954
S4G4
rob
UC-NRLF
oo
9
BOBEB T M AC A L 11 K.
A SEEIO-COMIC DRAMA, IN TWO ACTS.
BY CHARLES BELBY,
1) rani at. is
^roduced at the Victoria, T7ea(re, Dec.
Mtlivfurmrr) Mr. Tilbury.
NT (an ink- , Mr. Griffith.
KOHKKT MACAIRE inndfr the
::,,ndi Mr. H. Wallack.
.:V (uiul T
me of Bertraad] Mr. Vale.
: B (tin- U'loptr.l .-on Of ...
Dumout) ... Mr. F. ^
Wo. 325. Dicks' Standard Plays.
PlERRK
\NT
LOUIS
FRANCOIS
i 11 '-, 1 /'
;\ '',
-V, 1 '- I /: lI 1 1 , m ;f
Bfr.Collett
MARIE ..................... ftf-JJ
CLEMENTINE ............ ( TOM.
1' Amos, Itinerant M ko., &c.
o
O O S T? TJ
is? BSKffita^a SSS^M; aassMassa boote - habby
DCMONT. -Modern black coat, black breeches, white waistcoat, white cotton stockings.
EHHi:nii..-Dove-colonred oM man-, rait, flowered waistcoat, wliito stockings, drab bearer hat
PiERRz.-Fronch blue frock smock, trwolooMd belt, white trousers, blue night-cap.
WAITERS IHD PZASABTS. CoM and breeches,
hate .-Blue uniform, facadwith white, cross belt,, swords, carbines, au d cocked
MUSICIANS. .Shnbhv French coat and hat.
CLBMESTIKE. White muslin dresa aad hat.
nail check, brown cotton jacket with
:i in cap, covered with a dark blue and
thwk shoes.
STAGE DIRECTIONS.
: "r R - ra T" D - R ^^ in pftlft ' R - D - B 'W 1 >
r '" U PP" Entrance; M. D. Jfiddl* Door; L. U. E.
Entrance; L. S. E. Left Second Entrance; p S. Prompt
RELATIVE POSZTIOHS.-R. means Bj7it| L. 1^ ; 0. Centre; R. C. Bight of Centre; L. 0. L*/ of
B- BO. C. LO.
V r?w Bcad^ is sitpposed to b on (?w Sta^c, facinj the ^udio
ROBERT MACAIRE.
ACT I.
8CENX. TT* Etitrior of an Aulergt-a I
ratiin'j.uith gain in the centre, aero ss the Stag e
over the gates a sign board, on which is painted
" Auberg. on the 2 and 3 >
the house, ar the door,
on ir/i.Y/i is )"i/nfd " Ici on Tend la Bonm
.n Logement a P
a door le+diny to a
cellar a table and bencJie* under a tree, u.. E.
H.- ,e Mflh
road is s<*n in the back-ground, tJ whole ertento/
ra Brtdye, Plat/orme,e\-.
s to lively Muetc.
i.
ncfriy
ttle* o
the took,
s has a basket with some bottle* of vine he
* k from one of them, and is drinking as
' >-rs from the ho use.
Pierre. Hollo 1 hollo I what are you about
ling.
Y. Nothing 1 Do you think I did not fee
Lou. Well, if yon did, I'm mire I -
j.) Come, come, fir, hold your
tongue don't try to excommunicate yourself;
I gee von take this bottle out of the basket
in this way f (Toiiny it out.) Didn't yon pull out
the c>: .\ and then didn't you put it to
vonr mouth in this way? (ToJciny a lony draught.)
I'm ashamed of yon ; see, (Turniny doicn the bottle.)
youV oh, yon thief! I'll tell master
to stop it out of your wages. Now. away with von
nil into tin- housf, and - t i vrrything ready before
1 and his daughter arrive; don't stand
h your months open, and your
in your p< >. [Exeunt vaiters
into house.'] Idle rase.. ; on the table,
R. H. ; i h* picks outfrom a
plateful, which has been placed there by the waiters.)
thiuk of no-' .ting and drinking.
(Taking a cake from another plate.) Always stealing
things that don't belong to them, and feasting at
master's expense.
-nd CHARLES from the house.
(Pierre jumps up from the table, puts the cake and
<>dbet, and pretends to be wry
busy, arranging the cloth, dishes, Ac.)
Dum. Well, Pierre, how eo on onr preparations
for the wedding fete ? I see you ore all in a
buttle.
e. Y. ?, sir, I'm oVjijn ly.
Cha. Oh, no, you are mistaken, I'm q
(JSRah
e. Are you ? ' wuy
of showing your mirth. Now, master, doesn't Mr.
Ch.irles look v. ry unhappy Y
liodoes; but I attributo liis a ri<-
to the importance of the engagement he is about to*
(. iiit met.
Pierre. Ah, true matrimony IH a -
thing, and require* a deal of CO'TI i man
ought to be ture of what he is alout for my part
.
Dum. Yon are gossiping here when yon ought to
< your work.
Pierre. You are right Fte a great deal to do I
ivtime hear;
I'll go and blow n Louis!
Jacques! Francois I I'm c
H into house,
Dum. Yon see, Charles, I am not t
who haa perceived your n ntim:
will soon be here; yon im; o you look
to miseraMo on this joyful occn
Cha. Ah, sir, wh- ; ail knows the
ecret you have revealed to me, will he then con-
sent to my marriage with hix
Dum. Hope for the best; lie is too good ai:dl:ind
a man to be the slave of prejudice ; he will
find a better sou- it
anxious for the happiness of kis daughter to b< :m
obstacle to your un
Cha. Oh, that I co
(Noise of a Carriage without, n. H.)
Dum. Hark I Germcuil and Clement in>-
i Hollo I Pierre ! Louis I Francois !
quick !
:.<>UIS, and WAITERS enter from
House, go off, B. H., through Gales, and return.
vith bundles, band-boxes, Jkc.
Cha. A few moments will decide my fate.
Enter GERMEUIL and CLKMHXTIXE, R. H.
Germcuil aduauces to the front sJuiices hands with
at Cha' >s go up to Clementine, tc/io re-
?iim at the bn*k Pierre runs about
I with bundles and band boxes, which he leU
fall, &c.
Gcr. Welcome, old friend yon didn't oxp-ct nv
so soon, I daresay but, you know, I'm ;
old fool I like to settle thinjrs off.Land
Clementine, my love, when you have lini-ln-d th-
disembarlanent of your baud-boxes, pc-rhn]ip you
will notice your future father-in-law ?
ROBERT MAOAIRE.
'Clem. With pleasure. How do you do, sir ?
(Shaking hands with Dumor.t.)
Ger. What are you about there, Mr. Charles
are you waiting for permission to kiss your wife ?
Cha. (Coming down, L. H.) Mr. Germeuil, the
title of Clementine's husband is the most precious
to which my heart aspires but honour impera-
tively forbids I should accept of it before you have
had an understanding with my father. You will
then decide, if you think me still worthy to pos-
sess the hand of your daughter
Ger. (Astonished.) What does this mean ?
Dum. I will inform you, while Charles assists
Clementine to arrange her band-boxes.
Clein. That is to say, I must not hear your con-
versation.
Dum. Go, my love, yon shall soon know all.
'Clem. Come, Charles, give me your arm. Papa,
don't let Mr. Duniont detain you long. Do you
know, Charles, I've such a beautiful new lace dress,
and such a love of a bonnet.
[Ert't Charles and Clementine into the house.
Ger. Now, friend Dumont, we are alone, what is
this secret to which Charles seemed to attach so
much importance ?
Dam. One on which his happiness or misery de-
pends. The disclosure I am about to make will de-
cide kis fate.
Ger. You alarm me. Explain.
Dum. Learn, then, my friend, that Charles is
not my son !
Ger. What say you not your son ?
Dum. Nor any relation. Listen. Between
eighteen and nineteen years ago, seeing a crowd
collected round the door of an inn, a few miles on
{jhc road to Grenoble, I inquired the cause, and
'fcund that a poor woman had left a new-born in-
fant in the charge of the innkeeper, and had not
returned to claim it. I looked upon the unhappy
child (which everybody repulsed) and, o'ercome
with pity for its helplessness, determined to adopt
'Ger. 'Twas kind 'twas noble 1
Dum. From the report of some soldiers, who
irere in pursuit of the mother, I learned that she
had been imprisoned at Grenoble (no doubt for
eo me bad action), but had found means to elude
the vigilance of her keepers, and escape.
Ger. What became of her?
Dum. I know not her retreat was never dia.
covered.
Ger. And you had no trace no clue ?
Dum. None. I brought up Charles as my own
child and have never regretted an act of charity,
by which I have gained the best of sons, and per-
haps rescued a fellow-creature from crime and
./nisery,
Ger. Does any one know this secret ?
J)um. No one but yourself.
-Ger. 'Tis well give me your hand.
Dum. What 't you consent, then, to Charles's
happiness ?
Ger. He is still the son of ray old friend. What !
ehall I punish an unfortunate youth for the faults
of his mother ? Shall I make his birth a crime ?
No ! Charles is virtuous and honest ; and I value
such qualities too much to refuse to acknowledge
and esteem their possessor, be his parents ever so
vile or wort )
Dum. Generous man! I never doubted the good-
ness of your heart ; but this last act of kindness.
Pshaw, it has brought the tears into my eyes.
Enter CLEMENTINE and CHARLES from, thi
House.
Clem. All is safe, father-in-law everything is in
order my bonnets have not been crushed or my
dresses tumbled, have they, Charles ? k
Ger. (To Charles.) Well, young gentleman, what
say you now ?
Cha. Say, sir?
Ger. Yes, sir will you kiss your wife ?
Cha. Is it possible ? Am I to be so happy ?
Ger. To be sure. Kiss your wife, sir, or I'll take
her away from you.
Cha. Clementine ! (Embracing her.) Oh, sir, my
gratitude shall equal my happiness.
Ger. (Shaking him by the hand.) Say no more;
you are a good lad, and I am proud to call you my
son.
Dum. Now, then, let us think of our little fete.
Charles, go ask your friends, and bring them hero
immediately.
Clem. For what?
Ger. To celebrate your marriage.
Ger. Indeed! then we had better retire and
arrange our dresses, Clementine. (To Charles.) I
wish your wife and father-in-law to do you
honour.
Clem. Don't be absent long, Charles.
Cha. I'll return immediately, dear Clementine.
fEarit through gates, B. H.
Ger. Come, old friend, show me to my chamber.
Clementine, my love, this is the happiest day I
have known for twenty years. Your old father
will dance at your wedding as nimbly as he did at
his own La, la, la.
[Singing and daiicing Dumont, Ger-
?neui'l,and Clemantine exit into house.
(REDMOND and BERTRAND appear
at the extremity of the road; they cross
(he Bridge, Platforms, &c. Redmond
walks boldly, and Bertrand fearful* ;,.
stopping every second or third *.'
look round. Finding Bertrand dQ,.<
not keep up with him, Redmond im-
patiently beckons him forward, and,
when he is within his reach, sei:.v
by the collar and shakes him. J>V//
stop, look at the house Bertrand tries
to return back .Redmond holds him
and insists on his going forward.
They enter through the gates their
H are extremely shabby and
covered with dust. Redmond has a
black handkerchief tied over his left
eye. Bertrand carries a bundle at tin-
end of a stick.)
Red. Come on, comrade, put your best leg fore-
most. What are you afraid or ? We are out of
danger now, and shall soon reach the frontier.
Ber. The sooner the better. Oh, my poor
nerves! they've had St. Vitns's Dance ever since we
escaped from the prison. Those devils of gen-
darmes cover all the country before, behind, and
right and loft, and everywhere. Oh, my poor
nerves !
Red. Bah! You are frightened at your own
shadow, and tremble like a woman. Why the
deuce don't you learn to bo bold and impudent'?
Ber. Because I can't I always teas nervous, and
I can't help being afraid. Oh, I wish I had half
your impudence ! You are afraid of nothing ; yon
swagger and bounce, and hold up your head as if
ROBERT MAOAIRE.
yon were the most honest and upright man in the
world.
Red. Well, isn't my assurance to be commended ?
Doesn't it pet us out of all our scrapes and dan-
gers ? What's the use of being a thief if you
haven't the impudence of the devil, and the man-
ners and appearance of a gentleman ;
(Taking nu#, and ueing handkerchief.)
Ber. Ah, that's all very well but I don't feel
comfortable those confounded gendarmes will be
sure to catch us, I know they will.
Bed. Pshaw 1 we have nothing to fear.
Ber. Haven't we, though ?
Red. This bandage secures me from being recopr-
nised and jour pretending to be silly, prevents you
from being suspected besides, haven't we our
passports ?
Ber. Yes, forged ones. I tremble like a steam-
boat whenever we are obliged to show them. Oh,
my poor nerves I Those gendarmes always examine
us with an attention that sadly troubles a dirty
conscience. I can't bear them the sight of one of
cocked hats is enough to set my poor nerves
all on the dance, and make me sink into my boots
with fear.
Red. Well, well, we shall soon be beyond their
reach ; but a few leagues further, and we shall bo
ill I'irdm
Ber. I wish we were there now we shall never
we are out of danger.
Red. This is the u of; we will stop
here awhile, and refresh.
No, no, no ! let us go on 'tis too near the
road. Who knows but some gendarmes may be
tli. re. Let us go on.
Vo! I won't stir till I've
a bottle of wine.
lie tritJi his stick.) Hollo! waiter 1
very body 1
Oh, my poor nerves! We shall be sure to
i get into a scrape t Oh, curse your impudence !
Do as I do, sir, make the people believe yon
are silly.
Ber. That won't be very difficult, if I do as you
,- poor nerves ! (Striking the table with
his stick in imitation of Redmond, and pretending to
be *ill>j.) Hollo! hollo! hollo! waiter! house!
landlord! landlady! chambermaid! housemaid!
barmaid ! any maid ! hollo !
llRB/rom Houee.
Pierre. Who calls? Hollo! (Seeing them.)
ntloinen?
Red. Brinr us some refreshment.
Pierre. (Sfaring a'
j fnuff, and fiourithing handkerchief.)
Brini; ns IK icnt.
:<] jrou/f/rom .Redmond's box, and pull-
in-j out a fumll torn handkerchief, which he
flourishes in imitation.) Yes, bring us some refresh-
ment, and something to eat!
Pier,- something to eat I
Yes bring us some peck.
'e. Peck I what doth the gentleman mean,
sir?
(To Iiedmond.)
Red. My noble friend means refreshment. Peck
fashionable word made use of in the hicrh
y we have been accustomed to associate
with.
(Pulling up hie collar and ncaggering.)
Pierre. Indeed! (Aside.) They are a pair of
beauties for high society. (Aloud.) What will yoa
take, gentlemen ?
Red. What have yon in the house P
Pierre. Everything.
Red. Then bring us
Ber. Some bread and cheese.
Pierre. Bread and cheese.
Ber. Yes, and an ingun.
Red. (flourishing his aticfc.) Don't yon hear,,
fellow, some bread and cheese, an in gun, for my
noble friend ; the latter is a vegetable I never
patronize, for the ladies have an objection to it.
Pierre. Beg pardon, but we are very busy within,.
Preparing for a wedding ; so, if you' ve no objection,.
'11 serve your refreshment under that tree ; you'll
be very comfortable, and enjoy the fresh air.
Ber. So we can and it won't do ns any harm,,
for it's a long time since we have tasted it.
(.Redmond strikes him on the legs with
his stick, and then crosses, Nourishing
it to Pierre', tcho loofca astonished.
Bertrand seats himself at table.)
Rid. What the devil are you staring at ? Bring'
the refreshment.
Pierre, Directly, sir. (Aside.) These are the
queerest customers we've had for a long time.
1 into honfi.
Red. (Looking round.) I see the place isarnin,'- d
for a fete: so much the better 'twill enliv.
I'm very fond of marriages.
Ber. (At the table.) Then why don't you got
married?
.Red. I am married.
Ber. Indeed! why yon never told me that.
(Coming dovn.) Where Is your u
Red. I don't know; 'tis eights -n or nineteen
years since I left her, to avoid the pursuit of cer-
tain gentlemen with cocked hats and long swords.
Ber. Ah I gendarmes. Don't yon know what
Red. Eh? (Lost for a moment in thought.) No, I
never inquired.
PIERRE Enters removes the apples and cofces then
returns icith the bread and cheese and a bottle of
vine look* at Bert rand's bundle, which he has
left on the table takes it up with the tops of his
finger and thumb, and puts it on the ground.
Ber. Perhaps she has made her way in the world
in the same manner as yourself, by involuntary
contributions.
Red. No, I think not ; she was one of those per.
sons who had, what prejudiced people would call,
good principles and honesty.
Ber. Ah, those are things we know nothing
about.
Red. Scrupulous on the points of virtue and re-
spectability.
Per. I never heard of snch nonsense.
JRed. Preferring hard work and misery to em
ploying our little methods of making mon^y; in
fact she was a poor, weak-minded, moral, in-
dustrions, virtuous individual.
Ber. My dear friend, what bad company you mnt
have been in to meet with such \ woman. Where
could you have picked her up ?
Pierre. (Coming behind Bertrand, and slapping
him on the shoulder.) Your peck is ready, sir.
Ber (Starting across in great alarm, to L. H.) Ehr*
oh, Lord ! I'm not the man !
Pierre. What's the matter, sir ?
Ber. Devil tako him how he frightened at
ROBERT MACAIRE.
Oh, my poor nerve*;! I thought it was a
gendarme.
Red. (Aside.) You fool, you'll ruin us.
(Kicks him, then goes up, flourishing
his s*ick he seats himself at the table,
takes o/ his hat, places it an the top of
his stick it goes through tlie croic'n
.Rustic music is heard icithout Red-
mond takes a comb /rom his pocket,
and arranges his hair and whiskers.)
Pierre. (Looking out.) Ah, here they come !
(Bertrand, alarmed, tries to rise Redmond prevents
him.) Here's Mr. Charles and the villagers. ( Calling
at house.) Mr. Germeuil ! master ! Miss Clemen-
tine! make haste here is Mr. Charles and his
friends. (Music.)
Enter CHARLES and villagers through gates
DUMONT, GERMEUIL, and CLEMENTINE
from house.
Dum. Welcome, welcome, friends you see we
expected you. Come into the house you'll find
plenty to eat and drink, and then we'll finish the
fete with a dance. Come, friends.
Cha. Stay, stay ! a poor woman has fallen down
in the road there ; come, some of yon, and help me
to assist her. (JJ <<>-.)
[Exeunt Charles, 1'
Ger. Poor creature! how wretched and miser-
able she seems.
(Charles, Pierre, and villagers bring on
Marie, and place her in a chair.)
Clem. Let me assist her.
Dum. Pierre, some wine some wine
(They give 3farie -urine she slou'ly re-
covers, and l>o/:s round jRcdmond,
tcho has mingled with the villagers.
on seeing her face, start?, tn
trand by the arm, and goes ojfwith
him, 3 E. E. H.)
Cha. How do you feel now ?
Mar. Better much better ; thanks, kind friends,
thanks your assistance was v ,1, for I
have not tasted food since yesterday morning.
Ckm. Poor creature !
Dum. You are not of this country ?
3far. No, sir.
Du7n. You have come from some distance ?
Mar. Yes, sir. from Italy; I am going to Mount
m to seek employment.
Dum. You have friends or family there ?
Jllar. Alas, I have now no family ; I have no
fr;.-nds either for I am poor aud miserable. Yet
1 1 once had children husband parents, and
friends. I was once affluent and happy ; but mis-
fortune* withering breath has blown upon me,
and I am left a poor, lone woman worn down
with sorrow, want, and sickness, without a roof to
shelter me, or the means of buying bread.
Gor. This poor woman interests me.
Pierre. (Crying.) And me too.
Mar. (Rising.) Pardon me, kind friends. I per-
ceive my presence thiows a damp on your ple;i-
Biires. 'I am better now; I will continue my
journey.
Ger. No, no, impossible ; in your weak state
'twould be dangerous you shall sleep here to-
nighl ; tbat LJ if niy friend Dnmont has no objec-
tion.
Dum. Objection! How could you think of such
a thing ? You shall stay, my good woman, aud
have a comfortable supper, and breakfast too.
Pierre, take her in, and see that she wants for
nothing,
Mar. Oh, kind gentlemen, may Heaven reward
you.
[Ea-it into house with Pierre.
Dum. Now, kind friends, follow me. Let us
attack the eatables and drinkables.
[E-t'eunt Dumont, Clementine, Ger-
meuil, Charles, and villagers, into the
house.
Enter REDMOND and BERTRAND, 3 E. R. H.
Redmond looks into the house, seems thoughtful
and uneasy tafces th stage several times with hur-
ried steps.
Ber. Hollo ! what's the matter with you ? What
do yon go through all those revolutions for ?
(Imitating.)
Red, Nothing no matter never mind.
Ber. But I do mind ; I say, you are not pretend-
ing to be silly, are you ?
Red. Bah! (To himself, half aside.) No, no, im-
possibleit cannot be she could not no, no
yes. I should like to be sure.
Ber. So should I.
Red. (Turning) Of what ?
Ber. That the gendarmes are not following us.
Red. Fool! someone is coming ; sit down.
(Forces Bertrand to sit down.)
Ber. Oh, my poor nerves !
J5ntr GERMEUIL and DUMONT from the house.
Ger. Now, friend Dnmont, if you can spare a
moment from your friends, let us talk over a little
business I want to settle everything off-hand
Now, in the first place, I intend to give Charles
twelve thousand francs as Clementine s wedding-
portion.
Red. (Aside.) Twelve thousand francs ! that's a
pretty sum.
Ber. (Aside.) Very tidy.
Dum. Very liberal indeed. I'll give up my house
to Charles during my life, and settle all I am
worth upon him at my death.
Ger. Very well your hand the affair is settled.
Now I wish you would take charge of the twelve
thousand francs for Charles ; here they are, in
this pocket-book, in good bank-notes.
(Opening book.)
Red. (Aside to Bertrand.) Do you hear?
Ber. Yes, and see too.
Dum. No, no, yon had better keep them, and
present them to him yourself to-morrow.
Ger. Nay, I'd rather you took charge of them
this confounded book is troublesome to me; I'm
afraid of losing it.
Red. (Aside.) We'll take care of it for him.
Ber. (Aside.) Certainly, it would be no trouble
Ger. Nay, nay, I wish to sret rid of it ; oblige
me ?
Red. (Aside.) Do you I'll oblige you presently
you shan't be troubled with tt much longer.
Entr PIERRE from the house.
Pierre. Master, will you give me <*ie bunch of
duplicate keys I want to get the bedrooms ready.
(Dumont gives a bunch of keys.) Where do you mean
to put Mr. Germeuil ?
ROBERT
Dttm In No. 13 that's the best room in the
.
Pierre. And the poor woman where shall she
Bleep?
Duro. You may put her into No. 12.
Pierre. Very well. Bt-tr pardon, gentlemen, yon'd
better como in, or you'll not get a morsel of the
goo-epi..
Dum. Come, friend Gcrmeuil, now you're flitlled
your business, como in.
Ger. I'll follow you in a few minutes I wish'd
to speak with that poor woman; Will you request
her to coine t
Duwi. Certainly don't let her detain you long.
J?dL (To JDertrand.) Follow me, and hold your
tongue.
(T)*y steal across t)u) ttage on tip -toe,
and go into the koM.)
filer. Yea, the young folks will want an honest,
trustworthy person. I'll see m will
suit them the seems a steady, mHdlfcftgpd.
sensible person. I'll question i.
Enter MARIE from Turn*.
Come here, my good woman, I wish to ay a word
loyou.
Mar. I am at your orders, fir.
What is your name?
Mar. Marie.
Grr. . iT your manners and language,
that you WIMP not :il\\.ijs in the forlorn c
you r. -lay I ask your history.
Mar. Ah, Bar, spare me the recital! do not
ry ly making me recn
43 I hare endeavoured to loao
*re*s yen mine is not an
idle i n have been mam
Mar. Ala
:r husband Hrine?
(\xeeping) deserted
5 apro
ivo had a family ?
Mar. I had a eon but I (tolling) I lost him,
fir -and have never kuown a moment's happiness
Go*. Come, come, be consoled heaven may tend
you some n
Alt, sir, my sorrows arc irreparable.
y may be alleviated by honour-
able conduct, and the esteem of good and
(}\'trj**9') AUn!
Ger. II y words appear to distress you. Can you
be pruilty.
Ma;-. (Ifiiaiy.) Guilty oh, no, no ! think not eo,
I implore you ; I am innocent; I call heaven to
witness that I am.
Gr. (vi.sfonus/Kxl at her vehemence.) Innocent!
What would you say ? Do yon mean that you have
been accused unjustly ?
Mcr. (EmbarraW.) Sir?
Gtr. Explain you
Mar. Excuse me, sir, I cannot.
) not as an alms, but as a
p lodge of the sincere interest I take in your wel-
Mar. I obey, sir (taking pnrte.) I will see you
to-morrow and if I have strength of mind sulliciVnt
I you the melam of my uiU
fortunes.
[Ea-it into house.
Ger. Poor creatnrej she has deeply i-it-
mo, and I feel 'twould bo an act of real charity to
(H* is about to enter the house, merit
'l;nond
to him with gr<-
makes way / passes,
steals his pocket-handkerchief.)
Red. Yonr most obedient. A very respectable
old gentleman, ...;ml/;ivc/iiV/'-)
I wish be would wear silk
though cotton ones are uot north taking ex-
cept for amusement, or to keep one's nan i in.
(i'Htlin'J U :
.Ber. (Picking Redmond's Pocket.) I don't mind
cotton ones. Well, now wo arc alone, p
y.iu'll hnvo the kid -nduct.
what do you ; i '? Is it your
intention to hit
Red. It is.
Ber. Oh, you fool your confounded impudence
will be our ruin we shall sure to be discovered.
Oh, my poor nerves.
i courage to second mo
inapt! rise?
.V perilous ouu-rprise : that's as it may
happen. My courage i so sbaky, I cau't answer
for it.
NVTiat say you to appropriating to ourselves
the twelve thousand francs ?
>h, oh, I sec you want to keep yonr hand
in. I don't care, provided thene is no danger.
Red. You saw the bunch of duplicate keys for
all the rooms in the inn ?
Yes.
Red. That of Mr. Germeuil's chamber ought to
be there.
Ber. Certainly.
Red. We must get possession of it.
Ber. Well, what then ?
Red. We will let ourselves into his room while
he is asleep, and the twelve thousand francs will be
ours. (Giving him a blow on the stomach.) That's
the way to do it.
Ber. Is it. I wish you'd keep your hands to
yourself you've hit me in the wind. But I say.
ROBERT MACAIRE.
snppose now, by accident, he should happen to be
awake, thcre'd be a pretty kettle of fish he'd
alarm the house we should be taken, and, oh,
lord, iny poor nerves ! don't let us think of it.
Red. Bah ! you are always afraid I'll take care
we arc not discovered. Hush! here comes the
waiter I mnst get the bunch of keys. Mind what
you are about be ready to assist me.
Enter PIERRE from House.
Red. Hollo, waiter 1 will our room soon be
Teady ?
Ber. Ah! will our room soon be ready, Mr.
Waiter ?
Pierre. Do not be impatient, gentlemen it's
^ery early yet you can't want to go to bed
there's going to be a dance and all sorts of fun out
here presently. I can't attend to you for some
time. (Going to cellar door, and putting a
key into the loci:.)
Red. (To Bertrand.) Engage him in conversation
for a minute or two.
Ber. I will. I say, Mr. Waiter, what are you
doing there ?
Pierre. Eh? (Turning round.) Why I am pning
into the cellar to fill this basket with wine for the
guests.
Ber. Fill that basket with wine won't it run
out?
Pierre. (Aside.) Ha, ha, ha ! this fellow is silly <
I'll have a game with him. (Aloud.) Oh, no, it
won't don't you see (Showing the bosket) the
bottom is water-proof ?
(As lie turns to show the basket to Ber-
trand, Redmond takes the key ottt of
the door.)
Ber. Ah, dear me so it is how wonderful !
Pierre. (Aside.) Ha, ha, ha! he's the softest
chap I over met with I'll make him believe the
moon is made of green cheese presently. (Going
io door.) Hollo, the key is gone! Who the devil
has taken it ?
Red. What's the matter, young man ?
Pierre. I've lost a key.
Red. Indeed ! has anybody stolen it ?
Pierre. Stolen it ! nonsense there are no thieves
here.
Ber. (Aside.) Arn't there, though ?
Red. (Kicking him.) Be quiet, you fool. (Aloud.)
I should hope not, young man for I make it a rule
never to stop in any place where a robbery has
been committed ; and if you think you have thieves
about the premises I shall go.
Ber. So shall I.
Pierre. Oh, no, sir, don't be alarmed, I shall
find the key presently I haven't time to look for
it now, so I'll get the duplicate, which I have on a
hunch indoors. We are all honest people, here,
iir. [Ea-it into House.
Red. All's right we shall get it he has gone
for the bunch.
Ber. Don't forget No. 13.
Red. Hush, he is here I don't seem to notice
him. Sing.
PIERRE Enters Redmond and Bertrand sing
together a verse of a popular song in Burlesque
Opera style.
Pierre. Bravo, bravo I Why, gentlemen, you sing
a very good song ?
Red. Why, yes, we do sing a little they know u
at the Opera.
Ber. (Aside.) I believe they cto in the pick-
pocket line.
Pierre. (Looking on the bunch.) Key of the cellar
this is it. (Taking it off, and leaving bunch on
chair, L. H.) Now for it.
(Opening door of the cellar, and going in . t
Redmond takes up the bunch, and
searches for the key. .Bertrand assists
him.)
Red. No. 10, 11, 12, 13.
Ber. That's ittake it off.
Bed. Confound it I can't. (Trying to get it off.)
Pierre. (JKitJiin.) I've got the wine.
Ber. Make haste make haste. Oh, my poor
nerves.
.Red. I have it.
(Taking off "key and putting it in his
pocket as Pierre enters with u - ine. He
turns to lock cellar door.)
Pierre. I wonder what became of that key ?
Ber. I know. I found it down by the door when
you went in. There it is. (Giving it.)
Pierre. Now, that's very odd ; I looked so care-
fully for it. I'm very much obliged to you.
(Going towards house.)
Red. Oh, you are very welcome. Haven't you
forgot something, young man ?
Pierre. Not that I know of.
Red. (Pointing to chair.) Isn't that your bunch
of keys ?
Pierre. (Going to the chair, andtaking bunch.) Oh,
what a fool I am. I don't know what I'm about.
I shall lose my head some day. (As he turns to enter
house, Redmond takes a full bottle out of his basket,
and puts in an empty one.) Thank you, sir; I'm
very much obliged to you. [Exit into house.
Red. Ha, ha, ha! Well done us. I declare I
never did anything better since I have been in the
profession. Now, then, we must wait patiently till
everybody in the house is asleep, enter the room,
take the pocket-book, and make our escape.
J)um. (Within.) Come along, friends. Now,
then, for the dance.
Red. Hark, they are coming here! Let us mix
with the villagers, and join in the dance 'twill
prevent suspicion.
Enter DUMONT, GERMEUIL, CHARLES, CLE-
MANTINE, PIERRE, LOUIS, Waiters," and
Villager* from how.se. DUCASSE, PETITOE,
and GrROS JEAN, with their Instruments, enter
through Gates.
Dum. Now, then, my lads and lasses, take your
partners, and foot it merrily.
(Pierre places the musicians on the bench,
1 E. R. H. the leader rosins his bow,
taps to begin, &c. Bertrand seats him-
eelf in L. H. corner, with a bottle and
glass. A pas seul or pas de deux
then a quadrille is formed. Redmond
asfcs a lady (the principal dancer) to
dance with him. She refuses, not
liking his appearance. He takes out
his snuff box, flourishes his handker-
chief, and at last persuades her to be
his partner. He leads his lady forward,
bows with great ceremony to everyone,
takes his place in the front, and dance*
in burlesque imitation of the Opera
style. A quadrille of sixteen, in nc<>
line*, by all the characters and thi
corps de ballet.)
ROBERT MACAIRH.
FlOUBJt :
Both sides meet in the centre, and return to
places.
Ladies hands across.
Gentlemen join hands with their partners ; all
balancez.
Turn partners to places.
The whole of the pastorelle figure as in the first
set ; alternate couples advancing on each side ; pro-
menade all round.
( H'hen the dance is over, Redmond leads
his lady to a seat ojfers her refresh-
ment, &c.)
Ber. There he is, all in his glory. Oh, Lord!
who'd take him for a thief ?
Bed. Well, comrade, how do you get on ? Why
don't yon dance ?
Ber. I can't dance ; I arn't in spirits. I arn t
such a bold-faced chap as yon. I'm afraid they'll
know me.
Bed. Pshaw! Make yourself agreeable, as I do.
I'll get you a partner.
Ber. No, no !
Bed. But I say yes ! yes yon shall dance. (To a
tody (the principal dancer) who is paseiny at the
moment. ) Mademoiselle, this gentleman, my noblo
and illustrious friond, is desirous of dancing the
dance with yon.
(The Lady bows Redmond pushes Ber-
trand forward he offers hvs arm, and
leads her to the front.)
Ber. (Aside to Bedmond.) I won't. Oh, my poor
nerves! (To lady.) Upon my life, yon are very
handsome. (Aside.) If the gendarmes were to see
me now.
(4 yallopode (four sides, as in a quad-
rille) by the characters and ballet.)
FlOURl:
All chassex croisei ladies to the centre.
Dos a il.is.
Top couples lead through to opposite sides.
Bide couples ditto.
Top couples lead back to placet.
Side couples ditto.
Right and left all around.
Follow Bert rand wherever he leads.
(Bertrand dances grotesquely Bedmond
stands near the leader and directs the
Dancers, calling the figure, Jtc. To-
wards the conclusion he seizes the
violin and leads the orchestra, dancing
and playing with extravagant action
until the fall of the curtain.)
3TD 07 THE FIRST ACT.
ACT II.
SCENE. The interior of an Aubergt. A raised
gallery from 3 E. to 2 E. B. H. tcith tico chambers
openiny on it (Nos. 12 and 13) a staircase leading
to the gallery 2 B. B. H. In the centre of the flat a
large high practicable teindo'c, tcith shutters to
fasten inside, and a door L. H., supposed to be the
principal entrance to the hous* The lack-ground
remains as in .4ct I. A door on each side. N. B.
Theictndou>8hutters are closed at the commencement
of the Act. A large table 2 E. L. H. corered with a
ichite cloth. A table under the gallery for the Gen-
darmes to place their siccrds and carbines upon.
Music.
BERTRAND comes out of No. 13 in great alarm
feels his way down the staircase, and leans against
the balustrade. REDMOND, with a quantity of
bank notes in his hand, rushes out of the room,
closes the door, and descends.
Ber. Oh, my poor nerves ! What have you done ?
I hav'nt a drop of blood in my veins !
Bed. "fwas unfortunate. Necessity has no law.
He would have alarmed the house.
(Counting notes.)
Ber. Come, come let us make our escape. Day-
light will soon appear, and wo shall be discovered.
We've got the money ; come, come, let us be off.
Bed. You fool ! our flight would cause us to be
suspected. We must remain.
Ber. Remain! oh, my poor nerves! what will
become of me ? Ton must be out of your senses.
Hark! (Shudderiny.) I hear something moving-
some one walking ! Come, come, let us bo off.
(Trying to force Bedmond away.)
Bed. What tho deuce are you afraid of ? Come
into our chamber, and we'll divide the money. If
yon don't learn to be more a man, I'll cut your
acquaintance, or your throat, one of these days.
[Pulling him off through door I s. ft. H.
MARIE opens the door No. 12 appears in il*
gallery, and cautiously descends the staircase.
The daylight begins gradually to be seen through a
hole at the top o/ the shutters.
Mar. No one is up yet. The moment is favour,
able. I will quit tho inn before Mr. Germeuil
awakes. H >vi.l, no doubt, seek to renew his
examination, and I hare not fortitude to bear it
: han cover myself with shame, by exi
my wrongs and my disgrace, I will quit tho 1
If I could get out without noise
(She tries to open the door finds it is
locked.)
Enter PIERRE, with a lighted candle, /rom a
chamber in the gallery.
Pierre. It's scarcely daylight. I think I'm up
early this morning after our jollification. (He
looks over the balustrades and sees Marie.) Hollo 1
what's that over there ? Eh ! 'tis the woman we
gave shelter to yesterday. What the devil is she
about? (Quietly descends.)
Mar. Unfortunate ! I cannot open the door.
Pierre. Why do you want to open it ?
Mar. (Starting.) Ah!
Pierre. Where do yon wish to go so early? I
thought yon promised Mr. Germeuil yon would not
go away without speaking with him.
Mar. "Tis true. I had no intention of going
away. I merely wished to (Con/used .) to to
take the air. The chamber where I slept was so
small, I could scarcely breathe.
Pierre. Indeed I now do you know I think it is as
airy and comfortable a room as any in the house.
But be that as it may, we don't open our doors
until master and all the family are stirring.
Mar. I beg pardon
Pierre. Ueide.) I don't half like this, (Aside.)
I think you might have waited till you were called.
For my part, I think master is too good-natured-
he pives an asylum to everybody, and often takes
in idle people who ought to work for their living,
instead of depending on charity.
10
EGBERT
Mar. [Weeping.) Another humiliation !
(She takes out her pocket-handkerchief to
wipe away her tears, and lets fall the
purse given her by Germeuil.)
Pierre. (Taking it up.) Hollo! what's thisP a
jjurse containing gold !
Mar. 'Tis mine ! give it me !
Pierre. Hah! hah! it seems, then, you are not
so poor and miserable as you appear to be. (Re.
turning her the purse.) You area deep one. (He
fcZoics out the candle, then goes up and opens the
shutters and the window. Marie sits at a table L. H.)
What a beautiful morning ! I say, if you want a
mouthful of air, put your head out of the window
(bloving) capital for the lungs ! (A large Icll is
beard ringing without.) Hollo! who is that ringing
our gate bell so early ? (Bell rings again.) Don't
be in a hurry I'm coming!
[Opens door and exit.
HEDMOND and BERTRAND enter from their
room, R. H. .Bertrand has a short while Icd-gown,
and Redmond an old dressing-gown, very large pat-
tern, and a handkerchief tied round his head, the
ends hanging down on the side.
Ber. Where does that noise come from ? Oh,
cny poor nerves ! Have they found it out already ?
Red. No, no, you coward ! (Seeing Marie.) Eh!
isn't that the woman we saw last night ?
Ber. Yes.
Red. I must see her face again and clear np my
suspicions.
(^duancing towards heron tip-toe Ber-
trand seats himself on the stairs.)
Mar. Fatal is the impression poverty inspires
the unfortunate ia always suspected of being guilty
of crimes.
Red. (leaning on the back of her chuir and making
his snuff-box creak.) You seem unhappy, my good
woman ; what is the canto of your grief? Come,
come -don't fear to trust me, For sometimes when
we least suspect it we may find ourselves in society
and in places where we are known.
3far. Oh, heaven! do you know me?
Red. I didn't say that ; nevertheless, at first, the
ound of your voice, the contour of yuur ficrure
aind features recalled to ine a certain person. Were
you ever at Grenoble ?
Jllar. (Agitated.) Grenoble!
lied. Yes. I lived there some time did not you
lso reside there ?
Mar. I!
Red. Yes near the prison.
Mar. (Aside.) Ahl I am known. It is true,
that
Red. It is true that it is true, eh ?
Her. (Aside.) What does he mean by all these
questions ? What is it to him where the woman
has lived ?
/,vd. Did you know, about eijrhtoon or nineteen
;r*o, a person called Robert Mocairn?
3Iar. Gracious powers ! what name have yon
pronounced ?
Red. That of your husband your
Mar. Silence, sir ! repeat not the name of a
monster who lais embittered my days, and brought
cue to shame to misery and ruin.
(Redmond bursts into a laugh, takes a
pinch of snu,/, and crosses to Jlertrund
Murie ascends the staircase, and
inters her roam.)
MACAIRE.
Red. (To Bertrand.) 'Tis she!
Ber. What she ?
Red. My wife !
Ber. Your wife! does she recollect yoaP
Red. No.
Ber. Glad of it let us be off.
Red. Stay we'll have our breakfast first,
Ber. Breakfast ! I can't eat. You don't consider
my nerves.
Red. Pshaw ! never mind your nerves. Take ray '
dressing-gown, and give me my coat. (Taking off \
dressing-gown, and appearing in a very ragged shirt.) ;
Hollo! (Looking at his sleeves.) I've got on one of !
my summer shirts give it me again. (Bertram* j
assists him on with his dressing-gown.) Now call '
the waiter.
Ber. But, I say
Red. Call the waiter.
Ber. Oh, my poor we shall get into another
scrape. Waiter! waiter! waiter!
Red. (Taking the Stage.) Waiter! waiter! hoUo !
hollo !
Ber. (Imitating.) Waiter! waiter! hollo! hollo!
Enter PIERRE, D. in p.
Pierre. Here I am, gentlemen. You are up early
have you passed a bad night ?
Red. Oh, dear, no quite the reverse, I assure
you.
(Suiging, taking snuff, and flourishing
his pociiel-handkerchief. )
Ber. Quite the re verso -quite the reverse, I
assure yon. (Imi(a/ing with torn handkerchief.)
Pierre. I have made you wait a little, gentlemen,
because I was engaged putting up the horses of
some guests who havo just arrived three gen-
darmes.
Bar. (Starting.) Gendarmes. Oh, my poor
nerves I
Pierre. Hollo ! your friend seems frightened.
Red. (Kicking Bertrand.) Frightened! Oh, no.
(Taking Pierre aside.) The fact is, ho is a little
touched here in the upper storey, find I frighten him
with the name of gendarme as they do children
with that of Bogle.
Pierre. Poor fellow ! I thought he was foolish.
Red. You mnsn't nr.nd what he says. Bring us
our breakfast, young man.
Pierre. Immediately.
(Exit, 1. B. L. H.
Ber. (Aride.) Now I shall bo mnrdorcd !
Red. (Seizing Jiertrandly the collar, and dragging
him forward.) You in ffrual rascal ! You cowardly
villain, do you want to ruin us?
Ber. No, I don't, bnt
Red. Be quiet, or I'll murder you.
(H* forces him into the Room R. H.
Music.)
Enter LOUPY, BATON, and FLONFLON, D. in P.
and PIERRE, 1. E. L. H. with Plate*, &c., which
he places on the Talle.
Pierre. Well, sergeant, your horses are safe in the
stable.
Lou. Yes, and eating their breakfast. Now it's
our turn, Pierre ; bring 'is somo ham and eggs, and
the best wine in the house.
REDMOND and BERTRAND, with their Coats on,
enter from their Room, and swagger down to t/u
front.
Pierre. Immediately. Hare the kindueai to bit
ROBERT MACAIRE.
11
down here. (Pointing to table, L. H.) Yon can
breakfast with these gentlemen.
(Pointing to Redmond and Bsrtnmd.1
Per. (Aside.) Breakfast with three gendarmes?
Oh, my poor nerves !
Red. (A/ecting the fashionable.) We shall feel
honoured.
Lou. ( Examimvw Redound and Btrtrand.) I hare
seen these persona somewhere. Pierre !
(Taking him asidt.)
Ber. How ho examines us! Oh, my poor
nerres !
' Lou. Oh, I recollect I saw them yesterday on
tlio road.
Pierre. They are very respectable gentlemen. I
think they belong to the Opera. They .are such fine
singers. The tall one in particular.
(Redmond tings a, vene of an Kalian
ong t'n imitation of Rulini putt his
U on hi* coat pocket*, and aoet up,
showing a large patch on hi* trow-
er*.)
Pierre. He can do anything with his roice.
Lou. Can he? Then I wonder he doesn't make
it get him a new pair of trowsers. ( Retire* up. )
Red. (Aside to J : ^ the sergeant who
examined us so closely yesterday. Impudence
alone can saro us. Do something to make him
believe yon are silly. Sing -dance do anything.
(Redmond sings another verse, and Bertrand dances
he makes an extravagant pirouette, ttumblet against
Redmond and knock* him down Pierre n
Gendarmes lift them up Redmond beats and kicks at
Bertrand.) Oh, you blackguard I Oh, you
von rascal !
Ber. I pit! I couldn't help it t
kfast is ready, gentlemen.
Lou. Will yon sit down, sir ? (To Redmond.)
Red. With the greatest pleasure. After you.
(T /. . f-Mr \) If you dare to stir a step I'll mur-
der yo;; Now do sit down.
Ber. !i, my poor nerves! (florid.)
her not. (Aside.) Oh, those devils of gen-
darmes 1
(Pushing him into a sat.) You f
(A*de.)
Ber. Oh, my poor nerves !
1 >trn, C. The two gendarmes teat
themselves on each side of him He
starts, look* from one to the other,
trembles, Ac. Rfdmond makes hi*
snuffbox creak.)
Red. You must not mind my friend, gentlemen
he stands too much upon ceremony. Come, Mr.
, you must drink with us.
Pierre. Thank you, eir I never drink in the
morning; but to oblige you I'll take a thimblefnl.
(Fills a large glass and drinfa.) I don't care if I
take a small taste of bread and ham. (Cuts a large
piece of bread, take* a slice of ham, and cut* wro-
cioudy.) It is some time since 1 have seen you*
Mr. Loupy.
Lou. Why, yes, the country is so quiet ; and if it
hod not been for two rascally thieves, who haw
escaped from prison
(Itertrand afarfs and begin* -to cough
violently the two gendarnws think hi
is choking and flap him on the back .
He nideavours to riee they force him
do"-u he struggles to get aicuy, dread-
fully alarmed.)
Ber. Oh, my poor nerves! thank you thank
yon f gentlemen. A piece of ham went tho wrong
way
Red. From what prison have tho rascals ea-
cap. (1?
Ber. (Atide.) Oh, lord ! Cnrse his impudence !
Lou. The prison of Lyons !
Ber. We are dished!
(SI:; .-,- the table.)
Lou. (After a pause.) Hollo! where is your
fri.-nd?
Red. Bertrand ! Bertrand I (Finding he docs not
appear or anticer, he mak -box creak
Bertrand thovs hinutlf under the table.) What tho
devil are yon doing there ?
Ber. I'm looking for my tooth-pick.
Juxl. Corn.' out !
(Pulling him from under the table, and
thro*\n,j him into R. H. corner.)
Ber. Oh, my poor uorves I I couldn't stand it.
at has become of the rascals ?
Lou. -omo-
whero in this neighbourhood. (Ri*in stay. Oh, you fool ! Oh, my poor
n.-rves !
Lou. You are very polite, but I must attend to
my duty . hat have I to pay ?
Pierre. and a half.
Lou. (Taking out a purs and giving htm money.)
Therel (To Kedmond.) Sir, your most obedi- ut.
(jffoturns purse tnto his coat pocket
Redmond steals it.)
Red. Well, if you must go, T suppose you must.
, some wine ! One glass at parting !
(Pt>rr fills glasses Loupy, Redmond,
Bertrand, Pierre, and gendarme*,
stand together and hob and nob
' and gendarmes go off Redmond :
shakes hands with Loupy, and botcs '
him off with great ceremony .
Ber. (After watching them off.) Tol lol de roL
(Dancing.) They are otf ! Tol lol de rol lol I
Red. Well, Bertrand, what do yon think of me
now? Didn't I deceive the gendarmes famously!
They are fine jolly fellows capital companions, are
they not F
( 'apital but I'd rather have their room than
their company.
Red. I tell you what, my good friend, it's no usa
12
ROBERT MACAIRE.
disguising one's opinion the fact is, you are a
downright fool. You have several times been on
the very point of betraying us. Now understand
me if yon don't alter your conduct, I'll do myself
the pleasure of cutting your throat.
Ber. Will you? I won't give you a chance.
Red. Now then, let us return to our chamber.
Call Pierre, and pay the bill.
Ber. Pay the bill 1 Nonsense, my dear fellow !
We have no occasion to do that we never pay.
Red. Why you unprincipled rascal! would you
go away without paying your bill I
Ber. Why not?
Red. A pretty name we should leave behind us.
They'd call us swindlers. Pierre, bring our bill.
Pierre. Immediately, sir.
Red. And don't forget the bread and cheese.
Ber. Yes, and don't forget the ingun.
[Redmondpushe* Mm into the room, L. H.
Music.
Enter VILLAGERS, c. D. with PIERRE.
Pierre. You've come rather early, friends ; but I
dare say the bride and bridegroom are ready to go
with yon to church.
Enter CHARLES, CLEMENTINE, and DUMONT,
L. H D. MARIE comes out of her room, and
cautiously descends the staircase.
Cha. We only wait for Mr. Germeuil, friends
we are quite ready.
Dum. He sleeps rather late this morning. We'll
give him a few minutes longer, and then if he
doesn't make his appearance we'll wake him.
Cha. It must be nearly eight o'clock. I wonder
be is not up.
ilar. No one observes me. Now to escape.
(She steals round at the back, and is
about to exit by the door, when she is
met by Loupy and the gendarmes, who
look inquisitively at her as slie passes
she goes off over the bridge.
Cha. Ah, Serjeant Loupy, I'm glad to see you.
What brings you so far from head -quarters ?
Lou. I'm in pursuit of two thieves, who have
escaped from the prison at Lyons. I breakfasted
here this morning, and have returned for my purse,
which I must have dropped somewhere. Pierre,
have you seen it ?
Pierre. No ; I saw it in your hand when you paid
me, but not since.
Lou. Help me to look for it I dare say it's not
far off. (They search.)
Dum. Charles, you had better go up to Mr.
Germeuil. (Charles ascends the staircase.) Per-
haps he is ill. 'Tis very odd 1 I thought he was
an early riser.
Cha. (Listening at Germeuil's door, and trying to
open it.) Ah, I think I hear groans! the door is
locked 1
Dum. Indeed! Pierre, you've the bunch of
duplicate keys give me No. 13.
Pierre. Yes, sir. (Looking over the bunch.) It's
very odd it isn't here.
Cha,. Then I'll break open the door.
(Clementine run* up the staircase
Charles breaks open the door and
enters the room with Clementine loud
scream heard.)
Dum Gracious powers 1 What has befallen ?
Clem. (Rushing distractedly down staircase.) Oh,
Mr. Dnmont ! my poor father is murdered !
(General start of horror.)
Omnes. Murdered !
Cha. Oh, horrible crime ! Mr. Germeuil is covered
with wounds, and weltering in his blood !
(The Villagers go -up the staircase, and
enter the roon Clementine wishes to
follow, but is prevented by two women,
in whose arms she faints and is taken
Off, L. H.)
Lou. Dreadful ! had he any enemies ?
Dum. None, I am certain he lived but to do
good.
Cha. No donbt he has been the victim of villains,
who have robbed him. Here is his empty book,
which I found on the ground beside him.
.Lou. Do you suspect anyone ?
Dum. No.
Pierre. But I do. I suspect the woman to whom
you gave shelter last night.
Lou. What, a poor looking person, in a dark
dress?
Pierre. Yes.
Lou. I saw her go out just now.
Pierre. Let her be pursued ! (Loupy signs to one
of the gendarmes, u-ho exits in pursuit over the bridge.)
I saw her trying to leave the house early this
morning. I saw a purse of gold in her possession.
Dum. Indeed ! there certainly is cause then for
suspicion.
Lou. It is my duty to investigate the business.
Place yourself there (to gendarme) and take down
the evidence. (To Pierre.) Was this woman the
only stranger who passed the night here ?
Pierre No, sir ; there were two more travellers
those gentlemen with whom you breakfasted.
Lou. Let them be called.
Pierre. Yes, sir. (Crossing to R. H. door bawling
and knocking.) Hollo! hollo! gentlemen, you arc
wanted.
Red. (TFithin.) What's the matter? Who
knocks at my door in such a furious manner ? (He
enters with Bertrand.) Ah, Mr. Pierre.
Pierre. The officer of the gendarmes wishes to
speak with you.
JBer. (Aside.) We are discovered ! It is all over
with us! We are dead and buried! Oh, my poor
nerves !
Red. Oh, my esteemed friend and breakfast com-
panion what is the matter ?
Lou. A murder has been committed in the
house,
Ber. (Aside.) Oh, my poor nerves! We are
settled !
Red. (Pretending to start with astonishment, hits
Bertrand in the face with his hat. Aside.) Be
quiet. (Aloud.) Who is the unfortunate victim ?
Dum. Mr. Germeuil.
Red. I recollect him well. (To Bertrand.) The
old gentleman we saw here last night, with cotton
stockings, pepper-and-salt coat, and parsley-and-
butter waistcoat.
Lou. Your passports
Bed. Certainly there is mine. (Giving a paper.)
No, I beg pardon that is a letter from a littlo
countess a lovely creature ! That is it no, that's
my tailor's bill that is it.
Lou. (Examining Passports.) You are called
Bed. (Bowing.) Yes.
Lou. Your name is
Red. (Bowing.) You are perfectly right, it is
ROBERT MACAIRE.
Lou. I ask your name.
Red. Henri Frederick Louis do Tour do Main, dc
la Chateau Margot, do la Tonnerre Saint Redmond
Ambassador to the King of the Kickeraboo Islands
and Knight of the Ancient Order of the Kerfousols
(Crossing to B. H.;
Lou. (Crossing to Bertrand.) Now, sir, your pass
port have yon one ?
Ber. (Aside.) Oh, my poor nerves ! Now for it !
I am melting away like a rushlight !
The gentleman does you the honour to ask
for your passport.
Ber. (To Loupy.) Why I showed it to you,
yesterday.
What does that matter ? Isn't tho gentle-
man in the exercise of his functions.
Ber. (Aside.) Curse his functions! I wish ho
wouldn't exercise them on me.
Red. He has a r rogato you, and
' tUy.) you hare no right to answer him.
Ber. There! (Lets a paper fall. Aside.)
the duplicate of a pair of trowsers that's my other
(Giving passport.)
re called
Ber. Bertrand.
Lou. (Looking over passport.) And how are
yon
y well, I thank you how are you ?
Lou. Ps ha! I mean how are you described
your profession ?
Ber. An orphan.
Lou. I ask what is yonr proff
Ber. I tell yon, an orphan. I'm a natural.
(Crossing to Loupy.) I bee pardou, but my
- right senses he is deranged at
times a little cracked half an idiot,
Lou. He seems so. Yonr papers aro all regular
rrect. (Returning them.)
(Gendarme appears at the bad: with
Marie he brings her over the bridge.)
Red. Then I suppose we may con tin
journey.
Lou. No you must not go until the inquest is
over. No one must leave the house till then
Ber. Oh, my poor nerros! We are in for it
:r.Min !
MURME with MARIK, i: u. i>. in w.
Mar. In the name of Heaven, what do yon want
with me !- Why am I brought here ?
Approach, unhappy woman, ami 1- r us
hear if you can exculpate yourself from the dread.
f nl crime of which you are accused.
!i you? Accused! Gracious
Heaven ! what crime do you lay to my charge ?
M r. (rermenil haa been murdered !
Mar. (Wildly.) And am I suspected of being his
. You are.
/' !. (Xsido.) How fortunate.
I am lost! (Covering her face with her
hands.)
Dum. What have you to say, wretched woman,
in your defence ? Do you confess the deed ?
(H'iltily.) Confess! confess what? that I
have deprived a fellow creature of life ? that I am
a murderess ? 'Tis beyond relief 'tis too horrible
to be real ! Recall those cniel words ! Ah, you
are silent 'tis no illusion, then. You d>
me ! Oh, sir good gentlemen, do not let appear,
ances or circumstances condom a mo. I
before heaven I am innocent I You m&r donbt
my words but look upon mo ; the truth is written
here, on this pallid brow and care-worn cheeks,
these streaming eves, these feeble hands, which
now I raise to you in agony of soul, for justice and
for mercy.
(Frantically kneeling to Ditmont and
grasping his ha?id.)
Dum. Rise rise, unfortunate woman! I pity
you, but am sorry to say suspicion is, strongly
against your innocence.
Pierre. How did you come by the purse you let
fall this morning ?
Mar. 'Twas given me by Mr. Germeuil.
Dum. Indeed! and for what purpose ?
Ber. Ah, for what purpose ?
Red. (S'rirfing him.) Hold
. ld yonr tongue!
Mar. He gave it me in charity, as an earnest of
his future bounty.
How much money did the purse contain ?
Four louis. I have not touched them
here they are. (ToJriny out purse.)
Dum. Woman woman, this last evidence is con
elusive. No one would give so large a sum without
first being acquainted with tho person on whom it
Lresofthe Harem. Partu. By G.W. M.R.
. i. A:*:. P.v Lord Lytton
M. Reynolds
(}. w. M. Reynold!
sbln P.v H P.. siowe.
M. K. yn-ol.ls ,
n 'aret. Part :'. Bv (i. W. M. Reynolds
143. Ludyof theCamcllas.&c. By A. Dumas F1H.
144. The Young Duchess. Part 1. P.y G.W..M. K.
145. The Young Duchess. Part 2. By G. W. M. It
146. Deverenx. By Lord Lvtt/>n.
147. Omar. Part 1. By G. W. M. Reynolds
mr. Part 2. By G. W. M. Reynolds
149. The Last of the Barons. By Lord Lrtten.
ress Eugenie's Bcudoir. (1). -
(B3381 8l0 )4188l-A.32
.General Library
University of California
Berkeley