Price 25 Cts. /^'^\\fL!!% ^ The '^Sm^ Chariiy Pupil A Play in Four Acts By CAROLYN FRANCES RICE, and MARION SPRING CLARK A boarding school epi- sode, lively with viva- cious pranks and inter- esting situations. The plot is strong and culmi- nates in a happy surprise. Stunts and specialties in- troduced. A splendid class play. 14 female characters. Copyright, 1912, BY March Brothers. MARCH BROTHERS, PubUshers 208. 210. 212 Wright Ave.. Lebanon, O. No Entertainments Exchanged. No Entertainments sent on selection or subject to return. An Anti "Saloon Play A Washington Song A Book of Dialogs — BY — ARCHIBALD HUMBOLDT We pvblUh no more important items than these. They are too new for our catalog. the Saloon Itlust 60 An antl-saloou play. A powerful arraignment of the saloon, made into a most engaging dialog, with enough plot to carry it along. A terrific bombardment of hot shot, embracing facts, com- parisons, logic, song and story. More effective than a dozen addresses. Should be used in every saloon fight, and made a part of every church and school entertainment. For high school pupils or other young folks. Two males, three females ; Three-quarter hour. 15 cents. tbe Song 07 m Ratchet A humorous song for Washington's Birthday. It recounts the story and cites a parallel, also humorously points a moral. The range is suited to children's voices; the music is most pleasing. A climax for every Washington program. 25 cents. School Plays for Jt$m Bays More than a score of the richest, spiciest origi- nal dialogs for all grades, from primary to high school, and for mixed grades. Some are instruct- ive, some are ethical, most are humorous, all are practical, and every one is a winner. No cos- tumes, stage settings or scenery required. Can be given on any stage with the best results. No other collection of plays so good, so practical, so enjoyable. 80 cents. MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers, 208. 210. 212 Wright Ave.. - Lebanon. Ohio The Charity Pupil A Play in Four Acts By Carolyn Frances Rice, and Marion Spring Clark MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers 208, 210, 212 WRIGHT AVE., LEBANON, OHIO h ■ / - A \ Copyright, 1912, BY March Brothers. TMP96-007080 / ©CLD .30802 CAST OF CHARACTERS Miss Elizadeth Langlev, Mistress of Johnson Hall. Magnolia Simpson, her protege. Hetty Perkins, maid. Miss Matilda Jerusha Green, supposed board- ing school inspector. Pupils. Bernice Jui.ien, leader in the school. Ethel Fenleigk, the snob. Clementina Clarissa Chester, alias Toddles, who uses slang. Florence Norton, who brags. Esther Lewiston, who airs her grandmother's views. Clarice Long. Joyce Miller. Kitty Emerson, hzLhy of the school. Betty Maitland, Olive Arlington, friends of the girls. (Costumes, modern.) SYNOPSIS Act I. — School sitting room. An afternoon and evening of the same day. Act n. — Same. The next morning. Act hi. — Bernice's room. Evening cf next day. Act IV. — School sitting room. A month later, Commencement Day. The Charity Pupil ACT I. Scene. — Sitting room at Johnson Hall. Curtain rises showing girls around piano, singing. (Any school or popular song.) Toodlcs (after song). I say, girls, that's a cracking good song. (Enter Bernice hurriedly.) Bernicc. Oh, girls, what do you think? Toadies. Nothing. I never do ! Esther. Well, what's up? All. Do tell us ! Bernice. Oh, you will have to guess first. Kitty. Miss Langley is going to let us have ice cream for supper ? Um-um ! Bernice. Oh, you're freezing ! Clarice. We are all going driving Saturday? Florence. I'm sure I don't know. Ethel. It's a wonder you admit it. Bernice. Well, T guess I shall have to tell you. Miss Langley has consented to take in a poor pupil, a regular country greenhorn. Toodles. Well, I'll be jiggered! Ethel. Of all things ! Clarice. She probably will have wisps of hay in her hair, likely as not try to blow out the gas, and — Esther. Eat with her knife, of course. 5 6 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Kitty. What do you suppose she will look like, girls? Ethel (sarcastically). Oh, a raving, tearing beauty, of course. Florence. 1 suppose that she will talk with a regular Down East twang and through her nose at that (imitating it). Esther. My grandmother says Down East people are respectable, to say the least. Bernice. 'I heard her mother is a special friend of Miss Langley's, so, of course, she will get all the petting. Ethel. I know that she will be ill-bred and extremely repulsive to my finer sensibilities. Esther. And mine! Clarice. Same here ! Toodles (aside). Now wouldn't that jar you! Esther. Well, girls, my grandmother says don't cross your bridges before you come to them. Ethel. No, and after all, we don't have to have anything to do with her. (Enter Hetty.) Hetty. Well, young ladies, I've got some news for you. Miss Langley had a caller this after- noon, and I just bethought meself that the brass fixin's on the door needed cleanin', and so — Toodles. Then, Hetty, you were doing some rubbering as well as rubbing. (Girls laugh.) Hetty (ignoring her). And from what I beared I take it she's a havin' another girl come to the Hall. THE CHARITY PUPIL. 7 Joyce. Oh, tell us some news, Hetty ! Hetty. You've heard, have you? Well, as I was a goin' to say, she don't have to pay for tuition and board, neither. Kitty. Really? (Girls stare in surprise.) Ethel. A charity pupil ! Hetty. And 1 was thinkin' as how I could work her in for makin' beds, and dustin', and washin' dishes, and mebbe for cleanin' up after your spreads, and — Toadies. Oh, you talk too much, Hetty. Hetty (starts). Land sakes, here conies Miss Langley. (Hetty exits.) Toodlcs. Beat it, Hetty. (Girls scramble wildly for books and fall into attitudes of study.) (Enter Miss Langley.) Miss Langley. My dear girls, I had not ex- pected to find you studying. Why, Bernice, my dear, what book is that in which you are so deeply interested? The dictionary? What is there you wish to find in such a hurry? Bernice. Oh, er — I — 1 only wanted to find the definition of prestidigitator. Miss Langley. Yevy good, my dear, very good, indeed. Bernice (aside). Whew, that was a narrow escape ! Aliss Langley. Now pujt up your books, young ladies, for there is something about which I would like to speak to you. As you know and knew, when you came here, Johnson Hall is not 8 THE CHARITY PUPIL. an establishment of any great financial backing, and — (bell rings). Hetty (outside). You're wanted, Miss Lang- ley, ma'am. (Exit Miss Langley.) Kitty. I wonder who it is. (Girls listen in- tently.) Bernice. Hark ! Miss Langley is speaking, I think. (She goes to door and opens it a crack to hear.) Miss Lanylc'y (outside). Magnolia, my dear child — . (Girls snicker..) Florence. What a name ! Miss Langley (outside). I did not expect you until to-morrow. Why you are the very image of your mother. You must let me intro- duce you to the girls. (Bernice shuts the door hastily and runs back to her seat.) (Enter Miss Langley, with Magnolia follow- ing shyly.) Miss Langley. Young ladies^ I have the pleas- ure of presenting to you my young friend and protege, Miss Magnolia Simpson (drawing Mag- nolia forward) of Fairville, Maine. (She holds out her hand, but girls pretend not to see it, except Bernice, who shakes it gingerly.) I hope you girls will be very good friends. (Girls ex- change glances.) Now, girls, go to your rooms and get readv for the evening meal. At tea time you will have a chance to become better ac- quainted. (Turning to Magnolia.) Come, my dear, I will take you to your room. THE CHARITY PUPIL. 9 (Exit Miss Langley and Magnolia.) Ethel. Just as T expected — from Wayback ! Joyce. And what a name, too ! (Pause.) Clarice. Well, girls, we can call her Mag! Toodles. No high-falutin' names for me. Ethel. Oh, no, none for you, Miss Clementina Clarissa Chester ! Toodles (making a face). Young ladies, I have the pressure of presenting to you Miss Mongolia Samson. (Girls laugh.) Florence. Well, I am sure that my mother would seriously object to my having anything to do with such a commonplace individual. (Tea- bell rings. Girls rise.) Kitty. Oh, hurry girls, or we'll be late. Bernice. Remember, be on your best behavior to-night, for we have with us "my young friend and protege. Miss Magnolia Simpson." (Exit girls.) (Enter Hetty.) Hetty. This way, ma'am, this way. (Ushers in Miss Matilda Green.) "Miss Langley is hav- ing tea now, ma'am, but I will tell her as how you be here. Miss Green. Here is my card. (Hetty takes it and exits.) Miss Green (settling herself). Now to fol- low out Mr. Simpson's directions and play the role of an amateur detective. (Opens bag and takes out letter'and spectacles.) These are what you might call my marching orders from Mr. Simpson. (Reads.) 10 THE CHARITY PUPIL. "The Wells, Mexico, May — , 19 — . "Miss Matilda ureen. "Dear Friend — Please ascertain, to the best of your ability, how worthy Johnson Hall is of my endowment." So that's his plan, is it? (reads). "Also find out if those so-called 'ladies' act as such, and how they treat a little country girl, like my daughter, Magnolia. It was extremely kind of Miss Langley to remember the friend of her childhood days, and, in my absence, care for her daughter, since her mother's death. I would be only too glad to endow the school. The oil wells down here in Mexico are proving of more value than I dared hope. I do not wish you to let Magnolia know of my whereabouts for a short time, and I also wish to keep the fact that I am growing rich a secret. "Hoping to hear from you in due time, I remain, "Yours respectfully, "James T. Simpson." Miss Green (folding letter). I will endeavor to do all I can for him. (Takes out large hand- kerchief from bag and blows nose vigorously.) I will take advantage of the opportunity and look around. (Gets up and inspects room.) It is kind of untidy, though. Still, girls will be girls. (Picks up Shakespeare from bookcase.) Ah! vShakespeare ! (Finds pickled lime near where book has been, and picks it up gingerly.) What is this — a lemon? They evidently find the sub- ject rather dry. (Drops lime into bag.) I don't want to get them into trouble. (Pause.) Here comes the madam, I guess. (Primps before glass.) (Enter Miss Langley.) THE CHARITY PUPIL. 11 Miss Langley. This is Miss Green, is it not? I am Miss Langley. Miss Green. Yes, I'm Miss Green — Matilda Jerusha Green, named for both my grandmoth- ers. I am a boarding school inspector. You may have heard of me. Miss Langley. No, I can not say that I have. Miss Green (aside). Nor any one else! Miss Langley. Can I help you in any way? Miss Green. Yes, indeed. Of course, I al- ways remain a while at each school and join the pupils in all they do. I do not wish to have you inform the girls of my errand while I am here. Miss Langley. Very well, I understand your errand and acquiesce to what you have said. Per- haps you are tired and would like to retire imme- diately to your room. Miss Green. I would, if I may. (Miss Langley rings for Hetty.) (Enter Hetty.') Lletty. Ma'am? Miss Langley. Please show Miss Green to her room. Hetty. Yes'm ! (She takes Miss Green's bag.) Miss Green. Thank you. Miss Langley. Good night. Miss Langley. Good night. Miss Green. (Exit Hetty, with Miss Green following.) (Exit Miss Langley.) (Enter Magnolia.) 12 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Magnolia (looking around). I think I shall like this place very much. The grounds of John- son Hall are beautiful. Mother told me once that in the garden there is a quaint old sun-dial, which bears the inscription, "I only mark the sunny hours." (Pauses and looks around.) When I found that Johnson Hall was to be my home for a while, I was very happy, for I knew there were girls here of my own age. As mother was sick so much, and I had the care of her and the house, too, I had no chance to make any intimate friends. My books were my only com- panions. (Picks book up from tal)le.) Oh, here is my old friend, "The Idylls of the King." (Set- tles herself to read.) (Bernice, Toodles, Florence, Ethel, Kitty, aside at entrance.) Kitty (nudging Bernice). You go first. (Enter girls.) Bernice (diffidently). How do you like the school ? Do you think you will be homesick ? Magnolia. Oh, I think I shall enjoy it very much. It seems a little strange at first, you know. Ethel (condescendingly). What sort of a home have you, Mag? Magnolia. Oh, just a simple country home, but life was never monotonous and we had many good times. Florence. What do you call good times, Mag? Magnolia. In the winter we have sleighing parties and quilting bees, and in the summer and THE CHARITY PUPIL. 13 autumn we have hay parties and husking bees. At the quilting parties we have contests to see who can quilt the fastest. Florence. Oh, I am sure I could quilt the fastest and best of any one. Ethel. Did you ever try it? Florence. No, but I am sure I could. Bern ice. Oh, of course. Magnolia. Does Miss Langley have any spe- cial rules here ? Kitty. 1 think she is very strict. Toodles. Ahem ! Well, I guess she is not ! Not by a jugful ! Bernice. Oh, Magnolia, don't look so alarmed. Miss Langley isn't what Kitty says she is at all, but she is firm on certain things. Magnolia. What things? Toodles. Oh — er — we have to take a glass of molasses and water before each meal, and a soda mint after. Drink lots of Hood's buttermilk to insure long life, and climb three flights of stairs twice a day to make us highminded. Ethel. Toodles, don't be ridiculous ! Bernice (explaining). Oh, the rules are really very simple. Promptness at meals and recita- tions, neatness of dress and proper chaperonage when leaving the school — these are the principal rules. Magnolia. Well, I am sure those are very simple. (Rises.) Ycu must excuse me now, for my unpacking is yet to be done. (Starts to 14 THE CHARITY PUPIL. leave room.) Oh, I forgot to ask you what time the hghts must be out. Kitty. At ten o'clock. Magnolia. Ten o'clock ! Why, I always go to bed at eight. At my home all respectable people are in bed by that time. Ethel. Then I suppose you do not consider us respectable people. Magnolia. I didn't mean that exactly, but — er — well, good night and thank you very much. (Exit Magnolia.) Toodles. Humph ! Goes to bed with the chickens. (Enter Clarice, Joyce and Esther.) Joyce. Oh, here you are ! We have been looking everywhere for you. Bernice. You should have been here. We have been having an interview with Miss Mag. Kitty. Yes, and she has just left us to go to bed. Bed! just think! Esther. My grandmother says it is none too early. Bernice (rising). Well, where is — (looking for handkerchief). I guess I must have left it in the dining room. (Exit Bernice.) Clarice. I met Betty and Olive this morning, and they said they would try and come over the next half holiday. Esther. We must try and get up some cele- bration for them. Joyce. It will take Bernice to plan for that. THE CHARITY PUPIL. 15 (Enter Bernice.) IBcrnice (excitedly). Oh, girls, I have just heard the azvf idlest thing ! All. What's the matter? Bernice. As I passed Miss Langley's office I caught a glimpse of her looking very glum and in her hand were some papers which looked very much like deeds. (She pauses for breath.) Toodles. Don't leave us in suspense ! Bernice. I heard a man's voice, too. Toodles. The plot thickens ! Enter the vil- lian ! Bernice. He was saying something about fore- closing a mortgage. What do you suppose he meant? (Pause.) Could that have been what Miss Langley was going to tell us this afternoon? Clarice. Surely there can't be a mortgage on the school ! Esther. My grandmother says that mortgages are awful things. Ethel. So she has had experience? Bernice (doubtfully). Well, you know the finances have been at a rather low ebb for a long- time. Toodles. It is about time for the fairy god- mother to appear. Joyce. Those things are always in stories. Clarice. ^Vouldn't it be awful if Miss Lang- ley did have to close Johnson Hall ! Ethel. What a disgrace it would be to have my name connected with a school too poor to pay its debts. 16 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Toodlcs. It's too bad about you ! Beniice. There are more serious things to consider than the disgrace to your name, Ethel. (Pause.) Joyce. Isn't there anything we can do? Kitty. I am afraid not. Esther. Miss Langley may wish to tell us about it herself, so we would better not say any- thing about it just now ! (Bell rings. Girls rise.) Florence. Betty and Olive are coming over Thursday, and we want you, Bernice, to help us plan for a celebration. Bernice. I know what we can do. A spread ! All. The very thing ! Bernice. We can talk about it upstairs in my room, for the bell has rung and we must not stop. (Exit girls.) Curtain. ACT II. Scene. — Same as Act I. Next morning. (Enter Hetty and Magnolia.) Hetty. Now this room has to be dusted every morning. I keep the dusters and dust-cap in that bag (pointing). Miss Langley is petikler about the dustin', so be sure an' do it v/ell, an' don't be afraid to reach up (pointing). Well, I'll leave it to you, for I must go along about my THE CHARITY PUPIL. 17 work. (She peeks back through door and smiles knowingly. Magnolia goes toward dust-bag.) Hetty. My, but I worked that easy ! (Exi't Hetty.) Magnolia (pulling out dust-cap). What a cute little cap! (holding it up.) At home I al- ways used a cloth tied around my head (putting it on before glass). Why, isn't that pretty! I look like Evangeline in it, or — or Priscilla, the Puritan maiden. (Pulls dust cloth out and shakes it; starts dusting.) Well, this table doesn't look as if it had been dusted under here for a week. What a dust ! I wonder what girl it was that dusted under here yesterday. (Gets down side of piano to dust.) I am glad the girls share the work. It seems like home, helping this way. (Hums to herself.) (Enter Bernice, Toodles, Florence, Esther, Ethel and Joyce, not seeing Magnolia.) Bernice. Oh, girls, we're behind on our Ten- nyson — that is, I am. Ethel. Fm just as far behind as you are. Esther. And I guess you could beat me ! Bernice. You know Miss Langley expects us to recite part of "Elaine," Friday. Toodles. Well, then, we better get on to our job. Ethel. Toodles, you do use such disgusting English. (Toodles shrugs shoulders.) Bernice. Say, Joyce, pass over the "Idylls of the King;" it's right on the table. (Joyce looks books over.) 18 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Joyce. It's not here. Florence. Well, then, let's see if we can do without it. I know I can, of course. (Girls exchange glances.) Esther. Very well, then, Florence, we can learn from you. Toodles. Pitch in, now. Miss Brag. Florence. Bernice, you recite with me. You know it's that part where Elaine is dead, and they put her on a raft and send her down the river. Bernice. I'll do the best I can. Bernice and Florence (reciting). "So those two brethren from the chariot took, And on the black decks laid her in her bed, Set in her hand a lily, and kissed her quiet brow, Saying, "Sister, farewell forever." Then rose the dumb .old servitor, and the dead. Steered by the dumb, went upward with the flood." (They both stop.) Bernice. With the flood — with the flood — er — (pause). Florence, now is your chance; you know it all (sarcastically). Florence. Well, I — er — well, really I — (a pause). Bernice (ignoring Florence). IJ'ill somebody go on ? Magnolia (stepping forward with duster. Girls jump in surprise. As she begins to recite they nudge one another and stare at her). THE CHARITY PUPIL. 19 "In her right, the Hly, in her left, The letter — all her bright hair streaming down — And all the coverlid was cloth of gold. Drawn to her waist, and she herself in white All but her face, and that clear-featured face ' Was lovely, for she did not seem as dead, But fast asleep, and lay as though she smiled." (A pause.) Bernice (stepping forward). Well, Mag, where did you learn Tennyson, and zuhat are you doing here? Magnolia. Oh, mother and I used to read to- gether. She was very fond of Tennyson and so am I. I am glad you are studying "Idylls of the King." Esther. But how did you happen to be in here? Magnolia. Why, this is my morning to do the dusting! (Girls exchange glances.) Ethel (loftily). Well, I don't have to work for my board. (Magnolia turns away.) Toodles (aside). Oh, this is part of Hetty's little game, is it? Joyce. Let's get out of the dust. Ethel. We'll go into the garden and finish our lesson. (Magnolia resumes dusting.) Toodles. Farewell, Lady Mag! Bernice (to others as they go out). Well, girls, she isn't quite as green as we thought ! Ethel. She needn't come here trying to teach me. (Exit girls.) 20 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Magnolia. The girls here treat me very strangely. And they call me "Mag." Nobody ever called me "Mag" before except that mean little scamp of a Tommy Sparks, and that when he was the most hateful. If the girls do this way, I shall hate them (showing anger). But I must not forget that mother said kindness begets kindness everywhere. I will try not to notice it. (Enter Miss Green.) Miss Green (stopping a moment and looking at Magnolia). Are you Miss Langley's maid? Magnolia (starting and turning around). No; I'm one of Miss Langley's pupils (taking off her dust-cap). Miss Green. Oh, then perhaps you can tell me who owns Johnson Hall ? Magnolia. It has been in the Langley family for three generations. Miss Green. Do you know whether the school pays and whether it is free from debt? Magnolia (hesitatingly). Well, I heard Miss Langley tell my mother about two years ago that she had lost money l^y bad investments, and had to mortgage the school. I remember she cried about it. (Pausing and looking startled.) Are you Miss Green? Perhaps I have told you some- thing that should be kept secret. Miss Green. It is perfectly safe with me, child. But I noticed, as I came in, that you were dust- ing. Do the girls help with the work? Magnolia. Oh, yes, indeed, we take our turn dusting and doing the chamberwork. THE CHARITY PUPIL. 21 Miss Green. Does the new girl from the coun- try seem to enjoy the school? Magnolia (stammeringly). Why — er — I — yes, I think she will. I'm the new girl, you know. Miss Green. Oh! Well, I must not keep you from your work. Good morning, my dear. (Exit.) Magnolia. I guess Miss Green is right. I was wasting time. (Resuming work.) (Enter Miss Langley.) Miss Langley ( pausing and looking in great surprise at Magnolia). Magnolia! is it possi- ble— Magnolia. Oh, Miss Langley, is it so late? I have not meant to waste time, but Miss Green called and she talked to me. I will make up for lest time now. (Starts dusting hurriedly.) Miss Langley. But why are you in here dust- ing? Magnolia. Why, Miss Langley, don't you know ? It's my morning to do this work ! Adiss Langley. Your morning? What do you mean? Where is Hetty? Magnolia. Hetty? Oh, she told me that the girls take turns dusting, and this happens to be my morning. Miss Langley (gasps). Do you mean to tell me Hetty told you this about the dusting? (Starts to leave stage.) Well, I must see her about this immediately ! Magnolia (running after her). Why, Miss Langley, you aren't going to scold her? She was 22 THE CHARITY PUPIL. very kind and helped me with all the chamber- work. Perhaps, though, I misunderstood her. Miss Langlcy. I think you must have. (Exit.) Magnolia (looking regretfully after her). Oh, dear, I wish I hadn't said anything, but I can't see why she was so surprised. (Putting cap and duster away.) There, that's done. (Exit Mag- nolia.) (Enter Bernice and Clarice.) Bcrnice. Now, Clarice, I'm going to appoint you my assistant in the great work which is now to be undertaken (grandly). Clarice (saluting). At your service, madam — sir, I should say. Bernice. Namely, to prepare for a spread in honor of the renowned Betty Maitland and Olive Arlington. Clarice. Well, what are your plans for the campaign, general? Bernice. Of course, it's going to be a spread, and I — (girls laugh outside). Oh, bother, here come the girls. I will tell you the full particu- lars later. (Enter Esther, Toodles, Ethel, Florence, Kitty and Joyce.) Joyce. Oh, Bernice, when is the spread to be? Bernice. Why, let me see. To-morrow night, in my room. All. W^iat a lark ! Clarice (holding up hand). Ssh ! Spies are ever on the lookout. Beware ! THE CHARITY PUPIL. 23 Ethel. What time do you propose to have it? Bernice. L.leven o'clock, I guess. The lights are out at ten, and eleven all uninvited persons should be asleep. (Turning to Clarice.) Mind you listen at Aliss Langley's door to see if all be well. Clarice. If she's snoring I shall not need to listen. (Girls laugh. Pause.) Bernice. Say, girls, it doesn't seem quite right not to invite Magnolia. Ethel. What ! that charity pupil ! No, I guess not. If she comes, I'm — not — in it (turning away). Toodlcs. I'll risk your fine feelings interfer- ing with a spread. Elorence. Oh, well, you know she insists on going to bed at eight o'clock. Bernice. Very well, then, only I don't feel quite right about it. By the way, girls, you must each come prepared to do a stunt. Toodles (striking an attitude). "Give me liberty or give me de'ath," or give me — prunes. Florence. How will this do? (rolling her eyes and clutching wildly at the air.) Is it a dagger I see before me? Ethel. Unhand me, villian, or by my troth, thou wilt rue this day. Esther. My grandmother says that there is tragedy enough without afifecting it. Toodles. How will this do? (reciting with gesticulations, in a high-pitched voice.) 24 THE CHARITY PUPIL. "Twinkle, twiirkle, little star, How I wonder what you are; Up above the earth so high, Like a diamond in the sky." Joyce. Hear! hear! (Enter Hetty.) Bernice. What's the matter, Hetty? You look as xi your last friend had deserted you. Hetty (dejectedly). An' I guess she has, too. Miss Langley found out about my makin' the country girl do the dustin' this morning, an' — Florence (indignantly). Did she tell on you? I wouldn't have done such a mean thing. Bernice. No doubt Miss Langley found her dusting and she had to explain. Ethel. So you take Magnolia's part, do you? Bernice. Yes, I do. Hetty. An' if the young ladies ain't a goin' back on me. T oodles (tragically). You, too, Brutus. Esther (going over to her). Never mind, Hetty, we'll stand by you. My grandmother says, "Never desert a friend in distress." (Exit Hetty.) Clarice. But what makes you take Mag's part, Bernice? Bernice. Well, to tell the truth, I have no special reason, except that we are no better than she is. I was once Bernice Julien, not Bernice Julien, the daughter of the financier, Hiram P. Julien. In the first private school I attended I was treated very much as we are treating Mag- THE CHARITY TUPIL. 25 nolia here. Oh, you needn't stare^I was. Each time I tried to make a friendly advance, it was, "Oh, it's you, is it?" (imitating.) And I can tell you I felt pretty sore and homesick. I have no doubt Magnolia feels the same way, but tries not to show it. That's why I take her part. So there ! Kitty (after a slight pause). Well, I don't know but what you ore right. Clarice. And I. for one, would like to know her better. Joyce. So would I. Ethel (loftily). Oh, no doubt she stands high in the society of Fairville, and is a very much sought-after belle. Bernice. Well, Fairville would be good enough for me, and as for society — oh, some people come up from the ashcart business, you know. (Ethel looks uncomfortable.) Esther. I heard my grandmother say she once heard a minister, who said, "Don't be ashamed of your business if it's honest, even if it's peddling soap grease !" Toodles. Oh, come off with your soft soap! Ethel. Magnolia may be respectable and all that, but I don't think she is in my class. Joyce. No. She is in the class above you. Bernice. Appearances are deceitful. Re- member the Tennyson incident ! Toodles. I should say they are. Florence. Oh, I'm never fooled by appear- ances. I guess not ! 26 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Kitty. Some people never are ! (Enter Hetty, ushering in Olive and Betty in street clothes.) Hetty. Miss Bernice, here be some young ladies inquirin' for you. Bernice. Visitors? At this time of day? Olive (coming forward). Yes. Hullo, every- body ! All. Hullo ! hullo ! Bernice (jumping up). Why, Olive Arling- ton, you here? And Betty? We didn't expect you were coming until to-morrow. Take off your things, girls. (Hetty takes them and exits.) OUtc. We received permission from Miss Langley to spend to-night instead of to-morrow night. (Girls look at one another with woe- begone faces.) Kitty. But you can stay to-morrow night, too, can you not? Olive. No ; one night is all we are allowed. (Chorus of groans from girls.) Esther. But our spread ! Betty. What spread ? Florence. You have let it all out now, Esther, we may as well tell. Esther. My grandmother always said I couldn't keep a secret. Bernice. Well, you see we had planned a grand spread in your honor for to-morrow night. Now all that seems spoiled, but — we must think of some way to keep you here. Olive. Yes; it would be awful to miss that. THE CHARITY PUPIL. 27 Betty. That's right, it would. Joyce. Something must turn up in our favor. (Enter Miss Langley and Miss Green.) Miss Langley (pausing at doorway). Miss Green, these are my girls. This is my friend, Miss INIatikla Green, young ladies. (Girls bow.) Miss ■Green. I am very glad to meet the girls. Miss Langley (to girls). Miss Green is to stay a while here, and would like to make herself one of us. Miss Green. I have already met one of the pupils. • She was dusting this room this morning. She is a very charming girl, and if she represents the character of the school, it is one of which to be proud. (Girls exchange glances.) Bernice (aside). Another champion ! Miss Langley. Miss Green wishes to make a tour of the school before dinner time, so we must be moving. (Starts to go out, but turns back.) Oh, I meant to tell you that to-morrow I shall be away on business, and expect to remain over night. (Exit Miss Langley and Miss Green.) T oodles. Now, what do you know about that? Bernice (jumping up). I knoiu that it will give us a chance to have our spread after all. All. Oh, goody! goody! Olive. Just the very loophole we were looking for. Bernice. Now Miss Langley will never know what an eventful night was spent during her absence. 28 THE CHARITY PUPIL. T oodles. Hooray ! Three cheers for the ab- sence that makes the heart grow fonder. All (in muffled voices). Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah ! Curtain. ACT ni. Curtain rises, sliowing Bernice's room ready for the spread. Girls in pretty kimonos. (For the stunts, introduce any Recitations, Readings, Monologs, Dialogs, Drills, and Musical numbers — these selections to be governed by the accomplishments of the participants.) Bernice (surveying room). There, I guess everything is ready now. The girls ought to be here pretty soon, for it has now reached the witching hour of eleven (glancing at clock). My, those olives look good ! (Enter Esther, with candle, which she blows out at door.) Esther. So I am the first arrival ? My grand- mother says it is always best to be a little ahead of time. Bernice (sweetly). Oh, does she? (Aside.) I guess it's more likely she wants to be sure of the "eats!" (Enter Betty and Olive, with Clarice and Joyce, with candles.) Clarice. Well, I'm satisfied that no one has any inkling of what is going on. Miss Green THE CHARITY PUPIL. 29 ought to be a very sound sleeper, at least, I hope she is for our sakes, and I don't think Hetty- would give us away. (Girls make themselves at home.) Olive. You certainly have prepared a royal feast for us. Joyce. Oh, T do wish the girls would come. (Enter Ethel, 1 oodles, Florence, Kitty, with candles.) Betty. Speaking of angels, they appear. Toodles. Pretty near "angels of darkness." These lights out at ten make it bad for us. Kitty. We were fortunate to have candles. Bernice. No candles for me this night. The school will be out just so much more for gas, for what is a spread without light? Ethel. Have you all got your stunts prepared ? Florence. Oh, I thought of mine the very first thing. I have practiced it so much that I am per- fectly sure of it. Toodles. So that was what ailed you last night, was it? You jabbered so in your sleep, I thought you were going to have a fit. Olive. Poor thing! to have such a ferocious bedfellow ! Toodles. It is hard. Bernice. I guess we can start in now. Is everyone here? Joyce. Yup ! Betty. Now for the feast ! Kitty. Oh, isn't it just scrumptious! (Girls sit down preparatory to eating.) 30 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Bernice (drawing Betty and Olive forward). These, friends, schoolmates, countrymen, are the guests of honor. To them will be allotted the seat nearest the macaroons and these choice im- ported olives. (Girls start in to eat schoolgirl spread fashion.) Ethel. I'm so glad Miss Langley was called away. Wasn't it fortunate for us ? All. Yes, wasn't it? Bernice. Perhaps we had better start in with the stunts now, and get them over with in case we are interrupted. Kitty, you give yours first. (Kitty gives stvuit. Applause.) Joyce. Just pass over those jelly sandwiches. Bernice. Well, Toodles, are you ready with your stunt? Toodles. "You would scarce expect one of my age, to appear in public on the stage." Betty. Hear ! hear ! Olive. We have a poetess in our midst ! Toodles (rising). No, not every one can be a poet, any more than any sheep can be a go-at ! Ethel. Horrors ! Again ? Florence. Please spare us ! (Toodles gives stunt. Applause.) (A loud knock is heard at the door. All stop in petrified amazement.) Bernice. Good gracious, it's Miss Langley! Quick, girls, hide! (Wild confusion. Girls scatter behind table, chairs, etc., etc. Another knock. Bernice goes to door and unlocks it.) (Enter Miss Green, with candle.) THE CHARITY PUPIL. 31 Bernicc. Why, good evening, Miss Green. (Turning to girls, in stage whisper.) It's only- Miss Green, girls. Miss Green (affably, with some sarcasm). I hope I am not very late. I have never had a chance to attend a girls' midnight party before, so I appreciate all the more your thoughtfulness in inviting me. (Settles herself comfortably in chair, as girls gradually emerge from hiding places.) Bernice (to Clarice). Of all queer things! Who invited her? Clarice. T certainly didn't. (Both laugh.) She must have overheard our plans. Bernice. It's all up with us now! Miss Green (looking around). This seems to be a kimono party. If I had known — but there, I haven't one with me anyway. (Pausing and eying the girls closely.) How often do you have these kimono parties? Esther. We call them "spreads." Ethel. We are giving this in honor of two of our friends. Miss Langley lets us have them when we have been very good. (Girls gasp.) Clarice. We find it convenient, however, to have them while she is away, for we know then that the noise will not disturb her. Bernice (to Betty and Olive). I suppose we would better ask her to stay. Evidently she in- tends to do so. We'll be in for it when Miss Langley gets home to-morrow, though ! 32 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Olive. Try and be as nice to her as possible, and maybe she won't tell ! Bernice (turning to Miss Green, who has been talking with some of the girls). We would like to have you stay with us, Miss Green. Miss Green (aside). This will be a good place to learn something of the girls' ways. Thank you, my dear, I should like to. Ethel. We have a little entertainment always. Perhaps you can contribute something toward it? Miss Green. If I had known I was to be present at a midnight — what do you call it ? Joyce. A midnight "spread." Miss Green. Oh, yes. If I had known I was to be present at a midnight "spread," I certainly should have tried to prepare something to add to the enjoyment. As it is, I am unprepared. (Girls pass food to her.) There are some re- maining numbers on the program, I hope. T oodles. Yes ; Florence was just going to give her stunt when you came in. Bernice (aside to Florence). Go ahead, Flor- ence ; she's one of us, you know. (Florence gives stunt. Applause.) Miss Green. My dear, you have the art of making us laugh ! Florence. Thank you. Bernice. The next number on the program will be a comb solo by the world-renowned Pro- fessor St. Clair Longa de Winda, of the Jon- sohn Orchestra! THE CHARITY PUPIL. 33 (Clarice gives stunt with several stops for wind. Applause.) Miss Green. You are indeed a virtuoso ! Olive. We ought to have a bicycle pump to keep you supplied with wind. Ethel. Can't you give us "Silver Threads Among the Gold ?" Clarice. No ; that's not in my repertoire as a solo. Joyce. Say, girls, give three reasons why a man is like a kerosene lamp. Esther (after a short pause). Because he lights up once in a while. Joyce. Way off! Betty. Because he frequently needs refilling? Joyce. That might make the lourth one, but it's not one of the three that I am thinking of. Bernice. I give it up ! Olive. So do L Florence. And I ! Joyce. First, because lie often goes out at night ; second, because he smokes a great deal ; and last, because he is easily turned down. Ethel. Good enough. Miss Green. Well, I have never given much thought to the whys and wherefores of men, so I've never tried to think why a man is like a lamb. (Girls smile suggestively.) Bernice. Come Esther and Betty and your colleagues, are you ready for your stunt ? Betty (aside). Oh, my, do we come next? (Esther groans.) 34 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Ethel. Go ahead, you four ! (Esther, Betty, Kitty and Joyce give stunt. Applause.) Miss Green. You did very well, my dears. Joyce. Thank you ! (Others smile.) Miss Green. You have quite a roomful. Miss Hostess. Are all the girls here ? Bernice. Yes — I — that is — Kitty. All but Magnolia. Aliss Green. She is the new girl, is she not? Clarice. Yes. She is not quite used to our ways yet, and she — Joyce. Insists on going to bed at eight o'clock. Miss Green. Now, do you know, I think she is a very sensible girl. (Girls exchange glances.) Esther. Well, now, that is what my grand- mother would say. Florence. The next stunt is in order now. Bernice, I should think it was about your turn. (Ethel and Olive go to back of room behind screen.) Bernice (rising). I depended on you girls to furnish the entertainment, but if I must — . Here goes. (Bernice gives stunt. Applause.) Betty. That's great ! Miss Green. You certainly missed your call- ing, my dear ! You should have gone on the vaudeville stage. Bernice (smiVing). I am thinking of it. (After a slight pause.) There is still one more stunt that we haven't had. Ethel and Olive are going THE CHARITY PUPIL. 35 to give theirs now. (The)^ come forward and give stunt. Applause.) Miss Green. That was very pretty my dears, yes, very pretty. Bernice (to Miss Green). Miss Green, this is the last of the stunts. Now we are going to have a closing selection by the famous Jonsohn Orchestra. If you had remained in bed, we wouldn't have dared do this. As it is, this will beat all the noises you have heard yet. (They laugh.) Come on, girls! (She pulls out from under couch, horns, combs, harmonicas, tin pans, etc., etc., and hands them to the girls.) We will play to-night, at Miss Fenleigh's request, "Silver Threads Among the Gold." (The girls "play." Bernice conducts, beating time with a baton, or plays violin or other in- strument, sustaining the melody. Piano, light accompaniment. Miss Green covers her ears with her hands. Piano continues to play as cur- tain goes down.) Curtain. ACT IV. Scene. — School sitting room just after commence- ment exercises. Graduates distinguished from others by white dresses. (Enter Magnolia, Kitty, Joyce and Clarice.) Magnolia. This is the first Commencement Pve ever attended. 36 THE CHARITY PUPIL. Clarice. I am to graduate next year. Joyce. Didn't our girls carry off the honors well? Magnolia. Ethel must be very bright to win the scholarship. Clarice. Toodles would have carried off the prize for "English as it is spoke" all right if there had been one. Kitty. Toodles is not nearly so slangy as she used to be. I think she has improved. (Enter Bernice, Ethel, Florence, Toodles, Esther, with diplomas.) Toodles. I tell you, this does give one a down- in-the-mouth feeling. Still, there is some satis- faction in knowing that we do look "classy." Magnolia (aside). Not so much improve- ment after all. Bernice. This is the last of the dear old "Golden Rule" days. Ethel. Oh, talk about something more cheer- ful. Florence. Well, we certainly have the pleasure of looking back over many good times. Joyce. The spread, for instance. Esther. Do you know my conscience has troubled me about that spread ? Toodles. Been hearing from your grand- mother lately, haven't you, Esther? Esther. I wouldn't need to. Ethel. Well, I must say I have felt it was beneath my principles to lend myself to anything THE CHARITY PUPIL. 37 in the way of deception, even if I did have a good time out of it. Toodles. Oh, cut it out ! Kitty. Miss Langley has been so good to us, it doesn't seem right to break rules even for a good time. B entice. Well, girls, I felt just as you do, and felt so strongly that I took it upon myself to tell Miss Langley all aI)out it. (Girls look aston- ished.) Clarice. You told her? All. What did she say? Bernice. She didn't say very much, but I am glad I told her. Miss Langley believes "an open confession is good for the soul," and I am sure includes us all in her forgiveness. (Girls nod approval.) Miss Langley is evidently in serious trouble. I only hope it will come out all right. Ethel. I am very glad you told her. (Slight pause. ) Clarice. To change the subject, you must feel pretty sore, Bernice, over losing the scholarship. Bernice. 1 don't see why you should all think that I should win. We have all worked for it, and I am sure Ethel wins fairly. (Going to Ethel.) Ethel, I congratulate you. (Shaking hands.) Ethel. Thank you, Bernice ! Next to win- ning myself, I should like to have had you win. Bernice. Trying has been good for me. Per- haps being beaten is good for me, too. By the 38 THE CHARITY PUPIL. way, what are your plans for the summer, girls? Mother and I are going to join dad in London and go through Great Britain in our touring car. Kitty. I'm going to the Yellowstone Park for a while. Just think of it ! Esther. We's going to my grandmother's farm this year. Toodles. Your grandmother should have had a diploma, too, for she has been so much a part of us. I'm free to confess I hope she has grad- uated from my society for all time. Joyce. Give my best regards to your grand- mother when you see her. (Girls draw off to one side, talking, leaving Bernice and Magnolia on couch.) Bernice. What are you planning to do this summer, Magnolia? Magnolia (disconsolately). I don't know. I haven't heard from father for a long time. You know he went out West. I am beginning to worry about him. If I don't hear soon, I will have to find something to do during this summer, for I should be sorry to burden Miss Langley. Bernice. We must hope for the best. (Enter Miss Green.) Miss Green (to Ethel). My dear, I wish to congratulate you on winning the scholarship. It is indeed an honor. Ethel. Thank you. Miss Green (to girls). In this time I have stayed with you, I have found out the good times school-girls have are not all in books. Just here THE CHARITY PUPIL. 39 let me say Miss Langley does not know of your little kimono party. Dcrnicc. But she docs know, Miss Green. We have told her all about it. Miss Green. As that was the first and last I shall probably ever attend, I did not wish to spoil it by getting you into trouble. I think you did quite right to tell her. Girls, I have something nice to tell you (feeling in her pocket). Why, I thought I had the letter with me. I must have left it in my room. (Exit.) (Enter Miss Langley slowly.) Miss Langley (seating herself). Dear girls, I hate to mar your happy day, but there is some- thing of importance I wish to tell you. There is a very heavy mortgage on Johnson Hall. The time expires to-morrow. So Johnson Hall will have to be closed and sold. It has been in the family for more than three generations. Oh, it seems more than I can bear (burying her face in her hands). Bernice (going up to her). Oh, Miss Lang- ley, I am so very, very sorry ! Ethel. Can't something be done? Kitty. And I can't have any Commencement ! Clarice. Oh, don't think of such things now, Kitty. (Enter Hetty, excitedly, with telegram.) Hetty. Miss Green — girls— Miss Langley — oh, ma'am, it's a telegraphum ! Miss Langley. Bernice, you read ; I — I can't ! (Bernice opens and reads.) 40 THE CHARITY PUPIL. (Enter Miss Green. She stops in surprise.) "To Miss Elizabeth Langley, "Johnson Hall, N. Y. : "Johnson Hall endowed by me. Amount, $50,Q00. Receive check to-morrow. Miss Green will explain. Love to my daughter Magnolia. "J.\MES T. Simpson." (Miss Langley looks dazed. Girls gasp in astonishment.) Ethel (grabbing girl nearest her). A charity pupil, eh ! Florence (aside). I knew as much! Miss Green (coming forward with self-satis- fied air, unfolding a letter). I was about to tell the good news 1 received yesterday to you all, but thought I would wait until the excitement of the exercises was over. Miss Langley. Oh, it can't — ^it can't be true. (She falls back, while girls run for smelling salts. Toodles fans her vigorously.) Miss Green. Goocl news never kills. (Miss Green proceeds as Miss Langley sits up.) Pos- sibly you girls have wondered why I am here. Miss Langley has supposed me a boarding school inspector. Now, I am going to tell you the pur- pose of my stay. Years ago James Simpson and I went to school together in the little red school- house in Fairville. (Magnolia starts.) Later on I moved to Mexico, where I grew up. What was my surprise to meet there a man whom I dis- covered was the same Jim Simpson that I knew in the red schoolhouse days. He was rapidly \ THE CHARITY PUPIL. 41 acquiring a large fortune, and upon learning of his wife's death, and Magnolia's whereabouts, he wished, out of gratitude to you, Miss Langley, to endow the school. Magnolia (starting forward). Oh, Miss Green ! My father ! Miss Green. Yes, my dear! (Draws Magnolia to her.) He sent me here in the guise of a board- ing school inspector, in order that I might malce my inquiries to the best advantage. That was my mission here. You see the result. This letter in substance is the same as the telegram. Kitty. And I can have my Commencement after all. Miss Langley (rising and coming forward). Yes, Kitty, you shall have your Commencement, and I my old home, thanks to Mr. Simpson and Miss Green and this dear child (drawing Mag- nolia to her). (Bell rings; exit Hetty.) ]\Iiss Langley ("turning to Miss Green). I can simplv say, "I thank you." (Enter'Hetty.) Hetty. Here's a specially delivered letter for .you, ma'am ! (Miss Langley reads letter silently.) Bernice. Hasn't this been an eventful Com- mencement Day? Ethel. I fully confess to being won over to your side, Bernice (turning to Magnolia). For- give me, Magnolia, for all I have said. Let's be friends (holding out her hand). Magnolia. Gladly ! 42 THE CHARITY PUPIL. ]\Iiss Langlcy (rising). It is a letter from Mr. Simpson inviting, me with Magnolia and Miss Green, to visit him this summer in Mexico. Bernice (stepping over to Magnolia). You see, girls, appearances are deceitful. She whom we were pleased to call "the charity pupil" has saved Johnson Hall. Now let's give three rousing cheers for Johnson Hall! (Girls cheer.) Curtain. — BY — EFFIE LOUISE KOOGLE. Author of "In Music-Land," "Kris Kringle Jingles," "The Colonial Song Koveltiea," etc. The songs of this composer are always more thau singable ; they combine a quaint freshness, and a novel appropriateness that is unusual. These new songs will be wel- comed because of their real merit and use- fulness. J\ Winter Eullaby* Surely a provoker of pleasant dreams. Beautiful lullabies are always popular, and this one will prove unusually so because of the happy combination of sensible words, appropriatefor any singer, the soulful mu- sical setting, the effective expression, the dainty and fitting piano part, andthesooth- aaiuiy ana niiiug jjianu ^jm i, <»"" i—av. ^^ ing fascinating melody. For adult singer, medium voice ^ to e). ""^ —" *" 85 cents. Ernie CftanKsgt^lng WcrKeri, An action song for one or more little girls. Describes the preparation lor the an- nual feast-day most effectively. A. pleaMng melody which little singers will relish. Not difficult. Especially appropriate for Thanksgiving, but can be adapted to any other day. 25 cents. CbanKfui Bobby. A solo for a small boy. A delightful thanksgiving number. Expressive words, a tuneful melody with range suited to a small boy's voice, and an appropriate ac- companiment. Bobby gives good reasons for being thankful — from a boy's view- point. 25 cents. MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers, 208, 210, 212 Wright Ave., Lebanon, Ohio. SEP 12 1912 J-IBRARY OF CONGRESS f LARGE Hpm for your SC*i^^i®!J22 2 # A Big Flag AT A Little Price Size 5x8 feet Price, only $1.69, Postpaid DoQrrtnHnn ^^^^ ^^ ^ strong grade of X>'t;o«^/ LfJLlUil, Cotton Bunting, strictly fast Government colors, machine sewed. These flags are protected from fraying or ripping at the end by turn- ing in a double thickness, stitched with four rows of stitching. Canvas headings and grommets. All flags have full number of stars sewed on both sides. They are high grade, durable and perfect The Biggest Flag Bargain Offered. How to get one T**^^ of these big flags X^ leC Your scholars will gladly contribute five cents each for the flag. Or, divide the schoo iinto "teams," and have a contest to sec which team can raise the most money for the flag. Or, send us thirty centsf ort hree dozen very finel ittle silk flags. These your scholars can sel Ifor five cents each, proceeds to go towards the purchase of a flag. Or, give an entertainment and with the proceeds buy a flag and a library. The people want you to have a flag, and they will help. Don't Delay--Do If Now! MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers 208, 210, 212 Wright Avenue, LEBANON, OHIO