i,y tlniqi 12- %^iJtllU GMT MARGATE Copyright, 1890, by M. B. Snow. PRESS OK FRANK H. SMITH, INniANAPOLIS. A UNisue coiNcipeNce A COMEDY IN TWO ACTS BY f J MARGARET BUTLER SNOW INDIANAPOLIS 1890 ^Q tJ DRAMATIS PERSONAE. srr^- Frank Howe, Horace Marshall, Mr. Grey, Edith Howe, Esther Bradford, Laura Stone, Mrs. Willie Wilding, Ann, A Writer. His College Chum. (Not Classified.) Frank's Wife. Edith's Sister. Esther's Friend. A Pillar of Society. - A Maid. Place — An Island. Scene — Mr. Howe's Cottage on the Cliff. Time — August, 18 The action is comprised within the space of three weeks. TMPSd-OObb^l /\ unique Qoir^cidepce. ACT I Scene. The piazza of Mr. Howe's cottage. Door at hack of stage, center. Piazza chairs, rugs, etc. ; tables covered with magazines, papers, etc. Frank and Edith discovered. Frayik lounges in a steamer chair; smokes. Edith arranges flowers, a quantity of which lie on a table before her. Holds up a vase, inspecting its effect. Edith. Could anything be more perfect ? That vase was made for that rose ! Frank. Most people would say the rose was made for the vase. Edith. The rose wasn't made, it grew ! and — Frank. Scientific, but not scriptural, my dear. Edith. — and if plants have brain power, (they certainly have as much as some people I know ! ) this rose has its full share of discretion. Look at it! Isn't it haughty ? Could any belle or de'butante be more vain ? I shall indulge its par- donable pride. I shall place it before a mirror, where it can admire its beauty all day long. Frank. And its punishment shall be swift. It shall soon see its petals wither and fall. 4 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Edith. O how spiteful! It shall not, for I shall be careful to take it away before the least tiny leaf turns brown. {Dis- appears through door at back of stage, and is heard inside singing from " Yeomen of the Guard." Beappears ; begins to arrange another vase of flowers.) Frank. Your song was peculiarly appropriate. I was medita- ting upon an especial case of " doing and undoing " when you began to sing. You must be a medium. Come, tell me! Of what was I thinking? Or rather, of whom was I thinking? {Brandishes a letter ivith affected carelessness.) Edith. {Ignoring his question.) What magnificent flowers these are ! They are the finest we have had this summer. New- port can not usually spare so many. But Mr. G-rey sent for immense quantities for the german, to-night. He heard Esther say how impossibly nice it would be to have them for favors and of course ordered them at once. {Pause; she works busily.) If Esther should say she wanted Alad- din's lamp, it would arrive by express in the course of a week, nicely polished, with a neat bundle of extra wicks. He would like to give her the earth. Frank. Why does he hesitate? lie owns it, does he not? If it really does not belong to him, I have been laboring under a most humiliating delusion. He has the air of considering me a trespasser on his private grounds, when I am in his presence. Once or twice I have been on the point of apol- ogizing to him for being. But I didn't think he would accept my apolog3\ His manner always — discourages me. I don't like to feel — superfluous. ^ A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 5 Edith. You are too severe. Be charitable, be large, be high ! Consider how fleeting is this young man's glory. He is a senior now, a great man in his little world. But next year where will he be? He is in the foreground of the picture now, and his eye for the perspective is not quite accurate. I did a water-color once — my last — of a little boy standing in front of a high fence. Mr. Grey reminds me of that boy. He's too large. He dwarfs the landscape. But when he looks for himself a year from now, he won't be able to see himself without a microscope. Frank. I will arrange to spend my summer where he is, if I have to follow him to the sunny lands of the Orient, or Greenland's icy clime. I want to be there, when Grey " sees himself." I may not be " large," or " high," but I con- fess I have an overwhelming desire to be with him, {rises, walks to and fro, his thumbs in his vest pockets), when the universe and he assume their correct proportions. He will then behold me, {striking himself theatrically on his breast), as I am ! Edith. Proud moment! {Goes into the house with another vase of flowers.) Frank. {As she reappears.) But see here, Edith, your apparent lack of curiosity concerning this letter alarms me. I know what an eflbrt you are making. You will be ill if you keep this up too long. {Sits near her.) Edith. I haven't the slightest desire to know anything about it. Frank. Now I know some supernatural power is sustaining you. I have never seen you like this. Edith. Absurd ! 6 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Fi^ank. Yes, it is absurd. You know you want me to read you this letter. Why don't you admit it ? Let me urge you. You understand, I don't wish to intrude, — if you are will- ing, — I would not not like to bore you, — {unfolds the letter), if you will graciously hear, — Edith. Stop your nonsense, Frank, and come to the point, — if there is one. One would think you had never received a letter before, you make such a fuss over this one ! What is the remarkable news it contains ? One of my unpaid bills, I suppose. They always excite you, unnecessarily. Frank. That is a base slander. But I won't stop to argue that now. This letter is from Horace Marshall. Edith. Frank ! [Folds her hands on the table and stares at him.) Frank. Yes. He is coming here. To see us. Soon. Edith. Well, as they say in Connecticut, I do give up ! Frank. I knew you would. But isn't it glorious news? I don't know of any one I would rather see than old Horace. Edith. But how is he ? What is the tone of his letter ? Grave or gay, lively or serene ? Frank. I can't quite make out. But that he is willing to come back to America is a good sign. It's a short letter ; I'll read it to you. " New York, August 3. Dear Frank : I got in to day. Town hot and disagreeable. Wired to your place and got your address. Think I will run down for a week or two. Get me rooms, and a place somewhere for Johnson, in your hotel, if you can. Kind- A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 7 est regards to Mrs. Howe. I sball enjoy meeting her again, more than I can say. Hastily yours, H. E. Marshall." I think we can find him a room in our hotel, can't we ? Edith. Charming ! {Smiles, absently.) Frank. Your smile says " Esther" as plainly as your lips could. That witch ! She will soon make him think he has been a good deal of a fool in the last three years. This is just the place for him. Hearts mended. No fee. I will engage the fair Esther's services at once. Edith. Kow Frank ! don't you say one word to Esther. You know how provokingly contrary she is. If she sees that we want her to like him, she will snub him from the begin- ning. We will explain him to her, and lead her to think he -is a hopeless case, — which, by the way, T am inclined to do. That will arouse her interest, and — (she smiles again), 0, 1 think we can certainly entertain him, with these lovely piazzas — Frank. And Esther, — Edith. — and the sea, — Frank. And Esther, — Edith. — and the moonlight, — Frank. And Esther, — Edith, —and the " Retreat," — Frank. And Esther ! I think we can do something for him, — kill him or cure him, as the doctors say. 8 A UNIQUE COINCrDENCE. . {Enter Esther. She stands in the doorway, holding hack the porti^ere icith one hand, a parasol in the other. Dressed in white, with broad ichite hat.) Esther. Who is "he"? What is to he done for him? Can I help? {Advances to middle of the stage; sinks slowly into an easy chair. Takes off gloves.) What charitahle scheme are you under- taking now ? You two would he miserable if you could not be doing something for somebody. It is positively fatiguing to watch you. It is warm weather for good works, but, {shrugs her shoulders,) my conscience is still a little troublesome. I have not succeeded in subduing it completely. It is like Mrs. Willie Wilding. It refuses to be snubbed. Unfold 3'our scheme. May I be in it ? Frank. I think so. Yes, I may safely say you'll be in it, — very much in it. Edith. {Hastily.) We have just had a letter from Frank's old chum at Yale, a man I met when we were in Berlin. He is coming here to make us a visit. Esther. {Indifferently.) Ah, indeed I How interesting. Is this the scheme ? It strikes me that we are the beneficiaries, and he the benefactor. The prospect of having another man to cheer the scene is almost exciting. Frank. Ungrateful Essie ! What would Mr, Grey say, and all the noble army of martyrs who endure daily agony for thy sweet sake ? Esther. {Ignoring him.) When is he coming, Edith ? Soon ? To-day? For the german ? Xo. That would be asking too much of Fate. {Consults her watch, which hangs at her A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 9 belt.) I am hungry. Even this delightful news cannot spoil my faithful appetite. Edith, may I ring for luncheon ? Let's have it here. Mith. Certainly, dear ; ring at once. I would have ordered it, but I was so interested in my flowers, and this news about Mr. Marshall. {Esther rings ; takes off her hat. Ann appears.) Esther. Serve luncheon out here, Ann. It is so warm inside. {To Edith) Marshall, did you say his name was ? Frank. Horace Marshall; one of the salt of the earth, too. Esther. {Musingly.) Horace Marshall. Now where have I heard that name ? It is certainly familiar. Who is he? What is he ? A returned missionary ? What is it we have to do for him ? Frank. {Laughs.) Well, in the strictest sense of the word, Horace Marshall is not an object of charity. He doesn't need money. He has too much now. What he wants is a mental tonic, a spiritual dose of quinine, so to speak. He has the blues. If he had to earn his living, he would not have time to be so minutely introspective. It is expen- sive to be introspective. It's a luxury. The poor can't aflbrd it. They haven't time to explore the inner recesses of their minds, with lanterns and geological implements. When they take time, they are socialists. {Ann sets the table.) Esther. I hesitate to cut short this interesting and instructive address, but curiosity impels me. May I venture to recall to you the subject of this discussion? A few facts would be an oasis in this desert of speculation. Who is Horace Marshall? 10 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Edith. You have certainly heard us speak of him. "We saw quite a little of him, in Berlin. I was attracted to him at at once. He is perfectly devoted to Frank. Esther. That explains your admiration for him, but leaves me still in the dark. Edith. Didn't I write you about him? We were so interested in him and in his experience. He is very unusual, isn't he, Frank? (Esther gives a gesture of despair, and sits at luncheon table. Edith and Frank sit at table also. Exit Ann.) Frank. Undoubtedly. When I think of what Marshall was when he left college — brilliant, gay, fascinating, with a cloudless future forecast for him by every one who knew him, I can hardly realize that he is the same man. Why, he seemed to have the world in his fist — it was his oyster. All the gifts of the gods were his, — health, wealth, indus- try, ambition, keen mental powers, a magnetic ability to make and hold friends, — he had everything, by Jove ! He had such a quick grasp of things, that I am told he got hold of the law in a way that was phenomenal. Esther. ( Wildly.) Can I never pluck the heart out of this mystery ? What's the matter with the man ? What crime is he expiating ? Edith. {Laughing.) We have not been exactly specific in our explanations, have we ? We will begin at the beginning, and tell you all about him. Esther. One at a time, please. Your duets are apt to be con- fusing. [Pours chocolate.) Frank. Place aux daiuesl A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 11 Edith. I first met Horace Marshall, as they say on the witness stand, the winter we spent in Berlin, after our marriage. Frank and I were too much interested in each other to spare much time or attention to any one else. But he in- terested us, in spite of ourselves. After Frank told me about him, I made efltorts to entertain him and make him feel at home with us. He was the most unhappy man I ever saw. I^othing seemed to rouse him. He had traveled everywhere, but didn't seem to remember much about the • places he had seen. Our happiness made me feel a little guilty, when he was with ns. Frank made fun of me for feeling so, but I couldn't help it. Men are so hard-hearted ! Esther. ( With resignation.) We have now been talking about this gentleman of whom I still know nothing, (looks at her watch), nearly fifteen minutes. This is discouraging! I retire from this struggle for information. He is the sub- stance of things hoped for, yet unseen. When he comes, he can explain himself, perhaps. Frank. Ko, give me a chance. Edith, eat your luncheon, and let me be historian. I will illustrate the dift'erence between the masculine and feminine mind, by going straight to the point. Pour me another cup of chocolate, Esther. Thanks. Kow this is the story of Horace Marshall. He was gradu- ated in my class, the most popular man in it, — on the base ball nine, in the glee club, and high in his stand. He studied law at Columbia, and through the infiuence of family friends, — he was an orphan at sixteen, — was made a junior partner in a ll^J'ew York firm. He had been there a 12 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. little over a year, and was making gigantic strides toward success, when suddenly be broke off' bis connection witb tbe firm, sailed for Europe, and bas been tbere ever since, wandering about, doing notbing, seeing notbing, — being as nearly notbing as sueb a man could be. And tbe cause of it all is a woman ! {Rises; ivalks up and down piazza.) It is inexplicable! incomprebensible ! [Lights a cigar.) I didn't know mucb about it. I was out west at tbe time, working bard to get engaged. After tbat, I was busy making myself agreeable; tben we were married, and went abroad. Wben I saw Marshall in Berlin, and found him so changed, I was shocked. Whoever tbe woman was, she is a heartless, unprincipled — Esther. ( Warmly.) How can you blame her, until you know all tbe facts? She may have suff'ered just as mucb as he. Frank. (Incredulously.) Hardly. But I can understand your position, Essie. You are speaking one word for this fair unknown, and two or three dozen for yourself! Esther. If a woman can't love a man, she can't, and there's the end of it. Frank. Yes, but unfortunately tbat is not always tbe " end of it." Sometimes she pretends she does, you know, and — Esther. {Impatiently rising.) 0, 1 am so tired of bearing about tbe hearts that women break ! We bear very little about the hearts men break ! Perhaps this very girl would say tbat Mr. Marshall bad jilted her. Who knows? At least give her the benefit of a doubt ! {Rings ; Ann enters, clears away table, etc.) A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 13 Frank. What I can't understand, is, how he could let the effect of his disappointment be so disastrous. It is ruining his life. It is so inconsistent with what we all thought was his character. It is unmanly, and Marshall was manliness itself. It is weak, and he was strong. Edith. 1 think it reveals a fidelity as unique as it is beautiful. Such constancy is refreshing to see in these days of fickle- ness and change. When I began to know him, — Horace Marshall can't be learned in a day ! — I could understand what such an experience might have been to him. He has an intense, reserved nature. {Slowly.) I think to find himself beginning to forget, will be the keenest pain he has had to bear. I think he would rather remember for- ever. Frank. That shows how little you know about men ! I expect by this time he can hardly recollect her name. You see, it is eighteen months since we saw him. He may be engaged to another girl. However, we will not waste time in idle speculation. He will be here to-morrow probably, or at the latest the day after. Esther. {Meditatively) It is very interesting. I find myself rather pitying the " impossible she," whoever she was. She does not seem to have known pure gold — or at least did not value it sufficiently. {Takes her hat and parasol.) When does Sir Misanthrope arrive ? To-morrow, you think? Frank. Yes, and now we come to the conclusion of the pro- logue; the curtain is about to rise upon the play. The hero 14 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. is ou his way. The heroine awaits him. {Esther shrugs her shoulders. ) Two most indulgent chaperons are provided. The sea, the moon, the piazzas, and last hut not least, the "Retreat," with its tea and its hostess, are fitting accessories. {Edith signs him to stop. Esther leans over the back of a chair, staring at him.) l^ow can you he depended on to make the play entertaining ? Ko plot is necessary, you know. Plots are out of style. We must have plenty of light conversation, — Esther. You can supply that. Frank, i^ — on the topics of the day. And perhaps you could be persuaded to sprain your ankle; or, better yet, fall out of a boat, and let Marshall rescue you. That would be striking. We had better decide on that, and I will at once pick out a proper shallow spot for our purpose. Esther. Your style grows more involved every day. Presently clubs will be formed to study you. I shall not join. Frank. Let me explain myself. I can, and that's more than Browning could do for himself. We want distraction for Marshall. Will you undertake to distract him ? It would be no task for you. You will, won't you ? {Feigning anxiety.) Say 3'ou will. {Edith shakes her head at him; Esther turns to go. She stops in the door and looks at him over her shoulder.) Esther. I am always willing to exert myself for the benefit of humanity. {Smiles demurely.) If I do not find Mr. Mar- shall too — difficult, I may be able to — divert him. {Drops the partite behind her.) A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 15 Frank. {Calling after her.) You would flirt with your great- grandfather, if no one else were convenient! Esther. (Putting her head out hetiueen the curtains.) Well, he would like it, wouldn't he ? Frank. I'm afraid he would ! {Exit Esther.) Edith. Now you've spoiled it all ! Frank. "Wait and see. {Exeunt at side.) Scene II. Enter Marshall. Wears traveling suit. Carries afield-glass in his hand, the case slung by a strap over his shoulder. Glances about piazza, puts case on table. Marshall. This must be the place. By Jove, I hope it is ! {Looks up at house.) It was from the window in that cor- ner tower, that I caught my fleeting glimpse of that face. What eyes ! with their deep thoughtful gaze ! What was she thinking of? Whom was she dreaming of, as she stood there gazing into space? How little she dreamed that my eyes were looking straight into hers ! I felt like a spy, as I looked into those great, serious eyes. She seemed so near me, I almost fancied I could hear her sigh. But only for an instant. {Sighs ; looks at his glass; holds it to his eyes an instant.) Faithful friend ! You have shown me many a picture, but none so beautiful as that. Would it were engraven on your lenses ! {Stops suddenly in his walk. Puts 16 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. his glass in case, shr'ugging his shoulders.) I am like a Sopho- more inanely raving over some young society bud. {Sighs again.) Wish I were ! How^ both long and short the years seem since I saw the ocean from these clifis the last time. The island has changed as much as I; — it couldn't have changed more. My heart doesn't give one extra beat, as I stand in the old familiar places, where once I stood with — her. (S7niles cynically.) We used to say this would be just the spot for a cottage, and I spent a great deal of time plan- ning it in imagination — for her. Here is a cottage, here am I. But where is she? I cannot say that I care to know ! ( Walks to door.) If this is Howe's place, — and it must be, — I shall see that girl again. Wonder who she is ! {Hunts for hell.) Wonder how you get in here. Seems to be an enchanted palace. I will play the part of the " fated fairy prince." That is so much in my line. I know the sleeping beauty is awake, though, for I saw her at the window. Confound it! I drivel on here, like a fool! Ah ! here's a bell. {Rings.) The spell is broken. {Looks about as he waits.) The most attractive piazza I ever saw. I always thought this the finest spot on the island. {Enter Ann.) Marshall. {Producing card.) Is this the residence of Mr. Howe ? Ann. It is, sir. Marshall. And are Mr. and Mrs. Howe in? Ann. They are. Will you walk in ? Marshall. No, I will wait here. {Exit Ann.) {Sits.) Nice little maid. Frank has a cosy place here. Lucky man ! Charming house, charming wife, — charming guest. Won- A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 17 der who sbe is ! {Enter Frank, takes Marshall's hands, and holds them as he speaks.) Frank. Marshall, old man, it's good to see you ! Where did you drop from, and how did you happen to drop into exactly the right place ? We were going to meet you at the boat to-morrow, with a band and a bouquet. I needn't ask how you are. I^ever saw you looking better. Glad to get back ? Marshall. (Laughs.) One at a time, old boy ! I see you are the same impetuous individual you always were. To answer your questions in their order, I dropped from Newport about two hours ago. Inquired for you at the hotel, and was directed here. Imagine my state of mind ! I believe I asked for rooms in your hotel, or said something equally graceful. ( They laugh.) My mortification is severe. I am well. Kever better, and glad to get home. You look as if the world were treating you right. How is Mrs. Howe? Frank. Very well, thanks. She will be out in a moment. (They sit.) Will you smoke ? I am still a devotee. {Offers his case.) Marshall. So am I. {Takes a cigar.) You have a charming place here, Howe. There isn't a finer view than this in Europe! Frank. You approve, do you ? I think we have a very pleasant little place here. We live out here on the piazza. You get the view of the ocean from your window, too. Marshall. Oh, but — 18 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Frank. Not a word! You're to come right to us. I have ah'eady seut over for your traps. You can't escape. Marshall. I doii't waut to ! but I fear I trespass. I didn't expect to find you living in such state, you know. Frank. We're delighted to capture you. But I haven't a bed for your man. This house is a hollow mockery. It looks very large, with its towers and gables. It's an imposing imposition. The rooms are all on this floor, opening out of a great hall, — the roomiest, breeziest place you can imagine. There are not many rooms. Marshall. But isn't there a room in that tower toward the ocean ? Frank. yes ! the little " Retreat," as we call it. The way we happened to have that room was this. The architect made up his mind that we must have a stairway. Ever had anything to do with an architect? {Marshall nods neg- atively.) Then you won't understand why we immediately resigned ourselves to the inevitable. We knew there was nothing for a stairway to lead to, but the architect said that made no dift'erence. He said stairways were his strong point. He could make them wind about in a most pictur- esquely vague fashion ; or if it ended in the roof, that would be an attractive architectural eccentricity. But we thought it would be too eccentric. Finally Mrs. Howe suggested having a tiny room in the tower, and that gave the stair- Avay, with its landings and seats, an excuse for being. It is a most demoralizing spot ! AYe have afternoon tea up there ; and there we have our novels and poems and candy, A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE, 19 and otlaer reprehensible delights, such as euchre, or even poker, so depraved are we ! There is always a sea breeze in the hottest weather. But the main attraction is the goddess of the tea-pot. You should see her, Marshall! — {iJnter Udith.) Marshall. (Aside.) I have seen her ! (Advances to meet Edith.) Edith. It is a great pleasure to see 3^ou again, Mr. Marshall. (They shake hands .) And to have you with us! Just as we were thinking you had completely forgotten us, to have you appear, is charming. Marshall. Thank you very much, Mrs. Howe. As I have been telling Frank, when I found you were keeping house, I felt myself something of an intruder. Are you sure you have room for me ? Edith. Yes, indeed ! Frank. (His hand on Marshall's shoidder.) We would enlarge the house rather than let you go. Edith. We lead a most aimless, do-less life, Mr. Marshall ! We are lotos-eaters, here on the island. We have forgotten how to think, we are so lazy. Marshall. This is just the place for me, then ! I can't remem- ber when I began to forget how to think! (They laugh.) Enter Esther, dressed for walking ; adimnces slowly. Frank. Ah, Marshall, here is the other member of our Society for the Suppression of Thought. Our most successful member. Miss Bradford, Mr. Marshall. 20 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Esther. I have no cue, so I do not in the least know what my brother is talking about, Mr. Marshall. But that makes no clifierence. I believe I prefer him when he is entirel^^ unintelligible. Conversation requires less efiort. {They all laugh.') Frank. You see we are all of one mind, — or rather of no mind. Esther. {Severely.) Yes, I'm sure Mr. Marshall sees that. Every one does. Will somebody be good enough to furnish me with a key to this discussion ? Edith. We were just telling Mr. Marshall that we are so lazy we've forgotten how to think, which jou must admit is true. Esther. Without hesitation. {To Marshall.) Do people think now? It is so long since I've seen any one who does, that 1 rather fancied it was a by-gone fad. Why a real, sober, serious thought would embarrass me ! Marshall. And what is done with the time that used to be wasted in thinking? Esther. We dance, and walk, and row, and sing, and bowl, and frivol in various ways. The particular form of frivolity in which we indulge to-uight, is a german. And that reminds me, I must go over to the hotel. There are one or two arrangements left to me. This is to be an unusual event, Mr. Marshall. There are actually enough men to go round ! Such a thing has not happened in the memory of the oldest inhabitant. You will have all the pretty girls A UNIQUE COINOIDENCE. 21 to lead out with, for I'm afraid we can get you no partner, so late as this. Of course you will dance ? Marshall. I — hardly know, Miss Bradford. I'm afraid I would not know what to do on the floor of a ball-room. I should like it, — Edith. Oh ! you are a member of the Frivolity Club now, Mr. Marshall. You must dance. We all do. Frank. {To Edith) You couldn't keep him away ! {Esther walks toward the door, Marshall loith her.) Marshall. Perhaps you would kindly consent to guide my fal- tering footsteps. Miss Bradford ? {Enter Mr. Grey, behind them. Esther turns hastily.) Esther. 0, Mr. Grey ! I was just starting. {Marshall and Grey glare at each other.) Mr. Grey, Mr. Marshall. {They shake hands, stiffly.) Frank and Edith. {Bowing.) Mr. Grey. Grey. {Bowing.) Mrs. Howe. Mr. Howe. Esther. It is decided then, Mr. Marshall, that you will dance to-night ? Marshall. I shall be charmed. Miss Bradford. Curtain. 22 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. ACT II. Scene. Hall of Mr. Howe's cottage. Frank and Edith discovered; Frank with neiosiJaper., smoking. Edith gives various touches to furniture^ bric-a-brac, etc. Frank. {Throwing newspaper aside.) Well, what do you think now, about Marshall's " unique constancy ? " Don't you think he is " beginning to forget ? " Do you really think he is likely to " remember forever ? " 1 think he is entertaining himself very successfully with the present, and letting the past severely alone. Edith. (Sits on arm of chair ; laughs.) I laugh every time I think of my surprise, tlie day he came. Did you ever see a man so changed ? I found myself on the point of ask- ing him several times when he recovered ; and once I was about to say, " You look so much better than you did when I saw you last, Mr. Marshall," but, fortunately, I re- frained. I can't get used to his cheerfulness. It seems to me he is playing a part all the time, he was so grave before. He is anything but grave now. {They laugh.) Frank. Esther doesn't seem to have had any difficulty in dis- tracting him. I consider him sufficiently silly. How he and Grey loathe each other! (Laughs.) It rejoices my soul to watch Grey, when Esther is with Marshall ! I am a-veng-ed ! (Melodramatically.) A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 23 (Enter Esther and Marshall. He carries her parasol, and a bunch of flowers. They advance slowly.) Edith. Was there any mail ? [Marshall and Esther exchange glances. Smile, a trifle confused.) Esther. "We didn't go to the post-office. Frank. J^o ? Well, considering the fact that yon started with the express intention of going there, I am not surprised. If you had said you were going — over to the light-house, for example, I should have been sure of receiving my let- ters. May I ask where you did walk ? {They exchange glances and smile again.) Marshall. To the light-house. Frank. Indeed! 7 shall have no difficulty in getting to the post-office, I think. Are there any letters to post ? {Takes hat and stick.) Edith. 'No. {Frank and Edith ivalk to the door.) We are all too idle to write letters. {Aside.) If I have one from Laura Stone, don't give it to me before Esther. I don't want her to know that Laura is coming. Frank. Do you think it will be a pleasant surprise, {glances at Marshall and Esther significantly,) at this juncture? Edith. 0, Laura can take care of Mr. Grey. Poor man, he needs a consoler. {Exit Frank.) Is it warm out? Esther. {Absently.) 1 don't know,— oh ! rather ! {Re-enter Frank, in excitement.) 24 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Frank. Hide me ! Put me in a closet, behind a screen, any- where ! Only let me not be visible ! Mrs. Willie Wilding is coming up the walk ! Chorus. Horrors ! Edith. Let us be calm. Frank. I am busy writing and cannot be disturbed, — if she remembers my existence, which is not likely. She doesn't approve of me. If she asks for me, tell her I am so sorry to m'iss seeing her ! {Waves his hand and disappears.) Esther. {Grossly.) I think I shall write a book. It insures such complete independence. When Frank doesn't want to be bored, he is engaged in his literary labors. When he wants to do some impossible thing, at some impossible time, relaxation is imperatively necessary. He is writing on the " History of National Idiosyncrasy." People who can understand the title, will no doubt enjoy the book. {Enter Ann, with cards.) Edith. { Taking cards.) Show her out here, Ann. ( To Marshall.) Fortify yourself. Be brave. {Enter Mrs. Wilding, dressed elaborately. Speaks with a pronounced English accent.) Mrs. Wilding. Good morning, Mrs. Howe. How do you do. Miss Bradford ? Charmed to find you. It is such a perfect morning. I said to my husband I was afraid I might miss you. I should have been desolated, you know! {Lays her hand on 3Irs. Ilowe^s arm.) A glimpse of your sweet home always refreshes me. Informality with congenial friends is so precious to me, Mrs. Howe. I said to my husband — A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 25 Edith. {Interrupting her, and designating Marshall, who has turned away to hide his amusement?) Mrs. Wilding, let me present my friend and guest, Mr. Marshall. Marshall. {Bows.) Mrs. "Wilding. Mrs. Wilding. {Advancing with outstretched hand.) Mr. Marshall, do you not remember me? Do you not remenaber that summer three years ago, when life on the island was one round of pleasure ? I was Lizzie Walworth then. {Sighs.) How long ago it seems, does it not? {Edith looks at Esther. Esther has turned away.) Esther. {Aside.) Why did he not tell us he had been here before? {Listens) Marshall. {Embarrassed.) Of course I should have known you anywhere, Mrs. er — Mrs. Wilding. Wilding. Marshall. yes, stupid of me,— Wilding. Time has been very gallant in his attentions. Mrs. Wilding. {Simpers.) 0, thank you, thank you, Mr. Marshall. I am sure I can say the same to you. Do let us sit down, and have a chat over old times. Is it not very interesting to meet here again, after all these years ? Marshall. { Without enthusiasm.) Very. {They sit on sofa; Edith sits across the stage, Esther stands back of them, near the door. Listens intently.) Mrs. Wilding. When I saw you from the piazza, yesterday, I said to my husband, it seemed natural to see you here, but it did seem queer not to see Miss Stone with you. {Laughs.) 26 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. You've no idea how interested we all were in your flirta- tion, Mr. Marshall . We expected to receive cards before Christmas, I assure you. I was telling my husband about it yesterday. He said he thought you must be quite an adept. {Laughs again.) When did you come ? I just came down from the city, day before yesterday. Mr. Wild- ing could not get away before, and I would not leave him, you know. {Enter Mr. Grey. Esther starts violently.) Esther. Oh ! how you startled me! {Leans on back of a chair.) Grey. Did you think I was a burglar? I have never been so flattered. {All laugh excepting Esther. Grey adoayices.) Good morning, ladies. How do you do, Mr. Marshall ? ( They shake hands without cordiality.) Mrs. Wilding. Mr. Marshall and I have been renewing ac- quaintance, Mr. Grey. We met here four summers ago. Grey. Ah, indeed? I did not know Mr. Marshall had been here before. Life must have been somewhat primitive on the island then, Mrs. Wilding. Mrs. Wilding. 0, it was so charmingly informal, don't you know ! There were no cottages, no turnouts, no yachts, no elaborate toilets. But we had such a jolly time, did we not, Mr. Marshall ? Marshall. {Aside.) Endurance will sooa cease to be a virtue ! Esther. {Comes forward; speaks rather haughtily.) It must have been rather disagreeable, I should think. I must confess I like the pomp and circumstance of society. I think there is quite enough informality here, now. A^UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 27 Edith. Esther hasn't a trace of the Bohemienne about her. She is all Philistine. Grey. You perhaps prefer what might be called an informal formality, Miss Bradford ? Esther. {Smiling sweetly.) You put it most epigrammatically, Mr. Grey. {They walk aside together. Marshall stares at them blankly.) Mrs. Wilding. I must really tear myself away from this fasci- nating spot. Your house always makes me break the tenth commandment, Mrs. Howe. Is it not lovely, Mr. Marshall ? Do you remember — Marshall. {Desperately.) May I walk with you, Mrs. Wilding? I am going to the village. Mrs. Wilding. How fortunate ! Good morning, Mrs. Howe. {They shake hands.) I do so enjoy a visit with you ! Run in whenever you can. {Glances at Esther.) I hate to interrupt your sister. How popular she is ! Sweet girl ! I do not wonder, do you, Mr. Marshall ? Good-by, Miss Bradford. See you to-night at the hop, I suppose. Good morning, Mr, Grey. {Exit, followed by Edith and Marshall. He glances at Grey and Esther, as he disappears.) Grey. {Takes out two cards.) Then I may have the first two waltzes, and, {consults his card) let me see — the eighth, — and the tenth, and — may I be greedy and take the eleventh, too ? ( Writes.) Esther. {Indifferently.) I suppose so. {Takes her card without looking at it. Folds it absently.) 28 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Grey. Thanks very much. Will you dance the midnight german with me, Tuesday night? Esther. {Stares at him blankly.) ! oh yes ! When did you say? Tuesday night? Yes, I think so. What a creature Mrs. Wilding is ! Grey. Do jou think so? I rather like to hear her chatter on. She is harmless. Esther. {Icily.) Your taste and mine differ, radically. I dis- like harmless people, exceedingly. Grey. {Takes his hat.) Sorry I haven't a box of dynamite with me, Miss Bradford. As I unfortunately happen to be en- tirely harmless at the present moment, I will efface my- self with rapidity. {Laughs. Esther does not smile.) Good morning. {Stiffly.) Esther. Good morning. {Exit Grey. Esther sits, her hands clasped, staring before her.) Laura Stone ! So she is the girl that — How stupid of me not to remember ! I knew I had heard his name. I should think I had heard it often enough to remember it ! Well, of all the strange things ! {.Leans back.) What a mystery ! He was miserable ; she was miserable. How did it happen ? Why did he not come again ? Laura's aunt saw him. {Pauses.) I never liked her. {Starts up.) I must tell him ! But how can I, — 710W ? It is too much, — Laura would not ask it ! He ought to know. Laura ought to know. {Covers her face with her hands.) But how can I tell him ? If I had only known, — {Enter Marshall. Esther turns as he advances.) A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 29 Esther. Back so soon, Mr. Marshall ? I fancied you deep in the pleasures of reminiscence. Marshall. Spare me, Miss Bradford ! I have escaped. I left my captor with your friend, Mr. Grey. I thought you had forgotten my existence, when I lett. Esther. {Lightly.-) Ko, my memory is not so had as that, though it is faulty. It has just delivered up to me some- thing for which I have ransacked my brain for two weeks. I want to tell you a story, if you have the time and patience to hear it. It will interest you, I am sure. Marshall. Singular coincidence ! I want to tell you a story,— hut I am not so certain it will interest you. Esther. I must tell mine first. {Sits with her face turned from him.) Marshall. May I smoke ? I can listen better if I smoke. Esther. By all means smoke then. But do not be dismayed. I will be brief. Marshall. Let me beg of you not to be. This is so comforta- ble ! Your voice will poultice the wounds Mrs. Wilding's voice made upon my unhappy ears. {Lounges in an easy chair.) Esther. Once upon a time, to begin in the old way, there was a — summer, and a summer hotel, and a man, and a — Marshall. Summer girl. Charming ingredients. But,— I do not wish to appear critical,— they are to be found in all the receipt books of romance, are they not? Esther. Don't find fault with my materials, sir ! This is a true 30 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. story, and I must tell it, as — as it was told to me. This man and ^irl walked, rode, danced, and sailed together, all summer. There were other people present, but they were not disturbing elements. Marshall. Then this is not a true story. Esther. JSTothiug exactly — definite, was said of love, but as the weeks went by, the girl allowed herself to recognize the fact that she — cared for him, and she was certain he cared for her. She was unconventional enough to be frank with her soul, which is unusual, you know. Suddenly one day her — friend, was called away. He went without saying good-by to her, but he left her a note. Marshall. Ah ! {His cigar has gone out.') Esther. Not much of a note, but better than nothing. He told her he was summoned to the sick bed of an uncle ; he would see her in her home, as soon as he could. {Marshall rises; walks to and fro.) Six weeks went by and she heard nothing from him. One evening late in October, on com- ing home from a drive, she found his card. Her aunt said he had waited awhile but finally concluded he must go. He left no message. Marshall. {Standing still, at hack of stage.) No message ? Esther. Not a word. She expected him that night. She ex- pected him all the next day. She has never seen him since. At last, when she could bear her pain and humiliation no longer, alone, she told a friend. {Turns to him.) I am that friend, Mr. Marshall. Laura Stone is the dearest friend I have. Why did you do it? Why did you leave her? A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 31 There has been some terrible mistake. (Pauses. Marshall does not move; stares before him.) When I heard your name, the clay Frank and Edith told me you were coming, I knew I had heard it before, but I could not remember where. (Pauses.') This morning when I heard Mrs. Wilding speak of you and — and — Laura, I remembered everything iu an instant. (Pauses.) Frank and Edith told me of — of your — unhappiness. I do not think I violate confidence un- worthily in telling you that Laura was unhappy. But now — Marshall. (Starting toward her.) ISTow? Esther! (Esther shrinks hack, covering her eyes with one hand. Marshall pauses an instant, then speaks slowly.) Esther, I had a story to tell you. I cannot tell it to you now. Perhaps I can never tell you. (Pauses.) I will tell you instead, the other half of the story you have told me. (Pause.) That man went away from the woman he loved, glowing with hope and happiness. He no more doubted her love for him, than his for her. (Esther sits. Marshall lualks to and fro.) He counted the hours until he finally stood at her door. She was not in, but her aunt entertained him while he waited, by informing him that Miss Stone was driving with the man to whom she was engaged. Esther. 0, wicked ! She did not think of any one but you. Marshall. He wrote on the back of his card, that he would wait at his hotel until the next night, and that a word would bring him to her. (Smiles bitterly.) You see he was an incredulous fool. (Pauses.) To this day, Esther, he does not like to remember the hours during: which he 32 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. waited for that message. It did not come. He went back to ITew York, sailed next day for France, and — you know the rest. Esther. Laura never saw your messa^^e. Poor ^irl ! How you were cheated out of your happiness ! She must know of this, Mr. Marshall. Think ! She has suffered, too. Marshall. I cannot think of her suffering. I have forgotten my own, — in this last two weeks. I wonder now, that I ever — Esther. {Hastily.) You must see her. You can explain, — everything will come right — {She turns away from him; he takes her hand, luhich she slowly loithdraws.) Marshall. Esther, you do not mean what you say ! You know — Esther. {Gently.) I know you will do what is right. Marshall. Do you bid me go to her ? Esther. {After a moment's silence.) Yes. {Enter Frank, Edith and Laura. Laura advances softly, and puts her hands over Esther's eyes. Does not recog- nize Marshall. He stares at her. Esther draws away Laura's hands, and looks back.) Esther. Laura ! {Laura kisses her.) Edith. Miss Stone, Mr. Marshall. {They stare at each other.) Curtain. A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 33 Scene II. Scene, the same. One day elapses bettveen first and second scenes. Laura discovered writing. Lays down her pen, laughing. Laura. It is a trifle mortifying to tell your confideutial friend that you are in love with a man, and breaking your heart because he is not — reciprocal ; then be obliged to tell her, the next time you see her,that you are engaged — to another man ! True, several years have elapsed. But when you vowed you* would never, never, never forget, a year or two don't count. And Esther is so — exacting! She will not take into consideration the diversion of foreign travel. I could not write her! I thought I could tell her in some diplomatic fashion. But, oh dear! I wish now I had written her ! There don't seem to be any easy, — graceful way of putting it ! (Pauses.) And to find the man who was the cause of all the tears and sighs, the hero of the un- finished romance, right in the house with you ! It's as good as a play ! only I would rather watch it, than take one of the leading roles. I never cared much for theatricals. — But the best of it all is that they're in love with each other ! I'm almost sure. That will have a tendency to render Miss Esther lenient ! I fancy she will prefer to ignore the past. (Laughs.) There are subjects more entertaining to a girl than the old love affairs of her fiance'. It amused me to watch her, last night at the hop. I fancy she thought I was rather cheerful for an inconsolable. (Laughs.) The idea of my ever caring for Horace Marshall seems absurd now. When I think of Joe, I wonder what I ever saw in 34 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. any other man ! It is a decidedly piquant situation. I shall rather enjoy telling Horace Marshall I'm engaged. How fortunate it is that I am! It really might be a little awkward, if I were not. {Enter Marshall. Laura turns her head and nods gaily as he advances.) Ah, Mr. Marshall ! Your appearance is most ^a propos. I was just thinking of the gay times we had on the island, — let me see — what summer loas it ? Among so many gay summers, it is hard to tell which is which. Marshall. (Smiles.') Yes, the summers are piling up. But in my mind, some stand out distinctly. The summer you refer to is one of those I could never forget. It was three years ago, wasn't it? Laura. Oh, yes! So it was. How the island has changed, hasn't it? The improvement is astonishing. I looked around for some old landmark, yesterday, on my way up from the wharf, and really I don't think I saw one. The great wave still rolls in, down by the breakwater, but I can't think of anything else that hasn't changed. Marshall. You have changed very little, Miss Stone. Laura. How uncomplimentary ! I certainly should be very unwilling to think I had not changed — completely, in three years. I will be kinder to you. I think you greatly improved, — though it is hard to remember what one was, or what one's friends were, so long ago as four summers ! {Marshall turns his head away to hide a smile.) I rather dis- like to recollect how frivolous I was, in my salad days. Marshall. Now it's just the other way with me. I like to re- A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 35 member my — inanity. By comparison, I am enabled to regard my present self with some degree of complacency. (Aside.) I rather fancy that balances our account, Miss Stone ! Laura. That is a recompense, isn't it ? You are something of a philosopher, Mr. Marshall. Well, the island certainly is a very attractive spot, isn't it ? It does not pale in com- parison with some of the vaunted resorts of Europe. I have just been writing to Mr. Hinton, painting the place in such glowing tints, that he will not be able to resist coming down, I am sure. But perhaps you do not know, Mr. Marshall, (loith affected shyness), that my engagement to Mr. Hinton has been announced ? We have been receiving congratulations for two weeks. Marshall. Then permit me to ofier mine, {l^hey shake hands.) I reserve my warmest for the fortunate Mr. Hinton. Can it be possible that it is " Joey" Hinton, as we used to call him, who was at Harvard while I was at Yale ? {Sits again.') Laura. Yes. Do you know him ? Marshall. Many a hard fight have we had on the base ball diamond Miss Stone, — and liked each other more at the end of every tussle ! I can congratulate you heartily. Joe is a prince of good fellows, — and has no equal as a short- stop ! That last qualification is, of course, very important. A man's training on the ball ground is of great service to him in the law. I've no doubt Hinton finds it as invalua- ble as I do. Laura. And can't I congratulate you, Mr. Marshall ? Surely you have not been idle all this time ? 36 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Marshall. I'm afraid I haven't been as enterprising as I should. I have been dawdling about Europe in a most reprehensi- ble fashion. I shall make up for lost time, now. (Smiles. Laura rises, her writing materials in a portfolio, which she carries.) Laura. I see Esther coming, so if I run away to finish my let- ter, you will not be lonely. (Smiles rlrjnijicantly . Exit.) Marshall. <' Walks, hands in pockets.) That was clever. Very clever. (Laughs.) But I fancy Miss Stone would not have had so much fun with me, if she knew what I know. How did I happen to fall in love with her? She is attractive, but compared with Esther ! — (Enter Esther, somevjhat dejectedly. Stops as she sees Mar- shall. He advances to meet her.) I have been waiting for you, Miss Bradford. I have a great piece of news. (Esther sits on sofa. Holds a magazine, with which she plays somewhat nervously.) Esther. Religious, scientific, or political ? Marshall. Religious. That is, it concerns one of the holy sacraments of the church. Miss Stone is engaged to be married. Esther. Oh ! Marshall. Yes, I have had the felicity of congratulating her. It struck me when I first saw her, that there was no hope for me. She seemed so resigned to my — defection. I rather think she was congratulating herself upon her escape, A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. ' 37 and singing hymns of praise to her star of destiny. I sing also, and give thanks. {A'p'proaehes sofa.) She wishes me to understand that she has forgotten that fragment of a romance. She says she doesn't like to remember how frivolous she was four summers ago. ( They laugh.') This is not flattering, but it makes me happier than any thing she could say. You see, Esther, (leans on sofa, just behind her) there is no reason now, why I should not tell you that story I spoke of yesterday, — if you will listen. Esther. Is it long ? Marshall. It has an elastic quality. It can be made either long or short. It is calculated to suit almost any taste. { Esther. I like short stories. Marshall. I will be exceeding brief. I — Esther. Is it a true story ? Marshall. Truth is no truer. Esther. (Per-versely.) 1 prefer fairy stories. Marshall. I seem to be unfortunate in my selection, but my stock of tales is not large. I will not urge you further. If you want to hear it, hold up your right hand. My time is limited. Please be prompt. {They laugh. Esther slowly raises her hand, which Marshall takes in both his, leaning near her.) Esther. (Hastily, looking up at him.) But, Horace, does Laura — know ? Marshall. (Nods negatively.) Has no suspicion. She seemed to have but a vague idea of me, (laughs), and I did not at- tempt to render myself distinct to her memory. 38 A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. Esther. ( With a sigh of relief.) I am glad. Still, {anxiously)^ I think I did right to tell yon. Marshall. (Seriously.) Yes. I am glad you did. I am glad to know that Miss Stone is not what I thought her, a heart- less flirt. But you know she will always think I am ! How will you like that ? No woman likes to have it thought that her husband was a flirt. Esther. (Demurely.) I don't see that that has anything to do with me. Marshall. What duplicity ! Esther. (Taming to him again, suddenly.) But you haven't told me to whom Laura is engaged. It's queer . She hasn't said one word about it to me. Perhaps she is ashamed to. (Laughs.) Think of the sympathy I have been wasting ! Who is your usurper ? Marshall. Joe Hinton, of Providence. A good fellow, too. I know him well. Esther. Joe Hinton ? (Rises.) Well, this is too funny ! 31arshall. Why, you don't mean to say he was one of your — Esther. (Nods affirmatively.) Isn't it the queerest thing ? Marshall. Queer enough to make the Fates themselves chuckle ! ( They stand face to face, smiling at each other.) It's such a symmetrical joke ! When our engagement is announced, and Iliuton comes down here, nothing will be wanting to make the situation entertaining. A UNIQUE COINCIDENCE. 39 {Enter Frank and Edith. They advance as Frank speaks. Marshall and Esther are laughing.) Frank. It isn't fair for you two to keep such a good thing all to yourselves. You are violating the most important by-law of the Frivolity Club. " No member allowed to hold personal property in the shape of jokes or puns. All such property to be held in common, the President of the club to be trustee." Divide ! Marshall. Curb yonr curiosity! Some day Esther (takes her hand,) will tell you. Frank and Edith. Oh ! {Come forward, Edith seizing Marshall's disengaged hand; Frank, Esther's, forming a line across stage.) Esther. In the meantime you must be content to know that we were discussing a strikingly " UNIQUE COINCIDENCE.'' Curtain. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS