Class _^_5.M2^ Book •jSZIJ^ CopyiightN". ./f^f- COPYFSIGHT DEPOSrn PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE prince ^nh profligate a ©rama 3n four actjs IS? if mnfe Sl^ilton f ranUUn New York SAMUEL FRENCH P IT B L I S H E U 24 WEST 2-2r, STREET London SAMUEL FRENCH, Ltd. 26 South A.^iPTov Street STEAND j LIBRARY of CONGiBESS Tyvo Copies Heceivea JAN 7 1908 viot/yrieiii tnim July 7 I^Ot-f 0USS;D XXc. No, COPY B. Copyright, 1904, by FEANK MILTON FRANKLIN Caution: — Professionals and Amateurs are hereby notified tliat tliis play is fully copyrighted under the existing: laws of the United States Government, and nobody is allowed to do this play without first havinjj obtained permission of Frank M. Franklin, Counsellor-at-Law, New York City. PREFACE This play was written for the stage and was submitted for production to a few managers, who, after keeping it for a year or so, gave me to understand that, while it is a very good drama, they did not care to put their money on the work of a mere novice, when they could obtain plays from accredited dramatists, losing sight of the fact that the play itself " is the real thing " and must stand or fall upon its own merits. If we take into consideration the different kinds of plays which the ordinary public patronize, it is certain that no rule can be laid down as to what the average theater goer actually wants, nor can anyone say with any degree of certainty that any worthy dramatic effort would not prove both an artistic and financial success, if properly put on the stage, and unless the promising beginner is given a chance to begin, there will be no one to replace the established authors, who have come for- ward under more favorable conditions. It is partly with the idea of saving this play from utter oblivion to which the untried play- wright's work is generally confined, and partly in the hope of changing in some slight degree the attitude of some of our managers toward the un- known playwright, that this drama is published. PERIOD OF THE PLAY Acts I and II Take Place in the Year 1398. Acts III and IV Occur in the Year 1401. SCENES Act I A chamber in the Royal Apartment.i at the Ahhey of the Holy Cross. Act II The Garden in tJic Ahhey. Act III Courtyard of the Thistle Tavern. Act IV A dungeon in Faulldand Castle. Place Edinburgh and vicinity, Scotland. PERSONS REPRESENTED Robert III, King of Scotland. David, Duke of Rothsay, his so7i, the Prince of Scotland. Robin, Duke of Albany, the King\'i brother. Archibald, Earl of Douglas. George Dunbar, Earl of March. Sir John Ramorny, Master of Horse, to the Duke of Rothsay. The Laird of Glencove, a friend of the Prince. McLewis, Captain of Brandane Guard. The Lady Douglas, wife of Archibahl Douglas. ]VL\RJORY, her daughter. Elizabeth, daughter of the Earl of March. Bonthune Peter Errol Ritchie Oliphant A Page. The Host of the Thistle Tavern. A Soldier of the Brandane Guard. Pages, Brandane Guards, Retainers of the House of Douglas, Followers of Prince Rothsay, Glee Women, Minstrels, etc. Followers of Sir John Ramorny. PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ACT I Scene. — A chamber of the Royal Apartments in the Abbey of the Holy Cross. Arched Gothic entrance C. D. F. Door R. 2. E. Large stained-glass windozcs L. 2. E. and L. 3. E. On R. a state chair on pedestal slightly ele- vated, surmounted by a canopy, emblazoned •with the royal escutcheon. Massive table L. C., xcith high-backed chairs near by. A crutch-headed ebony staff near chair of state. Other chairs arranged about the room. Tapestries and Scotch standards on walls and near tvindows and doors; armor, spears, shields, and trophies of the chase also hung abotit the walls. Foot cloth or carpet, etc. Time. — Forenoon. Sunshine effects through ivin- doxcs. Discovered. — King Robert, a gentle, lame old man of about sixty, sitting on chair of state. The Duke of Albany stands near by. (Al- bany is a crafty, round-shouldered, smooth- speaking and hypocritical man of about fifty- five.) 1 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King Pray, speak forth, brother, speak forth ! What is thy new complaint 'gainst the Prince? Albany Sire, I would fain forego the very painful task of bringing our Rothsay's new offense to Your Majesty's notice. — Yet his victims cry out for redress to me, wliile Scotland's King alone hath power to curb the Prince of Scotland. King We must learn the nature of his misdeeds, ere we can provide a remedy 'gainst them. Albany An' you'll have me speak? — Then must I in- form Your Majesty that on Monday last, while the McPherson was sitting justice on a case of treason 'gainst the state, His Royal Highness broke in upon the solemn proceeding and with drawn sword, violently set free the culprit, who, it sorrows me to say, is one of the Prince's own comrades in brawling, drinking, and much worse. — Such acts needs must work direst injury to our royal house. PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King Alas, you say but too true. — I fear we have been o'er-lenlent with the willful lad. — Yea, we must seek means to curb his folly. Albany Sire, most sorely was I grieved when I learned of this latest transgression. — Our dear Rothsay still hath many princely qualities, and I have, of late, reflected with much concern for his future. King Thy solicitude for our son is well known to us, dear brother. Pray acquaint us with the con- clusion of thy deliberation in his behalf. Albany My gracious sovereign, the decision hath forced itself upon me, that the most effective means to check his wild spirits would be to remove the Prince from the turbulent influences that are near the Court. King How now, Albany? Wouldst thou counsel me to banish my own son? S PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany Heaven forefend, sire ! I do but advise that Your Majesty place him under such restraint for a time, that he be parted from his disorderly com- panions. King Methinks 'twere easier to part these disorderly companions from the Prince. I have no scruples about sending away his master of the horse, Sir John Ramorny, who, I verily believe, is at the root of all his follies. Albany Good my liege. Sir John is but a tool in the hands of Rothsay. It were unjust to punish the man for the fault of the master, withal there are scores of other wild blades about the Court, who minister to the follies of the Prince. King But part from my Davy I cannot. The lad hath ever been the chief consolation of my sor- rowful life, and though his youthful spirits o'er- flow at times, still he hath in him the mettle of the Royal Bruce. 4 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany [^WitJi forced sigh.'\ Ah, that his youthful spirits should so com- pletely dominate him of late. King Then the task of leading the hapless youth back in the right path devolves on us. Neither sense nor discretion doth our son lack — [^Clattering' of horses, clashing of arms, murmurs, shouts, etc., heard gradually approaching from without. The King is startled. Albany crosses inquiringly toward the tcindo'ws L. 2. E.'\ What means this unseemly tumult so near our person ? Albany [At window L. 2. £.] Alas, 'tis even that same discreet and sensible youth at the head of his indiscreet followers. King How? My son David, leader of that noisy riot ? PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany \_With deep regret.'] Yea, my Lord King, even the Lieutenant of Scotland, whose duty it is to preserve the King- dom's peace. King Has the boy lost all sense of decorum, to brawl thus at our very threshold? . . . Bid McLewis send him to us on the instant. [Albany bows and exits C. D. F. The noise from without gradually subsides.] King [With deep sigh.] Oh, that my burdens should increase as my strength of endurance declines. Ah, that my son, on whom my failing strength would fain repose, should only add to the weary load that is grad- ually crushing out my life. '[A horn is heard from without. The King raises his head and listens.] [Albany re-enters C. D. E.] Albany [Speaking as he enters.] I have dispatched a messenger for the Prince. 6 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King 'Tis well. Was that the horn of the Earl of March ? Albany Even so, my Hege, George of Dunbar and his daughter have this moment arrived. King The Earl's presence with his daughter is most opportune. Albany Nay, pardon, my royal brother. To me it seems most inopportune that one of Your Maj- esty's greatest liegemen should witness the indec- orous conduct of the heir of Scotland. Oh, that we should never hear of scandal or brawling in the Kingdom without finding our princely nephew privy to it. King Would I could gainsay you. — But instead of dwelling upon Rothsay's faults, methinks we are rather called upon to find means for abating them. — Now were it not good policy to test the re- straining influence of a wife's affection upon the Prince? 7 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany [Tr//o docs not like the idea.'\ Er — a wife can make, as well as unmake, a man. [Footsteps, etc., have been heard off C. D. F., and now the Earl of Maech is heard from without.'^ March Await me in the antechamber. [Page draws curtains aside and announces " Robert of Dunbar, Earl of March,^^ as that distinguished nobleman and Elizabeth of Dunbar (a modest young maiden) enter C. D. F. Page bows and exits as they advance into chamber.^ King Welcome, ever welcome to our Court, my noble lord. March \_Bowing with much deference as he ap- proaches the King.] And I am ever joyous to greet my gracious liege. [Taking Elizabeth by the hand.^ By Your Majesty's leave, I would fain present my daughter. PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King So, this is the fair Elizabeth of March. [Elizabeth courtesys to the King.] Approach, gentle maid; thou and I should be better acquainted. [Elizabeth approaches shyly and kisses the King's hand.l March [To Albany.] And how is it with Your Grace to-day? Albany [Coolly.'] Well — I thank you, my lord. March [Presenting him to Elizabeth.] Here, child, is our noble Duke of Albany, of whom thou hast heard so much. [Elizabeth knits her brows as she cour- tesys slightly.] Albany I have much pleasure in saluting thee, pretty damsel. [Takes her hand and bends over as if about to kiss it. Elizabeth involuntarily shrinks back.] 9 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE March I beseech Your Grace's pardon — the maiden Is not practiced in gallantries of the Court. Albany I warrant the Court gallants will soon make her an adept in all these practices. King [To Elizabeth.] Thy face seems most familiar to us. Hast thou been at Court before.'' Elizabeth Nay, sire; but Your Majesty honored us with your gracious presence at Dunbar Castle, some five years since. King [SmiUng reminiscently .'\ I do remember me now. Our son David was with us at the time. Ah, the poor laddie wept lustily when the time for parting came. Elizabeth [Shyly.'] The little Prince and I had become fast friends. 10 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King Meantime the little Prince hath grown to stal- wart manhood ; I warrant thou wilt scarce recog- nize him when presently he enters. Elizabeth [l7i a flutter.l How? — Is Rothsay, — the Prince, coming hith- er? King Even so, my pretty lass. I have but now or- dered his attendance upon a matter that may con- cern a certain damsel. March [ir/io has noticed Elizabeth's nervous- ness, places his hand upon her reassur- ingly/, after which he addresses the King.] Then, may it please Your Majesty to grant leave for me to conduct the maiden through the gardens of the Abbey, until this matter is dis- patched? King Thou hast good leave, my noble lord. [To Elizabeth.] 11 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE I shall be most happy to acquaint Rothsay of thy presence here, — he will be overjoyed to meet his old young friend. [Elizabeth courtesys.'\ March We are much beholden to Your Majesty. [They how to the King and Albany, and exeunt C. D. G.] King \_Smiles as he looks after them, then to Albany.] Hast noted how the damsel spoke of our son? I opine 'twere no difficult task to gain her consent to a marriage with the Prince. Albany I fear not — that is, I fear she were no fit bride for the Prince. Your Majesty must have marked that she lacks the ease of gentle nurture. King Nay, 'twas but maidenly modesty ; to me she seems well worthy of our son's affections. — With- al, the Earl of March doth covet greatly an alli- ance with our Royal House. 12 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany And the still more powerful Earl of Douglas hath a like ambition. No sooner was it rumored that Dunbar would bring his daughter to Court, than a like report was issued from the House of Douglas concerning the Lady Marjory- Either of these chieftains would be wroth to hear of our forming an alliance with the other. King Perforce, — I can do no more than extend to Rothsay the choice between the maidens. Albany But what, sire, if the Prince will choose neither? He is ever loath to relinquish what he terms his precious liberty — the mere fact of be- ing commanded to a course hath oft spurred his disobedience. King How? Disobey our royal command? By my scepter, I would e'en follow thy counsel and ban- ish him from our Court, were he thus wantonly to disregard his duty to us. 13 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany A plan most wise, my royal brother. " He that loveth his son chastiseth him betimes." [McLewis heard off i?.] McLewis Room! Make room for the Prince! King [Brightening up.^ Ah, my son. — But no. — He shall not find me over-indulgent this day. [Assumes a frown as Roths ay enters briskly C. D. F. Page holds curtains and bows to him as he passes, then exits C. D. F. Rothsay is young, handsome, gay, dashing, clever and full of life.'\ Rothsay [Advancing toward Kikg, salutes.^ Happiness and peace, my royal father. King [With forced anger. '\ How may thy father enjoy happiness or peace when thou dost naught but bring sorrow and dis- grace upon his head? Oh, David, I am immeas- urably displeased with thee. 14> PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince And wherefore, father? l^Seeing Albany.'\ Ah, I need not seek far for the cause of thy displeasure 'gainst me, when our " loving " Uncle of Albany is so near Your INlajesty's person. Albany [After repressing his anger.'] Why dost thou blame me instead of thy own lewd spirits, fair nephew? Prince [^Somewhat mockingly.'] Because thou canst not throw dust into mine eyes, " most fair " uncle. Albany Have I not by word and deed endeavored to place thee on the road of honor? Prince Heaven forfend that thy road to honor should ever become mine ! Albany l^Sighs then "with piety.] Verily, 'tis well writ : " A scorner loveth not the one that doth reprove him." 15 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [^Sighing with mock piety. '\ Is it not also writ : " The counsels of the wicked are deceit"? Beshrew me, uncle, full cognizant am I of him who never rests from sowing the seeds of discord 'twixt my father and myself. I King Peace, boy ! — If kith and kin dwell not in amity, where then shall we find it? — Son David, it hath reached our ears that thou hast most grievously injured our dignity and trampled upon the pub- lic justice by setting free a culprit charged with a grave offense 'gainst the state. Prince Sire, the man committed no graver offense than to strike an insolent emissary of my Lord of Al- bany, who had proffered insult to my name. King An excuse at fault! — What right hast thou to intermeddle with the administration of our laws? If injustice were done, thou couldst have obtained the man's freedom from us, without calling down upon thee the censure of all law-abiding subjects. 16 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ROTHSAY In sooth, I thought not of that, and repent me, father. KlXG Too oft hast thou repented and promised to amend. But the burden of carrying out these promises seems too weighty for thy single shoul- ders. Resolved am I, therefore, thou shalt take a companion for life, who will doubtless help thee keep thy good resolutions. RoTHSAY A life companion.'* — Surely Your Majesty would not have me wed.^* — Why, the yoke of Hymen in itself is a greater burden than any I had to bear thus far. King Nay, my dear son, a good wife is ever a bless- ing, not a burden. Such a one you may choose 'twixt the fair daughters of Dunbar and Douglas. Prince A fair choice, gracious sire, but the choosing is unfair; — am I to be confined to two damsels to the exclusion of all the rest of their sex, when the one I would wed should be beloved above all others ? 17 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE King 'Tis needless for thee to love a maiden ere she be thy wife. — Moreover, thou art scarcely pressed in this affair, since thy choice lies 'twixt the two worthiest damsels in the kingdom, one of whom thou wert most fond of some five years since. Prince Children's meeting is oft love at sight, and dis- appears almost as quickly as it comes. King That lovable child hath blossomed into most witching maidenhood since then. I verily believe thou hast but to behold Dunbar's daughter once more, to appreciate her worth. Prince I question much whether the enchanting little damsel deems me worthy of her. — Withal, father, I am too young to be immured so soon within marital walls. King [^Angrily.'] But not too young to have made thy licentious pranks a byword in the kingdom. — Albany, thou hast truly prophesied that being commanded to 18 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE a course would spur him on to disobedience. — Oh, thus wantonly to cross our dearest wishes. [Albany has nodded his head gravely in acquiescence during the foregoing and noxv sighs deeply.^ Prince Oh, if Your Majesty be so strongly determined to have me wed, I will e'en spare my dear Uncle of Albany further sighs, and submit to Your Majesty's will. King I expected no less from thee, my dearest son. \_Church bells heard off i?.] Hark ! the bells are calling us to prayer. Wilt attend service with us.'' Pkince Pray excuse me, father, my mind Is now too much occupied with worldly matters. Albany Alas, that those who walk in the path of evil and need prayer most, should find it so difficult to turn into the way of righteousness. 19 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince Tis passing strange. — And yet, going to church is not always walking in the path of righteousness. My pious Uncle of Albany doth oft " gang " to a church. [Imitates Albany's hypocritical manner during last part of foregoing.^ King [Laughing as he rises.^ He hath thee on the hip there, brother. [Albany, who has clenched his fists dur- ing the foregoing, now forces sickly laugh. ^ Prince [Approaching with love.'\ I would fain offer Your Majesty my arm as far as the chapel. King I give thee thanks, my son. [To Albany, as they cross towards C. D. Wilt not join us in prayer.'' 20 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany I shall be pleased to attend Your Majesty forthwith — [King and Prince exeunt C. D. F.] [Albany, "whose features have changed as they exeunt, speaks with repressed rage.^ How long, oh, how long, am I to bear the af- fronts of that insolent boy, and this doting weak- ling of a king, who tenders countenance to him? Were I not more fit to guide the helm of state? Ramorny [Who has entered R. 2. E., during the last part of the foregoing.'\ Aye, most truly, Your Grace. [Sir John Ramorny is a cool, cynical, and impudent man, speaks slowly and insinuatingly. One of his hands is miss- ing and he wears a stuffed glove, fixed in a natural position at his side. At times he chuckles in a peculiar^ malicious and cynical manner.^ Albany [Startled.] The devil ! 21 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John Not that gentleman In person, but his — I mean Your Highness's — humble emissary ! Albany What wouldst have, Ramorny? Sir John That, Your Grace, which annuls want: money, clinking coin. Albany Did I not grant thee two hundred gold angels a short week since? Sir John Those angels have taken flight. Your Highness ! Gold flees fast when it is in attendance upon the most extravagant Prince in Christendom. Albany I fear my expenditures have been all for naught. The King hath resolved to wed the Prince either to Dunbar's or Douglas's daughter. 22 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John There is naught to fear in that, if we alone could provide the right-wrong wife for Rothsay — he, lie ! Rumor doth picture Douglas's daugh- ter the greatest shrew in the Kingdom. The Prince once wedded to her, will more than ever turn to me and his other jovial and loose com- panions. And thus will he continue to lose the countenance of our nobles and the love of the people. Albany Yea, it behooves us at least to see that Rothsay weds Marjory of Douglas, if wed he must. — Al- beit, my good Ramorny, at present the Prince is the only real obstacle 'twixt the crown and my- self, were " aught " to happen to the King. Sir John Then must we double our efforts to dispatch Rothsay to Kingdom Come ere he weds : — death alone can wipe out his ingratitude to me after losing this good hand for his wantonness. [Indicate ft the stuffed glove fastened at his side.'\ Albany Ah, if the Lord would but deliver him into our hands, then it would be no difficult matter to reach 23 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE the throne. — Yet must I caution thee against acts of open violence that might reflect on us — [McLewis enters C. D. F.] McLewis My gracious Lord, the Lady Douglas and her daughter crave an audience of the King. Albany Ah, in good time! — Show them in. [McLewis bows and exits R. 3. £.] Albany [^Crossing R. with Sib John]. This way, my gentle Ramorny. We may now test the temper of Douglas's daughter. [Sir John chuckles in assent as they ex- eunt R. 2. E.] [Page draws tapestry aside and announces the Lady Douglas and Lady Marjory, as they enter C. D. F.] [^The Lady Douglas is buxom, frigid, and about fifty years old. Marjory is a high-spirited, haughty, and shrewish brunette.'l PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Lady Douglas [Tr^o has advanced ceremoniously into the room, holding Marjory hy the hand; perceives the chair of state to he empty. \ How comes this? No one here to receive us? Marjory \^Vith repressed rage.'\ What a gross affront to our noble house ! And have they so small regard for the Douglas? Where — where is the insolent knave who showed us hither? By St. Bride of Bothwell — [^Advances threateningly toward C. D. F.] Lady Douglas [^Detaining her.^ Peace, Marjory! Pray be patient. When thou art the Prince's consort thou mayest well discover a fitting occasion to repay this slight. Marjory That shall never be ! I will not be cast into the power of this princely libertine. Lady Douglas Peace, peace, daughter, or thou wilt undo all our most cherished plans. 25 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory [Scornfully, and almost in tears.'\ Thy plans, indeed ! A most kindly arrange- ment to bring me hither for inspection to this prince of profligates. Had you for sale a hawk or a horse, I warrant me we'd have received bet- ter treatment — oh! l^She has torn off her fan, which has he- come entangled in her girdle during the foregoing, and now throws it down on table impatiently. '\ Lady Douglas Art mad, wench? Is this the place to exhibit thy choler? Marjory \_Low and tearfully. '\ Oh, I care not — I care not who hears me say that I care naught, naught for this wanton Duke of Rothsay. Lady Douglas Ah, go to — willful maid ! Have I not heard thee hum a kindlier tune of the " noble and gen- tle " Prince? Know I not that he alone is lord of thy heart? 26 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory I did entertain feelings of kindness for him prior to my discovery that he lacks both morals and manners. But I shall wipe out all that. Come, let us back to our lodging, since we find no welcome here. Albany \^Advancing from R. 2. £.] Hearty greetings, noble dame and fair damsel ! His Majesty delegated to me the pleasant task of welcoming his noble guests. Marjory [With a sneer. 1 Is it not consistent with the dignity of the crown to greet the wife and daughter of mighty Douglas in person? Albany I cry you mercy, fair lady, the King was at prayer when your Ladyship arrived. Lady Douglas Oh, for shame, child ! [Then to Albany.] I pray you heed her not, my gracious lord; the maid is much disturbed by fatigue. 27 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany Then would I fain offer to Your Ladyship both rest and refreshment in yonder chamber. ^Indicates back.^ Lady Douglas We are much bounded to Your Grace. [Albany draws tapestry aside, C. D. F., for Lady Douglas, who courtesys gra- ciously as she exits. She is followed by IMakjory, who proudly carries her head in the air. Albany smiles with satis- faction and exits after them. Ramorny advances, chuckling, from R. 2. E.'\ Ramorny By my knighthood, the very wife for Rothsay ! Her " mild " disposition would drive the doughti- est man to dissipation, much less a weakling like our Prince, He, he! [Prince enters R. 2. E.'\ Sir John [Ow perceiving him.'\ Ah, my sweet Prince, from whence came you? 28 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince l^With mock solemnity.'\ From church, my good Sir John. I withdrew, unperceivcd, the moment the excellent bishop be- gan to preach upon the prodigal. [^Indicates himself .^ You seemed o'er merry as I came in ! Sir John l^ChuckUng.^ And why not, when I succeeded in ruffling His Graceless Grace of Albany anent the Daughter of Douglas, who was here a short while since. Be- shrew me, Rothsay, she is the rarest maiden in Scotland. Prince Pray inform me if the damsel be fair as well as rare. Sir John Fair is but a weak term to describe a paragon ! In sooth, she is the most bewitching, sweetest, " gentlest " and most celestial of all damsels. Rothsay A right good lass ! If she be all that you de- scribe, then will both love and duty guide me into her good graces. 29 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John Troth, Your Royal Highness is there ah'eady. Ah, my dear Prince, I would you had heard with what graceful terms she graced your princely person ! Prince Thou hast filled me with desire to meet this rare paragon. Sir John That is easily effected. As good fortune would have it, the maid left her fan behind, {^Pick's it up frovi chair. ^ ere she departed for the antechamber, and I doubt not, would be most pleased to have Scotland's Prince return it to her. Prince [Taking fan.'\ Ah, thou art a jewel, Ramorny. [Marjory re-enters C. D. F. Starts on perceiving Prince, then looks around the room, trying to appear uncon- cerned.^ 30 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John [/n whisper to Prince.] 'Tis she! l^Makes a significant gesture for him to ad- vance to her and exits R. 2. E.'\ Prince [Advancing to her, proffering fan.'\ Art perchance seeking this — most fair lady? Marjory [Taking fan from him.'\ I thank thee, Sir Prince. [Crosses as if to exit C. D. F.] Prince Nay — tarry a while, gentle mistress. Marjory [Turning halfway aroimd.'\ What is Your Royal Highness's pleasure with me.'' Prince [Taking her hand familiarly, and drawing near her.^ But to please thee, my bonnie lass. 81 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory [Withdrawing her hand.'\ I am far from being thy " bonnie lass," and it doth not please me to have thee quite so near. Prince Ha, ha, ha! Thy dear self is likely to be all mine ere long. [Secures her hands and proceeds play- fully.'] Knowst thou not that this fair hand hath been proffered unto me? Marjory [Offended.] Proffered, my Lord? Your Highness is pleased to make game of sacred things. Prince Ah, 'tis best to jest with Dan Cupid. The little imp oft becomes a tyrant if we regard him sa- credly, so let us make merry while we may. [Drawing her toward him playfully.] Thou hast no reason to be coy with me, sweet damsel. For denying me thy fair hand, I shall e'en make bold to taste those tempting lips, [Kisses her on head in the attempt to kiss her on lips.] 32 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory [TF^o has tried to disengage herself.'\ Oh ! How darest thou ! l^Throzcs him off passionately. '\ Thou wilt find my hand about thy ears, insolent Prince, if thou darest approach me again. Prince I — I believe it no harm to kiss one who was like to become my wife. — Art thou in sooth Mar- jory, the gentle daughter of the Earl of Douglas? Marjory For cert, my father is called Earl of Douglas, but I was not aware they had surnamed me " the gentle." Prince I cry you mercy, fair lady, I knew not that the surname " gentle " would offend Your Ladyship. Marjory Art resolved upon insulting me, Sir Prince? Prince Oh, not so, fair maid. Indeed, I regret that Your Ladyship should choose to be insulted by all I say and do. 33 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE IMarjory And how should I be otherwise? Dost think a maiden of gentle nurture can be approached in like manner as a tavern hussy? Prince Had I known my gallantry would be thus re- sented, I had not ventured near Your Ladyship. Marjory It is thy lack of gallantry that I do resent, thy insolent air of easy conquest. — A maid would fain be wooed ere she is won. — And so, let us hope thou wilt learn to amend thy manners. l^Courtesys slightly and exits C. D. F.] Prince [^Stares after her for a moment, then mut- ters angrily. '\ A murrain seize Ramorny. How dare he rec- ommend this Xantippe to me? By St. Andrew, I am resolved to have no more of it. [^Crosses as if to exit C. D. F., when the Earl, of March and Elizabeth appear at C. D. F. Both Elizabeth and Prince start on recognizing each other. '\ 34 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE March \_As they advance into cha7nber.'\ Health and joy, gracious Prince. Prince Greetings, my noble lord, to you — and to your fair daughter. March I'm rejoiced to see Your Highness hath not for- gotten the playfellow of thy tender years. Prince Ah, my lord, I could never forget the peerless Lady Elizabeth of Dunbar, though I know not whether she cares to be remembered by me. [Elizabeth starts forward as if to speak, hut stops short on recalling herself .^ March I fear we owe Your Grace an explanation : Our nurse informed me as we prepared for our jour- ney hither, that she oft intercepted love tokens that Your Highness sent, after visiting us at Dun- bar Castle, This she did, believing that our child was too young to play at Cupid's game. 35 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince And I believed my youthful affections were spurned, and for many a day railed about the inconstancy of all womankind. March I humbly crave Your Highness's pardon for our nurse. Prince 'Tis freely granted, my noble lord, since 'tis not too late to pick up the threads of our game of hearts. In sooth, the King well knew that I had but to behold the charming Lady Elizabeth once more to appreciate her great worth. March I am rejoiced to hear that my gracious sover- eign entertains so favorable an opinion of my daughter, and shall seek an early occasion to thank His Majesty. Prince [Designedly. 1 The King is at present in the chapel, where he would doubtless be most pleased to see Your Lordship join his distinguished retinue. 36 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE March And meanwhile will Your Royal Highness grant me leave to trust my daughter to your care? Pkixce I am most bound to Your Lordship for so fair a charge. March Then will I rejoin His Majesty forthwith. \^Bozts and exits C. D. F.] [Clioir of monks and nuns, organ, etc., is heard during the following. Prince now advances eagerly toward Eliza- beth, who has also advanced impulsively toward him, hut stops short on recall- ing herself, and casts her eyes down.^ Prince And so we're alone once more. Ah, It doth seem like those glad days of yore, when we were wont to steal away so that we might frolic where no one else was nigh. l^Gives a boyish laugh, which ends in a sigh.] 37 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth [With pout.] Methinks Your Highness made but little effort to shorten all these years. Prince But thou knowest that the fault was not en- tirely my own, gracious lady. Withal, I most humbly crave forgiveness for ever doubting thee. Elizabeth I'm forced to grant it, for in good sooth I'm guilty of a like fault toward Your Royal High- ness. Prince Nay, nay, I protest. Thou art faultless in all, sweet saint. Elizabeth [Look'mg down shyly.] I perceive thou hast learned to flatter since last we met. Prince I were dull indeed if I remained insensible to thy many rare charms, so far above any eulogy my speech would fain attempt. The most a Prince can hope for is to worship at so heavenly, so exquisite a shrine. 38 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth \^With deep, girlish concern-l Ah me ! I — I have heard of a Prince who doth worship at many shrines. Pkince Nay, most bewitching lass, by my soul I swear I've never known true love away from thee. Elizabeth I beseech Your Grace to take heed, for my heart is apt to believe thee, though all the world speaks to the contrary. Prince Then still barken unto the dictates of thy heart which alone can feel for mine. Ah, fairest of the fair, when thy lovely eyes once more encountered mine, in a flash my boyish affection for the child sprang into ardent, manly love for the most beauteous of maids — a powerful love that would be sure to resist all temptation. — Oh, Elizabeth, I know that in thy purity and goodness I could drown all that is evil within me, and if thou wilt only vouchsafe to reign in my heart, my being must become engrafted with naught but what is noble and worthy of thee. 39 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth [/w rapture, murm^crs.'] Oh, Prince ! \_Then shyly, looking down at ■firsts'] Perchance 'twere more maidenlike to dissemble a while, but I — I cannot. I needs must avow that since Your Highness's presence dawned upon me at Dunbar Castle, every pulse of my being, each throb of my heart has been beating for thee — only for thee. Night and day I dreamed of the time when we should meet once more ; thy image was ever before me, for thou, thou alone art the idol of my existence. Prince [TT^Ao has secured Elizabeth's hand dur- ing the foregoing, now draws her shrink- ing form toward him with great tender- ness.^ Ah, thou art indeed mine — mine forever more. \^She sighs in ecstasy and looks up toward him full of trust, zchereupon he bends over and kisses her in rapture.^ [After their lips meet there is heard at a little distance the solemn clang of a heavy church hell, out of tune with the choir of the monks and nuns, which has swelled into the ominous melody of 40 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE " Dies Irce." Elizabeth is somewhat startled; Prince draws her closer to him, smiling at her reassuringly; the clang of the bell is repeated at regular intervals. The glow of the sun from window illumines Elizabeth and the Prince.] Curtain 41 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ACT II Scene. — The garden in the Ahhey of the Holy Cross, .with lofty trees on B. and L. Stone bench underneath tree L. C. Vine-covered portal R. Jf.. E. The ground rises toward back. The castle is at a distance on R., dark and somber, with lights here and there, which increase as the act progresses. Rocky coun- try, full of light a7id shade, against trans- parent, pearly sky in background. Trees, bushes, flowers, foliage, pathways, grass, etc. At rise, birds are heard singing in garden, and roysterers are heard singing at a dis- tance, gradually coming nearer during fol- lowing. Time. — Early evening; the celebrated gloamvng of Scotland. Discovered. — Prince and Elizabeth on stone bench L. C, hand in hand; the Prince is gazing at her zvistfully, while she shyly looks down. ROTHSAY \^After a slight pause.'\ How delightful it is to have thee at my side once more. 42 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth [With a sigh of happiness.'] My being overflows with bliss. The whole world seems filled with glorious joy because thou and I love. ROTHSAY [Drawing toward her.] None — none are so happy as we. Elizabeth Ah, my Prince, I fear our great love is too rapturous to last. RoTHSAY Nay, there is naught to fear, sweetest Bess ; love like ours can never die. Elizabeth In sooth, I cannot tell why, but at times my heart is oppressed by evil forebodings. There's an undercurrent of doubt in all this joy. Per- chance I have not deserved so much bliss. 43 PRIXCE AXD PROFLIGATE ROTHSAY Nay, my most pure and sweet saint, you merit all the joys of life. Alas! 'tis I who do not even deserve to touch this fair hand. \_Rcnses her hand to his lips-l Oh, thou hast but little reason to love me — Elizabeth Nay, I will not hear thee slander him I wor- ship. Love is above and beyond all earthly rea- son. He whom I love cannot be otherwise than most fair, most noble, and all that is good. Roth SAY That thou alone art my adored angel, one sent on earth to transform my existence. [Gradually draxving tozcard her.^ With thee beside me, my life needs must be one grand, triumphant march toward glorious achieve- ment. Thou hast filled my being with lofty ideals, and inspired me with a will to do and dare all! Oh, I shall yet deserve thee. Elizabeth Nay, nay, 'tis I who am unworthy of thee, my Prince. [^They emhrace.'\ [Roysterers are heard singing off R., gradually coming nearer.'\ PRI^XE AXD PROFLIGATE A bonnie lass and a jolly good glass And the world is stop't of sorrow. So take jour fling, both carl and king, And the de'il may care for the morrow. [Sir John Ramorny, Laird of Glencove (an inebriate lord), Peter, Bonthune, Errol, Ritchie aiid Oliphaxt {swash- bucklers of the period), enter R. 3. E., singing.'\ The world has woe and trouble enow Then why should we go sorrow.'^ So we sup and swig till our heads grow big. And the de'il may care for the morrow ! l^For other verses and music see last page of this act.'\ Laird of Glencove l^Holds up his hand on perceiving Prince with Elizabeth, to silence his compan- ions.'] Hush ! Perchance we are disturbing our m-most roj-al wag, who hath found good-fellow- ship in a bonnie lass, e'en without the jolly good glass. [Prince and Elizabeth have disengaged during the foregoing, Elizabeth look- ing down in confusion, while Prince is slightly annoyed, as the roysterers laugh.] 45 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince Why, friends, what frolic is this? Laird of Glencove \^Somewhat intoxicated, bowing very low.~\ M-most illustrious Prince — Several of the Company Hear ! Hear ! Laird of Glencove [^Continues, with elaborate emphasis-l M-most loath are we to break in upon Your Royal Highness' m-most pressing affair ! [Repressed laughter from Roysterers. Peter repeats in loud whisper, " press- ing affair."^ • — but our merry friends delegated us to bring their m-most royal leader to the m-most brilliant fete they hold this night in his honor. Peter Well spoken, me Laird! [Others murmur in approval " Aye — aye.--] 46 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince {^Smiling.'] My merry good friends, prithee inform the rest of the good company that I crave their pardon, but this night I am engaged — at another feast. [The Company looks at each other, and one of them murmurs knowingly, wink, etc.'] Sir John [^Advances, speaking with repressed con- cern.] Will not Your Royal Highness at least come over and partake of a cup of good old Cypress wine with us? Indeed, our companions would be disconsolate should their gracious lord altogether deprive our banquet of its life and soul. Prince J^Low, to Sir John.] My dear Ramorny, I cannot forego the nectar of the gods [With glance at Elizabeth,] for any earthly beverage. [Then aloud.] Pray make my excuses to our worthy friends, and tell them to consider me present in spirit at 47 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE their festivities this evening. And also bid them drink for me heartily to the health of the peerless maiden who detains my body and soul here. Laird of Glencove Aye, we'll pledge her m-most heartily, Peter We'll drink to both your healths. BoNTHUNE and Ritchie Aye, we'll drink to the peerless maid. Oliphant I warrant I'll drink a flagon full.. A t the same time. Laird of Glencove l^Bowing elaborately. '\ And so, then, we must m-most humbly and re- gretfully take our leave. [The Roisterers salute, laughing, etc. Prince and Elizabeth return their salutation good-humor edly . All exeunt L. 3. E. with the exception of Sir John, •who stops hesitatingly as he is about to exit R. 3. E, Presently one of the roysterers is heard singing during the foUoxcing, his clear tenor voice receding in the distance.'\ 48 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE ROYSTERER Oh, sweet is the heather that blooms for the bee, But sweeter is the lassie that blooms but for me. Far sweeter than all the merry, merry din Of the jolly good fellows who join in the inn. Prince l^LoiC, to Elizabeth.] Come, my best beloved, let us go to a less fre- quented spot. \_Places an arm around her as they exeunt L. 3. £.] Sir John [^Comes forward angrily."] Drink to her.'' May I choke in the wine if I do ! Sblood ! That a man should forego the friends, whom he has known all his life, for a slip of a damsel whom he seems to have known scarce a week ! So much bliss for the Prince bodes us but little joy. Oh, I must after him, and make another attempt to bring him away. [Exit R. 3. £.] [JNIarjory enters L. 3. E., in the attire of a Douglas page, and crosses R., look- ing off R. 3. £.] [She is followed hy the Lady Douglas, who watches her. Marjory makes a movement as if to exit R. 3. E., when:] 49 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Lady Douglas [Calls to her.'\ Stay, madcap, stay ! [Marjory stops short, and tries to cover her surprise and confusion; then, as- suming masculine voice and air, turns toward Lady Douglas.] Marjory Art addressing thyself to me, good dame? Lady Douglas Dame me no dames, Marjory. I saw through thy disguise the moment I set eyes on thee. For shame, wench! How darest thou don male ap- parel in a place like this? Dost think thou art in our castle, where thou wert wont to play the boy and fence with thy father's man-at-arms? Marjory {Hesitatingly.'] What if I should say — I know not whereof Your Ladyship speaks? Lady Douglas Then thy wits must have surely gone astray, else thou hadst not donned this shameful attire and made so bold attempt to bring disgrace on our noble house. 50 PRINCE AXD PROFLIGATE IVIarjory Art sure, good lady, thou art not laboring un- der a misapprehension? Lady Douglas \^Losing all patience.l Out upon thee, jade, I know thee full well in spite of thy assurance. Come thou not to our lodging upon the instant, I shall to thy father and acquaint him of thy shameful behavior. Marjory [^Shrugs her shoulders and turns half away.^ Oh, very well. Lady Douglas I warrant it shall not be well with thee. Thy father will bring thee to thy senses right sud- denly. [^Exits angrily L. 3. E.'] Marjory Ah, mother's meddling will ruin all. How could I, in my proper person, discover the true state of affairs 'twixt the Prince and this Eliza- beth of Dunbar? [Ramorny re-enters R. 3. E., angrily and disappointed.'\ 51 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Ramorny [^Mutters as he enters.'] Why would he not be parted from her? [On crossing L., perceives Marjory, stops short, regards her for a moment, then, as an idea dawns upon him, places his hand upon her shoulder.] I give you good day, fair youth. Marjory [Draws away in a girlish manner.] Sir, 'tis evening now. Sir John I do opine 'tis evening now with those who wear the badge of the bloody heart. The sun has set upon the House of Douglas after the Prince rebuffed their daughter. Marjory How! Rebuffed? Sir John Why, by espousing the daughter of March. Marjory I wish him joy of her — yet fail to see aught in common 'twixt the daughter of Douglas and her of Dunbar. PRIXCE AXD PROFLIGATE Sir John You say true; there is but little in common 'twixt them, since the Prince hath taken to his tender regard the daughter of Dunbar, and hath disregarded her of Douglas. IMarjory I was not aware that any regard ever existed 'twixt the Prince and Lady Marjory of Douglas that needed disregarding. Sir John And I have heard from — one who should know, that the lady holds the Prince in fond esteem. 'Tis said she came hither all the way from Lanark- shire to court his affection ; but the Prince fairly shook her off. Marjory [With suppressed anger. '\ Sir Knight, if thou dost not charm thy unruly tongue, there be those who might pluck it out. Sir John Thou art a plucky youngster, to say as much to me. Know, sirrah, thou hast the honor of addressing the Master of Horse to the Prince of Scotland. " 53 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory Who is, I dare say, as big a poltroon as his master. Sir John How, knave ! But I blame thee not, for in good sooth the Prince hath grievously injured the House of Douglas, and it would not surprise me if some doughty follower of the Bloody Heart should call him to account for it. Marjory And so the Duke of Rothsay boasts that the Lady Marjory of Douglas bears regard for him? Ramorny Ask that of the Prince himself, who is walking yonder. But, pray, do not be over-impetuous, as Rothsay loves not the sight of steel. \^Bows, glances angrily off R., and exits L. 3. £.] Marjory So, the master is as white-livered as the man. And to be slighted by such as he ! To make a mockery, a byword of mc ! Oh, I could tear my heart out for ever thinking of him. [Almost hursts into tears, hut recalls her- self.^ 54 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE 'Tis unmanly to weep, and I must be what I appear. [Looks off R.] Ah, there he is, happy with her, whilst I — Oh, that I could kill them both ! \_Steps aside as Prince and Elizabeth re-enter R. 3. E., absorbed in each other; his arm is around her waist. ^ Prince [To Elizabeth, as they cross L.] I swear thou alone art the fountain of all my joys. I could have loved none but thee. [Marjory clenches her hands, and re- presses an exclamation of rage as she crosses R., near Elizabeth, so as to take a good look at her.^ Prince What manner of an unmannerly youth have we here ? Marjory [Stops short. With suppressed anger.'\ who can teach good r — whose livery thou wearest One who can teach good manners to the Prince Prince Thinkest thou, boy, the Prince needs mending in his manners.'^ 55 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory None more than he, as I am ready with my sword to maintain and prove. Prince [^Laughs, tJien:'\ Wert thou a man, I might take some note of tliy speech. Marjory {^Regarding Prince keenly in fear of dis- covery.^ Were I a man.^* [^Assured that she is not discovered.'\ Thou wilt find me man enough to chastise such as thou art. I — I wear a sword. Sir Squire. Prince [Mockingly. '\ Art sure 'tis a sword, Sir Malapert.'' Marjory \^With suppressed anger. ~\ I'll make thee feel of its point ere we adjust our dispute. Prince If thy sword be as sharp as thy tongue, I needs must exercise great care — But, in good sooth, I know of no dispute 'twixt the followers of Doug- las and the Prince. 56 PRINCE AXD PROFLIGATE Marjory [7n resenfment.'\ Ah, all — all know that the chicken-hearted Prince hath most grievously injured the great House of Douglas, which I have the honor to serve. Prince And in what manner hath the Prince injured that large house? Marjory [Angrily.] Oh, thou art bound to drag it from me, that he hath slighted, scorned and insulted Marjory of Douglas, and then with insolent effrontery boasted of her love for him, as if any lady could love a simpering craven like our knave of a prince. Prince [Beginning to become serious.] Thou hadst better use more discretion in speak- ing of thy betters, or thou'lt find more fighting than thou dost seek. Marjory [Scornf.ullij.] And who, pray, will dare stand 'gainst a Douglas ? 57 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince Tarry here but a while, until in safety I be- stow tliis maiden, and I myself shall be pleased to discuss this matter further with thee. Maujory An excuse at fault for running away. Prince How, knave? Dost think I fear theef Elizabeth [To Prince.] I pray you heed him not. [Then to Marjory.] My good youth, prithee, have a care — Marjory Ah, hast found thy tongue, my pretty puppet? Thou wilt find, however, it will afford but little protection to thy cowardly lover. Prince [Becoming serious. '\ What insolence ! Knowst thou, sirrah, to whom thou speakest? Marjory" One who would fain screen himself behind the petticoats of his mistress. 58 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince l^Draxcing Jiis sword.^ By Heavens, thou shalt have no cause to say that. Elizabeth [CUnging to Prince.] Nay, nay, David ! Forbear ! Prince [^Gentlt/ disengaging himself .'\ Hold off, I pray ; unloose me, dearest. I needs must chastise this shrewish champion of the inso- lent Douglas. ^ [Marjory, who has drawn her sword, flies at the Prince with a cry of repressed rage. He meets her sword with his. Elizabeth screams as Marjory rushes upon Prince, then calls out.^ Elizabeth [Following them.l Treason ! Help ! Ho !— Help ! Oh, God have mercy ! Ah, take heed — take heed ! [After a few passes. Prince wounds Mar- jory in the arm. The sword falls from her hand and she utters a cry.^ 59 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [^Contemptuously. '\ Go, take up thy weapon. Marjory [In girlish, hysterical rage, and sohs.'\ Nay! Complete — complete thy handiwork, treacherous — unchivalrous boor — thou — thou — Oh! [Reels as if to fall.'] Prince [TFAo has regarded her with surprise dur- ing the foregoing outbursts, extends his hand to her to prevent her from falling, and then mutters apart.] By Heavens ! 'Tis a woman ! [Murmurs of alarm, etc., have been heard from without during foregoing, and now Sir John Ramorny, the Laird of Glencove, Errol, Ritchie, Peter, and BoNTHUNE, with swords in hand and without their bonnets, as if risen hastily from their cups. McLewis, with a few of the Brandane Guard, enter noisily from L. Some of them have their swords drawn.] 60 PRINCE AXD PROFLIGATE Laird of Glencove [Speaking as he enters.'\ What! Our Prince assailed? Peter and Some of the Others [^Drawing their swords.^ Treason ! Treason ! Sir John \^Ad-vancing upon Marjory.'\ Beat him down ! Cut him to pieces ! Prince Forbear! 'Tis naught! Stand off! Put up your weapons. l^They obey the Prince.] -Same time. Laird of Glencove Why ! how came this about .'' Sir John Art hurt, my Prince? Prince Not I, Sir John. [Sir John shows signs of disappoint- ment. 1 61 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth l^Advancing to Marjory.] Let me bind up thy wound. Marjory Nay, touch me not ! I would sooner die than receive aid at thy hands. McLewis [Coming for'ward.'\ Leave me to deal with this wild stripling; his troubles will soon be o'er, since he hath incurred the penalty of death by drawing his sword 'gainst the heir apparent. [^To his men.'\ Secure him! Marjory Heavens ! [^Raises her hand to her head as if to swoon. Prince takes hold of her arm. Guards advance to secure her.'] Prince Nay, stand oJff! 'Twas I began the quarrel. This youth knew not my rank. It is my pleasure that he depart in peace. \^To Marjory.] 62 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE I, myself, will see thee safely out of this. [Then to Elizabeth.] Come, come with us, dearest. Mar J GUY [Faintly, with repressed love, as she al- lows herself to be led out by the Prixce.] Nay, trouble not ; I care but little for life now. [Prince and Marjory and Elizabeth, who is somewhat surprised, exeunt R. 3. £.] Laird of Glencove Our m-most noble Prince was ever too ready to forgive his enemies. Peter [Grumbling. '[ Too soft-hearted by half, bah ! [The Men separate R. and L., murmuring, etc., and exeunt, except Sir John, who looks off R., puzzled, shrugs his shoul- ders, then chuckles.^ [Albany enters L. 3. E.'] Albany [Q7tickly, advancing to Sir John.] How now, Ramorny, rumor hath it that the Prince assailed and wounded a retainer of the Douglas. 63 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John The Prince hath admitted as much — in good sooth, however, it was a retainer of the Douglas who assailed the Prince, at my instigation. Albany And the result is but another failure. Sir John Not altogether. Your Grace. I warrant the Earl of Douglas will take care that the Prince shall pay the piper for his sword dance with one of his followers. Albany Meaning My Lord of Douglas himself as piper ? Sir John Aye, truly. The crossing of swords between the Prince and a follower of the Douglas may be made into a weapon whereby we might cross his match with Dunbar. I opine the Earl will pipe lustily to wedding strains for his daughter's marriage to the Prince. Rothsay owes redress to the House of Douglas, and it must be our care that it should be in the form of Rothsay's hand for their shrew- ish daughter. 64. PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany Thy counsel rings true. Rothsay loves March's daughter too well to suit our designs. [^Murmurs, footsteps, etc., are heard from zclthout L.] But look you ! Here comes the Douglas. [Douglas enters L. 3. E., in a passion, followed hy a few attendants.'\ Douglas This should be the place where they fought. [XooA's round.^ Ah, my Lord of Albany ! Know you aught of this fray.'' Albany 'Tis simple enough. Our Prince hath most grievously wounded one of Your Lordship's re- tainers. Douglas [}Vith suppressed rage.'] S'life ! Your Grace speaks most calmly anent so grave an injury to our noble house! And where — where is this wild stripling, that dares thus to shed the blood of Douglas? Albany Pray be patient, my Lord. Remember you speak of the heir apparent. 65 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Douglas God's blood ! Am I to brook the insult and injury of this young libertine? When a Prince fails to remember what is due to his nobles, the nobles may well forget what is owing to their Prince. And by St. Bride of Bothwell, I will chastise him, were he a thousand times the heir apparent ! Albany Yet calm thee, my Lord; pause a while. 'Tis no light affair to chastise the Prince of Scotland. Douglas I abjure my fealty to this Prince. The descend- ant of Douglas may well throw down the gaunt- let to a descendant of the Stuart. Zounds ! 'tis beyond human endurance to bear so many insults. Albany I pray Your Lordship will remember that this place is filled with the Brandane Guard, who would cut to pieces anyone who would dare lift a finger 'gainst their Prince. Douglas What! Does Your Grace threaten? Gads, wounds ! I was never in better humor to attempt a heat with Brandane or any other guard. 66 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany Nay, calm you, my Lord. I do not counsel abject submission to all these indignities, I but advise Your Lordship to direct your wrath into the proper channel. The wise make their failures stepping-stones to success. Douglas Oh, I am in no humor to dawdle with riddles. Albany Then Your Lordship must pardon my blunt speech. 'Tis given out the Prince hath wantonly refused thy daughter's hand — Douglas [Deeply chagrined.'\ 'Tis unnecessary to recount in detail all our wrongs. Albany I crave your patience, my Lord ; 'tis my pur- pose to submit means wherewith all these wrongs may be righted. Douglas Oh, it matters not ; we ne'er pressed our alliance upon anyone. 67 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany Surely not ; and yet an alliance with Our Royal House is not to be despised. I opine 'twere little to Your Lordship's liking to hold your earldom under Scotland's King if Elizabeth of Dunbar, the daughter of Douglas's direst enemy, be Scot- land's queen. Douglas I have said but now that the dastardly conduct of the Prince hath wiped away any allegiance I might owe to the House of Stuart. Albany Your allegiance cannot be wiped out by mere words. Your will would have to be maintained 'gainst that of all Scotland. This would mean a long and bloody war, dread war that should be invoked only when all else has failed. There are ways less troublesome whereby Your Lordship's aims might be attained, if you will but deign listen to me — Douglas [With repressed anger.'] Say on, say on, my Lord. I am patient, most patient. 68 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany Were it not good policy to smoothe over all difference 'twixt the Prince and Your Lordship,, by Rothsay's hand being tendered in marriage ta Marjory of Douglas? Douglas I am acquainted with the sharpness of my sword, but not with the intricacies of policy. Albany Yet policy is the sharper weapon of the two, and if Your Lordship will but leave this affair in my hands, I will seek the King forthwith, and I warrant the Douglas shall soon triumph over the House of March. Douglas Your Grace may do as you see fit. I will curb my wrath meanwhile. Should we not receive full redress, then, by my faith, Douglas's sword shall right Douglas's wrong. [^Exits L. 3. E., followed by his Reta'mers.l 69 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Ramorny [^Advancing to Albany.] The Earl dances well to our music, and now if we could but bring the King and Prince to our tune, the success of our enterprise is assured. [King enters R. 3. E., attended by Mc- Lewis and a few Brandane Guards. He seems weak and agitated.^ Albany l^With forced sternness to Ramorny, upon perceiving King.] Stand off, sirrah! There's no excuse for His Royal Highness. King l^Speaking anxiously to Albany as he ad- vances.^ Ah, brother, hast seen naught of my David? Albany Nay, sire; I opine he is keeping himself from the just wrath of the mighty Douglas. King [To McLewis, anxiously.^ My faithful Brandanes, go, go — seek the Prince forthwith. See to it that no harm comes to him. [McLewis salutes and exits with Bran- danes R. S. £.] 70 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King [Sitting on the bench L. C] Ah, my poor, thoughtless boy ! That his un- lucky star should conspire with his foolhardy spirit to make a deadly enemy of this powerful Earl. . . . We must look to the safety of the Prince, at all costs. Would I knew the where- abouts of the Douglas ! Albany The wrathful chief departed from here but a short time since, vowing deadly vengeance 'gainst the Prince, who hath assuredly injured him most grievously. Not content with spurning and in- sulting Douglas's daughter, Rothsay needs must pick a quarrel with his retainer, and well nigh murder him. ' King Oh, wretched boy ! that naught but brawling and disorder should follow in his steps. Albany This latest disorder is far deeper than Your Majesty suspects. The dread Earl, being justly enraged with our Royal House, doth threaten to renounce his fealty to the crown, and is e'en now gathering his followers to levy war. 71 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King God 'a' mercy ! Is civil war again to shake our distracted kingdom? Albany 'Tis even so, sire, unless we allay the tumult of Douglas's passion. King Aye — we must find the means whereby so desira- ble an end might be reached. Albany Sire, this misfortune hath given me grave con- cern, and I have but now sounded the Earl upon it. It seems his shattered hope of an alliance with our Royal House rankles more deeply within him than the loss of a score of followers. The physic for this hurt doth lie with the offending cause — • our Rothsay, who perforce must wed Douglas's daughter. King Thou knowest full well that Elizabeth, the daughter of March, is the Prince's choice. Albany My gracious liege, their betrothal will ne'er have the sanction of our state of parliament if it be the cause of bringing fire and sword into our kingdom. The Douglas is far more powerful than the Earl of March, and offers a larger dowry. 72 PRIXCE AXD PROFLIGATE Certs ! 'twould be of greater vantage to have the Prince wed the Lady Marjory. King But, brother, by ministering unto one wound you but open another. I have marked David and EKzabeth together. The Prince loves the maiden. Albany A prince must be above the common passion of love when reason of state demands its sacrifice. 'Twere well he learned betimes that private weal must give way to public welfare. Poor Rothsay ! He hath " sown the wind and now must reap the whirlwind." King Nay, thou art too harsh, Albany. Princes and paupers are alike — human. Other means must we seek to pacify the turbulent Earl. Albany Perchance if we were to imprison the Prince for a while — King Forbear to speak! I dare not trust Rothsay from my sight. Could we not, instead, place this unruly Earl under restraint? Albany Impossible, sire. The Douglas is by this time in the midst of his followers, and it would only 73 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE bring on an assault should we attempt to take their chief. King But how can a father destroy his own child's happiness ? Albany Ah, sire, think of the thousands of human be- ings whom relentless war would make childless and fatherless, ere you consider your own paternal feeling. A king is not only the ruler, but is also, to a certain extent, the father of all his people. King Nay, kings are often the slaves of the people — slaves whose duty it is to even sacrifice their own flesh and blood for them. Albany Stern necessity as well as duty bids us submit. The Douglas retainers and partisans far out- number any force we might muster against them at present. Your Majesty and I are too old, and Rothsay is too young, to wage war 'gainst the mightiest man in Scotland. We but court certain defeat should we engage in battle at once. King [^Sighs deeply.'] Perforce, then we must e'en submit — and per- mit thy counsel to prevail. 74 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany [With repressed eagerness.'\ And shall I have the Douglas apprised of Your Majesty's decision forthwith, so as to avert pos- sible conflict? King There seems no other safe course left for us. Albany I will myself see to it. [^Exits quickly L. 2. £.] King Oh, my poor bairn ! My poor bairn ! l^Murmurs, etc., have been heard during the foregoing, gradually coming nearer, and now the Prince enters R. 3. E., at the head of the Brandane Guard, followed by the Laird of Glencove, Peter, Oliphant, Ritchie, Errol, BoNTHUNE, Ramorny and others, who stop when they reach the King and salute.^ Prince [Advancing.li Father, it is spread abroad that the Douglas revolted 'gainst our Royal House. 75 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE King [Veri^ uneasily.]^ My son, the Earl has threatened as much. Prince Then must we forthwith collect our forces and crush rebellion in its inception. \^Murmurs of approval from Laird of Glencove and others: " Aye, we will crush /iim."] To arms, my friends ! Let the horns sound the call to arms. Gather your retainers- and put on the panoply of war. I myself will lead you 'gainst the traitorous Douglas. Laird of Glencove Hail to our brave Prince ! Others Hail, hail ! Come, let us arm — to arms ! [They raise their swords, full of martial ardor, salute the King, and exit R. and L. Preparations for war, etc., heard during following. '\ [The King appears to be in great per- plexity, evidently at a loss what course to pursue.^ 76 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany [TT7io has re-entered during the last part of the foregoing-l My princely nephew, while I must commend thy valor, yet I'm forced to condemn thy counsel. Think what horrible effusion of blood would result from thy advice. The streets of Edinburgh are no fit place for a battle ground, and we would only bring on a most dreadful massacre. King Alas ! 'tis even so. We are unprepared for war. I am broken down and crippled and utterly unfit to cope with the powerful Douglas. The horrible consequence of deadly strife must be avoided. Prince l^With feeling.'] And why? Why, my royal father, why should a king yield to a subject.'' Does the House of Stuart or that of Douglas reign in Scotland? Are we a pack of cravens? And e'en if some of us be the slaves of fear, is it safe to show it? Albany It is far more unsafe to embark upon an un- just quarrel; e'en kings must hearken to the voice 77 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE of Justice. Our very throne would be greatly imperiled should we put our contentions to a bloody issue. Prince .There is far greater peril in ignoble peace. If we basely submit, without striking a single blow, what then is to become of our royal prerogative? For myself, I would sooner leave the last drop of my heart's blood on the field of battle, than allow this presumptuous Earl to dictate to his lawful King. King Rothsay, my son, we have discovered both an honorable and peaceful way out of this dangerous pass. On thy account alone have the fierce clouds of war gathered upon our peaceful horizon, and thou alone, my son, must dispel them. I — have learned that we might allay the wrath of the Douglas, and strengthen the sovereignty of our house, by plighting thy hand in marriage to his daughter — Prince Sire, both my hand and heart have been plight- ed by me to the fair Elizabeth of IMarch. King Alas ! my son, a marriage 'twixt March's daugh- ter and thee is not feasible ; our state of parlia- 78 PRINCE AXD PROFLIGATE ment would not sanction it. — Nor could I do so now. — All favor the daughter of Douglas — Prince Good heavens ! . . . Would ye extinguish the guiding star that has dawned upon my existence and blight all my hopes.? She and I are bound by mutual love. Oh ! I cannot — I cannot re- nounce her. Think, father, what you ask — King I ask thee, my dear son, to spare the lives of my innocent subjects. I ask thee to spare thy aged father the awful thought that his son's mis- conduct hath plunged our country into desolating war. Prince But, father, our great love cannot be crushed ; she hath become part of my being. No, no, it may not be. I could never relinquish her. The very thought of it breaks my heart. King Thousands of hearts will break if we are forced to engage in cruel strife. I know 'tis a great sacrifice we ask, but it is worthy of thee, my noble bairn ! 79 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany [To the Prince.] Withal, 'tis too late to remonstrate now, since the King hath solemnly pledged thy hand to Douglas's daughter, but a short while since. Prince Father, say 'tis not so. Thou hast not done this — thou hast not wrecked all my future happi- ness ! King [Uneasily, his eyes cast dowii.'\ We had no other means of avoiding immediate conflict. Prince Then 'tis true.? 'Tis true — Oh, my God! [Raises his clenched hands to his head, overcome with grief. The King regards him with solicitude, Albany loohs apart with great satisfaction. Tumult, noise of arms, sound of horn, etc., have become louder. The scene begins to darken.^ Curtain 80 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Other Verses of Song With wine and song, the whole night long, To fill with noise and laughter, We'll take full toll from the merry bowl, And the de'il take what comes after. Some da}'^, 'tis said, we shall all be dead. But out on the dire misgiving ! 'Tis an answer quite, that at least to-night, We are all very much a-living ! '^a ^jrtC- -vvvt u^ oH^ilZ. ' ^-^ f'^'^^i ii^XUt — ^ W 1 ^ by * >>^ — )r ' — j^ — t / ■ ]^ J ^1 I KKrUi u iX.fX iji 4/eVl^'^ -*-» Ca^^ ^-^^ ^jKm^ ^^-"^ ^ ^x>/\jt awi' 't*'*^ cvux^ -fe< d'^oC viaui g^^iAj^uri'Xii i,i,uK/'-f^t/^'^f^-''''i 81 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ACT III Scene. — Courtyard of The Thistle Tavern, sur- rounded by the hostelry from hack in irregu- lar semicircle. Large door L. 3. E., with a couple of steps leading to it. Stained glass window R. C, with designs of thistles. Door near ground R. C. E. Walls appear roughly patched here and there. Stone roof with tower L. C, and narrow windows. Tall chimneys, etc. Tree L. 3. E., with a sign of a thistle therefrom. Archway from R. 1. E. to R. 2. E. Shrubs, etc. Before rise of curtain Chorus heard singing " Bold and True,^' which continues at rise, from tavern. Time. — Evening. Lights from windows. Moon- light effects. Discovered. — The Duke of Albany, at L. C, Sir John Ramorny approaching him, salut- ing. Clapping of hands, clinking of cups, hursts of laughter, shouting and singing heard at intervals during the following, from tavern. Albany [^Cautiously, after returning salute.^ And how sits the wind yonder.^ 82 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John All is blowing the way Your Grace most devot- edly can wish. Rothsay is nigh seas-over with wine, carousing among our friends and utterly oblivious of his commission which Your Grace caused His Majesty to sign, anent taking posses- sion of St. Andrew. Albany 'Tis well. The plans that we have laid for years are ripe, and must bear fruit this very day. His feeble Majesty suspects nothing; he is coming hither attended only by our ally of Douglas ; since I've expounded that 'twere unfit for others to wit- ness the Prince among his lewd companions. See to it that Rothsay is kept to his cups meantime. Sir John The task will not be arduous, since the Prince is now as drunk as any doughty lord, ... I knew not, withal, why Your Grace deemed it of moment to have the wife of Rothsay apprised of his whereabouts .'' Albany So that the daughter of Douglas might behold him in his present state, and not make efforts in his behalf after we succeed in obtaining an order to attach the Prince. 83 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John Your Grace is aware that the King is o'erfond of Rothsay, and may refuse to grant this order despite all. Albany In that event, there is naught left but open force. The King goes from here to my castle, where he will be at our mercy, and if he do not place Rothsay under my care this very day, we must put an end to his existence and seize the crown. Would that we could with as much ease dispatch the Prince. The young devil lacks not many trusty blades that are but too ready to flash forth at his mere nod. Sir John Nary a one of his followers remains proof 'gainst the goodly wine with which they have been so liberally plied at Your Highness's expense. Albany Yet 'tis better to be over-cautious than not enough. Sir John Advice is easier given than taken. I warrant Your Grace gave no thought of being cautious when you writ the scroll confiding your plans to the Earl of March. 84 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany \^Uneasily.'\ There you have touched the mainspring that drives me to my present course. If I do not gain supreme rank at once, I must stand trial for trea- son. My very head is at stake. We are forced to risk all now. Art sure at least thy men may be relied upon? Sir John Most certain, an' it please Your Highness. They'd follow me to the very gates of hell in Your Grace's services, if they but smell wine and gold in the van. Albany Neither thou nor they shall have cause to regret their lo3'alty to me. Here, distribute this purse among the men. [Handing purse.^ If we succeed this day, thy reward shall be most royal. Sir John We will see to it that Rothsay does not stand long 'twixt Your Highness and the crown. Albany Hush ! I hear some one approaching. Return thou to the princely fool, and when the time comes render all possible aid to McLewis, who has our interest at heart. 85 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John [Bowing.^ Always at Your Grace's command. [Exit R. U' ^O \j^o'ise increases as he opens door and is greeted by his companions. '\ [Some of them are singing the chorus of " Bluebells of Scotland."^ [Albany shakes his head maliciously to- ward the inn, watching the Prince.] [King and Douglas enter R. ^. E. Al- bany turns and advances toward the King, bowing very low.^ King [After acknowledging his salute.'\ Is this the rendezvous, Albany? Albany Aye, my most gi'aclous liege, 'tis here Scot- land's Prince brews Scotland's ruin. Here it is he wastes his present usefulness and future welfare for gamesters, doxies, cut-throats, and the like, not giving a single thought to Your Majesty's express command regarding St. An- drew. 86 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Douglas A rare husband have we chosen for my daugh- ter. Far better she had ne'er been born than become the wife of this Prince of profligates. [Ramorny ovens rc'indow R. C] Ramorny We need air, ray masters. [Then retreats. Upon window being opened the Prince is seen sitting near table, drinking, etc., with a Glee Woman on his side, who sings the air of " Bhie- bells of Scotland." The Laird of Glen- cove, Peter, Bonthune, Errol, Oli- PHANT and others are near by. The Prince and his companions join in the chorus, which ends in applause, laugh- ter, etc., to the dismay of King, Doug- las, and apparently greater dismay of Albany.] Prince Well done, Madge! Here's a kiss for thy song. [^Laughter, etc., as Prince is seen kissing Madge. Clinking of cups, laughing, talking, etc.'\ 87 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Peter \_Brings out the dice.l \_To Prince.] My sweet Prince, what say you to a game of dice ? Prince I am ever for it, my lad, an' you but make the stakes high — \^Brings out a handful of gold coins {he plays recklessly). Peter plays with the deep interest of a professional gam- bler. As Prince and Peter throw dice during the following, noise subsides somewhat. Some of the company are taking an interest in the game.'\ King Oh, wretched son ! thou wilt yet break thy aged father's heart. Was it for this thy saintly mother lavished love — Albany [With a sigh.l Ah, my dearest brother, lamentation avails for naught. 'Tis resolute action that is required. King Have I not employed both calm entreaty and stern command, but all to no avail? 88 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Albany To succeed, Your Majesty needs must test the right remedy ; the readiest way to cure an ail- ment is to divorce it from its cause. The lewd companions of Rothsay are the foul cankers from which he suffers ; the Prince should therefore be removed from them. King I cannot, I cannot banish my own son. Albany Who, then, speaks of banishment, sire.'' I but advise some calm retreat, where, far removed from carousing, his shattered frame might court lusty health. King Oh, I cannot bear to part from Rothsay ! My heart-strings are firmly bound to him, despite all. Albany Real love, my liege, stoppeth not at administer- ing physic. Real love would save our dear Roth- say from himself. Douglas I, too, believe Your Majesty's interference most essential to the welfare of the Prince and my daughter, who hath but yesterday importuned me 89 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE for leave to return to our household. It concerns the honor of both houses that Your Majesty hearken to the wise counsel of my Lord of Al- bany. Prince Faith, there is but little diversion in playing a losing game. Here's for a last throw. [^Business of throwing dice, then several voices call out " Lost, lost again."^ A murrain seize these dice ! I can't win a single throw with them. Methink I'll play no more. ^Without ill-humor, rising.'] Peter [Also rising.] That is unfair, Prince. Laird of Glencove \_Drunk and angry off C] ^ Who dares say our m-most fair Prince is un- fair ? Several, Voices Out upon him ! Down with him ! Draw ! Kill ! Strike! Kill!!! [Drawing of swords, hubbub, etc. The King starts toward tavern.] Albany [Detaining him.] Nay, nay, sire, not a step that way. 90 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [Heard above din.'\ Back ! Back ! Forbear, I say ! [Drarcing his sword in defence of Peter.] Fools ! would ye cut each other's throats ? Put up your weapons — let him be. Come, come, my hearties, let us rather discuss another runlet of wine. There's more sport in being waylaid by good liquor. Here, mine host, flagons of your best for all this good company. [General applause. Ramorny calls out, " Noble Prince "; Bonthune, " Gener- ous Prince." Wine is served quickly by Host and Assistants. Clinking of cups, drinking, etc., some extending cup to Prince in greeting before they drink. Laughter, etc.'\ Albany [Low to King.] Oh, will not Your Majesty deign to listen to my advice ere it is too late? King Yea, we will think upon it. Would I could find some other course. [Sighs dee ply. '\ 91 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Peince [^DrinJcs his cup with one draught and sets it down with a reckless laugh. ^ And now who is for dancing in the open? Several Voices All! All! We'll dance — we'll dance till morn. Albany [To King.] Let us away, my liege, the rabble will soon be upon us — when I would not be answerable for Your Majesty's life. King [In deep dejection as he crosses i?.] Oh, my poor, misguided boy ! [They exeunt R. 2. E.] [Door R. 4-' E. is flung open; a merry crowd of soldiers, ruffians, pages, cour- tiers, highlanders and minstrels, accom- panied by Glee Women, etc., enter nois- ily from R. 4- E., laughing, etc., with the Pkince, Sir John, and the Laird OF Glencove at their head. The Laird OF Glencove is very drunk.'] 92 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince {^Speaking as he enters.^ Here, my worthy landlord, pass the cup once more, ere we join in the dance. \^The Landlord and his Assistants fit up cups, etc.'\ \^As Prince's cup is filled up.^ To the brim, to the brim, mine host. Now, drink, lads, drink heartily ; 'tis sparkling wine that annuls all care. [^Murmurs of approval, talking, etc., as the cups are being filled. Some of the men snatch kisses from their female companions, others make love, etc.^ Sir John My masters, let us pledge the Duke of Rothsay, the Prince of good fellows, who reigns within our hearts. All \_With exception of Prince.] l^Noisilij extending their cups to Prince, and call out.'\ To the Prince of Good Fellows! [Thcij drink.] 93 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [RecklesslTj-l And I will drink to my jolly companions, who fight like gods and live like beasts. [Drink's, then flings cup high from him.^ The Company To our jolly selves! [Drink, and try to imitate Prince in fling- ing away cup; spill wine over them- selves, etc.~\ Laird of Glencove Er — m-most gracious Prince, look ye there! M-most wondrous ! That chimney reels. Prince [Laughing. ~\ Nay, Sir Bacchus, good cheer hath made thy sight most queer. [General laughter. '\ And now, my hearties, to the dance. Secure your places. All To the dance, to the dance ! Secure places for the dance, etc. [The Company arrange themselves for dance; those that have no partners look on from hack.'\ 94 PRINCE AXD PROFLIGATE Prince Come, strike up, minstrels! Let folly reign supreme. \^A couple of minstrels strike up " The Blue Bonnet Over the Border."'\ Now, foot it merrily, merrily, my lads. l^All start to dance with spirit amidst laughter, screams, shouts, etc.^ \^As the dance is at its height, Marjory enters R. 2. E., attended by a Retainer of the Douglas. She stops short on per- ceiving Prince, clenches her hands, and stares at him intently.^ [Sir John and others who have perceived her, stop short.^ [The Prince, whose back was turned toward jNIarjory when she came in, con- tinues dancing. Upon turning around, comes face to face with her and stops, as if petrified. Marjory is hardly able to control her rage.~\ Prince [After slight pause, with an effort.'\ Friends, the dance is o'er ; prithee leave me a while. {The couples break up, grumbling low, etc.l 95 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Laird of Glencove [Low, to Sir John.] By Bacchus, 'tis a shame to mar our m-most innocent sport in this way. Sir John [In whisper.'] I would not be in Rothsay's sandals for an earldom. [The others nudge each other, some are awe-struck, one of the girls suppresses a giggle, etc., as they exeunt R. 3. £.] Prince [As soon as they are left alone, stammers with forced lightness of manner.] Thy presence here is a most — agreeable sur- prise. Marjory Wretch, miserable fool ! How canst thou feast and make merry while a plot's on foot to wrest from thee thy birthright, aye, thy very life? Prince My " gentle " wife, thou hast assuredly been misinformed. I know of no plot against my her- itage or life. 96 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory To be sure thou knowst of naught that might be of service to thee. 'Tis through thy criminal ignorance, through thy heinous folly, that thou art giving most vantage to Albany. Oh, my un- lucky fate, to be mated with a weak clown, a crea- ture who is even bereft of the sense of self-pres- ervation ! Prince My dear Marjory, pray recall the time and place where we are. Marjory Talk not to me of place or time. My sorrow and disgrace is known broadcast. Pitiful craven, to allow thy direst enemy to take thy royal place while thou art dawdling 'midst the kingdom's very scum. Prince jNIarjory, I beg thee again to remember that it fits not for the wife of the Prince of Scotland to brawl in public. Marjory What boots it that thou art born a prince, if all thy aims in life are as base as those of the meanest — 97 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince l^Breaks in, speaking low.^ Hark you, dame, I tell thee thy rancorous tongue offends our dignity. Marjory And darest thou speak of dignity — thou who hast fallen so low, who doth joyfully waddle in the gutter amidst lascivious paramours — whose dis- graceful orgies are a byword — Prince [^Breaks in with repressed emotion.'\ Have done, have done, I say ! The entire world needs not know thy wretched temper. Thy un- reasonable nagging at me, has driven me to give thee reason to complain. 'Tis altercations such as these that have made a hell of home for me, from whence I fled as from a pestilence. Marjory [7n rage.^ Nay, to thy own dissolute life, and naught else, is due all this wretchedness. Since our unfortu- nate nuptial day thou hast brought naught but sorrow and shame upon one whom thou hast prom- ised to love and cherish. Oh, when I think of all 98 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE those woeful days, I could kill thee! Thou licen- tious drunkard! Thou — \_Raises her hand as if to strike him.^ Prince [Grasping her hand.'\ Hold! [Sternly brings her hand down in spite of her.'\ Marjory [Screams out in pain.^ Ah — coward ! Darest thou lift thy hand 'gainst thy wife? Prince Take heed you drive me not too far ! Hence — home — home, I say ! Marjory [In rage and defiance. '\ Never ! I shall never enter thy household again ! Oh, thou shalt no longer lord it over me! This very day do I return to the house of my father. He shall hear of this. [Exits in passion R. 3. E., followed by DouLAs's Retainer.'] [Prince stares after her for a moment, then turns away with a deep groan.] [Sir John reenters R. 3. E., with a cup of wine.] 99 LOFC. PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John [Advances to the Prince, proffering cup to him.^ Beseech you, my good Prince, let all unpleas- antness be drowned in the flowing bowl. [Prince shakes his head in the negative and motions cup aside, sighing deep- ly, then looks away from Ramorny, thoughtfully. Ramorny, with solici- tude, again proffers cup. Prince takes it distractedly, to the great satisfaction of Ramorny, and raises it instinctively to his mouth, but recalls himself as it touches his lips and dashes it from him.'\ Prince Nay, by St. Andrew, I'll drink no more ! Sir John That was ill done, my Prince. To spoil good liquor is but folly. Do, pray, dispatch thy ill humor from whence it came. Our revels must not be marred on account of thy termagant of a wife. Prince Hold thy peace, fool, and teach thy tongue a better language when thou art speaking of my wife — thy lady. 100 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir Johx I cry thee mercy, my noble Prince; I knew not thou were so over-scrupulous about thy " gentle '* spouse. [Elizabeth enters R. 2. E., masked, at- tended hy a servant {man), who stops at entrance.'l Elizabeth [Advances, speaking low and hesitatingly. 1 I would fain hold discourse with the Prince. Prince [^Starts upon hearing her voice, then turns toward Sir John.] Pray leave us, Ramorny. [Sir John hows and exits R. 4- E.^ Prince [Advancing toward her.'\ Elizabeth! Thou here? Elizabeth [Removing her mask.'\ Aye, the unfortunate Elizabeth of Dunbar. 101 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prixce Ah, I never thought I would again behold thy dear face, nor that I would have the chance to beg forgiveness of thee. Elizabeth Nay, Prince, I've learned since, that he who now seeks thy ruin cast a blight upon our happi- ness then. But I would not recall the past at this time, when thy future is in imminent peril. My father hath been importuned by Albany to join against thee, but he would none of it, though they argued the great wrong done to us. There are foul designs on foot against Your Royal High- ness. They seek to usurp thy princely birthright. Thy very life is at stake. Oh, you must flee from here! Prince What! Shall the Prince of Scotland flee from Scotland's kingdom? Yield my place to Albany.'^ No ; by mine honor, I will not budge a foot — not for a thousand plots. Elizabeth Alas I Thou knowest not how mighty the Duke hath become and how weak thou art. Thy wild life hath turned all honest men 'gainst thee, while thine own companions are not to be relied upon. 102 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE I have learnt that they are ready to betray thee for a few paltry gold pieces. Ah, my Prince! I am so deeply disappointed in thee. To think that the idol of my affections hath turned out such miserable clay ! Prince Only this was wanting to complete my misery. And yet, do I not deserve thy reproaches? Yea, I have been weak, cowardly. I should not have permitted them to tear from me the one being Avhom I loved more than life, who might have made anything worthy of me! Ah, Elizabeth, if thou couldst behold my lacerated heart ! Elizabeth Desist — desist from opening those old wounds. We must learn to forget bygone grief. Prince Forget? Forget our great love? That soli- tary ray of pure sunshine in my cloudy existence? Forget the bitter agony of our parting? Nay, there are things one cannot forget. Elizabeth How comes it then, my Prince, if the memory of that noble love be so strong in thee, that thou couldst be led into such ignoble ways? 103 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince Elizabeth, after they tore thee from my heart, all my hopes were blighted, my cup of. misery overreached the brim. I sought some outlet for my great suffering. First, I strove to stifle my agony in work. 'Twas then my fiendish uncle choked all my good intents. He " relieved " me of all my offices, shut every door of honor 'gainst me, and left me like a sea-tossed mariner drifting to any rock or shoal, and thus I came upon this roystering life — Elizabeth But is folly, brawling and debauchery a life for a prince? Ah, dost thou surmise the pain, the suffering thy conduct hath caused to — thy friends ? Prince Oh, conscience tells me every moment that my mode of existence is degrading — ruthless remorse is ever gnawing at my heart, yet overwhelming circumstances dominate my reason and still drive me on the way of evil. Having been denied real happiness, the baser part of my nature forces me to grasp at the empty shadow of it. Ah, there is naught — naught else left for me. 104 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth Nay, nay, Prince, ask me not to entertain so base an opinion of Your Highness. I cannot be- lieve that my ideal of strength could thus become the weak slave of circumstances. He whom I loved was a man, strong in will, not to be driven and shipwrecked by the first adverse wind of for- tune. Bethink thee, Prince, thy own misdeeds are destroying thee. Thou hast complained but now that the doors of honor are shut 'gainst thee, and yet here confronts thee a battle in which honor and duty bid thee engage forthwith. 'Tis the battle 'twixt right and wrong which Is striving for mastery within thy breast. Deign but to en- list with a will in the cause of right, and thou must, thou shalt subdue the foul monster wrong who would destroy thee. Prince I fear it is now too late to strive. I fear I have not the will to turn from the easy, downward course. Oh, Pm utterly unworthy of thy inter- est. There seems naught left for me but this shameful mode of existence — this vain attempt to drown my overwhelming cares. Elizabeth Drown cares ? Drown reason ! Drown man- hood! Drown every hope of those who love thee 105 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE and would fain have thee worthy of thy high es- tate. Prince \_Advancing nearer toward her.'\ Those who love me? Ah, Elizabeth, if there were one who loved me, one whom I loved, in the place of her whom evil fortune sent to share my name — Elizabeth [Drawing away from him.^ Stay ! She is thy wife, thy suffering wife, who has tasted the deep humiliation of thy most shame- ful disregard. Prince Ah, bitter are thy words, Elizabeth. Elizabeth Bitter, yet wholesome, is the draught which cures. Oh, canst thou not perceive that thou art doomed unless thou mendest thy ways on the in- stant? The quicksands of treachery are ready to open at thy feet at any moment — here, read this scroll writ to my father in the Duke's own hand. Prince [Takes scroll and begins to peruse it."] Good Heavens ! " Depose the King — imprison the Prince." Ramorny would deliver me into their 106 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE hands ? Oh, what base treachery ! This — this must awaken me. Aye, I will subdue my turbu- lent nature this very day ; nay, this very hour will I put my feet upon the rock and crush their foul plot. Elizabeth Ah, there spoke the heir of Bruce, the Prince whom I once loved. Do thou but hold to thy good resolutions and I will reckon the pain suffered in thy behalf as the greatest of blessings. Prince Yet must I place myself still further in thy debt. Thou above all others hast the power to reconcile thy worthy father to our cause ; bid him recollect that Albany alone was guilty of all the wrong done to your house. Urge him in the name of all that is noble to gather his retainers and come to the aid of his country and king in this hour of need. Elizabeth I will — I go seek my father forthwith, for Scot- land — for Scotland be all our endeavor — and so, farewell, my Prince. 107 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince l^SpeaMng "with feeling, as he crosses with her R.] Farewell, my good angel, I shall yet be worthy of thy — friendship. The pleasure-seeking Prince is no more; henceforth my pleasure shall consist of duty, my course be as high as lofty resolve can make. [^Exeunt Prince and Elizabeth R. 2. E., followed by attending Servant. '\ [McLewis enters at L. 3. E., at the head of the Brandane Guards. He gives the word of command to his men to " halt," •which they obey; then:'\ McLewis [To NiGL, one of the soldiers who has stepped forward from ranks.l Hasten to inform Sir John of my presence here, and then take thy post in the tower where thou couldst behold all that transpires, so thou mayest give the signal at the earliest moment. [NiGL salutes and exits R. ^. E. {He has an unlighted torch in hand.) McLewis looks around cautiously, then advances toward window R. C. and looks in; Sir John enters quickly R. 4- E.'\ 108 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE Ah, Sir John ! I'm to report to you that the King hath signed the warrant, banishing the Prince from court. Sir John Most welcome news! How came it about? McLewis Mj Lord of Albany encountered Rothsay's spouse as she returned from hither and urged her to go before the King and complain 'gainst the Prince, who, it seems, raised his hand to her in public. And thus was His Royal Highness placed under restraint of Albany. I have stationed a man to signal to the Duke, should we fail to ap- prehend the Prince. If we succeed, then must we attend the Prince to Faulkland Castle forthwith. Sir John Once he is safely in the castle, he will return no more. [Goes up R. C. and calls ojf.^ Here, my men, quick — this way ! [Sir John's followers enter eagerly R. C. E. and crowd around him-l Sir John The time for action hath arrived. The Prince must be taken into custody this very hour. Look to your steel, my lads ; there may be warm work 109 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE before us. The Duke of Albany bade me promise a hundred marks to every man who this day per- forms his duty. Peter Huzzah for the noble Duke! [The others join in the cheer. ^ [Laird of Glencove enters unsteadily R. Jf.. E., followed hy rest of company. '[ Laird of Glencove My unworthy Sir John, what in the devil's name is — the — deviltry thou art brewing now.'' Sir John [After thinking for a moment.^ Comrades, the King hath ordered the banish- ment of the Prince from court. He is to be con- veyed under guard to Faulkland Castle. Laird of Glencove What! Banish our Prince? Wrest from us the m-most potent spirit of our revelry? Just let 'em try ! Ha, ha, ha ! Sir John Indeed, 'tis no laughing matter, my lord ; an halter awaits all those who resist the King's or- ders. 'Tis best to be cautious, friends. The King 110 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE means no harm to Rothsaj. Who arc we, to med- dle with or gainsay His Majesty's behests? Per- force, 'twere best for us to let the law take its course, as law-abiding subjects. Laird of Glencove [Defiantlij.l Who is a law-abiding subject? I am at m-most a friend of Rothsay, no more — no less. What, my Hearts of Gold, shall we stand by and see them take from us the Prince of Good Fellows? He who ne'er flinched, and who invariably stood by us? Several Men and All Women No ! Never ! Never ! Host Indeed we sha'n't give up our noble Prince, whose bread we have eaten and whose wine we have drunk; he who never reckoned the costs and always footed a reckoning without a murmur. Why, he hath done good service to every man of us, God bless him ! [^Murmurs of approval, cries of " Xo, we sha'n't give him up! " " Noble Prince! " " Generous Prince! " etc., from all ex- cept Ramorny and his followers, who adjust their swords with determination, etc-l [Prince enters inquiring R. 2. E.^ Ill PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [Ow perceiving McLewis and Guard.^ Ah, McLewIs, I shall have orders for the arrest of divers traitors presently. McLewis Your pardon, Prince, but Fve ere now been ordered to convey Your Highness to Faulkland Castle. Prince Ordered by whom? McLewis \^Showing parchment with seal, etc.^ The King, who has entrusted Your Highness to the care of your loving uncle. Prince My " loving " uncle ! And what if I choose not to be placed under his wardship .f* McLewis Then would it grieve us much to be compelled to employ force against Your Royal Highness. Prince So thou, too, art privy to this plot, McLewis? I will seek the King on the instant. [/« about to cross 72.] 112 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE McLewis Stay ! My men will not permit you to take a step. 'Tis His Majesty's behest that thou be con- veyed without delay to Faulkland Castle, there- fore must I request Your Highness to accompany my men forthwith. Prince {Drawing his szcord.^ Nay, thou art too fast, McLewis. [Raising his sxcord.^ To me, all who are loyal ! Laird of Glencove Come, let us form around our Prince and repel this foul plot. {^Several men advance, drawing their swords, murmuring, " Aye, for the Prince. We will stand by thee against hell."] McLewis I charge ye all, on your allegiance to the crown, not to dare interfere with the execution of my duty. Laird of Glencove We'll teach thee thy duty, knave! l^Then to Sir John.] Why dost not stand with thy Prince, Sir John.'' 113 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John The orders of the King are supreme. [Sir John's followers murmur in assent as they draw their swords and place them- selves beside the Brandane Guard. Sev- eral women murmur, " Ah, for shame! 'Tis a shame! "] McLewis \_To his men, raising his sword.^ Charge ! Charge upon them ! [^The Guard hesitate, look at each other uneasily, and do not advance.^ An Old Brandane Guard Hoot, Captain ! We cou'd na lower our hal- berds 'gainst our bonnie Prince. McLewis [7w rage.'] Ah ! cowards ! traitors ! [The Guard murmur angrily.] Prince Methinks, Sir John, thou art playing on the losing side this day. — Come, my men, to the King ! 114 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE His Followers To the King! The King! [^Brandish their swords, etc. They are about to cross R. when Ramorny ad- vances.^ Sir John Tarry a moment, Prince. Knowst thou where His Majesty sojourns now? [Takes the warrant from McLewis, show- ing it to Prince, and reads from it.^ " Given at the Castle of Albany " — \^Aloud, with suppressed vehemence.^ The King is there, beset by desperate men ; thy shrewd uncle provided 'gainst the miscarriage of his plans. They are e'en now watching for a sig- nal from us. At the first tidings of our failure, thy father shall be mercilessly slain. Prince Oh, monstrous villainy ! Sir John Perforce Albany must do It, to save his own head; and unless thou leavest this place under our escort forthwith, Scotland's King must welter in his blood this very hour. 115 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince Knowest thou not, thou traitorous fool, that if, Heaven forfend! my royal father should be put to death, then I would become King, and be free to deal as they deserve with the murderers of my beloved sire? Laird of Glencqve Aye, we will crown thee forthwith. Hail to our future King! Prince's Followers Hail ! Hail to our future King ! \^Brandish their swords, etc.^ [The Prince draxvs himself up for a mo- ment, as if inspired with lofty thoughts of becoming king, hut his features change as if recalling the plight of his father, and he shakes his head in the negative in an effort to drive those thoughts from him.^ Sir John [TF^o has been watching the Prince keenly.^ Will the pleasure of wreaking vengeance on us repay for thy aged father's life? [Indicates tower L. C, where a light ap- pears during the following at lower windows. '\ 116 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Behold ! there is our man e'en now ascending to give the signal to Albany. The moment yon- der tower is lit up, the King's life shall be extin- guished. Prince [TF^o has undergone a great struggle of feeling during the foregoing.'\ No, no, no ! I could not — I would not mount the throne over the bleeding corpse of my sire. \Throws down his sword.^ There — I — yield. Lead on to prison or death. [Advances toward Sir John's followers, to the dismay of the Laird of Glencove and other followers of Prince, and con- sternation of several women, and the satisfaction of McLewis, Sir John, and his followers.'] Curtain 117 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ACT IV Scene. — A dungeon in Faulkland Castle. Floor paved with flagstone. Heavy iron door C. hack, leading to stairway. A small oblong window R. 3. E., grated with cross bars; the great thickness of the wall is indicated by the bay of zmndow. Two partly broken stools near heavy table L. C. Pallet of straw R. C. At R. Jj.. E., an instrument of torture. Time. — Late in the afternoon. The sunshine which gleams in through window furnishes the light for the room. The rays of the sun are indicated across the floor, and move slowly with the close of day. Discovered. — Rothsay at window, his face against the grating. A great change -has come over him; he looks haggard, pale, and sickly, hair disheveled, clothes he wore in prior act somewhat torn. Prince [After slight pause, in despair.^ No help ! No sign of help ! Cut off from all this beautiful world. [Turns away and goes toward table during the f allowing. '\ 118 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE So this is to be my tomb ! — immured alive — starving to death. Ah! would that death might soon obliterate my suffering. And must I then perish? And to die after I have learnt how to live ! Oh, that reason should come too late ! Yea, my sins have overtaken me. No — no, I have not deserved so much misery — I have not deserved it. [^Sink's near table, burying his face in his hands. Presently the noise of unbar- ring of bolts, clinking of chains, foot- steps, etc., heard from back. Prince starts, and listens intently.^ Hark! Footsteps? They approach nearer — this way ! Is it to end my sorrow, or this miser- able existence? [Door opens C. D. F., disclosing stairway, upon which Sir John Ramorny appears with torch in hand, followed by Bon- THUNE, Peter, and Marjory in male attire. She carries a basket of wine, victuals, and dishes, which she places on table during following.^ Sir John Incoming down the stairs.'\ Give you good den, Rothsay. 119 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince \_Starts forward, clenching his hands in rage.~\ What? Thou— thou here? Ramorny Gently, my Prince, thou art over-zealous to embrace an old friend. [Peter and Bonthune laugh.'\ Prince Fiend ! Hast come hither to complete thy handiwork? Sir John Nay, you wrong me, my dear Prince. I came but to usher into thy service this youth, who'll attend upon thee. I also brought hither a savory haunch of deer, as well as some rare Gascon wine, so we may pass this night in revelry as of yore. Prince Is this, then, to be my last supper? Comes my death too slowly to suit thy fiendish purposes, and thou art resolved to season my food with poison? 120 PRIXCE AXD PROFLIGATE Ramorxy [With an air of deep injury. 1 Nay, Prince, I'm truly sorry that thy thoughts should be poisoned 'gainst mc. To reassure thee, I will myself partake of each and every morsel of food ere Your Highness touches any of it. [Advances, takes a flagon of wine and fills tzco cups, after handing torch to Bon- THUNE.] Let us begin with this rare Gascon wine. I warrant 'tis many a day since thou hast tasted aught so choice. [Taking up a cup himself and handing the second to the Prince.] Come, pledge me. [RoTHSAY, tvho has at first stretched out his hand eagerly to take cup, stops short, as he recalls himself.^ RoTHSAY [With a resolute effort.'] No, I will not drink with thee. Ramorky Where are thy manners, Rothsay? Dost refuse to pledge a friend? Prince Enough of this. We know each other. 121 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Ramorny I see you still bear me ill will for the small part I was compelled to play in the clipping of thy wings. Yet, Prince, 'tis well known that the cage which confines the bird also wards off the fangs of the cat. Both my dread Lord of Albany and thy awful spouse have fangs of deadliest type. \^Movement on the part of Marjory.] But come, my Prince, the food waxes cold, and you needs must be hungry. Fall to — let's attack the viands. [^Sits on one of the stools and places other for ROTHSAY.] Prince Not until I know the real purpose of thy pres- ence here. Ramorny Ah, you were not wont to be so over-scrupulous in the past ; but since you'll have it so, I will e'en inform thee that I came hither to do thee a great service. Prince How.'' By putting an end to my miserable"^ life? Ramorny Nay, nay, my purpose is to prolong thy exist- ence, and to make it a continuous round of pleas- 122 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ure. Noble Prince, would it not please thee well to sail for fair Flanders, and there pass the bal- ance of thy days in eating, drinking, and making merry? Prince Be plain, man. What new villainy hast thou devised to practice on me? Ramorny Prince, I bear thee naught but good will and happiness at this moment. If, after the demise of thy royal father, thou shouldst agree to abdi- cate the crown to my Lord of Albany, the Duke will solemnly bind himself to give thee five thou- sand angels each year, until the end of thy days, more than is needed to supply all thy cumulative wants. The burdens of state are weighed down with care ; the crown is full of thorns ; a king, moreover, must live in loneliness apart from the rest of mankind, unless indeed he be provided, by the Fates with a " wife " to console him. [A movement on the part of ^Iarjory.] Now thou hast it in thy power to leave all these cares behind, together with thy " gentle " spouse, and enjoy peace and plenty until thy closing hour. Here's the compact all ready drawn up. [Hands parchment to him.l 123 PRIXCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince What ! Wouldst have me yield the crown to Albany? Sell my princely birthright for a mess of pottage? [^Crumpling up parchment and throwing it away.'\ No, no ! I shall live and die a Prince. Ramorny {^Rising. '\ That was ill done, Rothsay ; dost forget thou art completely in our power? [Ficli's up parchment. The blast of a horn is heard from without. Ramorny starts zip, listens for a moment.'] The Seneschal of the castle warns me that some one seeks admittance at the gate. [^To Prince.] Pray, pardon me the while till I discover the meaning hereof. ^To his men.^ Follow me. l^All, with exception of Marjory, exeunt C. D. F.] [^The noise of holts being placed in posi- tion, etc.] 124 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory [After assuring herself that they are alone, approaches Prixce, speaking xvith compassion.^ Rothsay, thou needst have no fear to taste of this food ; 'twas with these hands prepared. Prince [In great surprise.'\ Marjor\'! How came you hither? Marjory The daughter of March chanced to be by the road as thou wert conveyed to Faulkland Castle, and apprised me of how they maltreated thee when they wrested from thy person a certain scroll im- plicating the Duke of Albany, so I set out in- stantly — and after many efforts gained access to thee through the Seneschal, whom I bribed. God bear me witness, I knew not where their vile plot was leading when I complained to the King of thine ill-usage. Prince So they made an instrument of thee wherewith to encompass my ruin. And yet hast thou not good cause to complain 'gainst me? Oh, I have wronged thee much ! 125 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory \^Who has been afraid that Prince bears resentment against her, now places her arms around him with great love and tenderness.^ Nay, nay, my beloved husband, 'tis I — 'tis I — should crave forgiveness from thee. Ah, would they had torn my tongue from its socket ere I was egged on to complain to thy father. Oh, 'tis my evil tongue that has undone us both — How- ever, we must not stand here idly prattling while thou dost starve. {^Bringing food over to him.^ Do partake of the food. Prince ^Beginning to eat ravenously.^ In sooth — I — have — tasted — naught these two days. Marjory My poor, afflicted lord ! soon may we feast again at our own royal table. {^Helping him to food.'] The daughter of March vouchsafed to acquaint the King of thy sad plight, but I fear me she has proven false, else His Majesty hath sent forces hither to succor thee by this time. 126 PRINCE AXD PROFLIGATE Prixce Nay, Elizabeth of Dunbar could ne'er be false to me. Some unforeseen impediment must have delayed her. On her loyalty I could stake my life. Makjory [W^if^ suppressed anger. '\ Ah, I perceive thou still bearest love for that woman ! ^Repressing herself.~\ But I will not quarrel with thee this day. Time will show who is truly loyal to thee. Ah, if we can only keep that villain Ramorny from doing thee harm for a brief period, I will myself fetch forces hither to set thee free. \^Bolts are heard to unbar.'] Prince Sh ! They return ! [INIarjory resumes her position of indif- ference near table as Ramorny, Bon- THUNE, Ritchie, Peter, Oliphant and Errol re-enter C. D. F.] Ramorny [Speaking as Tie comes forward.] Ah, I rejoice to behold thine altered mind in that thou art partaking of my hospitality. May 127 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE I also be assured that thou hast thought better of it, and will sign the covenant with Albany. Prince I am determined not to barter away my princely state for any corrupting substitute. Ramorny I deplore to hear thy ill-advised resolution. In sooth, Prince, I would fain spare thee if I could safely do so. Answer me truly, what think you deserved the man who hath been instrumental in thy forcible imprisonment here.-* Prince He well deserves a hanging from the highest tower of the castle. Ramorny He! he! My head never aspired to so lofty a place. You perceive, Rothsay, 'tis thy life 'gainst mine now. Should you sign this piece of parch- ment — [Indicating it.'\ — we could with ease escape to Flanders on a ship hired for that purpose, and merrily pass our days on the gold supplied us by thine loving uncle. Should you decline, I'm ordered by the Duke to wring thy signature by force from thee. If, by 128 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE chance, thou shouldst expire under our hands, the favor of my Lord of Albany is still assured us, as he cannot forget the emissaries that helped him to the throne. Prince Insolent villain ! Dost think to affright me with thy idle threats? Ramorny Those threats are far from idle, as thou shalt soon discover. [To his men.^ My worthy lads, bring forward yonder instru- ment. [^His men obey the order. ^ Perchance Your Highness will be more compli- ant when the screws are plied upon thy princely joints. Prince Thou wilt not — thou darest not employ that instrument of torture on Scotland's Prince. Ramorny I'm forced to it by thine own obstinacy. The Duke must be obeyed. Yet will I take it upon myself to postpone this ordeal for thee, if thou wilt indite a letter to the King, assuring him of thy present safety and comfort. 129 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince Ah ! so it hath reached thine ears that the King hath become restless as to my well-being? Ramorny E'en so, I've been informed of it by the Duke's messenger, that my Lord of Albany has much trouble in keeping the King in ignorance of our plans. We are therefore forced to employ greater dispatch. How now, wilt sign this compact, or indite a letter to the King.'* Prince What a fool would I be to allay any anxiety the King has for my welfare. Ramoeny Since thou wilt not be persuaded, there is naught left but a trial of force. [To his men.^ Secure him ! l^The men advance to execute the order, but are at a loss how to begin.^ ROTHSAY [Drawirig back\'\ These men will not lay hands upon their Prince. [^The men stop, hesitating.^ 130 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Sir John Prince? Quotha, thou art naught but a help- less prisoner, and will do well to remember that 'tis folly for one unarmed man to resist an armed score. ROTHSAY Thinkest thou the heir of Bruce will yield calmly to a recreant like thee? No, not if thou had all the caitiffs in the kingdom at thy beck and call. Ramorny Thy brave words will not avail thee here. \_To his men-l Onward! onward! Lads, seize him and bind him. Peter {^Advancing. 1 Come, sir ! Come ! Resign thyself ! [The others also advance upon Aim.] Prince Back ! Stand off, ingrates ! Back, I say ! [il/^w stop short.'\ Ramorny [To his men.~\ Remember, friends, if we fail to force compli- ance, we ourselves must die. 131 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Peter Aye, 'tis his life 'gainst ours. Come, let us make an end of it. The Men [Advancing upon /liw.] Aye, aye ! Come, let us end it ! l^They are about to close in with the Prince when Marjory, who has been restraining herself with difficulty during the last part of the foregoing, advances between them.'\ Marjory Stand off ! Forbear ! You shall do no harm to the Prince. Sir John Why, whom have we here? In faith, he is a woman, and a pretty one to boot. [IMarjory puts her cloak- about her, which has partly fallen off during the fore- going.] And so thou wouldst defend him from us. Fair mistress, thou shalt thyself need all the protec- tion thou canst muster presently. Meanwhile, thou hadst had better stand aside, and not meddle with us. 132 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory Nay, I shall not stir from my husband's side. Mercy, Sir John, have mercy! 'Tis I — Marjory, the daughter of Douglas — who entreats thee to spare the life of her lord. Ramorny Fair lady, I dare not disobey my Lord of Al- bany. Marjory But, my good Sir John, he was thy true com- panion, generous patron. [Sir John makes an impatient gesture, and turns half axcay.'l Nay, do let me plead with thee — Rothsay [Unable to restrain his feelings any longer, bursts forth.^ No ! By all the furies, no ! The wife of Scot- land's Prince shall not plead to this miserable Judas, this — base — ungrateful dog — Ramorny [Angrily.] Thou wilt find. Sir Prince, this dog hath sharp teeth. [To his men.] Remove her ! Put her aside ! 133 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Peter [^Advances to take hold of her.'\ Come, now, my Lady. ROTHSAY Forbear ! Venture not so much as approach the Duchess of Rothsay. She shall go hence at her own free will, as she came. \_To Marjory.] Wife, you but endanger my life here, and haply may be of service when at liberty. Go ! I beseech thee. Marjory lAfter a slight pause.'\ I will obey thee, my Lord. \_To Sir John.] Remember, he is thy lawful Prince, and direst punishment awaits all who injures as much as a hair of his royal head. — Fare thee well, husband. [^Embraces him, then tears herself away and exits upstairs C. D. F.] Ramorny [With a derisive chuckle.'] A very loving and dutiful spouse — ^but I war- rant she shall bear no tales until we can safely leave the country. Meanwhile I must bestow her securely. [Goes up as if to exit C. D. F.] 134 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [^Getting in his way at stairs.l Back! Suffer her to depart in peace. Ramorny Dost thou deem me a fool, Rothsay? Let me pass ! Come, come, give way ! [^Takes hold of Prince as if to put him aside.Jl Prince \_In rage disengages himself from Ramor- ny, and in so doing strikes him.^ Dastard! Dare not lay thy polluted hands on me. Ramorny l^With a cry of rage.^ Ah! for this you shall die. \^To his men.^ Bring him away from that door — If the lady escapes, we are lost. [The men advance upon Prince, murmur- ing angrily. '\ Prince [Throwing off Peter, who is about to close in with him.l^ Back, back, if you value your life ! [Thcji retreats up steps C. D. F.] 135 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Ramorny After him ! After him ! Peter [Who has reeled from blow during the foregoing, rushes up C. D. F.] He dies, he dies, for that ! [The other men follow, calling out, " Kill —kill him! "] Ramorny [At C. D. F., looking upstairs.l Onward ! onward ! Ah, lay hold of him ! Secure him ! Quick ! Now, down with him ! Strangle him if he continues to resist ! [Noise of struggle off C, followed by silence, then:'\ Marjory [Is heard to scream off C, then .'I Ah ! Cowards ! Assassins ! Oh, villainy ! vil- lainy ! Ramorny Bring him back ! Back, this way ! Keep that she-wolf from him ! 136 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory [Heard from without as they approach.'] Unhand me, foul murderers ! Let me go ! Oh ! [BoNTHUNE, Oliphant, and Errol enter, carrying the Prince between them. Peter and Ritchie enter with Marjory between them. All bear signs of the struggle which they have undergone.] Marjory [Weeping, etc., as they enter.] Oh, my lord, my husband! Murdered! Mur- dered ! Bonthune Curse him ! he hath torn out a handful of my hair. [They put Prince down on straw pal- ette.] Oliphant 'Tis a foul piece of work! Would that I had no hand in it. Ramorny Hold thy peace ! We must now make ready to depart the country forthwith. [Noise of approaching soldiers is heard from without R. C. during the fore- going, and now the blast of a horn is heard. All stop, listening in alarm.] 137 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Peter God 'a' mercy ! 'Tis the signal of Dunbar ! [Ramorny starts and clenches his fists. The other men begin to tremble.'\ Marjory Vengeance! Oh, vengeance for my Lord! Ramorny Silence, or the same measure shall be meted out to thee. Quick, men, remove the fetters from his feet. Lay him straight on the palette. Fortu- nately, all marks of violence are absent. We may escape yet. l^The men proceed to execute these orders, when loud knocking, cries, clashing of arms, etc., are heard off L.] Ramorny iLooking off from window, starts back m consternation.^ 'Sblood ! They assail our gate ! Men Oh, we are lost ! We are lost ! There is no escape ! \^Start trembling, wringing their hands, etc-l 138 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Ramokny \^Drawing his sword.'\ Quick! Look to your steel! We'll defend our- selves to the last ! This way ! \^Rushes up C. D. F., followed by Bon- THUNE, Errol, and Oliphant, who also draw swords.^ Peter [^To Marjory, whom he is holding.^ Come, come, lady, you must away with us. Marjory Nay, I will not, I shall not stir from here, though ye murder me as ye have my beloved hus- band. Ah, would ye did ! In charity, kill me, kill me too, for I cannot live without him. Peter I might have done Your Ladyship so much grace, if the Dunbar were not thundering at our gates. The dread Earl of Dunbar might mis- construe my charity to thee, and vent his ven- geance upon my innocent head. Therefore will I report thy mind to Sir John, who may do as he lists. [They let her go and exeunt rapidly C. D. F.] 139 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Marjory [Throwing herself down beside Prince.] Ah, Rothsay, my husband! \_Raising him in her arms.'] Dead ! Dead ! [Rothsay half opens his eyes.] Ah, he lives ! My beloved husband lives ! Rothsay [Very faintly.] I fear, Marjory, 'tis but — for a short while. Marjory Don't say that, my dearest husband ; you must not, you shall not die. The Dunbar and his men are at the gate. You shall soon be set free. [Noise from without R. (clashing of steel, knocking at gate, etc.) increases.] Rothsay [Trying to rise.] How.'' Dares that villain Ramorny oppose the mighty Earl of March.'' Marjory Pray be calm, do be calm, my Lord. [A loud crash is heard from without, fol- lowed by shouting.] Ah ! They have forced the gates ! We shall soon be delivered. 140 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE ROTHSAY Aje, soon will I be delivered from all earthly pain. Marjory Nay, Rothsay, live, live for thy wife, who loves thee far better than herself. Rothsay But I feel so weak — so weak! [^Falls back.'l Marjory My God, he is fainting ! Rothsay — my hus- band ! Oh, for a leech ! Rothsay l^Faintly, as he opens his eyes.l Marjory, 'tis of no avail — I am beyond — the good or evil — of a leech. Marjory Nay, nay ! You must — you shall live ! Prince Ah, comfort thee — wife ! Marjory Nay, I cannot. I can never know comfort more if thou dost not regain thy strength. 141 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Prince [His voice growing weaker J] Would that I could live on ! But my powers are waning fast, despite me. Oh ! [Catches at his palate and falls hack in a faint. 1 Marjory Help ! help ! My husband is dying ! Oh, Roth- say, my love — my lord — my life ! Oh, God ! it would be too cruel — too cruel ! [Throws herself near his body, sobbing.'\ [Elizabeth appears at C. D. F., attended by the Laird of Glencove.] [Murm2irs, clashing of arms, etc., heard faintly at a distance upon door being opened.^ Elizabeth [Speaking as they enter C. D. F.] Whence came that cry for help? Laird of Glencove This might be the dungeon of the Prince. Marjory Husband, husband! Do not — do not leave me to distraction ! Oh, I will not — I will not survive thee! 142 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Elizabeth [Starts back, choking; gasps for air, then, with a cry, throws herself down beside him-l Oh, Prince ! INIy Prince ! ROTHSAY [Opening his eyes, stares at her for a moment, then a smile overspreads his features.^ Is — this — real? Ehzabeth by my side? [Then, seeing the Laird of Glencove, who is in deep anguish.^ What? An' thou, too — old friend? Laird of Glencove Yea, my Prince. The King banished Albany from his sight after the Earl of March reached Court, and dispatched that noble man and myself to succor thee. We have but now secured that villain Ramorny and his followers, whom Your Highness shall see shortly tried before the Jet- wood men. Prince [Speaking with difficidty.l Nay, ere then I myself shall appear before the high tribunal where all are judged. 143 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Makjory [Sobhing.l Ah, don't, don't — my beloved husband ! Oh — Elizabeth \^With suppressed sobs, clenches her hands in anguish for a few moments, looks up to heaven as if in prayer. 'I Oh, merciful powers ! [The Laird of Glencove, who has re- moved his bonnet during the foregoing, tears it in his anguish, and throws it down.'] [Ray of sunshine from window R. 3. E. illumines Prince.] ROTHSAY [With shining eyes, his voice failing grad- ually.] Faithful — friends — weep not — for me! All in life must pass into death. Why should we be loath to leave this world — of — selfish struggle? Oh, these useless pangs, that have been — tearing — my heart — 'Tis best so. Farewell, dear true hearts — until we meet — again — in a — brighter clime. [With pensive joy.] 144 PRINCE AND PROFLIGATE Ah! — a great calm — is coming over me. I — ^I am — g-going to — rest — eter-nal — r-rest ! [Falls back in death.] [Laird of Glencove bows his head in deep grief, working his eyelids to re- press his tears. Marjory wrings her hands in silent anguish. Elizabeth stands motionless and awe-struck.] Curtain 145 JAN 7 190P Qrtme anti flrotltgate ¥ granft ^, granfelin ^