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FIFTEEN CENTS EACH UNLESS OTHERWISE MARKED. 294 2 164 39 43 100 125 350 89 113 226 14. 321 272 160 268 310 161 60 342 343 152 279 173 143 162 255 300 357 311 283 117 52 76 141 26 191 362 337 194 3 9 330 261 335 349 355 46 227 211 251 163 91 3fi 34 229 298 3i_ DRAMAS. Arthur Eustace, 25c 10 4 ■A Desperate Game 3 2 After Ten Years 7 5 A Life's Revenge 7 5 Arrah de Baugh 7 5 Aurora Floyd 7 2 Auld Robin Gray 25c 13 8 By Force of Love S :; Beauty of Lyons 11 2 Bill Detrick 7 3 Brae, the PoorHouse Girl.... 4 4 Brigands of Calabria 6 1 Broken Links 8 4 Beyond Pardon 7 5 Conn; or, Love's Victory 11 8 Clearing the Mists 5 3 Claim Ninety-Six (9(5) 2c 8 5 Dora Driven to the Wall 10 3 Defending the Flag 11 3 Daisy Garland's Eortuue 5 5 Driven from Home 7 4 Dutch Jake 4 3 East Lynne 8 7 Emigrant's Daughter Fielding Manor 9 6 Gertie's Vindication 3 3 Grandmother Hildebrajid's London Assurance Legacy, 25c ■> 4 Gyp. The Heiress, 25c Haunted by a Shadow s 2 Hal Hazard. 25c 10 3 Henry Granden 11 8 How He Did It 3 2 Hidden Treasures 4 2 Hunter of the Alps 9 4 Hidden Hand 15 7 .1 o^h Winchester 5 3 Kathleen Mavourneen 12 4 Lights and Shadows ot the Great Rebellion, 25c 10 5 Lady of Lyons. .„ 12 5 Lady Audley's Secret 6 4 Little Goldie; 25c 11 3 Lost in London 6 3 Miller's Oauehter, 25c 7 i. Mrs Willis 1 Will (i 8 My Paid 6 5 Man and Wife 12 6 Maud's Peril Midnight Mistake Millie, the Quadroon 5 2 Miriam's Crime 5 6 Michael Erie. Miller of Derwent Water 5 3 Mistletoe Bough 7 2 Mountebanks (The) New York Book Ajient.. NO. M. P. ?47 Our Country Aunt 4 223 Old Honesty 5 3 81 Old Phil's Birthday 5 2 333 OurKittie 6 S 85 Outcast's Wife 12 3 83 Out on the Wo. Id 5 4 331 Old Wayside Inn, The 9 6 196 Oath Bound 6 2 29 Painter of Ghent 5 3 278 ]>enn Hapgood 10 3 301 Peleg and Peter, 25c 4 2 IS Poacher's Doom » 3 280 Pheelim O'Rookes' Curse 8 3 5 Phyllis, the Beggar Girl 6 3 110 Reverses - 12 6 45 Rock Allen 5 3 363 Stub 8 3 79 Spy of Atlanta, 25c 14 3 275 Simple Silas 6 3 266 Sweetbrier 11 5 336 Squire's Daughter 5 3 351 The Winning Hand 6 2 144 Thekla 9 4 318 The Adventuress 8 6 284 The Commercial Drummer.... 6 2 242 The Dutch Recruit 2=ic 14 3 67 The False Friend 6 1 97 The Fatal Blow 7 1 119 The Forty-Niners 10 4 304 The GeneraLManager 5 5 93 The Gentleman in Black 9 4 314 The Haunted Mill 5 4 112 The New Magdalen 8 3 322 The Raw Recruit 6 71 The Reward of Crime 5 3 306 The Three Hats 4 3 105' Through Snow and Sunshine 6 4 201 Ticket of Leave Man 9 3 293 Tom Blossom 193 Toodles 7 2 277 The Musical Captain 15 2 200 Uncle Tom's Cabin 15 7 2S0 Wild Mab 6 2 121 Will-o'-the-Wisp, 9 4 41 Won at Last 7 3 192 Zion 7 4 TEMPERANCE PLAYS. 73 At Last 7 1 75 Adrift 5 4 187 Aunt Dinah's Pledge 6 3 254 Dot; the Miner's Daughter... 9 5 202 Drunkard [The] 13 5 185 Drunkard's Warning 6 3 189 Drunkard's Doom 15 5 1S1 Fifteen Years of a Drunk- ard's Life 13 4 183 Fruits of the Wine Cup 6 3 104 Lost 6 2 .rfi +¥• Hearts of Gold. 4* A DRAMA IN FOUR ACTS. — BY John RupErt FarrBlL TO WHICH IS ADDED ■ A DESCRIPTION OF THE COSTUMES-CAST OF THE CHARACTERS- ENTRANCES AND EXITS— RELATIVE POSITIONS OF THE PERFORMERS ON THE STAGE, AND THE WHOLE OF THE STAGE BUSINESS. \ Entered according to act of Congress tn tlie year 1896 ly AMES PUBLISHING CO., in the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington' AMES' PUBLISHING CO. CLYDE, OHIO! HEARTS OF GOLD. CAST OF CHARACTERS. Charles Aigsburth, An adopted son. Lieut. Jack Aigsburth, ) Capt. Efflingbar, v Army Officers. Lieut. Wumppytut. ) Zeno, .' A gypsy. Helene Ponsifrail, An actress. Jessie Efflingbar, The Captain's sister. Polly Kissme, A school girl. Soldiers, etc. TIME OF FLA YING—1 hour and 45 minutes. COSTUMES.— English. SYNOPSIS 01 EVENTS ACT I.— Jessie and Polly— Glorious news— Lieutenant Wumppytut, Polly's lover— Charles Aigsburth and Jessie— A promise not given— Arrival of Jessie's brother — Helene, the gypsy girl, now Miss Ponsifrail, the actress — A surprise — Helene and Jessie— Charles and Helene, old friends— "I am no longer the igno- rant gypsy girl, you shall not cast me off like a broken plaything" — Zeno, the gypsy— The secret— Polly and Jack— The disowned son— The will— "It is a for- gery" — A baffled villain — Jack and Jessie — A broken promise — Vows renewed — Charles rejected and defeated. ACT II.— Lieutenant Wumppytut takes a nap— The cuckoo— Polly discovered — The violin lesson — Jack discloses the secret in Helene Ponsifrail's life to the Captain — Charles and Helene — "There is nothing left but revenge" — A wicked compact — "I will play my part as the gypsy girl" — Zeno — "Charles, you and I are brothers" — "You are Jack Aigsburth's adopted brother" — The marriage in- terrupted by the gypsy girl— "I am that man's wife" — "It is a lie, comrades, I am no coward." ACT HI. — Return of the Regiment— Charles now Jessie's accepted lover — Helene discovers Charle's perfidy — Captain tells Jessie that Jack saved his life on the battle field — Jack's ring — Lieutenant Wumppytut as a gypsy, tells Polly's fortune — Helene informs Jessie that Jack is true to her, that she was the gypsy girl, but not Jack's wife— Charles denounces Helene and attempts her mui-der— "My God, I have killed her" — The escape. ACT IV. — Polly gives Lieutenant Wumppytut a pi'esent — The violin lesson No. 2 — Captain and Jack — "We found Helene insensible, she has now recovered, but she can never be anything to you" — Lieutenant Wumppytut playing the violin for a wife — Jack and Helene — "I forgive you"— Charles and Jack — "Repentance comes too late" — Attempts to murder Jack — Helene appears — Zeno — Charles and Helene depart to commence a new life— The farewell. STAGE DIRECTIONS. R., means Right; l., Left; r. h., Right Hand; l. h., Left Hand; c, Center; s. b., [2d r.,J Second Entrance; u. e.. Upper Entrance; M. d., Middle Door; f., the Flat; d. p., Door in Flat; R. c, Right of Center; l. c, Left of Center. K- R. C. C. L. C. L. * # * The reader is suppose J to be upon the stage facing the audience. Hearts of Gold. ACT I. SCENE. — Country cottage, r., rustic chair down, l., wooden fence a', the bach of stage with wicket in c. tree near fence, R. -Time, sun- set— Jessie discovered sea 'ed.\L.— Charles smoking in doorway, r. Enter, Polly, c. e. Polly, {coming down) Jessie, I met a soldier on ray way from school^ such a line manly fellow, and such a prettv uniform. Oh ! you should have seen him: he re ninded me of dear old Jack. I wonder if we sha 1 ever see him ag un ? Jessie. He is expected here this evening. Polly. This is glorious news; why didn't you tell me before? One would think that you are sorry ttiat he is coming. Jessie. I am neither sorry nor pleased, his coming does not in- terest me. Polly. Jessie, how strangely you speak, you ought to be proud to n est an old friend. I am sure he will be glad to see you. Jessie. I am not so sure of that, you seem to forget — Polly. There, I did not mean to recall the past, but now you have spoken, I will say this, Jack is innocent. Enter, Lieut. Wumppytut, c. e., wistling. Here comes the Lieutenant, I know you wish to be alone, so I will take him away, (stops him, c.) I want you to come with me. Lieut. With pleasure, bat not until I have spoken to Miss Effl ngba-. Polly, (pu ling) She doesn't want to b.i bothered with soldiers, so come along. Lieut, {in alarm) Polly, be careful, you will stretch my uniform, Polly, (takes his sword out of the scabbard) A stretched uniform looks very bad, but a soldier without a sword looks worse— folio >v me. (waves sword and runs off, c. Lieut, (follows her) Stop ! you will cut your fingers! Oh, if the boys should see me now ! (exit, c. E. Charles. It is three years since they parted ; I wonder if she car ;s for him now? (crosses) Well, sweetheart, you seem to be lost in meditation ; what are your thoughts, pleasant, or unpleasant? Jessie. Both. I was thinking of an old friend, who has gone astray; one who shared with me my happiest hours. 4 HEAIiTS OF GOLD. Charles. Why do you haib >r that mm in yo ir thoughts? Have I not exposed his inhuman nature? \ oil m-iy avoid him by remain- ing. in the house until, he goes away, and he will realize that your lriendship for him is dead. Jessie. Then: is no reason why I should avoid him, my friendship has not turned 10 hat' 1 . Charles. You must have more pride. He did not hesitate to de- ceive you and laugh at your humiliation, and even told his friends he had c ist you oil', and refused to explain the reason for doing so. From that refusal they inferred — Jessie, (rises) Stop! I do not wish to hear more. It you have told me the truth, I have been wronged and insulted ; but he shall learn that I am not humiliated. Charles. Silent contempt is the keenest punishment a man can receive, they only laugh at harsh words. If you quarrel with him now, your fair name will again be dragged into notoriety, and 1 do not wish my wife's name connected with a former lover, (placing his arm around her) Jessie, I want you to promise me you will neither see or speak to him while his regiment is stationed at Aigs- burth. Jessie. That promise I cannot give. I consented to become your wife, when you proved his perfidy, and I now regret my folly. But fear not, I will be true to my word, (aside) Though I sacrifice every hope in life. Enter, Captain and Hellene, c. e. — Jessie meets the Captain, c. — Helene, r. c. Captain, (embracing) Jessie ! Jessie. Brother! Charles, (crosses, r. — aside) Helene, by all that is wonderftll. Cap. Miss Ponisfrail, I have the pleasure of introducing you to my sister. Helene. (kisses Jessie, r. c.) I have looked forward to this meet- ing with pleasure, and I know we shall be very dear friends. Your brother, who is very proud of you, has often told me you are the sweetest sister that ever lived, now I believe him. Jessie. I have only one fault to find with dear Francis, he is too good and kind to me. Cap. Nay, dear sister, kindness becomes a joy when affection is the prompter. (crosses to Charles Charles, (shaking hands) Captain, we are glad to have you with us once again, you presence is a pleasure, and your absence a sorrow Jessie and I have shared together. Cap. I shad stay until the wedding is over, and then duty will call me elsewhere. (Helene listens intently) My boy, you are a lucky dog. Helene. (comes down) Pardon me, Captain Efflingbar, did you not speak of a wedding? Cap, I did. Helene. May I ask who are the happy parties? Cap. Mr. Aigsburth, has won my sister's heart. They will shortly become man and wife. (Hklene gives a gasp and staggers backw ard, Captain supports her, c.) Helene, you are ill ! Helene. (recovering) JSo, a sudden dizziness .brought on by the heat, that is all. HEABTS OF GOLD. 5 Captain. Allow me to introduce you. (leads her to Charles Helene. An introduction is unnecessary, Mr. Aigsburth and I arj old friends; we have known each other many years. Cap. Indeed, I am pleased to hear it,;old friends are always glad to meet. Jessie, (comes down) Miss Ponisfrail, will you not come into the house and rest. You do not look very strong. Helene. Thank you, I am quite well now, and would rather re- main out here, the air is so pleasant and cool. Cap. (places his arm around Jessie) Come sister, we will talk about your wedding, while they are recalling pleasant scenes and old days of friendship. (leads her into the house, r. e. Helene. (with outstretched hands) Charles! Charles. Helene, I am surprised to see you again, IJthought when we parted, it was forever. Helene. Forever, are you not glad to S2e me? Have you not one word of welcome? Charles. Yes, this meeting gives me pleasure, but 1 have no desire to deceive you now, and I trust the love you once cherished for me is dead, (sits l.) Miss Efflingbar will soon become my wife. When we are married, I shall be pleased to receive you as a friend, but we can never be anvthing more than friends. Helene. You'shall not cast me away like a broken plaything, it was you who taught me the meaning of the simple word called "love." 1 will not believe it was false, that the visions you spread before me were not real. I have lived in them, struggling^ to make myself worthy of you. I am no longer the girl whose blunders made you laugh and pity my ignorance. Charles. You certainly have imoroved, but I am not in the least interested in your future, so do not delude yourself further; bury the past without a tear. It is far better to torgive and forget, you will spare yourself pain, and me annoyance. Helene. I cannot forget the joy your promises gave me; the past is still a pleasant memory, and the future is what you will make it. When 1 followed you to London three years ago, I did not suspect a our real purpose, but gypsy though I was, death would have been more welcome than the life you proposed. I made a vow that I would become your equal, and after a bitter quarrel we parted, and I was alone in a strange city. Several days later I answered an ad- vertisement for girls to appear in a plav; the manager became in- terested in me, and I accepted an offer to become leading lady in a London theatre. From that moment my success was assured, 1 soon became a favorite throughout England, everywhere I was honored and respected, but true happiness was not mine; I longed for the day I could return and claim myself your equal. Charles, do not turn from me now. 1 have won fame and fortune that you might be proud of me. Through all my triumphs, I have never ceased to think of you, to love you more devotedly. As the gypsy girl 1 am unknown, but as Helene Ponisfrail, the actress, I am known to the world ! Charles, (rising) Helene Ponisfrail ! (his manner becomes respect- ful) You have indeed attained a place of eminence, and I am proud of your friendship. Helene, I knew it, the struggle was not in vain ! Charles^ Miss Ponisfrail, I fully appreciate your noble effort, but HEARTS OF GOLD. do not misunderstand me; our lives lie apart, I sincerely regret my conduct three years ago, and I ask your forgiveness now. Helene. You deceived me in word but not in deed. Charges, I have naught to forgive, let us revive tho?e days. Charles. This is folly, have you no pride? (crosses, c. Helene. Yes, I have pride, may your life b? as bright as mine is dark! (sits l.) I will no longer attempt to break the barrier .be- tween us ! Charles. I did not mean to wound you so deeply, but duty com- pels me to speak in p'ain words, (takes her hand) You are not an ordinary woman, in time you will stifle the affection you have cherished for me, and perhaps another more worthy than I, will fill the void I have so unfortunately made, (she raises her eyes to him) 1 say unfortunate because my regret — Helene. (risers) Regrets are useless now. a woman's heart once broken is broken forever. The face may wear a smile, the voice may ring with joy, but the throbbing wound will always be there, a h'dden pain ! (goes up stage and glances off, l., in alarm) Zeno com- ing this way, he must not see me ! Charles. " (crosses, r. c.) That fellow is a nuisance, shall I tell him you are here? Helene, Brave Zeno! (to Charles) No, I cannot see him now. (hides behind tree, r. Charles. How shall I get rid of him? Enter, Zeno, l. e. Well, I suppose you have come to ask the same old question, let me save you the trouble — I do not know. Zeno. (l. c.) Why do you not tell me the truth? Charles. Wny do you bother me for information I cannot give? If you do not desist, I will turn your tribe off my estates. There is no reason why you should suspect me of tempting Helene to leave her people. It is quite probable that she has been fascinated by city life, and is in London or some other large city. Remember, I am tired and irritated by your persistency. Zeno. There was a time when Helene was tired by your persis- tency, but like a demon, you persevered and won her heart, not for the pure and honest love it gave, but to satisfy the cruel desire of a coward. Charles, (laughs) My good fellow, you will make me sentimen- tal if you keep on in that strain. I admired her because she was pretty, but it is preposterous to accuse me of loving her. She is only a gypsy girl, and I am the master of Aigsburth, and if I honored Helene, by making her my — Zeno. (clutching him by the throat) Utter that word and I will kill you ! (they struggle to c. Charles. You blackguard, take your hands from my throat! Zeno. (forces him to kneel) Where is Helene? Charles. I do not know ! Zeno. You lie ! Charles. Zeno, you are choking me ! let go ! Helene. (comes down) Zeno, iorbear ! ( Zeno. Helene! (releases Charles, who leans against door, r.) At last! (he embraces her, c. Helene. Zeno, why did you assault him? He is my friend. HEABTS OF GOLD. 7 Zeno Do not trust him, his friendship is not sincere. Charles. No one but a gypsy would attack a man unawares. Zeno Though I wear this garb, I am not a gypsy ; there is a tie that should bind you and me together. A secret is lockel in my breast, which [ may never disclose. . . Charles. There is no tie between us, you are becoming insolent— g °Zeno. What I have told you is true. Helene Come, good Zeno. I wi Jack) Io tave you further humiliation, I will finish leading the will when we 8 HEARTS OF GOLD. are alone; it contains matter that should not be known t6 Miis girl. Family secrets that would rain our name, if m ide pub ic ! Jack, (comes down) Thank God, our family hive no secrets they are ashamed of. I command you to read ! Charles. You compel me to refuse! (make* an attempt to put the will in his pocket, Jack takes it from him— aside) Lost ! Jack, (reads) "To my adopted son Charles, I give and bequeath my farm in Australia, and five thousand pounds in gold, to be de- livered to him one month after my death. To my dear son Jack, I give and bequeath everything I own in the world, with the excep- tion of the aforesaid farm and money. I am painfully conscious ol my cruel sterness in the past, to one who was ever a true and devoted son." Thank God ! I am forgiven ! Charles. I dispute your claim, for I am certain there is another will. This one is either a forgery or a great mistake has been made. Do you think he would reclaim the reprobate son he was forced to disown ? Your father cursed you on his death-bed ! (Jack utters a cry ofptikt Polly. Jack, he has uttered a lie ; I was by your father's side when be died, his last words were, "God bless poor Jack, I have wronged him deeply!" (exit, R. e. Jack. You coward ! Until you uttered the lie accusing a father i f curbing his son, I regarded you as a brother, but by your own act, you have placed a gulf between us, and revealed your true nature, a foe in the garb of a friend. What have you to say to me now? Charles. You have robbed me of that which is lawfully mine. Jessie appears in doorway. While you were abroad in the world, leading a fast life and bringing dishonor upon a spotless name, I remained by your father's side t*i make his declining days happy and peaceful. " A few hours before his death he spoke of you ; "my son," he said, "has led a shameful life, I disinherit him. Jack. It was you who cansed my disgrace, while pretending to love me as a brother, you urged me to commit deeds, for which my lather turned me from his doors. You seem to forget I am his son by birth, and that you are a foundling he was kind enough to adopt, who had neither home or friends. But let that pass, I could forgive you every injury but one. By a series of lies and trickeries, you have deceived the woman I love, and to-morrow — (crosses, l. Charles, (crosses, r.) And to-morrow she will become my wife — will you not congratulate me? I am sure you are not jealous. Jack. If she knew your true character she would hesitate to link her life with yours. Have you forgotten the gypsy girl, who placed her honor in your keeping, and left a peaceful home to begin with you a life of degradation? Would Miss Efflingbar approve that cowardly act? If you have one spark of manhood in your breast, tell her the truth, and reclaim the woman you have wronged. For the sake of the name you bear, I intreat you to do your duty. Charles. Bah ! To some men duty is life, but to me duty has no meaning. (goes up l. — Jessie comes down, r. c. Jack. Jessie! (crosses and offers hand, Jessik looks at him scorn- full)! and turns away) Miss, Efflingbar, when I arrived an hour ago, my father's servants met me at the station, I almost embraced them with joy, but to my surprise, they turned from me as you have done, in disdain. Why doe- everyone avoid me as if in fear of contamina- HEARTS OF GOLD. 9 tion ? I have wronged no one. Jessie. If what my informant has told me is true, you have wronged me, but do not think to deceive me again. I have nothing but contempt f r the man who will ridicule the woman he pretend-; to love, by exhibi.ing her letters to his friends. He is a coward, and when he again attempts to deceive her with false friendship, he is adding insults to injury. Oh ! 1 have learned everything. (crosses, c. Jack. I could not exhibit letters I did not receive ; if you sent them they were intercepted for a purpose, which has been accom- plished. Jessie, (aside) I may have been deceived, (aloud) If what you say is true, we have both been deceived. But why did you not write to me? I have waited year after 3 e:ir, but no letter ever came, and 1 was forced to think you had ceased to care lor me. Enter, Helen e. l. e., goes up. Jack. I continued to write until I heard of your engagement to Charles, then, as no answer came, I concluded you were happy with- out me and I wrote no more. Jessie. But you did not forget me? Jack, (kissing her hand) Forget you, Jes-ie, a man cannot forget the image that is ever before him. Will this marriage bring you happiness? Does not the memory ot those days, when we plighted our troth, cause you one touch of pain ? 1 have been true to the vows we made, but you have not held them sacred. Jessie. I did not receive the letters you wrote, and when they produced a witness to prove you had ridiculed mine; in a fit of mad- ness I consented to become your brother's wife. Do not judge me too harshly, it was an act for which I will never forgive myself. To-morrow I must suffer the bitter consequence. Jack. To-morrow you shall be free— it is your duty to renounce this man, who would wreck two lives to gratify his own. I entreat you, do not let one simple word keep us apart; forget that promise and do justice to yourself. Jessie. Why should I not? I have beon basely deceived. (looks into his eyes Jack. There is no time for hesitancy. The choice is happiness or misery ! Jessie. Then let the world say what it may, I choose happiness! (thrones herself into his arms Jack. Hurrah ! reconciled at last ! Charles. You in that reprobate's arms! My affianced wife! (comes down, r. c. Jessie. I am no longer your affianced wife. Here is my choice, I renounce you forever! Jack, (gaily) And a little longer, if necessary. Come Jessie, two is company, three is not. Jack leads Jessie to door, r. — exit, Jes3ie, r. e.— Jack gazes steadily at Charles, who crosses, c. Charles. Stay, it is better we should have a reckoning now. Jack. If you so desire, the sooner the better, (crosses, r. c.) I am ready. Charles. Are you prepared to return the fortune you have stolen, 10 HEARTS OF GOLD. and to forget the woman who is my promised wife? Jack. When you accuse me of s ealing, you 1 e. I have inheri ed no hing that is not rightfully mine; as for the woman you have ou - raged, by pretending to love, she is under my protection, and will soon become my wile. That is my answer, all the explanaton I have to make. Charles. Then damn you, take that! (Jack catches his hand and rai es his own as if to strike Jack. Stop! Or the memory of past wrongs mav prompt me ro give you the punishment you deserve, (releasing him) No, a soldier should never strike a de eated enemy. (exit, R. E. Charles. Defeated ! Yes, in one hour the hand of fate has turned my life to gall. 1 am alone ! Helene. [comes down) No, not alone, I am with you ? Charles. Helene ! Helene. I have heard all. Your marriage wi:h M'ss EffUngtnr is now impossible, she will become your brother's wife, and y-»u will be free. If you had married her, I would h;ive borne my lot without a murmur, contented that j-ou should be happy. But fate has inter- posed. Once more I oiler a woman's love. Charles. I entreat you to forget me. Helene. Be it so, I will forget you. (laughing) I was only trifl- ing with you, merely practicing ray art. Do you think I would be- come the wife of a disappointed schemer ? Perhaps you have cast me aside, because you still hope to win Miss EhTmgbar. I. who have loved you better than life. (shows letters Enter , Capt. Efflingbar. r. e. I shall give her these letters written by you. Charles, (snatchini them from her) Those letters ar^ mine. Helene. One of them is a letter from my mother, give that to me, the rest you may keep. Charles. I will not give it to you. Capt. Y"ou shall give them to her — do so now. (Charles hesita- tes) Do as I command you ! Charles throws the letters at her feet — Helene restrains the Captain, who is about to spring upon him. Helene. Francis, he is not even worthy of your scorn. Charles. Why are you so interested in her affa'rs *? Capt. Because I love her. CURTAIN. ACT II. SCENE I. — A room in the cottage— doors it., l. and c. — chair and table, l., chair, r. — violin hanging on wall — Lieut. Wumppytut discovered seated l. Lieut. Shakespeare says there is a tide in the affairs of man, which, if taken at the flow, leads on to goo lne-s knows where. There is a tide in my affairs, which I hope will soon be on the turn. Eng- land needs men to tight, and we poor devils aie selected. It is very unfortunate, as it will interrupt my conquest with Polly. Little BEABTS OF GOLD. Ji Enter, Polly, c. e., creeps behind the Lieutenant. Polly Kissme! {yawns) Hello! I'm falling asleep, {looks around) There is nobody about. I'll take a little nap, and if possible, dream of Polly and the-.comrhg conflict. Polly, {looking over the chair) Goodness, listen to him snoring, he ought to have better manners, even if he is asleep, {comes in front of chair, Lieut, gives a loud snore — Polly is startled and creeps quickly behind the chair again) What is the matter with his nose? The horrid thing. [she tickles his nose with a feather Lieut, {striking) Pooh! pooh! pooh! {rises, Polly hides) That- fly seems to have a great deal of affection for my nose. Just as I was beginning to dream, too. (crosses, c.) I believe I have chosen the wrong vocation, I was born to be a farmer, not a soldier. Whan a pleasure it is to hear the singing of the winds, the sighing of the birds; I mean the singing of the birds, the thrush, the "sparrow, the little robin redbreast, the cowtinch— let me see, er, is it cowfinch or bullfinch? Well, no matter as long as it sings. But the cuckoo is my favorite, sweetest singer in the dell. Now let me see, do cuckoo's sing? Polly, {aside, in disgust) Do cuckoos sing? That is city ignor- ance. Lieut. Yes, I'm certain the cuckoo sings more or less. How pleasant it would be to hear one now. Polly, {calling) Cuckoo. Lieut. 'Pon my soul, it sounded like a cuckoo. Polly. Cuckoo, cuckoo. Lieut. Cuckoo. Polly. Cuckoo. Lieut. There's a cuckoo in the room. I'll capture it for Polly. Polly. Cuckoo, cuckoo. Lieut. Now for a search. Cuckoo. Polly. Cuckoo, cuckoo. Lieut. It must be under the chair. (crosses gently Polly, (rising) Cuckoo. Lieut, (in surprise) So you are the cuckoo. Polly. I am the ci ckoo. Lieut, (struts about in disgust) Well, she is a cuckoo. Polly, (sits l.) Lieutenant Wumppytut, are you angry? Lieut. No, I'm only mad, that's all. (crosses) Do you like mv name? Polly. Yes, it's almost as pretty as mine, Polly (pause) Kissme. Lieut, (hesitates a moment, then kisses her) With pleasure. Polly. Oh ! (crosses, c. Lieut. Polly Kissme, are you angry ? Polly. No, I'm only mad, that's all. I didn't ask you to kiss me I was simply telling you my name. Lieut, (crosses) Polly, Polly. Polly, (looking doion) Well, what is it? Lieut. Polly, you are in love with me. Polly. Indeed, you might have told me so in another way. Lieut. Pardon me, I did not dare to tell you in the usual way. Polly. Then your presumption is greater than your courage. Lieut. You shall pay for your sarcasm with a kiss. While following her aboue the staae, he disturbs a violin, which is hang- ing, R. 2j HEARTS OF GOLD. Polly, (c,, in alarm) Be careful, you will break the fiddle. Lieut, (takes down the violin and bow) Is this your, fiddle? (aside) I'm in lor it now. (crosses Pulh/. Yes, I want you to plav for me. You kuow the other evening, you said you eo ild make a fiddle speak. Lieut. But when I made that boast, I was not aware that you had a fiddle. 1 mean, er, that is, er, the fiddle I referred to, is one of my own manufacture. Polly, (aside) He is telling a lie. (aloud) I want you to play for me now. Lieut, (aside) There's no alternative, so here goes, (aloud) I'm a little out of practice, you know, and it is rather difficult to play a fiddle wiih two bows. (he plays, Polly stops him Polly. Stop! that will do. I thought you could make the fiddle sptak? . • ' Lieut. So I can, but I'm not responsible, if he comes out with bad words. Polly. I will give you one more trial. Lieut. Oh ! hang the fiddle. Polly. Well, hang it on the wall. Lieut, (hangs up the fiddle — crosses) Polly, I'm going to fight, not with fyou, but with the Arabs in Africa. Before we part, teh me, do 3'ou love me? If I fall on the gory battlefield, it will soothe my last hours to think of you, to know you are thinking of me. Polly, (crying) Poor little Wumppy, will there beany danger? Lieut. Not if I can avoid it, but cannon balls are almost as hard as creditors to dcdge, and if one should come at me — (shudders Polly. If a cannon ball — should — come — at — you, you won't for- get to tell me when you write, will you Wumppy? Lieut. No, if a cannon ball should happen to strike me, I'll be by your side in a moment. Polly, do you really love me? Polly. No, but I love your uniform. Lieut, (in surprise) You love my uniform, it's not the coat that makes the man. Polly. But it's the uniform that makes the soldier, (sobbing) You are going to leave me, and I may never see you again. Lieut, (crying) Don't cry, Polly. If I have good luck, you may ie<' part of me when I return. Polly. If you come back alive, I'll teach you how to play the fiddle. Lieut. I think if 1 had it with me, I would be perfectly s ife. Pollv, if 1 come back safe and sound, will you be my wife? Polly. Of course 1 will. Lieut. You will, the:i let the cannons roar, my heart is fortified against them. (leads her off, n. Enter, Jack and Capt., c. e. Jack. I will wager that Miss Ponisfrail has given you no en- co iragement, she is an actress, and such a woman would not care 10 lecome the wife of a soldier. That is why you are gloomy. ( 'apt. At this moment I am the happiest man in England ; she not i nly cares for me, but has promised to become mine. I am gloomy nt the thought of war, which will force me from her side. *Na\- I almost regret that I am a soldier. (sits, l., Jack right of table Jack, (aside) It is better th it he should know the truth now he HEARTS OF GOLD. 13 would learn it sootier or later, (aloud) Francis, it grieves me t- mar your happiness, but as a true friend, 1 must tell you the truto concerning this woman. Forget th.it you ever met, for she is unh worthy ot you. Capt. (rises') What do you mean? Speak out! Jack. I have warned you. I do not care to expose her further. Capt. Ifyouareniy friend, hide nothing from me. If she has been wronged, I will avenge her, if she has sinned — but no, she is a good, pure woman. Jack, I implore you to speak the truth. 1 love this woman, I am a soldier and will defend her. Refuse to expluin, and I will say you lie ! Jack. Be it so, since you insist, I will tell you. Three vqars a^o she was persuaded to leave her people, by a man, who pretended to love her. She followed him to London, where she became his mis- tress, (the Capt. sinks on the chair, and covers his face with his hands) She was then an ignorant gypsy girl, she is now an educated woman. Capt. Helene, a mistress, my God ! Jack, (aside) Poor fellow, I almost wish I had remained silent. (exit, c. e. Enter, Charles and Helene, l. e., as Jack exits, they bow. Helene. Ah ! the Captain is waiting for me. Charles. Miss Ponisfrail, women are strange creatures. A few days ago, you cared for me, now you are the promised wife of Cap- tain Efningb r. Helene. Charles, you wrong me, a few days time cannot stiffle a woman's feeling, it is still tie same; Captain Efrlin>bir loves me sincerely, and 1 alone can make him happy, a* hap >y a- you could have made me — he is a good man and I will be a good wife. Charles. Pardon me, I will not speak of it aga.n. (aside) There is something wrong with the Captain. I will listen behind the door. ( exit, r. e. Helene. (crosses and lays her hand on the Captain's shoulder) Francis, (pause) Francis, why do you not speak? (he look* into her eyes) Why do you look at me so strangely, Francis? What has happened ? Capt. (sternly) Helene, I have learned of your past life. I still love you with all my heart, but a soldiers honor is dearer to him than all. Farewell ! (going Helene. (detains him, c.) Francis, do not leave me in anger. I have committed no wrong that should cause you to blush for me as a wife. Capt. W.fe! There is mockery in the word, let me go, I do not wish to cause you p lin. Helene. You have caused me pain. Why do you repulte me? Of what crime am I accused ? Capt. Of a crime that is unpardonable. In London you ocoupied a position that should cause you to shrink from all good women. You became — oh, the word would choke me. Helene. Captain Efflingbar, I am unjustly accused. I swear to heaven I am innocent! Capt. Will you swear that you did not follow your lover to London? Helene. Listen to me patiently I followed him to London, but H HEARTS OF GOLD. committed no sin! Capt. You acknowledge your guilt, I will not listen to your scheme! Helene. Stay, vou a soldier, condemn a woman and refuse to hear her dei'ence. It is but right that I should know the name of my ac- cuser! Capt. One who has never uttered a lie against a woman, Lieutenant Aigsburth ! {exit, c. e. Enter, Charles, r. e. Helene. Oh! why is the past made hideous now? CharlBs. (R. c. ) He will shun you as long as he lives. Helene. Ton know that 1 am innocent. I followed you to London, but there my folly ended. Ch irles, do not let me rest under this awful accusation, I a*k from you only justice. Tell him the truth. Charles. He would not believe me. I am regarded as an imposter, and you as an adventuress. Helene. Adventuress! They would not dare to offer such an insult. Charles. Such an insult would be merciful, com oared with the one you have already suffered. Lieutenant Aigsburth is our enemy. Against him we must direct our revenge. Helene. Why do you speak of revenge? Charles. Because' I have resolved that your accuser shall be pun- ished, (pointing R. ) They are preparing for the marriage ceremony. In less than one hour he will lead his bride to the altar. Be revenged, intercept them at the church door, and claim Lieutenant Aigsburth as your husband. Helene. Charles, you are mad. Do you think I have no shame ? Charles. You are an actress, you will only be playing a part ; make this sacrifice fo:- my sake, and we will leave England together . 1 will make you my wife, and serve you with a life of devotion. Helene. To be called your wife I would be proud, but to commit the sin you ask, I cannot. (comes down, he follows her Charles, (places his arm around her) If your love for me is still unchanged, let this act be the test. When it becomes known that your engagement to Captain Efflingbar is broken, every true woman will shun your society. Will you calmly submit to a dark future, to be avoided and frowned upon— you who have fought so nobly for recognition. Your name, respected by the English people, will soon be dfshonored, you will sink to the depths from which you rose. Helene, you have won fame for my sake, but the real sacrifice has yet to come. Lieutenant Aigsburth is my bitterest enemy; he has stolen my inheritance. Accuse him of the wrong for which he would make you suffer, and I will make you my wife. Helene* Happiness would not tollow such a sin. I will not com- mit it. Charles. Then good-bye. (is going Helene. Charles ! Charles. It is in your power to bind me to your side for life. Helene. You have made me ill ! Charles, (kisses her) Go to your room and prepare. Remember, you are only playing a part, it will soon be over, (leads her to c. e., Helene looks at him sadly and exits— he watches her a moment and comes c.) She will do it. There is nothing so strong as a woman's love. Ah! someone is coming. (crosses, r. HEARTS OF GOLD, 15 Enter, Polly and Jkssie, c. e. Polly. So you are going to be married to a real live man. Aren't you afraid? Jessie. Afraid? No dear, we love each other, and as man and wile will live very happy together. Polly. I am glad it is Jack you are going to marry instead of Charles. Deception always finds a bitter end, as he learned to his sorrow, (sees Charles) Oh! dear, there he is now. Jessie. I pity him, his position is a very paint ul one. Polly, (nudging her) Keep quiet, don't yon see him? If you pity him, console him with a few kind words, (going) I am going to pin this rose on Jack's coat. (exit, c. e. Charles. Spare your pity, Miss Efflingbar. My position in this house would not be painful, if you had not made it so ; but before the sun sets this eve., it is you who will need pity. You will be wedded, but not a wife. Jessie. I have remained your friend through compassson, but when jealousy prompts you to renew your treachery, it is time that friendship died. Charles, let us be friends. If I have caused you pain, I am sorry. Banish all thoughts of resentment, and I will for- get your cruel words. Charles. You accept my warning as words of bitterness, and ask me to forget thoughts I am too proud to harbor. You will be sacri- ficed to a libertine, a man with two wives. Jessie. Coward ! instead of pity you deserve punishment. The man you call libertine, I love ant will trust. Charles. I will not resent your ansjer, but at the alter steps, I will lift the veil from your eyes. The man you trust, shall meet his dis- carded wife. Jessie. I regard your threats with contempt, and to prove ho^v little I fear them, I oner to become your wife, if the woman you speak of, appears. (crosses, l. Enter, Jack, c. e., followed by the Captain and Polly, they cross e., Jack emhraces Jbssie. Jack. I am a lucky dog to win so fair a bride. Polly. If you're a lucky dor, why don't you bark with joy? Jack. But I am not exactly a dog, Miss Polly. Polly. Oh! you might be something worse. Capt. Polly is severe without intending to be. Polly. There you go again ; what is the use of being plain spoken if you refuse to understand, (calls) Lieutenant Wumppytut! Lieutenant ! Lieut, (outside) Coming ! Enter, Lieutenant, c. e., crosses, l. Polly. I. There was no need to shout so loud, I was not calling you. Lieut, (aside) I wonder what's the matter with her now ? (aloud) Your voice was so full of command, I couldn't help answering, com- ing! Jack. Come Jessie, this is our happy hour. Jessie. Yes, the happiest hour we have ever known. 2 6 HEARTS OF GOLD. Enter, Helene, c. e.— Jack leads Jessie off, l. e. — Polly takes the Captain's arm and exit, c. e.— Lieutenant follows meekly— Helene comes down, c, Charles crosses to her. Charles. The moment for you to decide has come. Will you make the sacrifice? Helene. To punish the man who has wronged you, I will, (they embrace) Charles, by this act, I place my future in your power. Kemember it is lor your sake, {in c. e.) I shall play my part in g\psy costume! (exit, c. e. " Charles. Ha ! ha ! ha ! the fight is not yet lost ! Lieutenant Aigs- burth will lose to-day! (exit, c. e. SCENE II.— Country church, l.— Fence at the bach of stage, with c. e. — Landscape beyond. Enter, Charles, c. e. Charles, (comes down) The church doors are open, but Lieutenant Aigsburth will not lead his bride inside. I shall deal my blow with a woman's hand, a blow that will ruin him. Enter, Zeno, l. e. Hello ! what is he doing here? Zeno. (comes down, l. c.) I did not come here to see you, but it seems we are fated to meet. Charles. I do not forget our last meeting, and I warn you that I am well prepared for further treachery. Zeno. I shall never harm you, unless it is to protect Helene, for her I am willing to give life itself. Charles. My good fellow, I care nothing about your life or your devotion, nor do I wish to be seen speaking with you. (turns away Zeno. You shall listen to me. As 1 was standing in the doorway, Helene passed by the church. Her face, usually calm and impassive, was flushed and excited, and her eyes burned with a strange unatural glare. I feel that there is some deviltry to be enacted, for which you are responsible. Charles. You insolent vagabond, go to the devil ! (is going Zeno. I shall wait and watch. Charles, (turns fiercely) Who are you that dares to spy upon my movements? Zeno. Your brother ! Charles, (in surprise) My brother! (scornfully) So, your scheme is blackmail. You think by telling me this lie to extort money. Zeno. What 1 will now tell, I sw ear to God is true. When you were a ch.ld in the arms of our mother, she was the wife of a man, whose sole aim in life was to drink, steal and sin. He was a criminal. brutal to his wite and brutal to his child. She suffered patiently for your sake, but no sign of repentance came. He grew more cru 1 than ever, and one day having felled his wife to the floor, he vente I his rage upon the child, and struck him senseless. Your broken hearted mother then made a vow to save you from the life that lay before you. One winters night she pi iced you near a cottage door, where you were found sleeping peacefully. You were carried into the presence of Harold Aigsburth, who adopted you as his son. Charles. A well conceived story, no doubt, told in gypsy fashion HEARTS OF GOLD. 17 and made pathetic, but if it is true, you would have told me before now. Zeno. I have kept your secret for our mother's sake. Think kindly of her, for she is dead. (turns away Charles, (aside) I believe him, he is my brother, (aloud) Weil, I suppose you want me to assist you with money? Zeno. No, thank God I have strength to e:irn my own. I make only one request. For the sake of our mother, who lies in her grave, lead a good life. Charles. Someone is coming this way, I will talk with you again. (crosses, r., exit, Zeno, l. e., into the church Enter, Lieutenant, c. e. Lieut. Hello ! Charles, I've just had a fight with Polly, and wou'd you believe it, her tongue is sharper than my sword. Say, can you see any cuts on me ? Charles. Only one, my bov, and that is the cut of your uniform. Lieut, Bravo! I didn't think there was a joke in you. (Polly is heard calling) Here she comes; let me hide behind you. (hides behind him Enter, Polly, c. e. Polly, (comes down c.) I wonder where cm Wumppy be? He's made me awful mad. As if I didn't know more than him. Lieut. Polly! Polly! {runs quickly to her Polly. Why do you make me excised? Don't you know that I'm a bridesmaid; yes, a real bridesrnnid, made to order. Enter, Jack, Jessie a>id the Captain — Polly runs to the Captain — Lieutenant c?-osse*, r. — a 7 l except Lieutenant and Charles move to the church door. Jack. Why Jessie, you are trembling. Enter, Soldiers, c. e., and stand r. Jessie. If I tremble, it is with happiness, not fear. Jack. Come, the clergyman is waiting. (they move Enter, Hslene, c. e., hurriedly, dressed as a gypsy. Helens. Stop ! I forbid this marriage ! Jack. Forbid the marriage! Woman, who are you? Kelene. (c.) Your wife! Jessie. Oh ! heaven, it is true! (Captain supports her, Polly l. of Jessie, Jack s. of Captain Jack. My wife! This woman is mad! Helene. 1 am not mad, but as sane as yourself. I am your dis- carded wife, and I swear that you shall lead no woman to the aher while I live. You forced me to this act. I will expose you to th s world, and avenge the wrongs vou have made me suffer! Capt. (comes down, l. c.) Helene, what mystery is this? Why are you dressed as a gypsy ? Helene. To save her I have acknowledged my shame. I am his wile. Capt. Oh ! the scoundrel ! Jack. Jessie, do not heed this woman, she has made this infamous charge to avenge some fancied wrong. I swear it is lalse! (she 18 HEARTS OF GOLD. repulses h,m with a gesture of scorn) Jessie, you do not doubt me? Jessie, i believe you guilty ! {turn* away Jack, (comes down, crosses to church door) Helene, w hat has prompted you to commit this act of madness? I have never wronged you by word or deed. Confess that your accusation is no: true, and I will forgive you. Helene. I will not screen your villainy by a lie. I have spoken the truth ! Jack, (forces her to kneel) Base woman, you lie! He'ene. You are hurting me! Capt. Release her, it is the act of a cur to hurt a woman. I un- derstand now, why you accused another of your own baseness. Thi* woman is your wife, and if she had consented to remain silent, you would have ruined my sister. (Jessie comes down, l., Charles fo'- lows her) From this moment our friendship is dead. 1 regard you as a treacherous villain, and thus do I treat you ! (strikes Jack, who staggers backward Jack. By heavens! you shall sufier for that blow! (raises hi* hand to strike, then lowers it slowly — Helene is kneeling) He is Jessie's brother, I will not strike him! Capt. If you were not afraid, you would return the blow. You disgrace the epaulets you wear as an English officer, you are a coward! Jack. You shall regret that word, (to Jessie) Jessie, I am in- nocent of this foul charge. Will you not trust me? Charles, (to Jessik) I hold you to your promise. Jessie. That promise I will keep ; I am yours. Charles leads Jessie to the church door, the Captain steps before them and stops them with a gesture. Enter, Zeno, from the church and goes to Helene. Jack. My God! she would become his wife T she faithless to me! (to Captain) Captain Efningbar, you believe me guilty of a shame- ful wrong and refuse me recognition as a brother officer. I'll tear off the epaulets I wear, (tears them off) until 1 have removed the stigma from my name, until I prove mv rig it to wear the epaulets that lay at your feet. 1 am private Aigsburth, a soldier in the ranks. Your regiment is ordered to the war; you will be placed face to face with the foe, where brave men will meet brave men. There, facing death, I will prove that I am not a coward! (to Soldiers, who are stand- ing, r.) Lads, will you take me in the ranks? Lieut, (after a short consultation with Soldiers) Yes, Lieutenant, they will ! CUBTAIN. ACT III. SCENE I. — A neatly furnished room — Draped entrance C, Jire-place, r., door l. — Jessie discovered seated, l., Folly behind chair. Jessie. You should not think so unkindly of the L'eutenant. When he returns, he will tell you many a tale of the Soudan, how brave men fought andf ell. HE A BT S OF GOLD. 10 Potty. They say the Arabs are big strong men. Now ju-t imagine poor little Wurappy lighting with an Arab. Too little to run ami too little to light. Jessie. He would not run, his pride would compel him to fight. Polly. Yes, pride is often a substitute for courage, and cowards are called brave. If I were a man, I would neither fight nor run. (bugle call is heard Jessi*. I/sten, a bugle call. The regiment has arrived, and I shall soon see— (pans z Polly. Who will you see? Jessie. My brother. Polly. (aside) She means Jack, (aloud) I am going to the village to join in giving the soldiers a rousing welcome, {exit, c. e. Jessie. We shall soon meet again, but not as friends, and yet, I cannot banish him from my thoughts. A voice seems to whisper, he is innocent, be true to him as he is to you. Enter, Charles, l. e., as she is looking at ring. This ring placed on my finger that fatal day, keeps the scene vivid in my memory. Charles, His ring still in your possession. Have you orgot h:s discarded wi r e? Jessie. 1 shall never forget her. (g'ving ring) There is his ring, do with it as you wish. Charles, (looking at ring) Mizpih, "The Lord watch between you and me when we absent from one another." (throws the rinj into the fire-place and returns to her side) Let c mingle with the ashes, and in it's place you shall wear this, (placing ring on her finger) my ring. (sits at her feet, l. Helens appears in c, e. Will this co'd reserve la&t forever? You repay my devotion with fear and distrust. Jessie. I would be ungrateful if I distrusted you, after ail you have done for me. Charles. If you still care for him, my labor has been in vain. Jessie. No, I despise him. Do you think I have forgotten the day his wife claimed him at the alter? As 1 looked upon her pale face, I tore him from my heart, and resolved to trust you. Charles. Those are the sweetest words I have ever heard, (takes her hand) Since boyhood my brother and 1 have been rivals. He won your affection, not because he cared for you, but to defeat mv fondest hope*. The first sign of his duplicity came when his father disowned him. He left Aigsburth without even bidding you goo I- bye. I convince! you of his faithlessness, and you promised to be- come my wife. But once more the tempter came between us, and a, the alter steps I was forced to expose him, to save the woman I love , (kisses her hand- Helene. I will tell her all. (exit, c. e. Charles, (rising quickly What's that? Jessie, (rising) What has startled you? I did nothear anything. (voices are heard) It is Francis, he is here at last. Charles, (aside) It was Helene's voice, I must be careful, (aloud) Dear old Francis, how glad we are to welcome him home. 1 will not remain to mar the joyful meeting of brother and sister, (aside) It would be rather erabarassing for me. (exit, l. e. 20 HEABTS OF GOLD. Enter, Jack and Captain, c. e. Capt. (embraceing Jessie, c.) Home again, sister, sate from the war. (Jack crosses to fire-place Jessie. I have prayed for you day and night, that you might es- cape the perils of the battlefield. Capt. Your prayers were answered. I have escaped without a scratch, but not so with Jack. In our last encounter he received a fearful wound. Jessie, (anxiously) He was wounded? Capt. Yes, while saving my life; but for him, your brother would be lying with his comrades on the plains of Egypt. I was surrounded by the enemy and was about to sink beneath their blows, when I saw a soldier fighting his way towards me. The sight gave me re- newed strength, and I held them off, until he reached my side, then I recognized Jack. Hold up ! Francis, he shoute 1, the boys will soon come to our relief. Give the back devils blow for blow. I fell ex- hausted at his feet — in a moment he was standing over me, and his sword was warding off the spears that were aimed at my heart. I heard h'm give a loud gasp, and glanced up in time to see a spear burled in his breast. The brave fellow did not fall, but with his left hand pulled it out again and kept on fighting, still defending me. A few moments later the soldiers reached our side. I was rescued unhurt, but Jack lay there, locked in the arms of an Arab, bleeding to death. While nursing him back to health, he told me that Helene was not his wife, and I believe him. Jessie. There can be no doubt of his guilt. Did she not prevent our marriage? Capt, Have patience, Jessie, tha truth shall yet be known. A soldier's honor and a sister's happiness are at stake. Does he look like a man who would wreck a woman's life? Jessis. His appearance is noble, but his heart is barren and cold. Capt. (aside) If I leave them together, they will soon come to an understanding, (aloud) Ketnember he saved my lite. Forget the past for my sake. (exit, c. k. Jessie. The wrong is too deep to forget, (crosses, e.) Jack. (pause) He does not hear me. (touches his arm Jack, (turning) D.d you speak, Miss Efflingbar? Jessie. I wish to express my gratitude to you for saving my brother's life. It was a noble deed. Jack, (interrupting her with a gesture) I did nothing more than my duty as a soldier. Jessie. But you received a dangerous wound in his defence. Let a sister's grateful tears repay you. If he had died, I would have been alone in the world. Jack. Alone, Miss Efflingbar. Would not the kind friend, who has twice dishonored me in your eyes, remain a true, friend ? I wish you joy in your marriage with him. His persistency certainly de- serves success. Jessie. His devotion shall be rewarded. The charges made by him I refuse to believe, but of the accusation made by Helene Ponsi- Irail, there is no doubt. She is your wife. Jack. I pity that woman, she is a slave to the will of a fiend in human form; but the day of retribution is not far off. The mask shall be torn from his face and his deeds exposed. Jessie. Your words infer that Charles is implicated in her misfor- HEARTS OF GOLD. ST tune. The proofs alone will convince me. Jack. The mystery shall be cleared and the proofs placed before you. Until that time, Miss Efflingbar, I ask you fco return the rinir I gave you. if you believe in my duplicity, it will only be a painf A remembranc *. Jes.iie. (aside) How can T tell him it is destroyed, {aloud, point- ing at fire-place) You *i ill find your ring there. (crosses, l. Jack, (picks up the ring and crosses slowly, c.) When 1 gave you this ring, it was with a sincere heart. Everything was bright and happy then, the future seemed without a care or sorrow and the past was iorgotten. I did not think, when I gave you this token of roy atiection, the fireplace would one day be it's receptacle. Jessie. Mine was not the hand that threw it there, I gave it to Charles. Jack. Let me warn you against that man. To him Helene Ponsi- frail owes her misfortune, if she is a wife, he is her husband. You have pledged your life to one who has neither heart nor conscience. Jessie. You have no right to accuse him. Jack. I accuse him because he is guilty. Jessie. He is not guilty ; and if 1 was without a friend in the world, you would be the last to whom I would turn. (exit, l. e. Jack, (crosses- slowly to fire-place) There is a veil hanging over us all, and for honor and purity's sake, duty must be done, let the punishment fall where it will. (looks at ring Enter, Polly and Lieutenant, c. e.— Polly runs to right of Jack- Lieutenant comes down, c. Let it burn and with it many memories. (raises hand Polly, (preventing him) Don't throw it there, Jack, give it to me. If no one else will treasure it, I will. Jack. Yes Polly, 1 will give it to you. (takes her hand) If I place it on your finger, will you give me a kiss? Polly. As many as you wish. Lieut. As many as you wish. Pardon me, would it not be wise to put a limit to your kisses? Polly. You forget that we are very old friends, (they kiss) Aren't we Jack ? Jack. Yes, old friends and good friends. (kiss Lieut, (crosses, r.) Isay, old fellow, isn't it growing monotonous ? Wouldn't you like me to take your place? Jack. Monotonous! I never had such a pleasant task in my life, Lieut. But, sir! I object with the greatest of animosity. Jack. Lieutenant, retire, we wish to be alone. While holding the Lieutenant off with his left hand, embraces Polly and kisses her. Lieut, (crossing to c. in disgust) When you have recovered from your kissing intoxication, let me know. Jack, (leading her to c. e.) We'll try not to forget him, won't we Polly? Lieut. Pray don't hurry on my account. Polly, (examining medal) Why, there is a Victoria cross on your breast, one of the greatest honors a soldier can receive, (to Lieu- tenant) Wumppy, what did you receive for your bravery? Lieut. I rfopived a wooden lee for niv br-iv\r r ' 22 HE APT S OF GOLD. Polly. But you can't pin a wooden leg on your breast. Why didn't they give you a medal? Jack, {laughing) Lieutenant, why didn't they give you a medal instead of a wooden leg ? (to Polly) Don't plague him any longer. He's a splendid fellow, and a brave solder. [exit, c. e. Polly, (comes down) Wumppy, why do you look so angry? Lieut, (coldly) Miss Kissme, J wish you would not be so familiar, my name is Mumppytut, not Wumppy. (proudly) Lieutenant Wumppytut! Polly. Oh, indesd! I don't care if we never speak at all, Lieu- tenant Wumppytut. (going) You needn't be so proud. Lieut, (relenting) Polly. Polly, (turning) Wumppy. Lieut, {dignified) You forget my rank. Polly. 1 know you ought to be a general, hut you're not. (trys to embrace him — he walks about the stage, holding one leg perfectly stiff, Polly follows) What is the use of quarreling. You're not half so pleasant as Jack. Lieut. Jack has something to be pleasant for. You never kissed me like that. Polly. How can I kiss you when you are running away from me. (walks the opposite way, they meet and embrace, c. JAeut. Polly, you're awful aggravating, but a fellow can't resist a mutual embrace. Polly, (imitating) Now tell me what you mean by walking like this, stiff, starch, soldier's march. Lieut. That's mv wooden leg. Polly. You don't really mean that one of your legs is made of wood ? Lieut. Exactly. One day a cannon ball carried it away. Polly. Where did it go to? Lieut. What, the ball? Polly. No, the leg. Lieut. After the ball. Polly, (crying) You had no right to trust your poor little body near those Arabs. You might have known they would annihilate you. Why didn't you run awaj r while you had a pair of legs to run with? Lieut. But there was no chance to run away. Polly. Let me see you sit down. (pushes him roughly on a chair, he holds one leg out stiff Lieut. Excuse my awkward position. Wooden legs are not quite eo pliable as natural legs. Polly, (trying) Won't it bend in the middle? Lieut, No, it's made of solid oak. Polly. Why didn't you keep out of danger ? Lieut. How could J ? There was danger everywhere. Polly. Oh! you could if. vou tried, (raises his leg and forces him over the back of the chair) I'll have nothing to do with a man who wears a wooden leg. (exit, c. e. Lieut, (folloios her) Don't go, Polly, it was only a joke. (inc. e.) Oh ! d— m the joke. (exit, c. e. Enter, Jessie and Charles, l. e. Cha'les. Francis will srl ad ly sanction our marriage, if you will inte cede in my behalf. Tell him you are my promised wife, "th it we HEARTS OF GOLD. 23 love each other. A word from you will remove his prejudice. Jessie. I do not love you, Charles, but I will be a good wife. Enter, Polly, c. e. Polly. Jessie, here is a letter addressed to you, it was given to me a few moments ago. {gives letter Charles. Po'ly, let me pay you a compliment, you are growing prettier every day. Polly. That is a stupid compliment. If a girl is pretty, no one knows it better Hi an Her.-el . texit, c. e. Jessie, (reads aside) "Meet me this evening at 7 o'clock, in th s mill on the riverside. I have wronged you and Lieutenant Aigs- burth, but to-night I will speak the truth and atone for my sins. Helene Ponisfraii." (crosses to c. e. Charles, (l. c.) May I read the letter? Jessie. Yes, you may read it when I return. (exit, c. e. Charles, (in c. e.) If that letter is Irom Helene, it would be dangerous to wait until she returns. I'll follow her. (exit, c. e. SCENE II. — Landscape. Enter, Lieutenant, e. e., disguised as a gypsy, whistling a popular air. Lieut. There, I flatter myself that I make a good-looking gypsy, and when Polly comes along to have her fortune told, she won't know me from the ace of spades. Enter, Zeno, l. e. Zeno. Hello ! I have never seen this fellow before, (touches him on the shoulder) My friend, who are you? Litut. (confused) Who am I? Oh! I'm one of the lost tribe. A gypsy only for the time being. Pass right along my friend. Zeno. Lieutenant, you are well disguised, but you cannot deceive me. (exit, r. e. Lieut. His voice has a familiar sound. Where have I heard it be- fore? By jove! it is Delvvin Sterngald, the deserter. Enter, Polly, r. e. Polly. I'm beginning to feel nervous already. I wish my fortune was told and I was safe at home, (approaching) I suppose I might as well ask him at once, (to Lieutenant) Mr. Gypsy, are you a fortune teller? Lieut, (looking up) Yo:i pale glittering orb. (aside) I believe that's the word, (aloud) Orb is a star of destiny. I see within a beautiful face, illumed with eyes as bright as pearls, and lips as sweet as roses, (smacks his lips) Again a mist floats betore my eyes. I see letters traced beneath the orb; P-o-l-l-y. The rest has been smeared with a blotting paper. Pollri. That's me. Lieut. Again a star appears ; this time a male star. I see a soldier's face— he is in love. Polly. That's Wumppy. Lieut, (grasps her hand) Seest thou yon glittering orb? (points Polly. 1 can't $ee it, the stars are not out yet. M HEARTS OF bOLD. Lieut, (aside) I forgot th»t. (aloud) To the uninitiated the stars are invisible, but to those who have dealings with the devil, they are visible at all times. Polly, (in fright) The devil ! Lieut. No, no, no ! the stars are visible to those who have dealings with the, er, with the, er, invisible. Polly. Please let me go home. Lieut. You are in love — {aside) with me. Polly. Who told you so ? Lieut. The orb, The man you love loves you sincerely. (kisses her hand Polly, (frightened) Js that a part of the fortune telling ? Lieut. Unless you allow me to kiss you I can't tell your fortune. Polly, I love you. Polly, (snatches her hand away) You love me, what impudence. Lieut. I speak for the man in the orb. If you do not accept him lie will marry another girl. Hundreds are in love with him. Polly. Hundreds of* girls in love with my Wumppy ? They had better let him alone. Lieut. There is only one way to defeat your rivals. Will you marry me? Polly, (angry) Marry you, sir ! I never saw you before in my lie. If Lieutenant Wumppy tut was here, he would give you a sound thrashing. Lieut. I speak for the man in the orb. Polly. Are you sure he love's me? Lieut, (trys to embrace her) Of course I do. Polly. If you come near me I'll scream for help, (places a shilling timidly in his hand, he trys to detain her) There is your fee. I'm sorry I came to you. (is going Lieut. Won't you give me a kiss? Polly. Oh ! kiss the man in the orb. (exit, r. e. Lieut. I've struck my first matrimonial blow, and to-morrow I'll pop the question. She was really jealous when I spoke about the other girls, (looks off, k.) Hello! here comes another woman, per- haps to have her fortune told. Why, it's Miss Efflingbar, and there is a man following close behind. (hides behind tree, r. Enter, Jessie, r. e. Jessie, (c.) Thank heaven I have not much further to go. This is a lonescme road, and darkness is coming on. (exit, l. e. Enter, Charles, r. e. Charles, (c.) She has taken the direction to the mill. I mu-t get there before her and prevent a meeting between her and Helene. (exit, hurriedly, l. e. Lieut, (comes out) Prevent a meeting between her and Helene. That fellow is up to some mischief, I'll warn Jack and the Captain without delay. (exit, r. e. SCENE III. — A room in the mill — archway overlooking the river, c. — doors well up stage, r. and l. — Helene discovered looking at tue river. Helene. (comes down slowly) I almost fear to meet the woman who will soon listen to mv confession of shame, but to-night my HEARTS OF GOLD. 25 punishment begins. The man whose honor I have sullied, shall learn the truth, and two hearts will be united, (loud knock, l.) Who is that? Enter, Charles, l. e., comes down, Charles, why have you come here? Charles. To prevent you from betraying me. Why did you sen 1 lor Miss Efflingbar? Do you wish to ruin my future? (R. c. Helene. (l. c.) When you prompted me to commit that wick' d deed, you did not think of my tuture, nor will I think of yours now. The promises you made have be^n broken; instead of being your wife I am a wretched, dishonored woman. But it is never too la'e to ask forgiveness of those we have wronged, and of God. Charles. Helene, if you betray me now you will make me a beggar. Think of the life I shall lead if you expose me. Do not — Helene. (interrupting) Think of what my life has been, and a-k your conscience if it is not I w T ho has been betrayed. Charles. Is your love for me dead? Helene. No, it is a hopeless passion, but I am as firm in my resolve to do right, as I was firm to do wrong. (they face each other Charles. Take care! A desperate man is dangerous. Helene. And a desperate woman is still more dangerous. (loud knock, l, Charles. She is here, I entreat you to spare me. Helene. I will do my duty. (CHARLES*/u'des behind door, r., lohile Helene opens door, l.) Do not be afraid to enter, Miss Efflingbar, Enter, Jessie, l. b, I made this the place of our appointment, because I thought we would be free from observation. Jessie. Helene, what mvstery is darkening your life? You con- fess that you have wronged Lieutenant Aigsburth and me. 1 implore you to speak the truth. (they come down Helene. I have sent for you to warn you against Charles Aigs- burth. If you value your happiness, renounce that man forever. I know you are his promised wife, but it is only justice to thwart tho-e who would wrong you. He has already wrecked one heart, but he shall not wreck yours. Jessie. What do you mean? Helene. I mean that it was at his instigation I accused Lieutenant Aigsburth of a cruel wrong. The charge was false, he is innocent. Jessie. Then you are the wife of Charles? Helene. Alas, I am not a wife. It was my fatal love for him that led me to commit the sin I now so bitterly repent. He accused Lieutenant Aigsburth of stealing his inheritance, and \, urged on by his promises of affection, and believing he had been unjustly cheated, consented to help him to revenge, and at the price of my woman- hood. Do not shrink from me, 1 am not so bad as I seem. I was tempted bevond endurance. Jessie. If you were a good woman, you would have resisted the temptation. For the sake of becoming a wife you consented to an act of shame. (Charles crosses to l. d.) As for your contemptable accomplice, his punishment will surely come. (turns to go and encounters Charles Charles. Jessie, that woman has told you an infamous lie. 26 HEARTS OF GOLD. Helene. (c.) I swear it is true. Charles. Do not h?ed this degraded being. Jessie. I believe every word — let nie pass. Charles. You shall not pass until you have heaivl me. Jessie, {pointing rev I er) I shall pass it it is over your dead body. (he steps aside— Jessie opens the door, L. — to Helene) If you are afraid to remain wi.h this man, come with me, this will protect us both. Helene. I do not fear him. (exit, Jkssie, l. e. Charles, (bars the door and comes to Helene) Tr itress, you have ru'ned me. Helene. If I have ruined you, I have only done justice, and with heavens help my future life shall be blameless. Charles, (grasping her roughly) I hate you, Helene. (striking him) Coward ! Charles, (striking her) D — :n you ! (Helene utters a scream and falls) My God, I have killed her! (beading over her — loud knock- ing, l.) Who's that? (loud voice without, "Open the door 7 ) I must not be found here, but how can I escape? (knocking is continued, he looks around for some means for escape — at archway, c.) There is only one way, I must swim the river. (returns to Helene — loud voices without, "burst the door oped!'' — crash Enter, Zeno, l. e., and encounters Charles, as he is running to the archway — Charles strikes Zeno, who staggers and falls over Helene, then exits c. e. Enter, Jack and Lieutenant, l. e., and come down front. Zeno. (raising Helene's head) Helene! Capt. The author of this outrage cannot be far away. Lieut, (looking at the river) Come here, quick! (Captain and Jack go to him) There is a man swiming to the opposite shore. (Jack throws off his hat and coat Capt. What are you going to do? Tne current is deadly strong. Jack. If the current were ten times as strong, the coward who struck down a helpless woman, should not escape. (exit, c. e. Helene. (reviving) Zeno. Zeno. Thank God, she U not dead. CURTAIN. ACT IV. SCENE. — A room decorated with holly— larje winlow, c, through which the snow is seen falling — door R. of window — doors r. and l % fireplace, r. — Jessie discovered near the window as the curtain rises Jessie. How silently the snow flakes fall, making the earth pure And spotless— it is sent to tell us that our lives may too be purified, and to forgive those who have gone astray. Enter, Lieutenant, r. e. Lieut. Miss Kfflingbar, have you seen Polly this evening*"? Jessie. She has gone to the village. Lieut. Alone? REAM'S OF GOLD, 27 Jessie. Yes, all alone. Lieut. I'll go and meet her on the road. (is going Jessie. Lieutenant, (he turns to her) Have you delivered my message? Lieut. Yes, and in return, Miss Ponisfrail begged me to think yon f,f your kindness. Her health is improving steadily, hut she is still very weak and pale. Ah! if sincere repentance is a punishment, she deserves to be forgiven. Jessie, What right have we to refuse forgiveness, if we are good and pure, it is because temptation has never been thrown in our way. ( exit, l. e. Lieut, (c.) That girl has a heart of gold, faithful to friends and generous to foes. Enter, Polly, r. c. e. Now if Polly possessed such a loving nature, I'd leave the army and become a husband. Polhj. Hello! Wumppy. (comes down, r. c. Lieut. Polly, you are li^e a sweet little "bird without wings. Polly. Am 1 ? My feet are awful cold, and my fingers are frozen carrying this present for you. Lieut. A present for me, what is it? Polly. Oli ! something to keep your affection cool. You must keep it next to your heart if you can. {changes ice from hand to hand Lieut. It shall remain there forever. Now let me see it. Polly. No, you must feel it's influence first, Unbutton your coat, I can't hold it much longer. Lieut. Let me hold it for you. Polly. Do you want the present? Lieut. I should say I do. Polly. Well, here it is. (slips the ice down his breast and falls back laughing Lieut, (startled) What is it ? Polly. Ice. Lieut. Ice ! Gasps with the cold aud capers about while trying to grasp the ice, which slips out of his reach — trys to shake it down his trousers. Polly. Why don't you take it out? Lieut. How can I when it's melted. (moves about awkardly Polly. It was only a piece of ice. Lieut. Only a piece of ice. (coughs) I tell you, Miss Kissme, for a girl of sixteen, you are rather too forward to a man of nineteen, and a soldier, too. Polly. To the extent of wearing a uniform without which the man would be missing. You a soldier, you are nothing but a bundle of vanity well decorated. Lieut. I suppose you'll compare me to a peacock next. Polly. That would be an injustice to the peacock. His feathers are his own, while you are str tiding about in borrowed plumes. Lieut. Stop, or you'll make me angry, (moves about awkardly) I'm no peacock. Polly. You walk more like a crow. Lieut. Call me a blooming sparrow and make the list complete. Polly. In size the comparison would be equal, but the soarrow 28 HEARTS OF GOLD. possesses a degree of manliness, while you have none. Lieut. If you were an Arab instead of a girl, I'd have satisfaction. {fences with imaginary f>e Polly, (takes down foils, which are hanging over fire-place) If you are so anxious to fight, just imagine that I am an Arab, (giving foil) And I will do the same. Lieut. What the devil is she up to now? Polly. There must be no bloodshed, but a* many hard knocks as you please. Are you ready ? Lieut, (aside) If this girl is to be my wife, I can't begin to tame her too soon, (aloud) Miss Kissme, for your manly conduct, 1 am going to administer a severe rebuke. Polly. You would if you could. Lieut. I'll triffle with you no longer, (they fence, Polly strikes him on the head, he drops his foil and places his hand on the injured part) Just like a woman, always in the wrong place. Polly, (hangs the foils on the wall again) You can't fight, you're only a pretender, Mr. Wumppytut. Lieut. Mr. Wumppytut. Young lady, please remember that I am a Lieutenant. It's not pleasant to be torced to remind people of one s rank. Polly. It's a rank injustice, Mr. Wumppytut. Lieut. Recollect, I have a title. Polly. You needn't be so disagreeable. Mr. Wumppytut, we had better part. Lieut. I agree with you, but before we sever our friendship, allow me to give you an invitation to my wedding. Polly. Your wedding? Who are you going to marry ? Who is she? What is she? Where is she? Answer me quick, (quietly) But why should I care who you marry, it's nothing to me. (aside) I've misled him. Lieut. I thought perhaps you would like to watch the ceremony, it will be grand. Polly. Oh ! I shall be there, and when you are married, I shall have the pleasure of inviting you to my wedding. Lieut. Your wedding? Polly. I thought perhaps you would like to watch the ceremony, it will be grand. Lieut, (aside) I've lost her. (aloud) Who are you going to marry? Who is he? What is he? Where is he? Answer me quick. Polly. Do you want to k'low? Lieut. Yes. Polly. You. Lieut. Me. (they embrace) tVe're as happy as pigs in clover. Polly, (snatches herself away) Such a comparison is decidedly stupid. (takes down violin and how, which are hanging, l. Lieut. What's the matter now. One-half of a woman's life is spent in finding fault with other people. Polly. I suppose you didn't know any better, so I'll forgive you. (goes to h>m Lieut. (aside) That d— d old fiddle again, (aloud) Polly, name the wedding day. Polly. One month from to-day. JJeut. (embraces her with the fiddle bd'wten them) Solendid. HEARTS OF GOLD. 29 Polly. Look out, you're squeezing too hard. Lieut. What, you ? Polly. No, the fiddle. Lieut. Well, are you going to allow a fiddle to come between us? I'll give you five pounds for it. Polly. If I sell it, what will you do with it? Lieut. Smash it. Polly. I won't sell it. Now listen, I have named the wedding day, but there is a condition you did not give me time to ?peak of. Lieut. And the condition ? Polly. Is that you will practice fifteen minutes without stopping. Lieut. In other words, I must inflict upon myself fifteen minutes of torture, that is liable to drive me insane, and drive other people out of the house. Polly, {gives violin and bow) You remember the first lesson. (imitating) Draw your bow thus, (crosses to l. c.) If you stop paying only for a moment, I shall know. I want you to learn the minstrel boy. (exit, R. c. e. Lieut, (playing) If the minstrel boy could only see me now. Draw your bow thus. Enter, Jack and Captain, r. e. Jack, (as they become seated, r.) There goes the Lieutenant fid- dling awav for dear life. Capt. The poor fellow would rather face a regiment of soldiers. Lieutenant continues playing, they gradually become nervous and ex- change seats. Jack. Confound that fiddle. Capt. Confound the man who is playing it. (they resume the con- versation for a few moments, Captain rises) We must silence him bomeway. Jack. I say old fellow, are you making this horrible noise simply for our amusement? Lieutenant looks at them and nods Ms head— they place their fingers in their ears. Capt. Whit shall we do with him? Jack. Suppose we throw him through the window? Capt. Anyway to get rid of him. They run him of l. v.— note, while the Lieutenant is off the stage he must continue playing the violin loud enough to be heard by the au- dience until he comes on again. Jack. Music hath charms to sooth the savage breast, but when it comes from a fiddle in the hands of a novice, it irritates the savage breast (goes to window, Captain stts, R.) How splendid and bright everything looks. Just the night for a good fight with snowballs. Hello! here comes a crowd of boys, now for some fun. (crosses to door, R. c.) Francis, are you coming? Capt. Where to? Jack. Outside. Capt. What for? Jack. Play snowball. (Captain looks at him) Come on, have lots of fun. * 80 HEARTS OF GOLD. Capt. No, thanks. Jack. Keep the door open, I may be forced to run. (exit, r. e. Capt. Three months ago to-night we found Helene lying insensi- ble in the mill, struck down b} r a cowards hand, as the mark on her face proves. I have sought in vain for the wretch, who dealt the blow, but he is protected by her silence. She will not disclose his name, nor does she desire his punishment. Her life is full of mystery, but somehow I cannot think of her but as a good, pure woman. (loud noise without Enter t Jack, e. e., covered with snow. Jack. Good-nis:ht, boy's, good-ni of my crime, taunt me in my misery. If you had not come b:ick to A : gsburth, 1 would not stand here to-night a murderer. But now I am a criminal ; one more crime will not make me any worse. 1"11 kill you and satisfy a life long hatred. [a violent struggle, in which Jack is forced backward on the table, R.' Enter, Helene, r. e., as Charles raises knife to stab, the knife fall* from his hand and he sinks on his knees with bowed head — Jack leads Helene off l. e. He-enter, Jack, l. e., comes down a, Charles rises and sits r. Charles. I cannot commit another crime. Enter, Zeno, r. c.e.— Jack picks up the,knife and offers it to Charles Jack. Take it and tell me what turned your treacherous blade aside? Zeno. (comes between them) Lieutenant, that knife, surely? (looks at Charles Jack. Do not be alarmed Zeno. it is only another attempt to mil- der. Zeno. (takes the knife from Jack, who crosses l., Zexo gazes sternly at Chari e* and throws the knife at his feet) CowarJ ! Charles. Zeno, are you in league against me with the rest? Zeno. No, but 1 regret such a man is my brother. (goes up, c Enter, Lieutenant, l. e. Lieut, (aside) Hello! that gypsy fellow has ventured here again. This time 1 will expose him for his boldness. ( to Jack) I'm going to give you a big burprise, watch me. (to Zeno) My good fellow, have you ever served as a soldier in the English army ? (Charles rises Zeno. (is startled) No. Lieut, That is false, (snatches wig off his head) Lieutenant look, Delwin Sterngarld, the deserter stands before you. Jack, (surprised) Delwin. Zeno. (with bowed head) It has come at last" (to Charles) Brother, is this your work? Charles. No, Zeno, I swear it is not. Jack, (crosses to Zeno, Lieutenant l. c.) Have no fear, Delwin, no one here will betray you. Lieut. Lieutenant, he is guilty of an act of insubordination, he felled a superior officer to the ground. Jack. It was an act of manhood, not insubordination, the man wiio will hesitate to defend his mother's name, is not fit to wear the uniform of a soldier. Delwin shall justify himself by explaining the aflair from beginning to end. Lieut. Let him do so if he can. Zeno. I can and will. When I was sixteen years old my mother died, leaving me to the care of a father, whose life was marked by sin and dissipation. A criminal who forced his boy to follow in his path . We were both arrested and imprisoned— his term was ten years, mine was three, which I have served. When I received my discharge, I learned that my father had been shot, Avhile trying to escape. 1 en- listed as a soldier, and at the end of two years, was made a sargeant. The vow made to my dying mother was kept. I had won the friend-* 34 HEARTS OF GOLD. ship of every man in the regiment but one, the officer who com- manded us. He learned of the past, which I thought was buried, and one evening uenounced me as a jail bird before the comrade?, I had grown to love. Not content with humiliating me, he reoal.ed the crimes my father had committed, I could not deny them. But when he abused my mother's name, I could restrain myselt no longer, I sprang upon him and felled him to the ground. I was seized and cast into prison. At last I contrived to escape, and before two hours had passed, I knew I was being hunted down like a dog. One morn- ing 1 sank exhausted on the roadside; when [ awoke, a gypsy girl was bending over me. She assisted me to the camp, where her peo le received me with open arms, and I became one of them , a gypsy. Soon after, the girl who was idolized by every person in theV.amp, lollowed that man to London, {points at Charles) From paper- in my possession, I learned that he was my brother, but known t> every one as the adopted son of Harold Aigsburth. My story is tol I. (Charles takes seat, r. Jack, (to Lieutenant) Do you still believe it is your duty to arrest him? Lieut. No. (to Zeno) Delwin, I would not betray you now, even for the Queen of England. Zeno. Lieutenant, I thank you. (Lieutenant and Jack converse, l., Zeno crosses to Charles)" Charles, I know you wish we ha I never met, but you are my brother and I love you for our mother's sake. I shall soon leave England for America, and you will hear ot me no more. Charles. Don't go away Zeno, stay by the side of your worthless brother. Ztno. I will on one condition, you must make Helene your wife. Enter, Helene and Polly, l. e. — Polly goes to Lieutenant, Jack leads Helene to Zeno. Enter, Jessie and Captain, r. e., and cross c— -Jack goes to Jessje. Charles. She is alive? Zeno. Yes. (leads her to htm Charles. Thank God! thank God! He'ene, will you forgive a penitent? Helene. I forgive you freely. Charles. We will begin a new life together, (to Zeno) Come Zeno, our place is not here. (leads her to door, r. c, Zeno jollows Helene. (to all) Good-bye. (they exit, r. c. e. Zeno. Good night. (exit, r. c. e. Jessie and Jack, c, Captain at r. of window, Polly and Lieuten- ant, l. c. Jack, (embracing Jessie, Lieutenant embraces Polly) They will never cause you unhappiness again. Charles leads Helene by the window, slowly, followed by Zeno, who waves an adieu, Capt* Farewell forever. CUBTAIN. THE end. The Wood Fairies. AN ARBOR DAfENTERTAINMENT, — BY — Mrs. Arzalea Hunt. This piece was written especially for school children — to be used on Arbor Day. Teachers have long felt the want of something suitable for this occasion. This exercise can be ar- ranged to suit your wants. If you desire more music, songs suitable can be introduced between the coming of the Fairies. When the Oak is represented, someone takes a branch from each Fairy. The number of pupils is immaterial. Every teacher s':ould see a copy of this piece. Price 25 cts. A Visit from Mother Goose and her Family. by Mrs. Arza lE a Hunt. ~ A discriptive Pantomime Play. Time, one hour. Characters:— Mother Goose— Old King Cole— Old Mother Hubbard— Daffy Down Dilly— Little Boy Blue Peter Pumpkin Eater and wife— Little Bo-peep— Miss Muff et— Simple Simon— Humpty Dumpty— Little Jack Horner — Jack and Jill, and etc. This piece can be represented by grown persons, mak- ing it very amusing, as well as by children. Costumes are given. Just the piece to help out your entertainment. Price 25 cts. Quotation Book. A large collection of choice quotations, alphabetic- ally arranged. Price 25 cts. ©®@@©©©<5©©©©©©©©®©©©©©©©©©©©©©©© ©©© ©©©©©©©© POPULAR 5©©©©©©©©©©©©©©© T MUSIC ! A Health to Our Hostess. A Male Quartette. Words by W. H. Spangler, Jr.; mu- sic by F. O. Wilson, This Quartette is sure to please all who order it. Can be sung in costume or used for a concert piece. Price. 40 cents. Dere Vas Ein Leetle Deitcher Gal. A capital Dutch song for male voices. Words by W. H. Spangler, Jr.; music by F. O. Wilson. Can be used as a solo or solo and chorus. Price, 30 cents. My Name Vas Henrich Hans. A roaring Dutch song by the above authors; and is oj moderate difficulty. Price, 30 cents. Here You Behold Us. Male Quartette by the above authors. Still another of the excellent pieces written by these popular authors. Price, 40 cents. We are Jolly Fellows. jQuartette for male voices by the above authors. Not diffi- cult,but will please all ivho purchase it. Price,30 cents. That Little Black Mustache. Comic Song and Chorus, by James M. Dow. Very talcing and a great success. Price, 30 cents. Fayette Waltz. For piano or organ, by Will Reynolds. Easy and very pretty. Price, 25 cents. Wait tor the Turn of the Tide. Arranged as a Quartette by Will Reynolds. Very suita- ble for exhibitions, as it is easy and at the same time, very pleasing. Price, 30 cents. ^•TRIXIE :*> -OR- The Wizard of Fogg Island. A drama in 3 acts, by Bert C. Rawley, for 6 male and 3 female characters. Costumes to suit charac- ters. Time of playing, 1 hour and 30 minutes. tTHOPSm OF STENTS. ACT I. Scene /—Webber mamion-Mr, and Mra. Webber discus* tbe future welfare of th*ir son, Kins— Kins and Jennie return from a pleasure triD— Tfao Wizard's prediction— Anthony Webber makes a discover?— The seeret— "Thera is only one witness to my crime! "— A giimnse of the past— The fatal card— "I must find a way ef escape." Scene II— Fogg Island— The Wizard s cave— Little Tnxie —A song bring* fond memories— A discontented lady— A f ither's good advice— An Irishman's idea— The lost locket— The loser loses his head. Scene III.— Webber mansion— Terry and Penny Ante have an interview— Surprised— Father and daughter— The sacred promise— The living witness— The Wizard appears AC L' II. Scene /.—Wizard's eave— Teny and Penny a?-rive— Penny's libber out of order— The Wizard's soliloquy— Trine and the wo mded man— The dismay of the Wizard— King Webber— Ter^y is puzzled— Clifford Ellison arrives— His resolve —A giimnse of the past— "Who is this man?''— The attempted murder — Trixie on deck— Foiled. Scene II— (lapse of 1 month*— Webber's mansion— Penny's dis- ordered libber— Terry's little scheme— Ellison's presentiments— Mother and son— A mother's pleading— The secret— "It ismurde-, my son!" — The Wizard appears — "No, my friend, your father is innocent '—" May God bless you." ACT III.— Webber mansion— The answer given, "No!"— Ellison threatens— Despair— Tbe erideace destroyed— "Warner Webber lives 1"— Foiled— Jennie's flight— The Wizard'3 Daughter— United at last Price 15cts A $10,000 Wager. Farce in 2 acts, by I. M. G. Wood, 4 male, 2 female characters. Time, 30 minutes. Miss Clara Farly, Judge Flint's neice, wages $10,000 that he will give his con- sent to the marriage of his neice, Minnie, to Walter Bland, whom he has refused to accept as her suitor. The means she takes to obtain the wager is very amus- ing. The characters are all good, will make a good after piece* Price 15cts, Bijou Make-Up Bdx, This is without doubt, the most complete article for the price, ever put on the market. Contains 8 sticks grease paint; 1 box Multiform Powder, 1 Box Multiform Cream, 1 box Kouge, 1 stump for lining, 1 stick lip Rouge, 1 Hares' foot and 1 Powder Puff. Put up in fancy colored boxes. Price 11.50. Exavia Cream Make-Up Box. Contains a box of Cream Sticks, containing the follow" ing colors: Two shades of Flesh, 1 Black, 1 Brown, 1 Lake' 1 Crimson, 1 White, 1 Carmine, and a color for Shading Wrinkles. Price $1.00. Little Gem Make-Up Bdx, CONTAINS FIVE LINING COLORS. 1 White Stick. 1 Carmine Stick. " Black " " Grey " Flesh " ! '* Box Cork. Pk'g Nose Putty. " Stick Cocoa Butter. This box is intended to fill the demand for a cheaper Make-Up Box. Amateurs will find it an improvement over most Make-Up Boxes, as it contains the colors most used, with the addition of Cork, Nose Putty and Cocoa Butter. Price 50 cts. Cream StiGk Paints. No i_Very Light Flesh Color. No. 10-Sallow, for Old Age. '•I ' IZNatSrll^rT COl ° r - » itSSvSf Healthy. « JZrJStJ.?? I For Juvenile Heroes. « IS- " ^^^hade. « 5_Deeper Shade, \ 4-G.psy Flesh Color. «• 6-Healthy Sunburnt. " 15— O thell °- « 7 _ « « Deeper Shade. " 16— Chinese. " 8-Sallow for Young Men. " 17— Indian. « 9— Healthy Color for Middle Age. " 18— East Indian. " 19— Jap. Done up in sticks 4 inches in length, at 25 cents each. Lining Colors 4 inches long at 10 cents each, except Car- mine which is 15 cents. ^•STUB;-^ -OR- The Fool from Boston. A. Farce Comedy in 4 acts, by Charles O. W illard, for 8 male and 3 female characters. Time, 1 hour and 30 minutes. - -^_ _ _ __ _ _ __ __ ___ ___ __ ___ ______^______^______^^_ — SYNOPSIS OF EVENTS. ACT I.— The outing— Stub— The beast— Arrival of the fool- Helen and her thoughts— The villain appears — Logan Marsh — The dastardly attempt to steal the papers — The fool on deck. ACT II. — Scene 1st. — Welcome Hotel — The Conspirators — The bum — Stub and the bum come to an uii erstanding — Scene 2nd.— The scheme progressing — Scene Sd. — Home of Logan Marsh — Tha Squire tries his hand — Ditto Stanley — Arrival of Simon and the bum— "Then I'll doit myself" — Change of feeling — Narrow esoape of Jack — Stub to the rescue. ACT III.— Scene 1st.— Home of Squire North— Foolish Jake — Count de Kejaux — Suspicions — Suspicion satisfied— A new plot — The invitation— Scene 2nd.— Foolish Jake— Stub— "H^ wouldn't have to ask twice" — Jack — "I take you at your word" — "Prepar- ing to meet the schemers — Scene Sd.— The reception and ball — The guests arrive — The Count de Bejaux — The plot — Departure ot guests— Stub remains— "Help! help!"— Harry and Fred on deck —"Yes there is"— "Says she"— "Who are you?"— "Jack Curtis, the fool from Boston." ACT IV.— Scene 1st.— Home of Stub— The clock and the docu- ments — The old lawyer— The murder — "I will kill him"— Scene 2nd. — Helen— The old lawyer again— "To the Tillage"— Scene 3d. — Home of Squire North — The fugitive — The dark room — The old lawyer takes a hand— "Yes you will write" — Death of Stanley— The fool from Boston— Happy final. Price 25cts. The Girl from the Midway. A farce-comedy in 1 act by Barnard Francis Moore, for 3 male and 2 female characters. This is a roaring farce, has a good Irish character. The girl from the Midway Plaisance is one of the Algeria dancing girls, whom Mr. Bradford fell in love with, and as a married man, got himself into trouble, but was finally helped out by the girls husband. Time, 1 hour. Price 15c. ^•Hearts of Gold. 4* A drama in 4 acts by John Rupert Farrell, for 5 male and 3 female characters. Costumes English. Time of playing 1 hour and 45 minutes. SYNOPSIS 01 EVENTS. ACT I.— Jessie and Polly— Glorious news— Lieutenant Wumppytut, Polly's lover— Charles Aigsburth and Jessie— A promise not given — Arrival of Jessie's brother — Helene, the gypsy girl, now Miss Ponsifrail, the actress — A surprise — Helene and Jessie— Charles and Helene, old friends— "I am no longer the igno- rant gypsy girl, you shall not cast me off like a broken plaything" — Zeno, the gypsy — The secret — Polly and Jack — The disowned son — The will — "It is a for- gery"— A baffled villain — Jack and Jessie— A broken promise— Vows renewed— Charles rejected and defeated. ACT II. — Lieutenant Wumppytut takes a nap — The cuckoo — Polly discovered — The violin lesson — Jack discloses the secret in Helene Ponsifrail's life to the Captain— Charles and Helene — "There is nothing left but revenge" — A wicked compact— "I will play my part as the gypsy girl"— Zeno— "Charles, you and I are brothers"— "You are Jack Aigsburth's adopted brother" — The marriage in- terrxipted by the gypsy girl — "I am that man's wife" — "It is a lie, comrades, I am no coward." ACT III. — Return of the Regiment — Charles now Jessie's accepted lover— Helene discovers Charle's perfidy — Captain tells Jessie that Jack saved his life on the battle field— Jack's ring— Lieutenant Wumppytut as a gypsy, tells Polly's fortune— Helene informs Jessie that Jack is true to her, that she was the gypsy girl, but not Jack's wife — Charles denounces Helene and attempts her murder — "My God, I have killed her"— The escape. ACT IV. — Polly gives Lieutenant Wumppytut a present— The violin lesson No. 2 — Captain and Jack — "We found Helene insensible, she has now recovered, but she can never be anything to you" — Lieutenant Wumppytut playing the violin for a wife — Jack and Helene — "I forgive you"— Charles and Jack — "Repentance comes too late" — Attempts to murder Jack — Helene appears — Zeno — Charles and Helene depart to commence a new life — The farewell. Price 15 cts» The Cricket on the Hearth. jkSSsS&S Smith; 6 male and 6 female characters. Costumes modern. Three interior scenes. Time of representation 2 hours. A beautiful little play. Caleb Plum- mer is a favorite part with Joseph Jefferson, yet can be played with good effect by amateur comedians. ACIirvUf fUt intri!/ n A comedy in 1 act, for 5 female characters. illc?n IfllSlTRKP One interior scene. Costumes modern and WIIQIIl III IUIUI1U. old fashion^. Time of performance 40 minutes. Very good for a school exhibition. Miss Penelope Perfect, the lead- ing part is an uproariously amusing comedy character. A Victim of Woman's Rights. !<• A monologue by Nellie Locke. Mrs. Peck, ho is a woman suf- fragist, leaves her home and baby in care of her husband, while* she attends conventions, clubs, etc. His experience with the b;iby and tending to the household duties prove almost too much for his temper. Order a copy and read his experience. "What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander" in this case. AniEs' Plays — G antiniiBrL 146 Our Awful Aunt i i 53 Out in the Streets 6 4 51 Rescued 5 3 59 Saved 2 3 102 Turn of the Tide 7 4 63 Three Glasses a Day 4 2 62 Ten Nights in a Bar-Room... 7 3 58 Wrecked 9 3 COMEDIES. 324 A Day In A Doctor's Office,.. 5 1 136 A Legal Holiday i 3 168 A Pleasure Trip 7 3 124 An Afflicted Family 7 5 257 Caught in the Act 7 3 248 Captured 6 4 178 Caste 5 3 176 Factory Girl 6 3 207 Heroic Dutchman of '76 8 3 t99 Home 4 3 174 Love's Labor Not Lost 3 3 158 Mr. Hudson's Tiger Hunt 1 1 149 New Years in N. Y 7 6 37 Not So Bad After All 6 5 237 Not Such a Fool as He Looks 6 3 nr B iys 6 4 126 Our Daughters 8 6 265 Pug and the Baby 5 3 114 Passions 8 4 264 Prof. James' Experience Teaching Country School 1 3 219 Rags and Bottles 4 1 239 Scale with Sharps and Flats.. 3 2 221 Solon Shingle 14 2 262 Two Bad Boys 7 3 87 The Biter Bit 3 2 131 The Cigarette 4 2 240 $2,000 Reward 2 TRAGEDIES. 16 The Serf 6 8 FARCES & COMEDIETTAS. 129 Aar-u-ag-oos 2 1 132 Actor and Servant '1 1 316 Aunt Charlotte's .Maid 8 3 289 A Colonel's Mishap 5 o 12 A Capital Match 3 2 303 A Kiss in the Dark 2 3 166 ATexan Mother-in-Lavv 4 2 30 A Day Well Spent 7 5 169 A Regular Fix 2 4 286 A Professiona^Gardener 4 2 80 Alarmingly Suspicious 4 3 32ii All In A Mndile 3 3 78 An Awfi.l Criminal 313 A Matchmaking Father.. 31 A Pet of the Public 21 A Romantic Attachment ^ Thrilling Item 20 A Ticket of Leave 5 4 ; "^'4 A Day in a Do< 175 Betsey Baker. 5 1 3i 8 Better Half 5 86 Black vs. White 4 22 Captain Smith - 3 84 Cheek Will Win 3 287 Cousin Josiah 1 225 Cupids Capers 4 317 Cleveland's Reception Party. 5 249 Double Election 9 49 Der Two Surprises » 1 72 Deuce is in Him 5 10 Did I Dream it 4 220 Dutchyvs. Nigger 3 188 Dutch Prize Fighter 3 42 Domestic Felicity 1 148 Eh? What Did You Say 3 218 Everybody Astonished 4 22 1 Fooling with the Wrong Man 2 233 Freezing a Mother-in-Law... 2 154 Fun in a Post Office 4 184 Family Discipline 274 Family Jars 5 209 Goose with the Golden Eggs.. 5 13 Give Me My Wife .,. 3 307 Hallabahocla, the Medicine Man 4 66 Hans, the Dutch J. P 3 271 Hans Brummel's Cafe 5 116 Hash 4 120 H. M.S. Plum 1 50 How She has Own AVay 1 140 How He Popped the Quest'n. 1 74 How to Tame M-in-Law 4 35 How Stout Your Getting 5 247 Incompatibility of Temper... 1 95 In the Wrong Clothes 5 racob Shlaff'fl Mistake 3 <99 Jimmie Jones 3 11 John Smith 5 Johanes Blatz's Mistake 4 ! umbo Jum 4 82 Killing Time 1 182 Kittie's Wedding Cake 1 127 Lick Skillet Wedding 2 l.auderbach's Little Surprise 3 302 Locked in a Dress-maker's Room 3 106 Lodgings for Two 288 Love in all Corners 5 139 Matrimonial Bliss 1 231 Match for a other-Min-Law.. 2 235 More Blunders than one 4 Mother's Fool 6 Mv Heart's in Highlands 4 208 My Precious Betsey 4 212 Aly Turn Next 4 My Wife's Relations 4 My Day and Now-a-Days 273 My Neighbor's Wife 3 206 Xanka's Leap Year Venture.. 5 S (body's Moke ft Our Hotel 5 Olivet 44 Obedience 1 33 On the Sly :. 3 rE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS ¥ i5_mGS> Flays— 017 401 224 6 NO. 57 217 165 195 359 171 180 267 309 48 138 115 55 327 232 241 270 1 326 389 137 328 252 315 40 38 101 167 291 285 68 295 54 28 292 142 276 263 7 281 312 269 170 213 332 151 56 70 135 117 155 111 157 Paddy Miles' Boy Patent Washing Machine Persecuted Dutchman Poor Pilicody Quiet Family Rough Diamond Ripples Room 41 Santa Claus' Daughter Sch»aps Sewing Circle of Period S. H. A. M. Pinafore Somebody's Nobody Strictly Temperance Stage Struck Yankee Struck by Lightning Slick and Skinner Slasher and Crasher Too Many Cousins Two Gentlemen in a Fix Taking the Census The Landlords Revenue That Awful Carpet Bag That Rascal Pat That Mysterious B'dle The Bewitched Closet The Coming V'an Turn Him Out The Actor's Scheme The Irish Squire of Squash Ridge The Mashers Mashed The Sham Profpgsor TheSnellm' Skew! The Two T. J's Thirty-three Next Birthday.. Tim Flannigan Tit for Tat The Printer and His Devils.. Trials of a Countrv Editor.... The Wonderful Telephone.... Two Aunt Emilys Uncle Esr Him Up Why they Joined the Re- beccas Yankee Duelist Yankee Peddler .* GUIDE BOOKS. Hints on Elocution Hints to Amateurs CANTATA. 215 On to Victory 4 17 130 ETHIOPIAN FARCES. 204 Academy of Stars 6 325 A Coincidence 8 65 An Unwelcome Return 3 15 An Unhappy Pair 1 172 Black Shoemaker 4 98 Black Statue 4 22 Colored Senators 3 214 Chops 3 145 Cuff's Luok 2 190 Crimps Trip 5 27 Fetter Lane to Gravesend 2 153 Haunted House 2 230 Hamlet the Dainty 6 How Sister Paxey got her Child Baptized 2 Handy Andy 2 103 Hypochondriac The. 256 128 2 319 In For It 3 1 47 In the Wrong Box 3 77 Joe's Visit 2 1 88 Mischievous Nigger 4 2 Midnight Colic 2 1 Musical Darkey 2 90 No Cure No Pay 3 1 61 Not as Deaf as He Seems 3 244 Old Clothes 3 234 Old Dad's Cabin 2 1 150 OldPomoey 1 1 246 Othello.: 4 1 109 Other People's Children 3 2 297 Pomp Green's Snakes 2 134 Pomn's Pranks 2 '258 Prof. Bones'Latest Invention 5 177 Quarrelsome Servants 3 96 Rooms to Let 2 1 107 School 5 133 SeeingBosting 3 179 Sham Doctor 3 3 94 16,000 Years Ago 3 243 Sports on a Lark 3 25 Sport with a Sportsman 2 92 Stage Struck Darkey 2 1 238 Strawberry Shortcake 2 10 -Stocks Up, Stocks Down 2 64 That Bov Sam 3 253 The best Cure 4 282 The Intelligence Office 3 122 The Select School 5 118 The Popcorn Man 3 6 The Studio 3 108 Those Awful Boys 5 245 Ticket Takor^ 3 4 Twain's Dodging 3 197 Tricks 5 198 Uncle Jeff 5 216 Vice Versa 3 206 Villkens and Dinah 4 210 Virginia Mummy 6 203 Who Stole the Chickens 1 205 William Tell 4 156 Wig-Maker and His Servants 3 Happy Franks Songter 3i The Little Hem Mate-Up Box. Price 50 Cents.