p s .Z9 5 3fc LiBRARY OF CONGRESS. Sliel±V23-S- V' (o UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. '^MiiS'mi^&maSmat^iiUeiimm^kgt^^^^^ DAUNTLESS, MELO- DRAMA, IN FIVE ACTS -BY- MAGGIE A. SCHNEIDER. DAILY AND WEEKLV NEWS. N-W CASTLb, PA. sTtS /ti" Copyright by Maggie A. Schneider, 1884. CAUTION: — Any person using this play, or any part of it, without my written consent will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. MAGGIE A. SCHNEIDER. DAUNTLESS, JL- MELO - DRAMA, IN FIVE ACTS, -B-Z^- MAGGIE A. SCHNEIDER. 7§6 3'^ .^1^'*' DAUNTLESS. CASTE OF CHARACTERS. Dauntless — Huntress of the West, afterwards the Banker's Daughter. Captain Randolph — A Naval Officer. Maurice Forsythe — Banker. Philip Tollington — A Polished Villain. John Mervil — Hunter and Trapper. Tim O'Rafferty— Vallet to Mr. Tollington. Harris — Butler to Mr. Forsythe. Uncle Joe — Colored Servant to Captain Randolph. Judge, Barristers, Bailiff and Robbers. Lady Forsythe. Amelia — Maid to Lady Forsythe. Chloe — Colored Servant. TMPS6-0C6 70S DAUNTLESS. ACT FIRST. SCENE FIRST— Landscape. Enter Dauntless, R. E., as a Huntress. Dauntless — Well, here I am, and I have not had one adventure to-day. It is getting late, and I am as hungry as a bear. 1 will rest awhile, and then I must go home, Chloe will be getting nervous about me Yonder comes the handsome Captain. Suppose I give him a scare. Exit Dauntless 2d R. E. Enter Captain Randolph R. E., walks to the middle of the stage. Enter Dauntless 2d R. B. Presents pistol. D'l's — Your money and your jewels. Captain Randolph, making a military salute — You can have them both, if you take my heart with them. D'l's — O, thank you ! We road-agents do not deal in hearts. Cap. R — Well, you can keep the heart and throw the money and jewels away. D'l's — You mean I can keep the money and jewels and throw the'heart away. Cap. R — Oh, no? I would not wish you to do that. But, Miss Dauntless, what is this you have here? D'l's, laughing — This? Well, I am surprised. You a soldier and don't know what this is. Cap. R — Certainly I know what it is; but that is not what I mean. Are you not afraid to carry it? It might go off. D'l's, laughing — Well, I assure you, Captain Randolph, if it did not go off I would not carry it. Now you just watch how nice it will go off. ( Fires her revolver. ) Cap. R — Why, little Dauntless, your name suits you to perfection. I believe you are not afraid of anything. D'l's — Why should I be? Now I am going home. By-bye. Cap. R — Miss Dauntless, it is getting late Allow me accompany you. D'l's — Oh, no! I have not shot anything to-day, and I might be tempted to use you as a target. By-bye. Exit L. E. Cap. R — The little witch ! If she knew she had already used me as a target, and pierced my heart through and through. But I do not intend to let her go home alone. There are too many road agents around. I will follow at a safe distance. Exit L. E. Enter Robbers R. E. 1st Robber —We shall have to keep a sharp lookout, for I fanc}^ I heard a shot. Now then, men, be on your guard. Yonder is the stage. The passengers will have to alight and walk up hill. Quick to your place! Here they come. Robbers more to far end of stage. Enter Passengers R. E. Robbers rush forward, revolvers in hand. 1st Rob — Stand and deliver! Now then, no nonsence. Commence plundering the Passengers. Enter John Mervil, L. E. John Mervil — Back villains, back I say, or I'll fire! Robbers turn. Exit Passengers in a hurry, R. E, 1st Rob — Men, seize that old villain and bind him. He has caused us enough trouble already. Enter Dauntless, L, E., revolver in each hand. D'l's — Touch that old man at your perril. Back, back, I say, or your lives shall pay the forfeit. , 2d Rob — Back, men, she means biz. I can see it in her eye. 1st Rob — Cowards, come on. Would you be scared by that child? Come on, I say. Dauntless fires, wounding Ist Robber, who is carried oflf by his cempanions, 2d Rob— Take that! Shoots John Mervil. Exit Robbers R. E. John Mervil staggers and falls. D'l's, kneeling beside M — Oh, father, are you shot? John M — Dauntless, my little one, I am gone at last! D'l's — Oh, no, no father, don't say that! Don't leave your poor little Dauntless here all alone. Oh ! father, you must not die. John M — Dauntless, I am going fast; but before I go I must tell you j'ou are not my child ! D'l's — What? not j'^our child? Then whose am I? John M — I have no time to tell you. There's a letter in my strong box will explain all I know about you. The locket and chain in the letter were on your neck when you were found. Dauntless, my little one, good-bye — forgive —Oh— John Mervil dies. D'l's — He is dead, gone. The only father I ever knew, and I am left in this wide world alone. Oh! heaven, kind heaven, pit}' me! Murdered by that fiend! (Raises her right hand.) Here, above the dead body of the poor old man, I solemnly swear to avenge his foul and most inhuman murderer. Enter Captain Randolph and Uncle Joe, R. E. Cap. R — Miss Mervil, what is the matter? What has happened? What! your father! Not dead, 1 hope? D'l's — Yes, he is dead — shot by one of those villains while he was trying to protect the passengers of the stage. Cap. R — What! those devils at their work again? UucLE Joe — Oh! Gorra mighty! dis am drefful! Poor ole Mars Mervil dun shot dead. What's to be did wif him, Cap'n Randolph? Cap. R — You are right, Joe, we must see to that* at once. Assist me to carry the poor old man's remains to yonder grove. Then go bring a wagon to take him home. Uncle J — All right, Mars Cap'n. Exit Uncle Joe and Captain Randolph, bearing oflf the body, L. E D'l's — All alone — all alone! No one to love or care for me now. God help me. I am wretched indeed ! (Enter Captain Randolph, L. E.) My poor father. Captain Randolph, he was all I had, and I am left without a friend. Cap. R — No, Dauntless, you are mistaken. I will be your friend — your more than friend — if you let me. Oh, Dauntless, 3'ou must have seen before this that I loved you. Give me the right to shield and protect you the remainder of your life. Y'^our father is dead now, and you have no one else to care for. I want you for my wife. I love you dearly. Could you not learn to care for me a little in return? 6 D'l's — Captain Ra*ndolph, are you sure you are not mistaking pity for love? • Cap. R — I am sure I am not. I not only love you now; have done since I first saw you. D'l's — Captain Randolph, before you go au}^ further, let me tell you John Mervil was not my father. Cap. R — What! not your father? Then whose child are you? D'l's — J do not know. He said a letter at home would explain all he knew about me. Cap. R — Dauntless, it matters not to me whose child you are. I want you for yourself alone. D'l's — No, Captain Randolph, I cannot bind you to a promise jou may afterwards regret. Why, I may be a child of shame. Cap. R — Dauntless, it matters not to me what your parents may or may not have been. You, at least, are as pure as an angel. Enter Uncle Joe, L. E. Uncle J — Mars Cap'n, de folks dun kum wid de waggon. Am Miss Dauntless gwin to I'id hum? Cap. R — Come Dauntless, allow me to assist you to the wagon. Exit Captain Rannolph and Dauntless, L. E. Uncle J — Well, dis am de dreflulist, horribleist, dog-onest scrape I ever seed. It's a mighty good job I warn't in dat scrimmage, dat is, I mean for myself. I's purty good on a fight; but I aiut gwin aroun' riskiu' my life all the time. Who cares for a dead niggah? I don't mind sheddin' my blood fur de purtectiou uf injured innocence, dat is, I'll shed some out; but I always want to nold on to nuff to ruu de machine. Mars Cap'n seems be a little sweet on dat gal. Guess he's dun cotched at last. Jinter Captain Randolph, L. E. Cap. R — Why, hallo, Joe, is this where j^ou are? Uncle J — Yes, Cap'n Randolph, I's been w^aitin' on ye ! Are we gwin to take dat hunt over de mountains to-day? Cap. R — No, Joe, I guess not. I have an engagement to-day. IJncle J — Yes, I specs you have, and I's giad you got cotched at last. Cap. R., laughing — But I did uot mean that, Joe. I have an appointment. We will have that hunt some other day. But I must be going. You can do as j'ou please to day, Joe, as I will not need your service. Exit Captain Rardolph, L. E. Uncle J — Didn't I know it. He's on his way now to see dat little gal, and looks as happy as a big sun-flower. He mus' be in lub, suah! Wondah if dis niggah cuddent make a mash on dat ole cullud gal dat keeps house for young Missey? ]'s got uothin' to do to-day, an' I guess I'll go an' try. Exit Uncle Joe, L. E. SCENE SECOND— Parlor. Dauntless Seated. Enter Captain Randolph, R. E. Cap. R — A penny for j^our thoughts, my dear. D'l's — Thank you, Harry, you bid too low. Cap. R — Pleasant, were they? D'l's — Part of them were, and part were not. I was thinking of my past life, and wondering what my future would be, and whether I would ever find out who I am. Cap. R — Yes you will, Dauntless; before a great while you will find you are Mrs. Captain Randolph. D'l's — Oh, the letter, Harrj^ I had forgotten it, but I will get it at on^^e; it may, perhaps, explain part of the mystery connected with mj^ birth. Exit Dauntless, C. Reenters with letter, chain and locket. D'l's — Here is the letter, and here is the chain and locket. He said there was a picture in it. Yes, here it is. Can this be the likeness of my dear, dear mother? And this letter! What may it not contain? Cap. R — Dauntless, you had better read it. D'l's — Take it, Harry, I can not read it. My eyes are dim wjth tears. Read it, if you please. Dauntless hand the Letter to Captain Randolph. Cap. R reads — My Dear Dauntless: Many years age I was a fisherman. One stormy night you were washed ashore, lashed to a spar. We thought you dead ; but my wife warmed you back to life. On your neck was the enclosed chain and locket, and a small parcel, in oiled silk, was pinned to your dress. This we at first thought a 8 charm ; but, when you were five years ot age, my wife's curiosity tempted her to open it. Enclosed was a paper, on which were written these words: June 28th, '65. The Dauntless is sinking. I commit my child to the sea and the mercy of God. Her father's address is Maurice Forsythe, Banker, Mirtle Villa, Kent, England. Having, by this time, become much attached to you, we feared to write, lest you should be taken from us. We at once moved to the West. My wife died, and you know the rest. Hoping for your forgiveness, I sign myself John Mervil. D'l's- Thank heaven, I am not nameless. Cap. R — Allow me to congratulate you, Miss Forsythe. You are not little Dauntless Mervil, the hunter's child; but Miss Forsythe, the banker's daughter. D'l's — You will write to my father at once, will you not, Harry? Cap. R — Yes, I will write, and send this letter. It will explain all. D'l's — But why are you so grave, Harry? Cap. R — My dear Dauntless, I would rather you had remained my own wild, western pet, as you were. Perhaps when you are among your rich relatives you may forget me. D'l's — You are mistaken Harry, I will never forget 3'ou. Wealth or high station can make no change in me. SCENE THIRD. Landscape. Enter Uucle Joe, L. E. UucLE J — Well, if dis aint more dan dis ole wooly head can understan'. Dis little western gal dat Mars Randolph am gwin' to marry, aint no hunter's gal after all, but a gran' lady. He's in luck, suah; but he doan look half as happy as he did 'fore he foun' dis out. I specs he's 'feared when she goes back to Englan' she'll go back on him for one ob dem English lords; but de little gal thinks too much ob de has'sum Cap'n fur dat. Enter Captain Randolph, R. E. Cap. R — Well, Joe, are we going to take that hunt to-day? Uncle J — Specs not, Mars Randolph, I's got a 'gagement, a 'pintment I mean. Cap. R — Couldn't you put it off, Joe? Uncle J — Say, look here Mars Randolph, I's made a mash. Cap. R — What, a mash? f Uncle J — Yes, dat's a dead sartin. Cap. R— Where? Uncle J — Wh}-, on dat cullud pusson dat keeps house fur your little gal — Chloe, you know. Cap. R — Oh, yes! Well, I suppose I will have to excuse j'ou to-day, and give up our hunt again. There's alwa3^s a woman in it. "And when- a woman's in the cas^ You know all other things t>ive place." Uncle J — Yes, dat's so, Mars Randolph. Y^'ou's sperienced dese feelin's yourself, an' you know how it am. Cap. R — Well, good bye, Joe, and I hope you will be as successful as I. Uncle J — "^'es, an' who knows but what Chloe will turn out to be a millionair's gal, too." Exeunt L. E. SCENE FOURTH— Robbers' Cave. Dauntless Lying on a Couch, D'l's rising — Where am I? What strange place is this? Wh}', it looks like a cave. How strange I feel! What has happened? Let me think. Ah! now I remember. I was walking in the woods, when I was seized by some one, and a handkerchief pressed to my mouth. I have been drugged, and am a prisoner; but by whom and for what reason? Enter Robber, R. E. Rob — Ah! you'r all right again. Well, I'm glad on't, though you did put a bullet through my pal. You'r a gritty little gal, an' no mistake, and I'm going to marry you, an' make you queen of the band. D'l's — Queen of the band! A pack of cut throats and murderers. Be your wife? Perhaps the very murderer of my father. No, I will die first! Listen: when my father lay dead on the ground I registered a vow there to avenge his murderer, and if I thought you were the man I would shoot you like a dog ! 10 Rob — Well, that's big talk fur a little gal like you. But you forget you are in my power. D'l's — Yes, I am in your power; but I do not fear you. I defy you ! Rob —Now, see here. Miss Spitfire, I think bein' shut up in this cave awhile will tame you down. You'll think better of my offer when I come again. Exit E. E. D'l's — Now for an escape before he returns. I still have you, my trusty friend, (holds up revolver, and tries the door.) No chonce of escape here. I have often heard it said that there are secret entrances to robbers' caves. Perhaps I can find one. (Examines the entrance.) Ha! here is a secret passage. Perhaps it will only lead to a worse place: but I will risk it. Exit 3d K. E. SCENE FIFTH— Landscape. Enter Dauntless, R. E. D'l's — Thank Heaven, I am once more free. Now for home. They must be getting uneasy at my absence. Moves slowly toward L. E. Enter Robber, R. E., seizes Dauntless and puts handkerchief to her mouth. Rob — Not so fast, 3'ouug lady. You're not gone yet. She must have discovered thy underground passage. But I'll make sure of her now. Enter Uncle Joe, R. E. Points revolver at Robber. Uncle J — See heah, boss, hole up 3^our ban's, or you's a dead man, suah. I means biz, I do. Robber releases Dauntless and holds up his hands. UucLE J — K'rect. Now git 'fore I plugs you. Rob — Well, I s'pose I'll have to. You've got the drop on me. By-bye, my colored friend. Exit Robber, R. E. Uncle J looking after him — Golly, aint he makin' tracks. Look, Miss Dauntless, he's clear out of sight already. D'l's — Joe, it's a good thing you happened around when you did, or I should have been in the villain's power again. Uncle J — Miss Dauntless, you'd bettah hurry home. 11 Mars Eandolph and Chloe's getting mighty uneasy 'bout you. Exennt L. E. SCENE SIXTH— Haunted Hut by Night. Enter Dauntless, R, E. D'l's liearing a groan from the hut — Hark ! What was that? It sounded like a groan. (A groan from hut.) There it is again. Oh ! I had forgotten, this is the haunted hut. (Another groan.) It is in the hut. Haunted or not haunted, that is no spirit. It is some one in distress and I am going to help them if I can. (Tries the door.) It is fastened inside. (Looks tlirough the .window.) Great Heavens! It is Captain Randolph, gagged and bound. Hariy, I will release you; but how shall I get in? (Discovers the hut on fire.) Oh! my God, the house is on fire. Joe, Joe, why did I send you home? Goes in at window. Dauntless seen inside the hut, releasing Captain Randolph. Hut on fire. Captain Randolph comes from hut bearing Dauntless in' his arms. Curtain falls slowly. End of Act First. ACT SECOND. SCENE FIRST— Parlor at English Home. Banker and Lady Forsythe. Lady Forsythe — Maurice, I do wish you would forget your grief, and accompany me to Lady Raymond's reception to-night. It will be the event of the season. Why it is nfore than fifteen years since our darling was taken from us, and yet you grieve as much for her as if it only happened yesterday. Banker Forsythe — Her memory is as fresh in my mind as on the da}^ I heard she was lost. Lady F — She was but a baby, and I think it wrong to let it shadow the rest of your life. You have never been the same since, and I wish you would try and forget it as I have done. Banker F — If she had died, I should have ceased to grieve for her; but as it is, I shall never rest until I learn something of her fate. Something seems to tell me she is not dead — that we will yet hear from her. Lady F — What nonsense! If she had been saved we 12 should have heard from her before this. Did I not pin a paper containing your address to her clothing? Banker F — That could have been washed off easily. Lady F — It was pinned to her underclothing, and even if it had been washed off, the large rewards you offered would have restored her to us. Enter Servant, with mail bag, R. E. Banker Forsythe empties mail bag on table Exit Servant, R. E. Banker F — Why, here is one from America. I wonder who it is from. (Reads.) Great Heavens! (Drops letter and staggers to chair.) Lady F — What is the matter, Maurice? Does the letter contain bad news? (Picks it up and reads.) My child, my child ! Not dead after all these 3- ears. I can scarcely believe it. Oh ! I can never forgive that old man for keei^ing her away from us; and to be brought up by such people. What will she be like? Banker F — Hush, Estella! Remember they are dead, and thank Heaven she has not shared a worse fate. Enter Philip Tollington, R. E. Lady F— Mr. Tollington, do not think we have taken leave of our senses. We have received a letter containing the glad tidings that our daughter, whom we mourned as dead, is alive and well. Philip Tollington — Not possible! How did it happen? Tell me about it. Lady F — Read the letter, it will explain all. Philih T reads and lays it on the table — Well, this is indeed a happ}- surprise. Banker F — 1 shall start at once to — who is this letter from? (Looks at letter.) Captain Randolph. I shall dispatch to him and start for Liverpool immediately. Philip T — Shall you .accompany him, Lady Forsythe? Lady F — Oh, no. I have not the courage to brave the waters again after that terrible night. But, Maurice, you will not start to-day, will 3'ou? Banker F ringing — Yes, at once. Enter Harris, R. E. Banker F — Pack my portmanteau immediately, and have everything ready to start for America by two o'clock. I expect you to accompany me. Harris — I will have everything ready, sir, by that time. 13 Exit Harris, R. E. Bell ringing. Lady F — There is the lunch bell. Mr. Tolliugton, will you stop for lunch? Philip T — No, thank you, Lady Forsythe, not this time; I must be going. Banker Forsythe, I wish 3-011 a speedy and safe return. (Shakes hands.) Banker K — Thanks, Mr. Tollingtou. Exit Philip Tolliugton, R. E. Ladt F — Come, Maurice, lunch is waiting. Exit Lady and Bankei Forsythe, C. Enter Tim O'Rafferty, L. E. Tim — They've gone to lunch, have they? Sure it's meself that's glad of it. Haven't I been waitin' at the windey fur this last hour all alone by meself, and divil a soul wid me at all, at all? Jist to get a peep at the purty calleen, Miss 'Mealy. Och! bad luck to me; but I'd give a trifle if she'd jist make her appearance. Mebbie that dirty spalpeen, Harris, is talkin' to her this blissed minute. Whislh I I hear his voice now. I wonder who he's talkin' to. (Places his ear to keyhole in C.) Faith, i can hear nothiu'. Mebbie I can hear better below. (Stoops down with his ear to bottom of door.) Enter Harris, with portmanteau, C. Falls over Tim. Tim — Troth, then Harris, me boy, ye appear to be in a hurry ! Harris — See 'ei'c, 3'ou h'Irisli 'og, what made yer ter cum for ter go for ter trip me up in that 'ere wa^-, H'if h'l ware'nt in an 'urry h'I'd give you a tannin', h'l would. Exit Harris, R. E. Tim — Troth, Tim me bo^^yer allays gettin' 3'erself into some confounded scrape; but it's all owin' to my bein' so tinder hearted Faith, there's Miss 'Mealy in the garden this blissed minute, I'll join her, bedad.- Exit Jim, L. E. SCENE SECOND -Landscape. Enter Uncle Joe, R. E. Uncle J — Well, here I is again. I wondah if Mars Randolph's gjpin to take dat hunt? I guess he's got a pintment to-day. Well, I nebber seed anyone as much in lub as Mars Randolph, an' dis cuUud indewidual aint fur behin'. G0II3', but it makes a fellow good to be in lub — 14 makes him all over in a confluction. Specially if yer lub lubs you, an' I's suah ob dat, foah Chloe has promised to be my wife, an' I's jist de happies' niggah on dis side ob de globe. (Song and dance.) Golly, I made a pome ou dat gal. Putt}- good foah de firs' I eber made. Runs dis way : Oh Chloe, don't you lub yer Joey? Oh Chloe, Chloe, Chloe, Chloe! Exit Undo Joe, L. E. Enter Dauntless and Chloe, R. E. D'l's — Oh, Chloe, this is the day my papa comes, and to-morrow we will start for my beautiful home in England. Chloe — An' is you happy? D'l's — Oh, so very happy! But, Chloe, I should be far happier if you were going along. I cannot bear the thoughts ot going away and leaving 3'ou here all alone. But listen, I hear a carriage. Oh, it is my father at last. (Enter Banker F., R. E.) Oh! papa, papa. (Embraces.) Banker F — My child — my only child. My little lost Ethel restored to mc. D'l's — But why do j-ou call me Etuel, papa? That is is not ray name. Bankeu F — Yes, my child, it is; but what do they call you here? ,D'l's — Dauntless. I suppose they named me after the lost ship. Banker F — Dauntless? Do you like it better? D'l's — Yes — no, I do not know. Banker F — Well, we will call you whatever you wish. Why Dauntless, you are a perfect little wild flower — a child ot nature. D's'l — And are you not sorry, papa, that I have been braught up so wild and uncultivated? Banker F — No, Dauntless, 1 am not. I like you all the more for it. D'l's — Thank you, papa. This is Chloe — dear good old Chloe, who was so kind to me when 1 was left alone. Banker F., shaking hands with Chloe — I am very thankful for the kindness you have bestowed upon my daughter, Chloe, and, believe me, I shall always be your friend. * Enter Captain Randolph, R. E. D'l's- Oh, Captain Randolph, he is here. Papa, this is C aptain Randolph, my very best friend. 15 Banker F — I recognise the name at once as my correspondent. Captain Randolph, I am very happy to meet you, and I owe you a debt of gratitude I shall never be able to repa^-. Captain R — Thank you Mr. Forsythe; but you owe me nothing. Bakek F — Well, my daughter, -we start for England to-morrow. Can you be ready? D'l's — Oh, yes, papa; but you have not told me anything about my mother. Is it her picture that is in this little locket? (Shows locket.) Banker F — Yes it is. Your mother was saved from that unfortunate wreck; but I have not time to tell you more now. The carriage is waiting. I shall stop over night at the village. Shall 3^ou accompany me, Ethel. D'l's — Papa, would you care if I stayed here to-night? Banker F — Certainly not, ray child. Of course I should like to take you with me; but as this is your last night here, we will let 3'ou spend it where you please. I will drive over for you in the morning. D'l's — Oh, thank you papa, but — Banker F — But what, my- child? If there is anything else you wish to say to me, do not be backward. D'l's — When I go away from here poor old Chloe will be left all alone. I was going to ask you if we could not take her along. Banker F — Why certainly, we will find a place for Chloe. You will need a companion on the way, and she will do as well as anyone. D'l's — Oh, what a dear, good papa you are! But I will retain you no longer, for the driver, as well as the horses, is getting impatient. Oh, Chloe, you are not going to be left after all, and I am so glad. Banker F — Captain Randolph, shall I see you in the morning? Captain R — No, I believe not. I am called away on duty, and shall leave early in the morning. Banker F — Then I will bid you good-bye now, and, Captain Randolph, nothing would please me better than to have you come over to England and make us a visit in the near future. Captain R — Thank you, Mr. Forsythe, for your kind 16 invitation, and at some future time I shall be glad to accept your offer. Exit Banker Forsythe, R E.' Chloe, aside — I mus' go an' see what dat Joe's about, an' leab dem young folks togeddah. Exit Chloc, i;. E. D'l's — Oh! Harry, if you were going now I should be perfectly happy. Captain R — -Dauntless, I have been trying to think how I can exist without you, and to school mj^self to look calmly at the matter; but I can not do it. D'l's— It will not be for long, Harry. Captain R — Listen, Dauntless, 3^ou have promised to be my wife. Why not marry me at once — this very evening. Dauntless, give me the right to claim you — to keep 3^ou here. I would not, for m^^ soul's salvation, advise 3'on to anything unjust. I feel so strange about yielding you to the parents of whom 3'ou know so little. What if they should never consent to our union? What if they should part us? I cannot endure such terrible thoughts. A foreboding of some impending evil seems to cast its shadow over me — something tells me, if you go away, out in the world with all its gay mocker}', you will never be the same to me. D'l's — I will always be the same to you, Harry. Captain R — Delays are dangerous oft'times Marry me now Dauntless. D'l's — No, Harry, I must go with my father. My first duty is to do as mj^ parents wish. Captain R — I feel such a claim, such a right to you, Dauntless, that I should be wronged — ruined b}' anyone who would take you from me. D'l's — You must trust me, Harry, it will only be for a short time. I will win my parents' conset to our marriage, and then you will come for me. No matter what happens, I will never cease to love you. Captain R — If I thought you would. Dauntless, I would pray God to let me die at once — here at your feet — while the words, I love 3'ou, are ye^. warm upon your lips. D'l's — O, Harry, can you not trust me? Captain R — Yes, I can, and will trust you. May heaven bless you, my darling, and keep you safe from all harm. 17 Embrace and fcJxit Captain Randolph, R. E. Dauntless kneels. Curtain falls. End of Act Second. ACT THIRD. SCENE FIRST— Parlor. Banker aud Lad^' Forsythe. Lady F — I wonder what can be keeping Ethel? (Enter Ethel, R, E.) Oh, here she is now. Ethel, ray child, where have you been so long? Well, upon ra}^ word, ifj'on don't look more like a gips}'' than anything else! Ethel — Perhaps I am suited for a gip83\ Do you think so, papa? Lady F — Ethel, you will have but a short time to dress. Do make haste, for Mr. Tollington is to be here this evening, and I wr.ut you to look 3'our best. Banker F — Then Ethel, I would advise you to appear as you are, for I never saw you look better. Ethel — Thank you, papa. Lady F — Mr. Forsythe, you are displa3'ing your good taste as usual. Ethel — Mamma, what has my looks to do with Mr. Tollington? Lady F — A great deal, ray i-hild. Have you failed to see he admires you veiy much? It is something more than admiration, I think, and nothing would please rae better than to see you his wife. He is a descendant frora an aristocratic family, and one of the wealthiest men in England. But do make haste, Ethel, or he will be here before 3"ou are dressed, and I would not have him see you looking so for the world. Ethel — Yes, mamraa, I will go now, and when I return 3'ou will not know me. I will look so sweet that I will captivate that — what did you call hira? — aristocratic, titled Johnnie Bull. Is that it? Lady F., showing signs of disgust — Oh ! that I should ever hear such remarks from my own child, and Mr. Tollington the subject. (Banker F. laughs.) Mr. Fors3'the, have 3'ou taken leave of 3^our senses, or have you lost all the respect you ever had for culture and refinement? (Weeps.) Banker F — I hope not, Estelle; but never mind, she is but a child. Lady F — A child, indeed ! She is eighteen past. 0, 18 I wish she was a child yet, then I might have some hope of reforming her. Banker F — Mr. ToUiDgton ma^'^ be a gentleman in every respect, but he is not the kind of a husband I would choose for Ethel. Lady F — And pray, sir, whom would you choose? BANKEii F — Well, I would rather not choose at all. I think that part should be left to Ethel alone. Lady F — Ethel, indeed! And pretty choice she would make. One of the servants, perhaps. But here is Mr. Tollington, and Ethel not here to receive him. Enter Philip Tallington, R. E. Philip T — Good evening Lady Forsythe, and you Banker. I came unannounced. I knew you were expecting me. Lady F — Certainly. You are punctual as usual. Please be seated. Ethel will be down directly. Philip T — Thank you; but it does not matter for the present, as my business here this evening concerns the Banker and yourself as much as Miss Ethel. I love your daughter, and am here to ask you for her hand in marriage. I will do all in my power to make her happy. Lady F — Mr. Follington, believe me, you have my full consent to a union with my daughter. Philip T — Thank you. Lady Forsythe. Are 3'ou of the same mind. Banker. Bauker F — Have you spoken to my daughter on this subject? Philip T — Not yet. As a gentleman, I considered it my duty to first gain the parents' consent. Barker F — Very well, Mr. Tollington, if my daughter is willing I shall not stand in the way. Now, I trust 3'ou will excuse me, as I have some business to attend. Philip T — Certainly; business before pleasure always. Exit Banker Forsj'the, R. E. Philip T — Lady Forsythe, do \ ou think Miss Ethel cares for that Captain Randolph? Lady F — You surprise me Mr. Tollington. Why do you ask? Philip T — Well, I do not know; unless it is because I am jealous of her using his name so often. I may be mistaken, but I sometimjes think it is more than mere 19 friendship she feels for him. Lady F — I do not think Ethel regards Captain Randolph in any other light than a friend; but if she did, it would be of no use. Mr. Tollingtou, do you think I would ever give my consent to such a union? Had she been a hunter's daughter in reality, it would have done very well; but Ethel Forsythe, the millionair's daughter, is quite another person, and I do not think he would dare aspire for her hand. Philip T — Those Americans are conceited enough to dare anj^thing; buc your sentiments on the matter give me courage. I shall have j'ou on m}' side, at least. Lady T — You can depend upon it, Mr. Tollington. I sliall feel very proud when the time arrives when I can call you my son. '' Philip T — Thank you ; but do you know whether they corre^ond or not? Lady T — Not yet, I think, and I will be very careful they do not. But 1 wonder what can be keeping Ethel? If you will excuse me I will go and see. Exit Lady Forsythe, C. Enter Ethel, L 15. Ethel — Good evening, Mr. Tollington. Philip T — Good evening. Miss Ethel, I am pleased to see you looking so well and happy. Ethel — Thank you. I am alwa\^s happy. Philip T — You are a fortunate being, then. It is not every one who can say as much. I, for one. Ethel — And pray, sir, what has the high-born, wealthy Mr. Tollington got to make him unhappy? Philip T— Ethel — Miss Forsythe — sometimes when I am in your presence I feel as if I was the happiest man on the face of the earth, and then at other time you make me very unhappy — you fill me with doubt as to whether the one great happiness I am striving to gain will ever be mine. Ether — I am sorry, Mr. Tollington, if I am the cause of your unhappiuess. It is not my intention to make anyone miserable. Philip T — Perhaps not. Ethel, do j'^ou know why I am here this evening? Ethel — No; how should I? Philip T — Can you not guess? 20 Ethel — 1 was never good at guessing, and I do not care to take the trouble now. Philip T — Do you remember the first night I saw you? Ethel — Yes, why! Philp T — Because, on that night I first learned to love you. (She tries to interrupt him, but he proceeds.) Hear me oijt. Yes, Ethel, the moment I looked into your eyes I knew my fate was sealed. I love you madly, desperately, and am here to-night to ask you to become my wife. I have your parents' couseut. Now I am waiting for yours. Surely you will not refuse me. Ethel — I thank you, Mr. Tolliugtou, for the honor you would do me; but I cannot be your wife. Philip T — What! Surely you do not mean this? Ethel— Yes, I do, and I repeat I can never be j'our wife. Philip T— And why? Ethel — Simply because I do not love you. Philip T — But that will come. Marry without it. Ethel, I have wealth and position and will make you the happiest woman. My constant devotion cannot help but win your love. I will be the most patient of men — 1 will wait for it. Ethel — No, it is a crime to marry without love. Philip T — Then that means you could never love me. Ethel — Exactly. Philip T — That is because you love another. Is it not? Ethel — I beg your pardon, Mr. Tollington; but I think you have no right to ask that question, and I will not answer it. Philip T — You need not, for I know what j'ou mean. You imagine yourself in love with that law-born American Captain, and that is why you refuse me. But there may come a time when 3'ou will think better of it. I can wait. Ethel — Mr. Tollington, once and forever, I tell you I will never be your wife, and never, in my presence, speak of Captain Randolph as you did. He is a gentleman at least, and as your subject this evening is very unpleasant, na}', insulting, I will bid you good evening. Exit Ethel. Philip T — Ha, Miss Ethel Forsythe, 3'ou little know what a desperate man 3'ou are dealing with. Yea have 21 scorned my love — trampled underfoot what any ladv in the Jand would be proud to accept; and all for a poor, miserable American captain, whose salary would not keep 3'ou in pin money. But I will not take no for an answer. We will see who wins. It is England against America, and England will conquer. Enter Lady Forsythe, C. Philip T — Well, Lady Forsythe, it is as I feared; she has refused me for Captain Raudolph. Lady F — What! How dared she. Where is she now? I will settle this question at once. Philip T — No, Lady Forsythe, my advice Would be not to say any more to her at present. The more you oppose her the more determined she will be. If there is anj'thing done it must be without her knowledge. Ethel is a very proud girl, and if we can once make her believe Captain Randolph has proven false to her we will be all right. You are sure no letters have passed between them? Lady F — Yes, quite sure. Philip T — Then we are on the safe side. Lady Fors3'the, I want your daughter, and am determined to have her at any cost. Have I 3'our consent? Lady F — Y''ou have my consent to anything that will separate her and Captain Randolph, and I will render you all the assistance in my power. But here is the postman. It is well -iCthel is not here. I must instruct the servants about the mail. Enter servant with mail, R. E. Lady F — (Looking over it) Ah! here is a letter from America. I shall know its contents. (Begins to open it.) Philip T — Don't tear it. We may need the envelope. Give it to me, and I will open it without injury. (Takes letter, opens it and hands it back to Lady F.) Lady F — (Reads) Such impertinence. (Throws down letter in disgust.) Philip T — (Picks it up and reads.) Humph! a charm- ing billet doux, indeed. I would have stood small chance of winning Miss Ethel had we allowed this to reach her. Lady Forsythe we will crush this correspondence at the begining. There is nothing like commencing as we mean to end. Lady F — The conceited fool. Does he think he will ever reach the goal for which he is steering? 22 Phlip T — (Looking at letter.) I think I can copy the hand to perfection. I will take the letter and write one to suit ourselves. Lady F — We have been ver}' successful. How fortu- nate we were in getting the first letter. Philip T — Yes very. I will go now and prepare the letter, I will then give it to you, and 3'ou can see that it is delivered. Lady F — Very well, and I hope we will bo as successful in the end, as in the beginning. Exit. SCENE SECOND—Garden. Euter TiQi, U. E. Tim — Och ! Bad luck to me, but I'm the most unfortu- nate man in the woi'ld. Hav'nt I bin crapin' an' hidiu' an' lookiu' all aroun' for the swute little darlint. Miss Mealie. Faith, but she's a darlint. If she'll only consent to marry me, I'll lave me master an' we'll be off together to America. That master of mine, Mister ToUington, is up to some div- ilment. Wasent he for two hours yesterday afternoon copin' off a letter. There's roguary in it, an' it's sometbin' to do wid that beautiful young leddy. But I'i find it out. Remember, master mine, Tim O'Raffert^' is watchin' yes. But here comes someone, I must hide in the bushes. Exit K. E. Enters Ethel L. E. Ethel — How very warm it is, and I thought it would be cooler in the garden. Mamma says I can take no more of the long walks I enjoy so much. She saj's it is ver}' un- ladylike, and highly improper. If I go at all I must take the carriage. Oh! bother it, I find no pleasure driving through the parks, among a crowd of fashonable dressed fools; but such is fushonable lite, I suppose. Oh! I would give m}'^ best set of diamonds if I could cast off all style for this day, dou my old hunting suit, take my gun and have a real old fashoned hunt. But that is out of the question. Mj- hunting daj^s are over. I wonder what my lady mother would say if she saw me in that costume? She would never survive the shock, I am sure. It would be worse than the Jonnie Bull. I wonder wh3' I do not hear from Captain Randolph? Poor, dear, Harry. How I wish you were here. 23 Let me see, it must be over three weeks siuce we came to England, Surely he has had time to write. Mr. Harry, you will have to be more punctual, or I will throw you over yet. I wonder what you would think if you knew I had a proposal alread}^ from the high born, aristocratic Mr. Tol- liugton? Humph! Captain Randolph, when I think ot you in comparison with that dolt, he seems more insignificant than ever. What a difference there is in people, and what a vast difference there is in opinions. Mamma thinks there is no one like Philip Tolliugton, but I would not give one drop of Captain Randolph's true American blood, for all the blue blood he possesses. I think I must speak to papa about our engagement. I am sure he will not object; but with mamma it will be different, I am afraid there will be opposition there. I hardly think her ladyship would care to accept such an undistinguished person as Captain Ran- dolph for a son-in-law. (enters Amelia with letter L. E.) Oh! Amelia, you have brought me a letter. You are the best girl in the world, (kisses her.) Enter Lady F., L. E. Ladt F — Why, Ethel, I am shocked ! Ethel — What has shocked you, mamma? Lady F — The idea of you being so intimate with your maid, and actually stooping so low as to kiss her. Ethel — I did not'stoop at all, mamma. You can see she is taller than I. Lady F — -Ethel, you know what I mean, Ethel — And what if I do? I am no better than she. Lady F — Remember there is different blood in your veins. Ethel — Blood is all of one color, I believe — all except Mr. Tollington's, his is blue, is it not, mamma? Lady F — Ethel, you are too obsurd for anything. I will listen to your nonsense no longer. Exit Lady F., L. E. Ethel — Well, that is a shorter lecture than I expected. Now I suppose I can read my letter in peace, (opens letter and reads.) It was but a dream, an empty dream. He never loved me. It was nothing but pity he felt for me, when he thought I was alone. Now, that I have wealth and station, he asks me to forget him. Oh ! if I only could. What is all the wealth and station, if I lose him? Oh! Harry, I trusted you so much. It would have been better had you never written at all, than to have sent these cruel lines which have shattered my hopes and broken m}^ spirits, (weeps.) Ha! is this the brave Dauntless Mervil, who has faced so man}'^ dangers without flinching, shedding tears over man's inconstancy? No, I will banish his memory from my thoughts, his image forever from my heart, and let him know that I, too, can forget. This is the letter I expected would be so full of love aod affection. Oh! Harry, I never thought you capable of writing such cold, cruel lines. Exit. Enter Laily F.. Lady F — Our plan is working well; but 1 had no idea she would take it so hard. The worst is over now, I think. She is too proud tb openly grieve over it, and our secret is safe. Enter Philip T. Philip T — Good afternoon, Lady Forsythe. Lady F — Good afternoon. Please be seated. Philip T — Thank you. Have you delivered the letter yet. Lady F — Yes, Mr. ToUington, and I congratulate you on your success. I was afraid she would detect a difference in the hand, but happily she did not. Philip T — Did she take it much to heart? Lady F — Yes; but I think her pride will carry her through. Philip T — I hope so. We are through with Ethel, now for th3 Captain. Here is the letter I have written in response to his. (Hands letter to Lady F.) Lady F., reads — That is splendid. I think you are quite an expert, Mr. Tolliugton, (Hands letter back.) Philip T — This will fix him I must marry Ethel as speedily as possible. They roust never meet. We have played a desperate game. Lady Forsythe; but we will be too cautious to have any slip 'twixt the cup and the lip. Exit. SCENE THIRD— Landscape. Enter Captain Randolph, R. E., reading letter. Captain R— Oh! Dauntless, God knows with what bitter heart throbs I am forced to believe you mine no ^5 longer. Since I have received this letter, which brought to me the most euteuse woe the human heart can know or feel, 1 seem to have drained the very dregs of sorrow's cup. A month ago, I had something to live for, something to glad- den my future. Now all is swept away. How could heaven be so cruel as to take you from me? When you find the hoUowness of the social world, at whose shrine you worship, you may understand and appreciate the true worth of an honest, loving heart, one to guard you tenderly from the world's pitiless storms. If you had but waited, I could have surmounted all obstacles, if you had but given me the hope of winning you at last. The thought of losing you, drives me to the very verge of dispair. It is the death knell of all my dreams of happiness, the grave of all those hopes and joys I built upon the altar of love. Try and forget, you say. Alas! I cannot. Oh! if I could forget my very existence. You advise me to mingle in society, and find some other love. With me, to love once, is to love forever. You write of your approaching marriage with this Mr. Tol- lington. For the love you once professed, you might have spared that last thrust. The very thought is more than I can bear. Yet. he is blameless. How could he help loving her? I will do him no injustice in my thoughts; but it i^^hard; oh! so hard. To bury the past will be a fierce struggle with me. How i succeed, is a question I cannot answer; yet, I hope I am too honorable to hold enshrined in my heart, one, whose love is rightfully anothers. It is my earnest prayer that she may never know a single pang, such as I am now sufl^ering. But I must see her once more. If I can but look upon her face — hear her voice once more, I fl^ill be more contented with my lot. Exit. Close of Act Third, ACT FOURTH. SCENE FIRST— Garden. Ethel Seated. Ethel — How changed my fortune. A few short weeks ago, I was one of the proudest and happiest girls on the face of the earth. To-day, I think, I am the most miserable. M}' home is one of wealth and luxury, more beautiful and grand than I ever imagined. But oh ! wealth does not alwa)'s bring happiness. Dear papa is good and kind, and I shall try to be more cheerful for his sake; but mamma is so different. She cares for nothing but wealth, rank and fashion. Nature has no charms for her. I can find no 26 pleasure in fashionable life. I sometimes think I was bet- ter suited for a hunter's daughter, than a child of wealth. I would not give the grand, old forest, with its spreading trees and singing birds, for all the works of art that wealth can buy. * Enter Captain Randolph, R. E. Captain R — Dauntless! Ethel, springing to her feet — Captain Randolph ' You here? Captain R — Yes. You are not glad to see me, are you? We can still be friends, can we not. (Offers his hand.) Ethel, taking it — Certftinh', Captain Randolph, I never forget old friends. Captain R — But you are not looking as well as you were when j^ou left America. Ethel — I am quite well; but fashionable life is so try- ing, you know. Captain R--And you like it? Ethel — I see no reason why I should not. It is one continual round of excitement. My time is so taken up with balls, parties and receptions, that I have no time to think of an3^thing else. Captain R — Well, I am glad you find it so pleasant. I was afraid you would get home-sick. Ethel — Don't mention the old home to me; but yonder is papa coming. He will be delighted to see you. Captain Randolph, he has taken quite a fancy to you. Enter Banker Forsythe, R. E. Banker F — Why, who have we here? Captain Ran- dolph, as I live.' (shakes hands) Welcome, Captain Randolph, to England! This is a very pleasant surprise. When did you come over? Captain R — I arrived in England three days ago, and am stopping over in the city. Banker F — I shall insist upon you being my guest the remainder of your stay. Captain R — Thank you. Banker Forsythe, but — Banker F — There, no buts about it. We dine at six. (consults his watch) We have half an hour yet. Shall we sit dowm or take a stroll over the grounds? Captain R — I prefer walking. Banker F — Very well. Ethel will you accompany us? 27 Ethel — No, thauk you, papa, I would rather remain here. (Exit Captain R. and Banker F, L. E.) Oh! Captain Randolph, why did 3'ou come? I was learning to forget you, and prehaps would have succeeded. But when I looked up into your face again, I knew you were dearer than ever to me. You offered me the hand of friendship; but that is a poor substitute for the love you once professed. Papa has invited him to stay. Oh! how can I live under the same roof with that man, and not betra}' myself? Captain Ran- dolph, you little know what you have made me suffer, and you never shall. I can laugh, dance and be the gayest of the gay, and still this heart be breaking. I have always treated Philip Tollington with indifference; but in the pres- ence of Captain Randolph, I shall treat him as my accepted lover. They are coming back, I hear voices and 1 cannot meet him again until 1 become more composed. Exit L. E. Enter Lady F. and Philip T., R. E. Lady F — Why, I wonder where Ethel can be? Yonder is the banker coming, and there is someone with him. Who can it be? Philip T — He is dressed in a military uniform. Can it be possible that it is Captain Randolph? Enter Captain R. and Ranker F., K. E. Phiiip T. and Lady F. exchange frightened glances. Banker F — Lady Forsythe, allow me to present to you our American friend. Captain Randolph. (Lady F. makes a stiff bow.) Mr. Tollington, Captain Randolph. Lady F — Maurice, have you seen Ethel? Banker F — She was here but a short time ago. Cap- tain Randolph, please be seated, and tell us something about America. You see I am interested there; I, too, was born in America, (bell rings.) But there is the dinner bell. We will have to wait until some other time. I wonder where Ethel has gone? Oh ! here she is now. Enter Ethel. L. E. Ethi^l — Am I late? Lady F — The bell has just rang. Mr. Tollington, you are not going? Surely you will dine with us. Philip T — Thank you, Lady Forsythe, not this even- ing. Ethel — Why not, Philip? Why are you in such a hurry? 28 Philip T — Such a hurry? I have been here all after- noon, an^l not once honored with j^our presence until now. Ethel — I am real sorry I have missed so much pleas- ure; but I did not know you were here. Philip T — Then I will torsive you this time. Ethel— And stay for dinner? Philip T — My dearest Ethel, nothing would please me better since a^ou ask it; but I have some urgent business to attend this evening, and therefore must deny myself the pleasure. Ethel — Certainly, business before pleasure, always. Exit Philip ToUington, R. E. Banker F — Come folks, our dinner will be getting cold. Captain Randolph, 3^ou will escort Ethel. Captain R — With pleasure. Exit, L. E. Enter Tim, R. E. Tim — Faith, it's sorry throubled in me moind, I am. That blackguard, me master, and the old she-cat together, are breaking the heart of that swate young lady, wid their connivins and bogus letters; but it's no business of mine. So Tim, me bo}^ kape a quiet tongue iu yer head, an' kape yer eyes open. Hurrah! here comes the darlint. Enter Amelia, L. E. Tim starts forward to embrace her. Amelia, drawing back — Mr. O'Rafferty, keep your dis- tance sir, if 3^ou please. Tim — Shure now, Miss Melie, dear, it's 3'er own fault, so it is Y'er so purty, ye know. Amelia — Oh! Mr. O'Rafferty, you Irish gentlemen are so forward. Tim— Forward, is it? Why, Miss Melie, the O'Raffer- tys are the most modest an' bashful men in the world. It runs in the family. I can't kiss a girl but I'll be blushin' all over. Just watch me now. (kisses her.) Amelia — Oh! Mr. O'Rafferty, aint you ashamed? Tim — Of course I am. Did'nt I tell you I would be? It's not a bad feelin' though, I think I'd like to blush again, (attempts to kiss her.) Amelia- — Go away, you naughty man. Oh! good gracious, here comes Harris. He'll be as mad as a March hare. I'll leave him to you. Exit Amelia, L. E. Enter Harris R. E. Walks by Tim towards L. E. 29 Hakkis, asiile — Can I beleive my Ifeyes? I seed 'im kiss 'er. The h'Irisli 'og! (aloud) See 'ere 3'ou Rapperty or Drappert}', or whatever your name is, that 'ere gal you was talkin' to is going to marry me, just as quick as young Missus gets married, an' we're goin' to keep a public 'ouse. Tim — I Wish ye joy, me bo3% an' it's meself 'II patron- ize ye. Harris — See 'ere, Happerty^ you just let that gal alone or there'll be ha rumpus. Hallo! Who's comin' 'ere? It's ha Blackamoor. Enters Uncle Joe, R. E. Tim — Holy Moses! It's a nager! How are you, Mr. Dark — Black — Smoky — ahem! U J — How are you, boss? Tim — That's not my name, mister, I'm Tim O'Raflerty, at your service. U J — All right, boss. I'stiyiu" to find out where Miss Dauntless libes, I want to see her. Tim — Don't know — never heard of her. Harris, can't you tell the dark gentleman? Harris — There haint no body named Dauutles 'bout 'ere. This is Banker Forsythe's. U J — Dat's de ole coon. It's his darter I wants to see. Harris — Step this way. Exit Harris and Uncle Joe, L.E. Tim — So ye'r goin' to raarry Miss Melie, are ye? Not if I can help it, me boy; but here comes me master. He's up to some divilment agin. I'll steep-behind these bushes awhile till he's gone. Exit Tim, L. E. Enter Pliilip T., R. E. Philip T — Oh! This is more than I anticipated. I had not counted on having my rival to deal with in person. In fact, I thought I was done with him. He is not the kind of person I immagined. A little too handsome, and far too haughty to suit me. I luivi- gotten myself in a tight place, and it will require all my wit and cunning to get out of it. Philip Tollington never failed in anj^thing he undertook, and will not in this. Ethel still believes the American false and treats him accordingly. That is one in my favor, and he thinks the same of her. That is another. The way she treated me this evening will cause him to think we are al- ready engaged, and therefore, he will not seek an explana- 30 tiOD. I was surprised at the change iu her manDer towards me this evening, and would have been supremly happ3' if I had not known she did it only to pique Captain Randolph. But there is not a moment to lose. I must act at once, for something may turn up at any moment that will divulge the whole thing, and then I am a ruined man. I must get rid of this fine Captain some how. If no other way, I will challenge and kill him. Ethel shall be mine. If not through fair means, by foul, and when she is once m}' wife, I wilt bend her haughty will to mine, if I break her heart doing it; but time is pressing, I must be off at once. Exit Philip T, R. E. Enter Tim L. E, Tim — Well, Mister mine, I begin to think ye'r purty much of a rascal; but I must be off, fur ye'll be nadin me. Exit Tim, L. E. SCENE SECOND— Parlor. Captain R. and Banker F., over their wine. Enter Philip T., R. E. Philip T — Good afternoon, gentlemen. Banker F, both bow — Please be seated, Mr. Tolling- ton. Philip T~Thanks, I will. Banker F — Captain Randolph, you have told us nothing about America yet. Captain R -Excuse me. Banker, I did not know you were so interested. I shall be very happy to accommodate you. Did I understand you to say you were born in Amer- ica? Banker F — Yes, I was born in Philadelphia, Pennsyl- vania. My father was an Englishman, my mother an American lad3^ We removed to England when I was about five years of age. Philip T — Then you know very little of America. It has no claim upon you. You are an Eoglish gentleman. Banker F — Yes I suppose so; but I am partial to America. Philip T — I do not see why you should be. Banker F — And why should I not be, Mr. Tollington? Philip T — For the simple reason that the majority of Americans are so vulgar and uncultured, that few English oeutlemen care to associate with them. 31 Captain R., springing to his fecL — Mr. Tollington, you forget I am an American. Philip T — Ohlm, Randolpli, ilo not think lor one menieut I ever took you for anything else. Captain R — Then it is intended as an insult. Take that for your impudence. (Throws his glass of wine in Philip Ts face.) - Banker F — Gentlemen, I beg you to consider. Captain R — Banker Forsythe, I humbly beg your par- don for the liberty I have taken while under your roof; but the insult was more than I could tamely bear. Banker F — I do not blame you, Randolph. (turns to Tollington.) Mr. Tollington, Captain Randolph is my guest, and when you insult him, you insult me. My mother was an American lady. Philip T — Randolph, we will end this in a more honor- able way. f:xit Philip Tollington, R. E. SCENE THIRD— Landscape. The Duel. Captain R., Phillip T. and Seconds. Banker F. in the distance. Second — One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, tire. Philip T. tires. Captain R. falls. Enters Ethel, throws herself flown by Cap- tain R. Ethel — Oh! my darling has he killed you? Banker F. raises Ethel. Doctor makes an examination. Banker F — Ethel, this is no place for you. Did you ever care for this man? Ethel — Oh ! papa, he is dearer to me than my own life. Doctor — He is not dead. We may yet save his life. Banker F — Do so, and name your own price. Doctor — We will do our best, it is our duty. Captain R. removed on a stretcher. Randolph's Second, picking up and examining his re- volver — I think an investigation is needed here, Randolph's weopou was not discharged at all. How is this? Philip T — He had the same chance as I, and if he failed to fire when the signal was given, it is no ones fault but his own. 32 Sec — Hut 3011 tired Ijefore the signal was giveu. Pnijjp T— 'Tis false! Ethel, pointing her finger at Tolliugtou — Philip Tol- lingtoii, you did it intentionl}'. You are a coward and a murderer; but remember if Captain Randolph dies from the effects of your bullet, my weapon contains one for you, also. (Presents her revolver. Tableau.) Eurt of Act Fourtli. ACT V. SCENE FIRST— Parlor. Banker F. seated Enter Captain Randolph, R. E. Banker F — Why, how are you, Randolph. Is it pos- sible you are able to be out already? Captain R — Yes, and I have come to thank you. for ^•our kindness to me in my hour of need. Banker F — A friend in need, is a friend indeed. Captain R — I owe my life to 3'ou, and shall never be able to repay it. Banker F — Captain Randolph, you owe me nothing. I am very happy to think I have been of any service to one who so kindly befriemted m^^ daughter when she was alone. My friendship for you amounts to almost a father's love. Were you my own son, I could uot think more of you. Captain R — I believe you sir. There was once a time when I hoped — Banker F — Ranandolph, was there anjthing betvveen you and my daughter when she left Americ? Captain R — She was my promised wife. Banker F — What! your promised wifeV Why did you uot tell me this before? Captain R — Pardon me, Banker, I should have told you immediately on forming your acquaintance, and ask your concent to our union, but it was your daughter's wish that I should uot. She promised to become my wife before she khew who her parents were, and on learning that she was the only child of wealth^^ parents, she was afraid 3'ou would uot give your cousent. Banker F — She was mistaken. I never judge a man by his riches. Captain Randolph, I have known you but a short time; but from our acquaintance, I have every reason to believe I can safely trust my daughter's happiness in your keeping. It is not too late yet. 33 (Japtain R — Oh! but it is. Your daughter lias ceaseil to care for nie. Banker F — I think you are hiboriug under a delusion. Captain R — Wh3' do you think so? Has she ever said anything to the contrary? For heaven's sake, do not give nie hope again unless j'ou are sure she cares tor me. Another disappointment would be more than I could stand. Banker F — My dear boy, I have no wish to raise a Jalse hope; but Ethel told me that you were dearer to lier than her own life. Is that enough? * Captain R., walks backwards and forwards, aside — Is it posssble I have been deluded, (aloud) Banker, you have made me the happiest of men. How can I repay you for all you have done? Banker R — By not trying. And as for me making you the happiest of men, 1 think Ethel has more to do with that than I. Go and seek her, and make her the happiest of women. You will find her in the garden. Captain R — Thanks, I will. 9 iSxit Captain Randolph, R. E. A pistol shot, Banker F. fall*. Enter Cap- tain Randolph R. E. Captain R —Great Heavens! who has done this? (kneels beside the body ) He is dead ! . Enter Ethel, L. E. ^ Ethel — Captain Randolph, who — Oh! my God what has happened? (kneels by her father.) Captain R. picks up revolver, Enter Phi'ip T., Harris and Amelia. Ethel, seeing Captain R with pistol, springs to her feet. — Captain Randolph, did you do this? Cpatain R — No, Ethel, as heaven is my witness, I am innocent, (raises right hand.) SCENE SECOND.— Landscape. Ehter Captain R., slowly, R. E. Captain R — Who could have done this terrible deed? Poor little Dauntless. How my heart achee for her. Enter Ethel, R, E. Captain R — Dauntless, what can I say to comfort you? Ethel — Nothing, Captain Randolph. I am here to- night to ask a favor of you. Before I tell you what it is will you promise to grant iff? 34 Captain R--DauQtless. jon kuow there is nothing in my power, but what I would do for 3'ou. Ethel — Then you will grant it? Captain R — Certainly. (takes her hand.) Littk* Dauntless, do you lo%'e me still? Ethel — You have no right to ask that question. Captain R — Since when have I forfeited that right? Ethel, handing him letter — Since you wrote this? Captain R., reading — Dauntless, is it possible you thought this came from me? Ethel — I did; but it was hard. * Captain R—1 never saw this letter until now. We have both been deceived, deluded. Some one has been playing us false. Do you think if I had done this, that I should ever wish to meet \'ou again? No, little Dauntless, the letter I wrote to you was full of love and affection, and this is the one I received in return. (Hands her another letter. Ethel, reading — Oh I Captain Randolph, who could have been so wicked? But time is flying, and I have' not yet accomplished my purpose. You have promised to grant my request? CaptainR — Certainly. Ethel— ^hen you must leave for America at once — this very hour. Captain R — Why this strange request? Ethel — Because if you do not go you will be arrested for the murder of my father. Captain R — Is it possible you believe me guilty? Ethel — No, Harr}', I do not, but the evidence is all against 3'OU, and men have suffered before for crimes they never committed. Captain R — You believe me inoceut, and yet you ask me to fly. Why, that would be the best evidence of my guilt. No, little Dauntless, you ask too much. Ethel — Oh! Harry, my belief in your inocence will n(»t save you. Captain R -I would rather suffer the penalty, death, than flee from a crime I am not guilty of. It would be a coward's flight, Ethel — Oh! but, Harry you must go. Remember you have promised (kneels at his feet.) If you love me. as you say you do, prove it now. * 3.5 Captain R — Dauntless, you doubted my love ouce; you shall never do so again. I will go. Eater Odicer, K. K. Ofkicek — Captain Randolph, you are my prisoner. I arrest you for the murder of Banker Forsythe. Scene closes. SCENE THlftD— Prison. Captain R. seated. Eh'.er Ethel, R. E. Ethel — Harry ! Captain R., springing to his feet — Dauntless, this is no place for you. Ethel — And it is no place for you. Captain Randolph, Oh! why did you come here? Why did you not stay in America? and this would not have happened. Captain R — Dauntless, I would rather be where I am, to-day — I would rather suffer for the crime, which you know I am not guilty of, than to have stayed in America ant-l be- lieved you false, Ethel — Captain Randolph, your love for me has been your curse. Captain R — No, Dauntless, do not say that. 1 can die happy in the knowledge of your love. Ethel — Die, Die! Oh! my God, do not speak of death. You must not, shall not die. There is a just God, above, and surely he will protect the inocent. Enter Lady F., R. E. Lady F — Ethel, how dare you come here? Are you mad? (clutches the girl's arm) Have you no sense of shame, no regard for your friends? Ethel — Do not be angry with me, mamma. Lady F — Angry! I am ashamed, mortified, to think that you would visit the wretch in his cell; the murderer of your father. But the time has come when 3'ou must choose between this man and your mother. If it is I, then you must come away, and never again let his name cross your lips. If it is he, henceforth you are no child of mine. Ethel, kneeling — Oh! mamma, aave you no mercy? Is there no pity in your heart? You are a mother. Think of this man' mothei", and lor her sake, show him some mercy. 36 He is a stranger in a strange land, without one friend to comfort him but myself, and you ask me to leave hira — to forsake him, in his hour of greatest need. Mamma, as you hope to obtain mercy there, (raises her hands,) be merciful to this man. If you would find the murderer of my father, you must look elsewhere, for this man is inocent, an heaven knows it. Lady F — Ethel, 1 command you to make your choice at once, for to breathe the same air as ibis wietch, is more than 1 can bear. Ethel — Beit so. (walks over and stands by Captain Randolph,) This is my choice before the wljole world. SCENE THIRD—Landscape. Enter Uncle Joe, R. E. U.J — Disamdrefful! Poor Mars Randolph has got hisself in a mighty tigh place; but de good Lord am not a goin to let him suffer for de crime of annudah. Mars Ran- dolph aint no more guilty dan a little chile. It's dat ar polished cuss of a Tollington dat has got him into all dis trubble. Golly! would'nt I like to hab him here for 'bout five minutes? Would'nt I twist dat fine neck ob his? Dar would'nt be 'nuf ob him left to fill a dude's hat. He's dead gone on de little gal, hisself, and wants to git rid ob Mars Randolph, fur he knows he's nowher when be han'som' Cap tain's 'round. But suffln's got to be did to sabe Mars Randolph, dat am sartin. Me an' de little gal am all de fr'en's he's got now, and ole Joe am gwin to stan' by him if it takes be las' drop of blood in dis here ole black body. Exit Uncle Joe. R. E. Enter Tim and Amelia, L. E. Amelie, weeping — Oh! 'tis so dreadful, Mr. O'Rafferty, so very dreadful. I shall die, I Know I shall. Tim — Och ! now, me dear, don't talk of dyin', or ye'U make me feel like cryin' too. Amelia — I can't help it. indeed I can't. I am on my way to the trial, and every one says poor Captain Randolph will be found guilty, and that will kill ray young lady. Oh! I can't bear it. (weeps.) Tim — But, me dear, they can't find him guilty, for he dinn't do it. I could bear witness to that. • Amelia — You! You? 37 Tim — Yes, mo dear, 1 was in the garden when the shot was liretl, ami I saw ("aptain Randolph nisli into the room jusr after. Amelia — Then wh}- — Oli! why — did you uol tell about ity Tim — Shure. it would be more than me |)laee is worth. Mr. ToUington wouM turn me oft". Amelia — Never miud that, my dear Tim. You say you love me; if your evidence clears (?aptain Randolph, 1 will marry you. Do you hear that? Tim — Then, by the piper that played before Moses, ye'r mine, me darlint, tor I know more nor that — T saw the man fire the shot. Amelia — Then come along to the court with me at once. Tim — Hurrah! To the divil with Mister ToUington. Bejabers, I'll make short work of him. Now give me a kiss aod away we go. (kisses her.) Exit. R. E. SCENE FIFTH -English Court of Justice. Enter Sheriff with Prisoner. Clerk — Harry Randolph, you are indicted of having on the night of Thursday, the 15th day of August caused the death of Banker Forsythe from a pistol shot discharg- ed by your hand. Judge — Prisoner at the bar, you have heard the charge, have you anything to say? Are you guilty, or not guilty? Captain R — Not guilty. Clerk — To the prisoner: — These good men which you now see are those which are to pass between our Soverign Lady, the Queen, and 3'ou. If, therefore, you challenge them or any of them, do so now and you shall be heard. Captain R^ — I am satisfied. Crier — If any one can inform m^^ Lords, the Queen's Justices, the Queen's Servants or the Queen's Attorney, as this inquest to be taken between our Soverign Lady, the Queen, and the prisoner at the bar, of any treason, murder, felonish or other misdemeanor committed or done by him, let him come forth and he will be heard, for the prisoner now standing at the bar on his deliverance. God save the Queen. 38 Clerk, addressing the jury — Jury, look upon the pris- omr, y<^u that are sworne, and harken to the evideut-e. (callintf the witnesses) Philip Tollingtoa. Phup T — I have known Banker Forsythe for fifteen years. On the night he was murdered, I was going to his house, and when passing the library window, 1 haard loud and angry voices coming from within. Not caring to enter at such a time, I sat down on the outside. I had been there but a short time when I heard the report of a weapon. 1 rushed into the house and into the library. 1 found Banker forsythe 1\ ing upon the floor, his daugliter was kneeling beside him, and the prisoner was standing near with the weapon still in his hand. Next witness called Harris Welby. Harris — 1 have been in Banker Forsythe's family for five years; I am employed as butler. On the night he was murdered, I was passing the library, the door was open and 1 looked in. Banker Forsythe was standing near the open window; 1 could not see his face. Captain Randolph was walkihg to and froe in an agitated manner. 1 passed on to another room. I had been there but a short time when I heard the report of a weapon. I hastened back into the library, just as Mr. Tollington was entering. My master was lying upon the floor, his daughten was beside him, and the prisoner was standing by with a weapos in his hand, Ethel takes the stand. Ethel — I was seated in the lawn, when I v/as startled by the report of a pistol near at hand. I imiLediately went in the direction from whence it cam^', and I found — Proecuting Attorney — What did you find? Ethel — My father lying upon the floor. P A — Was there any one ffith him? Ethel — There was. P A — In what position was that person? Ethel — He wos bending over my father. P A. — Had he a pistol in his hand? Ethel — He had. P A — Did you recognize this person? Ethel — I did. P A — Who was it? Ethel — It was — it was — P A — Tell us who it was. 39 Ethel — It was ('ap -Oh! spare rao! (weeps) Judge — That will do. P A — Was it the prisoner? Ethki. — It was. Enter Amelia and Tim, R. E.— Walks over to Kamlolpli's lawyer. P A., rising — My Lord, and gentlemen of the jury: I am not about to occupy your time with a long harangue, or a grand display of eloquence, because, in the case before us, I feel it is entirely unnecessary. If I were to speak never a word, this intelligent jury would, from the evidence they have heard, at once bring in a veidict of guilt3^ Never before were the proofs so damning, and conclusive; never before was the chain of evidence so clear and unbrok- en ; never before—- Defendant's Attorney — One moment, if you please, Mr attorney, (turns to Judge) May it please your Lord- ship, we have a witness here for the defence, whosa evidence will, I am sure, clear up this mystery, if your Lordship will allow him to be placed upon the stand. J — Certainly. Swear the witness. Tim Sworn. D A — Now sir, what's your name? Tim — Tim O'Raffert^^ maj^ it plaze your honor. D A — What's your occupation? Tim — Sarvant to Mr. ToUington. D A — Can you remember where you were at the time of the murder. Tim — I was in Banker Forsythe's garden D A — What were you doing there? Tim — I came wid me master. D A — Now sir state what you know of this affair. Tim — Well, your honor, I was walkin' in the garden, near the winde}', when I seed the flash an' heard the report of a pistol. Directly after I seed Cap'in Randolph rush in- to the house. D A — You say you saw the flash of the pistol, did you see the person who fired it? Tim — I did, yer honor. D A — Was it the prisoner at the bar, Tim — No. yer honor, it was not. He was on the other side of me and near the door. 40 D A — Then if the pris^oner did not fire the shot, who did? Tim — Yer honor, it was Mr. ToUington. He tired ih at the winder and threw the pistol into the room. Philip T — Villian ! I will murder you. Tim — Not till I've danced on yer grave. Judge — Bailiff, arrest that man. Philip T — Stand off. Yes, gentlemen, 1 did murder the old fool. I overheard the" conversation between him and Captain Randolph, and I knew that unless something desperate was done, I would be a ruined man. The oppor- tunity was at hand. I waited until Randolph came out, and then shot the Banker through the window, knowing that Randolph would be accused for it. JuDGE-v-Captain Randolph, you are acquited. You are a free man. Captain R., steps forwayd — Dauntless! Philip T., turning to Randolph — Randolph, you have triumphed, curse you! but I shall win in the end. (draws a dagger and strikes at Dauntless. Randolph stayes his hand.) Tableau — Curtain ascending slowly. ToUington in the hands of the officer. . ■ Dauntless in Randolph's arms, Amelia in Tim's. THE EKD.