Chapter II: Part 2

_Mary._ Who’s that? Somebody just left the house. Who could it have been? It must have been Jarius, on his nightly visit. Sally’s light is still burning in the kitchen. I’ll just pick up my work, and off to bed. Can it be possible that Will forged that check? I don’t believe it. Henry Douglas must have invented that story to frighten me.

_Enter WILL, C., softly._

Poor boy, I wish he were safe home again!

_Will._ Mary--sister!

_Mary._ (_Rushing into his arms._) O, Will, dear Will, is it you at last?

_Will._ Hush! Don’t wake anybody. I wouldn’t be seen by any one but you for the world. You see, I got awful homesick, wanted to have a look at the old home, and, if possible, speak with you. But I don’t want to meet father or mother.

_Mary._ Don’t want to meet them! O, Will, your city life--

_Will._ Is splendid! I’m rising in the world--I am. That’s the place for me. Busy all day, and at night seeing the sights. O, it’s gay! I’m doing well. But I shall never meet father until I am rich enough to say, “I was right, and you were wrong. I should have been on the bench now had I listened to you; but I asserted my rights, went into the world, and have come back rich, powerful, influential.” Ahem. That’s the style in which I shall meet him one of these days.

_Mary._ Will, are you still in the employ of Mr. Douglas?

_Will._ No. I’m on my own account.

_Mary._ O, Heavens! ’tis true, ’tis true!

_Will._ What’s true, Mary?

_Mary._ The forged check.

_Will._ Eh? What forged check?

_Mary._ Henry Douglas told me to-night that you had forged his name to a check for two hundred dollars.

_Will._ ’Tis a lie! an infamous lie!

_Mary._ He said you denied it.

_Will._ We have never spoken concerning a check. I have had nothing to do with his money matters.

_Mary._ But you have parted?

_Will._ Because he wished me to testify falsely in a case in which he was concerned--to perjure myself. I refused; and for that reason, and that alone, we parted. Mary, I may be wild and reckless, but, believe me, I have never committed a crime--never.

_Mary._ I do believe you, Will. ’Tis but another proof of his perfidy.

_Will._ Never mind him, Mary. He’s not worthy of a thought. Tell me of father and mother. Are they well?

_Mary._ Ah, Will, your conduct has made them ten years older. Father will not allow your name to be mentioned, and mother, at his bidding, is silent; but her face is careworn, her step feeble, and the nervous start she gives when the door opens tells how anxiously she awaits your return. You will see her, Will?

_Will._ Not to-night, Mary. In an hour I must be on my way back to the city. Mary, I wish I had not come here. There’s a power in the old house that makes my heart ache, it awakens such memories! And mother, dear soul, how sadly her bright hopes of her boy have been shattered! Though I have dashed into the city, and been swept along by its hurry and whirl, I have often thought of this quiet house, and ached, fairly ached, to feel mother’s arms around my neck, and her goodnight kiss upon my brow. O, Mary, be tender, very tender with her. Don’t let her hear a word against me. Sometimes I think that fierce temptation will overwhelm me, ruin me, body and soul; and that would break her heart.

_Mary._ O, Will, stay with us. Here you are safe from all temptations.

_Will._ Here? Why, Mary, you forget the little brown jug, which first tempted me to drink, which created a thirst, which, fight against as I will, must be quenched.

_Mary._ Ah; but the little brown jug will not tempt you now. Since that day there has been no more brewing of strong drink. Father has abandoned it, and the old jug has been put to a better use.

_Will._ A better use?

_Mary._ Yes. ’Tis now placed in the cupboard in father’s room, and every Saturday night he places in it the sum of money he would have expended for liquor during the week. There’s quite a large sum there.

_Will._ That’s very queer. In father’s cupboard, you say?

_Mary._ Yes. But you do not inquire after Ned.

_Will._ Ned Hartshorn? Is he here still?

_Mary._ Will, are you ignorant of his severe illness? Did not Mr. Douglas tell you?

_Will._ Nothing concerning Ned Hartshorn. I haven’t heard his name before for a year.

_Mary._ Douglas’s deceit again! Will, for a year he has not left the house. That blow with the jug, a year ago, nearly killed him.

_Will._ What! And I knew nothing of it? O, this is terrible! That man is a fiend! He has tried to keep from me all knowledge of you and my family, for what reason I cannot guess. But I will know. Ned Hartshorn nearly killed, and by my hand! I am accursed! Let me fly from this place!

_Mary._ No, no, Will; not now, not now!

_Will._ I will! I must! What right have I to stand beneath this roof? I have defied my father, chosen my own path in life, turned my back upon you all, and have no right to claim kindred here. Let me go, Mary. ’Tis better for all. There’s a curse upon me, a bitter curse. Let me go! let me go!

_Mary._ No, no, brother. (_Clings about his neck._) I will not release you. We love you dearly.

_Will._ Then pray for me, think of me kindly if you can; but part we must. (_Kisses her._) Mary, sister, Heaven bless you! (_Rushes out, C._)

_Mary._ Gone. Poor boy! I tremble for him, swayed by every impulse of his wayward nature, in the midst of temptation; his young life already poisoned by the love of drink, what must be his fate! O, brother, may Heaven send some good angel to reclaim you, and hear a mother’s and a sister’s prayers in your behalf. (_Takes light from table, and exits, R._)

_Door opens, softly. Enter WILL, C._

_Will._ Homeless and friendless! She little knows it has come to that. She little knows that my threat to acquaint my father with his wild doings parted Douglas and I. He marry her! Not if I can prevent it. But what power have I with my stubborn father? Douglas has trumped up his charge of forgery to frighten me and intimidate her. How can I alarm her and father? I came to tell her, and have not spoken a word against him. But I will find a way. Just now I must care for myself. I haven’t had a morsel to eat to-day, so my good mother’s cupboard must provide. If I could only have one good pull at the little brown jug! I forgot. ’Tis now put to better use. Better? There’s money in it; and money will provide both food and shelter. Why not? Haven’t I a right to put my fingers in it? Yes, you have put it to a better use, father, and, with your good leave, I’ll have a pull at it, as in former days. Egad, it’s a capital joke. There’s no crime about it, for it’s all in the family, and one member mustn’t starve while others hoard wealth. I’ll creep into father’s room, secure the jug, help myself, and nobody shall be the wiser. Softly, my boy, softly. (_Creeps out, L._)

_JARIUS appears at window, or door, C._

_Jarius._ Consarn it! somebody’s been sneaking round this house for the last half hour. Wonder if he’s arter Sally! (_Enters window, or door._) Blamed if I ain’t going to know what it’s all about! If it’s a thief, then all I’ve got to say, there’ll be some spry wrastling around here afore he gits off with much plunder.

_Enter WILL, L., with jug of money._

_Will._ All right. I’ve got it. (_Runs into JARIUS’S arms._)

_Jarius._ (_Seizing him by collar._) Jes’ so. So have I.

_Will._ Ah! Discovered! Who are you, scoundrel?

_Jarius._ Who are you, thief? (_Drags him to moonlight._) Will Nutter!

_Will._ Jarius Jordan!

_Jarius._ Wal, I never! Will Nutter a thief!

_Will._ Thief? ’Tis false.

_Jarius._ (_Snatching jug from him._) Here is the proof. O, Will, young feller, has it come to this?

_Will._ What right have you meddling here? This is my father’s house. Haven’t I a right to pass in and out of it when I please?

_Jarius._ Jes’ so; but not to rob the old man. What right have I to meddle? The right which every honest man should be proud to exercise--the right to battle wrong wherever found. Young feller, you’ve made my heart ache to-night. To see the boy we were all so proud of sneaking out of his father’s house a thief! It’s too bad!

_Will._ Jarius Jordan, once more I tell you I’m no thief.

_Jarius._ Will you tell your father so, when I arouse him, as I mean to?

_Will._ No, no, Jarius; don’t do that. Let me go as I came. Keep the jug, if you please; only let me go.

_Jarius._ Will Nutter, young feller, you’re going to destruction as fast as your legs can carry you. Where’s your pride? Where’s your grand expectations, that you raved so about, a year ago? Why, you’re the meanest of all critters--a thief.

_Will._ That name again?

_Jarius._ Yes; again and again. I ain’t agoin’ to be mealy-mouthed on this subject, anyhow. You see what yer fine friend has brought ye to; for it’s all his work. I’ve watched ye in the city all through yer year of service with him. I’ve seen the temptations spread by him like a spider, and you, poor little fly, walk into them. It all came of his trickery. And now here you are, crawling into the room where your poor mother is sleeping--

_Will._ O, don’t, Jarius; don’t speak of my mother! What would she say to know that her poor boy was a--a--

_Jarius._ Thief! Say it, Will, young feller. Git the bile all out of yer system. Look at yerself as ye are; feel as mean as ye look. You are--

_Will._ A thief! Yes, Jarius, it’s the truth. O, why did I come here? Why add this horror to a life already made wretched by my folly? I never dreamed of this. It was a sudden impulse. I never gave a thought to it. It came upon me unawares. But now I see its wickedness. O, Jarius, why can’t I die? (_Sinks on floor, covers face with hands._) Why can’t I die? I haven’t a friend in the world to care for me now.

_Jarius._ Yes, you have. Look up, Will. I never went back on a feller-critter, good or bad, when in distress, and I ain’t a goin’ to do it now. Look up, young feller. I’ll help you out;

_Will._ Help me? You! Then show me how to help myself. Show me some way to wipe out this disgrace, and I will bless you.

_Jarius._ Listen to me. A year ago, of your own accord, you set out to seek your fortune with Hen Douglas--

_Will._ Yesterday we parted, for his service was too mean for me to perform.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. You’ve had a year of his tuition; will you now take a year of mine?

_Will._ Yours, Jarius?

_Jarius._ Yes, mine. I wanted you then, but, Douglas eucred me. I want you now. Will you serve me?

_Will._ Willingly, and bless you for the chance.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Young feller, you’ve only seen the dark side of life. You’ve been dipped into temptation; but hang on to me and I’ll pull you out. There’s my hand.

_Will._ And there’s mine.

_Jarius._ Hold on a minute. Let’s understand things. There’s got to be a rippin’ away of old associations--no billiards, no cards, no theatres.

_Will._ There’s my hand.

_Jarius._ Hold on a minute. You’re to stick to all I ask, although it goes agin the grain.

_Will._ There’s my hand.

_Jarius._ Hold on a minute. Here’s the hardest. You must solemnly promise that for one year you will never touch, taste, or handle liquor, plain or embellished, raw or fancy. It’s hard, young feller, for you, but it’s your only hope.

_Will._ It is, indeed, Jarius. Heaven bless you! You are a true friend. As you speak, I feel the strength of your good, noble heart animating mine. Yours is the first warning voice that has ever reached my ears, and I will heed it. Do with me as you will. I promise.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Nuff sed; shake. (_They stand in centre of stage, with clasped hands, as the curtain slowly descends._)

ACT THIRD.

_SCENE.--Same as Act 2. Table, L. Arm-chair L. of table, in which
is seated JOHN NUTTER. Lounge, R. Chair, R., back. Table, with
plants, L., back. Door, C., open. NED standing R. of table._

_John._ It’s no use argifying, Ned. It can’t be; it shan’t be. Mary gin her promise to Henry Douglas more than a year ago, an’ she’s got to stick tew it. I ain’t a goin’ to have no flirts about me.

_Ned._ But she does not love him, sir; she is truly attached to me. You surely would not have her break her heart.

_John._ Better break it than break her promise, and break his heart.

_Ned._ There is no fear of breaking his; he has none. He is unworthy of her.

_John._ Now, Ned, don’t be mean. Don’t speak ill of a man because he is likely to win where you may lose.

_Ned._ I speak the truth. Mary has told him she did not love him, and asked him to release her. He refused. He’s a mean, contemptible sneak, unworthy any woman’s love. That one act stamps him so.

_John._ Now stop. That’s enough. I know Henry Douglas better than you. He has been a good friend to me, and I won’t have him abused. When, a year ago, I emptied the little brown jug of my savings, and found, to my surprise, a handsome sum, he showed me a grand chance for a safe investment. I took his advice, and doubled my money in a month. He helped me to other investments.

_Ned._ I know. Some of them paid and some didn’t. The balance is on the wrong side, for your money has vanished, and there’s a mortgage of a thousand dollars on your property, which he holds. Pretty friend he!

_John._ Well, what of it? Them as win must expect to lose sometimes. It’s no use your talkin’ agin him. He’s smart, and he’ll help me out, with a handsome profit, when the time comes right.

_Ned._ And for his sake you refuse to let Mary marry the man of her choice?

_John._ _He_ was the man of her choice. I’m only a givin’ him justice. Now look a-here, Ned; let’s have no more of this. I think a heap of you. You’re a smart workman; and I’d like to see you married. Mary’s already engaged. (_Rises._) Think no more of her. If you want a smart wife,

_Enter JARIUS, C._

take Sally Peeslee. She’s a bouncer. (_Exit, L._)

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) Jes’ so. Guess I didn’t come back any tew soon. (_Aloud._) Ned!

_Ned._ (_Turning, sees JARIUS._) Jarius Jordan!

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Heow air yer, young feller? (_Shake hands._) And heow’s everybody?

_Ned._ Glad to see you once more. It must be a year since you were here.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so; a year to-day. Folks all well?

_Ned._ Yes--no; Mother Nutter is poorly; the rest are hearty.

_Jarius._ Sally Peeslee smart--hey? By the by, didn’t I hear John Nutter say somethin’ about your makin’ up to her?

_Ned._ _You_ need fear no rival in me, Mr. Jordan.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Expected you and Mary would have made a match. P’raps you have.

_Ned._ No. We are warmly attached; but Mr. Nutter will not hear of our marrying. He wants to give her to Henry Douglas.

_Jarius._ The old fool! Nothin’ personal in that remark. But he’s wus than a nine-days’-old pup--hain’t got his eyes open. Wal, what air ye goin’ to do ’bout it--give her up?

_Ned._ Never! I scarcely know what to do. Douglas has almost ruined the old man with speculation. Everything is mortgaged to him; and if Mary does not marry him, he will turn them out of their home.

_Jarius._ Sho! How much is the mortgage?

_Ned._ A thousand dollars.

_Jarius._ Wal, don’t yeou fret, young feller. I’ll see yeou through. I’ve got a bone to pick with that air chap; and, keen as he thinks himself, he’s got to git up airly if he gits ahead of Jarius Jordan. Hullo, here’s Mary!

_Enter MARY, R._

_Mary._ Well, Ned, what does he say?--Why, Mr. Jordan!

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Heow d’ye do? (_Shake hands._) Prettier than ever, I declare!

_Mary._ This is an unexpected pleasure. We haven’t seen you for a long time.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. But Ned don’t say what he said.

_Ned._ He refused me, Mary. He says you must keep your promise to Douglas.

_Mary._ Never. I’ll die first.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Good grit. Neow, young folks, I always was famous for meddlin’; and I’m goin’ to help you in this matter, if you’ll let me. Douglas has a hold on the old gent with a mortgage. I understand that. Anything else?

_Mary._ He holds a check, which he declares was forged, his name used, and the money drawn from the bank by Will. This he has threatened to use against my brother.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. A forged check? That’s an old trick. You don’t happen to know what bank it was drawn on--do you?

_Mary._ He told me. Let me think a moment. The Phœnix Bank.

_Jarius._ The Phœnix? Sho! I’ve got him! (_Goes, to table, takes a tablet from his pocket, and writes with a pencil._) Neow, then, young feller, I want to use yer. If yeou want Mary, jest put on your hat, and leg it to the telegraph office. Here’s a message; put it through, and wait for an answer. (_Tears out leaf, and gives it to NED._)

_Ned._ But what does this mean?

_Jarius._ Business. Don’t ask any questions; but go. If yeou git the answer I expect, I’ll eucre Douglas in spite of thunder.

_Ned._ Will you? Then I’m off.--Will you go, Mary?

_Jarius._ No; Mary will stay here. Where’s your politeness? Ain’t I company?

_Ned._ All right, Mr. Jordan. I’m off. (_Exit, C._)

_Jarius._ Well, Mary, heow’s yer marm?

_Mary._ She’s very sick, Mr. Jordan. She keeps her room most of the time. My brother’s conduct, my father’s wild speculations, and the persistent wooing of Henry Douglas,--whom she detests,--have made her very miserable.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Wal, we’ll see if we can’t doctor her up. Now, Mary, the next time Douglas comes here don’t you be mealy-mouthed. Let him have it right and left. Tell him jest what you think of him, and defy him to do his worst.

_Mary._ I dare not. He is wicked enough to crush father with the mortgage he holds, and mean enough to kill mother by disclosing Will’s connection with the forged check.

_Jarius._ Let him do his worst, Mary. He’s a crafty chap, a-schemin to snare the old man and get your hand; but there’s a weak p’int somewhere in his net, and if I can find it I’ll holler.

_Mary._ I’ll obey you, Mr. Jordan. Only put an end to this terrible persecution, and you will make me happy.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Hullo! there’s Sally. Now I’ve got something particular to say to her, and if you don’t mind taking a hasty leave, I’ll be obliged to ye.

_Mary._ O, certainly. Ahem! Mr. Jordan, you’re sure you have the courage to speak now?

_Jarius._ Neow yeou git eout! Want to make a feller feel cheap--don’t yeou?

_Mary._ Ha, ha! Mr. Jordan, you’ve a brave heart, but you dare not ask her. See if I am not right. Good by. (_Exit, R._)

_Jarius._ Darsn’t ask Sally to be my wife? Don’t think I’m such a blarsted fool neow. Arter staying away a year, guess I’ve about screwed my courage up to do it, or bust.

_Sally._ (_Outside, L._) Mary, Mary! Where on airth is them mangoes? (_Enter, L._)

_Jarius._ Dunno, Sally. Here’s a man _come_.

_Sally._ Jarius Jerden! Wal, I never! How d’ye do?

_Jarius._ Purty well, Sally. (_Shake hands._) Sally, you are a bouncer, and no mistake!

_Sally._ Where yeou been this long while? Come back for good?

_Jarius._ Wal, that depends. Sally, yeou dew look jest about good enough to eat.

_Sally._ Do I? (_Aside._) Law sakes; how his eyes blaze! I believe he’s going to pop. (_Aloud._) I’m making pickles.

_Jarius._ Making pickles? (_Aside._) She’s pickled me, long ago.

_Sally._ Yes; and I want the mangoes. Somebody’s hid ’em. I must find Mary. (_Crosses to R._)

_Jarius._ Don’t go, Sally; I want to speak to yeou. If you leave me neow, I won’t answer for the consequences.

_Sally._ (_Aside._) O, dear; I’m afraid of him! (_Aloud._) What is it, Mr. Jerden? (_Edging off, R._)

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) How skeery she is! Wonder what’s the matter! (_Aloud._) Sally, I’m goin’ to do somethin’ desperate, for the sight of yeou has set me on fire. I feel--I feel that the hour has come--

_Sally._ (_Aside._) I can’t bear it. (_Aloud._) Dear me; this place hain’t been dusted to-day. (_Takes her apron, and runs about dusting table, chair, and lounge._)

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) I swow, she’s skeered! All right, Jarius; now’s yer chance. (_Runs after SALLY; brings her down, C._) Sally, it’s no use; yeou must hear me. Sally, do yeou know what it is to be in--in--in--love?

_Sally._ (_Aside._) He’s going to pop! (_Aloud._) O, them plants! (_Runs up, L. C._) They haven’t been watered to-day.

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) How she does carry on! (_Runs after her, and brings her down, C._) Now look a-here, Sally; it’s no use. You’ll spile everything.

_Sally._ O, my pickles! they’ll spile! Do let me go, Mr. Jerden.

_Jarius._ (_Putting his arm round her waist._) Let ’em spile! I’ve got yeou fast, Sally, and I’m going to try and keep yeou for ever and ever.

_Sally._ (_Struggling to get away._) Mr. Jerden, I’m ashamed of you.

_Jarius._ I’m ashamed of myself, Sally. To think I’ve been so mealy-mouthed! What bright eyes you’ve got! and rosy cheeks! and such a mouth! I declare, I must have a kiss!

_Sally._ Don’t yeou dew it, Mr. Jerden.

_Jarius._ I can’t help it, Sally. I never saw a sugar bowl but what I wanted to git my fingers into it, or a ’lasses barrel but what I wanted to lick it. And a mouth like yours!--Jehu, don’t stop me! (_Kisses her._)

_Enter DOUGLAS, C._

_Douglas._ Aha! (_SALLY screams, and runs off, L._)

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Aha, yerself, and see heow yeou like it.

_Douglas._ Jarius Jordan! You back again?

_Jarius._ Jes’ so, and likely to stop a spell.

_Douglas._ I should judge so from the warm welcome you have just received. Is the day fixed--hey?

_Jarius._ Wal, not exactly. I’m kinder waitin’ for you and Mary. Is the day fixed--hey?

_Douglas._ Ha! You are sarcastic. They tell me you have made a great deal of money, Jordan.

_Jarius._ Wal, I ain’t as poor as a church mouse.

_Douglas._ That’s good. Our old friend Nutter has got into difficulties; wants money. Now you are just the chap to help him.

_Jarius._ Guess not. I don’t throw my money away for nothin’. What I git I keep.

_Douglas._ (_Aside._) Good. No fear of him. (_Aloud._) That’s right. Don’t let him wheedle you out of it; for, between you and me, he’s a ruined man.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. He’s a good old chap; but I’ve heard he’s been speculatin’, and is bound to end in the poorhouse. Wal, they’ve got a purty good one here, and’ll make him comfortable. Here comes his darter. I won’t spile your fun as you did mine. I’ve got a heap of business to attend tew. Good day. (_Aside._) Darn your ugly picter, _your_ day _is_ fixed. (_Exit, C._)

_Douglas._ Rich and mean. All the better for me; he will not mar my project; and to-day I will give Mary my ultimatum--her hand, or her father’s ruin.

_Enter MARY, R._

Ah, Mary, you are looking finely to-day!

_Mary._ Thank you, Mr. Douglas. Father is at home. I will call him. (_Crosses to L._)

_Douglas._ No. By your leave, I would have a word with you.

_Mary._ Certainly, if you wish it. (_Sits in chair L. of table._)

_Douglas._ (_Brings chair down C., and sits._) Mary, I have come to-day to revive a topic upon which I have been silent a year.

_Mary._ You come again to ask me to marry you. I have been expecting this visit.

_Douglas._ And you are prepared with an answer?

_Mary._ I am.

_Douglas._ Stop one moment, Mary. Before you give me that answer, hear me. You must believe that I love you. This long year, during which I have been almost a constant visitor, looking upon you with wistful eyes, yet with a silent tongue, for fear of your displeasure, coming and going, must be convincing proof that, spite of your coldness, your image is enshrined within my heart.

_Mary._ Mr. Douglas, the man who truly loves a woman shows his devotion by making her happy, even at the cost of his own happiness.

_Douglas._ You’re right, Mary. ’Tis your happiness I seek when I ask you to become my wife. I would not see you throw yourself away upon a poor man, when I have the power to surround you with every comfort, and a heart overflowing with love, that cannot fail to make you happy.

_Mary._ Enough. You and I can never agree. My answer a year ago was final.

_Douglas._ Pray reconsider it. If not for my sake, for that of your father.

_Mary._ Whom you have persistently wooed for the last year. What of him?

_Douglas._ He has met with reverse of fortune. He is now a poor man, so poor that, but for my friendly aid, he would have no home to shelter him.

_Mary._ (_Rising._) Your friendly aid! ’Twas you who led him into speculation; you who, by crafty advice, swept away his little store of hard-earned savings; you, who now stand over his home ready to crush it if I, his daughter, dare refuse you my hand!

_Douglas._ Nay, Mary, you are harsh. Calm yourself. Out of my deep love for you I have endeavored to better his worldly condition. If I have failed in my designs--

_Mary._ You have failed, Henry Douglas. My father is in your power, ’tis true. You can at any moment drive him from his home. In that design you have triumphed. But beyond that you have miserably failed. Though my father should curse me, should drive me from my home for my disobedience, I will never marry you--never!

_Douglas._ Ah, you’ll think better of it, Mary. I have spent a great deal of money to help him. He owes me a large sum. With you my wife, I could not be hard with him. Without you, I must deal with him justly, man to man, and claim my own.

_Mary._ Claim it at once. Drive us forth, for then comes my triumph. There’s a brave, true man waiting for me. Already we have planned a new home, where my parents will be tenderly cared for, and two loving hearts and four willing hands will rebuild all your craft has destroyed. Ay, Henry Douglas, do your worst! You are a villain, and I hate and defy you!

_Douglas._ (_Rising._) Enough. Mary Nutter, I will take you at your word. I _will_ do my worst. You have turned all my love to hate. I’ll woo no more. But, mark me, your father shall be driven from his home; your lover--curse him!--shall be shot like a dog, though I hang for it!

_Hannah._ (_Outside, L._) Mary, dear! Mary!

_Douglas._ Hark! There’s the voice of one very, very dear to you. You have defied me, Mary. I’ll strike my first blow there.

_Mary._ My mother! No, no. You would not be so cruel. Spare her, I entreat you!

_Douglas._ No, no. You are too late.

_Enter HANNAH, feebly, R., in a white wrapper._

_Hannah._ Mary, Mary, dear! don’t you hear me?

_Mary._ (_Running to her, and leading her to lounge._) Yes, mother; I was just coming. Why did you leave your room?

_Hannah._ It was so lonesome there, Mary, dear; and, you know, to-day is Will’s birthday. Yes, to-day he is a man. And I have felt all day that I should see him; that to-day he would think of his poor mother, and find the way home to her.

_Mary._ Yes, mother, it is his birthday; but he is far, far away.

_Hannah._ Yes; but not too far away to reach his mother. I remember, as though it were but yesterday, when he was twelve years old. What a bright, noble boy he was! He came to my side, put his arms about my neck, and said, “Mother, I shall soon be a man!” Dear boy, he was a brave little man then. “And when I am a man, the first thing I shall do will be to run to you and kiss you, and thank you for making me a good, true man.” Dear boy! and I haven’t seen him for two years! and he don’t write to me; and you all look strange when I ask for him. But he’ll come to-day, I know he will, for he promised; and he never broke a promise he gave his mother--never.

_Douglas._ Ah, it’s shameful, shameful that a boy with so good a mother should turn out so bad!

_Mary._ (_To DOUGLAS._) Hush! For Heaven’s sake be merciful!

_Hannah._ What’s that! Who spoke? Who said my boy turned out bad?

_Mary._ Nobody, mother. Don’t mind that man. He’s deceived himself. It’s Henry Douglas.

_Hannah._ Henry Douglas? What does he know about my Will?

_Douglas._ Too much. He has deceived me. I thought him a true, noble boy; but he robbed me.

_Enter JARIUS, C._

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) Jes’ so. He’s got to work. Where on airth is that Ned?

_Hannah._ Robbed you! My Will? ’Tis false!

_Douglas._ I’m sorry to say ’tis true.

_Mary._ Mr. Douglas, have you no pity?

_Douglas._ You would have it so, Mary. I am not to blame.

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) Consarn it, why don’t that boy come. (_He fidgets in the doorway, looking off, and then watching DOUGLAS._)

_Douglas._ Yes, Mrs. Nutter; I am sorry to distress you; but ’tis best you know the truth. While in my employ, Will robbed me of two hundred dollars.

_Hannah._ No, no; you are mistaken. My boy, my noble boy! I’ll not believe it.

_Jarius._ (_Aside._) Consarn his ugly picter! I shall split! Where is that boy?

_Douglas._ Yes, he robbed me; forged my name to a check. ’Tis here. (_Showing check._)

_Hannah._ O, Heavens! My boy! my boy!

_Douglas._ Drew the money from the bank--

(_NED appears, C. Gives JARIUS a telegram._)

_Mary._ Villain, you are killing her.--Mother, ’tis false! ’tis false!

_Douglas._ ’Tis true. I can prove it.

_Jarius._ (_Coming down C., with telegram._) Jes’ so. (_Snatches the check._) Phœnix Bank: two hundred dollars. Humbug! that’s no forgery.

_Douglas._ No forgery? Is not that my name?

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. But here’s a little telegram from the Phœnix Bank. (_Reads._) “Have examined the books. Henry Douglas never had funds in our bank.”

_Douglas._ Fool! what business have you to meddle in this matter?

_Jarius._ Why, bless your soul, I’m one of the directors in that air Phœnix.

_Douglas._ Confusion!

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Mrs. Nutter, don’t be scart. Will’s all right on that p’int.

_Hannah._ I knew he was. Poor boy, he has enemies who would rob him of his good name.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. But this ere sneak didn’t make much of a speck when _he_ tried it on. Mr. Douglas, I’d git eout if I was in yeour place.

_Douglas._ Mr. Jarius Jordan, your bare assertion that you are a director in this bank will not serve. I still hold my charge of forgery against Will Nutter.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Well, you hold it. It won’t hurt anybody if it goes off; but I’m inclined to think it’ll kick like thunder.

_Enter JOHN, L._

_John._ Ah, Douglas! I’ve been up to see you. I’m all anxiety to hear from the Carom stock. Has it gone up?

_Douglas._ No; but the mine has.

_John._ Gracious Heaven! Then I am ruined! (_Sinks into chair L. of table, and buries his face in his hands._)

_Douglas._ Yes, old man, you’ve nothing left but your house and shop; and they must go to repay me.

_John._ What! You will not close on me?

_Douglas._ I must. I want the money.

_John._ Why, you told me you would wait; that when you married Mary you would give it up. Won’t you wait?

_Douglas._ No; that would be too long.

_Mary._ I shall never marry him, father.

_John._ But you must--you shall. I’ll have no disobedience.

_Hannah._ Father, father, Mary is a good girl. Don’t speak of disobedience.

_John._ She shall marry Henry Douglas.

_Douglas._ Never, John Nutter! I would not marry your daughter were she at my feet entreating me to take her to my arms. (_Folds his arms._) She’s not my style.

_John._ What, you miserable whelp! Do you know where you are--who you are speaking to? You have entreated me to give her to you; you have begged me to exert my power, and drive her to your arms; and, now that you have me in your power, you dare to insult her! Villain, I’ll strangle you! (_Rushes at DOUGLAS._)

_Jarius._ (_Rushing between._) Hold on. Keep cool, Mr. Nutter.

_Douglas._ I want nothing that belongs to you, old man, but my money; that I will have. Pay me one thousand dollars, or I take immediate possession of your property.

_John._ O, I am justly served! I listened to your voice, embarked in speculation, turned against my daughter’s love, and now, in my old age, must wander forth without a home.

_Douglas._ It’s rather hard. Keep the home, and pay the money. It’s easy enough.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Pay the money, and let the sneak go.

_John._ How can I? I haven’t a cent in the world.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Where’s the little brown jug?

_Mary._ Alas, that is empty!

_Jarius._ Sho! Let’s have a look at it.

_John._ ’Tis useless. I haven’t put a copper into it for a year. Everything has gone to that villain.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Let’s see the jug for old acquaintance’ sake. (_Exit, MARY, L._) It’s a bad thing to give up putting away a little somethin’ for a rainy day, ain’t it, Mrs. Nutter?

_Hannah._ Yes. John always did save until that Henry Douglas showed him how to spend.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. It’s a great pity. I could tell you a story about a boy I knowed.

_Hannah._ A boy! What boy?

_Jarius._ Why, how bright you are looking, Mrs. Nutter! Guess you feel better.

_Douglas._ Well, is my money coming?

_Jarius._ Hold on. Don’t git into a sweat. I want to tell yer about that air boy. Yer see, about a year ago I came across a poor chap, who’d run down hill awful fast; he’d got into temptation, and tripped. A good deal like your boy, Mrs. Nutter.

_Hannah._ My Will? He was a good boy. He’s a man to-day.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Wal, this here chap wanted work. He was as penitent as could be; so I set him to work among agricultural implements, as a sort of salesman, paid him fair wages, and a smarter chap you never see. I noticed he never spent much, and so one day I asked him what he did with his savings. He didn’t like to tell at first; but arter a while he told me that his daddy had a kind of saving-up place--a sugar-bowl, or a coffee-pot, or a jug, somewhere, and he used to walk off every Saturday night ten miles, creep into the house, and put it away in the old ju--savings bank. Wal, I had a reapin’ machine that I had a patent onto, that I thought a heap on; but, somehow, it wouldn’t work. When they got the horses in, and a boy on top of it, and started the thing off, for a little while ’twould go first rate; when, all at once, there’d be a h’ist and spill, and machine, and horse, and boy would all be mixed up in a heap. It was a bust. Wal, that air boy would look, and look, and look at that machine, and one day he says to me, “I’ve found what’s the matter.” And I’ll be hanged if he hadn’t. I was so tickled that I jest drew my check for a thousand dollars, and made him a present of it; and I’ll be bound that air check is in the old gentleman’s little brown jug.

_Mary._ (_Outside._) O, father! mother! (_Runs in, L., with jug, followed by SALLY._) The jug! the jug! It’s heaped full of bank notes. (_Emptying it upon table._)

_Sally._ Heaps and heaps!

_John._ Bank notes, and--What’s this? (_Takes up check._) A check! “Pay to William Nutter, or order, one thousand dollars.” Signed, “Jarius Jordan.” Jordan, is this your work?

_Jarius._ Look at the back.

_John._ (_Reads._) “William Nutter.” My son!

_Hannah._ Our Will! My boy! O, Jarius Jordan! what does this mean?

_Jarius._ It means glory! Halleluyah! Fourth of July! Kingdom come! It’s a grand emancipation jubilee. The boy I’ve been telling you about is the same boy that villain, Henry Douglas, led into temptation, whom he charged with forgery, whom I took in hand, set straight, and who to-day is a man indeed--your son Will, Mrs. Nutter.

_Hannah._ I know it, I know it. He’s saved us, he’s saved us! O, where is he? Where is my boy?

_Enter WILL, C._

_Will._ Here, mother, here’s your own boy again.

_Hannah._ (_Screams._) O, Will! Will! I knew you’d come! I knew you’d come! (_Runs into his arms._)

_John._ Will, welcome home! (_Takes his hand._) Everything is forgotten and forgiven. I’m proud to welcome my son home again.

_Will._ Home, father, spite of the craft of that man whom I once called friend. It is ours still.--Mary, sister!

_Mary._ Dear, dear Will, a thousand times welcome! (_Clasps his hand._)

_Will._ Ah, sister, I have missed you all. Thank Heaven, I am once more able to meet you without a blush of shame.

_Ned._ Here’s your old chum, Will; can you spare a hand for him?

_Will._ (_Giving both hands to NED. MARY leads her mother to lounge._) Ah, Ned, you have much to forgive. That cruel blow with the little brown jug!

_Ned._ Don’t speak of it. You don’t know how much good it did me. Does he, Mary?

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. If it did you any good, give the credit where it belongs--to Henry Douglas, for he struck the blow.

_Douglas._ ’Tis false.

_Jarius._ It’s the truth, for I saw the act. I didn’t tell on it, for I wanted a p’int agin Douglas. To-morrow I shall make a charge of assault with intent to kill. It’s hung two years, but I guess it’s strong enough to do some execution.

_Douglas._ You have no witnesses. Your charge will fall to the ground, Mr. Jarius Jordan. You have outwitted me, but you must confess I have plotted safely. There’s not a point you’ve found to convict me of crime. You are rather keen. Try it. If I have failed in my attempt to ruin the family of the renowned shoemaker, John Nutter, I have still the satisfaction of retiring from the field with a very handsome profit in the shape of your check for a thousand dollars, which I shall expect to receive before night. Good day, all. Nutter, I leave you to join the hands of your daughter and her accomplished lover. Give them your blessing, and send me a card. (_At door._) Ha, ha, farewell to Cobbler’s Paradise! (_Exit, C._)

_Sally._ (_Runs up to door._) Good riddance to bad rubbish.

_Jarius._ Sally, Sally, don’t do that. (_Runs after her, and brings her down C._)

_Sally._ Jarius Jerden, if there’s a Yankee angel, you’re the critter.

_Jarius._ Sally, I want to ask you--that is--I’m going to--Consarn it! Sally, will you marry me? Phew! it’s out at last!

_Sally._ Of course I will. I would five years ago, if you’d only had the spunk to ask me.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. I’ve been a donkey. But them words did stick in my wizzen awful.

_Hannah._ (_Rising._) Law sakes, Mary, don’t try to keep me on this sofa. I ain’t a bit sick. I’m just as well as you are; and if I don’t dance at your weddin’, it’ll be because I hain’t got a partner.

_Will._ You shall not want for partners, mother. I claim the privilege of opening the ball with you.

_Hannah._ And you shall, Will. Law, my! how handsome you have grown!

_John._ Hasn’t he, mother! This is a proud day for us.

_Hannah._ Yes, indeed; for Will’s a man to-day.

_Will._ And, if I am, I owe it all to one who, in the dark hour, took me by the hand and led me into the light. Ah, many a poor boy who has been led into temptation might be saved from a miserable life if a friendly hand were stretched forth, and a warning word kindly given, as they were to me by Jarius Jordan--Heaven bless him!

_Hannah._ Ay, Heaven bless you, Jarius. You have made a mother’s heart happy in the gift of her boy, reclaimed from sin. May all you seek be yours.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so--which is Sally. I’ve got her. As there’s likely to be a matrimonial convention in this house pretty soon, I appint myself a delegate.

_Sally._ Second the motion.

_John._ Ned, I withdraw all objections to your proposal regarding Mary.

_Ned._ Thank you, Mr. Nutter.--Mary, are you going to make me happy?

_Mary._ I’m going to try, Ned. And where there’s a will there’s a way, you know.

_Will._ Mother, you don’t know how happy I feel to be with you again, to see the old home, everything about the room so familiar; even the little brown jug has a familiar look. It was my first temptation.

_Jarius._ Yes, boy, it was a family temptation. I knowed it would work trouble. Ah, if the liquid poison that slays was never allowed to show itself in the home, there would be fewer desolate hearthstones, fewer blighted lives.

_John._ You’re right, Jarius. When that boy fell, it opened my eyes, and not a drop of liquor shall ever enter my doors.

_Jarius._ Jes’ so. Stick to it, John Nutter. It was a bad speck. It turned your boy adrift; but, thanks to a mother’s love, he fought and conquered.

_Will._ (_Comes up and takes JARIUS’S hand._) Thanks to you, thanks to you!

_Jarius._ Wal, I dunno--

_Hannah._ (_Comes and takes JARIUS’S other hand._) Jes’ so, Jarius, jes’ so.

TABLEAU.

_JARIUS, C. WILL clasping his right hand, MRS. NUTTER his left.
JOHN NUTTER and SALLY, R. NED and MARY, L., arm-in-arm._

CURTAIN.

SPENCER’S UNIVERSAL STAGE.

_A Collection of COMEDIES, DRAMAS, and FARCES, adapted to either Public or Private Performance. Containing a full description of all the necessary Stage Business._

_PRICE, 15 CENTS EACH. 🖙 No Plays exchanged._

1. =Lost in London.= A Drama in Three Acts. 6 Male, 4 Female characters.

2. =Nicholas Flam.= A Comedy in Two Acts. By J. B. Buckstone. 5 Male, 3 Female characters.

3. =The Welsh Girl.= A Comedy in One Act. By Mrs. Planche. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

4. =John Wopps.= A Farce in One Act. By W. E. Suter. 4 Male, 2 Female characters.

5. =The Turkish Bath.= A Farce in One Act. By Montague Williams and F. C. Burnand. 6 Male, 1 Female character.

6. =The Two Puddifoots.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

7. =Old Honesty.= A Comic Drama in Two Acts. By J. M. Morton. 5 Male, 2 Female characters.

8. =Two Gentlemen in a Fix.= A Farce in One Act. By W. E. Suter. 2 Male characters.

9. =Smashington Goit.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 5 Male, 3 Female characters.

10. =Two Heads Better than One.= A Farce in One Act. By Lenox Horne. 4 Male, 1 Female character.

11. =John Dobbs.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 5 Male, 2 Female characters.

12. =The Daughter of the Regiment.= A Drama in Two Acts. By Edward Fitzball. 6 Male, 2 Female characters.

13. =Aunt Charlotte’s Maid.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

14. =Brother Bill and Me.= A Farce in One Act. By W. E. Suter. 4 Male, 3 Female characters.

15. =Done on Both Sides.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

16. =Dunducketty’s Picnic.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 6 Male, 3 Female characters.

17. =I’ve written to Browne.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 4 Male, 3 Female characters.

18. =Lending a Hand.= A Farce in One Act. By G. A. A’Becket. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

19. =My Precious Betsy.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 4 Male, 4 Female characters.

20. =My Turn Next.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 4 Male, 3 Female characters.

21. =Nine Points of the Law.= A Comedy in One Act. By Tom Taylor. 4 Male, 3 Female characters.

22. =The Phantom Breakfast.= A Farce in One Act. By Charles Selby. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

23. =Dandelions Dodges.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 4 Male, 2 Female characters.

24. =A Slice of Luck.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 4 Male, 2 Female characters.

25. =Always Intended.= A Comedy in One Act. By Horace Wigan. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

26. =A Bull in a China Shop.= A Comedy in Two Acts. By Charles Matthews. 6 Male, 4 Female characters.

27. =Another Glass.= A Drama in One Act. By Thomas Morton. 6 Male, 3 Female characters.

28. =Bowled Out.= A Farce in One Act. By H. T. Craven. 4 Male, 3 Female characters.

29. =Cousin Tom.= A Commedietta in One Act. By George Roberts. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

30. =Sarah’s Young Man.= A Farce in One Act. By W. E. Suter. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

31. =Hit Him, He has No Friends.= A Farce in One Act. By E. Yates and N. H. Harrington. 7 Male, 3 Female characters.

32. =The Christening.= A Farce in One Act. By J. B. Buckstone. 5 Male, 6 Female characters.

33. =A Race for a Widow.= A Farce in One Act. By Thomas J. Williams. 5 Male, 4 Female characters.

34. =Your Life’s in Danger.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

35. =True unto Death.= A Drama in Two Acts. By J. Sheridan Knowles. 6 Male, 2 Female characters.

36. =Diamond cut Diamond.= An Interlude in One Act. By W. H. Murray. 10 Male, 1 Female character.

37. =Look after Brown.= A Farce in One Act. By George A. Stuart, M. D. 6 Male, 1 Female character.

38. =Monseigneur.= A Drama in Three Acts. By Thomas Archer. 15 Male, 3 Female characters.

39. =A very pleasant Evening.= A Farce in One Act. By W. E. Suter. 3 Male characters.

40. =Brother Ben.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

41. =Only a Clod.= A Comic Drama in One Act. By J. P. Simpson. 4 Male, 1 Female character.

42. =Gaspardo the Gondolier.= A Drama in Three Acts. By George Almar. 10 Male, 2 Female characters.

43. =Sunshine through the Clouds.= A Drama in One Act. By Slingsby Lawrence. 3 Male, 3 Female characters.

44. =Don’t Judge by Appearances.= A Farce in One Act. By J. M. Morton. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

45. =Nursey Chickweed.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 4 Male, 2 Female characters.

46. =Mary Moo; or, Which shall I Marry?= A Farce in One Act. By W. E. Suter. 2 Male, 1 Female character.

47. =East Lynne.= A Drama in Five Acts. 8 Male, 7 Female characters.

48. =The Hidden Hand.= A Drama in Five Acts. By Robert Jones. 16 Male, 7 Female characters.

49. =Silverstone’s Wager.= A Commedietta in One Act. By R. R. Andrews. 4 Male, 3 Female characters.

50. =Dora.= A Pastoral Drama in Three Acts. By Charles Reade. 5 Male, 2 Female characters.

51. =Blanks and Prizes.= A Farce in One Act. By Dexter Smith. 5 Male, 2 Female characters.

52. =Old Gooseberry.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 4 Male, 2 Female characters.

53. =Who’s Who.= A Farce in One Act. By T. J. Williams. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

54. =Bouquet.= A Farce in One Act. 2 Male, 3 Female characters.

55. =The Wife’s Secret.= A Play in Five Acts. By George W. Lovell. 10 Male, 2 Female characters.

56. =The Babes in the Wood.= A Comedy in Three Acts. By Tom Taylor. 10 Male, 3 Female characters.

57. =Putkins: Heir to Castles in the Air.= A Comic Drama in One Act. By W. R. Emerson. 2 Male, 2 Female characters.

58. =An Ugly Customer.= A Farce in One Act. By Thomas J. Williams. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

59. =Blue and Cherry.= A Comedy in One Act. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

60. =A Doubtful Victory.= A Comedy in One Act. 3 Male, 2 Female characters.

61. =The Scarlet Letter.= A Drama in Three Acts. 8 Male, 7 Female characters.

62. =Which will have Him?= A Vaudeville. 1 Male, 2 Female characters.

63. =Madam is Abed.= A Vaudeville in One Act. 2 Male, 2 Female characters.

64. =The Anonymous Kiss.= A Vaudeville. 2 Male, 2 Female characters.

65. =The Cleft Stick.= A Comedy in Three Acts. 5 Male, 3 Female characters.

66. =A Soldier, a Sailor, a Tinker, and a Tailor.= A Farce in One Act. 4 Male, 2 Female characters.

67. =Give a Dog a Bad Name.= A Farce. 2 Male, 2 Female Characters.

68. =Damon and Pythias.= A Farce. 6 Male, 4 Female characters.

69. =A Husband to Order.= A Serio-Comic Drama in Two Acts. 5 Male, 3 Female characters.

70. =Payable on Demand.= A Domestic Drama in Two Acts. 7 Male, 1 Female character.

_Price, 15 cents each. Descriptive Catalogue mailed free on application to_

GEO. M. BAKER A. CO., 149 WASHINGTON ST., BOSTON.

Plays for Amateur Theatricals

By GEORGE M. Baker.

_Author of “Amateur Dramas,” “The Mimic Stage,” “The Social Stage,” “The Drawing-room Stage,” “A Baker’s Dozen,” &c._

=Titles in this Type are New Plays.=

_Cts._

DRAMAS.

_In Three Acts._

=My Brother’s Keeper.= 5 male, 3 female characters. 15

_In Two Acts._

=Among the Breakers.= 6 male, 4 female characters. 15

SYLVIA’S SOLDIER. 3 male, 2 female characters. 15

ONCE ON A TIME. 4 male, 2 female characters. 15

DOWN BY THE SEA. 6 male, 3 female characters. 15

BREAD ON THE WATERS. 5 male, 3 female characters. 15

THE LAST LOAF. 5 male, 3 female characters. 15

_In One Act._

STAND BY THE FLAG. 5 male characters. 15

THE TEMPTER. 3 male, 1 female characters. 15

COMEDIES and FARCES.

=The Boston Dip.= 4 male, 3 female characters. 15

=The Duchess of Dublin.= 6 male, 4 female characters. 15

WE’RE ALL TEETOTALERS. 4 male, 2 female characters. 15

A DROP TOO MUCH. 4 male, 2 female characters. 15

THIRTY MINUTES FOR REFRESHMENTS. 4 male, 3 female characters. 15

A LITTLE MORE CIDER. 5 male, 3 female characters. 15

_Male Characters Only._

=Gentlemen of the Jury.= 12 char. 15

=A Tender Attachment.= 7 char. 15

=The Thief of Time.= 6 char. 15

=The Hypochondriac.= 5 char. 15

=A Public Benefactor.= 6 char. 15

=The Runaways.= 4 char. 15

=Coals of Fire.= 6 char. 15

WANTED, A MALE COOK. 4 char. 15

A SEA OF TROUBLES. 8 char. 15

FARCES.

FREEDOM OF THE PRESS. 8 char. 15

A CLOSE SHAVE. 6 char. 15

THE GREAT ELIXIR. 9 char. 15

THE MAN WITH THE DEMIJOHN. 4 char. 15

HUMORS OF THE STRIKE. 8 char. 15

NEW BROOMS SWEEP CLEAN. 6 char. 15

MY UNCLE THE CAPTAIN. 6 char. 15

_Female Characters Only._

=The Red Chignon.= 6 char. 15

=Using the Weed.= 7 char. 15

=A Love of a Bonnet.= 5 char. 15

=A Precious Pickle.= 6 char. 15

THE GREATEST PLAGUE IN LIFE. 8 char. 15

NO CURE, NO PAY. 7 char. 15

THE GRECIAN BEND. 7 char. 15

ALLEGORIES.

_Arranged for Music and Tableaux._

=The Revolt of the Bees.= 9 female characters. 15

LIGHTHEART’S PILGRIMAGE. 8 female characters. 15

THE WAR OF THE ROSES. 8 female characters. 15

THE SCULPTOR’S TRIUMPH. 1 male, 4 female characters. 15

MUSICAL AND DRAMATIC.

=The Seven Ages.= A Tableau Entertainment. Numerous male and
female characters. 15

TOO LATE FOR THE TRAIN. 2 male characters. 15

SNOW BOUND; OR, ALONZO THE BRAVE AND THE FAIR IMOGENE. 3 male,
1 female character. 25