PS 3535 .ei713 M8 1922 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS DDDDE7TE7D'=] ■\ '^> 0- ^^'^.'^ .v^ \ ^ V^^V %'^''/ \'^^\/ % MYRRHA: A TRAGEDY MYRRHA M Y R R H A: A Tragedy In Five Acts BY CHARLES V. H. ROBERTS AUTHOR OF " The Great Conspiracy," " The Call of Sorrow," etc. ILLUSTRA.TED BY BLANCHE BRINK Boston The Four Seas Company 1922 Copyright, 1^22, by THE FOUR SEAS COMPANY All rights are expressly reserved. For rights of public per- formance, address the publishers, wh(j are the author's agents. The Four Seas Press Boston, Mass., U. S. A. •cm 61126 TO MY SISTER MAR 30 1922 MYRRHA: A TRAGEDY lo MYRRHA Britannicus To make you, sweet, my wife. Myrrha Nay, nay, my lord. Britannicus For some days past, I've thought of telling you: It can be and it shall. You smile? Why, dear? Myrrha Britannicus, just let us be good friends. Britannicus Is that your choice? Myrrha Yes, why should I deny? Britannicus Sweet love ! Myrrha Pray do not say such things to me! Britannicus What reason, what prevents my speaking out? Myrrha Alas, ah whither, whither shall I fly? Britannicus I give you love — you are too young to know. Myrrha Rome makes me fearful: I am all alone. Britannicus Though Rome is cruel, maidens can be kind; Oft love creeps into kindness like a prayer. Myrrha No, no, Britannicus, no! no! MYRRHA II Britannicus Dear girl — ! Myrrha Be kind and have me for your lasting friend. Britannicus So be it; till I teach you, dear, to love. Myrrha Say not so much — we've been here now too long. Britannicus I cannot say too much when so much love Makes loving thoughts to utter loving words. [Enter Xenophon] Ah! Why intrudes the Court physician here? To show strange tricks? Xenophon ^ My age doth treble yours. Britannicus Stand you confessed of such senility? Xenophon I am content; fair fortune is our friend. Britannicus (impatiently) I ask what brings this sudden entrance, sir? What is the worst? Xenophon Your pardon, noble prince, — Your father had an illness slight. Britannicus That's strange. The slightest ills are those we'd best mistrust. Xenophon Not always, sir, 12 MYRRHA Myrrha One knows not what may chance. Xenophon I came to give the Empress my report. Britannicus It was suspected and I do believe — Ah well, pray tell me what is your report. Xenophon Airs well, and Claudius is recovering. [To himself] Death never yet has dulled the subtle charm, — The witchcraft hid in this profession; My art is to postpone the funeral day Yet overlook the murder 'neath mine eyes. [Exit through the door to the adjoining apartment, closing it behind him.] Britannicus Deceit is vain : he cannot hide his thoughts, — I'm sure it's not the truth that doctor speaks; But I shall wait until my step- dame comes And learn the facts; that is if truth be had Amid the chaos of intrigues hatched here Upon the Palatine. Myrrha I pity you. Britannicus We cannot use too much precaution here; In truth I cannot Agrippina trust. Myrrha Let us not worry, only do our part. MYRRHA 13 Britannicus Your part I have just asked of you. Myrrha Nay, nay, — Then falls all hope I built on friendship's base. Britannicus Fall too the plans I happily had framed, — that I'd find my death in glorious war. Myrrha (sadly) Yon know not, sure, the pains of war, dear lord, Which have reduced me to this slavery; To see the glory of a Hfe despoiled As mine of wealth and ease, sold, carried off, — [Dreamily] My home in Britain — I remember well — That morn the legions came and ruthlessly Did snatch me from my father's loving arms. The noblest he, and chief most loved of all Our noble tribe. I was his only child. 1 was his pride, his strength, his company; How oft he Hfted me upon his knees. And tenderly he stroked my wavy hair. He loved me, O you could not understand ! My heart doth swell as it would burst and break. Who could suspect the deadly snare? My sire Was then imprisoned in the Mamertine, Qiained there midst vilest slaves in filth and gloom. And there he died — the nearest to my heart, The greatest of the great. Accursed Rome! Britannicus Beloved one! I knew not of this crime. 14 MYRRHA Myrrha How base a doom for this most kingly man! A helpless captive reft of all he loved And lived for, in the very noon of life. O list! my father said before he died, **No hair of Myrrha's head shall e'er be harmed." Still now! I'm one of Agrippina's slaves. A slave to such as she — I had more hope. You speak of wedding me? You are the son Of Claudius, some day to rule as he In tyranny. Shall I a Roman wed? Britannicus For love's sake, hear me. Myrrha 'Tis impossible! Howe'er it wound my feelings, sir, I still Would be your friend. I'm not of lowly rank. Britannicus You bring as many thoughts as night wears stars. If you would Rome redeem, but be her queen. Myrrha Though I am honored, sir, still we must part; The crown of Rome does not concern my heart. There's something. Oh, much higher in my thoughts. Britannicus What do you mean? What cryptic words are these ? Your voice in strangeness makes Love musical. Myrrha Be kinder pray. "You bring as many thoughts- as night wears stars. If you would Rome redeem, but be her queen." Act I. Scene 1. MYRRHA IS Britannicus What more than this? O sweet! Myrrha Would you attend a tale o'erheard by me From one of the Augusta's maids — Britannicus Tell it To me. Myrrha 'Tis not of war, Britannicus, But something that's above all mortal things; Something the wise men ponder on. My lord, It was impossible to doubt her words. Britannicus Though I may doubt, still I would hear your tale. Myrrha From her sad voice and sympathy intense, She felt the story keenly she unrolled. 'Twas of a Hebrew come from Nazareth, A Carpenter by trade. He was adored By many of the Jews and called by some Selected few their God. Britannicus Your talk is strange. Myrrha List! "This was twenty years ago," she said; "His name was Christus" — as she spoke His name, The tear drops glistening filled her beauteous eyes And flowed unchecked : her sighing soul appeared Consumed in love, in prayer of fervency And tender gratitude to Him; in Faith i6 MYRRHA Consistent and unwavering and sure As granite hills. Her face grew then as soft As meadows sleeping in the moonlit vales Or seas a-dream in night's omnipotence. She told me many wondrous legends grown Familiar in the hills of Palestine. There have been many men, but never such A Man; His smile was softer than the dew At dusk ; though keen His energy of thought Beneath a halo of sublimity, His voice was tender and compassionate. As breathing unto earth new sympathies. All life's long tragedy became a joy As boundless as the sky's unmeasured arch Before the mission of this precious Guest. Uncharted seas of Death and mystery His eyes scanned, like twin angel ministrants Exploring for some undiscovered woes Beyond the paralyzing darknesses. This Christ foretold the storms ere wind-dropt cloud Had dimmed the sapphire cup of heaven, or stopped Aurora's steeds in gallop o'er the hills And vales and domes of Samaria's land. The winds and sea both heeded His command; The sick were healed: and cripples walked erect. Britannicus From whom did He get such rare mastery? Myrrha Oh list ! Britannicus, she told me more : MYRRHA 17 This Man could make the dead arise; those mourned As lost, return, and pay Him reverence From out the silence of their stony tombs. [Pause] Now there are some in Rome who say they've heard The Christus preaching of Eternity. Britannicus (musingly) Then Pontius Pilate in Judea ruled. Myrrha Now comes the tragic portion of this tale — The Jewish priests in jealousy assailed This Man (whose charms eclipsed all royal birth, Whose heavenly mission was to soothe and bless) Tfeey seized Him and condemned, for blasphemy. They scourged Him, mocked Him, giving Him a crown Of thorns, then crucified between two thieves. [Pause] Three hours He hung in pain, then died: 'twas writ That by his Death, redemption then was born. But when He died the sun withdrew its light. And tempests rang in wrath from out the clouds ; The dead arose and cerement-clad became As living things, made fleshly sounds and dropped Great drops of blood from blackening lips. These cursed With woes the people which had done this deed. That night the stars seemed to go mad in heaven, i8 MYRRHA The heathen gods before the Crucified Turned pale and swayed upon their pedestals While fear and quakings filled the shrieking air. [Pause] Friends took the mangled Body from the cross And laid Him in a tomb, then rolled a stone Before it. But still more, O wondrous more! She told me slowly, line by line, the tale Of Christus' love and great compassion, She, bathed in tears through her belief in all, I, listening, thrilled adown into my soul. Anon a smile stole o'er her tear-wet cheeks : "Behold!" she said, "upon the third day's dawn He rose as He had often prophesied To all of those who showed their faith in Him." O strange Return ! Celestial odors filled The air as bent the flowers before His tread Kissed by the robe that flowed about His feet. He moved in majesty divine of light, In calm repose across the vales redeemed And solaced in that Joy so long delayed. The multitudes then sang or laughed, some wept Before that tender, all inspiring smile In whose sweet light were sorrows lost, and pain Forgotten in the radiance of its peace; The holy brow showed neither age, nor marks Of earthly time. Each feature shone divine Beneath a circling ring of mystic light. The very winds blew harp-Uke chords from heaven Along the keys of Harmony sublime. MYRRHA 19 Upon the trees there seemed no single bough Nor leaf but stirred and moved in reverence. So Nature bowed to her Divinity As verdure spreads an altar for the Rose. They loved Him now, who doubted ere the Cross. They sought His mercy, King of Glory now: "O Light of life, illumine now our souls And judge us not according to our sins." There stood the Balm, Whose healing streams of love Flowed gently in the many thousand wounds Of dire afflictions and of sinfulness. Whom call you God if He was not a God? — Britannicus! Was He not very God? Five little senses dare not challenge Him Nor all the legions Time and Rome amass. "Bless us and pardon, and be pitiful." So spoke the multitudes surrounding Him. Some few weeks later — 'twas a morning bright, The hour when forest choirs pour out their souls In melody, — He stood on Olivet And comfort spake he to His disciples true. And others who in wonder followed Him. Adoringly they sought His eyes ; He blessed Them with His hands uplifted, prayed, then gazed Aloft, while on the languid mountain slopes The air grew tense with awesome mystery. He spoke then to the wondering multitude: "Know ye, yon sun reflects my Father's love: And when a tempest cometh on the earth 20 MYRRHA 'Tis oft the tears of angels shed in grief — For human sins and cold ingratitude/^ A golden cloud descended from the sky, Enveloping the Christus standing there. This mystic haze about Him wove a veil Of brilliant hues, He now commenced to rise; He paused, He gazed on high, majestical. And all the Memories of God uprose Omnipotently pulsing in His soul. Ascending slowly unto Paradise He lifted hands in blessing. Man redeemed From sin and death, His task was done ; thus He Returned again to heaven whence He came. Britannicus What may this mean? 'Tis madness all and yet What beautiful, divine beneficence! Myrrha "Remember then," said Agrippina's maid, — "All nations yet will pay Him reverence.*' Britannicus I've seen these Christians living here in Rome, A lowly lot for such a narrative. Myrrha But dear, my lord, I know the tale is true. Britannicus Sincerely and perhaps as truly told. Your Druids would not like this Israel-God. Myrrha His life was love: His doctrine all divine: His death the very sacrifice of God ! MYRRHA 21 No rock, no sepulchre could hold Him fast. He rose from death in such Divinity Of truth, of mercy and omnipotence, Before it Nature must admit herself A sage of faculty most limited. Britannicus What mystic teachings, or what influence Flow from this Christus, Myrrha, I know not; Ah will you judge me more unkind for that? Yet this I know, if Christus doth inspire Such purity as dwelleth in your soul, Your eyes, come, preach to me Eternity, Say: "Life is everlasting; Death is dead," Thou Rome, erect the grandest temple earth Hath ever known, for Him they crucified. Myrrha And so Rome will, my lord, Rome will, Rome will ! [Voices heard approaching] [Britannicus, rising, looks into the hall] Britannicus Hark, hark, I hear, see there the Empress coming. And by her limps Locusta, hateful witch — ! Surely that means some mischief is astir. Myrrha I hate your Empress, she is hard to all; Her heart is granite and her veins are ice. Britannicus Hush, hush! such words o'erheard might mean your death; The frailest thought expressed is dangerous. 22 MYRRHA She builds mock thrones for her own son, — she dreams That he will be the next to rule in Rome; Imperial Caesar's title comes to me. Curtain SCENE II A few moments later. Place — Rome Scene 2 : In one of the magnificent private reception apart- ments of the Empress Agrippina in the Palace of the Caesars. The room is decorated with every resource of art. On the right especially prominent is the Empress* couch enriched with gilding and ivory. Adjacent to this is seen a large opening evidently leading to the inner apartments, in front of which hang handsome curtains. To the left is a doorway leading to the outer halls. The room is hightly illuminated. The lights glint on statues of gold and silver, on marble bas-relief and on the walls glowing with painted peacocks, winged genii and graceful arabesques. About are vases of perfumes, incense and spices, and other MYRRHA 23 appointments all of the most costly, rich in har- mony of color and design. [Enter Agrippina and Locusta] Agrippina Well! what's the matter? speak! Locusta The deed is done. Agrippina You say to me "the deed is done" — fie, fie! I trifle not with you, your schemes scent blood Like those of hags infernal loosed from hell. Locusta But of necessity, for Fm a slave. Agrippina 'Tis said she-devils walk on cloven feet; You are too insolent to value life. Locusta My art in poisoning called forth your smile; I was your handmaid most obedient. The Emp'ror's dead. With him at rest, you have Your wish more sure than by the law's decrees Which bandy logic on a waxen scroll. Agrippina For my soul's peace begone! Locusta The Emp'ror's dead. Now has my lady further need of me? Agrippina I'm filled with doubts, you have a scoffer's eyes. 24 MYRRHA LOCUSTA Nay, rather thank mine art, which wisely though Unjustly struck the just. Agrippina Tis well, now go! And do not prowl about — get to your room. [Exit Locusta] Ah why should I be trembling at the whims Of this vile slave whose machinations have Released Rome of a Caesar's villainy? I'm not unlearned in the lore of schemes ; All now submits to my despotic sway. Yet this I've done for Rome. Germanicus, Thy daughter never yet has stooped to shame In banquet hall nor for carnality Inspired by Venus served in shames of lust; The gossip for such vices names not me. Law to ourselves is to be virtuous Still virtue needs to have her share of power ; So it is well that Claudius is dead. Locusta's fatal mushroom wrought good work Dripping foul poison from its velvet rims. [Sighing] I am most weary, but I must not sleep For then remorseful dreams oppress my heart And tune dull conscience into energy. Disturbed thoughts need not apologize For acts whose benefits are not matured. Now I will here cast off my crown as queen Remembering only now a mother's claims. How wonderful a thing is mother's love! MYRRHA 25 That love would rather stoop in beggars' rags And kiss her children's feet than give her lips Unto a kneeling king. So Nature rules Despite the curse of our domestic ills With all the stratagems which they demand. Though crime here whispers from the dangling stars Their lights will soothe the front of my offense. Consume the past in all forgiving fire When my son Nero is crowned Emperor. [Enter Xenophon. He turns, pushes aside the curtains and points to the body of the poisoned Emperor who is discovered lying on a couch.] Xenophon He's had his due and passed. Agripmna {with agitation) What then? What now? His erring course is ended; Nero lives To grace the throne of Rome. Xenophon {aside to himself) She is content; More cruel marks of history are there; By woman's fury deeply scarred and oft. [Agrtppina moves through the entrance, stands and looks down coldly at her dead husband.] Agrippina Farewell my spouse, poor shuffled heap of dust! The grave-worm now will scrawl thine elegies. Canst thou provoke me more fond Claudius Since Death has drawn the blood from out thy cheeks ? 26 MYRRHA No more warm kisses for thy frozen lips; Thou hast at banquet crammed thy last full meal, While in my bed thy viperous breath shall ne'er Again disturb the sweet delights of sleep. Should I be disrespectful to the dead? Xenophon (impatiently) What profit persecuting senseless clay? Agrippina Let us be on our guard. Xenophon Trust me, 111 not Betray ; the state now stands secure. Agrippina Ah, yes; Hence go in haste and the Praetorians tell. [Pointing towards the corpse^ But first, O master doctor, draw those veils. That thing, that nothing has a ghastly smile. Xenophon Fear not my queen — Agrippina {nervously) I did not say I feared ; But I'll not stand and argue right and wrong. Xenophon There'll be some discontent, some rumours wild Because here still survives the lawful heir. Agrippina {removing some of her jewels) Pour out these pearls and give them bars of gold. Go, use your judgment as to this event; Fear not for your reward; it shall suffice. MYRRHA 27 Xenophon {aside to himself) A woman's promise is a cheap return. Agrippina If your profession would be long esteemed Place this beyond suspicion now, and blame. [Exit Xenophon through doorway leading to outer halls.] Oft Opportunity's a friend unseen In this long life of looking at the skies ; And so, as we meet Riches' great advance Likewise greet Opportunity; improve The fleeting moments when it visits us, The seasons then will fall in rare success Upon the year of our ambitious hopes. [Enter a Soothsayer] [Agrippina noticing his timidity] Why, why old man, why do you shrink from me? Throw wide the star- routes — time was made for use. Soothsayer Divine Augusta, wouldst thou have the truth? Agrippina Quick tell me all. Soothsayer But all takes several ways. Agrippina Are there uncommon portents in the skies? Soothsayer If thou hast erred, be glad if thou art blamed: Most sure shall Nero reign. 28 MYRRHA Agrippina (smiling) Is erring there? Soothsayer I could not counterfeit; wouldst thou hear more? Agrippina What do you mean? — go on. Soothsayer Thy son shall reign But kill his mother. Agrippina (angrily) Liar! by the gods! If that's the scroll you read within your globe Of starry craft and feigning signs, I want No more of such deceitful augury. What witness have you for this cobwebbed lie? Soothsayer Man cannot change the course of stars, nor strip The skies of Fate-made garments spun in storm And death — Agrippina Out, ere I slay you, mouth of guile ! [Exit Soothsayer] [Agrippina rises and with her hands clasped behind her head walks hack and forth.] I had forbidden any Fate unknown To come into my presence — fie, fie, fie ! Why did I parley with that conjurer Who lets the stars grin down out of the clouds To fill the crystal of his prophet-orb With pictures of my son — a matricide? What gods may be I know not. Yet I know MYRRHA 29 'Tis to his mother Nero owes his life, Hence I've no fear that he will injure her. [Enter Octavia and Britannicus] Britannicus (anxiously, then turning to enter the adjoining room) You sent for us? Is father still asleep? Agrippina {smiling) Do not disturb your father, he must rest, Britannicus The doctor said the Emperor was well — Agrippina It's true — he's out of pain. Octavia {aside to herself) O how I hate Her studied whim-whams and her treachery. [Addressing Agrippina] What care we for reports? I'll see my sire. Agrippina {standing betzveen them and the curtains) Have patience, both of you. Octavia Did heaven look on? Agrippina Be happy dear Octavia: he is well. Octavia {impatiently and with slight sarcasm) I thank you ; but since I am not your child, — Since kindly Nature holds that I am his, Have you this right to stand between us now? Agrippina {with growing annoyance and anger) Yes, I'm his wife, and Empress too, of Rome : Though all the daughter in your heart may rise 30 MYRRHA To drown the wife, the Empress still commands. You shall not see my husband until morn. Britannicus I think we'd better wait, Octavia. Our love should not by any chance, through lack Of patience cause him to relapse. Octavia Still, I'm Not satisfied. I wish to see him now. Agrippina (pushing aside the curtains, but not per- mitting them to enter) Come, through the curtains — look, now see — he sleeps. Britannicus (gazing fixedly through the opening) But everything within seems still. Agrippina It's fit It should be so. Pray children, now withdraw. The Empire asks this boon of you. Goodnight. Octavia (to herself) She planned this scene which we now act — I know. I do not trust her. Why then do I go? Britannicus Before the morning dawns we will return. [Exeunt Britannicus and Octavia] Agrippina (with a long sigh of relief) Octavia seemed ready to suspect The worst. So I did wisely when I drew Aside those curtains. 'Twill be troublesome Enough to comfort them tomorrow mom, — Confronted then with their calamity. MYRRHA 31 This tragedy is no concern of mine; Now Caesar's title to my son belongs, But Agrippina still shall rule the world. [Approaching sounds of laughter] [Enter Nero half-intoxicated] Nero O breathing world! I cannot see my own hand held thus before my face. Is this room filled with smoke or perfume? Holy gods! rejoice with me — sweet are the dews of night when Acte's kisses rain like dripping combs of honey. Ah, wine makes us — makes us happy — makes us kings. Emperors, Caesars. But who — who took me from Acte? Agrippina Come here to me. (to herself) A fit beginning of his reign. Nero Hell and damnation! Death to the fellow. Jealous! What's that? Why, pray what woman would have an eye for anyone but me, after she hears my latest verse? I keep company with none of the sex who do not appreciate poetry; and Acte's eyes flash fire when I recite. Agrippina (loudly) Nero — Nero (^looking up) Goddess of day, goddess of night, rejoice! (rec- ognizing his mother) Pardon me, mother, most 32 MYRRHA praised, most loved mother, most ex-ex-excel- lent mother. Agrippina Have sense hereafter, sir, for due respect. Nero Thy praise doth wander through the eyes of stars. O Bacchus, mother, see the waking stars. Oh, my Falemian — Agrippina Silence, silence, son! You Nero, hardly know what precious gifts May rise to glad you from a mother's love. Nero Look you there, madam, who could in justice love and not love his mother best? I'm a frank person. I love to be envied, and the only love I envy is a mother's love. Who can match its faith and constancy? If you have a beautiful and loving mistress, she will only be beautiful and loving as long as you give her jewels, a table full of dainties and a play-house full of rogues. No, this is not a poet's imagination, but the flesh and blood of a poet who has had mistresses among the choicest Rome affords. Agrippina But not a wife, my son, remember that ! Nero Beautiful word "wife." Why put me on the rack at seventeen summers and nip each inch of man- hood out of me with the pin pricks of a creeping plague? Marriage may be discretion's law, but MYRRHA 33 if there's an atom of right in connubial bliss, the cure is worse than the offense. Agrippina You never have been married, Nero. Nero No, mother, but you have. Therefore, I think I apprehend the mood. The smirks of Claudius have not been pleasing to your eyes. I am sobered now, what is it you want of me? [Sudden sounds of acclamation are heard from without the Palace; they grow louder and louder, distinguished by cries of "Nero" "Nero Caesar,'' "Nero Imperator." A few hut rather feeble and discordant cries are heard acclaiming for Britan- NICUS.] [Enter Burrus] Nero Burrus, thine eyes are like a Basilisk's : If it be needful, scruple not to speak. Burrus The Emp'ror's dead. Hail, Nero! Caesar, now. [Nero starts and appears to grow more sober.] Nero "Hail Caesar" — Burrus? "Caesar" sayest thou? I had not hoped so soon to wear the name. Burrus The tidings of his death have spread abroad. [Shouts from without] Nero {looking inquiringly and anxiously towards Agrippina) 34 MYRRHA He hails me "Caesar," mother, what means this? 'Tis no fit time to utter such a jest. Voices from without Apollo Nero! Nero Hercules! Agrippina {proudly) Hail Caesar! [The Empress moves, pulls aside the curtains and beckons Nero to enter the room. He crosses the threshold and is seen gating down at the body of Claudius. ] Nero {coming out of the room) I will look no more but learn. [Turning to Agrippina] Tell me of this and by whom was it done? For Caesar's deaths are seldom natural. Agrippina For strokes of Fate, I cannot answer, son. [Shouts from without of ''Nero, Imperator."] Nero A thousand thunders! hail me "Caesar?" No! — Give me instead red grapes and lovely maids, — Agrippina I do not understand, you must be mad. Nero Let bulls and rams rule Rome, not poets, now ! Agrippina You are not just to me ! Nero Treason has such A smooth brow, mother. MYRRHA 35 Voices from without Nero Caesar! Hail! Nero Ah, that sounds wondrous well, but I'm no fool: The safest life is that which is unborn. If there's no spark of soul, there's none to kill; And wisest he who sits off thrones in Rome ; I'll not be meat for Brutus' knife to carve. Agrippin A You are a coward. Nero Women love to rule By tongue at least. Agrippina Thou ingrate, silence, sir! Nero Look there within ! what mock me too ? Nay, nay ! A wreath, or crown, a scrap of tinsel sun, The victor's robes, conspiracies, then death; A Caesar knows how best to foully die ; I'll not be Caesar — I refuse the crown And choose my time to immortality. BURRUS But Rome was never honored so before. I know thy modesty; but Caesar mark. The throne invites a god and not a king. Nero "A god and not a king," why, — that sounds well. BURRUS Aye, through thy great prerogative of verse Thou art by style and state immortalized; 36 MYRRHA Hence Death's authority is overthrown Forever on this seven-mountained Rome. Nero {after long thought) They want me Emperor? BURRUS Nay, deity. Our fount of eloquence! Nero Then shall it be. BuRRUS Apollo, Nero, Imperator! — Hail! Agrippina {to herself eyeing her son rather suspi- ciously) A deity brings no conclusions here; Means he may use — or, if he choose, misuse. Nero {proudly) Though I was born to rival Homer, blind, ril operate for Rome's embellishment And progeny of nobleness; 'tis well! Now will my god-like genius change the world. Agrippina {aside to herself, looking sharply towards BuRRUS and Nero) Fair words may open many catalogues Of character, and for the time, at least, Make cowards walk with bravery's pedigree. I do not like this weakness in my son; This flattery will edge his appetite And so rob me of half my victory. [Enter Seneca] Seneca My greetings, Caesar! Greetings, royal youth! MYRRHA 37 Behold how now the stress of ages calls For readjustment. Nero Seneca, although Old realms may terminate and new commence, My throne shall shine by your philosophy. Seneca 'Tis easier to give advice than take. Nero The Caesar's power is counsel absolute. Seneca What one day gives another takes away. Thus power must with discretion tempered be. Agrippina (calling Seneca aside as Nero turns again to talk with BuRRUs) Why do you argue with him here? He seems To be too easily moved by flattery And will I fear get soon beyond control. Seneca (with slight expression of contempt) 111 acts through ill must bring their own reward. Agrippina Most deeds I do, I do for Rome, my friend. And hence I feel tonight most woe-begone. Seneca Our miseries are endless, lady, if We stand in fear of possibilities. Agrippina (to herself) I do not sin, it's one within me sins Who leaves the body but remembering guilt. Seneca Since you have what you wished, Augusta, be 38 MYRRHA satisfied. No one should fear, no one should shriek out in remorse who goes to himself for what he wants. Our minds are above fortune, but our deeds are our own; therefore, do not rail against Fate, do not be unjust to the gods. The fear of anything is slavery, the contempt of it is liberty. Agrippina (glancing into the room where the body of Claudius lies) Do you not fear death? What it is to die? Seneca Not at all, dear lady. Death is the certainty of visions gone, before which Life played mere jester. But why such thoughts in this hour of your triumph? Death is just as much a debt as money and no man should fear to pay his debts; furthermore, to suffer death is the law of Nature, and it is a great comfort that it can be done but once. Agrippina O inconstant man! I say no more. Seneca (aside to himself) Better to die, than that its deadly thoughts Should seize the mind; for then the soul becomes A Hell within, where wretched errors take The shape of devils, and transgressions reign; So vilest thoughts with rankest deeds must range. And by their own abuses reckon up Through these short-numbered hours of fickle Time The debt that's due to sovereign Deities. MYRRHA 39 [Turning to Nero] Good-night, my royal pupil; now that you Are master of the world, heed still my rede, But heed especially your mother's voice. A mother, Nero, is the noblest gift The gods bestow on man, more precious far Than all the treasures of humanity. If you have dark and secret discontents And sorrows gnawing frail mortality Most fitting is it you should go to her Whose love endures with unextinguished fire. Nero I am most indebted to you both; the one-half of my executions shall be based on your good phil- osophy, the other on the example of my noble mother. Seneca (to Burrus) Put on him now the purple and the crown. [To Nero] Tomorrow we'll attend you to the Court. [Exeunt Seneca and Burrus] Nero (turning to his mother) Just and inevitable that I reign! Agrippina But why idealize yourself a god? Nero To set things right — 'tis what the mob admires. Now will I overstar the splendid stars Of night, outstorm the sea's untimely rage From anguished continents to distant isles; 40 MYRRHA Then on the skies' prodigious meteors ril build a palace made of gold and pearls. Agrippina Wade not too far, my boy, in waves of pride; You owe this glory all to me. The throne We two shall share — together rule the world. Nero Together ? Agrippina Both. Nero Nay, why not I alone. To rule it through mine own integrity? Agrippina (aside to herself) Ha ! there's an alteration in his soul. [Aloud] For two can rule with somewhat greater power. Nero (to himself, noticing his mother^ s distress) I will be Caesar, but I'll humor her. [Aloud] Well, as you will, so be it mother mine: Within our realm there shall be perfect trust And tyranny shall fall. Agrippina So may it be! Nero As once my ends were yours, so doubly now. A happy era draws upon the world: Let never man believe in happiness. Who not was bom, nor lived in Nero's time. MYRRHA 41 Agrippina Hail Nero Imperator, Caesar hail! [Smiling] Remember, though, that Caesars are not gods. Nero Now I must go. Agrippina And why? Nero To Acte's home: Farewell, dear mother, till tomorrow morn. [Exit Nero] Agrippina (looking towards Nero as he retires) 'Tis almost finished now. There's little more To do. [Shouts from without] The multitude he called his friends ! Poor Claudius, dost see what issue takes Thy plans when Death with cold and perfect poise Enfolds thee on thy pyre? Ha, ha, 'tis well! And yonder stars are falling down, great gems For me to girdle, blind and bind the world. I must wed Nero to Octavia, Both to preserve the Augustinian line And wean him from this Acte, lowly born. Youth without prudence chooses oft those loves Most unbefitting to nobility. Age may do what is right, youth what it lists. Octavia knows little of intrigues; Their nuptials be my step behind the throne. 42 MYRRHA One move could ruin all; let me take time But it must not be needlessly delayed. [Enter Britannicus followed by Octavia] OCTAVIA Alas my father! woe and misery! [Glaring at her stepmother] You stand, you look compassionating me? Away! mine eyes are opened to your lies. My poor dear father ! hear me : look on me I For one short moment open your dear eyes. [Sobbing] This is Octavia, your little girl! I am so full of woe. Will you not speak? Will you not clasp your child, cold loving arms? See now I come to claim you. Why, oh why Can I not with my strength raise you from this Cold helplessness ? Agrippina {aside to herself) I cannot bear this scene. [Aloud] Good-night, Britannicus, I'd best leave you And you, Octavia, with your heavy grief. [Glancing at the corpse] The worst day of one's life is oft the last, Well, Claudius, for you that day is past. [Exit Agrippina] Britannicus {standing closely beside Octavia and gazing on his dead father's face.) Ah, father dear, nobility's bright seal Is still upon your countenance, and from Your brow life's majesty hath not ^et fled, MYRRHA 43 Must soon these features fail : and soon your lips, Your cheeks grow pale, relinquish beauty's pride For dusts that bargain with the careless winds? About this wreck is something royal still Which mighty Death respects. From these closed eyes Immortal longings reach beyond the stars And live. Though life in time must end, — the soul Shall never die, that warmed this kingly brow, This canopy of thoughts mysterious seat; Not all our deeds and works, our hopes and loves Shall shrink and narrow down to nothingness In crumbling clay. Death leads to fuller life! little self so lost in jungle-wilds Of vanity! How quickly Death will feed In all its millon cruel ways on this Our one imagined godhead, wondrous self! OCTAVIA We stand tonight upon a precipice. Britannicus 'Tis drawing near to dawn, — we must retire. OcTAVIA No, no, I cannot go! what shall I do? 1 trust her not — I trust not Agrippine! She shakes her head and mutters sympathy. My noble father! O you sifting dusts. Dear relics of our childhood, you cry out Perhaps against oblivion; while we Still live and feel; we hear your voice, strange, strong, Compassionate. By this last kiss — to these 44 MYRRHA Poor streaming eyes O turn and hear me call And pity my estate. Britannicus Dear sister, come. [Enter Myrrha] [The girl steals softly towards the adjoining room, peers in, turns back, then kneels quietly upon the floor. ] Myrrha (clasping her hands in prayer) O Christus, Christus, Prince of Mystery! Thine Advent here, let it be now proclaimed; Thou Miracle of God — Redeemer, Thou Bring comfort to these children in their grief. CURTAIN ACT II ACT II Time— Two years later. Place— Rome Scene i : A street. In the background are distant palaces. To the left a fountain of Neptune is plashing. As the curtain rises a half -grown lad is discovered sitting on the base rim of the fountain and sobbing bitterly. [Enter Britannicus] Britannicus What is your name ? Why do you weep, my Uttle man? Epictetus They call me Epictetus ; I am the slave of Epaph- roditus the Emperor's secretary. I fell and hurt my leg against this fountain. Nay! Do not be angry with me, I will bear the pain. Britannicus It surely was a heavy fall to so have lamed you. You must have twisted your leg. Epictetus My leg was broken, Prince, but not by accident, as I shall tell you. I was deformed from birth and useless: still, my master thought that he 45 46 MYRRHA might turn me to some good account by teaching me philosophy. Therefore, he made me book carrier to his son, who attends the lectures of Musonius Rufus. Musonius was good and kind, allowing me to sit near by and listen. Fm not a stoic as yet but I shall try some day to be. Britannicus But you are not telling me about your hurt: how did you become so lame? Epictetus Some weeks ago, most noble Prince, it chanced, As I was walking past the Aventine, I met a leader of this Jewish sect, This Christian superstition, now in Rome: And spreading in Trans-Tiber rapidly. Britannicus (frowning) Who is their leader? Epictetus Paul of Tarsus, Prince. A Jew by birth, quite bent with age. He then With Rufus of Cyrene, Simon's son, Held converse and I loitered there to hear. I heard him say how Simon gave some aid When Christus bore His Cross to Calvary. Then Paulus spoke to all. There was indeed Much good in his philosophy, — I felt Forthwith impelled to spring and cast myself Before his dust-stained feet. "Be comforted," He said, "in sickness and in dire distress, In all of life's afflictions strive by Faith. MYRRHA 47 And be against earth's sin and vanity, Strong doers of the good, nor merely hear." He had a gracious countenance and what He said seemed true, and right, and beautiful: His statement calm, and majesty of phrase His teaching certified, — it banished doubt. "Him Peter, John and many others saw Upon the third day risen from the dead; And spoke with Him in old Jerusalem. They saw Him rise in glory to the sky. Myself beheld the Christ, when from my horse Upon Damascus road, in blinding light He struck me in my pride and bade me cease My persecution of His followers. First, let your wisdom show that we speak false,— This testimony may not be denied. So many trusty witnesses affirm." So spoke the Jew, and it was hard to doubt. My master then appeared and angrily Rebuked me for my loitering; he bade Return with him to pay the penalty In pain, for listening to seditious speech. Straightwith he ordered that they twist my leg. This hurt me terribly, but I had heard The words of Paulus bidding to endure. I only cried, *Tf thou dost go on thus, Thou'lt surely break my leg." He did go on. He broke my leg. I did not cry out then, And I'm ashamed to be seen weeping now. O that I'd never seen the walls of Rome, 48 MYRRHA But could return to bright resplendent Greece, To see its palaces and shrines again! Britannicus Poor lad! Come with me to my sister, she Is kind and will I'm sure relieve your pains. Let's not be sorrowful, for grief the gods Offends. Epictetus The Empress is beloved by all. Britannicus This Paulus here, of Tarsus, — let me hear, — Say on, what more you know, — where dwells he? Tell With whom consorting, while he bides in Rome? Epictetus He preached in Ephesus, in Corinth too, Philippi and in Thessalonica ; My lord, his wisdom seems in many ways Pro founder than the learning here in Rome. He teaches of a life beyond the tomb, And that his Master was the Son of God. Britannicus And, Epictetus, where is his abode? Epictetus The house of Aulus Plautius knows him well : 'Tis said in fact the noble Aulus' wife Has now embraced this Faith. Britannicus There you are wrong : Pomponia would not heed such foolish talk. MYRRHA 49 Epictetus (seriously) There must be One who scattered seeds of stars, Created years, from chaos drew this earth; Then breathed the immortal soul and life in man. Britannicus Yours is most amateur philosophy; Musonius surely, never taught you that ! Epictetus (glancing down the street) See Paul of Tarsus coming now, this way: The people gaze upon him curiously. Britannicus (looking in the direction indicated by his companion) Stand by, my lad, and I will speak with him : Indeed, there's something noble in his mien. [Enter Paulus of Tarsus] [The Apostle is seen to be slightly bent with age, but has in his step the carriage of a Roman patri- cian. ] Britannicus Hail, Jew! Paulus A Roman citizen, as well. [Recognizing Britannicus] Greetings, my lord, our Prince Britannicus. Britannicus And whither are you going? answer, friend. Paulus About my business. Prince. Britannicus That may be well, But durst thou answer thus when Ceasar speaks? 50 MYRRHA Paulus (calmly) I render unto Caesar what is his. Britannicus Our only homage unto Caesar is: What is your work? Paulus My Master's. Britannicus Pray, good sir. Whom do you serve? Paulus I serve the Son of Man. Britannicus (with irritation) Speak not in riddles, Jew. Why, who is He? What right have you to use the tongue of gods? Paulus Your pardon. Prince, I use the tongue of Faith, Revealing clear the Infinite in man. Is't error if in this deceitful world I preach the truth? Nay, you agree with me? Britannicus There is some force of precept in your words, A splendid oneness in your politics. But why disdain our Empire's noble gods? Be careful of such rhetoric, my friend. Paulus I speak quite plainly out, perhaps a fault. Dear Prince, your noble spirit must perceive That vice is over all the world, and Rome A lighted candle melting fast. What good These palaces, this mass of pinnacles MYRRHA 51 Moulding this thing or that into a god? Of neither "gods" nor "goddess" does He hear. One guide, one Saviour is my pilgrimage; There is nor Greek, nor Jew, barbarian, Nor bond, nor free; but Christ is all — in all. I speak in words to heal the broken heart. To sooth the sorrows of a weeping world, To turn the emptiness of evil, Prince, To fullest worth and living deeds of good. I bring salvation from the Son of Man. Britannicus Here no conditions, no decrees of man May dare control the dark frontiers of Death ; The noblest forms shrink to the common dust. In that foul prison none again may breathe: — Paulus When I yield up this breath, I live to breathe Eternal Happiness — His promise true. The promise of the Risen Lord. Britannicus Ha, ha. You are a Christian then — a worshipper Of Him whom Pontius Pilate crucified? Paulus But testified he found no fault in Him. Britannicus Will you not render unto Caesar, Jew? Paulus Yes, Prince, as I have told you, what is his — My Master was specific in those words: 52 MYRRHA With due allegiance I obey Rome's laws ; No man may rule the kingdom of the soul. Britannicus This Christianity is treason, sir. Paulus How so? We come as teachers not as foes. The path of righteousness in essence is The same though different in its forms. The sea Is one, yet on its many shores are found And blent through ages varied tribes and tongues And natures widely different, minds distinct, Ripened in power or philosophy : For all the mountain peaks of Right are one Standing immovable and stony-hard ; Day has its changing gold, night fickle arts But heaven's starry necklace is the same Fore'er encircling Time's vast, heaving sea. Truth like the stars gives little notice. Prince, To movements and short-comings of the world. Britannicus (looking at Epictetus and smiling) Indeed, that's not such poor philosophy. Paulus Nothing that's great or good can treason be. Britannicus (to himself) Something there is that draws me to this man, An influence I felt but once before When Myrrha told me first this Christus tale. [To Paulus] Old Jew, I do believe you are sincere. Pray, tell me, sir, where you are going now. That I myself may hear your ministry. MYRRHA 53 You know my lot upon the Palatine Is not especially a happy one. Fear not that I'll betray your mysteries : There's still a soul within the Claudii That will find virtue if 'tis hid in Rome. Paulus You are a friend, and I believe you true. Britannicus Choose me to prove it, Paulus. Paulus Good, my lord. Unto the house of Aulus Plautius come, Christ's teachings there I will relate to you, In no way hurtful to the minds of Rome And most befitting your nobility. [Enter Tigellinus with a file of soldiers] TiGELLiNus (calling t-wo of his men and pointing to Paulus) Arrest that man and pending my commands Have him imprisoned in the Mamertine. Britannicus {turning suddenly upon Tigellinus) Upon what edict, prefect? gently, now. [Turning to the soldiers] A\^ithhold those chains. Tigellinus {recognizing Britannicus) Shall I be chid—? Britannicus Obey. Tigellinus But surely Prince, street brawls are not for you. 54 MYRRHA Britannicus I asked why you have seized upon this man? So far I note you have not answered me. TiGELLINUS On orders from the sacred Emperor. Britannicus Is not there noble blood beneath gray hairs? You shall do nothing to this guiltless man. Show me your warrant, TigeUinus; oft You know there's little good in argument. TiGELLINUS (becoming angry) Can Caesar's brother find him nought to do Except defend and chat with lowly slaves? Where are the precepts of the Palatine? Britannicus (white with rage) Control your insolence ! Since when good sir, Is son of Claudius and of Mes saline Acountable to TigeUinus for His friends? You grow presumptuous, I say. You have no warrant for this man — you lie ! Release him, must I bid you twice? If so, By all the gods, sir prefect, I declare Your veins before tomorrow shall be drained. TiGELLINUS (controlling his anger and motioning the guards to release Paulus) These Christians look not well to Nero's eyes : He will make much of what you hold for nought. Britannicus That is poor patterned sample from your tongue ; With Nero, I myself will settle this. Come, Jew; come, boy, let us be on our way. MYRRHA 55 [Exeunt Britannicus, Paulus and Epictetus] TiGELLiNus (to himself) Chafe not Praetorian pride too far, young man. Your credit doth not stand so well at court. You shall repay me this embarrassment, For I can Nero ply with perfect ease. Already is it rumored that the Queen, Whose mind ambition rules with despot sway Will threaten to enthrone Britannicus Where she has just so foully set her son. [Smiling maliciously] A ruin, trust me, shall conclude this all. Fear harrows Nero's soul, — the loss of throne Usurped: — to what extremes he then may go. Who knows ? Why tarry o'er my cherished plans ? Great resolutions waver if we wait, Much thought intimidates the strongest heart. I shall begin to-night; revenge may yet Surpass those crimes now in the palace rife. Curtain 56 MYRRHA SCENE II A few days later. Scene 2 : Same as Act I. Scene 2. As the curtain rises, Agrippma is discovered sitting on a couch. She is arguing in rather loud tones with Seneca. The philosopher is pacing back and forth. Agrippina I feel at my wit's end. Seneca How so? Why scan With troubled eyes these boyish loves ? Agrippina Discourse ! Discourse and argue! piling word on word! Seneca Why make a tomb of youth's affections? Agrippina Of this be sure, my own's my own. Seneca And so — ? Agrippina His low intrigue with Otho's wife must cease; Poppaea soon will fill this court with shame. You scoff at my distress — what have I done? Seneca (to himself) To argument is evil mind averse, For fear it break down mischief's premises. MYRRHA 57 Agrippina My son shall not divorce Octavia. Seneca (to himself) Is such the waking of her finer sense? [Aloud] She's barren — marriage is Hke casting dice. He should have sons. Agrippina By this Poppaea ? No ! Divorce is prostitution legalized, Oft hazards brings, and always self-reproach. Seneca I pray the gods, in good or evil times That I may ne'er with woman argue long. Agrippina A woman's aim should be above divorce. Seneca Your son's a man. Agrippina (sarcastically) To do then what he wills? I praise your wit decreeing right or wrong: A man ! you men may do your wrong, and time, My friend, will cast its shadow o'er the crime; But let a woman lose her goodly name She then is doomed to everlasting shame. Seneca (cynically) Such novel dogmas on the Palatine; The question is of Nero, is it not? Agrippina At least Octavia holds her tongue; 'tis well; She does not interfere in state affairs. 58 MYRRHA Seneca While Nero trifles you can rule in peace — He better toys with women than with Rome. Agrippina Now what has put this madness in your head? No, no ! Poppaea has no soul at all, She has ambition, and is beautiful, But conscienceless she'd gladly seize the throne; Besides my son shall not defile his wife; For Rome shall have an Empress not a bawd. I made him Caesar, do you understand? Seneca Lady — Agrippina You cannot baffle me with your evasions. Go teach him singing, dancing, masquerading, verse-making, stage-playing, any bragging art, and Greek buffoonery before a lot of fawning dogs ; but his mother, she — I will answer for his heart. I will be the touchstone for my son's virtue. Seneca But that's not all, you must be wise as well. Trust not that Nero will be swayed at will, Especially from this intrigue of his ; Change for the worse oft follows good advice. That much I fear. Agrippina Hence trust it to my care. Seneca The glamour of a crown on youthful brows MYRRHA 59 Will not yield mildly to a mother's word — It glows the stronger for opposing it. Agrippina A fine conclusion — you are frank at least, But I will handle family affairs. Seneca Since you have spoken, Madam, I'll retire. The flame you've kindled may be hard to quench. Farewell, my Empress. [Exit Seneca] Agrippina (to herself) Whom shall I invoke? A plague on Seneca's philosophy! Besides, he knows not all, and like a fool I stand and listen to a dreamer's trash. Security of mind! where art thou flown? These hands shall not be severed from their power By this alluring wanton Nero's found. When all is done a mother's rule is best, This even when 'tis o'er an Emperor. Say that I must be cautious, humble too, Before this puny phantom I have raised? Will Nero learn to heed the voice of duty? Avoid the damning, tempting devils here At court? They grin at us in graven gods Beneath each temple-roof. He must be led, — And yet, I fear it will awaken strife. [Enter Nero] Nero (impatiently) Your message calls for comment, here I am. 'Tis novel Caesar answers a command. 6o MYRRHA Agrippina Not so, I am your mother always, sir, To whom you ever owe a son's respect. Nero Before you then, Fm not an Emperor? So ! I estrange my nature from my crown. Agrippina Let us sit down, and, Nero, patient be. And each see vision through the other's eyes. Nero The eye that sees the most is Caesar's eye. Agrippina The eye that sees the best is mother's eye. Do you not know you owe your throne to me? Nero Could I forget it, told so oft each day? Agrippina Did I not sacrifice a name for you? Nero Perhaps ; and yet you said, "We two" would rule. Was it for this that you have sent for me. To mourn despairingly a throne that's gone? Agrippina I'm far from beggared yet. 'Twere wiser far, To sit and, Nero, heed what I suggest. I tell you plainly this intrigue of yours Must cease. Poppea must depart. Nero ) Strong words And hammer strokes ! Ye gods, I'll not hear this ! MYRRHA 6i Agrippina Already has the rumor reached your wife; No other woman would endure the scorn. Nero What is my rank? Agrippina Yes, I have said it, sir. The Caesar's nuptial bond shall sacred be. Nero Now do I hear amiss? Agrippina My speech is plain. I warn you, Nero, 'gainst unkind mistakes. Marc Anthony might once have ruled the world; His wife Octavia — Nero I've heard enough. Now mother you have gone too far. Rule Rome But let my heart alone. Love never shall A menace prove unto my crown nor state; Yet all as well as I are bound to love. If I have found a woman I prefer Your thought perforce must yield its place to mine; Your effigies shall still be on the coins, Your orders here will always be obeyed. Agrippina Who made you Emperor, but I ? Come, speak ! Nero It is no pleasure to be Emperor If you must spy and dominate this way. 62 MYRRHA Agrippina (angrily) Ye gods, do you dare call me spy? Nero I do. Agrippina The daughter of Germanicus called spy By Aenobarbus! weakling, imbecile! Poor actor, rag and feather-trimmed! ha, ha! Nay, pose and rant, or reel off doggerel? But understand the Senate looks to me: I did it ; yes, my name I sold for you. Nero Enough of this, enough, enough, I say! Agrippina I was a fool, too rash — Nero You weary me. Agrippina (pacing back and forth) wronged Britannicus — Octavia! Ah, yes, Britannicus shall have his right; 1 realize now your ingratitude. Nero Be still ! do you not know I Caesar am, That premise all superior to Time, A god among the gods, — before whose word The temples of the earth may stand or fall? My fingers can dry up the deepest sea, My eyelids make of Rome a solitude. I am omnipotent. MYRRHA 63 Agrippina Conceited fool, You are too proud of your authority. Nero Forbear! dare not my patience to abuse! Agrippina The gods smite heavily the sin of pride. Nero What part of you I be, I do not know. But part of you I am — that crime is yours. Agrippina Conceit has little for security. Nero You tax me sorely : I am tired of this ! Such threats as you have made may not prove well For those whom you employ for your designs. My riches are the earth ! Ah, prostrate Rome No lustre knows save that which shines from me ! Shall power like mine your puny passion dread? Agrippina (relaxing and putting her arms about her son) O Nero, I am done with bitter words. A mother's love both blessing is and curse: — Where shines the light that will outshine that love ? 'Tis like the silent action of the gods. Oft ill requited, — cast, like pearls to swine. Nero And better so since me it cast for Rome To overlay the world with genius rare, And feed impoverished divinity. 64 MYRRHA Agrippina (sadly) My duty is to thee and to the State, Performing both it seems I'm loved by none. [Smiling] Would that your gratitude could match your grace. Nero Oft patience far outshines ingratitude; But mother I'll forgive you now this time, You hold your woman's views, let me have mine ! [Enter Tigellinus] TiGELLINUS Hail Caesar! Agrippina (to herself and glaring at Tigellinus) How I hate this fawning dog. [To Tigellinus] What brings you, Prefect, here between us two? Go take your business and your schemes elsewhere. Nero No, no, he has my perfect confidence. Agrippina (sweeping past the Prefect and turning to Nero) In that event your mother will retire. [To herself] I fear there's mischief now between those two. [Exit Agrippina into the adjoining room, closing the door behind her.] Nero Let her depart. She puts my power to proof At times. Tigellinus (with insinuation) Could that mean danger to your throne? MYRRHA 65 Nero (carelessly) Did you speak ? Well now, what news ? Did you arrest, as you threatened, that Paulus? TiGELLINUS I had no warrant, Caesar; he is a Roman citizen. Furthermore, when I attempted to execute your orders I was prevented from doing so by your brother Britannicus. Nero (reddening with anger) Britannicus! did he dare interfere? TiGELLINUS Yes, and without some sort of a warrant I was quite powerless. However, I arrested one Epictetus, who was there with the prince. From this prisoner I shall obtain information that may give us a clue to things of great importance and aid us in quickly stamping out a sect which threatens your sacred majesty. Nero (to himself) Britannicus, eh eh? Britannicus — Britannicus — removing him, there would No question be of my succession sure To Caesar's throne. Twould take the sting from her Who threatened this great sovereignty. Fears! Risks ! Well ! let them come and I shall dare them all. Oft there's a time propitious in the acts Of man, if he but blink at consequence And shun debates his conscience would indulge, His very rashness will bring such results ^ MYRRHA As never prudence chill or scruples vain. She lunges at my throne behind his mask, Yet prates of mother-love and sacrifice. In woman honor moves as shadows do And tickles idle ears. Now let me think. If I could find some cause to keep him down! Assassination, poison, must not be. Such policy is bad for those reforms Which I shall soon decree throughout the realm. TiGELLiNus (noticing Nero's silence^ You seem good Caesar moved by solemn thoughts — ? Nero In silence wisdom finds her best ally. All great events are born with fewest words. Now come tomorrow and report to me What said this slave you hold in prison now. But for the present nothing say about Britannicus. I'll balance his account. Farewell. \Ex%t Nero] TiGELLINUS For Tigellinus, it bodes well. My web weaves now of its own self. I work By wit and not by treachery, ha, ha. Fear is a pestilence to those in power And Nero has the greatest fears put on; As I entangle him, I snare them all. \Exit Tigellinus] Curtain MYRRHA 67 SCENE III The next day. ^ Place — Rome Scene 3 : The inside of a prison. The gloomy chamber is walled on all sides with solid blocks of stone, re- lieved in the background by an entrance. On either side of the entrance are seen two armoured and helmeted guards. In the right wall is a low xut doorway. This is closed and bolted, but evi- dently opens into an inner chamber. Enter Tigellinus, followed by Servilius. The guards salute the Prefect as he passes them. TiGELLINUS You have the boy, ServiUus? Servilius Prefect, aye, [Pointing to the door on the right] He is within ; I thought the torture- room Would shake his spirit and unloose his tongue. The lad himself is not of that vile sect : A strange community, this Christian crew ! I cannot fathom it. The members seem Possessed with god-like will and fortitude. TiGELLINUS {impatiently) You have this Epictetus here? Tis well. [He motions the guards to retire] [Exeunt guards] 68 MYRRHA Servilius Not timely though. TiGELLINUS Not timely? How is that? Servilius Octavia visits here about this hour — Inspecting prisons is her latest whim: — She'll have a pious fit and seize our prey. TiGELLINUS (smiling) Such interference could but aid my plans. But let's be done with this before she comes. Where did you find the slave? And how? with whom? Servilius Near Plautius' house beyond the Palatine. No one was with him, Prefect, at the time. TiGELLINUS At any cost he must make known to us The names of those who meet at Plautius' house. Perchance we'll find in league with traitors now Our noble Prince Britannicus. If he Were there — see to it that this boy shall now Confess. My guess, I think, will not be wrong. The timely use of such — this treachery When given Nero of Britannicus Will serve to his indictment and disgrace, And lift me higher still within the realm Of favor. Bring the prisoner now to me. [Servilius moves toward the door, unlocks it and goes in to the adjoining room. He returns a mo- ment later with the lad Epictetus. The aedile MYRRHA 69 pushes the prisoner before Tigellinus. Epicte- Tus appears dazed and starts slightly on seeing the Prefect.] Would you go free, my lad ? Epictetus (with sudden courage) O yes, good sir ! I've done no wrong. Please let me go — go free. Tigellinus (sternly) Well ! follow you this Jew ? this Nazarene ? Epictetus Epaphroditus is my master, sir. Please let me go. Tigellinus You worship Christus, too? Servilius (grasping the prisoner roughly by the arm) Make answer! Epictetus No, I worship gods of Rome. Tigellinus You visit at the house of Plautius, though? Epictetus (startled) Why do you ask me that? Servilius Don't question; speak! [Servilius takes a whip from the wall] Epictetus (hesitating for a moment) Sir Prefect, yes. Tigellinus Ah, whom did you see there? Epictetus The leader Paulus: Linus too was there. 70 MYRRHA TiGELLINUS But those are Christians; any Romans there? [Epictetus starts again, moves uneasUy but sets his teeth] Epictetus And that I should not tell — I will not tell. TiGELLINUS Then you admit there were some Romans there? Epictetus I will not say — I will not answer you. TiGELLINUS (to SeRVILIUS) The whip, Servilius, the lash will loose his tongue. [Servilius lashes the boy several times across the back and legs. He utters a cry and falls to the floor.] Epictetus (half rising upon one knee) pity! TiGELLINUS Did you meet Britannicus ? Epictetus 1 don't remember. TiGELLINUS (to Servilius) Put him on the rack; Now that, I think, will shake his stubbornness. [To Epictetus] Stay boy, give us the name of Romans there, The names of all, and we will let you go. Epictetus I can endure the pain, I will not tell. MYRRHA 71 TiGELLINUS Do you refuse ? The rack, Servilius ! You saucy varlet, you are very bold. [Servilius drags the lad beneath the low opening. The rattle of chains and rope is heard, followed an instant later by the agonizing shrieks of their victim. TiGELLINUS (moving over and peering through the doorway) Wilt answer now? Epictetus (heard from within) I cannot bear it — oh ! TiGELLINUS Then answer ! Epictetus Mercy ! no, O mercy, no ! [Enter Octavia. The Empress is preceded by the two prison gimrds and escorted by two of her maids-in-waiting. ] Octavia (rushing up to Tigellinus) What do I hear? A child — a child's scream here? [She looks about the prison rapidly, then reddens with anger] I wish I were a man to strike you dead. Epictetus (from adjoining room) O spare me! [Octavia moves rapidly across the room, stoops and looks through the low opening] Octavia (in screaming tones to Servilius) Stop at once, in Caesar's name! Release — release him ! Bring the boy to me. 72 MYRRHA [Turning upon Tigellinus] You are a coward — ^think — a child like that! [Clasping her hands] Shall such black deeds as this eclipse my reign ? I*d rather die enslaved than rule such shame. Tigellinus (impatiently) You are intruding on my orders strict ; — We cannot guide the state by sentiment. Oct A VI A (raising her hand as if to strike him) Your life shall pay for this new insolence. Tigellinus (with feigned apology) Yes, I was hasty, Empress, pardon me. [OcTAviA paces hack and forth impatiently awaiting Servilius to bring in his victim] OcTAviA (to Tigellinus) No more of this, vile Prefect. To your knees! Go down upon your knees to Caesar's wife. [The Prefect makes obeisance] Tigellinus (to himself) Play well my part and I shall win the day Despite this pious parrot. Patient be. She'll soon be prostrate as her party is. [Enter Servilius, carrying Epictetus in his arms. He lays the youth roughly on the floor. Octavia kneels down, lifts the lad's head to her knee and feels his heart.] Octavia (piteously) Poor boy ! Servilius He is unconscious ! MYRRHA 73 TiGELLiNUS (calling two of the guards and pointing to a flask of wine on a small table) Give him wine. OcTAViA (kneeling and snatching glass from the guard) I'll give it him myself ; 'tis pitiful. [She pours some of the wine between the boy's lips] Look to it men, you shall atone for this. [Epictetus moves slightly and opens his eyes] I think he now revives, poor darling boy. ^ [Glaring at Tigellinus and Servilius] For such as you the gods alone can tell Why they impose such vermin on the earth. [Epictetus chokes and endeavors to speak] What would you say to me, dear little boy ? Fear not, they shall not hurt you any more. Epictetus (faintly) The pain, the pain — [Recognizing Octavia] The Empress ! can it be ? You must not, Empress, hold a slave like me. O how shall I begin? O how can I So thank you — pray the gods to bless your name? Octavia (tenderly) Your courage is the thanks I value most. [To Tigellinus] Now, Tigellinus, I will take the lad With me. For you the world has other schemes To be concluded in a viper's mind. [Exeunt Octavia and her maids-in-waiting, fol- lowed by the two guards bearing with them Epictetus] 74 MYRRHA TiGELLiNus {to himself) Aye "Madam Empress" — I have other schemes But this one you have helped unconsciously. Woe unto you and to your heritage. [To Servilius] I go to give the Emperor my report. [Exit TiGELLINUS] CURTAIN ACT III ACT III The following evening. Place- — Rome Scene i : A moonlight night in the garden of the Palace of the Caesars. To the left is a slightly raised ter- race beyond which the palace is seen with gleam- ing lights. The area is relieved hy statues, columns, and architraves, shaded hy large trees. Low shrubbery and flowers glitter mysteriously in the soft rays of the moon. A fountain is plash- ing; behind it is an arbored vine and nearby is a stone bench. [Enter Titus, followed by Vitelius, the dandy, who is half -intoxicated] VlTELIUS Heigh-ho, heigh-ho ! It is a stilly night For balladists. Ho Titus! lend your eyes. See yonder tiring moon, love-full, and white As Venus slipping into silks. Come down! Sitt'st thou, fond lady, on thy cushioned throne Of ivory, seducing youthful stars? Titus Vitelius, good nature may do much But drunkenness with you is a disease; 75 76 MYRRHA Your feet, your hands, your very finger ends. They never move without the aid of wine. VlTELIUS Ah, were my temper sober, sir, as yours, One's Ufe would lose its most romantic half. Would you, like Nero's wife, cut ope the side Of vice and heal all man's corruptions? Titus You judge her wrong! VlTELIUS Nayr — ^Heaven mismated them. Or rather Agrippina, take my word. Let me from Courts — who win there, lose. How fare Our crowned acquaintances who play and reach Those heights? Titus Ofttimes their fate is hard. VlTELIUS Always Their fate is heavy. Are not statues hard? Look where you please, back, down, or forward, who In Rome retain their entity save when Their features with the marbled gods are carved? And if the wings of gossip fly with truth. Grows now another plot on Palatine. Perverse and peevish, Nero — Titus Silence, fool — MYRRHA ^j VlTELIUS While Agrippina jealous of his power Knows well who has the title to the throne, The rightful heir, Britannicus — Titus Be still! VlTELIUS His fate is sealed, his life as good as gone. [Looking toward the palace] Oho! there comes the fair Octavia now. Accompanied by that winsome British slave. Fate flings these sweets to me. Now listen, friend : The flowers were not made for beauty's sake They bud to yield their honey — to the bee. This bee will sip anon; faith, as I am An honest fellow. Titus She is virtuous. VlTELIUS In woman virtue? Fie! On Palatine? Believe you so? Such faith in wenches makes Me smile. Titus I warrant you this humour bores. VlTELIUS This virtue's but a put-on thing, a masque Offensive to the clever ranks of Court Society. So much for frankness' sake. Now let me pass. O here is such a night Set up to gaze on trifling chastity! 78 MYRRHA Titus Good patience guide me with this fellow ! Come, Keep we together or part company? ViTELius (as Titus pulls him by the arm) Yes, presently, but — speaking with respect^ — Pray what use serves me going that way, sir? O moon, O Love, I this, thou that, heigh-ho! Mark, mark and wonder! — ^bless ye, ladies fair: By Bacchus, I stay here! — have brains, have brains. Titus Come, man! in short, — no more of ribald jests. [Exit Titus, almost dragging Vitelius along with him] [Enter Myrrha and Octavia] Myrrha My best and dearest friend, you were so good To rescue that poor lad from torture dire! Octavia Let it appear so and it pleased me; still. Through mercy we do oft condemn ourselves. Now Tigellinus is mine enemy Who stands in Nero's highest favor here. This Tigellinus hath a cruel heart. Myrrha Good Empress, do not think of him. Octavia Observe Those trees that ofttimes to the tempest bend Still stand unhurt; yet these that brave the storm Are torn and hurled uprooted to the ground. MYRRHA 79 You have a gentle heart; you cannot know Nor will I tell you. O to dream were sweet That I might ever feel the bliss of love ! — Or at my tender age could be beloved! My saddened fate is equalled here by none; I'm called to put aside my natural self And cheated out of all fair life would give; I seem to drift alone to meet my doom. Myrrh A {tenderly) No, not alone, dear Empress, I am here. OcTAViA {embracing her companion) Sweet Myrrha — Myrrh A {smiling) You have still Britannicus. OCTAVIA You are not quite my age, yet understand. I look each day upon my husband's face Distressed to see that he despises me. [Very sorrowfully] So I'm enthroned and yet I am a slave; O 'twas a monstrous sin this marriage, dear; It is so hard — O it is past my strength ! For Hke a wall before hate's edge I stand Begemmed with precious stones. In every stone There lurk the seeds of solitude and fear. The crown of Death would have a radiant setting To this soul-sick bejewelled recompense. Myrrha The people love you. OcTAViA {endeavoring to smile) Little comfort there! 8o MYRRHA Because I long for joy, for quiet sleep With love upon my eye-lids. Myrrha (kissing her) Empress dear, Let's bear whatever fortune God may bring. Oct AVI A (smiling sadly) Come, I will try and let my heart be glad. Where is Britannicus? Ah, now you blush. Peace to your fondest thoughts if they're of love. Myrrha I've met him at the house of Aulus, oft. There's in another world diviner Love That weighs our motives and propels our thoughts. OCTAVIA I've found much solace in those teachings, dear. Some day I shall go hear their leader speak. Myrrha (to herself) Already are some energies undreamed At work in Rome. Oct AVI A (dreamily) I wonder what I am And where I'm from and whither I'm to go, So thus it is the commonwealth of thought Yearns on the cliff of Doubt, as through this life We roam in suffering. We know not whom To love. To whom shall we pay reverence? I would beUeve and yet what to believe? There must be One who owned us ere we owned. Myrrha The Living God owns us, there is but One. M YRRHA 8i OCTAVIA I do not know — I cannot understand ; How cold the process of omnipotence ! Is there a Paradise accessible From this alluring vileness painted here? There lies the agony of human thought, The masterpiece of its imagining, That spy which spies unsparing on itself As Conscience pleads for immortality While Reason coldly crushes hope with Death. Myrrha There will be ever life beyond the stars. Ah ! there's a blessed light beyond the stars. Whose tender Rays are Christ's Divinity Bequeathing us eternal happiness. OCTAVIA How wonderful, yet doubtful is it all. Myrrha Assurance firm is given in Christus' Faith. Oct AVI A Let us now put this seriousness off And talk about Britannicus. He said He would be here ; he must not find us sad. Come, tell me — do you love my brother, child? I ask because I know he worships you. Myrrha (blushing) I am no mate for Prince Britannicus. OCTAVIA You are so much my brother's mate, dear girl, You are so much the very soul of him. He would ascend the chariot of the sun 82 MYRRHA To range the wilderness of distant space To be consumed by Phoebus' flames, if he For one day lost the light of your sweet eyes. Myrrh A Nor can I longer hide it; I love him. But O dear Empress, please my secret keep. Oct AVI A Be sure you have not erred in telling me! He comes. Farewell ! I leave you with your love. [Exit Octavia] [Enter Britannicus] Britannicus Awake ye lyres of night to Myrrha's voice! Ye solemn sleeping airs, ye nodding flowers, Awake beneath the fragrance of her breath ! [Seating himself beside her] Give me those hands, the dearest in the world, Press them before mine eyes, — feel there my soul. Why dwells that troubled look upon your face? Myrrha There is a time^ — Britannicus When Love will choose to love. Myrrha My lord, why do you greet me in this way? Britannicus Why? my heart's jewel! why? because of love. Myrrha Ah, how I dread the fervor of your words. Britannicus Such dreads are nothing if you think of love. MYRRHA 83 How many stars In night's great silence, dear, Have wept or smiled upon Love's sacred stage. Myrrha This is no play, Britannicus, please hush. Britannicus Life is a play, but Love is that play's soul. I love you, Myrrha! see! a drama hes Completely writ in those three words. An act Whose stateliness is measured by itself And echoes through the fibres of the soul. Myrrha 'Tis very strange, I seem to grow in strength. Britannicus Love grows apace as life goes on, — my love: There is no music in Truth's theatre. No chords of recompense, no loyalty Unless those words are in the audience. If there they be, and on the stage as well. The strangest secrecies of life applaud In ecstacy, and banish earthly woes Before that prologue of Love's sympathy. Myrrha O none have ever ventured this before. Britannicus And when the play is played — the curtain falls, — When every declaration is expressed, No uttered phrase can echo on the dome Or monuments of Time, to master it, — To still the resonance of that — I love ! Look on through years, look out upon the ways Appointed by the world, but hear — I love! 84 MYRRHA It is in all the lifelong, death-long tales, The true, the beautiful: bestowing charm To give them life and loveliness and worth. Love binds our day-dawn to eternity. Our sunrise 'round the sapphire cup of heaven. Do not shrink now. Myrrha I understand, I know, — Yet there's a time when even love may fear And I fear for us both, Britannicus. Britannicus Then you do love me, Myrrha? tell it me. Myrrha I have no shame in telling you I do. Britannicus {kissing her tenderly) Fair Myrrha, sweetest Myrrha, my beloved ! Myrrha Am I all yours? Britannicus More than I living hoped. Myrrha Ah, clasp me in your arms, take all — take all ! Britannicus How soon the smile of Love can change the world. What do I want with thrones ? With toppling gods Or any other impulse from the stars? Here is fond Nature made angelical. To sing diviner hymns into my soul. To spread the richest perfumes at my feet. Myrrha (passionately) My own Britannicus, my blessed love. MYRRHA 85 I am so happy. Let me here be ta'en; I could die now and leave life at its best, With all its suffering and pains mis-termed. it is all so strange ! Britannicus That we should love? [Passionately looking into her eyes'\ Fair reflexes, my twin divinities! So envious the feasting vault of heaven! Look down, gaze not upon the wanton night And make me jealous of the amorous stars. Though glorious be their brightness, yet I swear It hath been stolen only from your eyes. [Britannicus clasps Myrrha very closely to him] Myrrha But may I breathe, or just list to your heart? Britannicus The very beatings of that heart are yours. Myrrha 1 fear for you, Britannicus, I fear — Could I but tell you — make you understand That even in this realm of wondrous night. There is a light that shines with fair deceit ; A sorrow fretting always close at hand Low-moaning here, the while we play with Joy. Britannicus Death is the worst that one can dread. Myrrha Nay dear. But should I part with you — 86 MYRRHA Britannicus That ne'er shall be! Myrrha What wonder this? IVe suffered so; 'tis nought, My love, there seems in Rome but cruelty. [Voices heard in the distance] Hark, is not that the voice of Nero, hark ! Britannicus And Tigellinus with him. Myrrha Tigers both. So filled with hate and treachery, see, see, [Rising] They come this way — Britannicus With them is Burrus, too. Some good god frown on this intrusion. Myrrha 'Twas this I feared — when sadness filled my speech. Britannicus Now Nature's cursed already; now hell-bred Disease with aspic poison fills the air. Crowned impotence! usurper of my throne! Why do the gods place him above the rest? O Hades' portal open for his soul. [Turning again to Myrrha] Let not the sight of them annoy your mind. We'll hence unto the palace now and tell Octavia of our plighting. Come, sweet love. MYRRHA 87 [Myrrh A and Britannicus turn and walk up the pathway toward the gleaming lights of the Palace] [Enter Nero, Tigellinus and Burrus] Nero No more of your evasions, Prefect sly, For evil must be great indeed, if you Can hesitate to give it tongue. I have Here your report. My sacred person is Endangered and my orders not obeyed? Can find no crime against these Christians, eh? Tigellinus Your brother goes with them — Nero By Hades! — no! Tigellinus I learned this from the lad upon the rack. Nero Britannicus then plots against my life? Burrus Octavia brings you no children : Britannicus must in any case succeed you. Nero (pacing back and forth) Did you hear the murmur of applause that greeted his song the other night? He is not a man of safe discretion, eh, Burrus ? That applause was most insulting to my sacred talent, which pre- fers itself, sings itself unchallenged. There are no critics beneath the gods to judge my work. Tigellinus It is not so easy to fathom the plans of your august mother; besides, you are not on such 88 MYRRHA especial good terms with her at present. Rome would not relish the thought of another civil war. Nero (starting) True, Tigellinus, true, and my mother's wrath has already shown itself. My love of Rome tells me of more than you can say: I can strike, I must not be weak. BuRRUS (in low tones) As long as Britannicus lives, Agrippina must be dreaded — the Praetorians are ever loyal to the daughter of Germanicus ; nor do Seneca's coun- sels soothe her ambitions. All props would fall with Britannicus. Tigellinus (to himself) I'm not so sure of that. My plans now weave A web to draw her too into its snare. I have begun — I will complete the work. Nero (in low tones) It must be done: Britannicus must die. Tigellinus Although most bloody be our thoughts put wit And glamour in their execution, sir. Nero What say ? Removed, what counterclaim has she ? See to it, Tigellinus, see to it. A genius has been given to the world Who must correct its rude unthankfulness. Tigellinus You have a banquet here tomorrow night : Now there could be some items at the feast MYRRHA 89 Which would protect your crown, and yet add thrill And novel interest to the whole affair. Send for Locusta. She is old in trade, And could make goodly climax of her art. The associates of your brother should be there. And thus avoid suspicion in the act; Young Titus, Myrrha, Tucan and his friends. Nero My blood climbs back to where it should be, sir. ril do what you suggest. TiGELLINUS Ah, that is wise. Nero Go, hasten and Locusta send to me. [Exit TiGELLINUS ] [Looking up with arms outstretched to the firma- ment Nero becomes engrossed as it were, with his own great personality and power] O subtle Destiny, o'erhang, frown down ! From power such as mine, bow firmament ! Now tremble whipped, thou vast rotundity Pent up with lightning, thunder, wind and fire. The vital air is mine, the waters, mine; The gifts of Nature, fruitful, fair, all mine ; Here Nero stands, a lone omnipotence Filched from the womb of chaos, ere a ghost Or god sad-eyed and envious walked abroad In realms of unconjectured space. The world, The splendour of the sun and moon, yon stars Of rivalry and gems aflame, are mine; 90 MYRRHA All solvent senses, fumes of reason, mine; All eyes and ears see not, hear not, but mine. [To BURRUS] Performed at supper, eh? Ah, there shall be A thrill in it ; and watch my mother's eyes. Her words did shake me, Burrus, for the nonce, Echoing to what is fiercest in my soul; But sudden waked to this necessity And fearing loss of my beloved verse. The gods command fulfillment of their will. [The lights go out and the stage is totally darkened for a few moments] Scene 2 : A secret chamber in the Palace. There are practically no decorations nor appointments save a low throne and a few pieces of furniture to harmonize. There is a small door on the right. Nero is seen seated; he appears impatient and perturbed. [Enter Locusta. She throws herself down, grovel- ling at the Emperor's feet.] Nero So poison is a trade with thee, eh? This death must not be long — ^no pangs, but silent, sure and quickly done. MYRRHA 91 LocusTA (looking up) O divine one, there's the Julian Law against these poisonings, murders and their perils — Nero {interrupting and kicking her) Reptile! dar'st talk to me of Julian laws? I am the law, that understand or thou shalt die to- morow morning {smiling maliciously) on the old charges. LocusTA {cringing and shrinking beneath his gaze and the blow) O mighty one, thy word is law! Though the prince is very strong and healthy and the task, therefore, not an easy one, I have a poison that will do the work and at the same time avert suspicion. Nero {with an air of malignant satisfaction) Ah, thou art an artist; devise something fresh, eh? What shall it be? LocusTA Let the victim be given a cup of hot wine, that he will find too hot; he will ask then for snow to cool it; in this snow the poison shall be placed. Nero Artful wench, well said. See to it, see to it, and thy record shall be cleared. Go now — stay, re- member — no pangs, silent sure. [LocusTA makes obeisance and kisses the hem of the imperial toga] [Exit Locusta] 92 MYRRHA Nero (to himself) The stage is set, the actors wait my will, Now must the world acclaim my artist-skill. [An expression of absolute malice steals over his countenance^ CURTAIN ACT IV ACT IV The next night. Scene : The great Banquet Hall in the Palace of the Caesars. The walls are delicately frescoed with mythologi- cal figures, while the columns supporting the hall are hung with roses and each pillar is festooned with wreaths made of orange and acacia blossoms. There are long tables overlaid with silver and handsome cloths upon which are bejewelled cups of gold and jade and great dishes heaped high with the rarest fruits. Near the tables are divans and couches covered with cushions of rich silks. Agitated by glittering cords a rain of petals constantly descends upon the tables. Underneath the tables is sprinkled a mixture of vervain and maiden-hair. Amphorae of wine stand against the walls, and in the background a fountain; behind this is seen a life-size figure of Aphrodite. Over all is a strange and broken reflection of the evening light; the eastern touch is given by the mist of incense. Dreamy oriental music is heard. Guests are discovered entering, 93 94 MYRRHA Senators, counselors, nobles and patricians of Rome, foreigners of state from distant realms of the Empire are dazzled by the display of splendor. Among the throng are seen hosts of Caesar's slaves and servants of both sexes. The men ser- vants carry hand-lamps ; others are scattering spices, small boys are running about with lutes and harps, while the slave girls and freedwomen are playing cytharas or bearing great bunches of flowers wherewith to decorate the feast. [Enter Nero and Octavia greeted by a tumult of applause; they are followed in train by Agrippina, Britannicus, and the other members of the royal suite. ] [Enter Seneca, Tigellinus, Burrus, Lucan, Vi- TELius, Titus Flavius, Aulus Plautius, Pop- PAEA, Myrrha, Acte, Pomponia Graecina, et al.'\ [Nero now, amid deafening applause is seen to recline on a couch behind the table, which is in the background. His robes are of oriental rich- ness. His hair is curled and he holds an emerald eye glass. Agrippina, Octavia, Poppaea, Sen- eca, Tigellinus, Burrus, and others, also lie behind the Imperial table.] [Britannicus is discovered seating himself on a divan before the lower table in the foreground; on his right is Myrrha; to his left Titus.] MYRRHA 95 Britannicus (leaning gently over to Myrrha) Ah, greetings, my beloved! What happiness To see — Myrrha Britannicus — Britannicus What bliss to hear Your voice. Myrrha {looking about as in fear) This chills my soul. Britannicus Nay, Myrrha dear, You have a God, who with His mighty wings Will shelter you, else He is not of heaven. [Enter musicians dressed as satyrs, who now play on lutes and bagpipes. These are followed by a group of professional applauders.] [Following the applause given the Emperor, the banquet proceeds amid the low hum of conversa- tion and tinkling of lutes.] [Caesar now is seen to rise] Chorus of voices O hear the songs of Nero, poet-god ! Britannicus {to Myrrha) Now must we bow to Rome's buffoonery. [A hush falls over the hall as the Emperor recites one of his own compositions] Nero Bear witness Attis! thou whose lovely eyes Could e'en surprise the mother of the skies ! Bear witness dolphin, cleaving rolling tides 96 MYRRHA And gamboling on Nereus' sea-green sides; Bear witness likewise, Hannibal, divine, Thou who didst scale the high- ridged Apennine. [Wild applause] You powers hear, in high Olympus* dome Who sway the fortunes of imperial Rome Give ear, — inspire me with Machlean rage That I may so the pangs of love assuage; To make the Gallic priests their cymbals beat And fair Bacchantes move with tripping f^et. And chant "lo Bacche!" to the woods around And echo from the hills repeat the sound. [Long and continued applause] [Nero sits down, assuming a grotesque attitude, smiling delightedly at the adulation heaped upon him. ] BtrRRUS (aside to himself) He might be worse employed than shouting rhymes ! [ViTELius, the dandy, now rises. He is flushed with wine; the wreath he wears has slipped to his eyebrows and ointment is running down his fore- head. ] Chorus of voices All hail Vitelius ! Vitelius ! VlTELIUS *Tis said Anacreon wrote in witty phrase: " 'Twixt wine and man this difference appears, The old man bores you, but the old wine cheers." Nero (to Tigellinus and pointing to Vitelius) What ails that keg of grease? MYRRHA 97 TiGELLINUS Beyond cure, mad. VlTELIUS Our sac-sac-sacred Nero is a god! Bear witness Attis ! thou whose lovely eyes Can see no god but Nero in the skies. [Holding his cup in the air] Libations to our god among the gods! Homer, how thy Iliad dwindles here; Now Virgil, bite thy nails in jealousy. [Applause] Britannicus (to Myrrh A who is becoming not only ill at ease but terror-stricken as the revelry proceeds) The ties of love must never fail to hold. Believe me true. Look not that way but turn And gaze into my heart. O best of all 1 love you — see you only, feel you here. Myrrha Love liveth in the softly dreaming sea, Beneath the trees can laugh and sing — not here. VlTELIUS To ruby-visaged Bacchus ! let us drink ! My heart — my blood — to Venus and her boy! [Pointing to his blossomed nose] A charm there is about the color red, Suggestive of much warmth and brilliancy. Come, ladies, with your priceless gems and clouds Of muslin, droop your peplums — show your charms ! The statues smile, but you both smile and love. Yet loving, wooing — hang it ! better drink ! 98 MYRRHA [Applause] [Staggering back toward his couch] Yes, I have lived in this unstseady world — Seneca (to himself) We sing, we drink, we take, but we are ta'en. VlTELIUS You are a fledgling, Seneca, without My wit and art to feel a real thrill Of passion: sir, I edify this world — Chorus of voices A song from Lucan now! sing, Lucan, — sing! VlTELIUS Make room: yes, let us have another song. Seneca (to himself) Oh, what a housing have our vices got ! Contempt of them keeps me from festering. Lucan (rising) He fights, plays, revels, loves and whirls and stands, Doth use mute eloquence and rhythmic hands ; Silence is voiceful through each varying part. In each fair feature — 'tis the crown of Art. [Wild acclamation of ''Euge"] VlTELIUS Plain critics say — he sings and scribbles well. Lucan Such is our Caesar; happy, happy Rome Where radiant Nero gilds his palace home; His gentle looks with tempered splendor shine 'Round his fair neck his golden tresses twine. [Applause] MYRRHA 99 [At the sign from Nero enter a troop of Syrian dancing girls naked to the waist, clashing tam- bourines, with bells on their wrists and ankles. These now whirl in a wild passionate measure. They wave their arms, twist their bodies in lasciv- ius contortions, roll their eyes with invitation, refusal or ecstacy.] [Finally flinging their tambourines to the floor, they stand rigid, affecting a spasm of delight. The girls then approach and retreat from the guests on the couches. Men, young and old, seise the wanton creatures and bear them — some to alcoves behind tapestries, others to their couches.] Britannicus {in tones of disgust) Bedizened, falsely smiling courtesans. [Flowers and petals continue to drop from the ceiling; the hum of voices increases to cries of delight. ] [As the Banquet proceeds all restraint seems to van- ish; excitement becomes a fever; unprecedented license prevails. Fresh relays of food and wine are brought in — drunken kisses and embraces become general, draperies are torn or lowered, pe plums are cast aside, while both men and women offer little excuse for their actions. Goblets and dishes are dashed to the floor. Here and there slaves are seen assisting or lifting besotted nobles who have rolled under the tables either alone or in the drunken embraces of women.] [The music changes into a disordered and wild out- burst of bagpipes, lutes, citharas, cymbals, Egyp- 100 MYRRHA tian sistra, followed by the discordant blare of trumpets and clapping of crotolas.] [More groups of dancers and courtesans enter who mingle with the guests.] [One of these wantons partly disrobing is seen to throw herself on the breast of Vitelius. The dandy smiles, blows some of the powder from her hair, kisses her neck and shoulders, then as if suddenly bored by her caresses pushes her into the arms of the other nobles.] [Nero is seen half bent over the table, dividing his time between making amorous advances to Pop- PAEA and gazing over the scene through a polished emerald. ] [OcTAviA, though somewhat more hardened, seems to be undergoing feelings of utter loneliness and disgust. ] [Seneca is talking with Agrippina; they look dis- dainfully and coldly upon it all.] [Tigellinus appears perturbed, impatiently await- ing the climax.] [Myrrh A, who has been murmuring all the while in low whispers to Britannicus, is seen to blush, then a look of horror comes over her face. Britannicus shields her as best he can from the clamour and rioting. ] [Large Ethiopians now enter who mimic beasts, while other slaves appear, acting the clown and buffoon for the benefit of the f casters.] [Enter youths and maidens in masquerade. Some wear masks of the heads of tigers, crocodiles, and MYRRHA loi apes; others are clothed in the skins of lions, goats and dogs, dragons and sea-dolphins, or in the plumage of ostriches and peacocks. These crea- tures now dance, representing respectively antics of the forest or jungle or sea. On finishing this dance of unparalleled licentiousness, the applause and enthusiastic cries of the guests are general.] [ViTELius, now holding a cup of wine in his hand passes closely to where Myrrha and Britannicus are reclining; he staggers roughly against the corner of their couch.] ViTELius {peering at Myrrha through blinking eyes and swaying hack and forth) My gate of dawn! My garden of delight! [Pushing aside several of the nearby revellers] Disperse ye fireflies — pluck not at my rose! [Staggering over and whispering to Titus] Remember this I said on yester night : "The flowers were not made for beauty^s sake, They bud to yield their honey to the bee." This bee now sips ; faith, as I am — ah, ah ! [Turning again to Myrrha and touching her bodice] Fair ivory hills, — to touch I hesitate. [Myrrha pushes him from her] I may not love, I will at least enjoy, — [Glancing over toward Nero and Octavia] Change with each tasting as our Nero there, — Wives are deficient in the arts of love. Britannicus {sternly to Vitelius, noticing Myrrha's fear) I02 MYRRHA Begone ! She's not the kind who would converse With you. ViTELius (persistently) Sip honey ere the petals close. So sweet and fragrant, tempting but demure, Becoming pretty parts, too modest, quite! Come, marble Aphrodite, just one kiss! [Myrrh A repulses him again] Still marble? Love's cold statue, passionless! You should adorn some golden nook at night Where fragrant incense would your soul affect — [Turning to Britannicus] Love is a starving sort of ailment here. Britannicus Away, away, you fool! VlTELIUS Another try. For she is too demure. Come, tell me why — [Britannicus by another stern look commands ViTELius to retire then turns to Myrrha] Britannicus Who could imagine night of viler madness ? [Gating over the festivities] And, Reason, where is thy nobility? Myrrha Dear lord, can we not leave the banquet hall And later to the Emperor explain? Britannicus (who is gradually becoming affected by his surroundings) Why are you cold? It is a night for love! Your very breath is incense to my soul MYRRHA 103 And wakens me. Come nearer, my dear love. [Looking into her eyes} The whitest clouds are pillows for your eyes. Myrrh A {with slight annoyance) If so, my prince, would I could shroud mine eyes, Britannicus O queen of soft desires ! Dare I embrace You on this couch of roses sweet and soft, — [Myrrha becomes startled and pushes him from her] The recognition of my use in life Lies in my love for you. Myrrha Britannicus Forget not your respect — Britannicus Feast after feast Each night is spread upon the star-lit sky. But there's no festival in all the world Served on the million plates of heaven's gold, Nor single delicacy I would touch [Kissing her passionately] Without the nectar from these precious lips. [Myrrha tears herself from his embrace] My sweet content ! my heart of joy ! Myrrha For shame, For shame — ! Britannicus O foolish, that I have not known 104 MYRRHA As now I do, the steps to mount Love's throne. [With intense passion] Who says that you are not my sweetest love? Show me a spirit that will answer nay. Myrrh A (timidly endeavoring to bring Britannicus to his senses) True love incorporates the heart with good, Then crowns the soul with happiness and trust. Britannicus You are the fire that burns and glows, a flame Your scented hair ; your heart a rose ; your lips Two petals sweet, for dewy kissings ripe ; Your eyes twin urns in sleep, — to wake at dawn From yester's dreams to present soft desires. Who says that you are not my sweetest love? Myrrha Here with what darkness you would clothe that love! Britannicus Not mine those cheeks aglow, your warm-veined arms. Those soft white knees adoring oft in prayer? Those little feet that lightly tread the flowers? Myrrha O Myrrha, save yourself from this abyss ! Britannicus Ah, eyes half-closed, you must not look from me, Not all the gods shall turn from me a gaze Where every droop of lids is amorous. Here you are mine, and we were born to love I This chamber echoes with the joy of love. MYRRHA los Where Virtue ruled, now Love must have control. [He seizes Myrrh a and draws her passionately to him] Come, Myrrha, — kisses here and here, more close And deeper sown across your eyes and hair, — Myrrha O Christus ! in the darkness of this hour Where is Thy light to guide, Thy way to climb? Britannicus Ah, hazard's placed you in a happy sphere, — This couch of softest silk 'mid leaves of rose, Made more to sooth delight than court repose. [At the mingled looks of pain, anger and disappoint- ment on Myrrha'^ face, Britannicus recovers himself almost as suddenly as he had given way to his passion. ] Beloved do not go — O pardon me ! O blame it on my passion, not my love. In my true heart I am ashamed — I beg For pardon on my knees : forget — forgive ! Myrrha Ah, but I feared you. Britannicus You need fear no more; Your love is generous — [Suddenly heaving a deep sigh] Myrrha Why do you sigh? Why are you saddened now so suddenly? io6 MYRRHA Britannicus (in low tones, clasping both of Myrrha's hands) I often think, were 1 to die, dear, To sleep, to feel, to pray there in that Realm, So far away. Some thrill of tender sympathy. We had had, or dreamed, or known, or loved. We two alone. Would startle, then recarry me From Exile back to Life again. I often think, were I in my grave, dear. Beneath the forest deep or vine-clad walls, Thine eyes in grief Would drop seeds of such sweet sorrow That my heart would rise — break into a rose, And recognize Thy tears of Love upon the petals. As the richest jewels from Paradise. Myrrha But never shall I suffer you to die. Britannicus (glancing towards Nero) Ah, when the heart is torn, one cannot help But show what's hidden there of misery. I see the jewel flash and know 'tis there, — Though we are here in robes arrayed with life Within yon gem I see the flame of death; Unhappy victim for ambition L Soon I'm incarcerated in a tomb, Deprived of love — Myrrha Nay, nay — MYRRHA 107 Britannicus That one thing here On earth approaching most divinity. Myrrha Let us cast off these ornaments, let's leave These pomps and profanations to their rage. Britannicus (picking up a handful of rose leaves) These, ashes of my Empire, branch extinct: Though born to Caesar's throne I own it not ; The eyes of my dear father's shade must weep To see here robbed his fair posterity. Yet Myrrha, my beloved, there hath crept Into my soul some strange and secret strength That lifts me up — I know not what it is. Myrrha (tenderly) Britannicus, brave opener of mine eyes To love, — Britannicus And yet must see foul death each day. My heritage is lost as well as I; You have what's left of me — a nothingness. Myrrha (in low tones) How are you lost ? No, no ! His voice you hear Soothing the ache of centuries away Into the sweetness of eternal Ufe. Britannicus Can it be so ? is't true or false ? Myrrha Most true. [Nero now raises his polished emerald, looking directly across the banqueting room towards io8 MYRRHA Britannicus; the other guests anxiously follow the eyes of Caesar.] Nero (loudly) Britannicus, it is my wish that you Would sing for us. [A hush falls over the Hall] Britannicus I'm not a balladist Like Caesar, so I pray to be excused. Nero (impatiently) We wait, O poet-kin — give us a song. I might learn much from a comedian. Britannicus You flatter me. Nero Come then, make ready, sing. Britannicus (summoning a harpist to accompany him) My present state proceeds from fortune's stings; My birth I boast of a descent from kings ; Hence may you see from what a noble height I'm sunk by fortune to this abject plight. Of father, country and of friends bereft. Not one of all these sumptuous temples left; Which, while the fortune of our house did stand. With rich-wrought ceilings spoke the artist-hand. [A murmur of applause, mingling partially with pity and favor] [Nero glares angrily at his brother apparently for this insinuation against his hereditary rights] MYRRHA 109 Nero {to himself) The gods avenge contempt, likewise will I. Titus A dangerous song you've sung, my noble friend And see the look upon your brother's face. Britannicus (to Nero) My disabilities — Nero (controlling his anger) You sang — of what? Insinuations I'll not tolerate. [One of the slaves is now seen to approach Britan- nicus and hand him a myrrhine goblet filled with wine] Britannicus (raising the goblet to his lips) This is too hot, when it is cooled, perhaps. [The slave drops snow in the cup from a cooler nearby, handing it back to the prince] [Britannicus now drinks unsuspectingly. Titus takes the goblet and is about to drink also when Britannicus suddenly falls forward across the table. With a cry of horror Titus drops the goblet breaking it to pieces on the tiled floor] [Myrrh A with one stifled scream throws her arms about her lover; then with the assistance of Titus, draws him from the table to the couch] [OcTAViA is seen rushing to where her brother has fallen] [Some score of the guests become terror stricken, leaping from their divans and running in all di- rections. Those, however, more hardened and familiar with the mysteries of the court, stand no MYRRHA rooted in their places with eyes fixed on Nero, awaiting, as it were, some sign of reassurance."] Britannicus {regaining consciousness as he rests in Myrrha's arms) My torch is out ! Myrrh A {tenderly smoothing his brow) Be still, my gracious lord. Britannicus Ah, you are here ? Fair daylight ! O sweet love ! Yet I am doubtful, — I can barely see. Myrrh A {as she feels him sinking back again in her arms) love, look — look on me — my darling, speak ! Britannicus {as his companion kisses him passion- ately) Sweet kisses — fragrant breath! Ah, put your cheek Against my cheek. Let Nero take the world, — Give me your hand — we soon shall meet again. 1 see your eyes, like stars they light the trees Of Heaven. How long to stretch these longing arms Alone? Myrrha Take, take my soul in them ! Britannicus {dreamily) O death Seems other than the dreams; farewell, my wife. Myrrha Your wife in very truth,^he hears me not ! THE DEATH OF BRITANNICUS MYRRHA III that I had the charms to keep the soul Within the confines of this feeble case. Britannicus {feebly) 1 hear — O — weakness at a time like this? My soHtudes are filled with winged things And silences are murm'ring into speech. Myrrh A {tenderly) Lie still upon my heart — close, lest it break. Now I am wholly yours in thought and hope. Britannicus {his eyes closing while he feebly and half unconsciously moves his hands about Myrrha'^ face) More soft than sleep and singing in my next World's memories. Now pity lends her tears To love. Ah, one embrace, O one more kiss This last time, and no other ever more. Shall I see there? — O you my love! Farewell My eyes, — my life, my all — [Dies] Myrrha O silence hard ! O he is dead! dead, dead! My Prince, my love! [Kneeling for a moment'] O give me strength to reconcile the words: "No hair of Myrrha's head shall e'er be harmed," When here my very heart is cleft in twain. [While Myrrha and Octavia are weeping over the body of Britannicus, Agrippina sits transfixed; then her expression gradually changes to one of alarm and consternation; her hands tremble so 112 MYRRHA violently that she spills the contents of a cup she had been holding.] Seneca (to himself, noticing the countenance of Agrippina) Ah ! she is innocent of this, at least. So nature drops us down. Poor witless wretch! How many deaths ahead before mine own? Tell me, sweet oracle, be kind — reveal. LUCAN O what a Httle nothingness is man! His best lot is to know the way to die, The next best is to be compelled to die. [At a sign from Nero, slaves come to hear the body of Britannicus to an ante-room.] Titus {looking down into the face of his dead friend) So beautiful in death the lad appears; There lies the last of Rome's most noble house. An ancestry of seven centuries Is flitting now to unsubstantial dust. [Glaring at Nero] monstrous deed! O foulest fratricide! [Exeunt Octavia, Myrrha, Titus, Seneca and others, with the slaves hearing the body] [Nero rises and attempts by reassuring smiles and gestures to quell the growing panic among the guests] Nero 1 bid you stay, my friends, and not desert The feast. My brother hath from childhood been The subject of such fits. He may return, MYRRHA 113 For wine is sovereign cure for all one's ills, — Come dancers all ! refill your cups, come drink ! [ The guests hesitate for a moment, hut gradually file out of the Hall; even Tigellinus and Burrus are seen to slip away.] [Nero and Agrippina confront each other alone] Agrippina {fiercely) This is your work. Nero Seek not to grieve a work Which is your own. Agrippina How now ! what masque is this ? Nero I have out-traveled you. We two still rule, Though, madam, pardon me if I infringe. Agrippina I'll show you for a monster, yet I fear — Nero Suspicious ever is an evil mind; Now let the dead be dead. You live and I ; But do not tattle too much of your ills. That's all. Agrippina I live here and am mistress, sir. Nero I never feared the face that first I saw. Let me be sure — a little nearer — so — The very first I saw, the very face. Agrippina Dare touch my hand? 114 MYRRHA Nero A Caesar's courtesy. Agrippina Would I could tear out those blood-shotten eyes And feed them to the beasts ! Nero Ungentle queen, Heredity bears partners for its crimes, Agrippina You challenge me with your comparisons? Nero That fault lies in my birth — an act supreme Of yours which Fate most wisely swayed to Rome. Behold! so far you've had your will; now, I Would be more than a tame interpreter Of Rome's great pride and all that she would boast Of pomp and power unassailable. By all the gods! do not my deeds declare And re-assert your bloody majesty? CURTAIN ACT V ACT V Time — Four years later. Place — Baiae Evening. Scene i : An ante-chamber in the Imperial Villa. Through a large door to the right is seen the outer hall lined with lofty marble pillars. [Enter hall, two Romans meeting each other] 1ST Roman What haste, good fellow, whither now so fast? 2ND Roman I saw't, but turned away mine eyes and ears. 1ST Roman ril hear with faithful ears, whate'er it be. 2ND Roman Mark! Nero's name shall burn the sky of Hell: The guilt of greater evils takes the shame From lesser. O the wrath of highest gods ! [Exit 2nd Roman] 1ST Roman He is too earnest. Faith, I'll follow him. [Exit I St Roman] 115 ii6 MYRRHA [Enter slowly Myrrha. She walks about adjusting several minor ornaments in the room; then sits on a couch] [She pushes back her long dark hair from her tem- ples, at the same time choking back a sob] Myrrha Do I still live? Can I still bear to live? Or am I mad? This craft of reason lost In grief's unfathomed flood? Alas! Alas! I find no harbor nigh. Naught can I see But woes that murder joy! In whom confide? Is kindness not the natural due of life? Dear Christ, dost Thou not wish the world to save? But tears are vain. Each day brings forth some new Calamity; more ghastly crimes each night. The glory of sagacious minds is fled, — Forever lost. Mad fiends of all degrees. Without constraint proclaim there is nor God, Nor faith, nor love : — all trod into the dust By whomsoever bear authority. Now only murder sates the Emperor's heart. And thinner grows his train of flatterers. My father dead, my lover foully slain — No hope for me who once had hope to love ! The saddest strokes of life have struck me dumb. Britannicus, O loss beyond my tears ! — Thy precious memory shall never die, Though grief may die slain by excessive grief; Then I shall go, attired in bridal robes, MYRRH A 117 And Death shall lead me gently by the hand, To meet my lover in eternity. [Pausing and drying her tears] Within this dreadful Court I had one friend, Octavia, and she an exile weeps Her dreary days at Pandataria, A Christian comforted in banishment By Christus' teachings of Eternal Life. My Christian brethren, though their eyes weep out From suffering, keep joyous hearts that beat With strength of Faith and its encouragements. [Drawing a parchment from her bosom and reading aloud] This message here from Paulus gives me strength. ''And who is he that will harm you, if ye be zeal- ous of that which is good? But if ye suffer for the sake of righteousness, blessed are ye: and fear not their fear, neither be troubled; but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord. "For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well-doing rather than for evil-doing ; because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring us to God." [Enter Titus excitedly] Titus {recognizing Myrrha) The lady Myrrha ! Ah, do I intrude ? Is Nero here? Gods, what a scene to mar The lovely night! Myrrha {anxiously) Ah where? what news, my lord? ii8 MYRRHA Titus Tonight who may look up without a fear? Myrrha Misfortunes conquer often every fear. Titus (as if seized with a sudden suggestion) If you will unto Agrippina haste — [Myrrha looks startled] Indeed I know it is a sacrifice ; She's in distress and may have need of you. Myrrha The most exalted are bow'd down by woe; O sobs and miseries are all I hear. I'll go to her; I am decided, sir. [Exit Myrrha] Titus (to himself, admiring Myrrha as she retires through the hall) She is the noblest woman in the Court; No wanton kiss, no false, no flatt'ring smile, Yet she has every winning charm. Sweet girl, This Christ — there must be good in Him withal. 'Tis rare example here, I wish it well. List and construe my words, Posterity! Afar I see Jerusalem in flames While I o'erthrow her proudest monuments In penalty of what was merited. And exiled be the Jew throughout the world And Christus well avenged by Roman arms. [Loud voices heard approaching] [Enter Nero, Seneca, Tigellinus, Burrus and Anicetus] MYRRHA 119 [Titus slips unnoticed by them and stands listening just outside the door] Nero (pacing wildly about the room) O cursed crones, O maudlin murderers ! This is an hour of vile malignity. My mother drowned, a ship unnailed to sink Midway to yonder angry, rocky coast. And who conceived this deed? Not I, no, no! You Anicetus, are responsible. My mother dead ! her mem'ry will not die ! The womb that bore me, in the waters, cold, — Those eyes that looked upon me first, now closed With slimy ooze ; while writhing eels devour The breasts that gave me love and nourishment. TiGELLINUS My lord — Nero Would you console me. Tiger-soul? A fitting heart for sympathy have you ! That which I see, I see — my mother's face! If evil come of this outrageous deed — TiGELLINUS Be calm, my master, you are now secure. Nero She stands, she sighs and sways in whispers vast — O this ! her hand, her hand, it touches me ! TiGELLINUS Behind the throne which she would soon have seized. I20 MYRRHA Nero The sharks are making towards me, side long shapes And would bite guilt out of my secret soul. See, see, my mother's in a body yet. O you now being dead, so loved your son! Why hinder me, you brutes, rash fools ! stand back! Anicetus We have done simply what you bade us do. Seneca Its consummation then you should endure. Nero I'll not believe it. Now she calls my name. It was the first voice on this earth I heard. Farewell, my mother — think me not so base — Titus (rushing back into the room) But Agrippina lives ! BURRUS What do you mean? Titus Upon the moonht sea, I witnessed it A-sailing there with old Caractacus. Nero (wildly addressing Tigellinus and Anicetus) O, O, O, O! I'm not a matricide. Destroy that mandate, tear that mandate up! Tigellinus (looking at Titus) Now we must take him in our confidence. Speak, if your words are true. Titus Sir, Prefect, peace! MYRRHA 121 For justice is performed in spite of you. At bloody deeds you always stand unmoved, Your present disappointment bares your soul. Nero I am not doomed — no, now I am not doomed. I dreamed she lived — I had forgotten that. [To Titus] What if you lie? What then — if this were false? TiGELLINUS Give us your proofs. Titus List first to what I saw. A shrill despairing cry broke through the night, Then all grew still beneath a dimness kissed By splendid stars of pearl and emerald. With winged sails we bounded o'er the sea To where that voice had risen in the gloom. Our smooth shaped boat tossed up a sparkling spray, The waves in hollow pathways following; But when we there arrived it was too late. The wounded vessel sank beneath the waves. Two pressing tides met just above her decks, — Then calmer than before, the waters ebbed. Weaving those thin and unembodied shapes Which Fancy sends with silver from the moon. Half in a waking dream we scanned the deep; For lack of light and sound impatient grew, Unsatisfied, a cold chill in our limbs. Then lo ! two jewelled arms 'mid ripples rose As if from out the foam of fairyland. 122 MYRRHA More closely drawn, behold a woman swam, In frenzy sought to reach the distant strand. More swift we sailed across the silent sea, — We followed straight the course of those gemmed arms, — How noble seemed that shadow plunging on! A presence struggling in the lights and darks And dim environments of varied hue. Still plunging on — we but a length away — But ere we reached the trailing of her hair She rose and stood erect upon the shore. She quickly turned in frightened steps from us Scarce knowing her deliverance had come. Against the cliff in weariness she leaned An outline delicate, benumbed with cold. The crescent moon rays fell upon her face And dripping hair thick to the girdle-tie. A loveliness in marble ; yet withal, Her blue eyes bore much sadness in their gaze. And then we recognized, we named her name: — Now in her villa safe, Augusta rests. BURRUS Then peace, your mother lives. TiGELLINUS Do not rejoice. Nero And pray why not? The seas have stood aloof To take a prize so marvelous as she. TiGELLINUS Do you not know she will avenge this act. Proclaim it to the comers of the realm? MYRRHA 123 Nero You tell me that? TiGELLINUS For I would have you choose — Nero I'll sue to her for life — I am her son. TiGELLINUS Will you forget her threats so quickly, Sire? Titus A mother sees her child's most inmost soul. TiGELLINUS Ambition soars above her motherhood, By slow degrees she'll gain the arms of all Then gild her savage nature with revenge. Titus No ; when ambition grows from mother-love Forever it will stand in loyalty. TiGELLINUS Will you be hoodwinked by this fiery youth Or trust your safety to your ministers? Titus Your mother — TiGELLINUS Shall I put him out the door? Titus I would not Prefect, play a game with you For fear you'd cozen me with trickery. [To Nero] No matter how the elements of man Are clothed with power, the authentic rules Of Nature are the same, hot gifts and gold 124 MYRRHA The hungry men of Rome will flatter you; Through fear these few will honor you, profess Their love to sate their own ambitious ends; But as your wit is noble,- you well know Your mother only loves you for yourself. If that love is ambitious, it is well: She seeks not what she seeks for her own self But only questing glory for her son. Such is the horoscope of mother's love Mixed in the waywardness of sacrifice. TiGELLINUS If you see visions, pass them to the air. Nero (turning to Seneca) Let me be rid of this perplexity. Come, Seneca, please — what may you suggest? [There is a long and intolerable silence between the men. Seneca turns his troubled eyes to Burrus. The latter seems to understand the look of inquiry and what is going on in the philosopher's mind, but turns bluntly away. From Seneca's expres- sion there appears to be a mixture, first of scruple, then of fear, that by making the concession now, Agrippina might become dangerous afterwards.] Seneca (to Nero in tones of sullen brevity) You first are Emperor and then, her son ; Let Anicetus finish what's begun. Burrus He knocked at virtue's gate, but entered not! Titus {glaring at Seneca) O thou philosopher, thou stoic false! Declaimer of so many soaring truths, MYRRHA 125 To what hast thou now fallen? Thou, of all Men whom I honored, far above the vile And vulgar standard of this age, to stain Thy hands in this most heinous matricide. Thy words have now forever blotted out The good in thy philosophy. Thou fool ! [Enter messenger] Messenger (to Nero) Augusta prays that Caesar come to her. Curtain SCENE II The same night. Place — Baiae Scene 2 : An apartment in the villa of Agrippina on the shore of the Lucrine Lake. A large doorway on the right at hack commands a view of a graduating terrace full of shrubbery, roses, pomegranates and an abundance of flowers, while statuary and plashing fountains cast shadows of the moon across the garden. In the distance lies the Lake. To the left in the room and set forward is a large divan enclosed on three sides and hung with hand- some tapestries. 126 MYRRHA Nearby there are a lamp and the accessories of a Roman lady's toilet. As the curtain rises Agrippina is seen clad in white, reclining at full length on the couch. She appears intensely nervous and her maid is endeav- oring to soothe her and make her rest easily. Agrippina (half rising) Enanthe, has the messenger returned? The night wanes, while I long to see my son. Enanthe Not yet, Augusta. Agrippina He should render thanks To Jove that I am from that shipwreck safe. Enanthe Augusta, try to sleep. Agrippina No, no, not now. [Sadly] You have not yet lived long enough to know The ardent nature of a mother's love. A potent love — ^yet, such a helpless love ! When children suffer, mothers suffer more. [Rising and sitting on the edge of the couch] Forget I cannot. What could cause that wreck? The sea was calm — Enanthe Yea, lady Empress, calm. Agrippina If I remember, in the outer dark MYRRHA 127 A ripple hardly on the silvery waves And regular their murmurs on the shore. Enanthe Most strange, Augusta, yet the sea has moods, — Agrippina Has not the night a more than common calm? The very elements seem not in league — A dimness and no more — a placid sea. Enanthe For this, he will be thankful, — you are safe. Agrippina (nervously) Will he be kind? O when will he be here? See mother-love lives like a beggar's joy; On lesser lives — it waits without reward. My wrongs ! I could make all the senate weep At my offended dignity. O child Have I o'er-stepped the bounds of loving? Child, Am I not mother of a Caesar still? My joys, my only joys are centered there. Ambition with late sorrow for its sins, Hunts me too hard. He calls me "mother", still. [Smiling] His eyes were filled with tears the other night. As if some anguish held his heart in pain When he so urged me go to Antium : I answered I was not in health to go ; — [Abruptly] Enanthe, has the messenger returned? Enanthe From yonder terrace I will watch his way. [Exit Enanthe] 128 MYRRHA Agrippina (to herself) I wonder if it was an accident. The galleys lay around and idly rolled Upon the waves where I was fain to die. Most sure, the wrong was not in Neptune's will: His pity 'twas that saved me from the wave. What's yet unplayed by Nero's wickedness ? Which of us two sinned most? Ah, poignant thought ! By former evils, easily we err ; If so, then fits this murderous policy. To die by Nero — my Imperial son, — To die by my own son — no, Nero, no ! It was the sea, the smooth sea treacherous. Yet be there fickle winds in crime, that care Naught for the strongest bonds. No cause, no cause,^ — What mad events find fav'ring periods In this apparent seemliness of life! [Starting up] Why now come back the augur's words of bane: "Thy son shall reign but kill his mother." ah! Not he I've dewed with tears in his small crib And nursed and tended in his baby ills ! A lying fiend was that astrologer! Besides, I will not die! But is this I? I feel so lonely. Mem'ry will not fail. But with Ambition's eyes, in darkest night Sees like the owl. Above, the Furies' locks Drip fire into the niches of the past. Give answer. Honor, Power, your summons set MYRRHA 129 Against my conscience. O remorseful mind By death alone art thou out-paramoured ! Time is cast down. The sun turns upward, so ! [Pause] Clear up thy sorrows, conscience, so increased By this outrageous Fate ; aye ! Fate's the word ! — Ere fraud and vice were fashions, Fate was here And trampled shouting, on life's sacraments, In scorn and hate of all their weaknesses. I am Fate's paramour — a ruined life Near strangled by a son Fate bade me bear, — Fate slew my husband that this child might reign : And my hand made to slay him, pitiless ! 'Tis done, 'tis done. Foul deed, and foul Remorse ! A fault confessed is barely fault at all. One cannot change what was decreed and writ Far back in star-dust. That which passeth must Have come to pass. See now, I shrink no more. Why halt or waver at Fate's hissing snakes? Look at these hands ! blood-guilty, I confess. Yet, if I'm guilty, I'm betrayed by Fate. But O not death, that was not in my Fate. [Pause] Death, is it thou whom bravest souls revere With fearsome awe? Art thou that storm on Time's Foam-fretted shore that launches human souls On Charon's bank? Art thou that tempest wild O'erturning Life ; that blows forthwith a wind In thunder crash to shake Creations's frame To its primeval atoms? Aye, to die — 130 MYRRHA To cease to be ; the wilting, falling off Of finest wits: — to die — the fear to be What we were ne'er before ; a counting house Which keeps the keys itself; where all the past Is lost, yet being past was lost before We breathed? Birth is the countercheck for Death— The folly of it ! how Death's boldness grows : Our fearing of it troubles all the rests Of life in these our fleshly prisons. O — [Uttering a sob Agrippina throws herself on the couch. A great gust of wind blows out several of the candles. Suddenly at the foot of the divan appears a veiled figure. ] Who comes here? What is this illusion? What do I see? is this a dream outdreamt? What horrid journey takest thou, my soul? Ghost Unmerciful Augusta, basely false ! Agrippina My husband's voice ! Does Claudius still live ? Ghost Who die are drenched in Hell — Agrippina {striking her head with her clenched fist) Once noble mind ! Is this thy record with a backward look? Is my poor spirit torn with whips and snakes ? Or are its thoughts mis-dreaming into shapes That now give birth to yonder flitting ghost? MYRRHA 131 Ghost To mix with devils who torment the soul While foul Eternity doth split on Time — Agrippina To stop infection — O may I awake! Ghost Untimely came my hurt — Agrippina Away, away, You spiteful villain, hence, and quit my sight ! The dead are lying as the living lie. Does no one hear me ? Ghost No one hear thee? Yes, Dead Claudius hears. Agrippina Again! begone, begone! This very night upon the calmest sea, I nearly paid for my offense to you : So now you stand there like some lighthouse tall To shine on billows of insanity. Ghost 'Tis frightful, sleeping in a serpent's bed. With blood we bathe ourselves steeped in hot pits Of clay. Be ready, for thou soon shalt see Thy robes in tatters torn from writhing limbs, Where fire shall be thy pillows laid in slime. Agrippina Would you reverse the inner face of life By some relentless justice? Ghost, there's none In Hell that can make me regret what deeds 132 MYRRHA I have committed, or can prove to me My deeds were evil. So, some shadow now Is holding festival in flesh and blood. Does life snuff out then shackled death gush in And jealous grow in hell at them that live? No nearer to me ! go, I'm going mad ! Ghost Life's but a trifle here — Agrippina Go, go, go, go! [With a shriek she picks up the lamp and hurls it in the corner toward the phantom, then falls to the floor, her hair becoming dishevelled as she leans limply against the side of the couch'] {The figure of a woman is seen suddenly coming through the garden. She pauses at the entrance and knocks gently on the panel] [Enter Myrrha] [The girl looks about the room startled; seeing Agrippina she runs quickly across the room, gazing down upon her compassionately] Myrrha The struggle, anguish of the mind unblest. [Touching Agrippina gently on the shoulder] With Faith ! dear Agrippina, — [Agrippina moves and looks up with dazed eyes] Agrippina Are you flesh And blood ? O child, would you upbraid me too ? Myrrha I'm Myrrha, Lady, like you \om and sad. MYRRHA 133 Agrippina Sweet voice, dear Myrrha; yes, I know you now. But why, why have you come to me? I am A wicked woman, sorrowful, bereaved. Myrrha Therefore, I came in this extremity; Life's riches are not of sufficient worth; All earthly things shall pass — Agrippina How good you are. Myrrha Nay, there's the Triumph ! Comfort Christ doth give In all our woes, none ever yet of Him Asked sympathy in vain. Agrippina What do you mean? Are you a Christian? of a sect despised, — A foolish superstition^ — ^say not so ! Myrrha In serving Christ, then best I serve the world : All that we own, His gifts of love — Agrippina Ah, dear? Myrrha Who strings the nerves, who reds the blood? Who lights The eyes and works the brain? Agrippina We end in clay 134 MYRRH A Then conjure up new vice from ashes dead. Breed like the rats and fiUhy toads of night. Myrrha He promises a Ufe that never ends : — Agrippina (sarcastically) I keep then my artistic conscience; Reset the wrong and silly balances Of soul in some good devils' shadowland? By Hades! I cannot imagine it. 'Tis madness. Myrrha Nay, not so. Agrippina Deceitful words — Why do I stand debating, wasting breath? Death is the surest of our attributes, No wild uncertainty in holding that! And if 'twere not? Long, long have these poor eyes Been dimmed by disappointments ; so, my child. When they are closed, let no more tears be shed By waking in some vague Eternity. Grief's in ourselves 'tis we ourselves who grieve; Set free by death, secure then from all grief. Being rid of sorrow, I'll yield happiness For painless dust beneath the passer's foot. Extinction be my bliss! Gome, when thou wilt! Gome, whether good or ill, thou'lt serve me well. Have I not paid the price of earthly joys? With that receipt, would you have me pay more MYRRHA 135 And be the sport of spirits after life? [Pause] I know you Myrrha, to be virtuous; Christ's teachings their attractions have, I grant, For you and others, but for my poor self I much prefer to die than wing the air To unknown climes of more calamity. Myrrha "Help Thou her unbelief/' Agrippina If it be so. What comfort in this great decay of life May come, I'll chance what I have merited. [Enanthe rushes suddenly into the room] Enanthe The guards! A file is coming through the gate. Agrippina At last 'tis Nero, and he comes to me. Enanthe Behold, a storm is sweeping o'er the lake ! [Agrippina hastily adjusts her dress and hair, while Myrrha and Enanthe run about the room put- ting things in order] [Enter Anicetus. He salutes Agrippina] Anicetus The Emperor inquires about thy health? Agrippina {looking towards the entrance expectantly) Is he not here? Why do you come instead? [Becoming angry] You are no friend to come as messenger; 'Tis not long since I made you public jest. 136 MYRRHA [Anicetus places his hand threateningly upon his scabbard] Ah, why your hand upon a sword — and why This file of soldiers? Answer me, at once! Anicetus (roughly) Use not harsh tones to question now. I'm not In humour for more ridicule. Agrippina (white with rage) So, so, O fall some vengeance down ! Ditch-dog ! do you Not know to whom you speak.'* Come you — Anicetus (to his men) Put up Your swords lest fair Augusta swoon. Agrippina For this You'll taste of Caesar's wrath — now go. [At a sign from Anicetus to his men, Myrrha and Enanthe are suddenly seized and carried roughly from the room. Simultaneously a gust of wind from the pending storm blows in putting out all the lights save one feeble taper burning near the divan.] Anicetus His Grace Is meditating higher things than thy White tresses, Lady Agrippina. Agrippina Stand Away from me; and take your guards away. "Ah, why your hand upon a sword — and why This file of soldiers? Answer me, at once!" Act V. Scene 2. MYRRHA 137 Anicetus Do not deceive thy thoughts, we bring no love : We're not excused, in that we take too long To finish that which brought on so much wrong. Why is thy son not here, dost thou know that? [Holding his closed fist in her face] Behold thy Nero's signet ring, — for thee! Agrippina Me, me, his mother? True astrologer! Prepare some incense for offended Heaven ! What was the cause? my son, my darling boy, Have you so terrible an end sought out? Is this the thanks you give your mother, son? [Beating her breasts] So kill, kill, kill, — no, no, no, no, not there I [The taper suddenly blows out leaving the stage in darkness. A flash of lightening is followed by a peal of thunder] Strike here, here, here, my womb that monster bore ! [For a few moments the thunder and lightning continue. Murmurs of the departing soldiers are heard in the distance followed by a far off trumpet call. Suddenly Myrrha is discovered standing in the entrance holding in her hand a lamp. She looks about and listens uneasily, then moves rap- idly into the room, halts in a state of fear, then recovering her self-possession looks downward towards the body of Agrippina which is lying out- stretched on the floor.] 138 MYRRHA Myrrh A (flashing up the lamp) O unreplenished lamp give me more light! The walls spin 'round, the air is flecked with blood! That I imagined — ^no, it cannot be! [Kneeling] O horrible! O helpless, mangled corpse! O cruel, cruel ! see the veins still warm Nor chilled by death. Upon her countenance That proud look marks her as an empress still, To rule some self -enshrined eternity Above ingratitude's most brutal stroke. [Enter Paulus and two Christians, cautiously look- ing about them and towards the entrance. They pause, when they see Myrrha, and speak in whis- pers for a moment. Paulus leaves the group and addresses Myrrha.] Paulus Peace be with thee, my daughter, this sad hour ; Lift up thy heart to heav'n whence cometh help. Myrrha (languidly looking up, then eagerly kneeling at his feet) O bless me Father, for my heart is torn And I am weak before this blast of death ! Paulus Still lives the MASTER who can help and save; Yet, tears will give relief ; — let grief have sway But not the grief of them that have not hope. A little while still mourn thy mistress dead, Then, let us lead thee to some christian home. [He blesses her and retires to his companions. MYRRHA 139 Myrrha rising, turns to the corpse and speaks, kneeling] Myrrha Poor mother ! loving more than loved by son Whose baleful shadow darkens Rome's fair dawn : Stripped of thy mortal strength where now the soul That mocked at all beyond the grave- worms' wit? O Power! where is your sovereign process now, Whose strength would bend the heav'n's diameter ? Ambition's brightest splendor laid in dust! [Tenderly] And yet — in Agrippina much of good There was between the alternating shafts Of primal wickedness; her Empire most Rose from the granite base of mother-love; In that were mixed such strange disquietudes, Ambition cruel, terrible and stern: Withal she was a mother, faithful, true; Yes, virtue's sacred air an echo owned In Agrippina's heart a note of peace Amid the baser discords of the Court. Rest here the blame of her unprosperous deeds Beneath the mantle of maternal love: [Myrrha spreads a veil over the face of the corpse, then rises; Paulus approaches and takes her left hand, gently] Paulus Come child: (Myrrha stands, still looking at the body) the hour is late, let grief have end. Our enemies and hers may find us else; I40 MYRRHA We must not rashly tempt their pagan rage. Come, Myrrha, daughter! Myrrh A (lifting her right hand in supplication toward heaven, over the corpse) Yes, I leave her here, And unto Christ's dear mercy trust her soul. Let Him of her hfe's record scan the scroll. CURTAIN FINIS t 1^ 1 ^ -^0^ ■1°^ ^"•nf.. -. A°^ 4°^ c°\- * v^ ^ -.^P,* ^^^ \, -y. %<^' ^°-^^, * <^ ^. ^ «3j^*.,o«.0 "^i^ ♦.,,» O^ ."o. ^ «.S« ^ ^^ Treatment Date: Oct, 20O9 '^^ •*^< \,^ *^:^!^^^- y"*^ » PreservatlonTechnologles ♦* A^ "^^ "".^BIJ^J* ^^^ yf^^ ° EWORLD LEADER IN COLLECTIONS PRESERVATION '^ ^ • lO/^IBrvA^* ^-P ^ ^ 1^11 Thomson Park Drive • J>' ■^^. 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