■+ ' # THE RENDEZVOUS: AN OPERETTA, l\\ ©itf act, BY RICHARD AYTON. PRINTED FROM THE ACTING COPY, WITH REMARKS, BIOGRAPHICAL AND CRITICAL, BY D.— G. To which are added, A DESCRIPTION OF THE COSTUME, —CAST OF THE CHARACTERS — ENTRANCES AND EXITS, — RELATIVS POSITIONS OF THE PERFORMERS ON THE STAGE, AND THE WHOLE OF THE STAGE BUSINESS, As performed at the THEATRES ROYAL, LONDON. EMBELLISHED WITH A FINE ENGRAVING, By Mr. Bonner, from a Drawing, taken ir. the Theatre by Mr. R. Cruikshank. LONDON. G. H. DAVIDSON, PETER'S HILL, DOCTORS’ COMMON” BETWEEN ST. PAUL'S AND UPPER THAMES STR pT . i¥J //’!.<;£► 6* iro A E ' 4> J ‘ • 'l ;t* 'AJt'tSpj IK A ,. t.i *1 n:\ f u i a :• :• . - , < iAvr* - t a no M\ 3 , . : | ■ iM R- Cruiiihank, >el. G.' W. Bonnet, Sc. €f)e Kentrejbaus. Quake and Sii on. Thieves ! —Murder!—Blood !—Help !—Oh ! oh ! sitt /. Scene % REMARKS. 5Tf)e Hmtrriboits It is not always the case that those ladies whose faces are of pecu¬ liar length nd gravity, and whose deportment carries with it a Qua¬ ker-like primness— a noli-me-tangere stateliness and solemnity, are the most invulnerable in affairs of love. A pinched cap and a poke bonnet are ■ o indications that the wearer is insensible to the charms of Cupid. On the other hand, a chaste heart is often coupled with a smi ing countenance. If we grant that— “ True piety is cheerful as the day,” we must surely admit that a lively air is not incompatible with real virtue r u Prudence you’d think was more than Dian chaste. And judge few men could suit her maiden taste; So cold her eye, with justice you might gwear. Love, tender Love, could never enter there : O, strange reverse ! beneath that artful guise, Some wicked thoughts intrude, and mischief flies 1”• We have a rooted dislike to hypocrisy and pretence. No one as - sumes that which he already possesses. A strutting is always an insignificant personage;—your pigmy would be thought a giant;— •nd the nymph who is reasonably dubious of her own virtue, is sure to put on an extra garb of sanctity to take in the knowing ones. The ingenious author of the Rendezvous has illustrated this idea with some pleasantry. He h? > shown that a young lady, whose man¬ ners are most amiably repuh ve, can fall in love like the veriest mad¬ cap, who is content to be frolicsome and agreeable. Nay, he has had the unpardonab l e effrontery to declare, that, in love-matters, all wo¬ men arc the same , ard that it only requires “ a closet a-piece*■ to prove them so! This is a “ bold vord, Master Filch.’* We, who have a dutiful re¬ gard for the good opinion of the ladies, and are moreover ambitious of leading a quiet life, shall not enter into so delicate a controversy* If, as the poet sings, “ Love is Heaven, and Heaven is Love,** It is but natural that every piously-disposed young lady, whether prude or coquette, should desire to go to heaven with all convenient spgfcd, as a c< nsummation devoutly to be wished ; and take the road that she SpnMdeted the readiest and most expedient. There is mG.h whimsical contrivance in this farce. Of bustle it possesses a more that; ordinary share—a quality that is sure to tell *• *' Wom^n-” A. satire. A3 6 REMARKS. with modern audiences, who go to see rather than to hear. The ad¬ ventures of the table and the closets are well conducted • 'and the »tory „ .old so naturally, that we conceive it might have happened without offering any particular violence to onr credulity * There is also some attempt at novelty of character. Lncretia fa ve.> different sort of lady to the Roman matron!) is the Prudence we have already described. Of Sophia we may say " Now view the contrast in Clarissa's air, Light, easy, cheerful, spruce, and debonnaire! Her laughing eye, soft smile, at once bespeak Love warms her heart, and biushes in her cheek I” * Both ladies are equally desirous to entrap— « That meek, rejected, darling creature— man!” The one does it as if conscious that her inclination was leading hei astray ; the other, as if she were only labouring in her vocation A third is opportunely introduced in the person of Rose , the waiting maid, and this female trio, with the assistance of those two especial cowards. Quake and Simon, pass, away an agreeable hour. ^ Miss Kelly gave a lively picture of the Hoyden. Her bridline and curvetting, her hopes and fears when she approaches her aw fid cedent "llL V f lhe gentleman , were ex¬ cellent. Mrs- Chatterley, as the immaculate Lucretia, was as Dr Johnson said of himself, after his play was damned, " firm as the mo^ nu merit. She lifted the head, and lied with the utmost self-posses- “ <) ’ deco,nm ’ and ’ when Sophia, with great naive#, blurts out, f.infi k cousin," she had all the apparatus for bnt and > lia d the bold dragoon been at her elbow she had probably gone off , in more senses than one. Harley and Chatterley were sufficiently cowardly and comical in Simon and Quake; they had, in truth, hearts in their bellies no bigger than pins heads. Keeley and Bennett are far behind their predecessors in ; Keeley wants another face or two for extraordinary occasions fe tu 5pr l?) ,t y tones to enliven the eternal monotony of his UWe ‘.bey did ^ PWt a “ d Mr ‘ Salter had ,iMle *° do * b “‘ ">“« D-G CTojJtutne. QUAKE.—Dark old man's suit, drab great coat, high boots, three* cornered hat. BOLDING.—Military coat, white trousers, boots, hat and feather*, •word. ' < . £ ; CHARLES.—Blue undress frock-coat, white trousers, boots, hat, &c. • SIMON.—Dark livery (square cut), bound with yellow, worsted stockings, high boots, three-cornered hat, and handkerchief over it. SMART.—Short blue livery jacket, with yellow facings, breeches and top-boots, hat, with binding and cockade. I.UCRETIA.— Plain neat white muslin dress. SOPHIA.—Ditto, with gay riband on waist. ROSE.—Slate coloured skirt, light body, and apron. . STAGE DIRECTIONS. The Conductors of this work print no Plays but those which they have seen acted. I he Stage Directions are given from their own personal observations, during the most recent performances. EXi^S and ENTRANCES. R. means Right ; L. Left; D. F . Door in Flat ; R. D. Right Door ; L. D. Left Door; S. E. Second Entrance; U. E. Upper Entrance; M. D. Middle Door. . RELATIVE POSITIONS. • • ' » 1 v • R. means Right-; L. Left; C. Centre ; R. C. Right of Centre; L. C. Left of Centre. R. RC. C. LC. L. V The Reader i« supposed to be on the Stage, facing the Audience . Cast of the Characters, as performed at the Theatres Royal, London • «« •fi U s ee v n 3 U 3 rs a o £ >» ee * © ■c u ce X •6 V ee I c e £ IT *: 8 a o *-» 3 £ e e • .£ 1 CO s ~ M o v s *• » >% to 4/ 3 a PS £ * S- - u -a UJ 3 |25 U s • a o co *- ►> -5 Sin = •- £." « s O ^ CO • ® « cn cc «o S S 3 •k • I • •c 0 <§• • £- "S 42 8 5 3 ee >% £ • u w «e C* 00 g o 5 0> ■w •2 ►a* fee « s • ►n CC W ft a <£ • u • u S • u S u £ « ^ o w h; CO 00 • ee to ec ■" •— la S S S B* oo w ao sj, 2 O * «ei « •s * be a, sr ^ ftj c n >» a> •W +■> CC JC Q .8 T3 ee O X >! Js| j- J- L. . >» m * *> « 5 5 5 * « cn on s s s to 0» •se :g ^ | k 2 53 5 § O*^ O tc «? 4) V 42 8 53 •« -3* a. «o $« * SCENE—The Country House of Quake, near London THE RENDEZVOUS. ACT I. SCENE I.— A Room in Quake's Country House , near London. Enter Simon, r. Sim. (r.) [Sdlus.~\ And he's absolutely going to town at this time of night!—The man’s mad !—he hasn’t a grain of common sense left. And I am to go aud be murdered with him, just for the sake of keeping him company,— and for such wages as I receive. Oh ! 'tis quite out of the way. [CYosses to L. Enter Quake, r. Qua. Well, Simon, is every thing ready for our jour¬ ney ? • Sim. (l.) Yes, sir, the horses are saddled,—but, bless ns, you don’t think of travelling to-night, sir Qua. And why not, pray ? Sim. Do you know what o'clock it is, sir? Qua. Why, what’s the matter with you, booby? What are you afraid off Sim. Lord, sir, we are but flesh and blood, you know, after *11, and there can be but little doubt of what would be the fate of two poor sinners alone on the heath in the dark. Qua. "Well, Simon, well—We can die but once. Sim. True, sir ; therefore, better not be in a hurry to try that once. —Bless you, a man, to venture on that heath after sunset, should have twenty lives ! Qua. Pshaw, you are a coward ! Sim. Ah ! there’s nothing to make one courageous !— If it were quite safe, indeed—Couldn't you go in the morning, sir ? Qua. No, my business is urgent, and I must be in town to-night. Sim. Well, sir, death will be our portion, that's all*—■ 10 THE RENDEZVOUS. [ACT I. We shall both be barbarously murdered, if that be your pleasure. Qua. [Symptoms of fear showing themselves through his cat'elessness.] —Death !—Nonsense !—1 tell you there’s nothing to tear. Come hither, Simon—Murders—pooh, pooh !— I say, Simon,—you don’t know what I’m going to town about, I suppose ? Sim . No, sir, not I. Qua. I’ll be sworn you don’t—no, no—I’ve been too close for that, I fancy. Now remember, Simon, it’s a gr^at secret, and you must keep it snug. Sim. Depend upon that, sir. Qua. You must know then, Simon, that I have got a husband for my daughter, and another for my niece;—the whole atfair is to be settled to-night. Sim. Hell, I declare if I didn’t think so—you’re very lucky, sir—marvellously lucky, indeed ; though, if I am not mistaken, the ladies have got a husband a-piece for th euiscivea. '• ?;! ! > ,«•.* r j.’ v ic' • n .ctn Qua. W hat’s that you say, you impudent varlet? Sim. Nay, sir—it is only as I suspect— Qua. Suspect!—Slanderer I—and my daughter Lucre- tia, too, the most dutiful child in tk Q world! . Sim. Just as you think proper, sir. Qua. II ever 1 hear you again—- Sim. Fray, sir ; be pacilied—I’ve quite done; but hadn’t we better be moving, if we are to go ? Qua. Yes, directly—they get husbands !—Here, Rose, Rose !—Murders !—Ridiculous ! Enter Rose, r. Rose. Did you call, sir ? Qua. Go, Rose, and tell my daughter and my niece, that I w ish to speak with them before I go. [Exit Rose , r. —But, Simon, do you actually think that the heath is not safe ? Sim. Do I, sir?—My heart turns cold at the bare thought of it. Qua. [Aside.] Lord ha’mercy, if he should be right— [To him .J Come, come, pluck up a spirit, man — Re¬ member, I shall be with you—I never liked that infernal heath, I must confess.— [Aside, Enter Lucretia, Sophia, and Rose, r. Luc. (l.) So, papa, you’re going? THE RENDEZVOUS. 11 SCENE 1.] Soph, (r.) What, uncle, you’re leaving us, then ? Qua. (a.) A ?s, lasses, I must be gone—time presses— but I shail be l ack to-morrow—and with such a present a-piece for you, my chicks ! Luc. [Com s down.'] (l.) What is it, papa ? Soph. Do t 11 us, there’s a good uncle ! Qua. No, u >—time enough—wait till to-morrow. Soph. Is it any thing to eat, uncle? Qua. Wait, I say, and see; now be good girls in my absence. Lucretia, I leave Sophia, and my whole house¬ hold, in your charge ; and, from your gravity and good sense, I have no doubt that all will be kept in proper order. Luc. Certainly, papa; you may rely upon my discretion. Qua. That I may, I’m sure; and you, simpleton [To Sophia ], don’t run into mischief: and do as you are bid. Soph. No, that I won’t, uncle ! Qua. Now, good bye, then, my dears; be sure to be good.—Let the doors be all fastened betimes, and early to bed.—Good bye, my darlings. [Kisses them . Luc. Good bye, papa. Soph. A pleasant journey to you, uncle. [Exit Quake , followed by Lucretia , Sophia , X . and Simon, l. Rose . (c .) [So/a.] Now, what is the meaning of all this? I can’t make it out. These young ladies, w T ho have so often pretended to be frightened out of their wits at being left alone in the house, now so happy to see my master leave them! There must be some intrigue at the bottom of it—and yet it’s impossible : Miss Sophia is innocence itself; and, as for Miss Lucretia, she’s far too proud and discreet to love anv body but herself. •; •, ♦ Enter Sophia, running in, with anxious joy in her face , R. Soph, (r.) Ah, Rose, I’m glad you’re alone—I’ve got such a deal to tell you— Rose. What, I suppose you’re for robbing the orchard, or rifling the preserves, now your uncle’s out of the way —hey, miss ? Soph. No, no, I want your opinion, Rose— Rose. Well, miss, it’s always very much at your ser¬ vice. A little goosecap—now w ill all this preparation lead only to some childish plaything. [Aside. ^ Soph. Do you think, Rose, there can be any harm im** THE RENDEZVOUS. 2 [act i« n—hang it, I'm in such a pother, I don't know how to jegin— Rose. My good young lady, what is it that you want? Do pray let us know. Soph. Well, then, Rose, should you think there was any harm in my having a friend ? Rose. What, miss !—I don’t understand you. Soph. I mean, that if an agreeable, discreet, good- looking person— Rose. [Aside.'} Is it possible !—here’s simplicity and innocence!— [To her.} May I ask, miss, if peradven¬ ture you have a lover ? Soph. Law, Rose, for shame !—I didn’t say so— Rose. Who is this good-looking person, then ? Soph. Only a sort of acquaintance—a very particular friend. Rose. Yes, yes ; I perceive the distinction, miss—and pray, from whence does this particular friend come? Soph. Why, you remember that, when I became an orphan, I was sent to live with an old aunt of mine. Now r it so happened, that in the next house, there lived a young man— Rose. A young man ! Soph . Yes ; his name’s Charles. Isn't it a pretty name, Rose ? Rose. Very pretty, indeed, miss. Soph. Ah! you are so kind and considerate. Rose ; and then the fact is—Charles happens just now to be in this neighbourhood. Rose. In this neighbourhood ! Soph. Yes, he is; and sometimes, I assure you, he is kind enough to walk in our garden. Rose. Well, now that's very civil, I must say. Soph. Bless you, he’ll do more for me than that, a great deal. And now, my dear Rose, if you like, you may do me such a favour—I’m sure you can—you can help me to see him, and nobody will know any thing about it. Rose. [Aside.} Here’s innocence again !— [To her} — But how am I to manage this, miss? Soph. Why, l w 7 as thinking, that if you would break the matter to my consin, Lucretia, she might possibly al¬ low him to come and sup with us. Rose, Break it to your cousin !—you don’t think of suck a thing—to your cousin 1—w ho, you know, is a pat¬ tern of all that is prudent and discreet —Impossible 1 flfCENE I.] THE RENDEZVOUS. IS Sovh. Oh, yes, you may—you can put the thing in a certain wav—give it a sort of turn—you are much cleverer than I am, Rose—now do speak to her—there 3 a dear good girl; you'll not repent it, I can tell you— Charles will give you a pocket lull of money. Heavens . here she comes—now do speak—pray do—1 daren t face her for the life of me— remember, Rose, I rely upon you . [Exit iSopnia y R. D. Rose. [Sola.-] I speak to her !-not for the world ! Oh, no, she's a great deal too upright for me. [Going. j 1 11 be missing. Enter Lucretia, l. Luc. Rose Rose . Yes, miss. , . , , ... Luc. Stay where you are—I wish to speak with you I have something of consequence to say to you. Rose. I am always ready, miss, to attend to you Luc. [With great gravity.] But, before I say any thing, let me warn you not to draw any impertinent inferences from what I shall disclose. Rose. Why should you suspect me, miss? Luc . I know that servants are too ready to think ill ot their betters. T t ~ Rose. Indeed, miss, you quite astonish me : I have al¬ ways felt the highest respect for you. Luc. Why, yes, I fancy I have always given you rea¬ son for so doing ; but, on this occasion, I desire that you will have the highest possible opinion of me. Rose. There can be no fear of it, miss. Luc. Without further preface, then, you must know, that a short time ago, I became acquainted with a per¬ son who is anxious to see me just now, and will, 1 ima- gine, be here this evening. , w __ B Rose. Whenever she pleases, miss, I shall be in the way. Luc. The gentleman, perhaps— { Rose . The gentleman, miss ! Luc. Yes; he’s a perfect gentleman, I assure you. Rose. [ Aside.] Why, this is more astonishing than the innocent Miss Sophia.—Ah! we’re all alike, that s quite Luc. He wishes most particularly to see me, but we must be circumspect, Rose-a woman should never be without circumspection. , - . Rose. No, miss, she should take care never to be found out. B 14 THE RENDEZVOUS. * “*• f ACT I. persons. The W ° rld ’ y ° a k "° W ’ “ t0 ° ap, ‘° 8us P ect young gentlema^Vname? and ^"n>«stIy._Pray, what is the i; Boldin g. a captain in the army, and a very de- hghtful young man, I assure you—brave—generous— Rose. \ es , miss-all that you wish him to be, no doubt. Luc. .He is, indeed ; but notwithstanding, as I wish to avoid the scandal that might fall upon a secret inter¬ view, I have been thinking— Rose. T understand, miss ; it occurs to you, as my mas- m,v^ appens *°a be 0 ? t ° f the way > that the gentleman might come and sup here. Luc. Why, upon my word, Rose, I see no kind of in¬ convenience in such an arrangement—but— [Hesitates'] come hither, Rose. [ Rose goes close to her.l My cou¬ sin seems very fond of you, Rose. Rose. Yes, miss, I’m happy to think she is. Luc. She’s a nice girl. Rose. Oh, quite charming ! pi eton A liUle chiJdish > Ul0u g h > Rose; a bit of a sim Rose. So young, you know, miss— \ ^ UC ‘ T du . st S0 i tlierefor e we must be upon our guard a litt.e. In her thoughtless gaiety she might, you know, say something—that my father— " * Rose. Yes, miss, I understand. Luc. So, it you could explain to her the nature of the thmg I mean just—in a delicate kind of way—open her eyes a little— Rose. Who, I, miss? Not for the world. No, indeed you must excuse me—I can’t think of such a thing Luc. And, pray, why not ? Rom. What, that pretty innocent! Give her ideas_ corrupt her mind!—I’d die first—no, you must speak to her yourself, miss. Luc. Why, you perverse hussy, how dare you misun¬ derstand me m this manner ? Rose. No, indeed, miss, I can’t think of it; you’d far better speak to her yourself—and here she conies_I’ll leave you together. Enter Sophia, r. Soph. [Aside to Rose.] Well, Rose, what does she say f Have you spoken ? J THE RENDEZVOUS. 15 SCENE I.] Rose. [Aside to Sophia.'] Heavens and earth ! spoken! I'd sooner speak to the grand Turk. Soph, (r.) [Aside.] Ah ! poor Charles—I am sure lean never bring myself to break it out to her.—How awful she looks ! Luc. (l.) [Aside.] Now, does this foolish girl embar¬ rass me more than twenty women of sense could. How shall I manage her ? Rose. [Aside.] A notable pair. Ah! if they knew how safely they might trust one another ! [Exit Rose , r. [Lucretia and Sophia stand for some time, playing with their finger s, in awkward silence. Luc . Sophia—hem! hem ! Soph. Did you speak, cousin ? Luc. Hem !—Do you think, Sophia—hem! should you be surprised—but no matter—no matter. [Aside.] I know not how to trust her. Soph. [After a pause.] Cousin—hem !—hem !—I was going to ask you—hem ! [Aside.] 1 shall sink before her. Luc. So, Sophia, we are to sup alone to-night ? Soph. Yes, cousin, it seems so—and it’s not very agreeable, I think. Luc . No, indeed, in a lone house like this, with only women. Shouldn’t you think it safer, Sophia, if we had a companion—a protector ? Soph. Oh law ! yes—a young man, cousin. Luc. What’s that you say, miss? [Aside.] A giddy simpleton, I knew how she’d run away with the first hint. Soph. Would there be such a very great objection, then, cousin ? Luc. How dare you put such a question ? Soph. [Aside.] The proud haughty thing, she won't hear a word. Luc. What, then, Sophia, should you imagine— Soph. No, cousin—no—I shouldn’t imagine— [Aside.] —She suspects me, and wants to coax my secret out of me— Luc. Would you, let me ask, think of permitting— Soph. No—no—indeed, cousin, I would not permit it. [Aside]. Ah ! poor Charles, he won’t come, I see. Luc. [Aside.] The fool,—I must give up the scheme, I believe— [To her.] I wish to know, Sophia—would you venture to receive a young man in the absence of your uncle ? Soph. No, cousin, I would not—no indeed—I would — d 2 THE RENDEZVOUS. 16 [act I. Dot receive him. [Aside.'] Ah! it's all over! just as I thought. Luc. [Aside.] An idiot—I can make nothing of her. Soph. We shall sup alone, then, cousin? Luc. [Very harshly.] Yes! Soph, (l.) [Aside. J A sour, ill-tempered creaturb! Luc. A stupid, impenetrable dolt! Enter Rose, r., crosses behina to c. Rose. [Aside.] What, not acquainted yet? [Aside to Lucretia.] Well, miss, what success? Luc. [Aside to Rose.] The girl's a perfect fool! Rose. [Aside to Lucretia.] Never mind, let him come, and leave the rest to me. Luc. (l.) [Aside to Rose.] Are you serious ? Rose. [Aside to Lucretia.] Rely on me, but don’t let him show himself till supper-time. Luc. Very good. Rose. [Aside to Sophia .] Well, miss,—inexorable, I suppose T Soph. [Aside to Rose.] Oh, yes—poor Charles will drown himself. Rose. [Aside to Sophia.] Go and let him in—I’ll manage it all for you. Soph. Will you? Rose. [Aside to Sophia.] Yes; but let him conceal himself till we meet at supper. Soph. [Aside to Rose.] Oh, yes, yes,—how happy I am! Rose. [Aloud.] Ladies, a thought has just come into my head : as my master has taken himself pleasuring to London, suppose we have a merry-making here?—I'm for a cheerful supper. A • ' 1 Luc. An excellent notion ! ' Soph. An admirable thought, indeed ! Rose. Well, leave the management of it to me—I shall contrive it to your satisfaction, I dare say. Luc. Do what you please, Rose. . Soph. Yes, just what you please, Rose. Rose. [Aside to Lucretia. J I thought I observed him just now, close to the little gate. Luc. Good ; I’ll go to him. Rose* [To Sophia, aside.] I just saw a young man un¬ der your window. Soph . [Aside to Rose .j That’s he, depend upon it. SCENE II.] THE RENDEZVOUS. 17 Luc. Well, Sophia, love. 1 must leave you for a while —remember our merry-making. Soph. That I will. [Aside to Rose , as she is going.'] Charles will be pretty hungry, 1 dare say. [Exit, r. l'ose. Yes, yes, there shall be enough for him. Li'c. [Aside to Rose , as she is going.] Rose ! Captain Bolding will like something nice, perhaps. Rose. I’ll not forget him, miss. [Exit Lucretia , l. Rose. [Sola.] Ah! my dear young mistresses ! We should do any thing but reproach one another—I’ll bring them all together at once, and let the innocent complain. [Exit, L. SCENE IT.—A Saloon—at the bottom a door , the com - mon entrance—on the right side , a door leading to the chamber of Quake—on the left opposite to it a door lead¬ ing to the chamber of the ladies—on each side in the fore-scene , a closet—to the right , near the closet , a window opening into a garden—a table covered with green baize in the room , c., and three chairs. Enter Sophia (r.) with a lighted candle , and Charles cautiously, talking low. Soph, (l.) My dear Charles, I'm afraid you’re sadly tired with waiting so long. Cha. (r.) Mention it not, Love; we must submit to cir¬ cumstances—But, dearest Sophia— Soph. Hush ! we shall be surprised—Rose is going to speak to my cousin—Hark !—You must hide yourself till supper-time. Cha. Till supr»er-time ? Oh, impossible ! Soph. You muo , I say ; come, get into this closet, and don't open it till I call. Cha. Well, I’ll obey you in every thing—but, my dear girl— Soph. Hush! they are coming—get in.— [Charles crosses , i ]—get in Charles enters the closet to the left] —- it's my cousin—be quite still—Goodbye, don’t come out till I tell you, there’s a good boy! bless his pretty face ! [Exit Sophia , r. with candle • Enter Lucretia with candle, and Bolding, l. Luc. Tread softly, Bolding, we must be cautious — you must hide yourself in one of these closets till Rose has settleJ how we are tc introduce you at supper. n 3 18 THE RENDEZVOUS. [ACT I Bold . You'll hide with me, Lucretia ? Luc . No, no—come, quick—jump into your box. [Bolding tries to open the closet in which Charles is. l. Bold. It won’t open. Luc. Try the other, then—you’ll shut yourself in, and wait till I return. [Bolding enters closet , r. Bold, Be speedy, dearest—moments will be hours till 1 see you. Luc, There, shut the door—Adieu! [He opens and shuts the door often to Iciss his hand to her .] What a charm¬ ing fellow he is! [Exit Lucretia, with candle , l. The stage becomes dark. Enter Smart, through the window , r. Smart. There,—safely housed again—Rose! Rose! The little jade, she’s not in the way—Hush ! somebody’s coming—it may not be she—-now where to hide myself till she comes. [Tries to open the closets .] The devil! all fast—Gad, but l must stow myself away somewhere, for if the young ladies—Eh! the table—yes, I’ve no other shelter—I may be poking my head into a pretty kind of scrape here—but what are a little danger and suffering to a man in love ? AIR— Smart . Of a moment of pain Let no lover complain : It but gives him new zest When his hour is bless’d. Like a true gallant, here I’ll watch for my dear, And not blame the delay Which still keeps her away ; 'Tis love’s lot, as it burns, To waver by turns Between pleasure and care, Between hope and despair : But of moments of pain, Let no lover complain ; They but give him new zest When his hour is bless'd—• Quick—quick then to my secret lair, Here patiently I’ll take my seat. [Gets under the table—*the baize not reaching low enough down to conceal him from the audience • . ' SCENE 11-] THE RENDEZVOUS. 19 ■ J .might have found a softer chair, ] Vut every thing in love is 3 vveet. [Ai this moment Charles and Bolding open the doors oj \ ,t their closets , and pop out their heads. Cha. Si ohia, how she keeps me here ! Bold. Li cretia, how she keeps me here. Both. Bi t hush, let me restrain my heart; All Three For every thing in love is sweet. Yes, every thing in love is sweet. TRIO.— Renewal of the Air. Of a moment of pain Let no lover complain ; It but gives him new zest, When his hour is bless’d— Like a true gallant, here I will watch for my dear, &c. &c. &c. Bold. [ Coming out of kis closet ] I'll venture to recon¬ noitre a little, though 1 —Airs quiet Smart. [Aside.] Hey, who the devil are you ? Cha. [Coining out of his closet .] Can she have forgot¬ ten me ? I’ll venture out a little, at all events. Smart. [Aside.] What—another ! Upon my soul, I begin to feel a little awkward here. [Bolding and Charles pace about , till they come abruptly upon one another, face to face. Bold. (L.) Who are you, sir? Cha. (r.) And you, sir? Bold. Would he presume to address — r j** / * Cha. Dare he venture to aspire— [Aside* Bold. Speak, sir. What is your business here ? Cha. That will I tell to no man. Bold. By Jupiter, but you shall— [Draws las sword. J —Come, sir, explain, or fly instantly. Cha. What, sir, do you think to frighten me Bold. I mean at least not to be trifled with—[Ad- r ances upon him.]— Come, sir, depart—quick—away with you! „ , . , Cha. [Retreating round the table ] Hey—what—why —d—mnation ! What do you mean, sir ? The devil take the fellow. , , , [Pops into the closet in wkicn Bolding was, and shuts himself in, R. 20 THE RENDEZVOUS. [ACT I, Bold. Curse the rascal!—he has got into my closet. [ Voices heard without.] Confusion!—We’ve alarmed the whole house —I must mind myself, then. [Runs into the closet in which Charles was, l. Smart . A pretty sort of adventure this!—We shall all be thrown into a horse-pond together, I’ve no doubt. Enter Sophia, with a lighted candle, r. •» m d . < , ^ i %d «• * * , | •», i i Stage becomes light. Soph. All’s ready, Rose says; so now, my poor Charles, you shall be released from your imprisonment. [Goes close to the closet ( l. ) in which Charles was.] Come—you may come out—come, I say—[S/?e taps.] Can he be asleep? Smart. [Aside.] The wrong box, I suspect, missie— Soph. Why don’t you come out?—It’s I. Bold. [Showing himself.] Here am I —[ Sophia starts back at the sight, of him, and screams aloud.] — By heavens! not Lucretia ! [Retreats into his closet • Soph. Help! — Murder! —Thieves !—Cousin!—Rose ! help! Enter Lucretia and Rose, with a candle, l. Luc. Sophia, child what’s the matter ? Rose. [Co7?*es down , r.] Are you ill, miss? Soph. There's a thief in the cupboard ! Luc . Be silent, then. [Aside.] The prying little fool:—she has seen Bolding, no doubt. Rose. [To Soph.] Compose yourself, pray. [Puts candle on table, r. Luc. It must be a mistake. Soph. Oh no, no, no—we shall all be murdered ! [Lucretia taps at the closet (k.) in ivhich Bolding was , unseen bp Sopha, and whispers — ** Bolding, are you there ?”— Charles shows himself, when she runs back with a loud scream. Soph. What, another there, too ? Luc. Yes, as I live. Oh, what will become of us ? Rose. Stay, stay, you must both be mistaken. Let me see —[Goes to the closet, (r.) in which Charles is, and knocks at it. —Mr. Thief, are you there ? If you are a man, show your¬ self— [Charles pops out his head]. —Oh, ho! Mr. House¬ breaker !— [Takes hold of him.] —Come along ! THE RENDEZVOUS. 21 SCENE II.J Cha. [Ligc back.~\ No,, no, be quiet. What are you about? Rose. Comt, I say ; Miss Sophia, allow me to intro¬ duce— Soph. [Asidt ] A mischievous hussy! — m\ cousin will renounce n * for ever. Luc . Sophia, Sophia, [With great severity ] I am shocked at you ! Cha. Madam, allow me to speak. If there is any wrong, it has been of my contriving.—I know that, to a lady of your strict principles and delicacy, such conduct may appear more than suspicious—but I trust that, on inquiry— Rose. Excuse me, sir—we’ve no time for talking now. Haven’t we another robber, ladies ? But I’ll have him out, a wretch ! [ Goes to Bolding’s closet , and knocks .] Come forth, sir, make your appearance. [ Bolding ap¬ pears — she takes hold of him.] Yes, as I live—come along, friend, this way. Miss Lucretia, permit me to— [Cherries and Sophia stare at each other with uplifted hands. Soph. Am I awake? [With mock solemnity .] Lu¬ cretia ! Lucretia !—O, gemini! gemini! [Puts down candle on table. Luo. [Aside.] Oh! that I had never been thought better than other people, or than I am ! Cha. I think, Sophia, we may take heart a little. Soph. O, yes; I’m wonderfully reconciled to myself; indeed, I am proud to imitate my cousin. Bold. Lucretia! Luc. [Aside to him.] Madam—call me madam. Bold. But, my dearest love— Luc. Barbarian, what are you about? Rose. Upon my word, ladies and gentlemen, you seem very shy and distant; and why, pray?—Which of you has any thing to say against the other ?—Come, come, away with all further disguise ; you see what you are—it wants but a closet a-piece to make women alike. Soph. Hey, cousin, is it so ? Luc. Giddy, improvident creature ! Soph. Yes, and you grave and prudential. But you see [Pointing first to Charles , and then to Bolding] it comes to the same thing. Luc. [Brightening up, and taking Sophia by the hand ] I confess it, Sophia, I confess it. 22 THE RENDEZVOUS# [ACT U Rose. No need of confessions, miss; the proofs [Pointing to the gentlemen] stand before you. Luc. Bolding ! Soph. Charles ! [ The lovers embrace . Rose. Ha ! ha! ha ! Now, then, to supper—to sup¬ per—the party’s complete. Gentlemen, why what’s the matter? Why so shy ? Are you, too, afraid to come together ? Bold. [Aside."] What a fool my violence has made of me? [To Charles.] Can you forgive me, sir? An idle jealousy, which appearances- Cha. Your hand, sir. I had precisely the same opi¬ nion of you ; and, had I been armed- Soph. Preserve us !—Are you going to fight? [Crosses to Charles. Cha. No, sweet; we are all friends. Soph. But how came you in that closet, Charles ? Rose. Pray explain it all after supper. I shall have every thing cold with waiting. All. Come, then. [They turn round , and perceive Smart under table ; the la¬ dies scream; Rose hangs her head, and bites her nails . Cha. Why, what’s all this ? Bold. [Touching his sword.] Whence, and who are you, sir? Smart. Pray, sir, be cool. I am a poor devil, who have been sitting with my knees up to my chin for this halt hour under the table, in the hope of seeing- [Rose makes signs to him not to notice her. Luc. So, so—I see. Rose, allow me to introduce— Soph. Permit me to—Ha! ha! ha! Rose. [Running to Smart ] Well, w ith all my heart— we may all join in the laugh. Now, then, to supper without mystery or fear. Soph. There’s nobody else to come, I suppose ? Rose. No, no—one a-piece—but one at a time. Be seated, if you please, and I’ll fetch the supper. [Just as they are about to seat them'+lues, a bell is heard to rbig loudly, L. Rose. Mercy ! What can this be? It’s at the house- gate. Soph. Don't open it, Rose. Luc. Who can it be, and at such an hour ? [Rose runs to the door , I.. Rose. Preserve us all! It’s my master ! SCENE II.] THE RENDEZVOUS, 28 Luc. Mv father! Soph. My uncle lv ' . Rose. Yes, he s coming up with Simon. Luc. What are we to do? Bold. W here can you put us ? Luc. Get into the closets again. Smart. And I—O Lord ! O Lord! Stay, 111 to my “ ld pla r w ’ m gets unde,- the table ; Charles and Boldin ,. hurry L to their closets; the girls run about in conjuswn , and jRose clears away the cloth , £>*c. tyc« Rose. Hark ! they’re upon us. Enter Quake and Simon, in great trepidation , l. Qua. Thank heaven, we are here again ahve ! Lord ha’ mercv ! what business had 1 out at such an ho . Luc My dear papa, what has been the matter ? You 1 Wh.t .» ....I* ! O dear I ° iZ LWSSt be ' But you ,» w so fool-hardy. , Soph. But what has happened, uncle l Qua Ask Simon—ask Simon. Soph. W T ell, Simon, what is it? [Simon groans.] Have y0 Q«'r t Giv*e iTbreath, Simon ; tell it, if you can Sun. Well, ladies, you must know, that we ^bless 20 t quite over the heath, when I saw, and, Lord bless me! not half a mile oft, as 1 live—two men. Qua. O ! the horrid villians \ Sim Well, miss, as soon as I seed them-—urged by ma/ fears, as you will suppose—master, says I, there are n men cominR towards us, and I don’t exactly see what business they can have here. Qua. Cruel, bloody wretches . Sim. Well, I had scarcely spoken, when my mastei turned his horse, set him into a gallop, I as in duty bound, and we never stopped to look behind ub till we found ourselves at our own door. Qua. Ah, it was a marvellous escape! Sim. Ah, it was a marvellous escape ! Luc. But did they speak to you? Sim. No, miss, nor we to them. Qua. No, no ; trust us for^hat. 24 the rendezvous. [aci f. Soph. [Aside.] A couple of cowards • repose! “° W ’ my ChUdreu ’ leave “*~f°r I want Lite. [ Aside .] Heavens! how will he ire t out ? JSft , 1 My Cl ""“- <- slefpT' Y ° U 11 haVC S ° me refreshment - before you me?children.°’ 1 Shal ‘ “ 0t eat a S airl for a month ? Leave Soph. But, Uncle— are Q well festenedT 60 ‘° y ° Ur bed8 ’ a “ d 566 that the ^ors Luc. [Aside.] What will become of him ? a i ~ ! ~ ny Mi «• > Soph. Good night, uncle. [They do not stir. All three turn round from the door Qua ( ! dc '’ memt0 the,r pieces, face to face with Quake ’ move?' ® ood ni S ht . g°od night!—Well, why don’t you move ?-Go along, I say—to bed this instant! * [ e presses them an, they turning up their eyes in des- pair, till they arejuirly pushed out of the room R. Qua. And now, Simon, that we’re all quiet aeain tell y ™' ea ' ly *J*j"k“>osemen you saw were robbers! oim. How can it be doubted, sir ? the Q “ruthon’t’. Si “° n ’ y °“ “* a bit ° f a coward ’ Sim. I only did as you did. mo^ass^redlv 3 ’ p!ps ° h ’ yes > you are a sad coward, ferna? Louse—ifs a'vi'le place. We g6t ° f tbU in ' cuf m ' AyC ’ Sif ’ if we don’t, we shall all have our throats Qua. Pshaw ; you are frightened, man—though it certainly is a very lonesome and disagreeable situation. Sm. [In a voice of terror.'] Sir! j Small gioans v"“ - farmed.] Wlmfs the matter ? aim. Did you hear nothin^? Qua No. ° Qua' A S Vm a , sin ,r> 1 heard a groan ! Qua. A groan .’—What’s a groan ? Sim. A sigh.— Qua. [Trying to disguise his /ear.] A sigh ! Who do IC1NE II. ] THE RENDEZVOUS. 25 pou think is here to sigh ? But this is to live with cowards,— ihere is no end to their fancies—A sigh ; what do you mean ? [Looks warily round the room. At this moment Charles pushes his door gently forward, and closes it again ; Simon observes it with horror. Sim. Sir ! Sir ! and Quake get back to back . Qua. [Terrified.'] What—What—What’s the matter ? Sim. The door of the closet, there, just opened all of itself. [Gets over to r. Qua. You don’t say so—Lord help us !—Where—I don't see it—All’s still—Speak, Simon—Where—You fool, why don’t you speak! [While saying this he keeps his eyes fixed on the closet, where Charles is confined ; while Simon, who has, tm- observed by Quake, turned round, keeps gazing in a state of stupefaction on the door of the opposite closet, which Bolding has pushed forwards—Both fall down flat. Sim . Another door: Sir !—Another—Oh Lord !—Oh Lord! [Quake turns and sees it • Qua. Merciful Heaven ! and so it is—oh dear!—Lord ha* mercy !—run and call help, Simon ! Sim. I haven’t a leg left, sir—it’s all over with me ! Bold . [Pushing his door, l. in fiat moi-e open.] D — n it, this’ll never do ! Lean stay here no longer. [Quake and Simon catch a glimpse of his cocked hat . Qua. We’re dead men to a certainty ! Sim. O, my poor body ! [They both fall to the ground in an agony of fear, in front of the stage, l. c. ; Charles and Bolding come forth, and stand for a moment gazing at each other ; Smart jumps up from under the table. Smart. Now’s our time—the devil take the hindmost! [He pulls the cloth from the table, and throws it over Quake and Simon; Charles and Bolding put chain and table on them ; Smart then runs to the window, R., opens it, and jumps out ; Charles and Bolding follow him; Quake and Simon keep crying out as loudly as terror will allow them. Qua. ) Thieves!—Murder 1—Blood !—Help!—Oh! Sim. S Oh ! [After a pause, Simon ventures to put his head from un¬ der the baize, fyc., and gazes feaifully about the room. Sim. They’re gone, sir. [.Rises on his feet. c 26 THE RENDEZVOUS [ACT I. Qua. How many were there, Simon ? Sim. Seven, I counted. Qua. Seven ! Lord protect us poor miserable wretches! [Gets up. [A knocking is heard at the door , R. ; Quake and Simon again Jail to the ground, C. Qua. We’re lost now, past redemption , Sim. O, Lord, yes!—They’re all coming back again, no doubt, with more to help them. Luc. [ From without .] Father, what is the matter? Soph. [From without.'] Uncle, what are you about? Qua. [Rising ] They’re my children. Run, Simon ; open the door. [Simon totters to the door 9 R. Situ. Are you alone ? Luc. Yes, yes; open the door Enter Lucretia, Sophia, and Rose, with lights , p.. Luc. Lord bless us, papa!—what have you been doing ? Soph. Are you dead, uncle ? Sim. No, miss, but perilously frightened. Qua. [Almost crying.] Ah, my dears, you had well nigh lost me! Death, in the most dreadful form— swords—pistols— Sim. And a cocked-hat that might have frightened the devil! Luc. But whom have you seen ? Qua. The house swarms with assassins. How many were there, Simon ? Sim. Seven stood over us—not to mention those who filed off while we were on the ground. Luc. [Aside to Sophia.] Seven !—Why, wbat can it mean! Soph. [Aside to Lucretia.] I’m thunderstruck ! Luc. And they used violence, you say, papa? Qua. No ; every thing but that. Soph. But how came you on the ground, uncle? Qua. [Confused.] Hey, Simon, how was that ? Sim. The cocked-hat, sir, mortil man could not have stood up against. [A violent ringing heard at house-gate , L. Qua. Preserve us !—What is that ? Sim. They’re all coming again out of the window in at the door. All. Lord ha’ mercy !—What will become of us!— Help! help! THF, RENDEZVOUS. 27 8CENE II.] Qua. Don’t be afraid, Simon ; you shall go first, and I’ll back you. [Bell rings violently , L. ; a loud hallooing heard with • out; Lucretia , Sophia, and Rose crowd behind Quake , taking hold of the skirts of his coat ; Tie seises Ao/ i of Simon, places him in front; while the latter com¬ pletes the line of defence by a chair placed before him. Smart, (l.) [ Without .] Open the door—fear nothing — we’re friends. Rose. [Detaching herself from the group.'] Thank heaven ! it is a friend ; sir, our neighbours are coming to help us. Qua. Will you venture to open the door, Rose ? Rose. Oh yes. sir, without delay. [»S7ie runs out , l. Bold, (l.) [Without.] Take courage, friends. Chas. (l.) [Without.] Your danger’s over. ^Snpk Um * | heavens • That voice ! Enter Rose, l. i' uniting in, followed by Bolding Charles, and Smart. Luc. [Quitting he* father.] Bolding! My dear Bolding! Soph. [Running toicards Charles.] My dear, sweet Charles! [They both throw themselves into the arms of their lovers, while Quake and Simon stand starbtg with stupid wonder at each other. Qua. Are we awake, Simon ? Sim. The devil’s amongst us, sir,—that’s certain. Bold. [To Lucretia.] Be composed, dearest, no harm shall touch you. Cha. [To Sophia.] Look up, Sophia—smile and be happy. . • ‘ V Qua. Very consoling, gentlemen, indeed. Bold. My dear sir, banish all your apprehensions! You are secure—we have routed all the robbers, and saved your lives—but—no thanks, I beseech you—no thanks. Qua. And is it leally to you, gentlemen, that we owe_ Bold. Yes, sir, it is to us that you owe it all—I give you my honour. Qua. Sir, I want words to express my gratitude—but —excuse me, sir, you and the ladies here seem old ac¬ quaintance. Bold. 1 confess, sir, that I have long known and *>ved the incomparable Lucretia. 28 THE RENDEZVOUS. [ACT I. Qua. The devil you have !— [To Charles.] —And you, sir. Soph. And he, sir, has long known and loved the incompar¬ able Sophia. 4 Qua. Why, Lucretia !—Sophia! Audacious hussies. Bold. Be calm, sir; marriages, remember are made in heaven! Qua . W’hat, without my consent? Cha. Doom not those to death, sir, who have saved you from it. . „ ... * Luc. Dear papa! Soph. Kind uncle! Qua [After a pause.] They have saved our lives, it is true, and we owe them much. [Pauses.] Well, let it be so.—-Take 'em, gentlemen, take 'em, and may they never deceive you, as they have deceived me. [The lovers embrace. Smart, And I, sir, one of the heroes to whom you owe your breath—may I not ask for a reward Qua. Name it, and take it. Smart . 'Tis here, sir.— [Takes Rose f s hand.] Qua. Aye, aye 5 empty my house at once: and will nobody \tave poor Simon ? - Sim . No, sir, I'll stay and fight for you another day. Qua. Come, then, gentlemen. Jet’s sup and be merry. And may this spot be the rendezvous of merry faces for many a night to come. • ** DISPOSITION OF* THE CHARACTERS AT THE j. • • ; . t ^ ' FALL OF THE CURTAIN. £ - Rose. Smart. Bold. Luc. Simon. Qua. Soph. Charles. *.] [u f THE END.