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A ROYAL SLAVE. 
 
 An Original Romantic Drama, in Five Acts. 
 
 BY 
 
 CLARENCE BENNETT, 
 
 /\ll RigHts Re^se^r\/ec^ 
 
 Published by 
 CLARENCE BENNETT, 
 
 Springfield, Illinois. 
 
 V. 
 
85123 
 
 Two Cofcs Received 
 DEC 6 1900 
 
 ,/de^. (o, *^ oo 
 
 SECONOCOPY 
 ORDER OIVISiON 
 
 
CAST OF CHARACTERS. 
 
 EL AGUILA ("The Eaijle") The last of the Montezumas. 
 
 COUNT PEDRO MARTINEZ. The "mysterious El Capitan." 
 
 HU.WBOLDT AGASSIZ JONES. An American newspaper correspondent. 
 
 COL. CARLOS CASTELLO. An officer in the Mexican service. 
 
 PADRE DOMINGUS. Priest and physician. 
 
 JUAN ALVAREZ. An insane captive. 
 
 BERNAL ("El Alacran" — the Scorpion) Robber lieutenant. 
 
 PHILLIPPE ("El Matador"— the Cutter) Robber jjuard. 
 
 COUNTESS INEZ DE ORA. 
 
 ISADORA DE ORA. 
 
 ANNETTA. 
 
 BANDITS and SOLDIERS. 
 
 ACT 1. — Casa, or country seat of Countess de Ora, overlooking the Valley of 
 Mexico. 
 
 ACT II. — Scene 1: Wood in neighborhood of Casa de Ora. Scene 2: Mex- 
 ican plaza in first grooves. Scene 3: Interion of Padre's house. 
 
 ACT III. — Interior of Countess' other hacienda near Puebla, on the east coast 
 of Mexicn. 
 
 ACT IV. — Scene l: Interior of the prison-cave of El Capitan, near Puebla. 
 Scene 2: The Island of El Toro, by moonlight. 
 
 ACT v.— Same as Act III. Night. 
 
 CURTAINS. 
 
 Act 1, Carlos; act II, Pedro; act III, Jones; act IV, Carlos; act V. Pedro. 
 NOTE.— Padre can double Bernal; Carlos double Phillippe. 
 
 A Roynl Slnve— i. 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 
 
 ACT I. 
 
 SCENE. — Drop in 5. View of valley and distant City of Mexico at 
 sunset. Popoeatapetl in background. Scene to change with gauzes 
 to moonlight. Mexican house with verandah set i, 2 & 3. Low 
 walls, Gatec X stage at back. Practical fountain with circular 
 seat curb c. Water plants in fountain. Plants and flowers to dress 
 stage. Tropical wings and borders. COUNTESS R. c. on fountain 
 seat. PEDRO standing c. 
 
 INEZ. I hear, Count, that the dreaded El Capitan has surprised 
 another silver train in the Sierra Madre, and robbed it of nearly 
 half a million. 
 
 PEDRO. Indeed? He is a brave fellow at all events. It seems 
 strange that no one can capture him, or discover the secret of his 
 identity. 
 
 INEZ. It does indeed, senor. He has carried on his depredations 
 since I was a child, and yet no clue has been discovered that could 
 lead to his arrest. 
 
 PEDRO. He must be very wealthy by this time. 
 
 INEZ. It would stem so, seuor. Do you know there is a slight 
 romance incur family, connected with him? 
 
 PEDRO. Indeed, senora? I beg you will favor me with it — that 
 is, of course, if the story is not a family secret. 
 
 INEZ. A secret? By no means! At least, not from you, as you 
 will shortly be one of the family. But I should not like the story 
 to reach the ears of El Capitan, as it might attract liis alteution 
 rather unpleasantly to us, and awaken in him a desire to investi- 
 gate the mystery for himself, 
 
 PEDRO, (smiling) Have no fear, senora. 1 am good at keeuing 
 secrets. 
 
 INEZ. You must know, then, — to begin my story, — 1 once had 
 a sister, — I have never spoken of her to you She fell in love with 
 a young man named Juan Alvarez, of Pueola, between whose fam- 
 ily ana ours there had existed for years a deadly feud. He was the 
 last of his race, and on him my father centered all his enmity. 
 When he learned of the attachment between Alvarez and my sis- 
 ter Mercedes, he of course opposed the union most bitterly. But, 
 in spite of his opposition, Mercedes eloped with and married her 
 lover. 
 
 PEDRO. What became of them? 
 
 INEZ. My father was a man of iron, — he disowned Mercedes, 
 But despite his curses, they lived happily together for about three 
 years, when a child, — a daughter — was born to them. 
 
 PEDKO Your story is interesting, senora. Pray go on! 
 
 INEZ. Senor Alvarez had a vast treasure in gold ana jewels 
 which he had hiddeiV>iio one but himself knew where. Alarmed by 
 the frequent depredations of El Capilan, he had determined to se- 
 crete it in a more secure place, and on the very day he purposed 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 2 
 
 changing its hiding-place, he was waylaid and probably murdered 
 by El Capita II. 
 
 PEDRO. How do you know this? 
 
 INEZ. Our old peon, Aguila, who was very fond of my sister, 
 was with Senor Alvarez at the time, and, in defending him, was 
 severely wounded and left on the ground for dead; recovering, 
 however, he brought back the dreadful news. My sister, nearly 
 crazed by the death of her husband, not knowing where his trea- 
 sure wa«i hidden, exhausted her remaining resources in a fruitless 
 search fur him, and finally, driven to despair, she lost her reason 
 and disappeared. 
 
 PEDRO. But was the treasure never recovered? 
 
 INEZ. No senor. Meanwhile, I had married, at my father's 
 command, Senor Antonio de Oro, an old but wealthy banker of the 
 Capital. My father died; Isadora was born as the fruit of this 
 loveless marriage; then 8enor Antonio died and I was free again — 
 free! 
 
 PEDRO. But did you never try to find the treasure? 
 
 INEZ. Yes, senor. At my sisters' death, Senor Alvarez' haci- 
 enda and estates at Puebla remaining unsold, reverted to cur fam- 
 ily. I have searched there for it again and again, but always in 
 vain. I could gain no clue to its hiding-place— it is beyond my 
 finding. 
 
 PEDRO. Do you not suppose, senora, that your old peon, 
 Aguila, may know it? You say he was with Senor Alvarez when 
 he was murdered; might he not have made this Indian the repos- 
 itnry of the secret of the hidden treasure? 
 
 INEZ No, senor; he is true to our family and thoroug^hly hon- 
 est. He was so fond of my sister he would certainly have revealed 
 it to her. 
 
 PEDRO. This old peon seems ti> hold a strange position in your 
 family. He has been the uurse and confidant of three generations. 
 He seems devoted to your race. 
 
 INEZ He was the play-fellow aud friend of my father in his 
 boyhood, my sister s guarding spirit and mine, and now Isadora's 
 constant companion and protector He is ns devoted to her as a 
 faithful dog. I never had any love for tiim, but still I keep him 
 for his profound judgment and wisdom. His counsels have been of 
 great value at times. 
 
 PEDRO. His race rarely turns gray; but t'nough he is rugged as 
 an oak, his hair is whiie. 
 
 INEZ, The fever from his wound and the exposure made his 
 long hair fall out, and when it grew again, it was snowy wiiito. 
 
 PEDRO. He is a strange being. Humble, courteous, faithful to 
 your fami y; a peon, a slave, he still has the dignity ai\d bearing of 
 a king. 
 
 INJSZ- Because he is a king. He i^ the lineal descendant of the 
 Moutezumas, who < nee ruled Mexico. His kingly grace and bearing 
 he owes to the royal blood in his veins. 
 
 PEDRO, (looks off L. u. K.) Senora, there is the Senorita Isadora 
 and that Senor Castello. They seem very much absorbed in each 
 other's society. 
 
 INEZ (showing displeasure) Yes, I see. 
 
 PEDRO. You do not seem pleased at his constant attentions lo 
 your daughter. 
 
 INEZ. Not altogether, (crosses k 1 
 
 PEDRO. Nor am I! As you know, senora, I love the senorila, 
 your daughter, aud this fellow's interference is very annoying to 
 me. Who is lie anyway? 
 
 INEZ (half severely) He is my guest, senor. But curb your 
 jealousy; I promise you that I will see that you are not annoyed 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 3 
 
 further. She is your afflauced wife. You Iiave my promise — that is 
 enough. T have your interests at heart, senor. Leave her to me. 
 But come with me; I do not wish to meet tliem now. Come, (going 
 R. 2.) 
 
 PEDRO. Your wishes are commands to me, senora. (exeunt 
 INEZ and PEDRO R. 2. Enter ISADORA and (JARLOS through 
 gate L. u. E.) 
 
 ISA. (ioolcing at bouquet in hand) Senor Castello, you have 
 shown as good taste as a lady in the arrangement of flowers. I shall 
 treasure this as a token of your skill. 
 
 CAR Ah, senorita! I have been dallying here among the rosesi, 
 forgetting that I was only a soldier. But the order came this after- 
 uoou that calls me from this scene of happiness to duty. I must 
 leave tomorrow. 
 
 ISA. (looking up gravely) Oh, senor! You surely are not going 
 away so soon! 
 
 CAR. I must! You cannot dream how bright these days have 
 seemed to me; bright with the giory of vour presence, the sunshine 
 of your beautiful eyes, the music of your voice! They are a sweet 
 spell that will haunt my heart while I live. 
 
 ISA. Senor, brave men should not be flatterers. 
 
 CAR The words that spring to our lips when we kneel before 
 the Holy Mother, are not flattery, but devotion. Isadora, y<iu are 
 the saint shrined in my heart! You say I flatter; I answer, "I love 
 you!" 
 
 JSA. (shyly) Oh, Senor Carlos! 
 
 CAR. TeJl me. Isadora! May I hope? 
 
 ISA. (toying with bouquet) It is cruel, senor, to deceive those 
 who trust us! 
 
 CAR. Can't you believe me? 
 
 ISA. (gives him her hand) Yea, Senor Carlos. For our good padre 
 says, "Out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaketh!' 'And 
 if your eyes are mirrors of your heart, I am sure it is full of truth 
 and goodness! 
 
 CAR. (joyously) It is filled with both, for it is full of you! I 
 was but a plain honest soldier till I met you. And then, the world 
 seemed changed — the sunshine seemed brighter, the flowers sweet- 
 er, the songs of the birds more J03 ous that such a bright being as 
 you was in the world! 
 
 ISA. (coquettishly) How pleasant sounds the gurgle of the foun- 
 tain! 
 
 CAR. Ye-! It is singing to you, and that lends it music! (pause) 
 Little seu'^rita, can you love me? 
 
 ISA. Oh, if I but dared to believe you! 
 
 CAR. Why do you doubt me? I swear to you that you have 
 grown into my heart, till while that heart shall beat it will en- 
 shrine your image! There is no present joy, no future hope that 
 does not mirror your sweet face; and in my soul I would treasue 
 and g-uard your love always as a holy thing! 
 
 ISA. (coyly) Do you mean what you say? 
 
 CAR. Mean il! I have laid my heart at your feet; you may read 
 its truth in my eyes! 
 
 ISA. Hearts are false, and eyes, too, sometimes. 
 
 CAR. Why do you doubt rav?, Isadora? 
 
 ISA. (seriously) I do not doubt you, Carlos; I love you! If you 
 thirst for my love, the draught is yours— take me! Our hearts shall 
 throb in unison— our lives entwine fill death, my Carlos! 
 
 CAR. (claspihg her) Darling! If I were dying, your kiss upon 
 my lip^ would, liKe the wizard s fabled elixir, awake my drowsy 
 heart to love and life again! Are you happy now? 
 
 ISA. Yes, Carlos; always, with you! 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. ^ 
 
 CAR. And can you trust your future, your life, your happiness 
 to nae? 
 
 ISA, If uot, to whom can I ever trust them? You are my future, 
 my life, my joy! 
 
 CAR. Bless youi sweet lips for those words, (kisses her) 
 
 ISA. But, Carlos, are uot love and happiness like the sweet cerus 
 bloom— a thing of beauty born at eve to fade and die ere morn; a 
 thifig- too sweet to last? 
 
 CAR. Nay, trust me, dearest! Shrined in our souls, it will bloom 
 on forever; in hearts of truth, love is immortal! 
 
 ISA. Dear Carlos! How sweet it sounds »o call you by that name! 
 
 CAR. Sweet indeed, breathed by your lips! (kisses tier) I must 
 do as an honorable man should— I must tell your mother of our 
 love and ask her for her little girl. May I go to her now? 
 
 ISA. Yes, Carlos. 
 
 CAR. I cannot rest till I call you mine! Goodbye, little sweet- 
 heart! When 1 come back, I hope to bring you good news. Good- 
 bye! (exit R. u. E.) 
 
 ISA. He loves me! Oh, T am so happy! Dear, dear Carlos! Sweet 
 flowers, (toying with them) you were his gift! (kisses them) My 
 brave, strong, handsome lover! lam so proud of him— I love him 
 so! (slugs) "Will you love me always, darling. 
 Fondly, tenderly as now? 
 Wiien my eyes have lost their brightness. 
 
 When the silver's on my brow? 
 Will your kiss be just as tender, 
 
 Just as fond your strong- arms' fold; 
 
 And your voice as kind and gentle? — 
 
 Will you love me when I'm old?' 
 
 (she looks oTl. u. e j Here comes dear old Aguila! I must tell him! 
 
 (hides up L aiuid flowers. AGUILA enters c. from h. u., sets large 
 
 pulque jar by fountain and seats himself, Wiping perspiration away ) 
 
 AUU. The day is as hot as a fiend's breath! None but the Sun's 
 children dare stand before him today. I wonder where's my little 
 seuorita? \!y little nightingale should come forth when the stars 
 paep through the twilight's nurple curtains. (ISA. steals up be- 
 hind him and takes his head in her hands, kisses h'm on the hair.) 
 
 ISA. Who is it? 
 
 AGU. An angel! 
 
 ISA. (lau^hn,"-) Oh, no. papa Aguila— it's only me! 
 
 AGU. Well, I was rightl 
 
 ISA. Oh, no, you wasn't; you didn't know me! 
 
 AGU. Not know you, my beautiful! Does the bee know the flow- 
 er whose heart is full of sweetness? Whose ki-'S but yours ever 
 blesses my old white brow? And it touches it with a glory like the 
 sunlight on the snowy head of joiuler mountain— a crown more roy- 
 al than the one my fathers wore, there, atit-i feet! 
 
 ISA. (kneeling L. of him) You are a king to me, Aguila! 
 
 AGU. (sadly) No only a peon, a poor old slave; your old Aguila! 
 
 ISA. No; you are a Montezuma, a royal child of the Sun, and, 
 more than all, nay dear old papa! (pats his cheek playfully) 
 
 AGU. (moved) My darlin r child! (looking in her eyes) What 
 makes my little senorita's notes so glad and tender today? Is there 
 some singing joy making its nest amid the white blossoms of her 
 young heart? 
 
 ISA. (demurely, taking his hand between hers) i'apa Aguila, I 
 have never had a secret from you, and I must tell you this, the 
 dearest, sweetest secret of all! For I know that no one loves me as 
 you do — no one shares my joys and sorrows like you There is a joy 
 at my heart tonight! 
 
 AGU. I know what it is. I have read the hope in your bright 
 
aroor) 
 
 A ROYAL, SLAVE. ^ 
 
 eyes long ago— before you dared to own it to yourself. The Seoor 
 Castello is young, brave and tender, and my little mistress is fair, 
 sweet and gentle; and so your hearts turned toward each other like 
 the courses of the brooks that blend their pure tides in one chan- 
 nel. You love, and you are loved; and in that thought, as in an urn, 
 blossom the flowers of joy! 
 ISA. (with basliful joy, laying hpr cheek ajainst his hand) How 
 )0() you are, how wise! You know my heart before I do uiyselt! 
 A(i"U. Ah, my child! May yon never learn the bitter ]e-<soiis ot 
 sorrow that crush the hope oiit of youno- hearts! Would I might 
 shield you from it all— all! 
 
 ISA. Sorrow seems so tar away tonight! But should it ever come, 
 you will always be my fi-iend—y'ou will help me, will you not? You 
 will always love me, papa Affuila? 
 
 AGU. (clasping her) Ah, would 1 not, my child! As the palm loves 
 the singing brook i>urlingin its shadow, aiul bends lovingly and ten- 
 derly over its pure, deep heart, so do I love my little senorita! So 
 would I shelter her from the fierce heat of the Countess' an^jer, 
 from the mad hurricane of misfortune, thnugh it should rend my 
 wiriiered branches and lay my old trunk in ruin besi'ie her! 
 ISA Dear old Aguila! 
 
 AGU (rising and going- 1.. with her) Fear not, little <>ne! Should 
 trouble come, leaveail to old Aguila. Ke will win hack to yiu the 
 joy that shall live when he is'dust. Come, my l)rigliteye.s, corai.-! 
 (exeunt in house. JONKS appears at back, c. (rom i..) 
 
 JON. Well, by Jove! Thi.« is theneate-tl iiave seen in this coun- 
 try! A perfect earthly paradise. Paradise and the peri. Wliere's 
 the peri, I wonder? I'll reconnoitre, (writes in note-book) "Hacien- 
 da embowered in feathery palms, amid whose waving plumes fitful 
 gleams of tropic suulight steal, like bright fairies, laving their shin- 
 ing tresses in the murmuring fountains; chasing the roseate shad- 
 ows in and out among the bloom-laden bowers, kissing the perfume- 
 breathing lips of flowers as rarely beautiful and purely bright as a 
 saint's dream of heaven! (enter ANNETTA from house L., stands 
 watching JONES. 1 There! That will read well in the Herald. 
 ANN. Huenos Dias, Seuor! 
 
 JON. Ah, the peri, by Jove! Your servant, senorita! I hope I 
 don't intrude. I was coming down the pass, and seeing tliis beau- 
 tiful spot, could not help hiding from the heat in such a charming 
 place for a moment. 
 
 ANN. (courtesying) Oh, senor, I am sure you will be most wel- 
 come. The Countess' house is always open to visitors. I am sure 
 she will bH pleased to entertain the nice American gentleman. 
 
 JON. (fixing his collar, etc.) Ahem! And you, my pretty little 
 flower of Mexico, would it please you to have me stay? 
 
 ANN. T am sure the senor would be a much more charming 
 guest Chan that cros^ old Count Pedro Martinez. 
 
 JON. What a lovely picture ot tropic female loveliness! 
 ANN. A picture? Why, senor, are you an artist? 
 JON. Weil, no, not exactlv. 
 ANN. I'm glad of that, for I don't like artists! 
 JON (quickly) Oh, well, I am no artist! I never could draw 
 anything, not even two pair. In fact, the only thing I can draw is 
 my salary (crossing l, c ) and mosquitos. (slaps his cheek, as if a 
 mosquito bit him) 
 
 ANN. You see, senor, there was an artist from San Francisco 
 who boarded with my mother, just back of the Cathedral, in the 
 City yonder; and he went away without payino: his boxrd. Mother 
 is very poor, ana could not afford to lose the money. Seuor, is San 
 Francisco in America? 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 6 
 
 JON"- What charmiiio: jo-uorauee of geography! (aloud) No, my 
 dear, it is in Chiua. The wretch was a Chinaman in disg-uise. 
 
 ANN. (coyly) Tarn srlad he was not an Anaerican! But there 
 _^*"as a senor (rom New York who made a great deal of money sell- 
 ing shares in some silver mine, and when he left Mexico suddenly, 
 the people here began trying to tind out whit they had bought, 
 and they are st'll trying when they don't stop torest'and swear. 
 
 JO>T. Oh, he was an rnrlian! 
 
 A'NN. Oil, no, senor. We have Indians hero He was not dark 
 like theni^ I am sure he must have been a white man. 
 
 JOX. No, you see he was from tlie Nfanhattan reservation. They 
 look like white men till you know them, but they are Indian sav- 
 ages aiJ tli9 i-ame. I hope j'ou iiave never had any newspaper cor- 
 respondents down hero. 
 
 ANN. I think not, seuf r. Whatisitlike? 
 
 JON. Well, it's a sort of gentleman angel, if you can imagine 
 such a thing. 
 
 ANN. Well, that would be a pretty hard thing to imagine. 
 
 JON, Well, there are such things, but they are rare. He goes 
 uhout seeking whom he may interview, trying to be pleasant and 
 see all that lie can and get acquainted with every oody particularlv, 
 and get them to talk to him— 
 
 ANN". Oh, I see! You are a correspondent! 
 
 JON. (tries to embrace her, she eludes him) You are an angel! 
 
 ANN. Adios, senor! (runs into house, laughing) 
 
 JON. She's a charmer! The prettiest girl I ever saw! I must not 
 lose sight of her. Hello! Here comes someone. These Mexicans are 
 like their cactuses— they blossom with welcome and wait their 
 chance to stick you. (Enter CARLOS R. 1 E.) Senor, I beg your 
 pardon fur this intrusion, but I stumbled in here quite unexpected- 
 I.V upon this little Eden. You see I'm an American, writing up 
 Mexican society, scandal, science, stocks, soldiery, spondoolix, et 
 cetera My name is Humboldt Agassiz Jones, at your service. 
 
 CAR. (recognizing him) What! My old friend Jones? 
 
 JON. Castello? Shake! I'm delighted to see you. 
 
 CAR. And I to see you, senor. We have not met since that night 
 a month ago, when your bravery saved me from El Capitan and his 
 band. 
 
 JON. Friend Carlos, I guess we saved each other. You fought 
 like a lion. I guess I am more indebted to you than you are to me. 
 
 CAR. Indeed, no, Henor Jones — 
 
 JON. (laughing) Wasfi't it lively fun, though? (bus of imitating 
 shooting) Pop! bang! bing! bing! bing! bing! Smith and Wesi^on's 
 latent improved double back action! If yon hudn't been such a 
 crack shot, El Capitan ami his cut-throats would have fallen heirs 
 to our petty belongings— watches, vvaliets, wash-bills, toolh-iirushes 
 and all, to s.iy iiothing of that little indispensable lo t-avellers 
 called life. 
 
 (AR. It was a narrow escajjo, senor. and we owe it to vnnr 
 reckless bravery. You Aineri(;aiis never know when you are beai- 
 »n. Weil, I'm heartily glad to see you. (shakes hands again) 
 
 JON. What are you doing here? You sly rogue! Daphnis and 
 Chloe, I'll warrant!" Oh, Romeo, Romeo, why don't you go homeo? 
 Some fair senorita? Come, confess! 
 
 CAR. Well, I will be frank with you. That is the reason of my 
 prolonged slay here. But "the course of true love" — you know the 
 adage. 
 
 JoN. What is the matter, old fellow? Is the fair divinity deaf 
 to her worshipper, or is the duenna lynx-eyed, or, worse than all, 
 do.'s her "mum na'' object.' 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. ' 
 
 CAR. Neither. Ou the contrary, I am certain I am not an un- 
 welcome guest, for the Countess, my hostess, treats me with the 
 most marked kindness, amounting almost to partiality. But when 
 I try to have a word alone with the fair seuorita, Isadora, I am al- 
 ways thwarted, I don't know how. 
 
 JON. Castello, we are sworn friends. Let me helpyou. Introduce 
 me here, and rely on mv aid. 
 
 CAR. Thanks, senor! I'll do it. It seems I must be doubly 
 indebted to you— both for life ana happiness. You are indeed a 
 friend. 
 
 JON. There, there! You owe me nothing. It will serve my pur- 
 pose as well. It will give me an insight into Mexican high life and 
 society. 
 
 CAR. (looking off R.) Ah, here comes our hostess, and with her 
 that old Count Pedro. He is always in my way! 
 
 JON. Who is he? 
 
 CAR. I ff'ar he is a suitor for the hand of Isadora 
 
 JON. So! He's the stumbling-block, is he? Well, Til roll him 
 out of your way. I'll keep him so busy he'll have no time to inter- 
 fere, (enter COUNTESS and PEDRO"k. 1 e.) 
 
 CAR Senora, pardon the liberty I take A friend of mine was 
 passing when we met quite accidentally. I presumed ou your hos- 
 pitality by detaining hmi Allow me to present him to you. 
 
 INEZ. Your friends are mine, senor. 
 
 CAR. Thanks, senora! Permit me to introduce my dear friend, 
 Senor Jones, from the United States. Senor Jones, the Countess 
 Inez de Oro. 
 
 INEZ. Y'ou are most welcome, senor. I can ouly thank Senor 
 Castello for bringing us such a pleasant guest. 
 
 JON. (kissing her hand) Tiianks, senora! So royal a welcome 
 could only come from such queenly lips. 
 
 INEZ, (smiling) I did not know you Americans were such adroit 
 flatterers. Our gallants had best look to their laurels in the fine- 
 art of compliment. But, pardon me! My guest and friend Count Pe- 
 dro Martinez, Senor Jones. 
 
 JON. (offers hand) I'm glad to meet you. Count. 
 
 PED. (folds his arms) Your servant, senor. 
 
 JON. A dead shake! (does bus of sizing up PEDRO) 
 
 CAR. Senor Jones and I have been sworn friends since a nioniii 
 ago, when, being fellow-travellers, we one night eucnuntered K\ 
 Capitau and his band in the Passo del Rey. I owe my life to his 
 bravery that night. 
 
 JON. Senora, don't believe him. He is as modest as he is brave. 
 He fought like a tiger, and the best sliot I evt-r saw. But for him 1 
 should have been in paradise— or perdition — tonight, and a montli's 
 rent due, 
 
 PED. Senors, you were fortunate Few men have met El Capitan 
 and lived to boast of it. 
 
 INEZ Which proves how brave they both were. 
 
 PED. Still, senora, their escape was little short of a miracle. 
 
 JON. (aside) There's something familiar about him N\ here have 
 I seen his leather-colored nib^s I eloreV 
 
 CAR. (aside to COUNTESS) Senora, may I have \he honor of a 
 word with you, alone, when convenient^ 
 
 INEZ (upL) ("erlainly I'll send the Countto entertain your 
 friend. Count, will you kindly play tlie host for me for a little 
 while and show Senor Jones around the grounds? I wish to speak 
 to Senor Castello a momnnt, and then we'll join you. 
 
 PED. (down R. c ) Your wishes are pleasures tome, senora. 
 
 INEZ, (to Jones, as she starts :ip c.l Senor, m^^ke yourself per- 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 8 
 
 fectly at home here. And believe me, I am ouly too happy to have 
 the pleasure of iiumberino- you amoug' my guests. 
 
 JOX. (going up with them) I shall need do coaxing, senora. An 
 angel's invitation to a parariise is sure to be accepted, (they go up, 
 looking ofT at back. BERNAL skulks on from trees, B. 1.) 
 
 BEU. Hist, senor! I am here. (AGUILA enters L. u., sees BER- 
 NAL, stops.) 
 
 FED. Caution! Watch your chance. He, Castello, is in my way. 
 A quick blow and be off. You can steal my house. 
 
 HER My own is near by. 
 
 FED Good! (exit BERNAL R. 1.; exit AGUILA R. Ti.E.) 
 
 INEZ, (calls) Annetta! 
 
 ANN. (appearing at door L.) Yes, senora! 
 
 .ION. (ayide) The angel aorain. by Saint Thomas Jefferson! 
 
 INEZ. Annetta, tell Parquita to prepare the west room for a 
 guest and teJ] Manuel to t)e ready to drive down to the city. 
 
 ANN Yes, senora. May I go with him? 
 
 INEZ. Yes. 
 
 JON. (crossing r. behind INEZ, aside to ANNETTA.) I am go- 
 ing to stay here! 
 
 ANN. I am so glad! 
 
 JON. Are you, little sweetheart? (kisses her, and the COUN- 
 TERS turns in time to nee him. JONES gazes up in the sky. AN- 
 NETTA slips into house ) 
 
 INEZ. What was that? 
 
 JON Eh? A— a— little birdie up in the trees! 
 
 INEZ. On! (laughs, tlien lurns toward PEDRO) Pardon my 
 breach of etiquette, senor! I thought you iiad joined us. 
 
 FED. It iri notliing, senora. (to JONES) Come, senor, I will be 
 your gui<le. 
 
 JON. (folowing PEDRO, aside) It isn't the first time he has been 
 "guyed," (PEDRO and JONES exit R. u E.) 
 
 INEZ, (coming down with CARLOS) Now, Senor Carlos, we are 
 alone; what is it? 
 
 CAR. Senora, you have been so kind, so good; but I still have 
 thft jrreatcst of all favors to ask ot you 
 
 INEZ. Senor Carlos, wiiat wouid I not do for you? 
 
 C.AIi. You give me courciw-e, senora. I love your dauo-hter; will 
 you give her to me tor my wife? 
 
 INEZ, (sits on fountain-seat c.) Sit down by me, Carlos, I want 
 to talk to you. You are a strong, brave, uol)le man. You do not 
 wjiiil this child. She is not your equal in any way. She is no mate 
 for such a man as you. This is a mere pa?S!ng' fancy! 
 
 <'AR. A passing lanc.s , senora? I love tier, I adore her! Won't 
 you give her to me? 
 
 INEZ. (l)reakiniJr forth passionatelv) Oh, Carlos! Icannot! I ean- 
 nol! 
 
 CAR. (s'lrpriseci) Cannoi? Wliy, senor.a, why? 
 
 IinEZ. Listen, senor, and t'lei: condemn me if you will. My father 
 was a m;in of' iron His will was law. He forced me, a motherless 
 ifirl of fourteen, into a hated m image with Senor de Oro, a man 
 older than iiimself. Hi.s only merit w is his hoarded gold. I was 
 sold to him. boiiy and spirit! I cannot call that hated union a mar- 
 liage-I lo stlied'hiin! 
 
 (JAR, I^)or seooral What misery, what despair! 
 
 IN1{:Z. Do you pity me. Carlos? Nay, h'sten! Isadora was Worn 
 as I he child ot that loveless marriage. I almost hated the child for 
 lier lather's sake. Then he, my ni;isrer— my owner — I wi 1 not call 
 him hushand — liifd, and I was' free at la-t! ' My heart, chilled in its 
 bud'ling hope, lay frozen in my bri^a^t till I met you! Turn away 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 9 
 
 your face, Carlos. Do you not see all? I caunofc give her fco you 
 because I love you! 
 
 ('AR. (amazed) You love me! 
 
 INEZ. Yes. Don't speak, Carlos! I love you! Your touch thrills 
 me and makes my heart leap, my blond run riot in my veins! I 
 never knew I had a heart till it wakened at the music ot your 
 voice. Now it is a tide of passionate love that seta toward you as 
 the'river toward the sea. She is but a child, cold and weak as her 
 father before her. 
 
 CAB. I love her, seuora. I will be a good son to you and love 
 you as a mother. 
 
 INEZ, (wildly) Mother! I am not au old woman, Carlos! As a 
 son? Never! As my own, my lover, my husband, my life — yes, al- 
 ways, with a love that defies death irself! You are the only being I 
 havH loved since my childhood. 1 cannot lose you thus Oil, Carlos, 
 forgive me! I cauuot crush my life, my hope. Youv words stungme 
 till they wrung this cry of despair from my lips and tore tbe hid- 
 den secret from my heart! Oh, Carlos, I love you so! 
 
 CAR. Ob, I am so sorry for this, Countes'^! Sorry for your sake, 
 for all our sakes. 
 
 INEZ. Beware! Love passionate as mine, makes U3 angels or 
 fiends! If returned, its wa'mihaiul light are ponred out like the 
 suDshiue on the flowers, in joyous prodig.ility If pent and curbed, 
 its fierce beat blasts what it would have cheered and blessed. 
 
 CAR. I'ardon me, seuora! I cannot ciiuirol my heart! W ill you 
 not let me be your friend, your son, giving you that pure love a sou 
 may give a mother? 
 
 INEZ, (starling up) No! If you cannot be mine, I will not place 
 before nie the torturing sight of your afFcCtiou foi- another; the ca- 
 resses that might have been mine but fur her. (PEDRO appears K. 
 at back, li-^tenijig.) 
 
 CAH. Think uf your child's hai'piness. 
 
 INEZ. (!ai]ghs laitterly) I have wasted my life in sacrificing my 
 heart to the happiness of others. You have s-aid it, "I cannot con- 
 trol my heart!" Listen! 'I'o watch lu-r love for you, your tender- 
 ness to her. wou'd drive me mad, and I fehould kili yi,u both! (PE- 
 DRO exits K. 3) (fails on knees, arms around him) Oh hear me, 
 Carlos! At your feet, forgetting all my pride, I plead tor your love. 
 Stioiig natures such as your.s crave more than the weak return of 
 c )ld hearts like hers. Tnink of the ueaiih of my love for you, and 
 contrast it with the poverty of heis. Renounce her, Carlos, and 
 lake my heart, my snul, wy life if you will! 
 
 CAR. (treeing himself) \N oinun, are you mad? 
 
 INEZ, (starts up, laughiuir wildly) Perhaps l am. I hope so. To 
 breaking hearts luadness is a sweet oblivion — a blest lethe of for- 
 getfulness. (tails into heneh) 
 
 CAR. Are you a mother? Can you stanri in the wav of your child's 
 happiness and let your selfisimess cast its slmdow over her young 
 life? Would you dootu her to suffer ihe niisei'v of seeing her lilighl- 
 ed hopes realized by tlie cruel mother who could have save<l"and 
 has l)etrayed her? VV'^onian, the very tigress is more teiiOer ot it.s 
 younjjf. [crosses ii,] 
 
 INEZ You S|Hiru my h've! The day may come when I can rend' 
 your lie-irt as you are rending mine. Will I spa' e you then, will I 
 show you meJcy? Ay, the same mercy you show me now. i have 
 Jaid all on the altar ot my love. You scorn theotfering. 'J'remble 
 lest the angry flame leap uj). coMsuminsr ihe idol ac wiiose feet it. 
 burned. JNlurk uje! I would kill lier with my own hands l)eforeyou 
 should have her! You have your answer, l-areweli, senor! Ka.'ha, 
 lia! (exits into house, laughing bitterly) (PEDRO comes down ic. 
 sh. wly, fronj li o) 
 
A KOYaL, slave. 10 
 
 CAR. (sinks iu despair ou fountain) Name of heaveu! Thisister- 
 rible! Is it love or madness? Does all liopa end here? (starts up) No! 
 By the angels! I will win lier vet! (turns K., fac^ing PEDRO) Your 
 pardon, senor, 1 did not see you (crosses I'EDRO to K.) 
 
 PED. (detaining him) 8ta.y a moment, senor. I am here with 
 the Couniess' consent as a suitor for her daughters hand, and I 
 want no inlerfejence. 
 
 CAR. (dtfiautly) Should she ever become your wife, you would 
 then have some righc to dictate who her friends may be; certainly 
 not now. 
 
 Fl'^D. (hotly) My rights and my actions are my own, and not 
 subject to the approval of a fortune-hunting adventurer. 
 
 CAR. (quickly) Senor! (rtsirains himselt ) My blood is as pure 
 as yours, as noble! It my purse is lighter, so is my greed. 
 J'ED. (in rage) Greed, fellow! 
 
 CAR. It has never been necessary for my family to hide the 
 sources oi ils wealth! 
 
 FED. (attempts to speak) An! — 
 
 vJAR. (iuieimpts him) Nor iiave I grown old in low cunning, 
 craft and wickedness. 
 
 PEIJ. (starts to strike liim with glove) Fool! Your life shall pay 
 for this. 
 
 CAR. (grasps wrist) You forget that you are playing the gen- 
 tleman. We are guests here, and have no rigtil lo seiile our differ- 
 ences bef( re the iloors of tmv liostess. 
 
 PED. lOuough, senor. You shan't have that excuse. Words are 
 useless between U8. If your heart is as brave as jour tongue, mei^t 
 me tomorrow m'>rnirg at snnri?e, at yonder bricige. Oar meeting 
 wirhouL wilnessts, and our cause to the tribuual of brave meu — 
 (Li uches swoid) ihesti! 
 
 CAll. (uows) I will be thtre, senor; till then, farewell (exit c. 
 and Tj.) 
 
 PED. (COHNTE-A?! entering from house) Dog! I'll cut his heart 
 out! (sees (.;OUN 1 ES.>) Ali, senor.-i! 
 
 INEZ. You Seem annoyed, Count; what is it? 
 
 PEL). I am annoyed, senora. I cannot t>rook that Castello's at- 
 tentions to Isador I. Give her to me at once. 
 
 INEZ. 1 will, seuor; you shall l)e wedded tornormw if ynu will. 
 PE1>>. (kissing her iiaud) Senora, you aie too good. Tomorrow 
 let it be tljeu. And now, good night. 
 
 INKZ. Cood night, Count! Tomorrow, at noon. Goodbye till 
 then, (e.xit I El)UO C. and K ) Ha, ha! Carlos Castello, the game 
 is mine! (e>-it k. 1. Enter CARLOS c. from i.,) 
 
 CAR. My darling! I may never see her again! Rut if I live stie 
 f-hall be mine— I swear it. My dear one, my beaut ful, gondbye, 
 g. odbye. (sees guitar tiy hanimocx, on porch) Ah, Isadora's gui- 
 tar. It; shall be my messenger, and bear her my a<l os. [sings] 
 "Dark night o'er the sad e.ui th fell, i-ad to bid the day larewell; 
 Sad and dark my spirit true, as it i»ids farewell to 3'ou 
 Soft the night-wind's gentle sigh, in the T'L-se-ht art dew-tears lie. 
 'I'hus my heart, with sigh and tear, bids farewell to thee most dear. 
 Though I he happy day is done, there will come another sun. 
 Though we parr in gdefand pun. darling, I'll come back .-igain. 
 l.,ove, I leave my heart with you! Keeji y >iir heai t to< 'arlos true! 
 Sad the word as tolling knell! Oh, my lile, larewell— farewell!" 
 [lays down guitar and lurns to go. Up C | 
 ISA. [cautiously at door] Hist, Carlos! 
 
 C.All. [turns rpuckly] I-adora! [clasps her. P. ERNAIj creeps 
 on from 1;. S, wilh knite, draws back to slab (JARLOS. ACtUILA 
 spring:) on after hiu), wreuches the knife Ir^m liim and knocks him 
 dowu. 
 
A KOYAL SLAVE. 11 
 
 AGU. Coward! (Holds picture. BERN AL strutfgles to his feet.) 
 
 BER. [sltulliing otfu. ]] You red devil! We shall meet agaio. 
 
 AGU. [picking up knife] Never but once, and then I'll leave 
 you for a buzzard's frast. 
 
 ISA. [going to him] Are you hurt? 
 
 AGU.. No, estrella de mea' alma. 
 
 CAR. Aguila, you have saved my life. I shall not forget this, 
 my friend. 
 
 AGU. All for her, senor! Be kind to her and make her happy, 
 and old Aguila will be repaid a tfiousand fold, (puts her in CAR- 
 LOS' arms, goes up c.) 
 
 CAR. I will, 1 swear it! (calls) Aguila! 
 
 AGU, [turns] Senor? 
 
 CAR. [aside to him] You are my friend. Meet me tomorrow 
 morning, half an an hour after sunrise, at yonder bridge. I may 
 need your aid to care for a wounded man. 
 
 AGU. I will be there, senor. Say nothing of that murderous 
 aog — leave him for mo. I will guard you as though you were my 
 own son, for you are lier happiness. Good night! 
 
 ISA. [rushing to his arm^i] Djar old papa Aguila, bless you, 
 bless you. 
 
 AGU. Flor de cielo! My darling child, (kisses her and exits c. 
 and L ) 
 
 CAR. (hurriedly) My life, my hope, I must leave you. Your 
 mother will not yield. But fear not — I will win you yet. Goodbye, 
 my dear one! 
 
 ISA. [clinging to him] Oh, Carlos, my heart will break. Must 
 you leave me? 
 
 CAR. Yes, dearest, for your sake; but the Countess must not 
 see us togetiier here. Aguila shall teil yui our plans. If I am seen 
 here, you will suffer for my rashness. Be brave, little woman, [kiss- 
 es her] I'll soon come back. 
 
 AGU. [rising at back] Hist, Senor Carlos, away! [exit CARLOS 
 L. 1, ISALjORA crosses l ] 
 
 INEZ, [coming on i;. 2, seizes ISADORA'S wiist] You wretch! 
 I saw your clandestine meeting Vvfith your lover. Girl, mark me! 
 You shall renounce him. Tomorrow at noon you wed Count Pedro 
 Mattiuez! 
 
 ISA. [starting up] Never! 
 
 INEZ, [enraged] I swear it, gid!. Tomorrow you shall be his 
 bride, or death's. (]!hoose then. Your answer! 
 
 AGU. [springing on c] No! [PEDRO appears at back from R. 
 u., with rniing-whip] 
 
 IN'EZ. Dare you defy me? 
 
 AGU. [coming down c] Yes! I have been the slave of your 
 family fur sixty years. I have obeyed your slightest whim till now 
 — not tlirough tear, but love and duty to your race, [eiaspiug ISA- 
 DORA] That love makes me defy you now. 
 
 PED. (down R. c, threatening AGUILA with whip) Dog! 
 
 AGU (raises hand commandingly) H )ld! I am a peon, a slave, 
 — the Spaniard's faithful dog, if you will; but not a cur to be beaten. 
 One cut of that whip and I am a sluuth-h( und at your throat. The 
 blood of kings is in my veins, and cannot br"ok a blow! 
 
 PED. (lashes him with whip) Take that! 
 
 AGU. (wrests whip from hiiu and throws him down c. on his 
 face) And with it, your life! (draws macheta) 
 
 ISA. (kneeling, ra'ses hand to AGUILA) Spare him, Aguila! 
 
 AGU. I can wait! (INEZ r , opp 2. PEDRO and AGUILA c. 
 ISADORA kneeling l. o. Picture and curtain. CARLO-S rings.) 
 
 END OF ACT I. 
 
A KOY.'-IjSI.AVIv 12 
 
 ACT II. 
 
 SCENR ].— Handsome tropic luudscape in 4. Bridge to run on R. .", 
 with connected a^rouiul-pier-es to draw otf'. Scwne (isod Cor box- 
 ings to revolve up from tormentors for scene 8. K;irlvd;ivvn. Dis- 
 tant ohimea ringinir tit rise. Viilley of Mexico. JONES discov- 
 ered sitting on bridge, writing. 
 
 JON. "Beauiiful view, snow-capped nionntains, faint catli^driil 
 chimes, pnrple leagues, tropic sun-rise, distant city, lovely valley, 
 — seen through lace-like llanos and plumy pahn^; fern enil>()were<l 
 limpid t)rooks," — Ijinippd brooks? No; it runs crooked but it don't 
 limp; "staggering l)rnoks'' is lietter. (corrects) There, that will do 
 for ilie sketch; I'll ]>ufc in the coloring later. Hello, who's that? 
 (looks back of'liirn) ('arlos, as I live! l^ueuos dias, cabaUero! 
 
 CAR. (entering u. o) ikienos dias, Senor Humboldt. You are 
 out early. 
 
 TON.* Yes, and you too You see, I am up to catch the tro]nc 
 sun-rise and dish up a little journalistic mess for that gossip-gour- 
 mand, the American i)ublic. Hut what gets you up at this hour? 
 
 CAR. (evasively) I c<.uld i\ol sle( p. I'le-ide, I had an appoint- 
 ment at daylight. 
 
 JON. Isn't the view lovely from this point? I could linger here 
 for hours admiring it. 
 
 TAR. My friend, will you do me a favor? 
 
 JON. Certainly, Carlos; wiuit is it? 
 
 C.A.R, Go and tind Agnila, tlie old Indian. (Sun gradu;»1iy up) 
 
 JON. I say, Carlos, why are you so anxious to get rid of me? Oh, 
 I see— the appointment at sunrise! I beg pardon. Oh, yon sly old 
 fox. A love tryste, and this is the trysling place, and I am in the 
 way. "Two's a company, three's a crowd." Ha. h.a, ha! Desist, my 
 dear sister, and do not insist; 'tis the tryste of tlie tryster that 
 trysleth a tryste. 
 
 "CA!i. (gravely, takes JONES' hand) My friend, it is a tryste of 
 death. I have an appointment to fight Count Pedro Martinez here 
 at sunrise. 
 
 JON. I'll be your best man— no, that is, I m^an, your second. 
 
 CAR. The duel was to be without seconds. That was the agrHe- 
 raent, and I must iH)ld to it. Hut I thank you! Tiiere! Leave me 
 now, and return with Agnila in half an hour One or the other of 
 us will need your good offices. Should I fall, tell Isadora.. 
 
 JON. (grasping his hand) 1 will do as you wisii, (Jarlos. lint I 
 don't trust that Senor Count; I dread foul play from hhn, 
 
 ('AR I have no fear He is at least a gentleman. 
 
 JON. I doubt it. You think he is. You often think you know 
 what you know you think, hut you don't always know, you kt\ow', 
 what you think you think, (shakes <!ARLO.S' hand warmly) (Jood- 
 bye, old fellow and good luck. If Mr. Count harms you, he will owe 
 me the next dance. It will be "Pistols and coffee for two; bnlance 
 all; second couple lead out!" I'll till him as full of windows as a 
 Long Branch cottage, (exit it. 3, over bridge) 
 
 CAR. This is an unpleasant affair, and the sooner it is over the 
 better. What detains Martinez? (looks off h) Here he comes now. 
 (enter PEDRO i:. 1) Good morning, senor. 
 PED. Good morning. You are prompt. 
 
 CAR. (preparing) Yes. (they drop jackets and scrapes and som- 
 breros. Serape round left arm. PEDRO dro])S locket. They :ight. 
 PEDRO crowds in and liits CARLOS on head with knife and s(al».s 
 him. CARLOS falls, PEDRO rises, laughs cruelly, throws off sc- 
 rape. INEZ enters u. 2 as PEDRO kneels to finish OARr.OS, an<» 
 throws PEDRO R.) 
 
A KOVAL SI.AVE. 13 
 
 INEZ. Hold, irmrderpr, you have killc-d liim! (kneels and lakes 
 CAHf.Ori' head on knee, stauiichiujr blood with her handkerchief ) 
 
 FED. (smilincr) Yes, senora, according' to the code; dead, biitail 
 fairly 
 
 INEZ. Fiend! Yon murdered him! 
 
 PEI). He was vour lover. 
 
 INEZ, rt ia false! 
 
 1*EI) Ht^nora, I heard your hurnln^r words of love to him h>st 
 nio;ht by (lie fountain. I'heard him gpurn your heart! I have 
 avBiiofed you. 
 
 INEZ. (CuriouH) Are yon my bloodhound, to track lo death all 
 th.it (tfloud meV Assassin! Did I bid you drive your cruel sleel 
 throusfh Ihatheart arouud which my own heart-strings had twined? 
 
 PP]p. No, senf)ra; but as I ani to be your sou, I killed the man 
 who iiisulled your love and crossed mine. 
 
 INEZ. \N hat! You my son, and your hands red with his blood? 
 Never! Tomorrow's dawn sees her her in the convent of Santa 
 Madre !^.( gone, nionslei ! Never let me look upon your face again! 
 
 I'ED. (bowing) As yon will, s-enora. Farewell! You wili repent 
 3-onr jinger and give her to me yet. 
 
 INEZ, (fiercely) Never — g<'! 
 
 ^ED^ (^^miling) We shall see! (e.vits R ]) 
 
 INEZ, (passionately) Oh, Carlos! Forgive me! Speak to ine! Did 
 I •■ring you to this? jjook up, Carlos! I f>rgeD your words of scorn, 
 I forger, ail s;ive that I loved you! (kisses him) Oh, that my kisse.s 
 might broatlie their passionate life into your lips! Were my heart 
 colli in vieatli,your clasp would make it leap to lifeagain! Though 
 my .tonl stoo(i at the gates of F'aradise, your kins would lure my 
 spirit back froni heaven to you! Oh, are you dead? (feels heart) No, 
 IN)! FTe lives! His heart beats faintly yet — perhaps I may save him! 
 (enter .KJNES over bridge) Oh, Carlos, you shall uotdie! You shall 
 not! 
 
 JON. Wiial ! Carlos wounded? \h, seiiora, let me lead you away. 
 This is no place for you. This is no sight for a woman's eyes, 
 
 INEZ. Ikit to leave him thus! 
 
 JON. (kneels, feels heart) Leave him to me. You can despatch 
 for a doctor and send me aid to boar him where he can have care- 
 ful nursing. Thank heaven, he lives. 
 
 INEZ. Ah, seiior, you are too kind! vSive him, for heaven's sake! 
 
 JON. Fear nothing, lady. He is my friend. I shall do all in my 
 power for him. (she staggers) But you are faint— let me help yon 
 across the bridge, (exit with her over bridge. Euter AGUILAand 
 PA ORE DOMINGUS r.. 1) 
 
 AGU. Therd, Padre, I have told yon all. You are her friend. 
 Thechu'ch— your sacred office — your wisdom, can protect her, poor 
 child! I can do nothing— I am only a slave! 
 
 JON (ruiinino- on u 3) Aguila! Padre! Quick! Carlos has been 
 wounded! See! (all to body. 'aGUIL.A lifts him tenderly and after 
 puts him on PADRES knee for examination) 
 
 PAD. Wounded? Nonif^n coeli! Letmelook. (takes him on knee. 
 AGUIFjA rises at back) The saints be praised— he lives! (pause for 
 business) I do not Ihink the wound is deep, and this handkerchief 
 has stopped tlio flow of blood. I can save him! 
 
 AGU. (seeing locket i..c.) Ah, what is this? A locket? (picks it 
 up) Saints in heaven! My dear lady, my Mercedes' picture! 
 
 PAD. (surprised) Mercedes? 
 
 AGU. Yes. How came it here? (hands locket to PADRE) Mas- 
 ter Juan wore this locket the day he was captured by El Cap) tan. I 
 was with him and was loft youder in the Paso del Rny for dead. 
 
 PA D. Then the man who lost it must have been El Capitan. 
 
A KOYAL SLAVE. 16 
 
 JON. Yes, that is certain. Then, by the spurs of the American Eagle, 
 we've got him. 
 
 PAD. (surprised) What do you mean? It cannot have been him (point- 
 ing to CARLOS) for he was a mere boy at the time. 
 
 JON. No, I mean his antagonist; he must have lost it. 
 
 PAD. Wiio was he? 
 
 JON., Count Pedro Martinez. Carlos told me not half an hour ago that 
 he had an appoiatment to fight the Count here at sunrise. 
 
 AGU. (aside) Count Pedro Martinez! Ah, I see it all! The assassin last 
 nighi — El Capitan's hireling. 
 
 PAD. Come, bring him to my house at once. Not a word of this to a 
 living soul, I charge you. Come, follow me. (exit R.TJ.) 
 
 AGU, (to JONES) There! Go before, senor! See that we are not watched. 
 1 will follow and bring him after, (exit JONES r. u.) Poor Carlos! (bend- 
 ing over him) What will the little senorita say to this day's work.? Poor 
 boy, poor boy! (Scene chan;j6«. JONES whistles close-in.) 
 
 SCENE 2. — Garden or landscape or Mexican plaza ia 1. 
 
 JON. (enter R. 1, looking L ) Ah, no one along the path. Aguila must 
 have taken a short cut, Indian-like; he Knows every by-path in the country. 
 Ah, I hear the flutter of a petticoat, and the flutter of n^y heart tells me it is 
 Annetta. Oh, Annetta, sweet Annetta! Would to goodness I could get her. 
 I would not envy kings their thrones if she'd be Mrs. Humboldt Jones. 
 Short meter, please! 
 
 ANN. (enters L., runs to JONES) Ah, senor, I'm so glad I've found you 
 
 JON. So am I, little sweetheart. But what's the matter? You look fright- 
 ened. 
 
 ANN. I am frightened, but it's for you. 
 
 JON. For me? Why, what have I done? 
 
 ANN. I have an awful secret to tell you! 
 
 JON. A woman and a secret? Why don't you keep it? 
 
 ANN. Oh senor, this is no jest. You are the fi lend of Senor Castello. 
 You and he fought with El Capitan's band in the Passo del Rey and escaped 
 from them, did you not? 
 
 JON. Yes, but how did you find that out? 
 
 ANN. Listen, senor! Last night I went down to the city to visit my 
 mother; she was sick and I went for the doctor. As I was returning home 
 I saw two men back of the cathedral. They were rough looking men and 1 
 wfts frightened, so I hid in one of the dark corners and waited tp'- them to 
 pass. They were talking earnestly and did not see me. I heard one of them 
 tell the other that El Capitan wanted him to skulk around the Hacienda de 
 Ora and kill Senor Castello; but tha Indian had balked him; but that h« 
 would finish his work and would not forget to put that red watchdog to 
 sleep, and that American, too; for, said, he, that American finished six of the 
 best men in the band in the Passo del Rey, and that one of them was his 
 brother! 
 
 JON. (crosses to i.) He will, will he? Well, if he monkeys with me lie'll 
 join his brother in the happy hunting ground quicker than a rube could bite 
 at three-card monte! 
 
 ANN. I was so frightened, senor; it seen>ed that I could not get back 
 here quick enough to tell you. 
 
 JON. (goes to her) And you didn't want me to be killed, eh? 
 
 ANN. (looks shyly at him) Oh no, senor! 
 
 JON. Well, my guardian angel, I'll be on my guard. But I'm not afraid 
 of them. 
 
 ANN. Oh, senor, you don't know that terrible El Capitan! 
 
 JON. Oh, yes I do; I had a call from him and his whole family in the 
 Passo del Rey, and it was a lively visit, too! 
 
 ANN. They glide like snakes and bite when you least expect it! 
 
A ROYAL, SLAVE. 17 
 
 JON. Yes, but sometimes the snaks gets snaked out of his nest. Why 
 don't they catch the scouudrel? 
 
 ANN. Oh, I forge'i to teil you the rest. The man who threatened to kill 
 you told the other one the shortest way for him to go home with his goods 
 to the cave was by the Passo del Ferdinand, to the south of the Toradbis 
 Canon, and foliOw up the stream for a mile, where by the large fallen pine 
 tree, across the stream, he would see the path that led to the cave. 
 
 JON. (takes ANNETTA and dances around with her) We've got 'em, An- 
 netta, we've got 'em! 
 
 ANN. Got whom, senor? 
 
 JON. Listen, Aaneita. The government of Mexico offers a reward of 
 ten thousand dolurs for the capture of El Capitan. Now you've discovered 
 his hiding-place, and the money »s yours. 
 
 ANN. Mine? Why, I cannot capture him, senor! 1 am only a weak wo- 
 man. 
 
 JON. Listen! You've trappsd him, I'll captufe him. You'll get the mon- 
 ey, I'll get a crackerjack newspaper article, your mother will be rich for life 
 and you'll be a lady of fashion. 
 
 ANN. Oh, I don't care for myself, senor, if my mother could hare a nice 
 home in her old age and not be poor. 
 
 JON. You're a good daughter and would make a splendid wife, and that's 
 just what I need in my business. 
 
 ANN, But, senor, you'd better not try it. 
 
 JON What? Getting married? 
 
 ANN. No — capturing El Capitan. You might get killed. 
 
 JON. So you don't want me to get killed, eh? 
 
 ANN. (bashfully) Why, certainly not; I — I — 
 
 JON. You like me just a little bit, eh? 
 
 ANN. Well, 1 like you much belter alive, senor! 
 
 JON. Look here, Annetta, I love you harder than a Mexican mosquito can 
 bite. I want you to marry me. Now, what do you say? 
 
 ANN. (laughing and dropping him a courtesy) Much obliged, senor! 
 
 JON. Don't mention it! 
 
 ANN. But, senor, I hardly know you! 
 
 JON. Hardly know me? Why, we're partners in business — "Annetta, Jones 
 & Co.; Robber-Catchers, Cave-Finders, Etc." Now Annetta, if you don't 
 marry me I'll go and get killed by El Capitan and everyone of his band. I'm 
 determined to get married or murde-ed! 
 
 ANN. Well, don't get killed, senor, and we'll try and get better acquainted, 
 I must have time to make up my mind, you know. 
 
 JON. Well, I can't hope to live unless I live to hope! 
 
 ANN. You'd better live to hope, then, senor! 
 
 JON. My angel! (goes to embrace her, she ducks him) 
 
 ANN. You must wait till we're better acquainted! I haven't given you my 
 promise yet, remember! (exit L. 1, laughing) 
 
 JON. (looking after her) No, but you will! Like General Scott, I've set 
 my heart on the conquest of Mexico! But I must get to the padre's house. 
 Well, I'll find that robber sure as the Lord made little apples! (exitR. 1.) 
 
 SCENE 3. — Padre Domingus' house. Kitchen with window flat L. in 3; other 
 flat R. in 4, b^'xed up c. with wing to make alcove. Curtains to run on 
 cord from c. off R. 3, to mask alcove. Bed in alcove. Set door L 3. Sn all 
 table with crucifix and glass of wate*- R. 3. Chairs by table and at foot of 
 bed. Window backed by exterior. JONES discovered by table. PADRE 
 on chair at foot of bed. AGUILA on guard at window L. flat. CARLOS, 
 unconscious, l>ing on bed. 
 
 PAD. Watch close, Aguila. Warn us of anyone's approach. I think he is 
 regaining consciousness. The wound is not deep, and he is only weak from 
 loss of blood. He has received a hard blow on the head that has done the 
 most of this. 
 
A KOYAIi SLAVE. 18 
 
 CAR. (opening his eyes) Give me water! (JONES complies) Where am I? 
 
 JON. Among friends, Carlos. How do you feel? 
 
 CAR. Very weak. Am I wounded? 
 
 PAD. Not very badly. 1 will have you on your feet again in a few days 
 if you will obey me. 
 
 CAR. To whom am 1 indebted for this kindness? 
 
 JON. To the good padre and the faithful old Aguila. 
 
 CAR. (talcing JONES' hand) And to you, my more than friend. 
 
 PAD. Yes, senor, 
 
 JON. Padre, you should know your patient. This is Colonel Carlos Cas- 
 tello. 
 
 PAD. (surprised) Son of Antonio and Maria de Castello? 
 
 CAR. (surprised) Yes, padre. How did you know that? 
 
 PAD. Thank Heaven that I can serve you! 1 have not seen you since you 
 were a child. Carlos, you are my siste<-'s son. 
 
 CAR. (attempting to rise) What! My uncle. Padre Domingus? 
 
 PAD. Yes. There, you must lie quiet now, my boy! The Holy Word says, 
 "Thou shalt not kill." You have nearly lost your life by disobeying Heaven's 
 command. 1 must heal you, body and soul. 
 
 CAR. Uncle, there are some insults no man can bear. I am a soldier, and 
 it is better to die like a man than to live like a coward! 
 
 PAD. There, there, my son! I'll not be nncharitable to you. Young blood 
 is hot; and — who knows? — had 1 been a soldier instead of a priest of Heaven, 
 I might have done like you! Who was your antagonitt? 
 
 CAR. Count Pedro Martinez. 
 
 PAD. Did you see him drop anything where you fought? 
 
 CAR'. Yes, 1 remember, when he threw off his serape I saw something 
 glitter and fall. It was about the size of a coin, and was gold. 
 
 JON. (to AGUILA) We have the rat in the trap! 
 
 PAD. (shjwing locket) Might it not have been this? 
 
 CAK. I thin'< it very likely. Did you find it there? 
 
 PAD. Yes. Listen, my son! You may do the state a better service than 
 by risking your life in a duel Fourteen years ago Juan Alvarez was waylaid 
 and probably murdered by El Capitan, On that day he wore this locket. It 
 contains the picture of his wife, Mercedes. It has never been seen till today. 
 The man who lost it was probably the one who took it from the body of 
 Alvarez. 
 
 CAR. El Capitan? 
 
 PAD. El Capitan! 
 
 CAR. (trying to rise) I will go at once to the guards — 
 
 JON. (restraining him) No, Carlos! Remember your wound! 
 
 CAR. 'Tis nothing! A soldier's trade is to give and take hard- knocks 
 like a man. I will seize his servants instantly. They shall confess — 
 
 PAD. No, you must let your wounds heal first. 
 
 CAR And in the meantime he miy win her! What is the pain of this 
 scratch compared to a broken heart? 
 
 JON. Hear me, Carlos! Leave him to me. Aguila will guard the little sen- 
 orita. 
 
 AGU. Yes, with my life! 
 
 JON. (crossing to L. 3) I'll track that wolf; and if he dares to show his 
 teetli to the American Eagle, there won't be enough of him left to write an 
 epitaph over! (exit quick D. l. 3.) 
 
 AGU. (at window) Padre! The little senorita is hastening up the walk! 
 
 PAD. Quick! Help me in here with, Carlos! (They close curtains) My 
 son, not a word till 1 bid you! The sudden shock might kill or drive her 
 mad. If you love her, keep silent! 
 
 CAR. 1 will, padre, I will! (They close curtains. ISADORA knocks at D. L. 
 3. PADRE sits R. by table.) 
 
 PAD. Enter! (she runs in, throws shawl extreme l., runs to him, falHng 
 on knees.) 
 
 ISA. Oh, padre! Carlos, my Carlos, my love, my life, is dead! 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 19 
 
 PAD. There, there! Calm yourself, my child! We are all mortal. Let us 
 hope for the best. 
 
 ISA. (starting wildly to her feet) Hope? What hope is there for me now? 
 Speak of hope to the condemned wretch — to the castaway struggling with 
 the waves — for they have still a thread to cling to; but not to the woman 
 whom death has robbed of all that life held dear! These are not childish 
 tears- that a caress can soothe; mine is a loving woman's woe! (falls on her 
 knees by his side, burying her face in his lap, sobbing.) 
 
 AGU. (.rushes to open curtains) Oh, my child — (PADRE stops him) Oh, 
 Pidra, it is so cruel not to tell her all! 
 
 PAD. My child, remember you are a Christian! Have faith in Heaven! 
 Through faith the aead have been brought to life. Remember the story of 
 Lazarus- -"Though dead, he yet lives." 
 
 ISA. (looking up) Oh, good padre, I see the joy in your ey£S! He is not 
 dead! Tell me! Is there any hope? 
 
 PAD. Yes, my child. 
 
 ISA. Alive! Thank Heaven! Bless you for your kind words of comfort. 
 
 PAD. There! Calm yourself, my daughter! He is alive, but it must be 
 kept a secret for the present. Can I trust you? 
 
 ISA. Trust me? For Carlos' sake? Oh, father! Yes! But why must it be 
 a secret? 
 
 PAD. You shall know all in good time. 
 
 ISA. But where Is he? May I not see him? 
 
 AGU. (at wmdow) Oh, padre! The Countess! 
 
 PAD. (putting ISADORA within curtains) Quick, my childl Not a word, 
 not a breatn, oryou are lost! Your lover is there! In — in! (closes curtains, 
 AGUILA leaps through window. INEZ knocks at D. L. 3.) 
 
 PAD. (fixing curtains) Coming! Coming! (opens door, crosses back r.) 
 Ah, my daughter, you are welcome! 
 
 INEZ. Padrt Dumingus, you are the skilled physician, both of the body 
 and the stricken in spirit. You devote your life to heahng the ills of all that 
 come to you in sickness or affliction I have come to claim your good offices 
 for my poor, heart-broken child. 
 
 PAD Your child, senora? What do you mean? 
 
 INEZ. Padre, my daughter's lover has been killed in a duel. The blow has 
 broken her heart. I come to }Ou to crave an asylum for her v/ithin the con- 
 vent's holy cloisters. There she may end her sad days in thoughts of Heaven, 
 and lea n consolation from the sweet and solemn service of the church. 
 
 PAO. I understand you. Countess, better than you think. The convent is 
 a refuge for the world-weaty spirit — not a prison in which Malice or Treach- 
 ery may lock its victims. You cannot use the church of God to do the work 
 of hell! 
 
 INEZ, (astonished) Padre! What do you mean.? 
 
 PAD. You look on your child, not with a mother's, but a rival's eye; and 
 would make the church the tool of your wicked plans! Thou monster! 
 
 INEZ. False priest! Yoi> hjve refused her the convent's refuge; then she 
 shall We'd Count Pedro Martinez. 
 
 PAD. If you try to force her into such an unholy marriage, 1 know the 
 secret of your cruelty to your dead sister, and will blast you with it. 
 
 INEZ, (startled) What? Do your worst! I have wealth and power, nd I 
 will crush you! 
 
 PAD. Though you were an empress, what were your puny power to 
 mine? I am the servant of the King of Kings! What is the little might of 
 man, matched against a ho'-y faith, throned in the loving hearts of millions? 
 
 INEZ. She is my ch'ld, and must obey me! 
 
 PAD. We shall see! If you refuse your consent to her marriage with Car- 
 los, I will crush you! 
 
 INEZ, (catching at his words) "If I refus ?" Ah, he lives, the»n! (seeing 
 shawl L.) See, she too has been here!, (seeing PADRE in alarm at curtains) So! 
 (throws him L. c. and drags out ISADORA c ) 1 have found you! 
 
A KOYAL SI.AVE. 20 
 
 ISA. (kneeling) Mercy, mother, mercy! Do not tear me from him! My 
 heart will break! 
 
 INEZ, (struggling with her) I care not! Come! 
 
 CAR. (struggles up, PADi^E supporting him) You human tigress! You 
 shall not! Would you kill her? You have said it! You — ah — (fainis) 
 
 PAD. Woman! Would you have his blood upon your hands? 
 
 INEZ, (throws ISADORA L. c,) I'll bend her to my will, though she goes 
 mad! 
 
 AGU. (leaps in door) Not while I live! (INEZ, with a cry of rage, draws 
 stiletto and stabs at him; he catches her wrist in right hand; she drops dag- 
 ger; picture. CURTAIN. Second picture: PADRE holding up cross; INEZ 
 stops, awed and baffled. ISADORA folded in AGUILA'S arms.) 
 
 END OF ACT II. 
 
 ACT III. 
 
 SCENE. — INEZ' house, near Puebla, Handsome Mexican intenor. Large c. 
 window with heavy curtains to slide on bar, closing window; backed by 
 tropic garden in 4. Panel opening, or niche left in the boxing R. 3, above 
 door. Set doors R. and l. 2 entrances Scene full boxed, or half boxed if 
 a front scene is desired to open act with specialties. D. R. 3 backed inte- 
 rior. D. L. 3 exterior. Small handsome table with fine parlor spread, cru- 
 cifix, statue of Virgin, two candles and brass candlesticks and small dag- 
 ger, L. 2 against boxing. Small sofa R. of c. window. Parlor chairs (not 
 heavy to handle) R. and L. c. in 2; other handsome furniture to dress stage, 
 but leave C. open. INEZ discovered at rise, much excited. 
 INEZ. I have her safe at last! It was a good thought of mine to bring her 
 here to Puebla! They will not follow us here. Locked in this room, she can- 
 not escape! I will send for Count Pedro at once! He shall marry her imme- 
 diately! Though she kill herself at the altar, I care not! What is An'.onio de 
 Ora's brat to me? I was but the slave, bought with his gold! She is the child 
 of hate, not of love! I owe her nothing! Would I had strangled her in her 
 cradle; then she would never have risen between me and my love! Oh, Car- 
 los, Carlos! My darling! You shall be mine! I would sell my soul for you! 
 As for that red traitor, Aguila, he shall die! Defiance to me — his mistress! 
 Manuel has promised to silence him forever. Poor Manuel, poor, faithful 
 fool! He would go to his death at my bidding. He shall stab him while he 
 sleeps. No dog of a peon shall defy me and live! (laughs wiidiy, stops, 
 grasping her head in alarm.) Oh, my brain, my brain! Am 1 going mad! No! 
 No! I will not! It is only this sleeping fever of desperation! With her once 
 out of my way and Aguila dead, I can rest! (JONES passes window R. to L.; 
 she sees him.) Who is that? (runs to window) The American senor! How 
 could he have followed me here? I must be calm! (composes herself with 
 an effort ) Annetta! 
 
 ANN. (enters R. 1) Yes, senora. 
 
 INEZ. Senor Jones is coming. Make my excuses and say I will be in pres- 
 ently. 
 
 ANN. Very well, senora Countess, (exit INEZ D. R. JONES knocks at D. 
 L. U. E. ANNETTA crosses to L., opens door.) 
 ANN. Goort morning, senor Jones; come in. 
 
 JON. (enters, puts hat on rack, goes R.) Ah, Annetta here and alone. I'm 
 in luck. 
 ANN. (L.) The Couutess told me to tell you she would be in presently. 
 JON. Annetta, 1 v^ant to get down to business. Wil you marry me? 
 ANN. You haven't captured El Capitan yet. 
 
 JON. Oh, is that the condition? Annetta, I came for my answer. I? want 
 to know whether I'm to be married or murdered. 
 ANN. Oh, don't get killed, senor; it isn't a bit nice! 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. Bl 
 
 JON. (very exaggerated) 'Tis sweet to love, but Oh, how bitter to love 
 Annettaaiid then nut get her! 
 
 ANN. (very pathetic) Senor, I am only a poor girl, a servant. I am no 
 wife for such a gentleman as you. 
 
 JON. (burlesque ic a la Jolin T. Raymond) Annetta, poverty is no crime. 
 The accident of position cuts no ice with Jones. Annetta, a good girl who is 
 a true woman is a queen among women. Now put your head upon the man- 
 ly chesterno of Joneseo and s y yes! 
 
 ANN. (lays head upon his shoulder) Very well, then, yes! 
 
 JON. America has taken Mexico! 
 
 ANN. (puts her arms around his neck) No! Mexico has captured America! 
 
 JON. Well, America and Mexico have signed an eternal treaty of love and 
 onion — I mean union. Sign the treaty! (business of kissing) Treaty signed, 
 sealed and delivered. Now El Capitan is a dead mm! 
 
 ANN. (frightened) Is he dead? 
 
 JON. No, but he's only hanging around till I get there. 
 
 ANN. (sees INEZ off R.) Hush! The Countess! (exits out D. L. u. INEZ 
 enters D. r. ) 
 
 JON. Pardon my intrusion. Countess. Do not think I wish to interfere 
 in your afi'aiis. 1 have come as the friend of Carlos. 
 
 INEZ, (graciously) It is no intrusion, senor. I am very glad that you 
 have come, for 1 can say to you vvhrt I could not say to him. You think me 
 cruel, heartless. When you know all, you will see I am just and right. 
 
 JON. It is not my place to question the actions of a lady, under her own 
 roof, senora. 
 
 INEZ. Will you hear me, senor? 
 
 JON- Certainly, senora. 
 
 INEZ. Do you think I could be cruel to my own child, senor? 
 
 JON. (evasively) Such thiniis have been before now. 
 
 INEZ. I am a fnend to Carlos. To justify myself and cure him of his 
 foolish infatuation, I must unveil tlie skeleton in our family. Know, then, 
 that Isadora is not my Jiild! 
 
 JON. (thunderstruck) Not — your — child! 
 
 INEZ. No. She is the child of Senor Antonio de Ora, my husband, by a 
 shve. Carlos is of noble blood. Now what sort of a hostess would I be to 
 let him wed this child of shame? 
 
 JON. (inereduiou>l>) If this be so, senora, how came you to rear her as 
 your own ciiild? 
 
 INEZ. My husband was so much my senor that my love for hmi was 
 m jre the love of a daughter; hence I was free from those jealousies that 
 would have tortured a wife. He luved the bright child; and as we had lost 
 our own daughter in infancy, 1 reared Isadora as my own child. 
 
 JOiN. Pardon me. Countess, but it seems hardly credible. 
 
 INEZ. It is true, nevertheless; no matter what that scheming padre may 
 say to the contrary. He kno.vs nothing of the truth In fact, I have hiaden 
 all evidence of the secret so carefully that I now have no proof to confirm 
 my statement; but the fact remains. 
 
 JON. Does Senorita Isadora know of her origin? 
 
 INEZ. No, senor. No one would ever have known of it had I not been 
 forced to reveal it. I wiil he frank with you, senor, for I feel that 1 can trust 
 you. I love Carlos, and 1 could not bear to see him won away from me by a 
 creature whose origin must bring the blush of shame to every honest cheek! 
 
 JON. (shrewdly) It seems strange, senora, that you did not think of this 
 when yuu made her your child- -gave her your own name and the place of 
 your own oft'spriug in your house? 
 
 INEZ. Senor, could 1 refuse the last request of that old man, as he lay 
 there dying? He had given me posiiion, title, almost boundless wealth. Could 
 I do less than sha e the name and fortune I owed ■ to his bounty with the 
 child he loved? My gratitude to him wis stronger than my scruples. You 
 cannot dream how hard it is for me, even now, to betray his secret; and had 
 her love tallen on anyone else in the world but Carlos, the Sfcret should 
 have remained burieJ for.vt;r! 
 
A KOYAL SI.AVE. 22 
 
 JON. (aside) If she had a bald wig and a pair of spectacles, what a lawyer 
 she would have made! (aloud) I will tell Carlos what you have said, senora. 
 
 INEZ, (giving her hand) Senor, you are so good! Tell him all and let him 
 judge me calmly and honestly. 
 
 JON. (rising) Well, senora, 1 must be going, (going up, aside) Perhaps 
 the padre can unravel this snarl of lies, (aloud) Good day! 
 
 INEZ. Senor, 1 thank you for this call, as it has given me a chance to save 
 Carlos and vindicate myself. Goodbye! (JONES exits D. L. 3) There! I have 
 made Carlos' pride my ally! He will not wed a child of shame! Ah, Padre 
 Domingus, I told you I would conquer yet! Woman's wit against man's 
 power! It is a desperate game, but I have won! (goes to d. r. 3) You may 
 come out now! 
 
 ISA. (entering and coming c.) Mother, if you have one kindly feeling — if 
 your heart is not stone — do not torture me more! Do not threaten me with 
 this hated marriage with Count Pedro! Or if you are merciless still, why, kill 
 me! I am ready to die! 
 
 INEZ. (R. C.) Perhaps 1 may if you do not obey me! You marry Count 
 Pedro at once! 
 
 ISA. (falling on knees) Oh, mother, have pity! Mercy! 
 
 INEZ, (throwing her off) Child! It is time this farce was ended! Listen! 
 You are not my child! You are the child of my husband by a slave! You 
 are a thing of shame! 
 
 ISA. (defiantly) It is a lie! 
 
 INEZ, (sneeringly) Indeed? How do you know? I have reared you as 
 
 Vmy child, but you are not. You are a stain upon the family whose name you 
 
 bear. Carlos knows this now; and he would cut off his right hand before 
 
 he would disgrace his noble name by giving that hand or name to a thing 
 
 like you! 
 
 ISA. You have lied; but I will use your own weapons against you. I will 
 go to Count Pedro; I will tell him this story, and he will refuse to wed the 
 child of your hnsband's slave! 
 
 INEZ, (fiercely) Do it if you dare! I will declare you insane! Do not 
 think to trifle with me! Aguila cannot help you! I will put him beyond reach 
 of you! You must yield! 
 
 ISA. Never! I can die! 
 
 INEZ. Fool! You are a feather in my hands! There is no foe this side of 
 death to match a woman who wars for love and hate at once! Kill yourself 
 if you will — you only serve my purpose! (going r. 3) Beat your wings 
 against your cage — you cannot escape! (exit D. r. 3) 
 
 ISA. (throwing off restraint) The child of a slave! A thing of infamy — a 
 living shame! And he believes it! He loathes, despises me! My last hope 
 gone! Carlos lost to me forever! My only choice that hated marriage or a 
 madhouse! No! There is always one hope left to despair — death! (prays L. 
 at table) Santa Madre, forgive me if I do wrong! I who have no mother! 
 Better death than dishonor; and a marriage unsanctified by love is nothing 
 less? Think how I am goaded to despair- -thou who knowest all suffering! 
 Forgive my sin and take me to thyself! (rises) Oh, for some means! (sees 
 dagger on table) Ah, the desperate wretch is never without a weapon against 
 himself! This dagger! One quick thrust will reach my heart! 
 
 AGU. (springing on from window) Child! What would you do? 
 
 ISA. (runs to him) Aguila! 
 
 AGU Yes! Why don't you trust nie? Have I not sworn to guard you as 
 my own soul? 
 
 ISA. Aguila, she has told me all — has told Carlos, and he hates and de- 
 spises me now! 
 
 AGU. All? All what? 
 
 ISA. That I am not her child. 
 
 AGU. (astonished, goe.<; r 3) Not her child? Saints in Heaven, how did 
 she learn that? I thought I alone knew that secret. 
 
 IS.A. That I am a thing of shame — ihe child of her husband's slave! 
 
 AGU. (fiercely) It is a lie. 
 
 ISA. (eagerly) Oh, is it Aguila? Is it a lie? 
 
 L«fC 
 
.5f. 
 
A ROYAIi SLAA'-E. 23 
 
 AGU. Yes. She herself does not know that you are not her own child; 
 but I dol 
 
 ISA! What do your words mean? Who am I then? 
 
 AGU. Not now, my child. In time you shall know all. 'Tis enough to 
 know that you are her equal — your blood as pure as hers. Fear not Carlos' 
 faith, my child! He loves you too well to doubt or give you up for a lie 
 from lips as false as hell! 
 
 ISA. Go to him, Aguila! Tell him 1 am not the thing she would make 
 me! And if she tries to force me to marry Count Pedro, I will kill myself 
 rather than be untrue to my love! 
 
 AGU. Listen, my child! You need not die! (cautiously) Behold this secret 
 panel. No one but me knows of its existence. I discovered it by an accident 
 two years ago. It was built by your — by the former owner of this hacienda, 
 one Senor Juan Akarez, as a hiding-place for his vast treasure. There is a 
 secret passage leading to the room below. There is a spring of water there 
 and lamps and oil enough to last for months. 
 
 ISA. Oti, good Aguila! You have saved me! 
 
 AGU. I foresaw the coming storm; and knowing that you might need a 
 hiding-place, I hastened here before the Countess and stocked it with all 
 things needful for your comfort. Now hear me, child! Only use it as a last 
 resort. Not a word to anyone of it or what it holds. And promise me, little 
 senorita, that you will not attempt to destroy yourself again. 
 
 ISA. But should she succeed in forcing me into this union with Count 
 Pedro — 
 
 AGU. (interrupting her) Have you not a safe retreat? Even should they 
 seize you — aye, though the priest had said the words that made you his 
 wife! I will save you at the eleventh hour. BeHeve and trust me, Mea Alma! 
 Has old Aguila's word ever failed you yet? 
 
 ISA. But suppose she should — as she has threatened — imprison, you; how 
 could you save me then? 
 
 AGU. Oar good padre thought of that, and gave me this phial! 'Tis a 
 subtle acid that can eat away all bolts and chafns. (replaces it in his hair) 
 She may cage my little dove, but not the eagle! 
 
 ISA. She has some dreadful plan against you, Aguila. 
 
 AGU. I know it. I was skulking yonder, amid the flowers of the garden 
 and I heard her bid that yellow wolf, Manuel, to stab me while I slept! 
 
 ISA. (appalled) Oh, horrible! 
 
 AGU. (at window c.) Mv child, see yon volcano. He is like Aguila — a 
 sleeping giant with a heart of fire. But if he wakens, woe to those who stand 
 within the dread circle of his wrath! Let them beware how they open the 
 gates of the hurricane, lest the tempest crush them. Fear not for me, Mari- 
 posa. That slimy snake Manuel will never crawl into the eagle's nest. I'll 
 give his carcass to the carrion kites beiore this hour tomorrow. But as you 
 love Carlos and trust me, never raise your hand against yourself again. 
 Promise me! Promise! 
 
 ISA. (kissing him) I promise, Aguila, I will do as you bid me to the last. 
 1 will trust you alwavs. 
 
 AGU. (clasping her to his heart) Bless you, my darling child! (hears noi.-Je 
 without) Ha! What was that? Crouch yonder, (peers through window) Ah, 
 thi assassin who tried to kill Carlos! Quick! The secret panel! The lion's 
 mouth — the spring — in — in! 
 
 ISA. (in terror, up at panel) Who can shelter us now? 
 
 AGU. (holding curtains) The wings of the eagle! In, I say! (she exits in 
 panel. AGL'ILA, dashed forward as if by blows from without, falls C. and 
 down stage. Robbers rush on r. and L ; EL CAPITAN last. AGUILA has re- 
 gained his feet and rushes up c .striking EL CAPITAN full in the breast, fells 
 him, as other robbers seize and bring down AGUILA, forcing him on hrs 
 knees.) 
 
 BEi^, (raising knife over him) Strike him dead! 
 
 EL CAP. (down R ) Hold, you fool! He knows the secret of the hidden 
 treasure. He shall tell us where it is or I will flay the red dog alive! Speak! 
 Where is the girl? 
 
A hOYATu ST.AVE. 24 
 
 AGU. (laughs detiantly) Go! Seek her! Within the convent's walls — .. 
 safe from your grasp, you robber cur! ' i', 
 
 EL CAP. (up c ) Away with him to the cave! (AGUILA throws robbers 
 R. and L., and runs up c. EL C^PIFAN meets him on the point of his sword. 
 AGUILA turns and finds himself hemmed in on all sides with a circle of 
 swords. He folds his arms defiantly.) 
 
 AGU. Do your worst! I defy you! -(Picture. CURTAIN. JONES rings it. 
 Second picture: AGUILA forced on knees down c. Robbers over him with 
 swords raised.) 
 
 AGU., ..Strike! (Picture. CURTAIN.) 
 
 END OF ACT III. 
 
 ACT IV. 
 
 SCENE i. — Robbers' Cave in 1. Chains for AGUILA fastened to floor c. near 
 scene. Chains for JUAN L. 1. Old blankets R and L. for JUAN and M \T- 
 ADOR. Bottle, whip, knife and keys for MATADOR. Door r. l, practical. 
 JUAN discovered in chains, on old blanket L. I. MATADOR on blanket R. 
 
 JUAN, (insane) They'll not find it there. Ha, ha, ha! Oh, how my head 
 pains m--! He struck me he e. I can't remember since then — no, I forget 
 where I hid it. Did they kill Aguila? I saw him ( ut El Capitan here! Ha, hal 
 It was no child's blow! * Yes,^yes! Where is my child? — My baby Isabella! 
 Mercedes, — wife' Where is our litt e sunshine? 
 
 MAT. Shut up, you old fool! I want to sleep. 
 
 JUAN. I won't! 
 
 MAT. (starting up) What? Ye won't? Take that— and that! (kicking 
 him) 
 
 JUAN. You may kill me if you will! 1 — will — not — tell! I — cann^^t! 1 
 have forgotten! 
 
 MAT. Silence, ye chattering old monkey, (crossing back R) He's think- 
 ing of his buried trea,sjre. There's where the Captain's temper cost him 
 something. When the old fool wouldn't t^U wl.ere it was hid, he hit him on 
 the head and he went crazy; now he can't tell. El Capitan might have starved 
 the truth out of him; now his on y hope is that he may get his witN some 
 day and tell where it i . Oh, curse the money anyway! Give nie gin and I 
 am happy, (drinks) Ah, that's the stuff! Fit for a saint! (knockout R.) 
 What's that? El Capitan and the rest back so soon? Who's t ere? 
 
 BER. (without) "The wolf's litter!" 
 
 MAT. (unlocks door an. I EL CAPITAN enters, followed by AGUILA jnd 
 BERNAL.) Back so early? 
 
 EL CAH. Yes, but without the girl! (AGUILA laughs tauntingly) But we 
 have you, you dog of an Indian! He shall be of some service to us. He can 
 tell us what that crazed old fool has forgotten; and, by Satan, he shall or I'll 
 have him skinned alive in the morning. 
 
 AGU. (with savage joy) You can tear the flesh trom my old bones; but 
 you cannot tear a secret from an Indian's heart! (Pause for pncture.) 
 
 EL CAP. We shall see. Listen, Aguila. I will spare your young mistress 
 and let you and that crazy old idiot go free if you speak the truth; refuse, 
 and I will tortu e the secret out of you or kill you! 
 
 JUAN. Aguila? Who said Aguila? You are n >4: Aguila! They iiled you 
 i'l the Pass. You are Aguila's ghost! How came you here, among devils? 
 This is not your place. 
 
 AGU. (falling on knees by JUAN) What! My old master, Senor Juan Al- 
 varez, alive! Thank Heaven! 
 
 EL CAP. Yes, and you can save him and yourself by telling where the 
 treasure is hid. Refuse, and he shall be toriured with you 
 
 AGU. (aside) I dare not tell him — not even to save Master Juan; for it 
 would betray her hiding-place. 
 
 EL CAP. Answer me. you oW fool! 
 
A ROYAL. SLAVE. 25 
 
 AGU. Csprlngs up, facing him) I don't knowl (EL CAPITAN, in rage, 
 seizes tiim by tiiroaCl 
 
 EL '^.AP. You iie, you dog! Men, chain him to the walll (They obey) 
 
 JUAN. I will tell you! It is hidden behind the fourth stone-- (pauses, 
 all leaning eagerly to catch his words.) 
 
 AGU. Saints in Heaven! If he remembers, she is lost! 
 
 JUAN, (trying to remember) The fourth stone — the fourth toward the 
 sea— - 
 
 AGU (in terror) Mister! 
 
 JUAN. It is in thj sea! I know! No — 1 have forgotten all— all— I can :ot 
 t.li. 
 
 AGU. Than^ Hdaven for that! 
 
 BER. (seizing AGUILA'S n'ck) You stole my knife in "he garden; you 
 struck m , tou. 1 alivays pay my debts, (strik ng him) Take tn at! 
 
 AGU- Coward! If iny hands w-re fr^e you would no more dare do that 
 thtn you w ni d dare knock at the gites of hcil! 
 
 BER (laughs) Yuu said, when we met, you'd make a buzzard's feas' of 
 m.'. Do it! ri make a tine sad lie of your hide tomorrow! (seizes AGUILA 
 bv throat) fit, ha! I'd like to throttle you! 
 
 AGU. (by quick move throws him r. c ) Would you? Why don't you do 
 it? You nc-edn'c be afraid — I'm chained. 
 
 EL CAP. Never mind liim, Alacran! He can wait till morning. Come here. 
 I have >vork for you. G ) bac c to the casa of Senora de Ora. Watch tor the 
 little senorita. I believe the old knave lies. She must be there. If you see her, 
 seize her and bring her to me at the island. I will be th'ere by evening 
 
 BER, (pointing to AGUILA) How about him? 
 
 EL ' ;AP. Hi will keep till we get ba-k. 
 
 JUAN. Aguila, call Mercedes and bring little Isabella. It is time to go. 
 
 MAT. (springs at him with whip) Shut up, you old p rroti (cuts JUAN 
 twice with whip) 
 
 AGU. (tuggiiig at chains) Dog! If I were but Iree of these accursed irons, 
 I'd make a bloody stairway of your corses! 
 
 MAT, Oh, you want your share, eh? Take it! (cuts AGUILA with whip 
 three times) 
 
 JUAN, (aside) Oh, if he would only fall asleep within reach of my chainsi 
 He'll do it so iie day, an.! then — ha, ha, ha! 
 
 MAT. (turning to him) What! Ye want more? (cuts JUAN ag in; orops 
 keys unconsciously; JUAN h des t em in blanket ) 
 
 EL CAP. Here, Mitador, you make more noise than he does. Be quiet. 
 
 MA r. (meekly, crossing R ) All right, Senor Capitan! 
 
 EL CAP. (to BERNAL) If you capture her, take her to the island, as I told 
 you. I here are two blac< rocks on the north side and a narrow, deep chan- 
 nel between tnem. That is the safest and most hidden landing place. 
 
 AGU (aside, quickly) Hiack rocks — narrow, deep channel? He means the 
 Island cif El Toro! On, if I were only free! 
 
 EL CAP. Once there, tie her and come ort with the boat for me, you hear? 
 
 BER. Yes, Senor Capitan; but I may need aid to Seize her. 
 
 EL CAP. Take Va quez, Miguel and Sancho with you. Mind, no harm to 
 the girl or you shall answer to me. 
 
 BER. (crossing R ) Have no fe; r, Senor Cap tan; you know i am always 
 faithful to you. 
 
 EL CAP. (crossing C ; to AGUILA) With the girl in my p wer, I think I 
 cm bend your stubbon will. 
 
 AGU. (with assumed calmness) You will not find her, Senor Cut-thioat- 
 she is n the convent of S mta Madre. sate from harm. 
 
 EL CAP. (laughs incredul. U'-ly) We shall see If we do not find her within 
 (he c.isa, we wi i stor n the c Miveiit. 
 
 JUAN. Give me back the locket. It contains the picture of Mercedes, my 
 wife! 
 
 EL CAP. (crossing L. striking him) Silence, you fool! 
 
 JUAN. ' points to head) There is where vou struck me before. It aches 
 yet; and that was a long lime ago! 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 26 
 
 EL CAP. (pushing him down witti font) Be quiet, I tell you! 
 
 AGU. Senor! He is an okl man and mad! Ymi are a coward not to have 
 mercy! (,EL CAPITAN raises tcnife to stab AGUILA; he smi.es defiance to 
 him ) 
 
 EL CAP. What! I— 
 
 AGU. Do you thiniv an Indian is liice a Spaniard — a coward, atraid to die? 
 Strike! (picture) 
 
 EL CAP. (sheathing dagger) Mercy! You talk Mke a fool! (crosses R.) 
 Sc liere, lads. Go to the lower pass. There is a rich prize coming today; 
 an old rich senor and his servai;ts. Pluck the pigeons and if they are well 
 behaved, let them olT with whole skins. He is a fat sheep, and we may have 
 a chance to shear him again when his new fleece has grown; so don't kill him 
 this time, mind! 
 
 ROBBERS, (out R.) All right. Senor Capitan! (CARLOS and JONES an- 
 swer ihis.) 
 
 EL CAP. Vasquez, you, Miguel and Sancho go with El Alacran, Viconte, 
 Chico and Gonzales to the lower bridge. Pancho, with the others, wait at 
 the gorge abovf and follow the game to the bridge lo attack them in the 
 rear 1 must go first to my hacienda; then to meet you, Bcrnal, at the 
 island. 
 
 BER. (speaking as it to others off R.) Come, boys, let's be off. (he exits 
 D. R. 1) 
 
 MAT. And me, Senor Capitan — shall I go v ith the others? 
 
 EL CAP. No, Matador, you stay here and watch your pets and guard the 
 cave. Don't get your head so full of gin that you lose your brains. 
 
 MAT. Trust me, Senor Capitan; I'm not such an ass as to put my neck in 
 a halter! 
 
 EL CAP. Be careful thJ.t you don't! There are soldiers in the neighbor- 
 hood and your love of liquor will be the death of us all some day, I fear. 
 
 MAT. I'll not touch an ther drop today, Senor Capitan! 
 
 EL CAP (speaking off r.) Come, be oft" now, and good luck toyau! 
 Make a quick add clean job of it and don't let the grass grow under your 
 feet when it is done, .e careful you are not watched; and if you are, remem- 
 member — "Dead men tell no tales!" 
 
 BERNAL and ROBBERS, CARLOS and JONES, (off R. 1) All right, Senor 
 Capitan! 
 
 EL CAP. (mockingly to AGUILA) Adios, friends! 1 hope soon to bring 
 a guest who will unseal your royal lips! 
 
 AGU. The saints grant you may not! 
 
 EL CAP. (crossing R.) Watch close, Matador! (makes feint at MATADOR 
 with dagger) 
 
 MAT. Don't, captain; I'm ticklish. 
 
 EL CAP. And remember, no more gin! 
 
 MAT. Not another drop, Senor Capitan! Not another— (EL CAPITAN 
 exits R.) drop — (getting bottle) 'nother drop— drop — drop! (he drinks, 
 then locks door) (sings) "A woman to love and a bottle of brandy, 
 A good game to play and a good song to sing; 
 When fat-purses travel, a in;. chette handy. 
 And I wouldn't change with an abbot or king!" 
 
 JUAN. They say swans sing befoae they die. 
 
 MAT. Here! I want to sleep! If you make a ristand wake me, 1' 1 fan you 
 with this! (throws whip at JUAN; AGUILA starts at MATADOR) And you 
 too! Don't you wake me either! 
 
 AGU. Have no fear. When I wake you, 'twill be to your own funeral. 
 
 MAT. I'll have another drink first and the devil take the captain — captain 
 take the devil — he'll take anything he can get! (drirrks; throws himself on 
 blanket R.) I'll tame the cattle, I'll— I'll— (sleeps) 
 
 AGU. (who has watched him as he goes to sleep) Is the drunken dog 
 asleep? Yes, as fast as death! Now to try the strength of these chains! (lugs 
 on chains, tears them from floor with a crash; MATADOR wakes) 
 
 MAT. (starting up) What! Broke your tether, eh? 
 
A ROYAL SLAVE. 27 
 
 AGU. (with chain for weapon) Back, I say, or your path lies over your 
 grave' (MATADOR rushes for AGUILA; they clinch; AGUILA bites MATA- 
 DOR'S wrist and he tlrops knile L.; ihey strugj^le C; AGUILA throws him oflf 
 L ; JUAN stabs him in back; MATADOR turns; JUAN stabs him in breast; 
 MATADOR fails C, head to R. During light, JUAN works wildly at chains 
 with MATADOK'S keys.) 
 
 JUAN, (wildly, during preceding struggle) Kill him, Aguila! Kill him! Kill 
 him! Ha, ha, ha! Down wiMi him! itc. (till he gets knife and stabs MATA- 
 DOR; when he falls, get whip quick and lash body; pause to gloat and laugh) 
 Ha, lia! 1 knew 1 d pay him back! (lashes him again) Take thai! and that! 
 and that! (stops again) Ha, ha, ha! He dropped his keys, and 1 hid them 
 there in the blanket! (business) 
 
 AGU. The keys? Where are the keys, Master Juan? (searcWng L. for them, 
 finds them; throws blanket off L.) Ah, here they are. (JONES knocks out R. 
 1; AGUILA runs R., raising chains) Who's there? 
 
 JON. (without) Open in the name of the law! 
 
 AGU. Senor Jones? 
 
 JON. (without) Yes, witl. my American "Bull-dog" and the whole Mexi- 
 can army! Open this rat's nest or I'll open it for you! (AGUILA unlocks di. or 
 and JONES enters R ; AGUILA crosses c ) Aguila! 
 
 AGU Yes, senor. 
 
 JON. A dead man and a maniac! Who is this? (JUAN whips body again) 
 
 AGU. This is my old master, Senor Juan Alvarez, of Pueblo, (takes off 
 his own chains) 
 
 JUAN, (courteously) Your servant, gentlemen! Excuse me! I am killing 
 a snake! (cuts body) 
 
 AGU. Fiist to let the guards yonder throw this drunken dog down the 
 canon, (dragging body R.) I told you I'd w;ike you to your own funeral! 
 You see 1 keep my word! (to guards off R) Here, men! Away with him! (he 
 exits R., dragging body off,) 
 
 JON. (finding MATADOR'S bottle) What is this? Poison! (smells) Oxy- 
 gen! (smells) Hvdrogen! (smells) Holland gin! Commonly cal ed gin and 
 water, drinks, spits it out with wry face) Rats! 
 
 AGU. [re entering rapidly] Senor, they have gone to surprise the Casa 
 de Ora, to bear away the little senorita! For Heaven's sake send guards there 
 to defend it. Take Master Juan with you. 
 
 JUAN, [springs L. with knife raided] No, no! I am free — free! 
 
 AGU. [crosses to him] Master Juan, give me the knife! 
 
 JUAN, (wildly) No, no! I will not! 
 
 AGU. Master Juan, don't you know me? I am your old peon. Aguila — 
 your faithful old Aguila. Don't you know me? 
 
 JUAN, [lowering knife] Yes — iSo you are! Did they kill you? [AGUILA 
 takes knife] He struck me here. See the dent? 
 
 AGU. There! Go with the g .od Senor Americano! [JUAN draws back] 
 He will take vou to the g >od Padre Dommgus and to little Isabella. 
 
 JUAN, [starting to go] Yes, I'll go to Padre Domingus. [stops] Is he — 
 the Si-nor — your friend? 
 
 AGU. Yes, Master, mine and yours. Come, trust him! [JUAN hesitates] 
 Trust him for my sake! [he comes; AGUILA puts JUAN'S hand in JONES'] 
 There, senor! Take him to the good Padre Domingus. He is both priest and 
 physician. He will cure his head for him. 
 
 JON- But you, Aguila— where are you going? 
 
 AGU. I go to El toro to save the little senorita or die defending her! [he 
 exits quick R. 1. JONES leads off JUAN; pretty business. Scene changes. 
 JONFS wnistles off scene.] 
 
 SCENE 2 - -The Island of El Toro by moonlight. N. B. — This scene must be 
 Set befo'e the act, and, if possible before the piay. Handsome moonlight 
 ocean at back. Island platform r. u. e at back to c. at bck. Steps c. to 
 go up on island. Plai form must go off R. u E. Wood wings R. 1-2-3-4; 
 horizons L. 1-2-3-4. Sky borders. Set waters or sea-cloth from 3 down to 
 
A IlOVal si.ave. 28 
 
 ground-rows in l. Waters to dive under in front of island platform. BER- 
 NAL rows on boat at rise rrom l. u. e.; stops at steps c, dragging ISADORA 
 up out of boat. 
 
 BER. [lifting her] Come, senorita! Here we are. You must wait here 
 for the capitan. 
 
 ISA. (speaking as he drags her up roclcs and binds her to stump c) Oh, 
 senor! By the memory of your mother, whom you must have loved, I beg 
 you to let me go! 
 
 BER. (doggedly) Can't do it, I tell you; I must obey orders. 
 
 ISA. Oh, spare me, senor! You are a brave, strong man; you cannot fight 
 with women! 
 
 BER Come, no more of your whimpering! I shan't harm ye; and if ye 
 don't put on airs with the captain, ye'll live like a queen! 
 
 ISA. (appalled) Oh, senor! In mercy kill me! I will kiss your hands, red 
 with my blood, and die blessing you! [>in<s, half fainting] 
 
 BER. Shut up, I tell ye! I must see all safe around here and then go back 
 for the capitan. [going r. 4] She's a devilish pretty one! I'ld like to have 
 her for myself if it wasn't for stealing her from the capitan! [exit r. u. e.] 
 
 ISA. Santa Maria! Hear and save me! Poor old papa Aguila! Would they 
 had killed me as they have you! How gladly would I lie dead now in your 
 kind, strong arms, where 1 have slept so. often when a child! Come to me, 
 Aguila! Come to me! 
 
 AGU. [swimming on L. 4] I am coming! 
 
 ISA. (cries out joyfully) Aguila! [SHARK appears] See, Aguila! The shark! 
 
 AGU. [fights SHARK; lands on island] Still, or we are lost! 
 
 ISA. Oh, Aguila! Are you hurt? 
 
 AGU. [untying her cords] No, my child! Thank Heaven I am here to save 
 you. [noise out r ] Ah, quick! Crouch yonder among these rocks, [she 
 crouches at c. as BERNAL speaks out R.; AGUILA on guard with knife.] 
 
 BER. (out R.) What riot is this? Has the little fool gone mad? [enters] 
 What! Free? 
 
 AGU. Yes! [springs at him; fight with knives. During fight, SHARK'S fins 
 show above water, AGUILA bites BERNAL's wrist; stabs him; BERNAL is 
 thrown out into the sea.] 
 
 AGUILA. [on picture] The shark steals the buzzard's feast! [Picture. 
 CURTAIN. Second picture: AGUILA, with ISADORA kneeling by him, cling- 
 ing to him; SHARK has BERNAL'S head in his mouth.] 
 
 END OF ACT IV. 
 
 ACT V. 
 
 SCENE same as Act III, with night backing back of window; ca idles on ta- 
 ble lighted. All lights in theatre fixfd to turn down or out on cue and up 
 quick. INEZ discovered recHning on sofa r. of c. window. PEDRO standing 
 near her. 
 
 PED. So, Countess, our feud is ended. We are friends once more, eh? You 
 pardon me? 
 INEZ. Fully, senor; and more — I ask yo.'r pardon. 
 PED. (kissing her hand) Not at al , senora! 
 
 INEZ. When I learned that Senor Castello was not dead, my anger against 
 you softened, I wrote you that letter asking your pardon for" my hasty 
 words and requesting an interview. I wished to tell you that if you so de- 
 sired, we will proceed with this marriage at once. 
 PED. (bows) Senora, it is my dearest wish. 
 
 INEZ. This marriage once accomplished, we are masters of the situation 
 and our enemies completely outgeneraled. 
 
 PED. Yes, senora. Once in my house, as my wife, they will take their 
 lives in their hands if they attempt to meddle with my household! 
 
A ROYAL, SLAVE. 29 
 
 INEZ. 1 will bring in your bride. You will doubtless find her cold and 
 distant at first; but firmness and kindness will soun teach her how useless it 
 is to sigh for a lost lover; and she will soon see that her only chance of hap- 
 piness lies in courting the favor and esteem of her husband. 
 
 PED. Trust me, senora. I shall manage her when once she is my wife! 
 
 INEZ, (going R. 3) I will bring her here, (exit R. 3) 
 
 PED. (alone) So! I shall accomplish my purpose at last, and all legally! 
 Stie shall be mine, body and soul! No human will has ever yet opposed me 
 that 1 have not crushed! And I will not now be balked by a puny girl! As 
 fur her lover, I can have him removed! We shall see who wins! 
 
 INEZ, (enters with ISADORA) Senor, here is your promised wife! (to 
 ISADORA) Child, prepare yourself at once, to be married to Count Pedro. 
 
 ISA. (C. aside) Will Aguila keep his word? (aloud) Senor, I ;1o not love 
 you! 
 
 INEZ. (R. C, aside to her) Bewarei You know me! 
 
 PED. (smiling) You will learn to in time, senorita! 
 
 ANN. (-^nters L. u.) If you please, senora, there is a Holy Father outside, 
 who fears to go down to the Passo at night and asks permission to wait 
 here until morning. 
 
 INEZ. Tell him to come in. 
 
 ANN. (at D. L. U.) Enter, Father, (goes to CD.) 
 
 PRIEST, (entering) Benedicite, my children! Senora Countess, pardon 
 my intrusion I am belated on my way to Puebla. My mule is lame, and the 
 night is on me. These passes are infested by El Capitan and his band. I am 
 foiced to ask your hospitality till morning when ! c. n continue my journey 
 ill safety. (Positions: INEZ L. c, PRIEST C, PEDRO R., ISADORA L.) 
 
 INEZ. You are most welcome, Holy Father! This is Count Pedro Martinez 
 of Puebla. [PEDRO bows] 
 
 PRIEST. Benedicite, my son! 
 
 INEZ, Father, we need your good offices to celebrate the union of this 
 gentleman and lady at once. 
 
 ANN. (up c ) I wish 1 had set the dogs on him! 
 
 ISA. (starts up defiantly) I will not marry him! You may kill me if you 
 will — I care not! 
 
 PRIEST, [crosses L.] Calm yourself, my child, (to INEZ) Is she your 
 daughter, senora? 
 
 INEZ. Yes, Father; though a most willful and disobedient one. She is in- 
 fatuated with a young and worthless adventurer. I have selected a worthy, 
 wealthy and honorable husband for her; one who can give her position, title 
 and luxury; and you see how the ungrateful child opposes my love and care 
 
 PRIEST, My child, you owe obedience to your motlitr. You should let 
 her wisdom guide your impetuous youth. 
 
 ISA. (appeaiingly) But, Father, 1 do not love him. Would you have me 
 make a mockery of Heaven's blessing by letting you bestow it upon a love- 
 less marriage? 
 
 PRIEST. Hive faith, my daughter, that Heaven will send you love, (point- 
 edly) "By faith the dead have been brought back to life!" Remember the 
 story of Lazarus — "Though dead, he yet lives!" 
 
 ISA. (surprised; aside to him) Those words! Who are you? 
 
 PRIEST, (warning her) Ssh! [smuggles letter to her, unseen by the others] 
 
 INEZ. I thank you, Father, for your ho y counsel to my wayward child! 
 We Will leave you with her, while I give orders for your entertainment, and I 
 trust she may profit by your good advice. Come, Count! [they exit r. 3, 
 PRIEST giving them the blessing.] 
 
 ANN. (half hidden by curtains) 1 don't believe he's a Holy Father at all, 
 or he wouldn't try to marry her to an old monkey that she hates! 
 
 ISA. Who are you? 
 
 PRIEST. Fear not, my child I know your story. 1 am the friend of Padre 
 Dumingus, your friend Passing his parish the day your mother brought you 
 here, he commissioned me to prevent her placing you in a convent, and to be 
 your friend in need as he would be. But read your letter. 
 
A KOYAL STiAVE. 30 
 
 ISA. (opens letter and reads) "Trust the Holy Father. He is our friend. 
 Let them go on with the wedding. You are surrounded by friend.'=. We will 
 be there at the proper time. Carlos."' (kisses letter) Dear, brave Carlos! 
 
 PRIEST. (ANNEFTA comes down c.) My child, you are her friend, are 
 you not? 
 
 ANN. Why, Father, I would die for h.r! 
 
 ERIEST. Well, my child, the American senor — ah, you blush! You love 
 him! A woman may always be trusted where she loves! He sends word to 
 you to have the dogs tied on the other side of the house — away from the 
 window; you understand? 
 
 ANN. Yes, Father, [exit ANNETTA D. L. 3] 
 
 PRIEST. There, poor child! Prepare for your wedding, and at the final 
 moment there shall be a change of bridegrooms! 
 
 ISA. (clasping her hands) Heaven bless you, father! [INEZ and PEDRO 
 enter at back from r. 3] 
 
 PRIEST, [signals their presence to ISADORA] There! Calm yourself, my 
 child. Go and dress for your marriage and leave the result to Heaven! 
 
 ISA. (seemingly yielding) I will do as you bid me. Father; and Heaven 
 grant it mav be for the best! (PRIEST gives her blessing; she exits D. R. 3] 
 
 INEZ. I am much indebted to you for the wonderful influence you have 
 gained over her. Father. 
 
 PED. (down R.) It seems wonderful that you could so completely have 
 subdued her opposition! 
 
 PRIEST. Kind words will lead a child where death could not drive her. I 
 have a nephew who can be ru ed by no otl.er means. He is kind-hearted; but 
 such a wag! I believe he would play his pran s upon the Saints! Here are 
 some candles he gave me as I staited. I tremble to use anything from his 
 hands without first testing it; and I mistrust these innocent-looking candles! 
 [ANNETTA enters D. L. 3 and crosses to R. near door.] 
 
 PED. Those candles? Mistrust them? And why? 
 
 PRIEST, (dryly) H;s candles do not always burn evenly; and for fear 
 that these are not staid, sober and well-behaved candles, I will- -with your 
 permission — light one outiiae the wmdow; as its capers, if it be frolicsome, 
 will do no harm there, [goes to window with candle from table] 
 
 INEZ, (laughing) The young rogue, to play tricks upon his uncle ihus! 
 
 PRIEST. It is a young rascal! But 1 love him for it! I was a boy myself 
 once. Heaven forgive my wild pranks! [lights rocket candle] Ah, I thought 
 so! The young monkey! Ha, ha, ha! [INEZ and PEDRO laugh; song outside] 
 (aside) They see it! 
 
 INEZ, [to PEDRO, who seems surprised at song] Only some belated muli- 
 teers, on their way to Puebla. 
 
 ISA. (entering in bridal dress) Well, Father, I am ready. 
 
 PRIEST. Ah, my child, you are a good and obedient daughter. Give your 
 hand to this gentleman! (PRIEST goes to table L , put out candles. Lights 
 down.) Ho\v stupid of me! I have put out the candles! I will relight them. 
 [During the darkness AGUILA springs in window with sword, throws ISA- 
 DORA round to CARLOS, who has entered L. 3 E., points sword at PEDRO'S 
 breast. JONES enters through window.] 
 
 AGU. Dog! (lights up) 
 
 PED. (amazed) What does this mean? 
 
 JON, (at PEDRO'S R.) It means that we are about to reverse the rule and 
 give away the bridegroom! 
 
 INEZ, (extreme R ) Senors, leave my house! I am mistress here and this 
 intrusion is most insolent. More, it is a violation of the law, for which you 
 must answer! 
 
 JON. Senora, we are here on business of the state, and can't accept your 
 pressing invitation to take a walk. We can't tear ourselves away so uncere- 
 moniously! 
 
 INEZ. Such insolence! 
 
 JON. Don't stick your fingers in this mess of porridge, or you may burn 
 them. 
 
 PED. (to PRIEST) Trickster! This is your work! Who are you? 
 
A ROYAL, SLAVE. 31 
 
 PRIEST, (throwing off cowl and beard) Padre Domingus! (pause) Who 
 has assumed this disguise to save this poor, persecuted child from the 
 clutches of a robber! 
 
 PED. A robber! What do you mean? ,, 
 
 CAR. [coming down L. c.] It means, Pedro Martinez, that you are our 
 prisoner! 
 -PED. Upon what evidence? 
 
 CAR. Mine, and these gentlemen. This locket, taken from the body of 
 your victim, Juan Alvarez, you lost where you fought me by the river. I ac- 
 cuse you of being El Capitan, the noted robber chief, and ef all the countess 
 crimes that have made you the scourge of this republic for so many years. 
 
 PED. (laughs dellantiy) Is this your proof? I'll show you how worthless 
 it is. I bought that locicet years ago from a Jew in the City of Mexico, and 
 it bore so strange a resemblance to the little senorita. whom I loved, even as 
 a child. You see, senors, your evidence is trash! [AGUILA leads on JUAN] 
 
 CAR. Stay! Not so fast! Here is a witness whose evidence you cannot so 
 easily gainsay! 
 
 PED. (quickly) What testimony do you expect to gain from him? He is 
 mad! 
 
 JON. (quickly, tapping him on shoulder) How do you know? 
 
 PED. (confused) Well, I could see by his eyes that he was not sane! 
 
 JUAN. (L. c ) I am as sane as you are! You struck ine on the head and 
 dented the skull. The blow made me insane. The good padre relieved the 
 pressure on the brain and my reason returned. So you see, senors, he had no 
 way of knowing that I was insane except by his knowledge of my previous 
 condition, [crosses quickly down to extreme L., as PEDRO bolts for win- 
 dow; is met on point of AGUILA'S sword; down r. c.) 
 
 CAR. Your attempt to fly is almost enough to condemn you. (to JUAN) 
 Is this man El Capitan? 
 
 JUAN. Yes, senor. 
 
 PED. 'Tis false' This man is mad, I tell you! Even though he fancied he 
 saw a resemblance, that proves nothing! His evidence is worthless! 
 
 AGU [coming down c, L. of PEDRO] But mine shall crush you! 
 
 PED. [sneeringly] Indeed! Since wnen has the evidence of a dog of a 
 s ave been sufficient to crush a man of wealth, power and noble blood? 
 
 AGU. Noble! In years gone by my fathers ruled in this fair land! Their 
 gentle sway hy, like a happv maid, that, smiling, slept upon a bed of roses, 
 her fair hands clasped by either sea. The stranger came — a man like you — a 
 robber and a murderer, who wore the Cross of God above a heart where 
 coiled things of Hell! You are the whelp of that Spanish robber, Cortez! I 
 am the child of a King! 
 
 PED. (detunt'y) Well, wretch, what can you tell? 
 
 AGU. Listen, senors! Fouri.een years ago I gave El Capitan, the bandit 
 chief — the scourge and curse of Mexico — a slash with my machetta, here, on 
 the left shoulder. Let u-: see if this noble Count Pedro bears that mark of 
 Cain! [PEDRO rushes ?t him with dagger; AGUILA seizes his wrist, forces 
 him to his knee and disarms him Picture. AGUILA throws dagger down r. 
 C, tears open PEDRO'S shirt collar, showing scar.] Senors, behold! Bmd 
 aid away with him! [throws him c. into arms of JONES and CARLOS; he 
 struggles, then calm.] 
 
 PED. You've trapped the lion; see that you hold him! If he once breaks 
 his mesheis, beware! • 
 
 JON. [as two soldiers enter at L. 3] We've clipped your claws! Your 
 band are all killed or captured to the last man We've caught the whole bus- 
 iness — "Don Pedro, Sancho, High, Low, Jack and the game!" [throws him 
 into the hands of the guards] Gentlemen of the guard, guard the gentleman! 
 [they take him off D. L. 3] 
 
 INEZ. Senors, now that you have disgraced my house with this scene, I 
 trust you will relieve us of your presence, (to ISADORA) Come here, my 
 child! 
 
 AGU. (coming down c,) Hold! She is not your child! 
 
 ALL. Not her child? 
 
A KOYAL, STjAVE. 32 
 
 AGU. No! Your child died the day you turned your poor sister, Merce- 
 des, starving', from your door! I told her of your child's death and she 
 bejrjjed me to save her baby's lile by placint^' it in the dead one's cradle. You 
 have reared your siste.'s daughter! 
 
 INEZ, (furious) Tnis is a lie! A wicked lie! 
 
 i^AD. No, it is Heaven's. truth! Your sister told me the story as she was 
 dyinii; how you loved Juan and haled h'r that she had won his heart; and ol 
 the deception practised on you; but 1 never knew that Aguila was her a-sist- 
 ant. (to ISADORA) My child, you are not Isadora de Ora, but Isabella Al- 
 varez, and this gentlemm is your father. 
 
 JUAN, (clasps her) My child! 
 
 ISABELLA. Father! Carlos! Aguila! I have you all— ail! 
 
 INEZ, (with wild laugh) Yes, all— all! Ha, ha, ha! And I have lost all! 
 You, Carlos, were all to me, as he once was, and I have lost you! I sinned to 
 gain you! Ha, ha, ha! Fool that 1 was! Fool! [sinks on her knees, bui-ies 
 her face in her hands.] 
 
 CAR. (L. c ) Merciful Heavens! She is mad! 
 
 INEZ, (starting up) Mad! Am I mad? Oh, tell me, Carlos! You hate me 
 now; but you will forgive me when I'm dead! Gojd night, Carlos! Ha, ha, 
 ha! [going R.; she sees dagger, snatches it up and stabs herself before they 
 can prevent it.] Stand back, senors! [hands on breast] See the roses — beau- 
 tiful red roses! No! It is blood! My blood! [With a low cry she runs to 
 CARLOS, kneels and kisses his hand, rises, gasps and falls back dead.] 
 
 AGU. [bending over her] Dead! Poor Inez! Heaven pity and forgive you! 
 [Picture. PADRE back of them, cross raised or hands as if in asking Heaven's 
 pardon. ISABELLA L.in CARLOS' arms. JUAN L. of them. JONES up R. in 
 3, head bowed. PEDRO rings curtain.] 
 
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