MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. rama, in Three Acms BY TEE AUTTE OR OQ " Better Than G-old," " Our Folks," " The Flower of the Family," "c Enlisted for the War," "My Brother's Keeper," "The Little Brown Jug," "Above the Clouds," "One Hundred Years Ago," "Among the Breakers," Bread on the Waters," " Down by the Sea," " Once on a Time," "The Last Loaf," "Stand by the Flag," "The Tempter," "4A Mtysterious Disappearance," " Paddle Your Own Canoe," "A Drop too Much," "A Little More Cider," "A Thorn Amongr the RIoses," "Never Say Die," "Seeing the Elephant,"' "' he Boston Dip," "The Duchess of Dublin," "Thirty Minutes for Refreshments," "We're all Teetotalers," "A Close Shave," ".A Public Benefactor," "A Sea of Troubles." "A Tender Attachment," "Coals of Fire," "'Freedom of the Press," " Shall Our Mothers Vote?" " Gentlemen of the Jury," "Humors of the Strike," "My Uncle the Captain," "N6'ew Brooms Sweep Clean," " The Great, Elixir," " The Hypochondriac, " The Man with the Demijohn," " The Runaways," "The Thief of Time," "Wanted, a Male Cook," "A Love of a Bonnet," "2A Precious Pickle," "No Cure no Pay," "The Champion of Her Sex," "The Greatest Plague in Life," "The Grecian Bend," The Red Chignon," "Using the Weed," "Lightheart's Pilgrimage," "The Revolt of the Bees," "The Sculptor's Triumph," "The Tournament of Idylcourt," " The War of the Roses," "An Original Idea," "Bonbons," " Capuletta,"' Santa Claus' Frolics," "Snow-Bound," "The Merry Christmas of the Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe," "The Pedler of Very Nice,"' The Seven Ages," " Too Late for the Train," "The Visions of Freedom," "Rebecca's Triumph,"'Comrades," "Past Redemption," "Nevada," &c., &c. BOSTON: GEORGE M. BAKER AND COMPANY, 47 FR, An KLT STREET. Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1872, BY GEORGE M. BAKER, i In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. BOSTON: StEREOTYPED AND PRINTED BY RBAD, AVERY, & CO. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. A DRAMA IN THREE ACTS. CHARACTERS. ABEL BENTON, Merchant. MATTHEW ALLEN, ) RICHARD CARNES, his Clerks. CHARLES BENTON, JOB LAYTON (Scraps), a Rag-picker. GRACE BENTON, Abel's daughter. RACHEL ALLEN, Matthew's sister. BETSEY BENTON, Abel's sister. COSTUMES. ABEL BENTON. Blue coat, white vest, white necktie, dart pants, gray wig, side whiskers. MATTHEW ALLEN and RI1CHARD CARNES. Act 1 and 2, Business suits. Act 3, Evening dress. JOB LAYTON. Act 1, Ragged coat fastened at the waist with a rope, rough iron-gray wig, rough beard, dark pants, large boots unblacked, dark necktie, old hat. Act 2, Black pants and coat, white vest, white necktie, hair and beard trimmed. The dress should be good but slouchy. CHBALES BENTON. Act 1, Dark pants, white shirt, a large wet 8 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. handkerchief thrown loosely about his neck, boots in his hand, and coat over his arm, socks on his feet, hair dripping wet. Sprinkle the clothes with bits of isinglass for a general soused appearance; change to Base Ball suit, with the letter G on breast. Act 2, Business suit. Act 3, Neat evening dress. GRACE BENTON. Act 1, Fashionable summer dress, with shawl and hat. Act 3, White evening dress, rish and tasty. RACHEL ALLEN. Acts 1 and 2, Neat and pretty street dress. Act 3, White. BETSEY BENTON. Act 1, Black silk dress, scant, old-fashioned shawl and hat, gray front of hair. Act 3, Black silk dress, white bertha, front, and cap. ACT 1. SCENE.- ABEL BENTON'S counting-room. Desk against wall, R. Desk against wall, L. Writing table, c., with drawer opening at back. Chairs before desks, R. and L. Chair R. of table. Lounge behind table, c. On desks inkstands, pens, paper, &c. The entrances are from R. and L.: that on the R. is from the warehouse and the street; that on the L. leads to ABEL BENTON'S private room. RICHARD CARNES discovered seated at desk, L. Richard. 56 -65 -72 -81 -90. Figures, figures, figures!'m heartily tired of this drudgery, day after day, casting up columns that add no sum total to my earthly happiness. If one could be as lucky as our head centre, Abel Benton, patience would indeed be a virtue. But he's one in a thousand. First a rag-picker, a searcher in cast-out heaps of rubbish for scraps of paper, rags, old junk, anything that by accumulation could pro. duce a few pennies with which to keep soul and body MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. together; then, by the usual stages of honest industry, rising to the more honorable position of peddler, proprietor of a small junk shop, general speculator in paper stock, and now gathering rags from every quarter of the globe, supplying almost every paper-mill in the country; with an income sufficient to glut the appetite of the most luxurious, and a name A 1 on the street; while I, with a rich and stingy old father, am forced to drudge in the counting-room of this opulent rag-picker for a meagre salary, keep myself, and grow rich on expectation. 0, it's a funny world - 7 - 16- 21 - a remarkably facetious old globe - 32 - 37 - 41. Hallo; who's there? Enter SCRAPS, R., with a basket. In all his scenes his eyes are roving about the stage, and in this Act he picks up scraps of rags and paper, which should be left about for that purpose. Scraps. Eh, hey! (Puts his hand to his left ear with this word, always.) 0, if you please, Mr. Carnes, here's my ticket from the warehouse; twenty-five cents - white, all white, four pounds and a quarter -just twenty-five cents. Hey, Mr. Carnes. Rich. (takes ticket, and gives SCRAPS scrip from desk). Twenty-five cents; and is that the extent of your day's pickings, Scraps? Scraps. Hey? Yes, that's all. Pickings is hard, Mr. Carnes. Rich. 0, you'll never amass a fortune at this rate. Look at the shining example of successful rag-picking at the head of our house, and stir your stumps a little more liveoy, Scraps 10 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Scraps. Hey? Stir my stumps? 0, no, can't do it I've got the gout with too high living. Ia, ha! high living! I think I'll retire, and live on my fortune; ha, ha! my fortune! That's good; that's exceedingly good. Rich. You're an old sinner, Scraps. Now I've no doubt you have a snug sum stowed away in one of our banks. Scraps. Iey? Rich. You'll cut up rich one of these days. In which of our banks do you deposit? Scraps. Cut up pranks, at my time of life - no, no. Rich. (rises, crosses, looks off, R., then comes down R. of SCRAPS). Now, look here, Scraps; you're not so deaf as you appear. I happen to want a hundred dollars Lend it to me. I'll pay you ten per cent.; the banks only give you six. Let me have a loan - Scraps. Hey? Let you alone? I can't hear, you know. You're on the wrong side. Rich. (angrily crosses to L., pushing SCRAPS back as he passes). Bah! you old fool! None so deaf as those who won't hear. (Sits at desk.) Scraps (pointing L.). Is Mr. Benton in there, Mr. Carnes? Rich. Yes, he's in there, and very busy settling his last year's business. Not to be disturbed. Scraps. O, he's a rich un, he is, and once he was as mean and dirty a rag-picker as I am. We were chummies then, we were; ha, ha! not very chummy now — not very. He was a chap what saved his money; mine went as fast as it came. He took to books; I took to billiards. He loved study; I loved sport. And MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 11 so the road in which we picked parted o.e day; he crawled up hill, and I down. Now he's a looking off over his vast possessions from the top of the hill, and I'm picking away in the mud, far, far below. Let this be a warning to you, Mr. Carnes. Rich. Warning to me? What do you mear.? Scraps. 0, you know what I mean. You're fond of billiards, and theatres, and — the tiger-you know you are; and I know it too, for I've watched you many a night. Now Abel Benton don't like this. Here are you and Mr. Matthew Allen, equally trusted. He delights in books, you in billiards; and depend upon it both of these, like everything else about here, will be weighed on Abel Benton's scales, and, when they do, billiards will kick the beam. Rich. You miserable street grubber, do you dare to threaten me? Leave the room at once. Scraps. Yes, billiards is mighty captivating. Rich. (seizing a ruler, and approaching SCRAPS, t-"' backs to R.). Clear out, you croaking vagrant. Scraps. But it takes money, Mr. Carnes, it takes money. Rich. Fool, take that! (Raises the ruler. Enter quickly, R., MATTHEW.) Matthew (steps between, and arrests DICK'S arm). Easy, Dick, easy. Scraps' head is not thick, and the ruler is very thin. Don't spoil either. Rich. insolent old fool! Were I master here, he should never show his ugly face in this place. (Goes to desk, L.) Mat. Then I'm very glad you're not, Dick. Scraps 12 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. is a very worthy old fellow. Since you and I have been clerks for Mr. Benton, daily, winter and summer he has dropped in upon up, and I, for one, should miss him. Scraps. Thank you, Mr. Alien. Rich. 0, you've found your ears, have you. Scraps. I haven't but one, Mr. Carnes; the other's stopped, and I'm glad of it, for a poor old chap like me gets many a hard word flung at him, that can't touch the heart-strings when there's a closed door between. I'm much obliged to you, Mr. Allen. Mr. Carnes wanted to put me out, but, bless you, I don't mind it. I'n never put out, never; and mark me, I shan't be the one put out here -no, no. (Exit, R.) Rich. The meddling old scamp! Mat. Dick, you seem out of sorts to-day. What is the trouble between you and Scraps? Rich. Nothing you can mend. Any news of the Elmyra? Mat. She has just been telegraphed. Rich. Any private signals? Mat. Yes, English rags, full freight, consigned to Abel Benton. Rich. Of course - low market, high prices, and just in the nick of time the Elmyra sails into Abel Benton's pocket with a cargo of five thousand dollars in gold. The old scrub! Mat. And who is old scrub? Rich. The governor, the head centre, Abel Benton, of course. Mat. Gently, Dick, gently. He deserves more re* spect. He has been a kind master to you and me. 3Y BROTHER'S KEEPER. 13 Rich. Well, he ought to have made money enough 6y this time to retire and give us a chance. Now, here's the case of the Elmyra. You foretold a short market; you proposed sending an agent across the water. Your advice was taken; it has proved a success: yours was the veLture; to you should come the profits. Mat. Dick, you are unreasonable. Listen: that ship sailing into port reminds me that seven years ago I stood on the deck of a vessel sailing into this same port. Coming to this country from old England, a lad of fourteen, leaving behind me the fresh-tufted grave of my mother, the only protector I had in the world, my only companion my sister, four years younger. Dick, you have father and mother, rich and powerful friends, everything about you comfortable and pleasant. You never knew what it is to cry with hunger, to shiver with cold, as I did in the old country; you never stood, as I stood then, on the deck of a vessel with not a cent in my pocket, knowing not what awaited me amid the domes and spires of the city we were nearing fast. If you had, Dick, if you had suffered all this, and then felt upon your shoulder the hand which fell upon mine as I leaped ashore, looked into the kindly face that I looked into, you would strain every faculty of your being to serve the interests of so kind a benefactor as Abel Benton. PRIch. Benefactor, indeed! I tell you, Matt, you think too little of yourself. Benton is shrewd. I've no doubt he read in your face, at first sight, the energy and spirit by which he has profited. You've given him hard work for every dollar expended. Mat. Then, there's my sister. He has been like a 14 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. father to her. She is treated in his house as a daughter every wish gratified, almost spoiled by his indulgence. Rich. Well, he doesn't spoil us by indulgence. His old-fashioned notions put double work upon us. He won't have a safe, but requires one of us to sleep here every night. It's very lucky nothing has ever disap. appeared from the warehouse, for I believe he would discharge us on mere suspicion. Mat. He's an odd man, Dick, and no one can tell to what his whims may lead; but with clear consciences, and determination to do our best, we need not fear his changing humors. (Sits at desk, R.) Charley (outside, R.). Old rags! old rags! (Enter, R.) Here you are, now, a prime lot, a little damaged by salt water. Who bids? Going, going. Mat. Why, Charley, where did you come from? Chas. (takes handkerchief off his neck, and wrings out the water). The bottom of the sea. " The sea, the sea, the boundless sea." I'm a river god, a mermaid, - Charley Benton as a live mermaid; his first appearance on any stage. Mat. Come, Charley, be sober. Chas. Sober Do you know where I've been? I've been in the depths of sobriety - at the bottom of the bay. I can lead you to the spot where the flounders are thickest, tor I've floundered among them; where the smelts congregate, for I've smelt'em; where the rock is in the cradle of the deep, for I went straight for it - red hot. Rich. You've been overboard. Chas. Considering my present humid appearance that was not a very remarkable guess. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 1l Mat. And you are wet through. Chas. Thank you; that's a very dry remark. Any tnore interesting news? lrat. If you don't change your clothes at once you'It ha laid up for a month. Chas. Thank you; any fool could tell me that; but don't trouble yourself; I've a dry suit in the loft. Mat. But what sent you overboard? Chas. My love of business I was hurrying down the wharf to catch sight of the Elmyra, and - somebody's been shortening that wharf, for, before I knew it, I was in the briny, and bound for the bottom. Rich. You lummux, walked overboard? Chas. Exactly; clamoring for help, which did not arrive until I'd been down clamming at the bottom. Mact. Well, run and change your clothes. Cha& My base ball uniform is up stairs, and if I can keep out of the governor's way, I'm all right. Mum, boys, for he's down on the manly sport. He knows nothing of the glories of the base ball field, and if he finds me in that rig I shall catch it. (Exit, R.) Rich. Clumsy chap. Served him right. Mlat. Hold on, Dick. There's the faintest shadow of a mystery here. Charley may have accidentally walked overboard, but he took precious good care to remove his boots first. Did you notice? They were as dry as mine. You'll find there is more in this than appears on the face of it. Rich. Matt, you're always finding excuses for him. Miat. Am I? Well, it's because he's a noble-hearted fellow. If he's not a driving business man, it's because 16 MY BROTHER'S KEEI ER. ne has a rich father, and does not feel the need of exer. tion. It's time Mr. Benton was informed of the arrival of the Elmyra. Where away to-night, Dick? Rich. The usual round: a little billiards, a peep into the theatres, and a good time generally. Will you go with me? Mlat. No, I thank you, Dick. It's my night on guard here, and, besides, I don't fancy your sport. Ah, Dick, it's a pity you're so fond of it. If Mr. Benton should get an inkling of your predilections,'twould go hard with you. Have a care, old boy, have a care. (Exit, L.) Rich. (at desk, L.). Have a care, indeed! Preach away, parson. You fancy you are feathering your nest by the remarkably moral life you lead. Bah! With all my love for sport, I can hold my place in old Benton's warehouse. He trusts me as fully as he does you; confides to me as important business as he does to you. I have the advantage in being the oldest, and shrewdness enough to keep my pleasures from being noticed by the head centre. But I'd like to see you, Matt Allen, taken down a peg, and if ever I have the chance, you shall be brought to your level, depend upon it. ( Writes.) Enter SCRAPS, cautiously, R. Scraps (aside). I've been hunting everywhere for Master Charley. 0, he's a sly one. Hullo! there's Mr. Carnes again. Ho, ho! he'd break my head, would he? he'd turn me out, would he? We shall see. It's time Abel Benton knew the snake he is warming. 0, I'l reward him for his kindness. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 17 Enter CHARLEY, R., in base ball dress. Snatches the 5as. ket from SCRAPS, and covers his head with it. Scraps. Help! murder! help! (Extricating himself frrnm basket.) Hallo, Master Charley! Up to your old tricks, hey? Chas. Tricks, indeed! I was only filling your basket with what it so much needs - old rags, old rags. Scraps. Now - now - now - you're a funny dog, Master Charley. But, my eyes, how fine you're rigged! Going sojering, hey? Chas. Sojering? No. This is the emblematic costume of the Gooseneck Base Ball Club. Ain't it gay, red hot. Rich. Red hot! It will be well warmed if the governor catches you. Chas. But I don't mean he shall. When he takes the field, "I'm out on the fly." Ah, Dick, you should join us. It's glorious sport. Rich. Bah! it's so fatiguing and so dirty! Chas. It may be for you, lily fingers. You'd rather spend your time in a smoky billiard room. But for me, give me the free air, the green field, strong, tough fellows striving for the mastery, every muscle alive with health, sharp eyes, eager hands, quick legs, the strike, the run, the catch. 0, it's glorious! Hey, Scraps? Scraps. 0, yes. How much do you get for it? Chas. 0, pshaw, Scraps! don't be mercenary. Get fame, glory. (Takes a small leather casefrom his pocket, and opens it.) Look at that. That's what we get for it There's a badge to be presented to Bob Dyke, our pitcher, this evening, as a slight token of the Goosenecks' 2 18 MY BROTHERES KEEPER. ciation of his valuable services. And I'm to make the presentation speech. Ain't it gay? Scraps. Well,'tis handsome. And you to make a speech? I declare, I should like to hear you make a speech. Chas. Would you? Then you shall. You shall be the pitcher, not exactly the figure, but you'll do for a reaearsal now. You stand there. (Places him in c., and Joes down, R.) Ahem! ahem! Renowned pitcher - Scraps. Hey? Chas. Now what's the matter with you? Scraps. Why, you're on the wrong side. Chas. (crossing toL.). All right. I forgot theimpedLnent. Now then. Renowned- O, stand up; present a dignified aspect. Scraps. Hey? Me present. I thought you was a going to do that. Chas. 0, you're a muff. Stand up; throw out your chest. There, that's better. Now. Renowned pitcher! champion of the ball field, model of muscular manliness - 0, hold up your head, will you? Scraps. How can I hear if I hold up my head? Chas. Shut up! Paragon of perfect proportions, pow litest of peripatetic pitchers, how much we owe thee Scraps. Not a cent. Mr. Carnes settled — Chas. Shut up! As we look back to the glorious victories achieved on Potter's field, we see thy noble form animated with a spirit bold and daring - Scraps. Hey? Spirits?'Pon my word I never drank a drop; and as for swearingChas. Shut up! In tme front of battle, winning re MY BROTHER'S KEE'ER. 19 nown for the, Goosenecks. We would express our grati. tude; and it devolves upon me, the humble instrument of our victorious nine, to present you this slight token of our appreciation of your valuable services. Take it, prize it for the giver's sake; take it, wear it over your noble heart. (Enter, L., MR. BENTON, followed by MATTHEW AULEN.) Take itMr. Benton (takes badge). Thank you, and once in my possession I shall preserve it; depend upon that, Charley Benton. Chas. (crosses to a.). The governor. Foul ball. Scraps. Is that all, Charley?.Mr. B. So, sir, in spite of my repeated warnings, I find you tricked out in a garb I have forbidden, making o fool of yourself when you should be attending to business. Shame, shame, Charles! I thought you were more of a man. Chas. Yes, sir, it's a mistake; I - I - I know it's wrong, but I tumbled overboard a while ago, and as I was very dry - no, wet - I - Mr. B. Tumbled overboard? Chas. Yes, accidentally - not on purpose - walked overboard. Scraps. Don't you believe it, Abel Benton; don't you believe it. It's a lie; a downright lie. Chas. Scraps, I'll break your head. Scraps. Hey? You're on the wrong side. 0, I know him, Abel Benton, I know him, the smooth-tongued villain, and I'll expose his wickedness too. Mr. B. Well, Job, what do you know? Scraps. I know all about it. It's the common alk 20 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. on the wharf; and if I have but one ear; that's wide open. Chas. Scraps, if you say another word Scraps. Hey? — 0, you're on the wrong side. 0, he's a deep one. An hour ago he was on the wharfthis scoundrel. Walking coolly down the wharf. Just before him was a little ragged, dirty girl - Chas. Scraps, Scraps, your life's in danger. Scraps. Hey? You're on the wrong side. Creeping along, picking up chips, and this rogue, this scamp, close behind her. She reached the end of the wharfChas. Scraps, another word, and I'll strike - Scraps. Hey? - You're on the wrong side, I tell you. - Her foot slipped, and over she went; and this villain, this cold-blooded villain 1Mr. B. Looked coolly on. Scraps. Cool, -his boots were off in a second, and over he went, seized the child, and held her head above water until they were both drawn out. Look at him! look at the calm, cool, calculating villain. 0, he's a deep one. M:r. B. Charles, is this true? Chas. I'm sorry to say it is, sir. Mr. B. Sorry i Charley, my boy, you're a nobleHiem! yes, sir, you have disobeyed my orders, and I shall see that you are punished. As for this trinket, I'll take care of it. (Unlocks drawer in table, c., deposits the case, and then locks drawer.) Here it is safe, but you see it no more. (Exit, L.) Chas. Out on the badge. Scraps, I've a great mind to pommel you. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 21 Mat. No you won't, Charley, for he's defended you. Give me your hand. You're an honor to the house. Scraps. What did I tell you? Villany is always found out, always. Chas. 0, I'll be even with you, Scraps. Scraps. HIey? - You're on the wrong side. Chas. We've had quite enough of your interference; so go. Scraps, Yes, I'll go down on the wharf, and hunt up more of your crimes. 0, you're a sly one; deceive your father, hey! walk overboard, hey! Ha, ha! you'll catch it. Ha, ha! (At door, R.) I say, Charley, red hot, red hot! (Exit, r.) Mat. Dick, here's Foley's invoice. You copy that, and I'll take Dixon's. They must both go by next mail. (Sits at desk, i.) Rich. (at desk, L.). All right, Matt. Chas. (sits on table, c.). " I saw it but a moment, but methinks I don't see it now." The renowned pitcher's badge has gone into the governor's drawer, and how the renowned pitcher is to get it, and how the subscriber is to present it to the renowned pitcher, are questions of vital importance, in fact, red hot. The governor won't give it up; but I must have it. Rachel (outside, R.). Goodness gracious, I shall die, I know I shall. Betsey (outside, R.). Do behave yourself, Rachel Allen. I declare, you mortify me to death. Rachel. Can't go another step. (Enters, R., with her arns full of bundles. She drops them in a heap on the floor, R., andfalls on her knees.) It's no use. It's that 22 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. last camel hai* shawl that broke this camel's back. Why, hallo, Clarley! Chas. And hallo, Shellie! what's the matter? Enter AUNT BETSEY, R., shaking her parasol at an imagi nary foe outside. Betsey. Don't you look at me! Don't you dare to Jo k at me Mind your business, impudence. Chas. What's the matter, Aunt Betsey? Betsey. Do look at that impudent - Go away, I say. T)on't stand gawking at me. S'pose he never saw a voman afore. Jest like'em; they're all alike. Chas. (looking off, R.). Why, he isn't looking at you, Aunt Betsey. Betsey. I tell you he is. I know he is. You can't oool me. Chas. No, he's not looking at you, for the very good reason that he's blind. It's only old Foley. Rachel. 0, Aunt Betsey! Ha, ha, ha! what blind devotion! Betsey (sitting in chair R. of table). Well, I never! Rachel Allen, where's your dignity? Get up from that floor directly. Chas. What's all this? Where have you been? Rachel. Been shopping; and 0, my, didn't we make a commotion! There's nothing but bare shelves and bare counters in every dry goods store from the Park to the Square. Betsey. Goodness gracious! hear that child talk. And there's all my things a being ruined on this dirty floor MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 3 Chas. (picks up bundles, and places them on table). MWhose are these things? Rachel. They're all mine, except the five largest; those are Aunt Betsey's. Chas. And there's only six in the lot. That's a very modest way of letting me know that you've been loaded down with Aunt Betsey's purchases. Why not have them sent home? Betsey. Young man, mind your business. When I go shopping I mean to have just what I buy, and nothing else. Them air counter chaps air dreadful spry and smilin, but they can't deceive Betsey Benton. Never! Chas. But, Aunt Betsey,'tis too much for Shellie's little arms. Betsey. Young man, mind your business. When I was a gal I had to work, and I mean everybody round me shall, if I can make work for'em. Chas. Now look here, Aunt Betsey; you and I will have a falling out one of these days, if you don't treat Shellie better. Betsey. Highty-tity, young man! Mind your busi ness. She ain't a goin to be brought up to a life of idle. ness, I tell you. Rachel. 0, now, don't quarrel about me. Why, there's brother Matt. (Crosses, R., and puts her hand on his shoulder.) Well, brother Money Grub, how's trade? Mat. Ah, Sunshine! The Elmyra's come. Trade is looking up. Rachel. 0, I'm so glad. I wish I was a man..I must be so grand to make money. 2741 dMY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Chas, Why, you're avaricious, Shellie. iachel. No, I'm not, Charley. I want the money With which to buy richer treasures- the pcor man's Llessiun anud the sufferer's smile.,att. Ah, Shellie, if we could only think so after we acquire riches! But where have you been? l tachel. Been shopping; and, don't you think, Aunt Betsey was nearly run over. 0, such fun! Betsey. Fun! fun! Well, I never! I'm most dead with fright, and that young one calls it fun! Rachel. Yes, we were just crossing the main street, when somebody called out, "' Look out, there! " And of course we looked out, and there was a running horse almost upon us. I gave one leap and landed on the sidewalk, but Aunt Betsey she just stood in the street, and flourished her parasol, when a ragged individual rushed between her and the horse, caught her up in his arms, and placed her on the sidewalk. 0, she did look so funny, with her arms flying about like a windmill, and screaming like a locomotive. Betsey. Well, I never! And you stood cn the sidewalk and laughed - absolutely laughed. I never was so mortified in my life. Rachel. Ha, ha, ha! I couldn't help it, you did look so in the arms of your preserver. Betsey. Rachel Allen, i'm petrified! Where on airth is your dignity! 2lat.'Twas a very serious matter. And who was the brave man who rescued you? Betsey. Iow should I know? While I was looking for a dollar to give him, he slipped off. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 25 Chas. I should think he would. A dollar Lor saving your life. (Aside.) 0, it's too much. Betsey. Where's your father? Chas. In his office, Aunt Betsey. Betsey. Well, Rachel, you pick up the bundles. I'll just speak to him, and then we must be getting home. (Exit, L.) Rachel. Why, how queer you're dressed, Charley l Is that your working suit? Chas. Well, no -yes, it is one of my working suits. Rachel. What does the letter G stand for? Rich. Stands for Goose, Shellie. Rachel. Ha, ha, ha! How very appropriate! Mat.'Tis very appropriate, Shellie, but it doesn't stand for goose. It's the initial of Great, and, placed where it now is, it fitly represents the great heart beneath it. Charley wears that dress at this time, Shellie, because he has just saved a little girl from drowning at the risk of his own life. Rachel. That's just like him. He's always doing something brave. (Goes up and takes his hand.) 0, Charley, I shall love you just as long as I live. Chas. Will you, though, Shellie? Then let me tell you that I shall ask that - I am - that you are - Rachel. Why, what's the matter, Charley? Chas. Well- I was going to say - that I - that I a - Enter BETSEY, L. Betsey. Now, Rachel, get your bundles, and we'll go. Chas. Once for all, Aunt Betsey, I tell you I will i i have it. She shall not carry those bundles. 26 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Betsey' I say she shall. Young man, mind your busi. ness. Chas. So I will; and it's my business to relieve the weaker sex of their cares when I can. I'll just take pos. session of the bundles, and bring them up to-night. Betsey. Young man, I insist - Chas. Now, look here, Aunt Betsey; don't get me mad; for when I get angry I always run and jump off the wharf- and I don't go alone. Betsey. Good gracious! Do you mean to say you would throw me overboard? Chas. I'm afraid I should if I got mad. Betsey. Come, Rachel, let's go. That youth is on the broad road going to destruction. Come. (Exit, R.) Bachel. Good by. I'm coming back with Grace when she comes for her father. 0, Charley, for shame! Threatening to throw Aunt Betsey overboard! (Exit, R.) Chas. Of all the aggravating creatures, Aunt Betsey is a little ahead. Why don't she get married? She's old enough. She's no earthly use in our house, except to fret and worry, and interfere in all my little arrangements. (Enter SCRAPS, R.) Hullo! you back again? Scraps. Hey? yes. I've a little business with youl father. I say, Master Charley, who's that lady I just met? Chas. Lady? The young one or the old one? Scraps. The tall, fine-looking lady. (Pointing, a.) There, that one. Chas. Fine looking! (Aside.) Scraps is smitten. (Aloud.) That's Aunt Betsey, father's sister. Did you ever see her before? MY BROTHERS KEEPER. 27 Scraps. Hey? No -- yes —yes —once. Chas. You did! Where? Scraps. Now, now, Charley, none of that You're on the wrong side. Chas. (aside). He's smitten, red hot! Bv Jove, an idea. Scraps is rich. Why can't I make a match between them? Dress him up, and start him courting Aunt Betsey. That's one way to get rid of her. (Aloud.) Ah, Scraps, you sly dog, I thought you'd met before. She often speaks of you. Scraps. Often speaks of me? Chas. Yes, thinks you are not what you seem. Nobility beneath the ragged covering, soul shines through his shaggy eyebrows, and all that sort of thing. 0, she's romantic. Scraps. Often speaks of me? Well, that's singular. Chas. Now's your chance, Scraps. Dress up; put on a bold air; you've got the money. " Woo her as the lion woos his bride;" and she'll fall into your arms. Scraps. Yes. Well, I'll think about it; I'll think about it. Enter MR. BENTON, L. Mr. B. This note, Richard, must be in Captain Bax. ter's hands at once. Rich. Yes, sir. I'll despatch a messenger immedi ately. (Exit, R.) Mr. B. Matthew, the Spooner Mills are short of stock. We can get our own price for the Elmyra's eargo. Mat. Then I'd better run up in the morning. Mr. B. 1 think you had. Take the first train. You 28 BMY BROTHER'S KEEPER.,an return in the evening. By the way, who sleeps hew to-night?.IMat.'Tis my watch, sir. i3r. B. That's bad. You cannot catch the early train. Mat. 0, yes, if Charley can come down at six. lMA. B. No; I'll relieve you myself. Mat. All right, sir; I'll make my arrangements ac cordingly. (Exit, R.) Mr. B. Charles, go into my office. I've a few words for you. Chas. Yes, sir. (Aside.) Words that burn -red not! (Exit, L.) Mir. B. Well, Job, old friend, how wags the world with you? Scraps. Hey? 0, well, Abel; well. I pick up edough to keep soul and body together, and now and then a dollar for a rainy day. JMr. B. Why will you persist in this vagabond life? You would be a valuable man to me in the warehouse. I have often urged you to take a place here. Scraps. I know it, Abel; but I like to be my own master. Here I should be cramped. Regular hours and regular work - Not for me, Abel; not for me. Mr. B. I don't like to see an old friend creeping about the streets, picking rags from the gutter like a vagrant. Look at me. The old life is almost blotted out of memory. I have made my way to a respectable position, while you, who started in life with me, still cling to the old existence. It's too bad, J)b. Scraps. No, Abel, not too bad, for it's the life I love, MY BROTIIER S KEEPER. 29 You were ambitious to rise in the world; to get money. You have been successful, and your old friend rejoices in your prosperity. But all your wealth requires much care. You are anxious, uneasy. There are hard lines in your face. The failure of one of your speculations would go near to break your heart. While I manage to scrape,' here a little, and there a little," roam about,;ook and laugh at the follies of the world, watch the struggles and triumphs of busy men, and speculate, without risk, on the rise and fall of stocks. Mr. B. That's very ragged philosophy, Job. Scraps. Hey? Philosophy? No, that's freedom, and freedom gives one so much time for observation to acquire knowledge. Why, Abel, I know more about your business than you do. With all your wealth, you are at the mercy of your clerks. MIr. B. My clerks are models of industry, energy, and honesty. Scraps. All of them? Mr. B. Yes; I would not have in my employ one hour a young man whom I could not trust fully. Scraps. Blind, Abel, blind. I know better. I've seen one of your clerks at the gaming-table night after night. I have seen him enter places where no honest man should go. I have seen this, Abel. I'm a little dull of earT but I've a sharp eye. Ml/r. B. One of my clerks, Job? Which one? Scraps. iey? — Now, you're on the wrong side. Abel Benton, find out yourself. I will watch, but you must trap the game. Mr. l. Is it my son? I tremble while I ask it. 80 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Scraps. What, Charley? No, no; he's the soul of honor. Mr. B. Is itScraps. No, no; fair play, Abel. I've set you on the track. I shall do no more. Mr. B. Very well, I will watch, and if I have the faintest suspicion I will act. My clerks! Job, if I did not know you so well, I should doubt you, and not them. Scraps. O, I'm all right. Now for a little business. I had a scare last night, Abel. Somebody brole into my room, seized me by the throat, and demanded money; but I had strength enough to throw him off, and rouse my neighbors. He escaped; my money was safe; but it must be put in a safer place. (Produces small bag.) Here is a hundred dollars, all in gold. You, Abel, must take care of it. Mr. B. Certainly. (Takes bag, goes to table, c., sits and writes.) I shall not count it; your word is enough. It shall be well taken care of. Here's your receipt. (Gives receipt.) The money shall go in here. (Opens the drawer in table where he has placed the badge, and locks it.) Scraps. What! Leave my money there after what I told you? Mr. B. For that very reason. You have directed suspicion to one of my clerks. Your money should be the bait to catch the rogue. Hush! No more. Here is my daughter. Enter GRACE, R. Grace (c.). Good afternoon, father. Are you ready to escort me home? MY BROTHIER'S KEEPER. 31 Mr. B. (L.). Tn a few moments, Grace. This is an old friend of mine, Job Layton. trace. One I have longed to see. (Crosses to SCRAPS, R., and takes his hand. - SCRAPS confused.) My father often speaks of you, his old friend. Why don't you come and see us? You shall be heartily welcome, and I will do my best to entertain you. Scraps. Lord bless you, pretty one, your father and I parted company years ago - he to go up, I to stick in the mud. I go to your house? Why, your servanta would slam the door in my face. Grace. No, no, Mr. Layton, nobody is driven from our door. There's an easy-chair waiting for you, and if you will come you shall find yourself with true friends. Now promise me you will come. Scraps. Yes, yes, some time I will come. (Turns to door, R.) Good by. (Aside.) She's a darling. Ah, Abel may well be proud of such a daughter. And I, - I might have had a daughter to hang about my neck, to brighten my home, instead of being a lonely, ragged scavenger. 0, Job, Job, I begin to doubt you. Freedom is all very well, but the chain which a loving child throws about a father makes slavery worth enduring. Bah, Job! You a philosopher! More likely an old fool - an old fool. (Exit, R.) Mr. B. Grace, if that man survives me, look to it that he never suffers. When I was poor he was my best friend. Many a time in our rag-picking days he has robbed his basket to fill mine. Under that old coat there's a true heart. He must never suffer. Grace. Never, if I can help it, father. Charley is very fond of him. Where is Charley, father? 82 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. fMr. B. In disgrace. Waiting in mly room for the leca ture he so richly deserves. Grace. Why, what has he been doing? Mr. B. Jumping overboard to save a drowning child. I could forgive that, but he's rigged himself in that out. lawed sporting suit, for which he shall be well lectured. Enter DICK, n. lich. Good afternoon, Miss Benton. (Bows, and crosses to desk, l.) Grace. Good afternoon, Mr. Carnes. Enter MATTHEW, R. Mat. Ah, Miss Grace! You are early. Grace. Matthew, I'm glad to meet you. (Shakes hands with him.) Yes, I've come to carry father oif. Enter RACHEL, R. Bachel. There, I've torn my dress with one of those dirty bales. I declare, I can't see the use of having so many rags about. Mr. B. To turn into money, Shellie. Rachel. Hallo, Uncle Abe! Out of your den? Come, get your hat. We've come to lead you home. Mr. B. I'll be ready soon. By the by, young gentle. men, I have placed a hundred dollars in geld in the upper drawer of that table for safe keeping. It belongs to Job Layton. Mat. A hundred dollars? Isn't that an unsafe place for so large a sum? Mr. B. Not while I have honest clerks. I shall be MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 35 very glad to see you at my home to morrow evening. You will return in ample time, AMatthewv. You will meet there my partner. All. Your partner! Mr. B. Yes, I am getting old, and have decided to take a partner —a young and active man. You wiii have an opportunity to make his acquaintance before he enters upon his duties. (Exit, L.) Grace. Now he's going to scold Charley. But not if I can help it. I've prevented it before, and I'll try it again. (Exit, L.) Mat. (sits at his desk). A partner! A young and active man! Who can it be? Rachel (comes down and leans over his chair). What's the matter, brother? Mat. Thinking, Sunshine, thinking. We must all do that, you know. Rachel. Well, then, tell me your thoughts. My brother should have no secrets from his keeper. That's the bargain, Matthew. Mat. A new master is to step in here, Shellie — here, where, for seven years, we have worked so well together —the old master and his clerks. A man with new ideas, perhaps tyrannical, to upset the old smooth order of things. What says my keeper to that? Rachel. She says, Think on, brother. Think of the good old man who laid his hand on your shoulder so kindly when you were a stranger in a strange land; who has been your steadfast friend from that hour to this, and say, Let new masters come; while the old master lives I have faith that he will never desert me. 3 34 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Mfat. Right, my keeper, right. Do what he may I will believe he loves and trusts me. Enter CHARLEY, L. Chas. Well, I'm out on that. After roosting on a high stool for nearly half an hour, anxiously expecting a storm, that dear sister of mine drops in just as the clouds begin to gather, and all's sunshine. Hallo, Shellie! You here again? Rachel. Yes, Charley. Come, pick up the bundles, and start the caravan. Chas. But we must wait for Grace. Rachel. Then let's take a stroll down the wharf. I want to see the place where you walked overboard. Chas. Yes, where I put my foot in it. I can lead you to it. It's a delightful spot, so cool and retired. Come along. (Exeunt Chas. and Rachel, R.) Rich. Well, Matt. Mat. Well, Dick. Rich. What are you going to do about it - the new partner? Mat. Accept the new order of things, and work as diligently as ever. Rich. Matt Allen, you're a fool! There should be no partner in this concern except you or me. The head centre cannot want capital. Perhaps this is a surprise for one of us. MAat. Surprise? That's not his way of doing business, Dick. Think of our staid, sober old master perpeirating a joke! I couldn't imagine it. No, it's an outsider, -who, I cannot guess. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 85 Rich. I have a strong suspicion, Mat, that jou ~re the man. You have a strong friend beside the throne. Jlat. A strong friend? Who do you mean? Rich. Grace Benton. It needs no very sharp eyes to see that she looks upon you with favor. Always a smile, a pleasant word, for you. She listens as though you were an oracle when you speak, and blushes when your step is heard. All sure signs. Don't be a fool, Mat. She's a rich catch. Be bold, and she is yours. Mat. (rising, indignantly). Silence, Dick Carnes! Another word and I shall forget that we are friends, and chastise you for your insolence. Do you think me so base as to take advantage of the kindness that seeks to make me forget my humble position? so mean as to betray the trust reposed in me by my employer? Grace Benton is too high in social position for me to dare approach her as a suppliant for her hand or heart. Dick, I believe I am an honest man. I look upon a fortune-hunter as no better than a thief snatching at the treasurer of another; and rather than have this imputation cast at me I'd leave this place forever. Rich. Bat, Mat, if she loves —Mat. silence! Another word and we are enemies. (Sits, R.) Rich. (aside). High and mighty! Chastise me for my insolence! Well, two can play at that game. An honest man, indeed! He's too honest. He has no suspicion that the new partner is himself. I have. And he's to step above me. I'd like to thwart the head cenu ire. If he could be made to suspect Mat! But howl 86 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Ah, the drawer! Scraps's hundred dollars! The head centre has the key, but it's not the only key thalt opens. The key of Mlat's desk fits that lock. I know, for I've tried it. It's his watch to-night. I've an idea. (Rises, puts on his hat, and crosses, R.) Mat, don't get angry. You deserve the partnership, and you deserve the girl. It's a pity you can't have both. Good night. - (Aside, at door, R.) An honest man! I've known a fortune to be lost in a single night, and why not a character. Mat Allen, this night I'll play for yours. (Exit, R.) Mat. She looks upon me with favor. She, the bright being that I have worshipped afar off, as men look upon treasures far beyond their reach. What could he mean? Have I betrayed myself? Does he know how madly I love her? No, no; never by word, look, or act have I betrayed my secret. Ah, Grace, Grace! glorious, unattainable; the idol of a cultivated circle, with a throng of admirers about you, your fortune is a safeguard against the approach of the humble worshipper- (GRACF enters, advances across stage, and leans on his chair, listening)who would die to show his devotion. Year by year this love has grown upon me, and now'tis almost too strong to prison in my heart. But I will be strong. I know'tis an honest love, that could boldly speak were all the barriers of wealth and station removed. But this can never be; so to my heart alone, as to a sacred shrine, I'll go to worship you, my glorious Grace. Grace. Dreaming the happy hours away, Matthew? Mat. (rises in confusion). What - Grace - why - how - what - I beg your pardon. Did you speak? Grace. Why, bless me, Matthew, what's the matter MY BROTHER'S KEEPER Have I interrupted some desperate plot, or some dream of love? You really look frightened. JIat. Do I? Well, it's very natural.- No, I don't mean that. Does your father want me? Grace. No; but I do. Now, compose yourself, and we will talk business. Do you know what day to-morrow is? MIat. Why, it's Wednesday - isn't it? Grace. Isn't it! What a bright business man. Tmorrow is the anniversary of a very important event. Mat. Your birthday? Grace. 0, that's not important. To-morrow is the anniversary of the entrance of Matthew Allen into business life. Mat. And you remember this? Grace. Indeed I do, for'twas the beginning of a very happy life for all of us.'Twas then I formed a dear friendship, which has continued until this day. Mat. Ah, Grace, it is so kind of you to say it, - you, who are so exalted in society, to confess friendship for a poor man. Grace. Poor man! I confess no such thing. The friendship, I admit, is with a brave fellow, who has battled night and lay to serve the man who once befriended him; rich in honest worth, noble in every manly accomplishment; a man with a strong arm and a quick brain, who has the right to seek and claim the highest station, )r woo and win the highest lady in the land. Mat. Grace, Grace This to me? Grace. To you, Matthew, for you are the man. Tomorrow my father makes choice of a partner. Who it is 88 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. I do not know. He has kept his secret e en from me I know not what changes may be made, but you, Mat. thew, must leave this place. MJat. I leave this place? You know not what you say. I cannot do it. Grace. Not do it? Whv not? Mlat. Because I love you, Grace. I have hidden it so deep that I thought'twould never escape me. But I must speak. I love you, Grace, dearly, madly, I know. Let me stay here. I will still be diligent in business. I care not who may come to lord it here; only let me be near you. Grace. No, Matthew, you must go. Do you think I will allow you, my fiiend, to be supplanted in this place by a stranger. No, Matthew, you have energy and talent. Build for yourself. Imitate the example of your master, and take a partner. Mat. A partner, Grace? You know not what you say. Where could I find a partner with capital, for that is what I should need? Grcace. 0, I'll find one for you, never fear; one who will join you in any enterprise - strong, brave, true. Mat. Where will you find me such a partner? Grace. Here, Matthew, here, with a capital of earnest, true love. I will be your partner. Mat. Am I dreaming? You, Grace, you? Grace. Yes, I; the woman you have loved so long. Ah, Matthew! we cannot hide it. Try all we may, it speaks in the flush of the cheek, the gleam of the eye, the trembling speech. You have told me that you loved mne, and I - I - Well, I am your partner, you know, Matthew. MI BROTHER'S KEEPER. 39 Mat. I)ear, dear Grace! My partner for life? Grace. For life, Matthew. Fiiiat. Then on this hand - Grace. No, no, Matthew. The head of the new house should have higher aspirations. lMat. Grace, you're an angel! (Puts his arm about her waist, and kisses her lips. - Enter, L., BENTON, with his hat and cane; R., CHARLEY and RACHEL. - GRACE and MTATTHEW separate, look down, con/used.) Air. B. (aside). So, so; signed, sealed, and delivered. Good, good. Rachel. It's a match, Charley. Did you hear that smack? Chas. Do you think I'm deaf.'Twas red hot, Shellie, red hot! CURTAIN. ACT 2. SCENE. - Same as in Act 1. Dark. Candle burning on table, c. MATTHEW seated at L. of it, his hand on RACHEL'S shoulder. She sits on a box at his feet, her arm resting upon his knee. /lat. And so, Shellie, you have stolen away from your cheerful home, with me to keep vigil in this gloomy place. Rachel. Yes, brother. Uncle Abe was busy at his books, Charley had gone out, and Aunt Betsey was nodding over her knitting, so I just put on my hat and shawl, scamperea off, and here I am, to spend an hour with you. 40 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Mat. Ever thoughtful, Sunshine. You well knew your bright face would light up the old counting-rcom, as it has every dark scene in my life. Alh, sister mine, how dreary the last seven years would have been without you to comfort and console. Rachel. Seven years! Why so it is, and to-nicrrow, to-morrow is the day we celebrate. I declare, I'd almost forgotten it. It seems but yesterday that we stood beside the death-bed of our mother. Poor mother! hof, she must rejoice at our prosperity, for I feel her presence always. Mat. Yes, sister; ever near us. Dark was the life journey of the best of mothers. Heaven guard us from thought or act that might disturb her peace or sully the brightness of her pure spirit. Rachel. Amen to that, brother. Dear mother! Can I ever forget her last night upon earth. I was alone with her. She called me to her. The light fast fading from her eyes, her face white as the pillow on which she rested, her thin, white hand feebly sought to grasp mine; but still the sweet, patient smile was there. "Shellie," she said, —dear, dear mother!-" I am going - going to sleep. No more toil, no more trouble for me.'Twill be a long, refreshing sleep. I must not repine, yet'tis hard to leave you to battle with the world. And the other, - my boy, your brother, - 0, Shellie, temptations will be around him. H-e must work for you both. Let him always feel the sunshine of a sister's love. Be his helper, his counsellor, his keeper. Sacrifice the dearest wish of your heart, if you can save him from the cold world's cruel snares." - Dear, dear mother I' Weeps.) MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 4X Mat. Nay, nay, sister, do not weep. She is an angel now. Nobly have you fulfilled her last request. Ever near me, ever thoughtful of my comfort, ever consoler of my dark hours, how much I owe to you. Ah, Sunshine,'tis the strong arm that clears the path, but'tis the gentle hand that points the way, revives the failing strength, and heals the stinging wounds. You have indeed been my keeper. Now dry your eyes, for I want your advice. You know we are to have no secrets from each other. Rachel. That's the compact. Have you a secret? Mat. Yes, indeed; an important one. I'm in love. Rachel. 0, that's no secret. Mat. Indeed, sharp eyes! Well, I've another, then. I'm engaged. Wish me joy, sister. Grace Benton, the rich, beautiful, charming Grace Benton, has promised to be my wife. Rachel. Well, I declare! And I suppose you want my consent. Mat. Your consent? Rachel. Certainly, sir. Am I not your guardian? Very well, sir; you shall have it. Bring her to me, and I will place my hand on your heads, and " bless you, my children," in the mos _.pprcved manner. 0, I'm so glad But, stop! she has a father. Mat. I am aware of that. Now what shall I doe Go to him, confess my love, and ask his consent, or run away with her? Rachel. Both, of course —that is, one at a time. Ask his consent. If he declines the honor of an alliance, elope. (Knock outside, n.) Good gracious! What's that? il MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. iMat. It sounded very much like a knock. Perhaps a message; perhaps some one for you. (Knock repeated.) At any rate, I'll soon. find out. (Rises; takes the candle.) Keep quiet, Sunshine. I'll be back in a minute. (Exit, n.).Rachel (sits in chair L. of table). No secrets from each other, and I haven't told him mine. Come here on purpose too. For I'm in love-engaged. Charley Benton has promised to be my wife - no, my husband. Shall I ask his father's consent, or run away with him. Dear Charley! he's such a queer fellow. I wonder if a young lady ever had a proposal from a man with his arms full of dry goods before. It all happened as we were going home to-night. " Shellie," said he, " dear Shellie!" And then he squeezed my arm, and dropped a bundle. "Plague take these bundles. - Shellie, I love you!" Another squeeze, and away went another bundle. I thought I should have died with laughter. Enter MATTHEW, R. Mitat. (places candle on table). A note for me, Shellie. Rachel. A note? From whom?'Mat. That's just what I'm going to find out. (Opens note.) Hallo! from Charley! Rachel. From Charley Benton? Mat. Yes. (Reads.) "Dear Mat: I'm in trouble. If you don't want me locked up for the night, come to Murphy's billiard-ball and rescue the subscriber, Charley Blnlton." What does this mean? Rachel. Charley in trouble? 0, Mat, go at once! Mat. I cannot, Shellie.'Twould cost me my situation. I am placed here in trust. Mr. Benton would MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 43 never forgive me should I desert my post. Foolish felow! he's always getting into a scrape. Rachel. You must get him out of this. Think, Mat,'tis his own son. He must not be locked up. Mat. I dare not go, Shellie. To leave this place would he ruin to me. Rachel. To be locked up in a cell would be ruin to him. Think of the disgrace. 0, for my sake, brother, do go. Mat. Your sake, Shellie? Rachel. Yes, mine. I am his promised wife. 1Mat. Shellie! And you have kept this from me Rachel. I came here to-night to tell you; but your happiness, of course, took precedence, and I must wait to tell mine. You will save him -won't you, Mat? Mat. But there's no one to leave here. Rachel. Yes, I am here, and you know I'm a famous keeper. I'll guard everything while you're away. Now go, that's a good brother. Here's your hat. (Gives him hat.) M1at. Well, I'll go, Shellie, for your sake. I don't like to leave you here alone. Keep quiet, and do not leave the room. (Exit, R.) Rachel (sits L. of table. Speaks slowly). Charley in trouble Won't I pull his ears for him! What can he have done? Nothing wrong. - IHe's such a rash fellow! -What's that? How lonesome it is here! What can I do to amuse myself? (Takes book from table.) " Promissory Notes," - that's not very promising reading. (Takes up another.) " Bills Payable," — 0, that wcn't pay. What's that? There's somebody at the door. I hear a 44 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. key in the lock. Can Mat have returned so s)on? Hark! Steps! and coming this way!'Tis not his tread;'tis stealthy, creeping! What shall I do? It may be a burglar. 0, heavens! I'll blow out the light. kBlows ctt light.) Who can it be? 0, I wish Mat was here! What will become of me? I'm shivering with fear. Let me hide somewhere. (Crouches at end of lounge, L.) Nearer, nearer! I can hear my heart beat. Enter RICHARD, stealthily, R. Rich. So, so! I've tricked the faithful watchman. The bait took, and he's off on a bootless errand. Well planned, my boy. Now for the key. (Creeps to desk, R.) Rachel. Somebody's creeping about the room! Ieaven protect me! Rich. (takes key from lock). All right. Now for the gold. (Passes to table, c.) Here's the drawer. The key fits. Open sesame! (Opens drawer.) Here's Scraps' shiners. (Takes out bag, locks drawer, creeps back to desk, R., and places key as before.) Successful burglary! The gold is in my possession. Mat Allen will be suspected, and the partnership blown sky high for the present. (At door, R.) I must be off. He'll see the trick, and be back - but too late, too late! The treasure's flown. (Exit, R.) Rachel (comes forward). Gone!'Twas a burglar. The drawer has been robbed, - robbed in Mat's absence, -and I, who should have protected it with my life, skulked in a corner like a coward. What shall I do? 0, brother, did I counsel you wrong? I'll pursue him until help appears, then have him secured. Yes,'tis thU MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 45 only course left. (Creeps to door, R.) Hark! Gracious heavens, he is returning for more booty! Shall 1 raise an alarm? No, no; who could hear me?'Twould be but the signal for my own destruction. 0, Mat, Mat, why don't you come? (Creeps back to hiding-place, L.) Enter CHARLEY, R., with arms outstretched. Walka against table, c.'has. 0, crackee! (Creeps down, R. Walks against desk, R.) 0, Gemini! Well, this is a hard road to travel! I never could have believed it, never. Our Mat deserting his post - for it must have been him I saw slaving the warehouse. Now where can he have gone? It's very lucky I had my key, or my little plot to secure the pitcher's badge would have been a dead failureo Ah, ha, my good father, I do hate to thwart your plans, but what's a fellow to do that has to present a badge, and has no badge to present? So I'm going to avail myself of your key, which I quite accidentally found in your pocket, to open your drawer and secure the badge. I wish Mat was here, for I could very easily have defended my action; but this looks very like burglary. However, the renowned pitcher must not be disappointed. So here goes. (Goes to table, c., unlocks drawer, takes out badge, locks drawer.) There you are, my beauty, to make glad the heart of Bob Dyke. Now for the Goosenecks. (Crosses to R. of table.) Might as well have a smoke as I go down. (Puts cigar in his.mouth.) Wonder if I can find a match. (Searches pockets.) Bachel. What is he doing now? 0, if I could but 46 MY BROTRlER'S KEEPER. secure the villain! If I couid but get a look at his face, that I might know him again! reeps up to table, back 1. corner, leans forward anxiously.) Chas. I've found one. (Draws match across table.) Rachel. Ah, he strikes a light. Courage, Shellie, courage. Chas. All right. (When the match is well lighted, brings it up to his cigar. It illumines his face.) Bachel. Gracious heavens! Charley Benton (Falls on lounge.) Chas. What's that? Rats! rats! (Flings book, L.)' Dead for a ducat." QUICK CURTAIN. ACT 3. SCENE. Parlor in ABL BE NTON'S house. Lounge, L. H. corner. Table, c., back. Arm-chair on rollers R. of table. Arm-chair on rollers, R. c. Chair against wall, near R. entrance. RACHEL discovered lying on lounge with her face buried in her handkerchief. Rachel (raising her head and throwing he'r handkerchief across the room). There, I'm just going to put an end to this business. All day long I've been lying round, making myself wretched, and crying until my eyes ache fir a miserable - I was just going to say thief. Wlh, he is a thief. He robbed his father's drawer, that's certain. I saw him myself. Charley Benton — my Charay —. 0, dear! where's my handkerchief? No, I won't MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 47 drop another tear. I-Ie isn't worth it. And I, like a little fool, instead of telling Mat all about it, must needs lie to shield him. I hadn't the heart to tell my brother, when he asked me if anything had happened, —for he hadn't found Charley, - that Charley had been there. My Charley! - Where's my handkerchief? No, I won't cry. I will keep his secret, but I won't shed another tear. I wonder what he took. Uncle Abe is awful sober, but he says nothing about a robbery, and Charley - I've taken precious good care to keep out of his way - I'll have nothing to say to him. It's most time for Mat to be back. I dread the meeting. How can I look him in the face after deceiving him so? Enter CHARLEY, R. Chas. Ah, Shellie, I've caught you at last. Now, you coquettish puss, explain the meaning of this avoidance of me for a whole day. Rachel (rising). Mr. Benton. Chas. Hallo! That's not my name. It's plain Charley. Rachel. Then, plain Charley, you will oblige me by keeping your distance, by calling me Miss Allen, and by avoiding me, as I shall endeavor to avoid you, in future. Chas. Why, Shellie, what's the matter? Last night you told me that you loved me..Rachel. Last night I thought you worthy of any woman's love. I have found out my mistake. Chas. But, Shellie, I am all in the dark. Rachel. I was; but a ray of light, just the gleam of a match, has wonderfully dispelled the darkness in which 48 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. I was enveloped. You understand -a match. Hence. forth we are strangers. (Exit, L.) Chas. A match. It's the worst match ever I took a hand in. What does she mean? Does she mean the match we made last night? Is she going to throw it off without a trial? I don't like this, for I love her dearly. For her sake, last night, after the presentation, I with drew from the Gooseneck Nine. I must know the cause of this sudden change. It's some of Aunt Betsey's work, perhaps. But I'll know. She's too dear a girl to give up without a struggle. Enter SCRAPS, R., in full evening dress, with his basket under his arm. Scraps. Here I am, Charley, in full regimentals. Chas. Scraps, old fellow! -- I beg your pardou, — Job Layton, Esq. Well, well, it's astonishing what good clothes can accomplish. But you don't want that basket. Scraps. Hey? Chas. You don't want that basket. It's out of place. Scraps. Well, I don't know about that. There's nothing like having an eye to business. (Picks up RACHEL'S handkerchief, and puts it in the basket.) Chas. Put it in the hall. Sink the shop here. Scraps. Just as you say. (Exit, I.) Chas. He's a splendid old chap. Now if we could only make Aunt Betsey believe so! He's just the man to make her a good husband. I think if we could take her by surprise she might accept Scraps, for I don't believe she ever had an offer. There's nothing like being MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 49 quick in these matters; so I'll bring them together at once. Enter SCRAPS, R. Szraps. There, I've put it up stairs with my old togs. Now, what next? Chas. Scraps, you have often said that any favor I might ask of you would be freely granted. Scraps. To be sure I have; and I say it again. C0has. All right. Then I ask you to marry. Scraps. Hey? You're on the wrong side. Chas. You're on the wrong side of matrimony, and the sooner you change your position the better. I've found a wife for you. Follow my instructions and you will be a happy man. Scraps. Marry! I? 0, come, Charley, none of your jokes. Who'd marry me - an old rag-picker? Chas. A poor old rag-picker — with forty thousand dollars. Scraps. Hush! Do you want to ruin me? Chas. I know where you deposit. Scraps. Well, don't tell all you know. Who's the lady? Chas. Aunt Betsey, the lady you saw at the office. 0, Scraps, you'd make a splendid uncle. occraps. 0, but this is all nonsense. She doesn't know me; I've never met her; we're total strangers; it's absurd, ridiculous. I'm going home. (has. No, you're not; you're going to meet Aunt Betsey to-night; and take my advice, Scraps, propose at once, There's nothing pleases a woman so well as ax energetic lover. 4 50 MY BROTHER S KEEPER. Scraps. But, Charley, I don't know how. Chas. It's easy enough. Tell her you've long ad mired her; you have heard of her sweet disposition, her amiable qualities. Scraps. But I can't, Charley. I should be suie to make a mess of it. Chas. 0, it's easy enough. Here's the programme: I introduce you -" Miss Benton, Mr. Layton, a gentleman who has called on particular business." I leave you alone. You bow; offer her a chair; take one yourself, A short pause. You speak. "Madam,'tis a beautiful evening." She answers, " Delightful, sir." Then you, with a sigh, - don't forget that, - But this trait of Nature is not confined to the weather alone. Some women "- emphasize the some - " resemble it." She sighs, blushes, and says, " Ah me." You speak quick. " You have unconsciously spoken my thoughts.'Tis you, indeed," - clasp your hands, -" on whom my thoughts are fixed. Why have you so long remained single? Your attractive appearance, your graceful carriage, your classic face, your coal-black hair -" Scraps. Hold on, Charley. That's too much. The beautiful evening, and ah me, and the sighs, are all very well, but the carriages, the coals, and all that, are too much. Chas. 0, these are merely complimentary epithets. You can number them: one, attractive appearance; two, graceful carriage; three, classic face; four, coal-black hair; five, amiable temper. Scraps (counting his fingers). One, attractive appear. nnce; two, graceful carriage, -all right, I'll keep tally on my fingers. What-next? MY BROT IER S KEEPER..1 (7has. The rest you must leave to inspiration fot here she comes. Tell her you adore her, and tk-:ow yourself on your knees, bm: her to bestow her hand -- Here she is. Scraps. But, Charley, f shall make a mess, I know I ahall. Enter.:ETSEY, R. Betsey. Well, I never. rhere's that fiont door stand. ing wide open, and the coal bin just as full as it can be, too, and Abel away at this i Ime of night, and Mr. Johnson standin in his front yard a smokin a nasty pipe. If there's anything I detest, it's a pipe. When Abel had them gas pipes put in, I told him jest how it would he, though what that's got to do( with smokin tobacco the. Lord only knows. Why, here's Charley, and a strange man, too. Wonder if he wipe(! his feet. Chas. Good evening, Aunt.Betsey. This is my friend, my wealthy friend. Miss Bentoi, Mr. Job Layton. Betsey. How do you do, Mr. Job Layton?'Pears to me I've heard one of them names afore. Layton! Why, bless me, there was a family of Lavtons lived right opposite us-poor as puddock, too. Any relation of that tribe? Chas. 0, no; Mr. Layton is dereended from' a very aristocratic family, of very ancient o-ign. Betoey. Biblical, pr'aps. There wrs a Layton in my family Bible.- No,'twan't, nuther;'twas Job, the man who had so many blisters. Pr'aps he wAs one of your family. Chas. Aunt Betsey, Mr. Layton hao, vrey e.iiuots 52 MY BROTHER S KEEPER. matter to bring to your attention. He wishes to consult you on a subject that lies near his heart. Betsey. What's the matter with him? Hope'tain't neurology or rheumatics. That's always fatal when it affects the heart. What's his symptoms? Chas. I'll leave him to explain. Treat him kindly, for he is one of the best of men. Betsey. Is he? Well, so are they all, till they're found out. There was Judith Higborn's husband. Why, folks thought butter wouldn't melt in his mouth, he was so meek, till Judith sent him one day to the milliner for her bunnet, and that was the last ever. seen of the husband, or the milliner, or the bunnet. Spring bunnet, too, wuth ten dollars. Chas. Well, listen to his complaint, and remember he has my recommendation as an excellent husband. (Exit, R.) Betsey (aside). Husband? Whose, I wonder? He don't look very bright. Well, Mr. Layton, what's your symptoms? (SCRAPS bows, wheels chair down from c., and bows, motioning BETSEY to be seated.) Thank you. (Sits.) Well, he's perlite, anyhow. (SCRAPS goes to a., wheels down chair R. of BETSEY.) What a draft from that door! Guess I'll take the other chair. (Moves inte chair placed by SCRAPS.) Scraps. Hey? She's on the wrong side. That won't ilo. I can't hear a word. (Passes behind BETSEY, takes the chair at her L., and wheels it round to her R.) Betsey. Law sakes, you needn't have troubled your. self. (Miloves to the other chair.) That was just as comr f rtable, just as.comfortable. MY BROTHER S KEEPER. 53 Scraps (looking at her). It's no use. I can't hear a word there. (Is about to move the vacant chair, as before.) Betsey. What ails the man? Stop! stop! Sit down. (ScRAPS looks at her, then sits.) Something the matter with his heart? I should think'twas his head. Now, then, what's the symptoms? Scravs. I can't hear a word. (A short pause.They look at each other.) Madam, it's a delightful evening. Betsey. Delightful evening! The man's a lunatic: I know it. Why, it's raining cats and dogs. The mud is twelve inches deep. It's horrid, horrid! Scraps (aside). Don't hear a word. (Aloud.) But this freak of nature is not confined to the weather alone; some women are just like it. Betsey. Now, what does he mean by that? Some women are horrid! Does he mean me? Scraps (aside). She spoke, but I heard nothing. (Aloud.) Yes, you have unconsciously spoken my thought.'Tis you, indeed. Betsey. What? 0, the main's a lunatic; he certainly is. He ought to be put in a strait thimajig at once. Scraps (aside). What comes next? Single, single. (Aloud.) No wonder you have remained single so iong. Betsey. The sarcastic wretch. Scraps (aside). So far, so good. Now then. (Counts his fingers.) One, appearance- (Aloud.) Your vea erable appearance - 54 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Betsey. 0, the wretch! And he old enough to be my father. Scraps (counts his fingers.- Aside). Two, form(Aloud.) Your antique form — Betsey. 0, I'd like to strangle him Scraps (counting. - Aside). Three, face - (Aloud.) Your coal-black faceBetsey. 0, Charley Benton, you shall pay for this. Scraps (counting.- Aside). Four, hair — (Aloud.) Your more antique hair - Betsey. The man's a fool. Scraps (counting. - Aside). Five, temper - (Aloud.) Your versatile temper - Betsey. Stop, stop, I say! You've said quite enough. (Bises.) Scraps. Hey? (Aside.) What next? (Aloud.) You are dying for me, or I am for you, it don't make much difference. (Falls on his knees.) Behold me at your feet. Bestow upon me your hand.-" If ever I cease to love - " Betsey. I will; there. (Boxes his ears,first right, then left.) There! You're a fool, or a lunatic. If you ever show your face here again I'll scratch your eyes out, you mean, contemptible old ragamuffin. You jest make yourself scarce, or I'll have the police after you. Come here again, and I'll have a boiler of hot water ready, and use it, too. Venerable, indeed! You old idiot! (Exit, R.) Scraps. Evidently not a success. Well, I'm glad of it. I've made a fool of myself to please the boy. I don't know what she said, but I'm on the wrong side. (Bises.) MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. i8 Enter MR. BENTON, R. Mr. B. Ah, Job, you're the very man I wanted. But how's this? Here in my house, and dressed so fine! What is the meaning of this? Scraps. 0, it's one of Charley's jokes. He wanted to bring me out in society. (Aside.) And he has, with a vengeance. Mr. B. Well, I'm glad to see you. But listen. Your money is gone. Scraps. Has it? Well, I'm not surprised. Mr. B. You will be when you learn who took it.'Twas Matthew Allen. Scraps. You're mistaken.'Twas the other. Mr. B. What other? Scraps. Richard Carnes. Mr. B. No, Job,'twas Matthew. Of that I am sure. He was left in charge of the office. He was seen in Murphy's billiard-room at nine o'clock. I'm sure. When I found the money gone this morning, I put a detective upon his track. There can be no mistake. It is Matthew Allen. Scraps. I don't believe it. If forty detectives were on his track, if a thousand circumstances conspired to point out Matthew Allen as the thief, I would doubt all but his honesty. liMr. B. Bah! Job, you're too credulous. He has been false to his trust. Against my express orders, he left my store last night; and should he ever return, 1 will discharge him from my employ. Scraps Don't be hasty, Abel. Give the lad a chance. 56 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. He has served you well. Even if he were guilty, you should be merciful. Mr. B. Merciful to a thief? How do I know but what he has robbed me before? No, he shall be punished. Scraps. Balh! You'll have to beg his pardon for suspecting him. Abel, keep cool. Wait till the real thief shows his hand. Mr. B. He has shown it now. No, no, Job, you like the lad, and would save him if you could; but depend upon it (Enter RACHEL, R.) the thief who stole your money was Matthew Allen. (Exit, L.) Rachel. 0, what do I hear? Matthew suspected No, no, it cannot be. Mr. Layton (comes down R. of SCRAPS), what did he say? What did he say? Whom does he suspect? Scraps (aside). His sister'Twould break her heart. (Aloud.) Hey? You're on the wrong side. (Crosses to R.) I'll go and change this toggery, for I don't feel easy. (Exit, R.) Rachel. Brother Mat suspected! 0, I never thought of that. But I can clear him, I can clear him. But how? By denouncing Charley, my Charley, that I love so dearly? 0, I can never do that. Perhaps he wanted the money for some special service. Perhaps - 0, why should I try to excuse so base a deed? 0, would that I were dead! If I betray Charley, his father will drive nim from the house, and I should never see him again. And, spite of his crime, I love him so dearly! But my brother! He must not suffer for the crime of another, nor will he, for they have no proof. And Charley; he 9F RTOTHER' KREPRRE. L 1 would curse me should I betray him. 0, what shall I do! (Falls on her knees by sofa.) 0, mother, sainted mother I if you watch over your child, guide bhr in this dark hour. (Buries her head in sofa, weeping.) Enter RICHARD, R. Rich. Ah, Shellie! at your devotions. (RACHEL rises suddenly.) Don't let me disturb you. Where are all the good people? Rachel. Good evening, Mr. Carnes. Take a seat. Grace and my aunt will soon appear. Rich. Thank you. (Sits L. of table. RACHEL on lounge.) Has Mat returned yet? Rachel. No, we are expecting him every momrent. I am sorry he could not arrive sooner. Rich. (aside). So am I. I expected to find his coat hanging in the hall. Old Scraps's money-bag is heavy in my pocket and on my conscience. I must get it dis. posed of somewhere about Mat's wardrobe. (Aloud.) Where's Charley, Shellie? Rachel. I don't know. Enter CHARLEY, R. Chas. Nor does she care, Dick. I'm glad to see you. Do you feel better, Shellie? Rachel (turns her back). No, I don't feel better. Chas. Then we must get Aunt Betsey to prescribe for you. (Enter BETSEY.) Here, Aunt Betsey, is another patient for you, Come, Shellie, tell her your symptoms. Betsey. Symptoms I Well, if they're anything like 58 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. those of the last patient you found for me, I prescribe a lunatic asylum at once. How do you do, Mr. Carnes? Rich. Good evening, Miss Benton. How becomingly you are dressed this evening! Your stately personBetsey. Now don't you be a fool. I've heard enough allusion to my personal appearance this evening already to make me sick. (Sits R. of table.) Chas. (aside). Hullo! Scraps must have made a failure. (Aloud.) Did you comfort my friend, Mr. Layton, Aunt Betsey? Betsey. You just bring him here again, that's all. Enter GRACE, L. Grace. Shellie, Shellie, Matthew's come. I heard his step on the walk - and I should know it —(Stops confused.) Why, I didn't know we had company. Good evening, Mr. Carnes. Rich. Good evening, Miss Benton. Grace (aside). Tiresome thing! Just spoiled my meeting Matthew in the hall. (Aloud.) Shellie, why don't you run and meet Matthew? Rachel. My head aches fearfully. (Aside.) How can I meet him? Betsey. Land sakes! He knows the way from cellar to garret. Enter MATTHEW,, R.with coat on his arm, which he throws across chair, R. Mat. Ah, here you all are. Home again, as you see Grace (running to him). Matthew, welcome! Mat. Thank you, my dear (pause), dear friend (Takes her hand.) MY BROTHER'S KEEPER 59 Grace. Well, what success? Mat. The best of success. The cargo of the Elmyra is sold. (Enter MR. BENTON, L.) Good evening, Mr. Benton. I was just telling your daughter my mission was successful. The cargo of the Elmyra has been taken. Mr. B. Indeed. Do you know of anything else that has been taken, Mr. Allen? Mat (surprised). Mr. Allen? To what do you allude, Mr. Benton? Mr. B. Matthew Allen, as you well know, I am a man of very few words. Last night you were left i charge of my warehouse. During the nigtf a bag of gold, placed in a drawer for safe keeping, was abstracted. Where is it? Mat. A bag of gold, belonging t~ Job Layton, stolen? I know nothing about it., Rachel (aside). Why don't C(harley speak? (CHARLEY is in conversation with AUNr BETSEY.) Mr. B. This is strange. You were left in charge of the warehouse. Did you leavw it during the night? Mat. I did. Mr. B. Where did you go.' Mat. That, sir, I cannot tell. I received a note late in the evening from a friend, calling upon me as a friend to assist him. That is all I cat say. It remains for him to clear the mystery. Rachel (aside). O, why don't Charley speak? One word from him, and Matthew is clar. Mr. B. So, sir, you cannot clea the mystery; but I can. You left that place to go to Murphy's billiardroom. You were seen there. This money was left in cc0 f3RT Y 3 ER.OTBEB' (KEEPEV. your charge. You alone were responsible for it; and I charge you with the theft. Mat. Mr. Benton! Grace. Father! Rachel (aside). And there Charley sits as cool as a villain. Why don't he speak? Mr. B. Yes, Matthew Allen, I have trusted you fully. I have believed in your truth and honesty; but the very fact that you quitted that store is proof positive of your guilt. Mat. Mr. Benton, all I have in the world I owe to you. I believe I have not been ungrateful for your kindness. Had I done the base deed of which you accuse me, I could not look you in the face, as I do now, and pronounce your charge false. Rachel (jumping up.) Charley Benton, do you hear? Why don't you speak? Chas. I beg your pardon, Shellie. What's broke I've been having a talk with Aunt Betsey. Rachel. Mat, my brother Matthew, is accused of theft - by your father, too. Chas. That's a serious matter. I say, father, whei is it? Mr. B. Nothing that should be made public. Mat. thew Allen is about to quit my service disgraced. Mat. Disgraced? Mr. B. Yes, disgraced! Everything is against you - your absence from the store, the empty drawer, the missing money-bag - Chas. (aside). Drawer, store, money-bag (Aloud.) I say, Shellie, what's all this? Rachel. And you ask me? Shame, shame, Charles Benton. Chas. Well, confound it! If you won't tell me what it's all about, you'll excuse me if I don't interfere. (Re. tires up.) Mr. B. (to MATTHEW). There is not one circumstance in your favor. Grace. Father, you are wrong. There are a thousand: his good, true life; his zeal in your service; his care for his sister; - all stand out to shield him from suspicion. Mr. B. You, Grace, defend him? Grace. With my life, if need be. I know him to be so good, so true, so noble, that when you turn him from your door, my arm shall be around him, and my voice shall whisper in his ear, " Whither thou goest I go." Mat. Dear, dear Grace! Rachel (aside). Must I learn my duty from her. Mr. B. Never! No daughter of mine shall link her fate with a felon - a thief! Grace. A thief?'Tis false! Rachel. Ay, false, false! And I can prove it. All. You, Shellie? (AUNT BETSEY comes down, L. Situations: MATTHEW, R., GRACE, R. C., RACHEL, C., MR. BENTON, L. C., AUNT BETSEY, L., CHARLEY and RICHARD back by the table, looking on.) Rachel. Yes, I; for I was in the counting-room when that money was taken. My brother is guiltless. He was called to help a friend, as he tells you. I was left alone. I heard a step; blew out the candle. The thief entered, opened the drawer in the table, moved away, and then returned and made a second attempt. I was so frightened that I did not tell my brother. 62 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Mat. That was wrong, Shellie. Rachel. I know it, brother. I have deceived you, and am no more worthy to be called your keeper. But you shall be cleared. (With feeling.) Uncle Abe, sup. pose a young girl had a brother, whom she loved very dearly; a brother, whom she had told her dying mother, should never suffer, when any sacrifice could be made on her part. Suppose she also had a lover, whom she loved very dearly, - very, very dearly, - and she were called unon to sacrifice one or the other, who had committed a crime, what should you advise to do? Mr. B. Save the innocent - if it broke her heart. Rachel. Right, Uncle Abe; you are right, sir. Listen, then. Last night, when that thief came in for the second time, I was on the alert. After he had accomplished his purpose, he struck a match, and as he held it up to light a cigar, I saw his face. Mat. His face, Shellie? Did you know him? Rachel. Know him? (Throws herself into his arms,) Too well, too well.'Twas him. (Pointing.) Charley Benton. All. Charley Benton! (All fall back, showing CHARLEY coolly seated on the table with his arms folded.) Chas. Well, what of it? I was in the store last night, did open the the drawer, and take from itMr. B. The bag of gold? Chas. (coming down.) No, sir, the pitcher's badge, which you so unceremoniously locked up for me. Mr. B. But the money? Chas. I know nothing about it. There was none there when I took the badge, that's certain. MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 63 Mat. So, Charley, your note to me was a blind to get me from the store. Chas. What note? I sent no note. Hang it, what a mysterious time you are having here! Who's the robher, anyhow? Mat. I received a note signed with the name of Charley Benton. Here it is. I thought it my duty to leave the store, as I had left my sister in charge. Chas. And Shellie caught the thief? Rachel. Stop, Charley. Did you take the badge the first or second time you entered the room? Chas. Hang it, Shellie, are you beginning to be suspicious? I entered the store but once. Rachel. And found nothing in the drawer but the badge? Ghas. Not a thing. Rachel. Then there was another. Rich. (aside). I wish I was well rid of this bag. There's Mat's coat in the chair. I can easily slip it into the pocket, and then I'm safe. Mr. B. Yes, there was another; and that other your brother. Grace. Still suspicious, father. Mr. B. Still suspicious; and, until the thief is found, you, Matthew Allen, are suspended from service. iMat. This is very hard, Mr. Benton. Mr. B. You should not have left that store had fifty notes been sent you. Had the building been in flames you should not ilave disobeyed my orders. Rich. (who has crept over to chair, R. Aside). Now, then, to fasten his guilt. (-4 M-8' BROT1HER? KEEPERF Mat. Very well, sir. I have tried to do my duty, If I have failed, my heart, my conscience acquit me of blame or guilt. BRich. (takes money-bag from his breastpocket. Aside). All right. Now, then. (About to place it in MATTHEW'S coat pocket. SCRAPS enters suddenly, R., in his old cos. tume, his basket in both hands.) Scraps. Hey? (Holds out basket. RICHARD starts back, and drops the bag into basket.) You're on the wrong side, Mr. Carnes, the wrong side. Mr. B. Job Layton, what are you doing? Scraps. Recovering my money. Here it is. (Comes down, c.) Here is the money (showing basket), and here the thief. (Seizing RICHARD by wrist.) Mr. B. Richard Carnes? You are mistaken, Job. Scraps. Now don't be a fool, Abel. I knew when I placed that money in your hands it would be found in the possession of Richard Carnes. He's a notorious gambler; that I know. He frequents Murphy's billiard-rooms; he was there last night; wrote a note to Matthew Allen, and sent it to the store last night; then entered the store with a false key - 0, I know him! I've proof enough that he committed this theft to put him in prison, and he knows it. Hey, Mr. Carnes? Mr. B. Richard Carnes, what have you to say? Rich. Nothing: if you take the word of that ragamuffin, I am a thief; but this little affair was arranged for an entirely different purpose. It has failed, and I am the loser. I am a gentleman's son; my father will make all losses good. As for the business, I have grown tired of it, and want a change; so, with your permission, I will MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. 65 throw up my situation. If I am wanted, you will find me at home. I shall not run away. Good evening, Mr. Benton; good evening, all. (At door, a.) A cursed stupid mess I've made of it. (Exit, R.) Scraps. Well, that's cool. Chas. Decidedly. Shall I stop him, father? Mr. B. No; let him go. If he feels one half the shame I feel for my share in this business, he is sufficiently punished. (Crosses to MATTHEW.) Matthew, I beg your pardon. I have been hasty. Knowing your worth, I should have cut my tongue out ere I made the charge I did. Mat. Let it pass, Mr. Benton. Circumstances were against me. I should not have left your store; and the fear of compromising your son kept me silent. Mr. B. And you (to CHARLEY), what have you to say for your share in this? Chas. Me? Well, I like that! It strikes me I'm the martyr - suspected of being a thief, and by Shellie, too. Rachel. 0 Charley, forgive me. I thought I was right. It was my brotherChas. 0, well, if a brother is to stand between you and me, the sooner I claim the privileges of a husband the better. Betsey. Shellie, that man in the ragged coat! Bless my soul, it's him- the man that saved me from the runaway horse. itachel. Why, so it is. Strange I should not have recognized him. Betsey. Who is he? What's his name? 4 66 MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. Chas. Why, don't you know? That's Job Layton, Esq. Betsey. What, the lunatic? Well, if I'd have known he was my preserver - Mr. Layton, Mr. Layton? Scraps. H-ey? You're on the wrong side. (Tuins his back to her.) Chas. It's no use, Aunt Betsey. You've lost your chance. Grace. And now, father, where is the new partner you were to present this evening? Mr. B. He is here. (Places his hand on MATTHEW'S shoulder.) Matthew Alien, for your long service, for your true, earnest zeal, for your honesty and value, I offer you a partnership. alit. Me? 0, Mr. Benton, you are my best friend, but I cannot accept. iA.B. B. Not accept? Mat. No, sir, for I have already formed a partner. ship with another - this dear girl. Grace. Yes, father, we have formed a partnership for life. Mr. B. I see; and, though I have not been asked, I will give my consent. Have your partner, but he must also be mine, under the firm of Abel Benton & Son. Chas. Well, it strikes me I shall be left out in the c)ld. PMr. B. Your turn shall come next, with Matthew's consent. Mat. Anything you wish, sir. Rachl. But what's to become of me? Ohas. Now don't you fret about that, Shellie. Grace MY BROTHER'S KEEPER. ( is going into the new firm. Let's you and I form an op position. Rachel. And so Miss Grace is to usurp my place, Well, I suppose I must bear it. Scraps. Shellie, that scamp of a Charley wants a keeper. I know him. IHe's a rascal —jumps into the water, you know. Marry him, and watch him. Rachel. What do you say, Uncle Abe? Mr. B. You have my full consent. Rachel. And you, brother Mat? Mat. I know no one more worthy of my dear sister than Charley Benton. Rachel. There's my hand, Charley. And as I have tried to be true to my brother, so may I be true to you. If I have failed in my duty there, it was for love of you. Mlat. Nay, nay, Sunshine; you have been ever true The happiness of this hour I owe to you alone. Rachel. Say, rather, to our dear, trusty, watchful old rag-picker. Scraps. Hey? You're on the wrong side. Earthly friends may do much to guide and guard each other, but Justice, Love, and Truth are servants of a higher Power, who, in the darkest hour, is ever the sure, safe, reliani keeper. Disposition of Characters. R. C. L SCRArS. GRACE. CHARLEY. MATTHEW. RACHEL. Us. BENTON. BETSEY Always Get the Best. 50 of the Choicest setections in the Reading Club and Handy Speaker, Edited by GE0ORGE M. BABER. i Price, cloth, 50 cents; paper, 16 cents. CONTENTS. The Red Jacket ~. George Mf. Baker. Old Age... Mahmoud.. Leigh Hunt. 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Carl Schurz. The Bricklayers... IH. Barnes. A Stranger in the Pew... Iarper's Mag. The Mistletoe-Bough.. Bayley. The Puzzled Census-Taker.... Sae. The Voices at the Throne... I. Westwood. Hans Breitmann's Party. Charles G. Lelack Rob Roy MacGregor. Walter Scott. Dcr Drummer... Charles F. Adams. The Yankee and the Dutchman's Dog Popping the Question The Bumpkin's Courtship The Happy Life... Sir Henry Wott At the Soldiers' Graves.. Robert Collyer. Nobody there. Anonymous. The Factory-Girl's Diary. Morton. In the Tunnel o " Jones" *. The Whistler.. "Good and Better". Jakie on Watermelon Pickle The Old Methodist's Testimony Sold by all booksellers and newsdealers, and sent by mail, potpaid, on receipt of price. LEE and SHEPARD, Publishers, Boston. tou wll find one of your Favorites among 50 of the Choisef Selections in the Reading Club and Handy Spea& Edited by GEORGE M. BAKES. i 0 1 Pre~ice, clot/', 60 cents; paper, 15 cents. CONTENTS. The Rescue Jo, o..on Brownjo.h. The Pickwickians on Ice... Dickens. A Picture.As. I.rs..A. Binglhan. Tobe's Monutent o Elizabeth Kilhiac, The Two Anchors B.. 1. H. Stoddard. The Old Ways and the New... John If. Yates, By the Alma River.. L. i.s MJloch, Trial Scene from "Merchant of Venice" s haklspeare. The Sisters.. JoGhn. oV ittier, Fartm-Yard Song. The Fortune-Hunter. O John G. Saxe, Cr.ring a Cold... Marck Twain. In the Bottom Drawer Two Irish Idyls,...A Alf'ed Perceval Gcwvas Over the Rivrer. Priest. The Modest Cousin.., Sheridan Knowles, Biddy's Troubles. The Man with a Cold in his Head Harry and I. The ShadowO on the Wall The Little Puzzler L-.. ara T Jr.. B. Pa. A Traveller's Evening Song.. MAdrs. Hemans. Calling a Boy in the Morning. Cooking and Courting, ~ Tom to SNed. A Tragical Tale of the Tropics, The Paddock Elms.. B. Woolf The Bobolink.... Aldine. Toothache,c The Opening of the Piano.., Atlantic JAonthy, Press On..'rk PBenjamin The Beauty of Youth.e. Theodore Par.'er, Queen Mab.o. omeo and (Jithei A Militia General -.s Thomas CorwOa*.ddress of Spottycuf - o Our Visitor, and what he came for,' What's the Matter with that Noie? ". Our Fat Contribvefr, Workers and Thinkers.. Ruskin.'he Last Ride..... NVora Per'y, raby Atlas. Possession e Owen l(feredtlh. hrere is no Death... Sir E. Beulvt,er Lybo. [he Learned Negro., o Congregationaliet. Vearer, my God, to Thee o Sarah F. Adams. g Short Sermon,.. Not b.y a flard-Shell Bao Toin' Home To-da.y.,. O.... C'aietan.'he Broken Pitcher.,, Anonynotus k Baby's Soliloquy. o t'he Double Sacrifice a.... Atrto.h r I,~liosam Austin runday Morning... Georgse A, Baker, Jun. the Q~uaker Meetinrg....Sael.oier. by ail hbooksCle'y ane, nswedeaters, or sent b? mrf sf on receipt 0Q or "LE & SHEPA RD, PublisALes, Boston You will find the Piece you are looking for among 50 of the Choicest Selections in the Edited by GEORGE M. BAKER. 1 Price, cloth, 50 cents; paper, 15 cents. CONTENTS. Fra Giacomo.... Robert Buchanano Boab Cratchit's Christmas-Dinner.. ickens. The First Snow-Fall.. Janes Russell Lowell, the Countess and the Serf.... Sheridan Knowles. Aurelia's Unfortunate Young Man. lcMark Twain. Losses.... Francis Browne. Mad Luce.... All the Year Round. The Solemn Book-Agent.. Detroit Free Press. What the Old Man said.. Alice Robbins. Bone and Sinew and Brain... John Boyle O'Reilly. Pat and the Oysters. Twilight..... Spanish Gypsy. The Singer..... Alice Williams. Speech of the Hon'Pervese 7er^-bodl on the Acquisition of Cuha Bulnker Hill.... George t. Calvert. Two Births.... Charles J. Sprague. The Old Fogy Man.. Auction Mad.... The Wedding-Fee....... Streeter. Schneider's Tomatoes. Charles F. Adams, The Wolves.... J. T. Trowbridge. The Ballad of the Oystermar o ~. Oliver Wendell lfolmes, The Deck-Hand and the Mul- o A Lay of Real Life.... Tom Ifood. itiding DIown.. _. ora Perry. The Minute-men of'75.. George WJilliam c r tis. Uncle Reuben's Baptism,.Vicksbury Ilerald. How Persimmons took Cah ob der PB'h. St. Nicholas. The Evils of Ignorance.., orace Mlann. Scenes from the School of Reform., Thomas i3orton. Ambition... enry Clay. The Victories of Peace... Charles Sumnner, For Love The ilower-Mission, junior.. Earl Marble. The Sons of New England... on. George B. Loring. The Jonesvilie Singin' Quire. M~.. 1 Opinions and Betsey Bz^j The Last Tilt...... He1s.-y?. iIirst. The Burial of the Dane e.. len-y IHt ard Brownell Appeal in Behalf of American Liberty Story. The Church of the Best Licks... Edwa,- l ggleston. The Roman Soldier. Destruction of Her- A therstose. Temnperance..... dell,iiips. Roast Pig. A Bit of Lamb. Charles Lamb. Sirilia Similibus. Two Loves and a Life. ~. William Svu"'^yr. The Recantation of Galileo... Francis E. wraledq,% Mosquitoes... The Law of Kindness; or, The Old Wo- li,:o.Bsritt. man's Railway Signal. Ode.... Geore Sennoit. Mr. Stiver's Horse... The Danbu-zw News Mia-. If you are looking for Something New, you will find it amonb 50 of the Choicest Selections in the Reading Club and Handy Speaker. Edited by GEORGE M. B.KER. Price, cloth, 50 cents; paper, 15 cents. CONTENTS. the Tramp.... George 31. Baker. Joan of Arc.D... eQuincey. Decoration... T. W. Ifigginson. Minot's Ledge... Fitzjames O'Brien. Scene from 6" The Hunchback "... Sheridan Knowles. Widder Green's Last Words.. l'he Cane-Bottomed Chair... Thackeray. The House-Top Saint.... rs. J. D. Chaplin. Tom.... Constance Fenimore Wolw. The Song of the Dying My Neighbo.'s Baby "' The Paper Don't Say" The Post-Boy. r. rC. J. Despard. What is a Minority?.. J. B. Gough. Robert of Lincoln... Bryant. Daddy Worthless.... Lizzie TV. Champney. Zenobia's Defence... William, Ware. William Tell.... Mary Maloney's Philosophy.. Philadelphia Bulletin. Custer's Last Charge. F.rederick Whittaker. Mother's Fool... The Little Black Eyed Rebel... Wiln Carleton. "' The Palace o' the King" o. William Mitchell. Grandfather. Theodore Parker. " Business" in Mississippi.. Chronicle, zAuegsta, Ga, The Indian's Claim.... E verett. The Battle-Flag of Sigurd. The Way Astors are Made,. J. 3. Bailey. Mr. Watkins celebrates.. Detroit Press. The Palmetto and the Pine.. r Irs. Virginia L. Frenche Pip's Fight. Dickens. Cuddle Doon.... Alexander Anderson The Hot Roasted Chestnut.. J. Ed. lilliken. St. John the Aged... The Bell of Atri..Longfellow. Mr. O'Hoolahan's Mistake The Little Hero. The Village Sewing-Society. He Giveth His Beloved Sleep The Dignity of Labor... Rev. Newrmann yfalL. A Little Shoe "The Penny Ye Meant to qi'e"... H. H. A Question the Cobbler's Secret The Lost Cats. The Pride of Battery B.... Gassaway. Leedle Yaw cob Strauss.. Charles F. Adams, Two Portraits. Elder Sniffles' Courtship. Goom' Somewhere.. 1. Quad. Sold by all booksellers and new.,dealers, and sent by mail, postpaid, ~ receipt of price. LEE & SHEPARD, Publishers, Boston. the Freshest, Brightest, and Best, are the 50 Choicest Selections in the Reading Club and Handy Speaker Edited by GEORGE M. BAKER Price, cloth, 50 cents; ptape-, 16 cents. CONTENTS. The Ballad of Ronald Clare.. Thomrs S. Collier. The Scotchman at the Play... " Mansie Wauch." The Dead Doll... agaraet Vandegrift. A Charge with Prince Rupert o T. W. Higginson. An Irish Wake. The Honest Deacon Tact and Talent..L. ond on Atlas. The Two Glasses Whistling in Heaven.. l.arper's Magazine. Noble ]Revenge. Dot Baby off Mine. (By permission). Charles Follen A-l amfo The Amateur Spelling-Match. Earl Marble. Why Biddy and Pat got Married, R. R Stoddard. Art-Matters in Indiana.. Miss Edith helps Things along.. Bret ffarte. The Flood and the Ark. Not Dead, but Risen Ballad of a Baker.. Five... Uncle Remus' Revival Hymn A Mysterious Disappearance.. Charles Dicker,weick Papet An Indignation-Meeting. Something Spilt From the Sublime to the Ridiculous l "'tis but a Step".. Scene from " The Marble Heart".. Charles Selby. The Seven Ages... Shakspeare. A Watch that " wanted cleaning." T J. Fields. (By permission). "'ired Mothers.. Good-by.... Frank Foxcroft''" One of the Boys " The Bridge... T. L. ongJellow A Rhine Legend. Curtis Guild. The Little Shoes did it Burdock's Goat. Faithful Little Peter. Blue and Gray Mollie, or Sadie? Butterwick's Weakness. Between the Lines. Somebody's Mother The Ballad of Constance.. William Winter. Failed.. The Canteen. C.. G. alpine (XMils ('RcVi, A Biessing on the Dance.. Irwin Russell.,An Exciting Contest. The Last Redoubt.. Alfred Austin. " If We Knew".. Scene from "London Assurance". Boucicault.'The Kaiser's Feast.. Sideways... The Best Yet. 50 Rare Selections. Reading Olub and Handy Speaker. Edited by GEORGE M. BAKER. Pri-ce, cloth, 50 cents; paper, 15 cents. CONTENTS. oount Eberhard's Last Foray...... Thos. S. Collier. rammy's Prize...... Deaf and Dumb............ Anna F. Burnham. The Changed Cross..... Virginius to the Roman Army...... h K. ellogg. The Fountain of Youth........ leekiah Butterworth. They Met.............. Clerical Wit....... Greeley's Ride.............lark Twain. Der Shoemaker's Poy.... The Sergeant of the Fiftieth.... The Fan Drill........... Spectator. Warning to Woman...... The Cavalry Charge........ A. Durivage. Widow Stebbins on Homceopathy...... Charles F. Adams. The Fight at Lookout.......... Cary, Jun. The Well-Digger............ John G. Saxe. Behind Time........... Freeman Hunt. A Miracle............... Charles II. Webber. Weaving the Web...... The Great Future.......... George F. HIoar. A Christmas Carol..... "Them Yankee Blankits"....... Samuel IV. Small. Jim Lane's Last Message......... Sherman D. Richardso' One Touch of Nature..... A Disturbance in Church......... Maax Adeler. The Palmer's Vision............. G. Iolland. A "Sweeter Revenge"...... The Farmer's Story........ David Hill. Paddy O'Rafther......... Samuel Lover. The Fireman's Prayer..... Russell If. ConwelL. Down with the Heathen Chinee!...... Nlew- York Sun. John Chinaman's Protest......... l.. F. D. The Sweet Singer of Michigan.. Ten Years After............ Kate Putnam Osgood. Putty and Varnish........... Josh Billings. Nationality......... Rufus Choate. Tacking Ship off Shore......... Walter Mitchel. Immortality........... Phillips Brooks. Mr. Coville Proves Mathematics....... J. Bailey. Blind Nedc............ Irwin Russell. The Benediction.......... Franqois Coppee. " Conquered at Last".......... Ma.ria L. Eve. The Ship-Boy's Letter..... An Irish Love-Letter......... George -. Baker. Reserved Power......'alk about Shooting. The King's Kiss............ Nora Perry. Joe's Bespeak...... A. Disturbed Parent........... Sold by all booksellers and newsdealers, and sent by mail, postpaid, oa receipt of price. LEE & SHEPARD, Publishers. Boston. Yoe will find nothing but rare Gems in th W', oAe $.leaStieI in so l Reading-Olub and Handy Speaker. Edited by GEORGE M. BAKER. P^rce, cloth, 50 cents; paper, 15 cents. CONTENTS. A Royal Princess..... Christina G. Rossed. A Reminiscence.H. H.. H. Hooker, D.,t The Last Hymn...... Marianne FarringAMms The Fool's Prayer.... Atlantic. The Dead Student.... Will Carleton, Greatest Walk on Record... Drawing Water..... This Side and That...... George Macdon4f Civil War.A....Anonymous. A Modern Sermon.... That Calf........ Phabe Cary. The New Dixie.... L. C. The National Game....... Unrle Mellick Dines with his Master... J. R. Eggleston. Mlrud's Misery....... San Benito.. Helen Mf. Gier How Randa went over the River.... C. C. Coffn. The Ladies..... ark Twain. Two Fishers...... Harper's Weekl. Left Alone at Eighty...... " Dashing Rod," Trooper.S.. Conant Foster, Orient Yourself...... Horace Mann. Rhymes at Random., The Carpenter's Wooing, and the Sequel.. Yawcob Straus. 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You will find both Wit and Sentiment in the 50 Choice Selections in the Reading-Olub and Handy Speaker, Edited by GEORGE M. BAKER. Price, cloth, 50 cents; paper, 15 cents. CONTENTS. The Defence of Lucknow..... Tennyson. Paul Clifford's Defence..... Bulwer. The Outlaw's Yarn... Michael Lynch. Labor is Worship.... rancis S. Osgood. The Legend of the White Hand. Lucy Wade Herrick. Two Dreams.... H. People will Laugh. " Christianos ad Leones i "... Francis A. Durivage. Ballad of the Bell-Tower.... Margaret J. Preston. A Sermon for the Sisters.. Irwin Russell. Mrs. Brown at the Play.... Arthur Sketchley. Dutch Security. From One Stand-point.. F.. Butts. The Captive. Henry Phillips, Jr. The Peril of the Mines. Aunt Phillis's Guest. Wm. C. Gannett. Annie's Ticket Along the Line........ Irwin Russell. The Divorce Feast. The Indian Warrior's Defence The Farmer and the Barrister... Horace Smith. Yankee Courtship London Zoological Gardens Apples- A Comedy.... Blackwood's Magazine. 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