NO PLAY^ EXCHANGED. '\hLK5 Edition or PLAY3 OUR WIVES Price, 25 Cents I « Salter iTdakek ^cq. BOSTON It.,..-.:.. ■-->■:... .^.^.-Jr ^itfenr-rTrr.d'***-^^?— -— . COPYRIGHT, 1889, BY WAtTCR H. BAKER 4 CO- ^rite, dO Center €acl^ THE AMA70NS ^^^^^ ^" Three Acts. Seven males, ve ^einaies. Costumes, modern ; scenery, not diffi<^iilt Plays a full evening. THE CABINET MINISTER ^arce in Four Acts. Tenn>aie. .iiine females. Costumes, modeni so^^.iety ? Bcenety, three interiors. Plays a full evening. DANDY DICK ^*''*'® ^° Three Acts. Seven males, four lemaies. Costumes, modem ; scenery, two interiorSo PHyt two hours and a half< THE GAY LORD OCEX ^o™®^y ^° 'Pomt Acts. Four male.** ten ^ females. Costumes, modern ; sce»flrv. two interiors and an exterior. Plays a full evening. HIS HODSF IN ORDER C<^°i3<^7i^F<^^^^<'^B- Nine males, fol ^^ females. Costumes, modern ; sceneiv? three interiors. Plays a full evening. THE HORRY HORSE ^<'™®*^y "^ Three Acts, Ten males, five females. Costumes, modem ; scenery easy Plays two hours and a half. IRIS I^i^AiuA ^ ^i'^^ -^^^9° Seven males, seven females. Costumes, modem ; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. I ADY ROHNTIFTII ^^^^ ^° Four Acts. Eight males, seven fe- males. Costumes, moderu ; scenery, four in- teriors, not easy Plays a full evening. I ETTY ^''*™* *^ Four Acts and an Epilogue. Ten malesj five fe- males. Costumes, modem ; scenery complicated Plays a full evening Sent prepaid on receipt of price by a^altet ^. TSaUt & Company No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts Our Wives A Farce in Three Acts By ANTHONY E. WILLS Author of ''All Charley s Faulty' ''A Regiment of Two I' ''Liberty Corner si' "Fighting for Freedom,'* etc. BOSTON WALTER H. BAKER & CO. 1910 icks it up). And your father's ! {All business.) '"^ ''''^' ' ^'"'' '^ OUR WIVES 15 Gil. {finally nervously taking c). Pardon me — (takes hats from theni) but they belong to these two gentlemen. (^Offers Oscar silk hat and Mal. straw one.) Beatme } iP'"'^^'"^)- But I (Gil. winks at Mal. a7id Oscar.) Oscar ')(tinderstafiding; emphatically'). Yes — to us! Mal. j ( With sweeping bows.) Ladies — good-morning. {Place hats on heads, lock arms and pompously exeunt door c.) Beattie (staggered). , Did I ever ? Mrs. C. I could have sworn that was my husband's hat. (Gil., 7p to door at back, looks off an instant ; Mrs. C. glances back at her; theii down r. ; ^j-/^ j Enter Gtl c, wearing traveling cloak as before, and fol- lowed by Jul., carryi7ig bags a7id bu7idles. hubb^* ^'^''^'' ^"^ ^^^" ^""^^'"'Shim on shoulder). Heigho-- Dev. {tur7ii7ig a7id catcJmig her by ha7id ; joyfully). Ah. my dear—here you are. "^ -^^ ' ■ Gil. Yes, dear, at last. {Draws ha7id away. To Tul ^ You can put those things in my room, Julia. '^ OUR WIVES 23 Jul. Oui, madame. (^Off v..) Dev. I've been trying to get word to you the last half hour. (Anxiously.') And now tell me — how did it go? Gil. (removing hat and cloak). The opera, you mean ? Dev. Yes. Gil. Not as smoothly as it should have — but Herr Siebel, the composer, has made several changes since the premier per- formance, which augur well for the success of the enterprise. Dev. (disappointedly). I'm sorry for tliat. You know, my dear, how greatly I abhor theatricals, especially where you are concerned. I had hoped, when you became my wife, to over- come these aspirations on your part — but alas, I appear to have been unsuccessful. Gil. It is the one hobby, dear, to me, and surely you wouldn't Dev. Now don't let's go all over that again. I know your liking and all that— and yet I had hoped for a failure of your present starring vehicle. Gil. (surprised). You had hoped for it? Dev. (slowly nodding head in assent). Yes— anything to discourage you. I believed a failure might cause you to retire from the stage once and for all times. Gil. You surprise me. Dev. My dear, you know my great wealth. I have given you country houses, Swiss chalets, yachts, motor-cars, and everything one could desire. I should imagine you would be willing to give up this silly notion just to please me. Gil. (her arms about his shoulders). There, there, you don't understand the fascination of the thing. Dev. Fascination indeed. Bah ! Is there any fascination in appearing in a failure? Gil. Oh, but the opera hasn't proven a failure as yet. Dev. (anxiously). Ah — then if it does? Gil. Why, I suppose that would xmkQ a difference. (Goes to C, and takes up cloak and hat.) I do beheve, hubby, that Myou weren't so antagonistic — /wouldn't be so anxious for the stage. (At door, r., laughingly.) It's the things beyond our reach that we always seem to want. (Off k.) \)YN. (bitterly). I was right— I was right. Gilda only mar- ried me for my money. I'm good enough to pay the bills. But never mind, Stanton may have news for me. In the event of which I'll firmly put my foot down (Brings down bandaged foot heavily on floor, then sets up a yell and jumps 24 OUR WIVES Up and down on o tie foot.) Ouch— but not that way ! No, not that way ! Efiter Jul., hurriedly from r. Jul. Ah, m'sieur, anything wrong ? Dev. {angrily-). No, everytliing's right. {In commanding tone.) Here, take hold and get my foot back on that hassock. Jul. Oui, oui, m'sieur. {Kneels beside hi?n and takes hold of his foot.) Dev. And stop that— {imitating her) " wee-wee ' ' business ' {Gives a start.) Ouch! Be careful, will you? You're as clumsy as {Gives another cry.) Oh, what a set! {^loivly lowers hmiself on chair and directs Jul ) Gently now—gently There-thafs it— now slowly. {Sinks in chair With a sigh.) At last_at last ! (Jul., holding his foot sus- pended over hassock, suddenly lets go hold Dev., as foot falls on hassock, gives a cry.) O-h ! {Tlmi, laith flashing eyes, brandishes cane.) I knew it, you little vixen ! You did It on purpose. Jul. (c, trembling). No, no, m'sieur. , j^'^''- . X"""'"^ ^ ^^■''^'^^ '^'^^'^ »^^y wife— your mistress. {Brandishes cane ) Begone ! I'll discharge the whole house- hold ! Begone, I say ! Jul. {starting c). Yes, m'sieur. dozvi c. Dev. changes tone.) I suppose you kept your eyes well open while away? ^ .^^ui c_ycs Jul. {puzzled). Oui, oui, m'sieur. rn?^^' /^f^ ^^^^ -wee- wee" business. {Glances around went^f '^'''' ''^''''' ^A«^///^.) And noted everything that ;i r!!''/"';/'^^'''?!■• ^^^''^' ^^^^P^ hands quickly over moutli. Confusedly.) I beg ze pardon, m'sieur. NowTake?hi:,^l.yllI:f!Ll"'^ ^''''" ^'''^^ -^ '^^- ^-0 Jul. {taking it). Oh, thank you, m'sieur. iJfT'"^ ^^;.//.//./K around; in loud whispers), and tell me what you saw ^ J^^e^"'t:^^^"'' '"""'""^'y --«''. '>-» in loud Dev. {eagerly ; in loud 7Msfers). Everything! OUR WIVES ^5 Jul. Well, I — I didn't see anytJmig, m'sieur. Dev. {angrily). Begone ! Clear out ! Jul. (at door j c). Oui, oui, m'sieur. \^Exity laughingly. Dev. {letting out a roar). The servants are one and all in league with her. I don't see what a hold Gilda has on them. I am always kind and gentle — yet they bow and scrape before me as if 1 were a tyrant. {E?iter Stan., suddenly through fireplace i l. Dev. gives a start.) Stanton ! Stan. At your service ! {Fi?iger to lips.) S-h ! {Cautiously up to c, and looks off, then down to c. Strikes pose. ) Dev. {puzzled). Whatever made you come that way? Stan. I have no time to waste in explanation. Suffice it when I say — I'm here. Dev. {anxiously). Anything n^w? Stan, {glancing around, then taking out note-book). I watched your wife's apartments from a boat for three long days. Dev. Yes, yes, but get down to facts. Forget the details. Enter Jul., door c, then observing Stan., draws behind screen and intently listens. Stan. Well, I tracked two men to her rooms. Dev. {rubbing hands together). Good. Were they young or old ? Stan. Both. Dev. And their names ? Stan. Didn't manage that. Dev. {disappointedly). The most important thing of all. You should have followed them to their hotels when they walked out. Stan. The trouble is — they didn't 7valk. Dev. Ridiculous ! Stan. But came out in your wife's trunks. Dev. {staggered). You — you don't mean it. (Jul. withdraws, c.) Stan. Once I was sure they'd quitted the rooms, I made for the depot and got there just in time to see the trunks put on the train. You can bet I camped right alongside o' them till a6 OUR WIVES we landed in New York, and from the groans I heard every time the car jostled a bit, I know my two friends had rough going. Dev. And later developments ? Stan. Dere ain't been none. The trunks are on der way here now. I seen 'em both put safe on de express wagon. I thought it best to have 'em brought right up here. Dev. {bitterly). Yes — yes ! I'll make the scoundrels an- swer to me — instead of the courts. Armed to the teeth, I will personally superintend the opening of those trunks. {Then changes tone. ) But what of the opera ? Stan. Well, boss, ;t's a toss-up. Some say it'll be a go — others jes' the opposite. It all depends on to-night. Dev. It must be a failure. Stan. Your sayin' so won't make it one Dev. Ah, but I've thought out a plan. (Glances around before speaking.) You must engage half a dozen lieutenants, hire dress suits for all, purchase the best orchestra seats, and attend to-night's performance. Stan. I'm on — I'm wise. You want us to queer the show. Dev. Exactly. Your party must hiss, jeer and cat- call from the rise of the curtain. It will influence the rest of the audience and the critics, and insure the failure of the piece. Stan. Sounds well — but how will I look wearin' a dress suit ? Dev. {risifig). Lend me your arm. (Supports himself on Stan. 's arm atid crosses l.) There are a number of details to decide upon to insure the success of our venture. Come quietly. My wife must not know you are here. \_Exit off L., with Stan., groaning at each step. Enter Jul., cautiously y c. Jul. Oh, I must tell madame. (Over to door, r., and knocks on same.) Gil. (from within). Who is it? Jul. (nervously). Julia. I must see you at once, madame. Efiter GiL.,yrom R. Gil. You're all unstrung. What is it, Julia ? Jul. The trunks are below, madame. Gil. (starting). Goodness ! what are we to do ? OUR WIVES 27 Jul. And the worst of it is — your husband knows every- thing. Gil. Gracious — who could have ? Jul. Ze detective told him. He is here now. They are going to open the trunks and your husband will be what you Americans call — {endeavors to recall words) what ees it again ? {Suddenly.) Oh, yes — '' armed to ze teeth." Gil. {fiervously). Where is my husband now ? Jul. {pointing r.). In hees room. Gil. In the rear of the house ? Good! (T'^Jul.) Have the trunks brought up here immediately. Jul. {surprised). Here? {Then adds.) But ze men- folks, madame? Gil. I'll see that they get safely away. Hurry, Julia. Jul. Oui, madame. \^Exit hurriedly^ door at back. Gil. {nervously wringing hands). Hubby was right. Why, oh, why did I ever return to the stage ? {Enter two express- men, door Q., each wheeling a trunk on hand- trunk trucks ; Gil., nervously.) Put the trunks right here. {Expressmen set trunks R. c, and v.. c. Gil. hands them coin from purse.) Thank you so much. {Expressme7i exit, c. Gil., nervously to door c. Calls off.) Julia ! Julia ! Etiter Jul., door c. Jul. Yes, madame. Gil. {handing her trunk key). Quick ! We must release them before it is too late. (Gil. and Jul. each unstrap and unlock trunk and lift tops. Chan, and Blair are discovered seated in trunks. Both have black eyes, their hair is disheveled, and their clotJmig badly torn.) Jul. Hurry, hurry. You must get away. Chan, {sadly). I can hardly move. Gil. How you must have suffered. Blair {sadly). You don't know what we went through. Chan, {sadly). Well, you can bet /do. {Looks around.) Where are we, anyway ? Gil. You're in my house. Blair {starting). Your house? Chan. New York or London? Gil. New York, of course. 28 OUR WIVES Chan. I feel as if I'd traveled a century. Gil. {7iervously). You'll have to be going. My hus- band ;- Blair | ^.^ surprise). Your husband ? Chan. Must we also meet him ? Blair. I don't feel equal to it, in my present weakened condition. Gil. Hurry, hurry. Blair {moaning). I can hardly move. Chan. {co77ifortably reclining in trunk). I don't want to. Gil. (Jo Jul.). Take hold, Julia. Every minute counts. ( Takes hold of Blair under arms. ) Jul. ^taking hold of Cnk-ii.). Are you ready? {Counts.) One, two • Chan, {protesting). AVait ! I'm aches and pains all over. I can better manage it alone. {Then, after several efforts^ finally succeeds i?i getting out of truTik and sits on edge, breath- ifig hard. Feels of arins.) I'll bet I'm black and blue all over. (Gil. meanwhile has been having trouble with Blair.) Blair {finally sitting on edge of trunk). I'll never forget that trip as long as I live. Chan, {sadly). Neither will I. {To Blair.) Say, Wal- ter, do you remember that bump we got day before yesterday? Gil. Day before yesterday? Why, you've only been in the trunks four hours. Chan. ) r> , ^ Blair. [Fo"-^ hours? Chan. {shaki?ig head). And I imagined it at least a month. Jul. {nervously, to Gil.). M'sieur will be coming. Gil. You're right. {To Chan, ^i;/^/ Blair.) Come, you must be going. Chan. \ {on feet, looking themselves over). What — and in Blair j this rig ? Blair. I'd rather go back to the trunk. {Places one foot in trunk.) Chan. I've got to go back. {Sa7ne business.) OUR WIVES 29 Gil. (catchtjjg him by ami). No, no — you're risking your life. Chan. What's the difference? I'm half dead now. Gil. I'll find you some of my husband's clothing. In the meantime, get into that room. {Points r.) Blair. ) .,, • , , Chan. | ^" "§'''• {Make step toward r. , and then begin to ivaver. Gil. and Jul. catch them and hold them up as they are about to fall.) Blair. I feel as if I'd just stepped off a ship. Chan, (sadly). And I — from out of a threshing-machine. ^^M We'll help you. {Matiage to get them off r., as enter Oscar, door c, still wearing straw hat and carrying several valises.) Oscar. By golly, , dot's ober a walk from der depot here. Und I got such a cold in der head. (Sneezes ; then apolo- getically.) Oscuse me, blease. (Looks around.) Oh, I am alone. I only hope she has came home already. (Enter Gil., hurriedly from R., closing door.) Ah, dere you are. (Sneezes.) Oscuse me, blease. I caught such a cold in der train. It stays in der head. I came to run over der new scene mit you. Gil. (spinning him out of the way). Oh, I haven't time now. You'll have to call later. \_Exit, door c. Oscar (surprised). By golly, dot's a reception for you. (Up to door c, looks after her.) Now I wonder what's der reason ? E titer Jul., door r., quickly down to trunks, closing tops with a bang. Oscar, at door c, starts afid watches her, finally giving a loud sneeze. Jul. (starting). What was that? Oscar (c, with broad sfnile). Me. Jul. (turning). How you frightened me. Oscar (ivith sweeping bow). Oscuse me, blease. I got a cold in der head. Jul. (ijidigftant). Well, I'm glad you've got something there. (Starts R.) Oscar (catching her by wrist). Shust one minute. 30 OUR WIVES Jul. (^puzzled). Well, what is it, m'sieur ? Oscar (looking around). Tell me, what is der trouble mit your mistress ? Jul. Trouble? {Surprised.) Why, nothing, m'sieur. Oscar. Oh, it is someding der matter, I know. Shust now she spin me around like a top, und dis morning she introduce me as her brother or fodder — I fergit which. Jul. {seizing him by wrist and placing Jinger to lips). S-h. (^Glances cautiously around, then brings him down stage.) Oscar (watching her closely, then quickly glancing aroutid hijnself. Aside). What's going to happen now ? Jul. (confidentially). We didn't have time to explain things, but I will do so now. (/;; loud whispers.) Listen ! Oscar (in loud zahispers). Y-e-s. Jul. When madame said that you were her father, she said it because Oscar (anxiously). Yes — because why ? Jul. Because (Door- bell rings off. Jul. starts.) Who can that be? (Quickly.) Oh — and 1 forgot to tell Cora not to open the door for any one. (To Oscar.) Just a minute. (Starts for c.) Oscar (after her). Yes, yes — but hold on, you didn't tell me der Enter Gil., hurriedly, door c, ca^-rying a bundle of clothing. ^ Gil. (calling). Julia, Julia, where are you? Jul. Here, madame. Gil. (excitedly). It's Mrs. Chandler and her daughter. Cora let them in. Jul. Oh, I'm so sorry. It's all my fault. What are we to do? Gil. (to Jul.). They'd better not see you ! Oscar (anxiously). And your fodder ? Gil. (/^ Oscar). Or _>'^/^, either. Oscar \ ^^^^^y ^i^^^^^ing about). Where can we go? Gil. Hide, — hide! Under the sofa — anywhere! (At door R.) Meanwhile I'll give the men some of my husband's old clothes. (Off ^.) Jul. (suddenly). I have it. The trunks ! OUR WIVES 31 Oscar (^puzzled^. Say, what is dis, anyway? A luna- ticalum ? Jul. Oh, don't ask questions. {Opens trunk.) Here, get in ze trunk. {Forces him in.) Hurry, hurry ! So. {Then gets in other trunk herself.) Oscar (/« trunk; business). By golly, dis is a new one on me. (Jul. and Oscar lower trunk tops.) Gil. {coming on, r., calling off). Now do be careful — and remember your wives. {Closes door.) Enter Dev., from l., assisted by Stan. Dev. Ah, I thought I heard the front bell ring. {Rubs hands together and surveys trunks.) So your trunks have come at last? {To Stan.) Perhaps we're too late. (Oscar, in trunk, sneezes.) Stan. Did you hear that? That's the old fellow ! He's caught a cold. Dev. {brandishing cane). He'll catch something else, the moment I set eyes on him. {To Stan.) Now, then — to your work. {Enter Mrs. C. and Beattie, door at back. Stan. steps down to trunks. Dev., surprised, looks at ladies.) Hello ! And who might these ladies be ? Gil. Friends of mine. Mrs. C. {haughtily). Friends no longer. We have learned the truth. Dev. {a?txiously). The truth? What truth? {To Gil.) Who are these ladies ? Gil. (troubled). Why — why Mrs. C. We will introduce ourselves. I am Mrs. Chand- ler, wife of Roswell Chandler, and this — {referring to Beattie) is my daughter, Mrs. Blair. Dev. {2vith sarcasm). In other words, you are the wives of the backers of "The Fleur-de-lis." Mrs. C. {surprised). "Fleur-de-lis"! Beattie {iTidigna?it). I should say not. Mrs. C. It's bad enough our husbands should be infatu- ated with this song-bird. {Refers to Gil.) 3^ OUR WIVES Stan, {his attention arrested). Ah, then you are the wives of the two men who I tracked to the apartments. Gil. {surprised ; with flashing eyes). Then I was right. You are Stan, {with thumbs in vest). John Stanton, the detective ! Gil. {handkerchief to eyes ; to Dev.). Oh, how could you be so cruel ? {Sinks on chair and buries eyes in hander chief on table.) Dev. {firmly). I felt it my duty. I had reason to suspect the truth. Beattie {to Mrs. C., brokenly). You were right after all; they have deceived us. {Weeps ofi Mrs. C.'s shoulder.) Mrs. C. Be calm, my child. I was certain of it, the mo- ment I found their coats in the room. Stan, {to Dev.). You see, boss, I was not mistaken. Beattie {brokenly). But where, oh where, to find them ! Stan, {pompously). L'adies, I believe I can do that for you. ( Crosses to right of r. tru7ik. Dev. lijnps left of other. ^TA'ii. drazus a revolver. 71? Dev.) Belter be ready. They're liable to give us a tussle. Dev. {drawi7ig a large oldfashioned revolver from coat pocket and taking hold of top of trunk). I'm ready for any- thing. Stan. Then, ladies, behold — your husbands ! (Dev. and Stan, simultaneously lift tops of trunks ^ expos- ing Jul. and Oscar to view. Gil., now realizing truth y laughs heartily. Mrs. C. and Beattie stand aghast. Dev. and Stan, are astonished.) Oscar {sneezing). Oscuse me, blease — I got a cold in der head. Dev. {looking at Jul.). My wife's maid ! {Then to Oscar.) But who are you, sir? Oscar {standi?ig up in trunk). Ober blease, I would rather not Dev. {emphatically). Who are you, sir ? Oscar {appealing to Gil.). Dot's it — who am I ? Dev. {emphatically). Answer me ! {Stamps bandaged foot, then jumps up and down in great pain.) OUR WIVES 33 Oscar {troubled^. Well, since you are so anxious. I am your wife's sister. All. What ? O'iQk^ {business). No, no — her brother (Stammers.) I got dot mixed — I should say, her fodder. Dev. a vagabond — a lunatic — I vow ! (Angrily.) Clear out, you good-for-nothing, and lose no time. Oscar (cofifusedly out of trunk and edging toward door c). I'm only too glad to git der chance. (Sneezes.) Oscuse me, I got a cold in der head. (Off door at back.) Stan. He'll bear watching. I intend to track him to his lair. (Up to door c.) Dev. (disgusted). Well, it's about time you did something besides draw your salary. Don't forget to-night. Stan, (drawing himself to a height). See here, boss, John Stanton never forgets anything. (Off door c.) Dev. (to Jul.). And as for you, you can consider your notice given. After the first of the month, I'll have no further need of your services. Jul. (pleadingly). But, m'sieur. Dev. (limping on foot to \..). Not another word. That is final. (Jul., with handkerchief to eyes, off c.^ goes L., loudly weeping. Dev., to Mrs. C. and Beattie.) I'm sorry, ladies, to have disappointed you. But better luck next time. If you will step into the library, I shall be pleased to hear your stories. Mrs. C. Thank you, sir. (To Beattie.) Come, dear, it will be some relief to unburden our sad experiences to a sympathetic listener. (Her arm about Beattie, leads her L. Turns to Dev.) Thank you so much. (Off together, l.) Dev. (to Gil.). Now, then, madam, I wish you to under- stand that I have not been deceived by the trunk episode. Until I have your promise to retire from tlie footlights — (dra- matically) never speak to me again. (Off door l.) Gil. (despairingly). Oh, what shall I do ? Unless this awful mix-up is satisfactorily explained, I'll very likely lose my husband, home and everything. (Wrings hands.) Oh, why — oh, why didn't I heed his advice from the first? Blair (from within, R.). Can we come in now? Gil. (nervously). Wait. (Glances around ; then pushes door R. open.) Yes; but please hurry off, (Comes down l.) Enter Chan, and Blair, both wearing badly-fitting clothing. '34 OUR WIVES Blair's being much too tight for him^ and Chan.'s much too loose. Both appear ludicrous. Chan. | ho\v do we look ? Blair, j * Gil. {looking them over). Gracious ! Simply awful 1 (Chan, and Blair look themselves over.") Blair. Do you know, we sort of had that notion ourselves. Chan, (^nervously). And the detective ? Gil. Just left a moment ago. Blair. I'll bet two pins he's laying for us down-stairs. Chan. Let him lay. He won't catch me going down. Gil. {emphatically). Well, you can't remain here like this. Blair. No, and we can't go away like this. {Refers to clothing.') Gil. It will be suicide if you stay. Chan, {looking himself over). And it'll be worse than that if we venture forth. Gil. {wildly f c). And now I want you to know that I've resigned from the company. Blair. Resigned from the company ? Gil. Yes, I'm through with the stage forever. Blair (pleadingly). But you can't leave us this way. Look at our investment ! Chan. Every dollar will be lost. Gil. I can't help that. I should never have crossed my husband's wishes. Chan. But what of ours? Surely, you're not going to quit on a moment's notice? Gil. Yes, I'm through right now. Blair. No, no, you can't. We'll hold you to your two weeks' clause ! Gil. {defiant). Oh, you will, will you? Well, we'll see about that. Chan, {oti knees, pleadijigly). No, no, we didn't mean to say just that. Blair {oji knees, other side of her). Forgive me, I 'Chan. At least see us through the opening night. OUR WIVES 35 Blair. In the meantime, perhaps we can arrange for a sub- stitute. Only don't desert us; we'll lose everything if you do. Chan, {ready to cry). I'll be worse than bankrupt. {Door-bell rings below.) Gil. {starting). Probably the detective again. Chan. | {^nervously appealing to her). Please say you won't Blair | desert us — at least until to-morrow. Gil. {nervously). Quick — hide somewhere. Chan. By Jove ! not until you promise. Blair {firmly). We're desperate now. Come, your an- swer. Gil. Well, since you force me to speak and I have no al- ternative, I won't resign until to-morrow. Blair {lifting trunk top). Ah, that, at least, gives us hope. Chan, {lifting other trunk top). Which is about allwQ have got. Gil. {excitedly). Hurry, hurry. (Chan, and Blair climb into trunks.) Chan, {sadly). There's no place hke home. {They close tops.) Gil. {sighing in relief). Thank goodness, they weren't seen. It would have been dreadful. {Moves r.) Enter Mal., hurriedly, door at back. Mal. Pardon my intrusion in this abrupt manner, but I'm looking for the wives of Messrs. Roswell Chandler and Walter Blair. Eftter 'D'EN.jfrotn L. Dev. They are here, sir. {Calls off.) Ladies! Enter Mrs. C. and Beattie, anxiously, from L. Mrs C ") -D '' ')■ {anxiously to Mal.'). What is it? Beattie j ^ -^ -' Beattie {eagerly). I can see by your face something has happened. 36 OUR WIVES Mal. {taking c). It has. {To Mrs. C. and Beattie.) Ladies, your husbands were both at Atlantic City this forenoon ? BEATTm } Q*'^^^h^^^^^y)' Y^s, yes. Mal. As a reporter, it is my duty to obtain the news. I have news for you. Mrs. C. I (^^jjxi^n^iyy Qo on— go on ! Mal. {handing Mrs. C. piece of paper). Is that your hus- band's handwriting? {Then hands another piece to Beattie.) And yours? T» f {^(ich quickly scanning paper). Yes, yes. Mal. Those notes were found in the *'Sea Breeze Hotel " just after you had taken your departure. Beattie {looki?tg at paper). What's this? {Reads aloud.) " When you read this, I will have put an end to my misery." Mrs. C. {reading from her paper). ** I can no longer stand the terrific strain." Beattie [ (^^^^^'^^^ ^'f)- ^^ <^oesn't mean ? Mal. {sloivly fiodding head in affirmative). It is my pain- ful duty to speak the truth. Those letters, with the finding of their coats, conclusively prove — [distinct/y) that both your husbands have committed suicide ! Mrs. C. {giving a cry and fainting in Dev.'s arms). Poor Roswell ! Beattie {same instant fainting in Gil.'s arms). Poor Walter ! (Chan, and Blair half-way raise tops of trunks, and unseen by others^ exchatige glances as the curtain descends.) CURTAIN ACT III SCENE. — The same. Time^ evening. Two trunks in santi position as in previous act. Enter Jul., door c, with two newspapers, Jul. {looking cautiously about, then tiptoeing to door r., looks off, after which comes down C, and knocks on both trunks). Are you in ? Chan. | {lifting tops of trunks and bobbing heads out). Blair | Don't we look it? Jul. {finger to lips). S-h, not too loud. M'sieur is in ze next room. {Poi?tts r.) Blair. Have you the evening papers ? Jul. Yes. {Hands one to each.) Chan, {eagerly). Now to learn the worst. Blair {scanning paper). Don't we know that already? {Suddenly.) Hello. {Reads.) ''Retired broker and son-in- law commit suicide." Chan, (sitting up in trunk, sadly shaking head). Then it wasn't a joke. They really believe us dead, after all. Blair {sitting up). Just listen. {Reads.) ** Throw them- selves in the sea at Atlantic City after writing farewell notes." Chan, {bitterly). I knew those confounded notes would get us into trouble. It's all your fault. Blair. , 'Tis not. Chan. 'Tis. Blair. Oh, very well. Have it your way, then. Listen. {Reads.) ''Bodies not recovered as yet." Chan, {feeling of shoulder). And mine never will, from the looks of things. Blair {reading). "Not known what reason they may have had " Chan, {shaking head). We know. Blair {continuing). "but is generally attributed by their friends to a sudden attack of insanity." Chan. Now we're crazy, too. Anything else? Jul. Ze papers are just full of it. Got your pictures and everything. They all think you drowned. 37 ^8 OUR WIVES Chan. Well, I'll starve to death, that's certain, unless I soon get something to eat. Jul. {feelingly). Are you hungry, m'sieur? Chan | (f^^S^^^^^)- Are we hungry ? Chan. I haven't had a morsel of anything since morning. Jul. I'm so sorry. Just wait. [Up to door c.) I will try to get you something. Chan. Don't be particular. A steak — French chop — roast fowl — anything like that will do. Blair {throwing Jul. kiss). You're a dear. Jul. {at door c). It will not be an easy matter without ze cook knowing it — but I will do ze best I can. {Off door c.) Chan I ^°^^'^ ^^ ^°"^ ' Blair {looking at paper). Shall I read the rest of it? Chan. No, I'm satisfied we're in an awful stew. Blair. If only we had some clothing. Chan, {whining). If only we had a lot of things. Do you know, I've about made up my mind not to disappoint the papers. Blair {surprised). You mean — by committing suicide? Chan. Just what. We've got to do something. Blair. Why not make a clean breast of it and throw our- selves on the mercy of our wives? Chan. Horrible ! I'd rather throw myself under a steam roller. Blair. Well, what are we to do ? Enter Gil., dressed for the street y R. '^ Chan, {looking at Gil.). Ah, you alone can help us. Gil. {co7ning doiun c). Haven't I done everything possible to get you out of those trunks ? Blair. Yes — but the fact is — we don't want to get out — just yet. Chan, {sadly). No; home was never like this. Gil. {brokenly). It was cruel of you to draw me into your affair. Blair. We haven't done all the drawing. There have been other artists. Gil. Well, after my two weeks' notice expires, I want it distinctly understood I'm no longer a member of the company. OUR WIVES 39 Blair (overjoyed). Ah, then you're going to give us at least two weeks Gil. (firmly). Yes. I've decided it is only right, that no matter what tlie cost, I ouglit to live up to the contract I signed. Blair {clapping hands). Bravo! Gil. I will prepare the usual notice and be prepared to de- liver it immediately after the performance to-night. {Then suddenly glances r.) S-h — my husband ! (Chan, and Blair lower trunk tops and disappear from view.) Enter Dev., limping on cane, door R. Dev. Ah, I see you're still here. Gil. (nervously). Yes. I wanted to ask you to reconsider your decision with reference to Dev. (emphatically bringing down cane)... Not unless you resign from the company at once. Gil. (pleadingly). But I've already told you so many times it would be unfair for me to desert my managers with- out giving them time to get some one in my stead. Dev. My word must be law. Either I am to be obeyed or Gil. (firmly). Much as I would like to do what you ask, I feel it my duty to live up to the contract I entered into. Dev. As you will. (Waves her off.) There's no further need to discuss the subject. (Abruptly.) Good-night. (Starts for door R.) Gil. Very well, then. ■ Good-night. [^Exit, c. Dev. (halting at door r. and slowly turriing). Hello. She's gone ! (Limps up to c. door.) Here — hold on ! (Looks off.) I thought by being a little abrupt, I'd bring her to her senses. (Shakes head.) Gad, she's a will of her own. iVnd yet, after all, I don't much blame her for insisting on carrying out the terms of her contract. (Proudly.) In fact, I give her credit for it. Only, it will make me look mighty small unless I manage by hook or crook, in some way or other, to get the upper hand. (Enter Mai.., hurriedly door c, looking back. Unknowingly collides with Dev.) You confounded idiot ! Mal. (turning and espying Dev.). Oh, hello, old man, just the party I am looking for. 40 OUR WIVES Dev. {starting for '^.'). Guess you want to see my wife. Mal. {catching him by arm). Just met her on the stairs. Asked her a simple question and she whirled me around like a top. That's a habit she's got. Dev. {sharply). The matter does not concern me, sir. What do you want here, anyway ? Mal. {taking note-book from pocket). I'm after a story for my paper. Perhaps you would care to Dev. {a7igrily). I don't care to do anything. Mal. Yes, but your wife is the star of Dev. Will you leave me alone? {Emphatically.) I tell you I don't care to discuss this or any other subject with you, sir. Mal. {catching him by arm again, and turning him as he is about to go). But it is rumored that you and your wife con- template a divorce Dev. {starting). Eh? What? How's that? It's an in- famous falsehood* ! Mal. {hurriedly writing in book). Divorce denied ! {Looks up.) The thing's common gossip. Dev. There's altogether too much gossip in New York. That's why I've made up my mind to return to Europe. Mal. {writing). Ah — "returning to Europe." {Looks up.) On what steamer, please? Dev. {clappiftg hand over mouth). Oh, I didn't mean to speak to you, sir. {Anxiously.) Have you been writing that down? {Brandishes cane.) You reporters are a common nuisance. Leave me alone, sir ! I've nothing to say for publi- cation ! Nothing ! It's all my wife's fault I'm pestered this way. I'd give thirty thousand dollars to break her theatrical contract. Mal. {writing in book). Thirty thousand dollars, you say? {Looks up.) Maybe I can fix it for you. Dev. {furious). Leave me — leave me ! Mal. {handing him business card). Have a card. I'm also in the real estate and brokerage business and can sell any- thing from a Dev. {7vildly, as he exits R.). .Leave me — leave me, I say. {Off R., loudly slamming door.) Mal. {repeating^ as he writes in note-book). "I'd give thirty thousand to break her contract." {Scratches head and looks at book.) There's something back of this. I'll just chip OUR WIVES 4i along and see what it is. I may be on the trail of a half page scoop. (^Gets behind screefi.) Enter Julia, door c, a long loaf of bread behind her back, Jul. (looking around, then down to c). Now for ze signal. {Whistles.^ Blair \ (P^^^^^S Ji^<^^s out of trunk). Get anything ? Jul. (Jianding Blair a loaf of bread). Zis was all I could get. Chan, (sadly). But where do I come in ? Blair (breaking loaf of bread across k?iee and handing Chan, sfnaller piece). Here's your half. (Chan. a?id Blair both begin to hurriedly eat bread. Mal. bobs head over screen and, watching proceedings, hur- riedly makes notes in book.) Jul. (c). Ze cook watch me all ze time. Blair (waving her off with loaf of bread). It's all right, girlie. You did nobly. Chan, (ivith mouth filled ; hardly audible). It's delicious ! Blair (tvith hand to ear). I didn't get that. Come again. Chan, (speaking with difficulty, as before), I say — it's de- licious. Blair. Got me. You'd better hire a phonograph. Jul. (looking around). Now I will bring you each a glass of water. Blair. And the menu will be complete. Yes, do, that's a dear. \^Exit Jul., l. Chan, (calling after her). But, say — how about the dessert ? Blair (eating). Don't be so particular. I don't know when I've eaten anything quite so tasty. Chan. I was nearly starved out. Mal. (cautiously from behind screen and down c, suddenly appearing before them). Ah, gentlemen ! Blair ) (dropping bread, confusedly attempting to hnver Chan. | tru7ik tops). The jig's up ! Mal. (catching hold of each top). Hold on. Don't be in a hurry. Blair (indignant). Who are you, sir? 42 OUR WIVES Chan, {imitating hwi). Yes, who are you? Mal. {quietly). I'm a reporter. Blair ) {confusedly attempting to lower trunk tops). Chan, | Good-night. Mal. {catching trunk tops as before). But don't let that worry you. I know everything. Chan, {sadly). And I suppose by to-morrow your con- founded paper will have done the rest. Mal. {looking at Blair). You're Blair, and you're — {re- ferring to Chan.) old Chandler. Chan, {indignant). Yes — only forget the " old " part of it. Mal. {looking from one to a?iother ; in surprise). You're a nice-looking crowd. Chan, {whining). Yes, but please don't rub it in. Mal. But I thought you both dead ! Blair. And you tried to make every one else believe it. Well, it's not our fault we're not. Chan, {sadly). No. How would you like to spend four- and-twenty hours in this thing? {Refers to trutik.) Mal. I don't think I'd like it. Chan. Well, I know you wouldn't. Mal. {taking 7iote-book from pocket). Aren't you two the owners of the new opera, " The Fleur-de-lis " ? Blair {sadly). I don't suppose it will do any good to deny it Chan. Unfortunately — we are. Mal. {writing busily iji book). Just so. Blair {watching him for an instant ; theft after a sigh). I wish I'd never been born. Chan. I wish I had my money back. Mal. {writing in book). It's too bad I didn't meet you gentlemen a half hour sooner. Blair. Could have used this story in your earlier edition, I suppose. Chan, {eagerly). Say, old chap, I'll give you a hundred to keep this out of your sheet. What will my friends say when they read — {whining) "Found in a trunk"? Oh, I'm dis- graced ! Mal. Pshaw, you don't understand me. Blair {quickly). Ah, I see — he offered too little. Well, I'll raise that to three hundred. Now what do you say? Mal. I could get more than tliat as commission Chan, {puzzled). Commission? OUR WIVES 43 Mal. Yes, commission. {Looks at Blair.) I heard you wish you'd never been born — {Jhen to Chan.) and you — to have your money back. Chan, {puzzled'). What are you, anyway ? Mal. a poor reporter, but with an eye to business. Now what's in it for me if 1 manage to Blair. You don't mean — dispose of " The Fleur-de-Hs " ? Chan. Oh, you can't be serious. Mal. Give me the opportunity and see. Blair {e?nphatically ; rishig in trunk). In a minute. Chan, {also rising). And ten per cent, besides. Mal. {offering hands) . Accepted ! -p ) {n'armly shaking his hands ; then stepping out of P > trunks and lowering tops). But how in the world 3 will you Mal. {Jinger to lips). S-h ! Leave everything to me. Enter Dev., door r. Dev. {angrily, on beholding Mal.). What — you again ? Bla^ir' } (^^^A^^^^W- Oh, lor'. ' {Hurriedly endeavor to hide behind Mal.) Mal. And brought two friends with me. Dev. {furious). I knew your impudence would know no bounds. Bring a hundred — bring five hundred reporters — and still my lips will be sealed for the papers. {Opens door r.) Mal, Just a minute. This is something altogether differ- ent. You mentioned that you were willing to give thirty thou- sand dollars to break your wife's contract. Dev. Yes, but that was only in Mal. I can buy the entire production for that amount. Dev. {surprised). You don't mean it? Mal. I certainly do. [To Chan, and Blair.) Gentle- men, know Major Deveaux. {Steps aside, presenting Chan. and Blair to view ; they make a sorry showing. To Dev.) Major, know Messrs. Chandler and Blair, — {referring to each) the owners of the production. Dev. {stagoered). Well, well, well. {Looks from one to the other. Then with bitterness.) So ^o\x—you are tlie per- sons who Chan, {alarmed ; getting behind Mal.). He's off ! 44 OUR WIVES Mal. {stepping between them; to Dev.). Once the owner of the production, you could then do with it as you wish. Dev. {changing manner ; stroking mustache). Even to clos- ing it down tight as a drum, if I willed it, eh ? Mal. Even that. My clients here — {referring to Chan. a7id Blair) have a valuable piece of dramatic property, but would consider a sale if you saw your way clear to raising your offer say — ten thousand Dev. (whistling). Forty thousand dollars ! Mal. {coolly to Chan, and Blair). You'd consider letting go at that figure, gentlemen ? {Nudges Blair.) Blair {starting). Oh, yes — yes. Chan, {aside). I'd let go for a sandwich. Dev. {stroking fnustache). It's a lot of money. But step into the library, gentlemen. It's just possible we may be able to do business together. This way. {Off Yt.. i.) Blair {slappi?ig Mal. heavily o?i shoulder). You're a wonder. Mal. {with wink of eye). Pretty good — what? {Offers arms.) Chan. You've certainly saved our lives. (Chan, aiid Blair lock arms in Mal.'s and exit, r., heart- ily laughing.) Enter ^vh.ffrom L., with two tumblers of water. Jul. {looking around). Hello, where have they got to, I wonder? {Down to trufik, r., lifts top.) Gone! {Hur- riedly lifts top of other trunk.) Gone ! {Puzzled.) What if ze Enter Mrs. C. and Beattie, both dressed in deep mourning, door c. Jul. staggered. Mrs. C. {brokenly). We've come to see Mr. Mallory, the reporter. Jul. {stammer ifig). But, madame, I do not think he is Beattie {brokenly). They told us at the newspaper office that we would most likely find him here. Mrs. C. We wish to learn whether he has heard anything additional Beattie {brokenly). Whether he can give us one ray of hope {Then u?iable longer to restrain her emotions f OUR WIVES 45 places handkerchief to eyes a?id loudly sobs.) Oh, Walter ! Walter ! how could you ? how could you ? Mrs. C. (ready to cry herself ; coinforting her). Don't, Beattie, child. {Then through her own sobs.) Think of your poor, departed father — my own dear Roswell ! (^Loudly sobs. Beattie and Mrs. C. are now both crying.) Jul. (watching them ititently). Please don't cry, ladies — please don't cry. (^Finally slowly places handkerchief to eyes and Joins them in sobbing.) E?iter Mal., hurriedly from r., unconcernedly down c. ; then suddenly espying ladies, gives a start and with long strides noiselessly ejideavors to retrace his steps. Mr^ r ") ^fi^^^^^y <^^^^^ crying, and looking up, in time to • -Dp. * " \^^py Mal., before he has chance to exit). Ah — 3 here you are ! (Catch him by coat-tails and drag him c.) Mal. (struggling). Yes, ladies, but a very important en- gagement. I'll return in a minute. Excuse me, please (Finally ceases struggles ; aside.) Oh, it's no use, I give up. (Jul. fneanwhile has exited door c.) Mrs. C. (brokenly to Mal.). Tell me, is there any news? Beattie (anxiously). About wj; husband? Mrs. C. My husband ? ^ P * [ Both our husbands? Mal. (nervously). Ladies, I hardly know what to say. M q r I (P^^^^^^^fy)' Go on — go on — say it — say it ! Mal. You know when I saw you this afternoon, I — you — that is Beattie. ) t-^ ». i ^ P ^ Don t keep us m suspense. Mal. (aside). How can I explain matters ? Mrs. C. You don't mean that they're still alive? Mal. (quickly shaking head in negative). Oh, no — oh, no — I don't mean anything like that. 46 OUR WIVES Mrs. C. {brokenly). I knew it — I knew it. They're dead — drowned ! Poor Roswell ! Beattie {sobbhigly). Poor Walter ! (Mrs. C. and Beattie bury heads on Mal.'s shoulder and sob loudly.) Mal. (Jiis arms about their waists ; comforting theni). There, there, don't take on so. {Aside.) How can I break it to them ? Enter Chan, and Blair, hurriedly ^ door r. T« ^'^' \ {suddenly beholding Mal.; start). What's this? {Then each down, seizing wife by arm. Blair forcing Beattie right of him ; Chan, forcing Mrs. C. left of Jwn.) Chan, {to Mrs. C, in assumed anger). So this is the way you cherish the memory of your departed husbands? ,, r^' \ Then you didn't commit suicide after all? P ' ^* [■ No, we changed our minds and disappointed you. Beattie {on her knees ; to Blair). Forgive me, dear. Blair {folding arms ; waving her off). To think I should find you in another's arms ! Ye gods ! Mrs. C. {on knees ; to Chan.). Roswell, I was only Chan. {imitatingV>\.k\\\\ stamping foot). Silence 1 I saw all with my own eyes. {Folds arms and assumes angry look.) Also, ye gods ! Enter Oscar, breathlessly ^ door c, a large flower wreath on his head, Oscar. Oh, Pm so glad I find you. {Grasps hatids of Ckat^j. and Blair and shakes them,^ ■Rt atr' r ^''^^^ Scott ! what has happened ? Mal. {anxiously). Is it over? Oscar {jubilantly). Yes, by now. {Excitedly.) I jumped in a taxi shust before der curtain came down. Oh, it was a great night. Such a success has nevah been. Only one un- pleasantness. A loafer hissed in der first act — und der ushers OUR WIVES 47 chucked him out. Den everything was peaceful. Ten times dey raised der curtain on der second act. I made a speech und received a beautiful wreath of flowers so big. (Jfidicates by hands that wreath must have been six or seven feet in height.) Mal. {removing wreath from his head and handing it to him'). Is this it? Oscar. By Jove — ches. Mal. Then it must have shrunk some since you last saw it. Oscar. In der excitement I thought it wuz my hat. {Bows to ladies.) Oscuse me, ladies. {To Chan. andBLkm.) It will run for a year in New York — dot's certain. Your fortune is made. Mal. {looking from Chan, to Blair). Have you made a mistake after all ? Chan. I'm glad to be out — at any price. Oscar {puzzled). Mistake? Price? Blair. We sold out only a minute ago. Oscar {staggered). You — you sold ''The Fleur-de-lis" ? Mrs C ) Beattif \ ^^^^^^^^S ^^ husbands). You sold it ? (Blair and Chan, nod heads in affirmative.) Blair. But only as the agents of our friend, here — {Refers to Mal.) Chan. Who owned it all along, eh, old chap? {Digs Mal. in side.) Mal. Yes — all along. Oscar {rujinifig hands through hair). Oh, yoi, yoi, yoi — what a foolishness. Enter Dev., door r. Dev. {anxiously). What's this I hear about the opera? Mal. You've made a great bargain. Ought to treble your money in two months. Oscar {looking at Mal.). Is he den der {Over to Dev., warmly shakes his hand.) Ah — you lucky, lucky man ! 48 OUR WIVES Enter Stan., door c. His clothing is badly torn^ his hair di- sheveled, and one eye is blackened, Dev. {surprised). Stanton! Stan, {crestfallen). Yes, boss. I tried to follow your in- structions about queering the show, but the ushers got to me OscAr {tritunphant). Before any damage was done. {Ea- gerly to Stan.) Ah, so you are der one who made such a rumpus in der first act ? I ought to {Raises hand as if to strike Stan.) Dev. {catching Oscar by arm). Let Kim be. He did it by my instruction. Oscar {surprised). Your instruction? You wanted to ruin your own show ? Ach himmel, I'm in a lunaticalum ! (Goes up.) Enter Jul., door c. Jul. {announcing Gil.). Madame, m'sieur. Enter Gil., door c. All. Congratulations on your success. Gil. Thank you. {To Chan, ^/z^ Blair.) And now in deference to my husband's wishes, I formally hand you this {Hands Blair a letter.) Blair. Why, what is it? Gil. My two weeks' notice. Blair. Which should now go to your husband. {Hands to Dev.) Gil. {astonished). My husband ? Chan. Yes, he having bought the same only a half hour ago. Dev. {to Gil.). And since the thing's proven such an em- phatic success, hang me, if I don't think I'll keep it going. All. Really ? Dev. {tearing notice in particles and close to Gil.). Only hereafter my wife will be viatiaged Gil. {lookifig up at him). By her husband / OUR WIVES 49 Beattie ) {taking hold of th^ir husbands by collar of coat). Mrs. C. j Kwdyoti Chan \ipfl^^ <^ P<^^^^^ i ^^^^^^^b^- By — our wives. Picture QUICK CURTAIN New Plays THE COUNTRY MINISTER A COMEDY-DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS By Arthur Leiv'is Tuhbs ATJTHOB OF "VALLEY FARM," " WILLOWDALE," "THE PENALTY OF PRIDE," ETC. Eight males, five females. Costumes, modern; scenery not difficult. Plays a full evening. A very sympathetic piece, of powerful dramatic in- terest; strong and varied comedy relieves the serious plot, as in this author's "Valley Farm," to admirers of which this play is recommended. Ralph Underwood, the minister, is a great part, and Roxy a strong soubrette; all parts are good and full of opportunity. Scenes are laid about equally in city and country. This will be the " hit '"' of the coming year, and Clubs Avill do well to secure early copies. Clean, bright and strongly recommended. Price f 25 cents CHARACTERS Eev. Ralph Underwood, the coun- William Henry. try minister. Tom Sparrow. Gregory Heath, of the world at Mr. Filkins, an officer. large. Helen Burleigh, /rom the city. JUD Pardoe, a wreck on the ocean of Jerusha Jane Judkins, the post' life, misiress, Timothy Hodd, who would rather B,0XY, ^^ a fresh air kid." whittle than ivork. GRANNY GRIMES. Deacon Potter, ^^just a trifle deef." Fanny, a maid. SYNOPSIS Act I. — Yard of INIiss Judkins's store and postoffice, Mullen ville, N. Y., on a morning in August. Act II. — Same as Act I, half an hour later. Act III. — Granny Grimes's garret, on the East Side, New York City, the following November. Act IV. — Miss Burleigh's home in New York, the same evening. Act V. — Back at MuUenville, in Miss Judkins's sitting-room. One month has elapsed. TWELFTH NIGHT By William Shakespeare A comedy in Five Acts. Ten males, three females. Costumes, pictur- esque; scenerv, varied. Plays a full evening. A new acting version of this 4omedy, based on the prompt-book of Miss Julia Marlowa Price, 15 cents New Plays SUMMER BOARDERS OR, THE GREAT JEWEL MYSTERY A COMEDY-DRAMA IN FOUR ACTS By Josephine Van Tassel Bruorton Eight males, seven females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, one interior and one exterior. Plays a full evening. Combines dramatic interest with abund- ant comedy, and is particularly strong in character parts. Contains an un- usual number and variety of strong parts. Price f 25 cents CHARACTERS Joshua Wicks, o? TBE NOTORIOUS MRS. EBBSMITP ^--ZjZ.^. Costumes, modern ; scenery, all interiors PI ys a lull evening. THF PROFI IfiATF ^la-y^^FourAc^r* oeven males, five females. lUC inurMUAlL/ g^jgugry, three interiors, rather elaborate; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. THE CmnAT MIQTDPCC Farce in Three Acts. Nine males, seven iOC 5tnUUUni31KE33 ^^^^^^^^^ costumes, modem; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. TBE SECOND MRS. TANQUERAY fJl ■"..rLfat. "ct' tumes, modern ; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. SWFFT [ A YFNflFR comedy in Three Acts, Seven males, four JTTLLl I^iilLdlvL. females. Scene, a single interior ; costjumes, modern. Plays a full evening. THF TIIWFS Comedy in Four Acts. Six males, seven females. Scene, a single interior; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. THF WFAKFR SFX comedy in Three Acts. Eight males, eight lUl; ni; Alien JCA f^j„,j^]eg costumes, modem ; scenery, two interiors. Plays a full evening. A WIFE WITHOUT A SMILE IZt'Z >^,:Z.^Z^J^::. modern ; scene, a single interior. Plays a full evening. Sent prepaid on receipt of price by l^alter i^* TBafeer & Compani? No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS P? C|)e l^illiam \ r ^. 018 482 380 9 I AS YOU I IK^F IT Comedy in Five Acts. Tliirteeu males, four AiJ lUt) l^llVlv 11 females. Costume.s, picturesque ; scenery, va- ried. Plays a full eveuiug. CAMIT I F I^i'^"^^ '" Five Acts. Is'iue males, five females. Cos- vAlTllL(L