Class P5l^\5.v Author Title Imprint CATALOGUE OF PLAYS FOR SALE BY WILLIAM V. SPENCER, 1-38 WASHINGTON STREET, COU. OF WATER STREET, BOSTON. Price 1-2 1-2 cents each. Sent free of postage to any part of the United States. As like as two Peas Aggravating Sara Antonio Author, The Adeline Ali Pacha Alonzo the Brave Anything,' New Agnes de Vere Adopted Child Apostate As You Like It All that Glitters Abon Hassan Avalanche Aladdin All in the Dark Anatomist Agreeable Surprise All for Love Bachelor's Bedroom Black-Eyed Susan Bamboozling Barrack Room Blue Devils Born to good Luck Box and Cox Box and Cox Married and Settled Brutus Bombastes Furioso Bottle '1 he Boots at the Swan Buckstone's Adventure.- &c Bona Fide Travellers Bridal The Bertram Beautj' and the Beast Bloomer Costume Begone dull Care Brazen Drum Brother and Sister Ben Bolt Breach of Promise Bottle Imp Black Bectrd. Blind Bagain. Beacon The Brian Boroihme, Bee Hive Courier of Lyons Comfortable Service Crockery's Misfortune Conez Comedy of Errors Clari Charles II " XII Clandestine Marriage Coi'sican Brothers ("ure for tlie Heartache Curj f.-r Liive Catspaw The Critic 'ihe Civilization Chimney Piece Capt. of the Watch Cocknies in California Cherry and Fair Star Curfew ihe Carbineer Drama at Home Dumb Girl of Genoa Dri^am ai Sea Debcorand Creditor Delusion The Dumb B. die Tha Deaf as a Post Dead Shot Don Ceusar de Bazan Day after the Wedding Drunkard The Duenna The Delicate Ground Damon and Pytduas Douglas Devil to Pay Double Bedded Room Day in Paris Did you ever send your Irish Ambassador Good for Nothing Good little Wife Good Night's Rest Garrick Fever The Gissippus Golden Farmer Hamlet Hunchback The Haymarket Spring Meet- ing Honeymoon The Heir at Law How to pay the Rent His last Legs High life below Stairs High, low. Jack and the Game Heads or Tails Happy Man Highland Reel High Life below Stairs Helping Hands Heart of Mid Lothian Idiot Witness sh Assurance Ingomar I Ion Wife, &C E-meralda Earl of Essex jElphi Bey Eton Boy The 'Evadue Elder Brother iEUa Roseuburg j First of April Fortress of Sorrento From Village to Court Fish dut of Water False and Constant Falk of Clyde Forest Rose The First Night " Flying Dutchman Fazio Follies of a Night I Forest of Bondy i Faint Heart I Feudal 'limes (Floating Beacon I Flight to America Good Run for it. (iame of Romps (iuslavus III (iuttle and Gulpit Gamester The Geo. Barnwell Attorney j " Lion i " Tutor I Iron Chest ! Invisible Prince Is he Jealous Inkle and Yairco John Di Procida [Jenny Lind jJohn Bull Jack Sheppard ! Jealous Wife The I Jacobite The jjulius Ca?sar iJane Shore 'John Jones !King Lear " John I " Henry IV I u u VIII jKiss in the Dark King of the Commons Katharine and Petrucio Kill or Cure Lestoque Lo Zingaro Luke Somertori I Lottery Ticket I Limerick Boy The La Tour de Nesle Grandfather Whitehead Ladies Beware (iuv Mannering Leap Year The Grfmshaw, Ba<,'>-ha\v and Lawyers Ihe Bradshaw ' Lend me five Shillings (lo to beil I'oin jLady of the Lake Tf.n of the ^hove Ur One Dollar. SPEEER'S BOSTON THEATRE,. . .NEW SERIES. . .No. XXXII. THE PEOPLE'S LAWYER, A COMEDY IN TWO xVCTS. BY J; S:'JONES, ESQ., Autlior of " Siege of Boston," " Old Job and Jacob Grey,'* '• Cai-pcuter of Rouen," " Capt. Kidd," &g., &c. WITH OTHGfXAL CASTS, COSTUMES, SCEN'E AND rnOFEKTY PLOTS, AND ALL THE STAGE I'.USINESS. B O S 1 O N : W I I. L I A ^.I V. S P E N O E I^ , 12S Wasiiington, corner of "Watei' St. 1 8 o G . -2 H.W ^ « fs 1: < o So w M »5 3 q o^ 5 W 5 « & H « F^ OQ . g w" & W £2 W ' o a) 3 0|J 3 ^ K H M S I g5 O „ PEOPLE'S LAWYER. SCENERY. ACT I. Scene 1. — Counting room (2d story,) 3 and o g — doors open backed by interior of loft — strips on flats with pegs in it to hang hats on. Scene 2.— Street 1 o. Scene 3.-2 D plain 3 o. QUICK DROP DOWN. ACT II. Scene 1. — 2 D plain 3 g. Scene 2. — Court Street 1 o. Signs on flats r and l. Scene 3. — Court house i g — Judge's bench raised on r h 2 a Clerk's bench in front of judge's — sheriff's box 1 o r h. Wit- ness box R H c 3 e — prisoner's box l c 1 g— jury seats c 3 g. Scene 4. — Court street I o. Scene 5. — Handsome drawing room 3 g — set fire-place 3 b LH. PEOPERTIES, PROPERTIES. ACT 1 , Scene 1. — High desk on r h 2 e Tvitli pens, inkstand, paper and ledgers. Iron safe on r ii 3 e containing ledgers and Tbooks. Key of safe. Stools at desk r and l. High desk on L H 3 E with pens, inkstand, papers, ledgers, and a loaded re- volver. Lighted candles on the desks, or hanging gas burners from ceiling. Table on l h covered with green cloth — on it, bundle of letters folded and tied round with red tape — ink- stand, writing paper, stamps, wafer box and wafers;- pens and lighted candle, dry good's case on r h. Barrels and cases of goods behind c d — 2 office chairs on r and l. Blank paper and paper cap for Howard. Bunch of store keys for John. A large bladder, inside a small bag containing bank notes for Shingle, and a pair of spectacles. China and wood crash c D R H. Burnt cork and some flour c d r n for Shingle. Scene 2.— Cart whip for Shingle. Scene 3. — Covered table on r h — on it, pens, ink and writ- ing paper, handsome drawings, and books — 2 chairs on r n. Handsome harp on r h c. Covered table on l h — on it, books nd ornaments — 2 handsome chairs oul h. Gold watch, chain and seals for Eilsley. Note with bank note enclosed forHow- ard, — 2 canes for Quirk and Thompson. ACT II. Scene 1. — Properties set same as scene 3 Act 1. No harp on. Blank letter for Grace — tAVO small pistols for Howard. Scene 2— Scene 3. — Two raised long benches on c 3 e. Table with pens, ink and paper for clerk. Lawyer's long table on l h with four inkstands, pens, paper and documents tied with red PKOPERTIES — COSTI-JIE, V tape — eight cliairs at lawyer's table — two cliairs in prisoner's box — indictment for clerk. Wand in sheriff's box — two staffs for officers. Gold watch, chain and seals for officer — (same as Charles had in Act 1.) Written paper for Tripper — two long benches for witnesses on l h 3 e — one long bench on up and down stage l ir. SCEXE 4. — Scene o. — Handsome table on k n with rich ornaments and books. Handsome table on l n with two handsome vases of flowers — sofa in c — harp on r h — (same as used in Act 1,) two ottomans on r and lh — stand with shovel, poker, &c., at fire- place L H. COSTUME. Solon Shingle. — Dark drab old fashioned surtoot with capes. Shecps grey trowsers — lead colored striped vest — old style black stock — cow-hide boots — broad brimeed low crowned hat. Bald headed flaxen wig. Other characters costume of the present day. 1*^ PEOPLE'S LAWYER. ACT. I. SCENE I. — A counting room, opening into a loft — in which is seen barrels, cases, ^-c, — a desk on n. h. Desk on l. h. 3e. table and chairs onh., a dry goods case near the desk, R. h. — an iron safe. Door center. Charles Otis discovered at R. h. desk writing, enter Mr. Trijjper c. D. L. H. Trip. Mr. Winslow lias not yet returned, Mr. Otis ? — Gha. I have not seen him, sir. He has not been in the counting room since my return. Trip. Is Mr. Ellsley in the store ? Cha. No sir, but he soon will be in sir — continuing writing. Trip. Smart young man is that, Ellsley. He -will one day be a rich man ; I think, however, you are the favorite with Mr. Winslow. Cha. I am happy to enjoy the confidence of my employer, and it shall be my constant effort to deserve it. Trip. Say to Mr. Winslow that I called, and if he wishes to see me, I shall remain an hour at my lodgings. Cha. I will sir — [^Tripper Exits c. D. L. n. — passing John Ellsley, tvho enters at the same time from c. l. h.] John. Charley, where's the old man ? Cha. I don't know. John. Do you know who that man was that just went out ? Cha. Mr. Winslow's attorney. He has been compliment- ing you. John. Has he ? Fra glad of it — I wish I could raise the 8 PEOPLE S LAW YEP., wind somewhere ; or Lawyer Tripper, or some other lawj'er, will bejoggiiig my memory, I'm afraid. I must take the benefit of the act, Charley — how much do you think I spent last week ? Cha. I cannot guess, I heard you say that you had been ex- travagant. John. A cool hundred — sleigh rides, balls &c., hot suppers do melt up the cash. But you know nothing about it, you won't go in for a bit of fun. Cha. I cannot aiford it, you know it. John. Did'nt I offer to stand the blunt. It would not have cost you a red cent. Cha. Pleasures that I cannot afford to pay for, I cannot in- dulge in at the expense of others. John, there is one thing I do not understancl. Tell me how can clerks with small sala- ries spend so much money in imitating the habits of men of fortune ? you may indulge — your father is rich. Johi. Why Charley, my boy, it is not the salary the clerk depends upon, so much as his perquisites. They tell the story. Cha. Perquisites ! John. Yes, the self given privilege of investing the cash balances — helping themselves when they find themselves short, and their employers with something over. Cha. Stealirg? John. Stealing ! that's the name of the science of abstrac- tion ; even, if a fellow is so unlucky as to be found out ; men who spend for tlieir own purposes, funds entrusted to their care, are not called thieves, but defaulters — not stealing, Charley, but financiering. Well, how much longer are you going to stay, working here by candle-light? I shall close my books. Cha. Mr. Winslow requested me to stay till he returned, as I must be hex'e, I prefer work to idleness. John. You are a favorite of the old man's — I think the old man is in love with your pretty sister ; if he should marry her, and take you in as a partner, how you would flourish. Cha. l)on't interrupt me, now. John. There's a great ball to-night, and that pretty Miss Blazon is to be there ; I am going, and the way I'll take the shine out ofi' of some of the boys will be high. I shan't go till nine Charley, if Mr. Winslow wants me — I wish you'd go, I'll get you a ticket. Cha. I cannot go, I have no wish to go. John. You need not tell the old man that I am going to a ball. He's too religious to believe in dancing. We clerks know a thing or two ; and sometimes hear our master's voices people's LiWYER. iJ through thin partitions, in places that tliey don't carry their wivesr I mean to publish a book — call it the Clerk's Guide, to show young men'from the country how to forget ploughing, j)lanting, sowing, hociag, and mowing. Well, Charley, if you v/on't go, I. will ; I shall go out tlie back way ; leave a key for me, I may Avaut to come into the store after the ball is over. I'll have a night of it ; good bye, Charley. Exit c. R. h. Cha. {Coynes funoard) X night 0^ \i. IIo knows not of my poverty, or he would not have asked me to go to a ball, or wonder at my refusal. Daily sums of gold and silver pass through my hands, sufficient to purchase splendor and inde- pendence. Yet not mine. Nightly do I go to a home, Avherepov- verty is ever present, and distress may suddenly come with a temptation to use what is anothers, — The evil one shall not overcome me, I can bear my privations. I will be honest. Goes again to desk R. ii. Mr. Winsluw Enters, c. l. n. Win. Are you still here, Charles? Where is Mr. Ellsley? Cha. He has just left the store, sir. Win. I will not detain you long. I wish to speak to you on a subject of some importance. Has my attorney called '? Cha. He has, sir. Win. Charles, you recollect, I dare say, that some time since, Colonel Spencer gave me a check on the Bank of Mo- bile •? Cha. I recollect seeing him sign a check, but I thought it "was on a bank in the city. Win. No, 'twas the bank of Mobile, you remember he spoke of his extensive interest in it. Cha. He did speilk of a bank, but I still have an impres- sion that the check related to a bank here. Win. No doubt you think so, you are wrong— what are you doing now ? Cha. There's a trifling error in Mr. Ellsley's cash here, I'm trying to trace. Win. Never mind that now. This check is of consider- able consequence to me ; and I assure you it will be greatly to your advantage to remember rightly ; for should the matter be made the subject of a legal controversy, I must depend on 3'our knowledge to evidence the facts in the case. Colonel Spencer is dead — -I am apprehensive of trouble with his execur tors — just think again. Cha. I am thinking sir, but 10 people's lawyer. Win. The thing is undoubtedly coming to your mind as I represent it. Cha. My memory is somewhat confused on the subject ; but reflection, seems only to confirm my first impression. Win. •'Tis strange. By the way, Charles, your work is hard» I will raise your salary, another hundred dollars. To-mor- row, I believe, ends the quarter — take the advance. Cha. Sir, I thank you, I will deserve your bounty- Wi)i. But, about the check, you will have no objection to tell the good Jury of the Court — should we have a trial, that you f:aw Colonel Spencer give me a iNIobile check, signed by him ; remembering all the time, that in performing this little act of friendship, or I might say duty, you are materially benefitting yourself. C/ui. I will most cheerfully tell them all I know about it ; for I should be glad to convince 3'ou of my devotion to your interests. But not for worlds, would I testify to a circum- stance, of the truth of which Fm not positive. Win, Of course not — in this case you testify upon my word, should you make a small mistake, the blame be mine. The day may come, Charles, that will see you a partner in my establishment, as a reward for your devotion to my interests. There is profit and honor in connection with the name of Wins- low, the merchant ; think of it, Charles. Cha. I cannot, for my life, sir, speak aught but the truth. Win. The truth should not be spoken at all times ; my law- yer shall instruct you what to say. He will lead you to the proper answers. Cha. You have mistaken my character sir; a lie is a lie, disguise it as you may. I am young sir, but have not forgot- ten the precepts of my father, or the example of my mother. Win. Your conscience, young man, is of too tender a kind to aid you in the acquirement of wealth ; you are poor — this over honesty will keep you so. Cha. I own, I do feel the pangs of poverty— I have left this place of toil for a home, where no meal was ready to ap- pease the cravings of hunger ; a fireless hearth a mother with her children in tears, were my only welcome home. It was home, the home of honesty; and sooner shall this bo. l. Win. Fool ! [Seeing Howard, toho comes down, R. H.j You have listened to my conversation, sir? • How. Unwillingly sir, to your harsh reproof to your clerk, I come sir on business, will you give me im'nediatc answer to that proposition — [holding a paper^ — I called this morning — you was out. Win. (Reads.) "From the widow of Mr. Worthy" — T have but one answer — all that the law compels me to pay isready. I know my ground ; she has no money. I have ; the time that must elapse before a judgmeift can be given against me, with the expenses contingent upon the continuance of the suit, will force her to abandon her claim, you have my answer. Hoiv. And this is your answer. Do not deceive yourself Mr. Winslow, the battle is not always for the strong. I am instructed to inform you that the willow's claim will be de- fended by competent counsel, who Avill, if necessary, furnish the requisit funds. I speak upon the authority of one who never pleads except where he sees oppression preying upon poverty and innocence. Win. I know who you mean ; a demagogue, seeking political advancement, basing his ambitious views upon affected .cene- rosity and patriotism. The man they style the "Peojle's Lawyer," the people's friend. His services may be bought by my gold. I will retain him myself. Hote. His services cannot be bought, sir. I have perforn- ed my duty, and Avill return your reply ; as a humble cit - zcn, I may speak my thoughts. Hugh Winslow, do right ; though you pile heaps of gi)ld as stumbling blocks, in tbe path" of Justice, still will the righteous judgment overtake the evil doer. 12 people's lawyer. Win. Go, sir, uo longer iustilt me in my own house. I am determined. Ifoio. To do wrong. Win. Fellow, leave the place this instant, or I will throw you from a window to the street. How. I have little to fear from your threat, I will spare you the attempt ; I shun an affray sir, but will defend myself from any assault — you shall some day knotv 2cho lam, and be sor- ry for this in Justice. [^Eoiit c. L. ii. Win. So much for the education of the poor. Here is a common mechanic, bullying a gentleman in college style. I thought Charles Otis had been more pliant to my will; if I cannot have his testimony, I must make sure he's not used against me. His good name is his pride, his honesty his great defence ; Imust find means to blast this airy fabric ; EUsley has a rich father, he is profligate. I'll try him and at once. \ Sits at table v.. II. Solon Shingle Enters Centre. Sol. Squire VVinslow, how do you do ? I most broke my shanks on your stairs. Wi?i. InternqHed — (aside.) — Quite well, sir. Sol. I kinder conjured that your shop would be shut up, but I see'd a light through the winder, so I thought I'd come in. Win. "When did you come to town? [u-ri(inr/. Scl. I come this morning, bright and early — v.cil, how do matters and things stand with you, considerin. f Takes chair. Win. Much as usual, sir. \ Still u-riiing and betraying much embarrassment. Solon goes to table and looks over uriling.'] This is a private affair, Mr. Shingle. Sol. Jest so ; well, then, you don't keer about my reading on it. If I pester you any, jest say so ; I'll take the hint with- out the kick. Yfin. I'm happy to see you, but I wish you had come a lit- tle earlier ; if you can call tomorrow. Sol. Call {o-morrow — I shall be dreadful busy to-morrow. I'll wait till yoxi get through your pucker. I've got a case in court about a brindle cow ; and Squire L'ingle asked me how I was going tu sware, and I told him I should swarc like lightning agin him ; these are revolutionary times — my father fit in the revolution, that is, he druv a baggage wag- gon. rEOFIJi's LAWYER. 13 Wi7i. (aside.) What devil sent him hero now ? Sol. Mr. Wiuslow, you are the head horse in the temper- ance team, and as I — Wiri. You have some business with me ? Sol. Jest so, Mr. "Wiuslow — wliat's good to cure the mumps ? Win. Mr. Shingle, I am engaged this evening, on verj'^ par- ticular business, I am now going out and shall not return. Sol. Jest so, well ; my cattle are outside there — there's no danger on 'cm, is there "? Win. I presume not, what have you got to say ? Sol. I've got a little account agin your society, and I want tu know who foots it ? Win. Some other time I'll see about it — John, you may close the store, Mr. Otis has gone home. Mr. Shingle, urgent business compels me to leave you — come to-morrow. Wnidoiv Exits c. i\. Sol. Jest so — Goes iip to desJc n. h, fairs Ledger, sits dotcn, jmts on spccrjclci, and iriiJi nndle in one hand is reading — Jest so, {Reading) Cash Dr — Dr Cu^h, for lliiubarb A200() — what a dose. i)v Cash. He is a great doctor, he cuvese very disease. John the Porter enters — replaces hooks — Uoks out candles, having finished, he comes to Shingle. Sol. John, how duyoudu? John. Very well, sir — when you have done with that book, sir, I should like to put it in the case. Sol. Jest so, pretty writing, aiut it, now ? whose is it? John. Mr. Ellsley's, sir. Sul. The dogs it is ! Old Zack Ellsley's boy, John ? His father and I were old cronies, and between you and I, John Ellsley come pretty near being my son instead of Zack's. John. Indeed sir, how so ? John brings chair and sits next to him — Solon rests his leg on John's lap. Sol. How so ? Why, Zack and I courted the same gal, Patty Bigelow ; and she had Zack instead of me — if she had'nt gin me the bag, John Ellsley might have been John Shingle ; however my gal, Nabby, and John are going to get married. 14 people's lawyer. John. I want to shut up the store and go home. Sol. Jest so, well, take the light and see if my team has started. Jolm .1 can't spare the time, Mr. Shingle. Enter Ellsley, c. l. h. El. Where's Mr. Otis ? John. Gone home, sir. Mr. Winslow wants to see you at his house immediately. El. The devil he does ! I shall be too late for the hall, and I have no money, ah daddy Shingle, I'm glad to see you — what the devil sent him here ? Sol. How de do ? where 's Xabby ? El. Nabby, yes, — she's well. John go and tell Mr, Wins- low that J will come to him directly. I will shut up the store and bring you the key. John. Yes, sir — \_Gives him keys and Exits c. l. h. El. What does Winslow want with me to-night. Has he discovered the error in my account. Charles has made a mem- orandum; I will destroy that. {Goes iip to desk r. h. , finds paper left by Otis and tears it up, and puts the pieces in his pocket. Shingle has followed him about.^ Mr. Shingle, have you got any money ? Sol. No great amount in value. El. I want fifty dollars. The key of the safe is not here. I'll give an order on my father for it. Sol. You shall have it, as you are going tu marry my dar- ter. Takes out a very large bladder, inside of which is the bag with Bank Notes. There's the money. El. (Has written the order at table L. H.) Thank ye sir. (hands Shingle the paper, and takes the bills) this must replace the sum I spent last night. Mr. Shingle, just be kind enougli to go into the loft, and bring me a small case, you will find there. 'Tisa present for Nabby, a very small case. Sol. (Having read the order, ^'c, lights a candle.) A very small case, John. [Exit c. l. ii. El. What the devil sent that old fool here this time of night? I wish he would fall through the scuttle — now for it ( Opens the safe and deposits the money.) All safe for tliis time ; now to know what Mr. Winslow wants. [Crash heard c.d. e. h. Sol. (without, c. T). R. n.) Hollo, Mr. Ellsley ! the light's people's lawyer, 15 gone out. [Enter c. d. p.. h.] I can't find no very small casd there. (Be is all over lamp black and flow.) El. What have you been about ? Sol. I went tu reach upon a shelf, the light went out, my foot slipped and El. Lamp black and whiting fell upon you. Sol. Jest so, but I did'nt find the case. El. That's not strange, as there is none there — (aside.) I advise you to take a warm bath. This way— I'll show you the way. [Exitc.D.L. Sol. Don't be so pesky quick, (Solon goes up to desk l. h. and examines it, and finds a revolver — takes it ou% looks at it) What on earth is this, &c., &c. (Re-enters Elldey c. l. h. slaps him on the shoulder— ^tlie pistol goes off. Scene closes quick. SCENE. 11.—^ Street 1 g.— Night— Robert Howard Enters in a Blue Cloak, followed by a man R. h. 1. e. How. Be sure that Thompson follows the directions I have given ; remember that I do not wish it known, that I am in the city. — (Man Exits, l. h. 1 e.) She is indeed, a charm- ing girl — I blushed for the unfeeling senseless blocks that treated her thus rudely ; however, good may come out of it; in my disguise, I shall try her affections, though I cannot doubt the purity of her heart, in any situa- tion or under any ci'ial. My friends may deride my low born bride — but she may decline my offer when 'tis made. If I do get a wife, I am determined it shall be my personal attrac- tions, however slight their value, that shall win her, — FU make the trial. \_Solon outside k. h. Sd. Whoa, there, buck ! go along ! whoa, darn your skins ! run will you ? I'll make you step out ! (Enter Solon 1 e. r. How. What's the matter, friend ? Sol. Them cattle of mine are acting like fried snakes, they ain't used to staying out late nights. Hoio. Why, Mr. Shingle, is this you ? Sol. Jest so, Mr, Howard ; can you tell me a good tavern tu go tu, and put up the darnd critters. I went tu Mr. Winslow, just now, on business, and I left my cattle afore the door, and IG PEOrLE's LAWYER. while I was gone, somebody's gal, over the way, begun tu play on the pianuer, and that got satan into my team tu look in an see what made the music — and when I come out, I found the cattle all over the side-walk trying tu get into the winder. Huiv. I am sorry for your trouble ; I will show you a good place to jjut up for the night. Sol. I know you would, I'm always unlucky when I come to the city — I'm on law business, too. ILnv. Indeed ! Sol. Yes, I wonder who is the best lawyer tu go tu, on a cow case ? Squire Dingle offered to leave it out, if I'd gin him ten dollars — there's my cattle dancing agin — they don't know city fashions! whoa! darn ye, Buck. IIuic. Come, sir, shall I show you a house for your accom- modation ? It is late. SjI. Jest so, I'm goin intu a bath, head and heels ; then I'll see you. Whoa! there! &c., &c. \_E.ut r. 1 h. SCENE III. — A plain Apartment, table iv/'th ornaments, on l. h. 2 chairs on R. h. 2 chairs on l. h. table on R. H., on it draio- ngs and books, a Harp, on R. c. Grace Enters 1 e. l. h. takes off her bonnet and shawl placing them on a chair R. H. Enters Mrs. Otis 1 E. R. H. Mrs. 0. Grace, what detained you so long? I was alarmed ; you are weeping ! Grace. L. h. Am I? Mrs. 0. What his happened Grace? Grace. Have the rich no feelings, or do they suppose the poor have no hearts ? Mother, my blood hath run as moulten lead through my veins. Mrs. 0. Did you not see the lady that advertised for the drawings ? Grace. I did see the lady, — I was shown into a room where were assembled a large party of the lady's friends, my threadbare dross, was the mark for their ridicule, and' their glasses were leveled at it. I blushed for the things, wearing PEOdLB'fJ LAWYER. 17 the forms of men, that could thus cruelly insult a female for her poverty. I shall hate the rich. Mrs. 0. They are not all alike, my child. Grace. I conquered my feelings, and calmly walked to the table to display my drawings. jVs they passed from hand to hand, the lady asked her daughter what she thought of them : in most contemptuous terms she replied — they looked like my first attempt. My heart was bursting with suppressed emo- tion, when a voice, in manly tones, replied to her — " Then your first attempts were very beautiful, and I advise your mother to collect tliem immediately." But for this kind re- lief I should have fixlkn on the floor. Mrs. Germain will send what she thinks the pictures worth. Mrs. 0. Don't weep, Grace. Ought we longer to keep that harp? our best friends have hinted that so valuable a piece of furniture looks like extravagance in our humble dwelling. Grace. Don't ask me to part with that, the only present from my dear father. I wish I knew who the gentleman was, that spoke for me, at Mrs. Germain's — I owe him double thanks. 3Irs. 0. Did you not see him ? Grace, I did not — Charles Otis Enters, pale and dejected, 1 e. l. h. Mrs. 0. Are you ill, Charles? Gha. No, mother, I am well. I have been strangely tempt- ed to be dishonest, and rich. Mrs* 0. And you resisted ? Cha. I did mother, I did resist — but Heaven knows it may be the ruin of us all. Mr. Winslow has discharged me from his service. J//-S. 0. Discharged you, for what ? Glia. Because I would not lie. 3Irs. 0. You have done well. Cha. Mother, was my father an honest man ? Mrs. 0. Who doubts it ? Cha. Mr. Wiuslow in his rage at my refusal to do his wicked will, called me the base son of a baser father — 'twas in my mind to kill him for the word, but I forebore. Mrs. 0. He uttered falsehood, Charles ; your father's in- flexible honesty was a bar to his specious plans for wealth. Grace. ( Who has been at the Uarp, comes doivn R. h.) Mother, wo must sell tlie Ilarp. 18 PEOPLE^a LAWYER. 3[rs. 0. Grace, Charles has had no supper. Be composed, the storm of diversity is a gathering over our heads, ^tis true, but there is a power above, that can dispel the clouds, and make all sunshine and brightness. [^Both Exit r. h. Cha. (A knock heard at door^ 1 e. l. h.) Come in. {Enter Ellsley) John, is that you ? El. Yes, I have just heard that we are to lose you ; I was going to the ball, but as soon as I heard of your quarrel with Winslow, I hastened to see you. Cha. Quarrel, we have had no quarrel. El. 'Tis the same thing — Pm sorry to lose your society. Mr. Winslow will be sorry too, before long — and that reminds me of a secret I want you to help me keep. Cha. I don't like secrets, they are apt to make mischief, El. Not if they are well kept ; this will hurt nobody : now promise not to reveal what I am going to tell you. Cha. I do. El. Then here [taking out watch and chain'] here is the eye- tooth of our hard hearted master. Cha. Why, John, it cannot be possible that you have realy practised EL Hocus-pocus you mean? agrimento, presto, cockolorum, change, as the juggler's say ; nothing truer, master by this time has missed his time keeper. He will suspect me, and I want you to keep it, till the first fuss is over, then you shall have half its worth. Oha. Not for the world — take it back, John, to Mr. Wins- low — confess your fault. He will forgive you, I will not re- ceive it. El. Do you think that I am an Idiot — take this back and ask forgiveness of a man whose creed is revenge ? No, if you refuse, I must take my chance. He has wronged you, and if you had any spirit, you would set fire to his store, or in some way, make him feel your revenge. Cha. If you ever mention such things to me again, we cease to be friends. EL I did this thing for you ; at any rate, you will not be- tray me. Cha. I have given my word, and you must return the pro- perty. EL I do ; what way shall I return it and save myself a mortifying acknowledgment ? Cha. Write a confession. I would. PEOPLE^d LAWYRK. 19 El. Do it for me, Charles, will you ? Gha. I will, with pleasure — {Sits down at the table on e. h. and lorites — Ellsley, looking over him, slips the watch and chain in- to Charlese's pocket.) El. This will make all right, Charles ; I am sorry I entered into the business ; but as I have begun I must finish. Cha, There John, that is enough. El. Nothing could be better, keep it for me, until the morning ; I am going to the ball, in the dance I might drop it ; mind, Charles, you let no person see it. Cha. It shall be sacred — {takes the paper, folds it, and puts it into his pocket.) El. Thank you ; Charles, good night, I am sorry you can't come to the ball. Cha. Good night, John. \_Exit Ellsley 1 e. l. h. Grace Enters. 1 e. r. h. Grace. Charles, your supper is ready, 'tis not an inviting meal. Mrs. Otis Enters e. h. 1 e. Mrs. 0. Charles, what did John Ellsley want with you ? I never liked that young man. Cha. A friendly injunction of secrecy is imposed upon me. Grace, I have no appetite for food. {A knock at the door, 1 e. L. H.) Come in. Howard Enters 1 e. l. h. as a workman. How. Mrs. Otis, I have a note from Mrs. Germain to your daughter. 3Irs. 0. {Taking it.) Grace, read it. Grace. { Opens and Reads — Howard observing Charles at the table.) ' • Mrs. Germain begs Miss Otis to accept the enclosed bank note — upon a second examination of her drawings, she is pleased to say, she discovered their beauties, and will feel obliged if Miss Otis, will permit her to select from her collec- tion still undisposed of." Mrs. 0. Well, Grace, that is kind after all. Grace. Will you say to Mrs. Germain, I am gratified for her notice and kind enclosure. Hmv. I will do so Miss Otis, in your own words. 20 PLOrLE's LAWYER Grace. That voice, 'tis he that saved me, mother, can it be. Sir, accept my thanks for your timely assistance tliis evening, I should have acknowledged the obligation at the door, but my escape, and the cii-cumstances embarrassed me. Hoiv. I am repaid, Miss Otis, and regret the cause that needed a manly arm to protect, in the street of a city, a help- less woman from insult. I am most proud that from me the succor came. Cha. "What insult was this. IIoio. A drunken brawler, that annoyed your sister on her return from Mrs. Germain's. 'Twas my fortune to be near, and it required a blow to convince him that he was a brute. Cha. Sir, I thank you for my sister, though we are stran- gers, I trust I may know you better. Grace. 'Tis the voice of the gentleman — Sir — do you know — I mean — seen — Mrs. Germain? Mrs. 0. But for your appearance, my daughter had thought, she met you at Mrs. Germain's. IIoio, Appearance ! I am what I appear ; a mechanic ! I have learned my trade. I have, in this capacity, served Mrs. Germain, and shall be glad to work for your family. Still I lose not, I trust, my right to the title of gentleman, because my hands are hardened by labor. Mrs. 0. She is in error — you speak not like a mechanic — one bred to toil ; but have more the manner of one that has studied in the halls of science. IIoiv. What should hinder the son of toil, when genius stim- ulates, from acquiring the highest fund of knowledge that science gives. Our country is a free one, and education flows from the public fountain for all who thirst for its refreshing streams. Good night. {Is going — a loud knock 1 is. l. h. shall I open the door ? — Mrs, 0. If you please. \_IIoward opens the door. 1 e l h. Thompson and Quirk Enters 1 E. L. h, Tho. Which is Charles Otis ? Cha. I am the person. Tho. Then sir, you are my prisoner. Clia. Prisoner ? Tho. Yes sir, to execute our duty, we must search your person. PEOrLE's LAWYER. 21 Chd. stand off, would you treat me as a thief? Tho. A charge of theft is alledged against you. Hoiv. Young man, offer no resistance to the officers in the discharge of their duty. Cha. I have a paper entrusted to my cai-e, which they must not see. IIoio. Give it to me. Gixice and Mrs. 0. Charles, what does this mean ? Quirk takes the lontch from the pocket of Charles. Tho. The property described in the warrant is here. {Shows icatch. Cha. I am innocent. Grace. How comes the watch in your possession ? Cha. I know not what this means. 2\'io. Sir, 1 demand to see that paper. How. Is that your bi'other's writing? Grace. It is. Charles explain this. (Tloivard after reading, hands paper to Thoinjyson.) Mrs. 0. Charles Otis, am 1 the mother of a thief? Have I endured the stings of want, to rear a felon ! speak — if you are guilty, may you fall dead at my feet ! Clta. Mother, I am not guilty. 3rrs. 0. I believe you. JIow. So do I. Winslotc Enters, 1 e. l. h. Win. I do not. (Thompson ha7ids pa]->er to Winslow.) Why is not that thief in prison? Madam, he is like his father. By death he escaped my vengeance, so shall not the son. Cha. Speak of me as you wall, assail not the good name of my father. I am innocent. Win. A jury's verdict will satisfy me better than your words — away with him. IIoiv. Go not too far, Mr. Winslow, Win. What I do here, is no concern of yours. JIoiv. I may choose to make it so. Win. To prison with him. A virtuous family is here. Cha. Slanderous villain! (Grace and Mrs. Otis holding him.) Hold me not — 22 PEOPLE^S LAWYER. Charles seizes a chair and is in the act of striking Winslow, whe?-. Howard interferes. TABLEAU. quick drop . Mrs. Otis. Charles. Grace. Howard. Winslow. ACT n. SCENE I. — Same as last scene of Act 1st, except there is no Harp on. Grace discovered — in her hands aji open letter which she is reading. Mrs. Otis Enters, l. h. 1 e. Grace. So soon returned, mother? Mrs. 0. Yes child. I have seen Charles. The lawyer gives me but little hope, circumstances are so strong against him, and Mr. Winslow urges the trial. Grace. Who purchased the harp ? 3Irs. 0. A stranger. I saw Kobert. He assures me that Charles will be acquitted. Grace. Then there is hope. Should Eobert call, in my ab- sence, I will soon return — \_As Grace is going l. h., Enters Wins- sloto, 1 E. L. H. Win. Do not leave the room, Miss Otis, I have something to say, which I wish you to hear. Grace. Excuse me, sir. Win. I may be of service to you. (Grace turning aioay.) Madam, in my zeal to bring the guilty to punishment, I may have gone too far. If you wish your son's release, it maybe well to listen. Mrs. 0. Well, sir, be seated, we may listen. \_AIL seated, Winslow in centre. Win. It is needless for me to allude to the peril which Charles is now in, or for me to mention your praise-worthy efforts in his defence, I have heard that you have disposed of part of your furniture to enable you to retain the services of a lawyer. Grace, (r. h.) Sir, you will spare our feelings, by confining your conversation to that which we do not know so well. My mother has reproved you, she is unable to bear calmly our mor- tifying and painful situation. people's lawyee. 23 Win. I came in friendship, I wish not to wound your feelings, you deem me, I know not why, your enemy — why is this so ? Grace. Go to my brother's cell, ask that innocent boy, torn from home, confined with thieves, ruffians, and murderers, hardened in crime, and amid the clank of chains — listen to his answer. Win. I can save him from the verdict which will for years doom him to the horrors of a prison. I alone can save him, there is a way, I can point that way. Mrs. 0. Save my child, and buried be all former wrongs, forgotten present feelings. Grace. Save my brother and Heaven will reward you. Win. I look for the reward here. Grace. The means of his deliverance, sir? do not deceive us, the means ? Win. I am the prosecutor — with my concurrence there are many ways, a principal witness may be absent — I will not ap- pear against him. 3Irs. 0. This is evading Justice, and may fail. Win. Let him be convicted and appeal to another tribunal ; I will assert my belief that he is not guilty, and be myself his bail ; then send him in one of my vessels on a foreign voyage, to convince the world I believe him honest and shield him from punishment. Grace. I am ignorant of the forms of law, but the princi- ples of justice are deeply rooted here. I do not approve of your proposed means. Flight implies guilt. His good name is tarnished, mother ; his country's verdict can alone wash clean the stain. Win. So shall it be ; your scruples are those of virtue, and they please me. I know he is innocent. I would have it ap- pear so. 3Irs. 0. With the feelings of a mother strong within me, I would welcome any means that gives Charles his liberty. Grace. I must go to him, and comfort him, in his affiicfcion. Win. Stay, Miss Otis, if we both construe alike our thoughts, I may share your distresses and relieve them ; again I tender you my hand, which if you take, you take my wealth, and your brother's safety. Grace. I must decline the hand ; I could not accept, if my hfe depended upon the act ; there are reasons, sir, even if my in- dication. 24 TEOrLE's LAWYER. Win. Reasons ! Madam, advise your daugliter, you know lier; you knoAV me, much depends upon her answer. Mrs. 0. Her acts are free. I cannot bias her in such a choice. Grace. Mr. Winslow, I once before answered such a ques- tion. I am now betrothed to Win. Do I understand that you now reject me. 3frs. 0. Not so harshly, sir, Grace. Win. The form of Avords affects not me ; if you doreject me, your brother is a convicted thief ere the sun sets — will your new lover marry the sister of a sentenced felon — who is he ? answer me. Rnoard Enters. 1 e. l. h. Hoio. He is here, sir, and will answer for himself. Win. Indeed, a powerful rival ! a poor mechanic dares to thwart the wi.-^hes of a merchant I Have a cai'e, sir, or I Avill ►prove you an accomplice in crime, with the one whose cause you espouse ! How. Sir, I know you — the difference of our positions in so- ciety gives me no cause of fear. Win. ]Miss Otis, I congratulate you on your proposed al- liance with this vago.bond — JLnc. Vagabond, sir — {Sinillng.) Win. Vagabond, yes, I repeat the word — who are you ? Mar- ry him, Lady Otis — he is your brother's friend — the champion of a thief, himself no better. Mrs. 0. You are a brave man, sli% thus to inflict abuse upon two helpless women. I envy you not the delicacy of feeling you possess. Win. There is the defender of the virtue of the name of Otis ; let him redress jour grievance's — why does he not answer for himself and you ? HoiL-. I make no hasty answers, to angi-y men's words of passion ; my answer will come, and like the thunder of Heaven, it shall silence your voice of impotence— my tongue in this pre- sence shall not speak your proper name. Win. Beware how you glance at my character, speak if you dare aught against me. Grace. For Heaven's sake, Robert, let him not anger you. Win. Spii-itles'S hind ! even the weapon of sp?ech he dare no longer use. How dare you, sir, hint aught against me. people's lawyer, 26 Hnic. Go on, sir. Win. Retreat sir, or witli a blow, I will chastise you. How. Vent your rage in words, and I will hear it, raise your arm to strike, and in mine own defence I stand — beware the consequences — no child's strength is here. Grace. Robert, i\Ir. Howard. Win. A word with you. Here are the weapons gentlemen use, even in encounters with those beneath them. [Produces pii^foh.] To chastise you, I will raise you to my level. I talk not of vulgar blows. Mrs. 0. This is my house, commit no murder here. Win. If the ladies will withdraw, I will settle with the cow- ard. IIo7c. Coward — do not hold my hand, madam : stand from be- fore him. I have listened to his insulting language — but for your presence, T had shown him that he was biit man, and I his equal. Leave us. He dare not die in any cause ; I promise that no blood shall be spilled. Grace. You promise that ? Jlhtc. I do. 3Trs. 0. Robert, be not I'ash. Grace. He has pi'oniised. Mother, come. [Exeunt Grace and Mrt: Otis p. h. 1 e. How. We are alone sir — The right of choice by the barbar- ous code, which govern's men in their misnamed honortible meet- ings, is mine. If in this act I engage, I break my country's law and heaven's ; you say I hare wronged you, I will give you satisfaction ; give me a weapon. ( Winslow gives him a pistol.) Now, sir, prove your manly spiri t; give me your hand, we are stran- gers ; now breast to breast, I fight you thus. Fire, if you dare, I give you the word — Fire ! Win. Hold, this is murder. Ho(c. Indeed, give me your weapon and talk of courage and honor elsewhere. I ask from you no degrading appology ; you must respect me. I ask no more from friend or foe. Win. Sir, I will take early opportunity to convince you sir, what I dare do. 111 have revenge for this.] Aside and exit 1 e l h. How. 'Tis well. I know the limits of his power. 3Irs. Otis and Grace Re-enter B. h. 1 e. Grace. I am glad he is gone. Mrs. 0. I hope Robert, you have not made any rash promise to meet this man. 2 26 people's l.vwyer. Hoiv. Fear not, he will notmore offend you by his presence here. Grace. Mr. Howard, we thank you. Hoto. Grace, dearest Grace, call me Robert still ; j^ou have not known me long, 'tis true, I trust his offer has not made mine, humble as it is, of less value. Grace. Robert, your prospects in life may be blasted by a union with the sister of a felon. Hoio. Dearest Grace, let our marriage depend upon Charle's acquittal ; and the measures I have taken will not be in vain. Grace. Prove my brother's innocence, and I am yours. Hoiv. I will do so ; you will pardon me for inquiring too closely into your affairs. Charles has told me his story, it shall be used to his advantage ; this must be your home no longer : take this letter to the house, Grace, with the Grecian Portico, that which pleased you so well, in our walk last Sunday : wait till the owner arrives, he will serve you and Charles. He has heard of your misfortunes, and would see you : when the trial is over I will bring you tidings of the result. Let no anxiety tempt you into the Court House ; the forms of a criminal trial, are too harsh for a sensitive mind, much less a mother's, or a sister's, when a brother is arrainged. Grace. I hope ail will go well, but for your persuasion, I would have found the People's Lawyer, and begged him to act in Charles' cause ; you know Mr. Winslow has threatened that he shall be against him at the trial. Hoio. I am sure he will not. Fear not, our laws are just ; our judges honest men, our jurors are our equals. The right will prevail ; 'tis near the hour ; in our next meeting, Grace, I shall claim you for my wife. Mother, let me call you so, be of good heart. — [Uxit Mrs. Otis and Grace, K. h. 1 e. — Now, Hugh Winslow, beware ! the snare, your subtle thought set for the innocent, shall close upon the guilty one. \_Exit 1 E. L. H. SCENE n. — A Street with signs, of Attorneys, Sfc, as Court Street represented in Boston — Solon Shingle enters L. H. with an old Plaid Cloak and Umbrella. Citizens, viale and female, crossing to R. and L. H. and Exit. Sol. I wish I could catch the plaguy critter that stoio my people's lawyer. 27 apple sarse — where bouts am I ? [Reading signs.) I'm among the law shops — jest the right place to find rogues — I won- der where the Court House is. By George, I'll let folks know I fout in the revolution, [goes iip stage and talks to a man that is passing from r. to L. H.) Enter Winsloiu, r. h. Win. Just as I expected. The forgery is detected — the draught returned, and it will be traced to me, and from the obstinacy of this boy I may be ruined, I must hasten his con- yiction. [^Theman leaves Solon laughing, and Exits 1 E. L. H. Sol. Jest so. [Laughs, sees Winsloio.'] Ah, Mr. Winslow how dey do ? By Cain, I got lost this morning, or I should have been in tu see you. Win. (aside.) I wish, with all my heart, you had never been found. Sol. That aint all ; IVe lost my apple sarse out of the tail eend of my waggin;it is sich a prime lot — tu, as good as that I sold tu the chap from the Southard, and in your store. Wi7i. Man from the Southard — I remember, do you know what we were talking about that day, Mr. Shingle? Sol. Yes, about the revolution ; how the fellers had to eat off the head of a barrel, without knives and forks. Mr. Wins- low, are you a judge of clothes? I bought this coat at a vandue and this umbrella — what it is wox-th ; cash down ? Win. I don't know, indeed, do you think you could tell the story in Court if I wished you to — about the check Col. Spencer gave me that day. Sol. The day I sold him the apple sarse ? — guess I could ; your clerk was there — he could tell better than me. I was figueriug out how much caliker it would take tu make mj Nabby a fash- ionable gown. But, I say, they du tell me that your clerk waa a rogue. Win. To-day his trial comes on ; after 'tis over, come and see me. I should like to talk the matter over with you, about Col. Spencer. S>1. How he laughed when I told him about the battle of Bunkerhill. — Bell Rings Win. You had better come into the court. I'll be there. [Exit Winslow, R. h. Sol. Jest so, thank you, tell the judge I'll be there. When- ever I hear that Bell, I always consate there is trouble brewing. 28^ people's lawyePv. Whenveer Tdu go tu court, I'm sure tumake some alfired mis- take or other ; once I drove right strait intu the prisoner's stall, they told me tu stand up, and I did ; they asked me if I had anything tu say ; .-^ays I no ; and while tliey were trying me, the real rogue got off. But if this Otis boy stole the watch he might have stole my apple sarse. I'll go in, and if there's any- thing bavin on the case, I'll speak. I don't like tu make a speech among these law chaps. They work a feller up so, he dont know his head from his heels ; 1 shall have law enough, I'spose ; for that John Ellsley won't mari-y my Xabby, I consid- ed her her as good as married, and now her markits spoiled ; my darter and the apple sarse may make work for the Lawyers yet — jest so. [Exit, r. h SCENE III. — Court House ^Q. Discovered, the judge on the bench E. H. before him the Clerk, Jury sitting, 12 Lawyers, Charles Otis in the Fsisoner's Bjx, Sheriff in his place — Ellsley — Thompson — Quirk on seat near the witness sta?rd — Winslow enters and sits near Ellsley as scene changes — The Clerk is standing reading the Indictment the — Prisoner is also standing. Clerk. (Finishing Indictment.) What say, you, Charles Otis — Guilty or not guilty ? Cha. Not guilty. Trip. (Bises.) May it please your honor, Gentlemen of the Jury, in this case, CommouAvealth, versus Charles Otis for stealing a watch and chain, the property of Hugh Winslow, we shall occupy but little of your time. The evidence offered will be found so conclusive that I shall probably not find it necessary to detain you with any argument. I shall proceed at once to the examination of the witnesses. The witnesses in this case will please come forward. Clerk. Hugh Winslow, Peter Thompson, John Quirk, John Ellsley. Eater Solon Shingle. Uegoes to table quietly, and shoves them all aside, lays doivn hat a'^.d whip), and offers to lay down umbrella \ is prevented by officers. Sol. I've got in, by Cain. Clerk. Are you concerned in this case ? people's law yep;. 29 Sol. Well, I'pose its likely — I am or I ought to be. Clerk. Your name, sir ? Sol. Solou Shingle. Clerk. Solon Shingle ? Sol. Jest so. [Busirtesf. Clerk, Hold up your right hands. ( I'/iey do.) You solemnly swear &c. I All are sworn. Trip. Mr. Winslow, will you take the stand, sir? (He does to.) You have had your watch stolen ? Wni. I have, sir. Trip. Is the watch in Court, (An officer hands the watch to him.) Is that your watch ? Win. It is, sir. Trip. That is all, for the present, Mr. Winslow. Mr. Thomp- son, take the stand if you please, (he does so.) Mr. Thompson, you arrested the prisoner. Tho. I did. Trip. State to the court, if you please, what you know. Thu. I had a warrant for the arrest of the prisoner. I found him at his house. When I made known my business he was agitated and denied the charge. I proposed to search him, he resisted. Solon by this time has fallen asleep, and snores occasionally. Trip. He resisted, well. Tho. We did search him, and upon his person, found the lo«t property. Trip. This is the watcli you found in the pocket of the pri- soner. Tho. It is sir. (Solon snores.) Trip. Very well. Mr. Quirk, take the stand. Quirk. (Having taken the stand.) I went with Mr. Thomp- son. We found the watch and a paper, which he first gave to a young man, avIio was present. Trip. Did he refuse to give you that paper ? Quirk. He did, sir? Trip. Very well sir, stand down. Timid. I should like to ask the witness the nature of that paper, and that is if — Trip. In time sir, I will produce it, soon enough for your client's good. Tim. The paper having been mentioned, I should like to know what it has to do with the case. Trip. I will not produce it now, I know my duty, and shall perform it, next witness. 30 peoi'le's lawyek. Winsloio and Tripper are in conversation, Shingle being next in or der, an officr azvakens him, and he goes to the stand. Sol Jest so. Trip. All, Mr. Shingle, "what do you know of this affair ? Sol. Well, sir, I can't say, you know there's no telling ■whose Governor till arter 'lection. So I guess. Trip. My. Shingle, I think I had the pleasure of examining you once before in a case. SoL Yes, and you didn't get much a head on me, did you ? Trip. On this occasion, you may tell what you know in your own way. Sol. Jest so. But I don't tell all I know, for nothing — as I said in the last war, for my father fit in the revolution. Trip. Never mind that, sir — an article has been stolen, as you are aware ; now confine yourself to this fact. Sol. Jest so. I was in Mr. Winslow's the other night ; I left my team in the street — two yoke o' cattle and a horse. Trip. AVhy tell iis of that ? let your teaiQ go. Sol. That's what I'm coming to — my team did go ; for I could'nt bring 'em up into the shop ; so I was talking with Mr. Ellsley there, about matters and things — my Nabby's getting married and so on, and how things worked — Squire, I wish 3'ou'd hand me a pen there tu pick my tooth, I eat three cent's worth of clams, afore I come into court, and really believe there's a clam atween my eye tooth, and tother one next tu it. Judge. Mr. Shingle, this has nothing to do with the case. Sol. Well, I did'nt say it had, Squire. Trip. Just confine yourself to the facts in the premises, if you please, Mr. Shingle. Sol. Well, sir — I don't exactly understand what you mean by premises. Trip. Why, sir, I thought every fool knew as much as that. SrA. Jest so; well as I come out of the store, I knew that my cattle would natrally look tu me. and I took off the chain. Jud. The watch chain, Mr. Shingle. Sol. No, Squire, the back chain. TrijJ. The back chain, what's that ? Sol. Why I thought every fool knew what a back chain was. I had him there, Squire, by Cain. Jnd. Mr. Shingle, the loss of the article has been proved without your evidence — 'Twas found in the pocket of the pri- soner — as you doubtless heard. Sol. In his pocket ? Jud. So said the witness. people's lawyer. 31 Sol. Then his pocket must have been as big as a hog pen tu hold my barrel of apple sarse. Jad. ^Tis a watch that has been stolen — Sol. A watch — Then I must have been asleep while you have been goiu' on. I knew nothing about any watch. Jud. Then you know nothing about this case, it appears — there is some mistake, Mr. Tripper. Trip. So it appears. Mr. Shingle, how came you hear. Sol. Well, 1 come to see about my apple sarse. But either the clams that I eat, or a little rum toddy that I took arter- wards made me sleepy. Jud. You may stand down, Mr. Shingle, for the present. Sol. Jest so ; you've swar'd me then for nothing, however I'm ready for next time. (Stands down.) Trip. John Ellsley. Mr. Ellsley, please to take the stand, you have been sworn, sir ? El. I have, sir. Ih-ip. You are a clerk in the employment of Mr. Winslow ? El. lam, sir. Trip. Y"ou have been intimate with the prisoner ? El. Prisoner. I — you mean — yes sir. Trip. Give us if you please a histoi'y of your knowledge of this affair. Cha. John Ellsley— tell the truth. Jnd. Silence — prisoner — go on, Mr. Ellsley. ' El. On the morning that Charles was dis'^harged, I called on him at his house. He said he had a secret he wished me to keep. I declined — he then offered me a watch and chain, which I knew to be the property of our master. He told me he had taken it, and offered to give me half, if I would keep it for him, which I refused. Trip. Did you not advise him to return it ? El. I did. He promised to do so, and wrote a confession. Trip. Which I will now read, — (Reads.) " To my wronged master — tempted by circumstances, which I will hereafter ex- plain, — I took from you your watch and chain. Conscience will not let me keep the ill-gottou bauble, and penitently, I im- plore you to receive it, and forgive the commission of the crime." Timid. Let me see the paper,— it is not signed, or proved to have been written by my client. Trip. ^Twas found in his possession — we will soon settle that. Mr. Ellsley, is that the hand writing of the prisoner? El. It is. sir, — I saw him write it. Chas. I did write the confession. I do not deny it. Timid. Bo not speak sir, — admit nothing. 32 pkoi'Le's lawyer. Trip. Mr. Ellsley, you may stand down. I shall rest the case here without remark. Mr. Timid, any question you may wish to propose, I am ready to hear. Timid. !May it please the Court — the case appears circum- stantially to be this. I mean to say that if evidence of good character can avail — I can fill this court-room with such testi- mony. Iloicard enters and comes foncard. Speaks to Charles a^d shakes his hand — then comes to Timid and tohispers. I am not ex- actly prepared, but I do not doubt that if a little delay — Timid. Certainly, sir, — by all means. Hoio. I thank you, sir. —may it please your Honor, I have listened to some of the evidence in this case, as well as the re- marks of the learned gentleman for the Government. I am here to speak in defence of that innocent younc; man. Trip. This is unfair, sir, — I appeal to the Coui't, if this in- terference is not improper. How. I shall be pleased to meet anj- fair argument against my appearance here, as counsel for that young man ; the vic- tim, in my opinion, of a base conspiracy — which I think I shall be able to prove, unless my right to practice in this Court be denied mo. Jud. Go on Mr. Howard, there can be no good excuse for objection. Sol. Why, that's the People's Lawyei' — things will turn, I reckon. ]Mr. Howard, V\e. lost a barrel of apple sarse. Sheriff. Silence, in the Court. Sol. Jest so. [Sits doion.) IIoic. John Ellsley, take the stand again. — [He does so with evident umvillingness.) Though the law may sometimes shield a villain, with its broad hand of power, in honest hands 'tis an engine the evil-doer dreads, — John Ellsley, you are under oath, a solemn oath , and upon the words spoken by you — under the penalty of broken oaths rests the fate of one who was your companion — j^ovir friend — I charge you, sir, with uttering what is untrue, and advise you to recall the dark deed which you have here committed. Tri. Is this brow-beating a witness — this sermonizing to be allowed, sir? Hoio. Speak not, sir — by courtesy — by right — the witness is mine, I will use him till he speaks the truth. Look at me, sir — knowest thou not that the eye of the eternal Judge is on you, that he has this day, with his pen of fire, written perjury, against thy soul. Winslow and Tripper in anxious cor7iversaton, Elhley attempts to do as Winslozv directs. PEOPLE'S LAWYER. 33 How. Look not there — if yon dare not meet my eye, look at j'our victim — tell me how yon aviII feel to see his yontlif il form wasting away in the wall's of a State Prison, his friends weep- ing over him as one dead, worse than dead, disgraced — and by thy false words — John Ellsley, ere it b? too late, confess. Ell. I will confess the truth— all I have uttered is fals3— I placed the watcli in his pocket — for me he wrote the confess'on. I would have ruined my friend for paltry money ! — Mr. Wius- Io»v knew it all. Win. 'Tis false — I knew nothing of it. How. Hugh WinsloAV, silence — a day of judgment will come for you — I claim a verdict of acquital for Charles Otis. Jud. If Mr. Ellsley retract his evidence, the action cannot be sustained, — Gentlemen of the Jury, the case is for your decision. The Jury consuU — Winslow is about leaving the Court. How. IMr. Winslow, remain — I have procured against you a-n indictment for forgery. Will. Sir, do you mean to insult me ? Jud. Silence. Foreman of the Jury. We have agreed. Olerk. What say you ? Foreman. Not guilty. Charles comes from box, Hoiv. ( Takes his hand ,) —Officer, your duty. J\'inslotv is arrested. Sol. Right side up— jest so. Mr. Witislow in custody of two officers. Animated Tableau. Scene IV. — A Street — a crowd of people pass over the stage as from a trial— ivith them Solon Shingle— when all off, Solon speaks. Sol. Well, now, who would have once thought of sich a thing — it's just the way some fellow's mouths are j in ted, they 34 people's lawyer. will strain ^em out of jint not to swaller a mouse or a grass- hopper, and slide down an ox waggin, or a breaking up plough, so tu speak — well, my gal's lucky that she did'nt mar- ry that John, arter all — and as to myself — if ever anybody catches me inside of a Court House, agin, I'll agree tu be proved non pompus — and that means a tarnal fool, accordin' to law books — yes, jest so. Hoiv. [Entei's) — Ah, my friend, you will find your daughter at my house — I thank you for your assistance — I am now in haste — the widow Worthy, shall have her rights. — \^Exit. Sol. Well,, squire, that's first-rate for the widder — but look here — oif again — odd critter, that lawyer, so was his father ; jest as odd as three oxen, — he fit in the revolution, tu. Well, it's no use my travelin' round all day, these city folks, thy'll skin me out of my old plaid cloak, that I bought ten year ago, hat, boots, and trowsers, tu — far as I know. I've been here 'bout long enough — I'll follow arter the squire — find my Nab- by — buy a load of groceries, and get home as quick as my team will go it, — when I'm in this ere Boston, I get so bewil- dered, I don't know a string of sausages from a cord of wood —jest so. ^ [^JExit, Scene V, — A spJendid draioing room — pictures — the harp discovered. Mrs Otis enters ivith Gi'ace 1 e l h. 3Irs 0. 'Tis, indeed, a splendid mansion — its beauties are dimm'd by the thoughts of the news we may hear. ffoio. (Enters 1 e l h) — Have I kept you waiting, Grace. — Charles has returned — has he not ? He left the Court-house with me. 3Irs 0. He has. Mow. Mrs. Otis request your son's attendance here.' 3Irs 0. I will seek him. — [Exit 1 e r h, Grace. Robert, this pi ce is a perfect paradise — what does it mean? how may one in your situation be intimate with the owner of such a mansion, and there too is my harp — what does this mean ? people's lawyer. 35 IIoiv. It means tny dearest Grace, that vou are to be hence- forth the mistress of this place — that you think a jiaradise I purchased the harp for you, knowing how you valued it. Grace, a clergyman is in attendance with a few friends — that harp be the lirst present from your husband — this place is mine — I am rich. Charles and 3Irs Otis enter 1 e e h. Chas. Mother, there stands my deliverer — Robert Howard, the People's Lawyer. Grace. Is this so, Robert ? How. It is — I first saw you at Mrs. Germains ; your appear- ance interested me ; your character, upon inquiry pleased me I determined that my riches should liave no weight in the lady's choice selected to be my wife — hence my disguise. Grace. Then you are not a mechanic ? How. I am — my Father, though wealthy, was governed by caprice, and insisted upon my learning a mechanical trade besides educating me for his own profession, that of the bar which I have practiced with success. In my character of a work- ing man I became acquainted with the misdoings of Cliarles' master, which enabled me, as his attorney, to prove your brother's innocence. Chas. For which, sir, accept my gratitude. How. Let it be considered a family matter, now — I shall aid you in your future plans. SJon enters 1 e l h. Sol. Mr. Howard, that plaster you put on to my friend Winslow, is likely to stick, and now he's gone to jail. How. He will meet his just reAvard — his ill-gotten gains will scarcely shield him from the punishment due to fraud he is accused of forgery. Sol. Jest 80 — Mr. Howard, is this the gal you are going to marry ? Hozv. Yes, sir — a friend of my father's. Grace. Your friends must be mine — I'm glad to see you. S^l. My name's Shingle — I know'd your father. Miss Otis Otis is a good name — but you change it for a good one tew — my darter, Nabby — well, I guess I will not talk about her Pll stay to the wedding and take a bit of cake home to my old woman and drink a glass of wine with you — and wish you good luck, and a dozen boys, if you waat 'em — Mrs. Ocis, you 36 people's lawyer. must'nt mind my talking, you might as well try to back a lieavy load up a hill, as stop my thoughts coming right out in homely words. Mrs 0. We doubt not your meaning is good. How. Grace, this is your home, do Avith all as you please — and I trust more delicately than I can — you will explain my good intentions to your friends. Grace. Few words will suffice — for one who has for others plead so well, I plead — I am interested in the result — for my sake — if not for bis own — I trust that in the Court you will admit to full practice The People's Lawyer. SITUATIONS. CHAELES. MBS. OTIS. HOWARD. GRACE. SOLON. CATALOGUE rONTI.NUED. Living too fast Louise de Ligneroles Lady of Lyons Loves Sacrifice Love Cliase Ihe London Assurance lioolc before you Leap Love Loan of a Lover Luke the Laborer Love in humble Life Lancers The Love in a Village More Blunders than One My Aunt Man and Wife Masks and Faces Merry Wives of Windsor Michael Erie Midsumer Night's Dream Mummy 'Ihe Moll Pitcher Macbeth " Travestie Jlerchant of Venice Money Marco Spado Mob Cap The Morning Call Mr & Mrs White Maurice the Woodcutter My Friend the Major Much ado about Nothing Mountaineers The Married and Single ^[iiui your own Business .Maid of Croissey Maid of the Mill Mary Queen of Scots My Wife's Diary My Neighbors Wife Miller and his Men Matteo Falcone Maid of Florence Mother and Child are doing well My Uncle My Grandmother Merchant's Wedding Mountain Sylph Man of many Friends -Nature and Philosophy New Footman 'Ihe Nature's Nobleman Nervous Man Nipeil in the Bud New Way to Pay Old Debts Naval Engagements Old Guard 'ihe Othello Opposite Neighbors Omnibus Ihe Object of Interest Old Heads and Young Hearts Old Maids Old Chateau i Old Honesty Orators, 'Ihe Paul Junes Presumptive Evi.lence Popping the Question Pilot 'IhB Prima Donna Sketches in India Pet of the Petticoats Sardanapalus Poor Pillicody St Patrick's Eve Perplexing Predicament Secret 'Ihe Paul Pry Pizarro Poor Gentleman Passing Cloud ihe P. P. or Man and Tiger Perfection Pride of the Market Peasant Boy ihe Poor Soldier The Padlock The Prize ihe Prommissory Note The Paul and Viry;inia Pickwick Club Pauline Parents and Guardians People's Lawyer Patrician's Daughter Queen of the Abrazzi Keview Th- Robber's Wife Rory 0'Mj.,re Recruiting Officer Roland for an O.iver A Rosina Meadows Rakes Progress fhe Rip Van Winkle Raising the Wind Richelieu Road to Ruin Romeo and Juliet Robbers 'Ihe Rivals Ihe Richard III Rent Day Ihe Rough Diamond The Ransom 'ihe Robert Macaire Sea of Ice Sailor of France Sunshine through the Clouds Siamese Twins St. Cupid Six Degrees of Crime Soi)hias Supper Saran in Paris S,)ring and Autumn iSiiandy Maguire j Still Waters Run Deep iSpectre Bridegroom Sergeant's Wffe ihe Swiss Swains The School for Scandal Soldiers Daughter Serious Family She Stoops 10 Conquer Stranger School for Grown Child- ren School for Prodigals School for Authors School for Arrogance j Swiss Cottage 'ihe I Slasher and Crasher iSca Captain ih.- iS.Mit t • iho lower speed the Plough Simpson & Co ,Sv\eethearts and Wives Secret Service Spitfire ihe Seven Clerks The Scan Mag Teddy the Tiler lempest The Temper Three weeks af er Mar riage Toodles The Town and Country Twelfth Night I Two Bonny Castles 'Twould Puzzlea Conju- ror I Two in the Morning I Two (ientlemen of Vero- ' na , Two Friends Tekeli ' Tom Voddy's Secret .Taken in and done for Thumping Legacy To Oblige Benson Too Much of a good thing Turning the Tables Tom Cringle Used Up I Uncle John 'Venice Preserved iV'irglnius Vicar of Wakefield Village Lawyer Vampire, The Ways and Means ! Waterman Ihe Who's the Dupe Wild Oats i Wandering \Iinstrel The I Wanted one Thousand Milliners Willow Copse The Widow 'j Victim 'The !Wife 'Ihe WUliam'Tell ; Writing on the Wall Wolf and Lamb Wilful Murder Werner White Horse of the Pep- pers Weathercock The Who Speaks First Witcli of Windermere White Bait at Greensvich Wonderful Woman Wonder The Wreck Ashoi-e Wallace Whistle for it Young Hassar Young Widow Th- Yes Yei or No Yeoma:.'s Daughter \'ello\v Kids VellOrt- Dwarf Your Life is in danger Za Ze Zi Za Zu Ten of the above for One Dollar. I Boston Theatre. .1 coLLEcrrnx or scarce acting Tra-jjedh^s, f omiMlies, DraiJias, Farces and Biirlettas. UNIFORM IN PRICE AND STYLE. KA( ri XIMBER lf2 1-^2 CENTS. N () \V \\ W A D Y. VOL. 1. VOL. in. I IIOI.L IMT( III K. 17 PRESUMPTIVE EVIDENCE. '. Tin: I Oil a ST lUJSE. IX 3IA\ & WIFE. i. SWISS SWAINS. li> THE SKPGEANT'S WIFE. 4. T-sfK IJ Vtlli.LOrvS JJEDK / >» -iO 3IASKS \r FA< ES. ,-). SOl'ill V*S SLPPtlR. -1 >I!:RRY WIVE:S of WINDSOR li. \ ROEVS!> FOR A> OLfV" »;, 2> \.\TURE AND PHILOSOPHY. 7. IJLUK-EVED SISAN. i". AGNES DE VERE. H. JOHN Ri IE. -4 SHANDY MAGLTRE. VOL. IT. VOL. IV. n. S\Ti\ IN PARIS. i. AVILD OATS. io VlOlli: IJLU.NDFRSTHAN ONE if) MIC HAEE ERLE. II ROSIN A MEADOAVS. 07 TJ DDY THE TILER. 1-^ TH5 J>IMR IJl LLt. 2S SPi CTRE BRIDEGROOM. 1^ ViV Al\T. i^* PATRK lAN'S DAIGHTLR. 14 Sl'RlNG AND AUTUMN. :;o iVlLLOW COPSE. 1.) SIV DEGKEf. S OF C KlVf ' ^{ATTEO FALCONE. KiUMLSlICK ROY. '.'OI'LE'S LAWYER. Will shoi\ .J Published. SUUfiEON OF PAR5S. ITvlSII ASsURAN< E. \DOl'Ti:i> CHILI?. ilAPiV MAN. Til » : W<»\ ?>M; . W R ECK ASHOR E. lOIOT UMNISx. DREAM AT SEA. llORIUliS Wiir. E TWLXS. « ; \r,!. Crinuitud \\:\'^, Last >.Lin, \V!i.> <' - \hr-v take ino for. ^latlaline, the WAV of thi^ K;iHb;mv^', i'omi.Un-.u- >'f the Forest, Korty and Fifty, i»eiip:al TigcT, 'Die ('hj^st-,^ j^aln.ri'. 'i'iie Parsou's Nose, Young So;uu|), Shx-iaakei-of 'I'luiiuii-v. Nick of the \\o(.(i.-;, B^tty .Murtin, Lll.i llos.-n})ur;.v, Tlie Fireman, llifle Brigjule, j Little Jockey. JJelle's Str:it;)^eui. My Fellow Tlerk, Dr. Dehvovth, 1 Touch and Take. Advice to llusna!nL-. Young Wife and Ohl Umbrella, I lletriVtiit'oii, Actress of l*;idua. Atlrienne, the Actress, &c. IT.)?etli9r witli many vaki.-^bie pieces never in print. ■^ WM, V. SPENCER,.Pl-blisiikr, •!^ 12S W(iii}\l)}^fon^ Corner of Water St.^ Boston. ']i^^^^ . r^