^55:5 ]^72 CC ^«^^»^•^^-^.^-^^-^-^•^4"^^»^^-*^4■°•^•^'^4••^•^^-»^ ASSASSINATION OF FRANCISCO MADERO A TRAGEDY IN FOUR ACTS BY JOSE A. MORALES -I* •I- •I- •J. ►I- 4- -I- •I- -J- •I- •I* OCT 29 ':^3 JOSE. A. MORALES, B. S., LL. B. P5 35^5 DR. JOSEPH J. LAFONT To you, fair minded loyal friend, I dedicate this "work as a happy reminder of the glorious forty- eight hours we spent together at Hotel Du Meridith, as guests of the late John B. Fisher. SEPTEMBER 30, 1922. JOSE A, MORALES, CAST OF CHARACTERS FRANCISCO MADERO Preudeni PINO SUAEEZ Vice-President MADAME MADERO Wife of the President FELIX DIAZ A General in Revolt BERNARDO REYES VICTORIANO HUERTA GENERAL MONDRAGON Y^^'^'P'^'^io^^ COLONEL RIVEROL DOLORES, A Society) Lad}) GLORIA, Niece of Madame Madero TISOLlTO.Secre/ari? to Madero GARMENDIA. High Officer under Madero GAMBOA, High Secretary} under Huerta DON MONCHO, Chief of Police GENERAL RABAGO, In Command of the Federal Troops GENERAL CARRANZA.C.^ie/ of the Constitutionalists JOHN LIND.t/. 5. Ambassador FEDERAL SOLDIERS OFFICERS REBELS NOTE: This scene takes place in Mexico City in 1912 to 1913. FRANCISCO MADERO Act I. Scene I. A Boulevard. Enter Gloria, Tisolito The feast of the flowers^ where people celebrate by throwing flowers at each other. Ladies carry large bouquets, and vehicles ride upon the streets adorned with flowers. A piebald-pageant files down Main street, while people watph from galleries and balconies land from the street below, applauding as it passes. The first float represents a Peacock made out of gaudy strings of flowers, the second represents the entry of Madero into Mexico City, this one is greatly applauded. Clor. (To Tisolito) With a bluet and these carnations I meet you on this occasion. Tis. And with this Marguerete I greet you. Clor. Ah but with the rose in red I speak to you. Tis. And with the one in pink I answer. Clor. Do you love me so? Tis. Do I? Ask the angels if they love their heavenly home; ask the fishes if they love their deep azure, in their answer you will know how much I love you. Clor. And if they answer me not? Tis. Still my thoughts will say it. slowly, I love thee. Ctor. 1 hen have some poppies. Tis. And I return your rose. Clor. Here is a jasmine, that you may think of me after this. Tis. And in return I hand you a "forget-me-not". Clor. Do we really understand the language of the flowers? Tis. If we don't, our eyes understand each other, for in them we read the dawning of our future paradise of love. Clor. I love flowers with all my heart. Tis. And I love you to the very depth of my soul. Clor. You do? Tis. Yes, you see. as the law of gravity explains the movementi of heavenly bodies, flowers explain the attraction between' two lovers. Clor. Do you think it is electricity what explains that attraction, or is it the fragrance of the flowers that maintains it? It is all fancy. The Greeks generally hit off in a beau- tiful way that love which we express in the ugluiest and most labored manner. But the Greeks knew there was nothing after death; they concentrated on the art of love and mastered it better than any other race before or since. To them there wasn't anything half so interesting as a woman in love and what she would do to make the one she loved happy. It is all a passing fancy. This morning when I looked at the aurora gradually dis- appearing before the threatening rays of the sun, I won- dered what it reminded me of. It was your pretty eyes. It is great. You certainly must be in love. I love you. We ought to be united and live happy ever after. But mother will not let me marry so soon. Dearest, we love each other — don't we? We do, but it can't be, mother must be considered. I will persuade her; I will tell her we are to each other what the reflection of the bright moon is to the little lake. You are not afraid to ask her? No, I will ask her at the national ball to night. I will see you there (Exeunt) Scene II. A street Enter TisoUto, Carmendia. Garm. Whence comes thou? Tis. From taking Gloria to her home. Garm. That girl is an angel. She has such a poise, such style. Tis. To an* artist such rare type of beauty is bewildering and inspiring. Garm. She loves you dearly. Tis. My thoughts are all of her, though my mind bears a dis- quieting uncertainty that, at times, torments me frightfully, Garm. Oh you are jealous of Riverol, Tis. Indeed, I am. Garm. I have heard very nice things about him. Tis. What have you heard? Carm. It seems that he is behaving like a blackguard, getting drunk and contracting heavy debts. Tis. I never heard that before. ^ Carm. He can't deny it, I knowr it. Tis. But he will not admit it. Carm. He is not your rival. The passion of a sublime and beautiful love comes but once to mortals. It is lighten- ing. A heart once touched by it, becomes such a vv^aste that no other sentiments can take root, not even dreams. Tis. The sentiment of the sublime differs from that of the beautiful. The one pleases and delights, the other over- awes and elevates. Whatever tends to carry away the mind into the infinite raises that idea and feeling called the sublime. Whatever pleases and delights with its essence of truth is called beautiful. Carm. The feeling of sublimity is that which fills the mind's imagining power, suggesting something greater and higher. Thus, astronomy stirs up our emotions because it carries the mind into the immeasurable depths of space. Geology exalts the mind by the long vistas opened of ages of which we can't detect the beginning. Gloria loves you without respite; she is beautiful, her love for you is sublime. Tis. What a bliss to live enveloped in such intense unwavering affection. Carm. She loves you madly. You are the man she thinks of. She does not know if another man exists. Tia. T here is no denying the fact, only women know how to love. Enter Dolores Dol. (After the greetings) Have you heard the news? Carm. You speak about the national ball? Dol. No, I mean rumors of grave note. Tis. Upon what subject, pray. Dol. I am just from the President's office. Carm. Then it must be rumors of military nature? Tis. On my way down I saw Huerta and Riverol rushing to- wards the Palace. Dol. News from military channels are that General Diaz has surrendered at Vera Cruz and Villa chased into the Maltrata mountains. Tis. Then, peace will follow? Carm. Any torturous punishment known to the evil mind will be too light for those bandits. Tis. How does the President look upon the accomplishment? Dol. He is jubilant, though news has reached him that Reyes has crossed the Rio Grande and intends to lead a revolt against the capital. Garm. Reyes in Mexico, Leading a revolt? I thought the old Cientifico was in Europe consoling his distressed comrade Porfirio. 7 is. His prestige is all consumed; he will advance as far only as the next federal jail where he will be graciously lodged for the rest of his days. Carm. What disposition have they made of Diaz. Dol. Orders were issued to transfer him to the penitentiary of Santa Ulua to be tried by court martial. Carm. He will be shot as a traitor, Tis. His trial will settle his account. Dol. I fear his numerous friends will help him in his present plight. Tis. I hope the blessing of peace has come. Carm. There's no fear of further disturbances. (Exeunt) Scene III. A Tavern. Enter Dolores — Riverol (The stage will present a Cafe with tables, chairs, waiters serving liquor, coffee, etc.) Dol. It is the rare weather of May, the wind playfully chases coats and snatches hats down the street, yet the air is balmy, its soft touch lightens the heart Vith vague happi- ness. Riv. Oh, well, that's just a long roundabout way of saying that it is a charming day in spring time. Dol. The atmosphere is charged with life, beauty and joy. Riv. Yes, the feast of the flowers comes to heal the wounds in the hearts of a suffering people. Dol. When we reflect the basic strength of our people we must be confirmed pessimists or sheer ingrates if we fail to thrill to the spirit of this festivity. Riv. At no time in our favored past have we had greater reasons to thank fate for escaping the annoyances that arise from the vexing uncertainty of shifting revolutions. Enter Huerta — Mondragon (Huerta and Mondrflgon take seats at the table of Dolores and Rlverol. After greetings, drinks are or- dered for all four.) Riv. (Raising his glass) Here is to General Huerta, whose military glory shines like the polar star. Dol. And here is to General Mondragon, a genius in the art of artillery. Had he been at Leipsic in 1814 Napoleon would have not lost the battle of Laon and Blucher would have been sent to his Prussian home in disgrace. Riv. These are thriving times-thrift is blessing. He is blest who so ably guides our ship of state. Mond. His was a venture, a thing not in his power to bring to pass, but swayed by the hand of heaven was he chosen. Now is^ he master of our destinies. .Riv. Thirty years of cruel tyranny came to naught under his revolutionary blow and from Porfirio Diaz the crown fell in disgrace and buried itself in the land of slush. Dol. Though a true gentleman, yet he is not shaped to rule. Riv. Remember that before his colossal advance all Myrmidons disappeared as if the earth had given way under them. Dol. Yet, rumors are that men better trained in the military art ought to be in high command. Riv. Evil souls producing holy mandataries are like a villian with a smiling cheek ; like a fresh apple with a rotten heart Hrta. What means this shouting that deafens all senses Dol. The vulgar on the street acclaiming the "Pact de Quez- altenango". Riv. The Mexican people give vent to their demonstrations of gratitude and receive the hero of Torreon in triumph, with flowers, with beautiful diadems. Mond. He soars above the view of ordinary men, bent in keep- ing us in servile fearfulness, while the great Huerta, in his hidden worthiness, sleeps in the glory of his noble ancestors. Hrta. Be not deceived for I shall not be tempted, though, indeed, I would not have it so. Mond. Am I to think that you are indifferent to the call of the people for some one suitable? Hrta. Perhaps so for I love him well. Mond. That virtue is in you. I cannot tell w^hat you and others think, as for myself I was born free, so were you. Hrta. I understand you not, though I perceive force in the tenor of your language. Perhaps on better occasion our words may meet and merge. Mond. Let's hope so. (Exeunt) Act II. Scene IV. A Residence. Enter Madera — Madame. The stage will present a residence, elegantly fitted, servants, etc. It is the residence of the President of the Republic. Mme. Though I never stood on ceremonies, yet we must believe in the mystery of death and its uncertain hour of visita- tion. Mad. The order of things don't seem to agree with you; the political atmosphere frightens you. Mme. I have a premonition. It is a fair warning. Mad. Have courage the situation will soon clear out, there is no reason for fears. Mme. My fortune teller has been with me lately and in the mystery of her works she warns me of another impending war. She showed me in her glass of visions ranks and ' squadrons marching to the battlefield, then you were brought out of the battle mortally wounded by a friend and there I could see your pallid face bathed in blood. Mad. The things that threaten me are easily overcome; they appear from behind but soon vanish in my face. Mme. Yet I feel as if I were possessed of something inexplic- able; a self nostalgia germinates at the bottom of rny heart which foretells of a dark presentiment. Mad. It is all a mere reaction of your nerves. You must protect your health from the raw mist of the early morning and prevent a disagreeable spell of cold. Mme. I would gladly retire to my room on condition that you do not go forth on this gloomy day, rather would I remain by your side and watch over you, my dear. Mad. (Kissing her) You are the greatest woman of this age. I pray God I may live to honor in the highest sense your love and kindness. Enter Tisolito Tis. (Bowing reverently) I greet both, the first lady and the first citizen of our country. (Madame bows in answer to the greetings) . Mad. Thanks, what news do you bring? Tis. The times don't agree. The people have lost their gaiety and now they walk upon the streets as if in fear, as if in expectation. They talk low, leaving the observer in doubt. Your name. Sir, is reverently mentioned where- ever one goes. Mad. That's only the after-math of the festivities just gone by. Mme. The beginning of every feast is always full of mirth, though the end is absorving and lacking in merriment. Enter Officers Offr. (Standing before Madero) Sire! The trial of General Diaz is announced and your presence is desired by the tribunal. Mad. I shall appear instantly. Offr. Your orders shall be obeyed. (Officer salutes and leaves) . Mad. (Taking his hat) Oh heart let's predict that in this affair thou wilst take no part. Mrre. (Running to Madero) O, dear, I pray you shall not stir out of this house to day. Let Tisolito appear in your stead. Mad. I shall go forth. The tribunal waits my appearance. Tisolito will remain and appease your unfounded fear. Tis. A great pleasure, indeed. Mad. The things that God disposes are beyond the power of men. If it be the will of God, your fears will not ex- tinguish the danger. Cling to ci-feirage, all the miscon- ceived emotions in your mind shall be put away forever; confidence will follow doubt. (Exeunt) 5cene V. A Court Martial Enter Madero, Huerla, Diaz, Prosecutor, The Court. Before the court General Diaz wears the garb of general of the Mexico Army. The prosecutor and four generals will constitute the court-martial. Madero sits near Huerta. The Crt. (Addressing Madero) Mr. President, your kind atten- tion that you may hear the decision of this tribunal in the matter of the rebel Felix Diaz who recently pronounced himself in arms against the contituticnal government so- wisely represented by your honorable self. Mad. I hear, the court may proceed. The Crt. Considering the popular indignation caused by the uprising of Felix Diaz in the province of Vera Cruz of such magnitude as to render the envious general a deplor- able shame to the noble Aztec race; considering that in his appetite for power he shed the blood of soldiers loyal to the country; considering, further, that a vinculum of the exiled Porfirio Diaz will forever constitute a scuff in the history of Mexico; be it decreed: that this august tribunal inspired solely by its serene rectitude and obey- ing only to the high spirit of law and justice, finds Felix Diaz guilty of high treason and condemns him to suffer capital punishment, death without mercy. Pros. Illustrious comrades the accused has been righteously condemned for his offenses. The Crt. May the mercy of heaven give him strength to discard his sentiments. Diaz. Gentlemen, behold my deplorable state of nervousness. , I hardly know what to say under this predicament. Pros. 1 rembling is a characteristic of every coward. Diaz. (Addressing Madero) Pious Sir, my death is certain; It seems to reflect in the glare of this burning day. Mad. I shall not be the sexton to dig your miserable grave. I shall not baiter my grand progeny for so odious an undertaking. To mark you as a traitor my contumely suffices. Yesterday I saved the unworthy life of Reyes today I pardon you in the same manner. Go, may God aid you to better purposes. The Crt. (To Madero) Noble sir, be not lenient thus. The existence of this miscreant constitutes a menace to the tranquility of the nation. Mad. That has not escaped me. He is a typical chip off the old block, I well know his stock. Hrta Sir, beware of this serpent. Mad. I do not fear, so long as I have near me your strong arm, rebellions are mere dreams, illusions of ephemeral duration. Your loyalty is my watchful guardian. Upon your noble sword rests the traditional grandness of Mexico. Hria. I graciously thank you in the name of the Federal Em- blem; that glorious standard, symbolical representation of the Mexican people. (Madero, Huerta shake hands — Curtain drops) Scene VI. A Palace. Enter Madero — Tisolito On raising the curtain the stage will present a Presidential Hall elegantly decorated. Desk in center with teleulhone attached, Madero penamtmlates the room. Mad. I still remember when in the battle field ruffling, the biblical standard of justice, honor and patriotism, the clamorous shout for the liberation of my people was universally felt indeed. Tis. It was war without end. Mad. All seemed to announce a new era, a brighter future, but the times of convulsions have again reappeared and the sky of my hopes, heretofore blue and clear, has of a sudden turned into formidable clouds of darkness. Tis. These clouds now take the shape of the storm that is to come. Mad. Martyr to the principle of democracy, I now travel upon this political highway like unto the legend of the Wander- ing Jew, shouldering a monumental luggage repleted with sorrows and deceptions. Tis. By the everlasting convulsions Mexi^ has deprived you of elucidating your democratic energies. Mad. The people is an incomprehensible enigma. When it equrvocates an ideal for an idol it is like the f oming waves of turbulent sea-subject to high water. That's why out of my glories for redemption I see only the empty hopes of a frigid pole. Tis. It is not the end, it's only a small-sized beginning. How- ever, there is no reason for alarm. Mad. Nothing seems to worry you, I would like to know whether you were born that way or did you make your- self over. Tis. whatever I may be I was made to be by force of circum- stances. Mad. 1 like your disposition and the manner you dispose of social matters in general. Tis. I have always wished to keep out of the social catalogue, but society is an encroachment upon human happiness. Mad. It is, I was far better before assuming the responsibilities which now rest upon my shoulder, and which threaten to disrupt the whole social structure of the country. Tis. You waste your brains over matters you should not worry about while you look with indifference over things of great weight. Use more diplomacy and philosophy to lighten tha burden of your every day affairs. Mad. Dipolomacy must work out itself without the interference of outside influences. It is the only means of reaching the social strata and the lower classes with which the government is concerned. Tis. Diplomacy is the language of nations and philosophy is the science that gives us a clear and better understand- ing of life and its mysteries. Thus, physics is concerned with those general phenomena, action and properties of bodies which do not involve any substantial change; Chemistry investigates the difference between simple and compound bodies and the laws according to which these bodies combine and dissolve ; Astronomy deals with the magnitude and distance of heavenly bodies and determines the laws which govern their motions ; Mechanics deals with the general laws of motions and equilibrium; zoology treats of animals and botany of plants, while geology is concerned with the structure of the earth; Mineralogy with mineral and Paleontology with fossils organisms hidden in the bowels of the earth. Mad. A very intellectual narration, but you have left out the im- portant branches of philosophy. Ti&. Well, Ontology or Metaphysics, as Andronicus would have it, may be defined as the science of things either positively or negatively immaterial or that which surpass and excludes matters; Cosmology, on the other hand is the philosophical science of the material or physical world; psychology, of course, is the doctrine of the soul. Mad. Yonr stupidity is unlimited, for again you have left out another important one — Theology. Th. Ah, that brings us into the things divine. It is all a doctrine of knowledge and faith. We have knowledge of the things which are before us, but as to the existence of God and the spiritual life we know of them only through faith. Mad. what of the world and its origin? Tis. Pantheists agree that God is everything and that every- thing is God. Materialists insist that all beings are one eternal substance having within itself sufficient reason of its existence, and this eternal and self-existence substance is matter. The modern school teaches that the material universe was created by God for his own ex- ternal glory and the happiness of his creatures. The last theory is supported by science. Mad. You ought to be a senator instead of a secretary. Tis. Not so; my knowledge of things is limited. You see, I once met a cynical fellow and I took care to pick up a good stock of his phrases. Whenever I am attacked by these social intellectuals or whenever I am feeling blue I trot out some of them and there is the secret of my entire cleverness, but if you talked to me on the subject for five minutes longer, you would pump me dry absolutely and I would have to revert to my country style. Mad^ If you are only fibbing to set me in good humour, it is a pleasant moment and I have enjoyed it. Th. I did intend to drive away your worries, though I have enough public spirit to see the necessity of your doing something before this unrest gets beyond control. Mad. I am prepared. Upon the wicked ones God will rain fire and brimstone ; the ransomed shall remain with everlasting joy where sorrow and sighing does not exist. Tis. Then, why worry? Mad. When one has been disillusioned in the way I have been, what else is there for him to think of? 1 is. It's enough, let's home, tomorrow will take care of itself. (Exeunt) Act HI. SceneVII. The Conspiracy. Enter Huerta — Mondragen The stage will present a secluded house surrounded by brick walls, bushes, etc. Mond. The fault is not with him, but in ourselves, that we move not while the country clamors for the strong arm of a fearless leader. Why, pray, should he shine more than you? Let him go with you on the batdefield and his will be a failure, while yours would be victory; an army crowned with glory. Hrla. You flatter me, though I deserve it not. Mond. His best, at his own side, have pictured him as cruel of eye, forbidding of countenance, a jaw of iron, a mouth sardonic, a tongue that lashes and stings with viperish hate and fury. The wise describes him as un- couth of speech, as threatening of gesture, as defiant in bearing. I describe him as rough in breeding and lack- ing in deportment. Hrla. I am listening. Mond. There are solemn and majestic officials slowly pacing in robes of state; there are wealthy residents in sleek limausines with their women in ermine and lace; there are paunchy merchants and slim clerks, stage princesses and acclaimed actresses, a glittering prima donna brought direct from Spain and a throng of well fed hoi polloi ready to do his bidding. Hrla. Go on; go on. Mond. In all this profligacy of magnificence, among all these resplendent citizens there is one who pales the others as the great setting sun pales the rising moon into nothiness. This one regal personage is none other than his excellency the chief of the nation. In manners he is not your superior, though in ignorance you are not his equal. Hrla. I have your love. You are moving me to that of which I have thought often times. Mond. I am only happy if my weak words have brought out that much fire from you. Hrla. The country has suffered enough. With love I entreat you to desist until such a time as better manifestations are shown. Mond. There are no better manifestations. Dolores informs me that Riverol is with us. Reyes is agreed. The army will follow you instantly. I shall answer on the block for failures. Lead ! Command ! ! We are ready to obey. Hrta. You over power me. Mond. Awake your senses that you may bettter understand. Hrla. (After a moment of pause) Mexico will be saved from further despotism. Fetch Reyes, Riverol and the others I will have word with them; together we shall chase the evil spirits that beset our national capital. Mend. (Aside) Ye Gods, the world moves! (Addressing Huerta) I will summon them to appear. But, look you, here comes Reyes, he knows this haunt well and soon will stand before you. Enter Reyes Ryes. The peace of God be with you. Hrla. Good will to you, my dear General. Ryes. The bright lines in the silvery moon, noticed from afar, seem to announce a glorious night. Mond. They announce the concordance of thoughts in the mind of men of destiny. Hrta. They will in no distant future tell us in glad fashion what has proceeded worthy of note from this night. Ryes. I miss Riverol. His absence denotes a significant symptom which we cannot ignore. Mond. I hear the sound of steps, (Looking into the space through a half opened window) It is Riverol, he is arrived. Enter Riverol Riv. In the name of everything that is grand, I greet you. Mond. In the name of everything that is high we welcome you. R^es. Gentlemen, be seated. Riv. Silence. Ho-Huerta speaks. Hrta. Riverol, your cousin, Tisolito, who guards the desks at the palace must die, also Suarez. Both serve Madero in his false doctrines, therefore, mark them well. Riv. On condition that Diaz meets a similar fate. Mond. I like it not! It is well we think of liberating Diaz from his cell at Santa Ulua. His strong arm will be on our side. R^es. Together with the rich purse of his uncle Porfirio. Hrta. Well said. Diaz will gain freedom on the dawn of day, Riv. So be it; it is dotted. R^es. Madero into exile will go. Hrta. Destiny shall be the master of his fate. 1 Mond. Gentlemen, the clock strikes twelve times. 1 R])es. It is done. Upon the early morrow, Huerta will attack from the Ciudadela, Mondragon will take the environs of Tacuba and Tacubaya, while Riverol will pace the streets and avenues with an eye single to the movement of things. Riv. (To Reyes) And you, my venerable General? Ryes. I with Diaz will invade the markets and open places and from the galleries will denounce Madero's nepotism and proclaim aloud freedom and liberty. Mond. And the enfranchisement of the people. Riv. To which end we bind ourselves in oath. Mond. Our military honor suffices. (Exeunt) Scene VUI. The same Palace. Enter Madero — Tisolito. Mad. Here will I stand till news come this way. Tis. May God defend our side. This shooting crips into my nerves. It seems the people are celebrating their doom. Mad. Go fetch the news, the people will be attended to later. Tis. Military restriction do not belong to this age. A cock fight, a bull in the arena and a game of poker are things to be desired with preference to a shower of lead in a dark night. I well know my people. Mad. Stay not to irritate me, I shall have the news. I would have you go to the Senate and return here at once. Tis. I leave at your command, trusting that upon my return no harm has been intended towards you. (Exit Tisolito) Mad. To Huerta. (Tel. Rings) Hello! Hello!! Perfectly well, Order a reserve against the environs of Tacuba and Tacubaya. This position is lost? Take a batallion to the infested area and give battle to Mondragon. You say he is entrenched and that Chapultepec is im- pervious? Where is your military prestige and the bold- ness so often related to me? (Hangs receiver) Re-enter Tisolito 1 IS. Gen. Diaz is upon the streets, my own eyes are witnesses, soldiers rush to and fro, men seek shelter, Reyes was shot dead on Juarez street, the Senate is empty and no reports are forth-coming. I was in haste pursued by brigands with knives in hand, scaping only when I jumped the ramparts of Paseo de las Flores. Take heed, they are coming this way. Mad. The good wind of fate with these traitors do contrive quick, guard the entrance and report their approach. Tis. The report of my gum will be the signal. (Exit Tisolito) Mad. In honor to the truth, the blame of this dreadful tragedy rests with my tender heart. I have ruled the Mexican people with kindness, forgetting that the -social condition of this country requires a stern hand to sustain the glorious aegis of peace. Huerta was right when in a moment of paroxysm warned me against these serpents. (The report of a connon is heard near the palace) . I hear the raging battle with its odious task of destruction, with its endless chain of misery. The lamentable heca- tomb of the God of deveastation is tthe factor in this disastrous drama. (A 'bonibaihdinent is heard in the distance). ■'., Ihe sounding detonation of that tiger of war seems to ^ announce my victory over the Ciudadela. This titanic : struggle between Mondragon and myself has lasted nine days but, now, with the shame of his tumbling routing he will capitulate in despair. Enter Suarez, Garmcndia ! ' ' '"' '] Srez. Treason ! Treason ! ! It is Treason. ^ Mad. What is the meaning of all this ? Speak ! Carm. It is nefarious, ignominious, the most stupendous act of treachery. Their action has no precedent in the annals of the history of this nation. Mad. But who is the traitor? Srez. Huerta has turned his sword against you. Mad. Be not deceived. Huerta is a man with two clever eyes which gaze forth with imdeceiving move. He is a gentleman. Carm. Diaz has joined in the fight against your government. Srez. Huerta., Diaz and Mondragon, beware! There is but one mind in them and it is bent against thee. If you \ are a mortal look about; security gives way to cojaspiracy. \\Carm. Gratitude is a rare gift, the public is. best at forgetting. Mlad. Men are flesh and blood and apprehensive, but I cannot doubt Huerta's loyalty. Srez. At this time you are deserted. Your enemies have hoisted the war flag — a dark future is to follow. Mad. What! Rapine, crime; never. Justice is not alone, \ it will be assisted by the strength of my arms. Carm. (Drawing his pistol) And by the bullets in this revolver. Mad. Silence, I hear noise. It is Tisolito calling for help. To his assistance. (They attempt to rush out) Enter Riverol, Soldiers. Rtv. (Commanding Madero and the others to stop) Halt! Another move will be futile. Surrender in the name of the Ciudadela. M{ad. How darest thou invade the portals of this sanctum Your name, Sir, quick. Riv. I am here in the name of liberty, freedom and the en- franchisement of the people. My name is Riverol. Mad. (Indignantly) Ah, a former defender. Ingrate, clear the way at my command. Riv In the name of the law I arrest Francisco Madero. Carm. (Firing his pistol) In this way I reward a coward. (Riverol expires, soldiers place Madero under arrest Garmendia escapes, Tisolito hides himself.) Enter Huerta Mad. (On seeing Huerta) Ha. Endurate criminal — Away, away marked traitor — away. Hrta. You are under arrest, therefore brood not if you ap- preciate your position. Mad. Assassin, my only redress at this time (spitting in Huera's face) is to discharge my sentiments in your dis- honoraole face. Hrta. (To soldiers) Kill! Slay — Ultimate them. Be done with them. (Soldiers inflict upon them a shower of blows with but-end of their carabines, Madero and Suarez run a. distance and are agaia attacked.) Srez. Murderers. Traitors. Cowards. 'Mad. Help! Help!! (The report of a fusillade is heard, the victims are no more.) Tis. (Carrying the body of Madero) Oh, land of Juarez, thou hast lost the breed of noble blood. We are under- lings of an age without conscience. (Placing the body on the floor) Noble ruler of modern Mexico, here you lie after serving democracy with unsAvering zeal. He who gave his people counsel in all matters of pubic life and had to do vsnth many men in all social strata by all of whom he was revered and esteemed. (Leaning over the body) In the daily affairs his great ability, his skill, statecraft, and shrewed .knowledge of mankind shone forth most brilliant. (Imploring heaven) Here you lie, fearful evidence of what men will do to men under the lash of prejudic and hate, harvested upon the bloody fields of battle. He was so tender, so grateful. May his soul rest in peace. (Curtain drops) Scene IX. A Meeting. Enter Gloria, Tisolito (Tllie stage will present an ordinary residence, fac- ing a street-O Clo. I am just arrived in the middle of the cruel happenings of the past two weeks. My love for you brings me here. Tis. 1 don't pretend to understand, but I imagin that in a moment of reckless bravado you have come to a city where everything threatens our complete extermination. I have very serious news for you. Clo. I know it all it's an awful thing to think of, but what concerns me at this moment is your immediate safety. Tis. That is exceptionally good of you considering the dangers you have been through. Clo. What is to be done (a moment's silence) men have lost their moral sense. Tis. Our duty is plain. • Clo. Yes, there is a duty to our profession. Ours is a fine calling — revenge — on the good faith of those loyal to his memory, a great deal hangs. Tis. (After a pause) We can't tell what the result of this collapse will be. Clo. (Unflinching) At any rate, what end is served, by your staying in this city of tormoil, where we are no longer sure of our safety. Tis. We must avenge our blood and save our honor. Clo. Better go! There is war in North Mexico and Gar- mendia is on his way to join it. Tis. (With a smile) good old Garmendia, he is a man. Clo. The truth we shall carry towards the north where Carranza prepares to avenge this dastardly crime. Tis. Yes, the news we will spread on both sides of the road. You keep to the right, I shall to the left, and at each station our circulars will announce to the people in what manner Huerta and the others ultimated their idol. Clo. We must not in our daily attires go forth, recognition may give away our plan and thus aid our enemies. Tis. We will disguise as common peons in hunt for honest work, and know each other not, except on occasion when the keen eye of the spy is not upon us. (A rap, two raps, Gloria answers the door.) Enter Inspector. Insptr. Well, Madam, it's no use disguising. We have heard your conversation. I am exceedingly sorry, but I have a warrant for the arrest of Mr. Tisolito. Clo. (Recognizing in the new inspector an old friend of the family) Inspector, Moncho! Insptr. 1 have every sympathy for you, madam; but I must carry out the instructions of my superiors. Clor. And humiliate me so? Insptr. I am very sorry. Clor. His arrest will break my heart, it will ruin my life forever. Insptr. The law is the law.. Clor. (Imploringly) It's two lives — two whole lives! It is such a minor thing for you ; no body will ever know. His .arreet means immediate execution. It means the continuation of a tragedy which pales into nothingness the slaughter of The Innocents by King Herod, the Crucifixion of our Lord, the persecution of the early christians under the Roman Empire, the atrocities of St. Bartholomew's night in France and the holocaust of the inquisition in Spain; it means a revival of the countless outrages that men have wreaked on each other in all past ages. Oh please let him go, won't you? Insptr. Madam, you must know my duty. Clor. But I beseech you. Hold me in his stead, throw me in jail, plunge me into a dongeon and let him go. Do this, only this, and may the God of my fathers reward you with all the greatness of this life. Insptr. No, no, don't try to swerve me from my duties. I am sorry for you but don't try it, please don't. Clor. O, God, have mercy. Since the very beginning of time women have been begging and imploring for those dear to them, while men turn a deaf ear to their pleadings. Tis. (Addressing the inspector) Coward! Many times we saved your life from the ravages of the old regime. (Shoots the inspector) Ungrateful, the pleadings of a helpless woman are not to be thus ignored. (Inspector falls and dies). Clor. God! What have you done? ris. (Dragging her by the arm) Quick — ^To safety we must fly. (Exeunt — Curtain drops) Act IV. Scene X. A Forest. Enter Carmendia, Tisolito (The stage will present a forest surrounded by moun- tains, with many sioattered tents, inhabited by men of the revolutionary party.) Carm. He is dead to the world, but his memory lives in the spirit of the things, which are about to happen. Tis. With my own hands I buried him and took care to mark his grave so that upon return we can reverently kneel by the side of his remains. Garm. I ran as a coward would, leaving him to the grim mercy of his bitter enemies. Tis. You ran as a man of prudence would, for had you re- mained a second longer you woun't be a thing of this would to day. But come, what is our next step. Carm. Take the nearest at hand. The first five hundred men will join me before night dawns; five hundred more will just about start things going, maybe! Tis. With one thousand strong we can join forces with Car- ranza and engage the enemy. Enter Gloria Glo. (Embracing Tisolito and greeting Garmendia) One thousand are avaible and the Chief is acquainted, from him I bear your military credentials. Yours (handing document to Garmendia) with the rank of Captain and yours, (handing document to Tisolito) that of First Lieutenant. Garm. (Reading his) It says here we are to march forthwith against the forts of Guadalajara on the southwestern road. Tis. (Reading) I must obey your command, that's all. Clo. Yes; the First Chief advances from the opposite side, expecting thus to surround the enemy and prevent escape. Carm. I am now able to face those cowards on level ground. Clo. I say to you, not one among those plunged so deeply in the bloody mire of sin and degradation against our late Madero can be cleansed or made white. Huerta, Diaz, Mondragon and the others have wronged this nation; say to them that they must answer for their sins; the laws of our constitution will be reflected in our daily acts and attitude. Tis. (To Gloria) You are a dear, (Kisses her). Carm She understands well. Clo. Let your emotions carry you to the right decision and bring to account the guilty ones. To every thinking Mexican the sun rises and sets on this revolution. 7"[5. We are moved by emotions and by a display of overawing sentiment. Clo. Duty to ourselves is great, but duty to our mother country is far greater. Carm. It is thus we are moved by the howl of this political tempest and the raging of this sea of blood, both pro- ducing a terrible havoc. As the roar of the waterfall, the crash of the avalanche, the prolonged growl of thunder, and the sudden shaking of the ground as the result of an earthquake fill our minds in our endeavor to realize them, so our present mission leads to the apprehension of a well defined effect that is to follow. Clo. To arms! There is no time to waste. Tis. The echo answers: To arms-! (Exeunt) Scene XI. War and Clory. Enter Carranza, Cloria, Officers, Rebels The stage -will present a camp provided with pieces of artillery tents, military wagons, etc., etc. Carranza and his staff. The rebels will wear field-dresses and mexican sombreros, revolvers, knives, etc. Carnza. (Reading his manifesto to his followers) My countrymen ; we gather here tonight like the clans of old to deliberate upon the future of our native land, vvhich has been precipitated into a critical position by the Brutus and Cassius, whose souls have reincarnated in the person of Huerta and Mondragon. The watchful eye of the powerful nations are upon us, anxiously awainting our strenuous protestation in behalf of the right of free men. The inquisitorial yoke of Europe was never shaped to fit us; the imperial crown of Maximilian met with defeat at the hands of our noble ancestors. (Applause and hurrahs) Clo. We are strong and the time is ripe. This is our protest in order that our brothers of the civilized nations may the better judge the phalanx of delinquents who sealed their ignominious crime with the innocent blood of our Madero. (More applause and hurrahs) Carnza. Huerta is a man of the savage type, who, like the Greeks of Troy took advantage of the darkness to plunge his sword into the heart of noble Madero; now he be- strides narrow Mexico and like a hungry African tiger devours his victims at pleasured Clo. (Interrupting again) Justice will triumph and those degenerated desperados will meet their dondign punish- ment in time. Let's have confidence in ourselves, our success is a reality. Rebls. On to Mexico! Garnza. As the legitimate representatives of our constitutional ideals it devolves upon us to bring into effect this patriotic movement, not only by the approval of those who from distant countries are watching us but by hoist- ing our colors over the capital. Our rebellious aim will be consecrated in the history of nations by monu- mental pages of glory, because in this struggle we re- present law and justice while Huerta is only a symbol of treason and disaster. ^ (The sound of the drum is heard) Fellow Mexicans give ear to the sonorous sound of that drum which, with the enthusiasm of the moment, idalls us to engage the enemy in battle. We shall turn the cutting edge of our sabres against the enemy using them effectively in destroying forever the plague of traitors who so consciously stain the name of our nation. Rebls. On to Mexico. Let's go Clo. (Pointing her finger to Carranza) Let's take oath to die by our great leader but never to surrender. Rebls. We swear by the last drop of our blood, (The bugle sounds in. the distance.) Crnza. My friends duty calls, for our principle we shall die. Offers. (To rebels) Fall-in. Attention! Forward march ! ! Batallion halt! Form the lines. Aim- Fire! (A general fusilade between rebels under Carranza and the federals under Gen. RiHibago.) Fdrals. (In the middle of the battle) Hurrah for Mexico. Rbels. (Parring the blows) Hurrah for Carranza! Fdrals. (Keeping up the advance) Hurrah for Huerta! Rbels. (Putting up double resistance) Hurrah for the Con- stitution ! Fdrals and Rebels. (In hand to hand fight) O'Lord! Help Help. My life is extinct. May God forgive my trespasses. (Soldiers expire) Scene XII. U. S. Intervention Enter Huerta, Gamboa. t'he stage will present a hall witJh three windows. The windows will show the caricatures of germany, France and England. On the interior of the hall five women are painted, hanging from lirabs, each one re- presenting, respectively: Porto Rico Bill Hollander Cuba The Platt-Amendment Philipines Joe Cannon Nicaragua Dawson Treaty Panama Roosevelt Coup D'Etatt Hrta. The public conscience has branded me as a traitor, a murderer, a degenerated myrmidon, a man without honor, a disloyal friend, but that matters not; my ambition was to reach this goal (pointing to the presidential chair) and here I am. Cmboa. Be what you may, your dictatorship is a established fact, and the Mexican nation bows to you in reverence. Hria. Justice and honor are traditional fables without a mean- ing; they are illusions of short duration. Cmboa. With you at the head of this government a new era is sounded. Our noble Rabago will soon arrive bearing the head of Carranza as David bore that of Golliah before King Saul. Hrta. Events of minor sequence worry me not, what preocupies me most at this time are (pointed to the three windows) these uncalled for interventions. Cmboa. There is nothing to fear. England is too busy with her political intrigues for the commercial encirclement of the world ; France still worries over Alsace-Lorraine, while Germany only dreams of her pan-germajiic expansion. Should they come we will meet them on the square. Hrla. If they come, Mexico will rise and mutiny by way of protestation. Cmboa. It all rests upon the wisdon of thy judgment. Enter Officers Ofcr. (Saluting) Your pardon. General. Outside the door awaits a cunning looking fellow who desires an audience with you. Hrta. Who is he What is he about? Ofcr. His name is John Lind : He claims to come as the ambassador of the United States. Cmboa. (To officer) What countenance does he bear? Ofcr. The smile that won't come out. Cmboa. It is a sinister smile common to these dry Yankees. Hrta. Let the gentleman in. Ofcr. (Opening the door and motioning to Lind) Come in. Enter Lind. (Lind wears the symboliaal dress of Uncle Sam and indignantly frowns at the three windows representing France, England and Germany). Lind. (Pointing to the windows) In this hall there is no room for intruders. (Then addressing Huerta), In the name of the grand nation I have the honor to re- present, I respectfully salute your excellency. Hrta. (To Lind) I am all attention. Lind. (Taking care to make himself understood). I do not bring intervention, I only want a diplomatic conversa- tion, but not in the presence of other nations. Hrta. (Still in doubt). Well, what is it that you desire, Monsieur? Lind. (With a smile) I don't parle Francais and Italian. I don't know. Hrta. (Insisting). But what is your mission? Lind. (Endeavoring further). We don't want more revolu- tions, but (lowering his voice) we want your abdication. Hrta. (Angrily) And in conclusion me to go? I shall not stand for mediations. Lind. I come in the name of humanity to save Mexico from perdition. Hrta. (Pointing to the pictures representing, Cuba, Porto Rico, etc.) Humanity you have mentioned? Tell me all about that Lind. (Surprised to see the spectacle). That's just the Monroe Law. (Then approaching the one represent- ing Nicaragua). This one is now good and quiet. It was sold to us by Chamorro, Estrada, Solorza.io Adolfo Diaz, and the Indian Mena. The price was lost in the count. Hrta. You have no shame. I may be assassin and traitor but I will not sell my country. You can go home with your civilization and hang your antiquated Monroe Law. Lind. The political significance of the Monroe Doctrine can- not be determined until the present chaotic conditions in Mexico bring interference from outside nations. Hrta. Mean time let's value highly the advantages that we possess of having been the oldest republican governments established in North America from the earliest periods of our respective declarations of independence. Lind. Such are the sentiments of the people I represent and such is their rule of conduct in their dealings with weaker countries. There is peace North of us; there will be peace south of us, even if to preserve it we must cross the Rio Grande. Hrta. Military demonstrations will be inte^reted by my people as an act of hostility. Lind. Your immediate abdication. Sir. Hrta. I have stood enough. You lack in propriety. Your impudence knows no bounds. Lind. (To himself). I know not what all this means, dip- lomacy is not my game. (Turning to Huerta). Aura voire. Monsieur Le General. (Lind is tflien escorted to liis automobile by Guards m attendance.) Re-enter Gamboa and Officers Gmboa. (Handing telegram to Huerta). News that the Americans are invading the city of Vera Cruz. Hrta. It is written. They will never rule Mexico. Ofcrs. (Handing papers to Huerta). More news that the students at the college of Belles Lettres are holding out Splendidly against the invaders, but must soon give up for lack of ammunition. Cmboa. (Raising his glass). Hurrah for General Huerta. Ofcrs. Hurrah for Mexico. Hrta. Hurrah for Latin America. —FINIS— AUTHOR OF TRIALS AND l RIBULATIONS. RISE AND FALL OF THE INVISIBLE EMPIRE. NEW ORLEANS REFORMED POLITICS. PUBLISHED BY The Southwestern Literary Society NEW ORLEANS, LA. COPYEIGIIT NOV. 1922