u 635 9 96 py 1 ..!^^ Cor. {Throws hook down.) If it hurts you so I'll put the book in the stove. I'd rather never see one than have you continually yowing and find'ng fault. Col. It is you who cotitinually finds fault. Grown too vain to be called my child. Even the name I gave you is hateful. Accuse me with being cross— with indifference, and not caring for you. Why should I not care for you and feel an interest in your welfare? You are my all in the world to love ; {kisses her, which she coaly permits.) Corene. \ou are still my child! If I am cross I do not wish to be. Cor. {Gets up.) You are, all the same; I don't see how you could be much worse I CoL. You will some day realize that I could have been worse, tsuppose, instead of indulging your playful fancies, 1 should proscribe your companionship ; say this one shall be your associate, and that one shall not; chide each care- less act and correct for each idle word. Cor. It would be better tor me if you did, and I would think more of you for it. Col. Instead of bending kindly to your wishes, I should assume a rigid censorship over your every move or desire; Aye! over your very thoughts. Like the cruel parent in the book you have just read, deny your right to think for your- self; ciicumscnbe your love; rob you of self-control, and suitject you to a chastening surveillance; say this man you shall renounce, that you shall revere, whether he pleases you or not, and perhaps force a union with some ill-gam suitor. Cor. If the suitor had money, I'd consider you did but a parent's duty. Inexperienced school girls are not competent to choose a safe destiny, any way. Col. Suppose on the one side stood a young man of re- finement, intellect, and a wealth of manly qualities— one whom you loved! while on the other stood some weasen soul without a single grace or complement, save a show of involuntary gold and a miser's greed for more— one whose coarse, dull manner you could scarce endure. Should you prove contumacious, seize you, and witli cold determination, send vou to some dingy cloister to be subdued to a relentless purpose by the horrors of walled imprisonment. Aye! to further carry the plot on some feigned crime, drive the ob- ject of your love to the gallows. Hold you in such dread discipline that sheer cruelty brings you to humiliating sub- jection! Yes, Corene, you would then realize the difference between what you now imagine is severity, and the real thing. C9) Cor. Indeed! How romantic! Why not write a book with Philip Samson for the villainous suitor of miserd fame, Corene Liavier as the empaled victim of dingy walls, and gentleman- Wild tor the hangman's toy. I would rel- ish some such experience as a change! I haye no doubt Mr. Samson would echo the relish, while ge7itleman- Wild would enjoy relief from the embarrassments of the fickle world. It would at least be an improvement on your monotonous indifference. Col. You may think so at an apparent safe distance, but should such an experience ever come home to you Cor. If you would suit your action to your vainly ex- pressed interest in my wellfare. (Yawns.) O, well, let's sus- pend the charms ! You make me sick as well as tired. (At table seats, carlessly leaf book.) Did you say Mr. Gray would be back? Col. Yes; he and Loretto will both return this even- ing. I did not learn whether Mr. Wild Cor. Never mind about Mr, Wild! 1 thought you was going to send the driver around with the phaeton to take me a ride— well, no, 1 didn't think you was ; but I remember you promised to. Col. The horses have been in waiting; but you have been out. Cor. Of course, lay it on to me! Haven't I been here lis- t ening to your fault-finding long enough to have ridden across a county and back. (Enter Ganz Schoenheit, Z. u. e. Stops in en- trance. Puts hand under coat tail. Looks at Corene. Corene to Ganz.) Well, what are you standing there for ? Where's the buggy ? (Ganz comes I. c.) Ganz. (To Corene.) Veil, I told you when you keep quiet long enough. Dem buggy vash in der road by dem bosses, when vou vash ready. Col. You see, Corene, to wish is to realize. I hope a brief ride may cheer you up. Cor. (Looks viciously at Colonel.) What the mischief are you driving at now ? I think its you who needs to be cheered, or something to drum a little civility into you (commanding to Gjlnz.) Ganz! just leave the cart in the <10) road till the tires rot, if you want to. Who told you to hitch up, anyway ? 1 don't want to ride,now. {Goes to otto- man and sinks languidly on it.) I'd rather take a sleep, if you'll just keep out so I can ! {lies on ottoman). Ganz. {Comes down I. aside.) Himmels! dot shildren! Col. Corene, I guess you have been worried quite enough. We will step out and give you a chance to take your sleep, and reflect on the cruelty of a cross old father. Cor. (Raises up, and with contemptuous gesture.) For pity's sake, do {lays). Curtain. ACT II. Scene l. — Room in Col. Lamei''s Residence. Plain table I. c. Chairs back of table. Door centre and one up r. It is same room as first, except more sparcely and more plainly fur- nished. Everything of a dingy appearance, and weird, at will. After curtain rises Loeetto enters room up r. Saunters carelessly down stage to I. c. Lor. Ah, hem! It's awfully awful to love a feller when you don't want to, and can't help ii; and when it don't do no good, either. If only Elden was rich, and as good looking as smart, and as everything else as he is, I'd trot him over to the parson's. {Sigh.) Somehow I feel a queer ticlfle about my palpitation every time he comes near me. I've a cruel mind to shut my eyes and let hirn ask me the very first time I see him. What if he should? Goodness! Good- ness! I do believe I'd wilt. Wouldn't it be a juke on the very elegant satin-lined Corene! {Enter ELDENr.) Goodness! goodness! there's that tickle. {Stepping back and talking aside.) Eld. Ah ! Loretto; you seem to be mistress here! Lor. Oh! Let me catch breath! {Hand to side. Mook affection. Eld. What's the worry ment? Lor. I — I — I'm plum done up; you took me so when I wasn't looking for it. Eld. I am sorry if I caused any serious fright— my bonnie cheat. Lor. Look to me, Elden ! {faces Elden, sharply.) Is that (11) narae you call me a new ridicule, or only one of your class- ical bv-name.sV Eld. Did you ever know me to ridicule? Certainly not one I so highly esteem as I do Miss McFa. Lor. (Reprovinuly.) I thought I told you net to be so familiar. My name's plain Loretto, and no Miss about it. Eld, Then it was my tnisVdke. Very well ! But you can't hinder if I miss you when you're not present. {Chang- ing subject.) I— I— suppose Corene is buried in the classics? Lor. Noh ! We got through, and she's gone out to find a bouquet. When I'm around you bet there's too much old Nick for classics {shaking her head roguishly). Eld. Indeed, I almost envy you the good times with Corene— she's a dear, sweet girl, isn't she? Lor. Well— yes I {A vein of jealousy.) She's better look- ing than Loretto! Fine wear makes any one look dear and sweet. {Picking at dress, as though she was a bit jealous.) Eld. Tut, tut! I only meant to compliment her for your benefit. Lor. a second-hand compliment. {Sarcastic courtesy.) Eld. I see plainly what's in your mind. To start with, you imagine — no matter what. Loretto ! all there is ot Elden Wild — my only complement— is whatever ability there is in me, whatever manhood or honorable purpose. Between Miss Lavier and the commoner lies a mountain of one, which I could nos hope to scale. {Discouraginqly.) Lor. Yes, but wouldn't you like to? {Puts finger to mouth and looks askance out of corner of one eye.) Eld. The recess of conscience may hide a secret will. Yet wisdom warns us to shun the false elysium, where the fruits we pluck at be airy forms that recede at our advances, {Takes Loretto's hand, and in a more satisfied tone.) How- ever, I confess it would afford me great pleasure to share your pass-times with Corene. Lor. If she knew you was here, I expect she'd be m at a hop. {Letting go Elden and turning up.) If you'll go with me I'll show you where she's treed. Come right along. {Getting to c. d.) Eld. I will join you presently. {Turns dovm.) Lor. O. K. But you mustn't forget it. I'll tell Corene, and 1 know she'll be on her tips to see vou. Bill Gray is out there; so you see there will be even numbers. Now (12) don't fool us. We'll see who ean find the nicest roses for the nicest feller. (Eaxit Lorretto, with rustic bow c. d.) Eld (solus). I half way suspect Loretto thinks something of me. True, she is not so handsome as Corene, and her manner is somewhat out of time; besides, like Elden Wild, she inherits the sin of being poor. Yet, one might go far and do worse. As for Corene, what grounds have I for hope? The mo] e I think of her, the higher rises that jetted cliff. I believe she loves me; and yet my doubts are clothed with fears that give them shapeiy realities. O, Corene! That we had never met! Or, that our first had been the last! Every thought of her but adds a faggot to the flame that consumes me. (Enter Ganz. C. d. Stops, and with hands undercoat-tail.) Ganz. Ganz Schoenheit ist my nahme; unt I werk fon der sthal by dem banker! Was hatten sie! (Pause.) Ver- stehe sie Deutsche? (Coming c.) Eld. My friend ; does it grow on trees, or in the ground ? Ganz. (Aside.) Er verstehe mich necht. (Aloud.) Veil, younk man (tapping palm of left hand with right index Jinger); I told you what I do! (Takes Elden aside.) I choke em! (Loud in Elden' s ear ; tip-toeing.) Eld. (Aside.) TH accost in English. (Aloud,) Well, Mr. Goose.* Ganz. You think I was a geese? (Coming down and talking back over his shoulder.) Nine! 1 beest Deutsche 1 (Goes to Elden, and again tappinghand with Jinger.) Younk man, you don't fool Ganz Schoenheit! You been liken dot gal by der banker— Corene! (Sideling and looking at Elden knowingly sideways.) Eld. I confess you know something, or guess well. But a banker would scarcely permit his daughter to return the regards of a poor fellow like me. Ganz. (Goes quickly to Elden.) Was ? Don't marry mit- out der monish ! I told you what I do. (Takes E. aside.) I choke er! Eld. I should certainly relish that process, myself. Ganz. (Takes Elden aside, confidential.) Say, now; I told you some more! I gif you my sister; unt she hat so grosgelt! ein, zwei— more ash fifty dollars. (Going r.) I [*The word ganz means goose.] (13) told Katrina dot same. {Again goes to Elden.) Unt she hat one leetle kinder, so olt. {Holding hand 2 feet up.) Eld. Then your sister is a rosy widow? Ganz. Avidder? {Comes down offended.) Nine! Kat- rina not been married! No! {"Nine" and "no" spoken long and with force, looking back over shoulder.) Dot kinder ist one — {shaking hands, trying to think) ah— ya — ya— vat you call im ? {Getting to c. d.) I told you when I come by der slaughter bouse where Katrina been workin. {Exit d.) Eld. {Solus.) I wonder if the stall master is an index to the master of the house? If so, from whom does the fair Corene inherit? {Comes down center.) This is the second attempt to brave a meeting with her father; but every time some intervention favors and I escape. How 1 dread it; yet why should I? He can but order me out — and I can go! The word "fail" should never be written with a willing hand. The ordeal must come; and Elden Wild must meet it. Ah! I have it! I promised Loretto I would join them in the garden. I will do so, and the fair Corene shall in her own way provide an introduction! {Exit Elden c. d.) {Enter Colonel Lavier. R. up.) Col. If it wasn't for the mothers, we might command a share of obedience from our children ! {Seats at table and buries face m hands a moment; then rises, striking fist on table.) Shucks! It all comes from sending her to that boarding school! Ever since her return it's been nothing hut" Elden Wild! Elden Wild!" till the very name rings in my ear a coutmual din worse than the jar of a cracked gong! {Paces to and fro, in vexed agitation,) Curse the young vagabond ! I have said it, and Corene shall accept Fhil. Samson! True, he's her senior; so much the better. His ripe experience will hold in balance her mazy will! Besides, he has the wherewith! {Enter Corene, up c.) Corene, you seem cheerful. I am pleased to see you so. It betokens resiguatmn to the decrees of promise! Cor. Why should I not be cheerful? Everything con- spires to that end. Loretto is going to stay awhile, and I anticipate a perfectly splendid time. Col. "A perfectly splendid time!" Did I lavish all my hard-earned stores to have you learn no more refined ex- pressions ? Corene, I must forbid your further companion- (14) sljip Witt tlrese witless rollcs, wliose daily lex'con is made of gigple and billy-goat mimics. (Corene laaghing.) Blow tiie.' What in sainis are you cackling about now ? ('or. (LaufJis.) Why, bless my soulJ {Laughs.) It's ♦enough to make a saint cry a laughing to hear you talk. {Laughs.) Blow me' and billy goat mimics, with a rollick- ing cackled {Laiasihs.} T must forbid your further compan- ionship with Shony and old iially Samp! (Laughs.) Did I iavisk all my hard-earned grammar to have you learn no more refined expressions? Col. (Aside^ The aggravating vixen! (Aloud.) You should cultivate the finer qualities in associations, and not t&eir coarser vulgarisms. Cor. How serious you talk! {Mock amaze.) I was going to tell you that Elden Wild Col. {Stops ears mid walks impetuously.) Elden Wild! Is that name to be eternally harped in my ear? {With force.) Suppress it, at once! Banish it to everlasting forgetful- ness! Never breathe that hateful sound in my presence again! {Assumes a Virions deter niination.) Corene! Time was when you deemed me severe! But, as storms long gathering break with fiercer fury, so with my pented temper. I at last appreciate a parent's duty. The name of that houseless, stripping Jay must cease to corrode on your lips! The irony and light Jest concerning Mr. Samson must at once give place to words of fitting honor to him whom I have nominated to claim you as his own. Cor. {Aside.) If wishing to show contrast between what he has been and what he might be, father plays it well. {Aloud, very respectfully.) Father, it is doubtless best I snould consider your wishes supreme; and I shall strivb to do so. But in this tragic bout, you assume that which you surely do not mean. {Aside ) Two can play at ruse. {Aloud, with mirthful sarcasm.) Why, to think of that crotchet old bellicose, infects with malaria! His breath smells like a sick chamber! His voice rattles like a corn shelter! His head is for all the world like a scorched cocoa- nut; and he walks like a comic manakin propelled by gal- vanism! There's such a commodity as too-too; and that old animated antiquation is one of them. {Exit Corene c. d., with a flounce.) Col. {Looks after and shakes finger.) There she goes to seek encouragement from a doting mother; and then renew (15) her erammon coterie f AIi f Ton spoiTed sci'on f {Menadngl'ff:^ I'll find a way to unwarp your false training! Corene; ray child! I mean your own good. Did I care lesa for you I would be more indifferent! {Enter Senior Gray. L ) Senior Gray, I am glad to see you. Be seated, please. {As- su7ning compomre and offer hiiP chair from behind table). Gray. Xo. (Lifts hat and shove» H on buck of head} ^ cackalate ii's no use to set. How's the old lady? AncJ how's Cory s»insp coinin' from the siuoinarv ? Col. O— well !— I guess everything's all right. Sen. G. {^U» or leans on earned' of table.) 1 suppose she learned lo be putty smart. My Will wanted to go— chat is —he did when she was tharl {With insin lating zoivJi.) But he's not hankerin arter goin any more! Will's putty peart. MS it is, and don't need any great sight of lurnen. He eau count; and that's better'n wastin tirae on sich things ez don't bring in anything. Will's a boy as'll get thiough. ( With air of selfgatisfaetion.) Col. William isn't slow, by any cseans. We are always glad to have him with us. Sen. G. Yas; and Will likes to be at your house. Ef I'm any j^dge, he likes my old friend Lavier putty well I (In. >fi.nuating tvink. The7i ehanges subject.) Say, Lave., what is tliar to the story about that Wild dewd, I hear em talking of? Will don't take much stock in him ! Col. Oh! he's a rather well-disposed young man. But lie is too low in the financial balance to be in the way very much. Sen. G. There ought to be a way to shet vp these impe- dent pups as have nothing, and who strut about among decent folks as tlu>uo'h they hed pockets fu'l. (Enter Ganz 2 r. e.) Col. Well, have you attended to the horses? Ganz. Yah! Mem lierr; ich habt e^hon! Col. Did you hook them yet? Ganz. (Comes down, aside.) Hook dem bosses? (Jo Col., looking back over bjioulder.) Nine! (Aside.) I stheal der lager beer ton der zeller, und I drink 'im myself; but I don't hook no bosses! (Aloud.) No! Col. Ganz, I am in no humor for your humor. Go! Ganz. lishgone! (At^ i.e.) Sen. G. Say, Detchman ! (16) Ganz. [Turns, and with hands under coat-tail.) Ganz Schoenheit ist mein nahme! Sen. G. {To Col. L.) Lave, I wonder if old Detch haint got somethin? Say, Detchy; liow'r you fixed. Ganz. {Comes doion aside.) Fixed! Himmels! every time dot teller come by der bank, "How you vixed!" {Aloud.) Why don't you brought some vixed mit you sometimes? Dot's the vay I been vixe*'., oil man, I told you. {Going qui(M>! to Qray and shakinq flask, tauntingly. Gray tries to get it. Ganz avoids and goes r.) Nine! I drink ira my- selt ; uiit if he been gate I gif you some. {Brinks— grimace.) Vail! Necht gate! Well, I drink him some more. {Drinks. Hands to Co'onel, who drinks and hands to Gray. Gam, angry, comes down.) Himmels! I ish mat! I told you what I do! 1 choke him! {Seizes Gray and procures flask.) Col. Come, Ganz, snap them blacks for me. Go, at once! GainZ O. I schnap 'era! {Exit Ganz 2 r. e.) Sen. G. 1 allers hev fun with thai 'ar Detchman. {Putting leg ovtr one corner of table.) Ez I was about to say. Lave. Col. {Aside.) Lave! I suppose I must put up with this familiarity ! Sen. G. 1 cum to ax a favor of you. Col. {Seats at table.) With pleasure my friend. Sen. G. Ole Miss Julip's owin a month's rent, cumin due nex Sunday. I want a receipt to tender her so's she wont have no excuse not to pay. I allers do bizness in a bizness style. ( With a vain movement of the head.) Ez I aint much at mak'n em out, I want you to. (Colonel takes pen and icrites.) Don't put in any extras so's she'l have a holt. It can't come due on Sunday, and somebody's got to lose a day. Make it cum due Saturday. It may as well cum out on her as me. Col. Certainly. I have drawn it in full to Saturday. {Offeispen.) , s.. Sen. G. You sign' it/ I aint no writer. Xeither's none of my family. The old Oman could read and cipher a little; but she's spun, and knit, and sowed so much that she's got all out of the way of it. Will got so's he could read in the fust render putty well by spellin the longest words {talks as though he thought it smart); but one day he throwed down the book and swore it was too much trouble. "What's the use," says he, "when you can earn the money to hire it done easier than you can learn to do it." Will's a great boy to be (17) phylosophizen. That McFa gal does our writen to our con- nections, and reads the letters when we get em. Col. It is very kind in her. Sen. G. O she likes it and don't charge nothin. I tell you, them as has will find lots o' friends to help em in what they lack. But we don't ax her to do it tor nothin. Last 'New Year's day, the old oman sent her mother a hull heap- in pan of hominy! Then mv Will goes places with her — and you know that's payin kindness for kindness. But» mind; Will don't think anything of her {apoloqetic); he just does it for accommodation. Loret and Will have a heap of fun. The old oman and me have it up and down about Will and Loret. She thinks he and her a even match ; but I think she'd make a better deal fer that ar dewd. They haint neither of them got nothing, and it wouldn't be spilin two families. I tell Will to aim his gun higher. (Colonel walks.) Well, I cackalate as how you may have bizness to do. Much obleeged for your favor. {Ex',t I.) Col. (soliis.) I do hope I'm through with favor seekers for a time. * * First impressions are impulses which dictate the safest actuations. If, instead of sending Corene to that boarding school, I had listened to tirst inclination and sent her to the convent— Ah! I'm to be victimized by some charity fiend next. I'll inform her that the board of charities convene over the way. (Sits hastily at table, and arranges papers as though extremely engaged.) {Enter Mrs. Vidette, I. Colonel gets up and appears overly pleased.) Ah! I am surprised and surely deliglited to see it is you. I —I feared another attacTi of the Grays. I am truly glad to see you. (Rubs hands with delight and gives her chair I. of table. He seats r. h. corner up at table.) Mrs. V, Yes, Yes! As I was declining in my hammock on the miaza I saw your daughter in the midst of a hillerous sportation with Loretto and two boys. One was William Gray and the other was— alack, that I should say it— Elden Wild ? {Simpers and waives head mournfully.) Col. Elden Wild ? {Agitated surprise.) Mrs. V. It surely was! I knew of your diversion for the young man, and felt it recumbent on me to warn you of his near reproach to your daughter. Col. I thank vou for the interest you manifest. Corene gives her mother a vast deal of worry, since returning from school. (18) Mrs. V. These dawgkters becorae quite refractory in the interim of paternal vigilance^ and are capable of compass- ing tlie fortitude of the most enduring spirits, when once enameled in theaaiaaing meshes of realistic love,' Colonel, I've experienced an iltcing ot the dereaving predicament, myself. I wili administer your daughter a friendly instiga- tion on her evil disposings. These things do a powerful sight of good. {Looking over spectacles, str a i(fht at Colonkl and emphmizinq the ''paw") Col. We have determined to pair Corene with Philip tjamsbn. Mrs, V. {Aside, in disafpointment.) Oh! Here's a releva* tionj I must — {Changes suddenly.) A capital match! A capital match! Col. It is true, he is dull, and lacks intellectual finish Mrs. V. {Aside) Hear the man! I will note these slan- ders and breathe them in Philip's ear. {Aloud.) Yes, but Philip is a gentleman of superior means. Col. Exactly; and before we had sealed the pledge. Corene seemed to overlook all else; but now she hisses vainest epithets, and puts in her time learning the art of a most galling disrespect. Mrs. V. (Sympathetic.) The onappreciative girl! I will see your daughter at Sabbath class, and apostrophise on her vfAy-ward-ness. (Rises and looks straight at Colonel.) Colonel, these things do npowerfal sight of good. Col. Experience teaches me that the arbitrary rod is the only cure for tilial disobedience. {Enter Ganz 2 r. e. Goes eartiestly to Colonel.) Ganz. I told you what I do! (Takes Colonel aside I.; in his ear, forcibly.) I choke em ! {Comes down I., crossing to c, passing near Mrs. V., wJio is down L Hands under coat-tail, looks fiercely wise.) Mrs. V. (Throws up hands in disgust.) Whew! Colonel! Some one's been drinking! (Turns I., shaking head.) It breaks on ray olfactttry narves like the aroma of a toperian rendesvoouz. Ganz. {Down r. Looks fui tive over left shoulder at Mrs. V.) She wants to get some vixed, like dot Gray filler. (Turns r. and drinks gwck.) Col. (Cornea c; confused apology.) I— I— beg pardon, Mrs. Vidette (sudden thought)— di. fellow came to ask chari- ties (19) Mrs. V. And of coarse yoii responded to the poor man 's needs. Col. {With inwlnntart/ tnirth.) Well, I imagine we did in this instance. You see he was so far in his cups he fell asleep and we robbed liim (with a digJH tragic gesture ; Mrs. Y. recoils zaitJi horrififd gurprifte) of a bottle of vile liquor. (Ganz eyeing Colonel toith interest.) Mrs. V. (Relitved.) O, law I Ganz. (Doivn. Aside) Der tivilE I don't like dot lyin business I Col. And Ganz (indicating to Ganz) broke the bottle. Ganz. (Hastily takes flank part tcay from side pocket, un- observed, to see if it i» broken. Then p7tt» it back, whistles astonishment.) Himraels! Dos ist ein grosser lyen! Col. (Ironical.) Ganz couldn't help it, of course — break- ing the bottle, I mean. Mrs. V. (Down I. Aside, with slow earnestness.) If it had only been the poor man's neck! {prone inced pooei). Ganz, {Aside, down, r.) Der zwi tivilsl (Whistles stir- prise.) Dos niachen so gross lyen! Istheal! I do all der mean dricks; unt I schvear mit der court I don't bought no viskey, when I was ein.zwi — more ash a gouple times ver kaufen! But I don't lie like dot! (Mrs. V. sidles slightly toward c. Observing Ganz in astonishment and half friL/ht. Ganz turns totvard her.) Say, olt gal! You been one of der dem temperance, eh? (Slight left-hand gesture.) Y''ou don't like dot schmeil, eh? (Advancing a step ti>ward her, with, right-hand gesture.) Veil, you sthick em in your schmellerl (Turns down r., contemjdiions.) 1 told you dot, now. {Comes quick down r., iinth threatening gesture. Aside.) I told you what I do. (Starts toward Mrs. V. Sfie goes he. Col. intercepts Ganz and taking hold of him.) Yell, I choke er! Mrs. Y. O, Colonel! Col. (Sharply.) Ganz! Stop this wanton levity ! (Ganz crouches down r.) Did you snap them blacks, as I directed? ( With authoritative tone.) Ganz. (Sullen impertinence.) Nine! I told you dem hosses wouldn't drink ill C(iL. I said nothing about drinking. Ganz. ( With suppressed anger and tone of dispute) Der tivil! Didn't you told me about der schnaps? Ya! Unt ven I put dot schnaps to dem boss, he ust pull up dose nose like von leetle stheer ven he schmeil on der grounl. (Mrs. (20) V. sho^jked. Ganz turns down composed, aside.) 0, veil, I drink em myselef ! (Drinks, holding coat collar up as a screen from Col ) Col. {Takes Gathz aside. Pointed. Mns. Y. I., shocked.) Ganz, I want you to hitca the blacks to the phaeton. Do you understand thatf Gan/.. Ya! Ich verstehesie! Col. (Modified.) There is michief up, and I want you to hold yourself ready for a trip. Ganz. (Aside) Derdlvil! (Aloud.) Comes dot troubles rnit der kinder. 1 told you vhat I do— (takes Col. up, aside) I choke em! Col. T simply want you to do as I say ; and no more foolishness. (Commanding tone.) Ganz. Ya ! (Exit Ganz r. 2 e ) Col. Sits at table r end, to Mrs. V.) We have decided to send Corene to the convent; this explains these orders to Ganz. Mrs. v. (Seating I.) A capital plan! A capital plan 1 Col. Corene is fond of society. The reverend tread of the abbess; the dole of solemn tedeums; and a lone com- panionship with cloister grates, will soon bring her to a sense of duty. A few years, if necessary, and she will be glad to esCfipe even to the embrace of rough, uncouth, but ■ rich old Samp. Mrs. V. (Aside, disapprovingly.) Oh! such uncompli- mentary delusions. Birds of message shall warble in Phil- lip's ear, the.■^e diatribical utterauces.' (Aloud.) If the serious rites of the monasteery don't play upon her sen- sibilities and invert the child to their irreverent heresees. CoL. That danger has been guarded against. I have ar- ranged for nominal or option conflnement. and for the ad- mission of such companions as I may direct. Ganz will be her daily escort. Brother Bonard will give her spiritual council (rising); and you, Mrs. Vidette, must visit her also. Mrs, V. (Rises, aside, thouqhtfid, pleased.) Brother Bonard! a hem! (to CoL ) a capital plan! a capital plan! I shall bewail myself of the blessed chance to diffuse counter inspiration over her pliable understanding. (L., very earnest.) Colonel, this will do a poz^erful sight of good. (Exit I.) Col. (c.) How kind, for one who is unconcerned, to thus warn a father. (Looking r.) I wonder if that fellow will (21) ever get the horses ready? {C, meditatioely .) This is a deperate resort. But serious eases require desperate reme- dies. ( Goes tip a step or so, with sudden fury. ) The infer- ual saap-dallion. (C, more moderate.) I grow impatient. {Enter GAiiz. Stops. Inside r-^ e.) Ganz. Mein herr! Ich habt die schwarzen pferde in dem wagen gespraunt. Col. {Dismissing him). Make them fast. 1 shall not be ready for a while. Ganz. Ya! Mein herr! ich well es than. (.Exit tip r.) Col. (-Paces in brief meditation, then.) I wil 1 go and shape matters; in the meanwhile, afford her a spell to tire of her ribald frolic, which for time to come shall be her last. (Exit up r.) (£^nier CORENE Z. Looks about '^lightly beivildered.) Cor. What? why! Fatlier is not here! What is all this? Am I walking, or do I walk in dreams? Is his anger and cruel words but seeming — or are they real? {Throws off the spell with forced laugh.) I must not shrink at the spectre of my own silly bodings. {Seats at end of tablet I.) 1 have surrendered young Gray and his c?ac?'5 riches to Loretto, or anyone else that wants him, as for that matter. Old Samp and Samps— well; I turn him out to Mrs. Vidette; and I know he will do /^er a ;DOM;erful sight of good. (.Imitating- Rises and speahs rhetor- ically. '> Give me a crust in a hut with intelligence worthy my respect, rather than a gilded palace dulled with ignor- ance— say nothing of love. <our roof (ivith a slight degree of sadn.ess), which 1 know is too grand to long shelter one so lowly (23) {Pleadinglrf.) But one assrrranee, CoreTre, and the rerr word shall take the rose's shape, and bloom perpetual in the garden of meEDory. Oorenet {Draining her affectionately to him.) * Cor. (Hesitatinff.) ^'VeU.l— H^den I (tvithstidden affection') — I do love you I (Embi'ace ; Corene hears some one I. ; guickl]/ disenqage». Gets, I. c, cinfased. Eld. r. CoR., aside.) O, I— certainly t'athei would not be so rude as to insult one in his own house. (Enter Loreti o Z.) Col. (To Lor. relieved..) Oh, I was afraid it was father! LOK. What's the use being afraid of your own shadow? (Qets to table.) I'd smile to see my old pap open his pate about my feller, if I had one. (Rummaging among papers on table.) I wish my pap kept a l)ank-shop, and left things this way {pidUout draioer), wouldn't I spoop! CoR. (Suppressed alarm, qoe» to her.) For the life of you I.orettol if father would find you among his papers! Lor. (Shoving drawer in.) Who's afraid of your old dad ? I didn't know but I might find a bank check. (Coming I arelessly down.) What did you do with your feller? (Seen Eld. ?-.) Goodness! Goodness! {Makes doionioard gesture with hands, looking with roguish surprise.) 1 thought you and Bill had both vamoosed. I guess Corene's been trying to hide you. If you was mine, I'd band-box you, and put the lid on every time any one came about. {Nears him.) Wha*- \ ou standing back there for ? Elo. I was standing on invitation. Lor. Pooh! Aint you invited? .Just do like me — come in and make yourself at home. (Turns away with an air of don't-care independence.) That's the way I do, and if tliey •lon't like it, I don't care. It's the way I want folks to do at my house. Corene, I guess Elden wants you to wing him ill. (Takes CoR.'s arm and escorts her to Eld., wj^o takes < '< iR.'s arm ; Lor. releasing, goes up r. c. Eld. and Cor. go '■'^nter. Eld. to left.) { E liter Pnii.. Samson r. Corene slightly coiif used, steps a pace r. c. Elden a pace down I. c. Samson, duking and glancing suspiciously around, goes near Corene, down and left of her.) Phil. Hey-dey ! Miss Co-rene (sarcastic), I shall endtever '<) lay up go-Id enough to meet all our immejate needcessi- I les. (Glancing insolently at Eld.) Cor. {Edges pace down l, so as to he nearly between Eld. and PniL.) Mr. Samson, 1 am at a loss Phil. I caekalate you be. (With derisive insinuation.) Ain't you flxen' to go into millinern, or some sich work. Cor. (Still puzzled.) You must have some riddle on your mind. I fail to understand your meaning I Phil. Jest as I sayed. Beant you goin' to milinern, with yon cliai) for a sign. (Indicating to Eld. with a coarse, contemptuous laugh ) Cor. (First betrays resentment, then composed.) Mr. Samson, this is Elden Wild— an esteemed friend of mine. (Eld., with suppressed contempt, bows.) Phil. (Very derisive.) He looks like a steamed clothes store. 1 guess he'd better husk them starchy garments and go a looking for a coal mine, or some other place to be airnen a livin'. (Contempt.) Cor. (Indignant.) Mr. Samson! Eld. (L., aside j with suppressed anger.) I dare noL assume here. (Aloud.) Miss Lavier— allow me to beg leave. And this gentleman (To FiWL. scornful) I regret sir, to be the subject of your profound wit. (Half aside.) I suppose, however, such pent-up abilities must find a field, or burst the feeble band— ^rai/t— that confines them. Cor. ( With persuasive embarrassment.) Excuse this mysterious license. Please, Mr. Wild, do not take of- fence. It is beyond my control. Eld. (Bitterly.) I do not hold you responsible— I would not be so ungenerous. But I appreciate your embarrass- ment. Forgive my intrusion. (Starts r. Cor. stops him.) Cor. No, No! Elden! You shall not carry with you this grievous slight. I— I— Elden! You must not leave under these circumstances. Lor. (Comes down.) What would you have him do?— Stand here and let that old stilt legs (points to Phil,, who betrays anger) make fun ot himV If it was /«y house (a step toward Phil., clenches teeth vengeful, Vhil,. cowers.) — Phil. (W ith assumptuov^ command.) Co-rene! Cor. (With resolution.) Mr. Samson! You shall not assume such liberties with guests of mine! There, s\v, is the door! ( With emphasis pointing to door.) ( Enter Ganz / at entrance. Stops I.) Ganz. (With a quick hand -flourish.) Yal (Then going quickly and spiritedly near Phil., shaking finger (25) menacingly, indicating r.) Dot been der hole was dem wood-butcher gemacht! Unt if joii don't took em {comes down aside, a^tto^e*^)— Himmels! \ told you what I do! I choke liimi ^Mahes for Piiih.,ivho sJculks up I; where Ganz siezes him ) (■Enter Col. Lavier, up r. Ganz releases Phil. Elden I. CORENE r. c. LoRETTO r. COLONEL rests eye on Elden a moment, then—) Col. Corene! Cor. (-Confused.) Father, this is Mr. Elden Wild! (Eld- advances a pace c. Col. goes c. as if to accept the introduction; but when between Eld. and Cor.. faces latter, bach to Eld., with scorn.) Col. (Sternly.) Corene! Out of a fatherly interest in your welfare, I am compelled to dissipate this etiierism — this mythical dream of yours— and inteivent tlie lifjht mer- riment of these ill-become guests. (.Indicates to hon. r. and Eld. I.) Cor. (With recoil amaze.) Why, father! What has hap- pened? Col. Happened ? (Steps angrily up to left of COR. She re- coils and gets down r. Col. agitated.) Nothing hzs happened! It has been one coniinual, ceaseless happening! I have at last waked to a realiz:ition of my duty. The soft spirit of Indulgence wliich is gradually leading my cliild to an ill- begone fate, yields to the harder resort of my firmer purpose. Cor. (Imploring to Eld , xoho starts as if to leave r.) O, Elden! Stay! (Aside, emotion.) Merciful I^Ieaven ! Can this be real? Or is it the hallucination which some secret mal- ady fore-runs! (Covers face, dazed.) Eld. Miss Lavier! Cor. ( Qnickly takes hands from face and goes to Eld. piteous- ly.^ O, Elden! (Turns wildly up.) My friends! (Turns doicn.) Am I mad? (Qoes again to Eld, imploring piteously.) Do not leave me till this fearful cloud passes over, Eld. (Takes her hand.) If your word for it Corene, it is agreeable, I will see you again on some more pleasant oc- casion. (Lets go her hand as if to go. She takes hold of him con- vulsively ) Cor. No, no! Elden! You shall not go! You cannot be so cuel as to leave me now. (Turns beseechingly to Col. «jd.) Father! You cannot be serious! (To Lor.) Loretto! (To Eld.) Elden! Stay! and do not abandon me. (Goes piteous (26) lyto Col.) Father, in mercy lift this veil! drive away the. demon ot this horid vision! i:'Hii2 {Reaches hand pacifically .) Co-rene, CoL.\Warns him back, furious.) Sir! Ganz. I choke im ! (business.) Col. {With }7iUd firmness.) Corene! my child— it means that you must divorce yourself from these foible attach- ments. I have ordered the carriage in waiting. Ganz will be your escort. (Cold and inipre.^si.vp.) VVe have determined to send vou to the monastery ! (Corene shrinks a moment, as If obhviotis, then to Eld.) Cor Elden! This cannot be real. Father is certainly 111 with some strange affection. Col. (Imperatively.) Corene! Bid this rude company a last good-bye; to your room and prepare! Lor. (Goes to Col. with saucy indignation.) Cheese your clatter, old man ; I guess I can find my way out at the same door I came in at. And you (to Eld., starts off with an independent flounce. Eld. also starts as if to go. Cor. (Intercepts with piteous appeal.) In mercy I be- seech you, do not leave me! Col. Corene! Cor. O, Elden! Eld. (Receives Corene, who falls affectionately into his arms.) Corene, is it your wish to go? Col. (Gathers Corene, shoving her r., and with the other hand shoves Eld. I. h.) Back, Sir ! Ganz. (Seizes Phil, who starts for Corene.) I choke 'im. Quick Curtain. Eld. down I. Lor. cloron r., in frigid. Col. left hand warding Eld., aiid right pointing commandingly up r. Cor. r. c, terror stricken. Phil. I.e., pretty tvell up. Ganz with Phil, by neck, he struggling. (27) Act III. Scene. Cloister Corridor somewhat dingy. Confine walls hack, and side I. Large folding or sliding door c, very heavy appearing, with large hasp for fastener, hut door not fastened — hasp hanging. Door up r. Boor I., just above 1 e. Bench or rustic settee I. {Enter Ganz r., hackwai-d, warding.) Ganz. No you don't! No-you-don't! {C. looking r side- ways.) Nine.' (Enter Will Gray r., threatening.) Will. Now you go way, old Detcliman! I fetched this letter, and I'm going to see her, if I have to stand on your pesky frame to do it. {Edging up c.) Gakz. {Earnest, with gesture of right index finger.) Veil, now, younk man, you don't look at 'er! I told you dot! Will. {Edging toward door, I.) See here, old Detch, if jou don't let me be, I'll spill you all over this floor, so I will; — Dod rat your dirty picture. {Shies, watching Ganz close- ly. Talks and acts as though he didn't exactly know hut he woidd have to retreat.) Ganz. I was afraid of ?/oif.' Nine! {Contemptuous force. Comes down aside.) 1 told you what I do! {Going for Will.) I choke 'im ! {As Will eludes and shies r. Ganz stops l.,puts hands under coat tail and looks grotesgue.) Will. {R., whining.) Plague on you, old sauer kraut, my dad's rich; and if I don't cut you into fiddle strings, and then play old Pidy on the strings, it's 'cause I can't. {Exit r- guick, as Ganz turns threatening ) Ganz. {C, vigorous, looking off r., menacingly.) Veil, you don't speak mit 'er! I told you dot! {Glances sideways r. with forcible contempt.) Nine! {Takes pipe frompocket, knocks ashes out, looking mad. Seats I., filling pipe.) Dot Banker told me {gesture with pipe). Ganz, nobody thust sphoken to Corene, but der vidder, unt dera breacher fellers what sthay in der house. {Turns v., looking scornfully mad and smokes.) Dot leetle dog Gray don't look at 'er! {Sud- den impulse, gets up, looks front, shaking pipe as if about to say something. The pipe flies of the stem. He picks it up, mad.) Hiramels! {Puts pipe on stem, then dashes it madly (28) on floor, comes damn excited.) I told you what I do! I choke Mm! {Ooes up grotesquely with hands under coat glancing down sideways. Exit, door up r. {Enter Col. Lavier I., unlocking door.) Col. It is strange how soon within this inrtuence one immures the faith. A few brief months amoni^ tliese peo- ple seems sufficient to reverse a whole life's training. Kven Ganz has learned to con their rituals with as rtivereut com- punction as one born under the shadow of Rume. Brother Bonard, whom I obtained to hold Corene in balance, assays now to be cal led father! Mrs, Vidette bows to their im- ages and cuts a cross in the air at every salutation. (Looks up r.) Ah ! {Enter Bonard, door up r.) Brother Bonard! {Bo's ard salutes vnth sign of cross. Col. betrays dislike, aside.) My reverend friend, how fares my daughter; is she resigned to the situaiion? Bon. (r.) Unless her tongue betrays her heart. Col. You have of course been notified that you will soon be called to solemnize the union between Philip Samson and my daughter. I suppose she is quite ready for the event. Bon. She consents; but I fear she is not happy for the occasion. However, as I entered I met Ganz and directed him to escort her hence, that you may test her mood— as I expected you here. {Eater Ganz r. up, stop grotesquely.) Ganz. Ganz Schoenheit ist mein Col. {Impatient.) Well, well, I can imagine the rest. Where is Corene? Ganz, {r. c.) She wouldn't come out. Col. {Nears Ga'sz anxious.) Wouldn't come? Ganz. Ya! I told her, "Corene, your fatter been here unt speak mit you," Col. {After a pause.) Well, is that all — isn't she coming? Ganz. Nine! {Vexed.) She wouldn't come out; I told you ! {Repeats with energy.) I said : "Corene, your fatter— Col. {Interrupts.) Well, well, you have already told me what you said ; what did she say? Ganz. {Vexed) Veil, 1 told you all de time! She was mat when you was comin, and told me: "Ganz, I don't spheak mit dot fatter!" {Comes doiori aside.) Himmels! dot kinder! (29) Col. (Aside.) Still the same! (Aloud.) How is this, brother Bonard? I supposed Cortne in perfect assent with the arrangement; but it seems she retains that sullen will, and refuses to even speak with me. Go at once and coun- sel with her. Show the stubborn girl that it is her only es- cape from this solitude; that she must embrace the oppor- tunity quickly, if at all. Ascertain what hedges are in the way, that I may provide accordingly. (Exit Bon. r. up, sign of Cl'OSS.) Col. (Vexed.) See the mock blessings! I must suffer one of two calamities. Either she will go out to drudge for that young Nick— TFiZd/ (clenches teeth at word " Wild") or remain here in training to serve old Nick in eternity ! No ! neither of these calamities are necessary. It is settled! (To Ganz.) Ganz, bring Mrs. Vidette. (Ganz starts.) (Enter Mrs. V. up v., huge cross neck-chain.) Nevermind! She is here, (she salutes with sign of cross; sgueamish reverence; Ganz v., grotesguely ; Col. aside in disgust,) and mimics with that infernal air-cross. (To Mrs. Vidette.) Corene is still untractible. I have advanced my plans. The marriage must take place at once. Mrs. V. (Sudden astonishment. Comes down c. with hand on side, affected.) Oh ! I shall certainly aspire. Ganz. (Aside.) Der tivil! Going to marry dem feller mit der ^-o-ld. Der vidder don't like it— she wants dot fel- ler herself! Col. (rtj Mrs. Vidette.) I'ou must go and reason with her. Mrs. V. (Recovered.) I fear she is still reviling in the manacles of mortuary vice! I will see the poor girl, and buriush from her gilded slub-6t)r«-ness, the tin foil of the world's blinding emulations. (Up r., looks over spectacles.) Colonel Lavier, it will do a powerful sight of good. (Exit up r., with sign of cross. Col. betrays disgust.) Col. Ganz, come with me! to-nieht we shall have a wed- ding and a feast, and then leave forever this school of crosses and formulate dogmas. Ganz. (Waddles up to Col. toitJi grotesgue meekness.) Was! Soil ich diesen platz verlassen wo selbst die luft ein himlicher duftist? Col. Stop that jargon gibberish! Come! (c. aside at I.) I will send a post boy at once and notify Philip to be on time. Also Senior and Will Gray to share the festivities. (To Ganz.) Come! (Exit Coi.. I.) (30) Ganz. {At L, uihistles, astonish.) Der tivil ! {Ex. I.) {Enter Bon. and Cou. r., slowly talking.) Bon. My child, your manner and speech are at variance. I fear you are not content. (Bon. r.. Cor. I.) These sacred isles are hateful confines, and each lattice a prison bar. (Cor. seats I. and seems cUjected. Bon. .yoes- kindly to her.) Speak out, my child, if ought amiss; and as our Master is merciful, so shall mercy come to you. Are yuu not kindly treated by these people? Cor. {Subdued.) Their kindness to me is limited only by their power to bestow. I have no complaint to offer. {Sad and downcast:) Bon. Dissemble not with me. Tiiis place is too sacred for feigning. Here, sweet religion is heaven's matma, ad- ministered to only those who relibh it, that they may grow strong in the meek grace of earl> preparation. To those to whom this food distastes. He will in compassion withhold it. (Cor. looks up blankly.) My child, if these negations which only strive to atfirm are signs of the seal within, this veil {her veil) obscures the sunshine of His gracious promise, rather than leading you in the light. Cor. {First sadly, sloiv,b7it increases in earnestness.) Mr. Bonaid — Father Bonard! I am not profaning! As to you my manner seems is the true reflex of what \ feel! {Gets up, pleadingly.) Oh, sir! if it is yours to do me favor — in m,ercy, I pray. Once within these grim and hideous walls, is there no escape? Am I doomed in tills gloom to waste— here where every fond thought of the past is shrouded in the draping mantle of remorse which memory of a lost love winds about me— here where the only ray of light is the hope of death! {Sadly, half aside.) Contented? O, G^ocZ.' that I were! No! Every pleasant word, each cheerful look or act is forced through curbed resentment! {Anx- ious.) Can you not take me from this place? Is there no escape ? Bon. Escape! {^O'R.Eaqer.) Here! Faith is the guar- dian censor of loye. If her presence disturbs, the gentle shepherdess withdraws, and yields her guardianship. Es- cape! My child! {Tone of surprise, at which Cor. turns in despair.) Why ask you that? The plight of faith leads you yet to-day to the altar of love and liberty. Cor. {With despairing energy.) Cease! cease! to mock my misery! In your mystery I read the alternative which (31) seals me to this fate! In the spirit of that mercy I bade you tell, I emplore, forbear! {vmil, aside.) Come thou medi- ate death! In thy merciful embrace claim me to that si- lence where my soul mCSdttf at least be free! {Sinks on seat I., covering face with lianas in deep emotion.) UoN. My child, vour speech is born of a hasty wish, I will leave you to serious reflection. Peace, my child! and may newer light reveal to you a newer glory: the brigiilness of which your veil but softens, that so intense it blinds you not! Peace! and may pure thoughts and a purpose to meet your solemn vows, bring you rest. {Exit r. u.) Cor. {Rises and going c, sadly.) O, Elden! when you abandoned your Corene. hope took wings. {Enter Will., v., Cor. shrinks hack; alarm.) Why, Mr. Gray! ?/owr presence surprises me! How came you here; how eluded the watch? Will. I didn't 'lude 'im ; he played that clioke game, but I slipped away, and am here on turf again. {Aside with as- surance.) ThatDetcliman haint no business to fool around me any more. (T^o Cor.) I fetc.\\ed th\s letter {Jiands letter). Cor. a letter! {Takes it quickly and clasping it raptur- ously.) A spark at last to illumine this heap of mouldering embers ! {Nervously opens and reads letter to herself, seem- ingly affected.) Will. [Aside.) May be! There's most always some spark in them kind of 'velopes. Cor. {Confused delight.) Thank you, Will— Mr. Gray! O, I thank you so sincerely! It was brave and kind in you. Will. I don't know what it says — I didn't read it. Cory — pon honor, I didn'i! {Aside.) I guess I didn't {aloud), but I would like to heir it. Cor. {Careless and as if pleased to do so.) O, there's nothing in it I would be so ungrateful as not to read you. {Reads.) "Miss Corene Lavier, (hesitates with momentary emotion, biting lips,) it is needless to inform you the diffi- culty I've had in gaining permission to see you. {Brief emotion— wipes away tear. Will wipes nose ?vith top of sleeve, and rubs tears out of his eyps with finger.) However, if by return, it is agreeable, I will see you to-morrow p. m. I do not know into whose hands this may fall, {turns slight- ly aside to hide emotion,) hence you must tax your own con- science as to what more I would say, did not prudence dic- (32) tate brevity." {Kisses letter and clasps it fervently between hands.) Oh, Elden ! Will. {Aside.) Dog on it, if I'd a know'd it was from that are dew'd I wouldn't a fetched it. {Aloud.) Cory, me and Lorets' been hearin' stories as how you and old Samp wasgoin' to git married, and then youd'go way from here! Cor. O, Mr. Gray ! {evasive); there is — nothing of it— not now. {Aside ecstatic.) No I Thank God for the sun's prom- ise! The clouds break! Tne storm's liarsh sound grows soft! The haunting spectre of that hideous form vanishes! TJie dread dream of life's exile dispels to waking hopes! {Hurried, but meditatively.) To-morrow p.m. {Looks at letter.) That was yesterday! To-day p. m.! {Hurriedly to Wil,!..) Mr. Gray, will you remain here 'till I can prepare an an- swer? It will be some time, as I must take precaution. {Looks around as though she feared being overheard.) I don't like to ask so much, and yet it will be so kind of you. {Get- ting up r.) Will, It ain't nothin'. I'd wait a hull day for you. {Exit Cor., r. door, locking it. Will turns down r.) If that old Detch don't play another choke 'em trick— dog on his spotted hide! {Works his head with rustic bravado.) Bill Gray hain't no coward ; and if I don't pin his old ribs to one of these puncheons with this knite! {exhibits long knife) and leave the blade fast; then its cause he won't let me— Ganz. {Outside I., calling) Corene! Will. Dog on it, there he is, now. {Cowers and half conceals in winq r.) Ganz. {As fie enters 1, calling) Corenel Corene! Say— you gal! (c, sees Will) was; dot Gray feller. You make dem sthrings for some fiddle,— eh? Veil now, you don't look at 'er, I told you dot. {approaches, shaking finger threatening.) Will. {Edges left, eluding.) I just want you to keep way from me, old Detch. {Talks whiningly, half daring and half timerou^s.) Ganz. (r.) Iwasafrait! {Looks over I. sJtoulder at W I'll disdainfully.) Nine! {Down aside.) I told you what 1 do! I choke 'im ! {making a grotesque ru^h for Will, who backs or slides up, eluding.) Will, ^ow, go way from here. {Gets r., eluding Ganz who is after him) My dad's rich, and— {Just here Ganz presses him. He falls back in wing r., but not concealed. Makes a thrust at Ganz ; but as he does so, Ganz draws him- (33) self way up, the knife passing between his legs. Ganz wheels suddenly and strides rapidly to door I. Will overtakes him. Gasz faces, and as Will makes thrust, this time higher up, Gakz pulls himself down by spreading at the knees, at same time taking himself by crotch of pants; so that knife passes over shoulder. Waddles rapdly in this grotesque position to I. u. e., when Will again overtakes him. Ganz straightens himself up, and as Will thrusts, draws himself up. Knife passes through coat at side, or in crotch. Ganz throws up hands, with) : Ganz, Himmels! Er hat mich in des bauchgeschnitten! Katrina! Katnna! Es ist um geschehen! (Turns and falls with a thud 071 face, in wing out of sight— knife sticking in. Will stands a brief moment in daze, then comes down, par- tially out of breath, reproaching himself.) Will. Bill Gray, you're a blasted fool. Youv'e done something tliat'U stay done. (Almost erying with alarm.) What shall I do? Dog on the old Detch bugger; I wish I'd a never seed 'im! (With bravado.) My dad's rich. (Cour- age drops.) But I guess I'd better not be catched here! Cory '11 hev to send that letter by next mail. (Exit r.) (Enter Elden r. after pause.) Eld. (Looking about.) Strange room for a prison. It looks more like a reception place to some public institution. This must be her air-chamber — that is, where they permit her to exercise and take fresh air. If I had known the room was of such easy access, I would never have waited on the will of prelates. It must be a place of common re- sort, as I am sure I saw some one breaking, though rather hastily, from here just as I came up. (Goes I.) I was too impatient to await reply to my letter, if she ever got it; and I am now equally impatient to learn the extent of my wel- come. I'll still misgivings bv making myself familiar with the premises. (Tries door I., which opens readily. Closes it.) Not locked! (Goes to door up r., finds it locked.) Ah! lock- ed! It's the first secrecy I've experienced thus far! (Goes up left, sees Gx^z.) Ah! the secret of no secrecy! The guard asleep on picket! (Looks.) That German. (Looks.) What! still as death! (Draws back alarmed.) A crime has been committed! (Quickly takes up dagger.) Who has done this deed? (Excited.) A murder] (Steps c. and is fright- ened.) This solves the mystery of no guard; and also of (34) the mysterious retreat of the person I saw leaving here! What shall I do ? If caught here might I not be suspected ? I will arouse some one! I will give the aZarm/ murder I {Enter Bon. hastily up r., unlocking door.) Bon. Sir! what is this you say? How came you here? Where's the guard ? (Bon. is astonished and speaks with hasty force.) Eld. {Going I. u. quickly and points to Ganz.) See ! a murder! Bon. {Goes up I. and looks amaze, then confronts Eld fiercely.) Fie'sdI And with that dagger! {Points at dagger , Eld. staggers r. c. and lets dagger fall, bewildered.) {Enter Col. I., haste.) Bon. {To Col. excited.) Seize this man ! He is a mur- derer ! Col. {Rushes toward Eld., but draws back as he sees who it is.) Elden Wild!! Eld. {Springs dexterously and gathers dagger and re- treats a step down r.) I am no murderer, but I shall not be responsible for what maj/ happen! {They press him. He falls back r. and brandishes dagger.) Stand off! I say; till I can explain ! {Retreats edgeways a few feet up r.) Bon. {Assumes composure.) You shall do that to tlie courts, but not here. Eld. {Gesture flourish with dagger.) Before Heaven, I am innocent! Col. Seize the wretch! Bon. Yes, seize him ! But who ? {Enter Senior Gray r.) Sen. Hello, Lave! This is a purtt,y crowd for a specta- ble wedden! {Refers to Eld.) You must hev done like the Bible and gone out into the big road and hedge-fence cor- ners for company. {Coarse laugh.) Col. Senior Gray, a foul murder has been committed ! Sen. Well, that does smell weddenish. {Goes to Col. with Jocular familiarity.) Say, Laye; it'll take more'n one fowl to fill my knap-sack alone {pats belly); besides, my Will, that McFa gal, and a hull lot o' folks '11 be here. Sup- pose you let the dewd come over as ornaments, or to make fun for us guests. {Looks at Eld. with an illiterate smile of disdain, and then winks at Bon.) Where's Datch ? Bon. {Senous.) My friend, I know you not; but this is (36) too serious for jest. The faithful watchman, Ganz, has been foully dealt with. Sen. Been pay in' him with his own silver. {Vacant grin.) Choke 'em ! Been wringing (goes through motion) his neck for a fowl! ha, ha, ha! Col. (Goes to him earnest.) Senior Gray, there Is no jest in this; Ganz has been murdered! {Pointing trag- ically at dagger in Eld.'s hand.) Help us seize that man! {Goes tragically as if to take hold of Eld., who falls hack and brandishes dagger. Sen. also advances, but both cower back as Elden draws back to make a pass with dagger.) Eld. {With furious defiance.) I could defy a regiment of such cowards. Sen. {Eyes Eld. suspiciously, taking Col. aside.) I say, Lave, is there any spondulix in this? Let's capter 'the whelp and hide him fer a reward ! (Eld. is now calm. Sen. bristles up to him, eyeing him and being careful not to get too close.) Put up that knife, sir! {Impatiently to Col..) Lave, take that ar beastly knife away from him and I'll make short work of it. Eld. {Steps guickly c, CoL. cowers back, and Sen. retreats hastily to left, throwing Col . between he and Eld. Bon. I. c. Eld. hands dagger, handle first, to Bon.) I trust my in- nocence with you for vindication. Bon. {Takes Eld.'s arm going r.) You shall have full justice! Sen. {As Bon, and Eld. near r.) I'm not af eerd to capter the desprado! {Seizes Eld. by shoulder from behind with pom- pous bravado.) You're my meat! You cowardly pup. {Looks back at CoL. and still holding his grip on Eld.'s shoulder.) Y''ou see, Lave, I'm the fust to lay hands on him. {as theyeccit r.) Go hev the reward offered. {Exit Bon. and Eld. in arm. Sen. gripping Eld.'s shoidder. Col. paces excited and confused a moment, then becomes possessed.) Col. a scene I little expected; and it increases the puz- zle. Shall I make this known to my daughter; or await de- velopments? A strange thought forces over me! Can this be the result of some fell plot for her escape ? Why came he here? And how? The last question finds answer in this sad scene. Ko, no! It cannot be! Away suspicion that my daughter {draws himself up with dignified pride) (36) W^l«1%«gg^'rf'%Vif^em^^6'iAfamous! (Looks up r.) Ah! Mrs. Vidette. -iCi) ' '• " (Enter Mrs. V. r. u., with sign of cross.) Col. (To Mrs. V., after a shudder of disgust.) Mrs. Vi- dette Mrs. Y. (Before he can proceed.) Colonel Lavier, I saw your daughter in the coriander, with— alack that I should say it— but I felt it mv duty to tell you— she had in her hand a bit of papah [—(Zoo/cs ot)e/-«;c»ectocZes) and a pen and ink. Col. Still crazed in the pestiferous literary meshes. Mrs. V. She was wendins: to the antic with epistleary motives — a lettah, Colonel ! a lettah ! (looking over specta- cles.) Col. (Aside.) A letter! Such liberties are dangerous! (Aloud.) Mrs. Vidette, to whom is this girl writing? There are reasons why I must know. (Hears Coreneup r., stops.) Cor. (Outside up r.) I am sorry to keep you so long. Col. (Aside.) Ah! she comes, and expects to find some one. Ah, ha! (Enter Corene r, u.) Cor. (As she enters.) Here! (Sees Col,., and stops in sur- prise.) Why! you frighten me with surprise! I— I (confus- ed) thought— it — was — Mr. Gray! (aside as if half regretting she had said it.) 1 will not deceive. Col. I regret the presence of a father should be occa- sion for surprise— especially when he comes announced. Corene, you were not expecting Mr. Gray here! Cor. Indeed, I was not expecting you here ; notwithstand- ing you were announced! Col. Ah, yes; I remember the word you sent me just now. But, Corene, a father claims the liberty of imperti- nence. I am here, even though you did send word you did not wish to see me. Cor. (Apologetic.) Father, I was occupied then, I— I (s'oes to him and takes his hand) I am glad to see you. Why should I deceive you? I swear it, not twenty minutes ago I left Mr. Gray here. Col. My daughter, it may have been some one in gray clothes; but you expected to meet (turns head and speaks vengeful) Elden Wild! Cor. (Lets go. Half aside in surprise.) Elden Wild! (37) (spirited) I tell you it was not him! Haven't you seen Mr. Gray? I am not falsifying. Col. (Turns head from her and speaJcs soft.) Yes ! (Di- rect inci'easing iii earnestness.) He just left here, in com- pany with Bonard {ind—Elden Wild! ! (with tragic jesture.) Cor. (As if thunderstruck; then.) No, no I Was Tie here ? (aside, suppressed joy.) O, Elden Col. This deception must end. I am not to be mocked at. Cor. (Assumes cool d'iterminatiou.) Neither am I. But you shall be wholly undeceived, I tell you, and stand on my honor for its truth, I expected to find William Gray at this place on my return. You admit he w^s here, and yet ques- tion my word. Col. I admitted no such thing. It was Senior Gray who left here but a moment since. CoK. (Aside.) There is some ruse or mystery here; what can it mean? (Aloud, sudden, boldly.) I was expecting in reply to this (exhibits letter), a call from Mr. Wild I (handing letter) here! HEAD] ! It is to him,; m answer to one frojn him. Col. (Takes letter, but does not read.) I will not read it. (Furious.) My eyes shall not rest on a line from one so vile. Take this Ititter I (hatids back in nervous agitation.) Keep it, if you like. Embalm it as a last (checks his anger sudden, and turns away) Mrs. V. (Qoes consolingly to Cor.) Yes, wrap it in a balm of Gilead as a last momentum of the poor young man. (At exit.) It will do •ApowQxtnX sight of good. (Exit.) Cor. (To Col., standing with decisive calmness,) Well, I am dwelling on your last, and wait with patience. Col. Corene! (sharply, then persuasive.) My child, will you listen a moment to reason V Once I was wiser than my parents— in my own estimation. How sadly I have re- alized the fallacy. (Takes Cok.'s hands. She grows at- tentive.) This experience overtakes us all. To think, should I give to your childish fancy its wont, instead of the bride of wealth, of honor, and the splendor of a rich home, you would yield yourself the faded slave of penury and want— and dishonor. Cor. (Bitterly, disengaging.) Do not say dishonor ! The breath of poverty may sweep over me; but do not mention Elden's fair name in connection with dishonor! (Col. turns aside to hide his anger at name of Eld.) (38) Col. {Energy.) What! Still defending a name which for humanity's sake should never been known? {Comes quickly down, aside.) I see! it is the only way! {Aloud.) Co- rene, rob the glossary of its power to express it, of the name of a murderer {tragic) may not beheld in dishonor. QoiK. {Shocked.) A murderer! {A moment as if paralyzed, then aside.) No, no! It cannot be! {Aggressive.) Retract the base slander, ov prove it! I shall forget that you are a father. Filial ties, nor yet the bands of humaaity shall hold me in check if this infamous slander is not proren. Col. {Quickly, aside.) The climax is here. She shall known the fearful truth! {Quickly to Cor.) My child, I had hoped you would spare me the pain of such proof! aye, of revealing to your young sight — unused to deeds so black — that which will make your blood chill! Cor. {Mingled fear and resentment.) For God's sake what fearful mystery is this? Are you wild? CoL. Me wild! {weird laugh) ha! ha! No, no! Not me— but Elden Wild! (CoR. startled; he takes her hand rashly.) Come! {Leads her to wing.) The proof! Sec, child! {Points hut turns down without looking.) The mangled form of poor Gan/. run through with i\\^t fiend's dagger! Cor. {Looks, draws hack with horror, shrieks as she does so; then goes in wing and looks again; then hack in amaze, looking ahout wildly.) Why, what monstrous thing is this? {To Col., in wild emotion.) Father, you are certainly mad ! {Hands over face as if to recover.) Or am I mad ? Where am I? {In wing.) Father, there is no one here! {Steps hack, looking at CoL., and pointing in wing.) No one there ! {Pauses, resting eyes on Col. bewilderingly.) In God's name, what mean you ? {Pause, then feeling walls, mystified.) Are these cold walls real ? or are they but canvas, throwing back strange forms on my poor brain? {Goes again, looks in wing.) Father, there is nothing herel Col. {Goes up abruptly and points in wing.) Se«! (Cor. goes up timid, hut shrinks hack. Col. looks, and then draws hack a moment, as if dumb.) What! {Looks again.) Gone! {Paces up and down.) Mysterious disappearance! This is some ghoul's work ! {Enter Bonard r., slightly agitated.) Col. {To Bonard.) Bonard, Can you solve this? (Bow. stops, questioning. CoR. nears him, eagerly. Col. continue'}.) Some one has spirited away the body of Ganz. {Takes (39) Bon. abruptly up, and pointing.) See! It is gone! (Bon. looks with surprise.) Bon. Strange incident! The inmates must have discov- ered the body and secretly removed it. (Loud jeers heard up. Coi.. and Bo^. stop i?i wonder. Cor. cowers.) Cor. (To Bon., urgent.) What fearful noise! (Jeers again. They again stop in wonder.) Bon. I will step out and see. (Exit I. u.) Col. Corene! (She goes pensively to him.) Becalm your- self. You are surely convinced. Let us leave this fearful place, and soon in the gratitude of escape you will forget these fearful scenes. Change this darkly veil for one of softer whiteness. Philip Samson Cor. (Impetuous defiance.) What! Leave here to think of him! No! Rather this labyrinth of despair; rather the veil of prisons, of death! than the broad world, decked in the whitened gossamer of false love. No! Here in this bastilel can at least wear my slave chains; and like silken chords they hang about compared with the icy touch of that hideous man ! (Jeers. Dumb astonishment.) (Enter Bon. I. u., somewhat abrupt. Cor. (Ootstohim.) Father Bonard! What fearful noise? (Jeers.) Bon. (Recovering calmness.) My child, look beyond the clouds for a silver hning! Cor. What new hope is this ? Have you come in answer to my fears— a taunting nemesis to mock my misery with false hopes? Or, witli mercy's omen, in answer to my prayers? Speak on! Mr. Bonard! (Turns half aside, de- spondent.) No.no! It is enough! (Looks blankly, first in CoL.'s face, then in BoN.'s) In every feature is written cruel indifference. Bon. My child (bell heard), that is a joyous bell pealing glad sanction of the holy rite which the recent fearful scene alone prevents. (Bell in another direction.) That is another bell, tolling a sad requiem for a soul condemned. Instead of a bridal veil of purest white, which should orna- ment this occasion, off yonder (points up) the black cap of despair drops and hides from curious gaze one Col. (Steps tip, and takes words out of Bon's mouth,as it vjtre.) One from whom you have escaped to revel in the pillows of pomp. (Jeers.) These discordant jeers are the just mock of the vigilants. (Tragic, to which Cor. shrinks, (40) buries face in hands a moment.) Cor. For God's sake spare me! Is this bitter dreg to be added to my cup? O God ! that my prison walls had been kind— they would have fallen and buried me! (Delirium.) Friends! Father! (First at one and then the other.) Where am I? Is there no friend to rescue me from this rabble? (Jeers.) Hark! The vigilants! (Rushes up, then back, from one to the other.) Go! save the innocent! Col. (Takes her hand rudely.) What! would you save a wretch who kills? Cor. (Jerks loose. Stares at Qo'L. a moment.) Save him? Yes! (Stamps foot in with vehement emphasis, at which Col. draws back.) And I will! (Rushes up and forces open c. door. As door opens, calcium lights reveal suspended effigy. Rabble in back ground, Jeering. Con. rushes and drops on knees at foot of scaffold. Clasps hands in despairing agony, rests eyes on effigy.) My God ! Too late ! too late ! Tableau. Bon. (L. c, hands racked across breast, head bowed. Col. r. tu7'ns down in sullen contempt. Slow, solemn music. Curtain de.