PS 635 .29 M296 Copy 1 •^i^AlTHFUL^i FRIENDS,! PS b^5 SensoLttoTLoZ JDrajnci, IN FOUR ACTS. 3-; &>T\V,K00K, hat in hand.) If yo' please, mossa. ESTA. Well, what is it, Jeff? Come, be quick about it, I've no time to waste. Jefp. If yo' please sah, me and my ol' woman down at de cabin, heer'd you was gwine to sell some of de hands, and de oberseer done sed dat our little Manda was gwine to be sold and gwine down de riber. EsTA. Yes. Jeff, that's true Is that all.? Jeff. All, mossa, yes sah, dat's all. All my ol' woman's pleas- ure in life. Dat chile is all de one we got, and I done come to ask yo' mossa, please not take her away from us. She's only six years old, mossa,; she can't do much and won't bring a heap, but if yo' send her away it'll mighty nigh break ol' woman's heart and mine. ESTA. You must not bother me with such talk. The niggers must be sold and she among them. She's young and in a few weeks you'll not miss her. Jeff. Not miss her, mossa; den mossa, we'd never miss de sun if it was to be forever behind de clouds; we'd never miss de singin' of dem birds in de magnolia, nor de flowers in de woods and fields. ESTA. Enough of such sentiment. It's useless - the child must go. My losses have been severe of late and I cannot afford to have this crowd of young niggers about, eating me out of house and home. Jeff. But, oh, please mossa, spare our Manda to us. Think if some one took good Missy Florence from you! ESTA. You black scoundrel, how dare ycu compare your child "to mine — your little black brat to the heiress of this estate. Jeff. 'Scuse me mossa for sa}'in' sumfin wrong, but we lubs our Manda de same as yo' lub good Missy Florence. Our skins are black but we got feelins, mossa; our hearts may not be black, mossa. ESTA. You have said too much. Go back to your cabin; the child must be sold and this very day. If I had had a desire lo let her stay, you have spoiled your chance by your sentimental whining. Be off" I say. Jeff. But mossa, jus' think — ESTA. No, I say, and if I hear you grumbling and whining among the other niggers, you'll not only lose your brat, but you'll get fifty lashes besides on your bare hide. Now go; I will hear no more whining from you. Jeff. Yes, mossa. 'Scuse me for beggin' for my chile, {turn- ing aside.) May de good Lord in Heaben neber cause him sich mis- ery as dis is to me. {Exit, R. 2 E. ESTA. That nigger wants a good whipping. The idea of his 6 FAITHFUL FRIENDS. daring to compare his love for his brat with mine for Florence, my heart's idol — my only child and daughter. It's nearly time for her to be at homp. Rastus! Where is that damned nigger? Rastus! RaSTUS. {Comes from house eating a piece of pie. ^ Golly, dis good pie, bes' I'be had dis whole year. Did yo' call me Massa Esta- brook.'* ESTA. Did I call.'' Yes, I yelled. Don't you know enough to be within call.'' Where were you and what were you doing out to the barn.'' Rastus. Jus' doin' nuffin'. ESTA. Just doing nothing as usual, eh.^ Rastus. {Aside.) I don't know nuffiin' — I'se foolish. ESTA. What time did Miss Florence go for her ride.^ Rastus. 'Bout an hour ago, massa, and golly, how she did go down de lane on dat new horse you bought her- and ef you'd see'd de way dat ar dog Frank keep right at dat horse's heels, and neber min' nobody callin' him, you'd a dest laff'd. I'se done laff'd myse'f all day. {Aside.) I ain't got no sense, I'se foolish. ESTA. When she returns tell her I expect a number of people here to-day, as I am going to auction off some of the negroes. Tell her to see that everything necessary for their entertainment is ready. I am going down to the quarters to look over the surplus— you un- derstand.? {Exit, L. 2 E. Rastus. Yes sah, massa, cose I un'stand. {Aside.) lie tinks caze I'se no sense, I kaint hear. Golly, but massa is riled dis morn- ing. He's gwine have sumbody here 'n when dey come den is de time dis'yer chile sneaks inter de house 'n fills hisse'f full of cakes and pies and all sich trimmins. Golly, den I'll sleep and sleep, and when massa calls I'se gwine say. "Rastus doan heah yo' He's done takin' good slumber. Fast asleep I is." {Lies down stage centre., snoring.) Short, {heard ont side.) Ah, this is the way. All right sir- much obliged — see you again, {rushes in R. 3 E; stumbles over RAS- TUS, who rises to hands and knees.) Ah, what's this; a brilliant spe- cimen of the overworked negro of fiction. Arise Senegambian, I would fain communicate with thee. Ah, I see what you are going to ask, who am I.'' "Who is you.?" Exactly, I'll tell you my name. A. Short, a northern gentleman cruizing in Southern society; auc- tioneer by profession, but with a soul that yearns for greater things. Ah yes, it yearns, it yearns, it yearns. Rastus. Look heah, massa man, ef you's gwine to hab de col- ic cramps, yo' bettah go right straight in de house to ol' missus 'n git sumfin. Short. You mistake emotion for cramps; very natural. FAITHFUL FRIENDS. RasTUS. Don't know nuffin 'bout no 'motion. I ain't got no sense, I'sc foolish. Short. Sable philosopher, let me grasp your digit. I have seen hundreds of men in j'our exact mental condition, but you are the first to come out like a man and acknowledge the corn. But tell me, is this the house of Mr. Hiram Estabrook.'* Rastus. You done guess dat de fust time. Dis am de place ob Mistah Hi'um Estabrook. jess sho as yer bo'n, dat's what it is. Short. And you, I take it, are one of his niggers.'' Rastus. No sah, nobody nigger but de debil. I'se black stain- ed gemman, I is, dat's me. Short. Where is your master.' Rastus. He's done gone down to de quarters. He's 'spectin' sumbody and he tole me fo' to tell Miss Florence — well, I 'clar to goodness ef I ain't fo'got dat what massa tole me for to tell Miss Florence — what was dat..'' Short. Florence — who is she, his sister.-' Rastus. Go on, mistah. Sistah nuffin— she's his only da'teh, and massa and missus tink dar is but one person on de top ob dis'yer ground, and dat's Miss Florence. She mighty gay; yo' h'ar me, she is. Short. This grows interesting; what is she like, Sambo.-* Rastus. Doan go make maulk my name. I ain't no Samo — I'se Rastus, I is, what's foolish. Short. All right Sambo, I'll call you Rastus. What is this young lady like.'' Rastus. I couldn't tol' you sah. She's like honey and possum, sweet 'taters and fire-crackers all togeder I 'spec — I'se talkin'; yo' h'ar me.-* Short. And where is she now.' Rastus. She's habin' her mo'nin' ride. De sun neber git bery hicrh To dat lady is on her hoss and her dog at de boss's heels, flyin' f'om one place t'oder like de win' — no ruff wind, kase she allers good. Short. Well, I will see this prodigy. Tell Mr. Estabrook that the gentleman whom he sent for to sell off his extra slaves awaits him. Fly Sambo. Rastus. All right sah, Rastus is flyin' Don't know no Sambo; Sambo soun'sifies like lazy, but Rastus— Rastus is jess breakin' his back a flyin'. {Exit very slowly into house during this speech.) Short, {looking after him.) Rastus, your wings are not mates; he is slow, just like the country. It's in the air. This job promises to be interesting. Old man in difficulties, probably, as he wants to sell off some of his slaves — pretty daughter; spoiled child without a doubt, with lovers by the score. This ought to be just in my way. 8 FAITHFUL FRJEXDS. Now if there is only some mystery to clear up, some diabolical plot to thwart — {enter Rastus from steps, just to hear the last zvords.) oh how I would revel in a murder! Rastus. Oh Lord! dat man bad; I'se gwine lebe. [Exit I,. 2 E.. very much frightened.) Short, {turning about quickly.) Why, what's the matter.^ (looks toward steps and sees MRS. ESTABROOK, who has entered — aside.) Ah, the fair creature's mother, no doubt. Mrs. Esta. You will pardon my servant sir; he is a little ec- centric at times. Short. Oh yes, he confided his troubles to me a moment since. {touching his head significantly.) Foolish, perhaps. This is } Mrs. Esta. Mrs. Estabrook. Short. Allow me to introduce myself — A. Short, auctioneer, here at the request of your husband, professionally. Mrs. Esta. An auctioneer here! Why, I have heard nothing of an auction here. Short. Do not speak of an auctioneer in such an appalling- manner. It is my profession through poverty, not inclination. Did I follow the beat ot my own desires, I'd seek the counterfeiter in his lair, and I would wade in lashings of sfurcrlincr eore. Mrs. Esta. I don t understand you. Short You do not grasp my meaning; to bidders I would say, bid me good-bye and go, and I would devote my life to the glorious cause of justice. I would have a secret star in my inside pocket, and I'd detect everything from a brutal murder to a piece of cheese. You don't happen to have a mystery you want unravelled, a mysterious murder you want looked up.'' Mts. Esta. Sir! Short. Just my luck; I'll have to stick to my old business, auc- tioneering; going, going, gone, Mrs. Esta I am sorry we cannot oblige you in your desires, Mr. Short, but here comes Mr. Estabrook with one of our neighbors; he can doubtless give you information regarding your business here. So, for the present, I wish you a good morning. (Exit into house. Short. Good morning, {lifts hat politely.) Cool and bracing but here comes my man; now to ascertain what he wishes me to knock down, professionally speaking. He seems in animated conver- .sation with his companion. What if they should be talking of a hid- den crime. I'll do it! Secreted behind this tree I will listen to their words, and it may prove a daring robbery at the very least. {Hides behind tree. Enter Estabrook and Gardner. FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 9 ESTA. (as Jie enters. It is useless to press your suit farther with me, Mr. Gardner. Mrs. Estabrook and myself are, as you are aware, bound up in our only daughter, and when she leaves us it must be to marry some one whom she truly loves and who will make her a good husband. Gardner. But Mr. Estabrook, I hardly think I am distasteful to Miss F"lorence. I deemed it my duty, however, to sptak first to you. ESTA. I appreciate that; but I have fully determined not to lead her choice in any way. If she loves you and her mother and myself are satisfied, she will be yours. I can only say. go win if )-ou can. Gardner. Thanks for that assurance, Mr. Estabrook. You will pardon me, but I have learned from reliable sources that you have become temporarily embarrassed. Now you know my income is am- ple, and should you use your influence with Miss Florence, any re- quest of yours would be granted. EsTA. Excuse me Mr. Gardner, you have been misinformed. Hiram Estabrook makes no obligations that he cannot meet, and in any case my daughter's hand is not for sale. Good morning. {Exit into house. Short, {head appearing- from behind tree.) Cool and bracing — this is very interesting. Gardner, {looking after ^.^TABROOK.) That's like these shabby genteel gentlemen, poor and proud. But pride goeth before a fall, and that girl will yet be my wife. She is just the sort of girl I like — courageous as a lion, spiteful as a wolf and as cunning as a wild cat. . Just the sort of woman a man of my disposition likes to tame, and ben.d to do his bidding. My bluff to assist him does not go. It was a bold one for me, for had he accepted I should have been at a loss to know how to have helped him. I am up to iny ears in debt, and my creditors are already making my life miserable. This difficulty of Es- tabrook's is only temporary; could I but win his daughter's hand, her marriage portion would save me from ruin, and at the old man's death I would come into this estate. Whatever obstacle arises in my path, she must and shall be mine. {Exit R. I E. Short, {coming from behind tree.) I know it is contrary to the rules of etiquette to be an eaves-dropper, but this certainly looks in- teresting. Poor father, charming daughter, and suitor not any too strong with the aged parent. Oh, I may strike a case here after all; but there's no mystery, it's open as the day. nothing to detect —just my luck. Cool and bracing. ESTA. {heard zvithin.) You say he is in the garden. I will find him. {Enters from house.) Short, {approaching him?) Mr. Estabrook, I believe.'' ESTA. Yes; and you - Mr. Short.^ 10 FAITHFUL FRIENDS. Short A. Little Short, a Northern cruiser in Southern waters; auctioneer at present, but with aspirations. Ah, I need say no more, I was informed by Mr. Glenny of Glencoe that you desired my pro- fessional services this morning, so I rode over. ESTA. Yes, Mr. Short; I am glad to see you. You have been highly recommended. Short. Pleased sir; highly delighted. Now what am I to have the pleasure of knocking down, or rather selling, this morning.' ESTA. I wish to sell a number of my young negroes. I dislike the task more than I can say, as there has not been a slave sold on this plantation for years. Now, however it becomes necessarw Short. I understand, sir. Bad crops, heavy expenses, profits on wrong side of the ledger &c. &c. &c. ESTA. No, you are mistaken. I cannot blame nature; she has been more than kind. Crops have been good and the plantation has been more than ordinarily successful; I have only to blame myself. I was led into a speculation and risked more than I could safely do, without endangering the estate. The affair was unfortunate and I lost heavily. As security I gave my note for three thousand dollars. This note has fallen into the hands of the brokers and it must be promptly met or action will be commenced against me at once. I have delayed in the matter for some time, but now I find that my only resource is the young negroes. Therefore they must be sold and at once. Short. Excuse me Mr. Estabrook; our short acquaintance hardly warrants my presumption, bnt I have dabbled in law a bit myself, and might be of service to you. Have you a memorandum of the note with you.' ESTA. {takes out pocket-book.) Yes, here; I took it from my safe this morning, but did not examine it closely. ' Short, {takes memorandum.) Ah, yes, $3,000. Why, my dear sir, this note must be met within three days, and payment must be made at New Orleans. You have delayed in this matter until it is nearly too late. ESTA. It must be met. otherwise it would be my lasting dis- grace, and I could never hold up my head again. Short. Then you must act speedily. We are two days from New Orleans by boat, and the last mail packet leaves Roscoe at nine to-night. You must take action at once. EsTA. I will; but hush, not a word to my wife; here she comes. Enter Mrs. EsTABROOK//-^;« house. My dear, I have just been talking business with Mr. Short, and have prevailed upon him to remain and dine with us. FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 1 1 Mrs Esta. I am glad to hear it. Ah, our neighbor, Mr. Gard- ner is returning. I sec. Enter GARDNER. L. I E. Gardner. I am pleased to greet you, gentlemen ESTA. Mr. Gardner, Mr. Short. This gentleman has driven over from Glencoe to manage my sale to-day. I trust you will re- main. Gardner, {to Short. Pleased to know you, sir. Been in this country long.'' Short. No; just cruising about in search of bids. Gardner. From the north, eh.^ Short. Yes, from the land of blizzards and snow storms, and keenly alive to the beauties of the south. EsTA. {going np stage.) Where's that boy Rastus? Mrs. Esta. He was here a moment ago. I reckon he has gone to look for Florence. He is almost as watchful of her as her dog Frank is. Short. Your daughter is fond of outdoor life it seems, Mr. Estabrook.'' EsTA. Yes, she lives in the open air. swims like a duck, shoots like a Nimrod and is the best horsewoman for twenty miles around. {sliouts and cheers outside.) What's that.-' Ah! if you don't believe it look at her on her homeward ride. Sits in the saddle like a caval- ryman. She's perfect mistress of the rein. ^\\}'i\Q,.— Shouts as Florence enters folloived by RastuS and ne- groes. Gardner rushes to help her dismount, hut she Jumps doxvn before he gets to her side. Flor. No, thanks, Mr. Gardner, I have been taught to help myself {stands up stage centre patting horse' s head.) Oh, papa. I've had such a ride, up hill and down dale, scurrying through the brush and Tony leaping over fences. I can never thank you enough for this good; kind horse. He is all spirit and fire, yet under rein as do- cile as a lamb, What a temper he had! He tried to show it, but when he found that mine was equal to his he gracefully yielded, and now we are the best of friends. Arn't we dear old fellow.'' {caresses horse. — dog comes up to her.) And I must not forget my other friend, faithful Frank, {pats the dog.) What a time we have had. Frank running like mad in his attempt to race with Tony. Oh, you beauty, come and kiss me. I do think a deal of him; I know he does of me as well. He and Tony are great friends; we are all friends, faithful friends. Short, {aside.) Oh, that dog don't know his luck. ESTA. Florence, my child, your enthusiasm has caused you to forget our guests. Mr. Short, my daughter, Miss Florence. 12 FAITHFUL FRIENDS. Short. Charmed, delighted, Miss Estabrook to greet one of nature's beauties. It is a delightful experience to meet a natural woman, after the affectations of modern society. FloR. You are very kind. Of society I know very little. There are few young folks about here, and my society, aside from my dear papa and mamma, is my horse and dog. Gardner. You enjoy your rides, Miss Florence.-' FlOR. Indeed I do. What can be grander than the cool, bra- cing air of a spring morning, and a ride on the back of a noble horse, over a road fragrant with budding magnolias; the air sweet with the song of birds, and the company of a noble animal who seems to know your very thoughts, and changes his pace in accordance with them. {Frank, the dog goes toward GARDNER, ivho strikes h\m a light blotu with his cane. Frank grotv/s and barks.) Don't strike him, Mr. Gardner, please. No one ever whips my dog. Gardner. Dogs and niggers must be whipped to make them obey. Flor. Then your experience, I am compelled to say, must have been with curs. Short, (aside.) Cool and bracing, again. ESTA. Gardner is right about niggers. They are alwa3's an- noying, lazy, good for nothing and object to being sold. Jeff^ this morning, annoyed me because I am going to sell his child, Manda. Gardner. You allow too many privileges, Mr. Estabrook. Those black rascals have no feeling; its animal cunning. They want sympathy —those negro mothers care more for a pipe of tobacco than they do for a child. Once out of sight, out of mind with them. Short, {to Florence.) Your dog — Frank you call him — seems to be very intelligent, 'ou want, I take the money, 1 can do more with it. Gardner. Come on; the horses are waiting and we must ride as we never rode before. (WOODRUFF crosses and exits at L.) Flor- ence Estabrook will be in m)' power in an hour. How I will gloat over her misery. But .'^he shall not know who I am. At last I shall see this brave woman suing for mercy at my feet. {Exit L. change. SCENE III.- Rocky pass in 4. Set Rocks. Roadzvay by river if practicable. Wild, desolate looking scene. Enter Uncle Jeff, R. 4 E. folloived by DiNAH, much fatigued. Jeff, {speaking off.) Come 'long mammy; don't lose yo' sperit; you's good for de balance ob de way in no time 'tall. Dinah. 'Deed I'se putty nigh used up Dis day has bin nuffin but trouble and 'citement and dis yere ol' woman can't stand it. Jeff. Jus' t'ink mammy, we'se gwine down to de kiiidin' to hab de last last look at our Manda befo' dey take her away, p'raps forcber. Dinah. I know; but let me res' my old bones a minit, and den I'll be as spry as a June bug. Unc'Jefif, I must res' jus' a minit. Jeff. All right, Dinah. I guess we got time ter make de land- in'. Bv crossin' tru de bresh an' climin' ober de rocks, we save a good mile. How yo' feel now, Dinah.' Dinah. Jus' tol'ble— look yer. 1 can't git it tru my black wool why Mars' Ga'dner took sech a powa'ful shine to our iManda. He mus' set a heap on her when pay all dat money fo' her. Jeff. I doan t'ink it's dat. 'Pears to me ders's trouble 'twixt him an' little missy. Lo'd bress her, how she did stan' up an' sass eberybody for our'little gal. 'Deed I'll neber fo'git her fo' dis day's work. 30 FAITHFUL FKIENDS Dinah. She's de sweetest flowah dat eber grew in dis worl' I done t'ought Mars Ga'dner would keep de chile hyar, but he took 'tickler pains dat no one should talk to her 'til she was handed ober to de spec'later. Jeff. An' it was him dat sed dat we could bid Manda good-bye at de landin'. Dinah. 'Deed I'm disappinted in Massa Estabrook. Neber did I t'ink he would sell any ob his people. Jeff. Doan say nuffin' 'gin de massa. Maybe it wus all fo' de bes'. De good Lo'd may hab some good objec' in takin' her — but come. Dinah, we mus' be gwine. {helps her up, and they move slowly down L. I E. Enter GARDNER and WOODRUFF, R. U. E., iinperceived. Gardner. Here we are; this is the place and we are in time. Wood. Hush! Who are them people.'' I thought you said the place was deserted. Gardner. A couple of niggers going home, I take it — listen. Jeff. Now ol' lady, stir yo' stumps; jus' put yo' bes' foot to de front and we'll be at de landin' in free shakes ob a dead lamb's tail. Dinah. All right, Jeff, I'm a comin'. Gardner. (/^Woodruff.) The effectual way to dispose of these people is to frighten them. You know how superstitious they are.-* Just watch — {both hide behind rock.) Gardner, [sighing profoundly }j Ah! Wood. Ah! Dinah, {turning quickly.) Jefferson Washin'ton Estabrook! What wus dat noise.' Jeff. Go on, ol' woman. Dey wasn't no noise — yo'se gittin' silly. Gardner. Ah! Wood. Ah! • Jeff Dinah Marfa Sophronia Estabrook, I done heerd de noise dat time. What yo' reckon 'tis. Dinah. Oh, I'se silly, but I 'spec it's spooks, 'n I wish I wus home. Jeff, {much frightened.) Spooks! Doan be skeered. Look at me. {trembling.) I'se cool as cowcumber. {wiping face with batida- na.) Derc ain't no sech t'ing as spooks. Gardner, {with deep voice.) Who is it that dares to come into the Hoodoo camp.-* They must die. Jeff a«^ Dinah {clinging together.) Oh, I wish I wus home. Gardner. Ah! FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 31 Jeff. Ah! 'Scuse me massa Hoodoo, I ain't got no business hyer. I'se gwine right away! Come 'long yo' foolish ol' woman; \'o' done cause all dis 'sturbatice. Gard. a«r/ Wood. Ah! Jeff, {shoving Dinah off.) Ah, yo'se'f 'n see how yo' like it. {Exit, L. I. E. Gardner, {coming down?) I think we have disposed of them. There's no danger of interruption from that quarter. But now to business — is everything perfectly understood.-' Wood. Yes; I have a horse and buggy about twenty rods from here. Will you take her horse.-* GauDNAR I think it best that we leave her horse behind. It will look more like a mysterious disappearance, to have it found wan- dering about. Besides, it might be recognized with us. Wood. This has been hurried work — but we have arrived on time. Gardner. None too soon. 1 hear the canter of a horse now- quick, m}' disguise, and mind I must keep, well in the background. 1 don't want iier to recognize me yet. When you have her in the buggy, I will start for home and so avert suspicion, and you meet me at Daddy Carey's as we agreed. Wood. Leave her to me. She's not the first I have brought to terms. But listen, be ready. She is here. {Music. Horses Jioofs heard outside.) Enter Florence R. U. ^. follozved by Frank. (Woodruff and GarDiVER hide behind the rocks. As FLORENCE ap- pears. Woodruff msJies out, and seises horse s bridle.) Wood. Just stop a moment, please. FloR. How dare you stop my horse. Release his bridle at once. Wood. Not so fast. Miss. This is no time of night for a young woman to be galloping about in dangerous places. You need a pro- tector. FloR. You are insulting. Release my horse's head this instant or you will bitterly repent this insolence. Wood. Still fiery. Then I must come to the point at once. I'll trouble you for a package ) ou are carrying to Roscoe Landing. FloR. Package.-* What package.-* I have no package. Wood. I am sorry to be discourteous to a lady, but you are telling a falsehood. Enough of this nonsense— so out with it — the money I must have. Flor. What I told you was not true. I have a package which 32 FAITHFUL FKlFNDfs I have been commissioned by my father to dehver at Roscoe to- night. It is a sacred trust, and I will fulfil it at all hazards, {draw- ing revolver^ Come and take it at your peril. Wood, {releasing horse for a moment. You she devil! Gardner, {msliing from behind rock.) Don't let her escape. FlOR. {as Woodruff ivrests revolver from her.) Heaven pro- tect me. Wood. Now, my fine lady, the tables are turned. Quick! off that horse, or I'll spoil that pretty face of yours. Here Jim, {to Gardner,) fa-^ten the horse and let's be off. Flor. I beg of you, ifxou have any manhood or compassion in your hearts, do not keep me frcm tlie performance of my duty. Delay means the ruin and disgrace of my father. Surely he nor I have ever wronged you; why should do such a cowardly thing as to rob me and mine. Wood. Little mercy you would show us at the muzzle of your pistol, you wild cat. No, we are determined — the money we must have. Flor. {taking off^ medallion.) If you want money, here, take this. It is very valuable — a present from my father; but do not rob me of my trust. Wood, {snatching the jewel. Your'e a fool! We'll have this as well. Here, Jim, take this trinket and take care of it. {hands Jewel to Gardner, ivho places it in an envelope and puts it in his overcoat pocket.) Now for the package, quick! Flor. You shall not have it; I'll die first. Gardner, {aside to ^00V>^\5YV.) Don't be rough. Easy with her until you get to Care}''s — then you can get it. Wood. As you say — but I'd like to strangle the little spit-fire. You look out for the dog. Come Miss. You must come with me this way. Flor. 1 will not. Wood. It's no use we must use force. (GARDNER throzvs a cape over her head from behind.) See, we have you at last. (FLORENCE resists, but finally gives up. The dog attacks GARDNER.) {Exit Gardner and dog K. 2. E., struggling. Wood. Now to administer a little quieting medicine. She will hardly return to consciousness before our journey's end. {Puts phial to her nostrils.) Gaidner seems to be having trouble with that brute. The best way to settle him would be a bullet from this pistol. But no — the shot might give the alarm. It's better to be on the safe side. {Enter GARDNER looking used up.) Well, is he all right.? Gardner. Yes, but after a terrible struggle. The beast seem- t'AITIlFUL FRIENDS. 33 ed to realize that he was fighting for his mistress and gave me an awful battle. Wood. Your hand is bleeding, did he bite you.'' Gardner. Yes. This handkerchief will stop the flow — it's nothing dangerous. I have him safely tied to a tree; he can do no further harm. What about the girl.'* Wood. She's quiet enough, and liable to remain so. Lend a hand and we'll be off and in a short time we'll be safe in Carey's den. Gardner. The girl and the money both secured with little dif- ficulty; this is a glorious night's work. And now Miss Estabrook, you bid fair to become the moonshiner's bride. Come. [Exit L. 2. E., carrying- FLORENCE between tJiem. As they go off, the dog appears ivith rope dragging, the end frayed, as if bitten off. He looks after them and then unties the horse and leads hiui off. CURTAIN. ACT III. Scene I. — Interior of kitchen. Door and zvindotv at back. Dinah discovered washing dishes etc. Dinah. Dis don't seem like de happy mawnin' we done hab here ever since I belong to Massa Estabrook. Everything seems gwine wrong and all de niggers look skcerd to death. Dat was sucti a 'sprise to dem yisterd'y dat dey don't know what to 'spect next. Well dis is de worst dey could do to me and Jeff; took 'way our little Manda; after dat dere's no trubble can grieve our hearts 'cept dey'd part me and m3' ol' man. and I reckon Massa wouldn't do dat. Enter UNCLE Jeff hurriedly D. F. Jeff. Dinah! Dinah! did yo' hear de news— did yo' hear it.' Dinah. What's de mattah vvid vo' man- what news you 'spect I ha'r.? Jeff. 'Bout Missy Florence — Dinah. Missy Florence.' Why I 'spose she's 'way for her mo'- nin' ride — de plantation don't see much ob little Missy dis time ob day. Jeff. But ain't yo' hea'd.' She aint been home all de night, and de Massa and ol' Missy are nigh crazy 'bout it. Dinah. Why, when did she go.' 34 FAITHFUL KUIKNDS. Jeff. Last night— but hyar comes Rastus. He may bring good news. Enter Rastus door in flat. Rastus. What yo' lazy niggers doin' hyar.'^ Why ain't yo' out lookin' for little Missy.^ Dinah. I jes heerd she was done gone, from Unc' ]^^. But Rastus, tell us all 'bout it. Rastus. Well. I ain' got no time to flitter 'way wid ) o' com- mon niggers, but if Aunt Dinah has just a drap ob sperits what she puts in her puddin', I might be able to tell yo' all 'bout it. Dinah, {bringing bottle aiid glass^ Here Rastus — now tell us. I'm all in a fluster - how did it happen, and where do dey t'ink sheis.-* Rastus. {taking drink.^ Dat's jes like you women you'se al- ways askin' questions, moah questions in a minit dan a man can an- swer in a week, {takes another drink.) Why don't vo' take it cool like I do.? Jeff. Go on Rastus — tell us what yo' know. Rastus. Well since you're so pressin' — it's jes dis way — yo' see frcm what I could h'ar tru de key holes and 'round the corners, ol' Massa done owed some money what had to be paid 'mediately if not sooner —and dat am de reason all de little ones was sold yisterd'y. Dinah. Yes. and our poor Manda 'mong 'em. Rastus. De ol' man feel awful bad 'bout it, but it couldn't be helped, he had to hab de money. Well it seems dat de money had to go down to Orleans on de packet last night, and dey didn't find it out till de las' minit; den de iVIassa called me and asked m)^ advice. He say to me, "Rastus, how I get dat money down to de boat;" den I say to him, Massa, dere's only one horse dat can make dat journey in time, and dat's Tony. Den he says to me, who can ride de horse, and Missy Florence says, I'll take it, and sho' 'nough, dat gal got on de horse, dat I brought 'round to de door-and galloped 'way into de darkness ob de night, and we hain't seen her since. Ol' Massa don't know what become ob her — or wheder somt'ing happen to her on de way home. Jeff. Why she wasn't at de landin' when de boat started. Rastus. How yo' know dat, man.? Dinah. Yo' be careful Jeff; if dey know yo'd left de plantation las' night, yo'd get de whippin' post. Rastus. Look heah — if yo' niggers know anything 'bout dat boat— or dat landin', you jes tell de Massa. He won't hab you harm- ed, he bress you. I'll go bring him heah, and yo' speak de truf, de whole truf— and nothing but de truf, so helf yo' bob. {Exit L. 2 E. FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 35 Dinah. Now yo' see what yo' done, got yo'se'f in trubble, for talkin' too much. Dey say de women are always gettin' into trubble wid dere tongues— but ebery time a man opens his mouf, he puts his foot in it. Jeff. Never mind Dinah — if I does get a beatin' I'll tell de Massa what I know, and saw at de landin'. It may ease his mind 'bout Little Missy. Dinah. Yes, when he heahs we bof broke de rule 'bout gwine off the place at night, den we bof get whipped. Jeff. No, indeed, Dinah, de ol' Massa feels de sorrow ob his own child's loss now, too much to make us poor colored people suffer more. (Ente7' ESTABROOK followed by RaSTUS door R. 2 E. ESTA. What's this I hear. Jeff.' Rastus tells me you were at Roscoe Landing last night.'' Jeff. Yes, massa Estabrook, I hope yo' fo'gib me fo' breakin de rule, but dat wus de las' chance we had to see our little Manda 'fore she wus taken away; so we walk 'cross de woods an' seed her fo' de las' time. ESTA. How long were you there before the boat started.' Jeff. 'Bout ten minutes, sah. ESTA. And all that time you stood so that you could see any one that rode up to the landing.' Jeff. Yes sah; right by de gang plank. ESTA. And did my daughter, Miss Florence, ride up there while you were waiting.' Jeff. No, sah. ESTA. Are you sure.' Jeff. Yes, sah; and she wusn't dar befo' dat, 'caze somebody would a seed her an' tol' 'bout it. ESTA. True, true — my worst fears seem to be realized. She must have been stopped on the road to the landing and robbed, per- haps murdered. Rastus. {aside.) I belebe it wus dat Sho't man— he's allers talkin' 'bout murder. Golly! speak ob de debil 'n he's sho' to turn up. Enter SHORT, — D. E. Short. Ah, here you are, Mr. Estabrook. I have been looking for you everywhere. Esta. For God's sake, speak — any trace of her.' Short. Not the slighest. We have gone over every inch of ground between here and Roscoe Landing since daybreak. There is not the slightest trace of any struggle. 36 FAITHKUI, KRIKNDS. Rastus. Den I done bettah dan yo' Mr. Sho't. I done found sufifin' dis mawnin'. Short. What was it, Rastus.? RASTU.S. {producing a piece of rope?) Dis'yer. I foun' it 'bout twenty feet f'om de road, tied to a tree. Now rope doan grow on no trees, so I ontied de todder en' 'n t'ought I bring it long hyar. Short. Rastus, your keen, observing faculties will promote you to the detective force yet. This is our first clue. Did the earth about the tree look as if there had been a scuffle.'' Rastus. Yes sah, it was toah up like. Short. Ah, I see it all; we have struck the right trail at last. If you notice, this end of the rope has been bitten off, doubtless the work of some animal, and probably of your sagacious four footed friend, Frank. He tried to help his mistress and was tied up for his pranks, but Rastus where did you find this rope.'* Rastus. At a place dat we folks about hyar call Johnston's Glen. Jeff, {^to Dinah. j Why dat's where we hcerd de spooks. Short. What's that.-* ESTA. I neglected to tell you Mr. Short, that these colored peo- ple were at the landing when the boat started, and up to that time Florence had not arrived. Short. What was that they said about spooks.' Dinah. It wasn't me, Mr. Short, it was dat man of mine. I didn't say nuffin'. Jeff. Yes — but yo' said sufifin when you heerd dat spook go ah! Dinah. Deed. I didn't want to say nuffin' — I want to scoot Short. But where did all this happen.? Jeff. Near dat place Rastus am talkin' 'bout, Johnston's Glen. Short. Tell me all about it.? {to ESTABROOK.) This may lead to something. Jeff. Well sah,yo' see me and Dinah, here — we wanted to git a las' look at our Manda. what yo' sol" yisterd'y, and so afteh da'k we sta'ted fo' de landin'. When we got to Johston's Glen bv de sho't cut, Dinah hear, who is gittin' ol' — Dinah. Ol, yo'se'f; I'm twice es spry es yo' is now. Jeff. W'y Dinah, yo'se good five yeahs ol'er dan me. Dinah. Heah dat fool nigger — yo' go long. I'se nuffin' but a young gal now. Rastus. Yes yo'se bof ol' 'nuff ter eat hay. Esta. Rastus be quiet. Go on, Jeff. FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 37 Jeff. Well, sah, Dinah want to sit down an' res' herse'f, so down she sot. Jus' as we gvvine on, she heerd a voice sayin' — Ah! and golly, if it did'n' skeer me mos' to deff. Short. Did it say anything more.-* Jeff. Yes sah. it said ef we didn't git 'way fom dat dar place de hoodoo would follcr us all our lives. So we git out ob dar quick. Short, {to Esta.) Ah, the returns are coming in. Doubtless this robbery or abduction was planned, and as the presence of these negroes about the place interfered with its execution, they were frightened away. ESTA. But how could they have planned the robbery; no one knew of the arrangment for remitting the money except you and I. Short. That is a mystery that we must unravel. But, at least, we are on the track. Come, let us look over the ground again. A thorough examination of this Johnston Glen may enable us to get on the trail of the abductors. ESTA. If you will join ine in the library in a few minutes, I will accompany you. I must tell Mrs. Estabrook that we have a clue, though a faint one. {Exit, R. 3. E. Short. Sambo, allow me to congratulate you. You are the hero of the hour; to you we owe our thanks for the first clue. RaSTUS. Yo' doan owe Rastus nuffin'. I done heerd what mas" sa say. Dere wus only free dat know dat little missy had de money, an' was gwine carry it to de landin'. Dey is Massa Estabrook. Mis- tah Sho't and Rastus Now it wusn't Massa Estabrook what stole de gal and de money, and it wusn't Rastus, and dere s only one od- der person what know'd; so dar yo' is, Mistah Sho't. Short. What do you mean.' Rastus. I'se got my meanin'. Short. Do you mean to say that I stole the money and carried off Miss Florence.'' Rastus. Oh, I ain't sayin' nuffin'; I'se foolish. Short. Why, you black scoundrel, I have a great mind to throw you out of the window Rastus. No sah, doan do dat. Dere's a big wateh troff under dat windeh, an' I might spile de wateh. Short. Then the water must be spoiled — Siezes RasTUS, froui under ivliose clothes fall to the floor cakes, cookies and a pie, seeing ivhich, DiNAH comes to Short's assistance and together they pitch RasTUS out of the windozv.- Splash. Rastus. {at window, dripping.) Better not do dat 'gin. I'se foolish. [change.] 38 FAITHFUL FRIENDS. SCENE II.— Plain Chamber in L. Enter Mrs. Estabrook, l. i. e. Mrs. Esta. What a night of misery 1 have passed, doubt and anxiety regarding the fate of my little one has nearly driven me frantic. It seems an age since yesterday; sorrow indeed lengthens one's hours. Enter ESTABROOK R. I. E. My dear husband, tell me, tell me quickly has anything been heard of our darling child.'' E.STA. We have found a slight clue, but so slight that I fear to base much hope upon it. Mrs. Esta. And that is—.? ESTA. A piece of rope has been found tied to a tree one end of which has been gnawed off. Our friend Short has a theory that when Florence was attacked, her dog Frank tried to save her, but was tied up and subsequently escaped. Mrs. Esta. But how could you, her father, send her out into the night on such a journey.' Esta. Do not reproach me my dear wife, my cup of misery is already full. Her words yesterday when interceding for little Manda, are ever present in my mind. It seems prophetic, for she said: "If you inflict this great wrong upon your servants, some of your loved ones may be taken from you, and you be made to feci the torture ot' a more painful separation." How soon have her words been realized. Mrs. Esta. Bear up Hiram. We must not lose hope, and should our daughter be restored to us, we should try to buy back little Manda, for I feel with you, that this is a punishment inflicted upon us for separating a child from its parents. Esta. This has been a fearful lesson to me. As Heaven is my witness, I'll never sell another slave as long as I live. £'«/<'r Gardner r. i e. Gardner. Good morning, Mr. Estabrook, good morning, Mrs. Estabrook — you will pardon my entering unannounced, but the house seems in snch a confusion that there was no one to announce me. Esta. We have suffered a terrible loss, Mr. Gardner. Gardner. Yes, I have heard, and wished to be the first to ex- press my sympathy and to do all in my power to help you in your search. Esta. I thank you, Mr. Gardner. You must excuse my hasty words of yesterday. I was very much annoyed, and must confess I doubted your friendship. Your hearty tender of help in this our ex- tremitv, convinces me that I wronged vou. FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 39 Gardner. You did, indeed. I love your daughter sincerely, but as she does not reciprocate my feelinors, I have tried to think it may be for the best. I was too hasty in my words to her, but now that she may be in imminent peril, we must do everything in our power to find and restore her to her mother's arms. Mrs. Esta. I thank you. Mr. Gardner. This is the greatest sorrow of my life. My poor dear; I am distracted when I think of her possible fate. Please excuse me — {Exit, L. I. E. Gardner. Poor woman, her heart is nearly broken. Indeed, Mr. Estabrook, your wife and you have my heartfelt sympathy — but something must be done, and at once. I cannot understand how anything could have happened of a serious nature She is a perect horsewoman and knows the country well. Again, what object could any one have had in molesting lier.'^ ESTA. Robbery. I fear. Gardner. Robbery.? ESTA. Yes. I foolishly allowed her to be the bearer of a large sum of money to Roscoe Landing. It was necessary that it should be there last night before the departure of the south bound packet. She volunteered to be the messenger and I. fearing no danger, con- sented. It will be a lifelong regret to me, and should she not be found it will kill her mother. Gardner. She had a sum of money with her.'' ESTA. Yes, the proceeds of the sale of yesterday. Gardner. That puts a n^w face upon the affair. ESTA. Why.? What do you mean.? Gardner. That her disappearance may have been voluntary. ESTA. I do not understand you. Gardner. Mr. Estabrook, I appreciate your feelings as a fath- er and dislike to give exression to a tiieory of your daughter's ab- sence that may wound you deeply. Esta. Speak, man; do not keep me in suspense. Gardner. As you know, I love Miss F'lorence and would make her my wife, but the circumstances of this affair lead me to suspect that she was not abducted, but has run away. ESTA. Mr. Gardner, how dare you say such a thing regarding my daughter. Were I not an old man, sir, I would crush you to the earth. Gardner. Easy. Mr. Estabrook. I knew I would offend you, but it is just as well to face all the possibilities. Your daughter is wild, imperious, and headstrong. You thwarted her in a matter up- on which she had set her heart, and she is impatient of restraint. Do 40 l"''^ ''I'H FU L FU 1 K \ 1 )S you remember her words when she wished you to spare the child? "Papa," she said, "you will re^^ret this to the last day of your life." ESTA. It is true; but I cannot harbor such a thought. My child upon whom I have lavished affection, whose happiness has been my sole object in life, she to be so ungrateful.'' No. I will not believe it. She may be wild, she may be headstrong, but Florence Estabrook is not a thief. Gardner. There you misunderstand me. I would not insinu- ate that she had stolen the money, but could she not have visited some of her friends, could she not have purposely stayed away last night, to punish you for your imagined cruelty to her.' Is not my theory reasonable.'' ESTA. It is not only unreasonable, but it is unjust. Gardner. Believe me Mr. Estabrook, I am sorry that I gave words to my thoughts. I hope you do not think the less of me for so doing.'' ESTA. I understand you perfectly Mr. Gardner, but it is evi- dent you do not understand the girl whom you would make your wife. Gardner. Then to show my interest in her welfare, 1 ask to be employed in a renewal of the search. We will leave no foot of the ground between here and Roscoe unexplored. Something is likely to result from our search. Enter Short, hurriedly. Short. Ah, here you are, Mr. Estabrook. We have examined the ground near where the knawed rope was found, and there are signs of a struggle having occurred there. But there the clue ends as yet; no trail ot people going in any direction. w,is discovered. Now, we must organize parties to go in different directions from that point as a centre, and scour the country for twenty miles around. Gardner. Yes, that is a good suggestion, Mr. Estabrook; and lest you should imagine that I am inflexibly wedded to my own the- ory, I offer to take charge of one of the parties. EsTA. Tnank you. Mr. Gardner, 1 believe you are sincere. Short, {aside.) And I believe he is a damned rdscal. ESTA. But come, let us start at once. There is not a moment to be lost. {Exit, R. I.E. Gardner, {aside.) My plan is succeeding admirably. I will follow the right trail, send them in other directions, and thus throw them completely off the scent. {Exit R. i E. Short. If I'm any judge of human nature, that man is a scoun- drel. I don't know why I say so, but I am compelled to. His ac- tions yesterday do not lead ffic to infer that he will do much"^ for the FAITHFUL FRIENDS. A 1 fare of Miss Florence. I may be mistaken, but I'll gamble a twenty- dollar gold piece to a stick of candy that I am not. My fine South- ern gentleman I'll keep my weather eye on you, and if you're in dny way tricky I'll be down on you like a thousand of brick. {Exit R. i E. SCENE III. — Carey s Den. A tumble-down place. Door K. C. Win- dotv L. C. Another door tvith bars across, L. 3. E. As scene draws off a crowd of rough men discovered seated on benches, drinking from tin cups ; some playing cards. CakeY dozing by fireplace, R. 2. E. MOTHER CarEY, an old hag is quieting men, who are laughihg loudly. Mother C. Hush, hush my pretty birds, or you'll waken the old man, and some of you will find he's not in a cheerful humor. Some- thing has gone wrong at the still, and he's as cross as two sticks. Voice, All right mother, but give us some more liquor. Mother C. Ah, that's what you want my pretty birds, ah, you take to it as a duck does to water. All. {loudly.) Drink fair, and give us some more. Carey, {zvaking.) What's all this noise.^ What do you all mean by raising such a row; do you think you are in a tavern.^ And you, you old fool, is that the way to keep them quiet, filling them up with drink.^ The first thing you know the officers will be down upon us, and the whole concern will be snuffed out and we in limbo. Mother C. I only just give 'em a bit, 'deed I did. All. That's so — that's so — Carey. Be quiet! all of you. I,ve had bad news, to-day, and we've got to be very shady, instead of taking more chances. Mother C. What is it, Daddy.^ All. Yes, what is it— tell us.? Carey. Well, the revenue officers have had some hint of our place here. I don't know if we have a traitor among us, but if we have, he's got to die. You remember your oath.? All. We do. Carey. Then think of it well. You know me and your cap- tain. The man who splits on us will take his life in his hands. So take heed. Mother C. Don't be harsh, Daddy; the boys are all good fel- lers, and not a telltale or coward amongst 'em. All. Good for the old woman- hurrah! 42 FAITHFUL FRIENDS. Carey. Hush! Be quiet, curse you. If suspicion is once di- rected to our den, we'll have to make tracks on short notice; so we'll have to keep quiet for the sake of our necks. Keep watch of every stranger and let no one approach if at all suspicious, {ivhistle outside) Hush! what's that, {whistle repeated.) Quick! clear the cabin. Your voices were heard, and perhaps they're down on us already. Out with you quietly, by the back way, and make for the cave near Wat- son's Bluff. Quick! {knock on the door. Exit the gang.) Old woman you go to the door, {sits by the fire, pretending sleep. Mother. C. {goes to door, opens it a little.) Who's there .^ Wood, (outside.) Hurry up, open the door. Mother C. Una trembling voice.) I don't know you. We're afraid; me and my old man are scared of robbers. You can't come in here. Wood, {loudly.) Open the door I say, and be quick. Tell Dad- dy Carey Tm from the Captain. Carey, {coming to door.) And he told you to tell me — Wood. The moon is out to-night. Carey. It's all right, let him in, I hope the Captain is not tak- ing chances.^ (MOTHER CAREY opens door, WOODRUFF enters carry- ing Florence, he places her in chair.) Wood. I thought you'd never let me in. Mother C. What is this you've got.? A lady— who is she.? Wood. Never mind that now; give mc a drop of liquor to re- vive her. We've had a long hard ride, and she's not in the best of conditions. Hurry up, give me some whisky. Carey. I don't like the looks of this. My place is in rather bad repute now, and this job won't help matters. Wood. Well, I came here by the Captain's orders. He said bring her here, and here she is Carey. But what's to be done with her.? This is no place to keep a woman. Wood. Well, that's his affair. Put her in a good safe place; its only for to-morrow and then he takes her to a place that is being prepared for her. Carey. Well, its lucky I started the boys to the mountain. It won't do to have too many witnesses to a job like this. From her dress she's a lady, and there'll be a search the whole country round. Probably a big reward. The Captain is growing too bold, I've told him that women would be his downfall, and darn me if he hasn't started in that track already. (FLORENCE moans.) Wood. There, she is coming to, where can we put her.? FAITHFUL FRIENDS. 43 Carey, {pointing l..) In there; we call it the guard room ,and sometimes lock some of the boys up if they get refractory. Mother C. Oh, don't put her in there; she's such a little wo- man, and she looks all tired out. Carey. There you go again with your whining. Don't be a tender-hearted fool; this is no job of ours, and the sooner its over the better. Wood. We had trouble enough. Perhaps the old woman can coax her better than we can. she's a plucky woman, and a little she- devil when aroused. Let us leave her with Mother Carey. Carey. Perhaps it's best. We'll go to the stables and see that your horse is put away. I'll lock the door on the outside, so there'll be no chance for her to escape — come. {Exit WOODRUFF, D. F., locking the door.) Mother Carey. (c7/>/'r