3 PS 3523 .E37 H6 1911 Copy 1 r 4-C-M^ ^ n ^ft^ oU. oL >. (iLMif "A HOME RUN" A DRAliA OP THE DIAMOND IN POUR ACTS BY MIRON LEEEINGWELL COPYRI GHTED 1911. BY ALEX EYERS NOTE Under the new copj-righted law the rights of production of a play are not secured by the purchase of a manuscript of it, and copying of a copyrifehted play, and sale of copies of it, are offences ptinishable by fine, and If done wilfully ty imprisonment. ^ . . For manuscripts of this play, and rignts to produce it, apply to THE CHICAGO liIANUSCRIPT CO. , 431 N. CLARK ST., CHICAGO, ILL. gCI.D 25345 \^0 ■ '>' 1-E "A HOME RUE , " A Comedy Drama in Pour Acts. Cast of Ch-aracters .. Joe Stafford Iho is working his way through college Burt Anstey Jr» His chum^ Percy Wilkins Of the Freshman classo b Mr, Anstey A Copper King. ^ Nick Dusenhury Joe's stepfather, Ai Duke Mawson A speculator, $ Butch Wilson A "Hasheen." Hikara Mawson' s Japanese Valet. Mr. Brown President of the Ball Cluho Cassidy A policeman, Ethel Anstey A Heiress, Ruth Stafford Joe's sister, a crippSec Mrs. Dusenhury Joe''s mother. Mrw. Montgomery Bayliss SYHOI-SIS Act i:- BoQms of Joe and Burt. Western University „ r Act 2:- Veranda of Hotel Sisrhurbanao Act 3:- Home of Mrs. Bayliss. Act 4:- Outside the Ball Grounds. oooqOOOOOOooo 2-E Act ?irst SCENE: --Quadrangle Court. Western University., (Rooms of Joe and Burt Anstey) A plainly furnished Interior., 12 12_ \ 3 x7 x7 i V'jxV \9 EXI-LAEATIOE (l) Window. (2) Dresser. (3) Door. (4) Interior Backings, (5) Book-case. (6) Curtained arch. (7) Chairs. (8) Tahle. (9) couch. (10) Fireplace, (ll) Door. (12) Exterior backings. Set has doors L. and L.2«E. Arch a.2/E. Window R. at hack. Arch R.2.E, is curtained. Window R. is curtained. A "book-case R. at hack. Dresser with oil stove and sihes etc. Couch is down of C. Table R. with chairs surrounding. Lamp on table not lighted. Pictures on walls, cut from papers, foils, masks and boxing gloves hung up. Tennis rackets, foot-ball flags, a punch- ing bag L. of C. Photographs on mantel, jndian clubs and dumb- bells by fireplace, jire not lighted. Time:-- Early simmer, late in afternoon. At rise: — Discovered Turt wearing a long, guady lounging robe, and a towel around his head, smoking a pipe.) Burt (At table, reads from book.) "The determination of the density of bodies in a state of gas is therefore an operation of the most fundamantal importance." GasI, Gas J Gas I Density, I'm dense and that's no lie! " Ghorus (Outside.) "Then up spake the cook of ovir gallant ship, And - a red - hot cook, was he] * ' Oh, I care more for my kettles and my pots, Than I do for the bottom of the sea; Por the stormy waves do roll. And the blustering winds do blow. And we poor sailors, a sitting up aloft, While the land lubbers lie down below, below, below, While you land lubbers lie down below, (Geneeal laugh) 3-E ( Burt (Irrated, slams down "book.) Lovely' Lovely .1 Hear those freshman "bleat I (does up to window, opens it, shouts,) "Mary had a little lamh , She sent it off to college, And put him in the Freshman class, That he might gain some kno^'i^ledge , Yes, - said it is, to state, alas I He landed in the Freshman class, Where it doth always come to pass, That eyery lamh turns out an ass." Bahl BaaJ (imitates hleating of sheep. Yell of Freshman outside) Yahl Yahc' Voice Look at his head tied up J Yahl Burt Little "boys, little hoysi Shouts (Outside J Yah! Yah J Burt Run aroiond the corner, little hoys and playo Go on Toddlekins , Spinkey Wankees , Doodle hugs and the resto Go play "tag" "I-uss in the corner" and don't make so much noise, or I'll have to come down and spank youo Shouts (Outside,) Come on' Who's afraid? Come on - Yah J Yah,' Burt (Shuts window, slamming ito) A man trying to study and that howling mob i I swear these Freshman are getting to he the limit « Song (outside) "S^id the Bull frog to the owl, What -will you have to drink, (Repeat twice more) S^id the owl I'm not particular, I'll take a hot tie of ink, Singing tr?. - la - la - la." etc. (Dying out in distance. Burt during song, closes blinds, draws curtains and lights lamp,) Burt (Grabs up book again. Reads.) "The weight of the smallet, parti- cle of compound, is therefore according thDalton's theory to be obtained by adding together the weights of its constiluent atoms. (Knocks on door.) Come ini Oh , rats I (Throws vol'ime, as Dusen- bury enters. It strikes him J Hello.' Hello 1 Duseiabury Hello? Oh Hell' Burt I beg your pardon. Dusenbury Beg nothing* ^.s that the way you receive visitors? (Dusenbury is a seddy individual with a red nose.) Burt I'm sorry. Dusenbury Of course you are' KnOck a man block off and then tell him, you're sorry I 4-E " -Burt My examination in chemistry comes off to-morrov;, and you see, I*m gridding for it. Dusen"bury No, T don't seeo What are you grinding? Burt To put it more plainly, I am stuffing. Dusehbury Stuffing? Burt (Rpaidly) Yes, I am swallowing the contents of that text book, which cloddided with your dignified and most honorable persoaal- ity , and I am endeavoring to assimilate, as it were, in forty eight hours, the mental pap, which I should have absorbed during the last five months,j I hope I make myself clear^ Dusenbury (Sus-iiiciously . ) Say, are you kidding me? What are you trying to give me? Burt My esteemed friend , it is beyond my ability to give you anything this afternoono If you are looking for a contribution, you had better go on your weary wayo You have landed in the abode of honest poverty. My chum and I have but two pair of trousers, a sweater and one coat between us. Vflien one goes out the other stays in. Jacob is holding the rest of apparel. To be sure - there is this gaudy affair, (V/rapping long bath robe like a toga around him, and posing.) This is the gift of my fond and foolish sister, Joe is wearing our coat, joe had to go out, Dusenbury Joel Burt Ye So joe my chum - my room-mate^ Dusenbury Joe Stafford! Burt Yes. Dusebnbury I'm his father, I'm Mr. Dusenbury, Burt His father? Dusenbury Yes, I married his mother, I'm his step -father ., Burt Oh I Dusenbury You must have heard him speak of me? Burt No, I can't say I ever have, I have met Joe's mother and his sister, I am glad to have the pleasure of meeting you, Joe, will be in presently. Will you take a - a - Dusenbury I don't care of i doq-- 0-E Burt A chair? DuBen"bury EhJ Yes - oh yes^ (Sits) Burt (Realizing) i don't know what I can offer in the way of entertain ment or refreshment, i think nilkins finished that "bottle of "Scotch" the other night. (?inds bottle in drawer of dresses or sideboard at back« ) No, he didn't, j^e must have fprgotten. j nevr knew Wilkin s to be so ansent minded. Dusenbury A student here who knows a lot about Scotch History and Scotch wh whisk eye There, Mr o Dusenbury, help yourself. (Brings down bottle and glass to table,,) There's a Syphon of Seltzero Dusenbury Thank youl I always take my ^^hiskey straight » (tours out a big drinkc) Ain't you going to join me? Burt Thank you - no - J"oe has inviegled me on the water wagon. Dusenbury Here's my regards I (Drinks) Burt (Bows) Votre Sante . Dusenbury (Coughs ) Eh? (spluttering) Burt Your good health. Dusenbury Ohl So Joe don't drink yet? Burt NO'. Dusenbury He's a very model young man, Burt So everyone says who knows him. He ' s a fine fellow all through - credit to the college, and I'm proud of to be his friend. Dusenbury What mi^t your name be? (Enters Percy Wilkins L.Ucfi.) Burt Anstey , Burton Anstey, Dus enbury Oh yes, I've heard tell of you - you're the son of old Burton Anstey, the copper King, liSTilkins (Interrupting) Why yes. Young Burt jn Anstey is old Burton An- stey »s son. Young Burton Anstey will be old Burton Anstey, when old Burton Anstey is done, Dusenbury Hello i Burt, how are the hall-rom boys? Whots your friend*? Introduce me . Burt Mr. Dusenbury , this is Wilkins. ne is only a Freshman. Dusenbury He's fresh all right, I can see that. 6-E Burt Don»t mind his ravings, h© entered the University with your step-son and nQ^self, and had he behaved himself, he might have a Sophomore - hut the flinty hearted faculty decided he should remain a Freshfcan, and a Preshman he is,; We tolerate him for Auld Lang Syne. Mr. Dusenhury - Wilkins, Wilkins, Mr, Dusenhury, know eath other » Wilkin s (Shaking hands,) Mr. Docs - everybody - glad to meet you. Dusenhury Dusenbury - Dusenbury - not Dooseverybody . V/ilkins Dusenbury - all rigjht . I'll remember^ Have you any money, Burt? Burt KOo Have you? Wilkins No, that's the reason I asked you. Burt You anticipated meo Broke again, eh? Wilkins Broke I I'm granulated,, I can't understand ^'•ou hsving no money though. If ny dad was as rmch as yours--- Burt If my father had a son like you, he couldn't be so richo Wilkins Thanks awfully, y Burt f Oh, you can keep the change. My father is ^ self made man , who believes in his son roughing it a littleo'He allows me so much to see me through the year, and if I ppend it ]Deforc the year is out, I have to do without it, tha-t's all, I premised him, I wouldn't go into debt, a gentleman's promise, Miich of course I have to keep, you know my father worked his \^s.y through college - and he says it helped to make a man 'of himi Wilkins \ Worked his way through college. That's what Joe s't-afford is doing. College is Joe's sole ambition<, vre cares f&^ nothing else, Burt Yes, more power- to him, as the jrish sayo jfr.. DusenDuryXtiere . is joe's step-father, Wilkins Is he? Well, he ought to feel hjnoredo Dusenbury \ (Misuderstanding .) That's what I 'el always telling them at home, I dontt like to toot my own honn - but - Wilkins Joe is the greatest short-stop oi;ir college has ever knov;nand one of the best ball players in America, and he's no slouch of a quarter back either, Dusenbury Humph i Wilkins I paeeed Joe as I came up. He's talking to a chap that looks like a Tailor sign„ 7-E X)U senlDury Does lie wear "big diamonds? Wilkins He do, Dusenloury A well iDuilt good looking fellowL V/ilkins (Dubiously) That is a matter of opinion^ He«s "build more nearly, resembles that of a "piano mover" than my own Apollo and Greek God like a figure, still he looks as if in a rough and tumblelc he might-- Dusenhury And he's found Joeo Ohk^ that's him all righto He's a scrapper he is. Young feller, you don't want to get gay with him or he'll hand you one-- Wilkins Hand me one? Ke? nire? I-erhaps you don't know who I am^ i can keep the flies off any of themj my ancient friend, when I get started. Just watch moo (He slams the punching hag, it swings and hits Dusenhury^ Dusenhury enraged, slams it hack againc Wilkins hits it again, it slams Du senhury again. Comedy kept up,) Keep it upi Keep it up! t^^^ ^^ great.. (Dusenhury runs over , gets Indian club brandishes it at Wilkins. Burt interferes.) Eurt Here I Here I Cut this out. Wilkins , I'm ashamed of youo Don't mind him, Mr. Dusenbury, he's only a freshman, Dusenbury I'll show himi I'll-- (Goes over, takes another drinko Enter Joe StiSfford LoLoE. followed by DukeMawson) Burt Here's Joe nov;] Hello Joe. (Bows stiffly to M^wson. ) Mr,, Mav;sonc Joe Hello Burt, here's a letter for you. I stopped at the post office as I came along. Hello Wilkins I Wilkins Hello Joe, I got here before you, Joe So I see„ Why -- (Looking as Dusenbury) Dusenbury Yes , it • s me I Joe Nothing wrong at home, is there? Dusenbury (Carelessly) Oh no 1 Joe HOW is mother and how is Ruth? Dusenbury They're all right.. They're always all right. I *m the only one who suffers. How de do Mr, ffawson. Maws on Howdy, Dusenbury, (To Joe.) So there's no use of talking to you, eh? Joe No! 8-E Kwson You won it consider my offer? Joe X can't!. Maws on You're foolish... Joe 1-erh.aps I am. Maws on There's no perhaps about it. Why lots of hoys in the college would jvimp at the chance„ How see here, I'm not going to take "EO" for an answer, I'll give you time to think it over. I'm going to stay around till this evenin,--.. I'll call on you again, Joe -ft will he useless .- Maws on And I^il raise the amount five hundred. I hate to see a good man go wrong as you vdll do ■■ if you don't tate my offer, I'll see you latere Dusenhury Wait, Mro Mawson, I'll go with you, (Empties "bottle of the last drink) Jcce (Mortifiedo) ^lat brought you here to-day? Dusenhury (Mysteriously r. ) Business - my hoy - business » That's all, (Half jagged.) Mr. Mav/son. I am Y/ith youc Good afternoon, Mr^ Anstey. Burt Good afternoon, Mr. DLisenbary , Come again, Disenbury I Willi Maws on Think it over, Staf fordo (Exits L.UoEj Dusenbury Yes Joe, think it over. (Exits L.U.E.) Wilkin s That big fellow Mawson , seems to have your interests at heart how he smiled at youo Joe Yes, iiike an anaconda smiling at a canary birdo Burt (Has been looking over letter.) That's the sort of a sister to have. See v;hat she sent me.- (Flourishing J-cO. Order) Joe and Wilkin s A post Office OTfder? Wilkins How much? Burt A hundred o Wilkin s A hundred? HurrahJ Let's go out and spend it. Joe Decency , Wilkins, try and be decent „ 9-E Burt He can't. He's not like us. Wilkins Decent? How can j te decent when have a friend viio is going to spend a hundred dollars with me? Burt I"!!! mot going to spend a hundred cents with yoUo Wilkins Stingy: Stingy! Burt Shut upi I want to read you Sis's letter o Wilkins That hvmdred's the hest part of it, Burt Will you shut up? Joe, just "brain him with something, will you? (Joe throws wilkins on sofa, sits on him, straffs sofa cush- ion in his mouth,) V/ilkins (Trying t o fight it off») Take care, you'll smother me o Joe Will you he good.. (Bus. again) Wilkins Yes - yes - you brute ^ Joe Go on, Burto Burt (Reads from letter) "My Poor Dear 'Brofher--^ ITaat ' s the way she "begins. "My poor dear Brother-"' (Kisses letter ,) Wilkins That's a great beginning .-, (Joe threatens him with pillow) Burt Why, I sag. her "dear "brother" add H'm poor, and am I not? (Reads) "I can't tell you what a deal of anxiety your letter has caused me. I wanted to tell pa-pah", she always calls dad "papahc " Just like that "papaho# Wilkins Oh scissors, (l-illow bur. same as beforeO Burt (Continues) "But thought I v;ould await your next letter, I am grieved to know that you are ill," Joe 111? Did you write her you v/ere ill? Burt I wrote her I was ill in mind, sick to the heart. V/ilkins Oh slush,' Burt (Reads.) "Dear Burt, I fear you are studying yjurself to death." Wilkins Ohl Oh I Ohl (In convulsions) Burt (Imitated.) Cut it out! Cut it out I I didn't wrote her that, she just "fears'" it, that's allc What's the matter with you fellows, can't a chap's sister imagine all sorts of things if she wants to? (Looks at letter.) Oh, I say Joe, here is something about you. "I am glad that you and Mr„ Stafford are rooming together. I like him V ery much . ■ 10-E V/ilk£ns Df:s s she say anything atout me? Biirt of course noto Wilkin s Why, iVe met her oncec Burt Maybe that's the reason. Wilkins (Protests) Oh, I say — Burt Oh, she does refer to you - indirectly » (Reads) "Keep away from that disspated and idle set, you associated with your first year in college and stick to Mr, Stafford. I fear you must "be short of money, so I send you a little - write me if you need more c " Wilkins Lovely] Lovely 1 Burt "I know you will put it to good use,, With love , Your sister Etheko " Oh Ethel , you angel. Of course I'll put your hundred to good use. I must cash this order. The post office isn't closed yet? Joe No, it isn't six o'clock^ Burt (Taking off long dressing gown. ) Joe, lend us our coat„ (To Wilkinsi It's Joe's cos.t , hut I call it "ours"^ nearly all our clothes are in soak with Jacobs, I'm going to g t some of them outo That money comes in the nick of time, or I would have to sho^-, up to that chemistry examination in my sweater, Magine what I-rofessor Duhey would have saido (Joe has taken off coat during speech, and Burt has put it on,) Burt Eow joe, put on this robeM Joe NO, I don't need ito Burt Suppose somebody should come in? Joe Well, what of it? I'm all right. Burt Put on the robe to oblige me o You know this v,'as a gift of Ethel's and she put this bunch of ribbon on the shoulder^ Oblige me, old man , do. Joe Oh well -- (Surrendering) Go as far as you like, Burt Joe, you're a beauty , and a joy forever. Now I'm going to Jacob's first and buy back so''e of my rags. Wilkins Jacobs will be satisfied with a profit of some four hundred percent o 11-E Burt And I'll get some groceries - some eataloleSo V/ilkins Don't forget the drinkables „ Eurt And then Joe Are you going to wear a hat or do you prefer that towel around your head? Burt Holy gee I I forgot all ahout thato I read in a magizine that it was a good thing for the "brain while study ingo p^erg', you wear th e towel. It goes with the rohe^ (Tries to tie towel on Joe's he ad .- ) Joe I'll see you hanged first o (l-ushes Burt away) Burt (Getting hat) Say wilkins , are you going with me? Wilkin s You "bet I am^ I '^11 stick to you while you have a dolla,r„ Burt Then lead the way. j -m^nt to speak to Joe a minuteo Wilkins Sure., I'll wait for you downstairsc (Exits LoUcEc.) Burt What did that "big chap Maws on wa,nt you do do? i know something of ■^im» What is he now? Joe A hase hall King.-. He owns a lot of stock in one of the Major League Cluhs and he wants me to leave college, and join the Professional ranks o Burt And you refused? Joe I refusedo He offered me all sorts of money, "but I have struggled and fought in spite of all discoura.gements am trying for my future career, vague and misty as it seems, and I'm going to fight it out to the limit o Burt Good old Joe i (Offers his hand„ joe takes it. They shake. Going) Do you Want anything joe? Joe No, thankSo What have you got the lamp "burning for and the daylight shut out? Burt I wanted to shut out the noise of that Freshman glee cluh , who were practicing under the window^ Bye -"bye. I'll be back soon,, (Exits L.U.E. ) Joe (Joe turns down lamp, goes t > vrindow, draws curtains, raises the blind, opens window„ Red glow of sunset outside o Joe goes over, picks up photo in frame on mantel. Takes it to table, and looks at it, speaks.) How good Ethel is, how sweet„ Burt (Re-enters L.UoE. ) There's a lady here wants to see you, Joe, Yes, this way Miss. Mr. Stafford is home. (Enters Mrs» Mont- gomery Bayliss, She is very fashionably dressed) 12-E Mrs. Bayliss Thank, you, thank you. Burt Not at ^all» (Regards her curiously and looks at Joe, then catches sight of wilkins who is at door and ru'bbering ovsr Burt's shoulder) Wilkins Isn't she a peach? (Burt indignantly pushes nriikins away from door closes it, noise of scuffle heard as of the town of them clecnhing and rolling down stairs) Mrs,. Bayliss Dear me , what is that? Joe Nothing, prohahly wilkins is going down stairs. Don't mind it » p-e generally goes down stairs that way, it doesn't hurt hinjo Mrs, Bayliss Afli I speaking to T/rro Stafford? Joe Yes, Miss. _ Mrs, Bay lis So I am Mrs. Bayliss, Mrs„ ]i/rontgomery Bayliss„ Joe Glad to meet you, Mrs. Bayliss. Mrs, Bayliss Pardon my intrusion, Mr„ Stafford, i am trying to find ^rr,. ^^^awson I accompanied him from the city to-day and was to return with him„ He told me he had some business on hand with you, and i learned your address, and am here in search of himo Joe Mr, j./rawson has "been here and gone, Mrs , Bayli s And I have missed himi That is a,nnyoingc ^e must have come to term terms with you very quickly. Joe We Come to no terms. I couldmt consider the gentleman is propo- sition, Mrs, Bayliss Not at all? Joe Not at all. Mrs. Bayliss of course you will think me atsurdiy impertinent on such short acquaintance, hut i think you are hasty, I am a "business woman, Mr, Stafford, and am apt to l^sok at most things in this life in a Cold commercial way - so pray, pardon me, I have heard of you and am natvirally interested. You canit dislike the game you play so well. joe I like "baseball for itself, hut - hut I neYer want to make a profession of it, I have other ideas, other hopes, other ambi- tions, T can't give them up at this point, I have cherished them too fondly. Mrs. Bayliss Then Mr, ,,awson won it get your name to a contract? ' Joe I I think not; unless he hypnotizes me.. 12-E Mrs. Bayliss Well , at all events, I want to yee morg of you, when you ccme tc th.e city, call on me „ There is a card with my address. Don't fail, (l-roduces card from "bag) Joe (Bows) Thank you I Mrs. Bayliss I'll go and try to look up Mr^ Mawson, Good day, (Going to door) Joe Good day, Mrsc Bayliss (Bus. Mrs„ Bayliss opens door, pauses a second, as if she were going to say something more, changes her mind, ahout to exit. Ethel Anstey enters. The tvro women take each other in, loe does not see Ethel, he has turned his hack to tahle again, thinking Mj-s, Bayliss has gone, Mrs» Mayliss exits L«UoEo Joe has picked up Ethel's photo again examining it) Ethel $Solus) I wonder who she is? Visiting my hrother. Ah, there's Burl and he^s wearing the rohe I sent him„ What a dear fellow^ (Tiptoes downo ) And he's looking at my picture.! Oh, you darlingl (Throws her arms around JOe's neck, kisses him several times "before she recognizes mistake, then screams and runs over L,) OhI Oh.1 (So'bs , then in temper,) How dare you, sir^ Plow dare you? Joe ( Staggers o) Why I haven't done anything.- wthel You let me kiss you» Joe How can I help it? Ethel I thought you were Burt, my "brother c Joe I'm glad I'm not, I mean I'm sorry you made such a fumole, I mean - I mean - Oh, I don't know what I mean, Ethel What must you have thought? Joe I thought for a moment I was in Heav^j fe hut I'm waking up, Ethel Sir, you have pleased ras in a most emharrassing and ridiculous positiono AS a gentleman you vd.ll never mention this to a living soulo Joe We willkeep it a secret - just "between us two^ Ethel I see you in a ro"be similar to one I sent Burt, Joe Yes, it's the same one, it's our robe, all right, "bless it. Ethel Sir I Joe Well 9 you see - Burt and I are chums, and he made me put this on — I 13-B Ethel But you were looking at my picture - the photograph - I sent my brother. That also deceived me c joe You see - I admire you very much« Ethel Sir! Joe In the photograph - I like to study your face as a work of art^ Ethel Sir! Joe In t][e photographs T^ewhole pi;i:ture is artistic. Ethel Where is Burt? Joe He ran out a few minutes ago„ Ethel Ran out - as sick as he is? Joe Oh, he isn't sicko You see you had the wrong idea, Ethel How do you know what idea I had? Joe Well, we read you r letter o Ethel Me? Joe Burt and I - that is - Burt read it to me^, Ethel Did he read you all of it? Joe Yes , no , no, he didn,t read what you wrote ahout me "b^ing a nice fellow and that you liked me very much, no he didmt read that o Ethel I don it like you - I've chanted my mindo Joe oh, say. Ethel I fear there is a gulf "between us which can never be bridged , Bid that lady who left here as I entered come to see you or my brother? Joe Me. Ethel (Triumphantly.) I thought sol jce She is -- Ethel Never mind, sir, I don't invite your confidence — Joe But she is — EtheQj I don't car 4 who she is — 14- -E .r. Anstey (Roars outside-) Oh];, that's all right, I know the way. Ethel That's pa-pah, I know his melodious hellov;. Don't let him suspect that you kissed me just now, or he will probably frighten you to death c (Loud rap on door LdJ.E,) Ethel and Joe Come in^ (Anstey enters. He should he a sturdy Hctice man, of about fifty, loud in voice, quick in speech, domineering about good naturedl^c, well dressed, A prcpei-ous business man.) Anstey Hello! You got ±here before me. Ethel Yes , papaho Anstey Where is Burt? How is he? Ethel Burt i-^ all right, papah. We were grossly deceived as to his condition. He's not sick at alio Anstey I'm glad to hear it » Ethel I shan't have the pleasure of nursing him back to health after all Anstey I never thought he was sick, I told you were were a foolo Ethel Yes , papaho Anstey And you are young Stafford, eh*? (To Joe). Joe Yes sir, Anstey I'm glad to know youc I'm glad my boy and you are friend ■,, Joe Thank you. An s t ey I know boys, pretty well and haven't any illusions about them college boys especially o They are generally splendid young sav- ages who want to grow and play and get into all kinds of mis- chief. They don't come here for education^ They are not educated. They will never will be. They only remember when they have to, and then they yawn over the operation. When, I hear of a young fellow like yourself, who has the energy to work, and make his living while he is trying to learn something, he interests me, and that is why I say again, Joe Stafford, I'm glad to meet youo (Shakes his hand.) By the way, v;hat are you going to do this summer vacation? T might have a j ob for you, Joe Thank you. I'll take it, Anstey I'll pay you tv;o hundred a month and expenses. To go to New Mex- ico for me on a confidential mission connected with my mines. Come to the city and see me at my office after your examina- tions. 3)-5E Joe I '11 come , sir = Anstey Burt has to learn a trade after he finished college « Ethel Are you going to make poor Burt work, papah? Anstey (Firmly) I am„ Ethel At what, papah? Anstey He shall be an iron moulder, a black smith , or rvn a "bakery. Some sort of trade before he studies a profession^ Where is he? Ethel got nervous about him, and she told me, and then the idea got on my nerves that he needed us and ws came here like two damned fools o Ethel Oh papaji, Burt has gone outo Anstey After medicine, I suppose, Humphl (Sees v\hiskey o'Q table, picks it up.) Hello, what's this? Ethel (Innocently.) Why papah, it's a bottle .. Anstey Yes, I can see that. I didm't suppose it was a flat iron or a paper of tacks. It is probably some of your brother's medicine ^ Ah, you boys have an -asier time than I had at your age. I had to rise at five and break the ice in the pitcher to wash with - and thenatchop wood before I got my breakfast, and all the chores around the boarding house, then off to chapel, and then to lectures. Ethel Did you go to chapel every morning, papah? Anstey Of course, it was compulsory.- We had to. Why? Ethel Oh nothing. I suppose that is v;hy it's so hard to get you to go to church now, Anstey (Coughs) Never mind about that » j never can recall my college days with all their privations but with pleasure c And when you reach my age, Joe, abd become an old fossil like me-- Ethel I-apahl Maybe Mr, Stafford can manage to reach your age and not become an old fossil like you„ Anstey What's that? What's that? How dare you I Ethel I was only quoting you, papah, you said it. >tow — Anstey (Ad. Lib. Bus. of rasing his voice, still has bottle in his hand) I - I - 16"E Ethel Mo"r papsLh, don't shout so. Just think wfeat people would say if they should come in and see you flourishing that "bottle and going in so. 'hy , poor Burt would be mortified to death. Anstey (Replaces "bottle on tahle , growls.) It ' s a poty about him, 3-oor EurtI poor Burt I It would do him good to get out and hustle like Joe for an education. You spoil him. Now if Joe had a sister — Ethel Joe - Mr. Stafford has a sister = Anstey How do you know? Ethel Burt told me all about her„ I wish he'd come back. Anstey Well, I can't waste time waiting for him, come on Stafford, put on your coat and you, Ethel and I will go and look for him. Joe (Blankly.) My coat? Anstey (Testiky.) That's what I said, your coat. You can't wear that awful looking thing out doors. The Freshman would lynch you. Ethel "Awful looking thing" - Why papah, that's my present to Burt. (Bus. with Anstey.) Joe (Aside.) How can I tell him that Burt is wearing our only coat? Anstey Hurry upi Joe V/ell, the fact is-- Burt (Enters hastily with bundle of coats, trousers etc. Sees Anstey and Ethel.) Ethel I Dad I The devil. (Drops them scattering clottes on floor . ) Ethel Oh papah, he's as bad as you are I Ansteu I think he's w^rse. What is this? Are you going into the clothing business? Burt Mo. Not exactly. (Hugs and kisses Ethel) Anstey Explain. (Roars) Explain! Burt Oh, that's easy - You see Joe and I-- You've met joe, haven't you? Ansteu ^es, I 've met Jo-=, Burt Well, you s= e , we have been borrowing, Anstey Borrowing? 17--E Burt No lending - did I say "borrowing? We have "been lending all our clothes, and -- (Yo Joe aside) Say something, won't you? Joe I can't - I "m speechless. Burt Yes, lending our clothes and I've been on a collecting tour getting them hack again, and -- (knock on the door.) Come inl (Enters Mrs. Dusenbury and Ruth. Ruth is lame » ) Joe Mother I Ruth I Well, well, well J Mrs. Dusenbury , (In agitation.) Joel Joel I must see you at oncec Joe Yes I (Surprised.) My mother and sister, Mr o Anstey. Ans tey Glad to meet you. Madam, Miss, my daughter c (Murmur of ack- nowledgement of introduction, on both side. Ethel goes over cross- ing and ahsking hands with 'Mrs. Dusenbury and Rlith. ) Burt (Notices Mrs. Dusenbury 's nervousness.) come in and look at our other room, dad, I have something to say to you. (At R.E.) Anstey (Severely.) Yes, young man and I have sonething to say to youli (Burt exits, Anstey following.) Ethel (Alarmed.) Oh, papahi Joe Well mother, something has happened. What is it? Mrs. Dusenbury The mortage - Joe - the mortgage! Joe What mortgage,' Mr So Dusenbury I forgot - you didn't knowo I never meant that you should know, Joe. Three years ago I put a mortgage on our little home for two thousand dollars. Your father suggested and advised it, Joe Mr. Dusenbury, eh? Well? Mrs. Dusenbury He wanted to establish himself in business. Joe The liquor business? So that's where the money came from? Well? Mrs, Dusenbury He failed of course. Joe Of course; he always fails. -■.rs. Dusenbury The parties who held the mortgage have been quite kind. I strug- gled to pay the interest regularly and always managed it . The principal is now over due. "^hen I went to-day, Mr,, Skinner told me that he had transferred the mortgage to another man, who demands instant settlement or will foreclose g Joe Who is the man? I 18-E MrSc Dusenbury Anacquaintance of your father - a Er x Kawson, (Knock on door L,U,E .) Joe Come in I (Mawson , Frs . Bayliss and Dusenbury enter. Dusenbury last.) IS this the gentleman? Mrso Dusebury Yes, the very man. (I-ause) Joe I think I understand. Mrs, Dusenbury Oh Joel Joe.' what will we do? What will we do? (Weeping) Joe (Soothing her.) Hush mother! There I There J Calm yourself. (l-ause) Mr. Mawson, I suppose you have come to play your trumi-card. Mawson You guessed it I I have. Come, be sensible, Stafford, pere , sign these contracts , and I will add the mortgage as a bonus„ Joe (Has Bus. of looking at him for a second, turns an(. walks up the stage looking out window, pause, Mawson follows him up, arguing in dumb show. Mrs» Dusenbury watches them, then sinks on couch down R. overcome with suspense O Ruth (Kneels to her.) rphere, there mamma, don't take it so to heart. Don't cry. it will be awful if we lose our little home, but if we do , we must all take our share of the sorrow. All the burden shouldn't fall on Joe, Think what it means to him to have to leave college now. Think of how he has denied himself from all of us. Come , mamma, be brave, Anstey (Re-enters.) It's no use« I can manage that boy lAhen his sister isn't around - but when they join forces, they're too much for me. (Turns around, catches sight of Mawson and Joe up in window arguing heatedly in dumb show.) Duke Mawson by all that's in- fernal I What in blazes is he doing here? Mrso Baliss (Swpeeps from down upper L,) My dear Mr. Anstey, have tQu for- gotten me? Anstey No, my dear Mrs - Mrs - (Aside) I wonder what her name is nov/? (Gallantly.) To gaze on your sweet face once is to remember it f orevermore .. Mrs. Bayliss Flatterer.' (Joe a pparently irritated at the conversation with Mawson , impatiently leaves him and goes LdJoE.) Mawson Now listen, Stafford. (Follows after him,) Joe See here Mawson - you must give me time to think. (To Dusenbury who has waited at the back L.U,. ) As for you, I've got something to say to you and I'd better say it outside, (Exit L«UcE. Dusen- bury follows. Exit Mawson L.U.E.) 19-E Mrs,, Baylies ■Well Mr^ Anstey, why dcn't you call me "by name? ^/ho am I? Anstey The most charming of your seXo Mrs, -payliss And my name — Anstey Was Mrs. Montgomery , Mrs. Sayli ^ Was - "but isi Anstey (Grimly.) Wen, you see I haven't "been keeping talo on you ■■ lately. Mrso Bayliss Why you know I married Mr.. Bayliss, and I am now using both the names - Mrs. Montgomery Bayliss,. Anstey Oh yes - yes - how is Bayliss? Mrs, Bayliss I divorced him six months ago, I am free - once more. ( Sighs) An st ey (Aside.) Wcnderwul woman> Devil in petticjats„ Wido™;s three times - once "by death and twice hy divorce „ I wonder what her game is here o Mrs . Bayli s It is "both a pleasiire and surprised to meet you here, Mr, Anstey. ^nstey Tfee surprise is mutual , madam, I and my daughter are visiting my son. Mr So Bayliss Oh yes, your son and Mr. Stafford are chixms here at the college. I accompanied a gentleman who is having a little "business with the latter. l-ossi"bly you kn .w him ~ Mr^ "^awsonl Anstey Oh yes - yes - I knew Mawson. Mrs, Bayliss He will "be very glad to see you, A^istey I don't think he will. There's one thing certain - I won.t "be glad. Mr So Bayliss Then you are not friends? Anstey Decidedly not, I am sorry to hear that young Stafford is having any "business dealings with the fellow, v/ho is a few degrees removed from a crook. Mrs,, Bayliss Why Mr. Anstey •- what has he ever done to you? An st ey IJothingo I never gave him a chance. But he had the audacity to try and start a flirattion with my daughter when, she was at school some two years ago, and by means of forged letters ob- tained an introduction to "her ^ I heard of the affair and told him that if he ever addressed -ither of us again, I would break his danried back - Madam, and take pleasure in doing it,- 20-E Ethel (Calls outside.) 3-apaho I-apalii Anstey I trust my dear Mrs - Mrs-- Mrs. Bayliss ' call Montgomery Bayliss. T^adge is ny first name, You can t-Si^^ me Madge if you wish, Anstey I wouldn't dare. T^'rs,. Montgomery Bayliss, I trust you will excue the vigor of my language concerning Mawson. Ethel I-apah , we are waitingo Ans t ey An d my abrupt departure, hut my daughter is calling » (Exit R,) Joe (Re-enters with Mawson and Dusen hury) Mother, will you promisd never to put your home in jeopardy again at Mr, Dusenbury's solicitation. Mrs, Dusenbury Never, Joe, never. (Weeping) Joe I will sign-- (Turns up lamp on table, takes contract from Mawson.) Good Mawso n GoodI Mrs. Bayliss, witness there, will you? (Mawson and Joe and Mrs. Bayliss at table. Joe signs contract, -^rs. Bayliss signs as witness, Mawson produces copy of mortgage and signs release in satisfaction, which he has already prepared o While this business is going on R= Enter Anstey, Burt and Ethel talking in dumb show.) Mawson Here is the release in satisfaction. (Hands over paper and mort- gage.) Report to me at the park to-morrow at twelve, (To Mrs. Bayliss.) Come, let's catch that train. Good-night , Joe Good-night, (Mawson, Mrs. Bayliss exuent L^UoE» Dusenbury looks around , follows them.) Anstey Don't forget about our business arrangement for your vacation, Joe? Joe I will have to call that off, Mr „ Anstey, although I thank you from my heart for your kindness, I will have no vacation, I leave College to-morrow, Anstey , Burt and Ethel Leave College I Joe Yes, ) I - I - am going to play ball for a living o (l-ause) An steu (Af fended.) Well, you know your ovji business. Come Ethel, come Burt. (Anstey leads Ethel off LoU,Eo Ethel looking back at Joe who stands by table. Burt comes over, takes Joe's hand. Neither speaks) 21-E An stey (Butside) Come along, Burt^ Joe (Signs him to go. Burt exits L.U.E.) Mr So Dusen"bury Joe J Joel I know what this sacrifice means t j you. Joe There is the release - keep it safeiy. (Hands her papers, lights mortgage in lamp. Holds it while it hurnso Song outside, "The Soldier's Parewell,") Mrs. Dusenhury What are you doing? Joe Burning up the mortgage, mother - you will he able to sleep to-night,o See, it is going out of your li e - smoudering - dying dead - it's like my hopes - my dreams of ambition now - ashes - that's all - ashes. (Has thrown himself in chair of table R. Mrs. Dusnebury on her knees by him, he soothing and petting her. Buth on couch v/eeping. Song swells^ Slow c^i"taino Soldier's Farewello "How can I bear to leave thee, This parting kiss, I give thee, I go where duty calls me I care not what befalls me, Farewelli ParewellJ My won true love, FarewellJ Parewelll I/iy own true love." C U E T A I H It II II 11 II II II oooOOOOOOOooo "Home Run , Act II SCE1>IE:- 7our months later. The Garaen and grounas of the Hotel Suburban^o Garoen arop at back v/ith illuminated i-jotel painted on L siae of same. Platform in front of drop with balustrade and steps down R of C <, Set piece representing hotel veranda t^ v;ith steps downo Set piece to match with back drop. 1'/ood-v ings ,- Garden set pieces. Statues etc, bearing lights. Garden benches R and L. Stage cloth painted to represent path and lawn — grass mats etc, V/o od -wings on Ro Garden drop illuminated hotel, V-M^ 3 - V-v (I) Statues. (2) Platform, (3) Entrance, (4) Verandas (5) Door, (6) Bencheso (7) Table, Note;' — Moonlight effect. Hi^ht — t^ie lamps are lighted. 2-S ACT II Music at Ri..e: — Kerry iaow Waltz, Arastey enters from house L stanas on veranoa for a moment, comes slov/ly doum steps takes a ci^ar from his pocket lighta it, puffs it contentedly listening to music. Removes cigar hums -with the orchestra) Anstey (sits on garuen "bench, "beats time with cigar ) La, La, La. (Hiimiing waltz enter from x,« Presaaent Bravn) Brown. Ah, good evening Mro Anstey? Anstey Good evening, sir, gcoa eveningc Br Otvn ^ Are you enkoying yourself? Anstey lie — I'm smoking a cigar^ iir owno V;ell, if you don't like it, xjhy smoke? Anstey doctor's orders. Ke told me I must smoke three a day and no more, and I'm HK^jjii^Hg him, and I don't think they're doing ne any good, obeying I never smoked in my liie, before last week. Brown. Then why do ti now? Anstey I told you — I am doing it f or n^r nerve So Brown I don't think there is anything the matter with your nerves? Anstey Don't youe (gruffly.) That's encouraging. There's nothing ti^e matter vi/ith yours either, as far as I can see. Who the cevil are you anyv/ay? Erown • V/ho am I? Anstey Yes? What's your damned name? 3ro\vn, Yes, I'm Presiaent Brown, You must heard of me? Anstey I can't say I ever had. Brown I am presiaen of the Vall-clu"b. Ve v/ill have a great game to-morrow, Anstey I 'm glad of it . Brown You kntJw myb oys are putting up at this hotel? Anstey IJo, I didn't knov/. Are they? Hov/ many boys have you? Brown He re ? Anstey Yes? Brown let me see--eighteen? Brow Anstey Ero'vm 3-S Anstey Eighteen? Eighteen boys, I congratulate you, Hov^ is their mother? Mother? That 's v;hat I said. You mean their mothers? \nstey Mothers!, Oh I see — you have been married more than once? Srown I have never been married at a 11 = Anstey You ought to be ashamed to own it, with such a big family. Eighteen boys. Have you any girlSo Brown NO sir, I have not„ Anstey I am glad to hear it? Brown Ah I see, Mr^ Anstey, you are having a little joke with me? Anstey Pardon me Mr Green,, I never joke with anyone on such short acquaintance. You have raaae me a confident of your disreputable family se crets^ Brown I have no f amijt^'- .^ Anstey Then what the devil have you been talking about? Brown My ball players? Anstey Oh I see- -Mr Green — I beg your pardon? prown pon't mention it, but ray name is not Green? Anstey I certainly ViTon't mention it, if yon don't want me to. Brown My name is Brov/n, Anstey That's a jackass of another color, but Green or Brovm, it doesn't matter to me. Youare'in the ball business, eh? Do you knov/ a young man named Joe Stafford? Br o^/vn Yes — he's a star short stop. We bank a great deal on Joe. i^nstey He's a very stady young mane Srovlin , You bet he is „ Anste y I never bet? Lrov«Ti I never have to worry about joe like I do about some of the others. You know a big organization like ours, has to be watched and guarded^ The raenebers have to be kept up to concert pitch all the time. They must eat v/ell, sleep well and keep in the best of condition. Every man v;ill have to retire at a certain time to-night. This is the even of the most important game of the yea and outside of the glory--there • s small fortune at stake c Ethel (enters from house.) Papah, Pa pah . Are you out here? 4-S Anstey I certainly am, Ethel. Ethe 1 Do you know that it is pretty nearly time for . ou to go to your t rain? Ans te y (Looks at ►.atch.) V/hy "bless me 3 so it is? Ethel I have something very important to say to 2'Ou "before you go. Anstey How much is it --this time, (To Brown.) Paraon me Mr BJack-- Broivn Brown, sir? Anstey Yes Mr Brown, j ' 11 meet you again sometime liir Brown. Brow" I shall eoteem it an honor, Mr Anstey. Gooaevening, (Exits L) Anstey Good-night. Now Puss, what is it? Ethel (Mysteriously.) I have "been talking to Ruth Stafford, Anstey Have ^ou? And who is she? Ethels Joe Stafford's sister to "be sure- — the little lame girl— don't you remember? Anutey Yes yes, of courseo Ethe 1 And I have found out two or three things about him» And I v^ant to talk them over with you anf Bui't, Anstey Hold on the re c Never mind about Bur to "When you anf your brother get together and attack^it me, I don't run ay show at all, Ethelc But we ^.ant his advice? Anstey No, v;e don't. It seems a suspicious circumstance to me. You are taking more than a common interest in yoimg Joe Stafford? Ethelc No mo e then he desvres pa pah? An st ey I aon't know about that? Ethe 1 . I am sure that he takes more than a common interest in me, Vi/ith your stern business principles — you wouldn't keep me in his debt , v;ould you? Anstey V/hat I "V/hat i ,Do you have the ausurance to look me in the face --an a acknowledge there is some idotic affair between you and that yo\ing man? Ethelc Only you — papah only you. You're the only thing between UH? 5-S Anstey Well, I'll "be — I'll be — Ethel.- Papah, you certainly will be, if you continue to use such language? Anstey I haven't used any language at all yet? Ethel, But you are going too, ana I think it is dreadful. "We're not even stopping at this hotel — only guests here at the oance to-night, "but go on — make a scene j don't scare any feelings, but hurry up ana get through with it before poor Burt comes and sees his aged and respected father making a spectacle of himself c Anst ey Now cut out this "aged father" business right now. Answer me ^ (Joes enters from house with Ruth and Mrs D, Burt assisting the lattero) Ah here you are — now sir — Burt Do you mean me. Dad? Anstey No, I don't mean you, but-— (points at Joe) Joe Good evening, Mr Anstey? Ans t ey Good evening sir. I'd like a minute of your time, sir. Joe With pleasure l^Ir Ansteyo Burt, look after the fo3kSj will you"; (Burt leads Ruth and Mrs D= over to R ogsta^ge., The ladies sit on bench, Burt behind them^ Joe tur-ns expectantly to Anstey) Anstey ITow sir — (clears his throat) Ethel. (aside to Jooo) Don't let him frighten you too much., remember that I am by your side (Joe looks at her in amazement then tvirns to Anstey) Anstey So you have proposed to my daughter? Joe Wh — what i A.nstey Proposed to ray daughter? Joe Pro--pro posed to — Ethel He hasn't pa pah, and you have no right to scold himo He hasn't proposed yet, me Anrtey Diaji't you tell iaxji that he loved you? Ethel He hasn't said so, papah. Anstey Then what the devil — Ethel, There, I knew it wouJ.d come— just control yourself an instant until I can get Burt and Mr, Stafford out of hearingj, before you explode ^ 6"S Anstey Never raina, I am not going to ex;3.1ode„ mi- Staffori, I think is a very sensible young mana and I "believe that he would like to "be assured of a fixed prospect in life "before saddling himself with an incujiib ranee in the shape of a pretty aoll--like, useless "bundle of miJ.linery, reared in luxury petted to exaggeration spoiled "by flattery/ Sthel«^ Papah are you descri^bing rae? If you are^ — Anstey Answer, what could you do to help along a poor man in the battel for existence .- Ethel.: TOiat could I do? V/hy, I'm the greatest hand wjth a chafing dish you ever saw„ Besides, papaJb., we should always have you to fall "back on? Anstey r. Humph, That reraj.nds me of my friend. Hascall of Saginaw--who keeps the hotel. He had two "boys — the last time is came to ray office, I asked hjm a"bout them„ Sam — how are your boys doing? He ansv/ered "Eurtonj those two fellers of mine are getting along great — one of them is an actor and works inthe winter time — the other is a ball p.layer and works in the summer txvxs^ so I alwajaa have one of them at hofue with me, living off the old man, Joe „ That strikes me kino, of hard, Mr Anstey? Anstey What ---hard on the old nmn? Joe ITot it strikes me hard on the baD.l player. Mr Anstey I do love your da,*.ghter ? Ethel 5!here papah, what aid I tell you? Anstey (Growls,) Keep quiet? Joe But, I would have carried my secretto the grave and never spoken of it c as y ou S5.y— I would have assured myself of a position in life, before I would have asked her to oiiare my lot? Anstey Young man, your principle does you honor.; That position may come in a few years and then- Ethel, How rr.any years papali? Anstey Nine or ten— or maybe half a dozen. Ethel, (aghast.) A half a dozen. Oh papah'' «nstey In tne raentime you ought to go back to college, Joe I have signed a contract vhich I cannot honorably break„ Anste y I have lived mainy years, and I never saw a contract vet, thatcouldn't be broken? 7--S Joe I s3,ia hcnora"bly Mrc Anstey. My word is alDCut my noly Bjn\et ab present, anci. I value it too hightly to try to find methods of sneaking out of it . Burt I Bay Joe, tell Dad a couple of your "baseball stories and he may tell you in return, how he played with old Ted Griffen's team--a(;ainst Horace Ne^wnan and the score was 73 to 36, and they only played five inning Sc Anstey I v?as the "best "fungo" Icicker they had in Muscatinej sir-, (Mrs Bay and V/ilkins enter on porch.) Yes Joe tell us? ¥ilkins Say Joe J are your stories true, or do you make' 'era up as you go along^ (Joes makes a sv/ipe at him ^JVilkins dodges and gets Mrs Bay betv/een them,) Coward! would you strike a v/oraan ? Anstey And v;ho is this ycimg man? Joe and Burt unly V/ilkj.ns, Qmnes YeSj only Wilkins„ Wilkins„ Did you catch it? They mean me,, I'm only Viilkins,: ITobody speaks of me in any other 7ra,y "Only Y/ilkins^" pj\ e:vmaination takes place---does anyone fa.il? Only V/ilkins. Has everybody had a piece of pie? Yes , everybody but one, Only V/ilkinS: (Gloomily.) V/hen my funeral hearse pases 'by Joe a,nd Bu:;t Oh cut it-- cut it--- Yvilk:ins I won He Stranger may askj who's being bui"ied,. And the answer will come "Onlj'- V/iliins" and when I reach the heavenly choir, some angel v;j.ll s-sk "V/ho's singj.ng off the key-- and the answer will be--- ''Only Y/i]JkinSc Eur't Y/ilkins, you're a sad d:g all right, ana you 'can't sing? Yi'ilkinSo Oh I'm a dog all right., Ask Mrs Bayli ss---she can sing — but she won't sing for me- Pur me through some of ray tri feks — Mrs B, MaKe me j ur-ip through the hoop---sit up; and beg--plq.y aeadr i Joe Play dead-~yesc Omn es Yes, play -dead.; Pres Brovm (enters sees Joe.) Hello Joe, still up? Get to bed, Joe get to bed. You know what we have before us to-morrow, ani I'm counting on you boy, as much a,s anyone in the team? Joe I'll be there Yrr , Briwn, and v/e'll win. Brown Sood. I'm rounding up the boys myself to-night— -Joe , good rest to you (exits into hotel) Joe Come inside mothero Ruth^ I'll have to send you home soon. (Leaas Ruth over to hotel Burt and Mrs D follov/, ) Good- night Mr Anstey,; (Ansety has been conversing with Ethel) Anstey Joe, I want to see you before I leave? 9-S joe All right, sir. (BUS Joe Ruth Burt and Mrs B exuent into hotel) ^^^^^ And papah, will you? will y^^J^^.^^, I suppose you consider me an ol^^l"^"^^^^^ • Papah, I never consider ,ou as^^eing so old. (coughs.) Ahem, Well, I'm not making any promises^ RemeSber thato (Goes into hotel) Ethel.: .^^, ^j ^ v-im Wiivinq and Mrs B withdravir Yes papaii. (exits after ^^^^ Ji^^^^^^p Dusenbury enters up tack, Music walt^ ?^?:^trtoste;s° of veranda, stops slightly jagged eo^s through to .teps o ;^roduces !ftfe?^^aniYot%.^?f^ru^^^'looS^/for^mtLy---disc^overs he has n one'--sighs and exits R) Wilkins (TO Mrs BJ Now just one, one more little dance. Just one little one. Krs Bayliss V/hat an awful beggar you are? Wilkins, But think, this is the end of vacation,, I've got to go "back to college to-morrow^ (sighs) Mrs Bayliss One would imagine that you were going oack to jail by that lugubrious looko Strange hovj di83a.tisfj.ed most of us are with our lots in this li^ e . ITow, there is Mr Stafford? Wilkins Joe? Mrs BayliGK He has gained a national reputation a.3 a baD.l pla,yer and all in the last few months, and I've no doubt he v/ould be overjoyed to be inyour place, and have yOLU" chance,: \Vi.lkins.; Joe is a serious sort of a fellow, and I am not, Mrs Bairliss I'mraremember that cinfession when you try and make love to me again,, Ah — here comes a gentleman whome I have been longing to see all evening. There's a nice boy, Percy go and get me an ince creqm soda., and get one for yourself, and we'll sit here ujnaer the trees, and finish themj just the two of us? V/ ilk ins You and I? Mrs 5ay].iss You and I, I'll finish with hira by the time you're back? Wilkins I'll fly. (Going to steps of veranda l) What flavor? Chocclate? Pineapple--strav/berry- — lemong--- Mrs Bayliss Bring a chocJ.ate for me ; and bring a lemon for yourself„ (Turning away R) ' lO-S \vi]Jcins,. (aside „) A lemon for myself, I wonder if she means anything. (exits L On veranda enters Maw son RUE follov/ed "by Dusenbury) BuAenbury Maws on, you needn't get so sore about it ^ !, law son J Sore? I'm not sore about anything perta,ining to youn If you want to be a rumdumb, go ahead and be a ruradumb, but aon't deluae yourself with the insane idea that you can do it on my money o Dusenbury ¥ov/ listen? liav/ s on c I'm tired and sick of being touched, I'm enough to worry me without losing s.leep over you? Du seen bury (v/himing,,) I've been usefuJ. to you Maw son ... Oh, that's ancient history* You have out,].ived your usefulness, You're a tool that has lost it's edge, ana your temper, ana I see no future for you, but the scrape pile c Here take this dollar (Gives money.) Go, drive a fev/ more nails into your coffin, and don't strike me for another cent this v/eek„ If you need money, go ask that distinguish step son of jEOurs — Joe Staff ord„ He's Diaae more money out of ball this summer than I have ^- Dusenbiory (Goes up steps of hotel, ) I'll see you. later^ Maws on <. ITot if I "scent you coming,, (Dusenbui'y b\isy exits) Ugh, The whiskey in that feller just oozes out of him. Mrs Eayliss You're more cross than usual ot-nightc Ma u son.. ■ A rijan who has gone through v/hat I have to-day and ^cing the propest^ I face to-morrow, can hardly go around with a grin on his face Krs Eayliss What is the tragedy? Maw s on c I joined the conbina-! ion to "bear" the copper markets The info nnat ion I had led me to put evei-y dollar in the poolo I could raise — beg — borrow or — Mrs Bayliss Or steal? Maw s on ,. Or steal— yes.. Well, old Anstey— -the Copper King whom we thought in tiie wilas of New Mexico showed up.. His millions steadied the market wi;ich we had wavering. Copper saved al.out sixteen points—and there you are „ Mrs Bayliss V/hat are you going to do? Mav/son^ I don't know yet. I am taking the count— the count of mine. I don't know exactly yet "v/here I am at." Mrs Bayliss Anstey and his son and daughter are in the hotel to-night. There are visitng someone there? II-S iCa-j s on Visiting at the hostel, eh? That must plea.se Joe Stafford? Mrs £a.yli3s Please Joe? Ma'.,scnc Of course. I suppose you know that he is stopping here with the rest of the team. They are getting in shape for the great game of to-raorrow; Mrs EayJ.iss Yes--the deciding game. They are sure to win: Maws on ., Yes — so the odds say.. Eut there.. Nothing's sure in base- ball. Mrs Ba.y].iss Young B^i^t Anstey and Joe v/ere a sort of Danon and Phythias at College^ « Maw s on , Yesj he • s a wise young citizen is Joe„ To become son-in-law to the copper king is a commendable ambition., Mrs Bayliss You mean-- Maw s on ., I mean that young Ethel Anstey is gone on him, Mrs Bayliss Impossible , Maw s on ., Why impossible. Don't think you are the only lady who sits in the grana btand regularly and admires Joe, You have several rivals, Por my part, I can't understand what you see in him? Mrs Bayliss Your troubles have turned you brain--- Duke Mawsonc Mav;son^ I'll admitt that. It doesn't however neea much brain to see \i/hat I s ee <, Mrs Bayliss What do you see? Ma\i; s on = I see that yoxx and I have a common interest — we should work together, I like Eth^^l Anstey awfully well. She liked me a little once, at least, I thought so, i me t when whe she was at a sv/ell school in the East , Old Anstey got wind of the flirtation, and there's a search light on ray character, Mrs Bayliss Dear me "-how unfortunate c Maw son c TTTasn't it c I was dropped with one of these dull sickening thuds we read about , I'm just recovering from the shock, and I'm going after her again, Joe (Outsiae on veranda J Come on mother. Here Ruth , let me help you„ (Joes, Mrs D and Ruth appear L) Ruth ^Tiy Joe, you can't guess hov/ strong I am nov;, (Mawson and Mrs Bayliss retwre up stage) I2-S Joe Oh yes I can, but we are not going to take any chances, (ne has his arm around her he helps her dov/n the steps) Mrs Dusenbury followso They reach the bottom ) V/ell little sister, have you had a good time? Ruth Splendid Joe. The music — the bright lights — the hgppy faces of the dancers. It all seemed like dreamland to me. It must be nice to be rich Joe, and be surrounded all the time with beautiful thing Sc Joe Yes— money can buy a great deal Ruth, but it can't buy everything Mrs Dusenbury Ruth, will not be satisfied in our little home now Joe*? Ruth ^ yes, I will Mother, because I had one little peep into jairy land, that is not going to raakeme forg-et that I'm rich too, for I have you Mother, and isn't joe the best brothpr m the world? I told Ethel Anstey that to-night when Ihe cam? over to speak to me-she's awfully proud of fSJt- M? £?stey? ■n ^ . Joe Burt's a good fellow, Ruth,. .y/lh ^ ■'-T^f ^^^ ^®^ ^^^^5 ^^* I couldn't think of him as vrv,. ,1-^ ,^ -, ^'"^s Dusenbury You didn't quarrel? ITo. We like each other too much, I told hf»y pn a-h^,,+ +v. You spoke of that? Yes, and Ethel cried? (Pause.) lira sorry. 4. .^ Ruth a„"d ^a-*-^ou''SLSa„nif "^ =ec?at-that story of the mortgage Tn=. ^^1^ ,, ^^s Diisenburv nothing for himself. Ue^t^^^J^l.^^S^^U:'^'^!^ ir.'y':riiiU\s.ri.\f:z\hi izzi ;!r^^ f--;*. near mv bed fimp vn,, v^rZ ^ , ^■^ ^ °"j ^'^t it i 1 jujr ufcu Tiime , YOU know we ars nnror- v ,s^^„i„ a. . Joe Ruth Joe retire at a ftSn .°^ '"''^''/'^ ^^^ ^^^^ ^ orders to the car r?Ji^^n ^^"'f' ^"'^ ^^^ J^^^ ^i^e to see you to xne car. (They comes towards R U E^ ,-u^ • J , Maws on I5-S Joe f Turns.) yes Mr Mav^son, I'ra just going to see my folks off, and t'11 return. Come Mother, Corae Ruth„ (He i.elps Ruth off RUE. Mrs Dusenbury follows. Mrs Bayliss has "been talking in dimb shov/ with Mawson during proceeding scene) Jlrs Bayliss The scheme you proposed is rediculous. People don't attempt such thin(,s-ni:w-a-days, excepting in cheap melodrama = Mav/son. Reaa the nevi/spapers and you'll find out they do. Read the police reports? Mrs Bayliss Tahnk you. I'm not going to have any police reports concerning any action of mine. (Goes R) Mav;s on * But — (Pollowing) ■WilkinSc .(ehters on veranda with two high glasses filled with "white and chocolate covered cotton for business J Here are the sodas. (Beither Mawson or Mrs Bayliss pay any attention to him) (He coughs,) Ahem? Ahem. My hated rival HB claims all her attentions c I v/ill cal 1 her,, I wonder v/hat her first name is? It should be "Glaays or Gwendolyn." She's a widovi^ — Mrs Montgomery Bayliss. I'd call her "Monty" for short „ "Monty for thee, Ice cream," Ah thanks not bad. "Monty" (calls loudly J Por thee I scream, (laughs foolishly at his own j oke c ) Ha, ha, ha, ( corae s down steps) Mavjson. (Turns smddenly ,) V/hat the devil's the matter^ V/hat are you laughing at? (Wilkins startled stiimbles at the bottom of the steps falls but manages to save the socias) Mrs B Oh — Mr Wilkins — it's you, isn't it? Wilkins Yes, I've brought the sodas. Mrs Bayliss Put them on the table. That's a dear boy, I'll see you later, (exits L 3 E with Tdason following) „ „ V/ilkins +V, i'J ?^^? °'' ^^® table"— boy? \.ell, what do you say to that? (sits at table) j ^ ^ ^^ , Dusenbury (Outoiae) That's all right, I'll get out. If you don't want my custom--all right. Don't shove7 I can get out b3° myself (enters L hastily on veranda as if he'a been shoved I'll shovv you (His hat is throvm on stage.), What are you hL^.J V^^'^- l^^l^ ^ "^^^ ''^y ^° t^eat a gentleman's hat. (catches sight of Wilkins .) Hello Willie Boy auh (Grunts.) Drinking all by yourself, eh? „ . . V/ilkins ^0 — join me if you like I4-S Dusenbury Don't care if I do. V/ilkins Which do y^u preferthe choolate or the Lemon? Dusenbury Chocolate or Lemon? Say, what are you giving me? Wilkin s Your choice? , , . , Dusenbury (shrinks m suspicion, ) oh what? Of what? Wilkins Ice cream sdidasc , , . . , Dusenbury (shuoders.) And you too? Oh, Oh, uru 4., ^1 V/ilkins What's the matter? T,, x^ Dusenbury n?; f'V^^ ^T" think that I want to ruin ray stomach. Oh such an insult, (staggers off L behind house? enter Anstey on veranda Surt ana Ethel following) Ans"t G V That's all right. Go back to the ball-room you two and enjoyyourselves, I've just time to make my train! ' I'll send the auto back for youo ^^^±^i. n ^ ^ Ethel Crood-bye papah? .„. , Anstey (Kisses her.) Gooa-bye little girl-.-don't stay up too late. Anstey Bye. Bye. Burt, be a good boy ana go back to college, to- morrow, Burt I will Lad . Anstey (Hurries down steps*) Jules o Jules. I wonder if that Chauffeur is asleep Jules, I say, (exits L U E) Wilkins (sings at table in a very melancholy voice) I'm so happy, tra--la--la — I'm so happy, tra la — la — I'm so happy tra- la--la--la I wish that I v/as dead^ Burt V/hat's the matter Percy? Wilkins Nothing — nothing at alio (sings ) "I've no friends — so take a >.ick at me. I aon't mina--I'm as willing as can be So kick hard — try your rausculavitee Don't stop at one kick — nake it two or three, Burt What's your kic, Percy? Wilkins I haven't any. I'm not a Kicker. I am the Kickee. Burt Why aren't you up on the ball-room floor, Percy. Haven't you a partner? ^^"^ Y/ilkins I have nothing— but gloomy thoughts. (Bus Burt whispeES to Ethel) Ethel You haven't asked me to dance to-night, Mr c Wilkins? Wilkins V-hat's the use, (V/altz played off the stage) Ethel o Just hear that lovely waltz, and I suppose I have to sit it out. Wilkins Would you J If I-- I mean if you— would I— if I mean-- vou're mean-- ^ Ethel c Yes, I would like that v/altz--if that's what you mean. So come alongc Wilkins I fly (rushes to steps) Mrs Bayliss (enters followed hy Maws on ») Mr, Wilkins, Wilkins (stops) Eh? Mrs Bayliss I've just remembered — I premised you this dance. V/ilkins Eh (Looks from Ethel to Mrs Bayliss ») What a sudden embarrassment of riches, (Peels in pocket produces coin) You ladies v/ill have to flip for me.. I don't see any other v/ay out of it . Mrs Bayliss Flip? What? Ethel The ideao iurt Wilkinb, you are an unspekable crliff dweller, but we will try and save you. Mrs Byliss, two years in the Freshman class has dimmed what -ever intelligence or memory poor benighted Wilkins ever possessed. Give me this waltz? Mrs Bayliss With pleasure--Mr Anstey. (takes Burt's arm they exuent L into house) Ethel Poor Mr Wilkins o It's a shame. Wilkins Ah — she pities me — and pity is a kin to love ■Rhe sympathetic tear — that glitters like a diamond in here eyes is proofs Ethel. What are you raving about? Wilkins It is the moon — the silver moon — tiat — !:thel Well, if the moon has this effect on you, you had better come inside — in any case, I'm going, (exits into house L) Wilkins You can't lose me. (Runs up steps stumbles exits on hano.s and knees.-) I'awson . So far--so good. It was hard work to persuaae Maage Bayliss, but her infatuation for Joe Stafford, and jealousy of Ethel, did the trick. I6-S The brother and sister must be parted to-night. Madge will keep young Anstey in tw/, and that will leave me to make my point v/ith Ethel, She sjall restore me t o any one time looting, or siie shall "be coraprcmised to such an eistenty that the Anstey millions cannot hush the scandal, and then Mr. Joe Staford, I have ray little business to settle with youc You raiist agree to play the game I want you to play to-morrow or :ou'll not play at all. (Joe enters RUE quickly to Joe) Oh, you're back eh? Joe Yes, You w^anted to speak with me? Maw s on . Yes„ You know that I have no more interest in the club„ Joe « I've heard sOa Maw s on . I sold everything barring a reservation which I made of you, and a couple of the others o You read your contract of course. Joe o Of course . Tf aw s on , You play you last game with the club ro-morrow. After that, I can send you where I choosej or wherever I can get "-he biggest price for youo Joe . Well? Maw son. Now would you like to go back to college, ana resume your vi/ork where y ou left it off. That bounuus pre^.tty good, doesn't it? I know your ambition. You needn't answer — now there is a Vi/ay? Joec W way? Wha-t v/ay? Maws on A way in which I'll give you your release, and when I am giving you that, I'm giving you from five to ten t/iousand dollars. Any of the big cities will pay for you. joe. V/hat is the way? Maw son. The deciding game for the championship takes place to- morrow, Tjlio's going to win it? Joe Our"-mine — of course. We'll win — we can't help winning. Maw s on c I don't want it t o win? Oh you don't? And it mustn't win? But it will? Maw son. My friends and I are betting heavily against it winning. Now heres where you come in? Joe Hold up? Whatts this you're driving at? That I sloall throw the game? joe jiiaws on , Joe I7-S Maw son. Exactly, and the price is-— Joe Never mind about the price,. Well, you are just ar out hat I Maw ?. en . always suppo^eayou to be? What ' 3 that ? Joe A dog— and a yellow dog at that, and what do you take me for, that you wxickukx think' with ^^our airty money you can own me body and soul? I haven -t a dollar but ratte rbe like you, I woula wash dishes in a chink restaurant"-or be a hobe for the rest of ray life. Maws on ^ Think of your college, Joe I do. I knew some honest fellow there who were proud to take me by the hand, i never could look them in the face again If I get down to the level & oof a thing like you, vrhat the hell you mean by talking to me anyway. (In growing passion) JSav/sono Think of Ethel Anstey? Joe Don't you dare to mention her name. Maw s on , Why I knev/her before you aid^ Joe o Stop, if you don't vant me to throttle you, £urt (enters door L,) Joe, are you there? Ethel wants to taU£ to youo Joe Yes Burt, (Goes up steps) Maw -b on , SO you are going to play to win to-morrow? Joe Yes— we are all going .0 play to win. All of us, and we are going to win, Duke Maws on, and don't you foreet it (exits into house iiurt follows) 6 xo. Maws on » (Looks after him walks nervously too smd fro, lights cigar) Dusenbury stumbles out from L U E) Dusenbury Joe is a very pig headed isn't he? Mav/ son, (starts J Eh, you, I thought I'd lost you. D".*6enbury No, I'm just looking around.. They put me out of the ban, and — mMawson, Tell your troubles to the judge, and don't bother me? I8-S IXisen'biiry You coulan't do much with Joe, could you? Maws on , You heard? Dusenbury YeSc He gave you "blazes, didn't he ^ Oh, it vjas rich? Ma virs on „ Eorf^et it — forget it » Dusenhury And so you are going to join the "down and out" club. Brother, welcone to our ranks. Ma s on .- IJo chase yourself o (Bitch Y/ilson enters RUE typical toughtwith sweater etc.. I.ouhle v/ith Anstey) Butch Hello— Duke, Maws on ^ Hello Butch c You're just the nia.n I wanted to see. Why--- (Oboe rves Dusenbury listening o) Didn't I tell you to trod? Butch, start him on his way. won't you. You used to be gooa at that when j^bu worked at McGowan, Butch Good J I'm a lallacapoose <, (catches Dusenbury- by the neck of the neck, jsuns him to entrance kicks him^ ) Tag, you're it c (Dusenbury c3a,sps his forehead in pain exits R 2 E) Mav/ s on Thank you. Say, but eh, do you know Joe Stafford? Bitch The ball players-sure „ Maws on 5 To speak to him? Butch Naw. We ain't on visiting terms „ Maw son,, That's funny. Butch What » s funny? Maw cone He said that when you v/ere in the gams s'-ou were a "shine. Butch He did. Mavscn, Yes, a great big stiff j and said that when you left baseball it was a good thing for the game,. Butch TA'hy I'll knock his blockoff. What's eating him. I never aid anything to him? Maws one That's whatnl thought o How are you fixed. Butch? Butch I ain't fixed, I v/ant to see some of the boys and get enough for a beef stew to-night, ana some coffee and — in the morning — Maws on c How would ten dollars hit you? -si^t-Jv.2. I9-S But ch A saw brick, Mav;son , Yes. (Produving roll takes off a bill hands it to Put oh) If you do run up against Joe Stafford to-night and should happen t o do him — do hira well — cripple him — break an arm or a leg and I'll give you ten more„ Eutch I'll break both his legs for that.- Where wil.l I see you? Maws on ^ (Carries on card giving it.) I shall be at that address-- let me know how you come out? Butch But if I'm pinched, (attempts to put card in pocket it falls on stage) Maws on o I'll pay your f ine « Go now--we must not be seen talking together. Lay aroxmd and you'll fall up against him all right. Butch (Growls.) Oh I'll fall up against hira, and I ill fall all over him— before I fi nish with him. (strolls off R 2 E) Mav« s on , (Goes up steps looks off door S,) Ah, young Anstey and his sister are ready to leave a Anstey is taking a glass of wien Vi/ith Madge, if Maage has done her part , I'll win<, Ethel is walking this way with Staff ord<, I must see if Mauge's auto is ready, (Runs down steps hastily a:id exits RUE, Ducenbury enters, business, picks up card follows off R U E) Ethel, (enters with wraps on —followed by Joe) Joe But Ethel, won't you listen to me? Ethel, I can't. You won't do as I ask you. It's just as papah said. You're not in earnest about anj'-thing, eicept yovir horrid old base-ball, Joe I "m pledged in honor tp p3^y to-mon*ows gamec Ethe 1 , If you cared for me-'-you'd give it up this instant, but I won't argue the matter. Papa's ofi'er only holds ^ood those conditions. When a man's trjaly in ilove, he'd do any- thing — make any sacrifice. He'd lie — he'd steal — he'd even corajnitt raurder--and you — you won't even break a contract but you'd break my hea rt (sobs) Joe Now Ethel Ethel. Don't speak to me, I'm going home. Please call my brother I want to go home, (sobbing Mrs Bayliss enters door L) Mrs Bayli.-s Why, what's the matter, child? 20-S ■ , Ethel c (sobs.) IJothing — nothing at all. Mrs Bayliss I don't know v«hat has corae over j'-our brother Mr, Anstey^ He took one glass of v/ine a,nd it seeras to have gone to his head., (enters Burt supported by V/ilkins) Ethe 1 ■VVhat's the matter, Burt? Burt (thickly) I don't know — it seeras like vertigo---a li tie dizziness-- the rooms were ho -t , I'll be all right in a minute, (V;ilkins assists him to bench,) Don't worry sis- it ' s nothing-'-it ' s nothag .. Maw s on , (enters e) Your car is waiting Mr Baylies? Ethel. I wonder if Jules has returned with ours,, Maw s on ; I think he has, Why^ what's the matter with Mr Anstey? V/ilkins He's mildly soused — that's all,, Burt V/ilkins J you're an idiot. Go on Sthel — go to the car-, Joe and Percy will keep me after youa Mrs Bayliss CoEie child„ (She puts arm around Eth^l^ads her off RUE) lAawson follows ^ Joe and Wilkins lift Bur to feet) "■JV ilk ins Steady „ Steady, Old chap-, Burt It ' s funny — I — if I could only sleep for two minutes--I-— I — (sinks unconscious on bench, Heada falls forward on table] V/ilkins This doesn't look like booze. Burt's been drugged, Joe Drugged? By whom? Ethel (screams outside.,) Burt, Burto Joe,, Kelp me, (Noise of automobile) What's that? Ethel's voice =, That man.. Wilkins Joe Lusenbxiry (rushes on R U £„) Miss Anstey s been carried off, Joe and V/ilkins By \i;hom? Dusenbury Mav;son and Mrs Bayliss « They forced her into that a.ufco car, and they are taking her away., Joe Where? Where? 2I-S Here's where he can be found to-night. I sav. him write it J^.lil^ °^S° (Produces card, Joe gmbs card reaas i ,,a, Wilicins ana Dusenbiirv V/liere are you going? cnuaiy /nr, , . Joe (ihrows him the card.) After them, V/ilkins, take care of ^.^^t when he comes too. Tell him v/here I've gcnL ^ ID 4- -u ^ .-, Wilkins Eut v/hat will you ao? ^ Joe ioth'^'faStW)"' °' '""'''' '"'"'■ ''■"' ""-^ "'^"'- ^ r.+ -n ^. r. ^ Butch V/ilson- (enters R 6 E faces himj Hold up Joe Stafford, I ve got something to settle with you = (Maddened $> Out of the way, „ ^ . , ^ Eutch Lo, I said I'd do you, und I'll do ., ou good, Joe fl?°+'''^^^ ^^® Pl°* ^°°? ■^"■'ell, take what's coming to vou U^?ck rtain^' '°^ ^°^"^ ^^^^^ -* -^ -^^^ ' uV)°"^ C U R T A I II, TT ir TT — T TT IT Second Pictjire ronR^ y.^r. T, ^."^^""^ f^^-*-"^ stupified on table. Wilkins trying to rouse hiro Butch endeavoring to rise on all fours Ihaaenbury counts over him one— two— thre— four— five- six— seven— eight nine— ten— You're out o C U R T A I N„ IT II IT TT -ir -rr TT 1"K Act Third, ^ Handsome and rickly furnished interioro (l) Door up R. of C„ (2) Arch with portiers R 2 E (3) Couch at backo (4) Large hay window upper L. obliqued. (5) Two pedestals about four feet high, to hold jardineres, vases of flowers « {&) Arm chair by f ireplace'^-, ((7) fireplace L .. (8) Table. (9) Chairs„ .Telephone at back I. of door. Window at back has curtains on pole. Electric stand lamp on table . Stage dark at rise save for moonlightnst reaming through v/indow. TJawson. (J25ut^i-de) Give Hikara the ksyj Let him unlock the door, (iToise ,<5f .-key in lock)C(Door up R openso Hikara a Japanese servant eHlers stan.ds R of door Ma7;son follows bearing Ethel who is insensible, and' Mrs . Bayliss last) (Mawson places Ethel on couch at back) Hikara' Some light 1 (Hikara goes to table dovm R, on v/hich stands an electric stand lamp v/ith handsome shade, turns on light) (Hikara is an impassive Jap. (doubles with Dusenbury) dressed as Aitb ric^n, dg,rk clothes) So far, so goodi She shows signs of reviving^ (Looking at Ethel) I.frs . Bayliss Send your servant awayo JJav/son HikaraJ (Signs) Hikara exits door RUE) Dron't worry about him! Hikara is all right, he's deaf, dumb and t)lind to every thing outside of my interests o- You can trust him, , 'Jrs, Bayliss. (Impatientdy) Oh, I have no doubt, but please don't make him a confident in my affairs. ITow, Madge don't ^e peevish !"5?e?y thing is going lovely YThy are you nervous? ^^^^^ ^^^^.^^ Vra sorry now that I have lent myself to your scheme. V/hat wx..l 136 the end of this? TTawson , .. ^ ^„^,. o>. ^ few tears a little indignation, perhaps some a efiance, ma3^ ^ fo? my Virtues, and trust and love me forevermoreo Oh, I know the sex^. I^rs Bayliss You think you do - see •- she is awakening. l1a.vsonc Tesc (Quickly- whispers) Leave us' aloneo Mrs Bayo Rememher now - no vioj.ence - or - ]lIawson Or what? Mrs c Bay I'll end this husiness right here and now and restore her to her home o ^ To V7 ^ O TH . (Smiles) I shall "be more than kind. (Mrs Bayliss with a Ytf/'"* ing'gesture exits R through arch)((Ethel moves and sighs ) (Mawson v/ho is at head of couch moves up stage to window L..U..) Ethel • (Rises to a sittj.ng posture^ looks Ro and Lo passes her hand over eyes in a dazed condition,, as if trying to i^iake off stupor , looks around the room gazing on one ohject and then on another, ' giving idea they are all unfamiliar to her) This is not my room.. V/kt pj.e.ce is thisi Strange,-. (Makes her way to tahle ) (Picks up photo) Joe'i' Joe's picture^ Aiil (suddenly remembering) I re- i call it nowfl The woman and that man " he forced me into the auto- I and - ViThere am I? V/here am I? (Runs up to door- 5 opens it) j Hikara ■ (Discovered in doo.x-\vay) The ls.dy most honorable may net leave here yet^ (Close the door) I ■ St hel 1 How dare you J (Tries to open door, .noise of key in lock) Ah ~ j locked - (Beats on door ) I am a prisonerl (Looks around) There j is a window, (Runs up stage L^ meets Mkwson who aters from be- I hind curtains) You? Yo-«i - Dake MawsonI Mawi?;or Yes. Ethel. Lthel (Hysterical) Oh yesj yesj I remember onowc V7eII sir, what do you I mean by this - Lhia' coanedy? Is the jojsi; ended? How'dare you take such a liberty. Have you forgotten that I am Burton Anstry"- i ??r^his'insultf ""'' ^^'^''' ^"^ ^■^"*^'''' ^''-^^ ^-^^ ^"^^ P^y ^^^^^ ' Ma'v7s On ] I am willing to pay any penalty to hear- the sound of your sw^et ' voice again, even if it is raised in anger, Ethel I Lve aotPrt I on a mad impulse and brought you here, Ih i avcwliy oSl^ Sut if you knew, If you only knew the void that came Int^mJ^ S^ ^en I I lost you, you might pity even if you cannot pardon Z. -Ethe 1 You Y/iJ3 take me to my fathe^-'s house at once. Maws on Presently,. Eth.ei •j)Tow., this r.nstant - or' rather, tell m'e - what is, this p^ce, where have you "brought me? I mil go myself ^ Ma,wson IToi a'o* I couldn't permit ycu to do that., ThinJc how the ser- vants would talk if you came home at this hour -uBat tended •. Ser^- Ts.nts will talk ycu knoT^. You shall stay here till morning ahd ws Y7J.11 devise some nlan. some excuse, to save our good namec Ethel Mj' good name? I..Iawson Tesj which I have already compromi sed.- Ethel (in rage) Youl Youl (Rushes up to door again- tries it, finds it still locked) The v/indow' (Goes to windov/) Maws on V/e are fifteen feet from the ground,, Ethel, too high to jump- Calm yovirself and listen to me. Eorget this moment and remember me as T Yfa.s in your eyes two years ago o I wasn't los^thesome to you thenc Ethel But you are' now^ I never thouglit I could despise and hate anyone as I do youo And in the old days- Et}iel Don't mention that time a.gain, I was' a child at school,, sil".iv,, romantic and vholly ignorant of men,. YoLir pose daz;?:led me - your attentions flattered me.-. My imagination invested you with qual- ities you never possess^ and when I realise what a weak^ credu- lous fool I was J I can only despise :jQy3e?i.f _, and I thank Godj my father was so good and v/ise as to save me from my folly.. I^Jawson Your father v/ill Toe very angr.y when he learns that you have taken up your flirtation again, where yoii left it off.-. Ethel ■ My father will learn no s .ch thing c I will tell hj.m' the whole truthy .and of the contemptiljle par-t ^''ou have playedo ^tsTCPfe- shall be picjiisheda Oh^, but jrou shall be p\mishedi I demand again that door be opened^ Ma.v/son You demand? Don't be absurd, my dear girlc I have had an awfu.l lot 'of trouble to get you here and I really can''t let you go so soon'. If you don't like this apartment, vfe wll'l go up stairs to iriine,, l^y flat is overhead* It will be your home too --' our hom.e until your forgiving' dad_. the Copper King, forgives us both and gives us his blessjngc Ethel (Looks at him, then suddenly runs to window, opens it, screams) Help ' Help ^ ■Maw? on K&rel Stop thati, ((Seizes her, drags her back, she struggling Maws on 4--K sc:r'eams) Stop it - darn you, or I'll strangle youl -■^the 1 (Fights him loeating hJm on Torealst v/ith fists) You devil': You devil" (Breaking away, goes down R) iJaY/30 n ' Devil, eh? Well I'll show you what a kind devil i can "beo I'm going to kiss you for every blow, (Advances on her) Mrs Bs.yliss (Enters) (Enters- coming "between them) ThJ.s has gone fai' enough* Maws on What - you interfere ? Mrs Be I interfere! Tiawson Aga,ins t me? Mrs c Eayc Against you., I was mad to help you' in the fj.rst place, hut jt is not too late to repair my fault.- Mav/son V/hat do you pr'opose? Mrs Bayliss I propose this gir-T shall go to her home* Maws on And j.f I refuse, v/hat then? Mrs Bayliss Vflaat then? V/hat then? I shall find ire an s to make you harmless o ' Attem.pt to stop her., and you'll sleep in a police cell to-niglrl. c Maw's On You have forgotten our T3ai"gainc Mrs Bayc H"0; hut I am rememhering that I am a woman, v/ho is not altogether without siTmpathy and shame o Mav7S on This virtuou.s impulse is startling' and amusing c Mrs 3ayo Duke MaY/son^ you will leave my apair'tments at onceo ' Mav/son If I do J fehe goes v/i.th me. Mrs Bay (goes up to telS.phone) (Takes' it dov/n) (Business) Hello, central! Give me Union Poli'ce Station. (Mav/son utters ejaculation of rage, rushes on her. Mrs. Bayliss levels r'evolver on him v/hich she ha,s kept hidden till nov/) E?:ack* Back I Mav/son Ah J you'd shoot; m.e . eh? Mrs Bayliss As I v/ould a mad dogo (continues at' telophonSj vn.th. pistol still menacihg Mav/son)' Hello • Hello! Is this I'Fnion Police Station? Yes ^ I am lilrs., Montgomery Ba.yliss, Ten Park Terrace- Apartment B-. Burglar in my rooms threatening violence, send help. Yes, Mrs. Bayliss, Ten Park Terracel (Hangs up receiver) Nov/ Duke Mav/son, v/ill you go now or wait for the patrol wagon? Mav/son ((Pa.use) You v/in^ 3!- suppose you know v/ha't this "business bb ans for you? 5->K Mrs Bayliss Yes ,. MavTSon You will lose every dollS,r you have put into my ventures, and you will lose Joe St affords Mrs iiayliss God TJawson (Moves to door) (Pause) Hikara- (Kiiocks on door) Hikara^ Unb- lock the door- Hikara (Business with key) (Outside) Ihe'door is open^ (Opening door) If it please you, most honora'blen (Mawson exits ^ slams door suddenlj'-, locks it from outside) Mrs liayliss (Goes to door tries it) He has locked us in again- Y.Oiat nev/ deviltry is this? Never mind, tkke heart j my child, he.Tp will soon come, and you will be safe^ Try and forgive if you cannot forget my share in to-night's worko Ethel What did he mean Isy saying you would lose Joe Stafford" V/hat is Joe Stafford to yoix? T.Jrs B&,yliss Mro Mawson thinks I care foi- him« Ethel ' Do you'? Mrs Bay lis s YsEj I v/as the cause of him leaving college^ It was my money that Mawson used to further the result o I thou^t Joe and I would Toe brought closer to-gether^, Ethe 1 You were cruel-. It's Bayliss I thought I was kind,. Put yourself in my place (, Ethel I can ' t , Mrs Bayliss Why not - you love Joe too- 2thei I„_ Mr s Ba yli s s And he loves you - he doesn't care for me - that makes the dif" f erence o Ethel (Hears noise outside window) Look there:^ There^ There's some- one at that window. '■( Joe appears climbing over sill, the light falls on his face',, Ethel clutches Mrs. -Rayliss* ann, she has raised her pistol^) Don't i'Ou see \7ho it is? (Screams) Don't shoot.. Don 'to It's Joe: It ^s Joe : ( Rushes to him hysterically sobbing) Joe- Joe (Takes her in his arms, soothing hera) Donjt cry, poor little girl You're safe, I'm here^ (To Mrsr Bayliss) This is a pretty night's work for you and your partner; isn't it? Mr s Bayli s s You knov;: 6"K Joe Yes - I knov/ the girl 's Tarother kno-ws oy this time„ Thej' must have roused him from tho drug you gave him, and he ^11 settle accounts with Duke Mawson if there's anything left of him after I'm through-, V/here is he? I-Irs Bayliss He's gone: How did you get up to the v/indov/ ? Joe' By a ladder I found j.n the yardo (?lrs Bayliss goes over to v/in- dow) Yes^ it^s there yet. hut vre v/on't need it c We'll leave by the front door, v.'on 't we'Etheit? Comet Ethel ' TChe door is locked on the outside-. Joe (Tries it) So it is c Well, we will see if this key will fj.t it. (Lifts down jardj.nier from pedestal, picks up pesdestal which he uses on door as "battering ram. smashing panels., etc) door flies open) ((To Ethel) Come- UiTav/son and Hikara enter) TJawson Hikara- "Jui jitsu" this fellov/- I'll take care of the girl^ (Hikara throws himself on Joe) (Bell of Police patrol heard in distance) (They westle to C of stage ) (Mawson seises Ethel v/ho .screams ) (Mr^ Bayliss after vainJ-y snapping her pistol at Mav/son drops it J and gr-abhing up scarf from hack of couch thrcv/s it from behind Mawson over his face and throat ■< blinding and half choking him, he releases Ethel who runs screaming out of door) (Joe has worked Hikara to '-.dndowj catches Hikara R wrist v.ith both his hands turns suddenly and throws him over his head through window; ( "The flying mare" ) (Glass crasho Mawson has freed himself of the scarf and has attacked Mrs Baylis's with black jack^ baby's rattle) beating her to insensibility., She falls JjcC,-, Mawson strikes Joe in back of head as he staggers back from window,, N.B^ Be particular to time all this action) Joe falls R of C) (Bell of patrol wagon sounds close outside) (Noise of v/heels and horses' hoofs) Mawson The police- no escape by the door - Ah, the ladder at the v/in- dow,; ((Drops the black jack; rushes to window) (Cassidy the policeman's head and shoulders, appear at casement ) (Mawson starts back) (Wilkins enters door R UE Burt supporting Ethel follows) (Joe has struggled to his knee by this time) V/ilkins .^ You can't make it' Officer Cassidy is using the ladder, I'm guarding the door „ Duke Mav/son- Throw up your hands.- (Pulls big revolver, levels it ) P I C T U R E» ' CURTAIN. 2nd Picture:- Mav;son and the Jap Hika.ra handcuffed together at back* Cassidy the policeman guarding them,, Joe ia chair L of table R Ethel kneeling to him:. Burt behind him« V/ilki.ns has raised Mrs „ ^ayliss ' head and shoulders, she has revived and is pointing at Mawson r CURTAIN, ii' n" i:" II II II II I-Go Act Pourth- SCENE: Behind the Bleachery. Passage lead?-og to the Clu"b house, TIME: The Next afternoon^ Ta"b, / / / U 3 \ / \ L CD Home- plate. (;2)) Scrim^ (3)) Door, A Serial drop with transparency not ahoire eight feet wide in C, The drop is hung ahout two.. It is painted to rep- resent high fence joining club house. Siuall set pi.ece an Lc to car;ry out entrance to Club-house. Woffid wings mask on Ro Tal) hung "behind scrim for hacking when lights go up behind scrim for backing, representing perspective view oT field- bleckcrs etco — oooOOOOOOooo- 2-K Act fourth c (At' rise shouts and cheers outside.. As touch noise as possiTDles ScBo Use "Board clappers" for applause oExclamati ons of "That's a' rank decisiorie" "Bum:" "Slug him.." "Slug him." "Slug him." (Pause) (Silence) Voice (outside ¥/ith megaphone) YTeli: \7ell°- Vfell^ (Big laugh) (Applause again) Then howls and jeers.) Boo: Boo: Yah" Yah: Voices Rotten: Rotten^ Rotten^ Voices Hit him v/ith a pop hottle-? Kill him: Kill the umpire, (Nois'e ad lih kept up) (Enters Ethel and V/ilkins from JoiiK 'cluh house.^ Ethel very excited-. Wilkins endeavoring to calm her«) Ethel I never heard of such a piece of injustice in my life and if I were a man and pretended to he a fi'iend of Jo'e like some masculine individuals I know, I wouldn't put up with it^ V/ilkins I know it's pretty rav/, liUss Ethel, hut v;hat can we do? Ethel Do? Do something - acti Don't talk„ Talking is a femi.nine' pEsrogative. Wi Ikins So I've noticed., I mean - (Ethel glares at him) So I've heard- Miss Ethel, the president of a hall cluh is like a little Czar = Ethel The president of this hall cluh is a low spirited, villainous featured and ill-tempered creature and before I go home I'm going to tell him so. V/i Ikins Hush " that won't help matters c (restraining her) Ethel It will relieve my mindo '(President and Joe enter from hluh- house) Here comes Joe novfi President There's no use of argument, Joe Stafford, you're suspended and that's all there is to it „ Joe You heard what Manager Chauncey said. President Yes, I heard ~ that cuts no figure with raco Joe It ought to. He knows hall - he knows your players and he's on the levelc The opinion of a square' man ought to he worth every- thing to you if you want to he justo President Do you insinuate I don't v;-ant to he just? Joe' I. never insinuate anything, IJro President, I always speak out my mindo President Don't forget young man, I am the President of this cluh.. Joe I wouldn't care if you were President of the United Si^ateso I've never heaten the devil around the stump and I v/on't heging nowc You're casting a stigma on me that may last me through the rest of my li fe and I won't stand for it, that's all. I won't endure it without a protest o President You knov/ the ugJ.y talk that 's going around' J'oe I only know what you tell mc .> President Y/ell there is, '^/hy the common report on the Toleachers is that Duke Mawson approached several of the players with a brite- Joe I know of one he approached- President Oh you do? Joe Yes c President lITho? Joe Myself J and I advis'e you, Mrc President, man to man, donH you ask me if i accepted it, (President draws "back) And I*li tell you another things that if Duke Mawson approached any others of my brothers in the club, he got the same answer he got from me.. President I'm sorry Joe, but I cah 't take the risk in letting you playj that is why I told Capt = Chauncey to put i^inkhouser in^ \7iakins You are taking an awful rj.sk with Shinkhouser ~ Funkhouser is a shine President (to Wilkins) Y^ho are you? \7ilkins Percy Wilkins, Esq^ Class of 1911^ Bah". Rah'. Rah: President Wellj don't you butt in here, this is not your funeral. V/ilkins UOj but it will be yours as a baseball president if you sign many more punk players like ITunkhouser^ Presidenit (Irritated) Shut up' You see, Joe I'd like to but i can'tc Joe You don't beli.eve thes., lies? President Nope -^ 1 Can't say that I dOc Joe You know that Chauncey want s me out there " - President Yes, he begged for you - and knov;ing that you disobeyed orders and instead of going to bed •- ycu were out all nights Joe He knew why - ray friends here know v/hy - My God, man, if you knew the whole story, you'd give me a chancer,- The time is pre- cious, let me go in and help to win this game. President I can'tc Public opinion would condemn me too much if we lost it and you were playing I'm sorry but I can't back up against public opinion -• I can't - and I won't try.. Joe That's it, you won't try. Sthel Joe, don't appeal to that creature any more.. Come with me. 4->K I can't Ethelo I must do my duty humiliating as it is, I have given my pledge to fulfill a contracts I will keep that pJedge My honor demands that I wait in there., (Points to cioah house) until the game is finished^ Until it is lost or won'o They may need me yet to win it, who ImowSo (exits into house,) Ethel (in temper) You mean, ahominaTDle, outrageous , ugly tyrant- I'd like to -• (approaching president) President., Hully gee: (Buso runs away into club house) (Wilkins stops her, she iDursts into a fit of crying) Ethe 1 Where is Burt - I want my brother —I'm going home - (Wilkins soothes her. ad lib bus. "^hey exuent Lo) Butch Wilsonc (Enters L.IoEc) Agh: (Disgusted) Pern guys give me a pain, and dats what dey call ball now-a-days'. (Takes flask out of pocket) When I played in Paterson, NcJ^ we had a team as was some team. (Takes a drink) There was me - and Moloney - Pug Shackleburg, Reddy Pogarty and Mose Waxelbaxjm. They called us the "big five" A guy could take all de suds there be wanted to in Paterson NcJo as long as he delivered the goodso Why we trimed on "beer" then and nov; dey drink Mineral water. Dey make me sick, (Takes another drink) (Mawson enters R) Mawson Ah: You're still at it, Butch? Butch Hello, Boss: Say I thought you was pinched. Mawson I'm out on bail. (Looksat Butch' s eye which is black) Where did you get that eye.. It"s a "beaut-" Butch I ran into Joe Stafford's left. Mawson And he licked you, eh? But ch Naw: He can't lick me , He just slipped a few in that I wasn't expecting, but I can do him in a finish,, Say, what's your trouble? Why was you juf^ged? Mawson Oh - it don't amount to anything. I won't be prosecuted^ They don't dare. (Going L.) Butch Say Boy, you don't want to shov/ yourself to the "Pans" or they'll lynch you sure., •.^ Mav/son What do you mean? " Butch Why it's all around among the bleakkers that you are betting against our home talent, and you tried to bribe a couple of the boys to throws the game. Mawson They can't prove it » (Shouts and yellow outside as before) Sutch They don't have to prove it* Some of the boys will just take a punch at you on principle I heard a feller tell another feller, that his little brother heard Cap Chauncey say if he saw you around the Club-house, he'd spank you in the kissar with a bat^ so take a tip. and don't go around expanding your chest 5:n the sunlight = 'Keep dark: Bo: Keep dark: 5-.K T>Jav/son VJhat's.-the score? But ch Just noYf two to one against the home boys o liawson Good '• What inning? Sutch De at Bo Kanson The eighth - eh? ' Sut ch Dats \/hat I said •- "de ate.." Tfe-wson How is Joe Staffard showing up? Eutch He aint showing "ap« Maws on mi Sut ch They say he':? laying off o liiwson I thought that knock on the noodle would fix hinio But oh' I didn't knock him on the noodle^ He wouldn't give me a chanceo V/hen I v/oke up, he'd gone, the coward I Maws on If/ho 'a playing" Short?" B-atch FunhouserJ Say, what do you know about that? 5\inkhouj5erl That slob? Bufch YesI That dubl That cigar sign* That Dutch Indiano Their pitcher's got him scared to death.-. Mav/son Is he doing any hitting? Butch (In contempt )■ Hiting? ^/hy he couldn't hit the water if he fell out of a boat ^ The crowd has been calling for Joe Staff ord- that is some of the lani, - others don't want him, he's under suspicion. They think you bribed him and the President won't let him play,. Maws on Good- 80 od" Things are comj.ng my way^ Ah: (Looks off R) Here are some people I don't want to see,-, I'll take a peep at the game, But ch All right ~ go as far as you like j but Virhen they shovel up your remains, and put you in the undertaker "s ice box, don't say I didn't put you wisec Mav/son Oh pooh" (exits L„IcEc) Butch Pooh: Pooh'- yourself '• I think I'll go after him. and make one more touch before he dieso (exits L I E) '(Shouts and noise outside as before) (Enters Dasenbury, Mrs* Dusenbury and Ruth) Mrs Dusenbury (V/ith nev/spaper) Sut the paper says — 6-K Dus enbuiy I don't care what the paper says- Joes all righto The news- papers always exaggerate everything. Joe is a public character since he entered "baselDall and he can-'t have a pain in his "big toe now- without it isn't published^ Don't you worry about him- I don't. IJrSv, Dus enbjjrr"/ No J you never worry about anybody^ except yourself. DusenlDury ^ Nobody worries about me, and look at the way I supfer, !Jrs, Susenbury Suffer: (Contemptuoui^ly) Dus enbury Yes, just consider my mental anguisho (Shouts - applause and noise outtside as before) Ruth Can't we see Joe and speak to him? Dus enbury Wait until the game is over^ '(Enter Ethel, Burt Anstey and Wilkins from Blub-house) Ethel It's an outrage - that's what it is, Burt Now little sister-~- Ethsl Don't "little sister" me j I -.von't have ito I^m glad I told that cross eyed president or whatever he is ~ what I thought of him,, He'll remember me - he will= The ugly disagreeable things Poor Joe a The idea of putting him on the bench and having an other man play his position- and Joe sitting there eating his heart out « Y/ilkins All the boys of the college are as disappointed as you are - Miss Ethel, Burt The president said the charges were toe serious for him to risk putting Joe in the game, and there was no time for investi- gation , V/ilkins ' Well, the home team will lose anywayo Ethel I hope they v/illj and to think I had set my heart on seeing Joe knock that other side''s pitcher out of the box, Burt Ethel' Ethe 1 Ohj I don 't care » Burt And yesterday you said you'd never speak to Jee again if he didn't accept Dad's offer, and quit the game right then and there u Ethel This is not yesterday - this is to-day'. I have exercised a womans ' privilege, and changed my fnindc I'm so mad - I could cry my eyes out,, (catches sight of Mrs, Dusenbury and Ruth, runs to them, hugs and kisses them) (Business Dusenbuty attempts to get into the game, and offers to embrace Ethel) (She snubs him) Voice (Outside through megaphone) V/eli: Well" Well- (Laughs outaiide and applause) DusenlDury I thinJc I'll see what's doingc, (exits LdcEo) ■ Wilkins (to Burt) Let-s take it in,. Bux-t I have no heart to wa.tch it v/ith Joe out' of the game (Turns R) ^Wiy, look- Look: Don-'tthat look Jike Mrs = Bayliss' red car? SriSiJfins Yes J, Is it possible that she has 7entur-ed out, and in her sondition? •Bu-rt • Why she was at court this mornings, \7ilkins Yes, tut — (Crosses, exits R l(E) (Outside) Rotten'- Rotten^ Rank» Kill him: Kill him-' Go on, osash him- Pour eyes'' (Jeers and groans) (Pause) Dusenhjcry (Rushes on) (All excited) Burt What's the matter? BusenlDury A theological student just tried to Torain the umpire with a pop iDOttle, iDUt the police saved him^ Come on and see - this is a grand game, (Runs off L I E) (Enter's V/ilkins. supporting Mrs„ Bayliss o She moves with difficulty,, A veil covers the side of her facec ) Mrs Bayliss Thank you, Mr,, Wilkins^ Hfelp me to the dooi- of the Club-house, and then you can leave meo I have a word to say to the president I would la Te come sooner - had I been strong enough., Wilkins Anything you can do now'- I fear wouJ.d Toe useless, Mrs... Bayliss- the game is nearly over\, Busenhury (Rushes on) They are commencing the Ninth innj.ngj and the score is two to tv/o o 1)0 you' hear, you fellows? Come on if you wan-t to see any of the game^, Two to two: Two to two: Tv/o to tv70°tooty Willcins Sjjre u's your imitation of a locomotive, and get out^ We're engaged, I)usenTDury Engaged? V/ho? The lady and you? Fy congratulations.- Name the fj.rst Doy after me., (exits LIE) Ml' s Bay li s s What amends that can te made Joe Stafford for the injustice and humilation put upon him this day - sha.ll "be made.> They must listen to mee The stock I hold in the CIuTd will compel them to listen, Mrs Bay.^ Stops the "bat "boy who enters L) Where are you going? Boy • Got a messate for the President. Mrs Bayliss Tell' him thAtI am here., Mrs, Bayliss, and I must see him at once '■. ■ ^ Boy Yes 'mo (exits into house.) Y/i:(lcins , I think I'd rather have that lady's friendship than her dislike (Noise outside. Voices heard) That's himi Oh you renegade i Kick his slats in, do him - do him good") Sut ch (Outside) Don't hit me J I'm not his friendc (Roar outside kept up) (Butch enters L) HelpI Tlui'derJ Police' (runs across the stage exits R I E) President (Enters from GluhhousCj followed "by Joe) Dus enloury (Rushes on) The molD are after Mawson, they'll kill him if they get him,. Seej he's running this way., (exit L) Maws on (Enters L hatless and loleeding) Damn them,' I'll- (staggers at door) President On your way] You can't come in here^ Joe ^Ihy not I Do you want the man to "be killed? Presidents Oh, you stand up for him - that's naturals Joe I stand for fair play^ I've no use for him, maybe not as much as youj hut I v/on't see him murdered when I can raise a hand to save him, Dus en'Dury (Rushes on) S'unkhouser is spiked 1 i'unkhouser is spiked^ Joel The fans are calling for you. Mrs., Baylisso Joel Go put on your uniform - President , But - TTrs Baylisso Do as I tell you Joe, you are going to finish this game and you are going to win it,, Joe I'll try,l Help me, Burtc (exits into- house. But follows) President .: Madam, I'll ]ra ve you understand that I am President of this cluh and I don't permit an3' i:,terf erence „ I say that Stafford shan't play. IJrs Bayliss. And I say he shall o President o We'll see. Do you think because you hold a f-ew shares you can come around and dictate to me?' LIrs,. Bayliss I own more than a few shares, Mr, President o I purchased all that were held "by that man.. I nov; hold fifty one shares and I shall vote them personally next meeting to despose you from your poei- tion = Bat "boyo (Runs on) A message from Captain Chauncey, important = President,, (Opens it) (Reads) "Can't do without Joe Staf fordo ?unkhouseK a dead one - Was to lead "batting last half of ninth, must have Joe" Chaunceyo" ''■"ilkins^ Hooray e Hooray. Rah, rah, rahi Of course he must have Joeo Here you,. ( Gra"bs "bat "boy; Here's a dollar,, Tell him Joe's coming as fast as he can get his clothes on, tell him the !T1. President says so= (The President makes a 'swipe at Y/iUcinSj misses him) Tell him Mrs , Eayliss says so. Tell him I say "so.-. I, Percy Wilklns ^ Esq; Class of 1911. Rah^ rah_, rah'' Mrs Bayliss Well ^ Mr^ President^ Pres ident (to Boy) Tell' Mrc Joe Stafford to report to Captain Chauncey (turns to Jlrs., Bayliss ) My dear Mrsc. Bayliss may I offer my ar;,. and escort you to the grand stan d? (Music- "She 's a Grand OJ.d P.lag Mrs. Bayliss ; You may.. (She taJ^es his arm) (They exuent R V/illcins, Ebhel._, Mrsc Dusenhury a.nd Ruth following) (Mawson j.s clinging to door of clu^bhouse as the lights go out in front) C H A N G ES College ye31 through changes Music- Grand Old ?lag •' until final Curtain) The lights go dovm in front - The floods R and L light up "behind the scrim - Joe is seen at bat - The' catcher and umpire also seen - Balls and striker are calledr> Suspense kept up -■• at last Joe strikes the "ball and runs off L of stage) (Voices cheers and applause-)- are heard) ' Voices Come on Joe: Come onj etc,:' (Joe makes circuit "behind oack drop, reappears sliding to plate., Pigure of opposj.ng catcher over him-- catching hall.) Umpire's voice o Safe: Cheers outside