Class jL$SfJ_2 Book._X&i~i.2 CopightN J909 COPYRIGHT DEPOSm ANTONY AND HERO AND ^•FISHING FOR FAME BY- SIMMIE, F. Simon, Publisher. NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT. 1901. Je< Copyright, 1901. By F. Simon. All Rights Reserved. POETICAL SELECTIONS. Hero's description of sunrise. Act 1, Scene 1. Why, I'was awake, and In serious meditation, an hour before O'er eastern mountains in it's distant orb, The sun arose in fiery majesty, And was admiring how the sparkling dew Did grace the changing landscape hereabouts, As sol's slow creeping fire did burnish every drop. Antony's praise of ambition. Act 1, Scene 1. Well has he succeeded In his fight for fame, and I am proud of His acquaintance. Well do I remember, How in our youthful sports, he ever did Affect commanding, a leadership Was always his ambition, and on that He has built a monument of fame. I Was ever known for and proud of my strength, And age made that youthful pride a serious Ambition till I became an athlete. A man's life is modeled out in youth By an unseen power, and as he dies So was it destined. Alice trying to encourage Leopole. Act 1, Scene 3. Come Leopole, be merry, This sullenness does not become you, and You have no cause for being so. One defeat Is no disgrace, not when your victories Are summed up. 'Twas an honor to be matched To Antony. Come let's be merry as usual. Antony's praise of uniforms. Act 2, Scene 1. Oh such a specticle ! Look ! Look ! He was wise, Who first suggested uniforms for soldiers, For while formidable to the enemy, They inspire a friend. Look ! See how more imposing Than the citizens, and yet they are but people. And this martial music, Makes one almost wish for foes. Herd's defense of Antony. Act 2, Scene 1. Tis false, I swear it ! I have been his inmost friend For many years, and have oft heard him praise Your qualities and ambition. He was The first to applaud your every promotion, Of all your friends he was most eager to hear from you,. And good news he would address as though Your person with : Brave Charles with but a few More strides we shall say Great Charles ! 'Twas he Suggested, as my father knows, all these New entertainments for to-day, and he Worked for their completion so increasingly, There was no time for conspiring. And now You call him your enemy, and a traitor, For this small accident that only seemed to harm. Hero's love for Antony. Act .2, Scene S. Think you I would encourage a man, who Downed my Antony '. J No ! If Antony dies, •Why so do I to all the world. I would live and die a dry old spinster With no occupation, but training flowers For his monument. Antony's generosity and confidence in his friends. Act 4, Scene '. No, No. You live, Live and be famous, live and be honored As an athlete, for the people must have one For their amusement and their idol, and Who is there but you that is worthy, and Entitled to their praise? And, Leopole, All the medals and trophys I have won, I've willed to you, they with my titles When I am dead are yours, with my best wishes That you honor them, and there is no one More confident than I am that you will. Antony, — Champion Athlete, Charles,— A Duke's Officer, Leopole, — Ex-Champion Athlete, Abraham, — Judge and Hero's Father, Wiggins, — Jailor, Swipes, — His Assistant, ' Tom Sawyer,— ) - Tough Characters. Bill Judson,— \ Johnson, — Prosecutor, Jones,— Sheriff, Hero,— Antony's Love, flargaret,— Antony's Sistor, Theresa, — Hero's Maid, Alice, — A Cortizan, Citizens, Officers, Band, Soldiers. Act I. (Scene 1.) Abraham discovered. Abraham. — Now has father time began that day, which crowns My happiness, and brought sol's glowing light O'er eastern mountain tops to do his part. Oh happiness to think, my daughter weds To-day, and weds a man that's loved by men. What luck of fortune what anything brings More joy to a loving father, there's nothing. It has brought youth back to my mind, but not My bones, for if it had I'ld dance and leap, And somersault for joy. But no, mine must Be expressed with pleased appearances. She Will wed Antony ere night, Antony The famous athlete, He who so lately conquered Leopole, The favorite of the duke his chum, called Hercules by all, and praised above him All for his qualities,. Untill Antony o'erthrew him as though He had no opposition and many Claim 'twas so for policy to lure some Spicy wager on another trial. No, no ! That desperate aspect such tugging and Straining that every muscle seemed to swell An inch, that red complexion as when Exertion crowds a man's blood against his Skin and forces out large beads of sweat, such Heaveing at the finish to catch his breath All prove that Leopole was not trifeling. I'll not believe it. I have double cause For joy, for to-day I will be relieved Of my political cares for brave Charles, A chum of Antony's as bo} 7 s, But seperated these five years by their Professions to seek fame and fortune, and Well they have succeeded, Antony the Mighty athlete and Charles the brave soldier. T will be a sight to see those famous leaders In their callings meet, with their mutual love Since childhood. Charles fame and qualities, Have won for him succession to my office, Which he comes to-day to accept, and I Will be relieved. But ho ! Come, come, be merry. [Rings for and enter servant.) Where's Hero, not up yet ! Go make her stir. [Exit servant.) The day's and hour gone. She must be Much contented to sleep so long this day. [Enter Hero.) Hero.— Good morning. Did you think me tardy? Abr. — You are not much interested in your Marrying or you'd been about ere this. Hero. Why. I was awake and in Serious meditation, an hour before O'er eastern mountains in his distant orb The sun arose in fiery majesty. And was admiring how the sparkling dew Did grace the changing landscape hereabouts, As sol's slow creeping fire did burnish every drop. Abr.— You should be gay and happy, this is no time For seriousness — Hero.— But my future happiness Is a serious question. Abr. It was. But with such a husband as Antony To care for that you should be merry. Hero. — It always was my nature to be serious And I thank my maker for that fault. I Would not for the world be giddy, for then rid not have Antony's love. Abr. — The happiness that comes from love lies not, As some claim, all in the procuring, there's More in the preserving. And if you would Keep fresh your husbands love, take these receipts From my experience. First, do not be dominering, for heaven Decreed that woman should not equal man. Think more of comforting your husband, than Of teaching him, and if in aught you think He's wrong and cannot change him with A sort of suplicating modest way, Convince yourself he's right. In cleanliness, In order, yea in everything be so precise As to consider all your imperfections, As transgressions. Tis the duty of The husband to furnish means of sustainance For his family. 'Tis the duty of The wife to use those means to best advantage, For both the happiness and comfort of Her family. You are both worthy of each other Which is much towards making your love mutual. Hero.— My father, glad I am to be advised By anyone with more experience, And you can be content these maxims shall For reference ever be, deep graven in My memory. (Enter Leo.) Leo.— -Good morrow both, and happy day. Hero. — Good morrow, Leopole. Abr. — Good morrow to you, and your looks proclaim, A wish of happiness unnecessary. Leo. — I have good cause for happiness for I Come direct from your successor. The first I saw of him in five long years. Abr. — How does He look and how behave himself amongst His honors? Glad to be back no doubt. Leo. — Tall and handsome but A little stiff to me as though to say, My position sir, calls for respect. Hero.— 'Tis Conceitedness, 'tis natural to him. He was so as a boy. 9 Leo. — Prepare To welcome him for he'll be here ere long On business. He wished me to remind you. To make all preparations for the parade. Abr. — 'Twas unnecessary. The paraders Will be ready when we are. We shall march About and arrive at the tribunal So as to install him at high noon when My term expires. Leo. — He is anxious to have Much celebration. Abr. — The preparations Are the grandest I've yet known. (Exit Abr. enter Theresa.) Ther. — Oh Hero Antony is coming. Good morrow Leopole. Leo. — Good morrow. Hero. — He is coming for us, for there's a good view From his porch of this parade to which we Are invited. I'll go prepare myself For I promised to be waiting for him. (Exit Hero. ) Ther. — Happy are they for they'll be man and wife Ere night. Leo. — I envy Antony. Ther. — All men do That know her. But here he comes and his sister to. (Enter Ant., Marg.) Ant. — Good morrow. Leo. — Good morrow Antony. Ther. — Good morrow Antony and Margaret. Marg. — Good morrow both. Ant. — Love must be contagious for These private interviews mean nothing else. Ther. — Oh I've oft heard of two diseases Whose symptoms were alike. Ant. — Where's my partner In this sickness? We'll groan, and heave, and make A hospital of this room. Ill Mary. — And I'll be All your physicians. Ant, — No, no. The disease Is very contagious, and your none To vigorous to catch it. Marg. — Yes, I see It effects even those who are famous For their strength. Ant. — Well how goes it with Leopole? Marg. — I see it effects even those, who are Famous for their strength. Ant. — I admit. But how is Leopole? Leo. — Oh fairly well. I've just come from Charles. Ant, — How is he? He must have come this morning For I looked for him last night. But has he change* I? Leo. — You'll see him soon yourself, for he'll be here Before the parade. Ant, — A five year's seperation of two such palls. You cannot imagine how this meeting 's Looked for. But how does he look, as large as I? Leo. — Tall and handsome with a military brace. Ant. — Well has he succeeded In his fight for fame, and I am proud of His acquaintance. Well I do remember, How in our youthful sports, he ever did Affect commanding, a leadership Was always his ambition. And on that He has built a monument of fame. I, Was ever known for and proud of my strength, And age made that youthful pride, a serious Ambition till I became an athlete. A man's life is modeled out in youth By an unseen power and as he dies, So was it destined. But no more lecturing (Enter Hero. \ For here's a better subject. Good morrow. Hero. — Good morrow Antony. I see 3 T ou're here. 11 Ant. — I wish I had been these last few hours, Fid a Rid myself of them, for it tortured me To think that father time kept us apart. Marg. — I will leave, the disease is very catching, And I must not expose myself being frail. Ther. — I'll go to. (Exit Marg., They.) Leo. — I'll go have a consultation With your father. (Exit Leo.) Hero. — What new styled bickering Is this? Ant. — Theresa and Leopole were At some private conversation as we Entered. I proclaimed it a sign of love, They turned the joke on me, and made love in me A contagious disease. And love so would I have it with you alone as my physician And have you catch it. Hero. — Why so it is Antony. Ant. — As we have our wishes we must be happy. (He embraces her, she takes a tie from lii)n.\ Hero. — This will I keep. Ant. — I cannot be without it From here to home. Hero. — You must. Ant. — I'll not. (Goes to take it from her. Enter Leo.) Leo. — • Hem, Hem. Let the patient enter the consultation. Come Anthony you are wanted. Ant. — Give me my tie. Hero. — No, No. My father is waiting. (Exit Ant. Leo.) I'll Not give it to him. I'll hide it. But where ? I'll make a garter of it and let him Take it off to-night for then I'll be his wife And t'will please him. Oh Antony in my eyes Thou alone of all men art to be loved. (Ties on the garter) Tis quite a novel way of pleasing him, But I guess he'll not think less of me for it. (Enter Char. \ 12 Oh Charles, welcome. This is a gala day, From all quarters. Glad I am you have returned Char. — It does feel good to be amongst the old Familiar scenes and faces once again. Hero.) — It seems more than an age since you left. You will remain amongst us now I hope. Char. — Yes I will remain among those I love. Hero. — How was it abroad, did you like it ? Char. — Anything that I could wish for was mine, But that is naught, wealth, station, fame or sport All are nothing without love, that I had Left behind. Hero. — Were there no friends or ladies there That you admired ? Char. — No, No. They say, man truly loves but once. Hero. — And was your love here? Char. — Yes Hero. Hero. — And why Did you not send for her ? Char. — Would she have come ? Hero. — Why sure she would, if she loved you. Char. — Hero, Can't you see, 'tis you I mean, 'tis you Hove. 'Tis for you I've pined these five long years. (He embraces her. Marg. appear and exit. ) Hero. — Then you must learn to forget me. I spoke But as a friend to you, not thinking you'ld Take this privelege. You know I never Loved you even as a boy. Besides, I will Be Anthony's bride ere night. Char. — What ! You'll marry Antony, that drone, who dares no further Than calling distance from his mother ? Hero. — Save yourself and tell him so. Char.— No! I'll not Speak as much to him. 13 Hero.— I thought so, but You would were he a woman, brave soldier. Char. — T'was not in fear I spoke but in honor, I am no more within his sphere, No, nor ever was, As a boy I used His company for pastime. Hero — And he used you As a mop for pastime. Char.— With his strength he did, But of that the ignorant have the most, And such he is, born to sleep and rot In his mother's lap, while I went about The world and fought through fire and smoke for fortune And a name. Hero. — In sham battles you might have, For 3 t ou never were where courage alone Would bring you. If I had Antony's name, I would not trade for yours, besides, I'd rather Have him just plain body and soul, than you With all the polishings from titles Ever bestowed. Char. — My business now is with Your father. Will you call him '? Hero.— I believe, He is coming. (Enter Ant. Leo. Abr. following.) Ant.— If ever a man did die of ecstasy I will to-day, Why Charles, how are you? (Reaches out his hand. Chas^ coldly salutes.) Char, to Hero.— I have business with Your father. Hero.— Antony, I Have oft been told, that they who inherit Fame or fortune, use either like fools would Through ignorance of the way, Now I believe it. (Char. Abr. Leo. converse.) Ant. — It cannot be he's grown so proud. No, Hero, He has been through much excitement the last 14 Few days which has quite unnerved him, when that Is settled he will regret this, and I'll Forgive him. Hero. — Perhaps. But You should remember he was ever so. Ant. — Well, forget that now and give me my tie. Hero. — No, I will not. Ant — You must, I cannot venture From here to home without it. Hero. — You must, for I cannot give it to you now. Ant. — And why not? Hero. — Never mind, I will get you One of my father's. Ant — And why not my own ? Tell me. Hero. — I'll not, another is as good. Ant. — I must know why not my own. Hero. — Well, if you must know, it is my garter. And let it be till you yourself this night Kemove it, for then we will be wedded. Ant. — A kiss and it's a bargain. {They kiss.) Hero. — And If any man can show you it ere night, I will not deny he has seduced me. Ant. — And I will hold you to your word. Char, aside. — I would give my office for that tie. Hero. — Come We'll after Theresa and Margaret And prepare us for the parade. (Exit both . | Char. — Now all's Complete for our exchanging offices This noon. Abr. — I have for weeks been getting ready, Wait, I will get the papers. (Exit Abr.) 15 Char. — Leopole, You are jealous of this Antony, who Conquered you by accident, and who now Wears your honors. He who is looked at As a hero, while you are passed by but As a common man. Say that you are. Leo.— Well, No doubt I'd like the honors, but he earned them. Char. — But you can have them, and I will help you Get them and pay you well for what you do Towards getting them. I would rather see you Than he looked up to. Leo. — I would have to conquer him ere they'ed be mine. Char. — I say no. Listen, you are a friend Of Theresa, Hero's maid. Leo. — Yes. Char.— Well, Hero wears a necktie as a garter, Get that for me and I will make you rich, And honored. With Theresa's help you can. No questions now, do as I bid and I'll Do as I said, make you rich and honored. Leo. — I would do anything to be again In favor. Char. — They are in there, go do your best To get that tie, 'tis worth a fortune. {Enter Abr. Leo starts out. ) Abr. — Here are the papers. (Scene closes.) In (Scene 2.) A Street. [Enter jagged citizens from one side. Bill from the other.) 1st Cit, — Hurra ! These sporting days don't come often. Come we will have another drink. Bill. — What cronicaled event has earned this holiday? 1st Cit. — Well, if here ain't Bill and jollying as usual. Come make up the party, we're in for a good time. Are you with us ? Bill. — And where are you making for ? 1st Cit. — To the Cobweb first, then to see the parade. Are you with us ? Bill. — Am I with you? Well I guess. But say, is Tom going ? 1st Cit, — Why, sure Tom is with us. Bill, — Then count me out, then count me out. I am above his company. Tom, — Now what is there about me causes this dislike ? Bill. — Oh, that headlight, that boquet on your face. Tom. — Why, I bought that myself, and all else that I wear. Bill — You forgot, those clothes there're from my last donation day. I will have to have another, you begin to look seedy. Next Monday, Tom. Tom. — You talk of donating. All you own that's not on your back is security for your board. 1st Cit. — No more boys, for here comes Charles, the newly elected. (Enter Charles.) Bill, Tom, Cit.— Hurra ! for Charles. Char, salutes. — Tanks friends, come have a drink. Cit. — Certainly. Bill. — With pleasure. Tom. — At your service. B&L—Th&t tickles us, ay Tom ? Tom. — A good man for the office, the election should come oftener. Char. — Come everybody. (Exit Char.) 17 Tom. — That's unnecessary coaxing. {Exit Tom, Bill.) 2st Cit, — A wise man is Charles, now we shall have good judging. 2d Cit. — Wise he is, and we shall. 1st Cit. — He looked wise. 2d at— He did that. 1st at. — Did you note how little he said, and how stern he looked, and how he did salute. That's wisdom, that's learn- ing. Now you have seen a great man. 2d at. — Ay. 1st at, — But come, we'll be with them. (Exit Citizens.) (Scene closes)) (Scene 3.) A Barroom. (Leo. and Alice discovered.) Alice, — Come, Leopole be merry, This sullenness does not become you and You have no cause for being so. One defeat Is no disgrace, not when your victories Are summed up. 'Twas an honor to be matched To Antony. Come, let's be merry as usual. Leo. — Go 'way, you pratting fool. 'Twas such as you Caused my defeat, you, who make the fortunate Your victims, and prey on them so long As they have money, then cast them off for others, Go way, I say. I cast you off Before I'm so far gone that you'll cast me. Alice, — Oh I'm not so sorry as you thought I'ld be, But I'll get even with you for this. (Enter Char., Bill, Tom., Cit., they go to the bar.) All— Hurrah for Charles. Char. — Come what will it be? (They drink.) Leo. — Such is fortune's greeting no man gets it. My fortune got it once but Both have left me. Why are there two such words As fortune and favour? 18 One is superfluous, they mean the same, They are inseperable, no man has Either, they come and go together as Natural, as heat and cold to summer And winter. They are what all are after But few get, and no man seeks them singly. 'Tis misery to. want them, 'tis misery To have them, and yet they're wanted. They were Mine once but they escaped me, and now I Seek again. Charles will aid me if I will Be false to Antony who has so much Befriended me. Who would not if they could By crooked by-ways come to fortune, if Naught but poeple's opinion were the punishment ? None but the simple. And they alone for want of reason, would doubt The outcome of a chance. I'll not be such. I will do anything to be again With fortune and with favour. Who is there That has had a leadership o'er his companions, An assendancy o'er all, could endure Being common and with my chance ? Oh fame, Why is thy charm so strong? Why is thy yield So great? Why is the entrance to your domain So complicated, and yet to seem so simple ? Art thou the curse from heaven to Adam ? Bill— Hurra ! He has our voices. None before Him was as good, ay Tom ? Tom. — Hurra ! He's in my favour. OU's. — Hurra ! (Char, comes to Leo. ) Char. — Well Leopole, why so gloomy? Come have one. Leo. — I'm gloomy for your good And mine. 'Tis brooding harm to Antony Makes me so. Char. — Yes, we must down him, and that To-day. No doubt he'll be a spectator To the parade from his house. If some accident Should happen there, and blame him for it ? 19 Leo.— He'll view It from his porch and that is lined With cobbles. If one of them could he pushed off While he is there ? {Alice listening.) Char. — And as I pass. Do that And your fortune will return. {They whisper.) {Bill, Tom, Citizens shaking dice.) Bill. — 'Twas a duce. Tom. — 'Twas a six. Bill. — 'Twas a duce. " Tom.— 'Twas a six I say. Afraid you'll get stuck ? Bill— No, you loggerheaded fool, but I'll not get cheated. Tom.— Who's a loggerheaded fool ? Bill— You ! (They fight, Citizens try to stop them.) {Jit.— Come, stop, be friends. Bill, Tom, stop ! Proprietor. — Go outside for such business. I'll have no dis- turbance in my place. (Rushes them out.) Leo. — And what is your motive In downing Antony ? Char.— You know Hero, Whom he is to wed to-day ? I wished her For myself, but she this morning snubbed me And went to praising Antony so She must have broken my gall, and I'll never Rest easy if they are happy. Leo. — What does the tie in this ? Char.— Did you get it ? Leo.— No, but I will, for I have bargained with Theresa To procure it, and what I wish she'll do. Char.— Then get it Without fail, for with that I'll torture him If nothing more. Well, I must away. Don't fail But have an accident before his house. Leo.— I will try all possible means to. Alice.— And T Will try all possible means to stop you. Char.— Who is this thing ? 20 Alice. — This thing is what knows all your plans. Char. — What, spying on us ? Alice. — No, accidently overheard. Char. — You lie. You have been spying. Alice. — And if I have, what of it ? Char. — Yes, what of it, even if you did hear all we said 2 Alice. — Oh, I might bother you a bit, if I See Antony first. Chw. — You bother us, you fallen witch, One word from me would lock you up for months. Alice. — Then say the word and lock me up, if you can, But I'll do some mischief first, and you can blame Him for it. I have befriended him In all I could for more than a year, and Now he turns me off as trash and blames me For his misfortune. Leopole, that was A dose of poison to me, rank poison, And it will take something rank to drive it out. I will bring your plans to Antony, that May relieve me some. So Good-Bye. I'll see Whether you'll wear his honors or not. (Starts to go. i Char. — Stop her. (Leo stops her.) We'll keep you from harm until you are harmless. (To proprietor.) Have you a room we can lock her in for a few hours ? Prop. — Right here. Bring her in. Char. — I've never been fooled by man, so I'll not let woman start it, Put her in there ! (Alice fights and screams.) \ To prop.) Let her out in a couple of hours. Now, Leopole, I will go meet the procession. You go To Antony's, and don't fail or weaken In our plans, for there's much for you to gain, And my revenge. (Scene closes. ) 21 Act II. Before Antony's Home. {Citizens discovered lined up like viewing a parade.) (Enter Tom, Bill and Citizens.) Bill.— -We'll find no better place, let's wait here until they have Tom.— 'Twill be a long wait without a drink. Keep moving, we'll meet some place to stop in. It's better than standing here. Bill.— you've got a good load aboard now, let that settle, then you'll have time and room for another. Tom.— Your load must bother you that you refuse. BUI. — I have a little sense. Tom,— I never saw you pass a barroom when you had cents enough to buy a drink. BUI— You never got that blossom from fresh air. (Enter Ant., Hero, Marg., Ther.) Look, there's Antony. Hurra, for Antony ! AIL— Hurra! Ant,— Thanks friends, For such you must be to give this greeting To one who has not earned it. You better Save your lungs, for there are some coming soon Who deserve your applause. Tom.— If I had done what you have, I would knock him down, who would not greet me well. Ant. — Here is the porch all fitted for our comfort. Hero. — And a lovely view for quite a distance Up and down. Marg. — That's why we gave The invitation. Twer hardly worth one From a lesser view. Ant. — We have not long to place ourselves, so we May as well use all the time. But where is Leopole ? 22 Ther.— He had an errand to fulfil But promised to be here sre now. Here he comes. You go in the while, I'll wait for him. Ant. — Another private interview, still you'll Deny your sick. Ther. — Well I'll not have your physician For you grow worse. Marg. — What you say Antony, seems but to feed her wit. {Exit Ant., Hero, Marg. Enter Leo. Ther. helps them in. Leo. (aside) — Now to my fiendish work, for such it is, To mention friendly things to Antony While I think but of harming him, the which I am sorry is necessary to My ambitious desires. Why was I Ever famous ? That now I must so envy Antony to sustain myself and In the guise of friendship play the villian. Oh, dam this weakening. I'll not endure Being common. (Ther. comes to Leo.) Ther. — You are very punctual. Leo. — There is a clock in every lover's mind, That is regular through love, and he who Is tardy in his love meetings, loves not. Ther. — You talk of love to me I doubt you, You know so many others. Leo. — Were we not So conspicuous here, I would prove my love. If humbling myself to you would do it. Ther. — You seem to cold and wise for a lover. Leo. — These citizens, these slaves Of love and passion, would mock at true love Were they to see it. But tell me, have you The tie you promised to procure ? Ther. — Yes, here it is,. But I would like to know what value it has To you. Leo. — 'T was Antonys, he wore it as 23 A mascot, he claimed it had a charm, and As I am supersticious, I value it. Ther. — They must not know how you came by it. Leo. — They never shall. (Antony appears on porch.) Ant. — I know a stanza That each of you could sing to the other And save your wit, for 'tis just what you wish To say : I love my love in the morning, I love, (Hero, Marg. come on the porch.) But come up they are approaching. (Exit Leo, Theo.) Bill. — He is wide in the shoulders. Tom. — Less than Antony and smaller legged. Bill. — Use your eyes, use your eyes man, and see That Leopole is larger every way And better proportioned. Tom. — Man you talk through drink. 'Tis plain to common sense, that Antony Is best man, he conquered Leopole. Could he if he were worse ? (Officer passes and places them in line.) Bill. — Yes when Leopold let him. There was naught At stake. Leopole would wager A dozen fortunes on another trial, But Antony refuses for fear. Tom.— He lost his reputation that was worth a fortune. Bill. — What is reputation ? wind, nothing else. Tom. — 'Tis on reputation most money 's made. Bill. — Have your way to stop your crying. Tom. — I'm not crying and I wont be. But you know I'm right. Bill. — Go sleep it off, your brain is muddy. Tom. — No, my brain is not muddy. Bill. — Go away. (Pushes him.) Tom. — No, I'll not go. -Bill. — Go away I say, I'm through with you. (Pushes him again.) 24 Tom. — No, you can't push me. (They fight, officer arrests them.) Bill.—'T was his fault. Tom. — No, he began it by insulting me. (Exit officer, Bill, Tom prisoners.) Hero. — How brutal were Those men, I should think, their bones are broken. Ant. — They are intoxicated and cannot Hurt each other. They will forget this, and Be friends when they are sober. Hero. — You seem well schooled as to the effect of drink. Ant — Oh well, a man needs not be a debauch To know the effects of liquor, a few Good sprees will teach him. Hero. — I thought my Antony was temperate. Ant — I have been since I told you so, but I Had sprees before then. (Enter the porch Leo, Ther.) Leo. (aside.) — This cobble must I push off While Charles is passing as though Antony Maliciously had hurled it at him. I am Not myself. I would do what 'ere is prompted. Ant— Oh, such a spectacle. Look ! Look ! He was wise Who first suggested uniforms for soldiers, For while formidable to the enemy They inspire a friend. See how more imposing Than the citizens, and yet they are but people. Marg. — I think Antony chose wrong to become An athlete. Hero. — A soldier is so much abroad. (Band passes.) Ant—- And this martial music, Makes one almost wish for foes. Leo. aside. — You need not wish for them, Keep interested so 'twill make my task More easy. (A company passes.) Ant — This is a brave company, Captain Beache's, Look, that's he with the medals. They're for His bravery, they rhyme to his courage, 25 The hottest fight is his delight. His comrades seem to know naught but stories Praising him. But see, here comes Charles, how imposing grand. Leo. aside. — My cue to be prepared. Ant. — There is a charm In fame makes all curious to see him The} 7 would pass a thousand times unnoticed Were he unknown. {Appear Char., Abr. on horseback.) Leo. aside. — Be steady my hand For if by accident I should down Charles, I down myself. (Ant. leans far over.) Ant. — Hurra for Charles. (Leo. pushes cobble.) Char. — Treachery, traitors, a conspiracy, (he unhorses himself). Soldiers seize him, surround the house, cut off His escape. 'Twas Antony hurled this cobble Towards our person ; seize him he is a traitor, Search the house for more, he shall be rewarded. Who 'ere takes him or his accomplices, For no doubt he is not alone in this. How can we govern safely with enemies So near in friendship to our person? Ant, — What madcap spouting do you here to call me Traitor, and offer honors to my captors? (jumpts down.) Here, win them yourself, fori did ever Wish to help you to them. [Exit above, Hero, Ther., Mary.) Char. — Seize him, he is Dangerous who so publicly offers harm. Abr. — There must be some mistake, an accident. Char. — An accident, to come so near my life? No, 'tis a studied plot, I saw him hurl it. Ant— You lie ! And know you do, but you're so used to that You have them studied and they come easy, But this is serious, I'll not deny I caused that cobble to fall, but 'twas an accident. Char. — You lie ! I saw vou hurl it ! 26 Ant— I'll crowd That lie back in spite of your position. (Ant. clowns Mm. i Char. — Seize him men. (Soldiers hold Ant. | (Enter Hero, Marg., Ther., Leo. Hero. — My Antony, was it Your accident caused this transformation From blissful liberty to stern captivity? Ant. — That's his excuse, But I swear he has some deeper motive That prompts him to it. Hero to Char. — And do you for this wish him prisoner ? Char. — What more terrible crime could he commit, Than attempt the lives of the duke's officers? Hero. — 'Tis false, I swear it ! I have been his inmost friend For many years and I know his mind, And have oft heard him praise Your qualities and ambition. He was The first to applaud your every promotion, Of all your friends he was most eager to hear from you, And good news he would address as though Your person with : Brave, Charles, with but a few More strides we shall say Great Charles. 'Twas he Suggested as my father knows, all these New entertainments for to-day, and he Worked for their completion so inceasingly, There was no time for conspiring. And now You call him your enemy and a traitor For this small accident that only seemed to harm. Char. — This is no woman's affair. Hero. — I did not Wish to settle it, but I told what I know. Char. — It matters not what you do know, friendship Must be forgot in dealing with traitors. (To Cap.) — Captain, deal with him quickly and severely, We'll rid ourselves of traitors. You have my orders. 27 Abr. — Stop, you have not mine, And I am master yet. From noon my office Will be yours, but till then I shall command. Char. — There's no commanding in this case, there is A special decree to hang all traitors. Abr. — Yes, when it's proven they're traitors. Char. — And is he not who came so near my life ? Abr. — It is not proven. Char. — He shall be arrested and tried ? Abr.— That he shall. Char. — Captain, Take him to prison and have him doubly Bound and guarded. Abr. — Citizens, As the gods with their disposing power, Have thought best to place in Antony's lot This accident by which his enemies Do draw suspicion on him, he shall For their satisfaction be tried just like A criminal. So we must Postpone our celebration, and once more Do our office duties which we thought were through. Char. — Away with him to prison. (Exit Char., Leo. one side, the rest the other.) (Scene closes.) (Scene 2.) A Street. (Enter Citizens Meeting.) 1st Cit. — Hallo Jack ! Where away so fast? Jack. — I'm going to dress up and go to the trial. 1st Cit. — What trial is to you so interesting ? Jack. — You ask what trial ? Why, where have you been man, drunk or fishing ? 1st Cit. — Neither, but what makes you so excited ? 28 Jack. — And have you not heard that Bill and Tom are arrested, and Antony, the athlete, too ? Cit. — Bill and Tom and Antony. What's Antony done ? Jack.- Attempt on the life of Charles. While he was passing Antony's house, Antony from a porch hurled a cobble at him and most killed him. They think it is some conspiracy and more are in it whom they must catch, but they will try Antony right off. Cit — Is Charles hurt much ? Jack. — Just scraped his leg, he was on horseback. Cit- Could'nt Antony escape ? Jack. — He did'nt try. He was on the porch and Charles was offering rewards to who would capture him, and he jumped down and says : -'Take me yourself." Cit — The fool. Got scared after he d done it, no doubt. Jack, — No, no, he claimed 'twas an accident he could not help. Cit. — The law won't excuse him from that. Accidents don't count in law. When I fell through Jerry's window 'twas an accident, but I had to pay. 2d Cit — He's gone for if he monkeys with the law. Jack, — Well, he's arrested, and I am going to see what they'll do with him. Charles wanted the soldiers to take and hang him from where they were, but old Abe would'nt have.it. He said he had to be tried first. 1st Cit, — Oh, he'll go free, I bet. He goes with Abe's daughter. he's in the clique. If it were any one of us, they'd a shot us on the spot. Jack. — I don't think Antony's a traitor. I think 'twas an accident. 2d Cit, — So do I, I don't think he's that kind. 1st Cit, — Why should he turn traitor ? Sure not for gain, and I'd rather have his honors than Charles. 2d Cit — And I. But why are Bill and Tom in again ? Fighting I suppose. Jack. — They were arguing and neither would give the other the point and be laughed at, so they fought it out. 29 1st Cit — Who whipped ? Jack. — 'Twas close, they're both game. 1st Cit. — Both brave men with lots of sand. You must knock out either to make him give in. Jd Cit. — I've seen both take hard trashings and not squeal. Jack. — 'Twas a pretty fight as far as it went, and if it had not been stopped, it'ld a been well worth seeing through. Tom gave Bill a nice uppercut. 2d Cit— Who stopped them ? Jack. — Oh, thick Dugan, and if Fid a been either, Fid a given him one would a done him good. Jd Cit. — One is allhe'ld stand, he's a very coward, no more sand than a rabbit. He got a good punishment from me once before he was officer. He's no good. Jack. — Well, I'm off, I want to see this trial. Coming ? All.— Shure. (Scene closes.) (Scene 3.) Charles, Officers in Courthouse. (Enter Char., Leo and guards.) Char. — Go, guards, Try and find accomplices in this plot, Leave us, for I think we're safe within These walls. (Exit guards.) Dam your clumsiness that almost Made me cripple. Leo. — . 'Twas not intended I Assure you. But then 'tis well, 'twill make our plot More like a treacherous conspiracy Against your person. Char.— What ! To cripple me For evidence against my enemies ? Hold you my word so light ? No, no, my word's Enough. I, as their future judge must have Some power, and I say : He is a traitor. 30 Leo. — Yes, but Abraham, the present judge Will not believe it. He has some power. Char. — He must believe it ! I'll not let that gray bearded fool best me, Besides he can reckon the lasting of His power in minutes, it is so short, Then I will have full sway, and woe to him Who interferes with or proposes aught Against my wishes. Leo. — Yes, but Abe is still In power and will be through this trial. Char. — How can we prevent it? Leo.— Why, I will be A doubtful witness, as though I knew not How to think, neither favouring nor opposing Antony. One that has seen much and yet Knows little, and I'll be as though unwilling To disclose that little. And then you make The questioning of me very minute. That way this trial will easily outlast The remainder of his term. Char.— Good point. You should have studied law. Leo. — But I see they're coming, 'twer best we were Not seen together in private. I'll be Away and you can learn their plans. Char. — Be where I can find you. (Exit Leo.) Now to convince old Abe There was a plot against me. (rubs his leg.) Fid much rather This had not happened. (Enter Abr. and others.) Abr. — Go find the officers Of this court and summon them for speedy Business. (Exit Officers.) (To Char.) A sad task you've Made for me by accusing Antony of treason. C/iar.— Sad indeed, sad to you and sad to me, For who would have ever thought that treason :$1 Lurked, where I looked for my warmest friendship, That makes me sad. Abr. — You lie, you cur, Antony's no traitor. Nor he never bore a treacherous thought Against you, nor he'ld never hear one spoke Without through loyalty, he would proclaim It's author. No, no, 'tis that empty hotbed Of lies you call your brain, lied to your mind That there was cause for jealousy, for there Is nothing else to prompt this Terrible accusation. But it is Well you may be jealous of one you are, So much inferior to. But until You are king of all the earth, until your Word alone is law, you'll not harm Antony Unj ustly. Char. — When one has so plain to all beholders, Come so near my life, is it then unjust To accuse that one of treason ? I think It is a loyal sacrifice when that one Is so dear a friend. Abr. — You sacrifice Your friendship, it must be very fickle, I pity him whose livelihood depended On it. Char. — I want no more scolding. He's to Be tried, then let him prove he s innocent. {Exit Char.) Abr. — There's no treachery on record that has A more contemptable object than your own, That Antony is innocent, I would Stake my life, my honor and my fortune On it. I am so confident that had He fled, I'ld stand his trial, if God above Who knows his conscience, were to be judge. (Enter Officers of Court.) Fellow officers of this court, though we Have named this day a holiday and set It apart for celebration, we find 32 It necessary through an unforseen Happening to retract our edict and Make this one of our busiest days, for Great Antony, whom you all know, is accused Of treason gainst Charles, whom we were to Install in our stead. So you all prepare Yourselves with your utmost speed. {Exit Officers.) Oh God in heaven, look down upon thy Noble Antony and aid him in thy Mysterious way, for well thou knowest He is an innocent victim of proud Charles' spite. (Exit Abr., enter Char., Leo.) Leo. — A well laid plot, your quite an architect. Char. — And if, like a builder, you follow my Plans, you'll build the evidence that will crush Antony, and you'll build yourself once more To fame and fortune. Leo. — I am to far gone In this to flinch at anything. But that tie, You have no use for it now. (Shows the tie.) Char. — Shure I have (takes the tie) I thought at first that this should bring me my Revenge, but for that we've other means, so With this I'll worry him and feed my spite. Go you to him, wear this, wear it where he'll See it, as though by accident, wear it Loosely as though it had no value, and, Should he question you, why invent some lie, As, some friend of yours took it from his mistresses Leg. Mention a struggle for it and how Some oath went with her wearing it. Why I Could coin lies forever with this start, and Each would be as a knife to him. (Exit Leo.) All goes well, All seem to be in sympathy with me And aiding me to my revenge. I never Ment to be so hard on Antony, but This chance offered to me when I was hot 33 • With rage at Hero's refusal, seemed like The only means to sooth me, and I have Ventured till there is so retiring. {Enter Hero.) Ah Hero, you are indeed a welcome Sight to me in my misfortune. Hero. — I am not here To please you, but to sue to you, my lord. Char. — I am not your lord. Be more intimate Hero. Hero. — You hold Antony's liberty in your Power, so you are his lord, and his lord Is mine. You can proclaim him innocent And set him free, 'tis for that I came to sue. Char. — Hero, believe me, Antony's transgression Wounds me as much as you, but we must be Severe with traitors to discourage them. Hero. — Antony's no traitor as you know well. You dare speak of him but not to him as such. Char. — Why bother ourselves of him, you know a Traitors doom is death. He was much to you But soon shall be no more, then may I sue In your affections to take his place ? Hero. — Think you I would encourage a man who Downed my Antony ? No ! If Antony Dies, why so do I to all the world. I Would live and die a dry old spinster with No occupation but training flowers For his monument. But Charles, I came to Beg of you to retract your charge and set . My Antony free. Char. — There's but one way to Set him free, and that's at your disposal. Hero. — And how is that ? Char. — , Give your consent to be My wife and Antony shall live. Hero. — If I wished to become your wife I would Not sue for Antony's freedom, for I Did not think my chance with you was doubtful. 34 Char. — For your consent to marry me, and for Nothing else will I aid this traitor to His liberty. Hero. — Then give me time to bring this proposition To him. If he consents, why so do I. I will sacrifice myself for him. {Exit Hero. ) Char. — I never thought I would have her so soon In supplication t'wards me, nor did she, When she this morning so proudly spurned me. But nor his consent nor your consent Can make me aid to save him now, for then I'ld be suspected. {Enter Alice.) Alice. — I like the way you kept me prisoner. Char. — Well, no doubt it tamed you. Alice. — Oh no, it has made me wild and I've heard What you have done and what else you intend. But I will stop you by telling what I Overheard this morning. That will be my Revenge, and perhaps it will tame you. I Thought to find a lady here and tell her What I heard but now that she is gone I'll Go tell Antony, it might be useful To him. Char. — No, no. Don't go to him! Alice.— Oh, but I will, for what I know is a burden On my mind, and I wish to be relieved. {Approach Abr.) Char. — You shall not go. Alice. — But I'm going. {Starts out.) Char. — I say you won't go, and you won't. (Sto2)s her.) Alice. — Let me go. Help ! {Abr. seperates them.) Abr. — The lady wishes to go. {to Alice) Go ! {Exit Alice.) ( Scene doses. ) 35 Act. III. A Prison Cell and Courtyard. (Antony discovered bound, \ Ant. — Heaven grant me depth of reason to clear The mystery which surrounds my being here, There never happened, that I remember T'wix Charles and I, aught that could gall him thus To disgrace me for revenge. Could my fame Have made him wish to crush me, and could that Star which rules my destiny, have caused that Cobble to fall for his opportunity ? No, our professions are so different, They never could cause jealousy. Can it Be writ in my destiny, that this accident Should seem like treachery to Charles ? No, no, There's something gall's him, that he gave so cold A greeting for a so long seperated Friend. I hope my being Hero's choice is No motive for his hateing me, but Who knows V Kejected lovers have become So desperate, no punishment had terrors For them. If I thought she favored him, but Clung to me for her promises sake I Willingly would forget her for him, but If by cheat he tried to part us he would Have to tear me from her each joint singly. (Enter the, yard Wiggins and Assistants.) Wig. — Come, Swipes, there's not much time. We may use this grave to-day. You dig here. Svri. — Now why should I dig ? They won't bury him in the court yard. 'Twill be unnecessary work on me and I think I do enough for my pay. Wig. — You've done nothing but run for grog to-day. Swi. — There was nothing else to do, and there is no need of looking for unnecessary work. Wig. — If he is to be shot we'll bury him here. So you dig a grave. 36 Swi. — Ifknow it will be unnecessary work on me and then filling it up again, more unnecessary work. Wig.— It must be done, so dig away. Swi. — This way or that ? Wig. — Length ways of course. Swi. — How long ? Wig. — Well, he's tall, make it twice your shovel. And you joiners, here's your timbers, build a gallows. {they go to work.) Now r I've Known Antony from boyhood until now, And a wilder boy there never was. Well liked and honest outside of what boy's Motto teaches ; that, stolen fruit is sweetest ; He was the last man I thought to have as Prisioner. (Joiners hammer, Antony starts.) Ant. — What fickle fear this forced confinement give-. I start like one with a guilty conscience. (Wig. knocking) Hallo Antony. Ant. — Hallo you. Wig. — May I come in ? Ant. — If I could let you in I'ld not be here myself. (Enter Wig., Joiners hammer.) Ant. — What hammering is that, it quite unnerves me, But I know not why. Wig. — 'Tis a gallows they are building. Ant. — For who ? Wig. — Perhaps for you. Ant. — So serious. No, no. He may take My honor but he cannot wish my life. Wig.— I have often wished to wring your neck When you were at my apples, but I never thought I'ld have to do it. Ant. — You never shall, Not for my crimes, for were they all summed up, There would be but a father's whipping due. Tis not for being a criminal that I 37 Am here, but for being an impediment Somehow to the desires of Charles, but I Know not whether it be in honor or In love. Wig. — Antony, You've oft made me so desperate mad, I've Almost broke my teeth in grinding them and Cursing you in anger. Yet I believe You innocent in this. I believe you'ld Take a farm for deviltry, but would not Steal an apple for it's value. (Hero, Marg. enter yard, i Marg. — Charles made this proposition ? Hero. — Yes. Marg. — What will you do ? Hero. — Just what my Antony Bids me do. If he will have his freedom, I'll be the ransom, if not I'll die With him, I'll not have Antony either Way, so there's no choice but death, for to Live without him I will not. What's this, a Gallows and a grave '? They must be for Antony. Marg. — I'll ask him. (to Swipes.) May I ask you what you are doing ? Swi. — Certainly. Marg. — Well, what are you doing ? Sw i. — Unnecessary work . Mart). — What is it to be ? Swi. — A grave. Marg. — For whom ? Swi. — For Wiggins, the jailor. Marg. — Is he dead ? Swi. — No. Marg. — Then why are you digging a grave for him ? 38 Swi. — Tis for him, but 'tis not his. He has a prisioner they will either hang or shoot. If they shoot him he gets buried here, so I must dig the prisioners grave for Wiggins. He's the jailor. Marg. — Whose grave is it to be ? Swi. — A genuine villian's, I assure you. One who has often plagued me most to death. I would be glad they sentenced him only it makes for me unnecessary work. Marg. — Who is the villain ? Swi. — One Antony, and I have oft wished him harm. I'm happy if they shoot him. Hero. — He is not sentenced yet so don't you be Elated fool. And Margaret, until He is we will not mourn but try to aid him. Wig. — I will believe you innocent no matter what the sentence but I cannot aid you for I am but hired. Good by. ( Wig. comes out of cell. ) Ant. — Good by Wiggins, and forget my misdemeanor. Hero. — This must be the jailor. I'll ask him. (to Wig.) Are you the jailor, sir ? Wig. — Yes, Miss. Hero. — Have you the care of Antony ? Wig.— Yes, Miss. Hero. — May we see him ? Wig. — If he will have it certainly. He is in there. Marg. — I am his sister. Wig. — Then I guess he won't refuse to see you. This way, but I must lock you in with him. Hero. — Possession is nine points of the law. Then Charles with this much start could easily find Means to hold us there, but as long as he Holds Antony I wish to be held to. (they enter.) Ant. — You are two more that I'll swear believe me Innocent. Hero.— Oh Antony, what hellish fate is this Comes so abrupt into our happiness V 39 Ant. — I know not Hero, unless it is our fate. I can think of nothing that could be his Motive for wishing me removed, and I'll Swear he knows as well as God above that I'm no traitor, or ever saught his life. But how goes the cry among the citizens And my friends ? Do they believe me guilty V Marg. — All that I have heard do sympathize With you, not that they think you guilty, but For being unjustly charged with treason. Ant. — What's being done towards my case ? Marg. — They are making all preparations for a Speedy trial ere Charles term begins. Hero. — I've been to Charles to know his mind. Ant. — What said he ? Hero. — He would have me think that your transgression As he called it, gave him much pain. Ant. — Then he firmly intends to convict me V Hero. — No, he made a proposition for your life. Ant. — How liberal. Until now I never Knew he had the power to hang or shoot A man, or let him live just to his liking, But what's his proposition ? I will listen How 'ere absurd. Hero. — He says on this condition only will he Ketract his charge. That I will marry him. Ant. — So that's the cause of his dislike for me. And had he the nerve for this proposal ? He must think me a degraded plebian Who loves himself alone. No, no, Hero, I love 1113- wife and would sooner die than She should be sacrificed to him. A miserable measily coward And no one else would Try to benefit himself in this way. It cannot be that you encouraged him. Hero. — I did not encourage him, I merely 40 Listened, thinking only of doing what I could for you. And when he finished I Came here in all haste for your opinion. Ant. — You should know me better than to think me Of such fickle mettle. I'ld never approve Of sacrificing you to save myself. Hero. — Think Antony, he'll murder you if I refuse. Ant. — No, no, my Hero. He has not so much Power. He has made a charge of treason Against me, and I must stand a trial. But he must prove it ere he can harm me, So I fear him not, no more than that he Can make much trouble for me if he chooses. (Leo. enter court yard.) Leo. — Now I am to do More dirty work. I am but Charles tool. Oh courage, this is no time to falter, I have been a fickle simpleton ever since I entered this plot against Antony. One thought makes me sorry and repenting And the next one gives me courage. I hope He will see this tie and then again I Hope he wont for fear of what he'll say. Hero. — I will go to him once more, and see if I Can make him sorry for what he's done. Ant. — No, no, your supplication will but make him prouder. Hero. — I'll not feel satisfied till I've done all I can. Leo. — Jailor, may I see Antony ? Wig. — He has company now. (Hero knocks. \ But I guess they wish to leave, (opens the door.) Marg. — You need not be lonesome for here comes Leopole, so I'll go away with Hero. (Exit Hero. Marg.) Leo. — Antony, accept my sympathy, For a case like yours I never heard of. Ant. — Thanks, Leopole, for I am anxious that my friends Should think me innocent. But Leopole, 41 Did you take note of how that cobble fell '. J I was so interested I did not. Leo. — I'm sure I did not, for I Was interested too. You did lean forward though. Ant. — I was much interested, And so I think it happened, but it pains Me most that he I've done so much for, was So easily provoked to wish me harmed, For had he but common sense, he must know It was an accident. Leo. — Perhaps there is Some rivalry between you. Ant — So it seems, For he now wishes Hero's hand in marriage. Leo. — He knows not his own mind for within this hour He told me he would never marry, as He had the using of more women now Than he could tend to and stay healthy. Ant. — Were you with him ? Leo. — I went to pump him, for why he charged you With conspiracy. But he would not talk Of that, he seemed more interested in Some foolish woman as he called her, who Loved him unreasonably. Ant.— Would he Not mention what caused his sudden hate for me ? Leo. — No. As often as I broached your case, he would start off about this woman. Says he : She's a maid, mind you, about to be married to another, but she so loves me, she sought my aid to rid herself of this other, whom she cared not for. Aid. — Would he not say if it was not impulse made him accuse me ? Leo. — I tried him every way but 'twas no use, He would talk of nothing else but this maid. Why, Says he : She is so conquered by my charms, She 1 will discard her promised husband, Though not point blanc, through modesty, so she 42 Brought a plot to him. to lure her lover From the scent. Ant. — And is he so unconcerned About a life which almost depends on him ? Leo. — He said this plot was to remove Forever this prospecting husband As an impediment. And then he laughed. Ant. — Who was this maid ? and who her promised husband? Leo. — He would not say. It seemed to please him most To keep that secret, He claimed I know h^r well But could never guess. Said how she loved him ere he went away But loved him more on his return. He thought his station made the extra love, That's why he cared so little for her. Ant. — And how came he to her ? Leo. She came to him. And was overcome embracing him when Her lovers sister appeared and stopped the fun. But he has seen her since and she's now stale. She had her lovers necktie as a garter. Tied there with an oath, this he removed And cared so little for it, he threw it at me. And I thought so well of it that I do wear it. (Ant. sees if and starts.) Ant. — Who was she, say you ? Leo. — I know not, but no doubt some common strumpet. Ant. — You lie ! She who wore that tie was no such thing nor Ever stayed with Charles. 'Tis another of His dirty plots to sully her pure name He's not content with ruining mine. Leo. — Do yo u know her ? Ant. — No, no, no. But what he's done to me makes This opinion of him. No doubt 'tis true For there are many 43 That greatness will enamor. Bat you say, She brought some plot which would remove her husband? Leo. — So he told me but he'ld not mention what it was. Ant,— And she was stale to him ? Leo. — Yes, Antony. But why this agitation ? Ant. — Oh nothing. Leopole, my being prisioner Has quite unnerved me, I am not fit To entertain you, Leopole, leave me As a friend. (Leo. knocks.) Leo.- I will Antony, and will do my best To appease your prosecutor. (Wig. unlocks.) Leo. — Good by, Antony. Ant. — Good by. (Exit Leo. to court yard.) Leo. — That must have hurt. 'Twill cause This mental agony which has nothing Visable for arrousing sympathy, Like the bleeding of some painless cut which Would bring tears and sighs and gentleness from all. (Exit.) Ant.-^- Hero Charles'es stale and plotting against Her lover, why that is me. No, I'll not Believe it. But he had my tie and she Said, if any man could show me that, she'ld Not deny he has seduced her. What brought Those thoughts to her ? She plotted to rid herself Of her intended husband. Why, she was On the porch, could she have pushed that cobble ? No, no. She would not, yet it appears I Did not for I felt no jar which I would have Had my weight been on it. She did admit She came from him to me and would return To him. But then I'll not believe it. Hero Is true to me. He said her lover's sister Caught her embraceing him. Why that is Margaret. I'll be convinced. (Calls Wig.) (Enter Win.) Ant. — Is Margaret about ? Wig.~ Yes, she's at the gate. 44 Ant. — Bring her to me. (Exit Wig.) Now she can prove if Hero is false to me, She will not lie. (Enter Marg.) Ant. — When did you first see Charles since his return? Marg. — Why this morning, when we had left you to Your lovemaking for a while, I returned To tell you something, Charles must have come just ere I entered, for Hero was just greeting him, and as I Am not familiar with him, I retired Ere they had seen me. Ant. — Were they familiar ? Marg. — Why sure they were. Why not ? They are old friends. Why they embraced like lovers. Ant, — What's that, you too against me ? Have I No friends on earth ? No, no, Margaret, I Believe you, but Hero is false to me. She is Charles'es mistress, 'Twas she who plotted for my life, I am An obstacle to her enjoying him, She s with her lover now, 111 soon be there Myself and to catch them while embraceing Will be much more convincing proof. (tugs at his bonds.) Break ! break ! Don't think you can withstand a desperate Athlete's strength, (breaks away. \ Marg. — Why Antony, what do you mean ? Ant. — Away ! Don't bother me now, I'm not accountable for my deeds. (breaks the door, Wig. /firs to stop hint.) Ant, — Out of my way, out of my way ! (Knocks Wig. and Assitants down and exit.) i Scene closes.) [■> (Scene 2.) A Street. (Citizens discovered.) 1st Cit. — Think you they will punish Antony with his life ? 2d Cit. — Shure. Tis evident he is a traitor, and they either hang or shoot them. But he went so open about it and missed. 1st Cit. — The fool, with the risk he ran he should have made it more shure. 2d Cit. — Had he killed Charles he would not suffer more. 1st Cit. — And yet they call him so great. 2d Cit. — He is good at wrestling. 1st Cit. — He has no head, so he proved to-day, and it takes a head to wrestle. I always did think Leopole gave him that last match. 3d Cit. — Yes, I guess you're right. Well, if they convict him Leopole will again be champion. 1st Cit. — Yes, and I would sooner see him too. 2d Cit. — And if this ain't him, I don't know him. Speak of any one but, the devil and they'll appear. Did you ever know that proverb to fail ? I did'nt. 1st Cit. — Nor I either. (Enter Leo., they salute him.) Hurra for Leopole ! Hurra ! Leo. — How do you do, gentlemen ? Happy days. (Exit Cit.) Figuring on Antony's Execution they but surmise I'll rise And already greet my fortune. They little know the sneaky way I use To gain that fortune, but that matters not, They would not greet me for my morals. I Am sorry I ever entered this plot With Charles, but he will pay me for my share I'll warrant, and that before it is too late. (Exit Leo., enter Citizens.) 1st Cit. — You never saw Leopole ? I thought everybody knew him. There he goes, that's him. 3d Cit. — -A noble man, fine proportioned. 46 2d Cit. — And right worthy of holding the championship. 1st Cit. — There is none can down him. 2d Cit. — He's a good spender, I often drank on him. 3d Cit. — Where does he be often ? 1st Cit.— Nowhere in particular, everywhere or anywhere, just as it happens. 2d Cit. — What is this crowd coming ? 1st Cit. — They're chasing some one. 3d Cit— Who can it be ? Jd Cit. — A madman. 1st Cit. — Ain't that Antony ? Jd Cit. — As I live it is. He has escaped. 1st Cit. — They're trying to stop him. 3d Cit.— Let's help them. Jd Cit. — I'll not, he looks desperate. 1st Cit. — Nor I. He has a lions strength. (Enter Ant.) Ant. — Make way there, I'll kill the first man hinders me. (Rushes across the stage, knocks citizens down and exit.) (Scene closes.) (Scene 3.) Charles Office. (Erder Hero, Alice folloiving.) Alice.— I had quite a race to overtake you, So now I hope you'll listen to me. Hero. — Why shure I will listen, but I have important business bids me haste. Alice. — I doubt not but what I have to say Concerns your business. 'Tis of Antony I would speak. Hero. — What do you know of him ? Alice. — That his arrest was plotted for by those He thought were his best friends. Hero. — How plotted for ? Alice. — Charles lias some dislike for him, and he holds 47 What once were Leopole's honors, so they Plotted for his ruin. Hero. — How do you know all this ? Alice. — I overheard them propose an accident From the porch as Charles would pass. Hero, — You mean the falling of that cobble Was prearranged by Charles and Leopole ? Alice. — I do, and that Leopole pushed it purposely And not Antony by accident as you think. Hero. — If what you say be true 'twill recreate My hopes for future happiness, which I Thought gone forever. But Leopole is Antony's friend. Alice. — He but seems so. He was Mine once too. I tell you I did hear him Rail on fortune and on Antony for Robbing him of it, and because he came And went unnoticed, while Antony's Every move and look would bring forth cheers. Then he railed on me and cursed me so, I Swore revenge, and my chance soon came, for Charles Approached and told him of his grudge and how By downing Antony he'ld be revenged And Leopole would be again in favour. Hero. — And would you swear to this before them ? Alice. — Yes, and before God Almighty. Hero. — Then if Charles is to be found I'll Bring him here and Antony will be free. {Exit Hero, enter Charles.) Alice. — Now you important one, we'll see who'll Get the worst of this morning's quarrel. Char.— Why, what do you mean ? Alice. — What, why that she knows all that went between You and Leopole this morning. Char. — You told her of that plot ? Alice. — Cert, and I'm going to swear to it at The trial, if there is one. 18 •Char. — You degraded wretch, How far will your word go aside of ours ? Alice. — I don't know or care. They may not believe me. But I'll get them thinking. Char.— If you don't leave this town and in a hurry, I'll lock you up for what you are, not fit To mingle with respectable people. Alice, — Oh what I know does not amount to anything, yet you wish me to leave town. Guess not. I would sooner stay and bother you. And as for your having me arrested, ha ! I am in the business to long to think you can do it. Char. — Where is she going ? Alice. — To look for you and make you come down from your high perch. Char. — You've ruined me. Alice. — I hope so, but I never thought I was so wise, (knocking. \ Char. — Will you step in this room until I find out what i>- wanted ? Alice. — And have you lock me in ? Oh no ! Char. — Then here into the hall, but don't leave for I have some business with you. (Exit Alice.) Char. — Come in. [enter Officers.) What's wanted V Offic. — I have a summons for you to appear at the trial of Antony. Char. — I will not fail to be there. {Exit Officers, enter Leo.) You never arrived at a more fortunate time. Leo. — What's up. Char. — We're lost, unless by stratagem or By some precious gem you can win Alice To our favour. She has told Hero all She overheard this morning. Leo. — What ! I'll tear her heart out. Char. — No, no, I have a better plan. She is In love with you, make her think you return it. Leo.— But I turned her from me this morning. 49 Char. — Give some excuse for that, as, You were indisposed or so, and give her All the gold she wants, I know she'll yield. Leo. — Where is she ? Char. — In the hall. Now you retire and when she gets here, you happen in accidently as though you'ld not seen me, be very affectionate. {Exit Leo.) Char. — (Opening the door.) 'Tis now to late to refuse a risk on an obstacle. (Enter Alice.) Important business has come before me, which I must attend to immediately, you wait here, I'll not be long and I must see you. (Exit Char.) Alice. — I never thought I would be so lucky as to hold secrets valuable to rich men. (Enter Leo.) Leo. — Well, well, Alice, You're looking splendid, charming enough To tempt the coldest flesh. It seems an age Of seperation I've been through, but we'll Soon be again with fortune, and able To revel to our heart's content. Alice. — Who do you mean by we ? Leo. — Why, you and I, of course. You're not surprised I hope, that I know of your hankering For sport ? I guess you've not reformed. At ice. — Do you put this friendship on to mock me ? Leo. — Come, come, Alice, We've had too many rackets together To act like moralists. Alice. — I don't deny my business, but do you Know that I squealed what I o'erheard this morning ? Leo.— No ! To who ? Alice. — To Hero. Leo. — That will ruin all our sport. Why did you ? Alice.— You used me rough this morning. Leo. — And did you mind that V Have you never felt as though you hated Yourself ? That's the way I felt this morning, I did not know what I was saying. We've Got to fix this some way or loose our sport, For with Antony away I am the hero, And you know me when I have money. How did you fix it with Hero ? Alice. — I told her all I heard and she wants to Have me to swear to it at the trial. Leo. — You go to the trial And deny it all, deny you ever Spoke to her. You will never be sorry. Here's money for you to spend. See, I am But on the way to fortune and I have Money, I will have much more if you'll but Help me to it. Will you deny all you Told her for me ? Alice. — I will deny I ever saw her on a bed of bibles. Leo. — Good ! 'Tis not best we were seen together until all is over, they might suspect. Alice. — I'll go invest this money in silk stockings. Leo. — Well, good by, until this is over, then we will swim in wine. Alice. — Adieu. {Exit Alice.) Leo. — More dirty work, but that was easy. I say Charles. {Enter Char.) Char. — Well, how is she ? Leo. — Blot her out as an obstacle. Char. — How did you do it V Leo. — With little gold and big promises. But there is no time to spare, I must see the prosecutor and buy him to lengthen out this trial. {Exit Leo.) Char. — 'Tis not long till Antony will be no more, Then I shall have proud Hero at my feet. {Enter Hero.) Hero. — Prepare yourself For a mighty transformation. When last We met I was at your command, now bow Yourself in supplication. 5] Char. — This is indeed a transformation, but Why should I bow. I am no miscreant. Hero. — No, but a conspirator. Char.— Why, how is that ? Hero. — One who o'erheard you Plotting to down Antony has told me all. Char. — How absurd, that I should plot against one Who awaits a death sentence. Hero. — That death sentence When I have told them all I know, will be yours. Char. — Come, tell me all I am interested. Hero. — Leopole and yourself this morning did conspire To push that cobble from the porch, and then Charge Antony with treason. You see I Know it all and want you to settle Antony's freedom. {Appear Ant.) Char. — Go away, you rave. I hope your interlect Is not impaired by love. Hero. — I do love, I admit. Ant. aside. — Too true, she does love him and I've been duped, 'Tis from her own lips. Hero. — But think well before it is too late, think Of the disgrace 'twill cause you. Ant. aside. — She's stale to him and he'll not marry her. Hero. — The dishonor to your name, to be arrested, And have me prove you guilty. Char. — Have me arrested, if you will, tell them all you know, and see if a strumpet's word will outweigh mine. Leave me, I have no use for you. (Antony comes forward.) (Appear jailor and guards.) Ant. — And little do I blame you Charles, for this Discarding of a strumpet. Hero. — My Antony, and free, (goes to him, he pushes her away.) Ant. — Yes, Free from my prison bonds, and free from you, 52 Thank heaven. By your plot for my disposal You thought to ruin me, but you made me, For far better is an honorable death, Than life that's linked to your dishonor. Hero. — What does my Antony mean ? Ant. — You'll still use your dissembling gift, and play The innocent, T'wer better you were quiet, And not add lies to your dishonor. Hero. — As my Antony wishes. Ant. — No, no, not yours, just as you wished it, and Happy I to know 'tis so. And may you Have success in those desires in which I Hindered you. Come, officers, bring me back, I will stand a trial, yes, and if sentenced Die happy after what I have escaped. (Guards take Antony.) (Curtain.) 53 Act. IV. Scene, Court Room. (Enter Leo. and Prosecutor.) Leo. — You see, Antony will be tried this morning while Abra- ham is still in office, and he being interested in Antony, who is his daughter's intended husband, will hurry things through before Charleses term begins. Now what I want is, for you to do what you can to draw this trial into Charles'es term. Pros.— No doubt something will turn up through which I can gain a stay for you. Leo. — You being acquainted with the way of law would see a chance where others would'nt. Pros. — True, and for our friendship's sake, I will use it to your advantage, though I have nothing against this Antony. Leo.— That's what I want. Now come, we will drink together for luck. (Exit both, enter Hero.) Hero.— Am I the first one here ? Well, I should be, For I am more interested than all others, (kneels.) Heaven look with thy allseeing eye upon The unjust misery thy righteous subject Suffers, and with thy impartial mind convict The true transgressor. Give thy judgement to Thy officers below that they may punish The guilty, (rises.) Was ever woman in my plight ? No, no, Antony was not himself when he did spurn me. An unjust imprisonment and charged with Treachery by those he has considered His dearest friends is enough to upset The strongest mind. I have excused what he Has done no matter what the source, and I Will prove that I love him, though he would hate My corpse. Here will I await what is to come. (Hero sits down, enter court officers, citizens, Char., Leo.) Hero. — You are well met though not by accident For villians seek their kind for company. 54 Char. — I wish 3*011 knew the truth and had no faith In what you heard, then would you know us as friends Hero. — I sought no conversation with you, I Intended to insult you, but you are So hardened that I cannot. Char. — We will leave you until you are convinced, We wish you well. (They leave her.) Hero. — Heaven only knows Its object in distributing such natures Here amongst us. Wickedness on earth Must be decreed by heaven, or else Such minds would not exist. But, Where can this woman stay ? (Enter officer.* with Tom and Bill.) Tom. — Now to give the price of half a dozen good sprees to en- rich a rich city. Bill. — I'm sorrier than you are, for its all your fault. Tom. — Because I tried to stop you from making an ass of me its my fault. I'ld sooner be arrested, than showed up like that. (Enter Antony guarded.) Bill— Hallo ! What's he done V Tom. — He's not been fighting I'll wan-ant. for no one would tackle him. (As Antony passes Hero she comes to him.) Hero. — Antony, do you not know me ? Ant. — Take this woman from me or else release me That I may protect myself. (Guards push her away, she weeps, enter Marg.) Marg. to Hero. — Why not practice what you preach ? He is not sentenced yet and until he is We will not mourn. Hero. — He's worse than sentenced, he's mad. Marg. — So I thought when I last saw him. as He charged me with conspiring for his life, Then forgave me, claimed you were false, and Plotting to dispose of him, then broke his bonds Rushed through the court yard, passed the guards, and 55 Until now I have not seen him. I Will go speak to him. Hero. — I doubt he will know you, he did not me. And my presence seems to aggrivate him. Marg. — Perhaps 'tis best I keep away. Hero. — Come with me, They are not ready, and I will tell you Of the plot makes Antony prisoner. I heard it from a friend, and she must be found As our main witness. (Exit Hero and Marg.) Leo. — Can Hero have already told him what she heard Char. — Why no, He would not listen to her when they met. About the necktie and what else he heard From you worked to perfection. Now if Alice Will keep her word he will not know until It is too late. Leo. — She would do twice as much to win my smiles If I'll but give them. I will go sympathize With Antony. (Goes over to Antony.) Antony, I can bring But little consolation to you. Ant, — Leopole, old friend, I don't want any, The news you brought me in my cell Was sufficient. You little knew how I Was connected with that story, or perhaps You did, but respecting my dejection, Would not be bold by bringing more, but as A friend gave me a clue to proofs. Was it Not so, Leopole ? You're silent to respect My feelings, and Leopole, twice dear you Make your friendship by it. Through your clue I Am convinced my love was trifling with me, And now I welcome death as much as ever I cared to live. Leo. — Antony, stop or I Will wish for death myself. 56 Ant. — No, no, 3011 live, Live and be famous, live and be honored As an athlete, for the people must have one For their amusement and their idol, and Who is there but you that is worthy and Entitled to their praise ? And Leopole, All the medals and trophys I have won I've willed to you, they with my titles, when I am dead are yours with my best wishes That you honor them, and there is no one More confident than I am that you will. Leo. — Antony, you do not know me or you Would not say this, you'ld sooner curse me, if You knew my mind. Ant. — All ill feelings that have grown From my victory over you, I do forgive, For human nature makes us all jealous Of our fame. {Enter Abr., takes judge 's seat) Leo. — The court is about to open, I will leave you, and let heaven guide Our future for the best. (Leaves Antony.) Sheriff. — Oh yes, oh yes, this court is now opened, (etc. ; Abr.— Fellow officers, Though we had suspended business for this day. Set it apart for holiday and rejoicing As is a custom, An unforseen accident has compelled us To convene and give speedy redress to An offended citizen. We will hear Antony's case. Pros. — Your Honor, the cases of Tom Sawyer and Bill Johnson are first on the docket. Abr. — This court convened to-day especially for Antony's case. Pros. — There is no law that specifies certain prisoners shall be favoured either for relationship to its servants or for their social worth. (reads) Tom Sawyer and Bill Johnson,, breach of the peace. 57 Abr.— Tis not His relationship to the officers Of this court, nor his social standing makes His case special, but the seriousness Of the charge. Pros. — All crimes are serious, and he must await his turn, (reads) Tom Sawyer and Bill Johnson, breach of the peace. (They are brought forward.) Tom to Bill. — It's your fault we're in this pickle. Pros. — You are charged with breach of the peace. To this Charge what is your plea, guilty or not guilty ? Tom. — You see Bill there, was not good humored. Pros. — Are you guilty or not guilty ? Tom. — He buckeled me and I resisted. Pros. — I did not ask to hear your case. Are you guilty or not guilty ? raw.— Well, we faught. If you call that guilty, I am. Pros, to Bill. — You are charged with breach of the peace. To this charge what is your plea, guilty or not guilty ? Bill. — The same as him. If he's guilty, I am, I won't squeal and try to put it all on to him, I'll take my medicine like a man. Abr. — This day being a holiday we will excuse Your slight offense. You are discharged. (Tom and Bill start out.) Bill. — That's luck. If they had sent us up for thirty days, how could we have stood it without a drink ? I am as dry as though I had lived on herring for a week. Let's hurry to a saloon. Tom. — We will go drown our happiness as some would drown their sorrow. (Exit both.) Abr. — Any more ahead of Antony ? Pros. — Next comes Antony. tHe is brought forward.) You are charged with treason and attempt on the life of 58 Charles, one of the duke's officers. To this charge what is your plea, guilty or not guilty ? Ant.— Not guilty. Pros. — We will hear Charles. Char. — What I have to say you all know well, that While passing with the parade, where he was stationed, A large cobble hurled with murderous intent, Just missed its mission and scraped my knee, and 'Twas Antony that threw it. Pros. — What have you to say to that ? Char. — Such an accident happened. Char. — 'Twas no accident. He had some treacherous design No doubt against this government. Pros.— Can you prove otherwise ? Ant. — Can he prove that ? Pros. — What is your defense ? Ant. — No more than that I was on the porch So interested in the passing parade That I leaned my weight against a cobble And it fell, with results though not intents, Similar to those which he di scribed. Char. — Here are more witnesses. (Points to Leo. and guards, i Abr. — They know no more than 3*011 so we Have no need of them. Char. — I say he intended to murder me. {Enter Hero and Marg., hading Alice.) Abr. — You have not proven it. Hero. — Come quick or we'll be too late. Alice. —Why in such haste am I brought here V Char. — I say he is guilty of treason. Hero. — I say he is not and I can prove it. Char. — I say he is guilty and should pay the penalty of death. Abr. — She says she can prove he is not and conviction goes by proof alone. We will hear you. 59 Hero. — I say he {pointing to Char.) is guilty of forming a plot to ruin Antony. Here is a woman who o'erheard him, (to Alice). You tell them, you know it better. Alice, — What shall I say ? Hero. — What you told me this morning. Alice. — I told you nothing. Char. — She is the prisoner's lover, and this is an excuse for some advantage. Hero. — Why, you told me, that Charles and Leopole were plot- ing to dispose of Antony. Alice, — If ever I have set my eyes on you before It has slipped my memory. Leo. aside. — Tis wrong for me to be silent. Char. — This is some ruse to work your pity, She will weep directly. I motion for A death sentence as he is proven guilty. [Hero places herself beside Antony. | Hero. — If he is guilty, then so am 1 as An accomplice, for I know his mind and Know it to be as free from treachery As is God's above, (to Alice) And you know he is to be (2)oints to Charles) As full of treachery as is a snakes. Leo. aside. — I must speak. Char. — That's from the case. I motion for a sentence. Abr. — There has been nothing proven in this case, But I believe, This lady has some valuable proof Which she imparted to this other. Alice. — I know nothing. Leo. You lie you do, And so do I. Antony, I must speak. I envied you for defeating me but Never enough without his aid, (points to Char.) to do What I have done, He pricked me on with goiden promises till Till I conspired with him to ruin you, I pushed that cobble from the porch and Charles Is my accomplice. Ant. — How about the tie ? Leo. — Twas got by trickery, Hero is innocent and true to you. Ant. — Hero, will you forgive My fickle confidence in you ? Hero. — I would call nothing fickle That was done amid these trials. (bells ring twelve.) Char, to Abr. — I claim my office, your time's expired. Abr. — Antony, I find no proof of guilt against you, So you are discharged. Char. — Soldiers, he would rob me of my privilege, This office and this case to finish are mine, And I'll fight for what is mine. Ant. — And so will I. (Rushes out and snatches a sword, meets Charles, they fight, soldiers drive Leo. and Abr. back with bayonets. Antony is besting Charles.) Char. — Help me, soldiers. (Soldiers go to stab Ant. in the back, Hero steps between.) Hero. — Away, you cowards from his back ! (Soldiers stab her, she falls.) Ant. stabs Char., turns on soldiers and drives them back.) Hero. — Antony, I hope you think me true, Good by, good by, Antony, (dies.) (Antony turns and sees her. throws away his sword and kneels beside Hero.) Ant.— Hero! Hero! Dead! Heaven forgive me for this foul deed, For I know no sacrifice or penance With which I may redeem myself. (Soldiers stab him in the back, he offers his breast.) 61 Here, strike where my mortal source is, and end My living quick. Then if my earthly qualities Of endurance stay with my spirit, I will o'ertake her. (Soldiers stab hint in the breast.) Now my Hero, Your Antony will soon be with you. (Falls over on Hero and dies. ) {Curtain.) FISHING FOR FAME. Copyright, 1901. By F. Simon. FISHING FOR FAME R ow friends, in your conception place yourselves, In an uptown club, where wealth alone Has qualities for gaining membership, Where there's no virtue greater than extravagance, As all the furnishings do testify ; Such as the walls and ceilings decked with pictures, That strive with some success, to rival Old Italian art. With here and there Large beveled mirrors, of flawless glass, each The choice of some selected lot, resting On a wainscoating, of polished rosewood, That for the beauty of both its knots and grain, Is nature's masterpiece, Between the ceiling, And a tall man's hight, there hung a chandelier Of hand cut glass, upon which height, the artist Well fulfilled his task, of making it To outsparkle the stary heavens, And where artistic taste, would show their beauty To best advantage, there hung in loops, Rich draperies, on which, while in a spell, Some foreign gypsies hand was lead by heaven While she embroidered them ; and for genius They won the laurels her ambition sought, Crowning her the queen of needlework. 66 A masterhand had also, planned and made The couches and divans which were placed about. And seemed but as samples of the carpeting, That yielded at each step, as much as one Would call a rut upon the highway ; Those without experience, would have An awkward gate thereon. Such were the parlo rs. Then there was a billiard room, a card room, A smoking room and a hall for entertainments. Each as lavishly furnished in its kind. Tis in the smoking room our scene takes place. Here were assembled, a half a dozen, Young and wealthy sports, each with a tale or two, Of some marvelous or lucky catch, Of game fish, such as perhaps had happened, Twice in a hundred expeditions. But to the inexperienced listener, It was conveyed as though a common event. But one listener there ; a man of middle age ; Named Smith, of piqued disposition, With plenty of ambition and a craving To be famous, one who made it his delight, to slur and try To level with himself the lucky ones. One who envied those, who, as he claimed, Did make a boast, Of what they had by accident achieved And would have happened to a truant school boy Just the same. Then spoke he to the rest: Is this a quality? is this a gift ! To cast a baited line in the unseen deep And hane a hungry, brainless fish to chance Into the trap? If this is an achievement Worthy of this praise, why : Tom Fool's a hero, And I would have been, a thousand times, 67 And my achievements and my name, would be, A subject for short stories in our magazines, Or conversation at all social gatherings, So it shall hereafter, for, hear me boys ! You've bragged of capturing the wiry trout, The big mouthed pickerel and the strongest bass. When hunger bade him eat just as your line Was near. And for thus capturing a defenseless foe You pose as heros. Then so will I ! Who never craved for fame, but such as To the mighty comes. For : hear me boys ; When Sol has finished this day at the antipodes, And sinks himself behind their western limits, To peep with his familiar, golden fire Here o'er our eastern hilltops ; when he has To start to-morrow, pierced this heavy vail of night Enough to make a stream dissernible I'll have a line therein and try my skill, And as fishes feed but in the day time So, after a restless night of fasting Their appetit is the best. Now that's a point You all overlooked but it could not pass my insight And by the time you usually cast a line, When all the fish, have crammed their stomraachs With their natural food and have no appetite, I'll be returning, with all the hungry ones That were alert and let my squirming crawler Tempt them. I'll prove that I have not lived To forty-five without experience. That you knew not of. For, while you, Were huddled in a lump between warm sheets, Perhaps asleep, or. planing the conquest Of some fair maids heart, or perhaps, With bandaged brow and ices handy, To soothe a fever or calm an upset stomach, You were stealing from the morning, The few hours sleep you'id lost the night before At reveling. These were the hours I put To some atvantage. Many evenings, 68 Did I assort my tackle, for convienance And immediate use; and carve such bait To regular mouthfuls. As to each certain specie, that I sought, Was thought to be its favorite morsel. Thus was I employed. While you before a glass, were inspecting Or arranging, some latest style apparal. Each of us when finished would go our way. You to shine or be a blunder, At some social gathering, and I to bed ; To have my regular amount of sleep. So as to be up and on the way. Oft in time, to wish you the happy dreams Which I had had, and' you had lost, During the period of some entertainment, The charm of which decieved your nature, To a harmful wakefulness. And now with drowsy languishness, you slouch Toward home, while I, with brisk and wakeful stride, All ambition, make for some dock, or bringe, Or boat, or anything conveniant. To those selected spots where fishes feed 'tis keen strategem to always choose aright. An amature but once in ten times Strikes it lucky, therefore they condemn the sport. Gentlemen, not to boast, or try, to crown Myself with any fickle title, but All my expeditions were successes And sent me home o'eiburdened. The marketmen, Would miss my friends those days, for I Supplied them all. The only thing to mar those trips Was the lugging coming home. I always, Strained my sinews to the limit, and oft A young assistant, to whom I gave a coin The novice and the seadog hailed me As their champion, and dunned me for instructions. When with their knowledge all exhausted, They had no fish, to me they came for pointers, 69 Which always brought returns. To-morrow boys, To prove I am no boaster, I'll make a haul, Of this same genius fish ; the trout, And my wife's reputation as a cook, Is current conversation with her friends ; So I will give orders, she shall saison And prepare, in several ways, to tempt Your different tastes those selfsame fish, And you shall be my guest to morrow night. I will expect you all at eight. Do you agree ? After several toasts and wishes of success, Smith bade them all good night and hurried home To make his preparation and retire. Next morning he arose, while darkness still, Did shade all earthly object with its veil. Like a harmless barnyarn foul protect its young, So did the night protect the earth from light. By charging with its light absorbing body Upon each artificial ray ; as would Some mighty champion who strove to be supreme. 'Twas a royal battle between light And darkness. This did not interest our Smith, When he'd eaten a few chance morsals ; As there was no lingering for a spread, And gathered up his choicest bait and tackle, He started out, while night was still supreme Shielding everything from mortal gaze. As he trudged along that one hours walk, That took him to the brook, the gray morning light The front rank of the day did chance along, While charging night and all its powers To a full retreat. But to even matters,- At the antipodes, night was the master And had the weak flank of the day in like retreat. 70 So light did conquer darkness and darkness Conquered light, and so these two shall battle As long as the world goes round. This strife Did not worry Smith. 'Twas the chilly air, That pierced the skin, which his warm bed had left So tender, and the deep ruts and washouts Into which he stumbled. At last, just as O'r eastern mountain in a distant orb, The sun arose in firy majesty, Bold Smith beheld the brook, all crags and rocks, At which the stream recoiled, from vain attempts To ruin nature's masonry. Quoth he : It seems impossible, these rough and Narrow limits, can hide the famous trout. Why a lurking poliwog could be discerned, In any crevice, through this water The clearest that's by nature purified While buried, then distilled from mountain springs. But this meditation was porogued, by An approaching rustic, who was practicing The robins note, but stopped to praise, The quantity of trout within the brook. Thought Smith : a simple fellow, one who knows, Not more than what he hears from the neighbors Who wish to advertise this brook for gain. Down the stream he starts in search of A better fishing place. Sometimes in bogs, Up to his knees, when the chilly water Would crawl o'er the tops of his boots. Then falling over stumps or limbs, Or crawling through thick brush or briars, That tore his clothes. Still the streams confines Were such that Smith, crossed and recrossed it In a jump, when the opposite side Seemed best for progress. 71 After two hours, Off hopping and jumping, from bog to bog, Of climbing o'er stumps and crawling through brush Each extra twig or cobble, was a Monsterous obstacle to tired Smith. As though the elements did conspire with fate To crush our hero, in the western sky, Which at first as far as visible, had not A speck to taint it's own familiar azure, While the obstacles he met in his progress Down the brook absorbed all his attention, To save himself from broken limbs and bruises ; Then arose a rolling tumbling mass, Of blackest clouds, with swollen crest, as though, Proud of their mission of discomfort And destruction. But not until, they had Dimed the beauty of the snn, was Smith aware Of their approach, not until, its vaporous masses, Hindered Sol from throwing shadows Outlining different objects, did he look up And see the stealthily approaching clouds. Then, as so vexed at being discovered Before their foremost volley had reached the earth And caught it unprepared, the rolling thunder Seemed to crach the heavens and lightning Sputtered everyweere like limber serpants tongues That dart about and warn intruders There is danger. And as though bound to damage Everything that water would effect. The rain fell in such torrents, as though The ruffled atmosphere had churned the vaporous clouds To a solid mass of water. Such a deluge No record ever mentioned. Oh pity now Our hero, miles from any shelter, Chilled to the bone, sore from bruises, weary From trudging and climbing, with an hour 72 At least of that same traveling', in pouring raiti, Between himself and any kind of shelter. Still on he trudged for lingering would but Prolong his torture. Now and again He would curse himself for this fool's errand And vent a curse, on those who praised, this place As being good for Ashing. And by the time He had cut his passage to the road The rain had ceased, the clouds were sinking in the east And Sol once more shown down in all its splendor ; Without a single fish he started home. Where he arrived, with aching bones And rheumatism in every joint ; And a cold that brought on fears of something worse. But soon his wife, whose every worry was For his comfort, had bathed each single ache With balm, and with a women's gentle stroke, Rubbed through the pores as much as would absorbv Then tucked him safe in bed. There he was When those invited to the feast arrived. According to a humorous resolution, They all met at the club, then proceeding In a body, were ushered to our hero. Some of them he gently reprimanded For praising such a place to go for sport, And to all he took an oath : he would Never fish again ; So with many wishes For a speedy recovery they departed. FJD^\EnP>ERJft<3 THE wAinn. Cojryright, 1901, 1905. By F. Simon. 75 Y\/ onderful are the works of God. And most wonderful his commonest doings. Take man himself, where is the work more wonderful. Here upon this round globe he has placed us, With different dispositions and ambitions, To love or hate, to better or break, Other of his works, and all we must believe Is for some well meant end. Here he's placed us, As through adrift, out of his control. Here one man kills another for a coin. Another coveting his neighbors wealth. Here some competing for some other business. And countries waring for each others power. Thus on small, medium and larger scales All is discontent and strife. Not for what we need, for our wants are small, But for what we see and our eyes see much. And what alluring prospect lead us on. Dreams of wealth and power, for which we'd drudge, Our whole life long, then to awaken A common mortal. Tis so with men, concerns And countries, all striving for some more. There is one instance chronicled, In heaven and on earth, where, Nor power, nor wealth, nor any moit of gain Would crown the noble souls for risking, Gun or sabre wounds, pestilence and death. No grand conquest of arms or diplomacy Was the goal that put those statemen's genius To the test, that ranked them with the foremost 76 Of the world. No prospect of rich mines to sieze. Or fertile valleys to colonize, with The roaming populace. It was not ambition, it was not greed, That brought that noble ship (The Maine) to that Fatal anchorage before Havana. No, no, but a privilege, by agreement Twix the powers, that, (a neutral country Could assist its merchants and their interests, In a beleagured city.) Such was the mission of that noble ship, And thus, not mingling in the strife, Those brave souls all felt secure. And why not? Born and nourished in a country, that gives The men of hoDor charges of importance. Why should they even surmize? (That a country Like Spain, that boasts it was a power, In the ancient days of Home's supremacy. The first country to land, civilized Human being upon this wilderness. The foremost country to send its explorers, Colonizers and missionaries, To these countries, to teach the savages,) Would place in the hand of a savage, The lives of hundreds of human beings. For such was he, who touched that fatal spring That wrecked the Maine, and slaughtered its lusty Crew as the lay at anchor, guiltless and Unsuspecting among the Spanish mines. Perhaps he thought that these United States Had but one ship for their sea power, And in his feverish brain, planned himself Destined to control their noble navy. Tis a pity that such pevish brains Could merit power amongst a nation. But what must have been the awakening, When those patriots cried, Halt ! And the disturbed populace was content 77 For such an avalanche of punishment Was never dealt to a country before. Our noble hearted people, already disturbed, By the reports of Spanish cruelty To our weak neighbors, needed much less, than This wholesale murdering of their gallant seamen, To put them in the frenzy which it did, But Oh ! the wreck and ruin to Spain. The glory to our statesmenship, and to Our fighting power. The awakening Of the world to our untried resources. No sooner than the echoes of that Murderous discharge, were swallowed up in space, And the soaring fragments that were heaved aloft, One after another from their different heights, Had dropped and splashed to signal their return. Before the cloud of smoke, that like a spirit Rose from the wreck, had drifted out of sight. All was hustle and hurry for miles around. For this foul schock, had like an earthquake, Roused the slumbering people and brought them From their berths. To the public squares and streets Where with thumping hearts and trembling nerves, They met in crowds and questioned one another Expecting dreadful news. All were alert And fidgity, from living near the strife. Not so on board the Maine, where there was danger. Their each survivor knew his station And there he stayed. How could he leave? Seeing one brave lad salute the captain And report, (The ship was sinking.) Fear was a word this crew had merely heard of, And so in order keeping step, They left the sinking ship as they would have To a pleasure visit. 78 But with them came The tales of horror, that fanned to flames The slumbering courage in their countrymen's breast. Each succeeding message bringing detail, Was as fuel to this patriotic fire, And as they flashed o'er this broad land, told and retold In husky voices, they awoke a fury In our citizens, that naught but war could ease. Although a faction strove for peace, they could not Down the people's cry. for < War and vengeance. Remember the Maine ) So war was declared. A policy much discussed in foreign lands, That this country, whose army was no more, Then wandering bands patroling omong The Indian reservations, Should challenge the mighty arms of Spain. When this offend d nation began to muster, The volunteers in swarms besieged their barracks. All impatient to avenge, their countries wrong. Then were our gray haired veterans besieged, By lusty youths, who where anxious to receive, Their stowed up kwowledge of the drills,aud everywhere, In twos and threes, they would shoulder arms, front face And forward march to his stern command. This playing soldiers, fired these youthful spirits, Th seek the stern reality. From everywhere they came, from cities, towns And farms. So fast they came the camps looked like A hurly burly mob, that never could Be disciplined. But what a change in a few short months. To see this mob, marching and countermarching Or wheeling about in companies Or regiments, without a wave in their straight ranks. Twas a miracle done with assistance Of the god of war. 79 While at home the armies were preparing, Far off in Hong Kong harbor lay at anchor. The Pacific Squadron and its crews, Passing compliments with foreign friends. 'Mid feasting and rejoicing, a message From home told of tlie Spanish treachery To the Maine. A sister ship sent to the bottom, And hundreds of their comrades murdered While on a peaceful mission to assist their friends. Greeted with smiles and courtesy and oppointed, To an anchorage among the Spanish mines, Their noble hearted comrades, with minds To pure to conceive such mean advantages, Were easy victims to this trap. A threatening murmur among those men When they heard this news, soon changed to hurrahs And song as another message followed. This declaring war was to them more like An invitation to a feast than bloody combat. Now could these untried Sailors prove their worth. At Manilla Harbor not far off, In Spanish waters, guarded, by Spanish Forts and mines, there lay the enemy, safe And unassailable, to a timid crew. But to these men, there lurked a charm in effort. They sought not for a fallen foe, but one That could make them strain their wits for victory. So they set sail for this glorious trip. Like a picnic party, 'mid song and cheers. With light hearts they steered their fighting hull, Through the liquid furrows of the deep On to Manilla. Past the forts and mines Under the veil of night. With not a light To warn the drowsy Spanish sentinels, And have them spoil this bit of stratagem. Not a whisper disturbed the enemy Until morn, then at a signal 80 From the Olympiad mast, to open fire, A dozen cannons roared at once, and sent. Their iron missiles of death and destruction, At as many objects from which floated. The Spanish colors. To rouse them all, Inviting their full strenght in opposition. As they peered through portholes and cabin doors, From watchtowers or over battlements, Disturbed from heavy slumbers by this rude Intrusion, yawning and gapping, they beheld The stars and stripes, and heard from lusty throats, The battle cry (remember the Maine). Then in confusion, they started their defense, Tvvas to late. For the well directed shots, From the American ships, had torn large gaps In their hulls and riggings, and strewn their decks With silent dead and groaning wounded comrades. Upsetting order, banishing all control, Making their different moves conflicting. And thus confused they were a helpless foe, Live targets for those well directed shots, That quenched the life of more than a thousand men. And battered their ships till they all sank, With the cost of but one single life. Well was the Maine remembered at Manilla. Scattered o'er this broad land, in every state, Small groups of volunteers did their daily routine Impatient to amass and strike the foe. Here they received the news from Manilla, Praises in colored head lines, mere hints at first, But followed by the officialj records, Of a complete American victory. '81 The citizens, on hearing the news, Came to the camps and swelled their rousing cheer. Everywhere, in cities, towns or hamlets, They held meetings of appreciation. With bonfires and fireworks, or passing Resolutions of praises and thanks. This double victory, first, Of the Spanish fleet, then a country's praise, Would make dullest envious, much morn These firy youths, and nothing short of Leaps and bounds was headway toward meeting the foe. Caution was tedious and loudly condemned, Prom lowest to highest this spirit prevailed, The spirit that makes success. Now were the drills more early, The inspections more exact The soldiers More attentive. The officers more alert. All seeking some means of improvement. Not even the higher departments, Were free from this contagion, there to New life was infused, making them cheerful And confident and with mighty heaves from The highest to the lowest as a man Were the preparations hastened, to equip The needed force to embark for Cuba And whip those guilty of the Maine's sad fate Now was each drill hailed as the final. Each arrival of equipments, arms or Ammunition. The transports reported As waiting, while rumors for starting, named Every hour for a week. Each day in service is divided, With the exactness of the sun, naming Certain hours for leisure, and not to know Those hours now would mean to choose them as The hardest. Not a soul but was pawing His. effects, culling his choicest trinkets, Trading keepsakes or wistfully discarding 82 All over a stinted weight. Twas like a Busy day in some large industry, where, Each has his mind intent, on adding His little mite to the one grand whole. Far famed are the southern states for sunny days Twas on one of the finest they had ever had, That the army awoke, had mess and assembled. When they heard the command of : Forward March Loud and clear, th« i n with all their pride and pains Did these different companies move. Like so many solid masses, borne on Conveyances, so perfect was their maneuvering. Now was the harmony Between, the different branches well displayed. The army, a mighty host of boyant spirits, Proud of their might and anxious to display it. The navy appealing like so many Awkward, bulky hulls (but fitted with equipments. That controlled them on the seas, as smooth and gentle As caresses) and the fleet of transports A queer assortment of crafts, as though, one From every model were sent in competition. Three seperate forces each subject to An independent leader, straining every nerve To fulfill orders and anxious for success. Tis an old remark, (The sight of a lifetime) But in those southern ports there now took place, A sight not met with in a thousand lifetimes/ Steamers and barges riding on the tides. Tossing and tugging at their anchorage, Like unruly puppies imposing on A timid master. Palacial yachts And liners, striped of their beauty, to be Of better service, while just beyond them Guarding the harbour, rode the ironclads. With a bold and threatening confidence. The army coming aboard. To the novice 83 They appeared a mob, but known to themselves. By divisions and sub-divisions, down to The smallest group, and, as when a boulder That the weathers of ages upon ages Had loosened, in one unbroken mass, bounds andre bounds To the valley below and leaves the mount unmoved. Thus did each company at a call, Leave the ranks to be ushered to their berths. This was a sight that thrilled the blood, and put abloom On the pale cheeks of many a sickly youth Who had been rejected. When all were aboard, prepared for every possible hitch That forethought could invent; What a din was raised. Steam whisles blowing to every pitch, Druming and fifing and bands a playing, The people shouting and waving adieus, Boys with their noisiest toys and trinkets; The tin can brigade; that's cursed and snailed at By the nervous, were now the heros This was the scene as the army left for Cuba. Such a fearless and careless group, Had ne'r before taken passage. There they were In those frail hulls ; frail compaired to men or war, Steering direct to the enemy's stronghold, With it's danger of traps, as mines in the seas, Masked batterys along shore, or by chance To meet the enemy's fleet. Neither in their looks or actions was there A hint of fear, fear for dangers to come. Amusement or excitement was their object. And where two boats, nose to nose, were having A friendly encounter of speed, twould draw A crowd that gave their judgement, by derisively Jeering the looser, though the margin were but a foot. Groups collected at every upstart. As a song or a dance or a trial 84 Of skill or endurance. Thus with no thought Of their safety, but relying on those In command did they sail this venturesome voyage- Not an incident with enough importance, To be known beyond the office, marred The trip up to landing. Then came their need Of cleverness. For every harbour, every inlet, Where it was possible to laud was well defended. Allthough not for warned, more than by forethought. They arrived forearmed, knowing the enemy To be alert for any mode of attack Undaunted by opposition they went ahead Straining with recklessness the bounds of safety. Peering incivilly into the enemy's affairs. Searching the shore above and below For a place to force a landing in spite of The enemy's advantage. Eager to act and confident, they soon Made a choice, and in counsel determed their course. With wavering signals was each ship instructed. When all were ready up went the signal (Move as ordered) and as when a herd Of timid sheep, startled while grazeing Scatter aimlessly, so the ships, some up, Some down, baffling the ancious foe Drawing them from here to there and back again, By assembling at different places, Feigning to land, far from where they intended. When their ruse had succeeded, selected leaders At a signal, with ships equiped and crews Instructed, against all foreseen obstacles, Boldly charged the coveted landing. Twas no modern city with docks and piers For convienance, but to shallow water Then swimming or wading to shore, while some, Skilled marksmen, overawed the weak and baffeled garri- With a firing so accurate, that (son 85 When a shot missed, twas by a margin so small, When whistling by its intended victim, Tw,ould make him dodge and try to avoid, The bullet that had passed him by a rod. By surmounting such obstacles, they gained A foothold, the object of this bold stroke. Though what was done so far was much, twas but The beginning. Twas as wnen a hungry lion, Spies a straggling wolf and with one bound, secures That dainty morsel. Then a dioing yelp Brings round the pack, changing the lions position, From easy master to the defensive. Then are his qualities called upon. Then does he deeds of death and carnage. As with one stroke of his mighty paw Snapping the spine of one that had ventured, Within the bounds of his reach, or with his Massive jaws, crushing a skull to pulp Unmindful of their struggles and howling Then tos»ing them aside, intent upon The next until he has downed all opposition To his feast. 'T is from such victories as these He is known as king of beasts. As with the lion, So was it with the Americans now. Through their own cunning they had tricked the enemy, To expose a certain landing, then taken Possession in it's weakness, thus robbing The enemy of half it's power ; and As they realized this staggering blow, Chagrined and furious, they arrayed themselves In opposition; changing the American's • Position, from easy masters to the defensive. This put their fighting qualities to the test. And as the lion they enacted, Deeds of bravery, skill and cunning. Crowing all with a victory. As was natural for a time, all was Topsy turvy. Food, arms and equipments 86 All in a heap, men and companys Scattering aimlessly. But the hustling And ambitious spirits, prevailing among These men soon brought this chaos into order As smooth as a model household the pride Of a loving wife. But war was just beyond. War with all it's horrors, it's noise and confusion, It's wounds and amputations, its fevers And death. Of all the afflictions borne by This earth inhabitants, war is the worst. Plagues und famines, cyclones and eruptions, Are beyond control but war is of mans Own making. Men with reason, God's noblest work, Man who in pity, would sunder two fighting curs Yet they themselves, trained and practiced, in The surest way of killing one another. Or win praises and honor for planning The move or weapen that will do the most harm. Nations have their rise and fall as well as men. And as they rise they're confident and strong And opposition to their onward march, Is but a spur to glory, but past the climax And declining, all is blunders and weakness. So was it now with Spain. Her glories fading, Her power loosing hold, opposed by a Kising nation with dash and confidence Before which they wilted, steadily retreating To their stronghold, where, without a siege, almost Without a strugle tney surrendered, Leaving the Americans in control. Thus far, the glories Attained in^the struggle for Cuba, went To the armies, now come the navies for Their share. The government in Spain, knowing Their armies plight in Cuba, sent a squadron 87 To their aid. Now be it luck or destiny Or what it will, but the Spanish admiral Through his own cleverness was defeated. For clever it surely was, to trick The American patrol, and gain The harbour where their armies lay. But twas His downfall. The American army Controling on land and the powerful Ships before the harbour, had so cornered The Spanish fleet, the best they could wish for Was to escape. Thus they stood, day succeeded day without A suspicious move. The trapped ones, anciously Expecting a glimmer of hope, wishing Some miracle, would, if only for The shortest spell, confuse the guard before The harbour, their only road to liberty. But no, their vigilance to be free was No more thorough, than was their guards to capture Things seemed at a standstill, but only seemed. (them The army was preparing to harrass The imprisoned fleet, cautiously advancing, From mound to mound, becoming so threatening, That to remain meant sure distruction, while In flight there seemed a glimmer of hope. But never did a hungry beast, couch and wait More patiently for it's favorite morsel, Than did the American guard before The harbour. Not a speck, or a ripple, Within these bounds escaped their notice So diligent was the guard. The strict routine with the unchanging a;ene Was tiring the patients of these brave men, Used to changes, to seeing the world. When one bright morning, a cry from the watch. Ship Ahoy ! In the harbor there. They're coming out ! Like a magic wand in fairie tales, Turned these men into fighting demons. 88 Now all was hustle and expectation. Surmising the plans of the enemy. As also the best means to oppose them. Straight at them came the Spanish fleet, as though To ram, to charge their bulky hulls head on, To test their beams and armour and leave the honors To the shipright, or, perhaps to mingle Hull to hull in deadly combat and win Or lose decide supremacy then and there. But no ! They steer to starboard, thus revealing, Their plans was to escape if possible. With a base on which to plan their battle, The tension on these men relaxed, the tension, Caused by doubt and anxiety. The doubt The whole worlds in, of what good or ill may Befal us this next instant, and the anxiety To meet it succesfully. The signals Waved for battle and from the inerry way These tars, heaved at a chain or a rope, To hasten the start, bespoke no danger In the coming conflict although they knew It meant: win or die I With a whirling and churning in the rear, Out shot these ponderous hulls ; slowly at first, But gaining every minute. Straight at the foe, In a threatening way. Like some mighty champion, Who, while dallying with an easy opponent, Keceives a chafning blow, then straight his honor pric- He falls to like one inspired. (ked, How the fires were fed and nursed, As the orders came below : to crowd on steam. Until at every turn of the wheel, It seemed the joints would sunder. Now and then, A deafening boom from a heavy gun ; 8'9 To try the distance as they drew nearer, Would bring all eyes towards the foe, to know, Did it hit or splash before or beyond them. The first splash beyond the foe, was the signal, To open fire; Promptly obeyed almost By every gun at once. From the turrets, The decks and it seemed from every loophole, Streaks of fire and clouds of smoke shot out, Laden with iron missiles, of death and Destruction. While the force that sent them on Their journey, left a recoil, that it «eemed, No bolts or mortise eouldSwithstand. Both fleets were now sailing at topmost speed. Steadily firing. The Spanish, more to €heck the Americans, while the Americans Were intent on winning. Thus on they fought. Sometimes in a lull, taking careful aim With a mighty gun, and firing singly, So but little smoke would hinder watching It's effect Then firing broadsides, volley After volley, while for smoke, nothing was Dissernable across the ship. Still they fired. One would think at random. Then another lull. And as they emerged from the vail of smoke And peered across the water, from a ship Just opposite, a cloud of smoke rose heavenward And flying fragments filled the air. She's wounded ! was the cry, as she, keeling, Was steering for shallow water with her colors Slowly coming down. The good, the migthy, those worthy Of supremacy, be it one person, A group or a multitude ; are as gentle, As lovable and as sympathetic, As they are strong, and although while battling For a just cause, they will punish with all Their might, when the battle is over they will 90 Minister to the fallen with the self same ardor;. Such were the Americans. And where The enemy's signal meant distress, they Lay by, to aid and comfort them as friends. Here was an event. These bitter enemies Of an hour ago, now anxious for Each others comfort. While yet in sight, Friends of both were battling in bitterest Enmity. The Spaniards fought desperately, but their shots Went wide of the hulls intend, ^dropping Harmlessly into the sea. While the Americans, Almost unharmed themselves, had crippled a ship, Growing bolder, and drawing nearer, until Every shot seemed to rip it's self, into A Spanish hull. The little spark of hope The Spaniards had, that chance or luck might aid them Was growing dim, and gloomy were their spirits. As the Americans, flushed with confidence, Bore down upon them, ripping aud tearing Their hulls to pieces, until, one after another, They all surrendered, crippled and helpless. Thus ended the battle, made so vicious By the men in remembrance of their comrades, The victims of the Maine. Jol^pauljoi^' Copyright, 1906. By F. Simon. 93 JOHN PAUL JONES. ' ' Man the stoutest, swiftest ship that 's England 's And sink that treacherous pirate that robs its commerce. Thus spoke the King of England to his admiral. The care and the interest taken to fill This command, none but the King himself could arouse Though muffled censure doubted the wisdom Of opposing the pride of England 's navy To a lonely pirate boat; forward with The King's command, downed all dissension; Glorious and mighty appeared their ships, Moored within sight of admiring friends. Who in their visions saw the Eichard, A humble captive trailing behind, or, A torn and battered wreck totally helpless On the seas, being tossed at random For a while, then drawn below, ship, crew and all Entombed in a watery sepulchre. While their proud ship strutted o 'er the sea, Like a winning fowl that, jealous of its honor, Starts at each kick as though it were a challenge. That a good start is not always followed By a good finish was well proven In the present case, for never was an Undertaking launched with brighter prospects. Joy and confidence shone in every face. 'Twas a general gala day, as though 94 This undertaking was some pre-arranged Affair that must end to their liking. Now look we to this so-called pirate. From America he hailed, America; A poor and struggling infant country. Struggling defiantly against the oppression Of a tyrannical parent. 'Twiis a struggle for rights and liberty That belong to all civilized people. 'Tw.°<5 not a war for glory, conquest nor For honor. }}ut for each one's good, where each Made the cause his own, seeking commissions And enlistments, determined to spend His little energy against the foe, And willing, if need be, his life. One of these was our hero, John Paul Tones. Tones was a sailor all his life. A sailor In that age of dangerous voyages, Before man knew of the power in steam, When captains depended on the tides and wind That drove them back and forth. When squalls and tempests Oft o 'ercame the cleverest seamanship And drove their ship to ruin. In an age When sailors were noted for skill and daring, He was famous. His country was at war with mighty England, And as when a mother wolf to shield her young Braves the intruding lion, by snapping And snarling and dodging her light and speedy self About the bulky enemy, to keep him From the prize the while she summons help, So was his country. Weak but determined, Hampering the enemy for delay. 95 Convincing its slumbering patriots Of their power and rousing the timid From their awe of England 's boasts. 'Twas at the first call for aid that our hero Left his flourishing enterprises, To enlist with his penniless country. Penniless was his country indeed, yet rich; Eich with such patriotic souls as his. Men that are cautious until confident, But when roused each equal to ten such Reckless, boasting hirelings as their opponents. So anxious were these people for their freedom, So set on having it, even if war Must beget it, that, as their messengers Rode on, spreading the news, in every group Where it was delivered there were many, Far from home marching to the front. From the north, south, east and the west they came, Singly, in couples, in groups, and in crowds. Willing fighters came in plenty, but Their country was too poor to furnish them. They had a purpose and had come determined. Their country's poverty did not wilt their spirits. They found a way: friends and acquaintances Were dunned for funds. To gray-haired daddies, Now retired, enjoying at ease the shrewd Investments of their life of toil, Was the cause advanced, and with such zeal Were its prospects if successful praised, that One and all risked to the limit of his store. When these collections were alloted, still They were short, for war is costly and many Were unprovided. y<; Among those idle But not dismayed was our hero, John Paul Jones. And as the prospects for employment Were very slim at home he sailed for France. France already had done much to aid This struggling nation, but not one Promising plan did they refuse. So when Our hero, whose fame for skill and daring Was already known in France, proposed himself To hamper England 's commerce, funds were soon pledged To aid him. The road to great achievements is not Plain sailing, 'tis full of obstacles and Envious opposition, but they really Are the tests that prove your title. Some tests now happened in our hero 's lot. Being heralded as a mighty man, Aided financially by confiding friends, He must make good his title. Ships were scarce. It was a problem to equip himself. The Ranger, a sailing vessel, on which He had crossed to France, was refitted for A cruise. With this and a few smaller ships, He risked encountering England 's men-of-war. His officers were all Americans, While his crews were from a dozen countries. But, a successful leader's spirit is Contagious, regardless of creed or country. So these men, swayed by our hero, United to his purpose as a man, Sailed with him to oppose his enemy. Direct for England's coast they sailed, except A few abouts, in which they overhauled Some minor prizes. Afid with a boldness That showed contempt for England's guard, they went ashore 97 And carried off the Earl of Shelkirk's plate (This they afterwards returned). Cruising further They encountered the Drake, an English frigate Of equal size. This they made a prize of And proudly sailed for port. That humbling England pleased the French, was Well approved on reaching port by the joy And satisfaction that beamed on every Countenance. Hurrahs and welcome greeted Their every appearance. Fetes and treats Were offered in abundance as we! 1 as Offers of service. From the stock of choice positions offered To our hero, he chose the command of The Indian l planned to be a most thorough Man-of-war with the most modern engines Of destruction. But many months were needed To complete it. Meanwhile he lived at ease, The petted hero of the French, the guest Of honor at receptions and the idol Of the ladies. While thus wasting many months in idleness, Allured by fickle fortune to await His promised honors, his country, by its Aggressive tactics, had earned for itself An alliance with France. England's objection Was all in vain. France had too long smothered The embers of its hatred for England To slight this opportunity to strike Its bitterest foe. To be prepared for the results to come From the breach thus made, their promised honor To our hero was recalled and the Indian Was transferred to strengthen their favorite Admiral's fleet. 98 Once again was the path of our hero 's Great achievements apparently checked. But not for long. Eegretting the loss Of these months of idleness, stung to the quick By the late disappointment, his genius spirit Rose to its height and from the barrenest prospects He mustered a fleet that today is world renowned. Money was pledged in plenty by faithful friends. But ships were scarce and all their anxious search Procured was five. Of these an Indiaman Served as flagship, being christened: Bonhomme Richard; The Alliance, in command of Landais, The Pallas and two smaller vessels Completed the fleet. Many of their friends and sympathizers Lined the wharf where the fleet was assembled. Eagerly they lent a hand to hoist The stores aboard or fetched lumber and nails To where the shipwright worked at strengthening Some weakness in the hulls. If a sailor Ventured on an errand he was quickly hailed And questioned, praised and followed, every remark, Every act, every expression from the crowd, Was in that spirit that kindles one 's ambition To dare for such approval to the verge Of recklessness. Such was the popular Spirit towards those men delivered in person At the wharf and signaled to them as they sailed. Long beyond the range of the naked eye, Through powerful glasses, were they still seen To be signaling. Sailing onward o 'er the mighty Atlantic, Nothing but water every way they looked, With a watchful lookout scanning the horizon 9P For a sail — perhaps an enemy More powerful than themselves, watching in return, And as each discerns the flag, close in for battle. Then and there on that pitiless deep, That could straight down more than ten times span Their tallest mast, with the most powerful Engines of destruction known, attempt Each other's surrender. Perhaps until One with an ugly wound that lets in water, Can be seen to slowly settle, then keel And dive below, the water closing o 'er it Whirls and bubbles till the next wave blots out All trace of ship or where it sank. Such were The chances these men took, surely nothing For the timid. Providence favored our hero. To be defeated was not his destiny. His command was endowed with a charm That o "erawed his opponents and led him To glories and honor. The many captures He made, with such amazing boldness, The speed and skill of his maneuvering Made the reports to England have him In several places at once. To mention John Paul Jones to an Englishman was like Conjuring devils. He could sail ai will In English waters and maul their commerce To his liking, for it seemed no fighting ship Dare meet him. Shame and ridicule rankled England 's pride To be thus boldly defied, and the harm They had suffered, from a source they were wont To sneer at. Incentives were now offered To the captain that would make our hero captive. ICO The mischance of encountering our hero Fell to the Serapis. Far out at cea They met for this world-famed struggle. Both with The selfsame purpose, to crush the enemy; For their countries were at war and they both Were loyal, determined his was right. From two specks on opposite horizons, Eagerly they watched each other, drawing closer, Until, as though by magic at a click, They recognized that they were enemies. Then, like two vicious beasts of equal strength, Who, while seeking prey do spy each other And in jealous fury rush to combat, Thus did these two fleets. At first the rules of battle were observed By firing and maneuvering just within range. And proud were the friends of both who beheld Their skillful seamanship. The most brilliant charge Of either was with such skill eluded That little harm was done. This was not to Their liking. After each miss or sally They drew closer, to make more sure to hit Each other, until they finally could hit A certain part. How they then fought, their decks bestrewn with dead And wounded, 'mid a stangled mass of ropes And beams. Their railings shot to pieces By the firing that raked their decks. Their sails Were a mass of rents, while some were useless. Still they fought as furious as at first. Each was confident he was the stronger; They were closing in, each to sink the other And end the struggle quick or brave him To surrender. The sun for many hours A witness of this fray, now sank from sight 101 On its daily western route and twilight Closed them in. Still they fought. So elose were they No shot was thrown away. Both hulls were pierced Almost at every foot. Tangled ropes and chains Were dangling loosely. The ornaments That once adorned the bow hung broken And twisted on a single bolt. One-half the guns of either were crippled. Men in relays worked at the pumps, A very dangerous post, so much exposed, But simply a surer death to leave them. Darkness had succeeded twilight. Still they fought. Sometimes lost to one another, until Their firing told where they were. 'Twas while thus Lost like grouping round, they came alongside. Then the brave but misconceiving Pierson, When he demanded a surrender, Was informed by John Paul Jones (That he'd not yet commenced to fight.) Their boats were now lashed together. And man to man with sword and cutlass They hacked and stabbed away, each trying To board the other. Strong and rugged men Did face each other. With keen edged blades they fought. They would thrust and parry once or twice, Then hack away like mad, until exhausted Or weak from wounds, they would fall and crawl To shelter. No tender hands would dress their wounds. No gentle nurse would bathe their aching parts, Nor sooth their worried spirits. But helpless And unnoticed many lay, while their lifeblood Slowly oozed away. Neither side could long withstand this carnage. Nor was it intended that they should. Our hero, while mingling in the fiercest Of the fray, directing every move, had 102 Trained his guns to sweep the enemy r s decks, Driving them below for shelter. Then from the rigging throwing hand grenades Among them, threatening their magazine. Completed the victory for our hero. Being now cornered, so hopelessly trapped That even a sally for delay meant Plunging to sure death, the brave and hardy Piersons now surrendered that not one life Should wantonly be lost. So close had the battle been, that for a time Some of the English officers, thought They were the victors. Through this long and vicious struggle Their comrade ships stood off, their crews and officers Awed by its awful grandeur, were helpless To assist. A few shots from the Alliance, It was proven, hit the Richard, for which Its commander was disgraced. The Pallas Captured the ship (Earl of Scarborough), One of Pierson 's command. The Richard was So badly damaged it sank the next day. Such were the victories of John Paul Jones, For which the English called him pirate. Copyright 1908 By F. P. Simon, Concord and Lexington. \X/ e've oft in schooldays seen an overfed bully Nag a smaller urchin to such desperation, That he turns and in his blind fury Thrashes his big tormenter. So did The minute men the English regulars At Concord. England and its American colonies Were at swords' points, braced for combat and simply Awaiting a pretext to commence. Each had long surmised a conflict and had Secretly prepared for it. The Colonists Had outgrown their dependence, but England Was loath to release its absolute sway. Successful opposition to former burdens Had made them confident. While to punish Its unruly offspring England added more, Until the sting of their contemptible sway Had made the Colonists desperate. To awe the Colonists to submission, A British fleet, filled with hauty regulars, Was anchored at Boston. Well did the Colonists know the General In command and his proud boast; of landing His seasoned veterans and subdueing Them by fright. Xot a minute while they lay at anchor, 106 But watchful sentinels in relays Observed their every move, expecting that Their pride and confidence would tempt them to Some exploit. Th Colonists, at intervals throughout Their settlement, had stations for foodstuffs And ammunition which they'd collected. Not that they looked for war, but as a guard Against the worst those troubled times might Dring. The British, knowing of these stations, thought 'Twould give them glory and prestige and quench The Colonists spunk, if they could slip out, Destroy their stores, and proudly return, to the Wonder and amazement of the people. Thus they planned. Pleased at the prospect, no thought Of fear, they made their prparations. Well was the forethought Of the Colonists rewarded, when, one night. Their sentinels, by signals pre-arranged, Informed the messengers: That the British Were disembarking. As swift as horse could travel They spread the news. "To arms, to arms!" they cried At every farmhouse and through the village. "The regulars are coming!" Thus for miles around They roused the people. Silently, the British disembarked. Cautioned against noises. Puffed with confidence, And anxious for adventure. Unmolested they marched on, seemingly Unobserved, for nothing else was stiring. Pleased they surely were, for in whisperings They were discussing, the astonishment Of the people on the morrow. 107 The distant tolling of bells Was their first interruption. This they thought strange. But took it for some freak observance. But as it increased, from the right, the left. From everywhere, it gave them some concern. Still, on they marched, hoping 'twas but their fancy. Vain hope, for with the tolling of bells Came the muster. Drumming and fifing everywhere. To real and systematic to be but fancy. The people knew their plans, and their jokes And laughter turned to chagrin and anger. For with all their contempt for the Colonists, They knew they had been outwitted. In silence and depressed they trudged along. Passing farmhouses that seemed deserted. But those within were busy. Their favorite muskets they were o'erhauling. Their constant companion, of which the owner Knew every whim and how to favor it To make it effective where he desired. Towards Lexington they marched unmolested. But the simple farmers along the route, Silently viewing their passing, was a Mighty power they foolishly were nagging To action. The minute men Had made Lexington a rendezvous. Here they assembled at muster, answered Roll call, drilled and schooled themselves in tactics. As much for pastime as for a purpose. They were a sort of club. The first opposition to the British Was this same club. Being suspicious of Their intentions, they had formed a system Of signals and messengers, to keep informed Of the goings-on and to summon 108 Their little band when danger threatened, Where they were on guard. On that fatal morning at the call to arms, About four score assembled. They rudely Observed the manual at arms, aud Humbly prayed to God for strength. Then awaited what was to come, determined To do their utmost, in defense of their Just rights. Messengers by several routes brought the news Of the British approach, convincing all That the stores at Concord were their object. These were hastily removed. Just as the morning's light was making Everything within range discernable, The regulars hove in sight. More, more they come, With their measured tread, these thousands of feet Acting in accord and so precise, Their helmet capped bodies swayed to each step Like one solid mass. Then their gaudy uniforms And mounted officers in spangles of gold. An awe-inspiring sight. What a contrast. These eighty odd plain farmers In homespuns, lined up to impede this host. Not a man faltered as the regulars approached, Hussaring for the king. They stood As though transposed, and so they were; but not For fear, not for themselves, but for their wives And families. They knew the consequences. They knew their countrymen's determination .And England's boasting confidence. Why should they not hesitate? Snearing and mocking, the regulars halted, Demanding that they disperse as rebels. 109 As Lhey lingered undecided, The command: To fire! and whistling bullets Roused them. Then their comrades, staggering And falling, proved they were in earnest. A few shots were returned, hut they soon retired From this unequal contest. Hussaring for the king, Proud of this victory; an easy, one That gave them confidence, but the first And only one on this eventful day; The regulars marched on, jokingly planning Conquests by fright, of scattering whole hordes Of timid Colonists, merely by feinting Or making a noise. The thrashing they were To receive was never suspected. From there to Concord they met no further Opposition. Weary from their long march, They lounged about. A detachment sent to Destroy the stores, found them removed. This shrewd Forethought of their simple opponents Vexed them so, they wantonly destroyed The miller's flour, private property. The countrymen were now well roused. Stung by The wanton murder of their friends; humbled By this bold intrusion, rage led them on. Not to make war on this formidable host, But the self -same impulse: To be there To aid their comrades in whatever They would attempt. To the south of Concord, The ground rose slightly, making an ideal spot To observe the British from a distance. The minute men were assembling there, Discussing the goings on. The regulars, 110 Foiled in their mission of destroying: stores. Were anxious for some action to equal Their disappointment, and willingly did A detachment advance to clear the hill. Gay and confident, they approached. But those Upon the hill stood firm, until they'd Trapped the regulars across a stream That would hinder their retreat; then they advanced. The regulars fired a volley to check them. True was their aim, for several were seen To stagger and fall, while others clasped their breasts,. And leaning heavily on a comrade, Were led away. But the rest. Instead of Quelching their ardor, it kindled to a Desperate fury their smoldering rage, And like reckless demons, regardless of Danger or death, they charged the British, Killing and wounding some, and pressing The others with such vigor, they fled To rejoin their comrades. Thus they met A reverse through the minute men's pluck. 'Twould have been folly for this small force To pursue, so they lingered at a distance, Observing the British lounging about, Telling stories or playing games, all unconcerned. No thought of danger, all occupied with pleasure, While waiting to return. Fortune's dealings with us mortals is all deceit. Take those regulars there, so much at ease, So unconcerned, so unsuspicious Of the deaths, the rout and shame that would humble Their haughty spirits in the next few hours. While deceiving fortune had lured them to expect A glorious revel. The most alluring spell, That has nothing but visions of ease and pleasure, Is but a, veil that hides the greatest pitfall. Ill At the command to fall in line, each sought His alloted place which discipline had Made a habit. A few interested groups, Delayed, to finish a story or a game, Then hurried to their places. Thus in the shortest time was this scattered bcdy, Arranged in systematic regularity And on their way returning. Of the minute men that were assembling In patriotic sympathy, a large part Came to Boston. Upon being informed Of the state of affairs and the invaders' Whereabouts, they hurried off to meet them. Concord being so remote from where they At first assembled, few of the minute men Had arrived near there, but they almost doubled Each succeding mile to Boston. The regulars, having rested and Being thoroughly confident their presence Had struck terror to all opposition, They started to return. For quite a distance They were not molested. The few scattered minute men Timidly observed them from a distance. Further on, in twos and threes they passed them. Not quite so timid. But a sally By a dozen regulars soon dispersed them. Further down the road, the groups were larger And more of them. They no longer ran From these feints by a handful of men, but fought them And drove them back. These successes gave them courage. They separated and drew nearer. With trees, stone walls and mounds as bulwarks. They crept within range and singling out a victim They seldom missed him. 'Twas getting serious With the regulars. They changed from dress parade 112 To studied tactics. Flanks were formed to guard Their left and right, containing many veteran?. These, iike the sallies for a time, Made the minute men more cautious. They moved away For safety, then kept risking more and more To fathom the power of this new arrangement. Both flanks were soon an easy target To these skilled marksmen. Protecting themselves Behind the natural defences Of a rugged country, each the general Of ais own safety, they soon upset The order and nice formation of this Martial force and forced them, humbling r .nd cowering, Into one big herd. Disorder spread among them. From end to end they soon resembled A confused mob, frightened beyond control, Desperately urging onward, in hopes That a little beyond there was relief From this merciless punishment. In vain The officers recalled the boast; that they Would subdue these simple countrymen by fright. Nor their pleadings, nor urging, nor their threats Had any effect. They were hopelessly Demoralized. As the regulars weakened, the minute men drew stronger, through new recruits. Each success Ma fie them more confident, and they would risk A little clcser. Selecting a tree Or a stone wall that had a better range, Or anything that would shield them From the random firing of the regulars. There they would go until they almost Could choose their victim. The plight of these boastful regulars Was getting pitiful. Their dead and wounded They abandoned where they fell, or let them seek 113 A grassy cot to give them comfort And ease their suffering until their spirits fled And left them food for vultures. Although the Colonists fought like merciless beasts, Twas against principle, not men, and as victors They sought the fallen and cheered and nursed them. The regulars were thrashed and driven Like submissive slaves into Lexington. Here the reinforcements they had summoned At the first sign of opposition, Had formed a hollow square for their protection. What a contrast between this surging mob And the trim and systematic heroes Of the morning. Hungry and thirsty, Lame and sore, gasping for breath from this fearful chase, They staggered or stumbled, were dragged or crawled, Into this friendly shelter, where they dropped, Exhausted and helpless. The relief from this assistance was a Godsend. But' twas not for long, for the Colonists, Having completely mastered the famous regulars. Were fired with such confidence, they began To recklessly outdare each other, To approach within positive range. Thus they cut short this period of rest And refreshment, forcing them to move for safety. With the chagrined submission of beaten champions. They made random efforts to uphold their prestige. Each one proved their weakness. Every charge Was towards safety and their ships. Unmindful of the rear, where the Colonists Did most harm, they kept surging forward. The thought, that the Colonists were their master, Was like a thorn pricking their proud conscience. 114 As a balm to allay this knawiDg rage : They murdered the old and feeble, the women And children. Destroyed much property By firing houses and barns. Damaging trees And fences, or anything of value. Destroying the labor of days and days In as many minutes. The Colonists Continued this terrible punishment All the way to Boston, while the regulars Continued their spiteful vengeance. Bui^er \\\\l Two Cooies Received MAR 18 1^09 CLASS CU X XXc. No. COPY "8. 1909. By F. P. Simon. Bunker Rill The inventions, discoveries, careers Or revolutions whose benefits were Most widespread and lasting, all grew From humble beginnings. So did The American Revolution. The imposing liberties that the British At Boston took with the colonists And their property, had caused thousands of Patriotic sympathizers to assemble Eager for any suggestion that would Aid them to gain redress. In sight of Boston was this host encamped. A mighty power they were if subject to A general purpose. But as they were They were a helpless force. In pairs and groups Without a leader, or companies with Separate leaders. All independent bodies. Though no one's, authority was supreme, Their interests and zeal were so strongly In accord, they naturally worked together. Some chosen companion, some natural leader, Lead each group or company. Among them Sturdy veterans of the Indian wars. To agree upon some action these assembled, And in counsel they advised each other; Swapped suggestions and argued the why or Why not, this, or that, was a good attack Or defence. Oft assenting to A fiery argument, just to keep peace. 118 When it was proposed, to occupy Bunker Hill, many favored the suggestion And they gave such effective reasons That all soon approved of the plan And agreed to do their utmost towards its success. To make sure the enemy would not learn Their plan, and interfere with its success They swore secrecy even to their inmost friends. They ordered A chosen number to meet at sunset They equipped them with pick and shovel and As darkness settled round them they marched forth Bidding their recruits to follow.. Where the following events take place A wide stretch of lowland fringed the harbour, Then rose in several hills. On one of these Their engineers had staked out a stronghold. There's where this fearless band was heading. Sentinels were stationed at intervals As a caution against surprises. Some Patroled the harbour bank, so close to the British ships moored there, they could plainly hear Their "All's Well, in the stillness of the night. .lust at midnight they began their task. O f digging tranches and building mounds. All through the night they worked, with a diligence That was superhuman. Not trying to Outdo each other, but each working To the limit of his endurance, Unmindful of the rest. .Vv iien the morning's light came creeping from the east, Slowly increasing the distance in which Things could be discerned, when it entered 119 The chambers of the slumbering toilers And roused them to renew life's toil and strife, It also disclosed to the British This stronghold built through the night. When the British watch beheld these mounds Of fresh loam and earth, and Ihe strange activity, He gave the alarm and roused his comrades From their peaceful slumbers. As they emerged From the hatchways and approached the railing, They were for a time at a loss Whether to accept this as in earnest Or a mere plaything. But the memory Of the colonists' spunk, on several Late occasions, made this appear more serious. They signalled to ther comrade ships So they could view this wonder. A few proud officers, snaered at treating Such a flimsy fort as an obstacle. But others from bitter experience Knew the metal of those within, and they Strongly upraided their rasher friends For considering the colonists, A timid mob that would lose heart And scatter, at any random show of force. Their wise counsel prevailed, 'twas decided With their cannon, to hinder the colonists' progress. While they prepared for a mighty attack. The British gunners had so long been inactive, They were getting listness and disinterested. The command to fire was just the thing to rouse them. Eagerly each attended to his part. Or assisted where 'twas needed, Anxious that his~ crew should in some way Outdo the others, in carrying out This order. All morning long they kept firing, There leing no return, 'twas like target practice. 120 A few well directed shots, that whistled O'er the colonists' head, or ploughed the ground near by, Sent them scattering at first, but when their leaders Mounted the works, and calmly directed Their labors while thus exposed, They held the British firing in contempt And made their poor marsmenship a theme for jokes. Now that they were discovered, and knowing The British would in some way or another Try to dislodge them, they worked the harder To strengthen their fort. It seemed their endurance Had no limit. They had toiled all night, And all through the morning, without sleep or rest Or food. Anxiously they waited, for relief Or refreshments, but all in vain. As the day Wore on and each returning messenger, Brought no more comfort than the first, their spirits drooped. And why not? 'Twould crush the staunchest loyalty, Wilt the stoutest heart, to think their friends, Their companions, should ignore their call for aid When informed of their desperate straits. Twas no wonder that many, disgusted At such treatment, boldly left the ranks, Asserting 'twas but a treacherous trap To deliver them to the enemy. The morning was a thing of the past And the afternoon was partly gone. But not a British soldier had left the ships. As the sun dial told the minutes toward evening, That meant, Sol was nearing to where he hides His light, the colonists' spirits rose, cheered By the thought of a night of rest, and of The aid from their friends, that would come in the dark- ness. Their hopes and prayers proved in vain, for, By mid-afternoon the British started 121 Disembarking and preparing to attack. 'Twas a mighty disappointment After that long delay that so much bouyed . Their spirits. But such was the will of heaven. A mighty roar of cannon from all the ships And shot striking and bounding everywhere, Was the first move in the British attack. All about the fort theiy trained their guns, Making it folly to be exposed. Then Unmolested, did the British with rafts Land their army. Th^y quickly formed for battle. A long line Of solid companies, two or more deep, In gaudy uniforms and polished arms And such perfect discipline, every move At their captains' command, of hands or feet, Or guns or body, was so smooth and uniform They appeared like one long unbroken streak. !n a short address, their general Praised their past performances, and urged them To repeat them. Making no allowance For the difference in their opponents. The honors that they boasted, were won from Hordes of uncivilized blacks, armed with spears And arrows, that were harmless in comparison With their guns. Where their greatest danger lay In treacherous massacres. Now their opponents were their equal, in Intelligence if not experience. The British general Ordered an attack, and he so belittled The colonists' powers, he chose to brave them 122 From the front, and they upon a hill, In itself a strong defense, then strengthened By the earthwprks. Oh, 'Twas costly conceit. 'Twas a memorable hour To these untried colonists, while the British Prepared their attack. Few breasts possessed their Normal beat, while in many the thumping Was so strong 'twas noticed by their neighbour. While the British prepared to attack The colonists prepared their defence. When placed as their leaders thought to best advantage They watched the enemy. The gauidly equipped, and formidable Regulars, were surely awe inspiring. Thus they effected the colonists. Under their magic spell they stood and stared Like fixtures. Except when catching their breath, Or, when forcing back the lump that seemed bound To stick in their throats. 'Twas not fear, Simply doubt and anxiety. Their leaders' encouragement, would rouse them From this state of awe, as 'they thus addressed them: Now, boys, be brave. Remember they are but men As we are, as sensitive to pain, as Liable to death. They wear no armour That's proof against your bullets. Take careful aim. Be confident men, for, come how they will They'll be exposed while we're protected. Don't be too anxious. Wait until they're close. Your strength lies in your skill so take no chances. When you can distinguish the whites of their eyes, Aim low and blaze away. Thus they encouraged The men and mingled with them, addressing Many by name, giving an encouraging Pat on the back, where they were more familiar, Or to some spokesman who told what they intended. 123 Twas a thrilling and an inspiring sight, Especially to those raw recruits, as They peeped o'er their battlements. The steady Roar of cannon from the many ships, A-whistling, from nothing, passing Over them like a streak, as a shot sped past. Some buried themselves in the eearth near by. When a dull thud told of the force that sent them there. While the shower of sand, that scattered over The colonists, was the only damage done. Then these many rafts towed back and forth With their martial freight. It took several trips To land each company. Then they would march To their allotted place in one long column. Full three thousand regulars were landed, To route the colonists from their new-made stronghold When all the companies were in their places In one long column, then came the final line-up. The command of "Attention!" was simply To rouse the first arrivals, who, while waiting For the rest had become absorbed in their Personal affairs. Everything was now ready for their advance. The firing ceased, that had kept the colonists Under cover. Then this long line of regulars Started towards them, as powerful, and As unconcerned of what was before them, As an ocean roller on some shallow beach. At first, lost in the vastness of its surroundings, But getting mightier and mightier as it approached. That the colonists, did not flee from fright, Proved that they were determined patriots. Very few of them, were not agitated, And itching to fire much too soon But their leaders made them wait. 124 Impatiently they fidgeted their guns. Now and then taking careful aim at some Conspicuous figure, then stopping short, Dismayed at wasting such a perfect range. But such was their confidence in their leaders, A few odd shots were fired, but one could tell From the mild way these stern, and determined Leaders rebuked the offenders, that they Were satisfied 'twas their ardour, Not obstinacy made them disobey. The hill that led to the colonists' fort Was a mighty obstacle to the British. Still they kept coming. The straightness of their column was soon ruffled. This gave them more concern, than the danger That was before them. On they come, as free from opposition, As on some showy exhibition drill. No banging of muskets or whistling bullets Hindered them. No cannon balls sped through their ranks. Killing and wounding them right and left. Not one of them was harmed. The colonists. Withheld their fire so long, the regulars Had some hope, they would find the fort deserted. But when they arrived at the chosen distance, And the colonists were ordered to fire. A steady discharge of musketry, Tore in among them and dropped them by the score. Unmercifully were they killed and maimed At this short range. Such a systematic And strong defence. Such terrible results To their solid ranks, was so different From what they had expected, it checked them In an instant. Now their officers, Stepped to the front and brandishing their swords They urged them on. Come! Come comrades! I hope 125 You are not phased by these few amateurs. Forward! Don't let this mob of countrymen Gloat over your defeat. What would they say At home, if they heard, this mighty army Of veterans fled from simple rustics? Come, come, let's make another effort men, And we'll scatter them like chaff. Thus they urged on their men, but 'twas in vain. The men were willing and confident, But knew it was a foolish risk, to face Such a murderous fire. Many a captain, Paid with his life or some ragged wound For his reckles confidence. So effective was the colonists' fire, They had the regulars completly rattled, And looking among themselves, they could not find A hopeful face to appeal to. In that whole line, every one seemed baffled. The colonists continued firing, Kept picking them off by the score. It seemed That every shot did damage of some sort From the slight flesh wound to the one that pierced Th? vital organs, and barely stayed Its mortal effect until the victim Conveyed to some comrade a message To loved ones at home. To be punished as those regulars were While they could do no damage in return. 'Twere wisdom to turn back. 'Twas pride alone Made them hesitate this long, which cost them Many comrades. A few. with pluck enough. To oppose this foolish risk, turned back. More and more follow until they all Sought safety, beyond the colonists' range. 126 Now did their captains vent their rage as follows: For shame, men, for shame. Where is your reputation now Where is your boasted courage? What will those friends In England say, who praised you as invincible? Could you hold up your heads in London streets While marching on some fete day? Or expect A place of honor? Men, men, think what you've done. Look back there. Don't the sight of your dead comrades Strew about affect you? That sight alone, Should rouse a reckless courage within you. Men, I know it does, so wel'll get in order And try again. Things were different with the colonists. When the regulars, turned and ran from their defence, It broke the spell of doubt, and anxiety. And as they awakened to their victory Over the famous British, they let loose Their wildest antics. They hugged each other, And waltzed a turn or two. They hurrahed and waved And jumped about, while many in their joy And new born confidence were eager for pursuit, And would have marred their victory but for Their leaders, who, both praised and checked them As follows: Boys, you acted nobly. So far, well done. But now, restrain yourselves. This victory is but temporary. It cannot be these hauty regulars Will quit so easily. Their pride will force them To a larger sacrifice, so let us Prepare for them and when they do come, Make every shot sure, as our powder Is getting low. Just beyond the range of the colonists' guns The scattered British, once more formed to charge them. As their officers both encouraged and Upbraided them, their downcast look, told of 127 Their humbled pride. Seriously, was The importance of victory, Urged upon them. Their cr^mtry's prestige, Its army's honor, and their own safety Were the arguments used, to bring forth Their greatest effort. Once more they were sent to face that firing That had robbed them of hundreds of their comrades. They dare not quit with the colonists Their masters, nor would they give them to boast That it had taxed thier wits to defeat them. 'Twas their desire to humble them. To scatter them like a fickle mob. Once more they approached those fatal earthworks. Steadily enough, and yet, their late experience Had them worried. Why wouldn't it? To be Such open targets to these skillful marksmen, Simply to satisfy their vanity, To uphold their pride. The regulars tried the same bold attack, While the colonists used the same defence, Of letting them come close. Their first victory Gave them confidence, so they waited and waited. Even closer than the first time, was this Formidable army, before a shot was fired. Then the whole length of the colonists line Their musketry blazed forth and the continued firing Picked the regulars off by the hundreds. Bravely aid they face this hail of bullets, But 'twas too much for human beings. All around them their comrades toppling over. The moaning of the wounded, as in their agony, They wiggled into positions, that would Ease ili3i.r pain. The groaning and gasping Of the dying, while their stretching and straining The last few breaths, told of their violent ending. The damage they sustained was something awful. 128 The suffering of their comrades was heart rending. These regulars were but human beings. Frail, like other people when their trials Had pased endurance. This they now had, So, once more they turned and fled for safety. Although the colonists, twice had checked, The regulars' attempt to storm their fort, And twice, had driven them pell-mell to safety. Still they lose, their ammunitions almost gone. With no sign of a further supply. There's barely two charges for every man Among them, and the regulars preparing For a third assault. Never was powder Considered more precious, or as cautiously Doled out that not a grain should be wasted. With each portion there went an earnest address About what it may do, towards giving them A victory. Once more the regulars start up that hill, Now thoroughly roused by this double smirch To their reputation. Roiled by the scornful Admision of their officers. That they Were ashamed to be their leaders. They were determined to hazard anything To win the day. Once more they arrive At that fatal distance, now recognized By their line of dead. Once more the colonists' Unering fire, rips through their ranks. More deadly Than before, as they made more sure of their few Remaining shots. Once more the regulars halt, And waver, and would have fled again, but, That deadly fire had ceased for want of powder. Now many of these green recruits threw stones, Which plainly told their plight. The trained veterans That the regulars were, quick did they spy This weakness, and with shouts of triumph, They rushed forward to charge the colonists' fort. 129 The regulars outnumbering the colonists Two or more to one soon scaled their earthworks. And in a hand to hand conflict soon drove Them from the fort. Thus ended the first real battle Of the American revolution, In which the colonists as an army Were in the humblest state, Both for organization and equipment. tfc'fc r \