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TALKED ABOUT! 
 
 A COMEDY DRAMA 
 
 IN 
 
 FOUR ACTS 
 
 BY 
 
 CHARLES E. A^^RIG^HT. 
 
 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 
 
 COPYRIGHT SECURED BY THE AUTHOR. 
 
 ViCKSBURii Printing and Publishing Company, 
 
 VICKSBURG, MISS. ; 
 
 December, 1895. 
 

 Knterea acroidiiis to Act of C'onsrri-ss, in the yi';n- iSyj, 
 
 l-.y CHARLES K. \VKI(;i[r. 
 
 In the Office of the Librarian of Conorcss, ul. Wuslnn-lon, D. C 
 
 TMP92-007634 
 
CHARACTERS OF THE PLAY. 
 
 Robert Connery, A genilemav of elegaiif leisiive and 
 ample means. 
 
 Wm. Reyburn. a retired actor. Cannery's Protege. 
 
 George Dilworthy, A Club man. 
 
 Rev. .Ia.m Sones. 
 
 DuDLY Dawson, A maiter, 
 
 Mrs. Rextwine. 
 
 Miss Sue Rentwise, her daughter. 
 
 Miss Cynthia Connery. 
 
 Molly McGraw, A waitress. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 ACT J.— .SCENE I. 
 
 A had,- street in St. Louis. ''Furnished lioomv to Let" 
 is seen ov n house. Discovered : George Dilworthy and Wrn. 
 Reyburn engaged iv conversation vdrile persons pass. 
 
 Dilworthy. Wlierc is (N)iinei\v : I lia\e not seen liini to- 
 day ? 
 
 Reyburn. Xor luive 1, more\^ the pity, \'oy my tliroat is 
 pai'ched more than old Fal staff's. 
 
 Dilworthy. (^oniiery throws many a good dollar away 
 on .you, Billy : what is the liold you have on him r 
 
 Reyburn. Ah, Mr. (^eorge, there is a divinity that shapes 
 our ends and so forth, and there is an afhnity that hrings 
 gentlemen together. 
 
 Dilworthy. Rot; you have served Connery in jtutting 
 him in possession of information about the ajjproachable 
 and unapproachable of the ladies, or rather tlie women, of 
 3'our profession. 
 
 Reyburn. That is neither here nor there, as the great 
 Bard says, but I catch the lay of Mr. Connery's feelings and 
 talk, and make it a point to interest and amuse him, for base 
 ingratitude has no })laee in my bosom. \_Strikes his breast. 
 
 \_3Lss Rentwine and Miss Connery cross the stage, the former 
 bowing to Dilworthy. 
 
 Dihuorthy. By Jingo ; she's a higher stepper ; grace and 
 beauty vie with each other in her make-up. That's Con- 
 nery's sister with her, isn't it Billy? 
 
 Reyburn. 1 have not as much acquaintance with his 
 family and relatives, as with Mr. Connery, but I know that 
 is Miss Connery. She does not somehow appreciate your 
 humble servant, so to speak. 
 
 Dilworthy. Billy, they are in a strange locality. And 
 Miss Rentwine, queen as she is, cannot shun this place too 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 much. Billj, do you think she knows how tearfully beauti- 
 ful she is? I would risk an arm to get her smiles. Do you 
 think she knows she is pretty? 
 
 Eeybarn. As to that, not to he too particular, I don't 
 think she lays awake at uight, because of her ignorance of 
 her own charms. All the pretty ones have mirrors and are 
 fond of looking in them. 
 
 DUworthy. Bob is making love to her, or pretending to 
 
 \)L\ isn't he ? 
 
 Beyhurn. Oh, no. It is Cousin Sue and Cousin Bob, 
 between them, and they are distantly related. 
 
 Dlbcortliy. Just enough related for "Cousin Bob" to be 
 very dangerous. Bob Connery doesn't think there is a 
 woman worth his heart, and he does think ever}' woman will 
 vield when the right man makes hot love to her. I know 
 Mr. Robert Connery pretty well, and he has no scruples 
 wliere lovely woman is concerned. 
 
 Reybarii. Mr. George, as we used to say on the stage, 
 vou spoke for another, but you spoke your part well. If 1 
 had been called upon to speak of you, 1 would have said just 
 wliat you said ot Mr. Connery. Bob, you are all wrong 
 al)Out Miss Sue; the Rev. Jam Sones is paying the devoted 
 to her, and old Mrs. Rentwme is favorable to his suit, and 
 Miss Sue loves her mother with all heart and soul. 
 
 DUworthy. Bob doesn't care for all that, and neither 
 would I. By jingo, I believe I will call on her. 
 
 Bci/burn. No use ; she and Miss Connery are working 
 the charity fad, nursing the poor sick, and all that sort of 
 thing. That's what they are doing in this part of to^vn. 
 
 DUicorfhy. Let's go to the club. I guess Connery and a 
 lot of them are there. 
 
 [Exeunt. 
 
 SCEXE II, 
 
 3Irs. Bent wine's parlor vAth door which may be opened into 
 the dining-room. Enter Mrs. Bentivine, Miss Bentivine and 
 Miss Connery. 
 
 Miss Bent wine. Oh, mother, we have had such a jaunt. 
 We have been in the queerest old streets, and the people 
 gazed at ns, as if we were lost. Didn't they Cyn ? 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Jilh-s Connery. [In very long draidiny manner of speech.'] 
 
 Yes, Mrs. Rentwine, and I am sure Bro. Robert would 
 scold me, if he knew where we went, for he is so rono-h to 
 me. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. But Robert couldn't scohl you two for 
 going on your errand of mercy. How is the poor sick girl 't 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, mother, she can't last much longer. 
 Her cheeks are flushed with fever, but she says she is grow- 
 ing weaker every day. She speaks of her mother, but when 
 we ask for her, she says we may never, never see her. 
 
 Miss Connery. There is some mystery about the poor 
 creature, for while she is so glad to see us, she will never 
 take a cent of money. She told me her mother does not 
 believe in angels, but said if there were any, "Sue Rentwine 
 is one." 
 
 3Ii8s Rentwine. Cyn, she meant .vou. 
 
 [Enter Rec. Jmii >S(>nes. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Mr. Sones we are so glad to see you. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Mr. Sones, how do you do. 
 
 Miss Connery. Good morning, Mr, Sones. 
 
 Rei\ Sones. Ladies, the pleasure is mine, I assure yow. 
 I have striven for God's blessings and many are showered on 
 me. Miss Connery I hear of your good works, and _you too, 
 Miss Sue. Ah, ah Mrs. Rentwine, you have a daughter, a 
 daughter, the poor and heavy-laden love, and one you should 
 cherish and comfort in the good way she is going. 
 
 Miss Connery. [Aside.] He calls me Miss Connery and 
 her. Miss Sue. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. My daughter is my treasure : if her 
 brother was only like her, it seems to me T would have noth- 
 ing else to wish for. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, yon flatterers. Don't you know 
 society says I am one of the wildest girls in town, and Avhen 
 Cousin Bob and I get togetlier, we have such romps, and 
 play such tricks, as would shock you good people. Cyn is 
 the really good girl and Cousin Bob treats her just as mean 
 as he can. 
 
 Rev. Sones. Oh, ah, \i\'. Connery is a club man, and 
 rather, well rather wild. He is rich, you know, l)ut still ah. 
 r think, ah, that he is not so bad, so very bad, after all. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Indeed Cousin Bob is not bad at all. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 lie likes fuu and hates sliaiiis, and so do I. lie drove me out 
 yesterday and we had such a good time until he turned the 
 huggy t)ver. Oh, it was too funny the way we were dumped 
 out. 1 know he was liurt, luit lie would not acknowledge it. 
 
 Jlrs. Rentwine. And that ends your rides with (^\:)usin 
 Boh, as von call him. Two wild people together won't (h» 
 well. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, mother, you are too hard on Cousin 
 l>(^h. He is just as charital)le as he can lie ; isn't he C}^! ? 
 We are going to the Luxury CMub now to get him to raise us 
 some morjey tor the sick and poor, and lie will put his name 
 down and make the others give also. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. But, my child, Mr. vSones came to see 
 you, and Gyn, and you mustn't run oft'. 
 
 3Iiss Renticine. We will make him be our escort: it is 
 visitors' day at the clul), and all are welcome. 
 
 Rcc. Sones. But my dear Mis^ Rentwine, 1 could never, 
 ah, you know, think of going to the cluh. That you know, 
 well you know. 
 
 J//XV Omncry. W^liy, not, Mr. Sones ; we are going for 
 sweet charity's sake. And then Sue really Avants you, don't 
 you 8ue ? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Ijust won't forgivt,' him, if he <loesn"t 
 go. Th.ere now. 
 
 Mrs. Rentirine. Oh, yes, Mr. Sones, let us go with them : 
 tiiey Avill have their way. 
 
 Rer. Sones. Ah well. I sup]iose we must. 
 
 [ They go out. 
 
 SCENE III. 
 
 THU LUXURY CLUB. 
 
 Robert Connery, Dilicorthy and Reybnrn are there, with 
 Du'lly Dawson, the chib waiter. Connery with heindeiged arm 
 uiith the coat sleeve hanging, and black patches of court plaster on 
 the side of his head. He is lazily reclining, trying to read a 
 neiDspaper, Lil worthy and Reylrwurn are pleiying cards, with two 
 piles of silrer, one near each /dayer. Connery is near enough to 
 reach Dilworthy's pile. 
 
 Connery. Boy, how is that old Bourl)on ? 
 [Connery talks lovd,fast and aggressive, in direct contrast to his 
 sister. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Dudly Dawson. Most delicious, sab, most delicious. 
 
 Coimery. 'Tis, sir? How do you know? Do you 
 drink the club liquors? Tboiigbt so, wben I saw you out on 
 your bike yesterday. He can ride a bike, Dilwortby. Rides 
 it straddle until he tumbles oft'. Ha, ha. 
 
 Dilworthy. Does he ? That's so, Dawson ! 
 
 Connery. If the Bourbon is so fine, bring me a brandy 
 and soda. Lively, boy. Oh, this arm. Confound a broken 
 arm. 
 
 Reyburn. How was it, Mr. Robert, you were so broke 
 up and Miss Rentwine escaped being hurt at all ? 
 
 Connery. Why I fell on the street as the buggy turned 
 over, and she fell on me. And the witch never even thanked 
 me for being a cushion for her precious body, but laughed at 
 me for yelling out in pain. I'll get even with pretty cousin 
 Sue ; pretty third cousin Sue. Third cousin, do you hear, 
 Dilworthy? 
 
 \^Waiter hands brandy and soda, and Connery drinks. As 
 waiter starts off, he takes a piece of silver off Dilworthy' ^ 
 jrile and throws to the waiter, loho misses catching it. 
 
 [Connery continues.'] Hey, Dudly, you wouldn't make a 
 good short stop. But I know what you were doing, you 
 cunning rascal, 3'ou let it roll on the floor so it would call 
 attention to tipping. Time wasted on these two, bet your 
 life, boy. Oh, oh, these dog gone pains. 
 
 [Twists his body as if in pain. 
 Reyburn. That's good, real good, Mr. Robert, better 
 than some I've heard on the stage. 
 
 Dilworthy. Nonsense; nothing but cheek. Throws my 
 money to Dawson, and guys me for not giving more. 
 
 Connery. Cigarette, boy. Dawson a cigarette. Now 
 Dudly, now Dudly, be quick. 
 
 [Takes cigarette from waiter aud lights it. 
 
 Dilworthy. Bob, you said you would get even with the 
 pretty cousin, the pretty third cousin; how, my dear Bob, 
 will you do it ? 
 
 Connery. Oh, like I do with all of them, make love to 
 them, and then, and then make love to another, or or, — 
 vishus (vichy) water, boy. Lord, I'm burning up. 
 
10 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Dilworthy. [Aside.] Pity yon doirt, then 1 would take 
 care of the pretty cousin, the pretty third cousin. 
 
 [Waiter ha7ids Connery vichy water. He drinks and as waiter 
 walks of vnth the glass, Connery throws another piece of 
 Dihvorihy's silcer at him, which he fails to catch 
 
 Connery. Boy, no more silver for you, no more tips. If 
 your bike breaks, you'l have to walk, for you'l have no 
 money to repair it. Better for you. You're a pretty thing on 
 a bike. Reverend Brother Jam Sones would look better on 
 a bike than you. And he is courting Sue, pretty cousin Sue. 
 If I ever catch him on a bike, I'll turnble him off and break 
 his reverend neck. My pretty third cousin Sue. 
 
 Dawson. Oh Mister Connery, don't never mind me not 
 catching the tips. I'll get 'em. Ha, ha, ha. Wishes more 
 of them would chuck money at me. 
 
 Connery. Go long boy, go way now ; get your bike. 
 
 Dilworthy. Bob, by Jingo, you make free with my 
 money. Why don't you take Reyburn's ; then you'd have 
 to replace it ? 
 
 Ecybiirn. Yes, Mr. Robert, help yourself, as Prince Hal 
 said to Poins. 
 
 Connery. Now Billy, now Billy ; let's keep our cash, of 
 at least you keep yours, for you'll negotiate no more tem- 
 porary loans with me. Better say they're eternal loans, 
 Billy"? Hadn't we? 
 [Reybarn arises and bows to Connery in stage style, and they all 
 
 laugh. 
 
 Beybwrn. So true you are to nature, Mr. Robert; so 
 true, you'd make a great actor. Great actors are generous, 
 Mr. Robert. 
 
 Dilworthy. A good joke; you wont give Reyburn 
 money, hey. Why Bob, he'd starve in a week. If he misses 
 you for a few hours, he goes crazy like some of them in the 
 plays, and if he doesn't see you every day, he loses flesh. 
 Ha, ha, ha. 
 
 Connery. Not another cent, not a cent; hear that 
 Billy. Why, I'ni all broke up. See my arm. Dudly, 
 Dudly, Dawson. Boy, cigar, cigar, boy. [Dilworthy mores 
 his silcer (jut of Conner ys reach.] Never mind, never mind, 
 Dil ; not another cent to the boy ; let him ride his bike for 
 
Tx\LKED ABOUT. 11 
 
 a living. He couldn't ride a horse. That thing ride a horse ! 
 [ Waiter hands him. a cigar, mhich he lights and puffs at vigor- 
 ously. 
 
 Reybiirn. Speaking of horses, Mr.. Robert, have you 
 seen the entries for the races to-morrow ? 
 
 Connery. Billy, Billy, for the Lord's sake, what do you 
 want to know the entries for? You ask every day, every 
 day, have I seen the entries ? and you have never bet a cent 
 since I had the honor of your acquaintance. 
 
 Reyhurn. If I beat Mr. Dilworthy, I might bet to-mor- 
 row. I saw Barber taking* out a tine bunch of horses. 
 
 Connery. Goodness gracious, goodness gracious, Billy. 
 Bo you think horses grow on trees like grapes? A bunch 
 of horses, indeed. Brandy and soda, boy ; brand}' and soda. 
 \_To the waiter?^ Have I had any brandy and soda? 
 
 Dawson. Yes, sir, not fifteen minutes ago. 
 
 Connery. I'll take no chances: give me brandy and 
 soda. [Drm/t.s\] 
 
 Reybarn. Well, Mr. Robert, if not a bunch of horses, 
 then what? 
 
 Connery. Why a string of horses, gump. 
 
 Reybiirn. Then, the}^ don't grow on trees. That's so. 
 They must catch them as they do fish, and string them. 
 
 [Dihnorthy laughs heartily and. Dcurson suppresses a laugh. 
 
 Connery. That'll do, Billy ; that'll do. Smart old boy, 
 I'll divide my purse with you again. It's trash, you know. 
 That's what your old boss play-writer called it, or rather the 
 money in it. I'll let you starve now, you old fraud. When 
 you starve, Billy, I'll chip in for your box ; nothing but a 
 box, Billy. You give me too many of your old stage remin- 
 iscences, you know, Billy. 
 
 [^The door bell rings and Dawson runs oat and back and says : 
 
 Dawson. Lot er ladies and that preacher, that revival 
 fellow runnin* the meeting at Oak Grove. The ladies asked 
 for you. Shall I show them in, or will you go to the recep- 
 tion room and see them. 
 
 Connery. Show them in : I don't want to be bored and 
 
12 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 I'll make l)il and Billy listen at their chatter. Women 
 always chatter at a club, especially young women, 
 
 [Dawson retires and returns. 
 [Enter Rev. Jam Sones, 3Irs. Mentwme, Miss Rentioine and Miss 
 Connery. Cannery rises as if in pain. 
 
 Cannery. Cousin Sue, Mrs. Rentwine, I'm glad indeed 
 to see you. Your interest in me touches me. How'dy Cyn. 
 ,And Mr. Sones, glad you countenance and remember a poor 
 worldly man in sorrow — not exactly in sackcloth and ashes, 
 but I was in the dirt and rocks yesterday, eh, Cousin Sue? 
 Ladies, permit me, Mr. Dil worthy, Mr. Keyburn, the distin- 
 guished actor. Gentlemen, Mrs. Rentwine, Miss lientwine, 
 my sister. 
 
 [ T'hey all baw to each other. 
 Miss Connery. Brother, how are your hnrts? 
 
 [ t<he inalks np to him and takes his ivounded. arm. 
 Cannery. Oh, oh! Cyn, for God's sake; do you want 
 to break it again. [Bell rings.'] 
 
 [Aside.] Oh, d — m it, Dawson, take 'em to the other room. 
 [ Dawson rushes out and returns^ 
 Beg all your pardons, Init Cyn is so rough. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Cousin Bob, let me see. Sit down. [He 
 takes his scat and she very gently puts his arm in an easy posi- 
 tion.] Now, isn't that better? Are you hurt anywhere else? 
 
 Connery. All over, all over. Cousin Sue. My legs are 
 black and blue with bruises. Have yon examined your legs 
 to see if they are black and blue. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Mr. Connery I Mr. Robert Connery, I 
 am shocked that you should, you should ask such a ques- 
 tion. Does it ever occur to you to respect ladies ? 
 
 Connery. Dear Madam, forgive a fellow in pain. I 
 didn't mean to insinuate that ladies have legs. As they 
 walk and run, I took it for granted. And when they talk 
 of handsome form and grace, I suppose well proportioned 
 and symmetrical lower limbs, let me call them, must play an 
 important part. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Ha, ha. Cousin Bob, you horrified them. 
 But thank you, I am not hurt in the least; and I am so 
 sorry you are, for we can have no fun. 
 
 Sones. It seems we are forgetting our errand. Miss 
 Sue, we did not come here, if you'll pardon me, to have fun. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 13 
 
 Dilworthy. We are delighted to see the ladies and you 
 sir, for whatever cause we may attribute tlie pleasure. 
 
 807168. Ah, my good sir, tiie ladies, as usual, are on an 
 errand of mercy. 
 
 Connery. Come to see me; thought so. But I'll be all 
 right in a day or two now, Dawson, Dudly. Boy, what is 
 your name, Dawson Duclly, or Dudl}" Dawson ? Refreshments 
 for the ladies, and you know for me \_winks at the ivaiter.~\ 
 Dil, Billy, what'll you have ? Of course Mr. Sones takes a 
 little wine for the stomach's sake. Boy, bring in wine and 
 and — whatever we all want. 
 
 [Dawson goes to all the ladies, and appears to inquire what they 
 want, and the gentlemen, and goes out. 
 
 Sones. I rarely drink, but they are so kind, and just a 
 little wine will not be objectionable. 
 
 Reyhurn. Certainly not, sir. Our great bard took a 
 little and often wrote of the drink fit for the Gods. 
 
 \_Dawson returns with the refreshments and they all drink, 
 
 Connery. Parson Sones, how's your meetings. As large 
 as ever, and as much crying and enthusiasm and so on ? 
 How's the rake oft? That's the principal thing, you know ? 
 
 Miss Connery. The what. Brother ? 
 
 Connery. The rake off. The receipts in the plates, you 
 know ? 
 
 Sones. I thank the Giver of all good, our collections for 
 the missions, for charity, for the Bible fund, and even for our 
 poor salaries, have been all we could wish. 
 
 Connery. I should say so. Do you hear that Cyn ? 
 That's the kind ot a truly good man for you. A good collec- 
 tor makes a good provider, and Reverend Mr. Sones can 
 draw the ducats, when he uses his eloquence and arts of per- 
 suasion. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Tliere you go again, Mr. Connery, say- 
 ing things that had best be not said. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. To keep yon from saying mischievous 
 things lace my shoe. 
 
 [Puts her foot on his chair. He tries to tie her shoe, but cannot do 
 so icith one hand. 
 
 Connery. Help Dil, help Dil. Here's a pretty shoe on 
 a pretty foot ; but I can't tie this string. 
 
14 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Dilworthy. Allow me. [iZe aids and the shoe siring is 
 tied. 
 
 Miss Gonnery. Sue, you should be careful. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine.. I'll scold her, when we get home. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Mj shoe was ready to fall oiF. 
 
 Connery. jSTonseiise ; isn't she my cousin ? 
 
 Miss Country. But Mr. Dilworthy is almost an entire 
 stranger. 
 
 Regburn. But he is good enough to tie her shoe. 
 
 Connery. Good for you, Billy I What'll you take ? 
 
 Reybani. Consult your own excellent taste, Mr. Robert. 
 
 Connery. Dawson Dudly, or Dudly Dawson, \iiods at 
 Dawson^ the same, the same mj^ boy, and let it come double. 
 
 Sones. Really, ladies, we must go. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh cousin Bob, we came here begging, 
 and we have not even told you what you must do for us, you 
 poor old cripple cousin. 
 
 Connery. Go to Mr. Reyburn ; Billy says great actors 
 are always generous. 
 
 3iiss Rentwine. Yes, Mr. Reyburn, we will go to you, 
 and we know you will aid our sick and helpless, and make 
 every member of the club do likewise. Here's our list. 
 Put down your name and then cousin Bob's and put oppo- 
 site each a goodly sum. [Hands him a paper and pencil. 
 
 Reyburn. Your wishes are commands. Miss Rentwine, 
 and ril set the pace for them. 
 
 Connery. [Aside to Reyburn.] Go slow you sly dog ; 
 my funds are low. But don't forget Dil. 
 
 Miss Connery. That's a dear, good, generous actor. Sue 
 we are so fortunate in getting him to aid our cause. 
 
 [Reyburn, who has been writing on the paper, reads: 
 
 "Wm. Reyburn, five dollars." 
 
 Connery. [Aside.] You rascal. 
 
 [Reyburn continues reading. 
 
 Mr. Robert Connery, twenty dollars. 
 Connery. [AsvV/e.] Oh I'll settle with you, you'll never 
 get another cent from me. 
 
 [Reyburn continues reading. 
 
 Mr. George Dilworthy, ten dollars. 
 Connery. Good, Billy, very good. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 15 
 
 Dilworthy. Well I never saw such clieek, but if Miss 
 Reutwine will accept my poor otiei'ing for her to dispense 
 to the sick and sutiering, I shall be more than comforted. 
 
 [Bey burn reads again. 
 
 Rev. Jam Sones, twenty-tive dollars. 
 
 [All except Sones laugh a hearty approval, and he turns and 
 twists. 
 
 Sones. But my dear sir, oh, you know, I — that is, 1 am 
 giving all I can to charity. 
 
 Miss lientwine. But dear Mr. 8ones, you must not ob- 
 ject. If you do the others might follow your bad example, 
 and that would never do. 
 
 Connery. Brother Sones, I am surprised at you ; why 
 you're blessed with two good rake offs a day. 
 
 3Trs. Rentwine. Mr, Connery, will you oblige me in 
 future by saying collections. 
 
 Miss Connery. Yes, brother, do. 
 
 Soties. Now really we must be going. 
 
 Reyburn. Miss Rentwine, leave the list with me, and I 
 will make every member of the club give as liberally as I 
 have done. 
 
 Connery. (Aside.) The d — n scoundrel. T will stop his 
 allowance and kick him in the bargain. 
 
 Miss Rentivine. You are so good; yon've proved that 
 actors are generous. 
 
 [ The visitors all rise as if preparing to leave. 
 
 Dilworthy. Miss Rentwine may I cultivate an acquaint- 
 ance so auspiciously begun. May I call on you at your 
 home. 
 
 Miss Rentvnne. Mr. Connery, you must bring your 
 friends to our house party next week. Your good sister is 
 to help us. Mr. Reyburn, you and Mr. Dilworthy are espe- 
 cial 1}' invited and ui-ged to come. 
 
 [Both the gentleynen bow low and accept the invitation. 
 Miss Rentwine. The success of the affair is assured. 
 Connery. l^ot so fast to leave us. Cyn, you shall play 
 for her, and cousin Sue shall sing for us. 
 
 [Miss Connery jdays the piano, or guitar, and Miss Rentwine 
 sings a song of her own selection. 
 
16 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Now cousin Bob, yon shall sing too. 
 
 All. Yes, yes, that he nuist. 
 
 Connery. Oh I'm crippled ; but I'll try. 
 
 [Sings. 
 
 The bird that sings is the bird for me, 
 The drinlc that cheers will bide awee, 
 The girl that loves, has a lover true, 
 Can life do more for me and you ? 
 
 Chobus— Tlie world's a great stage they say. 
 
 Each one a different part must play ; 
 Why some sad parts choose, I can't see, 
 Thebright side of life for me. 
 
 II. As the red dawn breaks into day. 
 
 The cheer of hope chases care away; 
 
 Life's sad enough e'en with hope. 
 
 Then why make trouble wi' which to cope. 
 
 Chorus — 
 
 III. Each leaflet waves in sunshine and air, 
 
 A rebuke to those given o'er to care; 
 Each flower dispenses some sweet cheer, 
 All progress, all things make us freer. 
 
 Chorus— 
 
 IV. As old age creeps on apace, 
 
 We weary and falter in the race, 
 
 But the cheering word and hopeful smile 
 
 Never will fail us to beguile. 
 
 Chorus— 
 
 [Curtain. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 17 
 
 ACT XL— SO EXE I. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine's parlor vnth dan'i);:/ room adjoiru'nf/. Dil- 
 irorthy and Reyburn are. seen. 
 
 Dllnvirthy. What new prank is this, Jiillv '^ 
 RcyhiiriK Miss Rentvvine is carried away with the idea 
 of cnring her mother of her care of tramps. Do you know 
 that ever since this liouse party, thej liave heen a great nuis- 
 ance. 
 
 Dilioorthy. Well, why not call the police':' 
 
 Reyburn. Xone ot them will agree to that. That rev- 
 erend fellow says it that was done the vagahonds mignt do 
 something awful — burn the house or gfoniethiug. 
 
 D'dirorthy. But what can we do 't And why were we 
 all to meet liere at this beastly early hour? 
 
 Reyburn. I'll tell you as soon as Mr. Robert comes 
 down, it Molly ever gets him up. Yesterday the old he 
 tramp, who has breakfasted here for six mouths, and taken 
 away enough to last all day, was on hand as usual. He had 
 a slie tramp with him and a young tramp. 
 
 Diiworthy. Well Ell be darned. 
 
 Reyburn. The old he rings the bell with as much assur- 
 ance as that [)reacher, who is courting Miss Sue. Molly 
 says they send back for more sugar for their coffee, butter 
 for their bread, and then wait on the steps for the hot buck- 
 wheat cakes. 
 
 Ddwort/ty. But I can't for my life see how wc can do 
 anything by meeting here before even the tramps are out of 
 bed — or out of wherever they sleep. 
 
 Reyburn. It is this way. 
 [Enter Miss Rentunne and Miss Comiery, (cho s/>eak to the gen- 
 tlemen. 
 
 Mis!< Re/itu'inc. This is so good of you. Won't it be 
 jolly? And you got u]» so soon to oblige Cyn and I. 
 
 Miss Connery. Xot me I am sure, Sue. "1 am only 
 obliging you. I begin to fear this will be cruel to your dear 
 good mother. 
 
 Ddivorthy. I am sure Miss Rentwine can l)e cruel to no 
 one. But I am in the dark as to her purpose. 
 
 Aliss Rentuutie. Thank you. But where is cousin Bob ? 
 And Mr. Sones? Molly is not here either. 
 
18 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Beybitrn. I think I can fetch Mr. Robert, ifvjn have a 
 little brandy. 
 
 Miss Gonnery. Don't give liim a droj). 
 
 31iss Rentwine. There's a decanter in the dining room. 
 
 \_E.i'it Bey barn. 
 
 Dilworthy. Ilcasr enlighten me, hidies, as to yonr pur- 
 pose. 
 
 Miss Rentwhic. \V\' are to phiy tramps, and give mother 
 a lesson in tramps. 
 
 [Enter Molly McGraw. 
 
 Molly McGrdir. Miss tSue, what prank are ye's playin' 
 now ? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Molly, you will soon see. We want to 
 cure mother of her love for tramps, and of feeding them 
 every day. 
 
 31olly. Yis! Ye'll nivor do that. Mrs. Kentwine thinks 
 it her duty, and she's afeerd that if she don't feed all the 
 craychures as comes, she may deny some i-eally in want. 
 Sure, we's all got used to hei" ways, and tin- tramps, too, for 
 the matter of that. 
 
 [Eiifcr Cannery and Reybirr)i. 
 Connen/. You're a daisy. Cousin Sue. I don't feel like 
 I'd slept an hour. [Rubs //is eyex and ycurns.'] 
 
 Miss Rcniirinc. Cousin Bob, you told me tiiat }<>u'd be 
 delio'hted to hel]i me, and I thought you took an interest in 
 the joke. 
 
 Connery. Oh, I do: it's too Jolly for anything. But 
 where is that dear preacher lover of yours ^ Ti'ot him in 
 and let Billy drill him in his ]>art, or he'll give the whole 
 snap away by the time the tirst tramp rings for his break- 
 fast ; and we are to be a whole tamily of ti-am})S. Molly, 
 dear, fetch the i-everend guy, and if he won't come lead him 
 in by the ear. He's a nice lover, ain't he. Cousin Sue, for a 
 wild, mad prank like you. Why, he's at hi-^ morning devo- 
 tions, and here you are plotting against the best woman in 
 the world. Wish she was my mother-in-law so I could ju-o- 
 tect her from her wicked daughter. 
 
 Miss Renlioine. Cousin Bob, if you are going to talk 
 and act in that way, I won't go ahead with the play. You 
 know we are to be actors. 
 
 Connery. (^o ahead, go ahead, on with the fun. Molly, 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 19 
 
 dear, why stand tlieo here idle? The preaeher ! briiio- tlie 
 preacher I Billy, are yon ready? 
 
 Miss Connery. Brothei-, ])lease don't he so i-oiigh. Mi\ 
 Dilworthy is staring at yoii. And yon'll shock Mr. Sones, 1 
 Icnow 3'on will. 
 
 Dilwort/iy. oh, 1 know yonr hrothei-. 
 
 Reybarn. Mr. Robert, you know yon told me to have 
 things as Miss Rentvvine wants tlieni. I have all the tramp 
 costnmes, w^igs, paints, etc, l)nt we've no time to lose and we 
 must have a dress, or rather, a rag rehearsal, before Mrs. 
 Rentwine gets down : and the preacdier and Moll}' are to 
 pretend to believe we :ii-c real tramps. That's the lady's 
 game. Oh, what a star she'd make on the stage. 
 
 DiltoortJuj. Well, I'll l)e : and am I to di-ess in rags 
 
 and be a tramp. 
 
 Connery. [Laughing.'] Why, Dil, you're to be the boss 
 bad tramp and cut up rough, wlien Mrs. Rentwine threatens 
 to call the police. And I'm to do the hungry ti'amp ; and 
 Billy is to give us all tlie cue. 
 
 \_LJtifrr Molly 3I('(Troir and Rtr. Sones 
 
 Sones. Really, ah, really, I must deeline to go further 
 in this. It is wi-ong to treat dear Mrs. Rentwine so shabby, 
 you know. 
 
 Connery. Cousin Sue, what did I tell yon V Put tlie 
 pressure on the dear, good preaeher, or the plot fails instead 
 of thickens. [Miss Rentwine fa.l'es Sones by tlie iiand and. 
 laughingly pleads vnth him. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Mr. Sones, this is but a bit of fun, and, 
 at the same time, it will teach mother to see to what the 
 tramp business is leading. I'll never forgive you, dear, good 
 Mr. Sones, if you do not help me. 
 
 Connery. If you call him that again in my presence. 
 Cousin Sue, Til throw up my part. 
 
 Sones. Well, it I must, then Miss Rentwine to oblige 
 you, I will. 
 
 Conneyy- All right, Billy, you're manager ; give your 
 orders. 
 
 Miss Connery. l)rother, you are so rude. 
 
 Connei'y. Billy, will you keep order and go ahead 't 
 Cyn, we're all learning to be tramjts. 
 
■20 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Reyhurn. Ladies and gentlenion orders iimst be strict !}■ 
 obeyed. Mr. Soues, as yon seem to he weak-kneed, Til <liiil 
 you tirst. 
 
 Coimcry. Good, good, llnrrah for Uilly 1 
 
 Reybarn. Silenee, sir. Tlie manager ninst not be inter- 
 rupted. 
 
 Coxnery, \_Asidc.~\ Dressed in a little brief antliorily, 
 etc. 
 
 Reybarn. Mr. iSones, yon and Miss MeGraw are simply 
 to act (don t forget the word) just as if yon ])elieve we were 
 all tramps, when w-e force our way into tlie parlor, and wdien 
 Mrs. Rentwine wants to call for help or the police, yon are 
 to pretend to fear that such a course would make us des[)er- 
 ate, and that the better conrse is not to oppose us. 
 
 Sones. I see, sir. [Sighs.'] 
 
 Connery. Cousin Sue, you must keep your eye on him, 
 to see that — 
 
 Reyhurn. [Stamps on the floor and bellows out;] Sdence, 
 sir! Mr. Robert Connery if you interrupt the rehearsal 
 again I'll deduct a week's salary I [All laugh. 
 
 Connery. [Aside.] Good, really good. 
 
 Ddwojihy. [Aside.] Bob, lie'll own you in another 
 week. 
 
 3Iiss Counery. [Ai<ide.] Sue, I'm afraid. Are real the- 
 atre managers so rnde. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. [Aside.] (It's just jolly.) Mr.Rey1)urn, 
 may I ask a question? 
 
 Reybarn. Certainly, miss, l)ut be quick about it. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Can yon really tix us, so mother won't 
 recognize us? 
 
 Reybarn. Miss Rentwine, yon call in question my abil- 
 ity, for the powders of the stage are l)onndless. It teaches, it 
 elevates, it ennobles, and tlie changes wrought in individuals 
 almost surpass belief. On the boards good men play vil- 
 lains, good women play parts to cater to depraved tastes, but 
 never \loes the villain prosper, as is alas I too often the case 
 in real life. Even in the ministry, sometimes the wolf is 
 found in sheep's clothing, and the villains of real life too 
 often trinmph to the end. The stage has ke]it band in 
 hand with progress and civilization. Full of faults and 
 open to criticism, its patrons areas much if not more respon- 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 21 
 
 sil)le, than those who spend their lives on tlie Ijoards, 
 furnishing instruction, amusement, and recreation for the 
 toiling masses and the idle classes. I will metamoi'phose 
 you so that the social circle in whicli yon move would dis- 
 own you, so tliat you'll laugh at 3'ourself, and so that 3'our 
 own mother will not know you. So with you all. I>nt I 
 shall he the tyraut for- a few short fleeting moments. 
 
 3IISS Connery. I'm really frightened. 
 
 Reyburn. Xo cause for that. Silence and ohedieiice. 
 Fall in line. 
 \_All form a I'nii'. lleyhiirn takes off Sones (iiid illis.s McGraw 
 
 to one side and says: 
 
 Reyhiifn. You two are to come in when Miss lientwine 
 is talking to tlie tramps, and your part is to keep up the de- 
 ceptiou. Have the breakfast on the table, but don't allow 
 any one else of the party to be called. 
 
 Sones. \_ Looking appealingly at Jliss JReritirine.'] Very 
 good, sir. 
 
 Reybarn. Let's seel Stand up in the cliairs. [^Miss 
 Rentwine and Mi-^s Connery get up in two chairs quickly. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. What are we now? 
 
 Connery. Queens u}» ! 
 
 Rcyburn. Shut \\\^•. that's the best hand. You're only 
 a Bob. 
 
 Dilworthy. \_Laughing, and looking at the ladies and 
 31oUy.'\ I see a three flush. 
 
 Sones. \_With a groan ^ My dear Miss Rentwine, please 
 permit me to retire. 
 
 Connery. He'll spoil it all. Brandy and soda, Molly. 
 
 Reybarn. Xot on 3'dur life. They'd know him by his 
 breath. 
 
 3Iolly JTcGraw. Sure I'll obey them, as Miss Sue says. 
 No driukin' for the likes of you, sir. 
 
 Reybarn. All must change their voices, of course, and 
 Miss Connery you must stutter horribly if j'ou speak at all, 
 or you will not succeed in deceiving Mrs. Rentwine. Miss 
 Rentwine you must keep near Mr. Sones and keep your eye 
 on him for obvious reasons. We will all now i-etire to our 
 dressing rooms. Here is your wardrobe. Miss Rentwine, 
 and yours. [ Hands two old corn sacks stuffed with odd things, 
 
22 TALKED ABOUT 
 
 one to eadi of the ladies.'] Coine, Mr. Dihvortliy and Mr. Kolt- 
 ert, I'll dress you two in the latest ti'aiii[» rashioii. 
 
 [ All go out e.rrc/)f Soves and Molly. 
 
 Miss Mcdrair. And it's 1 that hclaxes tliey"re o-oin" 
 crazy, so I do. 
 
 Sones. How I regret tliat 1 ever ('(msentcMl to take part. 
 But 1 suppose I must make the best of it. 
 
 Mixs McGraic. And sure its nearly time for Mrs. Kent- 
 wine and the rest of them. I'll bring in tlie breakfast. 
 Bedad, won't it l)e a sight just to see the mistress at break- 
 fast wid the tramps. 
 
 [Exit Mc Grow. 
 
 Sones. \_Soliloquiziv.g.'\ Not another day must pass be- 
 fore I ask her hand. I believe she's more interested in that 
 wild Connery than she shows. After I get her 1 can soon 
 restrain her within the bounds marked out for all godly 
 people. 
 
 \Mite7' Connery, Dihcortliy and Beyhnrn in varied and fearfully 
 ragged tramp dress, nrith dirty trigs and faces daubed so as 
 to precent recognition. 
 
 Regburn. How's this, Mr. Sones? \^In changed coi.ce. 
 
 8on.es. Oh, ah, how you startled me. 
 
 Reyburn. Did, hey ? Take that and that. \_Ru.slieK on 
 Sones uu'th an old broken grass hook and. pretend.s to strike at him. 
 Sones dodges about and cries out and JJilworthy and Connery 
 laugh heartily. 
 
 Sones. Oil, don't ; ali, you make me nervous, you, ah, 
 really you do. 
 
 Reyburn. [In deep and sepulchral tones.'] Then you 
 must be very careful to play your part well. 
 
 [Enter Miss Ren twine and Miss Connery in ragged and dirty 
 dresses, but with faces little disguised and their oion shoes 
 and stockings on. 
 
 Connery. I think that will do for you two. [Laughs.] 
 But I think I've seen you look better. Cousin Sue. 
 
 Miss Rerdwinc. I looked in the glass, and I'm perfectly 
 frightful. 
 
 Miss Connery. I've a good notion to take these rags otf 
 this minute. 
 
 Dilworthy. We have none the advantage of you. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Meybuvn. Nice set, nice set indeed. Miserable rehearsal. 
 All talking- in natural voices and all satisfied with rotten 
 make-up. 
 
 Miss Re lit trine, ^'ou gave us the nuike-ui), sir. 
 
 [Beybunt rushes on the tico ladies, loeiks them over frotii head to 
 feet eind turns them ((round ((nd around (juickly and 
 yonghly. 
 
 lieyburn. Nice shoes and stockings for tramps surely, 
 and faces, oh my God, faces clean enough for sweet girl 
 graduates, 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Oh }»lease, sir, what shall we do? 
 
 Miss Connery. Brotlier, must we ohey tliis man ? 
 
 Connery. Oyii,no nonsense, the thing will soon be over. 
 
 Miss Reiduv'ne. If he will only tell us what to do? 
 
 Reyhuni. Do, do I go put on the tramp shoes 1 gave 
 yon. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. But there are no stockings with tliem : 
 only rags, and we are all rags now. 
 
 Reyburn. I'ut tlieni on with the rag's ; tramps don't 
 wear stockings. And then i)ut tramps' powder on your feet 
 and ankles and on your necks and faces. That is dirt ; dirt 
 on everything. 
 
 Miss Connery. I'll die with disease from the tilth. J 
 know I \\\\\. 
 
 [ Exeunt Miss Cimvery and Miss Rentirine. 
 
 Reyburn. Mr. Kobert, vour name is Slinkv doe ; yours, 
 [<o DiV/ror^Ay/] is Big Ike; mine, Bailroad Bill. We'll call 
 the female tramps anything that comes to mind, and the 
 rougher we treat and hustle them around the more like 
 tramps. Here's your tile, Slinky Joe. Now, there's one 
 thing bothers me. The female tramps smell too good. 
 That'll never do. ^'ou must mention that. Slinky Joe, and 
 give 'em a tramp smell some way. 
 
 Dilu'orthy. Bob, your fellow really thinks he is on the 
 stage, and has us hired at so much a week, with w^alking 
 chances for bad Inisiness. Tie's a peach, he is. 
 
 [Enter Miss Ren.tu:ine and Miss Connery. 
 Miss Rentwine. Now, .sir, are we not good tramps? 
 
24 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Reyburn. Oh, Lordy ! a tramp talkiii' in dat ere sort er 
 way, dontyuciiei" know ? Xo, yer ain't tramps at all. Yer 
 mother wouhl know yon the minnte she laid eyes on yon. I']] 
 see what I can (h). \_Takes paint and daubs the/r faces. Gio.es 
 Miss Jien.tinine a dirty, broken pair of black goggles. Ties an old 
 bine rag half ore r Miss Connery's face, concealing one eye. Takes 
 black, dirty n'ater and marks their Jace and neck. 
 
 Miss Conncry. May heaven protect me. 
 
 31iss Rent/nine. Ugh! Ugh I How nasty I feel, and I 
 know I'm a fright. 
 
 Reyliiini. \_Grcd)S their hands and cries alond.'] Well, 
 I'm blessed if here ain't tramps with diamond and tnrcjnoise 
 rings on and tine jewels. Tramps mnst l)e rich these days. 
 \_ Snatches off the rings and rubs the hands and, arms with dirt 
 and paint. 
 
 Miss Rentnnne. Do yonr worst, sir. 
 
 Miss Co)inery. Oh,])rother ! 
 
 Connery. Oh bother, Cyn ! look at me and I'm not 
 kicking. If I did kick, I wonld have nothing on, for these 
 rags would not stand a g(jod healtliy kick. 
 
 Reyluirn. Oh, I like to have forgotten. [^Walks up and 
 adiispcrs in Connery's ear. 
 
 Connery. All riglit, all right. Here goes. Cyn, onr 
 good master here says yow ladies (h)n't smell like trani[)s, and 
 he rocoinniends a lotion of onion jnice, axle grease, lim- 
 bnrger cheese and assatVetida. Here's a vial of the mixtnre ; 
 tram}) perfnme for you. You have no handkerchiefs, but 
 put a little oil your, well on your rags. \_Hol<ls a Idtle bottle 
 to them, to smell. 
 
 Miss Connery. Oh m^-, this is terrible. 
 
 Miss Rentioine. This horrid stutf w^ill make us sick. 
 
 Reyburn. Oh, no mam, tramps enjoy the liest health 
 and their ap[)etite is the kixwy of epicures. 
 
 [Sprinkler ((■ little of the lotion, on their rags. They hold their 
 noses and sneeze. .Enter Molly McGraw, u)ho holds up her 
 hands in horror and says. 
 
 McGraw. Sure you'd sicken anyone, so you would. 
 But the mistress will soon be in. \ hear her stiri-ing in her 
 room. 
 
 Reyburn. You i-usli in breakfast and -we'll go out. 
 When she comes in, we'll ring the bell. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 25 
 
 McG-raiu. AW right, sir. [.4// //o out except Sort.es, and 
 Moll)/ brings in breakfast. 
 
 [Enter Mrs. Reiitivine, ivho says : 
 
 Mrs. Rentioine. Good morning, Mr. Sanes. You are up 
 early; but you did not keep late hours last night like the 
 young people. 
 
 Sones. No nia'm; I'm feeling well, I thank you. 
 Mr.<. Eentiuine. Have you seen Sue this mornino-; or 
 has she come down ':" "^ ' 
 
 [Sones squirms and says : 
 
 Sones. Weil, oh, oh, ah well ma'm, you should know 
 whorher your daughter has made her toilet. 
 
 [Enter McGraw bearing some of the breakfast. 
 
 Mrs. Reiitidne. Molly are any of the guests np? Pos- 
 sil)ly breakfast is too early tor them. 
 
 3R'Grair. Yes, ma'm, some of tliem is sound asleep this 
 blessed minute. 
 
 [Bell rings violently and Molly goes to the door. 
 Mrs. Reiitirine. Who can that l)e so early? 
 
 [Enter Molly who says: 
 McGrair. It's de same tramp, ma'm, we feeds every 
 moi'uiiig. 
 
 Mrs. Rentivine. Oh well, give him something. 
 
 [Molly takes a plate of food and a cup and saucer on a waiter out 
 to the tramp and returns. Bell rings again and Molly runs 
 out and returns. 
 
 Molly McGraiD. There's another one, ma'm. 
 
 [Bell rings again and Molly runs out and returns. 
 
 McGraw. Oh, ma'm, there's a whole family of 'era. 
 [Enter Miss Rentwine, Miss Connery, 3Ir. Connery, Dilworthy 
 
 and Reyburn as tramps. Reylmrn, who is in the lead, says .- 
 
 Reyburn. ^ My good mam, so kind, so good to bid us come 
 and eat. We're so hunjj-rv. Sliukv .Toe,'they'll o'ive us seats 
 at de tal)le. ' ' " "^ 
 
 Sones. This is too much. Mrs. Rentwine shall I put 
 these people out ? 
 
 [ Connery draws his old file and threatens to strike Sones. 
 Conuery. Go slow ! . Git down dere, git down dere. I'll 
 file de top ob yer skull away. 
 
 4 
 
26 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Oli, mercy on ns, what shall we do ? 
 Molly, where are the gentlemen? 
 
 \_Beybuni approaches 31 rs. Bndwinc. 
 
 Eeybarn, Some peoi)le8 as can't know cler true friends. 
 Here we is as would tight for dis blessed ooniam. We's 
 tnarked de gate wid de cross of plenty for. all us kind, and 
 protection tor her. [7b Soiies], Don't yer call no one for 
 her. She's among friends and I know she wants her friends 
 to sit down and eat. Come, less us all partake of food. Par- 
 son say de grace. 
 
 Mrs. Reniwiiie. Oh, I can't stand it. 
 
 Connery. Nor can we, mam ; so we'll all sit down. Sit 
 down, dere, you women. 
 
 [ All take seats and the tramps (/rab everything m sight. 
 
 Mrs. Reniarlne. Molly, run tor the police. 
 
 Reybarn. Big Ike, shet de doors. You know dese deli- 
 cate women can't'stand a draft. [DHworthy and McGraw 
 race for the doors, but Dilu'orthy succeeds in locking them . Rey 
 burn throws a piece of bread at Mo/ly and she f<hows fight, and 
 says ;] 
 
 McGrarn. It's not for the likes er yon to chunk me. 
 Ye'd better save the bread for your hungry stomachs. 
 
 Miss Ccjnnery. Oh, oh, Br , Bro — ! 
 
 [ Rey burn grabs her and says : 
 
 Reybarn. No, no; you shall not drink any brandy. 
 
 Sones. Oil, oh, my dear madam. We liad, that is, it is 
 best not to enrage these dear people. They can but eat and 
 go away. 
 \^As Miss McGraw attempts to suppress a laugh Reyburn chunks 
 
 at her again.'\ 
 
 3TcGraw. I'd like to set the dogs on the likes er you. 
 Niver, niver mind, we'll capture the last one er yer. 
 
 3Iiss Rentioine. [In changed voice:] ^Ve don't hurt 
 people. Let us eat and go in peace. 
 
 3Irs. Rentwine. Well, I'm done with tramps. 
 
 Miss Rerdwine. [Aside.] I liope so. 
 
 [ Suppressed laughter amongst the tramps. 
 
 Dilworthy. Dis is de jolliest breakfast we's had since de 
 wreck on the Iron Mountain.. Bo — . Slinky Joe, give us a 
 song. [All the tramps :] Yes, Slinky, a song. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 27 
 
 Sones. And can these creatures who toil not and pro- 
 duce nothing, really sing? 
 
 Reyharn. Passon, you a-^ live in glass houses shouldn't 
 throw stones. If your kind produce anything except the 
 collection plates, we have never heard of il, and w^e travels 
 around extensively. 
 
 [ All the traiaps laugh heartily. 
 
 Mrs Rentwhic. The creatures seem harmless when left 
 to have their way. 
 
 Coiwery. Parson, Railroad Bill got vou on your rake 
 off. 
 
 Sones. Oh my ! 
 
 Dllioorthy. The song ; the song. 
 
 THE SONG OF THE TRAMP. 
 
 Some go traveling once a year, 
 We go traveling every day. 
 
 No baggage to check, nothing to fear, 
 No porters to tip, no fares to pay. 
 
 Chorus — 
 
 The tields are green, 
 
 The air is free ; 
 No work to be seen, 
 
 The whole world to see. 
 
 II. 
 
 The sun is kind to the tramp, 
 
 As he loiters on tiie road. 
 He can always eat; he's a hungry scamp, 
 
 Wliile water is free, no drink's too good. 
 
 Chorus- 
 III. 
 
 Our wardrobe is somewhat scant 
 No wash-hills we've to pay ; 
 
 No sorrows to lament. 
 
 After each night another day. 
 
 Chorus — 
 IV. 
 
 Chorus— 
 
 A careless, lazy life to lead, 
 But we never die of ennui. 
 
 Tlie ricli are rich, and we're in need. 
 The life of a tramp is simply to be- 
 
 [Curtain. 
 
28 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 ACT. III.— SCENE 1. 
 
 The Luxury Club. JJadly Dau'soii is ducovered at a table 
 reading a paper. He yawva and .stretches his arms. 
 
 Dudly Dawson. Ob 1113', how tlie diil) ifs giving it to 
 tramps. Leastwise to society people phiying Ti'aiups. 
 Tompkins, he says that Uiclies to do such things liavc litilc 
 to do. And Mr. Conneiy yelled at him; not much with him 
 would they have to do. Tlien says Tom])kins : "some tramps 
 don't have rags enough to cover their legs, Init he hopes 
 Miss Rentwine wasn't exposed." And Mr. Connery yelled at 
 him: that'll do, that'll do. \_Fi.ces his collar and arises and 
 looks at himself in the glass. 
 
 [Enter Connery. 
 
 Connery. Looking in the glass, hey! Don't wonder; 
 you're a pretty fellow, especially on your bike. 
 
 Dairson. Everybody' is out and I didn't know you were 
 here, sir, asking your pardon. , 
 
 Connery. All right Dudly, all right Dawson. Give me 
 a drink. Haven't had a drink in a week. What have you 
 got to eat ? 
 
 \^Daiuson hands him a drink, vhich he swallows. 
 
 Dawson. Oh we've got a splendid dinner to-day, sir. 
 
 Anything you wish. 
 
 Conner\\ Yes, you always have; always a good dinner 
 for a fellow — if he isn't hungry. Go and bring me a broiled 
 l)one, a bird and some dinner; some of that very good din- 
 ner, I'll see liow good it is. 
 
 [Exit Dawson. 
 
 Connery. I just can't make her out. She's careless, bold 
 and free, but when a fellow gets to the line, why there he is. 
 
 [Enter 3Iiss Bentwive unobserved by Connery. 
 Miss Rentwine. Is Mr. Connery in do yon know, sir? 
 
 [Connejnj turns and faces her. 
 Connery. Why cousin Sue. 
 
 Miss Bentwine. Cousin Lob, I took you foi- the servant. 
 I beg your pardon. \^Laughs.'\ 
 
 Connery. Xo apology. Silly girls often make mistakes. 
 \_Miss Bentwine seats herself and rises again. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 29 
 
 Miss Rentwine. I like that. After I came here especial- 
 ly to see you. 
 
 [Connery playfidhj (jrasjjs her and the two take seats. 
 Connery. Tm so o-lad to see you. I've just ordered 
 lunch, and you shall join nie. [Yells out.'] Jioy, let that 
 order come double.- Xow, niy pretty cousin?'' Bei^-ii-ino- 
 again? Why don't you beg tor me? I'll o-ive vou'an^^- 
 thing. ' " ^ . J 
 
 3Iiss Coiniery, Cousin Bob, you are too etiusive, too 
 fresh as it wei'o. 
 
 Connery. Oh that's all right. If von won't beg for me, 
 I'm going to beg for you. In deadly solemn earnest you 
 know, Cousin Sue. 
 
 [lakes her hand, which she draws lack. 
 Miss Rentwine. Foolish cousin Bob; how often have 
 you been in deadly, solemn earnest, with a dozen other girls? 
 I'll none of you, and to spare you further efforts at tlirting 
 I'll phiinly say to you, that I can never be anything to you— 
 w^ell I'll be a cousin to you ; not even a sister, for you're too 
 rough with }'our dear, good sister. 
 
 Connery. Blessed if she aint making fun of me. Boy, 
 boy, brandy and soda! 
 
 [Enter Dihrorthy. 
 Miss Rentwine. I'm so glad to see vou. And you came 
 so opportunely. Eh, cousin^Bob ? 
 
 [Enter Dawson with brandy and soda, which Connery raises to 
 drink. 
 
 Lonnery. Here's to you, pretty cousin Sue. [Drinks.'] 
 I'll go to hard drinking now, all, all for you. 
 
 Dilwcjrthy. I'm astonished at you, Bob. 
 
 Miss Rentwine, Mr. Dilworthy, has he ever done any 
 soft drinking? Oli cousin Bob, you'd better drink to me 
 often, and often as your cousin, than to some good girl as 
 your wife. * 
 
 Dilworthy. Capital advice, Bob. I hope you'll i^rofit 
 by It. 
 
 Connery. She goes with Sones so much, she's preaching. 
 You know I think Darwin was all wrong in his monkey- 
 man theory. The girl came from the o-on]].,. Oh girl, oh 
 girl, goriloh ! 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Mercy on us, what gibberish ! Let's 
 
30 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 chaiii^e the subject. And that reminds me. I came here to 
 ask you gentlemen to contradict the foohsh reports some 
 very silly and ill bred peo[)le are circulating about our tramp 
 lesson to mother. I don't care a snap about it, but it is 
 worrying mother. 
 
 Connery. You can't guess. how you relieve me. It you 
 didn't come here to beg tor your Hock of sick and snitering 
 people, who always seem to be in want, I'll promise any- 
 thing. I'll lick the tirst man who says a word about our little 
 frolic. It was really good, wasn't it, cousin Sue? Don't I 
 wish it was true ; I'd tramp the world over with you. 
 
 Miss Reiitwine. Well, I can't say I want to he a tramp 
 again, even with such a charming tramp for a lite long com- 
 panion, as Slinkey Jje. \_LaiL(jhs.'] 
 
 Dilroorlhy. My dear Miss Rentwine, j^ou know you can 
 rely upon and command me. 
 
 Connery. Plague that cook. I'm as starved as I Avas 
 when I was a tramp. Cousin Sue, excuse me, I'll go and 
 kill the cook. 
 
 [ Exit Connery. 
 
 Dilworthy. Miss Rentwine, won't you have a little wine, 
 or some refreshment of some kind. Dawson! 
 
 [ Tlie waiter advances. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Oh, nothing, .thank you. 
 
 Dilworthy. Dawson, you may bring me a claret punch, 
 if Miss Rentwine won't object, \_ As Daicson starts out Dil- 
 worthy overtakes him and ivhispers to him, and then returns to 
 Miss Bentw/ne.] I really am in luck to-day. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Did you select the winning horse, or has 
 some poor fellow lost to you at cards? 
 
 Dilworthy. Better than that. I have won a private in- 
 terview with you. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. [Aside.'] Oh, my ! 
 
 Dilworthy. Miss Rentw^ine, ever since I've known you, I 
 have had the deepest interest in you, and since we have been 
 thrown more together lately, I have learned to love you, as 
 I can love, no other w^oman. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. [Aside.'] These club men seem to have 
 nothing to do but to drink wine and flirt. I'll teach this 
 one a lesson. 
 
 Dilworthy. [Takes her hand.] Miss Rentwine, if yon 
 can bid me hope, I can otter you a life of devotion. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 31 
 
 Miss Rentwhie. Oli, this is so sudden, Mr, Dilworthy, 
 and I fear you gentlemen are too fond of making love. 
 C(M]sin Bob has just told me lie could not live witliont me, 
 and now lie's scoldins^ the cook for not heino- fast enouoh 
 with lunch. 
 
 Dllioorthij. Miss Jientwine, yon wound my feelings, in- 
 deed you do, to compare me to jovial, careless Bob Connery. 
 Why, he never had a serious purpose in life. 
 
 Miss Re.ntwine. And you are quite sni-e you are serious? 
 
 Dilworthy. Oh, that I am. \_Sitzes her and attempts to 
 embrace her.'] 
 
 [Enter Hey burn. 
 
 Reyburn. Excuse me; really you must. I thought Mr. 
 Connery was in, and I Avanted to see him. I will go and 
 look for him. [ Starts out.~\ 
 
 Miss ReaUoine. [ Who has risen f/'on her seat, says ;] Mr. 
 Reyburn, I am so very glad you came in. Things are not 
 always what they seem. 
 
 [ Enter Mr. Sonrs and 3Iiss Connery. 
 
 Sones. Well, we've found yon at last, and a merry chase 
 we've had. 
 
 Miss Connery. We looked for you everywhere. We 
 could hear of you. Sue, but you eluded us nicely by coming 
 here. 
 
 Dilworthy. \_Aside.~\ 1 wonder why things can turn ("rom 
 good to bad so quickly. I actually can't bear the sight of 
 that parson. 
 
 3Iiss Connery. Mr. Dilwortliy will you go with me to 
 look up, brother ; Mrs. Rentv\'ine wishes to see him about 
 business matters ? 
 
 Dihimrthy. Oh, certainly. 
 
 [All go Old except Mr. Sones and Miss Rentwine. 
 
 Sones. Miss Sue, I was searching for you.becausv^ I 
 wished to tell 3'ou of a purpose very dear to myself and to 
 your good mother. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Ah, indeed. [Aside.] Goodness gra- 
 cious, is the parson going to pop also? 
 
 [Enter Mrs. Rentwine. 
 3Irs. Rentwine. Well, I've caught u[) with you at last. 
 Miss Rentwine. Mother, Em so glad, so glad you came. 
 Sones. Mrs. Rentwine, perhaps it was fortunate, I 
 
82 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 was just teHiiig' Miss Sue what I've already told yon ; that I 
 dearly and truly love lier, and want her to become my wife. 
 
 Miss Roitioinc-.- Well, I'll bear witness that no faint 
 heart stands in your way at any rate. 
 
 Mrs. Eentioine. Sue, you know the wish of ray heart. 
 Nothing oil earth, my child, would so please me as to see you 
 aeeopt this good man. It has been the hope of my life that 
 you would mai'ry a minister. 
 
 M/ss Ri'ntioine. Oh, my mother, ami Mr. Sones, you 
 both know I think so well of him, of his pure life and noble 
 work, but mother, I cannot say I love him true enough to 
 make the good wife he ought to have. 
 
 Sones. [Takriuf both her hands, says :'\ Miss Sue, your 
 frank admission of the kindly interest in me and my life, 
 makes me more certain we may safely marry. 
 
 Mrs. Rentiolne. Sue, you know I would not advise my 
 only daughter unless L felt sure. 
 
 Miss Rentirine. Oh, mother, I consent for your sake, 
 and Mr. Sones I'll do my Ijest to be worthy of you, sir. 
 
 [ Enter Dawson. 
 
 Damson. Luncli is served, and Mr. Connery awaits Miss 
 Rentwine and her friends. 
 
 3Irs. Rentunne. Thank Mr. Connery and tell him I'll be 
 gUid to see him when luneh is over. 
 
 Sones. I don't care for anything, thank you. 
 
 Miss Rentivine. Oh, I suppose I must go 
 
 [Tffi'.s.s Rejitwine anrl Dairson go out. 
 
 Sones. We must keep her away from here after this. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. But we must not hurry her. I've prom- 
 ised her a party as soon as Captain Rentwine gets in on the 
 " Morning Star." 
 
 Sones. I can trust your most excellent judgment. 
 
 [Enter Miss Connery and Miss Rentwine. 
 
 Miss Rentioine. Mother, I've told Cyn, and she's to be 
 my first bridesmaid. 
 
 3Iiss Connery. I congratulate you, Mr. Sones ; you've 
 won my schoolmate, and one of the purest and best of 
 women. 
 
 [Enter Connery, Dilworthy and Reyhurn. 
 
 DUiiDrthy. [A hlressiny Mrs. Rentwine.'] Madam, I've 
 brought Mr. Connerv. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 33 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Thank you. Mr. Connery L would 
 ppeak with you a moment. I liave u message' from Capt. 
 Rentwine. 
 
 Connery. Where is your son, on his boat of course, but 
 where is the boat? 
 
 3Irs. Rentwine. Oh, boat and ca[)tain are safe. 
 \_Connenj and Mrs. Rentwine whisper together, as if talking of 
 private business. 
 
 31iss Rentiaine. Mother, we had better o-o now 
 
 Dilworthy. Oh Miss Rentwine, do not liurry. When 
 shall we see you again? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. I couldn't say. 
 
 Dilworthjj. If I call to-morrow for you will you take a 
 walk with me? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, I suppose so. 
 
 [Mrs. Rentivine leaves Connery, and his sister Joins him, and thei/ 
 trhispcr together. 
 
 Connery. [Aside.] You don't say so. And she's really 
 going to niari-y him. What on earth did I waste my time 
 on lier for? 
 
 Sones. [To 3Irs. Rentwine.] I suppose we are ready 
 to go. 
 [Sones, Mrs. Rentwine, Miss Rentwine and Miss Connery go out. 
 
 Dilworthy. Bol), the ladies certainly made us a pleasant 
 call. 
 
 Connery. Yes, hut I guess it'll be about the last, for 
 cousin vSue. She's to marry the parson. 
 
 .[Dilworthy jumps up as if greatly astonished and worried. 
 
 Dilworthy. I'll be d— d if I believe it. And I think I 
 have good reasons for not believing it. 
 
 Connery. Sorry for you, old fellow, but sister Cvn just 
 told me, and she tells Cyn everything. And they don't care 
 to keep it secret. 
 
 Reyhurn. I have my doubts. The girl don't seem to 
 know her own mind. If I may judge from appearances, she 
 seemed to take very kindly to Dilworthy. 
 
 Connery. The thunder she did. I thought it was a 
 walk over for me too, but 1 got left at the post. Dil, old 
 boy, misery loves company'"; let's take a drink. Boy ! 
 brandy and soda. What'll y;)u liave, Dil, and you, Billy 't 
 
 [ Waiter appears and all order drinks. 
 
34 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Dilworthy. If that don't stump me ! And she trilled 
 with me, actually led me on to kick me back. And for a 
 preacher. I believe I hate that preacher. Again that Rent- 
 wine family has triumphed over mine. I'll get even, I'll get 
 even, if I keep my senses. I reall}' intended to do well with 
 her, and try to lead a better life. I'm desperate now. 
 
 Coinienj. Oh bother, Dil,you make too much of a little 
 love atfair with a girl. I'll bet a good deal she accepted the 
 parson to please her mother. 
 
 Reyburn. From what I saw I'm sure of it. 
 
 [Enter Dawson tvith drinks. 
 
 Connery. Here, Dil, here's to the girl, and here's to the 
 parson, who cut us out. \_Drinks.'\ 
 
 Dilworthy, I'll drink, but to neither. I'll drink to a 
 plan to bring down the haughty flirt a peg or two and thwart 
 the preacher. \_Drinks^ 
 
 Reyburn. i^ nd I'll drink to a l)etter understanding ot 
 the fair lady, l(jr I'm blessed if she aint a puzzle to me. 
 \_Drinks^ I tl )ught she was the last one to marry a 
 preacher. 
 
 \^Exit Dawson loith waiter ayid glasses. 
 
 Connery. Let's go for a stroll. A fig for all women say 
 I. Every woman has her price. Boy, cigars, cigars. 
 
 [Enter Dawson loith cigars, which they all light and smoke and all 
 go out except Dawson. 
 
 Daioson. Well, here's more for Tompkins to talk about. 
 Mr. Dilworthy seems to be dead in it with that beauty. Miss 
 Kentwine. 
 
 SCENE II. 
 
 [The street iirith the house on which is the sign: '■'•Furnished 
 rooms to let." Enter Miss Rentwine and Dilworthy a/rm. in arm. 
 
 Dilworthy. The poor girl lives here. And she really 
 needs your loving care. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Certainly I'll go in and see her. I wish 
 Cyn was with me. This is a queer looking house-. Will 
 you go in with me? 
 
 Dilworthy. Certainly. I know the people. 
 
 [ They ring the bell and enter when the door is aliened. 
 
Tx\LKED ABOUT. 35 
 
 SCENE III. 
 THE LUXURY CLUB. 
 
 [ Comiery and Datoson are j^resent, the latter standing. 
 
 Connery. Dawson, fix me a real good drink. I'm out 
 of sorts. 
 
 Dawson. Brandy and soda, sir 'i 
 
 Convcry. No, Dndly; no Dawson, not brandy and soda. 
 Do you think I nev'er change ? 
 
 Dawson. How" 11 a good, stiff" cocktail do ? 
 
 Connery. Boy, you guessed it at once. Make it a 
 corker, too. Here, Dawson. [ Tlirows him money. 
 
 [ Exit Dawson. 
 
 Connery. I never thought any woman could upset me 
 so. We are curious creatures. The moment we can't get 
 anything, that moment we long for it more than ever. I 
 never cared overmuch about pretty Cousin Sue, but now 
 that she's lost to me, I believe I could risk all I own and life 
 itself for her. Men in my condition are — well, to pnt it 
 plain — D — d fools. 
 
 [Enter Daicson yitJi <t cor/rf^iil. 
 
 Dawson. I took extra pains with it, sir. 
 
 Connery. Thank you, boy. [Drinks and smachs his lips.] 
 It went riglit to the si)ot. Now, Dawson, if you'd change ott 
 from your bike occasionally, you'd be worth something, you 
 really would. 
 
 [Enter Reybiirn. 
 
 Dawson. Here's Mr. Reyburn, sir. You were inquir- 
 ing for him. 
 
 .Reyljurn. Good morning, Mr. Connery. I've a lot to 
 tell you. 
 
 Connery. Billy, I'm glad you came. I've got the 
 dumps, and Billy a woman is at the bottom of it, but the 
 dumps are on me all the same. Think of Bob Connery 
 being bothered by a pretty woman — by pretty Cousin Sue — 
 pretty third Cousin Sue, 
 
 Reyburn. That's just Avhat I want to talk about. 
 
 Connery. About pretty Cousin Sue, Billy ? Fire away, 
 Billy. You know Billy you can always kinder comfort me. 
 Dawson, give B'lUy a corker to loosen him up. 
 
 [ Dawson goes out. 
 
 Reyburn. What's a corker, sir ? 
 
36 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Connery. Dudl}' Dawson, or Dawson Dudly, wliicli is it 
 Billy, has just learned to make a good cocktail, and I call it 
 a corker, i>illy mine. But I want to hear about pretty 
 Cousin Sue. 
 
 Reyharn. I'm afraid you w jn't relish what I've to say, 
 sir. Appearances are against her — very decidedlj- against 
 her. 
 
 Connery. Billy, come to the point. I know she's to 
 marry the parson, but what are you driving at? 
 \_ Enter Dawson with cocktail, which JReyburn drinks. Daicson 
 
 retires with glass. 
 
 Reyburn. That is a scorcher, sure enough; reminds me 
 of a drink I used to take in the old times on the stage, when 
 they drenched some of us with water to try to make a poor 
 comedy witty. 
 
 Connery. Billy, allow uie to remark you are wandering. 
 Come back to my pretty third cousin. 
 
 Beyburn. I'll tell you, because you of all others ought 
 to know before you go too far. Tompkins and I were out 
 for a walk yesterday and by the merest chance we saw Miss 
 Kentwine and Dilworthy. !N'othiiig particular in that, except 
 that they were in — well, in a rather shady part of the city. 
 
 Connery. Billy, be careful that you don't go too far. 
 
 Beyburn. I'll tell the simple truth aiul you may judge 
 for yourself. Long before this Tompkins has tattled it to a 
 hundred anyway. 
 
 Connery. Tattled what, Billy? 
 
 Beyburn. We followed Dilworthy and the lady, sir, but 
 were careful they should not see us. As I am alive the}' both 
 went straight to that house, and both entered it togetlier. 
 
 Connery. [ Greatly excited.'] What house ? Be d — d 
 careful, sir. The girl is vjothing to me, nothing, but if she's 
 the plaything of a man like Dilworthy, the sooner I warn my 
 sister the better. 
 
 Beyburn. You asked me what house. I'll tell you. It 
 is a house on Eighth street. It is a house to be shunned by 
 virtuous women as they would aplague. Yesterday I thought 
 Miss Rent wine one of the purest, best of women. If a 
 woman with a reputation as white as snow should enter that 
 house, her good name would be painted black as night and 
 good people would shun her. 
 
 Connery. Billy, you've never told me a falsehood ; 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 37 
 
 Billy, I've been a dear, good friend to you. Billy say this is 
 oulv a joke — a lie told me to cure me of a foolish passion. 
 
 Reyhurn. I wish I could, sir. I wish I could; but, alas, 
 it's every word the truth. 
 
 Comiery. I'll never put trust in woman again, never, 
 never. 
 
 Rcybitrn. I torgot to tell you. I saw her in very close 
 quarters with Dilwoithy that day they were all here. Her 
 tace was close enough to him for him to have kissed her. 
 
 Connery. Billy add no more. Say no more about her. 
 I've done with her. And that is why she played the charity 
 
 business, bah I 
 
 [ Enter Dihcorthy. 
 
 Rnjburn. Good morning, Mr. Dilworthy. 
 
 Bllwortky. Ilowdy, Billy. Bob, how are you feeling? 
 
 Connery. How are you, sir? 
 
 Dilworthy. Umph ! short as pie crust. Anything wrong? 
 
 Connery. Mr. Dilworthy, I'd like to ask you a question 
 or two, and you can answer tliem or not as you see iit. 
 
 Dilworthy. Why Bob, old fellow, you are really serious. 
 01 course I'll give you any information I can, but I can"t 
 guess what you are driving at. 
 
 Connery. You shall soon know. Were you out walk- 
 ing yesterday evening late ? 
 
 Reyhurn. Oh, he'll not deny that. 
 
 Dilworthy. I fail to see what you have to do with it 
 Mr. Reyburn, or you either Mr. Connery for that matter, if 
 I was out walking late. 
 
 Connery. I thiidv I have much to do with it. Were 
 you out walking late yesterday evening? 
 
 Dilworthy. Oh, yes, E believe I did take a stroll. What 
 of that Bob? The streets are free. 
 
 Connery. Who was your companion? 
 
 Dilworthy. Well I'll be blessed if you don't catechise 
 me pretty closely. I had a lady for my companion. 
 Connery. The lady's name, please. 
 
 Dilworthy. Bob, that's hardly fair. All gentlemen have 
 
 their little aiiairs, and you should not press me too closely. 
 
 Connery. Mr. Dilworthy I'll be frank with you, and 
 
 I'm terribly in earnest. It i"^t, was tlie lady I suspect, I have 
 
 a direct interest in knowing. 
 
38 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Dihoorthy. Certainly not on your own account, for 
 she's nothing to you. 
 
 Connery. If it is the per-on I think, then certainly I 
 have a deep interest on ray sister's account. [Takes Dil- 
 worthy by the shoulders^ Now, sir, was it Miss Rentwine? 
 
 Dllworthy. Yes, Bob, I took a walk with Miss Rent- 
 wine. What of that? 
 
 Connery. Nothing particular, if that is all. But did 
 you and slie not go to the — house on Eighth street? 
 
 Dllworthy. Mr. Connery, I must decline to answer your 
 question. You can yourselt seethe impropriety of even con- 
 necting the name of Miss Rentwine with that liouse. 
 
 [Connery grasps Dllworthy violently and shoids at him. 
 
 Connery, By G — d, sir, you shall answer it. If you do 
 not I'll spit in your face and shoot yon if you resent it. 
 
 [Reyhurn jiunps up and gets betireen the two gentlemen. 
 
 Reyburn. Mr. Connery, let nie beseech you to keep 
 cool and give 3'ourself time to think what you're doing. 
 You can't afford to have your name mixed up in this mess. 
 
 Diboorthy. I want no quarrel Avith Connery, but I can't 
 be bullied b_y him. 
 
 Reyburn. He only wanted you to speak on his sister's 
 account. 
 
 Dilworthy. I cannot tell Miss Rentwine's comings and 
 goings, but I'll tell Connery to advise his sister to quit asso- 
 ciating with her. 
 
 Connery. Mr. Dilworthy, I acted hastily. Billy, you 
 are right. Miss Rentwine is not worth a serious thought on 
 her own account. Let's all take a drink. 
 
 Ddworthy. No thank you. I'll go out for awhile to 
 cool otf. 
 
 [Dilworthy goes oat. 
 
 Reyburn. What do you think now, sir? 
 
 Connery. Just as 3'ou said. She's flirted herself to ruin. 
 But I can't understand whv she en^ao-ed herself to the 
 preaclier. Oh well, the ways of women are past finding out. 
 
 Reyburn. Em bound to believe my eyes; but there sti.U 
 seems to be some mj'stery about the whole business. I've 
 thought and thought and the more I think the more it wor- 
 ries me. 
 
 Connery. And her mother gives her a part}' next week. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 39 
 
 Won't there be a blow up in society? Society, oh d — n 
 society. 
 
 JReyhurn. ^Woirt Captain Kentwine cut up rou<,4i when 
 he returns? You know he never did have any usefor Dil- 
 worthy. 
 
 Coimenj. It's big odds Cliarlie Rentwine will pump Dil- 
 worthy full of lead. And you know, Billy, I won't weep 
 much. Somehow, notwitlistanding his snioothe ways and 
 genteel bearing, I never did have much use for Dilworthy. 
 
 Reyhurn. I always did fear him more or less on your 
 account. 
 
 Connery. Thank you, Billy; I can take care of myself. 
 
 Reybufn. I didn't mean in that way, sir. I always felt 
 a little dread that he would swindle yon, or betray you in 
 some w^ay. I almost hate him now. 
 
 Connery. Ah, the poor girl, the ^(oor girl. And she re- 
 fused nie. Billy, I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll go to see her 
 to-morrow and — and, — well we shall see. 
 
 [Curiaiii. 
 
 ACT. IV.— SCENE I. 
 
 [Mrs, Rentwine: s parlor. Mrs. Rentwine and daughter are 
 seen in conversation. 
 
 Miss Rentioine. Mother, we should receive answers to 
 our invitations to-day. But there will be enough ; I only 
 hope some will send their regrets. 
 
 3Irs. Rentwine. My child, yon should begin to wean 
 yourself from these things. You do not know how Mr. Sones 
 will take this one. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, that's all right. I told hirn thisw^as 
 my last tea. 
 
 Afrs. Rentwine. Very well. Then, my, child, you shall 
 have it just as you wish. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Dear, good mama. I want the young 
 people to enjo3' tliemselves to the utmost. The flowers shafj 
 be the prettiest. Brother sent such lovely ones by express, 
 from ISew Orleans. I'm crazy to inspect them, but I wouldn't 
 think of touching thein without Cyn. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Child, why not send for Cyn and ask 
 her to stay and help you until the tea is over. 
 
40 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 3fiss Rentunne. I will; Til do it this very morning. 
 [ Ihe bell rings. Enter Miss McGram and hands card. 
 
 Miss Beidirlve [reads :y Oh, mama, it is Cousin Boh. 
 How foi'tiinate. [She skijjs out and leads Mr. Connery in by 
 the hand. 
 
 Mrs. Rcrdwine. Rohert, we were jnst speaking of you as 
 you came in. Sit down and let us have a cozy chat. 
 
 Coniiery. Gratitied indeed ; I just dropped in to while 
 '<\n hour away with Cousin Sue, although she has treated me 
 reyl mean lately. 
 
 3Tiss Bent wine. No such thing, sir, no such thing. 
 Mother I wouldn't let him flirt with me and he pretends to 
 pout ahout it. 
 
 Mi-s Renttoine. Very proper, my child. Robert you 
 know she's soon to be married to Mr. Sones, and she must 
 be careful, even with you. 
 
 3Iiss Rentirine. Oh, yes. Cousin Bob, you don't know 
 how good I'm going to be. 
 
 Connery. [Aside^ Am I awake or am I dreaming. 
 She's as cool and deceitful as they ever make them. Beauty, 
 frailty and cunning combined; and this is one of tlie results 
 of modern society. 
 
 iif//.§.s Rentwine. Consiu Bob you must send Cyn here 
 just as soon as you see her. 
 
 Connery. Yes, yes, that is, if I see her. [Aside.'] I'll 
 make it convenient not to see her. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. I'll leave you two to talk over every- 
 thing. [Mrs. Rentwine goes oat. 
 
 [Miss Rentwine takes a seat on the sofa close beside Connery. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Cousin Bob, I've forgiven all your fool- 
 ishness, and now you must be a dear, good fellow and help 
 us all you can. 
 
 Connery. Bless your pretty self, you've but to cotn- 
 mand me, and I'll do anything; take any chances ; kill a 
 preacher or two, if you want to get rid ot them. 
 
 31iss Rentwine. Will you never talk sense? You haven't 
 been drinking to-day, have you? 
 
 Connery. Not a drop; but still I'm drunk. Drunk 
 with your l)eauty, and fascinated with your charming wicked- 
 ness. 
 
 [Atteinpts to steal his arm around her waist. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 41 
 
 Miss Rentwlne. [Laughin/j.^ 1 iie\'cM- lieard such nou- 
 seiiso. Stop that. [^ fakes his hand ^fi-om off' he?- waist.] And 
 behave better or I — 1 will, I'll slap your jaws for you. 
 
 Connery. Do so, do so, do anything to me. Your beau- 
 tiful hands on my cheek would be bliss indeed. [Snatches 
 one of her hinds and /cisses it. 
 
 Miss Mentwine. Oh cousin Bob, in eai-nest now. do be- 
 have. I do want to think well of you, but you know I can't 
 bear the least familiarity even from you. I despise that sort 
 of way that some sill)' girls have. 
 
 Connery. Oh, my pretty, bewitching cousin, you are not 
 so particular about some other gentlemen, and might give 
 me a kiss. \_Before she's aivare of his purpose, he fcisses her and 
 attempts to embrace her. Miss Rentwine more-'' away from him. 
 
 Miss Rentann^-. l"m real mad at you. If v(m just won't 
 behave, I must leave the room. 
 
 Connery. Oh no, [)retty one : that is a little blutf. 
 Don't be so cruel. Money, jewels, name your price ; for the 
 least of your favors. [Attempts to grasp her. 
 
 [Miss Rentwine rises, sta.mps hi r foot and is terribly in earnest. 
 
 Miss Rentinine. llow dare you insult me, sir? Arv^ yon 
 drunk or crazy, or both ? 'S'ou took advantage of your 
 position and my brother's absence, to play the part of a 
 dirty, brutal coward. No gentleman ever offered such an in- 
 sult to a lady, and yon shall pay dearly for this. Oapt. 
 Rentwine will cowhide you or kill you. Leave the house, 
 sir. Oh my God! [Cries.'] 
 
 Connery. One word. [Gets on his knees bejore her.] On 
 my knees may 1 beg you, pray you to hear me. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Xot a word. [Points to the door.] Leave 
 the house. 
 
 Connery. If you could sec in my heart, you — 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Yes, I could see the l)lack heart of a 
 libertine and rake. 
 
 Connery. For Ood's sake let me say a few words. I've 
 done — 
 
 Miss Rent/rine. Will you go, or must 1 call mother. 
 
 Connery. If not for my sake, for my dear sister's, will 
 you hear me? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, Cyn, Oyn, how can I ever tell you ? 
 
42 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 I must now break with the best friend on eartli, and for this 
 wretched, crawling coward. 
 
 Connery. Oh, for God's sake, doirt do tliat. Do not 
 punish lier for my fanit. If you will not hear a word from 
 me, promise not to tell her — at least give me three days, and 
 I'll leave the city. 
 
 31is.'< Rentwine. (to, sir, go, on your sister's account. 
 I'll ffive von a week to arrange vour business and leave the 
 (dty. 
 
 [ She goes out. 
 
 Connery. I"m liuniiliated and miserable, bnt I'm glad 
 she's a pure, good woman. Lost to me. Lost to me, forever. 
 
 [ Goes out. 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 [^Enter McGraw loith letter in envelope. 
 
 McGrain. It's for Miss Sue, but I'll not disturb herjust 
 now. She seems worrit like about something. 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 [ Mc Grain runs ou/ and comes back vnth two more letters. 
 
 3IcGrau\ And these be the same kind. They seems to 
 be from societ}" people. 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 [McGrau' repeats the trip to the door and returns with more 
 
 letters. 
 
 McGraiP. The Miss will have a lot of radin" and ritin' 
 to do ; sure slie will. 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 
 [ McGraw repeats the trip. 
 
 McGraw. And more of them still, and all alike as two 
 pays. [ She puts them all on a table and, goes out. 
 
 SCENE II. 
 
 [ The street with the house on which the sign is seen : " Furnished 
 rooms to let.'' Connery and Reyburn come out of the door; 
 the Jormer drunk, the latter disguised. 
 
 Connery. Well, where are we? 
 
 Reyburn. We are all right, butyou took too much wine. 
 
 Connery. Stop Billy, stop ; I'm tired. Wine, Billy, did 
 you say wine? L'm full of brandy, whisky, wine, vishus 
 (vichy) water. Tiah, Billy, 'rah. [^Yells out very loud. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 48 
 
 Reyburn. We're in the street, Mr. Connery, and you 
 must be quiet. Let me call a cab. 
 
 Connery. Wait, Billy, wait. Hold me up; no, lay me 
 down. [Staggers awl Reyburn catches him.'] Everything all 
 right, Billy ? Know I give you cart blanche? Did you un- 
 ravel things like you said? How's the old cat, Billy ? 
 
 Beyburn. Did my best, and I'll succeed sure. Cost a 
 lot of money, though. Let's go, sir ? 
 
 Connery. No, sir; no siree. \_Very lovd.'] Tell me 
 some more, Billy. Here it is. [O/fers a roll of tnoney.] Was 
 I right, Billy? "Was I right? 
 
 Beyburn. Indeed you were. It will all lie made clear. 
 Come sir, we must go now, or a cop will come along and 
 take us in. 
 
 Connery. x^o, sir, no siree; we'll take him in. Le'ss 
 light, Billy, le'ss fight. [ Squares off as if to box with Beyburn.] 
 I want to practice so as to knock some of the d — n club liars 
 out if they ever dare call her name. Show me that under- 
 cut, Billy. 
 
 Beyburn. We mnst go, sir; I see persons approacliing. 
 On her account, come along, sir. 
 
 Connery. All right, all right. But not for any cop, or 
 preacher, or cab driver, or anything of that sort. No, sir; 
 no siree ! 
 
 [ They go out. 
 
 SCENE III. 
 
 [Mrs. Benturine's parlor. Enter 3frs. Bentwine and daughter. 
 
 Miss Bentwine. Mother, I do not feel well this morning. 
 
 Mrs. Bentwine. Why, what is the matter? Yesterday 
 3-ou were so bright. 
 
 Miss Bentwine. Many things worried me yesterday. 
 
 [ Enter Molly McGraw. 
 
 McGraw. Miss Sue, the letters came last night, but you 
 looked so tired like, I didn't think you'd like being bothered 
 with them. 
 
 [ She goes out. 
 
 Miss Bentwine. Oh, motlier, what a pile of them. [ Opens 
 one and reads.] Miss Tompkins sends regrets. Well, I don't 
 mind that much. We can get along at the tea without her. 
 
44 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 l^Opens another and reads i] Well, I declare, Miss Sharpwith 
 can't come. 1 don't much like tliat. \_Opeiis another.'^ Well, 
 did you ever? Sally Sandwich [)leads a previous engage- 
 ment. \_Opcns another.'] Mother, there is something wrong. 
 Here are two of my very hest friends, the i^eicestei's, ^^•ll() 
 decline in a stit^ manner. 
 
 3Trs Bentu'lne. Daughter, 1 can't imagine anything ex- 
 cept a mere coincidence in the refusals. Read the others. 
 
 Miss Behiwine. I feel so uneasy, \_0[iens another letter.] 
 Ah, this is from dear ohd C'yn, and she will come. What's 
 this? [Beads:] I've heard all, and I'll be witli you right 
 away. • If all the world turns against you, I'll believe in you 
 and cherish you. as ever. 
 
 Your loving friend, 
 
 Cynthia Connery. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Why, child, who's turned against you ? 
 
 31iss Mentiuiiie. Mother, I'm bewildered. I am actually 
 frightened. [Reads Miss Connery's letter again:] "I've heard 
 all, and J'll l:e with you right away. If all the world turns 
 against yon, I'll l)elieve in you and cherish you." Mother, 
 what can she liave heard? 
 
 Mrs. Rcvtn-lne. I can't imagine; but she'll soon be 
 here. Ivead the others. 
 
 Miss Rentivine. [Opens another letter and reads :] Kegrets 
 again, and from Miss Saulsbury. [O'pens the letters rajndly 
 and reads a little.] (Jh, mother, mother, all refuse to come. 
 And then, Cyn's letter. Why don't she come? 
 
 [Bell rings. 
 
 Miss Rentirine. There she is, there she is. [ She goes ont 
 quickly and returns accompanied by Rev. Jam Sones. 
 
 Sones. [ Very coolly ] Good morning Miss Jientwine ; 
 and how ai"e you feeling this morning Madame ? [ 7o Mrs. 
 Rentwine. 
 
 Mrs. Rodivine. I'm quite well, but we are both in a 
 peck of troul)le. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. I don't like it, sir, you calling me Miss 
 Rentwine. you promised to call me, Sne. 
 
 So7ies. Ah I did I ? well, ah, I believe, why really I be- 
 lieve I did. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Oh, never mind that now. Mr. Sones 
 I'm atraid Sue will liave to give up her tea. I don't under- 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 45 
 
 staiul it, but all of her lady friends, except Cynthia Connery, 
 have sent regrets and excuses. 
 
 Miss Eentwine, Now Sir, what are we to do ? 
 
 Sones. Miss Rentwine, I can't advise you. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. There you go again, Miss Pientwine ! as 
 cold as an icicle. 
 
 31is. Rentwine. Oh, daughter, what of that ? I do wish 
 Cynthia would come. 
 
 Mr. Sones. Madam, I might possiby be able to explain 
 the regrets and excuses, ah, of the ladies, but Miss Rentwine, 
 if, ah, that is, if she will search her own heart, knows 
 ample cause. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Sir ! You must explain yourself. I 
 know not the slightest reason tor those replies to my invi- 
 tations. 
 
 3Irs. Rentwine. I hope sir, you will speak out. 
 
 Soncs. I came for that purpose. But, ah, well perhaps 
 it would be best to speak to you alone. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. In lieaven's name, what do you mean? 
 I have no secrets from Mother, and I have a right to know 
 the cause of your strange actions and words. 
 
 Sones. Painful as it is, ah, to me, on A'our mother's ac- 
 count, and on my own, still, ah, after theniaturest reflection, 
 and counsel with the best people, there is no othercourse ah, 
 but all, — 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Speak man, speak. What do you mean ? 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Yes sir, you must make a very full ex- 
 planation. 
 
 Sones. Well, ah, Madame, I was ah, going to say, 
 that I've heard such things, and from sources ah, beyond 
 question, that I must ask Miss Rentwine to relieve me from 
 ah, my engagement with her. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh Mother, the man has gone crazy. 
 [ Mrs Rentwine rises and shakes her finger in Sones' face. 
 
 Mrs Rentwine. You could ask and have the engagement 
 broken oft sir. I blame myself for over-persuading my 
 daughter, but I demand to know here and now, the things 
 you have heard, tliat you sir, allege have caused you to take 
 this course. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. That he shall speak. 
 
 Sones. Well Madam. Miss Rentwine is now talked 
 
46 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 about. She has been indiscreet, ah, in her conduct, ah, and 
 it is beyond dispute, ah, that she has been frequentl}' seen in 
 a bad part of the city, and with a gentleman of known bad 
 morals. 
 
 3Irs. Rentwine. Sue, my daughtei-, oh my daughter, 
 what is this man saying ? 
 
 3fiss Rfntwine. Mother 1 can't repel attacks of ^vhich 
 I know nothing. It is dreadful, drcadfid ; and this man be- 
 lieves it. 
 
 Sones. [ rises ] Madam, I grieve at the, ah, the pain ; 
 but Miss Rentwine has got herself talked about, and her rep- 
 utation is gone. I will go. 
 
 Miss Eentunne. Yes, go I 
 
 [Sones bows low and goes out. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Sue, where have you been? What can 
 you have done ? 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 
 That must be Cynthia. [Miss Benticine goes out and returns 
 with Miss Connery. Miss Rentwine embraces her again and 
 again. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. Oh, mother, isn't she good : isn't she 
 true ? 
 
 3Iiss Connery. I met him going out ; what did he say 
 and ilo ? 
 
 31iss Rentwine. He said such awful things ; and Cyn he 
 broke ott" our engagement. 
 
 Miss Connery. He'll come back again, never fear. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. He needn't; he can never l)e anything 
 to my daughter again. Cynthia, what is it all about; what 
 has Sue done ? 
 
 Miss Connery. I can't explain all for there is a portion 
 that's a mystery, but the tongue of scandal and slander was 
 never so busy and bitter as it is in St. Louis to-day. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, Cyn, my pi-ecious friend, tell me all. 
 I'm dreadfully frightened ; I teei so weak I can hardly 
 stand. 
 
 Miss Connery. I know there isn't a word of truth in it. 
 But everything you've done lately has been construed against 
 you. That tramp business, your visits to the Luxury- Club, 
 your deportment there and especially witli Mr. Dilworthy, 
 are all the talk of the scandal-mongers. Trifles are magni- 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 47 
 
 tied, and your allowing Mr. Dilworthy to tie your gaiter, is 
 proof positive with some, Avho say they always thought you 
 too forward. But it is chsirged, Sue, that you go w^ith Mr. 
 Dilworthy any and everywhere, and that you have gone in 
 disreputahle portions of the city with him. 
 
 31>ss Rentwine. Mother, Cyn, oh this is dreadful, cruel, 
 heartless. I am as innocent of w-rong-doing as an infant, 
 but, oh God, the man is right; my reputation is gone. Yes- 
 terday I was gay and liglit-hearted ; to-dny lam as innocent 
 as then, but the blow has fallen. For a girl to be the least 
 careless, however pure and virtuous, is for her to be a crimi- 
 nal. I'd rather be dead! Oh mother, I w^ant to die, to die! 
 [^FalU on and emhraces her mother and weeps bitterly. 
 
 Miss Connery. Let her weep, it will <lo her good. But 
 Sue, friend of my gii'lhood, my schoolmate, my dearest, dear- 
 est friend, yon must be a true woman now. You and your 
 friends must give the lie to the scandal-mongers and tra- 
 ducers. 
 
 Mrs. -Rentwine. Oh, C'yntliia, you are a woman such as 
 is rarely seen. [Kisses her. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Terrible ! why I c-an"t go on the street. 
 I would be gazed at, cut l)y iicquaintances, and possibly in- 
 sulted. Let society, without investigation, judge, jury, or 
 any chance of defense on her part, once pronouiice the ver- 
 dict agaiiist a w^oman, and it Avould be far lietter to take her 
 life. 
 
 3]iss Connery. We must change the verdict ; we shall 
 change it. Do you hear? Be a w^oman ; you are young: 
 look to the future. Old age alone, should look to the past. 
 For youth to des])air, is to contradict nature. In our natures 
 w^e are like the changing seasons, the days of sunshine and 
 storm. To-day is one of gloom for you, dear friend ; to-mor- 
 row the clouds may break a little and soon the bright day of 
 hope and happiness may come. 
 
 3Irs. Rentvrine. You have already encouraged me. 
 Surely we can beat down these terrible slanders'? What 
 woukl 3^ou advise us to do, Cynthia? 
 
 3Iiss Connery. Oh, I'm at w-ork now, and others too. 
 You have many good, true friends. Brother, too. He came 
 home last night after drinking too much. The cab horse 
 balked with iiim and Mr. Keyburn, and the mean cabman 
 said it was on account of the load he carried — alluding to 
 brother.' This morning I thought he'd go to drinking again, 
 
48 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 but he didn't, and Sue, he promised me he'd never (h*ink 
 again. 
 
 3Irs. ReiiUDine. I'm so gh\d, so glad. 
 
 Miss Connery. Brother tokl me to see all the good 
 |>eople I conld, and say it was all a cruel mistake. I saw 
 Mr. Tompkins, Mr. Saulsbery and Mrs. Ludwick and told 
 them tliat it was a mean slander; that brother and Mr. Key- 
 burn said so. Oh, you ought to see Mr. Reyburn. tie's just 
 the be?!t friend you have. He told a man at the club it he 
 mentioned yonr name in any but a respectful way, he would 
 beat the life out ot him. 
 
 Miss Rent mine. Oh, you good friend. 
 
 Miss Connery. They are seeing everybody they can and 
 telling them there is not a word of truth in the rumors, and 
 the o;cntUMnen are coming around all right; it is only the 
 scandal talking society women. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. But Cynthia wliat can we do ? 
 
 31iss Connery. Oh, didn't I tell you ? Brother says I 
 must stop right here with yon and await instructions from 
 Mr. Keyburn ; he will do the rest, 
 
 Mrs. Rentinine. Oh, that is so kind of Mr. Robert, so 
 kind. 
 
 Mis^ Rentioine. [ Aside ] I certainly don't understand 
 him. 
 
 Miss Connery. You know that he is just as certain as I 
 am. Sue, he told me if there is one man in this world, who 
 knows you are a [)nre, good woman, he is that man ;and then 
 he cursed, oh, soawtully, and said lie'd never let the hounds 
 of society tear yon to pieces. I tell yon thatBrotlier is real 
 good, sometimes. 
 
 3Iiss Hentivine. I am very thankful, I'm sure. 
 
 3Tiss Connery. Oh, he kissed me, and told me never to 
 leave you in trouble if I loved him. I will hnrry home and 
 get a few things and come right back. \_They all go out. 
 
 [ Enter iieyhurn. 
 Heyburn. I have now a most delicate task. If I 
 fail Mr. Connery will be so disappointed I actually believe he 
 will leave the citv. 
 
 [Enter Molly McGraw. 
 
 McGraw. Good, morning, Mr. Reyburn. Who is it 
 ver wislies to see ? 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 49 
 
 Reyburn. I wish to see Miss Ken twine. 
 
 McGraw. That yiz can't I know. They told me to be 
 denyin' lier to everybody. 
 
 Reyburn. But I must see her on the most important 
 business. Tell her I am here, sent by the truest friend she 
 has on earth. 
 
 McGraw. Oh, I'll tell her, bnt that will be all the good 
 it Avill do. [_Goes out. 
 
 Reyburn. Well, I should be able to judge pretty well 
 by her bearing and conversation, 
 
 [ Enter Miss Rentivine. 
 
 Miss Rentivine. Mr. Reyburn 1 am very glad to see you, 
 
 [Shakes hands with him.] Miss Connery speaks so well of you, 
 
 Reyburn. Miss Connery is one of the best of women, 
 and her brother is a big-hearted, good man. 
 Miss Rentwine. [Aside.] I hope so, 
 
 Reyburn. Miss Rentwine, acting for your friends, I wish 
 to ask you two oi- three questions. 
 Miss Rentwine. Certainly. 
 
 Reyburn. Did you walk out with Mr. Dilworthy late 
 Wednesday evening? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. I did, 
 
 Reyburn. Did you enter a house with him on Eighth 
 street ? 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Yes, ^le told me there v^^as a poor, sick 
 girl there, and begged me to go in and see her. 
 
 Reyburn. [Aside.] The scoundrel ! [To her:] Did he 
 offer you any indignity, or insult of any kind?. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Oh, no, not the slightest. On the con- 
 trary, he behaved very politely. After some one saw him, 
 and I could not be permitted for some reason to see the girl, 
 I thought him vexed, but that was all, 
 
 Reyburn. I will leave you now, but will soon return 
 with other friends, I am sure all will soon be Avell. 
 
 [ Bows and goes out. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. My God, my God, I begin to see it all. 
 
 That house ; and that man took me there. Brother shall 
 
 kill him. I will telegraph liim to leave his boat and come to 
 
 me. [ Weeps.] 
 
 [ Enter Miss Connery. 
 
50 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Miss Connery. Sue, that won't do. Now dearest you 
 must not give way in that manner. I've seen brother, and 
 Mr. Reyburn and Mr. Sones, and the whole scandal will be 
 quickly brushed away. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Don't talk to me of Mr. Sones. He's 
 too good to be a friend of a poor woman who is entitled to 
 his friendship and protection. 
 
 Miss Connery. Don't be too hard on him. [They go out. 
 \_Enter Connery with Molly 3IcGraw. 
 
 Connery. Just tell sister I want to see her a few mo- 
 ments. 
 
 McGraw. That I will, sir. [Goes out. 
 
 [ Enter 3Iiss Connery. 
 
 Connery. How's she ? 
 
 Miss Connery. Brother, she is almost completely broken 
 down. She's so distressed, she's beginning to blame herself 
 for being imprudent. 
 
 Connery. Oh, well, I'll not try to get to see her. 
 
 Miss Connery, Have you found out the origin of all the 
 scandalous rumors ? 
 
 Connery. Yes, Reyburn says he knows the whole case 
 but he'll soon be here. I saw you with the Parson; what 
 does he say ? 
 
 Miss Connery. I think it fortunate that the match was 
 broken otf. Brother, I've got something to tell you. 
 
 Connery. About the Parson ? 
 
 Miss Connery. Yes. You won't get angry, will you. 
 Brother? 
 
 Connery.' Certainly not. Mr. Sones doesn't interest me 
 enough. 
 
 Miss Connery. But you are very deeply interested in 
 this. 
 
 Connery. Well, what is it ? 
 
 Miss Connery. Brother, Mr. Sones has made me a pro- 
 posal of marriage. 
 
 Connery.. Phew I Does he think I'll stand such trif- 
 ling ? 
 
 Miss Connery. He's not trifling; indeed he isn't. 
 
 Connery. And my sister — what repl}^ did you make ? 
 \Miss Connery puts one arm around her brothers neck. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 51 
 
 Miss Connery. Brother, I told him that if you approved 
 I'd be his wife. 
 
 Connery. Well, this is news. Are you sure you want 
 to be his wife? 
 
 Miss Connery. Yes, bivnher. 
 Connery. Kiss me sister. [ They kiss.] Are you sure it is 
 all off between the Parson and that is. Miss Rentwine? 
 
 31iss Connery. Quite sure. Sue never loved him. 
 
 Connery. My sensible, good sister, kiss me again. 
 [They kiss.'] [N'ow, Cyn, it will be holiness and Cyn joined 
 together. Can you hold holiness ? 
 
 Miss Connery. Brother, don't joke. Mr. Sones wants 
 to marry me right away. 
 
 Connery. Sister mine, I'll be serious. Sones has a good 
 rake-oft; and can always love, cherish and obey you, it he 
 wishes. And I have all your property in good shape. I'll 
 consent and thank yon, too, if you are dead sure it is all oft 
 between him and the other one. 
 
 Miss Connery. Xo doubt of it. But brother, don't say 
 rake-oft' any more, please ; say collections, contributions, or 
 something. 
 
 Connery. All right. Kiss yourgood, indulgent brother 
 once more. [They kiss.] A sister in need, is a stster indeed. 
 
 [Enter Mrs. Rentwine, 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Such a devcted brother and sister, f 
 wish Charles Avas at home to protect his sister. 
 
 Connery, Madam, there are friends here as devoted to 
 her as Captain Rentwine. 
 
 Miss Connery. I've an idea brother is very devoted to 
 her. And he's so good to me now, Mrs. Rentwine, because 
 she s my friend. 
 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Ah, indeed ! 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 [ Enter Dawson. 
 Dawson. Begging your pardon [bows to all] but Mr. 
 Connery, you know, sir, you told me to keep you posted, 
 that is, leastways about a certain person. 
 Connery. Well, what of him? 
 Dawson. Shall I tell it here, sir ? 
 Connery. Yes, the quicker the better. 
 
52 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Dawson. I did like you said, sir, and kept my eyes and 
 ears open. 
 
 Conyiery. Go on Dawson ; go on Dudly. Don't be 
 stopping. 
 
 DawHO)i. Well, sir, as I was going to say, Mr. Dil- 
 wortliy came to the club and told nie he was going away, 
 and to fix him a lunch and some cocktail ; and it is you, sir, 
 who praises my cocktail. 
 
 Connery. Boy, Daw — never mind the cocktail — tell us 
 what Dil worthy did? 
 
 Dawson. I kept him waiting, and I told Mr. Keyburn. 
 They, sir, had a very stormy time but Mr. Dilworthy signed 
 the paper, and then left. All of them said it was a confes- 
 sion, which fully exonerated Miss Rentwine, but that if Cap- 
 tain Rentwine ever laid eyes on him, there'd be one less 
 society scoundrel. 
 
 Connery. Good, good I Where is Billy ? 
 DaiDSOii. He'll be here quickly, sir. 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 [Enter Sones. 
 Sone.'<. [Mrcitej/ly.] Such news; such news. Mr. Dil- 
 worthy is a defaulter on the Stock Exchange and has fled. 
 Before leaving he wrote a confession, which proves Miss 
 Rentwine thepure, charitable angel we all knew her to be. 
 Cannery. There now. we knew all that. Cyn, take him 
 one side. Take the bulge on him ; control him now and you 
 won't have so much trouble after awhile. [ Sones and Miss 
 Connery walk aside. 
 
 [ Bell rings. 
 [ Enter Rcyhnrn. 
 Mrs. Rentwine. Mr. Reyburn, we've justheard from you. 
 Allow me to thank you. [ Shakes him by both hands. 
 
 Reyburn. Yes, Madam, everything is coming our way 
 to-day. Society, fickle as fortune, has already changed, and 
 vour daughter is praised by all. 
 
 [ Connrry whispers to his sister and she goes out quickly, taking 
 
 Mrs. Rentujine with her. He whispers to Reyburn and he 
 
 takes with him all in the room except Connery. 
 
 Connery. " Conscience makes cowards of us all, ' but 
 
 love restores our courage. Ah, well, I'll soon know my fate. 
 
 If she won't forgive me I'll leave St. Louis forever. 
 
 [Enter Miss Rentwine. 
 
TALKED ABOUT. 53 
 
 Miss Rentwine. \_Col(lly.'] Good morning, Mr. Connery. 
 [ Seats herself some distance from him. 
 
 Connery. Cou — Miss iientwine, 1 suppose it must be 
 painful for you to converse with me, and 1 will be as brief 
 as possible. 
 
 Miss Hentivine. ' For your efforts in my behalf, and on 
 your dear sister's account, I can be patient* 
 
 Connery. It is due you and myself to say a few things 
 before I bid you and my sister a long farewell. 
 
 Miss Hentn-ine. Are you going away, sir ? I was very 
 angry and excited, but I could not exact such a saciiliee, sir. 
 I could not bear for you to leave your sister. 
 
 Connery. Sister will soon be a wife; I trust a happy 
 one. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. I congratulate her with all my heart. 
 
 Connery. May I hope for your forgiveness after I'm 
 gone. I'm a changed man. You have convinced me of the 
 power of a pure, noble, virtuous w^oman. From such an one 
 surely, I may hope for mercy. 
 
 3Iiss Rentwine. I've buried my secret in my own heart. 
 I freely forgive you on condition that you do not leave your 
 dear, good sister. [ Offers her hand, ichich he shakes thankfully. 
 
 Connery. ^ Cousin Sue, for if you forgive me, I may again 
 call you cousin, your condition is a hard, hard one. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. I can't understand you ; I think you 
 should wish to live near your sister. 
 
 Co7inery.^ Yes, yes I w^ould, if in living near her, I did 
 not have to live so far from you. Cousin Sue, I never thought 
 any Avoman would be indispensable to my happiness, but I 
 offer you an unconditional surrender of my heart and for- 
 tune. You are a good woman ; wnth your help, I believe I 
 can be a good man. Will you be my wnfe ? 
 
 31iss Rentwine. Your devotion in my distress and your 
 honest love, have won an honest return. Cousin Bob, I'll be 
 your loving, true wife. [ They embrace and kiss. 
 
 [Enttr all the comjmny except Dilworthy. 
 
 Reyburn. Ah, I see you have realized what I hoped and 
 expected. Cupid has played many tricks, but this is God's 
 work. 
 
 Miss Connery. Sue, I am so happy. The sujilight of 
 hope has taken the place of the clouds that hovered o'er us. 
 
54 TALKED ABOUT. 
 
 Miss Rentwine. Mr. Reyburn, you shall never leave us. 
 The old aytor shall have a warm place in our hearts, and a 
 favorite corner in our home. 
 
 Connelly. Brother Sones, you must beseech the Lord to 
 forgive Billy, and really I don't think He's got much against 
 him. When the double wedding comes oft" and we take our 
 bridal tour on the North Star with Captain Rentwine, won't 
 we be Talkkd About? 
 
 [ Curtain. 
 
 The End. 
 
TALKED ABOUT! 
 
 A COMEDY DRAMA 
 
 IN 
 
 FOUR ACTS 
 
 BY 
 
 CH^RT^ES E. ^W^maHT. 
 
 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 
 
 COPYRIGHT SECURED BY THE AUTHOR. 
 
 VicKSBTRr, Printing and Publishing Comvanv, 
 
 VICKSBURG, MISS. : 
 
 December, 1895. 
 

 
 
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