PR5"<^\7 FA- Always order *^ DE WITT^S '' Acting- Plays. PRICK 15 CENTS. «>^,4- ^^^^fâii PR 5617 .P4 1884 -^ ^^'^rM'^ Copy 1 pE WITT'S ACTING PLAYS. 1^/"^ & Penmark Abbey. IN TWO ACTS. BY , AVILLIAM MAKEPEACE THACKERAY. TOGETHER WITH A Description of tlie Costumes— Cat^t of the Characters— Entrances :uul Exitt^— Kelative Posiiions of the Performers on the Stage— and the whole of the Stage Business. All Acting Mights Reserved. ^ DE WITT. PUBLISHER, ^^fS^ -2Vo. S3 Mose Street. NOW READY 3 PLAYÎ 'S Plots, ' tion, J ^- A CONIPIETE DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE OF DE WIH'S ACTINB AYS, AND DE WITT'S ETHIOPIAN AND COMIC DRAMAS, containing Costume, Scenery, Time of Representation, and every other informa- mailed free and post-paid. DE T^ITT'S ETHIOPIAN AW COMIC DRAMA. Nothing BO thorougti and complete ia the way cf Ethiopian and Comic Dramas has ever been printed as those that appear in the following list. Not only are the plots excellent, the characters droll, the incidents funny, the language humorous, but all the situations,^by-play, positions, pantomimic business, scenery, and tricks are so plainly set down and clearly explained that the merest novice could put any of them on the stage. Included in this Catalogue are all the most laughable and efifective pieces of their class ever produced. =*^^* In ordering please copy the figures at the commencement of each piece, which indicate the number of the ijiece in *' De Witt's Ethiopian akd Comic Dkama." jg®= Any of the following Plays sent, postage free, ou receipt of i^rice— Fifteen Cents each. je^ The figure following tho name of the Play denotes the number of Acts, figures in the columns indicate tho number of characters— M. male; F. female. The 141. 73. 107. 113. 133. 43. 42. 79. 40. 10. 11. 146. 110. 126. 127. 128. 120. 78. M. r. Absent Minded, Ethiopian farce, 1 act 3 1 African Box, burlesquQ. 2 eceucs. . . C African us Bluebeard, musical Ethi- opian burlesque, 1 scene G 2 Ambition, farce, 2 scenes 7 Awful Plot (An) Ethiopian farce, la. 3 1 Baby Elephant, sketch, 2 scenes.. . . 7 1 Bad" Whiskey, Irish sketch, 1 Bceiic. 2 1 Barney's Courtship, musical inter- hide. lact 1 2 Big Mistake, sketch, 1 scene 4 Black Chap from Whitechapel, Ne- gro piece 4 Black Chemist, sketch, 1 scene 3 Black-Ev'd William, sketch, 2 scenes 4 1 Black Forrest (The),Ethiopiau farce, lact 2 1 Black Magician (De),Ethiopian com- icality 4 2 Black Statue (The), Negro farce 4 2 Blinks and Jinks, Ethiopian sketch. 3 1 Bobolino, the Black Bandit, Ethio- pian musical farce, 1 act 2 1 Body Snatchers (The), Negro sketch, 2 scenes 3 1 Bogus Indian, sketch, 4 scenes 5 2 Bogus Talking Machine (The), farce, 1 scene 4 Bruised and Cured, sketch, 1 scene. 2 Charge of the Hash Brigade, comic Irish musical sketch 2 2 Christmas Eve in the South, Ethio- pian farce, 1 act 6 2 Coal Heaver's Ilevenge,Negro sketch, 1 scene ... 6 Conxing Man (The), Ethiopian sketch, 2 scenes 3 1 Cremation, sketcli, 2 scenes 8 1 Crowded Hotel (Tlie), sketch, 1 sc. 4 1 Cupid's Frolics, sketch. 1 scene 5 1 Daguerreotypes, sketch, 1 scene 3 Damon and Pythias, builesque, 2 sc. 5 1 Darkey's Stratagem, sketch, 1 scene 3 1 Darkey Sleep Walker (The), Ethio- pian sketch, 1 scene .V. . 3 1 124. 111. 139. 50. C4. 95. 07. 4. 135. 93. 52. 25. 51. 152. 106. 31. 20. 82. 130. 86. 70. 61. 142. 23. 118. 3. 48. 68, 1.50. 71. 123 Deaf as a Post, Ethiopian sketch 2 Deeds of Darkness, Ethiopian ex- travaganza, 1 act 6 1 Desperate Situation (A), farce, 1 sc. 5 2 Draft (The), sketch, 2 scenes 6 Dutchman's Ghost, 1 scene 4 1 Dutch Justice, laughable sketch, 1 scene 11 Editor's Trouble.s, farce, 1 scene.. . 6 Eh ? What is it ? sketch 4 1 Election Day, Ethiopian farce, 2 sc. 6 1 Elopement (The), farce, 2 scenes. . . 4 1 Excise Trials, sketch, 1 scene 10 1 Fellow that Looks like Me, inter- lude, 1 scene 2 1 Fir.st Night (The), Dutch farce, 1 act 4 2 Fisherman's Luck, sketch, 1 scene. 2 Fun in a Cooper's Shop, Ethiopian sketch 6 Gambrinus, King of Lager Beer, Ethiopian burlesque, 2 scenes 8 1 German Emigrant (The), sketch, Isc. 2 2 Getting Square on the Call Boy, sketch, 1 scene 3 Ghost (The). Sketch, 1 act 2 Ghost in a PawTi Shop, sketch. 1 so. 4 Glycerine Oil, sketch, 2 scenes 3 Going tor the Cup, interlude 4 Good Night's Rest, sketch, 1 scene. 3 Go aud get Tight, Ethiopian sketch, 1 scene 6 _ Gripsack, sketch, 1 scene 3 Guide to the Stage, sketch 3 Hapny Couple, 1 scene 2 1 Happy Uncle Rufus, Ethiopian mu- sical sketch, 1 scciie 1 1 Hard Times, extra.vagar.za. 1 seme. 5 1 Helen's Funny Babies, burlesque. 1 act 6 Hemmed In. sketch 3 1 High Jack, the Heeler, sketch, 1 BC. 6 Hippotheatron, sl.etch. 9 How to Pay the Rent, farce. 1 scene 6 In and Out, sketch. 1 sceiu- 2 Intelligence Oiffice (The), Ethiopian sketch, 1 scene 2 1 i^"SPECIAL NOTICE.— This plaj' is duly protected by copyright. Managers and Actors wishing to produce the same must apply to the Publisher. Amateur Societies may produce the Play without permission. Never Before in Englisii. Penmark Abbey. A NAUTICAL MELODRAMA, IN THREE ACTS. BY WILLIAM MAKEPEACE THACKERAY.* Translated from the Original French^ BY HENEY LLEWELLYN WILLIAMS. TOGETHER WITH A DESCRIPTION OF THE COSTUMES CAST OF THE CHARACTERS ENTRANCES AND EXITS RELATIVE POSITIONS OF THE PERFORMERS ON THE STAGE, AND THE WHOLE OF THE STAGE BUSINESS. ALL ACTING RIGHTS RESERVED. * Note.— After W. M. Thackeray had lost his patrimony in the fruitless attempt to found the London Constitutional newspaper, he returned to Pans, where he had a host of friends among literary and artistic devotees, chiefly of the Eomantiqiies school. He sought to support himself by pen and pencil ; but his handling of the latter was mediocre, and he was driven to employ the other implement to carve oiit fortune. Paris has always been distinguished for three remarkable classes ; printers, Î)ublishers and theatrical managers, who afford a channel for risino; talent, particu- arly if their own vanity be flattered. Hence. Thackeray at once found an opening for the Melodrama (much in the vein of Douglas Jerrold's naval pieces) at the minor theatre of the St. Antoine Gate, in the most popular quarter, whose director, PieiTe Toumemine. a. Bohemian of letters in a mild way, would put anything on his little stage, on condition that he would be named as the author's co-worker. But the reader will see that nothing at all of a foreign hand interpolated lines in a work so full of English spirit, fervent love of 'longshore life, and •péVfectry pure love, filial and maidenly; it is to be regretted, therefore, that Thacke'ray found no encourage, ment in England as a playwright, when he obtained his due position. But, until Mr. Boueicault broke the fetters, an English dramatist was the London managers ill fed, contemned slave. — [The Translator. JAN 22 :, NEW YORK^f»'*»F^^;,v,- DE WITT, PUBLISHER, No. 33 Rose Street. Copyright, 1884, by A. T. B. Dk Witt. PENMARK ABBEY. '^X^^''' CAST OF CHARACTERS. tK^K ^'i Jaques Perquin, formerly a privateersman, not to say pirate, Captain in the Royal Navy, a young fisherman, Recorder of Douanienez, and confi dential man to Meriadac, a rich landholder and Mayor of the Township, first-class boy in the preventive service, his uncle, a coastguardsman, a smuggler, known as Perquin's daughter, fishermen. Theatre de la Porte St. Antoine Paris, Feb. 1st, 1840. MONKTON, Caleb, Gkiffild, Meriadac, "Squirrel," Belgrip, Tom, Alice, Squividan, > Treffagel, 5 Casleur, > FiLEX. < M. David. " Vorbel. " Edmond. Savigny, " Charles, " Calonna, " Treveys, Heavy Lead. Character. Juv. Lead. Old Man. 2d Old Man. Low Comedy. 2d Heavv Marcliaisse. Resp. Utility. Mdlle Marie, Lead. coastguards. Utility. Fishermen and Fishergirls, Smugglers, Custom House Officers Coast- GUARDSMEN, VILLAGERS. SCENERY. setting amid approaching storm ; dark at finale. ' grooves. Sun I I A. A. -A. I I A. 3dG. 2dG. Tavern Front *E B. 1st G. of*?"ckf ' TH'?etSfi?n Î" '^" ^^'*^T" \^'^^^^ ^î«t^'^«^' f^^l 0Î all shapes i^-Hni PENMARK ABBEY. 3da. Ob. O B. . . Ob. Ob. c. A.^ D. J2dG. OB. . Ob. ^ 1st. G. L OB. On flat, view of the stormy sea among foam-crested rocks, and the coast trending off to both sides. A. a set old weeping- willow, witli fragments of carved masonry at its base ; the upper portion of a ruined gallery and pulpit stairs lead to it cocamg from L. u. E., bv which an entrance is made ; a stone seat at the tree, with monster carved heads. B. B. B., more or less ruined pillars of a cloister, roofless. iv>' grown, high weeds and grass at the base, and plants in crannies. C. C. C, set profile rocks. Heaps of fallen stones. D. D., fallen stones at base of the massive columns, which are the wings. Sky sinks and borders of broken arches. Act 3ed.— No change. Hall in Meriadec's house, in 3rd grooves. Doors R. and L. 1 E. : L. 2 or 3 E. large bav window, curtained, opening on a balcony over the rocks by the sea. Folding-doors, c. in f., open on a corridor. Table, chairs. Early day. COSTUMES. Period of 1830 — 40. French and English much the same thing for the superior characters ; and Breton for the Villagers and Seamen. Perquin.— Breton fisherman's dress ; sailor's save that the breeches are baggy like the smugglers in "Black-Eyed Susan ;" woolen cap or glazed hat. MONKTOK. — Gentleman's suit ; cane. Caleb.— Like Perquin ; same as comic young hero in "Chimes of Normandy;" a pea-jacket. Griffild.— Brown and black suit ; wig, grey ; face lined to express cunning and prudence; snuff-box. Meriadec— Country gentleman's dress ; cane. Squirrel.— French sailor, loose trousers, red sash round waist, blue jacket with crown-and-anchor buttons ; around low-crowned liat,gilt letters "H(is) M(ajes- ty's P(reventive) S(ervice)" on blue ribbon round hat; cutlass, pair of pistols; shoes. Belgrip.— Blue suit, gilt buttons, weapons, bearded round; sash; belts; boots, cap. Treffagel and Squividan, same as Caleb. Tom.— Smuggler's dress ; like Raikes, in " Black-Eyed Susan." Smugglers, like Tom; Peasants. Breton dress; Fishermen, like Caleb; Two Footmen in plain livery ; Coastguards, like Squirrel. Alice. — Pretty peasant attire ; very little jewelry. Pxasant Girls and Fisher Lassies, fanaiful Br«toQ. 4 PENMARK ABBEY. SYJVOPSIS. It is St. Anne's, a gala day at the fishing village, near the ruins of Penmark Abbej^ MoiSKTON. an English naval captain, and a friend of Mayor Meriadec, has just arrived and contributed funds. Perquin, the inn-keeper, has a lovely daughter Alice. She is loved by Caleb, a young fisherman, but her avaricious father will not consent to the marriage unless Caleb can give three thousand francs. This is an utter impossibility. The mirth, music and dancing goes on apace. To a part of the people it is known that Perquin is a smtiggler. and has been worse. While a young fellow, Squirrel, ; muses himself and the company wittily at the expense of Squividan, Meriadec is gravely telling INIonkton of the suicides and murders, which have made the Abbey shunned at night. Monkton wagers that he could find a girl even, that would dare all dangers, and return with a bough of a haunted willow tree. Meriadec accepts the bet, and Monkton says he will give three thousand francs, if he wins, to the person obtaining the branch. Alice jumps at the chance to get the coveted dowry. The amusements go on ; and at their height Alice, stai-ts, spite of a furious storm, threatening. In the next act Caleb is moving cautiously about the Abbey grounds by dim light from a lantern. He throws off coat and hat, as he drops on a'ruined stone seat, and argues with himself that nothing would have induced him to consent to aid Perquin, but his love for Alice. After a pistol shot is heard, Perquin enters, with pistol in hand. A violent altercation takes place between Perquin, who has slain Belgrip, and the startled Caleb. The latter consents, most reluctantly, to aid. Perquin in throwing the body of Bflgrip over into the sea ; and in going off takes his coat ; but leaves his hat, Alice meets them, leaning over the body, and though, at first she faints with hoiTor; on recovering she determines to denounce the murderers. As she leans swooningly against a pillar, the custom house officers and SQUiRReL enter; and Caleb approaches for his hat. As Squirrel knows him, he is not suspected, and goes off. Perquin runs up to him, and forciblj' hauls him off, through a secret gallery. Meriadec and Monkton arrive at the Abbey in search of Alice, and just after Belgrip's body is brought on, a scream is heard, and Monkton receives Alice in his arms. She tells what she has seen and hands the hat she has found, In it is the knot of ribbons she herself had pinned in Caleb's. She faints. In the third act Perquin learns that Captain Monkton is at hand. An examin- ation takes place. Caleb is accused, and as he acknowledges that he helped remove Belgrip'.s body, and Mill not reveal the name of the murderer, even Alice is forced to give liim up. But Perquin, reveals to Monkton that he, himself, was the real murderer, and also informs M. that Alice is his (M's.) daughter, and explains why and how he gained possession of her. Perquin is shot, by Tom, while escaping. Caleb's innocence is proven; and Captain Monkton places the hand of Alice in that of Caleb. TIME OF PLAYING— TWO HOURS. PHOPFRTIES. Act "ist. — Purse of coin ; decorations, floral, and other rustic notions : jug and bottle of -wine, glasses ; cross and locket on necklace for Alice ; basket of different colored rosettes, with pins attached; colored lights to bum, L. 1. E. ; lightning, thunder. Act 2nd.— TYmnder, lightning, rain; lanterns, torches, paper in wallet; twig of willow-tree to break off. Act 3j"d.— Writing materials, quills, sand ; lamps ; pocket book and memorand am book with pencil for Monkton ; pistol to shoot; the locket on Alice's neck to open. STAGE DIRECTIONS. R. means Right of Stage, facing the Audience ; L. Left ; C. Centre ; R. C. Right of Centre ; L. C. Left of Centre. D. F. Door in the Flat, or Scene running across the back of the stage ; C. D. F. Centre Door in the Flat ; R. D. F. Right Door in the Flat; L. D. F. Left door in the Flat; R. D. Right Door; L. D. Left Door; 1 E. First Entrance ; 2 E. Second Entrance ; U. E. Upper Entrance ; 1, 2 or 3 G. First, Second or Third Groove. R. R. C. C. L. C. L. I^^The reader is supposed to be upon the stage facing the audience. PENMARK ABBEY. ACT I. — Tavern of St. Anne, for Fishermen, at Douarneriez, hruumy. Discover Fishermen, and Villagers of hath sexes, old and young, completing the decorations on the ham L., around a plas- ter statue of St. Anne. Religious music, pianissimo. MusiCf lively. Enter The Squirrel, l. 1 e., skipping. Squividan. Hillo! here comes the Squirrel! All. (joyously) The Squirrel! hurrah! Squirrel. Ha, ha! I've finished before ye all ! (R. c.) Squiv. So you ought ! Squirrel. 'What! build an orchestra ? Treffagel. Oh, lay two planks on a couple of barrels! Squirrel. But I had to get the planks — out of Miser Pegooren's yard, and he's no sloth ! and the dust out of the barrels all but choked me! (c.) However, it comes into my day's work to sliift barrels — as I am a deputy-revenue-ofificer, and we have to poke our noses into ev- ery cask ! it is only when they are butter and wine that the probe is worth licking. Squiv. Bah! It's all profit in your honorable calling, (l. c.) Squirrel. All profit ? Do you reckon the drubbing and mauling the smugglers give us as profit ? to say nothing of pistol-shots ? Treff. What's that to you? you never touch the soup when there is any peppering. Squirrel. Right you are! When there is any dangerous expedi- tion on, I am a rare chap — that is, I make myself scarce. {Laughs.) Squiv. Then this explains why you are so kind as to help us on with the saint's festival ! There's a rub with the free-traders ! (using a hammer to nail up a trailing hough, and hits Squirrel.) Squirrel. You have — oh! hit it! (ruhs his head) Do I make a concealment of it ? Now you will say it is " funk." All. Aye, aye! Squirrel. No, it's prudence! (hrings All doir^i c. f.) I tell you what : there is no little matter in question, if what I have heard is true. We of the preventive service have got the job to poimce upon a score — no, two score — bah, more like two hundred smugglers, who will fight like five hundred devils, as soon as they land their goods among the rocks at Penmark Point, near the Old ATjbey Ruins. I cal- culate I should have sixty-five devils to tackle single-handed — you grin, but I'd like to see any of you tackling three-score-and-a-half of (5 PENMARK ABBEY. sea-devils. Grand ! who says it's grand ? let him go to all the devils ! Let my unîcle Belgrip go — he is the revenue-guards lieutenant, and besides his rank, the rankest beggar for bravery ever you saw — I grant that ; but I am not brave — and I am not entitled to a lieuten- ant's pension if I am brained. Treff. Only the widow gets the pension, ass. Squirrel. I have no widow, goose. Squiv. You'll never get a wife, being such a coward. All the women. No, no, no ! (laugh.) Squirrel. Why, you would all be glad to marry me ! nobody but a coward is afraid of a woman, so they make the true sort of liusbands. Squiv. What do you mean by that? {threatens Squirrel.) Squirrel. Nothing! only I saw Ma'am Squividan at the Stone Cross, looking for you, and if you are found here hanging up flags with that coquette Trifina — (slaps one hand on the other loudly) — you tumble ? or rather you will tumble. All (laugh.) Ha, ha! Squiv. (sullenhj) If I thought you — Squirrel. Oh, I don't mean anything. I should go round by the priest's meadow, and be indoors before her, that's all. (follows Squiv- idan.) If the old eat comes and only sees me a-dancing with Trifine, it will look serener, wont it, eh ? Squiv. (shaking his fists.) I'll make you look sea-green, you oaf! (pushes Squirrel, and runs off, l. u. e.) Ahh (laugh.) Ha, ha! Sqirrel (comes down, cliuclcs a fisher-girl under the chin.) — Sea- green for serene! He's had no learning, poor clown. Treff. I'm rather of your way o' thinking. Why should those get their sconces cracked who do not care whether the State wins or loses by the brandy and tobacco. Squirrel. I like to fill my pipe cheap. The Men. Aye! Treff. I'll wager that among those men that you paint so black, there are some good enough fellows, who only joined the crew because the pilchards shun our coast. Mayor Mariadec is very kind, but we are not at all lucky here, in Douarnenez, and the man that depends on his net is not sure of a full mouth every day. Squirrel, (aside.) What do I learn? Why the lot o' them are tainted with the same plague! I've put my foot into it, and am lucky to get it out without losing a toe. (Aloud.) Oh, if you are quite through over there, why not have a glass, at my expense? Treff. I don't mind, for one! The Squirrel is a good sort, mates. All conid to Squirrel and slap his back, shake hands, etc. The Women go up, chatting. Squirrel, (nervonsh/.) And the fishers are a sort of good sort, too. I am pi'oud to be their friend. (Strikes table R.) House, there! hal- loa! wine and tumblers! Let me see, the ladies do not drink? (The Women toss their heads offended) Then I invite you to take (they look at him smiling) — your hook. Heave, cut and run— scape ! (throws up his hands like driving poultry) Shoo! women and idlers, away! (A^.Tfi»»i Women l. u. e. laughing.) Now, then, Jacques, look alive Witli the liquor ! All (banging table.) The liquors ahoy! Enter Alice, r. d. All salute respectfully. PENMAEK ABBEY. 7 Alice. What a dreadful racket .' Squirrel {softlij.) The pretty Alice! {aloud.) I treat the crew! (Alice gets glasses and jug, and the fishers and villagers help themselves,) Bless us, this is not a gay dress; yet the dance comes on in an hour. (R. c.) Alice, (r. front.) I am not thinking of balls; I am in too much trouble ! Squirrel. If it is as great as you put others into, Lor' ! howl pity you. Is the sweetheart on the deep blue sea? Alice. No, but Father Jacques has refused to accept him as my betrothed, just because he cannot find three thousand miserable francs. Squirrel. Is that all ? In your place, and in Caleb's place, hanged if I wouldn't do without it. Treff. (drinl-ing) Without the money ? Squirrel. No ! without the papa's consent. Couldn't do it without the shiners. Alice. And worse than that — a graver cause for affliction — my father lias been out fishing these three days. Squirrel. And tlie wind a sea-breeze. Whew! that is queer. (aside. They idnk at one another.) Now, I wonder if the old chap does not fish other things than sardines ? He was a privateersman, and a pirate and smuggler are only variations in that trade. Alice. It was stormy la^'t night, and I am all of a tremble Treff. Pshaw! there's nothing to kill a fly for, Mamselle. Father Jacques is an old tar, wlio knows this here sea like the road to his own pocket ; and he swims, yea very like a shark. I'll wager what you like that if he were to split on a rock full ten leagues off thereaway, he'd turîi up here without as much water shipped as you put in your grog. Some squall took him round the point, and there he is beating up. Alice. You are very good, but last night when it was calm all over Audierne Bay. I could see nothing — nothing at all. Squirrel.' You never go for to say that you climbed the rocks to have a night peep at the Bay, Mamselle ? (gets a glass.) Alice. Why not? What liave I to fear? (They shake their heads) All the stuff you repeat because the Old Abbey Cemetery is there ? Squirrel. It is the stuff that I don't stomach like this stuff, (drinks) I would not go there. Treff. Nor I. All. Not I ; nor I ! Alice. What ! Not even if you were in my position ? Not even if your father — (tearfully) — then you do not know what it is to fear for the existence of your only parent, (wipes her eyes.) Squirrel. Come, come, little lady, never you worry. Whoever heard of any bad luck befalling us on St. Anne's day — a holiday, a jolly day ? Master Jacques will come in to the feed, if no sooner, which the Mayor bounteously provides, as safe and sound as a new tub Alice. I would I could hope as much. It would make me quite happy. You are right about our kind patron-saint; She will protect those we pray for sincerely ; and I have prayed so long and heartily. (sighs.) Enter Griffild,. r. u. e. He comes down R. c. They take off their hats to him. 8 PENl^AEK ABBEY. Griff. Eh, eh! What's that rubbish about praying ? Squirrel. Oh ! here we have Monsieur Griffild, the Mayor's right hand man, his facteetotum, as the landsmen say. Griff. My compliments, friends, on your set-out. (c. to AhiCE) Bless me is this a time for a pretty maid to weep her eyes red ? tut, tut ! {takes snuff.) Treff. bh, Monsieur, it is only her. dad's absence that frets the girl. Griff. Pooh I (asirZe) and frets me too, if the facts were out. I only hope that this run again, he will slip from under the heavy hand of that steadfast Belgrip. (aloud) It's all very proper to be daughterly and affectionate, my good girl, but there's no sense in undue fears— not a bit of sense ; not one bit ! Treff. Monsieur is quite right. All (murmur in approval) Right you are. Griff. But it would be downright grief to lose the trade you ought to do this blessed St. Anne's day— for you know very well we shall have a rich visitor — Treff. The Englishman ? Griff, (snuffing) The rich Englishman and naval officer, Monkton, who comes here once a year to mourn at the tombs he erected, one to the memory of his wife that was washed ashore yonder on Douarnenez strand, fifteen years or so ago, the day after the mighty storm which brought down the betterpartof what was standing of Penmark Abbey; and the other to the memory of his two daughters, infant victims of the same disaster, whom the sea will not place under its marble lid, I fear me, until all things give up their dead. There's no better man. Squirrel. You may well say so, M. Griffild ; for he's all the time betting— betting on this, or that, and everything that turns up, from the winning red card or the winning red nose of Pollar there, (a Fish- erman menaces Squirrel, while the others laugh.) Alice. Indeed he is good and generous; and he has been partic- ularly kind to me. Squirrel. These English are gallant! They never cross a woman in any way. Alice, (smiling) But they do! Squirrel. No! Alice. Yes! (holds up necMace pendant.) this is a cross he brought me over from London the last time. Squirrel. Oh! gold! I like that kind of crosses, (admires it.) ^ Griff. He came over yesterday. Now, mark how happy is his re- turn among us. Faithful to his mania for laying wagers on every imaginable topic, he put down fifteen hundred francs against the like sum of M. Meriadec's, that blow fair, blow foul, run currents with or counter, he would anchor his yacht in Audierne Bay, hour for hour, and day for day, twelve months after his weighing it in. Squirrel. Àh ! I hope he kept his word. Griff. To the minute ! Squirrel. Then we'll keep the money. Treff. You mean we'll spend it ; eh, Alice ? Griff. And he hands the stake over to ye all to celebrate the day becomingly. All. Hurrah! Griff. (Aside to Alice) You see that a good part of the British gold ought to jiugle on your bar. (riihs his hands. So, take my ad- vice, whilst you are awaiting good news of Father Jacques, and to PENMAEK ARBEY. 9 make him forget his fatigues when he does land, pile in the money, ha, ha! pile it in! To the ihoi.) Now, then, lads, who's coming along with me to finger the money I mentioned? All. Hurrah, for the Englishman! Long life to Mayor Meriadec! (going up.) Alice. It's good practical advice of yours, M. Griffild, and I shall bow to it. But if tlie tears I hide were in the wine I shall serve out, what a complaint there would be of the liquor being weakened by salt water, (.smiles.) Must one often smile when one is discontented? Ah, I am much too sad to wear smiles now. (turns R.) Griff, (aside) I agree with our pretty philosopher, for I have to don the false face of indifference while I am quaking lest my little venture may be falling at this anxious moment into the maw of those custom- house sharks! (going up.) Squirrel. You wont have to go a long voyage, mates, for there come Mayor Meriadec and the good Englishman. Music. Enter r. u. e. M. Meriadec mid Captain Monkton, arm-iyi- ami. They come down. All. Our Mayor forever! long life to your honor! Meriadec. That's all very hearty friends but I reckon I owe your congratulations to my noble friend, whose latest liberal act Griffild must have told you. (plaiifuJhj threatens Griffild ivith his cane.) Take then, the money which I have not regretfully lost and that given you, and let it be shared with those upon this list.* (Treffagel takes purse of coin and a paper.) Oh, Griffild, any tidings yet of the expedition against those smugglers ? (the Fishers divide the money ; one exits with the bag part full, L. u. e.) Griff. Not yet! But those poor, misguided men will catch it se- verely, if our bold Belgrip overtakes them. May Providence speed him (aside) so that he'll break his neck in his haste, (aloud) When your worship shall have cleared this point of Finistère of the scourge, the government will have nothing more to exact of you in claim of the Legion of Honor! Squirrel. That's handsomely put. (Alice goes out and in r. d., serving the Men, who drink profusely.) I wish every mother's son spoke his mind out as freely. Griff. My young friend, I am not so disinterested in my preaching as you suppose, perhaps; I am a commercial man, and as smuggling is detrimental to trade, I am bound to expi'ess my opinion that these rogues must be crushed out — ground out fine as — as — Monkton. (drily, taking a pinch o/Griffild's snuff) as the real Cuban snuff. Yes, the real thing! (reflectively) I'll wager that that never paid duty. (Griffild, horrified, puts box on table.) All. Ha, ha, ha! Meriadec. There are no takers! Monkton. Not of the bet. (the men empty Griffild's box among them, passing it along till it comes back whence they got it, and is placed there open and uptside down) Only takers of snuff! Meriadec (to Monkton.) Your laws even assimilate such rascals with highway robbers. Monkton. Yes; and you so stern and rigid, you approve. But o^- soft-hearted M. Griffild — he, now, I lay, does not want them hangc' Griff. N— n— no 1 (aside) Wken I Retire hang me^ indeed, if , choose England; 10 PENMARK ABBEY. Squirrel, (aside) What a funny man. Now, I imagined the Eng- lish were no jokers. MoNKTON. (seeing Alice r. ) Oh, here is my little pet. Upon my word, little no longer. I could believe you had grown by the head taller in one year; eh, Meriadec ? You need not blush so deep. Married, eh, married? Alice, (curtsei/inp) No, Captain. Meriadec. Biit she has made lier choice for it, one we all compli- ment her upon; for there is not an honester, handsomer fellow 'tween sea and sky than Caleb, the fisher. But this old curmudgeon Perquin cares little for sighs and oglings ; and the happiness of the two sweet- hearts depends on the little '^yes" which they cannot extract from him. Squirrel, (aside) Price of the ** yes" three thousand francs. I'd yes all my breath away for half. MoNKTON. Perquin? Meriadec. Father Jacques. MoNKTOX. Oh, Father Jacques. Let me 9ee: you spoke of the man before. I think you said he was an old Napoleonic soldier Meriadec. Sailor MoNKTON. Yes, yes ; a corsair, a privateersman ; You excited my curiosity, and thrice I tried to see him, but he was absent. It's my own craft, so I like to hear the yarns these rovers spin over their grog. This time, 1 hope to share a jorum with him. Alice. That will be a source of much pride to us, captain. Monkton. And when I drink and talk the old sea porcupine in good humor, never fear but I'll try to be useful to you. Meriadec. That's right, befriend the deserving lassie. You are go- ing on sixty Monkton. Only fifty-three, you old Methusalem! but ntiW (becom- ing grave) my daughters would not have been far from your age had they lived— ( ^/«'U6' away) not even their remains to sleep beside my beloved Matilda. Squirrel. ((le.) Ghosts of the monks — no, not in clouted shoes, (aloud) Now to distinguish ourselves. Let me show you how to catch — (sneezes.) Cableur. A cold ? Squirrel. No, iio~(sneezes.) smugglers! Lie close— and be awfully quiet. {T]ie Preventives conceal themselves.) Caleb, (climbs over rocks at back, and comes down looking for his hat. ) My hat's blown off! or, did I forget it here? (c.) and let me see if Alice — (to the tree.) Squirrel. One man — and we are many ; so there's no danger, (comes out, pistol and cutlass in hand.) Stand ! Caleb, (receding.) Heavens! discovered. Squirrel. For the second time, throw down your arms ! I shan't keep calling out surrender all night. Caleb, (aside.) The revenue officers, (aloud.) Hold hard! it's only Caleb the lisher, whose cottage is yonder by the flare. Squirrel. You've saved yourself from a terrible death. I was just going to let you have it. It's all right ; he's the man. Caleb. Coming through the ruins on my way home from the dance, my hat blew off. Have any of you seen a hat ? Squirrel. We are not after hats, so much as heads — heads with a price on 'em, eh, mates ? Caleb, (looking.) No signs of it; and Alice is gone. Squirrel, (^o Preventives.) 'Lor love, ye, I see through the hole in the millstone. He's come along with the girl, to take the p-rize, and to-morrow the village will think she did it alone. It's a good trick. Caleb. Do you say you have not seen it ? Squirrel. Ha, ha, my joker! Yes we've— found all we want to know ; you can sheer off — we know where to find you when we want you. Caleb, (aside.) He makes me tremble, (aloud.) But, Squirrel, I assure you Squirrel, Mum! till to-morrow, any how ! («s/cZe to Preventives,) I'll leave the chap on the gridiron, (aloud.) But enough backing and filling, lads ; scatter out and let's find my uncle, though all the spirits have the hiding of him, (they go up and exeunt over rocks at back.) Caleb. " Mum till to-morrow." What does he mean? Has he seen Alice, and does he know the mystery attached to her presence here? or, rather, am I already suspected of complicity in Perquin's shame- ful trade? To-morrow! If that murder comes out! Oh, innocent though I am, what suffering is mine ! (desperately) And yet, unless I mean to hang him, can I denounce the father of my poor blighted sweetheart ? Enter PeSquin, at back. PENMARK ABBEY. 2ô Perquin. Just missed me. (comes down.) And you 'scaped, too! found it ? Caleb. No, my hat's gone. Perquin. Where's the lass ? Caleb. Gone, too, and the preventives did not seem to have met her. Perruin. Have you been in their grip ? Caleb. They were in ambush here, and surrounded me. Perquin. It looks like all the devils were leagued against us. Caleb. What has happened now that's so new and terrible ? Perquin. All that's damnable ! Have I not only, by a narrow- squeak, eluded them? Their presence spoils the only hope of stow- uig my goods under hatches oft the rocks. Look! the beach is alive wirh torches— there's a bonfire on Gullet Head. It's a regular hunt that's up. We must cut and run, for they're about some move too deep for me ; and it will be fatal to fall into it. Caleb. We'll not dally here— it's an ill-omened spot. (Jooldnq np stiuje) But they are thick there {tnrniuc/ R.) Perquin. That's as bad ; but at the mouth of that gallery is a secret issue known to the old rat alone, (chuckling.) Caleb. We are lost ! Perquin. (dragging Mm np.) We'll not be found, you mean, (exit with Caleb, t« tlie stone gallery. ) Enter Fishermen with torches and lanterns r., folJoiced &?/ Monkton a7id Meriadec. Lights half up. Hed fire, faint, r. u. e. Meriadec. I cry a halt here. It is good place for Griffild and the rest to join us after casting their sweep round. MoNKTON. (uneasy.) Can you imagine a sound reason for that girl's absence ? Meriadec. I keep telling you that she and Caleb must be together, sheltered from the storm MoNKTON. She's not come home Meriadec. And she's not at Caleb's hut ; 1 am quite at a loss MoNKTON. You cannot guage my concern ; think that I decoyed the poor child into this strait with my nonsensical wager. How I'repent —but where is that old tree which suggested the scheme Meriadec. (pointing.) We are under its whip-like branches. MoNKTON. Would they had lashed me a round dozen, before I led her — see! (A Fisher holds np a torch.) a broken bough — the sap still running. Alice has been here ; now what misfortune Enter Griffild and Fishers and Villagers with torches and lights l. \_Lights up. MoNKToN. Have you found her ? Griff. Not a trace, sir. But here comes the squad of preventive ofBicers. Enter Squirrel and Préventives at hack. 24 PENMAEK ABBEY. Squirrel. Here they are ; now, then — (getting behind Preven- IVES.) Eh! (comes out) the mayor; and friends; a little more and we'll make mince of you. Meriadec. What's this to-do, boy ? Squrriel. a pretty to-do ; the place is full of magic and witchery. When we spied you , you looked like smugglers, and lo ! you are only honest folk. But worse remains behind— between the reefs of the' Monk's Leap, we have found the body MoNKTON. That poor child's body ? Squirrel. Child ? he's no child! a man's Three Preventives bring down the ftocZ/y 0/ Belgrip, uncl»akedy to (0.) on the beach. Emotion. Meriadec. Belgrip! Squirrel. Uncle ! Gripp. (aside.) The preventive laid low! Jacques Has passed here I (Scream of Alice in gallery. ) Help ! All. What's that ? [Confusion. Squirrel, They're after me now ! All the brave stock will go. MoNKTON. Who calls ? Alice, in great affright, comes out of the gallery. Alice. Save me, save me ! Meriadec. Alice ! MoNKTON. (receives A.'LiCY, in his arms.) Cease your alarm; friends are around you. Alice. The dead ; the sea has given up the dead ; and cast it here, where he was slain. Meriadec. She saw the crime. Alice. Indeed, I did ; at least, I marked the murderers bear that poor victim here on the way to a watery grave. And then again, in that cold corridor, I thought they hunted me and I fled lest they sought the proof I held against them. All. The proof? Alice, (holds up the hat.) Behold! from one of the assassins. (Meriadec talces the hat. Suddenly.) Oh! that knot of ribbons. It is— it is Caleb's! ah! (falls in a swoon.) Meriadec j)oi/it§ to the gallery. The Preventives climb into it. Monk- ton looks down sadly at Alice at hisféet, clasping his hand^s. Squirrel, (pushing the Preventives.) That's the style* cheerily, cheerily ! don't leave one head upon another. \. Curtain on Picture, quick. PENH ARK ABBEY. 25 ACT III. SCENE. — No change. Hall in Meriadec's house, in 3. grooves. Earhj morning. Candles lit or lanipa. Discover '(j(UiF¥iiÀ) directing two Footmen to arrange ligliis on table, etc. Griff, {putting papers on taMe near the icriting materials.) That will do nicely. Large as this room is, I doubt if it will hold all tlie curious mob who have been up all night after the festival to learn the upshot of this dreadful occurrence. Well the mayor will soon leai-n b}^ his examination. {Exeunt the Footmen, l.) There is something dark under Caleb's being accused of Belgrip's murder — The only man who can clear that up is Perquin, and I have sent a trusty knave for him. May he come in time for me to school him that we may keep our skirts clean. Enter Squirrel d. f, icith a handkerchief to his eyes, weeping. Griff Ah, here comes our nimble and cautious young friend the Squirrel ; no longer a lively Squirrel, — sincerely do I condole with you. Squirrel, {shakes his hand.) Very much obliged to you for the sympatliy Griff. It's so natural ; we both mourn a man to whom the whole township is under obligation — {aside.) Confound him for a spoil-sport. {aloud) By his craft and courage, we'd in a little time have been free from those rascally smugglers ; we shall have to make short work of the scoundrel whom we caught for carrying out their plot against him. He looks an honest fellow, and we all imagined him so, but none the less, if he do not prove as clear as the day that he is as white as snow, we shall hand liim over to tlie hangman, {take^i snuff ) Squirrel. You do me proud, Master GriflS.ld, though I very well know that hanging this cruel rogue will not I'estore my mother's own brother, {tearfulli/.) I know that I never loved my heroic uncle so muf3h as until now that I have lost him — {weeps.) GiFF. Have you lost anything else by him ? Squirrel. Ehf Griff. Did he not make you his heir? Squirrel, {sohlnng.) So — so he d — did. Griff. Ah, well, this is a vale and we must all go — where he is, he is better off. Squirrel. May be he is! amen! He was well off here, though ! {proudlij.) Besides his berth, he had a hundred and thirty pounds a year, and his clothes ; poor old boy I am grieved he's gone ; but you'll see what a showy funeral he shall have. Griff {aside.) My cousin is our undertaker, {aloud.) A most com- mendable resolve. Squirrel. And I shall not stay in the wi'etched — dangerous — pro- fession which cost him his life ; not I ; it would perpetually remind 26 PEXMARK ARBEY. me how he went off. I have sent in my resignation ; but in my distress I forget what I come for — is that prisoner safe ? Griff, (points r. 1. e.) He is looked up there. Only one window, barred, over the garden. Quite secure. Squirrel, {pointing l.) Where does that lead? GrRiFF. To stairs to the lobby — the mayor has the key. Squirrel. For precaution's sake I'll post a sentry there, as well. {points up c.) My uncle's death shall be paid for smartly, you'll see. If they'd only let me at that villain with a forty-pounder, {sobbing. ) Poor old nunkey. Griff. Be a man. Squirrel, {takes Ids hand.) I will try — but it's mighty hard. I was so fond of my uncle — {Going uj), handkerchief to eyes, he runs against Jacques Perquin ivho enters d, f. Squirrel's j;reb»decZ grief changes to a cry of real pain.) Aah! Eh, the tisherman here f Griff, {quickly.) I dare say he is uneasy about his daughter Squirrel. Ah! he would be ; oo, oo! {exitjy. f.) Griff. Gome at last, eh ? You must know in order to guide you — Perquin. {impatiently.) Come to tlie point, you screech owl of bad luck ; don't you see that you are sucking me into the whirlpool here ? When the weather's dirty and the rising gale whistles, there's no safety but an open sea. Out with it, my lawyer, what is the fact ? Griff. They have taken Caleb. Perquin. That's no news. Wliat lies alongside o' him ? Griff. Do you know they call him Belgrip's murderer ? Perqitin. They do ? whew ! well ; if he pays for me they'll not want my head. Griff. But he will tell of you Perquin. What's the use ? that will not save him, and he loves my girl too well. Griff. Then she's a nice one to denounce him, rather. Perquin. You lie ! Did she recognize us — or him alone ? Griff. Neither of you; but she produced a link that binds you to the crime — a hat picked up of the blunderhead you chose for mate. Perquin. Chose! chance gave me his assistance. I could have worried through alone. Now how came this about ? Griff. A beastly mishap ; she went to lop off a bough of the haunted willow, to win three thousand francs, a wager between Mayor Meriadec and a rich Englishman named Monkton Perquin, {very quickly. ) You don't say Captain Monkton — is he here ? Griff. Too much here ; spoiling the villagers with gifts ; but you will see him before Perquin. {ivith suppressed anger.) See him? no — Monkton' s a man to shun. Griff. Any body would think you had fallen out with him at some period. Have you ? Perquin. Mind your own affairs. You cannot " squeeze" me. What have you to acquaint me with? Say on. Griff. You have got yourself in a hobble. When they were hunt- ing for Alice, they knocked at your door first thing — and you were out. You must excuse that absence. Perquin. A lie the more. Go on. Griff. It's too long a story : your connection with Caleb, his attach- ment for your daughter, the doubt, in consequence of his good repute, that he was alone in the tragedy Perquin. How many strands in your yarn, you old rascal? PENMAEK ABBEY. 27 Griff. To avert suspicion, you must act boldly. As they brought your daughter in a swoon to Mayor Meriadec's, say you carne for her. Your calmness must deceive the lot, even Caleb, whom I have a scheme to deliver. In short, to speak your tongue, if, now you have the course laid down, you keep it closely, we shall come out into smooth water. Perquin. The plan's well enough, and I see that the fear of your being wound up with us has brightened your wits. Pull up your heart, man. I am not the fool to run my neck into the loop more than the next man. You have passed in victuals, mate, and if we have to fight for it, you'll see that I'll blow myself up rather than drag my mates down with me. But no foul play, man ; for wherever you bestow yourself after any double dealing, I'll hunt you up though you creep into a whale and I have to drive a harpoon through the blubber to pierce your white liver. (Griffild recedes to the table.) Griff. How can you think it ? {aside.) a pleasant partner I have; an old sea- wolf, {sits, terrified; writes on a slip of paper ivhich he rolls up and hides in his hand.) Perquin. (aside.) In the same waters as Monkton again; will the meeting turn out well or ill for me ? pooh ! one never knows whether he can clear the bar, till he slides over. Enter Squirrel d. f., followed hy Caleb guarded hy four Preventives. Squirrel. The mayor is coming; M. Griffild knows what's to be done with the prisoner. Griffild nods and opens r. 1. e. d. Squirrel yoes up and posts two Preventives without at d. p. and exits with the others. T>. F. closes. Caleb, (starts out of deep thought.) Jacques! how right were my forebodings. Griff. Silence ! you'll be overheard. Perquin. I tell you I would Caleb, {in a lower voice.) No; have no fear. I shall never forget that Alice owes her life to you. Perquin. (aside.) If I owe mine to you, that will be good enough. Griff, (leading Caleb r.) Read this paper and follow its advice — I am a friend to Jacques, (finger on lips.) Exit Caleb r. 1. e. d., which Griffild closes. D. f. opens: Preven- tives, Squirrel, Meriadec, Monkton, Gendarmes, Villagers, Fishermen and Women. They form picture. Meriadec and Monkton take seats at tadle. Griff, (aside.) It's all very well for Perquin to rely on the lad, but I take sounder precautions for silence, {sits at table. Re becJcons slyly to Tom, who comes with several Fishers, and stands near him.) ■ Perquin. (l. f. eyes Monkton. aside) That deep-set eye and wrinkled brow attest that he has suffered even as much as I desired ; but why do I feel at the sight of my enemy more pity than anger ? My hate is not yet quenched ; not yet. 28 PENMAEK AEBEY. Meriadec. Jacques Perquin, you must know what sad event cut short the merry-making f Perquin. I have heard something of it, mayor. Meriadec. Were you aware that your daughter meant to go to the Abbey last night ? Griff, (aside) Will he smell the trap ? Perquin. (starts; recovers.) Yes, mayor. Griff, (aside.) He is an ass. (spills his snuff.) Meriadec. How did you learn it ? Perquin. I caught an inkling from the drunken babble round the table . Meriadec. So you shut up shop, and lay down, and slept soundly during her absence ? Perquin. I shut up shop, mayor, true ; but sleep was not for me — I ran up to the Abbey Griff, (aside.) He'll hang himself with his tongue. Meriadec. Oh, you went to the Abbey, too ? Perquin. I did start for the Abbey ; but, to tell you the truth, I had shipped too much of my own grog — for such a jollification comes but once a-year. And though I thought I was steering to the proper haven, hang me, if I knew wliere I was till I knocked my head against the rocking-stone by Pont lAbbe — I fell flat, and did a sleep there — Meriadec. Humph! Perquin. The neighbor who picked me up will tell your worship more about it. Where's that Tom? Griff, (aside.) That's neat. Meriadec. Certainly, if this neighbor you name Tom. (to c.) That's me, your honor. I fell across him and, first off, I thought he had knocked out his brains agen the rock ; but his head is all sound. It was not till I saw him nearly home that we heard the sad news Perquin. More's the pity I went astray; for if I had been by that poor lieutenant, we two would have given those murdering thieves a bellyful. Meriadec. (confers loitli Monkton.) Call Alice. [_Exit Squirrel, d. f. Perquin. (aside.') It'll blow over. Enter Alice and Squirrel, d. f. Alice is pale and agitated ; weeping. Alice. Father ! (runs down and embraces Perquin.) Perquin. (tenderly.) My poor lass, (aside) What an idiot I am to be softened when I most need my head clear. Meriadec. (to Alice, ivho sits not far from him.) Master your emo- tion, my child ; and calmly remember the facts recorded there (gives paper) in your testimony, so that there may be no error or omission when you sign it. (she reads, displaying emotion.) Is that the expres- sion of the truth ? Alice. It is exact, sir. (signs.) Meriadec. (showing Ca^i^b^s hat.) Do you identify this hat as the one that you picked up in the Abbey ruins last night ? Alice, (sohhing.) It is the same, sir ; but that does not prove that Caleb did the crime, (to All.) You don't believe him guilty, friends? (to Meriadec.) Nor do you, sir? PENMARK ABBEY. 29 Meriadec. up to this time, irreproachable, and all at once a cow- ardly murderer 1 do not believe it of the yomig man ; but such grave pre.sumptions accuse him. May your sway over him, influence him to enlighten Justice ! It's a holy mission to perform ; perhaps it is your love that will save him. Perquin. (aside. ) Or ruin him. Mind the under-tow Jacques, my only friend. Squirrel, opens r. d., and Caleb enters. Murmurs of pity, Meriadeg. Caleb ; last night, a murder was committed within the decaying walls of Penmark Abbey; but, by some miracle, which Providence alone can explain, the sea, that might have borne away every vestige of the misdeed, rejected the corpse which the villains confided to it. Hence, it was found, recognized as that of the lieu- tenant of the revenue-guard ; and the uufortunate being whom pub- lic vengeance accuses of the act, is you, Caleb ! Alice. No, no! Caleb. I ! Heaven is my witness that I am innocent ! Mertadec. When you prove that, none of your hearers will morô rejoice than I. {after a brief pause) Up to your being brought here, how was your time bestowed? Were you at the dance f at Perquin's ? None saw you there. Where were you? answer! You were in the Abbey Cemetery, {indicates Squirrel) That lad met you there, and you alleged that you came from the festival, and retraced your steps to catch your hat blown off your head. That hat has been found — but found on the path where an undeniable witness saw the ^dctim borne to the cliff's edge. That witness cannot be considered hostile to you, for it is your sweetheart Alice, who almost paid with her life for the fatality of crossing that bloody jiath Î Caleb. Sir,' I have little knowledge of the world and law ; but I have enough common sense to see how bad it looks for me to have been on the scene. I might simply say that I wished to look after my venturesome sweetheart ; but I do not use that subterfuge. Griff, (aside) Wasting his chances. Caleb. So much stands black against me that I see, too, that did I free myself, the honor of my name would ransom my body. Mark me. Rather than dwell under shame and scorn — to avoid filling my judges with misgivings, and to sliorten a trial wherein all their learn- ing and cunning would be at fault, I shall own — (general surprise) not that I struck the unfortunate Belgrip ; but that cruel fate set me face to face with the murderer as his victim was dying. After this confession, torn from me by conscience, and sworn, before heaven, to be sincere, deal with me as you will — none shall now know aught more, (folds his arms.) Meriadec. Asserting yourself a forced accomplice, you refuse to reveal your principal ? Do you fancy that your silence will shield your fellows from susjjicion, until ~ Caleb, (quickh/.) Let this west wind hold, and before full day, the man whose name is buried here — (strikes his breast) will laugh at your keenest chase. Perquin. (aside.) He's true metal, and I breathe again. Alice. Caleb, in silence I have heard you; and I have hid my tears in order that the sight of them should not trouble your mind; but I did trust, up to the last word, that for your father's fame as well as for my sake, you would defend yourself. What complicity is there 30 PEKMAEK AEBEY. in your meeting^ the murderer bending over his victim ? Your complici- ty begins and exists in your refusal to expose the red-handed villain. What binds you to him — what duties, what pact, what attachment inspires so huge a sacrifice ? {she seizes and examines his hands.) Oh, I am sure of your guiltlessness! But you must not convince your sweetheart alone. All the world, neiglibors, judges, friends, shipmates — they must see your devotion — must see you are no crim- inal — must not curse you, insult you at your execution ? (feeUngli/. ) For my sake, Caleb. For the sake of the girl who has vowed so much love for you, and who, now kneels in appeal — don't drive me to despair! Don't let me die of shame that I have loved you! For your dishonor will be my death ! (rises.) Gkiff. (aside.) He will give in, yet. Alice, (^Perquin, desperately.) Father, in the name of the affec- tion you have ever shown me, 1 beg you, for the sake of my lifelong peace and happiness, to join your prayers to mine, that he will not sacrifice his life, but justify himself by revealing this dread secret. (She has taken Perquin's hands, to draw him toward Caleb, when she suddenly perceives the bite she gave him in the strnggle. Slie releases him, staggers off, nmttering to herself) Oh ! unhappy me ! the secret will be locked-up forever. Meriadec. (mm/7, ^0 Caleb.) This painful scene must close. Since nay urging and this poor young creature's entreaties, fail to break a silence which will surely be your ruin — let clearer-witted and more competent judges try to pierce the mystery. By daylight, the ])risoner will be taken to Brest. Until then, let that be your place of confi:ne- ment. Mind, GrifQld, no communications with the prisoner. Caleb is led off, r. d., and shut in. Griff, (aside to Tom.) The young man is weakening. We must not wait till Jacques is shown up." I shall induce him to flee by that win- dow. Now, if any one there below had a bullet ready — Tom. (aside to Griffild.) I understand. I will tumble the blabber, (goes ujp.) (Alice goes up ivith Perquin. Meriadec and Monkton confer, eye- ing Perquin. Meriadec signs to Alice that she must argue it out with Perquin, and she brings him down. Meriadec, (to Squirrel and Griffild.) Come with me, gentle- men. Griff, (aside.) I'll return, though. Exeunt Omnes, except Alice and Perquin,d. f. While d. f. was open, two Preventives, as sentries, tvere discovered. Perquin. Why have you pulled me back, girl ? Alice, (forcibly.) Did you not hear that Caleb will be taken to the gaol of Brest within an hour? You must come and change the mayor's order, (crosses L., but stops and turns.) I am going. mad! for that is impossible ! (abruptly, going n.) Can't you help me to free him who was so heroic as to ruin himself for you ? Perquin. Would you X3it me against the law and justice ? Alice. Justice ? That commands you to save him to the uttermost ; for you know he is innocent, you above all men ! PENMARK ABBEY. 31 Perquin. Ha, child! Alice. Dou't conjure me by that holy title. At this moment I am too distraught to hear your worldly voice. Another, from my con- science, tells me that -you should do unto him Avhat he has done for you. Save him, oh, save ! Perquin. {grasps her arm.) Imprudent girl! On what do you ground such ravings ? Alice. (furiousJi/) On what? On these wounds! {she seises Per- quin's hand, who is enraged.) Mind! we are not in the lonely mid- niglit Abbey now, and here you dare not strike me down. Perquix. Silence! If you let them catch a word of this — {to c) Alice. My excessive grief sways me between two dreadful alter- natives. Between two men whom heaven has bid me love ; all my affections centre on the one for whom I need not blush, (c, he on her left. ) Dreadful this bitter truth ; but far more dreadful to know one's father is a murderer. Perquin. {sees the doors are closed and returns to her ; in a low voice.) Come to the eud. I own that I struck Belgrip, to the death! But the preventive is the natural enemy of the free-trader, and it was a question of who should get in the tirst shot. Now, will you do lovingly what he would have done in professional vengeance ? Am I to be dragged to the gibbet by you ? MoNKTON. {enters l. d.) Nof but by me! Perquin. Monkton! {in angry smyrise.) My curses have blown back in my teeth. MoxKTON. It seems so ; for I have heard all the ensanguined story, honest Jacques. Perquin. Were I but armed ! Monkton. {shows a brace of pistols.) I have enough for two. Alice, {throwing off her stupéfaction.) Heavenly Father! 'twas I who wrung the confession from him, and so 'tis I who destroy liim. {to Monkton.) but no, you cannot abuse such a confidence. You would not publish me as the cause of my father's shameful ruin. I shall die of remorse. Oh, tell me that this shall not be. Monkton. All I require is that the innocent must not j)eris}i in the stead of the blood-imbrued. Perquin. {aside.) He does not know me yet! What can I do ? Alice, {to Monkton.) But you know Caleb is crime-free, now — spare my father, and help him to flight. I implore this favor. Perquin. {aside.) I lie at his mercy, now. (frowns angriUj.) Monkton {to Alice.) My heart aches that I must afflict you, child; but I can never haggle with my duty. (Alice kneels to him.) Perquin. (rt.y/(?c.) Better to sacrifice the hate that long years should have blunted, than founder in the surge. Monkton. Ho, there! (Alice clings to his arm as he goes up. D. p, opens ; one Preventive comes on, two steps.) That man is not to pass on any pretext. (JiJ.r?^ Preventive.) Now, to inform the mayor. Perquin. (fo Alice) He will not bend. Monkton. {scornfully.) He will break thee, villain. {They exchange a look.) Perquin. {sees that t>. f. is close.) Belay there ! Lay up your cutting tongue. I have turned this matter over, and I am calm — I'm a-thinking. Let's lose no time. See here : cancel the order you just gave out ; set me free, and give me money, and I'll put a long wake between us. Monkton. Thou impudent rogue. 32 PEXMAKK AEBEY. Perquin. Say, daring, spiteful vogue,— 'twere truer. Does Captain Monkton remember when, in 1814, he was bringing home from Bos- ton in the ship St. Paul's, his fair young bride ? MoxKTON. {affected.) My wife, scarce four years wedded? Mis- taken man, if you imagine to interest me by arousing tlie recollection of all that was most dear. Perquin. What if I tell you ; nay, assure you, that in the wreck which you believed swallowed all your darlings, wife and daughters — one was saved — your eldest child ? Monkton. (quiclii/, in joy.) Can this be true? Perquin. If I tell you where she is to be found this day — may I go free ? Monkton. {joyfnUy.) If you deceived not, and it were in your power to certainly restore that child — come what come may, I would make smooth your flight, {produces a pockethool') and I don't chaffer for my flesh and blood. Here's two thousand pounds to boot. Perquin. {seizes the pockethooh.) Done! You have her here ! {goes It]).) Monkton. (amazed.) Alice, my daughter ! Alice. You, my father ! (they gradually cipproach. Perquin mock- inr/ly making tJie qesture ofhlcssing them.) Perquin. Look at the likeness in her locket | Monkton. (opens locket at necklace of Alice.) It is her mother's — my poor Anna ! (lie kisses it.) Perquin. No good seaman pushes off without weatherguards. So, d'ye see, I took my shield. Monkton. But who are you to have shrouded the rescued waif in mystery ? Perquin. Ha! you conceive that the motive must have been no laughing matter that made me scorn the rich reward I might have clutched fifteen years agone. I'll make a clear breast now," and be- fore your daughter, so that I may add to your griefs by causing you to blush before her. (Alice mores away.) Monkton. Stay, Alice, this man can only fling in my face some youtlifnl boyish folly. I thought I had fully and bitterly expiated them all ; but if heaven means this humiliation as the last drop in my cup, I am ready to endure it. Perquin. Not so ! Your manliness touches me. I loved the poor lass; and I will not cause her a jot more pain. Stand back, Alice! (draics Monkton fronts l. c.) Hark ye — I am James Perkins — am I known, now? (Monkton shctkes his head.) But, I see, the captain does not remember the names of all the toilers at the guns. I served the bow-chaser on the ^'p/eing plain instructions for construction and arranf^ement of Stage, making Scenery, getting up Costumes, ^^ Making Up" to represent diiïerent ages and cliaracters, and how to produce stage Illusions and Effects, Also hints for the management of Amateur Dramatic Clubs, and a list of pieces suitable for Drawing Room Performances. Hand- somely illustrated with Colored Plates. I*rice, 25 Cents, DE WITT'S SELECTIONS AMATEBE Al PAELOR THEATBICALS. Nos. 1, 2, 3 &; 4. Being choice selections from the very best Dramas, Comedies and Farces. Specially adapted for presentation by Amateurs, and for Parlor and Drawing Room Entertainments. Each number, 25 Cents, PANTOMIME PLAY , '^HUMPTY DUMPTY." The celebrated Pantomime, as originally played for 1,000 nights by the late George L. Fox. Arranged by John Denier, Esq. Eight male, four female characters. Price, 25 Cents, -\ ■