Class \ Q 3 5 &5 Book,' A 5 (o 5 C 5 Copyright^ IH-XS- COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. THE CAPTIVE 8 Pap in Jfour get* BY VICTOR MAPES Copyright, 1918, by Victor Mapes ALL RIGHTS RESERVED NEW YORK SAMUEL FRENCH PUBLISHER 28-30 WEST 38TH STREET LONDON SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd. 26 SOUTHAMPTON STREET STRAND — «. •> THE CAPTIVE A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS BY VICTOR MAPES Copyright, 1<)1S, By Victor Mapes. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED SAMUEL FRENCH publisher 28-30 West 38th Street New York London SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd. 26 Southampton Street STRAND CI.0 50707 NOV i 5 i SI S THE CAPTIVE CAST "Macedonian officers Alexander Bessus Viceroy of Eastern Persia Oxyartes King of Bactra Brasidas A fat old Macedonian Captain Spitamenes A Persian soldier, com- panion of Bessus Eurylocus An old Persian physician Polymon A young and handsome' Mace- donian officer Clitus Hephestion Peucestas Leonnatus Amyntas Menides Iolas Alexander's cup-bearer Phanus Ambassador of the Arian King Diphilos A Macedonian soldier Kainos A Macedonian soldier Aristander An aged Macedonian Soothsayer Roxana Daughter of Oxyartes Evadne Her attendant and companion Xantippa A Persian woman Macedonian Officers, Guards, Attendants, Messen- gers, Slaves, Cup-bearers, Musicians, etc. Danc- ing Girls, Women Captives, Persian soldiers, etc., etc. 3 THE CAPTIVE SYNOPSIS OF ACTS ACT I Scene I : The " Greek " and the Persian (A wooded spot outside of Bactra in Persia) Scene 2: The Captive. (The same set — ten days later) ACT II Scene I : The Voice of Love (Terrace of the Palace, by moonlight) Scene 2 : The Poison (An isolated spot in the woods) Scene 3 : The Antidote (Banquet Hall in the Palace) ACT III All is Won and All is Lost (Terrace by moonlight, same as Act II) ACT IV Scene I : The Assault. (Outside the walls of the Mallian Rock) Scene 2 : Alexander — the Great (Inside the walls of the Mallian Rock) 4 THE CAPTIVE ACT I SCENE I Scene : A zvooded spot, with a rising hill or knoll np-stage and a view of mountainous country in the distance. To Right, half-zvay upstage is the entrance of a small hut. Some stumps and a fallen log or ttvo to serve as seats. Time: Bright sunshine. Discovered: Some Persian Guards, in rich uni- form, enter r. i e. and draw back upstage a little, as enter Oxyartes, a dignified and richly costumed old man — the King of Bactra. He is accompanied by Phanus, an ambassador from a neighboring kingdom. Oxyartes. This is the hut of old Eurylocus. For more than fifty years he's been our chief physi- cian and our trusted friend at the court of Bactra. Ambassador. His name, O King, is not unknown even to us Arians. Oxyartes. My daughter, Roxana, is the joy and care of his declining years. A strange ambition 5 6 THE CAPTIVE has possessed the girl, to learn the secrets of his art. Together they pass the days here in the woods gathering herbs and plants, and discussing all the ills that mortal flesh is heir to. Ambassador. 'Twill please my King to hear of this. OXYARTES. Ah? Ambassador. His eldest son, Prince Hargus, has reached the marrying age. Oxyartes. Prince Hargus is a noble youth. Ambassador. I am charged to ask for him your daughter's hand. Oxyartes. Such a proposal from Arsames honors me and mine. But now it is impossible. Ambassador. Impossible? Oxyartes. The grace of the gods has fallen on my daughter. She has won the love of the greatest in the land — the mighty viceroy of all our kingdoms here. Ambassador. Bessus? Oxyartes. Bessus. If Darius' little son should die, which the gods forbid — : none other stands between Bessus and the great throne of all Persia. Ambassador. When is the wedding cere- mony ? Oxyartes. I cannot tell 'till Bessus comes again. Our Emperor, Darius, as doubtless you have heard, went forth from Babylon some two months ago, to crush the Macedonian upstart, Alexander. Bessus went with him. Ambassador. We heard in Aria that the Mace- donian army, numbered less than thirty thousand men. Oxyartes. It seems incredible with so small a force he should have gained one foot of Persian soil. But Alexander is young, and like a savage beast, THE CAPTIVE 7 he's plunged ahead to sure destruction. Darius' army, so Bessus said, would number near a million men when he set out from Babylon. Ambassador. You've had no news since then? Oxvartes. The distance is great — Still I wonder that no word has come. Guard. (Entering r. i e.) A messenger comes in ^reat haste from the palace ! Oxyartes. Ah? (Enter Messenger r. i e.) Speak, what news ? Messenger. The mighty viceroy Bessus ap- proaches Bactra — He sends greetings to your maj- esty. Oxvartes Bessus ! Come, Phanus ! We must welcome him ! (Exeunt Guards, Oxyartes, Ambassador r. i e. Enter Eurylocus l., follozved by Evadne zvho carries a small basket of herbs. He crosses to r. c, and sits on stump.) Eurylocus. (As he enters) Come, my chil- dren, — we've done enough to-day. We'll rest and sort our herbs. Roxana. (Off l.) Eurylocus! Eurylocus. (Sitting and turning) Well — what now? Evadne. Roxana calls you — she has found an- other herb. (Looking off l.) Roxana. (Off l.) Eurylocus! Eurylocus. (Calling off) Aye! Aye! Bring it here ! Evadne. (Going off l., and speaking off as she goes) What is it you have found? (Roxana en- ters l., excitedly and triumphantly, holding an herb in her hand. Evadne follozvs her on) Roxana. Eurylocus! (She goes toward him) Eurylocus. Well — Roxana ? THE CAPTIVE 9 Roxana. {To Eurylocus) Spitamenes is her lover. Eurylocus. Oh — young Spitamenes, the Sog- dian, — the companion of great Bessus. Roxana. {To Evadne) 'Tis more important you should know about the antidote. Evadne. Anti-dote ? Roxana. {Nodding) I'll show you that — It's not so difficult to find. {She looks in her basket and takes out herb) See Eurylocus. That is the Komana. Roxana. That can make this poison harmless. It is not so, Eurylocus? (Eurylocus nods. To Evadne) I'll show you how it is prepared. Evadne. What for? Roxana. Why then, in case Eurylocus, or I. or some one else should ooison your lover, you'd know the way to save his life. Eurylocus. Sixty years ago this poison freed us from the Scythian King — when he had plundered half our land. He drank the fever in his wine. Our King, Roxana's grandfather, drank likewise of the wine, but no harm came to him. Roxana. {To Evadne) You see he took the anti-dote afterwards. Evadne Who did a'l that? Eurylocus. {Taking up the baskets of herbs) Among the captives of the Scythian King one was my mother. She was his favorite slave and poured the wine. Before she died, years afterwards, she told the secret to me, that good might come of it — as I have done to you. {He goes into hut with the baskets of herbs) Evadne. Let's speak no more of poison, or I shall surely dream of it. Roxana. There's something else that you would rather dream about — I know. I heard you in your ro THE CAPTIVE sleep, last night, murmuring : " Spitamenes " — " Spitamenes " ! Evadne. I'm not ashamed to say that Spitamenes pleases me. You are to be the wife of Bessus and I hope to be no less to Spitamenes. Roxana. (Protesting) Evadne ! Evadne. I know— you pucker up your lips, so often as I mention Bessus' name. But I am not de- ceived, Roxana. Roxana. You are mistaken, Evadne. I have no desire to marry. Evadne. Now I smile ! Roxana. Truly I have not. I am very happy here in Bactra — with my father's love and yours, and old Eurylocus ! I ask for nothing more. Evadne. You do not wish to sit beside Bessus on his throne? Roxana. I shudder when I think of it. He is our mighty viceroy, I know, and what he wills — 'tis our duty to obey. My father wills it, too. I know not what to say to my father. "I do not wish to marry " — he laughs at that. " I feel no love for Bessus — nor for any man " — he laughs again and tells me love will come with time. I only know that I was wretched while Bessus stayed in Bactra as often as he looked at me. Evadne. I cannot make you out — Now with me, it's so different. A man might be tall or short, fat or lean ; but provided he was a king or a great warrior with chariots and palaces to offer me, I could close my eyes directly and feel great love for him. Roxana. Evadne — what will be — will be. (A flare of trumpets is heard off r. Roxana starts) What is that ? (Evadne runs to the top of the hill and looks off r. Roxana follows her up a little. Evadne THE CAPTIVE n displays great excitement as she sees someone approaching.) Evadne. (Callinq to Roxana in an excited zvhis- per) Roxana! (She runs down to Roxana and touches her arm) Roxana — Spitamenes and Bes- sns ! Roxana. (Under her breath) What? (She makes a move to go up. Evadne checks her and motions r. I e., as some Persian Guards enter and stand to one side, followed by a Herald) Herald. (Announcing) His Majesty, the vice- roy, Bessus. (He steps to one side, as Bessus en- ters, followed by Spitamenes. Both are dressed in rich Persian costumes, without armor. More Guards follow and remain r. Bessus sees Roxana and moves to r. c, where lie stops, gazing at her) Bessus. Roxana! (Roxana and Evadne in- cline lozv before Bessus, while Spitamenes does likewise, saluting Roxana) Nay — raise your head that I may look at you. Roxana. (Raising her head) Sire Bessus. Now I see you and my heart is sat- isfied. Roxana. I am much surprised at your sudden coming. I — You have seen my father? (Eurylocus comes out of hut and stands up-stage, looking on.) Bessus. Yes, Roxana. Your father is giving orders to his soldiers. He sets out from Bactra be- fore night. Roxana. What has happened, then? Bessus. The Macedonian — Alexander — has won another victory. Roxana. Against our King of kings? Bessus. Darius sought safety in flight, and his 12 THE CAPTIVE army seized with panic, met its fate in general des- truction. Roxana. This Alexander, then, is he invincible? Bessus. Have no fear, Roxana. He's dizzy now with the blood he's spilled. He does not see the doom that waits for him. Roxana. How can you hope to conquer him? Bessus. We'll capture him alive — we'll put him in a cage — we'll wreak a vengeance on his flesh so lingering and so terrible that he alone will die a hundred thousand deaths and pay the count of all the Persians he has slain. I will do it, or cease to call me Bessus. Roxana. He is a monster and I hate him so, that I could wish to see him mangled in a cage ! Bessus. You have not yet heard all. (He turns to Guards and ivavcs them back) Withdraw! (He turns to Spitamenes) Spitamenes, await me at the palace. We wish to be alone. (All go off. Spitamenes goes up r. c, and waits for Evadne. She shows hesitation and looks to Roxana. Bessus motions her to go and she goes out with Spitamenes over hill. After they arc gone, Bessus goes to Roxana and takes her hand.) Bessus. Roxana? — Are you afraid to be alone with me ? Roxana. {Withdrawing her hand and recoiling a little, but meeting his gaze, firmly) What is this other news that you have come to tell me ? Bessus. The news is great, Roxana, — 'twill shake all Persia when all Persia knows. 'Tis too soon now for that. Besides, it pleases me that you should be the first to hear — Darius' little son was with the baggage train which fell as plunder to the Macedonians. He is no more. THE CAPTIVE 13 Roxana. (In despair) Oh! Bessus. He was the only one that stood between me and the great throne of Persia — That is not all. Prepare yourself. Darius, our great Emperor, has ceased to be. I, Bessus, am the King of kings ! (Roxana looks at him with a sort of holy awe, then mechanically she sinks down, in a shrinking zvay, and prostrates herself according to the Persian cus- tom, before the King of kings) Rise, Roxana, you forget you are my promised wife — and soon to be a!l Persia's Queen of cueens. I love you, Roxana, and I want you mine — more ardently than I want this mighty name that makes me lord of all. I burn to hold you in my arms ! (He seises her hands — ■ Roxana ivithdrazvs them, shrinking) Roxana. No— sire — no — I beg of you. (Bessus straightens himself haughtily) I cannot accept your love — I Bessus. You cannot! Why? Roxana. Tis nothing, sire. I — I am bewildered. All this you've told me — I Bessus. You are my promised wife. I am your king. I love you. Have I no right to touch your hand ? Roxana. Be patient with me, sire. It is a favor I will thank you for. Speak not of love to-day. (Bessus looks at her, turns away a step — nettled — then turns back and bows to her with a gesture of submission.) Bessus. What then? Roxana. My father and his army — do they go against the Macedonians ? Bessus. No. The Macedonians have doubtless gone to Babylon. There, I expect they'll stay a month to nurse their wounds and glorify themselves with feasts and drunkenness. Before that time 14 THE CAPTIVE has passed, I'll have an army that will twice match theirs. The Mallian Rock is, as you know, the great- est fortress of this land and we will have it doubly fortified. 'Tis there that we will dig their graves for them. There I will show you Alexander in a cage. Roxana. My father goes there now? Bessus. He goes to take command of all the Mallians. Roxana. Then what of me and all our people here ? Do we go with him, too ? Bessus. Your father and his soldiers go alone. So it is arranged. (Enter Oxyartes r. i e., in zvarlike attire.) Oxyartes. My commands are given, Bessus. Bessus. So soon? Oxyartes. When the trumpet calls, we go — You have spoken to Roxana? — What is your will as to the ceremony? Roxana. (Dismayed) Ceremony? Oxyartes. (Looking from one to the other) How's this ? You have not told her yet what we had planned? (Bessus gives a glance towards Roxana, and signifies by a gesture to Oxyartes that he has not yet broached the matter to Roxana. Oxyartes looks from one to the other and smiles at Bessus indulgently) Is it so? I see— A king in love is like a common swain. Bessus. She would not have me tell her of my love, to-day. Oxyartes. (Turns slowly and looks at Roxana zvith surprise and reproach, yet gently) Roxana — (She hangs her head a minute, then glides to him in a trembling, fearsome zvay and buries her head on his breast) Roxana. Father ! THE CAPTIVE 15 (Oxyartes strokes her head gently.) Oxyartes. (To Roxana, gently) There — there (He exhanges glances with Bessus. Bes- sus makes a sign that he will withdraw. Oxyartes nods his head in assent, and signifies that he will speak to Roxana alone and all will be well. Bessus goes out r. i e.) Roxana — look at me — what is the trouble, child? (Roxana lifts her head and sees that Bessus has gone.) Roxana. When you set out to-day, take me with you ! Don't leave me here behind ! Oxyartes. I and my soldiers must travel far and fast, to rouse the country against this Macedonian. A woman could not go with us. Roxana. I want to go with you ! Oxyartes. Later on, if all is well, and we hold safe the Mallian Rock, then you may come and join me there, — if Bessus wills it so. Roxana. Bessus ? Oxyartes. Bessus will remain a day or two in Bactra, here, to await a messenger with news from Babylon. Then he will go to raise his standard among the Sogdians who are assembling now all through the North. There is no danger here — the Macedonian's next attack will be against the Mallian Rock. Roxana. Then I must remain here? Oxyartes. That must be as Bessus says. Tis his wish, as well as mine, that you should be his wife to-day. Roxana. (Shrinking) Father! Not to-day ! Oxyartes. Why not to-day ? Roxana. I must have time — I — Father, I am your daughter. Don't force me, now. To-day may 16 THE CAPTIVE be the last time I shall ever see you. (Oxyartes makes a gesture of impatience) Father — we cannot tell — it may. You are going far away — to battle with the bloody Alexander. Oxyartes. 'Tis better I should see you married, then, before I go. Roxana. Father — I do not wish to marry Bes- sus (Oxyartes makes a movement) — now — to- day — I have not learned to love him yet. I only ask a little time. Oxyartes. I love you, Roxana, and I would never wish to force you wrongfully. But Bessus has my word. If I go now, and leave you here a maid, will you give me your word that whether I live or whether I die, you will marry Bessus? Roxana. If we should never meet again, I prom- ise you, because you will it so, that no one else but Bessus will ever call me wife. Oxyartes. (Raising his hand) By Phoebus — you swear? Roxana. By Phoebus, I swear. Oxyartes. And if you break that solemn oath — Roxana. (Going to his arms) Father! Oxyartes. I love you, Roxana, — so you must have your way. Roxana. Take me with you ! Oxyartes. That cannot be. I'll join Bessus now, and tell him what we have agreed. (He starts to go R. I E.) Roxana. (Calling) Father! (She rushes to him ) Oxyartes. Roxana ! My daughter ! (He kisses her and goes out r. i e.) (Roxana looks after Oxyartes a moment. Then she zvalks back c, slowly, thinking. She sits down on stump, rests her chin in her hands, staring on the ground before her. After a time THE CAPTIVE 17 she rouses hefself, looks about, rises and goes up stage a little, in a hesitating way. She looks tozvard hut r., with a new thought and goes to the door. She opens door and enters. Then re-appears in the door, looking about undecided, she moves c, calling.) Roxana. (Calling) Eurylocus ! (She pauses for an answer, then goes to top of hill and looks off. She turns about on hill and calls again) Eurylocus ! (Receiving no answer, she goes off over hill and is heard calling again after she is out of sight. Off up r., calling in distance) Eurylocus! (The stage is silent a moment, then low sounds of tramping horses breaking fauigs, and clinking armor arc heard off l., with the noise of voices. Then Alexander enters l., in a cautious zvay leading his horse. He wears light armor. He sees the hut, turns and enjoins silence on his men, with a gesture, then he turns his horse's head l., and hands the bridle to Hephestion who appears l., with Amyntas. He motions them to lead the horse out of sight, and they disappear with the horse. Alexander goes to the hut, looks in the zi'indozv, sees no one, goes to the door and knocks, opens door and looks in. Then he comes down and peers r., then goes up the knoll crouching cautiously, then standing up boldly and taking in the viezv. Hephestion, Amyntas and Clitus appear at the edge of the zcoods l., wliilc other Soldiers can be seen through the trees behind them at a short distance Alexander turns dozen a step and calls to them in a Iozqi voice.) Alexander. Hephestion ! Amyntas ! Clitus ! (He waves them to come and they go to join him 18 THE CAPTIVE on the hill) There is a city here — (They stand on hill and look off, while the other Soldiers at edge of wood, advance a little and stand l., looking tozvard Alexander. He comes down r. c, think- ing. The others follow him dowti) One thing is sure — Bessus has escaped us. If he came East, this way, as we suppose he did, he may be safe enough within this city's walls — What say you, Amyntas ? Amyntas. We have with us less than two hun- dred men — There's nothing we can do against a town. Alexander. (Thinking) No. Amyntas. Our horses are tired. 'Twill take us three days at least to reach our army's camp again. Alexander. Bessus has escaped us ! Hephestion. What proof have we that he came here? He may have fled still further north among the Sogdians. Alexander. Yes Amyntas. The greatest obstacle that still stands in our path is not Bessus, but the warlike Mallians and their fortress town, — far down towards the South. Alexander. That may be, but Bessus is a regi- cide — he murdered Darius who was his King. I must lay my hands on Bessus first of all, because he must not live to boast that he has killed a King. Clitus. How can we tell there is no mountain road from here by which he could 'go South and reach the Mallians? Alexander. (After a moment's thought) My plans are made. I'll send Philotas with one-third our force to hold all roads that lie between here and the Mallians. Craterus with another force shall circle to the North and block communication with the Sogdians. Meanwhile, we will bring back THE CAPTIVE 19 here with us the remaining third and take this town. We may get news of Bessus, then, and we will know which way to march against him. (Roxana's voice is heard faintly off in the distance calling Eurylocus.) Roxana. (Off up r., in the distance, calling faintly) Eurylocus! Alexander. (Moving up a step) Hark! (He listens, then motions his men to withdraw. As they go l., out of sight in the woods, he calls. Hephestion to remain, in a whisper) Hephestion! (He motions Hephestion to stay with him as he goes up the hill cautiously and peers off. He sees Roxana with a start and a thrill of pleasure)' Hephestion! (Hephestion goes as if to look. Alexander lays a hand upon him and keeps him back) Keep from sight — It is a lonely maid — she comes this way. Roxana. '(Calling again off up r.) Eury- locus ! Alexander. She's like a wood nymph — gliding through the trees. She comes this way — keep back — Hephestion! She's beautiful! She is more beautiful than any woman that I ever saw ! — Out of sight! (He withdraws Hephestion with him out of sight behind a tree, and peers out keeping Hephestion back, as Roxana enters over the top of the hill. She stops and looks about listening, as if she had heard something. She comes down and moves l. c, looking off and calling in a half- hesitating way) Roxana. (Calling off l.) Eurylocus! (Alexander waves Hephestion back out of sight r. Hephestion disappears. Alexander steps out r. c, and stands looking at Roxana. She 20 THE CAPTIVE turns and sees him — stifles a cry — and stands gazing at him in startled zvonderment. A long pause; they stand looking at each other. With Alexander it is almost a case of love at first sight.) Alexander. (Gently) Be not afraid Roxana. (Still staring at him) You startled me — I Alexander. I will not harm you. Roxana. You must be a Greek. Alexander. I'd rather be your friend — Could I be that and be a Greek? Roxana. You are a Greek, I'm sure ! Alexander. And is it such a dreadful thing to be a Greek? Roxana. I never saw a Greek before. Alexander. Indeed? That's strange — and yet my case is stranger still — For I have travelled very far — I've visited a hundred peoples each with a different name Roxana. You look too young. It is not easy to believe that you could do so much. Alexander. Well, I have travelled as I said — and yet I cannot swear I ever met a maid like you before. ^ Roxana. I dare say we are different from the Greeks, but we're no different from the Sogdians, or the Mallians, or the Arians. Alexander. Indeed? How are your people called? Roxana. I am a Bactrian. Alexander. A Bactrian? And this great city that lies in view from the knoll — how is that called ? Roxana. That is Bactra — but it is not great. Alexander. Ah? Not great? Roxana. (Suspiciously) How came you here THE CAPTIVE 21 and why have you come? — if you are ignorant of our town and all concerning it? Alexander. Why have I come? I'm afraid you wouldn't believe me if I told you that. Roxana. Why would I not believe you — if yon told the truth? Alexander. The truth is sometimes very dim- cult to tell. My mission here, yoU see, is a sort of secret one. If you would know my secrets, — first you must tell me some of yours. (Roxana looks at him with groining suspicion) — What is your name? Roxana. {Not answering him) I think I under- stand why you are here, alone. You ran away from the battle — you are one of those the panic seized. Alexander. What battle was that? Roxana. I know Darius hired many Greeks to fight for him against the Macedonian. Alexander. Those Greeks were traitors — and so they met their death. They merited no mercy and Alexander showed them none. Roxana. Alexander is a monster ! Alexander. Indeed? Why do you think that? Roxana. Wliat is he else? Alexander. I've heard he was a mild and gener- ous man — a young man, too — and now he thinks himself a conqueror and means to rule all Persia as a wise and mighty king. Roxana. He is not yet and he will never be our conqueror. When he attacks the Mallians — they'll capture him alive and put him in a cage. And if I see him there I will not pity him. Alexander. Poor Alexander ! Roxana. They say he has no mercy now for any one. The sight of all the blood he's spilled has maddened him. 22 THE CAPTIVE Alexander. Well — now I promise I will tell him every word that you have said. Roxana. (Aghast) Tell him? You?! Alexander. It may be you will make him mend his monstrous ways. Roxana. You're jesting! Alexander. No. I am on my way to join the Macedonians. Roxana. Oh, you're baser, then, than I sup- posed you were ! Alexander. I would not have you think too ill of me. for I think well of you. Roxana. I'm sure you only meant to startle me when you pretended you would go among our enemies. Alexander. What would you have me do? Can I stay here? Roxana. I think you would be welcome in our town, if you went boldly to the gates and offered your sword against the Macedonians. Tell them truthfully you ran away from the battle because the panic seized you — and Alexander. No panic ever seized me and I did not run away. Roxana. You did not run away? Alexander. No. Nor did I ever fight against the Macedonians. The monstrous Alexander has always been my friend. Roxana. (Proudly) Then you are not welcome here ! — There lies the way to Babylon ! Alexander. (Playfully) Since I've seen you, I have no wish to go away alone. Roxana. You are an enemy. I have but to warn my people who are near and nothing then could save your life. — Now go. Alexander. You're full of spirit — Tell me your name? — (Roxana eyes him defiantly, then she edges off a little — giving a szvift glance about as if prepar- THE CAPTIVE 23 ing to run. Alexander divines her thought in- stantly) Don't run away ! {He doesn't move. She looks at him, dominated by Jiis voice, but still ready to run) I'd have to stop you. I never fail to catch an enemy who ran. Don't try to run away. Roxana. (Alarmed) You will not let me go? Alexander. Not yet. There are some things that I would ask you first. Roxana. You are a coward then and I despise you ! If I were a man I'd kill you where you stand ! Alexander. I'm glad you are no man, but if you were, I wouldn't fear you half so much as I do now. Roxana. (Scornfully) Indeed! Alexander. Suppose I let you go? How could I be sure you would not warn the soldiers of the town ? Roxana. I'd tell them — yes, I would ! Your fears are right. Alexander. You see — And they could follow me- — they'd trace my flight — and they might catch me, too. Roxana. It would not take them long — they have swift horses. Alexander. Well then — How can I let you go?— You see I like you very much — I meant to treat you kindly. I said I would not harm you — you remem- ber? — That was a promise, and if you knew mi better, you would know I never break my word. Roxana. Well ? Alexander. (Playfully — Roxana gazes at him through this speech — frightened, half fascinated and yet defiant) Did I promise you I would not carry you away with me? No — And now you seem to force me to it. Perhaps you'd like to go with me, in spite of all you've said? I'd take you as a price- less gift to Alexander. 'T would please him to see your eyes flash up — as they flash at me now. And you could tell him all the flattering things you think 24 THE CAPTIVE of him. 'Twould do him good. Tell him, about the Mallians — how they mean to put him in a cage. Your lips give to those things so sweet a sound, I'm sure it would delight our Alexander's ears. Shall I take you? Tell me ? Roxana. You will have to bind me first and carry me by force. You cannot take me far ! I'm sure you will be caught and killed before the sun goes down. Alexander. I would gladly take the risk, — for Alexander's sake — But still I would not wish to bind you and use force. I'd rather serve you than offend you. (Roxana looks at him defiantly. He pauses, moves away a little, thinking, then looks at her quizzically) — Suppose I leave you as I found you and ride away as swiftly as I can? — Would you consider that a kindness? — and would you scorn me less than you do now? (Roxana give's him a quick, searching look, then looks dozvn. He pauses a mo- ment, then speaks more gently and tenderly — going to her) — Answer me — (She gives a little nod of her head without looking up) — Well, you are free to go. I will not stop you now. (She starts across in front of him without looking at him) One moment. (She stops) I'd rather that your people did not know you saw me here. It would alarm them and it might do more. The soldiers might pursue me — and well — they might go too far and Alexander mis^ht have to kill them. Roxana. Alexander is many hundred miles away from here — in Babylon. Alexander. Is he so far away? Roxana. You could not hope to reach him. Alexander. Then I would have to turn and fight Roxana. They would kill you — that is all. Alexander. Well — even so — I'd rather they should not do that — unless you wish it very much? THE CAPTIVE 25 (Roxana turns and looks at him slowly.) Roxana. I will not tell them. Alexander. That's very generous — to treat an enemy so — a coward, too, that you despise. Roxana. I do not think you are a coward. Alexander. Ah? Roxana. And I am sorry you are bound to be our enemy and fight for such a bloody king as Alex- ander — Farewell. Alexander. I think that you and I will meet again — when I come back with Alexander. (She straightens herself and gives him a quick look of dc'~ance.) Oh, yes, since you will not let me take you to him, I'll have to bring him here to you. Roxana. When Alexander marches East he'll march to battle with the Mallians. And you and I will never meet again. Alexander. (She makes a move to go) Before you go, there's another favor I would ask — It's very little — just one word — that I would like to carry with me on my journey — -I'd like to know your name. (Roxana looks at him, then looks away, then shakes her head zvith firmness. Alexander goes to her) You will not tell me ? (She shakes her head) No? Very well. (He takes her hand. She turns on him, gives him an indignant look, drazvs her hand away and runs out r. 1 e. Alexander looks after her a moment in admiration, until she is supposed to be hidden from his sight, then he goes quickly to the top of the hill, calling as he goes to top of the hill) Hephestion! Hephestion ! (Hephestion joins him on the hill) Look Hephestion ! Look ! See where she goes !— Ah ! She's gone — Hephestion, did you see her well? Is she not wonderful? (Clitus, Amyntas, Polymon and other soldiers appear l.) This day shall be a day of fete in ages yet to come. And on this spot I'll build a glorious temple, of 26 THE CAPTIVE gold and alabaster — a monument to Venus and the Gods of Love ! Your King at last has found his conqueror ! — And now to horse ! Curtain. END OF ACT I. SCENE I. SCENE II The scene represents the same spot as before — ■ the principal change being that a canopy tent is erected l. This is Alexander's tent and is so constructed that it has in front a raised plat- form with a throne chair on it over zvhich is rigged a panoply. Behind this is the tent proper zvhich is enterd by an opening below platform. The materials of the tent are rich Oriental stuffs and the tent poles, etc., are richly sculptured and gilded. At the rise of the curtain, a number of royal slaves are busy finishing the erection of the tent, carrying rugs, seats, golden boivls, etc., etc., into it — making it ready for Alexander's occupancy. Brasidas, a rotund and ruddy old Macedonian captain, is in charge of the opera- tions. Several royal Guards and Attendants in rich costumes hold stations about the stage. Two or three Macedonian Officers in full armor are on the knoll, looking off up r., in the direc- tion of the city and making comments in an un- dertone. A couple of soldiers stand guard at the entrance to the hut r., and below them r., are four or six soldiers looking dusty and heated from exertion who have in charge tzvo or three THE CAPTIVE 27 Persian women as captives. These stand shrinking from the soldiers who have them in charge. Meanwhile from the distance, on all sides, are heard confused noises and clamor. Four slaves enter l., bearing a heavy roll of rugs which they place down before the platform and start to untie. Two other slaves have brought a long narrow rug which they spread out through the doorzvay. Another slave with a pole in his hand goes about the outside of the canopy straightening the stuff. Another slave with a gold pitcher enters the tent and, later, comes out again. Brasidas. {Growling at them all) Don't go to sleep! Make haste I say! (The slaves begin talking to each other, giving directions where to place things. Brasidas roars at them) Silence! Silence! If any words are to be spoken here, I, Brasidas, will speak them ! (A Soldier comes to him from r.) Soldier. Captain- Brasidas. (Turning savagely) Well— what now. Soldier. Here are some women captives. Brasidas. More women ? Humph ! Some more scarecrows, I suppose ? Soldier. That is for you to say. Brasidas. Just so. That is for me to say. No one here can even say say that a woman is ugly. I, Brasidas, must tell them. No one can show a slave where a tent-peg is to go — where a hole is to be dug in the ground. I, Brasidas, must tell them. And so while other officers ride prancing steeds through a captured town and plunder houses and ravish lovely maids, — I, Brasidas, must spend my time swearing 28 THE CAPTIVE at slaves, or peering into the faces of old women. That is the reward I get for dancing Alexander on my knee when he was a boy and" teaching him the art of war. (Brasidas looks at women and signifies that they are ugly) (Diphilos enters l., and greets Brasidas. He carries a wine-skin slung from his shoulder.) Diphilos. Ho ! Brasidas ! What is wrong with you ? Brasidas. What is wrong with me ? I'll tell you what is wrong! Diphilos. Well? Brasidas. I'll tell you— (Seeing wine-skin) No. my tongue is dry as leather — I cannot tell you— unless by chance there's a drop or two left in your wine-skin ? Diphilos. Have what you will. (He undoes his wine-skin and hands it to Brasidas) Brasidas. Ho! You are not Diphilos, but the god of plenty! (He drinks and utters a deep sigh of satisfaction) Ha-a-a-! An excellent god he is, too, as you will live to learn — when you're as old and as wise as I am. (He drinks again and re- peats his sigh of satisfaction) Ha-a-a-a ! (He hands back the zvine-skin to Diphilos) Diphilos. Now, what is wrong? Brasidas. Why now — nothing is wrong. Diphilos. (Looking r.) What are these women ? Brasidas. That's true !— the women!— (To soldier's) Away with them [—(Soldiers lead women off Right) Diphilos. What is the meaning of this proce- dn re ? Brasidas. There is a certain woman who should be in this town. Alexander once laid eyes on her — how or when— I may not say. The question re- solves itself to this: we must find her. THE CAPTIVE 29 Diphilos. What is her name? Brasidas. We know not. Diphilos. What is her condition? Brasidas. Again, we know not. But she is young and she is beautiful — at least so Alexander described her. The order was that all women cap- tives should be brought before me and when I find one who might pass for young and beautiful, I keep her for Alexander to inspect. Diphilos. And have you found her? Brasidas. How can I tell? I have some half a dozen or so who are not bad to look at. We will see what Alexander says. Diphilos. Where are those beauties then? Brasidas. They are here, inside. (He indicates hut) Diphilos. By all means, let me see them! Brasidas. I do not boast of them — but you may see them, if you like. Come. (Exeunt Brasi- das and Diphilos into hut r) (Two soldiers, Polymon and Kainos, enter r., carrying Evadne on a shield between them.) Kainos. Here is the King's tent. Polymon. Well, then, place her down. (They set her down and she stands, supporting herself on Polymon's arm) How does your ankle now? (Evadne goes to walk a step or tzvo and limps) Evadne. It hurts me to stand. — Must I stand? Polymon. You shall sit here. Kainos. (Taking hold of her) Sit here ! (They both help her to sit) Polymon. Keep your hands off her — I say ! She is mine ! Kainc x .r. Polymon. My right comes first! Kainos. I seized her first and I mean to keep her. 30 THE CAPTIVE Kainos. I will not give her up. (He goes to lay Jiis hand upon her) Polymon. (Putting hand to sword) Hands off! I say ! Rrasidas. (Who has entered from hut, followed by Diphilos) Ho! What's this? " Katnos. I seized her first. Now, Polymon would c 1 aim her ! Polymon. And I'll make good my claim! Brasidas. Stand back, both of you ! This must be as the King wills, and I, Brasidas, will judge of it. (To Evadne) Stand up! How dare you sit in my presence? Evadne. (Eyeing Brasidas coyly) You needn't roar so ! I know you wouldn't harm me ! Brastdas. (Roaring) Don't be too sure! Evadne. Oh — I'm sure you have a kind heart — though you do roar at me. Brasidas. No nonsense ! Stand up ! Evadne. But I hurt my ankle — see, this one — it pains me to stand on it. See how it's swollen. (Brasidas looks at her feet admiringly. Then he exchanges glances knowingly with Diphilos and coughs. Then he glances back at Evadne with growing interest. She looks up at him, sidezvays, indicating Polymon) He didn't treat me as you do. Brasidas. I didn't know about your ankle. Evadne. Now you speak gently. I like you better. I will do whatever you bid me. (She goes to rise — pretends to be in pain — turning to Poly- mon) — Your arm, please. (Polymon goes to move fonvard. Brasidas intercepts him, in a thundering voice) Brasidas. Stand back! — (He goes to support Evadne. She takes hold of his arm and gets close to him) Evadne. (Smiling up at him) Oh — thank you. I knew you had a kind heart. THE CAPTIVE 3 1 Brasidas. (Glancing down at her) You are young and you have a certain something — but the question is, are you beautiful? Evadne. (Pretending to be offended) Oh! (She leaves go of Brasidas's arm, and throws a glance at Polymon) Brasidas. What say you, Diphilos? (Diphilos answers with a shrug) She is not precisely beauti- ful. But still it is a nice question. Under the cir- cumstances — (He looks over at Polymon and Kainos) I withhold my judgment. (To Evadne) What is your name? Evadne. Evadne. Brasidas. I am Brasidas. You have the good fortune to please Brasidas. Come with me. Polymon. Brasidas — I claim her and I will have her. Kainos. My claim is first! Brasidas. Silence ! When the time comes, who shall say that Brasidas has no claim? Evadne, come with me. (He offers his arm, which she takes with a half-smiling, half reluctant glance at Poly- mon) Come, Diphilos. (Brasidas with Evadne on his arm, starts toward hut, accompanied by Diphilos) (A flare of trumpets sounds out from r., and Guards enter over knoll in full armor carrying lances and clear the stage.) Guards. (As they clear stage) Make way! Alexander comes ! Make way for Alexander ! (Some more Soldiers and Officers enter over knoll and r., and stand to one side, working up en- trance for Alexander. Music plays. Trum- pet flares again and Alexander enters on horse- back over top of hill, clad in full armor, with 32 THE CAPTIVE helmet and high white plumes. He rides down hill and stops before his tent. Hephestion and' another officer enter also on horseback on the knoll, where they dismount and their horses are led off by soldiers. More of the body companions, on foot, enter by way of hill and stand drawn up there, while others enter R., decorating stage. One or two high officers en- ter from r v and approach Alexander who turns his horse towards them. Hephestion and the other officer after dismounting come down to l., of Alexander. He addresses them still on horseback.) Alexander. Peucestas, take your regiment at once into the city and relieve Erygius who guards the palace. There is to be no plunder and no des- truction of property. {Exit Peucestas l.) Leon- natus, send a messenger to Coenus who is in com- mand at the Northern gates. His men are to re- main outside the walls. (Exit Leonnatus r.) Well, Menides, you come from Ptolemy? Menides. The foragers report that the way to the East is barren and impassible. Alexander. 'Tis well. Return to Ptolemy. Let him camp and rest his men. (Exit Menides l. Alexander — To Eumenes, his secretary) Eumenes, go into the tent and write out messages — one for Philotas, who commands our forces to the South, and one to Craterus, who is moving North against the Sogdians. Tell them the King of Bactra took his men from here ten days ago and started South to join the Mallians. Tell them that Bessus was here in Bactra less than one week ago. Let them seek for a trace of him. Have messengers in readiness. (Exit Eumenes into tent l. Alex- ander dismounts from his horse, which is led off THE CAPTIVE 33 by attendants. All the officers have withdrawn now, with the exception of Hephestion) Hephestion, — come look at me. Do I look happy now ? Hephestion. I think you do, and yet I marvel at it. Alexander. When we learned that Oxyartes had gone away ten days ago and taken with him all his men you thought that maiden had betrayed us. That is what you mean? Hephestion. It was eleven days ago you met her on this spot and let her go back freely to the town. The following day the King and all his men fled hastily to the South. {He ends with a shrug, as much as to say "the conclusion is obvious") Alexander. You know she gave her word to me that she would not tell she saw me here? Hephestion. I wish you'd never met that maid. Alexander. Never met her ! Would you rob me of the purest joy that I have ever known ! I love her better now than when I left her here. I trusted her and I be 1 ieved her word. Remember tint. Hephestion Hephestion. How can you think she did not break her word? Alexander. Have we not proof that Bessus was here five days ago? Hephestion. Well ? Alexander. Well — what if I am sure that he was also here eleven days ago — the day we came? Hephestion. Ah ? Alexander. Think you, if a woman broke her word and caused the King to flee, that Bessus would have lingered here six days, without defence, expecting our attack ! ? Hephestion. You are right ! She did not tell ! Alexander. I burn to know what she will say when she knows who I am. She thinks of Alexander as some hideous monster, who reeks with blood, 34 THE CAPTIVE and crunches human bones to satisfy his appetite. (He turns and calls to attendants) Where's Brasi- clas? (A soldier on guard of hut opens door and calls inside to Brasidas) Soldier. (Calling) Brasidas! — The King! Brasidas. (Inside hut) I am here! I come! — (He comes out of hut) Alexander. Ho, Brasidas! — Approach! Well? Brasidas. i\ll has been done exactly as you com- manded. The women have passed before me and I have judged them with a kindly eye. Alexander. You have kept apart the young and beautiful ? Brastdas. I've been most careful, 1 Alexander. (Intcrruting) Enough! Is there not one more beautiful than all the rest? Brasidas. Alexander, when you are as old as I you'll learn that such questions cannot be answered yes or no. The matter is delicate — there is the ques- tion of taste. Alexander. Enough! Let the women come out one by one and lead them this way beyond the hill. Brasidas. Very good. (He goes to hut and gives order in undertone to Guards before going in) Alexander. Hephestion — this way — stand here before me. I must see and not be seen. (He turns and calls a guard) Perdiceas — come — stand here beside Hephestion. (Perdiceas stands above Hephestion facing hut. They arc about c, a little up stage. Alexander stands beside them, shielding himself so that he cannot be seen) So! — Oh. Hephestion — my heart is thumping, — as it did when first I went to battle, and waited by my father's side to hear the trumpets sound, before we charged the enemy. (The first girl appears in door of hut) Hush — (Alexander leans forward with expectancy Then he shakes his head and whispers to Hephes- tion) She is pretty, too. But oh, how different! THE CAPTIVE 35 (The first one is accompanied by one of the soldiers on guard at the hut. She passes up across back of stage and out of sight l., over knoll. The other five follozv her out, and the other soldier brings up the rear. Alexander shows growing impatience, as each one disappoints his expectation. After the last one, Brasidas appears and comes to Alexander) Is that all ? Brasidas. The one you seek is not among them ? Alexander. Is there not another — more beauti- ful than these? Brasidas. There is one other Alexander. Ah ! Brasidas. She's different from the rest. Alexander. Hephestion! You hear! (To Brasidas) How is she different? Brasidas. Well, she's not exactly what I'd call — another might think her so — and you yourself might possibly — that is, if you saw her at a distance, — you might think so too. Alexander. Think what? Brasidas. Strictly speaking, I mean, she is not beautiful. Alexander. Not beautiful ! Brasidas. But she has a certain something about her — a certain sly way that makes her very pleasing. Alexander. Have a care, Brasidas ! Brasidas. I meant no offense to your taste, Alexander, — if she be the one ,you seek, I cannot blame you. The fact is, I meant to ask your per- mission to keep her for myself. Alexander. Let me see this maid — bid her come forth. (Alexander goes again behind Hephestion and Perdiceas. Brasidas goes to door of hut, then stops and turns back a step) Brasidas. That reminds me — I told Evadne — her name is Evadne. J 36 THE CAPTIVE Alexander. (Sounding the name and thinking if it fits with his idea of Roxana) Evadne!? Brasidas. She begged me to take her before Alexander. There's something she would ask. Alexander. It is not she, Hephestion. My un- known maid would never ask to go before the mon- ster — nor beg a favor of him. Brasidas. She says she is the companion of King Oxyartes' daughter, the Princess Roxana. Alexander. (With a start) The Princess Roxana? Brasidas. It is of her she would speak and also of an old man named Eurylocus. Alexander. (With a shout) Eurylocus! (To Brasidas) Let me see this Evadne! Bring her forth quickly.. (Brasidas goes into hut — To Hep- hestion) Eurylocus ! — That is the name she called when first she came upon us here, " Eurylocus " — you remember how she called, " Eurylocus ! " (Brastdas brings Evadne front hut. He goes to support her.) Brasidas. (To Evadne) Lean on me. Evadne. My ankle is better now — thank you — I can go alone. (As she comes out, Alexander stands shielded a little by Hephestion, so as not to be seen in case Evadne should prove to be Roxana, after all. But he is convinced of the contrary and as soon as he catches a glimpse of her he turns away l., thinking.) Alexander. (As he moves l., thinking) Rox- ana? Eurylocus? Roxana? — (Brasidas meanwliilc brings Evadne dozen r. c. Alexander turns and goes toward her decidedly. To Evadne) I am THE CAPTIVE 37 Alexander, the conqueror of Persia and your Em- peror. Answer me what I ask truthfully — your life depends upon it — (Evadne looks on him in azve) Your princess — Roxana — what is she like? Is she beautiful ? Evadne. She is more than beautiful. Alexander. Can you remember if she ever came to wander in these woods? Evadne. She came here often Alexander. Dressed in simple garb? Evadne. 'Twas so she came to gather herbs with old Eurylocus. This is his hut. Alexander. (With elation) Roxana! the daughter of a King! — (Turning to Evadne) Where is she now? Speak? Where is Roxana? Evadne. She sent me this morning on some errands. I was much delayed. And then your sol- diers came and seized me. Alexander. This morning, then, Roxana was in Bactra? Evadne. She may have gone with Eurylocus. Alexander. Gone where? Evadne. I cannot say. Into the woods some- where — or to the mountains. (Leonnatus, who went away earlier in the scene, lias now returned with fovo other officers,- — Cleon and Aristomenes. They stand near the tent, waiting to report to Alexander. He now turns to them and gives orders like a wJiirl- wind.) Alexander. Hephestion — give orders to our cavalry — let them scour the woods and fields in all directions, North, South, East and West ! Let them find Roxana! Go! (Hephestion goes out l.) Leonnatus, let the Thessalian foot be sent into the mountains — let them cover every foot of ground 38 THE CAPTIVE where man can go, and bring Roxana to me — Go ! (Leonnatus exits) Cleon — go with all haste to Peucestas at the Palace. Let him search every room and passage, the temples and the vaults and find Roxana! Go! (Exit Cleon r.) Aristomenes, — let messengers be sent to all our generals who command at the gates of the city ! Let proc- lamations be posted in every street that Roxana must be brought to us. The fate of the city depends upon it. Go! (Exit Aristomenes) Brasidas. Alexander — what shall be done with Evadne ? Alexander. Let her be near at hand. I will speak further with her. (While Alexander is speaking, Clitus enters l., looking dusty and travel-worn. He is follozved by tzvo or four soldiers zvho also look dusty. They remain l., while Clitus advances to Alexander. When Alexander finishes speaking, Brasidas leads Eadne back to the hut and Clitus addresses Alexander.) Clitus. Alexander Alexander. Ah Clitus ! You come from Cra- terus? What news? Clitus. You have won a great victory ! Alexander. Ah ! Clitus. We met the Sogdians four days ago. They made a fierce resistance but we defeated them. We hold their towns to the North and they acc?pt you as their Emperor. Alexander. Come to my tent and tell me more. (He stops at entrance of tent) What of Bessus? Have you news of him? Clitus. No. Alexander. Ah. Then he, too, has gone South. Come. (Exeunt Alexander and Clitus into tent L.) THE CAPTIVE 39 (A Soldier enters r., calling Brasidas.) Soldier. (Calling) Brasidas! Brasidas !- Brasidas. (At door of hut) Who calls? (Dip- hilos follozvs him from hut) Soldier. Roxana is found ! Brasidas. Where is she? Soldier. Two of Lagus's soldiers discovered her in the woods. They have brought her here. (He points r.) Brasidas Ah ! Soldier. (Calling off r.) This way — This way! Brasidas. (To Diph-ilos) Come forward, Diphilos. You shall see the paragon. (A Persian Woman is led in r., by two Soldiers. A third soldier — the one who spoke to Brasidas before — also enters with her, walking before the soldiers on the down-stage side, so that the audience does not get sight of the woman till she reaches r. c, and the soldiers drop back. Then it is seen that she is rather an ordinary looking woman of about thirty, wearing coarse and soiled garments and rather slovenly in general appearance. Brasidas gives a start, and stares at her in comic amazement) — Are you Roxana? Woman. So I am called. Brasidas. You are the daughter of Oxvartes, the King? Woman. I am the daughter of Biliphenes, the sausage seller. (Brasidas glares at her a moment with comic scorn and offended dignity — as if he had been made the butt of some monstrous joke. Diphilos bursts out laughing.) 40 THE CAPTIVE Brasidas. (With a savage roar) Out of my sight. Idiots ! Take her away ! Take her to Biliphenes and tell him to watch her close or Brasidas may fall in love with her ! Diphilos. (Laughing) Roxana ! — Sausage- seller ! Brasidas. I've lost my patience with these Per- sian hags ! (The Princess Roxana and tzvo of her attendants, who are dressed like Evadne are brought over the hill by an Officer and Soldiers) They're only fit to harness to a cart and draw our burdens with ! If I were King, I'd let them feel the lash awhile, Roxanas, or no Roxanas ! — Here are some more — I'll waste no gentle words on them. (To Officer) What are these? Officer. We found these three at prayer in the temple. Brasidas. At prayer — were they? What are their names? Officer. We could not make them speak. Brasidas. Why didn't you beat them? Officer. Peucestas ordered me to take them here to Alexander's tent. When they heard that, one of them, seized up a sword and attempted to end her life. To keep her safe I tied her hands. This is the one. (Indicating Roxana) Brasidas. (To Roxana) Stand forward that I may look at you. (She does not move) You're obstinate — are you ? (He takes hold of her and pulls her rather roughly doivn r. of c.) Stand forward, I say ! — And so you tried to take your life, did you? Do you think Alexander can't take your life soon enough, if he has no better use to put you to?-— Answer me — Sharp ! I've not time to waste ! Who are you? Officer. She seems to be a person of some quality- Brasidas. I want none of her quality — she's ob- THE CAPTIVE 4I stinate as a mule. (To Roxana) — Do you want to save yourself a beating? Roxana. I expect no mercy from savages. Brasidas. Oh ho ! Roxana. Whether your King wills it or not, you cannot make me live against my wish. I scorn his power and his cruelty. You may tell him so. (Hephestion enters l., as Roxana is finishing. He stops short, utters an ejaculation and stands gazing at her a moment, as he recognizes her.) Brasidas. (Swelling with rage and impatience) By Jupiter ! I will tell him ! I'll make you trem- ble, too ! Hephestion. (Coming forward and checking him) Brasidas! Brasidas. (Turning) What now? Hephestion. (With a gesture of command, beckoning Brasidas to him) Brasidas! (Brasidas goes to him. Hephestion seises him b\ the arm and 7vhispcrs to him quickly. Brasidas gives a smothered ejaculation of surprise, and glances tow- ards Roxana. In a low voice) Out of sight be- hind the trees. Be quick. (Hephestion throws a look at Roxana and rushes into the tent) Brasidas. (Turning back, with change of man- ner. To Roxana) I am Brasidas. Have no fear of me. I admire beauty such as yours. Come this way. We sha'l see what we shal see. (Exeunt i; Brasidas with Roxana, her two attendants and soldiers) (Alexander enters from tent, followed bv Hep- hestion, Clitus, Eumenes.) Alexander. (To Hephestion, who carries a silk scarf) Keep it close about her eyes until I 42 THE CAPTIVE give the sign. (Exit Hephestion r.) Let the guard be drawn up and bid the trumpets sound. (Alexander goes to throne) (The Guards fie in and are drawn up on either side of the throne, the attendants are drawn up, too, making Alexander the centre-piece of a stun- ning tableau. Roxana is led in r., by Hep- hestion. The scarf is about her head and covers her face completely. She is followed by the Soldiers who lead in her two attend- ants — remaining r., to compete the picture. Hephestion leads Roxana c, facing the throne, and stands ready to remove the scarf. At a sign from Alexander the trumpets flare out suddenly and exultingly. Then all is still, rvhile Hephestion speaks.) Hephestion. O mighty Alexander — King of Macedonia — Captain-General of Greece, great Em- peror of Persia and Conqueror of the universe — here is a maid who scorns your mercy and defies your cruelty. Will you be pleased to look at her and to command what punishment befits her case? (The trumpets flare out again. Hephestion re- moves scarf from Roxana's head and drops back. Roxana's head is boived, her eyes are closed — she is nerving herself for the ordeal which confronts her. There is a moment or two of silence. Alexander gases at her ex- pectantly and rapturously. She does not look. Alexander rises slowly, gazing at her, then he speaks her name quietly and reassuringly. ) Alexander. Roxana — (She starts with a thrill, as if the voice and the name went through her. She looks up, sees the soldiers and her eyes follow them THE CAPTIVE 43 to the throne in a sort of dazed way. She sees Alexander and stares at him blankly in stunned amazement. Alexander comes dozen the steps, meeting her gaze. Gently) I am Alexander — (Business for Roxana) Have no fear, Roxana. I've come again, you see. I kept my word and you kept yours. (She makes a movement — He sees her hands are tied and goes to untie them) You kept your word — I know you did. And you shall see I'll prove my gratitude. (He unties her hands) Roxana. If you are !ess a monster than I thought you were — if you have any kindness in your heart — don't look at me — don't speak to me. Bind my hands again and send me off among your captive slaves. Alexander. I mean to make you happy, if I can. Roxana. Make me happy? You? I am no plaything and I'd rather die than bow my head be- neath your yoke. Alexander. There is no need to bow your head — and why should you think of dying? The sun still shines as brightly as it did — the. trees and fields are just as green — the world is young and fu'.l of life and hope. Are you not also young — and beautiful? Why should you think of death? Your father is a king. His royal blood flows in your veins and you were destined to become a queen. Roxana. No matter what you say or do, you car not blind me to the truth. You are Alexander. Alexander. My name is Alexander — yes — I'm not ashamed of it. Roxana. My father has an army and he will fight you to the death. Alexander. If I must go to battle with your father, there is no help for it. (Roxana goes to speak. Checking her) You need not answer now, for I will come and speak to you again — What ho I 44 THE CAPTIVE — my guards ! A chariot for the Princess Roxana, and my escort. (Exeunt some guards and attend- ants, as enter Leonnatus) Leonnatus. Alexander Alexander. Well ? Leonnatus. Ptolemy has seized upon a band of warlike Persians. They laid down their arms with- out a blow and said they came to fight for Alexander not against him. Their chiefs demand to be brought before you. Alexander. Send them here. — I will speak to them. (Leonnatus goes to l.) (Evadne is led doivn r., by Brasidas. She sees Roxana suddenly.) Evadne. Roxana ! Roxana. Evadne! (They embrace) (Bessus and Spitamenes are led in by Guards. The Guards remain l. Bessus and Spitamenes bow low to Alexander. As they come forzvard. Roxana recognises them. She gives a stifled cry. Alexander turns to her quickly — looks at her qucstioningly — then looks back at Bessus and Spitamenes.) Alexander. Roxana — do you know these men? Roxana. (Trembling and hesitating) I (Evadne has business touching Roxana's arm.) Bessus. (Interrupting) I am Tigranes and this is my cousin Bacurius. Alexander. (To Roxana) Why did you start? Roxana. I — I — -These men. — came in — I thought I — that they were friends of my father's Bessus. The Princess Roxana hesitates to tell you, O Alexander, that wc came here some months a( " and disappears in the ditch bc'oiv. 77: v; !' : rope is drawn up by the other, who disappears from view. After a minute, the First Persian who has been let down clambers into view over the rocks on stage. He gives a look back at rock then crouches out quickly l., over rocks. The storm gradually ceases and the stage grows a little lighter zvith the coming of dawn. ' Then a flare of trumpets, the noise of an approaching cavalry force is heard off l., not the convention- al patter of -wooden hoofs, but confused noises of armor, murmur of voices, tramping of horses, and, if possible, neighing of horses. Persian Guards reappear on the walls and look off l., THE CAPTIVE 99 with excitement — some disappear from walls hurriedly. Confused noises and excitement arc heard from town r., and Guards crowd the walls. (Clitus, Leonnatus, Peucestas and other Macedonian Officers and Soldiers enters l.) Clitus. There is no way that we can take the town without our towers and our battering rams. Leonnatus. The walls are built on solid rock. We cannot undermine them. Peucestas. We must scale them ! Clitus. We have no ladders. Peucestas. Some ladders were put upon the horses. They came up just now. Leonnatus. They will not reach half way. Clitus. Alexander will have to wait until the main army comes and brings the engines. Peucestas. 'Twill take five days at least before the engines come. Clitus. Then we must wait five days. Peucestas. .(Looking off l.) Sh! Alexander!— (Enter Alexander l., clad in full armor. An at- tendant follows him, carrying his shield and two javelins. Hephestiln and other Officers and soldiers follow him.) Alexander. I do not w^sh to waste your livr. in rashness, but I cannot wait until our heavy force arrives and brings us what we need to batter down these walls. Your courage must be tu ed to m if you would follow me and do as I command. Clitus. Our lives are nothing, Alexander! (Signs and shouts of assent from all) But you are our mighty King and all our hopes depend on you alone. Do not expose yourself to danger. ioo THE CAPTIVE Command us what to do and we will do it for you. (Shouts and approval from all) Alexander. I have sent two messengers into the town to Oxyartes. If he will surrender Bessus into my hands I still am ready to make peace with him. If he fails to surrender Bessus within one hour, he seals the doom of every one within the walls. Roxana is the only one who shall be spared — and I have vowed to the gods to hold her in my arms before the sun has set. I wait now for Oxyartes' answer. Clitus. How can we scale the walls until the ladders and the engines come? (Two ladders are brought in. Each is made of three smaller ladders bound together.) Alexander. Here are ladders. Clitus. (Despairingly) Two ladders !- Alexander. And if we had but one, — is there a Macedonian who would shrink to follow me upon it to those walls ? (Shouts : " No ! " " No ! " " we arc ready I " " Let us go! " etc.) (The barbarian Messenger who has been let dozen from the wall at opening of act comes out suddenly from behind rocks and flings himself on the ground before Alexander.) Messenger. O King! (General movement, Soldiers drawing szvords as if to kill him. Alexander checks them with a gesture.) Alexander. Whence come you? Speak! Messenger. I came over the walls to bring you this from the Princess Roxana ! THE CAPTIVE 101 Alexander. (Taking message from Barbarian) Roxana ! (He reads) "I told my father all — He refused to fight against you. He defied Bessus and Bessus has put him in chains. My father will be put to death to-morrow unless I marry Bessus. I love you. Roxana." (As Alexander finishes, Bessus appears upon the walls, clad in armor and looking proud and defiant. A sliout goes up from behind the walls.) Bessus. (On the wall) Alexander--] salute you— When you send messengers to beg for peace — know that I am King of all men here and messengers must come to me. Oxyartes is my slave ! I will show you how I treat your messengers, and if you send more, I will treat them likewise. I defy you and I spit on you! If you want Roxana, come and take her ! (As he finishes speaking, he disappears. The two Macedonian messengers are let down from the walls by ropes and hang suspended in the air. They arc dead and their bodies are bound hand and foot and the rope that they hang from apparently goes round their necks, but really is fastened from behind) (A great shout of rage goes up from the Macedon- ians. Alexander shouts his commands above the din and general confusion.) Alexander. (Shouts to his men) To the walls ! To the walls! Put up the ladders! (The ladders are put up against the ivalls. Alexander takes his shield and javelin from his attendant and starts to the ladder's) To the walls! Follow me! (The Soldiers try to restrain him and shout to him. Cli- tus, Peucestas and Leonnatus shoutings " Alex- 102 THE CAPTIVE ander — do not expose yourself!" "We will go!" "Alexander — no! Let us go!" Alexander pays no heed to them. He rushes to the nearest ladder and starts up it. The Officers and Soldiers crowd after him uttering great shouts of rage and fear for Alexander's life. Peucestas and Leonnatus are next behind him) {There is a brief fight from the top of the ladders with the Soldiers on the walls. Those in front of Alexander give way and he gains a footing on the walls — followed by Peucestas and Leonnatus. Those on the other ladder are still fighting, as both ladders crack and break and the Macedonians with great shouts of des- pair arc seen to totter and cling to the falling ladders — some of them dropping down into the ditch belozv. Lights out and change of set.) END OF ACT IV. SCENE I. SCENE II. Scene: Inside the walls of the Mallian fortress. The zvall runs from dozvn r. to up r. c. Down r., is a massive gate in the zvall — which can be burst open. A rocky ledge rises up l. c, zvith a temple of some sort on it. There is a large tree trunk r. c, on a rising mound. Time : Bright sunshine. Discovered: Alexander, Peucestas and Leon- natus are still on the zvalls — fighting zvith some Persians there. Dozvn belozv is a great crozvd of Persian Soldiers in a surging shouting mass. THE CAPTIVE 103 There arc great shouts from the Macedonians off r., and after a few moments, there are heavy poundings supposedly at the gate r. The din should be terrific — overwhelming. No word is spoken in tJiis scene — the effects and the progress of the fight being matters zvhich must depend to a great extent upon the construction of the set and rehearsals. After a moment's fighting on the walls — Alexander comes dozvn stone steps which lead to walls. He is followed by Leonnatus and Peucestas. The leading Persians are knocked back and recoil before the fierceness of Alexander's blows. Alexander and his two companions make their stand on the mound r. c, about the tree. There they resist onslaught after onslaught of the Persians. Leonnatus is the first of the three to fall. He is down l , side of the tree. Then Peucestas fails, and Alexander is left alone to meet the onslaught. Spitamenes attacks him and after a fierce struggle Alexander kills him, but is growing exhausted, himself — his foot slips and he sinks down on one knee, covering himself with his shield. A great shout goes up from the Per- sians who are about to rush on him in a mass, as Bessus gets in front of them and zvaves them back — shouting "He is mine!" Bessus rushes on Alexander while he is still down. Alex- ander manages to raise himself with greet effort and finally strikes Bessus dozvn. Just as the Persians zvith wild shouts start to over- whelm him — the gate r., is burst open and the Macedonian Phalanx zvith their lances and shields locked together in rozvs — rush in led by Hephestion and Clitus. Thcx szveep the 104 THE CAPTIVE Persians from the stage. There is a little scattered fighting here and there as more Mace- donians keep rushing in through the gates with great shouts of "Alexander!" " Alexander I " Clitus and Hephestion go to Alexander and support him as the crozvd of Macedonians presses round. Then as some Macedonians come back from l., with Persian captives — Roxana enters l. Before she enters there arc shouts of " Roxana! " " Roxana! " off l. Alex- ander comes down a little as Roxana enters. He is r. c. She comes on l., and stops l. c. These two stand a moment — looking at each other. Then Alexander opens his arms to her and calls " Roxana! " She rushes to his arms c. (Great shouts of triumph from all.) Picture and Curtain. J ( (0