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 IKagdalene of Trance 
 
 Hit llistorical Drama 
 
 (lllustrattd) 
 
 Ernest l^ugb Fitz^atrfcli 
 
Copyright according to Act of Congress, 
 
 by Ernest Hugh Fitzpatrick, 
 
 1907. 
 
 (English Rights Applied For) 
 
Yours Very Sincerely 
 
 Ernest Hugh Fit zpat rick 
 
MAGDALENE OF FRANCE 
 
 AN HISTORICAL DRAMA 
 IN FOUR ACTS. 
 
 (ILLUSTRATED) 
 
 BY 
 
 ERNEST HUGH FITZPATRIGK, l. R. G. P., ED. 
 
 (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED) 
 
 PUBLISHED BY 
 
 THE SENTINEL PUBLISHING COMPANY, 
 
 PONTIAC, ILLINOIS 
 
 1907 
 
' LIBRARY ot CONGiiE^ 
 Two Copies Rec3iy*j 
 
 DEC 31 1907 
 
 
 x 
 
 CLASS 1> XXcAu.j \ X «\^-.0 
 
 COPY B. 
 
 SYNOPSIS AND REVIEW OF THE DRAMA. 
 
 By the Sentinel Publishing Company. 
 
 The scenes of the play are laid in Scotland and France, 
 and the story is drawn from the romantic incidents that sur- 
 rounded the marriage of James the Fifth of Scotland and the 
 Princess Magdalene, or Madeleine, the youngest daughter of 
 Francis I, K=ng of France. The young king of Scotland was 
 very much wanted by Henry the Eighth of England for hus- 
 band to his daughter Mary, Henry's design being to ultimately 
 unite the two kingdoms of England and Scotland. He was 
 therefore much chagrined when King James married into the 
 royal house of France. The conduct of James to the Princess 
 Mary de Vendome cannot be defended on any grounds. On 
 King Francis representing to him the delicate state of Magda- 
 lene's health, he expressed his willingness to forego his claim 
 upon the hand of Magdalene, and plighted his troth to Mary 
 de Vendom.e on recommendation of Francis. The play en- 
 deavors to- follow him during h's sojourn in France, his visit 
 to the Chateau of Lorraine in disguise, his visit to Francis' 
 court, his repudiation of Mary de Lorraine and his subsequent 
 marriage to Magdalene in January, 1537. On Magdalene's pre- 
 mature death in June, 1537, in Scotland, he afterwards wedded 
 Mary of Lorraine, the Dowager Duchess of Longueville. 
 By Mary of Lorraine he had a daughter, the unfortunate 
 Mary Queen of Scots, who was but a few days old 
 when Kmg James died. On James hearing of the birth 
 of the Princess aiary, he gave expression to the now famous 
 saying, "We came in with a lass and we go out with a lass." 
 The dramat'st for artistic purposes has taken the dual char- 
 acters of Mary de Vendome and Mary de Lorraine and moulded 
 then into the single character of 'Mary de Lorraine, a strikingly 
 picturesque one. The story ia ihus intensified and the character 
 of Mary de Lorraine is given a continuity of interest which 
 otherwise it could not possibly possess. 
 
 The Lord Murray mentioned in the play must not be 
 confused with James Stewart, the second Earl of Murray, the 
 chief adviPor of Mary Queen of Scots. This Murray was created 
 Earl Murray in 15G2, James V of Scotland was born in 1512 
 
and died in 1542 at Falkland after his army had been routed 
 by the English at Solway Moss on November 25, 1542, at the 
 early age of thirty. One of the most stirring climaxes of the drama 
 comes at the last scene of Act III, Mary de Lorraine bein^ 
 discarded by James the Fifth, enters a convent. Queen Magda- 
 lene, her successful rival, goes to see her and pleads with Mary 
 not to take the veil as she (Magdalene) feels that she has 
 not long to live and that King James had pledged himself to 
 marry Mary de Lorraine when she (Magdalene) died. The 
 beauty of the lines in this scene and the play of words in 
 portraying character and depicting emotion at once excite our 
 admiration and enlist our sympathies. This scene rests like 
 a peerless gem in a beautiful and chaste setting. The 4th, or 
 last act, in its two scenes is thrillingly dramatic, ending in 
 powerful climaxes leading up to the death of James the Fifth, 
 the preservation from death of the infant Mary Queen of 
 Scots, and the proclamation of the infant as queen of Scotland 
 by the command of King Henry VIIL The story in the ma'n 
 is true to history, the author taking only such liberties usually 
 conceded to dramatists to round out the drama of their stories. 
 The interest is kept up from start to finish and intensifies as 
 the story proceeds. The story is told in beautiful language, 
 the climaxes are powerful and heart stirring and constructed 
 with rare ability. Competent critics declare the drama of a 
 very high order of merit. We present the play to the publ'c 
 with every confidence that it will readily meet with the success 
 that we feel it richly deserves. 
 
MADGALENE OF FRANCE 
 
 AN HISTORICAL PLAY IN FOUR ACTS 
 
 CHARACTERS REPRESENTED. 
 
 King James V of Scotland. The Princess Mary de Lorraine. 
 
 Lord Lion Lady Ellenor, lady-in-waiting upon 
 
 Mary. 
 The Bishop of St. Andrews. 
 
 Ihe attendants upon the Duke de 
 
 The Earl of Murray. Lorraine. 
 
 Sir James Hamilton, special attend- Quests at the fete at the Chateau de 
 
 ant upon King James. Lorraine. 
 
 The Duke of Albany and his attend- Knights, Country Gentry, Farmers, 
 
 ants. Etc. 
 
 Lord Howard and his attendants. Courtiers of the Court of King James. 
 
 King Francis I of France. Elderly Nuns (two) attendants upon 
 
 „ . T,T 1 1 .^^c+ Lady Mary de Lorraine. 
 The Princess Magdalene, younge?-t 
 
 daughter of King Francis. H'ghland Soldiers of King James. 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray. Attendants upon Court of King James. 
 
 Guards in attendance upon King 'i^e infant Princess, "Marv Queen of 
 
 Francis. Scots." 
 
 Watchmen of Paris. English Soldiers. 
 
 The Duke de Lorraine. j.ord Howard's messenger. 
 
Miss Agnes Lannon, who appeared in the role of 
 "Magdalene of France." 
 
— 7— 
 ACT I, 
 
 SCENE I. — Throne Boom in Holijrood Falace, Edinburgh. 
 Present: King James V of Scotland on his throne; the 
 Bishop of St. Andreivs, the Earl of Murmy, Lord Lion 
 and Esquires, and Sir James Hamilton, Special Attendant 
 upon his Majesty, Etc., Etc. 
 
 King James — 
 
 8ir James, prithee cease that music, 
 
 For I am somewhat disturbed today ard proT<e to iriitation. 
 
 (*8'«r James thereupon raises his hand and the music ceases.) 
 
 My Lord Lion, hast thou heard aught from France ? 
 
 Or of my worthy uncle too, of England^ 
 
 What hath he to propound ? 
 
 Lord Howard will be here anon — 
 
 At least I have been thus informed. 
 
 Henry the Eighth of England, brother of our mother. 
 
 Hast wrought naught but desolation upon his fair realms. 
 
 What wishes he with me, I cannot tell, 
 
 But James of Scotland will be enticed by him 
 
 Into no wrong dealings. What hour is it ? 
 
 Lord Lion — 
 
 Just half the hour of noon. Your Majesty, 
 
 And none too soon indeed, for Scotland's King 
 
 To proclaim to the loyal subjects of his realm. 
 
 That he will lend himself to none of the foul machinations 
 
 Of England's King, who hath already 
 
 Wed thrice one fair maid, and thus 
 
 Hath set at naught the laws of God anfl man. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Truly and well said, my Lord Lion; 
 
 The earth's greatest potentates 
 
 Cannot make of me a sapling ash 
 
 To bend the way their wills direct; 
 
 Not Henry the Eighth, my relative, nor yet a hundred 
 
 Henries 
 Can make me forget my promptings as a man and King, i 
 
But here comes my Lord Murray and with him 
 I do see Lord Howard. A mission, I take it, 
 From our Sire of England. 
 
 Welcome Lord Howard. What news thy tidings bring ? 
 Is it well with Henry, thy liege and lawful King? 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 'Tis well, my Lord, with my august sire. 
 
 I crave thy patience that I may lay 
 
 At thy royal feet these fair tokens 
 
 Of my master's regard for thee. 
 
 {He lays the gifts at King James' feet.) 
 
 His Majesty, the King of England, 
 
 Did command of me 
 
 To carry to your Majesty's ears 
 
 A proposition of state: — 
 
 He bade me offer to Scotland's King, 
 
 The hand of his fair daughter. 
 
 The Princess Mary of Tudor, 
 
 So that these contiguous realms 
 
 May live in peace and brotherly concord. 
 
 King James — 
 
 'Tis well, my Lord Howard, 
 
 Your tidings are to me most welcome. 
 
 All these signs of King Henry's favor. 
 
 These goodly gifts {points to the gifts at his feet) 
 
 So liberally bestowed. 
 
 Have awakened in my breast sweet remembrances 
 
 Of my lord, your King. But pray thee, rest awhile 
 
 And some refreshment seek, 
 
 And let me take council a while 
 
 Vv^ith these, the pillars of my realm. 
 
 {He points to those around him.) 
 
 My Lord Murray, do your very best 
 
 To make Lord Howard's sojourn a credit to your King. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Come, my Lord Howard, come with me. 
 
—9— 
 
 I will point you where thou couldst 
 
 Refresh and rest awhile. {Exit Lords Howard and Murray.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 My Lords, you did hear 
 
 What the Lord Howard hath remarked. 
 
 We must be circumspect in our reply 
 
 And avoid offense to England's pompous king; 
 
 Magdalene of France is Scotland's future queen, 
 
 On that rest assured ; my heart on her is fixed, 
 
 And no King Henry of England can aught of my resolve 
 
 undo. 
 ]^ow who have we here ? My Lord of Albany, from France, 
 
 I swear! 
 (The Lord Chamberlain approaches with Lord Albany.) 
 Welcome back, Lord Albany, welcome back from France 
 To these our shores and crags of the Bonnie land of Scots. 
 Thou dost bring message from my lord, the King of France ? 
 Prithee tell me what he hath to say. 
 I have been impatient these many days to hear 
 Somewhat of his doings and news of our fair Magdalene, 
 
 The Duhe of Albany — 
 
 His Majesty of France has plnced h^ my hands this epistle, 
 Which to Your Majesty I was to deliver 
 And deign an answer. 
 
 Which I was to bear, with no loss of time. 
 Back to France, for Francis is impatient 
 To learn your Majesty's will and pleasure. 
 {Lord Albany bending on one knee, hands King James i 
 letter, who breaks the sml and reads it to himself.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Pray, noble Albany, may I be so bold to ask 
 
 That I may read aloud to the=? ntt:^ndants. 
 
 Upon my court and my wise counselors -, 
 
 This epistle which you have brought ? ' \ 
 
 Duhe of Albany — - - 
 
 Your Majesty's pleasure is my own. 
 
—10— 
 
 King James — 
 
 Listen, mv counselors, wise and just, 
 "What my King of France, Francis, doth say to rae. 
 I nuist confess that I am somewhat disturbed 
 By the sad news. 
 
 Magdalene, upon whom my affection hath been placed, 
 Is ailing, and none too strong 
 To brave the blasts of our northern shores. 
 Francis offers me instead the hand of Mary of Lorraine, 
 However, my Lord Lion, do but read the letter 
 To our counselors, that I might take their opinion. 
 (Lord Lion takes the letter from the King and reads it 
 aloud.) 
 
 "The Princess Magdalene is unhappily not in a state of 
 health to be removed from her native air to a cold climate like 
 Scotland, and as her physician doubts whether she unll ever be 
 well enough to fidfill her engagement to Your Majesty, I beg 
 that all thoughts of her be relinquished as only likely to lead 
 to delay and end in dis^ippointment ; at the same time I recom- 
 mend Your Majesty to transfer his addresses to Lady Mary of 
 Lorraine, the eldest daughter of the Duke of Lorraine, the first 
 prince of the royal blood in France." 
 King James — 
 
 My lords and noble friends. 
 
 This news to us is sad indeed. 
 
 Fair Magdalene to me myself 
 
 Hath been the pilot of a loving heart, 
 
 Unto the shores of barrenness, 
 
 But Scotland's king will no duty shirk 
 
 To circumvent the pressure of his uncle's will ; 
 
 For Scotland's ill is bound with Henry's child as Scot- 
 land's queen. 
 
 My Lord Albany, to you we make promise 
 
 To abide by what my lord, the King of France, 
 
 Francis the First, of noble mien, doth suggest. 
 
 To Mary of Lorraine, we will protest 
 
 Our sincere desire that our union will 
 
4 
 
 ^1 
 
 ! 
 
 fl 
 
 ^%;i.§ : 
 
 Mm 
 
 ^^^B ^^K 
 
 Mr. E. A. Simmons, as "James V" of Scotland. 
 
—11— 
 
 To France and Scotland bring peace and joy. 
 
 What say you, my lords, shall we accept 
 
 The proffered goods by Lorraine sent, 
 
 And thus our troth will plight? 
 
 The Lord Howard we will answer give 
 
 That Francis of France hath a prior claim 
 
 Upon Scotland's King, and who, if these matters fail, 
 
 Will turn his eyes toward England's realm; 
 
 But we must now with all due courtesy and due grace 
 
 Decline the offered hand of Mary of Tudor. 
 
 Lord Lion — 
 
 If I may speak (looks around him) as the mouth piece of 
 
 Thy Majesty's counsellors, 
 I will declare for them, and for the people of your realm 
 That we concur in Your Majesty's decision. 
 Mary of Lorraine is both beautiful and great, 
 And will, I trow, to Scotland lend her race, 
 Co-mingled with your own. 
 To balance and embrace for years to come, 
 And will thus prevent England's nefarious king 
 From placing any bastard child on Scottish throne. 
 
 {Enter Lord and Lady Murray and Lord Howard unobserved.^ 
 
 Duke of Albany — 
 
 I commend your Majesty's wise decision, 
 And now will pour at your Majesty's feet 
 
 The treasures that Lorraine hath sent 
 To bind the compact. 
 (He places at the King's feet the dowry sent by the Dule of 
 Lorraine, talcing the treasure from several attendants who 
 had entered the room with heavy sacks on their shoulders.) 
 Your Majesty, here are ten times ten thousand cro\\Ti3 in 
 gold. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Your Majesty, my Liege Lord, may I be so bold as to in- 
 terject a sentence. 
 
—12— 
 
 King James — 
 
 Speak on good Murray. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Your Majesty should consider Howard's proposition. 
 
 The Lady Mary Tudor is great in qualities that maketh for 
 
 a Queen. 
 These two realms torn by war in past years, 
 Seepeth at their very pores with blood. 
 Good many a Scot hath gone down before the English 
 
 archers, 
 And is Scotland destined to bleed again? 
 The duty of the King if not to protect his subjects 
 Wherein does such duty lie ? 
 
 And if, by so seemly a marriage, the good King James 
 Could bring to an end forever 
 These devastating wars. 
 
 He will give to his loyal subjects peace and prosperity ; 
 Our castles are cast down. 
 Our halls and cottages demolished 
 By the barbaric English soldiery. 
 Our fields are destroyed, our yoemanry starving. 
 Therefore, I pray thee, good King James, 
 Listen patiently to Howard's proposals. 
 Bring not down upon benighted Scotland 
 The wrath of King Henry VIII of England, 
 I pray thee most noble king. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Tut, Tut, good Murray, 
 Thou hast thy picture overdrawn, 
 
 Scotland still has many a knight and many a yoeman, 
 Who is willing to bleed for their soverign prince. 
 Our worthy sire, Sir Robert Bruce, spake not thus, 
 Bannockburn has marked the end of England's rule 
 Over these lands of freedom loving Scots, 
 No English King will ever be bold enough. 
 To attempt p.gain the subjugation of our realm. 
 
—13— 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 My liege King, a word from her 
 
 Who represents the women of this land: — 
 
 Shall no mother, wife, sister or daughter 
 
 Of bold knight and yoeman 
 
 Plead with our good King James, 
 
 To give them a few years of security and peace? 
 
 Think, my liege Lord, of all the sacrifices 
 
 That these good women have made, 
 
 For thee and for thine house. 
 
 Fathers, brothers, husbands and sons 
 
 Slain by the very thousands. 
 
 Hundreds of corpses left mutilated on a hundred fields, 
 
 Begging even the covering of the earth, 
 
 To be the food for vultures, foul carrion birds. 
 
 Even they hath higher charity in the sight of Heaven, 
 
 Do they not feed upon the unfeeling dead ? 
 
 While the ambitions of Kings and Princes 
 
 Feed upon the living! 
 
 And taketh the very food 
 
 That should be given the suckling mouth! 
 
 For the small sacrifice of thyself, 
 
 If sacrifice we can so call it, 
 
 Is to be denied thy children 
 
 This great boon of perpetual peace 
 
 With our southern foes, 
 
 Denied to those, who have so oft 
 
 Given themselves to death for thee, 
 
 We ask not much, my Lord, 
 
 And deny it not I conjure thee, 
 
 If thou wouldst not condemn 
 
 To a bloody death upon the field 
 
 More of these men that we have nurtured 
 
 From within ourselves. 
 
 Condemn them not to battle and to murder. 
 
 Shouldst this opportunity to cement with England 
 
 This alliance be cast off, 
 
—14— 
 
 Harken to this prediction, beloved King, 
 Thou thyself art destined to fall a prey 
 To England's valient hosts. 
 And to lie upon a field unkno^vn 
 Strewn with a thousand rotting corpses. 
 
 King James — 
 
 It appears to me, my lady, 
 
 You have spoken boldly thus 
 
 To have addressed your sovereign 
 
 In such menacing language. 
 
 Albeit thou hast already suffered much 
 
 And we will overlook this outburst. 
 
 And not forget that thou thyself art English. 
 
 Well do we desire to see an ending 
 
 To these fratricidal and bloody wars, 
 
 And to cease this desolation of our realm, 
 
 We are with you, kind lady, in your desires. 
 
 But w^e cannot thus bring the neck of Scotland 
 
 Under the yoke that England will impose. 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 My liege lord and King, 
 
 Two of my sons that nestled at this bosom 
 
 Hath already been slain in Scotland's behalf. 
 
 Three others have I, and they are at your command, 
 
 For Scotland's honor if meet be. 
 
 But to useless and avoidable slaughter, 
 
 I will not yield them. 
 
 But be it as you wish, my liege lord, 
 
 Let none here ever say. 
 
 That the Lady Murray 
 
 ITath not found courage in her heart 
 
 To speak the words of truth. 
 
 Which craven counselors are afraid to utter, 
 
 Lest they bring upon themselves 
 
 King James' wrath and displeasure. 
 ^^ Let none say, that when our King 
 
 Is mourned with all the flower of Scotland's chivalry, 
 
Miss Nora MacGahan, who appeared in the role of "Lady 
 Geraldyne Murray." 
 
—15— 
 
 That I held my voice because I was English, 
 
 And did not give to my adopted land 
 
 That wisdom I feel that I possess. 
 King James — 
 
 Enough, fair lady, 
 
 Enough of such dire forebodings. 
 
 ]\fethinks you have presumed 
 
 Upon our Royal patience. 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 I go forth, most gracious King, 
 
 May Heaven guide and protect you in all your doings. 
 
 CURTAIN DROPS. 
 
 ACT I — SCENE II. — {May he in the same room. Present: 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray and her cousin Lord Hoivard.) 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 Welcome my cousin, the Noble Lord Howard, 
 Both chivalrous and brave. 
 We have not met since we were children. 
 For long years past I have lived in Scotland, 
 • While you, my lord, hath basked 
 
 In the sunlight of the favor and smiles 
 
 Of the great English King, Henry VIII, 
 
 The marriage that you now propose 
 
 Hath the heartiest support of my Lord Murray and myself. 
 
 It will be a guarantee that these wars will end. 
 
 Wars that have desolated both England and Scotland! 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 Twice pleased am I indeed to see you, Fair Geraldyne, 
 
 Also to learn of the support that you have given 
 
 The marriage of King James 
 
 To the Princess ^[ary of Tudor, 
 
 It was my intent, however, to ask the support 
 
 Of yourself and the good Lord Murray, 
 
 But from your pleadings with King James, 
 
 It appears, I need not be a suppliant. 
 
—16— 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 What you did hear, my Lord, 
 
 Are tlie promptings of wisdom, 
 
 Between the Princess Magdalene, 
 
 And the Princess Mary; 
 
 I have no choice. 
 
 But my choice lies, indeed, 
 
 Between England so near, and France so far; 
 
 From France, we have no fear of evil. 
 
 By England, we are constantly menaced. 
 
 Therefore, I favor the alliance with England. 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 Wisely spoken. Fair Geraldyne, 
 If aught you can ask of Howard 
 That he can with honor give, 
 You have but to name you wish. 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 But one request I ask, my lord. 
 
 Should Lord Murray and myself 
 
 Do our best to circumvent this French marriage, 
 
 Promise to give me in future 
 
 Timely warning of any descent 
 
 That King Henry might propose 
 
 To make upon this stricken land. 
 
 And to council against such attempt: — 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 "Wirh great gladness do I grant that favor, 
 
 For you must learn. Fair Greraldyne, 
 
 That shonldst I fail to thwart King James, 
 
 My head shall pay the forfeit upon the block, 
 
 This marriage must not take place 
 
 If I can do aught to prevent it. 
 
 Your bold language to King James 
 
 Should surely awaken within his heart 
 
 Some forebodings of those evils that may strike 
 
 Scotland, should Henry slighted be, 
 
—17— 
 
 But here comes my Lord Murray, do you 
 
 But take a place along with us, 
 
 Noble Murray, Your fair lady here, 
 
 My worthy kinswoman, and I 
 
 Have been alarmed at Scotland's great danger. 
 
 In the event of King James refusing the hand 
 
 Of the Princess Mary of Tudor. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 There is no one in Scotland 
 More alive to her danger 
 Than Lord Murray, and he is doing 
 His utmost to change the leanings 
 Of his liege King, James the V. 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 I have conveyed to the Lady Geraldyne 
 
 My appreciation of your good work. 
 
 And have promised her 
 
 For so signal a service, 
 
 A slight reward, 
 
 I have pledged myself 
 
 To give her full warning 
 
 Of any design, that Henry may in future plan. 
 
 To descend upon Scotland, 
 
 And to advise against such attempt. 
 
 So cease not thy good efforts, worthy Murray, 
 
 To bring to naught this French marriage. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 For such assurance and promise. 
 
 Pray accept the thanks of one, 
 
 Who has oft bled for Scotland's weal, 
 
 And who now sorrows at her desolated state. 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 Be not in haste to thank me, my Lord, 
 For should James marry into the Royal house of England, 
 There will be little occasion for a descent upon this land, 
 For all hostile intent will forever be set aside. 
 
—18— 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Let us trust it will be so my lord, 
 
 The King doth call mj name, 
 
 I must hasten to see what may be his pleasure 
 
 Farewell for awhile, we will confer later upon these things. 
 
 {King James enters ivith his entourage. Exit Lords Uoward 
 and Murray and Lady Murray.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 My Lord Albany, I would wish to make 
 
 One fair proposition. 
 
 To which kindly give your heed. 
 
 In a desire to see the fair Mary of Lorraine 
 
 I will betake me unknown to her. 
 
 Into her presence and see what fate 
 
 Hath in store for nie, and this my kingdom as her queen. 
 
 Tomorrow, after I have bid farewell to Howard, 
 
 And given message back to England's King, 
 
 Sir James will with me prepare 
 
 Such arrangement, as the case demands. 
 
 For visit to France, so keep thy council. 
 
 I will give further instructions to my Lord Murray 
 
 To meet me in Paris. 
 
 But now let us proceed to good cheer, 
 
 (At this juncture the pages hand around glasses, all drinh to the 
 health and success of King James, accompanied with some 
 suitable song.) 
 
 CUETAm DROPS. 
 
Mr, A. B. MacGahan, who appeared in the role of 
 "Lord Howard." 
 
ACT II. 
 
 SCENE I. — Ante chamher in the pal- ■ of Francis I, King of 
 Fi-ancc. The Boyal Guard, armeo ith drawn sword, mar- 
 ches up and down the chamher. .'rter Magdalene^ af tired 
 in a morning gown. 
 
 Magdalene {to guard.) 
 
 Is my royal father within ? 
 I wish to speak to him. 
 
 Guard — 
 
 Your Eoyal Highness, I did but t'tis moment hear 
 
 The king stir himself aronnd. 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Convey to him from me a message, 
 That the Princess Magdalene 
 Doth await here his pleasure, 
 {Guard enters the royal chamher to coavey tUe message, he 
 presently returns.) 
 
 Guard — 
 
 The king, my royal master, will bo here anon. 
 
 {King Francis I enters in a short whi!^.. .Magdalene drops on 
 orne Jcnee and Icisses him in salutation.) 
 
 Francis I. — 
 
 Why, my child, why so enrly a cpil ? LooJcing intently at 
 Magdalene and seeing her distressed.) 
 What hath disturbed my little princess ? 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Sire, I would speak with thee alone. 
 {Francis ^notions to the guard to tuithdrair. who forthwith salutes 
 
 and does so.) 
 
 Francis — 
 
 Fair Magdalene, wdiat aro thy 1- ' 'sts? (He places hiii 
 
 hand upon her head and looks ' n on her. MagdaJi^n 
 
 takes both her father's li-vds in ' ) 
 
—22— 
 
 Magdalene (Loohing up through her tears and smiling) — 
 Thank you, my King; that? you, father. 
 You restore in me all the cheerfulness of spring. 
 Pardon my haste in repairing to you thus, 
 But a lover's heart in distress is impatient always. 
 Adieu my father, thanks a thousand times again, 
 You have made the heart of your Princess Magdalene 
 A hundred times happier than before. (The hing accom- 
 panies Magdalene to the door, his arm encircling her.) 
 Adieu my father, tulieu. {Magdalene retires.) 
 
 Francis — ( To him se If. ) 
 
 Ah how my heart aches. 
 
 So fragile a flower to send to Scotland's dreary clime. 
 
 But her mind, I perceive, is firmly set 
 
 Upon Scotland's kiiig and coronet. 
 
 So be it. Perhaps I may falter still. (A long pause after 
 
 this; he drops his head upon his hand.) 
 Away with the recreant thought; 
 The physicians may, after all, be wrong; 
 I am told that they are often so. 
 
 Magdalene may live for years to come as Scotland's queen, 
 But yet ! But yet ! I feel great misgiving, great misgiving ! 
 Retires slowly, very troubled in mind, with his hand to his 
 
 forehead. ) 
 
 CURTAIN DROPS. 
 
 SCENE II. — Eoom in Paris. (James V of Scotland, disguised as 
 a valet to Sir Jamrs Hamilton, enroute to the chateau of 
 the DuJi-e of Lorraine.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Well, Sir James, here we are at last in Paris. 
 
 The seas are crossed, we have had many an escapade. 
 
 And as your valet I have had some amusing experiences. 
 
 Recall how that bold wench at Dunkirk 
 
 Wlien we landed from our boat, 
 
 Showed such affection toward me, 
 
HJ _ 
 
 . 
 
 ';- " ' 
 
 
 -^ 4' 
 
 f 
 
 Mr. L. F. Strawn, as "Francis I," King of France. 
 
—23— 
 
 Thinking I was of her class; 
 
 Calling me a prondish brnte because 
 
 Forsooth! I did disdain her advances. 
 
 Think how nearly I discovered our story 
 
 When I chid the churlishness of those common soldiers there. 
 
 But thanks to your excellency's vigilance and wise endeavor 
 
 We have done nothing to betray our disguise. 
 
 Here we are today in Paris, and tomorrow 
 
 We shall set out for the chateau of the Duke of Lorraine 
 
 Ah ! Then I shall see the fair Mary, our coming Queen of 
 
 Scotland. 
 Have you everything prepared for tomorrow, worthy Sir 
 
 James ? 
 
 Sir James Hamilton — 
 Your majesty forgets 
 That I am the master and you the valet. 
 
 King James — 
 
 True, true. Sir James. 
 
 I must call my floating thoughts to account. 
 
 Tell me how do you take the service of a king ? 
 
 Sir James — 
 
 Not much; your majesty cannot forget your royal station. 
 
 For instance, when I bade your majesty 
 
 Fetch me my horse at the tavern at Dunkirk, 
 
 You called out in so loud and imperious a tone 
 
 That many turned themselves around to see 
 
 Whose voice it was that was so great, 
 
 And beholding a valet had been so impudent to shout, 
 
 Had recommended that you be stripped and striped. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Well ! well ! I must show more care in future. 
 
 Do chide me when I mistake. 
 
 I must be gone to repair to the grand bridge. 
 
 I am told that the Princess Magdalene doth pass there at 
 
 noon. 
 I have not yet set eyes on her 
 
—24— 
 
 Who was to have been Scotland's Queen. 
 When next I see you, I will tell you how your valet 
 Had set eyes upon the Princess Eoyal of France. 
 What hour dost my master wish his valet to present himself 
 again ? 
 
 Sir James Hamilton — 
 
 At your majesty's pleasure. 
 
 King James — 
 
 How now? Am I not your valet? 
 
 Sir James Hamilton — 
 
 'No matter of that, your Majesty, 
 
 When you have set eyes upon the fair Magdalene, 
 
 We will consider what you say; 
 
 Come, I will accompany your Majesty somewhat on the way, 
 
 And see that you do not chastise those 
 
 Who would obstruct your path. 
 
 And on my return will prepare for the morrow. 
 
 (They both leave the room, the King familiarly taking the 
 arm of Sir James.) 
 
 CUETAIN DROPS. 
 
 SCENE III. — (Same room in Paris. Sir James Hamilton 
 awaiting the King's return.) 
 
 Sir James — (Soliloquizing.) 
 
 Well, surely this is an odd experience; 
 
 His Majesty of Scotland, so excellent a King, 
 
 Makes but a sorry valet. 
 
 IsTor can he forget himself. 
 
 It causes me to laugh at his behavior 
 
 When passing in the streets of Paris — Ha ! ha ! ha ! ha ! 
 
 He is not mindful of his valet's garb. 
 
 And that no longer is he King of Scotland. 
 
 Forsooth, when we entered into that shop yestermorn 
 
 To make purchase of a stone for Mary of Lorraine, 
 
 His carriage was so out of keeping with his garb. 
 
 That the shopman was about to call the watchman. 
 
—25— 
 
 I hinted to him that my valet was slightly deranged up 
 here {touches his head.) 
 
 The look of fear and apprehension that the shopman cast 
 Upon his Majesty and his Majesty's rising ire — Ha ! Ha ! 
 
 ha! ha! 
 I will pledge mine oath 
 That I wall not wittingly indulge a king 
 As valet to myself again. 
 
 Hark! (pause) here comes a rush. WTiat may it be? 
 Ah ! Some more of my valet's strange doings, I warrant ! 
 
 (In rushes the King closely followed by several watchmen.) 
 
 Sir James Hamilton (evidently alarmed) — What may be the 
 cause of this, your Maj — 
 
 (Aside.) By my life! I did nearly give myself away. 
 (Then looJcing sternly at the King and the watchmen Sir 
 
 James says:) 
 What may be the cause of this strange behavior? 
 
 A Watchman — 
 
 This impudent rascal here is valet to your excellency, I per- 
 ceive. 
 He has beaten a man so badly, and with so great a blow, 
 That we had to seek a surgeon. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Your excellency, he doth shove against me so hard, 
 And would not desist upon my polite request. 
 But the harder did he shove. 
 That I could restrain myself no longer. 
 
 Sir James — 
 
 That is but a poor excuse. 
 
 No recompense shall you receive for six months to come. 
 
 I will give this good man a hundred livres, your pay for 
 
 such a time, 
 To bestow upon the injured man. (Gives the watchman a 
 
 hundred livres.) 
 And here, my good men, there are fifty livres for your pains. 
 
-26— 
 
 Watchman — 
 
 I do not know that this money I ought to take, 
 
 But, if you have cut off the man's hire for six months to 
 
 come, 
 That is sufficient punishment, I warrant. 
 But, beware young man, if I should see you on the streets 
 
 again ; 
 I will not deal thus with you a second time. 
 
 {Exit of watchman, murmuring as if to himself) Take great 
 
 heed, take great heed. 
 Methinks I ought to have fastened him with lock and key. 
 
 (Exit watchmen) 
 
 King James — 
 
 But where are my Lord and Lady Murray? 
 
 They were to meet us here ! 
 
 It seems to us Sir James that these good people 
 
 Are somewhat disconcerted at our refusal of the hand of 
 
 Mary of Tudor. 
 Never in all our kingly days have we been taken so much 
 
 to task. 
 So a king is to love at the request of a wise counselor, 
 Even should such a wise counselor be a woman. 
 Yet methinks I am somewhat fearful of her tongue, 
 She doth appear so full of wisdom. 
 And doth predict for us, such dire forebodings. 
 That fain would I have my Lord Murray keep the woman 
 
 away, 
 What say you, Sir James, shall we dismiss them both ? 
 
 Sir James — 
 
 Your Majesty, I could not take it upon myself 
 
 To say ought upon a matter so important, 
 
 Lord Murray is a good counselor and filled with wisdom. 
 
 And as for the noble Geraldyne, 
 
 I would place her for wisdom 
 
 Among the Gods themselves. 
 
The Princess Magdalene — . „ 
 
 "To King James my heart and hand are given. 
 
—27- 
 
 King James — 
 
 And are you too, Sir James, 
 
 Entering the lists against me? 
 
 You have fallen a victim 
 
 To the wiles of this clever but crafty woman. 
 
 It appears to me that you, too, 
 
 Wish me to wed the Princess Mary of Tudor. 
 
 But here I trow are our tardy visitors. 
 
 (Enter my Lord and Lidy Murray) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Late it appears to me that you have deigned 
 To answer a summons to your King. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 We did meet with an accident, 
 
 Of which I will not trouble Your Majesty, 
 
 Your most gracious Majesty's wishes 
 
 Are commands to us always, 
 
 Tomorrow, however, we sojourn 
 
 To the chateau of Lorraine 
 
 To see what destiny hath in store 
 
 For Scotland's King, 
 
 To quote your Majesty's own words. 
 
 Lady Murmy — 
 
 Ah my, liege lord, let me plead once more 
 
 Before it is too late, to retract this fatal step. 
 
 Let us hark back to Scotland's shores, 
 
 Despatch Lord Murray to King Henry, 
 
 Thus through the favor of my noble kinsman. 
 
 Lord Howard, renew those relations, 
 
 So petulently set aside, 
 
 With the Princess Mary of Tudor, 
 
 And thus King Henry's favor regain, 
 
 Be not mistaken, my King, 
 
 The King of England will a terrible vengeance wreak. 
 
 Upon our torn devoted Scotland 
 
 For the slight upon him cast. 
 
—28— 
 
 I pray your Majesty, upon my bended knees, 
 To take the council of one who has always found favor 
 In your eyes. It is not now too late to turn back, 
 My Lord Murray do thou plead with our King. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Your Majesty, Lady Geraldyne 
 
 Hath spoken well, and alas too wisely ! 
 
 I regard her sayings as fraught with deep concern. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Cease thy prattle, fair lady; 
 
 I am getting somewhat wearied of 
 
 The evil forebodings of thy speech. 
 
 Say no more to me on this subject 
 
 On the peril of my displeasure. 
 
 Tomorrow, my Lord Murray, 
 
 You can journey back to Scotland. 
 
 For it is not our will and purpose 
 
 To have the pleasure of our journey 
 
 Thus constantly imposed upon. 
 
 Lord Murray, do you take 
 
 The Lady Geraldyne back with you to Scotland, 
 
 And attend in person the meetings of our counselors. 
 
 And see to it, that our wishes are respected by my council, 
 
 While we are thus absent on France's soil. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 I will do as your Gracious Majesty commands. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Fare thee well my noble Murray. 
 
 And you too. Fair Geraldyne, 
 
 When next you see your sovereign prince 
 
 It will be when he returns to Scotland with his queen. 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 Farewell your Majesty, may every blessing attend you, 
 And bring you back to Scotland safe. 
 
 {Exit of Lord and Lady Murray.) 
 
—29— 
 
 Sir James Hamilton — 
 
 Your Majesty has surely had enough of this; 
 
 Your Majesty would be wise to once more resume his royal 
 
 garb. 
 His Majesty of Scotland was never fashioned for a valet 
 
 to a knight. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Now, good Sir James, bear with me awhile; 
 
 We shall soon be out of Paris. I have not hurt as yet. 
 
 I must go through with my resolve. 
 
 I am weary, Sir James. 
 
 Tomorrow at dawn we leave here for the chateau of Lorraine. 
 
 I will retire me to rest 
 
 And dream sweet dreams of Scotland and her Queen. 
 
 Leave me alone awhile, Sir James. 
 
 Sir James — 
 
 I bid your Majesty a good night and sound sleep (retires 
 bowing. ) 
 
 King James — ( Soliloquizing. ) 
 
 Sweet Magdalene. How fair a flower 
 
 For Scotland's Queen. 
 
 Yet, methinks, had I but seen her 
 
 I would not have thus gently renounced her for the Lady 
 
 Mary of Lorraine. 
 Magdalene! How she doth appeal to my affections! 
 But enough of this ! 'Tis too late for vain regrets ! 
 There is a fate in all our lives 
 From which we cannot flee, 
 But I am weary and will seek my couch. 
 
 CUETAIN DROPS. 
 
—30— 
 ACT III. 
 
 SCENE I. — Fete in the gardens of the Chateau of Lorraine. 
 
 The Duke and Mary of Lorraine; equerries and ladies in wait- 
 ing; people, merchants, landed gentry, farmers, etc. Tables 
 with goblets of wine and refreshments scattered about, from 
 which the people freely helped themselves; the people keep 
 on moving. .. Enter among the crowd Sir James Hamilton 
 and King James, disguised as his valet. They stand by 
 a table. Sir James lifts a goblet of wirue and drinks, after 
 which he bids his valet to do the same. . . General attention 
 is drawn to them. Mary of Lorraine attended by her lady 
 in waiting, Lady Ellenor, stroll through the gardens, they 
 ate attracted likewise. Mary starts at the sight of Sir James' 
 valet and whispers to Ellenor, both examine a miniature 
 which Mary has unfastened from her neck. 
 
 Mary de Lorraine — (Resting on the arm of her father.) 
 So the Gottfridds 
 Were the ancient rulers of Lorraine ? 
 
 Duke of Lorraine — 
 
 They were my child, 
 
 The name of Gottfridd is as old as that of Charlamagne. 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 And think you, my father. 
 
 That your daughter Mary of Lorraine 
 
 Hath in her veins all the pride of the Gottfridds? 
 
 Duke of Lorraine — 
 
 You have that, my child, and more too, 
 You have the gentle, generous blood 
 Of your saintly mother, Edith of Spoleto, 
 Who perished so early, 
 God rest her gentle soul. 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Have I not in all things 
 
Miss Grace Scatterday, who appeared in the role of 
 "Lady Ellenor." 
 
—Si- 
 Been a dutiful daughter to you, 
 Dear, good, kind and noble father ? 
 
 Duke of Lorraine — 
 
 You have always been, from your infancy. 
 My joy and comfort. 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Is it so, that our good King Francis I 
 And the Duke de Lorraine hath plighted 
 The hand of Mary de Lorraine to the King James V of 
 Scotland ? 
 
 Duhe de Lorraine — 
 That is truly so. 
 
 Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 And so my father wisheth me 
 To leave his side so that 
 I may sit upon a throne ? 
 
 Duke de Lorraine — 
 
 I have no such desire, my child, (takes her hand.) 
 
 But a parent's duty lies in the suitable mating of his child. 
 
 But come, I wish to rest me under these trees, 
 
 And talk awhile with my people; 
 
 There comes the gentle Ellenor, (Enter Ellenor.) 
 
 Do both of you, wander awhile in the woods. 
 
 Lady Mary — 
 
 Come Lady Ellenor, my father doth busy himself 
 
 Upon his estate and with his people; 
 
 Let us wander awhile in these woods 
 
 And enjoy these beautiful trees and flowers 
 
 And the fragrant air and song of the birds. 
 
 Father do not begone before your daughter returns, 
 
 (Lady Mary catches sight of King James, she turns to Ellenor 
 
 Lady Mary — 
 
 Come with me; a little nearer view may perhaps dispel the 
 
 illusion. 
 It cannot be King James of Scotland, 
 
—32— 
 
 But yet my heart seems faint with emotion, 
 For it whispers to me that it is the king. Come, come. 
 (She gently draws her lady-in-waiting by the hand; they pass by 
 Sir James and the King, who pretend to be unconscious of 
 their presence; Mary and her lady-in-ivaiting shyly glance 
 at King James, tahing him in from head to foot; Mary 
 turns sharply around as they have passed and whispers 
 audibly to her lady-in-waiting.) 
 
 Lady Mary — 
 
 'Tis the king! 'Tis the king! I must speak with him at 
 
 once. 
 My heart, my heart, how it flutters. {Places her hand to her 
 heart.) 
 
 Lady-in-waiting — 
 
 Keep thy courage, my sweet lady; 
 S'o handsome a man, and joined to such a mien, 
 Surely must be a king. {By this time King James has 
 drawn to one side; Mary approaches him; the people ob- 
 serve her with astonishment; Sir James Hamilton makes 
 an attempt to draw King James away from the fete, but 
 too late, for Mary has come up to him.) 
 
 Lady Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 Sire, you stand very far aside; 
 If it pleases your gracious Majesty of Scotland 
 To talk with my father and with me awhile, 
 You may if you so will. 
 
 (King James is taken considerably aback, but seeing his de- 
 ception has failed, he is determined to make the best of the 
 situation; he is very much ashamed of his garb, however. 
 The people around show considerable astonishment and in" 
 Merest at Lady Mary bestowing her favor upon a valet.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Your ladyship has guessed too well, 
 
 I rather that your ladyship had not such keen eyes; 
 
 My appearance thus is bad presumption, 
 
—88— 
 
 For that I humbly crave your pardon; {Drops on one Jcnee 
 
 and takes her hand and kisses it;) 
 
 Which I know kind lady you will bestow; 
 
 I had taken upon me this garb of service 
 
 Hoping thus to see you, sweet lady, unperceived. 
 
 So prithee, pardon my garb, (He arises here.) 
 
 And if your worthy father, my grace of Lorraine 
 
 Will deign to welcome me, such as I am, 
 
 I am, sweet lady, at your service, (Bows low to her.) 
 
 This, my lady, is the noble Sir James Hamilton, 
 
 Who has accompanied me in all my wanderings. 
 
 To him I owe a service as a valet, 
 
 But he will give me dismissal at your behest. 
 
 Lady Mary — (To Sir James.) 
 
 Welcome, Sir James, to Lorraine, 
 
 Your valet here has made our feast thrice happy; 
 
 You will, I crave at my request, dismiss him from your 
 
 service, 
 So that I may employ him as I wish. 
 What say you. Sir James ? Will you dispense his service ? 
 
 Sir James Hamilton — 
 
 Your ladyship has spoken well; 
 
 If you will but take his majesty 
 
 As hostage for our good behavior, 
 
 I will make further promise 
 
 Never to employ a king again as a valet. 
 
 Or ever to obtrude ourselves upon your presence unawares. 
 
 Lady Mary — 
 
 Well said. Sir James; 
 
 Your valet I will take into mine own service 
 
 And retain as hostage for your good behaviour, 
 
 Come, your Majesty, my hostage, 
 
 I will present you to his grace, my father. (Mary proceeds 
 
 toward the ducal party with the king, followed by Sir James 
 
 Hamilton. . 
 
—34— 
 
 Duke of Lormine — 
 
 Whom have we here, my Lady Mary? {Looking surprised 
 and astonished as Mary walks through the assemhly on the 
 arm of a valet.) 
 
 Lady Mary — 
 
 My lord, your grace, his majesty King James of Scotland, 
 
 Who hath performed a part of great decorum. 
 
 He had wished to see me as I am, 
 
 And with this good Sir James Hamilton 
 
 Hath traveled as his valet; 
 
 But this likeness, that happened upon my breast, discovered 
 
 him, 
 I present to you, King James V of Scotland, the suitor for 
 
 the hand of Mary de Lorraine. (The duke having al- 
 ready arisen at Mary's announcement, embraces King 
 James.) 
 
 Duke de Lorraine — 
 
 Welcome to Lorraine, your Majesty; 
 And you too. Sir James. 
 
 (Music goes on, the ducal party converse, Mary and King James 
 move slightly away from the rest; then while the music 
 proceeds, the king retires with Sir James Hamilton, and 
 shortly afterwards returns attired in his royal apparel. He 
 is then introduced hy the duke to the festive makers. 
 
 Duke de Lormine — 
 
 My lords and knights and kind friends. 
 
 Your attention, I pray. 
 
 I make known to you. King James of Scotland, 
 
 Who has traveled far to adorn our feast. (All bow low, 
 
 several come and bend a knee to kiss King James' hand. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Friends, a long way have I come to see my lord 
 
 The Duke of Lorraine, 
 
 And the sweet Lady Mary, to whom I have plighted my troth. 
 
 Your welcome appeals to me indeed. 
 
,GQ 
 
—35— 
 
 For wliich, kind friends, I thank you heartily. 
 
 {Music goes on. Here may be introduced singing, music, per- 
 formances, etc. While this performance proceeds, the ducal 
 party retires. ) 
 
 CURTAIN DROPS. 
 
 SCENE II. — (May he in the same gardens. Present -.King 
 James and Sir James Hamilton.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Our kind hosts have done us much honor. 
 And have given us great pleasure indeed. 
 
 Sir James Hamilton — 
 
 Thou hast truly said, Your Majesty; 
 
 Today we will visit with the King of France. 
 
 His Majesty will no doubt take your opinion 
 
 Upon the Lady Mary, the future Queen of Scotland. 
 
 King Jarms — 
 
 Hush ! Hush ! Hold thy peace, Sir James. 
 
 Of that no more. See to it that our chariot will be here. 
 
 That we may begone. 
 (Sir James is very much surprised at the change of King James' 
 
 tone.) 
 
 Sir James — 
 
 Pray what aileth your gracious Majesty? 
 Your Majesty is ill this morn. 
 
 King James — 
 
 N^o, no, Sir James; I only wish ourselves begone; 
 
 The kindness of our friends hath overcome me. 
 
 Pray see to the chariot. 
 {Sir James retires homing low to the Icing.) 
 
 King James — ( Soliloquizing. ) 
 
 How I do despise myself for such base conduct. 
 Mary of Lorraine is both fair and gentle, 
 Her manners too are engaging. 
 But I cannot, cannot find it in my heart 
 
—36— 
 
 To take her to myself. 
 
 The Princess Magdalene holds my deep affection. 
 But yet I have plighted my troth to the Lady Mary. 
 O! Wretched man that I am! {He pauses for a minute, 
 sitting himself down, then suddenly springing up proclaims :) 
 By heaven, I cannot marry Mary; 
 I will not marry Mary. 
 I will go to King Francis of France 
 
 And plead my claim for the Princess Magdalene. {Pause.) 
 And yet such base dishonor 
 "Would it be to our kind friends here, 
 And to the gentle Mary too, 
 
 That the thought unmans me. {Pause awhile in deep medi- 
 tition.) 
 
 No. no, I cannot marry Mary. 
 Away with all faltering fears; 
 Magdalene of France hath my love. 
 With her I will urge my cause — 
 To be accepted or to be cast off. 
 {Enter Sir James.) 
 
 Sir James — 
 
 The chariot doth await your Majesty's pleasure. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Come let us go and bid adieu 
 
 To our noble host 
 
 And to the gentle Mary. 
 {They leave the room. Music slow and pathetic. Shortly enter 
 
 Mary de Lorraine and her Lady-in-Waiting.) 
 
 Lady Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 His Majesty of Scotland leaves today 
 
 To see the King of France. 
 
 Ah! I have such heavy sorrow at my heart 
 
 That it bodes me ill. 
 
 He mentioned to me the Princess Magdalene. {Pauses.) 
 
 Yet it cannot be. 
 
 To me he has plighted his troth; 
 
 But still — but still I am unhappy. 
 
Lady Mary de Lorraine — (Miss Clara Evvard.) 
 "Ah! Gentle EUenor, I love him so 
 That the faintest shadow of a doubt 
 Dotb. disturb me much." 
 
—37— 
 
 Such doubts and fears arise 
 
 Uncontrollably in my mind. 
 
 Ab! Gentle Ellenor, I love bim so 
 
 Tbat tbe faintest sbadow of a doubt 
 
 Dotb disturb me mucb. 
 
 And yet metbinks at times 
 
 That be has been somewhat cold; 
 
 And then again bis fervor would overreach himself. 
 
 Yet still he loves me, 
 
 Think you not so, Ellenor ? 
 
 Ellenor — (Lady-in-Waiting. ) 
 Certainly, my Lady Mary; 
 He could not do otherwise, 
 If I may be so bold to say. 
 Put aside all fears of rivalry — 
 King James is an honorable man. 
 And a king's word is bis bond always. 
 Besides, he has twice plighted you his troth — 
 Once in Scotland, and then again at your father's feast. 
 Pray banish all base fears; 
 They are unworthy of tbe man you love. 
 
 Lady Mary — 
 
 True, gentle Ellenor; 
 
 You do but chide me just. 
 
 As my affianced is a king, 
 
 I should with queenly thoughts 
 
 Entertain his remembrance. 
 
 And put aside all vulgar fears. 
 
 He departs today and will be here anon 
 
 To bid me farewell until he comes again 
 
 To welcome me as Scotland's queen. 
 
 Yet — yet — ah ! These fears, bow they take bold of me. 
 
 Here he comes! 
 
 (Enter King James and Sir James Hamilton.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 My sweet lady, I have come to say farewell. 
 
—38— 
 
 I have but this moment bid your father adieu; 
 
 And 'tis but left to me to make this sorrowing parting with 
 
 your ladyship. 
 Your ladyship has shown such favors to Scotland's king, 
 That he cannot forget such kindnesses. 
 My horses are at unrest without — 
 But why protract this sorrow? 
 For parting is sweet pain indeed. 
 (King James drops on one knee and taking her hand, rever- 
 ently kisses it.) 
 
 Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 Adieu, King James, adieu; 
 
 And may it go well with your Majesty. 
 
 Farewell! (She turns her face to hide her emotion, while 
 
 King James retires, moving backwards towards the door, 
 
 followed by Sir James in a similar manner.) 
 Mary de Lorraine — (When King James has retired, with deep 
 
 emotion to Lady Ellenor.) 
 
 Not one word did he say of his return, fair Ellenor. 
 
 Ah! My doubts misgive me. (Sobs on E lienor's shoulder.) 
 
 CUKTAIN DROPS. 
 
 SCENE III — Chamber in the palace of King Francis of France. 
 Present: Francis, and seated by his side on a low stool 
 is Magdalene. 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Your Majesty has been gracious to me 
 
 To forget your feelings for your child. 
 
 I have been so happy, my father, 
 
 Since King James has been here. 
 
 King James hath said to me 
 
 That without me, he cannot live; 
 
 And I can not live without him now. 
 
 He comes this morning to plead with you 
 
 For the hand of the Princess Magdalene. 
 
 I have told him that you will not refuse him. 
 
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—39— 
 
 But why so silent? 
 
 Be not downcast, my father; 
 
 I may surmise that you regret my happiness. 
 
 King Francis I — {Laying his hand upon her head.) 
 
 'Tis not that, my child, that lays so great a weight upon my 
 
 heart ; 
 It is for your welfare that I feel concerned. 
 Could I, with honor to King James, 
 The Duke of Lorraine and Francis I of France, 
 Discard his visit to Lorraine 
 And his plighted troth? 
 
 Magdalene — {Rising. ) 
 
 Enough, your Majesty. 
 
 King James did explain to me 
 
 His doings and how they were misunderstood. 
 
 He w^ent disguised, and as a valet, too. 
 
 And not as King of Scotland ; 
 
 And if Mary de Lorraine chose to interpret 
 
 His natural gallantry, as a bold knight and king, 
 
 Into expressions of devotion to herself, 
 
 I, for one, cannot esteem one so bold. 
 
 Your counselors are to assemble today 
 
 To weigh upon this matter ; how early do they arrive ? 
 
 King Francis I — 
 
 Anon; methinks I hear them. 
 
 {The King arising, encircles an arm around Magdalene and 
 leads her to a seat. TBe counselors forthwith enter, with 
 King James of Scotland and Sir James Hamilton.) 
 
 One of the Counselors — 
 The King of Scotland. 
 Make way, my lords, I entreat you. 
 
 {King James approaches Francis I, drops on one Tcnee and 
 hisses his hand.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 My lord, my King of France, I have come 
 
—40— 
 
 The hand of the fair Princess Magdalene to ask. 
 Magdalene to me for many years gone past has been 
 The hope of all my future years. 
 To place her on Scotland's throne 
 Has long been my fond desire. 
 (Taking King James by the hand and arising himself.) 
 
 Francis I — 
 
 Arise, good King James; by me be seated, pray. 
 
 With thee, and these wise counselors of mine, I will speak 
 awhile. 
 
 Some time before we wrote 
 
 That our daughter, the Princess Magdalene, 
 
 Was too delicate of health to brave 
 
 The piercing winds of Scotland's shores. 
 
 Therefore, I entreat, your claims desist 
 
 And look to Mary of Lorraine, 
 
 To whom you have plighted your troth, 
 (King James arises from his seat and moves away a step or two.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 My lord, your majesty, Mary of Lorraine I will not marry, 
 Even should Scotland live without a queen. 
 So make no more of that, I pray. 
 
 King Francis I — 
 
 Then look to Margaret, my second daughter; 
 
 She is more robust than Magdalene, 
 
 And will make a fitting consort to your Majesty. 
 
 'No cold winds of Scotland can her spirit quench 
 
 Much before her time. 
 
 I entreat your Majesty to consider her. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Your Gracious Majesty, with all respect 
 
 To her royal highness the Princess Margaret, 
 
 I cannot, nay, I will not yield the Princess Magdalene. 
 
 (King James moves toward Magdalene, who advances to meet 
 him. He leads her to tlte. King of France, her father, and 
 both Jcneel before him.) 
 
—41— 
 
 King James — 
 
 Sire, your Gracious Majesty, 
 
 On us your children your blessing pray bestow; 
 
 Our lives indissoluble in one are linked. 
 
 Strong or weak, healthy or sick, Magdalene my queen 
 
 shall be 
 
 And on Scotland's throne shall sit with me. 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 My father, thou didst promise me 
 
 That thou wouldst not my purpose thwart 
 
 To wed King James of Scotland; 
 
 So give us both your blessing, I entreat. 
 
 One of the Counselors of Francis I — 
 Your Majesty must remember, 
 
 That this upon the house of Lorraine will throw a slight. 
 King James has already, we have been informed, 
 Plighted his troth to Mary of Lorraine. 
 
 Magdalene — (Arising and turning to the speaker.) 
 
 That is not so, sir! 
 
 Mary of Lorraine mistakes. 
 
 King James' gallantries have been misconstrued 
 
 Into expressions of regard for the Princess Mary. 
 
 Sir, I pray thee, wise sir, kindly hold thy peace. 
 
 And let the blessings of his Majesty, my father, 
 
 Rest upon our heads, 
 
 Your interruption Showeth but little regard 
 
 For the feelings c a royal princess. 
 
 Pray, sir, take more heed. 
 
 Francis I — 
 
 My wise counselors, the Princess Magdalene is right. 
 
 For weal or woe, in wedlock I will her bestow 
 
 Upon King James of Scotland. 
 
 Her simple love to me doth more appeal 
 
 Than all the reasons of state. ^ 
 
 I can p-^ longer my consent withold. 
 
 Magdaxcne my favor has already claimed. 
 
—42— 
 
 To the house of Lorraine I will make amends. 
 To mine no more, mj lords, your will oppose. 
 King James of Scotland to me a son will be 
 In place of him that is lost. (And placing his hands upon 
 the heads of King James and Magdalene.) 
 Upon you, my children, let a father's blessing rest. 
 (A stir at the door; general attention is directed towards it.) 
 
 Francis I — (Looking up.) 
 
 Whom have we here, my lords ? 
 
 The Lord Chamberlain — 
 
 His grace the Duke of Lorraine, the Lady Mary of Lor- 
 raine, his grace the Duke of Albany. 
 (King Francis I, King James V, and Magdalene arise; ihay 
 
 hoiu low in salutation.) 
 
 Francis I — 
 
 Welcome my good Duke of Lorraine, and you loo, fair 
 
 Princess. 
 What tidings, my good Duke, dost thou bring? 
 
 Duhe of Lorraine — 
 
 No tidings of joy, your Majesty. 
 
 We heard it said that King James of Scotland 
 
 Is suitor for your daughter's hand, the Princess Magdalene. 
 
 Not wishing so tender a flower to wound, 
 
 I crave permission to advance my daughter's claims 
 
 To the throne of Scotland. 
 
 Twice plighted he his troth — his Majesty of Scotland — 
 
 To Mary of Lorraine. 
 
 Is that not so, my Duke of Albany? 
 
 DuJce of Albany — 
 
 That, my lord, is so. 
 
 King James of Scotland — 
 
 Come, come, my good Duke of Albany, 
 Did you not bear an epistle from my King of France 
 Telling me of the frail health of the Princess Magdalene? 
 On that score alone, although it sore tried my heart 
 
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—43— 
 
 I did give my consent to consider the fair Lady de Lorraine, 
 
 Came I not on France's soil to carry out my royal pledge'^ 
 
 But fate had otherwise decreed; 
 
 It appears to me that the Princess Magdalene 
 
 Was nQ%^ party to that arrangement. 
 
 She insists on holding to her compact — 
 
 A compact that was to have made her 
 
 Wife of James V, and Queen of Scotland. 
 
 She holds me to this; 
 
 Indeed, to tell the truth, I am but too willing to be held. 
 
 If injustice I have done unwittingly, 
 
 I crave pardon of those I did so offend. 
 
 Princess Magdalene-^ 
 
 It is true, your grace of Albany, and my grace of Lorraine, 
 
 To which my royal father can testify his truth, 
 
 I did not consent to yield up Scotland's King and coronet. 
 
 Since earliest dawn of maidenhood 
 
 Scotland's King to me was pledged, 
 
 My childish heart I did to him yield. 
 
 To womanhood now that I have attained, 
 
 Upon him I still bestow it. 
 
 Dare any prevent it? 
 
 What was mine was mine; 
 
 Without my consent should not from me been promised; 
 
 I pray thee, sweet and gentle Mary, 
 
 In our happiness do join. 
 
 It would make me sad, indeed, to think 
 
 That you do not wish me joy. Who can tell? 
 
 Scotland's throne for long I may not grace. 
 {Magdalene goes up to Mary of Lorraine when she addresses her.) 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — {Throwing her arms impulsively around Mag- 
 dalem. ) 
 
 Oh, sweet Magdalene, my Princess, so fair a flower, 
 I cannot find it in my heart to cause a moment's pain. 
 It is true I do fervently love King James, 
 And it is not strange too, perhaps, 
 To love the one who hath plighted you his troth; 
 
—44— 
 
 I thought that King James did my love return. 
 
 Sometimes he acted as though he did; 
 
 But I had strange misgivings; 
 
 To me it seems quite clear that on you 
 
 King James has bestowed his affection and his love, 
 
 So take it, Magdalene, my sweet Princess, 
 
 And may you both live long and happily; 
 
 Far be it removed from me 
 
 To cause either an unhappy thought. 
 
 Your most gracious Majesty, my Lord, King of France, 
 
 And my father here, I do renounce all claim. 
 
 That perhaps I never had. 
 
 Upon Scotland's King and coronet. 
 
 And let not a shadow rest upon the happiness of our sweet 
 Princess Magdalene of France. {Mary breaks into 
 sobs; and sinks into her father's arms.) 
 
 King Francis I — 
 
 Come, Your Majesty, my lords and counselors, we will re- 
 pair 
 
 To our other apartments, leaving the Lady Mary awhile 
 with her father, 
 
 She doth appear in great distress. 
 
 King James gently draws Magdalene away; all retire, foMowed 
 by the King of France, who hesitates at the door awhile, 
 then turns back to Mary, and smoothing her brow, implants 
 a kiss upon her forehead. ' 
 
 King Francis — 
 
 Most noble cchild. {He retires in evident distress and Lady 
 Mary is left alone with her father, the Duke of Lorraine.) 
 
 Duke of Lorraine — 
 
 Having renounced your claim to Scotland's throne, 
 Keey thy courage; let none other see a Lorraine struck in 
 misery. 
 
 Mary of Lormine — 
 
 Ah ! Ilj sire ! Alas ! :Mine vain hopes as Scotland's Queen. 
 May I never find it in my heart 
 
Miss Agnes Lannon, as "Magdalene," Queen of Scotland. 
 
—45— 
 
 To cause the smallest anguish to our Princess Magdalene 
 
 of France. 
 I will live apart for years to come, 
 Endeavoring to forget King James. 
 Renouncing worldly aims, I will seek a cloister cell, 
 Passing my days in prayer and good deeds. 
 
 Duke of Lorraine — 
 
 You will think otherwise in years to come, my noble girl. 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Father, do you not know your daughter's heart ? 
 This fell stroke has severed it in twain; 
 Say no more, let us begone from hence 
 And seek our home. Come, father {Taking his hand.) 
 We must go unnoticed if we can. (They leave hy a side 
 door.) 
 
 CURTAIN DROPS. 
 
 SCENE IV. — A cloister cell in a convent. Mary de Lorraine 
 attired in white, with her two attendants. Elderly nuns. 
 
 The Elderly Attendant — 
 
 Enter, my lady. {Magdalene enters, attired as Queen of 
 Scotland; Mary looks up and starts on sight of her visitor; 
 she quickly recovers herself, however.) 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Whence comes this honor to me, my most noble queen? 
 
 Magdalene — {Holding Mary's hands.) 
 
 I have come to say farewell, sweet Mary; 
 
 Tomorrow we sail from France, for Scotland's far off shores, 
 
 And I could not leave my country thus 
 
 Without bidding you adieu. 
 
 My happiness is so great, 
 
 That sometimes I think it cannot last. 
 
 Mary, it makes me sad to think that you 
 
 Have suffered much by my happiness. • j 
 
—46— 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Your Majesty has conferred upon me an honor, 
 
 This gracious mark of your royal favor. 
 
 I shall cherish always. 
 
 Think no more of me, my sadness has long since passed. 
 
 I am happy here from day to day. 
 
 Doing what ere I can find to do of good, 
 
 And in prayerful thought submitting to the will of Heaven. 
 
 And perhaps, I would not change my daily course 
 
 Even for your owti, sweet Queen. 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Mary most Royal Princess in all of France, 
 
 If Royalty measured is to be. 
 
 By such splendid beauty of form and mind, 
 
 All the passions of a woman's heart 
 
 Hast thou not laid aside for me ? 
 
 Making me debtor, here. 
 
 And all through eternity, 
 
 A thought lies heavy on my heart, 
 
 And to this holy place I come 
 
 To ask of you a pledge, 
 
 A pledge which you cannot refuse me. 
 
 Mary, this thought that possession takes 
 
 Of my very inmost soul. 
 
 This thought, a sad one too it is. 
 
 That Scotland is soon to be without a Queen, 
 
 And that no issue shall I leave. 
 
 To sit on Scotland's throne. 
 
 To carry down through time, the name 
 
 Of Stewart, the Royal name of Scotland. 
 
 King James will be perforce compelled 
 
 To seek another Queen, when I am gone, 
 
 To conserve his lineage, 
 
 So that Scotland's King 
 
 Shall not be left without an heir: — 
 
 To me, this solemn pledge he has given, 
 
 Should I soon go hence 
 

 
 <j ►-• p 
 
 ^ O 
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 P ® o. 
 
—47— 
 
 And Scotland is left without an heir, 
 
 Upon you, has he pledged to me, 
 
 He will place his royal affections: — 
 
 For in all this wide world 
 
 Where is there another 
 
 So well fitted to take my place 
 
 Than the Mary of Lorraine? 
 
 Whose self-sacrificial love 
 
 For her Princess Magdalene of France, 
 
 Has secured to me, that Magdalene, 
 
 So great a happiness that I now enjoy. 
 
 To you, a suppliant do I come. 
 
 To entreat you, to pledge me 
 
 In this holy place, 
 
 That you will not take those vows. 
 
 Vows that will bind you nearer to Heaven, 
 
 And shut out forever all thoughts of earth. 
 
 So that, when I am gone. 
 
 Your conduct will still be free. 
 
 Your life and liberty you"^own, 
 
 To bestow them upon whom you may. 
 
 Pledge me this, sweet Mary. 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Enough, enough, dear Magdalene, 
 If you would not cause my heart to burst 
 With all these conflicting emotions. 
 Ah me! Why was I ever born {Aside.) 
 To suffer such agonies of mind and soul? 
 {Pause.) 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Mary, sweet Mary, will you not give me the pledge I ask? 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 Magdalene, my Koyal Princess, 
 
 If it would ease thy pain. 
 
 Ten thousand such pledges would I give 
 
 To see that bright smile again. 
 
—48— 
 
 But stay, your gracious Majesty, 
 
 Fervently have I prayed to Heaven, 
 
 That long and hallowed your life may be, 
 
 Strewn with every blessing 
 
 That life can give: — 
 
 And I believe, most solemnly, 
 
 That my prayer will be answered: — 
 
 There is no occasion, my Princess, 
 
 For what you so much desire of me. 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Could that be so! God grant it. 
 
 For I am loath to leave 
 
 King James, and all the happiness 
 
 Of these coming years, when I am 
 
 To reign as Queen of Scotland. 
 
 If your prayers are answered. 
 
 Then there are no reasons 
 
 Why you should withold from me 
 
 This pledge I ask of you. 
 
 Mary of Lorraine — 
 
 So strange a pledge, my Magdalene, 
 It unnerves me much to take; 
 Of womanliness it seems devoid. 
 It, to me, unseemly appears. 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Mary, if I did not feel so certain here, 
 
 (Points to her breast.) 
 
 That I am destined 
 
 To tarry but a short while 
 
 Before I take that journey, far, 
 
 Far, beyond the Scottish shores. 
 
 Think you, I would ask you to pledge me 
 
 So strange a pledge like this, 
 
 "Were I not conscious of my short hours ? 
 
 Mary, pledge me this pledge, 
 
 And my happiness will be complete, 
 
Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 "Enough, enough, dear Magdalene, 
 
 If you would not cause my heart to burst." 
 
—49— 
 
 Refuse me, and you will help to dash 
 This shallow cup of sweetness from my lips, 
 And fill all my few remaining days 
 With wretchedness and with regret. 
 
 Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 Your Majesty, doth ask of me a pledge, 
 
 That I would die, a thousand times again, than give. 
 
 Even if by the giving of such a pledge. 
 
 Could be assured to the Mary de Lorraine 
 
 All the thrones and all the honors in the world: 
 
 But I cannot embitter your happiness, 
 
 Dear Princess Magdalene of France, 
 
 For full well I know your gentle heart. 
 
 1 will give you the pledge you ask, 
 
 My most noble and gracious Queen, 
 
 And I pray our good Father in Heaven 
 
 To grant that I may never redeem it. 
 
 Magdalene — 
 
 Mary, I thank thee, a thousand times 
 
 From the bottom of my heart, 
 
 For you have lifted a burden from my soul. 
 
 CURTAIN DROPS. 
 
—bO— 
 ACT IV. 
 
 FIVE YEARS AFTER. 
 
 SCENE I. — Throne room in Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh. Pres- 
 ent'. Mary de Lorraine, now Queen of Scotland, seated on 
 the throne. Lady Gemldyne Murray and infant Princess. 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 Lady Geraldjne, long has it been my desire 
 
 To inquire somewhat of you of our sweet Magdalene of 
 
 France. 
 Alas! Too frail, too fragile a flower to last, 
 You have doubtless heard of the pledge 
 That the Princess required of me, 
 When I was in the convent of St. Marks, in France. 
 
 Lady Geraldyrve Murray — 
 
 I have heard the sad, sweet story from her Majesty, 
 While she lay ill abed before she died. 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 King James did also narrate to me, 
 
 The opposition shown by Lord Murray and yourself 
 
 To the alliance with France, 
 
 And how vehemently you both endeavored 
 
 To circumvent his royal will, ; 
 
 And he, the King, did dismiss you home 
 
 From France's soil for opposing his purpose. 
 
 Ijttdy Geraldyne Murray — , 
 
 That is so my lady, but no unkind feeling 
 Did we ever show the sweet Princess of France ; • 
 
 !Nor did she ever occasion find : 
 
 To complain of the loyalty of the Murrays — 
 The marriage of King James having taken place, 
 As loyal subjects of his Majesty, ; 
 
 We bestowed upon her our warmest affection. 
 
Mary de Lorraine — 
 
 "I will give you the pledge you ask," 
 
—51— 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 Often has the King spoken, to me, of this, 
 And of the kindness of thy mother's heart 
 To the Princess Magdalene, 
 And that she had died upon your breast. 
 Calling you by the hallowed name of mother. 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — (In distress.) 
 
 Say no more, I pray your gracious Majesty, 
 
 It causes me to live again 
 
 Through all those last harrowing hours. 
 
 I did truly regard the Princess Magdalene 
 
 As a daughter to myself, and as such 
 
 She has left an aching void within mine heart — 
 
 And with her last breath, she bade me 
 
 Bestow upon you, should you become Scotland's Queen, 
 
 My greatest love and care, 
 
 And who indeed, if they were but human. 
 
 Could otherwise regard the late Queen of Scotland — 
 
 We did not swerve a hair's breath 
 
 In our devotion to our Queen Magdalene, 
 
 While she did reign, the Queen of Scotland: — 
 
 We feared, Lord Murray and myself, 
 
 That Henry, of England, would empty 
 
 The vials of his wrath upon this stricken land 
 
 If King James refused the hand 
 
 Of the Princess Mary of Tudor: — 
 
 It is five years now agone, 
 
 Henry hath his attention taken elsewhere. 
 
 And hath not troubled Scotland: — 
 
 But still I live in daily fear and trembling 
 
 That he may yet work his evils upon ue. 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 Pray bring the infant near 
 
 That we may regard her. 
 
 Hark! I hear the King's footsteps. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Why this weeping? I trust the child is not iUS \ 
 
—52— 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 Heaven forbid, your gracious Majesty, 
 
 But dear Lady Geraldyne here 
 
 Has plighted her affections 
 
 To me, as a mother, 
 
 And I have plighted my affections 
 
 To her, as a daughter; 
 
 She showers upon me 
 
 All the love of her mother's heart, 
 
 That love, you know so well, 
 
 She showered upon our sweet Princess Magdalene, 
 
 The greatly lamented Queen of Scotland. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Let us put aside, today, all sad thoughts. 
 
 And in some diversion seek 
 
 A respite from our kingly duties; 
 
 But see. Lord Murray approaches in haste 
 
 With a missive in his hand, 
 
 A supplication, I take it. 
 
 From one of our subjects in distress. (Enter Lord Murray.) 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 An epistle from England 
 
 To the Lady Geraldyne. 
 
 With your permission, your Majesty, 
 
 I will hand, my Lady, this missive. 
 
 King James — 
 
 Most assuredly, hand the epistle. 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 May I be so bold as to read this epistle? 
 
 Methinks it is from my noble kinsman, Lord Howard. 
 
 King James — 
 
 You have our permission, gentle lady. 
 Before it is asked. (Lady Murray opens the letter and is 
 greatly agitated while reading it.) 
 
King James V — 
 
 "Sweet Mary, the hour has struck 
 For me to say farewell," 
 
—53— 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — 
 Woe is Scotland! 
 Woe is Scotland ! 
 The English are approaching 
 Thirty thousand strong. 
 
 King James — 
 
 What doth the lady say, 
 
 The English approaching? 
 
 She must be demented. (Aside.) 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 What the English approaching? 
 
 It cannot be true, indeed, 
 
 King James you would have 
 
 Long since been thus informed, 
 
 If such were the truth ? 
 
 Thou art not jesting, dear Geraldyne? 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — 
 
 Heaven forbid that I should make so sorry a jest. 
 The good Lord Howard has fulfilled his pledge to me. 
 The letter dates from York — 
 
 Read but the epistle for yourself, your Majesty. (Hands 
 the letter to the King, who hastily takes it.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 It is from York. "We are marching upon Scotland 
 Thirty thousand strong." 
 Produce the messenger that brought this? 
 (Lifts up the paper. Lord Murray steps outside for the mes- 
 senger. He returns in a short while with him.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Step forward, my good man — 
 Answer me truthfully and promptly. 
 Who gave thee this epistle? 
 When and where ? 
 
 Messenger — 
 
 The Lord Howard, at York, 
 
—54- 
 
 Two evenings ago — 
 
 I was to place it in the hands of either Lord or Lady Murray. 
 
 The King — 
 
 What was the strength of the English army ? 
 
 Messenger — 
 
 About thirty thousand strong 
 At my best judgment 
 
 The King — 
 
 In what direction were they marching? 
 
 Messenger — 
 
 They were marching, by forced marches, northward. 
 
 The King to the Messenger — 
 
 You may retire. {Exit the messenger.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Lord Murray, give thou the alarm 
 And call Scotland to arms. 
 
 (Lord Murray gives the alarm; soldiers quickly flocJc in 
 from every direction, crying) 
 
 To war, to war, lead us on good King James, 
 To death or to victory. 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 My good James, dost thou have to go ? 
 
 King James — 
 
 I can but bid thee a hasty farewell, 
 
 Mnry, my wife, my queen, 
 
 The Kings of Scotland doth ever lead their troops 
 
 Into the thickest of the fight. 
 
 Come all men here, your swords uplift, 
 
 S'wear to defend the honor of the King, 
 
 And should I return no more, 
 
 Swear to defend my wife and child, 
 
 The infant Princess Mary, 
 
 Who will reign the Queen of Sccotland. 
 
Mary de Lorraine — - . 
 
 "Leave me not thus, I entreat you—" 
 Leave me not, my husband, my king.' 
 
—55— 
 
 The soldiers — {Lifting their arms.) 
 We swear it upon the Cross, 
 And upon Scotland's Holy Saint, St. Andrew. 
 (Exit soldiers. The King then embraces his wife.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Sweet Mary, the hour has struck for me to say fareweM, 
 
 I have occasioned you, in past years. 
 
 Some pangs of sorrow: Forgive King James — 
 
 I go forth to meet Scotland's bitter foes. 
 
 To conquer or to die: — 
 
 If I do not come again sweet Mary, 
 
 Teach our child that her father 
 
 King James, the V, of Scotland, 
 
 Did die fighting at his post, 
 
 Doing his duty to his land and people: — 
 
 Farewell my wife, my Queen, farewell. 
 
 And do thou. Lady Geraldyne, 
 
 Take good care of the Queen, 
 
 And of our child, Scotland's heir — 
 
 And if I come not again, console my Mary, 
 
 For her gentle heart will suffer much. 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Attend carefully the King's commander, my Geraldyne, 
 
 Give thy greatest care to the Queen and babe. 
 
 Our three sons are on horse without, 
 
 I will bid them farewell for you:— 
 
 Farewell, most noble woman 
 
 That ever didst live upon this earth. 
 
 (Lord Murray hastily embraces his wife.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Hasten — Hasten. 
 
 (Lord Murray retires with drawn sword.) 
 
 (Queen Mary throws her arms around the King's nscTc.) 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 Leave me not thus, I entreat you — 
 
—56— 
 
 Leave me not thus, my husband, my King. 
 {King James gently disengages himself and tenderly con- 
 signs the Queen to the arms of Lady Geraldyne Murray.) 
 
 King James — 
 
 Farewell — Farewell. To horse — To horse. 
 (King James retires with uplifted sword.) 
 
 CURTAIL DROPS. 
 
 SCENE II. — Throne roo7n. Present :{The Queen Mary of Lor- 
 raine and child, and Lady Geraldyne Murray. The Queen 
 seated. ) 
 
 Queen Mary — 
 
 Dear Geraldyne, a fortnight has elapsed 
 
 Since our good king and bold knights 
 
 Went forth to this accursed war, 
 
 I have grieved so greatly for Scotland's woes, 
 
 That it escaped my mind to ask you, how it came about 
 
 That you received such timely warning 
 
 Of the approach of the English forces ? 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — 
 
 Your Majesty, Lord Howard, is mine o^\^l cousin. 
 
 My mother's sister's son, 
 
 When he came to Scotland some five years ago. 
 
 To offer the hand, of the Princess Mary of Tudor, 
 
 In marriage to our own good King James, 
 
 He then gave me this promise, 
 
 For service that Lord Murray and myself 
 
 Had rendered him with our best endeavors 
 
 To bring success to this English alliance, 
 
 Because Lord Murray and myself 
 
 Knowing well the temper of King Henry the VIII, 
 
 That he would wreak his vengeance upon Scotland, 
 
 Should King James spurn the offer of his daughter's hand. 
 
 We thought the danger had passed, 
 
 But the monstrous English King 
 
 Hath nursed his anger until now: — 
 
—57— 
 
 We must be courageous and not lose heart, 
 We have this child here to protect from ill. 
 
 The Queen — 
 
 True good Geraldyne 
 
 Let us not downcast appear before the people, 
 
 We should show no feeling, 
 
 But the consciousness of a victory. 
 
 And Scotland's complete deliverance 
 
 And the safe return of our King, 
 
 So that these people may take heart 
 
 Even should defeat and death overtake our forces. 
 
 We should show our confidence 
 
 In Scotland to defend herself: — 
 
 Let us take the child and present her to the people. 
 
 The Queen tahes the child and goes toward the 'wwdov\ 
 Just then Lord Murray comes in with dishevelled hair and hlood 
 stained clothes. The tumult of the populace is heard outside. The 
 Queen, still clutching her child, goes toward Lord Murray who 
 is advancing. 
 
 The Queen — 
 
 What news, what news my Lord Murray? 
 
 Your countenance belieth a victory, 
 
 Tell us quickly. Hath Scotland lost the victory { 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 Our army has been defeated. 
 
 And while the battle raged, 
 
 The King dispatched me back to Scotland 
 
 To take you and the babe into safe hiding. 
 
 Until his return. 
 
 Queen Mary — ^. 
 
 Was he safe and unhurt? 
 
 Lord Murray — 
 
 He was safe and unhurt when I left him, 
 The English were quickly following up 
 Our vanquished army: — 
 
—58— 
 
 They will soon be at the gates of Edinburgh — 
 
 We have no time to lose. 
 
 We must begone from here, 
 
 For the safer keeping of the babe and thyself — 
 
 Let us flee before it is too late. 
 
 The noise increases outside, firing is heard, and a great 
 tumult goes on. The Queen, still with the babe clutched in her 
 arms, shoivs signs of trepidation. 
 
 Lord Murray — (Looking out of the Palace window.) 
 The English soldiers 
 Are at the palace gate. 
 Our only safety now lies in 
 My discovering Howard, 
 And pointing out to him our plight. 
 I will go forth to find Howard 
 And will soon return, 
 If I do not perish in the attempt. 
 
 Geraldyne look thou to the Queen and babe. (Exit Lord 
 Murray. Lady Geraldyne takes the Queen by the hand.) 
 
 Lady Murray — 
 
 Hasten, hasten, let us 
 
 Secrete ourselves in some secluded spot 
 
 And await Lord Murray's return with Howard. 
 
 God grant that Murray may find Howard, 
 
 If not, we are surely lost. 
 
 They go to a door and are driven hack. They try another 
 and are again driven back. They make several such athmpts, 
 being driven back each time. 8udde7dy the English soldiers 
 pour in, and come forward as if to fall upon the women, who 
 have by this time retA^ated to a corner. Lady Geraldyne Mur- 
 ray places the Queen and babe behind her and faces the soldiers. 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — 
 
 Are you men, or craven blood thirsty brutes, 
 To fall upon a defenceless w^oman and her babe? 
 Look at yon babe; you were once babes yourselves 
 And nestled softly on your mothers' breast. 
 
Mary de Lorraine and her infant daughter "Mary Queen of 
 Scots." (Miss Clara Evvard.) 
 
—59— 
 
 And now you lift your arms to strike a mother down. 
 
 Shame on you! Shame on you! 
 
 Are you English soldiers, whose warrior fame 
 
 Hast spread all over Europe? 
 
 Whose invincible arms did mow down like grass 
 
 The French soldiers at Poietiers and at Agincourt? 
 
 You! The sons of those warriors great! 
 
 They would turn them in their graves, for very shame, 
 
 To see you, foul craven beasts, 
 
 'No soldiers, worthy of such great sires. 
 
 Lifting your arms against babes and women, 
 
 Back, I say, back every one of you, cowards, dogs, 
 
 Fie ! Fie ! On you ! For very shame. 
 
 English Soldiers — 
 
 Smite them down, smite them down, they revileth us. 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — 
 
 I call you what you are, foul beasts of prey, 
 
 With nothing sacred in your eyes: 
 
 Tliat would batten upon the blood of such innocence. 
 
 Look you, at that babe, men, 
 
 Then look upon this mother. 
 
 You could not find it even in your hearts. 
 
 To use your cruel weapons against them, 
 
 That is, if you are men. 
 
 If you must have the blood of a woman, 
 
 Then strike this breast. 
 
 But spare this woman and her babe. 
 
 But woe be it to English soldiers. 
 
 That dare strike Howard's kin. 
 
 Or the Queen of Scotland, 
 
 Or this fair babe, her child. 
 
 English, Soldiers — 
 
 Listen not to her, strike them down, 
 
 Kill them, kill them, babe and all. 
 
 (The soldiers come toward them with uplifted swords %nd 
 arm^s.) 
 
—60— 
 
 Lord Howard — {Dashing in with Lord Murray.) 
 Stand back, stand back, you curs. 
 Would jou thus menace 
 Women and children? 
 
 You could not have misunderstood my orders. 
 That such man dies. 
 That dares to raise a hand. 
 Against a woman and a child. 
 And you have threatened 
 The life of Sccotland's Queen, 
 And yon prattling babe. 
 And this my kinswoman, too. 
 The Lady Geradyne Murray. 
 Who was it that saith, "Kill them?" 
 I heard the fell saying, 
 As I dashed in at the door; 
 Throw down your arms. 
 Let them heap upon the floor: — 
 Here, Provost, Ho! Ho! 
 {The provost enters with his guard.) 
 Take these men outside the castle gate. 
 Place them against the city's walls. 
 And before the eyes of the populace 
 Dispatch them forthwith; 
 Let the people know how Howard 
 Doth deal with those who would 
 Destroy women and children. 
 Let none ask of me for mercy. 
 For he that mercy asks for such a crime. 
 Shall himself no mercy receive. 
 But shall quickly be put to death. 
 
 TU^ English Soldiers — {Kneeling.) 
 Mercy, my Lord, mercy. 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 For mercy; you cravens prate, 
 
 You wouldst not, just now, yourselves 
 
 Show mercy to these defenceless women, 
 
—61— 
 
 And this poor sleeping babe, 
 
 There is no mercy for such as you. 
 
 Neither on earth, nor in heaven, 
 
 Away with them: — (The provost and his guards, having 
 
 hound the condemiied soldiers, lead thern aivay.) 
 
 My noble Geraldyne, do but thou arise, 
 
 And lead the Queen back along with thee, 
 
 {Lady Geraldyne restores the Qween to the throne.) 
 
 I have sad news to tell you all — 
 
 King James the V, of Scotland, 
 
 Is now no more. 
 
 He lieth now in cold death 
 
 At Falkland, for these three days. 
 
 And thy three sons. 
 
 The last of Murray's noble race, 
 
 Lie slain upon the field of Solway Moss 
 
 With ten thousand rotting corpses. 
 
 And no search has yet discovered them. 
 
 They have gone to their death for Scotland. 
 
 Lady Geraldyne Murray — 
 Woe is me ! Woe is me ! 
 Woe, indeed, it is, 
 Five of my sons, 
 All that I have borne. 
 
 Have now gone down to death for Scotland. 
 Woe is me ! That I did thus fore-see 
 Scotland struck in such misery: 
 I call upon Heaven, and upon 
 All you stem soldiers here. 
 And upon my noble Lord Howard, 
 To witness that Geraldyne Murray 
 And her good husband, the Lord Murray here. 
 The most loyal man that ere 
 Did draw the breath of life. 
 Hath done their duty 
 To Scotland and to its King, 
 
 And the King, too, has gone to death in this disaster, 
 Unheedful of the warnings 
 
—62— 
 
 That we so often gave. 
 
 Lord Howard — 
 
 King James, being now no more, 
 
 This prattling babe becomes his heir. 
 
 I have "letters patent" here 
 
 From mj Royal master of England, 
 
 To proclaim the babe 
 
 The Queen of Scotland, 
 
 And to cause all men to know, 
 
 That around this babe and her Royal mother, 
 
 Henry hath placed his protecting mantle. 
 
 Geraldyne, do thou lift up the child, 
 
 Swear all present fealty, 
 
 To the Princess Mary, 
 
 Who is to reign Mary Queen of Scots. 
 
 {All present lifting up swords.) 
 
 We swear. 
 
 THE END. 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
 
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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
 
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