PRICE TWENTY-FIVE CENTS PMer friend the enemy BY HARRY VAN DEMARK THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY PHILADELPHIA SHOEMAKER'S BEST SELECTIONS For Redwdin^s and Recit&.tions Nos, I to 27 Now Issued Paper Binding, each number* • • • 3(0 cents Cloth " •« •« • • . 50 cento Teachers, Readers, Students, and all persons who have had occasion to use books of this kind, concede this to be the best series of speakers published. The different numbers are compiled by leading elocution- ists of the country, who have exceptional facilities for securing selections, and whose judgment as to their merits is invaluable. No trouble or expense ip spared to obtain the very best readings and recitations, and much material is used by special arrangement with other publishers, thus securing the best selections from such American authors as Longfellow, Holmes, Whittier, Lowell, Emerson, Alice and Phoebe Gary, Mrs. Stowe, and many others. The foremost Eng- lish authors are also represented, as well as the leading French and German writers. This series was formerly called "The Elocution- ist's Annual," the first seventeen numbers being pub- lished under that title. While the primary purpose of these books is to supply the wants of the public reader and elocution- ist, nowhere else can be found such an attractive col- lection of interesting short stories for home reading. Sold by all booksellers and newsdealers, or mailed upon receipt of price. The Penn Publishing Company 023 Arch Street. Philadelptafa I Her Friend the Enemy A War Drama in Four Acts BY HARRY VAN DEMARK Author of "THE TEXAN." "ALONG THE MISSOURI." etc. PHILADELPHIA THE PENN PUBLISHING COMPANY 1911 Copyright 1911 by The Penn Publishing Company lier friend the Enemy ©CID 23180 Her Friend, the Enemy CAST OF CHARACTERS Captain Jack Fernbrook, U. S. A. . . . Who holds honor above all Frank Fleming A scapegrace Colonel James Burton, C. S. A., With strong cofwictions Lieutenant Berkeley Burton, C. S. A. . . His son Zebediah Jenks Yank to the backbone LiGE A negro servant Diana Burton 0/ Richmond Mrs. Burton Her mother Addie Jenks Zebediah' s daughter Aunt Chloe Lige's better half Union and Confederate soldiers, etc. Time in Representation : — Two and a half hours. SYNOPSIS Act I. — Zebediah's farm in the Berkshire Hills of Massa- chusetts. (" Fort Sumter Has Fallen ! ") Act II. — Parlor of Colonel Burton's home in Richmond, April I, 1865. (The Return of the Old Love.) Act III. — The same, April 2. ("Sergeant, There Lies Your Man ! ") Act IV. — The same, April 3. (The Fate of a Traitor.) There is a lapse of four years between Acts I and II. The action of Acts II, III, and IV occurs on the day of the entrance of the Union army into Richmond and the two days preceding. COSTUMES AND CHARACTERISTICS All costumes and properties (such as pistols, for example) should be of the period of the Civil War, though ex- actness in this respect is not necessary to the success of the play. All the younger characters should appear a little older in Acts II, III and IV than in Act I. Jack Fernbrook. Act I, about twenty-one. Outdoor suit and hat, or West Pointer's uniform, if preferred. Acts II and III, faded blue trousers, no coat. Act IV, blue uniform of captain in Federal army. Frank Fleming. Civilian costume throughout. Act I, about twenty-one years of age. Outdoor suit and hat. Wears another suit in last three acts of play. May wear Confederate uniform in last three acts, if pre- ferred. Colonel Burton. About fifty. Uniform of Confederate colonel. Berkeley Burton. About thirty. Uniform of Confeder- ate lieutenant. Zebediah Jenks. About sixty. Farmer's costume, over- alls, straw hat, etc., in Act I. In Act IV, blue uni- form. LiGE. About fifty. Stout, and cheerful. Act I, plain dark suit and hat, and carries bundle. In other acts, indoor costume of Southern negro. Diana Burton. In Act I, about nineteen. Well dressed throughout, with indoor costumes. Change of cos- tume after Act I and may wear same costume in Acts II, III and IV, or a different costume in each, as pre- ferred. Mrs. Burton. About fifty. Well but plainly dressed. May wear same costume throughout. Addie Jenks. In Act I, about eighteen. Same costume directions as for Diana, except that in Act I her dress should appear rather more "countrified " than Diana's. Aunt Chloe. About fifty. Costume of colored " mammy " — apron, briglit turban, etc. A Few Soldiers, in Confederate and Federal uniforms. PROPERTIES Act I. — For Zebediah, old straps to represent harness, handkerchief. For Lige, bundle. Act II. — For Lige, duster, photograph, stool. For Mrs. Burton, call-bell. For Fleming, cigarette, paper, key. For Diana, book, revolver. For Berkeley, re- volver. Act III. — For Chloe, rope. For Fleming, revolver, note, paper, pen, ink. For Fernbrook, revolver. For Lige, revolver, handkerchief. Act IV. — For Lige, revolver, and old rag for polishing furniture. For Diana, book. For Fleming, key, re- volver. For Addie, fire-tongs. SCENE PLOTS Act I CANDi$QAP£ DaOJ9 ' 1 1 GATE \ re-j^cg IJi ^^^CL tVOOO r r ty/NQa ^£THOUi$e _^^ Scene. — Zebediah 's farm in Massachusetts. Landscape drop, house, with porch and steps, and practicable door, r. Picket pence across back, with gate c. Tree and bench down c. Well up L. (may be omitted). Wood wings, l. SCENE PLOTS Scene. — Parlor in Colonel Burton's Richmond home. Practicable fireplace up c. Doors l. c. and r. Table and chairs down r. c. Rockers down r. and up l. Sofa down l. Bookcase l. Her Friend, the Enemy ACT I SCENE. — Lafidscape drop in 4 or ^, representing hills ^ dotted with farms. House with porch and steps ex- tending from R. I to ^. 3. Picket fence with practical gate c. , across stage at back. Trecy with rustic seat befteathy c. Well, up l. (^Discovered, Zebediah Jenks, sitting on bench under tree, mending harness and chewing tobacco vigorously. Finally lays harness dowji with a deep sigh.) Zeb. I reckon I'm a gol-dinged fool fer monkeyin' with theni old straps what have had their day long ago. Lemme see, now — why, I've had that 'ere set o' harness ever since I was married, an' that was nigh onto thirty year ago. Well, well — how time does fly ! Yes, sir, I'd hardly think it, but it's thirty year. {Laughter heard in house.) Now, listen at that, would ye? Them gals has been havin' a high ole time since Dianar come. They don't realize what a dark war cloud's hangin' over th* ken try. I s'pose events in this na- tion's hist'ry have about reached a crisis. (Medita- tively.) I — I wish Dianar wasn't from th' South, fer I love th' gal almost like she were my own darter, instid o' my niece. I s'pose sister Mary, an' Berkeley, an' th' ole colonel '11 shake me good an' proper when th' war breaks out. Guess they've shook me anyhow. Ain't none o* *em been near us, 'cept Dianar, since Mary went South to live. Well, we won't worry over th' matter, Zebediah, we won't worry over it. Th' Creator made all things as He wants 'em, an' I s'pose it'll all come out accordin' to Scriptur'. Addie Jenks (^from house). Papa ! Oh, papa ! Zeb. Yes, darter ; what be it ? 7 HER FRIEND, THE ENE3IY Addie. Well, where are you ? Zeb. Out here under th' tree. {Enter Addie atid Diana Burton /r^;;/ house.') Addie. Well, we've been hunting all over the place for you. Zeb. An' is this 'ere place so tarnation big 'at ye can't find yer ole pa when ye wants him? He! he! Who'd a-thunk it ? ( Chuckles softly. ) Addie. Stop your joking, for we've something to tell you. Haven't we, Diana? Diana. We surely have, and we've been searching every- where for you, and now we find you patching your old straps. Zeb. I'm seein' if I can't fix 'em so's they'll go till fall. Nothin' like economy, ye know. Addie. Oh, you're always saying that. We'd get along a lot better, if we spent a little money now and then. I wish I had the runnin' of the bank account. {To Diana.) Papa and I would have the time of our lives — you can bet on that. Diana. What would you do ? Addie. Well, first, I'd have about six new dresses — that is, summer dresses — and next fall I'd have six more for winter. I'd buy papa three new suits, two for every- day and one for Sunday. I'd have a lot of new dishes, a settee for the parlor, and then I'd get {Interrupted.') Zeb. {chuckling). Then you'd git up some mornin' an' wonder where th' bank account was. Diana. Your notions are too extravagant, Addie. I reckon, anyway, that Uncle Zeb can run the bank ac- count without your assistance. Can't you. Uncle Zeb? Zeb. {absently). H'm? Er — well, I should say so. Diana. Why, Uncle Zeb, what's the matter? I never knew you to look so solemn before. Zeb. I was jest thinkin' how much Addie reminds me o' her mother this mornin'. Molly an' me used to set out here under th' spreadin' branches o' this same ole oak. I like to think o' them days. Every time I'd come from town I'd find her waitin' here for me. An' when 8 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY I'd spring out o* th' wagon, she'd run toward me, an* her arms'd close about me like a vise, till I'd fairly wonder at th' strength of 'em. She'd call me sweet names, an' pat my cheeks, an' smooth my hair, till I was fairly staggered with th' sweetness o' her. But them times is gone, an' Molly with 'em, an' — but pshaw ! there's no use grievin' over what can't be helped. (^Wipes eyes with handkerchief and sniffles a little,) Diana. Not a bit of use, Uncle Zeb. Addie. Well, I ain't worrying — at least, not over the things that have gone by. It's those that are coming that worry me. Zeb. Good reason, too. Sure as I'm a-settin* here there's a hot time ahead o' this kentry. Th' grumblin's have been growin' louder an' louder, jes' like Uncle Sam's big nation was a volcaner, gittin' ready to spit fire an' smoke. Diana. Do you really and truly think there will be war, Uncle Zeb ? Zeb. O' course there will. You women folks don't realize how ser'ous this 'ere business is. This war cloud's goin' to burst one o' these fine days, an' when she do, well, there'll be th' deuce to pay in earnest. Diana. I don't see why people cannot agree and remain at peace. War is such a terrible thing. Zeb. Folks can't agree, 'cause they wa'n't built that-a-way. Th' good Lord made 'em to side agin one annuther, I s'pose, an' that's what they been a-doin' ever since Adam an' Eve et th' ferbidden fruit, an' Cain knocked th' stuiiSn' out o* Abel. Addie. Well, I'm glad I'm not a man. Women folks may be poor innocent creatures, but they don't have to shoulder a gun and fight each other. Zeb. No; women ain't built that-a-way, tho' they gits somewhat rambunkshus at times. A woman's borned to be looked at, an' do th' housework. A man feels proud o' a good woman. Diana. Especially if she can add beauty to her other virtues — eh, Uncle Zeb ? Zeb. Oh, th' looks don't count fer so much. 9 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Addie. Well, I s'pose handsome is as handsome does, but it saves a lot of trouble to be born good-looking. Zeb. Oh, a combination o' looks an' quality ain't sich a bad idee, come to think over it. {Hising, he walks up toward the gate, shading his eyes luith his hajid.) Huh ! There's some feller jest a-steppin' it up the road. I never see a man walk so fast in all my life. Wonder who it kin be ? (Addie and Diana peer over his shoulder.) See, there he is — no, that-a-way. Now ! D'ye see him? (The girls nod.) Addie. Why, it's an old negro. VVhat can he be wanting out this way? Some poor tramp, 1 suppose. Come, Diana, let's go and get him something to eat, and a glass of cool water. It's a pretty warm day for April. Zeb. Well, ye'd better hurry. He'll be here in a minute. I'll stop him, if he don't do it hisself. (^Exeunt T>ia.]^ a and Addie into house.) H'm — there's durn few nig- gers around these parts. Hope it ain't no fugitive slave. I don't wanter git mixed up in no scrape like that. Well, I'll hail 'im. {Cups hands at mouth and calls.) Hello, there ! {Pause.) He didn't hear me. I say, hello, there ! LiGE {off I..). Hello, yo'self, sah ! {Enter Lige, along fence at back, and stops before gate, ) Zeb. Howdy do — where might ye be goin' ? Lige. I's lookin' fer a plantation, sah. Zeb. \y'yQ think this is Virginny, er South Caroliny ? We calls 'em farms up here. Lige. I don't know nuffin' 'bout dat, sah, but I's got ter find Mistah Zeberdiar Jenks. Zeb. H'm. Have, eh? Lige. Yas'r. I wants him bad, sah. Does yo' happen tuh know him ? Zeb. Yep — known him fer over fifty year. That's me I'm Zebediah Jenks. Now, what kin I do fer ye? Lige {his voice trembling). I wants tuh see mah Miss Dianar. I's come all de way frum Virginny ter see dat gal — mah lil* missy ! Zeb. {delighted). So you're Lige, eh ? Shake ! O' course ye kin see Dianar. She'll be out in a minute, so come in an' sit down. But what in th' name o' time brings ye way up here, an' what news d'ye bring o* th* war ? lO HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY LiGE {e7itering through gate^ he deposits bundle on porch). Well, sah, I reckon dey's suah ernuff gwine ter fight, 'cause Marse Kunnel he done send me all de way up heah ter brung lil' missy home. Says he tuh me: "Lige, yo' git dat gal o' mine, an' under no circum- squenches fail ter take care ob her. " An' I says : * ' Marse Kunnel, 1 'cepts de trust — yo' lil' gal shall be safe in yo' arms jes' as soon as I kin bring her to yuh." So dat's how I comes ter be heah, sah. Zeb. {testily). Why didn't Burton come hisself? Is he 'fraid o' his kin folks ? LiGE. He's done been 'pinted to a command in de Confed'- rate ahmy, sah, an' he's got all de work he can ten' ter a-drillin' sogers. He'd like t' hab come, but he jes' couldn't get ervvay, an* de same wif Marse Berkeley. {Enter Addie and Diana from house, the former carrying a tray.) Diana {starting). Why, it's Lige ! (LiGE rushes over, and seizing her hands, drops on his knees iti front of her.) LiGE. Lil' missy — lil' missy ! Hit suah does dese ole eyes good ter see yo'-all once mo'. Diana. Well, get up and tell me what this means. You don't bring me bad news ? Lige. Well, I reckon hit could be wuss, lil' missy. De kunnel hab done sent fo' yo* ter come home. Diana. To come home ? Then there is to be war, after all. Lige. Yas'm, an' de kunnel he say yo' mus' get home afore hit starts. You'll come, won't yo', lil* missy? Diana. Why, of course, Lige. We'll start to-night. Addie. Oh, say, this is a shame — that's what it is. Why, she ain't been here a week, and here you come pulling her away, and all on account of some old war they think is going to happen. Zeb. There, now, Addie. You're gabbin' 'bout somethin' ye don't know nothin' 'bout. James Burton's sent fer Dianar, an' it ain't fer us to go agin his wishes. {Takes Diana's hand.) Gal, your Uncle Zeb hates to see ye go, but I s'pose it's all fer th' best. Ye couldn't be contented so far from yer folks, an' them a-fightin'. II HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Addie. I jest knew something' d have to happen to spoil our good time. Zeb. Well, Dianar's got all day t' stay yet. The train won't leave till seven o'clock. Diana. And we needn't be separated long, Addie, dear; for you can come to Richmond in spite of the war. Addie. Yes, and get shot up into little, teeny, tiny bits. Oh, no — excuse me ! Zeb. {scratching head). That gives me an idee. Ye see, when this here war breaks out I'm goin' to th' front if they'll have me, an' it's been botherin' me as t' what I'm goin' to do with Addie. So Dianar, why can't ye take her along with ye t' Richmond ? Diana {delighted). To-night, Uncle Zeb ? Zeb. Sure. Addie. Oh, pa, to-night? Won't that be fine? Zeb. Th' war ain't goin' t' last long, if it starts, an' when it's over Addie can come back an' bring you with her, Dianar. Diana. It could not be arranged to please me more. Addie. And I'm so tickled that I can't wait till train time. {Enter Frank Fleming, through gate from l.) Fleming. Good-morning, all. {Comes down c.) Zeb. Well, if it ain't Frank Fleming, come home from West P'int. Fleming. You've hit the nail squarely on the head, Mr. Jenks. How do you do. Miss Burton — I haven't seen you since your last visit to the Point. Diana {giving him her hand). How are you, sir ? Fleming {taki?ig Addie's hand). And my little country belle — how is she ? Addie. Oh, I'm all right, Frank, only you should have written me. Fleming. To tell the truth, I didn't know I was coming until the last moment. I arrived only an hour ago. Zeb. Vacation ? Fleming. No — er — that is — well, I wanted to see my folks before the war is on, you know. Addie. But Frank, where' s your uniform ? Fleming. Why, you see, 1 — I've just changed to citizen's clothes — more appropriate for the country, don't you think ? 12 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Zeb. An' what do you think about the war ? Fleming. Bound to come — just as inevitable as — well, as fate. Zeb. And you'll be fightin' fer th' North, of course ? Fleming. Well, now, do you know, I haven't decided. Zeb. What's that ? Why, it don't seem to me that a West P' inter could have any choice. Fleming {laughing lightly). Well, the South needs West Pointers, too, doesn't it ? Addie. You should be ashamed to talk that way. Fleming. Oh, come, Addie, don't be hard on a fellow. I suppose after all I shall fight for the North. Addie (laying a hand on his shoulder). Do it, Frank, to please me. Fleming. I'd do most anything for you, Addie. Diana. Will you excuse me ? I am going to see about packing my trunk. Fleming. You are not leaving, Miss Burton ? Diana. Yes; I go South to-night. (Turns.) Come, Lige — I shall need your help. I trust I shall see you later, Mr. Fleming. Fleming. I shall make it a point to see you before I leave, Miss Burton. (Exeunt into house, Diana and Lige.) Zeb. (laying a hand on Fleming's shoulder). I reckon you was jokin' about bein' undecided, wa'n't you, Frank? If it comes to war, you'll fight to preserve th' Union, won't ye? Fleming. Mr. Jenks, you may rest assured that I shall be on the right side. Zeb. Yes? Well, that's good. I'd kinder hate t' see a fine young feller like you go t' th' bad. (Exit, R.) Addie. I hate to see you go to the front, Frank ; but I know it's your duty. Fleming. Does it mean so much to you, Addie ? Addie, You know without asking. But what's the matter, Frank? Something has happened — something which you are afraid to tell me. What is it ? 13 BER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Flkming (jmeasiiy). No ; you're wrong, Addie. Noth- ing — nothing unusual — has happened. Addie. Look me in the eye ! There's no use tryin' to deceive me. We've known each other since we were little playmates at school. Now, tell me — are you going to fight for the North ? Fleming (evasively). Addie, you haven't said anything to your father about — about us? Addie. No ; I haven't dared. Wait till the war is over. When you come home covered with glory, I am sure he will be glad to welcome you as his son, Fleming (caressing her). It's all right, then. Now, I want to ask a favor. Addie. A favor ? Fleming. Yes ; I want a few words with Miss Burton, just to talk over old times, you know. You see she worships West Point, and any news is sure to be wel- come. Will you ask her to come out here and leave us alone for a few minutes ? Addie (slowly). I — I — why, yes, of course, if you say so, Frank. I'll tell her this minute. But — Frank Fleming. Yes. Addie. You'll — you'll see me again before you go ? Fleming. Yes, as often as you wish, only do as I ask. Addie. All right, Frank. (Exit into house ^ slowly , looking over her shoulder.) Fleming. Poor, foolish little chit. Believes everything I tell her. But she'll serve ray purpose well. It won't do to tell these people that I've been drummed out of West Point in disgrace. But if all goes smoothly with the fair Diana, I go South to fight. If not, I may slick to the North, and no one will be the wiser. (Enter Y^iMiA.,from house.) Diana. Addie said you wished to see me alone, Mr. Fleming ? Fleming. Yes — I — I — that is, just a few moments, if it isn't asking too much. Diana. Very well, sir. Fleming Will you be seated ? Diana. Yes, thank you. (Sits under tree.) Fleming. The — the matter about which I wish to speak, 14 HER FRIEND, THE ENE3fY Miss Burton, has long laid heavily on ray mind. Ever since I first saw you at the ball at West Point 1 have worshipped you. Diana (^rising). Mr. Fleming, I (^Inierrtipted. Addie appears in doorway ^ listenmg.') Fleming. Hear me out. Miss Burton. You have been very gracious to me, and have, I know, never offered me more than an ordinary degree of encouragement. But I can no longer remain silent. War is almost upon us, and I feel that a question of such importance to me should be settled before I depart for the front. (^Varying emotions show themselves on the face ^ Addie.) Diana (coolly). As you say, sir, I have given you no encouragement. Why, then, should you presume? Fleming. Because I love you. That is my only excuse. 1 have hoped against hope almost that you could find it possible to give me at least a corner in your heart. Miss Burton. It would seem strange, I know, that a girl so sweet and beautiful as yourself should care for rae. But the suspense had grown unbearable. Can you give me no assurance that you might learn to love me ? Diana. I trust I shall always regard you as a friend, Mr. Fleming. Fleming (taking a step toward her). Nothing closer than a friend. Miss Burton ? Diana. Nothing. Fleming. For the present, then, I shall bow to the inevi- table. But I shall win you yet. You are the only girl I have ever loved or ( Interrupted. ) Addie (running quickly c.). Oh, you deceiver, you mean, despicable wretch ! (Fists clenched J she faces him, panting.') Fleming (after looking at her for a moment, laughing). I thought my little scheme would work. So you've been listening ? Addie. Yes, I have; but you lied to her — I say you lied ! Fleming. Well, have it that way, if you wish. (Turns aivay.) However, I may as well tell you that I was 15 HER FRIEND, TEE ENEMY talking in that manner to Miss Burton to test your love for me. I knew all the time you were standing in the doorway. Addie. I don't believe you ! Fleming. Then there is no need for explanations. In spite of all you have told me, you do not love nw.. I might have known you would have doubted me. Addie (^seizing his hand). Frank, don't talk that way to me. You'll break my heart. 1 do love you — I do — I do. Please do not doubt me. Fleming {assuming anger). Well, you have a poor way of showing it. Addie. I'll — I'll admit it was wrong to listen ; but — but it meant so much to me. Diana. Suppose, Addie, we give Mr. Fleming the benefit of the doubt. If he really made a declaration of love to me for the purpose of testing you, he cannot fail to be satisfied with the result. Fleming {bowing). Thank you. Miss Burton. Addie. Say you forgive me, Frank, and I'll ne\'er doubt you again. Fleming. Of course, I forgive you. {Puts arjn around her. To Diana.) Miss Burton, I trust you will not mention this little affair to Mr. Jenks. Addie {quickly). No — no; don't tell papa for anything, Diana. Diana. You may trust me. {Enter Zeb., r. At the approach of her father, Addie has separated herself from Fleming's embrace.) Addie. I thought you had gone to town, papa. Zeb. Jest where I'm makin' for now, Addie. I'm goin* tuh git th* mail, an' see if there's any news from Wash- ington. I'll be back presendy. {Exit, through gate, filling a?id lighting his pipe.) Fleming. Come, Addie, let's take a stroll in the garden. I've something to tell you. I am sure Miss Burton will excuse us. Diana. Indeed, yes, {Exeunt Fleming and Addie back of house. Diana seaJs herself on bench under tree.) Now, I wonder what he means ? I don't like his looks, and never did. He seemed terribly in earnest in telling i6 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY me of his love. I don't believe I would care to trust a man like that. Perhaps, though, as he says, he was testing Addie's love. {^Etiter Captain Jack Fern- brook through gate from l. PauseSy when he sees Diana, then tiptoes softly dow?i behind tree, and reach- ing aroiifid, puts his hands over her eyes. She starts, but quickly recovers herself and laughs.) You thought to fool me, didn't you, Lige ? {No answer. Fern- brook, s?niling, peeps from behind the tree.) There, now, Lige; that will do. You may release me. {To herself, suddenly.) Perhaps it isn't Lige. No; it's Uncle Zeb. He didn't go to the village after all. (Fernbrook, peeping around, grins broadly.) How about it, Uncle Zeb? I've guessed you, so please take your hands away. {No answer.) Who are you, any- way? I demand to know who is taking such liberties with my eyes. {Laughs.) Fernbrook {disguising voice to a deep bass). Guess again ! Diana. Oh, I know you now. You are Mr. Fleming. Fernbrook. Mr. Fleming ! To think of all the people in the world, you should guess that fellow. {Releasing her, he goes down r.) Diana {delighted, springing up). Jack ! {She rushes to him, seizing his hands. He looks cautiously around, and seeing no one takes her in his arms and kisses her.) Fernbrook. For that kiss, all is forgiven ! Diana. Well, don't smother me. {He releases her.) When did you come ? Fernbrook. On the train, not an hour ago. I'd have been here sooner, but I stopped to see my mother. Diana. Mothers before sweethearts, eh ? Fernbrook. It's not that. She was expecting me — wait- ing for me. Diana. You say you came on the train an hour ago ? Fernbrook. Yes. Diana. Then you saw Mr. Fleming ? Fernbrook. Yes. Has he been out here ? Diana. He is here now. He and Addie have gone for a stroll in the garden. 17 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Fernbrook. H'm. I shall keep my eye on him. If Addie knew of his conduct at VVest Point, she (^Interrupted. ) Diana. His conduct ? What do you mean ? Fernbrook. I — I — don't ask me now. I can't tell you. I Diana. How long are you going to stay ? Fernbrook. I am on leave of absence, pending a settlement of this dispute between the North and South. I wanted to see my mother, and you, girlie, before trouble breaks out in earnest. Diana. Tell me. Jack, are we really, truly, going to have war ? Fernbrook. There is not the slightest doubt of it. The South still insists that she has a right to withdraw from the Union. We must teach her a lesson. She must know what it means to rebel against the Federal gov- ernment. Diana (draiuing aivay). You cannot slander the South in my presence, sir. You forget that I am a Southern girl! Fernbrook {seizing her hand). Forgive me, Diana. I did forget. Not for anything in the world would I give offense to you. But we cannot all think alike, you know. Diana. Oh, Jack, I wish you, too, were for the South. Fernbrook. I know you do, girlie — I know you do, but — well, let's not speak of that now. I {Inter- rupted. ) Diana {archly). Are you sure I could not win you over? Fernbrook. Quite sure. My decision is made. Nothing could make me alter it. Diana. Not even the girl you love ? Fernbrook {slowly). No ; not even the girl I love ! {Enter Addie and Fleming front behind house.) Addie. Why, there's Jack Fernbrook ! (To Fleming.) Why didn't you tell us that Jack came, too ? Fleming {carelessly). To tell the truth, I had forgotten it. Addie. I'm so glad to see you, Jack. {They shake hands.) Fernbrook. And I you, Addie. i8 HER FBIEiM), THE ENEMY (He looks sternly at Fleming, who walks over and coolly offers his hand. Fernbkook gives it a contemptuous glance and turns down stage to Diana.) Fleming {shrugging shoulders). Oh, as you will. Addie (Jo Fernbrook). What do you mean by not taking Frank's hand when he offers it in a friendly manner ? You've no right to treat a friend of mine that way. Fernbrook. Pardon me, but 1 have every right to treat Mr. Fleming that way. Addie. What has he done to you ? Fernbrook. I decline to say. If Mr. Fleming wishes to tell you he may. Addie {turning to Fleming). Frank, what does he mean ? Fleming. I am at a loss to know. {Smiles sneer ingly at Fernbrook.) Fernbrook. Will you force me to tell them ? (Diana goes up near gate, as if to avoid discussion.') Fleming. It is immaterial to me ; suit your pleasure. Diana. There is some one coming up the road in a hurry. Addie. It may be papa. {Goes up, shades eyes with hand and looks off i..) It is, and he's terribly excited over something. What can be the matter with him? Fleming {turni?ig). Nothing serious, I hope. He prob- ably has news. Addie {calling). What's the matter, papa — what's the matter? {Enter Zeb. on the run, pausing at gate to catch his breath.) Fernbrook. What is it, Mr. Jenks ? Is there news from the front ? Zeb. News? Well, I should say so, and bad news, too. Th' war is on. Fernbrook. The war is on ? Tell us — how do you know ? Zeb. I met Bill Smith. He — he says they just got news at th' tellygraph office that Fort Sumter has fallen. Fernbrook. Good heavens ! Tell us about it. Was the loss heavy ? Zeb. {as all come down stage). Th' loss wasn't much — 19 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY that is, not in men. Beauregard had the fort sur- rounded, an' upon Major Anderson's refusal t' surren- der he opened lire. Anderson give 'em hot shot fer thirty blessed hours. Then his ammynition run low an' he had to haul down his flag. President Lincoln has called for 75,000 troops. Fernbrook. That means to the front for me ! I had hoped affairs might reach an amicable settlement with- out resort to arms, though it was almost hoping against hope. But this is the crisis. It will set the country aflame from coast to coast. Fleming. I've heard nothing but war, war, until I'm sick and tired of it. What do they want to fight for ? Fernbrook. They want to fight because it is bred in the bone of every true American to defend his flag from dishonor. They want to fight because they are men ! Fleming. And I suppose that is why you are going to the front ? Fernbrook. I'm going because I would be ashamed to be found at home in a time like this, and if you've the least spark of manhood left in you, you'll fight, too, and try and undo the dirty piece of work you did at West Point. Zeb. Eh ? What's this ? What did he do at West Point, Jack? Fernbrook. Never mind what he did, Mr. Jenks. It was enough to cause his dismissal in disgrace. Fleming. No one but a sneak would tell tales on a fellow officer. Fernbrook {looking him over with cofitempt). Fellow officer? You're no fellow officer of mine. As for giving you away, remember, I warned you. Addie (over to Fleming). Frank, are you going to let him say these things to you? Why don't you deny these accusations ? Fleming {angrily). I don't deny them because they are partly true, and because I don't care who knows it. Addie. And — and you didn't tell me? Did you think that could make any difference in my love Zeb. Your love ? Do you mean that you love Fleming ? (Addie hangs head.) Fleming. Addie, listen to me (Starts toward her.) HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Zeb. {getting between them). No ; she won't listen to you, but you'll listen to me. So you've been makin' love to my little girl, have you, Frank Fleming ? Fleming. Why, yes, I Zeb. To-day ? Fleming. Why, yes, Mr. Jenks. We were renewing old friendships and Zeb. And you made love to her after you have been kicked out of the military school in disgrace, did ye ? Fleming. Mr. Jenks, I Zeb. {sternly, arm extended). Mr. Fleming, there's the gate ! And if you don't take your cowardly carcass through it as quick as ye know how, some one else'lldo it fer ye. Fleming. You'll be sorry for this ! Zeb. Maybe so, but I'm willin' to take th' risk. Be ye goin' ? {Moves toward him.) Fleming. Yes, yes ; I'm going. {He goes slowly up stage and turfis.) I'll go down to Richmond. President Jefferson Davis will be glad to secure my services. He's a West Pointer himself. Fernbrook. If you mention yourself in connection with West Point again, I'll thrash you within an inch of your life. Fleming {laughing). Oh, I'll keep still now, seeing I'm in the enemy's country. But you haven't seen the last of me, Mr. Fernbrook, and when we meet again perhaps you'll realize there are better men in the world than you, Fernbrook. There are better men in the world than I. Fleming — but you're not one of them ! Fleming. I'll show you some of these fine daj^s. Fernbrook. By that time I shall have learned how to deal out fitting punishment to traitors. Fleming. It grieves me painfully to take leave of such charming company. (Addie cries on Diana's shoul- der.) Miss Burton, I shall see you in Richmond — perhaps. Diana {giving him a contemptuous glance). The South can fight her battles without such men as you, sir. Fleming. Oh, well, it's nice to stand high in regard of your friends. Good-bye ! {Lifts hat and exits, laughing, through gate to L.) 21 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Addie (throtving herself in her father's arms). Oh, papa, why couldn't he have been a man, and fought for his country? I loved him {Sobs.) Oh, I loved him so much ! Zeb. (petting her). What's that? What's that? Why, ye never ought to wasted a thought on th' wu'thless scamp. Ye never told me about it. Addie. I knew you'd never give your consent. Zeb. {sternly). You're right there. There, there, Addie, gal. Don't take on so. Remember you're goin' down to Virginny with Dianar. {Leads her sobbitig toward house.) There, now, little gal — there, there ! {Exeu?it.) Diana. Poor girl ! Her heart is broken. Fernbrook. Yes ; but it is far the better way. Fleming would never have been true to her. (Pause.) Diana, do you realize what this war means to you and me ? Diana {slozvly, thoughtfully). Yes; it means separation, perhaps forever. Fernbrook. No, no, not that. The war will be of short duration, then we will see each other again. Diana {bitterly). And do you think I could continue to love a man who is an enemy of my country ? Fernbrook {up to her). An enemy to your section, per- haps, but not to your country — or to you ! Diana {earnestly y hands on his shoulders). Oh, why won't you fight for the South, Jack — and for me ? You say you love me. I believe you. You know I love you in return, for I have told you so. Fernbrook. Don't talk that way, Diana. God knows, I love you better than life itself. For months I have seen you in my dreams — have seen you everywhere — have had eyes or ears for nothing else. Once this morning I even thought I might be happy with you in some spot far away from this bloody strife that is bound to come. But I was mistaken ; I could not. That would be dis- honor. Diana {slowly ^ hands on his shoulders again). But would it be dishonor? Think ! you would be a captain, per- haps a major or a colonel in the army of the South Fernbrook. Diana, would you have me desert my coun- try at the time she needs me? You are asking me to 22 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY lose my honor and cause pain to that mother who expects me to make an honorable name for myself. A good name is the most precious thing God can bestow upon us, and as long as my duty points as it does, I must — I will — fight for the Union ! Diana (turning away). Then so be it. But you have had your chance — remember that. Fernbrook. Ves; I'll remember it. And I'll remember that you whom I love, in whom I had implicit faith, asked me to desert my country — lose honor, the esteem of my mother, everything. (He starts quickly for the gate.') Diana (running after him). No, no; I did not mean that, Jack. (He stops.) Don't go away in anger. Fernbrook. Then tell me you are going to wait for me until the war is over ? Diana. But have you any more reason to ask that of me than I have to ask you to fight for the South ? I do not say there is no hope for you, but pledge myself to an enemy of my country, of my people, I will not ! Fernbrook. You do not trust me, and where trust is lack- ing there can be no love. Diana. Jack ! Fernbrook. It is true, Diana. You think because I will not desert the North, I do not love you as I should, but some day you will realize that a man may place his duty above everything and still love a woman better than anything in the world. Good-bye ! (He starts again, she seizing his arm.) Diana. Don't go off this way, Jack. Think — you may never see me again. Jack, I love you better than I love my mother, better than anything, better even than life itself. Now, will you go with me to Richmond ? {She tries to put her arms around his neck. He seizes them and thrusts her away. ) Fernbrook. Diana, if you love me, why do you tempt me ? Isn't this parting hard enough without that ? I dare not let you put your arms about me — I dare not ! But remember, though I left you when duty called me, 23 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY I loved you, and will always love you. Good-bye ! Good-bye ! {He pushes her gently away, and she falls sobbing 07i the bench under tree. Fernbrook niarches swiftly through gate, without turnings ajid exits to l. Diana looks up, and seeing he has gone, stretches her arms toward him}) Diana. Jack ! My Jack ! Come back to me, Jack. I was only putting you to the test. I did not mean a word of what I said. Come back to me — oh, come back ! {She cries out hysterically and falls sobbing on the bench again. ^ {Enter Zeb. and Kdjue. from house. Zee. lifts her gently to her feet. ^ Zeb. What's th* matter, Dianar, gal? What's th' matter? Diana. He's gone, Uncle Zeb — gone off to war. But he loves me — he loves me. I tempted him, but he was true to his country, Uncle Zeb — as true as steel ! Zeb. Thank God, Dianar, that there's one man ain't been found wan tin'. {He leads her slowly toward porch, Addie following. Diana is still sobbifig softly.) curtain 24 ACT II SCENE. — Parlor J with large olil-fashioned fireplace a7id chimney C, at back. Must be practical. Small table R. c, with a chair on eitJier side. Table contains books, newspapers, and a lamp. Ma7itel above fire- place is filled with bric-d-brac a?id several photographs, also a vase contaifiing a bunch of freshly-cut roses. Down L. is a sofa, dow7i r. a rocker, with another up 7iear l. upper. Bookcase l., about c. E7itrances l. c. and R. u. {Discovered — Lige, shuffli7ig slowly about, dusti7ig the fur- 7iiture and ivhistli7ig. He pauses sudde7ily in thought- ful attitude. His whistling stops. Ready Aunt Chloe to enter l. c. d.) Lige. Well, fo' de Lavvd's sake, ef I ain't been tryin' ter git dis yere room clean fo' er whole hour. But jes' as soon's I git de dust brushed off'n one cheer, hit's done settled on annuder. Dat sofy look lak hit nebber had been dusted, an' I's been ober hit fo' times. {Sud- denly takes photo fro7n 7nantel.^ Bless grashus ! Who's dis? Well, ef hit ain't dat skunk ob a spy what wuz heah las' week, den mah name ain't Lige Burton. {Replaci7ig picture, he sta7ids with folded arms gazi7ig at it.) I don' know why, Mistah Fleming, but I's got er sneakin' idee in mah cranium dat you'd kill yo' own m udder fo' money. {Resu7)ies dusting, stoppi7ig agai7i after a 77io77ie7it.) I wondah jes' what lil' missy t'inks ob him, anyhow? I knows he's dead gone on her. Like ez not he'll try en steal her one ob dese fine days. I'll jes' keep mah right eye peeled fer dat feller — dat's what I'll do. {Dusts agai7i.') {E7iter Chloe, l. c. d.) Chloe (stops, survey i7ig ///;«). What yo' mutterin' about, anyhow ? Lige. Ain't mutterin'. Chloe. I 'clar' fo' goodness I heered yo' jabberin' to yuh- self. 25 EEB FRIEND, THE ENEMY LiGE. Dat wasn't no jabber. Chloe. What wuz hit ? LiGE. Merely an articulation ob words. Chloe. Er what ? LiGE. I had ercasion tuh remark dat it wuz an articulation ob words. Chloe (hand to her face). Well, fo' de Lawd's sake ! Did yo* really pronounce dat word, er is I dreamin' ? LiGE. Course I pronounce hit. Chloe. An' yer jaw ain't tired ? LiGE. Course not. Mah jaw don't git tired, Chloe. Yo* needn't t'ink 'cause yo's got de circumlocution ob de gastric membrane, dat I's got de same, fo' I ain't. Chloe. My, my ! Whar yo' git dem big words ? LiGE. Out ob mah haid ; where yo' s'pose ? Chloe. Well, yo' jes' keep 'em in yo' ole haid when I's eround. {Looks about critically.) Hab yo' got dis yere room dissected clean ? LiGE. Dissected ! He, he ! Reckon I hab. At least I did hab till yo' come in yere an' brung de dust an' dirt all back wif yo'. Chloe. Does yo' mean tuh inskinuate? LiGE. Inskinuate? What am dat ? Chloe. Does yo' mean tuh say dat youse so ignorant yuh don't know what skinuatin' is? LiGE. Dat's jes' hit, Chloe. I ain't skinuatin', is I? Chloe. Yes ; you is. LiGE {looking carefully at backs of hands). I ain't missed none ob hit. Chloe. Ain't missed none ob what ? LiGE. None ob my skin. Yo' said I was skinuatin'. Chloe. Yo' nebber will git no sense. I's gwine tuh — tuh LiGE. No yuh ain't — no yuh ain't — yo' ain't gwine tuh, neither {They wrangle ad lib.) {Enter Mrs. Burton, r. u. e.) Mrs. B. Here, what's the matter with you two ? {They separate quickly, Lige going doiun R., Chloe down L. Mrs. B. comes down c. They look at her sheepishly.) LiGE. Why, missus — I — I Mrs. B. Well, get out of here, both of you. You shouldn't 26 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY have left your kitchen work, Chloe. Remember we are to have a guest for the evening meal. Chloe. Yas, missus; I's gvvine right back to de kitchen, dis minute. (^Exit quickly y l. c. d.) Mrs. B. And you, Lige, may rake up the trash in the back yard Lige. But, missus, Marse Kunnei said 'fore he left Mrs. B. {sternly^. Did you hear me ? Lige. Yas'm; 1 heerd yuh. I's gvvine. But don't sit on de sofy, missus, 'cause I's only dusted hit foah times, en I's erfraid hit ain't clean yit. (^Exitj laughmg, L. c. D.) Mrs. B. {in chair at table). How willing, how happy I would be to sacrifice everything to be as happy as Lige and Chloe. (Sig/is.) But it was not so ordained, I fear. (Enter Colonel James Burton, l. c. d.) Colonel. Ah, Mary ! Mrs. B. James ! {They embrace and kiss.) Colonel. Back for a day or so to see you and the old home before we are forced to evacuate the city. Mrs. B. I'hen it is true that the Federal army is so near ? Colonel. Yes \ it is only too true. But three trenches remain in our possession in front of the city. Gradu- ally the lines of blue have drawn closer until we are hemmed in like bulls in a pen, with no way of escape except to beat an ignominious retreat. It is hard for a Southern soldier to retreat, Mary, but there are times when discretion is the better part of valor. Mrs. B. And when will the city be evacuated ? Colonel. Either to-morrow or the day following. To hold out longer would be folly. It would mean the needless sacrifice of our men. Mrs. B. Have you seen our boy recently, James ? Colonel. Yes ; I saw Berkeley to-day. He is on duty at Libby Prison, where the most valuable of the Yankee prisoners are kept. He will no doubt get leave of ab- sence and run up here to-day. Mrs. B. Oh, it is terrible, this war, but if it spares you 27 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY and Berkeley to me, James, we can at least have a quiet home somewhere and live our declining years in peace. Colonel. You are right, Mary, and that brings me to a subject on which I wish to consult you. As you know, our fortunes are at the present moment at an extremely low ebb ; yet I have hopes of regaining lost ground ere long. Er — where is Diana ? Mrs. B. She is in her room; I'll send for her. {Taps hell.) These long days of anxiety have imposed a severe strain both on Diana and Addie. {Enter Lige, L. c. D.) Tell Diana her father is here, Lige. Lige. Yas'm ; I's gwine. {Crosses to R. Exit, r, u. e.) Mrs. B. This war has cut short Diana's girlhood, trans- forming her into a matured woman when she should still be in the flower of her youth. Colonel. I know — I know. It's too bad, but there was no other way. I have hopes that I feel will brighten her future as well as my own. {Enter Diana, r. u. -e., followed by Lige, who crosses to l. c. d., and exits.) Diana. Papa ! Colonel. Diana, my girl ! {Takes her in his arms.) Diana. I had no idea we would see you to-day. Have you any news of brother ? Colonel. Yes; Berkeley is in Richmond, on special duty at Libby Prison, and will no doubt make his presence known to you at the first opportunity. By the way, while it is on my mind, have Aunt Chloe prepare one of her famous suppers. We are to have company for the evening meal. Diana. Company, papa ? Colonel. Yes; a gentleman whom, I trust, you will be very glad to see — Frank Fleming. Diana. Frank Fleming ! Is that man coming here again ? Why did you ask him ? Colonel {surprised). Why, I didn't know he was so re- pulsive to you. Why do you dislike him ? Diana. I don't know; but I would give anything I possess to avoid meeting him. 28 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Colonel. Oh, come; this is some foolish prejudice, and you are carrying it too far. I noticed that you treated him rather coolly when he was here last week, but I thought it was because you were not sufficiently acquainted with him. Diana. I despise him ! Mrs. B. Diana ! Diana. Well, 1 do. What's the use of saying I don't when I do? Colonel. It is prejudice of some sort, I tell you. I want Fleming treated as he deserves to-night. Diana {significantly). I shall treat him as he deserves. Colonel. He is a man of honor, and one of the hardest workers the Confederacy has ever had. We should feel gratified that he cares to visit us, and try and make his stay as pleasant as possible. Diana. Why do you place such implicit confidence in this man? Colonel (hotly). Because he is a gentleman and a man of influence. Further, he has done me the honor to ask for your hand in marriage. Diana (slowly). He — has — done — that? Colonel. Yes ; I— I had not meant to tell you this, pre- ferring to let him speak for himself. Diana. And what did you tell Mr. Fleming ? Colonel. That I freely gave my consent to the match, and that I thought he could secure yours. He said he had never met a woman so queenly and beautiful as yourself. Diana. Papa, I Colonel. Don't interrupt me. Aside from being a man of honor and influence, Fleming is a man of considera- ble wealth. The war is nearly over, our fortunes are shattered, and there is no prospect of regaining them through ordinary means. I have every reason to be- lieve that Fleming will lay his fortune at your feet to- night. I trust you will treat him as a dutiful daughter should. Diana. A dutiful daughter should stand up for her rights. She should not sell her honor for the sake of a few paltry dollars in the hands of a man, who, while pro- fessing to be able to save her father from ruin, is but playing a game to get her in his possession. I shall never marry Frank Fleming ! Never I 29 EEB FRIEND, THE ENEMY Mrs. B. Diana, I honor you for your sentintients. I regret that such an idea of bartering our girl should have en- tered your father's head. Colonel (uneasy). Why, Mary, I Mrs. B. (rising). James Burton, I have loved you as few women can love ; I love you still. But that does not blind me to my sense of duty. Colonel. But Mary, I Mrs. B. Let me finish. 1 cannot sit idly by and see you ruin Diana's life. She shall marry the man of her choice — whoever he may be — even though we starve ! Colonel {angrily). So you're both against me, eh? You are thinking of yourselves without any thought for my wishes. Fleming will be here soon. See that you treat him courteously, or you shall rue it. (Exit fioisily. He can be heard tramping doiV7i the stairs.) Diana. What shall I do, mamma ? I never realized we should have to face a crisis like this. (Sadly.) To think that he would barter me to save himself from financial ruin ! Mrs. B. (arms about her). There, dear. Your father is hardly himself to-day. The strain of the campaign is telling on him, and when he has had time to think things over calmly, he will change his mind. Leave him to me. (Enter Addie, r. u, e. She seems rather wan and tired.) Addie. Was that Uncle James ? Diana. Yes ; he has gone down-stairs. Addie. I'd like so much to see him if you don't mind. Mrs. B. Why, of course, we don't mind. Addie, you act so strangely of late. (Goes to her and puts arm about her.) What's the matter, dear? Addie. I — I don't know; really I don't. I — I've been shut up here so long, I think it's getting on my nerves a little. That's all. (Suddenly.) Uncle James didn't say anything about papa, did he ? Mrs. B. Not a word. Addie. Oh, if I could only hear from him — to know that he was well, it would be such a relief— such a relief. Diana. The last we heard, he was alive and well with the commissary department of Grant's array. 30 BEU FRIEND, THE ENEMY Addie. Yes; bul just think; that was two months ago. Diana. Well, don't worry. There are plenty of chances that you'll see him within the next few days. Addie. Oh, do you think so ? Mrs. B. We are almost sure of it. James says the Union army will surely enter the city within the next forty- eight hours. (^Enter Lige, l. c. d.) Diana. And that means our boys will have to go. There's Lige, mamma. Mrs. B. {turning). Well ! Lige. Dat Mistah Fleming am below, missus, an' he say tell de ladies he'll be right up. (Addie gives a start.) Mrs. B. Very well, Lige ; you may go. Lige. Yas'm; I'sgwine. {Exit, L. c. D.) Addie. Is that man in this house again ? Diana. Unfortunately, yes. Addie. And he is coming up here? {She looks from Diana to Mrs. B. There is a pat/se, then both nod in the affirmative.) I — I must not meet him. Let me know when he has gone. {Exit, quickly, r. u. e.) Diana. Poor girl ! I hope for her sake as well as our own that the war will soon end. Mrs. B. She has had a hard time of it. Mr. Fleming made it especially disagreeable for her upon his first visit to this house. Diana. As he did for every one else. {Enter Fleming, l. c. d.) Fleming. Good-evening. It is indeed a pleasure to find myself once more under your hospitable roof. (Diana gives him a co7iiemptiious glance and, turning a7vay, begins to arrange objects on the table.) 31 HEB FRIEND, THE ENEMY Mrs. B. My husband has stepped out, Mr. Fleming. Won't you be seated ? Fleming. After you, my dear Mrs. Burton. (She sits l., he c.) I met Colonel Burton below, and he told me to come up. {Looks at Diana.) What's the matter with your daughter, Mrs. Burton ? Mrs. B. I fail to understand you. Fleming. It would appear that she holds some grudge against me, though what I have done to merit her dis- pleasure I cannot imagine. Mrs. B. My daughter is feeling indisposed to-day, sir, so you will have to pardon any seeming discourtesy on her part. Fleming. Yes, yes, certainly — but — er — I see no reason why she should not be civil, even though she is indis- posed. Diana. You will oblige me by leaving me out of the conver- sation. Fleming. But you are doing me an injustice. I do not deserve this treatment. Surely there is some cause for your animosity. Diana. There is a cause, and you shall hear it. Mamma, will you leave Mr. Fleming and me alone ? (Mrs. B. bows, and exits, l. c. d. As she closes door, Flem- ing laughs, seats himself oji sofa down l. and lights a cigarette.^ Gentlemen do not smoke in the presence of ladies without their permission. Fleming {cynically). Oh, I beg pardon ! {Laughing, he 7valks up stage and throws cigarette in fire- place, thefi resumes seat 07i sofa. ) Diana. Now, sir, it is better that you and I come to an understanding. Upon your previous visit to this house you insisted on annoying me by connecting my name with that of a young Federal officer whom we both knew in the North before the war. I have never men- tioned your conduct to my father. Had I done so, you would not be in this house to-day. Since that time I have never ceased to wonder how such a des- picable specimen of humanity could hold the position of chief of the Confederate secret service. Fleming. Miss Burton, really, now Diana. After this, knowing ray dislike for you, you have 32 HER FRIEND, THE ENE3IY been to my father, and after throwing in his face the fact that he is on the verge of financial ruin, you have the audacity to ask his consent to a marriage with me. Fleming (nodding). True. Diana. May heaven help my father if he gets into your clutches ! He mistakes for friendship your assumed generosity in offering to save him, but 1 know it for what it is — a plan to get me in your power. Fleming. All very nice, Miss Burton. You have given me your ultimatum. {Ris€S.) Now, listen to me. It is true that I want you for my wife, but because I love you, not from any baser motives, as you seem to imagine. Diana. Oh, I am well aware of your motives. Fleming. I am going to win you. Diana. What will you do when I tell my father of your villainy ? Fleming. You will never tell him. Diana. You threaten me? Fleming. Oh, put your fears to rest. I shall not use vio- lence. I hold a better card than that. Diana. What do you mean ? Fleming. I mean this : Your Yankee lover, Jack Fern- brook, has been caught spying within the Confederate lines, and is at this moment confined in Libby Prison under your brother's charge. Diana. 1 don't believe you ! Fleming. Then I am sorry for Fernbrook, for I was about to explain a method by which you might get him out of this very serious predicament. Diana. I don't beheve you — I tell you, I don't believe you. Fleming. I'm sorry. I also regret that I shall be com- pelled to tell Berkeley that he is the jailer of the man you love. Diana. Oh, you think to fool me with this scheme you have concocted, but I tell you Mr. Fernbrook is not in Richmond. How dare you lie to me — how dare you ? (She draws her self up facing him. He looks at her a mo- ment^ then laughs.) Fleming. A very pretty picture, Miss Burton. But that 33 BER FRIEND, THE ENEMY does not alter the fact that every word I have spoken is the truth. Diana. Your proof, then. Fleming. I took good care to provide myself with proof. (JDraivs paper from pocket.) Here is an order given Lieutenant Burton regarding the prisoner. 1 think it will satisfy your doubts. Diana. It is a forgery ! Fleming. If you doubt its genuineness, show it to your father, who is familiar with every paper, every seal, owned by the Confederate government. Diana. Let me see that paper. Fleming. With pleasure. {Starts to show it to her. She snatches it.) Diana (readitig). " The prisoner placed under your charge is Fernbrook, a Union spy. He is to be shot at sun- rise. I hold you responsible for his safety. Signed, Wagner, Major-General." (Diana reels. Fleming starts to catch her, but she waves hivi off.) Fleming. Mr. Fernbrook 's chances seem rather slim, do they not, Miss Burton ? Diana. This is a scheme of yours to be revenged. Mr. Fernbrook is not a spy. Fleming. He was caught within our lines. You know what that means in the game of war. Diana. And you — you were the man who caught him ? Fleming {bows, laughing). I had that honor, assisted by a few faithful soldiers. Diana. But why, why have you had him sentenced to be shot ? {She speaks in an appealing tone.) Fleming. The order is signed by General Wagner, Miss Burton. Diana. Yes; after you hod first made a charge against the prisoner. If you had told General Wagner that Mr. Fernbrook was merely a prisoner of war, this could not have happened. Fleming. Exactly. Diana. Then why did you lodge a false charge ? Fleming. The charge is not false. But supposing it was false, why should I not do all in my power to sweep 34 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY him from my path ? He has said things to me that a man can neither forgive nor forget. I warned him that if he ever entered my Hfe again, I'd crush him, and by heaven, 1 mean to do it. Diana. Oh, you coward ! Fleming. Calhng names won't save him. Miss Burton. Yet you have it in your power to secure his release this very night. Diana. You mean ? Fleming. I mean that if you will consent to be my wife, Fernbrook shall go free, on his promise to keep out of my way in the future. Diana. You know I would die rather than consent to that. FlejNIING {^taking out watch). AVell, you have just sixty seconds in which to decide. Remember — 1 am the only man holding proofs of Fernbrook's guilt. I can destroy these proofs and say that I have been mistaken in my man, and Fernbrook will be merely a prisoner of war. But if matters take their present course, noth- ing can save him from the fate of a spy. Diana. 1 — I refuse to consider the matter further. (^Turns away.) Fleming. Then let me bid you good-evening. (Starts.) Diana (turning quickly). Stop ! Don't — don't — go — yet ! Let — me — think ! (For a moment she struggles with her emotions, while he stands ivaichingy a cynical smile on his face.) And if — if I should consent to be- come your wife, how am I to know that you will keep your word ? Fleming. You'll have to trust me. Diana. Will you swear to save Jack Fernbrook from death, and do all in your power to see that he is safely ex- changed ? Fleming. Yes. Diana. If I could only trust you ! Fleming. You can trust me, Miss Burton — Diana Diana. Stop ! It will be time enough for familiarity when you have carried out your share of the bargain. Fleming. I love you — you must know that, and if I agree to let Jack Fernbrook go free, he'll go free — that's all. Diana. Then I may consent to become your wife. You shall have my answer this evening. (He starts toward 35 EEB FRIEND, THE ENEMY her.) Wait. My feelings toward you are not changed. I hate you with an undying hatred. If I become your wife, it will be on condition that you bring to me proofs that Jack Fernbrook is safe in the Union lines. Is that understood? Fleming {bowing). It is. Diana. Please remember I have this hold on you : if you fail to keep your word, I shall tell my father everything, and then I wouldn't give a straw for your life. Fleming (bowing). I salute you as the future Mrs. Fleming. Diana {turning from him with a little sob). Perhaps. To- night. Go ! {Enter Colonel, l. c. d.) Colonel. Fleming, my boy, I am delighted to see you here. Fleming {7vith significant look at Diana). And I can truthfully say that I am delighted to be here. Colonel. Been having a little tete-a-tete, eh? (Smiles indulgently.) Well, young folks must have their frolics. But come along, now — supper has been waiting for five minutes. Come, Diana. Diana {down r.). You'll have to excuse me — Pm not feeling well to-night. Colonel. You give up too easily to trifles. Diana. It will do no good to urge me. Colonel. Very well. Where is Addie? Diana. In her room. Colonel. I'll have Lige call her. Diana. Don't. She is not well. Colonel. What, another? Well, come along, Fleming. As long as I have known women, I can't understand them. Fleming. They are queer creatures, Colonel. {Laughs.) {Exeunt, l. c. d.) (Diana rises, then pauses as if undecided. She goes up to L. C. D., starts to exit, thinks better of it and tur7is. As she turns enter r. u. e., Fernbrook. He is bare- headed, his hair rumpled, his clothes torn. He comes in quickly on tiptoe, stops, and draws back suddenly on seeing DiAt^ A.) Fernbrook. Diana ! 36 BER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Diana {Jiysterically^. Jack ! {There is a slight pause, during ivhich she recovers her composure^ draws her- self 2ip proudly?) What — what are you doing in this house ? Fernbrook. I have just escaped from prison. Fearing pursuit, I ran into the first house that appeared to af- ford a hiding-place. I did not expect to find you here — I do not understand Diana. Then you didn't know you were in my father's house ? Fernbrook {slowly). Your — father's — house? I see it all. I did not know this — I had not the slightest sus- picion of it. What must you think of me, Diana? I will go at once. {Starts.) Diana {moving toward Iwn). You — you are going ? Fernbrook. What else is left for me to do? Diana. But they may capture you before you are out of the house. Fernbrook. I must take the risk. I cannot remain and compromise you. It would be the madness of pre- sumption to think of it. Diana {relentiiig). And yet {Pause.) Fernbrook. I know what you are thinking, but you must do nothing rash. You cannot take the risk of having me discovered in this house. Diana {decisively). I cannot let you go. You say you fear pursuit. The prison guards may even now be on your track. You must not — you shall not leave this house ! Fernbrook {seizing her hand). Listen. If I am found here with you Diana. Why, you are weak and ill, I can see it. If I let you go I could never forgive myself. But you say you escaped from prison ? How did you pass the guards ? Fernbrook. In one wall of my cell I found a cleverly- concealed tunnel, which some poor fellow had evidently prepared for his own use, I discovered it purely by chance, and when darkness fell I crawled through into the outer air. It is only the matter of moments when my escape will be discovered. I'd give anything I possess to be safe within the Union lines. Diana. When were you captured, Jack? Fernbrook. Yesterday morning. I was on a scouting 37 HEB FRIEND, THE ENEMY expedition to determine the position of one of the Con- federate regiments. In some way I became separated from my men and wandered through the enemy's lines. I was surrounded and captured by a party of men headed by the traitor, Fleming, who, I understand, is a spy in the service of the South. Diana. Then you were only a prisoner of war ? Fernbrook. Yes, but Fleming swore I was a Union spy. His men took away my uniform, and left me these clothes. General Wagner believed him, and I was to have been shot at sunrise. Diana. Jack, that man is here ! Fernbrook. Who — Fleming ? Diana. Yes ; he is in this very house. Fernbrook {starting for the door). Show me where he is! Diana (restraining hint). No— no— you must not risk discovery. Fernbrook {coming back). You are right — it would be madness. But whenever I think of that man and what he has done, every nerve in my body is on edge, and I long to get my hands on him and crush him. Diana. Have patience — your opportunity will come in time. At the present moment, we have other and more important things to think about. Fernbrook. I still insist that I shall only be doing my duty in leaving this house at once. Diana. Are you deaf, sir, or did you hear me say you could not go ? Fernbrook. Ah ! that's the way you used to speak to me, Diana. Do you know what it will mean to me if I remain ? Diana {hanging her head). What will it mean? Fernbrook. It will mean the return of the old love. Al- ready my heart is aching at the sight of you. But I cannot hope — it — it — would be madness to hope that — that your feelings toward me can have changed. Diana {softly). Time changes all things, Jack. Fernbrook (delighted). Diana ! Diana. It is true that I have felt the humiliation the Northern oppressors have visited upon us ; but sadness and suf- fering have brought me to think more of my own hap- piness than I did a few years since. {Hands on his 38 HER FRIEND, THE ENE3IY shoulders.) God help me if I am doing wrong, but it is the return of the old love that prompts me to urge you to stay. Fernbrook (^taking her in his arms). Bless you ! Diana {Jiead on his shoulder). This doesn't look very war- like, does it? Fernbrook. I am tired of war. But there — tell me what to do, Diana. The first thing is to call Lige. ( Taps bell on table. ) He is faithful to me in everything, and together we must devise some plan for your safety. Lige can keep his eye on papa and Mr, Fleming. {Enter Lige, l. c, d,) Lige (starting in amaze me 71 1 as he sees Fernbrook). Lordy, who's dat? Diana. Lige, this is only Mr. Fernbrook, a very dear friend of mine. You will remember seeing him at Uncle Zeb's. Lige. Yas'm — yas'm — I remembers. Diana. He has just escaped from prison, and he is to be concealed in this house until an opportunity offers for his further escape through our lines. I want you to watch papa and Mr. Fleming, and report to me when there is danger of discovery. Lige. A'right, lil' missy ; ah'll do anything yo' says. Diana. You may go now, Lige. Yas'm — I's gwine. o {Exit, r. u. e.) Fernbrook. Now that that is settled, what do you intend doing with me ? Diana. I am going to find you a safe place of conceal- ment. Fernbrook. Where I can see you ? Diana. If you behave. Fernbrook. I'll go anywhere, do anything, to be near you. {Enter Lige, hurriedly, r, u. e.) Lige {excited). Oh, fo* de lub ob goodness, HI' missy ! Diana {startled). What is it, Lige? Lige. You'd bettah hide Marse Fernbrook quick. Marse 39 HEE FRIEND, THE ENE3IY Berkeley Burton en two prison guards am below in de hall a-talkin' to de kunnel. Dey hab tracked an 'scaped prisoner to dis house, dey said, an' dey'll be up heah in er minute, suah. {While LiGE is speakings -die..) {Enter Lige, l. c. d.) LiGE (^looking about cautiously). Yas'r, dey's gone suah enuff. Huh ! I reckon lil' missy am jes' worryin' herse'f t' deaf ober de captain. (^Chuckles.) I reckon I could tell her somethin' 'at'd make her open her eyes. {Chuckles.) I reckon dey finks dey'U find de captain by searchin' dis yere place, but I reckons dey won't — no siree ! {Enter Chloe, l. c. d.) Chloe. Oh, youse is up heah, is yo' ? Lige (turnifig). Reckon yo's got eyes in yo* topknot. I doesn't hab t' make any extra exclamations t* inform yo' ob mah presence, does I ? Chloe. Yo's up t' some debbilment. Lige. I ain't. Chloe. Yas, yo' is, an' I's gwine t' find out what it am. First, I finds Marse Berkeley's bran* new lasso-lariater in de kitchen grate. Who sticks it dar? I dunno ! But I'se got some likely suspicitations. Lige (sullenly). Don't know nothin' 'bout de old rope. Chloe. Well, nex* I finds yo' sneakin' round de house like yuh was 'fraid ob yo' own shadder. I jes* say t' mahself : " Dar's somethin* wrong wif dat fool niggah." Now, yo* *splain yo'self ! Lige {nervously). I tells yuh dar ain't nuffin' de mattah. Yo' eyes am deceivitatin' yo*. Chloe {stertily). No, mah eyes ain't deceivitatin' me, neither. I knows jes' what's de mattah wif yo', Lige Burton. Lige. Wh-wh-what am de mattah wif me? Chloe {leaning toward him significantly). Yo's got er secret ! Lige {Jumping). Oh, Lordy ! Chloe. AVhat's de mattah now? Lige {chuckling). 1 was jes' jumpin* fo* joy, t' think I had a secret an' didn't know hit. 53 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY Chloe (gleaning toward him earnestly). Ain't yo' got er secret, suah enuff? LiGE {looking cautiously about ^ then holding finger to lips). Sh ! [He steals softly to l. c. d.) Sh ! {Crosses to R. u. E.) Sh ! {He looks under sofa, Chloe watch- ing him with open mouth.) Sh ! {Goes to her cau- tiously, speaking weirdly.) Yas, I's got er secret — an orful secret ! A secret dat'll make yo' shake like de debbil. Makes mah hair nearly stand on end ebery time I thinks ob dat secret. Oh, me ! Oh, my ! Chloe {scared). I — I — don' know dat I wants t' heah 'bout hit. Am hit suah enuff bad ? LiGE. Course hit am. It'll ha'nt yo' all yo' natcheral life. Hit's jes' hke a big white spook, wif two big clammy hands stretched out t' grab yo'. Chloe. Oh, Lordy ! LiGE. Come a little closter — I's got t' whisper hit. Chloe {eyes rollings bending nearer). Yas, yas — now, what am hit ? Lige {gravely). Yo' knows de big fireplace in de dinin'- room ? Chloe {nodding, breathlessly, mouth open). Uh-huh ! Lige. Yo' knows de secret stone undah which ole Marsa's Marsa's Marsa was said t' hab hid his treasuh ? Chloe. Uh-huh ! Lige. Well, I went in dar a while ergo, an' I pull dat stone out, an' what does yo' think I found ? Chloe. I — I dunno, Lige. What yo' find ? Lige. Er hole in de floor ! {He bursts out laughing, bending over and slapping his knees. Chloe stands looking at hifn^ an itidignant expression on her face. Enter Fleming, l. c. d., sees them, pauses a moment, then, drawing pistol from belt, tiptoes up behind Lige unobserved by either hitn or Chloe.) Chloe. What fo' yo' startle me like dat ? Lige. 'Cause yo's so smart. Yo' hadn't oughter git startled so easy. I nebber would git scart at nuffin' — I — I (Fleming, from behind, sticks barrel of pistol around in front of his face. Lige's eyes begin to roll, then droppi?ig 07t his knees, he begins to pray.) Oh, Lordy, Lordy, hab a lil' mercy. What hab dis 54 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY pooh niggah eber done dat yo' should stick er gun in his face? Please go ervvay; I won't fool Chloe no moah. Oh, Lordy, if you'll only — only Fleming. Get up, you lazy nigger, or I'll put a bullet down your throat. Get up, 1 say ! {/al's him with pistol.) LiGE {opening eyes, looking up slowly, grins'). I — I know'd hit was yo* all de time, Mistah Fleming. Fleming. Don't he to me ! (Lige gets up.) Now, listen ! You know something about, the disappearance of this Yankee spy. LiGE. No, sah, no, sab — I don't know nuffin'. Fleming. You were here in the room with him; I saw you, and if you don't tell me where he is in two min- utes, I'll blow the top of your head off. LiGE {drawijig himself 7fp proudly). Yo' makes a mistake, Mistah Fleming, in comin' t' me fo' information. 1 don't know nuffin' 'bout de Yank, en if I did I wouldn't tell you ! Chloe. Dat's right, Lige — dat's right. Fleming. You impudent black rascal ! I want informa- tion, I tell you. If you don't tell me I'll shoot you where you stand. Lige {folding arms, and looking him in the eye). Den I reckon you'll hab t' shoot, sah ! Fleming. By heaven, I will ! {He goes up r., turns and aims pistol at Lige who is down c, a little to l. Chloe is l. c.) I'll count three, and if you don't speak before, you're a dead nigger ! One ! {Pause.) Two ! (Lige does not move. Chloe seems spellbound. Enter suddenly, Diana, r. u. e. Reaching from behind she wrests "the weapon from Fleming's grasp. He turns with a startled exclamation.) Diana. I don't believe I'd count any farther, Mr. Flem- ing ! Fleming. Why do you interfere? Diana. Why do you intimidate my servants, Mr. Flem- ing? Fleming {forcing a laugh). Why, the whole matter was a joke. 55 HEB FRIEND, THE ENEMY Diana. I don't believe you. Lige, what has happened here ? LiG2. Chloe en I was in heah talkin', lil' missy, wlien dat man come in an' say dat I knows where de Yankee captain am, an' dat if I don't tell him, he'll shoot me. Fleming. The nigger lies 1 Chloe. No, sah, he don't lie — he am tellin' de trufe ! Fleming {to Diana). Will you take the word of these niggers in preference to mine ? Diana. Every time, Mr. Fleming. {To Lige ^?/^ Chloe.) Lige, you and Chloe may go. And mind you, not a word of this to any one, unless I tell you. Lige. Yes, lil' missy. {He moves slowly up, followed by Chloe. Exeujit, l. c. d.) Fleming {looking after him). Curse his impudence ! Diana. Now, Mr. Fleming, you and I will have a final settlement. Fleming. It is for that very reason you find me here, Diana. Diana. Miss Burton, to you, sir. Fleming {laughing sneer ingly). Very well, Miss Burton. What I have to say to you can be said as well along strictly formal lines. Before I begin, kindly hand me that pistol. Diana. I will hold the pistol. Fleming. Don't think the gun will give you the upper hand. Diana. I am not seeking trouble, Mr. Fleming. If there is trouble you will bring it on yourself. Fleming. There will be no trouble if you accede to my wishes. Diana. I will accede to nothing. On the other hand I expect to show you where it is to your advantage to accede to mine. Fleming. As to that we shall see. I feel bound to tell you, however, that — 1 — I Oh, oh, good heavens ! ( Clasps hand quickly to his side and staggers against a chair on which he leans for support^ writhing back and forward as if in agony.) It's — it's the — the old pain, come back after all these years. Miss Burton, I — I — hate to ask it, but I must have some water, and 56 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY have it quickly. Don't hesitate — do this for me, I beg you ! Diana. I cannot see even an enemy suffer. I will get the water. {Laying revolver on the table she starts hurriedly for l. c. d.) Fleming (recovering suddenly). Never mind the water — this is what I wanted ! (He springs to table and seizes the weapon.) Thanks, so much, for your tender sympathy ! (Laughs.) Diana. Coward, to take advantage of a woman ! Fleming. Remember, all is fair in love and war. At any rate, you had no scruples about taking advantage of me a while ago. Diana. I refuse now to discuss matters with you. I shall see my father and my brother — then action will be the word ! {^Starts toward R. u. E.) Fleming (seizing her by the wrist, a?id pulling her down stage). You'll stay here ! Diana. Let go — you are hurting me ! (He refuses.) Fleming. First listen to me. I love you, and you're going to be my wife. Your father has given his consent and yesterday in this very room you said that when certain conditions were fulfilled you would give yours. I have come to-day to tell you that those conditions have been fulfilled. Diana (startled). I don't believe you ! Fleming. You don't want to believe me. Nevertheless, Jack Fernbrook is safe within the Union lines. Diana. I trust you are right, but he had no aid from you in getting there. Fleming. You are wrong ; he had every aid it was in my power to give. This morning I found him hiding in a large feed box in your father's barn. I procured for him a Confederate uniform and a horse. Then I gave him a passport. If he reached the Federal lines in safety he was to send me a note to that effect. To-day the note came to our lines under a flag of truce. Diana. I don't believe you ! Fleming. You are familiar with Fernbrook's writing. There's the note — see for yourself. (Gives it.) 57 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY {Enter Fernbrook o?t tiptoe, l. c. d. He starts on seeing tJiefn, standifig arms folded at back.) Diana. This note is a forgery — it must be a forgery. I don't believe Jack Fernbrook ever wrote it. {Reads.) "I am safe within the Union lines. Thanks. Fern- brook." Fleming. Now the spy is disposed of, I shall hold you to your promise. Diana. You have yet to satisfy me with proof. Fleming. I have kept my word, and you shall keep yours ! You shall — do you hear ? {Seizes her roughly, raising hand as if to strike. Fern- brook steps quickly down between them, with revolver in Fleming' s/<3;^tf.) Fernbrook. I don't believe I'd strike her, Fleming ! Fleming {startled). Fernbrook ! Diana. Jack ! {She seizes his arm nervously.) Fleming. You, you Fernbrook. Take care. There is a lady present. My coming in unannounced seems to have unnerved you. Fleming. You haven't unnerved me, you Yankee upstart —I'll— I'll Fernbrook. Take your hand off that gun. (Fleming obeys, muttering beneath his breath.) Diana. Then this man did not help you escape as he claims? Fernbrook. No ; that is simply a litde tale concocted for this occasion. I have no doubt he would like to help me escape — into another world. But I'm afraid he'll get there first. Luckily Lige knew Fleming was in here looking for trouble and came and told me. Diana. But where have you been ? How did you escape from the chimney ? Fernbrook. By means of a rope with Lige at the top of it. Really, it is an easy matter to ascend the inside of a rough chimney when some one is pulling you. {Smiles.) Since then I've been in Lige's room. Fleming. I knew you were in that chimney ! But all your scheming will avail you nothing. 58 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY (^Moves slowly tozvard -r. u. e.) Fernbrook. Don't look so sneaking, Fleming — you have my permission to go through that door. (Fleming starts to make hasty exit, but is met by Lige who enters, a big pistol in his hand. This he sticks in Fleming' s/iOJ^^.) Lige {grinning). Not dis time — some odder time ! Fleming. This is a trap ! Fernbrook. A man with a fair degree of intelligence would have divined that long ago. Fleming (turning to Lige). Nigger, listen to me ! You are in open rebellion against the Confederate govern- ment, and I can have you hanged as a traitor. Now, go below and tell the sergeant to step this way with his men. Tell them I have the Yankee and wish him taken into custody. Fernbrook. A nice game, but it won't work. Lige isn't under your orders. Lige. No, sah, I ain't. Fleming. I'll have you all hanged for traitors and spies — oh, I'll make you pay dearly for this ! Fernbrook. There is a bare possibility that you will some day be in a position to do that. Just now we are deal- ing with the present. Lige, disarm your prisoner ! Lige. Wif pleasure, sah. {Removes pistol from Fleming's belt.) Fleming. I refuse to submit to this indignity ! Lige (covering him). Stand still, yo' lazy niggah, or I'll put er bullet down yo' froat. Fernbrook. Now bind him, leaving his right hand free for the moment. (Lige, grin?iing, pulls a rope from his belt.) No; wait — first hand me that spotless gray coat. I think it will fit me perfectly, and Fleming is so fond of blue that he won't mind wearing mine. (Lige begins to strip ^^ Fleming's coat.) Fleming. I'll die first ! Lige. Den say yo' prayers ! Fernbrook (as Lige hands him coat). Now put this one on him. (Hands him his own.) I'll cover him, 59 HER FRIEND, THE ENEMY (Fleming strui^o^les, but the exchange is soon inade, Fernbrook dofifiifig the gray.) Now, before we bind him, Lige, we'll have a little exhibition of his penman- ship. Put him in that chair at the table. (Lige does so.) There, Fleming, are pen, ink and paper. Write as I dictate. (Fleming sullenly obeys.) ** This is to certify " Got it? All right. " to certify that the bearer is Captain John Holcamp of the First Mississippi Rifles, and is entitled to pass through the Confederate lines at will." Got it? {Looks over Fleming's shoulder.) Good — now, sign it ! {Pause. Fleming looks about for some last means of thwarting his enemy. Fernbrook sticks barrel of pistol against back of his head.) Sign it! (Fleming signs.) Thanks! (Fernbrook takes paper, folds it, and puts it in his pocket.) Now, Lige, bind your prisoner, and don't worry about your gun. I'll keep him covered. (Lige ties him securely.) Now, lay him flat in front of the fireplace. (Lige does so.) Now a bandage over his eyes, and a gag, and we're through. Lige. I's got a gag. (Still grinning, he pulls a dirty handkerchief from his pocket, and pulls ha?idkerchief from Fleming' s pocket.) Fleming. Not that — not that. I don't want that rag in my mouth after it's been in the nigger's pocket. Lige. Yo' can't help yo'self. Dis yere rag am a powerful sight cleaner den de mouf of any man dat insults a lady ! ( Thrusts rag in Fleming's mouth, and ties other handker- chief over his eyes.) Fernbrook {quickly). Now, Lige, we must act ! Go tell the sergeant to step this way with his men. (Fleming rolls partly over, writhing, but fails to loosen rope, a7id finally lies still.) Lige. A' right, sah — I's gwine. {Exit, R. u. e.) Fernbrook {kissing Diana). Keep a brave front, and up- hold me in all I do. Diana. I have every faith in you, Jack, and you will al- 60 BEE FRIEND, THE ENEMY ways find me waiting here for you. But be careful for my sake. Fernbrook. For your sake, anything ! Sh ! they are coming ! (Zr