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HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 A COMEDY IN THREE ACTS 
 
 BY 
 
 MARK SWAN 
 
 Copyright, 1915, By MARK SWAN 
 
 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 
 
 CAUTION.— Amateurs and Professionals are hereby warned that 
 "HER OWN MONEY," being fully protected under the Copyright 
 LaAvs of the United States, is subject to Royalty, and any one present- 
 ing the play without the consent of Samuel French or the author will 
 be liable to the penalties by law provided. Application for the right 
 to produce " HER OWN MONEY," must be made to Samuel French, 
 28-30 West 38th Street, Ne^v York. 
 
 NEW YORK 
 
 SAMUEL FRENCH 
 
 PUBLISHER 
 28-30 WEST 38th STREET 
 
 LONDON 
 
 SAMUEL FRENCH. LTD.. 
 
 26 SOUTHAMPTON STREET 
 STRAND 
 
'CI,D 41998 
 

 
 
 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 CHARACTERS. 
 
 Lewis Alden A business man 
 
 Mary Alden His zvife 
 
 Mildred Carr ]\Iary's sister 
 
 Tommy Hazleton In love zuith Mildred 
 
 Harvey Beecher A neighbor 
 
 Clara Beecher His zvife 
 
 Rhoda A maid 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 SYNOPSIS OF SCENES. 
 
 Act I. Living room in Lewis Alden's home. An 
 evening in summer. 
 
 Act II. In the same room. Evening after dinner. 
 Scene II — Act II. The same room. An hour 
 later. 
 
 The curtain will be lowered ten seconds to denote 
 the passage of several hours. 
 
 Act III. A cottage on Long Island. The next 
 year. 
 
 OGT 15 1915 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 ACT I. 
 
 The First Act occurs in an apartment on the third 
 floor of a New York Apartment House. It is a 
 comfortable, homehke, living-room — neither elab- 
 orate, nor shabby ; part of a home occupied by 
 people of moderate means, and good taste. 
 
 On the left is a mantel — beneath it a fireplace. As 
 it is summer this is banked with plants. On the left 
 above, is a window, set obliquely, which opens on a 
 rather dim court. A large arch at the center is very 
 lightly draped. On the right in the corner, is an 
 arch running straight across leading to a hall-way — 
 w^hich runs straight back up stage. On the right 
 below this is a large arch leading to a dining-room — 
 and on through the apartment. 
 
 In front of the fireplace is a couch running up 
 and down stage. Beside it is a stand. On the right 
 of the stand is a chair. Next the window is a lady's 
 desk and chair. On the right, against the wall, is a 
 good sized table covered with books and magazines ; 
 chairs about it ; a large arm-chair down right. 
 Through the arch into the dining-room is seen a 
 sideboard. In the room at back — seen through large 
 arch, is a piano, a music cabinet, a bookcase ; a table 
 in the center; and several chairs. This room also 
 has a door connecting with the hall-way. At the up- 
 stage end of the hall-way is a door giving access to 
 the public hall-way. There is also a door about 
 R. 3 E. leading from the hall-way to Lew's den. 
 Mary's desk sits by the window up stage. The 
 window of the Beecher apartment can be seen at 
 back, through the window up left. 
 
 5 
 
6 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 On scene. — Plants at mantel. Lights up. Sewing 
 basket on machine, scissors, hat-rack. 
 
 On desk. — Pen, ink, check book — vase. 
 
 On table r. — Bills — account book, pencil, gas bill. 
 
 Books and papers on l. table. Matches on 
 
 mantel. Shade up. Window up. Handbag on 
 
 desk. 2 Bankbooks in drawer of desk. 6 
 Stamps. 
 
 Off r. — I Calender. Dress box tied. Money. 
 
 (3 bills.) 
 Off r. c. — Elevator effect. Door bell. Piano. 
 
 Violets. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 ACT I. 
 
 Scene: — At rise, Mary Alden is discovered at 
 table right. She is an attractive, pleasant, zvell 
 dressed zvonian of thirty, with rather a thought- 
 fid face. She is checking up hills, of various 
 sises and colors, comparing them zvith the 
 accounts in her house-book. She notes the 
 total amounts on a sheet of paper, shakes her 
 head and sighs. 
 
 Mary. (Calls off right) Rhoda, Rhoda. 
 
 (After a moment, Rhoda comes from right, wiping 
 her hands on her apron. She is a tall quadroon 
 zvoman of fifty, dressed very plainly, but very 
 neatly. Wears a gingham apron, and also 
 glasses. Is evidently a general servant.) 
 
 Rhoda. What is it, Mrs. Alden? 
 
 Mary. There's something wrong about this 
 butcher's bill. My house book (She holds up 
 book) makes the account thirty-two dollars. The 
 bill is for thirty-two fifty. 
 
 Rhoda. No'me, de bill is all right. I done 
 checked it up with my account. 
 
 Mary. Your account. But you can't read. 
 
 Rhoda. No'me. I can't read written writin', but 
 I been keepin' account jess de same. I'll show you. 
 (Slie turns and goes out right. Mary again inspects 
 
 T 
 
8 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 the bills. Rhoda re-enters right carrying a large 
 calendar) Dis heah, is de calendar yo' all gimme 
 an' every day I puts down de meat we has, an' how 
 much it cost. Dis was Monday. (She points to 
 space in calendar) We had beef. So I drawed a 
 picture of a cow. Next day we had lamb — I drawed 
 a little sheep. On Friday we had fish. See heah's 
 de fish. (She points out each drawing, in the space, 
 zvith the date) 
 
 Mary. (Laughs) A very clever idea Rhoda. 
 And you draw very well. 
 
 Rhoda. Yessum. It's easy when you put yo' 
 mine on it. But dey tells me dey is men dat git a 
 hundred dollars fo' one picture. 
 
 Mary. (Looks closely at calendar) But what 
 sort of an animal — is thisf 
 
 Rhoda. Dat ain't no animal — dat's hash. 
 
 Mary. (Laughs) Oh — I see. (Looks at house- 
 book) Possibly the amount is wrong. No, here it 
 is. The eighteenth. The bill says chicken — my book 
 says beef. 
 
 Rhoda. Dat was chicken Mis' Alden. You done 
 order beef ; den, Mr. Hazleton come to dinner, and 
 yo' change. (Shozvs calendar) See, heah's de 
 chicken. 
 
 Mary. I -remember. You're quite right. 
 (Changes book) I forgot it. Then it's correct. 
 (Picks up gas bill) The gas bill is higher this 
 month, Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. I'm jess as careful as I kin be. (Noise 
 off — elevator door opening) Pears to me like ouah 
 metre is mighty industrious. (Going back at table, 
 tozvard dining room) 
 
 (The outside hall-zvay door opens and Mildred 
 comes quickly in, humming a little song. She is 
 a pretty, zvholesome girl of eighteen. Evidently 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 9 
 
 Jiappv and contented. She is simply dressed, in 
 a dark skirt, a zvhite shirt waist — and wears a 
 straw hat.) 
 
 Mildred. Hello Sis. 
 
 Mary. You're home early, Mildred. 
 
 Mildred. Yes. Things were rather quiet at the 
 office to-day, and I hurried through, so Mr. Stimson 
 let me go. Hello Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. (Pleasantly) How are y'all, dis even- 
 ing. Miss Mildred? 
 
 Mildred. Everything's lovely. Did a package 
 come for me ? 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. Here it is. (Gets dress box 
 from dining-room and places it on table) 
 
 Mildred. (Trying to open box) A hard knot, 
 of course. (Pulling at string) 
 
 I^Iary. Get my scissors Rhoda out of the sewing 
 basket ? 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. (Goes to sewing basket up 
 right and gets scissors) 
 
 Mildred. Oh ! ! I've hurt my finger. (Rubs her 
 finger) 
 
 Mary. Let me help you. (Takes scissors from 
 Rhoda, cuts string) 
 
 (Mildred takes off top of box and drops it. Rhoda 
 picks it up. Mildred takes out light, pretty 
 summer dress from box and holds it up.) 
 
 Mildred. Isn't that pretty? 
 
 Rhoda. Unr hum. 
 
 Mary. Almost too pretty dear. I don't see how 
 you can afford it. 
 
 Mildred. I can't. That's why I bought it. 
 Cost me two wxeks' salary. (Examines dress. 
 Mary goes back to chair at table right) Oh dear, 
 It's been in the box so long, it's wrinkled. 
 
 Rhoda. I got a hot iron on. I'll press the 
 wrinkles out for you. 
 
lo HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mildred. Oh, will you Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. Won't take me a minute. 
 (Takes the dress and goes out right) 
 
 Mildred. (Goes to Mary right) There's an- 
 other one, just like mine — in the same shop. Why 
 don't you buy it Mary ? 
 
 Mary. Oh, I don't need it. 
 
 ]\IiLDRED. Yes you do — you haven't had one new 
 frock this summer. 
 
 Mary. Well then — I can't afford it. 
 
 Mildred. Can't afford it. That's what you al- 
 ways say. (Going tozvard center taking off her 
 hat) Lew isn't doing so badly. He always dresses 
 well. 
 
 Mary. Of course. Lew must dress well. It's 
 business. 
 
 Mildred. If yon don't dress well, people won't 
 think he's doing any business. 
 
 Mary. Lew isn't rich Mildred. The real estate 
 business is very uncertain. 
 
 Mildred. If you can't afford to be a little good 
 to yourself, how is it you're so good to me ? 
 
 Mary. I'm not " so good " to you. 
 
 Mildred. Yes you are. I couldn't live any- 
 where else, half as well for the same money. And 
 that reminds me — (Feels in her bag) this is settle- 
 ment day. (Counts out seven one dollar bills) 
 
 Mary. (Looks at money) You know I don't 
 like to take it. 
 
 Mildred. I shouldn't stay here with you, unless 
 3^ou did. I've got a good situation — and I get a 
 good salary, for a girl. I can pay my way — and I 
 like to feel independent. 
 
 Mary. Yes. I understand that. 
 
 Mildred. But I think it's absurdly little. 
 
 Mary. (Going to Mildred right of centre. 
 In a jocular zvay) ''Oh, dear Mrs. Landlady — 
 please raise my board." (Earnestly) You see 
 dear, you are not in any way — a — a — burden. Even 
 
HER OWN MONEY. ii 
 
 if you were not with us — we should still have the 
 apartment — only your room would be empty. I 
 should be very lonely, if you were not here. 
 
 Mildred. Dear old sis. (Mildred slips the 
 money into ^vIary's Jiand and Mary goes up to 
 desk left) It's sweet of you to talk like that, but 
 I've noticed you worrying about money for ever so 
 long. (Back of table right) You're puzzling your 
 head now about bills. (Handles the pile of bills) 
 It's none of my business I know — but — are you and 
 Lev/ hard up ? 
 
 Mary. No — certainly not. 
 
 Mildred. Because if yon are, you can have 
 every cent of my salary till you turn the corner of 
 Easy Street. 
 
 Mary. (Going back from desk — to table right) 
 Nonsense. I am just trying to help Lew save 
 money. (She sits) You know after we're married 
 — we women must learn to practise economy. 
 
 ]\Iildred. Yes, but economy — is one thing — and 
 — (Hesitates) 
 
 Mary. (Quietly) And parsimony is another. 
 Is that what you mean? 
 
 Mildred. No I don't. You know I don't. 
 (Slips her arm about Mary's head and strokes her 
 brozv) You're not miserly — or stingy — but it hurts 
 me Mary to see you always worrying about money 
 
 Mary. (Quietly) Sometimes it hurts me. 
 
 Mildred. Worrying about pennies — Always 
 denying yourself. jVlways — doing v/ithout — things 
 you need. 
 
 jNIary. I have all I need. 
 
 Mildred. Things you n'ant, then. It isn't as if 
 Lew were poor. I know he isn't rich, but he's got 
 a fair business. 
 
 Mary. Lew gives me all I ask 
 
 Mildred. Then ask for more. (Going toward 
 centre) 
 
12 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 {Enter right, Rhoda with dress on her arm,) 
 
 Rhoda. Here's yo' dress. 
 
 Mildred. Thank you so much Rhoda. {Takes 
 it from her, holds it up and admires it) 
 
 Mary. {Wistfully) It's awfully pretty. 
 
 Rhoda. Pretty ? Dat dress is a regular husband 
 winner. 
 
 Mary. Have you tried it on? 
 
 Mildred. Oh yes. Once when I was just look- 
 ing — once after I thought it over — once before I 
 bought it, and once after I bought it. {During this 
 speech she approaches Mary, and Rhoda moves a 
 little to the left — behind) 
 
 Mary. {Drily) That's why this hook is loose. 
 {Finger a hook on dress zvhich nozv lies in her lap) 
 
 Rhoda. How does it fit ? 
 
 Mildred. Better every time I wear it. 
 
 Rhoda. I'd like to see it on you Miss Mildred. 
 
 Mildred. I'll put it on. 
 
 Mary. Let me tighten this hook. 
 
 Mildred. I'll change my petticoat. {She runs 
 out. Elevator door off) 
 
 Mary. Get me a needle, Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum, heah's yo' needle. {Admiring 
 the dress) Miss Mildred's certainly got mighty 
 genteel taste. {The door bell in hall-zvay rings) 
 
 Mary. See who that is Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. {She goes into the hall-zvay. 
 Opens door) Howdy do Mr. Hazleton. 
 
 Hazleton. Good evening Rhoda 
 
 Rhoda. Miss Mary. Heah's Mr. Hazleton. 
 
 Mary. Come in, Mr. Hazleton. 
 
 {Enter Tom Hazleton from hall-way. He is a 
 clean cut, young chap of twenty-five, very well 
 dressed, though not a fop.) 
 
 Tom. How do you do, Mrs. Alden. 
 Mary. Glad to see you. Sit down. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 13 
 
 (Rhoda having closed fJie outer door into the hall- 
 ivay returns, stands in the background, casting 
 approving glances at Tom.) 
 
 Tom. Lew in yet? 
 
 Mary. No — Did you come especially to see him ? 
 
 Tom. Yes. 
 
 Mary. Oh ; did you bring him those violets ? 
 (Points to flozver he carries. He is slightly con- 
 fused. Rhoda grins) 
 
 Tom. Lew? (He shakes his head smiling) 
 
 Mary. (Mischievously) Oh — Then they're for 
 me. (Takes them from him, unzvraps them, puts 
 them in a little vase on her desk. Then laughs at 
 Tom) Rhoda tell Miss Mildred that Mr. Hazleton 
 is here, and say he has brought ^om^body — violets. 
 
 Rhoda. (Grinning) Yassum. 
 
 (Mildred quickly comes in from right. She has 
 removed her zvaist and her arms are hare. She 
 vuears her silk petticoat; her hair is dozsun. 
 Mary and Rhoda look up, Mildred discovers 
 Tom, zvho does not see her, as his back is 
 turned. She smotJiers a gasp and quickly re- 
 treats right. Rhoda enjoys this hugely.) 
 
 Tom. I stopped at Lew's office — on my way up- 
 town, but he wasn't in. 
 
 Mary. He'll be home soon. You don't mind 
 waiting. 
 
 Tom. Of course not. 
 
 (Mildred with a zvhite scarf zvrapped about her 
 shoulders, cautiously appears in doorzvay right, 
 and casting a glance toward Tom, to be sure she 
 is not seen, indignantly signals Rhoda to bring 
 her dress. As she disappears from the door- 
 way, she is hastily doing up her hair.) 
 Mary. (Indicates dress) Will you take this 
 
 Rhoda? 
 
14 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 RiiODA. Yassum. {Takes dress and goes out 
 right) 
 
 Mary. "Won't you stay and have dinner with us ? 
 
 To^i. Much obHged — but I'm going to take 
 Mildred to dinner. 
 
 Mary. Well what has Lew to do with it. Are 
 you going to take hint too ? 
 
 Tom. (Laughs) No. I heard something to- 
 day about a real estate deal — I think Lew ought to 
 know of it. (He sits by table) 
 
 Mary. It's awfully kind of you to remember 
 him. 
 
 Tom. (Taking a cigarette from case) I'd do 
 anything for Lew. He landed me in the Real 
 Estate business and showed me the ropes. If it 
 hadn't been for him, I'd have had a pretty rough 
 time. (Indicates cigarette) Do you mind? 
 
 Mary. (Gives him match holder zvhich is placed 
 on table) Go on — smoke. I suppose some of the 
 men in real estate — are tricky. 
 
 Tom. Tricky? I know one man who sells 
 corner lots that are six feet under water at lovv^ tide. 
 
 Mary. (She sits on couch facing him) Your 
 firm, handles a good deal of out of tov/n business 
 doesn't it? 
 
 Tom. Yes, we buy and sell estates — and bunga- 
 lows — and farms 
 
 Mary. Do you do much on Long Island ? 
 
 Tom. That's my department. Keeps me busy 
 too. Any man who Vv^ants to keep up with a Long 
 Island Native — on a real estate deal, m.ust put in 
 twenty-seven hours a day, and then some. 
 
 Mary. When you're going about over there, if 
 you should run across a little place — that somebody 
 wants to sell 
 
 Tom. Do you want to live in the country? 
 
 Mary. (Wistfully) I should love it. 
 
 Tom. Why don't you look over our improvement 
 at Grasslands — the lots are cheap — half an hour 
 
TIER OWN MONEY. 15 
 
 from town — we'll put tip a bungalow — {He en- 
 thusiastically goes around to hack of table taking 
 literature from his pocket) Let me show you what 
 a great place it is. 
 
 Mary. (Laughing) You are a good Real Estate 
 man. (Tom laughs, puts liis folder in his pocket 
 and goes back to his chair) I don't want a bunga- 
 low — or a summer cottage. I'd love a place for the 
 year round. 
 
 Tom. Are you and Lew thinking of living in the 
 country ? 
 
 Mary. I am — I'm always thinking of it. It's 
 my dream — I lived in the country when I was a 
 child. I love it. I hate the city. It's so crowded 
 — and hot — and dirty — and expensive. 
 
 Tom. Hasn't Lew been able to find anything you 
 like. 
 
 Mary. No. Not yet — I asked him three years 
 ago, but I don't think he took me seriously. And 
 then Lew is very busy, you know — and all his work 
 lies here in town. I suppose he has forgotten. 
 Still I think if I found a pretty little place — I could 
 persuade him to try the country. I hope I could. 
 He could have a car and motor in and out of town. 
 He'd like that 
 
 Tom. Yes, it would be jolly. I'll look about. 
 Tell me just what you'd like. 
 
 Mary. A nice little house — eight or nine rooms 
 — and a garden. Some trees about it — and flowers 
 — and some land 
 
 Tom. Oh, sort of a little farm. 
 
 Mary. Yes ; big enough to raise chickens. That 
 would give me something to do. 
 
 Tom. I might manage to pick up a bargain for 
 you, chickens and all. You ought to get a nice little 
 place for six or seven thousand dollars. How much 
 would you pay down ? 
 
 Mary. Oh — tvv^o thousand dollars, not more. 
 
j6 her own money. 
 
 (Mildred enters right. Her hair is dressed and 
 she wears the new dress.) 
 
 Mildred. Hello. {Frankly extends her hand) 
 
 Tom. Hello. {He looks at her dress admir- 
 ingly ) 
 
 Mildred. I'm glad you like it. 
 
 Tom. There are some violets — for you. {He 
 gives Mary a look) 
 
 Mildred. For me. {SJie takes violets from vase 
 and puts them on her belt) They're awfully sweet 
 Thank you. 
 
 Mary. Why didn't you tell me you were going 
 out to dinner with Tommy ? 
 
 Mildred. Oh ! Am I going out to dinner with 
 vou? 
 
 Tom. I've discovered a great little Italian place 
 — down town. They serve a corking dinner — be- 
 ginning with four miles of spaghetti 
 
 Mildred. How thrilling. Mary, will you lend 
 me your pink hat. It just matches this dress. 
 Mine won't go wnth this. 
 
 Mary. Of course. I'll get it for you. You 
 needn't be in such a hurry. Mr. Hazleton wants 
 to see Lew before he goes. {To Tom) He'll 
 be home soon. (Mary quietly goes out right) 
 
 Tom. {Thoughtfully) Home. That's a nice 
 word. Means a whole lot — doesn't it ? 
 
 Mildred. {Left) My goodness — don't look so 
 doleful. One would think you have no home. 
 
 Tom. I haven't. 
 
 Mildred. Oh what a pity. {Lightly) Mr. 
 Hazleton — Real Estate Agent — business address — 
 Brooklyn Bridge — home address Third bench to 
 the right, Madison Square Park. {She laughs) 
 What's the matter with your boarding house? 
 
 Tom. We're short on blankets — and long on 
 prunes. {He sits by table) Overhead there's a 
 lady with a parrot. The parrot thinks very well of 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 17 
 
 himself. Calls himself Pretty Polly. Tells the 
 milkman about it at daylight. A gentleman across 
 the hall has a bout with a cornet every evening. 
 The cornet always gets the best of it. 
 
 Mildred. I thought you moved to a new one last 
 week. 
 
 Tom. I did. Em going to move back to the old 
 one — next week. But it's no use. They're all alike. 
 It's no life for a man. It's too lonely. I tell you 
 Lew Alden is a lucky fellow — and I envy him every 
 time I come here. 
 
 Mildred. Oh well. Cheer up. Some day you'll 
 have a nice little home all your own 
 
 Tom. That's what Eve been working for, and 
 saving for. I want a flat like this 
 
 Mildred. I beg your pardon — this is not a flat 
 — it's an apartment. 
 
 Tom. What's the difference? No matter what 
 you call it, it's home. I want one like it. I want to 
 come home in the evening, and find someone wait- 
 ing for me. {There is a pause) Do you know who 
 I want to find there waiting? 
 
 Mildred. {Rather faintly) No. 
 
 Tom. Why — you. No one else. 
 
 Mildred. {Laughing — in a constrained man- 
 ner) Tommy — don't be silly. 
 
 Tom. I never felt so sensible. 
 
 Mildred. Mary — is sure to come in — and laugh 
 at you. 
 
 Tom. Just so you don't laugh at me 
 
 Mildred. I won't listen. {He detains her, hold- 
 ing her hand) 
 
 Tom. I know I'm not doing this very well — but 
 it's the first time I ever did it 
 
 Mildred. {Unconsciously) I should hope so. 
 
 Tom. If I only had to sell you a house — I could 
 talk for three hours 
 
 Mildred. {Uneasily) Tommy — please don't 
 hold m.y hand. 
 
i8 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Tom. I won't. If you'll promise to sit down, 
 and listen — Will you ? 
 
 Mildred. Yes, go on. {They sit on end of 
 couch; a pause) 
 
 Tori. I can't talk romance — and sigh — but I've 
 got it all here — just the same. You're the only girl 
 for me Mildred. 
 
 Mildred. Am I — Tommy? 
 
 Tom. Don't you know it? 
 
 Mildred. Yes. 
 
 Tom. Does it make any difference to you — Do 
 you care ? 
 
 Mildred. (Rising) I won't say a word — and 
 I won't listen to you any longer. You've taken me 
 — by surprise 
 
 Tom. By surprise? Why I've been your shadow 
 for two years. I fairly haunt this place — the el- 
 evator man thinks I lire here. 
 
 Mildred. I do like you Tommy — a lot — (He 
 rises quickly) but 
 
 Tom. But — (He takes ring from pocket) Will 
 you wear this Mildred? 
 
 Mildred. Oh, isn't it pretty! (Takes it and 
 admires it) 
 
 Tom. Will you wear it? 
 
 Mildred. Oh no — really 
 
 Tom. Well — just try it on. (He slips it on her 
 finger) 
 
 Mildred. It wouldn't be fair — I really don't 
 mean to keep it — you know. (She admires it) 
 
 (Enter Mary with hat.) 
 
 Mary. Here's my pink hat, Mildred. 
 
 Mildred. Thank you so. much. (Tries to slip 
 off ring. To Tom) Oh, Tommy, it won't come off, 
 
 Tom. (To Mildred) I hope it never comes off. 
 
 Mary. Here, dear. (Mildred goes to Mary to 
 take hat, keeping her hand behind her. Mary puts 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 19 
 
 the hat on Jier, and steps back to look at tJie effect. 
 There is a ring, hurried and insistent, at the door 
 in the halhvay) 
 
 Tom. Perhaps that is Lew. 
 
 Mary. Oh no. Lew has his key. {Another 
 ring) 
 
 (Rhoda passes out from dining-room into hall- 
 
 zuay. ) 
 
 Mildred. It sounds Hke Mrs. Beecher. (An- 
 other ring) 
 
 Tom. She must be in a hurry. 
 
 Mildred. She's ahva3'S in a hurry — and always 
 in trouble. 
 
 (Rhoda in halkvay opens the door and Mrs. 
 Beecher enters, talking volubly.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. How do you do Rhoda — is Mrs. 
 Alden in, or Miss Carr? I'd Hke to see them just 
 a moment — it's very important. 
 
 Mary. (Dozvn right) Come in Mrs. Beecher. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher continues to talk as she passes 
 along the halhvay, then enters the room, fol- 
 lowed by Rhoda zvho casts a disapproving look 
 upon her and goes on out right. IMrs. Beecher 
 is a woman of thirty-five. Her manner is 
 hurried — often furtive. She is faded and her 
 face is somezvhat drazvn — and lined zvith care. 
 She is zvell dressed in the manner of a woman 
 of fashion.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. [Right centre) I am so glad 
 you are at home Mrs. Alden — and I really do hope 
 I don't disturb you. How are you, my dear. (To 
 Mildred) My, what a nice little gown. And it be- 
 comes you so well. Pink is your color. Oh yes I 
 like it — it's very pretty 
 
20 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mildred. {Left centre) You know Mr. Hazle- 
 ton? 
 
 Mrs. Beeciier. {Greets him) How do you do, 
 Mr. Hazleton. So glad to see you. 
 
 Tom. Thank you. How is Mr. Beecher. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh splendid. {Uneasily) I'm 
 expecting him home every minute. {She indicates 
 to Mildred quietly to send Tom azvay) 
 
 Mildred. Tommy — Mrs. Beecher is dying to 
 talk over — my dress. Suppose you wait in Lew's 
 den. 
 
 (Tom nods and starts right) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Going extreme left in front of 
 table. Relieved) Oh don't let me drive you 
 away. 
 
 Tom. {Going) Not at all. I just ran in to see 
 Mr. Alden — on business. {Right centre) Where 
 does Lew keep his cigarettes? 
 
 Mildred. Lew doesn't smoke cigarettes. 
 
 Mary. There's a jar of tobacco on his desk 
 
 Tom. Thank you — no. I'll run next door, and 
 get what I want. 
 
 Mildred. Now don't be long 
 
 Mary. No. Lew may be here at any moment. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. So glad to have seen you Mr. 
 Hazleton. 
 
 Tom. Remember me to Mr. Beecher. {Quietly 
 goes out, halhvay) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Coming to Mary right centre) 
 Oh my dear Mrs. Alden — I am in such a pickle. 
 
 Mildred. Too bad. {Centre) 
 
 Mary. {Right) What is it? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I wonder if you can help me. 
 
 Mary. If I can, I will. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Lend me three dollars. 
 (Mildred and Mary exchange meaning looks) 
 Will you? (Mary begins to look in hand-hag) 
 I'll pay it back to you, the first thing to-morrow 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 21 
 
 morning. You see my dear, I must have It — to pay 
 the plumber. 
 
 Mildred. Only three dollars ? He can't be much 
 of a plumber. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. He's waiting now. In my 
 kitchen — He says he won't go until he gets his 
 money. So impertinent 
 
 Mary. Why not let him wait — and when your 
 husband comes 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh no. That won't do at all. 
 My husband mustn't see him — he thinks the bill is 
 paid. 
 
 Mildred. Why should he think so? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I — I told him so. 
 
 Mary. Oh— I see. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. And I really meant to pay it. A 
 week ago I asked Harvey for five dollars to pay the 
 plumber 
 
 Mildred. Five ? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes. I — I thought the bill — 
 " might " be five — and — oh — you know how men 
 are, he grumbled about it — but he gave it to me — 
 Then I forgot all about the plumber — and spent the 
 money on — something else, I needed — when Harvey 
 asked me about it — I told him I had paid it. 
 
 Mildred. How foolish — why didn't you tell him 
 you spent it 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. When you're married — you'll 
 understand why. You don't know my husband. If 
 he comes home and finds the bill unpaid — and finds 
 that I made a " mistake " in the amount — oh my 
 goodness. He's apt to be home at any moment — 
 and if you can let me have the money I promise 
 faithfully to give it back to you to-morrow morning. 
 
 Mary. (Puts doivn hag) I'm so sorry — I 
 haven't three dollars in my purse. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, dear. {Sits in the arm- 
 chair and covers her eyes zvith her handkerchief) 
 
22 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mildred. I'll let you have the money, Mrs. 
 Beecher. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh will you. Will you — I'll 
 never forget it my dear, and I promise faithfully 
 you shall have it back to-morrow. 
 
 {Elevator and Beecher's voice outside.) 
 
 Mildred. I'll get it for you. {She goes out 
 right) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh dear he mustn't see that 
 plumber. {Goes into halhvay, as Beecher, ap- 
 parently talking and laughing with some one, passes 
 along the outer hallway at hack. Mary goes to 
 left) Harvey, Harvey. Elere I am dear. In Mrs. 
 Alden's — come in. {She brings him in from the 
 outer hall, volubly talking to him) 
 
 Beecher. I'm not properly dressed. {She 
 ignores his protests that he is not presentable, etc. 
 and they come in the room. Beecher is a middle- 
 aged man, slightly bald, querulous and irritable in 
 appearance. Very well dressed) How d'ye do 
 Mrs. Alden? 
 
 Mary. Glad to see you, Mr. Beecher. Sit down. 
 
 {Putting his hat on little table in alcove room.) 
 
 Beecher. Isn't this rather an inconvenient time 
 for us to drop in. You must be just about to have 
 dinner. 
 
 Mary. Oh no. Mr. Alden isn't home yet. Sit 
 down. {She sits left and sezvs) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes dear. Do sit down, and 
 rest. You must be tired. {She presses him into 
 arm-chair and leans over him' in a caressing man- 
 ner — meanzvhile watching anxiously for Mildred) 
 So glad you're home. 
 
 Beecher. {In rather a sarcastic manner) Yes, 
 so I see. {He looks at her, in rather a puzzled 
 zvay) 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 23 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I was just trying to persuade 
 Mrs. Alden, and her husband to come over and play 
 five hundred — to-night. 
 
 Beecher. To-night? We're going to the Roof 
 Garden to-night. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh are we? How nice — I just 
 love a roof garden, don't you Mrs. Alden. 
 
 Mary. I very seldom go 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. You ought to go out more. 
 " Have a good time while you're living — you'll be 
 a long time dead." Let's see — who said that — was 
 it Mark Twain or Brigham Young? 
 
 Beecher. {Emphatically) I'll lay ten to one — 
 it was not Brigham Young. 
 
 {Enter Mildred right. She has money in her hand. 
 She sees Mr. Beecher and is surprised and 
 ill at ease. Slips money behind her. Mrs. 
 Beecher is also ill at ease.) 
 
 Mildred. Good evening, Air. Beecher. {Offers 
 him her hand) 
 
 Beecher. {Rising) How d'ye do Miss Carr — 
 {He shakes her hand) 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher zvorks around right, back of 
 
 Mildred.) 
 
 Mildred. Splendid. Don't let me disturb you. 
 
 Beecpier. Oh but we're going. 
 
 Mary. Oh don't be in a hurry. 
 
 Mildred. {Trying to think of something to hold 
 him) How did the second race go to-day? 
 
 Beecher. Luxembourg won in a walk. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Harvey — have you been betting 
 on the races again. 
 
 Beecher. Luxembourg wasn't a gamble. He 
 was a sure thing. I got down two to one on him, 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh you zuon — how nice. 
 (Mildred standing facing Mr. Beecher. Mrs. 
 
24 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Beecher comes up behind her and takes the money) 
 
 Beech ER. Say — while I think of it — next time 
 you have anything wrong about the house, go to 
 another phimber. (Mrs. Beecher, dismayed, re- 
 presses it) You too, ]\Irs. Alden. This fellow 
 Turner, at the corner stopped me, this morning — 
 and dunned me 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh that bill was paid a week 
 ago. 
 
 Beecher. That's what I told him. 
 
 Mrs, Beecher. I've got a receipt 
 
 Beecher. I'll take it down there and show it to 
 him.. (He moves as if to go to door) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Hastily) I'll get it for you. 
 
 Beecher. Come on. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Desperately) Oh, by the way, 
 Miss Carr was asking me about to-morrow's races 
 — I told her you would knov/. (Mildred is an- 
 noyed. As soon as Beecher turns to Mildred, 
 Mrs. Beecher slips a-way and goes out through 
 halhvay, unseen by Beecher) 
 
 Beecher. (Laughing) Do you play the ponies ? 
 
 Mildred. No, but I think races are awfully in- 
 teresting. I suppose you've got a — " long shot '* 
 picked for to-morrow. 
 
 Beecher. Yes, in the third race — Bantam. 
 He'll go to the post ten to one. There'll be a killing 
 — I'll clean up 
 
 (Elevator is heard in the hallway.) 
 
 Mary. Oh, there's Lew. 
 
 Mildred. (Impulsively) Thank Heavens. 
 
 Beecher. Eh ? 
 
 Mildred. (Lying to Beecher glibly) We 
 can't have supper till he comes, and I'm starved. 
 (She goes toward right) 
 
 (Lew Alden comes in from halhvay. He is a 
 strongly built, kindly faced, zvell dressed man 
 of forty.) 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 25 
 
 Alden. {To Mary zi)ho meets him) How's 
 Mary. (Kisses her) 
 
 Mary. Glad you're home. (She remains right) 
 
 Alden. Sorry I'm late. (To Mildred) Hello 
 Sis. (Sees Beecher) How are you, Beecher? 
 
 Beecher. Hello Alden. (They shake hands) 
 
 Alden. Haven't seen much of you this week. 
 (He goes up in little room back and puts down 
 magazines and papers) 
 
 Beecher. No. There was some talk of a game 
 of five hundred to-night. But we're going out. 
 
 Alden. Come over and play to-morrow night. 
 
 Mary. Yes, do. 
 
 Beecher. I'll see what Mrs. Beecher says. (He 
 looks about for her) Why where is she? 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher comes in quickly from halhvay and 
 glances at Mildred. Her face shozvs relief. 
 She nods in a confidential manner at Mary.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh — good evening Mr. Alden. 
 (To Beecher) See Harvey. Here's the receipt. 
 (He looks at it) See it is dated a week ago, and 
 there's the workman's name. 
 
 Beecher. I'll bet that fellow held out on the 
 boss. (Chuckles) Is that a three or a five. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh a five dear. (Taking the 
 receipt from him quickly) That's what I paid him. 
 But aren't you ever coming home. (He stares. 
 She folds up the receipt and tucks it in her bosom) 
 We mustn't keep IMr. and Mrs. Alden from their 
 dinner. 
 
 Mary. So glad you ran in. 
 
 Alden. To-morrow night then. 
 
 Beecher. Yes, after dinner. (To Mildred and 
 Mary) Good evening. (They bozv) Say if you 
 want a sure thing in the third race to-morrow. 
 
 Alden. No thanks. (They start out into hall 
 chatting) 
 
26 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Let's go shopping to-morrow, 
 Mrs. Alden. (Back of chair right) 
 
 Mary. Shopping. {Left of chair) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes Harvey won to-day and if 
 I don't spend it, he's sure to lose to-morrow. He 
 ahvays loses on a sure thing. (Alden and Beecher 
 just going out of hall door) I'm so much obliged 
 to you dear, and I'll return the loan early in the 
 morning. 
 
 Mildred. I'm glad to help you out. (Right of 
 chair) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Good night. 
 
 Mildred & Mary. Good night. Good night. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher goes into hallway.) 
 
 Mildred. Isn't she dreadful. I felt so ashamed. 
 
 Mary. What a horrible life she leads — I wish 
 
 I wish we didn't know them. 
 
 Mildred. I suppose I'm a fool, but I couldn't 
 help lending her the money. {Going centre) 
 
 Mary. She forces me to help her deceive her 
 husband. She insists on confiding to me the most 
 unpleasant things about their life. 
 
 Mildred. He's a selfish thing — always playing 
 the races — while she always needs money. 
 
 (Lew comes hack from the hallway.) 
 
 Lew. What are you two doing — ^gossiping? 
 
 Mary. Tommy Hazleton was here to see you. 
 He'll be back presently. {To Mildred) Oh— my 
 dear aren't you going to wear gloves. 
 
 Mildred. Oh yes, I forgot. I'll get them. 
 {She goes out right) 
 
 Alden. What was the matter with Mrs. 
 Beecher ? 
 
 Mary. {Busy at table right zvith bills) I didn't 
 notice anything wrong. 
 
 Alden. Where are your eyes — she's in trouble — 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 27 
 
 it's plain to me — and I'm a " mere man." (Busy 
 zvith papers and magazines. He Jiands her one as 
 she passes. She says: " thank yoit ") 
 
 Mary. (Lightly) I believe she did say some- 
 thing about a misunderstanding with a plumber — ■ 
 (Goes to couch left of table and puts bills on table) 
 
 Alden. (Nods) I see. The Beechers seem to 
 be always having trouble about money. (Throzving 
 zvrapper of magazines into basket by desk) 
 
 Mary. (Quietly) Yes. But that's rather com- 
 monplace, isn't it? Nearly every married couple 
 seems to have some sort of difficulty about money. 
 
 Alden. We're one of the luck}^ exceptions, 
 
 Mary. Are we? 
 
 Alden. Why of course. I don't remember that 
 we've ever had a word about money — since we've 
 been married — Do you? (He sits right of table 
 centre) 
 
 Mary. No. 
 
 Alden. Of course we never have as much as w€ 
 want (Lauglis) but then no one ever has that much. 
 
 Mary. I suppose not. 
 
 Alden. Still, we seem to get on. We have — 
 enough — eh ? 
 
 ]\Iary. Yes — Vv'e seem to get on. 
 
 Alden. (He looks at her curiously) Is any- 
 thing wrong? 
 
 Mary. Nothing. 
 
 Alden. (Goes to her) Sure? (She shakes her 
 head) I'm glad. I do the best I can, (She nods) 
 The little place here isn't much, but it's all I can 
 afford just now. We seem to have bully little 
 dinners, and Rhoda is a good darkey to work. You 
 have a charge account at Franklin Simon's — and you 
 always look v/ell, I see many women more ex- 
 pensively dressed, but none that looks any prettier. 
 (Pinches her cheek) It isn't that I don't want a 
 fine house — it isn't that I don't want you to have a 
 car — and lots of fine things 
 
28 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. I don't want a car, and fine things, Lew. 
 I know you work hard, and do the best you can 
 
 Alden. Then what is it you do want. What's the 
 matter ? 
 
 Mary. I am not complaining. 
 
 Alden. I wish you would. If there's anything 
 wrong, tell me. If I can, I'll set it right. (He looks 
 at her a moment. She says nothing) You've some- 
 thing on your mind — (He turns from her and passes 
 the table. He sees the bills, picks one up, looks at it, 
 then picks up others, and glances at them) Bills? 
 
 Mary. Yes. 
 
 Alden. Is that's w^hat bothering you? (Looking 
 them over) Nothing to worry about here. 
 
 Mary. No. They're just the same as usual 
 
 Alden. They're never big. You're the best little 
 housekeeper in New York. I'll settle these in the 
 morning. Gas — Electric light — Butcher — Baker — 
 Green Grocer. (Looks at her) Is this all? 
 (Lightly) Have yo^l had a "misunderstanding" 
 with a plumber? 
 
 Mary. Of course not. 
 
 Alden. (Putting bills in his pocket) You don't 
 owe — something — you're afraid to tell me. 
 
 Mary. If I owed anything, I shouldn't be afraid 
 to tell you. 
 
 Alden. Of course not. " Afraid " isn't the word. 
 Reluctant — I paid a hundred and a quarter for a 
 dress suit last year. I remember I was '' reluctant " 
 to tell you about it 
 
 Mary. (Smiling) I told you to get it — and I 
 kept after you till you did get it. It was worth the 
 money 
 
 Alden. (Looks at her in thought) You don't 
 need any money do you? 
 
 Mary. Yes. 
 
 Alden. Is that what you've been worrying about ? 
 Well — well why didn't you ask me ? 
 
 Mary. That's just it — I hate to ask you. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 29 
 
 Alden. {Puzzled) You — hate to — ask me? 
 
 Mary. For money — yes. 
 
 Alden. But why ? I'm your husband. 
 
 Mary. That doesn't make it easier 
 
 Alden. You're welcome to all I've got, if you 
 want it. You've a right to it. Have I ever refused 
 3^ou ? 
 
 Mary. No. 
 
 Alden. {With grozving wonder) But you hate 
 to ask me? 
 
 Mary. {Clasping her hands, nervously) Yes. 
 Yes,. Oh, if you knew how I hate it. If you could 
 only know how every woman hates it. 
 
 Alden. Come on, let's talk this over. I never 
 had an idea — of anything like this. Why do you 
 hate it ? 
 
 Mary. It's humiliating. 
 
 Alden. Not a bit. I enjoy giving it to you — just 
 as much as you enjoy spending it. Good Lord 
 Mary — don't let a little thing like this make you 
 unhappy 
 
 Mary. It isn't a little thing:. 
 
 Alden. But I don't understand 
 
 Mary. Of course you don't. No man can under- 
 stand — Try and put yourself in my place. {As he 
 rises and slozvly goes to right center) 
 
 Alden. {Laughing) I wish I could get all I 
 want, merely by asking for it. {Pulls money out of 
 his pocket) How much do you want? 
 
 Mary. Twenty dollars. 
 
 Alden. {In good-humored zvonder) What for? 
 {Counting out money) 
 
 (Mary looks at him and turns azvay repressing 
 
 agitation.) 
 
 Mary. {Slozvly) What for? That's the ques- 
 tion that makes a woman realize — she is only a wife. 
 
 Alden. {Going to table) I'm sorry. I didn't 
 mean to ask that ; I spoke before I thought. 
 
30 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. I know — but the question was in your 
 mind. A husband gives his wife shelter, food, 
 clothes, luxuries — and when she asks for money, he 
 wonders what she wants with it. That's why every 
 woman hates to ask. That's why I hate it. It 
 makes me feel so — so dependent. It's like a child 
 saying '* father give me a nickel to buy some candy." 
 
 Alden. Come now, you're supersensitive about 
 it. Every business has a treasurer. A household is 
 a sort of business. But what's mine is yours. You 
 get just as much of it, as I do — more in fact. Out- 
 side my business — I don't spend 
 
 Mary. It isn't how much you spend Lew — or 
 how much you are willing to give me. The point is 
 that if you only have ten cents, you can spend it 
 without anyone saying " what are you going to 
 spend that for " or wondering what you are going to 
 spend it for. Before we were married, I was tak- 
 ing care of myself — I earned my living. My salary 
 was mine — I never had to account for it. 
 
 Alden. But you've had more since we married — 
 
 Mary. But not the same independence. 
 
 Alden. I never knew you felt this way — why 
 have you never spoken of it ? Why honey, you know 
 I love you, and I wouldn't do anything to hurt you 
 for the world 
 
 Mary. I know you wouldn't Lew 
 
 Alden. But it doesn't seem to me there's any 
 help for it. 
 
 Mary. Yes there is. I should love to feel that 
 I am not only your wife — but your partner. I 
 should love to help you — to save 
 
 Alden. You do help me. You've made a home 
 for me — that's your end. You take care of that, 
 and let me fight it out down town. I'll take care of 
 you — and do the saving 
 
 Mary. How much have you saved Lew? 
 
 Alden. Well — I've not begun to save yet. Fm 
 establishing a business that will pay later on, and as 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 31 
 
 fast as I get money, I put it in that. But things are 
 looking brighter all the time. Now promise me, 
 whenever anything troubles you, you won't hide it, 
 but come and have it out, and we'll settle it as we 
 have settled this. 
 
 Mary. But we haven't settled this. 
 
 Alden. Of course we have. As wxll as it can 
 be settled. You hate to ask for money. I won't 
 wait to be asked. Understand ? I don't grudge you 
 anything I've got, so if I don't remember, just re- 
 mind me. {He lights a cigar) 
 
 Mary. You don't seem to understand just what 
 I'm trying to tell you. 
 
 Alden. I'm afraid not — Don't be unreasonable 
 Mary. What do you suggest. What do you want 
 me to do? Tell me. 
 
 Mary. If you only gave me one dollar a week — I 
 should like to have it at a certain time without hav- 
 ing to remind you. 
 
 Alden. I'm trying to fix it that way, only it seems 
 you're not rebelling against me, but against marriage, 
 against custom — A wife doesn't get a salary. 
 
 Mary. I wonder why. 
 
 Alden. (Affectionately) Because honey, if they 
 did, I couldn't afford you, for you'd draw down a 
 salary that only a millionaire could pay 
 
 (Enter Mildred right.) 
 
 Mildred. Mary, I took a pair of yours. You 
 don't mind, do you ? 
 
 Mary. Oh, no. 
 
 Alden. I think I'll shave before dinner. 
 
 Mary. You'll have to hurry. 
 
 Lew. Just once over. (Goes out right) 
 
 Mildred. Hasn't Tommy come back yet ? 
 
 Mary. Not yet. (She begins to add figures at 
 her desk ) 
 
 Mildred. This is once he can't say I kept him 
 
32 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 waiting. By the way — have you my bank book? 
 {Left of couch) 
 Mary. Yes. {Hands her a hank hook) 
 Mildred. I want to leave it at the bank to- 
 morrow to be balanced. I'm afraid I haven't any- 
 thing left — since I paid for my dress. 
 
 {There is fJie sound of an argument between Mr. 
 and Mrs. Beecher coming from the court 
 through the windozv tip left. Mary and 
 Mildred express distaste.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Now Harvey am I going to get 
 that money, or am I notf 
 
 Beecher. You are not. What do you think I 
 am, a millionaire? {He slams down the windozv) 
 
 Mildred. I think she asked him for a nickel. 
 (Mildred casually opens and glances at hank book) 
 Two thousand dollars — first of the month. (Mary 
 starts slightly and looks np. Mildred looks at 
 hook) Why this isn't mine. 
 
 Mary. {Quietly) No. It's mine. {Goes to her. 
 Takes the hook, exchanges it for another which is 
 in same compartment of desk. She gives Mildred 
 her hook and locks her ozvn in desk compartment.) 
 
 Mildred. Yours. Two thousand dollars. Oh, 
 you plutocrat. 
 
 Mary. {Glancing off right) S-s-sh. {Raises a 
 zvarning finger) 
 
 Mildred. Oh ! Lew doesn't know ! 
 
 Mary. Nobody knows — except you. 
 
 Mildred. Where did you get it? 
 
 Mary. I saved it. I've been saving it — for 
 years. A little at time. Saved it out of what Lew 
 has given me. And I didn't rob him of any com- 
 fort. He's never missed anything. But I watched 
 the expenses. I cut them to the bone — if it was 
 only pennies. I saved them. I denied myself. I 
 love pretty dresses, but I've hunted bargains. I 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 33 
 
 love nice lingerie. I've made my own. I've 
 skimped and stinted. Oh my God — when I think 
 of what that two thousand dollars means to me — 
 {Gradually during speech she goes out to centre) 
 
 Mildred. And it's yours — ^your ov/n. {Left) 
 
 Mary. Don't you think I'A^e earned it. 
 
 Mildred. I don't think it's worth what you've 
 gone through to get it. Hasn't Lew ever suspected ? 
 
 Mary. V/hat ? That I did without ? JMen don't 
 notice shabbiness in a wife. They notice extrav- 
 agance. 
 
 Mildred. {Pu:;zled) I know it wasn't just for 
 the money— why did you do it? {She sits on the 
 couch) 
 
 ^ Mary. So that some day I could get out of the 
 city. I want a little country home. 
 
 Mildred. I don't see why you should do all the 
 saving. 
 
 Mary. Lew can't save — At least he doesn't. He 
 won't let me help him. 
 
 Mildred. When he finds out, he will be so 
 ashamed. 
 
 Mary. More likely, he'll be angry. 
 
 Mildred. {Thoughfully) I shouldn't wonder— 
 because you're keeping it a secret. 
 
 Mary. I'd feel guilty if I were doing it for my- 
 self alone— but it's for us. Every dollar Lew gets, 
 goes into his business. That's why I'm keeping this 
 to myself. If he knew I had it— it would go. 
 
 Mildred. He'd pay it back though ; wouldn't he ? 
 
 Mary. If Lew borrowed money from a stranger, 
 it would be repaid the day it was due. But {She 
 hesitates) when Lev/ and I were married, I had a 
 little money. Not much,— only five hundred dollars. 
 I had earned it. 1 had planned what to do with it. 
 There came a sudden crisis in Lew's business. He 
 had ^to have money, quick. I loaned him— five 
 hundred dollars. He never — paid it back. 
 
 Mildred. Never paid it back 
 
34 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. Understand — he didn't mean to take my 
 money. He meant to repay it. He means to give it 
 to me — some day. He has mentioned it often — but 
 — he ahvays puts it off. And he laughs — and pays 
 me the interest (She walks across to left) 
 
 Mildred. I'd hate anyone that would do that to 
 me — no matter who 
 
 Mary. Lew loves me Mildred — and I love him. 
 He's not dishonest — he's thoughtless. 
 
 Mildred. Are all men like that ? 
 
 Mary. No. Only husbands. 
 
 (Elevator door slams. Tommy Hazleton is heard 
 zvhistUng cheerfully outside the hall door.) 
 
 Mildred. There's Tommy. (She goes to hall- 
 way and calls to him) Oo — oo ! (The hall door 
 opens) Come in Tommy — Lew's home. (Tommy 
 comes in from hallway and looks around) She's 
 gone. 
 
 (Tommy snickers.) 
 
 Mary. (Calls off right) Lew. Oh Lew. 
 
 Lew. (Off right) Yes, dear. 
 
 Mary. Here's Mr. Hazleton. 
 
 Lew. Just a minute. 
 
 Mary. (To Tom) He's coming. 
 
 Mildred. Now, I suppose, you've something 
 very important, and very secret, to discuss, and 
 you'd like to have the whole place to yourselves. 
 (SJie smilingly goes into rear room and softly plays 
 the piano) 
 
 (Enter Lew Alden.) 
 
 Alden. Hello Tommy. 
 
 Tommy. Hello, Lew. 
 
 Alden. Been waiting long? 
 
 Tommy. About four cigarettes and an evening 
 paper. (Mary starts out) Don't let me drive you 
 away, Mrs. Alden. This isn't a lodge meeting. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 35 
 
 {He hands Lew a bulky envelope zvhich contains 
 legal papers. Mary goes in alcove rootn zvith 
 IMjldred) 
 
 Alden. Hello. What's this? (Left) 
 
 Tom. The papers for the Page Property Deal. 
 (Left centre) 
 
 Alden. Is the deal off? (Toms nods) But 
 Howard wants it. 
 
 Tom. He can't put up the cash. 
 
 Alden. I considered it settled. I've been count- 
 ing on it. Do you know where you can reach him, 
 on the 'phone. 
 
 Tom. I suppose he's at home. 
 
 Alden. Call him up will you Tommy. See if he 
 can't manage the first payment. It means a lot to 
 me to have that to-morrow. 
 
 Tom. I'll have a try. (He goes into halhvav, 
 then into Lew's den) Hello — Columbus 7090^- 
 (He closes door) 
 
 Mary. (In arch of back room. To Mildred) 
 S-s-sh. 'Phone. (Mildred stops playing. Mary 
 approaches Lew sympathetically) Too bad your 
 business follows you home — I hope it's nothing 
 serious. 
 
 Alden. It's a rotten trick of this man Howard. 
 I put a deal through for him. It cost me time and 
 money. Now he backs down. 
 
 Mildred. (Comes into room) Has Tommy 
 gone again? 
 
 Mary. He's using the telephone in Lew's den. 
 (To Alden) It's too bad dear, but don't worry. 
 
 Alden. When Howard told me he was sure to 
 close this deal to-day, I paid a thousand dollars on 
 an option on a factory site. I can sell it in a month 
 for ten thousand dollars. There's a crowd that 
 simply has to have it. There's twenty-five hundred 
 due to-morrow. If I don't pay it, I'll lose my 
 thousand — and the prospective profit. 
 
 Mary. Well, can't you borrow the money. 
 
36 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Alden. I'm carrying all I can bear on another 
 big deal — caught without ready money — and no 
 .security I can realize on, quickly. 
 
 Mary. {With deep feeling) Oh, I'm so sorry 
 Lew — so sorry. 
 
 Alden. Now don't you worry, Mary. Serves 
 me right. It will teach me a lesson. 
 
 Mildred. Oh Lew, I hope you don't lose your 
 money. 
 
 Tom. {Comes out of den) I've got Howard on 
 the wire Lew — he just told me a corking lie — and 
 he wants to tell you a few. Come talk to him. 
 
 (Alden joins Tommy in the hallway and his voice 
 is heard an instant on the 'phone. Then door 
 closes. ) 
 
 Mildred. {Looking at Mary) Poor Lew. 
 {Right of table) 
 
 Mary. Poor Lew. {On couch) 
 
 Mildred. Too bad to think of him losing his 
 money. 
 
 Mary. Yes — it's so much. 
 
 Mildred. And the profit too. 
 
 Mary. I know what you're thinking, Mildred. 
 {She rises and zvalks about restlessly) 
 
 Mildred. Couldn't you — just this once 
 
 Mary. {Rising and going toward right) Oh I 
 want to — I want to — but I can't. I mustn't. A 
 thousand dollars means a good deal to Lew — but it 
 means everything to me. You can't realize how 
 hard it has been to get it together. It might be lost. 
 I don't dare to let him know I've got it — {With 
 great emotion) Oh, I don't know what to do — I 
 don't know what to do. (Mary right) 
 
 {The voices of Tom ajid Alden are heard in con- 
 versation and they re-enter the room.) 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 37 
 
 Lew. That fellow always was a piker. {He 
 goes left) 
 
 Tom. He can certainly think up more gilt edge 
 excuses 
 
 Alden. I was a fool to pay any attention to him. 
 
 Tom. Well, I'll see you downtown to-morrow. 
 {To Mildred) I'm sorry I've kept you waiting 
 
 Mildred. Shall we go ? 
 Tom. If you're ready 
 
 Mary. I hope you have a nice time. {Going 
 into hall with Mildred) 
 
 Tom. {Goes to Lew) By the way, I can let you 
 have eight hundred if that will help any. (Lew 
 shakes hands zvith Tom) Now for the raviola and 
 the red ink. {All bid each other good night. Tom 
 and Mildred go out) 
 
 Mary. Oh, it's hard luck, Lew. {She goes to 
 him and caresses him) 
 
 Alden. The worst of it is that it's practically a 
 sure thing — any time in the next fifteen days, and if 
 I had a few days' time, I could get the money. 
 Tommy says he'll lend me eight hundred 
 
 Mary. Oh isn't that good of him. Eight 
 hundred. I wish / could help you. I wish I — 
 could. 
 
 Alden. Why, of course? I know you'd help me, 
 if you could. 
 
 Mary. And you say it's sure ? 
 
 Alden. Absolutely. 
 
 (Mary stands behind him a moment, out of his 
 sight. She looks at him, and her mental 
 struggle shozvs in her face.) 
 
 Mary. Lew — I — (Beecher is heard zvhistling 
 through the ivindoiv in the court. Mary hears him, 
 and glances through zvindozv) 
 
 Alden. What did you say Mary ? 
 
38 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. Sam Mears lives just around the corner. 
 
 Alden. Yes. I rode home in his car. 
 
 Mary. You lent him money once ; without secur- 
 
 Alden. He paid it back — but it was a favor. 
 He might do as much for me — I'll 'phone him — 
 (He starts out, she goes zvith him) 
 
 Mary. No. Don't telephone. Someone down- 
 stairs might listen. I don't want people in the house 
 to know our affairs. Slip around there. {She 
 gives him his hat) See him 
 
 Alden. You're right. I will. That's a good 
 idea of yours, Mary. {At door) You know you're 
 a wise little thing — and the best little wife in the 
 world. 
 
 Mary. Am I ? 
 
 Alden. {Going up hallway) I won't be gone 
 long — Everything v/ill come right 
 
 {The door closes in outer hallway. Mary sighs. 
 Then with resolution approaches the zvindow 
 and speaks out) 
 
 Mary. {Quietly) Mr. Beecher 
 
 (Beecher in his zvindow, about to drink, chokes.) 
 
 Beecher. {Off left) What is it Mrs. Alden. 
 
 Mary. Can you run over a moment. My hus- 
 band wants to speak to you. 
 
 Beecher. Certainly. You don't mind if I keep 
 my slippers on — do you 
 
 ^jNIary. Not at all. Not at all. 
 
 Beecher. {Explaining to Jiis zvife) Alden 
 wants to see me. I'm going over. {Disappears) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Looks out) Is that you, Mrs. 
 Alden. 
 
 Mary. {Gaily) Yes. We'll take good care of 
 Mr. Beecher and return him immediately. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 39 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes, we're going to the roof 
 garden. 
 
 (]\Irs. Beeciier laughs and the sound of her voice 
 dies away. Mary goes to desk. Unlocks com- 
 partment. Gets out her check book. Sits at 
 table and makes out a check. Beecher is 
 heard at outer halhvay door.) 
 
 Mary. Rhoda. (Rhoda comes in and admits 
 Beeciier. Beecher comes through halhvay into 
 the room. Rhoda goes out) Sit down. 
 
 (He sits in arm-chair right and looks about.) 
 
 Beecher. Where's Alden ? 
 
 Mary. He'll be here in a moment. Before he 
 comes I want to speak to you. 
 
 Beecher. Certainly. If there's anything I can 
 
 do 
 
 Mary. You can do me a great favor. (Ap- 
 proaching' him) Now — don't be surprised — I want 
 you to lend my husband — two thousand dollars. 
 
 Beecher. (Lightly) If I had two thousand 
 dollars, I'd buy a half interest in Central Park. 
 
 Mary. I'm not joking. 
 
 Beecher. Frankly, Mrs. Alden — where do you 
 suppose I'm going to raise two thousand dollars 
 
 Mary. / will lend it to you, and you will lend it 
 to my husband. (She hands him a check) 
 
 Beecher. (Looks at the check) Pay to Harvey 
 Beecher — two thousand dollars — But why don't you 
 lend it to him ? 
 
 Mary. Why I — I don't want him to know it 
 comes from me. (Quickly) Mr. Alden is in a 
 difficulty. I'm — not supposed to know — you see. 
 (He nods) But Mr. Hazleton told me. You can 
 say he told you. Mr. Alden needs this money at 
 once. Even if I " knew " I fear it would humiliate 
 
40 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 him to accept assistance from me — when he went 
 into the affair — against my advice. 
 
 Beecher. I see. I see. 
 
 Mary. So I must not appear in it, at all. You 
 just come along, as a business man — lend him the 
 money — take his note. 
 
 Beecher. Six per cent — three months 
 
 Mary. That's usual? 
 
 Beecher. Quite. 
 
 Mary. When he pays it back to you — you can 
 give it back to me. He will think there has been 
 an ordinary business deal — and his pride will not 
 be hurt. {She goes toward desk) Here is my bank 
 book to show you the money is available. 
 
 Beecher. (Rising) Not necessary — I assure 
 you 
 
 Mary. Will you do this for me ? 
 
 Beecher. Gladly and I'm proud to share your 
 confidence. I'm proud you trust me — And you're 
 a woman in a thousand. Just to protect you — (He 
 zvrifes) here's my I. O. U. for two thousand. (He 
 offers her I. O. U.) 
 
 Mary. I don't need that 
 
 Beecher. Take it — I might get excited and play 
 a sure thing — then where would you be. (He 
 laughs) 
 
 Mary. (Takes the I. 0. U.) And please ar- 
 range it so the money reaches him early in the 
 morning. 
 
 Beecher. May I trouble you for an envelope, 
 and a sheet of paper? 
 
 Mary. Oh, there's lots here on my desk. (He 
 goes to desk) 
 
 Beecher. I'll kite a check. 
 
 Mary. (Back of him) I don't know what that 
 is but it sounds dansrerous. 
 
 Beecher. (Glancing at zvindow) I think the 
 light is better here. (He rnoves to table in alcove 
 room) I'm sending your check to my bank. It 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 41 
 
 will be there in the morning when the bank opens 
 
 Mary. Sure. 
 
 Beecher. Have a special delivery stamp ? 
 
 Mary. No, but here are six two's. 
 
 Beecher. That's alright. {He puts several 
 stamps^ on the envelope. Scribbles a note, puts 
 check in letter, seals it.) Have your maid mail it 
 at once, please. 
 
 Mary. Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. 
 
 Mary. Drop this in the mail chute, please. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. {She goes out zvith letter) 
 
 Beecher. I'll give him my check. He'll cash it 
 early. Now don't worry — everything is all right. 
 
 Mary. And he'll never suspect it came from me. 
 
 Beecher. No. Now to turn to strictly personal 
 matters. {Elevator door slams out right) When 
 Mrs. Beecher asks me what Mr. Alden wanted v/ith 
 me, what shall I tell her? 
 
 (Alden comes in from outer halhvay.) 
 
 Alden. Saw Mears. He can let me have it next 
 week. Oh— hello, Beecher. {He moodily sits in 
 chair, right) 
 
 Beecher. Haven't got a minute — just dropped 
 m. (Mary signals to Beecher) Tom Hazleton 
 says you need ready cash to pull you through a deal 
 —Well, I made a killing to-day— and if a couple of 
 thousand Vv^'ll help you out - 
 
 Alden. Beecher— this is great. It's fine of you 
 — But I can't give you any security 
 
 Beecher. I'll take your note. 
 
 Alden. Do you mean it 
 
 Beecher. Of course. {Going tozcard desk) 
 Suppose we clean up now — vve're going to the Roof 
 Garden. {Begins to zvrite at desk) 
 
 Alden. I say, old man, you don't know what 
 this means to me — {Up left) 
 
42 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Beecher. Cut out the gratitude. (Laughing) 
 Some day when I've won a long shot, I'll let you 
 sell me a house and lot. 
 
 Alden. You see, dear — everything is all right. 
 Thanks to Beecher 
 
 Mary. Thanks to Mr. Beecher. (Timidly) 
 Can't T help you any. Lew ? 
 
 (Rhoda quietly enters.) 
 
 Alden. No, honey. Tm all right now. 
 (Pinches her cheek) Beecher and I will fix this 
 up in a moment. (Smiling) What do you know 
 about business, eh? 
 
 Mary. (Ironically) Nothing. Come Rhoda. 
 We'll get dinner. 
 
 (Rhoda goes out. Mary stap.ds in the doorzvay 
 R., zvatching them. Beecher takes Alden's 
 note.) 
 
 CURTAIN. 
 
 ACT 11. 
 
 Scene: — The Second Act occurs in the Alden 
 Apartment, the following evening at seven- 
 thirty. When the curtain rises, the stage is 
 empty. The room is almost dark. A bright 
 light shines through chinks in the curtains, on 
 arch to dining room, and the rattle of dishes 
 and sound of cutlery is heard. Mary and 
 Mildred are dining. Singing is heard from 
 the court.) 
 
 Mary. (Off right) Turn on the lights in the 
 living room Rhoda. Mr. and Mrs. Beecher are 
 
I-IER OWN MONEY. 43 
 
 coming over. They may be here at any moment. 
 
 (Rhoda enters. She listeiis to tJie quartette, then 
 turns up light. She starts back to dining 
 room.) 
 
 Rtioda. Why don't you eat something. 
 Mary. (Off) I'm not hungry, Rhoda. 
 Mildred. {Off) This chicken is lovely. 
 
 (The door-bell in the halhvay rings.) 
 
 Mary. (Off) See who that is — Rhoda 
 
 (Rhoda conies from dining room, goes into hall- 
 ivay and opens the door.) 
 
 Mildred. (Off) Maybe it's Tommy. (Peeps 
 through curtains) 
 
 (At end of halhvay the voices of jMr. and ]Mrs. 
 Beecher are Jieard greeting Rhoda a7id 
 Rhoda's voice in reply — then the outside 
 door closes and all come dovini the hallway, in 
 general conversation. Mildred disappointed 
 retires from the curtains.) 
 
 Rhoda. Set down please. (Going right) Mis' 
 Alden, heah's 1\lv. Beecher an' his lady. (She 
 goes into dininci room) 
 
 Mary. (Off) Oh!! Yes— I'm so glad. (Mary 
 comes in from dining room) Good evening. 
 
 Beecher. Good evening. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. How are you this evening, dear? 
 
 Mary. Oh splendid — so glad you've come in. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. ^Vre we early? 
 
 Mary. No, we're late. Mr. Alden hasn't come 
 home yet. He's delayed down town, on business. 
 We waited for him until after seven, so we're 
 just eating dinner 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, please don't let us interrupt 
 — go on and finish your dinner 
 
 Mary. We won't be long — and Mr. Alden is 
 
44 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 sure to be home soon. Sure you don't mind wait- 
 ing 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Of course not. I'll be glad to 
 have a tete-a-tete with my husband. (Laughing) 
 I see so little of him at home, you know. 
 
 (Beecher glances at her.) 
 
 Mary. You can smoke if you like Mr. Beecher. 
 Just make yourselves comfortable. (Mary goes 
 into dining room) 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher gives Beecher a meaning glance.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Sarcastically) Late. 
 
 Beecher. Well, what of it? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Of course it's none of our busi- 
 ness, but I don't suppose he'll feel like playing five 
 hundred, when he does get home. 
 
 Beecher. What's the use of saying a rotten 
 thing like that? 
 
 Mrs Beecher. Well, I always know what to 
 expect when you're late. 
 
 Beecher. Cut that out, will you. Alden doesn't 
 drink a drop. (He sits in chair by extreme left fac- 
 ing Mrs. Beecher) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Isn't that nice — and so dif- 
 ferent. (Seated on end of couch) 
 
 Beecher. Well, why should he? His wife is a 
 bully little woman. (Mrs. Beecher bridles) And 
 he's got a nice comfortable home. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I suppose you're trying to imply 
 that / drive you to drink. And how easy it is to 
 pull the wool over a man's eyes. His wife 
 seems lovely to you, but if you knew what / 
 know — (Shakes her head) Stingy? — Oh dread- 
 ful — And she's so dowdy. She never spends a 
 penny on herself. But I suppose that's a virtue in 
 your eyes. You'd like me to wear calico — And I 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 45 
 
 don't see anything so wonderful about the Alden 
 home. I think this room is in wretched taste. 
 
 Beecher. {Stretching out) Well, it's comfort- 
 able. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Perhaps if you gave me as much 
 money, as Mr. Alden gives his wife 
 
 Beecher. There you go — money, money, money, 
 — can't you ever think of anything but money? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Can't you think of it once in a 
 while ? 
 
 Beecher. I'm not allowed to think of anything 
 else. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I never have enough. 
 
 Beecher. You couldn't get enough. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. The idea of your losing all your 
 winnings to-day. 
 
 Beecher. Do you suppose I lost purposely ? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I told you that you'd lose. Why 
 didn't you give it to me? 
 
 Beecher. I wanted a run for my money. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. When you married me, you 
 promised I should have everything I want. 
 
 Beecher. Well, I didn't know you'd want the 
 earth. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I'm growing tired of it Harvey. 
 If you can waste money at the races, you can give 
 me enough to make a decent appearance. 
 
 Beecher. \A'ait till we get home — will you? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. No I won't. When we get 
 home, you'll sit down with a paper, and if I dare 
 to speak to you, you'll say " huh " and snarl at me, 
 and if I insist on talking you'll go out and leave me 
 all alone. This is a good chance, and I'm going to 
 take advantage of it. 
 
 Beecher. Now, there's no use asking me for 
 money to-night. I haven't any — but I'll give you 
 some to-morrow. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Rises and zvalks centre, dis- 
 gusted) To-morrow never comes. At least, it 
 
46 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 never brings money with it. (Turns back) What 
 did Alden want with you last night ? 
 
 Beecher. Oh a httle business matter. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Approaching Jiiin) Don't you 
 go buying any land through him. ]\Iy Uncle Bob 
 bought a lot from a real estate agent once — and he 
 found it ran up a hill — like this. It was so steep — 
 a house would roll right off it. 
 
 Beecher. I'm not going to buy anything from 
 him. 
 
 ]\Irs. Beecher. Well if you sell him anything be 
 sure you get your money. Now / need money for 
 
 Beecher. Don't talk so loud — they'll hear you. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh I don't care, if they do. 
 
 Beecpier. W^ell I do. Now shut up. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Harvey don't you speak to me 
 like that. {TJicy argue a moment ad lib. Mary 
 comes from the dining room. Mrs. Beecher in- 
 stantly becomes suave and szveet) Oh, dear Mrs. 
 Alden surely you haven't finished your dinner ! 
 
 Mary. (Right) I do hope you're not tired of 
 waiting. 
 
 ]\Irs. Beecher. (Going to her) Oh not at all. 
 Not in the least. Don't let us hurry you through 
 your dinner. 
 
 Beecher. No, don't hurry on our accoimt. 
 W^e're doing nicely. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. I'm afraid I shall have to be 
 jealous. Mr. Beecher likes it so much better here 
 than he does at home. But then I suppose it's quite 
 natural. You have such a dear little place. 
 
 (AIiLDRED comes from dining room.) 
 
 Mildred. Good evening. (Mr. and Mrs. 
 Beecher return her greetings) Awfully glad you 
 came in. I know I don't play as well as Lew does, 
 but I'll take a hand till he comes. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 47 
 
 Mary. Where did you leave the cards ]Mildred? 
 
 Mildred. In the bookcase. (SJie goes in rear 
 room) Will you turn on this light for me, Mr. 
 Beecher. 
 
 Beecher. Certainly. {He goes into rear room, 
 and turns on light over table, centre) 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher follozvs.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {To Mildred) I wish you'd 
 teach me how to get him to do things. He never 
 thinks of helping me. 
 
 (Beecher glozvers at her — uncomfortably.) 
 
 Mary. {Brings cards from bookcase) Here are 
 the cards. {Puts them on table, then she goes up 
 and looks out of hall door) 
 
 (Beecher takes them. Rhoda appears from din- 
 ing room.) 
 
 Rhoda. {To Mary, zvho comes dozvn halhvay — 
 rigiit) I done put JNIr. Alden's dinner in de oven to 
 keep it hot 
 
 Mary. Thank you, Rhoda — that's right. 
 
 Rhoda. {Looking keenly at Mary) What y'all 
 so worried about. Mis' Mary ? 
 
 Mary. I'm not worried — Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. Yo' sho' is. Yo' hands is jes' 
 tremblin' an' yo' ain't got no appetite. Now don't 
 yo' fret. Nothin' ain' gwine to happen to Mr. 
 Alden. He'll be 'long home. 
 
 Mary. Yes, yes, of course. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {At piano. To Mildred) Oh 
 my dear. {Elevator door off) Do you mind if I 
 play this? {Indicates a piece of music) The 
 orchestra played it last night. I think it's lovely. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher plays softly. Beecher sits back 
 of table in rear room. Shuffles cards, and lays 
 out a game of solitaire. Plays. There is a ring 
 at the door. Mary goes to hallway. Rhoda 
 
48 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 quickly goes out in the halhvay and opens door. 
 The voices of Rhoda and Tommy Hazleton 
 are heard, in mutual greeting.) 
 
 Mary. Oh, it's you, Mr. Hazleton — come in. 
 (Tommy Hazleton comes in from the hallway) 
 So glad to see you. 
 
 Tom. Company? 
 
 Mary. Mr. and Mrs. Beecher. 
 
 Tom. Oh. (He looks into rear room) Good 
 evening, everybody. 
 
 (Mr. and Mrs. Beecher greet him pleasantly and 
 Mildred smiles and nods at him.) 
 
 Mary. Did you see anything of Lew downtown ? 
 
 Tom. I saw him this morning — we had a Httle 
 business together. But sit down. (To the others) 
 Excuse me. I've some good news for you. I saw a 
 bully little place over on Long Island to-day. 
 
 (She sits in chair right. He brings down a light 
 chair and sits by her.) 
 
 Mary. Oh — tell me about it. 
 
 Tom. It's a stucco house. Eight rooms, almost 
 new. Two miles from town on a good road. 
 
 Mary. And is there some land ? 
 
 Tom. About twenty acres — and chickens — oh, 
 you never saw such chickens in your life. 
 
 Mary. How many? 
 
 Tom. Well — I should say about — three million. 
 (Both laugh) It's a chicken farm. The owner 
 must sell, quick. His wife is — delicate. They 
 think she'll do better in the Southwest 
 
 Mary. Oh, poor woman. How she must hate to 
 give up her little home. 
 
 Tom. Here's a photograph of the place. (He 
 gives a picture to Mary^ and she studies it 
 
hp:r own money. 49 
 
 dreamily) It's a bargain at eight thousand. 
 Fifteen hundred down and the rest on a six per cent 
 mortgage. 
 
 Mary. Chickens and all? 
 
 Tom. Yes. But you'll have to make up your 
 mind quick. Two or three people have been to see 
 it. 
 
 Mary. I should love to have it. If Lew — were 
 willing. I can't say positively until I've had a talk 
 with him. Oh, I wish — He'll be home soon. 
 
 Tom. If you like I'll take you and Lew out to 
 look at it to-morrow. 
 
 Mary. I hope he can go. I hope I can persuade 
 him. It must be lovely out there now. 
 
 Tom. Prettiest little place you ever saw. 
 
 (Mildred leaves Mrs. Beecher and goes left by 
 
 desk.) 
 
 Mildred. {To Tom) So glad you came in. 
 
 Mary. You mustn't go without seeing Lew. 
 {She joins the Beechers) Can't I get you some- 
 thing. A glass of beer? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Thanks ; it's so warm. 
 
 Mary. It's on the ice, Mr. Beecher? 
 
 Beecher. Not just now, thank you. 
 
 ]\Irs. Beecher. First time I ever knew Harvey 
 to refuse. {She laughs sarcastically and goes out 
 into dining room ivith Mrs. Alden) 
 
 (Tommy stands right and Mildred left. They look 
 up at Beecher in little alcove room playing 
 solitaire, who is unconscious of the fact that 
 they wish to be alone. Tommy signals to 
 Mildred to get Beecher away. She shakes 
 her head in refusal. Tommy zvalks up to the 
 table in the alcove room, picks up a deck of 
 cards and runs his finger over the end loudly. 
 Beecher looks up. He catches Tom's eye. 
 He glances at Mildred. Tommy and Mildred 
 
50 HER OWN AIONKY. 
 
 stand quiie still. Beecher quietly gets up and 
 goes off in the dining room.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Off right) Changed your 
 mind, eh? 
 
 Beecher. (Off right) I will have a glass if you 
 don't mind Mrs. Alden. 
 
 Mary. (Off right) Here's a glass. 
 
 Tom. (Looks at Mildred's hand) Well, I see 
 you got it off. 
 
 Mildred. Yes. My knuckle almost came with 
 it. (Left) 
 
 Tom. I'm going to put a plain gold band on this 
 finger, and you'll never get it off. (He touches her 
 ring finger) 
 
 Mildred. I'm not so sure. Tommy. I haven't 
 made up my mind. I want time to think things 
 over. Oh, such a lot of time. (She moves chair 
 dozvn from desk and sits left) 
 
 Tom. Take all the time you want. I'll come 
 around again to-morrow night — if you say so. (He 
 sits on coiich facing her) 
 
 Mildred. Tommy — what is your idea of mar- 
 riage ? 
 
 Tom. (Smiles) " Two souls Vv^ith but a single 
 thought, two hearts that beat as one." I think that's 
 pretty good for a real estate man. 
 
 Mildred. (Thoughtfully) Is it always like 
 that ? 
 
 Tom. (Tenderly) It would be like that with us, 
 little girl. 
 
 Mildred. (Practically) It isn't like that — with 
 Mr. Beecher. 
 
 Tom. Beecher — oh, no, that's different. 
 
 Mildred. It isn't like that with Mrs. Beecher. 
 
 Tom. But they're always squabbling about 
 money. 
 
 Mildred. That's just it. Money seems to have 
 a lot to do with marriage. 
 
HER OWN ^lONEY. 51 
 
 Tom. Money has quite a lot to do Avith it. But 
 don't let's talk about that — {He takes her hand) 
 
 ?vIiLDRED. Why not? If money is such an im- 
 portant part of marriage, it ought to be talked 
 about. 
 
 Tom. Let me remind you. This is a proposal; 
 not a Director's ^Meeting. 
 
 Mildred. Well — go on — propose some more — I 
 don't mind — but tell me something of the future 
 you have planned — tell me of the life you hope to 
 lead — v/ith your wife 
 
 Tom. I'll try. I'm not rich ; you know that. 
 {She nods) But I've got ambition. I'm willing to 
 work — I know how to save. We can have a nice 
 home — like this — I don't gamble. I take a drink 
 when I v/ant it — but I don't want it too often 
 
 Mildred. {Demurely) I suppose you can bring 
 references from your last employer to prove all 
 these nice things that you say about yourself. 
 {Both laugh) You're a nice boy — or I wouldn't let 
 you sit here — and hold my hand. You're a sensible 
 boy. You show it by saying you like me. {Both 
 laugh) But leaving out your alluring description 
 of your personal attractions : what is your ideal of 
 married life? 
 
 Tom. I think it's a man's job to get something 
 worth while to do — do it the best he can — and try to 
 deserve a good woman. It's up to him to see that 
 his wife gets all the good out of life that he can give 
 her. I think the woman's v/ork is to make a home — 
 and keep a home. 
 
 Mildred. Men usually tliink that way — don't 
 they ? 
 
 Tom. I suppose they do. It's the right way, 
 
 Mildred. It's tlie usual way. 
 
 Tom. I suppose it isn't a perfect scheme, but it's 
 the best we know. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Ojf) Harvey, are you going 
 to have another bottle? 
 
52 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Beecher. Yes, I'm going to have another bottle. 
 
 Mildred. (Glancing at the Beechers) But, 
 Tommy, it doesn't work. 
 
 Tom. Sometimes it doesn't work. Of course if 
 a fellow is a simp, and his wife's a nut — nothing 
 would work. 
 
 Mildred. It seems so unfair to the woman. She 
 must be content with what her husband is willing to 
 give her. 
 
 Tom. a man who loves a woman will give her 
 all he can. 
 
 Mildred. {Lightly) Yes. But people ahvays 
 start, loving each other. I suppose those two did. 
 I suppose he was good to her once. (Nods at the 
 Beechers) But nozv: if he gives her five cents, to 
 buy an ice cream cone, she's lucky. 
 
 Tom. The other extreme is just as bad. I know 
 a two-by-four manakin that turns in his salary every 
 Saturday night to a loving helpmiate. She gives him 
 lunch in a basket and allows him ten cents a day for 
 carfare — when he takes a glass of beer he has to 
 walk to Harlem — 147th Street 
 
 Mildred. I don't mean to take extremes. Just 
 ordinary married people. They do have so much 
 trouble about money. 
 
 Tom. Not real people. But here's Lew Alden, 
 and your sister 
 
 Mildred. (She turns azvay. Rather grave) 
 Yes. My sister, and her husband 
 
 Tom. See how well they get on. They love each 
 other. They've been married for years. They've 
 made it work, IMildred. 
 
 Mildred. Have they? 
 
 Tom. You live here with them. You ought to 
 know. Why Lew Alden is one of the happiest men 
 alive. (Curiously) What's the matter, Mildred? 
 What's gone wrong? Last night you were on the 
 point of saying — yes — but now 
 
 Mildred, Now — I'm — afraid. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 53 
 
 Tom. (Sadly) I'm afraid, too — Mildred — 
 afraid you don't care for me — (He rises and turns 
 tip stage) 
 
 Mildred. Oh, but I do — (He eagerly turns back 
 — moving the chair zvhich is in his zvay — back to the 
 desk) Now I didn't mean to say that. (She evades 
 his demonstrations) Don't. They'll see you. 
 
 Tommy. (Going centre) Why don't they have 
 doors in these flats? 
 
 Mildred. Tommy — if two business men were 
 going into partnership — for five years, they would 
 have a clear agreement. (She is centre with him) 
 
 Tom. You've been driving at something all even- 
 ing and — (He taps his forehead) Solid ivory — 
 don't understand. Don't beat about the bush — tell 
 me plainly — what — is it ? 
 
 Mildred. Tommy — married people have trouble 
 about money, all married people. No matter how 
 much two people think of each other, I don't think 
 it's wise for them to marry until they've agreed on 
 some way to share their income, so the wife will not 
 learn to hate marriage ; because she is dependent. 
 
 Tom. That sounds to me just a little bit — mer- 
 cenary. 
 
 Mildred. (Hurt) Oh. I'm sorry. (She walks 
 away from him toward left) 
 
 Tom. (Follozvs her) Don't be angry — I didn't 
 mean to hurt you 
 
 Mildred. Mercenary ? It's a thing that's got to 
 be settled sometime — why not settle it — before it 
 causes pain and bitterness. 
 
 Tom. (Moodily) I'm sorry you don't trust me. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher comes from the room at back and 
 joins Mildred.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (To Tom) Will you excuse me 
 a moment, Mr. Hazleton. (He goes up left. To 
 Mildred) Oh, my dear, I'm so sorry that I wasn't 
 
54 HKR OWN MONEY. 
 
 able to give you that three dollars, this morning, as 
 I promised. 
 
 Mildred. Oh — any time. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. But, you see, I couldn't get a 
 cent out of Harvey because he was determined to 
 play a sure thing to-day — and of course he lost. I 
 took his spring overcoat down to the pawnshop, but 
 the man wouldn't let me have three dollars on it. 
 
 ]\IiLDRED. Oh, it doesn't matter. 
 
 (Mary comes from Ike dining room and joins them. 
 Beecher also comes in and goes to card-table.) 
 
 Mary. Mildred will you play until Lew comes ? 
 
 Mildred. Yes. {She goes into alcove room) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {To Mary) Oh, Mrs. Alden, 
 if my husband asks you what you pay your butcher 
 for sirloin steak, will you tell him thirty-five cents 
 a pound? {Both are zvcll dozvn) 
 
 Mary. But I only pay thirty-two. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes, I know ; that's what I pay, 
 really ; but you see my butcher is very obliging and 
 puts thirty-five on the bill and he always charges for 
 a little more than I have, then after Harvey has 
 paid the bill at the end of the month, I go see the 
 butcher and he always makes it right. 
 
 Mary. That's very nice of him. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Now for Heaven's sake don't 
 forget it because Harvey is always prying into 
 things. Isn't it dreadful, how suspicious these hus- 
 bands are ; and if he should ask you how much you 
 have for your family, tell him four pounds — he'll 
 never know the difference and he'll believe you. 
 You've no idea what an awful difficulty I'm in. I 
 owe my dressmaker over a hundred dollars and I 
 haven't an idea where I'm going to get the money to 
 pay her. 
 
 IMary. {Steadily) If I were you, Mrs. Beecher, 
 I would sell some jewelry. For instance — your 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 55 
 
 solitaire. (She points to ring on Mrs. Beecher's 
 finger) 
 
 Mrs. Beechee. Oh, my clear, I have sold it. 
 That's paste. {Elevator door off) I let it go over 
 a year ago, and I'm so afraid that Harvey will find 
 it out. 
 
 {The outer halkvay door opens and Alden comes 
 in quickly.) 
 
 Alden. {As he comes doivn the hall) Did you 
 think I was never coming? Sorry I'm so late. 
 
 Mary. Oh, I'm so glad you're home. (Alden 
 comes into room and she goes to him eagerly) Is — 
 everything — all right — tell me — tell me. 
 
 Alden. {Looks at her in zvonder) Why, of 
 course — everything's all right. {He gently puts 
 Mary from him, nods to Mildred, then speaks to 
 Mrs. Beecher) I am sorry to hold up the game. I 
 hope you and Mr. Beecher haven't grown tired of 
 waiting. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, not at all. Beecher has 
 been playing solitaire. He loves solitaire. That's' 
 all he plays at home. 
 
 Alden. Hello, Beecher. Hello, Tommy. 
 
 Beecher. Hullo. {Goes on zvith his game) 
 
 Tom. I'll bet you've been in the subway. You 
 look it. 
 
 (Mary, zvho has been standing still, reels slightly 
 and puts out a hand in a groping way.) 
 
 Mh.dred. {Sees this) Mary. What's the mat- 
 ter? {Goes to her) It's the heat. 
 
 (Mary sits in chair right. Mrs. Beecher stands 
 right of chair, Mildred is back of her and Lew 
 on tJie left.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Poor dear. She's been worry- 
 
S6 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 ing. I know just how she feels. {With a glance 
 at Beecher) 
 
 Alden. Why, I'm often late 
 
 Mildred. Ihere are so many accidents — {She 
 goes into dining room) 
 
 Beecher. Give her air. {Pulls curtains from 
 window) 
 
 Mary. There's nothing the matter. {Trying to 
 pull herself together) Really. {With a slight 
 touch of hysteria) Ha, ha. {She zvipes her eyes) 
 So silly of me. Please don't pay any attention. 
 
 (Mildred conies back with zvater.) 
 
 Mildred. She's been worrying about some busi- 
 ness affair 
 
 Alden. {To Mary) Well, if it's going to affect 
 you this way — I'll never tell you another word, 
 about business. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. That's just what Mr. Beecher 
 says. 
 
 Mildred. You're all upset, dear. Why don't 
 you go in your room — and lie down ? 
 
 Mary. Oh, no. {Gains control of herself) 1 
 am all right now. {To the others) I suppose you 
 think I'm awfully foolish 
 
 Mrs. Beeclier. Oh, no — perfectly natural. You 
 really ought to lie down and rest a little w^hile. 
 (Mary starts to protest) If only a few moments. 
 Come along — do, and I'll fan you — {Taking her) 
 
 Mary. {To Lew) But everything is all right 
 now? 
 
 Alden. Of course. Things have gone — 
 splendidly. Everything is all right. 
 
 (Mary goes out relieved zvith Mrs. Beecher.) 
 
 Mildred. Have you had your dinner — Lew ? 
 Alden. I've been too busv to eat. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 57 
 
 Mildred. (Calling right) Rhoda. (Rhoda 
 appears, right) Mr. Alden has come home. Will 
 you please give him his dinner. 
 
 RiiODA. Yassum. But de chicken is dry as a 
 bone an' de ice cream all got soft. {Slie goes out) 
 
 Mildred. {To three men) Excuse me. (Fol- 
 lows Rhoda out) 
 
 Beecher. (Coming down) Poor little woman. 
 That's what she's been worrying about. I knew 
 something was the matter, but I didn't know what 
 it was. 
 
 Alden. (Crosses to centre) Well, she needn't 
 worry. I swung the whole deal. Put it through 
 clear and clean. Thanks to you fellows. I couldn't 
 have made it without your help. 
 
 Beecher. (Right of Lew) (Looking uneasily 
 after his zcife) Not so loud 
 
 Tom. (Left of Lew) So you bought the 
 factory site all right, eh? 
 
 Alden. Bought it, yes — this morning — and sold 
 it, this afternoon. 
 
 Tom. Hooray. Tell me about it 
 
 Alden. As soon as I cleaned up on the purchase, 
 I telephoned the Power Company. Made a quick 
 deal — cleared four thousand dollars. Tommy, 
 you're a brick; Beecher, I can never thank you 
 enough. 
 
 Beecher. (Looking off right uneasily) S-s-sh. 
 This is between ourselves. 
 
 Tom. Are you in on this, too? 
 
 Alden. In ? He let me have two thousand dol- 
 lars last night. (Tommy stares — incredulously) 
 Now I want to show you chaps how grateful I am. 
 Tommy, here's your check for the eight hundred you 
 loaned me. (Gives him a check) 
 
 Tom. Hold on. Lew, this is for a thousand. 
 
 Alden. Your end of the profit. (Tommy starts 
 to protest) Now, shut up; take it. (Gives 
 Beecher check) And here's your loan to me. 
 
58 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Beecher. (Fiiinbling for note in his pocket) 
 Twenty-five hundred. (Embarrassed) Oh, no — 
 reall)' — I can't take this, old man. 
 
 Alden. Of course you can. You must. Now 
 I insist. It's coming to you. You don't know what 
 a friend you've been to me, Beecher ; I'm awfully 
 grateful. 
 
 (He puts the check in Beecher's hand and takes 
 his note from Beecher. At the same time 
 Mrs. Beecher comes from right.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Mrs. Alden is better now. 
 
 (Beecher quickly pockets the check. She notes 
 
 this.) 
 
 Mildred. (Appears right) Come to your din- 
 ner. Lew. 
 
 Alden. (To Mr. and Mrs. Beecher) You'll 
 excuse me a little while — won't you — I haven't had 
 a bite since breakfast 
 
 Beecher. Certainly ; go on, and eat your dinner. 
 
 (Alden goes out right. Tommy goes right follow- 
 ing Lew and stops by Mildred. Beecher un- 
 easily goes up into alcove room. Mrs. Beecher 
 follows him — determined. ) 
 
 Tom. (Aside to Mildred) Put on your hat and 
 we'll go over and stroll on Riverside Drive. 
 
 Mildred. (To Tom. Indicates the Beechers) 
 I can't leave company. 
 
 Tom. (To the Beechers) Miss Carr — and I 
 have an engagement ; do you mind if we run along? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Why, of course not — though 
 we're sorry to lose you. 
 
 Mildred. We're late now. Sure you won't mind 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 59 
 
 Beecher. Not at all. 
 
 (Mr. and Mrs. Beecher have ad lib. zvith Tom and 
 Mildred ajid insist that they go.) 
 
 Mildred. So sorry to run away — like this. Good 
 night. 
 
 Tom. Good night. 
 
 Mr. & Mrs. Beecher. Good night. 
 
 (Tom and Mildred go out, outer hall) 
 
 Beecher. (Looking after them) I suppose 
 she's going to marry him. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes. Poor girl. (Beecher 
 glares at her angrily) Oh, by the way, are you 
 mixed up in some kind of a deal with Alden? 
 
 Beecher. No. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Then why was he shaking hands 
 with 3^ou so gratefully, and telling you how much 
 he thinks of you ? 
 
 Beecher. (Trying to appear unconcerned) Oh, 
 I gave him a little information. 
 
 Mrs. Beecpier. You gave it to him. No wonder 
 we're poor — Didn't he make it worth your while ? 
 
 Beecher. (Left centre) Oh, it wasn't — worth 
 much. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Right centre) He gave you a 
 check. 
 
 Beecher. No, he didn't. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Yes, he did. I saw him. 
 
 Beecher. (Sourly) Well, what of it? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Well, why didn't you say so in 
 the first place ? Why did you hide it from me ? 
 
 Beecher. (Suppressed anger) For the simple 
 reason that it wasn't any of your business. (He 
 goes left) This is entirely between Alden and my- 
 self — I've a right to keep my business to myself. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Then what did you marry me 
 for — You keep your affairs to yourself, tight 
 
6o HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 enough ; and you keep all the money to your- 
 self. 
 
 Beecher. (Uneasily) Dry up ; they'll hear you. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Of course you don't want any- 
 one to know how you mistreat me — but you've got 
 to listen. You can't howl at me here — and shut me 
 up — or threaten me as you do at home — and I'm 
 going to speak my mind. You've got money — in 
 your pocket — and I want some. 
 
 Beecher. There's not enough to satisfy you— 
 it's a little check. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. How much is it? Let me see. 
 (Tries to get check) 
 
 Beecher. No, I'm damned — if I do. (Pushes 
 her hands aside) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Harvey, don't you swear at me. 
 We're not at home ; and I won't stand it. Now I 
 want some of that money. 
 
 Beecher. (Left) Now for once in your life 
 be sensible. I'm telling you the truth. I can't give 
 you any of this money — it's a loan. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, you borrozved it — from him. 
 
 Beecher. No ; last night I borrowed it — for him 
 — and he just paid me back. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. W^ell, if you can borrow money 
 to give a strange man, you can borrow some for me 
 — What right have you to borrow money — to lend 
 him? 
 
 Beecher. Oh, it's — it's a business deal. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (She throzvs herself angrily to 
 a seat on the conch) Another long shot, I suppose. 
 (Scornfully) A business deal. Can't you tell a 
 better lie than that? Borrowed money? Yon. 
 Why your credit is nearly as bad as mine and I'm 
 ashamed to look the grocer in the face — Who did 
 you borrow it from ? 
 
 Beecher. That is none of your business. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Of course not. I'm only your 
 wife. (Sniffles) You stingy thing. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 6i 
 
 Beecher. For God's sake, now, don't make a 
 scene. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. It's all your fault — If you'd 
 only treat me with a little consideration 
 
 Beecher. Stop it, I tell you. They'll think I've 
 been abusing you. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (Tearful and angry) You have 
 — and I won't stand it. Do you hear. I'm going 
 home. (She goes up, he follows, she turns on him) 
 You can stay, and play cards with your friends — 
 the Aldens, if you like. I don't care what you do — 
 (Going) See if you can find some kind of a lie 
 to tell them about me when I'm gone. 
 
 (She angrily goes into hall — then the outer door 
 slams. Beecher stands looking after her un- 
 decided and uncomfortable. Mary comes in 
 from right.) 
 
 Beecher. I hope you're feeling better. 
 
 Mary. Oh, I'm quite all right, now. (She looks 
 about) Where's Mrs. Beecher? 
 
 Beecher. Mrs. Beecher — thought — that we had 
 better not play cards to-night — and she's gone home. 
 
 Mary. Oh, I'm so sorry. (She sits in arm- 
 chair, right) 
 
 Beecher. Yes, she was quite concerned about 
 you — and she said she thought you would feel bet- 
 ter if you were quiet — she asked me to make our ex- 
 cuses, and say we'll come over — some other even- 
 ing. 
 
 Mary. Oh, I'm so sorry I've spoiled your even- 
 ing. 
 
 Beecher. Oh, don't mention it — not at all — 
 We'll just have — a quiet evening at home — that is, I 
 may go out — but I hope you'll soon feel yourself — 
 And by the way. (He lozvers his voice) Things 
 have turned out splendidly. Mr. Alden not only 
 saved his investment but his deal went through to- 
 day 
 
62 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. {Overjoyed) Oh!!! I am so glad — and 
 I am so grateful to you. 
 
 Beecher. There's the check. {He endorses it 
 and offers it to her) 
 
 Mary. Oh, no. I can't take it — he would see 
 my endorsement on the check when the bank re- 
 turns it to him. Then he would know — don't you 
 see? 
 
 Beecher. Yes. That's so. 
 
 Mary. Deposit this check to your credit and 
 give me your check. 
 
 Beecher. I quite understand. {He replaces the 
 check in his pocket, sits at her desk — scribbles his 
 own check) 
 
 Mary. {Looking over his shoulder) But this is 
 for two thousand, five-hundred dollars. 
 
 Beecher. Yes. He insisted on giving me some 
 of the profit because I helped him out, and I 
 couldn't refuse. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher appears in her window across the 
 court; she zvatches. Beecher gives Mrs. 
 Alden check.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Harvey ! Harvey Beecher ! 
 What are you doing ? I saw you ! What are you 
 giving that woman money for ? I saw you ! 
 
 Mary. Oh ! {She looks and moves uneasily to- 
 ward the right) 
 
 Beecher. {Very angrily looks thro' zvindow) 
 Shut up — will you? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Across the court) No; I won't 
 shut up. (Beecher ^notions her to be still) No; I 
 won't be still — 
 
 (Beeecher angrily slams the zvindozv dozvn. At 
 the same time Alden comes in, from right, 
 surprised and astonished.) 
 
 Alden. W^hat is it? What's the matter? 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 63 
 
 ^jr>' 
 
 Mary. Oh, nothing. Nothing 
 
 Beecher. (Very uneasily) Mrs. Beecher isn't 
 feehng well. She felt compelled to go home. If 
 you'll excuse me — I will also say good night. 
 
 Alden. But won't you stay and have a game of 
 
 Beecher. (Very uneasily) Oh, no. Not now. 
 7\nother time. So sorry. Good night. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher in raging fury, opens the hall door 
 and rushes into the room. All look at her sur- 
 prised. ]\Iary and Beecher are discomfited.) 
 
 Mary. Why did you give that woman money? 
 (She points to Mary) 
 
 Beecher. (Very sternly) See here; I've had 
 enough of this. Come home, and if there's any- 
 thing you want to know I'll tell you there. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. No; you'll tell me here. I'm 
 not afraid of you, Harvey Beecher ! I want to know 
 what's going on between you and Mrs. Alden. 
 
 Alden. (Sternly) Why, what could go on be- 
 tween ]Mr. Beecher and Mrs. Alden ? 
 
 (Alden right. Mrs. Beecher up right centre. 
 Beecher centre. Mary left.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. That's what I want to find out. 
 I've been begging him for money. Begging ! You 
 understand? And he has none to give me. But 
 he wrote a check for her. I saw him from the win- 
 dow. I want to know why he wrote that check. 
 I want to know why he gives her money! 
 
 Beecher. That isn't true. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. It is true. 
 
 Beecher. Nothing of the kind. (To Alden) I 
 was explaining to Mrs. Alden why Mrs. Beecher 
 went home — I was apologizing. Then we spoke of 
 your business deal. I was trying to reassure her. 
 
64 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 She has been greatly \yorried about it. So I showed 
 her the check you gave me. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, yes — but you wouldn't show 
 it to me. 
 
 Beecher. Then it just occurred to me — I would 
 endorse it — and I sat down at the desk by the win- 
 dow — and endorsed it. (Pulls check from pocket) 
 Here it is. (Holds it out to x\lden. Mrs. Beecher 
 tries to snatch it, but he quickly puts it in his 
 pocket) I'm going to mail it to my bank to-night. 
 Mrs. Beecher saw IMrs. Alden and me through the 
 window — and misconstrued the whole matter — very 
 foolishly made a scene — I'm d — d sorry old man 
 
 Mary. Don't you see, Lew — that was the way of 
 it. {Humiliated) You understand now — don't 
 you, Mrs. Beecher. 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher sneers) 
 
 Alden. (Going to Mary) Then Mr. Beecher 
 wasn't giving you money ? 
 
 Mary. Lew — why — should Mr. Beecher give me 
 money ? 
 
 Beecher. Yes. Why should I give Mrs. Alden 
 money ? 
 
 Alden. And it's all a ridiculous mistake? 
 
 Mary. Of course. (She goes to him, and he 
 slips an arm about her) 
 
 Beecher. What else could it be? (He tries to 
 laugh uneasily) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Do you believe that idiotic 
 story ? 
 
 Alden. I believe what my wife tells me. 
 
 Beecher. Now apologize — go on — square your- 
 self. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Apologize — Never. Not till this 
 matter is explained to me. 
 
 Mary. Mrs. Beecher, the only thing to be said 
 is — -good night. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 65 
 
 Beecher. Certainly. Come on, let's go home. 
 {Trying to urge her) When you're willing to listen 
 to reason, I'll explain the whole thing. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {To Beecher) No. {She 
 sits) I'm not going home. (To Mary) You can't 
 get rid of me so easily. 
 
 Alden. {Sternly) Good night, Mrs. Beecher 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, you can let them pull the 
 wool over your eyes if you like. They're both 
 lying — I'll proz'e it to you nozv. My husband wrote 
 a check for Mrs. Alden. (I saw him tear it out of 
 his check-book.) He gave it to her. She tucked it 
 in the bosom of her dress. (Mary unconsciously 
 puts her hands on the bosom of her dress. As Lew 
 looks at her, her hands move away) She's got it 
 there now. Ask Beecher to show you his check 
 book. He always puts down every check he draws. 
 I've looked at his book when he's asleep 
 
 Mary. ^ Lew, don't pay any attention — the wo- 
 man is — is mad. 
 
 Alden. Now, Beecher, we can clear up the 
 Avhole thing. Show me your check-book and Mrs. 
 Beecher will be satisfied. 
 
 Beecher. {Frankly) I haven't my check-book 
 with me, Alden 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher has slipped up close to him and 
 suddenly plunges her hand in his pocket and 
 drags out check-book.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, hasn't he? (Beecher 
 takes it from her. He puts it in his pocket) Oh, 
 you brute — you hurt my hand. {To Alden) 
 There's the check-book. {To Beecher) Show it 
 to him — I dare you — go on. 
 
 Alden. Do you care to show it to me, Beecher? 
 
 Beecher. Isn't my assurance — my word good 
 enough for you. Why it's like searching a man's 
 pockets. 
 
66 HER OWN I\1()N]^Y. 
 
 I\Irs. Beecher. Don't you see — he's afraid 
 
 Alden. Mary — did Mr. Beecher give you a 
 check? {Left centre) 
 
 jN'Iary. Yes. (Mary standing with her back to 
 the audience) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. There. You see? They've been 
 Iyi}ig — nozv we'll get the truth. 
 
 Alden. He gave you a check? 
 
 Mary. Yes. 
 
 Alden. What for? 
 
 Mary. I can't tell you. 
 
 Alden. You must. 
 
 Mary. (Doggedly) I can't tell you. 
 
 Alden. Give it to nie 
 
 Mary. No. 
 
 Alden. You won't give it to me ? 
 
 Mary. No. 
 
 Alden. You v/on't let me see it? 
 
 Mary. You must trust me. 
 
 Alden. Trust you — my God — And you — and he 
 — have lied and lied — and lied. W^hat does it mean 
 — why are you ashamed — or afraid — to tell me — 
 why Beecher gave you money ? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. {Viciously) I always had my 
 suspicions it was somebody. I didn't know it was 
 you. {She moves np stage restlessly.) 
 
 Mary. Oh — you — wretched — creature — you 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher is about to retort — Beecher checks 
 
 her.) 
 
 Beecher. For God's sake keep quiet — You've 
 made trouble 
 
 Alden. Beecher. W^ill you tell me why you 
 gave my wife money? 
 
 Beecher. Yes. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Now, we'll have more lies. 
 
 Beecher. You insisted on my taking that profit 
 — I don't want it. Don't think I was entitled to it — 
 I just — gave it to her 
 
HER OWN IMONEY. (yj 
 
 Alden. You gave five hundred dollars — to my 
 wife? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Eive hundred dollars to her: 
 and I'm in debt. 
 
 Beecher. (Laiuely) Later she meant to give it 
 to you — (To Lew) 
 
 Mary. {Wcepiurj — ashamed) Oh, Lew, this is 
 dreadful — it's horrible — nothing like this has ever 
 happened in our lives. Send this woman away — 
 let's just you and I talk it over. I can explain all 
 to you — really, Lew — everything 
 
 Alden. No — by God — here and now. There's 
 been too much lying and evasion. I want the truth 
 now — do you understand — the truth, from both of 
 you — and I'm going to have it — or 
 
 Mary. (Seated on end of couch) You shall 
 have the truth, then. All this is my fault. Don't 
 blame Mr. Beecher. He's been trying to help me. 
 And trying to help you. Lie gave me a check — it 
 was due me. It was for a loan. 
 
 Alden. A loan. Yoii loaned Beecher money? 
 
 Mary. Yes. Yes. 
 
 Alden. When? 
 
 ]\Iary. Last night. 
 
 Alden. Why didn't you tell me? 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. (To Beecher) And why didn't 
 you tell inef 
 
 Mary. It was a private matter between Mr. 
 Beecher and myself. 
 
 I\Irs. Beecher. Oh, icas it. (SJie goes across to 
 right centre leaving Beecher right) I won't have 
 my husband having secrets with other women about 
 money — You could loan him money, but when I 
 asked you for three dollars to pay the plumber 
 
 Beecher. So it was three dollars 
 
 (Mrs. Beecher goes up disconcerted.) 
 
 Alden. How much did you lend Mr. Beecher ? 
 Mary. Not much — all I had. 
 
68 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Alden. Was this before I came home? 
 
 Maey. No. 
 
 Alden. After? 
 
 Mary. Yes. 
 
 Alden. Why didn't you ask me, Beecher ? 
 
 Beecher. Mrs. Alden will tell you. 
 
 Alden. (Fiercely) Yoit tell me 
 
 Mary. No. riftell you 
 
 Alden. (Puts her aside and confronts Beecher) 
 No. Last night you borrowed money from my wife 
 — you both kept it a secret — then you turn around — 
 and lend two thousand dollars to me. 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Two thousand dollars — When 
 did you get two thousand dollars? 
 
 Alden. Don't you see how idiotic that sounds. 
 Don't you see how it looks. 
 
 Mary. But it's true, Lew. It's true. You must 
 believe me. 
 
 Beecher. This is rotten. I've had enough. (He 
 goes up to right centre by hallway arch) 
 
 Alden. Hold on Beecher. You can't go yet — 
 (Follow him) 
 
 Beecher. (Angrily — turns) See here, Alden — 
 you. can't keep me if I don't want to stay 
 
 Alden. I'll try. (Faces Beecher in a threaten- 
 ing manner) 
 
 Mary. (Frightened) Oh, no, no, for God's sake 
 — Here's the check he gave me. (Shows Alden 
 check) 
 
 Alden. (Reads check) Two thousand five hun- 
 dred dollars. ( To Mary) What did you lend him ? 
 
 Mary. Two thousand dollars. 
 
 Alden. Why did you loan him two thousand 
 dollars 
 
 Mary. So he could lend it to you. 
 
 Beecher. Don't you see, Alden — it was her 
 money that pulled you through to-day. (To Mrs. 
 Beecher — sarcastically) Come on. (Urging her 
 toivard hallway. They go out) 
 
HER OWN AIONEY. C; 
 
 Alden. {To Mary) Your money? 
 Mary. Mine. 
 
 THE CURTAIN BEGINS TO FALL SLOWLY. 
 
 It was my money that saved you, Lew. {She 
 advances tozvard him, but he looks at her in a cold 
 fury. She continues to try to explain) I meant to 
 tell you — don't you understand — I wanted to help 
 you 
 
 THE CURTAIN FALLS ON THE FIRST 
 SCENE OF THE SECOND ACT. 
 
 SCENE SECOND. 
 
 Scene: — The same apartment an hour later. The 
 curtain rises. Mildred's key is heard in the 
 lock. The door opens. Mildred comes in. 
 Tom stands uncertainly in the hall. 
 
 Mildred. {Formally) Won't you come in? 
 
 Tom. {Dryly) Thanks. {He comes in, closes 
 door, and follozvs Mildred dozvn) 
 
 Mildred. {Formally) Sit down. {She slowly 
 takes off gloves c.) 
 
 Tom. {Sits right, then looks at zvatch) Why 
 come home at nine o'clock ? We can fight just as 
 well in the street. 
 
 Mildred. {Icily) I don't care to '' fight " any- 
 where. {She looks uneasily at back room and dis- 
 covers it is empty) The Beechers must have gone 
 home 
 
 Tom. {Goes to her, centre) See here, little girl; 
 we've been playing at cross purposes all evening. I 
 wish you'd tell me just what you want. 
 
 Mildred. I want you to be reasonable. 
 
 Tom. Reasonable. You mean you want me to 
 say I agree with you— when I don't. 
 
70 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mildred. No, but you won't be serious. You 
 insist on treating me like a child. I've been trying to 
 explain my point of view to you — and you go right 
 on basing everything on your own. 
 
 Tom. I'm doing the best I can to get on a work- 
 ing basis. What do you want to know? I've told 
 you my salary — I've told you how much I've saved — 
 
 Mildred. That isn't it — It wouldn't make a bit 
 of difference to me if you hadn't saved a dollar 
 
 Tom. You don't think you could trust me 
 
 Mildred. Oh, yes, I know I could Tommy, if 
 you'd see things the right way — and say the right 
 thing. 
 
 Tom. All right, what is the right thing? I'll say 
 it 
 
 Mildred. I can't tell you. 
 
 Tom. You can't tell me? Then how do you 
 expect me to know vv^hat to say? 
 
 jMildred. It must come from yourself. You 
 must think of it. 
 
 Tom. Let me get this right. You're not going 
 to marry me until I convince myself that I'm wrong, 
 and say something that I don't seem to be able to 
 think of, now, and you can't tell me. 
 
 Mildred. I'd tell you if I could. I can't. 
 
 Tom. It's perfectly clear. 
 
 Mildred. You will think of it. You must. I 
 know it will come to you because you're fair, and I 
 know you want me to be happy. 
 
 Tom. I'll go home and think it over. 
 
 Mildred. I hope — this hasn't spoiled your even- 
 ing. 
 
 Tom. Oh, no. I'm as happy as a blind man at a 
 moving picture shov/. Good-night. 
 
 Mildred. Good-night. {He goes out. Rhoda 
 dressed for the street, comes from right) Are you 
 going home, now, Rhoda ? 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. Dinner dishes is all cleaned 
 
 tip. _ 
 
lliiR OWN AlONEV. 71 
 
 IMiLDRED. I see. I suppose you've got to hurry 
 along to get supper for Porter, eh? 
 
 Rhoda. No, ma'am. I ain't married no mo'. 
 
 jMildred. What's become of your husband? 
 
 RiiODA. A year ago he done married another lady 
 without tellin' me nothin' about it. I don't want him 
 round no mo'. He never was no good anyhow. 
 Always shootin' craps. I ain't gwine to get married 
 agin — foh a while. 
 
 Mildred. {Looks in hack room) The Beechers 
 must have gone home early. 
 
 Rhoda. {Mysteriously) Yassum — Dey done 
 gone home. 
 
 Mildred. Is anything the matter ? 
 
 Rhoda. Mis' Alden, she's layin' down in her 
 room, an' Mr. Alden, he's walkin' up and down in 
 his room — a cussin'. 
 
 Mildred. {Distressed) I wonder what's wrong? 
 
 Rhoda. I dunno — I couldn't make head er tail 
 of it from de kitchen — Ain't nothin' I kin do before 
 I go — is they ? 
 
 Mildred. No thank you, Rhoda. (Rhoda turns 
 out hall light) Good-night. 
 
 Rhoda. Good-night. (Rhoda goes quietly out. 
 Mary comes from right and is apparently surprised 
 to see Mildred) 
 
 Mary. I thought you and Tommy went for a 
 walk. 
 
 Mildred. We did. We had a scrap. He's gone 
 home. 
 
 {Through the ivindozv comes the voice of Mrs. 
 Beecher. Mary listens distressed and Mil- 
 dred is astonished.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Oh, I know what a perfectly 
 lovely woman Mrs. Alden is. Butter wouldn't melt 
 in her mouth. Just the same — if you ever speak to 
 
72 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 her again — I won't shut up. I don't care if every- 
 body in the house knows what I think of her 
 
 Mildred. (Closing curtain on windozv) Why 
 did she say that — Have you had trouble ? 
 
 Mary. Oh, dreadful — disgraceful. I'm so 
 ashamed — everyone on the court heard it, of course. 
 
 Mildred. Was it about cards? 
 
 Mary. I'll tell you all about it to-morrow. Not 
 now — please. 
 
 Mildred. Oh, Mary, dear, I'm so sorry. Can I 
 do anything? 
 
 Mary. Nothing. 
 
 (Alden opens the door of his den in the halhvay, 
 right, and comes into the room. He is some- 
 what disheveled, but looks determined and 
 stern.) 
 
 Alden. Mary and I have something to talk over 
 Mildred — Run along, there's a good girl. 
 
 Mildred. Of course. (To Mary) Good-night. 
 Good-night, Lew. 
 
 Alden. Good-night. (Mary sits in alcove room. 
 Lew sloivly crosses left) We've got to talk this 
 thing over. I want to know where I stand. Mary — 
 you humiliated me to-night in a way that I can't 
 understand — can never forget. I hardly feel that I 
 can ever forgive it — but I'm going to try. I'm going 
 to find out your reason — for you must have had a 
 reason — you surely didn't do it wantonly 
 
 Mary. No. God knows I didn't mean to hurt 
 you. Lew. You know that. I wouldn't have done it 
 for the world. Never since we've been married — 
 has anything like this happened — it's terrible. It's 
 hurt me — dreadfully. 
 
 {The rancorous voice of Mrs. Beecher floats 
 through the window.) 
 
 Mrs. Beecher. Well, suppose I did lie to you 
 
HER OWN ^>10NEY. 73 
 
 aliout the plumber's bill. Every v/oman lies to her 
 husband. She has to ; your fine Mrs. Alclen lied to 
 her husband 
 
 Alden. That's a nice thing, isn't it? {He goes 
 right centre. Mary quickly goes to zvindow and 
 closes it) Sure to give the neighbors a good opinion 
 of us 
 
 Mary. Don't listen — don't pay any attention. 
 (Mary left. Lew right centre) 
 
 Aeden. It seems you have — two thousand dollars. 
 
 Mary. Yes. 
 
 Aeden. You've had it — for some time. 
 
 Mary. Yes. 
 
 Alden. And you never told me. 
 
 Mary. I never told you. 
 
 Alden. Why ? 
 
 Mary. {Very ill at ease) I always meant to tell 
 }0u — when the time cam.e 
 
 Alden. What time? 
 
 Mary. The time — when vv^e Vv^ere to use it 
 
 Alden. Oh — ivc were to use it 
 
 Mary. It was for us 
 
 Alden. But vou didn't think the time had come, 
 last night ? 
 
 Mary. No — I thought you'd be glad — proud of 
 me, when I finally told you 
 
 Alden. But you see — you didn't tell me — I found 
 it out. 
 
 Mary. Because I helped you. Remember that — 
 you're out of your difficulty 
 
 Alden. You're not asking me to be grateful for 
 that, are you? I'd rather have borrowed from any 
 stranger. I'd rather have lost the money at stake — 
 than to have had you do the rotten thing you did. 
 
 Mary. Lew — that's cruel — that's unjust. 
 
 Alden. Cruel? Why you huniiliated me — be- 
 fore Beecher and his wife. You lielped me, yes — • 
 and you did it in such a way that my only feeling is 
 shame. 
 
74 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. No. You're wrong. (Kneeling on conch 
 facing him — hands on table) Mr. Beecher under- 
 stands. I explained it to him. 
 
 Alden. Of course. {He sits facing her) Now 
 I want you to explain it to me. You and Beecher 
 conspired. 
 
 Mary. No, no. He only did — what I asked him. 
 
 Alden. Then this brilliant idea was all your own. 
 I needed money. You had it. You didn't loan it to 
 me. You loaned it to Beecher. He loaned it to me. 
 God, what a fool he must have thought me, when I 
 v/as thanking him — Well, why did you do it? Why 
 didn't you loan the money to met 
 
 Mary. Oh, I know now — that is what I should 
 have done. 
 
 y\LDEN. You must have had some kind of a 
 reason. What was it ? — What was your reason ? 
 
 Mary. I thought you might feel more content to 
 make a business arrangement with — another busi- 
 ness man — I thought for me to loan it, might hurt 
 your pride 
 
 Alden. Is that what you told Beecher? 
 
 Mary. Yes — I told him that I had been opposed 
 to this particular deal 
 
 Alden. But you didn't know anything about it — 
 Why should you lie to him ? 
 
 Mary. (Rising) Lie — Oh, Lew 
 
 Alden. It wasn't the truth — was it? 
 
 Mary. (After a pause) No. (Turning azvay) 
 
 Alden. Then, what was it? (He zvaits. She 
 does not anszver) For some reason — you deceived 
 Beecher — for the same reason that you hid the thing 
 from me. So you didn't want to hurt my pride? 
 (Scornfully) My pride — you thought I wouldn't 
 care if the Beechers knew I was short of money — 
 and had made a fool deal I couldn't swing. You 
 didn't think that would hurt my pride. 
 
 Mary. No, I didn't think — I admit it was 
 thoughtless — (In chair left) 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 75 
 
 Alden. (Firmly) Mary, that isn't your reason. 
 It doesn't sound straight. You know it — You know 
 I won't stop until I find out. (He approaches her 
 and. stands before her) So tell me — What — zvas — 
 your — reason? Were you afraid I'd take the money 
 from you? Were you afraid you wouldn't get it 
 back ? 
 
 Mary. (Looking up slozdy. Faintly) Yes. 
 
 Alden. What ? 
 
 Mary. (Desperately) That's just it, Lew — I 
 was afraid I wouldn't get it back. 
 
 xA.LDEN. That sounds like the truth at last. 
 
 Mary. It is the truth — Oh, Lew, don't let it hurt 
 you. 
 
 Alden. Hurt? (Walks azvay — up left, humil- 
 iated) It would take a good deal to hurt me nozv — 
 Were you afraid I \yould lose it? 
 
 Mary. So afraid — I tliought it might be involved 
 in a business deal — and left — tied up — in your busi- 
 ness — but I knew if you borrowed money from Mr. 
 Beecher — you v/ould be sure to — repay it 
 
 Alden. No quicker than I would have repaid 
 you. (He reaches chair from desk and sits facing 
 her) Have I ever taken money of yours — and re- 
 fused to give it back — Have I ? 
 
 Mary. Not refused — neglected. 
 
 Alden. Neglected — what do you mean? 
 
 Mary. I — I didn't mean to remind you of it — I 
 wouldn't have spoken of it — but you made me, Lew 
 — you made me. 
 
 Alden. (In cold rage) So that's what you're 
 thinking of — that live hundred dollars you let me 
 have — years ago. 
 
 Mary. Years a.^o 
 
 Alden. But I've explained that to you twenty 
 times — I never refused to pay you back — I've al- 
 ways regarded it as a loan, I always intended to pay 
 — when convenient. 
 
 Mary. Yes — but it never was convenient. I 
 
7< 
 
 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 know you always meant to but you've never done 
 it 
 
 Alden. I always paid you the interest — just as I 
 would have paid any business man — I was scrup- 
 ulous — about it — but you know how my business 
 is — I always need all the ready money I can get. 
 You never asked me for it. 
 
 Mary. And if the two thousand had been 
 swallowed up in your business I should always have 
 hesitated to ask for that. 
 
 Alden. I see. {He rises) Well, you've ex- 
 plained. You don't trust me — but you trust Beecher 
 — you thought I'd take your money 
 
 Mary. Not take it — lose it 
 
 Alden. Well, suppose I had lost it. 
 
 Mary. That's what I couldn't bear to face. 
 
 Alden. But wouldn't you rather have lost it 
 than have this rotten thing happen ? 
 
 Mary. (Greatly agitated) But, Lew, you don't 
 understand — you don't realize — this money means 
 so much to me. 
 
 Alden. It must. Vv'here did you get it? (Lean- 
 ing over table) 
 
 Mary. Saved it 
 
 Alden. Saved it? 
 
 Mary. Out of what you gave me- 
 
 Alden. Then you didn't v/ork for it — didn't earn 
 it 
 
 Mary. (Excited and distressed) Yes — I earned 
 it. By the hardest Vv^ork a woman has to do — and 
 the worst paid — I watched the pennies — I haggled 
 with tradesmen, I denied myself — I did without — 
 (you will never appreciate the economies I practised 
 — only a woman v/ould understand) — it took me 
 years — (She goes up) 
 
 Alden. But why scrape as if I stinted you — I 
 didn't ask it. I've always given you everything in 
 reason — if I should die — I carry a heavy life in- 
 surance — (He goes right centre) 
 
HER OWN MONEY. *]^ 
 
 Mary. {She comes to him) Oh, I had a reason. 
 That's what I'm trying to explam. I have always 
 wanted to Hve in the country. I've always wanted 
 to own a home — our home — for you and me — It 
 seemed that your work demanded — all your effort — 
 and all your money so I thought — if I could save 
 enough to start — I might persuade you to live out 
 of town, if you thought it would make me happy — 
 and to-day Tommy Hazelton found a place — Here 
 is the picture. {Shows him photograph) ^ I meant 
 to surprise you to-night — I meant to talk it all over 
 with you — and tell you I had the money — I thought 
 you'd be so glad — so proud of me — fifteen hundred 
 down — This evening I wrote a letter (She sh.ozvs 
 him a letter in a light blue envelope) to Tommy 
 Hazleton, telling him we would see the place and — 
 very likely — take it. I felt so sure you would — Read 
 the letter I wrote to Tommy. Don't you see. It 
 
 was all for us — and I meant to tell you to-night 
 
 Alden. (Impatiently) I understand — never 
 
 mind 
 
 Mary. Don't you believe me? 
 Alden. I don't care. (He drops letter on table) 
 It doesn't make any difference — I know where I 
 stand. What I hate, about this, is your secrecy, 
 your lack of trust in me. It was low — dishonorable. 
 (Mary becomes angry) And it has made me 
 
 suffer 
 
 Mary. (Angrily) You, you, you, always you; 
 you think of yourself. Your suffering, your humil- 
 iation — mine has been worse. Think of what I 
 endured from Mrs. Beecher. All that you bear, I 
 bear too and I feel that I brought it about through 
 
 my thoughtlessness 
 
 Alden. (Furiously) Thoughtlessness? Sneaky 
 
 selfishness 
 
 Mary. (More angrily) You shan't speak to me 
 like that — I don't care what I've done I won't stand 
 it. I've explained — and I've told you the truth — 
 
78 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 I've tried to give my reasons — but your pride has 
 been hurt — your vanity Avounded — It doesn't make 
 any difference to you that I am just torn to pieces 
 about this — you can only see your side of it 
 
 Alden. You haven't thought of anything but 
 your money 
 
 Mary. I tell you I was afraid you'd sink it in 
 your business — ^your business — your business. 
 
 Alden. You seem to have a grudge against my 
 business — it has meant as much to you as it has to 
 me. If it wasn't for my business — and me — where 
 would you be ? 
 
 Mary. Mailing my own living I suppose. 
 
 Alden. You wouldn't find it easy. 
 
 Mary. I did it once 
 
 Alden. You couldn't do it now. 
 
 Mary. I could — Do you want me to make my 
 living again ? 
 
 Alden. I'll see that you're taken care of. (She 
 looks at him curiously) You got your money back 
 — and tlie five hundred — ^back too — every cent of it. 
 That's just like a woman to throw that up to me. 
 
 Mary. Just like a man to keep it. 
 
 Alden. You've written to Tommy Hazleton you 
 say about the place. (He carelessly handles letter) 
 
 Mary. It was only to be if you wanted to — if 
 you were willing 
 
 Alden. I suppose that can be arranged, if you 
 like, — on a business basis 
 
 ]\Iary. I don't quite understand — you say — the 
 place — can be arranged. 
 
 Alden. If that's the way you want to live 
 
 Mary. But you 
 
 x\lden. Leave me out of it — I don't count. 
 
 Mary. Oh, Lew, don't be so hard, so cold. 
 Listen, Lew — I'll apologize — I'm sorry — I was 
 wrong. I ask you to forgive me — I was wrong — I'm 
 sorry. I've apologized — What more can I do? 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 79 
 
 Alden. There's nothing you can do — there's 
 nothing to be done. 
 
 Mary. Bnt things can't go on hke this- 
 
 Alden. No. Not exactly h"ke this — You've put 
 things on a business basis. We'll keep them there. 
 
 Mary. Does it mean that we are no longer to be 
 — husband and wife? Lew, you're not thinking of 
 thatr 
 
 Alden. No matter how long we live, things can 
 never again be the same between us. 
 
 Mary. You mean you don't care for me any 
 Ioniser ? 
 
 Alden. Would you expect me to go on carmg 
 for you, after a thing like this? 
 
 Mary. You don't — care — for me — any longer? 
 But surely this one trouble hasn't killed all your 
 afifection ? 
 
 Alden. It isn't this one trouble. It's what has 
 gone before. Your loan to Beecher was no sudden, 
 impulsive move. It was the result of secrecy, and 
 concealment, which have gone on for years. You've 
 been a long time hoarding that money. Every dollar 
 is a doubt of me. All through our married life 
 there's been fear and doubt — of me — and I never 
 knew — Even when you told me you loved me — you 
 were on your guard. The thing that hurts me is the 
 fact that you don't trust me — that you have never 
 trusted me. It isn't the Beecher affair that stings — 
 it's the years of secrecy, the years of mistrust. 
 
 Mary. (Dully) What are you going to do? 
 What do you want me to do — Do you want me — to 
 — leave you ? 
 
 Lew. (Bitterly) I'll save you the trouble. 
 
 Mary. My God how can you say such a thing to 
 me? 
 
 Lewis. Now I know the truth and it's worse than 
 I thought. Your trust in me has gone — My affec- 
 tion has gone with it. I'm done. 
 
8o HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 ]\Iary. Oh, Lew, what a terrible thing you're 
 thinking of doing 
 
 Lewis. I'm done I tell you 
 
 Mary. Oh, no, you'll think better of this to- 
 morrow 
 
 Lewis. I'm going 
 
 Mary. No- 
 Lewis. Now 
 
 Mary. Stay here and talk to me. Let me talk to 
 you — {She clings to Iiim) At least wait until to- 
 morrow ; give your anger a chance to cool. I know 
 if you go away in this mood, you'll be — merciless — 
 {He tries to release himself from her but she clasps 
 his hands) Lew — dear — think of all the years v/e've 
 been together. 
 
 Lewis. "Why didn't you think of them? 
 
 Mary. Why, you mustn't leave me. I couldn't 
 bear it — you'd be unhappy too — who'd take care of 
 you. I've apologized — I was wrong. I'll say it over 
 and over again. I'm sorry. Oh, so sorry. I'll 
 endure my punishment rather than that. I don't 
 want the money — or the house — or anything — I 
 don't ask you to care for me — only — don't leave me. 
 {She throws her arms about his neck) No. No. 
 Not that. You mustn't. You shan't. I'm your 
 wife. Lew. Your wife 
 
 Lewis. It's no use Mary. 
 
 Mary. It's cruel — and I don't deserve it — Oh, 
 you're making me so miserable — so unhappy. {She 
 follozvs him pleading — zveeping — inarticulate) Lew 
 — for God's sake don't leave me — I love you — 
 You're breaking my heart — {He releases himself and 
 goes out) Lew — Lew — {The door closes. Mary 
 reels into a chair) He's gone. He's gone. 
 
 CURTAIN. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 8i 
 
 ACT III. 
 
 Tlie Third Act takes place at Locust Hill the 
 home of Mrs. Alden, on Long Island, in June of the 
 next year. 
 
 On the Right is a pretty stucco cottage— two 
 
 stories high. There is a little porch, with a step 
 
 leading to it — which runs in a curve : The roof is 
 
 supported by two pillars. The main entrance to the 
 
 house opens off this porch and runs straight up and 
 
 down the stage. A large French window also opens 
 
 on the porch from a portion of the house, running 
 
 across the stae-e. There is also a large window to 
 
 the left of the porch. There are four upstairs 
 
 windows : on each of these there is a window box 
 
 of flowers. On the left of the stage running straight 
 
 up and down is the main road. A high, well-trimmed 
 
 hedge separates this road from the lawn. There is 
 
 a gate hung between two large white posts. There 
 
 is a locust°tree in the Centre of the stage, in full 
 
 bloom. A curved bench is placed about the foot of 
 
 it. There are three locust trees outside the hedge in 
 
 a line, up and dov^^l stage. All in full bloom. A 
 
 hedge runs across the stage from right to left at back. 
 
 A stile in the Centre of this gives access to the 
 
 chicken run and as this rises as it reaches the back 
 
 of the stage, the chickens can be plainly seen. In 
 
 the foreground, at back, are chicken houses, and 
 
 runs, enclosed in wire fence. In the background is a 
 
 Long Island Country side. Such of the furnishings 
 
 of the house, as can be seen, indicate a plain but 
 
 comfortable home. 
 
82 HliR OWN MONEY. 
 
 ACT III. 
 
 Scene : — When the curtain rises, Mildred is dis- 
 covered feeding chickens. 
 
 Mildred. (Caning) Chick, Chick, Chickee, 
 Chickee. 
 
 RiiODA. (Off) Get out o' heah. Go on. (She 
 appears driving a chicken out of the house) De 
 parlor ain't no place for a chicken. She — (Sees 
 Mildred) Lawsee. Is you feedin' dem chickens 
 agin ? 
 
 Mildred. They're hungry. 
 
 Rhoda. You can't fill up a chicken nohow — Day's 
 wuss'n boarders. First thing you know dey gwine 
 to have de gout, or de pip, or whatever it is — dey 
 gits. 
 
 Mildred. (Showing pan to chickens) Empty. 
 All gone. 
 
 RnoDA. Ef dey ain't had enough let 'em go an' 
 eat bugs. Whut time you 'low Miss Mary be home 
 from de poultry show. 
 
 Mildred. She'll be here in time for dinner. 
 
 Rhoda. I hope so. I didn't sleep a wink last 
 night, I was so skeered. Every time a chicken 
 snored I thought it was a burglar. I hate to do it, 
 but I gwine to leave you ; I'm gwine to tell Mis' 
 Mary when she gets home. 
 
 Mildred. Why, Rhoda, we can't get on without 
 you. 
 
 Rhoda. I wouldn't keer if dey wuz a man on de 
 place at night. But jest three women all by our- 
 selves — um — um. De country ain't no place fo' a 
 nervous woman. 
 
 Mildred. Oh, you mustn't leave us, Rhoda — 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 83 
 
 Talk it over with Mary; she'll be here now — very 
 soon. (Looking at zvatch) Mr. Hazleton is going 
 to bring her over from the station in his car. 
 
 RiiODA. Mr. Hazleton been mighty convenient 
 with dat car, ain't he ? Jess seems like he has busi- 
 ness somewhere round dat depo' every night when 
 yo'all git home. 
 
 Mildred. {A trifle dignified) Mr. Hazleton's 
 firm is promoting Grasslands Improvements. It's 
 only five m.iles from here. It's perfectly natural 
 that he should have business — or — or come see his 
 old friends 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. It's nachel enough. (Care- 
 lessly) And I reckon he got plenty o' time to spare. 
 Grasslands don't 'mount to much. 
 
 Mildred. (Indignantly) Why, Rhoda, Grass- 
 lands is over half sold, ft's doing splendidly. And 
 it's all Mr. Hazleton's vvork. He's one of the best 
 real estate men on the Island. He's making lots of 
 money and he's saving it. 
 
 (Rhoda slyly chuckles. The noise of a car is heard 
 off, left. Mildred goes to gate, and looks out. 
 Waves her handkerchief.) 
 
 Rhoda. Is dat I\Iis' Mary? 
 
 Mildred. Yes. She's coming. (Calling) Hello, 
 Mary. H^ello, Tommy. (The car stops in front of 
 gate) So glad you've come, dear. 
 
 Tommy. (Off) Thank you. CKuod a chuckles) 
 
 Mildred. Oh, I wasn't talking to you. You 
 silly thing. 
 
 (Mary comes through gate carrying a pretty game 
 
 cock.) 
 
 Mary. Hov/ are you, dear — Is everything all 
 right, Rhoda? 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. 
 
 Mildred. I hope you're not tired. 
 
84 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. Not a bit — Had a lovely day. 
 
 (Tommy Hazleton comes through gate.) 
 
 Tommy. Hello. 
 
 Mildred. Hello. 
 
 Mary. Well, Rhoda — do you see that? {She 
 points to blue ribbon on the game cock) 
 
 Rhoda. What y'all got William Henry dressed 
 up fo' like dat? 
 
 Mary. William Henry — your own pride and joy, 
 won a blue ribbon. 
 
 Rhoda. {Pleased) Lawsee, you don't mean it. 
 {Takes game cock) Chile — I'm proud of you. 
 Mammy's pet. {To Mary) Did he lick all dem 
 other chickens? 
 
 Mary. Why, Rhoda, they didn't let him fight. 
 
 Rhoda. Den hovv^ come dey know he's de best 
 chicken ? 
 
 Mary. They judge them on points. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum, but fightin' is dis chicken's 
 strong point. 
 
 Mary. Any more little ones to-day? {She goes 
 to porch and takes off dust coat and veil) 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. Four broods an' about four 
 hundred orphans. 
 
 Tommy. Orphans? 
 
 Rhoda. De kind dey hatches in dat incumbaker. 
 
 Mildred. {Laughing) Rhoda has a grudge 
 against the incubator. 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. Dat's no way to disappoint a 
 hen. No wonder dey hides off in a corner an' sets 
 on a bunch o' door knobs. (Rhoda goes out with 
 the game cock) 
 
 Mary. Put away the car, Mr. Hazleton, and have 
 supper with us. 
 
 Mildred. Yes, Tommy, do. 
 
 Tommy. Will you go for a ride, after supper? 
 
 Mildred. If you like. 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 85 
 
 (Tommy smiles at Mildred and starts out of gate.) 
 
 Mary. Oh, Mr. Hazleton, will you please bring 
 my bag. 
 
 Tommy. Oh, of course. Excuse me. I over- 
 looked it. (He goes out) 
 
 ]\IiLDRED. Well, how was the poultry show ? 
 
 Mary. Lovely. They had some of the dearest 
 birds — I made friends with the finest Turkey. 
 
 Mildred. See anyone you know — any old friends 
 I mean. 
 
 Mary. I happened to meet Tvlrs. Sam Ames. 
 She asked me where we were living. She doesn't 
 know — that Lew, and I — (Hesitates) 
 
 Mildred. No, of course not. It's a wonder Mrs. 
 Beecher didn't tell every one in town. 
 
 Mary. Thank Heaven, Airs. Beecher doesn't 
 know any of our friends 
 
 Mildred. And I don't suppose she has any of 
 her ovvai. While you, were in town — This came for 
 you. (SJie takes a letter from the bosom of her 
 dress, and gives it to Mary, zvho takes it from her, 
 and looks at it, then crumples it in her hand, un- 
 opened) Aren't you going to read it? 
 
 Mary. No. 
 
 Mildred. It might be important — You might 
 want to answer it. (Mary shakes her head) Mary, 
 do you think things will always be like this. Aren't 
 you ever going to forgive him ? 
 
 Mary. Why should I ? 
 
 Mildred. Why — because he's such a baby — All 
 men are like that.' Lew is a little more peppery than 
 most men, but he can't help his temper. He flared 
 i^ip — Now, he's sorry. He was sorry the next 
 day. 
 
 Mary. Lew went away — he — left me — I waited. 
 I gave him his chance — Now — it is too late 
 
 Mildred. Oh, don't say that — it will mean such 
 unhappiness 
 
86 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 jNIary. Why should you care, if Lew is un- 
 happy 
 
 Mildred. I was thinking of you Mary — you're 
 unhappy — You miss him — I know you do. 
 
 Mary. Yes — I miss Lew — {She turns away. 
 Rhoda appears on porch) 
 
 Rhoda. Mis' Mary, is Mr. Hazleton gwine to 
 stay to supper ? 
 
 Mary. Yes — Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. {Disgusted) Nothin' but baked beans, 
 an' fo' miles from a sto'. 
 
 (Enter Tommy r. cheerfully swinging bag.) 
 
 Mary. Why don't you kill a chicken? 
 
 Rhoda. Every time he comes out here I kill a 
 chicken — if I feed him any more chicken he'll begin 
 to flap his wings and cackle. 
 
 Tommy. Here's your bag, Mrs. Alden. 
 
 Mary. Oh — careful, please — There's a dozen 
 eggs in there — and they cost me a dollar a piece 
 
 Tommy. What are they, ostrich eggs? 
 
 Mildred. I'm going to get some of the little 
 chickens to show Tommy. (Mildred runs out) 
 
 Tommy. Rhoda, I'll turn this oyer to you. 
 {Gives her bag) 
 
 Rhoda. Yes, suh. Ef you want to wash yo' 
 hands — befo' supper, eyerything is ready in de guest 
 chamber. I hope y'all ain't yery hungry. We got 
 beans fo' supper. 
 
 Tommy. {Joking manner) Nothing could be 
 better. See that my bean is well done and baked on 
 both sides. {He laughs at Rhoda and goes in) 
 
 Rhoda. He sho' is de most comical gentleman — 
 always jokin' 
 
 Mary. {Beneath tree) Aren't the locust trees 
 loyely? All full of bloom 
 
 Rhoda. Yassum. An' all full o' bees 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 87 
 
 Mary. Tni afraid you don't like the country, 
 Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. Who — me? No, suh. I can't stand it, 
 Mis' Mary, I'm goin' to beat it back to town. 
 
 Mary. Oh, it's ever so much nicer out here. It's 
 clean — and sweet — and quiet. 
 
 Rhoda. De quiet is gettin' on my nerves. Dey's 
 never no excitement, h'ke a fire, or a fight. I sho' 
 do love sompin' doin'. At home, I could put my 
 haid outen de window an' hear de elevated — Some- 
 times I git so hongry, fo' jest one smell, o' de sub- 
 way, um — um. 
 
 Mary. Oh, I'm so sorry you don't like it here. 
 I hoped you would — I love it — and I'm happy 
 
 Rhoda. 'Deed you ain't. 
 
 Mary. Rhoda. 
 
 Rhoda. No, suh. Yo' certainly am spirited — 
 You ain't never let on — not a word — You's de 
 spunkiest lady ever I see. But you an' me is a 
 couple o' near widows — an' we ain't happy. 
 
 Mary. And you're going to leave me? 
 
 Rhoda. Lawd knows I hates to go, but I can't 
 stand it, out here. (She begins to snivel softly) 
 I'll stay till de end o' de month. 
 
 (Enter Mildred from behind house. She carries a 
 couple of tiny yellozv chicks.) 
 
 Mildred. Now don't be afraid — nobody's going 
 to hurt you and pretty soon you'll be back under 
 mother's wing. 
 
 Rhoda. Dat incumbaker ain't got no wings. 
 (She goes into house R., takes bag, veil, coat, pan) 
 
 Mildred. Where's Tommy? 
 
 Mary. Upstairs. 
 
 Mildred. (Calling) Tommy — Tommy — I've got 
 something to show vou. 
 
 Tommy. (Off) ^Vhat is it. 
 
 Mildred. Hurry down. 
 
88 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mary. {Looks at chicks) Handling is bad for 
 the little chicks. 
 
 Mildred. Oh, is it? As soon as Tommy sees 
 them, I'll put them back. 
 
 (Tom Hazleton comes from house and joins them. 
 She shozvs Jiim baby chicks.) 
 
 Tommy. What is it — a powder puff? 
 
 Mildred. Baby chicks. Aren't they pretty. I 
 love 'em when they're like this. 
 
 Tommy. (Strokes one) Nice fur. 
 
 Mary. (Takes them) It will soon be time for 
 all good little chicks to go beddy bye. (To Tommy 
 and Mildred) Don't go rambling off and be late 
 for supper. (She quietly goes out whispermg to 
 chicks. Tommy stands by gate looking out) 
 
 Mildred. Have a Rose. (She puts it in his 
 buttonhole) 
 
 Tommy. The decorative eft'ect must be very 
 pleasing. 
 
 Mildred. (Fastening it in buttonhole. Winces) 
 Oh ! ' 
 
 Tommy. Pin? 
 
 Mildred. (Shozvs her finger) Thorn. (He 
 looks at finger — kisses it) Now, Tomimy — No — 
 *' sentiment." 
 
 Tommy. (Resumes merely friendly attitude) 
 No sentiment. 
 
 Mildred. (Cautions him) Remember our 
 agreement 
 
 Tommy. (Lightly) Be it known to. all men by 
 these presents — That the party of the first part, and 
 the party of the second part agree to disagree — re- 
 garding the state of matrimony. 
 
 Mildred. Now, Tommy, what's the use of going 
 all over that again. On certain subjects we think 
 differently. Oh, I know you can't see my point of 
 view 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 89 
 
 Tommy. I can see it, but I don't like it — " ]\Iar- 
 riage — is business." 
 
 Mildred. I don't like you to say such things to 
 me. And I don't Hke you to think them. — Do you 
 remember — a year ago — you told me ]^>Iary and her 
 husband — were a happy couple. 
 
 Tommy. Vvxll — they zvere happy 
 
 Mildred. She wasn't 
 
 Tom. Lew thought the world of her 
 
 Mildred. And she thought the world of him. 
 Well — just one thing went wrong. See the result — 
 They haven't seen each other for a year. They will 
 very likely never see each other again. 
 
 Tommy. I wonder. {He glances tozvard the 
 gate) 
 
 Mildred. Oh, no. He doesn't care any more. 
 (Tommy smiles to himself) And I don't think she 
 cares about him 
 
 Tommy. She's not happy 
 
 Mildred. No. I suppose it takes time to get 
 over a blovv^ such as she had — But she's — indepen- 
 dent — She's done splendidly. She's succeeded. 
 
 Tommy. Don't forget, you helped. 
 
 Mildred. Yes. For a year all my spare money 
 has gone in the business. I'll share the profit — And 
 it's beginning to come in — It's nice — having a share 
 in a business 
 
 Tommy. Yes. I've been thinking — of — forming 
 a " partnership." (He looks at her in a longing way 
 — which she does not notice) 
 
 Mildred. Real estate? 
 
 Tommy. No. Not real estate. 
 
 Mildred. Oh, then you'll give up real estate. 
 
 Tommy. Not at all. This will be a venture in — 
 {He looks slyly at her) another direction. {He 
 gives her a look zvhich she does not notice) 
 
 Mildred. But, Tommy, you're so busy — Will you 
 have time to attend to it? 
 
90 HER OWN ]\IONEY. 
 
 Tommy. Oh, it won't take all my time — and I'll 
 leave a good deal of it to my partner. 
 
 Mildred. Oh, your — partner understands the 
 business. 
 
 Tommy. (Again casting a sly glance at her) 
 Apparently, much better than I do. 
 
 Mildred. Who is it ? 
 
 Tommy. You. 
 
 Mildred. Now Tommy 
 
 Tommy. Wait. This isn't a proposal. It's a busi- 
 ness proposition. First of all, suppose we go in a 
 partnership — for life. Of course, you would have 
 to leave the firm you're with — but anyone in busi- 
 ness — does that — when they try something new. 
 The income of the new firm — is their joint property 
 — and the party of the first part, and the party of the 
 second part both have access, to the books. The 
 parties hereto shall agree on a certain sum, for the 
 support and maintenance, of their joint establish- 
 ment, to wit : — a home — the remainder of the afore- 
 said income shall be divided equally between the two 
 parties hereto to have and to hold — to blow or to 
 save — without let or hindrance 
 
 Mildred. Oh, stop, stop. (He hesitates) 
 Tommy, that's dear of you. I've been waiting to 
 hear you say something like that, for a long time. 
 
 Tommy. Hooray, I've said the right thing at 
 last. 
 
 Mildred. (With feeling) Oh, it isn't that I'm 
 selfish — or mercenary — or don't trust you — but when 
 I see the wreck and misery of people's lives — simply 
 because they haven't had a clear sensible under- 
 standing. 
 
 ToMM\^ (Sincerely) We'll have no wreck, little 
 girl — And when shall the new firm — incorporate? 
 
 Mildred. Oh, not for ever so long — I can't leave 
 Mary. She needs me — She needs my help — She'd 
 be alone 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 91 
 
 Tommy. It might happen that your sister — and 
 her husband- 
 
 MiLDRED. It won't happen 
 
 Tommy. But if it should. 
 
 Mildred. Why of course, if Mary had someone 
 to look after her, and help her. (Tommy smiles 
 happily) Wliat are you smiling about 
 
 Tommy. That's a promise? If— Lew and your 
 sister 
 
 Mildred. I suppose so. 
 
 Tommy. And now that the — business end is 
 settled — I want to make a few remarks about your 
 eyes, and your hair 
 
 Mildred. {Szveetly) I don't mind. (Alden 
 comes in from the road, and stands slightly outside 
 the gate. He looks older— and tired. Mildred sees 
 him) Why, it's Lew— Mr. Alden. 
 
 Alden. No — Lew — please. 
 
 Mildred. Won't you — come in? (Lewis opens 
 gate and comes in) How are you. (Mildred ad- 
 vancing tozuard him, constrained. They shake 
 hands. To Tommy) You knew. 
 
 Tommy. Yes. 
 
 Mildred. Why didn't you tell me? 
 
 Tommy. I wanted to get that promise, and I got 
 
 it. 
 
 Alden. Do you think Mary will see me? 
 
 Mildred. Oh, I hope so. (Tommy smiles cheer- 
 fully) But— well— I'm afraid. I'm sorry to say it 
 —but I'm afraid— You see. Lew— you waited so 
 long 
 
 Lewis. I know. 
 
 Mildred. She doesn't expect you. 
 
 Lewis. No, I have written several letters re- 
 cently. She answered — once. 
 
 Mildred. She didn't tell me 
 
 Lewis. Like you — I'm very much afraid — that I 
 waited too long. 
 
 Tommy. {To Mildred) Suppose you find her — 
 
92 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Mildred. What shall I say? 
 
 Tommy. Oh, just ask her to come here. 
 
 Mildred. Must I tell her Lew has come ? 
 
 Alden. No. She might not see me. 
 
 Tommy. Say I want to talk to her — about the 
 mortgage — or something like that. Any excuse will 
 do 
 
 Mildred. I understand — I will — (Going) — and 
 I do hope she'll forgive him — not only for his sake — 
 but for her own. 
 
 Tom my. And — ours ? 
 
 Mildred. And ours — (Mildred goes out) 
 
 Lewis. What a beautiful place 
 
 Tommy. Isn't it? 
 
 Lewis. You — found it — didn't you ? 
 
 Tommy. Yes — And she's doing very well. She 
 has Rhoda, and a boy to help her. She's beginning 
 to get some money. 
 
 Lewis. She said she could — I didn't believe it — 
 I was a fool 
 
 Tommy. Mrs. Alden has never discussed the 
 matter with me — so I have a very vague idea of your 
 trouble. I know it was something about money. 
 
 Lewis. It was all about money. We're both to 
 blame. At first I couldn't see my share — but I see 
 it now — and that's what makes me feel so cheap — 
 My mistake came first — My boy — let me give you a 
 piece of advice — When you marry — even if you're 
 only making ten dollars a week — give your wife her 
 end of it — and forget it. 
 
 Tommy. Of course. It's coming to her. I've 
 thought a lot about that — Of course if a man married 
 a woman like Mrs. Beecher 
 
 Lewis. She might have done better — if Beecher 
 had started right 
 
 Tommy. You know I don't think it's wise for two 
 people to marry until they've agreed on some way to 
 share their income, so the wife won't be dependent. 
 
 Lewis. That's it. You're on the right track — 
 
HER OWN MONEY. 93 
 
 stick to it. I wish I had understood. Mary — is 
 everything in the world to me — There never was any 
 other woman — I want her to come back to me. I'd 
 pay off the mortgage — She could go on with her 
 chickens — if she likes — I'd give anything — do any- 
 thing — if she'd only forgive me. {Thoughtfully) 
 Will she ?— Will she ? 
 
 Tommy. I don't know. 
 
 Lewis. I don't know how to speak to her — I 
 don't know what to say — I'm apt to make a fool of 
 myself — Will you see her first — tell her I'm here — 
 Ask her to let me speak to her — That's all — just 
 see her and talk to her. 
 
 Tommy. Why, of course. I'll do anything I 
 can — (Mary's voice is heard out, left) Suppose 
 you just step outside a moment — {Takes him to 
 gate) If you stand there — you can hear all that's 
 said and you'll be out of sight — Cheer up. 
 
 (Lewis goes out of gate. Tommy looks after him — 
 thoughtfully. Mary comes above, from house 
 
 R.) 
 
 Mary. Mildred says you want to talk to me, Mr. 
 Hazleton ? 
 
 Tommy. Yes. I want to say something to you — 
 it's rather important. 
 
 Mary. Is it about you — and Mildred. 
 
 Tommy. No. It's about you and 
 
 Mary. Oh — don't 
 
 Tommy. I must 
 
 Mary. Please. 
 
 Tommy. Don't think I'm curious — don't think I 
 mean to pry into your personal affairs — I have a — 
 sort of — message 
 
 Mary. From — Mr. Alden. 
 
 Tommy. From Lew — yes — He wants to see 
 you 
 
 Mary. {Shakes her head gravely) No. 
 
94 HER OWN MONEY. 
 
 Tommy. He wants to talk to you — to tell you 
 
 Mary. He has left things rest as they are — for 
 a year — We will let them rest as they are, for all the 
 years. 
 
 Tommy. He wants to come out here, and see you. 
 
 Mary. No. He must not come. 
 
 Tommy. He — has come. 
 
 Mary. He is — here? (Tommy nods. Mary 
 stands, silent, for some time) I do not want to see 
 him. He wrote me. I told him I did not want to see 
 him — Please — tell him — to go. 
 
 (Alden steps in at the gate. His face is set.) 
 
 Alden. Mary — (She turns toward him) I know 
 you feel bitter and I don't blame you. But I wish 
 you'd hear me. I was hurt — I didn't understand. 
 It was a rotten thing to do, but it didn't seem so at 
 the time. But when the hurt died away, I began to 
 think of the many things you had said. I tried to 
 get your point of view, and I have. We've nearly 
 made a wreck of our lives. In the very beginning 
 the fault was mine. Is it too late to try and make 
 things right. Won't you? Won't you? (A pause) 
 I'm sorry — (She only looks at him — he gazes at her. 
 Then very slowly he walks from the porch across to 
 the gate — and goes out. As he passes, Mary's face 
 shows all that is passing in her mind) 
 
 Mary. Lew — {She goes to gate) Lew — {She 
 goes out) 
 
 (Tommy comes to gate and looks off after them. 
 Mildred slips on and comes to him. Both 
 watch zvith anxioiis faces. Then their expres- 
 sion changes to relief — then to joy. Tom turns 
 to Mildred and holds out his arms. She shyly 
 looks up in his face and goes to him.) 
 
 CURTAIN. 
 
 w =5S. 78 
 
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