r. II. McCABE, San Francisco, California. >RBACH. .Tit.. 821 Broadway. X. Y. Spencer's Boston Theatre. .. m »« Price, 12 1-2 Cents, each. Ten for One Dollar. BOUND VOLUMES, SI. VOL. I. VOL. VI. VOL. XI. 1 Moll Pitcher, 41 Love and Lovalty. 81 The Mummy. 2 The Forest Rose, 42 Robber's Wife. 82 The Review. 3 Swiss Swains, i 43 Happy Man, 83 Lady of the Lake. 4 Bachelor's Bedroom, 44 Dumb Girl of Genoa. 84 Still 'Water Runs Deep. 5 Sophia's Supper, 45 Wreck Ashore, 85 Man of Many Friends. 6 A Roland fur an Oliver, 46 Clari. 86 Love in Livery. 7 Blaek-eved Susun, 47 Miller and his Men. 87 Antony and Cleopatra. 8 John Bull, 48 Wallace. 88 The Scholar. VOL. II. VOL. VII. VOL. XII. 9 Satan in Paris, 49 Madelaine. 89 Helping Hands. 10 More Blunders than one, 50 Betsey Baker. 90 Aladdin. 11 Pvosina Meadows, 51 The Fireman, 91 Trying it on. 12 The Dumb Belle, 52 No. 1, Round the Corner, 92 Sta^e r-truck Yankee, 13 My Aunt* 53 Tedtlv Roe. 93 Young Wife & Old 14 Spring and Autumn, 54 Grist to the Mill. 94 Last Man, (Umb'la 15 Six Degrees of Crime, 55 Object of Interest. 95 Belles' Stratagem, 16 Limeiiek Boy, 56 Two Loves and a Life. 96 Crinoline. VOL. III. VOL. VIII. VOL. Xl/*. 17 Presumptive Evidence, 57 Anne Blake. 97 Old and Young. 18 Man and Wife, 58 My Fellow Clerk. 98 A Family Failing. 19 The Sergeant's Wife, 59 Bengal Tiger. 99 The Young Scamp, 20 Masks and faces, 60 The Steward. l(X)The Adopted Child. 21 Merry Wives of Windsor, 61 Capt, Kyd. 101 The Turned Head. 22 Nature and Philosophy, 62 Nick of the Woods. 102 A Match in the Dark, 23 Agnes de Vere, 63 The Marble Heart. 103 Advice to Husbands. 24 Shandy Maguire, 64 Laughing Hyena. 104 Raffaelle. VOL. IV. VOL. IX. VOL,. XIV. 25 Wild Oats, 65 Second Love, 10.-)Ruth r Oakley 26 Michael Erie, 66 The Victor Vanquished. 106 The British Slave. 27 Teddy the Tiler, 67 Our Wife 107 Siamese Twins, 28 Spectre Bridegroom, 68 Dream at Sea. 108 A Life's Ransom, 2:> Idiot Witness, 69 My Husband's Mirror. 109 Sent to the Tower. 30 Willow Copse, 70 Yankee Land. IRiGiralda, 31 Matteo Falcone, 71 Norah Crtina, 11 1 Time Tries all, 32 People's Lawyer, 72 Good * Nothing. 112 Ella Rosenburg. VOL. V. VOL. X. VOL. XV. 33 Jenny Lind, 34 Comedy of Errors, ! 35 Lucretia Borgia, 36 Surgeon of Paris. 37 Patrician's Daughter, 38 The Two Buzzards, 39 Shoemaker of Toulouse, 40 Momentnrw Qnesti >n. 73 The First Night. 74 The Rake's Progress. 75 Pet of the Petticoats. 76 The Eaton Boy. 77 Wandering Minstrel. 78 Wanted 1000 Milliners. 79 Poor Pillicoddy. 80 Breach ut Promise. 113 Somebody Else. 114 Warlock of the Glen 115 Zelina, 116 Ladies' Battle, 117 Art of Acting, 118 The Brigand, 119 The Lady of the Lions, 120 Neighbor Jackwood. WILLIAM V. SPENCER, PUBLISHER, 138 TAT-J^SHinsra-TOKT ST., (Corner of Water St.) BOSTON. SPENCER'S BOSTON THEATRE No. CLVHI. A LUCKY HIT. A PETITE COMEDY, I 1ST O *T B ACT. HOWA&'b PAUL AUTHOR OP Thrice Married, — Opposite Neighbors, — Rappings and Table-movings,- The Queen of Arragon, — Following the Ladies, — Etc., Etc. WITH ORIGINAL CASTS, COSTUMES, AND THE WHOLE OF THE STAGB BUSINESS, CORRECTLY MARKED AND ARRANGED, BY MR. 3. B. WRIGHT, ASSISTANT MANAGER OP THE BOSTON THEATRE. BOSTON: WILLIAM V. SPENCER, 128 Washington Street, Corner op Water. / CAST OF CHABACTERS.^ w Sadler's Wells, 1854. Baron Bergonce Mr. Barrett. Chevalier Vilbeac, " Davenport. Nykon, (a servant,) " Leclair. Marchioness de l'Espalier, . Miss Fanny Yining. ,-SCBNBff PARIS DTlRIfrtXTHE REGENCY. • •''"•'^Vwie bj "Representation?— 45 minutes. COSTUMES Baron.— Green Damask silk square cut coat, gold holes; crimson satin long flapped vest, gold holes; green satin loose trunks, amber hows; scarlet stockings, with amber clocks; high red heeled black velvet shoes, square amber bow acros3 shoe; lace ruffles; lace cravat; black sloucheed hat, gold loop; black Ostrich fea- thers ; black ringlet wig. Chevalier. — Scarlet square cut coat, embroidered in gold; light blue long flap- ped satin vest, embroidered in gold; scarlet trunks; high black boots, and gold spurs ; drab slouched hat, scarlet and white feathers, gold loop ; white laced cravat, and ruffles; brown ringlet wig; Baldric and Spanish rapier; white gauntlets. Ntkon. — Amber square cut coat, trimmed with worsted lace; long flapped red cloth vest; amber trunks; red stockings; high heeled black shoes; square bow across shoe; brown frizzed ringlet wig; white cravat and ruffles. Marchioness. — 1st. dress.— Blue brocade looped up dress; primrose satin petti- coat, embroidered down in front; white silk hose; high heeled white satin shoes; white satin bow across shoe; hair in ringlets, looped with pearls and diamonds. 2nd. dress. — A scarlet Amazonian riding jacket; gold holes and buttons; white Kerseymere vest, embroidered with gold; green long skirt, gold holes down in front; black beaver; slouched hat, gold loops; white, blue and red Ostrich fea- thers; white gauntlets, gold embroidered tops; black silk gaiters, embroidered round tops ; white long lace cravat ; frills and laced ruffles. A. HLTJCKY HIT. Scene. — An elegantly furnished apartment enclosed with doors practical, R. &. L. h. 3. e., in the style of Louis XV, 3. &. 4. g. — large folding doors c. practical, backed by handsome interior — a table, large mirror, and toilette appointments, on R. H. 2. e. — couch with velvet cushions, on L. h. — a small table with writing materials, R. h. 1. e. — 4 chairs on R. &. l. — carpet down — arm chair on R. h. Enter Baron, c. d. l. h., followed by Nyk on. Bar. [speaking as he enters] Has there been a valet waited on me this morning ? Nyk. He is in the vestibule. Bar Is the Marchioness visible ? Nyk. She is in the conservatory. Bar. I will go to her. Tell the valet to await me here. {Exit Baron d. r. h. 3. e., at the same moment Vildebrac appears at c. d. L. H.) Vil. Was not that the Baron Bergonce who just passed out ? Nyk. Yes ; and he wishes you to wait here. Vil. Here ? Nyk. Those were his orders. [Exit c. d. l. h. Vil. Orders ! The word has an unpleasant sound, but I must not forget my character. I must put my pride in livery also, or pocket it, which is much the same thing (going to mirror R. h.) No one would detect me in this garb {walking about provoked,) and now I hope I am safe, for if I am recognised as the Chevalier Vilbrac, the Bastile would claim the immediate honor of my society. My adventure last night at Mousseaux was a most awkward affair. The Regent, not content with providing for his guests a torchlight fete in his park, with that elegant discrimination for which he is re- nowned, gave orders to have all the lights suddenly extinguised, and like that (snapping his fingers') we were all in the most fascinating darkness. In hurrying through the groups of people, I trod on some one's foot — just my luck — and an energetic oath exploding at the same moment, of course I thought it a man's. Expecting a blow I struck out at hazard, and the same instant I heard a soft lovely shriek as plaintive as the note of a thrush. Great heavens ! a female had received the blow ! Having a natural repugnance to trouble, I fled, but heard a voice exclaim behind me — "Madame Parabere is ill." I must have struck the favorite of the Regent ! hang Mousseaux ! hang darkness ! hang the Regent ! but I must 4 A LUCKY HIT. take care, or it will be I that will hang. "Well, what was I to do in this dilemma. She may have recognised my voice, and her temper is hot and impetuous. I could think of nothing better than to assume this livery, write a letter of recommendation of myself under the name of Francois, my own valet, and apply for a place to the Baron Bergonce, who fortunately does not know me person- ally. He comes. I must look livery as well as wear it. Enter Baron, d. r. h. 3. e. Bar. {seeing him) Are you the person who wrote to me ? Vil. (l. h.) Yes, M. le Baron. Bar. (r. h.) In consideration for your late master, whom I know by reputation, I should like to serve you. My establishment is full at present, but I have spoken to my aunt, the Marchioness de l'Espalier, who understanding you were recommended by the Chevalier Vilbrac, consents to engage you. Vil. {Aside.) I'm sure I am much obliged to her. {aloud) Does she know my late master ! Bar. I am not able to say. You will clearly understand, how- ever, you owe your engagement to my influence, (x. l. h.) Vil. {bowing.) Monsieur le Baron, I am the soul of gratitude. Bar. We shall see ; and now I take you into my confidence which I trust you will not betray. You must know my uncle, the Marquis de l'Espalier, who was a most eccentric creature, some years ago had a young and pretty housekeeper in his service, who was famous for making superb ices and jellies. My uncle was a gourmand as well as a fool, and one day he took it into his head to marry his pretty housekeeper. Vil. Her ices raised a flame in his bosom. I see. Yes, Mon- sieur le Baron. Bar. The consequences of this ridiculous marriage were, that my expectations were sent to the dogs ! in other words, my uncle, in- stead of leaving me his fortune at his death, which occurred about two years ago, had the bad taste to settle it all on his wife. Vil. Shameful in the extreme. It is just the way with these wives. Bar. Now, what I desire is, to marry the marchioness, who is still blooming. Vil. Marry your aunt ? Bar. Precisely so. Vil. You have my free consent. Bar. But it is her's I want ; and I require you now to assist me. Vil. Anything I can do in my humble capacity, Monsieur le Baron I will do cheerfully. Bar. To begin then ; I must tell you that she hates the very sight of me. Vil. {aside) She is evidently a woman of taste. Bar. But I fancy if I have near her a faithful fellow like your- self, who will perpetually sound my praises, and abuse everybody else in an artful manner, I think in time much may be done towards dispelling her indifference. Do you comprehend me ? A LUCKY HIT. 5 Vil. Perfectly. I am to combine the duties of a servant with the functions of the spy. To lose no opportunity of knocking every- body else down and helping you up. Bar. Your aptitude delights me (giving money.') Accept this as a token of my appreciation. Vil. Thanks, Monsieur le Baron; I fully enter into your feelings. You want a subtle, cunning, ingenious knave. Bar. Precisely. I repose perfect confidence in you in this noble employment. Vil. (bowing) You do me great honor. Bar. That's a good Francois. Keep your ears to the doors and your eyes to the letters. Vil. I understand — thus (ivith his hand as if rounding a letter and peeping into it.) Although not educated, I am a man of letters enough for that, (aside.) The old rogue. Bar. Your cleverness quite surprises me. (aside.) He will be in- valuable in this business. I'll bind him to me closely, (aloud) So much do 1 prize your discrimination, there's another mark of my favor. Vil. [declining'] Oh, Monsieur le Baron, you — Bar. Nonsense, fellow, [he forces a gold coin into his hand, which he holds behind him] Hush ! here comes the marchioness. Leave me, and I'll speak of you to her. [crosses to R. h. Vil. [aside] Ah ! Baron, if you only knew what a sad mistake you are making [Exit, c. d. l. h. Enter Marchioness, d. r. h. 3. e. She walks about the room in a state of agitation, the Baron following her with an anxious air. Mar. [h. h.] I would give half I possess in the world to know who it was — Bar. (r. h., aside) To know who who was, I wonder. Mar. Whenever I think of it, the indignant blood leaps through my veins. I always loved Mousseaux ; and after the Regent ordered the lights to be extinguished, I received two declarations, four kisses and — and a blow. Bar. [aside] What a temper she is in! Mar. The declarations and. the kisses were all well enough, but the blow Bar. [approching her] Dearest aunt ! Mar. Oh ! are you here again, (aside) "What a bore it is to have a nephew old enough to be your grandfather. Bar. Captivating aunt ! (drawing his face up in a grotesque smile) Mar. Captivating fiddlesticks ! Don't do that, it makes you look like a monkey. A smile on your face reminds me of a butterfly on a nutmeg grater. Bar. (aside) I can't see the simile, (aloud) Charming, incom- parable aunt ! — would I could add wife as well— I wish to speak to you about the new valet. Mar. Well, well — where is he ? Bar. In the ante-room, dearest aunt. Mar. Let me see him. (Baron goes to the C. p. L, H., a,nd beckens 6 A LUCKY HIT. in Vilbrac) That old man will make me have wrinkles before I am five-and-thirty. He irritates me to death, (seeing Vilbrac on l. h.) Well, (aside) Ah ! Bar. What's the matter, sweetest aunt ? Mar. Nothing — nothing ; only I thought I had seen this man. before, (aside) How absurd — besides, the other was much more slender, (to Vilbrac) Come here — (stamping her foot ill-tempered ly) Come here, I say ! Vil. (approaching her slowly to c.) Madame, I have not got wings. Mar. Who said you had, fool. What is your name ? Speak ! don't keep me waiting. Vil. Francois, madame. (aside) She has got a temper of her own. Mar. Well, Francois, I'm in an ill-humor. Vil. (sarcastically) Indeed, madame, I should never have sus- pected it. Bar. (l. h. — aside) Exquisite readiness — he will do wonders for me. Mar. (c.) Francois. Vil. Yes, madame. Mar. (peevishly) Nothing. Vil. Thank you, madame. Mar. (r. h.) I mean I take you into my service. You shall have nothing to do, and plenty to eat. Will that suit you ? Vil. At doing nothing I am a master — a valet, I beg madame's pardon ; and in the matter of appetite, from a child, I have been remarked for my capacity in that respect. Mar. Servants are all alike. Yes, yes, I know all about it. Bar. (aside) She speaks from experience. Mar. (loudly) Leave me, but be within sound of my bell — do you hepj ? Vil. (coolly) Every word distinctly, madame. (Exit, c. d. l. h. Mar. JBaron, I have seen you tAvice before to-day. Bar. (aside) That means go. (aloud) Yes, darling aunt, I could see you a thousand times a day, and — Mar. I would not wish to see you once, (curtseying formally) Good morning, Baron. Bar. [bowing obsequiously] Good morning, [aside] Her ill-breed- ing is remarkable, This comes of entering the drawing-room through the kitchen. [Exit, c. r>. l. h. Mar. What an astonishing likeness that man bears to his former master, the Chevalier Vilbrac, whom I once loved, when I was lady's maid to his aunt, the Baroness Brevanne, at St. Germains. A lady's maid, and now I am a marchioness ! Would any one be- lieve, from my manners, that I was not born with a ready-made coronet on my coach, [taking stage with dignity] Ah ! the Chevalier has forgotten me. I left his aunt, and went as housekeeper to the Marquis Espalier, finally became his wife, and so he has lost sight of little Florine, as he once called me. [throwing herself in a chair, r. h.] Ah me ! His valet brings back a long train of pleasant re- collections, and I am not sure but that I was happier then as Florine A LUCKY HIT. then now as the Marchioness. I have a strange fancy that this va- let looks excedingly like the master. I must have another look at him. [rings bell on R. h.J Enter Vilbrac, c. d. l. h. Vil. Did you ring, madame ? Mar. J"r. h.] Why did you come up ? Vil. Because madame rang. Mar. Then why do you ask ? Vil. [l. h.] I believe that is the usual remark of servants. Mar. [aside] The usual remark of servants, [aloud] You are quite right, Francois, [aside] If my memory serves me, he is very like. Francois ! Vil. Yes, madame. Mar. I am perishing with ennui. I wish to be amused. Suppose you tell me a story. Vil. What shall I tell madame ? Mar. Something I do not know, of course. Vil. I fear that is impossible. Mar. Come, come, go on ; wait, ring for Nanette. She will fin- ish dressing my hair, while you relate me some pretty anecdote. One you learned from your former master/ Vil. I tremble to tell you, madame, that I just gave the servants permission to go out Mar. [jumping up] What do I hear ? You gave them permission — you — you — you ! [confronting and walking him about the apartment] I never heard of such audacity ! [aside] He is so like the Cheva- lier, I can't scold him. Vil. (with decision) I may as well tell you now, madame, as any other time, that I cannot accept a situation if I am not allowed to do just as I please. Mar. (sinking into chair) Oh ! Well, I may presume that if you send the servants out, you will fulfil their several duties. Vil. Unquestionably, madame. I can do anything — from ser- ving an ice to arranging a lady's hair. Mar. Perhaps you will illustrate your skill, then, on mine. (aside) His impudence amuses me. (the Marchioness sits at her toi- lette, r. h., facing the mirror) Vil. I shall endeaver to give madame satisfaction, (he attempts to dress her hair, and. sprinkles the powder on it) Mar. There, don't get the powder in my eyes. Vil. I have thrown dust in people's eyes before now, but never powder, especially such eyes as madame possesses. Mar. How awkward you are. (looking up into his face) Do you think my eyes pretty ? Vil. They brim with sweetness and expression, as my former master would say. Mar. Your former master ; yes, tell me of him. Has he the same distaste for military life ? Vil. I believe so. Mar. They say he is brave-hearted too. 8 A LUCKY HIT. Vil. He would go through fire and water to save a friend. Wa- ter I am sure he would, for he can swim. Mar. They tell me that he will not fight a duel. Vil. No, for some crotchet he has. I have often heard him say that duelling is a barbarous custom. Mar. Between ourselves, Francois, I think him a bit of a coward. Vil. (aside) A coward ! Mar. What do you think? Vil. I'll take it on myself to answer for him — he is not. Mar. "Well, I am not at all clear on that point. Where is he now, I wonder ? Is he far away ? Vil. ( pointedly) Not very. Mar. Where is he then ? Vil. In Paris, and closely disguised. i; Mar. Disguised ? Vil. Yes, madame : now you will not betray him ? Mar. I give you my honor. Vil. He was last night at the fete given by the Regent, at Mous- seaux, and in the dark, by mistake, he struck Madame Parabere, the Regent's favorite, a blow. Mar. That blow that has made so much noise, (aside) Then it was Vilbrac's hand who dealt it, and he thinks Madame Parabere suffered, (aloud) Do you know the retreat he has chosen ? Vil. I fancy I do. Mar. Is he safe ? Vil. I hope so. (aside) With all my heart. Mar. Do you think he would be safe here ? Vil. Yes, Madame, but — Mar. But what ? (going to escritoire, R. h. 1 e.) I'll write to him without delay, and you shall convey the letter, (writing') Vil. Pardon me, madame, but whence arises this interest in him ? You know him, then ? Mar, (writing) How many b's are there in trouble ? \il. Generally speaking, one. Mar. There, (reading) " I hear you are in trouble. I offer you an asylum in my hotel. Do not hesitate to accept my protection." (folding it) What a bore writing is when you forget how to spell. You must address it. (gives him the letter, and he addresses it.) Vil. This is great kindness on your part, (giving her the. letter) Mar. (looking at the. address — aside) That handwriting! I'll swear it is his ! My suspicions are confirmed, this is the Chevalier. I must not let him see I recognise him. (gaily) Y"ou undertake — what did you say your name was ? Vl. Francois, madame. Mar. (aside) How well he plays his part, (aloud) You under- take to convey this to him safely? Vil. (putting it in his pocket) Madame may be as easy as if he had it at this moment. Mar. And now see whether the servants have returned, and order luncheon. Vil. Y r es, madame. (Bows, and exit, c. d. l. h. A LUCKY HIT. 9 Mar. The Chevalier here in disguise, and in consequence of the blow I received ! If it was any other than he, I would — I scarcely like to confess what I would not do. My new station must change me wonderfully, or he would have recognised me, though he has not seen me for years. Then we were both poor. Now he has a title and fortune, and so have I. Time makes strange changes, though I retain the same love I had for him when I was a girl. Stay, before I interrogate my heart too closely, there is a cloud about the courage of this man that I must dispel. Ah ! he is here. Enter Vilbrac, c. d. l. h., with Nykon bearing a small table, on which is spread luncheon, he places a chair for her, and she sits. [Exit Nykon, c. d. 1.,h. Vil. I trust, madame, it is served with gout, (aside) I'm furious- ly hungry myself, (he is about to help himself to a glass of wine.) Mar. What are you about ? Your place is behind my chair. Vil. Ah, madame, I forget myself. Mar. You do indeed. Vil. You will pardon me. (he stands behind her chair.) Mir. By the way, resuming the subject we were talking of, is the Chevalier Vilbrac married ? Vil. (taking a sponge cake, unseen, and eating.) No, madame. Mar. Has he never loved ? (his mouth is so full he cannot reply. ) Do you hear me, Francois ? Vil. Yes, madame. Mar. Then why don't you answer. Vil. Never but once, I believe, and that was some years ago. Mar. Who was the object of his adoration ? Some opera dancer, I dare say. Vil. Nothing of the sort ; it was a simple lady's-maid. Mar. What was her name ? Vil. Florine, if I mistake not. She was a waiting maid in the service of his aunt at St. Germains. Mar. (starting, aside.) He did love me then. Vil. What is the matter, madame ? Mar. Nothing — only a bone had like to have gone the wrong way. Did you ever hear him say that Florine was pretty ? Vil. Oh, yes; I have seen her myself, and I fancy she resembles you, only your brow is fairer, and your cheek more beautifully rounded. Mar. If he loved her as you say, why did he not marry her ? Vil. His aunt forced him to leave St. Germains, and she after- wards wrote to him that his Florine had eloped to England with an officer of dragoons. Mar. (aside.) The old vixen ! I shall die with rage. 1 know I shall. Vil. This news made my master very unhappy. He resolved to forget her, and accordingly plunged into all the dissipations of Paris. What a lucky escape it was for him, madame, was it not ? Only think of a fine handsome fellow marrying a woman who would behave in that fashion. Mar. (aside) England! — Officer! — Dragoons! (aloud) I feel as if I should choke. 10 A LUCKY HIT. Vil. Choke! Wash it down with this, (pouring out a glass of wint and giving it to her quickly.) Mar. (drinking) There, I am better now. Vil. Would you believe it, madame, my master never took lun- cheon without me. Mar. (aside.) I can readily believe it. (aloud.) Perhaps you would like to continue the habit in your new quarters ? Vil. To say the truth, I'm dying with hunger. Nothing would give me more happiness. Mar. Be seated then, (rises, she helps him, he eats and drinks raven- ously.) You must consider yourself highly flattered by this honor. It is not every valet who is permitted to lunch with his mistress. Vil. Believe me, madame, I do feel honored, and I attribute it to the most eccentric of condescensions — to say nothing of kindness. Mar. You have penetration, I observe. Vil. Believe me, madame, I caught it from my master. Mar. [aside] Pretty egotism, upon my honor, [quickly] There, there ; you have eaten enough for the present. Vil. No, indeed, I have only just begun. Mar. It will make me desolate to see you eat any more at this moment, [reclining on the couch, l. h.] Place this cushion under my feet and bathe my temples with rose-water, [he brings bottle from toi- lette table, k. h.] No, lavender, [he changes bottle] No, orange-water — no, millefleur — no, violet ; there, I don't know what I want, [throw- ing her head back on the couch and fanning herself] Vil. [aside.] She is as capricious as a swarm of humming-birds, and as changeable as a weathercock. Mar. Francois, what are you saying to yourself ? Place this cushion for my feet. [He placss a cushion on the floor, and she rests her feet coquettishly on it, arranging her dress in order to exhibit them.] That will do very well. Vil. [kneeling at her feet, and gazing at them admiringly.] Pardon, madame, but your feet are so tiny and exquisite, that I almost wish I was one of the little blue slippers that imprison them. Mar. [with affected anger.] Francois, you are growing presump- tuous. Vil. That's another habit I caught from my master. He never sees a beautiful woman, but he revels in a sea of compliments ; and in that respect I am so much like him. Mar. [aside] And no wonder. Vil. Madame, you say I am presumptuous. After all, this livery is only the covering of a man. Is it because you are a mar- chioness, you are pretty ? Who knows but that because you are pretty, you are a marchioness. Mar. [aside] Is he going to confess himself ? Vil. [earnestly] Marchioness or not, I only see in you a woman — a pretty, kind-hearted, coquettish, [aside] spoiled [aloud] wo- man. I will confess, then, if I perish for my boldness, I love you with all my soul. You see at your feet not your valet, but your slave ! [falling at. her feet and covering her hand with kisses.] Mar. [aside] Why does he not reveal who he is ? A LUCKY HIT. 11 Enter Baron, c. d. l. h., who perceives Vilbrac at the feet of the Marchioness. Bar. (with a pause.) The devil ! Here fellow, is that the way to follow my instructions ? Mar. Baron, you are a bore. Francois was amusing me so pleasantly. Vil. I was relating a fairy legend to madame. Bar. Yes, I know all about these fairy legends, as you call them. Leave the room, (walks furiously about the apartment.) Mar. Ha, ha ! how very amusing, [aside] Now to put an idea in practice, and try the courage of my gallant chevalier. [Exit, c. d. i. H. Bar. (seeing Vil.) How, fellow, are you not gone ? Vil. Gone, indeed. I should think not. I have promoted my- self. Bar. (sarcastically.) To what position, may T ask ? Vil. To Prince Regent of the establishment, and Knight Com- mander of this boudoir. (Vilbrac removes luncheon on centre table, to side, 3 e. l., and arranges things on tables, etc., R. h.) Bar. (aside) His impertinence absolutely chills me. Vil. By-the-by, Monsieur le Baron — do you take snuff ? Per- haps you will oblige me with your box. Bar. (indignantly) Fellow ! Vil. I dropped mine this morning in the river. Confound the thing ! it was a present from my late master. It had a double lid — with a picture of a Madonna on the outside, and on the inside, two lovers exchanging kisses by moonlight. Charming antithesis, eh? Bar. Leave the room, knave. Vil. It is impossible. Madame's orders were that I should re- main, (humming a tune.) Bar. Stop your singing, immediately. Vil. With great pleasure, (whistling.) Bar. Insult me further, varlet, and I'll — Vil. (dancing a few steps of the Minuet de la Cceur.) Are you fond of Terpsichore ? Perhaps you will join me in a minuet. Bar. I'll minuet my cane about your back. Vil. I strongly recommend you to do nothing of the sort. It is an old saying, " Two of a trade rarely agree." Bar. flow fellow ! (he chases him about the room with his cane, Vil. using his arm to parry the blows. He at length deals the Baron a sound slap on the cheek.) Bar. A blow — Sacre Dieu ! In ten minntes time you shall hear from me. ( going.) Vil. How — a duel ? Bar. A duel with a valet. No, fellow, I shall summon the guard. Vil. (aside.) He has me in his power. I have assaulted him. The Bastile seems doomed to receive me. I had better claim the protection my rank affords than be dragged ignominiously to prison. Bar. I'll teach you to assault your superiors. 12 A LUCKY HIT. Vil. Baron Bergonce, I am your equal. Bar. How ? Vil. For know that, instead of Francois the valet, I am the Chevalier Vilbrac. Bir. Pooh — pooh ; that's a likely story. This is the dress of a chevalier. Oh, yes — of course it is. Vil. I tell you, Baron, 1 am in disguise. Bar. And why in disguise ? Why dupe me with your mean dis- guises ? Vil. I confess to you, then, that at the fete at Mousseaux, last night, I gave by mistake, in the dark, Madame Parabere a blow. Bar. You seem to be apt at that sort of thing, (rubbing his face.) Well, sir, now that I know who I am to deal with, we'll arrange the conditions of the combat. Vil. You mean that one of us must die, unless apologies — Bar. Of the most profound and humble character are offered — Vil. Without witnesses ? Bar. Yes. Vil. Well, then, apologise to me for using your cane, and I'll forgive you. Duels are so stupidly inconsistent. Bar. I like your coolness. It is you who should offer an apolo- gy, not I. Vil. What an original idea ! I take it that you are to be the apologist. Come now, listen to reason. Bar. Listen to the devil ! I tell you it is I who must receive the aplogy. Vil. Baron, I did think you were more clear-headed ; but we will be compelled, 1 see. Bar. (angrily.) To fight, after all, Chevalier Vilbrac. Enter Nykon, c. d. l. h. Nykon. Madame Parabere. [bows.] Enter the Marchioness, c. d. i» h., dressed in a riding habit, cap and feathers, with a whip in her hand, and her face concealed by a green vel- vet mask. The c. of the stxige clear. [Exit Nykon, c. d. l. h. Bar. [aside.] Madame Parabere. Vil. [aside, simultaneously.] Madame Parabere ! And I have just confessed to the Baron. I had better make my escape, (he at- temps to exit, door c, when she flourishes her whip, and intercepts him.) Mar. Stay, young man. Which of you two is named Francois ? Bar. [aside.] What a queston to ask me. Mar. (consulting her tablets.) I have his description here, (to Vil- brac.) I see, it is you. You are the Chevalier Vilbrac in disguise. You perceive I am not a woman to be trifled with. Vil. [bending his head.] It is useless to deny, I am — Mar. Perfectly, for it saves time, [the Baron is about to exit, c, when he is stopped by the Marchioness.] Remain here. This is an affair of honor, and you will serve as a witness. Bar. Witness ! Mar. (to Vilbrac") You may be aware, Chevalier, that a gen- tleman has very recently grossly insulted a lady. You are the genleman — I am the lady — A LUCKY HIT. 13 Vil. Madame, believe me — Mar. (interrupting him.) Not a word ; one syllable to tbe Regent, and your head would have paid the forfeit ; but that is not'my mode of proceeding. I believe it to be useless to confide to others what one can do oneself. Vil. Then, madame, you wish — Mar. Satisfaction for the outrage you committed last night. A trifle will satisfy me. Vil. Name it, madame. Mar. (with determination.) Your life ! Vil. I have every desire to gratify you, madame, but what you set so small a value on is highly important to me. I cannot, there- fore, yield it without resistance. Mar. I have no desire to fell you with one blow. A duel is the better plan. Vil. Fight with a lady ! Mar. Do not give yourself concern on that point. You will find me a match for a man. Vil. 1 am much flattered by the honor you do me ; but I really am afraid of hurting you. Mar. Pray don't feel disturbed. If it will strengthen your con- fidence in me, allow me to tell you that T studied under St. George ; and Madame Villars, the heroine of that famous duel with the Marchioness of Nesle, is my pupil. I may as well tell you, also, that I pinked her three times this morning, after having disarmed Madame Polignac, who has the steadiest nerves and the quickest eye in the kingdom, (she claps her hands — enter Nykon, c. d. l. h., with two sivords — she takes one from him.) Vil. My feelings have undergone a change, your account strikes me so forcibly. Suppose you kill me. Mar. {flourishing the sword.] I confidently count on doing so. Vil. But allow me to argue. Mar. (with a sneer.) Argue! I fear I am deceived. Your hesita- tion shows you to be only a lacquey, and not the Chevalier Vilbrac. Vil. [ aside, bitterly. .] A lacquey ! Bar. He tried to persuade me he is that gentleman, but his spir- it proves to the contrary. Mar. You are quite right, Baron — it does. Ha ! ha ! and I wish- ed to fight this drudge. Bar. Ha — ha — an imposter ! Vil. (aside, which the Marchioness observes.) Drudge! impostor! Mar. (aside.) I'll work him up to it. (aloud.) You must have been very much frightened, my poor fellow. Vil. (snatching the remaining sword from Nykon, who exits, C.) Come on, Madame! I don't wish your pity. Mar. [aside.] At last. This is well, [aloud.'] Guard ! [they fight. Vilbrac makes her retreat. Vil. You perceive that I am not a lacquey, but a gentleman. Mar. (stopping to rest, with exhaustion.) On my honor, he fights very well, (they resume the fight, and Vilbrac disarms her.) I am dis- armed, (falling into a chair, and speaking aside.) If I had any doubts 14 A LTJCKt TUT. of his courage I am now abundantly satisfied, {aloud.') What strength you possess*! Vil. A woman cannot put it fairly to the test. The Baron shall now develope it still further. (pressing a sword on the Baron. Bar. (retreating.) Eh — fight ? No, no. I'll be content with an apology. Vil. Never. Come, don't lose time. Bar. Then I'll make you one. Vil. I'll not receive it. Defend yourself, or I'll impale you on the spot. Mar. Bravo ! bravo ! Ha ! ha ! (applauding.) (Vilbrac fights the Baron, who defends himself clumsily, and at length pinks him on the shoulder.) Bar. Enough, enough — I'm wounded. Vil. (wiping his sword.) Then honor is satisfied, and I know you for a miserable coward, (turning to Marchioness, and kneeling.) "Will you deign, madame, to pardon me for that blow inflicted by mistake ? Mar. (pulling off her mask, c.) You are fully forgiven. Bar. ) , . ,, , >. My aunt! Vil J (simultaneously.) Th " e Marchioness t Mar. (to Vilbrac.) The Marchioness now, but who was once that same little Florine of whom you told me to-day. Vil. Can it be possible that the Marchioness Espalier is the same Elorine I once loved at St. Germains. Mar. (playfully.) The very identical one, with certain additions and improvements too numerous to mention. Vil. [aside. J It has all the wildness of a vision, (aloud.) And how about the dragoon officer and England. Mar. It was a wicked invention of your aunt to drive me out of your mind. Vil. Instead of which it drove me almost out of my own. And tell me about that blow last night. I am still in the dark. Mar. It was received by me. Vil. A thousand pardons, dearest Florine ; for I will still call you so. The Baron has been good enough to take me into his con- fidence, and tell me the story of your marriage. I know you are now the most charming of widows. Bar. But she need not be so any longer. I offer her my hand. Vil. And take care you do not get my foot in return, (throwing the coins at him.) There are your bribes, old man. Mar. And do you love the Marchioness as you once loved Florine ? Vil. With my whole soul ; and, singular as it may appear, it strikes me I am indebted greatly to that blow last night ; for it has enabled me to restore to my arms my lost Florine. Bar. What, aunt ; you are not going to marry this man ? — Mar. Whom you yourself presented. You will be more careful in future in the selection of your servants, lest in offering me a peb- ble you find a. pearl, (stepping forward .) A LUCKY HIT. 15 And now, kind friends, a word before you go. Shall I pass, like the idle winds that blow ? For, after all, I've no wish to be hard — 'Twas but a striking proof of his regard. If you approve for what we've racked our wits, We'll think that blow the luckiest of hits. SITUATIONS. Marchioness. Chevalier. Baron. (R. H.) (L. H.) C UR TA IN. Spencer's Boston Theatre. Price, 12 1-2 Cents, each. Ten for One Dollar. BOUND VOUIMKS. ®1. VOL. XVI. 121 The Wonder, 122 The Uights of Man. 12'i lluln-ri Kmmet 124 My Husband's Ghost 12"> b'iirhtintj by I'roxy, [Game J2M Two Can Play at that L27 Uii|irotiTti'il Female, 128 Green Bushes. VOL. XVII. 12!) Flowers of the Purest 130 Forty and Fifty, 181 Who Stole the Pocketbook 132 A Bachelor of Arts. 133 My Son Diana, 134 The Midnight Banquet. 135 Unwarrantable Intrusion. 136 Mr. & Mrs. White. VOL. XVIII. 137 A Quiet Family, 138 Husband of an hour, 139 Love's Telegraph, 140 The Naiad Queen. 141 Caprice. 142 Cool as a 'oucumber, 143 Sudde^Thoughts, VOL. XIX. 145 The Cradle of Liberty, 146 A Blighted Being, 147 Little Toddlekius, 14} The Lost Ship, 149 A Lover by Proxy, [Pail, 150 Maid with the Milking 151 Country Squire, 152 Perplexing Predicament. VOL. XX. 153 Fraud and its Victims, 154 Or. Dilworth. 155 Out to Nurse, liG Putnam. 157 The King and Deserter. 153 A Lucky Hit, 159 The Dowager, 160 La Fiammina, VOL. XXI. 101 A Hard Struggle, 162 Gwiuueth Vaughan, 163 164 165 166 167 168 VOL. XXII. 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 VOL. XXIII. 177 173 179 180 181 182 183 134 VOL. XXIV. 135 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 VOL. XXV. 193 194 195 196 197 198 ; 199 200 VOL. XXVI. 201 2it2 203 2i)4 205 206 207 2U8 VOL. XXVII. 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 VOL. XXVIII. 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 VOL. XXIX. 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 VOL. XXX. 233 2.34 235 236 237 238 239 240 PARCELS SENT TO ANY PART OF THE CITY. %gf Orders by Mail or Express will be promptly attended to.. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS "F^^-i r 1 !*^ TT>i -PI lllllllllll 015 825 854 7 • LELAND'S DRAMATIC WORKS, No. 3. • THE FALSE AND THE TRUE. A DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS, 15 Y OLIVEE S. LELAND, AUTHOR OP " The Right* of Man," " Caprice," " The Inheritance." " Ihe Czarina, BOSTON: WILLIAM V . SPENCER. 128 Washington Street, Corner of Water Street. Iix Press, Tla.o Inlieritance.