U^0 9<^ THE SEA-ROBBER.. H Co metro in Six lets. BY LEROY M'MMINCS. BRUNSWICK : H. \V. HOWARD PRINTING CO. [888. THE SEA-ROBBER 3 ComrtH) in Sbix Sets. } BY LEROY CUMMINGS. ( APF; 191888 r ) BRUNSWICK : II. W. HOWARD PRINTING CO. 188S. Copyright [888, By Lercs l - All rights reserved. 1W P92-009000 SYN< >PSIS. Sir 'I'iinothv Twillyn, a pedantic Englishman, whose pride of birth 'leads him to cling to the manners and costumes of antiquity, is very desirous that his niece shall marn an officer of the United States' Navy. Though an orphan and dependent upon the bounh of her bachelor uncle, Kacilla Trawl, nevertheless, has certain ideas of her own con- cerning the proper restrictions to be set upon her personal liberty Contrary to her uncle's commands, Kacilla persists in the habil of steal- ing from the house after the old gentleman has fallen asleep. In one of her evening rambles along the shore, Kacilla overhears a conversa- tion between Captain \nthon) and Myra Auber. Kacilla discovers that the Captain is transferring his attentions to herself merely to gain her uncle's wealth. This knowledge results "in a dom stic quarrel a little later, wherein Kacilla's wilful resentment sets at defiance both Sir Timothy's preferences and < 'aptain Anthony's anticipations. But during the particular twilighl excursion to which we refer. Kacilla makes tin acquaintance of a sea-robber, by whose opporture appearance she is rescued from the designs of two drunken sailors. Kacilla's acquaint- anceship with the sea-robber leads to the plundering of Sir Timothy's house b\ a gang of freebooters, the robber} being followed b) Kacilla's elopement with the chief of the buccaneers. frantic at the loss of certain documents upon whose preservation depends the proof of his noble descent, Sir Timothy) in company with Captain Anthony, puts to sea in pursuit of the pirates. Meantime Myra Auber, whose faith in 'aptain .Anthony's ultimate repentance is justified by subsequent events, lias concealed herself aboard the vessel, disguised as an apparition. Deserting Myra for the selfish purpose of gaining Kacilla's dowry, (aptain Anthony is feeling the power of a remorseful conscience, when an attack from the pirates forces Myra to reveal her identity; this event is followed by forgive- ness and reconciliation. Captured by the sea-rovers, (aptain Anthony, Myra, and Sir Timothy Twillyn, are borne as close prisoners to the isle of Mora, where Kacilla first discovers the fact thai her uncle is among the pirates' captives. Wearied by this time of the clangers of a sea-rover's life, Victor Baretti accepts the terms of pardon offered him by General Jackson. Securing the good-will of Sir Timoth) Twillyn, who has suddenly lost his esteem for Captain Anthony, the pirate chief, with his passengers, sets ^ail for the country that has proffered him the immunity ol citizen- ship. The events of li\< ays - lay; the incidents of the first three acts happening upon three successive evenings; the exploits of the fourth day are shown in the fourth and fifth acts, while upon the fifth day transpire the closing incidents of '\\r drama. The seventeen characters introduced in this play may be represent- ed by eleven persons. Assigning to one lad}- the repr< sentation "f the double rol- of Myra Auber and Betsey Boneset, one actor may depict the parts of Jonas Sage and Simon Klash; another may 'he allotted the triple role of Pluto. Jim. and the Messenger; while a third ma\ assume the parts of Tom and Chaos, leaving a fourth acl - • the characters of Bill and Bacchus. )RAMATIS PERSONS. SIR TIM< THY TWILLYN, racilla PR WYI , BETSEY ! J( >NES ET, MYRA \l FBER, VH TOR 1 \A RELIT, SINK >N l-'i ASH, ROBERT ANTHONY, [< >NAS SAGE, ZEBEDEI- GNOME, TOM, ) BILL, - JIM, ) CHA< >S, PLUTO, I BACCHUS, I A Pompous Englishman \uue to Sir Twillvn Housekeeper to Sir Twillvn Phantom of the Trojan < aptain of the pirate ship, Vampire ( )fficer of the Vampire Captain of the war ship. Trojan ( >fncer of the Trojan ( lardener to Sir Tw illy n Page to Sir Twillvn Sailors Pirates A Messengei Scene. — Pensacola, Tlorida, and the Gulf of Mexico, in the year 1814. V. : kJ^ssi^i^ 1TIE SEA-ROBBER. ACT I. Sckxk. — The rugged sea-shore near Sir Timothy Twii.i.v.n's house at Peusacola. Twilight. Enter Racii.j.a Trawl. Rai ii. i a. — {Solus.) Oh, my gracious, what a fine sea- view I Uncle Timothy forbids me wandering out of doors at night, but I should fly from my window on a broomstick. if there were no other means of escape from the dull, old house. The idea of my fussy, old uncle shutting me under a roof at dark, like a nun in a cloister, just because he thinks there are wicked men about — the idea ! But by listening at the key-hole of his chamber door. I know when to outwit him — my goodness, how he snores! In the estimation of very discreet people, it may seem a little rash for me to ramble on the shore alone, but I snap my fingers at very prudent folks and do just as I please. Why, who can that be coming up the beach? If I live, it is Captain Anthom walking with a lady ! And Captain Anthony has been [lay- ing me particular attentions of late, too ; calling me his own dearest dear and darling, and so dazzling my delighted uncle that the poor, old gentleman chatters continually about swords and epaulets. But, hush ! the captain and his com- panion are coming this way. ( 'an it be that ( 'aptain Anthony is a deceitful, scheming man? Anyway it is my right to 8 THE SKA-ROBBER. know what this meeting means. (As Racilla conceals her- self behind a jutting cliff, ( !apt. R< >bert An l'h» >ny «»^ M \ i< \ Vuber r///W\ ('apt. Am mom wearing a naval uniform and sword. ) Anthony. — Be not grieved, Myra, that our flirtation is at an ttm\. Surely you were aware from the first that my in tentions were not serious? Myra. — How should 1 know that you were trifling. Robert, when in declaring your affection, you seemed always so earnest. Anthony. — But — well — in fact, Myra, if 1 have made some foolish professions, it was always with the belief that you understood the light value of such sentimental nonsense. Myra. — Ah, Robert, I hope you may never regret those words ! Have you ever found me otherwise than faithful and sincere ? Anthony. — You certain!) have been very considerate of my welfare. Myra, but I think — that is. I find a change in my prospects that forces me to abandon some of my past purposes. Myra. — Very well, Robert, if you are tired of my society, you are free to seek more agreeable company ; but I know that the hope of gaining her uncle's fortune is the cause of your sudden fancy for Racilla Trawl. Anthony.— Well — 1 — in fact. Myra. I confess that I am in close circumstances : my salary is too meagre for me to be generous. 1 am really compelled to increase my income in some way. But you will release me from any pledges given in the past, will you not. Myra? Myra. — Certainly, I release you from all past promises, Captain Anthony, and 1 wish you every joy that the future PHE SEA-ROBBER. can bestow ; may no memory of by-gone days disturb your happiness. Anthony.— Let the follies of the past be forgotten, Myra ; we now are wiser through experience. But the hour is late and the winds grow chilly ; let us be going. {Exeunt Capt. Anthony and Myra Auber, while Ractlla steps from her concealment. ) Racilla. — {Solus.) Goodness gracious ! can J trust ni\ ears? ts Captain Anthony so mean as to break an engage- ment just to get m\ down ? J guess when he visits me again, he will find reason lor astonishment. Mercy me ! two horrid looking men are coming this way — what shall 1 do — and they av- wrangling right in the path — dear me ! I wonder if I can keep so .quiet that the} will pass without seeing me? (As Racilla seeks the shelter of a cliff, the sailors Thai and Bill enter and stand gazing around in drunken perplexity.) Tom.— Which way is n-nor'east, Billy? I've I— lost my bearings. Bill. — Splinter my g-gaff, if J know ! — queer country, Tommy, m-mighty queer country — roads all r-run in circles — walk all n-night and get n-nowhere. Tom. — M-mighty strange, Billy, m-mighty strange we can't find the m-marine barracks. Bna..— Where the d-devil are we? everything's sh-shifted. I'm all right at sea. Tommy, with a b-broken rudder and a bl-black eye. but I get b-bewildered on land — beats the doldrums, bl-blast the luck ! {Pointing at Racilla.) What's that o-over there ? Tom. — That's the m moon, Billy, that's the moon, Billy iO THE SEA-ROBBER. boy- My gr-granddaddy was a 'stroriomer, Billy, and st- studied the moon. Bill. — That's no m-moon, Tommy, that's a m-mermaid ; let's c-catch her, Tommy. Racilla. — Dare to come near me. you wretches, and I'll scream for help ! Tom. — Beg p-pardon, Miss Cherry Chickadee, n-nobody lives round here ; anyhow me and Billy can't f-find nobody. Strike your c-colors Miss Chickabiddy. Racilla. — {Catching up a stone.) Dare to come one step nearer and this rock shall smash your face ' ( Enter Victor Baretti, clad in sombrero and mantle.) Baretti. — Get you gone, you meddlesome miscreants, get you gone '. Bill. — Aye, aye : but wh-which way is it to the m-marine barracks? Blamed if Tommy — Baretti. — {Drawing a rapier from beneath his mantle.) Begone, miscreants, begone ! Tom. — -Run, Billy, r run for your life, the blackguard has pulled a bl-blade ! ( Exeunt 1\>m and Bill in haste.) Racilla. — Oh, sir ! 1 thank you for driving those brutal men away. Baretti. — My weapons and my life are at your service, lady ; is it far to your home ? Racilla. — No, not far, sir ; my uncle's house stands in the locust grove on the hill. Baretti. — This lonely coast is a very perilous resort to frequent ; do you often come here? Racilla. — Quite often in pleasant weather, sir; but my uncle is very strict and has many times forbidden me visit- IHE SEA-ROBBER. I I ing the shore, but when he falls asleep. 1 often wander to these twilight cliffs. Baretti. — Truly a strange region for a pleasure-loving maid to haunt. What attraction can there be in craggy cliffs and misty tides to bring you to this place? Racilla. — Ah. sir. if 1 keep coming to the shore a sea- witch may sometime bring me magic wings and then 1 can fly with the petrel and the albatross away and away forever. Baretti.-— Truly a pretty dream, but if the witch should never come with the magical wings, what then, my Sea- nymph ? Racilla.— -Hut I think, sir, that the witch will come, if 1 wait and hope. Baretti. — But while you were waiting for the uncertain gift of wings with which to fly away, would you refuse a chance to sail away into the far, mvsterious regions of the sea ? Racilla. — That. sir. would depend upon who should make me the offer of a voyage. Baretti. — But suppose it were an Italian Marquis, the commander of a pirate ship? Racilla. — Do Italian Marquises ever command pirate ships, sir? Baretti. — They sometimes do — especially after they have been chased out of the harbor of Genoa by the king's hangmen. Racilla. — 1 onte saw some pirates in prison, but they were such shaggy looking demons that they almost frighten- ed me. Baretti. — But the Italian Marquis of whom I speak, never was and never will be in jail ; he is the most crafty of THE SEA-ROBBER. ocean rovers. Mis dark ship sweeps the sea like a tropic typhoon ; the fleets of every nation flee in terror from his path. Racilla. — How glorious it must be to frighten folks so : I scared uncle Timothy almost to death last night — dear me, how he scolded just because 1 laughed '. Baretti. — An'd the saloon of this pirate ship is more gor geous in its beauty than are the wondrous halls in the palaces of Damascus. And there is a secret island in the sea. known only to the voyagers of this pirate ship, and above this isle in the ocean solitude the palm groves rustle in the summer wind ; but far within the isle there is a grotto whose splendor is like the glory of a dream. Racilla. — Why, it must indeed be a lovely spot. Bareiti. — Would you not like to visit, such a beautiful cave, my Sea-nymph ? Racilla. — If it were possible for me to reach it. I should like very much to visit such a pretty place. Baretti. — But it is possible for you to go to this grotto, my Peri. Racilla. — How could I get there, sir? have you ever seen the ca\ era 'f Bareiti.— Ah, many a time ; 1 am that Italian Marquis of whom 1 have been speaking. Racilla. — (Starting.) Mercy, sir ! are you a pirate? Bareiti. — Hush, my Peri ! I am leagued with the dark vendetta of the sea — 1 am a pirate, but bt? not afraid. Racilla. — But you do not seem like the grim sea-robbers, sir. of whom such frightful tales are told. Baretti.— We are not so bad as the legends make us; we rob the wealthy, but we spare the weak. But what say THE SEA-ROBBER. 13 you, my charming Sea-nymph, would you not like to share the pirates fate? would you not like to sail with him afar, the love-crowned empress of the sea? Racilla. — I know not what to say : my life is dreary here. Baretti. — The richest robes from the looms of Khorassan, and tiie brightesl gems from Brazilian mines — these are yours, all yours, as the pirate's bride. Racilla. — I will go — I trust your truth. Baretti. — Must sweetly said, my Peril Soon you shall reign in splendor, the light of my breeze borne palace and queen of my ocean isle. {Salutes her.) 1 pledge my loyal oath. Racilla. — Ho we sail to-night? Baretti. — By my soul, I wish we might cruise away this bl ! hut the moon will soon he up, and the coast-guard is now alert ; so we must wait, the gloom of a cloudy night for our departure. Can I meet you again soon? R villa. — You might come up to Uncle Timothy's garden tomorrow night ; 1 will be there. Baretti. — If the halls still stand mid the seas still roll. 1 will surely come. But it is growing late, my charmer, so let me guide you to your uncle's gate. {Exeunt Victor Baretti and Racilla Trawl. Enter Tom and Bill.) Tom. — By [-Jerusalem ! — same pi -place again. Bill. — Z-'Zounds ! Tom. — Never saw the b-beat of this, Billy, never saw the beat of th-this — never shall get no-nowhere. Bill. — Why the d-deuce don't they blow the b-bugle-horn at the barracks? the blubbers know we're 1-lost. Pom. — Wh-What do they care, Billy, — the v-villains ! 14 THE SEA-ROBBER. Bill. — Beats the d-devil, Tommy, what a m-merry-gq- round we've g-got into — dash me ! Tom. — Nothing m-merry 'bout it — feet all bl-blistered, Billy. Bill. — What the th- thunder shall we do— sl-sleep on a 1-ledge? Give us the c-compass, Tommy, let's tr try it again. 'Tom. — {Producing a flask and a compass.) Which is the c-compass, Billy? — d-dash my eyes ! Bill. — ( Taking the compass.) Bl-blamed swindles, b-both of 'em. Tom. — Mighty in-mean to swindle s-sober men like you and m-me, Billy, with such rickety st-steering gear — mighty m-mean, Billy. F>ill. — By j -jingo, 'Tommy, I've got the n-nor'east ! g get off of my feet ! — can't you t-take my word for it? you dim- eyed g-gun-swabber ! Tom. — Don't get in a d-dudgeon, Billy, don't g-get in a dudgeon. Bill. — Larboard, 1 -larboard — we'll b-bunk in the barracks ! Tom. — Aye, aye, Billy, aye, aye, Billy boy. {Exeunt Tom and Blli. Curtain falls.) \CT. II. Sckne.— -The walled garden adjoining the veranda of Sir Timothy Twillyn's 'house. An arbor in view. Evening. Enter Sir Timothy Twillyn and ("apt. Anthony upon the veranda, Sir Timothy dressed in an ancient British costume of periwig, coat, and breeches. Anthony.— You do wrong. Sir Timothy, to repine so bit- terly over your fate, when the blessings von enjoy merit your deepest gratitude. Twillyn. — {Sighing.) Ah. well-a-day, well a day. well-a- day ! this desolation of environment is unbearable, Captain, quite unbearable to a scholar of cultured tastes; isolation among barbarians hath no mitigating joy. Ah me ! how perceptibly hath discontent wasted mine olden vigor! Be seated. Captain, be seated, sir : we can converse upon this settee with less fatigue to our limbs. ( They seat themselves.) Alack-a-day, alack a-day ! would to God I were in merry England ! What sorry bedevilment of misfortune possess- ed me to seek this savage land? Anthony.— But dwelling here in your own pleasant home by the sea. apart from the rude tumult of the world, surely. Sir Timothy — Twillyn. — Qualities of gentility are scorned in this barbarous country— utterly scorned. I repeat. Why, Captain. this day— this very day, sir. I cited a text from Herodotus thai did most aptly sustain an argument by myself advanced, —thereon, mark what befell ! Herodotus was jeered — I 6 THE SEA-ROBBER. Herodotus the scribe of ancient Greece, whose words art music to the scholars soul — Herodotus, I say, was shrill) jeered by the vile crowd of cattle- herders ! And. sir, the ex- pounder of Grecian wisdom, even myself giving enlighten- ment, was mocked and loudly hooted through the streets by fish- mongers and by tools ! Ah. well-a-day ! fain would I tor- get the world and its follies. Such events but bring to mind the adage of the pearls and swine ; the mob's derision ever drowns the voice of true philosophy {Produces a snuff-box aud sniffs a pinch of its contents.} Ah me ! would to God I were in good, old England, the land of lettered men ! but what word. (Sneezing.) what tidings. Captain, from the sea . J Are the villainous buc — (Sneezing.) are the villainous bucca- neers abroad ? Anthony. — Certain signs indicate the possibility of dan- ger, Sir Timothy, and it would be a wise plan for you to stoutlv bar your doors at nightfall. Twillyn. — Eh, Captain? buc — (Sneezing.) buccaneers seen about, eh ? Anthony. — Returning fishermen report a dark, suspicious craft drilling shoreward at sunset: but feel no fear. Sir Timothy, it is probably only a sailor's idle story : still it would be well to look with care to die fastenings of the doors at night. Twillyn. — I perceive, (Sneezing.) I perceive, sir. The purport of this admonition suggests caution without trep— (Sneezing.) without trepidation, the supreme attribute ot militar) sagacity. Ah me ! as the last of the warlike Twillyns, it behooves me to maintain mine ancient fame of ancestry to a glorious close, magnificient in its martial dignity. Should buc — (Sneezing.) should buccaneers attack me. I THE SEA-ROBBER. I 7 pray God 1 may gain good time to don mine armor; in a suit of -lira mini;' mail a Twillvn is clad for hav — (Sneezing.) is clad for havoc. Alack-a-day J what be — (Sneezing.) what bedevilment hath entered this unaccountable snuff that it should explode in my nose like gunpowder? My dear Cap — (Sneezing.) my dear Captain, I beseech you to ex- amine the quality of this most singular snuff. God's bless jug 1 how my nose tingles and how mine eyes do weep ! Anthony. — (Sneezing as he examines the contents of the snuff-box.) If my judgment may be trusted. Sir Timothy, this powder is not snuff, but pepper. Tyvili v\. — ( Examining the snuff-hex critically. ) Pepper ? — impossible, ( aptain, impossible, sir ! By what miraculous process of witchi raft could pepper get into this receptacle? But you are right, Captain, by Nicodemus, you are right, sir — it is pepper ! But how — ah, I comprehend, I compre bend ! Through deficient discrimination in such matters, my housekeeper, Betsey Boneset, hath mingled her culinary condiments with my sm\\[. Ah me ! it is again my im- perative duly to administer a reprimand concerning such blunders. (JR. ising and stamping his foot.) Betsey Boneset, do you hear me? Betsey Boneset ! Betsey. — (Entering upon the veranda.) What now. Sir Timothy ?— why, mercy, Sir, you have been weeping! rwiLLYN. — Weeping ! By Nicodemus ! who would not weep with his nostrils full of pepper? Exonerate yourself, Betsey Boneset, exonerate yourself, if possible, from the suspicion sc> the ex- tremity of honest patience. Alack a-day ! it only remains tor rat poison to be mistaken for sugar in the kitchen when there will be employment for the sexton, through the be- devilment of death's climax. Once again, Betsey Boneset, I do imperatively command you to be more disi reet in your discriminations in regard to the essential difference existing een my snuff and the culinary condiments of the kitchen. \nd now. Betsey Boneset. can you inform \\w as to the whereabouts of mv niece. Racilla Trawl? THE SEA-ROBBER. [9 Betsey.— Complaining of headache, she has retired to her chamber — Twillyn. — Headache, eh? It is a singular, a very singu lar coincidence, Betsey Boneset, that upon the appearance 1 of Captain Anthony my niece should be prostrated by head- ache—a very singular coincidence, by Nicodemus ! But the atmosphere is growing chilly, Captain, let us retire within my residence. Anthony. — (Rising.) Your pardon. Sir Timothy, but 1 am due at tlie Admirals quarters in an hour and must now oing. Please express to your niece my disappointment at not meeting her this evening. Twillyn. Ah me ! I deplore your early departure. Cap- tain, but 1 am constrained to acknowledge that punctual attention to duty in an imperative requisite of worldly ad- vancement; therefore I relinquish the pleasure of your company with that cheerfulness so becoming to a philosopher. only hoping to again enjoy your society to-morrow evening. ^h me ! I find in convivial intercourse the only solace from the dismal power of melancholy. \\nio\v. [f possibly, Sir Timothy, I will visit you to- morrow night. I now wish both Miss Boneset and yourself a kind adieu. Twillyn. — Good night, Captain Anthony, good night, sir. (^//Captain Anthony through the garden-gate.) Alack-a- day ! God's blessing! my head is dizzy; I could feel but little worse, Betsy Boneset, had I been blown over the church spire by a powder-mill explosion. Betsey — Truly, Sir Timothy, I regret this unhappy acci- dent, though I am innocent of the mistake that discomforts you. J<) ['HE SEA-ROBBER. Twillyn — Betsey Boneset, it is vain Tor you to proclaim yourself guiltless of confounding my snuff with kitchen spice — utterly vain, Betsey Boneset: your dominion over the ■kitchen precludes the possibility of others mingling the culi- nary condiments with my snuff. Ala< k-a-day ! Alack-a-da) ! assist me within, Betse) Boneset, assist me within ; in th< 1) :devilment of this emergency no head mav be rated m value with a rotten pumpkin. Ah me '. alack-a-day ! ( Exeunt Str Timothy Twillyn and Betsey Boneset within the house. Enter Racilla Trawi upon the veranda. After listening a moment at the vine-clad window to assure herself that Sir Tmorm is busily occupied within, she laughingly descends into the garden. ) Racilla. — {Solus.) Dear me, how Uncle Timothy did sneeze and scold ! And to accuse prim Miss Betsey of fill- ing his snuftbox with kitchen spice — Miss Betsey, the very parau^n of methodical correctness ! How queer that Uncle Timothy did not suspect me as being the witch thai worked him such wicked mischief. (A clock heard remotely strik- ing.) 'Tis nine o'clo< k by the cit) lowers, and the Italian Marquis is to visit me tonight —just think of it ! How ro- mantic it will be to sail away with the famous sea robber. Marquis Victor Baretti ! [Jhcle Timoth\ is so ugly that it de-lights me to think of leaving this hateful, old house for- ever. {As Racilla seeks the shadow of the arbor, Victok Baretti, attired in sombrero and mantle, enters through the garden-gate. ) Baretti. — (Solus.) Should the coast-guard surround me here, the egress from this garden by a single gate guarantees: my doom, but a. dare-devil rover should be fearless of death. By love or lightning 1 sha.ll surely die, as the wizard read it THE SEA-ROBBER. 2 1 in the riddle of fate. {Entering the arbor, and sain ting Racilla.) We meet again, my gentle charmer. Racilla. — Oh, Victor, how kind in you to come to-ni^ht ! Baretti. — What dangers would 1 not have dared to meet my own Racilla? Bnt are there no prying ryes to watch us from the curtained casements of the mansion? Racilla. — All within the house, J think, are deep in slumber ; Uncle Timothy I am sure is fast asleep. Bar] !'ii. Has your un< le .m\ gold, or jewels hidden in the house ? Racilla.— There is a strange chest of iron-girded rose- w >od in an upper chamber. Baretti. — Ah! Do you .think that the chest contains valuables ? Racilla.- I don't know: my uncle always keeps it locked. But why do you ask so queer a question, Victor? Baretti. — Since your uncle has treated you so harshly. Racilla, would ii not be an excellent joke and a proper re- \ enge to rob him of that clu st ~ J Racilla.— He is so strict and fretful that such a trick would serve him just right. Barettl— Then, by San Raphael, he shall lose that iron- girded treasure-chest ! (Enter Sir Timothy Twillyn and Betsey Boneset upon the verandah) BetseY.— (Sotto voce.) Indeed, Sir Timothy, I saw a strange man cuter the arbor. 'fwiLLYN. — (Sotto voce.) A kick -a - -day ! if the villain. tarries till I don mine armor there will be bloodshed to chronicle. Hasten, Betsey Boneset, hasten and summon the gardener to mv assistance. Bv Nicademus. I'll abide THK SEA-ROBBER. no desperadoes about my premises ! {ExeuntSiR Timothy Twillyn and Betsey Boneset within the house.) Baretti. — Just before reaching the- gate, I met a naval officer, who viewed me with a sharp glance of suspicion. Racilla. — It was Captain Anthony — 1 just hate him, but my uncle declares that I shall be the Captain's wife. Baretti. — But your uncle mistakes the exact situation of affairs, Racilla, if he imagines that his schemes cannot be defeated. Racilla. — Oh, Victor, I hope Captain Anthony did not suspect you as being the pirate chief. If you were seized upon suspicion, you surely would be hanged. Baretti. — Be not alarmed. Racilla, 1 shall never be captured by my enemies. But perhaps it is the safer plan for me not to linger here ; if I am discovered my purposes will be baffled. But to-morrow night, my Sea-queen, we will sail away beneath the shadow of the shrouding mists. {En- ter upon the veranda Sir Anthony Twillyn, clad in armor. Carrying in one hand a broadsword) and holding in the other a shield decorated with a gilded coat of arms, he de- scends to the garden-gate and assumes a gladiatorial atti- tude^) Racilla. — By the southern lattice I will await the signal of your coming. Baretti. — {Saluting Racilla.) Adieu, sweet love, till we meet again. {Going.) Ha ! what man is this, confront- ing me in armor? Racilla. — Alas, alas ! my uncle has discovered us — oh. Victor, do not strike him, he is but a gray, old man. Twillyn. — What ho ! what ho ! Come forth, you night- prowler, come forth, you villian ! — surrender or perish ! THE SEA-ROBBER. 23 Baretti. — {Flinging aside his mantle and drawing his rapier.) Surrender? — not I ! Look to your guard, war- rior, — tilt — flan con ad e ! (Sir Timothy in parrying the at- tack, stumbles and falls, while Baretti disappears through the gate. At this instant Zebedee enters from the house, his confused attire revealing the haste in which he has donned his garments. Zebedee, followed by Racilla, Betsey Boneset, and Gnome, hastens to the assistance of Sir Timothy.) Betsey. — Oh, mercy me! alas, alas! Sir Timothy is killed ! Racilla. — Are you hurt, Uncle Timothy? Let me help you to the house. Twillyn. — {Assisted to his feet by the gardener. ) Alack - a-day ! hath the villian Med? God's blessing! I am so shaken by my ponderous tall. I scarce can keep my balance. {To Gnome.) Take my sword, boy. My blade had been victorious, had not the rusty corrosion of mine armor joints thrown me from mine equipoise. ( To the gardener.) Why came you not to mine assistance with more alacrity, Zebedee? Zebedee: — Before (rod. Master Twillyn, I awoke quickly, but getting tangled in my pantaloons I fell down the stair- case into the wine-vault and (tacked my head on a brandy - ' ask, Master Twillyn. Twillyn. — Alack-a-day ! is this region the rendezvous of villians? By Nicodemus ! no clandestine night-prowlers shall abide in my garden without a conflict ! Betake your- self within the house, Racilla Trawl, betake yourself within the house ! find's blessing! am I to be slain at mine own gateway by roving paramours *? {Curtain/alls.) ACT III. Scene. — A room in Sir Timothy Twillyn's house. Sir Timothy's armor seen in its place, while his shield and broadsword hang on the wainscoting. Evening. Enter Sir Timothy Twillyn, clad in an ancient British costume. attended by Gnome. Twillyn. — (Sighing.) Ah me ! alack-a-day, alack-a-day, alack-a-day! Smooth the cushion of m\ chair, Gnome. In your touch, my lad. is a requisite skilfulness, unparalleled by the vulgar hirelings of this uncultured country. 'Seats himself.) Ah ! be grateful to fate, boy, that a nobleman delights to be your tutor. Well-a-day ! what sorry bedevil- ment of stupid faith leu 1 me to seek tins fabulous land with the hope of bettering my fortune? Alack-a-day ! the clod- poll rustics they do deride me, and prowling robbers arc my deep affright.. (A knock.) God's blessing! who knocks? ope the door. boy. (As Gnome opens the door. Captain Anthony enters. Rising, Sir Timothy grasps his visitor's hand.) Ah ! I bid you welcome Captain Anthony. 1 bid you welcome, sir. Gnome, my lad, place • the Captain's favored chair in close proximity to mine own. M\ senses, Captain, are being most deplorably dulled by the malarious vapors of this detestable climate. But in the infirmity of deafness the disastrous climatic effects are more particularly apparent. Gnome, my lad, prepare both the Captain and myself goblets of cheering punch. Gnome. — Yes, master — Cognac or Madeira? THE SEA-ROBBER. 2$ Twillyn, — Cognac, boy — Cognac, to-night. {Exit Gnome.) Ah ! be seated. Captain Anthony, be seated, sir. {As Captain Anthony seats himself, Sir Timothy sinks into his chair with a sigh.) Anthony. — J learn from your gardener, Sir Timothy, that after my departure last night you were involved in a fight with an armed desperado in your garden. Twillyn. — A most sanguinary conflict transpired in my garden last night, Captain Anthony, a most sanguinary con- flict, sir. But for the dexterity of my sword, assassination w<»uld have extinguished the last descendant of the valiant H< »use ot Twillyn. Anthony. — Pray give me the particulars of this affair, Sir Timothy, that 1 may put officers upon the track of the culprit. Twillyn. — God's blessing ! I chastised the villain so terribly with my broadsword that I feel no apprehension of his visit being repeated. Ah me ! had not mine armor been too ponderous for pursuit, the rascal had not escaped. Anthony.— Did you observe how the desperado was attired? Twillyn. — It affords me supreme satisfaction to assure you, Captain, that a portion of the villain's apparel is now in my possession. (Rising. Sir Timothy procures the mantle thrown aside by Baretti in the garden J) From the circumstance of my securing this mantle, you will readily perceive, Captain, that this marauder found his safety in extreme jeopardy. Anthony. — (Examining the mantle.) I am quite certain. Sir Timothy, that soon after leaving your gate last night, I 26 THE SEA-ROBBEK. met the very man who wore this cloak. Did you discern his features? Twillyn. — From the glimpse I gained of his counte- nance, 1 infer that the rascal had a face of most evil ex- pression ; but my attention vos too profoundly occupied with the scoundrel's rapier to regard his visage ver\ closely. A girdle of atrocious weapons hung in his belt — in lad. Captain, the villain bristled with murder like an animated arsenal. Anthony. — Without doubt, Sir Timothy, you were assailed by Victor Baretti. the noted pirate chief. Twillyn. — (^Returning the. mantle to the place from whence he procured it.) Well-a-day, well-a-day, well-a-day ! should the supposition be sustained by ultimate evidence,. Captain, that I, in single combat, forced to flight the re nowned buccaneer, Victor baretti. I shall then realize with emotions of profound pleasure thai through myself die an- nals of the warlike House of Twillyn have been embellished by the valiant deeds of its last illustrious descendant. ( Enter (ixoME with punch-bowls on a salver.) Heyday, boy! — heyday, you good genius of the wine-vault, heyday! Gnome. -{Placing the punch-bowls upon the. table.) The barrel of Cognac is nearly empty, master. Twillyn.— -Then, boy, broach another cask forthwith. Ah me! above the punch-bowl how my heart exalts! ( Nudging ( rNOME playfully with his thumb. ) Hex day. bow heydey! be merry while life lasts, say the true philosophers; but beware, boy — ever beware, sa\ I, of the ashen visage of blear besotment. But your eyes grow sleepy, lad ; go seek your downy couch — hie away, boy. hie away, till the bright dawn glimmers in the orient skies! ['HE SEA- ROBBER. 2 7 Gnome. -Yes, master. {Exit Gnome.) Twillln. — Come, Captain Anthony, come, sir; let us now discourse above our goblets. (Sir Timothy and ( attain • Anhhoxv seat themselves at the table and sip their punch as they converse.} Anthony. — In truth, Sir Timothy, you possess the happy art of mixing the sweetest flavored punch the world affords. Twiu.yn. — Tn this sweet elixir of the vintage, mingled in the manner of Vespasian's feast, abides the true reason why the Roman legions ruled the world. Believe me, Captain, when I proclaim that to the vitiation of Roman punch may attributed the swift decline of the Roman empire. Doubt- less it were difficult to cite authority to sustain the fact, yet, nevertheless, such is the truth. You now taste. Captain, the nectar that fired to valiant deeds the cohorts of luxuriant Rome. Anthony.— 1 venture to surmise that you were once a lion in gay society, Sir Timothy. Twillyn. — Ah me ! in younger days I. were a merry reveller. Before my person grew corpulent I could dance like a manikin. Alack-a-day ! could I but sing the jovial songs of yore, the silent echoes of this room would ring to the madrigal and ditty, but I shall sing no more the melo- dies that sanctify the past. Ah me ! the sepulchre of silence holds the mirth of other days. Anthony. — I cannot refrain. Sir Timothy, from again praising this delicious beverage. Twillyn. — Well may its qualities be praised, Captain Anthony, well may its qualities be praised, sir ; it limbers the legs and it sharpens the wits. There is profound wisdom in the maxim that says : A fickle friend may change 2— w< x >— gush y— 1 too? Betsey. — You talk like a fool, Sir Timothy, but I hope Captain Anthony understands your mental condition— shame on you ! I will not remain in this room an instant longer .' {Exit Betsey Boneset hastily.) Twillyn. — I assure you, Captain. 1 had quite forgotten. as I spoke, that my housekeeper was in this apartment. By Nficodemus ! it is singular that when you winked at me, Captain. 1 did not comprehend the significance of the warning. Although brandy may sometimes tangle my vocal tones, it never obscures my wits. I have a faculty, you per- 32 ['HE SEA-ROBBER. ceive, of triumphantly surmounting the most unexpected and the most embarrassing emergencies. Anthony. — I must now be going, Sir Timothy. But I am completely mystified in regard to the sudden change in Racilla's manner. TwiLLYN. — Be not disheartened, Captain Anthony, be not disheartened, sir. Some slanderous rumor hath reached her ears ; but my preference shall prevail ; my niece shall be your consort. Good night. Captain Anthony, good night. sir. Anthony. — Good night, Sir Timothy, good night. {Ex// Captain Anthony.) Twillyn. — {Solus.) What whimsical bedevilment of folly possessed my niece to treat Captain Anthony in such on outrageous manner? But a commotion will ensue if my niece persists in her impertinence. By Nicodemus ! I am no griddle-cake to be turned in a kitchen stewpan at a woman's option. Well-a-day, the fa6t cannot be disputed, that the happiest man in history was Robinson Crusoe. {Contemplating himself in a mirror.) Ah me! despite the havoc wrought upon my visage by the detestable climate, there still lingers around my lineaments some vestige of the beauty that adorns the far-famed Twillyns. But, alack-a- day, I must seek my chamber for repose; mine eyes grow dull and drowsy. {Exit Sir Timothy Twillyn. Enter Racllla Trawl.) Racilla. — {Solus.) At last my uncle's peevish voice is still ; deep may he sleep to-night. Like a dream it seems to me .to think how soon I leave this lonesome house for- ever. But, oh, how grand to sail with Victor on the distant seas ! 'Tis midnight ; at the lattice T will listen — hush ! THE SEA-ROBBER. 33 {Tossed through the open lattice, a knotted sash falls within the room. As Racilla unbolts the door, Victor Baretti ruters, followed by Simon Flash and the pirates. Chaos. Pluto, and Bacchus, all armed.) Baretti. — Racilla, my love, which way leads to the old man's treasure-chest ? J Racilla. — {Opening a door.) This way. Victor, — up three flights of stairs. Baretti. — The night deepens, but the decoyed patrols of" the coast-guard may soon return ; we must move hastily. Await me on the veranda. Racilla : in a few moments I will descend Racilla. — Hut you will not harm my uncle? Baretti. My promise is given, he shall not he molested. {Exit Racilla.) Now, my lads, hold your rapiers ready, I will lead and Simon Flash will follow. {Exeunt Victor Bareiti and the other pirates. Then enter Betsey Boneset who knoeks nervously at Sir Timothy's chamber door. Enter Sir Timothy clad in nightcap, nightshirt, and breeches I) Betsey. — Oh ! Sir 'Timothy, what shall we do? A dozen brigands have broken into the house — I heard their feet upon the stairs. Twillyn. — Alack-a-day ! your condition is becoming serious, Betsey, chronically serious. I fear. My repose is being continually disturbed by your hysterical hallucinations. By Nicodemus ! if you are unable to comprehend the difference between nightmare and reality — Betsey. — If you do not believe me, Sir Timothy, go listen for yourself. (Sir Timothy listens at the foot of the stair- THK SEA-ROBBE R. case, indicating his desire for complete silence by the ges- ticulations of his finger.) Twillyn. — By Nicodemus ! there are louder noises aloft than rats could produce ; there are sounds like footsteps in the garret. Betsey. — Oh. mercy, mercy me! What shall we do? what shall we do? Are we all to be murdered? Twillyn. — Perplex me not with prattle. Betsey Boneset, perplex me not with prattle, but hasten with alacrity and arouse the gardener to my assistance. I will encounter the robbers in mine armor. By Nicodemus ! prior to my capit- ulation, this room shall run blood like a slaughter-pen. ( Exit Betsey Boneset. After blundering about in nervous agitation. Sir Timothy finally succeeds in arraying himself in armor, and advances, hearing the shield in one hand and the broadsword in the other. Enter Zebedee hurriedly, appearing in his excitement with his pantaloons on reversed, and carrying in his hand a pruning-hook as a weapon.) Zebedee. — Where is the burglar, Master Twillyn ? I will kill him. Twillyn. — Zebedee. the garret is being ransacked by a gang of thieves, and bloodshed is to follow. Therefore. Zebedee, 1 beseech you to valiantly support me in this dire- ful emergency, nor basely desert me at the sight of gore. Hark ! the villians are descending. Zebedee. — I will trip them. Master Twillyn. and you can chop off their heads. (Zebedee crouches by the door lead- ing to the staircase, and as the pirates enter the room hear- doc a massive chest, lie darts the handle of the pruning-hook among their legs. ) Chaos. — (falling.) 1'erdition ! look to your feet, mates. THE SEA-ROBBER. - $=> {The pi raft' s drop the chesty and with their rapiers they at- tack Sir Timothy #«\ weight we carry a ton of gold. Bacchus. — Great riches should reward us, mates, for our boldness and sagacity in securing this box. The fact of our si ill clinging to our booty after escaping the sentries by falling over a three fathom precipice, is enough to commend us to the favor of the gods. By the Eternal Powers ! I have not been so scared since my chin was shaved by a crazy barber in Matanzas. Pluto. — Jove, mates ! here is the chest and here is the keyhole, but where the devil is the key? Chaos. — A very proper question, Pluto ; where the devil is the key? If 1 remember aright, Pluto, about the time we captured this baggage we were in some haste, and the result seems to be that we came away without requesting the owner to lend us a lock opener. There is a parallel. Pluto, between a keyhole without a key and a knot-hole in the gate of Heaven. Bacchus. — We must pry off the lid. Pluto, go get your crow-bar or burglar's jimmy and we will burst off the cover. We are lucky to have a burglar in our midst who will lend us his professional tools and services on this occasion. Pluto. — I confess, gentlemen, that years ago I acquired a habit of exploring the basements of banks with a crow- bar and a bull's-eye lantern, but — Chaos. — Don't blush, Pluto, don't blush; the failings of 44 THE SEA-ROBBER. youth are common to all. Years ago, Pluto, I was parson of a Presbyterian church, but between prayers in the pulpit and poker playing in the tavern. 1 grew to regard Voltaire as greater than Moses. After a time' a jealous deacon ac- cused me of intimacy with his wife, whereupon I took persona] charge of the church funds and slatted for the South Sea Islands with a sheriff at my heels. Bacchus. — Gentlemen, I was only a doctor who gave up the bolus and lancet for the bullet and cutlass. Pluto. — And the law would hang you, Bacchus, just because you prefer to kill sailors rather than landsmen. This is a very peculiar world, Bacchus ; but I confess that I feel easier to find we are men of equal degree. But wait a moment, mates, and 1 will be back with a jack-bar. {Exit Pluto.) Chaos. — Between you and me. Bacchus, it is surprising how fond of the women our Captain is growing. Bacchus. — Never saw so singular a case in my life, Chaos. Had the Captain quit the sea to become a plantation mule- driver it would not have amazed me more. Chaos.— Ah. Bacchus, before renegades turn farmers the hemp crop must fail. But between you and me. Bacchus, 1 think the Captain has the idea of fitting up a harem in the Turkish style. But here comes Pluto. {-Enter Pluto, carrying a burglar's jimmy. ) Pluto. — A mighty rough sea is running, mates, and we are in for a squally night : but here is the jimmy. Chaos. — Pluto, the glitter in your eye tells me you have been tasting brandy- eh, Pluto? Pluto. — Only a drop, mates, just for good fortune on this occasion. {He applies his instrument to the lock of the THE SKA- ROBBER. 45 chest, while Chaos and Bacchus lift on the lid.) Be (•.ireful. Chaos, or you get your thumbs caught in a jimmy jamb. We may well be merry, mates ; if we gain no gewgaws, we shall find a jimcrack. (As the chest is forced open, the three pirates proceed eagerly to examine its contents, which consists only of old papers and parchments. Exit Cafi'ain Baretti, after placing in Racilla's hands the casket of Jewels. ) Chaos. — Blast my eves, what a swindle ! Bacchus. — Cockroaches and rubbish ! Pluto. — Rats' nests and ruin ! Chaos. — Here's a rich reward for cracking our skulls on the smutty rafters of a nobleman's cockloft! Pluto. — Here's a fine halm for broken shins ! Bacchus. — We're the devil's laughing-stocks, mates. How in perdition did this blunder come about? Where is the Captain ? Chaos. — The skipper has gone aloft to set the forecastle watch. Pluto. — Say, mates, isn't the Captain's lady a lovely damsel? Just look at the pretty creature, mates. Bacchus. — Pluto, dear man, you are badly smitten. Ah, Pluto, love should be tasted with caution, like hot potatoes. Pluto. — By Jove ! I'll kiss the pretty jade to spite Baretti. Chaos. — A dagger to a doubloon that you dare not do it. Pluto. — Enough ! I take the wager. Bacchus. — {To Chaos.) Brandy makes Pluto brave. Chaos. — If Pluto is caught in this trick, the sharks will get a luncheon. (Racilla rises in alarm as Pluto ap- 46 THE SEA-ROBBER. p7-oaches. Enter Baretti who grapples Pi. urn, da's king Mm angrily backward through an aperture in the tapestry.) Chaos. — Cods, mate ! Baretti is in a blazing rage. Bacchus. — W we tarry here, he may tickle our ribs with- his rapier ; come on. Chaos. ( Exeunt Cha< >s. and Bacchus, carrying the e/iest. Baretti and Racilla advance to the foreground.} Racilla. — {Clinging to Baretti /// alarm.) Oh, Motor. that dreadful man will kill you ! Baretti. — Fie, fie. my pretty one ! banish from your mind such silly fears. ( )n this vessel the dread of vengeance makes my voice the law. Racilla.- — But oh, Victor ! the wretch glared at you with such ev< s of cruel hate that I know he plans your murder! Bark - ] n.— These men know better than to rouse my rage ; they know defiance leads to death. But if it will make you happier, my timid one, I will put on my dagger-proof doublet. Racilla. — Oh, Victor, I do beg of you to protect your- self! Baretti. — My pretty Peri, your sweet request my heart cannot resist ; I will shield myself from this fancied danger. ( Taking dozvn from its place a breastplate of chain-mail. Baretti removes his tunic, and assisted by Racilla, arrays himself in the doublet of glittering mail, which he conceals by again donning his tunic.) Baretti. — Ah, many a time, my love, the clashing scimi- tars have smote this mail in battle. Racilla. — Yes, Victor, and I feel that you are safer now. Baretti. — Ah, my Queen, how it enchants my sight to see \<>u smile again ! But I must now direct the pilot at THE SEA-ROBBER. 47 the helm. No one dare molest you here ; so be not alarmed, my love, while I am gone. Racilla. — Oh, Victor, do let me go on deek with you, 1 would so like to see the ocean in this storm. Baretti. — What a wild request ! a sea-witch would be blown through the bowline bridles in this gale. But to end your pleading, my Peri, you may go with me as far as the balustered hatchway. {Exeunt Baretti and Racilla. Enter Pluto with a dagger his It a /id.) Pluto. — {Solus.) This stiletto will do the deed, — Baretti shall die ! We who made him leader are reduced to slaves : but this blade will be our liberator. With the Captain's death, the men will rally in revolt and victory will be gained. Hush*! the Captain comes. (Pluto conceals himself behind the tapestry. Enter Baretti and Racilla.) Baretti. — The winds will lull at midnight: across the dark expanse — Pluto. — {Springing upon Baretti.) Tyrant! a king no longer, you are carrion now ! {As the dagger clashes against Baretti's metal doublet, Pluto darts from view.) Baretti. — Mutineer ! traitor ! from the yard-arm you swing at sunrise ! Racilla. — Oh, Victor, Victor! Baretti. — Be not frightened, love. I am not harmed. Again this rigid breastplate saves. my life. Ah. my Princess, 'tis well I listened to your fears. [Enter Chaos.) Chaos. — Captain, Pluto has plunged from the quarter- deck into the sea. Baretti. — Destruction to the conspirator! a thousand fathoms let the traitor sink ! What the vultures lose the — — - — — j — — [ — £ - - THE SEA-ROBE d-houndofth our track, a ship- tear. Racelea. — But, Victor, von can sail beyond its reach. at the command battle. Were I tc pe, my b boldly follow. Mine - - fate. Where ever m\ I walk in the shadow oi death. Racilla. — r, /will fight 'before they shall ever chain you Baretti. — My brave little PriE • - me if we lose the batt Racllla. — ^ - >r, I will die with you ; when yoi; _ >ut wretched^' - give me the cutlass ighted taper. ( • /.) Hark ! 'tis t lose for battle. But I 5 > vault the ua earthquake. Kindle tons of powder stored below will rend this ship to > Let the third sudd. - ' my trumpet be the toke Lt : then, my Princess, drop your bla powder-chest below and these mighty walls ot timber umder of destruction. Racilla. — ^ - . 1 will drop t - -, Barettl. — Hark! the grapnels fall and battle. ) Quell your tears, my lore; aemory of a hundred triumphs fills my heart with h veil, my love, till \ 5 [ return. 50 THE SEA-ROBBER. Racilla. — Good-bye, Victor ; I will wait and hope ; good- bye, good-bye. (As Baretti disappears, Simon Flash dashes across the saloon, followed by Chaos and Bacchus, armed with boarding-pikes and rapiers. Then a hurried trampling of feet is heard on deck, followed by shouts, cries, and the clashing of arms. As Racilla listens to the sounds of conflicl, the changing emotions of hope, doubt, and fear a/-e risible in her aspect. Suddenly two quick peals ring from Baretti's trumpet. With a shudder of despair Racilla kneels and covering her exes, holds the taper poised above the powder vault. Loud cheering heard, then enter Baretti, waving from the point of his cutlass the ensign of the cap- tured ship. ) Baretti. — Huzza ! huzza ! \vt j have conquered ! Again the Vampire floats the monarch of the sea ! (As Racilla rises to meet Baretti, the curtain falls .) ACT VI. Scene. — A cave in the pirate isle of Mora in the Gulf oj Mexico. Stalaclite pillars of tinted crystals support the distant arches of the grotto, while among flags and other trophies of piratic victories, the armor, shield, broadsword, and iron-bound chest, belonging to Sir Timothy Twillyn, are all visible. Enter Barf/iti and Racii.i.a attired in brilliant costumes. Baretti. — In a few moments a deputy will arrive who will offer me exemption from the penalties incurred by my career of piracy, providing that in abandoning my present life, I will accept certain prescribed conditions. Racii.i.a. — For my sake. Victor, do give up this dreadful life of plunder. Baeetti. — For your sake, my Princess, I will accept any terms that are honorable. Between the guns of the navy and the daggers of mutiny. I am in constant danger of death. Racii.i.a. — Did all the people on the war ship sink with the wreck ? Baretti. — The crew went down with the vessel, but to save the life of a lady, who for some strange reason was voyaging with him, the Captain yielded ; we also captured a quaint, old gentleman, whose absurd questions and ceaseless THE SEA-ROBB1 R. complaints have given us much annoyance. {Enter Chaos and Bacchus, leading a blindfolded messenger. ) Chaos. — Here's your man, Captain ; if you can save our necks by negotiation, the whole gang of us is ready to dis- band. Baretti. — -Very well, Chaos, remove the scarf from the herald's eyes and then bring in the prisoners. Chaos. — Aye, aye, sir. {Exeunt Chaos and Bacchus.) Messenger. — Is the pirate chief present? Baretti. — The pirate chief stands before you. I am Victor Baretti. Messenger. — (Producing a paper leaning an official seal.) Victor Baretti, by the authority of General Jackson, I have the honor of offering you the pardon and protection of the United States, providing you immediately lead your forces to the defence of the City of New Orleans, which is now threatened with destruction by the British troops under General Packenham. Baretti. — Am I allowed the right to retain all property now in my possession ? Messenger. — You hold in your hand the pledge of Gen- eral Jackson ; you are permitted to retain all plunder now in your possession, regardless of how seized, or where obtained. Baretti. — General Jackson's terms are accepted. At midnight I will lead my forces to the defence of the city. Meantime I cordially invite you to honor us with your com- pany during the banquet that is to celebrate our abandon- ment of the profession of piracy. Messenger. — Your hospitality is gratefully acknowledged and gladly accepted. But pardon me, Captain Baretti. for THE SEA-ROBBER. 53 requesting the privilege of viewing more closely the ensign that I observe yonder ; if I am not greatly mistaken it is the pennon of the lost ship, Osprey. Baretti. — You are free to determine the truth of your impressions ; possibly it is the flag of the Osprey. (As the messenger withdraws to the rear of the cavern to examine the ensign, Captain Anthony and Myra Auber enter. The messenger discovers old acquaintances in Captain Anthony and Myra and detains them in conversation. Enter Sir Timothy Twillyn in deranged apparel, accompanied by Chaos and Bacchus. ) Chaos. — Hush your clatter, I say ! You shall trot around a snubbing-post at the end of a hawser, old grumbler, if you call me a pirate, — I am a corsair. Your pirate will conde- scend to scuttle schooners and to rob lobster traps, but your corsair sails the sea for blood and booty. Twillyn. — Thugs ! homicides ! villains ! is it your pur- pose to murder me ? Racilla. — Oh. Victor, here is Uncle Timothy ! {Throw- ing her arms around Twielyn's neck, while Chaos and Bacchus lean against the cavern wall as observers.} My dear old Uncle, how glad I am to see you ! Oh, don't look so surly ! — please do forgive me, Uncle Timothy. Twteeyn. — By Nicodemus ! the tribulation that your treachery hath cost me, Niece, demands the most severe of retributions. Racilla. — But, Uncle, we are all going back to Pensacola and Victor is going to live with us ; oh ! Uncle, I know you will like Victor because he is very, very rich. Twillyn. — But alack-a-day ! in the bedevil ment of mis- fortunes. I have lost my documents of nobility. (Discover- 54 THE SEA-ROBBER. ing his property.) Heyday, heyday, heyday ! here are my treasures — happy sight ! {Opening the chesty Sir Timothy convinces himself that his documents are uninjured.) Since my valuables are secure, you are permitted, Niece, to intro- duce yon gorgeous buccaneer. Racilla. — Come here. Victor, and let me introduce you to Uncle Timothy. (Racilla confers an introduction.) Marquis Victor Baretti, Uncle ; Sir Timothy Twillyn. Victor. Baretti. — {Extending his hand.) I am happy to make your acquaintance Mr. Twillyn. Twillyn. — (Haughtily.) Allow me to insist upon the recognition of the fact that a title precedes my name. Mister is an appellation appropriate to the vulgar classes of rude artisans ; but the title of Sir is inseparably connected with the majesty of my noble extraction. Baretti. — Begging your pardon for the error. Sir Twillyn. I again assure you that I feel great pleasure in making your acquaintance. But we have met before, I think, though under less happy circumstances. Twillyn. — (Shaking hands with Baretti.) Pardon me for scrutinizing your features, Marquis Baretti, but 1 am constrained to observe that your military sagacity, joined with a certain scornful sublimity in the expression of your visage, convinces me that you are remotely related to the far famed Twillyns. Baretti. — (Glancing at Racilla.) It is my hope, Sir Twillyn, that our future relationship may lose the quality of remoteness. Twillyn. — It will afford me profound pleasure, Marquis Baretti, to welcome you to my mansion. Although I am unable to comprehend what purpose impelled you to seize THE SEA-ROBBER. 55 my documents of nobility, still I am profoundly grateful to you for your solicitude in their preservation. Baretti. — In capturing the chest we believed we were securing something of value — Twillyn. — And you were securing something of value. Marquis Baretti, something of inestimable value, sir; you were securing the parchments on which arc recorded the achievements of the warlike House of Twillyn from the days of the monarch Tudors to the time when the chronicle closes with the conspicuous inscription of mine own signa- ture. Ah me ! it is with emotions of profound pleasure that 1 again behold the armor once worn by Baron Gregory Twillyn. Marquis, I am constrained to declare that the preservation of mine armor in such a tempest was a miracu- lous exploit. Yonder man {Indicating Captain Anthony.) is astoundingly deficient in the knowledge essential to an ocean navigator. Why. Marquis, when he discovered that I was displaying more ability in the art of navigation than he could hope to equal, he secretly instigated the sailors to degrade me into humility; for after insolently ridiculing the ample proportions of my person without receiving an official reprimand, the sordid miscreants began to batter me around the ship like a mere popinjay, until the persecution culmin- ated in a deed of violence on my part. By Nicodemus ! my indignation resents the perpetration of such abominable atrocities. Racilla. — When we get back to Pensacola, Uncle, won't Betsey be surprised to hear you tell the story of your ad- ventures on this voyage? Twillyn. — Incidents of fabulous singularity have certainly happened during this voyage, but I profoundly doubt 56 THE SEA-ROBBER. whether my housekeeper is capable of comprehending the full significance of such remarkable occurrences. (A bell rings.) Baretti. — The banquet is ready ; rejoicing, we will seek the feast. Twillyn. — {Detaining Baretti.) Alack-a-day ! I cannot sit in soiled vesture at the social board. It would be abso- lutely impossible for me to sustain the dignity of my station in tarnished attire. Why, Marquis, you can scarcely imagine in observing the present deplorable condition of my apparel, 1 how exquisitely faultless were my personal adornments at the commencement of this voyage. By losing my wardrobe in the tempest, I am left completely destitute of ruffled shirts, — articles of the utmost importance to a nobleman's toilet. In this vesture, Marquis, it would be utterly impossi- ble for me to attend a banquet without the profound depths of my chagrin being revealed in the dejected expression of my countenance. By Nicodemus ! I lament the lack of combs and clean linen ; my peruke is freighted with clam shells and barnacles, and my garments exhale the detestable odors of a gull's nest. Baretti. — Come with me, Sir Twillyn, and you shall be clothed like a nabob. A ceremonial robe once worn by the Shah of Persia is in my possession ; it will exactly fit your figure. Twillyn. — Ah, Marquis, your marvellous adroitness in meeting this emergency reveals a peculiar characteristic that fully convinces me of your remote connection with the House of Twillyn. {Exeunt omnes. Curtain falls.) LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 016 102 881 2