PS 635 .Z9 C5 Copy 1 Z9 C56 pjpvv'M»*^**^**i~S«^*^*^*^^^^v*5~M»*M*«i*^^^^'5~M^. No. lo \?j FRENCH'S AMERICAN ACTING EDITION MYRTLE FERNS Un Hmerican domestic Drama in jfive Hots BY JOSEPH D. CLIFTON Copyright, X910, by Samuel Preach , CAUTION:— Amateurs and Professionals are hereby warned that 4, "Myrtle Perns" being fully protected under the copyright laws of the United States, is subject to royalty and any one presenting the play without the consent of the author or his authorized agent will be liable to the penalties by law provided. Application for the right to produce "Myrtle Perns " must be made to Samuel Prench, SI8-30 West 38th Street, New York City. PRICE, 25 CENTS. NEW YORK SAMUEI/ FRENCH Publishers «8-30 WEST 38th STREET I,ONDON SAMUEI/ FRISNCH, I,td. 26 Southampton Street, STRAND, I,ONDON FRENCH'S STANDARD DRAMA. Price 15 Cents each.— Bound Volume* $1.25. VOL. I. I Ion S Th« Ladj el Lyons 4 Richtllau f Tb< Wif« < Tb« Hotitymoon I Tb» Schoul tor Scandal t MontT VOL. II. t Th« Strau(rl» 11 90 Vtnici I'reitrYad SI Piaarro a Til* Lev* Chaia 93 Othello 94 Ltnd ma Flv» ShlUiiig« VOL. IV. 98 Virginia. 31 King of tha Commons 97 Loudon Anuranca 91 Tba Rent Day 99 TwoOentlemen ofVefom SO Tha Jealous Wifa tl Th* Rlrals 81 Ferfeotion VOL. V. [Debts U A New Way to P»y Old t4 Look Before You Leap 16 King John »» Nervous Man >7 Damon and I'vllilas It Clandestine Marriiige tl William Tell 40 Day after the Wedding VOL. VI. 41 Speed the Plough 41 Romeo and Juliet 41 Feudal Tiinss 44 Charles the Twelfth 41 Th* Bride 4t The Follies of « Night 47 Iron Chest [Fair Lady 41 Faint Heart Never Won VOL. VII. 41 Road to Ruin 10 Macbeth II Temper 19 ETadn* 18 B*rtram 14 Tb* Duenna 11 Much Ado About Nothing II Th* Critic VOL. VIII. IT The Apostate It Twelfth Night It Brutus ID Simpson k Co II Merchant of Venice 19 Old HeadsiYoung Hearts 13 Mountaineers [riage U Three Weeks after Mar- VOL. IX. (I Lot* II As Tou LIk* It 17 Tb* Elder Brother It Werner tl aisippus 70 Town and Country 91 King Lear 79 Blue D*rila VOL. X. Tl H*nry VIII 74 Vlarrled and lingle Tl Henry IV Tl Paul Pry 77 Guy Mannering 71 IweethearU and WWes 79 Serious Family go She Stoeps t* Conqusr VOL. XL Kl Julius Cseiir »i> Vicar of Wakefield i'i Leap Year 84 Th. Catspaw ii Th* Passing Cloud 86 liruiikard 81 R.ib Roy 88 Ueorge Barnwell VOL. XU. 89 Itigomar 90 Sketches In India St I Two Friends i; Jane Shore 93 Coriican Brothers 44 Mind your own Business Ss Writing on the Wall 91 Heir at Law VOL. XIII. 97 Soldier's Daughter V- Douglas 99 .Mnrco Spada lUO Nature's Nobleman 101 Sardanapalus lO'J CivlHiatlou 103 The Robbers 1U4 Katharine and Petruchio VOL. XIV. 106 Game of Lore 106 Midsummer Night's 107 Ernestine [Dream 108 Rag Picker of Paris 109 Flying Dutchman Hypocrit* 111 Therese 119 La Tour de Nesl* VOL. XV. 113 Ireland As It Is IH Sea of Ice 116 Seven Clerks 116 (jianie of Life in Forty Thieves U8 Bvyiin lioroihm* 11» Romance and Reality li;o Ugolino A .L. XVL 151 The Tempest l'."i The Pilot 123 Carpenter of Rouen 1 4 King's Rival 196 Little Treasure 126 Dombty and Son li" Parents' and Guardians 1S8 Jewess VOL. XVII. 199 Camllle l:IO Married Life 131 Weiilook of Wenlock 139 Rose of Ettrlckval* 133 David Copperfield 134 Aline, or the Rose ol 135 Pauline [Killarney 13« Jane £yr* I VOL. XVIII. 187 Night and Morning 138 .«lhlop i;9 Thre* Guardsman 140 Tom CringI* 141 H*nrlette. the Forsaken 149 Eustache Baiidin 143 Ernest Maltravari 144 Bold Dragoons VOL. XIX. 148 Drsd, or th* Dismal [Swamp 141 Last Davs of Pompaii 147 Esmeralda 148 P*ter Wilklns 149 Ben the Bottswaia 110 Jonathan Bradford 1S1 Retribution 119 Minerali VOL. XX. US French Spv 154 Wept of Wish-ton With lit ErilGeniut 111 Ben Bolt 117 Sailor of Franc* lis Red Mask 119 Life of an Actress 110 W*dding Day [Moscow VOL. XXI. 161 All's Fair ill Love 169 Hofer 163 Self 164 Cinderella 166 Phantom 116 Franklin 167 The G unmake 118 The Lor* of a Priuc* VOL. XXII. 169 Son of th* Night no Rory O'More 171 Golden Eagle 179 Rienil 173 Brokati Sword 174 Rip Van Wlnkl* 176 Isabell* 176 H*art of Mid Lothian VOL. XXIU. 177 Actrass of Padua 180 Cataract of the Ganges 181 Robber of the Rbin* 182 School ol Reform 183 Wandering Boys 184 Mazeppa VOL. XXIV. 186 Younr New York 186 The VIctiios 187 Romance after Marriage Brigand Poor of N*w York 190 Ambrose Gwlnett 191 Raymond and Agnei 199 Gambler's Fate VOL. XXV. 193 Father and Son 194 Mnssaui*IIo 195 Sixteen String Jack 196 Youthful Queen 197 Skeleton Witness 198 Innkeeper of AbbevilU 199 Miller and his Meu 200 Aladdin VOL. xxvr. 501 Adrlenne the Actress 209 Undine 903 Jess* Brown 204 Asmodeus 206 Mormons 906 Blanch* of Brandy wine 207 Viola 208 Deseret Deserted VOL. XXVII. 509 Americans in Paris 210 Viclorine 211 Wiiard of th* War* 919 Castle Spectre 21» Horse-shoe Robinson 2K Arniand, Mr:. Mowatt 21 ■. Fashion, Mrs. Mowatt 211 Glance at New York VOL. XXVUL 217 Inconstant 918 Uncle Tom's Cabin 919 Guide to the Stag* 980 Veteran 991 Miller of New Jerssy 222 Dark Hour liefore Dawn 921 Midsum'rNlglit'sDream [Laura Keene't Edition 994 Art and Artlflc* VOL. XXIX. 925 Poor Young Man 951 OssawattomI* Brown 227 Pop* of Rom* 291 OIiT*r Twist 2'.'9 PauTr*tU 2S0 Man In th* Iron Mask 231 Knight of Arva 239 Moll Pitchar VOL. XXX. •U Black Eyed Susan ■IM Satan in Paris 235 Rotiiia Meadows [ess 231 West End, or Irish Heir- 937 Six Degrees of Crime 988 The Lady and the D.vll 939 \Tenaer.orMoorofSlci. 240 Masks and Faces [1} VOL. XXXT. 241 Merry \VIt«s of Wlnd*or 949 Marv's Birthday 943 Shandy Maguir* 944 Wild Oats 945 Mlchaal Erl* 246 Idiot WituasB 247 Willow Cops* ipl*** Lawy*r VOL. XXXH. 949 Th* Boy Martyr* 960 Lucr*tla Borgia 961 Surgeon of Paris 919 Patrician's Daughtev 253 Shoemaker of Tool us* 954 Moui*ntous Question 266 Love and Loyalty 966 Robber's Wife VOL. XXXIIL 217 Dumb Girl of Genoa 2J8 Wreck Ashore 269 Clarl 260 Rural Fsllclty 261 Wallac* 269 Mad*Ialn* 263 Th* Fireman 964 Grist to th* Mill VOL. XXXIV. 966 Two Loves and a Life 266 Annie Blak* 267 Steward 268 Captain Kyd 269 Nick of th« Wood* 270 Marble Heart 271 Second Lov* 279 Dream at Sea Vol. XXXV. 273 Breach of Promis* 974 Review 276 Lady of th* Lak* 216 Still Water Runs Deep , 217 The Scholar 278 Helping Hands 279 Faust and Marguerlt* 2S0 Last M:ia VOL. XXXVI. 981 Belle'! Stratagem 2^9 Old and Young 983 RalTnella 284 Kulh Oakley 986 British 6lr .■« 266 A Life's Ransom 287 Giralda 28 Tim* Tries All VOL. XXXVIL 289 Ella RosenburK 290 Warlock of the Glen 291 Zelina 292 Beatrice 2f3 Neighbor Jackwood 294 Wonder 296 Robort Emmet 996 Green Buihes VOL. XXXVIII. 997 Flowers of thf Foreit 298 A Bachelor of Arts 299 The Midnight Banquet 300 Husband of m Hour 301 LoT*'s Labor Lost 302 Naiad Queen 303 Caprice 304 Cradle of Liberty VOL. XXXIX. 305 Th* Lost Ship 301 Country Squir* t07 Fraud and its Viotlms 30t Putnam 109 King and D*s*rt*r 310 La r Jimmlna ill A HardStruggI* 81} Qwlnnatt* Vaughan VOL. XL. tit Th* Lov* Knot [Judg* 114 LavaUr, or Not a fiad 311 Th* Nobl* H*art Sll Corlolanus 317 Th* Winter's Tal* 118 EveUen Wilson 319 Ivanhoe 390 Jonathan In England (French' t Standard Drama Continued on 3d page of Cover.) BAMUEL FRENCH, a6 W»«t aad Street, New York City. New and Explicit Descriptive Catalogfuc Mailed Free on Request. MYRTLE FERNS Hn Bmerican H)omestic Drama in 3f ive Hcts JOSEPH D. CLIFTON Copyright, 1910, by Samuel French CAUTION. — Amateurs and Professionals are hereby warned that " Myrtle Ferns" being fully protected under the copy- right laws of the United States, is subject to royalty, and any one presenting tbe play without the consent of the author or bis authorized agent will be liable to the penalties b}^ law provided. Application for the right to produce "Myrtle Ferns " must be made to Samuel French, 28-30 "West 38th Street, New York City. New York SAMUEL FRENCH PUBLISHER 38-30 WEST 38TH STREET London SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd. 26 Southampton Street, STRAND MYRTLE FERNS. Cbaracters. Chick (Wild but good) . . . Soubrette— star role Emma Myrtle (A true woman) Lead Edith (Sister of Chick) Juvenile Nelson Oak (The Master) Heavy O'Grady (The Slave) Lead Mr. Myrtle (One of the old stock) . . First old man Robert (His son) Juvenile Larry (A domestic) . . . Irish comedy. (Refined) Jake Worth (An old hunter) Character Morgan (A hunchback — Keeper of the jail) Character (Very particular) Dan (His pal) Utility Sheriff (One who does his duty Utility DOUBLES. Larry and Jake Worth. Mr. Myrtle and Morgan. Sheriff and Dan. Piece can be played wjth jthree ladies and six men — nine all told. The f,qur'ch act can be cut out — it does not affect story or plot. It was arranged for scenic effect — it strengthens piece. Scenic effect is not necessary. If you cut out Act IV Mr. Myrtle can double Jake Worth, which makes the only double. TMP92-008861 MYRTLE FERNS. , 3 Synopsis, Act I. — A little mountain home. Act II. — The Myrtle Mansion. Act III. — At the Ferns. Act IV. — Window jail. Act V. — Home again. Cast. — Three women and nine men. Played nicely with three women and six men. property? plot. ACT. I. Side Props. — Hunting bag and knife belt. Pipe for Chick in h. r. Knife for Worth — same as one Robert has — must be alike. Silk handkerchief for Oak. Large document for Worth. Rifle and rag on table R. — Old kitchen table and chairs. Double barrel shot gun ready l. u. e. ACT. II. Handcuffs for Sheriff. Game bag and belt — same as used in act. first. Elegant parlor furniture — Table and two chairs r. 3 — arm-chairs — two rocking chairs — sofa L. c. — Tap bell on table, r. 2 — easel with pictures. Upright desk at L. c. Bric-a-brac, etc. Newspaper on sofa. Four books on desk. ACT. in. 20 ft. rope r. c. — Six pieces of bark, on stage r. — Green bank or bench. Effects for thunder and light- ning. Large bass drum in good condition, and beater on prompt side. Two oars. 4 MYRTLE FERNS. ACT. IV. Two 32-revolvers— not loaded. Knife — Handcuffs — File for Chick. 20 ft. rope c. — Cot and pillow — blanket c. — Ax in r. 2. e. — Dinner pair l. 3. e. also chain to rattle. If scene effect— see that seacloth is down to line as per direction. Boat ready in l. 3. E. etc. ACT. V. Letter for Chick — Handcuffs for Sheriff. Same set as Act. second. Scene plot. ACT. I. Rocky pass in 4 — Set cabin in R. 2. E. — Run at back — Return piece c. — Wood wings obliqued. Well and bucket L. c. — Old stump, l. c. — 3. e. ACT. II. c. D. F. — in 3 — Backed by interior. Door r. and L. up stage. Box scene. ACT. III. Horizon in four — Ground piece cross at back — Stone wall cross in 3. — c. — opening — 4-ft. wide Gothic House l. 2. e. Verandah and steps. ACT. V. Same as act second. N. B. All doors to open off and up stage. MYETLE FERNS. ACT I. Dis. — Jake Worth r., seated at table cleatiing rifle. Jake. There, the old gun looks better. Like my- self, it is getting rusty for the want of a little work. There was a time when I could earn a good living with that old rifle. But now, I can scarcely get meat for the table. Chick {outside). Hello ! Hello ! Jake (?// c. looks r.). Hello ! Chick {outside). Hello! Jake. Hello ! Chick {outside). Hello — Hello! Jake {down to table r., sits). Here comes the youngster, now. {Eiiter Chick, running r. u. e.) Chick {out of breath). Dad— Dad— Oh, Dad. Jake. Well, what's the matter ? Did you fall in the river again ? • Chick. No. Jake. Well — can't you speak ? Chick. Can't you wait till I get my second breath? Oh, gee, Dad, it was a bustin' sight. Jake. What ? Chick. A big black bear ! Jake {rises). No 1 Chick. Well 1 I guess I know what I am talking about. Oh, Dad, if you hurry up, we'll get him sure. 5 Q MYRTLE FERNS. Come on, I will show you the way. (S/ie offers hand ■ — ^k¥.% passes R.) Jake {takes rifle). No, you stay here {Up c.) if your mother asks where I am — why, just tell her. {Exit, L. u. E, Chick (/// c). Oh, Dad, please, can't I go ? Daddy, can't I ? {Dozvn c.) Well, you bet the next bear I see I won't tell you. Think's he is cute. I'll be just as cute as he is. When I get hold of his gun I'll plug the, hole up, and when he goes to get another bear, the gun — Oh, gee ! the bear might get Dad. No, I guess I won't do that. {Exit, H. R. {Enter Robert a>id Jake, l. u. e. Robert lays gun and game-bag with knife in it on table.) RoBT. I knew I should find thep lace. {To Jake.) Who lives here ? Jake {remains c). This, sir, is my home, not much, I must confess. But it has sheltered me and mine, over forty years. RoHT. Indeed I I was born in this neighborhood, and until the present time was ignorant of so romantic a spot, no doubt would have remained so had I not lost my way in the woods and met you. Jake. Did I understand you to say you were born in this neighborhood ? RoET. Yes, sir. Jake. And the name ? RoBT. Robert Myrtle. Jake {starts). Of Myrtle Ferns, the son of Henry ? RoBT. The same. Did you know him ? Jake. Yes, a stern, proud man. But there, I am glad to have been of service to you. RoBT. Thanks. But your arm Jake {red handkerchief around right arm). Only a scratch, but it was a close call. RoBT. The bear you killed ? Jake. No, I didn't kill him. RoBr. But when I came up he was dead. Jake. Not by my hand. 1 fired, but only wounded MYRTLE FERNS. 7 him. Before I could reload he was upon me. I never knew what it was to fear, but when I felt his hot breath on my face, I lived over the past years of my life. I thought of my poor old wife and two loving children. I was about to say good by to this world, when from the bushes there sprang a wild, half starved being. Though slight of frame, he must have possessed the strength of a giant. He grasped the bear with one hand, and with lightning rapidity drove his hunting knife home with the other. Then, raising his head he said : " Thank Heaven I have been able to do one good deed." And before I could thank him he disappeared. RoBT. Strange. What was he like ? Jake. It was done so quickly, I can scarcely re- member. He was in rags and had some kind of a red cloth around his head. ( Crosses to H. R.) But come into the house. You must be hungry after your long tramp. There ain't much, but what there is you are welcome to. \_Exit, h. r. RoBT. {tip to door, H. R.) I despise myself for this rascality. I should have informed him of the truth. That it was this little mountain home I was in search of. Where T knew I should find her, my Edith. Well, there is but one way. When you do a wrong, right it like a man. \_Exit, h. r. {Enter Oak, l. u. e.) Oak. As I expected, the nest of a pretty bird. This is where my aristocratic friend — no, not that, for he has no love for me. I might say my future brother-in-law passes so much of his time. I wonder where my slave O'Grady is. I must be careful of him or he will die on my hands. {Cal/s off L.) O'Grady, O'Grady. {Crosses to r.) Here he comes and staggering like a drunken man. {Enter O'Grady staggering, fall c, very ragged ?nake up and pale.) Well, what's the matter ? Can't you stand ? O'Grady. Hardly. I am so weak — weak — for the want of food, and I must have it. 8 MYRTLE FERNS. Oak. I will bring it to you at the cave. O'Grady. I will never go back to that hole again. Oak. But the detectives ? O'Grady. Let them come. We will go to jail to- gether. For three days you have kept away from me. For three days I have scarcely tasted food. Why should I suffer for a crime that I never committed ? Oak. Not so loud. Our friend is here. O'Grady. Yes — I want to know all. I will no longer work in the dark. Oak. You will comply with my wishes, whether they be in the dark — Bah ! you will do as I say. O'Grady. Perhaps I Oak. Perhaps ! Refuse and see what will be the result. {Enter Jake f?om h. r., listens) The penalty for scuttling a ship,. I believe comes under the head of murder. O'Grady. Murder ! Oak. I don't say that you are a murderer, though a jury might, and render a verdict accordingly. I have McNeily's confession, also the agreement that was drawn up to scuttle the good ship, St. Armery. . {Exit Jake in h. r.) I think we had better agree. {Crosses to R.) O'Grady {rises). That paper was in my possession, it was my intention to warn the authorities, but it was stolen from me. Oak. By who ? O'Grady. By you 1 Oak. By me ? O'Grady. Who else, since you have it ? Oak. It matters not. I have it, and you are not safe while it hangs over you head. You have got to earn it to gain your freedom. Will you do as I say ? O'Grady. What other chance have 1 ? Oak. As soon as I am married to this man's sister, you are free. If the father knew of the son's visit to this place, he would cut him off without a dollar. Should he disinherit Robert, all would go to the daughter, and as my wife, will eventually come to me. MYRTLE FERNS. 9 O 'Grady. Your wife ! Oak. Yes, she thinks favorable of me, and I have the old man's consent. Robert inherits the father's disposition, stern and independent. When the old gent takes him to task for his visits here, there will be a quarrel, and the results will be O 'Grady. That the father turns the son from the home to take in a stranger ! Why are you not content with the girl's inheritance, why do you wish to destroy a peaceful and a happy home ? Oak. If you fail to do as I bid, I swear I will never rest until you receive the full punishment of the law. The position of yachtsman is vacant at the Ferns. I shall secure it for you. O'Grady. In return, what am I to do ? Oak. Corroberate my statements. {Angry) Oh, go back to the cave, I will bring you a suit of clothes, then you can call at the mansion and ask for me. {Sits at table, R.) O'Grady {up c.) Heaven help me, what am I to do. He holds my freedom— my life in his hands. He said I was to have the position as yachtsman. Who knows, I may get that document back. If I do, I'll make him pay bitterly for all the misery that he has caused me. \_Exit, L. u. E. {Enter Jake h. r., crosses to c.) Oak. I wonder what has become of McNeily. I wish I had his confession. Jake. Well — sir, I have. Oak {rizes). You — why, sir, I don't know you. Jake. But I do you. Three years has changed you but little. Oak. You spoke of a confession of one McNeily. Jake. Yes, a dying confession. Oak. Indeed ! What did he tell you ? Jake. He told me how a party of men met in a grogshop one night, on the outskirts of Boston. How a young man was asked to drink, but refused. On being persuaded, he accepted cider that was drugged^ 10 MYRTLE FERNS. (Oak starts) after the drug had taken effect, he was forced to sign a paper to scuttle a ship. Oak. Your story is interesting. What was their object in scuttling a ship, and forcing the young man to sign ? Jake. I will answer your last question first. Their object in forcing the young man to sign was, they wanted him to do work they were afraid to do. In case he refused, they thought they held that which would force an innocent man to become a criminal. The instigator of this horrible crime, had a wife on board the ship. That was his reason for wanting her sank to the bottom of the ocean. You, sir, are that husband. To rid yourself of one, you sacrificed hundreds. Oak. What you say is Jake. The truth, I can and will prove it. Oak. You say you can prove it — how ? Jake. I was in the grogshop that night and over- heard your conversation. Oak [aside). Ruined 1 Jake. And I saw you give McNeily the money. Oak. Even so, that does not implicate me. Jake {holds up document). No ! But this does, a written confession signed by the dying man. Oak. What do you wish me to do ? Jake. Your duty to that poor wretch, and then, deliver yourself up to justice. Oak [crosses to L. 2 E.). I will do as you request. There is a favor I would like you to grant me that you will speak of this to no one until after to-morrow. That will give me time to arrange my business affairs. Jake. Very well. But don't try to escape, it will do you no good. Oak. I will not try to escape. \_Exit^ L. 2. E. Jake. Yes, he shall right O 'Grady. lie did me a good turn, now I'll save him. [Enter roct.) So you knew my daughter before, eh ? Well — well. RoBT. Yes sir, and to see her is why I am here \ MYRTLE FERNS. IX to-day. I would have informed you when we first met had I of known you were her father. Jake {with feeling). Would you object if a stranger knew it ? RoBT. You misunderstand me. I would not object if the world knew it. {E/ifer Edith h. r., Hstefis.) Jake. You are a true man. At first I did not understand you, but now I do. She is all we have except Chick, and we love her dearly. RoBT. {aside). So do I. Edith {crosses to c). Father, mother is waiting for you. Jake. Oh 1 Oh yes, I see. {Crosses to h. r.) I will leave you to entertain Mr. Myrtle. [^Exit,ii. R, Edith, I overheard part of your conversation. What were you saying to father ? RoRT. Do you want to know ? Well, I was apolo- gizing for a lie I told him. Edith. Oh ! You RoBT. Related facts. He asked if I would object if a stranger knew 1 came here. I replied not if the whole world knew it. And why should I ? Edith. Robert, you are a man of honor and ought to make any woman happy. Robt. Then, consider yourself happy. When are you going to have me ? Edith. Have you stopped to consider, what would your family say if they knew you had asked me to be your wife ? Robt. My family have nothing to do with my af- fections. I have had no opportunity to present you. Come with me, together we will return home. Edith. Oh! No — he — your father Robt. Will, I am sure, approve of my choice. Edith. He would never consent. Robt. Then, we will do without it. Come, do as I say and we will go to him. Edith. No, he must come to me. Then, if he is 12 MYRTLE FERNS. willing that his son should raise one from poverty to that of his own level, I will be only to happy to say I am yours. (^Holds out hands) {Enter Chick, r. u. e.) RoBT. {going to her). Then, he shall come to you. (Chick between them) Chick. Oh, gee — ain't you two nice, (^obt, laughs, crosses to R., sits) Oh, don't mind me, I ain't nobody. But I reckon, mister, you are some. RoBT. Well, I've made a favorable impression here at any rate. So you like me, do you ? Chick. Bully ! Edith. Chick, you must not speak so. RoBT. There, don't mind me. Chick. Oh 1 gee, I am just dying with excitement. I wonder if dad got that bear. Say sis, scratch my back, will you ? (Robt. laughs) Oh, go on, he don't care, do you, mister. Your sister scratches your back, don't she ? Robt. {laughs). Well- — not now, but she use to. Chick. You see, when I saw that bear, I was in such a hurry to tell dad, that my foot slipped and I fell, and oh gee — the sand got down my back, and I com- menced to slide, but I didn't go all the way to the bottom. Oh ! no, I was too smart for that. Robt. What did you do ? Chick. When I got half way down, I just flopped over, and my nose struck a rock, and I stood there. Robt. That's too bad — you must see a physician. Chick. What is that ? Edith {up c). Please, Chick, come. Robt. Let her remain. Why should you mind me ? Chick. I like you, and I guess sis does, too. Edith. Please, Chick. Robt. How do you know ? Chick. The other day I saw her kissing something — ^Oh ! she didn't see me. So when she went out of the room I picked it up — and guess what it was. Robt. What was it ? Go on and tell me. MYRTLE FERNS. 13 Chick. Getting anxious, ain't you ? RoBT. Yes — well ? Chick. It was a picture of you. RoBT, {lip to Edith). I know that your happiness is at stake as well as mine. Nothing shall seperate us. Edith. Chick, poor innocent child. You don't know what you have done. Chick. Say, mister, I didn't do any harm, did I ? RoBT. No, little girl — you only spoke the truth. Chick. Did I — it must have been a mistake, I seldom do. RoBT. You did this time, and I like you for it. Chick. No sir, T don't want you to like me. RoBT. Why not ? Chick. Because it might cause trouble in the family. \_Exit, i-u7ining R. u. E. Edith (Robt. and Edith goes c). Now, you can understand why I refuse you, partly for her sake. At your home they would loathe her, and that I could never stand. {Enter Jake, h. r.) Robt. I care not for my folks, why should you for yours ? Come, we will leave this place, and if the worst comes to the worst Jake. Heaven forbid — (Robt. crosses to R. Edith to L.) it is bad enough as it is. {To Edith) What does this mean ? Robt. 1 will tell you, sir. Jake. Not from you — {Crosses toi.. c, Edith /// c.) at our first acquaintance to day, you lied to me ! Robt. How dare you Edith. Remember, he is my father. Robt. And I, an honorable man. Jake. No honorable man would seek to turn the daughter against the father. {Enter Oak l. u. e., listens.^ Robt. Permit me to explain. Jake. Not one word 1 14 MYRTLE FERNS. ^ RoBT. I insist — you have a wrong conception of my last words. Edith. Father, you are mistaken. {^Exit Oak, l. u. e. Jake {up c). Your place is with your mother. Go in. (Edith crosses to d. r.) Yonder, sir, is your way. {To Edith) Go in ! (^jc/V Edith) I will see you to the opening of the woods. Take my advice and don't lose your way again. (R(JBT. picks up gun, crosses to L. u. E., takes only gun, leave hunting-bag and k7iifo on table.) RoBT. As you please, sir. Some day you will re- pent this. {Enter Chick h. r., listens at back) I am not one to forget an insult. {]akk points L.) No, you need not accompany me. I prefer to go alone. \^Exit, L. u. E. Jake (going to chair, r.). I knew there could be no good of his coming here. {Sits) If he dared to wrong her, I'd — (Chick kneels at his side) What did he mean — if the worst comes to Chick. Oh, gee 1 dad, you are all mixed up. He didn't want sis to run away from you, I know all about it. Jake. His last words, if the worst comes to the worst, we can leave this place. Chick {rises, pulling ]i>lKV. c.) Why, he meant if his daddy wouldn't consent, he'd marry Edith without it. Jake {laith feeling). Then, I have wronged him. {crosses to D. R.) Your sister — is she inside ? Chick. Yep — pealing 'tatoes. Jake. I'll see her at once. [^Exit, h. r. Chick. I wonder if dad got that bear. I guess not. I wish he had, though it might of saved lots of trouble. \^Exit, h. r {Encer Oak l. u. e., crosses to c.) Oak. The child overheard his last words which were a threat, and will remember them. (Picks up ^kni/e) Rather a pretty inscription. {Starts) Robert MYRTLE FERNS. 15 Myrtle ! Should this old man die, this instrument be- ing the cause of his death, Robert would be accused of the murder. {Lays knife on table, crosses to c. Enter O 'Grady, l. u. e., listens at back) The evidence of the child together with that knife would be sufficient. When I informed Mr. Myrtle of the son's visit to this hut, he would not believe me, and demanded proof. He shall have it. I will wait, it may come my way. \^Exity I.. 2 E. O 'Grady // c, Chick rims R. c.) Chick. You — you frighten me. Oak. I was only anxious for your sake, what have you ? Chick. A handkerchief with letters on. Oak {aside). Mine! I must have it, or she never leaves here. {Aloud.) Let me see it ? Chick. No — I don't like you, and you sha'n't have it. Oak. As you please, but, as you cannot read, you don't know whether they are letters or not. Chick. I can read a little — and I know one of the letters is Oak. Yes, yes- Chick. a big round O ! Oak. By all, that's bad ! Come, let me see it ! Chick. You will give it back to me — you can read, can't you? {Holds up handkerchief.) Oak. Yes, my dear. {Grabs handkerchief.) Has any one else seen this ? Chick, Only you and L Oak. You are mistaken, {Ptits handkerchief in pocket, crosses to L. C.) there is nothing on it. Chick {up c). You said you would give it back to me. Oak. You have no right to it, it is mine. Chick {ticrns quick). Yours ? Oak. Yes. Chick. Are you quite sure ? Oak. Yes, quite sure ! Chick. Then, it was you that killed my poor, old father ! Oak. What? Chick. Yes, you ! the last words he ever spoke were, find the owner of that handkerchief, and you will have my murderer I MYRTLE FERNS. 27 Oak. Silence ! How dare you speak so to me ! {Enter O'Grady, c. d. r.) Chick. I have a right to speak, and I will 1 Oak. If you do, I'll {^Starts for Chick.) O'Grady (betiveen them). Touch her, if you dare ! Oak. She knows too much — she must not leave here. O'Grady. She shall leave, and no one will harm her. Oak. Take care 1 If you interfere, I'll throw you from that window. O'Grady. Try it 1 What I am doing is for the best. Leave her to me, you have nothing to fear. Little one, the handkerchief is no clue. Chick. There is a name on it, I am sure. O'Grady. Will you not trust me ? Chick. Yes, for I like you, but I don't like him. O'Grady. Then, promise to say nothing of this interview, and I will do all that I can for you. Chick. I promise to say nothing — even to sis, but, you will try — won't you, to find who killed my poor old father? (O'Grady starts.) Perhaps you know — yes, you do know Oak. Yes, I Oak (Jias newspaper). The steamship, St. Armery, more news of that terrible disaster ! {Crosses to L. c.) O'Grady. I will aid you if I can. Go, now, and when you are outside — run — run as fast as you can until you are safe home. Chick. Home ? We have no home, now that poor dad is gone. \^Exit, c. D. l. Oak. Do you pity her ? O'Grady. From the bottom of my heart. Oak. You had better keep the sympathy for your- self, you will need it before I am through with you — that is, if you behave as you did a few moments ago. O'Grady. How much longer am I to be your slave ? Oak. Until I am married to Miss Myrtle I 28 MYRTLE FERNS. (O 'Grady starts.) Ah, I thought so ! Have you had any conversation witli her lately, I mean in private ? O'Gradv. Why do you ask ? Oak. That is my business. In the future, I forbid you to speak to her. It is dangerous for us both. O'Gradv. I don't understand. Oak. Then, I will make myself clear, you are in love with her. Do you take me for a fool ? When I spoke of making her my wife, you blushed to the roots of your hair like a schoolboy. You do love her, and there is no use denying it. O'Gradv. Well ? Oak. You will notify Mr. Myrtle you are going to leave. O'Gradv. I will do nothing of the kind 1 Oak {crosses to r.). Then, I will do it for you. O'Gradv {quick). You had better — (Oak looks at hi7n.) — allow me to remain. (Oak c. r., O'Gradv down R. corfier.) {Enter Mr. Mvrtle a?id Bob — Emma c. d. l., Emma do7iiti R. c, Mr. Mvrtle. a?id Bob down l. c.) Mr. Mvrtle. Here we are — here we are 1 I knew my son would not refuse to obey his old dad. Oak. Words cannot express my pleasure at seeing you and your son once more united. Robert, if I have offended you, I trust you will forgive me. RoBT. Certainly. I am not one to bare malice {Enter Larrv c. d. l.) Larrv. If you please Master Robert, there is a man outside — who wants to see you. RoBT. Admit him. Larry {looks l. c). This way, sir if you please. {Ejiter Sheriff c. D. L. with huntings bag and knife belt same that Bob used in Act I.) Sheriff {to Mr. Myrtle). Sorry to disturb your household sir. {To Bob.) You, sir, are my prisoner 1 All. Prisoner ? JHTRTLE FERNS. 29 RoBT. On u'hat charge ? Sheriff. !Murder I Robert. Oh, this is ridiculous. Mr. Myrtle. One moment, sir. Sheriff. I am doing my duty, sir. Mr. Myrtle. And there is no one here to oppose you. What proof have you that my son is guilty ? {Ta Bob.) Why don't you speak and say you are innocent ? Emma. He need not say — we know he is ! Sheriff. Hunting bag and sheath are yours — are they not. RoBT. Yes. Sheriff. They were found at the murdered man's cabin. The knife that did the work belongs in that sheath. {Up to Q. D.) Mr. Myrtle. If this be true, may Heaven forgive you — for — I — I never can. {Sinks on sofa, l.) O'Grady {to Oak). Don't you see you are killing the father as well as the son. Have you no mercy — no feeling ? (Oak in anger takes his hand to si/ence him.) Emma. Robert, look me in the face. (Bob does so.) No you are not guilty — though the evidence were ten times as strong — though the whole world were against you — I believe — I know you are innocent. Larry (c). And so do I I {To Oak.) Come out of that you and look at me 1 Emma. Larry ? Larry. Forgive me miss. But I believe those two know more than they are willing to tell. You Mr. Oak won't speak, because you're hard by name — and hard by nature. But you — who are you ? O'Grady. My name is O'Grady. Larry. You lie I The O'Grady's were men — not cowards 1 O'Grady. Coward ! Larry. Aye ! coward, if you were not that same, you'd speak out and tell what you know, and save this good family from disgrace. CURTAIN. 30 MYRTLE FERNS. ACT III. (Dis. — O'Grady seated on stump R., Oak c. with over- coat and document in hand.) Oak {holds up document). Do you see this. It is the agreement that was drawn up to scuttle the ship, and it is signed by you. Should it fall into the hands of the authorities, it would land you in jail — perhaps on the gallows. Think over my proposition and give me your answer in the morning, (i^;//*?/- Larry r. e. cross to L. when L. c. Oak, speaks to him.) Where have you been? Larry. If any one asks you — tell them that you don't know. Oak. I understand you are about to leave us ? Larry. I have me notice to quit, and I suppose I can thank you for it. Oak. I said your insolence would get you in trouble — you see I prophesied correctly. Larry. You did, sir. As to my discharge don't let that worry you, faith I am use to it. I get discharged one day and hired back the next. But this time I am not going to ask to be taken back. Oak. Why not ? Larry. I have a little work of my own to do, I am going to turn detective ! (O'Grady starts. Aside.) I thought so. {Aloud^ And if the Lord is with those who try to do right. I'll liberate Master Robert and place the rope around the neck of the guilty one. Oak. a grand resolve. To show how I appreciate your noble endeavor, I am going to aid you. {Cross to Larry.) Larry. I want nothing from you, give it to your second in command there — {Turns L.) you black hearted Oak. What do you mean ? Larry. Who's talking to you ? MYRTLE FERNS. 31 Oak. To who then ? Larry. Your betters — a snake that ran in the grass yonder. Oak. I have stood all from you I am going to, {Cross to R.) you shall leave this place to-day. Larry. Will I ? Oak. Go to the devil. [^Exit r. i. e. Larry. How can I when you run away from me, {Sees O'Grady.) I wonder what's the matter with this chap. Yonder goes your master, why don't you follow him ? O'Grady. I have no angry words for you, your heart is in the right place, and you try to do your duty. Larry {cross to h. l.). For the first time in my life I am lost for answer. I don't think he's as bad as I thought him. \^Exit H. L. O'Grady. Yonder goes your master, why don't you follow him. {Enter'EuuK and "Lakry h. l. Larry remains in door?) Emma. Who do you mean Larry? Larry. That poor chap over there. Speak a kind word to him. I think I have been the cause of makmg him feel bad. \_Exit, H. L. Emma. Speak a kind word to him. I wish he would let me. The moment I approach he will leave. Oh, I hate a man that won't talk. Mr. O'Grady, are yougoing to use the boat ? O'Grady (m^). No, Miss. {Up c.) Emma {cross to r.). Do you think the weather favor- able ? O'Grady. Yes, miss. Emma. Thank you. Yes ; miss — no miss, that's all I ever heard that man say. I wish he had never come here. No, I don't mean that — I — I don't know what I do mean, but I'll make him talk. Mr. O'Grady. O'Grady. Yes, miss. Emma. Am I so repulsive, that when we meet you endeavor to avoid me ? O'Grady, No — no, not that, if I seem ungentle- 32 MYRTLE FERNS. manly, it is because I am afraid of presuming. You must remember your position — and mine, your servant. Emma. Let us forget formality. Will you pardon my inquisitiveness .'' O'Grady. Certainly. Emma. Have you always followed the sea ? O'Grady. Not always. Emma {sit). Will you relate to me something of your past ? O'Grady. If you care to knovi^. Emma. I should very much. O'Grady. My past has not been a happy one. I am alone in the world — except a little sister, or rather she was little when I left my home. Pardon my weak- ness, but the sound of the word home recalls recollec- tions of the past. A father I scarcely remember, but a mother ! bless her dear old heart at the hearth stone of a night, with my sister, a little blue eyed lass on her lap, while I lay at her feet. I remember it as though it were yesterday, her parting words to me. You my son are going out in the world to do for yourself. We may never meet again, but let my words be engraven on your memory. Always be honest, upright and just. Emma. And I know you have. O'Grady. No, I have 'not. Emma {rise). You have not? {Turn r.) O'Grady. Don't — don't turn from me, I am no criminal. {She turns to him.) I want you to think kindly of me, and I dare not tell you that which hangs over my head and makes my life miserable. Oh, if I dared to trust — if I dared to tell you the cause of my downfall. Emma. You can trust me, your secret I will never reveal, and if I can, I will aid you. O'Grady. You shall — {Looks around) — know for I long to confide in some one. Six years ago, I was the owner of a fine plantation in Louisiana. Reverses came and I resolved to go east. Before doing so I left all in the hands of an old friend, with the understanding should he be able to do anything with the old place, I MYRTLE FERNS. 33 were to receive half. On my arrival east I became ac- quainted with a stranger. He pictured bright prospects to me — I listened to him for I was anxious to redeem myself. I cannot explain how, but that man got me under the influence of liquor for the first time in my life. Not knowing • what I was doing, I signed my name to a paper to commit a terrible crime. Emma. But you did not do it ? O'Grady. No, I did not ! Emma. You are not deceiving me ? O'Grady. As I hope for mercy hereafter I am speaking the truth ! Emma. And I believe you ! But this agreement ? O'Grady. Is held by this man — until I get it, I am Larry {outside). Wait a moment miss, I will send her to you. Emma {cross to h.). If you ever want a friend, don't hesitate to come to me. (O'Grady bo7us a?id exit, R. u. E.) (Enter Larry h. l.) Larry. If you please, Miss, there is a lady to see you. Emma. Ask her to step this way. Larry. This way miss, if you please. {Enter Edith h. l. Exit Larry h. l.) Emma. Miss Worth ? Edith. Yes. Emma. I have been expecting you, I am more than pleased, Edith. Your kindness — how can I ever repay you ? {Cross to 'R.) Emma. IBy helping me to exonerate my brother, and at the same time add to your own happiness. Edith. My happiness ? Emma. I know all, Bob's love for you and how he hopes one day to make you his wife. Edith. That can never be. 34: MYRTLE FERNS. Emma. Oh, yes it can. You allude to my father, it is for that purpose I invited you here. I am going to rechristen you. In the future you will be a Miss Summers. I informed father I was expecting a visit from the aforesaid lady. An old school friend of mine. Edith. Is he rich ? Emma. You must pardon me — but I anticipated, you will find every thing ready for the disguise. I under- stand your feelings in this manner — but remember it is for Bob's sake. I want my father to know^ — to learn to love you, as I am sure he will. Edith. I don't know Emma. But I do. Come Miss Summers — no come, sister. (Edith goes to Emma.) Larry. (JSnfer IjArry h. l.) Larry. Yes, Miss. (Cross to c.) Emma. See that Miss Summer's baggage is taken up stairs. Edith. Oh, I haven't any 1 \Exit with Emma h. l. Larry. It's all up there I That's the young lady. Oh, poor Master Robert, how my heart aches for him. Yonder is the jail. Five miles between him and his sweetheart. {Efiter Emma h. l.) Emma. Larry, do you know who that lady is ? Larry. Yes, Miss, I do. Emma. If necessary — would you object telling a lie for me ? Larry. Devil a one. I'll tell a dozen if you want me to. Emma, I want no one to know this lady is Miss Worth. Should any one ask, or if you are obliged to speak to her, remember she is Miss Summers, at least for the present. Larry. I never saw the lady before, and I'll swear she is Miss Summers till I'm black in the face. Emma. This deception may be wrong, but I am positive good will come of it. I can depend upon you ? MYRTLE FERNS. 35 Larry. Faith you can, but hold on — did you know I had been discharged ? Emma. Then I will reengage you. As long as I have a home you shall never want. Larry. And as long as I have life I will do all I can to deserve it. Have you heard from Master Robert ? Emma. Yes, his trial takes place to-morrow. He will be acquitted and we will have him home once more. Larry. I am afraid you are mistaken. Emma. Mistaken ? Larry. Yes, Miss, for those who put him there will not allow him to escape so easily. You see — should Master Robert be convicted, the case would end and the guilty have naught to fear. Emma. Should he be liberated ? Larry. The guilty would be hunted down. Now you see. Emma. You suspect some one? Larry. Yes, Mr. Oak 1 Emma. Mr. Oak ? What benefit could he derive ? Larry. You are promised to Mr Oak by your father, once his wife half your father's fortune would be his. Should your brother die or bring disgrace on the family, who would get the other half ? Emma. Oh, I must see Mr. Oak. {Start for h. l.) Larry, No, don't do that, leave it to me and I will save your brother. Emma. You will save him ? Larry. I have sworn that he should never be con- victed, and I'll keep my word. Find if your father has disinherited your brother. But don't let Oak know you suspect him. Emma. Trust me. And I sincerely hope you suc- ceed. {Exit, H. L. Larry. Faith, I hope I may. (Tiirtis r.) Here comes my bird now, and as I have no desire to see him, I'll follow Miss Emma. {Exit, H. L. {Enter Oak helping on Mr. Myrtle r. u. e. cross to chair C.) 36 MYRTLE FERNS. Oak. 1 am pleased you are better. Come sit here. (Myrtle sits.) You are fatigued, and must be careful not to exert yourself. Mr. Myrtle. Ask my daughter to step this way. I desire to speak with her. Oak. Certainly. {Cross to h.) Oh, allow me to place this coat around your shoulders. The air from the bay is chilly. {Cross to H. L. Place coat oti shoul- der.) Mr. Myrtle. Your kindness — your devotion to me I shall never forget. Oak {solemn). My dear sir, if we would all en- deavor to make others happy, how much misery and suffering might we not save in this world. \^Exit, H. L. Mr. Myrtle. Bob — Bob you are killing your old father. (Emma e?iter l. u. e. cross to c.) 1 am thank- ful his mother did not live to endure this agony. My son a murderer. Emma {knee/s). Father your son is no murderer! Mr. Myrtle. Would I could think so. But there, we will drop the subject, as it is an unpleasant one. I wish to speak of the future. Regarding Mr. Oak Emma. We will speak of him some other time. {Lays coat over back of chair) My school friend has arrived, I want you to meet her. I left Miss Summers when Oak called me. Mr. Myrtle {rises.) Certainly my daughter. We must not forget the courtesy due our guests {Exit, Emma) though we are obliged to carry heavy hearts. \_Exit, H. L. {Enter Chick r.u.e. run7iing.) Chick. He was here a few moments ago, for hours I have been watching him. I will not leave until I get that handkerchief. There he is in the house, and he will return it if — {Sees coat) His coat ! {Examines it — get dociitnetit — then get handkerchief from pocket. ) The handkerchief! Well you bet he won't get this again. He is coming, I'll just climb. [Exit riinnijig r; u. e. {Enter Oak. h. l. gets coat.) MYRTLE FERNS. 37 Oak. How stupid to leave this here. Had it fallen into other hands 1 might have been ruined. To- morrow is the da}' set for his trial, to-night he will be lynched. {Lang/ts.) How shall I ever survive the dis- grace of my willful brother-in-law. [^Exit, H. l. {Enter Chick and O'Grady r. u. e.) Chick. Say mister you ain't angry — are you? O'Grady. No, but it was wrong to return. Chick. I was so hungry ^ O'Grady. Are you hungry? Chick. Oh, gee ! I could eat a raw mattus. O'Grady. You mean a tomato. X^'ait, I'll get you something. {Cross to L.) Chick. No, don't go, I can wait. {Cross to l. c, O'Grady sits r.) Who is that man that just went in there ? I mean the one that stole my handkerchief ? O'Grady. Mr. Oak ? Chick. Oak — Oak ! He's got another name, hasn't he? O'Grady. Yes, Nelson Oak. Chick {aside). I wish I could read, I wish it now more than ever. Say, mister, can't you teach me to read, just a little ? O'Grady. Not now, I am in no humor, besides it would require patience and many weeks. Chick. You said you would do anything for me, and I don't ask much. O'Grady. You will have to wait until I can get you a spelling-book. Chick {picks tip piece of hark). Oh, this will do. You write two words on this, and I will try and spell them out. O'Grady. Oh — well, what shall it be ? Chick. Let me see, oh, yes, Nelson Oak. O'Grady {starts). No— no, not that, think of some- thing else. Chick. I thought of that first, and I won't have any other. 38 MYRTLE ^EUM. O'Grady. Just as you please. {Writes.) Nelson Oak. There, that will do. {Hands bark.) Chick {cross c). Yes, it will do for what I want. {Lights half down — put on rea. ) O'Grady. What is your name ? Chick. Chick, that's all — ain't much, is it ? {Flash of lightning and sou fid of thunder^ O'Grady. You are a nice little girl, Chick. But you use an expression that don't sound very ladylike. Oh, gee 1 Chick. You git out ! Say, don't you want to know where I live ? Let me know when you are coming, and I'll dust up a little. O'Grady. I certainly will call. {Lightning and thunder.) Chick. Not much, you won't! I am not receiving the attentions of young men — just yet. {Loud clap of thunder.) O'Grady. There is going to be a storm. ( Up c.) I must look after the boats. You remain, I won't be gone long. [^Exit, L. u. E. Chick {compares bark and handkerchief ). The same as on the bark, and the owner of this, is the one that killed my old dad. ( Up c.) Oh ! If I only had some one to help me. {Enter Larry h. l.) Larry. What, you? Oh, Lord! it's the sister, she'll recognize the other, and there will be the devil to pay. (7. R. {Enter Dan and Morgan d. l. Dan crosses to R. Morgan dozvn l. c. Robt lays on cot c.) Morgan. See if he's asleep. Dan. It don't matter. Get a rope to tie his hands and feet. That one will do to lower him out of the window. {To Robt.) So you are awake. Eh? Robt {sits up). What do you want ? Dan. I'll tell yer, I'm going to give you a bath, it's the rules of this institution, that all the prisoners per- take of that luxury. Robt. From your appearance, I should judge it was a luxury that you seldom indulge in, Dan. Well ! Thi^ is going to be your last, for in five minutes you will be a corpse. MYRTLE FERNS. 51 RoBT. Don't be too sure 1 Dan. Well, I am sure, {Takes hold ^ROBT. who throws him r. c.) RoBT. Well, my friend, you are mistaken. {As he tJirows Dan r., Morgan rises and draws hiife. (Chick e?iters d. r. up c. — As Morgan rises to strike Bob tvith knife Chick catches his hand and sinks knife into Morgan who drops c. Dan at actio?t gets axe in r. e. — raises it to strike when Bob holds him at bay, with Chick in his artns.) CURTAIN. ACT. V. Discovered, r. c, Mr Myrtle and 'Editk. Mr. Myrtle. I am surprised ! And the young scoundrel ? Edith. Loved me better than his life. We were so happy, but our happiness didn't last long. We were oblige to separate. Mr Myrtle, Separate ? But you said the young man loved you. Edith. Loved me 1 Oh, sir, the sound of his voice was music, the sight of his face like a bright ray of sun- shine. I watched for his coming with as much eager- ness as the ship-wrecked sailor at sea, watches for a sight of land. But there was a barrier ! Myrtle. Eh ? A barrier ? Edith. A stern parent, a father who could overlook any fault but poverty. He knew how we loved, the son pleaded in vain — though he sacrificed both our lives. His will must be done. {Cross to L. c.) Mr. Myrtle {up c). Come with me to the library. An upstart 1 Refused to let his son marry you, eh ? What did he want for him ? A Queen ? I want to see him, I will see him ! And when I do I'll punch the old fool's head. \^Exit c. d. l. 52 MYRTLE FERNS. {Enter Emma d. r.) Edith. What will he say when he learns of this de- ception ? Emma. He has learnt to love you, and will acknowl- edge his error. {Sits r.) Edith {sits l.), Any news ? Have they heard of Mr O 'Grady ? Emma. I — I believe not. Edith. Do you remember his last words ? Emma. I shall never forget them. It was selfish — cruel to permit him to go. And yet my brother would have been murdered. Is it not terrible ? {Enter Oak, c. d. l.) Edith. Let us be thankful no lives were lost. Oak (d. r. corner). Permit me to re-echo that senti- ment from the bottom of my heart. Emma {rises). You have seen — you know they have returned ? Oak. I have not seen, but heard they have arrived. Emma. Will you grant me a favor ? Oak. In your service I would lay down my life, and you know it. Emma. My brother just escaped from jail. It is absolutely necessary that fact remain silent. With the exception of Larry, Mr O'Grady, the rest are ignorant. Oak. Except young Miss Worth. Emma. Oh, no. Oak. Pardon me. She was at the jail last night. Emma. How do you know that ? Oak {confused). I — a — I — dox\\ know it Emma. You spoke the truth when you said you had not seen any of the returned part3^ Now, how do you know that Miss Worth was at the jail ? You were not there, for you are too big a coward to risk that precious life of yours in such a storm. You received your in- formation from those who failed to murder my brother. In which case you are in league with them. Oak. Do you know what you are talking about ? MYRTLE FERNS. 53 Emma. Perfectly ! Oak. Allow me to explain. Emma. Silence. Remember I am- Oak. My affianced wife. I will not forget it. Emma {sanasni). Your affianced wife? Have I ever encouraged, ever said I would marry you? Oak. Your father has. Edith (rises). Will you excuse me ? Emma. To oblige me, please remain. (Edith sifs) As to marriage with me, you may think it a matter of compulsion. If so you are entirely mistaken. I will never be more to you — than I am now. Oak. Let us defer the subject. When I entered the room you requested a favor. What do you wish me to do ? Emma. Be kind enough to allow us to remain alone. Oak (i>07as). Certainly, if you wish. {Up is., c.) {Enter Larry c. d. l., i-emains c. at back.) Emma. Larry! Faithful friend. My brother ? Larry. Here — safe and sound. Edith. I am thankful ! Emma. And Mr O 'Grady ! (Larry turns L.) Yot!i turn from me. Did he not return ? Larry. No. Emma. No. (Sinks in chair, R.) Oak. She loves him, I thought so ! Edith (rise). You, sir, have not complied with tha ladies' request. (Oak bows and exit q. v>. i,.) Larry, relate particulars, from departure until arrival. Larry. With luck, it was nothing else, we reached the jail just in time to receive Master Robert in the boat, some one had cut a hole in the wall, and we found him creeping through. On our way back the boat struck a rock, the tiller slipped from the rudder and was carried av/ay. Mr. O'Grady — Heaven bless him, — saw the danger, and knew unless he had control of the boat we would be lost. Edith. And then ? Larry. Oh I such a sight ! As the lightning played 54 MYRTLE FERNS. around the boat, we saw a sight never to be forgotten. O'Grady had substituted his arm for the tiller, and every wave that struck the boat caused his Hfe's blood to flow from his wounds. Oh 1 how my heart ached for him, for his arm was black to the shoulder. At last I picked up a piece of driftwood and shouted with joy, then I hastened to relieve him. But his hand had swollen so he could not pull it through. Emma. Horrible — horrible ! But he is alive ? You brought him ashore ? Larry. Heaven forgive me, Miss, we did not. The boat was fast sinking, I stood watching O'Grady's face, not a muscle moved, though he must have suffered a thousand deaths. He said : The storm is nearly over, the boat is fast filling, and one must leave it. Before I could speak, Master Robert said. Let it be me. And then. Oh 1 God — I saw O'Grady wrench his arm from the rudder. He was that weak, he could hardly stand. Taking the piece of driftwood he placed it, then he said — Larry, keep the boat straight ahead, if I never reach the land, tell Miss Myrtle (Emma rises slowly up c.) with my last breath, I blessed her. {Exit Emma, c. d. l.) And before we could stop him, he jumped over — sank from sight, and we saw him no more. {Cross to R.) Edith {up c). Are you sure he did not land ? Larry. I've been since daylight looking for him. Edith. I'll join Miss Myrtle. She may be ill. \^Exit, c. D. L. Larry {up to l. c). Why are all the good taken from this world and the bad left in it ? {Enter Chick handso7neIy dressed, c. d. r.) Chick. Oh, gee 1 Larry, I'm all dressed up. Larry. Where did you get all the fine clothes ? Chick. Well, I like that 1 Miss Emma gave them to me. How did you get back ? Oh I wasn't it a terrible night ? Larry. How did you know I had been away? Chick. Didn't I see you ? Didn't you see me? MYRTLE FERNS. 55 Larry. See you ? Where ? Chick. At the jail, of course. Larry. What ? You at the jail ? Chick. If I hadn't been, Mr. Robert wouldn't be here now- Larry. What are yoxi talking about ? Faith, I saw you last night at dusk, and I'll swear you didn't go in the boat with us. Chick. No ! I went by the road. Larry. By the road ? How ? Chick. On Mr. Myrtle's race-horse. Gray Eagle. Larry. You did ? That accounts for the hole in the wall ! Chick. Yep 1 I cut it. Larry. You little rogue, I'd like to pick you up in my two arms and kiss you. Chick. Of course you would, I'm dressed up now. You wouldn't have kissed me last night when I was in rags? Larry. I'd kiss you if you didn't have a rag on your back. Chick {turns aivay). Oh 1 Larry, I am ashamed — of you. Larry. Here, I want no airs from you. I wish you were Irish. Chick. Why ? Larry. So I could fall in love, and ask you to marry me. {Puts arms around her) Chick. Here, keep your hands off. Oh, gee ! I wish I had my old clothes on, these feel awful funny. Say, Larry, you aught to have seen us when we got home. We were wet through. Larry. Us — who do you mean ? Chick. Why — Mr. O'Grady and myself. Larry. O'Grady I Did you say O'Grady ? Is he here — is he alive ? Chick. You bet he is 1 Larry. Good — good for you. {Wipes eyes with hafidkerchief, sits at table, R.) Now, tell me how you saved O'Grady ? 5G MYRTLE FERNS. Chick. Well, you see, I jumped on Gray Eagle, and kept the road till I came to the Bay. I was just turn- ing the bend when I heard splashing in the water. I stopped to listen, it was so dark 1 couldn't see. I was about to go on when I heard a groan. I knew some one was suffering, I couldn't swim, but knew the horse could, so I turned his head toward the water, but he wouldn't budge an inch. Larry. Oh ! If I had been on his back! Chick. I had no whip. Larry. Well ? Chick. But a great big shawl pin. I stuck it in his side, way to the head. Larry. Hurroo! Chick. With a bound he plunged into the water. A flash of lightning revealed Mr. O'Grady struggling in the sea, half dead. Well, I managed to get him across the saddle — held him till I rode into the barn — dropped on a pile of hay — dressed up his arm — got him a warm breakfast, and now he is doing nicely. Larry {rise to c). Come here tome. {QniQv^ backs up to him, he kisses her.) You're an angel. {Enter Oak, remains c. d. l. Chick /// c.) Chick. That's the result of having on good clothes. {Blimps Oak. Exit d. l. Larry does safnc business, start L.) Oak. Too late, sir. You need not turn away. I saw the tears. {Sit R.) Larry (c). I am not ashamed of them. They are honest ones and will do me good. Oak. You, had a risky time of it last night, my lad ? Larry. Yes, sir, we did. Oak. I am sorry I did not accompany you. Larry. And so am L Oak. Indeed — and why ? Larry. So I could have pitched you into the Bay ! Oak. That would have been murder ! Larry {back of Oak). No — it would have been justice ! MYRTLE FERNS. 57 Oak i^iumps tip). What do 3'Ou mean ? I>ARRY. If there is no crime on your soul — why do you start at the word justice ? {Enter Chick c. d. l. with letter.) Mr. Oak, the net is woven, soon it will be cast, and the guilty one that has caused this good family so much suffering, will be held responsible. ( Cross to L. c.) Chick. Oh, Larry, here is a letter for Mr. O'Grady. (d. c. Larry up c. turns.) Oak [aside). O'Grady ! it must never fall into his hands. Hand me the letter and I will deliver it to him. {Reaches for it — Larry takes it.) Larry. I am not so sure of that 1 I've been re- engaged and it's part of my duty to deliver all mail in person. {Up c.) Oak {cross to r.) I have no desire to interfere with your duties. Who is this.? another Miss Summers? Chick. No, sir, this is the lady you stole the hand- kerchief from. But I've got it back, and I am going to keep it until the proper time comes to deliver it up. (Larry andilHiCK. pantomime as if drawing in net.) The net is being drawn in, and soon we will land our fish safe ashore. \^Exit with Larry d. l. Oak. O'Grady has returned and must stand by me. She don't respect me. Eh ? {Ritig bell.) We shall see. {Enter Larry d. l. cross to c.) Inform Miss Myrtle I desire to see her. Larry. I don't think she wants to see you. Oak. My object is to prevent more trouble. Larry. I'll go at once. \_Exit c. d. l. Oak. Confound that Irishman, I wish he were at the bottom of the Bay. {Enter Emma c. d. l., doton R. c. Oak up c.) Will you sit down ? Emma. No. Oak. As you please. I presume you are anxious to know why I sent for you. It was to give you an opportunity to retract your last words. You were angry then. Emma. You insult me, sir 1 58 MYRTLE FERNS. Oak. No! It is I who have been insulted. I spoke the truth. Your father did promise you to me. Emma. Is it for this you sent for me ? Oak. No, for you to recall your words. Emma. You wish me to apologize to you ? Oak. Only to admit, you have wronged me. . Emma. If I refuse ? Oak. I shall force you. (YjUUK starts up CyOxv. pre- vents her.) Stop 1 Emma. Let me pass ! Oak. Not till you hear me through. You shall re- spect me — you will obey your father's wish and become my wife. Or your brother meets the death he deserves. Emma. He deserves ? Oak. Yes, for I saw him kill Mr. Worth, and can produce a witness w-ho was with me at the time. It remains with you {Cross to L. c. Emma /// c.) whether he lives or dies. Do you consent ? Emma. No. Oak. But your brother .'' Emma. If guilty deserves the punishment. {Cross to table R., ring. Enter Larry c. d. i..) Larry, see that Mr. Oak's trunks are set outside the fence. He is about to leave. Larry {to Oak). Say — I discharge you. Oak. You resort to very elegant methods to turn me from the house. {Up d. l.,) I will give you one hour to recall your words. \^Exit D. L. Larry. Let me hit him just once. Emma. He is not worth it. (Cross to L. f.) Did you deliver my message ? Larry. He's waiting outside. Shall I call him ? Emma. Yes. Larry {up c. looks r.). O'Grady ! Oh, Mr. O'Grady, this way if you please. \^Exit c. D. L. (Enter 0'GkxT)\, c. t>. r., hand tied up with handkerchief.) O'Grady {up to Emma). I know all — I — I can't thank you MYRTLE FERNS, 59 Oak {outside). Let the trunks remain where they are I O Grady {starts). The cloud is still hanging over my head. Emma. For my sake. O 'Grady. Go quick {Takes her up c). I will be only too happy too join you. {Exit Emma c. d. l.,) What happiness — what joy. {Enter Oak d. l.) Oak. One moment. I want to see you for the last time. O'Grady. Well ? Oak. You and I part forever that is, if you wish. O'Grady. And the document ? Oak. Shall be yours five minutes after you do as I say. To-night he will be taken back to jail, no doubt will declare his innocence. Consider well before you answer. You will be a free man and I will never mo- lest you again, if you swear you saw the blow struck that killed old man Worth 1 O'Grady (looks at him fiercely). You want me to swear — I saw the blow struck that killed that old man ? Oak. How strange you look, do you refuse ? O'Grady. No I Oak. You accept ? O'Grady. Yes ! Oak. Swear it 1 O'Grady. I swear it 1 Oak. Good, give me your hand. O'Grady. That is not necessary, I have given you my word. {Up c.) Oak. As you please, we had better remain friends. O'Grady. We — never were friends. Oak. You have sworn — you will keep your oath ? O'Grady. I have given you my word — and that I never break. \^Exit c. D. L. Oak {cross to r.). And my word shall be kept with her, though my last scheme failed. I'll take care this time he never leaves that jail. \_Exit d. r. 00* MYRTLE FERNS. {E/iter c. D. L. Larry — Mr Myrtle wifh Edith and Bob on arm — Emma and Chick. Mr Myrtle l. c. Bob down l. corner — Edith next to Bob — Emma r. also Chick. I^arry c. — Larry speaks as he enters.') Larry. Oh, did you hear the news? that letter for O'Grady was from some plantation South, that he de- serted years ago. He left it in the care of an old Yankee who improved, and now it's worth ^200,000, and he wants Mr. O'Grady to sell for the same. Hurroo, Mr O'Grad}' is a real Irish gentleman ! Chick. Hurroo ! Let us hang him. {Rmis up c. Larry after her.) Larry. You're too little to have so much to say. Emma. Larry. ( Cross to R. c, Chick looks of^ r. c. d.) Chick. Here comes Mr. Oak and Mr. O'Grady. Oh, gee 1 don't he look nice ? RoBT. {in anger). That man Oak Mr Myrtle. Remember your promise. RoBT. But, Dad Edith. You will do just as your father says. Not another word 1 Chick. Oh, mister, I pity you. {Cross to Emma r.) {E?Uer Oak afid O'Grady c. d. r.) Oak. Quite a family gathering. {C?'oss to r.) I trust my presence is no intrusion. Mr Myrtle. Before we answer, you must exoner- ate yourself. If I am rightly informed, you are the instigator of all this trouble. I am surprised, sir ! I thought you a different person. Oak. If a man commits a crime, let him paj'- the penalty. O'Grady. Remember he is an old man. {Enter Sheriff c. d. l,) Oak. Remain outside until I call. [Exit c. d. r. Sheriff {holds np luindaiffs). Will you allow me, sir. RoBT. Heaven help me, if I go back to that jail, I will never leave it alive. MYRTLE FERNS. 61 Mr Myrtle {fo sheriff). Kis trial takes place to- morrow. Remain here to-night, I will pay you any sum. Oak. He dare not! It is his duty to take the es- caped prisoner back to jail. Sheriff, do your duty. RoBT. How dare you command ! {Oavl iufns away R.) Look me in the face. You cannot, for guilt is stamped on yours ! Friends, there stands the man that killed Mr. Worth ! {Enter O "Grady c. d. r. down c.) Oak {loud). He lies ! Tis false ! O'Grady. No ! He speaks the truth, I swear it! I saw you strike the blow ! I have kept my word with you — keep yours and give me that document. Oak. No — we swing together ! (O'Grady cross to L. C.) Chick. Not much. Oak. What do you mean ? Chick. That I stole the paper out of your pocket and gave it to Larry. Larry. And I burned it a week ago. RoBT. Mr. Sheriff — your duty. {Points to Oak.) O'Grady, you are a man of honor. Twice you have saved my life, let m.e repay the debt, by giving you my sister. (Emma crosses to O'Grady l. c. Chick and Larry in ptDitomitne as if draivingin nets — at third ti}ne.) Oak. What the devil are you doing? Chick. Pulling in the net. (Chick up l. c.) Larry. And we have landed our fish at last. (Oak crosses to c, Larry reinains ou l. o/Oaml, as Oak goes up c. — O'Grady and Emma cross to R. c. in front.) Oak. O'Grady, I wish you much joy. {To Robert.) You, sir, had a close call. Miss Myrtle, your obedient. Miss Summers, {laughs) Miss Summers ! I regret I cannot remain for the \vedding. (Bows to Edith) Larry {slaps him on back). Well, we're not. (Chick slaps hifH on back — as he turns the Sheriff taps hijn and points c. D. R. Oak bows and Exit with Sheriff c. D. R. Oak leads Emma c.) 62 MYRTLE FERNS. Mr. Myrtle. Mr. O'Grady, we owe much to you. O 'Grady {takes Emma iti his arms). I have been well repaid, and will endeavor to guard well my trust. CURTAIN. O'Grady and Emma. Robert and Edith. Larry and Chick, Mr Myrtle. JtJST PUBLISHED AT YALE A Comedy Drama of College Life in Three Acta By OWEN DAVIS CAST OF CHARACTERS Dick Sheelet Yale '05. Mr. Clayton Randal Of New York. Jack Randal His son, Yale '05. Dave Burly Substitute on Yale Crew. Jim Tucker Captain of Yale Crew. JiMSEY A Telegraph Messenger Boy. Clancy A Prize-fighter. John Kennedy Coach Yale Crew. Frank Young Member of Yale Crew. Ed. Scott Friend of Dick and Member of Yala Crew. Tom Haynes Member of Yale Crew. Robert Crosby Member of Yale Crew. Jepson Boatman. Pol Harry Wilson Will Taylor Mrs. Randal Jack's Mother. Dorothy Randal Her daughter. Polly Burk A friend of Dorothy. Mame Brady A poor girl. SYNOPSIS OF SCENES ACT I.— Vanderbilt Hall, New Haven. ACT II. — Scene 1. — A Boat House, Gales Ferry. Scene 2. — The Start. Gales Ferry Quarters. Scene 3. — The Race. Thames River. ACT III. — Exterior of Griswold Hotel, Eastern Point. New Lon* don. The night of the race. A Comedy Drama of American College Life In Three Acts, by Owen Davis. This piece was played with tremendous success all over the United States by Paul GUmore. Sixteen males, four females, four of the men being' unimportant. This Is a play with a distinct college setting, in which athletics are prominent: Just the Islnd of play that is wanted by nearly every high school and college con- templating putting on a play as part of their commencement exercises. There are pretty college girls, freshmen, a telegraph messenger boy. coaches, typical college boys, members of the crew, substitutes, etc. Any number of males and females can be used In the ensembles. Plays a fuU evening. PRICE. 25 CENTS 5l'l JnST PUBLISHED What Happened to Jones An Original Farce in Three Acts By GEORGE H. BROADHURST CAST OF CHARACTERS JONES, wlio travels for a Jiymn-hook house EBENEZER GOODLY, aprofessor of anatomy ANTONY GOODLY, D.D., Bishop of Ballarat RICHARD HEATHERLY, engaged to Marjmie THOMAS HOLDER, a policeman WILLIAM BIGBEE, an inmate of the Sanitarium HENRY FULLER, superintendent of the Sanitarium, MRS. GOODLY, Ebenezer's wife CISSY, Ebenezefs ward MARJORIE, ) MINERVA ) -^^^^^^'* daughters ALVINA STARLIGHT, Mr. Qoodly's sister HELMA, a servant SYNOPSIS OF SCENES ACT 1. — Handsomely furnished room in home of Ebenezer Goodly. ACT 2.— The same. ACT 3.— The same. This is the jolliest sort of a farce, clean and sparkling all the way through. A professor of anatomy is lured to a prize fight and the police make a raid on the "mill." The professor escapes to his home, followed by Jones, a traveling salesman, who sells hymn hooks when he can and playing cards when he cannot. The police are on the trail, so Jones disguises himself by putting on a Bishop's garb, and a lot of funny complications ensue. The other funmakers are aided not a little by an escaped lunatic. This celebrated farce has been a tremendous success for years on the professional stage and is now published for the first time. PRICE, 50 CENTS SAMUEL FRENCH, 24 West 22d Street, NEW YORK SEND FOR A NEW DESCRIPTIVE CATALOQUC. VOL. XLI, 8JI Th» Plr«te'i Legacy 822 'I bo Ch«r.o«l Burner in AJelgitha 324 bejior ValitnU fJi Foreit Rom S2« Duke't DtafhUr in Caaiilla'i Hutbanil lit Pure Hold VOL. XLU. 3}) Ticket of Leave Man ISO Fool'i Revenge tai O'.Neil tbe Ureal 382 flandy Andy 883 Pirate of the Itlee 834 I'anotaou 386 Little Barefoot 88« Wild IriihGlrl VOL. XLIIU 837 Pearl of Saroy 888 Dead (leart 389 Tan Mrbti Id a Bar-room 340 Dujiib Uoyof Manchester 341 BolpheKoftbeMounteb'k 341 Cricket on the Hearth 343 Printer's Devil tit Meg'i Diveriion (Frentb's Standard Drama Continutd from ad pegt cfCovir.) VOL. XLIV. 348 Drunkard's Docai 346 Cbiuiney Corner m Fifteen Veartof a Drunk 848 No Tborougbfare ( ard'j 349 Peep O' Day L^ife 350 Everybody's Friend 361 Uen. Grant 'ib'i Kathleen Maroumeea VOL. XLV. 3S3 Nick Whiflfles 364 Fruits of the Wine Cup 3&& Drunkard's Warning 856 Teuiperanc* Doctor 357 Aunt Dinah 358 Widow Freeheart 369 Frou Frou 36U Lonr Strike VOL. XLVI. 381 Larceri 362 Lu' Ule 363 Raadall's Thumb 364 Wicked World 365 Two Orphans 366 Colleen Bawn t Axe and Crown 368 Lady Claiicarthy VOL. XLVU. 369 Saratoga 370 Never Too Late to Mend 371 Lily of Franca ;i72 Led Astray 373 Henry V 374 Unequal Match 75 .Mny or Dolly'e Delusion ^{76 Allatooua VOL. XLVIII. 377 Knoch Arden 378 Under the G.i« Light 379 Daniel Rochat 380 Caste .■?»1 Schuol 382 Home S»3 David Garrlck 884 Ours VOL. XLIX. 385 Social Glass 3S6 Daniel Druc« 387 Two Roses 38* Adrienne 889 The Bells 90 Uncle 391 Courtship 393 Not Such a Fool TOL. t. 398 Fine Feathers 394 Prompter's Box 395 Iron Master 396 Engaged »97 Fyguialion & Galatea 398 Uah 99 Scrap of P.tper 400 Lost in London VOL. LI. 401 Octoroon 402 Confederate Spy 403 Mariner's Return VA Ruined by Drink 405 Dreamt 406 M. P. 407 War 40« Birth VOL. LIL 40t Nightingale 410 Progress 411 Play 412 Midnight Charge *\i Conlldential Clerk 414 Snowball 415 Our Reglmeuv 416 Married for Money in Three AcU Guttle A GulpU FRENCH'S INTERNATIONAL COPYRIGHTED EDITION OF THE WORKS OF THE BEST AUTHORS. The following very tucceitful plays have just been issued at 25 cents per copy. A PAIR OF BPECTACLB^. Comedy In 8 Acts by Svp.vtv Gruudy, author of " Sowing the Wind," Ac. 8 male, 3 female characters. A FOOL'8 FARADI8B. An orlelnal play In 8 Ads bv Sydn«v GKi>rY, author of "Sowing the Wind,'' Ac. 5 male, 4 female characters. THE SILVER SHIBLD. An orieinal comedy In 3 .^ct> by Svr>MEV Gri'sdv, author 'if "Sowingthe W'ind," AC. 6 male, 3 female characters. THE GLASS OP FASHIOH. An original com- edy in 4 Acts by Syi'Mev Grundy, author of "Sowing the Wind," Acl 6 male, 6 female characters^ THE BALLOON. Farcical comedy In t Acts by J. H. Darki.iy and Ms>villi Finn. ( male, 4 female characters. MISS CLEOPATRA. Shirley. 7 male, 3 fenia SIX FXBSON8. Comedy Act by I. ZaHOWUL. 1 male, 1 fe: ale ch< FASHIONABLE INTBLLIOBNOB. Comedi- etta in 1 Act by PkKcv Fknoall. 1 male, 1 female character. Hia-HLAND LEOACT. Comedy In 1 Act by Bbasdov Thom»s, nuihor of "Charley's Aunt." ft male, 2 female characters. Contents of Catalogue which is sent Free. Amateur Drama Amateur Operas Articles Needed bv Amatean Art of Si-ene Painting Baker's Reading Club Beards, Whiskers, Mustaches, etc. Bound Sets of I'lavs Bulwer Lytton's flayi Burlesque Dramas Burnt Cork Cabman's Story Carnival of Authors Charade Plavs Children's Plays Comic Dramas for Male Characters onlv Costume Books Crape Hair Cumberland Kdltlon Darkey Dramas Dramas for Bovs Drawing-room 'MonoTopies Elocution, Reciters and Speakers Ethiopian Dramas Evenlnir's Euterlainment Fairy and Home yiays French's Costumes French's Editions French's Italian Operas French's Parlor Comedies French's Standard and Minor Drama French's Standard and Minor Draum, bound French's Scenes for Amateurs Frobishir's J onuhir Recitals Grand Army Dramas Guide Booi<£ for Amntenra Guide to Selecting Plays Hints on Costmncs Home Phivs for Ladies Irish PlayJ Irvine's Plays ,Tuvenile PlnVs Make-Up Hook M»ke-Up Box Mock Trial Mrs. .larley's Wax Works New Pl*y» New Recitation Books Nipaer Jokes and Stump Speeches Parlor Magic Parlor Pantomimes Pieces of Pleasantry Poems for Recitations Plays for Mi, Characters only Riuind Games Scenery Scriptural and Historical Dramas .Seusatiiiu Dramas Serio-Comic Dramas Shadow Pantomimes Shakespeare's Plays for Amateurs Shakespeare's Plays Stanley's Dwarfs Spin, bum Tahieatix Vivanti Talma Actor's Art Temperance Plays Vncai Music of Shakespeare's Plays Webster's .\cting Edition Wigb, etc. VOL. XLI. {ventures of t Child Cards 1 Box (French's Minor Drama Coniinueii from 4th page of Cover.) VOL. XLTI. 39» As Like as Two Peas 330 Presumptive Evidence 381 Happv Band ,^32 Pinafore s Love [LetUr 333 Mock Trial 334 My Uncle's Will 335 Happy ^a^r 33i> My 'TiirB Next VOL. XLIIL 337 Sunset S.'JS For Half a Million 339 C hie Car 340 Earlv Bird 341 Aluinnil'lav .'i4-.> Show of Hands :<43 Barhnr". 344 Who's Who VOL. XLIV. 346 Who's To Win Him 346 Which is Which 347 Cup of Tea 3H Sarah's Young Man 349 Hearts 350 lu Honor Bound [Law 3.il Freeting a Mother-in- 352 My Lord In Livery 5AMUEL FRENCH, 26 West 22d St., New York City. J ■View and Explicit Descriptive Cataioeue Mailed f^ree on Request. FRENCH'S MIP Price 10 Cents each.— Bo. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 016 102 694 3 ^ VOL. I. I Tkt Irlth Attornty 1 BooU «t tli« Srrun X How to Paj tht Rtnt 4 Tb« Lomi uf > I/orn i Tb« D«d Shot ( His Laat <.•» 7 Th« InrU.bU Prino* t Tba OoMtn Fumtr VOL. II. « rrtdt of lh> Markat 10 UMd Up 11 Th»Irlih Tutor It Th« Barrack Room II Lukt tht La'iorar U Btauty aud tht Bcasi U St. Pitrlck'i Ev« 1( Captain of tb» Watch VOL. la. IT Tht Sturtt fp-- II WhIU Horit of tht Pep- IITht Jacobitt to Tht BottIt ]| Box and Coz tl Bambooilinf II Widow'! Victla M Robtrt Macair* VOL. ir. » Stcrtt 9trTlo« it Omnibus 97 Irttb Lion 11 Maidof CroluT « The Old (Juard 10 Raisiuic the Wln4 11 SU'btr :tnd Cr.uhtr 39 Naval Eiirwonenta VOL. V. II Cocknitt In Calllorula 14 Who iipeakt KIrst ill Bombaittt Furioso It Macbtth Travtatit 17 Irish Ambaasiidur .11 Delicatt Ground 31 The Wtathorcock [Gold 40 All that Olitttrs U Not VOL. VI 41 Oriuishaw, Bagibaw and Brartihaw 41 Rough Diamond 41 Biooinar Oostum* U Two Bounycastlts 41 Born to 'jood Luck U Kiss In tht Dark [Jurtr 47 'Twould Puwlt • Con- 18 Kill or Curt VOL. VII. 41 Box and Cox Married and 10 St. Cujtid [Settled 11 ao-to-bed Tom tl The Lawyers 15 Jack Sheppard J4 The Toodles !tl The Mobcap 61 Ladies Beware VOL. VIII. 47 Mornlnf Call it Poputns the Questloi. 59 Deaf »> a Post 60 N» 1 Footman «l Pleasant Neighbor IJ Paddy the Piper «3 Brian O'Lliin 14 Irish Assuranot VOL. IX. IK Ttmptatlon •I Paddv CartT 41 Two Qregorlet 41 K1d( CharuiluK il P.i-ca-bon-Us 70 ClMkmaker's Hat 71 Married Rake 71 Lore and Murder VOL. X. 71 Ireland and Amtrlta 74 PnMjr Pitet of Bualnttt 79 Irinh Rreora-maker 7« Te Paris and Baek for Fire Paundt 77 Tkat BIttswi Babjr Tl Our 6al 71 SwiM Oottftfft I* Taaag Wldtir VOL. XI. 11 O'Flannigan and the Fal i'l Irish Post [riM 13 My Neighbor'! Wife 14 Irish Tiger 15 P. P., or Man and Tiger l« To Oblige Benton IT State Secrets tl Irish Vanket VOL. XII. 8* A Good Fellow 10 Cherry and Fair Star 11 Clale greeiely 99 Our Jemiuiy 13 Miller's Maid 94 Awkward Arrival 95 Crossing the Line 91 Coniugai Lesson VOL. XIII. 9T My Wife's .Mirror 98 Lile in .\ew York 99 Middy Ashore 100 Crown Priuot 101 Two Queens 102 Thumping Legacy 103 Unfinished <)>atltman 104 House Dog VOL. XIV. 105 The Demon Lorir 106 Matrimony 107 In and Out of Place 108 i Dine with My .Mother 109 Hi-a-wa-tha 110 Andv Blake 111 Lots in '76 [tie, US Romance under Difflcul VOL. XV. 113 One Coat for i Suitt 114 A Decided Case 115 Daughter [norltv 116 No; or, the Glorious Ml- 117 Coroner's Inquisition 118 Love in Humble Life 19 Family Jars 1'20 I'trsouatlon VOL. XVt. 191 Children in the Wood 199 Winning a Husband 158 Day After tht Fair 124 Maks Your Wills I'i5 Rtndeirous 19< My Wife's Husband 1 27 Monsieur Tonson '28 lllustrioot Stranger VOL. XVtI. I9» Mischief-Making [Ml nes ISO A Live Woman Id the 131 The Corsair 135 Shylock 133 Spoiled Child 134 EViI Eye Nothing to Nurse 1»« Wanted* Tvidow l VOL. XVIII. 1.17 Lottery Ticket :i8 Fortune's Frolle 139 Is he Jealous! 140 Married Bachelor 141 Husband at Sight * ishman In London nina! M.i;»netlsm ■ 144 Hlghw.iys aud By-W ays VOL. XIX. 46 Columbus 146 Harlequin Bluebeard 147 Ladla< nt Home 148 Phenomenon in a Smoct{ Frock 149 Comedy and Tragedy 150 Opposite "^'eighbors 191 Dutohinan's Ghost 15tt Persecuted Outchman VOL. XX. IS Mlieard Ball 931 Unprotected Female iH Great Tragic RerWal 984 Pet of the Peltlc US High Low Jack k Game -235 Forty aqrt Fifty [book 154 A Gentleman from Ire- 934 Who Stole the Pocket- 1 J7 Tom aud Jerry [land 187 My Son Diana [sion IM Vlllsge Lawyer 2.-i8 Unwarrantable I n t IB! Captain's not A-mist 931 Mr. and Mm. White lln Amateurs an4 Actors 1S40 A Quiet Family VOL. XXXt. 941 Cool as Cucumber 349 Sudden ThuugkU 943 Juuiho Jum '244 A Blighted BeinK 945 Little Toddltkint 246 A Lovt-r by Proxy [Pall 347 Maid with the Milking 248 Perplexing Predicament VOL. XXXU. '249 Dr. D;1 worth 260 Out to Nurse 251 A Lucky Hit 252 The Dowager 953 .Metaniora (Bnrltbdue) 264 Dreams of Delusion 265 The Shaker Lovera 266 Ticklish Times VOL. XXXIIL /6T 20 Minutes with a Tiger 958 Aliralda; or, tba Justice of Tacon 969 A Soldier's Courtship 260 Servants by Legacy 261 Dying lor Love 262 Alaruiing Sacrifice 263 Valet de Sham 964 Nicholas ^ Ickleby VOL. XXXlV. 966 The Last of the Pigtails 266 King Rene's Daughter 267 The Grotto Nymph 208 A Devilish Good Joke 2t.9 A Twice Told Tale 270 Pas de Faici nation ■71 Revolutionary Soldier 272 A Man Without a Head VOL. XXXV. 973 The Olio, Part 1 974 Tne Olio, Part » 276 The Olio, Part 3 [ter 276 The Trumpeter's DkUfrhi* 277 Seeing Warren 278 Green Mountain Boy 27S That Nose 280 Tom Noddy's Store! VOL. XXXVI. 981 Shocking Events 212 A Regular Fix 283 Dick Turpln 284 Yourjg .Scimp 985 Y'oung Actress 286 Call at No. 1—7 287 One Touch of Matnn 288 Two B'hoys VOL. XXXVII. 289 All the World's a Sl«(e •290 Quash, or Nigger Prae- 291 Turn Him Out [tiee 292 Prttty Girls of Stnibtig 293 Angel of the Attic 294 r'rumstancesalttrCatee 296 Katy O'Shtal 296 A Supper In Dixie VOL. XXXVIIL 297 Id on Parle Francalt 2(»8 Who Killed Cocii Robin 299 Declaration of ludeptnd- 300 Heads or Tails [enoe 801 Obstinate Family 3U« My Aunt 303 That Rascal Pat 304 Don Paddy de Baian VOL. XXXIX. [ture 305 Too Much for Good Na- 306 Cure for the Fidgets .307 Jack's the Ud 308 MnchAdoAhoutNothing 309 Artful Dodeer 310 Winnlnj; Hatard 311 Day's rishing [*c. 812 Did you svr stnd yoar, VOL. XL. 318 An Irishman's Mantayer 314 Cousin Fannie 31 5 'Ti« the Darkest Hoar be- 934 Who Stole the Pocket- 316 Masquerade (fore Dawn VOL. XXI. 161 Promotion [ual 162 A Fascinating Individ- 163 Mrs. Caudle li>4 Shakespeare's Dreaiq I6t Neptuue s Defeat 166 Lady of Bedchamber 167 Take Care of Little i68 Irish Widow [Charley VOL. XXII. 1<9 Yankee Peddler 170 Hiram Hireout 171 Double-Bedded Room 172 The Drama Deiendsd 173 Vermont Wool Dealer 174 Ebenettr Venture [ter 175 Principles from Cbarac- 176 Lady of the Lake (Tray) VOL. XXIII. 177 Mad Dogs 178 Barney the Baron 179 Swiss Swains 180 Bachelor's Bedroum 181 A Roland for an Ollyer 182 More Blunders than One 183 Dumb Belle l^4 Limerick boy VOL. XXIV. 186 Nature and Philosophy 186 Teddy the Tiler 187 Sptctrt Bridegroom 188 Matico Falcone 189 Jenny LInd 190 Two Buszardi 191 Happy .M:»Q las Betsy" Baker VOL. XXV. 193 No. 1 Round the Comer 194 Teddy Roe 196 Object of Interest IM Mv Fellow Clerk 1»7 Bengal Tiger 1f Acting 221 The Lady of the Lions 229 The Rights ..f Man 230 My Hnsoand's Ghost 231 Two Can Play at that Game 232 Fighting by Proxy VOL. XXX. (Frenches Miner DrMinti Centinued on -jd page ofCuvtr.) 317 Crowding the Season 318 Good Night's Rest 119 Man with the Carpet Bs^J 190 Terrible Tinker >^ SAMUEL FRENCH, 28-30 West 38th Street. New York City. New and Explicit Descriptive Catalogue Mailed Free on Request.