A C- A u 1 N R EGIC 4 NA 'I 9 en 4 3 > H r- -H J Mrt2i3HALL His Excellency the governor m HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR A FARCICAL ROMANCE In T]iree Acts By R. MARSHALL All rights reserved under tJu Ititermztional CopyriglU Act . Performance forbidden, and right of representation reserved. A pplication for the right of performing the above piece must be made to A If. Hay man, Etnptre Theatre, Ne'M York. BOSTON : WALTER H. BAKER £- CO. HIS EXCELLENCY TBE GOVERNOR. Copyright, 1901, by R. Marshall. All rights reserved. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. The acting rights of this play are reserved by the author. Performance is strictly forbidden unless the ex- press consent of his agents has first been obtained, and attention is called to the penalties provided by law for any infringements of his rights, as follows: — " Sfc. 4966 : — Any person publicly ptrrfoiniini; or representinK any flra- matii- or musical compo.sition for which copyrig'u lias been ol lained, with- out the consent of the proprietor of said dramatic or musical composition, or his heirs and assigns, shall he liable for damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such jum, not less than one hundred dollars for the first and lifty dollars for every subsequent performance, as to the court shall appear to be just. If the unlawful performance and representa- tion be wilful and for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty of a mis- demeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period not exceeding one year." — U. S. Revised Stati'iks, Title 60, Chap. j. Stanbope press F. H. GiLsoN Company BOSTON, u. s. A. n A3i,3 LIBRARY UNHT^RSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA CHARACTERS His Excellency Sir Montagu Martin, G. C.S.I. (Governor of the Amancialand Islands). The Right Honourable Henry Carlton, M.P. Captain Charles Carew, A.D.C. (On His Excellency's Staff). Mr. John Baverstock (Private Secretary). Captain Rivers [ ^^^ ^,^^ ^jj^j^^^ Fusiliers). Major Kildare ) A Clerk. A Sentry. A Butler. A Footman. Mrs. Wentworth Bolingbroke. Ethel Carlton. Stella de Gex. SCENE. — The Vestibule of Government House, Amandaland Islatids, Indian Ocean, TIME. — Today. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR THE FIRST ACT Scene : — The Vestilmle of Government House, Aman- da/and Js/ands, Indian Ocean. Beyond, a sea- view of picturesque bay in strong sunlight, with tropical vegetation in foreground. Verandah and path at back of stage, with fowering shrubs and a Sentry-box. A large open doo7'way leads f?-om the verandah to the stage, which forjns a spacious apartment, beautifully furnished in Indian fash- ion. There is an alcove with writing-table, which can be shut ofp by curtains. There are folding- doors on either side. large open windows look on to the Bay. Wicker chairs, stafiding lamps, palms, grasses, fo7C'ers, tiger-skins, c>-c., are grouped about stage, llie bells and lamps arc electric, and on the wall to the right is a telephone. 2 Ills KXCKLLKXCY TJU: GOVJiKXOR As the curtain rises a Bl ri.ER and 1'ootman are supcrinicniiing a table laid for breakfast. A Sentry is on his beat at back, passing to and fro, occasionally standing at ease in front of his box. Captain Carew enters. He is a good-looking fnan of twenty-seven in the undress uniform of an A.D.C. Baverstock, a close-shaven, taciturn- looking, red-haired }na?i of thirty, in a grey frock- coat suit, is writing at table in alcove. He comes down with papers in his hand as Carew speaks.. Carew. \^Gaily.'\ By Jove, what a magnificent morning! A heavy dew has fallen, the air is soft, and there's a perfect orchestra of piping birds in the trees. It's glorious 1 One never gets a day like this in England. Baverstock. [^Morosely , and touching an electric bell.'\ Thank heaven, one doesn't. As for tropical orchestras, I prefer a German band on a wet night in London. Carew. Oh, come, cheer up 1 Remember, to-day heralds the advent of two ladies from England, HIS EXCELLEXCY THE COJEKXOJi 3 Baver^xock. I resent that. I resent the presence of women in any official building. \^A Clerk enters and Baver- STOCK hands him desj>aiches.'\ These despatches are for His Excellency's signature. They are to be marked " Confidential " and forwarded to Downing Street by the English mail. Clerk. Yes, sir. [^^v/7. Butler. \_To Carew.j Breakfast is on the table, sir. Carew, Right ! \_To Baverstock.] Surely, my dear fel- low, if a member of the English Cabinet — espe- cially the INIinister to whom we are respoubible — • chooses to visit the Islands, you don't grudge his being accompanied by his sister and daughter ? Baverstock. I do. Women have no official existence — or only confidentially. I go farther. I resent any Right Honourable gentleman presuming to visit us. Carew. Why ? 4 JUS EXChLLl.XCV THE OOl'LRXOR Baverstock. Why ? Because it iiiiplics that we don't know our work, that we require his personal scrutiny. I pre- sume that sort of ofiPicial is termed " Right Honoui- able " because it is so necessary to emphasise the fact. Carkav, But, my g(iod fellow, he's not coming in his min- isterial capacity. He's yachting for his health. ]iAVERS'rOCK. So he says. Believe me, he comes as a sort of political Paul Pry. ("arkw. Then I say let him come. He"]l find the Islands as trim as a new painted gunboat. Why, there's never been such a popular Governor as Sir Mon- tagu. The Islands were never so prosperous as now. I'm an admirable A.D.C., and you're suffi- ciently depressing as Private Secretary. Baverstock. Suppose this tlireatened rising of the natives comes off ? The outlook's black enough. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERXOR 5 Carew. Naturally, as it concerns niggers. Enter Butler. Butler. The English mail is in the harbour, sir, and Mr. Carlton's yacht, The Butto-fly, is at anchor in the bay. She came in late last night, sir. Carew. Why, then they may be here at any hour ? Rooms are prepared for Mr. Carlton and the ladies ? Butler. Everything's ready, sir. Carew. Good. [Butler retires, and Footman enters and remains waiting by doorsl\ We ought to hiury up with breakfast. \A voice is heard without, singing " Come into the garden, Matid^^ Ah ! here comes His Excellency. Enter Sir Montagu Martin, a smart, good-looking man 0/ forty, carrying a targe bunch of roses in his hand. As he /lasses, the Sentry /resents 6 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR arms, SiR Montagu affably acknowledging the salute. Sir Montagu. \Genially?\ Good morning, gentlemen. So The Butterfly is in, and the mail ; and here's breakfast. ( 'apital ! Glorious morning — lovely roses 1 \Sits (hnvn?\ Now then, what is there ? BUTI.IR. \Po7upously?^ Grilled soles, omelette and mush- rooms, your Excellency. Sir MoN'i'A(;u. Ah ! Thank you ; you needn't wait. \Exeunt Butlp:r and Footman.] I've had a line from Carlton. He hopes I won't trouble to meet him on landing, as the hour is uncertain. [^E.\at?iining tabic closely.'] Where on earth has all this yellow dust come from ? Carew. I believe its from the century aloes that are flowering outside. Sir Montagu. Ah I to be sure. You know the legend the islanders have ? HIS EXCKLLE\CV J III: GOrEA'.VOK 7 Carew. No, sir. Sir Montagu. These particular aloes flower only once in a hun- dred years, and the yarn goes that in dying of love of their own consummation, the yellow dust of their blossom is blown about and causes an epidemic of love wherever it rests. They say it attacks one quite suddenly. Quaint idea, isn't it ? Baverstock. It's a comfort it's only an idea. Carew. Love itself is only an idea, my dear fellow, but a very charming one. Sir Montagu. Well, well ! at last Government House is to be honoured by the presence of two, no doubt, fresh and charming English ladies. Ah, Baverstock I I see a twinkle in your eye. Baverstock. Really, sir? I wasn't aware of it. And I don't imagine the elder lady can be exactly "fresh." She mny be well preserved. 8 HIS EXCELLEACY 77/E CO]'ERA'OR Sir Montagu. All your arrangements complete, Carew ? Carew. Quite, I think, sir. Sir Montagu. \To Baverstock.] You've seen to Mr. Carlton's study — given him something to read — journals, papers, and so on ? Baverstock. He's got all last year's bluebooks and a waste- paper basket. Sir Montagu. That's right. By the way, there's one little matter. When you both joined my staff it was understood, you know, that there was to be no question of either of you getting married, or even engaged. Eh, Baver- stock ? Baverstock. Personally, sir, as you know, I avoid women ; although, if only from the fact of my own existence, I gathi-r that they are necessary. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 9 Carew. And I am strong in that I love them all. Sir Montagu. Quite so, my dear Carew ; but the only emotion suitable for official folk, such as we are, is a purely platonic friendship. The official in love is an offence against official decency. Ye cannot serve the State and woman. Baverstock. For either ye will cling to Sir Montagu. Yes, precisely. Of course, in your treatment of our guests I wish you to be pleasant, genial, even amusing, if — \glancing at Baverstock] — if that is possible. But nothing more. For myself, I never contemplate matrimony. I am wrapped in my duty to the State, and were a woman to unwrap me I should die of an official chill. There's only one other point I need touch on. Mr. Carlton, the Colonial Secretary, is an extremely important personage, who, duly cultivated, may be of the greatest use to us in the future, particularly to me. It is our duty, there- fore, to cultivate him. lo JUS KXCr-J I.EjXCY T//K GOl'KKAOR Carew. liut not his daughter ? Sir Montagu. His daughter — within platonic Hmits. I wish you to appear conversant with the interests of the Islands. Be accurate as to facts. For instance, Baverstock, if you remember, in your despatch to Downing Street on the last census you reported that there were half a million white inhabitants and twentj^-five thousand natives, whereas the numbers were really vice versa, and the Home Authorities naturally wanted to know to what cause was due the enormous and sudden multiplication of the whites. Baverstock. A mere slip, sir; a mere slip. Sir Montagu. Unfortunately, it was I who signed the despatch. Baverstock. Yes. That's the only time I've laughed since I left England. Carew. It was very funny, sir. HIS EXCKLLEXCY TIIK GOVERXOR ii Sir Montagu. Yes, wasn't it ? \_An laugh heartily. TJien Sir Montagu suddenly becomes grave ^ Still, it oughtn't to have happened. \Rises and lights cigarette. Others rise. Butler and Footman enter and remove the breakfast-table.'] What I mean is, if Carlton asks you pertinent questions, be guarded in your answers. You grasp my meaning? Baverstock. Quite, sir. I have to ensure that he doesn't grasp mine. Sir Montagu. Exactly. The true public official should be a sort of mental acrobat. You've heard no further rumours of the natives rising ? Carew. None, sir. Sir Montagu. Their reception of the new marriage laws is my only difficulty. You see, it's an innovation, and innovation is the yeast by which risings are bred. Come along, Baverstock. \_Exit L., foUo7ved by Baverstock. 12 I/IS J-.XCKI.I.EXCY TI/E GOVEKXOR Carew, \Left alone.'] As if we wanted to marry ! [Laughs and looks at himself in hand-mirror, tuiisting inous- iache and whistling the " British Grenadier s^] And as if the arrival of a girl and her aunt could affect us ! [Laughs again, stretching himself. Pulls his coat into shape, shoots his cuffs, arranges his tie and ^av/.] A ricksha7i<, draion by a Native, apj>ears on the path, stopping at the entrance. Stella DE Gkx steps out of it. She is a pretty, piquant jcoman of twenty-eight, 7ith Carlton.] Let me offer you a very hearty welcome to the Amandaland Islands. Carlton. You're very good. My sister, Mrs. Wentworth- Bolingbroke. Sir Montagu. How d'you do ? Pleasant voyage, I hope ? Mrs. Bolingbroke. I believe so. Personally I considered it quite appalling. I dislike extremes meeting, as, for in- stance, a very small cabin in a very large ocean. A very large cabin in a very small ocean would be so much nicer. Sir Montagu. True. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Then the view in mid-sea was invariably the same, except that some days it wobbled more than others. \She sits exhaiistedly on sofa?^ Henry, my tabloids. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOJ'ERXOR 27 Sir Montagu. Tabloids !^ I trust you are not an invalid. Mrs. BOLINGBROKE. Oh, no 1 but my London physician recommended these against all epidemics in the tropics. I take one every four hours. Carlton. \To Carew.] Charming bay you have. By the way, what is the population of the Islands ? Carew. \Hesitales?^ Increasing daily, sir, both black and white. Sir Montagu. You'll find our climate most salubrious. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I dislike all climates. The only atmosphere I care for is that of my own drawing-room in London, and even there we have black smoke quite frequently. Sir Monta(;u. You'll revel in the flowers and fruit. 28 HIS EXCHLLKNCY TIfF. GOVERNOR Mrs. BOLINGBROKE. You think so ? I doubt it. I Sir Montagu. Ah I Well, at least our scenery will interest you. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I dislike all scenery except in a theatre, where the Arctic regions and an Indian jungle are both about sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit. When my brother insists on my taking one of these tours with him I become a chrysalis, existing in a state of profound coma till we sight London. Then again I become a caterpillar. Sir Montagu. Er — a butterfly ? Mrs. Bolingbroke. No, a caterpillar. I move slowly, and have none of the ephemeral spontaneity of the butterfly. Sir Montagu. And Miss Carlton — I understood she was with you. niS EXCELLEiYCY THE CO]'ERNOR 29 Mrs. Boi.ingbrokk. She'll be here directly. She insisted on leaving the carriage, and with her maid we left her gather- ing what appeared to me to be scarlet cabbages. \A peal of laughter from Stella is h'-ard in the alcove. Mrs. Bolingbroke rises atui looks first at the curtains, then ifiquiringly at Sir Montagu. Carlton. What delightful childish laughter ! Stella. And did I spill his ink? Oh, naughty, naught}' that I am 1 Mrs. Bolingbroke. You have other visitors ? Sir Montagu. Er — yes — a cousin. The Comtesse de Gex. French, you know. Carlton. Most refreshing 1 A charming voice I \The curtains open and Stella comes douni JO nrs KXCELLEXCY THE GOVERXOR arm-iii-ann with Bavkksiock. She drops his arm on seeing the others and looks down demurely. Sir Montagu. {Introducing^ Mrs. Wentworth-Bolingbroke, Mr. Carlton, Comtesse de Gex, Mr. Baverstock, my secre- tary. Stella. So pleased 1 \Takes Carlton's hand.'] Tve so often read about you in leading articles and things. [ Very sweetly. '\ And Mrs. Bolingbroke, your — your mother- in-law ? Carlton. My sister. Stella. Of course. How stupid of me ! You're so like each other. Mrs. Bolingbroke. A cousin of Sir Montagu's, I think ? Stella. Yes. That is all. HIS EXCELLt.XCY THE GOVERNOR 31 Mrs. BoLIN(iBROK.E. I suppose on the Ha^bury-^^"ilton side of the family ? Stella. No. The Brackenbuiy-Todd side. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Ah 1 I don't seem to know the name. Stella. Possibly not. They go nowhere — except, of course, to Court. Mrs. Bolingbroke. \Aside to Carlton.] What an astounding per- son V She 's like a drawing in " La Vie Parisienne.'" Carlton. Honoria 1 You read that paper? Mrs. Bolingbroke. I found it in your cabin, Henry. Carlton. Kxtraordinarv 1 32 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GO^'ERNOR Sir Montagu. No doubt you would like to see your rooms ? Mrs. Bolingbroke. Thank you, yes. Sir Montagu. Then, Carew [Carew is talking to Stella and docs ?tot /tear.'] Carew, will you show the way ? Carew, Pleasure, sir. And you, Comtesse ? Stella. I am with you. 1 'm so fond of your uniform. I remember I once wore [Sir Montagu coughs 7(.iarningly?\ But there — I 've forgotten. What an imperfect diary memory is ! [Carew opens the door, Stella sweeps out first, follouied by Mrs. Bolingbroke, who raises her glasses and stares after her. Carew and'&KVY.YiSYOQ.Y. follow them, Carlton. [Brushing sleeve?^ Dear me 1 I 'm covered with HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR i^ yellow dust. What a charming woman the Comtesse seems 1 Sir Montagu. H 'm — yes. Carlton. The state of the Islands is satisfactoiy-, I trust ? Sir Montagu. Very much so. I hope that my administration is giving the Home Government satisfaction ? Carlton. \Evasively^ Ah I \Comes down R. c. Sir Montagu. I should be glad of an assurance on that point. Carlton. The Government so far reserves both comment and approval, neither being desirable at the present juncture. Comment, you see, is synonymous with censure, and approval would only imply my wisdom in selecting you as governor. That, I think, is clear. 34 If IS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Sir Montagu. Quite. Then were I censured, such censure would be directed against } ou ? Carlton. Oh no ! For my selection of )Ou was based on }uur good points, and therefore I am only responsi- ble for your creditable achievements. My position is necessarily in the nature of an impregnable rock. Sir Montagu. Whilst mine would appear to have its foundation on political sand. Carlton. A sandy soil may be cultivated. Sir Montagu. And a rock may not. Carlton. The rock relies on its grandeur. Sir Montagu. StiVl, it's aiwavs barren. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERXOR 35 Carltox. Eh? . Sir Montagu. A mere metaphor. Carlton. Your only difficulty at present, I imagine, is the reorganisation of the nati\e marriage laws ? Sir Montagu, That is so. You see, when England annexed the Islands in the 'twenties, in the interests of Christi- anit}s and with great slaughter, each native was allowed three wives, rajahs thirty — if they could get them. With the advent of Bishop Garraway in '71, these numbers were reduced to natives two wives each, rajahs twelve. The Bishop had evan- gelistic tendencies. But the Bill about to be brought into operation places the natives' marriage laws on the same footing as our own. Carlton. And this has given rise to considerable feeling ? Sir Montagu. Yes. 36 HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR Carlton. No danger of a rising, I trust ? Sir Montagu. Oh, I think not. Carlton. The former state of affairs was certainly highly immoral. Sir Montagu. Undoubtedly. Even the rajahs admitted that a change was inevitable. Carlton. They were used to changes, apparently. Ethel. {Without?^ Father! Father 1 Carlton. My daughter's voice. Enter Ethel Carlton. She is a very charming and o.ttracti've girl of hvcnty. in a white yachting HIS EXCELLE.VCV THE GOVERNOR 37 costume and cap. She-carries an armful of tropi- cal flowers. Ethel. Here I am, dad. Carlton. And here is your host. Sir Montagu. Welcome to the Amandaland Islands. \_From the moment Sir Montagu sees Ethel his eyes follcnv her everywhere. It is clearly a case of love at first sight.^ Ethel. Ahl and they are so beautiful. The very air breathes a welcome. The sun, the flowers, the fruit, the sea — even the natives. An odour rises from everything. Sir Montagu. Yes, doesn't it ? [Carlton retires to the verandah?^ Ethel. I shall never tear myself away from all this beauty. Sir Montagu. I wish — 1 Avish I could believe that. 38 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR . Ethel. P'ather, shall I make you a buttonhole ? [Sir Montagu seizes his 07vfi buttonhole and throws it away. Carlton, No, thank you, child. I only care for primroses. Make one for Sir Montagu. Ethel. You have one already, haven't you ? Sir Montagu. No. It — er — faded of envy as you came in. Ethel. Then shall 1 ? Sir Montagu. Do. J '11 hold the liowers. Ethel. There ! \^She puts floivers in his arms.'] You're like an allegorical figure of Summer. Sir Montagu. Am I, really ? HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR 39 CHARLTON". \Looking out at the Bay?\ That. I presume, is the new breakwater ? Sir Montagu. {Abstractedly i\ Yes — yes. \To Ethel.] And you really mean to enjoy life here ? Ethel. Every moment of it. You'll help me, won't you ? Carlton. Not the near one, but the far one, eh ? Sir Montagu. \Repeating mechanicaUy?^ No. Not the near one, but the far one. Ethel. You'll let me gather hundreds and thousands of flowers ana fruit, won't you ? Carlton. What did it cost ? 40 JUS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Sir Montagu. Hundreds and thousands. Everj'thing on the Islands. Carlton. [Realising that they are not /isteni/ig!] Ah I \_He strolls on to the verandah atid disappears. Ethel. [ Who has pinned bntionhole in Sir Montagu's coat?^ There 1 You're quite smart. Sir Montagu. How shall I thank you ? Enter Bavkrstock li'llh papers. From the moment he sees Ethel his eyes /o/lo7c> her, as in Sir Montagu's case. Baverstock. Papers for your signature, sir. Sir Montagu. \_Annoyed.'\ Yes — never mind. Go away I One moment ! This is my secretary, Mr. Baverstock. \^The others bow.'] Thank you, that Avill do. [Baver- .STOCK remains as if entranced?^ HIS EXCELLENCY THE G OVER NO K 41 Ethel. A secretary in such a fairj'land ! It seems absurd. Baverstock. Yes, doesn't it ? Ethel. Ill all this wealth of beauty, however do you manage to write ? Baverstock. Oh 1 with pens — J pens 1 Ethel. It seems so incongruous. Sir Montagu. We're keeping you. I know you're busy. Go away. Baverstock. I am endeavouring to be pleasant, genial, even amusing — if that is possible. But you wish to be alone, sir ? Sir Montagu. Yes please. 42 ins EXCELLENCY l^HE GOVERNOR Baverstock. Then, Miss Carlton, since you admire the bay — and for the first time I perceive a certain rich, romantic beauty in it — let me show it you from the garden. Thus, Sir Montagu shall be, as he desires, alone. Ethel. But — you liave work ? Sir Montagu. Yes, you have work. Go away I \To Ethel, suavely?)^ Come, I'll be your cicerone. Ethel. Ah I tliank you. And the aloes — may I see them ? [Sir Montagu goes out triumphantly with Ethel. Baverstocic remaifis as in a dream, dropping the despatches on the floor wit ho J it observing it. Enter Carew. Carew. What's all this? {^Seeing papers on the floor ^^ HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 43 Baverstock. It is, as she says, a beautiful view, isn't it ? \_Fick- ing up papers?^ It — it certainly is a marvellously beautiful view. She shall see it by moonlight, and I'll be showman, if there is a moon. Carew. What on earth are you talking about ? Baverstock. I don't know, I don't feel quite normal. By Jove 1 it's — no, it couldn't be the aloes. Carew, do you believe it possible that one could come under the influence of vegetable life ? Carew. As a boy I've been under the influence of an unripe apple. What do you mean ? Baverstock. Mean ? I've no idea. Tell me — is there a moon to-night ? Carew. Yes. Why ? 44 J/JS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Baverstock.. Nothing. But it makes all the difference. She has come. Carew. Who ? Miss Carlton ? Baverstock. Yes. Ethel has come. Carew. Ethel has come 1 Baverstock. I don't think you ought to call her Ethel. Carew. But you did yourself, my dear fellow. Baverstock. I've met her, you haven't. Carew. Is she attractive ? Baverstock. {Enthusiastically. 1 Attractive ? She's perfectly — HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOJ'ERNOR 45 \With a sudden change of manner?^ She abhors mili- tary men. Carew. She told you that ? Baverstock. No. But I saw it in her eye. [Sir Montagu and Ethel, much preoccupied, are seen walking up and down the path at intervals during the following?^ Ha ! There she is. Carew. \^Looking through doorway ^^ By Jo\'e ! she is a beautiful girl 1 Baverstock. She's divine, absolutely divine ! Carew. I say, we didn't bargain for this. Baverstock. For what ? Bargain for what ? Carew. For such a vision of beauty. 4^ II rS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Baverstock. You don't mean to say she's upset you ? Carew. Upset me ? No. \Going?\ I'm off to make her acquaintance. Baverstock. \Catching hold of kim.'\ My dear Carew, don't. Remain normal while you can. Hush ! There they are again. Look at Sir Montagu. Don't you see what it means ? Look at his face — his eyes. He-'s in love at first sight. Carew. Bah 1 There's no such thing. [ With enthusiasm ] But she's glorious all the same. She's divine 1 Baverstock. I wish you'd stop saying that. It's my opinion. I hit on it first. Carew. An opinion may be held by two or more. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 47 Baverstock. Possibly. But a divine creature like Ethel can't. Carew, it seems monstrous — mad, if you like — but — I love her! Oh! I Vwow you can't understand such a thing. Carew. How do you know that I can't understand such a thing? How do you know that I'm not experiencing the same sort of feeling at the present moment ? Baverstock. How ? Because I claim the sole right to this emo- tion. It is mine. I got it first. Carew. You can't claim an emotion if it's here. \Strikes his breast. Baverstock. Carew, I will share my last crust with you, if you care for crusts, but not — not Ethel. Carew. ^Suddenly sitting down ?^ I should think not ! 48 JUS EXCELLEACV THE GOVERNOR Baverstock. {Also stttifig.'\ Exactly. Let us calm down a bit. One thing, Carew, is clear. Sir Montagu said he was so wrapped in his duty to the State that, were a woman to unwrap him Carew. He'd die of an official chill. Yes. Baverstock. We ought to save him. [T/iey clasp hands. Carew. ' The thing is how to begin. Baverstock. Never leave her side, day or evening. Carew. ^^'hat ? Both of us ? Baverstock. Or turn about. Carew. Then Til start at once. H/S EXCELLEiVCY THE GOVERNOR 49 Baverstock. There is no time like the present. \They go out hurriedly, ahnost knocking against Carlton, who enters from the verandah. Carlton. Have you seen my daughter ? Carew. Yes, thanks. Baverstock. Oh, dear me, yes I \_They rush out. Carlton. [Looking after Carew and Baverstock.] There is an air of business about these young men. [Examin- ing a Marron glace in his hand.'\ A Marron glac^ 1 that struck my hat ! Somehow it suggests the Uttle Comtesse. She's a cheery httle person, unconven- tional, unrestrained. I foresee a pleasant time in these delightful Islands. Stella enters. Stella. Ah ! [Pointing a finger at him.'\ I watched you come in. 50 1/JS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carlton. I ain honoured. Stella. They've put me in a room in a tower — like a fairy princess, j'ou know — and I looked out and saw you amongst the aloes below, for all the Avorld like a fairy prince, and Carlton. [Deprecating/}'.'] Oh 1 come, my good lady Stella. But you were, really. Of course I only saw the top of your hat, I couldn't see your feet. Well, I dropped a Marron glace — the one tHat landed on your head with such a thump. You're not angry, are you ? Carlton. Why, of course not. Stella. That's my little way, you know. An innocent, practical joke, and we're friends at once. Isn't .everything here beautiful ? It's quite a fairyland. I expect cupids to come Hying by every moment. HJS EXCELLENCY TLIE GOVERNOR 51 But, of course, Cupid doesn't interest you. He never creeps into Parliament, does he ? Carlton. Why not ? Even a politician is human. Stella. Really ? That seems to have escaped the news- paper reporters. I wish I were mixed up in politics, but I'm afraid my love of romance is too strong. Carlton. Romancing and politics go hand in hand at times. Stella. But surely you have no romantic tendencies ? Carlton. You're quite severe. I think I have — at certain seasons. Stella. Ah ! This is September. In — in autumn ? Carlton. H'm ! \M"iv do you ask ? 52 JflS KXCELLEXCY THE GOl'ERNOR Stella. T thought of the lines, " In the spring a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of " Carlton. Yes, I remember. Stella. \Lookifig dowii?^ Of — of — love. Carlton. I see. And you logically conclude that the autumn is a suitable season for an old man's folly. Love, Comtesse, is like climbing for an apple, the honey- moon's the eating of it, and the rest is the discovery that you prefer almost every other kind of fruit. Stella. Is it really ? I've so little knowledge of the world, you know. Carlton. Yes, I see that. Stella. My ideas must seem to you so crude, so childishlv innocent, so HIS EXCELLEXCY TIIE GOVERXOR 53 Carlton. Eh? Stella. Chilclislily innocent. Don't you think so? Carlton. I think you depreciate some very obvious gifts. \Sits by her. Stella. Gifts ! What gifts ? I have none — not even love, and love is the artist that colours life, Carlton. Then I fear he's an impressionist. Lavish in paint and distinctly French. Stella. [ With affected bitterness.'] Ah ! cruel ! You mean that to — to \_Affecting to break down. Carlton. \Sjirprised^ Dear lady, to what ? Stella. To apply to me. Because I'm F — French. I — don't paint — I 54 JnS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carlton. No, no 1 You mistake me. I was talking of love, of Cupid, of — [enter Mrs. Bolingbroke] — of — oh 1 [Seeing Mrs. Bolingbroke.] Mrs. Bolingbroke. [Severely. 1 I've been looking for j'ou, Henry. Stella. [Instantly recovering herself?^ He's been telling me such a sad story — at least, not really a sad story, because it didn't happen. It was about his plans for you in case of The Butterfly being ship- wrecked. You were to be tied to a lifebuoy, then, hand-in-hand, you were to leap from the sinking ship to a boat, and Mrs. Bolingbroke. I never leap. Stella. No. I said you would have more consideration for the boat. Mrs. Bolingbroke. It seems to have been a most uncalled-for conver- s;ition, and scarcely an agreeable topic. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERXOK 55 vStella. No 1 Still you are his sister. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Isn't that rather gratuitous information? I've been so for Stella. For ages. Of course — but I'm so stupid. \Turn- ing?[ Ah ! here's Sir Montagu. Enter Sir Montagu and Yjxwex., followed by Carew and Baverstock. Mrs. Bolingbroke. \Aside to Carlton.] Henry, that woman is pre- posterous and impossible. Sir Montagu. [Aside and ir)-itably to staff?^ Understand me, gentlemen ; when I am entertaining my guests, I will not submit to being followed by my staff. Carew. We were merely endeavouring to assist j'ou, sir. 56 JJIS KXCJiLLK.XCY TJIE GOVERXOR Baverstock. By being " pleasant, genial, even amusing, if - Sir Montagu. That will do. Your assistance was a hindrance. Baverstock. That's a paradox, isn't it ? Sir Montagu. Paradox be — \Aside7\ Ha! I know. I'll get rid of them. \AIotid?^ Carew, Baverstock, it's occurred to me that I should like the General to lunch here to-day. Will one of you — or, better still, both of you — convey my invitation ? Baverstock. Certainly, sir. Carew. Yes, sir. {Neither move.'\ Sir Montagu. At once, please. HIS EXCELLEACY THE COrEA'XOK 57 Carew. By all means, sir. Baverstock. There is no time like the present. l^Sti// fieit/ier move, their eyes following Ethel. Ethel. May I go with you ? I do so want to see the country. \A general alacrity ensues. Carew and Baver- stock get their hats. Baverstock. With the utmost pleasure. Stella. And I ? I'm so fond of Generals 1 I admire their uniform so much 1 Carew. You shall come. Mr. Baverstock will escort you. [Carew and 'Ethel, Stella and Baverstock pass out to verafidah. Carlton. I should enjoy a stroll myself. 58 J I IS EXCELLENCY THE GOVEKXOR Mrs. Bolingbroke. Ah ! Then I think I shall chaperone the party. Sir Montagu. \_Irritahl}\\ Let's all go — in a swarm 1 \_They all disappear. The Sentry presents arms as they pass. Presefitly Ethel retur/is,fo//o7ved by Carew. Ethel. So stupid of me to forget it I Ah 1 there it is. [ Takes up parasol from table and turns to go. Carew. But you don't really want to see the country, do you ? Ethel. Not a bit — with so many other people. Carew. And it's cooler here. \_He places two chairs side by side, and they sit down with their backs to the doonvav. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERiXOR 59 Sir yio'^'Yk6 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR [Mrs. Bolingbroke and Stella viove to doorway. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Exquisite 1 How still the air is 1 The Sentry is the only restless note. \The Sentry is manhing up and down. Stella. Don't you like him ? I'll tell him to stop. Sentry, please I Sentry. Yes, miss. Stella. Would you mind standing at ease ? You're getting on our nerves. Sentry. I ain't, miss ; I'm on my beat. Stella. Please don't argue, Sentry. You're not allowed to talk, you know. Stand at ease like a nice quiet soldier. [Sentry walks of.] There 1 he's gone off in a huff. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 67 Mrs. Bolingbroke. The nightingale again I Let us hear his song in the garden. Stella. \As ihey fnove out?^ Yes, I'm so fond of nightin- gales. The moon and love and stars, and spring nights and things, all seem mixed up in the " jug-jug," don't they. \Exeunt Mrs. Bolingbroke and Stella, Ethel. [ Who has come down and is examining photograph ivhich she has taken from a table.'] How like him ! And that's his signature, I suppose — " Charles Carew." Perhaps some girl loves him. I wonder 1 I never felt so interested in any one before. Strange 1 for it's not as if he were a brother. Enter Carew. He noiu wears th^ evening dress of a Governor's Staff. As he enters, Ethel conceals photograph. Carew. Alone, Miss Carlton ? 68 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Ethel. Yes. {Drops photograph. Both stoop for it hiirriedly, and Carew secures /A] Carew. Why, it's myself. Ethel. Is it,, really? So it is! \Changmg the subject?^ Where — where are the others ? Carew. Playing billiards. Do you care for the game ? Ethel. Oh 1 yes, I like all games. \A piatio being played is heard in the dis- tance. Carew. So do I. Who's that ? Ethel. Probably the Comtesse. Shall we join her ? HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVEKXOR 69 Carew. No, no ! We should only be disturbing her ; and besides, there's a game — er — rather a good one ■ — I used to know, called " Match-niaking." Do you know it ? Ethel. Match-making? No. I've never played at that. But perhaps you can teach me. Carew. I'll try, with pleasure. You see, we each take paper and pencil, and sit opposite each other. There. Now we're supposed to be writing a scene between two lovers in a novel. I write for him, and you for her. \As he speaks they sit at a table opposite each other, and Carew produces pencils a?id paper?^ Ethel. I see. Carew. Well, now, I am in love with you — with her. , Ethel. And — and am I in love with you — with him ? ^ 70 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carew. Yes, I think so. Oh yes, certamly 1 Ethel. I suppose I ought to be. Carew, And we toss for who begins. \Tosses cffit/.'] Head or tail ? Ethel. Head. Carew, It's a tail, so I begin. You're quite ready ? Ethel. Yes. Carew, Very well. I write. " My own Ethel " Ethel. [Jii'sm^.'] Captain Carew 1 Carew. [J^t'ses.] That's her name in the novel, you know. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOl'ERXOR 71 Ethel. \Laughing and sitting again.] Oh 1 I beg your pardon. You see, it's mine too. Carew. It's a nice name. I always liked it. However, I'd better get on. "My own Ethel, ever since you landed on these Islands " Ethel. Am I on the Islands ? — I mean, is she ? Carew. Yes, for I can choose the scene if I win the toss. That's a rule of the game. Ethel. I see. I didn't know. Carew. " I have loved you passionately." Now it's your turn. You reply for her. Ethel. Yes. It's rat'ner difficult. 72 ins EXCELLEA'CV THE GOVERNOR Carkw. Remember, you love him. Ethel. I remember. I think she had better reply, " What is your income ? " Carew. Ah ! you can't say that. It's against the rules. Ethkl. Is it ? Well, she says, '• Why do you love me ? " Carew. I say, " Because you are beautiful and good." Ethei,. No. He says that. Carew. Yes. But I'm him. Ethel. It's rather a confusing game. H/S EXCELLENCY THE GOVEKXOR 73 Carew. Only at first. Ethel. What did he say last ? Carew. " You are good and beautiful." Ethel. Oh, yes. And she answers, " I am sorry I can- not truthfully say the same of you." Now it's your turn. Carew. He, undaunted, remarks, " Do you think you could ever care for me ? " Ethel. And she, being good-natured, says, " I might try." Carew. Ah 1 That's better. You're getting into the game. Ethel, Indeed I'm not. She only said that to gain time. 7t JUS KXCKLLEXCV JI/F. GOVERXOR Carew. Anyway, he comes to her — \rises\ — clasps her hand, and that brings us to the first illustration. Ethel. You never told me it was an illustrated novel. Carew. Oh, yes ! That's one of the rules. We don't draw. We do it by a sort of tableau vivant. Ethel. It's a very embarrassing game. There are so many rules. Carew. Now, before the illustration, we toss again. If it's heads, he embraces her ; if it's tails, she embraces him. Ethel. Then what's the good of tossing? Carew. It's a rule, that's all. Shall I toss ? HIS f.XCI.LI.EACV riJE GOVE AW Ok' 75 Ethei,. One moment ! \Retires hehind sofa?^ Now you may. Carew. Right. [Tosses?^ It's a tail. Ethel, [Indigna?itly.'\ Well, I'm not going to. There! It's a preposterous game, and I don't see where it's to end. I believe you invented it. Carew. To be honest, Miss Carlton, I did. I wanted neither of us to lose, and love's the only game I know of where both players can win. I meant every word I said. Ethel, Captain Carew 1 Carew. It's true, Ethel, I Ethel, Hush! There's some one coming. I — I 76 H/S KXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR Carew. \EagerIyP\ Yes ? Ethel. I — I — I may have meant it too. Carew. Ah I Ethel. I'm not sure. If, when you see me next, I wear a white rose Hush 1 Enter Baverstock /« Staff evening dress. Baverstock. [Gloomily.'] As I thought ! [To Carew.] Sir Montagu wants you in the billiard-rQpm. Carew. My dear fellow, I'm busy. Say you couldn't find ' me. Baverstock. No, Carew. Like George Washington, I cannot tell a lie. HIS EXCELLF.XCV THE COVERXOR 77 Ethel. Possibly George Washington never tried. Baverstock. That is not my case. Constant detection in the past forms the basis of my present moral code. Carew. Then, Miss Carlton, will you excuse me ? Ethel. Yes, of course. Carew. Then come along, Baverstock. Baverstock:. Thanks. I shall remain here. Carew, \Laughing as he goes off?\ There's an old proverb, " Absence makes the heart grow fonder " Baverstock. Of others that are left behind. Yes. S^Exit Carew,", 78 II IS EXCEL/JiA'CV 77/ F. GCWr.RXOK [To Ethkl.] Tell me, did you hear a nightingale in the garden ? Ethel. Yes, singing divinely. Baverstock. It was 1 1 Ethel. You? Baverstock. Yes. I possess a toy of childhood vi'hich, when blown in a glass of water, reproduces with wonder- ful fidelity the voice of the nightingale. My scheme was to lure you into the garden. Ethel. Mr. Baverstock ! Baverstock. Miss Carlton, there's something in the air to-night. I have a presentiment of impending disaster. Ethel. Then you are superstitious? HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR -g Eaverstock. Very. [ With sudden inspiration.'] May I read your hand ? Ethel. Do. I should like it of all things. \^He takes her hand and gazes earnestly at it.] Eaverstock. I perceive that you have recently made a voyage from England to distant lands. Ethel. Yes ; but you knew that. Eaverstock. Still, if it's in your hand, I can't help seeing it, can I ? Ethel. I suppose not. Eaverstock. I note that you are extremely attractive. Ethel. From mv hand ? So J 11^ EXCELLENCY THE GOVEKNOR Baverstock. Er — yeSi It's a beautiful hand, so white and soft I When I clasp it, I seem to forget, the past drifts away, and I am borne on white wings to — to — somewhere. Ethel. That sounds more like telling your own fortune than mine. Baverstock. True. I'll go on. This line crossing that tells me your name is Ethel. '[Meditatively^ Strange ! How strange ! Ethel. It isn't at all strange. My name is Ethel. Baverstock. I know. But look at my hand. D'you mind holding it ? \_She sits by him on sofa and takes his hand?\ Thank you. You see this line ? [Pointing to line on his own hand.^ Ethel. Yes. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR 81 Baverstock. That means that I shall marr}' an Ethel. Ethel. All this is curiously like a game I've been playing with Captain Carew. Baverstock. \A7inoyed?j^ Carew 1 Your hand tells me you abhor all military men. Ethel. Then it's wrong, Baverstock. \Rising excitedly.'] Good heavens ! What is this extraordinary military magnetism ? A cavalry officer is merely a highly-coloured head-groom, an infantry officer a tutor in a school of red-coated boys I Ethel. One might imagine you were jealous. Baverstock. Of Carew I \Ti(rns precipitately?^ That's just m hat S2 11 IS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR I am. For, Ethel {^fumbling for It is not€s\ — I love you ! [Ethel rises?\^ No I \.4s she makes a move- ment fogo.] I insist on your hearing me. It is your duty, as a beautiful and good woman, to listen to any proposal that may be going. That is your province, your mission, your raison d'etre. Excuse my referring to notes. My official training has made me largely dependent on them, \Glances at notes at intervals?^ I confess that my present state of mind staggers me. For years I have been like a safety-match, but in you I have found the box. For years I have lived in a mental perspiration of ink — but that is over. [Ethel is about to j//.] Ah 1 take care, there is a teacup on that chair. Allow me, \He removes cupi\ I have nothing to offer you but a great, unselfish love. I have no means, few attrac- tions, but I am an English gentleman. Ethel. Yes. But there are so many others. Baverstock, Then let me shield you from their importunities. Ethel, I am knocking at the door of your heart. Ethel. There is no admittance except on business. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE COVERAOR S3 Bavkrstock. I wish to acquire a life lease of the entire property. Ethel. My heart has no need of a tenant at present. Baverstock. Then you're losing a valuable rent. Enter Carew. Carew. I'm afraid I'm in the way. Baverstock. You are. Carew. I think I ought to tell you that Sir Montagu ex- plained to me that it was you who suggested that I should play. Baverstock. I believe I did. Carew. Then how about Washington ? 84 If IS EXCELLEXCY TI/K GO]ERNOR Baverstock. My dear Carew, I use George Washington as a convenience, not as an obstacle. We're very busy. Would you mind leaving us ? Carew. \To Ethel. ] Do you wish me to leave the room? Ethel. I wisli you to stay. "" Baverstock. \Rises^^ Then the situation is impossible. We're at a deadlock. C'arew. 1 feel sure, Baverstock, this is most painful to Miss Carlton. Ethel. I — I can go to the garden. Baverstock, A good idea I Allow me to accompany you. Sir Montagu enters unseen, and stands watching; them. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERXOK 85 Carew. Stop ! I will not permit this persecution of one who is our guest. Sir Montagu. [.-/-<-/>/t'.] Our guest ! Baverstock. Persecution ! \FufnbUug for 7iotes?\ Is the love of an honest heart persecution ? Is my life to be relegated to the limbo of a loveless future ? Is — am I — hang it ! — where are my notes ? Sir Montagu. Gentlemen ! What does this mean ? Wrangling in the presence of a lady ! Ethel. Really, it's nothing. Carew. The fact is, sir, when I returned here -^■ Baverstock. Yes, he was here before. S6 JUS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carew. I found that Mr. Baverstock had — well — Baverstock. There is no necessity for evading the truth. George Washington found none, nor do I. I had suggested to Miss Carlton what seemed to me a happy alliance with myself. Sir Montagu. And in doing so expressly disregarded my injunc- tions. Baverstock. Yes, sir, but only because I discovered that true love knows no restrictions. \Ref erring to notes.'] It grows and expands, no matter how arid the soil, how official the environment. It demands a resig- nation of Sir Montagu. Your resignation will be considered later. Mean- time be good enough to leave the room. Baverstock. Since you desire it, sir. [^Going.] I need hardly I HIS EXCELLF.XCY 77//-: GOlViAWOA' .S; say, Miss Carlton, that I leave my heart behind me. Jt is a moral untidiness that I cannot help. There are my notes — [flaying them on the table'] — if you care to glance at them. They contain an epitome of my unalterable affections, selected from such of the best authors as I have been able to procure in in these remote Islands, \_Ife goes out dejectedly. Sir Montagu. And you, Carew ? Carew. Well, sir, I admit I Sir Montagu. In any case, I think it desirable that you too should leave us. Carew. As you please, sir. \He goes out indignantly. Sir Montagu. Let me offer you the most humble apology for the , inexplicable conduct of my staff. I! 88 JJJS EXCJiLLEA'CY THE COVERXOR Ethel. Let us forget it. Sir Montagu. I take it thev both — er — offered — er Kthf.i., Yes. They did. Sir Montagu. Ah I And your answer was ? Ethkl. I said nothing definitely. You see, they inter rupted each other, and then you came in. Sir Montagu. I am pained beyond expression that this should have happened. Ethel. Yes, twice in one evening. Sir Montagu. Twice ? HIS EXCELLENCY T//E GOVE A' NOR 89 Ethel. Once each. Twice altogether. Sir Montagu. If I could hope to efface the memor}' of these indignities I should be more than gratified. I had given them both imperative instructions that they were not to cultivate any potentially matrimonial emotion, least of all one that should run counter to my owa. Ethel. They probably meant nothing. Sir Montagu. [IVarm/)'.] Then the more unjustifiable their conduct. With such a face as yours to inspire them, with your voice lingering in their ears, and your presence giving a charm to all that is beautiful in life — that they should mean nothing 1 Ah I I could read them a lesson. [/j al>out to sit. Ethel. Ah 1 take care 1 There's a teacup on that chair. \Removes it to table. 90 JUS EXCELLENCY THE GOl'EKNOR Sir Montagu. A lesson indeed I For woman is never won by the untutored arrogance of a premature and probably visionary passion. She yields only tothe self-surrender of one who will sacrifice all for her, who would make lier life a day-dream in these Islands, who Ethel. You know — I think, if it happened three times, I should have to speak to papa. Sir Montagu. Have no fear. I will ensure that they don't repeat their offence. Ethel. It wasn't that. I thought that Sir Montagu. Ah I You thought the tone of my apology a trifle too impassioned. Perhaps, in natural indignation, I was somewhat at sea. Ethel. You seem to be getting into the same boat with the others. HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERXOR 91 Sir Montagu. No, no I Their boat has foundered. And I — I have only just set sail. Enter Stella. Stella. What a calm, tranquil evening we're having 1 Ethel. [Doubt/uny.'] Yes. \_S/ie go^s out by the verandah. Stella. So tropical. Sir Montagu. {Annoyed?^ Quite, isn't it ? Stella. It reminds me of the song, " Hast thou forgotten, love, so soon, that night, that lovely night in June." Only this is September, and love-songs have died out. Sometimes I think love itself will die. 92 HIS EXCELLEsXCY THE GOVERNOR Sir Montagu. That is not my experience. Stella. No. You were always an optimist in these mat- ters. \Looks around and finds that Ethel has goneJl Ah I She's gone, Monty ! Sir Montagu. Hush 1 Stella. Mont — agu, I think Mr. Carlton is going to — to ask me to Sir Montagu. Good heavens I To what ? Stella. To marry him 1 Sir Montagu. Stella 1 Stella. On my honour I shall refuse him. I haven't led HIS EXCELLF.XCY TI/K GOVERNOR 93 him on. But to-day in the garden I plucked a rose and a thorn stuck in my hand. Look I There's the mark. Well, he got it out after some pressure. Then presently my shoelace came undone, and that took a quarter of an hour to tie. Then I stupidly dropped my handkerchief, and he- — he won't give it liack. Sir Montagu. Stella de Gex ! You are slowly, I may say rapidly, accomplishing my official ruin. Stella. Indeed — indeed, I'm not. Besides, Mrs. Boling- broke says he'll only marry a very rich woman, and I'm not that. I've nothing but a few nice frocks and hats and things. Sir Montagu. Stella, for the sake of old memories Carlton. [ Without.^ Where is the Comtesse ? 94 HIS KXCJU.LKXCY 'J'l/J'- COl'ERNOR Stella, Hush 1 Here he is. You may trust me. I shan't give him a word of encouragement. Enter Carlton. He does not see Sir Montagu. Carlton. So, Comtesse, at last we are alone. [Sir Montagu coughs warningly, and Carlton looks round?^ Ah, Sir Montagu! How did the rajahs take the news of the reorganisation ? Sir Montagu. Er — with reserve. By noon to-day they were to proclaim the new laws to their people. I think, had feeling been stirred, we should have heard of it by now. Carlton. Yes, probably. [Ethel is seen outside by Sir Montagu. He Joins her, and they walk off. Stella. So you've been deserting me all the evening ? HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR y^ Carlton. It is wise to keep out of danger. Stella. But surely all old heroes — I should say " heroes of old " — pined for the life of peril, not of safety. Remember, a woman adores valour, artless and shrinking though she be. Carlton. " Shrinking " has not been in evidence. Stella. One may shrink inwardly, like — like a walnut. Carlton. An outsider could scarcely perceive the process without the aid of the Rontgen rays. Stella. \Rises?\ I must ask you not to touch on what I consider a scientific indelicacy. Sui'ely one's inner mechanism should be sacred. There is such a thing as propriety. 96 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carlton. Propriety is a curtain we all peer behind. Its charm lies in our knowledge of what it conceals. Enter .Sir Montagu excitedly, followed by Mrs. BoLiNGBROKE and Ethel. Sir Montagu. There's a horseman dashing up the drive at a gallop ! Mrs. Bolingbroke. He's a soldier. I saw a scabbard flash in the moonlight. Carlton. Strange, at this late hour. Ethel. He's here, and reining up. Sir Montagu. Why, it's Rivers, of the Midland Fusiliers. {^He leads in Captain Rivers, who is dressed in khaki uniform, hrown belts, Cs^c, puttees and spurs. He is very HIS EXCELLEXCY 77/E GOVERNOR 97 exhausted, and splashed all over tvith mud. He can scarcely sj>eak.'\ Well, Rivers ? Come, my dear fellow 1 What has happened ? Enter Carew and Baverstock anxiously. Rivers. I've galloped, sir, from the fort to tell you. The natives have risen 1 All. \_In horror^ The natives have risen I Rivers. I never reined till ■ \Staggering?\^ Quick ! Wine or brandy ; I'm spent. Sir Montagu. Bless my soul ! He's not wounded, is he ? Stella. Here's a cup of coffee in the meantime. D'you take sugar and cream ? Rivers. Anything — either — both 1 98 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Sir Montagu. Then you've been attacked on the way ? Rivers. No, not that. The night is dark, and I didn't see that your iron gate was closed. I galloped full against it. Eftter Carew jvith brandy. Sir Montagu. My poor fellow ! Ah 1 here's the brandy. Rivers. [Drinking.'] A thousand thanks I At sunset the natives were seen gathering in masses on the Palm Tree Hills ; the troops were called out an hour ago, and are marching to meet them. It is said this house is the object of their attack, and I've come with a hundred men to defend it for you. They'll be here at any moment. Carlton. The enemy ? JUS EXCELLEACY IIJJC GOVERNOR 99 Rivers. No, the men. I passed them on the way. I'm dead beat. I'll be all right presently. I never galloped as I've galloped to-night. Sir Montagu. Rest a moment, Rivers. Give him more brandy. [ The others close round Rivers and attend to him. Carlton, \_To Sir Montagu.] Do you realise the false position in which I'm placed by this rising? Sir Montagu. I do, fully. You ought to be in Downing Street. Carlton. Of course ! There I can compel attitudes in others, here I must adopt one of my own, the very last resource of the statesman. Besides, I'm travel- ling for my health. You are of opinion that the garrison is sufficiently strong to repress this rising ? Sir Montagu. I am. joo HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carlton. Then let us hold out. I shall be a disappointment to Exeter Hall, but that can't be helped. Get us out of this difficulty, and your elevation to the peer- age is practically assured. Stella. [ To Rivers.] Can I bathe"your wounds ? Rivers. Thanks, no. They're mere scratches, Stella. I'm so sorry. And your nice uniform all spoilt ! Are we in much danger ? Rivers. Possibly. Ladies. Ohl Rivers. I hope not. I'm better now. The General has left a clerk at the Headquarters' Office, who will be in constant communication with you. You have telephonic connection, I think? HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR loi Sir Montagu. Yes, yes ! \_Pointing to telephone.'] It's here. Rivers. He'll ring you up at intervals and report. Stella. May I take the poker, Montagu ? Sir Montagu. Oh I don't worry, at such a moment. Stella. I must have something, you know. I've never been in a battle before, and I can't meet the enemy with a parasol. \_S/ie takes poker.'] Sir Montagu. Will the ladies be good enough to retire to their rooms ? Mrs. Bolingbroke. I cannot consent to go until I know to what extent 102 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR I am in danger. Ethel, child, hand me the tongs. And I should like a clergyman sent for at once. Carlton. Impossible, Honoria. There is no time. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I insist on it. The late General Bolingbroke al- ways said, " When in danger, summon the nearest clergyman." Stella. And I refuse to go to my room in the tower. Perched up there, with bombshells and cannons fall- ing round me 1 No, thank you ! \A sound of men marching is heard. Rivers. Ah 1 here are the men. Officer. [ Without?^ Halt I Front ! Stand at ease 1 \_A number of men are seen to halt in the verandah. They wear ordinary infantry uniform with 7vhite helmets. HJS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 103 Stella. \To Rivers.] Please ask them not to stand at ease when we're in such danger. Rivers. \To Sir Montagu.] I think, sir, if you and Carew will show me over the grounds, I'll dispose my men at once. Sir Montagu. Yes, by all means. We'll point out everything. Rivers. \Goes to Terandah.'l Then I'll march off, sir. At- tention ! Shoulder arms I Quick march 1 [^ExJt RiVKRS and Soldiers. Stella. It's most unfortunate that I've never made a will. Mrs. Bolingbroke. No one is so unreasonable as a man ! Ethel. We can't do any good by talking. Aunt ; we ought 1 All talking >■ at the same time excitedly. 104 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Sir Montagu. I beseech you, ladies, be calm 1 If we come to close quarters, I'll ensure your safety. I can con- ceal you in the coal cellar. Stella. I go to no coal cellar in this. Why, I've only worn it twice 1 Mrs. Bolingbroke. I have no desire to give trouble, but a more suitable fortress would be the wine cellar. Sir Montagu. Well, well, we'll see. Perhaps, Carlton, you won't mind examining the cellars and deciding. Bayer- stock will take you. Come along, Carew I \^He goes out. Carew. Coming, sir. \Aside to Ethel.] It's all right, Ethel. Cheer up 1 It's glorious to take up arms for you, darling ! \Exit Carew hurriedly. Baverstock. [Advanc'fig to Ethel.] As a signal to you that HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 105 there is no immediate danger, I shall blow my nightingale at intervals in the garden. And when the hour of danger comes, you will find me in Carlton. [ Who is ivaithig at r/oor.'] The cellars 1 Mr. Baver- stock ! Baverstock. Coming, sir. [Carlton (7n^/ Baverstock go out. Stella. They've left us all alone. We must do something. I'll ask the Sentry. \Goes to doonvay?\ Sentry, please ? Are you there ? No, he's gone too. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I thinlc we might erect a barricade somewhere. Stella. A capital idea I How clever you are, Mrs. Boling- broke 1 Let's barricade something. Shall we do the door ? io6 ///.V EXCELLENCY THE GOl'ERXOK Mrs. Bolingbroke. The door will do to begin with. Ethel, assist me with the table. \Aside to Ethel.] It's unfortunate having to form a triple alliance with this odious woman. Ethel. But, Aunt, ought we to do this without asking ? \TIiey are now busily engaged in J>iiing tip tables, (Svr., in front of doorway. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Certainly, child. Nothing is so desirable in danger as safety. Stella. Here's Mr. Baverstock's chair. Will some one give me a hand ? [Ethel /leips Jier?^ Thank you so much. Now these chairs and things — I feel just like Joan of Arc, only she had a costume of armour. I wish I had, though it sounds rather cold. There, we're getting on beautifully. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Hand me these palms, Ethel. HIS F.XCKLLEXCY THF. GOVKRXOR 107 Ethel. These ! Why, surely, Aunt Mrs. Bolingbroke. Do as I bid you. \Crossiug zvith palm^follouied by Ethel 7vith cifiot/ier.^ General Bolingbroke always said the War Office had great faith in creating obstacles- Now bolt the windows. [Ethel bo/fs windo^vs. Stella goes to close the gates, Ethel helping her. The gate sticks. Stella. Never mind. That'll keep out a lot of people. [^Telephone beil rings.'] There's the telephone. Shall I ? Yes, some one must attend to it. [ With receiver at ear.] Yes, here I am. No, I'm not Sir Montagu, but I'll tell him. What? The enemy is advancing with great caution ? Yes, tell the General to be sure and stop them. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Ask for a clergyman. Stella. Yes. Hiffh or Low ? loS J/JS J:XCKIJJ:.\CY TJU-l CO V E R .\'0 li Mrs. Bolingbroke. Moderately Higli, please. Stella. Yes. Are you there? We want a clergyman sent up at once, please, moderately High. What? You can't ? Mrs. Bolingbroke. They must. Stella. Mrs. Bolingbroke says you must. Who is she ? She's the sister of Mr. Carlton, the Cabinet Min- ister. Mrs. Bolingbroke. You might mention that my late husband was a general. Stella. Yes. Her husband was a general. What ? No, not in the Salvation Army. Oh 1 how dare you ? Mrs. Bolingbroke. What did he say ? Stella, It sounded like a request to give that information niS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR 109 to tlie Marines, and he's gone away. \Puts up re- ce'ner?^ Mrs. BOLIXGBROKE. Impertinent man ! Stella. Isn't the barricade splendid ! Now we can breathe more freely. Sir Montagu. \^His voice Jieard behinii barricadt'?^ \\'hat on earth is all this for ? Stella. • It's a barricade. We did it all ourselves. Sir Montagu. Absurd 1 I can't get in. Stella. Of course you can't. We built it to keep out enemies and people. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I think, Sir Montagu, if }ou saw it from here, you'd like it. no hJS KXCELLEACY JI/E C0]T-:RN0R Sir Montagu. I shall have it removed. \^He appears on top of barricade^ Now I'm here. I see no prospect of getting down, and I may tell you that we're in the most imminent danger. \_Hc tries to get down, hut finds the structure too s/iaky, and remains on top.] All. Imminent danger ! Sir Montagu. Yes. I believe I heard a volley. « Stella. A volley ! Then I'm off ! Mrs. Bolingbroke. To the cellars ! To the cellars 1 [Stella rushes out,follo7oedby Mrs. Boling- broke. Ethel is followitig them, and has almost reached the door, when Sir Mon- tagu speaks to her. She stops. Sir Montagu. \_Stin on top of barricade^ One moment, Miss Carlton. The danger is not really imminent, and HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOl-ERXOR iii the volley was a mere device to get the others away. I wish to say in this, the last moment that we may be alone, that since I have met you I have been raised and elevated to a higher sphere of existence. I know that to make love when one is elderly is like singing a song of youth when the voice is gone ; but, Ethel, I love you, and I know that you are too pure and good to despite a passion that is at its height. \Nearly falls ^t^ I do not ask you to answer me now. This is an hour for deeds, not words, and I feel a certain inconvenience in addressing you from this structure. [Nightingale heard singitig.'] Hark ! — a nightingale singing a love-song to the' moon 1 Ethel. I don't think it's a real nightingale. Sir Montagu. Oh yes, I know the bird. Its nest is in the aloes. Go to the protection of your father. I shall keep watch over both of you. Don't speak 1 I can't bear it ! Ethel. Then — good-night, Sir Montagu. Sir Montagu. Oood-night, child ; good-night. 112 HJS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR {Bird again heard. Sir Montagu sits on top of barricade pensively gazing at the moon. The barricade is so arranged that at the foot of it is a couch. As Ethel turns to go, Carew appears. She holds up a warning finger to him and sinks on couch. He, un- seen /^_v Sir Montagu, creeps over, sits be- side her and embraces her. Sir Montagu. \As the nightingale continues singing, and believing himself to be alone.'] Strange, that though the very air is charged with impending disaster, I can only think of her. Sing on, sweet nightingale, sing me your song of love ? Pure angel, to whom the clasp of loving arms is as yet unknowm. Then sing, sweet nightingale, sing on ! {The nightingale suddenly stops. ' The door opens and Baverstock enters with the . nightingale and a glass of water. He begins blowitig it vigorously, to the amazetnent of Sir Montagu. END OF THE SECOND ACT. THE THIRD ACT. Scene: — As be/ore, except that the barricade is twtv removed. As the curtain rises, Sir Montagu is discovered at writing-table. Baverstock, an Orderly, and a Clerk are in attendance. Sir Montagu. Headquarters Office immediately. {^Hands paper to Baverstock.] Have that put into code at once. Bring me the Colonial Office rules and regulations. [Clerk, Orderly, and Baverstock go out. Telephone-bell rings. With receiver to his car.'] Yes, yes. I'm Sir Montagu. Quite so. You say there is no immediate danger ? Excellent ! D'you know, I think you might send up another hundred men as a reinforcement. Eh ? Yes. one hundred. I won't tell Captain Rivers ; he mii^lu 114 I^^S EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR consider it a slight on his men's efficiency, and on his own. What? Eh? Yes, under the command of Major Kildare. Quite so. At once. \_Puts up receiver.'] Thank Heaven ! The rebellion seems to be almost over. And Kildare, who is to bring the reinforce- ments, is a thorough soldier. Butler. \Entering7\ Beg your pardon, your Excellency, might I speak to you ? Sir Montagu. Certainly, Groves. Butler. 'Aving just 'eard as 'ostilities may take place at any moment, sir, I think it right to inform you that I engaged myself this morning to Miss Spinks. I Sir Montagu. Mrs. Bolingbroke's maid I Bless my soul, Groves, this is very sudden ! Butler. Yes, your Excellency. I was took quite of a heap. BIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 115 Sir Montagu. Dear, dear 1 Butler. Yes, sir. But what I want to bring to your Excel- lency's notice is the behaviour of the sentry. Instead of doin' 'is dooty up and down 'is beat, 'e's bin standin' at ease under them aloes for the last 'alf hour, beneath my Jiancee^s window, singin' " I want yer, ma honey, yes. Idol" Sir Montagu. Most extraordinary ! I'll inquire into this, Groves. Butler. Thank you, sir. [^Goes fotvards door.'] Idon'twisli 'im no 'arm, sir. P'r'aps 'e was took sudden-like too. [Exif. Sir Montagu. This is very remarkable. A midsummer madness is clearly in the air. I cannot, of course, believe that I myself am affected, but \Listeniiig intently i\ Yes ? a woman's footstep 1 She — Ethel — is coming here ! I know her tread amid a thousand. {^Arranges tic, cuffs, and stnooths luiir.] ii6 II fS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Mrs. Bolingkroke enters. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Ah, Sir Montagu 1 Well, what news ? Sir Montagu. \^Disappo'mtcd?[ None, so far. You ought to be in your room. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I have ventured here in search of my anti-epidemic tabloids. I lost them last night, and I feel so peculiar. [Sir Montagu looks about for t/2et?i.'\ No, pray don't trouble to look for them, for I see you're worried. Come, sit here by me. Let us forget for a moment the peril we are in and talk of other things. Do you know, in many ways you remind me of dear General Bolingbroke. He was extremely good-looking and quite devoted to me. Sir Montagu. Was he ? [Aside] She's showing all the symptoms. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Do you never feel how desirable it is that some HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 117 good woman, not too young, should dispense your hospitality here, sharing your joys and sorrows, sharing Sir Montagu. The expenses ? Mrs. BOLIXGBROKE. Possibly. [»S>^//j.] Are you feeling better ? Sir Montagu. Not appreciably, thank you. Mrs. Bolingbroke. How shall I soothe you ? Shall I tell you of an enchanting dream that came to me last night ? It was the soft spring twilight of a leafy June, and we — you and I — were young again. Sir Montagu. Really ? Mrs. Bolingbrokf. The moon, in a bridal veil of falling dew Sir Montagu. Oh ! The moon was up. was she ? ii8 His EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Mrs. Bolingbroke. Yes, and we were bathed in its sheen. Then — do not forget this is only a dream — we found ourselves chained with garlands of aloe blossoms. Sir Montagu. \\. is the aloes ! Mrs. Bolingbroke. And as the sun rose Sir Montagu. Excuse me, the moon. Mrs. Bolingbroke. Ah no 1 for dawn was breaking. Sir Montagu. Forgive me, but reall\- — where are those tabloids ? \^Rises and looks about.'] Mrs. Bolingbroke. And then the scene changed. We had both grown older. The church was decked with white blossoms. HIS EXCELLENCY 77/ E GO]'ERXOK no You and I and the clerg}man stood — and then, oh ! Montagu. \Leaning her head on his shoulder^ What has come over me ? \Enter Carew and Baverstock. She starts away from Sir Montagu.] Oh ! Ah ! — we were looking for my tabloids. Baverstock. So I saw. Carew. Why, here they are ! {Takes thetn from table.'] Mrs. Bolingbroke. Thank you so much. {Takes one, and leaves the box on table.] Sir Montagu. Mrs. Bolingbroke was — er — er Baverstock. Precisely. Mrs. Bolingbroke. [Much embarrassed.] I was dreaming — and — well, you know, — er — good-night 1 [Baverstock opens the door and Mrs. Boli no- broke y7«//V;'j" oitf. I20 JUS KXCELLEXCV THE GO I ERA OR Sir Montagu. Just in time ! Phew 1 Gentlemen, absurd as it may seem, I verily believe that an epidemic of love is raging, and, for aught I know, these accursed aloes are the cause. Carew. I doubt it, sir, for in that case eveiy one — guests, servants, soldiers, and so on — would be equally affected. And there's no sisrn of that. Sir Montagu. No sign 1 Why [Sentry's voice is heard sitigi/ig the chorus of '■'■ I want yer, ma honey, yes, I do r' All listen intently and remain mute till refrain is 07'er.'\ There you are. He wants her, his honey, yes, he does ! Carew. Still, there's Mr. Carlton and the Comtesse, they're cjuite normal. Sir Montagu. Oh ! Are they ? I'm surprised to hear it. How- ever, be that as it may, there is one subject on which I must touch now that we are alone. You have HIS EXCELLEXCY TIIIC GOVERXOR m\ both elected to propose to a guest of mine. I ask you, was this loyal of you ? Carew. It was to save you from yourself, sir. Sir Montagu. Pooh! Nonsense. However, the situation is a painful one, and must be ended. I propose to invite her to make a selection now. \^Rings be//.'] For this occasion I place you on an equal footing with myself. [Both bow. Enter Footman.] Present my compli- ments to Miss Carlton, and ask her, if she has not already retired, to be good enough to come here for a moment. Footman. Yes, your Excellency. \Exit. Sir Montagu. I would suggest that we all adopt a calm and dignified demeanour. [ Observing Baverstock, ivho is spinning a chair.] What are you doing, Baverstock ? Baverstock. For luck, sir. 122 ins EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carew. What rot ! As if doing this — \}ie spms chair\ — could affect her choice I Sir Montagu. Extremely silly superstition. Still \^Spins c/iaJr.'\ \_As all three are sphining chairs^ Ethel enters. They drop their chairs simultaneously. Ethel. You want me, Sir Montagu ? Sir Montagu. I do, indeed. I have a painful conMnunication to make to you. From what transpired to-night, you will not be surprised to hear that you are an object of — er — affection to Baverstock. To the present company. Sir Montagu. We are unanimous on that point. There, however, unanimity ends and the question of aUotment intrudes JUS EXCELLK.ycy Tin: corEAWOR u.} itself. You have, in short, to choose which of us you will honour with the priceless treasure of your love. Ethel. Surely, Sir Montagu, such a proceeding is unheard of! And in such a time of danger Sir Montagu. I admit your difficulty. The knowledge that you can't avoid breaking two out of three hearts is, no doubt, disconcerting. That, however, is not your fault. The thing is to avoid breaking the most important heart. Ethel. Are you really serious ? All. Quite. Ethel. And you, Mr. Baverstock ? Baverstock. I have a presentiment that I shall not be selected but I remain a candidate. 124 J'i^"^ I'.XCELLEXCY THE GOFERA'OR Carew. Come, Miss Carlton, won't you choose ? Ethel. Yott ask me ? Carew. Yes, I have no fear. I see before us years of happiness, years of devotion on my part, years of Baverstock. Look here 1 Play the game I You can't begin like that before the flag's down. Ethel. Very well then, I'll choose. I choose Baverstock. [Excitedly.'] One moment ! The air is stifling, and I'm parched. [Goes to the side table and gulps do7V7i a brandy-a fid-soda.'] Now — now I'm ready. Ethel. Then I choose his excelleacy the goverxor 1^5 Baverstock. Stop I I omitted to tell you that, if two uncles and a few cousins die suddenly. I succeed to a peerage. Ethel. That could never affect my choice, for I love — I love \^Telephone-ben ri/igs. All start, and Sir MoNTAc;u goes precij'itately to receiver^ foUinved by Baverstock. Sir Montagu. \To Ethel.] Excuse me one moment. Duty before pleasure. Carew. News from the General ! \The excitement caused by the bell ringing brittgs the three men to the telephone. Ethel takes advantage of their backs being turned to slip out 0/ the room. At the same time Carlton enters and quietly takes the chair she has Tacated.'\ Sir Montagu. {With receiver at ear.] Yes, I'm Sir Montagu. 126 UIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR What ? You say it is desirable to put out all lights here ? I'll have it done at once. Thank you. \^Retiirns receiver?^ Then, Miss Carlton \AH look round and find that Ethel has dis- appeared, and Carlton is seated in her chair. They are much embarrassed.'] Carlton. Have you cabled to Downing Street ? Sir Montagu. [Going to 7i>ritirig-tal>/e.] I have just drafted this. [Pichs up paper. Carlton. What have you said .'' Sir Montagu. [Reading?^ Merely " Natives have risen over new marriage laws. Please cable instructions, pending which I shall assert British supremacy in conjunc- tion with Mr. Carlton, who arrived here yesterday." Carlton. H'm — er — suppress my name in the meantime. You see, my presence in ill-health is equivalent t i official absence. In fact, I am not here. I HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 127 Sir Montagu. As you please. {Strikes out n'Oft/s on draft tele- gram. To Carew.] Theie, )ou understand. Carew. Perfectly, sir. Sir Montagu. I think, Mr. Carlton, we need apprehend no dan- ger for the night. I would suggest that, as no doubt you're exhausted, you should retire. Carlton. I'll stretch myself here for the night, if you don't mind. The sentry gives a sense of securit)-. Sir Montagu. Do so by all means. Gentlemen, we must ask for Miss Carlton's decision later. And now, where do you take up position, Baverstock ? Baverstock. I. thought, sir, of sleeping in the passage near Miss Carlton's room. 128 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Sir Montagu. Eh? Baverstock. That would ensure the safety of the ladies. Carew. On the contrary, they're extremely likely to trip over you. Sir Montagu. \Taking cable from Carew and giving it to Baver- stock.] Let that cable go at once. \Exit Baverstock. Carlton. - One moment. I'll stretch myself. \Lies down on couch, having taken off his coat.'\ I never slept so soundly as on an occasion some years ago, when I ordered a flying squadron to the Mediterranean at twenty-four hours' notice. My decisive action, how- ever, had a wide-awake effect on the Admiralty. Sir Montagu. \^To Carew.] Carew, we'll make a tour of the out- buildings. You're quite ready, Mr. Carlton ? HIS EXCt:LLEN'CY THE GOVERNOR 129 Carlton. Quite, Sir Montagu. Then good-night, [Carew tiaiis off lights. The stage is nrnt) in darkness except without, which is in moon- light. Carlton, Good-night. If anything happens Sir Montagu. We'll let you know. Now, Carew, softly. \He goes out, followed by Carew. Carlton, Alone 1 Ah ! another instance of splendid isola- tion, A remarkabjy uncomfortable couch. I seem to have disturbed a public meeting of mosquitoes. Sentry, [ Voice in the distance?^ Halt I who goes there ? (Carlton. \Starting.\ Eh ? I30 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Sentry. Pass, friend I All's well ! Carlton. Ah, the Sentry. [ Yawns, turns on side, gives a genile snore, and drops askej>.'\ [Sentry looks in, then passes out of sight. The door opens and Stella enters in a white tea-gow?i, carrying a lighted candle and the poker. Stella. l^Not seeing Carlton, who is asleep."] Dear me 1 Pitch darkness I Enter Rivers cautiously at back. The following in loud stage whispers. Rivers. Hushl Stella. [Alarmed.'] Who is it ? Stand, or I fire, Rivers. Hushl HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR 131 Stella. Who is it ? Enemies, or what ? Rivers. Hush I It's I — Rivers. It's all right. I'm looking for a spot to post a picket. The verandah, I think will do. You'd better go to your room. Stella. No. I decline to occupy the tower any longer. It I must be bombarded, I prefer bombardment on the ground-floor. Besides, I've got this. Rivers. What? Stella. The poker. It isn't exactly a graceful weapon, but I've had some useful practice upstairs on a bolster. Rivers. Hush ! here is the Sentry. Put out the light. \^He blows out the candle.'] [Sentry appears, looks in suspiciously, and passes on. 132 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR ' Rivers. I must see Sir Montagu about the picket. Where is he ? Stella. Through there, I think, in his office. Rivers. Then I'll leave you. You want rest. Stella. Yes, please. \As he is goingP^ Of course you understand that this costume, though white, is a tea- gown ? Rivers. Quite so. \He disappears along verandah. Stella. And now for such rest as ^s possible. \She arrattges herself cotnfortably in a cane chair. "] Sentry. \Looking in searchingly.^ Halt 1 Who goes there ? HIS EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERXOR 133 Baverstock. [/« the distancej^ Friend 1 Sentry. Pass, friend I All's well ! [Baverstock appears at back. The follcnving scene ill hiud stage whispers?\^ Beg pardon, sir, there's somethin' bin movin' inside. I think it's native spies. Baverstock. Good heavens I In there ? Sentry. Yes, sir. Baverstock. Ha I Well — look here — your rifle's loaded, isn't it? Sentry. Yes, sir. Baverstock. Good 1 Follow me. No, you go first. I'll turn on the light suddenly, you cover them with your rifle. Sentry. Right, sir. 134 tJIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Baverstock. Now softly ! \They enter on tiptoe, Baverstock following Sentry, He goes to electric switch. The Sentry stands with his rifle at shoulder as for firing. Stella. [/;/ stage whisper?^ Whatever's happening ? Carlton. \Jn stage whisper, and sitting up.'\ Is this a dream ? Stella. There — yes, I see two crawling somethings. Carlton. Bless my soul I Figures groping in the dark 1 Stella. What, oh what shall I do ? Ah 1 the door I [Gets down from chair on hands and knees a?id creeps towards door.'j HIS KXCELLEK-CY THE GOl'EKXOR 135 Carlton. The natives are on us ! \Gets do7i'n from couch on haniis and kn^ies.'^ Baverstock. [S//7/ m a 7i.ihisper^ Are you ready? Sentry. Yes, sir. Baverstock. Go ! \Turns up lights and discovers Stella and Carlton on their knees opposite to each other. '\ Mr. Carlton 1 Comtesse ! — I beg a thousand pardons 1 \ Turns the light 0^.] Sentry. Shall I fire, sir ? Baverstock. Certainly not. Carlton. [/"onc/erouslj'.] Turn on the light I [Baverstock turns on light and the Sentry, recognising Carlton, conit-s to attention and presents arms.] The situation. 136 HIS EXCELLENCY THE COlLiRA'OK compromising as it may seem, is in reality childishly simple. Stella. Hadn't we better get off our knees ? I desire to point out that this garment, though white, is a tea.- gown. Carlton. The fact is, I found it impossible to rest in my room ; and we — er — came here Stella. Separately. Carlton. \lo Baverstock.] Oblige me by requesting your military assistant to retire. Baverstock. yro Sentry.] Go away. Sentry. Yes, sir. \Shoulders arms^ grins broadly, and marches off, Baverstock. It seems we mistook each other for hostile natives. HJS EXCELLEXCY TJIK GOVERNOR 137 Stella. Exactly. But we're not so black as we're painted. Baverstock. \Going up to back of writing-table and lighting candles?!^ I'm afraid it is my duty to turn off the lights for safety's sake. But here are candles. Sir Montagu. [ Without.] Mr. Baverstock I Baverstock. Sir Montagu's voice. Will you excuse me ? Stella. With pleasure. Carlton. And remember the attitude in which you — er — surprised us Baverstock. Was too devotional nut to be perfectly respectable. [^He bows solemnly and goes out. I3ul Stella, Hush ! [Mrs. Bolinc^broke starts again and sinks in c/iait\\ Carew. Here's Rivers Hyuig to us. Sir Montagu. Get him -in ! Let us know the worst. Rivers enters in great excitement. Sword drawn. Rivers. The attack has begun, but I think our volleys have silenced it. We saw an immense force moving towards us. I opened tire. Look to yourselves. We've stopped them, I hope, but we can't tell. Our hre has killed hundreds. Sir Montagu. This is appalling. Carlton. But how could vou see that hundreds were killed ? 144 ^^-"^ EXCELLEXCY THE GOVERNOR Rivers. I couldn't. I saw nothing. It was pitch dark. But the war correspondent of the Amandaland Times, who was with me, says he saw. Our discipline was perfect. The enthusiasm and patriotism of our men superb. Hark ! Listen ! [ Gallophig of a horse is heard. Carlton. A galloping horse ! [Sentry is heard challenging. Sir Montagu. Who is it ? Carew. \^As soiuids get nearer.'\ I believe — yes — no— ^ yes it's Major Kildare, of your own regiment, Rivers. Sir Montagu. Ah ! Of course he's arrived in the nick of time with reinforcements. Rivers. Reinforcements ! What reinforcements ? Carew. Here lie is. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVEKXOR i 45 KiLDARE. \Who rushes in at back?[ I beg your pardon, sir, but where is Captain Rivers ? Oh 1 there you are ; you — you Sir Montagu. Kildare, what is the matter ? KiLDARE, Matter, sir ? I come here to reinforce Captain Rivers, and, by all the powers, if he doesn't fire volleys at me 1 Carlton. What ? Were you the enemy ? Rivers. I assure you, sir, I didn't know. We thought you were Kildare. Thought, sir? A soldier should never think I \A third volley is heard.'] Ah 1 you're at it again 1 Stop 'em, sir, stop 'em I [Exit Rivers. Sir Montagu. Carew, the military arrangements being some- 146 J/IS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR what imperfect, not to say involved, I must ask you to go to the front and bring me absolutely reliable information. Carew, I am ready, sir. \A bugle soumls the " Cease Jire'* Ethei.. \l'hro7t.iing her anus round Carew's neck^ No, no, Charles I Carlton. Ethel I Mrs. Bolingbroke. [y?w«^.] My child 1 Stella. What is this ? Sir Montagu <7//r/ Baverstock. What is this ? Ethel. This ? That he is going to face the enemy, and I love him 1 We are engaged 1 All. What I jnS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERXOR 147 Carkw. It is true, sir. \Tfics to re/case Iiiinself^ Darling, release me. Ethki., \_Qi{ite overcome with emotion. \ (!harles 1 Carkw . \.Bravelyi\ Sweetheart, lo\e is our guide \\\ days of peace, but duty is our pioneer to-night. Ethel. \SiTiking on her knees?^ My hero ! [Carew kisses her hand and rushes out heroic- ally. Stella. \To Carlton.] Henry, I see, I feel, I know that you, too, are going to the front. Carlton. Oh no! On the contrary, I do not intend t«< desert my future wife. Stella. My true hearted Englishman ! {^Falls in his arms.~\ ,148 HIS EXCELLENCY TJIE GOVERNOR Mrs. BoLlNGBROKE. \Amazed^^ I demand a solution of this mon- strous exhibition. Carlton, Slie is joining the family, Honoria. Oblige me by kissing her. Stella. My sister 1 [Mrs. Bolingbroke is so overwhelmed with surprise that she submits to a kiss jrom Stella. Mrs. Bolingbroke. I have done it, but never again, [Collapses on couch. Carlton. It's terrible to think that hundreds have been killed. Kildare. That is a slight exaggeration. One bullet hit the ammunition-cart mule. Stella. No one dead ? Kildare. No, nor even wounded. HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR i 4y Carlton. You see, their rifles are of the new pattern. [Sentry is heard challenging. KiLDARE. There's some one else galloping up. Carlton. Who is it ? Sir Montagu. Bless my soul ! Fresh complications I ♦ Kildare. It's Carew returning. Carew enters hurriedly and out of breath. Carew. An orderly has galloped up with the news that the rising is over. In fact, it never took place. ' [Ethel rushes to him. All. Never took place ? Sir Montagu. Turn up the lights. 150 HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR Carew. It seems, sir, the natives, hearing Mr. Carlton had arrived as an emissary of the Great White Queen, decided to assemble as a tribute of loyalty. It was night, and, under the belief that the demon- stration was hostile, the troops were called out and opened fire. Sir Montagu. Good heavens ! Carew. But, fortunately, the General explained that our fire had merely been a salute in Mr. Carlton's honour, and, incredible as it may seem, this expla- nation was accepted. Sir Montagu. This is an immense relief. Carlton. We now perceive the advantage of uncompromis- ing firearms. I shall not fail. Sir Montagu, to re- port your able statesmanship to the proper quarter. Sir Montagu. I have but done my duty, and your co-operation has been of the greatest assistance. n/S KXCKIJ.EXCY /•///•; GOJ'ERXOR i^i Carlton. Cable to Downing Street that, despite ill-health, I Avas able to devote my energies to the suppression of the rebellion. \A Band is heard i/i the distance playing a rousing march. Sir Montagu. [ With deep nte/anch(dy.'\ Baverstock ! Baverstock. \^DejectedIy.'\ Sir ! — - Sir Montagu. We'll hack down the aloes to-morrow. \Cheering is heard in distance. Baverstock. Yes, sir. Carlton. Stella, look, our defenders ! \They are looking at the Soldiers, who are heard inarching, amid cheers. Stklla. Brave fellows! Brave fellows I 'A a 152 J/j'S EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR V Carew. Ethel, listen ! Our wedding march. Ethel. ' My soldier husband ! [Ethel and Carew embrace fervently, as do Carlton and Stella. Loud cheering and crash from the Band as THE CURTAIN FALLS. 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