INNOCENT VICTIM ' A PLAY Dealing ivith Love and Maiviage of the ^^UNFIT" BY JESSE ASHMAN PRICE 35 CENTS L. .___=. .J U n INNOCENT VICTIM A PLAY Di'dliii,^ iritli Lore a lul Ms 1 see it. is too mighty to be trified with. To tell the truth, 14 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT 11 I am unfortunately afflicted with the ''fall- ing sickness." Dr. (in thundering tones). Rejected! No. 3 {retreating to door). When I was stricken before my sweetheart, she hurried after all the physicians in town. Before the first one had arrived, I fully recovered. I made her believe, without an extraordin- ary amount of labor on my part, that I ''fell for her." Thus she is still ignorant of my malady. I concede, however, the proposi- tion that falsehoods of this character .-.hould not be tolerated. The law, in a proper case, must speak and exact the virgin truth, even from lovers. But love's a malady without a cure. Ha ! ha ! ha ! Dr. (springing fonvard and grasping his hand). If you really love your girl you will not be believed until you conclusively prove it by committing suicide on her account. Your style of merely "falling for her" isn't enough for you. No. 3 (nodding). I've already decided to do that (Dr. applauds^, but for other good reasons. (B.vit.) (Door opens, and No. 4 rushes boldly in, ati.viously followed by his mother,) ACl II INNOCENT VICTIM 15 Aluriii'i^ {to Dr.). Yon rcallx' must ex- cuse me, sir, for comint^ in witliont rin|e;-ing, but my son Dr. I replying quickly). Uh I pshaw! What's the use of standing on ceremony. This being a pubHc place, there is an im- pHed hcense for the pubhc to enter during l)usiness hours. Mother. Quite right, Doctor. I can come in mostly anytime, but just don't kno\\' exactly about my getting out. My boy is an orphan, and his father had died and left me to struggle with him when he was only an infant of one year of age. Now, my poor child is sick all over. He is a bright, in- telligent boy, too. Dr. ( taking medicine bottle from Mother and smelling contents, and then making re- mark permeated with sarcasm). Madam, perhaps the casual observer could scarcely realize the fact that your son is afflicted with so many maladies. But to a skilled physi- cian it at once becomes apparent that there is something wrong. In spite of that, an examination cannot be dispensed with, and you should never object to that policy. In my opinion camp life may do him good and cure him. 16 IN XOCEN T \1 C'll M ACT II Xo. 4 (seeing his mother fainting in Doc- otr's arms, who revives her by a stimulant ) . For mine (Fearing Jiis poor mother zvho understands tJiat her boy is eager to get into action against the enemy.) Dr. (impatiently). Madam, if you would only step aside and let me make a diagnosis of your boy's case I could promptly make up my mind how to dispose of it. Mother (tearfully). Look 1 look' he is d}'ing — dying to serve [zvhen she observes the boy taking a rifle-aim). Doctor, my boy is getting married to the best girl living, and there he is preparing to go to the hospital. If his girl finds out that he is not as healthy as he represented himself to l^e — God knows lie didn't tell her the truth — who knows what will happen. (Jn anguish.) Well, T must reconcile myself to my lot. (Mother shielding her boy as Doctor at- tempts to take his temperature.) Dr. (with decision). Madam, you are virtually a pest around here. I order you to leave the premises at once. The Govern- ment must apply the acid test. It takes no chances, so better go! (Pointing furiously at the door.) \ ( -T 1 n I X N ( )CE N T VI CTT M 1 7 Mother {tearfully throzving Jier arms inniud her boy and kissing him). I am leaving you here in good hands. Good-bye, my son. Curtain. ACT IIT. Scene — As in Act 1 , except room is plain- ly furnished. {Curtain rising, exposes Eugene Carter, Ira Airing, avd George Lee discussing their previous experience at tJie Draft Board's office.) Eugene. Boys, do you know that Dr. Green, of the local board, detected in me the presence of consumption of the lungs in the incipient stage, which utterly disqualified me from military duty. The best I can do is to tell Emily that my exemption is due to an industrial plea which I had filed previous to the physical examination. Emily is a sensible girl, and any intimation of my con- dition will worry her and give me enough trouble to convince her to the contrary. Ira. And me he threw out of the draft because he thinks my brain is too dull, de- fective — a weakling. The Dr. said he was very sorry to see a man of my physique IX IN NOCE NT VJ CTI M ACT 1 ! I turned (hjwn I)\- the Government un accuunl of inferior mentality. J had to give him my family history and even go as far as intro- ducing him to an idiot brother of mine. I can't simply understand what it all means^ — he is "not right." (Alice's photograph attracts hAin.) Oh, my darling, where are you — Ah ! ( Throzc- incf kisses at her.) My excuse will be "de- pendency." George. The incident does sound like a dream, but in reality the shadow of the vice menace is looming blacker upon us daily. A very dangerous black spot in the white soft mantle of youth that dims the globe. IvCt me tell you (but. of course, there's a reason ivhy zve slian't tell it to our life part- ners) the unvarnished truth. My blood was tested and venereal infection found in my system, which will unfit me for duty for months — a monstrous sin ! Yes, you see, boys, won't you stop it ? Dr. Green advised that, this being a communicable disease, laws slioitld be enacted in ever)- state including same in the list of communicable diseases which it is the duty of the physician to re- port and of the health authorities to isolate and quarantine, the same as smallpox and ACT Til INNOCENT VICTIM 19 scarlet fever, etc. The Dr. also remarked that the innocent victim will arouse men to maintain for themselves the same stan- dard of sex morality they require for women. Of course, the Dr. is necessarily a scientific man, and, perhaps, never was himself in love {forbidden). Well, let us he human. But aren't you fellows in soft — right here in the home of your "angels ready made for heaven." I wonder where my little "angel" is flying about looking for her dearest ! I'll try to get her on the wire. (Gaily.) O I remem- l)er her saying she would spend the day in company with the Jones sisters. I'm ex- ])ecting them home every moment. Ha, ha, iia ! I'll tell my girl that the physician at the lr)cal hoard extended me a special invi- tation to join the army, but, owing to a j)revious "engeigement" with her, could not for the present accept his offer, and that I thanked him for the compliment. Eugene (picking up newspaper and noticing headline, zvhicli sliocks him). There it is ! Look at it I What are we going to do ! Ika (coolly). WHiat's all the excitement about ? Eugene (nerz'oiisly) . Here! Read it vourself. 20 I N NOCK N T VI CTT M A CT I T I Ira (hesitating). Eugene, the pleasure is all vours. (Registering a negative awkiuard f/estnre.) This stuff they claim is printed in fifth-class English — I failed some how in the third grade. Now, can that be made plainer to you ! Eugene (reading aloud tJie startling nezvs) : TTealtii Marriage Act In Force To- morrow jMorntng — Health Commissioner White announced that the Health Marriage Act takes effect to-morrow morning, and he expressed his firm belief in the Adminis- trative Department which is an educative force back of the law to create public senti- ment that will demand clean morals among men as a qualification for respectibility and marriage. Such legislation should be enforced in a S])jrit of love of mankind and of elevating, purifying, and refining the race, in which event it is l)()und immensely to imi)rove the individuals of which the race is made up. It may be assumed that every conscien- tious physician will readily co-operate wnth the authorities, since he must be in perfect sympathy with this movement. The Act further ])r()vi(les that "both parties shall 1)e ACT II r INNOCENT VICTIM 21 medically examined l)efore marriage by spe- cialists, under the auspices of the health offi- cials, who shall restrict the marriage of un- fit persons." {Eugene is observed raising his hand to his temple planning his next move, Ira is kneeling before .iliee's portrait zvhispering prayers, i^'hile George is rushing to 'phone, removing receiver, but too excited to speak. ) Eugene (to George). Whom are you calling? George (feeling his chill fingers closing upon his labored breathing). The a — gent of the ex — cur — sion l)-o-a — t. (Calms dozoi.) I'll beg him to intercept the girls and ask them to expect us there in half an hour. From that "bright corner" there will l)e easy sailing. Eugene. No ' You're still too excited. Adjust the receiver. Your attempt may not finally 1)e crowned with success, for acting on the outside at this late hour will put us in h'dd with the police, who might pick us up as suspicious characters. Then the report- ers will get hold of the story and print it, too. I have in mind an idea that will work like magic. (Turning to Ira.) Stop pray- ing, the boat is rocking. Oet to work ! If 22 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT III the torpedo only explodes, as it likely will, we're going to perish (not to Paris) I Ira (rising, briskly — frightened). Yes, my troubles really started when Mother was "rocking my cradle." When the Dr. said my ''brains is dusty" he meant that I am incapable of foreseeing and powerless to prevent the threatening danger of the tor- pedo, which frequently "elopes" and thus proves harmless. I can only feel the actual explosion and "go down." I'd rather not I>c horn to cope wnth the com|)lex pro]>lems and struggles of civilization, than existing and not having a proper place — a safe place in the world — to live in. Why am I a "back number?" Eugene (to George). We'll not elope, that is, abandon the premises "where we are" and go "somewhere." We'll stick right here. Call up the nearest Minister of the (lOspel to perform a triangular ceremony. Oo ahead ! Geokce (low, Jiigher, still higher key). Central, connect me with Madison 1600. llurrv. liurry! Father Shaw, kindly order a taxicab to take you down to 25 Cotn-tland street. The fine for speeding is hereb}' ( fherehy ) guaranteed. '^Ilicrc's a fat jo1) on hand. Good-bye. ACT III INNOCENT VICTIM 23 Eugene {anticipating possible detection). Tlie surprised ladies might ask' this ques- tion, ''What is the occasion for 'midnight ])erformances' and why in haste?" The an- swer is that we were all ordered to leave for France at a little after midnight, and the safest thing is to marry while we are still alive {in love). Ira {believing Eugene's scheme to be a fact). Eugene is right, we haven't much time to spare if we slip away to-night for France. {Bell rings. Enter the Jones sisters and Miss Fanny Marks, George's lady-love, emo- tionally displaying genuine love for their friends. The floodgates of feeling are loos- ened, and the full tide of mutual affection gushes forth uncontrolled, as though there ivcre romance in the air of mystery.) Eugene {getting at his lady's ear and ^' popping the question"). Emily, to all in- tents and purposes there unexpectedly ar- rived the long-looked- for opportunity to en- ter into the ''silken bands of matrimony." A man is never well settled in the saddle of his fortune until he be married. He wants si)ring, purpose and. aim; and, above all, he wants a home as the centre of his efforts. 24 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT III The reason why I am po])ping the question at this time is because I am in the draft and must leave for France in the next few hours. Do you consent, darhng-? Emitv (he?- eyes instantly sparkling zvith delight). Yes, if you are able and willing to defend your country. George {to Fanny). The same is true of me. Fanny, love, do you, too, consent? Fanny (instantly). Yes, under all con- ditions present. Ira (to Aliee). Vm brave enough for any emergency! (Turning to Eugene, point- in gly.) Spare your saucy little words — looks to me as we were wasting the Gov- ernment's valuable time. Why don't you better tell the truth — Father Shaw is due here any moment, and before we know it we shall be married and in an army aeroplane be off for France. And although I had been rejected, I'll still make the men in khaki take me back ! Alice. How do you mean — mean re- jected? Eugene (motioning Ira to s/iut up). He of course means by the Life Insurance Com- pany on account of the war. ACT III INNOCENT VrCTIM 25 Ira {perplexed). Oh, dear no I {His Toiee is droiviied h\ tlie sound of th.e doov- bell.) { Emily opens door and admits Patiier Slnvzc.) Ik A. Good news is awaiting- you in the house, l^^ather. I'atiier. ( )h, I liad experienced tlie ])ains and, in an unexpected way, the pleas- ures of l^eing in a taxi accident. Ira. Yes, you seem to 1)e glad 1)ecause you have our guarantee to pay your fine for speeding, eh? r".\TiiER. ( )h, no! Nothing like that — no arrests were made. I simply landed in the University Hospital, where I had met a well-known physician through whose devo- tion to mankind I had learned the nature of my ])resent task which I am here called upon to perform at this psychological moment when the momentous decision will reach us upon the question of public policy. Ira. Father, I'll not argue with you in the face of what was just said by the wit- ness, but you have unconsciously strayed from the main issue involved in this case. Coming back to the accident, state whether or not you received permanent injuries to 26 INNOCENT VICTIM. ACT III your head, body and limbs as a result of this accident — if you did, to what extent? Father. No. Shock is the only injury I have sustained. Ira. Isn't it a fact that the shock com- plained of was caused by the x-ray? Father. The shock is directly due to your clever cross-examination. Ira. Father, I'm tickled to hear you praise my cross-questioning. But they all say I am exceedingly brilliant, although Dr. Green once expressed himself to the effect that I did not possess a clear intellect, and that such trait runs through my familv. Ha ! ha ! Father. Now I am doubly shocked ! How can I witness with my mental eye such specimen of humanity venturing upon the sacred, yet none the less vital, sea of matri- mony ! You apparently possess only a thimbleful of brains without good measure. Eugene (reflecting). Well, are you ready to begin the ceremony, Father? 'Father (abruptly). No! No! I think that I had reached the opinion that by de- scribing to you my accident you will learn a very profitable lesson in life — it carries a .\t:TIII INNOCliNT VICTIM A/ message of inspiration, like tliat of the artist in the presence of his model. I will begin now, and when I finish the matter will l)e left with you for your determination, right or w^rong — su])ject always to the '"law of the land." My taxical), when whirled at breakneck s])eed through dense traffic and around sliarp turns on slippery streets, suddenly swerved or skidded to the left, whereby it inevitably came in contact wdth a Ford run- about going in the opposite direction rather slowly, not exceeding the thirty-five-mile limit, and with terrific force split the hit- ter's motor into two unequal parts. \\'hile one ])art thereof kept on spinning 'round the globe, incidently "doing its bit" in the in- dustrial world, the other flew like an air- ship. I, like a very modest, unassuming kind of hero aviator, calmly steered its course toward "heavenly abodes." Suddenly, I felt the machine isn't func- tioning perfectly. The next moment I saw the engine isn't running, and then I w^as up in the air for fair — lost consciousness. The Ford aeroplane readjusted itself automati- cally and was finally brought down by the law pf gravitation, which took its cotirse. But by the "benefit of shock" I came to my 28 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT III senses and then immediately resumed my earthly duties and did mind earthly things. Is not this something more than fantasy ? \Miile the imagination brings us with it in paradise of love, the material world is con- stantly engaged in scientific analysis of sin and disharmonies of nature. W^e have thus a little bit of ])leasure at the expense of great sulTering. \\> take the liberty, Jnit have no "bond of security." \Miat are we going to do about it ? (Bell rings. Bmily goes to the dour and admits Dr. Jf^Jiite and liis nurse. ) Ira {goes to nurse). Do you really think this house looks like a hospital — an- other smashup ! Who's that patient ? ( Point- ing at the Doctor.) Was he also shocked and did he see "stars" and fly in a half- Ford runabout, too? Nurse (duty-like). Young man, I am not here advertising Ford's or any other ma- chine. That man is Dr. \Miite, the Health Commissioner, and I am one of his nurses— I.eah Jacol:)S is my name. Ira. Wdl, then, I'll also introduce mx- self as Leah (interrupts him). Never mind vour introduction. T know all of vou. Your ACT III INNOCKXT N'lCTIM 29 local board records arc now on our tiles — \(»nr identity isn't in dispute, either. Ira. Isn't true tliat your ^•ision is de- fective ? Leah. Why? Ira (/;/ undertone). Because Jacob io\ed Racliel and not Leali. Leah. You've got your "dates mixed." i was sent here to cure you — you're my ])a- tients. No marriasre for sometime to come, if at all. Ir.\ { feeling liis pulse). WxW the medi- cine taste sweet or bitter ? Lp:ah. It's a kind of bitter "pill" to take, but a safe cure. Dr. {looking up). The first duly of the Doctor is to demand absolute frankness. It is to your own interest to be frank, for no marriage founded on deceit can be happy. Emily {has not the least suspicion at present). Father, in the name of frank- ness, I demand that you exercise your pro- fessional duty. Do hastily perform the wedding ceremony — I insist on that. We're losing precious time. Dr. Pardon my intervention. The Book of Nature is not agreed with itself on fol- 30 INNOCENT VfCTIM ACT III lowing this course. Since Man lias long abused and corrupted Nature, she now just- ly retaliates by forbidding certain marriage. Purify her laws, and you are free from dan- ger under her protective wing. Alice (the butterfly). Why do the love- ly birds eat out of our hands and fly awa\- to the land of the "free," where there is lib- erty? Emity (in a lozv voice — understanding ) . The l)irds play with and are fed by our children, both being innocent and pure, but when the songsters flutter at our windows and imprudently fly into the cage, and when the children become of age, the so-called liberty turns over another page and tells a different story. After all, liberty is a rela- tive term, depending on the age in which we live and liozv we live. Ira. All this talk is an idle consumption of time. There will be "something doing" when we hear of the boys who have fallen "over there." Nobody could visualize the war in Europe without actually seeing it. Eugene. Well, the idea of going to France is abandoned. We're not that for- tunate. But the time had come to talk mar- riage, and get married. A postponement AC'I' ITT INNOCENT VICTrM 31 might mean — indefinitely — we'll soon be "within the law." (Hoping against hope.) The question in my mind is. What power on earth can stop us? Couldn't love find its way through ])aths where wolves would fear to prey? Father. Strong arc the instincts with wliich God has guarded the sacredness of marriage. But hasty marriage never proveth well. Dr. (eloquently) . There won't be a hasty marriage any more. The law has wisely thrown its safeguards around mar- riage in a way hitherto unknown to civiliza- tion. Every man is a worse man in pro- ])ortion as he is unfit for the marriage state. The Government was left free to reach actions which were in violation of social duties, or subversive of good order. We will proceed to examine the question l^efore us "in the light of general authority and sound reason." A new conception of urr.TiTS and duties has dawned upon men. If it be true, on one hand, that the heart of man naturally delights in liberty, and hates everything to which it is confined, it is also true, on the other, that the heart of man naturallv submits to necessitv, and soon loses J-Z INNOCENT VlCTl-M ACT IV ati inclination, when there appears an abso- ktte impossibiliy of gratifying it. This be- ing true, NECESvSiTY itself demands that the "horrors" tried for centuries by "tainted" humanity on pure, innocent l^lood shall not be repeated or longer experienced — ttik HALT OF DECENKRACV I ( Ira (jro-ivs pale and Alicr JuiinKk liin: a (/lass of ivatcr. ivhicli he can't fake off flic tray ivithoiit excrt'uuj his will-poivcr to the utmost. Fanny falls into Leah's arms, '7cliilc George remains sitiing dejectedly on the piano stool. Emily is visibly moved by the Doctor s appeal, as she reaches Eugene's hand appreciably sober-minded.) Father (with an air of satisfaction ) . The ceremony is indefinitely postponed ! (Ira. shivering, drops glass from h.and.) Curtain. ACT IV. Scene — Placed close to the ,\dam farm- house somewhere "over there" far away from civilization amidst the Devil and his works. (Curtain rises disco-vering Innocence sit- ting or. a bench melodiously singing to Cre- ACT IV INNOCENT VICTIM 33 ation amid bezvilderment of tree trunks and underbrush, opposite the tree of life, and the Devil, with suitcase in hand, passing her rapidly — he returns and is seated himself beside Innocence.) Innocence (getting up quickly). The nerve of you! Who're you, anyway? Devie (charms her). My name is Mr. Devil. But what brought a bewitching lit- tle darling like you in this most fashionable residential section of the world? Innocence (as if uiiconcerned'). To me it's merely a wilderness. I'll swear I'm lost here. Devil (unlocks suitcase and takes out a bottle of wine). Won't you have a little wine to quench your thirst? Innocence. No! DeviIv (gets her hand zvith the result that the stronger will prevails). Have a drink anyhow — you'll feel refreshed. Innocence (accepts, pauses and, regain- ing her balance after reflecting for a brief moment, opens her eyes, conquers the pas- sions, summons her will-power and, being now in full possession of her faculties, re- turns the "gift'' to Devil, in an air of satis- 34 TNNOCKNT VICTIM ACT IV I faction of being quite able to fake care of ; herself, though rather not to be tempted — | az'oid such company). It's no pity that i ^^ice has recently received an almost fatal I blow — a moral victory ! ' Devil (staggers and looks like they fin- ■ ished him up, but rapidly changes his e.r- \ pression). Not knowing what you're talk- j ing about, T can still see that your name is | Innocence. I love you. (He kisses her] hand: she pulls it away sharply.) \ Innocence (feeling her face is growing \ burning hot). I, too, loved you the first moment I saw you — the first glance was suf- ficient. But now — your camouflage kiss and , its complications are not at all amusing.' (A very long silence.) i Devil (placing politely his arm around her). May I take you through the Garden of Eden, beauty? Innocence (determinedly). No, not even a peep will I take within the Golden Gate and around its enchanting grounds, or whatever its mysteries — — | Devil (shrewdly). Ah! is pleasure not yours? Are you that kind — am I not sur prised? Now think it over, but don't think too much. Let's go- — — ACT IV INNCJCExMT VICri\[ 35 Innocencp: {iudigumitly, though nen'- oiisly). Why, Miss Emily Jones finally re- gretted the little bit of paradise she prema- turely saw. For mine, I'll consult reason before it has drowned, buried and lost itself in FASCINATION — deep in love is deep in water. .Vn angel may stoop to see. And bless me for my purity. Devil (curiously). What, if anything, had happened to Miss Tones? Innocence. Why, Emily is a friend of mine. She fell in love with a fine young man — at first sight. Devil (carelessly). Suppose she did, what of it? Innocence (instructively). Well, here's where they all blunder. Let me give you my view of love, in the light of recent dis- coveries and common sense which we now 'know how to exercise and develop. (For huithority see the Health Marriage Act and 'consult the Health Officials — that you can't escape, and you shouldn't.) Devil. Yes, certainly, your view is "based upon public sentiment as I under- 'stand it, and I'm afraid some of the devilish works will be condemned — well, never mind 36 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT IV I'll see that love is precisely what it used to be — no changes and no reforms are de- sirable and things don't suit me as they are. (To himself.) Am Devil enough to con- trol and repeal such legislation and such fancy laws spread so early in Man's career upon the Statute Books — it lies all in my hands. Don't you know, it's been worrying me a good deal — I'm the first one to be af- fected by your Social Reforms I I should make a personal sacrifice and l:)enefit human- ity thereby — I can't see it that way. (To Innocence, cuireatingly.) But love to know what's going on, and don't keep me in sus- pense — I'll faint. Innocence. But why shouldn't you tell the truth— you have a weak heart, for that matter, any disease — it'll be tested at some place at some time as one of the prerequi- sites of marriage. Devil. You're making it worse for me — proceed, won't you ? Innocence. Well, if you like I will go into it this moment — of course, it is to your advantage to know it all — but nothing will | help you — you're lost. Devil. If you ever professed to have a spark of love for me — but you're some teaser. ACT IV INNOCENT VICTIM 37 Innocence. I've got a message to de- liver to the world and I shall get right down to business, to come straight to the point, so listen — (Devil placing hand to ear.) Innocence. Love usually proceeds through two stages, the first being one of mere mutual attraction and interest. It is in this stage that the will and reason are operative, and here alone that any consider- able elevation of standard may be effective. But love once established defies rational consideration — the second and last stage. The beauty of it is that in the first stage it is under the control of many influences, in- cluding influences of reason. Devii,. Is that what you call love? Innocence. These are the ordinary psy- chological facts. Devil. Can you give an illustration ? Innocence. I'll use the Devil as one. Devil. Help yourself- — now keep to the point. (Suddenly, the distant echo of strange voices fall from "someivhere" crying, ''Devil! Devil! The Royal Family is threat- ened!" As he spiritually disappears from sight, the lights go out and the faint roar of a lion rings out of the jungle.) 38 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT IV Innocence {trembling and fearing the beast as its roar grows louder, she runs about panic-stricken, ending zmth prayer). O living God, shut the Hon's mouth, and he will not hurt me ; forasmuch as before Him innocence is found in me ; O God, and also before Thee, I have done no hurt. Devil (enters and grabs Innocence by the ami). Quick, let's run to Paradise! This is a dangerous place for a little girl like you ! Innocence. But God answered my prayer and said there shall be light and there will be light. (The lights are turned on.) Ah! this was a mean little trick of yours, you Devil. Your point was to get me in a mood to blindly follow you in love. (Triumphantly.) But this Devie. Does your new philosophy an- swer every question pertaining to love? As- suming it does, what is, or should be, the rule when one falls in love with a fascinat- ing beautiful young widow? Innocence. Yes. Say, you've hit the nail on the head — Dupe ! you are deceived already. I might add that the imagination liere has been so active that a period of pos- session and indulgence dispels the charm. ACT IV INNOCENT VICTIM 39 Each, then, begins to think that an error has been committed ; and each suspects the other of regretting it. But before this unpleasant discovery passion wraps the judgment, con- ceals the most evident faults, colors every- thing in celestial purple, renders the lovers blind, and veils the true character of each from the other. Devil. Here's where you've got me. I realize that the emotion of love is still very little studied, and it is still wrapped in com- plete darkness. Innocence. Yes, a great deal of ignor- ance still prevails in regard to this impor- tant emotion. Devil. That is what I am exactly get- ting at — IGNORANCE is responsible. Innocence. No wonder — no other phy- siological phenomenon has been approached with such hesitancy as the study of love in man. For illustration — now don't get smart again, Devil, and don't leave me here all alone in the dark — I'll surely get you in trouble for that ! Follow me. Devil, (point- big to the Scenery). Do you see our do- mestic animal charming the little bird 'f Their eyes meet — there's magnetic attrac- tion, the bird is intoxicated, perhaps both 40 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT IV are, but pussy's action is prompted by sin- ister motives — to feast her eye and stomach with her willing prey. Now. were there the slightest distraction the bird would be freed from this sort of intoxication, and the hyp- notizer left to enjoy a "meatless holiday." Thus you first catch your love-bird with a little feed, then inoculate her with a Devil Thought — then love plays its own independ- ent role: sounds easy, doesn't it? But, oh, my. Again, time and place being the essence of preventing love, don't go too quick and too far, then she may not have the astonish- ing good luck to capti\ate this young fel- law, at a ball, it seems ; use auto-suggestion to counteract the efifect of the charms of beauty, beautiful voice, the touch of her soft little hand, of some graceful gestures, etc. Look before you leap and ask no sym- pathy to be shown you — unless the ''game is worth the candle." In this connection it is to be remembered that even within the limits of mental health some persons are noted for the strength of the will, and others for its feebleness. Affirmative essentials of true love are : Man and woman led by sexual attraction, mature consideration and harmonv of char- .\CT 1\' INNOCENT VICTIM 41 acter coupled with a heai^tii certificate, without which marriage is a failure — a bankrupt. Long before the parties allow themselves to fall in love there must be an understanding as to physical fitness, and the required proof adduced. They must first be convinced that they may reasonably hope to form a durable and happy union, then only may they abandon themselves to amor- ous intoxication (deep love), but not before. This idea will in due course of time in- stinctively and unconsciously influence the impulses of men and women, the consequent result being that standards of morality will be elevated and the health of the individual respected, nay, even loved. Devii. (rubbing his hands as if some- thing zvorries him). Why, Innocence, would you really believe that I'm a bit ser- ious in this regard and will soon investigate tlie whole affair and — (Dez'il mysteriously disappears.) (A strange man flezv breathlessly in like a veritable zvhirlwind, his eyes sparkling zvitJi ''illusions of all the senses/' crying excited- ly as he climbs the trees and searches for a place of concealment.) Innocence (runs up to the stranger). Weren't you chased after by that big lion ! -12 I N N UCl' N T \'l C'Jl M ACT I\^ I'm just the riglit one to sympathize with you — was in the same predicament and know what it is. (Man and girl rush in.) Man {to Innocence). May I search the house — the entire premises? Innocence. You are mistaken — -I'm not the proprietor. Man. Well, I have a right to go the limit. ( ./ snccessful search is instituted and the stranger overpoivered, ivhen Devil sudden- ly appears, as usual.) Devie {to Man). How do you do, Dr. Johnson — what's that ! who're these people ? Dr. They are inmates of my Institution —parent and child. His name is Ira Alv- ing, his daughter's name is Blanche — both are mental defectives. Devil. Since I have heard so much about a Health Certificate and like philo- sophy, I'd appreciate the history of this ap- parently interesting case, at least, and espe- cially when there is a tragedy enacted on my own soil — where I have some say. Dr. The father evaded the law by leav- ing the jurisdiction, the Statute having no ACT TV INNOCENT VICTIM 43 extraterritorial force. It means that no law is l^inding, ex proprio vigore, beyond the limits of the sovereignty from which it is derived. In cases of this kind, with some rare exceptions, the courts of one state will refuse to extend the principle of comity to another, and such comity is not, and hardly can be, generally recognized. The only way out of it is to have a uniform law passed regulating marriage, as proposed herein. Devil. What of it if they did elope and were married elsewhere? Dr. (sharply). Herein lies the error Under our law, which every person is pre- sumed to know, which is based upon reason and humanity, such marriage is forbidden, unless certain provisions of the Act which deal with this class of cases are complied with before marriage is undertaken. Devil. Well, since the question is so striking, practically affecting both alike the classes and the masses, I'd like to find out the result of this forbidden marriage and how there was issue born as a result of said wedlock. Dr. (zvith deep feeling). Because a sim- ilar law is not enacted in the sister states, it frreatlv hinders in this State the enforcement 44 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT IV of the reformatory civil legislation and the rational administration measures. In the in- stant casej the psychiatrist, who is the com- petent expert in these matters, to insure social safety, directed that this man be asked to renounce propagation by the method of sterilization, which will prevent him from being the founder of a family tending to resemble himself. But he re- fused to submit voluntarily to this mild operation, then, as a means of prevention, he ordered the segregation of the defective in my asylum, from which he temporarily escaped. This girl was born before wo could prevent it. Devil. fUit what does the pul)lic gen- erally know about feeble-minded humanity? Dk. \Xq\\. a few striking facts concern- ing their life on this planet will not be out of 1)lace here. The l^alance can be imagined — I advise personal study and observation to clear up the situation in one's mind. Devil. But do not please hesitate to state the facts as they really exist. Sup- l)ressing evidence, or even coloring it, will not enlighten us. Dr. (does hesitarr aw/iilc). Well, I will tell vou this much, and no more. If vou ACT IV INNOCENT VICTIIM 45 will visit my institution you can learn more and more how these feeble-minded creatures behave — how they retard civilization. What I want the public to know, at least, is this : The Binet tests were applied to 300 girls who have just begun prostitution. One hun- dred and fifty-four were feeble-minded and eleven were insane. One hundred and thirty-five were put in the "doubtful class," as they proved to be of distinctly inferior intelligence, only a few of them ever having read a newspaper or a book, or had any real knowledge of current events, or could con- verse intelligently upon any but the most trivial subjects. Precocious sex interests and practices are well-known symptoms of feeble-mindedness. Many of the feeble creatures show a tendency to disease, pau- l)erism, criminality, or else to early death. I can recall a case of a feeble-minded man, 25 years of age, starting 45 fires with- in three months. The loss was estimated at a quarter of a million dollars. I know of hundreds of cases involving criminality, but to mention an additional celebrated case will sufiice. A feeble-minded boy set fire to his grandfather's house, later he burned a house belonging to the father of the dis- trict attorney. He served terms in prison. 4C) INNOCENT VICTIM ACT IV and later became religious and paroled on condition that he go to another State. He came to New York and set fire to a barn. He is now in Sing Sing. Had he been cared for in an institution at the proper time, all this damage would not have been done, or even attempted. Heredity is the chief cause of causes of mental alienation, and a normal child is never born of two feeble-minded parents. It is to be borne in mind always that alco- holism and syphilis are contributing their full share to the upkeep of this evil. The means that have been suggested for combat- ing bad heredity are legal restriction of marriage, surgical sterilization, and segre- gation. (Exit, Dci'U and Dr. remaining.^ Devii,. Doctor, your story is hardly he- lievable. Do you mean to say that Ira's (laughter is not quite as good as Innocence — I can handle her as I please ? Dr. Precisely. She i.i just a fit candi- date for vou, if I onh- let her get on the "ticket." ^ Devii.. But I'd like to demonstrate it. Dr. What ! You doubt my word — that minds differ — that heredity plays such an important part in life ! ACT JV INNOCENT VICTIM 47 Devil. But I'll promise you that I shall not deliberately hurt her. I'll just try her (Hit as I did Innocence, but didn't succeed. Ou. Well, I will do as you say — just to convince you beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am absolutely correct. Remember, you will account to me for any damai^e I Don't forget she ain't Job, either. No un- fair advantage. (B-vif Doctor, enter girl.) (Here the Devil takes his own part as is /peculiar to his "oivn" profession of mislead- iiui girls of this description, the girl re- sponding and demonstrating her inclination to ''go zvrong." He finally persuades her to follozv him to Paradise. The reader's imag- ination zvill be materialized zvhen seeing the Devil in action and the girl proving by her conduct the damage done to society by giv- ing such type of girls "full liberty.'') (Exit Devil and girl, enter Doctor.) Dr. (inspecting the premises). Perhaps I shouldn't have permitted the Devil to have his own way. I wonder whether he will keep his promise. Many girls fall into the hands of the "devil" daily. But I'm impa- tient. "There's a reason" why •h8 innocent victim act IV {Enter Devil and Girl.) Devil. Doctor, as a result of my experi- ence and observation, you'll have this from the lips of old-time Devil, whom they have for many centuries loathed and despised. She played the game v^ith me and let me beat her oh, so easily ! till I felt myself^ again a man — a man of "No Man's Land — '"^1 Tn these circumstances, I feel obliged to ad- mit that every word you uttered here is the exact truth. Mustn't I do that? I am not meaning to throw any bouquets at you. But, looking to the root of the matter, I really think the Devil is in the wrong place — his right place is in the homes of those who believe they are, or will be, in "heaven." Morbid heredity and the vices of our blood are the "devils" which dwell, to their shame, in our homes, and are the worst kind. That's it. Morbid heredity and vice. They kill quicker than the "enemy." Yes, don't they? Well, I'll adopt a new domicile- — will quit this Garden of Eden business. I will travel in the private homes and see "home-devils" doing their destructive work. The moral of all this is that that little affair of Blanche's is costing me my job. Yet, in extenuation of what is evil, I must admit this one thing: The impulsive .\C r \' I.NNOCHN r \ICTJM K) cause of these miseries in Man, this priva- tion of destruction of God's image, the cause of death and disease, of all temporal and eternal punishments, was the sin of our first parent Adam, in eating of the forbid- den fruit, by the Devil's instigation and allurement. ( Doctor motioning girl to leave. She runs up to him as he stretches his arms. ) Curtain. ACT V. Scene — Representing Fanny's bedroom and Emily's temporary office, separated by partitions. {We lift the curtain to look at poor inno- cent Fanny as she lies in bed as a patient, and at Emily, now a nurse, taking her tem- perature.) Emily. Fanny, dear, I see your temper- ature is steadily climbing down to normal. I hope in the next day or so I shall be able to resume my regular duties at the Board of Health, in the Marriage Department. We have already accomplished wonders since the law dealing with the marriage of unfit persons has been in force, which came just dU innocent victim act V a little too late to save my dearest I'riend— yourself- — innocent victim of the old world. (Kissing her.) When Father Shaw post- poned our marriage, you and George swiftly on the wings of love were carried, at mid night, through the startled skies, right down to the door of some other priest, who, through the discord of the late hour and the answering tread of hurrying feet, — there was tumult in the air and you saw hope in chaos, — the priest forgot the Law was to assert itself against you but in a few min- utes and bar the way to marriage, and catch you as you pass. He then and there tied the marriage knot — the fateful hour ! (Bell rings. Bmily adnuts an attractive young lady.) Lady. Fd like to know results in case No. 605. Emii^y (connecting with Marriage De- partment). Let me have 605. (She writes out report and hands it to applicant.) Lady (reading report). "Lady is O. K., but man has Tuberculosis, marriage post- poned for one year — prognosis is bad." (She weeps.) What do you mean— my in- vitations are out. Emii.y. Rut you're some foolish girl. In olden times vou'd hear them trv to do ACT V INNOCENT VICTIM 51 such stunts over and over again. They didn't know they were playing with fire. Besides, it all does not rest entirely with you. L \nV. As much as T love him I'd still take a chance on my life! H^^L^^ Yes, I really think you mean. it. You're in that frame of mind. But the ol:)servance of a command carries its reward and the transgression of a prohibition its punishment — the law is supreme. And cause and efifect always go together and a transgression of natural law is followed by its appropriate reaction. L ADV. But I am madly in love with him — can't forget him. (Meditatively.) What is the nature of the disease, anyhow? Ts it so serious? EMTL^^ AA'ell. it only destroys and con- sumes lung tissue, if it occurs in the lungs. The bacilli themselves secrete poisons, which are depressing to the heart, which cause fever and a general weakening of the heart ; the nutrition and strength are exhausted in forming useless structures. Ladv. How does it affect other people, and what if we marrv now? 52 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT V Emily. Now you talk like a very sen- sible girl and I will therefore answer your questions to convince you how serious the matter is — you'll feel that I need your sym- pathy and co-operation as much as you need mine. Listen to me, darling, I will enlight- en you on the subject. Marriage exercises a sinister influence on tuberculosis ; for the female especially, it should be definitely dis- couraged : "Maid, no marriage ; wife, no children ; mother, no nursing." Matrimon- ial contagion is v/ell attested and extremely common. Hereditary predisposition to tu- berculosis f susceptibility to receive it and permit it to germinate) is extremely f re- fluent — the children suffer. Again, the virus of the dread disease is contained in the sputum, which when dry is widely dis- seminated in the form of dust, and consti- tutes the great medium for the transmission of the disease. Special danger is believed to exist when the contact is very intimate, as ]:)etween man and wife. It is quite true that normal blood possesses a certain amount of substances which are inimical to the life of our bacterial foes. But suppose a person gets run down ; every one knows lie is then liable to "catch anything." Tn- tem])erance of every kind lowers the bodily ACT V INNOCENT VICTIM 53 resistance and makes a ready opening- for the disease to get a foothold. Lady. You might be right as far as you went. But can you further explain how the law is fighting my battle when I'm not even facing the enemy- -nothing that I can see that will hurt me, is it the "Silent Menace?" Emily. Yes, you've practically answer- ed yourself. Let us not forget that this is not the thunder of the cannon — it's a silent, treacherous war. We cannot remain pas- sive because the enemy invades our land subtly and silently, but we must mobilize our resources and our energies so that we may attack this formidable adversary that is invisible to the naked eye save under the microscope slide — the infinitely tiny mon- ster, the tubercular germ. Lady. Very well, then. It's all true. Still you wouldn't apply it to yourself — you'd say let nature take its course, or what has science to do with love, isn't it true? Emily. Darling, you will feel much bet- ter wdien you hear that I was once in your "shoes." I felt then as you feel now — maybe a little worse. Lady. And how did you behave your- self — "act foolish" and gave in, or 54 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT V Emilv. I parted with him forever — ap- plied the law of "conquering love" which afifords a permanent cure. Lady. Love-cure I Oh-h-h, love-cure ! Emily. If it wasn't true — well, I'd never be where I am — talking with you or anybody else — would he where all the great people are, in Lady. What did really happen to you, l)y the way? Emily. Just this : One night the priest was at my home when I was nearly married to my ''first-love." But I was made aware of the law restricting such marriage and of my lover's condition — the same case is now confronting you — when I had suddenly re- membered and finally acted against the vis- sions of the "setting sun" and rather chose to act in harmony with my prophecy "not to enter false paths," when I accordingly re- frained from saying "yes" when law and prudence demanded "no !" I could have practically evaded the law as did my unfor- tunate sister — Alice — her belief being in "happy endings." A serious proposition she never would take seriously. She is now struggling to earn her own living, while her husband, Ira, and Blanclie, her onlv child. AC !• V 1 .\ N(k:j:nt \j cji m 55 are confined in a feeble-minded institution — she's almost losing her mind, too. It makes me cry when I think of it all. (IViping her eyes. ) Lady. When the priest refused to marry you, was it good on your nerves? Emii,v. But you mustn't let your nerves \valk away with you. I too had to struggle with myself for a while, then took up the study of the psychology of "Conquering Love." After I had mastered my subject, I was in a position to appreciate the good noble work of the social workers. You could do the same — follow my example. Lady. Is there really such a thing as get- ting rid of the emotion of love? If that's possible, I'd like to get from you a few pointers. Emily. Well, I shall give you now a few ideas in regard to the new art, and the re- maining points you'll get at the principal office — hope to get back there next week. Love isn't permanent — time and separation and other interests must wear it off — other- wise it would certainly kill many, and, as a matter of fact, I haven't had a dead one since I have been in this business. The imagination would not be quite as vivid in 56 INNOCENT VICTIAr ACT V loving if you could not see him. Slowly, very slowly, you'll forget him — positively. Again, auto-suggestion will help to cure it. The idea of yawning makes one yawn ; the idea of loving makes one love still more ; the idea of dismissing the beloved person from one's life makes the latter feel— perhaps like hating. Fasting is recommended by a high authority — love grows cool without bread and wine. Above all, remember that there is such a thing as love at second sight — loving a second or a third man equally as good, especially when the first lover is for- gotten, as there are many "attractions." Lady. Thanks. I'll see you again next week — will carefully study my first lesson in the meantime. (J-.vit.) {Nurse hastens to attend to patient, when door-hell rings. She goes hack and admits the Minister's daughter.) Daughter. Have we ]:)oth passed the physical test — the medical examination? Think I've lost my number {searcJiing for it). Emily. Your case. Daughter, I certain- ly have at my fingers' ends. Can recall it offhand. .\CT V INNOCENT VICTIM 57 Daughter. Will I be granted a license to marry Frank? Emily. Your Frank's case is not onh' dark, but painted with thick darkness it- self — it's awful ! Daughter. It must be terrible — you can never get me to believe that this man (a handsome youth of tzveiity-five, very correct 111 manner) is not of sound body and mind. But aren't you jesting? Emily. You will soon find out that these are no jesting matters. Frank, this one, that one, or another one, will no longer be permitted to ruin a pure innocent Minister's daughter, or any man's daughter. Mar- riage to-day is not a blind, uninspected, sec- ondhand article of merchandise — a book which the purchaser knows not the contents of until it is bought and found to be printed in a foreign language — ridiculous ? To-day the "survival of the fittest" means that "natural selection'" alone will not serve as the best means of weeding out the feeble and the weak in mind and body. It was our solemn duty to adopt certain measures that will assist Nature, in which book the laws of life and of government are to be read. ■'Nature is universal hygiene." I'm sorry Frank isn't "fit." 58 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT V Daughter. But is it right for me to go into detail — to understand the case from every angle? Emily. Yes. The social disease must be spoken in the open and not with bated breath, and must be spoken to the woman no less than to the man. These dreadful diseases embrace among their victims a vast number of virtuous wives and innocent chil- dren. The number of virtuous wives suf- fering from venereal diseases is much larger than the entire number of prostitutes in our country. The wife and unborn child are surely innocent in every sense of the word. The innocent child at birth undergoes a bap- tism of germs which attack the conjuncitva of the eyes and set up a severe purulent in- flammation, which is one of the chief causes of total blindness in children. Daughter, are you prepared to accept all these risks light-heartedly, in the dark, in a heedless dream from which you somehow hope there will be no awful awakening? Daughter. What disease are you speci- fically referring to? EmiIvV. I am distinctly referring to all the diseases ^'hich are more or less respon- sible for many innocent znctims, hut I am certainly placing special emphasis on the so- .\C"'J^ \' INNOCENT VICTIAI 59 called PLEASURE or joke disease — gon- orrhea. Daughter (dcetrmined to knozv it all). Seeing is conquering. Emity {anxiously). Then follow me. [She foUoivs her to Fanny's room.) Emh.^' (to Fanny). Tell all your daugh- ters the nature of your operation. Only full knowledge can adequately assist them. Fanny {sits up, bursts into tears, rub- hiiKj her eyes and plaeing hand upon her own heart, ivJiich heats and grieves for other hearts — hozv far will the cancer spread?). Come, come, my dear, we must talk seriously. Civiijzation itself is caught dreaming the long, long dream of dreams : tears, and tortures, and the touch of joy — but this time to leave a weight upon our waking thoughts. (Trying to restrain her sobs.) Daughter (assuming responsibility). Vm I representing, and will I have to report hack to civilization? If so, I must feel that the dark picture is not overdrawn — that relief must come quick. Fann^' (extending her hand to Daugh- ter, hopefully). My dear child, it is evi- dent that the object of your visit here is to 60 INNOCENT VrCTI^I ACT V test the INNOCENT VICTIM — the play you read, re-read and normally digested. I sin- cerely hope that your present investigation will soon open a new era of married happi- ness, of attaining the highest culture and re- finement which civilization can yield — an era of legislation in the elevation of the race, aided by religion, by science, and by public opinion. {Indicating a sudden vio- lent pain i)! the ahdomiiiaJ region. ) Why. Daughter, wasn't the mist of ignorance in reality removed in time to have sa\ed me from innocently contracting such a dread- ful disease — think from whom ! my own husband ? Yes ! But he alone is not to be condemned. He, like the rest of them, also was traveling in the dark after his deceptive joys. To-day a decent husband should not even attempt to commit suicide — well, let him live better to repent his folly and ignor- ance from his very soul. (Taking a drink of zvater.) Daughter (not yet fully realising the seriousness of the operation). Has the operating knife left an indelible impression on you? Fanny (zvith sighs). It has made an in- cision, and even more than that. The in- flammation necessitated a surgical operation ACT V INNOCENT VICTIM 61 which mutilated my reproductive organs, despoiling me of my womanly qualities, de- priving me of the possibilities of mother- hood—woman's most sacred coronation — and almost lost my life too in the bargain. {Protesting.) Why do thousands of in- nocent wives share my fate! Why don't they know that to-day the disease is re- garded by the medical profession as one of the most serious and most to be dreaded of any of the diseases to which human flesh is heir ! Doesn't in fact the poison remain in the system for years to do its deadly work both to the sorrowing husband himself and to his innocent bride whom he ignorantly, or even deliberately, infects ! Why should such men be permitted, with impunity, to make a prey of pure women! Is there any denial of these criminal charges? Answer me! {A pause.) Why, then, should not her whole nature revolt against the wed- lock with a man whose body is a sink of corruption ! Won't it be she who will have to suffer most ! Is it not upon the woman that the burden of shame and suffering, of disease and death, is chiefly laid ! We, therefore, ask for protection ! Sleeping Lion, can't you h^ aroused ! ( I'akcs a rest and breathes an atmosphere of contentment C)2 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT V — believing that her penetrating words Jiave found lodgment in the human heart.) Daughter {presently falling under the power of this conviction ) . Lady, you have taught me the hardest of all lessons in the world, i. e., thinking. I do now realize the danger to which I, as well as others, would have subjected myself had I failed thus to investigate. Now 1 see things. I'm satis- fied we are all clamoring your piteous prayer incessantly : to regenerate society. My dear woman, I certainly wish you a speedy recovery. Fanny (becomes free from all fear of the blind, elemental forces — a free spirit. The bonds of individuality being momentar- ily broken, she feels herself in harmony, in union, in deep sympathy with imhappiness and misfortune) . Recovery f It is a relic of the past. Happiness? Darkness is upon the face of the deep. Humanity? There's a body without a form, and void. There will be light, when? {As the girl is about to step out of the room, enter George, Fanny's husband, hand- ing a bottle of medicine to Emily, zvho mi.ves the drugs. As lie remarks, pointingly, "Who is the child standing there?" and as the name ''child" reaches the patient's ear ACT V INNOCENT VICTIM 63 (///(' tJwiight that thousands of "Rachels are still weeping for their children" ). zvhat f(}llo7i's, indeed, is only the natural cause- (juence of the 'world's e:'i! and the tragic side of life.) Fanny (just seen calm and reasonable, becomes excited little by little, her eyes shin- ing brightly, her countenance assuming an expression impossible to describe, and very soon her words, her ideas, her gestures — in short, her whole appearance and all her ac- tions — become nearly approaching those of a maniac in a violent paroxysm). Give ear, ye midnight prayers for the unfortunate wives, and ye petitions at their graves, and T will speak : and let the world hear the words of my mouth. With unimpaired vividness of that night, which was covered with thick darkness, I see visions of a great beast with two faces, diverse one from another — one laughs, the other cries. The thing which I did not fear came upon me, that which I was not afraid of has overtaken me. T was at ease, T was also quiet, and had rest. But trouble came, r allowed myself to drift with the tide, and entrusted myself to the fury of the waters. I had to suffer from cold, hunger and ex- posure. Oh, Mother, is not undimming 64 INNOCENT VICTIM ACT V truth better than illusion ? Are angels sing- ing? Oh! fool that I was. There's a cer- tain buzz of a stolen marriage. I have gone in — never to return. I was going after him straightway as an ox goes to his slaughter and knows not that it is for his life. Where is the conscientious physician, the judge, the lawyer, the clergyman, the edu- cator, or other person who must come to the eleventh-hour rescue — to protect the un- offending wives and innocent children from results which have wrecked many thousands of lives and multitudes of homes ! Where are they? George (zmth perplexity, anguisli, and re- morse). I am the home-devil! I offer on the spot the general plea of ''guilty." (The girl is seen standing in her place zmth tears streaming dozvn her face as though paralysed, zvhile Bmily is observed forcing open Fanny's mouth with an instru- ment, to administer the drug to the exhaust- ed form of an innocent victim.) -FINIS.— LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 199 384 2