«;. • \^i > i /'/ A. .Ji I / ^ ( LIBRARY ANNEX BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME FROM THE SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND THE GIFT OF Henrg M, Sage 1S91 L:iai.^&.^ B.!.bri'.i. 3777 PR4629.DiTa6""'™™"'"-"'"'^ Angelica; a romantic drama in four acts. 3 1924 013 343 573 The original of tliis book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31 92401 3343573 AUGUSTUS W. DUBOUm ANGELICA ROMANTIC DRAMA LONDON RICHARD BENTLEY AND SON, NEW BURLINGTON STREET .)p»bli«hne in ®rtinitts to $n ^sjests tht OQitUR 1892 ANGELICA ROMANTIC DRAMA IN FOUR ACTS NOTE. The dramatic and all other 7-ights in the United States of America are re- served by the Author. ANGELICA glomatttic ^rama in Jfour ^de A. W. DUBOURG AUTHOR OF *'»"OC.'R ORIGINAL PLAV8," ETC. .JOINT AUTHOR (with TOM TAYLOR) Oil* THK COMEDY " NEW MEN AND OLD ACRB8," ETC. LONDON RICHARD BENTLEY AND SON JUublishers in (Brttnai;;^ to gj^r ^ajeatj) the d^ttun 1892 [Dramatic righln mid all otlier rights reeerved] TO MRS. LOUISE JOPLING OF A SISTER AKTIST IS DEDICATED. " But 'tis Eeynolds' way From wisdom to stray, And Angelica's whim To be frolic like him." Dr. Goldsmith (impromptu lines). CHARACTERS. SIR JOSHUA REYNOLDS . . President of the Royal Academy. M R. BARTOLOZZI, R.A. . Engraver, etc. 1[R. KAUPFMANN . , Father to Angelica. .JOHN NORTHCOTB . . A lad from Devonshire. HIS EXCELLENCY THE SWEDISH AMBASSADOR. COUNT STROSSMAN . First Secretary to the Swedish Embassy. HANS . Servant to Strossman. FERSEN . . . Valet to Strossman. BOW STREET OFFICER. SHERIFF'S OFFICER. FOOTMAN TO LADY MARGARET FORBES. MISS ANGELICA KAUPFMANN, R.A. LADY MARGARET FORBES . In love with Sir Joshua Reynolds. MISS REYNOLDS . . . Sister to Sir Joshua Reynolds. SERVANT TO ANGELICA. GUESTS, MOCK GUESTS, CROWD, BOW STREET OFFICERS. ACT I. " SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER." ACT 11. COUNT DE HORNE. ACT III. SIR JOSHUA'S BRIDE. ACT IV. THE VALET'S WIFE. ACT I. "SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER." SCENE. Large room in Lady Margaret Forbes' liouse in Grosrenor Square, used as a studio. Entrance to rooTn, R. ; entrance to library, L., large window at end of room looking out into a t-own garden. Easel and sitter's chair in centre of room— small table near window with en. graver's appliances, Bartolozzi discovered in conversation with Kauffmann. BARTOLOZZI. Excellently well lodged, friend Kauffmann — good north light for work — ah ! and a convenient table for your cameo- cutting and seal-engraving. Comfortable quarters in all respects, I'll be bound. KAUFFMANN. Lady Margaret is very kind to us— loves Angelica like a sister — would make us stay here till Angelica can get settled in the house she has taken in Golden Square. She loves painting and artists, does my lady — her love is greater than her art ; but her art is good enough for h grand lady — though there's no bread in it ; but she lacks for nothing in that way — heaps of money 1 BARTOLOZZL Lucky woman I Give me bread before art. I've tried art on a lean stomach. KAUFFMANN. And it made you an artist, Bartolozzi ! 2 ANGELICA. BARTOLOZZI. The stomach the seat of genius, hey ? At any rate, it's a clever teacher, and a sharp master. But where's Angelica ? I want a word with her. KAUFFMANN. Attending my Lady Margaret at Mr. Christie's sale- room — the last sale of the Chelsea china. They are in- separable. But she wOl be here directly to get on with her big picture " Arcadia," (Points to easel) which is to compete for membership in this new Eoyal Academy they are all agog about. BARTOLOZZI. I'm in for the competition myself. Membership will be a great honour if the thing takes root and lives. I doubt it. Anything stirring with Angelica's love affairs ? KAUFFMANN. Magnificent things 1 if I could only teach her to play the cards she holds. (Argelica enters L.) Between ourselves, two lovers at her feet. ANGELICA. Father, you must not talk in this way— nonsense 1 KAUFFMANN. Your settlement in life ; it's my duty. I'm an old man — I cannot always be your protector. BARTOLOZZL No secrets with your godfather. But, first of all, how are you, my child ? ANGELICA. Quite well, dear Father Bartolozzi, if it wasn't for this endless bother about love. My father gives me no peace. Love is such a plague for a woman 1 Why do people love , ACT I. 3 me ? This man is nice, the other man is nice ; they are all nice together, and there it ends. I'm sure I was made without a heart, or, at least, just enough to circulate the blood — that's all the use I can find for the thing people call a heart. KAUFFMANN. Count Strossman and Sir Joshua Reynolds for lovers ! Something grand to choose from, if a woman has common wit. B ARTOLOZZI. I've heard the rumour, and I've come with a caution. Not Count Strossman — it's playing with fire. I am told h\ the laws of Sweden that a nobleman cannot marrj' a commoner — it's no vahd marriage. KAUFFMANN. Are you sure ? Count Strossman 1 It would be such a splendid match for Angelica 1 My daughter a countess I BARTOLOZZI. Depend on it, my information is correct ; so Count Stross- man is out of the reckoning. But Su" Joshua remains — a great artist, and a title to boot. KAUFFMANN. Still, a painter's a painter; and Counts, with their ribbons and their stars ANGELICA. Counts die, and there's an end of the stars. I admire and revere Sir Joshua — indeed, I do — but KAUFFMANN. There's always a " but " in your love affairs. Look you, Bartolozzi — there's a certain young man that comes liere — Count Strossman's valet — to sit as a model for the shepherd in the " Arcadia." 4 ANGELICA. ANGELICA (with warmth). Father ! what do you mean ? kaufpmaNN. Where there's a man you always contrive to flirt. It makes me half mad ! He's a good-looking fellow ; been brought up as a gentleman, they say — the illegitimate son of some great Swedish nobleman, that's the story. ANGELICA. Silence ! Father, do you think for one moment that I should demean myself by giving the slightest encourage- ment to a person in such a position ? I may pity him — I may pity a dog. -. BeaUy, you must think your daughter a fool 1 A valet 1 Miss Angelica Kaufifmann I — the valet of Count Strossman ! It's a positive insult. (In changed tones.) There, father dear, I know your devotion to me from my earliest days. I wiU do all I can to please you. But Sir Joshua — I don't believe he really cares for me. Just a chat about art — rather animated sometimes — but, after all, only painting-room talk. BAETOLOZZI. Trust me, that's how love will begin with Sir Joshua. He's very shy with women — keeps them at a distance with his courtly manner ; but art is his vulnerable point, Cupid's bull's-eye ; that's the mark for your arrows, Angelica 1 KAUFPMANN. -Ay, and the fear of a rival — if Count Strossman can't be a husband; he maj' serve as a rival. BAHTOLOZZL .Curiously enough, I am the bearer of a commission from Count Strossman. They want a pictorial design for their invitation tickets for the big ball they are going to give at the Swedish Embassy. Mr. Cipriani was com- ACT I. 5 missioned to send in a sketch, but Count Strossman don't like his work — too heavy in cliaraoter — he directs me to offer you a commission — twenty pounds for a sketch — a liberal hand, indeed ! Something you could knock off in two or three hours, light and bright — only he must have it this evening without fail ; he is obliged to forward it to the Ambassador, who is staying at Bath for the waters, by early despatch to-morrow morning. Cipriani has wasted the time. I'm to engrave the plate. I love to work from your drawings, Angelica mine. ANGELICA. And sometimes correct the drawing. I shall be delighted. - Twenty pounds would be very nice, wouldn't it, father, with all this furniture to buy for the new house ? But I was going to see Dr. Goldsmith's new comedy this even- ing with Lady Margaret — " She Stoops to Conquer," that's the name, isn't it ? KAUFFMANX. Take the twenty pounds, my child, and give up the comedy. If the comedy lives, you can see it another night ; if it dies, as they say it will, you'll have been saved a duU evening. ANGELICA. I accept the commission, and give up the play. I can knock off the sketch by candle-light, and now I'll do a little work on the big picture — iinish off my shepherd — or I shall be all behind-hand with " Arcadia." (Rings bell.) KAUFPMANN. Now you are here, Bartolozzi, I want you to price some old drawings I picked up in Italy. I meant to sell 'em at Christie's. Say, Carlo Dolce — ^it's a good name just now to catch the buyers, though I prefer Eaphael — but Count Strossman wants to buy them privately. They are in the library. 6 ANGELICA. BAKTOLOZZI. Bravo, Mr. Count ! He's a true patron of art ! I'll price your Carlo Doloe's — or Carlo anythings you like — that will catch your connoisseurs. The Count can afforil to pay a liberal price. (Exeunt Bartolozzi and Kaiiffmann into library. Enter Servant.) ANGELICA. Tell Count Strossman's valet to wait on me. (Exit Servant. Angelica goes to table, takes up palette, maul- stick and brushes.) A valet, indeed 1 To be accused of thinking for one moment of a valet 1 It is true he has much to endure, unfortunate young man ; that his manners are those of a gentleman by birth and education — but a valet ! If he were not a valet I am angry with myself. Perhaps I have been too condescendiag in my manner. There shall be no mistake from henceforth. (Fersen enters.) FERSBN (bows). I am at your service, madam, your very humble ser- vant. ANGELICA (without noticing him, but intent on blending colours on the palette). Take your seat, the same pose as yesterday. (Fersen sits in attitude, Angelica looking up.) No, no ; you must hold the crook in your right hand — don't you remember ? (Takes up a gilt crook which is leaning against easel, and places it in Fersen's hand.) Extend the right arm, as I told you. (Returns to easel.) That wiU do — head turned a little more to the right. (Paints in silence.) FERSEN. Madam, what have I done ? ACT I. 7 ANGELICA. Done ? "What should you do ? You have attended, according to my directions. FEESEN. But your manner to-day is so different from yesterday — kind and gracious ANGELICA. You interrupt my work ; pray be silent ! PEBSBN. Silent ! and my fault unknown, and therefore un- atoned. ANGELICA. Fersen, it is not your place to address me — you forget yourself. PERSBN. I do ; I have forgotten myself ever since I met you. ANGELICA. I forbid you to speak. If you will not be silent I must dismiss you. Presumption is most unbecoming in a person of your station. PBBSBN. I pray your pity. Oh 1 have a little mercy. Eecollect the story of my life. ANGELICA. You have told it me more than once. I really have no time to lose in fruitless tali. PBBSBN". Are these cold words from the heart that has felt so deeply for my misfortunes, that has encouraged me to tell the tale ? Think of it ! Brought up as befits the heir to a great title and estate ; and then, at my father's death, my cruel relations discover that my poor mother was u 8 ANGELICA. commoner by birtli — that lier marriage, before men, was invalid. Cast out with ignominy — mother and son — into the hard world, without a home, without a name ! ANGELICA. Once and again — you have told me all this, and I have pitied you — can I do more ? FBRSBN. I have told you the one dream, the one hope of my sad life — that the nobility of my mother's birth may yet be pi'oved. There are good men, good lawyers, trying to help me in Sweden ; Count Strossman even is trying to help me, in his harsh way — restoration to title and estate I That large hope to support me in my misery — and now I tell you that from henceforth I discard that hope. ANGELICA. What do you mean ? EEESEN. Bear with me, in mercy 1 I am half mad ! Tour cold- ness drives me to frenzy. I say, I have discarded that hope. ANGELICA. Why? FBRSBN. Because I love you. If I am restored to title and honour, we are separated for ever. I can never marry you. ANGELICA. Sir, you talk in a very wild and foolish manner ! You dare to talk of love and marriage to me 1 Count Stross- man' s valet FBRSBN. I can fling off the plush ! ANGELICA. Be reasonable. A beggar without a name 1 ACT I. 9 PERSEN. I can win a name, or die. The battlefield I The world's full of war — and then, fame and honour at your feet. ANGELICA. Discard such absurd thoughts ; and, once more, be silent for your own sake, or I must end the sitting. Your master. Count Strossman, would be very angry. FERSEK. My master while I choose ; but I am not his slave. I cannot be silent. Come what may, at least you shall know the truth. I love you — wildly, madly, hopelessly — but I love you ! ANGELICA. Leave this room ! Go, or I shall ring the bell ! (Goes towards bell.) FBESEN. And then they will drive me from this house. But this much you shall know, that somewhere in this world a heart lives for you alone ; that love, honour, and reverence dwell in that heart — yours for ever — my gift to you — your possession ; trample on it, if you will ; scorn it, if you will — but yours for ever, till death's mercy ends the pain! (Kauffmann enters.) ANGELICA (with agitation). Father — this young man — his language KAUFFMANN. I overheard his insolence. ANGELICA. Let him go, KAUFFMANN. His master shall be told of this. ANGELICA. No ; let him go, I say — I insist ! (Servant enters, announces " Count Strossman." Strossman enters, fol- lowed by. Hans, bearing a bouquet.) 10 ANGELICA. STEOSSMAN (bowing to Angelica). Good-day, fair lady ; but — some commotion, I fear ? ANGELICA. Nothing, Count. I was saying tliat I shall not require the presence of Fersen for any more sittings. KAUFFM ANN. The Count shall know the truth. This young man has forgotten his position, and has dared to address unbe- coming language to my daughter, which ought to be punished. ANGELICA. Not so ; a simple rebuke, if you will. As a particular favour, I request that no more notice may be taken of this trifling affair. STBOSSMAN. At your desire, fair and gracious lady, no undue notice shall be taken. (Calls.) Fersen, my hat and cane. FEBSBN. Count Strossman, I am no longer your valet. STEOSSMAN. Unwise and hasty — you'll starve I FEBSBN. There's bread in the world. I have hands and strength. STEOSSMAN. True ; but your mother lives on my bounty — is she to starve ? Be wise ; you know me. (Fersen irresolute.) Take my hat and cane. (Fersen, after a pause, comes forward and takes Strossman's hat and cane.) Place them on that table ; then take that bouquet from ACT I. 11 Hans, and present it to Miss Kauffmann with your master's devoted service. (Forson obeys.) ANGELICA. Spare him, I pray. STROSSMAN Pardon me, Miss Kauffmann, I must be allowed to have my own way with my own servants. — Present the bouquet. F E R S E N. Madam, by my master's command I present this bouquet to you with his devoted service. (Angelica takes bouquet with reluctance.) STROSSMAN. Pray this lady's pardon for your insolence. ANGELICA. It is nothing — I protest PBRSEN. Madam, I STROSSMAN. On your knees — obey 1 F E R S E N (with intense effort submits and kneels). Madam, I humbly pray your pardon. ANGELICA (deeply agitated). It is granted, freely granted. (Staggers back, letting the bouquet fall from her band.) Father, I cannot bear this any longer — your arm. (Takes Kauffmaun's arm.) Lady Margaret is waiting for me, I must go. (Angelica and Kauffmann go out by library, he supporting her.) STROSSMANN (motions to Fersen, who picks up bouquet. Aside). So, my fair one loves this young man; knowledge is always useful. (Aloud to Fersen.) You love this woman, do you ? Sir, your betters first ! 12 ANGELICA. Fool ! have I never flung you my cast-off clothes ? Attend, you have the list of the guests invited to my supper to-night : write a letter to each in my name, stating, with deep regret, that the supper is unavoidably postponed ; give the letters to Hans, who wUl deliver them personally at the theatre. With the exception of the letters, every- thing else as previously ordered. FEESBN. The supper ? STROSSMAN. Strictly according to orders — no change. I shall have one guest— one honoured guest. Go at once, and write the letters. By the way, the major-domo tells me he can't sleep o' nights. I've promised him a narcotic ; let him have the bottle from my medicine-chest labelled " Sleep." Poor man 1 I think it will give him the repose he requires. Go 1 FERBBN. (aside). One honoured guest ! Drugged sleep, he means. Can it be possible — a plot against her honour ? STROSSMAN. "Why do you linger ? Quickly with those letters. PERSEN. At once, your Excellency. The supper ? STROSSMASr. I've said so ; as ordered — no change. Go 1 FEESBN (aside). In his hands — Angelica alone — can it be ? I wiU save her, if I die. (Exit.) STROSSMAN (to Hans). When you have received the letters from Eersen, go to Covent Garden Theatre and deliver them during the per- formance. You know all the persons by sight ; make no ACT I. 18 mistake, or yovi'll suffer for it. You are not to deliver the letter addressed to Miss Katiffmann ; destroy it. When you have delivered the letters at the theatre, come on here with my coach. Miss Kauffmann vi'ill be ready. When she is safely in the carriage, drive post-haste to Chelsea. Don't fail ; be secret and discreet. Above all, not one vford to Fersen ; he can't be trusted in this delicate affair. Some day, I shall make you my valet in his place. (Hans bows and goes out.) To vsfin a woman, is it worth all this trouble ? Why, I might win a diplomatic triumph, outwit cunning am- bassadors with less labour ; the process is magnificent, but the result is very small. A straight path to fame and honour, and yet I madly turn aside and pursue a butterfly — crushed in the hand that grasps it, and then cast away — a residuum of tears, remorse — the cold ashes of passion — nothing better to show for a triumph. Pooh 1 logic to cure madness ! It's all in vain ; mine she must be 1 (Lady Margaret enters.) Ah, my Lady Margaret, how fares the grand passion ? ' LADY MARGARET. lU, Count. STROSSMAN. Sir Joshua is constantly at your house. LADY MARGARET. Angelica is the attraction. STROSSMAN. That's your opportunity ! Turn the attraction to your- self. LADY MARGARET. Sir Joshua is absorbed in his love of art. STROSSMAN. But you are a lady of noble birth, and she is only fit to be your waiting-woman. 14 ANGELICA. LADY MARGARET. An artist I STROSSMAN. What is an artist in comparison with a grand lady ? I'm sick of this cant about the nobility of art ! LADY MARGARET. But you love her — you say you love her I STROSSMAN. Love her ? Yes ; love her I LADY MARGARET. But you cannot marry her. STROSSMAN. Marry her 1 Our law in Sweden forbids the marriage of a noble with a commoner. But, in any event, do you suppose I should stoop to marry a plebeian? Honour enough for her that I choose to love her — to honour her with my love. LADY MARGARET. But Sir Joshua ? You know my secret, for you your- self have guessed it. I love that man — I would gladly marry him, but this woman stands between me and my desperate hope. I entertain her in this house because she , serves to bring him here ; but I suffer an agony when he comes. Sometimes I' think it were better to send her away and end it all — the pain is too great 1 STROSSMAN. What was my pledge ? LADY MARGARET. That she should never marry Sir Joshua, because you love her — always that string. ACT I. 15 8TB0SSMAN. I possess another string, which the fortune of to-day has discovered. Take comfort, two strings ! Come what may, I say she shall never marry Sir Joshua Eeynolds. (Angelica enters from library. Strossman addresaos her with gallant air.) Fair lady, a thousand apologies for that painful scene. ANGELICA. Let it all pass, I pray you ; and let ms thank you for that liberal commission — far too liberal for the work required. STE0S8MAN. And you will execute it this evening ? ANGELICA. Certainly ; to the best of my power. STEOSSMAN. It's a whim of mine. I want to show your work to my guests to-night. They shall decide between you and Mr. Cipriani. I wager the victory will be yours ; and then I must send it off by earliest despatch to Bath for his Excel- lency's inspection. We are aU impatient for the invita- tions to be issued for the grand ball. It will be magnifi- cent 1 All the Court, aU the ilite of society, will be present — and Miss Kauffmann, if she will deign to honour his Excellency with her presence ? ANGELICA. Count, you are too gracious — a humble artist, almost a stranger in England. STROSSMAN. I protest, madam, the honour will be ours. There is no honour too great for Miss Kauffmann. "When his Excel- lency returns to town, I promise you all his patronage and favour. All my poor influence in society is already yours. The commissions will flock in. 16 ANGELICA. ANGELICA. A thousand thanks for all this unmeritecl kindness ! STE0S3MAN. Nay, madam ; Genius commands, I only obey. There were some drawings by the Old Masters which your good father promised should be mine. (Kauffmann enters from library.) Ah ! Mr. Kauffmann, those drawings — I have your promise. KAUFFMANN. They are yours, Count, at your service. My friend, Mr. Bartolozzi, has just valued them. He names a large sum, I confess — one hundred pounds 1 STROSSMAN. They are mine. Prompt payment is my maxim. KAUFFMANN. Nay, Count STROSSMAN. I have the money, I think. (Takes out notes, which he gives to Kauffmann.) And now, fair lady, if you will graciously accept at my hands the value of your conunission. (Gives note to Angelica.) ANGELICA (starts). Why — why I have no change ! It's a note for fifty pounds 1 (Offers to return note.) Twenty was the sum, and that was too liberal by far. STROSSMAN. Pardon me, that was Mr. Bartolozzi's estimate ; my estimate exceeds his. ANGELICA. Father, what must I do ? This is robbery I ACT I. 17 KAUFPMANN. Commit the crime, my child, and thank his Excellency for his generous patronage. ANGELICA. It shall be my best work, that's aU I can say. STEOSSMAN. And you wO bring it this evening to my supper, where j'ou will reign as queen, crowned with your own laurels. I can promise you the devotion of one loyal subject — your ■s-ery devoted and humble servant. (Bows. Servant enters and announces "Mias Reynolds, my lady." Miss Reynolds enters, Servant goes out.) MISS REYNOLDS. Lady Margaret, your most obedient. AngeUca — Count Strossman. (Bows stiffly to the Count.) Lady Margaret, I have come on a double mission. Joshua is finishing off a sitting as long as the light lasts, and then he'll follow me. First, business — I manage all my brother's business arrangements. I have to request you. Lady Margaret, to put off your sitting for to-morrow morning, as Jo.shua has received a command to attend his Majesty on the affairs of the new Academy. My next mission is pleasure. Jcfehua has secured one of the best boxes to-night at Covent Garden for Dr. Goldsmith's comedy ; he requests Lady Margaret and Miss Kauffmami to share the box with us. We can aU go together, and afterwards go to Count Strossman's supper in Joshua's coach. LADY MARGARET. I shall be delighted. Sir Joshua is too good to honour us in this way ! MISS REYNOLDS. My lady, the honour is his. And you, Angelica ? 2 18 ANGELICA. STB08SMAN. I am afraid I must interpose, with deep regret ; but Miss Kauffmann has promised to devote the evening to me — the design for our ball tickets, which is urgent. ANGELICA. I have given my promise to the Count ; but I shall join you all at supper. STROSSMAN. My coach will convey Miss Kauffmann safely to Cheyne Walk. I only regret that I should be an obstacle to this evening's amusement ; but, after all, the amusement seems doubtful. MISS REYNOLDS. A comedy by Dr. Goldsmith ? STROSSMAN. I hear, on the best authority, that Manager Colman is in despair ; that he has been driven to produce the play against his own judgment ; that all the best actors, Mrs. Abingdon to boot, have thrown up their parts — and actors ought to know what a play is. A most absurd plot I .lust fancy a man in his seven senses mistaking a gentle- man's country house for a country inn ! The idea is too absurd for a farce — and what person of refined taste could tolerate a farce which is to last a whole evening? We have not come to that yet, thank the gods 1 MISS REYNOLDS. Dr. Johnson thinks the play an excellent comedy. STROSSMAN. Madam, three or four hours wiU decide between the learned doctor and your very unlearned servant. (Bows.) But, unless I'm a fool, " She Stoops to Conquer " will go out like a damp squib, and be heard of no more in the ACT I. 10 history of the drama. And now, ladies, duties of State call me away from this delightful society, your most obedient Au revoir, till to-night, when I shall have the honour of playing the host to you in my own inn at Cheyne Walk, Chelsea. (Bows.) KAUFFMANN. Count, grant the favour of a few minutes to inspect the drawings which you have purchased. STROSSMASr. Certainly, if Miss Kauffmann will be good enough to point out their beauties. KAUPFMANN. My daughter will be delighted. In the library. Count. Angelica, my child, show the Count. (Ajigelica goes out to library followed by Strossman and Kauffmann.) MISS REYNOLDS. I hate that man ! LADY MARGARET. Dear madam, I protest. A man of fashion, and a man of taste 1 MISS REYNOLDS. I hate him because he is always paying attentions to Angelica. LADY MARGARET. Her attractions and her talent. MISS REYNOLDS. He has no right to trifle with her, because he can never marry her — that's the law of his country. Now, once more to business. I never had such business on hand before. My lady, you must give me all the help you can ; my brother is in love with Angelica — the first woman he has ever cared for — and I'm at a nonplus. 20 ANaELICA. LADY MARGARET. What's the difficulty ? MISS REYNOLDS. Women always frighten him. LADY MARGARET. But he is always so gallant to ladies — compliments, and delightful flatteries. MISS REYNOLDS. That's from fright. It keeps them off. Gallantry is his shield — flattery, a coat-of-mail, and behind the armour, sheer fright. But he's in love now — dying to make an offer, and he doesn't know the way. You see, women have always existed in his mind as ideals, not human beings — so many yards of painted canvas, light and shade, clrapery, schemes of colour, bankers' cheques even, but not flesh and blood. " Law 1 Joshua," I tell him, " talk to her anyhow." But that's the rub ; " anyhow " blocks the way. If I could only make Angelica understand — just a little help over the stones. Couldn't you help us by giving her a hint — ^just a wee, tiny hint — very indirect, of course ; I mean a sort of something round the corner ? LADY MARGARET. My dear madam, impossible 1 I could not interfere in such a delicate affair. I must be pardoned. You must excuse me while I change my dress for the theatre ; it's getting late. (Aside.) I must let Count Strossman know that matters are imminent, if he wants to secure Angelica. (Exit.) MISS REYNOLDS. If Lady Margaret won't help, I must teU her myself. It's very awkward— something round the corner always is ACT I. _ 21 awkwai-d— but it will be still more awkward if the offer iR never made. (Angelica enters from library.) Well, I hope you detest that odious Count Strossman — Idol ANGELICA. Indeed, Miss Beynolds, you don't do him iustioe ! He is vastly gracious and considerate — most hberal in his patronage both to my father and myself. MISS REYNOLDS. A nobleman, granted ; but, recollect, he can never marry you ! ANGELICA. The idea of marriage never entered into my head 1 MISS REYNOLDS. Well, but there are other people who can marry you — there are other people who would like to marry you — there are other people's sisters who would like you to marry them. (Aside.) I hope that's as clear as the best logic. ANGELICA. Several husbands, madam ? And aU the sisters ? MISS REYNOLDS. No ; one husband, if you are not a goose — saving your presence — and one sister-in-law. ANGELICA. Madam, I protest. MISS REYNOLDS. That's just what you mustn't do. You must assent before you are asked, or you never will be asked. You must keep " Yes " ready to jump out of your mouth, like a Jaek-in-the-box — the slightest touch, snap goes the 22 ANGELICA. spring, and, presto 1 there stands "Yes" smiling and smirking on your lips. Mark my words, a nimble " Yes " will make you a lady of title, with a fine house, before you Imow where you are ; a lazy " Yes," and you may die a spinster I (Aside.) It's round the corner, but I think I've made it plain enough. (Sir JoBliua enters.) Why, here's Joshua come to take us to the theatre. Lady Margaret is beautifying herself before the glass ; Miss Kauffmann can't go because she has a commission to execute for Count Strossman. I'U tell Lady Margaret that you are here ; (Aside to Sir Josliua) and keep her employed. Out with it, Joshua, or Count Strossman will carry her off under your very nose, and then you'll be sorry in vain. Why, it's so easy ; four little letters spell " love " — short, and very sweet. (Exit.) SIE JOSHUA (with embarrassment). Madam, I must express my profound regret that you are unable to accompany us to the theatre. ANGELICA. I deeply regret it also ; but the claims of Art are sacred. You will forgive me for yielding to their demands ? SIR JOSHUA. Assuredly, my dear lady. To an artist, art rnust be the one object of life — emphatically the sole object of exist- ence. ANGELICA. I feel that. SIE JOSHUA. With fervour ? ANGELICA. With my whole heart. ACT I. 23 SIE JOSHUA (with warmth). That is the spirit I love to behold in the artist 1 — the spirit that leads through hard toil to fame. And you, a woman, with all woman's charms, are positively prepared to forget woman's fascination for the sake of art ; to forego her triumphs in the world, in society ; to declare yourself the votary of art — the painting-room a cloister, secluded from all other thoughts — the devotion of a nun to holy vows. ANGELICA. A nun ! SIB JOSHUA. My dear lady, the fervent artist should, above all things, avoid the distractions of the heart. Well enough for other women, but fatal snares for the artist ; the common cares of hfe quickly invade the soul, and drive out the nobler thoughts. Let other women marry if they will — the artist should never marry 1 Tell me that you have forsworn all weakness of the affections. ANGELICA. I have, Sir-Joshua ; I have .cast away all such folly; I live for art alone. SIE JOSHUA. Let me grasp your hand on that assurance. (Holds her hand.) It clears away aU obstacles from the path of fame. (With fervour. ) , My heart beats with yours ! We are animated by one common feeling, you and I. We are content to live for nothing but our noble profession — sympathetic bond — sister, brother — in this common link. ANGELICA. Sister, if you so honour me ; but pupil rather. Teach me ; I am very humble in the sense of my own deficiency. Oh 1 that it might be my privilege to watch the growth of 24 ANGELICA. your great works— the untouched canvas, already aglow ia your mind's eye with glorious purpose— the gradual progress from the first brush touch to the crowning triumph I SIB JOSHUA. Ah, Miss Angel, your presence would be perpetual inspiration — sunlight to my soul. I feel assured that the sacred flame burns in our hearts ! I can refrain no longer ; I will confess the new secret which Alls my heart with joy. ANGELICA (aside). A confession at last. SIE JOSHUA. Listen, you shall know all. Spirit of turpentine ANGELICA. Turpentine I SIR JOSHUA. Heated to boiling-point, pure white wax ; boil together for ten minutes— that's all. ANGELICA. All? SIR JOSHUA. Delicious vehicle I The very thought of it fiUs the soul with delight. ANGELICA (aside). Varnish and the soul I (Aloud.) The very compound I have been seeking in vain. My poor " Arcadia " looks so dull and dark. SIR JOSHUA. Let us see. You are always so modest with regard to your own work. I love modesty in an artist ; diffidence is always pleasing. (They go up to canvas.) Excellent progress 1 Charming sentiment, and colour very pleasant ; a little glazing in due course. ACT I. 25 ANGELICA. But full of errors, alas I SIR JOSHUA. Not so — not so. Ay — one moment. The drawing of that arm — something amiss. I'll show you. A bit of chalk. (Angelica offers chalk to Sir Joshua ) No ; you take it. I want you to make the alteration. You see what I mean ? ANGELICA. I can't, indeed ; I'm SIB JOSHUA. I'll guide your hand. (Takes her hand in his.) .Tust SO. Why, how your hand trembles — my arm — your Avhole frame trembles 1 Oh! Miss Kauffmann— Angel — if it were only mine to guide you — to guide you always ! Tell me, could you be content with my guidance in art ? ANGELICA. Content ? No ; happy — proud, and very happy. (Stones are thrown at window, she starts away, listening intently.) SIR JOSHUA. Eh ? What's that ? FERSEN (outside). Miss Kauffmann ! Miss Kauffmann 1 SIB JOSHUA. A man's voice I ANGELICA. This is too scandalous and shameful I (Lady Margaret enters B., Eauffmann enters L.) LADY MARGARET. What is that noise outside ? Thieves at this hour — im- possible I 26 ANGELICA. ANGELICA. Not thieves, Lady Margaret ; it is only Count Stross- man's impertinent valet. LADY MARGAEET (with concealed exultation). What, that handsome young man who has been sitting to you as a model for " Arcadia " ? A model turned into a lover 1 — but you attract everybody. ANGELICA. Nonsense, Lady Margaret ! The insolent fellow has been forbidden the house at my desire, but he stUl dares to persecute me in this odious way — insanity, I suppose. LADY MARGARET. The insanity of love I KAUFFMANN. Mad or sane, the cur shall be whipped off the premises. Where are the servants ? ANGELICA. No, father ; let him say what he has to say. There must be no concealment ; my reputation demands a public vindication. (Goes to window and throws it open, Fersen is discovered crouched down on his knees.) Come in, sir, since you have dared to seek my presence in this unwarrantable manner I (Fersen rises and enters ; he is dazed at the presence of the other persona.) FERSEN (to Angelica). Lady, for Heaven's sake, a word to you in private ! ANGELICA. In private 1 No ; speak out, sir ! Why did you venture here ? You have been abeady turned out of the house on account of your impertinence. ACT I. 27 FERSEN. I dare not speak openly ; I can only speak to you alone. ANGELICA. I say, you shall speak openly — I am compromised by your conduct. FERSEN (in low tone to Angelica). I came to save you. ANGELICA (repeating in loud tone). You came to save me ? What do you mean ? Speak plainly, I say. FERSEN (in low tone). Do not go to Count Strossman's supper. ANGELICA (in loud tone). " Do not go to Count Strossman's supper 1" Are you mad ? Why not ? Everyone is going — a large party of my friends — aU the world I Your words are absurd. FERSEN. Do not go, I beg and pray; nay, listen to me. For mercy's sake 1 if you only knew ANGELICA. Silence, sir 1 not one word more I This is some sense- less excuse framed for the naoment. You know you came here to persecute me with your ridiculous suit — you, a valet 1 For this insolent foUy, I have already prayed your pardon from Count Strossman. I was wrong ; the Count shall be informed of this new impertinence. Go, sir, at once I KAUFPMANN. At once, you insolent scoundrel ! (Snatches up maulstick, and rushes on Fersen.) 28 ANGELICA. ANGELICA (trying to restrain her father). Fathei', no violence ! Kauffmann strikes Fersen. With a burst of indignation, Fers"n wrests the stick from Kauffmann, who retires back, half-drawing his sword. Fersen breaks the stink across his knee, restrains himself, and drops the two pieces gently at the feet of Angelica.) FERSEN. Oh, Miss Kauffmann, may you never have cause to repent that blow I Mad — yes, mad ! (HuiTies out of the room by door C.) KAUFFMANN (to Sir Joshua). Sir Joshua, I trust — the conduct of this insolent menial — my daughter's reputation risked in this wanton way by a madman SIR JOSHUA (coldly). Sir, Miss Kauffmann's honour requires no vindication in such a contemptible matter. (To Lady Margaret.) My Lady Margaret, it must be time to start for the theatre. (Offers his arm to Lady Margaret.) LADY MARGABET. Miss Reynolds is waiting for us in the drawing-room. SIR JOSHUA (bowing with ceremony to Angelica.) Miss Kauf&nann, I have the honour to wish you good- evening. (Sir Joshua leads out Lady Margaret in stately manner, Angelica and her father watch their exit in silence.) KAUFFMANN. My chUd, but for that scoundrel, " Lady Reynolds"! ANGELICA. Nay, your daughter — ^happiness enough for Angelica. (She throws herself into his arms. CURTAIN. ACT II. COUNT DE HORNE. SCENE. Ante-room in Count Strossman's mansion at Chelsea. C, large entrance with double doors from a corridor leading from the hall of the house. R. (2nd entrance) large entrance with double doors to supper-room. L. (2nd entrance) corresponding entrance to drawing-room. L. (1st entrance) panel door, being a secret entrance from garden. The whole scone is brilli.ntly lighted for the reception of guests. On each side of centre entrance are handsome girandoles with lights and long cut-glass pendant spikes and balls. Table R., settee L. The room is handsomely furnished in the style of the period. On rise of curtain, two men-servants and two women-servants are discovered dressed in rich costumes as mock guests ; they are talking and laughing, and displaying their clothes. Strossman enters R. : the servants stand before him in attitudes of constraint. STROSSMAN (surveys them). Excellent, I declare. I scarcely recognise you as my servants. Bear yourselves a little more easily, and you'll pass for persons of distinction ; a clever dash of imitation and the outer garb, why, you might be all of noble birth. (Aside.) Ay, menials at soul, and yet dress and manners serve as often as not for a disguise in the world of fashion. (Aloud.) Now, my mock guests, attend to my instructions. When my fair guest arrives, echo all my words of admiration, praise when I praise, laugh when I laugh, foUow my moods as they vary. Eemember, the highest expression of honour and respect to Miss Kauffmann is the keynote 30 ANGELICA. of your conduct. Play your parts well ; you know I have a liberal hand. (Hans enters booted and spurred.) Ah, Hans ! have you delivered the letters, postponing the supper, to all the invited guests at the theatre ? HANS. Yes, Count. 8TE0S8MAN. Everybody ? — are you sure 1 It would destroy my scheme if any one of them turned up. HANS. Everybody. STEOSSMAN. And Miss Kauffmann ? HANS. Safely on the road. As soon as I had placed her in your coach, I galloped forward to prepare you for her arrival. STEOSSMAN. Admirable I. To-morrow, count on your reward. HANS. More than this. Count, I intercepted a letter just written by Persen to Miss Kauffmann ; I thought it might mean mischief. (Gives letter to Strossman, whicli he opens and reads.) STEOSSMAN. It does mean mischief — a warning in plain terms, dis- closing the whole story of my design I Curse the fellow ! He dares to stand between me and my purpose I The fool 1 he shall rue his foUy before we part. Where is Fersen 1 ACT II. 81 HANS. In the audienoe-ohamber, waiting your Excellency's orders. STEOSSMAN. Hans, one word. (Whispers to Hans.) Fersen may be dangerous ; he must be made sure of for to-night ; to-morrow he shall be shipped off under hatches to Sweden. Let him be secured in the tower chamber ; he'U be safe there. HANS. The secret records, your Excellency ? STROSSMAN. They are under lock and key. He can do no harm. Go to him at once ; say I require the last despatch from Stockholm. Here is the key of the door ; (Gives key) open the door for him, and when he enters the room, turn the key quickly — he'll sleep comfortably till morning. (Loud knock at hall door.) Ah, the fair artist comes ! You know my directions. Have you the phial ready, and the wine ? (Hans shows phial.) Now, be quick, and place Persen under lock and key. (Voice of servant iu hall : Miss Angelica Kaufimau !) Victory of love I in another minute she will be safely in my power 1 (Voice in con-idor : Miss Angelica KauiFmann !) (The folding doors C. are flung open ; Angelica appears in doorway, the mock guests arise and bow ; Angelica curtsies at entrance, Strossman advances towards her. Feracn suddenly appears iu door- way and tries to stop Angelica's entrance, ) F E B S E N (to Angelica), Do not enter 1 You are lost ! My letter ! — you had my letter an hour ago ? 32 ANGELICA. ANGELICA (with indignation to Fersen). Leave me, sir 1 Your conduct becomes unbearable. (She advances with indignation to Strossman.) Count Strossman, I am obliged at last seriously to invoke your interference. This young man's conduct is most scandalous I This is the third time to-day that I have had to submit to his insolent behaviour 1 PBRSEN. Hear me, for Heaven's sake, or you are lost I STROSSMAN. Silence, sir 1 Ho, there I (Two servants stand in doorway.) ANGELICA. Count, I ask for your protection ; my "character is actually compromised by this man's persistence ; he has no right to address me in such a manner. STROSSMAN (to Fersen). You hear, sir — ^leave this room 1 FERSEN. Not -while Miss Kauffmann remains here. STROSSMAN (sharply to Hans). Fool ! Deal with him — no delay. (Hans and the two men seize Fersen, and drag him struggling towards the door.) F BBS EN (speaking with difficulty). Miss Kauffmann, I tell you, you are in danger — shame — disgrace 1 STROSSMAN. Stop the cursed fellow's tongue 1 (Hans forces handkerchief into Fersen's mouth, and he is dragged out by Hans and servants. The foldii g-doors are closed after them.) An insolent cur 1 A young man I have befriended in his ACT II. 83 misfortunes. Madness ! His head must be turned — that's the only explanation for such wild folly. (To Angelica.) Dear madam, a thousand apologies for this untoward reception. I promise you that Fersen will not annoy you any more by his presence this evening ; to-morrow he will be shipped off to Sweden. And now, permit me to intro- duce you to these good friends of mine, who are here to do honour to your artistic fame. Ladies and gentlemen. Miss Angelica Kauffmann, the renowned artist. Count Rupert and the Countess of Stralsound ; Count Borgen ; the Countess Gerssen. (They all bow with great ceremony to Angelica, who duly acknowledges their salutations.) And now, fair lady, you must let me tell you that these guests of mine are great connoisseurs in art ; and I need not say that we are all impatience to see the sketch you so graciously promised to execute for my gratiiication this .evening. ANGELICA. I have it here, Count, according to my promise ; but I am afraid it is unworthy of your liberaUty. If you could have granted me a little longer time • (Gives sketch to Strosamau, who examines it intently.) STE0S3MAN. Most lovely ! Look, ladies and gentlemen ! (Mock guests gather round Strossman.) Bright, charming fancy ! A dance of nymphs and satj'rs, with old Pan and his pipes for music, and a whole chorus of delicious little Cupids in the clouds ! Delightful inven- tion and charming execution I And now I pray you to compare Miss Kauffmann's design with the design which Mr. Cipriani has furnished. (Takes up a sketch from table, and holds the two sketches together for inspection.) To my thinking, there is no comparison : the One is full of 34 ANGELICA. graceful feeling, light and bright in conception ; the other is laboured in design, and heavy in execution. Ladies and gentlemen, I may be a partial judge — no one can be impartial who has the honour of knowing Miss Kauffmann — it shall be for your unbiased judgment to decide which sketch bears the pahn. Mr. Cipriani or Miss Kauffmann ? — give your verdict. MOCK GUESTS. Miss Kauf&nami 1 Miss Kauffmann 1 STROSSMAN. There's the award ; you have won, fair artist, as I knew you would. Ho ! there. The wine of triumph. You must know, fair lady, that it is our Swedish custom to pledge the victor in all contests. (Hans enters bearing a silver jug, followed by a servant with six glasses on a salver.) Fill it to the brim. The ftdlest measure is the measure of our admiration for a great artist. (Hnns fills the glasses, which servant hands to mock guests and Stross- man.) ANGELICA. But your other friends. Count — Sir Joshua, Dr. John- son — who will be here directly ? They may prefer Mr. Cipriani's more solid work to my light fancies. STROSSMAN. They will never reverse the voice of Sweden. Fair artist, Sweden drinks to your triumph. Miss Angelica Kauffmann ! (Strossman and mock guests drink.) O M N B S. Miss Kauffmann and her victory 1 (Hans takes salver with remaining glass from servant, and in sight of tlie audience pours phial into glans, which he offers on bended knee to Angelica) ACT II. 35 ANGELICA. No, I thank you, pray pardon me; I will not drink now. I scarcely ever touch wine. STEOSSMAN. Our national custom, fair lady. You must graciously honour us by acknowledging om- pledge. ANGELICA. If you insist, it would be churlish to refuse. My humble thanks for yom- gracious compliments and honour ; would they were better deserved 1 (Drinks small portion of the wine.) STROSSM AN'. A full draught, fair artist, is the measure of your acknowledgment. ANGELICA. Be it so ; my lips shall not belie my heart. (Drinks off wine.) STROSSMAN. A thousand thanlcs to you for so graciously honouring the customs of old Sweden. ANGELICA. What a charming house you possess. Count Strossmaji ! Everything around us testities to yom- love of art. STROSSMAN. ily house and all its contents are ever at Miss Ka\iff- iiiann's clisposal. ANGELICA. You are far too gracious 1 STROSSMAN. Ah, fair lady, I have manv bright things to please bright eyes. Y'ou must see my diamonds — the family jewels — set in our old northern setting — lovely goldwork ! You 36 ANGELICA. shall choose what you like in honoTir of this happy evening and your artistic triumph. ANGELICA, I could not, indeed ; you have already doubly paid me for my poor work. But our friends, what can have detained them? Surely the play must be over by this time. STROSSMAN. What friends, fair lady ? ANGELICA. The friends iavited to your supper. STBOSSMAN. I have only one friend who has been gracious enough to honour me with her presence. ANGELICA. But they are coming — Sir Joshua and his sister. Lady Margaret, Dr. Johnson, Mr. Bartolozzi, Mr. Boswell, and a large party ? STROSSMAN. Fair lady, I repeat, you are my only guest. ANGELICA. But they were invited— they are coming, are they not '? STROSSMAN. In your special honour, I have put ofif receiving those worthy persons — we sup together. ANGELICA. What do you mean ? STROSSMAN. Have you not long ago guessed my meaning ? Have you not felt that I loved you 1 ACT II. 37 ANGELICA. Loved me ! STROSSMAN. Deeply, passionately, devotedly. ANGELICA. No, no ; this is some jest, some ill-timed jest 1 STROSSMAN. No jest, on my honour — your devoted lover. Can you have been so blind ? ANGELICA. Let me go — this moment, I say. It is a disgrace to remain in this house I STROSSMAN. Angelica, my sv^reet love, be reasonable. You know I cannot offer you marriage — the law of Sweden is in- exorable, it forbids the marriage of a nobleman and a, commoner. You cannot be my wife ; but have no fear, there wiU be no scandal in my love : my guest for a few hours, and then you will return home in safety — only be discreet, and the world wiU never know the story of my happiness. ANGELICA. My shame ! Villain 1 scoundrel I It was true, then — that devoted young man, whose warning I derided in my foolish faith and innocence. Let me go, I say, or I will denounce you in the presence of these ladies and gentle- men. STROSSMAN. My servants — my creatures, dressed up in your honour. ANGELICA. Impossible ! Your servants 1 Is your villainy as deep as this ? Servants — yes ; but women — men — with human hearts. (Going towards mock guests.) Women, I appeal to you as a woman ; save me— protect 38 ANGELICA. me from that man, I pray —I pray 1 Think if I were your sister — disgrace, shame, horror I STROSSMAN. Servants, leave the room. (Anffslioa trios to oling to tha women, but tlioy put her away and loavo tlie room ; she dinga to ono of the men.) ANGELICA. Men, as you are men — a woman, I beg and pray for protection. Do not leave me — do not leave me helpless in that man's hands 1 STBOSSMAN (tomen). Leave the room, I say 1 (The two men thrust Angelica aside and leave the room.) Close the doors. (The doors are all closed.) ANGELICA. No, no ; have mercy 1 Let me go. This is some cruel trick to try me. STROSSMAN. AngeUoa, sweetest woman, (Approaches her) we are alone. "Why so coy ? ANGELICA. Do not come near me, I am dangerous I I have strength enough to tear you in pieces ! Heaven will give me ten- fold strength. STROSSMAN. Nay, sweet one, fear no violence ; I abhor violence. I shall not win you with violence. I am a gentleman, not a vulgar ruffian. ANGELICA. Then let me go. STROSSMAN. You shall go ; I promise that. ACT II. J!9 AXGBLIC A. Now — at onee I STllOSSM AX. Impassible. If you left now, you woull arrive lioins insensible with sleep. ANGELICA. Sleep ! What do you mean ? ST ROSS MAX. A soothing draught ANGELICA. That wine ! STROSSMAS. A harmless sedative. The effect wUl quickly pass away. An hour's sleep — quiet, unconscious sleep. AXQELICA. That accursed wine ! That hellish draught ! Villain ! inhuman monster ! (In clianged tone, casting herself at his feet.) No, no ; have mercy ! You must have mercy. Before Heaven, I claim mercy. A miserable triumph — a woman, helpless, senseless, dead with sleep, unconscious, a victim to shame, disgrace ! No man could do this. The triumph of a fiend, not a man ! Such things cannot be in God's world. (Sinks down exhausted.) STBOSSMAN. You are unduly excited ; sleep awhile, fairest lady — quiet sleep, that's all. I will leave you now. This is an inner room. Your voice cannot travel beyond these walls, so noise is useless. Sleep is inevitable — gentle, soothing, luUing sleep I (Exit K.) 40 ANGELICA. ANGELICA (raising her head and gazing round). Sleep 1 sleep I Alone— but he will return. Oh, horror ! trapped, vilely trapped ! There must be some escape, some merey. (Rlsea and flies to centre door and knocks.) I -will give gold — gold to anyone who will save me ; gold — what you will. No answer — no answer ; all's in vain. No ; that other door 1 (Goes to door L. ; knocks ) Save me ! I will give you gold — all — everything I possess — only save me — a woman — a woman's honour 1 Mercy ! mercy 1 No answer — no hope I (Goes back to settee, flings herself upon it, clasping her hands over her face, then rises with look of despair.) Impossible I it cannot be. But sleep !— he said sleep ! Sleep will deliver me, a helpless victim, into his accursed arms I Oh, cruel sleep which wakes to shame 1 Is sleep stealing on me— the eyelids heavy ? Not yet ; but it wiU come. The accursed wine will work its vile purpose, coursing through the veins, duUing the healthy beatings of the heart ; and then the horrible sleep wiU come — slowly, very slowly, like a mist creeping over brain and eyes, stealing away every sense, even the burning sense of shame I And then ? — oh, Heaven, senseless — helpless — no escape 1 What help ? No help 1 Only two things remain — dishonour or death. Death — be it death I How ? how ? Death somehow. How to seek death — some weapon I What weapon ? (Steals round the room seeking intently.) No knife, no weapon, no help to death ! Oh, Heaven, grant me this mercy, that I may escape the horror of that shame. Nothing — nothing to rid me of life, and the brain grows dull — sleep will come before I can find death 1 Death will be too late to save me. (A pause ; then, suddenly looking round :) Saved I saved I (Flies to girandole, breaks oft one of the spikes of glass, feels the splintered point.) ACT II. 41 Sharp, lOse a lancet. Saved 1 Thank Heaven, I can die I (Staggora back to setteo and aits, placing fragment of glass by her side.) Lie there, close at hand, and when I feel the mist rising in my brain, why, then — then — quick, to my heart 1 So easy ; one inch to reach this beating thing of life, and then it stops — death — ay, stops for ever. But, strength for the blow — have I strength ? My hand trembles 1 (Cries.) I am only a woman. And life — my father, my poor father, alone in the world ; and ambition — to die now — now that I know what my hands can do, my brain invent — fame, honours, praise, flattery. Life's very sweet, and now the full cup of success is at my lips, and death to dash it down I I shall never have the strength for the blow. I cannot die — I cannot die ! Life — I must have life, not cold, pulseless death — breathing, beating, burning Ufe. I cannot die 1 (Clasps her liands in despair over her face. Noise ab panel door ; Angelica starts up, and seizes the glass splinter.) Who's there '? (Fersen enters.) Approach one step, and I kiU myself before your eyes. I can die— death, not shame. A sharp splinter of glass, and I die at your feet. F E E S B N (in low tone). Hush ! a friend. But silence, for Heaven's sake 1 ANGELICA (perceiving Fersen). You ! What you ! — you ! Heaven's mercy 1 (Flies to him, and clings convulsively to him.) You wiU save me. They have given me drugged wine. When the horrible sleep comes, watch me, guard me — stand at my aide — save my honour. Helpless, senseless ; but in your arms I shall be safe. 42 ANGELICA. P E R S B N. Softlj', softly; we shall be heavtl, and then they will tear you from me. Sleep will not come. AJJGELICA. But the wine ? FERSEN. I changed the vile drug, and replaced it by some harmless mixture. Be assured, they cannot steal your senses. ANGELICA. My protector ! my guardian ! But how did you get into this room ? FERSEN. I was locked into a tower chamber. I descended by the ivy. ANGELICA. At the danger of your life I Oh, brave and generous ! On my knees — (Kueels at his feet) I thank you — poor words 1 — for a great devotion. Yo\i have saved me from a fate worse than death— saved me from the horror of a polluted life ; and in my ignorance and my pride I have treated you with contempt and scorn — my father, myself — and yours was the true, noble heart which risked all for my sake, in despite of outrage, and insult, and cruel blows ! What reward ? what reward ? FERSEN (raising her). Oh, Angel, pure and noble, my highest reward is to serve you, to save you from dishonour and shame. A wide gulf between us, but always the idol of my heart to reverence and worship ! ANGELICA. Too generous ! too noble I I am a poor debtor for a priceless gift. But, say, can we fly from this horrible place ? — the way you entered ? ACT II. 43 F E K S E N. Impossible ! the house is surrounded by Strossman's eople. I have devised a better plan : a little patience, a little more endurance, and all danger will be at an end, all scandal will be averted — you will leave this house as you have entered it, without reproach. (Strossman enters R.) STRllSSM AX. Scoundrel ! you have dared to return ! FERSEN. Scoundrel in your teeth ! Approach tliis lady, and you die. STROSSMAN (calls). Ho ! there — servants ! ANGELICA (to Fereen). Do not leave me ; I am very weak, all nerve has gone ; and that vile wretch, with horrible purpose in his eyes — the fasciaation of a snake ! Save me ! save me ! (Two servants and Hans stand in door R) FERSEN. Keep heart, dear lady ; I will die ere they injure you. STROSSMAN. Secure that fellow quickly ! FERSEN (draws). At your peril, men ; you know my skill at fence. STROSSMAN. A hundred pounds to the man who disarms him. FERSEN. Death, not gold, you cvu-s ! take death for your reward. Hans and the two men diuw and make a dasli at Fersen, but fall back awed.) 44 ANGELICA. STROSSMAN (calls). More men, I say ; disarm him at a rush 1 (Two servants enter door L.) FERSBN. More cowards 1 Then the more to die. (They again attack Fersen ; the two men L. rush in and seize him from the back, and hold him in their arms.) STEOSSMAN (with exultation). Ah, my fair lady, you will not escape my toils. Victory at last I (A loud knock at hall door — consternation and surpnse.) FERSBN. No, scoundrel ; she is saved — saved I STROSSMAN. What does this mean ? ■ FERSEN. Your guests are arriving ; go, and greet them. STROSSMAN. Curses on your infernal meddhng ! FERSEN. My counter-plot, which has destroyed your accursed scheme. (Voice outside, " Sir Joshua Reynolds t" The men release Fersen, who turns to Angelica. Strossman with anger goes up stage.) (To Angelica.) You are saved, dear lady 1 Bear yourself bravely — make a great effort ; no one will ever know of this shameful insult — no one must ever know. Your honour is without reproach. You have arrived a little before the other guests, that's the explanation. Bravely ; sit on the sofa ; you wiU soon recover your self-possession. AU is well now; you are safe. I am only the valet Fersen once ACT II. 45 more. I shall watch over your safety, but, be assured, you shaU not be compromised by my presence. (He retires frum her, and goes out R. ; she sinks on settee.) (Hans enters centre door, announced, *' Sir Joshua Reynolds 1" who' appears in doorway C. Strossman advances to receive him ; they bow with ceremony.) SIR JOSHUA. A thousand thanks, my dear Count, for your kind attention in sending notes to the theatre to remind us of this charming engagement. Very unnecessary — an iuvita- tion to Count Strossman's house could never be forgotten by the honoured recipient. (Loud knock at hall door, voice outside announces, " Mr. Barto- lozzi !"') We are all rather late. Much excitement at the theatre. I can assure you that " She Stoops to Conquer " is a great success, a true wholesome Enghsh comedy. If I can claim to be a judge, it's a play that will run twenty-five nights, at the very least, and even longer, I shouldn't wonder — ay, and be played again a dozen times next season. (Hans enters and announces " Mr. Bartolozzi !" Bartulozzi enters, Stross- man receives him ; they bow with ceremony.) BARTOLOZZI. Well, Count, Dr. Goldsmith has had a great triumph. I'm in love with Miss Hardcastle, a true English girl — fresh, genuine nature — the sweetest girl I ever met. And then the fun of the plot ! As for Dr. Johnson, why, his big laugh was heard all over the house— he actually thundered with laughter. (Hans enters C, and announces "Lady M.irg.iret Forbes! Miss Reynolds !" They enter ; Strossman receives them with great cere- mony.) MISS REYNOLDS. Well, Count, the great Doctor was right, after all. 46 ANGELICA. STROSSMAN. Madam, I humbly bow ; your very unlearned servant was wrong. (Aside.) Twice in one day that accursed fellow has defeated my purpose, but the third time I shall be quits with him ; and that prudish minx shall be conquered, let the cost be what it may. (Miss Reynolds comes down stage to Angelica.) MISS REYNOLDS. Ah, Angelica, you ought to have been at the play with us. Joshua has been as solemn as an owl, thinking and moping all the evening. If you muddle it again, I'll never forgive you. It's now or never for the nimble "Yes." (She turns up stage to Bartolozzi in conversation, and presently they retire to the drawing-room ; Lady Margaret converses with Stross- man, Reynolds comes down stage and approaches Angelica.) SIR JOSHUA. Ah, Miss Angel, so you arrived before us ? ANGELICA (with effort). Yes, Sir Joshua, a short time. The play must have been very late. (Aside.) Oh, if he only knew the agony I have endured 1 SIR JOSHUA. A most amusing comedy. I wish you could have been present ; but you were right, art before all else. (A pause.) LADY MARGARET (to Strossman). Look at them, I say ; she attracts him like a magnet. How will you avert this hateful marriage ? It's too pro- voking 1 You talk as women talk, and do nothing. ACT II. 47 S T R O S S M A X (to Lady Jlaigaret). Nothing, you say 1 Ay, but I shall. The second string — she loves my valet Fersen. A few minutes' patience, you wiLl see. (To Hans.) In the drawing-room, Hans. This way, my lady. (Leads Lady Margaret into the di-awing-room. Loud knock at hall door. Voice outside, " Mr. Topham Beauclerk, Mrs. Montague, Mr. Boswell !") SIR JOSHUA (to Angelica). Pardon me, but I'm sure you are suffering, your coun- tenance is so troubled. You look as if you had passed through some great ordeal, some terrible conflict. Confide in me ; let me help you. ANGELICA. K othing, nothing, I assure you. Well, it's very absurd, but that little sketch for the ball invitations — it cost me some trouble ; perhaps I was not quite in the mood for artistic work, however insignificant. (Hans conducts two gentlemen and a lady past 1he centre entrance — voice of Hans in drawing-room announcing " Mr. Topham Beauclerk, Mrs. Montague, Mr. Boswell !") SIR JOSHUA. No, no, my dear lady ; the sketch doesn't accormt for it. Be frank with me ; perhaps my manner to you when we parted this afternoon — the ridiculous fracas with that impertinent valet — my manner might have been some- what constrained, or even cold. I have thought much this evening at the theatre — ^thoughts too deep for words. I have scarcely even laughed at dear Goldie's clever fun. ANGELICA. Indeed, Sir Joshua, it is not Ln the shghtest degree j'our fault ; jovT manner is always most kind, most helpful to 48 ANGELICA. my poor strivings in art. You are a sure friend, in wliose honest opinion I can trust — a learned adviser in all my difficulties. SIR JOSHUA. Ay, ay, but let me be something more than that. Listen to me. Miss Angel — thoughts find words now. Let it be from friendship to love, and then from love to marriage — ray wife 1 ANGELICA (with exultation). Your wife I your wife ! SIR JOSHUA. Yes ; my dear, lionoured wife ! ANGELICA (in changed tones). A great honour — a great honour 1 SIR JOSHUA. Love, not honour ! A wife ! all is merged in that sacred name. ANGELICA. Yes, honour — always honour : the wife of Sir Joshua Eej'nolds I (Starts up ; aside.) Oh, strange short hour of a life — ^from lowest depths of shame to highest honour and reverence. SIR JOSHUA. Dearest lady. Angel mine, grant me a gracious answer. ANGELICA, It is aU so sudden — do not press me ; I cannot answer now. I have lived hitherto for art alone. I cannot be so quickly faithless to my old allegiance. I deeply appreciate the honour you have done me. I am very unworthy. Nay, let me call you friend — always a friend — a valued friend I ACT II. 49 SIR J S H U A (in oonstrained tones). Be it so, Miss Angel ; a friend, then — always a friend. Perhaps one day, at least, a friend not without hope. (With a stately bow, Sir Joshua goes into drawing-room.) ANGELICA. Eejected! and my father's anxious purpose of a wise and eligible marriage destroyed by jny own act. If he had made his offer this afternoon, I should have been his — saved from this past agony of shame ; but he makes his offer at a moment when love, mad, wild love, has entered my heart with resistless power. Oh, hero of noblest dreams of chivalrj- — -true nobleman by virtue of noblest reverence for women — -brave, unselfish, sell-denying — come, if you will, and claim my heart. Alas ! the valet Fersen, too proud to bend, too modest to claim a reward which he has won. He will never stoop to ask for a recompense. ^Tiy, then, it is for me to bend before a noble nature, for me to fling away the false trammels of society, to claim his heart of chivalrj' and devotion for my own. (Fersen enters R., and comes down to Angelica.) FERSBN. Honoured lady, I have secured a coach for you. You will be guarded by two devoted comrades ; they wiU con- duct you safely home. To linger here must be an intoler- able agony. You have been seen by all the company ; you can safely withdraw on the plea of indisposition. I pray you to let this evening be blotted from your mind. You must forget all the persons who have been involved in this past wickedness — ay, whether for good or evil, it is well and right that you should forget it all — too infamous a recollection for an honourable woman's memory ! ANGELICA. One — wUl never be forgotten. 50 ANGELICA. i?ERSEN. Even that one, I say, who bitterly repents his mad presumption this morning ; the valet Fersen, how should he have dared ? ANGELICA. Let hun dare. FERSEN. "SVhat ! may he h(^e ? ANGELICA. Yes — hope. FEESBN. Hope to win a name and fame ? But these will come too late — you will have married, and fame will be a bitter mockery. ANGELICA. I wiU never marry — my solemn pledge — so long as I may hope to become your wife, be that time long or short. FERSEN. Angelica, my angel 1 Too much joy, too much joy for heart and brain 1 it will kiU me ! But your father ? — ^he will compel you to marry. ANGELICA. My pledge to you; I am strong enough to resist my father's importunities. I will reject every suitor till my great hope be at an end, and then — what matter ? — my father may have his wiU — I wiU marry at his command — but not my heart — not my heart. FERSEN. Oh, glorious hope ! Heaven's fullest blessing to redress the hardships of my life — nay. Heaven's mercy I It was for this I lost title and honour ; it was for this I was denied name and heritage. Oh, glorious recompense I— a loss by which I have gained the noblest woman in the world 1 ACT II. 51 Dear plighted wife ! then some time I may press you to my heart, some time kiss those hps with the betrothal kiss — Heaven's blessing on a sacred pledge. (Servant entere R., crosses stage to L., and, standing in door- way, announces, "Supper is served." Confused murmui-s in drawing-room L., and cries of " Fersen ! Fei-sen !") ^^'hat's that ? "^Tiat do they want with me in this moment of joy? (Voice of Strossman followed by other voices, " Long live the Count de Home ! Long live the Count de Home !") Count de Home ! Heaven, is it possible ? Not now — not now ; happiness gained for a moment and lost for ever. (Strossman enters L. with Lady Margaret on his arm, followed by Sir Joshua conducting a lady, Bartolozzi, ^Miss Reynolds and other guests. Strossman on seeing Fersen stops in centre of stage and addresses him.) STROSSMAX. Ah, Fersen, I have sent to request your presence. I have a great announcement to make : no longer Fersen my valet. Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honour to present to you Count de Home — in the kingdom of Sweden, among our nobles, the third in rank ! (To Fersen.) I have just received an important despatch — the Royal Courts have recognised the nobility of your mother's descent : you are restored to the famUy titles and honours. I am ordered by the despatch to treat you with the honour due to your rank — money, ample credit, henceforth at your command. I am your humble servant, at your bidding. (Bows ) Long live the Count de Home ! (Guests echo the cry. Strossm:m aijd Lady Margaret pass into the supper-room —the other guests gather round Fersen with congratula- tions ; they gradually retire into supper-room R., and Ftrsen is left alone with Angelica.) AXGELICA. Count de Home, a thousand congratulations ! You are worthy of your great title — noble by birthright, as you have ever been by nature. 52 ANGELICA. F E R S B N. Alas ! you know not what you say. Despair ! The glorious hope is lost for ever! Oh, dearest ladyl — oh, plighted wife 1 snatched from my arms as surely as if Death had flung his relentless dart— I can never marry youl ANGELICA. As fatal as that ? In mercy, is there no hope ? FBRSBN. Those cruel laws of arrogance and pride divide us for ever. ANGELICA. Defy them ! Love's defiance 1 What care we for laws? FERSEN. Impossible 1 — alas, impossible ! ANGELICA. Impossible ? Not that fatal word I There must be some remedy. FERSEN. No remedy but shame. You cannot be my wife 1 I dare not whisper that vile word " mistress." (Angelica starts back.) Have no fear ; honour shall divide us, not shame. And yet — oh, maddening thought to lose you now — to lose you for ever I Your presence is so dear and sweet to me ; Angelica, we cannot part. Nay, dearest; some sure refuge, unknown to the world — alone — together — always true ! What am I saying ? An insult 1 I read it in your face. Bid me go — no ; tell me to stay. Nay, as between us, a holy love, no shame — always honourable, always noble in my eyes — the idol of my heart 1 ANGELICA. The idol of your heart, but dragged down to shame by your own hands — nothing left to worship — a woman to ACT II. 53 F E R S E X. ^^Tiat have I said ? Is the curse of this den of infamy laid upon me, tainting with dishonour every ^^•ord of my lips ■? Bid me go, I say — speak, and I will obey. Nay, do not speak — not that fatal word, which divides us for ever. Oh, sweetest love, do we live for the world — this false, cruel world ? We Uve for one another. The world of our love is large enough for life — a kingdom of happiness without bounds ! What's the world to us "? ANGELICA. Nothing. FERSEN (with passion). Then mine for ever— queen of my world ! AXGELICA (shrinking back). I said the world was nothing — scorn, dishonour, bitter words, a heavy burden of shame. I could bear it all before the world — my love for you would give me strength ; but in your sight, alone with you, I could never bear that burden, I'm too weak for that — fallen in the eyes of the man I love ! Loved, I know it, but pitied. The pity of your eyes would kill me ! the crimson of shame would dye my face, every kiss would burn my lips ! Our world a kingdom of disgrace, not happiness ! Go, if so it must be; let honour divide us, not shame. Go, I beg and pray — go, because I love you. FBKSEX. Forgive me for the words I have uttered. No safety for honour but in flight. (Murmurs in supper-room, "Miss KaufEmann.") They come to seek you. You will be safe among so many friends. Farewell — ^farewell for ever ! (Exit 1st entrance L. Angelica starts up dazed, and gazes after him.) 54 AJTGELICA. ANGELICA. It cannot be I Some fearful dream ! Lover — hus- band No ; snatched from my arms — like death 1 nay, worse than death — Hving, yet dead to me ! (Sinks down on settee ; Sir Joshiia appears at entrance B.) SIR JOSHUA. Miss Kauffmann ! Everyone is asking for Miss Kauff- mann! (He comes down stage.) CURTAIN. ACT III. SIR JOSHUA'S BRIDE. (Lapse of a month between Acts II. and III.) SCENE. Same as Act I. Lady Margaret Forbes discovered painting at easel. Strossman enters immediately after rise of curtain ; he bows to Lady Slargaret. LADY MAEGARET. Well, Count, these cobweb schemes of yours ? Time marches apace ; in three days Angelica will become the wife of Sir Joshua. steossman. But you admit that she loves De Home ? LADY MAEGARET. Youth before age and fame : I know it. She treats Sir Joshua, the man I adore with my whole heart and soul, as a second string to love's bow. Congratulations fall thick upon her, and proud smiles and blushes mantle her countenance — the bride of a great English artist; and then, as she averts her face from the crowd, tears gather in her eyes. STROSSMAN. So we hold the Zing of Hearts among our cards I LADY MARGARET. You harp for ever on the old string. Once more I say she cannot marry De Home. 56 ANGELICA. STE08SMAX. If they caimot marry, what harm in their meeting ? Urge that point on Miss Kauffmann, in mercy to the young Count. Let them meet in that full conviction — to refuse would be unheard-of cruelty ; no woman could deal so hardly with a hapless lover. Let them meet, I say, only once, and leave the rest to me. Sir Joshua shall be yours to wed — if you can win him ; Angehca will be mine, at my feet by to-morrow's sun. Have faith ; I never lose my game when I play for love. LADY MAEGAEET. Tell me this plan of yours — a mystery ? STEObSMAX. Nay, let me keep my secret. Well, a woman's heart — call it a harpsichord : I have the magic touch — a cumiing of my own — ^the keys are responsive to my wUl. Ensure me this interview, and give me free access to your house — it's all the help I need. I wiU retire to the library when I desire to be alone. LADY MAEGAEET. My house is at your command ; but pray avoid Angelica, your presence always seems to alarm her. STEOS-SMAN. A prejudice easily conquered ; she'll cling to me before long. „ „ (Enter servant. ) SEBVANT. ' Madame Blanche waits on your ladyship and Miss Kauffmann by appointment. (Exit servant.) LADY MAEGAEET. ' I must leave you. Count ; the dressmaker — the dresses for this hateful wedding ; you see, there is no time to be lost. ACT III. r,7 8TB0SSMAN. I said to-morrow ; no time shall be lost. (They bow ; Lady Margaret goes out.) Farewell, my lady ; the dressmaker has intervened most conveniently ; I want to be alone in this room for a few minutes. Angelica really loyes Fersen ; I knew it in the fiasco of that supper 1 I shan't fail twice. But she cannot wed him as a noble ; true, quite true, that's the law of Sweden — and he is a noble, as this decree shows (Draws parctiment document from his pocket) most conclusively, drawn in sound legal form, and pur- porting to be duly issued from the Boyal Chancery, but as yet not authenticated by royal seal. And now to find the seal — old Kauffinann's work-table ! (Goes to table near C. window with engraver's appliances on it, and a taper burning.) Ah, here we find it ; and the forged seal — here it is, (Takes up seal) and several test impressions — excellent as legal evidences of fraud. A good die-sinker, on my word ! Most oppor- tune that Mr. Bartolozzi was unable to execute the secret commission, and so transferred the work to his old friend. And now to seal the document. Ah, useful taper ! (Takes up wax, melts at candle, and seals document.) So 1 authenticated at last by the great seal of Sweden. Good workmanship, Mr. Kauffmann, but it's dangerous work to fabricate royal seals — the penalty is death, I fancy. Angelica, my goddess, have no fear ; I will save your father's life when he lies fast and close in Newgate Gaol. I win this coiip, Angelica, doubly sure — father and daughter in my grasp. (Listens.) All, the good old Kauffmann returns to his labours. I'U to my books in the library. (Exit into library. Enter Kauffmann, speaking back.) 58, ANGELICA. KAUPFMANN. One p3ep, my child, at the bridal dress when it is fitted on. Your old father is so happy, so happy ! (Turns to table.) I must to my work; Signor Bartolozzi will be here directly ; I promised that the seal should be ready to-day. But my child's wedding-dress — Sir Joshua's bride ; every fold must be worthy of his brush — sweeps of drapery in graceful lines ; and underneath no lay figure, dull and cold, but flesh and blood, a living picture for an artist's arms. (Bartolozzi enters.) Ah, the dear Bartolozzi ; you've come in the nick of time for a rare sight. BARTOLOZZI. Is the seal finished, old friend ? Business first. KAUFFMANN. Almost. (Takes up se iL) ' A little more pohsh, and I'm off to the ivory-turner. BARTOLOZZI. It must be delivered to-day. KAUFFMAXN. You're sure you hold a safe commission for its execu- tion ? It looks like some royal seal — a coat-of-arms and a crown — it would be forgery, would it not ? BARTOLOZZI. You can trust me. I hold the order for its execution from the Ambassador of the State to which it belongs, signed by his own hand. But this rare sight KAUFFMANN. Angelica in her wedding-dress. It's my design— a rich harmony of gold and bronze, yet sober. They are to go ACT III. 59 to church without fuss and parade, and they are to go off from the church down to Eichmond Hill for the honey- moon. Sir Joshua hates the thought of a gaping crowd. BARTOLOZZI. Well, old friend, it's a right good match for our Angelica. KAUFFMANN. Ay, ay, but for that cursed law of Sweden she might have been a great Countess. Poor young man ! I know how deeply he loves her — begs and prays me to let him see her for one last interview ; but Angehoa refuses to see him. BARTOLOZZI. Angelica is right — steadfast in her love and loyalty to Sir Joshua. KAUFFMANN. But a Countess — a Countess 1 She's the idol of my life! (Angelica enters.) Nothing too good or too noble for her ; she's worthy of the highest honour ! BARTOLOZZI. The hand of a great artist ! ANGELICA (coming down). A far greater honour than Angelica deserves. KAUFFMANN. Angehca, my angel. Now, Bartolozzi, gaze and praise. Grandly, my child— stately pose ; here, these folds — one moment. (Arranges her dress.) My design, but these dressmakers are not artists. StUl, the intention is not wholly lost, and the colour is all my own. 60 ANGELICA. BARTOLOZZl. A triumph, Kauffmann, worthy of Sir Joshua's magic brush ! KAUFFMANN. Worthy of a coronet, I say. ANGELICA. What are coronets to me ? We artists rise, if we can, and win our crowns of fame — patents given by our own hands. I am but a poor handmaid in art ; but he, the man I love, stoops from his vantage-ground, and raises me to share his name and fame. Can kings give higher honour ? A husband to esteem and love, a master to instruct, and the world will say of Angelica's work, " the sweetness was her own, but the grace and strength she gained were her husband's gifts, though weakly rendered by a woman's hand." That's honour enough for me I BARTOLOZZI. Hold to that, Angelica mine, yet bear your honours with a smile ; don't let this weight of honour subdue your lighter nature ; he'll love you for the smiles, this master of woman's sweetest moods — the light and shade of a woman's face, if you vrill, not always shadow. ANGELICA. Dear Bartolozzi, I am subdued ; I can't help it ; love has come to my heart in sober garb, and yet with great joy- (Tears come into her eyes,) Well, tears of joy ; and just now — this dress, perhaps — marriage seems so solemn as the day approaches. You've had your peep, dear father ; I'll change the dress, and be Angelica once more — your own daughter, who owes every- thing to your love and devotion I (Kisses Kauffmann.) ACT III. 61 K A U F P .M A N \. Angel mine, always my sweet Angel I (Wipes his eyes.) I'm an old fool ! None of your laughing, Bartolozzi I B A U T L O Z 2; I. I love to see your happiness, old friend. She's my god- daughter ; I'm as big a fool as her real father ! (Euter ilisa Reynolds.) MISS REYN'OLDS. I can't endure my Lady Margaret any longer. The dressmaker's having a warm time of it, I warrant you. (To Kauffmauu.) I like 3'our design vastly well, Mr. Kauffmann — rich, and flowing, and artistic. I'm sure Joshua will be delighted. BARTOLOZZI (to KauEfmaan). Come, you've had praise enough ; let's to the ivory man and finish this seal business. We've dealt with the dress as costmne and colour ; let's leave the ladies to deal with the snippings and pinniugs ! Ladies, your most obedient. (Bai-tolozzi and Kauffmaun go out.) MISS REYXOLDS. Yes, a very handsome dress ; but to my taste it's a Uttle too serious for a wedding-dress. ANGELICA. But, recoUect, it's a travelhng- dress, and Sir Joshua MISS K E Y' X O L D S (with emphasis). Joshua ! ANGELICA. Joshua 1 MISS REYNOLDS. Say " dear Joshua " — ^let me hear you distinctly ! ANGELICA. " Dear Joshua !" 62 ANGELICA. MISS REYNOLDS. Well, there, I never saw such a pair of lovers — Miss Angelica Kauffimann and Sir Joshua Reynolds. Loves and doves, and bliss and kiss, not a bit of it — all so stiff, and courtly, and stately. Why, you demure darling I love isn't a minuet of bows and scrapings. ANGELICA. But your brother — consider his position in art. MISS REYNOLDS. Well, it isn't my idea of love, but perhaps you're right ; the lips he loves to paint have always scared him back to the covert of his painting-room. As to lovers' talk of sweet nothings, not one word ; but placid converse as to composition and outline, faint breathings of chiaroscuro, murmurs of scumblings and glazings, lispings of varnish — he was doomed to die a bachelor, if he hadn't met a woman whose only passion was her love of art. ANGELICA. Say, at least, that her passion was her love and rever- ence for her husband's greatness ! MISS REYNOLDS. Pooh ! pooh 1 I do love to tease you both. My Joshua — he's very great, of course ; but to me he's the sweetest, and the kindest, and the most generous man that ever lived. I know you feel that too. ANGELICA. I know it — I know it ; would that I were really worthy of his love 1 (CrioB.) MISS REYNOLDS. You are, dearest. Come, come, no tears 1 (Sir Jobhua enters.) Why, by all that's wonderful, here's Joshua 1 I've made ACT III. 63 Your bride-elect cry, wicked Fanny as I am. Give her a kiss, Joshua, and set it right. SIR JOSHUA. Dearest ! (Kisses Angelica's hand. ) MISS REYXOLDS. Lips, Joshua, Kps. SIR JOSHUA (iu courtly tone). Miss Kauffmann. iM I S S REYNOLDS. " Angehca," Joshua ! When shall I ever teach you to say " Angelica"? SIR JOSHUA. Angelica, my darling, as dear, wicked Fanny insists (Kisses Angelica in stately way.) MISS REYNOLDS. Pooh, Joshua 1 that's the way to kiss a sister, not a, bride. Let me. (Kisses Angelica.) Strong in the mouth, love on the lips 1 SIR J(JSHUA. But respect in the heart as well as love, Fanny ; and Angelica ANGELICA. Is assured of this love. What but love could have caused an artist to desert his painting-room at this hour of the day, to be false to his sweet mistress, Art — noble as she is sweet — to come courting a poor foolish woman, a thing of whims and won-ies — ripples on the sm'face of his placid life ! MISS REYNOLDS. AYeU, it isn't my sort of love, but I'm glad you like it. Give me Borneo and Mr. Garrick, swearing and tearing; Juliet and Mrs. Cibber, sighing and crying. 64 ANGELICA. SIR JOSHUA. Fanny, consider, a Borneo rather hard of hearing, and a JuHet who has won her laurels, who has gained the highest honour in her profession. ANGELICA. "What do you mean ? SIR JOSHUA. Miss Angelica Kauffmann, Boyal Academician. ANGELICA. Impossible ! SIR JOSHUA. Your diploma signed this morning. (Glvoa paper to .Vngelica.) ANGELICA. But your gift — awarded to me for your sake ; my honour, but gained by your merit 1 (Kisses Sir Joshua with forvouv,) SIR JOSHUA. There, Fanny, Juliet has kissed Borneo — is this love ? ANGELICA. Love, and admiration, and gratitude. MISS REYNOLDS (with a bow to Angelloft). I congratulate Miss Angelica Kauffmann, B.A. — Lady Beynolds elect. ANGELICA. The higher honour I (Gives her hand to Sir Joshua.) MISS REYNOLDS. Well, I must go back to my Lady Margaret and protect the dressmaker, or it will be murder. ANGELICA. And I also. ACT III. 65 MISS REYNOLDS. You have your excuse, Angelica, a lover — a pair of lovers, a pair of paint-brushes in love I How Signor Cupid must laugh at your courtship — ^maulsticks instead of arrows ! (Exit Miss Reynolds.) ANGELICA. Dear Fanny, she loves her joke. But why not love in sober reason instead of unreason ? Not wild random love without valid cause — the mad love which ends in despair, which flings \visdom and consequences to the wind ! SIR JOSHUA. Angel mine, no matter how it came about. You came to me ; I was alone, and like to have been alone to the end of my life ; you came to me with the love of- my love — art — with the sympathy which is born of common knowledge, of conunon aspirations. The ignorance of other women, gazing idly at the canvas, would have been a perpetual worry ; and empty chatter often pains my ears ; but you would stand at my side, and you would feel, as I feel, every touch of the brush, its meaning and its purpose, as clear to you as to me — a silent converse, sweeter than spoken words. ANGELICA. Honoured beyond all women ! SIR JOSHUA. Loved ! Y'our painting-room will be next to mine. ANGELICA. Master and pupU. SIR JOSHUA. Nay, feUow-students, Angelica. In the great school of art we are always students. And you will be my sweet model — always Angelica, like Andrea del Sarto's wife. 66 ANGELICA. ANGELICA. But she was faithless ! SIE JOSHUA. But he loved her — he had no ohoioe, love's tyranny was too strong. Those dreams of mine that wait realization — the unpainted pictures of the brain — I have found my perfect model at last. But this new dress ? ANGELICA. I never laeant you to see it till I stood at the altar — my wedding-dress. SIR JOSHUA. I like it — this rich gold and brown. A.N'GELICA. My father's design. SIB JOSHUA. Very pleasant, and full of rich harmonies — flowing drapery. Sit, darUng. (She sits in sitter's cliair. ) I have it, an old fancy of mine which has been lurking in my brain many a year— the Muse of Art. Let me place you in the pose I have imagined — so, sweet one ! (He arranges lier attitude in accordance with that of Mrs. Siddons as the Tragic Muse.) Asphalt and orhnson-lake for richness and depth, then glazings of gamboge. Don't move awhile, dearest. What a courtship for a painter — you and I together ! Love's commission 1 The smiles I love to paint, my own ; given to me — your heart's gift ; and the eyes, the language of the soul poured out for me. What inspiration for an artist ! It vnll be my great work, Angelica ; they shall gaze on it in the after days, when this hand is dust ; his masterpiece, they'll say, for Love was the master who inspired the work. What I tears, darling, tears ? ACT III. fi7 ANGELICA. Yes, tears — tears. (She sinks from tlio cliaiv and kuoels at his feet.) Oh, Heaven ! make me worthy of this great love and honoxir, guard me from all temptation. I have been a flirt — inconstant. Nay, let me speak the A^-hole truth to you ; and now I am face to face with nobleness and stead- fastness, and I tremble for my poor weak nature, a vain, frivolous woman — I cannot be sure of myself ! SIR JOSHUA (raises her tenderly). I can — love makes us strong and true. I know you love me. I know you will never be false to your heart, be the sacrifice what it may. ( Aliss Reynolds enttrs.) ANGELICA. Never — never ! (Aside.) Heaven help me ! MISS REYNOLDS. It's time to be off, Joshua. I've saved the milliner's life. I'm not sm-e it was worth saving ! Bless me ! love makes you forget your appointments — Dr. Jolmson ^\■ill be waiting for his sitting. Hey-dey ! why, you've made yoxu: bride cry yourself — the " Mom-ning Bride." It's very fine, but give me comedies — • ' Love for Love " — bright and light — the love that laughs. SIR JOSHUA. Steadfast and true, Fanny — husband and wife — the love that endures. Farewell, Angel ; Dr. Johnson's time is too valuable to be lost, even for a lover's happiness. Don't forget the dinner-hoiu" in Leicester Square — ^you and your father, Fanny and self, Dr. Johnson and Dr. Goldsmith. Dear Goldie, he'U make us laugh — comedy for this evening, that's sm'e ! 68 ANGELICA. MISS REYNOLDS. Farewell, bride elect 1 Fanny is longing to resign the power of the keys into your hands ! ANGELICA. Would they were worthier hands I SIR JOSHUA. The worthiest a man could desire, the fairest a painter could paint ! Henceforth these hands will be my models. Farewell, Angel mine— but only till this evening. (Miss Reynolds goas to door. Sir .loshua clasps Angelica In his arms and kisses her forehead.) MISS REYNOLDS. Kiss her again — lips, Joshua, always lips ! Eeal lips don't smudge like paint I (Sir Joshua kisses Angelica's lips.) That's a kiss at last, a warrantable kiss ! Now, come along quick, or Dr. Johnson will begin to growl like a bear. (Miss Reynolds and Sir Joshua go out. Angelica throws herself into a chair at the table and clasps her hands over hor face. A pause.) ANGELICA. I do love him — I do love him ! How can T help loving him — so kind, so sweet, so gentle, so great? I know his greatness. I have seen great men's works, dead and gone — I have weighed their greatness, and he is as great as they are great ; and yet he's so humble— a student still. Mine, this genius; mine, his honoiir and renovni; mine, his grand humility 1 Lady Eeynolds — his wife I What a crown of honour for a woman to wear I What's it made of, this heart of mine, dull lead, cold marble ? No response. Does my soul rush to the lips when his lips kiss mine ? No spark of fervour, no flame of love ! Burnt out, the past ? No ; still there. That image is still graven there, strive to hide it as I maj', holding my heart with resistless. ACT III. (59 force. I caanot marry that man — it uever can be — hope- less, impossible ! Then why repine ? AVhy vainly son-ow through long sleepless hours of the night ? \Miy, he saved me from fatal sleep, and now I cannot sleep, and wakefulness of sorrow repa^'S my debt to him. But for Ms image, I could love Sir Joshua with my whole heart. Perhaps time Time's a slow physicism— I must bear the tortm-e till time does its work of mercy. (Kauffmanu enters, followed by Lady Margaret. Angelica starts to her feet.) Oh, father mine, dearest father, such honour ! Have you heard ? KAUFFMAXN. Xo, Angelica, my own I ANGELICA. Your daughter a Koyal Academician ! Just think of it — a woman, a Royal Academician ! KAUFFMAXN. A woman ! but art knows no sex I (Embraces her.) My darling child — your old father — ^he reaps his reward : his child's honour — the crown of his old age. LADY MARGARET (inteiposing). A thousand congratulations, deai- AngeHca. ANGELICA (with forced exultation). Thanks. Lady Margaret, a thousand thanks; no con- gratolations can be too great for my great fortune. TVhat honour greater than the love of the great man who has chosen me to be his wife "? The thought half turns my head with joy and exultation. Deai-est father, words can't tell the joy and pride I feel ; he is so good, so noble ! 70 ANGELICA. LADY MAEGARET. Angelica, dearest, forgive me, I have a request to make. You are so happy now, so full of assured happiness, that perhaps you might spare some little sympathy for one virho suffers deep sorrow for your sake. ANGELICA. Wliat do you mean ? LADY MARGARET. Count de Home ! (Angelica starts and shudders.) He prays one last interview, one last farewell. He leaves England immediately— this very day, perhaps. ANGELICA. ■ I have written to him the kindest letter I could write ; but I cannot see him. Once for all, I will not see him. LADY MARGARET. But, in reason, tell me why ? ANGELICA. An interview can only be painful to him. LADY MARGARET. But not painful to you. Your heart is full of joyful love for your af&anoed husband ; Spare him a Uttle sympathy and pity ; he sorely needs it, poor young man ! ANGELICA. Is he so — so very LADY MARGARET. Cast down in the depths of despair. He only seeks to bid you one eternal farewell; at least, you might grant him that small consolation. ACT III. Tl ANGELICA. But Sir Joshua — he would not LADY MAROAEBT. Sir Joshua is too generous to object to an act of kind- ness and mercy. I repeat, Count de Home cannot marry you ; if he were in that position, depend on it, I should not be his advocate, in common justice to Sir Joshua Beynolds and yourself. ANGELICA. I will not see him. Let this matter cease. KAUFPMANN. My child, he has begged and prayed me to ask you to grant him this one last interview ; his prayers are so persistent, I do think you might grant him this small mercy. ANGELICA. Father, I will not listen to another word on the subject. Go to him — I insist ! — and tell him my determination. His persistence is unmanly and cruel ! Go, I say, find him, and end this painful affair. Go, if you love me — go! (Kauffmaun goes out.) LADY MARGARET. Whj', dear Angelica, one would think you doubted your own heart ! ANGELICA. Doubt my own heart ? That's Sir Joshua's 1 This young man, what is he to me ? LADY MARGARET. If nothing, then why not see him ? ANGELICA. I will not I Once for all. 72 ANGELICA. LADY MARGARET. Brave words ! If the truth were told, I beheve you dare not ! ANGELICA. Dare? LADY MARGARET. Dare not, I repeat — because, in your inmost heart, I beheve you love him. ANGELICA. Take care, Lady Margaret, words of this nature will destroy our friendship. See him? of course I can see him. But why such useless pain to him ? He's nothing to me, I repeat — utterly indifferent. If you dare me in this way, I vidll see him. (Enter servant.) SERVANT. The Count de Home waits on your ladyship. LADY MARGARET. Announce the Count, when I ring. (Exit servant.) ANGELICA. This is some design, some cruel plot. LADY MARGARET. Your conduct is abstird. You say he is nothing to you ■ — ^let me ring the bell — the interview wiU be over in a few minutes ; he wiU be consoled, and you wiU be spared all further importunity. (Goes towards bell. Angelica strives to hold her back.) ANGELICA. No — no ! spare me ! spare me ! I can't see him 1 I wUl not see him ! LADY MARGARET. Don't hold my hands in this rough way ! (Breaks from Angelica and rings bell.) ACT III. 73 ANGELICA. I won't see him, I say 1 I'll look myself into luy own room till he leaves the house 1 (Goes towards door.) LADY MARGARET. You'll njeet him in the haU. ANGELICA. Through the hbrary, then 1 (She goes to library door, enters, utters a cry, and flies back.) Oh, horror 1 Count Strossman I (Servant enters and announces " The Count de Home." Fersen enters, servant retires.) FERSEN. Miss Kauffmann — Angelica ! (He advances towards her, she shrinks back.) ANGELICA (in broken, hurried voice, standing at bay.) Why do you come in defiance of my refusals ? I say it is unmanly to persecute me in this determined way. WeU, you have come, and to what end ? You are Count de Home, I am Angelica Kauffmann, the af&anoed wife of Sir Joshua Reynolds ; that fact ends everything. FERSEN. I have only desired one last interview before leaving this country for ever. My route is prepared for Harwich. I only wait for the legal document from the Swedish Embassy confirming my restitution in blood ; I leave London immediately on its receipt. Oh, Angelica, you are happy in your corning marriage, be generous, and spare a little pity for one who is doomed henceforth to bear an eternal sorrow in his heart. ANGELICA. You go to wealth and honour, a great nobleman in your own land — what more for a man's ambition ? 74 ANGELICA. P B R S B N. I leave the treasure of my life behind. I cannot speak as I would speak — as I must apeak. Lady Margaret, ffrant us a few minutes alone. ANGELICA. Lady Margaret, do not leave this room, I beg and pray. LADY MARGARET. Only a few minutes. What harm in a few minutes' conversation ? ANGELICA. Injustice to me — injustice to Sir Joshua. LADY MARGARET. I shall be in the library, close at hand. (Goes to the library door.) ANGELICA. You shall stay, or I will go. (Follows Lady Margaret towards library, then starts back, as'de.) Count Strossman ! Is there no refuge left ? FERSEN (with fervour). Ah, Angelica, why afraid of me ? Was I not true to you in that dark hour of your life ? Did I not save you from shame and disgrace ? I make no boast, but through my devotion, you wiU go to the altar and wed your hus- band as an honourable bride. Is this not true ? ANGELICA. It is — it is. (Aside.) Heaven help me 1 FERSEN. And now — now that I cannot marry you, forbidden by those accursed laws, with a burning passion in my bosom, ACT III. 75 with endless wealth at my command, I do not seek you with false deluding words, and urge 30U to be my mistress if you cannot be my wife — disgrace to the woman I rever- ence and adore. Then why fear me ? — why shun me ? Why not let me bear away one gracious remembrance of this final mterview ? Be merciful ! You go your way to happiness, a happj' marriage with the man you love, I go my way to solitude and sorrow. ANGELICA. Leave me — cleave me. I caimot — I must not — talk with you. t^he sits at table, clasping her hands over her face.) F K R S E X. What ! no better words than coldness and scorn — ^no poor words of simple gratitude, of common sympathy ? Is this your nature ? is this your heart "? Hai'd to be borne, and bitter for the soul, but I thank you, madsim, for this interview ; it has taught me that the woman I loved was an ideal of my own creation ; that the woman I thought I loved possessed a heart of stone. Ton can summon Lady Margaret, oui- interview is at an end. Farewell, madam, for ever ! (He moves towards door ; Angelica, who has striven to restrain her feelings, bursts into violent sobs.) ANGELICA (bitterly). Tears from a heart of stone ! FERSEX (returning to her). Angelica, it is not true ; you are playing some false part — disguising your heart. Your tears speak the truth — you love me — ^love me ! ANGELICA (starting up). I love you — I do love you. I never knew how much I loved you tUl this hour. I felt I must hide from your 76 ANGELICA. presence, that then I might wrench away the feeling ; but I never knew its strength till now 1 PERSBlSr. Angelica 1 ANGELICA. No lie shall stand between us in this last interview. I do love you, my hero, my protector ; bear away that thought. And bear away this thought also, that you have honoured and revered the woman you love. Go forth into the world; remember your exalted position; do great works and noble deeds I PERSBN. I might — I think I might — but all energy in me is paralyzed ; fame is.not love I ANGELICA. But duty and honour remain, work for them — men have stern work to do. Make me proud in the thought that I have loved you. Be brave and strong ; be true to your own noble nature. Leave me with these words buried among our hearts' treasures — this last interview of honour. Farewell I (Holds out lier hand for him to kiss, he clasps it.) FBRSEN. Grant my last prayer — yoiu: lipsl — the death of our love, the last cold kiss of death. (Sho lots him kiss her.) My lost love 1 my lost love 1 Farewell 1 I will give you no more useless pain. I bless you for the consolation of this parting — " Proud in the thought that I have loved you." Farewell, Angelica I (He kneels at her feet, kissing her hand ; she lays her other hand on his head in solemn attitude ; he rises, turns, and goes silently towards the door. Lady Margaret enters from library.) ACT III. 77 LADY MARGARET. Pardon my intrusion, but Count Strossman desires to see Count de Home fortliwith. (Strossman enters.) PERSBN (to Strossman). I have forbidden you to enter this lady's presence. STROSSMAN. A hundred apologies, but here is the important docu- ment. I learnt that you were paying your respects to Lady Margaret. It has just been received at the Embassy. This decree declares you ennobled in blood, a high count of the kingdom of Sweden. (Gives document to Fersen.) FERSEN. A noble, but the final end of all hope 1 Would that I were Fersen still 1 Would that it were false — some shame- ful forgery ! STROSSMAN. It bears its own authenticity, the great seal of Sweden. FBRSEX (looks at seal). The great seal of Sweden truly enough. Count de Home, by solemn decree. Oh, mother, dear mother, restored to all the honours of your rank ! Your son rejoices for your sake ; he sorrows for his own. (Suddenly to Strossman.) "Why do you linger, sir, still in this lady's presence ? Begone, at once I STROSSMAX (bowing). I obey, Mr. de Home. FEBSEX. Mr. de Home ! What do you mean ? I am by rank the third greatest nobleman in Sweden — Count de Home, under this seal. 78 ANGELICA. STROSSMAN. Pardon me, sir, read carefully the terms of the decree. From to-morrow — the date of the decree is to-morrow, the 25th June, 1769 — from to-morrow, you are ennobled in blood, but to-day you are merely a commoner, without any of the rights and privileges of nobility. Saving the presence of these ladies, I, as a noble of the third class, cover my head in your presence. (Puts on his hat.) Mr. de Home to-day, to-morrow Count de Home in all his dignity and honour. (He bows to the ladles, and goes towards door ; Fersen stops him.) FEBSBN. You say I am only a commoner to-day ? STROSSMAN. A simple commoner 1 FERSEN (with intense agitation). Then — then — teU me STROSSMAN. I know what you would ask. I hurried to you, for there was no time to be lost. Small thanks have I received 1 You know our laws — the patent of nobility ennobles a commoner and his wife from the date of creation ; but, from and after that date, a noble can only wed a bride of noble birth. To-day, you are free to wed as you will, and to-morrow you and your wedded wife become ennobled in blood — Count and Countess by the law of Sweden. FEBSBN. Angelica I (Angelica has listened intently during this dialogue ; she stands trans- fixed with her hands in painful tension.) ACT III. 79 STROSSMAN. The canonical hour is not yet passed ; the priest is still to be found in the Roman Catholic chapel close at hand, in Farm Street. But time flies ; in half an hour marriage will be impossible tmtil to-morrow, (Takes off his hat.) and to-morrow will be too late for your marriage with a commoner. (Bows.) Ladies, your most obedient ! (Aside on threshold.) The battle is won ! Angelica will be mine. (iSxit.) FERSBN (passionately). Angelica, not death — life ! — ^love ! All he says is true. I loiow the law. You will rise with me — my honoured wife ; but now, at once. ANGELICA. This is madness ! I am affianced to another. Impos- sible ! A crime ! — perjm-y unmeasured ! p E E s E N. But you love me 1 (Lady Margaret steals out of the room.) ANGELICA. But I'm engaged to another, I say. Plighted -pledged. Leave me— in mercy, leave me 1 FERSBN. With love in your heart ? You swore you loved me ! ANGELICA. I said so, but I said more than I meant. I was cajoled into seeing you. I was prayed by others — by my father even — to be kind in my manner, to give you some con- solation ; but — well, I spoke words I really did not mean 80 ANGELICA. — not in their fulness ; things are changed now. Go I Leave me, if you have any generosity, leave me, or I shall hate you. Once for all, my hand belongs to another — it's irrevocable — a plighted word — a bond of honour. FBRSBN. That kiss 1 ANGELICA. "Which ended all between us — a sacred kiss of death. Go, I beg and pray. (Calls.) Lady Margaret, tell this man to leave this house ; his presence is an insult to me. Lady Margaret, I insist. FBESBN. Lady Margaret has left the room. ANGBLICA. This is some plot, some shameful scheme. FBESBN. Cruel and unjust. Have I ever been untrue ? Have I ever sought you unworthily ? Once more, remember that dark hour ! Cruel woman, is this my reward ? ANGBLICA. I cannot teU what I say ! My brain is dazed. You see my anguish — go, leave me. Why am I to be tortured thus ? Your love is cruelty and pain ! FBESEN. I will go, never to see you again, on this condition. TeU me, looking at me steadfastly in the face, that you do- not love me ; that all your profession of love was a lie to deceive me in my despair — to dismiss me with a falsehood cherished in my heart. Speak those words, and I leave you for ever. ACT III. 81 ANGELICA (with supremo effort). I say, " I do not love you ; all my profession of love was a lie." FERSBN. ANGELICA. FERSBN. To deceive me. " To deceive you." In my despair. ANGELICA. " In your despair." (Suddenly in vehement tones.) No — no ; I love you 1 Perjured, false, unworthy, I love you I honour or dishonour, life or death I Heaven help me, I cannot help myself I FBESEX. Life and honour, my wife ! (He clasps her in his arms. Enter Lady Margaret.) Lady Margaret, Angehca is mine. I have won the precious jewel of my coronet ! ANGELICA (to Lady Margaret). False, perjured, unworthy, not mistress of myself, yet knowing right and wrong, but helpless to do right, com- pelled by some awful power. Tell him — tell Sir Joshua he must never look upon my face again. In mercy to him, have no mercy when you speak of me — despicable, frivoloxis, a jilt — well saved from such a wife : teU him at once, without delay — promise me I FERSEX. Come, Angelica, dearest wife, not this self-reproach. Love has conquered ; you have been true to jour heart. The precious minutes fly — come ! 8$ ANGELICA. ANGELICA (starting from Ferson). Not in this dress — ^my wedding-dress — ^his bride 1 Let me change it I FKBSBN. What matter ? There is no time, dearest ; I cannot lose you now. ANGELICA. Take me as you will; my heart has spoken, not my con- science. It were better I had died than endure this torture. False— false 1 let the world scorn me as I deserve 1 (Persen leads her out, clinging half holplossly on his arm.) LADY MARGAEBT. Gone 1 That man's wife — my rival no longer ! (Enter Rtroseman from library.) STROSSMAN. Ah, Lady Margaret, the magic touch I this harpsichord of a woman's heart. LADY MARGARET. It was a hard fight; and though I have won, I pity her. STROSSMAN. Ah, a fine nattire vanquished I Helpless at my feet — fuU zest of pleasure— in a few hours she will cling to me for consolation. LADY MARGARET. But her husband — ^the powerful Count de Home ? STROSSMAN. Her husband, but never in his arms. She will quickly spurn him with contempt and scorn. The wheels are moving quickly now. Go to Sir Joshua, play your game with skin — sympathetic deprecation, not hard blame. ACT III. 83 Men are often won in these sudden revulsions of feeling. The love-motive onee stirred in the heart is not easily put to rest. LADV MAEGARET. Su- Joshua is painting my portrait — I have a sitting to-morrow morning. STROSSMAN. Why, Fortune is playing your game ! A clever touch of sympathy, and his heart will fall into your hands. LADY MARGARET. You are a magician of the heart. STEOSSMAX. Call me a magician when Angelica is mine. TiU to- morrow, fair lady. (Strossman goes out.) LADY MAEGAEE'T. Tender, sympathetic; a favourable impression in the first hour of disappointment, deepening more and more, till the torn tendrils of love cling to a new support. Ex- cellent device ! (EiDgs ; servant eaters.) My carriage. (Exit servant.) And then hey for Leicester Square ! Shall I reign there in place of the deposed Queen of Hearts ? It's a splendid chance, and I'U use it with my best skill. (Servant enters, and announces : "Miss Reynolds, my lady!" Miss; Reynolds enters, and servant withdraws.) MISS REYNOLDS. There's no mistake about Joshua now ; he's over head and ears at last. He's sent me with these flowers. Angelica's to wear them to-night in her white dress. It's a new scheme of colour he wants to study. The idea 84 ANGELICA. flashed into his head as we were going home. The very- thought of her seems to bring fresh inspirations. So, hey, presto I I'm sent with the flowers while he paints Dr. Johnson. The Doctor is growling away like a caged bear, but, bless you I Joshua only smiles, for he can't hear the growls. Growls and smiles, it will make a grand picture between them— very brown and rich, like your old sherry wine. But where's Angelica ? LADY MARGARET. Miss Kauf&nann has left the house. MISS REYNOLDS. What a bother 1 I can't stay ; I'm responsible for the dinner, and the great Doctor will growl all the more if the dinner goes wrong. Oh, by-the-bye, have you heard the last bit of gossip? Why, that young Count de Home who has been flashing about town is no Count after all ! He has deceived everybody at the Swedish Embassy with false papers ; borrowed money on false pretences — a vulgar impostor ! LADY MARGARET. Impossible ! MISS REYNOLDS. They are after him now — warrants are out. Coimt Strossman is my authority. He told me so, as I was entering the house. LADY MARGARET (aside). Then the wheels do move quickly ! MISS REYNOLDS. Did Angelica go out with her father ? LADY MARGARET. No. ACT III. nr, MISS REYNOLDS. Alone, then ? LADY MARGARET. Yes — I mean — I suppose MISS REYNOLDS. What do you mean ? LADY MARGARET. I can conceal the cruel truth no longer. I am over- whelmed with grief and shame — I can scarcely speak the hateful words — that wicked, deceitful woman has been false to your brother ! MISS REYNOLDS. Angelica false to Joshua ! It will kill him ! LADY MARGARET. You must not meet her again, dear Miss Eeynolds ! MISS REYNOLDS. False to Joshua ! I must get home to him — I must be with him when the blow falls. (Enter aei-vant.) SERVANT. Your ladyship's carriage ! LADY MARGARET. Let us go at once ; that false woman has entrusted me with a cruel message for your brother. MISS REYNOLDS. You are a dear, good woman ! I can see by youi- tears that you feel for poor Joshua. 86' ANGELICA. LADY MARGARET. Indeed I do, Miss Reynolds, from the depth of my heart. Rest on my arm. (Lady Margaret leads out Miss Reynolds, followed by servant. Strossman enters cautiously from library, followed by two Bow Street officers.) STROSSMAN. Search that table — Mr. KauflEmann's working table ! (Officers search.) FIRST OFFICER. Impressions of the forged seal, your Excellency — draw- ings of the seal. STROSSMAN. Secure them. You'll have to swear where they were discovered. (Looks out of window.) Ah, husband and wife ! They retttm. Here ! (Beckons officers to window.) You see that man and woman. The man is Fersen, my valet. When I give the word, you'll arrest him ; here's the warrant. Forgery — the great seal of Sweden! It's death 1 Mark your man ! Now retire. (Officers go out by library.) Sir Joshua gone, Fersen arrested, the third lover remains. Ah, Angelica, in the toils now ! I defy you to break the net. (Goes into library ; Angelica and Fersen enter, ushered in by servant ) ANGELICA. Has Lady Margaret left the house ? SERVANT. Yes, madam, in the carriage. ANGELICA. What address did she give ? ACT III. 87 SERVANT. 8ir Joshua Eeynolds', Leicester Square. (Servant goes out.) ANGELICA. It is well ; he will know the truth, and so avoid me from henceforth. His reproaches would kill me ! PBESEN. Dearest wife, the anguish you suffer is for my sake. ANGELICA. Bear with me a little. I have been faithless to my word ; it weighs on my conscience ; but, believe me, (With fervour) I shall be faithless no more, because I love you. Can you trust me ? — say, you can trust me ? FERSBN. My darling wife to-day, by to-morrow's dawn, the noble Countess de Home ! ANGELICA (with passion). To-day your wife, to-morrow your wife, your wife t6 my Ufe's end. I have married you — that's my highest honour ; not a title, however exalted — ^married you, since you were free to marry me. But, stiU, a bride with tears, not smiles, for I am false and perjured, and I have given pain to a noble heart. You said you were ready to leave London this afternoon — let's go. FBRSEN. So suddenly for you — no preparations ! ANGELICA. I can pack a few things ; only, let's leave this hateful city. I tell you, if I meet the man I have wronged, it would kill me. Dearest husband, grant me this prayer ; 88 ANGELICA. don't let me linger here another hour. When I am safely away with you, I shall smile again — all is anguish now. FEESEN. Be it so, darling wife. In less than an hour the post- horses shall be here, and then for your new home and new honours ! Farewell, sweet one. (Kisses her forehead.) ANGELICA. Don't be long away, I can't bear your absence ; a sicken- ing fear besets me ! FBRSEN. Not many minutes, dearest wife. (He goes out.) ANGELICA (sitting at table). Alone 1 What a whirl of agony it's been — this room strewn with my falsehoods, Uar that I am ! Judged now — the still, small voice — faithless, perjured, in whispers. (In changed tone of resolution.) No, before Heaven and men, I'U not budge one inch. I don't repent! I love him — my husband, my husband 1 If punishment must fall on me, I wUl bear it all for the sake of my love 1 (Strossman stands at library door watching Angelica, her head buried in her hands.) Footsteps ! oh, joy 1 — ^he returns — ^he returns ! (Strossman retires by library as Sir Joshua enters.) And now we fly from London. Back so quickly, dearest ? SIR JOSHUA. Yes, Angel mine. ANGELICA (starts up in terror, and gazes on Sir Joshua with dazed countenance). You here? You have come here? Is it possible? Have you seen Lady Margaret ? ACT III. 8fl SIB JOSHUA. No. ANGELICA. She went to your house ! (Aside.) Oh, Heaven, not this awful punishment on my sin ! SIR JOSHUA. AVe must have crossed one another. ANGELICA. Then you don't know SIB JOSHUA. Yes, my poor child, and that's why I have come to you in your grief. Your poor father ANGELICA. My father ? SIR JOSHUA. Let me hold you in my arms, Angelica — to my heart, your sure refuge. Sorrow needs a lover's support 1 :. Go on ! STROSSMAN. I found moneys for Fersen's dress and expenses, and I had him arrested for debt — arrested as an impostor and a forger. no ANGELICA. FERSEN. Why did you do this wickedness— why, I say ? Answer, or I'll wring the vile truth from your accursed throat. Why? STBOSSMAN. That I might force this lady to listen to my dishonour- able suit. FERSEN. " Confession black enough ! Now pray— pray this lady's pardon for the grievous wrong. STROSSMAN. Madam, I humbly crave your pardon 1 FERSEN. Pray to her mercy for your vUe life 1 STROSSMAN. Save me — save me, O gracious lady I ANGELICA (in a low voice). Spare him. FERSEN. Enough ; your life is spared. (He flings down sword, unlocks door, throws it open.) I submit to the law. (Bow street officers enter, followed by the Swedish Ambassador, Sir Joshua Reynolds, and Kauffiiiann, who goes to his daughter and embraces her, and afterwards by Miss Reynolds,) STROSSMAN (aside). The Ambassador ! I'm lost ! (To Ambassador.) I trust that your Excellency will give no heed to words forced from my lips at the poiat of the sword. AMBASSADOR. Count Strossman, you will at once report yourself at the Embassy. The truth of your confession wiU be closely tested. I suspect you have certain accomplices ; they will be examined forthwith. With regard to this young man. ACT IV. Ill unfortunate, and deeply wronged, I believe ; I will accept the undertaking of any responsible person for his appear- ance at the Embassy when required. Meantime, the charges against him are withdrawn. SIR JOSHUA. I accept the responsibility of Mr. Fersen's appearance. AMBASSADOR. Your word, Sir Joshua, is amply sufficient. Count Strossman, you had better follow me ; the inquiry must proceed at once. (Ambassador, bowing to Sir Joshua, goes out.) STROSSMAN (aside). Lost, in the moment of triumph — the promise of a life wrecked 1 Madness 1 A great career — only a woman ! (About to go.) FERSBN. Do not let us meet again. Count Strossman. I have given you your life that this lady's honour and my own might be vindicated by truth wrung from your vile lips ; 'but the next time we meet it will be short shrift and sure death ! (Strossman goes out. To Angelica.) And now, O lady deeply loved, and yet cruelly wronged in innocence by me, I make the last reparation in my power. I shall leave this country, as soon as the law permits. Your husband, but in name — the marriage of a Protestant with a Catholic — I am told that the law will grant you an easy divorce. You will be free, and I pray that the recol- lection of the valet Persen may pass away from your memory like the trouble of an evil dream. He wiU. bear with him a great sorrow — haply not for long, for some wounds of the heart never heal, and the life-blood ebbs silently away. And yet, with all that weight of sorrow, he will possess the happiness of a conscience devoid of all guilt towards the woman he has so deeply loved and honoured'. 112 ANGELICA. KAUPFMANN (going up to Fersen). Young man, you have made the best reparation in your power ; I forgive you. (Clasps his hand.) My daughter free I ANGELICA. No, father, for ever no ! Bound by holy ordinance — bound by all that can bind a woman's heart : respect for a man's nobleness and honour; sympathy for noble and unmerited suffering! FEESEN. The valet Fersen ! ANGELICA. No, my husband — the husband of Angelica Kauff- ntiann ! (To Porsen.) You would have raised me to your estate — the honours of a great kingdom ; I raise you to mine — the kingdom of art, my honoured husband 1 (She clasps him in her arms.) SIR JOSHUA (to Kauflfmann). She has spoken well, Mr. Kauf&nann ; I honour her. Good-bye. (Tunis to go.) MISS EBTNOLDS (clasping Sir Joshua's Imnds). Dear, good, noble Joshua ! SIR JOSHUA. Dear, foolish sister Fanny ! Nay, we must be getting home ; Dr. Johnson will be waiting. (Takes Miss Reynolds' arm ; they tuni to go.) CURTAIN. BILLING AND SONS, PRINTERS, GUILDFORD. /. D.