V 
 
 \^-''^'}>\^- 
 
 
XETTA, THE VIVANDIERE, 
 
 OR, THE 
 
 HISTOICAI MillTAM DRAMA 
 
 AND 
 
 WITH ACCOMPANYING TABLEAUX, 
 
 Itespectfully dedicated 
 
 •HAND «^KMY OF THE ^EPUBLXG, 
 
 TAMAQUA, PA. 
 
 Saturday Courier, Book and Job Ofpicb. 
 1871. 
 
Mr. Fairfox, — 1st. Dressing-gown and slippers.. 
 2d, i^eat dark suit. 
 3d, Fine black suit. 
 4th, The same. 
 
 $th, Dressing-gown and slippers. 
 Wi f. so >r Fairfax — 1st, Fine black coat and pants, and 
 light vest. 
 2Dd, Private's uniform, U. S. A. 
 Srd, Colonel's Uniform U. S. A. 
 Wat^teu Fairfax. — ist, Fine black coat and pants and 
 white Marseilles vest. 
 ' 2nd, Major's Uniform C S. A. 
 
 3rd, Uniform of 2nd Lieut. U. S. A 
 Percy Kandox,ph — 1st, Fine black suit. 
 
 2nd, Captain's Uniform U. S. A. 
 3rd, Major's Uniform U. S, A. 
 Wh/IAE Faib,fax. — 1st, Fashionable boy's suit. 
 ■" 2nd, Private's Uniform U. S. A. 
 
 Pres't L(rsrcoi.N, — Fine black suiL 
 FKEs'Tof C. M.— Uniform of Brig. Gen. U. 8. A. 
 NETT.^.~ist, Fine walking suit. 
 
 2nd, Vivandiere costume. 
 3rd, Elegantly dressed. 
 Mk„s. Fairfax. — 1st, Eeaatiful breakfast toilet. 
 2nd, Parlor costume. 
 3rd, The same costume, but other dref*seis. 
 Hattje Fairfax. — The same costume as Mrs. F. but 
 
 different dresses. 
 FaT. — ^Poorly fitting private's uniform throughout. 
 "Pomp, — ^i.st. Servant. 
 
 2nd,Ca&t-off officer's coat, private's pants. 
 3rd, Neat suit. 
 Officers, — Uniforms appropriate to their rank, 
 Soi.i>iKRS. — Uniforms of each army. 
 
Netta, the Vivaiidiere 
 
 ACT I.— ScFNP I. 
 
 Iritenor of Fairfax Mansion. Mr. Fairfax, Mrs Fairfax, Wil- 
 -^oit, Walter, Mattie, Willie and Percy Randolph discovered. 
 
 Mrs. Fairfax. — Come, father, you gentlemen have talked 
 quite long enough. Breakfast has been waiting sometime, 
 and if we don't partake of it soon, it will assume the char- 
 acter of a luncli. 
 
 Mr. Fairfax. — True. Come, gentlemen, we must not al- 
 low the discussion of every day matters to deprive us of the 
 repast prepared for us. Wilson, you must endeavor to make 
 your friend, Mr. Randolph, feel more at home. 
 
 Percy Randolph. — I f«el perfectly so already, Mr. Fair- 
 fex. The freedom from restraint, which one feels after be- 
 ing released from college and coming to such a pleasant 
 place as your beautiful villa with his college mates, should 
 aaake any one feel at home, but from some cause or other, I 
 feel this morning as if I had been having the "blues" for a 
 week. 
 
 Wilson F. — We'll soon drive them away. What say you, 
 Walt, to takisg your hounds out this morning and having a 
 iiunt, to drive away those gloomy thoughts of Percy's ? Will 
 you go ? 
 
 Walter F — Certainly. Do you suppose I could stay iu 
 the house these fine days while there is plenty of game in the 
 woods worth shooting ? (Servant admits boy with dispatch.) 
 
 Boy. — I was ordered to deliver this to you as soon as pos- 
 ajble, as it contains news of importance. Good-day, sir. 
 
 Mr. F. — Good-day. (Exit boy, followed by servant. Mr. 
 F. reads dispatch and becomes excited.) The scoundrel and 
 double-dyed traitor ! Does he think, that because he and his 
 miserable accomplices have proved false to the government, 
 that I will do so too ? 
 
 Wilson F. — Father, sit down, and tell us what there is iu 
 that dispatch, that excites you so much, and called forth such 
 bitter words as you just now uttered. Who talks of treason 
 t© our flag ? 
 
 Mr. F. — The Governor of our State, aided by the Legisla- 
 fciare. Listen, and I will read you his dispatch. He writes : 
 ''The Legislature, t/>-day, received the address of South Car- 
 
6' 
 
 oiina to her sister States in reference to the subject of Seces- 
 sion. It contained the following noble utterances : 'The peo- 
 ple i>f the non-slaveholding States are not, and cannot be, fit 
 associates of the slaveholding States under a comraon gov- 
 ernment. South Carolina, acting in her sovereign capacity,, 
 has resolved to secede from the old Union. Citizens of the 
 iilaveholding States of the United States :r-Destiny ha» 
 placed us in the van of the great controversy between the 
 North and South. The same power lias cast our lot with 
 yours by extending over us an identity of pursuits, interests,, 
 and institutions. South Carolina desires no destiny separate 
 from yours. She asks you to aid her in establishing a con- 
 federacy with an area larger than any power in Europe pos- 
 -sesses, and whose court shall rival in brilliancy and influ- 
 ence, the proudest of the Old World governments. She has 
 severed the ties that made her one of the "Old Thirteen," 
 and asks you to assist her in forming a new union which will 
 surpass the old in everything." Virginia has followed the 
 example of South Carolina and has also seceded from the 
 old Union. You will therefore, in your official capacity as 
 Mayor of Wheeling, take possession of the Custom House^ 
 Post Office, all public buildings and documents, and hold the 
 same in the name of Virginia. Waste no time in complying^ 
 with these instructions, and telegraph the result, as all noW 
 depends upon the celerity with which we move." Thi» iW 
 -signed by the Governor. 
 
 Walter F. — Well, father, what answer will you make the 
 Governor ? You will, of course, comply with his instruc- 
 tions ? ' 
 
 Mr. F. — Walter, I am surprised that you should so mis- 
 judge me. I will not comply with his instructions, but shall 
 take possession of and hold the same in the name of the Unit- 
 ed States, to whom they belong. 
 
 Walter F. — Father, you certainly cannot mean what yon 
 say? You will not thus prove recreant to your State, when 
 she most needs the help of all her sons ? 
 
 Mr. F. — I deny the right of any one, or any rrunaber of th© 
 States composing this Union, to separate themselves from it, 
 without the consent of all ; consequently, I deny the riglrt 
 of any state to seize the public property containetl therein ; 
 and now, sir, I demand an .explanation of the words just ut- 
 tered by you. 
 
 Walter F. — Which you shall have. New questions ar«' 
 involved in this issue The North having elected a seetioii- 
 al President, whose every public utterance declares in favOr 
 of the abolition of slavery, the South, to her eternal glory bfe 
 
it'said, has thrown off the galling yoke, and resolved to owrtnb 
 sisterhood with the craven North. Sdath Carolina, the home 
 oif the honored Calhoun, has thrown down the gauntlet, and 
 has been followed by "The Mother of President?/' onr owYi 
 noble Virginia. Others will follow, and asserting their inde- 
 pendence, will form a new and powerful confederacy. You 
 faiay acquiesce in this revolution, and acknowledge the inde- 
 pendence of this new confederation, or you can make war 
 npon the seceding States, and attempt to force them into an 
 alliance they abhor. If the latter, yon will find that we will 
 fight until the last man in the South dies, for we will never 
 be defeated while we can resist the oppression of the craven 
 North. Father, yon, who have lived so long in the South, 
 should have better judged her people. Can you think she 
 would quietly submit to be ruthlessly robbed of her glory, by 
 submitting to be ruled by an illiterate, rail splitting booj-, 
 such as Lincoln is ? No, sir, the South has a higher destiny 
 than that, and the time will come when you will regret hav- 
 ing dishonored your country, should you now espouse the 
 cause of the North, but I do noi think you will be so base as 
 to turn renegade at this moment, and I hope to see you and 
 all here joining ns in the struggle for our liberty. How feels 
 my brother and his friend on this subject ? 
 
 Wilson F. — I am astonished, sir, and regret that I have a 
 brother who can turn traitor to his country and her flag. 
 But let me warn you, sir, that this step, once taken, can nev- 
 er be retraced, and all the fearful consequences that must 
 surely follow, will rest with crushing weight upon yon 
 and your confederates for all coming time. When an out- 
 raged government has desolated our lovely South, when 
 our fair country has been swept with fire and bloodshed, and 
 all the horrors of war are upon us, who will be held respon- 
 sible for the ruin ? Pause, I entreat you, and consider for a 
 moment the rash act you are; about to commit. What right 
 has the North assailed ? What interest of the South has 
 been invaded ? What claim, founded on right and justicCj 
 has been withheld ? Can you refer to one act of wrong delib- 
 erately planned and executed by the government, of which 
 the South has any right to complain ? Then why this mad 
 attempt to overthrow the government ; and erect upon its 
 ruins, one so much its inferior, that evea your own con- 
 science must condemn the act ? Merely to gratify the desire 
 and ambition of a few worn out and disappointed political 
 tricksters, who mean to further their own schemes, no mat- 
 teit* att what cost of blood and treasure. Now, sir, to under- 
 take to overthrow th6 gOvernrtvent under which you have 
 
8 
 
 grown to be what you are, which has protected you in every 
 thing and under which you possess privileges which are de- 
 nied to the subjects of every other government in God's wide 
 domain, seems to me the height of madness, folly and crime, 
 and to which I will neither lend my aid or countenance, and 
 It think my friend Eandolph is as loyal as I am. 
 
 Percy Eandolph,— You are right, Wilson. I have been 
 reared in South Carolina, and love her and her institutions, 
 but towering above this love of State, rises the love of my 
 country. I consider it the highest privilege, (outside of the 
 gospel,) to be a citizen of the government which has never 
 yet been humbled by either foreign or domestic foe. My 
 relatives are all in the South, but if they espouse the cause 
 of treason, and opportunity presents, I would strike them 
 down as quickly as those not endeared to me by the 
 fondest of human ties. I claim no friendship with traitors. 
 While enemies trail our standard in the dust, we must fight, 
 hut let me tell you the light will be bitter and long. I know 
 the courage of these men, for I have lived among them. 
 They will fight with a determination and power almost un- 
 «..onquerable, but we must endure all for our country, and her 
 honor. No, Walter Fairfax, I reject your proposal with con- 
 tempt. I can not countenance the formation of a new govern- 
 ment out of any part of the old, nor can all the wealth, honor 
 or titles which your embryo government create, seduce me 
 from my allegiance to the Stars and Stripes, and I hope that 
 reflection may lead you to see the error you have fallen into, 
 ere it be to late, 
 
 Mr. F. — Noble young man, I had feared that, coming ;>,s 
 you do from South Carolina, you would join the Secessionists 
 in their wild scheme of madness, but the sentiments just ex- 
 pressed by you prove me to have mistaken your character. As 
 to you, sir, {To Walter) I have but little to say. I am griev- 
 ed to learn that I have raised a son to disgrace me hy turn - 
 ing traitor to his country. Were I to act as my feeling.s 
 prompt me to, I would strike you to the earth and pray 
 Heaven to deprive you of the life you have so shamefully 
 debased, but, if you persist in this mad course, I will disown 
 you, and drive you from my house as I would the vilest crim- 
 inal that walks the earth. You can go, sir, and when once 
 you have left this house, look upon me as a stranger, for ;vs 
 such I shall regard you until you renounce the cause of trea- 
 son, and return to your allegiance to your country. 
 
 Walter F. — Enough, father. I have linked my fortune 
 with the Sunny South, and no fear of parental censure shall 
 alter ray determination to do all in my power for thesuccesn 
 
of what you term a wild, mad schejiie, but Vv-hich seems to me 
 to be the grandest undertaking of the nineteenth century. 
 
 Hattie Fairfax. — Bi'other, do not be so hasty. TJiink of 
 the sorrow and dif^grace this step will bring upon us. Do 
 take back your words, if not for my sake, do it for ffiother's? 
 
 V/alter F. — No, Hattie, were an angel to plead with me to 
 do so, I would not. Our people have been degraded long 
 enough, but have at last been aroused to see their danger, 
 and have hurled defiance to the Vandal North, and though 
 my actions sever every tie, yet will I remain true to the South. 
 
 Mr. F. — Now, sir, depart; and never cross yonder thresh- 
 old again, until you retract the foul utterances that have this 
 morning disgraced your manhood. {Exit Walter, L. 2E.). 
 
 Mrs. F. — Husband, what have you done? Oh! surely you 
 are not in earnest ? 
 
 Mr. F. — Mother, I am. I love my son, but his conduct 
 this morning has annihilated my affection for him. When 
 he returns to his allegiance, and acknowledges his error, I 
 will receive him with open arms, but until then, I do not 
 wish his name to be uttered in my presence. {Curtain.) 
 
 SCENE II.— Act i. 
 
 Landscape. — Erder Walter and Willie Fairfax, M. 1 E. 
 
 Willie F. — Walter, I want to know whether you really 
 mean to do as you said you would in the house, a little 
 while ago. 
 
 Walter F. — You heard my answer there, and I have no 
 intention of altering it now. Will you not go with me ? Your 
 aid will be of much service to the South before the end of 
 the struggle. Percy Randolph was right, when he said we 
 would fight hard and long. The North will fight fiercely too 
 for a time, but when the first few months excitement is past, 
 they will abandon the struggle, and yield to the men of the 
 South the privileges which by birth and education belong 
 to them. Then, those who lend their aid to the South in this 
 the darkest hour of her peril, will be overwhelmed in disgrace, 
 and lost in oblivion. Will you unite with us in this glori- 
 ous cause, or be one of those who are false to the South ? 
 
 Willie F.,— Walter, though my aid be but small, yet little 
 as it is, it shall be exerted to maintain, undivided, this grand 
 old Union, [Enter Wilson F. and Percy E., JR. 1 E.) for not 
 one act would I willingly commit, which would help to di- 
 vide it. No, sir, I honor my father too raueh, to act in the 
 manner you propose. 
 
10 
 
 Wilson F. — Spoken like my own loyal brother. Percy, is 
 it not a pleasure to hear such expressions of loyalty from one 
 m voung? 
 
 Percv R. — It is truly so. Walter, if your inclinations lead 
 you to turn traitor, vou should at least have honor enough 
 left not to influence your youngest brother to do the same. 
 Your conduct in thus joining yourself to this conspiracy, is 
 dishonorable in the extreme, and when you have reflected — 
 
 Walter F. — Randolph, talk no more of reflection. Sir, 
 this is not the act of a moment, but one of mature delibera- 
 tion, and I have no fear of the result, but I am surprised 
 that you, an educated South Carolinian, should thus turn ren- 
 egade to the South, but, sir, the day will come when you will 
 regret having done so. In the meantime, allow me to bid 
 you farewell. {Exit L. 1 E.) 
 
 Percy R. — Well, he has gone, Wilson, but I am convinced 
 that we will y.et see him on the right side. A mind, like 
 that possessed by Walter, strenghtened by the teachings of a 
 man as loyal as your father, can not forever remain blinded 
 to the error he has committed. He is now led away by ^Ider 
 rebels, but when his mind asserts its supremacy, he will re- 
 turn to his allegiance. But let us hasten to the Custona 
 House, for our assistance may be needed, as your father has 
 gone there to carry out his determination as expressed this 
 morning after reading the Governor's dispatch. [Exit L. 1 E.) 
 
 SCENE III.— Act i. 
 
 Oitstom Hrrme, Wheeling, Virginia, Mr. Fairfax discovered, 
 
 Mr.Fairfax. — (Solus.) I have thrown down the gauntlet 
 in refusing to co-operate with Gov. Letcher in his treason, 
 and no donbt he will send an armed force here to take pos- 
 session of the public property, but it shall not be surrendered 
 without an efibrt to defend it. Ah ! Troops have already 
 arrived, yet it is scarce six hours since my reply was sent to 
 him. [Enter squad of soldiers, L. 2 E. under command of <c 
 Captain.) Your business here, sir? 
 
 Captain. — I have been ordered by Gov. Letcher to take 
 }>ossession of this building, and all other public property, in 
 the name of the Southern Confederacy. 
 
 Mr. F.— Return to Gov. Letcher, and tell him that I re- 
 fused to yield to his demand, and that I intend to defend this 
 property as long as possible. {Enter Wilson F., Percy R., 
 and a mmiber of other men, R. 2 E.) 
 
 Captain. — Sir, I do not wish to resort to force, but I must 
 
11 
 
 and will carry out my instructions even if in so doing, I must 
 Use violence. 
 
 Wilson F. — Sir, let me tell you that you will have to mea- 
 sure your strength with ours, and your own good sense will 
 tell you that your command is not strong enough to succeed 
 in the undertaking. 
 
 Capt. — If all here are truly loyal, there is no necessity for 
 the experiment, for the property could not be in better hands 
 than at present. My previous action has only been a 
 ruse to determine which side of this struggle between the 
 North and South you were in favor of. We are only a por- 
 tion of the army sent here for yonr protection. {Martial mn- 
 dc heard.) Here comes the rest of our troops. {Enter Gen. 
 Lander with Staff, L. 1 E.) 
 
 Gen. Lander. — I have been sent here, by Gen. McClellan, 
 to aid you in protecting your lives and property. The Gen- 
 eral ordered me to deliver this paper to you with the request 
 that you would read it to your people, and these men whom 
 I have here. 
 
 Mr. F. — I will do so with pleasure. {Eeads.) "To the 
 patriotic citizens of West Virginia: — Armed traitors have 
 in vain endeavored to deter you from expressing your loyal- 
 ty at the polls. Having failed in this infamous attempt to 
 deprive you of the exercise of your dearest rights, they now 
 seek to inaugurate a reign of terror, and thus force you to 
 yield to their schemes, and submit to the yoke of that trai- 
 torous conspiracy, dignified by the name of the Southern 
 Confederacy. The government has abstained from the mov- 
 ing of any troops toward your region, until after the elec- 
 tion, that they might not even appear to have hindered its 
 freedom ; but as you by your votes been proved yourselves 
 true and loyal, I have ordered troops to cross the river. 
 They come as friends and brothers ; as enemies only to armed 
 rebels, who are preying upon you. Your homes, your fami- 
 lies and your property are all safe under our protection. 
 Notwithstanding all that has been said by traitors, to induce 
 you to believe that our advent among you will be signalized 
 by an interference with your slaves, understand one thing 
 clearly ; not only will we abstain from all such interference, 
 but we will, on the contrary, with an iron hand, crush any 
 attempt at insurrection on their part."" 
 
 Gen. Lander — Soldiers, you have heard the assurances of 
 our General to these people. You are here to protect the 
 lives »and liberties of our brothers, threatened by a traitorous 
 and rebellious foe. Bear in mind that you are in the coun- 
 try of friends, — not of foes, — that you are here to protect, not 
 
1^ 
 
 to destroy. Sernember that the word of our G-eaeral is 
 pledged to the people of West Virginia, that their rights, in, 
 person and property, snail be respected. I ask every one of 
 you to make this good in its broadest sense. Your enemies, 
 have violated every moral law. They have rebelled against 
 a government well able to protect its citizens, and punish its 
 enemies. They have seized upon public and private prop- 
 erty, and outraged the persons of Northern men, simply, be- 
 cause they came from the North, and of Southern men, 
 merely because tiiey loved, and were true to the Union. You 
 will pursue a different course. You will be honest, brave 
 and merciful, respect public opinion, and punish no man for 
 opinion sake. Show to the world, that you differ from our 
 enemies in these points of honor, and that we inaugurate no 
 reign of terror. What say you, soldiers, shall these be your 
 principles ? 
 
 Omnes. — They shall. 
 
 Gren. Lander. — I thank yon for your endorsement of my 
 words. And now, Mayor, it is necessary that we liave more 
 men, for without doubt the rebel Gen. Garnett will attack 
 before long, and more troops can not be detached fro)a the 
 Jiiain army at present. Do you think a sufficient number of 
 men can be recruited to defend the place, in case General 
 Garnett should attack ? 
 
 Percy Rjindolph. — Quite a number of men have already 
 enlisted, General. Not knowing whether we should receive 
 aid from the government so sooHj recruiting offices were 
 opened on onr own responsibility, and several regiments are 
 forming. In the absence of the Colonel of the regiment tu 
 which I have the honor to belong, I tender our services to 
 you, to assist in repelling the common enemy. 
 
 Gen. Lander., — I accept their services, and deem it an 
 honor to command such patriotic men. With their assis- 
 tance, we shall be able to hold the enemy in check, until 
 (xen. McClellan and the main army shall arrive. Are yoiir 
 men equipped for service? 
 
 Percy K. — My company is, and the balance will be before 
 night. 
 
 Geu. Lander. — Then we will leave here, and prepare for 
 the reception of General Garnett when he arrives. (Business, 
 and exit L. 1 E.^ of all except the Fairfaxes.) 
 
 Mr. F. — Wilson, have you enlisted yet ? 
 _ Wilson F.— Yes, Father, both Willie and myself have en- 
 listed. We did so without consulting you, but knowing that 
 YOU would approve, I concluded you would not be offended 
 at our premature action. 
 
13 
 
 Mr. F.— -You have done perfectly right, and mav God in 
 His infinite mercy protect and care for you while away, and 
 bring you home in safety. I only regret that I have one 
 son, so lost to honor, as to fight in defence of treason. 
 
 {Ourtai'th.) 
 
 SCENE IV.—AcT I. 
 
 Enier Miss Winthrop, and Walter Fairfax, cmmrdng. 
 Miss W. — Surely you do not mean what you have just said,. 
 Mr. Fairfax. I am sure you do not. You could not be such, 
 « traitor. 
 
 Walter F, — If ever I meant anything, I do. Miss Win- 
 throp. As to treason, lean see none. We simply ask of the 
 North, the right and privilege of making our own laws. We 
 do not intend to interfere with the North and its pursuits, 
 ftad ask but the same treatment in return. Surely, you do not 
 call this treason ? 
 
 Miss W — If it be not treason, I know not what else to 
 . call it. The North and South are united under, and as, one 
 government, and the same general laws that govern one sec- 
 tsou, mnst govern the other also. But you are not satisfied 
 ivith this, and demand the right tosecede from the main gov- 
 ernment, and form one of your own, aye, more, you demand 
 the surrender into your hands of all the public property of 
 the United States, contained, it is true, within the limits of 
 Southern Territory, but which the North as well the South 
 has helped to place there. The Government denies the right 
 of any State to act in this manner, and the South immedi- 
 ately takes steps to secure by force, what could not be other- 
 wise obtained. By force of arms, Major Anderson was 
 obliged to evacuate Fort Sumpter, and the flag, that the 
 most powerful nation in Europe vainly tried to humble, was 
 trailed in the dust by those who should have periled their 
 Lives in its defence. Now, sir, the Constitution of the Unit- 
 ed States says that Treason shall consist in levying war upon 
 the United States, or giving aid and comfort to its enemies. 
 Can you deny having done these things, and yei you say you 
 have committed no treason ? 
 
 Walter F.— Call it treason then, if you will. But remem- 
 ber. Miss Winthrop, that we also have a side of this ques- 
 tion. Our people have grown furious under long oppression 
 and have resolved to sever themiselves from the thralldom of 
 fche North. 
 
 Miss W. — Owr people? 
 
 Walter F. — Yes, our people„ I do not hesitate tosiay that 
 
14 
 
 1 belong to them fully, and shall remain so. It is true that 
 all my relatives have decided in favor of the Forth, butth^ 
 are wrong, madly wrong, in thus holding on to an old idea. 
 
 Miss W. — Tiiey are not wrong. You are wrong, and I 
 wonder at your being so. 
 
 Walter E. — I see no cause for wonder, Miss Winthrop. 1 
 have been reared and educated in the South. I love her 
 and her intsitutions, and feel it my duty to sustain her in all 
 she undertakes. By the recent action of the North, a m^Q 
 has been placed at the head of the government, whose every 
 avowed sentiment throughout his political career, has pro- 
 claimed him to be the enemy of the South. Slavery, the bul- 
 wark of our wealth and power, has been assailed, and the 
 South, ever watching with a jealous eye for the safety of that 
 institution, has unfurled to the breeze the Palmetto Flag — 
 emblem of our independence — and rallying around it all her 
 loyal sons, has severed her connection with the United States 
 and asserting the supremacy to which she is entitled, has 
 formed a new and powerful government, and now defies the 
 power of the North. Steps have already been taken that will ^ 
 insure our success. The fools, whom we despise, have been 
 made to help us. We have weapons from their arsenals, 
 money from their mints, and officers from their service. All 
 is prepared ; but of course this splendid empire can not be 
 founded without cost. There will be a struggle, but it is not 
 likely that the Northern hirelings will do much fighting, but 
 be that as it may, we must be prepared for any emergency. 
 Our lives and means must be freely given, and all true South- 
 ern men feel it ; but strangely enough, a few still stand up 
 for the old Union. They are willing to exist in the old op- 
 pressive way, instead of having their ambition fired by the 
 promise of a great Southern Empire. Prominent among 
 these is my father. We feel that his wealth, social and offi- 
 cial standing, give him an influence which should at this 
 moment of trial be thrown on our«ide. There are too many 
 who tremble- at the chance of asserting our independence. 
 Each must be put down. They will not be permitted to periJ 
 -» our cause at such a time. Buin awaits those false to the 
 South at this critical moment, while glory awaits those who 
 ^ assist in achieving her victory. You have much influence 
 '■^ with my father, Miss Winthrop. Go see him and place these 
 ^ things in their proper light before him. 
 
 Miss W.— If I have influence with your father, rest lassur- 
 ed that I will never use it for the purpose you propose. I 
 am not surprised that he refused to turn traitor, for it is like 
 him. As for Boyeelf, I do not ai^rove of joiir project. It 
 
15 
 
 16 dastardly. And let me tell you, sir, he, who raises a hand 
 against the beautiful Stars and Stripes of my Country's 'ftag, 
 can not be recognized as friend of mine. < . ' 
 
 Walter F.— Beware, lady, the time is coming when it 
 will be dangerous for even a woman to insult us with such 
 words. Be warned in time, lest you repent when too late 
 (Enter Wilson F., B. 1 E. Bus.) 
 
 Wilson F. — I overheard your threat, sir, and wonder 
 that you dare insult a lady in such a manner. Where is 
 your manhood ? Oh, sir you are falling fast, but be careful 
 in future to whom you apply your threats. A repetition 
 of this offense will cost you dear. Leave us. ' 
 
 Waher F. — I do not fear you, Wilson, but will leave you. 
 But rest assured, that we will meet again, and'you, at least 
 will regret this occurrence. (Exit, B. 1 E.) 
 
 Wilson F.— Come, Miss Winthrop, let us go. My brother 
 will never trouble you again. 
 
 Miss W. — But you cannot forget his threat. 
 
 W^ilson F.— Heed it not. It will never be fulfilled 
 
 {Exit. L. 1 E.) 
 
 ORAND TABLEAU— SECESSION.— End of Act i. 
 
 ACT II,— Scene I. 
 
 Wilson Fairfax discovered pacing heat. 
 
 Wilson F. — How still and quiet is everything, around me. 
 How weary is the life of an oppressed soldier. Tis now five 
 days since I have slept, and my over-taxed system cannot 
 much longer battle with the desire to sleep. It must be near 
 the time for the relief to come, so I will rest for a moment, 
 and then I maybe able to conquer the inclination to neglect 
 my duty. {Leans on musket, sleeps.) TABLEAu-The Penalty. 
 {Enter Col. Lovejoy and Capt. Lacy B. 1 E.) 
 CoL Lovejoy. — What means this ? Wilson Fairfax asleep 
 while on duty ? My revenge is now complete. ( Wakens Wil- 
 son who is struck with horror at the thought of the doom which 
 awaits him.) You are doubtless aware that the penalty of this 
 ie death. You think that my knowledge of the circumstan- 
 ces to which you have fallen a victim added to my influence 
 might save you. But, sir, you shall never be benefitted by 
 either. No, no, your star so long in the ascendant, has now 
 set in disgrace, while mine has arisen in triumph ; and the 
 hour that sees you die, beholds Netta, the Vivandiere, in the 
 power of ycur victorious enemy. (Enter relief ^ardB.'l JS 
 Business.) Sergeant, take charge of this man and conduct 
 
16 
 
 him to the guard-house. (Exit SergL with relief L. I K) The 
 last obstacle in the way of my triumph is removed, thanks 
 to your valuable assistance, Captain My rival has committed 
 a crime, for which "War's inexorable law" declares the pen- 
 alty is death. We will now make the ''Grand Rounds," and 
 then to camp to prepare the papers required to have our vic- 
 tim court-martialed. {Exit, L. 1 E.) 
 
 SCENE II.— ACT II. , 
 
 (hurt- Martial-Ten officers, with President of Court, at one table. 
 Judge Advocate at small tablCf with papers, etc. Officers engaged 
 in conversation. 
 
 Pres't. — Our duty here is other than social intercourse. We 
 have been convened for the purpose of trying a negligent 
 soldier, and not the discussion of the weather, yesterday's din- 
 ner at Col. Langdon's quarters, the claret, cigars, and Vir- 
 ginia ladies. {Officers come to order, and Judge Advocate reads 
 record of trial to this time. PresH continues.) For my own 
 part, gentlemen, I think this quite a simple matter, requiring 
 but little deliberation. Here is the fact of the offense proved, 
 and here is the law upon that offense clearly defined. Noth- 
 ing seems to remain for us to do, but to bring in a verdict in 
 accordance with the law, and the fact, and I move that the 
 vote be immediately taken on this question. ( The Judge Ad- 
 vocate 'prepares to take the vote, when Lieut. Lovel rises and sags:) 
 
 Lieut. Lovel. — Mr. President, and gentlemen of the court, 
 there are mitigating circumstances connected with this of- 
 fense, which, in my judgment should be duly weighed before 
 making up our verdict. 
 
 Pres't. — Lieutenant, when your hair has grown grey in 
 the service of your country, as mine has, and when your 
 flesh has been marked with the scars of a score of well-fought 
 ^elds, you will find your soft theories corrected by hard ex- 
 perience, and you will learn that fhere can be no mitigating 
 circumstances in the case of a sentinel sleeping upon his post ; 
 that nothing can palliate such flagrant and dangerous ne- 
 glect, involving the safety of the whole army ; a crime that 
 martail law has very necessarily made punishable by death. 
 Has any other gentleman any views to advance before we 
 proceed to a general ballot? {Officers again whisper amoThg 
 themselves, after which one says :) I know no reason why the bal- 
 lot shall not be proceeded with. {Judge Advocate calls court to 
 order for taking of vote; questioning each officer in turn, beginning 
 with the youngest.) 
 Judge Advocate. — How say you, Lieut. Lovell, is the pri- 
 
"ii 
 
 :#ner on trial guilty, or not guilty, of the offense laid to his 
 charge ? ( Th^squemon is asked of the Lieutenants, then the Cap- 
 iams, andjinally Maj. Randolph, who responds ''Not OviltJ' 
 vM tjm others my "Guilty-. At the response of Maj. Mandolph, 
 mU the officers rise, throwing as much astonishment in thHr lookl 
 <z« possible. _ Perfect silence, until President speaks.) 
 
 Pres't— Sir! Maj, Randolph ! your vote sir! in direct di- 
 tiance of the fact and the law upon it, is unprecedented, sir 
 m the whole history of courts-martial ! 
 
 Maj. Eandolph.— I record it as uttered, nevertheless 
 Prest— And your oath, sir! what becomes of vour oath 
 as a judge m this court? 
 Maj. R.— I regard my oath in mv vote. 
 Capt. Durell.— What, sir, do you mean to say that you 
 have rendered that vote in accordance with the facts elicited 
 in evidence, as by your oath you are bound to do ? 
 Maj. R. — Yes. 
 
 Capt. Durell.— Do you mean to say that the prisoner did 
 ■fio?. sleep while on duty ? 
 
 Maj. R.— Certainly, I do not, on the contrary, I grant that 
 lie did sleep upon his post, and yet I maintain that in doinff 
 so, he was not guilty ! 
 
 Pres't— Maj. Randolph plays with us ! 
 Maj.^ R.— By no means, sir, I never was more in earnest in 
 any thing, than I am in this. Your honor, the President 
 and you gentlemen, judges of the court, as I am not counsel 
 tor the prisoner, nor civil officer, nor lawyer of, whose interfe- 
 rence courts-martial are jealous, I beg yon will permit me 
 to say a few words in support, or rather explanation of the 
 vote which you have characterized as an opinion in opposi- 
 tion to fact and law, and unprecedented in the whole history 
 of courts-martial. You heard the defense of the prisoner 
 you heard the narrative of his wrongs and sufferings, to the 
 truth of which his every aspect bore testimony. I will not 
 here express a judgment as to the motives of his superior 
 oflicers, but merely refer to the facts themselves, in order to 
 prove that the prisoner, under the circumstances could not 
 with his human power, have done otlierwise than he did 
 
 Pres't .—Sir, if the prisoner considered himself wronged 
 hj hi8 captain, which is very doubtful, he could have appeal- 
 ed to the Colonel of his regiment. 
 
 Myj. R.— True the articles of war accord him that privi- 
 lege, but is it ever taken advantage of? Is there a case on 
 record where a private soldier ventured to make a dangerous 
 enemy of his superior officer, by complaining of his Captain 
 M iiLs tbJonel ? Nor in this case would it have availed hinj 
 
ariytliing, Inasmuch as the prisoner had well-founded rea- 
 sons lor believing the colonel to be his personal enemy, and 
 his captain as only the instrument of that enmity. 
 
 Prest. — And you, Major Randolph, do you coincide in the 
 opinion of the prisoner ? Do you think there could be any 
 thing in common between the colonel of the regiment and 
 the private in the ranks, to explain such an equalizing sen- 
 timent as enmity ? 
 
 Major K. — I answer distinctly, yes, sir. The cause is nor^e 
 other than disappointed love. The prisoner is a young gen- 
 tleman of birth and education, the heir of a large estate ij^ 
 West Virginia, and the betrothed of one of the loveliest la- 
 dies in the State, one well known to nearly all the officers con- 
 stituting this court-martial, for in her impulsive love for him, 
 she has accompanied him here, and is now known as Netta, 
 the Vivandiere. Previous to her acquaintance with the 
 prisoner, Mr., now Col. Lovejoy, was a suitor for her hand 
 with every prospect of success, but fortune threw an uniook- 
 ed for obstacle in his path. She and Wilson met, a mutual 
 attachment sprang up between them, and resulted in their be- 
 trothal. In the meantime, Col. Lovejoy proposed, was re- 
 jected, and demanded a reason. It was given, and on learning 
 who his rival was, he vowed to have revenge should heever 
 have the opportunity. The prisoner therefore had a mortal 
 enemy in Col. Lovejoy. Gentlemen, what I say in the ab- 
 sence of Col. Lovejoy, I am prepared to repeat in his pres- 
 ence, and maintain at the proper time and place. 
 
 Capt. Bevei-ly. — But how came this young gentleman of 
 birth and expectations to be found "in the ranks? 
 
 Major R. — How came we to have headstrong so-ns of weal - 
 tiiy parents, fast young men of fortune, and run-away stu- 
 dents from our colleges and universities in our ranks ? lo 
 a burst of loyal enthusiasm the prisoner enlisted. Destiny 
 gave him as the colonel of his regiment, his mortal enemy- 
 Col. Lovejoy found in Capt. Lacy a ready instrument for h Ik 
 malignity, and between them, they have done all that could 
 be effected to insure the destruction of Wilson Fairfax. And 
 I repeat, gentlemen, that what I feel constrained to say in 
 the absence of those officers, I shall assuredly re-assert and 
 maintain in their presence upon the proper occasion. 
 
 Capt. Marsden. — But it seems to me that this is not directly 
 to the point at issue. 
 
 Major R.— On the contrary, sir, it is the point, the whole 
 point, and 07ily point, as you shall presently see bv atttend- 
 ing to the facts that I shall presently place before you. Yoci 
 liud ail present musit then see that there was a deliberate par- 
 
1^ 
 
 pose to effect the ruin of the prisontr. He Ib accused of 
 sleeping on his post, the penalty of which is death. Now, 
 listen to the history of the time preceding his fault, and tell 
 we if human nature could have stood the trial. Sunday 
 night was the last of repose to the prisoner until Friday 
 morning, when he was found sleeping while on duty. Mon- 
 day night, he was sent with the recconnoitering party to 
 Charles City Cross-roads ; Tuesday, sent as orderly to brig- 
 ade head-quarters, and at night put on guard; Wednesday, 
 sent with the wagon train for supplies, and on In's return, he- 
 was sent out with another reconnoitering party ; Thur.eday, 
 he was sent with the officer who carried dispatches to Gen. 
 Heintzelman, and did not return until late in the night when, 
 thoroughly worn out, he was again detailed and placed on 
 post, where, a few hours later, he was found asleep, and hy 
 whom? The colonel of his regiment, and the captain of his 
 company, who seemed bent upon his ruin ! — as I hold myself 
 bound to prove before another court-martial. This result 
 had been intended from the first. If four nights loss of rest 
 would not have accomplished this, a longer time would and 
 they were able to enforce it until their victim was doomed. 
 And now, gentlemen, in view of all these circumstances, I 
 ask you, was Wilson Fairfax guilty ohvillful neglect of duty 
 iu sleeping on his post ? I move for a reconsideration and 
 a new ballot ! 
 
 Prest.— Such a thing is without precedent, sir! These 
 mitigating circumstances may be brought to bear upon the 
 President, and may be embodied in a recommendation to 
 mercy, but they should have no weight in the finding of the 
 verdict, which should be in accordance with the fact and the 
 law — 
 
 Major E. — And also with justice and humanity. To find 
 a verdict of guilty against the prisoner would be to place an 
 unmerited brand upon his spotless name, which no after clem - 
 ency of the Executive could wipe out. And I again move 
 for a new ballot. 
 
 Lieut. Worth. — I .second the motion, 
 
 Pres't.— Gentlemen, this thing is -without precedent. In all 
 the annals of courts-martail, without preeedenf. 
 
 Maj. R. — Then, sir, if there he no such precedent, it is quite 
 time that such a one were established, so that the iron car of 
 literal law should not always roll over and crush justice. 
 
 Pres't — It is irregular ! it is illegal I it is unprecedented. 
 Never heard of such a thing in forty years of military 
 life. It can noty shall not he done. The ballot has already 
 been taken and by it, you have pronounced him guilty, and 
 
^0 
 
 with due regard to your oaths, you cannot retract that ver- 
 dict. Had the circumstances, known to Maj. Kandolph, been 
 ■explained at the proper time, your decision might have been 
 different, but it is now too late, and it only remains for us to 
 pronounce the sentence. Prisoner, have you anything to say 
 why sentence of death should not be pronounced against you '? 
 
 Wilson F. — I have but little to say, gentlemen, knowing 
 as I do, that it cannot now alter your verdict. A jury of my 
 own countrymen have found me guilty of the crime, where- 
 with I have been charged. For this I entertain not the 
 slightest resentment. Influenced as they have been by the 
 .evidence, they could have found no other verdict. What of 
 that evidence? Any strong observation on it would ill befit 
 the solemnity of this scene, but I ask you, gentlemen, when 
 the passions and prejudices of this hour have passed away 
 to appeal to your own consciences, and think was it sufficient 
 to convict me of willful neglect of duty ? You may think this 
 language unbecoming, and perhaps it may more rirml}' seal 
 my fate, but I am here to speak the truth whatever it may 
 cost. 1 am here to regret nothing I have ever done ; to re- 
 tract nothing I have ever said. I am not here to crave with 
 lying lips, the life I have consecrated to the service of my 
 country. Far from it; even here, where tlie shadows of 
 death surround me, and from which 1 see an un honored 
 grave open to receive me ; eveu here, encircled by these ter- 
 rors, the hope that you will not judge me harshly, console^- 
 me. Judged by military law, I know my crime entails the 
 penalty of death, but the history of my wrongs told you by 
 Maj. Randolph, explains the crime, and justifies it. Judged 
 by that history, I am no criminal, and deserve no punish- 
 ment. Judged by that history, the crime of which I stand 
 convicted loses all its guilt, is sanctioned as a duty, and my 
 death will be ennobled^as a sacrifice. With the expression of 
 these sentiments, I await the sentence of the court. Having 
 done as far as able what I felt to be my duty, having spoken 
 what I feel to be the truth, I now bid farewell to my friends 
 and my country. Pronounce then the sentence which the 
 law directs, and I will be prepared to hear it, and I trust, to 
 m.eet its execution. 
 
 President of Court. — Prisoner, you have been convicted 
 of the crime of sleeping while on duty, the penalty of which, 
 acording to the 46th Article of War, in death, The court 
 does therefore sentence you to be shot at 4 o'clock in the af- 
 ieraoon two days hence, should the findings of the court be 
 ■approved by the proper officers. Your execution has been 
 deferred until that time, to enable your friends to make use 
 
21 
 
 of the statements of Major Randolph, and secure if possible 
 a pardon. Gentlemen, this court is adjourned. 
 
 SCENE III.— ACT II. 
 
 Netta. — {Enters B. IE.) How dull everything is to-day. 
 If !• could only tind some one to have some fun with. Ha! 
 ha ! ha! Speak of the old Harry, and you'll surely see hi* 
 second cousin. In this case I spoke of fun, and here it comes 
 in the shape of a jolly Irish recruit, rigged out in his regi- 
 mentals. Now for a rare bit of sport. (Enter Pat, B. 1 E. 
 singing.) Say, you fellow, where you going to? You're the 
 funniest man I ever saw. Ain't you one of the helps about 
 these diggings ? 
 
 Pat. — Faith an' I am, darlint, one of the ribil helps. I'm 
 going to help hang 'em, an' if there's any thin' I can do for 
 ye, say so, an' I'll do it, if I plaze. 
 
 Netta, — Say, don't you think yourself some pumpkins ? 
 (Laughs.) Well, really, you're the strangest animal I ever 
 saw. What part of the world did you grow in ? (Laughs.) 
 You look like a fly on a cow's back. 
 
 Pat. — (Laughs.) Bejabers, an' if we were both in a cage 
 I don't know which would be the greater curiosity. 
 
 Netta. — You, of course. Say, stranger, what makes you 
 laugh all over your face? My pap once had a pig used to 
 do the same thing, and he was always a good-natured 
 clever, little animal. He used to come in the house, go out, 
 come in again, sit down on the floor, whistle Lanigan's ball, 
 get up, go out and kick over the swill-pail, come in again, 
 stick his feet through the window, spit tobacco juice over the 
 carpet, wipe his nose in the buckwheat cakes, and makehim- 
 jself as sociable as you please. Oh, you never saw such an 
 entertaining animal. (Aside.) That's a good one. 
 
 Pat. — ( Whistles) Divii darn me, if ye haven't licked the 
 blarney stone, but faith and yere grunter was nothin' com- 
 pared with my mother's Thomas cat, with her tail twenty 
 three feet long — 
 
 Netta. — With her tail twenty-three feet long ? 
 
 Pat- — With her tail twenty-three feet long ; only to see her 
 git out of bed in the mornin' and shake her head like an- 
 other cat — 
 
 Netta. — Your mother shake her head ? Why that's noth- 
 ing. 
 
 Pat. — Not my mother, but the cat. After this, she'd go 
 in the field,, milk the cows, twist her tail around the shaft of 
 the low-backed car, shove a short dudheen of a pipe into her 
 mouth — 
 
22 
 
 Netta— Who ? Your mother ? 
 
 Pat — N'^, the CAT. Then she'd run off to market, sell the 
 butter and eggs, drink her three gills of whiskey — 
 
 Netta — Did vour mother drink ? 
 
 Pat— Didn'tl tell you it was the CAT ? Faith, an' after 
 doin' all this, she'd be back in an hour to have herbreakfist 
 of stirabout with the rist of the childer, an' no blarny about 
 it ayther. 
 
 Netta — Well, Pat, I think the cat and pig ought to belong 
 to the same family. 
 
 Pat — So they shall, my darlint. 
 
 Netta — Well, it's a bargain, but you must keep dreadful 
 civil, for if you make me mad, I'm terrible ! 
 
 Pat — I don't care how terrible ye are, for sure me mother 
 was a terrible female: 
 
 Netta — Well, Pat, I have no doubt that you and I will get 
 along right well; but tell me why is. Wilson Fairfax under 
 arrest ? 
 
 Pat — Under a what? 
 
 Netta — Why is Wilson Fairfax in the guardhouse ? 
 
 Pat — Sure and divil a wan of me knows. 
 
 Netta— I iiave asked several times, but none of the guards 
 will tell me, so I wish you to find out for me. Will you do 
 so, Pat? , 
 
 Pat, — Sure an' I will ; but will I find you here when I get 
 back? 
 
 Netta— Yes, but don't be long. (Exit Pat, R. 1 E.) 1 
 hope he succeeds, for the silence of the soldiers on this sub- 
 ject puzzles me, and I fear, bodes evil to the man I love ; but 
 here comes Major Randolph, and he, of all others, can an- 
 swer my questions. {Enter Major Bandolph, B.IE.) Good 
 day, Major. Why do you look so gloomy and sad this fine^ 
 day ? 
 
 Major R. — Is it not enough to sadden any one, to know 
 that his best friend is condemned to die ? 
 
 Netta — It certainly is, but who is this friend ? 
 
 Major R, — Wilson Fairfax. 
 
 Netta — {Astonished,) What mean you ? W^ilson condemn- 
 ed to die! For what ? 
 
 Major R, — You are aware of the enmity Col, Lovejoy has 
 against Wilson, but you are not aware of what he has accom- 
 plished during this week. By his orders, and Capt. Lacy's — 
 another enemy of our friend — Wilson has been kept on duty 
 for the last three days and nights, and last night was again 
 detailed for picket, when, worn out by the labors of previous 
 days, he fell asleep and was so found by Capt. Lacy, who was 
 
23 
 
 officer of the day, and Col. Lovejoj. Charges were preferred 
 against him, he was court-martialed, found guilty, and sen- 
 tenced to be shot at four o'clock two days hence, but in the 
 meantime an effort must be made to secure his pardon, 
 
 Netta — And you are now — 
 
 Major R. — In search of a trusty messenger to carry the 
 petition to the President. 
 
 Netta — Let me be that messenger, mine the privilege of 
 securing the pardon. 
 
 Major R. — Impossible. Netta, there are others more fit- 
 ted for the work ; besides, think of the danger you would 
 incur, during your journey to and from Washington ? 
 
 Netta — Danger ? Have I not been in danger before ? 
 Have I not been where the roar of artillery, the rattle of 
 musketry, and shrieks of wounded and dying men were the 
 only sounds that met the ear? Have I not been among men 
 thirsting for each other's blood? Have I not ministered to 
 the wounded on the battle-field, when the midnight prowlers 
 were at their horrible work of desecrating the bodies of the 
 dead? Have I not dared all the perils of the camp, and 
 come out unscathed? Having done this, why shall I hesi- 
 tate at encountering any danger that may lie between here 
 and Washington ? Oh, sir, you do not know what woman is 
 capable of doing in a cause she loves. Provide for me a good 
 horse, and with that and my trusty revolver, I will accom- 
 plish my mission. 
 
 Maj. R — Then be it so. I grant your desire. Take this, 
 present it to the President, and use all your eloquence to se- 
 cure a pardon, and be as expeditious as possible, for it is now 
 past ten o'clock, and two days hence, Wilson dies, In 
 front of my quarters, you will find my own horse, have the 
 saddle changed as quickly as possible, 
 
 Netta — Thanks, Major, In a short time, I will be on the 
 way, and rest assured, that, if alive and free, I will arrive in 
 time to save Wilson. And now, farewell. 
 
 Maj. R. — :Farewell, and may you be successful. {Exit 
 Netta, B. 1 -E*.) Noble, self-sacrificing woman, I fear her 
 mission will be a fruitless one, for the President has already 
 pardoned one for the same offence, and may hesitate ere he 
 saves another. But I must hasten to Wilson, and endeavor 
 to comfort him. {Exit L, 1 E,) 
 
 SCENE IV.— Act ii. 
 
 Audience chamher in the White House. Netta discovered pa- 
 cing floor. 
 Netta. — For two long hours have I thus paced this floor, 
 
24 
 
 impatiently waiting for an interview with the President, and 
 still he comes not. Why does he not come ? I told the ser- 
 vant to inform him that my mission was one of life and 
 death, and would admit of no delay. It is now past three 
 o'clock and at 4 to-morrow Wilson is to die, unless I can 
 arrive in time with a pardon which I pray God the Presi- 
 dent may grant. Would he were here now, for this sus- 
 pense is perfect misery to me. Ah ! some one comes. It 
 may be him, {President enters.) 
 
 Lincoln. — Young lady, I am informed that you wished to 
 see me o« important business. Please state it at once, as my 
 time is precious, and there are others waiting for an inter- 
 view also. {JSfetta throws back her ma'nile, discovering her Vivan- 
 diere costume. President startes.) From the army, your mis- 
 sion at once, lady. 
 
 Netta. — {Handing paper.) Mercy for a condemned soldier, 
 
 Prest — {Beads) "To the Hon, Abraham Lincoln, Presi- 
 dent of the United States, — Sir: A soldier known as Wilson 
 Fairfax, private in Company A, 19th Reg't, West Virginia 
 Volunteers, was this morning arrested for sleeping while on 
 duty, was court-martialed, found guilty, and sentenced as the 
 law difects, but in view of extenuating circumstances which 
 the bearer will explain, it is earnestly hoped by oflBcers and 
 men, that th-e Executive clemency may be extended unto 
 him and a pardon granted." Lady, I fear I can do nothing 
 for you, as this man in sleeping upon his post, neglected one 
 of the most important duties of a soldier, a neglect which 
 would have periled the live? of all in camp, had the enemy 
 discovered it. Fortunately, in this case, it has caused no 
 harm, still the offence remains the same, and for this offence 
 he has been fairly tried and sentenced by his own comrades, 
 who, knowing all the circumstances, were most apt to be le- 
 nient towards him, 
 
 Netta — True, they knew all the circumstances, but you do 
 not, therefore allow me to tell them to you. The prisoner, 
 ere the breaking out of the war, had incurred the enmity of 
 a man whom destiny gave him as his superior oflScer,, and 
 from cause unknown to me, he had also an enemy in his 
 captain, and these two men joined together to effect his ruin, 
 To accomplish their object, they used means which could 
 not fail, bit at the same time were covered by their author- 
 ity. For three days and nights, previous to the commission 
 of the ofl'ence for which the prisoner has been condemned to 
 die, he was constantly kept on duty, but three days and nights 
 not being sufficient to crush him, another was added, and 
 forgetful of the danger he incurred he slept upon his post. 
 
25 
 
 And now sir, convicted under circumstances such as these, 
 can YOU permit him to die ? 
 
 Pres't. — Lady, I feel at this moment a pain second only 
 to your own — 
 
 Netta — Oh, do not utter what you were about to say. 
 You, and you only, can save this man. Oh ! that any one 
 man should have power to take away another's life at hie 
 pleasure. Have mercy as you expect mercy of Heaven. Oh I 
 grant this man's life. Oh ! Heaven! when I think of the 
 power that rests in this hand of yours. Oh! you cannot 
 let him die. 
 
 Pres't. — Lady, Heaven bears me witness how deeply I sym- 
 pathize with you. How terrible it is to me to be obliged to 
 refuse your request. But you entirely mistake my power. 
 .1 am under the law of conscience, and accountable to Heaven 
 and the laws of the land for the use of the power in me vest- 
 ed. I could not tell you, perhaps, without deeply wound- 
 ing your heart, how much reason I have for denying you 
 the boon you crave. I can only recommend you and thi^ 
 young man to the tender mercy of God, whose compassion 
 and power are both unlimited. 
 
 Netta.— Still calloup. Oh ! mU nothing move you? Please 
 jisten to me further. Oh, sir, you had a mother once whom 
 you loved, and who loved you. Nov/ for a moment let us 
 suppose you in this man's position, condemned to die, in the 
 morning of yowr life, for a crime, the commission of which 
 was forced upon you by the violation of the laws of Nature. 
 Imagine your mother pleading for your life at the hands of 
 one who had the j)Ower to grant it, and yet would not. Im- 
 agine that mother going away bowed down with grief, and 
 for what ? Simply because a man, holding the life of her son 
 in his power, refused to grant it to her. Again, sir, it may 
 be, that one dearer to him than a mother, one whom he looks 
 upon as his future companion through the journey of life, she 
 who is to share with him its joys and sorrows, bound to him 
 by the fondest ties of human love, comes, and throwing her- 
 self at the feet of this man, begs and pleads with the eloquent 
 language of love, for the life of him who is as dear to her as 
 her own existence, and yet he will not relent, but to all their 
 earnest entreaties returns the same heartless answer — "I will 
 not grant his life." Their loved one dies, and in a short 
 time is followed also by them ; and why ? Because 
 a man, having the power to make them all happy, re- 
 fused to exercise it. Now, sir, what would you think of 
 such a man ? Would you not think him heartless, and devoid 
 of all the attributes that tend to make mankind **a little low- 
 
26 
 
 ev than the angels" ? And yet you stand in the same posi- 
 tion. This young man, whose life I plead for, has a father, 
 mother and sister, to whom his death would be the severest 
 blow that could be dealt. Moreover, he has pleading for 
 his life, one to whom he is dearer than her own life, one 
 who, kneeling at your feet, (kneels) begs for the life of the 
 man she loves, and you will not grant it. You will consign this 
 man to an early and ignoble grave, and by his death crush to 
 earth the hearts of those who love him. You will deliberately 
 place yourself at the side of the man I have portrayed to you, 
 and in your cruelty, say, "I will not pardon him. He shall 
 die." Oh, surely, you cannot do this. Oh, say, you will not. 
 
 Pres't — No ! no ! I could not do it ! Lady, your prayers 
 would melt of heart a stone ! I would not look back upon 
 this scene, at some future day, and say to myself " I refused 
 the life of a man condemned to die for an act, the commis- 
 sion of which was unjustly forced upon him." I may do 
 wrong, but his life shall be spared. Your plea is granted. 
 Here (taking pen and writing,) take this. It is a full and 
 free pardon, and hasten to the camp, for even now ihe hour 
 is swiftly drawing near, in which your lover is to die, unless 
 you reach there in time to save him. God grant you do not 
 be too late. 
 
 Netta — Oh! may Heaven bless you for this noble act. 
 Rest assured, sir, that wherever fortune may cast tlie lot of 
 Netta, the Vivandiere, your name shall ever ascend in grate- 
 ful prayer and thanks to God, for the deed of mercy you 
 have this day performed. As you say, the time is short, but 
 love shall hasten Netta, so that she shall arrive in time to 
 save the life of him she loves. (Noise outside, voice heard, "I 
 will see him at once,"eMter 3fr. Fairfax, advances to President, 
 ^etta lingers. ) 
 
 Pres't — Well, sir, why this intrusion upon a private inter- 
 view ? (Mr. Fairfax turns and sees Netta.) 
 
 Mr. Fairfax — Miss Winthrop ? 
 
 Netta — Yes, Mr. Fairfax, Miss Winthrop, but now known 
 as Netta, the Vivandiere. I know your errand here, but it 
 it is already accomplished. I have here a pardon for your 
 son, granted by our noble President, with which I must 
 hasten to camp. Return to your home, and let those anxi- 
 ously waiting there, know the good news. As for me, I must 
 away at once, or I shall be too late. As soon as possible you 
 shall know the result. Farewell ! (Picture.) 
 
 SCENE v.— Act n. 
 
 Pat. — (Entering R. 1 E.) Begorra here I am again, rumin- 
 
'27 
 
 ating on the trials of a man in loye, an' faith an' myself ia 
 that man. The desire to make love to every woman I meet, 
 has ruined me intirely. Since I've been dressed in sojer 
 clothes, I've been as smart as a young fox, on the floor of a 
 hen roost, fell in love with every girl in camp, and begorra 
 that's only one. Begorra but she played a fine trick on me 
 day before yesterday. She axed me to go and find out some- 
 thing for her, and she would wait till I came back, but when 
 I returned, she was gone and divil a sight have I had of her 
 since. Now when I do see her, divil a word will I spake to 
 her at all, at all. Och, but I wonder where she is anyhow ? 
 [Netta enters hastily, followed by Rebel Captain and two men.) 
 
 Netta. — Save me, Pat, save me, 
 
 Pat. — Sure an' I will do that same. .Arrah, why are ye 
 chasing the lady, ye dirty, thieving rascals? Do ye's think 
 to capture the angel, ye blackguards? {Captain attempts to seize 
 Netta, but is preventedhy Pat.) Get back ye unmannerly ras- 
 cals, or I'll let daylight shine through you quicker than a 
 greased pig would go through a garden gate. 
 
 Capt. — What mean you, fellow? 
 
 Pat. — Aisy now, an' I'll tell ye what I mean. This young 
 lady has asked me to protect her, and by the big Hill of 
 Howth, I'll do it. D'ye mind that now? 
 
 Capt. — [To his men.) Secure your prisoner. {They seeing 
 Pat's revolvers, hesitate.) Seize them both. Do you not un- 
 derstand me? (To P«f.) We've been ordered to capture that 
 lady. 
 
 Pat. — Why don't you do it then? Don't you see that your 
 companions are in no hurry to undertake it? 
 
 Capt. — Men why don't you obey my commands? 
 
 Pat.— I'll tell ye why. Sure they have a family regard for 
 their lives. They know that when they come, they will be 
 surrounded by the enemy, and have to surrender to superior 
 numbers. {Shows revolvers.) 
 
 Capt. — The lady we must and will have, and in addition 
 will have you also. {Business. Men rush at, and secure Pat. 
 Capt. moves toward Netta.) 
 
 Netta. — One step nearer, and I fire. {Capt. moves forward, 
 and is shot by Netta. During this time Pat is sti'uggling with the 
 men and when Netta shoots the Capt., Pat succeeds in getting one 
 hand free, and knocks one of the men down. He rises immediately, 
 draws a knife, and in the act of rushing at Pat, is shot by Netta, 
 Pat easily, "surrounds^' the other.) 
 
 Pat — Begorra, ye blackguard, but I've got you safe. What 
 shall we do with him, Netta ? 
 
 Netta — Bind him and bring him to camp. This you can 
 
28 
 
 attend to yourself, as I must arrive in camp, before the exe- 
 cution of Wilson Fairfax takes place. {Exit R. 1 E.) 
 
 Pat. — Bedad, there she's gone again. Well, secesh, we'li 
 follow her illustrious footsteps. {Bm. Exit, M. 1 E.) 
 
 Capt. — A little deception accomplishes a great deal some 
 times. Had I not feigned death, I would now be a prisoner 
 in the hands of these hated Yankees. Curse the luck, but 
 for that Irishman, the girl would have been ours. But it 
 will not do to remain here, for some prowling blue coat may 
 come along, and I am in no condition to light at present. I 
 must take this body into the woods, and bury it. {Exit L. 1 
 E., dragging body mth him.) 
 
 SCENE VI.— ACT Ti. 
 
 [Firing party L, Wilson Fairfax standing in front of reprt' 
 mentation of coffin R, his brother near him, Maj. R. C, all di»- 
 mvered. 
 
 Maj. R. — Wilson, the moment of your execution is near 
 at hand, and yet Netta has not arrived. What can detain 
 her. I fear she has been captured, or she would have arrived 
 ere this. I had hoped that she would arrive in time, to pre- 
 vent you going through this terrible ordeal. 
 
 Wilson F. — Blame her not, Maj. Noble girl, doubtless she 
 has done all she could to procure a pardon, and not been 
 successful. Such being the case, I feel relieved that she is 
 not here, for her presence would only add more sorrow to a 
 heart already full. Willie, your grief unmans me, and can 
 neither alter the past or present. Maj. promise me that you 
 will watch over, and befriend Netta and my brother, wheB 
 f am gone. 
 
 Maj. K— Wilson, I will. 
 
 Capt. — Come, gentlemen, the time for the execution has 
 arrived. Let me prepare tiie prisoner. {Advances mth hand- 
 kerchief to blindfold Wilson.) 
 
 W^ilson. — Captain, allow me to die as a brave man should 
 die. I have no fear of death, but regret that my fate has 
 been to meet it elsewhere than on the battle-field, face to face 
 with the enemies of my country. {Captain grants tkerequest, 
 returns to his position, and gives the proper orders to bnng the 
 firing party from the position of "parade rest," to that of "aim." 
 The moment the Captain is about to give the command "fire," 
 Netta rushes in R. U. E., cries *'hoi,d", throws herself in front 
 of Wilson, is wounded and falls into his arms. He lowers her 
 gently to the stage, and supports her head o»i his arm. Captain 
 firings the soldiers to "parade resl^' again.) 
 
2» 
 
 "Wileon F. — Oh ! Heavens ! is she dead ! 
 
 Maj. R.— No, fortunately her sudden entrance disconcer- 
 ted the men, and only one bullet struck her, and that in the 
 .*rm, and she has awooned from excitement. See, she is re- 
 covering. 
 
 Netta. — Have I arrived in time? 
 
 Wilson F. — Yes, Netta, you have arrived in tiaio to see 
 me die. 
 
 Netta.— Oh, say not so. Here is your pardon with which 
 I should have arrived sooner had I not been detained out- 
 aide of camp. 
 
 Wilson— Heaven bless you. How can I ever repay you ? 
 
 Netta — I have my reward in knowing that I have saved 
 your lii'e. 
 
 AFFECTING TABLEAU. 
 End of Act ir. 
 
 ACT III— Scene I. 
 
 ( The batthj Regt. discovered in position to receive rebel charge, 
 volley of musketry, fall of color sergt. Conftision, Netta rushes w 
 seizes theflag^ and raises il, during which another volley is fired,. 
 Regiment attempts to retreat, bvX is stopped by Netta, 
 
 Netta — One step farther and you die I Soldiers of th« 
 tOtJi, to your valor has been confided the holding of thi? 
 position, the capture of which would secure victory to 
 yonder rebel horde, and disgraceful defeat to our army. 
 Having witnessed your heroic deeds, on many well fought 
 fields, your general thought he could not place this position 
 in better hands, and is this the way in which you treat hi** 
 confidence? Is this your bravery? Would you make me 
 ashamed of the regiment I have accompanied so long ? If 
 not, then let this position be held, if necessary, so long ag 
 one of the 19th is able to handle a musket. The position is 
 one of fearful danger, it is true, but you must not forget that 
 the fate of our army depends upon your iiolding it. Yon- 
 der comes a rebel charge, one of the heaviest you have yet 
 withstood, but do not fear ; if every one stands firm, they 
 cannot break our front. Some must die! but in dying they 
 will show to the world that they are willing to sacrifice life 
 and everything they hold dear, upon the altar of their 
 •country. [Col. attempts to relieve Netta of the colors.) No ! 
 Colonel, I will bear tbe colors of the 19th through this en- 
 gagement, and I ask every man to do nothing to make me 
 regret having done 80. 
 
 Col. — So be it. Soldiers, reserve your fijre iintil they are 
 
so 
 
 close upon m*, then let cold steel and close quarters show 
 what the men of Western Virginia can do in defense of their 
 nation's honor. Let the words of Netta nerve every man to 
 dare every thins:, sooner than suffer defeat. {Volley fired^ 
 acDeral fall. Rebel charging party comes on the stage, are driv- 
 en back to wings, Rebel soldier attempts to capture colors, but 
 is shot by Netta. Charge ordered by Netta. Defeat of Reb- 
 fls. Illumination. 
 
 SCENE II— ACT m. 
 
 Fairfax Mansion — 3frs F., R. weeping, Hattie, C, discovered 
 Mr. Fairfax enters R. 2 E. 
 
 Mrs, F. — Well, husband, did you succeed? 
 
 Mr F. — My mission was accomplished l)efore I met the 
 President. 
 
 Mrs. F.—Oh, tell us all about it ? 
 
 Mr. F. — On my arrival in Washington, I endeavored to 
 have an interview with the President, but beirig denied, I 
 went unbidden to the audience chamber, and found that an- 
 other had already secured what I was so anxious to obtain. 
 And who think you did it? 
 
 Hattie — We cannot even gue^ss. Tell us, father? 
 
 Mr F. — She who disappeared so suddenly after the regi- 
 ment left. None other than Miss Winthrop, who is now 
 with the army and known as Netta, the Vivandiere» She was 
 about to start with the pardon, when I entered the room. 
 
 Mrs F. — God bless the noble girl ; but could she arrivt» 
 in time to save him? 
 
 Mr. F. — She was confident of being able to do so, and she 
 promised to let me know the result as soon as possible, so we 
 may look for a messenger at any. moment. {Bell rings, mes- 
 senger enters, preceded by servant who retires.) 
 
 Mess. — I was ordered to deliver this note to the father of 
 Wilson Fairfax. Are you the gentleman, sir? 
 
 Mr. F. — I am. [3Iessenger delivers, retires, Fairfax opens 
 letter and readsl. "Dear Father: — All is well with me now, 
 thanks to Netta who arrived just in time to save my life. I 
 have but little time to write, as preparations to leave camp 
 are in progress, and it is probable that we will have some 
 hard fighting before long. Excuse brevity, and believe me 
 as ever, your son ; — Wilson Fairfax." There, mother, yoo 
 see how well Netta has fulfilled her mission. May God re- 
 ward her as she deserves ? 
 
 Mi-8. F. — Amen! [Picture.} 
 
31 
 
 SCENE 3— Act iii— Landscape. 
 
 Walter Fairfax — {entering hastily L. 1 E. advances a few 
 steps, retreatSy) Ah ! what a narrow escape, for I had a i most 
 walked into yonder party of Yankee officers conjing this way. 
 I'll conceal myself and may possibly obtain some ufjeful in- 
 formation, from their conversation. Although an officer in 
 the Confederate army, I do not consider it beneatli me to play 
 the spy, if I can ootain information that will benefit the 
 cause I love. {Conceals himself — enter 17. S. Officers R. 1 E.) 
 
 Gen. Sedgwick — Well, gentlemen, although we struck the 
 tnemy a severe blow yesterday, yet they are making prepa- 
 rations for another battle, and I very much desire to know 
 what is going on in yonder stretch of woods. Colonel How- 
 ard, you will order the Col. of the 5th Cavalry to make a recon- 
 Jioisance in that direction, and find out what the enemy is 
 doing. {Exit Colonel Howard R. 1 E. One of the other mem" 
 bers of the staff discovers Walter,) What ! a spy ? and an offi- 
 cer too ! Sir, what is your bus^iness within our lines? 
 
 Walter — That ycni must find out, sir!" 
 
 General Sedgwick — Capt. conduct this gentleman to Col. 
 Fairfax, and order him to convene a court martial immedi- 
 ately, and if found guilty, let him suffer the doom of a spy. 
 [Exit Capt. and Walter R.\ E.) Come, gentlemen, let us re- 
 turn to camp. {Exit R.l E.) 
 
 ■ SCENE 4^AcT 111— Woods. 
 
 {Drum-head Court martial. Walter L. with hat crushed 
 down, partially hiding his face. Col. Fairfax R: and Inick. 
 
 Col. Fairfax — Gentlemen, you have seen the papers found 
 upon this man, and heard the evidence of the officer who de- 
 tected him lurking in the woods, and listening to conversa* 
 tion not intended to be heard by rebel officers, all of which, 
 in my judgment, proclaims him to be a spy. If found guilty, 
 military law provides no punishment but death. What say 
 you, gentlemen, is the prisoner guilty or not guilty ? 
 
 Omnes — Guilty. 
 
 Col. F.— Sir, you have heard the verdict, have yon aught 
 to say why the penalty for your oflTence should not be im- 
 posed on you. { Walter remains silent.) Capt. Forbes, you 
 will take charge of his execution. But stay, let us see hie 
 face, for he has thus far studiously kept it from view. {Rais- 
 es the hat from his face. ) 
 
 Walter F. — Behold then your own brother ! 
 
 Wilson F.— Oh ! Heaven ! have I condemned my own 
 brother ! {Is overcome with the thought of what he has don^ 
 
32 
 
 and bows his head, as do all the others, Netta enters L. 2 E., 
 &uts the bonds on Walter^s vmsts, and tells him in a whisper 
 to fly, he pushes the guard away, rushes out L. 2 E. guards 
 jUre, but miss, Walter utters a long loud laugh, Netta' retires 
 Li 2 E. immediately. Considerable covfusion on tlie stage.) 
 What! ha<s the prisoner escaped? Pursue him men and 
 <iapture him if possible. (Exit all L. 2 E. but Col F.) I 
 b^ve given orders to have him captured, but I hope he may 
 escape. Who could have released him ? ( While CoL F. m 
 upeaking, Netta enters L. 2 E.) 
 
 Netta — I, Wilson, I cut his bonds, and told him he wail 
 free. 
 
 Col. F. — And why did you do it, Netta ? You know not 
 what injury his escape may do to our cause. 
 
 Netta — I care not. I would not have it said that the man 
 I love, caused his own brother to be executed. You would 
 aot ^ish it yourself, would you? 
 
 Col. F. — No, Netta, I would not. But it is past now, and 
 though you did wrong, I will not blame you. [Piciure, 
 Ourtain.'] 
 
 Enb of Act hi. 
 
 act iv. — scene i, 
 
 ( Woods. Confederate OJlcers discovered,) 
 
 Gen. Magrudor, — Another victory added to the number 
 already won by the hireling minions of the hated North, be- 
 cause Maj. Fairfax failed to perform the duty assigned him. 
 His conduct in yesterday's engagement must be investigated. 
 Orderly ride over to Maj. Fairfax's quarters, and order him 
 to report here immediately {Exit orderly R. 1 E. ; enter Maj. 
 Fairfax B. IE.) 
 
 Maj. F. — General, I have been informed that you desired 
 to see me. I had just returned from a visit to the Yanked 
 camp, and reported immediately. 
 
 Gen. M. — Did you obtain any information in regard to 
 their movements ? 
 
 Maj. F. — I did, and almost lost my life in so doing. 
 
 Gen. M. — In what manner? 
 
 Maj. F. — After examining their outposts, I resolved, to en- 
 ter their line.s, to acquaint myself more fully with their works 
 and unfortunately, met a party of officers, bu tnoitoo late to 
 conceal myself. From my liiding-place, I heard some of 
 their plans talked over, and was congratulating myself ou 
 my good fortuoe, wheu one of the infernal scoundrels dis- 
 
33 
 
 covered and seized me before I could escape. A court mar- 
 tial was convened at once, I was tried as a spy, found guilty, 
 and condemned to die, when by a lucky stroke of fortune^ 
 I was enabled to escape. 
 
 Gen. M. — You were very fortunate, but now in reference 
 to my purpose in summoning you here. You had charge of 
 the assaulting party yesterday, that was ordered to capture 
 the strongest position of the enemy's line, had you not ? 
 
 Maj. F. — I had. General. 
 
 Gen. M. — Acquaint me with the reason of your failure. 
 
 Maj. F. — As you are aware, we had driven in their skir- 
 mishers, and were rapidly advancing upon the main line, 
 with confidence in our ability to carry that also, for their 
 colors down, nearly half their officers killed or wounded, our 
 batteries rapidly thinning theii ranks, a panic seized them, 
 and the victoiy seemed already ours, when she whom they 
 call Netta, the Vivandiere sprang in among them, seized the 
 fallen colors, raised them above her head, and herself barred 
 the way of the retreating men. Their broken ranks were 
 quickly reformed, and when we charged upon them, they 
 stood like a wall of stone. Twice did we cliarge, and as 
 often were forced to retire. Nothing could break through 
 that hedge of steel and determined men, nerved to their 
 work by the cheering cries of this girl, who amid the storm 
 of leaden hail, stood undaunted by their sides. Suddenly 
 she sprang to the front, gave the order to charge, and as an 
 avalanche they hurled themselves upon us, and the day was 
 theirs. 
 
 Gen. M. — Your account of the affair exonerates you from 
 the suspicion I had of your conduct in yesterday's engage- 
 ment. It is well known that men will do and dare almost 
 anything where woman is concerned, especially when they 
 are idolized as this Netta is said to be ! She must be cap- 
 tured, or disposed of some other way. She has done too 
 much injury to us in all of our late battles, to. be permitted 
 to remain where she is. Colonel, you will iss^e orders to 
 the difi'erent regiments, offering a reward for the capture of 
 this woman. And now, Major, what infojp^aati^on in regard 
 to the movements of the enemy did y ^le ^rQ while within 
 their lines ? TPJ^- y-^ 
 
 Major F. — That a reconnoitering paT*y''was to be sent out, 
 in order to learn the nature of our movements in the woods 
 on our right. 
 
 Gen. — Ah ! tliis must be attended to. What was to be 
 the strength of the reconnoitering party ? 
 
 Maj. y, — A regiment of cavalry. 
 
34 
 
 Gen. — Maj. Fairfax, you will, with your regiment attend 
 to this reconnoitering party, and if possil>le, capture it. In 
 the meantime don't forget that this vivandiere must be cap- 
 tured. [Curtain.) 
 
 SCENE II— ACT IV. 
 
 Landscape. Enter Netta L. 1 E. 
 
 Netta. — How dark it is getting, and a storm is coming on. 
 (Thunder and lightning.) I must hasten to camp. I should 
 have been tliere now, had Col. Fairfax not been ordered to 
 make this reconnoissance with his regiment inste td of the 
 5th cavalry, Ah ! what's that. (Two confederate soldiers en- 
 ter from the right, and run toward Netta as if they intended to 
 capture her. At same time one enters from the left. Halt or 
 your lives shall pay the forfeit. {She levels the revolver at 
 them. The soldier in rear knocks the revolver from her hand, and 
 they all seize her.) 
 
 Soldier. — We have you now, my pretty miss. We will 
 make a nice pile of stamps on your capture. The general 
 has offered a thousand dollars reward for your capture and 
 we intend to deliver you to him. {Business.) No, no, miss 
 we could not think of letting you go. Come along. {They 
 start out, but are met by Maj. F. who recognizes Netta.) 
 
 Maj.' F. — Release that lady, men. He cuts her bonds, while 
 men crowd around them. Draws sword and drives them back.) 
 Back you hounds, have you no more manhood than to treat 
 a lady in the manner you have this one. Netta, do you wish 
 to return to the camp? If you do, I will accompany you as 
 far as it wou'd be safe for me to go, if you will allow me. 
 
 Netta.r— I do wish to go, but alone. '{Thunder followed by 
 lightning. 
 
 Maj. F. — Impossible. It is now nearly dark, and besides 
 there are more men of the kind I rescued you from, along 
 the road. 
 
 Netta. — Give me back my revolver, and I will take care 
 of myself. 
 
 Maj. F. — Here it is Netta, and you are free to go as you 
 will. But at least we part as friends. 
 
 Netta. — Maj. Fairfax, as I told you three years ago, so I 
 tell you now. I can not look upon the enemies of my coun- 
 try, as friends of mine. I released you to-day, nut from re- 
 gard for you, but to save your brother from the commission 
 of an act which his duty required him to perform, but 
 which would have been a source of unhappiness witlij him in 
 time to come, When you sever your connection with this 
 
35 
 
 rebel cause, and return to your allegiance to your country, 
 then may you claim me as your friend, but not before. Un- 
 til that time, farewell. {Goes to the loings on B, stays there 
 ■and overhears the remarks of Fairfax to his men. Lightning, 
 followed by thunder.) 
 
 Maj. F. — Well she is gone, and I hope she may reach the 
 camp in safety. Now soldiers, we must hasten on to the 
 cross roads, or we will be to late too intercept the Yankee 
 scouting party we are after. \^Exit all, L. 1 E. Enter Netta^ 
 E.IE. 
 
 Netta. — They have gone to prepare their ambuscade. How 
 fortunate that I iongered a moment to listen, and thereby 
 learned of the trap they intend to set for the return of the 
 reconnoitering party under command of Col. Fairfax. But 
 if possible I must foil them. [Exit L. 1 E. Lightning, fol- 
 lowed by thunder. 
 
 SCENE IV.— ACT III, 
 Woods. Confederates discovered. 
 
 Maj. F. — Now men, lose no time in getting the netting 
 lixed across the road, and retire to your hiding places, and 
 when in^ let no noise be made, until tliey are entangled in 
 the net. Then fire low, and let every shot bring down a man, 
 for if possible not one must escape to tell the tale. IBusiness.l 
 There that will do. Now into your place at once. [All se- 
 crete themselves in. various places, as Col. F. enters with Union 
 troops, R. 2 E. loho do nots.ee the netting Until some get fast 
 in it. Lightning, followed by thunder. 
 
 Col. F. — Men do you not see the trap that has been pre- 
 pared for us? Be watchful for an ambuscade is near at 
 hand. [The command ^'Fire" is here given by Maj. F., several 
 Unionists fall, the Confederates come on the stage, and engage in 
 a hand to hand conflict, the leaders selecting each other as antag- 
 onist. After a few passes, the men cease fighting, and vmtch their 
 leaders. During this scene thunder is heard, and a vivid flash 
 of lightning shows Col. F. that he is fighting his brother. When 
 he makes this discovery he draws back and exclaims f Walter, 
 brother is it you ? 
 
 Maj. F.— Yes, it is me, but what matters that ? Raise your 
 sword and defend yourself. 
 
 Col. F. — Never will I willingly raise my hand against my 
 brother's life. \_Lets his sword fall behind him.'] 
 
 Maj. F. — Then your blood be upon your own head, for, as 
 I live, I will not spare you. \_Makes a lunge at him.'] Die ! 
 
 Netta. — Bushes in, B. 1 E. picks up Col. F's sword, and with 
 
it knocks Maj, F"s morel from his grasp.J Frairieide, woold 
 you murder your own brother. 
 
 Maj. F.— Aye^ were he ten times my brother. Througp£ 
 my negligence you have robbed me of my sword, but this 
 [drawing revolver] slill remains. Now, cursed Yankee your 
 doom is sealed. [Baises- revolver to shoot Wilson, hit ere he can 
 use it he is shot by Netiajalls^ and his pistol is discharged in the air. 
 As he falls, his men are driven out by the Union party, leaving Wil- 
 son, Walter, andNeita on the stage. Netta kneels by side of Walter 
 who is raised by Wilson.'] 
 
 Col. F. — Are you much injured, Walter. 
 
 Maj. F, — Yes, that bullet struck me in the breast, and has 
 I fear inflicted a dangerous wound. Curse you, girl, you 
 have laid me up for awhile. 
 
 Netta. — The fault was your own, you brought your inju- 
 ry upon yourself. 
 
 Col. F. — Peace, Netta, this is no time for recriminations, 
 Walter requires surgical aid, and must have it. Do you feci 
 able to walk as far as the camp, Walter, or shall I have you 
 carried to the ambulance ? 
 
 Maj. F. — You need not trouble yourself. With a little 
 assistance I can walk, [ilfen. have returned by this time with 
 prisoners.] Here Howard. [To one of the men.] Give this 
 man your arm, and assist me in getting him to the ambu^ 
 lance. [ExitalL Curtain.] 
 
 SCENE IV— Act iv. 
 
 Enter Pat and Pomp, P. 
 
 Pomp — I say now, massa Pat, yoa done just elar away an^ 
 lebe dis ole dark alone. 
 
 Pat. — Now, Pomp, ye aint going to git out of temper on 
 the Fourth of July, are ye? Didyenever liear what Mr. — Mr. 
 well never mind who said? [Pomp shakes his head) Ye 
 didn't? Well, thin, I'll tell ye. He said : 
 
 Let bears and lions growl and fight 
 Cause ye were not made to scratch and bite. 
 Now, Pomp, that's the way with this Fourth of July. It's 
 not made to git mad in. Now see here, Pomp, I'm going to 
 make a speech an' ye must be the ordiance, so squat down 
 there and listen. {Pomp sits onstage against wings) This 
 Fourth of July is a decided success, a perfect ripsnorter. Yes, 
 Pomp, it's a right out an' outer. It's niver been bate, and 
 darn me ould stockin's if it can be bate. Sure an' it's a 
 better man thin iver Christmas was. St. Patrick's day's some 
 but Fourth of July is always summer. If there was no other 
 
37 
 
 raison for gittin' mad, cussin an' tearin' round, an' shootin' 
 these dog-goned rebs — their fightin' aginst tlie Fourth of Ju- 
 ly would be enough, fur they're down on it, for begorra if 
 they'd walk over the Stars an' Stripes, divil a bit wild they 
 kape Fourth o' July. They'd tar and feather the Statue o' 
 Liberty, if they come across her, an' tear the f ithers out o' 
 the American agle to do it wid, but I'll not say where they'd 
 git the pitch, fur it's down in a hot climate. Yes, Pomp, 
 them lyin', thavin', bog-trottin' rascals tell us theSouth'sout 
 o' the tJnion. They're a lyin' set and drink whisky. What 
 ever's my fault, that's not one o' them. The South out o' the 
 Union ? It can't be did. Ye might as well try to eat army 
 bane soup wid a fork, as to git the South out o' the Union. 
 That's what's the matter. Pomp, if the South don't behave 
 hersilf we'll lick her, an' spakin' o' licker me most consarn- 
 ed dry, and I wish we could licker right away. As I said 
 before. Pomp, this is the Fourth o' July, an' I can lick any 
 one who says it ain't. It's made me as full of — yes it has 
 that I feel like a whole battery o' mortars, an'I'd jist liketo 
 have a shillelah fight wid about a half-dozen o' these blasted 
 greybacks, darn their, sneakin', thievin', picket- shootin' 
 dead-robbin' soldier-starving soavIs. They orterto be turned 
 into yailer dogs an' bate with white-oak switches, I'd ba 
 willin' to be convarted into a white oak tree, an' split into 
 switches to do it wid. I'm secesh all over, no, begona, I 
 mane I'm reb up to the handle, that's it, no I'm — no matter 
 what I am, I'm sound on the Union, ain't 1, Pomp? Why 
 my ould woman wud knock me two eyes into one, if I were 
 in favor of Jeff. Didn't I hear somebody say this is the 
 Fourth o' July ; if I did, it must be so. Yes, Pomp, this is 
 the Fourth o' July, an' anybody who goes back on it ought 
 to — {Pomp looks around, jumps up and runs round. Pat 
 catches him and asks the reason.) 
 
 Pomp — Clar to goodness, raassa, I se'ed a reb's head poking 
 out in dar. We'd better lebe here, or we'll be cotched. 
 
 Pat — Only one reb ? Sure an' are ye afraid o' a reb ? It's 
 mcsilf is not afraid o' a dozen. {Shot fired L., Pat runs out 
 JS., leaving Pomp alone) 
 
 Pomp — He ain't scared ? Dis chile wonders what made 
 hira spread hisself den ? Hi ! Golly, but he's arunnin, and 
 I'd better go too, cause I don't want to be chawad up by any 
 rebel gorilla. {Exit, M. Enter Wilson and Netta, L). 
 
 Netta — {Laughing) I guess, I've given Pat and Pomp, a 
 pretty good scare, judging by the way they left, 
 
 Wilson F — Ah, Netta, you are always playing jokes upon 
 
S8 
 
 some one, but her<j comes Walter. (Enter Waltei%B,.) Ah, 
 Walter, you're improvitig rapidly, and in a few days will be 
 as well as ever. 
 
 Walter — Yes, thanks to the care you and Netta hava taken 
 #>f me, while in the hospital, for, little as I deserved it, every 
 want and wish lias been supplied. I can never repay the 
 debt of gratitude I owe you. 
 
 Wilson — We performed only the duty ofcdmmon human- 
 ity. (Entsr messenger with package for Walter. He takes it, and 
 t^Ueittltj reads it.) 
 
 Waiter — An order for mj release, but which is now un- 
 necessary, inasmuch aa I do not intend to enter the rebel 
 lines again, in the character I sustained there until I was 
 wounded. 
 
 Wilson — Do you really mean what you say, Walter ? 
 
 Walter — I do. While in the hospital, I had ample time 
 to consider on the issues involved in this htruggle, which all 
 thought would end so soon, but which seems as far from 
 beine decided as at the beginning. In reviewing the past, I 
 saw the madness and foil}'^ of the course I had pursued, saw 
 myself an outcast from home, and in imagination beheld the 
 brand of traitor on my brow, and I resolved that I would not 
 a^ain unsheath my sword in defense of the foulest conspiracy 
 that ever disgraced mankind, but would aid in restoring 
 over every foot of our nation's soil, tliat glorious banner of 
 the Stars and Stripes, the emblem of liberty to the down- 
 trodden of all the nations of the eartii. 
 
 Wilson — May Heaven smile upon your resolution, mv 
 brother. This will be glorious news for father, will it not, 
 Netta ? 
 
 Netta — It will indeed, and now, Walter, the friendship yon 
 have so long desired, is yours. 
 
 Walter — Thanks, Netta. for your kind words, but let us 
 return for i desire, as soon as possible, to exchange this suit 
 of grey, for the more honorable one of blue. [Curiain.] 
 
 ACT V— SCRNE I. 
 
 Fairfax Mansion. Wilson and Netta B. ; Percy M. and 
 .JlaAtle, L. ; Walter ,i?. and back ; Mr. and Mrs. F.^ and Willie 
 .'.mied at center table ; Mr. F. reading, ; Mrs. F. and Willie, 
 playing chess, ; Walter sitting as if in deep thought ; the others 
 apparentlp engaged in conversation. 
 
 Wilson. — ^Father ha,Ye Generals Johnson and Taylor sur- 
 rendered yet? 
 
 Mr. F, — ^Yea, Wilsoo, they have, and I read in the army 
 
aews, tliat the army is to be disbanded, so that by the tirat; 
 vour furloughs have expired, your regiments will have re- 
 turned, and you can all remain at home, and enjoy the fruite 
 of the victories won by yourselves and your brave comrades 
 during the four years' bloody struggle for the safety of the 
 only government in which the people are not the victims of 
 oppression, and the playthings of tyrants. We have great 
 cause for happiness, have we not, mother? 
 
 Mrs.F. — Yes, father, we have,, although throughout the 
 land to-day there are hundreds of desolated homes and weep- 
 ing hearts, sorrowing for the loss of their dear ones, who gave 
 their lives as sacrifices for their country, and while we sym- 
 pathize with them in their affliction, yet we cannot but feel 
 thankful that ours have returned unscathed by the dangers 
 through which they have passed. 
 
 Mr. F. — There is yet another circumstance over which we 
 have cause to rejoice, that is the restoration of Walter to our 
 home circle, an occurrence that could never have taken place 
 had he persisted ivi battling against his country. But he 
 saw his error in time to remedy it and now, I am sure, feels 
 no regret at the humiliating defeat and overthrow of the 
 Southern Confederacy. Is it not so, .Walter? 
 
 Walter, — It is, father. Though led away at first by the 
 bright schernes placed before me by those taking an active 
 ■part in the rebellion, I soon began to feel that we were wrong, 
 and unworthy of success. For a time I fought against the 
 feeling, but, thanks to Miss Winthrop, and the influence 
 she brought to bear upon me, I was at last convinced, and I 
 hcjpe that the service I have since rendered to my country^ 
 has in part atoned for the injury done by my treason. I owe 
 ail my present happiness to Miss Winthrop, for, if it had 
 it not been for her, I would now be an outcast from home. 
 
 Wilson — Yes, and but for her,I too would have been an ab- 
 i4entee, sleeping in an unhonored grave, the victim of the 
 deadly hatred of two malignant enemies.. Ah, father, Netta 
 has proved herself a true friend to all of us. 
 
 Mr. F. — She has been a friend, but I hope to see her bear 
 a closer relationship. 
 
 Wilson — That hope will soon be realized, for she, who for • 
 so long a time followed the fortunes of war with the 19th, 
 has for a longer time been the promised bride of Wilson 
 Fairfax. But^where is Walter ? {Enter Walter with a lady.) 
 
 Walter — Here. Allow me to introduce to you, my prom- 
 ised bride, Miss Armstrong. [All seem surprised, except Mrs. 
 F.] This surprises you all, with the exception of dear 
 aoother. who has been my confiidant. An explanation will 
 
4.0 
 
 no doubt please yoi? all, and you shall be gratified. This lady 
 is the daughter of a Confederate officer whose acq uaintaince 1 
 forraed while in the rebel army. While outriding one 
 day, I rescued her from a party of soldiers, and the acquaint- 
 ance, so romantically begun, was continued. At the battle 
 of Antietam, her father fell mortally wounded, and dying he 
 confided his daughter to my care. On my return, I brought 
 her with me, and now, I have this request to make of all,. 
 Though her father fell battling against his eovintry, let me 
 hope that no unkind feelings will be cherished toward her 
 on that account, for though mourning his unhappy death, she,, 
 as well as myself, regrets that he fell not in defence of a no- 
 bler cause, but the past cannot be recalled. Then, let us forget 
 it, and think only of the happy present. And now, father, 
 one thing more is necessary to complete our happiness. 
 
 Mr. F.— And what is that, Walter ? 
 
 Walter — Your blessing on our union. 
 
 Wilson and Percy — And no ours. 
 
 Wilson and Netta, Percy R. and Hattie, kneel on R. of Mr. F. 
 Walter and J/iss Armstrong, on L. 
 
 Mr. F. — It is freely given. May Heaven bless your union 
 with prosperity and happiness, and also the re-union of our 
 country, and grant that it may not again be visited with the 
 miseries of war, and may the North and South ever remaip. 
 united in one destiny, and under one flag. 
 
 TABLEAU— UNITED UNDER ONE FLAG. 
 
 SCENE IL— Act v. 
 
 EPILOGUE— Spoken by Walter Faiefax. 
 
 SCENE III— Act v. 
 
 GRAND FINAL TABLEAU. 
 
 THE END. 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
 
 III 
 
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