Scene 1:Sitting-Room in the Maitland Cottage.
Anastasiadiscovered seated knitting at table, L. C.
Anas.War, and war, and war—and nothing but war! What earthly sense can there be in a lot of men standing up to be shot at, I’d like to know? Men making targets of themselves for others to practice shooting at! If they want to shoot so bad there are enough shooting galleries, where they can bang away to their hearts’ content. But that’s just the way with the men. They always will be doing things they ought not to. If the women only had the control of the Government, there would not be any war—never! Everything would be peace and harmony.
EnterMorris, D. R. 3 E.
Mor.[R. C.] Good morning, sister! Where is my little darling Alice?
Anas.Out in the garden with her mother and Hilda.
Mor.[Anxiously.] I am almost afraid to let them venture out of the house for fear there might be some rebels lurking in the neighborhood.
Anas.[Drops knitting and rises.] Good gracious, brother Morris! There is no danger of the fighting coming so close?
Mor.It is hard to tell how it will be. Warfare is very uncertain, although I do not think there is any immediatedanger. The rebels are fleeing towards the north-west, out of our track entirely. The Union forces are but six miles to our west.
Anas.What if they should turn back? What will become of us?
Mor.True; but I believe the greatest danger is past! The rebels have a determined pursuer, who will not be forced back. Grant is not the man to acknowledge defeat. He has entered the fight to win, and I have faith in him to believe that he will not turn his back upon the rebels until he has forced them to submission.
Anas.Just to think that we might all have been shot and cut up—ugh! It makes my blood run cold.
Mor.But the danger is not entirely over. The enemy is getting desperate. Their supplies are cut off, and I fear some depredation from foraging parties. I must caution them not to go out of sight of the house, and not to allow Alice out of hearing. It would tear my heart-strings should harm come to my darling little Alice.
Anas.Bless the sweet child! How she does grow. Ah! brother, she looks more and more like our poor lost Alice every day.
Mor.Anastasia! I beg of you do not re-open the old wound. Revive not the bitter memories of the past, which still have power to renew the agony of a father’s woful loss. [Turns away.]
Anas.Forgive me, brother! I did not wish to make you feel sad. I’m too sympathetic—I’m—I’m—[She sits and cries affectedly.]
Mor.There, there! Don’t let us have a scene. John is about ready to start for the post-office. If you have any letters to send, you will please have them ready. I will go and seek my little torment, Alice. [ExitD. R. F.]
Anas.[Takes letter from pocket and reads it.] Ah, howhe loves the child! Should anything happen to Alice, it would kill him. [Addresses letter.] George Washington Dollerclutch, Esq. There, you brave man! I’m so afraid his lion courage will make him too venturesome. History will be full of his great deeds of bravery and valor. But I must hasten, or I shall be too late. [ExitD. L. 2 E.]
EnterHilda, D. R. 3 E. She goes to chair R. of table.
Hil.How cruel is fate! The friend on whom I had based my hopes to help me sustain an honorable recognition before the world is debarred, by the cruel requirements of war, from clearing my name of the stain and reproach heaped upon it by a designing and depraved villain.
EnterAdrienne, D. R. 3 E.
Adri.What! brooding again, Hilda? Come, cheer up! Put a firm trust in the Almighty, and He will help you out of your great trouble.
Hil.I do! [Rises.] But, oh! it seems so long to wait!
Adri.Alas, yes! We are apt to question sometimes, if He has deserted us. But, rest assured, Hilda, He is all mercy and justice, and will, in His good time, bring the balm of peace and joy to the suffering heart.
Hil.Thanks, my lady! You have been so good to me.
Adri.Nay, Hilda! I deeply sympathize with you in your trouble, and I feel assured that your villainous husband will, some day, meet the punishment he so richly deserves.
Hil.Yes, my lady. How near he came to wrecking your happiness, also. It makes me shudder to think of it.
Adri.Yes, Hilda! but Heaven saved me from such a fate. It is with shame that I must acknowledge that I was so blinded to his real character as to love him. Thank Heaven, my eyes have been opened to his treachery and baseness.
Hil.Oh, my lady! I am so glad to know that you forgave my silence about his true character.
Adri.I could not blame you, Hilda. It was a bitter lesson, and I can only reproach my folly for listening to his ardent appeals of love. I thought him a gentleman of the highest honor, worthy of the love of a virtuous and innocent girl. But your exposure of his utter depravity has saved me from despair. It has awakened me to a keen sense of the great injustice I have done him who has honored me with his name—my husband. Oh, the agony I have inflicted upon that noble, trusting heart! Oh, that it was I that drove him from me by my wretched cruelty!—perhaps to meet his death upon the gory field of battle.
EnterMorris, door in L. F. He pauses and listens.
Adri.Oh, may the Heavenly Father spare his life and bring him safely back to this bleeding heart.
Hil.Oh, Adrienne! then you love him?
Adri.Love him, Hilda! Yea. I worship him. The grand nobility of his soul has inspired my heart with the strong, undying love of the wife.
Hil.And does Reginald know of the change of your heart?
Adri.Alas, no! Pride—foolish pride—has kept me from making the confession to him.
Hil.Adrienne, let me beseech you, then, to write to himat once, and bring the sunshine of joy to his wretched heart. Do not mar your own happiness by withholding the true state of your feelings. Think of your child—your darling Alice. Do not deprive her future of the happiness of a father’s love.
Adri.I am so unworthy of him. Can he—will he forgive? [Aside.] His words when he left me—“Perhaps in time your feelings may change; if so, the words ‘Reginald, I love you—come back,’ will bring to your side one who will forever love you.” [ToHilda.] Yes, yes, Hilda, you have taught me my duty. I will unburden to him my heart. Iwillsay—“Reginald, I love you—come back.” [Morriscomes forward. Down L.]
Mor.God bless you, my daughter!
Adri.You here?
Mor.Forgive me, Adrienne, for being a listener. But I am glad, for it has convinced me how much I had wronged you in my thoughts. It has shown me the true and loving heart of a woman—of a true and loyal wife, who can yet be a pride to the loving heart of a husband, and a joy in the declining years of his father. I have treated you coldly, harshly, unjustly. I knew not the cause—the motive of your action. I looked but upon the result. I now ask, in all humility and deference, your forgiveness. [He kneels to her.]
Adri.Rise, most noble sir! I have naught to forgive! I, alone, am to blame. I have merited your censure by my conduct. Heaven grant it may not be too late to restore to your arms an honored and dutiful son, and to me a cherished and beloved husband.
Mor.[Embraces her.] Adrienne! [Kisses her forehead.] God bless you, my daughter! [His head droops on her shoulder.Adriennegives her hand toHilda, who takes it in both her own. Picture. Whistle scene.]
Scene 2:Wood Pass in 1st Groove. Night.
EnterDollerclutch, R. 1 E., enveloped in cloak.
Dol.I got safely away without being discovered. The camp was wrapped in slumber, not a soul stirring but the sentinels. [Looks around.] If I’m not mistaken, I must be near the house. Ah! some one approaches! [He retires.]
EnterHilda, L. 1 E.
Hil.If Reginald could but return, how happy they would be! I left Adrienne writing to him, pouring out the love which will bring joy to his desolate heart. [Sighs.] And there’s Henry, her brother! How my thoughts will always revert to him. So manly in his bearing—high in the appreciation of true worth. If I only were—but no! I must check the feeling that has sprung up here. [Pressing her heart.] I must not forget that my life is linked to another—
Dol.[Aside.] It’s she! I’m sure it is!
Hil.[Alarmed.] What’s that!—who’s there? [Dollerclutchcomes forward.Hildaretreats, alarmed.]
Dol.Don’t be alarmed, my dear girl. Don’t you know your old friend?
Hil.[Comes forward doubtfully.] Can it be possible? Mr. Dollerclutch?
Dol.Yes, my dear girl, your stanch friend, Dollerclutch. [Takes her hand.]
Hil.I’m so glad to meet you! But what brings you in this neighborhood? Perhaps you know—Oh, tell me, sir! Have you any news? Relieve my suspense, sir!
Dol.I have news, and good news—I’ve discovered all; now don’t you faint. I’ve got the record of your marriage—and I have found your parents. [Hildagets faint and staggers.] Oh, Lord! I told you not to faint—what shall I do? [He supports her.]
Hil.[Starting up.] ’Tis over, sir! The sudden joy nearly overcame me.
Dol.Now take a strong grip of your nerves—now do—that’s a good girl. I have not a minute to spare. I must get back to camp before my absence is discovered or I shall get myself in a tight place.
Hil.Pardon me, sir! I will be calm!
Dol.That’s right! [Takes papers from pocket.] Now listen! I haven’t the time to tell you how I was successful—that I’ll do by letter—but I’ve got the proofs, and here they are. That is the record of your marriage, and this is part of a letter from which, I think, I have found out that you are the daughter of Morris Maitland.
Hil.[Staggers.] Mr. Maitland my father?
Dol.Now be careful, I tell you! Don’t forget your nerves. Now listen to what I say. Take these papers and this dress to Morris Maitland. [Hands her papers and baby dress.] Tell him your story and I’ll stake my life on it that he will find a daughter and you a father.
Hil.How can I ever repay you for your kindness to me? You have raised a burden from my life that was crushing me. Heaven bless you, sir! May you meet the reward that your large and magnanimous heart deserves.
Dol.I haven’t got any such heart! you are mistaken—entirely mistaken. My action was in the line of duty—purely in duty, without any kindness whatever, do you understand? Now go! lose not a moment and be careful not to lose the papers. [Gently forces her to L. 1 E.]
Hil.I will, sir! and Heaven bless you. [ExitL. 1 E.]
Dol.Now, I’ve got that poor girl happy, now for my own happiness. If I could only meet my Anastasia! Nowwhy the deuce didn’t I ask that girl to tell her to come out a few moments? George Washington, you’re an idiot to let a little excitement get away with your head. But who comes this way? [Dollerclutchhides.]
EnterRalph, R. 1 E.
Ralph.So! Adrienne must be the magnet which drew him from his post of duty. I followed him like a ferret, and I’m sure that we are in the neighborhood of his home. Curse him, he can walk like a race horse! I had to run, at times, to keep up with him. Go to your Adrienne, you vain fool, go to the wife whose heart enshrines another. I wish you joy! But I too shall, perhaps, see an opportunity to speak to the proud and haughty beauty! If I do, I’ll humble her pride—curse her! [ExitL. 1 E.]
Dol.[Comes forward.] Ralph Murdell, by the jumping jingo! What brings him to this neighborhood? No good, I’ll be bound! If he should run across Hilda before she gets to the house it might upset all. No! not while old Dollerclutch can prevent it. I’ll follow the rascal, and, if he as much as attempts to injure a hair of the girl’s head, I’ll treat his black carcass to an ounce of lead. Hang me if I don’t see this thing through! [ExitL. 1 E. Whistle scene.]
Scene 3:Same as Scene 1.
Adriennediscovered at table, L. C., writing.Alicein crib, L. 4 E.
Adri.[Sealing letter.] ’Tis done at last! With what feelings of anxiety shall I count the hours until I have his reply! Will it bring happiness to my longing heart? Yes, yes! His is a love that time cannot change, nor separationdim! [Goes to crib, L. 4 E.] How sweetly she sleeps! [She kneels in prayer.] Heaven preserve my darling child! Watch over her with thy faithful love and guidance. Guard the father with thy holy protection from the dangers of this cruel war, and restore him safely to the bosom of his sorrowing family. [Her head droops. After a slight pause she gets up hurriedly.] I will take the letter to John, so that he will be sure to take it to the post-office the first thing in the morning. [ExitAdrienne, D. L. 2 E.]
After a pauseEnterReginald, D. R. F.; he looks around eagerly; places his gun against chair, R. 2 E.
Reg.No one here? How my heart does beat in anticipation of seeing my beloved Alice. [Looks around.] Oh, the bitter memories that haunt my mind at the sight of each familiar object! [Sees crib, L. 4 E. Goes to it eagerly and pulls curtain aside.] My child! my Alice! Heavenly Father, I thank Thee! She sleeps. Oh, Thou being of innocence, free from the taint of a deceitful world, I will not disturb the peaceful quiet of thy innocent slumber. Let me feast my eyes upon my sleeping darling! [He kneels.] Let the sweet picture of purity and innocence be forever hung in the desolate cavern of my bleeding heart, safely to guide me to that eternal home where the soul can find a haven of peace and rest! [His head sinks.]
EnterAdrienne, door L. 2 E. She goes to R. C. and seesReginald. She is alarmed.
Adri.What means this? A stranger!
Reg.[Rises suddenly and turns.] Adrienne! [He turns away.]
Adri.Reginald! [She pauses, with heaving bosom.]
Reg.I beg your pardon, Adrienne, for this intrusion. The impulse to see my child caused me to forsake my postof duty. It led me here to have but one look upon her darling form. I have been satisfied and I am ready to return to the stern post of duty. [He turns to go towards door in L. F.]
Adri.And have you no word for me? [He pauses.] Not a look for the mother of your child? [Reginaldkeeps his back towards her.Adriennestretches her arms towards him.] Am I so soon forgotten? [He presses his brow. Pause.] Reginald, I love you! come back! [Reginald turns suddenly and springs towards her.]
Reg.Adrienne! [She falls into his arms.] My beloved Adrienne!
Adri.[After a pause.] Now am I happy, indeed! My prayers have been answered!
Reg.Heaven is, indeed, merciful, in bringing this joy into my dreary existence! I fulfilled my duty as a soldier more with the desire to die in the service of my country, than to live. But now, I enter the fight doubly armed, for I now know that I have something more to live for besides my child—a loving wife.
Adri.Heaven grant you will be spared to us, Reginald!
Reg.We will put our trust in Him above, who has granted me the boon of this happy hour! Alas that I must tear myself away from my new found joy! But duty demands that I return at once to my post.
Adri.Nay, Reginald, I cannot let you go again.
Reg.Alas! Adrienne, you must bear the separation calmly, for my sake and for the child’s. I left my post without permission, and should my absence be discovered I shall be court-martialed. A few hours ago I feared not the consequences of my rash act. But now I dread it, for your sake. I must return at once, while there is yet time. Let the thoughts of our child be your strength in my absence, as she will be mine in the heat of battle. May theLord of Hosts bring this bloody war to a speedy close. [Goes to crib.] Farewell! my child! [Kisses her.] Farewell! my beloved wife! [Kisses her. She clings to him.] Heaven guard and keep you. [Reginaldtears himself fromAdrienneandExitsdoor L. F. hurriedly, leaving his gun behind.Adriennesinks into chair R. of table.]
Adri.Cruel, cruel fate! [Her head droops.]
EnterRalph, door R. F.
Adri.[Starts up joyfully.] Reginald! [Sees it isRalph. She draws herself haughtily erect.] Ralph Murdell!
Ralph.[Comes down R. Sneeringly.] Even I, Adrienne, your humble servant!
Adri.What means this intrusion, sir, at this hour of the night?
Ralph.I never had the pleasure of congratulating you before on your happy marriage!
Adri.Sir, you will oblige me by leaving this house!
Ralph.[Aside.] That cut, did it? [ToAdrienne.] Pardon me, madam, but if you will allow me to offer my sincere sympathy for your loveless married life——
Adri.Leave this house instantly, or I will call assistance to eject you forcibly!
Ralph.Ha! ha! ha! I made sure there was no one about to disturb us ere I entered.
Adri.What do you mean?
Ralph.Just this! That there is not a soul within the reach of your voice. We are alone. But listen to me, Adrienne. I do not wish you harm—on the contrary, I offer you happiness.
Adri.I do not understand you, sir!
Ralph.When you married Reginald Maitland, it was not because you loved him, but to gratify a feeling ofpique. You gave him your hand, but not your heart. That belonged to me! I have watched your husband every day and have read the unhappiness and misery that he tries to conceal. Adrienne, you are unhappy in the bonds that tie you to a loveless life. Therefore, fly with me, and I will show you a life’s loving devotion—a life——
Adri.Enough! Do not pollute further the sanctity of a true and honest husband’s roof with the vile utterances of depraved villainy. My husband I adore, and I will be loyal to him and faithful unto death. Your influence over my heart is forever broken, and I would sooner suffer death, aye, a thousand times, than to listen to another word from you, whom I hate and despise—yea, whom I loathe more than a viper in my path! Go, and may Heaven have mercy on your soul! [She turns away in majestic contempt.]
Ralph.[SeesReginald’sgun and takes it.] Curse you! Those words have sealed your doom! [He shoots.Adriennestaggers and falls.] Ha! ha! ha! Now, my proud beauty, perhaps your pride is humbled! Ha! ha! ha! [Looks around cautiously, puts out light, then gropes for door.]
EnterDollerclutch, door R. F.
Dol.[Feeling in the dark.] I’m sure he came this way—and that shot! I’m afraid all is not right. [Runs intoRalph.] Ha! [They struggle.RalphthrowsDollerclutchfrom him and escapes through door, R. F.] Confound it! He’s got away! But I’ve got his ring, which slipped from his finger into my hand. He shan’t escape—I’ll have him yet. [Exithurriedly, door R. F.]
After a pauseEnterReginald, door L. F.
Reg.The house is dark. Adrienne has retired for the night. In the excitement and haste of my departure I forgot my gun. [He feels around in the dark.] I stood it here against a chair! [Finds it.] Ah! It would not do to return without it. I feel almost tempted to call Adrienne, that I might once more clasp her to my heart—but, no! I have delayed too long already. I will live on the fond remembrance of our happy meeting, and pray that the day be not far distant when I can feast my heart upon the smiles of my beloved wife and child! [Exitdoor R. F.]
Quick Curtain.
Scene 1:Camp; Same as Third Act.
Table, R. 2 E.Coriolanuson duty as sentinel, L. 1 E.Adolphusin front of tent, C., cleaning gun;Colonel Morrell,Captain LowvilleandMajor Murdellat table, R. 2 E., in consultation, as curtain rises.
Colonel Morrell.I agree with you, gentlemen, fully, and I have concluded not to advance further until I receive more definite news of the movements of the main body. We will, therefore, continue in camp till I give you further instructions.
Hen.According to all reports, the rebs are badly crippled, and Lee cannot hold out much longer. At all events, I should not be surprised to hear of his surrender to Grant in the near future.
Mor.Yes, there is all prospect of a speedy ending of this bloody strife, and I hope we will soon have peace restored, that we may be enabled to return to our homes and families! [About to rise.]
Ralph.One moment, Colonel! before you go! It is with regret that I must call your attention to a private in our command who deserted his post as sentinel!
Mor.Indeed! His name!
Ralph.Reginald Maitland! [Henryrises.]
Mor.[Jumps up.] What! Reginald Maitland? Impossible!
Ralph.[Rises.] I beg your pardon, Colonel, but it is a fact!
Hen.Surely, Major, you must be mistaken!
Mor.Reginald Maitland—a soldier ever ready to respond to the call of duty; always fulfilling his orders in the most praiseworthy manner—he desert his post? [Shakes his head.] Please explain, Major!
Ralph.’Tis surprising, indeed! but, nevertheless, a fact! I saw him leave myself—he seemed to be greatly agitated. He was absent three hours!
Mor.Enough! Send for him to report to me at once!
Ralph.[ToAdolphus.] Adolphus! [Adolphussalutes.] Request Private Maitland to report to Colonel Morrell immediately! [Adolphussalutes and goes to tent, R. 5 E.]
Hen.[Aside.] Strange! What can it mean?
Ralph.[Aside.] At last!
EnterReginaldfrom tent; he comes down and salutes.Ralph, R.,Henry, R. C.,Col. Morrell, C.,Reginald, L. C.,Adolphus, L.
Reg.Colonel Morrell, I’m at your service, sir!
Mor.Maitland, were you not detailed as sentinel last night?
Reg.I was, sir!
Mor.Did you fulfill your duty to the letter? [Reginaldhangs his head.] You are silent! Speak!
Reg.Colonel Morrell, it is with shame I acknowledge that I have proved unfaithful to my duty—I deserted my post, sir!
Mor.Maitland, it pains me to know that you, on whose honor and probity I would have staked my existence, should be guilty of this offense. It is with regret that I am obliged to perform the duty which devolves upon me!
Reg.Colonel, the offense is a grave one. I have merited the punishment it demands. I am ready to receive it.
Mor.What was your motive in forsaking duty?
Reg.It was an uncontrollable impulse to see my child, whom I had never seen before, that swayed my being—I knew not what I did! My heart was filled with a mad desire to see my child. Duty, honor, all was forgotten. I could not resist the longing, the yearning of the father, but I followed the impulse which completely overpowered my reason.
Mor.And do you know that the penalty for your offense, according to the rules and regulations of war, is death?
Reg.I do! and I will not shrink from receiving my punishment. I am ready, Colonel, to receive sentence.
Hen.[Aside.] As fearless and brave as a lion!
Mor.[Aside.] No! I cannot do it! [ToReginald.] Maitland, under the circumstances, and in consideration of your past praiseworthy service, and your undaunted gallantry in action, I will not execute the punishment which the offense merits.
Hen.[Aside.] Bravo, Colonel!
Ralph.[Aside.] Curse his sympathy!
Mor.But I cannot let the matter pass unnoticed. I place you under arrest for three weeks. You will be confined in the guard-house under close surveillance. Private Softhead, deprive him of his arms and accoutrements, and conduct him in disgrace to the guard-house. [AdolphustakesReginald’sgun, etc., and places them on the table.]
Ralph.[Aside.] How it cuts his proud nature!
Hen.[Aside toMorrell.] These are hard lines, Colonel!
Mor.[Aside toHenry.] Yes, Captain! I regret it sincerely! I never before was obliged to do anything that gave me so much pain. But duty, as a true soldier, demanded it!
Adol.[ToReginald.] Right face! Forward march. [ExitReginaldandAdolphus, R. 4 E.]
Cor.[Looking off L. 2 E.] Halt! Who goes there? [Voice off entrance, “Friend bearing dispatches for the commanding officer.”] Advance, and deliver! [Coriolanusgets them and hands them toColonel Morrell.] Colonel, allow me! [He salutes and retires to his post.]
Mor.[Opening dispatches.] What’s this? Can I believe my eyes? [Reads.] “Adrienne Maitland, the wife of Reginald Maitland, was found last night, shot in the head. From the evidence I have collected, I am satisfied that the husband is the murderer. I send you the proofs. H. Carson, Chief of Police.” No! no! I cannot believe that that man is guilty of such an infamous charge. [ToRalph.] Major! read that, and say if that is not the most outrageous lie against such an honorable soldier as Reginald Maitland! [Hands him paper.]
Ralph.[Aside.] Ha! ha! ha! Now will I have my revenge.
Hen.How now, gentlemen, have you bad news?
Mor.There! [Pointing to paper.] Read for yourself! [RalphhandsHenrypaper.]
Hen.Merciful father! Adrienne killed! [Staggers.] My sister shot? [With force.] Tell me, Colonel, who is the cowardly wretch that committed this deed? [Ralphshrugs his shoulders.]
Mor.[Pointing to paper inHenry’shand.] Read!
Hen.[Looks on paper.] No! no! no! What! he guilty of her murder! No! a thousand times no! I would just as readily believe an angel guilty of the crime as I would Reginald Maitland! No! I will wager my life on his innocence!
Ralph.[Sneeringly.] But everybody is not likely to share your opinion!
Mor.[TakingHenryby the hand.] Lowville, I agreewith you! I cannot believe so noble a character invested with so foul a heart! Let us investigate the proofs! [He unfolds another paper. Reads.] “I inclose the deposition of William Harding, who swears that he saw Reginald Maitland prowling about the premises in a cautious and suspicious manner, and that he saw him enter the house about half past nine o’clock, which was about the time when the deed was committed.”
Hen.That evidence proves nothing, Colonel.
Ralph.It is very significant though!
Mor.One moment, gentlemen! [Reads.] “I also inclose a piece of blackened paper, evidently the wadding of the gun—also a bullet which we found imbedded in the wall.” [He pulls blackened paper from envelope—he smells it.] The wadding of the gun! [He smooths it out.] There is writing upon it! H’m! part of a letter. [Reads.] “i-l-d Alice!” i-l-d? child Alice, that’s it! “loving fath—” father, I suppose—“Morris Mai—” the rest is burned away.
Ralph.A letter from his father. [ToHenry.] The evidence is getting strong, Captain, is it not? [Henryis silent.]
Mor.[Takes bullet from envelope.] The fatal bullet! [Examines it.] Here are two letters on it, R. M.
Ralph.Gentlemen, the evidence is conclusive—he is guilty.
Mor.Do not be hasty, Major! I am not yet satisfied of his guilt. [Aside.] I fear the worst. [ToAdolphus.] Adolphus! conduct Private Maitland here at once! [Adolphussalutes andExitsR. 4 E.]
Ralph.[Aside.] He cannot escape now.
Hen.[Aside.] Alas! I fear the result!
EnterReginaldandAdolphus, R. 4 E.
Mor.Maitland, I have evidence here which accuses you of murder!
Reg.[Recoiling.] Murder? I, Colonel? I accused of murder?
Mor.Yes, you!
Reg.[Quietly.] Whom am I accused of murdering?
Mor.Your wife!
Reg.[Staggers.] My wife?—my wife? my Adrienne murdered?—merciful father! [Pause. With forced calmness.] I beg your pardon, Colonel, but I pray you make me not a victim of such cruel jest! [Morrellturns away.] No! no! Tell me ’tis but a jest—tell me it is not true. Oh, Colonel, tell me that my Adrienne lives—lives—lives! [He is silent. ToHenry.] Henry, end this suspense, this torture. Is Adrienne dead?
Hen.[Taking his hand.] Yes, Reginald, it is true!
Reg.Alas!—alas! [His head droops. Slight pause. With force.] Who—who is the hellish fiend that robbed me of my Adrienne? Tell me, that I might tear his cowardly body limb from limb.
Mor.Maitland, you alone are accused of the crime. [ToAdolphus.] Softhead! you will take down in writing the proceedings of this examination. [Adolphusat table R.,Henry, R. C.,Ralphnear table,Col. Morrell, C.,Reginald, L. C.,Coriolanus, R. ToReginald.] Are you guilty or are you not guilty of the murder of your wife, Adrienne Maitland?
Reg.I murder Adrienne—my wife? ha! ha! ha!—no! She, in whose happiness my whole soul was wrapped up? No—no!
Mor.Answer, guilty or not guilty!
Reg.Not guilty!
Mor.[ToRalph.] At what hour did he desert his post?
Ralph.Eight o’clock!
Mor.[ToReginald.] At what hour were you in company with your wife?
Reg.About nine o’clock!
Mor.Did you have your gun with you?
Reg.I did!
Mor.When did you load it last, and where?
Reg.Yesterday morning, in my tent!
Mor.Did you discharge it since?
Reg.No, sir!
Mor.Is it still loaded?
Reg.It is, sir!
Mor.Major Murdell, hand me Maitland’s gun. [He examines it.] Gentlemen, the gun has been discharged! [He hands gun back—he then handsReginaldblackened paper.] Do you recognize that paper?
Reg.[Looks at paper.] I do! It is part of a letter from my father! I used it for wadding.
Mor.Do you recognize this bullet? [Hands it.]
Reg.[Examines.] It is from my mould.
Mor.Did you have any ill feeling against your wife?
Reg.None!
Ralph.Colonel, I can prove that there has existed bad feeling between them since their marriage!
Mor.Make your statement!
Ralph.They lived unhappily together until an open rupture caused him to leave her and enlist in the army.
Mor.Your proof! [Ralphpoints toHenry.] Lowville, do you corroborate Major Murdell’s assertion? [Henrylooks atReginald. Henryis silent.]
Reg.Speak, Henry!
Hen.[Aside.] Must I speak? [After a pause, toMorrell.] I do!
Mor.[ToReginald.] What was the nature of the rupture?
Reg.I decline to answer.
Ralph.That was his motive for the crime!
Mor.Silence! [ToReginald.] In the face of the evidence, I am forced to believe you guilty. I regret that a soldier such as you have heretofore proved yourself to be, should come to such an ignominious end. [Ralphconsulting with others.Henrywalks aside.]
Reg.Do you believe me guilty, Colonel? [He turns fromReginald.] And do you all think me guilty of this cowardly crime? [They all look away butHenry, who takesReginaldby the hand.]
Hen.No! I would believe you innocent, had they ten times the evidence.
Ralph.The evidence has proven his guilt most conclusively!
Mor.[ToReginald.] Have you anything to say why I should not pass sentence upon you?
Reg.I have not!
Hen.Oh, Reginald, why do you not defend yourself? Why not make an effort to prove your innocence?
Reg.Henry, what have I to live for now? Adrienne is gone from me. She has left the world dark and dreary to me. I long to join her there! [Points upward.]
Hen.Prove your innocence. Let not the stain of murder rest on your honorable name!
Reg.Henry, this is but the judgment of men. I bow to the judgment of Him alone who knoweth all things. He knows I am innocent—that is sufficient. I am satisfied! His will be done! [ToMorrell.] Colonel, I await your orders!
Mor.[Aside.] I would I could believe him innocent. The evidence condemns him! [Sighs.] I must fulfill my duty! [ToReginald.] Maitland, the evidence that has been brought to bear shows conclusively that you are guilty! Nothing remains but for me to pass sentence. I therefore condemn you to be shot until you are dead.[Reginaldbows his head.] The sentence shall be executed immediately. I will allow you five minutes to prepare yourself to meet your God! [Takes out watch. ToRalph.] Major! you will detail your men to execute the order. [Ralphwhispers toCoriolanusandAdolphus.]
Hen.[ToReginald.] Reginald, this is terrible! The Colonel has no right to use such haste. The evidence is purely circumstantial, and should require deeper investigation!
Reg.Nay, do not blame Colonel Morrell; he has simply done his duty. Besides, why should the execution be deferred? Why should I longer drag out a miserable existence? I will soon be happy, Henry, for I shall meet Adrienne. But my child, Henry! my darling little Alice! Take her, Henry—be a father to her—guide her footsteps in the path of honor and virtue. Teach her not to despise her father—that he is innocent. Teach her not to listen to the sneers of the world, but to place an everlasting faith in the Father of us all, so that at the last she will find peace and joy in the beautiful realms above!
Hen.I accept the trust, Reginald. God grant I will be faithful to it. [They shake hands.] Have you any further wishes?
Reg.Tell my father I am innocent—that will be sufficient—he will believe me. Now leave me, Henry!
Hen.Farewell, my brother! [They embrace.] Farewell! [Reginaldkneels a moment with bowed head in silent prayer, after which he rises with a quiet air.]
Reg.I am ready, Colonel! [Morrellwaves his hand.AdolphusblindfoldsReginald, ties his hands behind him, and places him in position, L. C.AdolphusandCoriolanustake position on right.]
Ralph.[Colonel Morrell, R.,Henry, R. C.,Ralph, R. C.,CoriolanusandAdolphusup R.,Reginald, L. C. Pullshandkerchief from pocket.] Carry arms! Ready! [Holds handkerchief at arms length.]
EnterDollerclutch, R. 4 E., hurriedly.
Dol.[C.] Hold! If you shoot that man you commit murder! He is innocent!
Mor.[R. C.] What mean you?
Ralph.Will you allow this interference, Colonel?
Mor.Yes! God forbid that I should shoot an innocent man! [ToDollerclutch.] Your proofs!
Dol.My proofs are crushing! There is no murder! [Reginaldpulls off handkerchief.] His wife lives. She is even now on her way to this camp!
Reg.Adrienne lives? Thanks be to God!
Mor.How do you know this?
Dol.I overtook her on the road on my way to camp. She was almost exhausted, and begged of me to run on and save Reginald from being shot for her murder. I did so, and here I am, just in the nick of time! By jingo, I feel so good, I could shake hands with the greatest scoundrel that ever breathed. [He shakesRalph’shand.]
Ralph.Colonel, you surely will not be imposed upon by that rascal’s concocted story?
Mor.Silence! If she is not dead, it was not the fault of the intended murderer. He meant to kill her, and the intent is sufficient for which to carry out the penalty!
Dol.[R. C.] Correct, Colonel! But that man is not the one who attempted the murder. I swear that Reginald Maitland left the house fifteen minutes before the shot was fired. I was watching one whom I know to be the murderer, prowling around the house; but looking after Maitland’s departure, I lost sight of the other chap. Some time after I heard the shot and rushed into the house and into the arms of the attempted assassin, who was trying to escape. I struggled to overpower him, but he was too much for me. [Rubs his side and grimaces.] He got away. I pursued, but he got off in the darkness. In my eagerness to catch him, I fell into the hands of the rebels.
Mor.And how did you get away from the rebels?
Dol.This morning, by indomitable bravery and courage, I fought my way out of their lines and hastened back here to camp.
Mor.Who is the man that attempted the deed?
Dol.The room was dark; the scoundrel had put out the light; I could not recognize him!
Ralph.[Aside.] Safe! safe!
Mor.How do you know, then, that it was not Maitland?
Dol.In the struggle, the villain’s ring slipped into my hand. Here it is, Colonel! [Morrelltakes and examines it.] Later I also found this shoulder strap hanging to one of my buttons. [Morrellhands ring toRalph.] Colonel, do privates wear these things?
Ralph.Colonel, here are some letters engraved on the seal—R. M. Reginald Maitland!
Dol.You lie! R. M.—Ralph Murdell, and here is where this belongs, you cowardly assassin! [He claps the shoulder strap onRalph’sshoulder, which is minus one.]
Mor.Men, secure him! [AdolphusandCoriolanusdo so.Henry, R.,Coriolanus,RalphandAdolphus, R. C.,Colonel Morrell, C.,DollerclutchandReginald, L. C.]
Ralph.[ToDollerclutch.] Curse you for a meddlesome hound!
Dol.I said I would, and so I did, by jingo!
EnterAdrienne, R. 4 E., out of breath; her head is bandaged; she is very pale and exhausted.Reginaldtakes C.
Adri.Reginald, my husband!
Reg.Adrienne! [She falls in his arms half fainting.]
Adri.Safe! safe! You are safe!
Reg.Yes, yes, my wife. Heaven is just! You have been spared to me by His great mercy.
Mor.[Approaching them.] Pardon me, Maitland, for interrupting. Allow me to ask you one question, Madam? [She nods.] Who was it that fired the shot?
Adri.[Pointing toRalph.] There stands the coward who, failing in his effort to make me unfaithful to my true and loyal husband, attempted to murder me!
Mor.[ToReginald, taking his hand.] Forgive me, Maitland, for entertaining one moment the thought that you were guilty of such cowardly villainy! I have wronged you deeply.
Reg.I have naught to forgive, Colonel; you have acted only as a true soldier, and, had you not done as you did, you would have neglected your duty.
EnterHilda, R. 4 E.
Hil.[L. C., toAdrienne.] You are safe, Adrienne. You rushed from the house in your frantic excitement. I feared your mind was wandering.
Adri.Nay, Hilda! When I learned that my husband was accused of my supposed murder, I dreaded the consequences, and determined to save him ere it was too late.
Hil.They knew not where you had fled. But I knew where your heart would lead you, and I followed.
Hen.[Aside.] What a wealth of true womanly feeling is hidden by her quiet demeanor! [ToHilda.] Will you be kind enough to enlighten us, how it was that we received news from the Chief of Police that Adrienne was murdered?
Hil.When we found her last night, we supposed her to be dead, until this morning I thought I detected signs of life. I begged of them to summon a physician at once. He pronounced her alive, but in a death-like stupor. After hard work she was restored to consciousness. Examination of her wound showed that the bullet had only grazed the head, inflicting a scalp wound, but sufficient to effectually stun her.
Hen.Kind Providence turned the bullet’s fatal course, but it was almost the means of bringing a noble life to an ignominious end. [Pointing toReginald.]
Hil.Have you discovered the real culprit?
Hen.Yes! he is there! [Points toRalph.]
Hil.[Staggers.] Ralph!—my husband?
Hen.Your husband? Is that man your husband?
Hil.Alas! yes! With what feelings of loathing must I make the acknowledgment.
Ralph.Bah! you she-devil! I never married you—you were only a mistress!
Dol.You lie, you black-hearted villain!
Hil.[Producing papers.] You could ruin my character in the eyes of the world did I not possess this! [Holding paper aloft.] The record of my marriage to you. [Ralphrecoils.]
Dol.[ToRalph.] And I was the individual who saved that girl from your base villainy! I—do you understand?—I!
Ralph.Curse you!
Hen.[Aside.] Alas for my hopes!
EnterMorrisandAnastasia, R. 4 E.
Anas.[Going toAdrienneand embracing her.] You dear child! How glad I am that we’ve found you at last!
Mor.Heaven be praised, my daughter, I find you safe. [He embracesReginald.] My son!
Reg.Father!
Mor.I am overjoyed at this happy union of loving hearts. [ToHilda.] Alice, my child! [Beckons her to come. ToReginald.] Reginald, God has been merciful to restore to us your lost sister—my darling daughter, Alice!
Reg.My sister?
All.Your daughter?
Mor.Yes! my daughter! [Embraces her.] After many years of suffering and anguish has Heaven sent me the joy that I thought was buried in the past. [TakesDollerclutchby the hand.] Here is the instrument of Providence who saved an innocent girl and brought happiness to a father’s heart. [Hildaconverses withHenry.] Bless your kind heart! How can I ever repay you?
Dol.Tut! tut! tut! I acted only on business—only on business, sir!—do you understand? Entirely on business—without any kindness whatever. I am more than repaid when I see the happiness and joy that surrounds me! [He goes toAnastasia. Up L. C.]
Mor.That man’s father [pointing toRalph] was the wretch who stole the child from our parental bosom! His father and I aspired for the hand of the same lady—I was the successful one. He, being of a very passionate and revengeful nature, darkened our domestic bliss by stealing from the cradle our youngest child, Alice! I did not think I had an enemy in the world who could be guilty of such baseness, until last night I received the proof which exposed him and restored to me a daughter. All doubts of her identity were removed by the discovery of a mole behind her left ear, which we remembered our child’s having.
Morrell.I congratulate you, sir, upon your new found joy! The mills of justice grind slowly sometimes, but they are sure. Righteousness and truth will always receive its blessed reward. [ToCoriolanusandAdolphus.] Men, remove the depraved scoundrel to the guard house and see that he is strongly guarded. [They do so.ExitRalph,CoriolanusandAdolphus, R. 2 E.] It is a pity to mar the happiness of this hour with the presence of such a vile and cowardly rascal! [ToReginald.] Maitland, in consideration of the terrible mistake and injustice by which I almost sacrificed your life, I hereby revoke the order for your disgrace and restore you to honorable recognition by promoting you to the position of Major!
Hen.Bravo, Colonel!
Dol.Good! your heart is in the right place, Colonel! [Aside.] And so is mine! [Turning toAnastasia.]
Reg.[TakingMorrellby the hand.] Thanks, Colonel, thanks!
Morrell.Do not thank me, Maitland; you are more than deserving. Had you accepted promotion before when it was offered, for your gallant conduct and bravery on the field, you would long since have been even my superior officer. [A shot is heard.] What’s that? [All are alarmed and look off entrance.]
EnterAdolphusandCoriolanus, R. 2 E.
Adol.[R.] He’s done it, Colonel!—he’s done it!
Morrell.Done what? Who?
Adol.Ralph Murdell! He pulled a revolver and shot himself through the head.
Cor.Yes! His rash act has precipitated him into eternity—he’s dead!
Morrell.[Shrugs his shoulders.] Well, he has only saved me the stern duty of condemning him to such a fate.
Hen.[Aside.] His act has freed Hilda from the yoke of misery and despair. [Commotion outside. Voices heard crying“Hurrah!”in the distance.]
Morrell.What means this excitement? Dollerclutch, go and learn the cause! [ExitDollerclutch, L. 2 E., hastily.] They are yelling hurrah! There must be some good news from the front. They seem wild with joy!
Re-enterDollerclutch, L. 2 E.
Dol.[Rushing around excitedly.] Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah!
Morrell.[Stopping him.] Give us the news.
Dol.Hurrah! The war is over! Lee has surrendered to Grant!
Omnes.Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah! [Wild excitement and joy.]
Reg.[EmbracingAdrienne.] Then is our happiness complete. We shall never part again.
Dol.And I will, at last, leave my bachelorhood and worship at the shrine of my charming Anastasia!
Anas.[Falls in his arms.] You dear man!
Cor.[Aside.] She throws true nobility aside [pointing to himself] for such a presumptuous old fool! Oh! woman! woman! [Sighs deeply and walks aside.]
Hen.[LeadingHildaforward. ToMorris.] If you will allow me, let me add my joy to the already o’erflowing cup! Hilda has—[Hildapulls his coat.] I beg your pardon—Alice has promised to administer to my future joy, with your permission!
Morris.[Joins their hands.] Bless you, my children!
Adri.[ToReginald.] Dearest Reginald! The joy I have found in the new born love for my noble husbandwill make me never regret that it was by force of impulse that I was led to accept your heart and hand!
Reg.Let the agony of the past be buried in the joy of the present. [To audience.] And if you will forgive the impulse that led me from my post of duty, there will not be a cloud to obscure the sunshine of our future happiness.
Morrell.The end has justified the act.
Dol.I, too, have left my post of duty—but let the result be an extenuation of my desertion.
Morrell.[Takes him by hand.] Yes! I overlook it freely! and I feel satisfied that He, who watches over us all, will not censure us for being ledBY FORCE OF IMPULSE!