There's only one maid, and Polly's her name,Of my love, my heart, she surely makes game;But some time or other, so sorry she'll be,She'll sigh for her Bijah, the bear of Old T.
There's only one maid, and Polly's her name,Of my love, my heart, she surely makes game;But some time or other, so sorry she'll be,She'll sigh for her Bijah, the bear of Old T.
Polly.Indeed, I won't.
There's plenty of fish in the sea, Mr. B.,Who'd bite at my hook with the greatest of glee:You think, as you've writ, sir, my heart is your own,That over your absence I sigh and I moan,Indeed, I do not, sir; pray hear me aright,I wouldn't give that (snaps fingers), sir, to be Mrs. Bright.
There's plenty of fish in the sea, Mr. B.,Who'd bite at my hook with the greatest of glee:You think, as you've writ, sir, my heart is your own,That over your absence I sigh and I moan,Indeed, I do not, sir; pray hear me aright,I wouldn't give that (snaps fingers), sir, to be Mrs. Bright.
Bijah.Ha, ha, Polly, that wee brain of yours isn't an idle one. It won't do for us to separate, but make a stock company and spring our poetic effusions upon the public together. (EnterRoger,without disguise.)
Roger.Is Miss Dorothy at home?
Bijah.Why—Mr. Roger here?
Polly.Land of living! Where did you come from?
Roger.Was marching by; could not resist the temptation of a stolen glance at Dorothy.
Bijah.Have just given her your letter, and she is now writing one in answer.
Roger.But I must see her.
Bijah.Then I won't wait for that answer. And, as I know the sensations of a fluttering heart, I'll step out and let you flutter alone.
Roger.All right, Bijah. Where are you going?
Bijah.Back to camp. I've had a taste of Polly's pies. That's joy enough for one day.
Roger(giving him papers). Take these to the captain, and I will soon follow.
Bijah.All right. (Takes flag.) Polly, should I on the cold earth lie, remember this—I loved your pie.
(ExitBijah.)
Polly.Pity sakes alive! Mr. Roger, how shall I break the news to Miss Dorothy?
Roger.Your wits were always lively, Polly. I shall leave it to you.
Polly.Dear me, she may come at any moment. Here, hide behind this. (Rogergoes behind portière,C.)
Polly.Oh, dear, every idea in my brain is playing tag with the other. Such a horrid sensation I feel, as if some one had proposed and I had said “No,” when I meant “Yes.” (Raises eyes.) Shade of my departed grandsire, aid me. (Draws herself up, makes to doorR.,exits calling, “Miss Dorothy, Miss Dorothy.”)
Roger(drawing portière aside). Oh, how good to be in my own home again. They say that stolen goods are always the sweetest; one look and kiss from Dorothy will indeed be worth the stealing—hark, they are coming. (Hides. EnterDorothyandPolly.)
Dor.What is the matter, Polly? From the vigorous manner in which you called my name, I should think the house was on fire, or besieged by burglars.
Polly(excited). Hush, Miss Dorothy, it ain't a fire—it's worse—it's burglars.
Dor.(screams). Oh!
Polly.Don't, Miss Dorothy; some one entered the house while you were in your room, and has stolen something.
Dor.Stolen something! What?
Polly.Something that belongs to you. It is very precious.
Dor.(looks at hand). My rings are all here.
Polly.Oh,—no—not that, something worse; (loud whisper) it's your heart.
Dor.Polly, tell me instantly, what do you mean?
Polly(excited). I mean—I mean—no, I don't mean, yes—I do—
Dor.Polly, if you can talk sensibly, pray do, and not as if your brain were congested.
Polly.Indeed, Miss Dorothy, my brain is all right—but look (mysteriously) behind that portière.
Dor.What is it? You make my very blood run cold.
Polly.Behind that portière (goes to it, draws it aside, disclosingRoger), is—is—
Dor.Roger! (Rushes into his arms.)
Roger.My own dear Dorothy.
Dor.Oh, Polly, you frightened me so.
Polly.Thank heaven, that's over—it's worse than having a tooth pulled.
Roger.You did nobly, Polly. Will you tell Mrs. Graham that I am here?
Polly.Indeed I will. (ExitPolly,L.)
Dor.Oh. Roger, I have wanted you so much.
Roger.What do you think of me? my lonely hours so far away from you all.
Dor.But where have you been? Tell me, Roger.
Roger.Hush, Ruth is coming. I will tell you both together.
(EnterRuth.)
Ruth.Roger, my dear brother. (Embrace.) Why this long silence? this uniform? What does it all mean?
(RuthandDorothyboth seated.Roger'shand onRuth'sshoulder, the other holdingDorothy'shand.)
Roger.It means, dear sister, that my heart responded to my country's call, and I could not stay away.
Ruth.But why did you not confide in us? we all believed in your innocence.
Roger.All?
Ruth(looks down). Yes, all; for at heart the colonelbelieves in your honor. He must, but his friend Newcomb has so woven his influence about him, that the poison has done its work. Oh, Roger, that man, how I despise and fear him.
Roger.And well you may. Never mind, Ruth, some day my name will stand without a blemish, and the colonel will be made to forget his doubts. Now, I shall serve my country with my heart and soul, believing and trusting that justice in good time will right my wrongs.
Colonel(outside). Yes, major, a capital plan.
Ruth.The colonel! he must not see you. I fear he may forget that you are my brother.
Roger.Never mind, Ruth, his words cannot hurt me.
(EnterColonelleaning upon arm ofPotts,who carries theColonel'scloak and hat.)
Col.Ruth, dear, I am quite myself again. The major's active brain has helped to clear my cobwebbed intellect, and our united forces have conceived a most brilliant scheme. (Turns; seesRoger;sternly.) Roger Carruth, what are you doing here?
Roger.Calling upon my sister and my fiancée.
Col.And do you think, sir, that I, their only protector, will allow one whose name is sullied to hold an interview with them?
Ruth(goes toColonel). Gordon, you forget that you are speaking to my brother.
Dor.(goes toRoger). And please remember, Gordon, that this man I love and honor above all others.
Col.Stop, I say. In my own house, I will speak my mind. Roger Carruth, leave this house. All here bear honored names. We do not associate with dishonest men.
Ruth(sobbing). Gordon, how can you be so cruel?
Roger.Colonel Graham, you forget to whom you are speaking. We once called ourselves brothers; that tie remains. We shall both fight for our country's honor. Mine will be a double duty. My good name shall stand again, and you, who spurn me now, shall live to crave my pardon. Farewell, Dorothy. (ExitRoger,C.)
Ruth.Gordon, you have broken my heart.
Dor.You call yourself a soldier. If I were your country, I would disown you.
Col.Hush, Ruth, don't condemn me. Dorothy, I have done what seemed my duty.
Dor.There are some duties it is wiser to overlook. (ColonelandRuthstand talking together;DorothydragsPottsdown front.)
Dor.Pinky, what do you think of all this?
Potts.A downright dirty piece of business, but don't blame the colonel. Newcomb is at the bottom of this.
Dor.Newcomb? Oh, yes. Pinky, what do you think? I overheard him talking to one of the colonel's men, and he's plotting (whispers) murder.
Potts.What! Murder? Who is the victim?
Dor.The colonel. That shot in the back was a first attempt, and he is going to try it again.
Potts.Not by a large majority.
Dor.You must help him in some way.
Potts.I'll do my best; and if Newcomb isn't “laid out” before we're done with him, my name isn't Pinkerton Potts.
Dor.Find Roger; he will help you. He's too loyal to harbor the Colonel's words when his life is in danger.
(Sound of fife and drum. Troops pass window, as at opening.Pollyenters, goes to window.)
Col.Come, Ruth, my cloak and hat.
Ruth(helps him with cloak). Must you leave me? (Music.)
Col.(takingRuthin his arms). Ruth, dearest, you are a soldier's wife, remember. Forgive my harsh words to Roger, but by the fireside or on the battle-field, our honor must be upheld. When the bugle calls me to active service, with heart and soul to lead my men in battle, it calls you to be brave and to conquer all fears, giving inspiration to those who march to meet the foe, and waiting with patient love and hope our safe return. (KissesRuth:embracesDorothy.) Good-by, Dorothy. Come, major. (ExitColonel.)
Ruth.Major, watch over him and bring him back to me.
Potts.I will do my best, Mrs. Graham.
Dor.Good-by, major; don't forget the sacred trust imposed upon you. Care for them both. (ExitMajor.)
(Ruthfalls intoDorothy'sarms.)
Dor.Ruth, dear, be brave. Roger will be near Gordon, I know. He has suffered much, but he will forget his own wrongs. We have faith in him and know him to be steadfast and true. Some time the world will know it. Keep hope alive in your heart, and believe with me, that Roger will some day make that shot in the back rebound, and the traitor will meet his just deserts.
(Tableau.RuthinDorothy'sarms.Pollyat window waving handkerchief.)
CURTAIN.
SceneI.—Encampment of Union troops at Harrison's Landing one week later; time, noon. View of James River at back.Colonel Graham'stent,L.C.,opening facing audience. TreesR.andL.;fallen logR.Campstool outside tent; inside, table, stools, couch. In one corner, banjo; old army coat, hanging. Sentinel pacing at back. Soldiers grouped about; wooden tableC.,at which are seated soldiers playing cards.Kilroyon logR.;Bijah Brightstanding back of table. Soldiers laugh as curtain is raised.
Bijah.Wal, that's a true story, and don't you forget it.
Kilroy.Faith, it's an injy rubber memory yees have any way. An' divil a bit does it trouble yees to stretch it. Be jabers! it makes me dhry to listen to yees. (Drinks from canteen, then looks at watch.) Shure, it's toime I was on watch. (ExitsR.)
(EnterColonel GrahamandMajor Potts.Soldiers rise, salute, and disperse.)
Bijah(down front). Ha, ha! I've given them chaff enough for one day. It will give them something to talk about and keep them out of mischief. (ExitR.;Colonel Grahamseats himself on stool outside tent.)
Col.Ah, major, already new life fills my veins; to know that I am with my men again. That seven days' fight is over at last; poor fellows! how many have answered their last call, and lie with white faces upturned to the sky; only the heavy dew for a winding-sheet; while the wounded are waiting for transports to take them back to Washington.
Potts.Those were hard days, colonel; but wemustsucceed in the end. When we have gained the victory, some of those brave fellows, whose souls are as white as their faces, will, if they can look down upon their country, rejoice that they gave their lives for so glorious a cause.
(Guardapproaches with sentinel.)
Sent.Halt! who comes there?
Guard.Friend.
Sent.Advance, friend, and give the countersign.
(Guardgives the countersign in whisper;Kilroytakes sentinel's place. The relieved sentinel falls behind guard and marches off.)
Major.Any orders, colonel?
Col.No, major, go amongst the men if you will, and speak words of encouragement; I shall be my old self to-morrow. (Pottssalutes, and exit pastKilroy,who salutes.Colonelenters tent and writes at table.Kilroy,pacing to and fro, suddenly starts and lowers musket.)
Kil.Halt! who comes there? (No answer; paces again.) Plague take it! only the wind. (Peteappears, crawling on hands and knees.)
Kil.Halt! who comes there? Advance, and give the countersign.
Pete(rising and coming forward). 'Deed I can't sign nuffin, massa.
Kil.(dragging him forward). Well, by the powers, if it ain't a shmall nagur.
Pete.'Deed, massa, I done mean no harm; I's scared blue, I is.
Kil.Blue, is it? faith it must be navy blue thin, wid a coat of tan outshide it. Phat are yees doing here?
Pete.I's only come to find my mammy.
Kil.Foind yees mammy. It's a foine place yees come to luk for her; p'raps yees thinks she's a bowld sojer by in petticoats, ha, ha!
Pete.Please, massa, I tought maybe, when she runned away, der Union men would be good to her, and let her stay wid dem.
Kil.Bliss his heart, a good bit of faith he has thin, and Patrick Kilroy is the last man, though he has an Irish heart, that would lit any harm come to this shmall spal-peen. Corporal of the guard, post four.
(EnterCorporal.)
Kil.(with hand onPete'sshoulder). Look here, sir. See what I've found crossing the line. Shure it's a bit of ould Africa.
Corp.All right, I'll show him to the colonel. (Kilroyresumes march;CorporalleadsPetetoColonel'stent and salutes.)
Col.Well, what is it?
Corp.A contraband discovered crossing the lines.
Col.Very well, leave him to me.
(Corporalsalutes and exit.)
Col.(coming out of tent). My fine fellow, what is your name?
Pete.Dey neber done gib me one, massa, only Pete.
Col.How old are you?
Pete(scratching head). Dunno, 'specs I'se purty old; I'se had heaps of fun.
Col.Where did you come from?
Pete(points across river). Ober dere. Powerful hard time I'se had too, massa. I'se runned away.
Col.Why did you come here?
Pete.Ole massa, he sold my brudder, an' I jest feared he'd make me gwine too. An' I knowed der Union men was heaps good to de poor niggers, an' I tought p'raps yer might tell me whar my mammy is.
Col.No, Pete, my boy, I don't know where your mammy is. (Puts hand onPete'sshoulder.) What are you going to do?
Pete(scratching head). Dunno! (Thinks a moment, then looks brightly intoColonel'sface.) 'Specs I should jes lub to stay wid you.
Col.(seating himself on stool, outside tent). Stay with me? What could you do?
Pete.I can brack yer boots, massa. An' oh, massa Colonel, I do so lub a horse! Let me take care ob yours. I can handle 'em, massa, if dey be eber so debblesome. Please jes try me; an' I do eberyting yer axes me, sho's yer born.
Col.I havn't a horse, Pete; but you look like a pretty good boy. I think I can trust you. Yes, I will give you a trial.
Pete.Yer really means it? (Colonelnods assent.) Ki-yi! (Turns somersaults.)
Col.Ha, ha! I'll make you my bodyguard.
Pete(perplexed). I ain't got no uniform, massa; 'specs I needs a sword for dat.
Col.That is a ragged coat you have on for this time of year. (Goes into tent and brings out old army coat with gold stripes and buttons). Here, put this on. You won't grow to it this year (laughs), but it is better than nothing.
Pete(delighted; changes coat and walks about, admiring himself). I jes wish my ole mammy see me now, she'd be proud, she'd be.
Col.Pete, you are to take good care of everything that belongs to me; and some day, when the war is over, we will go North and try to find your mammy.
Pete.Has you a mammy, Massa Colonel?
Col.No, Pete; she died long ago; but a dear wife and sister are praying for a safe return.
Pete.Massa Colonel, I'll do jes de bery bes I knows.
Col.Well said, Pete. Now go into my tent and put it in order.
Pete.All right, massa. (Salutes and enters tent; enterPottsandBijah.)
Col.Ah, major! Whom have we here?
Potts(salutes). Bijah Bright, the standard-bearer of your regiment.(Bijahsalutes.)
Col.A grave duty, Mr. Bright. May it not be trodden beneath your feet.
Bijah.Wal, I guess not, colonel: not while this right arm is strong. Jest feel that muscle.
Col.Ha, ha! There's no doubt about that, or your heart either.
Bijah.Only one corner reserved; the rest belongs to my country.
Col.And may I ask who possesses so great a treasure?
Bijah.Why, don't you know? My Polly, your Polly.
Col.My Polly? Ah, I see. You mean Polly Primrose. Mr. Bright, you are to be congratulated; she's a treasure.
Bijah.Don't be in a hurry with good wishes, sir. She's on the wing, and my shot has not yet brought her down.
Col.On the anxious seat, are you? (Giving hand toBijah.) I can at least wish you success.
Bijah(salutes). Thank you, sir.
Col.Major, if you see a small darky about here, it is all right. He crossed the lines, and I will take care of him.
Potts.Very well, sir. He shall not be molested. (PottsandBijahsalute asColonelexits past guard, who salutes;Majorseats himself on end of logR.;Bijahwalks up and down.)
Potts.But tell me more of this Newcomb, Bijah. What can be his motive in planning the colonel's death?
Bijah.Wal, before Mr. Roger's sister married Colonel Graham, Newcomb was all-fired gone on her. I know, for I was about Baltimore at the time and heard no end of gossip. You see, Mrs. Graham didn't take to him, and snubbed him on all occasions. By Jiminy, wasn't he mad! The whole truth of the matter is, he's bound to be revenged, and takes what's nearest and dearest. He was the means of the colonel'sinjury, and I'm scared blue for fear that he will try it again. Roger Carruth has his eye on him, for he has a double debt to pay. (Peteheard playing banjo inside tent.)
Potts.What's this? (Goes to tent and bringsPete,holding banjo, down stage;Bijahfollows.) Who are you?
Pete.Please; massa, I's only Pete.
Potts.Where did you come from?
Pete.Ober dar, massa, and de colonel he's gwine to let me stay wid him.
Potts.Well, give us a tune.
Pete(salutes). Deed, massa, dis yer belongs to de colonel; 'specs he wouldn't like to hab me gib yer dat.
Potts.Yes, he will; I can answer for that.
Pete.All right, massa. I'll play de bes I know.
Potts.Good, and here's a quarter for inspiration.
(Petesalutes, takes coin, and seats himself on floorC.Pottssits on camp-stool;Peteplays and sings a negro melody;Soldiersappear and group at back, listening.)
Potts.Bravo, bravo! (Soldiersapplaud, then gradually disperse.) I tell you what, Bijah, music and a song like that cheer a man up. If we have many more days of dead calm and quiet, I shall be tempted to desert the cause and soothe my troubled spirit with the society of some fair maiden.
Bijah(turnsPetearound; laughs at coat). You're a great one, you are. Where did you get that coat?
Pete.Massa Colonel gib me dat; he's heaps good to me, he is. I takes care ob eberyting, and I's his guard.
Bijah.His what? Guard? Oh, ho! You mean body-guard. (Whistles; aside.) Wal, I vum, here's an idea. We'll work him. (ToPete.) Go back to your work, Pete. (Petegoes into tent.) Major, I have an idea. (Pottscomes down front;Bijahtakes his arm.)
Potts.Isn't it rather dangerous to give it away?
Bijah.How can we look out for the colonel? We can't always be at his side, or he will suspect something. He must not be warned, his health won't stand that. That small specimen of black humanity calls himself the colonel's guard; body-guard, he means. Now, why can't he be warned of the colonel's danger, and I'll trust him for the rest? He's mightily taken with the colonel, and you know what a darky's devotion is.
Potts.Bijah, you're a trump! If that is a specimen of your stock of ideas, you are a valuable man. Pete, come here. (Peteruns out of tent.)
Potts.Come here; we wish to talk with you.
Pete.I's all ready, sar; bof years wide open.
Bijah.That's all right. Keep your mouth shut.
Potts.You like the colonel pretty well, don't you?
Pete.Like him, massa? Deed I does. He's heaps good ter me. Look at des yer cloe's.
Potts.You can pay him back for them, if you will.
Pete(putting hands in pockets; turns them wrong side out; looks at them dolefully, then atPotts). Please, massa, I can't gib yer nuffin.
Potts(pattingPeteon back). I don't mean money.
Pete.Does yer mean I can do somefin for him?
Bijah.Yes, that's jest the pint.
Pete.Deed, I'd just like dat. Does yer know what he's gwine ter do for me? When dis yer war is ober he's gwine to help me find my mammy. Don't yer tink I 'specs him for dat?
Potts.Gad, you're a lucky fellow to find such a friend as that. I wish the colonel would help me find a sweetheart.
Pete(grinning). 'Specs for such a fine-lookin gennleman as you is, massa, de colonel would not have to work bery hard.
Potts.Thank you, Pete. That's praise worth having.
Bijah.I say, Pete, there's some one in this world, thatdoesn'tlove the colonel: you must take good care of him. One of these fine days some one will try to shoot him.
Pete.Shoot massa Colonel? Not if Pete can help it.
Bijah.Mind, you keep both eyes wide open. (ExitBijahthrough trees.)
Pete.Deed I will, massa.
Potts.Pete, my boy, the colonel is one of my dearest friends. I promised his wife that I would take good care of him, but I may be called away at any moment. I commend him to your care. And remember, the trust is a sacred one. (ExitPotts.)
Pete(salutes; wipes eyes on sleeves, and stands looking after him). I'll do de bes I knows. Golly, 'specs I didn't jine de army for nuffin. (Goes into tent; brings out pail and exitsR.through the trees for water. EnterPolly,wearing cloak and poke bonnet, with basket covered with napkin on arm, leadingDor.,disguised as an old lady; bonnet with veil over face.)
Polly(out of breath). My gracious! thankful enough, I am, that we are out of sight of those horrid soldiers. One of them tried to kiss me. Ugh! it makes me shiver to think of it. Miss Dorothy, here we are at last.
Dor.(raising veil). Indeed, I am thankful too. I am so tired. (Looks about.) Where are we, Polly?
Polly.Right in camp, miss; see that tent? I wonder who lives there? Let's look in and find out. (Both enter tent.)
Dor.(takes picture in frame from table). Look, Polly, Mrs. Graham's picture. It must be the colonel's.
Polly.Pity sakes alive! so it is. He must not see us here.
Dor.No indeed. I wonder how I can find Roger; ever since I overheard that plot, sleep has forsaken me.
Polly(walking about, looking through treesR.). Some one is coming this way. (Looks again.) And I really believe it is Major Potts.
Dor.They say “Fortune favors the brave.” This is indeed a lucky find. (Pollybeckons;Majorappears.)
Potts.Why, Polly Primrose, what are you doing here? (SeesDor.) Miss Dorothy, have you lost your senses? In camp! How did you enter?
Dor.Behold my disguise. (Pulls veil over face; then lifts it.) I am Polly's antiquated aunt. She has cakes to sell.
Polly.Yes, do have one. (Offers cakes.)
Potts(taking one). But what means this masquerading?
Dor.I must see Roger, Pinky, and could think of no way but this. I must tell him of the plot I overheard.
Potts.I thought you were to leave that to me. Lost your faith in your old friend?
Dor.(taking his hand). Don't think that for a moment. I could not remain at home. I did not dare tell Ruth, and I must tell my thoughts to some one; they were driving me frantic. Do find Roger for me—that's a dear fellow.
Potts.That is easier said than done. He must keep out of the colonel's way, and that is his tent.
Dor.You have wits enough to manage that. Don't tell him who is here, leave that to me; I mean to give him a surprise.
Potts.Let a woman alone for keeping a secret. You will undeceive him in five minutes. I know enough of the fair sex for that.
Dor.If you were not Roger's best friend, I should say something that you would not like.
Potts.I fly to do your bidding. Don't empty your vial of pent-up wrath over my defenceless shoulders. I should not dare to look a pretty girl in the face for a week.
Dor.What a vacation the pretty girls would have!Come, do hurry, or the colonel will return and spoil everything.
Potts.Au revoir!(Salutes and exit past sentinel, who salutes.)
Dor.My heart is fluttering like an imprisoned butterfly. Hark! Polly, some one else is coming.
Polly(looking). Pity sakes alive! It's Bijah Bright; seat yourself on this log and don't speak. (Dor.covers face; seats herself on log;Pollydraws hood together.)
(EnterBijah,R.)
Bijah.Wal, I agree with the major. This is getting monotonous; my blood boils for excitement; even the sight of a pretty face wouldn't go bad. That reminds me. (Takes picture out of pocket.) If I can't do that, there is no law to prevent me from looking at a pretty girl's picture; and “by gorry,” she is worth looking at. (Kisses picture.)
Polly.Well, I never! Now, I should just like to know—anothergirl, has he? I'll pay him well for that; deceiving me with his soft speeches.
Bijah(turns). Bless my soul! if here isn't a sweet lass now. What! ho! my pretty maid; where are you going?
Polly(disguises voice; courtesying). If you please, sir, I have cakes to sell. (Uncovers basket.)
Bijah.Here's luck. Just what I've been looking for. I'll take half a dozen. (Gives coin; bites cake.) My! what cakes! “Is this heaven, Uncle Tom?” (Bites again.) These bring to me visions of Polly's kitchen and her pies.
Where'er I roam, where'er I be,No cakes can equal Polly P's.
Where'er I roam, where'er I be,No cakes can equal Polly P's.
This is richness. (ToPolly.) Why do you hide your face? Let me look at you.
Polly.Indeed I can't.
Bijah.You can't. Wal, I can. (Tries to raise her head.) Come now, give me a kiss. (Pollysuddenly raises head, throws back hood and discloses herself toBijah'sastonished gaze.)
Bijah.Polly—Polly Primrose!
Polly(indignantly). Yes, Polly—Polly Primrose. Aren't you ashamed of yourself? You're a nice kind of a man, you are, pretending to be fond of me.
Bijah.Oh, come, Polly, I didn't mean any harm.
Polly.Oh no, no harm, of course not. Kissing every girl you meet. Don't speak to me—I'll never trust you or any other man again.
(EnterPottsandRoger.)
Potts.What is this? An indignation meeting? Bijah quarrelling with a pretty woman? No, yes, it is—Polly Primrose; but who is this? (Looking atDor.)
Polly.That's my aunt, she came with me.
Roger.Poor old lady; she seems tired.
Polly.That she is; but she's never too tired to tell fortunes; wouldn't you like to hear yours?
Roger.Anything to kill time. (Goes toDor.) Come, let's hear it. My time is short. (Looking about.) No danger of the colonel's appearance, is there, Potts?
Potts.No, Roger, he is busily engaged. I've looked out for that.
Roger.Good! Now, what is the wheel of fortune to bring me? Oh! (CrossesDor.'spalm with silver.) I remember, no golden treasure disclosed, unless the key be silver.
Dor.(takingRoger'shand; disguised voice). Young man, you have had serious trouble; some cloud hangs over you. You are suspected of some crime.
Roger(starting). What witchcraft is here?
Dor.But you are innocent. If you have patience, your name will soon be cleared.
Roger.I hope so with all my heart.
Dor.You have a good heart, and, let me see—yes—that line is crossed—you have given it to some one.
(ExeuntPollyandBijahthrough trees,L.)
Potts(slappingRogeron back; laughs). You are hard hit, old man. Even the witches can read your heart.
Dor.(addressingPotts). Your time is coming, sir. “He laughs best who laughs last.”
Roger.Ha, ha! Potts, some time that heart of yours won't stand the fire. Then I will charter a Gatling gun to return all your volleys.
Dor.(looking atRoger'shand). But what is this? Some danger lurks near a friend; perhaps a brother.
Roger.I have no brother.
Dor.No; not a real brother, but—
Roger.The colonel?
Dor.(excitedly). Yes, yes. You must save him. He shall owe his life to you. Some one calling himself friend is his foe. (Rising; forgets, and assumes natural voice.) He has done you a grievous wrong, but you will forgive that?
Roger.That voice! (RaisesDorothy'sveil.) Dorothy?
Potts.Cleverly done, little maid. You actually waited eight minutes. (Looks at watch.)
Roger.Major! Dorothy, what does this mean?
Potts.A well-laid scheme, Roger, to hold a stolen interview with you. Miss Dorothy, you can talk with Roger just five minutes, no longer. The colonel will return by that time.
(ExitMajor.Rogersits on log;Dor.kneels at his side.)
Dor.Forgive me for coming, Roger, but I was so anxious.
Roger.Anxious, little one? Why, what is the trouble? Is it a quarrel with “my dearest friend Mollie”?
Dor.Don't speak like that. No one ever gives me credit for any depth of feeling, just because I laugh and take the good of life as it comes along.
Roger.Which I hope you will always do, Dorothy dear. Come, forgive me, and tell me your trouble.
Dor.Before the colonel left home after his illness, Mr. Newcomb called one day. I entered the drawing-room, and overheard a conversation which he was having with some man,—a soldier in the colonel's regiment.
Roger.Did you hear the man's name?
Dor.Yes; Mr. Newcomb called him Gibbs. Oh, I was so frightened, for I heard them plan to kill the colonel.
Roger.Kill the colonel? How? When?
Dor.This man was, some night, to be placed as the colonel's sentinel. That was to be the time and place. “After Taps” they said.
Roger.Have you told any one of this?
Dor.Only the major. It would never do to tell Ruth. She worries enough without that.
Roger.And you have kept it all to yourself? No wonder you were anxious. Dorothy, you are a treasure.
Dor.But tell me, how can you save Gordon?
Roger.He says and thinks hard things of me, Dorothy. (Both rise.)
Dor.But you know at heart he does not mean it. It is all through that horrid Newcomb.
Roger.Yes; that horrid Newcomb.
Dor.Promise me that you will do your best to save him.
Roger.No need to promise that. He is your brother; for that, if for no other reason, I must forget and forgive.
Dor.Roger, you have made me so happy.
Roger.Then, for all I have suffered, I ask no better reward.
(EnterPotts.)
Potts.Time's up. (PollyandBijahenter.) Where is Polly?
Polly.Here I am, sir.
(Bijahvery dejected.)
Roger.Bijah, escort them both. Give the countersign, that they may cross the lines safely.
Polly.We do not need his assistance. He had better wait for another girl. (Glares atBijah.) Come, Miss Dorothy.
Roger(embracesDor.). Good-by, sweetheart. No more anxious moments, remember.
Dor.Never. Good-by, Pinky.
(ExeuntDorothy,Polly,andBijah.)
Potts.Poor Bijah looks unhappy, because the maid of his heart won't smile upon him. He has a good heart, and is “true as steel.”
Roger(hand onPotts'sshoulder; music). Indeed he is. No one knows it better than I. He stood my friend in my darkest hours. Ah, Potts! I have a hard battle yet to fight. Newcomb must not win the day. My plan is a bold one. Stand by me, old man; your friendship will be tried. (Taking his hand.) But those honest eyes of yours never failed me yet. This firm pressure of your hand, and the knowledge of Dorothy's faith and love, give me strength and courage to do my duty.
Scene II.—Same as Scene I. Evening.Kilroyhas been relieved; lights across the river; table removed from the stage,C.
Pete(discovered lighting candle inColonel'stent). Golly, I feels powerful big, I does, wid dis yer coat ob de colonel's. 'Specs some time, dey will mistook us, and I gets all de salutes. (Comes out of tent.) Dey will 'proach me dis yer fashion. (ImitatesOrderlyand salutes.) Massa Colonel. (ImitatesColonel.) Yas, sar. (ImitatesOrderly.) A 'spatch from de general. (Imitates.) Very well, sar. (Salutes; walks about with dignity; enterKilroy.)
Kil.Faith, and if it ain't the shmall heathen we saved from the other soide. Luk at the shtyle of him,—paradingabout wid the colonel's shtripes and buttons. Whist, honey, phat are yees doing wid that coat?
Pete(turning). I's habin' heaps of fun, I is. Massa Colonel gib me dis yer coat, an' I's playin' wid my 'magination, an' tinks I'se de colonel.
Kil.Playin' wid phat is it? The nixt thing you know, it may be powder phat's playin' wid you.
Pete.Does yer 'member, sah, when I comed across de line?
Kil.Will, indade I does. A foine specimen yees were. Shure, for a minit, I thought it was the divil himself, coming to give me a surprise party.
Pete(grins). Den yer don't trabel wid him all de time, massa?
Kil.Oh, yer shpalpeen! (Strikes atPete,who dodges, turns a somersault, and exit past sentinel.)
Kil.A shmart one, by the powers! Travel with the divil is it? Faith, and he goes it so fast, niver a bit cud I kape up wid him. If that shmall imp don't show more respict to his betthers, a shmall chance he'll get to travel with any one.
(ExitKil.,R.;Guardapproaches with change of sentinel.)
Sent.Halt! Who comes there?
Guard.Friend.
Sent.Advance, friend, and give the countersign.
(Guardgives it;Gibbsstands as sentinel; relievedSentinelmarches off behindGuard.)
Gibbs.I wonder if Newcomb is on the watch. Yes; here he comes. Too clever to miss the game.
(EnterCol.andNew.;GibbssalutesCol.;New.looks atGibbs,and starts.)
Col.What's the matter, Newcomb? Not nervous, are you?
New.It's nothing. Thought I saw a shadow. Do you have any of those black devils hanging about here?
Col.Yes, occasionally one; but they never give us any trouble. One little fellow crossed the line to-day, and he was so bright and clever,—wanted to stay here with me; so I have set him to work, and I expect he will take excellent care of me. I admire the devotion of that race; treat them kindly, and you are always sure of plenty of friends.
New.I prefer a higher type of humanity for associates.
Col.What a pity, Newcomb, that two such warm friends as we should not have heart for the same cause! However, some day you will be of my opinion, I hope.
(Col.sits at table inside tent;New.on stool at opening.)
New.Hardly that, yet. Whatever the end may be, I trust we shall still be good comrades.
Col.That sentiment I echo with my whole heart. But tell me, Newcomb, do you ever hear anything of Roger Carruth?
(Gibbslistens at side of tent.)
New.Never. He won't show himself in this part of the country again.
Col.You are sure that you have evidence of his guilt? I would not misjudge the boy for all the world; I am too fond of him for that.
New.Why should I, his friend and yours, seek to turn you against him?
Gibbs(aside). Why, indeed!
Col.I cannot understand it—so true and honorable, always. Some fearful temptation must have stood in his way.
New.Evil will show itself. If the seed is there, time will surely make it grow.
Col.No, no, Newcomb; don't say that. Why, man, would you have me think for a moment that it was more than a sudden pitfall?
New.The evidence grows stronger and stronger against him.
Col.Oh, Newcomb, this is so hard to bear! (Covers face with hands;Gibbsreturns to place and resumes march.)
New.(rises). Never mind, old fellow. (Places hand onCol.'sarm.) You have some friends left who have not played the knave.
Col.(rising; holds out hand). True, Newcomb; I have much to thank you for. This kindly interest in my welfare, I trust the time will come when I can repay it.
New.Don't worry about that. (Looks at watch.) It is almost time for taps.
Col.Won't you stay and smoke with me?
New.Not to-night. Early hours are prescribed for you. Good-night.
Col.Good-night.
(New.goes up stage;Col.enters tent; enterPete,R.;seesNew.talking withGibbs.)
Pete.I wonder if he lubs de colonel. 'Specs I jes listen to der comversation. (Creeps behind tree nearGibbs.)
New.Well, are you ready for your work?
Gibbs.Yes, sir.
New.No chicken-hearted business about this. Is your aim a true one?
Gibbs.Yes; true as steel.
New.I can depend upon you?
Gibbs.You can, sir. I feel a special interest in the work to-night.
New.At what time?
Gibbs.After taps.
New.It will soon be here. (Bugle-call for taps.)
Gibbs.That is the call. Ten minutes more; before the lights are out.
New.All right. Make your shot tell.
Gibbs.I will do my best, sir.
New.Good-night. (Gibbssalutes;New.exit.)
Pete(shaking). Golly, my hair just frozen stiff; bof my knees powerful confectionate. Dey's plotting mischief, dey is. An' if Pete don't keep bof eyes wide open, dere will be trouble in de camp. (Hides behind tree.)
(EnterMajorandBijah.)
Potts.Newcomb is about the camp. I fear mischief is brewing.
Bijah.I'd jest like to see the sport. I wonder who he is working this time.
Major(goes toCol.'stent; salutes). All right for the night, colonel?
Col.(raising head from hand). Yes, major; good-night.
Major.Good-night. (Salutes.)
Bijah(looking through trees in flat,L.). Major, look there! I'll bet you a fiver, that's Newcomb.
Potts(looking overBijah'sshoulder). You're right. Let us hide and watch him. (Both hide in trees,L.;drum-call for lights out; stage darkens;Col.puts out candle and stands in doorway.)
Col.I wonder where that snowball of mine is? Pete! Pete!
Pete(runs across stage). Here I is (salutes), massa!
Col.What are you doing at this time of night?
Pete.I's watchin' somefin, massa. I heard a cracklingin der bushes; 'specs it possum. Yer don't mind if I looks, massa?
Col.No; only don't stray away too far.
Pete.'Deed I won't, Massa Colonel. (Salutes, and resumes watch.)
Bijah.You bet he scents the game.
Col.(crosses stage, goes up back; stands looking at river.) I wonder why it is my thoughts are all of Roger to-night. Poor Ruth! how heavy her heart is; and I spoke words which did not lighten the burden. Down deep in my heart I cannot think him guilty. Yet Newcomb is so sure,—and Newcomb knows. (ToSentinel.) Everything all right?
Gibbs(salutes). All right, sir.
(Col.turns to enter tent;New.appears at extremeL.,and watchesGibbs;GibbsseesNew.,stops a moment, then followsCol.,aims at him, turns quickly, and fires atNew.Pete,who has followedGibbs,springs upon his back, and grasps him soon as shot is fired.New.is wounded in wrist.GibbsswingsPetearound and knocks him senseless with butt of gun.PottsandBijahseizeGibbs;Col.turns as shot is fired;Soldiersappear; stage grows light;Kil.runs toPeteand raises head.)
New.(holding wrist). The traitor! I'll pay him well for this.
Col.What does this mean? Treason in the camp?
New.It means, colonel, that this man attempted your life. I overheard his plotting and came to warn you. He missed fire, and my wrist caught the shot.
Col.Where is the sentinel?
Kil.(points atGibbs). Faith, and there he is.
Col.So, sir, placed here on honor to guard your colonel's life, you turn traitor. Speak, man, why have you done this? (Gibbsremains silent.)
Col.(goes toPete). Poor little fellow! You have killed him.
Kil.If yees plaze, colonel, his sinses are only knocked out of him.
Col.(toGibbs). Man, why are you silent?
New.He is too great a coward to defend himself. He dare not speak. (Music.)
Gibbs.Dare not? Be careful, Newcomb; the game is not yet yours. You call me traitor: coward. Yet beneath the stars in heaven there is not one who wears, beneath his coat, a blacker heart than yours.
New.What do you mean? Who are you that dares to accuse me?
Gibbs(right arm free). One who has suffered much at your hands; who has borne with patience your taunts and slurs; who, knowing of the colonel's danger, tried to save his life. One whom you thought “as good as dead” stands before you. A victim of your treachery. (Tears off whiskers and wig.) Roger Carruth.
(Tableau.—Kil.,C.,kneeling and holdingPete'shead on knees;Col.staggers back and leans against soldiers, who support him;PottsandBijaheach holding one ofRoger'shands, looking at him;Rogerlooking atNew.,who stares at him horror-stricken.)
CURTAIN.