ks dotvn and appears ashamed.) MustapJia. Ah 1 you lazy boy, you may well blush at that question. Aladdin is an idle fellow; he delights in nothing but in wasting hia time about the streets. Aben. This is not well, nephew; you are now of an age to look forward in life : perhaps you did not like your father's trade— I will provide you a better — (Aladdin seems fleased.) — But first we must think of changing his dress, then I will introduce you to good com- pany, and show you all the fine sights. Aladdin. Oh ! my generous uncle, how shall I thank you sufficient- ly for your kindness ? (Kazrac's by-play continues.) Aben. {to Kazrac ) — No more of thatl Aladdin will, no doubt, do well ; ]f I find him tractable he shall want for nothing. See, yon- der is a draper's shop ; step in, Aladdin, and procure yourself a new suit. Aladdin. I will, I will — oh dear, oh dear, I have no money ! Ahen. Here, in this purse, is gold to pay the merchant ; go and equip yourself [Gives Aladdin money ) Aladdin. Egad, this xmw uncle of mine is as generous as a Prince; rich, I'll warrant, as a Jew ; but as ugly as — (Abenazac turns arouad fiercely) — Oh, lord! I'm gone, uncle. \_Exi', l. (Kazrac wants to follow but is restrained by Abenazac.) Aben. Well, sister, you may now be under no concern about your son ; leave him to me. As soon as his dress is changed, I will iutro- duce him to some great friends of mine, and at night we will sup with yDu. Mustapha. Do, my dear brother, I shall be so happy to see you. Aben. Farewell, my dearest sister ! {Embracing her, he turns to Kazrac) Mustapha. Good-by, brother ! What a lucky woman I am, to find at this needful moment such a valuable friend 1 1 knew my dream would turn out something good — I was sure it would ! Oh, I am a lucky woman 1 Good-by brother; make haste back, brother ! ]Exit, d. f. Aben. 1'hus far, Kazrac, my scheme succeeds to my wish. This boy, this Aladdin, has, I am persuaded, a good and pliant disposition ; and him will I — Re-enter Aladdin, l. Aladdin. Well, uncle, here I am — ^how do I look? Am I the thing ? {Struts about admiring himself, and showing himself to Kazrac.) — How do I look, cousin ? I suppose you are my cousin, at least I ^ Aben, Why do you think him your cousin ? Aladdin, Because he's like you. (Aside.) — Only not quite so ugly (Kazrac expresses he cannot answer him, but will serye him.) SC. III.J ALADDIN. 7 Aben. He is not your cousin, but your servant. Aladdin. W'ell, servant, what's your name? Aben. His name is Ivazrac ; and though dumb, you will find him faithful. (Kazrac signijies assent ) Aladdin. Ah 1 he is dumb, is he ? Poor fellow ! — (Goes to him ) — I like thee, servant Kazrac ; give me your hand, you shall have a good place. Aben. Come, now, let us proceed; soon shall you behold sights that will surprise and delight you. Aladdin. I'll follow you wherever you please. What will my com- panions say, when they see me in these fine trappings? Oh dear, how happy I am ! Come, my dumb servant ; come, Kazrac. [Exeunt, l. [Kazrac stops behind to warn Aladdin of his danger, but is prevented by Abenazac.) Scene HI. — An Apartment in the Palace of Prince Badroulbadour. The Princess, and her confidants, (r.) Zobyad and Amrou, discovered witii all her attendants in various picture-'^que situations. Zobyad and tlje other females form a short dance. Princess. Thanks, gentle friends ; but vain are your endeavors to amuse my agitated spirits — let all retire but my Amrou and Zobyad. [The rest retire, c. D.j Amrou, my lather's resolution may be fixe.] to wed me to the Vizier's son, but mine is fixed not to have him. i tell you, Amrou, he is the object of my aversion. A.-nou Madam, the Vizier's son is brave, and has many claims to your father's favor. Princess. But he has none to mine ! Amr('U. Marriage, perhaps, may alter your opinion. Princess. Never ! 'i he dervise who watched over my tender years assured me that I should wed a youth named Aladdin, who, though born in obscurity, would surpa-s all others in worth and virtue ; such is not the Vizier's son, Azack. Amrou. But he is determined to obtain your hand. Princess. And I to refuse it. Azack. ( Wuhoui.) — Slave, let me pass ! Guard. (Without.) — My lord, you cannot enter the apartment. (A biis'le is heard at the door, l.) Princess. See, Amrou, who dares thus break in on our presence. (Amrou goes to the daor.) Amrou. Illustrious Princess, it is the Vizier's son, Azack. ' Princess. Tell him, Zobyad, we wish to be alone. (Mus c.) [Exit Zobyad. AzacTc. (Without) — I must and will see my betrothed betbre my departure ; I have her royal father's sanction to fix this ring upon her plighted hand. {Music.) Re-enter Zobyad, in haste, l. Princess. Here, Zobyad, quick, take this veil, and as me, receive this rash intruder. Perhaps, when he sees he's made the subject ot our mirth, his hated passion will be less obtrusive. S ALALDIN. [act. I. (Music— The Princess puts her veil upon Zobyad, who reclines on the ottoman just as Azack enters, L.,who fiercely goes up toZoBYAD, think- ing her the Princess. A scene of pantomime between them, in wliicli ZoBYAD, with many affected airs, refuses the advances of Azack : but at length allows him to put the ring on her finger, which when he has done, while he is on his knees to kiss the hand of the supposed Prin- cess, ZoBYAD slowly removes the veil and discovers herself, to the as- tonishment of Azack, who rises in a great rage ; the Princess appears, and joins with Zobyad in laughing at him, and he goes oft", l., foaming with rage.) Scene IV. — The Mountain ; a blasted cedar at the foot. l. c. f. Fnter Aladdin, Abenazac and Kazrac. Ahen. (fo Kazrac.) — This is the spot; and mark, where at the mountain's foot the blasted cedar stands. Aladdin. Stay, uncle; whither would you lead me? We are now a long way from home ! Aben. Fear not, nephew ; here, I shall show you that which will fill your young mind with wonder and delight. Aladdin. Another time ; now^ I am tired, and must return. Ahen. Must return! Rebellious youth, do you dare — (Strikes Aladdin ; he smks on ]tis knees.) Aladdin. Oh, mercy ! mercy ! What have I done to deserve such treatment? Aben. Peace, I command you. I am your uncle, and supply the place of a father — 'tis your duty to obey me. Aladdin. {Aside) — Oh ! that I weie now wuth my poor, dear mother ! Aben. Peace ! — Kazrac ! (Abenazac motions to Kazrac to bring some sticks, which he lights into a fire, and into which he throws the charmed dust from the wand — thunder — the tree parts, and shows the stone.) Aladdin. {Frightened.) — Preserve me, heaven ! — (x to Kazrac, r.) At)en. Nephew, calm your fears. Know, that under this stone is concealed a tieasure greater than all the Emperors in the world pos- sess; it is ordained that you alone can move it, and enter the cavern. (Music— Both Aladdin and Kazrac express their doubts of ever being able to move the stone.) Kay, doubt not : take hold of the ring — take hold of the ring, I say I (Aladdin, tremblingly, takes hold of the ring; it yields, and discovers a __ frightful chasm.) Aladdin. By my fears, it is a terrible abyss 1 Aben. Observe my orders — descend the cavern ; at the bottom you will find two spacious avenues, one of which is planted with var- ious tre'^s, loaded w ith beautiful fruit : in the other you will observe a SC. v.] ALADDIN". 9 lighted lamp ; take it down and extinguish it, then place it in youi bosom and bring it up to me. Aladdin. I will. A hen. If you feel an inclination to have any of the fruit of the garden, you may gather as much as you please. But ere you enter the cavern, take this ring, it is a charmed one, and is a preservative against all misfortunes, (Aladdin puis ring on. his finger!) — Now en- ter boldly, and success attend you ! Aladdin. Say no more ; in I go ! — Mercy 1 what is come to me all at once? (Kazrac, who has had his by-play during the scene, here violently op- poses his going in.) Ahen. {Fiercely.) — Ha! do you hesitate ? Aladdin. Hesitate ! No, no — I have all the courage of a lion ! Stay — bless my soul, it certainly is a frightful looking place. [Siill hesitating.) Aben. No more ; but enter it this instant ! Aladdin. "Well, well, don't put on such a terrible face I I know not which is more to be dreaded, your looks or this dismal hole ! Good-by, till I see you again. (Enters cave, l. c. f.) Aben. Farewell ! Observe my orders. — He is at the bottom, and already out of sight. Yes, fortune, soon shall I have thee at com- mand I Now, slave, follow me to yon rising rock, to guard that no imhallowed footsteps pass till his return. CAbenazac is going, r. ; Kazrac remains, and goes towards the cave. Abenazac turns, and pulls him off in anger.) Scene V. — A Magnificent Cavern, formed of two avenues, in one of which are rows of trees full of beautiful fruit, representing jewels of different colors ; and the other is illuminated by the wonderful lamp, and its attendant glories. On the wings large vessels of gold and silver. Music. — Aladdin is discovered descending the side steps (ii. u. e.) of the Cavern, cautiously — at length he comes down. Aladdin. Thus far I have passed in safety ; though every minute at the hazard of my neck. What a beautiful place, and what a booby I was to be afraid of entering it! I wish my poor, dear mother was here ; what delicious looking fruit — I'll gather some, to please the old dame. {Music — plucks fruit.) I declare they are not fit to eat ; they are as hard as stones ! But now to business — where is this wonder- ful lamp? {Music — looks about, and sees it at the bottom of the avenue.) — Ay ! there it is ; now then, I must take it down, extinguish the light, and put it in my bosom. I wonder what he can want with this shabby thing? (Takes down the lamp and thrusts it into his bosom. Gong sounds : he Btart'^— retuvn.s, and i?oes anionLC the trees, and after gathering more fruit., which lie puts into his tuiban, lie ascends the steps of the cavern.) 1* 10 ALADDIN-. [ACT, IL Ahen. {From the lop.) — Aladdin I Aladdin Here, uncle, here ! Ahev. ' Have you got the lamp ? Aladdin. I have 1 Aben. {E'igerly.) — Bring it to me. Aladdin. {Aside.) — Not till I am safe above ground again. Ahen. Bring me the lamp, I say ! Aladdin. I w^ill ; but first lend me your hand to assist me in get- ting out of the cavern. Ahen. The lamp! Aladdn. First help me out, I say I Ahen. I command you to give me the lamp, this instant, or — Aladdin. I am loaded, and cannot get at it till I am out of this place. Ahen. Wretch, for thy obstinacy thou diest ! {Noise and struggle is heard from the top. Aladdin x to l.) Base traitor I dost thou dare to oppose my will ? Thou shalt share his fate — this cavern shall entomb thee both forever! (Music. — Noise at the top. Abenazac throws Kazkac into the Cave, and the stone rolls over the entrance.) Aladdin- Oh! cruel flite, to be buried alive! {Music) Oh, Alad- din ! Aladdin! and art thon never to see the light of heaven again? And thou, too, poor, dumb, faithful Kazrac, must suffer for thy lovo to me ! Is there no means, then — no hope — and to die ! Shall I call for help ? (Music. — Kazrac, as if a sudden thought strikes him, points to the ring,, and tells him to rub it. The Genii of the King rises from the glory behind, c.) G^nii. What vi^ouldst thou have ? I am ready to obey thee as thy slave, and the slave of all those who possess the ring, Aladdin, r. c. Whoever thou art, if thou canst deliver us from this frightful cavern. (Music. — ^The Genii waves and motions them to follow. The rock opens again, and they exit through an aperture at the top. Kazkac, all joy, dances about, and gathers some fruit ; and the scene closes as he goes up the steps.) ACT II. Scene I.— Inside of Mustapha's Cottage. Cupboard, Door. Window, Unier Widow Mustapha with her distaff in her hand, R. Mustapha. It is in vain, I cannot work ; my eyes are drowned in tears for the loss of my poor boy, ,Ah! Aladdin, I shall never be- hold thee again. {Weeps.) so. I.] ALALDIN. 11 Aladdin. {Without) — Mother! mother I MusTAPHA screams, runs and opens the door. Enter Aladdin and Kazrac, d. f. Muslapha. It is my poor boy — I had given you up for lost ! Happy am I to enfold you once more in these arms ? Where have you been ? What has become of your uncle ? I feared we should meet no more. Aladdin. Nor should we. but for this dear friend and champion. Get me a chair, I am faint. (Kazrac reaches a chair) Muslapha. Here, my dear boy, sit you down ; you look pale, have you seen a ghost? Aladdin. I cannot answer you now; give me something, I have not tasted food since I left you. Mus'apha. Alas ! my son, I have nothing in the house to give you. You may go and look, but I fear you will find nothing in the cup- board, Kazrac. (Kazrac goes to look.) Here is some cotton, which I will instantly sell and buy you bread. Aladdin. Keep your cotton, mother, for another time — here's this lamp, sell that, it may purchase us a dinner. {Taking the wondtrful lamp from his bosom.) Muslapha. A lamp — well, I hope it may ; but its very dirty though — it looks like gold — if it was polished up a bit I think it would fetch something more. (She begins to rub the lamp with her apron, when a noise like the gong is heard, and the Genu of the Lamp rises close to her — he bears a lighted baton.) Muiilapha. Oh ! mercy ! oh I (She swoons and falls into a chair, and Kazrac, who comes forward with a dish in his hand, lets it drop and falls on his face trembling.) Genii. What wouldst thou have ? I am ready to obey thee as thy slave, and the slave of all those who hold that lamp — I and the other slaves of the lamp. Aladdin. {Snutching lamp from his mother.) — Genii, I am hungry, let me have some food. (The Genu waves his baton, and immediately rises a table (c.) containing a splendid service and the most costly viands — the Genii instantly disappears.) Aladdin. Egad ! since I know the virtue of this lamp I need not wonder at that vile uncle of mine being so anxious to obtain it. Ah, the Princess 1 Rest there, thou treasure, at some future period I may want thee. {Piifs lamp in hisbosom.) Come, mother, rouse from your trance, and banish your fears; see, here is plenty, sit down v\ith me and eat Kazrac, Kazrac, rise, for shame ! Musiapha. I am frightened out of my wits I What has become of that frightful figure ? (Kazrac slowly rises.) «jC* 12 ALADDIN. [act. II. Aladdin. It is gone — come and eat. (Kazrac and Mustapha gaze at the suppor.) MusfapJia. Ha ! Why, son, whence comes this ? To whom are we obliged ? Has the Cham been made acquainted with our poverty, and taken compassion on us?— or did your uncle do this? Aladdin. He ! — he is an impostor — an assassin — for he attempted to destroy me, by burying me alive, and would have succeeded but for Kazrac's generous aid. Mustapha. Ah! the perfidious traitor, base deceiver and betrayer of mankind ! He looked like one of those vile magicians who by their wicked enchantment and sorceries have commerce with the devil I This is delicious wine. (They uncover the dishes, and they all eat voraciously.) Aladdin. Excellent, indeed ! Bat thanks to fortune, I am out of his power now; he beheves me dead— he has let me into a secret which, if I mistake not, will reward me for all the sorrows and fatigues I have undergone. But come, mother, eat — take another cup of wine? ' Musfapha. With all my heart ! — (Drinks.) — Come, Kazrac — what beautiful dishes these are ; they appear to me to be silver. Aladdin. (Advancing.) Solid, no doubt ! — To-morrow you shall hear how this magician, by the power of his art, opened rocks and caves, wherein I beheld the beautiful gardens with such tempting fruit in them — here, mother, here is some of it [Shoioing the jewels.) Mustapha. They are certainly very beautiful to look at, but I'll venture to say of no value. Aladdin. Perhaps not, but that remains to be tried. [Trumpet) — Hark ! what can that mean ? Mustapha. I'll step and see. (Looks out of window^ c.) Aladdin. Do, mother — I'll show one of these briUiants to some jeweller— dear mother, what's the news? Mustapha. The Princess, daughter of our Cham, is now going in procession to the royal baths. Aladdin. I'll see her ! Mustapha. But how ? All shops and houses are ordered to be close shut up, and every person is commanded, on pain of death, to keep at home. Aladdin. No matter, my curiosity impels me to see the Princess, and see her I will ! Mustapha. Beware, Aladdin, lest your curiosity lead you into trouble. Aladdin. Be under no apprehension, mother ; I feel as if inspired with new life. I will see the Princess, and who knows but my dreams may be realized ? — (Aside.) — Kazrac, follow me. [Exit Kazrao and Aladdin, d. r. Mustapha. What can have raised the young rogue's curiosity to co,. the Princess? Curiosity is a strange thing, but I .!.!';• any our '.«• ^»s; SC. III.] ALADDIN. 13 I ever had any. — (Trumpet.) — The procession is now at hand; I should Uke to have a peep at it, of all things. But where ? — the chimney top is a snug place — I'll try that. If I break my neck I'll have a peep — that's what I will. [Exit, R. Scene II. — Grand entrance to the Baths : over the door of which is writ- ten in large letters " Royal Baths." A wall encloses one side of the stage. Aladdin shows himself from behind the folding doors of the Bath, watching to see the Princess ; Kazrac is also there in a comic situation. Music — Enter a number of Female Slaves dancing — after figuring a short time they retire. Enter Princess, followed by Zobyad, and other female attendants (l. ) ; at the appearance of the Princess, all the slaves fall on their knees and bow their heads. Aladdin seems greatly charmed with the Princess. When she arrives within a few paces of the Baths, she pulls off her veil, and gives it to Zobyad ; then orders her attendants to retire — they exit, (l.) The Princess enters the Baths, followed by Zobyad. Aladdin and Kazrac again come from their hiding places, but return on the approach of Azaok, who enters (l.) thoughtfully, vowing revenge for the insult offered — he watches his opportunity to steal towards the Baths where the Princess entered, but . is prevented by the return of Zobyad, who indignantly opposes his entrance. Azack stamps with passion, and endeavors to force his way into the Baths ; a struggle ensues between Azack and Zobyad : she find- ing herself growing weak, calls out, " Help ! treason !" The Princess rushes out from the Baths in great fear ; Azack quits Zobyad, and is about to seize the Princess, when Aladdin and Kazrac rush forth, and while Kazrac encounters, overcomes, and forces Azack off, (l.) Aladdin receives the Princess, swooning in his arms — the alarm ia raised. Aladdin. Kevive, beauteous Princess, receive the first embrace from thy adoring Aladdin. Princess. Did I hear the beloved name of Aladdin ? Azack. {Without, l.) — Guards, guards — follow! follow! (Aladdin resigns the Princess to Zobyad.) Enter Azack and Guards, l. (Kazrac and Aiaddin are surrounded on all sides, except on the side of the high wall ; Aladdin, seeing his danger, draws the lamp from his bosom and rubs it.) Aladdin. Slaves of the Lamp, rescue thy master ! (The wall is seen to divide, and they exit through it ; Azack and Guards are about to follow, when the wall closes and catches fast his sword : and the scene closes with the Princess and Zobyad all joy, and Azack vowing revenge.) Scene III. — ^Inside of Mustapha's Cottage. Enter Aladdin and Kazrac, d. f., and Mustapha, e. Mustapha. Well, Aladdin, have you seen the Princess? 14: ALADDIN. [act. ll. Aladdin. I have, mother ; and the sight would have been fatal to my happiness, but that I mean to ask her in marriage of her father, this very day. Mus'npha. (Staring ) — Alas! the boy's brain is certainly turned ! AlaAdn. No, mother, I am in my perfect senses, and you must bear my proposal. Mustapha. What! vrhat ! I appear before the royal presence in this mean dress ? I should sink with confusion. Aladdin. Yes — and you must set off directly. Miislapha. Why nobody dares ask the smallest favor from the Cham Tongluck without a magnificent present, and what have you to offer? Aladdin. I have provided one worthy of the greatest monarch's acceptance. (Kazrac brings out a China dish, full of the jewels of the cavern.) Look there, mother. Mus'.aplia. Those glass baubles! They will never do, Aladdin; they won't, indeed. Aladdin. Never fear ; do you only lay them before the feet of the Cham. Mustapha. Well, well, I can refuse thee nothing ; but indeed this is a foolish business. (Aladdin still entreats.) — Well, I'm going, but just let me put a clean white napkin over the dish — there, now it looks something like ; good-by, Aladdin. {Aside) — Foolish business ! Aladdin. Stay, mother ; should my rank and fortune be demanded, say I will answer that when permission is given me to approach the royal presence. Mustapha. Ay, no doubt when you get permission that will be easily answered. Aladdin. Kazrac shall accompany you, mother, to bring the first in- ielHgence. Kazrac, you will accompany my mother to the Cham, who now with his court enjoys the refreshing breezes on the river's bank. I shall wait at the foot of the first bridge. Now, mother, love and success attend you. • [Exit, l. (Exit Mustapha and Kazrac, d. f., who with much ceremony offers to carry the dish, and at last is permitted by her to do so, who walks be- fore in great pomp.) Scene IV. — A verdant Plain on the river's bank. Bridges, with water- falls rising one above another. The Cham, Vizier, and attendants dis- covered, R. Cham. Vizier, for thy long and faithful services the forfeit life of thy son Azack we freely pardon ; but remember, his bold offences for- ever has deprived him of the hope of my daughter's hand. Enter Offioer over Bridge. Oficer. (Kneels.) — Mighty Cham: a woman meanly dressed, attend- SC. IV. J ALADDIN". 16 ed by a single slave, implores an audience ; she has a most magnificent present to lay at your royal feet. Cham. Let her approach. (Music. — An officer beckons on Mustapha and Kazrac, who cross Bridge — she takes the dish from him, and after much comic action, she takes off the naplsin and places it at the feet of the Cham, and they both prostrate themselves before him — on seeing the jewels, he utters an exclamation of surprise.) Cham. Can this be real ? — they are, indeed ; and each of them is worth the v^^hole that I possess. Rise, good woman, and say what great reward can we bestow for a present so inestimable. Mustapha. {Slowly rising.) — Light of the sun: sword of the world: glory of nations : all powerful Tahi Tongluck, first pledge your royal word that no harm shall come to me or mine for my presumption. Cham. Whatever may be your request, our pardon is already granted, Muslaplia. Then, mighty Tahi, my request is no less than the hand of the Princess, your daughter! Cham. Who demands this honor ? Mustapha. ( With pride.) — My son, Aladdin. Cham. His estate and rank? Mustapha. Those jewels are an answer. (Mustapha and Kazrao strutting ) Cham. Let Aladdin appear before us. (Mustapha motions to Kazrac, who, all joy, runs over the bridge from L. tOB. The possessor of these wond'rous jewels may well aspire to the greatest monarch's alliance. (To Officer.) — Inform my daughter we require her presence. [Exit Officer. (Distant Music. — Procession, prepared by the slaves of the lamp, passes over the bridge from l. Aladdin is in a costly Chinese palanquin, sup- ported by four brilliantly dressed jEthiops : all sorts of rich presents, &c. The Cham and court are all astonished at the magnificence, and above all Mustapha, wbo does not know her son for some time. Alad- din comes forward, tbrows himself at the Cham's feet, and takes his hand.) Cham. Rise, Prince Aladdin— for by that title we presume we must address you. Aladdin. No, mighty Tahi Tongluck ; I cannot boast a royal line- age, but if these humble offerings can excuse my daring hopes to gain the hand of the Princess Badroulbadour, these, and ten thousand such, shall be at your command. Cham. Whateer thy rank, ennobled seems thy mind— gain but my daughter's consent; ours thou hast already. But see, the Princess scales. 16 ALADDIN. [act. II. (Music. — MusTAPHA, who has all this time been staring with astonish- ment, at length spies Kazrac, whom she beckons to her, and seems to inquire of him if that is really her son, and seems overjoyed when she finds who it is, and attempts to go up to him, but is restrained by Kazrac.) Unter Princess, Zobtad, and Attendants, r. Princess. {Seeing Aladdin ) — By all my hopes, the very man that saved me from dishonor ! Cham. Daughter, this youth solicits the honour of your hand ; and Aladdin w\\\ obtain it, if he can find as much favor in your sight as he has in mine. Princess. Aladdin — beloved name ! Aladdin. Lovely Princess, pardon my presumption in aspiring to so much beauty — your charms are to be blamed, and not Aladdin's passion. Princess. To obey the will of my father must ever be my duty -j but deem it not too frank if I declare that now I feel it will be my plea- sure. Cham. To complete your happiness, Aladdin, the marriage shall b« solemnized this very hour. Aladdin. Though great my impatience, royal sir, allow me first to build a palace for my Princess ; grant me a spot of ground, and before night — though strange as it may seem— it shall be ready for my beau- teous bride. Cham. Take, my son — for so we must now call you — wh^at ground you please ; and now let us return and prepare for the nuptial cere- mony. Lady, permit us — [Offering his hand to the Widow Mustapha, who has run up to Aladdin to embrace him ) Mustapha. Oh, dear ! your majesty does me great honour. Lord 1 lord ! who would have thought it would have come to this ? {Slaves approach to fan her.) Out of the way, rascals. (Music. — ^The Cham waves his hand. Aladdin gives a signal to slaves, they all rise and place basons on their heads, and all go off in regular order.) Chorus. Hail ! happy, happy pair ! Long and prosperous may ye live ; Guardian spirits hear our prayer, The choicest blessings deign to give. May not sorrow, pain, nor care, E'er disturb the happy pair. so. I.J ALADDIN. 17 ACT ni. Scene I. — A Khan, or Chinese Caravansera. Enter Abenazac, disguised, l. Aben. At length, by magic art inforraed, I know that youtli, Aladdin, and the slave, who foiled my fondest hopes, have escaped their threatened doom — 'scaped, too, with the lamp — my curses on the power that saved them ; but my vengeance shall through the world pursue these hated foes. {Laughing without; goes up l.) Enter Citizens, r. First Citizen, Well, this is a rare youth — something like a Prince; here have I lived these forty years, under the very nose of the court, as it were, and never was taken the least notice of before. Second Citizen. To be sure. When the ceremony was over, how the black slaves did shower the gold ; by the long beard of the great Fo Hun, I got twenty pieces in the scramble. . First Citizen. Yes — and what a palace, too, raised in the space of two hours ; there's carpenters and masons for you! Ahen, ( Who has heen listening alteniivelt/, advancing l.) — My good people, nmy I request to know who has performed these wonders ? First Citizen. There's a precious ninny! Second Citizen. Why, man, have you no ears, that you have not heard of Prince lA.laddin's marriage with our Princess ? — have you no eyes, that you have not seen his wondrous palace ? Aben. (Aside) — Aladdin ; Prince Aladdin ! then I have found you I My good friends I am a way-worn traveller from the wilds of Tar- tary ; this moment have I reached your city's friendly shelter. Would you gratify a stranger's curiosity, and lead him to this wondrous palace ? First Cit'zn. Why, your speech seems fairer than your face — come, I will conduct you to the palace, and then return to make merry with my friends here. [Exit, r. Ahen. Lead on. {Aside.) — Let me but gain possession of the lamp — then, Aladdin, it will be my turn to triumph. [Exit^ r. Second Citizen. Ay, ay 1 times are altered, indeed, when the old Vizier ruled the roast. Well, well, thanks to fortune and Prince Alad- din, his reign is over. Glee. When the Vizier sway'd, and his laws were obey'd, Victims of power and knavery, The nobles moaned, and the people groaned, Subdued by abject slavery. 18 ALADDIN. [act. III. Now changed our state, with joy elate, No more we wander wearily ; But blithe and gay we pass the day, And every face looks cheerily. [Mceunt R. Scene II. — The exterior of Aladdin's Palace. Enter Aladdin, Princess, Amrou, Zobyad, and Attendants — Aladdin in a superb hunting dress, followed by huntsmen. Aladdin. Beloved bride, my companions now call me to the chase ; but my absence will be short ; those charms secure my quick return. Princess. Though e'er so short, the lagging moments will tedious seem till blest with the presence of my Aladdin. (Bugle sounds.) [Exii Aladdin and Huntsmen, l. Ahen. {Without.) — Who'll change old lamps for new ones? {Laugh- ter.) Princess. What means this tumult? Aben. { Without.) — Who'll change old lamps for new ones ? Amrou. It is the populace laughing at a strange looking man for crying, Who'll change old lamps for new ones ? Princess. Why, truly, Amrou, this is' indeed laughable. I have often observed an old, dirty looking lamp which that comic fellow, Kazrac, seems to be so careful of I should like to see, in the way of sport, if this strange creature would really give a new c«ie for it — bring him here, and let Kazrac be sought for. \^Exit Amrou and an Attendant. Re-enter Amrou, with Abenazac, disguised as a peddler, with a basket under his arm. Aben. {Aside.) — Thanks to this disguise, I have thus far escaped suspicion. Princess. Good morrow, friend. Abm. The same to you, most lovely Princess. Princiss. What have you in your basket? Aben. Lamps — new ones — which I make it my business to exchange for old ones. Amrou {Peeping into the &a5^e^.)— That's something new ; you're a curious man 1 Aben. And you're a curious woman; and that's nothing newl (Amrou is laughed at by the Princess.) Re-enter Attendant. Attendant. Mighty Princess, Kazrac now reposes in his chamber; the lamp which you wish for is, as is customary, laid beneath his pillow. Princess. Well, Merchant, will you take your chance of obtaining it, for a new one? Aben I will, I will — here, take my basket ; only show me the apartment ! Princess. Bless the poor man, his wnts are certainly disordered : here, Zobyad, show him the chamber. — [Music.) [Exeunt, SC. 111.] ALADDIN. 19 Scene III. — Kazrac's Chamber. Zobtad leads on Abkxazac, and points to Kazrac, who is asleep on a couch. — Music. — Pantomime scene be tween Abenazac and Kazrac, who is disturbed by the many fruitless attempts of Abenazac to take the lamp ; at last he succeeds, gets the lamp, and hugs it to his bosom. Aben. 'Tismine! 'Tis mine! — Welcome thou dear instrument of sweet revenge I long sought, at last ob tained — now tremble, Aladdin I [Exit, (Music. — As he goes off, Kazrac awakes, mis-^es the lamp, runs about ia an agony of despair, and exits.) Scene IV. — The Exterior of Aladdin's Palace. Miter Genii of the Lamp. Genii. ( Calling on his agents.) — Appear 1 appear 1 (They fly to different parts of the palace ; Abenazac is seen assisted by the Genii, dragging the Princess from the interior of the apartment, followed by Zobyad ; the Princess swoons in the arms of ABENAZAO-he waves the wonderful lamp, and cries " To Africa !" The whole of the palace rises, and appears to fly through the air, leaving a barren plain and distant hills. During this Kazrac enters, he cries and alarms the Court ; the Cham and Court come out and witness this extraordinary scene.) Cham. Where is Aladdin. Officer. Mighty sovereign, this morning he went to hunt in the palm-tree forest. Cham. Azack, instantly seek him out, and bear this, our mandate —let him instantly restore our loved, lost daughter, or the most cruel death awaits him. [Exeunt. Scene V. — Open Country. Enter Aladdin and Huntsmen. Aladdin. Follow, sportsmen ; the chase being over and the day far spent, we will return and partake those pleasures prepared for us in our absence. Proceed. I follow. (As they are going off, Kazrac enters, who in pantomime informs Alad- din of his dreadful loss ; Aladdin seems lost in despair ; Azack and Guards rush on — the Guards attack the Huntsmen, and drive them off. While Kazrac defends Aladdin, during their fight. Aladdin is engaged with some of the party. Azack is overcome by Kazrac. Kazrac runs off, leaving the vanquished Azack — who follows.) Aladdin.— Oh, fortune! fortune! why hast thou forsaken me? [He clasps his hands aid rubs the ring ) 20 ALADDIN. [ACT. III. Re enter Kazrac. Chorus of Spirits in the air. Brave Aladdin, gentle youth, We hear thee, and are on the wing : Ever swift to succor truth. Fly the Genii of the Ring : Hither, hither, this way bend, To Africa our course we tend. Hither, hither — come hither ! (Aladdin and Kazrac go off, and are seen to traverse the air in a beauti- ful car, with the Genii of the Ring — Azack enters, sees them, and exits in a violent rage.) Scene VL — Splendid Saloon— an open window at the side — in Aladdin's Palace, which has been transported to Africa ; a Banquet — Sofa in re- cess. Princess and Zobyad discovered ; Abenazac on his knees before the Princess.) Ahen. Idol of my soul, cease to lament ; thy tears cannot recall the dead. By the mandate of your father, Aladdin has paid v^ith his life the forfiut of his crime. Princess. Hence, monster ! Aladdin still lives — lives to revenge this outrage ! Aben. Know ye not, lady, that you are now in Afric's clime, and that I am here sole lord and master ? Princess I know that I am in the power of a villain whose hideous form inspires but horror and disgust. Aben. {Enraged.) — These scoffs have sealed thy doom; a few minutes only T give for reflection — then either voluntarily accept my hand, or force shall make thee mine ! [Exit. Princess. His threatening looks affright me ; but death will be preferable to compliance. (Kazrac puts his bead in at the window, and cries " Ha !") Merciful powers ! Kazrac and my husband ! (The Princess and Zobyad run to the window, Aladdin and Kazrao jump in at the alcove — she rushes into Aladdin's arms.) Aladdin. Now check your transports, love ; one hope alone re- mains of rescuing you from this magician, my mortal enemy. Princess. Quick — tell me the means. Aladdin. Though contrary to your nature, you must for once dis- semble, by seeming to consent to his wishes. Princess. Well ? Aladdin This phial contains a deadly poison ; invite him to partake your banquet — when overpowered with wine, and intoxicated with imaginary bliss, I will contrive— / SC. VI.] ALADDIN. 21 Princess. I understand you ; but — Aladdin. Desperate is our case, and desperate must be our remedy • if we fail, death will be my lot, and worse than death, yours I Princess. Hark, I hear him ! Retire. [Exit Aladdin and Kazrac. Ahen. [Without) — This way — follow me. Enter Abenazac and Slaves, with bow-strings. Ahen. Behold these instruments of death, and then for your answer, lady. Princess. {With a coquettish air.) — I have reflected on your propose', and were I assured that Aladdin was no more — Aben. I tell thee he is dead. Do you doubt my knowledge ? Princess Ah ! no — perhaps if some short time might be allowed — Aben. Beloved Princess, these hopes revive me! — As the first pledge of vour affection, let me partake your banquet. Slaves retire I Princess. All except Zobyad. Aben. Zobyad ! Princess. Who will amuse us with one of her native steps. Aben. Be it so. [Exit Guard (Abenazac takes the Princess' hand, who conceals her disgust, and suf- fers him to lead her to the banquet.) Aben. Our wines are famed for their excellent flavor; sit, lovely Princess. Princess. Now, Zobyad, begin your dance. (Abenazac, and Princess sit — Zobyad obeys, and diverts the attention of Abenazac, while the Princess pours the poison into a cup ; she takes the cup and pretends to drink, then offers it to Abenazac, who con- tinues to drink till he seems quite overpowered with the wine.) Aben. I say, happiness attend our union. (Aladdin comes from the alcove several times during this scene, and hav- ing been watching for an opportunity, now comes forward, behind Abenazac : Kazrac throws down part of the banquet : Abenazac turns around, and exclaims, " What hated form is this ?'' — throws away the cup, runs to Aladdin, dashes him to the ground, draws dagger, and is about to stab him, when Kazrac catches his arm, wrests the dagger from him, and ptabs him — he falls — Kazrac holds him down with one hand, wliile with the other he pulls out the wonderful lamp from Abenazac' s bosom, and laughs. The Princess screaming, falls into the arms of Zobyad — Aladdin rises and takes her, while Abenazac ex- pires on the sofa — they exit.) JScENE YII. — The Plain where the Palace stood. Music — The Cham, Vizier, and Court discovered in diflferent attitudes — a distant chorus is heard : 22 ALADDIN. [ACT 111. Gently cleave the ambient air, Safely back our master bear ; Who the wondrous lamp possess, Them we worship, them we bless ; Ever faithful, ready still, Slaves obedient to thy will. Daring the chorus, they are seen descending, bearing ontheir shoulders Aladdin's Palace, in which appear the Princess, Aladdin, Zobyad, and Kazrac — The Genii of the Ring over them. The Palace is deposited on the same spot as before. The Cham embraces his daughter, sup- ported by Aladdin on his knees — the Widow Mustapha weeping, with her arms around Aiaddin's neck — Kazrac in ecstasies. The curtain falls slowly,amid flourish and shouts. END OF the drama. Disposition of the Characters at the Fall of the Curtain. ATTENDANTS. GUARDS. ATTENDANTS. MANDARINS. MINISTERS OF STATE. OFFICERS. AXkROTS. KAZ. ZOB. CHAM. BAD. ALAD. HUS. YIZ. AZAO. L.1 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 014 545 999 ^ '\