PRICE TWENTY-FIVE CENTS I PLAYS FOR FEMALE CHARACTERS ONLY ^ 15 CENTS EACH IF CBAITFOBD 3>AM£. Lulu. I'm so glad Mr. Elliot is not hurt. Jane (seeing Margaret). Behold the latest convert to Bronsonism! (r. c.) Margaret. No indeed ! I have only been counting the sheep. I am no longer one of the flock. Lulu {at r.). What do you mean? Margaret. I have resigned from the Sunday School, the Missionary Society, the Ladies' Aid, the Christmas Entertain- ment Committee and everything else except church member- ship. Muriel. Why, Margaret, we can't get along without a worker like you. Margaret. Oh, yes, you can. I only worked hard because dear old Mr. MacDougall inspired me. I'm sure Hugh Bron- son is a young prig, and I simply intend to keep out of his way. {Goes up r.) Muriel. And you won't stay and meet him, and find out he isn't the least bit of a prig? {Goes up c.) Margaret. I would not be here when that train arrives for {Pause) "A' the siller in Edinburgh." {Going down l. c.) Jane. Perhaps you have discovered that " Absence makes the heart grow fonder." Perhaps our "Rising young law- yer" has influenced your resignation, eh Margie? {Goes up to window. Muriel goes down r.) Margaret. Never ! You girls might just as well stop specu- lating about that. I never was engaged to Lester Elliot, and I never will be, and if any of you girls want him, take him, and earn my lasting gratitude. Lulu (a* r. c). Why Margie, you didn't talk like that last June. (Jane goes down l.) Margaret i,c.). Perhaps with not so much emphasis. Les- ter is a nice lad, but I met a man this summer who sweg^ Miss Neptune. 9 me off my feet. A man of great vitality, virile and yet ten- der, masterful and yet chivalrous, with a brilliant mind, en- riched with poetic understanding, — a practical worker, but a persistent idealist — Jane. Hear! Hear! Are you open to congratulations? Margaret. Hardly. (Laughing) I don't even know his name, and shall probably never see him again (Sighs) "Till a' the seas gang drv." Muriel. But how can you know him so well when you are not even acquainted? Margaret. I was out swimming alone one day, and my amphibious disposition made me too venturesome. I was caught in a current and was being carried out to sea when he rescued me in a small sailboat. Lulu. How thrilling! Margaret. It was rather. But we became so interested in talking about everything under the sun that we never reached personalities, and while I tried to discover his iden- tity afterwards, I failed. Jane. He must have been a wonder. Margaret. He was. In fact, I think he was a Triton, and not a flesh and blood man after all. Lulu. How you talk! Margaret. Just midsummer madness, Lulie! By the way, I wonder where Mrs. Blunt is? (Goes up to window, followed by Lulu) Muriel. It is strange she is not here, considering her de- votion to tlie ninister's pet subject — forcisrn missions. Jane. Yes, she ought to be here to tell him just what to preach about next Sunday. Margaret. Well, she is a dear soul, anyway. (Looks at clock. Rapidly) "Mycertie! ( Goes down l. c. ) The exciting moment is almost here. I'll be stepping. (Goes l.) Perhaps I'll meet Mrs. Blunt on the way. Sorry I can't induce any of you to come along. (Laughs) Fsirewelh (A^ l, d.) Don't kill him with the milk of human kindness. [EXIT l. d. laughing NOTE. — Ticket window opens noiselessly. Muriel (c). Well, I don't believe in falling in love with a myth. If I were Margaret, I would take a short cut to matrimony, and accept Lester. Lulu (at window). Look here and see who is coming! (Girls rush to window) 10 Miss Neptune. MuEiEL. It is Eloise Featherton in that rickety old buggy to escort the minister to the manse. Jane. Oh, Lord! What a get up! Don't bark at it, Bus- ter. ENTER Eloise Feathebton c. d. Eloise. Oh, girls ! I thought Dobbin would never get here in time. We couldn't let Mr. Bronson take the stage — ^so in- hospitable, you know. (Goes to mirror) Jane (at b.). He might get there quicker. Eloise (mysteriously). He might not want Jerry to drive him in the stage if he knew. Girls. What? Eloise (Reckoning to girls). My dears! It is most excit- ing news. They say that last Sunday Mrs. Bichman left her gold purse in her pew and that Jerry stole it! Lulu. How dreadful! i Jane. I don't believe it! MuBiEL ( at window ) . Look, who is coming now, and the train is due. (All rush to window) Eloise. It's Mrs. Blunt and Margaret. Lulu. Margaret ! Jane. Mrs. Blunt is limping and leaning on Margaret's arm. (Noise of approaching train is heard) Muriel. And here comes the train. ENTER Margaret and Mrs. Blunt c. d. Muriel. Why, Margaret! (Sound of voices of Mrs. Rich- man, Hugh Bronson and Lester Elliot off stage) Margaret. "The best laid schemes o' mice and men gang aft a-gley." ENTER Mrs. Rich man, Hugh Bronson and Lester Elliot, l. d. Mrs. Rich man. You must let me take you up in my car. (Goes to c. D. Elliot and girls how. Elliot at extreme l. tvatches Margaret) Muriel (at l. c. goes forward and shakes hands with Hugh Bronson). I am so glad to see you, Mr. Bronson. Hugh Bronson. Miss French, I bielieve. Muriel. And I want you to meet my friends, Miss Boardman jind Miss Marsh. (Jane and Lulu down 9.) Miss Neptune. 11 Hugh (crosses b., shakes hands with them). A great pleas- ure to meet my congregation so soon. I appreciate the kind attention. Mrs. Blunt (going down c). I fell down hurryin' here to welcome you. (Shakes hands) I would have missed you if this dear child had not helped me. Miss Cameron — Mr. Bron- son. (They shake hands, Hugh crossing to c.) Hugh. It was indeed kind of you both, but (Turning r. to Mrs. Blunt) tell me, are you much hurt? Margaret (aside). My Triton. Mrs. B. Dear no ! Just a slight wrench in my rheumatic ankle. Hugh. I am glad it is nothing serious. (Turning l. to Margaret) I met you in Grenville during my last visit, did I not? Margaret. Oh, no! I have just returned from the sea- side. Hugh. Strange ! I thought we had met before. Eloise (at R. Interrupting). We have never met before, Mr. Bronson, but I must shake hands with you. Perhaps I could drive you to the manse. Hugh. Thanks, but — Lester Elliot (l. c). I hoped to take you in my run- about, but my trace broke on the way. Mrs. R. (l.). I asked you first to come along with us. Jane (at ivindow). Here is daddy with his trotter " Star Pace." You had better come with us in the road wagon, eh Buster? Hugh. You are all so kind, but I won't deprive the stage- driver of his fare. Will you all excuse me? Mrs. R. J Eloise \ (disappointedly). Oh! (Hugh moves up stage) Jane ) Jerry (opening c. d.). All aboard! Lulu (going up). I hope you like chicken broth? I am going to leave it at the manse for your supper. I was afraid Eliza would only make tea. Muriel. And I shall go with her and leave some of our grapes for your dessert. (Opening hasket) Eloise. But you must wrap this shawl around your knees (Suiting the action to the word) in that draughty stage. Jane. And here is a footstool. (Laughing and holding out Buster) Hugh (looks helpless. Comedy 'business). Thank you all, 13 Miss Neptune. I shall accept your gifts with pleasure, except the footstool. (Patting Buster; to Jane) I could not think of robbing you of such a treasure. (Turns and looks at Margaeet. Elliot is gazing at Margaret and Hugh who are absorbed in each other) Mrs. R. (l.). Lester! Lester (aside). They have met before. Hugh. Good-bye, until we meet again! (Margaret holds pose. Mrs. R. at l. d., Lester gazes at Margaret) [EXIT c. d. GiELs (following Hugh out). Good-bye. (Margaret gazes after them, smiling) [EXIT Jane, Eloise, Muriel, Lulu c. d. Lester (aside). She must love him to smile like that! Mrs. R. Aren't you coming, Lester? (Touching his arm, Margaret turns her head confused) Lester (holding pose). Yes. (Turning l. and speaking vehemently) I will go with you anywhere, now. [EXIT Mrs. R. and Lester l. d., quickly Mrs. B. (at l. c). Are you dreamin'. Lassie? Margaret. Yes, do dreams ever come true? ENTER Eloise r. d. Eloise. Oh, what do you think, what do you think? They say Jerry is going to be arrested for stealing Mrs. Richman's purse. Mrs. B. What! (Excitedly). Is that true? Margaret (r.). Not dear old Jerry. Eloise. Well, I heard it in front of the Court House, so I just guess it is. Mrs. B. Come, Margaret, help me to get to the Court House at once. I shall not permit honest Jerry to be arrested. Eloise. You know what the old darkey himself said when caught with a chicken under each arm. " Well, you know, niggers will steal, sah, niggers will steal." Margaret. But not Jerry. Eloise (goes r.). My dear, I always see eveiybody go in and come out of church. I saw Mrs. Richman go out,- and then Mrs. Blunt came last. Nobody was left but Jerry, (Dramatically) and he had to lock the organ right next to Mrs. Richman's pew ! Margaret. But there must be some mistake. Mrs. B. (significantly). There is! there is! Eloise. How can you prevent his arrest? Miss Neptune. 13 Mrs. B. I don't know, but I will. What, lock up an inno- cent man in jail? Never! I'll make them arrest me before Jerry shall go to prison! CURTAIN. ACT II. SCENE.-^HuGH Bronson's study. Five days later. Doors c. and L. Book-cases up r. and l., also against l. wall. Re- volving book-case l. Fireplace down r. Desk and revolv- ing chair r. Telephone, pipe, writing material, memoran- dum hook, etc. on desk. Easy chair r., chairs r. and l. Photo on mantel. DISCOVERED Hugh Bronson at desk, writing. Old fashioned clanging hell rings off stage and postman's whistle is heard. Hugh. Oh, why does a minister's maid-servant seek diver- sion on Saturday nights? (EXITS c. d. and RETURNS with mail. Goes to desk and opens letter). Invitation to dine, Miss Marsh. {Opens another) Ditto, Miss Boardman. (Opens another) Hum! still another. Miss French. I shall have in- digestion if I keep on dining at this rate. (Opens another) Invitation to supper, by way of variety, Mrs. Richman. (Opens another) May she be honored by Mr. Bronson's accepting an invitation to drive. Miss Featherton. Well, " The fly that sips treacle is lost in the sweets." (Opening another) What's this ? Hum ! A personal letter from Andy Milton, new sec- retary of the Board of Foreign Missions of this State. (Read- ing letter) "Dear Hugh: — I have just received, postmarked Grenville, an anonymous letter containing $25.52, for the cause, and thought it might interest you, as your church is the most active in the work in your town. Look out for your modest philanthropist! With best wishes for your success. Sin- cerely" — (Opening another) And what is this? (Looking at signature) Mrs. Blunt, with an enclosure. (Looking at enclosure) Enclosure signed " Margaret Cameron. Her res- ignation from the church societies. (Looking at Mrs. Blunt's letter) Mrs. Blunt urges me to persuade Miss Cameron to change her decision. (Turning to fireplace) Now, how am I to do that? (Turning to desk) Well, I must write this ser- mon. (Writes hurriedly for a moment. Turns to fireplace) 14 Miss Neptune. Strange how that girl's voice rings in my ears, and her face continually comes before me. {Provoked) I can't seem to keep my mind on my subject. I say to myself (Margaret's music heard faintly off stage) "Margaret Cameron" "Mar- garet Cameron " in the most ridiculous way. {Door-hell rings) Another interruption ! When will to-morrow's sermon be writ- ten? {Opens c. D.) ENTER Jerby c. d. Hugh. Good evening, Jerry. Jerry. 'Sense me, Marse Bronson, I knocked at de back do' but nobody done come, so I had de effrontery to ring de bell. Please to 'sense me. Hugh. Well, what can I do for you? {Bits at desk) Jerry (c). Well, I see you is mos' particularly busy, a sermon, I suppose, sah. Hugh. Yes, to-morrow's sermon on Foreign Missions. Jerry. Lordy, Marse Bronson, why don't dey jus' religion- ize de folks in dis yeah country? Hugh. Because we have so many benefits as christians, we want to share them — to teach those, who know nothing of the bible, how to live. Jerry. But Miss Featherton done tol' me dose folks in China are very honest critters, never steals nothin', never gets drunk and behaves pretty tolable well. Hugh. Yes, they have a good many fine traits. Jerry. Well, dey is a good many Christians in dis yeah country, sah, dat ain't as good dat-a-way as dese heatheners. {Telephone on desk rings) Hugh {taking receiver). Hello! Good evening, Mr. Elliot. Yes indeed. Come right along. In half an hour you say. All right, good-bye. {Puts up receiver) Well, Jerry, what did you want to see me about? Jerry. 'Sense me, Marse Bronson, but do you know any- thin' 'bout bein' 'rested? Hugh {laughs). Not from actual experience. Jerry {laughs). Haw! Haw! I guess not. But Marse Elliot says I'se gwine ter be 'rested, an' I don' quite understan'. Hugh. Why are you going to be arrested? Jerry. Well, Marse Elliot says I done stole Mrs. Rich- man's pocket-book with a heap of money in it outen her pew las' Sunday mawnin'. Hugh {earnestly). Well, did you? Miss iTeptune. 15 JEBEY. No sah, I suttinly did not, sah. My mother always tor me nebber to steal notMn' cos you is always right sure to get found out. Well, I'm found out, but I jus' natchelly never did de stealin'. Hugh. Can you prove your innocence? JEEEY. I don' exactly know, sah. But I'se awful tired run- nin' dat stage, an' takin' care of dis yeah church. I reckon de or jail would be about de nex' bes' place to de cemetery fo' a good rest. _ Hugh. What does Mr. Elliot say? jEEEY. Marse Elliot say I'se gwine to be 'rested an' brung to de Court House Monday mawnin' fo' trial, an' he wants my disposition befo' dat time. Hugh. Oh, your deposition, you mean. jEEEY. Yas, Marse Bronson, yas sah, an' I thought mebbe you-all would condescend to help me with the wordin' of this yeah disposition. I can do de writin' I guess, sah, but I hasn't got de ejucation fo' de wordin', I reckon. Hugh (rising). Well, sit right down here, Jerry, where the writing materials are, and I will help you. jEBEY. Lordy, Marse Bronson, ef I sit in dat holy chair, I'se sho' gwine free to heaven. Hugh (c). Well, sit down then. Faith probably will get you there. jEEEY {swinging around in revolving chair, getting up and sitting doicn again). I'se learned de firs' part by heart. {Busi- ness trying to write) I, Jeremiah Johnson, bein' of soun' min', mem'ry and understandin', do hereby declah that, — Now, what do I declah, sah? Hugh {sits l. laughing). You're not writing your will, eh Jerry? jEEEY {smiling). No sah! I don' s'pose I'll done get electr'- cuted, anyway. Hugh. Well, you had better fix it up right for Mr. Elliot like this, — " I, Jeremiah Johnson, of full age, being duly sworn, according to law, on my oath, do depose and say, that I did not steal the pocket-book jEEEY. I, Jeremiah Johnson of full age, bein' duly sworn, accordin' to law, on my oath, do depose an' say that I did not steal the pocket-book Hugh. Left in Mrs. Richman's pew jEEEY. Lef in Mis' Richman's pew Hugh. And furthermore jEEEY. And, futhermore 16 Miss Neptune. Hugh. That I have no knowledge- Jerby. Dat I'se no knowledge- HuGH. Regarding its disappearance. JEREY. Regardin' its dis'ppearance. Signed, Jeremiah John- son. Witness — (Looking toward Hugh.) Hugh. I will witness it. (Crosses e., sits at desk, looks at paper) I see you believe, with Roosevelt, in phonetic spelling. JEEEY. Yas, Boss. I sho' is a Bull Moose. Hugh (signing). There! You can leave it here until to- morrow evening after church. I will have a talk with Mr. Elliot in the meantime, and see what can be done. Jeeby (going to c. d.). Thank you, sah, thank you. I s'pose my old mule would miss me consid'able if I left her and went into de jail. My fambly is all daid, sah. Hugh. Well, good night, and good luck to you, and, (Smil- ing, and holding out his handkerchief) tie that around the in- side of my door-bell as you go out, will you? jEEEY. Haw! Haw! I suttinly will, sah, yes sah. Hugh (as Jeeey is going out). Oh, Jerry, just leave that handkerchief in the hall for future use, I forgot about Mr. Elliot. Jeeey (at c. d.). Haw! Haw! Very well, sah, yas sah. [EXIT c. D. Hugh (writes hurriedly for a moment. Bell icings. Holds up one page). One page of to-morrow's sermon. (Tearing it up. Walking up stage) I shall have to turn to my sermon " bar- ren " (Indicating files in revolving hook-case) Well, what is every sermon but old truth in a new dress? i Opens c. d.) ENTER Mueiel and Lulu c. d. GiELS. Good evening! Hugh (shaking hands). Oh, how do you do. Miss French. Pleased to see you, Miss Marsh. Won't you sit down? Mueiel e. c. Hugh c. Lulu l. Mueiel. Well, I don't believe we have time. We came to ask a favor. Hugh (goes to desk). Well, please be comfortable while you ask it. (Oirls sit. Muriel r. c. Lulu l.) Lulu. But you appear to be very busy. Hugh. Oh, well ! My time belongs to my congregation. That work can wait, (Aside) as usual. Mueiel. Mrs. Blunt has sent word that she cannot take her class to-morrow, and asked one of us to substitute. Miss Neptune. 17 Lulu. I should be frightened to death, MuEiEL. You see it is a grown-up class to which we belong, and neither of us feel competent to lead the discussion, so we thought perhaps you would help us. Hugh (smiling). I believe, like Miss Marsh, "I should be frightened to death." Lulu. But you are accustomed to public speaking. Muriel (smiling). You must have talked to girls before, at college teas and on vacations. (Lulu walks up l.) Hugh, -" Talked " — yes, but not " taught." They generally taught me. (Bell rings) Hugh. Excuse me. (Rises. Goes to c. d.) Eliza is gregari- ous this evening. (Opens door) ENTER c. D. Eloise, who comes hustling in quickly. Eloise (shaking hands). So glad to find you in. (Lulu goes DOWN R. Muriel down l.) Oh, how do you do, girls! I want to see you very especially, Mr. Bronson. Hugh (r. c). Indeed! A private matter? Eloise. Not exactly. Muriel. Don't ask us to go before Mr. Bronson has given us his ultimatum. Eloise (to Muriel). Well, my business is merely a ques- tion. (To Hugh) The Foreign Mission Society meets at my house Monday evening, and I want to know if you won't be the guest of honor and make an address? Lulu. How nice that would be! Hugh. Indeed it will give me great pleasure to do so. Eloise. I am so pleased, — in fact, positively flattered. (Ogling him) You will come at seven- fifteen sharp, will you? Hugh (takes out memorandum hook and writes). Seven- fifteen sharp. Eloise. And now I'll run away and let you girls monopolize this poor, tired man. Good-bye, girls! (Goes up. Looks sen- timentally at Bronson) Good-bye! [EXIT c. d. Lulu. (r. c). Why, the Foreign Mission Society begins at seven-forty-five. (Bronson goes down r.) Muriel. Beware, beware, Mr. Bronson! If Eloise Feather- ton has a half hour tete-a-tete with you, you are in danger of a suit for breach of promise. 'HxiGTL (laughing). You don't mean it? Perhaps I am already engaged. Lulu (disappointedly). Oh, really? 18 Miss Neptune. Hugh. Oh, I am not committing myself. I don't believe in taking the general public into my private confidence, you know. MuKiEL ( crosses e. ) . Well, if you aren't going to tell us your secrets, perhaps you will at least give us an answer and we will leave you to finish your work. Hugh. Your call has been an oasis in a desert of labor. Please interrupt me again, and you may count on me at the Sunday School to-morrow. Lulu, Oh, thank you. (Goes up stage) MuEiEL, It is awfully good of you. We will promise to be on our best behavior. (Goes up) Hugh (up c). It will be more of an ordeal than taking my ordination test, but I am "game." (Bell rings) MuEiEL. You seem to be receiving to-night. Hugh. You and Miss Marsh had better act as a committee and assist me. Lulu. Oh, no. (Drawing hack) MUEIEL. Oh, yes. (Takes Lulu's arm, crosses L. and moves DOWN a little) Hugh (opens c. d.). Come right in, Miss Boardman. ENTER Jane c. d. Jane. Good evening. (To girls) Oh, hello! MuEiEL. We are just going. Mr. Bronson is besieged by females this evening. Jane. Well, I have " Bearded the lion in his den " for an altruistic purpose. (Goes r. Hugh up c.) MuEiEL. Our motives, and I fear those of Miss Featherton, were not on such a high moral plane. Lulu (at door). We will not detain you any longer. MuEiEL. No, we will leave "The Lion and the Mouse." (Laughs) MUEIEL I ^^^'^ ^isht. Jane ^ Hugh [ ^^^^ night. (Hugh goes down c.) Jane (sits in chair hy fireplace) Mine is an errand of mercy, Mr. Bronson. Hugh. Yes? Jane. I have been aggressive enough to seek your influence with Mr. Eliott in Jerry's behalf. Hugh (sitting in desk chair). My sympathies are already enlisted for Jerry, Miss Neptune. 19 Jane. That's good. Well, all I want for him is fair play. Hugh. And you shall have it, if my influence counts for anything. I am expecting Mr. Elliot this evening to discuss the matter. Jane (rising). Thank you so much. (Looks at mantel) Jerry is is an honest old dear, and I feel sure he did not steal that pocket-book. Hugh. The evidence is only circumstantial so far. Jane. That is just the point. (Picks up photo on mantel) Pardon me, but what a charming pose this girl has! May I examine it? (Goes down a little) Hugh. Certainly. (Aside. Annoyed) Confound it! (down c.) Jane. A pity one can't see her face. She is so graceful, I am sure she must be pretty. And what a pretty bathing suit too! I wish I could dive like that. (Teasingly) Your taste is excellent. Don't blush. I can't resist the temptation of look- ing on the back, '* Miss Neptune," the girl I left behind me, I suppose ? ( Smiling ) Hugh. Oh, she left me far behind when it came to diving. Jane. I am glad she is real and not just a fancy picture. But I fear the Grenville girls will be jealous of "Miss Nep- tujie." (Replaces pJioto.) Hugh. You are "rigging" me, Miss Boardman. (Aside) Hang her curiosity! (down e.) Jane. I see where the female population of Grenville will begin to take swimming lessons. Hugh. I hope I may be chosen as teacher. Jane (shakes her finger at him). What would "Miss Nep- tune" think of that speech? (Crosses l.) It would be her turn to be jealous. Hugh. Not at all. (r.) " Miss Neptune " and I are not even friends. Jane. Dear me, what a relief! I shall tell your adorers that there Is still hope. (Goes up l.) Hugh. You are kind. But seriously, I hope to prove one kind of a life preserver here, although not on the sea of matri- mony. Jane (seriously). Well, I do not doubt you will succeed in your work. (At door) Thanks for your encouragement (Laughs) about Jerry, I mean. Good night. Hugh. Good night, Miss Boardman. (EXIT Jane c. d. Hugh goes down e., places photo, on desk. Lights pipe). Yes my little water nymph, we are not even friends because I 2Q Miss Neptune. shall always be your lover, even though our paths may never cross again. (Sighs) I dare say I am a sentimental idiot, but next summer I shall resume my search. I shall never rest until I have found you, until I have learned if you are free. (Bell rings) Good night little sweetheart. (Puts photo, in drawer) I must stop dreaming now. (Opens c. d.) ENTER Elliot c. d., and crosses to fireplace. Hugh. Good evening, Mr. Elliot. Elliot. How are you, Mr, Bronson? Hugh. Very curious as to the pocket-book mystery. Elliot. Jerry has been to see you? (Sits r.) Hugh (sits l.). Yes, and I cannot help feeling he is inno- cent. Elliot. Well, that remains to be proved. Did he get you to witness his deposition? Hugh. Yes, I have it here. (Goes to desk) Elliot. Ah, that's good. I am very anxious to see it. (Crosses l. of desk) Hugh (hands it to Elliot). It is rather a curiosity. Elliot. When I was calling on Mrs. Richman this afternoon she informed me that her gold purse had been returned yes- terday empty. Hugh. Indeed ! Elliot ( taking paper from pocket ) . And I brought the wrap- ping paper here to compare the handwriting. Hugh. This is growing more interesting. Elliot (comparing writing). I cannot find the slightest resemblance, can you? (Handing him paper) Hugh. None whatever. (Returning paper) Elliot. And yet that handwriting looks familiar. I won- der if he got somebody to address it? Hugh. How much was stolen? Elliot. Two tens and a five and fifty-two cents in cash. Hugh (after a pause). Ah, I think I have a clue. We will have Sherlock Holmes out-Sherlocked ! Elliot. What is it? Hugh. Read this letter from Milton of the Board of Foreign Missions. (Elliot takes and reads letter) Elliot. Hum! Twenty-five dollars and fifty-two cents. That is quite a coincidence. You don't suppose Jerry had a twinge of conscience, and disposed of the money in that way, do you? Miss Heptune. ^ 21 Hugh {smiling). My dear Elliot, our friend Jerry, accord- ing to his own testimony a short while ago, is not what one would call sympathetic with the cause of foreign missions. Besides, I think you and I are on the wrong track. Elliot (crosses r. and sits). Perhaps we are. But although there seems to be a connection between the amount stolen and the contribution from Grenville, I cannot unravel the skein. Hugh. My dear fellow ! Have you never heard of religious fanaticism ? Elliot. Why, yes. Hugh. Well, I believe a religious fanatic in this congre- gation has done this thing. You know a person can go to ex- cess in religion — can make it a form of dissipation, and there lies the solution of the mystery, I believe. Elliot. You mean to say that in the desire to further th3' interests of Christianity, a religious person could actually com- mit a crime to accomplish his purpose? Hugh. I do. It sounds paradoxical, but it is not unprece- dented. The question now is, who is the guilty person? Elliot (puzzled). This psychological revelation has made chaos of my brain. I cannot imagine who this socialistic evan- gelist could be. (Bell rings) Hugh. Excuse me. (Goes to c. d. Aside). I guess it's time to adjust that handkerchief. ENTER Mrs. Blunt and Margaret, c. d. Hugh (to visitors). How do you do? Mrs. B. 1 ^ ^ evening. Margaret y Mrs. B. Margaret escorted me, as I feared I might take an- other tumble. Well, my pride has taken a tumble, and that is why I am here to talk to you for a few moments, if I may. Hugh. Certainly. Won't you be seated? (Mrs. B. Sits l.) Elliot. Permit me to retire. [EXIT l. d. Margaret (folloiving Elliot). And me also. [EXIT l. d. Mrs. B. Very well. It doesn't matter. (Weeps. Hugh sits l. of Mrs. Blunt) I have a confession to make, Mr. Bronson, which is hard for me, seein' as I have always been what you might call a pillar of the church. Hugh. Do not make it, Mrs. Blunt. I think I know the cause of your distress. Mrs. B. (changed tone). Oh, thank goodness, you do, sir, ^2 Hiss Neptune. and I won't have to make the confession after all. Then you know that I, who have always been a good christian woman, have performed a very wicked act. Hugh. Yes, but I believe that you did not realize what you were doing. Mrs. B. Indeed I did not. (Weeps) But now, not only I, but Grenville, will realize it, and I, the front pillar of the church will be lowered to the ground — disgraced. Hugh. Oh, no ! Mrs. B. {change of tone). But, my Patience! You must be a clever man to find out what I had done. Why did you sus- pect a real pious christian like me? Hugh. From a few facts, and a fair knowledge of human nature. You were carried away with your enthusiasm, and in your feverish zeal mistook wrong for right. Mrs. B. That is just what happened. But I broke the eighth commandment to help the blessed cause. ( Weeps ) Will I ever be forgiven? Hugh. Your heart will answer that in the affirmative, and I think there is no doubt there can be a quiet adjustment of this mistake inside of the church. Mrs. B. You are right about knowin' that the dear Lord will forgive me (Weeps) but (Sharply) you are all wrong about anything bein' kept quiet in Grenville. Hugh. I should like to hear your motive in your own words. Mrs. B. (dramatically). Queen Marie said that when she died, they would find " Calais " written across her heart and likewise " foreign missions " is engraved on mine. Hugh. Such devotion does you credit, I am sure. Mrs. B. I opened the pocket-book, and knowin' what a stingy woman Mrs. Richman was, never subscribin' to anything, I made up my mind I would send the money to Mr. Milton, and she would be doin' good without a-knowin' of it. Hugh. I see. Mrs. B. But while she was doing good without a-knowin' of it, I was doing bad without a-knowin' of it. Oh, deary me! How can I face that woman? (Telephone rings. Aside) I wonder if that is the constable? Hugh (answering telephone). Hello! Yes, yes, Mr. Elliot is here. Yes, Mrs. Richman, I will call him. Hold the wire, please. (Goes l. d., calling). Mr. Elliot. Come in, Miss Cam- eron. ENTER Mr. Elliot and Margabet l. d. Miss Neptune. M Elliot. Yes? Hugh. Mrs. Richman would like to talk to you on the tele- phone. Elliot. Oh, thank you! (Crosses Vi., Maegaeet f/oes «i5$5;J$^^ MILITARY PLAYS 25 CENTS EACH M. r. BX THE ENEMY'S HAND. 4 Acts; 2 hours 10 4 EDWARDS, THE SPY. 5 Acts; 2i^ hours 10 4 PRISONER OF ANDERSON VILLE. 4 Acts; 214 hours.. 10 4 CAPTAIN DICK. 3 Acts; li^ hours 9 6 ISABEL., THE PEARL OP CUBA. 4 Acts; 2 hours 9 3 LITTLE SAVAGE. 3 Acts; 2 hours; 1 Stage Setting. 4 4 BY FORCE OP IMPULSE. (15 cents.) 5 Acts; 2^ hours 9 3 BETWEEN TWO FIRES. (15 cents.) 3 Acts; 2 hours 8 3 RURAL PLAYS 25 CENTS EACH MAN PROM MAINE. 5 Acts; 2^ hours 9 3 AMONG THE BERKSHIRES. 3 Acts; 2J4 hours 8 4 OAK FARM. 3 Acts; 21^ hours; 1 Stage Setting 7 4 GREAT TVINTERSON MINE. 3 Acts; 2 hours 6 4 SQUIRE THOMPKINS' DAUGHTER. 5 Acts; 2]4 hours 5 2 T^HEN A MAN'S SINGLE. 3 Acts; 2 hours 4 4 PROM PUNKIN RIDGE. (15 cents.) 1 Act; Ihour... 6 3 LETTER FROM HOME. (15 cents.) 1 Act; 25 minutes 1 1 ENTERTAINMENTS 25 CENTS EACH AUNT DINAH'S QUILTING PARTY. 1 Scene 5 11 BACHELOR MAIDS' REUNION. 1 Scene 2 30 IN THE FERRY HOUSE. 1 Scene; IJ^ hours 19 1.5 JAPANESE WEDDING. 1 Scene; 1 hour 3 10 MATRIMONIAL EXCHANGE. 2 Acts; 2 hours 6 9 OLD PLANTATION NIGHT. 1 Scene; 1^ hours 4 4 YE VILLAGE SKEWL OF LONG AGO. 1 Scene. 13 13 FAMILIAR FACES OF A FUNNY FAMILY 8 11 JOLLY BACHELORS. Motion Song or Recitation 11 CHRISTMAS MEDLEY. 30 minutes 15 14 EASTER TIDINGS. 20 minutes 8 BUNCH OF ROSES. (15 cents.) 1 Act; li^ hours 1 13 OVER THE GARDEN WALL. (15 cents)... II DICK & FITZGERALD, Publishers, 18 Ann Street, N.Y. $sgs$sss$sss$$$ssss$$ss$^s$$$s$sss$s§ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 401 087 COMEDIES AND 25 CENTS EACH M. V. BREAKING HIS BON^DS. 4 Acts; 2 hours 6 3 BUTTERNUT'S BRIDE. 3 Acts; 2i^ hours 11 6 COIiLiEGE CHUMS. 3 Acts; 2 hours; 1 Stage Setting 9 3 COUNT OF NO ACCOUNT. 3 Acts; SJ^ hours 9 4 DEACON. 5 Acts; 21^ hours 8 6 DELEGATES FROM DEIsT^ER. 2 Acts; 45 minutes 3 10 DOCTOR BY COURTESY. 3 Acts; 2 hours 6 5 EASTSIDERS, Tlie. 3 Acts; 2 hours; 1 Stage Setting 8 4 ESCAPED FROM THE LAW. 5 Acts; 2 hours 7 4 GIRIi FROM PORTO RICO. 3 Acts; 2^ hours 5 3 GYPSY QUEEN. 4 Acts; 23^ hours 5 3 IN THE ABSENCE OF SUSAN; 3 Acts; 1^ hours 4 6 JAILBIRD. 5 Acts; 21^ hours...., , 6 3 JOSIAH'S COURTSHIP. 4 Acts; 2 hours.... 7 4 MY LADY DARRELL. 4 Acts; 2^ hours 9 6 MY UNCLE FROM INDIA. 4 Acts; 2J^ hours. 13 4 NEXT DOOR. 3 Acts; 2 hours 6 4 PHYLLIS'S INHERITANCE. 3Acts; 2hourH 6 9 REGULAR FLIRT. 3 Acts; 2 hours 4 4 ROGUE'S LUCK. 3 Acts; 8 hours 5 3 SQUIRE'S STRATAGEM. 5 Acts; 2}^ hours 6 4 STEEL KING. 4 Acts; 2J^ hours 5 3 WHAT'S NEXT? 3 Acts; 23^ hours., 7 4 WHITE LIE. 4Act8; 2i^ hours 4 8 1. J7 0^ WESTERN PLAYS 25 CENTS EACH ROCKY FORD. 4 Acts; 2 hours GOLDEN GULCH. 3 Acts; 2^ hours 11 RED ROSETTE. 3Acts;2hours MISS MOSHER OF COLORADO. 4 Acts; 2i^ hours... 5 STUBBORN MOTOR CAR. 3 Acts; 2 hours; 1 Stage Setting 7 CRAWFORD'S CLAIM. (15 cents.) 3 Acts; 2^ hours. DICK & FITZGERALD, Publishers, 18 Ann Street, N. Y.