vo. "THE GOLDEN CALF," A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS, BY ADOLPHE ROGE. NEV/ YORK : 1876. Entered according to Act of Congress, in tlie year 1876, by Adoli'HE Roge, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. AU rights reserved. THE GOLDEN CALF, A PLAY IN FOUR ACTS, BY ADOLPHE ROGE. NEW YORK; 1876. 'J: vzing her hi/ the atm.] No, remain, I am determined to finish with this subject ; let mo see no more of your scornful grimaces towards my wife, nor again hear that Mr. Shumann has to complain of you You have trailed in the mire a name until now respected ; all this must change or you go elsewhere, and seek another roof to hide your infamy! \_Ida sinks weeping iqjon sofa — Voices heard outside, Del. looks towards door, coming down, lowering voice.] It is Dr. Mayfield and his wife, tell them you have been sick this moruing. \_Ida wipes away tears.] \_Enter Doctok and Mes. Mayfield, c. Doctoe converses toiih Del.] Mrs. May. \_Gaily kissing Ida.] Dear, I have come to see your papa about a banking operation! [Notices Ida's sad air.] You have been crying ? Ida. I am suffering. [Shakes hands and converses with Dr. Jlayfiell] Bel. [To Mrs. May.] I hope, dear madam, you will excuse me, this is steamer day. Mrs. May. Certainly, only one word first ; The capital of our Orphan Asylum is invested at seven per cent., now I must have ten. Del. Certainly, dear friend, you shall have it. [Ida listens.] Mrs. May. [To Ida.] Ah ! Here is a good little papa ! I wish he was mine, I'd kiss him [To Del., taking paper from pocket.] I w^as so sure of your benevolence that !>0 THE GOLDEN CALF. I brought our twenty thousand dollars to your order. {Gives check to Del.^ ivho puts it in pocket.^ Ida. [Starts forward, but is stopped ly an angry look from Del.] [Aside. I Oh, my God ! Del. [Shakiny hands with Doctor and Mrs. ^lay.] Now busi- ness before pleasure. [To Mrs. May ] Of course it is for you only I do this. Mrs. May. And for our poor who will bless you. [Del. turns to leave, Mrs. May catches him by arm.] I forgot ! what am I to carry off for the benefit of our fair : A table, piano, horse, shoes, coat ? Dr. May. [Apart to Ida.] She has left me just what I have on ! Del. [To Mrs. May.] I will send you something [Aside.] It pays well. [I^xit, c] [Cries heard from Rosah chamber, i.] [Miter EosA, out of breath, dress in disorder, a letter in hand which she gives to Dr. May field, falls half fainting on sofa.] Rosa. Help, Doctor, help ! [All rush forward and fan her.] Dr. May. [Feeling pulse ^ A palpitation of the heart ! [Looks at Rosa^s letter.] Mrs. May. [Reading over her husbamVs shoulder.] " My angel, my sweet, 1 will soon be at your feet — Your repentant Timothy." All. [Congratulating Rosa.] Ah, ah ! [Mrs. May. and Ida converse.] Dr. May. [Giving letter lack.] Miss E,osa accept my sincere congratulations. [Going.] Rosa. [Agitatedly.] Stay, Doctor, stay ! [Doctor sits near her on sofa.] Excuse my dishabille, I was watering my flowers when I received this heavenly message ; I must speak to you immediately, I have not a minute to lose ! ACT FIRST. 21 Dr. May. In regard to your health ? Rom. Yes, Doctor, \ai)art\ I am not in condition for a bride ! \I)octor starts.'] I am so thin ! [ Wipes tears away.'] iJr.May. [^.s/fl'(^'.] A characteristic of old maidism. {^AJoud.] Some people never get stout — Rosa. Doctor, I am naturally plump, full of dimples, but they all vanished with Timothy. [ Weeps.] Dr. jSIay . Eat rare meat, drink a little invigorating cordial Rosa. \Startiny.] no liquor for me, Doctor, I, an apostle of temperance ! Dr. May. Only a teaspoonful daily. Rosa. I will try for Timothy's sake. Dr. May. [ Risiny.] Who will bring back all the charms — Rosa. [^Aioart, with modesty.] Of yore ! — I feel it Doctor ! Dr. May. You see ! {^Extends hand — Rosa detains him.] Rosa. [Mysteriously.] This is not all ; but I must be strictly alone with you. Dr. May. [Starting.] Indeed ! Ida. So, aunty, we leave you — [Rises with Mrs. May field.] Mrs. May. [Going up stage with Ida.] To my husband's care — You know I mean to have your parrot for the fair. Rosa My polly ! — To-day for the first time she said the name of Timothy ! [Exeunt Mrs. May. and Ida laughing.] [Doctor sits on sofa near Rosa. Rosa. [Moves to end of sofa as if frightened at JJuetor, aside.] He is so young, I hardly dare trust him ; Doctors are all such flirts ! Dr. May. [Aside.] Eather ripe for a chaste Susanah ! [Aloud ] What can I do for you. Miss Eosa ? Rosa. [Coming nearer Doctor.] I wish you would inquire 22 THE GOLDEN GALE. whether, at the emission of the French war loan, Mr. Shumann, banker in Hamburp:, was buyer or seller ; it must be known in financial circles ? Dr. May. Assuredly ; I will write to that purpose to an intimate friend of mine in Europe. — \_Titey I'ise.] Rosa. And let me know the answer as soon as possible. \_Goin(/ up staye tvith Dr. May.'] It is a secret between us — Dr. May. \_Near door, c. Shakiny hands.] Which shall be well kept. \_E.vit c. l.] Rosa. \ Comes down pressing her letter against her heart — sits on sofa — reads it over toiih emotion.] '• My angel, my sweet ! ■ — T will soon be at your feet ! — Your repentant Timo- thy " ! — [ICisses letter.] Short, but to the point ! [Unter Mrs. Delaware and SnuMANN, c, lauyhiny.] Rosa. \_Starting.] Good gracious ! \_Runs off adjusting her garments, l.J Jlrs. Del. [To Shumann.] Did you see old E,osa ? Shumann. [Laiighmy.] Reading Jack's — I mean Timothy's letter. 3frs. Del. What a pity he is so bald ! \_Laughs.] Shumann. [Laughing.] A wig will make a capital Timothy of him ! 3Irs. Del. After twenty years of longing, she would throw herself into the arms of the first who presented himself under that name. [They laugh.] Does Jackson consent to pay us a commission ? Shumann. Of fifty per cent., and too happy to do it at that; I broke him at play last night, it is a chance for him to refill his pocket ! [They lauyh.] Mrs. Del. Now do you want to see Ida ? Shumann. Certainly, let us start the game. Mrs. Del. I'll have her called down in your name, you shall see how quickly she will come. [Axit c] ACT FIEST. 23 Shumann. [Tabs seat near talk, turns leaves of photographic al- Inm.] All the blessed family ! Eosa ! [Lauyhs.] Good looking, but its long ago, Jackson will take charge of her and her cash! [Turns a lea/.] Delaware! Pop has a splendid hold on him ! [Turns a leaf.] Ah, Ida ! Always the same cold, haughty air ; I'll soon bring her down. [Enter Ida, r.] Shumann. Dear Ida ! [Leads Ida near sofa.] Ida. How do you do Mr. Shumann ? [Ida sits on a chair, Shumann on sofa ] •Shumann. I am glad to see you yield, at last, to my solici- tations, for you appeared to avoid me. Ida. What a strange idea ! I know that your father has for mine, the kind consideration of a true friend, then surely I can only entertain for you the same feeling — Shumann. speak no more of friendship between us, it should only make easier, warmer, another sentiment which your beauty inspires, but which, alas, your heart ignores ! [Drops on his knees.] do not let me longer si"-h in vain, I offer you a sincere heart, my hand, my fortune, and a life of ineffable happiness ! Ida. [Hesitating.] If I was to tell you that I love you,— that I accept you [Rising— coming down stage with Shumann.] Listen : I prefer to speak to you on this subject in my father's presence Shumann. 0, I am the happiest of men !— I thank you, my Ida! [ Throws his arm around her ivaist — Ida shrinks with disgust— Shumann seems to think it shgncss on account of the entrance of Eosa.] [Enter Eosa, i.] [EurriedJg places herself between them, looking at Shumann men- acinglg.] 24 THE GOLDEN CALF. Shumann. \^Aside.^ What an old pest ! Ida. [Apart to Rosa.] I am so glad you have come ! [They converse.] Shumann. [Aside] What the devil does she want here? [Apart to Ida.] Our sweet tete-d-tefe is, unfortunately, interrupted, my Ida ! [Aside.] It is a complete con- quest ! [Aloud, throwing her a kiss.] Au-revoir, and it shall be soon, my dai'ling ! [Exit c] Ida. [Aside.] What impertinence ! Rosa. I knew he Avas here, so I came to relieve you of his importunity. Ida. Dear aunt, you did right ; 1 came in to see him to please father, who reproaches me for being ungrateful towards his family. Rosa. She puts all that into his head ; but have you given him any encouragement "? I saw him — [Imitates Shu- mannas manner of kissinr/ hand.] I never allowed such liberties to anybody but Timothy ! Ida. I wished to say that by accepting his hand and admitting that I love him, I should deceive him ; I re- quested to speak of this before father, in order that he might deny the horrible accusations somebody has made against me ; his actions on leaving shoAved me that his vanity saps what little intelligence T thought he possessed. Rosa. You reassure me, but beware ! Ida. There is nothing to fear, aunty Rosa. Nothing to fear ! — Poor child ! — This morning I heard a conversation, between her and him, which real- izes all my suspicions ; they Avant to make you the instrument and victim of an infernal scheme, in which your father also is to be inveigled ! Ida. Father also ! ACT FIRST. 25 Eosa. Nothing is too bad for a creature, who, while your mother's servant, recoiled before no infamy to obtain an impure hold over your father ; for her who hilled a benefactress with grief that she might take her place and play a part in society ; it is she who introduced into our house this disgraceful luxury to feast her inor- dinate vanity ! — Indeed, it is she who corrupts my brother's heart day by day, with the dream of a sudden and exaggerated fortune, seldom acquired without crime! \^Pausc.\ Beware Ida. [Gomrj up staf/e.] I tell you, beware ! [Krii, l] Ml. AVhat am I to think of all this? Those surrounding me exhale wrath and hate ! I have but entered the world and I already know all its sorrows; where is that mythical path of life strewn with flowers ! — father, why rob me of the sweet illusions of my youth ; why was you the first to unvail to me shame and vice, you, the author of my days ! — Dear mother, from your haven of rest, pour into my sinking soul some holy consolation ! \_Enter Shtjaiann, Miis. Delaware, Delaware, c] [^Verij All. [^Advancing towards Ida.'] Ho, ho ! Ho, ho ! Shumann. \_Taking Idah hand.'] Waiting for me, my angel ! \_Converses gaily ivith Z>el.] Mrs. Del [To Ida, pressing Iter in her arms.] Is it not better to be friends like this ? Permit me to congratulate you. [Replying to Ida's hole of stupefaction.] I know all about it, little Miss Mystery, we met Shumann and he was so overjoyed that he told us all ; he is wild wifh delight ; you couldn't have chosen a better husband. [Converses with Shumann] Del. [Taking Ida in his arms.] I thank you my child ! [ IVhis- pers^ You have saved me. [Aloud, taking Shumann in 26 THE GOLDEN CALF. his arms with Ida"\ What happiness for every one of us, above all for your father who blesses you my children ! [Shumann crosses to the left of Ida and talces her hand tenderly — Del. crosses to Mrs. Del. and converes with her.'] IJEnter Eosa, l ] [Places herself hetiveen Ida and Del.] Rosa. [Apart to Ida.] Have you given in to them, Ida ? Ida. [Starting^ talces hand away from Shumann.~\ Am I dreaming ? horrible nightmare ! [To Shumann.] Desist ! [Replying to Del^s angry hole.] Your anger, father, can only afflict me, but there is a power within, which enables me to bear suffering ; it is a conscience at peace, sustained by a pure love, that death itself has not overcome ? Shumann. [Aside.] Bah ! No getting rid of those French- men. Ida. The tears I still shed to his memory should be sacred ! 3Irs. Del. [Apart to Del.] This is shocking, Heavens ! Del. [To Ida.] Shameless girl, I curse you ! Ida. [Starting.'] Father, I am innocent ! [ Weeps.] [Soft music till end of act.] Rosa. [Taking Ida in her arms.] [To Del.] How Cruel. [To Mrs. Del.] Wicked viper, this is your work! Ida. [To Del.] If greed of riches has destroyed in you all sense of duty, if gold is your god and exacts a victim, I am ready for the sacrifice ; I will leave you ; I will abandon my home and earn the bread of the unfortu- nate, for which they never need blush ; then, rich in my honor, I shall be proud of my poverty. Tableau. CUETAIN. ACT SECOND. Three months are supposed to have elapsed bet-ween the first and second act. Scene :—A comfortalle and tasty little parlor in Dr. May field's house. {New York). Doors: one C—one E— window L. Dr. May field is seated hefore the taUe reading a periodical. Mrs. May field stands facing the audience, arranging flowers in vase on the talle. Dr. May field. I felt very anxious about Ida's health, indeed I almost desimired of her life when she left the hotel where she went to live after, so foolishly, abandoning her father's house. Mrs. Mayfield. She did it to shield herself from Mr. Shumann . She is going to marry him now to pleaso her father. Dr. May. Ta-ta-ta ! — 'Nour days most girls pretend to sacrifice to Love, making grimaces at him. Ha, ha, ha ! Mrs. May. [MocJcingly.'] Ha, ha, ha !— Her aunt told me all about it. 28 THE GOLDEN CALF. Dr. May. Eosa ! AVhy, she is glad to see her niece mar- rying the son of a rich banker Mrs. May. She is furious at it ! Dr. May. Nevertheless, she is quietly inquiring into the father's financial situation, etc.; but there are secrets between her and me which I am bound to keep. ILanyJis.'] Mrs. May. Ida is not happy, women are the best judges of heart troubles. Dr. May. If she had any chagrin, you would know it. [ Beads. } Mrs. May. There is often a sentiment, a souvenir hidden in a young girl's heart, like the dew drop in the flower chalice, the least ray of light, the least breath taints its purity ; mystery is necessary to it. — Woman's heart is a book that requires constant reading, [tappiuy on her hus- hand^s book to torment him'] but the reader often ^throws it aside, long before he comes to the last page ! [^Dr. Mayfield throivs booh on table, jumps up suddenly, while Mrs. May field rtins around the table.'] Dr. May. \_Rumiiny after his ivife.] The last page, it never comes with you little chatterbox ! [ Catches and hisses her heartily.] There ! — That is the last page. 3Irs. May. Of the first volume ? Dr. May. Of the first chapter! [Tries to hiss her ayain, she runs aivay pulling, his cravat imdone. — Dr. May. catches her in his arms. — Door bell rings.] Hush ! 3Irs. May. A visit ! Dr. May. We must be more dignified, my love ! Mrs. 3Iay. [Loohing in mirror.] How I am crumpled, my hair ! [Arranges her hair.] Dr. May. [ '^ith her before mirror.] my cravat ! | Knoch at door.] Come in ! [Unter John, c] ACT SECOND. 29 [Gives card to Dr. Mat/ field.'] Dr. Mai/. [To John.] Show him in, show him in! [Sxit John, c] [To Mrs. Mat/.] It is De Granville arrived fi'om Paris ! [TJxit ru7ining, c] Mrs. May. [Arranging her toilette before glass.] An elegant toilette to receive a Parisian in ! How red I am ! — Ah these husbands how they do fix you ! [MUer Dk. Mayfield and De Granville, c ] Dr. Mug. [Holding De QranvilUs arm affeotionatelg.] At last here is this dear De Granville. [Introducing.] My com- rade, the companion of my studies in France. [To De Granville.] Arthur, this is my little wife, [Offering a seat to De Granville.] And how is your dear mother ? [All sit.] De Granv. Alas, I am in mourning for her ! Mrs. May. Oh ! Dr. May. [Tahng De GranvilWs hand.] Poor friend ! De Granv. During the siege of Paris, she claimed her share of the dangers and suffering, but her health gave way while she nursed the wounded. Mrs. May. Generous soul ! Dr. May. Noble woman ! De Granv. When peace was signed, I found my property, in the suburbs, and which constituted all my fortune, destroyed by the artillery or ravaged by the enemy. Ruined, alone in the world, with no one to care for, life seemed like a night of sorrow weighing me down ; but relying on the strength of my arm and Avill to shake off this torpor, I came to America, my country also, as it is the refuge of the unfortunate. Dr. May. You. are welcome. Mrs. May. You will soon find your place among us, Mr. De Granville. 30 THE GOLDEN CALF. Dr. May. Remember you are at home, iu the house of a brother. \_Pomting to his ici/e.'] There is your sister — Now make yourself comfortable ; perhaps you would like to retire to your chamber ? Mrs. 3£ay. [Rising.'] I will just see that everything is ready. \_To De Granv.] Excuse me. De Granv. [Rising ivith Dr. Mag.'] Certainly Madame ! [£xit Mrs. Mayfield, r.] Dr. Mag. Have you brought anything ready for publica- tion ? De Granv. [Bouhtingly .] A drama Dr. May. Good ! — I will recommend it to a friend of mine, manager of one of the principal theatres in New York. Be Granv. 1 have little faith in its success, it is my first essay for the stage ! Dr. Mag. Let us hope for the best ; anyway this will not hinder your taking a commercial position should occa- sion present. Now you must rest while I visit some patients, who by this time are looking for me anxiously. De Granv. Do, by all means. [Exit ivitk Dr. Mayfield, r.] [Miter Mrs. Mayfield and Ida, c] Ida. [Coming down with Jfrs. Magfield.]- Naughty one, to neglect me so when you know I am aboiit to leave for the country. Mrs. Mag. My dear girl, I have been detained by the ar- rival, from Europe, of a friend of my husband. How do you feel to-day V Ida. I think I breathe easier, perhaps I am still to live. [Takes off hat and shawl, j)laees them on a chair — comes hack to Mrs. Magfield.] Mrs. Mag. What a gloomy tone ! — On the eve of marriage, life should seem to you aglow with joy. Ida. 0, I never hope for that again ! [ Weeps.] ACT SECOND. 31 Mrs May. [Carressing Ida.'] Fy, Fy ! Ida, what is the matter ? — You have always been my confident why should I not be yours ? My heart may inspire me with some consolation for your griefs ! Ida. I live in a dream which is now a wrong. [ Weeps.'] Mrs. May. If you do not love Mr. Shumann why did you engage yourself to him ? Ida. When they brought me back to the house I was dying, exhausted by sickness and sorrows, I had no strength to resist my father's entreaties, I gave up to his will ! [ Weeps.] After all what does it matter? — It is a sacrifice I am bound to make for him. Mrs. May. [Doubtinyly.] Esteem will beget afi'ection. Ida. No — Women love once only ! 3frs. May. [Siartiny.] Then you have loved ? Ida. [Pause.] Florence, I have idolized ! [Pause. - lays head on Mrs. May.''s shoulder. — Raising it sudde^ihj.] I will open my heart to you as there are secrets which kill ! Mrs. May. Speak, let me share your pain. Ida. During the six months I stayed in Paris last year, with father and his wife, I met, at the soiree of the American Ambassador, a young French author, son of a general who died on the battle field. In my excur- sions about the city he accompanied and taught me to appreciate scientific wonders and artistic beauty. Under his influence I felt all my being transformed as though inoculated with new life Mrs. May. Life blossomed for you ! Ida. Thoughtless and gay, I became restless, dreamy, I sought even in my sleep an ideal being to whom I might consecrate my whole existence, with pleasure, with pas- sion ! Suddenly from the depths of this misty horizon, he appeared to me like a gentle spirit, extending arms 32 THE GOLDEN CALF. to which. I was irresistibly drawn ! He came to me as I went to him. — At first his voice disturbed me, I blushed beneath his gaze, but before long I found near him a delicious, a celestial calm ! Mrs. May. Yoti loved each other. Ida. And when he proposed that we shovild blend our lives in one, writing, aiding each other with mutual inspira- tion, Florence, how sweet the tie of marriage strengthened by labor seemed to me ! Mrs. May. Then you were engaged ? Ida. We had even fixed the date of our wedding, when one hapless day, in the ^'■Champs Ebjseh,^'' I was attracted by enticing music proceeding from a park, over the gate of which was written in golden letters, as by ironic fatality : '■'■Chateau des Fleurs.^'' Palace of Flowers ! Like an independent American girl I went in Mrs. May. And ? Ida. A [hesiiatiny'} gentleman addressed me in a most in- delicate manner. Mrs. May. Ho ! Ida. All at once I saw my friend hurriedly enter, angrily he forbade my accoster to speak to me. Mrs. May. Good ! — This was no place for you. Ida. He was insulted, they exchanged cards, then we went home, but I never saw him again ! Mrs. May. Never saw him again ? Ida. I learned that his mother had gone to Belgium, where her son lay dying from wounds received in a duel, of which I was the cause ! [ Weeps.] Mrs. May. Dreadful ! Ida. Ah, Florence ! From that moment I have undergone all that a woman can suffer ! J/rs. May. 0, I understand, dear ! f ACT SECOND. 33 Ida, I besoiiglit my fatlier to accompany me to Belgium — Mrs. May. He did ? Ida. He promised first to do so ; without losing- time I wrote to his mother for news of him Mrs. May. She replied ? Ida. That her only consolation was that her son had done his duty, for there was no hope of his recovery ; that in his delirious moments he spoke of me ; this was all she was able to write having scarcely strength enough to weep ! \_Wee2)s.'\ Mrs. JIay. Poor mother ! Ida. Do you see him dying for me and I not there to staunch his wounds, to bathe them with my tears or inhale his last sigh ! [ Weeps. ] 3Irs. May. It would have been a comfort to him and a solace to you. Ida. While perhaps he thought me unfaithful ; and, after being the cause of his suffering, I added anguish to the pang of death ! [ Weeps.] Mrs. May. [Carressing Ida."\ No, his love would prompt an excuse for you. Ha. I would have braved everything, if only to bid good- bye to his mortal remains, to throw myself at his mother's feet to implore her pardon, but father then opposed my departure — 3Irs. May. ! Ida After passing days and nights in tears, I was taken sick, I lost all consciousness, and when I came to my- self, all was over ! Mrs. May. He was dead ? Ida. Father told me that he was dead ! [ Weeps ] Mrs. May. [^Taking Ida in her arms.'] Weep, my Ida, tears sooth ! \_Pause. J What became of his afflicted mother ? 34 THE GOLDEN CALF. Ida. Father said, she also died shortly after her son ! Mrs. May. What a sad story ! — And his name was ? Ida. De Granville ! Mrs. May. IStartiny.'] De Granville ? Ida. Do you know that name ? — Oh, Florence [JSnter Kitty, slioiviny in Delaware, Shumann and Mrs. Delaware, c] \_Exit Kitty, c] IMrs. Del. and Shuma^m yay and noisy — Uel. looks angry.'] Del. [To Mrs. May. — coming dotvn..] Excuse me, dear Madam, but I am out of patience with Ida ! The invi- tations to her wedding are all distributed and she does not even seem aware of it! [To Ida.} We are waiting for you to go with us to select your bridal jewels, before taking the boat for New Brighton and here you are coolly chatting ! [Ida puts on hat and shaivl.'] For pity's sake make haste, make haste ! [During the preceding Mrs. Del. and Shumann converse with Mrs. Mayfield.'] Mrs. Del. [Going to Del.] Now, now, dear, you must be a little indulgent. Mrs. May. Especially with young girls about to be mar- ried. Mrs. Del. [To Mrs. May.] Their heads are turned. We know all about that, eh, my dear ? The poor children are crazed with delight. Shumann. [Apart to 3Irs. May.] You will see what ex- travagant follies I am about to commit for her sake. [Converses with Mrs. Mayfield — Ida ivith Mrs. Delaware.] Del. [Aside, looking at f;«/?er on table — Angrily:] Gold : a hundred and twenty ! [Ih Ida.] Well, Ida, are you ready ? [Ida puis on gloves.] 3Irs. Del. [Shaking hands.] Good-bye, my dear Mrs. May- field. ACT SECOND. 35 Shumann. [To Mrs. 3Iay field.] Adieu Madam. [Exeunt Mrs. Del, and Shumann, c. — Del. waits near door for Ida.] Ida. [Apart to Mrs. Maijfield.'\ I will try and come right back, I must speak to you again. 3Irs. May. I also, I sliall wait for you. [Emlraces Ida.] Del. [Near door.] Hurry Ida, hurry ! [Exit Iba, c] [Del. returns in hurry — Gives hand to Mrs. Mayjield.] I hope you will endeavor to make Ida see the necessity of hastening matters, she has not a moment to lose. il/rs. 2Iay. I will do everything for her happiness. [As Del. is runniny out.] One word more ; a friend, just ar- rived from Prance, poor, but highly educated needs a situation Del. Which I place at your disposition in my counting house; come and see us at the villa, with your protege. [Exit runniny, c] Mrs. May. Hum ! there goes a father very anxious to marry his daughter off! Looks badly! [Pazise, think - iny ] De Granville I Is it possible ? If it is he, my fine Shumann will have to dazzle other eyes with his jewels. [Thinkiny.] I hope he is the De Granville ! — Ha, ha, ha ! The father invites me to bring him to hig house, to put the fox in his hen roost ! Ha, ha, ha ! — Fathers have no luck when they interfere in their daughters' love affairs, there is always a spoke loose in their wheel. Mine recommended me a neighbor, a good, innocent young man, rich, [imitatiny a flute player,] a flute player, but paf ! Ten months ago he took me, for my health, to Long Branch, where I met, in the water, the most impertinent little Doctor, poor as Job's turkey, who under pretext that I was drowning took me in his arms, gave me a most aggravating kiss, right on the eye, and afterwards put me through such a regimen that he 36 THE GOLDEN CALF. made me jump the broom, pretty quickly too ! The dear little devil ! Ha, ha, ha ! . \_Lnter Dr. Mayfield, c] [Goes toivards her on tiptoe, while she laughs, and takes her gal- antlij hy the waist.'] Mrs. Maij. \_Starting .] Ah! [Turning, taps him on cheek.] Dr. May. [Kissing her.] How is my angel? 2Irs. May. Ah, your angel is all in a flutter, topsy turvy ! Br. May. What's the matter ? — I hope De Granville is not sick? 3Trs. May. Not he, but Ida has just been here, she re- vealed something vei-y unexpected, that will astonish you, if my suspicions are realized ! Dr. May. Well, do tell me, quick ! Mrs. May. I said she did not love Shumann, do you know who she adores ? Your friend De Granville ! Dr. May. Already ! [Laughs^ De Granville is doing very well, and Miss Ida also ! [Laughs.] Love at first sight, Frrr ! like a match ! [Laughs^ Some men are lucky ! Mrs. May. She has not yet seen him. [Dr. May. laughs. \ She does not even know that he is here, but they were engaged in Paris. Dr. May. What ! — My dear, if it was so, they would be» to-day, Monsieur and Madame with an heir in the bar- gain. Mrs. May. No, no, Mr. Delaware was obliged to leave Paris suddenly on account of the war. Br. May. [BouUingly.] And since then they have com- pletely lost sight of each other ? Mrs. 3Iay. So it seems. Br. May. Bah, bah, bah ! There is something here, a mystery that you do not know and I beg you will not meddle with it. ACT SECOND. 37 Mrs. May. But Ida would be cured completely. l>r. May. That's not your business ! \_Looks at papers on table.] Mrs. May. [Aside.} No remedy for girls, like a good husband, I know it ! J>r. May. Would you go to a young man, landed this morning, and tell him that Ida is madly in love with him, when you know, too, she is about to be married to somebody else very agreeable to the father ? Children should never set aside paternal sanction, without it a marriage is but half legitimate ! Mrs. May. Hallo ! Surely you have trumped up that beautiful principle for the occasion ! Ha, ha, ha ! My lord who said to me twelve hours ago : " Florence it ia the number of offspring makes marriage legitimate ! " Mrs.^Iay. | Ha, ha, ha, ha ! Mrs. May. [Coaxiny Dr. May. while he is lauyhing.'] Now listen to me : I only want to aid them a little, just to start them down the hill, Dr. May. No, no, no ! My position as Doctor, obliges me to use great discretion, especially in family matters; this time try and hold your little tongue. Mrs. May. I have nearly let it run already. Dr. May. I am sure of it ; I shall feel hurt if you do not follow my advice in this instance, you hear ? Mrs. May. Very well, I will say nothing, though it is cruel ! Dr. May. [Carresniny her.] Never fear, love is a magnet which, despite all obstacles, draws those who love to each other ! [Looks at the clock.] My ! It is late, I must go adieu, dear ! [Kisses her.] [Exit, c] Mrs. May. It is too bad, it's a shame to have them so near 38 THE GOLDEN CALF. •each other and do nothing for them ! — If it is he ! — I will know anyway, there is no harm in that. \_Rings the bell.] I am curious; well, I am nothing- but a daughter of Eve ! {_Siis near table and embroiders.] \_Enter Kixxr, c] Mrs. May. Tell Mr. De Granville, if it is convenient, I should like to see him. \_Exit Kitty, e. Leaving door 02)e?i'] what a splendid couple they would make! But perhaps he does not care for her any more, they say the French are so inconstant. Never mind, it is a sin to let Ida marry a man she does not love; what a terrible pill it must be to gobble down ! [Enter De Granville, e.] De Gran. You have done me the honor, Madame, of sending for me ? Mrs. Mag. Yes, I have good news ; I have found a posi- tion for you, if you will accept it De Gran. Already ! How shall I express my gratitude ! Mrs. Mag. Easily! \ Embroiders.] De Gran. tell me then ! Mrs. May. Sit down first [Embroiders^ Be Gran. [Aside, taking a seat.] AVhat a charming little original ! Mrs. Mag. By escorting me in society, when my husband is engaged with his patients. De Gran. I shall be only too glad to do so, Madame. 3Irs. Mag. l^articularly when my club " The Phantoms" meet. De Gran. "The Phantoms!" The name is enough to frighten one ! 3Irs. May. Eeassure yourself, you will only meet some pretty American girls, they are sometimes fascinating enough though to be feared; ACT SECOND. 39 Be Gran. Yes, Madame, I know that too well! ^Trs. May. Inde m1 ! I hear that in Paris they make terrible havoc with Frenchmen's hearts, look out for yourself ! De Gran. No danger, Madame, the evil is done, I have already been under their fire, I knew one in Paris. Mrs. May. [Aside ] Here it comes ! {Aloud.'] Ah ! and what did you think of her ? De Gran \ With deep sigh.] Pretty, very pretty, beautiful ! Mrs. May. How sadly you say that ! If you loved her why have you not married her V De Gran. She did not want me. Being detained in Bel- gium, by a severe sickness, I wrote to her several times, but received no answer, I then addressed her father — Mrs. May. What did he say ? De Gran. That she was already affianced to the son of a rich banker of Hamburg and that they were going back to America to celebrate the marriage. Mrs. May. [Aside.] She knows nothing of this, she has been deceived, f Aloud.] Her name was ? De Gran. Ida Delaware. Mrs. May. [Aside] Now I have it. [Aloud.] And you never heard anymore about her ? De Gran. Yes, Madame, but in the most singular fashion. [Searches in his pocht.] Mrs. May. [Aside ] This puts me ail astray now ? De Gran. At the Post Office in Paris, I found a letter for me, which I have carefully preserved, for although written in a silly style, by an illiterate person, it gives me hope, vague, ridiuclous it may be, but a hope which largely influenced my decision in coming to America. Mrs. May. [Aside.] I have lost all track at present ! De Gran. [Giving letter.] Here it is, Madame. Mrs. May. [Reading.] "Dear sir: Come this way, she 40 THE GOLDEN CALF. " don't care for old Shumann. \_They laugh . — Reads.'] Go " aliead like a man and everything will turn up right ! " \_The)j laugh.] You have no idea who sent you this? De Gran. It seems to be one who understood the subject. Mrs. May. After all what's the difl'erence to yju who she cares for now ? To lose one lady love is to find two. Be Gran. Madame, I have good reason to be deeply interested ! \Pause.\ Let me tell you all, for your woman's heart, so generous, will appreciate the wants of mine thirsting for that happiness which abounds in yours, bathing all your life in the fragrant perfume which so elates you. Mrs. May. With pleasure, proceed. \Emhro\ders.'\ De Gran. The young girl of whom I spoke was calm, dreamy; her time was consecrated to study; our tastes and ambitions were the same, we lived in a perfect communion of ideas; therefore, when, without hesitation, without a doubt, we were plighted, I thought it was forever Mrs. May. Of course it was ! l^Aside.] Well, I nearly let it out ! De Gran. After her departure Paris was to me a desolate abode, for she had become the soul of my existence; I was like those trees which droop and die as soon as the flowei' is plucked ! \Thinlis.'\ Mrs. May. \_Aside.'\ How well he expresses all this ! \_Ein- hr Older s.] De Gran. Why she left me without a word of explana- tion, a word of farewell, I never can understand ! Mrs. May. Do not be discouraged, Mr. De Granville, happier days will dawn for you. l^Aside.] If Ida would only come back ! lAmbroiders ; aloud.] So you do not think you will ever forget her. ACT SECOND. 41 De Gran. never, Madame, never ! Mrs. May. You are right, you will not find many like her. [^De Gran, starts.'} [Aside.'] Halloo ! De Gran. [Tf^ith great animation.'] You know her! Oh Madame, tell me about her ! Jlrs. May. [Aside.] There he is off! De Gran. My good star brought me here and you will bring me heaven ! Mrs. May. [Aside.] How shall I stop him ? [Einlr aiders.] De Gran. Where can I see her, does she ever speak of me, is she married ? 3Irs. May. [Troubled.] I don't know ! [Aside] The dic- tionary calls that a lie ! Caa't be helped, my tongue goes all crooked to day ! De Gran.^Do not fear to pain me, I must know the truth ! Mrs. May. My husband won't allow me De Gran. [Laughing heartily.] Ha, ha, ha, ha ! 3Irs. May. [Aside.] Florence you'll get it to night ! De Gran. [Laughing.] I will not insist then, but, surely, he will explain. Mrs. Mag. [Aside'] Good, he is cooling down ! [Aloud.] I hope so. De Gran. Ha, ha, ha, ha ! Mrs. May. [Aside.] Another blunder! Its all Ida's fault, she ought to have been here long ago. De Gran. [Rises, laughing.] I tear I am infringing on your time Mrs. May. Not at all, stay. [Aside, while Dti Granville sits.] They must meet by chance, before Albert comes in, or we shall celebrate our first spat. [Aloud.] I am wait- ing for a charming friend of mine, I hope you will keep me company until she comes ! [Aside ] I must try and be smart. | Embroiders] 42 THE GOLDEN CALF. Be Gran. [^Aside.'] It is Ida ! [Aloud, gaily.'] A brunette, with great, dark, tender eyes, fair as alabaster, a pro- voking little foot, the hand of a princess and the most adorable form ! [Laughs ] Mrs. May. I don't know, I'm sure ! [Aside, while Be Granville laughs.'\ Another fib, and a pretty stout one too ! [Eml)roiders.~\ Be Gran. [Aside.] She is determined to startle me, funny little creature ! 3Irs. May. She will be here directly. [Aside.] This is perfectly natural, my husband can say nothing. [Bell rings.] De Gran. > . ^ ., . -, . , ,• 3I-S. May. \ i^'^O'^^'^^r, rismg.] Ah ! Be Gran. [Excitedly.] There she is! 3Irs. May. [Aside.] In time to save me a good scolding ! [Enter Kittt, c] Kitty. [Announcing.] Miss Delaware ! [E.cit c] 3frs. Mag. [Replies to Be Granville by an affirmative nod, aside.] Now look out for the collision ! [De Gran, rushes towards door as though expecting to see Ida.] [Enter Eosi, c ] [De Granville meets Rosa entering door, catches her tenderly in his arms, kisses her warmly.] Mrs. May. [To De Granville and Rosa.] Stop, stay! [Rosa raises her veil, De Granville perceives his error and starts hack in amazement — Mis face covere / with black on one side, tvhite and red on the other — Coat also covered with powder.] Rosa. [Coming down.] my heart ! De Gran. [Aside.] Heavens ! Mrs May. [Aside.] On the wrong track ! De Gran. [To Rosa.] Madame excuse me, I am dum- foundered ! [Aside.] How can Mrs. Mayfield imagine I ACT SECOND. 43 *? am in love with such an ante-deluvian antiquity. [Aloud to Eosa.'] Be kind enough to excuse me ! [Arranges coat.'] Rosa. [Out of breath.'] AVhy yes, sir, eas ly, easily! [Be- places hat.~\ I know the transports of love. [Takes breath.] l)e Gran. [Slihj feeling] his chin] She nearly took the piece off! Jiosa. But if my intended, Mr. Timothy Kuapp, had seen you, it would be very grave ! [Apart to Mrs. May.] I am all in a quiver ! [Laughs.] Mrs. May. [Aside.] I gave the signal, but they wouldn't give me time to change the switch ! [Introducing.] Mr. De Granville, Miss Delaware. [ Converses with Rosa ] De Gran. [Aside ] Another shock like this and I shall become insane ! [Arranges his hair and stands pensively in ) a corner.] Mrs. May. [To Rosa.] How is your health, [all sit,] how are you to-day ? Rosa. Blooming, dear, blooming ! [8lily opens her shawl to show 3Irs. May. her waist. Apart.] Love works wonders ! De Gran. [Aside., looking at Rosa.] Miss Delaware ! [Tliinks.] Mrs. May. [To Rosa.] You look very happy Rosa. My head is giddy with joy ! - what a little goose I am ! De Gran. [Aside.] my ! Mrs. May. What has happened ? Rosa. He has returned to me, my beloved ! De Gran. [Aside ] Hey ! — What does she say ? Mrs. May. [To Rosa.] Is this indeed so ! Rosa. [Apart to Mrs. May.] And in splendid condition ! Such a fine shape! | Whispers to Airs. May field.] De Gran. [Aside.] She shows a good deal of spirit, I begin to like her after all ! 44 THE GOLDEN CALF. Jirs. May. [Aside, looking at Be Granville.'] Poor follow, what a blow I have dealt him ! Rosa. [Apart to Mrs. May. — De Granville listens.'] We met this morn, he thought me delicious ! [ Whispers to Mrs. 3Iay field.] De Gran. [Aside., wipimj his face ivith handkerchief ] A fragile beauty ! Rosa. [Apart to Mrs. May.] And yet I was not dressed for I was just out of my bed, I mean my bath. [As she raises her voice excitedly.] But I was fresh, perfumed, I flew into his arms and everything was forgotten in a long kiss of ineffable bliss ! De Gran. [Aside.] Ah, ah! The girls of this country seem to appreciate that sort of thing only when they are fifty ! Mrs. May. [To Rosa.] I am delighted to hear such good tidings. Rosa. [Aside, De Gran, listeniny.] I came, also, to inform you of something particular and strictly private ! De Gran. [Aside, risiny.] She does not want me here ! [Aloud.] Ladies will you excuse me ? Mrs. May. Mr. De Granville pray remain, it will be a pleasure to have you with us. De Gran. You are very kind, Madame, but I do not feel well, I need the fresh air ! Mrs. May. [Aside.] Eeally it was enough to kill him ! [Alo^ld.] Come back soon, don't go far. De Gran. Only a few blocks ! [Bows and exit e.] Rosa. [Pointing to De Granville.] He is much the same style as my Timothy, indeed I thought it was he ! Mrs. Jfay. We were talking of his lady love, a beautiful young girl Rosa. And he mistook me for her ! [Lauyhs.] I was so ashamed ! — My Timothy, too, is crazy about his Rosie; ^ ACT SECOND. 45 he calls me his little duck, his little pet, his little puss ! — And he is so impatient ! — You know what men are ! \_Laughs.'\ Mrs. May. He came back good and virtuous, of course ? Rosa. Deacon of the church of " The Chaste Joseph" and so my brother procured for him. immediately, the situation of cashier in the Safe Deposit Co. Mrs. May. I congratulate you ! — This is what you have to communicate so strictly private ? Rosa. \Startiny.'\ I am glad you remind me : I want to tell you that I have the certitude that my brother is shamefully deceived by his wife ! Mrs. May. Mrs. Delaware ! [Both rise.'] Rosa. And what's more, the other day I saw her make Shumann sign a note, giving her a quarter of Ida's for- tune for urging my brother to force his child into a wretched slavery ! Mrs. May. horror ! — Are you su e of this, Miss Rosa ? Rosa. What I say, I saw and heard ! Mrs. May. Then we must contrive to keep off this mar- riage as long as possible. Rosa. Until I am able to unveil, proof in hand, such in- famy ! Mrs. May. Speak to your brother. Rosa. I have attempted to do so several times, but he turns his back on me as if I was crazy ! 3frs. May. Then Ida must know all, it is a pressing ne- cessity. Rosa. This morning, so soon as I mentioned the name of Shumann she stopped me, saying that I ought to talk respectfully of her future husband ; she even reproached me with having more hate in my bosom for them thaa affection for her, whom I love as my own child ! [ Weeps,'] 46 THE GOLDEN CALF. Mrs. May. [^Aside.'] And to think I tried to persuade her to resign herself to this marriage ! \_Aloiid, going up.'] Come, I will explain it to her. \^LnterDR. Ma.yfield, c] \^Meets them near door.] Dr. May. [To 3Irs. 3Iayfield. — Giving hand to Rosa.] Are you going out, dear ? Mrs. May. [To Dr. May. — Coming down with Rosa.] I must see Ida, she is menaced with a frightful misfortune, the work of Mrs. Delaware and Shumann. Dr. May. [To Rosa.] What !— Is it possible ? Rosa. Doctor, I swear it ! Dr. May. The easiest way then is to acquaint Ida, with the arrival of De Granville. 3Irs. May. [Rcproaehfully.] Ah, you see now ! [To Rosa.] The gentleman who was here when you came Rosa. [To Mrs. May ] The one who gave me such a smack ? [All laugh ] Mrs. May. They were engaged in Paris. Rosa He has come just in time, we will take good care of him. [To Dr. May field.] Unfortunately Ida has left for the country 3Irs. May. I will go to her there. [Turns to leave.] Dr. May. [Detaining her.] Better yet, speak to De Gran- ville, he will manage his affairs best himself. Mrs. May. Why did you stop me awhile ago, now he is out ! — men, when will you let poor women have their own way ! [Exit, c] Rosa. [ Giving hand to Doctor May. \ When they have strength enough to resist them ! [Laughs.] [Exit, c] Dr. May. [Coming down.] Ha, ha, ha! — The old witch! [Thinking.] Well, well, poor Delaware pays dearly for his follies ! His chambermaid has long appeared to me ACT SECOND. 47 a designing jade, but he is so absorbed in his ambition to amass a lai'ge fortune, that he does not see the filthy slough in which he is sinking ! — Happily if the ■worship of " The Golden Calf brutalizes the rich, honest labor ennobles the poor ! [Miter John, c] [Gives Dr. Mai/ field a letter. 1 Dr. May. [After reading letter.'] John, I am obliged to leave immediately for Albany. [Prepares valise.'] Ask Mr. De Granville to excuse me for a day or two, and look to his comfort. [Looks at his watch.] Only twenty minutes to catch the train. [Hurries off, followed hij John with valise.] [Enter Ida and Kixir, c] Kitty. [Giving chair to Ida.'] She just went out with your aunt, and in such a hurry that she didn't even tell me when she would be back. Ida. [Taking off hat, gloves, ^c] No matter, Kitty, I will wait awhile. [Exit Kitty. '\ [Ida throwing herself into armchair near table.] Ah, how pleasant it is here ! what a grateful atmosphere I breathe in this modest home ! [Smells /lower on table.] And you, pretty little flower, with your bright, fresh color, how gladly you seem to greet life ! A soft, pure hand tends you, every- thing around exhales sincerity and love ; this little spot of earth where you sprang into existence is your own, and nothing intercepts the sunbeam which vivifies you. Don't you feel happy here, little darling ! [Kisses the flower.] [Enter John, c] [Hurriedly looks for something in cabinet.] Ida. What is the matter, John ? You seem excited. John. Beg pardon, Miss, but a tenement house around the cornel', in Third avenue, is on fire, and the engines have 48 THE GOLDEN CALE. not come jet; there are several already hurt, I came for lint. [^Loolcs in cabinet. 1 Ila. I wish I could help you. {Looks in cabinet with John.} John. I saw a gentleman, who arrived here this morning, go, through the flames, up to the fourth story, to rescue a child left alone there ; I fear he cannot escape ! [Eed light ] Ida. {Looking in cabinet} 0, here it is. \_Gwes lint to John.'] {Low music from orchestra until end of act.'] John. I will go to his assistance, any how, the Doctor told me to look after him. {L]xit John, c. Runs off, lint in hand.] Ida. {Looks out of window.] How red the sky is ! — God protect the homes of the poor, save the little child, spare that noble stranger ! {Stands in attitude of prayer.] { Voices from the street.] Hurrah ! Hurrah ! {A woman's voice from the door.] A mother's blessing will follow you forever. {Enter De Granville, c] {His clothes in disorder, slight blood stain on his forehead. De Gran. {Holding the door half open ] Thanks, my good woman, thanks ! {As De Granville enters Ida. starts back terrified. Without seeing Ida, De Granville wipes blood from forehead. — Aside.] These poor creatures overwhelm me with their gratitude, as though the pleasure of doing good was not recompense enough ! {Be Granville turns, sees Ida, l. aiid stands e. as though stupe- fied. Lach takes a step towards the other, recedes, then advances again. As Ida gains centre of stage, she totters, De Gran- ville rushes towards her, she falls fainting into his arms. Tableau. Curtain. ACT THIRD. Day following the second act. Scene : — A clearing in a thieklij wooded park at Delaware's country seat in New Brighton, [Staten Island.) — Statues, foun- tains, rustic bench and vases of flowers. — On the left a wall with small door. — On the right, through the trees, is seen a sumptuous villa. — The back ground, through the trees, repre- sents the bay of Hew York.] — ( Night coming ou gradually.) [Before the curtain rises, the orchestra plays " The last rose of Summer.'^] [liosa and Jackson are seated on the bench, Rosa playing the guitar. Jackson squeezes her icaist.'\ Rosa. Timothy behave, behave, you make me blush ! \_Puts guitar aside. — Aside ] Isa't he awful ! [Aloud.~] Don't forget, ducky, I am a fragile flower untouched by the breath of evil ! [Aside.'] But which the tempest would batter down! 60 THE GOLDEN CALF. Jackson What does your brother say of our union ? Rosa. O, the welfare of his family does not concern him much : I warned him that his child is marrying, ag iinst her will, the lover of his own wife and he docs not even seem to think of it. Jack. You must give him proofs. Rosa. [ seek them every day ; this morning I went through all her bureau draws and I found nothing suspicious but a queer little key Jack Perhaps the key of her box in the Safe Deposit Company, she comes there often. Rosa. [Siartfn,;.] What a bright idea ! That's where she hides her papers ! Wait, [thet/ rise,] I'll run and get it ! {^xit running, e] Jack. Shumann after cheating me at play, out of my last cent, cleans me of all I can scrape together or threatens to expose me, besides they want half of Eosa's fortune as soon as I get it; it is a nuisance to work so hard for others ; perhaps here is a chance to get rid of them; I'll take advantage of it. \_Enter Rosa, r, running ] Rosa. [Giving key.'] Here it is ! Jack. Exactly, the very thing ! Rosa. 0, now I have her in my power, now she shall pay for all her wickedness ! — Go, quickly, and bring all you find in her box, don't be long, " The Phantom Club" meets here to-night, look as nicely as possible, dear, I want every body to feel jealous of my Tim and his lit- tle Eosie ! [Fall into each others arms.] [Enter Ida. and Mas. Mayfield, k, conversing.] [Rosa and Jack, surprised, spring away from each other. — Rosah hustle and false hair fall off.] Rosa. [Aside.] Heavens, I am falling to pieces ! [Runs off' ACT THIRD. 51 holding skirts, while Jack, picks up giutar, hustle and hair.] Jack. [Aside.] My rose is shedding its leaves ! [Exif r.] Mrs. May. \To Ida, coming down.] Your father promised me a situation Ida. [Starting.] For Mr. De Granville ! Mrs. May. Yes, and in his own office, so I sent for him to come immediately. Ida. [With great surprise.] Here? Mrs. May. Why yes, my husband is absent, the poor fel- lovr is a stranger, all alone in the house, he must feel lonesome and anxious to hear about you. Ida. Did you tell my father his name ? 3Irs. May. He did not ask it. Ida. The thought of seeing him again, frightens me ! 3Irs. May. Your scruples are exaggerated, you are yet free and you ought to consider your aunt's advice ; for, suppose Mr. Shumann does not love you, suppose he only covets your fortune. Ida. These are merely suppositions, I cannot believe such meanness of him, for I have nothing to reproach and I cannot break my word ; I will teach him to love me. JAs. May. If he should regard you, like so many hus- bands do, as a luxurious ornament which more or less flatters his vanity? As to that intimacy which all virtu- ous women fondly hope to find in conjugal life, the dif- ference of intelligence, of aptitude between you will render it impossible Ida. Do not insist, Florence, I am fulfilling an imperious duty. Mrs. May. What do you say ? Ida. I can tell all to you ; listen then : My father, carried away by the seductions of gold, lost in speculation not only his own capital, but also, I have discovered, the funds confided to his probity 52 THE GOLDEN CALE. 3Irs. 3Iay. \ Starting.] And the money of our orphan asylum? Ida. I will be security for that. Mrs. May. You will be the victim of your father's impru- dence! Ida. Children are always victims of their parents' faults ! \Paiise.'\ Mr. Shumann may at any moment exact a settlement, my personal fortune would not cover one half of his claims and Mr. De Granville is poor. My father then bankupt, would, by my egotism, fall to the rank of a vulgar defrauder ! Can I live in luxury, intoxicated with love and happiness, when I know the tears, the anguish it costs the aged, the widow, the orphan ? Can I, Florence, put myself on a level with those un- blushing women, who boldly indulge and display splendors, which they know, are the fruit of the sordid, criminal rapacity of a father or a husband ? Mrs. May. How noble you are ! — do be happy ! Ida. Let my destiny be accomplished ! If the men of our country have not strength to hold honor high and firm, we, the daughters of America, will do our duty and set them the example. [^Approachiny Mrs. May tenderly.'] You weep for me, dear ? Dry your tears, my life will be short ; then you can tell Arthur why I refused his hand, and he will still cherish my memory ! [Unter Mk. a7id Mrs. Delaware, e.] Mrs. May. \^To Ida angrily^ perceiving them.] Here they are ! Del. [To Mrs. Del., holding a letter.] Excellent news, ex- cellent news ! [Seeing Ida and Mrs. 3Iay.] Ladies, I do not wish to drive you away, but, Ida, it is time you made your toilet for this evening, and remember you must dance. [To 3Irs. 3IayJield.] I wish you would ACT THIRD. 53 giv^e her the benefit of your taste. [Converses ivith Ida.\ 3Irs. Del. [To Mrs. May.] The poor darling needs it sadly, I am obliged to advise her every day. [To Ida.] Dear child, your lover will be here directly, now is your time to make a dash ! [Ltur/hs.] Mrs. May. Is it not V We were just talking about him. Ida. [To Mrs. May.] Come, let us go. [Exit ivith Mrs. May field, e.] Del. [To Mrs. Del.] Listen what Shumann writes me. [Readmy.] "At last war is assured ; the German army " only await the word to precipitate themselves again " on France, which, this time, will be completely "ravaged, ruined and French bonds worthless ! " Mrs. Del. this is grand ! Del. Then I shall be the richest banker in America ; I shall realize an immense fortune ! Mrs. Dell. And well earned ! What privation I have to submit to ! If it is not too late, you should now sell a large amount of the French loan. Del. True, I will send Shumann, this time, illimeted orders to that effect. [Referriny to letter.] But this is not all. [Reads.] " The marriage of my Fritz with your daugh- " ter binds us in bonds of eternal iriendship, and to " celebrate their engagement, I have credited your account forty thousand dollars ! Mrs. Del. [With emotion.] What munificence ! Del. What generosity ! And more ! [Realiny.] " I de- " sire that this letter shall be cons.dered, after their " union, as a receipt for the full payment of the debt " between us ; this is the wedding present I place in " the corheille of our beloved Ida ! " Mrs. Del. How proud she ought to be ! Del. [Wiping tears away.] Is it not afi'ecting ! 54 THE GOLDEN CALF. Mrs. Del. The least Ida can do, in retnrn for such benefit, is to leave her fortune wholly at her husband's disposi- tion, she owes him this. Del. I have already spoken of it to her ; Ida thinks it perfectly natui^al. Mrs. Del. Then your affairs will be regulated as soon as the marriage is consummated ! Del. Yes, and by the by, I wish their nuptials feted sumptuously ! Mrs. Del. 0, what is the use ? We can afford to be eco- nomical, as everybody thinks we are very rich. \_Enter Pompey, k.] Pompejj. Mrs Mayfield is in the parlor with a stranger. Mrs. Del. lIioti(jihl(/.'] His name '? Pompeij. Don't know it mam. Mrs. Del. {To Pomjmj.'] Stupid brute ! Del. [To Pompejj.'] I will be there directly. \^Exit Pompey, k.] Mrs. Del. \_To Del.] A stranger ! Who can it be ? Del. nobody, only a poor devil, just arrived from Europe, looking for a situation ! [Exit e.] [Mrs. Del. sils on bench fanning herself.'] [Enter SnuiiANN hi/ small door on the left.] Shicmann. [Approaches cautioushj and takes seat heside her.] How fortunate you are alone! — I have just gained, on Erie stocks, five thousand dollars ! 3Irs. Del. Five thousand ! If you go on like this, there will soon be no need of Ida — Shicmann. I shall never be rich enough for you, dearest ! — In the meanwhile you must have your share of my good luck ! [Hands her Jewel case.] [Enter Rosa, e.] [Peeps from behind trees.] Mrs. Del. [Opening case.] A princely gift! — O how I love diamonds ! ^ ACT THIED. 55 Shumann. The neclslace will not be finished until next week Mrs. Del. Bring it [leaning on Shiimami's shoulder^ when you nome to meet me in Philadelphia Shumann. [Kissing her hand.] Without fail ! Mrs. Del. With the deeds of this house, which I intend to sell while real estate is in demand. Shumann. They will be ready then Mrs. Bel. Sh, Ida ! [Both rise.] [Uxit Eosa.J [jLufer Ida, e,.] [Agitated, she looks anxiouslg towards house.] Mrs. Del. [To Ida.] What is the matter, my chill ? Shumann. You look fretted, darling, what is it? Ida. [To Shumann.] The gentleman of whom I spoke to you, whom I knew m Paris SJmmami. [Starting.] Mr. De Granville ? 3frs. Del. Mr. De Granville ! Ida. He is there, in the parlor ! Shumann. [Apart to 3Irs. iJel] A very black cloud on our horizon ! Mrs. Del. \ Apart.] It will dissipate. Ida. [Looking anxiously through the tvood.] At sight of him, I thought of you and I ran here ! Shumann. [Apart to Mrs. Delatvare.] What brought him to this house ? 3Irs. Del. [Makes sign to Shumann to be silent. — To Ida.] Your father told me that the young man is looking for em> ployment ? Shumann. [Aside.] It is not I would give him any ! Ida. He is poor, unhappy, and I heard father say he would do nothing for him ! [ fVijjes tears away andglanees towards house.] Mrs. Del. [Apart to Shumann.] Bad management ! 56 THE GOLDEN GALE. Shmam. [Apart to Mrs. Delaware.^ What plagues these Evenchmen are ! Mrs. Del. \To Ida.] Poor young fellow ! Ida. [To Mrs. Bel] You, so potent with my father, iu- tercede for him, I will be ever grateful, I will pray for you!- 1 beg you aid him, do not let him suffer! [Looh totvards lioxise.] Shmnann. [Aside.] Only a thread binds her to me ! Mrs. Bel. [To Ida ] My child, trust me ; I will speak to your father and it shall be as you desire. Ida. [Talcmg her hand tenderly.] O thanks, how kind you are. Mrs. Del. We never refuse anything to those we love . [Exit, R.J Shumann. The interest you feel in your former lover, would make me jealous, if I could be of an emigrant debarked, at Castle Garden ! [Laughs.] Ida. Your remark is cruel and unjust, I should like to see you more generous ; I have accepted your hand and I will keep my word. Shumann. You owe me that, my dear for our engagement has already brought your father in forty thousand dol- lars, and our marriage will cancel his debt with us, which is large enough, I assure you ! Ida. Eritz, I appreciate your father's liberality, but between us lay aside the money question; you have nothing to fear from Mr. De Granville. Shumann. If he annoyed me, I'd show him the outside of the door ! Ida. [With rage.] You, you would insult him ? [Aside.] Ah , I forget ! Shumann. [Aside.] I went too far ! Ida. You will like him when you know his character. ACT THIRD. 57 Slmmami. Why not ? Poor chap, if I could help him — Ida. ^Pressing his hand.] Thauks, Fritz, this is just what 1 expected of you. Here comes father with him ! [Agitated, takes Sliumann's arm. Exeunt, l.] [_Enler De Granville and Delaware, r.] Delaware. [Agitated, looks totvards Ida''s retreating figure — stqjpressing his emotion.] Let us remain here, we can converse openly without listeners. — When I told you that I could give you no situation, I forgot that I re- quired an agent for San Fraucisco De Gran. In California ? Del. California ; I am glad Mrs. Delaware reminded me of it, as by this means, I shall be enabled to acquit the service you did me. De Gran. I, sir ? I have done nothing for you ! Del. Pardon, I have not forgotton that you were mixed up, in Paris, in a certain affair, in which one of my family also took part. De Gran. I, only, did my duty, sir, and you will understand it so if you recall the nature of the feeling which bound me to Miss Delaware. Del. [Aside.] Can he love her still? [Aloud.] The feeling which all gentlemen entertain for young ladies of good standing and agreeable society. De Gran. Have you indeed forgotten, sir, that we were to be marrif^d ? Do you not remember Miss Ida spoke to you of our attachment, and on my part, while I was [hesitating,] detained in Belgium, I wrote to you and asked her hand V Del. Yes, Yes, I recall it now, and I am glad of this occa- sion to explain, for the last time, in order that I may dispel any illusions you might still retain on this sub- ject : As I then answered you, your union with my 58 THE GOLDEN CALF. daughter was impossible, her marriaga being already decided ; if she told you nothing about it, it .-hows a levity of mind which proves of how little consequence was her fancy for you ; at any rate your plans could not and can not be realized. De Gran. Why ? My name is already known in literary circles, I am young, by labor I may succeed, and a modest living suffices those who love each other. Del. \_Aside.'\ He thinks Ida is without fortune, and he loves her ! What would he do if he knew that as soon as she marries, she will be rich ! \_Aloml.\ I es- teem all these considerations, but they are held of little account in our society, where a man is valued according to his means, for what he is worth; fortune creates social degrees, which talent can never compensate ; so surely, you would not wish to condemn Ida to occupy, in the world, an inferior rank to that which she holds by right of my position and that of the opulent family which she is about to enter. However, it is useless to insist, her wedding day is fixed, and a word more would be out of place. De Gran. I comprehend, sir. Del. It is agreed, then, that you leave for San Francisco as my agent. De Gran. In my position I must accept with gratitude ! Del. But I make a condition, it is that you leave instantly. De Gran. Be kind enough to allow me a few days Del. Not an hour, not a minute ; I do not wish you even 1 1 return to the parlor. De Gran. {Aside.] This is strange ! [Alottd.] I cannot go away without seeing, at least, Mrs. Mayfield Del. I will excuse you, but your presence here, must be very disagreeable to Mr. Shumann and a painful em- ACT THIRD. 59 barrassment to my daughter. You ought to feel this, sir, and save me the trouble of saying it ! De Gran. True, I retire, but Bel. \8eemg Shumayin and Mrs. Delaware approach.'] Enough, they are coming ! \^Enter Mes. Delaware and Shumann, r] Mrs. Del. Well, is the affair all arranged, Mr. De Gran- ville ? Be Gran. Yes, Madame, thanks to your kind intervention. Bel. ITo Mrs Bel] He leaves directly for California. Shwnann. {Aside.] I should prefer China, it is farther off ! \^Co7iverses with Bel.] Be Gran. {To Mrs. J>el.] Allow me to say adieu, Madame, thanking you again for your kindness. Mrs. Bel. Take care of your health ; be good and virtu- ous, the first conditions of success ! Be Gran. {To Shumami.] Sir, I have the honor of saluting you! Shumann. Good luck, young man, good luck ! [Fxit De Granville bj/ small gate.] Bel. {Holding gate half open.— Te Be Granville] Telegraph your arrival and I will send you my instructions ! {Pushes gate.] At last he is gone ! ITrs. Bel. And for ever this time, I hope ! Shumann. If he comes back, I will take charge of him Bel. {To Shumann. \ Don't torn^^nt yourself about that pauper, hunger tames the heart ! [ Waltz music heard in the distance.] 3Irs. Bel. The club is assembled ! Shumann. They are dancing ! Bel. Let us join them. {Kveant b.] {Enter Eosa and Jackson, c] {Waltzing to the music— Talking, arm in arm they approach footlights.] 60 THE GOLDEN CALF. Bosa. And in spring, wlien the birds begin to warble their songs of love Jackson. We will s'o to Saratoga ! Rosa. And live in a dear little cottage ! Jack. [Moch'ntj her. ] A cunning little nest ! Itosa. With little chickens ! Jack. And little pigeons ! \_Changin(j tone.] You know I have them in my pocket. Rosa. The little pigeons ? Jack. Her papers. [Hunts in his pocket. — Music stops.~\ Rosa. that's so ! Let me see them. [Takes a paper from Jackson. — Reading.'] O the monster ! — I knew it well ! — See, here is the agreement she made Shumaun sign ! Jack. [ Giving a paper to Rosa.'] This is only a paid check, I don't see what importance she can attach to it. Rosa. It is a forgery Shumann committed ; she keeps it in case she ever needs to vise it against him. Jack. She's a pretty smart woman ! Rosa. An infernal creature! But you, dear, are the saviour of my family. [Giving hack papers to Jack.] Show these yourself to my brother, fire the powder and your for- tune is made ! — I fly, for him on the wings of love! [Ihrows a kiss and exit running, k.] Jack. [ Pa^lse.] My fortune will be made ! — That's not so sure ; on her return from Philadelphia, she will have me arrested, as Delaware Avill testify that 'twas I who gave him the papers ; naturally they'll conclude that it was I also who carried off her diamonds, bonds and deeds of property ; they will find out that I am not Timothy Knapp and then old Rosa will make me flit "on the wings of love," as she says, to " Sing Sing," for twenty years ! — Brrr ! — I won't take on myself to fire the powder on these conditions, I might burn my fin- ACT THIRD. 61 gers! [Looka towards the hoiise.'] There comes my bride with her brother, what the devil, shall I say ? lEnlcr Delaware and Eosa, [Del. hurriedly,) e.] Del. Well, my frieud, what is it, quick, be quick ! Jaclc. Very fiue night, sir ! \_Rosa signs to Jackson to speak freely.'] Del. You wish to consult me on an urgent matter, now what is it ? Jack. But — [Signs to Rosa to be sile7if,] I dou't know — Per- haps Bel. See here, Knapp, make haste, I am in a liurry. Rosa. [To Jackson.'] Tear nothing, my beloved, this will be the happiest day in our lives ! Del. [To Jackson.] Is it possible that at your age you are so timid ! I'll warrant you are about to ask me for my sister's hand ! Jack. You've hit it exactly ! [Rosa looks astonished, Jack, makes signs of silence to her.] Del. Well, well ! Get married as soon as you like ; you mu.st not disturb me for such matters! [To Rosa ] I am talking business in the parlor and you bring me out here for nothing ! — You are going crazy Rosa ! [Hurry- ing off.] You are going crazy ! [Exit, r.] Jack. [To Rosa.] It is too risky, I shall put them back in her box, I fear I should lose my situation. [They fol- low Del.] Rosa. true, and your good name ! [Exeunt.] [Enter Jenny out of hreath, l.] Jenny. [At door, weeping, pulls Dc Granville in hy the coat.] No, Mr. De Granville, I won't let go of you ! [Enter De Gr.4.nville, l.] De Granville. Jenny, I have orders from Mr. Delaware to leave immediately for California. 62 THE GOLDEN GALE. Jenny. \W Oh anger. '\ And I have orders from Miss Eosa and Mrs. Mayfield to make you come in and stay ! \^Slmts the door.'\ De Gran. But Miss Ida ? Jenny. I declare ! A girl can not, always, tell right out what she is wishing for ; it is very easy to guess though . When you left for the boat her eyes were fixed on you, she was as pale as [pointing to flowers] that lily; her look broke my heart, but started my legs at the rate of an old maid after a beau ! [Pants, out of breath.'] De Gran. Suppose somebody comes ? Jenny. Hide — \loolis around] in the chicken coop ! De Gran. A nice way to visit people in the country ! Jenny. Don't mind that. [Pushes him towards bench.] To- night I have no time to spare, but to-morrow I will let you know lots of things ; any how, make love to her and you'll see if she don't bite ! De Gran. She will not listen to me, in her eyes it would be a sin. Jenny. Tell her that sins so sweet are always forgiven. De Gran. Too late, Jenny, too late ! Jenny. Not at all, first love may fade, but never dies ! De Gran. And Mr. Shumann ? Jenny. Oh, don't let her marry him, she will soon repent it? De Gran. You think so ? Jenny. Already she has lost her gaiety ; she used to crack little jokes with me, my nonsense made her laugh, she loved to listen to my little songs of Ireland, now she is silent, I never see her bright smile and poor Jenny, her foster-sister, is nothing but her maid. [ Weeps.] De Gran. [Consoling.] There, there, poor little thing! How Ida has changed in so short a time ! ACT THIED. 63 [Aloud.] My presence is annoying to her, when she saw me in the parlor, a while ago, she fled Jenny. Blushing like a ripe tomato ! So much the better, a girl in love always acts like a goose ! — My, my, Mr. De Granville, they say the first woman went to the devirs school, surely the young men oi to-day need to come to ou s to learn sparking ! Be Gran. For ray part, I have succeeded very poorly. Jenny. No wonder, you are not pushing enough ! [Aside.] The same trouble with all of them ! De Gran. [Risiny, tries to yo totvards door, l.] My being here is indiscreet, I must leave ! Jenny. [Cry my and holdiny hini.'\ Do keep still, I tell you! De Gran. I will write to her. Jenny. Bosh! — There you are again with your soft ways! A letter never operates lilie a good, square hugging, don't you understand? \3Iahes him sit ayain.\ Stay there and think of her. \Stts near him.'] De Gran. I do, Jenny ! [2Ioon rises.] Jenny. That's right — Think what a nice young lady she is, in a beautiful ball dress, low necked and short sleeves, how glad you would be to give her a little squeeze, eh? De Gran. \_Ahstr actedly .] Ah Jenny ! [Music stops. \ Jenny. Well, behave now, like a good gentleman and I will go for her ! [Rises cautiously.] De Gran. [Aside.] And she can suppress her kindliest feelings ! [Looks up, thinkiny. ] Jenny. [Leaviny.] Yes, that's it, look up at the moon, it is like a big pancake, and it warms the heart ! [Retires backivard, watchiny De Granville.] De Gran. \_Aside.] But she can not suppress her remorse ! 64 THE GOLDEN CALF. Jenny. \l,eavmg.'\ Lookup! Lookup! \Exitr%mn\ng,'&.\ De Gran. Her love evaporated in the sun. of fortune, even in its very morning ! \Looh& towards the woods. - Starting iqy.'] A man! — If it is Mr. Delaware I am in a pretty predicament ! — Yet, if she is coming, I can not run away. [^Tries to hide behind a tree.] IJSnter Jackson, r.] [Loohing around une%silg.'\ Jaclc. \_Seeing De Granville.'] Hallo, my friend ; are you alone ? De Gran. Alone, sir, what do you want of me ? Jack. Miss Eosa told me that you were here and handled mighty roughly 1 De Gran. I do not understand you, sir. Jach. Don't be afraid, I know what you want, to succeed you will have to defeat the schemes of Shumann and Mrs. Delaware De Gran. Sir, in my presence, Mrs. Delaware's name must be respected ! Jach. Yes, that's all right. [Aside.'] Very Frenchy I \_Aloiid.'] Suppose I was to place in your hands, proofs that Miss Delaware is menaced with an awful misfortune aud you could save her, what would you do ? De Gran. Every thing in the world that can be done, I beg you tell me what it is. Jack. [Shotving papers.] Show these to Mr. Delaware, but return them to me, and, above all, promise not to reveal to anybody who procured them for you. Be Gran. I give you my word, come what may, I will be silent. Jaclc. [Giving 'pa^yers to De Granville.] Hurry, there is no time to lose. De Gran. \_Putting papers in pocket.] I will examine them ACT THIRD. 65 and make use of them if I judge it necessary to Miss Delaware's welfare. Jack. That's understood. \Jenn\j and Ida are seen approach- ing.'] . I see ladies approaching, I'm off ! {Exit.'] \_Low music heard in the distance.] {Enter Jenny and Ida, k.] \Jc7inij points towards Be Granville.] {Exit Jenny, k.] Ida. {Lool^ing timidly around.] It is I, Arthur. Before you leave New York, I wish to speak to you. {Patise.] Yes- terday, when I returned to consciousness, I left you bruskly, bidding you forget me ; all my conduct must seem strange ; I hoped your generosity would prevent your believing me unfaithful. {As Be Granville turns his head away.] Arthur, look in my face, see how sincere are my words ! I swear I am not guilty, do you hear, Arthur, I swear ! Be Gran. {After a pause ] Why, then, do you seek to justify yourself ? Ida. You suffer and I long to make you happy ! De Gran. Happy ! — Are you not going to marry ? Ida. Do not question me ! {Aside^ Can I avow to him that my father lied to me, that he sold me, that I mus* prostitute my heart to redeem his crimes ! horror ! {Aloud.] Arthur, I beseech you have faith in m«, I want your esteem, your aff'ection ! Be Gran. My affection ! What cruel irony ! Ida. Irony ! — 0, my friend, see my tears, they are scalding, bitter tears ! {-Weeps Utterly. — After a pause draws him towards her and leans tenderly on his shoulder.] Tell me, may there not exist between us a pure intimacy, which will permit us to live near each other, under the same roof, for soon I will ask him and my father to bring you back to New York as their partner 66 THE GOLDEN GALE. Be Gran. Fortune in excliange for your hand ! 0, do not insult my poverty ! Ida. I, insult you ! I am at your feet ; my very presence here is, already, a fault! \_Aude7\ And an avowal of my suffering would make me criminf^l ! [Aloud.} 0, Arthur, have pit}' on me ! De Gran. {Panne ^ Have you any for me, strange being ! Yesterday, insensible in my arms, I covered you with carresses, T watched you eagerly to catch from your lips a word of love, a breath of happiness ; but you, marble hearted, your conscience alone spoke ; at your awaking, you were already strong enough to repress impulse, and leave me without an allusion to our past ! To-day, I find you radiant in the midst of a gay festi- val ! What species of woman are you? Ida. An unhappy one who implores your compassion! [ Weeps.} Be Gran. {Pause.} Yes, Ida, I do pity you, for I see that to escape a misalliance, as your father said, by marrying into poverty, yoil immolate your heart on the altar of the " The Golden Calf " ! {Paim^ Poor Ida ! Alone in the gilded crowd, that arid desert, you will flee even the thought of him whom you ought to desire; mazed, without a soul to speak the language of yours, with senses confused, thirsting for calm and repose, where will you find a refuge ? The felicity of others, the love song of youth, all its pure delights will reproach your fault ! — In the solitude '? The sweetest voices of nature, the trill of the bird, the melodies of the breeze, will be for you only the mournful echo of your own sighs ! — And if the pleasures of the world blotted out remembrance of me, oh, Ida ! it would be at the cost of your innocence, of your beauty ! {Pause — As though ACT THIED. 67 dismissinj a iminful thouffld.] No, no! soon, poor wounded dove, you will drop from branch to branch into the abyss of indifference, dead to the joys of love, to the true happiness of earth ! Ida. \Taldng his hand.] Arthur, do not leave me ! De Gran. Do you remember our visions of the future ? How bright seemed the days to come ! We never thought of gold, we preferred work to the enervating voluptuousness of wealth ; your look, your smile, created in my imagination divine ideals, treasures for my pen> and you felt here [places Ida's hand on his heart] that you were sovereign. [Fausc.] All this was, to you, biit idle illusion, meaningless dust, which you easily shook off to throw yourself into the arms of a man you did not love I [Pushes her hand aivay.] Ida. [Catching his hand.] Have mercy, Arthur! De Gran. No, You do not love him, your trembling hand presses mine convulsively! [Talces Ida in his arms.] Come back, then, to the heart you have disdained, here you will find repose, you will feel at home ! [Presses Ida to his breast.] You see you. love me still, your whole being shivers, palpitates in my arms ! [Enter Shumann, e. Hides behind tree.] Ida. [Tries to release herself.] Leave me, go, go ! De Gran. No, I am your lover ! Ah, do you not love me, Ida, say? [Kisses her.] [Shuina?tn fires pistol and rtms off, u. Ida places herself before Be Granville, as though to frotect him tvith her body.] De Gran. [looking into the woods.] What is it? Ida. [Faintly.] Fly, fly ! Somebody will come ! De Gran. You cannot go through the woods alone, I re- main ! [Looks anxiously at Ida, who seems about to fall.] Ida ! — Blood ! [Supports Ida.] Help ! — Help ! 68 THE GOLDEN CALF. [Low music from orchestra until end of act. ^^ \^Enter SnuiiANiir, e. — Gun in hand.'] Shumajin. [Malcing sign to those following him.^ This "way, there he is, there he is ! \^Enter Me. and Mes- Delawaee, De. and Mks. Mayfield, E.OSA, Jenny, Chaeley, Pohpey with lautertis — Guests, ■r.'] Del. [Placing apistol against De Granville's forehead.] Is it you, wretch ? Ida. Stop, stop, oh, father ! [Del. drags Ida from De Gran- ville's arms, takes him hy the throat, again points pistol at him — Eosa, Doctor and Mrs. May field interpose between them — Ida drops to the ground — Rosa, Mrs. Mayfield, all the servants and guests surround her — Mrs. Del. and Shumann converse apart. ] Dr. May. I answer for his innocence, Mr. Delaware. [Pause — Goes to Ida.] Rosa. [To Del., leaving Ida.] At last the blood of the vic- tim flows ! Is your divinity not yet satiated, do you now want to commit a murder ! [Snatches pistol from his hand a7id throws it away.] lllstarred brother ! [Pointing to Shumann and Mrs. Del.] There are the guilty ones ! [Goes to Ida.] [Del. points De Granville imperiously to door.] Ida. Arthur! Arthur! Del. [Apart to De Granville, who tries to go to Ida, and- pushing him towarh door.] Leave, miscreant, or I will have you turned out ! Shumann. [Apart to De Granville ] Insolent coward go, or I will have you arrested ! {Enter Charley and Pohpey, e.] [Carrying a litter on juhich Ida is placed ivith great care, all helping except Del., Mrs Del. aud Shumann.] Del. [A])art to De Granville, pushing him out of door .] Go cur, do you hear me ! ACT THIRD. 69 yExit De Geanville, l. JDel. pushes door bndaUi/.] hur ! Arthur ! 3frs. Del. [Apart to Shiimann.'] What an awkward creature you are Shamann. [Apart to 3Irs. JJel.] I am in despair ! [Apart to Del.] My marriage will have to be put off! Bel. [Apart to Slminajin.'] Not for long; you shall lose nothing by it ! [ While Shuma7in, Delaicarc and Mrs. Del. converse, Charley and Pompeij raise Utter very carefully — Ladies take flowers from hair and dress and lay them on Ida'' s feet.] [Calcium light tiieown giudually on Ida. J Dr. May. [To Pompey and Charley carrying away Ida very slowly.] Steady ! Steady ! [All follow with deep sadness, except Del., 3Irs. Del. and Shumann who converse while leaving the stage.] Ida. [In fainting voice.] Arthur! Rosa. Hope, hope, Ida ! Behold the aurora of brighter days ! Tableau. CUETAIN. [ When curtain rises secoiid time, De Granville breaks open door (l) and watches Ida disappearing in the woods — Goes towards her, then drops on bench in attitude of deep sorrow.] Cdetain. % ACT FOURTH. Two weeks are supposed to have elapsed between the third and fourth act. Scene: — A ricldij furnished parlor in Delaware 8 house. — {New York.) — Sofas, talks, fanoply on wall, statues, vases of flowers, etc. — Doors: two C — 07ie L — one R. [Enter 'Ros.s.andM.'RS. Mayfield, c] [Rosa unfolding a paper.'] Rosa. [Coming down ivith Mrs. Mayfield.'] At last I have written proof of her guilt ! 3frs. May. Is it possible ! Rosa. Having overheard them appointing a rendez-vous at Philadelphia, I had them followed by two detectives, [giving paper to Mrs. May.,] this is their affidavit ! Mrs. May. [Reading.] Infamous ! What a disgrace ! Rosa. [Talcing bach loaper.] Let us show it to Ida Mrs. May. No, the Doctor recommends her to avoid vio- lent emotion and it is better not to expose such a docu- ACT FOUETH. 71 ment before a young girl, it is painful enough, to show it to her father. Rosa. Must I confess I have not the courage to plunge this tnife into his heart ! 3Irs. May. Men really love only the woman they respect ! [^Starting ] But Mr. De Granville will consider it a duty to save your niece Rosa. Brother has just sent for him ! Mrs. Ma)j. For Mr. De Granville ! — In fact, I remember when I reproached Mr. Delaware for his unkindness, he told me he would like to see him and apologize. Rosa. Merely for form. 3Irs. May. However, be sure and tell Mr. De Granville to use this only as a last resort Rosa. {Enclosing affidavit in an envelo-pe which she takes out of desk.] Jenny shall give it to him to read before enter- ing the parlor. \_Exit Rosa, c] {Ejxtcr Ida, r.] [ Walking slowly as though in pain. \ Ida. Naughty, always making yourself longed for ! [ They emir ace.'] 3Irs. May. I was coming to your chamber ; I have so much to tell you ! Ida. [Reclining on sofa while 3Irs. May. takes a chair beside her.] Is his drama a success, was it well received ? Jlrs. 3Iay. A complete victory ; the theatre was crowded by a brilliant audience, the four acts were listened to with deep interest and applauded franticly ! Ida. Florence, how happy I should have been to witness the recognition of his talent in America ! Tell him that his triumph is all my happine.ss ! No, do not say that, I have no right to think of him ! 3Irs. May. I'll say nothing, for I have repeated all this often, he knows it by heart. 72 THE GOLDEN CALF. Ida. "Why encourage illusions wliich must soon vanish, for- ever. Mrs. May. Now do not scold ; he asl:s about vou and I answer ; I must confess, though, that I acquainted him •with the cause of vour engagement to Mr. Shumann — Ida. \Alarmed.'\ You told Mr. De Granville that 1 be- lieved him dead, that I marry to please father ? Mrs. May. "Would you prefer he should think you do so to increase your weakh ? Ida. No, but what did he .say ? Mrs. May. He will tell you himself in a few minutes. Ida \Slarling.'\ Mr. De Granville coming hero ? Mrs. May. And in state, invited by your father. Ida. By father ! Mrs. May. Are you sorry ? Ida. I am in a rather singular toilette ! {^Arranges dress.'\ Mrs. May 0, that's the trouble. \Aside^^ This is prom- ising ! Ida. \^Arrangxny her toilette.'] I am in the parlor, merely, by chance — Mrs. May. [Laughs aside — Aloud.'] Of course you are ! \ Aside.] Love trying to cheat conscience ! Ida. [Timidly and arranging her hair.] If I only had a ribbon, a llower — Mrs. May. [Runriing toicards dear, n.] "Wait, wait! Ida. Make haste, dear ! Bring a looking-glass. [Arran- ges herself.] Mrs. May. [Near door.] A looking glass. [Laughing., aside.] Love wins ! [Exit., e.] Ida. May I yet hope to be his wife ! Does father s busi- ness begin to brighten and his conscience to speak? Painful suspense. [Pause.] He will find me greatly changed I I wish I was beautiful ! ACT FOUETH. 73 \^Enter Mks. Mayfield and Rosa, k.J [JTfs. May field carries a hox full of laces, ribbons, etc., — Bosa carries mirror, box of powder.] Mrs. May. There is the box of mischief ; woman's arsenal. \Puts lace box on chair near Ida.] Rosa. Enough here to soften the toughest bachelor heart. [Puts mirror and box of powder on chair.] Ida. [As Rosa imcovers her shoulders.] Oh ! Rosa. Men think we never hide anything we dare show. Mrs. May. [To Rosa, placiny a lace scarf around Ida's shoulders ] Mystery makes woman's power. Rosa. [To Mrs. Mayfidd, powderiny Ida's shoulders.] It is our duty to aid nature. [Mrs. Mayfield arranyes Ida's toilette. — Ida looks at herself in mirror. — Rosa takes ribbons from the box, offering them to Mrs. May.] Red and green, fire and hope ! Mrs. May. [To Rosa, tying a blue ribbon in Ida's hair.] Blue, fidelity ! Rosa. [Placing a black patch near Ida's mouth.] Now the ticklish mole ! Ida. [Alarmed, looking at herself in mirror.] no, that's too full of meaning ! Mrs. May. [Placiny on Ida's neck a velvet with diamond cross attached.] Take courage, as soon as he enters, it will stick on the end of his nose Ida. [Alarmed.] 0, he will know the cross he gave me ! No, I ought to part with it, I give it to you. Mrs. May. Impossible, the Doctor says, in dull times, diamonds are very injurious to a wife's health. [Ida lauyhs.] . Rosa. Just like Timothy ! [Aside.] Who loves me always as simple as nature ! [Exit, e, carry iny off box of powder.] Ida. [In abstracted tone, looking at herself in the mirror, while 74 THE GOLDEN CALF. Mrs. May. takes a camelia from her hclt.'] "Well, on that consideration O what's this now ? 3Irs. Mai/. {Mockhighj and -placincj camelia on Ida''s corsage.'] my, my ! Only a flower he asked me to place near your bed to keep you company. {^Arranges flower.^ Ida. Dear Arthur ! 3Irs. May. But as you are up, I put it there. \_Looh vt the effect.'] Ida. I don't know what to think of myself, this cross, this flower, this mole ! \_Loohs at herself in viirror.] Mrs. May. Are very becoming to you. \_Futling things in basket.] Ho will endorse me. Ida. [Looking at herself in glass.] Do you think so ? \_Ei4er Rosa, c] Rosa. \_Apart to 3Irs. May field.] My brother has ordered Jenny to show him up stairs, but Mrs. May. You told her to bring him Rosa. Eight here ! Mrs. 3fay. A good chat with him may change her mind and Mr. Delaware can wait Rosa, Until they are through ! [Lnter Jenny, c] [Mrs. May field atid Rosa exeunt hastily, carrying of basket and mirror ] Jenny. [To I)e Granville, before he enters.] Please take a seat. [Enter De Qkanville, c] [Finishing her phrase in low voice.] And your time ! [Exit c, laughing aside.] [Ida goes toivards De Granville.] De Gran. Take care, you are not strong yet ! Ida. [Leading him towards sofa ] I am better, much better ! [Sits on sofa.] ACT FOUETH. 75 De Gran. My presence must surprise you. \SiU near sofa.\ Ida. No, father asked you to come and see him. De Gran You know it ! Do you know why ? Ida. [Inquirhif/Ii/.j No ? J)e Gran. No wonder. [Astde.} It is humiliating for him to acknowledge that he was forcing on her, as a husband, a low villain Ida. '\Timidhj.'] And you, do you know why ! De Gran. I do. [^Aside.'] I can not expose her father's shame ! Ida. ITimidhj.] Will you tell me ^ Be Gran. Your father will be here, presently, and he will explain. Ida. [Aside^ impatienthj .] Mute as a fish. [Alotid.] Perhaps he desires to felicitate you on your drama ? De Gran. \_Lau{jlung.'] 0, better than that ! Ida. Better still ! And yet that is a success. De Gran. A half one only, you were not there. Ida. {^With anger.'] Do nol regret it! \_Controling her im- patience.'] As I have never been for you, but a cause of suflfering. De Gran. Which you have nobly shared ; besides happi- ness is always accompanied by some trouble, like a pretty coquette by an ugly woman, for the sake of con- trast. \_Iaiighs.] Ida. You are very gay to day. De Gran. Why not, when I see that you no longer fear to wear, [points to cross on Ida''s neck,] that Souvenir. [Aside.] Decidedly, I am gaining ground ! Ida. [Confusedly.] Mrs. Mayfield put it on me — De Gran. By force, of course, and the camelia — Ida. I did know that — De Gran. [Carressing Ida.] It came from me — You blush • 76 THE GOLDEN CALF. Where are the days when my carresses seemed natural ! Ida. \_Confusedlij .'] Then we were about to be married. De Gran. And now — \ Pause.] Ida. Our situation is — [Pause.l De Gran. {Putting arm around her ivaist ] Just the same ! Ida. [^Starting pushing him off.'\ Eh ! — what do you say ? De Gran. Yes, my darling, we are on the eve of marriage, here is the proof. \_Kisses her."] Ida, 0, Mr. De Granville ! De Gran. This can not harm you ! Ida. [Pushing htm off.'] No, no explain ! De Gran. Easily : when papa sent for me, not being ac- customed to such kindness, I ran to Dr. Mayfield to announce the good news and he told me he had just received a letter from Europe, the contents of which he could only impart to your aunt, but which cuts Shumann off arms and legs. [Laughs.'] Ida. [Thinking.] Arms and legs ! De Gran. He advised me, if this news caused you any pain to administer twenty soothing drops in this form. [Ksscs her.] Ida. [Pushing him off.] pray, don't, Mr. De Granville ! De Gran. It is the physician's prescription. [Laughs.] Ida. Mr. Shumann shall not be treated so ! De Gran. Why, this is nothing! I have already thrown an enormous stone at him, which your father no »y has, to it I owe the pleasure of this moment, and more, Jenny has just given me an instrument with which I am going to cut off his head ! Ida. [IhinJcing.] His head 1 De Gran. His head. [^Laughs.] Ida. [Aside.] What is going on unknown to me, can aunt's suspicions have any foundation ! [Aloud., referring to her incertitude.] This is horrible ! ACT FOURTH. 77 De Gran. [^Refcrring to Shummms situation.'] Horrible, and I admit tliat after Dr. Majfield's surgical operations and mine, Mr. 81iumann will be so reduced, that he will not make a husband at all presentable. \_Laughs, carressing Ida.] Ida. {^Pushing him off.] What do you mean '? — You forget I am engaged ! De Gran. To me first, and long ago ; where would be the advantage of the long engagements, a la mode Americaine, if they did not permit some little discount. yLaughs.] Ida. For pity's sake why do you jest? De Gran. Because your father himself will soon place this dear little hand iu mine. Ida. impossible! [Timidly.] Are you sure ? J)e Gran. [Pointing to his pocket.] I have, here, more than sufficient causes to be sure of what I say. [Puts arm around her tvaist.] If I do not show them to you, it is to spare your beautiful eyes the sad revelations they con- tain. Ida. Never mind, I want to see them, I ought to ! [Enter Delaware, c] [While Be Gran, has his arm around Ida's waist. Del. stops at door loohng at them angrilg. — They do not see him.] De Gran. [To Ida, putting hand to his pocket.] If you insist — Ida. [Seeing her father and rising.] Fathei' ! [Be Granville rises also.] Bel. [Coming doivn, with anger.] Ida, it is ridiculous to re- main so long iu the parlor, the first time you have left your chamber ! Ida. I fell well, very well, papa. Bel. [Angrily to Ida.] Go to your room, I desire it, I com- mand it ! [Ida and Be Granville look at each other with con- sternation ] [Exit Ida, k, weeping.'] [Aside.] Curse him, 78 THE GOLDEN GALE. he must have told her all ! \_Pause, aloud.'] I thank you, sir, for responding to my request after the regretable events which have passed between us. [Ptcshes chair to De Granville who accepU it ] De Gran. To Miss Delaware's father I owe regard and can forgive much. Del. I wish to speak respecting the papers which you sent and of which, doubtless, you have already informed my daughter. Be Gran. I did not think it requisite. Del. {Aside.] That relieves me. [Aloud.] The check is acquitted, consequently done with ; as to the note signed by Mr. Shumann, instead of being against him De Gran. Sir, you do not understand that There is nothing wrong in this, you say ? Del. Nothing ; I regret that Mrs, Delaware accepts so great an amount for her charitable donations, but it proves that after his marriage, Mr. Shumann will have means and this is certainly a good recommendation. However, as these papers are my wife's property, I have the right to ask you how you obtained them. De Gran. I can not reply to that question, sir. Del [Aside.] Strange ! [Aloud.] Your silence then author- izes me to make any supposition. [Rises.] De Gran. [Rising.] You forget, sir, I am under your roof and by your invitation ! — I beg again you will re- turn me the documents. Del. What do you wish to do with them ? De Gran. To submit them to Miss Ida and Del. To my daughter ? Never ! [Puts papers in pocket.] , De Gran. [Aside. | I must strike harder, useless to spare him! [Aloud, giving a paper.] Please read this. Del. [Talcing papter. aside. \ What now? [Reading ^vith stupor, ACT FOURTH. 79 aside '\ My wife is deceiving me ! \_Pause^ And I never refused her money ! [ With resignation.'] Shumann takes advantage of my position with his father ! \_Pause.'\ He dares to marry my child ! — And I give her over to such a scamp ! — 0, I can not ! Be Gran. \_Aside.'] This time the blow has taken effect. Del. l^Aside.'] But then, I am ruined, poor, despised ! No, no! \_Pause. extending hand to De Granville.'] Do me a service De Gran. \_Taking his hand warmly.] What, to vindicate your honor ? Speak, I will ! • Del. ICon/identiallg.] Let us keep this secret! De Gran. \_Starting ] And it would not suffocate you ! I refuse ! Del. [Pause, raises his arm as if to strike De Granville, who looks at him sadly, hut unmoved.] How cruel you are to bring on me such sorrow ! De Gran. I would give my life to spare you it, but Ida's welfare exacts the truth, I must be inexorable ! Del. Her welfare ? Why, I am her father ! De Gran. And I her lover ! — She only marries Mr. Shu- mann because believing me dead she contracted her en- gagement and considers herself bound to fulfill it ; she hopes also to save your fortune, your name, by her filial devotion ; were I the only victim, I should not be here torturing her father's heart ; yet some day, you too, may bless me ! [Turns to leave.] Del. Stay, help me to find some issue out of the trying position you have placed me in. De Gran. I shall be too glad to comfort you Del. [Lowering voice.] Your marriage with my daughter, by ruining me, will bring shame on her; will you not then make a sacrifice in her behalf? 80 THE GOLDEN CALF. De Gran. \fitarting.'\ Renounce lier? [Prt«S(?.] The one Ida is about to marry will make her miserable ! Del. [Cojifi dent fall y.'] At fii'st, but wealth by making her powerful, will breed vanity which soon stifles all other feeling; ambition to outvie in luxury, the brilliance of beauty, the goad of rivality will deaden the heart; her husband will be nothing but a name and whatever may be her private conduct, society dazzled will close its eyes and prostrate itself before her golden aureola ! De Gran. \^Afside.'] Wretched man ! {_Aloud.'] And such a pi'ospect for your child does not terrify you ? Del. My young friend, it is a consequence of Ida's position ; we must be either rich or poor in this world, and man's first duty is to make a fortune De Gran. Honorably, at least ! Del. Legally ! — Therefore I oiler you De Gran. Useless sir, useless ! [Pause.'] My mission is ended, I have opened your eyes to the truth, I, now, leave you with your conscience ! \_Turns to leave.'] Del. [Alarmed, detaining him.] Well, what are you going to do? De Gran. My duty ! [Retires regretfully towards door., c. — Stands at door, looking sadly at Delaware.] [Loiv music from orchestra until Rosa enters.] Del. [Aside.] His duty ! — I, also, will do mine while I yet have courage ! [Takes poignard from panoply to strike him- self — De Granville rushes forivard and catches his arm.] De Gran. What ! kill yourself while there are still hearts that cherish you ! [Del. drops on armchair in attitude of stupor.] Poor father, take courage, live for love ! In- stead of speculating on the misfortunes of people, pro- tect art, encourage industry, aid the workingmen, live to serve your country ! ACT FOURTH. 81 Bel. My country ! It is corrupt to the back-bone, I wish I could leave it, I am ashamed of it ! Be Gran. \ Starting .'] Stay, do not blaspheme the name of your country ! The evil which oppresses you to-day is only the ordinary disorder of a hurrying crowd ; repose yourself, take breath, there is before you infinite space and liberty ! Americans, fortunate people, against whom no tradition raises its barrier, may the sacred pride of patriotism inflame you, open your hearts to the noble examples of your heroes, to the sublimity of nature surrounding you ; and the land of great streams, bound- less lakes and plains, the land of AVashington will soon become, again, a land of giants! [Pause, De Granville watching the effect of his appeal on Belaware.] \_Enter Rosa, c] [Goes towards Bel. to give him a 2}(iper.'\ Del. [To Rosa, ivith rage.'} Let me alone, you crazy crea- ture ! [ JFalks agitatedly.'] Rosa. [Giving paper to De Gran.'] I just received this from Dr. Mayfield ! [Signs to Be Granville to read.] [JExit, l j De Gran. [To Bel., after reading.] This is important to you, sir ! Del. [Reads and suddenly looks with stupor at paper. — Catches Be Granville hy the hand.] What is this ! [Friglitened, throws paper on table.] Do my eyes deceive me ! [Pause.] I am mad ! — No, no ! [Pause, drags Bu Granville towards table. — Pointing to paper.] Read, read aloud! De Gran. [Reading.] " Mr. Shumann, as also other ban- " kers of Germany, has been arrested for subscribing, " secretly, immense sums to the French war loan."* ■ Imprisonment of German Bankers for subscribing to the French loan. Berhn, January 4tb, 1871. 82 THE GOLDEN CALF. Bel. I read truly then ! — traitor ! — monstrous ! He advised me to sell that he might buy from me ! I have paid him enormous difi'erenees on fictitious accounts I — Oh! [Walks about agitatedly tvithoui noticing De Granville.'] De Gran. You have no farther need of me, sir? Del. [ JF/th ahdracled air.] No, no ! [ Walks alaut agitatedly .] For months he has been ruining me, oh ! \Sto2)s to read dispatch over.] De Gran. [Aside.] Wife, child, country are nothing to him, cold, living corpse ! [ Goes towards door, turning back several times, looks sadly towards Delaware.] [Exit, c] Del. I will make them pay me back to the last cent ! [Falls panting into armchair.] [Enter Eosa, l.] [ Cautiously advances towards Del.] Del. [Aside.] This is an atrocious plot ! [To Rosa.] I will have his son arrested the moment he again puts foot in New York ! Rosa. The order is already gipen. Del. Good ! [ With rage.] As for her [ Walks about ag- itatedly.] Rosa. I hope you will, at last, procure a divorce Del. Indeed it is time ! [Patise.] However, not being able, now, to draw upon their house, I shall have to borrow from you Rosa. Take all I have, only get rid of them ! Del [ Writing.] " Sell Miss Eosa's bonds and dispose of the amount." [Rising, to Rosa.] Approve this ! [Rings.] Rosa. [Sits to write.] Not for long, as I am on the eve of changing my name Del. [In abstracted tone.] When you like. [Eosa signs.] { Enter Ch.\klet, c] Del. [To Charley.] Carry this to the office. [Gives him ACT FOUETH. 83 letter.'] \_Exit Charley, c.j What an infernal conspiracy! My blood boils in my veins ! I choko with, rage ! [Exit, c] Rosa. Ha, ha, ha, ha ! — What a smash up ! — Ha, ha ha, ha! [Enter Jackson, c] [Looks at her in surprise, while she lau(/hs.] Jackson. [Coming down.'] She has been stung by the tar- antula ! Rosa. [Lrmghinj, throws herself into his arms.] All the Shu- manns are in jail ! Ah, ah, ah, ah ! And before long she will be turned out ! [Thei/ laugh heartily.] Let us be married now, on the sly, eh ? [_They laugh heartily.] Jack. [With meaning.] In a hurry ! [They laugh.] Rosa. Like little culprits ! [They laugh.] Jack. And we'll go right off to Europe. [They laugh.] Rosa. To Cythera, on our wedding tour ! [ They laugh and embrace.] Jack. [Aside.] Or I'll be a cashiered cashier ! [Trys to laugh.] Rosa. [Laughing.] We'll live on the fat of the land ! [They laugh with delight.] When my brother returns my fortune ! [She laughs alone.] Jack. [Starts, alarmed.] Is it in his hands ? Rosa. For a while. [Jack, turns to leave, Rosa, alarmed, holds him by his coat.] Stop, stop 1 Jack. [Trying to disengage himself.] I can't ! [Aside.] The old trooper, she has the best of me ! Rosa. [ Weepimj and holding Jack.] Your earnings will be enough [ Weejys.] Jack. [Trying to go.] For a canary bird ! Rosa. [ Weeping.] I'll keep a boarding house ! Jack. That only pays for gay widows ! Rosa. We will be economical ! [ Weeps.] 84 THE GOLDEN CALF. Jach. A decent wedding would swallow half a year of my salary ! Rosa. \_Excitedhj, taking a newspaper from table.'] Here is a minister who advertises cheap ceremonies. [Eeadiuff ] " Divorces obtained." \_With disgust.] Ugh! Jaoh. [^Aside.] Not yet ! Rosa. \_Starting ] Ah ! \^Reading.] " Marriage made easy "at popular prices, — Address, Eeverend Post Office." Jach. Humbug, I'm off for the Black Hills! {Tarns to leave.] Rosa. \_Weeping and holding him hy his coat.] I'll go with you. JacJc. To be scalped ? Rosa. Scalped ! Jack. Bald as a turnip ! Rosa. \_Solhing ] What a crown for a faithful maiden ! {Weeps.] . Jack. Then get your money from your brother ! Rosa._ [ Weeping ] I will, right away 1 Jack. And let me see it Rosa. [ With meaning.] In my chamber ! — Business between an almost bride and groom should be private ! Jack. [Aside.] I better go for a passport to Havana, in case of need, no extradition law there ! {Aloud, going tip stage ivith Rosa, in totie of restrained anger.] Good bye, sweet heart ! {Uxit, c] Rosa. {Throwing him a kiss.] Good bye ! {Near door.] Slipping through my fingers for the second time! [ Coming down.] Almost a breach of promise case ! {Sits preparing to write.] Men can not be relied upon, they must be taken by surprise ! — Ah, Mrs. Potipha I understand you now! {Writing.] "Eeverend sir, your services are anxiously solicited at No. Madison avenue. {Rings the hell.] Blessed man! {Writes address.] ACT FOUETH. 85 \^Enter Pompey c] Rosa. {Giving h'm disjjatch.'] Fly, fly ! [Pompei/ runs to door, c] Pompey. [Stops at door.] To the Post Office ? jRosa. [ With rage ] No, telegraph ! [Exit Pompet, run- ning, c] Now for my money and my travelling suit ! [Exit running, l.] [Eyiter Ida and Delaware, k.] [They converse, promenading slowly.'] Ida. If Mr. Shumann, like his father, has abused your confidence, I must certainly consider my engagement with him broken. Bel. Then accept one of the young men I mentioned to 3'ou, they are rich and I know their families intimately, but the only thing certain about Mr. De Granville is his utter poverty. Ida. The man we love is always rich enough. You will soon judge him better and realize that his entrance into our family will be the signal of a new life • Del. Ta-ta ta — A young girl's romance! He simply counts on you or me to make a fortune Ida. [Reproachfully.'] father! he counts on my ten- derness to sustain, to console him in the hour of trial, to develope his talent by encouraging his labors which I would protect, [with humility,] as the fragile leaf pro- tects the fruit. Del. You forget that with him your fortune is indispensi- ble ; his position would make it impossible for you to assist your father as your aunt has just set you the good example [Enter Eosa, l.] [In travelling suit.] Rosa. [Excitedly.] I vvant my money, I must have my money 86 THE GOLDEN CALF. Del. [Twming his hack, walks alout agitatedly.] It is gone ! [/f/rt sits on sofa thinkinrj.] Rosa. [Follotving Del.] I need it, I must have it ! Del. [Angrily.] It is all gone to the last penny I tell you! Rosa. [Solhivg.] I am cheated, this is a robbery ! [Drops soblifig on sofa near Ida.'] Ida. [To Rosa.] Aunty, trust to me, I can help you before long. Rosa. Happily a monster may generate an angel ! [Kisses Ida.] Ida. [Apart to Rosa.] The evil removed all the traces will soon disappear! Rosa. A scar so deep defaces forever ! Del. \_8top2)ing near Ida.'] If you disregard my consent, count no more on my affection. \_Exit, c] Rosa. [Running after him.] Nor you on my money ! [Dxit, c] [Enter Delaware and Timothy, c] [Exit Ida, e,J Del. You wish to see me, sir ? Timothy. [Trcnibling and in preaching tone] As the advocate of my conscience — [Breaks down.] Del. Yes, I know ! [Aside.] This morning's dispatch will bring down on me all the lawyers of New York ! [Aloud.] Who sent for you, sir? [Tim. trembling, unable to speak, shotvs Rosa's telegram.] Rosa ! What she knows about my business ? Tim. In an agony of despair — [Breaks down.] Del. to the point ! [Sits and ivrites] Tim. During a night of raging tempest, all the seductions of hell — [Breaks doivn.] [Enter Sceapeall, c] [Out of breath, a large portefolio under his arm.] Scrapeall [Boioing profoundly.] Mr. Delaware, your most devoted servant ! ACT FOURTH. * 87 Del. [To Tim.] I do not need any lawyer, fortunately, leave sir ! [ TFrifes.] Scrap. [Placing himself ' etween Del. and Tim.] Fear nothing, Mr. Delaware, I am here and I would die, ten times, for you ! [Pushes Tim. toicards Rosa's room, l.] l>el. \_Aside.'\ There is that legal plague ! [Writes.] Scrap. [To Tim., pushing him.] Unprincipled pettyfogger ! Disgrace of the New York bar ! [Scrapeall pushes Timothi/ against the door of Rosa's room, l., . Timothy falls in, Scrapeall locks him in, giving him a kick.] Del. [Aside^ during the preceding. | What birds of prey these lawyeis are ! [ Writes.] Scrap. [^Coming to Del.] I come as an angel of peace [^Searches in 20ortefolio.] Del. [Aside.] He looks like one ! Scrap. To bring rest and comfort to the weary brain! [ Holds paper.] Mr. Shumann's son, \^Del. listens,] in behalf of his father, has confided to my honor a power of attorney which authorizes me to settle, with you, their account, so they beg you will accept these drafts to tlieir order ! Del. I accept nothing and iuvito you to retire. [ Writes.] Scrap. Mr. Delaware, believe me, it is with sadness I per- form this distressing obligation ! Del. That is to say, Shumann's sou, imagining that I am yet ignorant of his father's imprisonment for subscribing to the French loan, which he always advised me to sell, tries to get out of me as much as possible, before the news reaches me. ( Writes.] Scrap. [^Aside.] Too late ! I have lost fifty thousand dol- lars ! A few minutes sooner and I should have been an honorable capitalist ! Del. \Risi71g.] Instead of my being Mr. Shumann's debtor, he is mine. 88 THE GOLDEN CALF. Scrap, I feared this was the case, and I am seriously alarmed for the son's future. Bel. I'll keep your client safely locked up Scrap. Ten years, in state prison, for Del. Forgery! [Shows forged check.'] Scrap. I am discouraged with him ! Del. Unless you consent to Scrap. To help you ? As a brother, Mr. Delaware ! Del. Hurry up, cancel my account. \_ScrapeaIl signs.'] And leave your power of attorney. [Talcing paper from Scrape- aWs han ^s.] Is this all square ? Scrap. As a lawyer's conscience ! Del. [Gives moneg to ScrapealL] Now Shumann's son can go on farther to hang, I will order his release. [Sits to write. — Scrajjeall counts his moneg.] Scrap. not yet, Mr. Delaware, one hundred is not a fee for G. Wiggler Scrapeall, give me time to remunerate myself through the Shumanns ; honest men should always stand by each other ! Del. Pursue the case, then, on j'our own account. [ Writes.] Scrap. [Aside.] Heaven bo thanked ! To-morrow I will move on to Fifth avenue or I'll let Shumann die in jail! Del. [Givirtg pa2)er.] For my part I am through with them. [Throwing himself into chair.] And with you also ! Scrap. [Talcing portefolio and hat.] Permit me to retire under the delightful impression of this interview, which seals for ever my unlimited devotion. [Exit, c] Del. [Rising.] At last I breathe freely ! I owe the Shu- manns nothing now and this rids me of my greatest trouble. [Enter Mes. Delaware, c] [Del. holes at her menacinglg .] Mrs. Del. Well, dearest, I'm back again ! [Noticing DeVs ACT FOURTH. 89 attitude.'] What is the matter ? [^Del. extends paper to her ] An affidavit! [Aside.'] I have been followed! — [Del points to door ordering her to leave.] — Leave this house! \ Pause, looking at Del. ironicalli/.] Fool! Do you seek to intimidate me ? What have you to com- plain of, you my leader in vice ? Did you not help me to kill your first wife with grief? I was young, poor and already depraved, but you were old, rich and she had given you a child ! Has my lord, to-day, a heart sen- sitive to shame where before he never had anything but a cold dollar ! — I, leave this house? Indeed ! [Laughs.] A woman of my stamp is seldom taken unawares ; it is you and yours will leave, when I wish, for this house is mine ! Del. I JFith stupor ] Yours ! Mrs. Del. I bought it ! Del. [Approaching her furiously.] With what money ? 3Irs. Del. With yours ! [Pause.] As I have sold all the real estate ! [Looks at him defiantly.] Del. [Pause, overcome hy emotion and anger. — Recovering ] You sold my real estate ! Mrs. Del. Was it not in my name to defraud your credi- tors ? Del. [Aside.] My real estate, my last resource ! [Sits on chair near table, lays head on arms, weeping. — Rising suddenly and going furious towards 3Irs. Del,] I will take all from you! Mrs. Del. On what proof, what plea ? The deed of re-con- veyance? I burned it, as it was not recorded ! Del. [Patfse. — Aside.] I am trapped, tied ! [ IFeeps.] Mrs. Del. I, leave this house ! [Laughs.] When absorbed by your thirst for gold, you needed a brutish, facile love, you came to me, do not fear, I will keep you, until I am 90 THE GOLDEN CALF ready to fling you aside ! [Pause.'\ Your daughter's fortune, also, will escape you, as Sliumann's note is to my order ; you forgot it, idiot ! [ Pause, ehanging tone.'] I, who intended to give you the whole sum as a sur- prise ! [ Weeps. '\ Del. \_Timidly.] I could not divine the usage you meant to put it to . 3Irs. Del. [ Weeping.'} I would have made you rich after your ruin. I Wipes tears atvat/.] Del. [Wiping away tears.} I was too hasty, forgive me! [Aside. } horrible slavery ! 3Irs. Del. [Aside^^ There is no more question of my infi- delity. [Aloud, in carressing tone.} Why do you doubt me ? Del. [Extending hand.} Let us forget all about it. [Aside.} How shall I tell her that her lover is in prison '? 3Irs. Del. Yes, and take measures to av^oid the danger with which we are threatened by De Granville, who, now, has means to remain in New York if he chooses. Del. He gave me the affidavit Mrs. Del. [Starting.} De Grauville ! [Aside.} He had me followed in Philadelphia at Ida's suggestion! [Aloud.} I will be revenged. [Aside.} On him and on her ! Del. I had a conversation with Ida awhile ago, which as- sures me she does not yet know about it. [Mrs. Del. looks incredulous.} But she knows the Shumanns have deceived me. Mrs. Del. [Starts. — Aside.} He has found that out ! [Aloud, innocentlg.} They deceived you ? Del. [Tiniidhj.} I learned it through Doctor Mayfield. You know, the son, Fritz, is in prison Mrs. Del. [Angrily.} What imprudence ! Del. [Timidly.} My sister did it; but De Granville gave ACT FOUETH. 91 me these. [Shows papers ivhich she recorpiizes as hers, snatches them and reads eagerly.'] Mrs. Bel. [As choking ivith emotion.'] He gave you these! I>el. Refusing to tell how he obtained them. Mrs Bel [ J^^dh rage.] And my deeds, my diamonds, my bonds ! [Sohs loudlg.] -Del. Your deeds ! Your bonds ! Ilrs. Bel. The fortune I saved ! [Sohs loudlg.] Del. [Starting.] All in De Granville's hands ! Oh the scamp, oh ! [Walks cibout agitatedly.] Mrs. Del It is a put up job between your daughter and him. [Sols loudlg.] Del. Enter a complaint against him for burglary Mrs. Del. [Wiping awag tears.] He shall be arrested in- stantly, at any cost, that he may 'have no communication with Ida. [Lnperativelg .] Mr. Shumann must be her husband ! Del. [Sujyplicatinglg.] But return my money. Mrs. Del. All may yet be arranged by giving Ida to un- derstand that the news from Germany is of no import- ance to you. [Gives pajjers back to Del.] Del. I will, but for pity's sake look after De Granville ! 3Iis. Del. [lenderlg.] I go and leave you to repent, in- grate ! [Exit., c ] Bel. [Pause.] If he has already left the country ! [Sinks weeping into armchair.] Shumann, my wife, even Ida my child, all conspire against me ! [ Weeps ] [^osk peeps iyi cautiouslg, v..] Rosa. [Entering.] She is gone, I triumph ! [Looking at Del J Grief bows him down ; fortunately the remembrance of women like her passes away quickly, as a miasma which the faintest pure breeze dissipates ! [Aloud, in mild tone of stipplication.] Brother, do let me have my money ! 92 THE GOLDEN CALE. Del. Oh, let me be ! Can you believe De Granville ( Enter Charley, c] {Interrupting Delaware. ] Charley. Miss Eosa is waited for in her chamber. \_Exit, c] Eosa. [Starting, aside.] Timothy! The die is cast! [Aloii(l.'\ I must have my money now, or I will borrow. Del. [Eises and tval/a about imjxiiientlg.] Borrow, borrow! Hosa. [ Tf^ith rage and weeping.] On your account, at ten, at fifty, at a hundred per cent ! [Exit, l J Del. [ Wiping tears aivag.'] How young I am yet to give wa}' to sentimentality, to trust anything but the power of money, I, a business man ! and when skill, shrewd- ness, alone can save me ! [Pause.] I wtll question Ida and learn the whereabouts of her high toned French gentleman I [Goes towards door, b.] Hosa. [Screaming in her room.'] Fire ! Murder ! Help ! [Del. turns hack, all the servants rush in, c] \_L71ter Eosa, l.] [She dashes out of lier room frightened and holding her dress close aroimd her. — The door of her room is left wide open.] Rosa. [Pointing under her led.] A male under my virgin couch, oh ! [Enter Jackson, l.] [Holding Tim. bg the coat collar. — Tim.^s eyes are blackened, his hat smashed, he holds his carpet bag.] Del. [To Tim.] You again and in my sister's room I Who are you ? Timothy. [Trembling.] I am JacJc. A thief, of course ! Tim. [Looking in his bag.] Your lawyer [Breaks down, trembling.] Del. [Aside.] Oh, these lawyers ! Tim. [ Giving card to Del. — Finishes his phrase, pointing to Rosa''s room.] Locked me in ! ACT FOUETH. 93 I>el. ^Starts, reading card.} Reverend Timothy Knapp ! Jack. [With pluck.} Here I am ! [Aside.] In a tight fix ! Tim. Rosa, you remember your poor old Knapp who [ Whispers in Rosa's ear. ] Rosa. my heart! Del. [Angrily referring to Rosa's situation.] Rosa, what's the matter ? Rosa. A fulness ! Del. No, this is a scandal ! Which of the two is Rosa. [Between Tim. and Jack., looks at both smiling. — Taking the arm of each.] I don't know! [Tim and Jack, menace each other ] Del. [To Tim. and Jack.] Clear out both of you ! Rosa. [Weeping.] Have pity, brother, on your swooning sister ! Titn. [To Del., tremhling.] Permit me, first, to return [feels in his bag] the ten thousand I owe you ! [Presents moneg.] [Exit Jackson. — Running aivay, c. — Rosa nearly fainting, Jenny fans her.] Del. [To Tim.] Stay, stay my friend ! [To the servants, pointing to Jack.] Stop him, stop him ! [Exit running, c, with all the servants, after Jackson.] Jenny. Wake up. Miss Rosa, here is your Timothy. Rosa. [Sobbing.] The other was fatter ! Oh! Tim. [Sobbing.] But I am the genuine ! [Rosa and Tim. fall into each others arms.] Jenny. [Aside.] The poor old girl is badly ofi" ! [Enter Pompey c] [Brandishing a wig.] Pompey. Miss Rosa, look, look ! Rosa. [With rage.] You scalped him? — And his whiskers? Pompey. [Excitedly.] Forgot em ! [Runs off, c] Rosa. [To Tim.] Come after him, he was hunting on your grounds! [[Exeunt, c. l.] 94 THE GOLDEN CALF. [JiJnier Del out of breath. — Mrs. Del. — De Gkanville chained and in charge of two policemen, c. e. — All the servants foUoiv. — Jenny ivee])s.^ Mrs. Bel. \_To Del., pointing to De Granville.'] We have him ! [^ToJcnng.] Call Miss Ida! \_ExitZ-E^-sY,iveeping.] [Aside.'] The sight may kill her, but I am rich enough to do without her and gratify my hate ! 1st Police. [To Del.] This mau gave you papers which belong to Mrs. Delaware ? Del. He did. De Gran. I have sworn not to denounce the pei'son from whom I received them ! [All laugh, except the servants ] [Miter Ida r.] [^Low music, until entrance of Dr. Maxjfield.] Mrs. Del. [To Ida.] Girl, there is your lover ! Del. [To Ida. \ A common burglar ! Ida. [Screaming.] Ah ! — [She faints on sofa, all the servants surround her — De Granville tries to free himself to go to Ida. Policemen at a sign from Delaware, holds De Granville, mena- cing him with club — Del. and Mrs. Del. converse.] Jenny. She is dying ! Oh ! [Mrs. Del. and Del. go to look at Ida.] 3Irs. Del. [Aside.] My vengeance is complete, this is the pallor of death ! Del. [To Pompey.] Eun for Dr. Mayfield ! [Exit Pompey c] 1st Police. [To De Granville.] What have you done with the deeds ? Del. The bonds ? Mrs. Del. And my diamonds ? [De Granville without listening, looks totvards Ida, and tries to break awag. — 3Irs. Del. and Del converse with Policeman No.l.] ACT FOUETH. 95 [Miter Rosa, (out of breath.) c] Hosa. [Starts at seeing 3frs. Del.} You again! [To Bell Have you no blood in your veins ! [To 3frs. Del.} The Cashier of the Safe Deposit Co., is in jail, your deeds of property and bonds have been found on him, but as you have no right to my family property. I took out an injunction. Mrs. Del. Which will pi'ove useless ! Jenny. [Screaming with despair.'] Ah ! Rosa. [Running to Ida.'] Ida, my child ! [Enier Shumann, c, intoxicated] Shumann. [To 3Irs. Del.] Here you are ! [Tries to kick her, Police No. 1, interposes] You gave your husband back the forged check and Scrapeall made use of it to ruin me : never fear Ruth, I'll serve you in the same way — Mrs. Del. [To Policeman — pointing to Shumann.] Turn that man out of my house ! [Police No 1, tries to put Shu- mann out.] Shumann. [Holding on talk.] Hold on, hold on ! [To 3Irs. Del.] Your house ! [Lmighs.] [To Del] She has been deceiving you ever since she became your wife — 3Irs. Del. [To Police No. 1.] Put him out I tell you ! Del. [To Police No. 1.] No, let him speak ! Shumann. [To Del.] And for your own benefit ! [Searches in pocket.] There is my father s correspondence which proves that she was partner with us in your ruin ! [Mrs. Del. tries to snatch correspondence from Shumami's hand as Del. seizes it.] Keep that, Delaware, I do it to oblige you, be a man now ^nd pardon father as my mother is innocent ! Del. [To Mrs. Del.] My chains are broken ; leave, spirit of evil, I fear you no longer, go ! Rosa. [To 3Irs Del.] Forever, infernal harpy! 96 THE GOLDEN CALF. Jenny. [Screaming with despair.'] Her breath has stopped, oh ! [Rosa kneels near Ida. — De Gran, tries to hreak away.] 3Irs. Del. [To Del.] My venom will remain in your cor- rupt heart and poison with remorse the days of your old age ! Go bury your daughter and with her your last hope! [At a sign from Policeman No 1, exit Mks. Del. and Shtjmann, c, who staggirs after her threatening.] Police No. 1. [Whe7i leaving, to Police No. 2, pointing to De Granville.] Take that man to jail, he must have kept the diamonds for his share. [Exit, c] De Gran. [Resisting Policeman, who irys to pull him along.] Ida !— Ida ! Rosa. She breathes ! — She opens her eyes ! [All seem amazed. Rosa runs to Policeman implores him for De Granville. Del. goes to Ida.] De Gran. [Struggling to go to Ida.] Ida ! Ida. [Rises as awaking frotn a dream.] Who's voice is that ! — Arthur! [Rushes towards De Granville, falls at his feet, kisses his hands. — Rising, to Policeman.] Loosen these chains, they bruise the purest hands, I wish it, I order it ! Police. [To Ida, showing a paper to sign.] Not without five thousand dollars bail. Ida. [Falling at Del.'^s knees.] He gave his blood for me ! Rosa. [To Del] You have the sum in your pocket ! [Con- verses with police.] Del. How did he obtain those papers? [To Police.] He belongs to the same gang as the other Ida. [Starting up, with iiidignatwn.] father ! Del. Five thousand ! On what guarantee ? Ida. His honor! [To Police.] I give a million ? [Signs paper tvhile police takes handcufs off De Gran.] Del. A million ! Ida. As to-day I shall be Mrs. De Granville ! [De Gran, and Ida embrace.] ACT FOURTH. 97 [^Exit PorjCE No. 2, ivho meets Dr. May. in passage, tliey con- verse tojether.^ [JEnter Mes. Mayfield, c] [ While Ida and De Granville emir ace.'] Mrs. Maij. {To Ida.'\ Is that the way you are dying? Ida. He brought me back to life. Mrs. May. You see, the love cure never fails! \Comerses with Ida, Rosa, De Gran.'\ {Enter Dr. Mayfield, c] [Soldiry a newspaper.] Br. JIay. Hurrah, hurrah ! All. What is it. Dr. May. The National Assembly of France have voted the Bill of Indemnity for the victims of the war.* [Ida and De Gran, converse.] Del. [Aside] France must be made ol gold, what a great country ! Dr. May. {Shaking hands with De Gran.] Your property will be paid over to you, you are wealthy again, moti cher ! Bel. [Giving hand to Be Gran.] I felicitate you ; if you need my purse use it, although I still have debts De Gran. Which Ida desires to aid you in paying. Bel. [Starting.] And you consent to it ! At what rate, on what condition ? Hosa. {To Bel] On condition that you abjure your idol " The Golden Calf." * Bill of Indemnity passed by the National Assembly of France, August 8th, 1871. 98 THE GOLDEN CALF. Del. {Pause, weeping — Taking Ida tn his arms.] For the God of your mother ! Ida. [Holding iJe Gran, bg the hand.] The God of love - De Gran. [ While Bel puts an arm about him.] And of char- ily! Bel [Holding both tenderlg in his arms.] We will pray to- gether for my pardon ! Tableait. End. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 400 126 1 •