v2 VS4 t: [SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION.] PRICE, PER COPY, 50 CENTS THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. A Drama, in Four Acts, {For Male Characters Only.) With Stage Directions, Cast of Characters, Relative Positions, Etc., Etc., Etc. Edited and Published by J©Seph R. LiY©R3, M. 'ffl. NOTRE DAME, INDIANA UNIVERSITY PRESS. 1884. THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. A Drama, in Four Acts, (jFor Male Characters Only.) By A. L. v . ^. s \ ■ v k * With Stage IDirections, Cast of Characters, Relative Positions, Etc., Etc., Etc. ?^> Edited and Published by ^V University of Notre Dame, Indiana, SEP 23 1884, NOTRE DAME, INDIANA : UNIVERSITY PRESS. 1884. :*1 s^ 5 """ Copyright by J. A. LYONS. 1884. ' Jb, , SYNOPSIS OF SCENES. ACT I. The Student's brilliant, but brief career. ACT II. Boston— Mr. Martin's home — Distress of an aged Parent. ACT III. An Embarkation and a Duel— Fate of the treacherous Miser ACT IV. . The Prodigal reformed— His triumphant return. Tableaux. Time of representation, i hour and 40 minutes. Costumes Modern. STAGE DIRECTIONS. (The reader is supposed to be on the stage, facing the audience.) EXITS AND ENTRANCES. R. means Right; L., Left; R. D., Right Door; L. D., Left Door; S. E., Second Entrance; U. E., Uj>j»er Entrance; M. D, Middle Door. RELATIVE POSITIONS. R. means Right; L., Left; C, Centre; R. C, Right of Centre; L. C. Left of Centre. DRAMATIS PERSON/E. Frederick, A Law Student. Mr. Martin, his Father. Angelo, his Brother. Alfred, his Friend. Tightfist, A Wall-street Broker. Mr. Richards, A Friend of Mr. Martin. Professor Allgood, Teacher of Angelo. Gen. Watson, U. S. A., Commander of Zouaves. Harry, ^ i ' \- Friends of Frederick. Foster, EUGENE,J Phineas, A Visitor from the Emerald Isle. Dr. Fuzby, A Surgeon. Admiral Ross, U. S. N. Captain Henderson, U. S. N. Jesse, ~"| Jake, j Bob, [-Attendants. Spenser, Samuel, J 1st Newsboy, 2d Newsboy; 1st Citizen, 2d Citizen. 1st Sailor, 2d Sailor, 3d Sailor. Officers, Zouaves, Mariners, Citizens, etc. PREFACE. T HE Prodigal Law Student is intended as a dramatic representation of the dangers to which even the virtuous are subject, and is designed to impress the beautiful lesson of expiation, the only path whereby the faults of ignorance and thoughtlessness can be worthily effaced. Frederick Martin, the son of a well-to-do Bostonian, has been placed in a Law School, located in the city of New York. Succeeding in his studies, praised by his teachers, nattered and admired by his associates, on account of his superior talents, with the impetuosity of his ardent nat- ure and the imprudence of youth, he finds, when too late for him to re- trace his steps, that his love of pleasure has betrayed him, and that, by extravagant expenditures, he has involved himself so deeply in debt that he is unable to extricate himself. The discovery is not made known to him, however, before his father has come into possession of a knowledge of the facts. With the most perfect confidence in the integrity, the honesty, of his son's character, Mr. Ma-tin comes to the city to pay him a visit. Not finding him in New York, he is directed to Hoboken, where Frederick, with a party of young friends, is enjoying a banquet at his own expense. When his father is announced his painful embarrass- ment induces his companions to propose that Mr. Martin shall be led to believe that the feast is chargeable to "Lieutenant Harcourt"— a name assumed by one of them, and that Frederick is only an invited guest. The old gentleman is completely deceived by the ruse, and attributes the evident excitement of his son to anything but the true cause, while Tightfist the broker, who has been dodging in and out, by an "aside" explains the true state of the case. The broker, in the Fourth Scene of Act First, declares his determination to sell the old man's property in order to indemnify himself for money lent by him to Frederick, and the youth, though with painful emotion, in conversation with his father, tacitly sustains the ruse, and leaves his poor old father under the impres- sion that his son is a paragon of intelligence, virtue, and prudence. In the following scene an interview takes place between the broker and his victim, who states the case in its true light, and bitterly reproaches Tight- fist with his cruelty in taking advantage of his own inexperience. The Second Act finds us in the city of Boston. Mr. Martin relates to VI PREFACE. his friend Mr. Richards the circumstances attending his visit, as they appeared to his partial understanding, and the cool judgment of Mr. Richards takes the alarm at the mere mention of the " feast," but is un- able to shake the confidence of the unwitting father. The happiness of the peaceful home in Boston is strikingly revealed by a scene between Angelo, the younger brother of Frederick, and his amiable teacher Pro- fessor Allgood, where the affectionate esteem in which Frederick is held is touchingly displayed. Upon this domestic quiet, this paradise of. a happy home circle, the dark form of the Wall-street broker intrudes. In this scene Mr. Martin is made acquainted with the bitter reality. The sudden re- vulsion of his feelings is so terrible that all the eloquence of his friend Mr. Richards is barely sufficient to impress that resignation which his strong Christian faith, at last, obliges Mr. Martin to acknowledge. The Scene Fourth, of Act Second, presents Frederick in New York City, a little after midnight, about to take the train for Boston, in order to fore- stall Tightfist. He has determined to be his own accuser, and to throw himself on the mercy of the father he has so deeply injured. He stands a moment before the church, just as the clock strikes two, but he pauses only to exclaim: "The church! I cannot go there now! My heart is broken. There is no rest for me but at my father's feet," and the Scene closes. In Scene Sixth an interview takes place between father and son, in which the latter is driven forth from home. In Act Third, Scene First, we behold an ocean steamer, a noble man- of-war, about to embark on an important expedition to the Japanese seas, and this is followed by a scene in which old Mr. Martin is trundling a wheelbarrow, down at the wharf, in Boston. The broker appears, and soliloquizes on the disposition he is about to make of his newly acquired fortune, but is interrupted by a sudden and violent encounter with Phin- eas, a friend of Frederick Martin's, who drives him off the stage. The Prodigal Law Student had already entered the Navy, for his wounded spirit could not rest on land when his father's property was sacrificed to meet his own foolish expenditures. Farther on, the grasping miser Tightfist is met by friends of Frederick, who, with the impetuosity of passion, determine to avenge the injury done to their cherished friend. The sordid man is challenged to mortal combat, and falls, never more to rise, never more to commit the like cruelty upon other unsuspecting youths. Finally, after a series of daring exploits and wonderful successes, Freder- ick Martin returns to the city of Boston, an avowed hero. He meets his father and brother at the wharf, and they are the happy witnesses of his promotion from the office of Lieutenant to that of Captain. With fortune, fame, and an unsullied record, Captain Frederick Martin returns to his home. His first fault is nobly expiated ; he lives to show the power of PREFACE. Vll an upright will, in making reparation for the past, and in proving that the only wise manner in which to drown sorrow for our follies is to amend with persevering resolution. God will accept our good will, and with His approval there can be nothing difficult or impossible. Gen. Watson, in the closing act, eloquently refers to the motives which guided, the hopes which stimulated, the unswerving faith which actuated our hero from first to last, in his career after he had entered the Navy. Chance did not earn his triumph, but the tender Providence, who clothes the lilies of the field, and pilots the sparrows on the sea of ether, did not reject his hearty penitence. The Prodigal Law Student ACT FIRST. SCENE I. A Grove in the Suburbs of a large City, near a fine Residence. Table Spread for a Feast. (Enter, l. 2 e., Jake, Bob, Phine as, Spenser and Samuel.) Bob (placing the plates). Mighty fine day for Master Fred! He is a lucky chap! Spenser (with a significant twist of the head). Lucky- enough if he has a long purse! Samuel (coming forward, places his arms akimbo). Out upon you! What business is that to you? There is little likelihood that he would get up a feast like this if he had not plenty of chink; and old Tightfist, the miser, is too sharp not to secure himself on that point, you better believe! Spenser. Old Tightfist will make a grand speculation out of that youngster to-day, that is one thing certain. Fred- is making a high bill of it, if he did but know it. Old wines r canvas-backs, wild fowl, venison, salmon-trout — there is no end to all the fine dishes. What is old Martin? Phine as. Ould Martin! Indade and ye've left yer man- ners hung up wid yer night cap, I'm afther thinkin',, speakin' of yer betthers after that sthyle. What's the fellow ye mane by ould Martin? Spenser. Why, the father of this Fred Martin, the Law Student. He cuts a great figure in the world. His pedigree must be something great, I fancy. Bob (laughing). Now, just hear him once! How long since you came out of the back- woods, Master Spenser? Who ever thinks of pedigree nowadays ? That's old f ogy- ish! Why, man alive, I expect, some day, to be the greatest lO THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. man on Fifth Avenue, and everybody knows my dad. Ahem! my forefather — my immediate progenitor — hem! — was a street scavenger. Well, no matter for that! Phineas. Faix! and if it isn't afther bein' mishtakin' en- tirely ye are about the paddygry of the crayther. Och ! an' it's jist no paddygry at all, at all, that the lads gits in this westhern counthry. Begorra, ye'll have 'em talkin' about " Misther this " and " Misther that," but nivir the bit of a Lord or a Lady gits inside of the broadcloths, the silks and the vilvits sold west of Finnegan, O'Doherty & Go's, in ould Dublin, to be sure. Faix! and there's the sphot where ye can faist yer eyes, to yer hearts' contint, on the dukes and the earls, and the rale gintlemin! But sorra the one gits this side o'the wather. [Bows himself backwards against Sam- uel, r.] Samuel. Get about your business, Phineas! Keep your heels out of the soup, or I'll flail you soundly, you rascal! Behave, or I'll give you fits! Phineas. Moi! Moi! And ye'r gettin' yer back up for a bit of a fight, are ye? {Prepares for a fight.} Well, here is the lad that'll jest do the thing up jest to yer likin.' Samuel. It's a great pity you two fellows don't get the lockjaw, though I don't believe even that would keep your tongues still. There is gas enough in your pates to run the entire gas company out of business in a week. Phineas. Begorra! An' it's blarneyin' ye are. Sure an' it was niver the likes of Phineas ever wronged a human crayther, and he'll niver be cheatin' a reshpectable company out of the manes of earnin' an honest pinney now and thin. Samuel. Well, you better go to work and gather up the pieces, for the gentlemen will be here in two minutes, and you will get a small fee if they notice the blunder you have made. Phineas. Bedad! And who made the blunder if it isn't yerself, to be sure? And as to the fays of the young gin- tlemin, it's not the likes of Phineas to be cravin' after filthy lucre, at all, at all! Samuel. Well, you clear out with yourself! Come on, Jake! Come on, Bob! All hands! Let us hurry along in the kitchen. Those youngsters will come home from their hunting spree hungry as a pack of wolves. We will catch it if we are late! {Exeunt omnes r. u. e.) THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. I I {Enter Frederick, Harry, Alfred, Eugene, John, Foster, and others, l. u. e.) Alfred {tossing his hat). Three cheers for Fred Mar- tin, the jolliest fellow in the whole university! Foster {at the top of his voice). In the whole United States, you'd better say! Alfred. Three cheers for Fred Martin! Three cheers, boys! All. Hurrah! {All toss their hats, and shake hands with Frederick.) {Enter, l. 2 e., John, Bob, and Spenser.) John. Where is your game, Harry? It has gone down stream, I suppose! {All laugh.) Harry. ( jocosely.) It has gone along with the ammu- nition. That is all I know, for I have neither. John. Had plenty of ammunition when we started! Ha, ha, poor fellow! you are not much of a shot, anyhow, are you ! See him ! Hal, when you and 1 fight a duel you be sure and take your best aim, for then there will be no danger of your hitting me; ,_ >ut if not, you might hit me by accident. Alfred. Duel ! Hush with your noise ! What are you talking about? That is an obsolete word. It's lucky, Hal, that our dinner does not depend on your rifle. Frederick. Come, boys, don't be too hard. This is not fair play. It is bad enough to make a bad shot, without be- ing bantered to death on your poor marksmanship. But dinner is ready, boys. Let us sit up and enjoy our feast. Jake. Beg your pardon, sir. The viands are not quite ready. Will the young gentlemen have the goodness to amuse themselves while Samuel is on his way from the con- fectioner's ? Frederick. Yes ; we will do that. Hold a moment, Bob. Send in the musicians, and we will dance a little be- fore dinner. Bob {bowing profoundly). At your service! They will ask no greater pleasure. {Exeunt Bob and Spenser, r.u. e.) John. {Pompously.) Harry, you must give us a song: a real bona-fde, original song ; made out of your own head, without plagiarism, without theft, without a suggestion from 12 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. anybody, — and the whole party will forgive the unfortunate slips of the trigger which left you without any game. Harry. Excuse me, young gentlemen; but I see you are disposed to make game of me, because I was so unfortunate as to shoot none for myself. Spare me the broiling, if you please. {Enter Musicians, r. u. e.) John. Never mind that now. The song, the song! Frederick. After dinner, boys! Here comes the Or- chestra. Now for a Mazurka. {The young gentlemen take their places for the dance. The Orchestra plays one strain.') Oh, that is too slow! A jig! A jig! Let us have a jig! That is in better time to my pulses' dance ! ( They dance till Jake returns, and dinner is ready. Seat themselves at the table. Orchestra plays. Servants run hither and thither. Wine is brought in. Music ceases.) Foster. {Rising.) " Our munificent entertainer! May his health never fail him. May he never have one friend less than he has now; and may he live to see the Atlantic cable under full operation, with a railway track running along the entire line ! " Frederick. Gentlemen, you overwhelm me with kind- ness, and in return for the compliment you pay in the long life you wish me, I will say I trust you all may live to real- ize the accomplishment of your generous wishes, and upon that occasion I engage myself to give a feast. All shall be served to a portion of green cheese, sliced from the full moon, which, from very recent astronomical observations, it has been ascertained, is unquestionably composed of this delicious escu- lent substance. {Boisterous cheering and laughter.) Alfred. But the song! The song! Come, Harry, give us the song! Harry {sings): A merry song for a merry band, And a merry heart to make it ; For the bliss of the world, You must understand, Depends on how we take it. Chorus : Oh, ha, ha, ha! 'Tis a merry band, And merry hearts do make it ; For the bliss of the world, we must understand, Depends on how we take it. THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 13 Then laugh and quaff with a right good cheer, In spite of stormy weather ; Oh, laugh and quaff, for the sun shines here On hearts as light as a feather. Chorus : A toast for our host, A toast, "His Health! A prince in heart we find him ; May he ever be blest With joy and wealth, And no sorrow be ever assigned him ! " Alfred. Three cheers for Harry and his song! Hold on! A toast for Harry ! — " May the Muse always be as friendly to him as she is to-night. If his rifle fails to hit the mark, his song does not." (Bitter, l. u. e., Gen. Watson, Zouaves, etc.) Harry. Thank you, gentlemen. But, look! here come the Zouaves. Halloo! Halloo, boys! How are you, Gen. Watson? Gen. Watson. Well, sir! Very well, sir! Hope I see you all in good health. Frederick. Never better, General; never better! Whence do you hail ? ( Salutations exchanged.) Gen. Watson. Direct from the seat of war. Started on the 1 6th by order of the Commander-in-chief, who sends us to the Pacific coast with the Japanese expedition. Frederick. Ah! Oh, quite a voyage up to the yellow skins. Look out for pirates ! Gen. Watson (grasping his sword). A strong arm, a clear conscience, and God above! Are we not safe enough, gentlemen? Farewell, boys; farewell! Frederick. Farewell, and God bless you! Three cheers for the Zouaves, boys ! Hurrah ! ( Cheers. Exit, r. u. e., Regiment. Rnter Bob, l. 2 e.) Bob. Mr. Frederick, an old man is waiting outside to see you. He sends his name. Shall he be admitted? Frederick {looking at the card). Good heavens! It is my father! What will he say? Alfred. By your face, I judge, we have reason to fear. Eugene. The old gentleman does not favor jolly expen- ditures. Ah, I see! A bad state of affairs! What is to be done? 14 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Frederick (covers his face with his hands a moment}. What is to be done? Why, my father must be presented to you all, of course. ( Voice trembles.} He is a kind, good old father, and deserving of a better son. Alfred. No such thing! No such thing! There never was a better! All. That's so! That's so! Frederick. Boys, you must not blame me. My father is a good old man, God knows; but he is very frugal. It was his care and economy, in truth, that has enabled me to receive the advantages I now enjoy. How it will pain him when he learns of my extravagance. But, no! He mUst not find it out. Yet, what am I to do? John. Send him word that you are out of town. Frederick. And not see my dear old father? No, sir! Bad as I am, I never lied to him yet, nor will I now. Eugene. Why, Fred, some one of us can act the host. You may act as one of the guests. You can make it appear so, without any lying. Frederick. But that would be deceiving him. Alfred. Yet it is better to hide matters a little now, till you have time to see how to make all right. Come, I will be Lieut. Harcourt, and you be one of my friends. Frederick. Indeed, I am ashamed to be driven to this {thoughtfully'). But, very well. We cannot help it now. My poor father! How can I meet him! Alfred. Cheer up, man! Don't be a coward. You are doing the best you can. Frederick {with agitation). As you will. I will play my part, but I beg of you, gentlemen, to conduct yourselves in such a manner that my father will suspect nothing. That "wretched broker! Why did I permit him to inveigle me into this shameful position! {Enter Mr. Martin with Bob, l. 2 e. Frederick em- braces his father.) Frederick. Welcome! welcome, father! I hope you are well, and mother, and all at home! Mr. Martin. Yes, well! All well! And you, my son? Frederick [drops his head). Very well, father. THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 1 5 Mr. Martin. Your cheek is flushed, my son. You cer- tainly have fever. Frederick. It is from the excitement of meeting you, my dear father. Never mind that: but let me present to you my friends. Lieut. Harcourt, this is my venerable father Mr. Martin, of whom you have so often heard me speak. Father, this is Lieut. Alfred Harcourt, our noble entertainer. Alfred. With no common pleasure I greet you, Mr. Martin, as the father of my friend, and bid you a most cordial welcome. Mr. Martin. Thank you, thank you, Lieut. Harcourt! I am rejoiced to find that my son has rendered himself worthy of such honorable companions. Frederick. Excuse me, father; let me present to you also these, my other associates. Gentlemen, this is my father, Mr. Martin. ( All bow resfectfully.) Mr. Martin. You will not expect many compliments from an old man like me, young gentlemen; but I am sin- cerely glad to meet you all, and my hopes for you, my dear Frederick, I trust, are being realized. Alfred. Frederick is the pride of his teachers, and the favorite of his fellow-students. You have every reason, sir, to congratulate yourself on your son's progress in the study of Law, as well as in his decorum as a gentleman. Mr. Martin {approaching Alfred with emotion}. My young friend, you console me beyond measure, and I most heartily thank you. Angelo and Frederick are our treasures, you know. If any misfortune should happen to them, our old hearts would break. {Enter Tightfist, l. u. e.) Frederick. My mother ! Father, tell me of my mother! Mr. Martin. Oh, my son, she is almost childish in her love for you. "Frederick! Frederick! Frederick!" from morning till night. Has she any nice little titbits, it is — " O I wish poor Frederick had this! He is so fond of such things"; and the good old lady will refuse herself the pleasure of eat- ing them, as if by so doing she would rob you, though she knows very well that you will never get them. Ah, what a happiness it will be to her when she learns how much you are thought of. Frederick {brushing away a tear). Thank you, father. I hope she may always find me worthy of her great affection. l6 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Alfred. We regret, Mr. Martin, that you were not here on Thursday last to witness the triumph of your son. He then entitled himself to the first prize, offered for the best thesis on Statute Law. Mr. Martin {rubbing his hands in delight}. Is that true? Is that true? I am pleased to hear it. (Exit Tight- fist, l. u. e.) Frederick {aside, excitedly). Indeed, my young friends are carrying matters too far. To deceive my aged father unnecessarily is an insult to myself. (Aloud.) Father, my young associates flatter me. They speak too highly of my attainments. Mr. Martin. And this is better than all, my son. I am glad to see you modest when praised. Were you to boast, I should doubt your sound progress. Your mother will be glad to learn of your unpretending merit. (Tightfist re- enters, L.) Alfred (offering wine to Mr. Martin). Mr. Martin, allow us the pleasure of taking a social glass with you. Mr. Martin (motioning the glass away). No, no, thank you, sir! I never drink wine, sir. A man is safe only when his head is clear. Alfred. But, sir, you will find this very pure. I pray you do us the honor. It will do you good after the long journey. Mr. Martin. No, no, boy! I know your good heart, but I cannot take it. Frederick. Father, I wish to hear more about home. Will the young gentlemen have the goodness to excuse us? Alfred. We do so with reluctance, I assure you; but, Mr. Martin, if on your visit I can be of service to you, I beg you to command me; and, before we part, let me again as- sure you of the regular and excellent life your son has led with us, and our great pleasure in classing him with our dear- est friends. Tightfist (aside). The rascals! What fine faces they can put on a lie! Grand dinners every fortnight : that is the regular and excellent life he leads. Mr. Martin. Thank you, Lieutenant! Thank you, sir. Good-bye! We shall meet again. (Exit with Frederick, r. 2 E.) (Exeunt Alfred et al., r. u. e. Tightfist comes down, c.) THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 1 7 Tightfist. And shall I, an old fox, be caught at last? This young Martin is a rogue. He has passed himself off as richer than he is. Ah! He thinks to escape the debt! Hah! Escape John Ainsworth Tightfist? No, indeed! The man who owes me, pays his debts. So long as there is a detective, I will have my pay. The old Martin may have to suffer, but the young scapegrace may learn a lesson in the meantime. His bills have mounted up to quite a fortune. I will let him see them, and if he is not able to foot them, I will make the old man wince. {Exit Tightfist, l. u. e.) SCENE II. Another part of the Grove. {Enter, r. 2 e., Mr. Martin and Frederick.) Mr. Martin. With good manners and a good heart, my son, you will be able to win your way anywhere in the world. But there are dangers always, Frederick. Good principles are like good apples, my son. You must keep the one in an even temperature, and apart from the apples that are unsound, or they will rot. You must keep the other away from bad company, or they are ruined. Your young associates are all well instructed in their religion, no doubt? Frederick. Most of them, perhaps, make a better use of their instructions than I have done, father. Mr. Martin. Frederick, you pain me by always speak- ing so disparagingly of yourself. One would think you had done something wrong, but I trust not; and the bright smile, that used to be so much like sunshine, is often clouded, I observe; but I suppose you are homesick, poor boy! Frederick. Yes, father; I wish to talk about home. Is Angelo still pursuing his studies? Mr. Martin. Yes, and is doing well. Angelo has a very quick mind. He is a noble boy. I think we will have to let him be a priest, for that is what his mother wants. He loves his books. Study is like play to him, and he makes our fireside a little lecture-room every evening. How happy my children make me! Frederick. Is my mother troubled with the cough she used to have? Mr. Martin. Not so much as formerly. It depends a l8 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. great deal upon her spirits, and when she has nothing to trouble her mind the cough goes altogether; but if any- thing depresses her, she gets sleepless nights, and all the old symptoms come back again. Frederick. She was pleased with the shawl and the overshoes I sent her, I believe? Mr. Martin {laughing). Pleased is no name for it. She rides out every day just for the pleasure of wearing them, and each day they are the text for your eulogium. Frederick. Do our young fruit trees flourish well, father? Mr. Martin. Yes. They will bear next year. The plum-tree by the grape arbor bears blossoms, your mother says, that look as your face did when you were a babe, so full of glee and innocence that they make one smile in spite of him- self. We call that Frederick's tree. But, my son, what do | you find most difficult in your student life? Frederick. Indeed, father, I find few difficulties. My teachers express themselves as well satisfied. I have read Story, Chitty, Blackstone, Coke, and all the most distin- guished authors, and I think I have a good understanding of Law as far as I have gone. We students often argue supposed intricate cases, and our critics generally award the palm for ' the best plea to myself. But these are only imaginary. It might be very different in a real court of justice. Mr. Martin. That we can tell better when you are admitted to the bar, my son ; but I trust the subtleties of law will never lead you to swerve from the integrity and uprightness of purpose which are the main-spring of all hon- orable success. ( Dttring the dialogue they walk arm in arm, and thus pass off the stage, l. u. e.) {Re-enter Frederick, l. u. e., rushing in with face flushed, hair disordered, and in great exciteme?it.) Frederick. Oh! How can I look into my own heart! I have deceived my father: my dear old father! I have ruined myself! I have ruined my parents! Twenty-five thousand dol- lars borrowed and expended, and not one cent to pay! Why did I ever meet him? The deceitful scoundrel has written for reimbursements. O if T could but hide this from my father! [Enter Th;htfist, l.) Wretch, why are you here? THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Tightfist. I come on business. Frederick. Were you an embodied fiend you could not come on worse business. Tightfist. Keep your temper, young fellow; I come orm honest business. Frederick {furiously}. You do not! Honest business?' No, you wheedling old miser: you do not come on honest bus- iness. Is it honest business to impose on the ignorance of at thoughtless, inexperienced boy? Honest business to lend money, without stint, and never to warn him, old as you are, of his imprudence, of his excess? Is it honest to take advan- tage of my youth and folly ? Honest business ! ( Walks the stage passionately.) Oh, but your withered, pueseless MISER-HEART was too cold, when you were a boy, ever to conjide in anybody — in anyone f s HONESTY 1 so you were never deceived as you have deceived ME! Tightfist {scratching his head). You wanted the money, boy ! Frederick. But I had no idea how I was running in debt. Had you been an honest man, were you in honest business, you would have prevented, instead of driving me on to ruin. Tightfist. Well, pay up the bills, and all will be right. By a shrewd game {winks waggishly) or two, you can secure enough to start you on well. Do not be discouraged. Frederick {angrily). Wretch! Have you a heart? Would you drive me to the gaming-table, that you may count a little more gold? No! From you I have learned a lesson; I shall not forget it soon: it is to let all rascals alone! You would ruin me! You would ruin my father! Be off with you! Tightfist {coldly). When I show you your bills, young man, I will go. Here is only a little matter of twenty-five thousand dollars. I only ask you to pay it. Frederick {stamping, menacing the broker ;>. Begone, I tell you! You know — yes, very well you know — I am not prepared to pay. When you offered to wait on me for " any length of time" I expected to return all when once admitted to practice. I will not look at the bills! Begone with you, brutal man. [Drives the broker away. Exit Tightfist, r.) Twenty-five Thousand Dollaks! More than my poor 20 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. father's entire property is worth! I have ruined my father! I shall go wild with anguish! Fool that I was, to be cajoled by that miser's promises! {Exit Frederick, l. 2 e.) (Tightfist re-enters, R. Phineas enters, l. u. e.) Tightfist {feeling his head). The young scamp is quite eloquent. He will make a good lawyer, without ques- tion. Let me see! His father lives in Boston. I will take the morning train for Boston. The young fury came near giving me a broken nose. {Feels his nose.) Phineas [shaking his fist in the face of the broker). Faix! an'* if he had 'a smashed yer face fer ye he would have done a good turn fer the unfortunate craythers that must look at the likes of yees; and if he had cracked yer ould head fer yees, there'd be the one villain the less in the world. Och ! and indade, if a body can rade by yer faytures, little is the hope fer the lad that gets into yer clutches. See here, you spalpeen ! don't yer old phiz ache with ugliness ? {Business.) (curtain.) ACT SECOND. SCENE I. House in Boston. (Mr. Martin discovered, r. Enter Mr. Richards, l. 2 e.) Mr. Martin {shaking hands with Mr. Richards). Good morning, Mr. Richards. You have called, no doubt, to hear the good news of our Frederick. Mr. Richards. Yes, sir; and to welcome you back. We are all interested in Fred. A fine boy! A fine boy! He is doing well then, and everything is right about him? Mr. Martin {rubbing his hands with delight). I could not bring a better report of my son, Mr. Richards. He has made wonderful progress in every department of his profes- sion. He is the favorite of everyone. His manners are those of a prince. Really, Mr. Richards, though / am his father, I must say, I have seldom seen a finer looking young man. He associates too, sir, with the best society in the city. When THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 21 I arrived, my son was over in Hoboken, enjoying a grand feast with young men of his own age, who, to all appearance, were the flower of the city. Mr. Richards {shaking his head incredulously}. I am glad, Mr. Martin, to hear your good report of Frederick, but I tell you, sir, that feast does not sound well in my ears. Stu- dents are very wild sometimes, Mr. Martin, and I would rather a thousand times have heard you say that you found Frederick shut up in his room poring over his law-books. Mr. Martin. But, Mr. Richards, you would not have a youth make an old man of himself. The close confinement to his books would kill the boy, without some amusements. Mr. Richards. He should have his recreations, very true, Mr. Martin. But there is great latitude — yes, believe me when I say there are great temptations laid in the path of a young man when left free to follow his own inclinations,, especially, sir, when those inclinations turn towards feasting.. Mr. Martin, I do not wish to throw cold water on your hopes,, but I fear poor Frederick has been caught in a trap. Mr. Martin. No, sir! Do not be suspicious, Mr. Rich- ards. This was a holiday, and how could the poor boy refuse- the invitation? . Mr. Richards. It is far from me to willingly pain the heart of an affectionate father, but I have heard stories of" college youngsters all my life. They never know the cost of anything, the worth of money, the value of time. Give them full play and they are like puppies in a lady's dressing-room;: the best use they can make of the choicest treasures is to tear them to pieces, and toss them to the winds, — that's your college student. Yet, indeed, sir, I hope Frederick will turn out to be all you could wish, and that I am deceived. Mr. Martin. Do not doubt it, Mr. Richards; do not doubt it. The bov would never deceive me, sir. He has a heart too noble. Do not question his most profound reverence for his father. I have full confidence in the youth. Mr. Richards. Yes : perhaps with good reason; but I have known many a young man ruined by the confidence re- posed in him by his parents. Let me tell you, Mr. Martin : young men left without strict supervision — a little wholesome restraint— are like grain harvested too soon. The grain is mildewed: it i§ blasted j the boy is ruined: as a man, his best 22 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. prospects are blighted. Look at Gen. Holbrook's son; look at Charles Morton. Mr. Martin. But remember, sir, remember, Frederick is a very different young man: very different, sir. Mr. Richards. That may be very true, Mr. Martin; yet, staunch as his morals may be, I must insist that it takes far more than ordinary strength, more than common force of character, to enable a young man to succeed in life after he has wasted his best days in sporting; though I do not take upon me to say that Frederick is doing this, by any means. However, he may be greatly exposed. (Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards stand thoughtfully for a moment.") Mr. Martin {musingly}. I can but cherish great hopes for Frederick, Mr. Richards! great hopes for Frederick! [Ex- eunt, R. 2 E.) SCENE II. Apartment for study in the House of Mr. Martin. (Prof. Allgood seated at a table, l. Angelo seated at a desk near by, r.) Prof. Allgood. Hand me your book, my lad. Angelo. My lesson is not very well committed to mem- ory, Prof. Allgood. Professor. Recite to the best of your ability. What is a verb? Angelo. A verb is a part of speech which expresses be- ing, action, or passion. Prof. Allgood. Give the distinction between a noun and jsl verb? Angelo. While a noun is simply the name of something which exists, — a verb — (hesitates) a verb — implies something which is performed, or the state of existence. Professor Allgood. Let your replies be more prompt, >my child. What is the use of language? Angelo. Language is employed for the purpose of cora- •municating ideas. Professor. How many parts of speech are there? Angelo. Why — why — Professor, — there are — there are :a great many. THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 23 Professor Allgood. Ah, my child, your mind is any- where but on your lesson, this morning. You can gain nothing, Angelo, without application. Angelo. The lesson is very hard to-day, Professor All- good. It is dry. Professor Allgood (rising, removing his glasses, wip- ing them with his handkerchief}. Angelo, suppose I were to permit you to neglect your Grammar — because you think it dry, what would I have reason to hope from you ? Reilect upon the importance of this sublime study. It is the founda- tion, the science, of correct expression ; and expression, re- member, is the soul of the universe. Are you willing to pass through life with no rule to guide you in the proper use of words? Are you satisfied to say "I seen" for "I saw," or for " I have seen ? " Are you willing to let it be quite as agreeable to your ears to hear the expression, " I have not been no "where," as to hear that which is proper, " I have been no where?" O Angelo, the very thought is shocking. {Shakes his head.) Tut! tut! You must be more attentive my boy! Angelo. Excuse me, Professor Allgood, but I am con- stantly thinking of Frederick to-day. I cannot keep my mind on my lesson. Professor Allgood. Does that help Frederick? Does it help you? Will it hasten your meeting? Concentrate your mind on your work. Think of the science of Grammar as the basis of all rational communication of ideas: of conver- sation, of Rhetoric, of Elocution — in fact, of all the sciences, even of Theology; also of Law, Physics, Mathematics — for what would they all be were there no systematic medium of communication, such as is afforded by Grammar? Angelo. Yes, my dear teacher, I know that Grammar is very useful, but it is very dry to me, to-day. Professor Allgood {laying his hand on the head of Angelo). And you want recreation, I suppose. Ah, that is the way with these boys! Angelo, Angelo, I am sorry to see you so easily diverted from your task: but, my good child, as you are generally very diligent you may have the rest of the day to yourself. But you must learn self-control, Angelo. Self-control is among the greatest of all the virtues. It is the soul of all the rest. 24 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Angelo [embracing Professor Allgood). Thank you many times, my dear teacher! Indeed I have heard so much good news, that I cannot study. Professor Allgood. Well, well! Stay here and enjoy your recreation, and may God bless you, my child, (exit, l. 2 E.) Angelo. The truth is, I do so long to see my brother Frederick, my glorious, dear brother, that I can scarcely wait for his return. What a happiness it is to have such a brother as Frederick! I cannot see how boys can get along without having older brothers, I must say, though, there are very few boys who can boast of having brothers like Frederick. I think it is the happiest thing in the world to have somebody like him to love — a noble, handsome, learned fellow like him. He is the boy! Just think of it once! He is to come home in vacation, too! Hurrah! Where is my hat? Fred will be home next vacation! Who can stay indoors with such a thought as that in his head? Hurrah! Fred, brother Fred, will be home in six months, and I have not seen him in three years! Six months! six months! Only six months! {Exit, r. 2 E.) SCENE III. (Enter Tightfist, and Jesse the servant, l. 2 e.) Tightfist. This is Mr. Martin's house, is it? Jesse. Yes, sir, I will call him. You wish to see him, I suppose. Tightfist (indifferently). No great hurry. You may call him after a while. (He examines the walls, windows and furniture. Exit Jesse, looking suspiciously at Tight- fist.) Let us see this house. Well built! High between joists! Walls firm, lumber well seasoned befoi'e used. Ha! The old fellow should have been as sharp in building up his son's education. Splendid window glass, good furniture, premises well kept, good location, clean street! Let's seel (Counts on hisfngers.) Yes, yes; a sharp auctioneer would readily run the whole affair up to $25,000 — may be more: enough to cover the youngster's bills, and the extra expenses,, journey, etc. {Rubbing his hands, expressive of pleasure. \ Yes, a handsome little spec, I declare. What's here?' (Approaches a picture of the Blessed Virgin.) Ah! sure as my eyes, a painting by- one of the old "masters. Hope the old fellow does not know the real worth. If he does THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 2$ not, we will take good care that he shall not learn it. It can slide in with the other ornamental rubbish. It may hurt the old woman's piety {chuckling). He, he, he! She will have to thank me for this chance of practising the Christian graces. He, he, he! {Enter Mr. Martin, Mr. Richards, and Jesse, r. 2 e.) This is Mr. Martin, I presume. Mr. Martin. That is my name. And yours? Your face is strange to me. If I have ever met you. sir, I do not remember the time. Tightfist. Perhaps not. John James Ainsworth Tight- fist, Money Broker, 39^ Wall-street, New York City. That is my name and address. Mr. Martin. Tightfist! Wall-street! Money Broker!: You surprise me! I do not understand by what right you come into my parlor, sir. Tightfist. You may be still more surprised later on, Mr- Martin. Mr. Martin. You have made a grand mistake, I assure you ! You are in the wrong house. Let me show you to the door, and direct you to the right place. Tightfist. Not at all, sir! I have made no mistake. I came to Boston on business. Do not be disturbed. Every- thing is right. This is your house, I believe, Mr. Martin. Fine location. Mr. Martin. That is none of your concern, and I have nothing to say in the matter. Indeed I will have nothing to do with you ! Jesse, here, take this man to the gate, and direct him to the place he is searching after. Tightfist. There is no mistake, sir. However, I have a little important business to transact with you, Mr. Martin; and if we can have a private interview I can explain myself more fully. {Exeunt Mr; R. and Jesse, r. 2 e.) Mr. Martin. To me this is a mystery. I am sure that I never met you before. I have never even heard your name before. There is something wrong about these proceedings. Tightfist. Not at all. But we may as weHcome to the- business at once. You have a son, named Frederick Martin,, at the Aspenwald Law University, New York City. He is not so much of a stranger. He has often seen me. He know* my name well, but has never mentioned it to you. Probably not. 26 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Mr. Martin. My son! Ob, good God! What can this mean? (A slight pause. Mr. Martin ^«c^ the floor a few steps.) Well, well, go on, sir. What is the matter? Tightfist (coldly). The affair stands in this way, Mr. Martin. Young Mr. Martin, your son, is my debtor, for money loaned him by me, in the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars. It takes no small amount of money to enable a boy to live on the best in New York City. Mr. Martin (in an excited manner). You talk like, a maniac, man. What you say of my son is not true. I will not listen to a word (walks the room). Tightfist (measuring his words — rubbing his chin care- lessly). It is just as well to be cool about it, Mr. Martin. Your son is a youth who has found great demands upon his purse. He likes a gay horse, a good dinner, and to entertain his friends just about as well as any other young gentleman I know of. At all events, he has been flush with money, sir, and I have favored him with the use of what he wanted; but if you have any other way of paying me, I will not take the trouble of selling your little property here, sir. Mr. Martin (with a groan, staring wildly). Man! man! do you say this to me? — me! the boy's father? Do you want to drive me mad? (Pauses a moment. Looks up to Heaven, after which he goes to Tightfist, and says, in a tremu- lous voice:) And this comes on me in my old age! Sixty- five years, and never such a blow as this before! Indeed, sir, if I honestly owe you, Heaven knows I would not wrong you of a single farthing. But this is very hard to bear — for an old man like me, very hard to bear, sir! I think there must be some mistake about it, after all. There are other Martins in the city beside myself, Mr. Tightfist. Tightfist. As to your identity, sir, I am perfectly satis- fied. Here are the notes your son has given me. Collectible, you see, sir. You know his signature. Here, also, are his bills, Mr. Martin. {Enter Mr. Richards, r.) Mr. Martin (glancing over the papers). You are a base scoundrel! You do not deserve the name of man! You ought to be gibbeted! (Shakes his clenched hand in the face of Tightfist.) You are culpable before God for the ruin of my son, and His vengeance will come upon you, depend upon it — depend upon it ! Such wrongs do not go unpunished, sir. God is a just God! Your crime is worse than if you had THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 2*] stolen the money out of my pocket! You have done worse than take my money : you have ruined my son ! Tightfist [coolly, scratching his head). I have not long to remain in Boston. Let us to business. At what figure is your property assessed? You may as well talk coolly as to be excited, Mr. Martin. Mr. Martin. Ah! This is what I have heard of, but never seen before. This is adding insult to injury. What good will your money do you when it is the price of a human soul? {Shakes his Ji si at the broker.) Beware how you push this matter, Mr. Tightfist! Tightfist. I am armed, sir; I do not fear you! Mr. Martin {recoiling). And do you think that I would stain my soul with your vile blood? Do you think that I de- sire to take your life? That / would throw away my soul because you have ruined my fortune ? No, no, miserable wretch! Much as you have wronged me, Heaven knows I would a thousand times rather see you repent than to have you suffer the just penalty of your cupidity. But I cannot talk with you now! I cannot talk with you! ( Going towards Mr. Richards, r., who grasps his hand in condolence.) O Mr. Richards, your fears were too well grounded! This hard-hearted Wall-street broker has ruined my Frederick. My hopes are crushed. Poor boy! Poor boy! Alas! for Frederick. [More calmly.) This Tightfist has loaned him the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars, which the unhappy- child has squandered. But the most bitter part of the whole affair is, the boy has deceived me — the boy has deceived me! Undoubtedly, the feast he was enjoying, when I saw him in the city, was at his own expense. Tightfist. Just so. Mr. Martin [angrily). How do you dare speak, wretch? How do you dare raise your voice to condemn my son, when you have yourself fastened him down, chained him with your own filthy, miserly, grasping claws? Mr. Richards. My dear friend, I stand ready to assist you to the best of my ability. It is a doleful state of things, to be sure, but trust in God. Good will come out of it, be- lieve me, if you only have confidence in Him. Mr. Martin. Yes, yes; that is what I am trying to do, sir. Oh! but why do you not take that villain out of my sight? I fear I shall curse him, if he stays. Take him away! Take him away, I tell you! 28 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Mr. Richards. I beg you will leave the premises, Mr, Tightfist. These matters can be settled much better without irritating the painful wound you have already inflicted. Sus- pend action for a while, until we see what can be done. [Exit TlGHTFIST, R.) SCENE IV. Streets of New York. Two o clock in the morning. Sott Music from the Orchestra during the entire Scene. {Enter Gen. Watson, r., and Harry, l.) Harry. Good morning, General. Do you leave the city to-night? Gen. Watson. Yes, take the train in half an hour. Harry. But you have heard the trouble about Frederick, I suppose? Gen. Watson. Yes, and never had anything take the heart out of me so in my life before. If Fred had been a selfish, close-fisted, hard-hearted fellow he would never have got into this scrape. Zounds! It's always so! If a body has. a soul larger than a five- cent piece there is always some vil- lain ready to make some capital out of him, and grind him into the dust. {Enter Alfred, l.) The truth is, Hal, I have a good mind to take my hat and leave this world. It's just so in the army. Show a particle of merit, and you set your foot in a den of snakes. It's as much as your life is worth to earn an honest reputation. If you're mean, and care for noth- ing but your own comfort, you are a " respectable gentle- man;" but if you have any regard for other people as well as yourself, there is always some wretch of a Tightfist to sting you. Harry. That Tightfist ought to be shot. Fred isn't the first boy he has ruined. Alfred {coming forward, c). But he'll be the last : I'll see to that! Gen. Watson. Good! good! That's right, Alfred! Go ahead ! You have my hand for it [they shake hands). Alfred. Come on! Let's see if we can find him. (Ex* eunt Gen. Watson, Harry and Alfred, r. Enter Frederick, l,, muffled in his cloak. The clock strikes two.) THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 20, Frederick [looking up to the church*). Two o'clock! "The train leaves in fifteen minutes. Would to God I knew Tightfist had not gone on the morning train ! If I could only ~be there five minutes before him, just to tell everything with my own lips! Then my father might tread upon me; he might kick me out of doors — I would not care. I would die at his feet, and be happy. But that the scoundrel himself should tell it first! Indeed, I can never bear it. O stars, why -will you not take me on your beams that I may reach my home before the villain gets there! But no, no! I must wait! Oh, how different this is from the time of my leaving home! All was bright and cheerful then ; but one thought was be- fore me: to be an honorable, learned, and whole-souled man; to live and be the pride of my parents, that was my ambi- tion. Now, what a change! All is dark and desolate. There stands the old church, just as it was! It was dear to me then. Ah, and then I was happy. But what were my promises? Alas, perfidious soul! Tightfist has done his cruel work too perfectly. [Shakes his head.) The church! I cannot go 'there now. My heart is broken! There is no rest for me but at my father's feet. [Exit, r.) SCENE V. Room in Mr Martin's House. [Enter Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards.) Mr. Martin, So, then, it is no dream. It is the truth, the naked truth. Here I am, an old man, without one cent to help myself with. What I possess is worse than nothing: all involved. Then, to think of the boy's poor mother! How will she bear up under this news? Ah, this is the most pain- ful! Angelo, too! poor Angelo! He can never be educated. Mr. Richards, Mr. Richards, it takes a stout heart to bear up under trials like these! The sale too, I suppose, must take place to-morrow. Mr. Richards. Yes; that sordid ruffian-bioker will not delay a moment, Mr. Martin. Mr. Martin [impetuously). But hard as my trouble is, sir, hard as my trouble is, I would not change places with this extortioner for the world. Poor as I am, I am richer than he. I have never wronged any man in my life. No ; I never have wronged any man. I am honest, thank God, and 1 always mean to be. 30 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. Mr. Richards. The best way, Mr. Martin, is to think as little about these things as you can. Take what comes pa- tiently, preparing for the very worst, and hoping for brighter days, for they often come when we least expect them. Mr. Martin. But my poor wife, sir! I do not expect her to survive this blow. She idolized Frederick. Yes, sir, she idolized him. Mr. Richards. Yet it is not well to look forward to trouble. It comes soon enough, you see, without going out to meet it. Keep up a good heart, and this crash may even prevent some greater trouble in future. Mr. Martin. Oh, sir, but how can I forgive myself for sending my poor boy into the city unprotected, without a friend to warn him ? Why did I not anticipate this danger, fool that I was? Mr. Richards. Come, come, Mr. Martin, there is no use in dwelling on these things. It is better to look the future boldly in the face, and to let the past alone. Mr. Martin. Very true, Mr. Richards, very true. Well, the only alternative for me is to return to my old trade. I would buy a horse and dray, but that is too expensive so long as I have strength to trundle a wheelbarrow. Yes, I will go to work down at the wharf, just as I used to do. But Fred- erick ! — what can make up for my crushed hopes in him ? Mr. Richards. Angelo may be to you all that you have expected of your other son. Do not despair. Mr. Martin. Poor iVngelo! But 1 have not the means to educate him ; and the thought that my son is ruined — oh, sir, this is what drives me beside myself. Mr. Richards. Take heart! There are more ways than one out of a dark wood. Angelo may be saved by Frederick's sad fate. Angelo. [Runs into the room e.) Father, will you give me some money to buy a flute? I want to learn to play before Frederick comes home. It will be such fun when we are to- gether. Mr. Martin (mournfully}. Not now, my son; not now. Angelo (coming closer). Why, father; what is the mat- ter? What has happened? Mr. Martin. Go, my child; go to your play. Angelo {caressing his father). But, father, I cannot go THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 31 when I see you in such trouble. Father, I want to do some- thing to help you. Is it anything I have done? Mr. Martin. Angelo, go. Go, I tell you. Angelo {aside). I do not understand this — there is some- thing dreadful. Oh, I will go to the Blessed Virgin; I will tell her to help my poor old father, for 1 cannot bear to see him in such distress. She knows what is the matter. She will help him. (Exit, r.) SCENE VI. Same. (Enter Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards, l.) Mr. Martin. It is just as I told you: Ellen cannot bear it. It has killed her. I broke the news as gently as ever I could, but it was of no use. She fainted away, and she goes from one swoon to another. The doctors and servants are doing all they can, but there is no hope— her heart is broken. Frederick (rushing in r.u.e., and casting himself at his father's feet). My father! Father! you know all. Forgive me, and I will die for you! Mr. Martin. Wretch! away with you! You have murdered your mother! Out of the house, and never darken my doors again! Frederick. But, father, one word! I had no idea of what I was doing. Oh, father, hear me! Mr. Martin. Begone, begone, I tell you! Do not in- suit me with your presence. I shall go to your dying mother, but not to tell her that her murderer is in the house. Frederick (prostrating himself). Mercy, father, mercy ! Let me go to my mother! I kiss the dust! Forgive me! oh, forgive me! Mr. Martin. Never! Leave my house! Frederick (rises, struggles with his feelings, casts one look of affection and fear upon his father, goes to the side of the stage, l., and says, aside). It is just! (Clasps his hands, lifting them towards Heaven.^ Heaven! oh, give me the strength to bear this merited judgment— to live— to atone ; and in Thy sight, and in that of Thy angels, I vow to live forever upright. {Exit, l. Curtain falls.) 32 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. ACT THIRD. SCENE I. New York City. A Wharf. Phineas, in Sailor's Costume, and Tight- fist, on the Deck of a Steamer. Phineas {looking about the steamer). Bedad! an' what is the crayther after doin', to be sure ? Faith, an' she is a gettin' out of port. Bad luck to yees, capt'in! What for do yees unhitch yees horses before the time, yer honor? (Staggers towards Tightfist.) Och, honey! an' is it ship- board we are, or is it overboard? Bedad! Whist, now! Either it's my head's a swimmin' — or it's the ship's a sailin', whichever it is. Och! yees ould rogue! What's this? Faix! Is it the ship's riggin' ar is it a wheelbarry! (Slaps Tjght- fist in the face.) Get out of the way wid ye! (Exit Tight- fist on the opposite side. Enter a number s the absence soon shall meet its term, — That his sad race of penance soon be run. God smiles on virtue, and at last we find The youth returned, by wealth, by honors, crowned ; Heightened each grace of body and of mind, " The dead's alive at last; the lost is found! " The father folds his Frederick to his breast, The son's bright laurels kiss the father's feet, Faults are forgotten : wrongs are all redressed, High purpose triumphs o'er the World's deceit. Our honored audience, should you behold Aught in our mimic of the Play of Life In virtue's ways the youthful heart to mould, To make us earnest in the coming strife. Should avarice appear a hideous thing, Should patience in affliction seem more fair, Should contrite tea's faith's glorious rainbow fling Across the clouds of penance, grief and care, In tranquil splendor, Heaven our work shall bless ; You will be satisfied with our essay, Our efforts crowned with the desired success, And all made better by our little Play. 48 EPILOGUE. EPILOGUE. Thank you for your kind attention, And should you, in after day, Of our efforts e'er make mention, Treat us leniently, we pray. If, perchance, the due perfection We have not achieved in this, We shall seek to make correction, Nor advice shall take amiss. Have we pleased you, — we're delighted, And we shall in future aim To increase the hopes excited By our callow present fame. To the boys there is one moral From poor Phineas they may learn, — Should they seek to win the laurel, Wine and wassail they must spurn. Had our Frederick drowned his sorrows In the false and tempting bowl, Swift as flight of well-aimed arrow He had lost his noble soul. But, adieu! The benediction Of High Purpose, through the year, Rest on all, without restriction, Who to-night assemble here. Mi r*m New Books. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 400 172 8 is -o- JOSEPH HAYDN. — The Story of His Life, translated from the German of Franz von Seeburg by the Rev. J. M. Toohey, CS.C, Vice-President of the University of Notre Dame, Ind. 350 pp. Price, ------- $1-50 THE AMERICAN ELOCUTIONIST and Dramatic Read- er, for the use of Colleges, Academies, and Schools. Contains the celebrated Drama, " The Recognition." 468 pp. Price, - - $150 THE HOUSEHOLD LIBRARY OF CATHOLIC Poets, from Chaucer to the present day. The only work of its kind in the Language. Subscription Edition (with an admirable portrait of Chaucer). Price, $500; Cheap Edition, - - - $2.00 THE SCHOLASTIC ANNUALfon88 4 . Ninth Year. Price,2 5 c Other Books in Preparation. NEW PLAYS. FOR MALE CHARACTERS ONLY. THE MALEDICTION. A Drama in Three Acts. Translated and adapted from the French. Price, .... 50c IF I WERE A KING. A Drama in Four Acts. Price, - 50c LE BOURGEOIS GENTILHOMME; or, the Upstart, a Comedy in Three Acts. Adapted from the French of Moliere. Price, ------- 25c ROGUERIES OF SCAPIN. A Comedy. Translated from the French. Price, ... ... 25c THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. A Drama in Four Acts. Price, - - - - - - - 50c THE EXPIATION. A Drama in Three Acts. [Only a very few copies on hand.] Price, - - - - - 50c Other Dramas in course of Preparation. Any of the above publications sent free of postage on receipt of retail price. A liberal discount to dealers and those purchasing in quantities. Address, J. A. LYONS, Notre Dame, Ind. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 400 172 8