PS 635 .29 E79 Copy 1 •Z3 tl3 )K ^^1)ESS^ /IN OR ©he Veiled prophet of B^^^^^ ^ssan. fiN ••• Ol^IGINAL V ^LAY, IN FIVE ACTS. - BY - MRS. MEDORA^ESTES. Thomas Moore's poem has no connection whatever with this revised production, except as the Poet and Authoress meet in scenes of History, the Authoress confining herself strictly to the latter and her own original romance. THE LEAST INFRINGEMENT Upon this revised play, viz. : Edessa, or The Veiled Prophet of Khorassan, or the production of i88o, viz. : The Veiled Prophet of Khorassan, or Mind and Heart, WILL BE SEVERELY HANDLED BY THE LAW. Copyright, 1889, by Mrs Medora Estes. EDESSA. OR THE Veiled Prophet ^ ^ of Khorassan. AN ORIGINAL DRAMA, IN FIVE ACTS. BY Mrs. Medora Estes, CINCINNATI, 0. •5^^- cincinnati : The Ohio Valley Pres? 1889. PERSOJSrS OF THE DRAMA. Hakem The Veiled Prophet of Khorassan. Ahvern A Kazbek Hunter. Mahadi Twenty-second Caliph of Arabia. PB.INCE Haroun Son of Mahadi. Caspian A. Kazbek Fouadling. Lamar, ) ,' Sae;e and Wit of the Caliph's Court. DOTTO MURR, ) BXONDELLO, ) w t rw r 1 1 ' > Sons ot Dame r adel. Orian, ' DoLEGA Y The Prophet's Egyptian Slave. NiPPiE A Mountain goat — Thibet-shawl. Edessa, ^ Circassian Twin Sisters— Edessa, Prie.«tpss. CORINNA, j Carmeah Njece'of the Caliph. Alshizaram Wife of Caliph Mahadi. Madinr Captive Greek Girl, Caliph's Conrt. Dame Fadel Mother to the Mountain Poor. Katy-dtd Child of Nature. EXITS AND ENTRAXCES. R. Right. R. V. E. Right Upper Entrance. L. Left. G. C. D. Grand Center Doors, C. Center C. D. Center Door. D. Door. Time — Seventh Century. m TMPg6-0C7297 EDESSA; THE VEILED PROPHET OF KHORASSAN. ACT I— SCENE I. Location — Kazbek Mountain. A hamlet of picturesque scene. A mountain-road leading into the Kasbek Heights. Near back of stage, ahiiost center, a knoll of earth, rock, and moss. Orain seated upon the knoll with his mountain-goat beside him. In view at L., a rustic cottage. Orian. \_Looking all around.'] Did you speak to me, Nippie? \_Laughs.~\ Well, well ! I just do wonder where you did get that name ; it'e mighty pretty, though, and I guess it means you like to nip green things. Is that the reason you follow me 'round, Nippie? That's a sweet silver bell you wear; Sister Nightingale gave it to you, didn't she, Nip ? Katy-did. 'iOutside,~\ Nip-e-e-e, Nippie, Nippie, Nippie, Nip! Nip-e-e-e ! < Orian. Good ; there 's Katy-did. Hide, Nippie ! Oh, that little green witch, she 's just like a spider : every time she sees me she weaves her web around my heart. Ever3^bod3^ loves her, but nobody owns her. Just wait till my grandfather's grand- father dies, and I'll make a bid. Now, mother is always finding poor children in baskets, just like other people find sick cats and kittens. Sister Edessa Nightingale had gold in her basket, and Katy-did had nothing but rags: poor thing, she is ju.st so much like a Katy-did that has nothing in this wide world but its own xigly little song But stuff" me with dried apple-pie and hoiiey, I don't know which I love the best, Sister Edessa or Katy-did. Katy-did. Nippie, Nippie, Nippie,' Nippie, Nip-'e-e-e ! Orian. I'll purtend Iin asleep, and maybe she'll kiss me. Enter, L. Kitty-did, dancing and singing, loith bag, basket, broom, and rake. (3) Katy-did. And then we'll dance and then we'll sing, We'll jump and circle in a ring; Ah ! then I'll see my future fate, The girls all love and the boys all hate. [Orian looks up.'] Tra la la la, tra la la la la, tra la la la la. [Oriah asleep.'} Oh, you wicked little goat ! Why did n't you come when 1 called you ? Orian. You great old sleepy lump, you ! are you dreaming 'bout me ? I'll wake you up. [Thron-'S a kandful of corn at him.] Orjan. [Springing up.] Katy-did ! KatV-did— Katy-didn't. \_Run.'< round the knoll L. Orian after her, Orian trying to kiss her running from.] Now stop, Orian ! or I'll throw this salt at you. [Throws herself upon the ground, L., Orian sta7iding beside her.] Please, old sweetness, take this to Xippie. Orian. [Grinning.] Well! [aside] 1 should rather think 1 would, "Old Sweetness." [Riins off.] Katy-did. Oh, my, but he is nice! just the smartest dear boy in this world, if I do.tease him till he is almost a skeleton. Orian, sit down here and let me tell you something. [Orian looks fool- ish,- and backs ■out.'] Orian. Old sweetness, again. Katy-did. Oh, come, come! [Orian sits down] just think, give a guess what I have been doing to-day, Orian. Stealing the cream and a piece of pie wlien Faddie was out? [Katie shakes her head, no.] Been catching butterflies. and talking with the handsome peddlers, in the road? Ah-a-a-a ! [Point-ing his finger at her, she .shakes her head.] Katy-did. No! [_Coiinting her fingers.] Washed all the dirty clothes in- the kingdom. Mended all the rag-tags and bob-tails in. the- world. [Orian shakes head, no; Katy-did shakes no.] 1 take that. one back. Lady Edessa does that, and helps make the clothes, don't she? [Both shake yes.] But I'm sure I have swept allthe .land for miles around. Milked a hundred cows and washed tell thousand dishes. [Orian groans.] Oh, I am so tired, and now the worst of it all is, I must wash my face and comb my hair for the dance to-night. I tell you what. Old Sweetie [Orian convulsed, put.s hU arm around har.] I am just glad I haven't got but one dress.. [Looks down at his-arm.] Now, Orian, how old are ypu-.'^ Orian.. Well, mother says I am eighteen years old the very- next time I And my birthday. Katy-did^ Take it away, then; take your arm away^ you ar-Uit old. enough, you might hug too tight, you know. You must be-twenty-one years old, and have. your mother teach you how. Listen! ^ There is some one coming; run to the rocks .and keep Nippie company. [Orian runs.] Practice, hugging Nipple, Orian, [Laughs.] Enter, R., Blondello, blustering around, Blondello. Where's Nightingale, Red Top ? OriAiN. Don't know. What's the matter, Blondello ? birds scarce ? Blondello. No ! neither is your smart indifference. [Aside^^ Blast me ! but I would give half I am worth to make that fellow fear me, gentle as he seems ; he would take a life to avenge the wrong of a friend. Where is your lady sister, I say ? Orian. Don't know, I say! So there's an end on it. Blondello. [Seriously, aside.'] This is the first time I have: missed her in the twilight, and, by the gods, it will be the last, should I find her with Ahvern. Since our quarrel we are ac- knowledged rivals. Oh, how I love the girl, and hate the man ! They shall never wed ; I swear it ! Never ! while this brain is warm to plot and defeat. Little the}^ know the power I hold. Knowing his birth, 1 have aent a message to the Caliph, extolling this noble hunter for his strength and art in combat — Death ! As- victor over me he shall go to the front, and pay for his laurels. Katy-did. [Jumps up, takes the rake and rakes round Blondello's feet.] Mother Faddie said to rake up all the trash and then [drops rake and' pich^ up hrooiii] sweep — it — up — [following Blondello], in a little pile heap. [Sweeps on.'] Blondello. Let me see — 'tis now good time the Saracens were; sending for him to join them against the Greeks. Ha, ha! I'll have my revenge, if the " mills of the gods do grind slow." [Edessa and Ahvern heard with lute, .ringing in the mountain road. Katy-did drops her broom on BLO'SDEhuys feet, picks up basket and runs to meet Edessa, dancing and singing as alie goes, basket on her head. Blondello looking off.] They are coming from the moun^ tain. 0, the eijvious agony of soul urges me on to the throttling death-grasp. [Grasping his knife.] Fool that I am ! Orian's eyes are on me like a cat. I must control this madness. Ha, ha, ha I perhaps the Caliph will soon relieve me of m}^ misery. [Lute mu- sic. Edessa, Katy-did and Ahvern seen turning bend of road. Edessa playing, Ahvern singing. Edessa with wreaths, berries and garlands; Ahvern xoith bow and arrow and girdle of birds, helping- Katy-did carry basket of green. Orian standing upon the knoll, clap- ping his hands and ivaving], Orian. Here she comes, Nippie! our queen of the mountain. Berries, berries, for you, Nippie. Shake your head and ring your bell. Blondello, hide yourself. Master Ahvern is coming; the hero of the old Kazbek Mountain. You know what he can do. since he gave you back your broken blade. Run, Blondello, run ! Ha, ha, ha, ha ! Enter Caspian, L. Caspian. Orian! hi mercy where is ? Ah, there they; are! She is coming at last. My sister, my world and my alL Enter from road Katy-did and Ahvern with basket of green, they place it R. Edessa lingers to pick leaves from a- tree.] Welcome, Ahvern! Victory seems yours at all times, upon the earth [tpuch-- ing birds]- or in the air. Orian. \_Scraping long his right foot] Master Ahvern, most re- spectfully me. [Ahvern'&oiws and laughs, hands his bow -and arrow and girdle to Oria^, who puts the latter around him. Ahvern throws himself upon the ground, R. Orian and Katy examine basket.] Enter Ei?essa, dragging garland. Edessa. Dear brother, look! Only see what beautiful flow- ers. I've had a perfect war with nature. xVll for the dance to- night. Just see my hands. The wicked little briars, how they did pull and scratch rather than give up their little sisters. Caspian. Brave little briars. I honor to their silent wrath [Ais arm around her'], if they have a little sister like mine to pro- tect. Edessa. Oh, but 1 found them out, hiding beneath the creep- ing vines, or like children pretending to sleep upon the moss. Some nodding their velvet heads from the cool shadows of a roek, playing bo-peep with the merry sunbeams and kissing the pass- ing zephyrs with their sweetest breath, like lovely imprisoned fairies. [Orian listening.] Orian. I am so sorry 1 could not go with you, Nightingale, but there was the milk to be churned, and the wood to be cut. Poor, dear little hands. [Bows low and kisses them.] Edessa. Wh}',' Orian, whf^t a gallant knight yuu'd make. Kise with the laurel of honor. [Plarcs a wreath upon his head; Orian takes attitude with bow and arrow; all laugh.] Now for the berries, and where's ray beautiful darling \_c'iinbi np the knoll], waiting so patiently ? Orian. [Following her.] I was just thinking of getting skerry about you, sister, when Katy-did woke me up. Katy-did Katy-didn't! Orian. Katy-did! but what made you stay so long? Edessa. Ah, that's a secret! but I'll confess. [Coming front.] Last evening I actually begged Ahvern to give one-half the day in exchange of birds for flowers. Caspian. Ha, ha! Ahvern ! what a bitter task. Ahvern. Well, somewhat irritating. Very little poetry, i assure you.' Many thorns in our pathway and pleiltv of thistles and briars in our fingers. However. T am content having cap- tured first my Nightingale with even the song she sings. [All laugh sitting beside basket, R. Edessa and Katy-did weaving green wreaths. Orian and Caspian breaking branches in small pieces, sitting.] Orian. But, sister Odessa, see. the moon is up. What made you stay so long? [Aside. Blondello told me he would steal her from Master Ahvern and I fear he will.] Edessa. Hush-sh — Orian — don't! [Orian weeps. Edessa goes to him.] What can be the matter? You precious, good boy, sister did not go alone ? i will tell you all about it. Come, now, cheer up ! You never want me to have one little wee secret, do you [sits by her], dear old pet? Come, wipe your eyes. No more tears. This is to be the happiest night of all the year. Well, I must plead guilty of a superstitious nonsense. For a long time — ever since that gypsy came into our hamlet — I have had a childish anxiety to have my fortune told by the light of the har- vest moon upon the great shadow rock of Old Kazbek. 'Tis said the revelation comes but once a yeat-. Ahvern, like any other man, laughed at my desire. Still, he lead me there, and now, lis- ten ! Caspian. The great shadow rock. Why, they say 'tis haunted. Ori.-vn. \_Lookl.nfi ivUd.'\ The great thunder rock. People say there's^ whore all the thunder comes from. Did you see a goblin- hob or a h()l)lingob? A fellow told me that's where they live. Edessa. a what? A hobgoblin? No. nrtl Orian, in all this big world I am sure we will never find one. [Oktan faking off the gir head. 6o(«.s, and reads.] Holv Allah ! 9 Edessa. Oh, God ! Have the shadows already fallen upon us ? Ahvern. \_Unsheathing his sword, lifts it.l In the name of the Most High God, I obey the voice of my king and country ! \_Shenthes his sivord.'] With a few words to those I love I am ready even now. My friends! Our joys to-night, perhaps for me will be the last, take with it memory, my thanks for all the past. Caspian, as a king would guard his purest crown jewel, I give into your trust my only star of hope ; as friends we have loved, as broth- ers we part. Dame and Katy-did, mother and sister, Heaven can only repay, the pure love and care bestowed for years upon me. Orian, I give to you my belt, my bow and quiver. When alone among the birds and flowers of dear old Kazbeck, Orian pray for me ! Edessa \_foldin(i her in his arms], my faith and country call for help. The hero at home must prove no coward abroad. Be brave, my Nightingale ! Take this [imdasping a chain from his neck, clasps it around Edessa's.] 'Tis the amulet of love; wear it upon thy breast; and, Oh, God! should the time e'er come thou wouldst forget me for another, in heaven's name I ask that thou will send it back through some faithful messenger. But if all the powers combined should fail to separate our hearts, though we pass through the shadow of death, on earth or in heaven, I'll claim thee my bride. Farewell ! [Starts off.] Edessa. [Starting after him. xoildly.'] Oh, Ahvern, Ahvern ! shouldst thou fall by the foe, and a slow, lingering death pin- ion thy agonized soul, send me word by an Arab brave, that swift on the back of my Persian steed, I may dash from the moun- tain's topmost height down to the silent depths of the lonely gorge and bear my haunted heart in search of thee ! Or, if thou shouldst die — and never again our hands be clasped this side of heaven, I swear to seek, through God and His priests, the only path to thee. On that golden bridge of Sanctity, that spans from Time to Eternity, I will await thee, Ahvern. Farewell! [Martial m,imc. Tableau.] Scene II.— Elapse of Many Months. Mountain Scene. The great shadow rock. At its base a broad ledge covered with Persian robe. Edessa asleep upon the ledge with one hand clasping the amulet. Guardian angel above the rock. Soft music. Angel. Edessa, child of a Christian race, the clouds of sor- row are gathering fast above thy fair head. Be pure as thou art and brave. God's mercy will attend thee. Thy royal father and loving sister live to bless thee. Heaven's reward will crown the end. Enter Blondello, R. Blondello. Ha, ha! Alone with her at last. From my story she thinks Ahvern dead. Now the amulet must be returned. As he still lives and I have failed through the guise of a lie to win her I shall resort to a venomous sting, at the very core of her lov- er's heart, which will separate the proud hero from his promised 2 10 bride forever. She is doubtless of illustrious birth and worth a mighty contest. This magic almond flower is said to so charm its victim in slumber as to make it smile and talk. Hark, I have sent them astray in a short road at last to meet me here. As friend Rustram leaves for the army I must secure this amulet, which he will return to Ahvern with an honest account of his last inter- view and this our betrothment scene. ]^Soft music.'] [Blondello kneels beside Edessa. Holds the flower to her nose and takes the chain from her neck. Sits at her head upon the ledge, lifts her form into his arms, places one arm around his neck, still holding the floiver to her nose.] Edessa. \_Smiling.'] My own brave love. Blondello. Sleep, sleep my darling ! Thy lover will guard thee from harm. f Edessa. \_Starting up, smiles, falls hack upon Blondello's breast.] Blondello. Now she is mine ! What more can I ask as a proof of her faithlessness to Ahvern. [Edessa, from his hand too close, struggles for breath and throios the flower from him.] Blondello. Heavens ! Through my nervousness I have held my hand too close. What a fool I am. Now all will be lost. Why in the name of Pluto don't they come. That tempting thing ! I would give the booty of a year this moment to pos- sess it. Edessa. \_Moves her arms sloioly falling from his neck.] Blondello. \_Alarmed.] Ha, she wakes ! Sleep on, sweet love, and dream of future joys. Edessa. l_Rises and looks inquiringly at him, as if half asleep.] Who is it? Where am I? Blondello. [Turning his face aioay.] 'Tis Ahvern, fear not. Edessa. \_Struggling with arms pinioned.] Oh, heaven, that voice! No, no; 'tis not Ahvern. 'Tis the deadly cobra that holds me now within its coil. Release my form or brave an injured woman's wrath. Blondello. [ With desperation.] Nay ! 'Tis now too late ! Thou hast slept upon this breast, within these arms. The world shall know my triumph ! In virtue's honor thou art bound, and dare no longer defy my love ! Edessa. I do, I do ! and scorn the vile and treacherous art of gaining power through sleeping helplessness ! If thou wilt not release me honorably, then I swear to denounce thee to the law as the assassin of Carmeah, the Arabian maid who fell from thy bloody hand ! [Edessa thnnvs Blondello off, who staggers pale and trembling and drops the amulet] Blondello. [ Wildly.] 'Tis false ! I tried to save her from the mountain thieves. What man or woman will dare stand as witness against me ? Edessa. I alone ! And will pledge my soul to two witnesses and one thief! Blondello. Two witnesses; pray, who was the other? Edessa. The mountain brave — Ahvern ! Blondello. [Grasping his hair.] Ahvern ! [Aside.] And 11 still he lives. May the imps of the Infernal blast him soul and body in the very next battle. Edessa. Aye, Ahvern ! Could his voice be heard from the tomb he would brand thee guilty of death. \_Sees the amulet; springs to pick it up.'\ Great God ! my cherished amulet ! [Blondello catches her hand, holding ^Y.] Edessa. In the name of the saints, what dost thou mean ? Ah, thou didst steal it when like a child I slept. \_Tears from her hosomi a diamond necklace.^ Behold the bait that tempted thee to take the life of Carmeah [Blondello /a^fe back'], found concealed among thy clothes ; and dare ever again to cast the shadow of a spider's thread across my life of purity. \_Titrns to leave him. Blondello creeps up behind her, but when about to spring is met by Caspian. Dame Fadel and Rustram enter, R.] Caspian. Sister, friend Rustram wishes to say farewell before leaving to join the Saracens. Rustram. [Approaching and taking Edessa's hand.] Yes, sweet lady, with invitation from Blondello I came, and seek from one so pure a parting blessing. Edessa. Indeed, I thank thee for so great a compliment, and in saying farewell, I beseech [Rustram kneels] the Almighty to keep thee soul and body. Rustram. [Rising and kissing her hand.] Lady, farewell ! [Exit Rustram and Blondello.] Caspian. [Leading Edessa, L.] Nightingale, what has hap- pened ? So strange a look upon thy face. If Blondello is at fault by all that's holy I'll make him pay to me a handsome price. [Taking both hands.] Edessa. [With head boived.] We have merely quarreled, brother. I have been very weak, you know, and no doubt in the future he will understand me better. Enter Katy-did, wrapped in a big table cover, running out of breath, one shoe off in hand. Katy-did. Oh-o-o-o, my ! Oh-o-o-o, my ! [Shivering and shak- ing.] Edessa. Poor darling! What is the matter? [Squeals and catches her breath.] Katy-did. Ghost, ghost, ghost! Oh-o-o-o — o-o! Real live ghosts. No graveyard dead ghost. Oh-o-o ! Got soldiers heads on in bright day-light. Poor Orian, he must be in a vault by this time. Oh, don't let them get me ! I never will flirt with the peddlers again. I'll darn all the holes in my stockings, and say my prayers all the time. Enter Orian loith a big flourish of parchment. Orian. Oh, sister, sister Edessa ! Lookee, lookee here ! Katy-did. [Running to him.] Orian, Orian! are you alive? Orian. Alive! Well, I haven't examined myself, but I think I am. I hope I am. [Feels his head.] Dame. What is it? W^hatisit? 12 Oman. Read, read, Caspian ! Edessa. Pray, where did you get it, Orian ? Orian. Well, sister Nightingale, some big white soldiers like Sunday ghosts on big white horses — Katy-did. Sun. — Monuments by moonlight.— Orian. [Shakes his head yes.'] Told me to give it to the Lady Edessa. I asked them to feel at home and help themselves to water, when they all sot and grinned at me like so many fool sparks, and I grinned back. [Grins.l 0, fishhooks and poison, what a skerry set they are. Katy-did. I tell you, Orie, it made me sick with earache and lumbago. Orian. What's that ? Katy-did. Don't know. The Gypsy said she had it. Caspian. [Reads.'] MoKANNA Palace. Mem. 1, Hakem, Prophet of Khorassan, descendant of God, to gather the fairest and brave for the holiest lessons of heavenly love. 'Tis at the close of this sad year we mourn our priestess dead, and wait to crown thee purest maid as Virgin Queen of the White Clothed Realm. Thou, Edessa, would I place as priestess upon my throne. Edessa. Oh, joy, joy too great! Safe from Blondello. To be led by the Prophet o'er that golden bridge, Ahvern, to thee ! Orian. Say, sister Nightingale, don't go? Why them fel- lers look like so many walking tombstones of a dark moonlight night. Katy-Did. Please, sweet Lady Edessa, stay at home with us. I expect you'll have to sleep in a grave every night. [Cries.] Oh, ho, ho, ho ! don't go, don't go, don't go ! Orian. There, don't be so simple. This Prophet is a big giant king, as tall as that tree, and he wears a long white veil that floats all around him as he walks, like so many sheets propped high on a clothes-line ; and his white boys told me that you could see him fifty miles away. 0, cramps and blisters ! I hope I'll never see him. Katy-did. Fifty miles ! That's a big white 1 . Orian. No, no! I was wrong. It is the moon he makes that you can see so far away. Why, them boys trembie all over when they speak of it. Katy-did. Moon ! Does he make moons to sell ? Orian. [Puffing out his cheeks.] Yes, awful moons! Gob- hoblin's moons ! and they come out of a big, deep well. Katy-did. That's nothing ; I've often seen a moon and stars in our well. Orian. Yes ; but they didn't come out when you called 'em, like his does. Oh, gingerbread and pepper-sauce, I hope I'll uever see him ! 13 Katy-did and Orian. \_Both clasping Edessa. Orian and Katy-did on their knees.'] Please, please, sweet lovely sister, don't, don't go ! Edessa. [Kissing both.] Why, my faithful darlings ! you are both moonstruck. Have no fear, and I will tell you all about him. Orian. Do you know him, sister? Edessa. Only through that strange, strange traveler, who came one year ago. You remember that handsome kinglike man, who gave me Nipple and the Persian robe in exchange for the songs I sang? Katy-did. Remember ! I cried three days when he was gone. I was as much in love with him as he was with you. Orian. Katy-didn't. Katy-did. Katy-did ! and then his voice, and his way of talking ! such beautiful words ! I shall never forget. Oh, I was crushed ! I could just worship that man ! Orian. So was 1 — crushed — I loved him so. Maybe he was the big white Prophet in disguise, hunting for a priestess, to find the sweetest, purest flower of the mountain. Edessa. Oh, no ; but I really believed him to be a great man. Caspian. What was it, sister, he told you, pertaining to this Prophet? [Katy-did and Orian rise.'] Edessa. He said that the Prophet has power to view the world beyond, and hold communion with his God. He rules wdth love and seeks to share life's common burden daily with his people. While in return all nations flock with loyalty beneath his floating motto: "God and Freedom." So rapid his increase of power and splendor, that kings and bishops have cause to tremble. Dame. But the veil, Edessa: Why must he wear the veil ? EdesSxA.. That was my first question, mother, at which he laughing, answered : "A problem for the world to solve. Some deem it a disfigured face, or the loss of an eye from an arrow wound. Others, that the light of Divinity crowns the brow, de- nying sinful gaze the holy privilege of a saint. If I am permitted a voice with sage and philosophers — the truth is still veiled, and judgment gone astray." Then, with his hand placed lightly upon my head, looking an unutterable something into my ej^es, he said : " What would this little oracle proclaim ? What thinkest thou of the Prophet's veil, Edessa ?" Trembling and confused, I for moment bowed my head, then simpl^y answered. To me it seems a talisman, worn to sustain the purest homage, akin to awe, from the loftiest to the lowliest subject. lie wildly clapped his hands and almost shouted, "This shall be remembered; Solomon in all his wisdom could not have answered better." Go, now, Orian, bear our humble welcome to the Prophet's messengers, and say we a"\vait them here. Dame. [ With arms about Edessa.] Oh, Edessa, Nightingale, my child ! must we part forever ? Edessa. Nay, mother! Will you leave Blondello and go with me ? 14 Dame. Yes, Oh yes ! if the rest may go. Blondello has almost broken my heart. {^Softly.'] He is not my child. Edessa and Caspian. Thank God! \_Notes from the Prophet's Herald. Katy springs behind Caspian. Enter Orian with eight white-clothed officers. 1 First Officer. \_Bending loti\'\ Honored Lady, in the name of our Holy Prophet Chief, I present this message. Will await the answer. Edessa. My decision rests upon a word. \_Opens scroll and reads :] "Let the maiden bring her own selected friends that she may ever be happy." With thanks to God and his Prophet, I am satisfied the order shall be signed and all conditions filled without delay. Officer. \_Kissing her hand.'] May the Prophet's blessing at- tend you. Orian. Indian turnips and buttermilk! but he's a bold ghost. I never had the face to do that. Nippie'll be jealous. \_Soft music.'] Edessa. Farewell, dear old Kazbek ! Farewell to tlie past with its loved and lost. Ahvern ! no, no ! not farewell ! Thy spirit will follow where I go : hand in hand thou and my angel guardian. God ! to Thee, one little prayer to keep me pure and true. \_All kneel. The Angel appears above the rock with cross of crim- son jewels. Voices chanting. Tableau.] ' Scene III. Arabia — City of Bagdad. Evening in the Grand Saloon of the Caliph's Palace. Each side G. C. D. Banners " Night " and " Shadow." Center of stage small platform of flowers. Large mirror, L. \_Enter Lamar and DOTTO MURR.] Lamar. \_Reading.'] " Go to the Grand Saloon. Madine will then explain." Dotto, do you see the page ? DoTTO. I do! right before me with a pair of wings. In day- light or in darkness, with eyelids up or eyelids down, I see her always — CA^ery where — within my mind. Why, that child is stamped upon my heart like a plaster on a bruise. Lamar. [ With grunt.] Well, that sounds rather queer. If not intruding on some tender points, I'd like to interrogate this strange delusion. [Drawing near and stepping on Dotto's toes.] DoTTO. {Jivmping.] If you wish [limping] to avoid all tender points don't come quite so near my toes. They are not very well at present and besides not making any new acquaintances. Lamar. I beg your injured pardon! But, will you explain the similitude between Madine's image on your heart and a plas- ter on a bruise? DoTTO. [^I.S'irfg.] {By Jove, the old chip Is interested.) Well, it's simply this — I have had the queerest feeling down my arms into 15 my very finger tips, and it runs like lightning, while my heart, like a mouse that is tied to a string, keeps up the fun by jumping. Do you know what that is? Lamar. Well — hardly. DoTTO. IPerplezed.'] Can you remember— when a little boy — of getting into a great big swing, while from behind some friendl}'' chum gave an awful sudden push and sent you skimming into space, which caused the holding of your breath, combined with joy and fear? Lamar. Yes, many and many a time. I can almost feel it now — that wonderful expressionless effect of passing through the air. DoTTO. \_Excited.'] Can you, that wild and glorious thrill that nearly made you jump and risk a broken neck? Lamar. Ay, the expression is beyond the pen of man to trace. DoTTO. Yes, good ! that's it, that's it ! Lamar. What's it? The swing has nothing to do with the image and the plaster. DoTTO. But don't you understand ? Lamar. No, by the Roman gods, I don't ! DoTTo. [^dl.sjrfe.] I'm somewhat mixed myself. Let me see. Oh, yes ! now I know just where I am. Why, that's just the way I feel when I see Madine or touch her hand ; and when she goes away my heart is sore, until her face and smiles return and heal me, like a plaster on a bruise. Lamar. Well, this is more than strange. Perhaps you are paralyzed ! DoTTO. I know I am when she is near. Lamar. "When she." Why do you call him " her and she?" Madine's a boy. DoTTO. I beg your pardon, she's a girl. Lamar. Thunder and lightning ! He is ? Who told you this, and why this strange deception ? DoTTO. There's no deception ; never has been in the slightest way. As all before, in her position, have claimed the stronger- sex there has been no question asked. She is a little captive Greek, and her voice so charmed the Prince he set her free and raised her to this post of trust. Ah", here she comes ! Enter Madine, C. D. Madine. I am charmed to meet our majesty's friends, and would here impart the Caliph's great desire. The Prince having returned, and being weary, refuses courtly claims to meet the royal circle, His Grace, the counselor, and our genial friend among the honored guests expected here to-night. Alas ! alas ! for the butterfly's charm ! Or had I the wings of a bat, how gracefully I'd circle round their heads. DoTTO. And how awkwardly we'd aim at yours. Ah ! Madine, you had better be — 16 Madine. a bird, a floating feather-bed, and sail through air with — DoTTO. Beetles, June-bugs and bunible-bees. Ha, ha, ha! Come, my pretty dreamer, the hour is late for birdlings out of nest. You'd better go to roost, or accept a night-owl's wing. [Madine taJces Dotto's ar-m. Soityids from the Herald. Lamar, DoTTO and Madine advance, homing, to meet the Caliph. Music, '' Ccdiph of Bagdad:'] Enter, Soldiers arid Court. [Page, Caliph and Sultaness, Prince and Carmeah, all prom- enade. Caliph gives Sultaness to Lamar, Prince gives Carmeah to Gen. Caliph and Prince advance front.] Caliph, [i?.] Thinkest thou, Haroun, this treaty with Irene will prove lasting and secure? Prince. Indeed, so I trust. The Greeks have yielded to our greatest claim, and now my fears are nearer home. Caliph. Whom dost thou fear? Prince. Why, father, Hakem, the Prophet Veiled ! The comet man who threatens soon to sweep the universe. Within his trail the sudden splendor of his power and wealth the world has never known before. Hast thou not heard ? Caliph. Aye, aye! Prince. And dost thou not fear? Caliph. No more than at the sound of the cricket's chirp. Ha, ha, ha ! A veiled enthusiast, insane, no doubt, who wears a silver mask to hide a broken nose. These factions often rise, but sooner fall beneath our frown. Thy cousin, Carmeah, soon de- parts for Khorassan's sunny clime. Prince. Father, surely thou wilt not send her there? Caliph. Aye, her health demands. But since you so much fear, as Romans they may go. \_Leads Sultaness to a royal seat, R.] Prince. \_Aside.] From all that I have heard, our banners, " Night " and " Shade," will not rest long. This Prophet is our foe ! ' Carmeah. [L.] Please tell us the news from camp. Any thing from Rome? I'm hungry for a morsel of gossip. Prince. \^Taking her hand and kissing it.] Not from Rome, fair one; but from the camp quite a startling incident. \_Leads her to a seat, L.; all seated.] The night before I left the camp, an alarm was given ; a maiden fell at the door of my tent from the dart of a Saracen. The wound was slight. She fainted from the shock, but in falling naurmured, " I seek the Prince." She is be- lieved to be the proud avenger of our Christian slaves. I left command for her to follow. Sultaness. How very strange ! I can not think of her as spy. Prince. Carmeah, what of this mountain romance through old Kazbek ? Was the villain evet caught ? Carmeah. Indeed I know not. 'Twas said the thieves were a mountain band. We had all dismounted, and I thoughtlessly 17 strayed in search of flowers, when a blow on my head sent the life from my heart. I awoke, being nursed by an old dame and a beautiful mountain maid. The old dame told me many tales; but one of her adopted children, Caspian and Night- ingale — Caliph. [Starting up.] Caspian! [Aside.'] Oh, God! Go on, Carmeah, go on. Cabmeah. The boy, quite young, was found within the near- est grove. Caliph. What could indicate his rank ? Carmeah. Nothing! Ah, yes, I remember. The clasp of a broken necklace, with, diamond pendant; also, the name of "Caspian," carved in Greek. This was found caught among the curls 9f his hair. [Caliph covers his face.] Caliph. Carmeah, what of the maiden, Nightingale, and why so strangely named ? CarMeah. a year passed by. The hour was late, when a nightingale beside the window perched, and sang so loud and long, the boy awoke, and talking to the bird, aroused the older ones, when lo ! upon the porch, within a dainty braided bed, a fair and lovely infant slept. Upon its shawl, in golden threads, the name " Edessa." From that hour they called her Nightingale. Caliph. [ Wringing his hands and walking the floor.] Thank God ! Thank God ! Nothing else. Carmeah ? Carmeah. Within Edessa's basket, a fortune of gold, the old dame said. Caliph. [ Wildly.] To-morrow ! Oh, to-morrow, Arabia's swiftest messengers shall depart for the mountains of Kazbek. SiiLTANEss. Your Majesty, why so strangely affected? Caliph. [Confused.] The children of a friend, now dead, to whom I pledged my honor; but being deceived by a trusted guardian, all search having failed, I knew not of their existence. SuLTANESS. What other inembers, cousin, in that rustic home ? Carmeah. Blondello, Orian and Ahvern. The latter a noted Kazbek hunter, Prince. [Springing up.] Ahvern? Carmeah. Dost thou know him? Prince. Alas, yes! He joined our ranks. His valor soon outstripped his years. Was ensign of our banner '' Night." I saw him fall in its sacred folds and borne away to die. Carmeah. Alas, poor Edessa! SuLTANEss. Nay, he may not be dead, but captive to the Greek. Prince. Come hither, Madine! our evening bird. Let's have a song without thy wings. Come! Carol this unexpected gloom away. [Queen's page leads her front to King, hoivs. then leads her front, then bows to her and retires to place.] Song: "Captive Greek Girl." Caliph. Come one, come all ! We'll pledge with wine and drink to the valiant Ahvern. [Music behind scenes. Exit all except DoTTO and Madine.] 3 18 Madine. [Looking in the glass fixing herself. 1 I like Dotto bet- ter than wine. Dotto. [Front.^ By the god Apollo, now's my time! If I could only commence with the right words I might win her. Let me see ! She wants to be a bird. Now, what kind of a bird would she be like? [Thinks.^ Now I have it! [Looks all around, whis- tles.'] Polly, Polly ! pretty Poll ! Polly want a — cracker ? Madine. [Running to him.] Oh, Dotto Murr ! have we a par- rot here? I would love to see one. 'Tis said the}^ can sing and talk. Dotto. Well, I'll be willing to swear that this one can. Madine. Please show me where it is? Dotto. Ah, but that's a secret. Madine. Dotto Murr — this is a joke! I know it is. Dotto. Perhaps it is. Ha, ha, ha! But I'll give you my heart if that bird's not here within this very room. Madine. [Aside.] Give me his heart. Oh, now, don't I wish it was not here? Dotto. Now, Madine, if I show it to you will you give it to me? Madine. The bird is not mine to give. Dotto. Yes, it is. The Prince has set it free, and now it is all your own; but I'm sick to claim it mine. I love it so. Madine. [Spitefully.] Then you can have it. Such a silly man all about a funn}^ little bird. [Aside.] I hate anything he loves instead of me. Ah, me ! of all the birds I'd like to be its just the one he loves. • DoTTO. Sweetheart [taking her hands], do you promise ftiith- fully to never take it back ? Madine. I will never — never— never take it back. [Aside.] What a wonderful bird ! DoTTO. The bird is mine ! The bargain's sealed ! Come, Polly! Poll, jjretty Poll ! [Near the lake or mirj-or.] There it is! Look quick, Madine, before it flies. Do you see it? [Putting his arms around her.] Madine. No. Where? DoTTO. There, within my arms, the sweetest singer in the court! and now its allmy own. Sold! Sold cheap, my darling. [Kissing her. Enter G. G. D., Lamar. Madine and Dotto embar- rassingly separate.] Lamar. 'Tis well for you, my friends, that I am first. The others might not understand sensations in a swing. Ha, ha, ha! Enter Guards, as before, two supporting the banner staffs. Courtiers Caliph and Carmeah, Prince and Sultaness. G. C. D. [Three strikes of the Palace signal bell. All startled.] Caliph. Ha ! what means that bell ? The sands are low. Prince. The strokes were three, a stranger proclaimed. Enter the Herald, G. C. D. 19 Herald. \_Bowing very low.l Your Majesty ! An escort from the Imperial Camp. Pjrince. Have they in charge a wounded maid ? Herald. They have, my Liege. Caliph. Then bade them enter here, and mark ! provide an easy chair. The maid is ill and weary. \_Exit Herald, C. D. \_The Caliph seated between the Prince and Sultaness. Carmeah and Lamar ivpon the divan. Dotto Murr and Madine on Persian chairs. '\ Soft music. Enter G. C. D., Soldiers, loi'^A chair redialing, placing it center. Enter Herald, /oWoicec? by one of the guard, supporting the Greek maid, Corinna. T/iey bow to Royalty and place the maiden in her chair. Prince. I fear the Gen's prompt desire to grant obedience has overstepped a higher claim, that of guarding life. Corinna. My Liege, permit me, in his absence, to defend his cause ! From my great desire he gave consent. I come not as a slave, nor as a captive chained, but as a wounded harbinger with tidings of the lost and found. But ere I lay my trust before your wondering eyes I ask protection, and a pledge to let me peacefully depart; nor cross my path with insult to whatever faith I bear, as I have honored yours by nursing back to life one of Islam's creed ; so, in exchange, I ask that you will honor mine. Caliph. Fair maid, th}^ words are unalloyed ! We pledge the honor of our realm to entertain thee safely here, and guard thy journey home. So now fear not, but all reveal. Corinna. With thankful heart, Your Majesty ! My story is quickly told. Among the prisoners on Byzantium's plains, a youth returns to life. Just how, or where, I met him, would be a tedious tale. Sufltice it now, he lires, and sends a message to his Prince, with a hope that some of the royal household may meet Kazbek travel, who will spread the rumor there. I would not trust his messenger, so dared to cross the line alone. Knowing the Caliph's wide renown of unsullied godly honor, and being in the right, I had no fear of harm. This noble youth has suf- fered much. His name is Ahvern. \_All start ivith surprise.^ Prince. Ahvern! Thank God he lives ! Caliph. Aye, for bondage, unlike the grave, may yield a trembling hope. Carmeah. Oh, joy untold for Nightingale ! Caliph. Fair maid, thy mission is a holy one ; we seldom know of an act like this. I thought thou wert no spy. Corinna. [^Springing to herfeet.^ A spy, Oh, God! I am here unarmed, except [takes a crimson cross from her bosom and kisses itl with this. . Soldiers. A Christian! a Christian! \_All springing to their feet.-] Corinna. Aye ! as an humble follower of a God whose incar- nate brow was crowned and crimsoned with jeweled thorns, I know not fear ! 20 Head Officer. Up with the crescent! [Their banners are hoisted.'] Down with the cross! We will grind it into the dust ! CoRiNNA. [Mounts platform, holding the cross high above her head.~\ Never ! I swear by the sign above the sun, never to yield it up. ! [Uncovering the ivoimdupon her breast.'] There ! take your aim a second time ! My life is God's ; the cross is mine ! [ilolds it to her breast.] First Officer. Death to the foe ! [All the soldiers drawing their swords. First Officer springs to grasp the crvss Corinna again holding above her head.] Caliph. Hold 1 cowards, hold ! Your Caliph's honor has been pledged. Let no one dare again cast the shadow of his hand upon her sinless robes ! [Music. Tableau. Slow curtain.] ACT II. Scene I — The City of Meru, Khorassan. Interior Prophet's summer palace. Fountains, banners, gar- lands and statuary. Groups of youths and maidens in Orien- tal costumes. Grotto in the distance. Tableau — As curtain rises. Center of stage. Edessa kneeling. The Prophet blessing. Prophet facing the people. At his right white-clothed guards, priests, light-bearers. Edessa, L. Nine vestal virgins with lighted lamp, flower-bearers and guests, kneeling before the Prophet. Prophet. Thy Prophet'B blessing attend his people ! May religious liberty and prosperity be their share. [ Vestal virgins ris- ing and standing on either side.] Upon the head of this fair vestal bride I now invoke our Holy Allah's smile. [Receiving a box.] I anoint her Priestess of this Imperial Realm. To her let the high- est homage be given, second only to Him the keeper of your souls. Arise, sweet Priestess ! and let our subjects now behold God's choicest giift to man. I yield thee to the most illustrious of thy sex. Our Roman guests will entertain thee until the hour is past, when thy Prophet will return to claim the sacred right of holy converse beneath the moon. [Exit Prophet, priests and light- bearers, C. A.] First Lady. Holy Priestess! 'Tis my honored privilege here to-night to bear thee company. [Lifts Edessa's veil.] Just Heaven ! Oh, Edessa, Edessa! Edessa. Carmeah ! Do I dream ? No, no ! 'Tis the Arabian maid, safe and well. Carmeah. Oh, Nightingale ! had I a kingdom I would give it all to know how thou art here. Edessa. To-morrow Carmeah, to-morrow ! [Page with white banner leads to music. Exit C. A., all follow.] 21 Enter C, Orian ivith garland of honeysuckles around his neck. Exam- ines his new clothes. Looks all around. Orian. Oh, twinkling stars and lightning bugs ! but I can't help looking at myself. [_Dancing and singing. 1 And I feel just as sweetly as a real honey-suckle, with the flies and the bees [Katy-did enter L. Steals up behind him, dressed quaint, with long- haixdlecl feather fan'\ buzzing around. Katy-did. \_Tickles his neck, Orian slapping the spot.'] Well, for once in my life, I told the truth. [^Tickles and slapping again.'] Darn that plaguey fly ! I wish I wasn't so sweet. Just fet me catch it once. \_Catching at air.] Oh, that awful silver veil ! I wish he'd take it off and rest awhile; how it worries me. Now, I have always been called a fool, and I know I am a fool, but I hope to be turned into something still softer and without hurting anybody's feelings. I never was in such a big company of my own sort before. One of them white fellers told me that the Pro- phet's face is like the sun. I'd like to catch him asleep. I'd lift his veil and look at him through smoked glass. Nipple's the boy! Yesterday he stood on his hind legs when the Prophet passed and nipped his veil. Gorrah ! but I was pleased when Old Silver Chief turned round ; but to-day he wears a girdle of golden bells. Orian. 0, Katy-did, Katy-did ! Where have you Aid ? where have you Aid? Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump ! My head is red, my heart is lead, and all my limbs are dead, dead, dead ! Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. \_S its flat on the floor, throws /limsclf back. Oh, Katy-did.^ Oh, Katy-did.^ Looks up. Katy-did fanning him. Orian looking at her.] Rainbows and sunset clouds! What a humming-bird you are. {^Holding hand over eyes.] Who dressed you, Katy-did ? Katy-did. I dressed myself, and my Egyptian slave washed my feet and combed my hair. I'm now Lady Kat}^, and don't forget it ! Orian. Silver pills and licorice tonic, you are ! What a change! Halloo! What's this? \_Pulling at her old green dress under the fine ooie.] Katy-did. ^Arigry.] Orian, what common impertinence; stop ! Orian. Ha, ha, ha, ha ! If that ain't her old green Katy-did dress she wore in the mountain — the one the Gypsy gave her — I give up. [Kat^ tucking it up and looking ashamed.] Oh, take it off, Katy — Lady Katy; don't wear it any more. I believe you think there's a charm about that old green rag just because the Gypsies gave it to you — take it off! Katy-did. I won't do it Orian — no, not if I had to dress as fine as the Priestess! Orian. Why? Katy-did. I'll tell you. Sweetie, if you'll promise you'll never tell. Will you? Orian. Yes — no ! 22 Katy-did. Will you tell? Orian. No ! Katy-did. Will you promise? Orian. Yes ! Katy-did. Cross your heart. [_Crosses his heart.~\ Now does it show ? Orian. No; but its there all the same. [Rises.^ Katy-did. Won't you tell? [Orian shakes his head, crosses his heart, crosses his forehead, c7'osses his hands and crosses his feet.^ Katy-did. Well, Old Beauie, the Gypsies told me that this very goods was woven by their queen, who breathed upon the cloth a prayerful blessing. She said that as long as the garment could be worn in any shape, the wearer would escape all danger. " Deed and double, 'pon my word and sacred honor," she did. Orian. Faith, Hope and Charity! are j^ou going to wear it till you die? Katy-did. Yes, just as long as it hangs on to me. [IF/w'sper.] Hark! Orian, some one is coming. [^Standimj L.] Enter Dame and Blondello, R. Dame. Yes, she is Priestess now — wedded to God forever. Blondello. C'tieese it! Why did I not get here sooner? What, in the name of Pluto, does all this mean, leaving me behind without a word ? It's a dirty trick. Orian. I thought it a clean way of getting rid of dirt. Blon- dello, there's some one coming! Hide yourself and your com- mon clothes ! Blondello. The thunder you say, brindle mop! \_Exit all L.'] Enter R., Carmeah, Caspian, Dotto Murr and Lamar. Carmeah. See! Could I but stay these sands ! The Prophet will soon return. Go find her if thou can'st, and tell her all. Lamar. Nay, do not fear; we'll follow them. Edessa shall know and be saved for Ahvern at the point of the steel. Carmeah. Hark! 'Tis the Prophet's voice! [Carmeah exit R., Gen., L.] Dotto. XThinkin some one before me, and 'tis surely one of the Vestal Queens. The Fates are kind. Now I can ask if the 31 Priestess be ill, as I saw her fall from her throne this morning in the arms of her maid. \^ Approach inr/.~\ Fair maid, pardon my intrusion Edessa. \_VeiUng herself.'] Just Heaven! 'Tis the voice of Ahvern. \_Arises and falls bark, staggers, grasps scat.] Ahvern. ^Attempting to support her.'] Art thou ill ? Edessa. No, no ! I thought I was alone. The shock un- nerved me. Ahvern. Pray forgive! I am anxious to learn the strange cause of alarm from the Priestess' throne. Edessa. You beheld her then ? Ahvern. Merely to s'ee her fall. I hear she is very frail. Edessa. 'Tis true; [o.sic/g] but always strong enough to drag the lifeless weight of a broken heart. Oh, I shall go mad ! Temp- tation whispers, refuge in his arms and flight to an unknown land. No, no! I'll be as true to the Prophet as I would have been to Ahvern. Ahvern. 'Tis said she communes with her God, and, like a saint, casts a halo of purity within the Prophet's school. Edessa. I believe she has been all that the Prophet requires. Chimes of bells.] 'Tis the Vestal hour — we mav meet again. [Exit L.] Ahvern. That voice — so like Edessa — with its sweet, sad sound. She must be one of the Vestal Virgins. Could it be pos- sible ? {[Shakes his head no —no. Exit R.] Enter L., Dotto Murr and Madine, loalking and looking around. Madine. Oh, my! 'Tis perfect enchantment everywhere. DoTTo. Yes ; so it is. But I'd rather not have quite so much. It seems to me like being in Fairyland, where unfortunate peo- ple are turned into dragons and white cats. In fact, we are all moonstruck. Madine. Dotto, I'm afraid to remain another day. If the Prophet only knew how I long for wings, he no doubt would turn me into a big-eyed owl or an old black crow, just to let the people see how easy and small a thing it would be for him to convert my hair, nose and fingers into feathers, beak and claws. Do you think he has read my thoughts? {Flopping her arms.] I feel like a wild goose. Do I look like one ? DoTTO. You look to me like a little stuffed duck. Madine. Well [pouting], if I am a little stuffed duck, I'm no quack. DoTTO. {Aside.] (By Jove! but that's cute; she's a regular lightning bug — a pretty little fire-fly. I'll make her take that back.) Madine, I most respectfully hope that upon your modest grace you did not consciously intend to cut me with that word. Madine. What word? Which one? DoTTO. Why, that one with that foul-like sound of "quack." Madine. {Looking up into his face.] I'm very sorry 3^011 are hurt, I only meant that I could sing instead of quack, if I am a stuffy little duck. Indeed— I like — your dainty crumbs — I am — sure — I do. 32 DoTTO. \_Holdlng her at arm^s length. 1 You do? Then you shall never starve, for the cupboard of my heart is full of such as these. [Kissing her. Enter L., Lamar and Caspian.] Madine, there's our shadow — always comes just at kissing time. Come, let us view the fount and the arch. l_Exit through the areh.'] Lamar. And this is the Castle of Charms ; 'tis fitly named, and surely the most enchanting spot in all the realm ; and then 'tis said a stricken heart may find relief beneath that arch of purity. The Priestess here should come, for, they say, she is al- most wild to-night. Your sudden disguise is a perfect success, and the Prophet and Ahvern may enjoy the feast without having questions asked. But, mark well my words, the victory of worlds will not replace what the Prophet loses when the truth is told to-morrow, as regards Edessa and Ahvern. Caspian. What think you of the Prophet's power since the miracle to-night? Is he a god or is he a devil? Lamar. Neither. His nature is not divine, but natural, with the common man. His marriage robs him of a higher claim celi- bacy might grant. Caspian. But this is only known to an oath-bound few. Lamar. And so far will prove my words; except these few, his followers— which are millions — think the very sunlight of divinity plays upon his face, and would blind them if once that Silver Veil was raised. Caspian. Does he teach his people this ? Lamar. I believe not, but wears the Veil for reasons known to himself alone, and leaves the world think whatever suits them best without the least excuse. Caspian. Can you explain what it is that gives him such a magnet over every thing that come witliin the halo of his power ? Lamar. First and greatest, his wonderful charity and ten- derness to his poor. This, and his lofty sincerity, refinement and noble generosity, at once release him from all Satanic wiles ; while his mind, so richly stored with the choicest knowl- edge, places him so far above his pepple, that they, from pure love and admiration, will not question the greatest or least he says or does. Caspian. You make him out a war-like saint, devoid of sin, and slow to wrath. Lamar. No, not devoid of sin ; that brings me to the point. Hakem, the Prophet Veiled, although endowed with those noble attributes of character, is nevertheless guilty of the worst of sin, a crime for which proud Lucifer was banished from his God — deception in its blackest form ; a passion of boldly trespassing upon the great Omnipotence of divinity — for instance, the miracle to-night. I wonder that the Caliph laughs at all our messages. But I almost dread our next return, which may happen soon. The Prophet's peace will not last long, for already kings and priests are madly aroused for the safety of their scepters. - Hark ! what is that? 38 Caspian. The bells upon the dancing girls. Lamar. Come, let us mingle with the crowd. [Exit through arch.^ Enter L., Orian and four Soldiers, all laughing. First Soldier. Say, Honeysuckle, are you sure these Egyp- tian fellows are good drunk ? Orian. Drunk as a bat, and so dead asleep they wouldn't hurt a mouse if it nibbled at their noses. Them fellers are all right ; but it is the leader we want. I know him ; if he can't find help, he'll try the game alone, you'll see, so be ready. Come along boys, we'll hide this way. [Exit L.] Enter Edessa, wildly. Edessa. Oh, God! my heart is breaking! I have looked again with life's fatal pang into those eyes that will seek in vain for their vanished bride. Hark! [Voices and music heard.'] 'Tis the evening minstrelsy who seek repose and chant good-night. The revel will soon be o'er. When the morrow comes I must re- veal that fatal truth. When the morrow comes, perhaps, I'll not be here. [Distant 7nusic.~\ My lips are ladened with a frosted breath, my brow is capped with ice. [Throws off disguise.^ I seem to stand in a bank of snow, while unseen hands, with icy sheets, are robing me for death. Oh, pitying God ! I thank thee with my freezing breath, that dying — Ahvern ! Ahvern ! [Falls upon the Persian couch.] Enter R., Blondello. Blonde LLO. Damn Ahvern ! and those drunken dogs who promised to help me ! But she's a dainty bundle ; I can carry her alone. [Bending over her to lift her.] Enter i., Orian and Soldiers. First Soldier. -Now, boys, gag him and bind him, and we'll shut him up to-night, and to-morrow give him to the Prophet. [They seize, smother, and bind Blondello.] Orian. [Shaking Priestess.] Oh ! what is the matter, Sister Priestess? Why, lookee, her misguise is off. She ain't asleep. [Listens at her mouth.] No, she*s dead and cold ! Oh ! ho, ho, ho ! Mother Faddy, come, come quick! Oh, hoo ! Calamy ! Calamy ! [E.ut L.] Enter C. A., Ahvern, walking slow, arms behind him, head bowed. Ahvern. What a world of enchantment ! I have lived as in a dream. But two things are stamped upon my brain in letters of quenchless fire, and for which, alas! there's no interpreter. First, the Prophet's moon, controlled as if by the hand of Deity. And then, that voice the Priestess holds like a spell within her keeping. To-night beside that Vestal Queen I seemed entranced. We wandered 'neath the stars, and often when she spoke, I closed my eyes to picture Nightingale within my arms. [Turns to the arch and beholds the Priestess.] Merciful heaven ! what do I see? 5 34 The Priestess here ! prostrate and alone ! What can it mean ? \_Approaches nearer.'] Great Allah ! Do I dream, while these eyes behold their idol once again ? Edessa, here ! unknown to all, and decked in the Priestess' robes? Oh! mute and cruel mys- tery_! [ Wringing his hands in agony.] Can she be dead? [^Kyieel- ing beside her, and gathering her up in his arms.] Oh, thou my bride, is this the seal of death ? \_Plares his hand npon her lorist.] No, no! thank God, sweet love! [Enter Prophet, R., standing horror-struck.] I had not thought so soon to press these sacred lips! Prophet. God ! my eyes are ablaze with a fire from Hell ! while its flames are consuming my brain. 'Tis surely a vision of Satanic art, painted from life by the devil's hand, to drive me mad. Ahvern. Oh, Nightingale, my own, my cherished bride ! Rather than give thee up this heart will sheath the Prophet's steel. Prophet. Thy words but prove the demon's work. No fal- lacy here, but all that's rotten of the flesh ! With a poisonous bath in the pools of Hell, they can lave their souls — for die they shall ! \_Starts, and at the ivoi^ds 0/ Ahvern stops.] Ahvern. Oh, pitying Heaven, send some relief! Prophet. [Springing upon them with sword uplifted.] Not Heaven, but Hell has heard thy prayer! Its gates are open for the lost and the damned. Vile souls depart! Nor leave one trace behind of what thou art, except this [striking his breast'] ruin, from thy hands. [Strikes, and is m.et by the sword of Ahvern.] Ahvern. Hold! Art thou hopelessly mad — leaping like a beast of prey upon the sacrifice of thy senseless wrath ? Prophet. Aye, wild beyond control ! Wild as the wounded boar who tears his victim limb from limb. [Strikes again. Ahvern springs to his feet and wards off the blow.] Ahvern. By the gods! I swear thou shalt stay thy hand at least for a moment's pause, that we may undestand how to act like men, and not as blinded fools. If thou wilt not, then our steels shall meet to be parted alone by death. I fear not Prophet, man or devil, when armed with injured innocence! Prophet. [Laughing n-ildly.] ' Ha,, ha, ha! Injured inno- cence ! Ahvern. Was I not invited here to wait thy time? — when, upon that very spot, my promised bride I found dressed in the Priestess' robes, unconscious and alone. From where or when, or how she came, I know not! All to me is a fearful mystery. Now ! what right hast thou to swoop in vengeance o'er our heads, or question what is mine ? Prophet. [Aside.] Just Heaven ! I see it all. The dead re- turns to life. This then is the secret of her disguise and grief. Ahvern. I demand to know the secret claim of this earnest recognition. Prophet. Aye, thou shalt; the scales shall fall from before thine eyes. [Enter Dame, Orian and Slaves, with silken litter.] 35 Truly welcome, good people; tenderly handle and provide for the sweetest flower that blooms in the altar's shade. Ahvern. [Staggers-I Oh, trembling heart, be brave ! What dost thou mean? \_Exit Dame and Company through C. A., left.'] Prophet. I mean that a beautiful Circassian maid, who mourned her lover dead, accepted her Prophet's honored trust and became the altar's bride. Ahvern. Just God ! Is this the goal at the end of strife for the chains I've dragged in my dungeon hours ? No, no ! she is mine by the first law of God ! The altar must yield back what it gained by mistake. Prophet. Irrevocable are her vows. Ahvern. 'Tis false ; I defy all power this side of Heaven that dares to rob me through a guise. Prophet. \_Excited.'] I swear! there's no decree can break the iron band by which she's bound. [Asirfe.] I fear he'll push me to the wall ! Ahvern. If lips that demand are to thee but the bellow's breath, perhaps an arm with mounted steel can break love's bar- rier through. [Unsheathing his syjord.] Defend thyself, for one of us must fall, leaving the other Edessa, love, life and all. Prophet. \_Ra/sing his hand.'] Nay, desperate youth ; put back the blade, while I speak the truth, the only truth. Prepare thy soul, Ahvern, to defend the blow, worse than of steel, I now am forced to make. From my earliest boyhood days, through fancy wrought, an image possessed my soul. At last, when early man- hood crowned me with her years, I beheld my idol in the flesh. 'Twas my first and only love, and I asked it, pure in marriage from the hand of God, as Adam received his virgin Eve. Yet I knew it would rob me of what I professed — a life of perfect sanctity. So I risked my faith beneath the thin cloak of secrecy and we were . Ahvern. \_In agony.] Nay, in mercy, spare me ! Speak not the word ! AVould* to God I had died in bondage ! [Reeling against a pillar.] Prophet. Our lives are twin in hoplessness. Her love for thee and mine for her divorces happiness. Ahvern. [Starts to leave.] Alone in the darkness of despair I go, without one ray, except — [Stops and thinks. Starts to the Prophet.] except from thee. In mercy grant one spark in this gloom of death! Did ^he yield her heart with her hand? Prophet. She said her heart was embalmed in the bosom of death. I took her hand with a trusting hope. Ahvern. Did she give her free and full consent ? Prophet. Aye ! she did ; but not until I won her thus. Think, Edessa, what a life of holiness ! 'Twill be my tender care to lead thy willing feet so near the portal of that home where thy fond lover dwells, that when thy last hour shall come, I'll yield thy soul in perfect sanctity to him thou lovest for all eternity. Ahvern. Noble Prophet ! thy words will guard and keep my soul forever pure. 36 Enter Guard, C. A. Guard. Most wise Prophet ! Prophet. With few words, speak ! Guard. During the banquet hour a mysterious stranger ap- peared, seeking our Roman guests. Prophet. Aye ! 'Twas merely news from Rome. Sickness among their friends, alas ! They bade us all farewell. With deep regret I saw them quick depart. Ahvern. [^Aside.'\ Ah, now, I understand Carmeah's great desire to speak with me alone. Behind this mystery some mis- chief will follow. Oh, alas, alas ! Enter Herald in haste. Herald. Most holy Prophet ! Prophet. Speak ! Herald. Outside the walls dark messengers are at the gates. Their heads are trimmed with crescent moons. They wish to see the Prophet. , Ahvern. {_Wildly paring the floor.'] All angels witness! 'Tis the Caliph's men. Oh, Edessa!" Edessa! [Prophet to Guards.] Prophet. Conduct the strangers here. \_Exit Guards, all ex- cept two and Prince, ^vitJiflag.'] Prophet. [Aside.] By all that's dark in Pluto's realm, the dreaded hour has come. It is the Caliph's sable pack ; his hun- gry bloodhounds scent my path. \_Ascends his throne with two Guards, who remain on the third step. Flag-hearer font of steps. Ah- vern leans against the column. Enter Herald with Mohammed Sol- diers. They bow loiv. Present a scroll to Guard, who presents it to Prophet. The Prophet, after reading., throws back his Veil from his breast, under chin, and taking bouquet of ivhite roses, plucking the leaves from their stems. The Prophet descends and presents the stema to Mo- hammed Soldiers.] Take this to your King, and tell him that as I have scattered these- leaves — being forced to defend myself — so I trust to make barren his kingdom. \_Exit Arabians, C. A.] Ahvern. [Starting to C] [Aside.] This chieftain, with hiss honest nature, has saved me from despair. But now I stand be- tween my country and its deadly enemy. Again the Caliph calls. I must obey and guard the honor of our flags. Arabia must be conqueror in the battle strife. Yet I swear to watch and defend the personal safety of Edessa and this Chief Farewell, Oh, thou Prophet! As foes where duty calls we may meet again. As inno- cent victims of a wretched life; as friends united through the deepest woe. Farewell, farewell ! [Exit L.] Prophet. [Aside.] In the battle's wildest strife* my fretted soul shall find relief. The world shall never know the path of thorns my crippled heart from day to day drags slowly o'er. Ho, Guards! Call and bring here my people! Let the bugle sound, and hearts respond. [The bugle call. Guards and Soldiers rush- ing in with flags and bamiers.] Enter, L. Caspian, Dame, Orian, Katy-did, court, nobility, etc. 37 Caspian. Pray, heaven ! what sound is this? Prophet. 'Tis the voice of war — an echo to the Caliph's call. [Terrible consternation.'l Go! sound the loudest war alarm ! Send far and near, throughout the land, swift messengers. Let valleys ring with the trumpet's blast proclaiming : "G'oci and Freedom.'" Chorus. Allah, Allah, Allah, Acbar! Aebar! Acbar! [Loud martial music, waving of banner and flags. Curtain.'] ACT IV. Scene I — The Imperial Camp. In the foreground the Caliph's royal tent. Fire and smoke and sounds of battle in the distance. [Enter R., Prince Haroun, wounded, swpported by four of his Guard. Prince sinking upon the ground. First Officer. My Liege, 'tis peril here. The tide of battle strangely turns this way. Prince. Only for a moment. Wait until the messenger re- turns. Such fearful conflict can not last. Mahommed's moon is growing dark. Dost thou see the messenger? [All looking anx- iously. ~\ Second Officer. Aye, my Liege, in truth he comes! Messenger. [Enter R., pale and trembling, bows to Haroun.] My Liege, the Prophet wins at every turn. His white-robed soldiers dye their skirts in the crimson blood of our faithful hearts. [Cries and groans are heard.] Prince. Hark! Oh, Allah! What is that? Messenger. Alas ! 'Tis the cry of retreat. [Prince faints.] Tableau. The carnage of battle betiveen the black-robed and the ivhite. The Veiled Prophet mounted upon a white war steed, center of stage, the standai d-bearer upon another at his side. Martial music. ■ Tab- leau scenes shift. Groans and roar of voices heard.] First Officer. Quick, quick ! To the tent! [Can-?/ Prince.] Enter L., Blondello and Ahvern in deadly combat ; fearful roar of voices, nearer and nearer. Blondello /a^/s, C; Ahvern standing over his dead body, meets the C!aliph's army in retreat from R., pointing to Heaven with sword, he holds them at bay. Ahvern. Halt! halt! ye frenzied fools! As heroes, not as cow- ards, leave the comrade forms of the dead and dying, who fell with their faces to the foe! As conquerors, not as escaping slaves, meet the blessings that await in thy far-off homes! As rightful owners of a priceless boon, uplift the banners "Night" and "Shade," now trailing in the dust. Let the trembling crescent moon arise from the threatening clouds of bondage, to shine more bright in Islam's creed ! In the name of God and his sainted Prophet, I charge each soul, with avenging strength, to turn and 38 defend Mohammed's holiest gifts, the Alkoran, the throne and the crown. [Ahvern rushing to the R. U. E., exit.^ SARACENS. \_With swo7-ds uplifted, turn, crying-] Allah, Allah, Allah, Allah Acbar ! [Exit B. U. E.] Scene II — The Prophet's Fortress. Grand Armor Hall. Large doors in the rear revealing the ramparts alive with white-clothed officers and sentinels ; beyond, smoke and flames, and sounds of the battering-ram. Enter Prophet, C. D., walks slowly, and gathers up left side of Veil, throws it over left shoulder, steps front, C, with left-hand clasping hrow. Prophet. They have their terror caged at last ! but no more tamed than Asia's wildest hyena, The Caliph little dreams with whom he battles. That Hakem, the Prophet Veiled, is lover and spouse of his fairest born. Ha ha ha ! little he knows that this fortress contains Edessa, the child of his idolized wife ; that his noble boy, so suddenly torn from his heart, is clothed in white, the Saracen's foe, but 1 hold a price which will conquer and save. \_Takes from his bosom the clasp and pendent.l This dainty thing, with its golden Greek, will reveal more than I can ever impart. [Stands in meditation with left side toward L. entrance,'] Enter Orian R., with blcick sack robe, hood, shoes and leggins, covering his entire form ; hows very low. Is surprised at not being noticed. Laughs to himself. Orian. I don't know which way he stands, front or back. [Goes behind the Prophet and bows low.] Well, if I ain't Faddie's boy — Silver Chief's sleeping like a horse, standing up. Oh, that Veil ! how I do hate the shiny thing ! wish I had it for a milk strainer, that I do. I would go to business and sell Veiled goat's milk. Oh, now, I wish the Prophet would wake up, I got something here I found, and I want him to have it. Guess I'll wake him with my grandfather's horn. \_Blows his nose, making a boisteroui< noise. The Prophet starts and turns. Orian boivs Low again.] Prophet. Well, well, my honest lad ! This is indeed strangely fortunate. I was just about to call a guard to summon thee. Orian. [Trembling, and getting down on his knees, stutters.] Oh, most holy Chief, what have I done ? Prophet. Nothing, nothing, my poor boy; I wish to see thy mother, and brother also, that I may talk with them. Arise. Pray, what is that? A message from the Gen? I hear, Orian, that thou art my safest messenger. Orian. Oh, thankee, thankee ! that makes me awful proud. [Aside.] (Them other boys must be thundering poor.) [ Wiping the scroll ivith his sleeve.] You see, lately I was out on a skute. Prophet. Indeed, been scouting ? 39 Orian. And I found this. \^Hands it to the Prophet.] • Prophet. Found it ? Strange ! Orian. Yes, mighty Silver Chief; I found it in the mud, and washed it in the puddle ; I guess it was cleaner before I washed it than it is now. Them marks kind o' washed out, too. The sku- ter boys wanted it powerful bad, and tried hard to get it, but I just threw some of Faddie's sneezing powder at their noses, and they left arful quick for blow rags. [.-Iszde.] I'm jnst going to tell mother Fadel to tell Nightingale Priestess that I don't want to go with them skuter boys any more, a hopping and a popping and peeping around with our black gowns on, looking like the devil's shadows, or so many midnight bull-frogs. I've been pulled through that darned old hole in the wall till I feel stringy, soft and weak. \_Notices the Veil being partly raised. Starts back in great surprise.^ Oh, gee hunger! what's going to happen? I jnst won- der if he knows one end of that Veil is up. Well, I always thought I'd feel better, and more acquainted-like, and much more at home, if he would just lift it off; but now, I don't quite know just how I do feel after hearing people talk, and thinking about it so much, and wondering and wondering what kind of a head and face there is under it. I hope I'm not afraid to look if he does take it off; but I'm afraid I am afraid. I wish mother Avas here. Prophet. Great God! \_Throv)s bach his Veil under the chin,- over both shoulders, but still concealing his face. Orian jumps like he was shot, arches his hamcls over his eyes, with position and expression of terror.'\ Orian. Oh, gorrah, but I wish me and mother and Nippie was in heaven ! The very next time he moves, that strainer will come off. I just know it will I don't blame them skuter boys for not wanting to look at his face if it shines like his bosom, I'm sure I ain't anxious, even through smoked glass. Prophet. [Still looking at the parchment^ What an army of men must have been pouring in. [Orian turning his face from him.'] And reinforcements still advancing. I must act immedi- ately and purchase liberty for my devoted men. Orian ! [Orian bowing, with his face almost to the ground, and turning, but not looking up.] Wilt thou go quickly for the Dame, thy mother, and Cas- pian, thy brother? Orian. Oh yes [^sighing deeply], holy Prophet! I'll be arful glad to go. Prophet. Then bring them here without delay. Orian. [ With head dill bowed low, turns to leave. A-nde.] I'll just bet the Prophet's big white horse — that the Caliph's got — that while I'm gone, he'll take that strainer off. Oh — I'll send mother and Caspian, but I'm going out with them bold skuter boys, that I am. Prophet. Make haste, my lad, and be sure and return with thy kin. [Orian looks imploringly at the audience a,nd rushes off, R.] Prophet. Alas ! I have merely a body-guard to their num- berless troops. What if — Oh, hellish thought! What if the 40 Caliph, after these long, long years, should scorn to believe my honest pledge and deem it counterfeit? Then all within this fortress must die with me. I will cheat grim bondage, with its blistering lash, of mankind's proudest mold. Naught of life shall here remain, not even the altar's Queen ! Enter from R., Fadel Caspian and Orian, all appearing white- clothed. Orian follows behind his Mother. All kneel. Prophet. I welcome you to my presence, as I wish to speak with great seriousness. \_Chanfinr/ heard.^ Hark! 'Tis the Vestal band! The Priestess comes this way! It is well, and just as I would have it. [Enter L., Priestess and nine Virgins, with lamps, all kneel before the Prophet. The Prophet, in attitude of blessing, then lifts Edessa to her feet. ^ Mv sad-eyed Priestess, whither goest thou? Edessa. To the Vestal shrine, to pray for thee. Prophet. To pray for me ? Fair saint, I would not ex- change the poorest invocation from thy lips for the holiest prayer in Mohammed's creed. Yet to delay the offering will be no sin, for God is merciful and just. Edessa. Sweet sisters to the cloister go and bear my heart with thine. Remember, when the hour is up return, and chant the Prophet's hymn. [Exit Virgins R., chanting.^ Prophet. [Approaching Edessa and taking her hand.l Edessa, dost thou hear the sound of the battering-ram ? [Edessa shud- ders.^ Our line of life seems very short; we are nearing the wrecker's fires. To-morrow begins the final assault which may end in bondage or death. Edessa. Oh, thou pit3nng Deity. Must we yield as slaves to the Arab blows ? and meet the glare of their fiendish eyes, and know that life from each rising sun to its last setting beams is im- prisoned and crushed like a worm half dead? No, no ! I will go alone as a truce and yield myself ransom for all. There's an eye and an arm that will watch and protect. Prophet. Nay, my fearless Queen ! I would not consent to risk so much of wealth to darkness and uncertainty. But, listen, Edessa, and Caspian, prepare for the secret of your lives. [Prophet leads Edessa to a seat beside him at his R. Caspian alone at Edessa's R. Dame and Orian extreme i?.] Orian. [Aside.'\ Measles, mumps and medicine ! I wonder if he knows anything about me and Katy and Nippie? Prophet. .Just twenty-four years ago, being employed in the High Court of Equity, under the Caliph Alamansor, I became the bosom friend of his son, the good Prince Mahadi. It so chanced, for rest and pleasure, we sought the Sultana's long de- serted coral palace in that land of enchantment. Southern Arabia. Being the birth-place of Mahadi, a yearning desire prompted our visit there. A storm arose just as the imperial party dis- mounted, when, lo! instead of a forsaken palace, life, light and beauty reigned supreme within. The house had proved an asy- lum to one who had been exiled from a Pagan father's court. A 41 beautiful Circassian by birth, but Greek through education. Her apology for possession of what was deemed a haunted temple, so charmingly offered, with promises to leave, surprised and pleased the Prince. He forbade her departure, the mansion being ample for all. Soon, however, through the winning tones and courtly grace of this fair Circassian beauty, the Prince seemed hope- lessly won. But, alas! she would not yield her faith. The cross stood firm between them. At last Maliadi yielded. I saw them wedded by a Christian priest. The twelve months passed, when a miniature prince crowned their nuptial joys. The boy was seen by some of the Caliph's men, and so strong the resemblance be- tween father and son, 'twas told at court. The Prince being alarmed for the life of his boy, gave him to me, well freighted with gold. Learning of the good Dame Fadel from the traveling poor, I sent him to her. In less than two years, the stricken young mother closed her eyes in death at the birth of her twin baby girls. Mahadi was wild with despair. Trusting all to me, with a fortune of gold, he bade them farewell till the old Caliph's death. Each child bore one-half the dead [Edessa starts] mother's name — Edessa, the fair, like her beautiful mother; Corinna, the dark, like the proud Arab father. To their faithful attendants Asara, the maid, and Arbuta, the youth — brother and sister — I gave Corinna. They departed for the Isle of Rhodes, and I learned from a soldier only yesterday that the old Prince Per- lander, the greatest landowner among the Greeks, grandfather to Edessa and Corinna, is dead ; that Corinna, known as the child of the cross, the mother's dying legacy, inherits its vast estates ; has messengers searching for her sister far and wide. [Edessa falls at his feet, looking up.\ Ah \_placing his hand upon her head], sweet child, the time may not be far away when all shall be united. Father, brother and sisters. Well, after the death of the royal mother, I visited, mysteriously, a second time the Dame Fadel in that home beside the mountain. Edessa. Then [going to Caspian] Caspian is my brother? [Prophet boivs. Edessa loinds her arms about his neck.] Prophet. You all know the rest. Orian. Oh, Nippie, Nippie, Nippie! don't you wish you had a sister? [Dancing.] Mush and milk! what comes next? Katy- did will be a — no 1 for she says God is her only father. Dame. How w^onderful, my children ! [All standing.] Prophet. A friend of mine, jealous of Mahadi's confidence, lied and said that the Prince suspected me of a breach of trust in regard to the money transmitted. Believing it to be true, I swore to take the price from out his heart, by keeping from him all knowledge of his Christian children. He thinks me dead upon the battle-field. And now I stand with his treasures entrapped, but will in a very few words reveal my last plan. I desire that Caspian bear the truce to his father's camp ; that Dame Fadel and Orian go to attest the truth and give an account of his early life. This broken clasp, with the youth's proud face, will prove all. Do you agree to what I ask? 6 42 Caspian. Aye, and gladly, too. [Prophet exit i2.] Orian. IGoing to Edessa.] I know the way, sister Nightin- gale Priestess; me and them skuter boys was there. Mother can squeeze through that hole in the wall, while I can push and Casper can pull her through. [Prophet returning with lamp.l Prophet. I know not what the end may be. Take this, my magic lamp. If crowned with success, strike thrice with this rod, and its magic light in a cluster of stars will shine for miles around. Should you fall by the foe ere reaching the tent, or the Caliph refuse to believe, if all hope be lost, strike once, which will emit one star of death. By this I will know and prepare for the worst. [Prophet standing just a little back and left 0/ Edessa. Caspian placing his left arm around. Edessa. Fadel kneeling at left in front^ with arms around Edessa's waist. Orian kneeling right of front. Vestal Virgins, singing., enter L., half of them passing be- hind the Prophet, to the right of Caspian. Caspian. Sister, speak ! that if we die, the last sound of thy voice may lull us to sleep, robbing death of its knell. [^Soft music.'\ Edessa. [Left-hand upon Fadel's head., right-hand lifted to Heaven. To the King of kings I commit thy souls, and bow to His will. In darkness, aye, through the Valley of Death. He is our Guide,o ur God. \All turn and kneel before the Prophet.] Scene III — A Pretty Garden Path. Enter, L., Katy-did dressed as a bride, with cup in hand and gold pitcher on head. Katy-did. Well! they have all had wine and plenty of it, too. The Prophet gave this to me with his loveliest compliments. [Bowing.l A week ago he ordered all the court ladies and gentle- men to appear at this banquet in some character dress, in honor of peace between him and the Caliph. And the Priestess he re- quested to imitate his beautiful statue of Apollo. Why he had the Priestess Edessa stand as a model for that statue. All the great artists of Athens came and worked upon it. It is something new in marble, flesh-tinted, hair of 3^ellow and gold, robes em- broidered with gold and set with jewels, and it looks just like Edessa did when she stood dressed for them to look at. Oh, how that big Prophet loves that precious little woman. I wish Orian loved me that much. I thought I would dress as a bride — OHan's bride [_pults up d7-ess ;'] but I didn't take off my old green dress if I am a bride. If Orian don't want the dress he can't have me. But here's to our future joys, dress and all! \_Drinks, throws up the wine and dashes cup away, makes terrible face.'} Oh, misery ! what is in that wine? [Coughs, .spits, and jnds finger down throat, gags.} Oh, mercy, mercy ! I am so weak I [Sits down very limp.} Enter Prophet, wildly, L. Prophet. Lost, lost, lost! Why in the names of Heaven and Hell, have I been so rash ? I beheld one fatal star, I am sure, but the messenger from the tower declares 'twas a cluster 43 and that one shot higher than the rest. We are pardoned by the Caliph._ Oh, my lost soul! I have poisoned the wine and all must die. [Exit R., Katy-did springs up wildly.^ Katy-did. Poison ! [Whirls round and round., spits and gags.'l I will get some cream for us both! Oh, the Priestess ! I 'must save her ! [Cryhu/.'] I have no faith in this old green rag ! [Runs spitting, R. Tableau. Music.'] ACT V. Scene I — The Poison — Banquet. ' The right half of stage a summer palace, with arches and pillars garlanded with flowers and flags. The festal board with gold plate, fruits, flowers and small statuary. The white-robed dead upon the floor,'or in chairs, with arms and heads resting upon the fable. Vestal Virgins. Center and left of stage the royal gardens, fountains and statuary. Near the center at left a large white pedestal with statue of Apollo. Moonlight and starlight. Prophet rushing in wildly, with slave dragging himself behind. Prophet returns, R. Prophet. [ Wildly.'] Why did I drink so soon that poison wine ? I thought we were lost, and now, with all the rest, I too, must die! Edessa! Edessa! Oh, jealousy ! Thy gnawing pangs, like the vampire's thirst, seems draining the blood from my fam- ished heart. No ! she shall die with me ! Ha ! There's a fu- neral train in the mournful air. See ! [Follows from R. to G. with right-hand. Enter L., Edessa and Dolegay.] Edessa. Oh, most honored Prophet, we are safe! safe at last! The Caliph has granted our prayer in a perfect wreath of stars. I beheld them first, like a simple child, almost wild with delight, even to the stars I have told my joy." I could no longer wait your summons. Are you angry? speak to me! and forgive my happiness ! [Prophet sighi^ heavily.] Have I unconsciously wounded this fond proud heart? [Rests her head upon his bosom'.] I have dressed as the god Apollo as you desired. Indeed, I can not remember a fault. Please — do — speak tome! [Waving his right-hand high, then drojjping it.] Enter Katy-did, ivith milk. Prophet. They are gone — gone — gone! They have passed away — one — by — one. The noble hearts that once so fondly loved me, are now — at rest — at — rest. Katy-did. Now, here is the Prophet's milk for that poison. Edessa. Dolegay! He is mad! his mind is gone. [Groans from the dying.] Great God ! what is this ? 44 Katy-did. I drank a big bucket of milk. I hope I won't die! Edessa. Dolegay, prostrate thyself upon the ground, as dead. • [D. obeys. Prophet turns.'] Prophet. Welcome, m}'- Queen 1 Thou art almost too late for the Reaper's mirth, the harvest is nearly over. Yet, come! I'll lead thee to the festal board among the slumbering brave. \_Leads her R.] The wine was old and strong, 3'ou know ; and so they sleep. [^Picks iip a pitcher.] Ha! all gone! Thou shalt be honored with a cup, if I must search the wine vaults through. And then we'll drink to our coming voyage, and sing and dance with huzza! huzza ! for the Caliph's J03's! Ha, ha, ha ! [E.iit R.] Katy-did. Oh, mother of the angels ! what shall I do, what shall I do ? Edessa. Katy, have you that green dress on ? Katy-did. \_Crying.'] Yes, yes, yes! Edessa. Then strip off all your white clothes, place them among the dead, and hide yourself in yonder bush. Now, Dole- gay, be quick; come help to lift this statvie from its base. Place it with my robes among the dead ; then fall, my faithful one, upon the base. Katy-did. \_Sticking her head out from biish.] This time I'm a sure enough katy-did. Now I'll never part with this old green rag, never ! Prophet. Ha, ha, ha! [Dolegay falls. Edessa mounts the pedestal as a, statue. Enter Prophet R., holding high a golden cup.~\ Here's plenty of wine for my dainty love. What, gone? I'll find her out! She's mine, she's mine! Together in yon well of burning waves we'll wash, united, purified in soul and flesh. The world shall track our flight among the saints beyond the stars. Oh, agony, that wine! \_Throws cup aivay.] Death comes too soon. " [^Smothers.] I could tear this clinging, smothering thing into a thousand shreds! l_Ttvists and throws the Veil into the air, looking R.~\ Again they pass — ha, ha, ha! They call me. I'll soon be there. Hark! See \_looking L.] the Arab host upon the walls. The well, the well! ha, ha, ha. [^Exit L. Cluster of fire- works. Soft music. Curtain.] Scene II. , Sunrise on the Caliph's armament outside the walls of Nek- sheb. In the background full exterior view of the Prophet's fort- ress and its ramparts, with moat between the walls, and the army. The draw-bridge raised. The Prophet's large white flag floating from the castle's donjon. In the foreground, to the left, the Caliph's imperial tent with the flag of truce. Enter Edessa upon the ramparts veiled. Edessa. Within this vault of death we dare no longer re- main — yet to go forward defenseless, veiled or unveiled, I feel 'twill be my doom. The Caliph knew not his foe as man or 45 woman. The Prophet's words may have been false and my friends all dead. Those magic lights, an art of the Grecian cap- tives, to keep awake the Arab soldiers. Oh, Heaven, in pity, hear and lead thy suffering child. [iT.rcV.] Enter at the R. of stage a company 0/ Archers, Saracens in mail, some blark-rohed. Music with cymbals. Enter Calii'H, Caspian Prince, Ahvern, Lamar, Dame, Dotto, Orian. Caliph. Oh, Caspian, my boy, my own long lost boy ! [ Weeps. The draw-bridge falls.^ Sentinel [i?.]. Your Majesty, the draw-bridge is down ! Haroun. See, father, see ! Edessa appears upon the draiv-bridge. Soldiers. [With fright.'] The Prophet! the Prophet! Haroun. _ 'Tis the Prophet defying power. We know not what he has in view. He may cast an explosive ball of fire into our very midst. Caspian. What, in the name of Allah, can this mean ? They must all be dead or imprisoned. \_Wringing his hands.] Orian. 0, calamy calamy ! I know what it means. He saw that one big star that skooted so high, and now he is going to bust up with a big moon or a hoblingob ! 0, sister, sister Night- ingale. Caliph. Oh, my child, my child! Ahvern! [Who stands with head bowed.'] A righteous vengeance belongs to the hand that saved Mohammed's throne. We grant thee now the first aim, or, if thou wouldst have it so, our impatient archers will gladly ac- cept an undivided honor. \_Archers aiming.] Ahvern. Hold! hold! First to thee, but now to the foe. See ! alone he stands amid despair and death, as once I stood in that awful hour,^ when naught but an imprisoned secret, locked in the deepest cloister of his disappointed life, saved me from the damned and lost. Saved my soul from the eternal brand that marks the suicide in Hell. When I cease to forget his mercy of power, may God disregard my dying appeal. If, in his miracu- lous strength, he seeks of the Arabian host a living sacrifice, this breast to his steel I bare. \_Rushes to Edessa.] Edessa. [^Throwing off' her veil.] Ahvern, Ahvern ! Save me! \_Falls at his feet.] Oh, save me ! Starting back. Caliph and others start to Edessa. Ahvern. Just Heaven! 'Tis Nightingale! Caliph. Save thee, my darling, from what ? From a father's arms ? Edessa. [Spri7iging into the Caliph's arms.] My own father, brother, all ! Orian. [ Weeping and plucking her dress.] Say, sa}^, sister Night- ingale Caliph. Where's my Katy-did [sobbing] and my Nipple? Great thunder! I don't have to ciy. They are alive, I know. Nipple couldn't drink wine, and that old green dress would save Katy-did. 46 Caliph. Yes, my child, in our joy we have forgotten the foe and all danger. Edessa. Nay, father, fear not ! The white-robed enemy will never return to lose or win. Ahvern. Where is the Prophet, Edessa? / Edessa. Dead ! Ahvern. Then like flowers above the dead our joys spring into new life. \_Starting to her ivith open arm-s.] Oh, Nightingale, Edessa ! Caliph. [Leading her to Ahvern.] A father's gift to thee, Ahvern, in return for the crown I wear. She is thine, forever thine! [Edessa's head upon the bosom of Ahvern.] Ori.\n. Say, say ! \_Again pulling her dress.] Sister, did you see the Prophet's face ? Did that everlasting strainer come off? Caspian. Why sister, the lamp proved true. Edessa. Yes, but one star shot higher that the rest. 'Twas this the Prophet beheld. His mind became wrecked, and he poisoned the feast. Orian. Say, sister, did the strainer come off? Did you see his face ? Edessa. I did. His face bore the look of an angry god, pow- erful in defeat, yet grand and beautiful as Apollo. Orian. Oh, oh! [Groaning, and bending double.^ Wild crab- apples and green persimmons ! but didn't I miss a powerful show? Edessa. Oh, dear friends, that I may forget the strange, sad past ! This, father, is joy too great ! Ahvern. [Leading Edessa front.'] No, our Nightingale, not joy too great. 'Tis a holy debt the happy present owes to the wretched past, with its prayers and tears. And if, perchance, in escaping the storm, we have struck a chord in each heart to-night. to our nuptial feast just beyond the bridge we invite you all as wedding guests. Enter K.\ty-did and Nippie on the draw-bridge, running front, cheers and curtain; Katy-did shaking her dress at Orian and the audience. \ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS illllilllllllllllllillllll 016 215 174 5 9 •