L^. f\7 y HolUnger Corp. pH8.5 -^' AN AMERICAN PASHA. gltt #noittal (Slomcay, IN THREE ^.OTS. By WILLIAM C REYNOLDS. (Revised by the Author.) Copyright, 1,881 ; 1883, by William C. Reynolds. .: ■■'■ ..A y '. ' ! I ^ 'w J >, ' ^-' *> ^ a AUTHOR'S COPY. From WM. C. REYNOLDS, 115 Monroe St.^ Chicago- CHICAGO : THE CHICAGO LKGAL NEWS CO., PRINTERS. 1883. ID ^a- -f^t^^ 1^^!1 :^\ '^ w(^ \ CHARACTERS. William Cortland, known as Arthur Sennett, An Officer of the Khedive's Army. (Light Comedy lead.) John Cortland, A Retired Merchant. (First 01 1 Man.) Clarence Lee, His Confidential Secretary. An adventurer. Frank Thorne, One of the gildedyouth of Gotham. (First Juvenile.) Puppendorp Fogg, Esq., Attorney at Law (Eccentric Comedy.) Jefferson, A colored Servant. Patience Cortland, A Lady of uncertain age. (First Old Woman.) Dora Cortland, Aged 18. (First Juvenile.) Caroline Ely, Dora's Cousin, aged 22. (Leading Lady.) SCENE. The Cortland Mansion, New York. Present Time. Act I. — In the Drawing Room. Act II. — In the Conservatory. Act III. — In the Library. (2) T.MP96-007135 A'N AMEEIOAI^ PASHA. ACT I. SCENE — Drawwg-Room, elegantly furmshed. Ornaments on man- tel, c. Over mantel, portrait of a beautiful tcontan. Doors, c. R. and L. Wide doorivaj/, 2 R. Windoics, 2 and 3 l., and cabinet between. Piano, 5r. Stands, with statuettes and flow- ers. Center table, sofa, chairs, etc. Dora, discovered u-riting. at center table, and Caroltke on sofa, L. front, reading a }tewspaper. Dora. 0, Carrie! do put aside that paper and help me with these tiresome invitations. Caroline. 1 will be happy to write them for yon, if you'll give me a list of the names. Dora. But that is just the difficulty. I can not decide whom to invite. We haven't had a party of any kind since dear Mamma died, and this old list is of scarcely any use to me. Car. Well, dear, I would be glad to assist you; but as I have been here only a few weeks, and have not half learned the mystery of New York society, "I hardly see my way clear," as Aunt Patience says. Dora [viracionsly). Isn't Aunt Patience the most absurd creature that was ever invented ? Car. My dear Dora, you ought not to speak so of our Aunt. She is a good, kind soul. Dora. Oh, yes! she is good enough, but she is so absurd. I be- lieve she is setting her cap for that ridiculous Mr. Fogg, who pulled her out of the river. Car. Aunt Patience? Dora. Yes, I've been watching her. I wish you had been with us when she tumbled off the ferry. You would have cried with laughing. Souse! she went, holding Fido in one hand, and an umbrella in the other. Then Mr. Fogg jumped in and grabbed her, and her chignon came off, and she was all dripping, and looked too ridiculous for anything. Car. And could you laugh when she was in such danger? Dora. Oh, not at first, of course; but she was pulled out right away; and then to hear her address that shabby attorney (who looked like a drowned rat), as "My brave deliverer," "My pre- server!" was just too funny. Car. Of course she would feel grateful to the poor man. (3) 4 AN AlIEEICAN TASIIA. Dora. But grratitude is not a continuing' sentiment, and Annt's feelings toward the "poor man " seem to grow wiirmer every day (writing). But I must not talk, or I'll never finish these invitations. What shall I do about the Higginbothams? Car. Are they the people whom Mrs. Camelshair compared to the measles, because everyone has them, sooner or later? DoKA. Yes, only they are worse than the measles, because, when you have had them once, you're sure to have them again. Car. Here is a paragraph about Maj. Sennett, whom Mr. Thorne promised to introduce to us. Dora. Read it, please. Car. (reading). " Major Arthur Sennett is at the "Windsor hotel. This distinguished officer was chief-ot-staff during Col. Goi don's campaigns in Egypt; and, more recently, exhibited hei-oic bravery at Alexandria and Tel el Keber. He enjoys the personal friendship and confidence of the Khedive, and his present visit is upon an important mission looking to the colonization of the high table lands in Upper Egypt." Dora. It would be nice to have such a man for one's lover or brother. Everybody one meets is so dreadfully common-place. Car. Have you never heard anything of your own brother, Dora? Dora. Not for ages. You know it is a dozen years since he ran away. Mamma never ceased to hope and pray for him, but Papa never speaks of him. It seems as thongh he had vanished forever. Enter Cortland, i,. u. CoRT. My dear, have you seen Mr Lee this morning? Dora. No, Papa. CoRT. Let me know as soon as he comes in. I am anxious to con- fer with him. Dora. Yes, Papa. (Cort. ttirns to go.) Don't go away just yet. I shall go shoppmg presently, and you must please give me some money. CoRT. But you can draw a check for yourself, my dear. Doha ( jumping lip). This doesn't come out of n;y allowance. It is an assessment for the party — " campaign expenses," as Frank calls them. Cort. And how much of an assessment does my little girl levy, this time? Dora. Well, Papa, I will make it easy for you. It shall be paya- ble in installments, like the calls on your horrid mining stocks, and such things. Three hundred dollars will be enough for to-day. Cort. That is a considerable sum. At your age I hadn't so much money in the world. Dora. At my age yon didn't have any daughter, either. Now, that you have me, and plenty of money besides, you ought to be thankful. Cort. (caressing her). And what will you buy to-day? Dora. Lots of pretty things. Cort. What, for example? Dora. How can I tell, until I look around ? Carrie will help me, you know. Cort. Well, dear, you shall have the money. Send Mr. Lee to me when he comes in. Exit, li. u. Dora (resuming writing). Carrie, will you tell me somtthing? Car. Yes, if I can. Dora. Well, then, tell me the worst thing you ever did. ACT I. Cak. What an idea! DoKA. Did j'ou ever have a terrible secret? Car. {agitated}. Why, what makes you think Dora {laughing). Of course .you didn't. You are such a goodey, that I believe you never had an ill-regulated impulse in your life. Enter Jeff, 2d r. •Tefp. a bouquet for Miss Dora {giving it). Dora, {reading card). "With the compliments of Mr. Thorne." {Exit Jeff.) It is just twenty-three days since Frank returned from college, and this is his twenty-third bouquet. Car. He seems pretty far gone. Dora. I wish he was gone farther. Then he couldn't come here sixteen times a day. {Reflectively.) But, perhaps, the poor boy wants to improve his mind. {Futs bouquet on stam/, 3d L.) Enter Patience, 2 R., leading a small spa)iiel. Patience. Oh ! here you are, girlo. I want to advise with you about my party dress. Dora. Frank says there's " no vice so mean as advice." Still, if you want my opinion, it shall be furnished to order. Pat. {sitting r., takes dog into her lap). Do be serious, Dora. It has given me a sight of trouble to decide what to wear. At Ar- nold & Constable's I saw a beautiful sky-blue silk, which, I think, would be becoming, made up with maroon-colored trimmings. Dora. Oh, horrors ! Car. I think. Auntie, that you must let Dora select your dress, as it is her birth-day party. Pat. Well, suit yourselves, girls, and you will suit me. I am thankful that I am not one of those that are vain of their personal appearance. The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit is better than jewels and fine dresses, isn't it, Fido, my pet? {caressing the spaniel.) Dora. Does one really get attached to a little animal like that, or is it only make believe? Pat. Certainly, I am attached to him. Dora. Which do you like best, Fido or Mr. Fogg? Pat. {with dignitg). You ought to remember that it is owing to Mr. Fogg that you still have an Aunt to watch over you. Dora {aside). An Aunt who never sees* anything! — It was very good of him, I'm sure. Pat. {rising). I'm expecting him here presently. I sent for him to consult upon some legal business. Dora. You never used to have any legal business before you knew Mr. Fogg. What is the matter? Pat. I have long wished to advise with some discreet lawyer about my affairs; but lawyers are, generally, so unsympathetic and hard. Now, Mr. Fogg is not that way at all; he is quite — Dora. Soft! Pat. No, my dear; not soft. But he is very kind and considerate. He is the soul of honor; and I feel thai I can trust him with my whole heart. (Dora makes grimaces aside to Carrie.) Jeff, {at door). Mr. Thorne. Enter Thorne, 2d r. Thorne. Good morning, ladies. Miss Cortland, your obedient servant {turning to Dora and Carrie). I just called to remind you of your engagement to ride this evening {crossing). Dora. We'll be ready, Frank. Here's your invitation to my birth- day party. You must come early. b AN AMERICAN PASIIA, Thorne (singing). "I always answer to my party's call." Dora (interrupting). Don't be absurd. It is to be on ray eight- eenth birth-day, and I come out at the same time. Pat. Where I was raised, the "' come outers " were people who renounced all the pomps and vanities of this wicked world. Thorne. While here, they are maidens who are just ready to embrace them. Car. When are you going to introduce your friend, Maj. Sennett, to us, Mr. Thorne? Thorne. Whenever you please. By the way, I just left him at his hotel. I might have brought him along. Dora. Then you had better go right back and bring him. I want to capture this African lion, and secure him for my party. Car. With such splendid knight-errants, at this day, I wonder that any one should say the age of chivaliy is past. Dora. I suspect that Carrie " wishes heaven had made her such a man." Car. I wish that I were such a man ! Our lives seem so petty, com- pared with his world-wide career. Pat. I wonder why so many girls wish they were men, while I never heard any man wish he were a girl ? Thorne. ^Esop tells us, Miss Cortland, of a frog who tried to puff himself up and become an ox; but I never learned that the ox returned the compliment. Dora. You horrid egotist! Pat. I am sorry, Mr. Thorne, that you have so slight an opinion of your mother's sex. Thorne. I mean no disparagement. Each sex is the complement of the other. Man is the rough toiler; woman the beautilier and consoler. Man is the sturdy oak; woman the tender vine. Dora (gazing about vacantly). Where k an oak? I don't see any around here. Car. What do you consider the vine's mission? Thorne. To beautify the oak. Dora. I am sure it needs it enough. Pat. And suppose that your " tender vine "does not choose to cling to an oak, what is it to do then ? Thorne. In that case, I suppose it must sprawl about on the ground? Dora. Frank, you are detestable, this morning. Thorne. Ungrateful girl! You will be sorry, presently, for these cruel words. What would you say if I told you that I have just risked my life in your service ? Dora. That you had a vigorous imagination. Thorne. Then I won't tell you (going). And I must be off, or I may not find the Major. Dora. Please, hurry; that's a good boy. Thorne. Don't call me a "good boy." Dora. Shall I call you a bad one? Thorne. Don't call me names at all. Dora. I'm sure, boys are very useful in their way. They may not be "beautifiers" and "consolers," but they are splendid— for running errands ! Thorne. "I go— but I retui-n;" and I'll bring back your lion, dead or alive. (Exit Thorne, 2d r.) Pat. Please, come with me, Dora, and put your things to rights. They are all at sixes and sevens. ACT I. 7 Dora. Yes, Auntie, I know, "in most admired disorder." Pat. Come along, Fido. {Exit with Dora, r. c.) Carrie sits musingly. Daring the next scene she has a timid, con- strained air, as though struggling against an overpowering influence. Enter Lee, 2d r. He stands regarding her tvithout speaking. Car. {Her hack towards him). Are you there, Clarence? Lee. Yes, dear. {Sits on stool, and takes her hand.) Car. {with effort; withdrawing her hand). Uncle wants to see you about soiue business. Lee. Do not begrudge me a few moments at your side. 'They are like "angels' visits" to me — "short and far between." Car. Why will you not speak to my uncle? Lee. He would not approve — Car. Surely, he has a right to know. I feel myself bad and un- grateful, whenever I look into his trusting eyes. Lee. There are enterprises on foot which will soon make my posi- tion sure. Car. Enterprises in which he is engaged? Lee. Yes. Car. I wish that he were not immersed in these business cares. He seems to grow visibly older, day by day. Lee. Everything will be right in a little while. Car. These things make me restless and unhappy. While every- thing is so uncertain, I think it would be better if — I think that — {hesitating). Lee {sternhf). Well, you think what? Car. That it might be better if what has passed between us were considered unsaid, and — Lee. Do you wish to withdraw from your engagement? Car. Yes — no — only for the present; until — Lee {rising). I had your plighted word! Will you tell me I was clinging to a rope of sand ? Car. {with painful emotion). I fear I have done wrong. Lee. And so you would cast aside my love as a plaything of which you have tired! There are girls, plenty of them, selfish, frivolous and heartless, to whom a new lover is only a new toy, to be presently broken and discarded. I can not believe you are one of these. I would stake my life — nay, I have staked my life — upon your sincerity and truth! Car. {appealinghj). I am not heartless! I am not insincere. For- give me if I pain you; but it might be happier even for you, if you were to forget me. Lee. To you perhaps it would not matter. For me it would wrench away all that makes existence dear. In after days, if you chance to think of the poor secretary, you might say to yom-self with a pitying smile, " Poor fellow, he was very fond of me!" And then he would be utterly forgotten; whilst he — his career destroyed, his life blasted — ' would drag a lengthening chain of bitter memories, and of a lost love! Car. Surely, you will not rest all your happiness upon me ? Lee. It does rest there! And sadly do I recognize the frail tenure by which I hold it. Mine has been a stormy life. I have wrestled and struggled through bitter years. At last I catch a glimpse of such happiness as I had never known; as I had not dreamed could e'er be mine. You shone upon my pathway, and gilded it with the 8 ; AN AMERICAN PASHA. sunlight of vour presence. But even while it thrills me, I tremble lest it should fade away and the darkness settle down. Car. {musingli/). And this is love! Lee. Yes, this is love! — the passionate love of a care-worn and weary man. I have nothing else to offer you. You are young, rich, beautiful; and the world lies at your feet. I tread a rugged and thorny path, while yours is strewn with flowers. Car. Clarence, listen to me. Before I knew you, there were many who sought me — an orphan and an heiress — but I encouraged none of them. Then you cam^. Of your character, of your personal history, T knew nothing. But presently, I found myself dominated by an influence I can neither understand nor resist. Your volition, even at a distance, benumbs and controls me. By a wave of the hand you can bend me to your will. This influence fascinates, while it terrifies me. I believe that I love — {shivering) — I know that 1 fear —you. Lee. Why should you fear ? Car. "Perfect love, " it is said, "casteth out fear." Buthowcan that love be perfect which is nursed in concealment and yields but'sorrow '? Lee. I WcVs an idiot to put my heart into your keeping! If you .shatter the idol that I have worshipped: if you make bare this altar {striking his breast), in which your image sits enshrined; if you shall say to me, "Go, poor fool, your hopes are vain, your devotion a mock- ery, your cherished love is only an idle dream," I shall drag myself away, like a wounded animal, to await in solitude and misery the last inevitable i-elease. It may be sport to you, but to me it is death! Car. Why do you distress me ? Forget what I said just now. You have my promise. Lee. Then, fulfill that promise! Give me this proof of your devo- tion. Become my wife. Car. Why, yes, surely, in due time — Lee. No, at once, now ! Car. And my Uncle? Lee. Will accept me afterwards. Car. 0, Clarence! you do not know what you are asking. Give myself to a man secretly, as though I were ashamed of him! Never, nev — Lee. Hold! No more, {Bi/ amotion he arrests her speech, and she passes into a magnetic sleep. He continues, in a calmer tone.) You know nothing of my character? It has naught to redeem it ex- cept my love for you. Of my personal history? It is a record of shame. But tell me that the past is dead; that you are my own; and that the future belongs to us together? Car. " I know not. I care not, what guilt's in thy heart. I know that I love thee, whatever tuou art." Lee {earnestly). Then love can create, as well as destroy; it can atone for the errors of forgotten years? Car. It will atone. Lee. And you will believe in me? You will not seek to enter the forbidden chamber of my past life ? Car. "Love is blind," they say. He should be blind to the faults of the beloved. Lee. Will you follow wherever I lead ? Car. Whitber thou goest, I will go. Lee. Without question; without reproaching me ? Car. Without reproach; without question. ACT I. 9 Lee {seizing her hand). Beautiful one! Let me dedicate my life to you. Transform and mould me into your own likeness. Car. "At eventide it shall be light." {He kisses her hand pas- sionately, then starts from her.) Lee. Why do I linger in this fool's paradise? If she were mine, she would grow into my likeness; not myself into hers. But can she ever be really mineV Turn where 1 will, the spectre of the past pur- sues me, and will not down. Car. "At eventivle it shall be light.'" Lee {startled). Is this prophetic for us both V Or is it only she who will stand in the light while I am in the shadow? (Dok.\-/s heard siiif/inff outside,. Lee touches Carrie quickJi/.) Waken! (Carrie wakes, with a dazed expression.) En'er Dora, 2 r. Dora, Carrie, dear, it is time to dress. We are going out, you know. Car. {risinf/). Yes, darling, I will come. .Jeff, {announcing). Mr. Fogg. Enter YoGd, 2(\.Vi. He wears a shalby black suit and rusty icig. Fogg. Good morning, young ladies. {Turns to Jeff.) Please present this card to Miss Cortland — Miss Patience Cortland, the old lady; {exit Jeef) that is course, 1 don't mean the old lady, but the more elderly Miss Cortland {crosses). Your A\mt, Miss Dora, can not be called old, you know, but she is somewhat older than you are. {Smiles constrainedly., tripes his face, drops hat, picks it up hurriedly, and sits doirn.) Dora. I hope people do see some difference between us. Fogg. Very much so, yes. I received a note from your aunt request- ing me to call on business; 'hem — a business appointment. I hope I haven't disturbed you. Lee. I have lingered too long. Miss Ely. I attend your uncle. {Exit, L. c Carrie bows slightly, and exit 2d r.) Dora. You have quite neglected us, lately. Why haven't you been to see us? Fogg. Well. Miss Dora, I am not a society man. In the haunts of fashion I should not be a success. The Muses and Graces did not preside over my education, and so — Dora. You may be sure that the gentleman who saved my aunt's life will always be welcome here. Fogg. Don't mention that little service. It was of no consequence. That is — of course, T don't mean to say it was of no consequence, bub it isn't worth speaking about. Dora. Oh, Mr. Fogg, you're too modest, by half. Fogg [seriously). You are quite right, Miss Dora; I am. That is what has kept me back in my profession. Some cynic has remarked that "A successful lawyer must have a bad heart and a good digestion." My heart is not bad — quite the reverse — and my digestion, I fear, ia rather poor. Dora. Aunt is a great medicine woman. You must let her give you something for your dyspepsia. {Gather! )ig up letters.) If you will excuse me, I'll see what detains her. Here is an invitation to my birth-day party {giving it). You must be sure and come, or Aunt will be dreadfully disappointed. We want you to lead the German. {Exit Dora, 2d r.) YoQG (sohi.eside her.) Leaii^n me for a minute. Do you feel any better? Pat. {gasping). At least, we will always be good friends, shall we not? Fogg. Why, yes — certainly; the best of friends. Pat. {hysterically). And you will never desert me? Fogg. 0, never. You may command my life's devotion, Pat. {faintly). Then, you really love me a little? YoGa {embarrassed). Love you? Why, I suppose so — of course — I can't help myself— that is to say, I can't help loving you. Pat. Then, take me, Mr. Fogg! But for your avowal, I should ever have concealed my preference, but now I will confess to you that my heart has found its home {closed eyes, head on his =thoulder). Fogg {aside, staring blankly). If it has found its home, it would be cruel to turn it out of doors. Be calm, Patience — be calm ! {Jiim- self agitated). Pat. {looking up). I am quite calm. I feel a perfect sense of restfulness and peace. Fogg. Well, that is a comfort. Pat. Oh, yes! there is no more struggle — no more unrest. I have often wondered why my life was left unrounded and incomplete; but now it is all explained. 12 AN AMERICAN PASHA. wa^waitinffor you. ""'^''"^"«'^«'y P'-eparing to fulfill n^y destiny I mu^s?hli:teL'aiti^4yo?."^^*- ^H-' ^y the sa.e token, I Did^oulUtAardin'^fsttli^^^ store for you ? ' "^^'stenous intimations of what fate had in wZihJ^iji^At^^-S^^^^^ want to hold him? ' ^^ "" ^"' ^^ ^^^-^^^ff- (?^« Fogg) Don't ySu J^««- Doesn't he bite? ^.Fo^^G (^«4l7.r,^4?Vn?n^^t'^^^^" ™^- -•^^^ ^-' Fido? FidosmftWaboutmyleS fn the \.ll ''""y. P^^^^ial to do^rs, and -thin, ^. dea^^„;^"^;s -:ysir^L ^s ^\ -: Fogg Eh: the first time? Fogg (r^^lcSZ '? tffntif"^' '''^l? ^* ^'^^"'^ «" «f a sudden? Pat. I'm go fflarl tn 1,^ '* "" "^^ ^^her a sudden thiuo- me. When rou'^Siw me oTof Z " -^'0^ ^* ^^^ ^^^ ^ -'th you (because the nasty salt-w.fL inf •!' ^'"^^'^ before I had seen forth I was yours fo^eveT '"^"^ '"^° ^^ ^3^^«)' ^ ^It that hencJ- PA:."wt't/' '^''' ''^ ''^-' -y? Ah! that was a terrible day ^^prl^J^:[!^^r^^ experience for you; but a fortunate tound a wat*y g-rave we wUU^^.i''^ ^^'^""^ ^'here we so nearlv our lives togethfr.'""''^^'"''^ ^^' mysterious fate that linked P?^'''^^'''/"^'''^"'^' J"^* as you please foJo "inLXVl™ ^^r' ""^ "-' ^°" f=»- t«""reS wlL-r&e B" -1--«"^ of . i„ , Pat. How stranmlv tliimf. if ■ """J, " ™* » Sne point, been loving me, yoTL7e°Ra?iT\ , '^" ""■" «"» *"' "«" have kas^iness hadn't cilledvoTlSelJZvi'''''' ? '°'" ""'■ Perh»p"?'? pr Bir7o!j'ti,~ / T^=S^""" ''^'''*^''- "&'^n^;fS€^'^"^^^^^^^ ..art UrXh^/rsSVot'. ttat I ha« too .adi„ given „,, Jove! i hey cannot appreciate-— -T?; ^^^ey know nothing of Fof r Mis^°' *^^ P^es^»t ■ ^^^ "' ^^y nothing about our are sSictly clfiJeS.' ^ """^ ^"^ attorney, and all communications ACT I. 13 Enter Jeff, 2 r. Pat. {startled) What is it, Jefferson ? Jeff. Thought some one rang-, ma'am. Pat. No; but I am feeling a httle faint, Jefferson— you may bring me a glass of water. Jeff. Yes, 'um. [Aside,) Spoons ! Old spoons ! He, he! (Exit 2d R.) Pat. I must leave you, my own. You have made me very happy. Good-bye, my love. Come, Fido. (Fogg attends her to the door.) Exit Patience, 2d ii. Fogg {solus). That plunge was as sudden as my hea:der into the river. One minute she was talking of her will, and next of her wed- ding. They came as close together as the marriage and death notices in the newspaper. Did I propose to her, or did she propose to me? It is perfectly bewildering. Anyhow, it is past praying for; and "since 'tis done, twere well 'twere done quickly." I ought to con- sider myself a happy man. Upon the whole, I believe I am happy {duhioiislij). Of course, I'm happy! We will be married, and live happily forever after! She is not in her first youth; but I am not exactly a sprmg chicken myself. "There is a tide in the affairs of men, which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune." My tide w 's in when 1 fished that maiden lady out of the water. My son shall not study law — that is to say, when I have a son. He shall go to a swimming-school; and then he shall spend his days riding to and fro, on the ferry, to gather in distressed mermaids and collect the salvage! {Enter Jeff., r. c, with glass.) Thank you, Thomas {drinks the uater). Jeff, {sflffl!/). Jefferson, sir. Fogg. Thomas — Jefferson, of coui-se. Jeff. Not Thomas, at all, sir; plain Jefferson. Fogg. Well, plain Jefferson, then. You need not mention any- thing about Miss Cortland's slight attack: she has got over it. As a retainer, 1 will give you one of the dollars of our daddies {feels his pocket). On the whole, 1 spent it for cab-hire, commg up here. Never mind — I'll remember it another time. Good-day, Thomas — I mean Jefferson. {Exit 2 n., followed hy Jeff.) Enter Cortland and Lee, l. c. Lee. Then you will take the additional telegraph shares? CoRT. Yes, since you advise it. I trust you are thoroughly sat- isfied. Lee. I am confident that the companies will consolidate shortly, which will send the stocks up fifty percent. CoRT. The newspapers tell a different story. Lee. Well, the managers are not such fools as to show their hands until they secure all the stock they want. CoRT.' I noticed that the shares are ten per cent, below the quota- tions a month ago. Lee. Possibly they may be hammered down even lower; but you have only to hold on a little while, and you will make a million. CoRT. Ah! Mr. Lee, what avails it for me to heap up riches? It won't make my little girl any happier, and taere is no one else now that I have to care for. Enter Carrie, 2d b. Car. Is Dora's cheque ready? 14 AN AMERICAN PASHA. inSuYtiiStlfbJS' '^ ('»""•«<' '» !'■"')■ Yoa may send the COKT As well as usual, my dear, trouble /ou ? '^'"^^' ^"^^ ^^^^^^ -^^^^d, lately. Does anything ha?dTy^K;a'"fwlTy?ar:^^^^ vT T"^^^' *1^^'"^"' ^^ I- nothing icaressingh,) ^ ^^^'' ^^' ^^^ ^'^«^- ^-^t, there, it is buSnSsiw ''""''^''* *"^^ ^^••^ «f ^«- precious self, and let CoRT. I will tell Lee that we must draw in n liffl^ tt, men want to take the world on their sho^ders 1 n'^ J^''' '''''""- ^"fff o^yel'.^^-^— ^^ ^- I^oi'CEy .ot/o^Tnfooti;?;? you wltCi^^o^Se:'^ '^-^"-^ ^"^'^ ^"^ ^'^'''- Perhaps Car. I am never lonely with you. past'?wenty,"i thiS '^'' ^" ^^' ""'^^'^ ^^ ^^^^^^^^ enough. You are Car. Twenty-two. wh^eS^mi^ieT'Ttl^L'^o^ f^' ^ age of your mother, and now-the years gV^yTkr^dream '" '^^ ^'^^ ^'^^ were achUd! CoRT.'g,mtaStTvdrprr"'LiS --'^'t ^e^ Uncle? the ladder; but^hen my sKma riedhfm 1^' '^Y^^^V^^ '^' ^^'^ «f as a man of talent and inteSi^y ' "^^^ ^^'^'''^^' ^^H-known n.fmTr•thatttref^o?s^w"^^^^^^^^ -^ d-. But. re- come that your heart shall Sf7'f°'^' T^^^^^^^ <^he day shall her) than the one that shelLt^^nr^''^ ^"^ .'?^^' ^^^^^" ^^"'«'>«^-/>^^ desires only your happiness^ ' ^''" "^^'^ ^«"fi*^« ^^ "^'^. who I had'oSffflfc JrS: '''^'^'^- ^^^' C^— -. - c.) Oh! I wish Enter Dora, r. c. Dora. Here they are, Carrie. Look out for the lion' ^;(im j^„ n 1 , Enter L^E, 2d R. who resides at the mramklf (^t "'^ P^^sent you to Maj. Sennett {Aside.) Does he rfcognize me? "^^^ ^' '"^^^ Maj. Sennett. hEi, (aside) That man /ifr^ / JuEE (ettibarrasted) Prav a ' Sattr- to rema^i-I -sr^port^^fi^cted^n^^^^^^^^^^^ Ha^ryrmJe'anTillii^rtronTheL^^^^^^^ T^^ '^-i--- , Lee. It remains to be seen ^^^ ^" stocks?. ' Sr'Telltr' '^'^.^•^ Maj.- Sennett's carriage ^^•"''' ^- '^'^ nagSeS liJSrCn? thTl ^'"(^'^ ' ^^-dmy car- pa^iy to the MetropSftSn MusSm if .V"""' "^ ^^'^^ Jon/com- antiqmties brought over by niyseff"' ''^ '^^^'^ curiosities and ACT I, 17 Sex. The entire equipage was a present from the Khedive. Dora. They are just too lovely. I wish the Khedive were a friend of mine. Thornr. " How long, 0, Cataline, wilt thou abuse our patience?" You must change your dress, and we have none too much time, Dora. We'll be ready in five minutes. Come, Came. {Exit Dora and Carrie, 2d R.) TnoRNR. Well, wasn't I right? — isn't she beautiful? Sen. {n'iih a pre-occupied air). Who is beautiful? Thoune. Dora, of course. Are you blind? She looks like a young godde-s. What animation in her features! — what -a sparkle in her eye ! — what — Sen. Yes, yes; she is all that. Do you know this Lee, who passed through here, just now? Thorne. I have met him frequently. He is Mr. Cortland's confi- dential secretai-y. Sen. Has he been here long? Thorne. About six months, I believe. He is quite a genius in finance, and has engaged his employer in some very large speculations. Sen. I thought Mr. Cortland had retired from business? Thorne. So he had; but he is now operating more heavily than ever. I suppose Lee manages most of his ventures. Sen. {aside). It is utter ruin. Thorne. Do you know anything about Lee? Sen. I saw him at Cairo, several years ago. He then went under another name; wore a different costume; had a full beard. Still, I think I cannot be mistaken. Thorne. What was he doing there ? Sen. He was engaged in the commissary department, and was living in great luxury. When the late Khedive was deposed, he ab- sconded, as it was reported, with a large amount of money. Say noth- ing about this matter. I mast investigate it thoroughly. Thorne. If I can assist you in any way, call on me. Enter Cortland, l. c. CoRT. Good-day, Frank. I see my niece is not here. Will you kindly give me your arm to the next landing? (Sennett rises and hows gravely.) Thorne. Certainly, lean upon me. CoRT. We old fellows don't find it so easy to get up a step in the world as it was when we were young. [Exit with Thorne, 2d r.) Sen. (solus). Alas! how changed from the stalwart, self-reliant man of twelve years ago. My arm should have sustained him. My brain and heart should have been his stay. I have gained the world's applause, while here — here! was iny duty left undone. I re- turn to find my father old and broken; my sister unprotected; the slime of a sei-pent on the threshold of our home! I am not too Iat« to save them. " But, ah! her — she who hung over me in infancy; who nourished my childhood; who followed my erring footsteps with her prayers, and died not knowing that those prayers were an- swered; {turning to portrait) how shall 1 ever escape regret at every utterance of thy name! Enter Carrie, 2 r., in street costume. She is about to speak, then pauses. He continues, without observing her. My mother! Speak to my heart, and tell me that no shadow of thy sorrowing years dims the radiance of thy celestial home. Tell me 2 ]8 AN AMEllICAN PASHA. that thou seest my repentance and ray tears. Tell me that I am for- given! {He sinks into a chair, and bows his head.) QUICK CURTAIN. Curtain, half rising, shows Sennett alone, gazing intently on picture. ACT II. SCENE — A conservatory, hriUiantly lighted. Glass bach, with small door at r. c. Sides open. Banks of natural plants and flowers at hack and sides, ivy around ceiling. Light tvicker settees and chairs. Music, off, as curtain rises. Enter Carrie and Dora, 2 Jj., followed by Thorne. Dora. How tlid I look, Carrie? Car. Beautifully. Dora. Don't I appear flushed — are my cheeks red? Car. Not unbecomingly, dear. You do veiy well. Dora {sitting doivn). I was in such a flutter, I hardly knew what to say, in receiving so many people. I'm glad of two mmutes' rest {fanning herself). Thorne. I don't see how you managed it, Miss Dora, but you do look lovely. Dora. I notice Carrie, and then follow her example. Thorne. The result is perfection. You look sweet enough to eat. Dora. Oh, you cannibal! We'll send you to Africa, with Major Sennett. Thorne. " Would that the desert were my dwelling place, with one fair spirit for my minister — '' Dora {interrupting). That you might eat her at your leisure! Thorne, " That I inight all forget the human race, And, hating no one, love but only hei." — Byron. Dora. When you are ready to emigrate, we will try and give you a complete outfit, including the "fair minister," etc. Enter Sennett, 2d l. Sen. Miss Dora, you have done much execution, this evening. Are you re-stringing your bow, to bring down more beaux? Thorne. Renewing her beau-string, one might say. Dora. It was awfully good of you. Major, to cotua here to-night and play the lion. Sen. Was I cast for the lion ? Dora. Why, certainly you were. Car. And you play it with excellent discretion. You " roar as gently as any sucking dove." Sen. {half aside, to Carrie). "I will roar you an 'twere any nightingale." ACT II. 19 Car. My lions may roar as loudly as they please — so long as they are in a cage. Sun. (/o Carrie). A cage from which it is difficult to escape. Car. I will leave the door wide open. Sen. But what if the desire to escape is wanting? Car. It will return when you bi-eathe the desert air once more. Sen. 1 feel an influence here, which enchains me stronger than bolts fnd bars. I may "change my seas and skies, but not the mind." Car. (embarrassed). Still, I think that you are "fated to be free." Enter Fogg, 2d r. He tvears a blue coat with brass buttons, canary waistcoat, and lavender trousers. Thorne [to Dora). Here comes one of Ovid's melamorphoses. Dora. Oh, Mr. Fogg, what a pity! Fogg. What is a pity? Dora. That you mistook my party for a fancy-dress ball. Fogg. Not at all. What gave you such an idea? Dora. Why, you don't mean to say that that is your general dress suit ? Fogg [regarding it complacently). No, it is my particular suit. What is the matter with it? Dora. Don't you think it is just a little "loud?" Fogg. I can't say I do. It's the very pattern of the suit my father was married in. Dora. So, you rely on " the wisdom of your ancestors," in matters of costume? Fogg. In everything, Miss Dora. I am content to stand " super rias antiquas," upon the ancient ways. Enter Jeff., 2d L. Jeff, (to Sen.) Here is a telegram for you, sir. (Exit Jeff.) Sen. [to ladies). From Egypt, it seems; will you excuse me? (open ing it.) Dora. It is like a voice from the tombs! Mayn't we see it, Major? Sen. (handing telegram to Carrie). Will you read it? Car. (reading). " For distinguished services, Major Arthur Sennett has been created a Pasha." Fogg (aside). My stars! I'm the attorney of a live Pasha! Thorne (to Dora). P'sha! Who would have thought it? Dora. Major — I mean Your Highness — this is perfectly delightful. Thorne. I would like to be a Pasha, or something myself. Dora. 0, you have a good title already. Thorne. To what? I'd like to know. Dora (tapping his cheek ivith her fan). The American Sheik! (Music off.) Car. Come, Dora, we must go back to the ball-room. Thorne. " No rest 'till morn, where youth and pleasure meet To chase the glowing hours with flying feet." Dora. I trust, Major, you will still condescend to people of low estate. Sen. I feel as queerly as the beetle in the show-case; and can fay, as he did, "although stuck up, I am not proud." (Exit Sennet and Carrie, 2d l.) Fogg. Miss Dora, will you give me the pleasure of dancing with you ? Dora (going). Really, I'm afraid that my list is full; but (laugh- 20 AN AMERICAN PASHA. ing) as you are so fond of "ancient ways," I've no tloubt Aunt -u-iU be happy to dance with you! {Exeunt Thokne and Dora, 2 i.. ) Fogg [solus). Hum! her aunt's ways are not exactly the kind that improve by age. Sometimes I wish I hadn't proposed to her— it I did propose. This getting engaged, is a very confusing business. Men don't know what they are about; otherwise there could not be so many marriages in the world. I have had half a mind to see whether I couldn't rescind the contract, on the ground of mistake or undue influence, or something of that sort; but my courage always fails me. She is frightfully fond of me, to be sure! Bat what is the use of borrowing trouble ? There will be a long engagement, and that will give me time to get used to the idea. I'll just put it put of ray mind for this evening, and enjoy myself. This is my first party in twenty years; so, for a fortnight I've been preparingfor my fashion- able campaign. {Taking out a small volume,) I got a book of eti- quette for the field manoeuvres, and a book on dancing, for the man- ual of arms. It was rather difficult, drilling all by myself. I hope I'll not make a mess of it when I get under fire. Let me see {reads), " You should be careful not to tread upon your partner's dress, but if you are so unlucky as to tear it, you must treat the accident as of no consequence, it being assumed that she has plenty of other dresses." Um! — um! {turning leaves). "When attending a lady to supper, you should see that she is supplied, before you help your- self; and in banding wine or coft'ee, you must be particular not to spill any down the lady's back." {Shuts book.) It needs no ghost, come from the grave, to tell us that! I believe I could write bett r rules myself. I'm more concei-ned as to how I'll go "upon the light fantastic toe." {Dances.) Forward and back; half moulinet and turn partners; chasse croise and salute; turn partners to places. Enter Patience, 2 l., Fogg riins smartly against her. Did I tear your di'ess? If so, it is of no consequence! — Oh, it is you, my charmer? I was thinking about you. Pat. So, you prefer dancing by yourself, Mr. Fogg? Fogg. Not at all, my dear; not at all. I was only passing the te- dious moments until you arrived. — " Earth was a desert, Eden was a wild. And man, the hermit, sighed 'till woman smiled." Pat. You seem to be in very good spirits, this evening. Fogg. Why not, my dear? Everything is lovely, and the goose hangs — 'hem! When I first got here, I felt as much out of place as a sword-fish in on opera box. I expected to find the people stuck up and exclusive; but they are quite pleasant and affable. Everybody smiles when they speak to me. And what a quantity of pretty girls there are! Pat. So, you have been watching the pretty girls? Fogg. Naturally, my dear. Pat. And making yourself agreeable to them, I suppose? Fogg. Not to any alarming extent. After a man's head gets to be ■shiny, the girls don't take a shine to him ? I can understand, now, why Samson's strength lay in his hair! Pat. You men are inconstant creatures. You would like to skip, like a bumble-bee, from flower to flower. Fogg. My affection remains as fixed as the needle to the pole. But even the needle, you know, wabbles a little! Pat. Is that why you have neglected me, lately? Fogg. My dear! I've been here three times within a week. ACT II. 21 Pat. And what did you do with yourself the other four days? Fogg. I couldn't have come oftener without exciting remark, and you said — Pat. Yes, I know ; but tell me how you spent your leisure hours when you were not with me? Fogg. Very much as 1 did before I knew you. Pat. What did you do last Monday evening ? Fogg. I went to the club. Pat. And on Wednesday evening? Fogg. I went to the club. Pat. And on Friday evening? Fogg. 1 went to the club again. Pat. You poor man; how dreary it must have been! But you can now.look forward to the time when we shall be always together. Fogg {aside). What a ghastly idea! Yes, that will be very de- lightful. Pat. Then you will no longer need to look to your club for amuse- ment. You can give it up altogether. Fogg (feebli/). Did you say " give it up," my dear? Pat. [severehj). Certainly, I said give it up! You wouldn't care to go to a club after you're married? Fogg. Not so much, of course, but I thought — Pat. How would you like to have your wife spend her evenings at at a club ? Fogg. If it would give her any pleasure, I wouldn't stand in the way. Pat. It couldn't give her any pleasure. I'm sure you must agree with me, that nothing should be allowed to weaken the closeness and sanctity of the marriage relation? Fogg. Oh, certainly. Pat. {enthusiastically). Where there is a true union, the wedded pair find all their happiness in each other. There is an entire conimu- nity of interests. There are no secrets between them. Their friends, their correspondence, their business, their pleasures are all in common. Hand in hand, they go together — "two souls with but a single thought—" Fogg. "Two hearts that beat as one!" {Aside.) Oh, this is dreadful! {Getiing\ip.) I feel a sort of a cramp in my legs — I must exercise them a little. {Music off.) Let us go and dance. Pat. I can't dance, Mr. Fogg. Fogg {putting bis arm around her) They're playing a polka — come along. Pat. But I tell you I can't dance; really — Fogg {pulling her with him, sings), " Can't you dance the polka? Won't you dance the polka? The joys of earth are little worth. Unless you dance the polka!" {Exeunt, 2 l.) Enter Cortland and Lee, 2 R. Lee. Sir, it is a fatality. Cort. It is a fatality; but there is no fate so relentless as our egregious folly. Lee. No one could have foreseen the break to-day. It was a clap of thunder out of a clear sky. Eveiything looked fair, when block after block of our stocks were thrown upon the market, and there was a regular panic. 22 AN AMERICAN PASHA CoRT. I'm carrying of "Transcontinental " upwards of a million, I believe? Lee. Twelve hundred thousand. CouT. And of "Inter- Ocean y" Lee. Eight hundred thousand. CoRT. {half aside). Two millions! after all our other wild invest- ments. We have been rushing blindfold upon the breakers. Lee. There was a sUght rally at the close, and to-morrow the storm may blow over. Cor r. 1 hope so, for the sake of others; but a glassy sea and sunny skies avail him nothing whose wreck is upon the shore. Lee. My dear sir, a man like you can not be ruined in a day. Your credit is almost unlimited. CoRT. I shall not avail myself of it. I will not drag my Iriends with me in my downfall. Lee. But this is Quixotic — absurd. You only need to tide over a day, perhaps, to float again in smooth waters. CoRT. We will not discuss the question. Within a few hours I have taken an account-of my liabilities. I can meet them as they stand, but I can do nothing further. Lee. This means ruin ! CoRT. {gloomily). Yes, it is ruin. Lee. And not to yourself, only. Those dearest to you must share it with you — your sister, your daughter — CoRT. My sister has her own portion; my daughter { f alter in gly) will forgive me. But I could never forgive myself if I could not look the world full in the face. Lee {aside). Infatuated fool! Well, sir, what are your instructions to me for to-morrow? CoRT. None. I will take the helm myself. It is full late; but, at least, I will be on deck when my ship goes down. Hush! here comes Carrie — she must hear nothing of this. Enter Carrie, 2d l. Car. L^ncle, the Ledyai-ds have arrived, and inquired for you. CoRT. Very well, I will come. Lee {aside). When the ship goes down each one must save him- self. But how to leave her? I can not — I will not. What's to be done? CoRT. {going). Don't be away long, dear. {Exit ('ORT., L. 2 Carrie comes forward.) Car. {timidly). I have not seen you in the ball-room. (Lee turns toirard her.) Why! what is the roatter — are you ill? Lee. I am sick at heart. Car. And for what — ? Lee. 0, Carrie! I must leave you. It wrenches me asunder, but I can not help it. I must go abroad at once. Car. For how long? Lee. For months, may be— perhaps longer. I can not tell. To leave you, distracts me. What will life be worth to me should I re- turn and find you another's ! Car. {repressi)ig emotion). You need not fear that. Lee. How can you know ? They will, perhaps, blacken my char- acter, and I shall not be here to defend it. They will undermine your faith in me. They will urge upon you some favored suitor, an(i you will forget me. Car. {shaking her head sadly). No. ACT ir. 23 Lee. There is only one way to make me secure. Become my wife before I go. Cah. {startled). Your wife! Leb {agitated and hurriedly). This evening — while the guests are at supper — make some excuse to go to your room alone. Meet me here. We will drive to a clergyman's a few blocks distant. We can return in twenty minutes. Your absence will not be noticed. Car. {despairingly). 0, Clarence! Lee {feverishly). It is but binding the troth which you have plighted. You will continue in your uncle's house. No one will suspect anything. It will save me, and it will strengthen you, too, because then you will not be moved by threats or entreaty. When I return, in happier days, we will be married betore the world. Car. But, what does all this mean ? Why this secret marriage — this sudden flight? Lee. I can not explain, now. It must needs be a strong reason which could tear me from you. You must not — shall not — refuse me. Car. You are too hard with me. You ought to trust me. You should not treat me as a child. Enter Thorne, 2 l. Thorne. More guests arrived, Miss Ely, and inquiring for you. Everybody clamors for Carrie — the children cry for her! Car. Coming, Frank. (To Lee). I will return presently. Lee. Do you consent ? Car. Yes. {Exit Carrie ajir? Thorne, 2 l.) Lee {solus). Her uncle may thank himself for this night's busi- ness. It is a desperate chance, but a drowning man must clutch at anything. {Exit, r.) Enter Society Swell and Young Lady, l. 2d. Swell. Are you fond of flowers. Miss a- Jenkins? Miss J. Oh, passionately! I adore them. Swell. Here is a pretty one. A laburaum, isn't it? or an azalia, or — something? Miss J. {dubiously). I don't know, exactly, but 1 think it some kind of a — shrub. Swell. Talking of flowers, I'll give you a conundrum that I made the other day. Miss J. Excuse me; my mamma doesn't approve of conundrums for girls, she thinks they are improper. Swell. But this is only a little one for a cent; an easy one, you know. Why is a " Mai-echal Neil " like you, when you got up this morning? Miss J. Oh, you horrid man! Swell. Because it's a rose; arose, don't you see? That's a good one, isn't it? * Miss J. I don't want to hear any more, Mr. Jones. Please take me back to mamma. Swell. Well, but, you know — {Exeunt 2. r). Enter Patience and Sennett, 2 l. Pat. I am certain there has been a marked change for the worse in him, within a few days. Sen. Sit down a moment and explain the matter to me Pat. It may seem strange that I should speak so confidentially to you, after our b-ief acquaintance ? 24 AN AMERICAN PASHA. Sen. Not at all. I am accustomed to receive confidences. Pat. There is something in you that inspires them. Do you know- that you strongly remind me of a nephew of mine ? Sen. I am quite flattered. You say that Mr. Fogg appears less ardent than when he first won your affections ? Pat. It is only a short time since he disclosed his — his preference, and this makes his coldness the more inexplicable. Sen. At the beginning, then, he showed no lack of— enthusiasm ? Pat. Quite the contrary. He was very much in earnest, indeed. He wouldn't take No for an answer. Sen. Probably these later symptoms are not out of the common way. Love is a great deal like an ague; one day comes a fever and the next a chill. Pat. Well, it's very uncomfortable. It seems to me that engaged people are neither one thing nor the other. Sen. They are amphibious animals; living partly on land and part- ly ill hot water! It isn't a condition that should be too long con- tinued. Pat. a long engagement would be perfectly dreadful! People make such silly remarks when a maiden lady becomes engaged. I'm sure she has as much right to, as anybody. Sen. Certainly she has. It isn't a right that is baiTed by limita- tion. Pat. But for mature persons like Mr. Fogg and myself, along en- gngement would be ridiculous. We certainly ought to know our own minds. And I think the most sensible course would be to get married some afternoon, when we are out for a walk vfithout saying anything about it beforehand, to anybody. Sen. I quite agree with you. Pat. Now, do you really? It is such a comfort to confer with a discreet adviser. Perhaps you would be willing to sound Mr. Fogg a little and see whether — ? Sen. Oh, I'll bring him around. You may consider it settled. I'll make all the arrangements for you. I'll engage the parson to- moiTOW. Pat. I wouldn't wish to trouble you so much. Sen. It will be a pleasure, I assure you. Pat. But really I have no claim — Sen. Don't put it in that prosaic form., Miss Cortland. Consider me as a Knight-Errant, whose privilege it is to assist a distressed lady, and to see her righted. Pat. You are very kind; but this is a prosaic age; and ladies now- a-days do not expect others to do for them what chey can do for them- selves. Sen. As, for example? Pat. [embarrassed). Well, in regard to the minister; I spoke to our pastor the other day, Ijecause I thought — it seemed to me that if a suitable occasion should arise — Sen. " It would be so handy to have him in the house." My dear Madame, a woman of such forethought and executive ability needs no counsel from me. You will be a perfect treasure to your husband. You can do all his thinking for him! Pat. Then you don't see anything out of the way in my taking this initiative ? Sen. "The Gods help those who help themselves." You are only taking steps to secure Mr. Fogg's happiness, and he ought to be a thousand times obliged to you. ACT II. 25 Pat. {rising). I'm glad we have had this conference, Major, be- cause it. confirms my own judgment so entirely. Sen. If Foerg has any gratitude he will name his first boy after me. Your plan is admirable; and now that you're sure you're right, you have only to go ahead. {Exeunt 2. R.) Enter Carrie 2 l. Car. Not here! {enter Jeff. 2 r.) Do you know where Mr. Lee is, Jetf? Jeff. He just went out, Miss, in a great huriy. He asked me to give you tliis letter. {Give letter, soft music from ball-room.) Car. {readiiH/, aside). " Our future happiness depends- on your " decision. If you consent, place a red rose in your hair. Be in the '■ conservatory at eleven. A carnage will be at the side entrance to " convey us to the clergyman. The driver is discreet and will disclose •• nothing. If you refuse, we will be separated forever. Do not leave '■ me to despair. My whole life shall prove my devotion. Clarence." (music ceases.) Go to my desk and get an envelope for me. {Exit .Tkff. l.) What shall I do? An hour ago, all was so bright and beautiful; and now everything seems changed; the lights dim, the fiowers faded, the music dead! But he loves me, — he has sworn that he loved me, — and 1 must obey him. {jnits ros^ in her hair). Would he were here. I shrink from this step. I am so afraid! Re-enter Jeff. l. Jeff. Here's the envelope, Miss. Car. (tvriting in pencil, on Lee's letter refolds and encloses it). Oive this to Mr. Lee as soon as be comes in. Jeff. Yes, Miss. Car. {taking another 7wte from her pocl-et. And please hand this note to Maj. Sennett as soon as vou have a good opportunity. Jeff. Yes, Miss, what shall I say to him? Car. Say nothing; or, if he asks who the letter is from, tell him {nervoush/) tell him anything — tell him you don't know! Jeff. "I understand, Miss. {Exit Carrie 2 l.) {Jeff shifts the notes nneasilg in his hands) Hum! these are pretty doings! Tears to me that Miss Came is about compromising of herself. In these times when the African race am on trial it behoves a respectable colored gentleman to look shai-p after himself. — I'm to give this nole to Maj. Sennett, and this one to Mr. Lee; or was it just the other way? Blest if I know tother from which any more! There's no writing on 'ern, and the envelo] es are just alike. Mebbe I'd best put both notes in the fiah ? But that might get rne into trouble too. Thank goodness, I've got a dream- book in the pantry that can disentangle any such trouble in a jifty; or if there isn't anything consentaneous in that I'll consult the horoscope with a pack of keerds! {Exit r.) Enter Thorne and Sennett, 2 l. Thorne. And so the quondam commissary has not reformed? Sen. He has had himself whitewashed, but underneath he is as black as ever. {They sit down.) Thorne. And how do you like the role of detective? Sen. Not at all, I assure you. I've been hand-and-glove with the fellow, and at times I've almost felt myself as great a rascal as he. Thorne. And he doesn't suspect you? Sen. Not in the least. He is satisfied that I did not recognize him. Thorne. What have you discovered? Sen. That he is a speculator, a gambler, and a libertine. I've 26 AN AMERICAN PASHA. lost a few hundreds to him at cards, and he has tried to inveigle me into various doubtful enterprises. Thoune. Mr. Coi-tland will do well to change his confidential manager. Sen. Lee is such a desperate gamester, that I've no doubt that he has squandered much of his employer's money. But this is trifling, compared with the reckless ventures into which he has led him. TiiORNE. Will he lose, do you think? Sen. Lee has bought, right and left — mines, railroad and tele- graph shares; and lately he has pitched heavily into ''Trans-conti- nental " and " Inter-Ocean." Thorn E. Short, or long? Sen. Long. Thorne. I noticed that Mr. Cortland had a long face on him this evening. This explains it! Sen. I fear that unless he gets some help he will go by the boai'd. Thorne [concerned). Is it so bad as that? Sen. For reasons of my own, I intend to put my shoulder to the wheel; but if we have another such tumble to-morrow it may chance that my resources will not suffice. Thorne [ivannly). My dear fellow, I claim the right to assist here. My father was Mr. Cortland's partner, and owed to him his start and success in life. When father died Mr. Cortland was my trustee, without reward, and handed me my property in sjjleudid shape on the day that I was twenty-one. Sen. If I can not get along otherwise, I may call on you. Thorne. Call upon me, anyhow. The fact is — besides owing so much to Mr. Cortland, I'm in love with his daughter. Sen. Have you told her so? Thorne. Not in so many words. But sjhe doesn't need to be told that I'm desperately fond of her. Sen. Well, well. Thorne. Did you ever see such lovely eyes? And then, she has so much intelligence. She is so knowing, and yet so innocent. Sen. a kind of wide-awake i«.9<;j(Ke.' Thorne. Of the true American type. Sen. Oh; this is a bad case! But don't despair. You'll pull through all right. Thorne. Pull through? Sen. Yes, you'll get over it. These early attacks are seldom fata) . Thorne. I don't want to get over it. I want to make her my wife. Sen. How old are you ? Thorne. Twenty-two, three months ago. Sen. And she is eighteen to-day. A pretty pair of "babes in the wood " you would be. Don't think of it. Thorne. I can't help myself. I think of it all the time. Sen. Is there any one else in the way? Thorne. No, there isn't any one else, so far as I know. {Av.r- ioHsJy.) By the way, you have been coming here veiy often. Don't tell me that you — Enter Carrie and Society Swell, l. 3d. Sen. No — not at all. I am going to marry her cousin. Thorne. Miss Ely? (Carrie listens, startled.) Sen. Yes. Thorne. The deuce! How does that happen? Sen. Kismet. It is fate! ACT II. 27 Swell. Are yon fond of flowers, Miss Ely? . Car. Ah, who does not love flowers! SwELfi. Speaking of flowers, let me give you a conundrum that I made the other day. Car. You will find me a dull guesser, I am afraid. Swell. But this is an easy one. Why is a " Marechal Neil — [Theij pass out, v.. 3d.) Thorne. How do you know she will accept you? Sen. My dear boy, I never proposed to a woman in my life that she didn't accept me. Thorne. If it is a regular habit of yours to distribute your heart around, of course, you learn women's little ways. Sen. "Expenentia docet.'''' Thorne. Yes, experience does it; 1 wish I had some. I'd like to hide in a corner and see how you manage the matter. ^ Sen. a natural wish, but reprehensible. / Thorne. And yon couldn't — ? Sen. I really couldn't. You must paddle your own canoe, and I wish you every success. Thorne. Thank you. Sen. Not just now, of course, but when you are both of a suitable age — say, three or four years hence. Thorne. Oh! thank you for — nothing. Enter Jkfp., r. Jeff. A note for you, sir {giving it). Sen. No address. Are you sure it is for me? Jeff. Sure. Sen. Who gave it to you? Jeff. I don't know. Sen. You don't know! Jeff. I was ordered not to know, sir, and I don't know. Sen. Very well. {Reads; appears agitated.) Jeff, {aside). 'Pears like he was discomboberated by that 'pistle! {Exit, L.) Sen. {aside). The treacherous villain! Poor little girl! Thorne. Any bad news? Sen. Yes — no. I'm a thousand times glad to get this letter. {Re- flecting, half aside.) I have it! Yes, that will be just the thing. Thorne. What is the matter? Sen. Please go to the ball-room, and make yourself agreeable to Dora. Don't tease her with any love-making; the time hasn't come for that. But stay near her— don't go away. Take her down to supper. Thorne {rising). My lord shall be obeyed — especially as his orders seem agreeable to sound reason. {Exit, l.) Sen. {looking at loatch). Forty minutes yet, before our conspirator proposes to explode his mine. Forewarned is forearmed; but it was a close thing. I'll go and see whether the train is laid. {Exit through door at hack.) Enter Fogg and Young Lady, l. Miss J. Are you fond of politics, Mr. Fogg? Fogg. I can't say that I am. It is the proud boast of each native American that he may be President— if he can only get votes enough. But I am debarred from that privilege. I was swindled out of my iniieritance before I had a cradle. In fact, I was " counted out " before I was born ! 28 AN AMEUICVN PASHA. Mrss J. Tncleecl! How could that be? Fogg. My parents were foreigners ; but they tried to retrieve the misfortune by emigrating to this " land of the free," etc. That would have made me a citizen, only that our steamer broke a shaft, which delayed us twelve hours, and I was born just five hours and a quarter before we sighted Sandy Hook! Miss J. What a misfortune! Fogg. An irreparable misfortune. When I grew up I studied law expressly to prosecute the steamship company. Miss J. And did you succeed ? Fogg. No, madame. The court followed the ruling in the "Ala- bama case," and held that indirect damages were not recoverable. ,! Miss J. That was too bad. Fogg. The learned judge also intimated that the suit was brought by the wrong plaintiff; that, in fact, it should have been brought in the name of the people, who were the parties most injured by my disqualifications. Miss J. I'm afraid you are laughing at me. Fogg. Perish the thought. {Aside.) If I wer'n't, I'd be a bigger fool than she is. Re-enter Sennett, r. Sen. {aside). The carriage is there, sure enough, and I've come to an understanding with the driver. A woid with you, Mr. Fogg. Fogg {to ladi/). Pray, excuse me. {Exit Lady, l.) At your ser- vice, sir. Sen. What is the report this evening? Fogg. The papers reached me at four o'clock. At five-thirty a special messenger started with them for Washington. We should have the arrest warrant within forty-eight hours. Sen. {(ihstractedly). After ail, Fosg is a good fellow. I dare say, he'll make her happy. Whether he'll be happy himself, is a differ- ent matter. Fogg. Is there anything else that — ? Sen. Yes. You are attached to Miss Patience Cortland, I believe? VoGG {surprised). I can't deny the soft impeachment, though I don't see how it concerns you. Sen. ''Nihil honiiiium alieiuim piifo.''' Nothing that concerns humanity is foreign from my sympathy. Fogg. The sentiment does you honor, sir, but still I'm at a loss to know — Sen, I'll inform you. You confess the attachment? Fogg. You may call it an " attachment " if you like. It was levied about a fortnight ago. Sen. Was that the date of your proposal? Fogg. I'm not sure that I did propose. I think that the boot was on the other leg. It's a point that isn't exactly clear iu my own mind. Sen. But you're engaged? Fogg. 0, yes, we're engaged — very much so. I'm afraid there's no doubt about that. Sen. And when are yon going to be married? Fogg. It's not decided. In fact, the engagement is not yet announ- ced. Miss Cortland preferred that it should be secret, for the present; though, as you seem so well intormed, I presume she has takf'u you into her confidence? Sen. I suppose you have no desire for a protracted engagement? ACT II. 29 Fogg. Well, not particularly — no. I presume it will run the usual course. Sen. What do you call the " usual course?" Fogg. 0, say, a year or two, probably. Sen. Bless me! Do you think that your suit is a suit in chancery? Fogg. You think that too long? Sen. Altogether too long. Now, what I suggest is, that you take time by the forelock, and get married at once. Fogg. And what do you mean by "at once?" Sen. Well, say, in the course of the next half-hour, Fogg. Holy Moses! Isn't that rather sudden? Sen. The lady's wishes ought to be law in a case of this kind. Fogg. And does she want to be married within half an hour? Sen. That's what I'm telling you. Fogg. And she requested you — ? Sen. Don't ask so many questions. The parson is waiting, and there's no time to be lost. Fogg. The parson waiting! Here in the house? Sen. No, just around the corner. Your carriage is at the door. Fogg. I wonder whether I'm awake? This is a regular nightmare. Sen. You'll wake up soon enough. Better get through the cere- mony, and have done with it. FooG. But, man alive! I haven't any witnesses. I can't get mar- ried without witnesses. Sen. I've telephoned for some. They will reach the minister as soon as you do. FooG. Do you solemnly tell me that the lady — Skn. The lady's heart is set upon it. If you hang back she will be very unhappy. Fogg. Well! I don't want to make her unhappy. Sen. "Take the goods the gods provide thee, Lovely Thais sits beside thee." Fogg. I don't know about " Lovely Thais ;" but if Miss Patience has made the arrangement, it isn t for me to object. Sen. Spoken like a philosopher! Wait here a few minutes, and I'll prepare her; that is to say, I'll let her know that you are ready. {Exit, L.) YoGG {sol tts). My destiny advances per saltum; with a hop, skip and jump, as it were. "Make ready," I propose; "present arms," I'm engaged; " fire!" and before the smoke clears away I'll be mar- ried. I don't like this sudden arrangement. The family might sa.y hard things about me afterward. I'll find Mr. Cortland, and ask his advice in the affair. ' {Exit, l. 2d.) Enter Dora and Young Sweli., 3d l. Swell. Are you fond of flowers. Miss Dora? Dora {jx'ffishli/). No, 1 hate them. Swell. Indeed, you surprise me. I never knew a j'oung lady to hate flowers. Dora {indifferently). Well, I hardly call myself a young lady yet. Swell. Speaking of flowers, let me give you a conundrum that I made, the other day. Why is — Dora. Oh! I hate conundrums. Let me give you one. Wliy is — why is this chair like an elephant? Swell. Because it can't climb a tree? No, I suppose that isn't it. Well, now, why is this chair like an elephant? 30 AN AMEEICAN PASHA. Dora. I'm sure I don't know. T only asked for information. Swell. He, he! Miss Dora; you're very facetious. Oh! I've just thought of one. Why am I like an elephant? DouA. Because you have such large ears. Swell. Really now, Miss Dora, you are too horribly severe; that is too awfully cruel, you know. I must really protest, you know — {They go out r. 2.) Enter Fogg and Cortland, 2 l. CoRT. What's this? You say that sister Patience is engaged to you? Fogg. And I'm engaged to her; we're both engaged, — subject, of course, to your approval. CoKT. My sister is old enough to know her own mind. If she is satisfied I don't see how I can interfere. Fogg. Then you don't object? CoRT. 0. certainly not. Fogg. Well, I'm glad I asked you. Now we will go and be mar- ried. CoRT. Be married; when? Fogg. Immediately; just now; right away. CoRT. You don't mean it? Fogg. I didn't fifteen minutes ago, but I find the lady has made all the arrangements for our nuptials, instanter. CoRT. Is it possible? Fogg. She had a dread of being talked about, so she wouldn't let it be known beforehand. CoRT. Well, we must humor her. The guests needn't know but that it was all arranged by the family. The cermony can take place in the parlor just before supper. Fogg. It isn't to be in this house. CoRT. Where then? Fogg. At the clergyman's house, just around the corner. CoRT. Around the comer! Fogg. {confidentiaUy). I fancy that Miss Cortland has a bit of romance in her composition, so she planned a sort of elopement — as it were. CoRT. My sister plan an elopement! Fogg. Only a little one, you know. CoRT. You must be dreaming. Fogg. No I'm not. She has secured the parson and the carriage is at the door. CoRT. Oh! this is incredible! It is hardly decent. At all events I will go with you and give her away. Fogg. You'll "give me away '' if you do. She did not intend you to know; but 1 thought it only fair to tell you. Now don't you think, seeing it's all right and square, that you'd better let her have her own way; and you can give her your blessing later? CoRT Well, well, this is a queer freak. If I must not go with you, at least I'll be on the watch, and will throw a slipper after you. ( Exit Fogg and Cortland, l.) Enter Lee, 2. r. Lee. {solus.) This suspense is killing. I dare not stay in the ball-room lest my agitation should be observed. I saw her among the dancers, and the rose is in her hair. Re-enter Fogg, l. Fogg, {aside). The old gentleman is agreeable and now I'm ACT ir. 31 ready to face the music. By the way, that reminds me that there's the piper to pay. I'll have to be married " i« forma pauperis '' un- less somebody will lend me the money. Probably Miss Cortland would think it queer, if I borrowed it from her {addressing Lee). 0, I say, Mr. Lee — Lee. Well, sir? Fogg. I've a little appointment this evening, which requires an unexpected expenditure. Lee. What is that to me? Fogg. Nothing, to be sure, unless you choose; but you would much oblige me by a short loan. Lee. Psha! [turning away), Fogg. Your manner is as short as the loan I asked for. I'm not so intrusive as I may appear, because, in fact, I'm about to enter the family. Lee. Indeed! Fogg. Yes, I don't mind telling you, — in confidence. I'm to mar- ry Miss Cortland. Lee. Marry Miss Cortland! Fogg. Miss Patience Cortland. Lee. Oh! Miss Patience. I admire your ttiste. She is an excel- lent lady; and doubtless her fortune has many attractions for you, Mr. Bogg? Fogg. Fogg, sir, Fogg. As to her fortune that is neither here or there ! Lee. Just SO; as you acutely remark, at present it is neither here nor there. However, accept my congratulations. Fogg. I'd sooner accept the loan I mentioned. Lee. How much do you want? Fogg. I suppose that fifty dollars would be about the correct thing. Lee. {aside). It's all he'll ever see of her money. {Hands bill). Well, here's the fifty, Mr. Hogg. Don't spend it foolishly. Better put it into a government bond. Lay it up for a rainy day, Fogg. I'll return it to-morrow morning — Lee. Suit yourself. Fogg. With interest of course; with interest. I don't mind a six- teenth per cent. Lee. 0, bother! {Turns away). Fogg. And permit me to remark, sir, that my name is Fogg; Puf- fendorf Fogg, Attorney at law. Lee. {impatiently). Fogg, Bogg, Gog or Magog; what do I care for your name? {Paces about nervously.) Fogg. " He who filches from me my good nam© " Robs me of that which not euriches him " And leaves me poor indeed." {Aside.) He knew my name well enough and changed it just to annoy me. The offense is almost equal to forgery. I wonder why Pa- tience doesn't come. I'll go and look after her. {Exit, l.) Lee. {solus). Her love is the last plank that holds me to life. If that fails, I care not how soon the waves overwhelm me. How pretty she is; how sweet; how innocent! Once she is mine 1 '11 turn my back on my former yeara. We will go faraway where I am not known; and the past shall fade out of my life as a bad dream fades when the morning sunshine streams in at the window. Would that I were worthy of her! Would that 1 had youth, wealth, fame, a family 32 AN AMERICAN PASHA. name, unspotted honor, that I miffht lay them all at her feet! I have none of them; but I can not ffive her up, I will not. Enter Jef, l, Jepp. Here is a note, sir, which Miss Carrie asked me to give you. Lee. Thanks. {He opens it, trembling.) Jeff. {Aside). 'Pears like he was more discombobberated than the other one. _ _ {Exit. Ti. 2.) Lee. What is this? {reads) "A sincere friend entreats you no lon- ger to maintain your incognito." Am I discovered? {rends) "Those " nearest to you most need your h^^lp, and will welcome the wanderer "home." This is inexphcable. It is Game's handwriting, and yet seems intended for some one else. {Starting uj).) Jeff, must have d(>- livered the wrong message. Where is he? {Exit, u. 2) Enter Fogg a»(Z Patience, with dog, l. 2. Fogg. You don't mean to say that you're going to take the dog along? Pat. 0, yes, Mr. Fogg: I shall feel so much more comfortable. He will be some protection to me. Fogg. I'm your natural protector now, my dear. Pat. Not quite yet, Mr. Fogg. When the minister has blessed our union you will occupy that position, but in this emergency — 0! I must have Fido along! Fogg. Well, suit yourself. You're the mistress of ceremonies. Pat. Don't speak unkindly to your poor Patience, when she is making such a sacrifice for your sake. Fogg, {surprised.) Oii, you look on it in that light? Upon my soul, I thought it was just the other way. Pat. What do you mean? Fogg. Never mind now. Least said the soonest mended. Which is the primrose path to the nuptial bower? Pat. Maj. Sennett said we must go out at this door, and through the side gate. Fogg. Maj. Sennett seems to be very forward in this business. Pat. He is a very earnest friend of yours. Fogg. "A friend in need, is a friend indeed." '" Pat. I would never have consented to this step if he had not pleaded your cause so warmly. Fogg. Humph! You must remember him in your will. Pat. I feel so agitated! Keep hold of me dear. Fogg. Be easy. And if you can't be easy, be as easy as you can. Pat. I feel such a palpitation ! Fogg. Can I get anything for you ? Pat. Kiss me, dear, and that will comfort me. {He Jcisses her). Come along Fido. Mind the steps. {Exit Fogg and Patience at backdoor.) Cortland enters, 2 l., with child's shoe. CoRT. {solus). Dear old Patience. I hope she may find the hap- piness she waited for so long. This little shoe was worn by my baby girl when she prattled beside my knee. {Kisses it and throws it out of the door.) May good fortune attend thee, sister, through all thy pilgrimage, {comes forward.) The child's slipper was long ago outgrown. She too is a woman, now. She too will find a mate, and go away, and then I shall be left alone, all alone! {He sits dejectedly.) Enter Carrie, 2 l., she glances around nercously, then advctnces so/^?y to Cortland! ACT II. 33 Car. Are you tired, uncle? CoRT. A little, my dear. Car. I am so sorry. I would like to spare you every pain, and yet —0, Uncle, be sure that I love you! If ever I am foolish, aiidwronu- headed, and — and unhappy, you will not blame me: you will not cease to love me ? CoRT. Why, what is this, Pet? Car. Nothing; I believe I am nervous and excited. I wish your poor tired eyes were at rest. (Kissing his eyelids.) There, I must go now. I only wanted to say how dearly I love you. {Exit, 2 i..) Enter Sennett, 2 r. He looks toward Carrie, then sits hi/ Cortland. Sen. Your daughter and niece look charmingly, this evening. CoRT. Thank you. Sen. It is we who should thank you for so much grace and loveli- ness. (Cortland looks up surprised.) You are truly a fortunate miin, Cort. They are good children, sir, and I ought to be — happy [f/looniili/). Sen. Please excuse me if I seem intrusive. — I have a good reason for speaking. I understand that the course of the market to-day has been against you? Cort. It has sir, heavily. Sen. Your manager, Mr. Lee, has perhaps been over sanguine? Cort. (hitterli)). He has been utterly reckless! he has cast my fortune to the winds! (more qnietlij). But why should] blame him! I have only myself to thank for it. Sen. You are interested in the telegraph stocks, I believe? Cort. So deeply, that the fall in them sweeps away the earnings of a lifetime. Sen. 1 am sure that this depression is fictitious; and when the tem- porary pressure is withdrawn the stock will rebound. Cort. It may be so; but it will not avail me. Sen. You must let your friends help you in this crisis! (C. mal:(s a negative gesture). Nay, hear me. Mr. Thorne, whose father was your friend and partner, is anxious to place his means at your service. Cort. It would be a sorry retain for the father's friendship, if I were to ruin his son. Sen. I also beg leave to assist you, in the name of your son — Cort. (eagerli/). What of him? Sen. He and I were comrades and friends. In distant lands; be- neath burning skies; in the red smoke of battle; we have toiled and fought, a,nd suffered together. Cort. Long ago he left his home, and turned his back upon those who loved him. Sen. Long ago he repented of his boyish folly, and many a night, under the desert stars, his pillow has been wet with tears as he thought of the dear ones, far away. Cort. Then why does he not return? His mother mourned hiiji all her days, and I grow old and feeble without his stay. Sen. Believe me, he will come. He asked me to beg your forgive- ness and your blessing. Cort. (rising). O, little does he know a father's love that he should deem such meditation needful. But bid him come to me; bid him come. Sen. And you will accept me as a friend for his sake? 34 AN AMEKICAN PASHA. CoRT. Yes; I must not give him up now (rifting). Doubtless my boy is poor; and 1 must make him welcome when he comes home. (going). When our pfuests are gone sir, I will confer with you; and we will make a good fight together. (Exit 2 l.) Sen. (soZ»s). Poor old father ! I must pull him out of this hole, before I tell him, or he would let business go to rack in the excite- ment over my return. Enter Lee, 2 K. Lee, How d'ye do Major? Are you not dancing this evening? Sen. (lighthj). No, 1 am making other people dance. Lee. The luck vfas rather against you at our seance last night, but 1 hold myself at your service. You shall have your revenge. Sen, (smiling). I intend to, I assure you. Lee, By the way, I fear the servant made an absurd mistake by giving you a note which was intended for me. Did you receive such an one? Sen. An envelope was handed tome without an address; so I vio- lated no confidence by opening it. Lee. 0, certainly not (pauses). And I am sure Maj. Sennett is too honorable a player to take any advantage of an accidental glance at his neighbor's cards? Sen, Might not the obligation be different if he happened to see a card in his neighbor's sleeve ? Lee, Sir? Sen, I was only pursuing your own simile. Don't be offended, Lee, I confess I was f'riglitened at first, lest the note had fallen into the hands of a rival. Sen, (regarding him njnicalhj). Of you? 0, dear no! Lee, That would have been too bitter! She loves me; she is mine; and no one shall wrest her from me (with emotion). She is my rosebud, my lily, my innocent dove! Sen. (aside). Hound! (aloud; sarcasticalh/). You are a lucky dog Mr, Lee! Or rather it seems you are a hawk; with a penchant for doves. It is a dangerous ta.ste to cultivate. You must keep a sharp lookout for the keeper — and his gun ! Lee, (aside). How much does he know ? Can he mean mischief ? (aloud). Well, if there should be a chase, at least you would not join the pursuers? Sen. 0, as to that, the keeper must guard his dove-cote if he can, I've enough to do with my own affairs, Lee. Then you will not mention to any one the note which you received? Sen, I will not mention it. Lee. Thank you sir (looking hacTc suspiciously). (Exit n.) Sen. (solus). He is thankful for small favors. It is refreshing to meet occasionally with a grateful disposition. Enter Carrie, l., (she advances hesitatingly.) Car, In a brown study, Maj, Sennett. Are the cares of State weighing upon you? Sen. (smiling). Not very heavily. My duties at present are in the lighter paths of diplomacy. Car, I fancy that when you are not engaged in public affairs you seek amusement by mystifying your friends? Sen, How! for example? Car. Well, for one thing, by assuming a name which doesn't belong to you. ACT II. 35 Sen. My name not belong' to me! . Car. It depends upon which name you mean, Maj. — Sennett. Sen. It shaU be whatever you please, if yoa will add to it the title of your very devoted servant. Car. And cousin ! Sen. And cousin {Jcisshig her hand). Allow me to renew my allegiance. Car. Now tell me, upon your faith as a loyal subject, why do you go about, disguised like another Haroun al Raschid in search of ad- ventures? Sen. That is a State secret at present. We must be silent and discreet. But take mv arm and 1 will tell you a fairy story. [She hesitates, then fakes his arm. They go up.) Cak. And does it end happily.) Sen. You shall decide. Please hear the beginning first. There was once upon a time — {they pass out '•^ k.) Enter Dora, 1j., followed hy Thorne. Dora, {impatiently). 0, you are too absurd! Thohne. I don't see why it's absurd. We have known each other so long. Dora. AVhich makes it the more ridiculous that you should burst out in this way. [Throics hrself into a seat, u., front.) Thorne. And lately, since I've seen you so often. Dora. A grr-at deal too often. Thorne. Please don't say that. Dora. Wby can't you be nice and comfortable as you used to be? Thorne {ruefully). You must have known, all along, that I loved you. Dora [opening eyes wide). How rould I know? Thorne. And now I tell you so, plainly. Dora {severely). The man I marry must be distinguished; a great politician, or financier, or a writer, or discoverer. Thorne. Very well; I'll distinguish myself. Only give me a little time. Dora. Certainly, take all the time you want. Thorne. In what way would you prefer me to distinguish myself? Dora. 0, anythmg, anything; it is quite immaterial- Suppose you imitate Maj. Sennett, and civilize the natives in the interior of Africa. Thorne (bitterly). Or suppose I go to the North Pole in a bal- loon. Dora. Oh, do, Frank! That would be splendid. Thorne. If I got my neck broken, you would not shed a tear for me. Dora {reproachfully). Why Frank, to be sure I would; two tears if you like. [They continue in dumb show.) Enter Sennett and Carrie r. 3. Car. And so, after many years ? Sen. And many wanderings, he i-eturned to his home. The beau- tiful child whom he remembered had become an enchanting woman, and he laid his unwasted heart and his honors at her feet. Does the story end happily? Will she accept them? [they come down.) Car. [affected, but with forced jjlay fulness.) Do you always makeyoui- proposals so prettily. Major? Sen. What? I don't understand. 36 AN AMERICAN PASHA. Car. 0, I laeard you confiding to Frank your kind intentions. Sen. Which disproves the saying that "listeners never hear any good of themselves." And what is the queen's answer to her subject's petition. Car. " La Reine S'avisera;''^ the queen will consider further. Sen. But that was a formula of rejection which is obsolete. It was used by the Queens who governed in the bad, old, times. Car. And shall I not govern here? Sen. {tenderly). Is it not enough to reign ? {they continue in dunib show.) Thorne. And you positively won't marry me? Dora. Decidedly not. Thorne. We have been such good friends: and now to separate forever. Dora. We will continue good friends if you do not talk nonsense. Thorne {wistfully). Oh! Dora, you are so beautiful, and so cruel. Give me one kiss before we part. Dora. Excuse me; I never kiss gentlemen — nor boys! Thorne. Please — only one. Dora {rising). Well, I'll allow you to kiss me — {he start s eagerly) whenever you find me with my eyes shut and my mouth open! Thorne. Dora! (Dora passes out rapidly, 3d l., followed by Thorne. ) Car. Forgive me. It is impossible. Skn. You do not dislike me? Car. No, no; it is not that. And do not think that I do not value your love. As long as live I will remember with tenderness and pride this sacred hour. {Turns face aside, her voice tremhling.) And you will remember it — though without regret — in happy years to come, when some true woman shall stand, a proud and loyal wife, beside you. Sen. You shall be that woman, dear. Car. It can not be. Sen. You are in trouble, Carrie. Let me help you. Car. No one can help me. I have chosen my path, and needs must follow it. Sen. You have been led by some Will-o'-the-wisp into a morass whose noisome exhalations stifle you. But, come; you have only to ■quit its deadly shade and breathe Heaven's pure air again. Car. It is too late. Sen. It is not too late. Car. You do not know. I am not free. {Hurriedly .) But do not trouble yourself about me. I am glad that you have come home, ■Cousin — very glad. You will be a comfort and help to Uncle when — {checks herself). I am sure he needs you. He has not seemed strong, lately. Sen. His burdens are too heavy for him. Even now he is threat- ened with ruin. Car. Poor, dear Uncle! Sen. He has treated you as a daughter? Car. Oh, yes! I have scarcely realized that I was an orphan, he has cherished me so tenderly. Sen. And he lives only for his children. The young have so many pleasures — the old, so few. As, one by one, from the volume of their hopes the pages are torn away, they cling more earnestly to the Sibyl- line leaves that remain. When the shadows lengthen towards life's ACT III. 37 close, a parent's love only becomes stronger. He plans for himself no more, but only for those who will live when he shall sleep. [She fakes the rose from her hair and drops it on the floor.) Surely, it is not too much, to repay with perfect trust this uncalculating love. Car. 0, say no more! You have shown me how thoughtless — how cruel I might be. Enter Lee, r. Lee. Carrie — Miss Ely, I believe you are engaged to me. We must take our places. (Carrie shrinks back, Sennett places him- self between them.) Sen. (quietly). Miss Ely is tired, Mr. Lee. She begs to cancel her engagements for the rest of the evening. Enter Fogg [carrijing dog), and Patience at back. Lee. What is she to you? What right have you to speak for her? Sen. The right of a gentleman to defend the innocent and un- protected. Lee. Carrie, shall this man come between us? Speak to me. {She shrinks aivay.) Sen. {to Carrie). Will you go with him? Car. {clasping Sennett's arm). 0, not now. No. Sen. You see, sir, that the game is up. Your victim will escape you. TABLEAU — Lee's attitude is defiant; Sennett's calm; Carrie's apprehensive. Patience. . Fogg. Sennett. Lee. Carrie. QxTRT Kin falls, then rises again. Carrie lies fainting in arms of S'E.THTfJKTT, who gazes fondhj upon her; Lee has turned aside, his head down; Fogg has dropped the dog, and is fanning Pa- tience, who has fallen back in a chair. ACT in. Library room, enclosed. Handsome furniture. Open doorway, 2 R. Fireplace, 3 R. Doors, 2 L. and at r. hack. Book shelves along back. Windaw, 3 l. and Cylinder office desk near it. Stock Indicator by window. Bell Telephone at end of book- shelves. Center-table, chairs, d-c. Cortland discovered, sitting at his desk. CORT. The weary days go round; and each day the clouds lower more darkly. 1 can see no break in them; no promise for the morrow. The rising flood will overwhelm me; and all ray household gods, books, pictures, even these old walls, will soon be driftwood upon its rushing tide. He sits moodily. 38 AN AMERICAN PASHA. Enter Jeff. r. Jeff. Here's the mail, sir. Postman was a little late this morning'. CoKT. Where were you just now? I wanted you. Jeff. Mrs. Fogg sent me out for a barber, sir._ She wouldn't let Mr. Fogg shave this morning. 'Fraid he'd cut himself, he! he! CoKT. Whatever Mrs. Fogg directs, you will please to do without comment. Jeff. Yes, sir; of course, sir, {Exit.^.) CoHT. [opening letters). Here are the bills for Dora's little party. (runs them ovei-). Poor child! her's was a brief glimpse into the gay world of ease and pleasure ; a world which the icy hand of poveiiy will soon close to her forever. Enter Dora, d. r. c. Dora. Are you alone, papa? Where is your lazy secretary? CoRT. I have not seen Maj. Sennett this morning. Dora. A new broom ought to sweep early. I'm afraid he won't do. CoRT. He will do very well while I requu-e a secretary. It will not be for long. Dora. Why not, papa? CoRT. Because, child, I am ruined. [She strokes his head softly.) Major Sennett has been working night and day to arrange my afFaii's and has made great personal sacrifices to protect me. But it is all in vain. Dora, [caressing him). Dear, dear, papa! I know that it is only for your children's sake that these losses trouble you. CoRT. Yes, dear. Dora. Indeed we will not mind them — I've often heard you tell how happy you were, with mamma, when Will and 1 were little things. CoRT. Those were blessed days. Dora. And you lived then in a little house, among unfashionable people. Cort. Your mother was a household fairy, whose touch could change even a hovel into a beautiful home, Dora. And the magic that she used was love! Dear papa, let Will and myself be your household fairies; and if misfortune come, it may be only a blessing in disguise, since it will knit us closer together. Cort. Thank you, pet. I ought not to repine while you are left to me. But it is hard to see my life-work perish; to see the fabric fall in a night and crumble into dust, which I raised so carefully through patient years. It is very bitter. Enter Patience, l. d. Pat. Brother John I'm very much troubled about your affairs. You must make use of my money just as if it were your own. Cort, Thank you, sister [aside). How can I tell her? But in fact — the truth is — it has been used already. Pat. How can that be? Cort. Mr. Lee had plunged me so deeply in speculation that he seized whatever he could lay his hands on to stem the current. Pat. 0, the reprobate! Cort. I did not know of this; but it was all my fault. T have wronged, you Patience, wronged you deeply; and you too, my darling. Dora. no, papa, no. Cort. You must try and forgive me (rfsm^'). Give me your arm. ACT III. 39 sister; I wil retire awhile (^rooi^r). I ought to help you, instead of being a burden; but I am nerveless now, and my hope and courage are alike dead. {Exit Pat. and Cort., l. d. Dora (alone). How sad poor papa is. I hope his dear face will brighten when brother comes home. — I wish I could do something for him. I will arrange his papers {examines bills, d'c). Perhaps these bills were worrying him. Enter Thorne, r. Thorne. I hope I don't intrude. May I come in? Dora. Why CQxt?im\y {pushing chair to fire). Sit down there {he sits). And here's the newspaper for you {gives it). That's right. You look like a Bachelor of Arts. Thorne {sentimentally). A bachelor of /^ertr<.9, you mean? Dora. 0, you want to stick on an H, do you? That's because the fellows of your set want everything so Henglish, you know {sits at desk). Now, don't talk; because I've business to attend to. Thorne {turning around). You! Dora. Yes. I'm deputy secretary. I've got to examine these bills. Thorne {declaiming). " Hans Breitman gave a party. Where is that party now!" Dora. dear, I can't manage it. Thorne {getting tip). Then let me help you. Dora. I want to pay these out of my own money, and there isn't enough. Thorne. Does your father expect you to pay them ? Dora. Of course not; but Frank {solemnly), 1 do believe papa is so hard up that he hasn't the money himself. Thorne. You don't say so? {she nods). Well, I'll see to them {pockets papers) and your father can pay me, later. Dora. But suppose he can't? Thorne. It isn't a supposable case. Still, if it should happen, he can spout something. Dora. The idea of papa spouting at his age; " My name is Norval," for example! Frank, you are perfectly ridiculous. Thorne. I know it; but there's a reason, — I've been with you so much ! Dora. What do you mean, sir? Thorne {smiting his breast). " You may break, you may shatter, this vase if you" choose to. ^1 " But the scent of the roses will cling" where it used to! £■»<«»' Sennett, r. back. Sen. {gaily). Good morning Miss Dora. You look as fresh as a basket of roses. How d'ye do, Frank? {goes to desk). Hello! who's been disturbing my papers? Thorne. Dora was playing at business. Sen. " How doth the little busy bee improve each shining hour." {strikes telephone). Connect me with Pinkem & Snap. Thorne {to Dora). They're the great detectives {signal at tel.). Dora. What can he want with them? Sen. {listening at telephone). What progress? (pause). When does the steamer sail? (pause). No; you may wait awhile. Keep a sharp watch upon him, and call me up if anything occurs. Good bye (rings off). 40 AN AMERICAN PASHA. Dora {to Sen). Are you asking about a steamer for yourself al- ready ? Sen. Oh no. Dora. For whom, then? Sen. You mustn't ask indiscreet questions. Pretty girls should be seen and not heard {sits at desk). Dora {anxiously). Tell me, Major Sennett, whether, papa's affairs are really as bad as he says. Sen. How bad is that? Dora. He says that he is ruined. I don't see how a rich man, like papa, can be ruined all at once, do you? Sen. No. Dora. And now that you have taken hold, I'm sure you'll make a strong fight ? Sen. {writing). With no thought of surrender. Thorne {at mantel; he has opened a small box). Let the man who talks of surrender be shot on the spot. Dora. What have you there, Frank? Thorne. Bonbons. Dora. Give me some; I like bonbons. Thorne. " Sweets to the sweet," as the good queen remarks when she slings flowers into Ophelia's grave. Dora. You ought to be an actor. Thorne. 1 intend to be (holding up bonhon). Now; "Open your mouth and shut your eyes {she does so), and I'll give you something" {kissing her) to cause surprise! Dora. How dare you, sir! Thorne. but you said I might whenever I found you with your mouth open, and Dora, (pouting). Aren't you ashamed to treat a poor blind girl so? Sen. What are you two quarreling about? Dora. He kissed me; the wretch! Thorne. She gave me leave. Sen. (rising, ivith pajjers in hand). Well, it's a shame — so early in the morning! Don't go away Frank, I want to see you presently. {Exit, R. D. BACK.) Dora (seriously). Frank, papa told me of the sacrifice you offered to make for him. It was very kind of you, and shall never forget it. You mustn't talk any more nonsense to me; but we will be good friends, and I shall always be glad to see you. Thorne {sentimentally): " A little nonsense now and then, Is relished by the best of men." Dora (inertly). That is no reason why you should relish it! Enter 'hoGG. "2 R., in smoking cap and dressing gown. He skips about, gently, during the following : Fogg. How are you, Mr. Thorne? Dora. My goodness, Mr. Fogg, what is the matter? Thorne. You haven't got St. Vitus' dance, have you? '\)ouK (pretending alarm). He's got the fidgets! 1 hope it isn't catching. Thorne. Perhaps he's practicing a new step for the next ball. Fogg. You needn't think that I'm doing this to amuse myself. It's by the Doctor's directions. Thorne. Come, that's too thin. ACT iir. 41 Fogg. I've got the sciatica, — ugli! what a twinge— and the Doctor said I must jump about every third day. Dora. 1 never heard of such a thing. Thorne. He must be a lunatic. Fogg. Those are his orders, — dear! — and Mrs. Fogg's. All I have to do is to follow them. {Enter Patiknce, l.) Dora. Aunty; did your Doctor do anything so ridiculous? Pat. As what, dear. Dora. As to set poor Mr. Fogg going like a dancing Dervish? Pat. My dear, it is necessary for his health. rp >■ Let us see the prescription. Pat. I remember it perfectly. Mr. Fogg is to apply the liniment for two days, and then skip on the third day. This is tlie day that he has to skip {the others laugh). Fogg. Eh! {sits doivn suddenht). Dora. It didn't mean any such thing. Pat. What then? Dora. Whv, that he is to use the liniment for two days, and then omit it for a day. Pat. {doKhtfully). Oh! Fogg {ffohig). Patty, you'll be the death of me yet. Pat. Where are going love? Fogg. To take a little smoke, my dear. Pat. a smoke! The doctor said you mustn't smoke; and I can not abide tobacco. Fogg. I'll go to the conservatoiy. Pat. And spoil the flowers! No, I will not have you smoke. I couldn't endure a husband who smoked. Fogg {meekly). Very well, dear. I'll just go and get my coat. {Exit, R. D., hack.) Vxr. (aside). Poor Puffey, he feels disappointed . I'll go and he!p him on with his coat. _ {Exit, n. v>., back.) Thorne. Your aunt keeps the bearing rain checked up rather tight. Dora {laughs). Yes, poor Puffy. Thorne. The next time she falls into the river, I guess that Rip Van Winkle will " let her schwim "! Enter Sennett r. d. back. Sen. Well, it will soon be decided one way or the other. Thorne. Can you pull through to-day? Sen. If Transcontniental doesn't fall below sixty. This is hard woik. Two days ago I sunk ^50,000. Thorne. Alas, yes. Sen. And yesterday you sunk a like amount. Thorne. Yes. Sen. It is like building a tramway across a bog. We construct our fascines; put them in position; and they sink out of sight. Thorne. Clear out of sight? Sen. The only question is whether we can get the better of the bog, or whether we shall be swamped by it. An inch or two at last may make all the difference. Thorne. What have you done since yesterday? Sen. This morning I dumped in another fifty thousand. I've 42 AN AMEKICAN PASHA. thrown uy last spadeful of earth, and can do no more. Enter Caurie, 2 l. Car. The Morning Oracle insists that " Transcontinental " will go down to 50. Sen. And like the oracles of old it labors hard to fulfil its own prophecy. Dora. What is your opinion, Frank? TnoRNE. I never have an opinion until I read ray morning paper. The editors do all our thinking for us now-a-days. Dora. Prof. Poppenhauser says that the daily press is almost the air we breathe. Thorne. And a very foggy vapor it is, too. Sen. a press independent and pure is indeed like the vital air. But, 0, shame upon those who pollute this atmosphere; who make it reek with the foul odors of scandal and hate, or heavy with the seeds of financial niin! Car. Are there many such? Sen. Even one were too many. {cxcife'Jh/.) When I look abroad and see the streams of intelligence poisonpd at their source; when 1 see the vast game of speculation, in which the great gamblers play with marked cards and loaded dice, when I see trustees and directors betraying their trust; when the shepherds emulate the wolves and rend their victims, whom in derision they term " lambs," it sickens me. Thorne. Hear, hear! Sen. Take, for exarnple, this combination in which we are in- volved. A few conspirators, controlling two great corporations, threaten a deadly strife. The timid public throw the stocks upon the market; their value is beaten down by every trick of artifice and falsehood. Meanwhile the architects of ruin are ga'hering the spoil. When they are satiated, they will throw off the mask, and proclaim themselves the shameless confederates that they are. The rich will be richer and the poor will be poorer. Dives will add to his millions, and Lazarus, ruined, may beg at his gate. And these men think that their victims will submit forever! Thorne {to Dora). The Major is rather " in 'Ercle's vein " this morning. {Sigunl at telephone.) Sen. (at telephone). Hello! (listenhifj). All right; good bye. {rings off). Only a message concerning our friend the commissaiy. Thorne. And how goes the commissary? Sen. He is about to seek " fresh fields and pastures new." An hour ago he bought a quantity of Government Bonds and a ticket for Bremen. Thorne. He followed the advice of the virtuous lago and " puts money in his purse." Sen. Mr. Lee will be surprised to learn how closely his actions are reported here. Thorne. He is so far, and yet so near! Dora. Cannot he be forced to make restitution? Sen. It inight be difficult to make oat a case. But I've anotlipr hold upon him, growing out of his Egyptian transactions. I re- ceived the needful documents yesterday. {Carrie ..) Enter Carrie. 2 R. Car. Uncle wishes to know if there's any good news? Sen. None. {Sits, gloomily.) Thorne. But we expect some, shortly. Enter Jeff., r. Jeff, {hading card to Carrie). Some one to see you, Miss. {Aside to her). He seems dreflFul anxious. Sen. Who is it, Carrie? Car. {handing card). Mr. Lee. Sen. {reading). " Let me bid you farewell, Clarence." {To Jeff.) Request Mr. Lee to come in here. Jeff. If you please, sir, he was very particular to see Miss Carrie alone. Sen. Tell him that he can only see Miss Ely in the presence of her family. {Exit Je¥F., n.) Car. Oh! Major Sennett, I can not. Sen. Be brave, child. (Thorne goes to window, followed by Dora.) Pat. Hadn't we better retire. Major? Sen. Not at all. Stay where you are. Enter, Lee, 2r., who bows gravely j Cauhik stands ; Sen., Togg and Pat. sitting. Thorne {at window). Dora. Lee. Carrik. Sennett. Pat. Fogg. Lee {to Carrie). I had hoped to see you alone. Car. {timidly). My friends did not wish it, and — I could not have borne it. Lee. Very well. I have nothing to say that I am ashamed of. I am going far away. Miss Ely, never to return. I take with me many bitter memories, and one sweet one— the memory of your love. ACT HI. 49 Cah. I loved you because I knew you not. In my ig-norance and trust I believed in you. In the hour that the veil dropped from my eyes my love perished forever. Lee. If I had known you earlier T had been a better man. Hence- forth, Hope and I are strangers. I bid you farewell. Sen. One moment, Mr. Lee. Do you, perchance, contemplate a return to E<^ypt? Lee. Sir! Sen. It was there that I first knew you — ^by reputation. At that time, however, you bore a different name. Lee {with effort). In that respect, I believe that you and I have a like experience. {DoTix starts, and regards i^k^sk'tt- curiously.) Sen. With this difference — that I made my name honorable, and you draofged yours in the dust. Lee. Let us adjourn this discussion. Do not seek to dearrade me in the presence of the woman I love — of the woman who has loved me. Carrie. I will goto Uncle! For any injury you have done me, Mr. Lee, I forgive you; and I pray that the future may bring you peace. {Exit, L., Lee gazes after her intentli/.) Sen. As you wish to take the steamer presently, I will not detain you long. Your steps have been closely watched, and had you not sought this interview, you would have been arrested ere nightfall. Lee {sarcastically). It appears, then, that during our intercourse, Major Sennett has not disdained to carry some reserve cards — in his sleeve ! Sen. So it seems. I will play an ace, presently! When you left the Egyptian service, yoa carried away bonds for twenty thousand pounds. In the name of the Khedive, I demand re.stitution. (Lee expresses disdain.) In your breast-pocket you have securities to a large amount. Please give them to me. Lee. I am not aware that this country has any extradition treaty with Egypt. Sen. In order to realize on those bonds in London, you committed a forgery (Lee starts). Here is the application for your extradition; {hands papers to Ler, ivho examines them, tvith violent hut suppress- ed excitement,) diXiA here is the warrant for your arrest. You can estimate your chances before the judges at Westminster. Lee {quietly, hut shotving extreme emotion; taking out packet and laying it on table. Sex. examines contents). You send me out a beggar: and henceforth my hand will be against every man, as your hand is against me. I go forth into the darkness, with rage and des- pair in my heart; and you, who sit here, uutempted, safe, snug and comfortable, will despise and hate me. Pat. goes to book-case; Sen. touches bell; enter Jeff., r. Sen. Open the door for Mr. Lee. Pat. {admncing). No, Mr. Lee, we don't hate you. We think you have slighted your opportunities dreadfully, and we pity you. I hope ^ou'll repent, and consider your latter end (/jrt«(7s small volume). Please take this, "Aids to Reflection," and, maybe, it will prove a blessing. Lee {touching her shoulder). Stand aside, Madame. YoGG {getting before him). Have a care, sir — have a care. "The man who lavs his hand upon a woman, save in the way of kindness, is a wretch," against whom a sympathizing jury would give damages — heavy damages, sir! 50 AN AMKKICAN PASHA. Lee. Fogg, if ever you cross my path again, there'll be one more attorney in the devil's dominions. Out of" my way! {Exit Lee, ivhirlinr/ Fogg aside, ivho is caught hy Jepp.) Jeff. Caught out on the f3y! Fogg. That was a good catch, Jeff. Here is the dollar I owed you, the other day. Jeff. Thank you, sir. {Exit, r.) Thorne. After all, I'm sorry for the poor devil. Fogg {seating himself, r.) This is the day that he has to skip. Thorne. If ever I have a parrot, I'm going to name him "Honesty." Dora. Why so, Frank? Thorne. Because honesty is the best Poll, I see! Dora {at indicator). Oh, Frank, just look here! Thorne. What! "Transcontinental" 66—66^^—67! Victory! Sen. {comes forward). Have we passed the crisis? 1 can hardly realize it yet. I feel confused. Fogg {aside). Just as I felt when I was married! Thorne. " Transcontinental " 70. The " Shorts " must be trying to cover! Dora. What are " Shorts," Frank? Thorne. They're a kind of coarse bran —sometimes used for fat- tening bulls ! Enter Cortland, l., supported by Carrie. Dora. Oh, Papa, we are saved ! CoRT. Saved! {Looks around him.) I thank you, gentlemen — I thank you. {Sits in arm-chair, c. front.) Dora, my child, we have much to be thankful for. And yet — and yet {affected) it should not ha.ve been a stranger's arm that upheld my tottering steps. Your brother should be here to-day. Sen. {kneeling by Cort.) Sir, forgive me, I — Dora {leaning over Cortland's shoulder) Oh, Papa, how blind we have been ! He is here ! CoKT. {staring at him). My own boy! (Solemnly.) Thank God! Dora. Cort. Carrie. Sennett. Thorne. FoGQ. Patience. {Soft music; "Home, Stveet Home.") CUBT AI K. V. LiBRftRY OF CONGRESS 016 103 894 5