He jumps from his seat.] Joshua — Charlie Crane? Has that scoundrel the audacity to pa}^ 3'ou attention ? An infamous ras- cal. If he puts his foot on Rose Garden, I'll kick him from one end to the other. Hoot! I'm mad all over. [Enter Diana. Mason, the overseer.] Diana — Massa, Mr. Mason wants for to see you. Joshua — [To Diana.] Very well; very well. [To Florence.] When do you expect him ? Florence — To-day, he wrote me word. Joshua — Very well, I'll vsee him. [Exit Josh.] Florence — [Alone]: Ha! ha! ha! From your madness I contract pleasure, and if you don't find kicking in the way, I am mistaken in the man. Scene III. — Door of the same. [Enter Charlie Crane.] Chas. — Well, I'm here, and there is fifty thou- sand dollars here, too, if I can get it. but that's the trouble; she is a tuff customer to deal with, but that money I must have, and to get that I must have her. Well, I guess I can stand her for fifty thousand. I wonder if she is at home. [Heraps] No one here; I'll knock again. [He raps again.] This is a beautiful place. I wonder if it is her's. Well, what is her's will be mine. B\^ Joe, I believe they are all a^-ay. I'll tr\' it again. [Just as he Maiden^ s Adventure. 35 knocks Josh pulls the door open. He steps back quick.] Good morning, Dr. Hill; good morning, sir; fine weather we are having; very pleasant, in- deed, sir, for June. [Aside] : Helloo, he is deaf. Joshua — Well, sir; if you are through with your good mornings and fine weather, you ma^- tell me your business. Chas.— [Aside] : Well, George, that's hot [Aloud] : Well, sir, I came to see Miss Hill. Is she in ? Joshua — Yes, she is in. What is vour business with her? Chas. — Strictly private, sir. Joshua — I am her guardian, and I must know your business, or you cannot see her. Chas. — Your manner indicates that I am obnox- ious to you. If you will show me in and inform Miss Hill that I wish to see her, bv so doinsf vou will rid yourself of my com])any ; or, in other words, Mr. Crane awaits her presence. [Josh stands starin^.] Well, what are you staring at? Joshua — Nothing. That is as near as I can come at you. Chas. — Y'ou are very insulting, sir. What do you mean by addressing a gentleman in that manner? Joshua — A gentleman I ha I ha I ha ! Have vou thfit audacity ? Chas. — Look here, sir, I have encujgli of this; I am no hog. Joshua — Well, there is not much difference be- 36 Maiden^ s Adventure. tween a hog and a Crane ; they are both so mean that arsenic won't kill them. What is j^our occu- pation, I would like to know? Chas. — None of your business ; you are too pre- sumptuous for good luck. I'll stand no more of this; you must retract. Joshua — You are a card merchant, I presume? Chas. — You are a lie, I presume. [Draws his revolver ; Josh knocks him down ; his revolver falls out of his hand.] Scene IV. — Grove of the same. Charlie meets Florence as he is leaving. Chas. — I will kill that hound before the sun sets, an infernal scoundrel. [Enter Florence.] Florence — Why, Charlie, what means this? Who are vou addressing in this manner? Has any one offended you ? Chas. — Yes, that uncle of yours has offended me, and he shall die, as sure as my name is Crane. Florence — If he insulted you, why did you not kill him on the spot? Why now think of the act? You are a coward. You are not the man I thought you were, to take an insult, and not resent it. Chas. — A man ! I am a man ; and I am not a coward. I tried, and the elephant knocked me down, and I had no chance. That is whv you call me a cownrd; hut I will have my revenge, if it takes me a lifetime to accomplish it. Florence — Charlie, if he has offended vou, he Ahiuicn's Adventure. 37 has offended me, and revenge is mine, also. Listen, if you are what you pretend to be — Chas. — I am what I pretend to be, and what you say I will do. Florence— Joshua Hill has fifty thousand dol- lars of my money, and, besides, he has made no will; and, remember, his fortune is great, and he has but three heirs to inherit it ; and I cannot come in possession of mine, or become your wife, until he is removed. What say you? Chas.— He sliall be removed, and that in short notice. Florence — Don't be hasty, man. Do vou not care something for your life? Have patience, and I will contrive some wav bv which vou will not be accused. Remember, now, if you arc successful, all that I have is vours; say no more. Come to- morrow to the end of the g'^rden, c'.nd there await, beneath yon massive oak, the waving of this handkerchief, as a signal to meet me at the lower door of the west wing. Do not let Noursclf beseen. Stop; say not a word. Lenvc here as soon as pos- sible; some one will be here anon. Go now and remember your reward if you are successful . [Exit Chas.] Go, vou mad beast; you shall have the bones and I the marrow. This dagger shall strike the fatal blow. [Draws the dagger.] Ah, Hern, don, thou fool, to carve t!i\ name upon a weapon in such dfingcrons times. But you shrdl ])av lor vour foil v. This blade shall bring me the revenge I seek. There — there thev are now. Could I not 38 Maiden's Adventure. pierce her very heart ; tear from her the last spot of beauty that has robbed me of the onh^onelever loved. Could I not robe her with the afflictions of Job and the agonies of Dives. Oh, can I stay ray hand from vengeance? Nature has formed you beautiful, but I will form your destiny'. Victor Herndon,! offered you my love and 3'ou would not accept it ; now receive my hatred in its greatest capacity. [Enter Victor and Myra. Florence secretes.] Victor — Do not be alarmed at what she- says ; she dare not touch you. What she said concerning me IS as false as perdition is deep; I never dreamed of such things. To-morrow I will acquaint your uncle of my intentions. Florence— [Aside.] Not if I live. Myra — Promise me, Victor, you will not men- tion wdiat I said about Florence. Please, Victor, promise. Will you ? Victor — Myra, I will promise. Bear no uneasi- ness concerning her; for if she harms a hairof 3^our head, she shall pay for it two-fold. [Florence bounds towards them with a drawn dagger ; starts to stab him, still unseen. Scene closes with a tab leau.] Scene V. — [Charlie on hand.] Chas. — I don't think I have been seen. Now for the signal from the west window. I am eager to strike the blow^ which will bring me both revenge and wealth. One stroke wnth this glittering blade Maiden s Adventure. o9 and, Joshua Hill, you arc no more, and I will see LJiat Florence keeps her word. Hclloo, there's the signal. [Exit Chas. Scene closes and he meets Florence in front of the scene.] Florence — [Very easy.] Have you been seen? Chas. — No ; not by any one. Florence — Take this; you haven't a moment to lose. [Hands him a dagger.] Follow me, and leave the dagger where you pierce it. [Points to the name on the dagger. He reads the name.] Chas. — Victor Herndon. Where did you get this? Florence — Ask no questions. Do as I bid vou. Follow me. [Exit both.] Scene VI. [Charlie and Florence at the door of Joshua Hill's library; Joshuasitting with his back to the door; Florence points at him.] Florence — There, get your revenge. [Then she leaves for the adjoining room.] [Charlie advances slowl}^ up to the old man, slaps his hand over his mouth, and stabs him ; in an instant brings him to the floor. He starts to leave, but hears approaching footsteps. [Enter Florence.] Florence — Fly ! Fly for your life! He is com- ing. [He starts to do so, but Victor is too close upon him, and he secretes in the corner of the room. Exit Florence. Enter Victor.] Victor — Helloo, what's the matter? [Steps quick.] My soul! What has happened? Is he dead? [He shakes him.] Doctor! Doctor! He 40 Maiden's Adventure. must have swooned. [He spies the dagger.] No! Good heavens! He is murdered ! Who could have killed him ? [Enter Florence as he draws the dag- ger from his breast..] Florence — Murder! Murder! You have killed my uncle! You have killed my uncle! [She pre- tends to weep, and kneels beside the prostrate body. Enter Diana.] Diana — Oh, Lordy! Oh, Lordy ! Done killed Massa Josh! Poor Massa! Who did done it? Who did done it ? [She claps her hands tagether. Enter Myra.] Florence — There stands the fiend who did the deed ! Victor — Myra. I did not. I found him with the dagger pierced in his heart. [He thuows the dagger from him; Myra falls senseless on the floor; Diana picks her up and carries her off. Victor fol- lows; Florence left alone.] Florence — Now^ is your time. Lose not a moment, or you will be seen. Fly, if you value your life. Chas. — Which way shall I go ? Florence — Go the way you came. [Exit Char- lie. She shoves him out.] Go! I have finished with you, and your reward 3'^ou will receive here- after, for the devil is a good paymaster. [She turns to view the dead body. While so doing his eyes fly open. She gives one scream, turns her • eyes from his, falls on one knee, and looks around very scared. Curtain falls.] Maiden s Adventure. 41 .^^CT IFI'VE, Scene I. — Cave on Victor Herndons farm, one mile from West View. [Victor asleep, with a dim light burning; he talks in his sleep.] Victor— I knew you thought I was innocent ; now, Mvra. I can face the world. [He awakes, and partlj^ rises, and looks around a moment or two.] Ah I it's all a dream. Why did I awaken? 1 was so happy. Oh, if I could see her, and she would believe me innocent ! I will see her. I will bear it no longer. Myra ! Myra! I must see you to-night ! Oh ! my head is bursting. [Falls back on the bed.] Lucy, Lucy— not here. Myra will not believe me guilty, she knows my heart too well. O, Myra! if thou dost pronounce me guilty, 1 will live no longer; this night my spirit shall ac- company the spirit of the slain ! [He pulls out a bottle of poison.] This will I drink! Hush! what's that? Hasty footsteps. [He hides the bottle; enter Lucy, bearing a waiter.] Lucy, is that you ? Lucy— Yes, Massa; 'tis me. Eat your supper 42 Alfiiclcns A r] venture. now. I is got some good pan-cakes for you, and some good news, artcr you eat. Victor — What news, Lucy? Wh^it news? Speak, quick ! I must hear! Lucy — De 'tectives done took de train dis cben, and if you want to see Miss Myra, I think you kin, for Diana says she walks in de grove by herself 'most ehery night, and de moon is done ris now. Victor — Lucy, hand me my cloak. [She hands it to him.] Thank you, good Lucy; take this. [He hands her some money.] And if I never re turn, good-bye. You have cared for me; you shall be rewarded, if I live or die. Lucy— Massa, don't say dat, for i is only done mv duty. Victor — Say no more, Lucy — farewell. [Exit Victor. Lucy — I ain't guine say good-bye, for God ain't guine punish de innocent for de guilty, and I is guine follow Massa Victor wid dis here knife. [Draws a dagger.] And if anybod}^ do .trouble old mistress'es son, he is guine feel dis point. I'll show folks how old Lucy can carve. Old massa is dead and old mistess is dead, and dis here boy is all dat I know of, and when he dies I had just live die as not, so I is guine follow him. Yonder he is, walk- ing long dar just like he is guine walk in his grave. Poor massa. Go on ; I is guine follow you. [Exit Lucy.] Scene II. — Grove at West View. [Enter Victor.] Xlnidcii's Adventure. i-^> Victor — One month ago 1 was Victor Herndon, lull of hope for years of happiness, but now they are all bli^^hted. Yes, blif^^hted, perhaps, forever. All hopes, all hopes have fled. Nothing seems visi- ble now but death and disgrace. ♦ What am I in the eyes of the world ? A murderer, murderer, mur- derer, and the people thirsting for my blood. They may haveitifshe will give the verdict of not guilty, but if she says guilty— that I cannot stand. [He is silent awhile.] Will she walk to-night? Lucy says she walks this grove. Surely the acronical moon will tem])t her as it trav^els along its starry path- way, robing dull earth with a silvery mantle; but I, like a spirit, must vanish as it reaches the goal of day. O, Father, my Father, what have I done to displease Thee? [Enter Lucy.] Oh, heaven, de- fend me. [He falls upon the ground. Lucv starts toward him, but stops as he partly rises.] I must prove mvself innocent ; I must see Myra this night. I cannot bear to live while she believes me guilty. She cannot, she must not ; I'll see her to-night. If she believes me innocent, then T will give myself to the law ; but if not, I will die in her presence. [He rises and starts to leave the stage.] There— there she comes now. [He recoils and secretes. Enter Myra and walks up and down the stage very slowly, followed by Victor, but unobserved. Enter Florence, unobserved, and exits immediately.] Myra— 0. what a poor unfortunate ceature I am. I am unhappy; yea, miserable. Why w^as I not left wherelknewnothingbut happiness? Why 44 Maiden's Adventure. was I brought here amid sorrow and affliction, and to witness murder, and to die an untimely death? Oh, Glenmore, Glenmore, my fortune for Glenmore. [Glenmore, the asylum from which she was taken.] 0, Father, why did'st thou frown upon me in the hours when I was so happy? Brighter days than those never shown upon my 3'oung life, nor darker days can never than these. I am a child of misfor- tune. Would that I had died wh^n I was an infant, I would have been spared this hour; and yet there is one to come that I cannot survive. They will hang him I know, though he is innocent ; and I am accused as his accomplice in the murder of mydetir old uncle. [She weeps. Victor makes his presence known.] Victor— Myra, who says you are an accomplice in the murder of your uncle .'' [She is frightened at first at his appearance.] Myra — Leave me, leave me. How dare 3^ou ap- proach me with your hands yet stained with my uncle's blood ? Leave me ! Victor — Murder! murder! two-fold murder! How can I stand it? Oh, Myra, Myra, you can- not mean it. I who love you better than m\^ life. Fain would I have given my life a hundred times to save vou the sorrow of this hour. Oh ! kill me if vou will ; your sentence is death. I will leave you, and that forever. [Starts to drink the poison.] Myra — Victor! Victor, you shall not. [Snatches the vial.] I know you are innocent [She embraces him.] Victor, they say you killed him. Maiden s Adventure. 45 Victor — Myvzx, how could you utter those words? Myra — I don't know, Victor; but tell me. how came your dagger to be the one that killed my uncle? Victor — My dagger that killed him? [Springs from her.] Oh ! the fiend ! Who could have been so base? It's enough! I see it all! \iy dagger, Myra, I lost a week before the murder. My soul ! it must have been — Myra — It must have been who, Victor? Victor — No one, Myra, no one; I accUvSe no one; I will die first. [Enter John Hill and two others; Myra tries to shove him away.] Myra — Victor, fly. [He does not move,] John — Herndon, you are my prisoner. Victor — Very well, sir; I will go. Myra — No, Victor, you shall not go. John — Miss, you must leave, or 1 will arrest you as his accomplice. Victor — You lie; \^ou will not, 3'ou base villian. [He rushes at him ; John Hill draws a dagger; Vic- tor catches his arm with one hand and his throat with the other; the two men rush to John's as- sistance; Myra jumps between one and Lucy the other with a knife.] Myra — Touch the innocent man if you dare. Lucy — And I is guine stick dis here knife right through you. [Victor throws John Hill from him, and grabs Lucy's knite.] Victor — Now, Hill, we are equal. [They fight; 46 Maiden's Adventure. Victor disarms him, and starts to kill him ; Mjra rushes between them.] Myra— Enough, Victor; spare him. [Curtain falls a few moments, to change time.] Alnidens Adventure. 47 (Twelve months Inter.) Scene I. — Same place. [Enter John Hill, dressed in the apparel of a ghost.] John — I wonder if she will come this way to- night. If she does, Victor Herndon nor any one else will save her. I will represent the ghost of Joshua Hill, and if I am not mistaken in the girl, she will swoon at his appearance, and 1 will ad- minister this [pulls out a vial], which will send her to k(gep his company. He willed her all, and left me penniless; but I'll be rich before another day. [He looks to see if she is coming.] She comes. [He secretes. Enter Myrn.] Myra— To-morrow, to-morrow, and Victor is no more. This night will I spend in prayer for him. It was in this grove where first I met him. It was in this grove where first he said he loved me. It was in this grove where we spent many happy hours together. It was here where I first knew he was innocent. O, Father! let him not suffer for the crime of another. [She hears a noise behind her; John Hill approaches; she looks back.] 48 Maiden's Adventure. What's that, a spectre? [He advances slowly.] Could I laugh, I would. Times are desperate, but not scary. I know that form ; I have seen it be- fore; it is not a phantom. Ghost -My ra, I am thy uncle's ghost. Myra — If thou art m\^ uncle's ghost, what say- est thou. Ghost — Why did'st thou lend a hand to sla^^ me? Myra — If thou ait a ghost, why dost thy lie? I will know^ thee better. Throw off thy disguise or you shall die. [Draws a revolver and points it at him.] Be quick, sir; I am in earnest. I know your intentions, vsir, are evil. Be quick. [He throws off his disguise.] John Hill. Just as I thought. This, sir, is your second attempt at my life. Try it no more. Leave me! Your crimes shall never be known. [Exit John Hill.] 0, what cruel times! what cruel times! My life is sought, and for what cause I know not of, unless for the mammon of unrighteousness. He and Florence are my cousins, and the next heirs to Uncle Josh's estate, w^hich I now hold. Poor, wncked souls! Before the setting of another sun they will be the rightful heirs to his estate, for I will be no more. [Enter Florence, walking in her sleep.] Florence! What brings her here ? His reprieve ! his reprieve ! [She runs to meet her.] No ; she is asleep. Surely, she must be. [She touches her arm and tries to wake her.] Maiden's Adventure. 49 Florence— [Still asleep] : Let me go. I did not do it ; I did not. Let me go. It was he. Myra — What can be the matter? Florence, awake, awake. Why are you walking here asleep ? Do you kiiow it is dangerous? [She awakes.] Florence — [She catches Myra around the neck, then springs from her.] What right have \'ou in my room, Myra Gramer? Your intentions are evil. Leave me this instant. You breathe the air of wickedness. Go! Leave me, and hide your ofuiltv soul in the waters of the James. Go! It is vour name that gives vou libert\'. Myra — I will leave vou, but only to rid myself of evil company. But remember, the soil upon which vou stand is mine. No words from you can harm me now. Rut mark me well, Florence, that the terms upon which vou say I am spared may be yours. [Exit Myra.] Florence — [Bewildered]: Myra! M vra ! come back; come back. Spare me! spare me! O, did I dream aloud ? O, my head, ujv head ! Where ami? Where am I? I never was here before. I know not the place. I thought I was in my room. Kate! Kate! No; here are trees; here is ground. Myra! Mvra ! come back. I know not which way to go. How came I here? Am I — can I be in hell? 1 feel as if I were — I were suffocating. The air smells sulphureous. Oh, Victor! forgive me. [John Hill passes through the grove some distance from her.] Oh! what is that? [She starts first one 50 Maiden's Adventure. way and then the other, to leave the stage. Enter Catherine, Florence's servant.] Cath. — Miss Florence I Miss Florence! what is de matter? I has looked eberywhar for you. Florence— Oh, Catherine! Catherine! did you see it? Did you see it? Cath. — See what, Miss Florence? Florence — A ghost. Cath. — No, Miss Florence, I didn't seed anything like dat. I spek you seed me when 1 was looking for you. Ha! ha! ha! dat will do; I looks like. a ghost. Florence — Catherine, take me from this place. Cath. — Follow me, den, Miss Florence; I know de way. [Exit both. Scene closes.] Scene II. — Three o'clock in the morning. Myra's room. [M^^'a asleep on a divan. Enter Diana.] Diana — Something guine wrong round here; my mind tells me so.' Here 'tis three o'clock in de morning and I ain't closed dese eyes. [She goes to Myra's bed and finds her not there.] Hi ! whar Miss Myra ; whar she? [She looks 'ground and finds her on the divan.] Here she is, poor honey; hasn't gone to bed yet. Miss Myra — poor child, she's sleep without a bit of kiver on her. [Gets a blanket and throws over her.] Ah, dese is dread- ful times, dreadful times; but nobody is guine harm dis child while dis old nigger is here. I is guine stay right here 'till she wakes. What's dis here? [Finds her revolver.] A pistol. Dis is de right Maiden's Adventure. ">1 thing for dese times, I tell you, cliikl. I 'spician something, and spician somebody. Dey is giiine hanir Massa Victor, but he didn't kill Massa josh, and de same one dat had a hand in dat, is guine harm dis child. Dis nigger ain't no fool. So I is ouine watch dis child. I is— hush ! hush! I hears some one coming; I is guine hide and see who 'tis. [Takes the revolver and secretes. Enter Florence.] Florence— Asleep; ves, and thou shalt slee)3 forever; the dead tell no tales. You have heard too much to live; so inhale this sweet perfume and die. [She advances to her bed.] Not here! Ah, there. [She creeps to her side and takes from her bosom a vial.] Smell and die. Diana— [Steps in front of her with a drawn re- volver.] Not to-night. Florence— Take this, and let it still your tongue. [Hands money to Diana.] Diana— Leave dis place, dat's.all I ax you. [Flo- rence walks backwards off the stage. Scenecloses.] Scene ///.- [Myra in the woods reading Victor's farewell letter.] Myra— [Reading] : Dearest of all, when this, my final farewell, reaches you, perhaps FU be no more. Grieve not for me.; I know what you have suffered on my account. It is God's will that I should die for the crime of another; he knows that I am inno- cent, and you believe me so. I have no fear of death. Let the world believe as it will ; so you be- 52 Maidens Adventure. licve nie innocent, I can die without a pang. The da J will boon come w^hen I will be forgotten. Fare- well, Mjra, until we meet again in a better world. Myra — 0, why was I born to see this da\^ — a da\' of injustice? Had I not been born, Victor would this day be free. Oh ! say not, Victor, fare well, for I will accompany thee. The same vial with which thou did'st attempt thy life shall end my misery. Victor, Victor! I come. [Starts to drink, but hears some one coming.] What ! Some one coming to disturb my last hour? Who can it be, that conies to this lonely spot? I w^ill ab- scond. [She absconds. Enter Florence Hill and Charlie Crane.] Myra — [Aside]: There; I see it all. He is the murderer. Chas. — Florence, you scheme acted splendid. But Herndon, poor fellow\ I feel sorry for him. I wish it was some one else; but he is better pre- pared to die than I am, so let him go. When do you intend to fulfill _vour promise, Florence? AIyra — [Aside] : Oh ! can I not save him ? [She looks at her watch.] I have but one hour. He shall not die.] Florence — O, never mind 'the promise. W> will see to that in the future. Herndon is not dead yet. Chas. — No, he is not dead ; he has an hour yet to live. Florence — Yes; but should the vsecret be known in this hour, what would become of you? Maiden s Adventure. 53 Myra — [Aside.] It shall beknown. [Shewrings her hands, and looks at her watch.] Will the}^ never go ?] Chas. — Yes, and what will become of vou ? Florence — You killed him ; I did not. Chas. — Yes; you planned, and I executed; and, as the old saying is, you are as deep in the mud as I am in the mire. Florence — No; I am not. Chas. — Ha! ha! ha! you grow weak; never mind, the debt will soon be paid. [They hear Fome one whistling.] Florence — Hush; someone is coming; let's go. [They leave for other parts of the woods. Enter Paul ; Myra runs to meet him.] Myra — Paul ! Paul ! bring me Grace, bridled and saddled, to the big oak! lose not a moment! Fly! fifty minutes, and all is lost ! [Exit Myra. Scene closes.] Scene IV. — Michaux 's Ferry. [Enter ferr\ man.] Ferryman — No crossing here to-day ; water is too high. The James is furious, and she is still rising. [Enter Myra.] Myra — Ferryman! ferryman! take me across! quick ! quick ! Ferryman — Not to-day, Miss; not to-day; wa- ter is too high. Myra — Ferryman! ferryman! say not so! I am in haste — be quick! I'll give you a hundred — Pll give you a thousand — take me across ! 54 Maiden's Adventure. F. Man — It would do me no good, Miss; we would be washed away. Myra— Then, I will go if I sink. [She plunges into the river.] Scene closes. Scene V. — People on the way to the hanging. Scene VI. — Victor on the gallows. [Enter Bill Robertson, a rough old farmer.] Bill R. — Stand aside here; stand aside, and let me sec it well done; make a good job, John, or let me tie the knot. Sheriff — All right, Robertson, you may tie the knot. Robertson — Helloo ! he is quite willing. [Sheriff reads the death-warrant.] Sheriff — Victor Herndon, have you anything to say? Victor — Only a few words, sir. Gentlemen, I am standing upon the verge of the grave, only a few moments to sa}^ farewell to the world. I have no hope for life now ; no one can save me, although I am an innocent man. I do not dread death, but its the disgrace of the death I am compelled to die I stand tinder sentence of the law for the crime of another, hut it is mv fate, and I have become rec- onciled. Gentlemen, 1 am accused of the murder of Joshua Hill, a man whose life I fain would have died to defend. I had no cause to kill him, but upon his life depended my future happiness. I went to ask him to promote my happiness by giving me the hand of his niece, when I found my own knife Maiden s Adventure. 55 pierced into his heart. How could they £iccuse me of murdering Joshua Hill, a man whom I loved; a man who has saved my life more than once? The fiend who did the act aimed well, for he pierced his very heart. I have provided in my will two thou- sand dollars for the one that will bring to justice the true murderer of Joshua Hill. I am through; do vour dutv ! Sheriff — Herndon I pity you, I believe you are an innocent man. It grieves me beyond expres- sion, that it is my duty to perform this act of the law upon you. Robertson you can tie the knot, if you will. Robertson — But I don't will ; you can tie jour own knots. Sheriff — I will give twenty dollars to any man who will tie the not, and pull the trap. Farmer — I'll tie it. [Starts to mount the scaf- fold.] Robertson — No you won't. [Jerks him down.] I'll kick this foot clear through you, you scoundrel. [While they are talking, the sheriff ties the not, pulls the cap, and is al)out to pull the string, when Robertson spies him.] Neither shall you, sheriff. [Levels his revolver at him.] Sheriff — Robertson, you are interfering with the law. Robertson — I care not. Conscience is my law, and my revolver will execute its judgment; and if you pull that string, somebody will have to hang me, and that won't be 3'ou. That lad is innocent, 56 Maiden^s Adventure. and he shall not be hanged. [The crowd shouts no! no! They hear a faint voice in the distance.] Myra — Wait! wait! wait! [Enter Myra. Gen- tlemen, he is not guilty ] Robertson — My soul! what is it? An ange^ that confirms my opinion. Myra — Gentlemen, the murderer of my uncle is Charlie Crane. He is now on West View farm. I heard him confess the crime. I left him there three- quarters of an hour ago. Victor — My soul! that's Myra. Remove this cap. [She mounts the scaffold. Loud cries of re- lease him.] Myra — Victor, you are free. [She clasps him around the neck.] Robertson — I'll have him, if I have to swim the river. Sheriff — So will I. [Cuts the ropes from Vic- tor. Deputy, look to the prisoner until I return. Look, Herndon, the maiden swam the river.] Myra — Yes, the ferryman would not bring me across; but Grace knew my errand and brought me safely across. Robertson — Hurrah! for the Maiden's Adven- ture. [Scene closes.] Scene VII. — Woods at West View. Florence and Charlie alone. Chas. — W^ell, Florence, the tragedy is over, and Herndon is no more. Florence — What does it matter? I have no Maiden's Adventure. 57 sympathy for him, but I have my revenge. I leave this place to-morrow, never to return again. Chas.— Where will you go, dearest? [She frowns.] Florence — I know not where. Chas. — What about your promise? Florence— O, never mind the promise. Chas.— But you promised to be my wife. Florence— 0, promises are made to be broken. I denounce them all. Chas.— Then I must have the fifty thousand. Florence— Fifty thousand! You are very lenient. If you want fifty thousand, you must seek it elsewhere. On the highway, perhaps, you will find it. Chas.— Florence, I am in earnest. I am ruined, and 1 must have your money. If you refuse I will accuse you of the murder to the law\ Florence— What do I care for that ? I can do the same. [Enter Paul with a gun.] Paul— [Aside] : I is tired of watching dese folks. I is guine make myself known. I is guine 'pear 'fore 'em, and if he run, I is guine 'bay Miss Myra's orders. I is guine shoot. [Steps before them; they rise from their seat, but sit down after seeing w^hoitis.] Sarvant, Missus? [Bows low.] Chas.— What are you hunting? Paul— Jail birds, sar. Chas— Why, you mean jay birds. Paul— No, sar; I means jail birds. 58 Maiden's Adventure. Chas. — Well, change your hunting ground ; you won't kill any around here. Paul — I don' know, sar, 'bout dat. I ain't guine fur. If dey fly, run, or walk, I is guine shoot. Chas. — Florence, what does the fool mean? [Paul walks a few steps.] Look, Florence! What means this? [They see Robertson and the sheriff coming.] Florence — Fly for your life ! It is the sheriff. [He starts to leave; Paul confronts him with his gun.] Paul — My missus told me to shoot you if you run, and I is guine do dat, sure. [Enter sheriff and Robertson.] Sheriff — Crane, you are my prisoner. Chas. — For what am I your prisoner^ Sheriff — For the murder of Joshua Hill. Robertson — And you have just long enough to live to get to the gallows. Chas. — I will go, but not alone. There stands my accomplice. [Points his finger at Florence.] Florence — I will not go. I die first. [She stabs herself, and presents a short scene of death, as the curtain slowly falls.] LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 400 400 6