“The night is dark, and I am far from home,Lead Thou me on ...O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, tillThe night is gone,And with the morn those angel faces smile,Which I have loved long since, and lost a while.”
“The night is dark, and I am far from home,Lead Thou me on ...O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, tillThe night is gone,And with the morn those angel faces smile,Which I have loved long since, and lost a while.”
“The night is dark, and I am far from home,Lead Thou me on ...O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, tillThe night is gone,And with the morn those angel faces smile,Which I have loved long since, and lost a while.”
(As they sing the summit mellows slowly. No figures appear. At the brow of the mountain a single gleam of light pierces the gloom. It brightens rather than broadens. It has the color of dawn.)
(Azraelfades away, the sword vanishing last.)
(Dr. Thorneclimbs up, with eyes lifted towards the light on the summit, which strikes his face and figure.)
As the Voices sing:—
“And with the morn those angel faces smile,Which I have loved long since, and lost a while.”
“And with the morn those angel faces smile,Which I have loved long since, and lost a while.”
“And with the morn those angel faces smile,Which I have loved long since, and lost a while.”
End of Act II.
Paradise: A beautiful country. Trees, flowers, shrubs, vines of great luxuriance abound. Brilliant birds of unfamiliar plumage can be heard singing in the boughs. They dip, blazing, through the air. The grass is bright, and like short fur in effect. The sheen of water, like the surface of a lake or sea, glimmers beyond. Sails of faint, fair tints, move and melt upon the sea. At a distance, upon a hill, are outlines of graceful architecture. A narrow brook can be seen, with strange shells upon its little banks. There are no highways visible. Foot-worn walks and paths, trodden through the grass, intersperse the landscape. The grass, however, springs afresh beneath the foot, and is not crushed or sear. Annunciation lilies and scarlet passion-flowers grow in the foreground. Bluebells, in clusters, spring beyond. Roses are many. Flowers unknown to the botanies of earth are frequent; and among those to which we are used, it will be noticed that the blossoms of the tropics and of the North countries flourish side by side. The whole impression is one of delight and beauty. The sky has a misty softness, and the atmosphere is capable of taking on (and takes on) suddenand subtle changes of effect. It is now seen to be early morning, and all the tints of the landscape are tender and fresh.The scene is populous withbright beings. These are seen to differ from the people of this planet chiefly in their joyousness of manner, and in a certain high expression, of which it might be said, in a word, that the absence of low motive, and the presence of a sense of ease and security, are the predominant features. These beings wear flowing robes of various tints—dove, rose, blue, corn, violet, silver, gold, and pearl. Here and there one appears garbed in the color of the pale leaf, and, in moving among the foliage, seems to have sprung from it. Many spirits are clothed in shining white. Happy conversation and gentle laughter can be heard.
Paradise: A beautiful country. Trees, flowers, shrubs, vines of great luxuriance abound. Brilliant birds of unfamiliar plumage can be heard singing in the boughs. They dip, blazing, through the air. The grass is bright, and like short fur in effect. The sheen of water, like the surface of a lake or sea, glimmers beyond. Sails of faint, fair tints, move and melt upon the sea. At a distance, upon a hill, are outlines of graceful architecture. A narrow brook can be seen, with strange shells upon its little banks. There are no highways visible. Foot-worn walks and paths, trodden through the grass, intersperse the landscape. The grass, however, springs afresh beneath the foot, and is not crushed or sear. Annunciation lilies and scarlet passion-flowers grow in the foreground. Bluebells, in clusters, spring beyond. Roses are many. Flowers unknown to the botanies of earth are frequent; and among those to which we are used, it will be noticed that the blossoms of the tropics and of the North countries flourish side by side. The whole impression is one of delight and beauty. The sky has a misty softness, and the atmosphere is capable of taking on (and takes on) suddenand subtle changes of effect. It is now seen to be early morning, and all the tints of the landscape are tender and fresh.
The scene is populous withbright beings. These are seen to differ from the people of this planet chiefly in their joyousness of manner, and in a certain high expression, of which it might be said, in a word, that the absence of low motive, and the presence of a sense of ease and security, are the predominant features. These beings wear flowing robes of various tints—dove, rose, blue, corn, violet, silver, gold, and pearl. Here and there one appears garbed in the color of the pale leaf, and, in moving among the foliage, seems to have sprung from it. Many spirits are clothed in shining white. Happy conversation and gentle laughter can be heard.
EnterTwo Children.These play in thebrook, and gather the shells. They arerobed in short, childish garments—alittle frock, a little dress, both white,and each clasped by a small, goldencross.
First Child(a boy, four or five years old). I never saw such pretty shells in that other place we lived. They took me to the seaside summers, but there weren’t any there that began to be so pretty.
Second Child(a girl).Inever played withanyshells before. We lived in a street. It was dark and dirty. I never saw the sea till I came here.
First Child.I never saw you in that other place, did I?
Second Child.No. You wouldn’t have played with me there.
First Child.I like you here—don’t I?
Second Child.And I like you. I like you best of anybody I’ve seen in this pretty country.
First Child.Do you like roses? Or don’t you care for anything but shells?
Second Child(adoringly). I like roses, if you like roses.
(They leave the brook, and gather roses, pelting each other with them, and laughing merrily.)
(First Childtosses a rose over the brook.)
(Second Childpicks a bluebell, and puts it to her lips.)
First Child.No. They’re not to eat. They’re to listen to. See! I’ll ring mine. Hark! (He rings the bluebell. It gives out a musical tintinnabulation.) Now, you hark again. I never heard a bluebell ring in that other place, did you?
Second Child.I never saw one on our street.... Oh,minerings, too!... Say! Are these angels? I never saw an angel either, in our street.
(The Childrenwander away and mingle with the groups of spirits. They ring the bluebells as they go. The tintinnabulation is drowned in orchestral music, which can be heard from a distance. The theme is from Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony. Certain of the spirits listen attentively, and move towards the music. Certain others continue to talk happily, and stir among the trees.)
EnterDr. Thorne. (Walks slowly andalone. He is robed still in purple,with a tunic of white showing at thethroat. He looks pallid and harassed.He stands for a time apart,keenly observant of the scene and ofthe people, then sinks in thought. Hespeaks.)
Dr. Thorne.Children here, too?
(He looks wistfully at the two children, who are playing together at a distance from him. He picks up the rose which the little boy had tossed over the brook; puts it to his face; speaks.)
Dr. Thorne.What a perfume the flowers have in this country! This seems to be a rose, yet it is not a rose. You might call it the soul of a rose. Exquisite, whatever it is. Some one has dropped this one. There is personality clinging to it. Curious! It is as though I clasped a little hand when I touch it.
(He sighs; walks to and fro thoughtfully; does not throw away the rose, but cherishes it. Groups of spirits pass and repass. Some of them smile at him kindly,but he does not return the smile. No one addresses him.)
Dr. Thorne.I have done my share of traveling in my day, but I must say I never was in a land that seems to me so foreign as this. Nothing looks natural. I seem to have no acquaintances. Apparently nobody knows me. I have no introductions. I am afraid I have got here without letters of credit. (Breaks off.) That was a mistake. I never did such an ignorant thing before. I must say it is an attractive country, too. Everything shows a high degree of civilization, and the beauty of the place is unsurpassed. But it does not appeal to me. (He shakes his head.) ... I am too homesick.... If Helen were here, I could enjoy it.
(He strolls about without aim or interest. Happy spirits pass and repass.)
Enter a man-spirit of impressive andcommanding appearance. His costumebears a certain vague resemblanceto the dress of a gentleman and scholarof the Court of Charles I. of England.A cloak of the tint of the deadoak-leaf is clasped across his breastby a golden cross. He regardsDr.Thornewith a piercing but kindlylook. He speaks with a fine andcourtly manner, dating from a bygoneage.
The Man-Spirit.I read thee for a stranger here.
Dr. Thorne(bitterly). A stranger in a strange place am I, indeed. You are the first inhabitant of this country who has troubled himself to speak to me. Thank you for your politeness, sir.
The Man-Spirit.I was commanded. These (waving his hand toward the groups of spirits) were not.
Dr. Thorne.You look like a person more fitted to give commands than to receive them. I fail to understand that word—commanded. I am—at least, I was—a sovereign citizen of America. I was not born or trained a subject.
The Man-Spirit(smiling). And I was subject of an English sovereign—in fact, an officer of the royal court.
Dr. Thorne(without smiling). And this nation? Is it an autocratic monarchy you have here? Whatisyour political system?
The Man-Spirit.It is a simple one—a pure theocracy.
Dr. Thorne(indifferently). Oh, theocracy? That is a system into which I have never studied. I have been a busy man. I was a physician— (Abruptly.) Would you favor me with your name?
The Man-Spirit.I was a healer of the sick in my time. My name was— (Whispers his name.)
Dr. Thorne(starts with pleased surprise). The greatHarvey? Andyoudiscovered the circulation of the blood? How wonderful! Why, I thought you hadbeen mould and clover these two hundred and fifty years! It never occurred to me that you were alive.... What an extraordinary fact!
Harvey(turns away wearily). I did not think to find your education so limited. I understood you to be a man of superior powers.
Dr. Thorne(humbly). Don’t leave me, Doctor Harvey! I am the most unhappy man in this most happy country.
Harvey(slowly). Then you did not bring with you the materials of happiness. What had you? Whatwereyour possessions in the life yonder?
Dr. Thorne(solemnly, but still bitterly). Love, happiness, home, health, prosperity, fame, wealth, ambition. None of them did I bring with me. I have lost them all upon the way.
Harvey.Was there by chance nothing else?
Dr. Thorne.Nothing more, unless you count a little incidental usefulness.
Harvey.Plainly, you are not in a normal condition.
Dr. Thorne(hastily). I am perfectly well.
Harvey.You are sick of soul. You are not in health of spirit. You are out of harmony with your atmosphere. Do you wish me to take the case?
Dr. Thorne.Take the case, Doctor Harvey. Cure me of my nostalgia. Show me how to become a citizen of this foreign land.
Harvey.You know what it means to be a patient.
Dr. Thorne(grimly). I can think of no worse fate; but I’ll make the best of it.
Harvey(smiling kindly). I will undertake the case. At evening inquire your way to my dwelling. (Moves away; returns; hesitates; lingers; speaks impulsively.) Concerning the latest attainments in science on the planet Earth—they have the keenest interest for me. You have somany advantages—facilities that we never had. (He sighs wistfully.) I am told that your therapeutics are really wonderful. And the advances in surgery? Did you find them as beautiful as they are said to be?
Enter a newly arrived woman-spirit. Sheis still pale, but has a happy expression.She recognizesDr. Thorne;cries eagerly.
Woman-Spirit.Doctor! Doctor Thorne!
Harvey.Here comes some of your incidental usefulness. That is a good symptom. (He moves away, still smiling.)
[ExitHarvey.
Dr. Thorne.Why, Mrs. True! (Grasps her hand joyfully.) You are the first person I have seen—the first one I knew! But (reflecting) what has happened to you? How did you get here?
Mrs. True.I died yesterday.... I knew I should see you, Doctor. (Calmly.) I counted on that.
Dr. Thorne(starting back). Did they—you don’t mean to say they really operated on you? You were convalescent!
Mrs. True(laughing outright). Yes, in a week after you were killed. Dr. Carver vivisected guinea-pigs all that week to keep in practice. I died under the knife.... I wish you’d seen their faces!
Dr. Thorne(eagerly). What did they find—anything to justify the butchery?
Mrs. True.Of course not. Didn’t you say there wasn’t?
Dr. Thorne(gratefully). You always were a loyal patient—better than I deserved.
Mrs. True.You always were a kind doctor—better than I deserved.
Dr. Thorne.And they slaughtered you in my hospital!
Mrs. True(hurrying on). Have you seen my husband? Do you know where my mother is? I lost a baby twenty years ago. I want to see the little thing. And oh? when can I see—?
(She breaks off, with a devout expression,and moves away; joins the upper group of spirits. Two of these can be seen to meet and embrace her, and lead her on.)
[VanishMrs. True.
EnterJerry,the loafer, hurriedly andstumbling. His robe is of dull blue,something in the fashion of a smock-frock,or butcher’s blouse.
Jerry(staring about him stupidly, and with a kind of social embarrassment, as if he had been suddenly introduced into a drawing-room). Div-niver a cint in me pocket, and me hoofin’ it in this quaer counthree. (Scratches his head, and mutters unintelligibly.) ... I wondher where the ... sinsible saints I’m at.
Dr. Thorne(steps forward; speaks). Why, Jerry! How are you, Jerry? (Holds out his hand heartily.)
Jerry(staring). Sinsible saints, and silly sinners! Doctor Thorne?... Why, I thought you was dead. Hilloa, Doctor! (Grasps the doctor’s hand, and shakes itviolently. Then meditatively.) Ye took a t’orn out av me eye onct, and div-niver a cint did ye charrge for ’t.
Dr. Thorne.What are you doing here, Jerry? How did you get here?
Jerry.I was knocked down by a blame bicycle underneat’ a murdherin’ trolley car. Nixt I know I don’t know nothin’, an’ now, behold me, I’m let loose loafin’ in this quaer counthree.
Dr. Thorne.Not drunk, were you, Jerry?
Jerry(shaking his head gravely). I shwore off, Doctor. I shwore off t’ree years ago. Me little gurrl she give me no repose till I shwore off.... She died jist av the hospittle, did me little gurrl.... Say, Doctor, do ye know what’s the thramp laws in this counthree?
EnterNorahhastily.
Norah.Doctor—Doctor Thorne? Have you seen—oh, there he is! There’s me father! Why, Father, Father dear! (CaressesJerryaffectionately.)
Jerry.Och! wisha, wisha! Norah, me darlint! (Returns her caresses tenderly.) What luck for the likes of us arrivin’ emigrants thegither in this agra-able counthree!
Norah(puts her arm in his). Come yonder wid me, Father. (Draws him away.)
Jerry(looks back over his shoulder atDr. Thorne). Is it to confession we do be goin’, Norah?—the wan av us arrivin’ be way of a murdherin’ doctor, and the wan be way av a murdherin’ trolley! I’m thinkin’, sir, it’s niver a cint to choose bechune.
[ExeuntJerryandNorah.
Dr. Thorne(watches their departure drearily; turns, and walks feebly towards the brook; speaks). Now I think of it, I have not tasted food or drink since I have been in this place. I believe I am downright faint.
(Drinks water from the brook in the palm of his hand; sinks beneath the low boughs of a tree on thick moss. His headfalls upon his arm. From a distance, and from a height, slowly moving downwards, over the beautiful landscape, robed in cream white, and unseen byDr. Thorne,
EnterMrs. Fayth.
As she approaches, it can be seen that her robe also is clasped across the breast by a little golden cross.)
Spirits beyond(softly chant the Te Deum).
“We praise Thee, O God: we acknowledge Thee to bethe Lord”—
“We praise Thee, O God: we acknowledge Thee to bethe Lord”—
“We praise Thee, O God: we acknowledge Thee to bethe Lord”—
(Midway of the landscape, and playing merrily,)
Enter theTwo Children.
First Child(running toMrs. Fayth). Oh, here I am! (He clasps her hand; clings to her affectionately.)
Mrs. Fayth(toSecond Child). Run yonder and play, Maidie.
(Second Childobeys prettily, and joins the spirits above.Mrs. Faythand theFirst Childmove slowly to the front of the landscape.)
The Child.See that poor man under the tree! I think he’s a hungry man—don’t you?
(He breaks away fromMrs. Fayth,and runs toDr. Thorne;examines the exhausted man attentively, bending forward with his hands on his little knees.Mrs. Faythadvances slowly, with her mysterious smile; she does not speak.)
The Child(touchesDr. Thornetimidly; after a silence speaks, ceremoniously). Would you like a peach, or do you like plums instead? I’ll pick you one.
Dr. Thorne(arousing). Who spoke to me? Oh, it is a child. (Sinks back feebly.)
(The Childgathers some fruit from the trees, and brings water from the brook in the cup of an annunciation lily, which holds the liquid perfectly; offers the food and drink to the exhausted man.Mrs. Fayth,still unseen byDr. Thorne,stands quite near, nodding and smiling atThe Child.The Childlooks to her for encouragement and direction.)
Dr. Thorne(reviving). Thank you, my little man. (Leans on his elbow, and gazes steadfastly atThe Child;rises to a sitting posture.)
The Child(creeps nearer toDr. Thorne,and, after a moment’s hesitation, throws his little length full on the moss at the man’s feet, and scrutinizes him seriously, putting his chin into his hand as he does so; speaks sympathetically). Do you feel better now?
Dr. Thorne.Much better. You’re a thoughtful little fellow.
The Child.Our breakfasts grow all cooked here. This is a nice country.
Dr. Thorne(still gazing steadfastly atThe Child). Where is your mother, my lad?
The Child.I don’t know. I lost her on the way, somewhere.
Dr. Thorne.And your father? What has become of your father?
The Child.Oh,he’sdead. He got dead before I came here.
Mrs. Fayth(moves withinDr. Thorne’srange of vision;speaks quietly). Good-morning, Doctor. (Smiles brightly.)
Dr. Thorne(springs to his feet; cries out). Mary Fayth! I thought you had forgotten me! I have—needed you.
(The Childrises; leans up againstDr. Thorne’sknee confidingly.)
Mrs. Fayth.I have often neededyou, Doctor. And you never failed me once.
Dr. Thorne(impetuously). I thought you would have come before. I looked for you—
Mrs. Fayth.As I have often looked foryou. But I was not commanded to meet you—till this very minute.
Dr. Thorne.Commanded? Commanded? There is that singular phrase again. Have you seen Helen? (Quickly.)
Mrs. Fayth(shakes her head). Not yet.
Dr. Thorne.Have you seen your husband? Did they letyougo toFred?
Mrs. Fayth(contentedly). Oh, many times.
The Child(interrupting). He doesn’t kiss me! (Puts up his lips in a grieved, babyish fashion.)
Mrs. Fayth(very quietly). Doctor, don’t hurt that child’s feelings. He’s yours.
Dr. Thorne(gasping). I don’t understand you!
Mrs. Fayth.I have had the care of him since he came here. He’s kept me busy, I can tell you. I am to give him over to you now.... See how he’s grown! No wonder you didn’t know him.
Dr. Thorne(in great agitation). Did Laddiedie?
Mrs. Fayth(solemnly). Yes, Laddie died.
Dr. Thorne.Did something really ail him that night—that most miserable night?... Oh, poor Helen! Poor, poor Helen! (His face falls into his hands. His frame shakes with soundless, tearless sobs.)
Laddie(creeps into his lap; lays his head on his father’s neck). Hilloa, Papa! (Pats his father on the cheek.)
[ExitMrs. Faythsilently, with emotion.
Dr. Thorne(raises his head, showing his stormy face. Clasps the child, hesitatingly at first, then passionately; holds him off at arm’s length; scans him closely; draws him back; kisses his little hands, then his face; clasps him again). My little son! Papa’s little boy! My son! My little son! (Smiles naturally for the first time since he died; then with sudden recollection, he cries out.) Oh, what will your poor mother do without you?
Laddie.You homesick, Papa?
Dr. Thorne.My little son! (Caresses the child with a touching timidity, broken by bursts of wild affection. The child responds warmly, laughing for joy.)
End of Scene I.
Dull daylight falls upon a wide and desolate expanse. This has the appearance of a desert—unbroken and arid. The horizon is low and heavy with cloud, and is defined by a tossing sea-line against which no sail appears. In the distance are cliffs, fissured by dark cuts, but these are far away, and the foreground is flat like sand or ashes, or it might be corrugated like slag. There is no vegetation visible, and no sign of organized life.
Dull daylight falls upon a wide and desolate expanse. This has the appearance of a desert—unbroken and arid. The horizon is low and heavy with cloud, and is defined by a tossing sea-line against which no sail appears. In the distance are cliffs, fissured by dark cuts, but these are far away, and the foreground is flat like sand or ashes, or it might be corrugated like slag. There is no vegetation visible, and no sign of organized life.
EnterDr. Thorne. (He paces the sands, mournfully gazing about him at the lonely scenery. He murmurs, then raises his voice rhythmically, like one who quotes from an uncertain memory.)
Dr. Thorne.
“A life as hollow as the echo in a caveHid in the heart of an unpeopled world.”
“A life as hollow as the echo in a caveHid in the heart of an unpeopled world.”
“A life as hollow as the echo in a caveHid in the heart of an unpeopled world.”
Where did I get that? Oh, I remember. I had not thought of it for years. That woman used to quote it to me. She was the most consistent infidel I ever knew. She shied at nothing; took the consequences,both living and dying.... A shocking death, though! I suppose the boy is all right with Mrs. Fayth and that little chum of his. If it hadn’t been for that discussion with Harvey I shouldn’t have left him. Wishing seems to be doing, in this singular state of existence. A man makes a simple astronomical inquiry about a planet, and forthwith he is in the planet. Remarkable! (Breaks off; continues.) How magnificent Helen was about that affair. If she had doubted me—but she never did. She was superb.
Enter anEvil Spirit.Her garmentsare of flame color. Her hair has thesame tint. On her forehead blazes asingle scarlet star. Her appearanceis queenly and confident. As she revealsher face, it is seen to be that ofthe woman whose wraith has followedDr. Thorneat intervals ever sincethe hour of his death. Her robe,which is opaque, reveals her barearms and feet, but covers her shouldersand bosom with a certain modesty,which is felt at once to be notwholly natural to the woman. Eachfootprint that she makes upon thesand is marked by a small jet offlame, which flares after she haspassed, and dies down quickly.Dr.Thornestares at the woman in evidentand not well-pleased perplexity.
The Woman(speaks). So? Am I forgotten on first principles? It is some years since we had the pleasure of meeting.
Dr. Thorne(coldly). I begin to recognize you, Madam.
Cleo.You did not know it, but I have given you several other opportunities to do so since you died.
Dr. Thorne.I should think that quite possible—and characteristic.
Cleo(wincing). Your tongue has not lost its edge! I’m afraid they have not made a hopeful convert of you in yonderpious country.... Confess, you’re bored past endurance with the whole thing? (She draws a little nearer to him, but is so adroit as not to touch him. She gives him only her eyes, and these embrace him outright.)
Dr. Thorne(regarding her steadily). Did I ever chooseyoufor a confidante? (He steps back.)
Cleo(persistently). Come, don’t be cross! Tell me, then, why have you fled the first circles of celestial society—to mope out here alone? Oh, you can’t deceive me.Iunderstand—I always understood you better than any other woman living. (In a low tone.) Your whole nature is in antagonism with the very basis of existence in the state you’re plunged into. What’s death? Nothing but a footstep. You’ve taken it. But you’re the man you were.... Pouf!That’sdeath. (Snaps her fingers.) I’d wager a waltz and a kiss that you areennuyéto madness over there....Admit it? (Tenderly.) Admit it! (Imperiously.)
Dr. Thorne(uneasily). I don’t profess to be thoroughly acclimated. But I assure you I did not come here to sulk. On the contrary, I was absorbingly interested in a scientific discussion with a distinguished man. It was an astronomical point. I came here to verify it. I return at once. (Moves away.)
Cleo.Don’t be in such a blatant hurry! It’s not polite. (Pouting.) I’ve studied a little astronomy myself of late.... Come! I can converse about planets—if you will. Was it Neptune or Venus you undertook to investigate?
Dr. Thorne(not without interest). I contended that it was Neptune—before I came.
Cleo.And now?
Dr. Thorne(gloomily gazing at her). I am inclined to think it is Venus.
(Cleolaughs softly.)
(Dr. Thornedoes not smile.)
Cleo(abruptly). Esmerald Thorne, do you know what has happened? You are in an uninhabited world—with me. You are in a dead world, burnt to ashes, burnt to slag and lava by its own fires. You are alone in it—alone with me.... (In a changed voice.) And I meant you should be.Oh, I’ve dreamed of this for years. I’ve held my breath for it, perished for it.... Now, here we are—we two outcasts from the religious idea—we who always rebelled against it, by the very bone and tissue of our being.... We two (tenderly)alone, at last. (She advances towards him, and for the first time touches him, gently laying her hand upon his shoulder.)
Dr. Thorne(not rudely, but positively, removes her hand, stepping back quickly, so that her arm falls heavily by her side). Woman! Woman, what are you? A spirit damned, or a spirit deluded?... I confessI never knew. And I don’t know any better now.
Cleo(more modestly lifts his hand to her cheek; speaks gently). Do you know any better now?
Dr. Thorne(withdrawing his hand). My wife always said you were half angel, half the other thing. She pitied you, I think. I confess I never did, very much.
Cleo(wretchedly). I never asked for the pity of Helen Thorne!
Dr. Thorne(firmly). You might well receive it, Madam. It would not harm you any.
Cleo(suddenly). Oh, everybody knew you were an irreproachable husband. A blameless physician, of course. But we have changed all that. You are quite free now—as free as I am, for that matter....
Dr. Thorne(nobly). Yes; I am free, as you say. I am free to mourn mywife, and love her ... and await her presence ... which has a value to me that I do not ... I cannot discuss—withyou.
Cleo(rebuffed, but gentle and sad). I beg your pardon, Dr. Thorne.
Dr. Thorne(takes a few steps nearer her). And I yours ... if I have wronged you.
Cleo(softly). You feel so sure of her, then? Helen is so attractive! These spiritual women always are—up to a certain point.... Life is a long wait, brutally tedious. You know as well as I do how many—Now, there is Dr. Gazell. A very consolable widower.
Dr. Thorne(proudly). Oh, that was a blunt stroke.Gazell?If Gazell were a dog by which my wife might track her way to me through the mystery of death ... she might have some use for him ... hardly otherwise. I gave you credit for some wit, Cleo.
Cleo.I own the illustration was defective. But there are a plenty better. There are gentler men than you. For my part, I don’t mind your attacks of the devil. Inever did. I’d take your cruelty to have your tenderness—any day. But Mrs. Thorne is sensitive to kindness. She likes the even disposition, the patient, model man. After all, there are a good many of them.
Dr. Thorne(lifting his head). I am not afraid.
Cleo(turning away). And you? She is a young woman. It may be years....
Dr. Thorne(coldly). You will have to excuse me. I left some one.... I may be missed. I have ties which even you would respect, Madam. I must return whence I came. (He moves away.)
(Cleohides her face in her hands; is heard to weep.)
Dr. Thorne(steps back). Do you want my pity?
Cleo(murmurs). Alone—in a desert world—we two—at last. Oh, you don’t know the alphabet of happiness! You have everything to learn ... from me. And we shall never be like this again!
Dr. Thorne(frankly). I hope not.
Cleo(suddenly starting, paces the ashes; throws her arms above her head). I always said you had a Nero in you.... Oh, I understood you—I! Butyou.... It never occurred to you, I suppose, that you died on my very day? I had been dead three years that night.
Dr. Thorne(more gently). What did you do it for, Cleo? You know I warned you about that habit. You know I took the laudanum away from you.
Cleo.But you could not cork up the Limited Express—could you?
Dr. Thorne.It was a dreadful death! Tell me, how do you fare? Where do you live? Do you suffer? What is your lot?
Cleo(with sudden reserve, and not without dignity) We suicides have our own fate. We bear it. We do not reveal it.
Dr. Thorne(uncomfortably). Well—I must bid you good-morning.
Cleo(savagely). At least, I gained something—if I lose all. Of course, it never dawned on you that this was all my scheme?
Dr. Thorne(in dismay).Your scheme?
Cleo(past control, raves). Oh, I had watched my chance for years. I knewyou—your mad moods, your black temper.... Yourself slew yourself, Esmerald Thorne. Your own weakness gave me my opportunity. I waited for my moment. I sat in the buggy beside you.... I sometimes did that when your evil had you. (I couldn’t get there when you were good, you know.) I tried to take the reins.I tried to get the whip—I could not do it.I meant to hit the horse—my arm was held. (There are always so many of these holy busybodies about—angels and messengers of sanctity—to interfere with one!) Oh, then I sprang out—over the wheel into the street. You didn’t see me,but Donna did. When she shied I clung to her bit. And then she bolted.... It was a very simple thing.
(Dr. Thornerecoiling slowly, an expression of cold horror chills his features.)
Cleo(still raving). Yes, I’ve murdered you—if you will—and Mary Fayth besides. And I’ve broken Helen’s heart. Do you suppose that counts? Who counts? Nobody on earth, or in heaven, or in hell.I’ve got you away from your wife....And in earth, or in heaven, or in hell, I’ll have you yet....
Dr. Thorne(throwing out his hands; holds her off with evidences of unbearable repulsion; speaks with difficulty). And I pitied you a moment since. Now I cannot scorn you. It is too fine a word.
Cleo(more calmly). I can abide my time.
EnterLaddie,running rapidly.
Laddie.Papa, Papa! Oh, I missed you, Papa!
Cleo(starting). I did not know the child was dead! (Looks disconcerted.)
Dr. Thorne(catches the child, and holdshim to his heart; speaks). No. You only knew you left him fatherless. (With much agitation, continues.) How did you get here, Laddie? How did you find the way? Papa hadn’t forgotten his little boy. I was coming right back to you, my son.
Laddie(mysteriously; looking about). A man with wings brought me. We flowed over.... He is waiting out there to take us back. (ObservingCleo,Laddieslips down to the ground, and backs up against his father’s knees; points at the woman.) Papa, I don’t like that lady.
Dr. Thorne(cruelly). My son, I cannot deny that I respect your taste. (Clasps the boy to his heart again; then puts him down once more, and, with a fine motion, holds the child at arm’s-length between himself and the woman.)
Cleo(averting her face). I perceive the importance of the obstacle. I admit ... that to love a man who is the father of another woman’s child—
Dr. Thorne(interrupting). And who loves the mother of his child—
(Cleosobs.)
Dr. Thorne.Come, Laddie. (He does not glance at the woman again.)
[ExeuntDr. ThorneandLaddie.
Cleo(yearning after him; stretches out her arms, but does not follow; calls mournfully). Oh, if you would come back a minute—only a minute!... In heaven, or earth, or hell, I’d never askanything of you again. A minute, aminute!
(Dr. Thornedoes not return, and does not reply.Cleois left alone in the dead world. She falls flat upon the slag and ashes.)
End of Scene II.
Picturesquely visible among the trees of a grove appears a small, rustic cottage, curiously interwoven of bark, vines, boughs, leaves, and flowers—a building which seems to have grown from the conditions and the colors of the grove. The sea and the sailsshow beyond, through the trees. In the distant perspective can be seen the city on the hill; in the intervale, the foliage, flowers, fields, as before.The hour approaches sunset. A deep rich glow mellows and melts the outlines of every object.
Picturesquely visible among the trees of a grove appears a small, rustic cottage, curiously interwoven of bark, vines, boughs, leaves, and flowers—a building which seems to have grown from the conditions and the colors of the grove. The sea and the sailsshow beyond, through the trees. In the distant perspective can be seen the city on the hill; in the intervale, the foliage, flowers, fields, as before.
The hour approaches sunset. A deep rich glow mellows and melts the outlines of every object.
(Spirits pass and repass in the distance.)
EnterDr. ThorneandHarvey,conversingin low tones.
EnterNorahandJerry.
Jerry.The brim of the avenin’ to yez, Doctor! Och! but this is a foine counthree now.
Norah(happily). Me father is getting acquainted here.
Jerry.I’m about to discover where the ... angels ... I’m at.
Dr. Thorne(smiling). You’ve got ahead of me then, Jerry.
[ExeuntNorahandJerry.
Dr. Thorne(toHarvey). And why, for instance, was I directed or allowed to take that astronomical tour before I had investigated my immediate surroundings?
Harvey.A patient mayaskquestions.In your experience, did you always answer them?
EnterLaddie(running after his father,whose hand he hurries to catch andclasp).
Dr. Thorne(pointing to the architecture beyond). And those public buildings yonder—what do you call them?
Harvey.Those are our institutions of education and of mercy. They are a great pleasure to us. We have our temples, colleges, music halls, libraries, schools of science, hospitals, galleries of art, as a matter of course. What did yousupposewe did with our intellects and our leisure?
Dr. Thorne.I never supposed anything on the subject. I never thought about it.
Harvey.Precisely. You are very ignorant—for a man of your gifts. Now, our hospitals—
Dr. Thorne.Pray do not mock me, Doctor Harvey. If youhada hospital, you could find me something to do. Thehumiliating idleness of this place crushes me. I seem to be of no more use here than a paralytic patient was in my own charity ward at home. I am become of no more social importance than the janitor or the steward used to be. I am of no consequence. I am not in demand. No person desires my services. The canker of idleness eats upon me. Here, in this world of spirits, I am an unscientific, useless fellow. If you have anything whatever in the shape of a hospital, I beg you to find me employment in it. At least, I could keep the temperature charts, if I am not to be trusted with any cases.
Harvey(smiling sadly). Your cure proceeds but slowly, my patient. I did not think you were adullman. Must you be taught the elements? Our sick are not of the body, but are sick of soul. Our patients are chiefly from among the newly arrived who are at odds with the spirit of the place; hence, they suffer discomfort. Canyouadminister holiness to a will and heart diseased?
(Dr. Thorneshakes his head; bows it in bitter silence. He stands lost in thought. As he does so, sunset deepens to twilight on the land.Laddiedrops his father’s hand; plays among the annunciation lilies.Harvey,with a courtly salute, retires. He does not speak further toDr. Thorne.)
[ExitHarvey.
Laddie(breaks one of the tall lily-stalks—gently, for a boy. As he does so, the cup opens, and a little white bird flies out, hangs poised in the air a moment). Oh, the beautiful! (Catches the bird, which he handles tenderly.) Papa! Papa! I went to pick a lily, and I picked a bird! Oh, Papa, what a pretty country!
Dr. Thorne(smiling in spite of himself). Come here, my lad. (Caresses the child with pathetic gratitude.) If it were not for you, little man— (Bows his face on the child’s head.)
(The twilight changes slowly to moonlight.)
Laddie(restlessly). I must go find Maidie and show her my white bird. They didn’t grow in her street.
Dr. Thorne(anxiously). Don’t go far, my child. You might lose your way.
Laddie(with a peal of laughter). We never lose our way in this nice country.
[ExitLaddie.
(Dr. Thornepaces the path desolately; does not speak. As the moonlight brightens, groups of spirits stroll among the fields and trees. These walk often two by two. They are, and yet are not, like earthly lovers. They murmur softly, and express delight to be together; and some of them go hand in hand, or with arms intertwined. But a beautiful reserve pervades their behavior. Faintly from beyond arise the strains of the Serenade of Schubert’s, played with extreme softness and refinement, but with a depth of emotion which carries the heart before it.Dr. Thornelistens to the music. The sails quiver on the distantwater, and faint figures can be seen moving on the beach. The passion flowers salute each other. The great Serenade plays on.)
EnterMrs. Fayth. (Her smiling faceis grave, or even a little sad. She ismoved by the music, and seems to swaytowards it.Dr. Thorneholds outhis hand to her.Mrs. Faythextendsher own, confidingly. The two standlistening to the music, like comradesbereft of other ties; on her face restsa frank, affectionate expression; onhis a desolate leaning towards thenearest sympathy. They glance atthe spirits who are strolling two bytwo through the celestial evening. Themusic is suspended.)
Dr. Thorne(moodily). This foreign country would be lonelier without you, Mary Fayth.
Mrs. Fayth(frankly). Of course it would!... It is a lovely thing that we died together.... It has been a comfort to me, Doctor.
Dr. Thorne.And to me.... Helen would be pleased.... Helen might like to have it so, I’ve thought ... if she thinks of me at all.
Mrs. Fayth(quickly). She thinks of nothing but you ... all the time.
Dr. Thorne(eagerly). How do you know? Have you been there? Canyousee Helen?
Mrs. Fayth(mysteriously smiling). Don’t ask me!...
Dr. Thorne(imperiously). When was it? How did you get there? How did she look?—Is she well?—Did she look very wretched? Were her lips pale? Or only her cheeks? Does she weep much? Can she sleep?—Is she living quite alone?—Oh, how does she bear it? (He trips upon his words, and stops abruptly.)
(A strain from the Serenade breathes, and sighs away.)
Mrs. Fayth(gently but evasively). My poor friend!
(Dr. ThorneandMrs. Faythunclasp hands, and stand side by side, silently in the moonlight. A certain remoteness overtakes their manner. Each is drowned in thought in which the other has no share. The Serenade is heard again.Mrs. Fayth,with a mute, sweet gesture of farewell, glides gravely away.Dr. Thornedoes not seek to detain her.)
[ExitMrs. Fayth.
(The Serenade plays on steadily.)
Dr. Thorne(puts his hands to his ears, as if to shut out the music, which falls very faintly as he speaks). Between herself and me the awful gates of death have shut. To pass them—though I would die again to do it—to pass them for one hour, for one moment, for love’s sake, for grief’s sake—or for pity’s own—I am forbidden. (Breaks off.) ... Her forgiveness! Her forgiveness! The longing for it gnaws upon me.... Oh, her unfathomable tenderness—passing the tenderness of women!—It would lean out and take me back to itself, as her white arms took me to her heart—when I came home—after a hard day’s work—tired out.... Helen!Helen!
(The music strengthens as he ceases to speak; then faints again.)
Dr. Thorne(moans). For very longing for her, I would fain forget her.... No! No! No! (Starts.) Never would I forget her! To all eternity would I think of her and suffer, if I must, because I think of her.... I ... love her ... so.
(The Serenade ceases slowly, and sighs away.)
(Dr. Thornestands with the moonlight on his face. It is rapt, and carries a certain majesty.)
(Spirits pass. Some of them glance at him, with wonder and respect. No one addresses him. He stands like a statue of strong and noble solitude. He does not perceive the presence of any spirit.)
EnterThe Child. (Runs to his father.Springs into his arms.)
The Child.Lonesome, Papa? I will comfort you.
Dr. Thorne(clasps the boy, who seems half-overcome with sleepiness. Lays him gently on the grass). Go to sleep, my child. It is growing late. (Laddiedrops asleep.)
Dr. Thorne(continues to speak, for his emotion bears him on). I did not expect to live when I was dead. I lived—I died—and yet I live. I did not think that love would live when breath was gone. I loved—I blasphemed love—I breathed my last—and still I love. If this be true—anything may be true— (breaks off). God! It may be years before I can see her face—twenty years—thirty— (groaning)—Whencecame the love of man and woman, that it should outlive the laws of Nature, and defy dissolution, and outlast the body, and curse or bless the spirit? If love can live, anything can live. Since this is—anything may be— (Falters; glances about; findshimself quite alone with the sleeping child; lifts his eyes to the sky, and then his hands; stands irresolute. Then slowly, reluctantly, still standing manfully upright, with a touching embarrassment.)
Dr. Thorne(prays). Almighty God!—if there be a God Almighty. Reveal thyself to my immortal soul!—if I have a soul immortal.
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
(The moonlight fades into a dark midnight. The figure ofDr. Thornedisappears in it.)
(Dawn comes on subtly, but at once, for the nights and days of Paradise are not governed by the laws of earth, and day breaks splendidly over the heavenly world.)
Enter theTwo Children (playing withflowers, and tasting fruit).
Laddie.How did you like coasting down that waterfall on rainbows?
Maidie.I want that butterfly—with fire on it.
Laddie.Don’t be stupid, because you’re dead! That is a flower. (Picks a flower in the shape of a butterfly with jeweled wings; hands it to the girl.) No, it won’t fly. It isn’t grown up yet.
Maidie.Shall I fly when I’m grown up? I’ve got wings, too. (Shows her feet, on the heels of which a tiny pair of wings appear.)
Laddie(jealously). I didn’t know you had them. That’s why you can jump over things and get ahead of me.
EnterDr. ThorneandMrs. Fayth.
Mrs. Fayth.Doctor, I don’t know what ails me. Perhaps it’s a symptom—a moral symptom—but I can’t help thinking of Cleo. I wonder—
Dr. Thorne(with reserve). I do not care to speak of the woman.
Mrs. Fayth.You are right. But I did not mean to be wrong. (I think it must have been a symptom.) It’s the first time I’ve felt nervous since I died. I beg your pardon.
Laddie(running to meet them). Papa! Maidie’s got wings on her feet. Why don’tIhave some? Papa! Papa! Come into your new house. It grew up out of the woods—like—like acorns.
Dr. Thorne(addressingMrs. Fayth,looking towards the cottage). It is a shelter for the child, at all events. Quite in accordance with my present social position in this place—a mere cottage—but it makes him a home, poor little fellow!
Mrs. Fayth.It’s just what Helen would like. She hates palaces.
Dr. Thorne(starts as if stabbed; makes no reply).
Laddie(suddenly). Oh, Papa, Mrs. Fayth’s got wings on her feet, too. Her dress covers them up. I like her better than I did that lady you were so cross to.
Mrs. Fayth(laughing). I am so well!—oh, so well! I am a-shamed to be so happy! I walk on air. I float on clouds. I move on waves. All nature seems to beunder my feet, and her glory in my heart.... Poor Doctor! (Breaks off and looks at him with quick sympathy.) And yet I tru-ly think you im-prove in spirits. You don’t look armed to the teeth, all the time—now.
Dr. Thorne(smiles cheerfully). A man must respect law, whatever state he is in. I would conform to the customs of this place, so far as I can. I would do this for the boy’s sake, at least. I don’t wish to be a disgrace to him in this system of things.
Mrs. Fayth.Does Doctor Harvey treat you by scien-ti-fic ev-olu-tion? That’s a man’s way. It’s a pretty slow one.
Laddie(insistently). Papa, shehasgot wings on her feet.
Mrs. Fayth(blushing). Go away and play, children.
(The children run to the cottage. The little girl bounds before, with a light, flying motion. They play in the cottage at “keeping house,” running in and out.)
(Suddenly a change takes place upon the landscape. Its colors soften and melt. Flying tints, like light broken through many prisms, float upon the white flowers, rest upon the annunciation lilies, and delicately touch the white robe ofMrs. Fayth.In fact, the whole atmosphere takes on the appearance of a vast rainbow. Music from the temple sounds clearly.)
Voices(can be heard singing):—