'-^''S^S^/ \^j.-* ACT I -*-* A ■ X^:i '>''>K^ ;*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*: -<^:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:^-*:*-*:*-*=*-*-*-* / ' HIS n n U B I. E LIFE." *-*- PLAY -*-* I N *-*- FOUR ACTS -*-* '- ReSENPIELD, TYPEWRlTEfl ,jAtt ' EW VOBK. .^^ fA J^ <^>' ak- ^ CAST Q J?' CHARACTERS - *»ik ^Fm T^ ^kw tC" a|C» aK» ^m Sk « ^» %» % The Earl of Ledbur y Captain Daryll Haroourt of the Life Guards, his son Sir Peroival Pigott Mr. Hon. Adolphus Ponsonby Police Offioer 1287 Tommy Sykes A Waif Duffy Simmons Landlord of Happy Home J ame s A servant Clerk Lady Mabel Haroourt Lady Sunburst Ethel Vvvian Madge Bull _S_C_E_N_K:* London. TIME:* Present Day. k: *:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*: *:i|c:i|t:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*: *:*:*:*:*:* : - :■- A C T 1 ~ i - : S C K N E ;- Drawing room in Harcoxa t Towers. T I ME:- After dinner. Discovere d ;- Ethel Vyvian seated at piano an d playing. She plays a short piece , then without stopping music. By her side is Sir Percival Pigott . In arm ch air asleep ±r. the dw/a^er. Lady Sunburst asleep on sofa. L. H. are Mabel Hareoiirt and the Hon. Adolphus Ponsonby. Pigott I hope you haven' t forgotten your promise, Miss Vyvian? Ethel What was it, Sir Percival? Pigott To sing one of your- favorite songs. Ethel Alas. Sir Percival, I have only one favorite nov/ and I fee fear your critical taste would be above it. Pigott Wny, Miss Vyvian? Ethel Because the music is simple, indeed, almost comnon place, while the words and the sentiment are tine h\:annlest in exis- tence. Pigott At least let me hear it Miss Vyvian, I really don't see why I should not like simple music and humble sentiment. Ethd Oh very well, Sir Percival. 1. ( Plavs symphony ^to Lover's 'V/hEt Woxild You Do Love"? then sinRP song in low voice and measured time almost l ike an Irish and Scotch croon ing sonR at end of song Pjgott leans over piano and trying to throw grreat sjr- nl finance into his words.) Pigott Miss Vyvian, thi sentiment of th?;t song may be humble but it is also noble. Such abiding faith is wlmt fev/ men isrit and few get. Ethel If they are loved by the right type of women tlie y command it; at least that's the way I read the song. ( Goes on playing other music as if improvising but very quiet. ) Dolly Mabel, this is very jolly, Mabel Jolly, Dolly! I think it's very slow, Dolly Mabel, nothing can be slow that you take part in. Mabel (Laughing) Oh, thank you, Dolly. Dolly No Mabel, what I mean is, it's so jolly sitting here m your lovely presence knowing that a fellow's digesting a doosid good dinner, Mabel Oh, Dolly, how unrc mantic. Dolly Yes, N'abel, but how comf or tabid. Then that soft sweet mu- sic of your cousin Ethel. She does play beautifully, don't she Ma.bel? Mabel Ethel an exquisite player and sings sweetly too, Dolly Ya-as, and thea I look up into your face and think tha.t you can be so ohari table, so condescending, so generour; , so, so doosid foolish as to love a little iioocile li\° ms, I feel that jolly that I could burst right out crin.ng on the spot. ( RubbinK his ey es.) Mabel ( Giving him her hand which he kisses ferventl y . ) Dolly, I do love you, but I'm not in the least bit condesc- ending or generous, I've loved you ever since we were children. And you are not a little noodle at all; you have far more brains and even talent than people who mak<^preten- sions to such things; and as for heart, yours Dolly is nearly as big as your body. Yes, 1 think ^^e'll be very happy when we are married. ( siRhinR .) Polly Then v/hy that sigh, MaBel? Mabel Dia I sigh Dolly*? Dolly Yes, ana I know why. You v/ere thinking about Daryll. Mabel Yes, Dolly, I was thinking of my dear brother Daryll. Dolly You love him better than you do me, Mabel. Mabel Oh, no Dolly, not better, but differently. My love for Dcryll has something in it of worship and something also of fear. I worship him because he's a hero and I fear for him because he is unhappy. Dolly A hero indeed. A tried and proved one. Didn't he v/in the Victoria Cross in the Soudan? I feel it a privilege to walk down Bond street with him. But why shoula he be un- happy? Mabel What's his secret, his mystery. I think nobody understands anything about it but Papa, and I know it worries and har- asses him terribly. You know Dolly, all houses hav- their family sk'=leton and I'm sure that the Harcourt skeleton concerns itself with Daryll only. Dolly Wiy doesn't the Earl let you know about it Mabel? Your woman's v/it wouldgmash that skeleton all to pieces. Mabel I wouldn't trust to wit, Dolly, but to a sister's love and devotion. But Dolly, I will penetrate the mystery and you shall help me. Dolly Only give me the chance, iiabel. But Daryll was to have been here to ainner. Mabel Yes, and we waited half an hour for him. Oh, Dolly, I dread another of his mysterious absences. He was nervous and agitated this morning. A sure sign. I notic'="d how anxious papa was at breakfast and how unhappy he has looked all day long. Dolly And you.- cousin fCthel, Mabel? Mabel She suffers terribly- poor thing. She is so loving and tender and clinging and Daryll is almost coldly cr-ueft when these spells come over him. Dolly It's a pity they don't get marri'='d. They've b'^'^n engaged long enough. Mabel So I think, but when I mention the subject to my brother it agitates him to the point of suffering. Don't look around Dolly, but tell me what Sir Percival Pigott is aoing now? Dolly Making great eyes at Ethel. Mabel ( Smiling) 'vVIiat wastea labor. Dolly He evidently loves her. Mabel Yes, that's the only thing I respect him for. Dolly You don't like i'lgottv Mao Hi No, never did. Doily But don't you think his devotion oontrast-^u witL Daryll' s ooldness and neglect may touch her heart in time? Mabel Nol Ethel will love Daryll through good report or evil. She will never change; bless her the darling. M U SI C s tops suddenly , (I.adv Smnburst wakes up with a start.) Lady S. Good gracious, children, what noise you've been making, f All laugh merril y. ) Mabel Oh, Aunt dear, we've all been as quiet as mice. Pigott When the old cat's asleep. ( asiae) Lady S. Well, I am quite certain I heard a dreadful noise and con- fusion, Ethel ( Still at piano .) You woke up. Auntie, when I ceased playing, that accounts for it. Lady S. Nothing of the kind, mj^ dear, I believe, nay, I'm sure of it you were all romping a.nd playing blir.a man's Duff while I v/as asleep, Pigott Lady Sunburst, I believe you romp in arrfams yourself, and renew your jolly youth when'=-ver you close yo\ir eyes. Lady S. Well, I did have some fun when I was young, I wasn't quite so prim and melancholy as these girls. Pigott vn-.y can't you wann them with some of your encjent fire, Lady Sunburst? Lady S. I wish to heaven I could. ( rising) Here ..T.ildren, we'll have a carpet dance, j'ou're four, I'll play for you, (Goes to r)iano and oiavs waltz. DollVf Mabel^ Pigott and Ethel are partners. After a few turns, the Ear l of Ledbury appears L. H. He looks very much pleered and applauds vigorousl y. ) Lord L. Bravo, bravo. (The dancers stop.l To whom do we owe this burst of diversion? Pigott To Lody Sunburst, of course, Lord Ledbury, Mabel Auntie's responsiole pspa, Laay S, I don't shirk the responsibility. Only for me you'& ell die of melanchol'y, brother. Lord L. I believe v/e v/ould sister. I must have fallen asleep in the dining room. It w as too bad of you young fellov/s to leave me to finish that bottle of port all by myself. We didn't do that sort of thing when I was a boy. Dolly I've no h'^ad for port wine, my Lord. Lord L. No, Dolly Ponsonby, lemon squashs more in your way I think, ( All laugh .) (' ) (1) Lord L. (S haking his head- aside. ') ■Not yet" always the same. If he knev/ how his absence pains- alarms me. But of course tne boy cannot knov/, CalDud) Tl-ien Mabel, we'll hardly see him until to-morrow Come Dolly, v/itn your head. ( .They exit L. H. C. ) Mabel (Putting ;>?r ana roum^ his negk.) Papa, you mustn't say severe things to my Dolly. Lord L. Indosd I wont, Mabel. I'm very fond of your Dolly but he oughtn't to let me arink a whole bottle by myself. Mabfl ■jid you drink it all, Papa? Lord I.. Oh, no not half yet Mabel. Mabel ( Aside to Dollv ) Ho?/ stupid you sre Dolly. Dolly ( Aside) How, Mabel? Mabel Don't you see that papaw^,^h?§ to finish that port and wants some one to help him? Dolly Oh, of course. (aloud) Lord I.eabury, I think I've got a bit of a heaaache and your port might cure it. f (All laugh) I.ora I.. { I,auf;hin R. ) That's the first time I ever heard of port v/ine curing a headache. But one never knows what touch^^r some people's heads. Come along, Dolly i\insby, we'll tt^ve^ the port and if that don't cure you, we'll try burgunay and then Madiera. ( Going off arm in arm with Dolly .) No news from Daryll, Mabel 9 Mabel Not ypt papa. *-•' Lord 1. ( With sigh .) ConUL on ■ th sigh .) j%, th-fyn we -i-J^n't see'^Vjm till to-Spr^w, i«^.on, DolV, wl-th yXir held. (1) Pigott ( Significantly trying to look in her eyeR .'t I have grown to be so since I came to Harcourt Towers, ( Ethel shrucfs her shoulders . "> Befoi^e that I v/as tn -- most unsentimental of men. (2) There is Daryll, Mabel (All rise.) Pigott What was that exquisite jr.nrneau you played last, Miss Vyvian? It is familiar to me and yet I cannot place it. Ethel It would be very strange if you could, Sir Percivali^I was improvising. I.aay S. (Laughing^ Oh, Ethel, that's an insinuation that your improvising is net original. Pigott f9uicklv^ By no means I.aay Sunburst, the music touched ray sympathies, that was all. f aside to her ) As everything Miss Vyvian does always must. Ethel rWearmlv .) Are you so sensitive? ^ Pi^tt Wh>*:e you ai*R conc^^ned, Y^^i^MilB^ Vy^H»fLn. Lady S. ( Flopping into chair C.) For heaven's sake children, if you've nothing else to talk about but sympathies, you'll bore ny life out, you really will. Come, run about tb^ room and play, Mabel Aunt, dear, we're no longer chilaren, I.ady S. Oh, that's evident enough but you needn't be old women be- fore your time. If you won't play, then spoon; qo some thing to interest me. Send for little Dolly and flirt with him. Do anything but talk blank verse lunacy. ( Darvll Hproourt heard outsid e . ) iJ<<, Darylfli ^ No, don't Itake him to the stable^l've only a little while to stay. Walk him about, Atkins, that's a good fellow. { Enter Darvll in full dress u niform as Captain in the Life Guards. He kisses Mabel ana Laav S. sh akes hands constrainecilv with Ethel and bows coldly to Pigott. ) (-• ) (1) Pigotl Yes, by Jove it is interesting. You know when a man leads a double life - spends one half of his existence in the West ana the other in the slums, ( Daryll starts nervously. ) Daryll I've only got half an hour to stay. It's too bad isn't it Mabel? Mabel Indeed it is. What's the trouble now, Daryll, the horrid regiment or your mysterious private affairs? Daryll Both I think are to blair.e this time, Mabel, Ethel f Coming close to him and looking him in the eves.) Daryll, I wish you nad no mysterious private affairs, Daryll So cio I Ethel, with all my heart, Ehel I meen Daryll, no private affairs which keep you away so often and so long from your father, from your sister, and from me. Daryll r Nervously .') All, Ethel, which of us can avoid his fate? Who can s^e his destiny before his face? Ethel Are you a fatalist then, Daryll'? Daryll I've grovm to be one Ethel. Oh, pardon me, dear, I hardly know whet I am saying, I'm nervous and distraught to-night Ethel. Well, Pigott, whF.t's the news in the clubs? The latest gossip, or the scandal, you're sure to knov/.it, Pigott Well really, Harcourt, there is no news of int-^rest at all, except, oh yes of course there's that peculiarly good story they're telling that concerns you. Daryll Concerns me, Pigott, Oh let us hear it, /^\ Lord J.. ( Outside) That's m.y boy's voice, I recognize it. No more 9. v/ine, James. fEnters folloy/ed hv Dollv; he embraces Darvll affeo - tionateiy .) Oh, you prodigal, you proaigal. How many more fatted cal= ves must I slay, foi thee? Daryll None dear father, none. Lord I., Ah, then you h?ve come home to stay, Daryll? Dari'll Well, not exactly, father, I can only stop hilf an hour, then I 'm off arjain for several weeks. Lord L. No, no, Daryll, not, again so soon. Daryll I can't help it father. Lord L. ( Taking him down sta?? e.) Can't help it, yes, yes, that's what I fear you distress me, you alarfli me, Daryll. Daryll r^^ith aggn med gavetv .') 'What, because I'm going away for a few weeks father? Lord L. Do not trifle with me, my son, you know what I fear, what I dread; you • • knov/ ; our family history naita: you not? Daryll C With his eves on the ground . ) Yes, father. Lord L. You know our family's curse, the hereditary taint. Has it skippea two generations and then fallen on you, my favoraity child? Dacyll ( After rtruKKle) Oh, no, no, father, not that, not tnat. 10. Lord L. Thank God, you tell me so and I must believe you, Daiyll, Mabel Daryll, you've had no dinner, Daryll No Mabel, I've had no time. Mabel HOW thoughtless we all are ( ringing bell ) and how hungry you must be, Daryll. Daryll f V/ith assumed ^ 12. Lord L. I'm sure your regiment cannot worry you; you have the kindy est of Colonels who let's you ao as you please. Daryll Because I am the son of the oldest and dearest friend, father, Mabel And what are your troubles, Daryll? Ethel "■ (Coming c lose to him. ) cannot those who love you, share them, Daryll? Dar\ai Ethel, I believe in asking those we love to share our happi. ness, not to divide our sorrows. ( Mabel rings bell. ) ( I.auKhinR with forced gayety. ) But there, my troubles good folks, are only business ones. I'm trying to make a fortune and leave bhearmy and by all the signs and tokens I'm going to do it too. f Knher Ja.mec;.) Mabel Captain Harcourt's dinner. James In three minutes, my lady. Pigott Three minutesl that will just give me time for that inter, esting story I was about to tell you. Daryll ( Insignificantly. ) Oh yes, the one you said that concerned me. Lord Concerns you Daryll? What story is that Sir Percival? 13. really Lord Ledbury. pi-c+t Weliji^SarSaonr^, I haraly know th'at I am justifi'^a m sayirxg that the story actually conceriis.^i i. ^Tiaryll. Daryii (C. ?nu back leaninu^ ac^ains t n-ia-tlepiece . •) Oh, cut your explanations Pigott, and come to th^ story, Pigott Ereo: -^.ely, Aea-s !>Q3C, Well, two of our chaps, Beazley and Newcome have become very serious of late-- Daryll Beazley and Newcome- serious- that's particularly gooa. ( Laughs. ) Pigott And as they believe in v/orks as v/ell as faith, they have taken to "Slumming.'" Lady S, "SluD^ing." good gracious whatevfji- is that? Daryll IJiy dear «unt, "Slurrafiing!" in Lonaon means visiting the slums and patronizing the poor found in them. Pigott Hov/ever, Beazley and Hewcome have taken quite seriously to their new vocation and t,.Qn©', -r night they returned from the slums to the club v/ith a most extraordinary story, Daryll This is getting interesting, Pigott This evening they hati visited the slums near Drury Lane ( Daryll starts ) and there met a well known society man, Mabel Who v/as f'.so sliiiriming- Pigott No, pardon m.e lady, Mab^^l- who was eviaently at home in the vile neighborhood and who was apparently leading a double life. ( ) ( ) (1) handsome artist lived somewhere in loho spent his money in Drury Lane whenthe drinking fever was on him, and when it left him he went back to his studio. That is what they said in Drury Lane, (2) person known as an artist in Drury Lane and who leads a double life, is a - well - personal friend of your sons, a famous officer of Catairy and a member of several of the same clubs as Captain HarOourt. Lord L, (Sinking into c>h»ir- AsiHe. ) Oh no, it cannot be. (3) Daryll (With his hand on Lord I.'s .shoulder.) A very good story indeed Pigott, but as old as the hills ana most easy of explanation. Lord L. (guicKly) Hov/ do you explain it, Daryll? Hov/ strange* 14. Ethel Daryll An optical delusion I should fancy. Pigott The society man was dressed like a poor artist, but the stamp of gentleman was all over him. Lord I.. Did your friends not speak to him, Pigott? Pigott Well, my lord, he was hardly in a condition to be spoken to. Hov;ever, when Beazley and Newcome reported this curious af- fair at the Club, w^ fonr.ed a little party for th*= following night. Lady S. Ana all went slumming. You horrid things. Pigott Precisely, P.ady Sunburst. But when we got to Drury Lane, the bird had flown. We made inquiries of the police and even in tbe gn^^ai^s and all we could learn was that %ie cO po(!s:, harN^ome a-^ist v.^b? a vlt^im to alcohol ^ici v^e^ lS;i« fit\as oii\lim j;p^^t hi^money rk^D^ry L^? heV/orlns^ soh-^rlV enoii^h at hrs stuiH^o in \oh*. Lord L. ( Coldly) But, Sir Pereival Pigott, you said this story concerned my son. Pardon me, sir, but I fail to see the connection. Pigott Only this, my Lord, if the whole thing is not, as Daryll says, an optical delusion then the scci^et^ n*^ V)4io l-eeds ^ C?-^ dovbl^ ^-\^ is^NpersonfQ friend of ^T'ur soil's, a^ off^^c^r is. theNsaihe^regmeht andrcemberNof sev^eral o^ the \ame csl,m-s, Daryll. . (j^ ... IXfaticy PJ^ott, o>ir fri^^id li\? sN^maf^ otl^r p^^qole i\j fxhe ViT'^ld has nis double. 15. Daryll The man from the West end has a double in B^ho, and the ar- tist a double in the West end. There have been thousands of suoh cases. Pigott That's the easiest explanation I know of, Barcourt, and I forced it on Beazley and Newcome who promised to leave Drury Lane alone and slum sonieilyhere else in the future. Daryll ( Aside to him .) You did, and why? Pigott Because I thought it for the best, Harcourt. Ethel ( Aside to him.) Sir Percival, I shall never forgive you for telling that dreadful story. Pigott My dear, Miss Vyvian. Mabel (Aside) Sir Percival, you had an object in telling that story. Pigott If so. Lady Mabel, only a good one I assure you. Daryll (Aside, still leaning over father's chair .) xs Pigott trying to warn me, or is he my eneiny? Pigott A little brandy after the nauseous subject please. Daryll Certainly. (Crossing to C.) Help yourself Pigott, ( Pigott does so. ) Pigott Will you not join me Harcourt? 16. Daryll Oh, certainly. ( Fills glass, raises it,, then pauses- looks at Pigott) ( Enter James ^uiakly .) James Captain Haroourt's dinner is served. Daryll (Nervously h esitating. ) No, no, nol Yes, that is as ainner is not yet ready. ( He pours out brandy and is about to arink when James enters.) Jaiiie s Captain Harcourt's dinner is served my lady. Daryll ( Looks at glass excited ly . ) (L aying down glass untouched . ) Percival Pigott, you think you know me, perhaps. Remember, I know you nov/. Come Mabel, help me to make a dinner, ( She takes his arm. Mabel and Darvll C. Lord L. L. H. Lady S. and Dollv R. H. and Pigott and Ethel at back while James stands at door L. H. ready to follow Mabe l and Darvll.) *^*- C IT R T A T N -*-* :.^?^!. .x^ *-*- HIS DOUBLE LIFE -*-* "*-* ACT II -*-* '"^rf rT^rpif^. -*- ACT II -*- SCENE 1st : A court off Drury Lane. Time 10 P.M. Exterior of low grogger y. Archway R.H. leading into Drur y Lane and wide exit L.U.E. The groggery is called the 'Happy Hom e* and back and on either side of i t is a pawnbroker's and a bakery . Both are closed but the light from the groggery and the street lam p reveal the character of the shoo s . Noise of loud and angry voices proceed from eroggerv as the cur - tain rises. It increases in volum e until nff -i(^t»r 1 P7fi f>r>mpg anri lis- tens ^t <\OQr. Officer The 'ole police sustera of this 'ere big, blooming city's wrong. The hidea of allowing such akiestilential nuisance as this ere "Appy Ome* to be open. In hall Drury Lane there ain't a viler den. When the customers is broke they fight with the landlord for free drinks and gets 'em too. If the H' inspector would only give me authority, I'd run every one of 'em in, landlord, bar-men and customers. ( Looking about ) Yes [ Yes 1 in a nice situation; just between the bread-shop and the pawnbroker's. Blest if I 'aven't seen an "Appy Qnier" wot had eat nothing for two daj's take hoff his westkit, shove it in there - ( Pointing to pawnbroker's ) for half a crown, spend hevery penny of it there (Pnintin^ to groggery) without heven dreaming of buying a loaf of bread there - ( Pointing to bgead-sh op) for his self, his wife or his starving children. I likes my glass with the best on 'em, but when I sees the misery caused by the "Appy Ome" I feels like taking the pledge and being a total habjurer for hever and hever. ( Noise heard again outside. It increases in volum e. t hen sounds of blows and falls and then quiet once "^ore - ^ There go the "Appy Omera". Black heyes and bloody noses of course . ( Peeping in at doo r) No free drinks to-night, for they've got a victim, and blest if it ain't that poor artist gentleman on his period- hi-cal spree. It's a wonder they ain't killed him afore this; but he's a tdugh customer when his blood's hup and I've seen 'im sail hin and lick half a dozen "Appy Qmera" in the twinkling of a heye. ( Enter Marge Bull through arch R.H. Madge is a ver y handsome young woman but with glaring signs of vulgar - ity and dissipation in her dress and manners. She half opens groggery door smd looks in ) Officer Looking for your man, Madge-? Madge I'm looking for my gentleman. Officer Madge, I stands keerected. He his a gentleman when he leaves the bottle alone. Madge He's a gentleman drunk or sober. Officer Right you are again, Madge; but why don't you keep him sober? Madge If he was sober for three days he'd leave no track with the likes ' me , Officer I expect you're right again, Madge. Madge I Can hear his voice. He's treating all hands. I'll go in and fetch him out. Officer Now don't try to do nothing of the kind. A petticoat in there'll raise a row. You've tried it afore, Madge. Madge What am I to do? 3. Officer Go away and come back again. He'll come out when he's spent his money and then you can take him 'ome quiet and decent like. Madge ( Again looking in ^ But I don't like seeing my gentleman, my handsome Frank hob-nobbing with roughs and thieves. Maybe IWiey'll hurt him or kill him. Officer Don't 'ave no fear on that account. He can look after hisself in there and I'll keep my heye on him when he comes out. Madge ( Going L.H. ) Thank you, officer, I'll come back again. Don't let any harm come to my gentleman. He's all I care for in the world now . (Exit L.H . ) Officer That was a nice, smart girl once and not so very long ago either. Why when she was in the ballet at the Lane the West H'end swells went wild over her. I suppose that was the trouble, that and the 'Appy 'Ome business. ( Going R.H. ) 'Ow did she hever get hold of tliat gentlemaui hartist. if Scotland Yard only knew my hintellectual capacity they'd riiake me a detective - then I'd get at his mystery and per- haps send 'im back to a real 'appy 'ome. ( Exit R.H. ) ( Loud noise inside groeeerv. Cries of "pickpock et, t hief etc. etc. and landlord in apron runs out holdin g Tommy Smkes,a bov, bv th-e collar. Th ev are followed b y a crowd of roughs young and o ld . ) You're a young thief. I ain' t no thief. Landlord Toraay Qmnes Yes he is. Run him in, guv 'nor. Landlord Didn't I see you grab that Melton Mowbray pie and them sandwiches, and ain't you got them in your pockets now? Toinray Well, I was agoing to pay for 'em, Ho'. Ho'. Ho'. Where's your money? Qmnes Landlord Tommy (Feeling In pockets) It's been stolen out of my pocket Omnes Hoi Hoi Hoi Landlord That's too blooming thin. Here officer - ( Calling off R. H.) Here's a young thief wot I wants arrested. Officer ( EnterinR R.H .) Who's he robbed? Some of these elegant gentlemen, eh? Landlord No , he robbed me . ( Enter Daryll Harcourt as Frank Rollins, the artis t. He is dressed picturesquely but shabbily, in velve t coat with lar g e turn down collar Hs ha.R a heard o f a week's crnwth and in everyway presents the stronges t possible contrast to his appearance in the first act. He is under the influence of liuuor and half stagger s as he comes down stage violently separating landlor d and Tommy ) Frank You're a liar; that boy's no thief. Who's a liar? You are ! Landlord Frank Landlord Oh, it's you, Mr. Rollins; you're a privileged character. 5. Frank Yes, I've paid for my privileges; therefore I say that boy is no thief and you're a liar. Oriines Shame '. Shame '. Frank ( Lau^hinR rather wild ly) Ha , ha [ Shame [ Ha , ha 1 Landlord Did you hear him cdll me a liar, officer? Officer I 'eard what the gentleman said and I happreciates the hobservation . Qmnes Ha, ha, ha'. Landlord The boy's got the stolen goods in his possession. ( Trying to grab the contents of Tommy's pockety but T ommy clings desperately to the m) Frank ( Taking him down s tage L .H . ) Tommy are you a thief? Tommy I never was afore to-day, sir, Frank What have you stolen, Tommy? Tonmy A Melton Mowbray pie and some sandwiches, sir. Frank Were you so hungry. Tommy? Tommy Not myself, sir, but my little brother Jimmy and ray little sister Katie ain't eat nothing in two days sir. 6. Frank (Aside) Poor little devils. (ALoiidJ Officer, you needn't arrest this boy, he's no thief; but you can arrest the landlord for defamation of character if you like. Qranes Ha , ha , ha 1 Landlord Veil vot himpudencel Did you hear him, officer? Officer I 'eard and happreciated 'im, landlord. Frank What's the value of the pie and sandwiches this boy took and forgot to pay for? Landlord Eighteen pence to you, sir. Frank And a shilling to anybody else. There's your money. I just owe Toimiy one and sixpence for odd jobs. ( Counting out money: Asid e ) It's the last penny I've got. Landlord ( T aking nx)nev and eoinR into groRRe ry ) Don'tt you never come into my place any more, Toraiay Sikes . (Exit) Frank No, don't. ( Officer and all Js^ -ttxe ^fe-wefes co off L.U. E.) Tommy, go home and feed little what 's -their -names . Tommy (Goine L H ) Yes sir. Frank And Tonmiy, you'll never steal again, will you? Tommy Never again - never. God bless you sir. ( Bursts out crvinR and runs off L.H . ) Frank (Showing influence of rirink more than ev&r) No, no, don't bless me. Can't stand it. I wasn't made to be blessed. I was born to be a curse and to be cursed. ( Staggers and finally clinps tn .lamr-rnst in front nf pawnbroker's sho pKEnter Duffy and Simmons, two roughs, R. H.) ' . SinBjions Let's grab his watch and bolt. Divil a watch tfa^W1^t.^^-bi^dte*rf^eVhW^pd^'l\^^b-day^ ^ , Simmons Well, he's got a handsome breast-pin what ought to be worth a couple of quid to us . Tru^'^oV W^^' ^^^ remember he^'^s •^st^'Stroflg: a's a- bull: iorner when iie s sober . '''■'. Simmons Yes, but he's blooming drunk now, ( fij-cnmojqga^.h gets behind Frank as though to grab him and lluf.fy^C';; h in front to grab breast -ptn. As soon however as the men touch him, Frank rouses himself an d has short but terrific struggle with them. He thr ow s : thenr- .axiff and with a powerful right hander knocks Ir. '^ . Sii mnoi^. down R.H. ^ then quick as lightning turns an d knocks nuf try 1.0 u^h down L.H. The latter gives loud cr y as he falls which brings officer on from R.H. ) Frank And these are the wretches I've been spending my money on. Oh, fool[ imbecilel when will it all end? Officer What's the matter sir? Frank These ruffians tried to rob me. Officer ( As men rise ) That's just what I've been waiting for. I'll run them, you must make the charge and appear against them. Frank Appear against them - where? Officer At Bon Street police court. Frank Oh, no, no, no 1 Besides they robbed me of nothing. ( Finding his pin still in his scar f) Officer Oh, ^lery well, sir, just as you like. Now move on you two, and thank your lucky stars as you ain't going to do six nionths at the bread-mill. Is t .Sisomons Ve didn't mean no harm officer, only in fun. ■ .Duffy- (Going ) "(with.Ti^nd to'jaw) '^ Howly Moses be*s. broken the jaw of me" (Exeunt R.H . ) Officer Excuse me, sirj but hadn't you better go 'ome. Frank "Home'." Who told you I had a home? Officer Veil, I :uean, sir, the place where you lives. Frank I don't live anywhere. I only exist on sufferance. There, leave me alone like a good fellow. ( Feeling his pocke t) I haven't got a penny or I'd tip you, officer. Officer Wouldn't take it if you had, sir. ( Goine ) Well, it was beautiful the way he landid his right and left. I knew he was a gentleman born and bred. I could tell by the way he put his 'ands up. ( Exit R.H. ) Frank That little excitement done me good; but i't's made me precious thirsty. I must have a drink; I wonder if they'd trust me at the "Happy Home." I'll try it anyhow, (goes into pTit)Iic pl-^ce) (E^nter Madge l.h.) Madge I must get him home now or he'll be ill. Then the change will come and I won't see him for weeks. ( Looks into p ub- lic ) There he is still. If I only dare go in, (Loud noise inside) Frank ( Inside ) You ungrateful dog. Refuse me, you cur. (At door ) No; I won't take it now. Let me go or I'll brain you. (Music as of a fall and enter Frank in great excite- pent ) No money, no drink. Oh, serves me right. Yet if I don't get some drink I'll do something violent. I feel the fever in my blood, the fire in my brain. (Staf-p,erg agaip.st lamp-po?t ag^in) Madge (Approachine him timidlv) Frank , dear Frank . Frank Frank, who's Frank. Oh, it's Madge. What are you doing here? Madge Looking for you, Frank. Frank I told you to wait for me at home . Madge I have been waiting all day, Frank. You .know you said you were going to work to-dayj so I tidied \ip the studio, washed the brushes, stretched your aanvass and got every- thing ready for a sober day's work. Frank Sober? Ha, ha'. Much you see of me when I'm sober. Madge Yes, Frank; but that will be all changed now. 10. Frank Changed! Why changed I/iadge r Aside ) I daren't tell him now. ( Aloud) I mean that I'm to watch you paint. You know I was to be your mod=l for Cleopatra. Frank Cleopatra? - Phyne you mean. Madge What' s that Frank? J^'rank Never mind, you wouldn't understand. ( Passes his ha.na a nrnss hjg hrnw as if in pain) Madge v;hat's th^. matter, Frank? Frank Matter? !ty tongue iscleaving to my mouth; my brow is burn- ing . ( l /xadFv4oes Jst^atHr'? Frank Pt:ic s? HavV I yu^ so iVv? Much- take i^back. It/s the p^Mce of yc^^r shas^, I k^w it isN Oh Go^ have I clxne to trri5~ 14 -1 Sovereign, what sovereign? I gave you none. I hadn't a penny; where did you get this money? Madge Oh, never mind. It served your purpose, Frank. Frank Served my $iurpose, "yesl yes I I bought drink with it. Brandy, this brandy. I say where did you get this money? Madge Oh, what does it matter? Frank Matter! Matter 1 To you, notr.ingl To me, everything! I know now; take it back. Its touch is poison. It is the wages of sin; the price of vour sharne. Oh God! Have I come to this"? Have I sunk so low as to live upon a woman's infamy. Then indeed I am accursedlamong men. ( Throwing down bottle and casting away monev in the air ) Take it back! Take it back. It blisters my hand; it sears mv soul; take it back. Gi^rcJU. ^<^^ ^ n Q To liv*^ on a ^von>fin' s inf fony There, SCENE 11;- ^ (Enter Offiaer.) Street in L.) Officer Wh\' ain't I a private detective v/ith my h' intellect and facilities, I could make a fortune and do some goo d in th< v/orld too, I knowed that Mr. Rollins was no broken down artist. He's an aristocrat and them was his friends. Well, I only hopes they will save him. That's the worst wish I 'as for the gentleman. Here they come now on foot sent their carr-.aige ' ome I suppose, ( Enter I.. H. Laay Mabel and ^igot t.) Pigott Are we going the right way to Berkeley Buildings loho, Officer? Officer Yes sir, I'm going in that dl-ection myself and if you'll follow me, you won't get molestea. Pigott Thank you, ( Exit Officer R. H. ) Mabel Now I understand poor papa's namelef^s dread. The curse of our race is on my poor brother-. Pigott But the curse may be removed, I.atiy Mabel, it is not like insanity. Active service woula inspire him and save him. 16. Mabel Very likely, but let us follow the officer, surely I have yet some influence over Daryll, Who could, who should sa\^ him but his sister. ( Exeunt R. H .) SCENE ITi; :»tg Scene shows whole of studio and part of bed-room L. 1. In cent re is easel and the walls are adorne d with rough sketches. There ar e no windov/s in rooraj. hut yl'Vli?^h t. l eading to which C. a.nn back is short stepiaader. Lounge I.. H . on which Darvll i s sleeping as scene opens .) ( Enter Madge door R. H. seeing Frank on sofa she com es quickly aown stab'^ ^. ) Via age He did come then, I feared he would wander away and then I shouldn't see hi m again for weeks. But he mustn't leave me novv', no I won't have it. If he goes, I go with him, (Changing her tone .) And I ao love him so much. Frank, dear Frank, my Frank, I must unfasten his collar. ( She does so p.n'\ he wakes u p.) So you did come home, Frank dear? Frank Yes, J came home, I drank and drank till I got soteer again. ( She offers to embracp him, out he avoids her, g o e s into bed-room and is seen to be changing his coat and vest- ) Madge ( Tossing her head .) He's got his cold fit on now, my fine gentleman. Frank, you're not going out again. Frank ( Coming out of bed-room. ) Yes, I'm going to another quarter of the tov/n, I have bu<^i- ~^ Madg-e Yes, Frank Rollins; rii^htsl My rights I Frank Rights I indeedl Do you reniersiber what you are-- wh< you have been; and talk to ine of riGlits. Madge Yes, I talk to you of rights- (Pause ) The rights of j lawful wedded wife. 17. Madge Business, at this hour? Frank Yes, even at this hour. Ma age <• Fining him And stfl.nrilng hetv/een him and the outside door. ) Then, I'll go with you. Frank ( In aj.nazement ) You go with me'? fpftnc;e^ than Ifl.uf^hing hitterlv.) Ha, ha, Madge, you're crazy. ( Goes back to bed-room to get ha t , ) Madge No, I'm not orazy. But I'm tired of being treated like a dog, caressed one mome -t and despised the next. If you go out of this house to-night, I go '7ith you; I'll have my ri ghts. Frank ( Cones out with hat in his hand-) Rights, Madge, what do you i/iean by rights? W Madge THe rJ^its. >C a>vlaw£i;l w»Hded "wif«, Daryll ( Starting back in horror for the momen t.) Wife, wife, ( Then lauf/ hing bitterly again.) Madge, a moment ago I asked you if you were crazy, I did not mean it then, but now I must ask are you mad or drunk? Madge Neither, Frank Rollin;,, I am quite sane and quite sober and stana here as your lawful weaded wife. ( Holding up her left hand to his faoe and pftinting to weading ring . ) .r Madge Memories are treacherous sojue tines see yours needs refreshinc Frank, ( takinK out rjaaer her i^o.§oni..anti kaur^ir.g V. to him.) Here's a little piece of paper that records one of the most important acts of your tife dear Frank.* i-» 0* Frank ( Takes her hand and looks at weddiiiK rlngp then con- temytiouRlv lets hand drmp.'> Bah, a ring, a toy to be bought for a few shillings. f Crosses her to R. H. ) Madse ( Seizing his arm .) Frank Rollins, you are raine for better or for v/orse till death ao us part. Frank Madge, stop this folly and let me go, Madge ^ You will not remember, or is it that you can't? Th€ji res^ ttSL>.. ( Taking paper out of her bosom and handing it to hi m. ) Frank ( Holding paper but without unfolding it .) What' s this? Madge Read, ana you' 11 see, Frank ( Unfolas paper and reads.) Certificate of marriage beVvoen i^rank Rollins aged 28 and Margaret Bell aged 22. (Looking at paper in awful horror.) This is a lie, a trick. I could not- you dare not. ( Dropping paper to floor.) Madge I t is no lie, no trick, (Picking up .) My aear husband. Frank Husbandl husbaadi oh God, v/hat nave I aone, ^mat have I done? (Looks about) Wife! My wifel ( Gives despairing cr v an.i t.r,rov/s his firm over easel.) Madge This a nice honej'moon, ain't it? Frank, where' s the wedding breakfast and the bridesmaids? Never mind, we'll have a bpnquet at Richhond to-morrow and go to Paris after^rprds. 19. Frank (Turning round very slowly and deliberately.) When did this thing happen? Tiadge What? don't you remember Frank, dear? Frank (Fiercely) I say woman, when did this hsppen? I-Iadge Yesterday morning at half past ten, the date's on the cer- tificate at the Register's office in Russell Square. Frank Yesterday? I know no yesterday, no to-day, no to-morrow. For days, for weeks, for years it seems I have been without reason, v;ithout a mind, without a soul. The black pall of fate has enshrouded me and I am lost, lost forever more. Oh father, oh Mabel, oh Ehel, Madge (Frightened at his passion.) Frank, Frank, I'll be a good v/ife, I'll be your slave. Frank Why did you do his? Madge I wanted to be made an honest woman. Frank And for t'm t you have ruined me body and soul, Madge (Dropping on her knees at his f'^et.) Oh, no, Frank, it was because I Idv^.d you. Frank (Standing ^ ^^T tier ti^^^°-^'='^''^FI "''''' ^ Woman, if I killed you for this, I would be forgiven) if I took your life here in this vile den to which you lured me, it would be no sin, no cilme, but justice, holy retribution. Madge (Risi ng to her f'^et.) Then take my life, do it if you d&re, 5^ Madge Leave this place. Py what right do you come between us. He does not leave this house wifl; out me, Ma'ani, 20. Daryll Dare, dare, v/oman. (After struggle with himself.) Oh, no, no, there's muraer in my heart, in ni\^ soul, but only there, thank Goa, thank God, (V.ith arms in air. The door R. H« opens and Mabel and Pigott enter. Pause on picture for a moment and Daryll turns his head and seeing Mabel, gives screem then bursts into tears, falls on knees at lounge and in shame buries his face in it. Mabel j.oves towards him ana her mantle falls to ground showing her to be in magnificent dinner dress with jewels &c.) F-ank (Recognizing her with shriek.) Oh, no, no, no Mabel not here, Mabel Daryll, my brother, I have jome to save you, Frank Too late, too late, Mabel, I am lost beyond redemption. I have brought shame upon myself, upon you, upon all. Mabel It is nw^r too laLe, Daryll, come leave this plac^, Madge -^ (Coming forward.) !^t without ?He, me'»m.' Mabel Whbois this woman, Daryll? Maage Woman, I am his wife. His lawful wedded wife. IlaL^l Wife, oh Daryll, my brotri«;r. This cannot bel Wifel ( aside ) i^igoLt Calm yourself I.auy Iiabel,^ his v/ii-i, i^hen SaVu-x i-L mo-u^. Madge Frank Lady Mabel, then perhaps you're a Lord, ^and I'm a countess. They tola me when I was in the ballet at the Lane I was oorn 21 for greatness and I've got it. Come my lord, come husband, we'll go home, ( Frank has gone to the hack, leaving Mabel and Madg e in C- of stage. ) Mabel You cannot go with us, madam. Madge Why not? I am his wife, where he goes, I go, that is the law. Pigott Let us leave them, Lady Mabel, we can do no good now. Mabel Oh, no, no, Daryll must come. Madge So I am your laduship's sister. Well, I am proud, and since we are sisters, Mabel, give sister Madge a loving sister's kiss, (As she goes to embrace Mahel , Fra.nk rushes down- getting between them.) Mabell Mabel, my sisterl the horror - the shame, but it must not touch you. ( To Madge) Away womani You have ruined me; don't dare to pollute her. ♦ -PICTURE -» . .♦ - C U R T A I N - ♦»« ^^ -j;*! m ^K^' / ^-^- HIS D U B J. E LIFE -^-^ ^-^- ACT III -*.=«- *-H -- ACT III - ^>--^ S C P. N K LL^t The drawing room as in Act 1st. Lapse of one week . Diseovere d:^ ^011.7 Pon!^pnt?Y. Dolly What a change in a few cays. The house of joy turned into the horn* of mourning. Poor, poor Daryll, Poor Lord Ledburry poor Mabel, poor Ethel, poor everyboay. And a fellow can't do anything about it; that's the worst feature in the case If one moves in the matter, the ghosts of society will get hold of the story, then publicity, then scandal, then shame and broken hearts. Oh, I would like to do something, break somebody's head, pull somebody's nose, or do something he- roic. ( Enter Mabel I., ri .) Mabel Oh, Dolly, how good of you to come, Dolly How good of you to send for me Mabel, Mabel You read the whole of my long letter Dolly? Dolly Every word, three times over. Mabel And don't you feel like cutting me and breaking off your engagement ? Dolly Oh, Mabel, do I f'^el like breaking my own heart and blasting my life forever? Mabel But Dolly, think of the shame that's come upon us. Dolly Dolly No shame, Mabel, misfortune, Daryll's a victim, a most unhappy one and we suffer because we love him. Mabe] rambraoing ana kissing him^ Oh, Dolly, what a comfort you are to me. Dolly M I really, I'abel? Mabel f Kissing him several times) Yes, aarling you are; my precious, indeea, indeed you are sweetheart. Dolly That's risht, Mabel, call me pet names. They sound so nice on your lips. But how changed you «re, 'laoel. Mabel yes, ..ear, m}/ pride has had a fall and I'm going to look UT) to you in future, Dolly, because you're to be a lit Me hero. Dolly Oh, Mabel, I always wanted to bp a hero. Mabel Ana nov;' s your chance. Dolly Well, "/hat am I to do? Mabel GO to that borrid place in Drury Lane that I mentioned in my letter, learn all you can about Daryll and then to that horrider place in loho and find out all you can about that creature. It seems too dreaafal to think that Daryll shoula be tied to her ail his life. Polly So it does, I 'mm. off now. I'm. a born aeteetive, I feel it. Mabel Oh, Dolly, you mustn't go now. It's aayli^ht. i>lo detect- 3. ive worx ever was done except at Pxight. Ana ycu must be mysterious. Now. pr'Tiiise me that you IsrLll be ir.ysterious, Dolly. Dolly Mabel I'll shroud myself in, a paU of inky nX7stery. But t'=-ll rae, do you fiiinx Pigott s intentions were c^ood m takig you to those places that night? Viabel f Hesitatingly ) I think so Dolly. Dolly Then I din't. I think he had a mean and vile purpose in it You say he loves athel. I. think he loves her money more and hopes to get it by ruining Daryll. I believe Pigott to be a coward and a sneak, and I'll prove it too. I/iabel Dolly, I almost think you're right. I'm getting to have such a respect for your opinion now that you're a little hero. Dolly But I ain't a hero yet. Mabel But you will be, it's, all the same. Dolly If I ain't, it won't be for want of trying, Mabel. Mabel Ah, Dolly, that's the way to talk, pet. ( Kissing ana embracing him agai n) (E nter I.adv Sunburst hastily I..H. - she stops abruptl y at seeing Mabel and Dolly ) Lady B. Can you people do nothing but spoon? Mabel (Without letti ng go of Dolly) Oh, Aunt, we're talking business. Dolly Most important business I.ady Sunburst. 4. I.ady S. So I shoula think, (Throwing herself into arm chair C.I Oh, Mabel, why dia you rot oonfide in me? Do you think because I am a frivolous old woman at times and pretend to love fun and nonsense, which I really don't, that I have no care for the family honor and no love for my d«ar, dear Daryll? Mabel Oh Aunt how did you learn — Lady S. How? Everybody in London will know it by to-morrow. Mabel Oh what cruelty! But how how did he hear - Lady S. ( Entergeticallv. ) By the same wretched means that exposes every sacred secret and lays bare the skeleton in every household: There look in your journal of society that lives on scandal and fattens on infamy. Mabel, when I was a girl the writer of such things would have been chased down Bond Street, horsewhipped in Piccadilly and banished beyond the Pale of all decent people. There send Dolly away! Mabel ( Who is C. and Dollv at her R.H. without looking at him.) Go away Dolly! Dolly well reaHy Mabel! Mabel ( Aside. ) Come back when its dark and I'll give you your instructions. Dolly. (Going. ) Very well Mabel - Ta - ta - LadySunburst - I'm so sorry - Lady S. Oh do go away Dolly. ( Exit DOLLY .) Mabel Auntie, you shouldn't be so abrupt with Dolly. Lady S. Oh, what's the use of him except to spoon with. ivlabel Don't be so sure of that. He's froing to find out all about Daryll and that womab. Lady S. He won't find out anything. He wouldn't know he was born if you didn't tell him so, fifty times a day. Mabel You'll find yourself mistaken in my Dolly. Lady S. Well I'm sure I hope so, Mabel But papa auntie does he know? Lady S. Know? Of cfeurse he knows. That thing, that paper that wretched rag was sent to him with the paragraph marked. Mabel What did he say? Lady S. He only turned deathly pale and cried out "Oh my son, my sonl " Mabel Then he was not angry? Lady S. Angry? There's no room for anger where Daryll is concerned Don't we know that he is the wictim of the fainily curse. My poor boy! Mabel \'Vhere is papa now? Lady S. Gone to the office of that papa - but what satisfaction can he hope from Sxieaks and cowards. Mabel. (Reading the paper .) The allusion is so direct there can be no mistake about its meaning. But who could have told the writer about my meetingr with the woman? Lady S. Who indeed? Mabel ( With half scream.) Nobody - nobody - but Sir Percival Pigott. Lady S. PigottI Yes - yes to be sure. He is trying to win Ethel over the corpse of Daryll Harcourt^s honor. Mabel Does Ethel know anythirj]:? Lady S. Nothing but that the barrier between her and Daryll is stronger than ever. Poor gentle, lovii^ Ethel. Hark! She's coming now to see you. Tell her no more than you can help. I dare not see her again. Her eyes haunt me nov/. (gxU R.H>) (Mabel seating herself on sofa L.C. Enter ETHEL wearily And very pale L.H. At sight of Mabel she falls on her knees at sofa and bursts into wild tears.) Mabel Ethel, Ethel, my poor girl your sorrow almost makes me for- get my own, and mine is deep enough. Heaven knov/-s. Ethel But Mabel there is no'mystery about your sorrow. You know what caused it what it's depth is - while I am treated likea child and only told that what I love is taken from me and that tht=* hope of my life is shattered. Mabel Oh believe me dear Ethel, it is for the best. There is a gulf between you and Daryll that cannot be bridged. Ethel •Cannot" Oh Mabel what have I done? 7. Mabel. You! Nothing except waste your tender loving heart. Ethel Wastei Mabel, id heart could be wasted on such a man as Darj'-ll Harcourt. He is worthy all the best a woman can give. Mabel. He was, Ethel, nay is. The real Daryll Harcourt. Ethel There - there the mystery again. What do I knov; about the real Daryll. There is only one Daryll to me. The onel learned to love when a child, the one I have been engaged to for three years. Mabel It is cruel Ethel but we must hope for the best. Ethel. Thyre - there you speak in enigmas. ( Rising to her feet . ) One moment you talk about barriers and in the next speak to me of hope. Why do you not tell me the worst - the truth Has Daryll ceased to love me? Has somebody else stolen his heart from me? Mabel Oh, no no Ethel his heart always was and always will be yours. ( Enter SIR PERCIVAL PIGOTT R.H. ) Pigott Pardon me ladies if I intrude. Ethel ( Recovering herself ranidlv. ) Not at all sir, you are as welcome as usual. Pigott (Aside^ ) That sounds promising. I wonder if she has heard. I better seize my opportunity. ( Aloud) Lady Mabel, I came to speak a few words to Miss Vyvian-- Mabel Oh, certainly Sir Perxrival. Shall I go Ethei? 8. Ethel Yes, please do Mabel, I want to hear what Sir Percival has to say, Mabel ( Going R. H. w ith newsoaner in his h&nd.) Sir Percival, your friends of the society Journal have lost no time. Pigott ( Aside) The fools, have they published that story already? (Ainnd) I really havenH seen the paper yet, Lady Mabel. tV.Yit MRhftT R. H.^ Pigott Miss Vyvian, I think you understand why I sought this inter- view? Ethel I think I do, Sir Percival, Pigott That makes my task the easier. I forbore to speak before, but now that obstacles, un surmount able ones, have arisen to prevent your marriage with Captain Hare our t, I feel jus- tified in pleading my own cause. Miss Vyvian, Ethel, I have loved you since I first had the happiness of knowing you. I bear an honored name, have an unsullied reputation and I ask you to be my wife, Ethel Sir Percival, you fancy you understand us women-- Pigott Well, really — Ethel You talk of obstacles, but do not tell me what thyy are. Pigott I thought you understood, Ethel Possibly, I understand enough obstacles have arisen to pre- vent my imrriage with Daryll Harcourt, but none have appear- ed or ever can to prevent me loving him. ( Enter DRRYLL who remains at back , ) 9. Ethel I was brought up, I might almost say born to love my cousin and if, instead of the hero and gentleman I have always known him, he should become the basest of mankind and come to me stained with every crime, I should love him the more deeply because rn/ love would be the more needful to him. Sir Percival, you have ray answer. Pigott Miss Vyvian, I am bound to accept it. (aside) I have been too hasty; but timeis on my side. Now for Madge Bell and loho. (aloud ) Miss Vyvian, I take my leave and ask pardon for giving you pain. ( Exit R. H . ) Ethel How m/ head aches, I am not strong enough for all this excitement, ( Reels and is apparently about to fall when Darvl l r uns down and catches her in his arms.) Ethel! Daryll Ethel (Recnveringr) Daryll I ( About to throw her arms round his neck when she re- members her position and gets out of his embrace. ) Forgive me, but I am not well. Daryll ( Passionately) Ethel, I heard what you said to Pmgott, and if I loved you before how much-- ( ir-auses- tuxning awa y . ) Oh God, what a heart I have lost, lost, lost forever. Ethel You must have thought me mery unmaidenly Daryll- I did not know you were in the room - I - I, ( Swoons and is about to fe 11 when Darvll catches her again. ) Daryll Mabel, Mabel. ( Enter MABEL and T.ADY S . t Ethel has fainted. 10. ( Ladv S. give s her smelTlnf? sa-lts.) Lady S. Leave her to me, children. ( Darvll and Mabel set in background. Fthel recovers^ Come child, you must lie down you have been overwrought. Ethel Yes, that's it aunt, I have been overwrought. I'll lie down if you'll come and put me to bed as you used to when I was a little child. ( Going with Ladv S. but never turning round to see Darvll .) Auntie, don't tell Daryll I fainted. He has so much sorrow of his own, he oughtn't to be disturbed by my little trou- bles. Lady S. No child, I'll tell him nothing. (Exeunt L. H.) Daryll ( Throwing himself into chair . ) Oh, Mabel, Mabel, my punishment is greater than I can bear. That poor girl's sorrow strikes at ny heart and turns it dead as stone. Mabel You cannot help it, dear Daryll, you are a child of fate like poor Ethel, and who can fight his fate? Daryll Oh, no, no Mabel, that is a sophistry that pleases such co- wards as I have been. It is like our poor father's talk of the family curse, the hereditary taint, vain, shallow pretense. God gave me health and strength and it was my duty to fight and resist. Yet what have I done? yielded like the coward that I was, because it was easier to suumic than to struggle, and vice was so much cheaper than virtue. Mabel, I am not fit to exist. I have spent weeks, nay months among the scum of liis great city; I have lived in the gutters, there, there let me die. (COYgring l>is fg^cg.) Mabel ( Kneeling to him. ) 11. Mabel Daryll, Daryll, my brother; it is I Mabel, your sister, who speaks to you: I cannot see into the future; but believe me, this trial, this suffering is but a cleansing fire, out of which you will come purified and redeemed. Daryll ( Rising to his feet. ) Oh, Mabel , you do not say your purity and goodness blind you think, think sister to what I have chamned rryself for life. Mabel I have thought, Daryll, Daryll Think of the sister I have brought to you, the daughter I , have given my father Mabel, I have exchanged, Etbel, one of God*s purtest and fairest creatures for a thing so vile, that to name her in your presence is to spread a contagion If you could see with my eyes and feel with my heart, you would shriek and cry as I do, God has no mercy left for such as me redemption has passed away forever and a shameful death is a righteous expiation, ( Going UP stage as if to rush off. ) Mabel ( Clinging to him . ) Daryll, I do see with your eyes and feel with your heart, for I am your sister, and I say God has mercy left and will cover you with it. Daryll, one folly, (he turns round tn her. ^ well on e crime cannot bL ot out the record of a noble life. You are my brother, your father's son, and where was there ever a better brother or a nobler son. ( Clinging to him. ) Daryll, you have two selves. You must, you shall throw away the vile one and return to your nobler nature. Ah, Mabel Daryll Mabel, if I could but have your faith, Mabel You shall have it, Daryll ( kissing him. ) I»ll breathe it into you. Daryll, you should have seen us here at hoiLe when the news came that you had won the Victoria Cross in the Soudan; Ethel and I toasted you at dinner, and drank to 12. the health of our hero brother. Papa seaaed to tread on air and read the account till he knew it off by heart and we talked of your boyhood and your youth and remembered how though you were as strong as a young lion you were as gentle and tender as a dove. We could recall nothing that was not noble, gentle, generous and brave. Daryll, is such a life to be wasted for one error, one sin. No, a thousand times no, grace and mercy exist and you shall seize them. Oh, wy brother! Daryll ( Putting his hands to his eyes.), h, Mabel, there are tears 4n my eyes ilrhere I thought they could never dare come again. You have breathed some of your faith into me. I will fight, I will struggle, I will beat down my enemy, I will conquer myself. Mabel Ah, Daryll, those are noble words, there your old spirit speaks. I will pray for you, and we will triumph. Daryll ( Kissing him . ) Dear noble girl. (Looking at his watch. ^ But I must dress, I have to make my appearance at the Colo- nels, and I have to see that woman. Mabel Is that necessary, Daryll? Daryll Yes dear, I must arrange with her and prevent her annoying you or ray father. Mabel But had you not better send a friend or agent? Daryll No, no Mabel, I will see her myself, it will be for the last time. (Going L. H. ) Mabel, dear, prevent Ethel and my- self meeting if you ca-n, for the present; if I look into her eyes again, I shall despair, not hope. ( Exit L. H. ) Mabel eyes. ) IS. There* s no such word in w vocabulary. There is a way out of this, there is some star to guide us into peace and safety. ^TTnt.Pr DOT.T.Y in ftvfinir.y dress with caoe overcoat. 1 Mabel f T mrnlRivftlv t.hrnwi ng hftr arniR about him.) Ah, yes Dolly, you are our star of hope, you will lead us all into daylight again. Dolly Really Mabel, how you talk. You are getting excited like the rest. Well, here I am ready to make my debut as an amateur detective, Mabel But Dolly, that won't do, you're not made up. Dolly Made up? Mabel Detective must make up; at least, they always do on the stage and in novels. Dolly What am I to make up as? Mabel I was just thinking about that Dolly. Suppose you make up as a Jew money lender. Dolly I'd have to wear a false nose and everybody would see throug)*- it. No, that won't do, Mabel Then go as a That's very effective on the stage. All you've got to do is to we r corduroys, have a very dirty face, and let your beard grow for a week. Dolly But I can't do that between now and 10 o'clock to-night. 14. Mabel That's fine. Oh, what are we to do? Dolly Leave it to me N4abel. I'll disguise myself- (aside) in drink I guess. CAinilili so that nobody will Icliow me. Mabel These are your instructions, (Criving him paper.) Dolly And I will report to you to-morrow- good bye, Mabel. (Kissing hey raping R. H. ) I wonder where I'll be at midnight, in jail or in the hospi- tal, one or the other, for I'm a desperate man. (Flxit R» H. ) Mabel I'm sure Dolly will acquit himself well. It's such a chance for him. If I were a ma, I'd glory in such an oppoi" tuni ty . (Kntfir LORD T.KnT^TTR,Y t., h. ) Lord L. Mabel, Mabel, why did you not tell me? Mabel Oh papa, I wanted to spare you. Lord L. Yes, yes, that's it as if I were a poor weak old man unfit for the battle of life. That's the way they treated me at the newspaper office. I challenged the editor and he told me duelling was impossible in England; I offered to fight him ill France, in Belgium, and he laughed at me - at me, Mabel. But Daryll shall vindicate us all yet. The honor of the Hareourts was never tarnished before. (Enter DARYLL hastily L. H. ih evening dr e^s wi th serai -military nve.rc.cp. t on his p.rm. Hr starts nn spr-. ing his father and then drops on his knees before him.) Daryll Oh, father, dear, honored father, I dare not ask for pardon only pity, give me that, give me that! 15. Lord L. (Raising him up and embracing him with great tende r- ness. ) Oh, my son, my son! 'tis I who should ask pardon, I should have warned you in your early youth; watched over you as a mother does her babe. But I was too hopeful, too confident too proud of my boy. 'TisI who should sue to you for par- don and ask Heaven for mercy and pity in this sore hour of trial. Daryll Father, father I will conquer. I cannot wipe out the past. But the future is mine ( standing between the m) and with such a father and such a sister, mercy would be mockery if it failed me now. Father, sister, I will conquer, so help me God. *-*- CLOSED IN - »-» SCENE II:* Drury Lane as in Act II. Heavy rain falling. Landlord at door o f p ublic talking to office r. Officer Bad night for business. Landlord. Landlord 'Orrid, simply 'orrid, ain't taken in three bob since six p . hem. Officer Oh, well the people' 11 be coming out of the theatres soon and then you be busy enough. Landlord That's what I'm a looking forward to. Tommy (Outside^ H'urabrellas real gingha*tti6nly two bob each. Landlord Well, that's a new wrinkle. 16. Officer Well, blest if it ain't little Tommy Jikes. ( Enter TOMMY with umbr ellas under his arm and one over his head . ) Well, Torarny, 'ows business? Tonmy Oh, bad sir. The rain h' interferes with it. Landlord I'd thought that would »ave 'elped it now. Tommy So it would, if cabs wasn't so blooming cheap. Officer 'Ow many have you sold, Torimy? Tonrny Three, sir. Landlord Well that h' ain't so blooming bad. Tommy Yes, but the covey not bought the last, one ran away with- out paying for it. ( Crying . ) ficer That's too bad. Tommy. (H oarse voice heard inside calling? "landlord".) Landlord I must go and attend to my solitary customer- all right sir, H' im coming. Officer Who is he? Landlord A sharper, looks like a sailor with consumption. He's drinking rum and milk for his cough anyhow. (Exit. ) ( EnterDOLLY dressed as in previous scene, but wearing wig, Dundreare whiskers and eve ?Tlass. ) 17. Toraiay H'umbrellas, sir? real gingham. Dolly What a happy thought, left mine in the cab. How much boy? Tommy Two shillings each. Dolly Give me two then- ( takes them and gives monev i Here officer, have an xmibrella? Officer H' ain't allowed to use 'em on duty, sir. Dolly Never mind, I'll hold itover you* head, I want to talk to you. ( Op ens teoth \imbren».Sj ho lding nnp n^rpr hi 9 nwn hp ad and another over officer ' s. ) Now go away boy, Tommy Here's your change sir. Dolly Never mind the change, but go away. Tonrny ( Goirtf ? L. H. ) He, ha, he's an 'owling swell h'out on a blooming lark, (Kxi t. ) Dolly Now officer, I'm doing a little amateur detective work. Officer (Aside) A nice way to go about it. (aloud) Yes sir. Dolly I may tell you at once sir, that I am disguised. Officer So I sees sir. 13. Dolly Now, what do I look like officer? Officer Well sir, if you h'asks me candidly I should say a lion comique from the Music 'Alls. Dolly Good, very g-ood. So long: as I donH look like myself I'm satisfied. Now, I want to ask you about my friend Daryll, that is about one Frank Rollins, an artist. Officer (Asides What, another on 'em. I wonder if he's a real friend of the poor gentleman, I'm sure the baronite ain't. (Aloud. ) Well sir, I do know the party and he used to come round here, but I ain't seen him lately 'cos I've been off this beat for a week, Dolly Thank you. Now about one Madg-e Bell, a young woman who used to keep company with Daryll- I mean Frank Rollins? Officer Well, I knowed her too, but she don't come round here now, Dolly How's that? Officer Well, she seems to have got hold of some money, dresses well and avoids the Lane. But law, sir, if you want to get information about them parties, the public house and the people wot frequent it can tell you h'all about 'em. Dolly Thank, thank you very much, ( Giyint? him money .) Would you like to retain the lambrella? Officer DassnH sir. There's two parties as 'as reason to know Mr. Rollins. (As he gftfiS nff, entftr DTTFFY ft-nd STiviMONS. ) Dolly I will examine them, my good friends, permit me. 19. Dolly I'm doing a little amateur detective work and I want some information. Do you know one Frank Rollins? Duffy Be got, we've reason to. Simmons Know 'am? well rather, Dolly Now, when did you see him last? Siranons I vonder if he's a blooming fake? Duffy Excuse me, sir; but answering questions h*is coj^d and thirsty work in the h'open h'air on a wet night. Dolly Eh, why bless my sduI I forgot. Walk in gentlemen, and we'll have some refreshment. Permit me. ( Sheltess them with umbrellas until thev are insid e I think 107 detective work is going to be a howling success. ( Exit into public. Enter SIR PERGI VA L PIQ QTT ,, he looks gound and then whistles which brings back offi- cer.) Pigott Now then, officer, your chance has arrityed at last. You ant to be detective, there is your warrant from Scotland Yard, a policeman will relieve you at once. Officer Thank you very much, sir, but I'm in uniform you see. Pigott That don't matter for to-night, I want you to go to loho you know where I mean, keep your eye on the place and note every person who enters or leaves. Officer What do you expect to find, Sir Percival? 20. Pigott Much, they may spirit the woman away. She is entitled to fortune and rank too and her enemies may resort to desperate means . Officer I'm fly sir, lUl await your instructions there, sir. :Exij Pigott If Madge follows my advice, lUl bring their pride down.) (Looking into public. ) I wonder if he's broken out again. Sure to do it. ( Knter from public, DirFFY and SIlvMONS. e ach carrying umbrella and each with b i p- cigar in hi.^ mouth. ) Simmons Pardner this is pie. Duffy Arrahit's too good to lave will come back agin. ( Go off arm in arm R. H. ) ( Enter DOLLY from public, he steps into street. ) Dolly Bless my soul, raining again. I wonder what I could have done with my umbrella. Hello, by Jove, there's Pigott. How lucky Vm disguised, or he'd have recognised me. Beg your pardon, have you seen a small boy who sells ximbrellas? Pigott No sir, (Still looking into public. ) Dolly Excuse me, but I'm doing a little private detcetive work. Pigott (Going ili\Q PMiPiJ.?.) Darnn your detceitve work. (gxi t. ) Dolly Aw thank you, I thought Pigott was a fiheak and I*m able to prove it now. Aw there's the umbrella boy. Hi, hi, boy I want you. (Exit, t.. h. t (Enter PIGQIT f rom public .) ( . 21. Pigott There's nobody there but a sailor. lUl find him in loho if Madge hasnU proved herself a fool. (Enter DOLLY with fmir imbrellftS.) Dolly I hope I shan't lose these like the rest. I wonder what became of the others. ( Enter half dozen men on their way to public .) ( including Siranons and Duffy who have ip umbrellas nov ) Duffy How much did you get for yours? Simmons Six pence, pard, Duffy Are, yer no business man. I got a shilling" ( Same crowd going into public. ) Shall we thry 'em again? ( Turning up his collar . ) Simmons ( Boing same . ) Vy not, courise, pie don't come h'our vay hevery night. ( Exeunt into public . ) Dolly Gentlemen, gentlemen, excuse me addressir^ you without in- troduction, but I'm doing a little detective work. Oh, ex- cuse me, come in and have some refreshment first, Orones Now you're talking, Dolly Quite so. Permit me, (Bus, of covering them as thev enter. ) What jolly work this detective business is to be sure. ( Exit into publi c.) ( Enter TOMMY L. H . 22. Tomray What luck I*m in sold sij xjmbrellas to that swell. Wish I could sell this other two then Vd go home. Umbrellas, umbrellas, ( Enter from public DUFFY and SIMMONS , each with two umbrellas, one of which iscarried o penlv and the other partially concealed . ) Simmons ( Wiping his lips as if he had .lust drunk . ) Pard, I *ated to tear myself away.) Duffy Simmons, the Lord's good to the Irish. ( Thev exit . ) Tonmy H'umbrellas, h^umbrellas! (Enter DOLI.Y arm in arm with BILL STANDISH. the sailor (Dnlly Rhnws siip-ht signs of drink. ) Dolly Excuse me, but I think you are the only person I haven't interviewed in this vicinity. Bless me, ranway again? Whereever have ray lunbrellas gone to. Ah, there's the boy. How many have you got boy? Tommy Two, sir. Dolly Just enough. (B uys thea and holds one over his own head and other over Bill's . ) Torrmy ( Going .) I've cleared out my stock and ain't made no sacrifice neither. (Hunfi off L. H.) Dolly I*m doing a little amateur detective work, tw friend, now do you know one Frank Rollins? 23. Bill Never heard on him. I 'm a stranger here. ( Bursts into violent fit of couehing) Dolly My friend, have you the grippe? Bill Worse than that, sir. I've got my death-blow. I'm dying of consumption. Dolly Really that's too bad. Keep under the umbrella. Now then, if you're a stranger here I need hardly ask you if you know one, Madge Bull? Bill Madge, Madge Bull, (nnuehs acain^ The very woman I'm seeking. Dolly The same here. Bill ( Fiercely ) Are you her lover? Dolly Not much; never saw her in my life, but want to ever so much. She don't come round here now, but I know where she lives . Bill Give me her address, quick'. Dolly Oh yes; but give and take in this world. If I give you her address will you return here and tell me all about her. I can't leave this place for the present. Bill I proraise you - ( CouRh ) on my word of honor. Dolly I'll take your word of honor. Her addressis Berfeeley Buildings, loho . Do you know the place? Bill Well, sir, well. I'll go there at once and return as soon 24. as possible if you'll wait for me. Belly Certainly I will. Here, you'd better take a cab. waiving him mnnp.v) Bill God bless you, sir. ( Runs off R.H. ) Lolly I 'm a born detective, by Jove, and what jolly work it is too . ( Enter crowd of men L.H. including Duffy and Sim nons on way to public house ) Gentlemen, excuse me, I'm doing a little amateur detective work and if you'll all come and drink with me, I'll examine you one by one . Oranes 'Ear[ 'Earl Simnons ( As they move to ro in) Ai n't it risky, pard? Duffy Well , maybe it is . Dolly Come, gentlemen, my invitation included everybody. Duffy Bejabbers, that settles it. (Exit into public house - Dollv has umbrella bus. with them ) ( All RO into public house as scene closes) -*- END OF SCENE TT -*. 25. SCENE 5rd ! The studio as before . Discovered : Madge discovered handsome ly pressed. She is examining parcel of new dresses stnd spreading them out before her . Madge He don't stint me for money and I'm better off than I ever was before. But clothes and money don't make a lady. It's the society she keeps. I'm his wife and I'll be recognized. I'll drive out with Lady Mabel and break that Ethel's heart; that's what I'll do. I 'm no t going to be slighted; not much. (Entgr DARYt^L tlftStUy) Madge Oh, Frank, you've come. Daryl 1 Yes, and for the last time. You have broken your word to me and I'll triist you no more. Madge Well, I want to be your wife, not your pensioner. Daryll Silence, woman', don't pollute the holy name of i*ife. I am your victim; you have ruined me; let that suffice. Now, what do 3^ou want? Madge I want to be your wife in fact; to be taken to your home, meet your father, sister and the rest. Daryll ( After a violent mental strugg le) Look, Madge, there is only one way out of this, and it is a terrible one. My life or yours; beware woman lest I make the choice . Madge You cannot frighten me, Daryll Harcourt. Daryll But I can myself: and I'm seized wi th an awful terror as I ri«o J 26 . stand in your presence. Oh, beware woman, beware'. Madge Oh, I'm tired of this. I ain't going to live in an attic any more. I'll present myself to your father and sister and deiaand my rights. Daryll ( Standing over her thgeateninglv) I have told you, woman, that it was my life or yours. Drink has not passed my lips for a week and never will again; but my brain is on fire and my reason seems to be tottering. I feel that a look, a word, will turn me into a demon'. Madge Oh, tell that to your Ethels or Mabels, not to me. I 'm a woman, not a child. I'll go to your father now. ( Rising and attempting to cross him. Daryll seizes her by the throat with left hand) Daryll Move at your peril. Madge I will have my rights . Daryll By Heavens', you shall. ( Without letting go of her he seizes easel knife fro m table with his rieht hand and is about to stab he r. She screaiiis) Daryll ( Dropping kn ife to floor) Oh, God', what was I about to do? ( Hs tremhlss from hftad to fnnt and thpn nvi.kfts rush into room L. H. an d throws himself on bed.) Madge ( After pause) He meant it that time. I went too far. It will come if I ain't careful. Why can't I be contented? (Crnine -Jntn room) He's swooned. I must get assistance - a doctor. Oh, Heaven if anything should happen to him now and here. Oh, no, no'. ( Gets bonnet and shawl and runs to door as it is opened b v Bill Stand ish. ) 27. ( Madge gives sGreain, reels ami falls aeainst C. table) Bill ( With Gou^h) So, Madge, I've foiind you. Madge You, youl Bill, alive? Bill No, half dead from consumption, that's all. Madge They told me you were drowned. The newspapers said so. Bill I c:an ' t help that. Why did you leave our home in Milwall? Madge I got tired of living alone. Bill And Annie, our little girl, where is she? Madge Dead I Bill ( Violently) By your neglect. I know you what you were when I married you. You killed that child. Madge You lie. Bill Standish'. Bill I lie, eh? (Seizing her dress ) Where did you get these fine clothes? You never cajiie by them honestly. And why do you live here? ( Crossing to L H . ) Who is that, lying there? Madge That - that's my — Bill Your lover, hussy'. Strumpet that you always were. (Coughing) What have I come back for. My little child dead - my wife a - yea, yes, I've come back for revenge 1 28. rSpi7Pg Vnife a.nci gtflhg hpr onnp; Mafif^p Hnrfiam^! anri runs UP ladder leading to skylight. Bill is stoppe d by another fit of coughing and then pursues and follo ws hPr nut n n tr> ronf MITSTT - pause Thgfl SQreStfn and Bin rtr>me<:: d nwn ifl.ridpr with hloody knife in his hand. He throws knife on table and seeing blood on his hands wipes them on white eloth lying on tabl e .) Bill I didn't intend to do it; but I've finished her. (Goes back to ladder) Yes, she's gone. She'll fool no more men. Serve her right. Serve her right. (Coughs violently again) How cold it is and I've to go out into the rain and the street again , ( His eve now falls on Darvll's cloak hanging over eassl) That looks warm and comfortable. (Puts it on ) I suppose it belongs to her lover there. Never mind, it'll suit me to-night. Murder frrst and robbery afterwards. I'm getting on. (Seeing key in door ) That's something. (Takes U put pf dgor) I'll lock them in and take the key with me. That'll give me a start, and I'll be out of London before the thing's known . ( Exit: heard to look door from outside and cough as scene closes in) -;}c- END OF SCEN E III -*- 29. SCENE 4th . T he groggery again. The place i s now dark it being af ter hours. Dolly is seen standing outside public wit h his umbrella up. He_ looks ver y miserable. Dolly This ain't so jolly as it was. I wonder if the landlord shut up because it was after hours or because we drank him out. I really don't know the time as one of the egntlemen whom I inves Ligated borrowed my watch and so far has for- gotten to return it. I wish my consumptive friend would come back. It's beastly cold and uncomfortable here. ( Bill heard couehing outside R.H. ) Oh, here he is. I recognize his ■coui:,hing. R. H .) Dolly Bless my soul, man, where 's your umbrella. You'll be wringing wet in a minute Bill I left it with her. Dolly Herl Oh yes, with f/;adge Bull, you saw her then? Pill (Hoarsely) Yes, I saw her. Dolly (Hrnriing iiTT.hrellR over his head) Anybody with her? Bill Yes; a man. Dolly (A.^iiie l That must be Daryll and I've been waiting here for notiiing. (Aimid^ v/ell, what did the man say? Pill He didn't sa" notiiing, he was asleep. Dolly ( Impatiently ) What did I'/iadge Pull have to say for herself? 30. Bill (CouFThing) What's that to you? Colly Here my consTJuaptive friend, don't assxime that tone with me. Remember if it hadn't been fir me, you wouldn't have seen Madge Pull at all. Pill tilQllgiiillG) I wish to God I hadn't. Dolly ( Scrutinizing] him closely and drawing him under lam p post .) What's that on your forehead - what's that on your shirt, on yo\ir hands? Man, it is bloodl Maybe. Let me go, vmose is it? Bill Dolly Bill Mv own Dolly That's a lie. There's been mir.chief in loho. Here come along with me. (.^hmit,1ng)- Officer- Police! Pill Let me go, T sayl ( Thev have violent struggle, and Pill finally trips vtnl^^r and runs Off I Having cloak in his hands. Doll y has never rel inouisiied the umbrella, and squats on ground under i t. Dolly When did he get this garment? It's a m.ilitary cloak. (Look^-^ under collar) Great Heavenl Daryll Harcourt 2nd. Life Guards. There'; been foul play. Perhaps Daryll is murdered. Cab - cab - (Hansoroe cab, drives on to stage . ) Dolly ( Now on his feet). Perkely Buildings, loho, and drive like the devil. ( Poiiv and cab go off R. H. ) 31. f; c e n e V:- THE STUDI O. As scene opens, Darvll is seen t o move on bed then to pet up. Daryll How cold it is. (T.Qokinj? out) No wonder with that skvr light open. Mad^je, what did you open it for. (Cnmini; out) Madge, where can she be? (X's to door) Loekedl V7hat does it mean? ( Standing over C. table ) I can scarcely think. Let me recall what happened. Madge and I quarelled. She had high words- I threatened her life. (Seeinpr bloodv kni'^e., and taking it up- then droppin g it.) Oh Godl NoJ Noll I fiid not do it. I could not. But, the bloodi ( Taking up cloth ) and blood here again. Am I miirdererl Madge' Madge I Answer me. ( Turns round to go up stage ) Blood here too — It must be hers. I am a n^urderer. I am accursed, ( Is going UP steps as scene changes . LiRhts low dovm ) Scene VI ! - The roof o f the ?;turiio with view of roofs, tall chimneys, church spires (S.-.C. Skv cloudy with Moon . Bells aszam . Disco x^ered ;- Mad^e Ivine on her back C. At back is skvlight thrown open . Music. Darvll seen to come UP ladder. He frets on ntag e, moves about and his feet touch he r body. He gives start and crv - then drops on knees and looks into Madf^e's face . Daryll It is Madge. But no I She cannot be dead. Madge I Madge: Come back; speak to m.e. Madge, tell me I am no murderer. Madge, come and lift this crime off my soul. (Listens for her breathing) 32. ( The roof^ view of house-tops, etc. Madge's body C. Daryll is seen to appear at skylight then reach stage He moves about and his foot touches body. He starts £ dd then kneeling lifts up her head looks into face.) Daryll MadgeJ Madge J you cannot be dead. No, no J Speak to me girl, tell me ithrs is some ghastly dream. Madgel Madge I did not kill you. I could not, oh come back Madge and lift this crime from my soul. Not a word. Not a word - it is the silence of death. ( Lets her head fall back to ground.) This murdered and by my hands. Oh cursed thrice accursed wretch that I a^ni ( Striding his breast ) Fool, sot, assassin. Oh God close the gates of mercy agains me.' Open wide the doors of hell and let me in. (Noise heard below . ) ( He moves on knees to sfeylight and listens . ) Footsteps I They are cooing to the studio. They want meJ Well, let them take me I am a murderer. But father, Mabel, Kthel, how they will suffer. For their sake I should before ( Listening ar;ain. ) They ar-'. trying the door. They will break it open. ( Leans down through skylight pulls up ladoer and le ts back skylight. Listeningstil l . ) They find no one. Will they make their way here. They cannot. Ah they are going - yes - yes - now I ai.i free - ( Moving back to A4adge's body . ) Free - free - with this upon me - oh no, I am bound in ever- lasting fetters thatchain my soul to peroition. (Still on vr.^^g with aT-.^c! -jn amr as curtain falls.) :-:-ClJRTAI_N -:-: *-*- H T a n i» II R I. E I, T F E -*-* *-*- ACT IV -*.* *:*:*:*:*:*:•:*: 5k: *:*:*:*:j|e:Jk:*:*:5(t:*: *:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*: *:)(t ' H I L> D [) B I. K 1. I F S. " *.*- ACT IV .*-* k:*:*:*:*:5|t:stt:*:*:*:*:*:*: + :sc:*:5if:*:*:*:%:>k:*:*:^:4r *-*- ACT IV . ^-^ SCENE I; ^ The Library in Hareourt Castle . This should be a handsome set, with book shelves, alcoves, statua ry. oil paintings o^ walls I.. H. i s full length oil painting of the Earl of Ledbury and R. C. is bay window leading out into lawn bu t concealed t^v curtain s. T I M E :>k Early forenoon, two days after a c tion of third ac t« Discovere d ;- I.ORD LEDBURY seated in chair at library table with newspaper in hi s hand. LADY SUNBURST is standing by his side. Lord L. Chariot ty, they are hounding Daryll on to his death. Lady S. Indeed brother, it looks so. Lord L. I correct myself, not they hut him; he has a secret, malig- nant foe; two days ago they published the story of his folly no- his misfortune, his connection with that woman, and now since that unhappy woman is dead- murdered as it seems they would link my son's name v/ith the foul crime. Lady S. But brother, no names are mentioned. Lord L. They are not necessary in such cases. ( Reading from paper . ) "The police have little or no doubt that the unfortunate woman was murdered by the man she had married a week pre- siously and, who though known in loho as Frank Rollins an artist, was better known in the West End as a famous Cavalry officer, a notable society man and the younger son of one of the most respected peers in England, enough? Is not that direct Lady S. But what evidence have they of Daryll' s guilt? Lord L. His guiltl they can have none. W son is as innocent of the crime as I am myself. These reports emanate from a base and insidious enemy who would stab us all in the back but who knows that Daryll is innocent. If the police think him guilty why do they not arrest him? why is he not brought before a magistrate? Lady S. Daryll can have but one enemy, his rival. Lord L. His rival? Lady S. Sir Pereival Pigott who loves or professes to love, Ethel and who has found her so loyal to Daryll. Lord L. Oh no, no, do not say that, Charlotte, I have always ad- mired and esteemed Pigott. He has sat at my table broken bread with me, he cannot be our enemy. Lady S. Mabel thinks so, Ethel thinks so, so does little Dolly Pon- sonby, and I know Daryll never trusted him. Lord L. But to accuse my son of murder, and such a murder, I cannot bring myself to believe so basely of Pigott. (Enter IvIABEL hastily R. H. ) Lord L. Ah Mabel, you have brought us news. Mabel No papa, not a word or a sign from Daryll, I have tele- graphed and sent messages to his barracks to all his clubs and can find no one who has seen him since he left here two aays ago. 3. I.ady S. Why should Daiyll hide himself? it is so unlike him- he cannot know of what he stands accused. Perhaps, perhaps, he too- I.ord L. ( Rising in egitation.) Sister, I read your thoughts. Perhaps he also has been murdered. Daryll carried money and valuables v/ith him where would he profit in his death; they have murdered him and buried him in the slums to which he wandered. (Going I.. H.) Mabel Oh, no, no. Papa, Daryll lives; this is only another mystery added to the rest, I.ady S. Brother, where are you going? ( As Lord I., in great agitation gets to doe)r I.. H .) Lord L. To fathom these mysteries, to end this suspense, I cannot bear the tension, Mabel, my child, it is wearing your young life out. I'll drive to the Home Secretajry' s, W boy shall not be tried by newspapers and secret enemies. He shall stand before his judges and demand justice, A peer of England's son may ask for that as well as a peasant's. Lady S, Brother, do you feel strong enough for the task? Lord L. God w ill give me strength sister, I am sadly shaken up by these troubles and I'll end them and be strong again, the honor of the Harcourts is in deadly peril; but I am its guardian and I must vindicate it. ( rather feeblv. ) It's the suspense and dread that try me so much. Let me only clear my boy and I'll be my boy and I'll be my old self again, you'll see. ( Exit L. H .) Lady S. (Sinking into chair.) Oh, Mabel, Mabel, I fear for the worst. Mabel Worst? What worst, Aunt? Lady S. If Daryll was so dementea, so irresponsible as to marry that woman, why might he not in frenzy have ---- Mabel fWith ficreaa. ) Oh, no, no, Aunt impossible. His marriage was a passive act, but killing- murder, oh, no, no, he could not. renter ETHEI. R. H. in s^reat agitation.) Mabel & Lady S. Ethell Ethel How can you- how dare you to speak to me - you two? Lady S, Ethel, my child, Mabel Ethel, sisterl Ethel Laay Sunburst, I am not your child, Mabel Harcourt, I am not your sister, you have kept it all from me but now I know, Mabel Ethel, we acted for the best, Ethel Best! was it for the best to plunge me in doubt and fear, to torture me with misgising? I am no child Mabel Harcourt I am. as old in years as you, and I say your conduct was not sisterly, it was mean and selfish, Mabel Selfish Ethel? Ethel You knew of Daryll' s troubles and you kept the knowledge to yourself. Had I no right to share his griefs and halve his sorrows? Lady S, Ethel, Ethel, be reasonabl^l hov/ could we tell you of his marriage #o that woman? Ethel It's what you should have aone. Bo you think my love for Daryll was a selfish passion and that I only wanted to win and wear my hero? I\^ love is higher and nobler. If I could makel.Daryll happy my own fate was of no moment, not worth an instant's thought. Had I known the truth first he might have been saved, and now what is he, a fugitive, a mur-- Mabel ( Seizing her arm . ) No, no, Ethel don't speak the word; a victim he is, a fugi- tive he may be but a criminal never, Ethel Who said he was a criminal? Even if he did all of which they accuse him, he is no criminal, only a fliost unhappy man, stricken by a cruel fate, bearing the sins of others on his shoulders. Lady S, Now Ethel dear, you must be calm- we must think, Ethel No, this is a time for action. His enemy is not musing ovb over his plansl he is drawing the meshes closer and closer round our Daryll while we sit here and think. Mabel i Lady S. His enemy? Ethel Yes, Sir Percival Pigott- Pigott- Pigott- Pigott, what other enemy has he or can he have? Wiat man has plotted against him for weeks and now I feel that he is gloating over his ruin. Lady S, Mabel, you se^ we are all of one mind, Mabel Ethel, you are right, but what can we do? 16. Ethel If we sit here with folded hands, nothing, Wtiile we sigh- and groan, and weep the enemy works and Daryll will be lost, I'm going to London. Lady S. What can you ao there, Ethel? Ethel What oan I ao here? I can find Daryll; if he is a fugi- tive, warn him of his danger, help him to baffle his enemy. We can show him that loving, trusting hearts are his, that if angels came dovm from Heaven and proclaimed his guilt we would not believe them. ( Crossing to door L. H.) Lady S. You cannot go alone, Ethel, I will accompany you, (Risingi; Ethel Oh thank you. Aunt, Mabel I will ring for the phaeton, papa has taken the carriage, Ethel What, drive twenty miles to London Mabel, whece are your visits, when the toain will take us there in half an hour? come aunt. Lady S, i.aay ;b. Yes child, but you are so impetuous Ethel Aunt, if I did not try to do something for Daryll, I should die here in this sleepy wilderness. (S peaking with great volubilit y , ) As soon as we reach London, we'll take a hansom and drive to Mr, Burbeck's the family solicitor. Lady S. & Mabel Oh yes, Ethel Which ought to have ©een done at first. Then we'll go auntie to your dear old friend Sergeant Bulley the famous criminal barrister and get his advice, then we'll visit every place haunted by Daryll and he told me of several that you know nothing of- and find our hero, comfort him in his affliction or help him in his peril. ( Almost draKSing I.adv S. to L. H.) Lady S. ( Much bewildere d. ) Yes, dear, but you are so violent Ethel, Ethel I can't help it auntie. ( R unning back and embracing Mabe l. ) Forgive me dear, for my harsh words. I know you will Aun- tie, for you have been forgiving your Ethel all her life. Come, come, we' 11 show our eneiiiy that the love and faith even of two women are a match for envy, hatred and malice. ( Exeunt Ethel and Lady S. I,. H. . Ethel almost draggi ng Lady S. of f.) Mabel How changed Ethel is. I do hope she may accomplice some- thing, I seem to be the only one who remains idle. But what can I do? I must await Papa's return. And there never a line from Dolly and he was to report to me yesterday morning. ( Enter R. H. JAI4ES the servant, who is trying to con- ceal his laughte r.) James ^^ l^ lady, there's a gentleman outside^wants to see you. ( Taming his face away and grinning .) Mabel A gentleman? Wlio is it? Did he not give his name? James That wasn't necessary, my lady, for it's Mr. Ponsonby; but he do look so queer and acts that changed that I didn't know as-- Mabel What is the matter with Mr. Ponsonby? James Well, my lady, if I might h' offer an opinion I shoula say as he 'ad been h' indulging in the rosy. Mabel The rosy'. James Yes my lady, the cup wot cheers and h' inibratesat the saine time. Mabel That is none of your business, Jarnes, show Mr, Bonsoby in . Jsones Yes, my lady, ( Going R. H> asi de) Show him in, he's a regular 'oly show in himself. ( Exit . ) Mabel Oh, Dolly at last. Surely he has some news. ( Enter J M/iK^ showing in DOI.I.Y R. H. ) James Mr. Punsby, my lady. ( Exit James grinni ng. ) ( Dolly still wears the dress suit and cape overcoa t of previous act; but he has a very dishevelled appear * ance. His high stand up collar is turn ed down. Efi. still wears the black wig and whiskers^ and on his head i s slouch hat with enormous bri m. ) Mabel Oh, Dolly. (About to embrace him^ then startin g back at his appea r- ance. ) Dolly ( In C. ) Oh, Mabel, Mabel Oh Dolly, what James said must be true, Dolly And what did James remark? Mabel He said you had been indulging in the rosy, Dolly Rosyl Rosyl Ah, you mean alohholic beverages, Mabel? Mabel y-y-es, Dolly, Dolly I have simply been wallowing in them, Mabel, I have, duri. ng the last forty hours, consumed enough London and Holland gin, Irish and Scotch whiskey, French brandy and malt li- quors to float my steam yacht comfortably. Mabel Oh then, Dolly, you must be in - in --»-- Dolly Intoxicated Mabel? By no means, I am of the firm opin- ion that when engaged in amateur detective work I could drink the contents of a bonded warehouse without turning a hair. Mabel But you look so strange, Dolly, Dolly I should be very much surprised if I did not, I saw my reflection in the mirror a moment ago and nearly asked my- self who the deuce I was. Mabel, it is novif nearly noon and as you see, I am still in evening dress, Mabel yes, Dolly, that's what I don't understand, Dolly Then learn, Mabel, that for forty hours this dress suit and the garments it conceals have not left my person. Mabel Why not, Dolly' Dolly Becuase Mabel, I have been on the track, Mabel The track? Oh yes, I understand, But that wig Dolly and oh those dreadful whiskers. Dolly Mabel you must not attempt to separate thi^gg^ig and thcis" whiskers ( takinR off beard and wig ) is blonde and would not 10. harmonize with black whiskers. Mabel T hen why not take off the whiskers? Dolly Why not indeedl Mabel, when two days ago you sent me forth on my career as an amateur detective you told me to get "made up. " Mabel Oh yes. Dolly I did, I went to a theatrical person in the strand and bought this disguise. I told him to attache the whiskers to my face so that they would not readily come off. Mabel That was right. Dolly in principle yes; but the theatrical person acted with an excess of ?eal and I believe fastened these whiskers to my face with shellac always supposing no more tenacious sub- stance exists. For thirty hours I have struggled with these hairs. I have tried persuasion end sv/eet oil, pro- fanity and violence and I am convinced that only a surgical operation which involves the removal of large slices of my cheeks will eradicate these whiskers. Mabel Oh Dolly, that will never ao. Dolly I am afraid it will for my personal beauty, Mabel But, oh Dolly, where did you get that hat? Dolly In Whitechapel while on the track. I bought it from a second hand J ew, I mean a Jew who sells second hand wearing apparel. He told me that it once belonged to Buffalo Joseph the King of the cow-boys who had scoured the plains with it for years considering which circiimstance I think it 11. is in a state of excellent preservation, Mabel But it is so ontre. Dolly All the better Mabel. it is exceedingly comfortable and in my present voaation remarkably useful as observe ^ t'Urning brim of ha.t down and striving mf»1 nHr».in«.ti f> flt.t.it.iine.1 I do not believe my respected parents would recognize me now. Mabel I don't think they would Dolly, now what have you done? Dolly I have been on the track of three persons, Mabel, of Daryll of a mariner with a pulmonary complaint which he calls con- sumption and 01 that woman, Mabel (Almost screaminR .) That woman? than you don't know the terrible news, you have not read the newspapers. Dolly What news? Mabel That womaii is dead, murdered it is believed, her body was found on the roof of the studio. Dolly What, Oh no, yes, oh my, Mabel let me get my breath, (Falling into chai r.) Mabel What is it Dolly? Dolly Oh, I thougth it was Daryll who had been murdered, I did not know how to tell you my fears, that's why - why- ( breaking dowp l - I was so - so frivolous Mabel, 12. Mabel No Dolly, not Daryll but the woman they accuse my brother of murdering her and --- Dolly ( Jumping to his feet .) But he is innocent and I know the murderer. Mabel Daryll, innocent? Dolly The sailor did it Mabel, I met him in Dnury Lane and found that he was searching for this woman Madge, I sent him off to 5?oho. When he returned, he was terribly agita- ted and I found blood stains on his hands and clothes. I tried to detain him, but he got away leaving a military overcoat in my hands which bore Daryll' s name. Mabel Ah, no# I see why you feared for Daryll, Dolly 1 drove to Bsho and there met Pigott and a police officer, we broke in the door of the studio, not a soul was in it, but on the table v/as a blood stained easel knife, Pigott declared that Daryll had murdered Madge and made away with the body, I believed Daryll to be the victim. Mabel yes, yes, I understand Dolly, Dolly I left the coat with the officer and pursued the sailor again, I traced him to Millwall near the Doeksand there learned that he was Madge' s husband. Mabel Ah. Dolly He had only returned that day from sea, found his home bro. ken up and his little child dead so you see he had no good will tow ards the woman, Mabel Of course not. 13. Dolly I still pursued him until I traced him to within a few miles of the place, Mabel This place, impossible, Dolly Oh no, truth is stranger than fiction. Bill Standish, the sailor, you know, was born in Woking, five miles from here and he told the people in Millwall that as his aays were numbered he was going home to die. Now I must be off, Mabel won't you stop and have some luncheon? Dolly No time, Mabel, I have to meet my assistant. Mabel A real detective? Dolly No, a boy , a precocious little Arab whom Daryll befriended. He is invaluable to me. Now good bye for th<^ present, Mabel. I'll return, I feel it, and bring peace to all your aching hearts, fRuns off R. H. ) I am sure y©u will, D»lly is «ur guardian angel after all. Poor fellow, haw he must have suffered comsuming all that horrid drink, but he has such a kind heart, he woula do anything to help us in our trouble. What news this v/ill be for Papa and Ethel and Auntie. ( Ringing bel l.) But why does Daryll make no sign, Th-nter .TAT/P.R R, H.^ Jaines, has his lordship returned? James Not yet, my lady. Mabel Let me knov/ the instant he arrives. That will do. James Yes, my lady. ( Going but stopping at go or .) What time will you have luncheon served, my lady? Mabel Not till his lordship returns, Jarnes, 14. James Yes, my lady. (Exit R.H.. ) Mabel To think my Dolly has done such wonders, and I used to be- lieve he was only kind and amiable. He's quite a genius in his way. Daryll ought to write to us; but oh, if Dolly's first impression should be correct and my brother killed or wounded - but no, that can't be; he has seen the papers and is concealing himself or else has left the country. (The curtains over bay windtgw R.C. shake) What's that? Oh, how nervous I am. The window must have been left open. (Goes up stage and throws open curtain discovering Daryll. He is deadly pale, dressed in rough travelling suit, ulster overcoat. Mabel starts back, then re- covers herself and is about to embrace him. ) Mabel Oh, Daryll, at last'. Daryll Do not touch me, Mabel. Mabel. ■jQh, brother! Daryll Brother! Once I thought I was your brother, but that was a dream. I can be brother to no pure woman, son to no honest man . Mabel Daryll! (Getting close to him) Daryll Keep away from me, Mabel; there is blood on my hands. My touch would stain you. Mabel There is no blood on your hands. You did not do it. It was the other, the sailor, the husband. Daryll V.'hat wild talk is this? i¥;^4;»YT 15. Mabel Dolly knows all about it. He has been investigating the matter; he just now told me of the result. Daryll Kind, simple Dolly, Mabel, I am guilty before Heaven and mem, guilty in word and act. I am an assassin and a coward' ly one too; for I killed a helpless woman, I would have surrendered myself and borne the punishment of my crime but for you and my father, and - and the rest. A Harcourt should not die on the scaffold. Mabel But brother, can there be - is there no mistake? Daryll Mistake? Only the mistake of my existence - We quarrelled; she goaded me to fury. I threatened her life and took up the easel knife to kill her. She escaped to the roof; I pursued her and there did my bloody work. Mistake? Oh, Godl Mabel, when murder's in the heart, the willing hands make no mistake . Mabel ( Trying to restrain her tears) Poor, dear Dolly has deceived himself. Oh, how cruel [ Daryll I shall be out of the country in a few hours . I take the train at the park gates in ten minutes . Mabel Where do you go, Daryll? Daryll You must not know, Mabel. The police may question you and you must speak the truth. But I could not leave England without seeing the old place again. What happy hours I have spent aiiiong these books . (Moves to table L.H. and ricks up alb^jm, opens it and tears picture out of it: kisses picture and places it^ in breast pockeTT Ethell Ethel L ( Gets in front of Lord Sedburv's portrait) Father! Father'. (Drops on knees) (I) I could face my judges and stand calm at the awful moment of expiation. Put to look in your eyes and remember what I am » what shame I have brought to you, how I have blighted your young life is more than even my crime-stained soul can bear. Mabel, we meet and part for the last time in this world - in another - I dare not-- Mabel ( Clinynf? to hlm ^ Daryll, do not speak the word- we shall meet again, brother, Daryll (Kissing her o^ forehea d) There, Mabel, your spotless purity is sullied for the last time- (Moving to window and trying to release himsel f) Good bye- good bye-- forgive- good bye- Oh, Isabel, My sisterl ( Rushes out through window .) 16. Surely nature has made some mistake. I cannot be your son Heaven could not be so unjust, so cruel as to curse you with such a monster as I. Oh, gentle soul, noble heart j farewell, farewell, farewell forever. (Rising to feet and going slowly to bay window) Mabel Daryll, Daryll, have you forgotten your sister? Daryll (Holding curtains in hands ) I dare not trust myself to speak. to you, Mabel. (Mabel runs up to him and bu ries her face in his breast . ), ' ' '■ My angel sisterj your spotless purity is sullied for the last time. One kiss, Mabel. (Kissing her on forehead ) Only one. -= — ►-- ( Rushes out through bay window ) Mabel brother ( ThrowinR herself on sofa>) -.Oh, Daryll, Daryll, my poor I shall never see him again. Guilty - guilty he said; but it was in frenzy - the curse that was on him. But I must be calm. I must keep the secret of his visit to myself. ( Rising and wipin g her eyes) I hear papa's voice. He above ail must not know. ( Enter Lord Sedbury L.H.) Lord ?L (Speaking very nervously) I met the home secretary, Mabel, in the parkp'es, I've met the home secretary. We will have no mors trials by news- papers and secret enemies . He has ordered a thorough investigation by experts from Scotland Yard - yes, Mabel, by experts. We do not fear the result, do we, Mabel? We know our Daryll is innocent. But come child to luncheon, am quite faint and you must be so too. ( Going R.H. ) Mabel Yes, papa, in one minute. (Aside) James is talking with some stranger. How my heart beats. Lord -L- Only a few days more of trial and everything will be put right - yes, everything. (Exit R.H.) /N 17. Mabel Poor papa has aged terribly in the last few days. (Enter Pigott and officer now in privat f drpgc: r. h ,. He carries military overcoat) Piggott Lady Mabel J- I thought it my duty before seeing your father to assure you — Mabel yQ^ Your duty, Sir Kercival, seems toiead/.^to seek the ruin of this family. I Pigott Lady Mabel, I owe a duty to society and however painful, I must perform it. This is a detective from Scotland Yard. Mabel ( With half scream) He comes to arrest my brother. Officer Well, not exactly, ray lady. At least not here; this is the last place to look fir him. But we have to ask his lordship some questions. Pigott And I thought it might be necessary to prepare him. (Snter James R.H.) James His lordship wishes you to wait in his study. Pigott I again express my regrets, Lady Mabel. (Exeunt Pigott. officer and James) Mabel Daryll should be on the train by this time and speeding towards safety. ( Enter Daryll hastily through window) Mabel ( Gives scream) Daryll, why are you back? The police are here . It is better so. To live would be greater torture Lnan dea in any form. I was a cowara Mabel, to attempt flight. LI. TVhat manhood is left in me is asserting itself now. Break it to my father as you can but yo\i nust r/Ot shdke my purpose. ( v'.i t.^ .?r ea t r al mne s s , ) i\nd I thank you Sir Percival, you have saved rie time and trcvbl :-. I returried here from sa.fety to surrender myself to justice. Pigott Yes, when esccpe was impossiolg, I understand. Daryll I hardly think you do Sir Percival. It is he /ond youi oon- prehension. Officer do your duty. (Holdln.^ out his hands. ) 18. Daryll So much the better. I have come to give iiyself up. (Showing paper) I find an innocent man has been arrested for my crime j a poor artist who resembles me. I must expiate my own guilt Mabel Caryll, this is folly - madness 1 The police are here I tell you - Go, go 1 while you have the chance. ( Trvine to uu sh him to window: fcives loud ^er&nm) Too late', too late', they are coming. (Enter Figott and officer hastily R.H. ) Pigott There is your prisoner, officer. Daryll I have just returned from safety to give myself up. Pigott Yes, when escape was impossible. Officer ( Getting close to him) Very sorry, Captain, but I must do it. (Pulls out handcuffs: Daryll offers his hands) Mabel No, no; you shall not - you dare not, here in this house. Oh, Daryll, why did you return? (Lord Sedbury speaking outside) Lord 1^ . Where are the gentlemen who wish to speak with me? (Enter R.H. starts at seeing him.) Ah, Daryll, you've come back - now all will be made clear. (Attempting to move to Daryll) Officer Very sorry, my lord. ( Interposing ) Lord ^, Sarrry? V/hat do you mean, sir. That is my son. Captain Harcourt . Rut he is mv^pri snnftr — not- P^^Acer Pigott Charged with mTirdcr, Lord Ledbury, Lord L. Prisoner I Murder I Oh I Daryll, riy sonl My son I But he is my prisoner, my fiSf'i?®^ I^g Lord L, (WitiL cry of horror^ Pr i s^p^ J^ ^ ^aKi h^ls a^^o ttt^ muisj^reKof lvtSk|c~ -*- ACT IV- >{c. SCENE 3rd: The Justice Room in Harcourt Discovered : Castle . Doors in flat L. &. R. at C. and back, table . dej ;k and hi{ ^h chair for Justice f5o servants. Clerk at table al; villag ers &c . down L.H, . Pigott and officer. Officer Sir Percival, I did wish to be a detective for years, but if I had known the dirty work it would bring rae , I'd rather have been a crossing sweeper, Pigott Pshaw 1 you're too sensitive for your trade. Officer Perhaps so, sir; butmaking a father try his own son for murder is more than average himanity can stand. My stomach revolts against it, sir; that's hall. Pigott Do your duty, or I'll have you discharged. Officer I shall be glad to part company with you, sir. You're the meanest and most vindictive beast wot I ever heard on even if you are a baronet - there'. Pigott You're a fool; better look after your prisoner than talk insolent rubbish. Officer He's all right; and he did come back to give himself up. The station master will swear to that if necessary. Pigott He 's another fool . (They retire to L.H. Enier Ethel and Lady S. (R.H.) ?.4. Lady S. All our labor wasted, ?Jthel. Ethel Never mind,A6nt, dear. We did our best. Now have fortit- ude, be firm, Aiintie. Remember what an ordeal poor Uncle and Daryll have before them. They must get encouragement from us. I feel so strong now that the crisis has come that I could face death in any shape . (Enter Lord Sedburv door back accompanied bv Mabel) Mabel Oh, papa, have you strength, have you courage for this ordeal? Lord L. ( Taking his sea t) I hope I have strength, Mabel. I know I have courage. Captain Harcourt in this Justice Room will be no more to me than a poacher, a burglar, a highwa^nnan or any other criminal. A Harcourt never shrinks from his duty. Officer, bring in your prisoner. Officer Yes , my lord. Goes to door L.H. and makes sign when Daryll , no longer with handcuffs enters together m th two police- men; he takes his place in the dock ) Lord t. ( Trying to be very firm o^t showing his agitatio n by furabling with papers on his desk) Captain Harcourt, you are charged with the gravest crime on the statute book; that of wilful murder. Having been arres- ted in my house, it is my duty to examine your case, and if necessary commit you for trial. Officer, relate the cir- cumstances of the crime, and your capture of the prisoner. ( Officer is a.bout to get into box ) Clerk Pardon m?, my lord; but you have read the depositions and it would save you great pain if you committed the prisoner for further examination in London where the murder was committed . Lord K But I do not wish to be spared pain. I wish to do my duty Proceed, officer 25. I ask for no mercy and woild accept none. I did kill my 'Afife: The woman known as Madge Bull. I am her murderer. Daryl 1 Spare ug all pain dear friend. Hie real murderer is herel Dolly No! noi Daryll/ fvty Lord youi' son is as innocent as I ami Lord L. I hope: I trust Ivlr. Punsby that you understand Captain Har- court's terrible position and are making no mistake. Dolly None whatever my Lord. ( CouRi) heard outside . ) Bring him in. ( Enter STAND I SH and TQfst.iY . ) Lord L, ^"ho is this man? Bill iv,r.:kr'^p-\y . ) The miiTderer of Madge Bull' ?.5 . DBryll My lord, I wish to spare you, myself and others from pain. I waive examination and plead guilty. Lord 6 . ( Rising in agitation ) No, no, my son - Captain Harcourt, you are not well advised. You must get counsellt mayibemy duty to commit you for trial; but you need not plead here . I shall not permit it. Daryll But I do, my lord. I plead guilty because I committed the crime of which I stand accused. ( Enter Dolly hurriedly from back) Dolly My lord, he must withdraw that plea because he is innocent. Mabel ( Not standing beside Lady S. and Ethel) Dolly', he was right . Dolly (Wi thnnt. wj^iRVprt; nnw) My lord, I not only say that Captain Harcourt is innocent; but I will produce the real murderer. Lord S. I hope this is no delusion, Mr. Punsby, Dolly No, my lord. ( cou^h heard outsi de ) Tommy, bring in Mr. Standish. (Enter Bil l more emaciated than ever and Tommy : thev g ive Bill a chai r) Let me examine him, my Lord.- what is your name? Bill William Standish, able seaman - at least I was. Dolly Did you know the woman Margaret Bull? 26. Bill She was mi' wife. ( Sensation ) Dolly When did you see her last? Bill The night afore last. Dolly Where? Bill At Berekley Buildings, gfeh© • Dolly What took place there? Bill She - I - well I killed her. (Cmi£li) ( Sensation) Dolly In the studio? Bill Well, not exactly. I stabbed her there once with a knife I found on the table; then she ran up the ladder to the roof. I followed her and finished the job there. Lord S. But how then, can Captain Hare our t accuse himself of the crime? Bill Don't know, my lord, unless he was the gent as was asleep in the next room. Perhaps when he woke up he found Madge dead and thought he done it himself. Daryll Can it be? Oh, God '.can it be? 'Is my soul free from crime- are my hands unstained with blood? Lord h . No suspicion pointed to you - why do you now confess to this awful crime? '11 . Bill wen ray lord I don't want an innocent man to suffer for my ^rime. JS^mghl Then, my lord, I a;n a dying man - a few days perhaps a few hours will finish me. I'll never live to be tried and I might as well die in jail as any- whPTf^ sis© ( Is about falling off cha ir when officer catches, him) Lord J*. Carry him to the next room and give him some brandy. Send for the doctor at once. ( They carry Bill out ) lord h. (Coming How n and embracing h im) ^ ^+. Dary n?n.y [oy, innocent, .nno le^tl O*" «"^^"> """^ ">' '''^*' swells with gratitude. Innocent- my boyi Daryll Indeed yes, father; but in thought - Ethel Innocent in everything, Daryll. n«nv^ . An thP wnmen p^v^racp him, th^n Mfr bgl t^i'^ffes Dolly) . Mabel Oh, Dolly'. Dolly Oh. Mabel. ^ ^ ^ (B us, of introducing Tommy to he r) Pigott ( To officer) I'm for town. Are you going? Officer Yes Sir Pereival; but not in your company. ( Exit PJRott ) Lord L . Daryll, you said you would conquer; this trial, these sufferings have been expiation for the past. Daryll ( With Ethe] in his arms) .n. + o^?, Md the future has no terrors for me now. I have a sister , faith - a father's ae^^otioIl, and (Kispaqg Ethel) a love that endureth. . T-ft-/ ■"■^- HK2 41- -a