Class. Book '-Fs-jlTg Copyright^" ^1 CORfRIGHT DEPOSnV «THE EYE OETHE GOVERITMEITT" A DRAMA. OF THE SECRET SERVICE _— — ^ 111 EOUR ACTS BY MIROir LEEPIIIGWELL COPYRIGHTED 1911._ BY ALEX BYERS IT T E Under the new co^jrlght law, the rights of production of a play are not secured hy the purchase of "a manuscript of it, and copying of a copyrighted play, and sale of copies of it are offences punishahle hy fine and if done wilfully, "by imprisonment, Eor Manuscripts of this Play and Rights to produce it^ apply to THE CHICAGO KAITUSCRIPT CO. , 431 IJ, CLARK ST., CHICAGO, ILL. ^^\. f^l^A T V 0\ \N CCi,D 215246 1-S ■ THE EYE OP THE GOVERIOffiNT A Comedy drama in four acts. Characters. Jack Rodney U.S. Secret Service. Nicholas Bunyan The Druggist, who has mixed in other things. Richard Langdon A candidate for the Dovm and Out Cluh. R.U. Dunn -'''/ho keeps the ho. el. Harry Vane--- The Banker's Clerk. Marion Langdon The Eread v/inner. Blanche Doe The Banker's daughter. Venus Dunn Brown • An unvrilling -'ridov;. Act 1st:- Office of Hotel Dunn, Act 2nd:- Garden and grounds of the Die Mansion. Act 3rd:- Interior of the hank. Act 4th:- Nicholas Bunyan' s laboratory. 2-B Act 1st . Office of the Hotel Dunn, Ex terio r Backing, A plainly decorated interior - typical of office of a small •■ town hotel. 1. Wide door R. of C. supposed to open on porch exterior Toackirg 2. Large "bay window L. of C. Exterior "backing. . 3.' "Door L.U.E. at head of steps with platform leading' off L. Sign on this - Ladies' Parlor. 4. Door R.U .E. marked Bar and Billards, 5. Steps leading up to door. 3 L.U.E, 6. "L" shaped counter L. 8. Eire place do^.m R, 8. Safa 9. Key rack. Chairs in vrindovr , chairs in front of fire-place j on coxinter there is hotel register, and cigar case, pens, ink and paper. 10. Writing tahle v/ith chairs, up Tsack hetv;een •windo'? and door. Election notices on -walls. Theatrical Lithos, Marked - The Great Hick Bustecd" Co. A liheral a.mount of cuspidors. 11. Tahle and chairs down R.C. 3-B (At rise Venus Dunn Brorni is discovered behind counter on L. She is seated on high stool, and has a music "book o-oen before her) Venus (Singing) (Runs the scale, ascending and descending) Do - re- mi - fa - sol - la - si - Do - Do - si - la - sol - fa - mi - ■ re Do. (Repeats this) (Richard Langdon enters door R. at back he is poorly, but neatly dressed, his face is pale and unshaven, his eyes are red - he is nervous in manner, but not to an exaggeraibed extent. As Venus finishes scale second t- time) . Langdon (Coughs to attract her attention) Aheml (Venus looks uto) Good afternoon Mrs . Browa.' Venus Good afternoon I^. Langdon, is your daughter with you? Langdon 18hy no - Venus This is her day - I hope she -.von't forget my lesson, I t>ut off an important engagement for her sake, I was going teethe matinee to see the "^To money to spend" couipany - Claude Exlair the leading man - is going to give a pink tea after the show and the matinee girls has been invited to meet him and his mother who plays the "Onjaynues" Claude is just lovely out I think his mother is a cat. It will be a big disappoint- ment if your daughter don't come and give me my lesson., Langdon Marion is very prompt about everything Mrs. Brown, she'll be here on time. Is - is - your brother an3n;vhere about the house ? Venus ^Vhoi "R.U. "? ITo - R,U, "has went"to the bank, (Venus looks at Music book again sings) Do - Re ~ ¥1 - Pa - Pa - Fa-- Langdon (Gives a little shudder and shambles off door R. marked "Bar" exit, Venus continues her practice, ending on high note which she holds R.U. Dunn enters regards Venus with horrow) Dunn Take care Venus or you'll bust your mi^^l (Dunn is sleek and prosperous looking) Venus (Stops) Those as has no music in their souls shouldn't make nasty remairks about them - as has - I want to be a "song bird" Dunn But a bird v/ho can't sing and xviii sing should have it ! s neck wrung. Venus I gue-ss - I'm as good as the otherswho are going to appear at the entertainment. o o i^ Dunn I'm glad you're no worse - that rehearsal you yanked me to - the other night reminded me of a 2guinea Hen Convention". Say did I see old Souse Langdon come in here - Venus Yes - he just vient into the bar. Voice (Outside R. in bar) I can't do it - i tell you -• You'll have to see the boss /' Langdon , ^ \ / r, (Nervously) Oh - all rights All right! (Re-enter R„ ) (Sees ■Dunn) Oh - Mr. Dunn - Dunn (Curtly) Hello! Langdon I - I wanted to - (Hesitates) Dunn (Turns) ''Iha.t is it? V/hat dc you want? Langdon . ,^ .,„ Er—er-- -no thing - nothing - It's a fine day - isn't it? Dunn? Dunn Yes - fine - for walking - why donU you take a long walk - it will do you good. (Walks around hehind counter, gets cigar out of case, lights it) Venus (Ohserves action, commences to cough) Aheml R,U If you starton that "odorous" smoking here, I'll ha;Te i.^ to get out. ?ohIcco and my vocal chords ain't no affinities, (Starts up steps) Dunn (Looks at register) Venus! '.Ye 're full - ain't we? Venus If you are speaking of the hotel - yes - there's nothin^ left hut the parlor. (Exit L.) Dunn Humphl That might on a pinch - hold six - when a "boom ±± hits a town - it keeps hotel men guessingi (Comes out from behind counter) "What's the matter vrith you to-day Langdon? Lord hut you look bad! Langdon (Trembling) I'm a little bit nervous - thatJs all. Dunn I reckon you think you need a drink. Langdon Yes - I know - I need one - bAt your barkeeper just shut me off. Said my "Tab" was "Canned" as he put it. Dunn What - you ain't got no money - and you want a drink? Don't you know that "booze" is deadly poison to them as is broke. How would I feel if my barkeeper gave you a drink of my best whiskey and you went and died on my front stoop - I'm only speaking for your good - Langdon - Take a bruce to yourself. Earn some money - and then you can come here and spend your "it" like a gentleman - and drink all you can hold. Langdon Yes - I know - but- Dunn The v;ay - youire going - you ain't doing yourself no credit - and you certainly ain't doing me no good. Koodhin around - and getting the reputation of bein' a "Bar-fly". Eor the sake of that lovely daughter of yours - you oughtn't to do that. Langdon (With some dignity) Mr. Dunn - I wish you wouldn't bring her name into this discussion, Dunn I'm only doing it for your good - Langdon - if you only had a picture of yourself when you get a "snoot ful" you'd go and jump in the river and the "airs" you put on. '•"'■hy, the last time I saw you with real money - you had a "Raraese's fizz", a "Sazerae cock-tail", a "paresis high-ball" an "Absinthe drip" some "Old man!s tonic - and I'll be derned if you didn-t come out then to our cooler there and "knock" our water - now tliat ain't right. 5~B Langdon I don't remember. Dunn Of course you don't rememloer - a man who gets loaded as quickly as you do - can't remeaber, (Pause) Wellj I suppose I'll hare to tell the "barkeeper to let you have just one. I don(t like to see you - so "Shaky" (Goes to door R.L, calls) Jim - Oh Jimi Give Langdon a drink. The "black "bottle with a tarantula pasted on it -• yes - Go on Langdon the next time you cone around - "bring some money with you - I'm telling you this for your good. Good day? Gooddayl (Pushes Langdon off R. ) Ve nus (Sings outside, strikes ""bum" note) Dunn Holy Mackerel] I wish "Venus --vould take something for that. If she don't let up on her music soon, she'll scare good money away from my hotel, (Bunyan enters at "back) (Bunyan presents a rather clerical appearance and manner) Bunyan Good afternoon, Kr. Dunn; Dunn Hello Bunyan, ho*/ are you? Bunyan Quite well, I thank you - I have gathered quite a "batch of names for your petition your nomination ismpractically assured. Dunn ¥ell - that's fOod news all around - ain't it. The TTominatior means the elction. "'e'll hold control of the t^vm for a couple of years any,7ay„ Bunyan Indeed I hope you "rill "be elected Mr. Dunn - you know "noT is the time when all good men and true - etc" Dunn Why of course, if there's anything in sight - we want it for J^urselves ' the old inha"bitants of Boo"bville - and not for them crooks and sharks that the "boom has "brought here, ¥e should be the ones to profit - and not theia other fellers. Say - (Looking over petition) I don't see Banker Doe's name here. Bunyan -So. Dunn Saj - you are pretty close to hin - couldn^t you get hin.to sign? Bunyan Tc tell you the truth - I could not. Dunn ""rtTiat was his o"bkection? Bunyan He thought you were not qualified for the office. Dunn Oh - he didn't -•■ well - I guess - I'm as well qualified as he wouliS "be. Let me tell you - it takes a good man to run a hotel - just as goQ§si as it does to run a "bank, Bnyan I appreciate that fact - Kr. DunnJ But - }Ir, Doe Dunn "f/ell -- I'm tellin' yoii facts! Blast his eyes! I'd like tc know where he sets off,. I'm sorry - I ain't got no account in his hanli, I'd draw it out at once just to show him what I think of him,, 6-B Bunyaa Oh well - Kt. Dunn - you don't need his vote. Dunn I ain't thinking of his vote - but his "inflooence" . How's trade with you? Bunyan Promising - Mr. Dunn - pcomisingi! Dunn Your patent medicines selling? Bunyan Pairly r/ell - " Dunn My sister "Venus - takes all your preparations - they don't hurt her a hit . Bunyan I'm glad to hear it. Dimn Oh yes - that's a great cut of "yours" on your "liver accelerator" where you are standing like this - (Assumes Dr. Munyon' attitude) saying "Take courage -tofected! There is yet hope. " Bunyan (Coughs) Ahem? That v/ord is "afflicted", not "infected" Dunn ^PIThat's the "diff"? Bunyan^ I like you - I like you because you are the only druggist in Boohville - who don't sell "hooze" on the s4.y. The others are all in competition with my hotel - and it ain't fair. If it wasn't for them - I8d have a monapaly of the liquor business. Bunyan I don't keep liquor even for medicinal purpose. Dunn I suppose one reason is on account of old Langdon who works for you. Hefd mix up some great medicine - wouldn't he - if he got fofir or five "Slugs" in him - by the way - he*s here. Bunyan Here I Dunn (Points R. ) In there. Bunyan (irritated) Drinking again? (Starts R„ ) Dunn (Catches hiia arm) Don't blame me Bunyan - I refused him - but he got down on his knees and begged me ivith tears in his spa eyes for a drink, I am very tender hearted- but he had no money - and I still refused - He finally threatei:ned to throw himself in the river - and S shock that vrtiuld be to his daughter and you - ts have a damp unpleasant corpse iiDckxxxiisuigkisx brought home so - I yielded - The drink was fifteen cents - will you settle for it. Bunyan Here (Hands him a quarter) Dunn Thanks! ^e will let the change ggis^HKxsaaEgaix go for a seegar. Bimyan I don ' t smoke . Dunn I do though - (Goes to cigar case, takes out cigar, holds it up in air) My regards! (Puts it in vest pocketj Bunyan exits R, into bar) (Dunn re moves cigar from pocket, puts it back in case, ) Marion 7-B Bunyan A cigar "unlourned" is ten cents earned. {l!arion enter s^-Tj.U.E. ) Ah, Miss firarion! Mr. Dunn! Dunn How do you think you feel - as well as you look - I suppose you want to see my sister - Marion Yes - This is the time for Mrs, Brown's music lesson. Dunn Music' Say look here - Miss j/rarion - I know you're not a grafter - tout for the love of Kike - why do you encourage Venus to make those noises that she cSiaims is singing? Marion I am trying ±n my humble way to give Frs. Brown piano lessons Mr, Dunia - vocal culture is far beyond my ability, (Venus enter, stands on steps, listens) Dunn But one leads to the other - she is wasting time and money - money that she might invest in my business - it would help me "some considerable" - She'll never sing if she tries from now until she's a hundred - she's getting on to fifty nov;. That's no age to start in trying tr be a "Mary Garding" . Go on, Miss MarionJ Be a good sporti Tell her^ she | s got no more voice tham a cr®w" - put her wise - put the old gal wise Get her "hep" to herself, Venus (In rage on steps) Mind your business - R.U.DunnI Kind your business - and stop sticking your stingy nose into mine. My times my own - and my money too - Then as: don't likes my singin' know what they can do - Come up in here - Marioni and we'll practice - and if that hypociitical hyena tries to interfere - I'll brain him with a piano stool, Dunn (Gomes from behind counter) Oh very well - very welli Go as far as you like - I'll stand out o£ the porch - and tell people who pass by - that there Is nobody bein' murdered., Dt's only you singin', that will square me v/ith the neighbors and stop them from calling out the police and fire departments (Exit L.U.E. ) Venus Come on Farion - come on! That discouraging demon has de- pressed me sdj that i feel every note in me is flat, (Venus and TTarion exeunt up steps) (Re-enter Bunyan with LaJigdon R, Bunyan has his arm - locked in Langdon*s, Langdon trying to shake him loeee.) Bunyan I tell you Langdon - you've got to quife this Langdon And I tell you - NiKk Bimyan - to let me alone - -Damn you - let go of my arm - (Frees himself)- Bunyan And thisims your gratitude when I try to stop you making a fool o-f yourself, Langdon All you have a right to expect from me is thedeliverj'- -jf the geods. I deliver them, don't I? For the rest I am a free agent - and I shall exercise my privilege as a free man t:' make a fool of myself if I choose. I can afford it. I have no assest at stake - I have n(a money - no position - no character, no friends, but one soul in the world - I care for- and thank God - she is self supporting. 8-B Butjyaii I "begin to thirik that ivhat they say of you is Washington, is true. Langdon That I am insane - what does it matter ivhat they say or what you thinik - now„ There ?s no more deadly or cruel weapon than that charge as te a manis sanity - many hrilliant and capahle men have "been destroyed on maimed in their careers because of it. It got me out of the "bureau of engraving and printing - it denied me a chance to earn an honest live-li- hoodx&gx^am It "brought me down to the mire of your level Nick Bunyan - t© "become a swindler and a theif - Bunyan Hush " do you wsmt to provoke me tc murder you? Langdon Oh I don't fear that in the least - I haven't finished the plates for the issue of the new tens yet - "besides you might not make a go©d- jo"b of the murdering "business and I might get in my ante-mortem statement - of how your Drug esta"blish- ment and patent medicine "business masked the most dangerous csunterf eiting plant in America^ Bunyan Be quiet - I tell you - "be quiet! Langdon Then don't make any of your "bluffs - Do you know - there's ®ne thing that comfsrrts me - when they say I'm looney, and that Is - that I have still a sense of humor left me, Bunyan (Resiimes sanctified airO) Ah - you poor TvretchJ (Synipatheti- cally) You poor unfortunate wretch! Langdon There' you go 2 (Laughs) That is what gets me when you exude respecta'bility and oily pietyj How your fine friends here - Banker Doe, Deacon Du"bey and the rest will stare - if ever you are found out/ Bunyan Youres; a hopeless conumdrum - Langdon - Langdon Then why don't you give me up and let me alone. Bunyan Because your drunkeness is a constant menace to the success of out undertaking - yes - even to our liberty - You speak of "deliveringthe goods" - as if your engraving talents were all that you were required- to put into our enterprise., There's something else Langdon - necessary in a law "breaking scheme of this kind and that is o'bedience to your master. Langdon Master.' Bunyan That's what I said - Master, .^either I - nor are my partners willing to test the hospitality of Uncle Sam in a federal prison "because you are a degenerate drunkard - therefore as you won't regulate your conduct - I must regulate it for you. Langdon You? (Sneeringly) Really! I'd like to know - how? Bunyan (Slowly and quietly) Through Marion - Langdon (Starts) My - my daughter. Bunyan Of coirrse - she must "be "brought into the scheme - she must realize the responsihilities you have incurred. 9-B Lasagdon You mean you v/ould tell her that her father is a crirainal? Bunyan Yes - and that he is in constant danger of "being arrested and sent away for a term - tha,t at his age would mean a life sentence. Langdcn And you would "burthen my innocent child with the knowle ge of my guilt? You would make her an accomplice in oiir crime you would degrade her - you who professed to love her - Bunyan Ohj that love husiness is a thing of the past - my ambition ooks higher than the daughter of a - a - well - what you have proven yourself to "be. Blanche Doe fills my dreams now Karion to me is hut a pawn in our game of chess - I'll use her to achieve my purpose - now y^u know my position - you can govern yourself accordingly - Good-day; (Starts to go) Langdon Wait - you've stated your position - hut you havenH heard mine. If you attempt to come hetween me and the love my my child - if you try to hlacken me with her - if you succeed in drawing a tear from her eye or incompromising her in arch- way with your damnable shhemes - if I don't manage to kill you Nick Bunyan, I'll denounce y8u to the secret service - and you and I in a Federal prison, will share that hell to-gether. Bunyan You ungrateful old wold - you're showing your teeth^ eh? Langdcn Yes - and now that "you knov/ my position - yau can govern "yourself" accordingly - Cood-dayl (Goes to door marked Bar) Bunyan ITow tmderstand me - Langdon - if you - Langdon • . G9 to your tanker's daughter - go.' Gol and le;^ me alone - Damn you - let me alone. (Marion re-neters do^-vn steps L, ) Mari on Why Daddy - what are you doing here? Langdon (Stammers) Marion - I - Bunyan (Resumes sanctimonious manner, points to har) He's govering on the brink of danger Marion - He won't be advised by me„. Try what you can do my child to have him put the demon drink behind him. (Exit R.U.E. ) Langdon Wouldn't that make |iou sick. Marion Daddy - have you been quarreling with him again? Langdon I'm afraid I have - littlemother. Marion Don't do it - Daddy - don't, for my sake - jf you are un- comfortable in his employ leave him - one virho knows as many things as you, can't fail to get something to work at in this place - where everything is booming as they put it - and even if you don't. I'll take some more pupi3,s and we ' 11 get along some how. Langdon (Troubled) You ask me not to quarrel for your sake - j'^rion - Are you really fond of this man? Ti/rarion Now Daddy - ' . lO-B > Langdon Tell me Marion Uo - Daddy - He urged Ms love on me - and claimed lie had your sanction and - say Daddy - Don't let him come near me again - I - Langdon And you don't care for him - Marion Care for him - I know of no one in this world - who is as repulsive to me as he is. The mask of hypocricy he carries is to me as transparent as glass. He fawns to the powerful and bullies the weak and needy - I don't like him - Daddy - and I fear as much as I distrust him - Langdon (TTervously) Then if he should come to you and say things against your Daddy - you - you wouldn' tlasiaiEESSxx helieYe him, would you? Marion Believe him - no - and I'd hate him worse than ever: Venus (Outside up steps L. ) Marion - did you git that pen and ink yet - Marion (Calls hack) Not yet - "but I'll get it now - Mrs. Brown " you see - Daddy talking to you - I've forgotten about my pupil - I have to transpose some music for her to a lower key. (Reaenter R.U. DunnR.U.E.) Oh Mr. Dunnt I'd like t* have a pen and ink bottle for your sister. Dunn Certainlt - is her spasm over? (Goes behind counter.) Marion Spasm? (Puzzled) Dunn Has she "did" her "singing" - yet? Marion Not yet - I don't think she'll sing to-day. Dunn ThaM: God for thati Here's your pen and ink! (Hands them out over coiinter) Marion Thank you,, Mr. Dunn. You'll be home to tea - won't you - Daddy? Langdon Yes dear! Dunn Oh I'll start him on his vray home pretty soon - you leave that to me, (Marion pauses for an instant -■ then exits up-sfeeps L. ) Dunn I tell you Langdon - if I was in your place - I'd be ashamed of nQTself having a nice gal like that for a daughter - and a kind hearted generous boss like Bunyan - There's nothin' in this world disgusts me more than ingratitude -and when a fellow gets down and out and blows his last cent over my bar - I ain't got no use for him at all. Bunyan and me has been a talkin' about you just now - and you want to keep sober or he'll "can" you. Langdon Bunyan had better be careful or I'll "Can" him - Dunn (Amazed) What! Langdon And I don't want to hear anjt more insolence out of you - or I'll take iry custom elsewhere. 11-B Dunn Your custom elsewhere! Say old man are you awaire - you're making asound like money. Langdon M*ney! (Laughs bitterly) Hal Ha I Ha! - Money! How I de- spise the name . Dunn Yours for the "hrain storm shack" I knew it - I knew it. Langdon Money - why I handle money enough every week t© huy you "body and soul you poor sordid sycophantic worm, Dunn That's what they alJ. s^^ hefore they gc ""bug-house" - hut I don't want none of your bl^lff3 about here - or out you go. LangdOn BlTiffsI Bluffs^ (Pulls out express envelope pulls out bills lengthwise - all fives^ Do you see them? You idolatror! D»wn on your knees and worship you v«tary of Manmon for I'm in possession of your God! Tfwan Why Mr. Langdon - I had n© idea that - say - you musen't mind me "Jollying" a bit - say, have a drink ons me. Langdon Ho - I'll drink by norself - Dunn Allow me - (Crosses over to door marked bar, calls) Jim, give Mr. Langdon anything he wants. Voice (Outside) The "Tarantula" brand? Dunn Certainly not - give him - Deacon Dubey's private bottle .^ (Golds door, bows obsequiously as j.angdonexits R.) Dunn Where did he get it? "Where did he get it? And to think that all sponge was under cover and I never "knowed" it. (ReflectivelyT Them was some awful names, he called me. (Turns to door R.U.E. ) Hello! Hello! I wonder who's the "guy" that Blanche Roe has with her^ He's a strainger in town why they're coming in here - well - the -Hotel Dunn is the place for strangers - we always take them in. (Goes behind counter, enter Blanche Roe, followed by Jack Rodney - he carries a couple of suit-cases) Blanche Here you are sir, atthe hotel Dunn and this gentleman is the prorpietor. Jack I am more than indebted to you for your kindness Miss - Hiss (Coughs) Ahem! Blanche I wish I could do more - considering that l stabbed you in the back - Kr - Ifr - I - I didn't iiquite catch your name. Jack True - we haven't met yet - that is - of course we've met - I shall never forget it - our - our - Blanche Our "painful" meeting - you mean we have not been introduced "formally" - Jack Formally or latterly or - kind sir! (To Dunn) Dunn (Has been staring from m one to the other mystified) Ih? Jack Would you mind introducing me to this young lady? Dunn What are you giving me? Jack Whatever is usual - Dunn What « s your name ? Jack Jack Rodney. Dunn Rotteny? Jack ^ Rod - ney.' (Spells it ) R D If E Y Dunn But T'^iat vail her "Pa" say? Her Pa is one of our leading "Boobvillians" Jack "Boobvillians"? I don't care what kind of a "villian" he is. He could he "Desperate Desmond himself" - still i want to meet his daughter. Blanche Hvirry up Mr. Dunn - Dunn Ahem] Hiss Blanche - I mean - Miss "Doe" this .^ont here as says his name is Jake R ) R ) R ) ODMEY wants ';o raeet yer. Blanche ( Extends hand. Jack takes it) Delighted to meet you - Kr Redney - How's your poor neck - where I jabbed you with my hat-pin? Pardon me - Mr. Dunn- but Mr, Rodney and I chanced upon each other in a most extraordinary manner - I had been visiting my aunt who lives in Salem - and left her this afternoon - and took a chair in the parlor car just behind Kr. Rodney - he was dozing in his seat - just like this (Illustra-t ing) dead to the world. Dunn And I suppose - he was a "snoring" away to beat the band. Jack I don't snore - sir. Dunn That's what they all say - but if you'd seen as many "Jags" as I have -■ a settin around on my office chairs - excuse me, go on KissBlanche. Blanche I had some fifty miles of Journey before me and I removed my hat and started to pin it on the back of Mr. Rodney's chair, just then - at this - this - Jack Psychological moment - Blanche Thank you Mr. Rodney at this psychological moment the engineer put on thebrakes; The train halted with a jerk - and I was thrown forward. The hat pin passed through the sushioned char into Mr, Rodney's neck. Dunn Did it hurt much? Jack 'So - only about two indches and a half - Blanche Iwas paralized with horror - and fainted away - Ut . Rodney revived me - 13-B Jaci: That reminds me - v/Mle I w&s doing the revivalist act, I fear I robbed you of something - I found it entangled on my coat sleeve button ~ 1 herewith return it. (Hands her false hair puff} Blanche (Claps her hand to side of head) That is not mine sir - Jaclc It must be ~ Blanche It is false,! Jack Yes - I see that^ but I don't remember reviving any other lady to-day - however - (Puts it in his pocket) T)uxin (Behind counter) Will you register? (Extending pen to jack, Jack registers) Hun^jh! "What line are you in? Jacl- Line? Dunn Yesi Whatfs your business? Jack Promoter of Amateur Theatricals.' I am ever chasing the latent histrionic germ - which may develop into an embtyo "Bernhardt", "Eddie Poy" or "Eva Tanguay" and when I discover a promising microbe - I nourish it until it sprouts intc a bewildering ex-florescence ofdazzling Thesrpianic pulchritude I hope I make myself cleisr. Dunn Oh yesJ Oh yesI I'm only puzzled as to where I shall room yaq You seeonly the parlor is left! Eack The parlor will d© - Dunn But "then" germs - and microbs you talk of - won't they muss up the carpet? Jack ¥0 - not if they are real. It's only v^ith the imitations I muss the carpet - But I'll promise to be careful.. DuTin Remember I'll charge for any damage done to the furniture ~ lify sister is up there now with her music teacher - Miss Lang- don - takin' her lesson - bmt I'll go up and throw them out. Blanche HVhat is Marion here - I'll run up and see her. (About to exit Lo when Lang-don's voice checks her) Langdcim (Outside) Ho - Mr, Vane - I let no ma.n pay for my liquor - (Enters R., shaking off Harry Vane) ?/hat sottii of' a place do you run here Dunn - when you haven't got change for a five dollar bill? (flourishing the bill) ¥ane HiTow Mr, Langdon - (Endeavoring to soothe him) Langdon Let me alone 1 D.niin I'll change it - Langdon -I'll (peels in pocket) no I ain't got the cha.nge but I'll send out for it - you got anj'- change Mr, Rodney? Jack I think I have] 14-B (Jack pulls out "bills J at sound of jack's voice Vane starts Jack hands orer change - to Dunn - who takes the five from Langdon and gives him the change ^ Dunit then hands the five to Jack wh3 examines it and puts it in his pocket) Langdon Thank you sir I liTow gentlemen - you can all take a drink ohe me. Jack It's a little early for me - old man - Vane Excuse mel Mr, Langdon - Dunn Tell the "barkeeper to take out for a cigar for me; (Business at cigar case, Langdon hesitates an instant) Langdon Humph? (Exits R, ) Blanche Well - Mr. Harry Vane - can't you say - "How de do" to a person - I haven't seen you since yesterday. Ifane Pardon I ought to welcome you "back again Miss Blanche •»• Blanche I suppose yeu are wondering what I'm doing here instead of hurrying home to Pa - "but I've had a adventure - By the way - meet Mr. Rodney - Mr.. Vane - (The gentlemen bow and sfe,a.ke hands, "but evince no signs of recognition) Dunn (Puts cigar "back in case) Another ten cents to the good. I'll tote "Them grips of yourn" up - and fire my sister and 2i©r music teacher out of the parlor. (Gra'bs up suit cases, starts up stairs) Blanche Harry "Marion" is here - if you like you can walk home with both of us. (Follows Dunn up stairs, they exeunt L^) (Jack and Harry watch them off) (They shake hands again) Harry Jack! What are you doing here? Jack Pea-ming dramatic clubs for amateur Theatricals - Harry Oh piffle.! I mean - what are you really doing here -■ The Bureau sent you of course. Jack Of covirse - I've been sent fk "Jack" ycu up - Hatty - what;s the matter? The "Old man" is worried about you» You don't' seem to get actions Harry If that Is the case - I had better resign at once. Jack liTow - that's no way to talk - I haven't been sent here to supercede you - but to work with you - to help you - The Bureau fears that the position you hare taken in Doer's Bank - doesn't probably give you the opportunities - you ought to have - now you've been here several months - and I've only been here half an hour and I'll bet you a new gang of criminals than you are„ Have you had an^^^ of these preseskted at your bank? (Pulls out the five dollar^! bill he has changed f?ir Langdon) Harry (Exainining it) V/hy that is the counter-feit ! Jack Exactly! 15-B Harry And you got it here in to\'rai,? Jacl: Exactly i Harry Where? Jack Prom the old man - you called Langdon - I just changed it for him - Harry Why where did he get it? J'ack I am going to put him througkfc^ the thrid degree and find out. Harry You shan't do any such thing, -p-e's an unfortunate man cursed with an appetite for drink - but he is the soul of honor - why to "bring such a suspicioni on him would "break his daughter's heart. Jack 0h he has a daughter - eh? Harry Yes - the sweetheart girl in the world. Jack Um - I see - Say Harry - old pal - that Blanche - the banker's daughter - shefs some on sweetness - herself - isn'.t she? Harry Oh she?s very well - hut nothing /ike Marion , Jack Marion? Oh I suppose that is the name of the "Old souse's" daughter . Harry (Flaring up) Mr, Langdon »s daughter. Jack You like her pretty well, don't you? Harry S© well - that J hope to make her my wife - her father wishes her t© marry his employer "but - Jack "Who's hisemployer? Harry A drtiiggist here named Bunyan - A low minded h3rpocritical fraud. Jack I guess they're a pretty gang altogether - Harry Stop Jackl You shanH say a word against Marion or her father - ifryou do it will mean an end of our friendship. Jack That's pretty hard - Harry - I might remind you that our friendship dates "back more than a few weeks - I might also say that you saved my life once - and in a measure you are responsible for me - and can't throw me off - so suddem like - Harry (Repentant) Porgive me - jack ~ but - but - you don't understand. Jack Oh yes I do. Harry - old chap! ¥^e have b©th taken an oath to the government to do it's work. 16 -B Harry (Solemnly) It's degrading and dirty work at times,. Jack Perhaps I "Spying" is jaet tlae most elevating occupation in life ■- but we owe the government our duty. Harry - y©u-ve been sent here to act as it's eye - and I have "been sent here to act as an- other eye - If necessary - the Federal authorities will send others - you know Uncle Sam is Argus eyed - and in the end - you and I - if we don't do our duty - will be discredited and we'll have to look for other jobs, Ktow this Marion Langdon maybe (Marion enters down steps L. followed by Dunn, ¥eDius and Blanche) Harry Hush - she is here - (Bunyan and Langdon heard in angry altercation from bar R. ) Bunyan Give me that money - you ooti Give it to me - I say - Langdon No - I won't - let go of my arm - (Pause) (Bunyan enters R. holding roll of bills ^ Langdon staggers on after him) Bunyan Dunn - I'm surprised at you - selling this man liquori He taices money from my tile and squanders it in drink - - Langdon (Very drink) A fine dhance - anyone hast to - Eicl (Staggers into chair by table L. falls asleep) Bunyan Send for a constable and have this rum soaked ruffiaii put in the lockup to sleep off his drunken stew. Dunn Yes - Mr. Bunyaji - Jack Wait-.' Send for a cab. Landlord - and have this inebriated gentlemaji taken to his home v/here he may recover from his indisposition, Bunyan Dunn - d ' him in many ways? Jack Bunyan— eh? Well Bunyan will get all tliat's coming to him — and soon--- Ejanche ^- Do you know that he has actually dared to make love to m:e during your absence? / ja ck The beast I Blanche IsnH he? And everjrone thought he was going to marry -n/rarion when they first came here, j,iarion, better off, though.- ■" She and Harry Vane are so fond of each other. 'Won't it be nivoj if we can all be married the same day^ a double wedding. (Vane enters L U E) jack. Ahem, I don't think that is likely, that is, I don't think Harry Vane and Marion Langdon will ever become man and wife-- 7-S Vane (Comes down,) And "wh^ not— Mr. Rodney? Jack (startled) Harry- Vane Answer nt question, if you please. TiVliy do you speak so confidently of matters tliat only concern ni^rion and myself. Jack (pause) Blanche— you had hetter go into the house --Mr. Vane and I have a little matter to discuss — (leading her to house) Vane Miss Does is welcorae to remain— In fact under the circumstancss she shall remain. You were making a confidant of her when I-- jack When you "hutted In" Yes, that's all right Harry, you needn't apologize. Go into the house, Blanche, go in, Blanche Oh jack, you're not going to quarrel? Jack I hope not. If I am in danger, I willscream for help — and you can come and save me . Vane Stop this comedy, and answer raj^'^ question, and answer it at once or — ( ad-van cing) Jack Blanche I (Points to house, Blanche goes into the house, after looking wonieringly from one to the other) (quietly.) Iferry, I'm going to give youa hit of advic©. Never air j^our private affairs in public, jf you think well of a woman, never make her the cause of a brawl, you only put a dint in her reputation. Harry, I'm just back from v^ashington. Mien I spoke to Blanche just now and doubted that i^arion i^angdon would ever be your wife. I had the result of my trip in mind. Harry YOU are still chasing the old "will of the wisp" eh? Your suspicions of Mr. Langdon. Jack (jjarion appears on porch) Those suspicions are confirmed. Langdon bore a different name when he was in the employ of the government. The most expert engraver in the Bureau in -Washington- He lost his position throiigh his ^mfortunate vice, but his work still lives. There is nothing perfect however— and the very faults — the tricks of the tool, the ifeiaifiK Imnuverisns, the touch, are all present in the counterfeit five dollar silver certificate now cinculating broadcast through the covintry. The vignette of the Indian's head for instance — (Langdon appears on porch Marion motions him to silence) Harry Oh stop. Stop. Stop. You sicken me with your scientific details, and even if it is tm^e — Marion — is — Oh God — )His face in hands) Jack ijarionl Harry are you mad? Can you marry the daughter of a thief, a womai who nust be cognizant of her father 's crime — and therefore as guilty as he. (Marion and Langdon steal behing house listening) 8-S Harry Stop'. I warn you— stop, I implore you by our old f riendsiiip, Ja ck ^ . . I am standing between you and your life's ruin, I am standing between you aftd your dishonor. You have taken an oath to the government to preform it>s work, I call upon you to drvfur duty, xf you fall down, I'll see this natter through o me do your duty, jf you rail aown, I'li see -tux;, '^^X^^' "^t imraelUf alone, tut by God, I'll blot you from my list of friends, were you doubly dear as you have alvays been t Harry Then I'm to regard you as an enemy, because I forbid you to defame the woman I love. Jack The woman you love. You're letting your infatuation for a pretty face blight yoiar career, and make you flase to your word, and a traitor to your manhoods Hariy Manhood. What sort of manhood are you showing when you war on women? Jack Crime has no sex? Harry I'll have no more. G-o on with ^ our damnable sneaking work- but understand— anyone who strikes at T^arion langdon, strik:e&' ai me, for I'm on her side and v/ill fight her quarrel against you and the whole infernal secret service besides, I'll wire my resignation to Lignumhead at once . jack geflore you send that message, read the results of n^ labors in Washington, Here I (hands him large envelope which he takes from breast pocket) Harry Damn your labors and damn -n^shington. (throwing envelope on stage) jack I want to pub you on equal terms with me before we go gunning for one another. Harry Oh let me alone, you talk like a child (Throws himself on seat) Jack You mean*- I'm talking to a child.. Before you send your telegram— read, and if you don't a.greet with me that the federal prison at Leavenworth is the proper home for this band of crooks "Johnny will get his gum" and let you have first shot, (exits into house) Harry (pause, in agitation picks up envelope from stage where he has flung it, pauses in indecision then suddenly) No — no. — no— I will not read it. I v/ill not so insult the woitan I love bu such a suspicion. I would lather deny my immortal soul, tlan doubt her truth, (flings envelope to L of him) Hiarion •appears RUE sobbing.) Harry i Harry I Harry ^^rion nry darling, (rushes to her and clasps her in his arms,) Why, why, are you crying dear. Ah — you — you heard what has just passed? Marion I — I — heard everything-. Harry — and I— your friend is wrong, we— ~we — are not aishonest, (jje draws her down the stage to seat in front of house) 9-S Harry- There . There. There, (soothing her.) Don't think of it. I'll make Rodney pay dearly for every tear drop he has made you shed. (As Harry draws ^ijarion down stage Langdon emerges ..rom shadow of the house R. U. E. ^e steals over towards envelope which lies on ground •f,fa ri on . I axa. not a thief "-mjr father is not a thief.. (Langdon picks up envelope pockets it, steals back to . house , exits ) Harry I know there is no deceit in you or yours, ifarion. I wish I could say the same of myself. I hav6 been living here under false colors — ostensibly a bank clerk. I have been doing detective work as an eir^Jloyee of the government. j^arion. And now Mr. Rodney is in the service also? Harry Yes«- Tijarion (Bitterly J I am sorry that he has selected my poor old father ^^^ nrsrself as fit subjects for his investigation. Harry The man is insane? Marion On what does he base his suspicions? Harru On something little more than theory, that our superiors in office have framed--that a dangerous counterfeiting plant is in operation here in Boobville? Uone of the nofees put into circulation here — but are distributed to distant points, jack Rodney has become a monomaniac on this particular case, and was sent here to track down the criminal and — Marion He said the results were in that envelope that he endeavored to have you read* — Harry Yes— (looks around L) Why where is that envelope, I dropped it when I heard your voice — strange — (goes over L searches for envelope®, lighting matches to assist him in search) (enter Bunyan and Langdon from house) Harry The package was weighty — the wind could n>.t have blown it away? Bunyan Ahem, (coughs.) Have you lost something Mr. Vane? Harry (Looks up answers shortly.) v®s, I have. Bunyan (coughs) Aheml ^||^,s it of value? Harry (continues searching.) Not much to me, the owner might think that it was worth something? Bunyan Ageml "Who is the owner? Harry if you are particularly interested, I would say that the owner is the party who entrust^^d it to me. lO-S Bunyan Alieral I have just "been with Banker Doe He asked me to tell you that in case you arrived, that he wishes you to come to his study immediately. Harry (Interrogatively) Yes. All right, Marion search for that package will you, while I find out what Mr. Doe wants? (exits into house R) Ma ri on lather— have you any matches? Help me v/on'tyou? Bunyan Don*t trouble yourself T\,farion, The package you seek is safe? Marion Safe? Bunyan Yes, safe in my possession. Your father picked it up and very Wisely turned it over to me. I shall seize the first oppor- tunity and find out exactly what these spies of the secret service know ahout our enterprise-*- Marion Our enterprise? Then you are— oh no — no — no — irapossihle'. It can't he, juther tell this man he lies — You are silent. Then you whom I have toiled for, you, whom I have tended and loved , you whom I have alv/aus honored with a daughter&s reverence, you, whom I defended and extolled hut five minutes ago, "you are after all a thief, and may God pity US hoth— YOU ARE MY FATHER, Langdon . - Speak to me Bunyan. I cannot, I have no defense to offer. I— I am helpless. It is -fcrtisr fate- -rate that I have feared so long. I'ate now stretches out her avenging hand and lays me among the ruins of all that was precious to me. BunygjQ Ijarion listen to me. if that old fool had taken ray advice this surprise would not have come on you so suddenly. I wanted to make you a confidante in our operations. You're a clever girl you could have shared in our prospective profits — Marion Shared in the wages of your crime? Bunyan Tut 4 Tut I We will call out "business in the manufacture of silver certificates-- a competitive speculation. However we haven't time to go into the ethics of our operations, -^e are menaced ray dear Marion— our liberty and pursuit of happiness are seriously threatened. It behooves uc all to get together and devise a plan by which we candraw the teeth of these government wolves, who are closing in on us. You can help materially— Marion I^^I^helpl Bunyan Yes, you, I understand that these two gentlemanly sleuths, are quarreling over you. It will be easy to bring matters to a climax between them. Vane is hopt tempered and impulsive-- Your woman's wit can devise a plan by which the Rodney fellow can be brought to put a slight — an insult upon you, which -yane will speedily wash out in his heart's blood. These secret service fellows always go armed. It would be capital if they would both be killed hn the battle--but in any event, Rodney must be disposed of and speedily. iTow my idea is*— II-S iTarion Are you the arch fiBnd himself — or but one of his servants to whom I am listening, V/ith your fiendish cxmning you have erameshed ray father in your schemes of theft, and nov; in your blasphemy of an all righteous God. You wovild enlist rie his daughter- -to help you weave yonr weh of murder— Bunyan Would you see your father perish in a felon's cell? Marion Yes--rather than face his eternal judge with the guilt of "blood upon his soul. Oh father, let us f 3e e at once from this devil. We will change ovr names. There must be some place of refuge, where we can hide in safety, some place where you can mourn yoiir sin and repent. Listen no more to that man — avoid him as you would a pestilence — courage i Father J Courage — It is your ffarion who speaks. You have yet some energy- left but even if you are helplessi am not — I v/ill work for toth. Langdon "Where can we go— my child. The eye of the Government v/ill track xis wherever we may hide. No — no — you shall not wreck your life's happiness, more than you have- alreaay, and for such an \inworthy father^ I will meet my punishment, whatever it is, but you shall not be sacrificed. The yoimg man vvho cares so much± xs for you , he will not blame you when he knovi/s how innocent you are. You will love and be loved-- and in my prison — I will be content. Bunyan A very nice arrangement, but viiat becomes of me? Ho, we sink or swim together. Marion shall do my bicding? Langdon She shall not? Bunyan "What do you mean? langdon She shall act as her own heart dictates? Bunyan Oh you defy me, eh? You old dotard. I will shov,r you who is the master. Folow me upon this instant — liar ion My father goes with me? Bunyan We'll see about that, (he swings langdon around L as Marion attempts to interefere he pushes La?qgdon violently down R, Langdon comes back at Bunyan who strikes him a left hander knocking the old man down Left, Jack enters from house) Marion You covjard'. You low-lived covTard. • Bunyan Shut up, or I'll give you some of the same medicine? jack Nay — Doctor— nay. Herein the physician must take his ovm dose. (Hits' Bunyan toppling him over.) How do you like the prescription? if you don't think it will do you any good^ I will trjr some of my own remeaies — Marion (crosses to Langdon Y/ho has regained his feet.) Father, JteaiJa dear father come home? I3-S Langdon Will — will — the gentleman permit it? Jaci: He's not a gentleman, Mr. Langdon, but I don't think that he will hother you again? * Largdon, Y/hen I said "gentleman" I never meant Bunyan sir, hut you. You have no objection to our going home? Jack ¥/hy no (pause) I will i-jalk that way v/ith you? Marion (aside.) We are lots — ^we are lost. (Bursts into an uncontrollable fit of sobbing) jack There, there, there Miss Langdon, don't take on so.- Things can't be so bad, but they might be worse. Come', come, be brave little viforaan, be brave. Take her other arm sir. (jack puts his arm around Marion who is almost in a state of collapse) (Business and they exuent slowly L 3 E) (Bunyan watches them draws murderous looking knife looking at it ) Exanyan I'm not usually s — slow to think. Why dicin't I bury five inches of steel in him, when I had the chance? Harry (enters from house) Bunyan (hiding knife.) Oh Mr, Vane, I wish that you had been here. That Rodney fellow has been acting outre, eously. h© knocked Langdon down, handled his, daughter mest brutally, and v/hen I strove to protect them, he assaulted me. It's a cowardly thing to abuse a woman the Viray he is doing- Look 1 Look I lie has hold of her now, Harry What I (dravjing revolver) Damn him', (exits L 3 E pause, confused, murmur of voices. Harry and jack both speaking ) jack (outside) Let go of that gun? Harry (tutside) I will not? firarion (screaming) Help.. Help, (enter going to house) Langdon, Gentlemen. Gentlemen. (Harry and jack enter struggling over pistol, as they get in front of tree, the pistol goess off, jack retains possession of the pistol throwing Harry dov/n R. Bunyan from behtndl tree stabs jack under right arm he staggers and falls on bench stretched out. Langdon enters L 3 E goes down L) Blanche j Dunn and Venus, entering from house) *• ¥jhat is the matter? Omnes Bunyan Murder'. Arrest that man, jje has just shot Mr. Rodney, Blanche (coming over to tree, kneels by Rodney.) jack. jack. Speak to me— speak. I3-S You hear the charge Vane? What have you to say? Bunyan He can't deny it. I savf the crime — . Dunn Can't you--speak — Vane? jack (Half reviving) If he can't, I can. That--that fellow Bunyan is an awful liar. Dunn'. Harry and I were just skylarking over the gun — and — and it went off, iDut the "bullet never touched me— never — touched me* Excuse me Blanche far not rising- — ■but--(sv/oons on "bench) CURT A X B II II II II II II TT ACT III Interior of the Baxik. Same Night as Act II GXTIEIOR BACKIN G 2 EXTERIOR BACKING 8x (1) Is a door at "back L. U. E, Interior backing (2) Isa winuow at back R. U E, Exterior backing (3) Its a windoviT side L^ (4 ) A safe door at least six feet hi^„ Door is padded to present solid appearance and has several metal plates on it"-that the electric drill efi'ect nay be v^rorked, (5) Is a wire cage for teller--cashier--etc , (6) Opening to Cage, Window 2 and 3 are barred, bars break away on windov/ R, U. E. Sraashin g glass effect vjorked on Tidndow L, Electroliers on walls — a socket for plug by safe. Table ana chair s L of C) Spring roller shades or^ both windov/s. --oooIIIIIIlooo— - I-S ACT III AT RISE: Curtain goes up on da.r'k. scene. Noi:-e of file on bars of windov/ R. u. E- Bunyan from ■behind winuow works spring rolling shade, it rises, revealing Bi^nyan and Langdon. Langon carries pocket latmp. Eimyan climbs through windov/ R U E He carries a "bag, supposed to cobtain hurgiLar tools. Cunyan Come on Daddy. Come on and don't take all night about it? (langdon climbs through window follows Bunyan down stage. Bunyan after placing bag on table crosses over R by safe door) Langd on Speak Bunyan? Vi/hy have you brought me here and what new deviltry is yc)ur fertile brain hatching? Bunyan Would you call the assurance of ovor safety, deviltry? I want to make certain that neither of us goes toa federal prison. Behind the doors of that vault — (pointing to door of safe,) is the only tajigible evidence against us? Langdon The only evidence? Bunyan Yes, the plates engraven by you and- every printed note we have not already put into circulation. Langdon, How, did they get here in Doe's Baiak? Bunyan I placed them in a tin cash box, which I locked and sea^d "and left here this afternoon. Langdon „ That was madness, I can't see what — Bunj^an Langdon, you can't see a great many things. You are not the only scientist who is an idiot when common sense is required? Langdon, Is it common sense to put your head in the lion's jaws. With the net of the secret service being drawn closer and tighter around us every hour, instead of destroying those radaning proofs, you place them here — where-- Bunyan "Where no one would ever think of searching for them.- You v/oxildn't look for counterfeit money in a bank, would you? Langdon, But, why have we forced our way in here? Bunyan Because conditions hqve changed since this afternoon. Rodney lies wounded in the Bankers house, and is being nursed by Blanche Mr. Does has learned by this^-that you and I are under suspicion? I wouldn't sleep early to-night thinking that they might take it into their heads to esEamine that tin box-- in the morning — langdon And you propose now-- Bunyan To remove the box v/ith it's dangerous contents from Banker Doe • s safe ty vault , Langci on Uurglarly — eh? 2un3;-axi You have hit it. So get busy. This bag contains all the necessary "junk" to "blow the safe. (They busy tgeinselves over electric drill which is ,ttached to v/ire and plug) Bunyan (exanining v/all with lantern,) There ought to be a socket here. Ah yes — here it is. (unscrews incandescent globe attaches plug in it's place) IJow my che»".:ical friend you had better prepare the explosives while I drill the holes, (places the drill against the iiaetal plates on door of vault. The trlectric sparks fly) Langdon, One moment . Eunyan Eh? V/hat is it, (continues using the drill) Lang don.. Grant that we get access to the interior of the vai3t--do v/e take any of the contents besides the tin box the evidence of our crime? Biinyan My Dear Langdon„ I am declined to take anything that is of value? Langdon. Then I ?/ill have nothing to do with the job? Bunyan Eh— what's this— Rebellion? Langdono I want to have a thorough understanfing before we go further. Bunyan Have you gro>./n squeamish already. Langd on. Yes. 'Zxmyan You're v/illing to steal one thing and not another » V/hat is the difference? Langdon, I am helping you to gain possession of the box in order that it T&e destroyed, and that we may save ourselves from prison. but that is as far as I will go, I vvill go no de-por into the pit of hell? ^ Bunyan - ■ Old man. You can go as far as you like. Allov; me the same . privilege . Langdon Ho Bunyan What's that, (ceases vi/orking drill) Langdon, I say, NO., Before you take another step in this burglarly — I want yotur solemn oath, that you will leave the contents of that safe inviolate, save for wlrat we can call our own , Bunyan (pause, then carelessly..) Oh very ".'ell (resumes business with drill, the sparks fly again) Langdon, Your oath — I said — Bunyan You have it. V/hy--hov suspicious you are , Don't you know that whatever nn- faults may be, truth is my strong point? 3-S Langclon, And fxirthsnaore— those plates and every counterfiet note in that box are to he aestroyed at once. Bunyan Anjrthing more? Langdon. That you will not interefere v;ith rajr caughter, and myself leaving you imniediately « I am sickened vvith the atmosphere of crime'. I v^rish to pass my few remaining days in honest work and in peace, (pause,) Do you agree to my terms? Eunyan Of course. Only get a move on you and prepare the hlast, Langdon . (Busying himself with vials etc which he takes from hag) (Looks at Bunyah who has heen husy with electric drill all the time,) VkTiy are you cirilling those holes hy thr hinges, it would he better to "blow off the combination, (Bvmyan unscrews plug) Bunyan You are the doctor, but this v/ire isn't long enough — we'll use the other socket. Dunn (Outside.) You'd better let me try i^y hand at it. Miss Blanche J I'm the candy kid ?Aien it comes to locks. Langdon (whispers) The re ^s someone at the front door, BunyaJi Yes, they're trying to get in. Quickl (signs to Langdon who gathers up package placing them in bag) Dunn. (outside) Gosh ding it, I've dropped the key. Got a match Venus? Bunyan Here'. (To Langdon and handing him drill ajid wire) Not/ we'd better chase. Langdon, How? T'yhere? Bunyan Where we got in. Idiots (steps on chair jumps out window RUE. lyj^jcin follovs with bag but loses his cap pulls down sha^.e) (pause enter Durnj Blanche and Venus) Dunn I'd like to knov; what we all a. re doing- in your Pa^s barak .at this time of the nighty Miss Blanche? I feel YQiy much in the dark .. 3 la no he Well J I'll thrOY/ a little light on the subject if I can find the switch. Ah. (she gropes along u^allriat back finds ST/itch The lights go up) Ah^ That's better. Venus I should' say it was ^ I'm always in the dark^ Dunn Why"-what are you sacred of? Venus I'm always afraid of some v/icked ma.n grabbing hold of me? D'unn You ought to' carry a pocket lamp and flash it on him, then he ' d drop dead , 4-S Venus R, U. Djuin, ITiat do you mean by that? Dunn Nothing. Say Miss Blanche, whay are v/e here? Blanche Papa vuants the combination changed on the saf e « Jie is too ill to come- over himself and sent me — Dunn And can you change it? Blanche Of course. I know all about thissafe* It was installed when I was a little girl, and I watched the workman— every move they made. (Blanche sets to work at combination) Venus I suppose Blanche regarded her father's bank as a play ground, and the safe v^'as a sort of toy. You male creatures don't understand these things, which means so much. Ah the memories of my girlish pranks, are always lingering with me, (Blanche consults nimibers on card while working at safe) Dunn Why, all children are alike. You and me was just as foolish You know Miss Blanche, Our father was an undertaker and ns and Venus used to play "Hide and Seek" among the Coffins, Venus Rt tJ, you are a heartless brute? Dunn I'd like to know — why? Venus You are aloirays reminding me of my three husbands who are lying side by side on the hill-side yonder, (sobs violently) Silent — 'Silent-- Dunn How Venus cut out them weep a, and think how much better off they are. Why, if they could talk they'd all congratulate one another. Don't blame me for gettin' started on this cry in' spell. You know you're only sore because you didn't get no chance to-night to do your stunts. All the excitement we've had and Mr. Rodney fjettin' hurt. Venus Poor Jackl Poor jack J He must come to the hotel just as soon as possible — so I can nurse him, Blanche He will be better off where he is Venus, I'll attend to the nursing. (Opens safe) Venus Par din me Miss Blanche Doe, but I might remdind you that the Hotel Dunn is Mr. Rodneys regular domicile. He has always stopped with us since he came to tovm. Blanche And I might remind you Mrs Venus Dunn, Brown, that I viras the one who brought him to your hotels Venus And I have regarded him as one of tlB family. Blanche I regard him something like that inyself, ■ Venus I don't know v/hy you should. Blanche 5-S Blanche (flares up,) "Why shouldn't I? I've known him longer than you have or anyone else has in tovjn, I met him on hi^ Tfiay here and we 'became friends from the moment I jahte d him with my hat pin? Venus I also might remind you that I am e, You shall not,, You shall not? Bunyan Langdonl You keep her quiet if you know vihat ' s goes' for both of you, (LaMgdon seizes hold of Marion half begging and half threatening, draws her over to Lj \Thile Bunyan v/orks at safe R) Bunyan Three — two — ^one » (working knobs) Four seven nine ^ I hope this is all right Langdon, I had to fight to get it. Luckily I was masked, and even if j'-oung Vane ever survives, the blow I gave him with the black Jack — I feel I am safe-. Eighl Six! Five!, and open she comes,, (swings door of safe open; Marion., (struggling with Langdon) He-'-he stuck Vane, He struck Vane j he said, and this is the man who is your master.- Let me go,. Let me o, (Breaks away) Langdon, "What v/ould you do, Marion. Put both of you behind the bars ?/here you belong,. Langd on „ No — -no — -^.farionf. See,; See„ jie has the box^ it contains the proof d of ray crime, onEe destroyedo I am free — free-- from all fear.„ I will lead a upright life henecforth,, I swear it Marion, I swear it j by my love for youc Give me the box Bunyan QuickJ Give it to'me? Give it -to me? Bunyan (Has removed tin box from safe lays it on the floor j and as Langdon comes towards him he puts his foot on it ) Give it to you? For what? Langdon, In order that we inay destroy it? Eunj'-an I'umi attend to that little "business if I find it necessary? Langd on » But you sv/ore to me? Bunyan Don't "bother me I ' I v/ant to find out wMt else is worth taking he re? Langd on. ■ You shan't take anything else„ ( screaming^ ) You sfen't.- You shan't-., (seizes Bunyan v/ho turns on him anfl strikes him knocking him dci/vn) f^arionr, You coward I You miserable cov^fard, hut you shall he punished, I'll have you in the felon's dock. ■xsrk. for this night's work as sure as there is an avenging God. (works spring roller hlind of windav on left, it flies up she picks up chatr., ana smashes window screaming) Help,, Help. Help. (at windov/ moonlight streams in lights up the room) Bunj^-an (spring for her and seizing her,) You She devils You forme me to make an end of you — do you? Come here-.' Come away from that window, I say, (Marion continues screaming Bunyan drags her over right by safe) BunjT'an Keep quiet,, Keep quiet,. You won't? Then die,- Damnsj-ou — aie? (pushes her through door of safe, slams door shut, works knob of combination,) Die a lingering death by suffocationo For there is enough air in there to keep you alive a quarter of an hour c Langdon „ (staggering to feet he is half stunned by blow) Bunyan-'-what have you- done „ Open the door, open tt for Gcd''s sake ^ Ifercyi Open it ^ Save M^-rion and I v/ill be your slave? Bunyan If's too late, I've forgotten the coralsj.nation?- Tangdon „ ■ (half crazed hysterically.) You fiends You fiend J (seizes Bunyan by the throat) Bunyan I've had enough of you.- (draws black Jack and beats Langd on down Lang done falls over L,) Ja ok , (outsioe,) The screams vi^ere from the bank? Harry Let's enter- — I have my key? (Bunyan picks up box quickly exits through window RUE pause) Harry (outside^) I tell you the man viras masked, he struck me with a black Jack- — grabbed Blanche ^s bag and fled... (Harry and Jadk enter door L U E, Harrjr turns on switch the lights go up Harry has his head tied up. Jack is in his shirt sleeves, and carries pistol) II-S Jack Let's see what we have here, (falls over "bag,) Burglar's tools. Exhibit lTo„ I. "What's this? (picks up Blanche's virrist bag) Harry- Why, that belongs to Blanche? Jack , Exhibit, NOc 2, Your hold, up friend's been heroo (Langdon groans) Ja ck r. (Jumps to him- — raises his head,.) Langdon — I'm sorry- — Exhibit No. 3« Harry Mr, Langdon I See j he's wounded. Mr :> Langcijon'--who has done this Langdon, (half reviving^) Save Marion o Save me child. Ha rry . Marion I Langdon , ■ Yes--in safe--locked--in--quick , Quicko (half surviving) Jacko He means his daughter is in the vaults Harry ,5 open it at once? Harry I can't—Blanche has changed the combination, V/hat's to be done — what's to be done? Jack, No time to reach Blanche = We have the tools at hand, I'll tvirn burglar? Langdon.. Safe already— drilled— charge planted — fuse' — light fuse. (faints dead av;ay) Jack^ (Jumps for saf e „ ) He's right by thimder. Here is the fuse„ f strikes match— lights fuse,) Look out for the fire-works,. (They draw back--itoud esLplosion door of safe is forced partially off hinges, jack and Harrj'- jump for door and hy united strength raanaj;e to pull it away<.) Harry exits into safe) (enter Bunyan- — Dimn Blanche and police) Bunyan Aha] Caught in the act « Officer secure your prisoner? Jack, (Ho]ds b9,ck police v/ith pistol.) Hot so fast, old chaps. You've got the wrong man, and I can prove it? Omnes How? Ho w? ■ Mari on » (enters with Harry,) By me I Omnes llfarion Langdon? J13. ri on , Yes, and who here before you all charges that man with attempted murder , (Points at Bunyan,.) I told you I would have you behind the bars— ITick Bunyan, and you'll see, I'll keep my wordo G U R T A !_ N II II II II II II n 1-B Act 4t]i Next morning. ''•Nicholas Eunyan's La"baratory. A plain interior Q 1, Door R. of C. up stage with lock and key. 2-. Door L,U.E. with lock and key - this door to "break away, 3. Window curtained - practicable - 4. Door R. Supposed to lead to drug store. 5/ Shelves with colored jars of chemicals. 6. Tahle. (Large) with retorts, mortar and pestle. Pitcher of water and gohlet on table. 7. Bench 2-B Act 4tla, (At rise, ^rarian, JSlanche and Jack discovered) Jack Then Marion^ you are determined to tell me absolutely nothing., Marion I have said all, I can say ISx, Rodney. Father is restless = I must go to him. (Exit L, doo r) Blanche - ■Why do you worry the life and soul out of the poor girl^, Jack That is a detail of the "business. Blanche Then if f v;ere you - I'd get into some other "business. Jack Confound it - Blanche - you donH understand you' vemeddled in this affaira and turned everything into sixes and sevens^ you are queering me, and this promised to he one of the prettiest cases that x have ever handled. Blanche Hear the manj Be I s actually proud of his degraded caU.ing - nad in -"rhat -raj sir^ have I queered you •- as you sfl elegantly _ express it. Jack Have you given !toonds f-^r the appearance of Langdon and his daughter, Blanche That is my right sir - a right guaranteed to me under the con- stitution of this state - A v/oman married or unmarried has the privilege of controlling her OT/n money ^.^ithout any interference from her hushand or hus'hand who is to he. What would you have? Marion and her poor old father remain in jail? Jack It v/ould be better for the case. Blanche Brut el Jack ■'JVell they'll have to talk before the Grand jury - yes and you too. Blanche Oh indeedl Jack Yes - indeed. Don't you v/ant to help the cause of justice? Blanche if justice is what I think is justice certainly - but if jus- tied is apposed to my own particular notions of what is right ■ certainly not . jack Don't you want to see Bj^cnyan punished? Blanche The slimy - sneaking vampire - yes -- if j had my way - IM boil him in oil. (Enter Harry) Jack ^'^ell unless Tfarion and her father turn states evidence against the scoundrel - (Enter Harry L. ) Harry ■w/hich they will never do- jack p-arry ! 3-B Harry I am acting as counsel for' Marion and her father and hare adTised them tostand pat, Blanche Good for you - Harry - I don't exactly know what "standing pat" means, "but standing suggests" up rmght" - and Pat sounds Irish - and the combination "Upright and Irish" looks good to me . Harry I wired nor resignation to Lignum Lead - and have gone tiack t© practice law again - Jack] and my first work in the interests of T/rarion and her father. They shall say nothing to in- criminate th ems elves. Blanche Bully fsrr you - Harry! Jack They will have to answer for their presence in the hankand their knowledge guilty or otherwise of the "burglary Blanche Mr. Rodney - that is "My Pa's" "bank - and if my Pa don(t choose to prosecute them - what then? My Pa has a right to do any old thing he chooses with his "bank - hasn't he! and I have a right to make him do anything I choose - Haven't I - and there you arei Jack Huirgjhl We seem to "be in a tangle here. (Pause j then refelctive- ly) I've searched this house from cellar to roof - and i can find no evidence against Bunyan in the counterfeiting scheme. He must have placed everything in that tin "box - which was the only thing taken from the "bank last night. But is he going to escape! Uo - Damn it all - he isn't! I'm not going to give it up. I'm not going t© have, my a,"bor of months wasted. I8m not going back to my superiors Ifi "wirashington - and tell them I'm a failure - I'm not going Xo be beaten by a vulgar hypoctttical thief and suffer him to still carry on his damnable schemes - and you can all put that in your pipes and smoke it. Harry I'm sorry - Jack - but Jack Sorry - you? (In contei^pt) Tou make'me sick - Harry See here - I've always been your friend. Jack I don't want your friendship any more - Henceforth I regard you as fighting on the fttjier side - you've been false to your trust - false to yourself'. Yes - even false to the girl you pretend to love you know and I know that Bunyan attempted her life- --last night by putting her in the vault - that only Providence guided us there in time to save her. You know it v/as Bunyan who struck you "to the earth and robbed Blanche here. You are insensible to your oivn wrongs - you are callous to the fact that this poisonous monster is to be set loose to again infect society. Harry You don't understand you are incaj>able of understanding my position - my feelings. Blanche Oh no he isn't - I'm sure if my father were in, the danger that threatens IDc . Langdon - and that i st^od in Marion's place - Jack woiiftd do the same as you are doing, "^fouldn't you - Jack? Jack Eot by a damned sight. 4-B Blanche ■What* Then you don't love me? Jack Oh yes,- I do — hut not enough tc "become an accomplice of crooks for your sake. Harry 'Sa.Gt Rodney - you take that hack. Jack N© - I won't take it hack - and let me warn you that if you start anything again with me, I'll give you all that's coming to you. I*m sorry for old man Langdon^ but my sympathy can't blind the law - and should be punished. As for you Harry Yes. Jack You say you have left the secret service - well - the secret service is better f«»r having men as v/eak as you - out of it[s ranks. Good-bye. Blanche And let me say something to you Jack Rodney, If you v/ere not connected v^ath the secret service - you would be a better man. I don't love you any more - and you will please con- sider our engagement at an end (Business, she takes off the engagement ring, he has given her in Act 2ndj and hands it to him. Jack takes the ring) You will return my letters and anything else you have of mine. Jack The letters are in my trunk at the hotel Dunn - i have nothing else - but - but - (Pulls out small package from inside pocket) Shis - I have carried it next to my hasart since the day we first met. Take it - (Puts it in her hand) Farewell - (Exits) Blanche What is it - he has carried next his heart J- (Examining package) (Business she opens it) A false hair puff! ^^retch! and I assured him it wasn't mine. (Pause) And he*s gone away, -p-e's actually gone - never made the slightest effort to t<5 amke up with me. (Turns savagely fen Harry Vane) You! You are the cause of this - I hate you. Harry (Recoiling as she advances on him, reproaching him) '^Wiy - Miss Blanche - what have I to do with it - didn't you yourself jrell him your engagement was at an end? Blanche YeSj but he had no right to take it as coolly, Harry Didn't you give him back his ring? Blanche Certainly, but i never expected he would take it. ^.Taat's to be done - what's to be done? If I could only jio something to win him back again - Don't look at me that way' (Stamps her foot at p-arry) You may think me a fool - but I'm not - Bunyan (outside) Come into the labratory - Mr. Dunn - and I'll hear all you have to say. Blanche Oh Lord, the BeastI How did he get out? (Enter Bunyan, and Dunn, Dunn is carrying suit-case) 5-B Bunyan (Seeing ir^-rry and Blanche) Wiat is the meaning of this intru- sion? ^Jhat axe you people doing here in my lahnrratory? Harry We have "been visiting I£r. Langdon and his daughter. Bunyan That old thief has had the assurance to return to his quarter has he? Well, I'll see that he gets out and soon. In the meantime - confine your visits to his domicile and don't come prying- about my establishment, Harry (About to make angry retort checks himself) Come Miss Blanche. Blanche IN"© excuse me. Harry - make my apologies to Marion, I find I have something very important on hand - I'll go out this- way. Bunyan Yes, go out that way - but see that you don't come in that way again - Uow get outl Go to your father -- "The banker"' Blanche Get out yourself and go to your father - the devil, (Exit R door at back, Harry exit door L. Bunyan goes7 after him, locks door L. then turns to Dunn) Bunyan Now talk quickly - what is it^ Dunn I have a message from Deacon Dubey' Tie signed your bonds as you asked. Bunyan I knew he would. Dunn And he returns you this - which you hid in his stable last night and he bego for the love of mike you'll get rid of it at once, (Opens suit case produces tin box of Act 3rd) Phew! I'd as leif myself handle so much dynamite. Bunyan Do you know what that box contains? Dirnn No - but I can guess. I've heard the rumors ^nd the talk - just at present - I don'T want to know nothm' . Bunyan You are wise - but nevertheless an idiot. Dunn You bet I'm wise - Thank Heaven - i ' vg never been sharp enough tc be mixed up in anything like joc. and the deacon - The deaci; has been praying all night and is -'.':ireatcned with nervous "prostration" this morning ■- I guess I'll go., (Knock on door L.) Bunyan Eh? ¥hat is it? Harry Unlock this door - I want to leave here. Bunyan You'll y/a'it till I get ready. Harry You'll unlock it now - or I'll break it clo\'/n. (Bunjran iiaifcK takes off coat quickly^ throws it over tin box on table.) Bunyan (To Dunn, speaking rapidly) Not a word to him about this. Dunn '^'Ih.a.t do you take me for? (Bunyan unlocks door L. Harry re- enters) 6~-B Harjfy I am going to arrange for the immediaue removal of Mr. Langdoi and his daughter from this house. Bunyan The sooner the "better - are you going Dunn? Let me see you ^etjtiemen out. (Ushers them out door R.U.E at tackj they exeu Bunyan following as he exits, Elarxche climbs through ■'•■rindow at hack L. flings Bunyan' s coat off "box. hesitates is about to try and climb through vrindow, when Bunyan re-enters, he sees her with box. ) Bunyan AhaJ (Turns and locks door R.U,E. as he does so, Blanche flings box through door L. ) Blanche (Screams) Marion! Mario:^! (Closing door L. and locking it as Bunyan rushes over, they struggle for the key, Blanche has possession of it and throws it out k the window upper L. ) Bujjyan YouK little devil! Do you v^ant me to murder you? Blanche Oh I'm not afraid of you - you big coward - although you're clever in fighting women. Bunyan ?/hy have you done thi s thing? Blanche To square myself with the man I love. Bunyan Jack Rodney - eh. Blanche Yes - we just had a quarrel and broke off with each other. I thought he was cruel to 7/arion and her father - and he though! I was insympathy with the crooks and v;e had a row. Bunyan Oh you had a rov/ - eh. Blanche And I wanted t-^ shov/ jack I was v/illing to help him in his war against vermin like you - and I took the box - and there you are - Bunyan Yes - and can you tell what's going t: happen to you nov/? Blanche T^To - but I know v.'hat will happen to you if you lay a finger on Re^Sfield Doe's daughter. Bunyan Rodney loves you for your pretty fa'je - Beauty is precious to every woman - I'm going to spoil your beauty ^ my lady. Do you knov/ what is in this jar? (Takes down jar from shelf) The oil of white Vitriol otherv/ise- Sulphuric Acid, Have you ever seen a face burned v/ith sulphuric acid - Blanche . The hideous and hellish scars it leaves would turn yenus xdnti a gargoyle. (Pouring out acid in glas^) Blanche And yovjc would attempt thss outrage on me? ^.Other side of table) Bunyan Attempt with me - means to succeed., Blanche (Screams) Marion! ITarion! Felp mei Kelp raei Bunyan She' can't - you've locked her in. ITow take your last look at pretty blanche in that mirror (Raises goblet) (Knock on door) 7-B Blanche ^^L 1??°°? repeated loader, Bunyan lays dovm goblet on table with thteatening gesture to Blanche who is about to speak lays his finder on his lips to command silence , knock again) Jack (Outside) It's no use Bunyan to play possum ■■- I knov/ you are there -- and I'm coming in. (Bunya^i goes up to shelf looks for and picks up knife, as he turns back, Blanche quickly empties Goblet and quickly refills it from water-TDitcher on table. Bunyan goes over to door R.U.E. hesitates^- returns tc Blanche) Bunyan (^^hispers) You speak when he knocks again! (Menacing her with knife) jack (Outside) Are you going to keep me here all day? Blanche (Terrified by knife) Is that you jack? Jack (outside) Hello Blanche - you here yet? Blanche Yes. Jack (Outside) js bunyan there? Blanche (Pausea N--no--no, Jack (Outside) Heis somewhere about the building - let me in' There Is no escape for him. Deacon Dubey has been chattering and I 'fee got Bunyan this time with the goods. Bunyan (Suppressed) Ah,- Jack (Outside) Open the door - Blanche ■■ quicklyi Bunyan (Prompts Blanche menacing her with knife) in a minute. Blanche (Stammers) In a minute. Bunyan (Quickly picks up goblet from table, whispers) Unlock the door I Blanche Wlaat are you going to do? Bunyan Do as I tell you . (Blanche unlocks the door) (jack enters) (Bunyan throws the goblet of liquid full in Jack-s face rack utters a cry, claps hands to eyes) Jack AhJ What are you trying to do ^ blind me? Bunyan Your sweetheart did it. You are blinded forever. (Laughs) Ha' Ha Hal Take your hands away] Take them away} I v^ant to see the acid do it's work. (Advances on Jack, 7;ho suddenly straightens up as Bunyan gets within reaching distance and kn'^'cks Bunyan down) Bunyan On ground)hatI You can see? Jack Yes - Mck Bunyan - I can see,. Bunyan But the acid,, Blanche I -threv; that out - you beait and put water in it^s place Jack he was going to burn me with it. 8-B Jack ^^/hat? (Bunyan rises, retreats down L.) Blanche Hit him again 9 JackJ Hit him ag-in. (Enter Dunn and Harry R.U.E. ) Jack Bunyan your course is run. Produce tliat "box, Du^bey sent you hy Dunn. Blanche He can't do it jack. I threw it into rarion^s room and locked the door. Jack Dunn hreak open that door v/hile I make sure of this fellow. (Dunn and Harry hurst open door L. exeunt, as Jack seizes Bunyan from behind as Bunyan tries t^ exit R.U.E. ) Bunyan Dunn you - this is v/here I get you! (Turns on Jack with knife) I misses you last night, hut now - (They struggle, jack gets Bunyan do^ra on knees in front of him and forces the knife into Bunyants breast, Bunyan utters a groan - falls dead R-C) (Marion, Harry, Dunn enter L.) Jack Quick the box. JCarion I have destroyed it i s contents beyond recognition - &, Rodney, I had to save my father. Jack HunQ)h.' So the Eye of the Government has failed^ and I've wasted my time here. Blanche Don't say "wasted" Jackl Say - please give me back that ring, won't you? (He takes her to his breast) CURTAOT Jack Blanche Dunn ICarion Harry Bunyan LEJa'|2