"Tz WILLIS STEELL THE PROSPECTOR A COMEDY IN THREE ACTS Walter H. Baker 6 Co„ Boston THE AMAZONS ^^^^^ ^^ Three Acts. Seren males, five females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, not difficult. Plays a full evening. THE CABINET MINISTER farcem Four Acts. Ten males nine females. Costumes, modern society ; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. DANDY DIGIT -^^^^^ ^ Three Acts. Seven males, four females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, two interiors. Plays two hours and a half. THF fiAY LORD OIIEX ^^^^^^y^^^^^-^^ts. Four males, ten ILL/ L( x ^ females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, two interiors and an exterior. Plays a full evening. HK HniTQP IW ni>DFD Comedy in Four Acts. Nine males, four fll3 nUU3U in VI{Um females. Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. THF HORRT HORSF Co^^^y ^^ Three Acts. Ten males, five females. Costumes, modern; scenery easy. Plays two hours and a half. IRIS I^^^ama in Five Acts. Seven males, seven females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening, I ADY ROIINTIFIII ^^^^ ^^ Four Acts. Eight males, seven fe- Lt un VI4 jQales. Costumes, modem ; scenery, four in- teriors, not easy. Plays a full evening. I PTTV ^^^™* ^^ Four Acts and an Epilogue. Ten males, five fe- ^ males. Costumes, modern ; scenery complicated. Plays a full evening. Sent prepaid on receipt of price by Salter ^. l$afeet: & Company Ifo. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts THE PROSPECTOR THE PROSPECTOR A Comedy in Three Acts By WILLIS STEELL Author of ''The Firm of Cunningham,'' ''A Bride from Home,'' ''The Morning After the Play," "Brother Dave," "Faro Nell," etc. All rights reserved. Performance forbidden and right of representation reserved. Application for the right to produce this play must be made to the author, who may be addressed at Islip, Long Island, N. Y. BOSTON WALTER H. BAKER & CO. 1912 THE PROSPECTOR Copyright, 191 2, by Willis Steell As Author and Proprietor A/l rights reserved PLEASE READ CAREFULLY The acting rights of this play are reserved by the author. Performance is strictly forbidden unless his express consent or that of his agent has first been obtained, and attention is called to the penalties provided by law for any infringement of his rights, as follows : — "Sec. 4966: — Any person publicly performing or representing any dramatic or musical composition for which copyright has been obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of said dramatic or musical composi- tion, or his heirs and assigns, shall be liable for damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such sum, not less than one hundred dollars for the first and fifty dollars for every subsequent performance, as to the court shall appear to be just. If the unlawful performance and rep- resentation be wilful and for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period not exceeding one year." — U. S. Revised Statutes, Title bo. Chap. 3. The right to perform this play professionally may be obtained by addressing the author, at Is Up, Long Island, N. Y. Ama- teurs may produce it on payrr*ent of a royalty of ten dollars for each performance, also payable to him in advance. All corre- spondence in regard to stage-right should be addressed to him. gClD 28776 THE PROSPECTOR CHARACTERS Tom Preston, the prospector. Walter Shede {^pronounced Sha-dy), Robert Emmett McGowan. Charlton, of the Charlton Construction Co* Dr. Manning. Mr. Jenks, an agent, Felicia Kelso. Kate Carew, The Prospector ACT I SCENE.— Office of the Universal Provident and Pro- gressive Company, a small dingy room with two windows at back overlooking a court; a door L. from the hall, and a door r., opposite, marked ' * Private Office, ' ' Near this door is a wash-stand and a letter copying press. Left of this door stands a flat'topped desk littered with papers. On a deal table between the windows are sample tins of coffee, beans, rubber, etc. ; also piles of circulars arranged in order. Maps showing Central Amer- ica. South America, Texas, are on the walls and big calendars with dates marked in red splashes. It is about nine A. m. _ x^ \At the rise the office boy, Robert Emmett McGowAN, is seen dusting the two old leather chairs and the straight-back wooden chair which constitute the furniture. He rum- mages on the desk and finds a box which contains one cigar. He is about to take it when his heart fails him and he puts it back. At the sound of a footstep he goes quickly away from the desk, but when it is followed by a knock, he grins, sits at the desk and calls gruffly. 7 8 THE PROSPECTOR Robert. Come in. \Enter Kate Carew. Kate. {^Consulting a slip of newspaper.'] Is this the office of the U. P. & P. Co. ? It is. Robert. Kate. I am looking for the president, Mr. Preston. Robert. Yes,— Mr. Preston. Kate. Well? Robert. Kate. {Doubtfully,'] Are you Mr. Preston? Robert. Um — did you come for the typewriter's job ? Kate. {Looks at her slip.] Typewriter and stenographer the advertisement calls for. I can take stenographic notes, but I haven't had much practice. THE PROSPECTOR 9 Robert. That's bad ; you see we need an expert. Kate. But I can take dictation on the machine quite rapidly — really ! If you will give me a letter to try Robert. What experience have you had ? Kate. Experience ? I'm sorry to say Robert. Who did you work for last ? Kate. I've never had a position. I've never looked for one before. Robert. Um — um — I'm afraid we can't take any one to raise. Our business is so important and so various in its ramfinications Kate. Ramfinications ? Robert. \^Goes to her.'\ That's what I said. I did, too. Say, would you want much time for lunch ? Kate. {Puzzled, 1 I don't think I should. 10 THE PROSPECTOR Robert. You wouldn't give a man away, would you, if he happened to stay out over his time ? Kate. Of course I wouldn't. Robert. You don't look like a squealer. If I was the boss Kate. \Interrupting.'\ I didn't really think you were Robert. {^Interrupting,'] Fd give you the job sure. It's six dollars a week. Kate. Only that ! Robert. Why, I — I began at three dollars and see where I've got to. Want to see ? Kate. Of course I do. Robert. [^Nears to pile of circulars and points out names on it to herj] Sussex and Essex Potato Crop Co. — ** Among the directors of this enterprising organiza- tion we number several eminent agriculturists, among others Mr. Robert Emmett McGowan." That's me I THE PROSPECTOR II Kate. Think of that ! Robert. Too bad you're a girl or he'd put your name up too — mebbe he will anyhow. What is your name? Kate. Miss Carew — but I don't know a thing about potatoes. Robert. Neither do I. \He listens, '\ There he comes now — that's him, Kate. Mr. Preston? [Robert nods^ gets duster and begins to dust desks. Enter Tom Preston, followed by a man who has the air of a collector, Tom. I remember you perfectly, Mr. Jenks. Come in, sir, come in. I understand that you are interested in the Germantown Oriental Rug Company — let me give you a circular. \^ffe chooses one from the pile on the deal table and hands it to Mr. Jenks.] You will find by reading this circular, Mr. Jenks, that we are manu- facturing in this country a rug that in durability, beauty of design and coloring rivals the carpets in the palace of the Shah himself Why should this great people go to the Orient for its floor coverings ? Why should it pay fabulous sums for the crooked mats, the rejected seconds of the looms of a heathen country 12 THE PROSPECTOR when Germantown But you will find this ex- pressed far better in the circular. The shares of the company are held at a ridiculously low price, fifty cents, — a block of one hundred can be subscribed for now and will be delivered upon receipt of one dollar — the remainder to be paid for in easy terms. I've handled the stock of a good many companies, Mr. Jenks, but I tell you candidly I have never felt so con- fident about the success of any enterprise as I feel about the Germantown Oriental Rug Company. Its success is miraculous, marvelous — inside of a year the company will declare a dividend — I am conservative when I put the figure at twelve per cent. [Mr. Jenks has kept backing toward the door, ''^o^i following him. At the door Mr. Jenks thrusts a paper into Tom's hand,'] What the ? Oh, yes, the rent; I had forgotten in the press of business, of course. I'll mail you a check to-day, Mr. Jenks, as soon as I've looked through my correspondence. You needn't bother to call. [Mr. Jenks backs out ; exit.] Good-morning, good-morning. [He turns,] Hulloa, Bobbie ! On the job? Robert. Yes, sir. Good-morning, sir. Tom. [Goes to his d£sk,] Anybody in? Robert. \_Designating Kate.] Miss Carew, sir. Tom. \^Turns,] Miss Carew ? [He takes off his hat and bows,] I beg your pardon. THE PROSPECTOR 1 3 Kate. Is this Mr. Preston ? Tom. Yes ; did you wish to see me ? Kate. {^Nervously, '\ I came Robert. \Impatiently,'\ It's about the ad for a typewriter. Tom. [^Incredulously, ] Oh — you Robert. AVell, that's what you came for, ain't it ? Kate. I really would like to have it if you haven't engaged anybody else. Tom. [Stammers,^ I haven't — and if I had, and if you Kate. I can take dictation quite fast, really, on the machine Tom. You wouldn't have to take mine so very fast. Won't you sit down, Miss Carew? Please do, and let's talk this over. [Kate sits.'] You're sure it isn't a joke? 14 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. I don't understand you Tom. Somebody hasn't sent you for a lark? You're serious ? Kate. I'm serious about wanting the position if I am able to fill it. Tom. That part of it's all right, you needn't worry about that. If you want a place in my office you can have it ; that goes. Kate. It's awfully good of you — I never imagined it was so easy to get a position before Tom. I guess you never tried before. Kate. No, I never did. Tom. Well, that's the answer. Kate. Cy^Jt/^^d'-] Then I'm engaged ! Tom. I wish you were — I mean, you are, to me. THE PROSPECTOR 1 5 Kate. But you'll give me a dictation to see what I can do ? Tom. Not a bit necessary. Kate. Oh, but it is — I expected it, and I*ve been prac- ticing night and day. Where shall I sit, in this room or in the private office ? Tom. Not in the private office ; right here. [Robert bursts out laughing.'] What's the matter? Run outside if you are going to have a fit. I ought to tell you, Miss Carew, that this is at present a young and strug- gling concern. I don't want you to get your hopes too high. Kate. About the compensation, do you mean ? Tom. [Embarrassed,] Would — would twenty-five dollars a week seem adequate ? Kate. [Astonished, ] Adequate ? Tom. lAnxiously,] I mean for a starter. Robert. [Near the door,] Twenty-five dollars ! Whew 1 1 6 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. \AngrilyJ\ Go and throw it in the hall. Robert. Yes, sir. \^He goes out, Tom. I haven't heard your answer. Kate. I know I wouldn't be worth anything hke so much at first. Tom. The salary list is up to me. Kate. I haven't had any business experience. This will be my first place. Tom. I'm glad of that. Kate. How funny ! Tom. Not at all ; you can learn our ways, and not unlearn somebody else's ways. Kate. There is something in that, — like a singing teacher? Tom. Er, — yes. I suppose so. THE PROSPECTOR 1/ Kate. [^Worried,'] Shall I start at once? Tom. \_Eagerly.'\ Oh — will you? Kate. I came prepared to stay if I succeeded in getting the place; shall I take my coat off? Tom, \FoUowi7ig her,'\ Do, and your hat, too. Kate. \Takes them off, touches her hair.'\ There, where shall I put them ? \She looks about for a closet, Tom. Let me have them, please. Kate. But it doesn't seem right. Tom. \Takes them, goes to the private office. '\ It is right, perfectly right. Kate. \_Follows ivith her eyes, but cannot see inside, ^^ In the private office ! [Tom comes back.'] Now what shall I do first ? Tom. I don't know. l8 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. You don't know ! Aren't there any letters? \She goes to machine and looks at //.] It isn't exactly like mine; I'm a little nervous with a new machine. Tom. [Follows her,'] A little nervous, — I'm a whole lot nervous ! [Kate turns,'] Do you know how to put the paper in ? Kate. Oh, are you going to give me a letter at once ? Tom. Not if you don't want me to. Perhaps you'd rather talk. Kate. About the business ? I ought to know what kind it is, oughtn't I? Are you a promoter? Tom. Not a bit like it. Kate. I thought when you were talking to that gentle- man Tom. I'm a prospector. Kate. [Puzzled.] Oh ! THE PROSPECTOR 19 Tom. You thought all prospectors were exiled to the min- ing camps, the gold fields. I thought so once myself and went there when I left Kankakee. Kate. Kankakee ? Tom. My native town. I broke away young and went out West — way out. I learned to grub for likely pockets of the yellow metal, I learned panning, sluic- ing ; oh, yes, I got the motions down fine. By the time I had forgotten what my chin looked like, the idea suddenly occurred to me that I was working at the wrong end and I shouldered my pick and beat it for the gold fields of New York. Kate. Here? Tom. Right here. The ores I've struck haven't averaged very high to the ton, the pockets are hard to discover and harder to open, but I'm prospecting every day and I'll strike it rich yet. You keep your eye on me ! Kate. I will. TOM. [ With a change of toneJ\ You'll put me down for a pilgrim hearing me preach like this, I don't know what started me off. 20 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. I did ; I wanted to hear all about the business. Now I understand it. Tom. [Admiringly,'] Do you ? Then you beat me. Sup- pose you copy this on a sheet, if you care to. [Enter Walter Shede, carrying a dress suit case, Kate. Certainly. [She begins ; he stands near her. Walter. Hulloa, Tom ! — Oh, I beg pardon. Tom. [Turns ; goes to him,] Is that you, Walt ? I mean, Mr. Shede. Walter. Excuse me ; I stopped in on my way to the train. [/;/ a loud whisper.] I say, old man, — a winner ! Tom. On your way? Don't let me keep you. [Kate sits at typewriter and puts paper in ; taps the keys, Walter. You don't mean that she ? [He strikes typewriter keys in pantomime, Tom nods.] Got a job here for me? I'll take anything. THE PROSPECTOR 21 Tom. Nothing doing. Walter. \^Turns to where he ca?i see Kate's face.'\ I never noticed the kind of outlook you had here Tom. [^Barring the way."] 'Tain't a lookout, it's a put out ! Walter. Hog ! And I came here to make a proposition ! Tom. Business ? Walter. I want you to go in with me. Tom. Bucket shop ? None in mine. Walter. Bucket shop gone, — past, — a memory. Tom. Ho? When? Walter. I tried to run a bucket shop on the square ; it ran me out. What you see on me and in this bag, which by the way I want to leave here while I make a call, is my real estate, personal property, total assets. 22 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Cleaned up, eh, like the vacuum process. Tm damned sorry, Walt, old man. Walter. I'm on my way to ask my aunt who owns the street railway system of Philadelphia and who keeps money in her bedroom besides, to set me up in a bank — bankers and brokers, you know. I've got some clients and if you'll go in with me we'll make it go. Tom. [Points to deal table of circulars,'] How can I? — How about these ? Walter. Pink balloons, that fly only when you fill them with hot air. Tom. [ Offended. ] That's what you think. Walter. Wait till we're legitimate bankers and see if you'll lend money on them. Tom. [Grandly.'] Why, my boy, there's more money, easier money in one of these schemes, not one of which promises less than twelve per cent. Walter. Tut— tut. THE PROSPECTOR 23 Tom. Besides, the narrow, humdrum Hfe of a banker with real money to lend doesn't appeal to me. I'm a prospector. Walter. You're an ass. Tom. Oh, come now, don't get brotherly. As I was just telling Miss Carew Damn ! Walter. \yery loudly, '\ It is Miss Carew. I didn't think I could be mistaken, Miss Carew ! Kate. \Rises and turns J\ Mr. Shede, how do you do? Walter. [Advances and offers his hand.'] Awfully good of you not to forget me. But I didn't know you were here. Kate. \^Gaily,'] I haven't been here long. Walter. I didn't even know you were acquainted with Mr. Preston. Tom. Every hour adds to your little store of knowledge. 24 THE PROSPECTOR Walter. Tm glad though, for I believe I can get you to in- fluence him to accept my proposition. Tom. I'm more than ever resolved to decline it. Walter. And Tm bound you shan't more than ever now. Miss Carew will side with me. Kate. What about ? Walter. He's too good a boy to waste his time with these little kites. If I get capital I want him to go in with me in a legitimate business. Kate. Oh, isn't this a legitimate business? Tom. Isn't it? Walter. It is a shade better than green goods. Tom. Or bucket shops. Kate. The combination of cloth and household utensils makes me look for women customers. \E71ter Felicia Kelso, followed by Robert. THE PROSPECTOR 2$ Walter. Here is one. Tom. l^Going to her,'] Miss Kelso. Walter. A regular customer, I guess. \_They talk near Kate^s desk. Felicia. How do you do, Mr. Preston ? Isn't mother here? Tom. No, Miss Kelso. Felicia. She was to try to meet me here. I left her at the Surrogate's ; more doing about papa's will, but it will be settled soon. Then I have something to say to you. TOM. That's nice. Felicia. You don't know how nice it is. Who are these? TOM. Walter Shede, a friend of mine, and Miss Carew. Felicia. Miss Carew, — who's she? 26 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. He knows her; I don't, except in a business way. Felicia. Is she going into one of your companies ? Tom. Good lord, no ! She's going to be here in the office. Felicia. Oh, a clerk. I ought to wait here for mother, but she may be detained ever so long. Your friend is going. Walter. \_Comes to them,'] I'm off to call on a man, Tom. I'll be back for my case. Will it be in your way ? Tom. Miss Kelso, may I present my friend, Mr. Shede ? We're old friends. \_Iie goes to Kate's desk, Walter. [^B owing.'] He's told me a lot about you, Miss KeJso. Felicia. Has he ? He's never mentioned your name. Walter. Oh, Tm of no interest to him. Tom. [Presents Kate.] Miss Carew, Miss Kelso. [Kate bows. THE PROSPECTOR 2/ Felicia. {Condescendingly J\ Oh, how do you do? Walter. I hate to break up this pleasant party, but — business. Good-morning, all. {Exit. Felicia. I've such a lot to say to you, Tom, but I must say it in private. Tom. Well, there's nobody here. Felicia. Hoi \She points to Robert and KLate, who has stepped back to her desk, Tom. Here, Bobbie, you take this suit-case into the private ofifice and remain there till I call you. [Robert makes wry face as he obeys.'] Miss Carew is my confidential secretary. Fire ahead. Felicia. Perhaps it would be better to talk it over to-night. Tom. To-night? Felicia. You hadn't forgotten that you are to dine with us to-night and go to the theatre afterwards ? You asked us last week. 28 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Did I? Why, certainly. What made you think I'd forgotten? Felicia. \^Goes up to deal table. 'I Which one of these com- panies is the most promising ? Tom. They're all promising. I never saw a company yet that wasn't promising. Felicia. {Picking up a circular. '\ Sussex and Essex Potato Crop Company. Faugh ! I won't have anything to do with that. Tom. It's small, but don't scorn it — that company has leased the finest potato belt in the whole world — they are going to grow potatoes, that for size and flavor Felicia. Perhaps — but I'm not interested in potatoes, Tom. You might be in their dividends. Potatoes will certainly declare a dividend of twelve per cent, in this year, and that's no joke. Felicia. How about this Rug Company ? THE PROSPECTOR 29 Tom. Now, there you put your hand on a mine of wealth. This country is going to make its own Oriental rugs, instead of disinfecting them from the East. I'm clos- ing up a block of stock for a gentleman who was in here this morning, a Mr. Jenks ; he believes as I do in the great future of the Germantown Oriental Felicia. Will it pay twelve per cent. ? Tom. Couldn't help it. Felicia. That is the company I shall advise mother to invest in. Tom. What? Felicia. She's got five thousand dollars, or soon will have, lying idle, and I've told her she must go into one of your companies. She is willing, and which one de- pends on you. Tom. Oh! Felicia. [^Looking over list.'] Rugs, potatoes, rubber, coffee, rice, cement, there's a good selection. She'll go with any one you advise. 30 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. {^Protesting.'] But I don't advise her to go into any of them — I never did. Felicia. What? Don't you want her? Tom. No. Felicia. What do you mean ? Don't you want mother to make a good investment ? How queer ! Tom. It isn't that; my companies are good, gilt-edged when it comes to that, but I don't hke to sell stock to a friend, and a woman, too ! Felicia. \_Off ended. 1 If they are all that you claim, it's very selfish to want to keep her out. Tom. But don't you understand ? There's an element of risk. Felicia. You said any of them would pay twelve per cent. The very highest mother gets for any of her money is four per cent. I think you're real mean. Tom. I'm sorry, but that is my principle ; I never do business with a friend. THE PROSPECTOR 31 Felicia. Mother's quite determined and so am I. What is five thousand dollars ? Tom. What is it? Just at this minute I don't know what it is. Felicia. To her, I mean. Tom. I don't suppose she'd want to lose it. Felicia. There ! I've heard you say a hundred times that people who invest in one of your companies never go wrong ! Tom. They don't, that is, not often, — but, — it's differ- ent ■ [Robert falls gasping in from door of private office. Kate. \Runs to him,'\ Oh, what is it ? What is it ? Robert. [ Weakly, '\ Air ! Air ! Give me air. Tom. [Runs to wash'Stand.'\ Give him water. 32 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. What has happened ? Why did you faint, you poor boy ? Are you better ? Tom. Here, drink this. \_He holds a glass to Robert's lips. Shuts door of private office. Turns to Felicia.] Miss Kelso, I'm afraid Felicia. How distressing ! Is he subject to such fits ? You should get rid of him. Tom. Go on down-stairs and fill your lungs with air. He'll be all right in a minute. [Robert exits from room."] Recollect I said air, not cigarette smoke. Robert. \_Goitig.'] Yes, sir. \_Exit. Tom. To-day isn't the time and this office isn't the place to discuss these business affairs. Felicia. It's a business office, isn't it? Tom. Yes, but I can't stand excitement. My heart's weak. Five thousand dollars ! Felicia* You can't keep mother out of your companies; your opposition will only make her more determined. THE PROSPECTOR 33 Robert. [^Reenters quickly,'] The gentlemen, Mr. Preston, about the Montezuma Rubber Commission. Tom. ril have to see them. Will you excuse me, Miss Kelso? Felicia. I am going. I may come back later with mother. Tom. Don't. I can't take your mother's money. That's flat. Felicia. We'll discuss that to-night. Were you able to get good seats at the Empire ? Tom. The Empire? Oh, yes. Well, fair. Felicia. [^JVear the door,] Mother is quite excited about it. Tom. So am I. Felicia. She has not been inside a theatre since father died, a year ago. We will dine promptly at seven. Good- bye. [She turns.] I hate to go. \She lays her hand on his arm,] Your confidential secretary is rather pretty. 34 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Is she pretty ? Felicia. Oh, if you haven't noticed it. Good-bye again. Dinner at seven, then the theatre. \_Exit, Tom. \Watches her off."] Good-bye. Theatre tickets! How did I happen to let myself in for that ? \_IIe woefully takes some change out of his pocket and counts ity shaking his head,'] I say, Bobbie ? [Robert comes up to him.] Huh ! I'm in a hole — mebbe you can help me out. Will you ? Robert. [^Efithusiastically.] You bet, if I can. Anything. Tom. Do you happen to have your last week's salary on you ? Robert. [Sadly.] No, sir. Tom. You haven't spent it all ! That's extravagance. Robert. No, sir, I haven't spent it. Tom. Sure you haven't got it? [Robert nods,] What makes you so sure ? THE PROSPECTOR 35 Robert. 'Cause you ain't paid me for last week yet, sir. Tom. Then I am in a hole — a tight little hole. Robert. I'll get you out of it, sir. I've got a scheme. Tom. \^Goes down toward Kate, as Robert goes oiit,'\ Keep your scheme if you haven't got the cash. Kate. \Looks up.] Have you a minute to look over this now, Mr. Preston ? Tom. \_GaiVy.'\ Always got time for you, Miss Carew. Kate. But those Montezuma gentlemen ? Tom. [Reading the letter.] The Montezumas ? Bobbie invented them. Kate. {Shocked.] Oh ! Is the letter correct, sir ? Tom. Fine. Couldn't be finer. A few little words like "not" and *^can" left out, that's all. 36 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. Nonsense. I'll put them in in ink. {Reenter Robert. Robert. He's coming round again. Tom. Who? Robert. Mr. Jenks, the agent, don't you know Tom. When I told him I'd mail the check ! What nerve ! Where are you going with that suit-case, Bobbie ? Robert. \Makes gestures to Tom, who follows him to the back, Robert speaks in a loud whisper, '\ I'll meet him on the stairs with this and say that you've been sent for to go to Washington by the President. Fm taking this to the station for you. See ? Tom. \_Laughingy pats Robert on the back.'] Switch him on a side line. [Tom pushes Robert out and goes back to Kate.] How do you like it so far, Miss Carew ? Kate. {^Distressed,"] I don't know how to tell you, Mr. Preston, but I'm afraid I don't like it. THE PROSPECTOR 37 Tom. {Worriedr)^ Tm sorry. Is it me you don't like ? Kate. Oh, no, no. I like you, but — it is so presumptuous in me to form any judgment at all, but Tom. It's the business — is it? [Kate /^^^i*.] I tzw doing it on a shoe-string, that's a fact. Kate. I feel that I cannot be of use to you in these \She hesitates. Tom. In these schemes. You needn't be afraid to use the word. Some of 'em are way back in the shade, but I want you to believe that I'm fairly honest. Kate. Fairly? There aren't degrees in honesty. Tom. Aren't there? Honesty is like eggs; there's the strictly fresh, they come high, and the twelve for a quarter kind. Kate. Your honesty isn't the latter, I feel sure. Tom. Perhaps it wasn't when I quit Kankakee, but in New York if a man gets away with the goods he's honest. 38 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. \Distressed.'\ Oh, no, I won't believe you're like that. If you were you could have taken Miss Kelso's money without hesitation. Tom. It's different with strangers, isn't it? Nobody forces them and they pay for their look in. Kate. \_Doubtfully,'\ I suppose they do. Tom. \More confidently. \ They accept the risk. The cards don't always come up the right way even when they're stacked. Kate. Good players don't stack the cards, do they? Tom. No-o. But I ain^t playing with children. The men I'm up against have a card or two up their sleeves most of the time. Kate. It's all horrid and I wish you weren't in it. Tom. \Persiiasively.'\ So do I. But don't quit me, will you? Kate. Why, I've scarcely begun. You don't care? THE PROSPECTOR 39 Tom. Yes, I do care. Please stay ; sit down again. Kate. I will, to prove that I don't think as you imagine I do, — of you. Tom. We're going to be life-sized bankers, you know, if Shede gets hold of the coin. \Re'enter Walter. Walter. Count on me ; my aunt in Philadelphia keeps money in her bedroom ! Tom. Back again, Walt ? Walter. I've a few minutes before my train, and I want to talk to you Hke a Dutch uncle. Tom. Fire ahead. Kate. \Rises and goes to ^^ privaie^^ door.'\ You'll want the room to yourselves. \She throws door open and reveals a closet.'] Oh ! \_She bursts out laughing and closes door.] Mr. Preston. Tom. \_Comes to her.] Yes? Kate. [^Opens door wide, laughing.^ The private office. 40 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. \^Crestf alien, '\ You find me out all round, Kate. Forgive me. If everything was as harmless as that, though you did nearly asphyxiate Bobbie, — Mr. Mc- Gowan. Now, I'm going to leave you to yourselves. How much time do I have for lunch ? \_She puts on coat and hat ; Tom helps her. Tom. Take all the time you want. Take an hour. \He opens hall door for her, Walter watches, Kate. Twenty minutes will do. [Kate off. Walter. Do you know who she is ? Tom. You do. Walter. The daughter of Arthur Carew, once a famous architect. He's gone down, I don't know why. For a year he was a regular customer of my bucket shop. Tom. That accounts for her coming here. Walter. I'm afraid so. He would get on the wrong side of the market. THE PROSPECTOR 41 Tom. Does she know her father is gambling ? Walter. I bet she does. Tom. I don't. Say, Walt, she's a Walter. {Goes over to wash-stand. '\ A jim dandy. Tom. Shut up. I was going to say an angel. If our banking scheme goes through I tell you she's to be my stenographer ! {Enter Robert. He doesnU see Walter. Robert. Here you are, Mr. Preston. Three tickets for the Empire theatre — and \He hands tickets and a pawn ticket to Tom. Tom. Good boy ! Where did you make the raise? Walter. I*ve got to be off if I make my train. Where's my suit-case ? Tom. Get Mr. Shede his suit-case, Bobbie. 42 THE PROSPECTOR Robert. \Points to ticket in Tom's hand.'] YouVe got it there ! Tom. Where ? A pawn ticket ? You hocked it ? Walter. [Catches him.] You little devil ! Robert. [Protesting,] Mr. Preston had to have the money, and I thought Tom. That boy won't be an office boy very long. He's a bird. Walter. A jail bird ! TOM. Here, Bobbie, you take this ticket, and Walt, go with him and redeem it. Walter. I'll have to, but I call this a den of thieves. Tom. If you ever do a thing like this again, Bobbie, I'll pay your wages and discharge you ! Walter. If I thought that you two had arranged this flim- flam between you THE PROSPECTOR 43 Tom. Hurry up, Walt; you'll miss your train. [^Exeunt Robert and Walter.] I'll have to take that kid in hand ; he's too smart ; 1 wonder if my example, — no ? \^He walks down and looks at Kate's typewriter,'] We'll turn a new leaf to-day, Bobbie and me. If there's anything in a fellow he'll try when he gets a chance, — to reach the level of an honest man. And to-day I believe I got my chance ! curtain ACT II SCENE. — The reception hall at the house of John Carew, two weeks later. It is stately y with tapes- tried walls ; at back are two arches, one leading out to the house door, the other y r., shows the stair leading to second story. Left is a large hall table y covered with planSy blue prints y etc. Over it an architectural drawing framed, A telephone on this table. Right is a grate and below thisy r., a door leading into the dining-room. The furniture y which is scanty is of carved oak. The time of day is noon, \_As the curtain rises y the hall door-bell is heard a?id a Maid enters from r., crosses to hally opens door and takes letters from invisible postman. She comes back into the rooniy pauses at foot of stairway y listens y shakes her heady then goes out and puts letters on the tray on hall table. Stands a minute examining themy then as the door at the head of stairs opens y she crosses quickly and exits by door r. Enter Kate, on stairway. She descends y goes to hall table and picks up letters. Kate. \Smiling,'\ From my employer! \She opens and reads. '\ ^' Of course we miss you dreadfully. I trust your father will soon recover for his sake and all our sakes. The business is suffering — but don't let that 44 THE PROSPECTOR 45 worry you. If I can do anything down-town for you or your father be sure you give me the chance." \Looks up,'\ Isn't Mr. Preston a dear ? I hope he will succeed — I'm sure he will — he has a head — yes, and he has a heart too ! \She looks at another letter. 1^ The Charlton Construction Company ! I suppose I ought to open this. [She does so and reads aloud."] ** Mr. Carew: Sir: — Why don't you answer our letters ? The money due on the job has got to be paid and no two words about it. I'll thank you for our check. The Charlton Construction Company." I wrote them myself that father was sick ! [She goes to pick up ^ phone, looks at letter. ~\ i6i Cortlandt. [She calls this number and speaks in the ^ phone."] Charlton Construction Company? Is Mr. Charlton there ? Will you tell him that Miss Carew called up to say that his letter has been received and her father is too ill to attend to it ? What is that ? Mr. Charlton does not believe that Mr. Carew is ill ! Why — why — how dare he think such a thing? If he wishes he may call up Dr. Manning — my father's physician, Dr. Hugh Manning, to confirm it. No, Mr. Carew cannot come to the 'phone. Don't you understand, he is seriously ill ! [ While she has been 'phoning, the hall bell has rung and the Maid has admitted Tom. He stands near the archway holding his hat, while Kate concludes the 'phone conversation. The Maid goes out R. Kate turns.] Oh, Mr. Preston ! Tom. I wish I had him here. Kate. Who? 46 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. What's the matter with that fellow on the other end? Kate. It is about a payment on the Amherst building, for which my father is the architect. This is a firm of sub-contractors. They want their money. Tom. How much is it ? Kate. A little less than five thousand dollars. They have written repeatedly. Their last letter just came. I can't show the letter to my father, — I don't know what to do. Tom. Stand pat. Kate. You mean ? Tom. Don't do anything. When you haven't got the money, stand pat. Kate. They think the money has been paid in to my father ; even if it has I am powerless. Tom. Stand pat, I tell you. THE PROSPECTOR 47 Kate. They doubt me when I tell them father is ill. Tom. Doubt you ! Suppose I go to see them ? Kate. I couldn't let you do that. Tom. Did you get my letter ? Kate. I have just read it. Thank you so much, Mr. Preston, for saying that you will keep my — position open for me. Tom. Keep it open — I'd keep it open for a year if I had to. Take your time, take all the time you need, only I hope your father will soon be better. Kate. He's not so well to-day. The doctor is with him now — I'm afraid — he's worried. Tom. Doctors are always worried. That's normal. Dr. Manning. \^Opens door on stairs and calls, '\ Miss Carew. Kate. \_Goes quickly to stairs,'] Yes, Doctor — at once. 48 THE PROSPECTOR Dr. Manning. [Coming down.'] The nurse is with your father. I'll come down. \_He comes downy holding a small bottle in his hand which he conceals as he sees Tom.] Pardon me. I thought you were alone. Kate. Mr. Preston, Dr. Manning. Is there any change ? Is father still in a stupor ? Oh, Doctor — you alarm me. Dr. Manning. Don't be alarmed. I wanted to ask you a ques- tion — but I can wait. Tom. I'll get out. Kate. No. Tell me at once, Doctor. What is it ? Dr. Manning. {Produces bottle.'] It's this Kate. That bottle? Dr. Manning. I haven't seen your father for a year. I don't know whether he has formed the habit of taking this as a sedative. Kate. \_Takes the bottle.] Yes. He has taken this several times THE PROSPECTOR 49 Dr. Manning. Regularly — do you know ? Kate. Not regularly, I think, but often. Oh, what is it ? Dr. Manning. Uni-m — it's probably not serious. If he's been ac- customed to this no harm has been done. The nurse just found this bottle and I couldn't tell. Kate. \Pa5sing him.'] I must go to my father at once. Dr. Manning. Don't go up just now. You have reassured me. Mr. Carew will sleep this off as he has probably done before Kate. \_Turns,'] Oh, are you positive? Dr. Manning. I think so. To be on the safe side, I'll have some strong cojffee made. Kate. [Starts to dining-room.] I'll make it at once. Ex- cuse me, Mr. Preston ? [Tom bows. Kate exits. Dr. Manning. Are you a friend of Carew's? so THE PROSPECTOR Tom Never saw him to my knowledge. Dr. Manning. Ohl Tom. But I'm a friend of Miss Carew's. Is there any- thing I can do? I'll do anything. Dr. Manning. His daughter tells me he has been laboring under a double disadvantage for a couple of years ; bad health, bad business. That has worried him, naturally ; and I presume, without Miss Carew's knowledge, he has had recourse to chloral. If he has he'll wake up all right, but if he hasn't and took an overdose — the minute he wakes up he's got to drink strong coffee — quarts of it, and I'll have to walk him up and down the room. Can you help me ? Tom. All day, if you like. When will you know ? Dr. Manning. He'll rouse himself soon now. All I can do is to watch, but the presence of another man here is help- ful. We'll come round. Tom. If you think that tell her so. Tell her even if you don't think so. THE PROSPECTOR 5 1 Kate. \Re'enters.'\ Jennie is making the coffee as strong as possible. Do you want it now, Doctor ? Dr. Manning. I wouldn't wake your father. Tm going up to watch him. The coffee may not be needed. Kate. Doctor, you are not keeping something back ? My father is not in danger ? Tom. Dr. Manning just reassured me. Kate. Tell me the truth. Dr. Manning. My dear child, don't I tell you ? There's no cause for alarm. Kate. But you won't leave him ? Dr. Manning. \^0n the stairs."] I'll stay till he wakes up. [^Looks back.] By the way, I have asked your friend to stop. He will explain. \^Exit, up the stairs. Kate. How very strange ! Tom. What's strange? 52 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. The doctor, who doesn't know you, wants you to stay till my father wakes up. Oh, he's keeping some- thing from me ! \Siarts to go to stairs, Tom takes her arm gently. Tom. I say. Don't you see why the doctor asked me to stay? Kate. No. Tom. I bribed him. Kate. You bribed— Dr. Manning ! Tom. Yes. I said if he'd fix it so I could have a chat with you, I'd give him my trade. Kate. Oh! Tom. I want a chat with you. Kate. On business ? Tom. Well — partly. THE PROSPECTOR 53 Kate. \SmUingJ\ How is business? Tom. [^Cheerfully.'] Never better. You'll notice some great changes when you get back. Shede is in the firm. — We're bankers and brokers now — Axminster carpets — roll top desks — fine offices Kate. Private office ? Tom. The president's. That's me. You'll sit there with me. Kate. Excuse me. Tom. You won't I Kate. It isn't quite big enough for two. Tom. Oh, that— closet ! That's cut out. You won't know the place. I've come across at last. Kate. I'm so glad. Tom. Good. 54 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. For selfish reasons, Tm your stenographer. Tom. Did you think I'd forgotten that? But I always wanted to ask you — what gave you the idea of getting a job down-town ? Kate. That's such a long story. Tom. I like long stories when you tell them. Kate. For two years — yes, longer, I have had a feeling of insecurity — I knew dad was doing badly — everything went wrong with him, and I thought — why should I be a drain on him? We always lived very quietly — I had no particular society — so l determined to make a little income of my own — even if it wasn't much. Tom. We'll have to boost that salary of yours. Kate. You misunderstand me. I mean I had a much less sum in my mind. Besides, Robert Emmett told me you'd never pay it long. Tom. He did, eh ? I'll discharge that young Irishman when I get down-town. THE PROSPECTOR 55 Kate. Please don't say a word to him, for my sake. Tom. Well, then, I won't, for your sake. You know, Miss Carew, 1 \He pauses. Kate. Yes? Tom. I'd do a whole lot for your sake. Kate. You have been very kind. Tom. I wanted to get in right, and \^pause\ I can be a pretty good friend if I try. Kate. I feel sure of it. Tom. If you ever need one, you give me a chance to prove it. You see — you've made a big hit with me. Kate. Havel? Tom. Tremendous. I don't know whether it's reciprocal or not, but that doesn't make any difference. 56 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. Oh, but it does make a difference, and if I know what you mean, I can say that you've made a hit with me, too Tom. Miss Carew, when I said I'd come across, I didn't mean to boast — but you take it from me, I'll get my bite of New York yet. Kate. Yes, I feel sure you will succeed. Tom. I came here from Kankakee pretty hungry — and New York didn't start by inviting me to banquets ; but the town's waking up a little now. Before long I'll have a house — well, like this, and maybe it will be a home for me. Kate. I hope so. Tom. I wouldn't stay in it a minute alone. I wouldn't dare. Kate. You wouldn't? Tom. I'm too nervous — I'd hear things — on the stairs, you know, or in the walls, — mice or rats. Kate. Is it as bad as that ? THE PROSPECTOR $7 Tom. This — this is a tough bit I'm up against. I could dictate it all right. You haven't got a machine here, have you ? Kate. No, I haven't. Tom. Let's pretend you have, and that I'm dictating. See? I'll recapitulate. There was the hit; you re- member that? Kate. Oh, yes. Tom. And the fact that I'm going to set my teeth in New York at last. Kate. You cannibal ! Tom. Then my home, the house I couldn't stay in alone, you know. Put that down. Kate. Go on. Tom. Go on ? It seems to me all I have left is to add, ''Wishing you every success, I remain yours truly." Got that straight ? 58 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. I never could write that letter. Tom. No ? I could type it out with one finger. What I want to know, Kate, is this [Dr. Manning appears on stairs. Dr. Manning. Is Miss Carew there ? Kate. \_Eagerly,'\ Yes, Doctor, I'm here. Dr. Manning. \_Cofnes part way down.'] Will you bring the coffee now, please? Kate. Yes, yes. Is my father awake ? May I go to him ? Dr. Manning. Only the coffee, if you don't mind. Kate. \^Going,'\ Instantly, Doctor. Oh, — I'm so relieved ! [She goes out. Dr. Manning. [Comes to foot of stairs.] Mr. I forget your name. Tom. Never mind, — forget it. What can I do to help ? THE PROSPECTOR 59 Dr. Manning. She mustn't come up for a while. Keep her down here. Do you understand ? Tom. Is her father — very bad ? Dr. Manning. I don't know. Tm trying an experiment. There is a change in his breathing Tom. Get ! I hear her. Dr. Manning. Don't let her come up Tom. Not if I have to hold her ! [Reenter Kate; carries tray with coffee-pot, cupy etc, Kate. Here, Doctor, is the coffee. May I take it to my father ? Dr. Manning. No, my dear. Wait here. Kate. But I can't. I must come up. Dr. Manning. \Takes tray."] Not yet. You'll obey me — you're a brave girl. 60 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. Hasn't father asked for me ? Dr. Manning. I will call the minute I need you. \He goes up and off. Kate What did he say to you ? Tom. Eh? Kate. Is my father in danger ? Tom. Wouldn't he tell you before he'd tell me? Kate. But what did he say ? Tom. Asked me about the market. Kate. Really? Tom. Wanted to know if there was anything good laying around loose in the street. Kate. {^Immensely relieved.'] Oh, then there can be noth- ing serious. I was afraid \Pause ; she listens,'] What was that ? Did you hear it ? THE PROSPECTOR 6l Tom. Sounded like a cat. Have you got a cat ? Kate. No. Tom. I didn't know but you had one. I've never been here before — it's all strange to me ; perhaps I seem to you like a stranger. Kate. Oh, no. Tom. If I thought I did I would put on my hat and light out. Kate. Please don't. Tom. Do you want me to stay ? Kate. You cheer me up. Please stay. Tom. This may not be the time and the place to resume my dictation, but if you will be so good as to take it down Kate. {Absent-mindedly J\ Take what down ? 62 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Where are your notes? Kate. I don^t know what you are talking about. Begin at the beginning, please. Tom. \Injured.'\ When I had got as far as Kate ! Kate. Yes — you had got as far as **Kate.'' I didn't notice it then, but by the way, how did you get as far as ^^Kate"? Tom. That's so ; how did 1 ? Kate. Well? Tom. Yes — I — I — was just going to tell you Kate. Is it the custom in business offices to call the stenog- rapher by her first name ? Tom. They will do it sometimes — in Wall Street. But — don't misunderstand me — not unless it's perfectly agreeable to the stenographer. Kate. And if it isn't then they call her — as, for instance, — Miss Carew ! THE PROSPECTOR 63 Tom. Certainly, Miss Carew. Kate. That's better in business, don't you think? Tom. Yes, of course, in business, — but this isn't busi- ness. Kate. Isn't it ? Tom. It's a blame sight harder than any business I ever undertook, and I've been up against some pretty tough propositions. I say, Miss Carew. Kate. Yes, Mr. Preston ? Tom. You're surely coming back to the office as soon as your father's condition warrants it ? Kate. I shall be so glad to come back ! Tom. Then — I guess I'll dictate the letter after you get back {^Hall bell rings, 2 There's somebody any- how ! Kate. IJVervously,'] Oh, I wish it didn't ring so loud ! 64 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Shall I go, Miss Carew ? Kate. Will you please before they ring again ? [Tom gots to hall door ^ off. Maid opens door down r."] Mr. Preston has opened the door, Jennie. [Maid goes out r. Voice raised angrily off r. Charlton. Tve heard that guff before. [Tom's voice heard ex- postulating,'] Let's see you keep me out ! [^Enter Charltoi^ of the Charlton Construction Company, He keeps his hat on, Tom. He beat me out, Miss Carew, before I could use the strangle hold. Charlton. You're Miss Carew, are ye? Where's your father? Kate. Are you Mr. Charlton ? Charlton. IC/gly.'] That's me. Where's your father — the architeck ? Kate. I called up your office, but you had gone, to tell you Mr. Carew is very ill. Charlton. I've heard that before, too. THE PROSPECTOR 6$ Tom. Keep still. Charlton. Eh ! What the devil ! Tom. Keep still. Miss Carevv, will you permit me to conduct this interview ? Kate. Will you, Mr. Preston ? And explain to this gentle- man — I will go up to my father. \_She starts toward stairs, Tom interposes. Tom. I beg your pardon. Kate. What is it, Mr. Preston ? Tom. I wish you wouldn't go up now Kate. [^A/armed.'] What do you mean? Tom. You ought to be within call, you know. I may need you to explain something to me. Will you please wait in there ? \_Foints to dining-room, Kate. Perhaps you are right — but 66 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Please wait in there. \He takes her to dining-room door R. ; shows her in. Shuts door and turns r^ Now before I begin with you, Charlton Charlton. Who are you, anyways, and what are you buttin' in for ? Are you a arch-i-teck ? Tom. \_Coming to him.'] Before I begin with you — isn't there something you've forgotten ? Charlton. [Turning square around.] What ? Tom. [Knocks off his hat,] That. Charlton. Say — young fellow ! Tom. That was a lady you saw, who just left the room. Charlton. I guess you're right. I forgot. I ain't no pig — but damn it [raises voice], a man has got some rights ! Tom. Ssh ! Say what you came to say, but don't raise your voice. I won't have it. Charlton. Like hell you won't ! THE PROSPECTOR 6/ Tom. \Faces him squarely.'] No, Charlton, I won't. Do you understand ? Charlton. I guess I do. Tom. That's right. There's a sick man up-stairs — a man so dangerously ill his physician dare not leave his side for a minute, and out there is his daughter who doesn't know how sick he is. Say what you have to, then, as quietly as you know how, without disturbing either of them. Charlton. [Lowering his voice.'] If I knew who I was sayin' it to. 'Tain't a pretty story for anybody but a mem- ber of the family. Tom. 1 am 2i member of the family. Charlton. That's all right then. There's a crew of men down the street that's after me for their money, and Carew's got it. I come up here to make him or somebody give up. Are you the feller ? Tom. You're on the Amherst job, I believe. Charlton. For two weeks Carew has been puttin' me off and puttin' me off. It's the owner's final payment, and on last Saturday Carew swore to me he hadn't got his check — he lied ! [^He raises his voice slightly. 68 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Keep it down. Charlton. [Getting excited.^ I know he lied — Fve seen the owner. Carew had his check on the fifteenth ; to- day's the twenty-ninth. The men are hounding me, and by God, sick or no sick, I've got to have my bit. Tom. You41 get it — don't worry. Charlton. l^Louder.'] Soft words don't go, young feller — soft words is what Carew the arch-i-teck has been feeding me on for two weeks. ** I'll be around in a couple of days, Charlton," says he. Mush ! My stomach craves solid food — it wants hard cash ! The men wants their bit — I want mine. Tom. How much is it ? Charlton. He's got the figgers, an' I've got the figgers — there they are. \_Pro duces a pamphlet of figures In typed manuscript.'] The job's been passed on. There's Carew's fist to the bill — a little less'n five thousand plunks. Now, I want to see it on a certified check Tom. Is it due ? THE PROSPECTOR 69 Charlton. Due — it's overdue — fourteen days overdue — I tell you! Oh, you can't get no time off me. I know your tricks — I know Carew's. I've had men on him, — he's been down in Wall Street — in the bucket shops — and they've done him ! I've found it all out lately ; if I'd known it before I wouldn't a-took a job off him — no, by God, I wouldn't. Tom. You can't talk like that here — no ! Charlton. \Loudly,'\ I'll say it everywhere — I'll tell the people of this town that he's a gambler — Carew is a swindler — a damned — ugh — r [Tom clutches him by the throat, Tom. Didn't I warn you? Kate. [ Opening door of dining-room,'] What is it ? Oh, Mr. Preston, is there any trouble ? Tom. {Releases Charlton at the sound of her voice and pats him on the shoulder. ~\ Why, no, Miss Carew ! Mr. Charlton and I are beginning to understand each other nicely. Won't you please leave us to finish our little conversation ? Kate. Certainly ; but I thought I heard ^0 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Not at all. A few minutes longer, Miss Carew. [Kate goes into dining-room and closes door.'] You understand me ! Give me those figures. Here's my card. I'm Mr. Preston, — president of that concern. You stand by and listen. It will cheer you up. [Tom ca//s up his office over the ' phone. "] iii John, please. Is Mr. Shede in? Connect me, please. Is that you, Walter ? Have a check drawn up to the order of the Charlton Construction Company — amount \reads from paper~\ four thousand, nine hundred and eighty-seven dollars and seventy-five cents. Have it certified. Charlton will call! What's that? Draw it anyway. What's that? Gee whiz — I forgot all about them. I say, Walter, fix it up for me. Tell Mrs. Kelso and Miss Felicia that I was called to Mr. Carew who is seriously ill. Nothing less could make me forget my engagement to take them to luncheon. All right, put her on. Miss Kelso, I'm awfully dis- tressed, — will you forgive me? I'm at Mr. Carew's — he is very ill — very — sent for me. Do you under- stand? Oh, I say, Felicia, has your mother planted that five thousand dollars yet ? She asked me to in- vest it for her. Now, I've got the very thing. I meant to explain it to her at lunch. No-o — it's a building operation — got to work quick. Have your mother make out her check now and leave it there for me. I'll see her about the details. Oh — twelve per cent, at the very least ! Sure thing ! Thank you. Good-bye ! [Tom puts up * phone and gives sigh of relief."] Who says the Lord doesn't take care of his own! [^Turns to Charlton.] Now, Charlton, we'll soon fix up your business ; call there \_points to card THE PROSPECTOR 7 1 in Charlton's hand^ at three o'clock, and you'll get a certified check for your bit ! Charlton. \Feeling of his tie which Tom ruffled.'] If I do, I'll stand the price of a necktie. I'm indebted to you, Mr. Preston, and I hope you ain't going to think the worse of me, but the job's been passed on, and there's the men Tom. All right, Charlton — but your business here is finished, isn't it ? Charlton. I wish you'd tell that young lady what made me forget my manners. You see I wouldn't like her to think I always act like a pig. I've got a gal of my own — turned eighteen, — oh, she ain't up to Miss Carew's style — you can bet she's the real thing. Tom. I'll tell her. Charlton. You're going to marry her, I guess ? Tom. The boy guessed right. Charlton. Say, you're in luck ; she's a fine young lady, and if you'll believe me, I hope her father, the arch-i-teck, will soon be up again and about 72 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Thank you, Charlton; you*d better go now, hadn't you ? Charlton. As soon as you give me that con track — Fm only waitin' for that. Tom. \_Who looks at the pamphlet. 'I So this is the con- tract as well as estimate. Let's have a look at the payment clause. Charlton. \^Confused.'\ Never mind that now — you've made everything O. K. Tom. \Running over the dates. '\ Why, you — you've been up to a little sharp practice, Mr. Charlton. This gives Mr. Carew till the thirtieth to make the final payment. To-day's the twenty-ninth. Charlton. He never waited so long before. Besides what's twenty-four hours? Pshaw ! Tom. I've known the day when twenty-four hours was a lifetime. But I'd like to tell you that a man who will make a row at another man's sick bed for money that isn't due is, in my opinion, a kind of skunk. Charlton. I don't give a damn for your opinion. THE PROSPECTOR 73 Tom. I don't suppose you do. Well, take your contract and clear out. \_Re turns pamphlet.. Dr. Manning moves down the stairs, speaks in a low and tremulous voice. Dr. Manning. Where's Miss Carew? Tom. What's the matter ? Her father ? Dr. Manning. Worse than I feared — he never woke up. He took the whole bottle — he's gone. Tom. Dead! Dr. Manning. Dead. Charlton. [^Loudly,'] Killed himself, did he? Tom. Who says so ? Charlton. I say so. Didn't I hear the doctor? Tom. [Concentrated,'] I've told you where your money Is ; go and get it. 74 THE PROSPECTOR Charlton. \LoudlyJ\ Maybe it's there — maybe it ain't; how do I know ? How do I know but you're a bluff like old Carew? Ain't I on? He's robbed me, ruined me — and now he's killed himself to get out of it — the damned defaulter ! Dr. Manning. Ssh ! Miss Carew ! [Kate enters, Kate. I heard this man call my father What does he mean ? Tom. Nothing, nothing. [/« a harsh whisper. "^ If I get my hands on your throat you'll never speak again ! Charlton. \Backing toward hall door.'\ Well — by Tom. [/« the same tone,'] Don't talk Clear out ! IJjTe stands ^vatching Charlton off. The hall door slams. Kate. What was it he called my father ? Tom. He's got his money ! Kate. Oh! THE PROSPECTOR 75 Tom. On my honor. And that saves your father's. Kate. \^Clasping her handsel Oh, thank God ! \She crosses to Dr. Manning.] May I go to father now ? Dr. Manning. You tell her. Tom. \Turns half away ; mutters.'] Not on your life ! Kate. Mr. Preston ! Doctor ! What is it ? Doctor ! Dr. Manning. [Sadly.] We did what we could. Kate. yin a whisper,] My father is gone ! [Dr. Man- ning bows solemnly, Kate covers her face.] Oh \She goes to Tom.] Was it what he owed that man that killed him ? Tom. No, no — your father has paid that and everything ! It's death — my little girl-— death, but nothing worse than death ! [Kate staggers and Tom catches her in his arms and holds her up. CURTAIN ACT III SCENE. — T:^^ president's office of the U, P. 6- P. Banking Co,, a month later. It is the same room seen in Act /, but now elaborately fitted up. A Turkish rug, a glass-topped mahogany desk dow?i L. j near it a small desk for the private stenog- rapher. There are handsome pictures on the wall, desk telephones on both desks. The door ^narked ^^ private'' is the same as in Act I. At opening of act it is closed. Time, ten a. m. [Robert enters from private door and crosses to desk, carrying a basket of letters which he puts on the president' s desk. He looks over the desk, opens the drawer, finds a cigar box, takes one, smells approvingly and puts it carefully in a cigar case which he takes from his pocket. He is overdressed in what is his conception of the height of fashion, a very high collar, diminutive tie, patefit leather shoes, etc. He goes to the stenographer' s desk, touches keys 07i the typewriter reflectingly and sighs deeply. He is thinking of Kate. Walter's voice heard from other room. Walter. Mr. Preston ! Mr. Preston ! [Robert sits down quickly at desk and appears to be absorbed. Enter Walter.] Hasn't the president come in yet, Bobbie ? 76 THE PROSPECTOR 77 Robert. No, sir. He ain't due for ten minutes yet. Walter. Let me know as soon as he comes in, there's a good boy. Robert. Yes, sir. [^He stops Walter, who is going back to the outer office. '\ Mr. Shede ! [Walter turns, \ I beg your pardon, sir, but I Walter. No advances till the first of the year. Robert. Yes, sir. But I aiJi the oldest clerk in the office, ain't I? I mean, I was here before the others came. Walter. I believe you were. Robert. How about calling me Mr. McGowan ? Bobbie's such a kid name ! Walter. I'm agreeable, Mr. McGowan, and I'll try to remember. Robert. If you please, sir. And, Mr. Shede ? Walter. Well? 78 THE PROSPECTOR Robert. If you'd just speak a word to the others about it Walter. You don't mean that the other clerks call you Bobbie ? Robert. Ain't they got a nerve? Walter. Force of bad example — they don't mean any disre- spect. Robert. {Adjusting his collar. '\ I dunno about that ! Walter. Is that all? Mr. McGowan ? Robert. Yes, sir. Walter. Then give my message to Mr. Preston as soon as he comes in. Robert. Sure. I mean certainly. [Walter laughs and goes out, Robert touches a button. An elderly clerk enter S.I Huh, is that you, Perkins? You'll do as well as the cashier. Mr. Shede wishes me to say to the clerks in the office that they was to quit calling me Bobbie. I'm the longest here and the bosses think it's THE PROSPECTOR 79 a bad example. Mr. McGowan from to-day, Per- kins. Understand ? \The cUrk bows, Robert walks solemnly to the president' s desk, picks up a paper ^ seems to be absorbed in it. Glances at clerk, who stands near door.~\ I forgot you, Perkins. You needn't wait. Mr. McGowan, See? \^Clerk bows and exits. "] Those guys will quit having fun with me. \_There is a tap at the door l. from the hall."] Well, who has got the — gall ? {^Tap repeated; he goes to door and opens it. Enter Felicia.] Miss Kelso ! Felicia. Is Mr. Robert. This is the president's room. Nobody ever comes in here ! Felicia. Is he in? Robert. The president don't get up with the whistles. Can I do anything for you ? Felicia. Perhaps you can. I've heard something that dis- tresses me. It's about Miss Carew, the typewriter person, you know. Robert. What about Miss Carew ? Felicia. Does she come here now ? 8o THE PROSPECTOR Robert. \SadlyJ\ Nope, she don't. Felicia. [Suspiciously.'] Are you quite sure? Robert. Ain't been here since her father died. Felicia. I feel so relieved, for then it's probably not true. Robert. What? Felicia. I've heard that her father's affairs were in a dreadful tangle — that in fact he would have been arrested as an embezzler if he had lived, and that this firm paid the amount over and saved his reputation. It sounds un- likely that New York bankers should do so much for a favorite employee, and if, as you say, she isn't an employee any longer — you do say that, don't you ? Robert. Yes. Felicia. I for one don't believe the rumor. Where would this firm, such young bankers, get the money for an act so ill-advised, so silly ? Has Mr. Preston em- ployed a new typewriter ? Robert. Yes*m. THE PROSPECTOR 8 1 Felicia. Where is she ? Robert. 'Tain't a she, Miss Kelso, it's me. Felicia. Really ! I think that's ever so much better. I don't believe in woman typewriters. Robert. No? Don't you? Felicia. They're always making mistakes. Tell Mr. Preston I stopped in. I was in the neighborhood on business for my mother, and perhaps I'll call him up about, — what time does he take for luncheon ? Robert. He don't scarcely never go out to luncheon nowa- days; he's too busy. We have some sandwiches sent in for him and me. \She goes to door l. Robert /^^/^ze/i* her, Felicia. Then merely tell him I called ; \laughs\ you might say to him that I am at the Surrogate's office ; he can 'phone me there. \_She goes out, Robert. \_Closing the door behind her, '\ Yes'm. Don't be- lieve in woman typewriters, don't she? They're al- ways making mistakes? If Miss Carew turns to be a thousand she'll never make the kind of mistake that one's made. \_Enter Tom. 82 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Hi there, Mr. McGowan. What are you muttering about ? Robert. You've seen Mr. Shede, ain't you? Tom. No, but Perkins told me that the office was to call you Mr. McGowan hereafter. You'll have to live up to the name. Robert. \_Joyfullyr[ I'll do that, trust me I Tom. Didn't I hear a woman's voice in here, didn't I, Mr. McGowan? Robert. Yes, sir; Miss Kelso. Tom. \^Whistles.'\ Oh, Miss Kelso. Miss Kelso, eh? \^He sits down at his desk. He opens his mail,'] Well, what did Miss Kelso want ? Robert. She'd heard some kind of lying yarn about Miss Carew Tom. What? Robert. \_Going toward door,] The typewriting person she called her. THE PROSPECTOR 83 Tom. • Um — the typewriting person ? What was the yarn? Robert. Said that Miss Carew's governor was a defaulter, and that everybody'd know it if you hadn't squared things. Tom. Now how the devil ? Where are you going ? Robert. Mr. Shede wanted to know the minute you came in. Tom. Very well. On your way through ask the cashier to draw a check to my order for five thousand dollars, and a month's interest at six per cent. Get it certi- fied right away and bring it here to me. I'll need a messenger. Robert, Yes, sir. Tom. I'll send you. Robert. [Offended.'] Me! Tom. This is confidential business, Mr. — ah, — McGowan, and I'll have to ask you to go as a favor to me. 84 THE PROSPECTOR Robert. \Goes out.'] Then of course I'll do it. Tom. [ Continues to read his mail and shakes his head. He starts to write a letter, Walter efiters.^ Hulloa, Walt. Whats the good word ? Walter. We're up against it, old man. See this statement ? \^He brings paper to Tom, who looks at it, Tom. What about it ? Walter. There's our bank balance. Tom. You couldn't build a subway with it, could you, Walt ? Any checks in ? Walter. Half a dozen ten dollar checks on some of your old pink balloon shares. Nothing to speak of. Tom. What's going out ? Walter. The securities hypothecated with the Chemical ; we've got to take them up to-day. Tom. That's eleven thousand dollars ; bank balance is four hundred dollars shy. Anything else? THE PROSPECTOR 85 Walter. We have to make good on the Delaware Railway shares — investment shares too. Tom. Um. We'll stave off the Chemical for twenty-four hours. Walter. Can't be done. Tom. Who says so ? I'll see the president, then send our check over for the Delaware shares and raise money on them. Walter. You forget that our check will have to be certified. Tom. Certified. I'm sick of the word. It kills all initiative. How can a man do business when every check he puts out is nailed down with a bank cashier's certificate ? Walter. Cold-blooded, New York. We may manage to skin through, Tom, that is provided you don't do any plunging. Tom. Plunging ? Not me. Walter. Close figuring and no checks out, — that's our pro- gramme to-day. \^Enter Robert. 86 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Sure thing. Count on me. What is it, Bobbie — Mr. McGowan, I mean ? Robert. It's the check for five thousand dollars, sir. Walter. What's that? A check for five thousand dollars when I just told you Tom. Wait a minute, Mr. Shede. \He signs his name to the back of the check. '\ Copy this letter for me, Mr. McGowan. [Robert does so at letter copier ; brings him letter ; Tom puts it in envelope, addresses envel- ope and gives it to Robert.] Here, Bobbie, you put on your hat and get this up to that address right away. Robert. Yes, sir, Tom. Here's a form of receipt to get signed. Bring it right back here. Robert. \^Going!\ Yes, sir. \Exit, r. e. Walter. That cuts our bank balance down to fifty-six hun- dred dollars. Did you have to do it ? Tom. I did it. THE PROSPECTOR 8/ Walter. Couldn't it wait ? Tom. Maybe it could. Walter. What's the meaning of this, Preston? We're on egg-shells, and you know it. Tom. I've got my egg-shell skates on to-day. Walter. Twenty-five thousand dollars in obligations to meet to-day, less than half that in the bank, and you draw a check for five thousand dollars. Tom. I drew it to pay a debt of honor. Walter. Honor ! You make me sick. Tom. What do you mean by that ? Walter. If you owe anybody a debt of honor it's me. That's what I mean. Tom. Ain't I making your fortune? Walter. [Taps the balance sheet, '\ This looks like it. 88 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. Go and take a drink, old man ; you're nervous. Walter. I realize where we're at if you don't. Tom. Spirits of ammonia will soothe your nerves. Walter. To-day will wind us up, and I don't care ; I'm tired of this bluff, this banking on a bob-tail flush. Tom. Have the drug clerk mix it with plain soda. Walter. Oh, you, you ! What have you got to lose? Noth- ing — you can go back to your pink balloons — per- haps one of them will fly one day. But this was my last chance; I can't get any more capital; if this game breaks up, my family is through with me. Oh, I ain't blaming you — you've done things, but you can't work miracles. Only money does that these days. Tom. All through ? Walter. I guess there isn't any more to say. Tom. I guess there is, and I'll say it. This business is not going under to-day or ever. We're here to stay. THE PROSPECTOR 89 The day will come when these New York banks will take our check at nine in the morning without rushing round to certify it at ten. You admit I've done some things. Yes, sir, I have, and I'll do more. I've got my nails in the cracks and I'm climbing up; I ain't going to slip back, not one inch. So brace up, Walt, old man ; take a deep breath and dig your nails in tight ! Walter. \HopefuUy.'\ What's your scheme? Tom. I don't know yet, but don't forget I'm a prospector. I didn't loosen up much gold out there in the West, but I got the swing of the pick, and when I came to New York I brought the old pick along. We need about twenty thousand dollars to pull us through to- day. Well, give me my pick and I'll go out and break up twice that joy dirt. Walter. But how — how? There's not a bank will take our paper. Tom. You don't know these New York bankers. They'll tie up their capital in any man's note without security, if he goes at 'em good and hard. Trouble with us we don't want enough. What's twenty thousand dol- lars? I'll make it fifty for a rainy day and get it twice as quick. Watch me ! Walter. I wish I had your nerve. 90 THE PROSPECTOR Tom. There's your mistake; 'tisn't nerve, it's the instinct of self-preservation and some gratitude. You gave me my chance, Walt, old man, — you set me on our little wagon, the U. P. & P., and gave me the reins to hold. I ain't just holding the reins, I'm driving ! \^He starts toward private door. Walter. Do you think you can get the cash ? Tom. Get it? When it's lying round in a thousand safes not half a block from here ! 1 don't think, I know I'll get it. Where's my pick? yrhe two men go out by private door, Sound of key being turned in the hall door. Enter Robert, showing in Kate, in mourning, Robert. Another minute and I'd 'a' missed you. [Kate looks round, Kate. I wouldn't know the place. Robert. Scrumptious, ain't it ? Like it ? Kate. I don't know. I'm homesick. Robert. Tell you the truth, I don't like it as much as the old days either. Of course I get my pay more regu- lar, but I ain't a director in anything any more. THE PROSPECTOR 91 Kate. \^Goes to new desk.'\ This is where my machine used to be. Robert. What do you think of that for a desk ? Kate. {Examines the Chippendale affairJ\ It's quite ele- gant. I don't see how anybody could work at it. I couldn't. Does the new stenographer sit here? Robert. There ain't none. Kate. No? Robert. He wouldn't have another one. Guess he's kinder hopin' you'll come back. I pick out all his letters with one finger. Kate. Oh, poor Mr. Preston ! Robert. You are coming back, ain't you, Miss Carew? Kate. I don't know, Bobbie. I think not. Robert. Come on ! Kate. Are you tired of one finger exercise ? 92 THE PROSPECTOR Robert. Tain' t that Kate. \Taking off her haf.] I almost wish I were com- ing back; I think it would make me feel better to have some work to do. Isn't there something I could copy for Mr. Preston while I'm here? Robert. [A/ presidenf s desk.\ He ain't opened his mail yet, so I don't know exactly what he would answer first. Kate. Are there no inquiries about the Rug Company, or the Potato Company, or Robert. Huh — most of them are smashed. Anyways, we don't bother about them. We was pikers then. We're bankers now. Kate. Yes, we mustn't forget that we're bankers now. Robert. \_Shows letter.'] What do you suppose I got in here ? Check for five thousand dollars. Mr. Preston wrote it just as easy as I'd buy a penny paper. Kate. \_Looks at envelope."] How queer it seems that Mr. Preston should THE PROSPECTOR 93 Robert. [^Interrupting.'] Give up the dough? Mr. Shede wouldn't do it; he can't loosen up; but Mr. Preston is built that way. Money ? He don't care no more about it than if it were old shoe laces. Say, will you be here when I get back ? Kate. Oh, I don't think so, Bobbie. Robert. Oh, hang around — I won't be gone long. All I have to do is to deliver this here letter and get a re- ceipt. Say you'll be here. I'll rap on the door and you let me in. [Points to hall door, Kate. [Smiles.'] Perhaps. It all depends. Robert. If it depends on him you won't never get away. That's him now. Good-bye — don't say you saw me. [Robert goes out by hall door. Enter Walter. Walter. Why, it's Miss Carew. Kate. [Rising,] Yes, Mr. Shede. Walter. Have you seen Mr. Preston ? Kate. I am waiting for him. Bobbie let me in. 94 THE PROSPECTOR Walter. I see. Mr. Preston is out — prospecting ! He is likely to be occupied all day. Is there something I can do ? Kate. This isn't a business call. I am in the way, I fear. Walter. Not at all, not at all. Is everything going smoothly ? I mean about your father's affairs. There, I beg your pardon. Kate. \^Who has shown distress.'] Mr. Preston has seen to everything, and relieved me of all worries. He has been so kind. Walter. Trust Tom for that. He's never so busy but he can find time for his friends. Just now naturally he is loaded up to the muzzle — seeing he has to give so much attention to Miss Kelso. Kate. Has he? Why? Walter. I haven't any authority for saying it, but that's a case all right. Kate. Do you mean they are to be married ? THE PROSPECTOR 95 Walter. Tom hasn't taken me into his confidence, but Fve seen them together. That's enough. It will be a good thing for Preston ; she's pretty well fixed. Kate. If Mr. Preston is so busy perhaps I had better not wait. Walter. Sit down again. Don't run away. Tom would like to see you. Do you feel like coming back in your old position ? Kate. [Putting on her coat."] The purpose of my call was to tell Mr. Preston I have given up that plan. I am going to live with my aunt. Walter. I see. Um — well — V\\ tell him for you. Kate. Thank you ; I will write to him. I ought to write to congratulate him. Walter. I wouldn't do that. It's only a shrewd guess of mine, but I hope it will come off for Tom's sake — he needs the money. [ Telephone on desk rings, Walter picks it up and listens, '\ I'll be out at once. \He sets it down and turns to Kate.] Pardon me for running away, Miss Carew. It's a client. You can let your- self out by that door. {Points to hall door. 96 THE PROSPECTOR Kate. I am going at once. Good-morning, Mr. Shede. [Walter bows and exits by private door, Walter. Good-morning. [Kate starts to put on her hat. There is a rap on the hall door. She puts hat on Tom's desk J goes to hall door and opens it. Enter Felicia. Felicia. You here 1 Kate. [Surprised.'] Oh, it's Miss Kelso. Felicia. I expected to find Mr. Preston. They told me • Kate. I think Mr. Preston is not in. Felicia. They told me you were not employed here now. Kate. I am not. Felicia. Too bad, for I suppose you find it necessary to do something. I have heard that your father left his affairs very much involved. Kate. You have been misinformed. THE PROSPECTOR 97 Felicia. Mr. Preston sent for you, of course. He is very tender hearted. Kate. He is kind. Felicia. He did send for you, didn't he? Kate. No. Felicia. Oh ! In that case. Miss Carew, I think you made a mistake in coming back. The loss of your father has left you quite alone in the world and an unpro- tected girl can't be too careful. Kate. What do you mean ? Felicia. You know very well. At any rate it is hardly deli- cate in you to come back here. Kate. You're talking in riddles, and I'll have to ask again what you mean. Felicia. Why, I have heard that your father had misappro- priated funds in some business or other to pay his gambling debts. Kate. Oh I 98 THE PROSPECTOR Felicia. And that Mr. Preston came to his rescue, paid the money and protected his reputation. I have been in- formed that the latter is not true, but there's the rumor — and in consequence your name is sure to be coupled with Mr. Preston's in a way you wouldn't like. Kate. I do not know why you say these things to me — about my father. They are utterly false. Felicia. I'm sure I hope so. Kate. Your tone shows that you do not hope it. But I don't care. We are strangers and likely always to be. Besides my father left too many good friends who know him well and respected him for his integrity — his unimpeached honor ! Felicia. \Laugh5.'\ It's too ridiculous to apply such words to an embezzler ! Kate. I will not stay and listen to you. Felicia. You'd better ! Such things may be covered up, but they are known. Your father had used money belonging to a firm of constructors who were just on the point of bringing action against him, when for- THE PROSPECTOR 99 tunately for himself he died. The facts remain just that black, although somehow the five thousand dollars was found and the scandal hushed up. Kate. \Staggers.\ Five thousand dollars! Felicia. Yes. Kate. [^Glancing toward typewriter.'] Five thousand dol- lars. Felicia. The amount is so large that Mr. Preston couldn't afford to provide it. [She sees Kate's/(3:^ shifty- Leonore Crowninshield. Dignified and averse minded to mosquitos. J maidens. SYNOPSIS. Act I. — Lodge's Room at College. Courtship in theory. How it works. Up to Lodge. Act II. — The Old Arbor in the College Yard. Courtship in practice. How it won't work. Up to Freddie. Costumes modern. BY WOMAN'S WIT. A Sketch in One c/lct* By A. LOUIS ELLISTON* Two male, one female characters. Scene, an interior ; costumes, modern. A neat lesson in the art of circumventing a cruel parent, brightly written and very up-to-date. Alderman Street, a political orator, is the leading comedy character. Plays half an hour. PRICE J5 CENTS. SELECTED SKETCHES Suited for Parlor, Platform and Vaudeville, for two and three characters^ PRICE, J5 CENTS EACH* Apples. 1 male, 2 females. By Woman's Wit. 2 males, 1 fe- male. Courtship with Variations. 1 male, 1 female. Dead Reckoning. 2 males, 1 female. Difference in Clocks. 1 male, 1 female. Fair Encounter. 2 females. Fast Friends. 2 females. Fire-Flies. 1 male, 1 female. He and She. 1 male, 1 female. His Liucky Day. 2 males, 1 female. Heather. 1 male, 1 female. Half W^ay to Arcady. 1 male, 1 female. Insurance Agent. 1 male, 2 females. L.arge Order. 1 male, 2 females. Liclia. 1 male, 1 female. Mabel's Holiday. 2 males, 1 fe- male. Marie's Secret. 2 females. Mary Moo. 2 males, 1 female. Nelly's Rival. 3 females. No Men Wanted. 3 females. fe- Old Cronies. 2 males. Pair of liunatics. 1 male, 1 male. Petticoat Perfidy. 3 females. Picked-up Dinner. 1 male, 2 fe- males. Picking up the Pieces. 1 male, 1 female. Serenade. 2 females. Soup Tureen. 1 male, 2 females. Teacher Taught. 1 male, 1 female. Two Flats and a Sharp. 1 male, 2 females. Two Gentlemen in a Fix. 2 males. Unexpected L.egacy. 1 male, 2 fe- males. Unprotected Female. 2 males, 1 female. Unlucky Star. 2 males. Very Pleasant Evening. 3 males. Who Are You ? 2 males, 1 female. Which Will Have Him. 1 male, 2 females. Wooing a Widow. 1 male, 2 fe- males. Introducing Music and Trancing* Story of a Famous Wedding. Colonial period. 6 males, 4 females. In Aunt Chloe's Cabin. Southern sketch. 17 females. Quilting Party in the Thirties. " Old Folks " sketch. 6 males, 4 females. In Office Hours. Occasional. 5 males, 4 females. Sent, postpaid, on receipt of price, by BAZEE, 5 HAMILTON PLACE, BOSTON, MASa FEB 20 1912 PLAYS FOR MALE CHARACTEEiS. A LITTLE TIFK A Farce in One Act By NEWELL BENT. Four male, two female characters, all intended to be played by men, as in the original performance at the Fay School. Costumes, modern; scenery, an easy interior. A bright and entertaining little piece, well suited for school performance. Edith Burton, a young Avoman with ideas, wants to strike out and do something, and to this end, against the advice of her fiance, Teddy, opens an intelligence office in her drawing room. Teddy, to bring about her cure, sends two of his farm hands to act as bogus applicants, instructing them to get up a "rough house," which he, arriving at the proper time, wiil quell, thus at once curing the lady and making himself very solid as her rescuer. Dusty Rhodes, a tramp, arrives on the scene and complicates this programme somewhat, but everything turns out all right. Extravagantly funny, and a sure "go." Plays half an hour. PRICE J5 CENTS- PLAYS FOR FEMALE CHARACTERS* SIX KLEPTOMANIACS. A Farce in Two Ads for Female Characters only* By EVELYN WHITING CARD. Ten female characters. Scene, an easy interior, the same for both acts. Costumes, modern and eccentric. A large number of properties are called for by this piece, but all are common domestic articles, easily provided. A clever satire on the institution known as " the rummage sale," introducing an unusu- ally large variety of character. Mrs. Reynolds advertises for " kleptomaniacs," in order to carry out a scheme she has formed, and finds to her horror that advertising undeniably pays. A brisk, easily actable piece, full of side-splitting situations. A great success in its original performance in WoUaston. Plays rather more than an hour. PRICE 15 CENTS. THE CLANCEY KIDS. A Comedy in Trvo Acts for Female Characters only^ By THACHER ROWLAND GUILD. Fourteen female characters, and " supers," if desired. Costumes, modern, both pretty and eccentric. Scenery, the same for both acts, represents two adjoining gardens, but is not difficult. This very original, amusing and sympa- thetic piece strongly suggests *' Mrs. Wiggs, of the Cabbage Patch," in the quality of its humor and the honesty and sweetness of its pervading spirit, and is strongly recommended for school performance, for which purpose it was originally written and produced. It attains a high pitch of humorous effect wltnout the least loss of tone or concession to vulgarity. Plays about an hour, PRICE J5 CENTS. Dne copy del. to Cat. Div. FEB 21 19t2 I THF MAfilSTRATF -^^^^^ ^^ Three Acts. Twelve males, four 1U£ iTliiULJlAAll^ females. Costumes, modern; scenery, all interior. Plays two hours and a half. THE NOTORIODS MRS. EBBSMITH ^/^"^ *" J°7 ^f « Eight males, five females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, all interiors. Plays a full evening. THF PROFI Hi ATF ^^^^ ^ Four Acts. Seven males, five females . ^ Scenery, three interiors, rather elaborate ; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. THE SCHOOLMISTRESS FarceinThreeActs.Ninemale8,8even females. Costumes, modern; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. TBE SECOND MRS. TANQDERAY ^C/rL^s.Ts! tumes, modern ; scenery, three interiors. Plays a full evening. SWFFT I AVFNDFR Com'edy in Three Acts. Seven males, four ^ females. Scene, a single interior ; costumes, modem. Plays a full evening. THF TIMFS ^^^®<^y ^^ Four Acts. Six males, seven females. Scene, a single interior ; costumes, modern. Plays a full evening. THF WFAKFR SFX C^^^^^^^y ^^ Three Acts. Eight males, eight females. Costumes, modern ; scenery, two interiors. Plays a full evening. A WIFE WITBODT A SMIIE 'J^lnr .ZrJZ..Z: modem ; scene, a single interior. Plays a full evening. Sent prepaid on receipt of price by Walttv ^. QBafeer & Company No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 018 378 270 8 Cfje IS^illimi Wwctn CtJition Incite, 15 €entjef <6ac|| AQ Vnn I IITP IT Comedy in Five Acts. TWrteen males, foui AD IVU LflALi It females. Costumes, picturesque ; scenery, va- ried. Plays a full evening. r AjUlf f p Drama in Five Acts. Nine males, five females. ' Gos- vAiulUI^Ii tumes, modern ; scenery, varied. Plays a full evening. IVItAMAP ^^y ^ ^^^^ Acts. Thirteen males, three females. lilUvlUiiA Scenery varied ; costumes, Greek. Plays a full evening. MAW ^TIIADT Tragedy in Five Acts. Thirteen males, four fe- HiiilVI ^lUAAI males, and supernumeraries. Costumes, of the period ; scenery, varied and elaborate. Plays a full evening. THE MERCHANT OF VENICE S.«?^^«^?^I; Sir. picturesque ; scenery varied. Plays a full evening. WirHFI IFH ^^*y ^ ^^^® '^^*^' ^fteen males, two females. Scen- l\lvllLMl4l' ery elaborate ; costumes of the period. Plays a full evening. THF RIVAI S Comedy in Five Acts. Nine males, five females. 1 lli^ ni T AI41J Scenery varied ; costumes of the period. Plays a full evening. SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER SS^asSi^leen^'^r. ried ; costximes of the period. Plays a full evening, TWELFTH NIGHT; OR, WHAT YOU WILL iTs^^e^^aa^;,* three females. Costumes, picturesque ; scenery, varied. Plays a full evening. Sent prepaid on receipt of price by Walttv 1^. ^afeer & Company No. 5 Hamilton Place, Boston, Massachusetts