PS 635 .Z9 S3778 Copy 1 Dolly Travers' Inheritance A FLANAGAN COMPANY CHICAGO Popular Entertainment Books ALL THE HOLIDAYS. By Clara J. Denton. Contains 34 dialogues, exer- cises, and plays, and 36 recitations for all occasions and all grades. 201 pages. Price, 30 cents. PLAYS AND COMEDIES FOR LITTLE FOLKS. By Marie Irish. Con- tains easy dramatizations of six familiar child stories and seventeen origi- nal plays and comedies for children, ages five to ten years. 172 pages. Price, 30 cents. CASTLE'S SCHOOL ENTERTAINMENTS. The best all-around books of recitations, dialogues, tableaux, charades and drills for all grades. Four books, each having over 200 pages. Price, each, 30 cents. DICKERMAN'S DRILLS AND MARCHES. Seventeen new drills and exer- cises for the lower grades. Music and many illustrations. 86 pages. Price, 30 cents. FAVORITE SONG PANTOMIMES. By Marie Irish. A collection of twenty-six of our old and favorite songs arranged with full directions for pantomiming. Frontispiece illustration. 112 pages. Price, 30 cents. THE NORMAL DIALOGUE BOOK. Humorous dialogues, tableaux, cha- rades, shadow scenes and pantomimes for school exhibitions. Thirty-one selections in all. 181 pages. Price, 30 cents. PRACTICAL DIALOGUES, DRILLS AND MARCHES. Has twenty-two exercises for all grades. 152 pages. Price, 23 cents. THANKSGIVING ENTERTAINMENTS. Contains 77 recitations, 12 dia- logues and exercises, 2 acrostics, 3 drills, 10 songs, 12 tableaux, and 32 quotations. For all grades. 144 pages. Price, 25 cents. CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS. Has 72 recitations, 11 dialogues and exercises, 2 acrostics, 3 drills, 8 songs, 4 tableaux, and 33 quotations. 160 pages. Price, 25 cents. THIRTY NEW CHRISTMAS DIALOGUES AND PLAYS. For children of all ages. 175 pages. Price, 30 cents. THE NEW CHRISTMAS BOOK. Almost wholly original, introducing many unique and novel entertaininents. 165 pages. Price, 30 cents. WASHINGTON DAY ENTERTAINMENTS. Has 55 recitations, 13 dia- logues and exercises, 4 drills, 20 pantomimes and tableaux, a mock cere- mony-, 10 songs, over 100 quotations, stories, and facts. 176 pages. Price, 30 cents. Send for Comnlete Catalogue of Publications. A. FLANAGAN COMPANY: CHICAGO Dolly Tra vers' Inheritance H ipia? in Jfour Hcts BY LILIAN STAIR SCHREINER Author of - The Heavenly Twins A. FLANAGAN COMPANY CHICAGO 'l%^\','\- COPYRIGHT, 1915, BY A. FLANAGAN COMPANY TMP96-00T323 0>CI.D 42534 QIC -6 1915 CAST OF CHARACTERS Elliot McDoweli • In search of a gold mine. Tom Deering . . . . • " Only a Boy. ' ' Dick Snodgrass • The grocer's assistant. Maurice Seymocr, Esq The family solicitor. Hans Von Unterwalden In search of a sweetheart. Jack Mugwump A tramp. j\Irs. Travers. . . . • • . .Early education neglected. Janet Denton A "new woman." Elize Denton. • .A ''rose of yesterday." Gretchen Lindenstrasse Just from the "Fatherland." Dollie Travers • . . . . "Sech a child, you know." Butler, servants, and characters in mask ball. SYNOPSIS Act I — Library of the Travers home, an evening in June. The mysterious burglar. Act II — Garden of the Travers home, the morning after. An interrupted proposal. Act III — Library of the Travers home, the night of the Mask Ball, three weeks later. A plot frustrated. Act IV — Library of the Travers home, the next day. A birth- day party. Time — The present Time of Presentation — About two hours COSTU:\IES Elliot ^McDowell: Very stylish business suit, eye glass, and cane. Courtier's dress of the Elizabethan period in mask-ball scene. Tom Deering: Evening clothes in first act. Any desired masquerade suit in mask ball scene. Young man's suit in other acts. Rather careless in api)earance. Dick Snodgrass: Grocery boy's costume, white apron, etc. Carries ba.sket, ]\Iaurice Seymour : Business suit for elderly gentleman. HzVNS Von Unterwaldex: German immigrant's costume of the most pronounced type, wooden shoes, etc. Jack ]\Iug^vump : Tramp 's make-up and costume, over which is worn an old woman's skirt and shawl. Large bonnet drawn down over the face. Carries basket. Mrs. Travers : Evening gown with opera cloak in first part of Act I. In last part, dressing gown or kimono. Colonial costume in mask ball scene. In other acts, afternoon dress of elderly lady, but untidy and overdressed. Elize Denton : Evening gown with opera cloak in first part of Act I. Dressing gown or kimono in last part. In first part of Act II elaborately trimmed morning gown. In last part pink muslin dress, pink parasol, and hat with long plume. Any fancy dress costume in ball scene. In last part of Act IV, plain dark dress, and made up very pale. Janet Denton : Evening gown like the others in first part of Act I. Kimono in second part. Fancy dress in ball scene. In the other acts, a very plain street dress. Gretchen Lindenstrasse : Maid's costume, cap and apron. Light hair in plaits. Last part of first act, short striped petticoat with white nightgown over it. Nightcap. Dollie Travers : In first part of Act I, short gingham dress, having appearance of being out-grown. Apron if desired and hair tied with ribbons. Dressing gown or kimono in last part of Act I. In ball scene, a fancy costume of black chiffon or net spangled with stars, and short full skirt. Car- ries wand. In sleepwalking scene, nightgown. Hair down. In last act dress longer and hair done up but still childish in appearance. DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE ACT I Library in the T ravers home. Handsomely furnished. An old fashioned desk in a conspicuous place. A wide arch- way covered by closed curtains at back, L. Entrance door at back, R. Couch R., facing front. Gretchen discovered standing L. Gretchen : Acli vy haf I to dis country come ! I can not de English spik. I like not de peoples in dis house — only de kleine Dollie. She is goot. But de missus and de Fraulein Elize und Shanet — Pouf ! — I like dem not. Dey are so mean to de kleine Dollie. (Knock R.) Ach, was ist dass? Come in! (Enter Dick R.) Dick: Hello. (Aside) Darn my buttons, if that isn't the neatest girl I've seen in a coon's age. (Aloud) Hello there, Agnes, or IMollie, or whatever your name is. How d'youcio? Gretciiex: I been wohl — no, well, danke. Dick: Donkey! Call me a donkey, do you? I like your manners. Gretchen ( frightened) : I spik not de English sehr goot. Dick (laughing loudly): I should say not. (Sitting on. table) Well, where 's the rest of the push? Gretchen (confusedly) : Poosh ? — I know not dat vord. I — - Dick (aside): What a fresh little cucumber! Guess I'll jolly her a little. (Aloud) So you don't know what "push" means? Well. I'll tell you. It means the whole bunch — your mistress, Elize, Janet, and Dollie — all of them. Now, do you savy ? Gretchen (hands up in horror): Savy, punch, poosh I Ach ! 5 6 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE I know nocldings ! (Crying) I tink I go back to mine Fatherland. Dick : Here, don 't cry ! Come here, now. (Takes hand) Let me give von a few lessons in English. You'll soon learn. Now that word ' ' push ' ' — that 's a fine one. When some one comes and asks for your mistress and the young ladies, you must say ''the push has gone to a party," or ' ' the push is out walking. ' ' See ? Gretchen (delighfcd): Ja, I see. I will that word remem- ber. Poosh — Poosh — Dick (laughing): You're a good one, but my boss sent me up to get tomorrow's orders. Where's the missus? Gretchen : Orters ? Ach, ja ! You wish de housekeeper to see. She iss in de ki — kitchen. Come, I will you de vay show. (Going L.) Dick: Gee, you're so green you'd kill all the bugs in a ten acre field of potatoes. Paris green has nothing on you. (Both exit L.) Gretchen (reentering L.) : Ach das ist a fresh fellow. (Enter Dollie door E. C.J Dollie : Ah, Gretchen, you here ? Isn 't it time for you to be in bed? Gretchen : I must for de laties wait. Dollie f seating herself wearihi at table): Where did they Gretchen: I tink to ]\Irs. Shones. IMiss Dollie, vy dond you go? Dollie : Why, don 't you see ? They never take me any- where. They leave me here alone every night. Oh, I don't see how I can stand it any longer. (Crying) Gretchen, (getting up) did you ever know what it was to be so lonesome you nearly died, and to want to see some one, oh so much? It is nearly a year since my father died and I can hardly live at all without him. (Sits with head on table crying) Gretchen (L.): Ach, ]\Tiss Dollie, I know it too. (Crying) ]\Iein Vaterland — Plans ! Dollie : Oh, Gretchen! (corning to her) Do you know this terrible feeling too? (Putting arm around her) There, DOLLY TK AVERS' INHERITANCE 7 there, don 't cry^ ! I have been selfish in my grief. Here you have been as lonesome as I and I have done nothing to help you. Gretchen : Ach, no, ]\Iiss Dollie ! I lofe you ! You haf been so goot. Dollie : Oh no, I haven't, but I will be. Don't call me ''Miss" Dollie either. You and I must be friends any- how. (They sit on couch) Now, tell me all about your home. Gretchen : Aeh, I can not. I vould too much cry. I cannot of it spik. It iss so far away, ofer de great wasser. And Hans ! Dollie : Hans ! Who is he ? Gretchen ftivisting corner of apron): He is my — What vou say? Dollie (smiling): Oh, your sweetheart. Gretchen : Ja, dass ist ! Ach, I lofe him ! He will to dis coimtry come. I keep all my moneys. I send to Hans, and he will come. It ist so long. (Crying) Dollie : There, there, don't-cry! We'll soon find a way to bring him. You may go to bed now. I'll wait up until the others come. (Exit Gretchen R.) Poor little Gretchen ! But she is not so entirely alone as I am. She has her Hans even if he is away over the sea, but I have no one. Oh, Papa, Papa ! Why did you leave me alone? (Knock, L. Starts up) Who can be coming at this time of night ? And what a fright I look ! (Smoothing hair, etc.) Come in ! (Enter Tom L.) Tom : Hello, Dollie ! Why, what 's the matter ? Crying, by Jove! So they've gone off and left you again. It's a beastly shame. Knew that's what the old cats would do, so I thought I'd come and console you. Dollie (looking him over): So you've been to the party, too. You needn't trouble yourself, Mr. Deering. Go back to your old party ! So there! (Crying again) Tom : Oh, come now, Dollie, don't be hard on a fellow. I'd lots rather stay here with you than circulate around in that stuck-up set. (Sits E. of table) 8 DOLLY TPv AVERS' INHERITANCE DoLLiE: Would you? (^Yipil^g Iter eyes and crossing to him) You see I was just dying of lonesomeness, and when I saw you with those clothes on, I thought you had just come out of pity. But it is all right now. Let's have a jolly time. Here, let me have your hat. (Puts it away. Then seats herself at L. of table, elbows on it) Now tell me all about the party. Tom : Party be damned ! DoLLiE: Whew! Don't swear, Tom. Tom : Well then, what in thunder makes the old hags treat you so? (Gets up anel stamps around the room) DoLLiE: Oh, why must we talk of disagreeable things? Haven 't I just been crjnng about it ? And now you want to bring it all back again. But if you must know, come and sit down like a reasonable being and I'll tell you all about it. Their hatred of me, for I can call it by no other name, began just after my father died a 3^ear ago. Ever since then my step-mother and her daughters — sisters they have never been — have instituted a system of studied coldness and hard treatment, the very opposite of the fawning tenderness bestowed upon me in his life- time. They never take me anywhere, buy me no new clothes, and hustle me out of the room when visitors come, as if they wanted to keep my very existence a secret. Oh, I can never tell you of all the torments I am called upon to endure every hour of the day. Tom : Why do you stand it? Can no one do anything? DoLLiE: What would be thought of me if I should bring complaint against my own people? Who would listen to me ? The excuse always made to strangers, is — ' ' Oh, she's sech a child you know." Here I am nearly eighteen years old and they keep me dressed like this. Tom : Why, I think that 's a stunning dress ! DoLLiE fcontemptuously) : Oh, that's all boys know. Tom : But, what makes them so do^\Ti on you ? That 's what I don't see. DoLLiE: Well, it's like this. When Papa died suddenly, no will could be found, so the natural thing of course was DOLI.V TKAVERS' IXIIKRITAXCE 9 to have my stepmother appointed my guardian until I'm of age. Everj^hing was turned over to her, and as long as they can keep me a little girl and not let people know how old I am, they can do what they like w4th papa's money. But I know papa never meant it that way. He had begun to see through them before he died. I know he left a will. (Getting up and putting hands to head) Oh, why can't I remember what he said? He told me with almost his last breath where he put it. His last words ! Oh, why will they not come back to me? (Gazing u'ildly around) This very room! His room! Yet I can not remember. I can not. I— (Sinks into chair, hands over face) Tom (soothingly): There, there, DoUie, don't. Things will surelv be better soon. Do vou think they suspect he left a will? DoLLiE: Yes, I tliink they do and that is why they hate me so. You see if it were found and put into a lawyer's hands, my rights would have to be recognized. Papa was queer about some things, and he thought it would be safer in a secret place than in a lawyer's hands. To think that to me alone he told the secret and I have forgotten it — forgotten it as completely as though I never heard it. The awful shock of his sudden death left me so stunned. IMy mind was a blank for days, and those last words have never come back to me. (Looks dreamily around the room) Tom : Have you ever looked for it ? DoLLiE (rousing, as though coming out of a dream): Have I? I never let a chance slip by. I think it's in this room somewhere, but w^here I do not know. Oh, I am so tired of this life. Must it go on forever? Tom : Of course not. AVe must find a way to get ahead of them. In the meantime, remember you have a friend in me. DoLLiE (getting up): Yes, Tom, I know that, but oh — (Sighs) But let's not be miserable any more. The whole evening is going. Here 's good-by to all sad thoughts ! 10 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE (Dancing around the room) You smoke — Don't you want to now ? Give me a cigarette, too ! We used to smoke them at school — because we were told not to I suppose. (Tom lights cigarettes for hoth. Dollie puts on Tom's hat and struts around imitating a man) Tom (laughing) : That's good. I wish the dainty and super- fine Elize could see you now. (Sound of some one coming) Speaking of angels — (Enter Mrs. Travers and daughters center hack. Dollie front L. sitting on arm of chair and puffing aicay unconsciously at cigarette. Mother and daugh- ters stop in middle of stage with expressions of astonishment) Elize : What on earth— Janet (sarcastically ) : Well, Dollie, this is a nice thing to do. IMrs. Travers : Law me, darters, she 's sech a child you know. (Sinks into a chair as though overcome. Recovering, she sits up and glares at Dollie) Dollie, you naughty girl ! Go to your room immediately. I '11 see to yew ! Dollie (aside) : I see mA'self . (Aloud to TomJ Didn 't I tell you? (Laughs and hows in mock humility to Mrs. Travers) My dear Mrs. Travers, I'm really sorry to disappoint you, but, as I have not yet finished my cigarette, a moonlight stroll with ]Mr. Deering Avill be more to my liking. Come Tom, this may not be very proper, but I'm *'sech a child you know" that I can not be expected to observe the proprieties. (Bowing low, exits center with Tom) Elize and Janet (together): Well, I never — Mrs. T. (in openmouthed, astonishment) : Law me! Gals, I don't know what tew dew Avitli her. She's too much fer me. Janet (spitefully) : Yes, and for all of us. Mark my words, INIiss Dollie is going to come out on the top of the heap every time. Elize, you do despise her, don't you? She's young, pretty, and — rich — if that long sought will ever turns up. But I want to tell you one thing. Keep her out of Elliot McDowell's sight or you'll never land your fish. DOLLY TRAVER8' INHERITANCE 11 Elize (in a rage): Keep still, can't you. Do >ou want to make me hate her any more than I do ? Janet (laughing) : Glad I'm not troubled by any nonsense of that sort. (Yawning) Well, I'm off to bed. To- morrow is my busy day. Let me see — (coming center, counting on fingers) At nine o'clock, a committee meet- ing to arrange for a workingman 's reading room ; at ten, a meeting of the Club of Advanced Ideas for Women ; at twelve, a visit to St. Luke's Hospital for Crippled Children ; at one, a — Elize : Oh, for Heaven's sake, do go to bed. You'll drive me crazy. Mrs. T. (who has been dozing): What — How — Law me, darters, don't fight. Janet (going R. laughing): Dear me, IMother, your language is certainly refined. I'll leave you to enjoy it. (Exit R. front) Elize : IMother, can't you ever remember not to say ''Law me " and " darters ' ' ? (Crosses L.J JMrs. T. (dazed): How? Law me— Elize (exasperated): Oh, let's go to bed! ^[rs. T. (rising) : But what about Dollie ? Elize (angrily): Oh, she'll take care of herself, never fear. You'll find her in her room all right. (Exit Mrs. T. R.) Dollie — Yes, she will take care of herself and we'll be the ones to suffer. (Center) We cannot keep her a child much longer and if that wretched will is found, I am sure this wealth will be Dollie 's and we shall have to go back to the poverty from which her father rescued us when he married IMother. And Elliot IMcDowell! Would his love stand the test of poverty? Is that love mine? Will it ever be? Oh, love such as I bear for him is a curse. It makes me hate everything that comes between me and my desire of winning him. Oh, if I could find the missing will I'd destroy it as I would the veriest scrap of paper. Nothing — not even fate itself shall withhold from me the priceless boon of Elliot IMcDowell 's love. As for Dollie — let her beware, for if she with her baby face and childish ways, should come 12 DOLLY TRAVERS' IXHERriAXCE between me and my love, I'd crush her as I would the lowest worm that crawls! (Exit R. after turning down ligJits) (Tom enters stealthily by door at hack. Lools cau- tiously around) Tom : Ha, the coast is clear at last. I soon persuaded Dollie to go to bed and now that they are all gone I am going to have a try at finding that Avill. Sli — AVhat 's that ? I would be in the devil of a fix if any one should come, but ril be hanged if I can stand seeing Dollie bullyragged to death by those old eats. She said it was somewhere in this room (is looking around all the time he is talking) and I am going to make a systematic search. Xot there. (Going over to desk) She said this was his private desk. There might be a secret drawer or something. (Hears something outside) "Ha, by the pricking of my thumbs, something evil this way comes." Here. I'll hide in here. (Gets behind curtain just as ^Irs. Traver> enters B. with candle in hand) IMrs. T. : Law me. Thought I heerd somethin ' daown here. Burglars, maybe. (Peering around) Ain't nobody here after all. (Sets candle down on table) This room jest gives me the shivers. Seems as if I could see Dollie 's pa's eyes lookin' out of every corner. Law "me, he was a good man! (Sniffling) Dollie ain't a mite like him. Dear me, I wonder naow where he could have put that will. (Tom looks out) That ar desk there was his'n an' he set a poAver o' store by it. Wonder if it ain't in there. (Goes near curtain and hears noise) What's that? (Pulls curtain aside and sees Tom) Oh! (shrieks) Burglars! Help! Help! Oh! (Sinks into a chair. Dollie enters L. in time to see Tom going out by eloor at back. Is about to speak to him when he motions her to be silent) Dollie (aside): AYhat can Tom be doing here? I wonder, but mum's the word. (Goes to ^Irs. T. just as Elize and Janet rush in R.) Dollie : There, there. Mother, it's all right. Janet and Elize (together): What's the matter? DOLLY TRAVKRS' IXHERITAXC'E 13 Mrs. T. ( begin ni)ig to scrcatn aijain): l^iirglars ! Ilel}) ! Where are they ? {Enter Gretchen L.) Gretchen: Aeh, wa>s ist ^ Donner and blitzen ! Was ist ? Aeh, such a clime! (Screams anel sits down flat on floor L. front, with feet straight out in front of her) DoLLiE: There, there, everyone keep still! He's gone. I saw him go. Pie was as much frightened as we were. Elize (screams): There was a burglar then. Mrs. T. (center): Oh, I'm faint. ^ I— (AU rush to catch her except Elize, who also succumbs in a chair, and Gretchen, who still remains on the floor in a state of collapse) CURTAIN ACT II Garden of the Travers Jwme. Rustic tables and seats. Garden seat R., covered ivith rugs and cushions. (Enter Gretchen L. with tray containing cups of chocolate. Enter Dick R.) Dick : Hello there, little Dutcliy ! What have you on that tray ? Sauerkraut and wiener-wursts ? Gretchen (setting tray doirn on table): Nein, das iss schoeolade for de Fraulein Elize. Dick (moc'king her): Schoeolade! Well, how 're you coming any-how? Like it any better? Gretchen (sighing): Aeh, it is a lant of big lonesomeness. Ach, I feel so — here — (Placing hand on heart) Dick: Why, what's the matter? Stomach ache? Gretchen: Ach, nein! You understand not. I got such a feelings here in mein heart — Dick : Why, don 't you like it here ? Aren 't they good to you ? Gretchen : Ach, yes, de ]\Iiss Dollie ist gut. But de Fraulein Elize ! (Raising hands) Was filr eine Fran ist dasf Ach, I must eferytings do for her — de dresses bring, de schoeolade, de shoes lace oop (acting it all out) und sie, sie tut immer so, and she do always so. (Imitating a lady fixing hair and putting powder on face) Ach, es ist awful! (Shaking head) Dick (laughing) : Well, you are certainly the limit. (Aside) She'd be great if she wasn't so darned fresh. She's a peach, all right, all right, f Aloud) Say, you don't have to put anything on your face do you? Let's see. (He rubs her cheek with his finger. She slaps him away) Gretchen: Ach, du bist awful! Dick : Let 's you and me be spoons on each other. What do you say? (Tries to put arm around her) 14 DOLLY TUAVEKS" IXIIEIUTAXCE 15 Gretchen (jerking away J: Spoons? Was ist das? Dick: Why, don't you know? Lovers — sweethearts — Gretchen : Sweetheart? Das meint Hans! I haf one sweetheart in Deutschland — ( proudly j mein Hans. DiCK: The devil you say. Gretchen : Ja. ja. but I ged no ledder. Aeh, I — (Begins to cry) Dick : Oh say now — let up on that. Don't go making a foun- tain of yourself for any damned Dutchman. Give him the grand bounce and take yours truly. Won't you? (Comes close to'her) Gretchen (draws hack): Xein I nein 1 (Runs off L. front] Dick : Well, that was a left hander, sure pop I Gee. I 'd do anything for her "Royal Nibs. ]Miss Sauer Kraut." But she surely did hand me the "frozen mitt." It's me for the cold and chilly street. (Taking up basket) ^Iar>^ Ann Simpkins has turned me down too, so I'm a regular "Babe in the Woods," tra la. (Goes off R., ringing. Elize enters ceyiter, slowly saunters to table, pours out a cup of chocolate, yawning, seats herself on bench and slowly sips) Elize : Oh, these late hours do make one feel depressingly weary. And then that burglar scare last night was enough to keep one awake most of the night. (Fixing hair and smoothing face) It all has its effect on the complexion too. I am afraid I could see wrinkles beginning to come this morning. (Getting up and walking around) But I must contrive to liven up a little before ^Nlr. McDowell comes. fDoLLiE enters unseen, center back. Stands and listois) I am almost sure that he will propose to-day. His manner was so impressive last night, that I think he asked to call for that very purpose. I do wish that I felt better, or at least looked better. I shall receive him here on the lawn, wear my pink muslin, and hold my pink parasol. He is coming at ten and it must be almost that now. (Turns and discovers Dollie. Aside) That minx! Wonder if she heard me? (^ Jo Dollie) Haven '^ you anything to do except to stand aroimd where you aren't wanted? 16 DOLLY TR AVERS' IXHERITAXCE DoLLiE (coining front): Well, no. Perhaps, when I am as old as you are I may find more to occupy my time. And, in the meantime, seeing that these grounds belonged to ni}^ father, I may perhaps be allowed standing room in them. (Going L.) (Janet enters liurrieelhj E.) Janet: Oh dear, what time is it? I shall be late for the Advanced Idea Class (sitting at tahle and pouring out chocolate) and after that comes the IMother's Congress. Elize: Mother's Congress, indeed! You'd better join an Old IMaid's Society for the Benefit of Stray Cats. Janet: IMy, Elize, your temper is heavenly this morning. Wasn't McDowell as attentive as usual last night? Elize: As for Elliot ]\IcDowell, the future will show that I am perfectlv able to manage him. An revoir, mv angels. (Exit C.) Janet : Humph, I must say Elize is on her high horse this morning. But I must hurry. Dollie (coming np and Inecling heside her): Janet, couldn't you spare a little time from your clubs for me? I'm sure I need your sympathy much more than they do. (Sobbing) Oh, ever since Papa died I have been just starving for a little love, but no one cares a rap for me ! Janet (drawing away): Oh Dollie, don't bother me! Go to Tom Deering or some one else for s.ympathy — I haven't any for you. I haven't time. Don't you .see? (P idling out notebook and reading from it as she gets up and loolis at watch) Advanced Idea Class at nine. ^Mother's Con- gress at ten. Lecture by Professor Theophilus Jastrow on the Amelioration of Siberian Lepers at eleven o'clock, and (goes off L. still reading from notehool-) Dollie (rising with gesture of despair): Oh, it's of no use. No one has any time for me. Well, I'll just have to fashion my life without love. I'll be just as hard and unfeeling as they are, and if I don't have some fun at their expense I'll know the reason why. I Avish Tom were here. I heard Elize say that .she expected her fine beau, Elliot IMcDowell, this morning, and that she thought DOLLY TRAVEPvS' INHErjTAXCE 17 he would "pop the question," but (dancing around and singing) "I'll be there ma honey, I'll be there," and we'll see who will do the popping. I must find Tom and then for some fun. (Glancing L.) Oh, here he is now. Oh, Tom — (Tom enters L.) I've just been looking for you. Tom : That's good news. What's up? DoLLiE : Oh, I want your help in a scheme I have on hand. Will you help me? Tom : Sure thing. What is it ? DoLLiE: Now don't preach and don't back out. I've gone just about to my limit in this house and I am going to do something to pay them back for their treatment of me. Elize was as hateful as an old cat this morning. She's expecting Elliot IMcDowell and she thinks he is going to propose to her. She's going to receive him out here in the garden — see, she has the seat all fixed up with cushions. You and I are going to hide behind it and listen. When he gets to the exciting moment we will jump up and give them the "Ha, ha," and then run away. Tom (drawing had'): Oh, Dollie, that's a very mean thing to do. Dollie : I don't care if it is. She's everlastingly mean to me and I'm going to pay her back. Tom : I'd do anything for you, Dollie, but this seems dis- honorable. Dollie : Dishonorable, nothing! I told you not to preach. All right then, go home, f tossing her head) You needn't help me, you needn't do anything, but never, never, speak to me again ! (Turns to go R.) Tom (heaving a sigh): Oh, well, Dollie, it's awful, but I'll help you. Of course I will. I said I'd stand by you and I will. Dollie (running toward him): Oh, Tom, you are a dear! I could almost kiss you for that. Tom (seizing her): All right, here goes. Dollie: No, no! (Struggling and tunning off C, Tom fol- IS DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE lowing) (Gretciien enters and removes chocolate tray L.) (Enter Elize E.) Elize: I wonder why he doesn't come. (Loohiufj eit icatch) It's past ten now. (Pacing np and down restlessly) Oh, if this chance fails me ! But I must be calm. I mnst not let him see how I feel. (Listening) I hear foot- steps. (Sits and takes np hook. McDoW'Ell enters center hack and comes front) McDowell : ^Ij dear Miss Elize, excuse my being a trifle late. It was unavoidable. (She rises. He takes her hand and hows low over it) Elize: You are excused. Will you not sit down? (They seat themselves) McDowell (fanning himself ivith hat): Warm, isn't it? But one scarcely feels the heat in the shade of these magnificent trees. Elize : Yes, the trees are beautiful. The late Mr. Travers was very proud of his gardens. Have you ever been through them? ]\IcDowell : No, I have not. That is a pleasure reserved for you to bestow upon me. Elize (gaily): Well there's no time like the present. Come, suppose we inspect them now. McDowell (rising): Gladly. (He gives her his arm, and they stroll np center and off B. Tom and Dollie 7^un in- L.) DoLLiE (laughing): She thinks she is going to secure her prize, but we'll fool her this trip. Tom : What 'er you going to do ? DoLLiE: Do? Didn't I tell you what we're going to do? Hide behind this bench, and then when he begins to get spoony, jump out at them, and laugh and run. Tom (groaning): That seems like such a low down thing to do. Dollie : Of course it is, and I am glad of it. If you have cold feet already, why just go home like a good little boy, I don't want 3^011. Tom : Oh, Dollie, of course — DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE 19 DoLLiE: Well, come on tliuii, they'll be back in a minute. (They hide themselves just as Elize and ]McDowell stroll in, center, come forward and sit on bench) IMcDowELL : Yes, it was a very enjoyable affair. Elize : It sureh^ was. I think we are going to give a ball very soon and a fancy dress one at that. ]\lcDow^ELL : Indeed ! But my dear ]Miss Elize, I do not see how 3^ou could look any more charming in a fancy-dress costume than 3'ou do to-day. Late hours seem to have no effect upon you. Elize: Oh, Mr. McDowell, you flatter me. IMcDowELL: Not at all. I have long wanted to bo more than a casual acquaintance. Believe me, I — (Placing his arm along the hack of the scat) Elize (bending toward her) You surely must have seen that I — (A loud giggle is heard. Tom and Dollie spring froyn behind bench and run laughing off R.) LIcDow^ell (springing up) : The devil — Elize (trembling and half crying): Dollie Travers! This is shameful! (To McDowell) Mr. McDowell, I must beg your pardon for the very reprehensible conduct of my sister. ]\IcDowell : Your sister ? (Aside) Devilish handsome any- way. (Looking B.) Elize (much excited): Oh, I can not think what induced her to act so. AVe have condoned her faults heretofore because she is so very young. But she must and shall learn manners. jMcDowell (in a rather cool manner): Dear ]\Iiss Elize, pray calm yourself. It was nothing more than a girlish trick. We can surely forgive it. And now I think I will leave in order to give you an opportunity to recover from this little incident. (Exit B., bowing) Elize (rushing back and forth excitedly) : Scandalous! Con- temptible ! I feel as if I could utterly annihilate that child! She has ruined my last chance with him. He will never get so far again. And all on account of her. I wish we were livinj? in a barliarian age, for I would 20 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE welcome any means to rid me of her hated presence — (Jack Mugwump^ disguised as a ivoman selling lace, appears center hack. Sneaks tip and listens to Elize) dungeons, slow torture, poison — (Jack states) anything to get her out of my way. I will do something if I die for it. (Exit tip through trees R. tvithout having seen Jack, tcho comes forward) Jack (pushing bonnet hack to show real character): Well what the devil! Never see one of the swells worked up like that before. She sure has got it in for some one. Wants ' ' knock-out drops, ' ' does she ? ]\Iaybe I can strike up a bargain with her. (Looking B.) Here she comes now. (Pulls bonnet doivn over face and tvalks like an old ivoman) Elize (entering B., exhausted, sits on bench): I could not go into the house. I must recover mj^self first. (Jack comes front) Jack (in ivhining tone): Kind leddy, please buy some lace for the sake of me six small childher stharving at home. Etjze (impatiently) : Oh, my good woman, go away. I have troubles of my own. I don't want to look at any lace. Jack (in a loud tone of grief): Ochone, wirra, wirra ! It's stharving we are, ma'am. Well thin, there's nothing left me, but to take a dhrop or two av this poison an make an ind of mesilf, an' the orphan asylums will take care of me six poor childher. Oelione, ochone ! Elize (aside, in a hoarse voice): Poison! (Aloud) What — what did you say, my good woman? Poison? You wouldn 't take that would you ? Every one would — know it — and maybe the orphan asylums would not take care of your children if they knew that — you— Jack: Not a bit of it ma'am. They wouldn't know a "thing about it, ma'am. (He comes closer, speaking in a tvhisper. Elize listens tvith fear and horror depicted on her face) This medicine don't leave no trace behint. A few drops in a cup of coffee an' you fall asleep like a bnbby, ma'am. Elize (in a tvhisper): How — much — for the — bottle? But I have — no money — here. Take this ring — give — me the DOLLY TRAVERS' TNHERITANX'E 21 bottle. (Panting) There take this. (She pushes ring into his hand, snatches bottle, and goes off hurriedly E. After she is gone Jack throws bonnet off entirely, reveal- ing face, drops basket and examines ring) Jack: May I be blowed, but she's a rum one. (^McDowell appears at bach, stops, and listens) She certainly wanted the dope bad to put up a sparkler like this for it. ]\IcDowELL (coining tip and seizing Jack by the collar): Jack ^Mugwump ! What are you doing here and where did you get that ring? (Snatching ring out of his hand and looking at it) Some more of your foxy work, eh? Didn't I tell you the last time that if I ever saw you again I'd land 3^ou in jail? And here you are at it again! If I'm not mistaken, I saw this ring on Miss Denton's finger not half an hour ago. I can tell it by its peculiar setting. How do you happen to have it ? Jack (cowering) : She gave it to me, IMister. iMcDowELL : Gave it to you ? No more of such lies ! Jack: She did, sir. She was half off her head about some- thing. Wanted to put some])ody or something out of the way, an' I watched my chance an' showed her a little bottle of dope I had, sir, an' she was that dead anxious to have it that she just pushed the ring into me hand an' was off like a flash. Hope to die, sir. ^IcDow^LL (}rlio has listeneel in astonisJiment) : Be off with you, before I put the police on you ! You stole it, you rascal! (Shakes him again, anel pulls shawl off showing common tramp's torn coat and shirt) Now be off with you and mincl you this is the last time. If I ever see you again I'll deliver you to the flrst cop I see. I will return the ring to ^liss Denton. (Jack ga fliers up things and sneaks away) McDow^ELL (pacing up and down): This is a strange coin- cidence, surely. But it must be a lie clear through, but — Oh, it must be! AVhat could she want with poison? Nothing, surely. I'll just dismiss the whole thing from my mind. (Looking around) I came back after my glove. Here it is. (Picking it up and sifting down on bench) Yes, a strange coincidence all through. I came 22 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE very near proposing to Elize when that little minx knocked it in the head. I am rather glad of it — it is well not to be in too much of a hnrry abont some things, and the dainty Elize is not as young as she once was. Yet there are all those cursed debts. I must have money some way and marrying it seems to be the easiest way of getting it. There must be money here. (Looking around) Everything shows it. And yet there's something strange about it, too. There's the old lady, ignorant as the devil, and this sister that they have kept so mysteriously in the background. Jove, there was reason for that ! No one would look at the others twice while she was around. Gad, it would be easy to propose to her although she might be a prickly thorn to deal with. Not a disagree- able change after the cloying flattery one gets so much of. Hm-mm — not a bad idea! Guess I'll follow it up. (Rises) This affair of the ring still worries me. What could she want with poison ? (Starts) The little sister — Oh, it couldn't be! And yet now that I recall it, I did not like the look in her eyes when the two of them jumped out on us. And women can be devils sometimes. It will bear looking into, anyway. And I guess ^liss Denton will be rather surprised when I give her ring back to her. (Exit R. as Tom and Dollie run in L. laughing) DoLLiE: Oh dear, oh dear, I shall die laughing. Did you ever see anybody so upset as they were? Elize looked as if she would like to murder me. (Looking at Tom) But what is the matter with you? Tom : Nothing, only I can 't see the fmi in a mean trick like that. Dollie : Mean? Of course it was mean. I meant it to be. I've tried for the last time to win love from them. Only this morning I went down on my knees to Janet and ])egged her for a little of tlie sympathy she bestows on her clubs and hospitals, but she turned from me in scorn. Never again will I look for or expect a kind word from any of them. But you just wait ! Papa 's last words will surely come back to me sometime. I'll find the Avill and then I'll show them the mercy they have sho\\Ti me. DOLLY TRAVERS' IXIIERTTAXCE 23 Tom : Yes, if wo only coukl find it! Bnt you saw liow I brought the house about my ears when I tried hist night. DoLLiE: Yes, but what if I don't find it? Do you suppose they can keep me out of l^apa's money forever? I guess not. When I am eighteen — and that won't be long — I am going to a lawyer. Tom : Yes, you can do that. DoLLiE: And I will. But, Tom, did yon hear Elize telling ^McDowell about the mask ball they are going to give? Well, I'm going to it and you must come too. Tom : Not on your life ! I hate the d — mn things. DoLLiE: Now, Tom Deering, you just have to come, do you hear? (Stamping foot) Tom (resignedly) : Yes, I hear, and I suppose I'll come. (Aside) Pretty state of affairs when I let a girl turn me around like this. (Aloud) Well, what costume are 3^ou going in? (Sulkily) I shan't mask. DoLLiE: You silly! Of course you'll mask. What fun '11 it be if you don't? And besides I have another scheme to tease Elize. I've spoiled her chance once with ^McDowell and I am going to do it again. Oh, I'm going to get up a stunning costume. There are yards and yards of black chiffon up in the garret. I shall be a fairy of the night. Of course as I am ''sech a child you know," I'll have it real short. Oh, can't I dance in it! Like this, see. (Lifting shirts, she waltzes round stage humming tune) Oh, Tom, won't it be fun? (Going up to him she puts hands on his shoulders) You will com.e, won't you, Tom? Tom : I suppose so, but what's your scheme. DoLLiE: Why don't you see? I will try to charm ^McDowell so that he will pay all his attention to me instead of to Elize. And take me in to supper, too! Won't she be mad though? Tom : Well, I like that ! Ask a fellow to go to a party and then coolly tell him you are going to supper with another man. DoLT.iE (teasingly) : Yes, Tom, a man. You're only a hoy, you know. Tom : Bov or not, I'll never consent to being treated tliat 24 DOLLY TR AVERS' IXHERITAXCE way. And another thins^, I decidedly object to your hav- ing anything to do with Elliot IMcDovrell. He's not a man that I care to have yon know. DoLLiE (standing in front of him, hands on hips): Phew — cw — Mister Tom Deering! How high and mighty we are! Whoever constituted you my guardian? I'll have you understand that I shall choose my friends without any of your assistance. Tom : Then you needn 't expect me at your old party, that 's all. DoLLiE : Well really, Mr. Deering, we shall try to exist without your delightful company. Perhaps you would do well to remember the little maxim — ' ' there are others ' ' — and owing to the state of your health this morning I think I will bid you a very good — day. (Bowing low she goes off L, humming a tune) Tom (stamping up and down front): What the devil makes girls act so ? Now she knows as well as I do that I '11 go to this confounded part}^ Of course I will, if only to protect her from that snob of a ]\IcDowell. (Exit E. as DoLLiE enters L.) DoLLiE (i)i a ivhisperj : Tom! Tom! Why — he's gone — (Coming front) And mad at me, too. (Crying) Oh, why didn't I behave myself? (Loolnng up in a fright- ened wag) AYhy, Tom's the only friend I have in the world — the only person that cares one — single — thing about me. And now I — have — lost him. Oh, I am so alone. (Falls sohhing on the bench) CURTAIN ACT III Library in the T ravers home — same as in Act I, hut with curtains of archway at hacli drawn aside to disclose por- tion of 'ballroom. Conch at front B. is screened off by ferns and potted palms to form alcove. Desk still in con- spicuous place. Conimoiion heard: L. as curtain rises. (Enter Dick Snodgrass and Hans Von UnterwaldenJ Dick: Hi there, Duteliy ! Are there any more like you where you eame from? Hans (confused) : Ich versteh nicht — (Enter Dollie K.) DoLLiE : Why, Dick, whom have you here ? Dick : Search me. I don 't believe he knows himself. Guess he doesn't savvy any English. I came up here, hoping- to get a glimpse of little ]\Iiss Sauer Kraut, and I found him wandering around the house. He won't leave — seems as if he wants someone, but he can't speak a word of English. Hans: English! Nein, nein ! (Shaking head and talking very fast in German, ending with — ) Ich suche mein Scliatz! DiCK:' Who said anything about shots? Take me for a cannon, do you? I'd like to fire off a shot or two just to see if those gunboats (pointing to tiis feet) would stay on when you jumped. DoLLiE: Don't bother him, Dick. I can talk a little German, and I'll see what I can do. (Going up to Hans.j Was u'ollen Sief Hans: Ich will wcin Schaiz frnden. DoLLiE: Schatz? Schatz? Oh yes, that means sweetheart. (To DiCK^ You know, Gretchen told us that. Hans (much cjxited): J a, ja, Gretchen, das ist — Wo ist 25 26 DOLLY TRAVErvS' INHERITANCE sicf Sic ist mcinc schalz, mcvne liehc. (Ta'king Dollie's hand) DoLLiE: Why, do you mean Gretelien — Gretehen Linden- strasse ? Hans (more excited): J a, ja, sic ist incin schatz. Ich licisz Hans Von Unterivalden. (Bowing over her hand) DoLLiE: I see! (Laughing and clapping hands) Yon are Hans, Gretehen 's sweetheart, ;^nd have eome all this way to see her. Oh, Diek, she will be so glad to see him. Take him down to the kitchen. Dick: Yes, I s'pose she will be glad to see him. but I ain't, darn his Dutch hide. I had some hopes of IMiss Saner Kraut myself. (Goes L. followed hg Hansj DoLLiE (seats herself hg table): Well, Gretehen will be sur- prised. Everyone has some one belonging to them except me. It seems to me I get lonelier and lonelier. Tom has been mad at me ever since that day in the garden, three Aveeks ago, and Elize never speaks to me at all. She only looks at me with such a hateful glare in her eye that it makes the cold shivers go all over me. I believe she'd murder me if she got the chance. Well, to-night is the grand mask ball that she's counting so much on. They won't expect to see me there, but I'll surprise them a few. I've my dress all ready and it is a dandy. It is almost time for the party now, I suppose. Janet and Elize have been primping for the last hour, but my debut wdll be necessarily somewhat later than theirs. (Goes to L. as Elize enters B. in fancg dress, hut not masked) Elize: There's Dollie. How I hate that girl! My whole soul seems burning up with a desire to be revenged upon her milk-white prettiness. Elliot IMcDowell has scarcely looked at me since that scene in the garden and it is all due to her. (Pacing up and down) Oh, I can well understand how women tortured as I am have been driven to any means within their power to rid them- selves of a hated rival. I know too that my looks are suffering through all this misery, and that is laid up against you, too. IMiss Dollie. But I must calm myself, as the guests will soon be arriving. DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE 27 (Enhr ^Irs. Travers and Janet in cosfiDnes, but ivithoiit niasl's) Mrs. T.: Elize, darter, yew look pretty badly this evenin'. Ain't yew feelin' well? Hadn't yew better take a dose of bitters when ye go to bed? EhizE (stamping foot in a rage): Bitters! ^lother, IMother! Yon will drive me crazy. Can't yon ever learn to be like other people? I almost think if it were not for yon, Elliot McDowell wonld not have stopped coming to see me. Anyone can see the difference between onr bringing- np and Dollie's. Oh, I wish yon wonld stay ont of the room when he comes. Mrs. T. (heginning^to cry): Wa'al dear me, ef this don't beat all. Talkin' tew yer mother like this — her who's done everythin' she conld fer ye. Why, Elize, child, they han't nothin' I han't done fer ye an' (straightening up) let me say, dar — danghter, I may be ignorant as ye say, bnt I'm yer mother arter all an' ye ain't got no call tew talk ter me like that. An' jest let me tell ye that a gal that'll treat her own mother that's slaved an' dng fer her gals as ye know I hev fer yew when we hadn't nothin' to eat hardly, an' brought ye up right an' did fer ye — jest let me say there won't nothin' go right with ye, mark my words. The Lord won't prosper ye. I'm an old woman an' ignorant, I know, bnt I know enough to knoAV that a gal that treats her mother as you do me ain't a-goin' ter get along well in this world — Elize (who has been impatiently tapping her foot): There, that'll do, if you are done preaching I guess I'll go and finish my toilet. Janet, you had better watch out that mother cloesn 't offer some of our guests a dose of bitters. (Exit L.) ]\1rs. T. {still crying): Janet, what's the matter with her? Janet: Why, Mother, can't you see? She is just crazy about Elliot INlcDowell. For some reason or other he has been cutting her lately, and it makes her furious. She connects Dollie with it in some way. I don't know what the matter is T am sure, but I tell you T would not want to be tlie siirl to get in Elize 's path. She has a 28 DOLLY TRA\T:RS' IXHERITAXCE devilish mean disposition. I can remember a few in- stances in our childhood when she showed that mur- derous temper of hers, and I Ve steered clear of her ever since. Pshaw — what a fuss to make over a man ! There isn't one of the whole tribe I'd take as a gift. Mrs. T, (wiping her eyes): Wa'all don't know what to do. If I could get this here Elliot ^McDowell fer her I would I'm sure. Janet (laughing) : Yes, of course you would, Mother. That's just what makes her so cantankerous. But I guess we had better put on our masks and get out of sight as I see the guests are arriving. (They pass off L. Guests in fancy dress and wasl's appear in the ballroom. The orchestra p)lays dance music and the couples dance by opening or stroll into library. McDowell and Dollie, masked, stroll in and come np to corner R.) McDowell: Fair Goddess of the Night, why fiee so swiftly from a forlorn mortal who worships at your shrine? Dollie : Sir Knight, T am far from being a goddess. I am only a mortal like yourself, but a thousand times more forlorn. McDowell (aside):' Wb.o cnn she be? I have heard her voice before but can't tell where. (Aloud) I am loath to believe such a statement. Such fairy grace of move- ment must, methinks, belong to an ethereal being. But come, if fairies such as you can know fatigue, rest a moment in this secluded nook. (They seat themselves) And believe me, fair lady. I would give a good deal for a peep behind that mask. Dollie: Oho, Sir Knight! Treason in the ranks! (Shal-ing icand at hiw) You mxwA, play the game fairly. (^Elize strolls through on arm of partner, discovers them, stops as though looking at them an instant and then goes on) Dollie (rising): This party is a rare treat for me and I do not want to miss any of it. The music makes me wild to dance and i- think my partner must be looking for me too. McDowell: Your wish shall be mine, oh lady fair, but you DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE 29 do not know how anxiously I shall await the hour for the removal of the masks. DoLLiE: But, Sir Knight, perhaps ere that a friendly cloud will have wafted me hence, or, like Cinderella of Old, my pumpkin carriage may have borne me back to my fate with my cruel stepmother and her daughters, never more to be seen. (Runs center and returns to ballroom. He lingers a moment) McDowell (aside): Cinderella — stepmother — I have it, by Jove ! The little sister ! Ha, ha, she is certainly a peach. (Follows DoLLiE. other guests stroll by. ]\Irs. Travers and Janet come in and go to couch R., ]\Irs. Travers fanning herself. Enter Elize L. Comes \ip to others) Mrs. T. : Gals, I jest can't stand this thing on my face any longer. (Takes off mash irhile Elize and Janet are leatching the dancers) Janet (to ElizeJ.- Who in tlie world can that be in the black dress? I can't seem to place her at all, can j^ou? The man in the knight costume seems to pay her a lot of attention. Do vou know Elize, I think he is Elliot ^McDowell. Elize (uneasily): Oh, I don't believe it is Elliot. Janet : Humph ! Looks like him. Where is he anyway '? I haven't seen anyone paying you any particular atten- tion this evening. Elize (sarcastically): Have you had to turn many part- ners away? Janet : 8h — sh — they are coming this Avay. It must be time to unmask. (Couples come in and group themselves on stage. IMcDowell and Dollie front L. opposite Mrs. Travers, Janet, and Elize. Tom center back, alone) Butler (entering center, comes front): Ladies and gentle- men will please remove their masks. (Guests unmask. Laughter and conversation) Janet and Elize (together): Why Dollie Travers! You here ? :McDowell (aside): The little sister! Thought I couldn't be mistaken. 30 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE fToM starts forward hut draws hack as ]\IcDowell turns to DollieJ DoLLiE : Yes, my dear mother and sisters, inasmiieli as it lacked such a short time till my eighteenth birthday. I thought it no harm to come to a party in my own house, although you did dispense with the formality of an invitation. (Laughs) jMcDowell (aside): Plucky, by Jove! (To Dolliej ]\Iiss Dollie, I hardly think we need an introduction. We have met before have we not? Elize (aside to ]\Irs. Travers) : Mother, are you going to allow this? Will you see your own daughter insulted in this way? Send this little upstart about her business, or I warn you something will happen. I can not stand it. Janet (laughing): How can you help it? With Dollie and youth and beauty in the lists against you, what chance have you ? Elize ( choldngly ) : Janet, I — Mrs. T. : Law me, darters, quit yer fightin ' ! Some one '11 hear ye. (The guests have hecn strolling ahout and hack to the hallroom. IMcDow^ell and Dollie also go up center to hallroom, followed hy Tom, icho is watching them) Janet (rising): Come, ]\Iother, I think the laws of hos- pitality require that we join our guests. You had better remain here, Elize, until you recover your usual beautiful composure. (They also go up center and exit. Elize sits with hands clenched. Servants hring in cups, saucers, dishes, and small tahles. Elize starts up and goes hur- riedly R. Servants finish tvork and retire. Elize re- enters R., husies herself ahout table, glancing from time to time toward hallroom. Takes hottle furtively from dress and puts something into one of the cups. Sits at table. Guests stroll in a feiu at a time. Dollie and McDowell, Mrs. Travers and Janet come to tahles. Servants hring food and pour coffee. All take cups. Elize watches Dollie and, when she comes toward tahle, hands her a cup. McDow^ell has heen watching Elize closely) DOLLY TR AVERS' INHERIT ANCl'] 31 Elize (wiih forced rjaicfjj as sJir hands Dollie the cup): Here, Dollie, is your cup. It has just been poured and is nice and hot. Just a minute, ]\Ir. ^IcDowell, and I will hand you yours, too. IMcDowELL: AVhy, thank you, Miss Elize. You are very kind I am sure, but I have a fancy to change with Miss Dollie here. (TalHiicf cup from Dollie and looking hard at Elize) I am going to drink to IMiss Dollie 's health. (He raises cup slowly to his lips still looking at Elize, irho is standing transfixed with horror. As the cup reaches his lips, she gives a scream^ sirays toward him and falls, hut is caught hy Tom and laid on couch. As guests crowd around Elize, McDowell empties cup among ferns) ]\Irs. T. (crying): Oh. Avhat ails her? Elize, speak to me! She ain't dead, is she? Oh— Janet: Hush, IMother, she is only a little faint. You know she has not felt well lately. ]\Irs. T.: Yes, I know. An' ef that feller— Janet (aside): IMother, for Heaven's sake hush! Elize would never forgive you. See, she's coming to now. (Aloud) I think she is better. (To guests) Please don't let this disturb you any. My sister is subject to faint spells, but she is recovering now. If you will excuse us we will retire. (Taking Elize 's arm, they exit R. The guests how to ]\Irs. Travers and exit center. INIcDowell, who has heen conversing with Dollie in low tones L., hows low over her hand. Tom, who has heen standing center watching, makes gesture of disgust and goes out center. IMcDowell goes center hack, waves hand to Dollie as he goes- out. ]\Irs. Travers exit B. After all are gone Dollie crosses slowly and seats herself on couch) Dollie : Well, the party is over and life will settle back to its dull routine again. No more happy days for me. (Taking head in hands) In what darkened paths my feet are straying! This night closes my seventeenth year, and on the threshold of womanhood T have no bright dreams as other girls have. No "coming-out" party for 32 DOLLY TRAVEPvS' IXHERITANCE me with beautiful gifts and clothes. I haven't a friend in the world except Elliot jMcDowell and his friendship has brought untold wrath upon my head. Never can I forget the look on Elize's face to-night at the refreshment table. I wonder if she really did love him. She seemed to be terribl}^ overcome — I'm almost sorry I did what I did, but I only wanted to tease her a little. I didn't think he would pay all his attention to me. Well, such things always come back on a person. I didn't gain anything by it, and I lost Tom's friendship. I'd give — yes I would — I'd give a hundred ]\IcDowells for Tom, but he won't look at me any more. (Getting tip and wall-ing around the room) How this room brings old memories back — my father ! Oh, my dear, kind father, do you know in what hard places your little girl's feet are traveling? Oh, if 3^our words would only come back to me. (Center front, Jianels clasping head) Night and day the thought haunts me. In my dreams I see this room — see myself here hunting, hunting and always, just as I am about to la.v my hands on the missing paper, I awake and everything is gone. Oh, if I only could remember his last words! (Goes ojf slowly to U., hand to head. Lights gymdiially lowered. McDo^vell enters stealthily at hack and creeps front) IMcDow^ELL (in a low voice): Well, Elliot, my boy, this is the first time in your checkered career that you have been a housebreaker. But I am determined to make a search for that will. Ever since I learned of the merciless perse- cution of little Dollie, I determined to find that document if it was in existence. By the aid of a friendly window here I am. That diabolical trick of Elize's to-night made me see that something must be done at once. Wonder how I ever thought of proposing to her. But now for the will and — Dollie ! Was there every such a cpy, mischievous bit of womankind before? I think a tre- mendous lot of that little girl and I intend to make her my wife — that is, if we find the will. Then I'll turn over a new leaf and make her the best kind of a husband. But this isn't finding it, and that is very essential. No DOLLY TRAVERS' TXTTKRTTAXCE 33 love in a garret for ''yours truly" or for the fair little Dollie. That old desk over there is where she said she thought it was. ^^^onder what kind of a chap her old man was anyway. Queer old cuss to hide a thing away like that. (Is Jmnting around the desk ivliile talkinfj) Wish Dollie could remember where he said he put it. Not there — nor there — Danged if I can find it. Sh — h — some one coming as I'm a sinner. (Hides behind curtain and looks out. Dollie enters center hack. Walks slowly colter front, eyes staring straight before her, expressionless as in sleepwalking, hands held out before her) IMcDowELL : Dollie. as I live. Sleepwalking, by Jove, and going right to the desk. She'll find the will. (Dollie walks slowly down front, then over to desk. Sloifly reaches up and touches a concealeel spring. A drawer opens and she takes out long, folded paper. Turns, faces audience, comes slowly forward, stag- gers, clasping paper to breast, sighs, and sinks sloidy to floor. ]\IcDowell, who has been watching all, comes swiftly fonvard as she falls) IMcDo^vELL (bending over Dollie, who is still asleep): Brave little Dollie, you have come into your own at last. This must surely be the missing will. "What a heavenly face! Those lips — how sweet! (Straightens up suddenly) Elliot, you haven't fallen as lov.' as that, have you? Aren't beauty and innocence — helpless and alone — safe in your hands? How a man shudders when he gets a glimpse of his own baseness! God help me! I'll be a better man from this hour on. And if I ever do amount to anything I'll owe it all to you, little angel of innocence and light. But you surely can't lie there until morning, sweet one. If one of those hags should find you with that paper, it would not be safe an hour. What shall I do? I dare not waken her, for she would die of fright and mortification. I know — I'll lay her on the couch. There — And I '11 take charge of this. (Carefully slipping paper from her hanel anel putting it in liis pocket. He carries hrr to couch, lays her down, and 34 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE covers her mth rug) Now, little one, sleep on. Your work is done. The days of your unhappy childhood are over and to-morrow's sun will shine on a new day — the day of a glorious womanhood. Good night — good night — (Soft music as he slowly backs off center) SLOW CURTAIN ACT IV Library of Travers home — same as Act I (Hans and Gretchen enter R., Gretchen dragging Hx\NS, ivho pretends not to ivant to come) Hans: Was ist mm? Gretchen (mocking him): "Was ist?" Vy don'd you de English spik? I dells you a dousand dimes alretty you must de English spik. (Hans makes gestures of not nnderstanding) Gretchen: Dn muss die English sprechen. Hans (laughing): Ja, Ja, Jetzt versteh Ich. Gretchen (angry) : Ja, Ja, immer Ja, Ja. I will ein school ' haben. I will be the teacher. (Turning to Hans and pointing to herself) Leherinn! (Pointing to Hansj Du, scholar, Schiller. Hx\NS (delighted): Ja, Ja — GniETCiiEN (impatiently): Ja, Ja ! Say ''yes"!, (Gets book and seats herself at little table. Gets bell, rings it, and seats Hans in front of her like a scholar. He tries to take her hand and put arm around her, talking German which she pretends she does not understand) Gretchen: No, no! Spik English! I am English. (Proudly) I no understand Dutch. (Hans, with motions of despair, seats himself. She puts primer in his hand, shows him lesson, and laboriously reads) ''a, b, c, d" — Hans: Ja, ja, Ich weiss. (He rattles off the alphabet in German, Gretchen trying to stop him) Gretchen (in despair): Ach was fur einer dummer Esel. (Then goes over lesson laboriously again. Hans, at first yawning, drops head as if asleep. Gretchen, discovering Hans asleep, throws book down and shakes him. He 35 36 DOLLY TRAVER8' INHEKITANCE catches her around the ivaisf, lisses hey and makes her sit denim on seat ivitJi liini, facing front) Hans: Ach, meine Lieher, Ich liehe dich, Ich liehe dich. Gretchen: Ach, class ist aber sch'on. (Yields to his em- hrace) (DoLLiE enters center unseen j Gretchen (starting up): Ach it is late. I must vork. (She pushes Hans off R. in front of her wtiile lie tries to kiss her.) DoLLiE (coming front): Ah, happj^ Gretchen and Hans! Their troubles seem to be over, while mine are as deep as ever. This is my eighteenth birthday and I have insisted upon having my dresses a little longer at least. Somehow I feel as if something were going to happen to-day, and I am not going to allow myself to be un- happy. (She has walked hack to door in center and is looking out) Oh, there is IMr. ^McDowell ! Wonder what he wants. I'll run and meet him. (Enns off center^ hut immediately re-enters hanging on IMcDowell's arm. They come front laughing and talking as Elize enters B. She starts as she sees them, hut immediatehf recovers) Dollie (discovering Elize) : Oh, Elize, IMr. McDowell was telling me such a funny story nbout something that hap- pened to him when he was a little boy. (Laughing again) You must get him to tell it to you. Elize (patronizingly): Oh, indeed it nuist have been very funny, for you were both much engrossed by it. But Mr. IMcDowell, Avon't you sit down and tell it to me? (Seats herself on couch R.) And Dollie, won't you please do a little errand for me? I wish you would go to IMadame Fairabeau's and tell her to hurry with that gown she is making for me, as I want it for the Grovenor reception. (Fanning herself languidly) Hurry, child. Dollie (laughing): Why certainly, Elize, I shall be de- lighted to go for you. And I'll leave IMr. ^McDowell in your charge. Get him to tell you that funny story. (Looking hack mischievously at IMcDowell, she runs offL.) Elize (clasping hands): Oh, I\Ir. IMcDowell, I do so love DOLl.Y TTvAVKKS' IXIIERTTAXCE 37 luimorons stories, f Fixing cusliions on couch) T don't think we have half enough humor in pur lives, do you? ^IcDowELL (ivlio has been making signs of impatience and looking out after Dollie); I — ah — T beg your pardon. What, eh — what did you say? (Using eye glass) Elize: I said that I did not think we had enough humor in our daily lives — ^McDowell (asiele): The old eat! I wonder if she saw any humor in the situation last night? Elize : Come sit down. do. (He sits gingerly beside her) ]\Ir. ^McDowell, what has come between you and me? (Looking down and toying trith fan) We used to be such good friends, but, somehow during these last two or three weeks I — we — McDowell (aside): I'll let her know what's come between us in a minute. (Aloud) Why — I — don't know, IMiss Elize— Elize (in a low voice): It used to be ''Elize." jMcDowell: Oh, I hardly think I could have been so impo- lite as that. By the way, are you entirely recovered from your illness of last evening? (Elize starts) It seemed rather strange that you should have been attacked just as I was about to drink the coffee which you had just given to Dollie. (Elize shudders and then looks at him in a stupefied manner^ as he takes something from his pocket) Here, by the way, is some property of yours that I took from a tramp. Jack IMugwump. I found him in the garden disguised as a lace peddler. (Elize starts again) Here. (Handing her the ring and looking steadily at her) And I would advise you, ]\Iiss Elize, (rising) in the future to have nothing to do with such suspicious characters. And now as I have an important engagement, I must leave you. (Exit L. bowing. Elize collapses shuddering on couch, then starts up as though in agony) Elize : He knows, he knows, and I have lost him forever. Oh, how wretched I am ! (Exit R. sobbing) (IMcDowELL enters cautiously L.) McDowell: Well, the coast is clear again. I wonder wlien 38 DOJ;JA' aRAVERS' INHERITANCE DoUie will be back. She is the most provoking little minx. There was no necessity of her going on that errand, though it did give me the chance I have been looking for to settle things with Elize. I don't think she will bother me again. Dollie is a flower of a different color, and I fancy I'll not have an easy time w'ith her. (Taking tvill from pocket) But, I have this all safe at any rate, and I am sure by the number of seals upon it that it is legal and shipshape. (Reads) "Last Will and Testament of George Travers." Won't there be some surprise when this turns up? Wish I knew just wdiat it said, but of course everything must be Dollie 's. (Dollie heard singing center) Dollie (sings): "What's so fair as a day in June." ]\lcDowELL : Oh, I know something a great deal fairer than that, Dollie. Dollie (starting): Oh, von here yet! Where's Elize, Mr. McDowell ? McDowell: Mister IMcDowell ! Why so formal always, Dollie? I have known you for some time now, but you always keep me at arm's length. What's the matter? AA^hy do you keep me at such a distance ? Dollie (looking up at Mm and laughing mischievonslij) : Why you see it is quite a distance from me clear up to you. McDowell (bending down quickhj): Well, I can make the distance much shorter — now do yon see? Dollie (starting hack): Oh — I — McDowell (laughing): I had you that time. But seriously, why can't we be friends — nay, more than friends? (They have come front and he tries to take her hand) Dollie (drawing away): Why, I — ^you — why I don't under- stand. McDowell: Not understand? You surely must know what my intentions have meant, the last few weeks. Why, Dollie — little Dollie — I w^ant you for my wife. DcLLiE: Oh, you can't mean it. Such a little insignificant thing as I am, ]Mr. IMcDowell — DOIJ.Y TRAVEUS' 1N11KK1TAN( K ;j» McDowell: Now Dollie, don't say "Mr. :\rcDoweir' again. Can't you say ''Elliot" for my sake? But say "yes" anyway, for I do mean it. Dollie (half crying): Oh, I can't! And you — you have been so good to me, too. AVhy — why couldn't we just be friends, like we have been? McDowell: Of course we'll be friends — the very best kind of friends, but why can not we be lovers too, Dollie? Say— Dollie : Oh, I can't. (Almost crying) And you have been so good to me too. But I know I don't love you in that way. McDowell (much moved): Oh Dollie, don't say that. Dollie : Oh, I'm so sorry. And you are the only friend I have too. (Crying) Ever since Tom left me you have been so good that I — McDow^ELL (starting): Tom! Who's he? Dollie: Why Tom Deering. Don't you remember I told you that he used to be my only friend until you came. Then he just got mad and left me. (Sobbing) McDowell (aside): Hm — m — that's how the land lies. To be outwitted by a mere boy ! (Aloud) Well Dollie, don't cry, dear. If you are sure that you can't love me I sup- pose I must bend to your decision. But it is hard — terribly hard — Dollie: Oh don't! (Laying her ]ia)ids in liis) I feel so wicked. And I'm losing all my friends — McDowell: No, no, I'll always be that I hope. And now, little girl, cheer up! I've something to say to you. Didn't you tell me that to-day was your eighteenth birth- day ? Well, in this state you are of legal age now and can transact business. The matter of your inheritance must be settled. I have your interests too much at heart to leave you in this unpleasant situation any longer, especially as I shall leave town very soon. Dollie (crying): Oh, are you going to leave me too? Oh, what shall I do? INIcDowELL (hoarsely): Hush dear. Don't you see how hard 40 DOLLY TRAVER8' INHERITANCE this all is for me? I love you, child, as I never hoped to love a mortal being, and it would be impossible to stay here with no hope of ever making you mine. DoLLiE : But you know I '11 be your friend — your sister— McDowell (roughly): Oh, you don't understand. I want no sister's love. But there, there, little DoUie — let's say no more about it. I do believe you are such a child at heart that you can not understand a great passion when you see it. My only hope is that some good man will get you. And meanwhile I want this will question settled. I want you to send immediately for your father's lawyer, ]\Ir. Seymour, and summon your stepmother and sisters. I shall be back shortly and I think matters can soon be settled. And now comes the hardest part — I must say good-bye to you, little Dollie — -sweetheart, as I had hoped to call 3^ou. For you and I will never meet ciuite like this again. (Taliing her hands and drawing her te) him) I want to sa3^ little girl, that knowing you has made a better man of me — Dollie (dratving hack): Oh, how can you say that j\Ir. McDowell? (At a reproachful look from him) Elliot — ■ I — I have been a despicable little sneak, it seems to me. I never can think of that day in the garden without blushing — McDowell: And I can never think of it without a feeling of joy because it was the first time I ever saw your sweet face. (Giving her a long look) And now it will stay in my memory forever. (Sighing) But this isn't busi- ness. Now do as I say and — good-bj^e my darlings good-bye. (Bending^ he kisses her on the forehead and exits L. Dollie throtvs herself sohhing on the couch) Dollie: Oh, why couldn't I love him? And yet what do I know about love? (Laughing mirthlessly) I believe what he said was true — I've been so starved for love since Father died that I don't know the real article when I see it. Certainly Tom Deering has not bothered me much with his friendship of late. (Sadly) "Well, I suppose, as I have said before, I shall have to fashion m^^ life without friends. But this is not attendinsr to the business DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE 41 . Mr. McDowell spoke of — I suppose I had better call up Mr. Seymour. (Goes to telephone and while she is codl- ing Tom comes in center hack and listens) DOLLIE: Central! Please give me 244-L — Hello — Is this ]\Ir. Seymour's office? — Will you call him, please? — Hello, is this Mr. Seymour? — This is Dollie Travers — Yes — Dollie — Dollie Travers — I would like to see you on business here as soon as it is convenient — Yes, I am at home — ^You know the place, of course — Yes — Well then, I may expect you in about half an hour — Very well, good-bye. (Hangs up receiver) Tom (coming forward): Hello, Dollie — Dollie (screams) : Oh ! Tom Deering ! — What do you want to scare a person half to death for ? Tom: That's a nice welcome to give a fellow. Dollie: What kind of. a w^elcome do you deserve? Where 've you been all this time? I've needed you just awfully — Tom': Needed me? I like that! Haven't I seen you around wdth that dude of a IMcDowell all the time? He was off with the old love and on with the new pretty quick, w^asn't he? Dollie (stamping foot): Tom Deering you just keep still! I'd have you know that you are talking about the best friend I ever had. Tom : Fine friend he is ! Dollie : Well he is — or was, rather ! He 's gone now. (Half crying) It's wean, it is. to talk about a man that's gone and can't defend himself. ToM: Gone! You don't mean that he's left town? Dollie: No, not yet— but he's going to. Tom (coming closer): What do you mean, Dollie? What's he going away for? I— I thought he— well— he and vou — Dollie: Well, what did you think? I don't think you have much right to think anything about me at all, the way you have been treating me. But I don't mind telling yQ^^ I_I sent him away I guess. Anyway he said— ToM^ (eagerly) : Yes, yes what did he say— 42 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITANCE DoLLiE: "Well, he said — ■ (Hesitating, and in a low voice) — that he couldn't stay if I — didn't marry him. Tom (hoarsely): And, you — DoLLiE (impatienthj): Oh, you stupid boy, can't you see? I don't love him that way, so of course I had to send him away. Tom : Oh Dollie! (Grasping her hands) That's the best news I've had in many a day. You can't know what I've felt. He is a man — and rich, I suppose — and, as you say, I'm only a boy. But what there is of me is yours, Dollie — to do with as you please. Why I love you so that I couldn't stay around while he was — Dollie : AVhat — what did you say? Tom, you love me — Dollie Travers ! (A great light breaking over her face) Oh, now I see why I couldn't love him. It was you all the time. Oh Tom, what is it? (Putting hands to breast) It aches so in here — as if my heart would burst — This — this is love. Oh Tom, Tom — (Holding out hands to him) — I'll never be lonely and friendless again — ■ Oh — (Sways toward him. He takes her in his arms) Tom (kissing her): Oh Dollie, this is too good to be true. I'll probably wake up soon and see McDowell talking to you again. DoLLiE: Don't think of it again! I never thought of him in any way but as a friend. And Tom, I feel as if he has done more for me than I shall ever know. There was something about that time last night at the mask ball — when Elize fainted, you know — that I never under- stood. I felt some way as though he was shielding me from something. Anyway he has shown a great interest in my affairs and has helped me in a great many ways. It was at his suggestion that I summoned Mr. Seymour here to-day. You laiow it is my eighteenth birthday, and we are going to try to settle this matter of my inheritance. Come, let's go out in the garden and watch for Mr. Seymour. Tom : Wait a minute, Dollie. (Catching her left hand and examining her fingers) Can you imagine what I shall get you for a birthday present? (Catches her and kisses DOIJA' TRAVERS' INHERITANCE 43 her again. She runs laughing and remonstrating up center. Exit C. followed hij Tom. Enter Mrs. Travers, Janet and Elize Ji.) Janet: Well, I wonder what this neAv move of Dollie's is anyway. I haven't time to waste around here. (Looks at watch and paces restlessly up and down) Elize : Oh, Janet, do keep still ! You tire me so — Janet (impatiently) : Oh, you're always tired now. Mrs. Travers : Law, darters, don't fight. (Sniffling and looking at Elize) Ma^^be the good Lord will see fit to seperate ye an' then heow bad ye'd feel. (Crying into handkerchief) Elize : Oh, ]\Iother, keep still ! Goodness knows. I 'd be only too glad if He would remove me from this scene of earthly joys. (Sarcastically) Janet : Why Elize, how you talk ! I wonder something doesn't happen to you. I should think Elliot ]\IcDowell w^ould feel flattered to see you pining away for him. Elize : Oh, he's too much taken up with Dollie to notice me. But I do wish this business, whatever it is, could be soon done with. I shall have to go to bed. (Weardy) Janet: Oh, I lose all patience with you! Are you. going to become a confirmed invalid just because you were jilted by Elliot McDowell? I'd like to see any man that could — Mrs. T.: Gals, gals, don't quarrel neow! (Enter Gretchen L. ivith card which she hands to Mrs. T. She peers at it, and then gets out spectacles to try to read it again. Meanwhile Elize has motioned Gretchen to help her to lie down on couch, arranging rug, etc. Janet gives her an impatient look, and then snatches the card from her mother's hand) Janet (reads): ]\Lnurice Seymour, Esq.! AVhat's he coming here for? I wonder if it's something about this wretched will again ? Elize (rousing): The will again? I thought that was settled. Janet: It seems it isn't. (To Gretchen) Well show him in. 44 DOLLY TrxAVP:RS' INHERITANCE Mrs. T. (peering at card): Law, me — I — Janet: Now, Mother, you just keep still and let me do the talking. You'll only expose your ignorance. (Gretchen shows Mr. Seymour in. Hans follows cau- tiously hehind Gretchen. SJie sees him and when she comes hack takes him hy the arm and pushes him out in front of her L.) Mr. Seymoi^r: Good day, ladies, ^Irs. Travers, how do you do? (Shaking hands) And Miss Elize, you are looking rather pale this morning. And IMiss Janet, busy as ever I suppose. (Looking around) But where is Dollie? Janet: She hasn't come in yet, but — er — Mr. Seymour — Mr. S. : Well, my dear, what is it ? Janet : Well — To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit ? Mr. S. : Now I like that. Can't an old friend come to see you without his motives being in question ? Mrs. T. : Yes, yes. Law me, heow yeou talk, Janet ! Hev ye ben tew lunch, Mr. Seymour? (Bustling up to him) Mr. S. : Oh yes, ]\Irs. Travers, thank you. (Enter Dollie and Tom center) Oh, here she is now ! Well Dollie, child, how do you do? (She rushes up to him., holding out hanels) Almost a young lady, eh? Eighteen to-day are you not? Dollie : Yes, Mr. Seymour, but how did you remember it? Mr. S. : Oh, my dear, I was too well acquainted with your father not to remember the birthday of his only child. But Dollie, Miss Janet was just asking me the object of my visit here to-day, and for an answer I shall have to refer her to you, as you sent for me. Janet and Elize (together): You, Dollie! Mrs. T. : Law me, Dollie— Dollie (addressing them all): Yes, ]\Irs. Travers — Mother, Janet and Elize, I sent for ]\Ir. Seymour to-day, (Gretchen sJwivs McDowell in L.) that we might arrange some matters in regard to the estate of my father. You do not realize, perhaps, that I am eighteen years old to-day, and am no longer a child, to be treated as such. DOJJ.Y TRAV1^:FvS' IXJIKRITAXCE 45 McDowell: It was at my reciiiest that ]\Iiss Dollie arranged this meeting'. (Mrs. Travers, Elize, and Janet show astonishment. Tom, who has been standing hack, center, takes his place at Dollie 's side. Gretciten is standing L. and Han8 noiv comes cautiously in and stands beside her. She motions him to silence) McDowell (coming front): Yes, I have a document to pre- sent before you. IMr. Seymour, will you make the con- tents of this paper known? Janet and Elize (together): The will! Dollie: My father's will! Oh, Mr. McDowell, where did you find it ? Mr. S. (examining paper. All crowd around — ]\Ir. S., Tom, Dollie, and ]McDowell center — Mrs. Travers, Janet, and Elize R. — Hans and Gretchen extreme L.) : Yes, this is the last will and testament of George Travers. I drew it up myself, and I assure you it is correct, wit- nesses and all. I knew it would come to light some day. ]\Ir. Travers was peculiar and thought it safer in his own keeping than with me. Death, came upon him^ so suddenly that he did not have time to apprise me of its whereabouts. Dollie: But he did tell me — ^Dear papa — (Weeping) But I never could remember where he said he put it. Only sometimes in dreams it would come back to me, but by morning every impression would be gone. IMr. McDowell, where did you find it? McDowell: Well, my dear ]\Iiss Dollie I don't know as I shall tell you. (Sadly) I had hoped to do so some time, but now all my plans are changed and I think you will have to let the mystery of the missing will remain a mystery still. It is all correct is it not, ]\Ir. Seymour? I\Ir. S. (who has been examining paper): Yes, it is correct in every particular. Dollie: But, Mr. McDowell, where— Elize (.sarcastically): Dollie, don't you think we might dis- pense with these reminiscences of yours and IMr. ^Ic- 46 DOLLY TRAVER8' INHERITANCE Dowell's until we learn the contents of this document which has so mysteriously come to light ? Janet: Yes, Mr. Seymour, read it please — and get it over as soon as possible. We are beggars I suppose. Mr. S. : Well, it won 't take a great time to read it that 's certain. (Reads) ''Last AAall and Testament of George Travers. — I, George Travers, being of sound mind, do make this will and testament and by it all other wills or testaments heretofore made by me are declared null and void. To my wife, Mehitable Travers, I do devise and bequeathe the sum of ten thousand dollars. To my beloved daughter, Dorothy, I do bequeathe the residue of my estate and all properties of which I die possessed, to be hers and hers alone, subject to no conditions what- ever. George Travers Witnesses : Martha Kreutzer William Berger'' Elize: Just as I expected. Janet : Well, Dollie you have your rights at last. I always told ]\Iother that you'd come out on the top of the heap. Mrs. T. : Law me, Dollie, I always knew your pa set a power o' store by ye. An' it ain't more'n nateral, ye bein' his own child. JxVNET: There' there. Mother, you've said enough. You'd better be thinking of your own children who are left without a penny. Elize (rising): Well, Dollie, I congratulate you on the suc- cess of all your schemes. I suppose you and Mr. McDowell are to be congratulated also. — Come, IMother and Janet, I am afraid we are sadly "de trop" in this happy family. Dollie (impulsively): No — Oh no, do not feel that way! — Eliza, Janet, Mother — I am sure I want you all. Stay here — and if you can only love me a little, Ave may all be happy together. Elize (sarcastically): Thanks, awfully. Mrs. T. : There, darters, I always told ye she was a good little thing, but ye wouldn't believe it. DOl.LY TKAVERS' INHERITANCE 47 Janet (scornfully): Yes, Mother, we always knew you loved Dollie. Why Mr. Deering, how do you do ? It is quite a while since you have favored us with your society. Have Dollie 's new charms added such a luster to her glory that you have come back also? Dollie, you are favored. Tom (aside): Spiteful old cat! (Aloud, to Dollie) Shall I tell. them, Dollie? Dollie: Yes, I suppose so, but they won't be glad. I've no one to be glad for me. Tom : Oh, you know you have me. McDowell and IMr. S.' (together): What's this we hear? Mr. S. (looking at Tom and Dollie) : Well, this looks rather suspicious. Are we to offer congratulations? Dollie (confused): I— yes— we— Oh, Tom you tell them I can't! Tom : Yes sir, you may. And although I am only a boy I 've won the prize and shall do my best to appreciate it. Allow me — eh— to introduce you to the future Mrs. Tom Deering — (Takes Dollie 's hand) Mrs. T. : Law me — Janet and Elize (together): Well, I never — (Mr. Seymour and IMr. IMcDowell shake hands with Tom and Dollie. Gretchen and Hans come up to Dollie and Tom J Gretchen: Ach Fraulein Dollie, you haf one schatz, sweet- hard, now. You will not any more cry. I cry not any more now because mein lieber Hans is here. Dollie (taking her hands): Yes, dear Gretchen, I hope my troubles are over as well as yours. IMr. S.: Well, well, little Dollie, this is rather sudden, but you never can tell what a woman will do. I wish you every happiness I am sure. IMcDowELL : And so IMr. Deering turns out to be the fairy prince for our little Cinderella jiere. And since he is the choice of your heart, my little friend, I wish you both all the good luck possible in your journey through life. Dollie : And we — Tom and I — will never forget how nuich 48 DOLLY TRAVERS' INHERITAXCE we owe to you, for it was through your efforts that the long lost will came to light. How everything has changed! Oh, I know we are going to be very, very happy from this day on. (Tom and Dollie are center, hands clasped. Mr. Sey- mour on their right, ]\IcDo\a^ll on their left, Mrs. Travers and daughters extreme B., and Hans and Gretchen extreme LJ CURTAIN PLAYS There is a growing tendency to make the Friday after- noon literary exercises correlate with, and grow out of the actual work of the school as far as possible. There is also a demand for short, sensible, educative plays, suit- able for such occasions. We offer the following: THE MISER OF RAVELOE. Based upon George Eliot's novel, Silas Marner. An attempt to represent in dramatic form a few of the most striking incidents of that story. Plannea and written by the members of the sec- ond-year class of the Cairo (Illinois) High School. Time, one hour and a half, or may be prolonged, by pantomine and songs as suggested, to two hours. Price, 25 cents. THE BLACK KNIGHT. For eighth grade. Grammar School, and First Year High School. Pharaphrased fro^n Scott's Ivanhoe and presented in the Westport, Conn., schools. Presents Scott's Ivanhoe splendidly as a review- and intensely interesting as a play upon its merits, with- out a knowledge of Ivanhoe. Time, one hour. Price, 25 cents. THE PROBLEM OF RHETORICALS, LITERARY EXERCISES AND CLASS PROGRAMS. Much of the work done under the above head is, to say the least, not satisfactory from an educational point of view. The time is to a large extent wasted. We offer a set of programs on an entirely new plan, Practical Educational Programs for Literary Societies and Rhetorical Exercises, by Christianna Spencer, High School, Spring Valley, IVIinn. Among the many programs, a number will be found making splendid outlines for essays, composition work, debates and general assistance in history and exercises in rhetoric. 31 Programs. Price, 25 cents. We have a full line of all material for school entertain- ments. Ask for Entertainment Catalogue. A. FLANAGAN COMPANY, CHICAGO LIBRARY OF CONGRESS llillililillllillllllililiiiii 016 215 212 9 Suggestive Essays and Orations By CHARLES READE. For Commencement and other occasions. A new edition, entirely revised, rewritten and reset. This volume contains over fifty essays and orations on all subjects, and for all occasions, together with a choice collection of salutatories, valedictories, class songs, class mottoes, (both English and I^atin), and a brief treatise on how to speak in public, This last is an im- portant feature of the book. Its aim is not as a text book in elocution, but as a practical help for the student who has never before spoken in public and desires to make a creditable showing. A chapter on how to make com- mencement successful has also been added with the hope that it may prove of much benefit to teachers handling this difficult problem. The book contains matter for Grammar Schools, High Schools and Colleges. It is the best and most complete work on the subject published. Printed from large new tj'pe, on good paper. 224 pages. Cloth. Price, $1.00 CONTENTS FOR. COMMENCEMENT Salutatories: For Grammar School, High School and College Valedictories: For Grammar School, High School and College, and three Valedictory Poems Class History Class Poem Two Class Prophecieg Class Will The Oration Three Class Songs A President's Address A Farewell Address Address to Graduates ON ORATORY The Orator Selected Subjects (one hundred) FOR SPE,CIAL DAYS The Union Soldier The Soldier Boy Class Mottoes (over fifty) Class Yell How to Make Commence- ment Successful Parts of an Oration Our National Holidays The Union Soldier A Tribute to Our Honored Abraham Lincoln The Soldier Boy Dead Birthday of Washington Independence Day ESSAYS. ORATIONS AND ADDRE,SSES Forty-six of them in all. We mention a few: America a World Power Americanism America's Coming Great- ness Books Education Expansion Immortality of GoodDeeds I,abor and Capital Material Wealth of Uncle Sam Men : Made, Self Made and Unmade Mental Wealth of Uncle Modern Fiction [vSam MoralWealth of UncleSam Municipal Reform New Era in Higher Edu- cation New Opportunities in a New Age Our Country Power and Aim progress of Humanity Pursuit of Happiness," The Success in Life True Greatness True Socialism, The UncleSam: His Character Uses of Education for Busi- ness Value of Reputation Wealth. Etc., Etc. A. FLANAGAN COMPANY - CHICAGO