K^ »0rtfiiiM of f arte ]Uag& Vi wn *tt *f tfi* IfettaMcI lw ®P* Class / Book r (o j Z , CoiyrightH?. COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. PLAYS BY OLIVER P. PARKER The Winning of Latane Better Than Gold The Valedictory Lone Star COPYRIGHT 1916 BY OLIVER P. PARKER All Rights Reserved to THE NATIONAL DRAMA CO. Goodwyn Institute Memphis, Tenn. CHIS Portfolio of Parker Plays has been prompted by the very cordial reception ac- corded by the best Entertainers in all parts of the United States (Home Talent) to the first edition, and by a recognition of the fact that the General Public loves a play with just enough laughter to brush the tears away and make enjoyable the con- tinual pull at the heart strings as the plot unfolds the old-old-ever-new theme of love. The author therefore presents thru the National Drama Co., of Memphis, Tenn., this new and im- proved edition in the hope that it may prove of some slight assistance to those who favor the better plays and are willing to substitute them for the ordinary. The National Drama Company offers this play on the most liberal terms anywhere to be had, and trusts the integrity of all who may receive a copy not to offer it to the public without express permis- sion for each and every production. Any breach of this trust will be vigorously prosecuted by me. The Author. SPECIAL NOTICE eACH of the following four Plays is pro- tected by United States copyright, with all rights reserved to The National Drama Co., (Goodwyn Institute, Memphis, Tenn.), from whom a written Copyright Priv- ilege License must be had for each and every public production. Their charge of $5.00 covers Copyright Privilege License and a full set of parts for rehearsal. THE AUTHOR. rtirQ^ FEB 23 \W'A^ 43246 o u o o - a tf ^ a ft* is s c ■a I 3© *fi3 f" l § o.£ pi n O ce M ii a * ■x 0) fe.d 8 8 <3 o The Winning of Latane By Oliver P. Parker Copyrighted, 1914 The Winning of Latane CAST OF CHARACTERS. PHILIP P. CASHTON — President Cashton Phosphate Co., and father of Latane. MRS. PHILIP P. CASHTON — Step-mother to Latane, and aids villain. RUTH SPAULDING — Private Secretary to Mr. Cashton, and divorced wife of villain. JULIUS SEARS — First villain, man of millions and suitor for Latane's hand. ROBERT SPARR — Second villain, superintendent Cash- ton Co., and friend of Sears. CYRUS W. GILBERT — Chairman board of directors, Up- land Phosphate Co. TRUSTY HOPKINS— Faithful negro servant. FRANK EFFORTON — Faithful employee of Mr. Cashton, and loves his daughter. LATANE CASHTON — Faithful daughter of Mr. Cashton, and loves Frank. — ALSO— TOMMIE HEINZ — Office boy. RICHARD PRINCE — Newsboy. HARRY FORREST — Messenger Boy. STAGE SETTING — Any dark or dingy scenery. Doors R. and L. Office desk or table, with ohair and some papers, L. Counter, or table, R., with several bottles on it, and one large bottle partly filled with clean water. Half dozen soda fountain glasses. Such other apparatus for chemical laboratory as are convenient. The more the better. ACT I. SCENE — Laboratory, Cashton Phosphate Com- pany; morning. COSTUMES AND MAKE-UP— Miss Spani- eling, young woman in neat working dress. Trusty — Old negro, bald wig, working clothes. Sparr — Young man, clean shaven, nobby business, suit. Frank — Young man, neat business suit, clean shaven. Sears — Prince Albert, silk hat, gloves and cane. Mr. Cashton — Man of sixty, gray hair and side- burns. Boys — Any old way. Ruth — (Enters, left, on curtain. Looks about room and calls.) Trusty, oh, Trusty-Trus-ty. Trusty — (Off right.) Yassam, Miss Spauldiir, I'se er comin' fas es I kin. (Enters R.) Dat ding- busted furnas jes' won't git hot. I'se been er mon- keyin' wid hit eber since afo' day. En Massar Frank tole me ter be sho' ter have hit hot when he cum back fum Washin'ton. I got er good fiah in her now, but I'se afeard I got smut all ober me. Kin yer see any on ma face? Ruth — (Laughing.) Well, there isn't any show- ing, Trusty. (Sits at desk and arranges papers.) Trusty — Ef hit done show hit's alright. Hit's jest whut shows dat counts. Ruth — That's right. The world judges by what it sees. And upon a fair face smut shows plainest. Trusty — Dat's de 'vantage er bein' black. 'I neber seed hit afore. Ruth — You are a great philosopher. Run into the main office and get my typewriter. I am going to remain down here and work with you and Mr. Efforton today. Trusty — (Going L.) Yassam. We's glad ter have you. Massar Frank don't talk much when he's at wuk, 'ceptin' when Miss Latane cums en helps 'em, but I 'speck he'll talk ter you. (Exit L.) Ruth — If all my work were as pleasant as this I do for Mr. Efforton, my days would not be so long and tedious. (Enter Trusty, L., with typewriter.) Trusty — Here yer is. Whar mus' I put her? Ruth — Here on this desk will do. (T. places type- writer.) Thank you, ever so much. Trusty — You'se eber so welcum. (Looks at hands.) I may have got sum smut on her, but her complexun is about de same es mine, 'en I guess (with dignity) de worm Id '11 never see hit. Ruth — Has Mr. Efforton come to the office yet? Trusty — Nome, but Mr. Sparr have, en he didn't want me ter take dat typewriter, uther. He said he needed you up dar. Ruth — I will look after my work in the main of- fice when I have finished here. Trusty — Dat's right. You stay wid us. I 'spec I better see 'bout dat funnace. I'll be glad when I gits er permoshun, so'se I won't haf ter git so black en dirty. (Exit K.) (Enter Harry, messenger book in hand.) Ruth — Good morning, Harry. Harry — Good mornin', Miss Spaulding. (Offers book.) Some messages for you. (She takes two mes- sages out, and signs book, banding it back.) Have you moved your desk down here? Ruth — Only for today. I'm doing some special work for Mr. Efforton. Harry — Any messages to go out? Ruth — I do not think of any. Harry — That new superintendent up in the main office is kinder sore, ain't he? Ruth — Why do you say that ? Harry — I ask for you, en he said, "She's down in the furnace room, playing hookie, while the boss is away." Ruth — He likes to be unpleasant, Harry. I guess he's bilious. Harry — Ef de guy gits too bilious Mr. Frank'l give 'em de rest cure. Everybody in town is sayin' Mr. Frank is goin' ter be rich. What's he done? Tommy — (Entering.) He ain't done nuthing, but work. (Messenger boy is heard out L., crying papers.) Dick — (Off stage L.) Mornin' papers. Paper, Mister? (Enters L.) Mornin', Miss Spauldin'. Don't yer want er paper ter read all about Mr. Frank's big invention. The paper's full about him. Ruth — Yes, thank you. (Hands him coin and takes paper.) Dick — (Pointing out news item.) There it is on the front page. I guess he won't be hittin' 'em up down here like er miner any more. Ruth — (Looking at paper.) O, that is so nice for Mr. Efforton. He deserves all they say. Trusty — (Entering R.) Gee Whilliker, Miss Spauldin', Massar Frank said fur me not ter let any- body in heah, 'ceptin', you, en I done got de whole darn town flockin' down heah. Ruth — They are going now. Just listen, Trusty, what the papers are saying this morning about Mr. Efforton. (Heads.) "Mr. Frank Efforton leaves Washington tonight with Letters Patent on the greatest invention of the year. He is receiving flat- tering offers, but declines them all." And just a lot of nice things. Trusty— 1 knowed it. I knowed it. He ain't been shot up in heah fur so long fur nuffin'. Ruth— And just think, the most important is yet to follow. Run now, boys, we must get to work. (.Boys exit L., meeting Sparr.) £^ Then, when I was happiest, he found another beauti- ful girl and by abuses and unbelievable treatment, drove me out into the world, penniless and friend- less, broken in health and wholly unfit to live. And now, when I have found pleasant employment, he comes across my path again with the avowed inten- tion of wrecking the life of another noble girl. Sparr — (Aside.) Naughty boy. Ruth — If you love me, as you have just declared, will you do me a favor? Sparr — Why, of course, I will. What is it ? Ruth — Help me save this innocent girl from such a wreck. Sparr — You and I against Julius Sears would be ll as straw in the wind. He will have Latane round his finger before Efforton knows he is on the field. Ruth — Promise me you will not aid him and I will give you the key to the vault, or any other information you wish. Sparr — I promise. (Enter Tommy, L.) Tommy — Sir. Sears wishes to see you, Mr. Sparr. Sparr — Bring him down. (Exit, T., L.) Ruth — (Going R.) Please do not let him know I am here. (Exit, R.) (Enter Sears, L., quickly and full of life.) Sears — Bah, jove, Robert. Glad to see you. (They shake hands.) Sparr — It's the same old sporty Julius of the college days. How glad I am to see you. Sit down. You travel faster than telegrams. Sears — Nothing like being swift, Robert. (Pull- ing off gloves.) You see, I learned that Miss Cash- ton would arrive this morning and I wanted to be here to greet her. O, my boy (claps him on back), she is a dandy. Sweet, modest and beautiful. And I mean to make her my next Mrs. Sears. By the way, who was that skirt who left just as I came in? Up to your old tricks, eh ? Sparr — She was our private secretary, that's all. Sears — Private secretary might mean anyone. Who was she, I say.? Sparr — Her name is Ruth Spaulding. Sears — (Startled.) You mean — Sparr — Yes, Mrs. Sears, that was — Sears — Will that woman haunt me always ? Sparr — She ought to. Sears — Not on your life. She will make trouble here. We must get her away. Sparr — Not yet. I'm playing a little game of my own here, and I need her myself. You see, she has the confidence of this fellow Efforton — Sears — Pardon me, but I want to know is Latane in love with him. Sparr — Hopelessly. Sears — Oh, I'll bring her to terms alright. Go on and tell me about this Efforton fellow. Sparr — Well, he is a young man here in the plant who does pretty much as he pleases. A poor boy who was taken in by Mr. Cashton a long while ago. 12 He is a genius at chemistry and mechanics, and has perfected a wonderful process for the separation of phosphate from the crude ore; and a furnace also to use in connection with his process. Miss Spaul- ding handles his correspondence with the Washing- ton attorneys, and— well, you know the rest. I want these secret processes. Sears— Ah, I see. I thought there was a nigger in the woodpile somewhere. She makes a fellow un- derstand that she is saving herself for some fellow at home, don't-cher-know. Sparr — Well, he's your man. Sears—This is getting interesting. I have been reading about these inventions in the press, but I did not think they would ever interest me. I always wait until these poor devils have worked out their inventions, and then I propose to organize a big corporation to promote their interests. They usually get rich— in EXPERIENCE— and I get the inven- tions. Perhaps, ah, it occurs to me that this fellow may need some financial assistance. Hey? Bright idea ? Sparr— Re is as poor as a church mouse, but he has a way of sifting everything down to rock bot- tom. I advise you to try something else. Sears— By George ! He's got his bluff in on you, alright. You watch me bring him round where he will eat out of my hand. (Looks right and left.) Are we alone? Sparr— Quite. We are in his laboratory. Sears— ( Looking round room.) You don't mean to tell me that fellow calls this a laboratory ! Sparr — Isn't it a dandy? Sears— Why I could drink all the chemicals in his stock and'not miss a meal. And you tell me he has worked out in this place a great process? Sparr— This is the spot. Sears — What's he doing away "from here today? Sparr — Declining big salaries and offers princi- pally. Sears — Why doesn't the fool accept some of them ? Sparr— Oh, he wants to keep them in this com- pany and — well, you see when he marries Latane — Sears — And so you think I won't get her. Sparr— I never saw you fail, Julius, but take my 13 advice and fight like Harry, for you are up against a man. Sears — Alright, then fight it shall be. I need your help. Are you with mef Sparr — Provided it does not interfere with my plans. Sears — You say your plans are to get the secret processes. If you will do as I say it will be easy to rob this girl's father of the company and patents and his daughter, too. The company and patents I will give you. Is that satisfactory? Sparr — Do you really mean it, old chum? Sears — Yep. She is cheap at any price. Now if you are agreed I will tell you some of my plans. First, this Ruth Spaulding must be gotten away from here. She will make truoble. Can't you make love to her and get her to leave the offices? Sparr — I tried that, but couldn't hit a lick. Sears — Then DRIVE her away. Here, give her this check. It is for $5,000. I ought to have given her something anyhow. Tell her to go and rest. She needs it. Sparr — I think she will go for this sum. Sears — Now, listen. You say this Efforton fellow is going to keep his inventions in this company. That is all I want to know. The rest is easy. This girl's father is a good fellow, but he wants to Be rich. I am going to play on this line. I have some rich friends in the city who will join me in a great big scheme to organize the leading phosphate companies into a trust. The plans are already under way, and they are subscribing to large blocks of stock to give the matter a good front. Of course, you understand the thing is a farce. They are going to Mr. Cashton and propose this matter. They are to tell him he has been selected as the President of the consolidated companies, with $5,000,000 of the stock in lieu of his company AND THESE PATENTS. Now, when everything is in shape I am to come out as the chief promoter of this affair. Don't you think his daughter will feel impressed with my generosity to her father and be kindly disposed to me ? Besides, my twenty millions ought to mean something to her. Sparr — Julius, you are great. I wish you luck. Miss Cashton refused me once, but I do not think U she can refuse a jolly good fellow like yourself. I will do whatever you ask me, for I see now that you are not going to lose. Sears— Of course I am not going to lose. You coach Mr. Cashton on this matter, and try to get Efforton to fall in. If he seems to feel afraid let him down easy. I will get his patents for you. Or, if not, give you their value in something else. Sparr— Thanks, old chap. Sears— Don't mention it. (Rising.) I must be going. Latane will be here pretty soon. I am to go with her mother to meet her. Do you know her mother? Poor old soul. She is crazy for the girl to marry me. She will be our first lieutenant. Ha, ha. Get busy now, and when I return I want to learn that Ruth Spaulding is gone. I'll see you here tomorrow morning. Keep your eye down the gun, and remember— his company for you— his daughter for me. (Exit, L.) Sparr— -What a pleasure it is to feel that the girl who would not listen to my pleadings is to be the wife of the greatest debauche New York ever pro- duced. T rus ty— ( Enters, L.) I kain't stay up dar no longer. Mr. Frank tole mje ter have de funnace hot. Sparr— It is strange that I can give no orders that do not come in conflict with his. Tell Miss Spaulding I wish to speak to her. (Exit, T., R.) When I get this company . . . (Enter Ruth, R.) Miss Spaulding, I've been sitting here thinking of you, and have decided a great question in your favor. You deny me the pleasure of providing for your happiness, but I ask that youjio not deny me the pleasure of feeling that I have done what you would let me do to make you happier. I have already promised you I'd not aid Mr. Sears, and I shall keep that promise without asking you to give me those reports. Here is a check for $5,000 which I ask you to accept as from a friend. My father left me plenty of money and I won't miss it. If you will promise me to go and rest, and remain away from this work one month, I will give it to yoa. Ruth — Mr. Sparr, you are very kind, but I must decline the offer. As for the reports, I have already 15 decided not to give them to you. Mr. Efforton has confided in me and I mean to keep the trust. I was mad when I promised you. I think I shall remain here and work. JSparr — Look here, Miss Spaulding. You cannot afford to take this position. Here is happiness and comfort for you. Go live in luxury, and when this gives out I will give you more. Ruth — I have given you my decision, Mr. Sparr, and it is as unchangeable as the law of the Medes and Persians. I am needed here, and shall stay. (Sits at desk.) Sparr — What a noble girl you are. I love you more than ever. Tell me you do care. (Attempts to embrace her.) Ruth — (Rising quickly.) Stop ! Don't touch me ! Sparr — Don't scold me like that. I didn't mean to insult you. Ruth — Your presence is the greatest insult you could offer me. You have lied to me. You have tried to bribe me. And then you would disgrace me. Julius Sears gave you that check and prompted you to these insults. I can see his black hand in all you say. I know it too well. Indeed, I have suf- fered much at his hands, but through it all, thank heaven, I have remained true and pure. And if your bribe were ten thousand times what it is, I'd say NO! (Points to door.) Now, go! (Enter Sears, L.) (Ruth screams and faints in chair.) Sears — (Laughing.) Why don't you go. She'll come back in a few minutes and scratch your eyes out. Leave her in my hands. Sparr — Julius, you'd better get out of here. Sears — I'm able to take care of myself. Leave us. (Exit Sparr, R.) Ha, ha, fainted — I've seen you faint before. How natural you look. This is the first time I have had the pleasure to see you since I drove you out of your gilded cage. Ruth — O, go away. Go away. Sears — Aha, Ruth Spaulding. What are you do- ing here? Ruth — You should be satisfied with the destruc- tion of my life, and not come here to drive me away from the only means I have of earning my daily bread. 16 Sears — (Sneeringly.) Go! Get out of my sight, and stay away, or I'll punish you so that you can not earn your daily bread. Go ! I say ! Ruthr- (With, feeling.) You have left but little life in my poor body, but I mean to use what strength I have to prevent you from bringing shame and dishonor to the fair name of Latane Cashton. (Enter Frank, L., standing at door surprised.) Sears — (Savagely.) You drive me mad. (Starts at her. Frank seizes him roughly by collar and jerks him back, stepping between Sears and Miss S.) Frank — You puppet ! What does this mean ? Who are you ? Sears— 1 am Julius Sears and she is my wife. Frank — That does not give you the right to abuse her. Sears — Don't you dare dictate what I shall do. Frank — (Laughing at him.) A man of many millions, and standing high in society, pretending to be a gentleman, stoops so low as to try to intimidate a poor, defenseless woman, cast upon the world by your lasciviousness and infidelity. Not dictate to YOU what to do? Julius Sears, you are in my of- fice and in the presence of a lady — take off your hat. (Points to hat, and holds pose as Sears finally slowly removes hat.) Now, remember what I say — if ever I hear of you mistreating that woman, or in- terfering with her happiness in any way whatso- ever, I shall shoot you as I would a viscious dog. There is the door — use it. Sears- — (With a sneer.) O, very well. There'll be another day. (Exit Sears, R.) Frank — I beg your pardon for such conduct in your presence, Miss Spaulding. What was that man doing here? Ruth — You were kind to defend me, and I thank you. Mr. Efforton, I would like to talk to you as a sister to a brother; may I? Frank — I do not deserve such confidence, but if I can be your friend you have but to tell me how. Ruth — It is not that. Rather, I would favor you. Right over vour head a heinous plot is being laid to destroy your happiness; and not only yours, but that of another who is dearer to vou than life itself. 17 Frank — For Heaven's sake, Miss Spaulding, what do you mean. Go on. Ruth — This man is planning a great scheme by which he expects to win Mr. Cashton's favor and marry the girl who loves you. Frank — Let him play his game, Miss Spaulding. Mr. Cashton has too much sense to be led into such a scheme. And you need not give yourself any anxiety as to Latane. You have proven yourself my friend and I am going to tell you my heart's sweetest se- cret. I love her better than my own life. She has been my idol ever since I was eight years old, and the days that have passed since then, without excep- tion, have given me a better right to believe she will be true. She is not engaged to me, nor has she ever told me in words that she would be true always ; but in far sweeter ways she has told me much more. She seems a part of my life. The very blood that runs in my veins is purer and better because it knows her as a partner in my heart. She is grappled to me with hooks of steel which have been forged in my hot ambition to win for her, and tempered by her own lovely appreciation. O, I tell you, my friend, I may doubt all others, but rather than feel afraid of her in any crisis, I'd lay me down and die. Sears may steal the company, but Latane's heart is far be- yond his dirty reach. Ruth — Please do not take any chances. This man will stop at nothing to win. (Enter Sparr, R.) Sparr — Why, good morning, Efforton. Sparr — I have been down helping Trusty with the furnace. Frank — That is kind of you, but I'm sorry you troubled with it. Miss Spaulding, the work I want- ed you to do is not ready as I thought it would be. I have another experiment or two to finish, and will then give it to you. Ruth — Then I will go to the main office. Let me know when you want me. i/Y^—Thank you. I will. (Exit Ruth, L.) Sparr — I want to congratulate you on your great success, Efforton. Frank — Thank you very much. I am quite happy over it. I hope with these advantages our little company will forge to the very front. You know. Mr. Sparr, I feel that I owe Mr. Cashton a very great debt. I'm going to keep these inventions in the company so that he will get the full benefit of them. Sparr — I have been wondering what you would do with them, and congratulate you on your deci- sion. With these Mr. Cashton will have no trouble getting into the big trust. Frank— What trust? Sparr — Why the big trust that is forming. Haven't you heard about it ? Mr. Cashton is to be president, and gets $5,000,000 of stock in lieu of this companj?- and your patents — that is, provided you permit them to go in. What do you think of this proposition? Frank — I know absolutely nothing of the plans you speak of, and cannot give an opinion until you have told me imore about it. Sparr — It's a great plan. Eight of the leading phosphate companies have agreed to enter a gigantic trust to control the output and price of phosphate. Now what do you think? Frank — Where are the head offices of this trust to be? Sparr — That has not been decided? Frank — Who are the directors of this trust? Sparr — TKey have not been decided upon. Frank — What eight companies are entering? Sparr — I forget just now. Frank — Who is promoting this combination ? Sparr — O, ah, er, Mr. Sears ; but he does not want it known just yet. A great plan like this must be kept a secret, you know. Frank — What does Mr. Sears get out of the mat- ter? Sparr — (Winks at audience.) O, er, er, he gets a commission. Frank — And you think it a good proposition? Sparr — Certainly I do, and I am sure you will encourage Mr. Cashton to take the step. Frank — I am going to encourage Mr. Cashton to take several steps in the opposite direction. Sparr — It would seem to me that you ought to do all you can for him. He has done a great deal for you. Frank — Stop right there. You need not remind 19 me of my obligations. I will look after them my- self. Besides, you are wasting my time. Mr. Cash- ton is president of this company. Go talk to him. Sparr — O, very well. (Exit, L.) Frank — Miss Spaulding was right. The net is being laid, and Kobert Sparr is strangely interested. I cannot fight this matter as I want to, for the rea- son that I love the girl Sears is trying to marry, and Mr. Cashton might misunderstand my motive. I will do what I can to save him, and trust Latane, as I have always done. Trusty — (Enters, K.) Hello, dar, Massar Frank. Frank — Good morning, Trusty. Is the smelting furnace hot? Trusty — Yassar. I'se been bavin' hit roun en roun' wid dat bloom-gasted furnace. Say, Massar Frank, kin yer see any smut on mah fase? Frank — Why, I think I see a small speck which starts at your hair and runs down to your chin that way, and from your right ear across and around to your left ear that way. But it looks more like shoe polish than anything else. Trusty — G'wan, Massar Frank. Frank — Alright. Keep that fire going. I will be back in a few minutes and want you to help me with some particular work. (Exit, L.) Trusty — (Going behind table.) Ef I got ter do any er dis busticatin' business, I guess I'd better be get-tin' limbered up. I'se watched Massar Frank er lots, en I reggin I kin git by on hit alright. Now, ef I 'members 'erectly, dis business must be oared on jest zactly perpendicular ere er fellow '1 get his hade blowed off. (Takes up bottles and spells label slow- ly.) S-C-H-R-U-M-P-D-I-L-L-A-S-E-C-U-M-P-I-I. (Looks at audience.) Now what d'yer think er dat fur one word ? I bet dat stuff'd kill er man five hun- dred yards. (Takes stopper out and smells, break- ing into violent coughing and sneezing. Hurriedly puts stopper back and drives it down with fist. ) Git in dar, cawk, en hole hit down ef yer kin. By golly, dat stuff smells jest like hermonia. (Sets bottle on far corner of table.) Go 'way back, Mr. Skrup- dillumpkin, en stink yo-self ter def. (Takes up an- other bottle and spells.) P-H-O-S-P-H-A-T-I- C-L-A-S^B-O-O-M (Pronouncing) Boom. (Sets 20 bottle down quickly.) Aw, don't want any er dat. Sounds lak it mought shoot. In dis business de main thing is ter deal wid things gentle in dey action. Done found dat out already. (Spells another one.) S-A-L-T-P-E-T-R-E. Aw, I knows dat won't shoot. (Pours small amount of gunpowder into crucible and turns away so that operator concealed under table may touch off with lighted cigar. As cloud of smoke rises above his head, Trusty looks back over shoulder and sees what has happened. Gazes up at vanishing smoke. Another small explosion, at which he jumps and grunts. He turns bottle around and examines label carefully, taking occasional squint at empty crucible.) Salt Petre, I don't understan' you. How you 'spec me ter invent sumpin' when you will not stay in de fiah en cook? (Picks up another bot- tle.) Now we'se er git-tin' into de liquids, en ef I kin fine dat bottle what Massar Frank gits when he doctors me fur grippe, de liquids'l be gittin' into us. Dat dram he gin me was de propper stuff, alright, though de bottle didn't have de right name, un de stuff looked jest lack water. But hit sho was good. (Reads label as before.) T-U-R-P-E-N-T-I-N-E (set bottle down). Git outen de way, turpentine. You'se dangerous, I know. 'Fraid ter monkey wid yer. (Same business.) N-I-T-R-O-G-L-Y-C-E-R-I-N- E. Dat's er mighty big name, but hit done soun' bad. (Goes to big book on corner of table and looks it up.) Aw, yes. Hypoglickum. I thought I was familiar wid dat stuff. Dat is jest what I wants ter 'speri- ment wid. I knowed dat in all dis drug store dar wus somepin' er fellow could monkey wid, widout shootin' de top er de house off. Er fellow mustn't be erf eared uv er thing jest 'cause hit's got er big name. I'll put dis'n on ter bile ontwil I kin make man udder selections. I'll bet wid dat thing as er starter, I kin invent sumpin' worth er cotton sack fuller five spots. (Pours some in crucible and has tremendous explosion.) This explosion can best be made with shot-gun, operated by operator under ta- ble, muzzle of gun pointed up close to crucible. Trusty has great fright, Runs round to center, knees smiting each other, and holds bottle at arms length, letting mouth of bottle point towards his face and pushing it away with his hand. Starts 21 back behind table walking as if slipping up on some- thing. Telephone rings. Another fright. Takes down receiver. Hello. (Bottle gets pointed to his face.) Er, er, hold on jest er minit. (Puts receiver down and crosses his leg on bottle to hold it. Takes up receiver.) Now what is dat? Yassar, Massar Frank, ebry thing am very quiet. Alright, sah. (Hangs up receiver and disengages bottle from legs, taking it back to table and looks at label.) Hypo- glickum, you sho am rambunctious. Git in yo hole. Er little er you goes er long ways. (Picks up little red flag and sticks in bottle.) I'll mark you good en plain, en nebber 'sperment wid yer no mo'. Now I thinks I'll devote de rest er my time lookin' fur dat bottle what got grippe medicine in hit. (Heads on hurriedly, pronouncing clearly and correctly.) Hypo, hydro, Hilo, Nitro, um, urn, extractum, Aqua regia distillatum. (Looks at audience.) I bet dat las'n am er gun fur sho'. (Reads on, looking at big bottle.) Alco, aloo, alco. (Looks at audience and smiles.) Dat don't soun' jes right, but de bot- tle got de 'erect 'pearance, sho's yer bawn. (Backs off and squints at label.) I don't want ter mak er mistake heah, 'cause I'se gwine ter swallow some er dat stuff, en er sploshun lack dat lasn't 'd be extra hazardous. (Shakes bottle.) 00! Jes' look at de beads. I wonder kin I string em all. (Pours small amount in glass and tastes cautiously, smacking his lips.) Alcohol nuffin'. You'se licker, you is. You kin change yer name, but I knows yer smell. (Pours more and drinks it.) De man whut invented dat stuff ain't no blame fool. (Trick pistol rises out of desk and points at back of his head. Note: This trick pistol can easily be arranged as follows: To the end of a rod thirty inches long fasten a bright revolver, and bore a hole in top of table to admit rod. Operator under table works it so as to keep Trusty covered wherever he goes.) Well, I guess I'se made. ernuf 'scoveries. En now I feel punectly limbered up en ready to help Massar Frank. (Turns so as to bring nose up against pistol. Wig turns wrong way if wearing that sort. Holds pose instant, eyes, bleared. Begins to tremble and slips out to center, gun keeping him covered. Tries to evade gun, but can't. Finally gives up and settles down on knees, 22 hands up, in C, back to L.) I, I, I, I, give up, yer got me. (Enter Frank.) Dat you, Massar Frank. (Frank laughs heartily.) — Frank — The joke is on you this time, Trusty. Trusty — I don't mind de joke, but I sutitnly don't lack fur dis gun ter be on me. Kain't yer bale me out, er do sumpin'? Frank — (Removing coat and putting on apron.) Why, of course I will. Trusty — Well, git er hussle on yer, dat fool thing mout take er fool notion ter shoot. (Gun shakes.) Now'd yer see dat? Frank — See what? ■ Trusty — Ebry time I moves hit shakes hit hade jest like er durn billy goat. Destract de mind er dat thing ontil I kin git behind sumpin'. Frank — (Going behind table.) Alright. Now you watch me. I'm going to control it by telepaJthy. When I think you are my friend — Trusty — Say, Massar Frank, stop dat flap doodle en git dat gun ofen me. Frank — Alright. (Takes gun and pulls rod out, laying it down on counter. Pulls Tommie out from under table and says:) Get out of here, Tommy. You've had fun enough. Trusty — (Running after him.) You low down white trash. I knowed you wus under dar. He thought he had me skeered. Frank — I think so, too, Trusty. Trusty — Well den, I guess I wus. I thought dat thing wus some kind uv er thinkin' machine. Frank — It is, Trusty. I leave it here in my ab- sence to protect my valuables. If anyone takes my property it will arrest him. Trusty — Ef dat's de truf, what wus Tommy doin' in heah? Frank — He likes to watch it operate. Come, let's get to work. I will fix the gun so that it will only point to those who want something I have. (Pre- tends to fix gun, and turns back examining liquid in glass.) Trusty — Say, Massar Frank. You say you fixed hit so'se hit will pint to er fellow what wants some- pin' you got? Frank — Yes. _ ? 23 Trusty — (Sticks rod back through hole, and mo- tions to gun to point to him. Takes hold of it and pulls it round. Gun swings back when he turns it loose. Slaps gun and makes it point to him.) Say, Massar Frank. (Gun turns away.) No, wait er minit. (Gets gun set on him again.) Massar Frank ! Look heah. Frank — (Turning round.) What do you want that I've got? Trusty — Some er dat grippe medicine. Frank — (Sets out bottle.) Just help yourself. Trusty — All er dis? Frank — Yes, but I advise broken doses. Trusty — I'll jest make de fust brake wi der haf er glass. (Frank is busy examining liquids in glasses.) Say, Massar Frank, what am dat in dat fofe bottle down dar ? Not dat'n, dat'n. Frank — Why, that's nitroglycerine — the most dan- gerous explosive known to cheimstry. Don't ever monkey with that bottle, Trusty. Trusty — You needn't worry. Frank — Now, Trusty, you must not bother me. I have some important work to do, and you must be quick to assist me. Trusty — You goin' ter invent sumpin'? Frank — Trusty, can you keep a secret? Trusty — Jest lack er passel er women? Frank — I'm a rich man today. Soon I shall be able to feel that I have repaid Mr. Cashton for his great kindness to me. Trusty — What you goin' ter git outen de jami- beree ? Frank — The satisfaction that comes to him who does his duty. Trusty—Is dat all? Frank — That's enough. Trusty — Say, Massar Frank, do you keer ef de ole nigger speaks what he's er thinkin'? Frank — What are you thinking, Trusty? Trusty — 'Bout Miss Latane. Frank — Ah, er, er you go down and examine the fire. (Exit T., E.) 'Bout Miss Latane. I'm always thinking 'bout Miss Latane. She has been gone, three months now, and how I would like to see her. Ever since her father took me in, a little street waif, 24 no taller than that (measures height of small boy), her sweet face has been before me as a light in the darkness, leading me into a higher life. To repay her father, and make myself worthy of her love has, been my religion. I have never been discouraged; for I love her, and know she will be true. Trusty — (Entering, R.) De fiah am alright. Frank — Here, hold this beaker. (Trusty takes beaker in which three tablespoons of flour have been placed and allowed to settle in water. Frank pours in more water, stirring so as to make murky.) Ah, that is perfect. (Trusty holds glass up to audience and looks at it.) Trusty — Buttermilk, by gosh ! What you in- venting er cow? Frank — Here, hold this. (Hands Trusty soda pop bottle half filled with water, and five tablespoon- fuls of cooking soda. Picks up bottle with red flag in it. (Trusty backs off.) Trusty — Look out dar, Massar Frank. Ef you goin' ter pour any er dat hypo-glickum in heah, I'd much ruther not hold dis bottle. Frank — O, come on here. I know what I'm doing. Trusty — Dat's whut I thought dis mawnin'. Frank — What made you change your mind? Trusty — Er, er, er come on. I'll hold hit fur yer. Frank — (Pours liberal amount of vinegar in to bottle and as soon as effervescence starts, Trusty slaps hand over mouth and waltzes around over stage much frightened, letting small stream shoot occasionally. This business may be carried on ad lib.) Hold on to her, Trusty. Trusty — You go to de debil. Frank — (Goes and takes the bottle, which has quieted down.) You just didn't know how to hold it. Trusty — Hit wan't me dat couldn't hold it. It wus de bottle. Frank — I'm afraid you'd never make a chemist. Trusty — I don't want to make none, nohow. You make 'em, en I'll sell 'em fur you 15 cents er piece. Frank — You flatter me. Here there is just one other experiment and I believe the work is finished. (Sets out alcohol bottle.) Now, when I call for this you be quick to hand it to me. (Trusty pours out some and drinks it. Frank mixes vinegar and soda 25 in large glass and when it is boiling over calls for alcohol.) Alright with the alcohol . . . (Trusty is drinking.) Confound it. (Enter Latane, L., go- ing up to counter and pours alcohol and hands it over to Frank, smiling.) Why in the devil don't you give me the alcohol? (Reaches out and takes it, pouring into glass, which he hastily exchanges for a full glass of a beautiful red solution, holding it up and looking at it carefully.) Ah, that is wonderful. (Hands it out over counter.) Here, take this, and if you spill one drop of it I'll break your head. (Turns and sees Latane.) Why, hello, Latane. When did you come. Latane — O, I got here in time to hear that ugly word you said. (Offers hand. Frank hesitates.) Frank — My hands are soiled. Latane — (Taking it.) O, that's alright. Frank — If I had known that you were going to wait on me, I should have burned my hands off before asking for the alcohol the second time. You see, Trusty is trying to take your place here with me, and, of course, he can't, Trusty — I likes dat. Latane — Trusty, if you don't wait on Mr. Frank just the best kind, I'll take the job away from you. Trusty — I guess you'll git hit sooner or later any- how. Frank — Er, er, er you go down to the furnace room. Trusty — Alright, Massar Frank. (Exit, R.) Latane — Is that the way you do your assistants? Frank — Some of them. You see, Latane, you have been away, O, so long, and when you blow in just like a ray of sunshine I forget everything but you. The days have been long here since you went away. Latane, do you ever think how happy we used to be here in this old laboratory, in the offices and all around this dear old plant? Trusty — (Enters, R.) De fiah am in fine shape. Frank — Go and keep it that way. Trusty — (Aside.) Mr. Speaker, I smell er mouse. (Exit, R.) Latane — Yes, Frank, never a day passes I do not try to live over again the happy days spent here with you. You see, we grew up together, and — well, I 26 just like to stay around here yet. Really, I believe I am happier here than anywhere else in the world. Trusty — (Entering, R.) De funnace am just as hit wus. Am dar anything else I kin do fur ye? Frank — (Impatiently.) Yes. Go and get into it. Trusty — Alright, Massar Frank. (Starts R. To audience.) Huh? Frank — It makes me very happy to hear you say those things, because my life depends on you for all its joys and sweetness. (Advances.) You can make me — Trusty — Er, Massar Frank, did you REALLY mean fur me ter git into de funnace ? Frank — Yes. Go fry. Latane — O, Frank. Frank — Then you give him a job. Latane — Trusty, go cool the furnace down very, very slowly, and bring it up here — if you had rather. Trusty— I'd ruther. (Exit, R.) Frank — Before your furnace gets here, Latane, I want to tell you of my good luck. My patents have gone through, and it will be but a short time until I can ask you — Trusty — (Entering, R.) Hit refuses ter cum. Lo, lo, lo, look out dar, Miss Latane. You'se on de think- in' machine. Latane — (Picks up pistol.) What is this thing, Frank? Trusty — Hit am er thinkin' machine. When you cum into dis office en want sum alcohol — Frank — (Leaves R., laughing.) I'll be back in a minute. Latane — (Pointing gun at Trusty.) And so you think I came for alcohol, do you. Trusty — Do, do, don't pint dat thing at me, honey. I knows how yer shoots em. En I knows also dat yer didn't cum heah fur ALCOHOL, too. He, he, he. Latane — You are the same old Trusty. Your hair is a bit whiter, but your heart has not changed. I know you are happy here with Frank. Anybody would be. He's such a good and noble fellow. Trusty — Dar he cum, now. Tell him what you jest tole me. Latane — (Going L.) 0, dear, no. I must be go- 27 ing. Keep my secret, Trusty. Good-bye. (Exit, L.) Trusty — Why don't dey tell each udder dey trou- bles. Somebody goin' ter keep foolin' roun' ontwil hit am too late. Dis am a business what kain't wait. Frank— (Enters. R.) Where is Miss Latane, Trusty? Trusty — She's done gone. Frank — It makes a big difference when she goes, doesn't it? Trusty — Massar Frank, you done gone clean blind. Frank — O, maybe not. (Picks up disc.) What is this trash? Trusty — Dat ain't no trash. Wid dat thing swal- lowed down you' thote, you kin sing lack er quartet. Frank — Can you demonstrate? Trusty — Wid ease. (Pretends to swallow disc with great difficulty. Quartette, all but Trusty, con- cealed behind scene, sing familiar plantation song. At beginning of song enter Latane, L., and stands listening. At conclusion, Frank and Latane ap- plaud.) Latane — That was fine. I must go now. Good- bye, Frank. Frank — Good-bye. Come often. We are always glad to have you. You will always find a welcome wherever I am. Latane — I know it. Good-bye. Good-bye, Trusty. Trusty — Good-bye, sweet chile. (Exit Latane, laughing.) Massar Frank, ain't she fine en dandy? Mr. C. — (Entering, L.) Good morning, Frank. Glad to see you back. Frank — Good morning, Mr. Cashton. I meant to come to your office, but Mr. Sparr told me you were engaged on an important matter. Mr. C. — (Showing pleasure.) You bet I was. My boy, I am to be one of the rich men of the city. My office has been full of capitalists talking money. I nope you had good luck in Washington. Frank — Yes, I'm glad to inform you I did. My patents have gone through, and (producing large envelope) here are the Letters Patent. (Gives them to Mr. C.) I mean to give } f ou the full benefit of them. Mr. C. — Why, Frank, these are worth a fortune, my boy, and you give them to me? 28 Frank — Yes, sir. I can never repay you for yoiii great kindness to me. Mr. G. — Tut, tut, boy, you owe me no gratitude. You repaid me long ago. But I'll put these into the big trust we are forming, and pay you a royalty on every ton of phosphate we mine. That will pay you well. By the way, what do you think of this trust \ Frank — I do not know enough about the matter to form an opinion. Sparr had something to say, but he did not know heads or tails, so I decided it was just one of his air-castles. Mr. G. — Air-castles, nothing! It's a fact I'm to be head of the twenty-five million dollar corpora- tion, with five millions of stock all clean velvet. The thing is already settled. O, I'm a rich man at last. Frank — Mr. Cashton, it would make me very happy to see you rich, but I fear this matter is not solid. I advise you to go slow until you can see your way clear. I have good reasons to believe the scheme is a fake. Mr. G. — Why, the wealthiest men in the city are behind it. There is another famous capitalist at the head of the scheme, but his name is being kept secret. Frank — (Smiling.) Mr. Cashton, you are full of a vague idea of millions. That is all. If you are determined to go into this combination I withdraw my offer of the patents. I'm afraid to chuck them into this deal. I tell you with these advantages we can get down to business here in our little plant and make things happen. We can soon be rich and it will be honorable. Now won't you take my ad- vice and get all this tommy rot about millions out of your dear old head, and continue the business we have worked so hard for? Mr. G. — O, you are just afraid of such big game. Everything is coming out alright. I'm going to de- pend on you to stick to me. Frank — If you are counting on me you had better make your position clear. I will not go into the mat- ter. If you are determined to take the step, I give you my resignation. Mr. G.— FRANK! You don't mean it. Frank — I certainly do. If the plans succeed I cannot feel that they are honorable. 29 Mr. G. — O, yes they are, Frank. When our trust is organized, I shall want you to take a position with us. Frank — I don't know anything but to work, Mr. Cashton, but I purpose to work honestly. Therefore I decline to abet the scheme you are entering. Mr. C. — Think over the matter, my boy. I be- lieve you will change your view. Won't you go with me to lunch? Frank — Thank you, no. I have some work to finish, and will write a formal resignation for your records. Mr. G. — I hate to hear you say that. Try to change your mind. (Exit, K.) Frank — (Seated at desk.) It has come at last/ A man spends his life in an honest purpose, and when the goal is within reach, some one tackles him foul. And yet all this comes at a time when I can get out and make a fortune for Latane. "Honor wins. It must be so. 'To days be long, and nights be dark, 'Twixt days that come and go ; Still, honor wins. It's average is sure, He gains the prize who can the most endure ; Who faces issues, who never shirks, Who waits and watches, and always WORKS." And this shall be my text. (Trusty pours some alcohol.) I say, Trusty, the alcohol bill for this company has been enormous for the past month. Trusty — Do you think Miss Latane'll come back? Frank — I say the alcohol bill has been large. Trusty — Massar Frank, do you see any smut on mah fase? (CURTAIN.) ACT II. SCENE — Parlor in Cashton home; evening same day. STAGE SETTING: Small table or writing desk, L. ; center table with wine and water bottles, and six wine glasses, R. Two rockers R. and L. C. COSTUMES— Sears in full evening suit; others dressed well. 30 (Latane seated at desk, head bowed on arms.) Mrs. C. — (Entering hurriedly L., newspaper in hand.) O, just look here, my little millionairess, the papers are full of nice compliments for the man who has asked you to be his wife. Don't be sad. If such a nice man had proposed to me, I'd be up and singing, instead of sitting here grieving as if you didn't have a friend in the world. I believe I am happier than you are. Latane — (Looking up.) I hope you are; for I am miserable. Mrs. C. — Laying hand on her shoulder.) Come come, my dear. Cheer up and be equal to your good fortune. You will be happier after you are married. You owe it to your dear father to accept Mr. Sears' kind offer. Do not fool along with him as you would some ordinary man. Latane — You speak of marriage as if it were a matter of dollars and cents. And I am inclined to believe you would have me marry this man just to make us all rich. You seem to forget that I met him only a few days ago, and that I scarcely know him yet. Mrs. C. — You know that he is rich, isn't that enough ? Latane — No, it is not enough. I regard marriage as a very serious matter, and have looked forward to it all my life; but when I take this step I must feel that it is with a man whom I truly love better than all others. (Eising.) This way I do not feel towards Mr. Sears, and I ask that you do not urge the matter on me further. (Exit, L.) Mrs. 0. — The unfeeling up-start. She thinks she can bring my great plans to naught, but I'll show her she can not. I'm determined that all my schem- ing to get into high society with her shall not fail. I wish I had her chances. I'd accept him so quick it would disgust him. This Efforton fellow is in my way, and I must get him out. If Philip would join me I could close the matter on short notice. There he is now. (Advances to door, paper in hand and talking excitedly. Enter Mr. C, K.) O, Philip, I am dying to see you. (Thrusts paper in his face.) Look, look, look. Read it and then you can appre- ciate what I have to tell you. 31 Mr. G. — (Pushing paper out of his face.) Phew! For Heaven's sake, Elizabeth, have you got delirium tremens? If the news you have is good in propor- tion to your excitement, I prefer that you wait until I have a bite of supper. I am tired. (Advances to chair) and my head is a whirl. I have good news, too. Mrs. G. — O, I know. Let me tell. Mr. G. — No, no. If you are going to do all the talking, I shall surely go to sleep. Mrs. G. — (Acridly.) Thanks. Mr. G. — You may talk in just a minute. I really want to hear what you have to say. Mrs. G. — I knew you did. It just fits in with your good news. It was this afternoon when he — Mr. G. — Did you say supper is ready. Mrs. G. — O, please let me finish. Mr. G. — No, swing on to it, my dear. If you get started there'll be no supper. Mrs. G. — It will be ready in a few minutes. Hurry and tell me your good news. Mr. G. — Well, to begin with, Frank's patents have gone through, and — Mrs. G. — I do not care to hear about them. Mr. G. — But you must. They form the basis of the great plan to organize the trust of which I am to be president. He has spent his life in that dingy old laboratory working out this wonderful process, and now when his fortune is secure, he offers them to me without a penny in return. Mrs. G. — What else could he do? Isn't he your employe, and haven't you kept his soul and body together these years. Mr. G. — Yes, and you must not forget that he has helped to keep our souls and bodies together. Be- sides, he has built my company up to where it is paying me a handsome income, and miany times doubled in value. Mrs. G. — Philip, you are making the mistake of your life. You are bragging on this Efforton fellow entirely too much before Latane. Already she re- gards him as her ideal. And you know you would not want your daughter to marry such a slave to his work. Especially when Mr. Sears wants to marry her. 32 Mr. C. — (Surprised.) What do you mean? MR. SEARS? Who is he? Latane thinkin' of marryin' ? Mrs. C. — Now don't get excited. I will tell you some real live news, if you will let me. Mr. 0. — I don't understand, but we will come back to that later. You are jumping on poor Frank as if he had committed some crime. The idea that he has ever thought of marryin' my daughter is absurd; for, as you say, he is a perfect slave to his work, and thinks of nothing but making our com- pany the biggest in the country. Mrs. C. — Philip, you are blind. Mr. G. — O, they are the best of friends, to be sure, but I think you need have no fear as to this honest, faithful fellow. What if Latane should marry him ? Pile could do worse. Mrs. C— Ugh ! I'd rather see her dead. Mr. 0. — You are too hard on Frank. And as for Latane, I think she can be trusted to make her own choice. But we will not discuss this subject. Let me tell you about my good luck. Sparr, our new superintendent, is a wonderful schemer. He came in this morning with a host of gentlemen in silk hats, and — Mrs. C.—Now you must let me tell that. I— Mr. G.—l insist that you let me finish. He in • troduced these gentlemen, and they began to talk of millions right off the reel. O, I'm rich at last. Mrs. C. — I know more about this than you do. Mr. C. — If you interrupt me another time, I shall leave you and go to bed hungry. The only thing I don't like about the proposition is that Frank will not go into the thing with me. He has resigned his position. I hardly know how I shall do business without him. Mrs. C. — (Waits short space.) Now, are you ready for me to tell you the straight of this affair? Mr. C— Yes, Elizabeth, for if you don't talk you'll bust. Mrs. C. — I see you do not know the cause for all this good fortune. In the first place, I am the one to be thanked for all that has happened today. If there had been no pesky secret inventions, smoky laboratories and such abominable stuff, the happen- ings of today would have been the same. I cannot 33 for the life of me understand why you insist on giv- ing Frank Effort on credit for everything that hap- pens in your office. Mr. G. — Because he makes them happen. Mrs. G. — You champion him on every turn, and yet you confess that he has resigned rather than aid you in this great plan that means wealth and happi- ness. For my part, I want no better evidence that he is either trying to ruin you, or marry your daugh- ter, which is the same thing. Now listen to me. Mr. G. — Go on. Mrs. G. — I'm going to give you some information. Don't be surprised. JULIUS SEARS is the man who is behind this great plant to make you rich. He is wonderful. He has kept in the background be- cause he is afraid you would not understand his mo- tive. A few days ago he met Latane down at the seashore, and fell desperately in love with her. (Mr. C. starts.) O, you needn't get excited. This after- noon he asked her to marry him. He said that he could not place you at the head of this trust until she was engaged to him. Said you might feel that he was trying to buy your daughter. Mr. G. — That is the way a gentleman would look at such a matter. Mrs. G. — O, he is a thorough gentleman. And Latane refuses him as if she had a dozen millionaires to select from, the silly goose, and it is all because of this Frank Effort on. You had better get him out of the way, or you will regret not having done so. Just think of any girl refusing to marry Mr. Sears. Old aristocratic family, high social standing, a score of millions, and everything that goes to make an ideal husband. Why, every girl in the city would jump at Latane's chances. It is simply disgusting for her to keep the dear man in suspense, and it is y our plain duty to tell her so. Mr. G. — I don't understand. Mrs. G. — You will when I have finished with you. (Points to paper.) Look here. Big headlines. "Julius Sears, the wizard of the financial world,'" and goes on to mention cases he has handled with millions of profits for his clients. Now don't you think it a wise plan to have your son-in-law take hold and manage your business? Only this after- 34 noon, when Latane refused him, he came to me, with tears in his eyes, and told me how he had hoped to go down to your office and ask for her hand, and then tell you of this great plan for your happiness. Do be sensible, Philip, and do not let your senti- ment get the best of your good judgment. Surely you feel his powerful hand in the happenings of today. And as for these little things of Frank's, O, why, they just happened to come up with these im- portant matters. That's all. Mr. G. — I have followed your argument very closely, and am forced to agree with you. He has been very kind. I will follow his advice. As for the love affair, I wash my hands of that and turn it over to you. I have implicit faith in your good judgment, and have had ever since you accepted my own offer of marriage. Mrs. G. — O, that was a small matter. Mr. 0. — Indeed! Mrs. G. — Let us not get off the subject. What I want you to do is to get this fellow Efforton out of the way. Let him go, if he wants to. Make him go. Mr. Sears says he is a very poor business man any- way. If he stays in he will spoil everything. Let him go. Make him go, at any price. Mr. G. — Do you think Latane loves Mr. Sears ? Mrs. G. — O, I am sure of that. And as for Frank, well, she just has an old friendly feeling for him. Anyway, you said you would turn this matter over to me. Mr. G. — And so I will. I will have nothing to do with it. And I guess I shall let Frank go, though I tell you, Elizabeth, I hate to go back on a fellow who has done so much for me. (Enter Latane, L.) Latane — Dadd} r , you seem worried. Has anything gone wrong at the office? Mrs. G. — No, Latane. I have been telling him about Mr. Sear's proposals, and naturally it makes him sad. We have been expecting this and your father had hoped you would not refuse him. You'll be glad to learn that Mr. Sears is going to take charge of your father's business and put it into a big trust, giving us $5,000,000 of stock and your father the presidency of the big corporation. Already $10,- 000,000 have been subscribed, and — 35 Mr. G. — Frank's inventions — - Mrs. G. — Mr. Sears says are not at all important. Mr. G. — The entire subscription is based on — Mrs. C. — Mr. Sears' ability in such matters. Ah, my dear, you will be happy with such a husband. Few girls can be as proud as you ought to be. Latane — You say daddy is rich. What made his company worth so much more in a single day? Mr. G — We have these new inventions, and — Mrs. G. — Mr. Sears says a trust can be formed. But you need not bother your dear little head with these matters. Your husband will look after them for you. Latane — (Seriously, as she strokes Mr. C.'s hair.) Daddy, I don't want to marry and leave you. I've been so happy all my life. We used to be together in the office, and I have watched our little company grow up to a big one. I love it, and it seems sacri- lege to turn it over to strangers' hands. Let's keep it, you, and me, and Frank. (Exit Mr. C, L., dry- ing eyes.) Mrs. G. — And be paupers always. You see your father has too much sense to listen to any such ar- gument, (Playing up.) Come, my dear. When you are mistress of the Sears' millions, you will laugh at the little phosphate company. You know you want to be the richest woman in the city. Latane — Not at the price of happiness. I do not love and trust Mr. Sears. He lacks those qualities that appeal to me, and without which he could never command my best love. It is my faith that every girl should plant her affections in something solid so they will grow better and stronger under the com- mon needs of everyday life. I tell you once for all, measured by this high standard, Mr. Sears is not the man I could love, as I must love my husband, be he pauper or prince. Mrs. G.—O, that is the way all girls feel. The deepest, and only true love, comes after marriage. Take my word for that, dear. Latane it would break your old father's heart if you refuse Mr. Sears. His happiness is in your hands. Now, will you see him ruined, or will you show your love and make him happy. This trust has gone too far for anything to save your father, if you do not marry this man. 36 I speak plainly, that you may know where you stand. (Enter Mrs. C., L.) Mr. G. — I have just had a message that Mr. Sears is on his way down here. Says he wants to see me, but I fancy he wants to see someone else, eh, La- tane? (Exit, L.) Mrs. G. — The dear fellow. Now, my dear, you will have another opportunity to make us all happy. Stop and think how much depends on your answer. And don't forget that if you refuse him, your father is a penniless man. I hear a carriage at the door now. I shall leave you alone. It will be so much nicer. (Exit, L.) Latane — (Seated in C. During these lines or- chestra, or piano, play softly DEARIE.) This is when a girl needs a mother. One whose heart is warm and tender and true. Blood of her blood. She says Daddy wants me to marry this man, and that if I do not he will be penniless. How can I marry him when all I am belongs to another who has merited my love and confidence? Indeed, I have come to a place where the way does not seem quite plain. I love my father and Frank so tenderly and truly, that for me to fail either is more than I dare contemplate. And yet — I must forsake the one, and cleave to the other. Mother in Heaven, which shall it be? Show me the way and I will follow . . . I seem to hear you say "Frank." And so it shall be. (Rises and goes to desk.) Mr. Sears shall have his answer. (Writes, reading aloud.) "I love another. If ever you truly loved, you'll under- stand, Latane." I will leave that here, where he will find it. When he reads it he will pity, rather than blame me. It will not hurt him, for he does not love that way. (Brightening.) And now, when Frank has won his place in the world, and asks me to be his wife, O, happy thought. (Door opens, R., and Frank enters. Latane stands with back turned, short space.) Frank — Am I not welcome, Latane? Latane — (Whirling round and extending both hands.) Yes, a thousand times, Frank? I was just thinking of you. Frank — I can never deserve that nice compliment, but each day brings me closer to it. But you seem 37 sad. Has someone mussed up your dollhouse ? Come tell me all about it. Latane — Don't speak that way, Frank. I cannot tell you what I would like to. (Enter Mrs. C., ex- pecting to see Mr.* Sears. When she sees Frank, changes her expression.) Mrs. G. — I knew you would want to be first to congratulate her. (Frank starts, but quickly re- covers.) Latane, Mr. Sears is waiting in the parlor. How dare you keep him waiting? Latane — I did not know he had come. I will go to him. Mrs. G. — Mr. Efforton will excuse you, I know. (Exit, L.) Frank — Do not let me stand between you and happiness, Latane. I do not wish to do that. Latane — O, Frank, tell me what to do. Frank — I'm afraid I'd be a partial counsellor, but as I always try to do what you ask me, I will say to you as I would to all girls who want to be happy : Keep your heart right, and follow it wherever it leads you. Latane — I will. (Exit, L.) Frank — If it were not for my confidence in that girl, I would be miserable. (Enter Mr. C, L.) I beg your pardon for calling at this hour, Mr. Cash- ton, but I have gone into this trust proposition very fully, and cannot see anything but failure for you. I felt that it was my duty to come and beg you again not to go further until you can see the outcome of it. Mr. C— Frank, Frank, Frank— Frank — I know you cannot believe the truth. I come to tell you the thing is a fake, pure and simple. Already some of the subscriptions are being with- drawn. You are on dangerous ground. Believe me. There is time left for you to save yourself. I in- serted in the articles of agreement, which you asked me to draft, certain clauses which make your ac- ceptance contingent on a matter entirely in my con- trol. Mr. C. — (Frank, I have always found you safe and sane, and I have great confidence in your ability. But in this instance I disagree with you. Frank — On what grounds? 38 Mr. (j. — You do not seemi to grasp the full mean- ing of this great opportunity. Frank— I hope you are right, but I fear the re- sults. This telegram is from the Upland Phosphate Co., the biggest in the country, offering me the presi- dency of that company, and 5,000 shares of their treasury stock if I will join them with my inven- tions. Now I mention this only to show you that we can succeed with our company just as it is. It would please me very much to decline this splendid offer and stay with you. Won't you let me? Mr. C— You go ahead and accept that offer. I'm not afraid to stick to the trust, Frank— -Unless you accept my offer and withdraw from this trust before midnight tonight, you will be a penniless man. Mr. o not be offended because you are caught in his rooms at midnight when you thought the house was asleep. Prince — Ah-h-h. I see. Zis Carpenter chump iss some slicks. A lire — Robprt Woolsev. these insults shall be choked back down your throat. I am at your mercy now, for I am alone. You would not dare treat me this wav if Howard were *n this house. (Tries to open door and finds it locked.) What does this miean? Prince — Tt mpnn? dot T fret dot kees. Alive— It doesn't matter much, now, since Howard 31 doesnft care; but not until these lips are cold shall 'they be polluted by yours. The time will come when truth shall come into its own, and if that time finds me alive, it shall also find me unspotted and worthy. You dare not touch me. (Tap on door, L.) Robert — (Opens door quickly and admits Mr. C.) Mr. C. — (Sees Alice.) What are you doing here? (To Prince.) And you? Explain this, Robert. • Robert — Why, ah, ah, er, Mr. Carpenter, I'm very sorry it has occurred. Mr. C. — What has occurred ? Robert — Why finding this woman in your son's rooms at midnight after she has married the Prince. Prince — Yez. I wish you would make her go horn mit me. Alice — Oh ! Mr. Carpenter, they lie. Protect me. I was driven from my father's house because I loved your son. I'm innocent of any wirong. Robert — She is here, isn't she? Prince — I did not bring her. She slipped out of bed and came. Alice-&ve&k, MR. CARPENTER. Choke their lying throats, and if I do not vindicate myself I will be your bond slave forever. Mr. C. — Alice, the proof is against you. Alice— (Pleadingly.) MR. CARPENTER! Mr. C. — I will send you wherever you wish to go if you desire me to, provided you will make me a solemn promise. Alice — Thank you. I will promise. Give me safe conduct to Howard's ambulance, which is waiting at the front door. Robert — Isn't it strange that this ambulance is waiting at your front door? Mr. C- — Stop, Robert. I need no further proof. Howard has deceived me. Alice, if you give your promise that you will never attempt to see my son again, or if he tries to see you, refuse him, I will protect you from any and all other unfavorable cir- cumstances, for I am sure this vagabond Prince will bring you to want. Alice — I am in the hands of fiends and it is your duty to defend me, Mr. Carpenter. If you cannot read my innocence in my eyes, and choose to be mis- lead by these monsters, who would destroy the honor 32 I 'have kept so far above reproach in order better to merit the love of your son, I can but accept the shame and disgrace. Leave me with them, or join them in my destruction, for there is no power m heaven or earth great enough to exact my promise that your son shall not know from my lips that l love him. Prince— Are you ready to go home mit me i Mr c —If she IS your wife, and if she is guilty of improper love for my son, she is not yet mean enough to be subject to your orders. GO I jExit Prince, L.) Robert, send that ambulance back to the hospital and order my car for immediate service. (Exit Robert, L.) Alice— Mr. Carpenter, you are noble to defend me in this manner. - Hf Vt c.—l cannot quite believe you are all oaci, Alice, so I am merely giving you the benefit of the doubt. Your father tried to humiliate me, but lm going to save him until I can get Howard back to New York and learn the truth. If you are guilty, both of you shall fall together. Alice— And if we are innocent— will you promise that we shall both RISE together? H T% C.—M high as my love and wealth can raise y ° Alice— I ask no more. (Enter Robert, L.) Robert— -The car is waiting. Do you wish me to go with her. & j/ r# c .—She is going to a house of correction, Robert, but her escort shall be a gentleman. (Going with Alice, L.) I will see you when I return. (Exit with Alice, L.) Robert— And so another fine scheme goes up in smoke ! It's a pretty hard matter to find mud thick enough to hide entirely a virtuous heart. But if you think I'm goincd effect.) ACT IV. SCENE 1 — Operating room, Chattanooga Hos- pital; thirty-six hours later. STAGE SETTING— Any plain white room will do. Two operating tables. (Your town physicians will gladly lend these, or if not, use two ordinary cots, with legs pieced out so as to raise about three feet. Cover cot with white sheets.) Small table for clean white porcelain pan for sterilizing instruments. Place Howard on front table in center of stage, feet to L., and cover with sheet. Absorbent cotton on right side of throat, colored red. Powder his face to show loss of blood. He should be unconscious. Nurse standing by table of instruments. Place other table immediately behind Howard, foot to right, and overlapping first table about three feet. Dr. Bassett sitting by Howard in close atten- tion. (If your town physicians will take these parts, you will find it a great advantage. If this cannot be done, ask their assistance in rehearsal. The scene is 43 most extraordinary and should be well rendered. Its effect is good.) MAKE-UP — Use dignified dress as much as pos- sible. If all the doctors are in Prince Alberts, the effect is fine, but if only a few of these coats are available, give them to Mr. Carpenter and Dr. May- ben. Dr. Bassett — (Holding pulse.) Be careful, nurse, to have everything in perfect order. They will be here in a short time. Nurse — I think everything is ready. (Enter Dr. Speight.) Dr. Bassett — Good-morn»ng, Dr. Speight. Dr. Speight — How is the patient by now? Dr. Bassett — He is losing very fast, but holds on miraculously. Dr. Speight — (Advances to table.) Is he mortal- ly wounded? Dr. Bassett — I fear he is. When he was brought in from the mountains there was scarcely a drop of blood in his body. It would have been easy to save him if we could have attended him more promptly. His wound is not serious bevond the bleeding. Dr. Speight— -Too bad ! Too bad ! Who is lie, anyway? He must be somebody of note, judging from the way the wires are being burnt up with dis- patches. Dr. Bassett — From papers found on his person and information given by his old negro valet, we take him to be Howard Carpenter of New York. Dr. Speight — Great Scott! How strange this is? Dr. Bassett — Yes, it is not often that we have so wealthy a patient in this hospital. We understand that he is worth about $100,000,000. Dr. Speight — If that is really Howard Carpenter you have there, you have named the smallest part of his real worth. He is the bov founder of the great- est hospital in the great city of New York and the best friend the poor and down-trodden have ever known. Dr. Bassett — Is that so ? I might have known. I have been so busy trying to s