1 A o A^° 0—=? n^5 1 ^=^ n 4 i PLUNKETT The Mineral! 4 2 3 lONA -^-^'~ "^ 3 — 1> 2 5 ACI 8 FRENCH'S STANDARD DRAMA. No. CLIL THE MINERALI: OR, THE DYINa aiU'T. A ROMAN T.IC DRAMA, IN TWO ACTS. BT HENRY GRATTAN PLUNKETT, Author of " 2'Ae Corsair^s Reveyigc" '' Crime and Repentance, or the Drunkard's Warning" "■Diana's Revenge,''^ '■'^ Joe Miller i^ " Faust" cjc. TO WHICH ARE ADDED, A Description of the Costume — Cast of the Characters — Entrances and |Exits— Relative Positions of the Performers on the Stage, and the whole of the Stage Business. AS PERFORMED AT THE LONDON AND AMERICAN THEATRES. NEW-YORK : SAMUEL FRENCH, 122 Nassau-St.— Up Stairs, 2 5 r r-1 ,^ ^ •cr *— ; -c Bq q S r-; pq ;4 a f> H to 1^ c bo ss ss -a ^ SS "^ .52 o E 5 > s's • >- H >- J5 CD bt;5 1 § a youn icle to irvant 1 5 '^ be aj c^C^^cCi:^ '-^Jjn AK I SANTA BARBARA « r ©ostumcs.— (The Minerau.) MARTELLT.— Broad red striped shirt, broad black and red braces, skin cloak, black trunks, flesh arms and legs, buff lace boots, belt and pouch. FRANCISCO. — The same description of dress, but lighter and bet- ter, with buff strap shoes. MARCO AND ANTONIO. -As above, but different colors, and much worn. NICOLO.— Old man's handsome gray and black shape, buff shoes, red rosettes, red stockings. BARTOLO.— Old man's brown shape, blue rosettes, blue stockings. RICARDO.— Handsome light blue shape, white silk stockincrs, white shoes. ° PIETRO. — White and red comic shape, striped stockings, buff shoes, rosettes. LEILA. — Black boddice. blue shaped petticoat, blue stockimrs, blacl« shoes, buckles. Second, White bridal dress. Third, The same as the first. ANNETTE. — Handsome peasant's dress of the .same description. The Minerau (who are the principal persons in this drama) are a set of men who gain a precarious existence by searching for gold in the niountains,^ and are looked upon in no very favorable lio-ht by their more prudent neighbors, the farmers of the surrounding valley. THE MINEHALI. ACT. I. SCENK l.-Thc Valley Of An.asca.Co,tage -^-f^^'^^ J""''^*' ^"^^^'^ by dislanl view of a Village. I ime bunnse. Enlet Francisco. Fran "When the first beam of the warm sun gilds the mountain's ;tu'Tj;rir:tr.rai' :i. :t W.^ no .,,. of„,;>.ved Le»a, LrirXtS^mu^t you wail' Nay a„,we, „o. ! She «ho wMchmy eaie, feel hath flown along the path .hat lead, to thee Lei. So thou hast ever said. Fran And dost thou doubt me 1 Lei. Am I not Acre? what need of further answer Mvi« None— none, my own fair girl ; but thy letter- /irSoeaks of nee;ssi V to see thee ! Since the first happy hour in wMcKe met "hLe much wished to speak to thee on what cor^. cerns us iLh • no-no, I mean not that, but what affects 7ne closely Fran aS has my heart been so misjudged by thine, that thou dost 't.l\7a5n^Taf ?m-here! Thou hast ever said, thou will be present at my bridal day. Fran. Aye ! and on it call thee mine Lei. Hold! Frayi. 1 swear Lei I have believed thy oath too often. £rYo?worf;'"„r™ a p,on,i.o, pe,h.p. a willing one, that .honl. occasion-cause thy absence (as it hath often strangely done.)-" "«!>• THE MIKERALI. O line written by my hand, and left in the thin cleft of yonder rock, would safely reach, and brinjj thee to me. Fran. And have I failed 1 Lei. Now, thou hast not ; but one that loved would scarce neglect a first request, or let a week elapse. Fran. Leila, but yesternight, I found thy note. Lei. Indeed ! F'ran. As I do live ! Lei. [Quickhj.] I do believe you. But 'tis strange — Eight days have passed, since in that place a written wish I left to meet you here ; you came not — and my heart grew sick, as day by day I watched ; 'till weary thus of living upon hope, which still did grow the fainter — love overswaved all that was due to pride, I — 1 wrote again. Fran. Dearest Leila ! morn and eve, I toiled to reach the place. The miser who has buried heart and gold in one lone spot, and lives but while he -sees his treasure safe, did never seek with scrutinizing eye, Keen made by hope and fear, the darling covert of his earth hid idol, as I have watched for print of thy small tiny foot, where my heart longed to find it. Eci. Again I say, I do believe thee — but that letter ? Fran. Nay, fear not, 1 will seek for it. But thy urgent wish to see me now. Lei. They have fixed a day for mv betrothal ! Fran. And that day 1 Lei. To-morrow ! Fran. What ill chance kept thy letter from me, this indeed is sudden.. Lei. Alas ! it is. Fran. And they would have thee marry one, whom well they know tb'/U lov'st not ! Lei. Even so ; though he hath been my playmate from my childhood I love him not. I loved him not, when othsrs were not by, and now I only hope I hate him not. Fran. Still should'st thou be betrothed to-morrow, twelve months (so custom wills it.) must have passed, ere thou canst wed ; there's hope in that. Lei. [Firmly^ None ! do not deceive thyself, or misjudge me : once bethrothed, I bring no shame on those who gave me life, and if I find not peace in the calm grave, ere those twelve months of misery are past, the world shall see me at the altar's foot, and greet me as his bride as one whose heart would break, ere she would break her faith ! \^Cros.' I own it — Psha ! I'm in love, and would be rich. Mar. Thou lovest ! Fra7i. By St. Francis do I — now the murder's out. Mar. And whom ! Fran. Thou soon shalt know her as my bride ; till then I leave thy fancy on the stretch. 3Iar. Poor youth ! Fran. I look'd for gratulation, not condolence. Mar. Francisco, knowest thou what thou art ■ I'ran. Like thyself, I am a niinerali ! ^ M(ir. Thou art. and there's the curse. — Who, who is it thou dost love, I do not wish to know by name — Is it one beneath thee? Frail. Beneath! Martelli thou dost remember when my first helpless years of infancy were passed, and I could watch thee scale mountains' sides, to dig for what seemed then of far less value than my infant toys ; thou didst explain unto my childish mind, the worth of this same ore — I watched thee day by day, though young, my limbs were vigorous be- yond my years, there was a tall and dizzy steep through which thou didst conjecture such rich gold ran as would repay the toil, could but the way be mastered, and the summit reached. — Hanging midw.ay be- tween its base and crown, with every sinew straining its full strength upon the morn, you saw me clambering that fearful heioht, the bright sun flashed in my aching eyes, still I kept my course, the winds shook me with their breath, onward I went — in brief, the first return I ever made for all thy care and nurture, was the gold I won from that bold stet^j. 3far. It was a fearful task, and bravely done — but what is this unto our present purpose? Fran. As upward then I looked, so do I now — as danger then I scorned, so do I now. Mar. Boy, boy it grieves my soul to damp thy hopes — but listen to me, when first I started into life, flattered with the hope of wealth, lured by the freedom of the scene, thinking to breathe the mountain air, and share the wild birds' liberty, scorning the shackles of the herding crew who surfeit the close town, and drag through life in one unchang- ing round of sameness, willingly I followed the free trade of those with whom my youth was spent. Brief time had passed ere { coukl see that in the fancied greatness of some plodding fool I was despised — I cared not then, my heart was young and bold, scorn I repaid with scorn, insult received unsparing chastisement from my daring hand — onward I went in the free course my youth had chosen. But years did bring me wisdom ; I will not blind the truth ; I was, and am despised. Fran. And wherefore ! Mar. Ay, and wherefore? I know not, save because I was an honest man — had 1, like some of them, piled up my heaps with the cold- blooded L'rasp of the keen usurer, wrung tl>e very means of life, and so the life itself from the oppressed and starving wretches power placed witliin my toils , had a heart's drop flowed for each accursed coin tho beggared gamester added to my heap, not even the life, in desperation wrested from himself, with his own maddened hand, would have cried 9 THE MINERALI. shame upon me, though I had been the black and damned cause ot the unholy deed. [Crosses lo l. h.] No — so I could thrive, men's ser- vile knees would have b(>nt low to my inci easing Jieaps — I should have been lauded, worshipped. But for that with the limbs that nature gave me, with honest strength I grappled with the ru/ numerous guests, male and female, c. Bar. (i,. H.) My fair girl, they mother's second self, this day gives thee to another guardian ; ond though the choice hath taxed thy father's jealous care, 'tis hard to part wiih one without a tear, who's first re- membered smile warms an old man's doting heart ! Ricardo, take my daughter! [Ric. crosses to c] And think that thou dost rule her, and her father's joys. Ric. (r. c.) If by my love I can secure the maid a life unscathed by care, doubly I heap my own fair hopes of happiness. Lei. {Gazuig inlcndly rouwl.] Not here ] Could he have mocked me 1 Ric. Maiden, thy hand. hei. [^Drawing back.] Comes he not 1 Bar. Why pause you, daughter? Ric. Maiden, I ask thy hand. Lei, [Aside^] He hath deceived me. Bar. What speak you ! Lei. Nought, father, nought. Ric. Again, I ask thy hand, in proof that thou dost plight thy free and willing troth. Lei. [Axide.] All hope is past! [Goes slouly towards Hic, as she is about to give her hand, she suddenly returns, and ihroios herself into her father'' s arms overcome by her feelings.] Father ! Nic. (r. h ) What means the maid ! Bar. 'Tis but her girlish fear ; she is unused to meet with many. and doth but blush to own her young heart's love — but in her name I speak. Nic. It may not be — the contract is not binding, unless by free con- sent, with her own lips certified. Bar. I knew not that thou wa'st so strict a formalist. Aic. 'Tis for my nephew's good. Ric. He is right! Bar. Then Leila, speak for thyself! [Leii.a looks anxiously round — pauses — advances a few steps as if undetermined how to act. Nic f Crosses lo c ] 'Tis but one word, come speak it maiden. Bar. Aye, speak it maiden. Fran. [ Without, c] Speak it not, dearest Leila. Lei. [With a faint scream.] Hah! 'lis he ! 'tis he 1 ^n/c7- Fkancisco, c. d., catches her in his arms, //ic Guests all stand snrpiised. Fran. Leila, dearest Leila — calm thee, calm thee, how thy heart beats, did'st thou, would'st tliou think if I had life, my plighted failti niight be neglected. 1* 10 THE MINERALI. Nic. ,_To Bart] Know you the youth 1 £a> . Till now we never met. Nic [Sarcaslicall.i/.] Your daunrhter hath been well 'tended, sir. Bar. Why do you cling around tiiis stranger, girH [Takes h%in from him and puis her l. h.] Young man. what would you here, that thus despite of courtesy, you rudely rush midst sought and valued guests, making your boldness, not our loves, give welcome to you 1 Fran. I had brief time to stand on form, good signor, and as 'twixt us few words will be most welcome, for that suspense has never yet been cherished, I humbly come to crave your daughter's hand. JVic. [and all the Guests.] You ! Pic. [Aside to Annette, l. h. 2 e.] Why didn't he say so before 1 Fran. Aye, I ! see ye aught strange in that, that thus ye start ? Bar. The maidi'n is betrothed.* Fran. She is to me. Nic. To thee 1 no marvel that she faultered then, when asked to speak. Bar. [To Leil.k.] Know'st thou this youth 1 Lei. [Fallennij^.^ I do. Kic. And would'stthou wed him 1 Lei. I, with my iather's Fran. She would. Bar. Art mad ! • Nic. [Sarcas/icalli/ to B.^rtolc] Signor Bartolo thou art called dn honest man, and our district chronicles do so report thy father's father I give thee joy. Bar. What mean you 1 Nic. I do congratulate you on your son Francisco, the Mineralo. [All Ike guests start, and exclaim The Mini;r.\lo ! — Leil.\ half drawn from him. Ric [Drawino- his dagger.] Crossed by a hound like this ! Villain ! [RicARno springs toioards Francisco, who throws down his cloak and folds his arms — the Guests cry " Down with him.'' As Ri- CARDO is about to close, Leila throws herself upon her knees between them Lei. Spare him — for my sake spare him. Fyan. f2'o Leila] Plead not for me, maiden. [To Ricardo.] Armed as thou art. could thy cold blood but make thee dare the mountain's steep, I'd hurl thee hissing to its base. Ric. Threat'st thou \ outcast I Fran. Thy tongue doth wtll, to move beyond my reach. Lei. Dearest Francisco, peace. Bar. Speak not to him, girl — hear you not he is a Mineralo ? Spurn him as you would the venomed adder. Lei. Never ! If there be blame, let it fall on me. Honor hath marked his every word and action, though love — yes, I own it — love did blind my eyes to aught that look'd like danger, and perhaps o'er- swayed my duty ; still I alone should meet your censure. Bar. Leila, wilt thou break thy father's heart ! [Passes her to i.. Fran. Old man. albeit I do love thy daughter more than life, I would THE MINERAL!. 11 not have one tear herald tlie bitter mournings of thy throbbinjT heart, I ciiiikl nut lay my heail upon the pillow that still has itniu^ht me placid sleep, bartereJ even for my soul's foiiJ hopes. W I do wed thy daugh- ter, thou sJKilt not curse her nor me. Nic. [To FuAXCisco.] J am a man of peace, and like not brawls. In .plain terui.s, my nephew comes not wooing with an empty hand. Three thousand ducats do I hold for him, on the wcdditiif day to be paid down. How say'st thou — can'st thou follow me the sum ! If so, thy right is equal, and the maid's voice shall name lier husband. Fran. Thou know'st the tithe of it would beggar me a hundred times. Nic. I knew it not, but guessed as much ; say the betrothal takes not place to-day — darest thou hope, in the succeeding year, to come prepared to pay the money down? Fran Give me time, and let me try. Nic. Signor Bartolo — I, for my nephew, do consent, and here give up all claim to thy fiir daughter's hand, if the term e.xpired. the iOne- ralo having the gold amassed, do hold his purpose — remembering ever, should he fail, 1 hold the maiden bound, and trust her sense will prompt her to comply witli willingness. Fran She will, I answer for her — old Signor, thy offer's fair and honest — I thank you for't, and here pled^je I my word for the last time — upon her bridal day, we meet, or part for life. Bar. Thou hast brought shame ou me and mine, young man, by thy this day's proceeding — hut as the fault, and its proud showing, have by the maid been nur.^ed. I must e'en say content for her, if not myself. R'C. [ Who has been iaiki/'g apart with Nicoi.o] I too must force my lips to .'^ay '• content," but we shall mpet auain. Fran. And if we do, let me advise (t!iy late rash taunts being now forgiven) thou'lt teach thy tongue some gentler phrase, that we may meet, if not as friends — at least with coolness. Ric. Dost threaten ! Fran. No, but' in kindness warn, for if we meet as foes Ric. What then \ Fran. My bridal day may come vs'ithout a rival. JLei. ^Reproach/ u/li/.] Francisco 1 Fran. Li'ila. I've done. Jiic. Look — should we meet Nic. Peace, nephew I Well have no further brawling, youth, go thy ways, ami learn respect for years. [Cro.fses to him.] Signor Bartolo take thy daughter in. Maiden, reflect, and curb thy love with reason. Nephew, along with me — fear not, the bridal banquet will be spread for thee. Bar I will not ask pardon for what I could not help. When next we meet, may it be happily. Farewell to all. [Ric.^RDO offers Leila his hand — she shrinks from him, and gives it to her Father — a.sr they go out, she pauses at door, and looking at Francisco, exclaims L,ei. Fortune speed thee. THE MINERALI. 12 Fran. Fear not, Leila— love hath ncrveil my frame, I'll dig the centre, but I'll buv thv hand -now to the mountains, to wm the price oflife. •' ^ [Music— £xtt, c. Fie [Peeping in over ANSKTTK'fi shmthkr] Is he q;one1 Ann Why didn't you say so before ? St. Peter ! here's a piece of work. Lord, lord, what a young firebrand it is, by the mass I woukiu t bathe with him for fifty ducats : how the water would boil and hiss ! powder is an icicle to his hot blood— didst see him threaten Signor llicardo ] Ann I did, Pietio. but who are the Mineralil Fif.. Why. have you never heard before! Lord bless you, they re little better than robbers and slabbers. ^nw. I thought they lived by finding gold. • t u 1 1 1 Fie So they do, but there are strange ways of findmg it. 1 should be sorry to meet 'one of "em with hriglu ducats in my possession, for he mi'Mit quite accidentally mistake my pocket for a gold mine, and imaaine the shortest cut'toit, would be by performing that ceremony on my throat. Certain it is that many a coined piece, has come from their graspimr hands, that' never met the eyes in its pristine shape ; many a rascal is rich this moment, that was a beggar the one before. Ann. Psiiaw ! , i . .1 . t -i Fie. Pshaw if you please! but who would have thought that Leila didn't love her lover ? Ann. Whv, I did „ , . , , ,. . . Fic. You did, why didn't you say so before ! it's my behef you re a cruel unnatural couple. , , • 1 t) Ann For shame, Pietro, I tell you 1 don't blame her neither, 1 m sure, though Signor llicardo gave me a ring, not ior tins finger though —[PoinU to the wedding fimjer.\Y ex. I mu^t say the Mineralo is Pie. A wild cat, all hair and claws. Ann. A very fine young man. Pic. You never heard any body say so before. Ann. O yes, I have. Fic. It's a li— bel upon fact — who have you heard T Ann. Why a great many people you don't know. Fic. No, nor vou either. t^ • 1 Ann. Yes I do, though, only I've forgotten them. Besides, do you know their ballads 1 Pj>. ]\-o,— bow should I ! I never heard they had ?ny before. Ann. Ye:i, dozens, siiall I sing you one ! Pie. I'd as lief you pinched a pig's tail at my ear in my first sleep. Ann. But I imll sing it. , ■ . Fie. You will, why didn't you say so before? then you needn t have asked ; for if you will, the devil couldn't stop you. Ann. Listen. Fie. iPutling his cap down or,cr his eyes ] Yes. SoNOi — ANNiiTTE. [Introduced.] As the song concludes; Martelli appear.^ at the c. o. Annette sees him, and screams. Pie [Raising the cap.] I never heard such a note as that before THE MINERAL!, 13 Ann. {Pointing to Martelli.] Pietro, locrlc there — there's the • Pie. [.S«ei/i^ Martelli.] The devil. Ann. Or some other gentleman. Pie. I never heard hiin called a gentleman before ; but if he is one, we are not fit company for him. Mar. (u.) Stay ! Pie. Hem ! you're very good — ;but I've got some important affairs to attend to, that I didn't think, of before, and \_Asidc^ I say, Annette, are you quite sure he hasn't a tail? Ann. Don't be so foolish — Can't you see he hasn't 1 Pie, No, I can't, damme, he might have one in three volumes under his cloak — Look at his feet and legs, do you see 'em ! Ann. [Pettishly ] Yes, and I wish yours were ha'f as good. Pie. They have always been considered unrivalled before. Mar. [ Aside, r. h ] No guests, no sounds of that same mirth. I dread to hear — the bride is betrothed. Ann. What did he say '! Pie. Curse me if I know, I never heard any body mutter and grumble so before. Mar. Maiden, is not this the house of Siu;nor Bartolo ? Ann. Yes. so please you — [Tt» Pietro] He is one of the guests. Pie. He has never shown his face here before. Ann. Come you to the betrothal, sir ! Mar. No. that is — I wish to learn if it has taken place. Ann. Oh, dear, no, sir — the strangest thing Pic. Such as was never heard of before. Ann. Just as Signor Ricardo asked her hand, she drew back, and when her father insisted, s^le swore Pic. A thing she was nevrr known to do before. Ann. Silence, Pietro, or I'll hold my tongue. Pic. A thing you were never known to do before. Ann. So please you, Signor, she refused, and in the end persisted, so that, 'stead of her intended lover, if at the twelve months' end a Mincralo Mar. Whatl Ann. Should come to claim her. having three thousand ducats, or the worth in gold, why, he s-hould have her. Mar. Heard you his name ? Ann. No, Signor, the maiden knew it not — but vowed she loved him. [Martelli .\carchca eai'crly in his bonoin, and drawn a letter from it, slances his eye hurriedly over it, and bursts into an hysterical lansh. Mar. 'Twas for a Mineralo she refused iicr lover'' Aim It was, Signor. Pic. [C/0S5CS.] More fool she to lose a prudtmf match for such an outcast wretch. Mar. \_Passionatchj.'\ Ha I I'll — no, no, — I am noc so lost as to re- sent the insults of a (bol — Maiden, should'st thou see Bartolo's daughter, say the Mineralo will lose his heart's blood ere he fail to meet her at the bridal — Away — {Exeunt Annette and Pteti:o — '^{wktk'lia reading let- 14 THE MINERALI. tf.r.] "If you (lid ever love, come to Leila's bridal, whether thou art tliere or not, my deeds sliall show my heart, I know not what thou art, but knowing how I love thee, again I say — come." [Martelli takes several picccx of ore Jrom Inn pouch, and looks at than, as if in thougho, suddenly exclaims] The half — more than the half! she's mine. [Rushes off, V. END OF ACT I. ACT ir. Scene I. — Part of the Mountain. Enter Antonio and Makco, 1 e e. h. Ant. [Speaking ariffrily as he Oi^tri.] A blight and a curse on thy ill- natnre. Marco. A blight on thine own folly ; why did'st play so long, saw you not fortune set her face against you 1 I did, and therefore chose not to venture my last ducat on a desperate chance. And thus, for- sooth, I've given license to thy tongue to tax me with ill-nature. Ant. Why, had you let me try but one throjv more, I might have won all back ; so again I say, a blight upon your grasping hand. Marco. Hark ye, Antonio I thou knowest the source from whence my pouch must win its weight, or tenant the poor air; thou art as free to seek for gold as I— why, thereibre, must I bend with toil to gain the ore for thee ! hast not hands, man! thou hast — then use them. Ant. I have ne'er been called a sluggard. Marco Thou wast well enough before the dice possessed thy mind, with hopes of winning the coined gold; but since the goodly effigies have met thy eyes, I liave not seen thee tax thy eyes to look for un- stamped inetal. Ant. What say ve ? this has been rare weather to brave the steeps ; the devil. I think, hath ta'en a holiday these two months past, and rev- elled in the storm ; besides, I dug and looked in vain, till 1 was sick — ill luck marked my course — what others found, and found as gold, would have turned into dross for me. I have seen them watch their heaps, piled from the very spots I could not trace a grain in. I passed them then, but if we meet again Marco. Well! Aiil. I'll tell them of my evil chance, and claim a share — should they refuse to lend a part Marco. What then ! Ant. Why, then, perhaps, I may take ali ; Isut this be sure of, I will have gold ! Marco. But not unfairly. Arit. No, no — not unfairly, no ; we'll play fairly for the good stake, life for life, atid the treasure for the winner. [Grosses r. h.] But it may not come to this — thou know'st Martelli ! he hath found some fairy wand, and smiles on heaps of what I want ; 'tis said he hath a giving mind — I'll seek hhn out, and if he keep it now, I will not b^ulk his I THE MINERALI. 15 humor, so he'll but let me owe him gold. I care not though I pay the sum ten thousand times in tl>anks. Murco. I will with thoe. Ant. Good — thy hand ! \^Entcr PiETuo, 2 E. L. H.] Suppose he says, he wants it — so do we — he's one — we two I therefore, hy right, 'tis ours, for we've a double claim. Marco. By the martyrs ! thou art right. Fie. I never heard such lo^^ic as that before. Ant. What the devil do you want here ! Vie. I never heard such a remarkably unpleasant voice. Ant. Marco, this fool has overheard us. Pic. Overheard ! no, but 1 rather overlooked you. Marco. Do you know us \ PieJ No. upon my life ; I never saw you before. Ant. What in the fiend's name, do you want herel Vie. My young lady sent me. Marco. Your young lady sent you 1 Pie. 1 beg pardon. I said that before. Ant. And what were you sent for! Pie. I'll tell you in confidence. ICrosses to c.'j I often ccme, but I never mentioned it before. Ant. [Har.sIUt/.] Go on ! Pie. [Goinffi I'm going. [Cresses to u. h.] Good byel Ant. [Slops him.] Wliithernowl Pie. I thought you told me to go on. Ant. [Sarcasticalli/ ] Aye, with your confidence. Pie. [Aside ] It was never so misplaced before. [Aloud.] Well, I often come here to seek for one of those wild, unchristian-like, cut- throats of gold seekers. Ant. (r. h.) Then you're in luck. Pic. (c.) I'm glad you mention it, for I didn't think so before. Marco. Yes, you are in rare luck — you came to seek one, did you? Pie Yes. I told you so before. Avt. I remember it — your compliments, too ; now my good fellow, here are two of tfee cut-throats at your service. Marco. [Bowing.] At your service ! Pie. Why the devil didn't you say so before, 1 wouldn't have abused you (to your faces) for the world. Marco. [Snatches letter from Pietro ] To Martelli ' [Readt.'] Let's see. a prayer for some of the proceeds of his good fortune, for instant want, signed by the young Francisco. A7it. [To Pietro.] Good! — doubtless you can find Martelli 1 Pic. Oh I yes ; I've often seen him before. Ant. [Sissiiing to Mai'.co.] The ways are dangerous here ; we'll guide you safe. Come, friend ! on to Martelli ! [Marco and Antonio seize Pietro, and push hun forward. Pie. Wouldn't you like to go before ! [PiEiRo endeavors to turn hack, they draw their daggers — he retreat* from them. Pie. I never saw such guiding as this before. 16 THE MINERALI. Marco. On — on ! l^Exit PiETRo, followed hy Antonio and Marco, e. h. Hurried Music. Scene II. — Same as Acl I, Scene I. Plaintive Music. Eiilcr Francisco, down plaf/orm, 2 e. l. h. — Appears dejected. Fran. So all hope is past I To-morrow the bridal day, and I have scarce a tithe of the sum promised. I have learnt in the last year, Mar- telli spoke tlie truth of our branded race. Still I have toiled, and toiled, but here ends all. There must I meet Leila, and I fear for ever — bid her farewell for ever ! She comes — now for calmness 1 Enter Leii,.*. from cottage, r. h. She rushes eagerly down to Francisco — fixes her eyes upon his face — he takes her hand, and is about to speak — she motions him to he silent. Lei. No, no, Francisco. I would not, could not, hear thee now ! I can read all — one word will do ; its characters are on thy face, " de- spair." [Franclsco clasps her in his arms, and, after a strmrsie, .speaks. Fran. Yes, Leila, yes, you are right ; there's nothing left but that. Lei. [Endcaoonng to cheer Ai//i.] Come, come, Francisco ! Courage, courage ! Fran. Courage, Leila, courage! Ha, ha, ha! 1 have toiled early and late — risen with the sun — v^atched the dimming stars — strained heart and soul — ventured limb and life — and all for tiiis — for this! Lei. Nay, nay, Francisco ; bear up for Leila's sake. Is there no. hope'! Fran. None, none — with gold alone dare I claim thee, Leila. I have not yet one fourth the sum — the stipulation named. 1 pledged my word — ay, my word, to see thee not, unless with right to wed thee ; - outcast as I am, I am bound by that. [Crosses to r. h Lei. Nor could I love thee, did thou forfeit honor. [Aside.] 'Tis a desperate chance, but must be tried. Francisco, fearing thy wild daring, I wrung from thee a pledge ne'er to venture to the summit of yonder dizzy steep. Fran. [Eagerly.'] I had forgot. Lei. Thou hast broke thy vow. Fran. [Reproachfully .] Leila ! Lei. Pardon, pardon me. Francisco ! I know thou hast not : fear not doubt of thy honor did prompt me to inquire. Is the path guarded with all the dangers men report, or have they but their hideous forms in the fear-stricken eyes of those whose timid hearts do seek excuses for their want of the bold daring that doth court such trials 1 Fran. Leila, say 1 may venture, and I'll twine my arms about the stei'p. and seek its summit with the desperate zeal that prompts the bounding stag, to dare tlic space yawning in frightful extent, 'twixt the threatning rock. Lei. Thou hast not answered what I wished to learn ; is the danger great, as it is said to be \ J'Van. ril not deceive thee ; those who from their childhood have been trained to court such scenes, have never ventured to essay the task. THE MINERALI. 17 Lei. Love ne'er hath prompted them. Fran. This were reproach, but that tnou Unowest my neart ; again i ask to move all doubts of thy true love, am I to venture 1 Jjci. On one condition. Yes. Fran. [Jvyou.thj.] Tiianks, Leila ! [Kissing her, crosses to l. h.] Now, farewell — farewell ! Lei. Tarry ; thou hast not heard me out. Fran. I'll swear to aught you wish. Lei. h is a simple thing I have to ask. Fran. Would it were fraught with danger, that I might further prove my love. .Lei. Forward ! Be thou my guide — we go together. FraJi. I^eila, thou dost jest. Lei. [Pointing to the sleep.] Time presses — waste it not idly. For- ward to the task. [Cros!>es to l. n. Fran. Thou art mad ! I cannot — dare not — let thee go ! I should be cool myself, not torn with fears for thee ; each eye should seek the earth, to trace even the blighted grass on the thin ledge, where only one can pass, at peril even then of liis dear life ; how can I guard with cau- tion such as this my steps, and know that thy unpractised feet arc fol- lowing in their course. Lei. Thy vow, Francisco ! Fran. Thy presence will unnerve my heart. I cannot go. Lei. I am resolved ! Despair is now my prompter, and I will listen to its dictates. I have pondered well upon this scheme — anticipated all thy arguments against my gomg, and — I am resolved. Fran. Leila I Lei. Hear me out ; did to-morrow leave me unclaimed by thee to pine alone in sorrow for thy loss, the hope of the bare chance of breath- ing the same air would give a taste of sweetness even to the life of one bereaved like me. But 'tis not so ; the suitor by my father chosen holds his claim — he has a right to do so, nor will I e'er deceive him ; therefore thy bride, or his, to-morrow night will see me. It will be heaven to share thy path if thou dost ne'er return, to lose in death the terrors of thy absence — if we fall or fail, 'twill be together. Was thou to go alone, suspense would drive me mad. Fran. I will not baulk thee, love, butcould'st thou read my heart Lei. It would not alter mine ! Gome — for love, for life ! Come — come ! [^Exeunt, l. h. Scene III. — Part of the Mountain with raised Rock, c Martei.li discovered exulting over a heap of ore. Mar. She's won ! she's won ! Ha, ha, ha I this is worth the work- ing for — my toils o'erpaid a thousand — ay, a million times. Let me glut my eyes by gazing on thee, thou purchaser of all the heart can yearn for ; here have I the source of fame, wealth, honor ! three thou- sand ducats! had the sum been named for double the amount, I could have paid it now for my bridal. How will the gold seeker laugh to claim the wealthy and beloved. Francisqo shall be my bridesman, 'twill 18 TUE MINERALI. gi'ad his heart to see me blest ; well thought, I'll seek liim out. I have not seen the daring boy of late — Heaven speed his love, as it hath smiled on mine. Enter PiETRo, u. e. r. h., running. Pie. Run. Signer Martelli, if you be a man, to thy legs and away; do as I have done, I never jolted my bones at such a break-neck pace before. Mar. Coraest thou from Francisco 1 Fie. No ; from the devil. Mar. Are you mad ! Pie. Not that I know of — but if I am, I ought to be excused; I never had so good an opportunity to run mad iiefore. ■Mar. Peace, peace ' I am in no mood for jesting. Fie. Nor I, Signor Martelli, as I'm a christian ! I have run like a pig from wind to do thee service. Coming down to seek thee with a letter from the young Francisco, 1 met two damned scoundrels plotting no good to thee [^Looks off.] Here they are ; run, signor, run, if you never ran before — I'm off. [Exit, l. h. JIar. What does the fool mean 1 no matter ; I must to the valley. [Martelm lifts up /lis pouch — begins to fix the belt and buckle it round his waist ; as he docs so he nines vp the platform, c. Antonio and Marco enter as he reaches it — Antonio beckons to Marco to retire ; he dues so at 3 E. K. H. AiU. A fair day to you, Martelli Mar. Thanks, and farewell ! [Crosses to r. h. Ant. W'hy haste you I Mar. Business of urgent moment will not let me longer tarry. What would you ! Ant. Briefly, then, Martelli, thus if is : I have lost the power I think of winning from my toil the means whereby to live ; thou hast fared better, well nigh drained the richest cradles of the mountain side ; re- port hath reached me of thy goodly heaps ; had fortune in her fickle- ness forgotten thee, and smiled upon my search, I would have freely shared with thee ; knowing this, without reluctance do I come to ask thy aid. - Mar. You are right, in your account of my good chance ; which ne'er had I pursued as 1 have done, had my own wants been prompters of the search ; the crust I crave is cheaply won ; for a cause more dear than life I've labored to amass the gold thou speak'st of Balanced against thy wants, (were it my own) 'twould be but dross in my esteem — it's only value coming from the aid 'twould give to thee ; as 'tis, sin- cerely I regret that I cannot now assist thee A7U. 'Tis ever thus, when men are borrowers; 'tis easiei- far to answer fair, than do suhstanlial good. Mar. Thou dost not knovv the stake that this must win. Aiit. Nor do I care to know it. Mar. Softly 1 Fair words are best. Ant. Fair words will neither feed nor clothe. Hark ye, Martelli, mj wants are ripe. THE MINERALI. 19 Mar I grieve they aie, but cannot serve »hee. Ant. 'Tis easier far to lie, tlian do urood deeds. Mar. Lie i We met as friends — be wise, let us part so. Ant. I scorn thy friendship, and thyself. Mar. I cannot guide thy tongue, but thou hadst better not provoke my wrath. Ant. What care I for thy wrath, or thee1 Thou art an arrant cheat, wanting plain honesty to speak the truth — thou hast the wish to serve, forsooth, but not the power, else it would pleasure thee 1 I'll do thy wish for thee — I'll ease thy mind of its regrets, and find the gold. So thou still keep the will ! Mar. Find it in Heaven's name, if you know where to seek it. Avt. Say'st thou so-] The search will be a short one^ for in thy belt it rests. Mar. What ! No, no — you jest — you would not seek to rob ] Ant. No ; I only wish to share. Mar. I've told thee once, thou canst not share. Ant. [Beckons Marco down, u. h ] I tell thee, here are two, and we will share. Mar. [To Marco.] Wilt thou stand by him in this deedl Marco. I will. Mar. Be warned — stand off — come not within my reach ! Ask for my heart, as soon I'd part with it. as with one grain of what my toil has earned. Stand off, again ! I've braved the blast — courted the storm, to find this treasure ; take the limbs I've perilled — the heart I've strained — the blood that nurtures it — but touch not that. Stand off. again I say ! Or. if ye come — come, as ye would seek to wrest the sucking panther from the source from whence it draws the parent flood, that matures its youni; growth. Off, off! Ant Now ! Marco, now ! [M.iRTE.M.i is attacked by Marco and Antonio — after a struggle, Martelli throws Antonio down, and placet his foot upon his chest — sei.-es Marco, and throws him across his knee — raises his hand, qbout to strike — pauses, and releasing them, exclaims — 2Iar. Away I and never cross me more; but while you live still thank your fate — a brave man will not murder ! \^Thcy rise — Marco seems about to no — Antonio calls him back. Ant. Fool I we have gone too far! Come, once more [^Tkcy ae/ain close with Mautelli — Marteli.i throws Marco, loho escapes after a struggle — Antonio wounds Maktei.li, who secures Antonio by the throat, and holds him. Mar. Coward ! miscreant ! v^'hom neither good nor ill can alter — whom but now I spared, and spared but to provoke — see'st thou yon cliff? Brooding on murder, did thy vile feet pass it ; for after ages it shall stand the monument of my rovenije — and shuddering peasants shall, with averted eyes, p.iss tlip tainted spot, where thv crushed car- case fe.sters in the wind. Come to thy fate ! — Come ! [Draffs Anto- nio up the prccif'ice ; after a struggle, dashes him doirn, and lanft : When ? Bar. Since yesternight. Fran. And has she not returned 1 Jiir. Ti'iou knovv'st sl;e lias not. Fran. Great Heaven ! She's lost — she's lost ! I — I have murdered her ! [Crns.^cs to r. h ] Oil I I remember now how the storm raged, and she was then unaided. It would have toin the pine from its firm hold, how could she grapple with Ha ! Perhaps even now, upon some crag she lies ! It may not be too late ! If ye be men, ioU low me ! [Goins: to c, Frani'isco rushes towards the door — Ricardo draws hi.'s dasscr, and places himself between him and it. Ric. You go not thus ! Fran. You will not stop my way. If you're not stone, you'll let me pass. Kneeling I implore you, as you prize your — yes, tiour Leila's )ife, on to the mountain with me Why stand you thus, old man 1 If yon did ever love your child, follow to the cliff! [Bartolo riiRhes mil, followed by Guests, o d., tcith Nicor-o. Bic. Thou canst not further impose. The only vengeance I can take is this — thy wretched life ! [Rushes on Francisco. Fran. This blow from any other hand would be a welcome one. Will vou brave mcl Come, then, blow for blow ! [They stru!:rgle — • Francisco gets the dagger, and forces Kicardo down.] Down ! — do • l^As he raises his hand to strike, Nicolo enters. ■ Mc. Hold ! hold ! Fran. Plead to the wind ! [Raises his hand — a murmur heard without. Bartoi-o enters, with Lkila in his arms — followed by Guests. Mar. [ Without.] Bark ! hack ! Twill follow ! Fran. She's safe ! Thank Heaven, she's safe ! Look to her ! See, she faints ! How's this, Martelli! You look ashy pale, and thy closed lips seem as they were drowning sounds of pain. Ri/:. [To Mar.] Thou art not well — let me take the maid; 3far. Thee I — Never! Thee! — Never! She's mine! — My own I Bought with my blood ! I'll never leave her more ! Maiden, a seat. So ! — She revives ! [.\NMKrTE brint^s a seat forward — Martei.li puis Leila scntly in it — Annette chafes her temple on one side.] Thou art her father 1 [Bautolo rt.Mt«/'i-.] Good — read that. Gives letter to Baktolo, who opens it. Fran. [Apart.] What do I see \ — The letter Leila lost ! Can it be 1 Mar. Know'st thou the liand ? Bar I do — my daujhter's ! ^[ar. I knew it ! All is confirmed ! Thy hand — it is thy son that a.^ks it ! Bar. Son \ Mar. Av, if there's truth in words — if the whole valley teem not with one lie — lliv son ! Ric. J thank thee for thy care, which hath been shown to my affi- anced bride. 2 26 THE MINERAL! Mar. Thine ! Ric. Even so. Mar. Slie hath tivsught another mate — ox\o v t i fo* yerrr and years, in feverish doubt, hath loved her ! There — see there— to me those Unes were written. Fran. [Apart.'\ I could have borne auijht but this ! Nic. [Luvkina: at letter'] 'J'o thee ! Thou errcst. Mar. I do not err. Years have passed since we have met before, old man. But once before, as now, with ebbing life, whose tide was nurtured by my arm, I gave to thee thy child. Bar. You? ' Mar Ay. Dost thou not remember when the swelling stream in triumph bore her in its ruffled breast, a youth, noting your agony and vain regrets, risked his own life to save all that did make thine worth the keeping 1 Bar. I do ; he would not stay for thanks. If thou art he Mar. I am — and now, as then, do not wish to hear acknowledg- ments for such a deed. Then — then it was I first began to love. I loved in secret.. In silence would my passion have expired, but for that precious note. Too late I came to see her e'er she was betrothed, yet heard with rapture that I was her choice — her father stipulating only one condition. It was — myself, the Mineralo, should pay down three thousand ducats, as her portion. I iiave them — I've bled to bring it safe — 'tis here — iind now I claim my bride. Ric. It was not you Bartolo meant. 3Iar. Not me ! fiend I But see I She — she shall speak, and give the lie to thee, thou wretched cheat ! Leila ! Lei. \^Rising.'] Has the storm cea.?ed howling 1 How it chilled my keart ! Ha 1 who's there ! My father I [•See.? Ricardo.] He, too ] Alas! who hath waked me from a dream of quiet for a change like this l Fran. Leila ! Lei. Tliat voice ! Francisco I Safe — safe ! Fran. Mv own — my constant — my beloved ! \^Embrace Mar. Francisco here and known ! Speak ! my blood is gushing te my heart, and clogging the close veins — speak ! The Mineralo was — Bar. Francisco I Mar. \^Fanitly.'\ Help — help! [The Guests, and among them, Fran- cisco, cow c forward to sii/ipor/ him — he motions Francisco atcay.^ No, no — it may be wrong— I feel it is. But thy hand — touch that — nevei while I live— blighted by thee — by one I've nurtured F'rmi.. Martelli, hear me Mar. That voice ! Francisco's voice ! I never wished its tones were hushed till now. F'rnn. \^ hat have I done. Martelli? Mar. What done? what done? waked me from the dream that tied my wounded heart to earth. Midst scorn I hDped and smiled, and now, when all seemed happiness, thy tongue alone has come to blight me, Fran. Thou art wrong, Martelli — I am, like thee, rejected. Mar. How ! rejected, say'st thou ? THE MINERALI. 27 Bar. Upon most stronp compulsion, and on condition, did I give my pledge — that unfulfilled, the maiden ne'er shall wed one of his race. Mar. Ha, ha, ha I he cannot he my rival, then. Come, Francisco — come to my heart. [Endeavors to move toicards Fr.\ncisco, hut falls from weakness. Fran. iMartelli, rouse thee I Mar. Boy, 'tis vain — I had-forgotten life is ebhing fast. hci. Thou hast lost it in preserving mine ! Mar. No, maiden, no hci. Alas, ihou hast! I can but offer thee my poor but earnest thanks, and add my deep and fervent prayers for thy good. Mar. Thy hand — there's bliss in seeing thee — in knowing I have saved and served thee. Signor, thou wilt not wed thy daughter where her heart can never give its love. Bar. Unless he have the right to claim her, never shall he call her bride. Mar. [To Fr.\n.] Why didst thou hide thy state from me, it was no( well. Fran. Alas ! I own 'twas not. Jilar. I had, thou knowcst, grown rich with search — had you but begtrcd a loan, I should have guessed Fran. I sent, and thouglit thou hadst refused me Mar. Refused thee 1 No, hoy, no — thou should'st have had it all, had I but known — but now 'tis worse than vain to speak of that. Thy message never reached me. Hold — support me — there — there — the belt — 'tis there — 'twill yield the sum, even were it doubled. — Leila, thine hand — Francisco, thine — old man — quick, quick — a word — a look — let me but hear that she is his. Bar, She is. Mar. Ha, ha, ha! I did not toil — I do not lie in vain. Forgive my wrath. Francisco. Fran. All — all. Thy kindness rushes to my heart, and chokes my utterance Mar. Think of it when I am gone. The steep — thou knowest it — where first I met thee, Leila — let me rest there. Heaven bless ye both I Francisco ! I have given thee thy bride — my life 1 [Dies, Disposition of the Characters at the Fall of the Curtain: Guests. Guests NicoLO. Bartolo. RiCARDo. Leila. Mar.telli. Francisco. Pif.tro. THE END. r BINDER Dcuse, N. Y. ckton, Calif. 3 1205 02089 3515 UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL V.^.^.'l.^L'ifl^i'iS A A 001 423 325 8 SI THE LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA Santa Barbara i mi) STACK COLLECTION THIS BOOK IS DUE ON THE LAST DATE STAMPED BELOW.