LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. ?-R A^^^ %li' ©opijrJBf/t :^, Shelf iV:.s.^..n^^ Lt^3 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hannibal and Katharna A DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS LIEUT.-COLONEL J. C. FIFE-COOKSON •» AUTHOR OF 'with the armies of the BALKANS," " TIGER SHOOTING IN THE DOON AND ULWAR," ''a dream OF OTHER DAYS," ETC., ETC. Katharna '' That is a furnace fit to forge the blade !" — Act I. NEW YORK X^fwA»H>^-' I G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS '^ i.U f LONDON KEGAN PAUL. TRENCH, TRUBNER, & CO., Ltd 1893 T^ Tt\"^ ■c s'» COPYRIGHT, 1893 BY J. C. FIFE-COOKSON Entered at Stationers' Hall, Londo7i By J. C. Fife-Cookson Printed and Bound by rbe 1??nfcl?erbocF?er prcfis, Iftew l^oih G. P. Putnam's Sons PREFACE In offering the accompanying drama to the public, I desire to mention that although I have adhered to some of the principal facts of history, yet that I did not feel bound, or think it desirable, to be always trammelled by them. I may add that Katharna is doubly allegorical. J. C. FIFE-COOKSON. Lee Hall, Wark, North Tyne. CONTENTS PAGE Preface V Dramatis Persons ix Act I. Scene i . . . . I Yahwa's ** Song of the Oriole" 9 Act I. Scene 2 10 ,, 3 18 ,, 4 31 ,» 5 . 46 ,, 6 49 Act 11. Scene i 54 ,y 2 68 " 3 . 74 ,, 4 . 81 ., 5 . 84 Act III. Scene i . 90 ,, 2 . 94 ,, 3 • 95 ,, 4 • 99 .. 5 . 104 ,, 6 . loS vin CONTEXTS Act IV. Scene i ,, 2 M 3 >, 4 ,, 5 ,, 6 Act V. Scene i ,, 2 Yahwa's '* Song Act V. Scene 3 ,, 4 ,, 5 of the Cacred Bird ' PAGE 115 120 128 135 144 148 152 163 164 177 182 1S6 DRAMATIS PERSONS Hamilcar . Hannibal . Hasdrubal Mago . . Magdassan Cisco . . Maharbal Basilio . . Katharna. Alalia . . Hercta. . Hanno . . Malchus . Abdalonim muthumbal Yahwa . . SciPio . . Elissa . . sophonisba The famous Carthaginian General and Suffete. His Sons : all Carthaginian Generals. \ A Carthaginian General: Second-in-Command of I Hamilcar* s army in Spain. Chief of the Staff of HannibaV s armies. A General in command of HannibaV s Cavalry. A Nobleman of ancient Spain. ' His Daughters. Their Attendant. ] A Carthaginian Suffete: leader of the faction \ opposed to Hamilcar and his family. His confidential Agent. An Agent of Malchus. A Carthaginian Scribe. I Hamilcar* s Minstrel : afterwards in the service ' of Kings Sphax and Massinissa. The Roman General ^ sur named '''Africanus.'' \ Widow of a Carthaginian General, of the \ faction opposed to Hanno. Her young and beautiful Daughter. DRAMATIS PERSONS King Sphax . . ) Rival African Princes ruling maritime states to King Massinissa \ the West of Carthage. Parihu ^ Chief Officer of the Palace to King Sphax, and * ( afterguards to King Massinissa. The Hunchback \^ P^ter at the Court of King Sphax, and after- ( wards at that oj King Massinissa, The High Priest of Tupiter. AULUS . . ! Gavius '^ Roman Soldiers. Senator Sy Ambassadors^ Courtiers, Officers, Augurs, Magicians, Messengers, Soldiers, Civilians, Truftipeters, Insurgents, Slaves, 6^c. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA ACT I. Scene I. The Carthaginian camp in Spain during foot-races and games. The course traverses the front of the stage, and behind it stand crowds of soldiers looking on ; in the centre, among the spectators, is a tent, at the door of which a standard is planted. First Soldier. What distance do they go this time ? Second Soldier. A mile : And there they sally now around the bend, Their racing legs resembling wheels ! First Soldier. Hah ! hah ! A strange idea of yours, to run on wheels, As one might ride a horse ; but there they come. Who, think you, wins the race ? 2 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Second Soldier. The swiftest man : No demon sits astride upon his neck To hold him back and rob him of the prize ! ( The rufiners pass, amidst excited shouts from the croiud.) Well run ! well run ! Already now they start The second race : there falls the signal flag. {Enter Muthumbal. ITe is stotitish, panting from the heat, and holds his hel?net in -/lis hatid, while 7nopping his face with a handkerchief!) Well met, Muthumbal : Ao you run to-day? Muthumbal. Why, only as you see : 'tis very hot ! Second Soldier. Come, tell us now : how many Roman heads Were gathered after yester's skirmishing? Muthumbal [aside). He is inquisitive, and greatly lacks That keen respect which should be due to me ; I'll put him off wnth quips and tell nothing. Until the list is published in the camp ; {K?w7vingly.) Let us bamboozle the inquisitive ! {Aloud.) Well, answer then another question first : HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 3 Tell me how many Roman soldiers' helms Were emptied by it ? Second Soldier (aside). True, I am no scribe, And yet I'll show that I'm as sharp as he ! {Aloud.) Many a good Roman parted with his helm, But being dead had little want of it ; Although I know a man not far from here, Without a helmet, who has lost his head : And, being still alive, he needs them much. (MUTHUMBAL Moves uway muttering and putting on his helmet. The runners in the second race pass, amid cheers. Enter two Soldiers who ran in the second race^ and now dispute the prize ^ First Runner (angrily). Come to the judge and hear what justice says ! (^Addressing an Officer who is standing near the flag?) I pray Magdassan may decide our cause. ( The Officer enters the tent^ and returfis^ pre- ceded by Magdassan.) First Runner (to Magdassan). Most honoured Chief, he crossed me at the turn. Or I had won ! 4 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA SECOND Runner. My Lord, his words are false ; In fact, he slipped upon the scorched-up ground, And almost threw me down ! {To the First Runner.) Let's fight it out. Like men, to-morrow morning at the dawn ! Magdassan. Have patience both, nor idly waste good blood : Fight only with the foe, and then strive well. You say you are the fastest ? First Runner. Aye, my Lord. Magdassan. And you claim greater speed ? Second Runner. Yes, noble sir. Magdassan. Then it would be a boon to both of you To run again and better prove your worth. So I decide. This evening let it be. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 5 (Exeunt the Runners. A flourish of trumpets is heard, Magdassan co?itinues^ addressing the soldiers. ) My sons, our mighty leader will arrive, To join your sports, as he has shared your toils ; I need not ask that you should greet the Chief Most reverently : and now Hamilcar comes ! {JEnter Hamilcar, preceded by tru7npeters and an armed escort. He is attended by Hannibal, Hasdrubal, Gisco, Yahwa, &c. The soldiers bow the head as Hamilcar /^^i-^^j- them : they then remain erect and facing toward him. Hamilcar takes his place in front of the standard : the trum- peters and escort draw itp on his right ^ and the staff on his left. The trumpeters sou?id a flourish^ at the end of which the ■ whole concourse of soldiers salute Hamilcar ^^ bowing the head and bendi7ig the knee : he acknowledges the salute by extendiiig his right hand towards them, first to the right a?id then to the left j the staff then breaks up its ranks ^ the soldiers resume their occupations, the trumpeters and escort march to the back of the sce?ie, zvherc they re^nain drawn up, awaiting orders. Enter at one extremity of the scene, behind the lines of soldier-spectators, Basilic, leaning on a stick : next, on his further side, and slightly behind, conies Katharna, leading by the hand Alalia, who appears to shrink timidly back: Hannibal ob- serves the?n and approaches, then stops.) 6 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hannibal [aside). What beauty, youth, and innocence are here ! I will approach awhile to sun myself In their bright presence ; and indeed I feel There might be more to charm in Spain at peace Than I had fancied. [Addressing the Soldiers in front (^/Basilic.) Soldiers, clear a space For welcome visitors. ( The Soldiers obey, ) Basilic. I thank you, sir. What Cathaginian leader honours me. With courtesy to one so old and worn ? Hannibal. My name is Hannibal. May I inquire Your noble house of Spain ? Basilic. Alas, my Lord, Although my garb claims rank, my fortunes ebb ; Our lands and wealth were lost in civil wars. The curse of Spain. I own a long descent From the bold ruler of the Western coast. Who triumphed in Iberia's sacred cause Against invasions of the fiery Gaul, Despoiler of our land upon the East. My name's Basilic : at your service, sir. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 7 Hannibal. And I at yours, my Lord, with all my heart ! {He looks at Katharna, who lowei^s her eyes?) But pray excuse me for a moment, sir. (Hannibal returns to Hamilcar and addresses him}) Hannibal. Now there are easy opportunities To flatter noble Spain through one of rank, Basilio, who is present with his friends. Pray show him favour. Hamilcar. Certainly, my son : The chance may serve us well. I wish to learn The hopes and fears of Spaniards for the war. Conduct him hither presently. Hannibal. I will. (Hannibal retur7is to Basilic atid addresses him.) Hannibal. My father, sir, requests your company. Where you may best observe the soldiers' games ; I pray you follow where Hamilcar waits. 8 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA (Basilio, Katharna, and Alalia follow Hanni- bal /«? the standard^ where Hamilcar greets them most courteously^ and converses with Basilio ; while Hannibal talks with Katharna, who still holds Alalia's hand.) Hamilcar [to Basilio). My Lord, you are by right our host in Spain, And we your guests. Thrice welcome to my camp ! I hope you may return to visit me Whene'er you wish to treat of politics : Learning my latest news from Africa, Or favouring me with yours on home affairs : To pass a pleasant hour. Basilic. Accept my thanks : Your Excellency honours me indeed I Hamilcar. See, Yahwa, there's an oriole on the tree : Now tune your lay to match his carolling. (Yahwa steps forward, looks up at the bird, and strikes a few chords on his guitar : he then sings to its ac- cojnpaniment, smiling and playfully addressing the bird,) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Song of the Oriole. I. An oriole flutters on a bough, Singing in praise of the cherries : " They're not yet ripe, but are ripening now, Those lovely, luscious berries ! II. *' I fought through winter with the cold. Famine, rain, wind, and the thunder : But now I'm here, and my tale is told, My frame nigh riven asunder ! III. "The stormy season past, I've come Home to my haunts in the valley : Where warmly shines the reviving sun. And whispering zephyrs tarry. IV. " Here will I warble notes of love, Flute-like, resonant, and mellow ; Nest in the branch of a pine-wood grove, With a mate all black and yellow. 10 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA " Yes, Summer brings me back again, Over the waters from Zelies : Cherries are ripening fast in Spain, Those lovely, luscious berries ! VI. " So here I flutter on the bough. Chanting the charms of the cherries : They'll soon be ripe, and are ripening now, Those lovely, luscious berries ! " {Curtain.) Scene II. Basilio's Homestead, Enter Alalia and Hercta. Alalia. When did you hear this ? Hercta. Madam, only now : I chanced to meet a shepherd from the hill. Who said that as he reached the highest crest He saw the Romans move to cross the stream ; Long columns met and waded through the ford, HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA II While others in broad barges ferried o'er Where it was deep ; then opposite the isle Some hardy horsemen plunged into the waves, And gallantly attained the sandy wharf That lies midway : they rested there awhile, Then safely swam across the further arm. But as the shepherd hastened down again, Driving his flocks, as ordered, to the fold, Still other troops approached the crossing-points, While scattered on the further river-bank There streamed great toiling crowds upon the slopes ; Entering the thickest forests on the brows, Towards the rocky passes in the hills, As if to cross, or halt upon the range Within the woodlands. Alalia. Most important news : Those troops may now be on their way from Spain, To leave us once again in grateful peace ; And when they gain their homes in Italy, What joy must kindle in the anxious breasts Of wives and children for their safe return ! And Carthage will feel equal happiness At the home-coming of her well-loved sons. Hercta {hastily). But will they leave us too ? 12 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Alalia. Of course ! Why not ? Hercta {thoicghtftdly) , Only that they are gallant men indeed, And their protection gives security. Alalia. But when the danger has all passed away, What need for shield and weapons ? Hercta [coquettishly). None, 'tis true : Unless worn as an ornamental badge, To please the fancy in our leisure hours. Alalia. But women need no trophy of the kind ! Hercta {archly). There may be no necessity ; and yet Some prize it all the more for that. Alalia {smilifig). Indeed ? Well, Hercta, if the highly-tempered blade jMust now be stored in distant armouries, I trust its glitter may not draw you hence ; But rather, if it be of sterling worth. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 3 That you will stay and keep it by your side : I hope that all may prosper. Hercta {dubiously). Ah, madam ! 'Tis sad to part from such a faithful friend. Alalia. Who may he be ? Hercta {simply). Muthumbal is his name : A scribe on duty with the Punic host. Alalia {hesitating), I thought you said he was a warrior : Or from your words I might infer as much ? Hercta {pettishly). His heart beats high with martial energy, Yet somebody must do the writing part ! {A pause y during which Hercta /rets with evident annoyance^ Indeed, his post is most responsible : Your father says one scribe who wields a pen Can do more harm than fifty men with swords ! {Another sifnilar pause.) Besides, he ranks as captain of a troop ! {A si7nilar pause.) 14 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Alalia. What are his functions ? Hercta {proudly). Registering the heads Struck from the fallen foes throughout the war. Alalia {aside). Most barbarous work ! {Aloud,) How did you chance to meet ? Hercta {?taively). One day he passed when I was at the gate, And, pausing, asked most courteously of me The homestead's name, for note upon his maps : {A pause.) Since then he takes his evening walks this way. Alalia. Where can I view from some convenient point The Roman host, and verify the tale Told by the shepherd ? Hercta. Madam, follow me To where a recent clearing in the wood. Upon the steepest slopes below us here. Pierces the woven leafy curtain through : And there you can observe the Roman troops. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 5 Alalia. Lead on, good Hercta, I will follow you. {Exeunt.) Enter Hannibal and Katharna. Hannibal. Katharna, you control my happiness : So move your father most judiciously To gain his full consent, and without fail. Discreetly mention that I value high His noble blood, that tells of glorious deeds. Which ornament a country's history : And, tingling in his bold descendant's veins, Will give sure promise of success to come. So when we meet at midday I shall learn With how much favour he regards my suit. My heart is in your tender keeping, love. Katharna. Believe me, dear, no keen ambassador Had e'er a policy that touched him more. In his own tenderness and interests. Than ours moves me. {Exit Hannibal : then enter Basilic fro7n the housed Katharna. Dear father, I'll confess A secret known as yet to only two. t J 1 6 HAXXIBAL AND KATHARXA Basilio {laughing). *Twill soon be spread abroad by one of us ! This is my way of looking on the case : I hold a secret, as a sword, alone, Grasping the easy hilt to balance it, So I can turn the sabre as I will ; Another aiding me must seize the blade, And, the more pungent is the biting edge The louder will he howl the circumstance ; But if by chance to join us comes a third, Of needs he takes the point, which tickles him. Till, laughing, he discloses all he knows. Katharxa. It matters little whether it be told, If you approve. Basilic. 'Tis something serious ; I thought it was the purchase of a gown That was desired, and I was wished to pay : Or promised coming of some welcome guest ; But now I fancy it is something more. What is the kernel of the mystery On which you wish my judgment ? Katharna. It is this : During some little while, as you have seen, Lord Hannibal has sought my company ; 1 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1/ Until to-day he told me of his love, And prayed me quickly to prepare you, sir : As he proposed to wait upon you here, Seeking your sanction to our union. Basilic. Yet, how can Hannibal find time to wed Amidst campaigns of wild uncertainty. All seeming endless ? Katharna. Then, he bade me say : That from the latest information gained. The dawn of peace in Spain is close at hand. Basilic. To seal your happiness, I will consent To it. Katharna. I thank you, father, heartily. {She kisses /n??i.) And now I go to meet Lord Hannibal, Who will be full of joy to hear your words. (Basilic re-enters the house. Exit Katharna.) 1 8 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Scene III. A forest mar the Carthaginian camp in Spain. Enter Hamilcar and Hasdrubal. Hamilcar {proudly), I have ordained : to-morrow will be drawn, In battle order, all the forces ranged As far as eye can reach : a grand review In honour of our triumph o'er the foe, And the delivery of fair Spain at last. Then will I dedicate auspiciously My eldest son, the skilful Hannibal — The worthy offspring of a sire who first Has checked the arms of ever-conquering Rome — To sacrifice his life opposing her, And lead our troops to vanquish Italy : A boon I must forego through stress of years. At a stone altar in the centre, raised To mighty Baal-Hammon, shall he swear, With votive oaths, eternal hate of Rome, While I as priest will consecrate his vows. To you I grant a post of equal rank And vital import to our sovereignty : No less its honourable dangers loom, Although it is a stationary command : For rocky cliffs upon the battered coast Withstand far more of stormy buft'etings Than swiftly-moving barques that skim the waves. Your duty is to rule the rich and great HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 19 Sea-bordered province of Emporia, Which still is torn by fierce civil war, Since Spendius and Matho raised the bands — In parricidal strife against our power — Of mercenaries who had fought for us : Stirring the bile of seething discontent Amongst the native tribes, which rose in arms, And still rage in rebellion unsubdued, Threatening to join the ready foes within. And by invasion overrun your realm ; While the wild Eastern hordes which have engulfed The rich Egyptian valley of the Nile, With appetites aroused but unappeased, Prepare themselves beyond our territory To first assail us at your new command. Nor is its government less weighty work Than to lead on the force invading Rome, That might be vanquished without jeopardy To Carthage, which would rest secure at home ; But if Emporia, close beyond our walls. Successfully defied our utmost power. And gained her liberty through this revolt. Then far and near the subject states would rise. While vaunting Rome might play the deadly game That we aim at herself in Italy, And send invading hosts to Africa, Menacing Carthage on her native soil. Hasdrubal [inclhiing his head respectfully). Your wish, sir, rules both Hannibal and me. {^Exit Hamilcar.) 20 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA To-morrow is the day our father holds The mystic ceremony, which wull bind My brother's life, perhaps for evermore ; Such bonds would gall me little : for in heart I'm free to fight and wonder all my days ; But Hannibal, who loves so desperately. Longing for happiness, now Spain is saved, Could scarcely bear the torture of the blow. But then to balk Hamilcar, if resolved : {A pause,) {A pause.) {A pause,) Far sooner would I seize, with naked arms, A lioness in her accustomed cave. And drag her, roaring, from amongst her cubs ! {A pause.) I'll save him ! {A pause,) Though fate surely marked him out For open warfare, needing generalship More than the post our father gives to me. By breathing in his mind the art of war : Which makes him far excel, although a youth, Our captains most experienced in the field. His name is now a potent talisman That rouses soldiers to their utmost deed, Till valour and endurance win the day. {E7iter Hannibal.) Hasdrubal. O Hannibal ! I fear the news I bear Will grieve you much, though I must make it known : HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 21 Our father plans to send you on at once, The master of his hosts, to Italy. Hannibal. At once ! Hasdrubal. Yes, dedicated by a vow — To-morrow pledged before the gathered troops — To Moloch's constant service, till the day When Rome is conquered, Italy subdued. Hannibal. Alas ! the knell that sounds the certain doom Of all my earthly happiness, which seemed Visions too bright for stern reality ! I felt as one who, dreaming, grasps a prize. Yet, being partly conscious that he sleeps, Dreads the dull hour when he must wake again, And it will fade, cheating his eager view ; Though treasured as a soothing memory, A sweet remembrance joined with deep regret. Indelible for ever ! Hasdrubal. I conceived A hastily formed plan to meet the need. If we enlist our father's sympathy : That I should take the vow at Moloch's shrine Instead of you to-morrow, and your part Would be to save Emporia from the grip 22 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Of deadly foes and demon anarchists — The duty which our father wills to me. A lull would come, Emporia's peace restored, When you might gain domestic happiness. So much desired. Hannibal { gloomily). Brother, my thanks to you : Alas ! it cannot be : the fates are stern. For how could Hannibal place selfish aims Before his duty to his native land. His father, and the gods ? If a mishap Should meet the army in the snow-clad Alps, Or in its conflicts with the hardy foes Who dwell in countries on the destined route, Or in the deadly shock of arms with Rome, Carthage might curse my recreant name and say : The blame is Hannibal's, who in the hour Of urgent need has failed his country's cause ! Hasdrubal. Then, brother, as you will, so let it be. {^Exit Hasdrubal : then enter Katharna.) Hannibal [aside). She comes : how can I break the mournful news ? Katharna. Ah, Hannibal ! it is not yet the hour We fixed upon ; nor would the lagging sands HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 23 Run faster for my chiding : so I thought To be the first to come, but you are here ! I feared you might have gone on urgent work, Caused by the movements of the Roman force Which crossed the stream : for so the peasants say. I heard them as I came discussing it. (Hannibal kisses her hand with tender respect. She observes his gloomy looks?) Oh, say what news ? Hannibal. My love, the sunny light Of your bright face would cheer the darkest day ! But I desire to tell you of a fact Concerning both of us, and seek advice. Which you will give so as to guide my steps With honour in the path of rectitude. The Roman troops are now in full retreat : And on the concentration of our force. My father bids that I should lead his host To Italy, and thus our union Of needs must be postponed until the day When I return here. Katharna {coaxing ly). Not till you return. Come, come, you jest ; or, now I guess the cause : {Pettishly.) Some fairer face, with brighter eyes than mine. 24 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hannibal. I am in earnest, and my words are true : Alas, my love, I would 'twere otherwise ! And of your charms no rivals could be found. Throughout broad Spain, or on my native coasts Of Carthage. Katharna. Hannibal, I pray forgive My foolish jealousy ; but tell me, dear. How can we shun this great catastrophe ? Hannibal {hesitating). The destined ruler of Emporia, My brother, has already offered me To change our posts : our father's sanction given. The marriage then might still be possible, And wedded life amid the cares of rule Would solace, soothe, and strengthen Katharna. Then accept Pray do this, Hannibal, and rescue me, Ere yet too late, from terrible despair ! Now reason with me, love, upon the cause : Say, does the dove that pleads, and not in vain. Forget his wooing in some distant flight, Or taste the joys his melody has won ? How would you bear the absence without words HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 2$ Of tenderness : or might you soon forget ? And though I feel that to no other voice My heart could beat responsively with love, Would you still hold my troth firm-pledged as now ! {A pause.) Or death's autumnal blight delay to strike From off the parent bough neglected fruit Which lacked too long the gardener's fostering care ? True instinct whispers me, if once you go On such a distant arduous enterprise, That we shall never chance to meet again. While yet the warmly flowing tide of youth Invites to present happiness. Hannibal. My love, Then I must yield ; for I have not the power To strive against your wish, nor to deny The pleadings of my heart. Now, dearest, wear The ring I give you as a constant pledge Of my unchanging love, until you lead Into "a closer, willing servitude Your firm, devoted slave. i^He places a ring on her finger : she smiles.) Katharna. A lovely gem Which I shall ever prize. I thank you much. Though little needs my burning heart a breeze To fan its ardent flame. My memory 26 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Will never chafe beneath its silken chains, But ever dwell on you in tenderness. When, as you wished, I told my father all. Seeking approval of our marriage vows, He gladly gave consent to welcome you ! Hannibal. What happiness : I live for you alone ! See now, Hamilcar comes. Katharna. Love, I will go : So then bespeak your father's grace and aid ; For if he deems our marriage suitable, How could belong condemn to live apart Those whom he judges fit for unity ? Hannibal. Then let us meet again at eventide. Upon the threshold of your father's home. Just at the hour the trumpets sound to mark The setting of the watch. Hamilcar's words I then will bear you : and we will discuss Our future plans. Katharna. Yes, dear, let it be so. {Exit Katharna : then enter Hamilcar.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 2^ Hannibal. Father, I would converse with you awhile, If of your goodness you will hear me. Hamilcar. Yes: Speak on, my son : no better chance appears For conversation. Hannibal. Then I ask a boon. Since childhood I have served in every war : And as you have commanded, I obeyed. But now I would request my first reward : Hasdrubal has unfolded your designs For both our future enterprises, sir. Permit that we exchange, for he consents ; Each war bears equal promise of renown : Though from the nature of the services. His being a more sedentary command, I fain would choose it for a year or two. That I might woo a lady in the space ; But when that time is past command again And send me where you will. Hamilcar. I grant your wish : Though fiery Moloch in his angry mood, Aroused by losing thus his votary, May hinder all your plans whate'er they be. 28 HANXIBAL AND KATHARXA E'en at your birth I promised you should live For his high favour : and I named you then. In token of my wish, ^' The Grace of Baal." Hannibal. The risk is mine. Accept my warmest thanks : Your words have opened Heaven's gates to me ! I would consult you further on this theme Of utmost moment : and entreat no less Than for your weighty sanction to be given That I may wed. Hamilcar. With whom ? Hannibal. Katharna, sir : A lady of the noblest blood in Spain, Although her family, impoverished Through clannish feuds, lives in a homely way. You saw her with her father at the sports And races of our troops, but recently : Then, while you questioned him to learn the drift Of Spanish native feeling on the war, I held communion with her close at hand ; And now I feel my happiness depends Upon an early union with her, sir. Hamilcar. I marked you well I A charming girl, no doubt. 'Tis our hot blood that leads to sudden love, With great capacity for suffering ; HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 29 Yet I would not exchange a single drop For all the watery fluids filtering Through the ascetic's cold and fish-like frame ! {Aside.) What answer shall I give to his request, Without offence, yet charged with worldly lore ? If I forbid him, he'll consider me The harshest parent in the universe ; Yet if I grant it, soon a day may come When he will wish I had denied it him. Preserving him unfettered from the bond. And able to pursue his destiny. {Aloud.) My son, it is a serious step indeed That ends your freedom. Youth loves liberty. So ponder on it well : then if your wish Remains unchanged, I will consider it ; But I had hoped your choice might fall at home. And that you would have sought to wed, at least, With a princess of Africa, or else The daughter of some powerful family In Carthage. Hannibal. I have weighed it thoroughly ; Nor do I hesitate, sir. Hamilcar. Well, my son, Katharna has consented, I presume : And do you say Basilio has approved His daughter's marriage ? 30 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hannibal. Yes. She promised me. And has disclosed all to her father, sir, This morning, saying I would come ere long To seek his blessing if you gave me yours ; Basilio seemed well pleased and satisfied. {Aside.) {AlONd.) I know what argument will move him most ! By charms of disposition, face, and form She has enslaved my heart and judgment, too ; Being of a mould where nature promises To generously present a warrior sire With sturdy offspring suitable for war ! Hamilcar. Then I consent, and trust your union May bring the happiness you have well earned By long and arduous service in the field. So, if you have the promised lusty son, Teach him, as I taught you, to vanquish Rome. Instruct him in the arts of government, That haply he may live to rule the world ! Hannibal. I owe much gratitude for your assent, And highly prize your liberal praise of me. However poor my merits. (^.a:// Hamilcar.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 3 1 Haste the hour That leads me back to dear Katharna's charms : What joy will then be hers to hear the news, That I have gained my father's full consent ! [A pause.) How she is altered since at first we met : A budding flower then, and now full-blown ; A tender girl changed to a stately dame. Love is the sun that ripens womanhood ! Well, I will hasten on the marriage-day : At least two years of happiness are ours ; Then if I leave her for the distant wars, Their memory will prove a talisman Amid the darkness of adversity ; And, like a beacon shining through the night. Will guide and cheer me to success at last. {£xtr) Scene IV. Basilio's homestead. Hercta dusting a table under a tree. Enter Muthumbal, passing along a road at the back of the scene : he looks round and nods to Hercta, but moves on doubtfully. Hercta. There's no one here, Muthumbal : don't be shy ! (Muthumbal, who had almost passed out of sight ^ turns smiling^ and approaches Hercta.) 32 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA MUTHUMBAL. My love, you see I have not failed to come, As promised. Hercta. I am very glad, indeed : Welcome, my dear ! I said we are alone. {Looks over her shoulder^ MUTHUMBAL. Then I may venture to [He put his ar7)i roiuid Hercta's luaist a?id, draw- i?ig her ge?iily towards him ^ kisses her cheek!) Hercta [coyl}^. I meant — not that. MUTHUMBAL. 'Tis none the worse for coming without thought : And so I find it. Hercta [poutifig). Oh, you naughty boy ! I hope naught else may happen unawares — Muthumbal. Did time permit and opportunity — Hercta {averting her face for a 7no?nent). Muthumbal, tell me why you looked so sad When first you passed the gable ? HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 33 MuTHUMBAL {seriously). Well, my dear : Because the gloomy thought occurred to me, That I might ne*er again behold this scene, Rendered so happy by our meetings. Hercta. MUTHUMBAL. Why? The Roman army has abandoned Spain ; Our troops will not pursue till gathered here. As lions crouch before they make their spring To deal a distant blow. But I return, Starting to-morrow in the evening. Charged with the secret archives' custody Of the late war in Spain, now haply o'er. To lodge them safe in Carthage. Then I think My military work is done at last ; Unless the Elder's Council should decree That I must join some other armament : [Draiving himself up. ^ Valuing my services already given. Which, as you know, are neither small nor few ; But otherwise I must pursue my trade. As a civilian scribe, in Carthage fixed : Nor would my humble means enable me To seek new wanderings round the Punic world. Now, dear, 1 pray excuse my hurriedness. 34 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hercta, 'tis time that I should take my leave, As business presses much : while there is light. I pray you walk with me a little way Towards the camp, that our last interview May be the longer. Hercta. I half guessed your news. 'Tis sad indeed, Muthumbal, to part thus : But can we find no remedy ? Muthumbal. We'll try ; Let us discuss it, dear, upon the way : Your woman's wit is quicker far than mine. {Exeunt ; then e?iter three Roman soldiers^ under conwiafid ^/ Aulus.) AULUS. "Halt," men, and "Front!" Now, Gavius, keep the ranks : Nor roll away upon the grassy slope Like a round mass of loosened stone. ( Gavius had lou?iged on a couple of yards after the command to halt. ) Gavius {aside, sneering). Too bad : He drives us up and down with haughty tones, As though he were a real corporal. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 35 And not a private soldier in the ranks, Of equal grade with us, but greater age ; Who, chancing to be somewhat sooner born (Through neither skill nor merit of his own). Has consequently served a longer time Than most of us who go along with him, And so is placed in charge of the patrol. Merely a jack-in-office ! ( Gavius returns sulkily to his place in the ranks, ) AULUS. Listen, men : Our mission is accomplished : to observe The cross-roads near this homestead, and to note If there be any sign of marching troops. Sent by our crafty Carthaginian foe. To intercept our forces at the ford ; There is no trace of any movement here. So now the orders bid us start in haste. To follow all our army in retreat. Gavius {sneering ly). Then may we, Aulus, ere returning home, Since wines are generous here and women fair. Provide ourselves with something suitable Or pretty, as a present for our friends ? {Speaking more earnestly?^ We soldiers grumble not to leave the spoil. To join in swift attacks and deadly strife ; Yet, as we now march back to Italy, * 36 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA {Speakhtg with warmth,) Would it not be a pleasing thing to take Some charming dark-eyed Spanish maid ? To show How the Iberian sun can tinge the peach With blushing bloom, and ripen ruddy fruit Fit for the rosy god ! AuLUS {aside). Pernicious words : Breathed by a ready reckless mutineer, iV cunning leader in the devil's cause, Into young ears where they might fructify. Now, after such a bid of bribery, The men might disobey a plain command To turn and leave the plunder offered them ; rU win their reason by good arguments. And make a semblance of consulting them : At least one vote is sure. {Aloud,) Soldiers, attend ! 'Tis true were this some hostile foreign land — Not friendly, neutral Spain, which still we hope Some day to rescue from the Punic grasp — Then custom would permit to take the spoil ; But here we should refrain though holding power, Our only duty is to gather news. Not to disturb the peaceful Spaniard's home. Further, I hold our honour and good name In some sort pledged ; although we now retire Beyond the reach of an avenging arm. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 37 The peasants else might raise to punish us : Guerilla warfare, profitless and dread. I put it to the vote. How say you, men, That we should spare or take ! First Soldier. I say : *^ We spare." Second Soldier. I hold that Gavius has said well : '^ We take." Aulus. Then two wish either course ; so as the chief, I must decide it by a casting vote : ** We spare." And now let us away. Gavius {aside). A fraud ! {Exeunt^ marching. Then enter from the house K\.k.\AK followed by Hercta ; they prepare the table tender a tree for the repast^ Hercta bring- ing out dishes and plates^ while Alalia arranges them. Enter from the house Basil 10.) Basilic {peevishly). Already it is past the dinner liour, To-day, 38 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Alalia. Pray, father, to excuse us still, Because Katharna has not yet returned From meeting my Lord Hannibal at noon, I trust, indeed, she will not be delayed ; It gives me cause for serious doubt and dread When she is absent in such troublesome times : Though now the Roman troops have crossed the stream, Apparently intent on marching north, I hope peace is restored and she is safe. Basilic {absently). A husband worthy of the purest blood Of ancient Spain, which flows within our veins : Though Fortune bids us live most frugally. Nor dwell in castles suited to the rich. And yet. Alalia, I tell you true : All the high lineage of the Suffete's son. With his great power and wealth, were naught to me, Did I not know his suit is born of love. And that Katharna's happiness depends Upon their union, which may heaven bless ! But my old limbs already are fatigued. So I will rest within until she comes. (Basilic enters the house.) {Enter Gavius, through some shrubbery^ without seeing Alalia and Hercta.) « HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 39 Gavius [^soliloquises). Hah, my good Aulus ! So you thought, indeed, To have your way and trick me by the vote. Rather than risk a downright mutiny. It seems You failed to turn me from my fixed resolve ; For if by chance some men decline their share Of what the gracious gods bestow as spoil Upon the toilers in a hard campaign, The more remains for others, that is all. Had you not picked a quarrel with me first. For slouching, as you dared to term my gait, I would have done your bidding readily ; But that is past, and I am freed from you. Which of us is most independent now ? Alone, I guide my party at my will. But you must join the host, and yield command Of the small guard o'er which you lorded it. Should I be guided by a pedant's wish ? No. First I will enjoy each luxury. Then find my own way back to Italy, As military rules are so severe. (^He ^^^i* Alalia, tvho^ observing the freedom of his look and manner ^ shrinks back.) Ye gods ! I spoke prophetically, too : Phrasing of ripened beauty's coloured cheek : For, if the treacherous wine deceives me not. Behold the dainty dame I dreamed about ! {He reels slightly.) Yes, she shall be my lovely prize of war. 40 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA {To Alalia.) Come, dear, along with me to Rome ! Alalia. Help! help! (Alalia endeavours to escape. Gavius seizes and is dragging her away : she sh?'ieks and faints. Basilio, from the house, and Hercta, rush foriuard to rescue her. Basilio raises his stick ill both ha?ids to strike Gavius on the head. Gavius draws his sword and runs Basilic through, killi7ig hi?n. Hercta flies, Gavius bears away Alalia. After a long pause, enter Katharna.) Katharxa. I bring good news for those who ever join In sympathy with me. {^She shrieks on seei?ig her father s body : at the same moment Hercta runs out from behind the house.) My father ! Help ! O heaven ! Say, Hercta, what means this ? (Katharna hurries to her father : kneels beside him : exami?ies his face, his eyes, and looks to see 7uhether he breathes : feels his forehead, hand, and pulse at the wrist ^ Hercta. Alas ! There came a Roman soldier flushed with wine. And seized your sister who prepared the meal : HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 4I She struggled hard, shrieking aloud for aid ; Your father quickly issued from the house And strove to save her ; but the man, enraged, Clutched at his sword and struck Basilio dead, Then bore away Alalia in a swoon. I fled in fear, but followed on the hill Until I saw him wade across the ford ; Then having safely gained the further bank. He mingled with the crowd of baggage men And motley followers. Katharna. Oh, alas the day ! My father dead : Alalia lost ! Then I {She draws a dagger, raises it aloft, and is on the point of killing herself : then lowers it.) Not so : fools plunge the weapons in their breasts, The wise keep for their foes. {She replaces the dagger in her dress. Still on her knees she bends over her fathe7'''s face ^ I must be calm. Speak to me, father, but a word again ! He moves ! Ah, no ; it was the spirit shade Hovering an instant o'er its late abode ! Marking its presence by the quivering nerve, As the soft zephyr touches tranquil pools. Stirring the surface from its lifelessness. {She weeps.) How can I e'er repay you for your love, 42 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Which dowered me with every happiness That you could grant since I was yet a child ? Yes, I was to be married soon, but now Joy seems a treason to your memory. {^She springs to her feet^ and paces backwards and forwards^ with her hands clenched?) I vow to heaven to dedicate my life, In filial duty, to obtain revenge : Although it costs, as earthly sacrifice, ■Sly dearest hopes, my love and happiness. Immortal gods, behold my father's wrongs : Record these solemn words, and grant me aid To give them meaning ! {^She speaks hurriedly?) Hercta, I must go Immediately ! But you shall stay behind Until the coming of Lord Hannibal, Who presently will seek me as arranged. Tell him of the catastrophe, but say. That as I followed to the river's brink. Striving to save my sister from the fiend. He turned and slew me : then the rushing waves Swallowed me in their depths ; but as I fell I called to you, ''Tell Hannibal of this," And say I prayed him seek revenge for me. {^She speaks deliberately?) Then having fired him thus, join me at once Beside the temple ; bring sure-footed mules, With saddle-bags containing simple food. That we may fly beyond the reach of search. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 43 {She raises her voice ^ So the balked lion in his agony Will wreak on Rome dread vengeance for this deed ! {Exit Katharna.) Hercta. Alas ! my master dead, under whose roof I ever was retained with kindliness ; Here I have passed a peaceful happy life, Since left an orphan by the civil wars. Of my dear mistresses yet one remains. And so has greater claims upon my love. Obedience, and devotion to her cause, By which I might repay a trifling share Of the great debt of endless gratitude I owe herself and all her family. Were it not better that Lord Hannibal Should know the truth at once, and rescue her From gloomy unprotected wanderings : Meeting us at the fane, it would appear As if kind fate had sent him to her aid ! It might be so, and yet no choice remains : I must obey ; it is my only course To follow out her wishes for the time ; For it would be a cruel shame on me To take her orders and betray the trust ; But I will plead to her while not too late, To turn her mind from all her misery. Seeking her solace in a husband's love And happiness. {Enter Hannibal.) i 44 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hannibal {aside). Some evil fate is here ! (Aloud.) What horror, Hercta ! Is Basilio dead, Or merely swooning ? Hercta. Dead, I fear, my lord ; Alas ! if you had only chanced to come Just one short hour ago, all had been well : But now {SAe weeps^ Hannibal. How did this tragedy occur ? Hercta. A Roman soldier, of a brutal mien. Rushed from the wood and seized my mistress, first Alalia, who cried aloud for help, At which my master hurried to her aid ; But the fierce Roman slew him with his sword, And dragged his prize towards the river-bank. My mistress, dear Katharna, then arrived. And speeding after them most recklessly. She overtook the robber at the ford ; (A pause. ) Turning, he stabbed and hurled her in the stream ! (Hercta weeps?) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 45 \\ Hannibal. O heaven, help me ! Hercta. She was swept away, Till, sinking, she called loud to me who watched, To pray you be revenged for her on Rome ! (Hercta weeps.) Hannibal. Ye gods ! there is no need to ask of me To seek the vengeance fury bids me have ! From this hour forth I give my life to it. To-morrow morning, as my father wished. At Moloch's altar I will take the vow That binds me to his service evermore ! {He speaks hurriedly to Hercta.) Now haste and lead me to the very spot Near which you saw the lady disappear ; For often currents cast upon the shores. Or strand amid the shallows of the stream. One fallen in the river far above ; And if by chance this was the case with her. We may not find her, even now, too late : The spirit yet might be recalled to life ; As chance stays but an instant and is gone For ever from our grasp. Haste, haste, lead on ! {Exeunt.) 46 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Scene V. Before a Ruined Temple. Enter Katharna and Hercta, meeting. Hercta. Madam, the mules stand tethered at the gate, With preparations, as you ordered me. Completed. Katharna. Hercta, it is well, so far : But I have waited long and anxiously To learn the progress of the desperate plan With which I charged you. Hercta. Madam, it proceeds By leaps and bounds. {Aside) Indeed, I fear, too well ! {Aloud.) Although you bade me do a painful deed, E'en if necessity demanded it. Yet I have done all you instructed me. Within my power. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 47 Katharna. How did he bear the news ? Hercta. Lord Hannibal was seized by a fierce calm : His mien was terrible, his words were few. Katharna. Alas ! So strong men suffer more than those Who, weak in fibre, shriek and tear their hair. What did he do and say ? Hercta. My story heard, He hurried to the river, searched the banks For miles below, in hopes of finding you. Cast by some friendly current on the shore : Then, in despair, gave up the hopeless task ; But, before leaving, he declared to me That at the dawn to-morrow he would vow Sealing his life to Moloch's services. He leads the army soon to Italy. Katharna. War is a hero's trade and suits him well ; And yet, alas, that he should suffer thus : He is so noble, kind, and generous ! [A pause.) « 48 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hercta {aside). Now is the moment ; I may rescue her ! {Aloud.) I pray you, madam, pause while not too late To end his cruel tortures and your own. Permit me to return to him at once, Saying that grief for your dear father's death Had caused your flight, but you have now returned, And wish to see him ere the sun be set. As to the tale I told him — He shall think. That, being anxious to conceal your flight, I had invented it ; then, if enraged, He seeks to punish me for trifling thus — I'm swift and can elude him. Katharna. Hercta, no. I am most grateful for your sympathy ; But what you have proposed in kindliness Cannot be carried out. I must not change, And will not even pause or hesitate. I know full well, as your report has shown, He loves me truly as I worship him : That is a furnace fit to forge the blade ! Though misery must await both him and me, Yet from the depth of all our suffering {A pause.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 49 Will rise, high-tempered, strong, a fiery sword, Which he shall wield to be revenged on Rome. {A pause^ in the midst of which Katharna bursts into tears^ and, covering her face with one hand, extends the other to Hercta, who takes it.) Your plan's impossible, my dear : let's go. {Exeunt.) Scene VI. In front of the Carthaginian camp. The army formed in order of battle ; in the centre is a stone altar, decked with garlands of flowers. On the right of the altar stands Hamilcar ; and on his right the staff are drawn up, including Gisco, Maharbal, and MuTHUMBAL, holding a roll of papyrus and a reedpen, and having a black ink-bottle suspended to the front of his girdle. In front of the altar stands Magdassan. At the back of the scene Hamilcar's escort and trumpeters form a line. Magdassan {to Hamilcar). My lord, it is a valued privilege. Devolving upon me, to speak to-day As second in command. I humbly bear, From this great Carthaginian host arrayed. To you its chief and Suffete, world-renowned : 50 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Assurance of our earnest gratitude For skilfully victorious guidance past, Our firm devotion present and to come. While we deplore the fulness of the years Which hinders you from leading us again When soon we start upon the road to Rome, We are prepared to witness at this hour The pious dedication of your son Hasdrubal at the ever-sacred shrine Of mighty Molock, here with honour raised, To fight till Rome yields to him. We receive Obediently, with trust, the chief you give, To guide us onward in the arduous strife. Most earnestly we pray the fiery god To bid him rise triumphant o'er his foes ; That we may overcome all obstacles. Gigantic difficulties, hardships, which Beset the narrow frozen Alpine paths. Over the dizzy heights amid the clouds. Until at length we reach the fertile plains Upon the distant sunny borderland Of Italy. Hamilcar. Magdassan, what could swell — More than the choice of you as messenger, A famous and a favoured general — The honour which the army does to me, In its kind homage to an aged chief. Who ever prized the men as glorious sons ? Express to them my deepest gratitude HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 5 1 For all their words of duty and of love. They are the valiant troops whom Carthage thanks, With glowing pride, for bravely-rescued Spain, A brilliant jewel in her diadem. And now to form a base from which to strike A deadly blow against the flank of Rome. But an old lion must at length repose. And die at last of age, though spared by death. Encountered long on hard-contested fields ; Then must the lion's brood assume his place. For which I dedicate a son to-day : Would that it were my first-born, as the rite Demands when offering to our chosen gods ; But I have felt constrained to grant his prayer, Bearing in mind his arduous services, And named him ruler of Emporia To serve an urgent matter of the heart, Which binds with strongest bonds a warrior. When honour and stern duty set him free. For not less arduous is his chosen post : And yet its nature will enable him To sip the honey and cull the flowers Of married bliss. (Hamilcar makes a sign to Hasdrubal, a7id they draw nearer to the altar?) Bear witness, O ye gods ! That now in presence of this mighty host, I dedicate to Moloch's services. My son 52 hannibal'^and katharna MuTHUMBAL (aside). Who's this in haste approaching us ? {Addressing Hamilcar.) Hold, sir ! Nor deem my conduct impious, That I should interrupt the sacred rite ! See, yonder comes Lord Hannibal himself ! {Aside.) Though scarce himself, I fear, to judge his look. {Enter Hannibal, pale and dishevelled.) Hannibal. I, Hannibal, your eldest son, have come To claim my destined vow in hate of Rome. It was not fitting, when I thought to place My selfish aims before the country's cause ; The august god, whose service I denied, Reached forth his mighty arm and crushed my hopes. {He presses his hands to his face i?i anguish^ then recovers composure^ Pray ask no more, (Hasdrubal makes way for Hannibal beside the altar. ) To conquer fate ! Hasdrubal. O Hannibal, you come HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 53 Hamilcar. Let it be so, my sons : The gods decree in spite of human will ! [A sunbeam falls on the ground before the altar ^ Magdassan. Auspicious sign ! Look how the sun bursts forth, Which hid till now his burnished face close-wrapped Behind a sable cloak of thunder-clouds, Embroidered with a fringe of golden light, A token of the glory they concealed. ( The sunbeam moves to the altar ^ envelops it, and then remains stationary^ The ray moves to the altar ! See the light Of Baal's countenance, which views our gift, And smiles acceptance of the offering ! {^All present raise their hands towards the altar in pious adoration,^ [Curtain!) A i ACT II. Scene I. Hannibal's tent in f^^ont of the Carthagi?iian camp^ on high grou7id overlookifig the Trebia, which flows diagonally across the distant scenery j beyo7id the riveY appears the Roman camp. Hannibal and Gisco are standing before the tent. Hannibal. Gisco, now that a leisure hour has come, Pray signal that the prisoners may attend, And make my present orders known to them. First, those who wish may freely join our ranks To share the plundering of Italy. The rest in single combat, man to man. As chosen by the plan of casting lots. May fight, if they should wish to try their fate. To the brave warriors grant these worthy terms ; The conquerors win both freedom and their arms. The vanquished will be saved by certain death From pining longer in captivity. To this they will most readily agree ; Then cry : *' Ye soldiers of the Punic host, As we are now invading Italy, 54 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 55 Your fate is what the prisoners gladly sought : Death frees you if you fail, while if you win, You gain life, triumphs, and more spoil than they ! *' So, Gisco, let stout combats such as these Be fought before the camp of every column, For bright examples. Gisco. Certainly, my lord. It shall be done. Hannibal. Then since the Roman troops Have reached the fords to-night, as if they wished To cross the stream at dawn and seize the road Of our retreat to Spain, by which we came : Though we might now fall back and save the line Which our position here must jeopardise, Yet I would rather stand and tempt them on, To crush them as they cross, or hurl them back Into the seething flood to perish there ; But- if defeated, then our host is lost, Having no refuge left to shelter in. After abandoning all certain ways By which we might escape in case of rout. What leader ever tempted Providence With rashness such as this ? For here it rests : I hold, two armies striving in the field Resemble swordsmen fighting on a plank Which bridges an abyss between two cliffs : For either force advances or retires, 56 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA But neither may remove to right or left, Which I attempt by this manoeuvring : Yet I will ponder deeply over it. Return, I pray you, long before the dawn. And I will then decide anent this stroke By which I win or lose. Gtsco. I will, my lord. {Exit Gisco. Enter a Carthaginian Officer?^ Officer. Most noble master, as our guards patrolled. Searching a lonely track which leads from Spain, They seized a straggler who was journeying thence — A Roman soldier with a lovely dame Whom he termed wife, though she denied the bond. And craved the favour of an audience. Saying you knew Alalia in Spain, And that Katharna's sister now entreats You may accord the boon. Hannibal (aside). Alalia found ! To what tumultuous thoughts her name gives rise. {To the Officer.) 'Tis well ! conduct the lady here at once. {Exit Officer^ who presently returns with Alalia ; she throws herself at Hannibal's /'XIBAL AKD KATHARXA As sacrifices to my diet>-. Haste ! Haste, the fated day if viz : -ished Rome Is doomed to oerish br ereat Mclrci s will ; SCEXZ III. Grfffft of the temple of Asktarotk, the wufom-goddess^ at Cartkage. Emier MrxHVi^rPAL ---' Hurcta, wuet- MrXHXTMBAU Why, HdcU ! (HxRCTA hurries fonpori^ and extends hath handSj which MuTHiTMBAL grosps.) HXRCTA, Too, Mnthumbal! MuTmrMBAL, Yes, indeed : What heaTcnly power has sent yea ? H£RCTA. It is fate. Which gladdens me as well, by bringing here A friend to greet me amongst foreigners. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 75 MUTHUMBAL. What tempted you to Carthage ? Hercta. By mere chance, I travelled with a wealthy dame from Spain, Camilla is her name, who settled here Not long ago. MUTHUMBAL. Thank goodness you have come ; May we meet often, is Muthumbal's prayer. Hercta. If you still care, I'll do so willingly. MUTHUMBAL. Care, Hercta ? Hercta {^pouting). Well, 'tis long since last we met And passed so many pleasant hours in Spain. MUTHUMBAL. If this were not a public place, my dear. Where grave men's eyes would mark a levity. And sombre minds might deeply censure me, Then I would offer you a gentle sign ^6 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA That my affection lasts for ever true. I long to add fresh memories to the old, Of happy days that I have spent with you ; Nor do I care for pleasing novelty, Which might have tempted men more frivolous To waver in your absence, and forget The fading forms of charming scenes long past. Hercta. Tell me, Muthumbal, how you prosper here ? MuTHUMBAL [looking proudly around). No more a warrior in the Punic host, Where, I may mention confidentially, I aided much the difficult success And glorious triumph of our arms in Spain ! I am the trusted scribe of Malchus now, Able lieutenant of our governor. The Suffete Hanno, whose wise policy Controls our state with undisputed sway, Since great Hamilcar's recent death in Spain, And while bold Hannibal remains abroad ; But often when the Suffete is oppressed By difficult matters and cares of state. He will consult with Malchus, who asks me To prompt his ready judgment of the case ! {Proudly.) 'Tis then some happy stroke of genius shines, In Punic policy, to light the world : HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA T"] And all men marvel at its brilliancy, Giving the glory to the Suffete's skill, {^Mournfully}) While its true author is Muthumbal, here : {Dismally^ Doomed like a root to lie beneath the ground, {^yauntily^ But able to force up the vigorous stem Which bears sweet flowers and fruit to bless mankind ! Hercta. Is Malchus a good master to you now ? Muthumbal (after a pause). He's kindly. Hercta. How : not kind without being good ? Muthumbal. He gives me little rank and smaller pay ; {^A pause.) Yet once he saved my life. Hercta {clasping her hands). Oh, how was that ? 78 HAXNIBAL AND KATHARXA MUTHUMBAL. One day when he was acting on my hint, A weighty business failed ; had he but told. In explanation, that the plan was mine. The raging Hanno would have had me slain To ease his bile ! Hercta. Bat Malchus did not tell ? MUTHUMBAL. Good Malchus kept his counsel, and I live ! Hercta. To give no credit when you guide them right. Yet kill you if your best advice prove wrong. Is neither justice nor humanity. MuTHXJMBAL {bitUrly), And yet it is a worldly way, I fear : The strong to seize upon the better prize. And cast the burdens on the helpless crew \Miose backs must bear them. Hercta {j^rrsuasively). Come, Muthumbal, come : You are embittered by your grievances, And take a much too gloomy view of life ; HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 79 Ungenerous to the wise, the kind, and just. To those who freely give a liberal share Of wealth to aid the cause of charity, And find their happiness in doing good ; As well as those who, having lions' strength, Hold back their powers in noble equity, Supporting what is right and for the best. Consider this, and do not yet despair Of human nature. {A pause.) Malchus took the blame : Did Hanno threaten him with death ? MUTHUMBAL. Oh, no : He could not spare him. There are many scribes. So in my case it would be different. [A pause.) 'Twas no mean danger that Malchus incurred. Braving the open or the secret force Of Hanno's wrath, to shield a humble scribe. His kindness touched me, for he took the blame. Hercta. Did Hanno punish him in lesser ways ? MUTHUMBAL. Not so, for Malchus might have sought revenge, Using for mischief any casual power. 80 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Given by the knowledge of his master's plans, Or the dark workings of his policy ; Deep secrets which are hidden from even me, And might not bear inspection. Hercta. To live thus, When any day your work might earn the cross, Is terrible I MUTHUMBAL. Indeed, it would be so ; But since luck saved me and my life escaped, Through my good master's kindly clemency. Having in view to run no second risk, I have adopted a more prudent course. Persuading Malchus, wuth some share of skill, The thoughts I suggest are his own ideas ; Thus he accepts the bantlings readily. And fathers them in triumph or defeat. Hercta {dubiously). The plan succeeds, then ? Muthumbal. Yes, it does, my dear. Hercta [laughing). Well done, Muthumbal ! Your are wise enough. And may be trusted to protect yourself. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 8 1 But I must hasten to my mistress now : So, fare-you-well ! MUTHUMBAL. Say, will you meet me here. At the same hour to-morrow evening ? (Hercta runs backwards^ smiling and kissing the tips of her fingers to him.) Aye, if all's well ! Hercta. MUTHUMBAL. Good-bye, my love, till then ! {^Exeunt.) Scene IV. A street in Carthage^ outside the Senate-House, Enter the Suffete Hanno in a state litter^ escorted by soldiers^ and attended by Malchus. Hanno alights from the litter^ and turns to the bearers a?id escort. Hanno. Wait for me over there a little while. {They obey.) Now, Malchus, we approach the Senate-House, 82 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA So I must choose quickly the wisest course ; For I can never make my will prevail Without clear definitions of my wish, Born of a settled plan. I think it best To grant at once the force that Hannibal Asks through his brother Mago at our hands ; What other answer could we send to him, Supported by the people ? Malchus. Good, my lord, You surely would not thus decide in haste To send the troops, if I could clearly show That course is fraught with danger to the State ? Suppose that Hannibal should conquer Rome, Who would be master of the Punic world ? Where would be then your present dignity As ruler, with a beneficent sway ? The need of my advice, or the full power To fittingly reward me for the aid ! Great Hannibal, the irresponsible, Would crush resistance to his sovereign will ; Who could deem that an end to be desired. For freedom's cause or yet our country's good ? Not I, for one, sir ! Hanno. Weighty reasons, friend : And as our nation's interests are at stake, {Aside.) {Aloud.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 83 'Tis better not to grant the Spanish troops ; But would the populace approve ? Malchus. No doubt : I thought of that matter when coming here ; And hold you may divert the people's thoughts From Hannibal remaining without help ; For they will thank you for a holiday, Nor pay new taxes for a distant war. Declare in open Senate that to aid Our righteous cause of arms throughout the world, *Tis best to pray to the immortal gods, And name a day for human sacrifice At Moloch's shrine. The priests will praise your plan, Strengthening your power with all their influence ; They long have sought an opportunity To punish sinners who despise the gods. Holding the flamens as of little worth ; For which offences they would levy fines, Or seize the children of such impious men As a fit sacrifice for Moloch's fire : And might it not be useful to my Lord, In contumacious cases of dissent. From your benign, enlightened policy, If you could cause a hint to be conveyed, That if the parents' conduct should accord More with the obvious wishes of the gods — Which are, of course, interpreted by you — To give support to all your arguments. 84 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Their children might be safer from the flames ? Think what a mighty stimulus is here To flagging zeal, and what a straightener-out Of crooked consciences ! Haxno. All very true : It shall be managed as you have proposed. (Haxxo enters t/ie Seriate' House. Exit Malchus.) Scene V. Reception-room in the mansion of Katharna, at Carthage^ where she is now dwelling under the name of Cx^ni.\.A. Katharna seated^ engaged with crochet-work in coloured luorsteds. Enter a Slave. Slave. Madam, the Suffete Hanno has arrived : Waiting your gracious pleasure, he requests The favour of an interview. Katharna. Indeed ? Admit his Excellency. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 8$ (^Extt Slave, who presently returns conducting Hanno, and then withdraws. Katharna rises, smilifig, and bows to Hanno ; then motions him to be seated, and resumes her seat!) Katharna. Good, my lord, What lucky chance has turned your busy thoughts From stern affairs of state to me ? Hanno. I pray, Fair lady, tell me first : why does the flower, After night's darkness, turn towards the sun And watch, entranced, his course — imbibing life ? For then I will explain the simile. {^A pause ^ As the bright sun eclipses moon and stars. So do you ever shine pre-eminent Amongst the Punic dames ; by every right Of beauty, charm, and worth. (Hanno bows!) Katharna. But surely, sir. No cloud obscures the Punic firmament ; The rising fortunes of your mighty state Are most auspicious, since proud Rome lies crushed Beneath the deadly blow of Cannae ! 86 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hanno (drily). Yes ; May they remain so is my prayer, and yet I fear they will not always triumph thus, In warfare carried on beyond the seas ; Although a public holiday is fixed, For human sacrifice at Moloch's shrine, To pray him aid our forces. Katharna. Is that all, When Mago has arrived to ask for help. To reap the harvest ready for the blade ? Hanno. 'Tis true, but neither can we spare the cost, On account of our heavy taxes here ; Nor yet Hasdrubal from the strife in Spain, Where his brave troops still carry on the war With the last army sent by sea from Rome Against him. Katharna. Surely you will not rely Entirely, noble Suffete, on your prayers ; For would the gods believe you are sincere ? Now send Hasdrubal and his force from Spain, As Hannibal entreats, who knows the need ; Do this in place of human sacrifice. {^A pause!) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 8/ Hanno (dubiously). Madam, the matter seems to move you much. Katharna. It does, my lord, because of gratitude For Carthaginian hospitality ; And also that I have inherited A deadly feud with Rome ; then know besides, I am a native of a distant land. Where we believe that human sacrifice Is only grateful to the gods above When offered boldly on the battle-field. In open warfare. Hanno. 'Twould be difficult To alter now the well-considered plans, Approved already by the Senators At my suggestion. Katharna. Difficult to some : Not to my lord, whose lightest wish is law. Hanno {smiling), I would, dear madam, it were so with you ! Katharna {coyly). Why? 88 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hanno ^passionately^ Inspired by my ardent love, I'd dare to claim the fruits Katharna (averting her face) . The fruits of love ? (A pause^ during which she appears to hesitate j she then continues with downcast eyes.) Who knows what conquests you may not achieve If you will send the force ? (A pause^ after which she raises her eyes, and meets his gaze.) Yet no true knight Barters brave deeds against a lady's smiles, But strikes a gallant blow in hopes of them, Founding his claim for the desired rewards Upon her gratitude. Hanno [aside), I'll hazard it ! [Aloud and eagerly.) It shall be as you wish ; the troops shall go Upon the mystic plea that I have seen Great Moloch, who appeared and ordered me To send Hasdrubal on to Italy, And sacrifice in battle Roman hosts Instead of children at his Punic shrine. But when it is resolved upon, I trust We meet? HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 89 Katharna {with charming embarrassment). Say rather, when the force arrives At its due destination ; then command Camilla, who meanwhile must bid adieu. {She rises smiling, and bows to Han no, who smiles and bows ^ Hanno. Madam, I then remain your slave, as now. {Exit Hanno.) Katharna. I trust the desperate game I play is won, And Hannibal will gain the wished-for aid. I dwell in Carthage but to serve the cause : For this I lead the odious Suffete on. And bandy triflings hurtful to my fame ; For vengeance now I stake my life ; and yet I guard intact my honour, come what may. {Exit Katharna.) ACT III. Scene I. Entraiice to the temple of yiipiter at Ro??ie. Within it ca7i be seen a ci^owd^ many of whom are women ^ leading o?' ca7'rying children. The people are bowing and bending the knee^ or kneeling and lyi?ig pros- trate on the ground ; occasioiially risi?ig and extend- ing their ar7?is towards the statue of J upiter^ which stands at the further end of the tonple. The luotnen have dishevelled hair, and the whole appearance of the people suggests terror and distress. Enter Scipio. Scipio. Wild panic and confusion everywhere : The weak turn traitors and the strong turn weak ; Thus paralysed by Hannibal's approach, We might conclude an ignominious peace, Opening the gates to Punic treachery^ And choosing a short road to meet our doom ; But I must thwart this fatal policy ; So I have bribed the cunning soothsayers, To find the mystic omens favourable For stout resistance and continued war, 90 il 132 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Third Insurgent. Yes, comrades, stay : Hanno thought best to serve our country's good By sending out Hasdrubal and his force ; The measure failed, but he was not to blame ; That is my view. Fourth Insurgent. He should have sacrificed As he had promised, giving holiday. And not by trifling tantalise the god, Until he slaughtered all our hardiest troops. To recompense him for the public loss Of his due honours. First Insurgent. All might have been well If he had sacrificed and kept his word : He promised us a general holiday And lighter taxes ; yet he changed his plans To please his fancy and a foreigner, Who might wish ill to Carthage any day ; And if 'tis true that she bewitched his mind, He was unfortunate but still in fault. So he must suffer for the public good. Second Insurgent. Yes, for he merits death ! HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 33 Other Insurgents. And Malchus too ! Second Insurgent. Where shall we slay them ? Fourth Insurgent. They deserve the cross ! ( The sound of a distant trumpet is heard. ) First Insurgent. Hark to the trumpet sounding the alarm : Soldiers will hurry here to rescue them : Time presses ! Second Insurgent. Bear them to the battlements, And hurl the cunning traitors headlong thence ! First Insurgent. Well said ! Away with them ! Other Insurgents {entering hurriedly.) The troops ! The troops ! 134 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Fourth Insurgent. Quick, quick ! Lead on ! Voices from the Crowd. Away ! Lead on ! Away ! ^Exeunt the mob, dragging Hanno and Malchus. Re-enter Mu tkvubal, fo/Zotaed fy an Officer leading a compa?ty of soldiers.) MuTHUMBAL {excitedfy.) I fear the mob, knowing their time is short, May do the mischief faster. Officer. Yet, be sure. My men will give a good account of them. And all their leaders shall be put to death ; Caught thus red-handed, doing violence To Hanno and a Suffete's dignity ! MUTHUMBAL. We must do more, for it behoves to save Two valued lives in greatest jeopardy. {Exeunt hurriedly , following the crowd.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 135 Scene IV. Throne-room in ^VB.Ayi.'s palace. Courtiers conversing in groups^ awaiting the King's arrival. Parihu and two courtiers for7n a group in front. Parihu. Everything was successful ; and the sun Shone, with bright hope for these dominions, Upon the crowds and pageantry displayed In honour of the marriage of the King. When, from the temple's porch, their Highnesses Came forth to mount the elephants of state, How joyously the people thronged around : With warmest welcomes offered to our lord And lovely Sophonisba. First Courtier. It is well That a fair consort should enjoy the throne : Who, with a woman's care and tenderness. May gently influence her husband's mind ; Ameliorating much the people's lot In times of famine and distress. ( The Hunchback Joins the group.) The Hunchback. News ! News ! My lieges, I bring news 136 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Second Courtier. Surely you jest ! The Hunchback. If I did make a joke 'twas not my first : And if I boasted, I but followed out A motto which I framed in early youth ; For thus it ran : — Your trumpet always blow : Unless perchance you can Persuade some other man To advertise your show. Second Courtier. You do it well : Having had much experience in the art. The Hunchback. Yes, truly ; most men are too much engaged In chanting their own praises, to attend Or spare me their assistance for my tune ; While some are occupied in picking holes In others' coats. (^He 710 ds significantly towards the S'Cond courtier , li'ho turns away disdainfully?) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 37 First Courtier. Pray, what may be your news ? The Hunchback. I'll state what is my news, by your kind leave. First, Hanno has been slain in a street brawl. Or sudden rising of a faction mob. Next, Carthage has recalled the lion's brood, Hamilcar's sons, to defend Africa Against the troops of wily Scipio, Whose army threatens at her city gates. But word has come of gallant Mago's death. From wounds lately received at Genoa. He breathed his last when traversing the sea. And died : the only thing he ever did Of which I disapprove ! First Courtier. Who brought the news ? The Hunchback. I heard a messenger inform the King. Mago is blameless ; doubtless he'd have lived Had it been possible. Second Courtier. If tired of life. You would not have refused his fixed desire, 138 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA And doomed him without favour or excuse, A jaded man to walk a weary world ? The Hunchback. No one may die unless he wish to live. Second Courtier. Explain your meaning ? The Hunchback. For example now : If king and country have decreed his death, Or send him journeying for the nation's good Where rigorous winters mercilessly scourge. Fierce scorching suns and winds asphyxiate. Or where the niggard earth withholds her yield, And exile means destruction. Second Courtier {drily). Very true ; " Happy despatch," his fate might then be called ! The Hunchback. That hinges on his nationality. Look eastward : — How the folks in Russia * Despatch whole crowds but never happily I Look west : — There lie the favoured British Isles : Whose people, always happy, ne'er despatch ! At least so say the Punic mariners : * N. B. — The anachronism here, as to name and fact, is of course intentional. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 39 Who go, attracted by the mines of tin, To barter Carthaginian merchandise For the rich ores found in the rocky earth. And amber gathered on the Baltic coasts — The tempest-beaten ocean's frozen foam ; Sure talisman for witchcraft and disease, A valued gem and brilliant ornament. [A pause, ) They deem the British women beautiful, Who yet prefer to wed their countrymen Rather than mate with any foreigners ; But this the Carthaginian sailors hold A proof of very strange and faulty taste In matrimonial matters. First Courtier. Yes, no doubt : 'Tis natural for disappointed men. Esteeming highly their own worthiness. To wish the heavens were green instead of blue ! Pray how does Carthage city prosper ? The Hunchback {^significantly). 0-o-o-oh ! Why there the wealthy merchant citizens Place profit before all. Believe me, sirs. There is no outrage or atrocity Which they cannot achieve by means of gold. Meanwhile they bear themselves most jauntily, As having right and justice on their side : 140 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA And loudly they proclaim their ends in view Are freedom, science, progress, or the good Of some one else, but never of themselves. What villainies they order they ignore ; While the poor tools, through whom they gain their ends, Have sold themselves to Satan, without choice : For hunger's a hard master ! First Courtier. Very bad ! The Hunchback {sententiously). Bad for good men : but without carrion There'd be no food for crows ! Second Courtier. You've croaked enough ! Have you no good news to dilute the ill ? The Hunchback. Yes : Hannibal has landed on the coast, And now gathers his gallant troops in haste. To bar the onward march of Scipio. {A third courtier Joins the groups in ti??ie to hear the Hunchback's last reply.) Third Courtier. A pleasing prospect truly : yet there lowers On our horizon a portentous cloud ; For word is now brought by a courier HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 141 That Massinissa calls his state to arms. But who can tell his secret purposes ? Whether he will turn eastward at the news That Hannibal is on the Punic coast, Or, plunging midst the woods, the swamps and wastes, Will he emerge upon us suddenly, Hoping to find our army unprepared, And snatch a victory through our tardiness ? Therefore I say, good sirs, that if no war Arise to overshadow all our joy. We may esteem it fortunate. First Courtier. Grave news ; But let us hope that fate will favour us : And as the mountain draws the thunder-cloud, So Hannibal attracts him to the east. {Enter Sphax, leading Sophonisba by the hand^ with respectful affection. He conducts her to the thrones^ where they seat themselves side by side. The courtiers bow low as the royal couple pass, and then await the King's pleasure?) Sphax. I thank you for your noble escort, sirs ; And that in martial courtesy you brought Warriors and elephants to swell my train. And now we bid you all, my lords, farewell ! {The nobles and courtiers bow. Exeunt all except Sphax a;^^ Sophonisba. Sphax continues.) 142 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA A pleasing duty thus to register Throughout the morning many a friendly vow, With loyal prayers breathed for our happiness. And now, my love, accept from me, I pray, My warmest welcome to these ancient halls. Which henceforth are your home ; while I remain Your firm-devoted lover, friend, and slave, {Sfniltng.) Your husband and parental guardian. {He bows to SOPHONISBA.) SOPHONISBA. Your kindness moves me, sir, beyond all words Which I might feebly use in gratitude ; I will implore the gods for health and strength. That I may tend you with a daughter's care, And bring conjugal happiness {Enter a Messenger^ hurriedly. ) Messenger. My liege, I come to warn you thus in hottest haste. That Massinissa marches on the coast : While his armed galleys lash the sea to foam. And bear his lines prolonged upon the waves. So eager is his mood, he hastens here With cavalry, to strike an earlier blow. And has already hurried far ahead Of his main army. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I43 Sphax. Youth was ever rash. *Tis well ; now summon all the gallant chiefs Who led my conquering troops but yesterday Against this young marauder. By the aid Of the immortal gods, vouchsafed before, My host again shall triumph. Send me here A laurel-wreath prepared to crown my brows On my return, when the good citizens Will bring congratulations. Messenger. Yes, my liege. {Exit Messenger.) Sphax. May his impatience prove his final doom ; For, if he hurries on, almost alone. To meet him first and then his following troops. Is better than to fight with both combined. {Enter an Officer bemHng a wreath of later els which he hands ^ with an obeisance^ to Sphax, who places it upo?i a small table. Exit Officer. ) Sphax {to Sophonisba). I leave this wreath at hand, and before long You shall enhance its worth by placing it 144 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Upon a conqueror's brow ; and now, farewell ! I give you, dearest, into Tanit's care ! {^He kisses her fo7'ehead.^ SOPHONISBA. I pray good fortune may attend you, sir ! {^Exit Sphax hurriedly.) I would that dear Katharna were with me, Then I should feel less lonely when the King Is absent at the wars or else the chase, As doubtless he will often need to be. And when the urgent matters are complete That called her back to Carthage on the news Of Hanno's death, she will return again ; For as she journeyed hence she pledged her word. May she come soon ! I must have patience now. {Exit) Scene V. The garde ?is of Hannibal's palace at Carthage. Enter Katharna, disguised as a fortune-teller. Her hair falls down over the forehead : and as her shawl ^ which passes over her headj is draw7i across a considerable portion of her face^ little more than the eyes remain uncovered, Katharna {turning suddenly^ . Ah, Hannibal approaches ! Would that now I might make myself known, perhaps retrieve HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I45 Our happiness, in this one interview ; Bat I must wait till cruel Rome is crushed. The object must be followed while there's hope : When none remains, I'll bide till peace is won. So in the coming interview with him, Help me, ye gods, to bear an even mien And curb emotion ! i^Enter Hannibal, on his way to the Senate. Katharna addresses him.) Mighty Hannibal, The noble champion of Africa And Carthage ! Though Rome still is unsubdued, It fires my ardent blood to think of all The many glorious triumphs of your wars ! O would that I had been at least a man, To join the march, the bivouac, the fight. Or offer help as humblest of your slaves : To live or die as careless fate might choose. Yet highly favoured in the sacrifice : As trodden mounds are honoured if they bore A chief whose mind controlled winged Victory ! Hannibal. Good woman, yours are worthy words indeed : So speak true patriots ; yet your garb denotes An alien origin ? Katharna. 'Tis true ; I come From Tingis and the Gates of Hercules, 146 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA To ply my trade of telling fortunes here, Attracted by the Carthaginian wealth ; But midst the busy throng I dwell alone : {She falters.) No father's care nor husband's loving arm Protects, sustains, and guides me on my way. {She recovers composure.) Yet if you wish convincing evidence Of my deep knowledge of the darker powers, Know that your feud with Rome, like the forked tongue Of the fierce cobra, bears a double point ! While one is urged by patriotic zeal, The other burns to wreak a dire revenge For private wrongs inflicted on a friend. (Hannibal, who was beginning to move away, starts, turns, and scrutinises her for a mo?nent. ) Hannibal. It may be as you say, for who records The complex workings of his inner mind ? {A pause.) Do you know aught of those of whom you hint ? Katharna. I am not yet allowed to raise the veil That shrouds the future of the one you love. {She pauses : then aside.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA I47 He hazards no denial that his flame Still burns for me ! {Aloud,) But shining through the gloom And fiercely threatening turmoil of the times, With Scipio gathering his troops and fleets To war with Carthage on her native coasts : I see a day appear when once again, Your grasp shall press the hand of her you love. Hannibal {earnestly). Great Melkarth grant it ! Now I must be gone : The Senate waits. {Exit Hannibal.) Katharna. Thank heaven that he is true ! {She sinks on her knees, burying her face in her hands. Curtain?) 148 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Scene VI. Reception-room in Sphax's palace. Enter Massixissa hurriedly^ followed by Sophonisba : he sees the laurel-wreath, Massixissa. A laurel-wreath prepared ! Most courteous ! {He hands the wreath to Sophoxisba, and bends his head down so that she may adjust it : thus he does not observe Jur look of surprise and pain as she complies with his request!) Madam, it happened thus : — The rival host, Led on by Sphax himself, had hurried out To take advantage of my scattered march : Through haste, neglecting search for ambushes ; But I was warned in time by trusty scouts. And met their front with quickly gathered force : Except a chosen legion, which I sent. Concealed by woods, onto the southern side ; Where it rushed forth upon the struggling flank Of the foes, shaken by their fight with me In front, hurling them northwards on the coast ; There from my boats and ships the arrows showered, To slay them fast in spite of helm and shield : Until the fall of Sphax, who sought in vain To rally once again his shattered troops, I HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 49 But died a glorious death and sealed the day, My victory. SoPHONiSBA {weeping). My lord, excuse my grief ; Alas, I mourn the venerable Sphax : Who e'er was tender in his love for me. And chivalrous. Massinissa. If that be so, indeed. Then for your sake, dear lady, I as well Regard his memory with gratitude. And yet you were the prize whose influence Inspired me to this triumph, otherwise I would not have tried fate again so soon. Against a foe of late victorious : For had I failed, my smaller realm was lost By annexation to his territory ; But now his states are mine, this is my home ; I need but your consent, for which I crave. To crown my happiness on such a day : Rewarding my devotion and my love With bright connubial blessings. SoPHONiSBA [in gefitle entreaty). Grant me time, That I may give consideration due 150 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA To such a weighty matter ; and excuse My lack of ready words to thank your grace, Amid the echo of your questioning. Massinissa [iinploringly). Speak now the word that will decide my fate ! [He sinks on his knees before her and extends his hands to receive hers!) SoPHONiSBA [aside), My grief for Sphax would prompt me to decline, But duty bids me win a sword from Rome. [She approaches and places her hand in his.) My lonely weakness yields Massinissa. Thank heaven for that ! Madam, if you consent, that is enough ; I am most joyful. SOPHONISBA. Now I beg of you For courteous delay : from reverence To Sphax's memory. Hannibal and katharna 151 Massinissa. Madam, I agree ; But pardon my impatience when I hope The time may be as short as possible : And deem it a just tribute to your charms That I should wish an early marriage day. {Curtain-) ACT V. Scene I. Before the tent of SciPio, i7i the Roman camp near Carthage j on one side there stands a small stone altar to yupiter. Enter from the tent Scipio. SciPio. That Massinissa is ambitious, young, And fickle, well I know. He shall be plied With specious arguments and promises ; But if they fail or prove to lack in force, Then I will feign the supernatural And win by necromancy, in pretence. {^Enter a Magician from Egypt ^ ushered in by an Officer^ who withdraws.) Magician {sole7nnly). You summoned me in haste, and I am here. Prepared to do your bidding, and command Dark spirits in the earth and ocean deep To war in your behalf, and exercise Strong influence upon the minds of men, Till they believe what you desire. 152 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 53 SCIPIO. Good sir, I readily accept your services, And give you this in earnest of reward ; (SciPio gives him 7?ioney.) Yet fourfold greater shall your guerdon be, If you successfully achieve the task As I require : and guard its secresy ; But save your boast of wielding magic powers To dazzle other minds than Scipio's : {S?niling.) Reserve it for moon-gazers and the like, Who, finding not enough of mystery In the plain order of the universe, Conceive that feeble man can thwart its rules And make its powers obey his wanton will By a mere turn of thought ! But time draws on : Then know that presently, ere twilight falls. There comes a native prince to visit me, Whom I would fain impress by mystic lore To deem me as the chosen of the gods, So that he may adopt my policy. Each time I wish for a portentous sign I will approach and touch this altar-stone ; "Which being as a signal meant for you. While you stand watching, hidden on the hill : Then wield the powers which fiction gives the gods, And burst the rocks above with chemicals, The make of which magicians know full well, Instructed by the wizards of Cathay : 154 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA The sound will echo through the mountain-tops, That all may think Jove thunders in his wrath At what I disapprove. The Magician {smiling). It shall be done As you desire, my lord. SciPio. I can rely Upon your skill and judgment. [Exit Magician. Enter an Officer.) SciPio. Well, what news ? How say the scouts and spies in their reports ? Officer. My lord, they bring no further word as yet, Beyond that first received ; that Hannibal Consolidates his force and bides his time, Making no movement from his vantage ground Under protection of the city walls ; But levying, arming, drilling, day by day. Fresh bands of citizens unused to war. And who would need some years of discipline To make them worthy foemen. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 55 SCTPIO. It is well : I have foreseen this and prepared my plans ; Give orders that we march at break of day To wait the enemy on Zama's plain. Send the Chief Augur to me. Officer. Yes, my lord. {^Exit Officer^ SciPio. Thus, by my challenge, I may tempt him on, So far beyond the shelter of his walls, When he is ready to encounter me. That if I conquer I'll destroy his force ; While if he hesitates to take the gage That, in advancing, I hurl at his feet. His troops will be downcast, and mine inspired. And so my way prepared for victory. {^Enter an Officer ushering in the Chief Augur : the Officer then withdraws^ Augur. I come, my lord, to learn what you command ; Which, be my head the forfeit, shall be done As you direct, 156 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA SCIPIO. To-morrow we move hence To Zama's plains : there offer sacrifice To all the gods, but most to Jupiter ; And having scrutinised the burning flesh, Proclaim yourself enabled to foretell That victory will attend us in the war : This quickly spreading, passed from mouth to mouth, Will raise high confidence amongst the troops, Making our triumph all the more assured ; For faith gives courage and begets the strength To firmly strive to reach the wished-for goal, Till failure withers on its shrunken stalk. And bright success becomes a certain prize. I close in battle with full confidence : My Roman citizens are soldiers born ; And every one of them has volunteered — A system which selects the bold and strong. And those best suited to a martial life. Besides, the offering of his services Makes of a man a hero in his heart. Raising the warrior on a pinnacle. Till emulation, spreading through the land. Fills with ripe courage timid breasts at last. So J know well my gallant men are staunch ; Yet Hannibal no longer leads the Gauls And Spanish troops, who fought in Italy, But a mere rabble hastily equipped. Composed of native Carthaginians : Good merchandisers and not men of war, HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA J 5/ Compelled to join the ranks against their will. Thus cowed by being driven, and made to loathe The warfare which by nature they disliked, And hitherto ingloriously shunned By paying foreigners to fight for them, Until the canker softness so ingrew, Sapping their manliness and energies As dry-rot crumbles e'en the firmest wood. That now it threats to overwhelm their state, Which seeks protection from their palsied arms, And lies defenceless through its sons' decay. So prophesy they fail. Augur. I will, my lord. {Exit Augur, Enter a Roman Officer?) Officer. My lord, King Massinissa has arrived. SciPio. Conduct his Highness now, to me. Officer. Yes, sir. {Exit Officer^ who presently ushers in King Massinissa, and then withdraws.) 158 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA SCIPIO. Ah, Massinissa, you are welcome here ! And I have needed much to speak with you ; Therefore I told my wish by messenger, Which you with courtesy have gratified. Word of your marriage has been brought to me, Which I would fain regard as happy news And see alone in it domestic joys ; But you have wed the daughter of our foe, A Carthaginian general, who fell Not long ago in arms against our power : This saps the root of Roman confidence, A tree that hitherto has sheltered you From the wild storms of Carthaginian ire, Which menace neighbouring countries. Massinissa. She is the gentlest lady in the world, . Without a thought of strife or politics : Domestic joys and cares engross her life ; Her household is her universe. Scipio. Indeed ? It may be so ; or else perhaps you see. As husbands always should, with partial eyes Scipio, HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 59 So pardon bluntness from an older man When he desires your good and speaks for Rome. (SciPio leads Massinissa to the open door of the tent.) Behold within this tent, upon the right, The bright regalia of a sovereign ; And on the left a gentle dove, but high Above it, perched upon a human skull, There flaps and croaks a raven : omen dread. Rome offers you the choice between the sides As symbolised. Massinissa {indignantly). That I forsake my wife ? SciPio. Or forfeit Rome*s support, and lose your throne. Think patiently. Massinissa. But surely Rome will hold Some other pledge of my fidelity : Sparing me this most cruel sacrifice, And claiming my eternal gratitude ? SciPio. Would that I might relax this exigeance ! I must obey the Senate's stern commands. l6o HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA As its true bondsman, though I rule a host : It left no other option. Massinissa. Then, alas ! If that be so I must take time to think : And having well considered all your words. Will send an early answer to you here. Conveying my decision. SciPio {aside). No, indeed ! That has an ugly sound ; for possibly If he returns to ponder on his course Within the influence of his lady's charms. He might despatch the wrong reply to me. {To Massinissa.) The Senate waits your final answer now. Which I must send by special messenger ; But let me warn you that the gods above, Whose will I know by frequent sacrifice. Close studying of omens, books of lore. And converse with those skilled in augury, Regard askance your hesitation shown ; But if you wish for certain proof of this. Such as is seldom granted by the gods Except to chosen, highly-favoured men. Torn by perplexity, proclaim aloud — You disregard the words of Scipio. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA l6l Massinissa [loudly), " I disregard what Scipio advocates ! " (SciPio lays his hand on the altar ^ and a noise as of distant thunder in the hills is heard!) Scipio [solemnly) » The gods are angry : hark to Jove the king ! Massinissa [uneasily^. *Tis ominous indeed, but may be chance : And yet how thunders thus a cloudless sky ? [Aside) I will essay again, but dread the test. [Raising his voice ) ** I disregard the words of Scipio ! '' (Scipio gives the signal^ and again the sound of thunder in the mountains is heard?) Alas ! there is no doubt : no choice remains For me. Scipio. You hear the voice of Jupiter, Raised high in wrath at such perversity ; Praise him for uttering a warning tone, To bid you save your fortune. 1 62 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Massinissa. Scipio, I thank you for your proofs of friendliness ; Although the matter wounds me deep indeed, And seals the mournful doom of one I love ; For ne'er could Massinissa send his wife To roam the world with her unguarded charms, And tempt, like a sweet flower, the hungry bee. {^He weeps ^ I have no heart to commune more with you. {^Exit Massinissa.) Scipio. A sorry business, and unchivalrous. To injure thus a gentle, lovely dame. E'en for the vital interests of Rome. I would the stream had run the other way ! As after victory in the Spanish wars, I rescued my fair prisoners from all harm, Restoring them to friends and relatives. Who thus I gained to fight upon our side. And, by goodwill, retained them firmly bound. With Massinissa it was different : I had no means to win his gratitude And hold him longer than his whim might choose, While stern necessity forbade delay. If I had not persuaded him at last, I would have had him seized within the camp, A hostage for his countrymen's good faith ; HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 63 Or else he might have joined with Hannibal, Instead of fighting side by side with me, As he was pledged to do : but even now 'Tis touch and go, I hold him by a thread ! {Exit SciPio.) Scene II. Reception-room in the palace ^/Massinissa. Sophonisba seated. Enter the Hunchback, Sophonisba. Good sir, I called you, for I'm very dull, Since absent friends have left me long at home ; And Time, which often flies, has closed his wings, To sleep or lag upon his track. The Hunchback. Madam, In truth I willingly would do my best, But judge the ailm'ent difficult to cure ; Although a jester's speech may harbour wit, It is at best a sorry substitute For words that might be whispered by a king. Permit me to send Yahwa to you now : For he has power to draw soft symphonies From the cold metal chords that bind the lyre, To fill the empty air with harmony. 164 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA SOPHONISBA. A good suggestion : do so. {^Exit the Hunchback^ a7id presently enter Yahwa, carrying his guitar!) SOPHONISBA. Yahwa, tune A roundelay for me. Yahwa. Madam, I pray, What subject does your fancy indicate, On which I may compose a melody. With the best prospect that my muse may please ? (SOPHONISBA poitits to a bird in a cage.) SOPHONISBA. Sing of that feathered songster. Yahwa. Willingly. {He sings the following song.) Song of the Caged Bird. [First come eight musical bars of the biras song.) I. I sing to you, fair mistress mine, And, from my playful song. Ne'er would you deem I could repine Or count the hours too long. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 65 * But still my thoughts to forests turn, Where my wild youth was passed ; With verdant fields and limpid burn, Fond memories to the last. {^Here follow eight musical bars of the bird's song,) II. With kindness fed and warmly housed, I pass the tranquil day ; And view the merry throng carouse Or wend their joyous way. But still my thoughts to forests turn, &c. [Here follow eight musical bars of the bird's song.) III. Perchance men envy me my lot Within this cage of gold ; That I'm a prisoner have forgot : Gilt bars, like steel, can hold ! But still my thoughts to forests turn, &c. SOPHONISBA. It is a sweet but melancholy strain : Nor have I thought, with all his flood of song, The captive might regret his woods and fields ; But 'tis not now too late : bring here the cage. And through the window he shall soon be free ! (Yahwa brings the cage : Sophonisba takes it to the window and opens the door of the cage^ but the bird does not try to escape!) 1 66 HAXXIBAL AXD KATHARNA Yahwa. He will not quit so kind a mistress ; see ! And now the little warbler sings again. (Here follow eight musical bars of flu lnrd*s sang.) IV. Were I to seek ray former home, All would be strange and new ; I should regret this gilded dome, And grieve at leaving you I But still my thoughts to forests turn, 6cc. SOPHONISBA. I love the bird, and had it flown away, It would have left a void within my heart ; And yet I gave it liberty to go : Indeed forced ser\ice is a thing less sweet Than duty rendered as afiFection's fruit ; And yet, perhaps, he lightly thinks of me : By the dull force of merest habitude Clings to the present, but regrets the past. No, no ! he gives me proof by staying here. Poor bird : it is not fair to doubt his love. I thank you, Yahwa, for your song : now go, The time is ripe for serious business. {£xil Yahwa : t/ien enter an Officer of the Palace^ Officer. Madam, a messenger has come in haste, To bring you greetings on Camilla's part. HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 6/ She braved the sea, borne in a Punic barque, And landed safely on the neighbouring coast ; From whence she hastens, and will soon arrive To wait upon your Highness. SOPHONISBA. Sir, 'tis well : The lady is most welcome ; make it known That I will greet her here. Officer. Madam, I will. {Exit Officer.) SOPHONISBA. I am delighted at her quick return ; She is a valued friend at any time. And doubly so amid my loneliness. [A pause.) No news as yet from Massinissa's camp Since he was summoned to meet Scipio. {A pause : then pettishly.) It is not like his use of gallantry, As frequently he would send messengers. Bearing no news, but compliments of love. And seeking favours of remembrances. I dread such long-continued absences ; For Sphax, who issued in full confidence, Could meet his doom in such a little space ; Then, if ill-fortune might accumulate. {A pause. ) 1 68 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Till every day should hatch a viper-brood Of death, disease, mishaps, and penalties, Such cruel reckonings would crush me soon. {A pause.) How gallantly the aged warrior Bore his bold chieftainship that fatal day, And dreamed of triumph in his kingly halls The gods forbade he should enjoy again. Wise is the providence that hides our fate. And leaves to every one the boon of hope ! {Enter Parihu.) Parihu. Your Highness, now a messenger has come. Sent by King Massinissa hurriedly ; He begs an early audience of your Grace In order to explain his master's wish, And learn your answer to the King's request. SoPHONiSBA {dubiously). What is the purport of the messages ? Parihu. As yet I have not gleaned a single word : For, madam, this strange man is reticent ; Of sour and sombre mien, all clothed in black, Like a dark priest of Moloch on the days Of human sacrifice ; it seems to me The mournful garb enshrouds a gloomier wight ! HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 69 SOPHONISBA. Admit him, and his errand shall be known Without delay. {Exit Parihu, who returns with the Messenger^ and then ivithdraws to a little distance. The Messenger approaches Sophonisba and bends low before her ; he then stands erect and sile?it, waiting for her to speak, and holding in his hand a small casket.) Sophonisba. What tidings from my liege ? Messenger. Your Highness, if I had my earnest wish, I would have shunned this painful embassy ; Though proud to render humble services In any way. Sophonisba {anxiously) . Say quickly how it lies ? Messenger. Great Scipio has quarrelled with the King, Because he wed the daughter of a foe, Linking himself with enemies of Rome. 170 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA SOPHONISBA. But surely, when 'tis known that I avoid The stormy ocean men call politics, And only seek to give my husband peace, Then Rome could not behold offence in me ? Messenger. I would it were so, madam ; but, alas, Scipio has spoken ! SoPHONiSBA (proudly). Pray remember, sir. Here Massinissa rules, not Scipio ! Messenger. Madam, the King has sent a lethal cup, i^He takes a metal cup out of the case which he is holdings and unscrews the lid.) And bids you drink it for the country's sake ; (SoPHONiSBA buries her face in her hands with a gesture of despair!) Which soon must perish, left without allies. Under the iron heel of Punic might, Or else be seized by Rome victorious. He bids a sad farewell, and prays you act With the high courage of your warrior race ; Worthy of them, and worthy of yourself — Wife of two kings of Africa ! HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA IJTI (SoPHONiSBA recovers herself J she makes a gesture to the Messenger to withdraw a little^ and he retires to the background^ where he stands with his black cloth head-dress^ which is bound rou7id his heady drawn across his face so as almost to conceal it entirely, except the eyes.) SoPHONiSBA (aside). Alas! Doomed by my husband, why then longer live When all that made life happy has decayed ? I might escape ; but who would rescue me From being captured and brought back again ? Of all my kin, alone my mother lives : But she is old and powerless to protect. (Parihu respectfully approaches Sophonisba.) Parihu. Your Highness, pardon me as one of years Spent in the faithful service of King Sphax, Whose spirit prompts me now to offer you Such counsel as may lie within my power, To meet the troubles that assail your Grace ; And stand revealed, in spite of all disguise. To one who has seen many a turn of fate In good or evil fortune. Sophonisba. Parihu, I thank you most sincerely for your words, 1/2 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA But I cannot disclose the evil news Which suddenly has overwhelmed me. Parihu. No: I would not press you to declare the cause, As you desire to guard its secresy ; But if by chance you should have need of me — Believe it no mere vaunting when I say — My arm though old has not quite lost its power To wield the sword it bore in many a fight ; Nor have I yet forgot the art of war ; And if your Highness were in danger now, Whoever he might be that threatens you. Speak but one word and all the realm shall rise And guard your safety with its dearest blood ; Even to place you on a single throne, And conquer freedom for our state again, So lately lost when Sphax's power succumbed Through over-confidence. SOPHONISBA. Excuse me, sir : I'm somewhat hard of hearing, and my ear Does not record your words. You may withdraw. {Exit Parihu, after bowing. Sophonisba soliloquises.) His duty or ambition bade him give Desperate advice in desperate circumstance ; HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 73 But I will never plunge the realm in blood And bring upon it miseries untold ; Nor would I quit the honourable path That I have strictly followed through my life, And seek salvation in rebellion. My husband bids me immolate myself, To save our subjects from the injury Wrought by my marriage, unawares to me, Which tempts the Romans to abandon them To suffer servitude, rapine, and death ; And I alone have power to rescue them. Both wifely instinct prompts me to obey. And queenly duty bids the sacrifice : My father's blood, which thrills through all my veins. Impels and nerves me to the noble deed ! {A pause.) Shall I await Camilla's coming? No : For she might shake my rightly-formed resolve. What parting message shall I send the King ? {She draws herself to her full height^ and^ turnings addresses the Messenger?) Bring here the cup, and tell my lord the King That when I drained it thus I spoke of him : — My death seems to be following somewhat close Upon my wedding to his majesty ! {The Messenger^ who has approached^ hands her the cup : she drinks a7id dies. Exit the Messefiger, Prese7itly e7iter an Officer conducting Katharna ; the Officer hurries to the prostrate form of SOPHONISBA.) 1/4 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Officer. Alas, the Queen ! Katharna. What new catastrophe ? Officer. She's dead ! I'll call for help. {^Exit Officer^ hurriedly^ Katharna. Ill-fated day When first I urged her on to wed with Sphax And quit her peaceful Carthaginian home ! (^ pause. ) Alas, alas, she's gone ! My friend, who bore The fairest face : the gentlest, truest heart. That ever warmed for me and was unchanged. (Katharna weeps. Re-enter the Officer with the Messe?iger of the King. ) Officer. This man was latest with her majesty. And gained an audience as a messenger Sent by King Massinissa. Katharna {to the Messe^iger). Sir, explain : What know you of our lady's death ? HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA l/S Messenger. Madam, The King commissioned me to bring her doom Within this cup ; and she drank willingly : His marriage caused mistrust of him at Rome, And as he had wed a Carthaginian dame Within whose veins there flowed a warrior's blood. Here is my warrant and the royal seal. {^He draws from his bosom a parchment : unfolds and holds it, offering it for the inspection of Katharna and the Officer; the latter takes it ^ and scrutinises it with signs of astonishine7it. The Officer and Messenger withdraw to one side, and appear to discuss the docwnent for a moment or two ; the Officer then hurries out as if to call assistance, and the Messenger follows him slowly?^ Katharna {^soliloquises). Alas ! that all the vines I plant with care Are killed by failure's cold and blackening frost. Before they bear the fruit, yielding the wine To slake my thirst for vengeance on fell Rome ! But this was one of fortune's cruellest blows ; For look beneath the surface of events. And note how narrow was the turning-point Where Sophonisba chose between the two : Whether to die or triumph after all. She might have saved herself and won the day. HAXXIBAL AXD KATHARNA Holding the country for the Punic cause ; Freeing it rightly from a miscreant. Who by his treacher)' and cowardice Had proved unworthy of his throne and her ; Although it needed desperate device, And recklessness to human suflFering, To win the country in such threatening straits ; No less than to rebel and raise the torch, Setting this peaceful kingdom in a blaze : Bringing the misery of civil war Upon a country that she died to save. The plan would not occur to one so kind, Or, coming to the mind, be cast aside ; And yet it promised richly for success : The state was ready for the smallest spark To fire the train its recent conquest laid ; And all within it longed to burst the chains That Massinissa had so lately bound. Making the great the captive of the small. Ah ! if I had arrived but yesterday, And not a day too late, it had been done ! But grief is useless and a waste of time : Yet, to atone for Sophonisba's blood — Alas ! I fear it is beyond my power, And must be left to time and Nemesis. But I have business calling me away : No dainty dallying with needlework, Or tuning softly to a passing whim Upon the blithe guitar that once I loved. {S/i^ speaks faster, from exdtemeni.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 77 At least I scorn to send my friends to death And hide myself in base security ; The fateful battle still impends between The hosts of Hannibal and Scipio : (^Raising her voice, from enthusiastic excitement^ There will I hie ; and on my Roman foe, E*en with a woman's hand, will draw the bow ! ^She raises her hand in the air, a?id rushes out. Curtain. ) Scene III. A grove upon the plain of Zama, midway betwee?t the Roman and Carthaginian camp. Enter Hannibal and Gisco. Hannibal. It would have proved a wiser plan for us Had I remained to fight in Italy, Allowing Scipio to waste his strength Against our massive walls, behind whose crest The citizens, unwarlike and unskilled. Would have been better suited to defence Than in the open against well-trained troops : But Carthage ordered, and I have obeyed. Now if I can postpone the battle hour. Gaining more time in which to drill the men, It would be in our favour ; so I sought 178 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA This interview, in which to try my power : AMiether I may cajole or bribe the foe, To yield part of the vantage that he holds Through being ready earlier than we. But here is Scipio — (Enter Scipio, attended ty an Officer.) Welcome, general ; Renowned for courteous enlightenment ! Scipio. I greet you, Hannibal, of world-wide fame For martial deeds. Hanmbal. Shall we converse alone ? Scipio. If you prefer it. Haxxibal. Certainly I do : Go, Gisco, to my escort ; bid it wait Upon the border of the wood. Gisco. Yes, sir. {Exit Gisco.) HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 79 SciPio {to his Officer), Pray join the guard : I will return alone, After this meeting. Roman Officer. Yes, your Excellency. {^Exit Officer^ Hannibal. I am a man whose trade is war, not words, So pardon my simplicity of speech. Here stand our mighty nations face to face : Why should two lions fight, not share the spoil ? Let us divide the world between our powers. But live henceforth in peace and amity. We recognise your sovereignty in Spain, Sardinia, Sicily, and Italy : The rest remains for us beyond your sphere Of action. SciPio. Sir, I have no power to treat, Much less conclude, a compact which requires The Senate's seal. Hannibal. Then send a messenger, Reporting the fair offers which I make, And asking a decision. l8o HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA SCIPIO. No, my lord ; It would need time, and in the interim Your skilful preparations march apace. And your untrained recruits might learn their trade. Hannibal. What matters that, if the result be peace ? You benefit your country and my own, Stirring with patriotic gratitude The heart of one who lives to serve her cause : In recognising this, name but the gift. For I possess the power to richly grant. So if your wishes lie within its range. To ask is to receive. SciPio {turning away). Enough, enough ! For honour bids me to decline at once, {A pause.) Though I perforce must pardon you the words : Knowing your stress of patriotic zeal And dire necessity. Hannibal. I thank you, sir, For your forbearance ; I meant no ofiFence. Think well of our alliance while there's time, HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA l8l And what you risk if you encounter us ; My troops will fight like furies, for they guard Their city, families, their fame and wealth. SciPio. We have discussed the matter fully, sir. Hannibal. Can you propose more fitting terms ? SciPio. My lord, I know the warlike skill of Hannibal, But Carthaginians are unused to arms : There are no means by which we could agree. Hannibal (impatiently). Time presses, sir ; adieu ! SciPio {coldly). My lord, adieu ! ^^Exit Hannibal.) SciPio. Hear everything — say little as may be ; That is the plan for generals in the field. Although he did not learn much from my words, He told me nothing that I did not know. {^Exit SciPio.) 1 82 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Scene IV. The public gardens at Carthage, Enter Hercta, followed by Muthumbal. Hercta. Come quickly, dearest ! Muthumbal ^playfully). It is easy said ; But I am not so light and fleet of foot As in old days when I ran after you, A happy youth in Spain. Hercta. Well, well, my dear, 'Tis an advantage surely that you wed With a young wife, who fills you with new life ! Muthumbal. Then she returns my constant compliments. Hercta. I would 'twere possible I could enjoy This happiness without uneasiness For my dear mistress ; but at last there comes Katharna*s messenger ! HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 83 MUTHUMBAL. I hope he brings Good news this time. {Enter a Messenger?) Messenger {to Hercta). Madam, well met indeed ! I come from Dame Katharna with her love And kindly greetings, besides messages : That on Queen Sophonisba's sudden death She journeyed forth to join the Punic host About to close in fight with Scipio. If victory crown its efforts, then all's well, And she will soon return, meeting you here. To dwell in Carthage. Hercta. But where will she go In case defeat should overtake our troops, Which may the gods forbid ! Messenger. She did not say. In that event, how she would save herself : Katharna spoke the few and simple words That I have mentioned. Now I must return To join my lady on the battlefield. 1 84 HAXNIBAL AND KATHARNA She follows near the archers of the guard ; In her magician's dress remains unknown, Unhindered, and unhelped. Hercta. I'll go with you, If, dear Muthumbal, you will give me leave. I might be useful to my lady there, And even yet persuade her to return Here, safe within these walls. Messenger. Consider well : 'Tis a rough journey for a woman, though. And dangers of worst kinds beset the path Of her who wanders near a battlefield, \Miere fate decides which way the tide shall flow That may engulf her in its struggling waves : So pause ere you adventure. Kercta. Thank you, sir. For all your information and ad\'ice ; I heed no risk. Muthumbal, may I go ? Muthumbal. I will not Otter any obstacle To what you wish to do in faithfulness ; HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 85 But rather will myself accompany you, So that you may not lack ready defence In case of difficulty. Hercta. Then you earn My deepest gratitude. Messenger. Let it be so ; If you have both determined, we will start After the shortest possible delay. Thus we may reach the Carthaginian host To-morrow evening ere the sun be set : Though before then the battle may be fought For which the armies gathered on the plains Of Zama. Hercta. Sir, we cannot go too soon. My preparations will be quickly made ; And yours, Muthumbal ? MUTHUMBAL. All within an hour. {Exeunt,) 1 86 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Scene V. A road leading from the field of Zama towards Carthage : immediately after the battle^ arid overthrow of the Carthaginiaiis. Enter Katharna, wounded^ fro??i the battlefield. She wears her magician s dress ^ and carries a bow in her hand^ with a quiver of arrows slung over her shoulder. Katharna. Like a spent arrow I have sped my course. {^She staggers and sinks upon the ground in a swoon Enter Hannibal and QrV^zo fro7n the battlefield,) Hannibal. Our walls must answer for the victory now ; As Scipio failed to capture Utica, So Carthage must resist and may escape. Then word has come from bold Antiochus That he collects his troops to lend us aid. But who lies here ? a female warrior So sorely wounded in our country's cause 1 {He approaches Katharna.) It seems this flow of blood foretells her doom. I now recall that we met recently, As I was passing to the Senate-house, And I was influenced by her eloquence. Her sayings blazed with patriotic fire HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 8/ When she expressed her hopes of victory For Carthage, Afric's champion against Rome. And though the well-mouthed solemn babblings Of augurs, wizards, witches, all the crew, Move me but little by their drolleries. She hinted matters which impressed my mind With a vague feeling that she knew far more Than what she said : unlike the rest of them, Who blab on hazard more than they can know. And further, it appeared her voice and mien Recalled the past to me — as some old tune Revives the memories of the days gone by. {^A pause.) But duty bids that we should hurry on. Nor lose the precious moments longer. (Hannibal is about to turn away when he observes and recognises the ring on KATHARNA'syf;i!^^r.) Hannibal (starting forwara). Ha! .My ring ! Katharna ! what a dreadful fate ! {Asiiie.) Oh, cruel Gavius, had you ne'er been born ! How different had all been but for your crime ! (Katharna ope?ts her eyes a?id gazes at Hannibal.) Katharna. O Hannibal, my only love ! Alas ! {^She smiles faintly,) My evening star that heralds coming night. 1 88 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Hannibal {^passionately). Would I might die, and so remain with you ! i^A pause, ) The sacred cause of Carthage claims of me That I must live and serve it. Tell me, love. Why did you not make yourself known to me So lately in the garden where we met ? For then I could have shielded you from harm, And still before us now there might have beamed A bright and constant ray of happiness. Cheering us on our road, howe'er beset : But now the evil work is done ! Katharna. Forgive, Forgive me, Hannibal ! Indeed I feared Our love would rise like some wild stream in flood. Sweeping before it every obstacle, Engulfing in oblivion all our cares And our stern duties in the present war. (^A pause!) Fast ebbing strength forbids me to disclose More of my life since first I quitted Spain ; And yet a word will tell its chief success. My influence sent Hasdrubal to your aid ; I ever sought your interests, be assured. When I am gone, seek faithful Hercta's help At her new home within the city's bounds ; She wed Muthumbal, scribe to Malchus, there, HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA 1 89 And will explain to you my works and ends, My wanderings, and efforts in the cause ; But for this wound I would still serve it more, And even yet, perhaps i^She partly raises herself^ but sinks back exhausted^ and after a pause resumes faintly?) No, no — too late. (^ pause after which she continues : raising her hand towards the sky, and following its direction intently ivith her gaze ^ Father, accept the offerings that I bring. (Hannibal and Gisco respectfully withdraw a little, and Hannibal turns partly away to conceal his grief. Katharna continues^ Though Rome may rue the deeds of Gavius, Enough of Roman blood has not been shed To soothe your manes and give your spirit rest : Take mine ! Take mine ! {Raising herself a little, she tears open her wound ^ Gisco {springing forward to prevent her). Stop ! stop ! Hannibal {turning towards them). 'Tis done ! ifett 190 HANNIBAL AND KATHARNA Katharna {sinking dow7i). Take mine ! (Hannibal hastens to her and finds her dead. Enter Hercta, Muthumbal, and the Messenger. Hercta hurries to Katharna.) Hannibal, Truly a deity in a woman's form. Empires might draw life from her sunny smiles ; Whole nations reeled, thrones tottered at her frown ! {Curtain^ THE END.