'MAKE-UP" BOOK —HOW' TO "MAKE-UP." A practical guide for aateurs, with Twenty-three colored Illustrations. Price 50 cents. \1~~~I No. XXV. FRENCH'S STANDARD DRA MA ii X, /ageb~ 1 IN FIVE ACTS. BY JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES; WITH THE STAGE BUSINESS, OAST OF OHARACTERS, COSTUMES, RELATIVE POSITIONS, &c NEW YORK: LONDON: SAMUEL FRENCH & SON, Samuel French PUBLISHERS, FUBLTSHER, $8 East 14th St, Union Square. 89 STRA I).'vI z'V' -' I313 13.OI) - Containing Rouge, I)eal- Powder, Whiting, Mongolian, RIdlu(y Rovne, Violet Powde, Box and Puff; (Chome, nlne, I3urnt Co I Pe cils for the eyelid, Spirit (Gum. lndia, Ik, Cane: Hit Bir-hes, Ii.t.e's F)ooot, Wooi, Ci aped Hair, Cold Cream. Jo ling Paste; Mi-n iatiue Plffs, Seiss anll( Tooking Glass, packed neatly in btrong lia:icy Card:-b)achar Boxes, $4.00; Ele,;int Tin Cases,,5.00. THE ABOVE ARTICLES T3 -E HAD SEPARATELY. FOR PRICES, SEE CATA[LOF~ No Plays Exchanged or Sent on Approval. 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Page Amateur Dramas, Comedies, etc.... 32 How to "Make-up "................. 48' Amateur Operas.................... 42 How We Managed our Private Thea- r Articles Needed by Amateurs........ 45 tricals.............................. 36 Beards, Whiskers, Mustaches, etc... 47 Irish Plays........................... 36 Bits of Burlesque.................. 38 Juvenile Plays....................... 40 Bound sets of Plays.................. 14 Lacy's Costumes..................... 26 Bilwer Lytton's Plays............. 24 Magnesium Tableaux Lights......... 45 Burlesque Dramas.................... 42 Make-up Box......................... 48 Burnt Cork........................... 45 Miscellaneous Books................. 25 0 Charade Plays....................... 38 Miscellaneous Editions ot Plays...... 24 r Colored Fire and Tableaux Lights... 45 Miscellaneous Pla s................. 13 C Comic Dramas for Male Char. oniy. 42 Mrs. Jarley's Wax Works............ 24 - Costume Books.................. 25 New Plays........................... 14 Cumberland's EditonD............... 19 Nigger Jokes and Stump Speeches.. 40 Darkey Dramas...................... 39 Parlor Magic......................... 41 Dramas for Boys.................... 42 Parlor Pantomimes................. 4i D awing Room Plays.............. 25 Pieces of Pleasantry.................. 38 Elocution Reciters and Speakers.... 44 Plays for Male Characters only...... 37 Ethiopian Draas.................. 39 Round Games.................... 41 Evening's Entertainment............ 40 Scenes for Amateurs................ 2 Fairy Plays........................... 40 Scriptural and Historical Dramas... 42 Q French's Edition..................... 2 Sensation Dramas................... 38 Frencls's English Operas............. 42 Serio-Comic Dramas................ 42 French's Italian Operas.............. 37 Shadow Pantomimes................ 43 French's Standard Minor Drama.... 14 Shakespeare's Plays................ 37 French sParlor Comedies........... 41 Sheet Music......................... 43 Frobisher's Popular Recitals........ 45 Tableaux Vivants.................... 37 Guide Books for Amateurs........... 41 Temperance Plays........... 23 Grand Army Dramas.............. 36 Theatrical Face Preparations........ 46 Grease Paints..................... 48 Vocal Music of Shakespeare's Plays. 43 Home Plays for Ladies............... 41 Wigs................................... 47 ALL MAILABLE ARTICLES IN THIS CATALOGUE SENT POST FREE. In ordering and remitting bg Mlail always send Post Office Orders if possible. POSTAGE STAMIPS TAKEN IN PAYMENT. NEW YORK: LONDON: SAMUEL FRENCH & SON, S A U EL F R ENCH, 1 PUBLISHERS, PUBLISHER, L38 E. 14th St., Union Square. 89, STR A ND. Payment MUST accompany each Order. A Catalogue with above Contents Sent Free, No. XXV. FRENCH'S STANDARD DRAMA. VIRGIN IUS ~ diragecb IN FIVE ACTS BY JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES WITH THE STAGE BUSINESS, CAST OF CHARACTERS, COSTUMES, RELATIVE POSITIONS, &c. U PElFORMED BY MR. FORREST, MR. MACREADY, AND OTHER EMINENT TRAGEDIAN8 XEW YORK: LONDON. Samuel French & Son, Samuel French, PUBLISUIR S,! PUBLISIITR, No. 1' Nasaau Street. Q8 ST.A.ND.. CAST OF CHARACTERS. Covent Garden, 1824. Park, 1S-3 Ippius Claudius................... Mr. Abbott. Mr. Ryder Sputri. sOppius............... " White.' Hunt. Vibulanus......................... " Jefferie.. " S. Pearson Honorius............................ " Norris. ~ Valerius............................' Veay. aius laudiu........................ " Connor. " Lovell. Marcus............................... " Claremont. " Gallot. Dentatus........................ " Terry. Barry. Virginius................ " Macready. " Macready. Numitorius........... " Egerton. " Gann. 1cilius............................... C. Kemble. Wheley Lucius................................ " Comer. Crocker. Publius...) " Mears. " King. Decius.... Soldier................. "Treby. " Gourlay Sextus... ) " Crumpton. " Wilmot. Titus..... " Faucit. " Brydges. Servius.... Citizen.. "......' Atkins. " Povey. Oneius..... " King. " Freeland. Virginia............................. Miss Foote. Mrs. Hunt. Servia................................ Mrs. Faucit. Miss Cushman. Female Slave................... Mrs. Chipp. Mrs. Burrows COSTUMES. APPIUS-Toga and purple stripe, fleshings, and red sandals. VSPURUS, General's armour, toga, and stripe flesh legs, and saidali CARIcUS, }Plaintogas, andsandals. DENTATUS, Plain togas and armour, and black sandals. Seconddreso: Romas VIRGINIUS, 5 shirt of mail and short sword. NUMITORIUS,) ICILIUS, Plain togas; and in last act, mourning, and russea tandals. LUCIUS, PUBLIUS, ) DECIUS, Lamberkins, armour, and white kilt, flesh legs, and sandals. SEXTUS, 5 TITUS, Ciiizens, as in Coriolanus, brown stuff dresses, flesh legs, andd rsme SERVIUS, 5 sandals. CNEIUS.-Plain toga. HONORIUS, Toga, with red bands and sandals. VIRGINIA.-Plain white-white robe, trimmed with white fringe; plain white ribbon round her head, and hanging down behind. BERVIA.-White dress, red robe, trimmed with yellow, plain white ribbon rovad her head, and long ends hanging down behind. FEMALE SLAVE.-Plain dark coloured robe. EXITS AND ENTRANCES. R. means Right; L. Left; R. D. Right Door; L. D. Left Door 8. B. Second Entrance; U. E. Upper Entrance; M. D. Middle Door. RELATIVE POSITIONS. B., means Right: L., Left; C, Centre; R. C,, Right of Centrej. C., Left of Centre. EDIT RIAL INTRODUCTION. IT is now some twenty years since the " Virginius" of Krowles was pronounced by Hazlitt the best acting tragedy of th- modern stage. During that interval, nothing has been produced to render this critical sentence less just; and, with the exception of Venice Preserved," we can call to mind no acting tragedy in the English language, out of Shakspeare, that is worthy to be placed by its side. The "Cenci" of Shelley is perhaps superior as a work of genius, as well as in breadth and intensity of tragic power; but as the nature of the story excludes that production from representation before modern audiences, it cannot be called an exception to the verdict we have given in favour of Virginius. That there are defects of a very obvious character in this beautifmi tragedy, no one can deny. We can easily believe that it was written in three months. The language is sometimes in excusably slip-shod and slovenly; the unity of the story terminates with the death of Virginia; and the whole last act is an anti-climax. The first of these objections, it was in the power of the author to remove with a little care; but the last is inextricably blended with the story. Virginia must die, but she must also be avenged; and an additional act becomes inevitable. There are many fine bursts of poetry in this tragedy, which are introduced with great dramatic propriety and skill. Read Virgini's.s. reply to the exclamation of Lucius, that "Justice will be defeated"; also that exquisite thought, where, after calling on his slaughtered daughter, he waits for a response, and says: "I hear a voice so fine, there's nothing lites'Twixt it and silence." Many other instances could be quoted, to shcw that the poet's, as well as the dramatist's genius, has been tasked in the con. strustion of this tragedy. "Virnius" was produced ia. Loqndon in the sprin g of 18O0, at the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden. It met with the most dim. fi El:ED)I:TOUA I IN'TROD)UCTION. tinguishld success. DI)rin its run, a rival play on the same subject, and with the same name, was represented at Drury Lane; but though Edmund Kean did what he could to buoy it up, it fell flat on the first night, and was withdrawn a night or two after. Of the personation by Macready of the principal part in Knowles's tragedy, a critic of the day, in a communication to Blackwood's Magazine, remarks: *" It was a noble and complete piece of acting-without exception the most so of any this gentleman has attempted. It was full of high passion-deep and delicate pathos-intense energy, both of conception and execution; and the whole rounded off by a finished taste and discrimination. In the home scenes with Virginia and ICelius, in the first act, he was the unaffected and happy father in the bosom of his family. Nothing could be conceived with greater force than the scene at the end of the second act, where he first learns the danger of his child. But his.highest and most successful effort, was reserved for the trial scene in the fourth act. Here nothing could possibly exceed the variety, the vivid ness, and the masterly truth of the picture throughout; and ac. cordingly nothing could be more affecting and impressive. Mr. Charles Kemble played the love scenes with Virginia delight. fully; and the more energetic parts, where he beards Appius to his face, aad appeals to the people against his decision, and par ticularly where he steps in to prevent Claudius from touching haa betrothed bride, were given with more power than anything we have seen from this accomplished actor. Mr. Terry's Dentatus was also excellent; and lastly, we must not forget Miss Foota in Virginia. She had evidently caught the spirit of the whole performance, and was, for once, unaffected. She seemed content to be Virginia, instead of Miss Foote." Few plays have been represented on the American boards so repeatedly as this; and Mr. Forrest's personation of the Roman father has been deservedly admired, as a just and lofty embodiment of the author's conception. To those wko deny that there has been a marked change of late years in the moral tone of productions intended for the stage, we commend Virginius, as an evidence that the most popular tragedy of the day is one that conveys none but the most impressive lessons of domestic pu pity. manly worth, and republican virtue. 51 DEDICATION. TO W I LLIAM A C READY, E SQ. M r DEAR. SIR, What can I do less than dedicate this Tragedy to you I This is a question which you cannot answer; but I can-1 camn not do less; and if I could do more, I ought, and would. I was a perfect stranger to you: You read my play, and at once committed yourself respecting its merits. This, perhaps, is not saying much for your head-but it says a great deal for your heart; and that is the consideration which, above all others, makes me feel happy, and proud, in subscribing myself Your grateful Friend and Servant, JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES. London, May 20, 1820. A UTHOR'S PREFACE. THIS Play was written in great haste, and, no doubt, abounds in defects; but it is a question whether it would have been less imperfect, had I taken a year to compose it. It was resolved and executed in about three months, in the midst of very numerous and arduous avocations. To a distinguished individual who suggested to me the idea of writing it, I shall ever feel grateful. I owe the public an apology for the last act; and this is my apology-History gives two accounts of the manner of Appius's death: one, that he committed suicide; the other, that he was destroyed privately by the Tribunes. Had I selected for my catastrophe the latter incident, the character of the tyrant had stood too prominent; by adopting the former, I should have violated the respect due to a Christian audience. After having excited such an interest for Virginius, it would have been indecent to represent him in the attitude of taking the law into his own hands. I therefore adopted the idea of his destroying Appius in a fit of temporary insanity, which gives the catastrophe the air of a visitation of Providence. I am most sensible of the great degree in which I am indebted to the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Theatre Royal, Covent Garden; and I beg them to believe that I feel more than I can very readily express. To forget what I owe to the Theatre where my Play was first performed, would be ungrateful; and, under any circumstances, to omit the acknowledgment of it would be unprincipled and mean. I take, therefore, this oppor tunity of thanking, also, the Company of the Glasgow Theatrt PROLOGUE, Written ly J. H. Reynolds, Esq., and spoken ty Miss Booiti [Speaking hehind.] Nay, Mr. Fawcett, give me leave, I pray, The audience wait, and I must have my way. [Enters What! curb a woman's tongue!-As I'mn alive, The wretch would mar our old prerogative! Ladies, by very dint of pertinacity, Have I preserved the glory of loquacity! Oh! could you gaze, as I am gazing now, And see each man behind, with gathered brow, And clenched hand, (though naught my spirit damps,) Beckoning, with threats, my presence from the lamps Each, as I broke my way, declared how well His art could woo you-to be peaceable! One is well robed-a second greatly shines In the nice balance of cast-iron lines; A third can sing-a fourth can touch your tearsA fifth —" I'11 see no more!"-a fifth appears, Who hath been once in Italy, and seen Rome; In short, there's quite a hubbub in the Green-Room. But I-a very woman -zcareless-light, Fleet idly to your presence this fair night; And, craving your sweet pardon, fain would say A kind word for the poet, and his play. To-night, no idle nondescript lays waste The fairy, and yet placid, bower of taste i No story, piled with dark and cumbrous fate, And words that stagger under their own weight; But one of silent grandeur-simply said, As thcugh it were awakened from the dead! It is a tale —made beautiful by yearsOf pure, old, Roman sorrow-old in tears! And those you shed o'er it in childhood, may Still fall-and fall-for sweet Virginia! Nor doth a crowned poet of the age, Call the sweet spirits from the historic page,No old familiar dramatist hath spun This tragic, antique web, to-night-but one, An unknown author, in a sister land, Waits, in yrung fear, the fiat of your hand I ) EPILOGUE, [W ien by Barry Cornwall, Esq. and spoken by Miss 3riutos LEAVING the common path, which many tread, We will not wake with jokes our poet's dead; Nor shame the young creations of his pen By bidding all, who've perished, be again The pale Virginia, in her bloody shroud, Lies like a shrined saint.-Oh! then, aloud Shall we break scurril jests, and bid depart Those thoughts of her, which fill and teach the heart? No moral now we offer, squared in form, But Pity, like the sun-light, bright and warm, Comes mixed with showers; and, fading, leaves behind A beauty and a blossom on the mind. WVe do not strain to show that " thus it grows," And "hence we learn" what every body knows: 3ut, casting idle dogmas (words) aside, Me paint a villain in his purple pride; And, tearing down a power that grew too bold, Show-merely what was done in days of old. Leaving this image on the soul, we go Unto our gentler story, touched with woe; (With woe that wantons not, nor wears away The heart,) and love Ao perfect for decay. But whatsoe'er we do, we will not shame Your better feeling, with an idle game Of grin and mimicry (a loathsome task); Or strip the great Muse of her mighty mask, And hoot her from her throne of tears and sighs, Until, from folly and base jest, she dies. No: let her life be long, her reign supremeIf but a dream, it is a glorious dream. Dwell, then, upon our tale; and bear along With you, deep thoughts-of love-of bitter wrngOf freedom-of sad pity-and lust of power. The tale is fitted for an after hour. ~V 1. G I N I U S ACT I. SCENE I.-A Street in Rome. tnter SERVxus, CNEIUS, and Citizens, L. —-Citizes stand L. Ser. CARBO denied a hearing! Cne. (c.) Ay, and Marcellus cast into prison, because ne sued a friend of one of the Decemvirs for a sum of money he had lent him. Ser. (R. c.) And Appius resisted not? Appius! that, in the first Decemvirate, was a god to the people. Cne. Resisted not! Nay, was most loud in favour of the decree; but hither comes Virginius, who interested himself so much in Carbo's affair. He looks a little heaced. Is not that Titus he is speaking to? Stand aside, Master, and listen. Retire back on L. Enter VIRGINIUS and TITUS, R. Vir. (c.) Why did you make him Decemvir, and sia Decemvir, too? Tit. (R.) We had tried him, and found him honest. Vir. (L. c.) And could you not have remained connent I Why try him again to find him dishonest? Knew yo not he was a Patrician, and of the Claudian family? Tit. He laid down the Consulate - Vir. Ha! ha! ha! to be elected into the Decemvirate, and he was so; and he laid down his office of Decemvir, to be re-elected into the Decemvirate, and he is so: Ay, by Jupiter! and to the exclusion of his late colleagues ] Did nct Titus Ge.utius lay down the Consulate Tit. He did. Vir Was he ntt next to \ppiuls in the DecemviratL Tit, He was, 10 VIRGINIUS. rAcT i Vir. Did you n3t find him honest I Tit. We did find him honest. Vir. As honest as Appius Claudius? Tit. Quite as honest. Vir. Quite as honest! And why not re-elect him Decemvir l Most sapient people! You re-elect Appius into the Decemvirate for his honesty, and you thrust Titus out of the Decemvirate-I suppose for his honesty also! Why, Appius was sick of the Decemvirate! [Goes, L. Ser. (c.) I never heard him say so. Vir. (L.) But he did say so-say so in my hearing; in the presence of the senators, Valerius and Caius Claudius, and I don't know how many others.'Twas known to the whole body of the Senate-not that he was sick, but that he said so. Yes! yes! he and his colleagues, he said, had done the work of the Republic for a whole year, and it was now but just to grant them a little repose, and appoint others to succeed them. Tit. Well, well, we can only say he changed his mind. Vir. No, no, we needn't say that, neither; as he had labored in the Deceinvirate, perhaps he thought he might as well repose in the Decemvirate. Tit. I know not what he thought. He is Decemvir, and we made him so, and cannot help ourselves. Fare you well, Virginius. Come, let's to the Forum. [Exeunt all but Virginius. Vir. [Still on L., looking after them and pointing.] You cannot help yourselves! Indeed, you cannot; You helped to put your masters on your backs. They like their seat, and make you show your paces; They ride you-sweat you-curb you-lash you —and You cannot throw them off with all your mettle; But here comes one, whose share in giving you To such unsparing riders, touches me More nearly, for that I've an interest In proving him a man of fair and most Erect integrity. (c.) Good day, Icilius. Enter ICILIUS, R. S. E. lci. (R. c.) Worthy Virginius!'tis an evil day For Rome, that: gives her more convincing proof, The thing she took for hope, is but a base c1r UI.] VIRGINIUS. Il And wretched counterfeit! Our new Decemvirs Are anything but friends to justice and Their country. Vir. You, Icilius, had a hand In their election. You applied to me To aid you with my vote in the Comitia; I told you then, and tell you now again, I am not pleased when a Patrician bends His head to a Plebeian's girdle! Mark me! I'd rather he should stand aloof, and wear His shoulder high-especially the nephew Of Caius Claudius. Ici. I would have pledged my lifeVir.'Twas a high gage, and men have staked a bigher On grounds as poor as your's-their honour, boy! Icilius, I have heard it all-your plansThe understanding'twixt the heads of the peopleOf whom, Iciiius, you are reckoned one, and Worthily-and Appius Claudius-all —'Twas every jot disclosed to me. Ici. By whom? Vir. Siccius Dentatus. Ici. He disclosed it to you! Siccius Dentatus is a crabbed man. Vir. Siccius Dentatus is an honest man! There's not a worthier man in Rome! How now Has he deceived me? Do you call him liar? My friend! my comrade! honest Siccius, That has fought in six-score battles 1.ci. Good Virginius, Siccius Dentatus is my frienc' —the fiiend Of every honest man in Rome —a brave manA most brave man. Except yourself, Virginius, I do not know a man I prize above Siccius Dentatus-yet he's a crabbed man. Vir. Yes, yes; he is a crabbed man. Ici. A man Who loves too much to wear a jealous eye. Vir. No, not a whit!-where there is double dealing, You are the best judge of your own concerns Yet, if it please you to communicate With me upon this subject, come and see me II VIRGINIUS. -[Ac,. I told you, boy, I favoured not this stealing And winding into place. What he deserves, An honest man dares challenge'gainst the worldBut come and see me. [Going, a.] Appius Claudius chouen Decemvir, and his former colleagues,'that Were quite as honest as himself, not chosenNo, not so much as named by him-who named Himself, and his new associates! (R.) Well,'tis true, Dog fights with dog, but honesty is not A cur, doth bait his fellow-and e'en dogs, By habit of companionship, abide In terms of faith and cordialityBut come and see me. [A skout, L. Ici. (c.) Appius comes! The people still throng after him with shouts, Unwilling to believe their Jupiter Has marked them for his thunder. Will you stay And see the homage that they render him? Vir. Not I! Stay you; and, as you made him, hail him, And shout, and wave your hand, and cry, long live Our first and last Decemvir, Appius Claudius! For he is first, and last, and every one! Rome owes you much, Icilius-Fare you wellI shall bglad to see you at my house. [Exeunt, Virginius, it., Icilius, L. Enter APPIUS CLAUDIUS, SICCIUs DENTATUS, Lucius, Ti. TUS, SERVIUS, MARCUs, and Citizens, shouting, R. s. E. Tit. Long live our first Decemvir! Long live Appius Claudius! Most noble Appius! Appius and the Decemvirato for. ever! [ Citizens shaot App. (c.) My countrymen and fellow-citizens, We will deserve your favour. Tit. (L.) You have deserved it, And will deserve it. App. For that end we named Ourself Decemvir. Tit. You could not have named a letter man. Den. (n.) For his own purpose. Aside. App. Be assured, we hold Our power but for youl good Your gift it was; aXtz 1, VIRGMIUSC. 13 And gifts make surest debtors. Fare you wellAnd, for your salutations, pardon me If I repay you only with an echoLong live the worthy citizens of Rome! [Exit Appius, 5C., the people shouting, L. Den. [Going, c.) That was a very pretty echo! (c.)-a most soft echo. I never thought your voices were half so sweet! a most melodious echo! I'd have you ever after make your music before the Patricians' Palaces; they give most exquisite responses!-especially that of Appius Claudius! a most delicate echo! Tit. What means Dentatus? Ser. He's ever carping-nothing pleases him. Den. (R.) Oh! yes-you please me-please me mightily, I assure you.-You are noble legislators, take most especial care of your own interest, bestow your votes most wisely, too-on him who has the wit to get you into the humour; and withal, have most musical voices-most musical-if one may judge by their echo. Tit. (R.) Why, what quarrel have yon with our choice? Could we have chosen better?-I say there are ten honest Decemvirs we have chosen. Den. I pray you, name them me. Tit. There's Appius Claudius, first Decemvih. Den. Ay, call him the head; you are right. Appius Claudius, the head. Go on! Tit. And Quintus Fabius Vibulanus. Den. The body, that eats and drinks while the head thinks. Call him Appius's stomach. Fill him, and keep him from cold and indigestion, and he'll never give Appius the head-ache! Well?-There's excellent comfort in having a good stomach — Well? Tit. There's Cornelius, Marcus Servilius, Minucius, and Titus Antonius. Den. (c.) Arms, legs, and thighs! Tit. And Marcus Rabuleius. Den. (R. c.) He'll do for a hand, and, as he's a Senator, we'll call him the right-hand. We couldn't do less, you know, for a Senator! Well? Luc. At least, you'll say we did well in electing Quintius Petilius, Caius Duellius, and Spurius Oppius, men of our order! sound men!'"known sticklers for the people" —at oast you'll say we d'U well in tha,. 14 VIRGLN-'JS. tAT I Den. And who dares say otherwise I "Well!" one might as well say " ill" as " well." Well is the very skirt of commendation; next neighbour to that mire and gutter, "ill." " Well," indeed! you acted like yourselves! Nay, c'en yourselves could not have acted better! Why, had you not elected them-Appius would have gone without his left hand, and each of his two fee* Ser. (c.) Out! you are dishonest! Den. Ha! Ser. What would content you? Den. A post in a hot battle! Out, you cur! Do you talk to me! Citizen. [From behind.j Down with him, he does ncthing but insult the people. [The Crowd approach Dentatus, threateningly. Enter. ICILIUS, suddenly, L. s. E. Ici. Stand back! Who is't that says, down with Siccius Dentatus? Down with him!'Tis what the enemy could never do; and shall we do it for them? Who uttered that dishonest word? Who uttered it, I say 1 Let him answer a fitter, though less worthy mate, Lucius Icilius! Citizens. Stand back, and hear Icilius! IGi. (c.) What! haven't I voted for the Decemvirs, and do Isnarl at his jests 1 Has he not a right to jest? the good, honest Siccius Dentatus, that alone, at the head of the veterans, vanquished the CEqui for you. Has he not a right to jest For shame! get to your houses! The worthy Dentatus! Cheer for him, if you are Romans! Cheer for him, before you go! Cheer for him, I say! [Exeunt Citizens, shouting, R. s. E. Den. (c.) And now, what thanks do you expect from me, Icilius Ici. (R. c.) None. Den. By Jupiter, young man, had you thus stepped before me in the heat of battle, I would have cloven you down -but l'm obliged to you, Icilius-and hark you! There's a piece of furniture in the house of a friend of mine, that's called Virginius, I think you've setyour heart upon-dainty enough-yet not amiss for a young man to covet. Ne'er lose your hopes! He may be brought into the mind to part with it.-As to these curs, I question which I value more, their fawnings, ot their snarlings,-I thank you, boy I imw.I.] VIRGINIDS it Do you walk this way 1-I am glad of it! Comeo-'Tis a noble Decemvirate you have chosen for us! Come! [Exeunt, R. SCENE II.- Virginius's House. Enter VIRmINIUS and SERVIA, with some of Virginia's work in her hand. Vir. (c.) And is this all you have observed? I think There's nothing strange in that. An L and an I, Twined with a V. Three very innocent letters To have bred such mischief in thy brain, good Servia! Come, read this riddle to me. Serv. (R. c.) You may laugh, Virginius, but I will read the riddle right. The L doth stand for Lucius; and the I, Icilius; which, I take it, will compose Lucius Icilius. Vir. So it will, good Servia. Serv. Then, for the V; why, that is plain Virginia. Vir. And now, what conjuration find you here? Serv. What should I find but love? The maid's in love And it is with Icilius. Look, the wreath Is tnade of roses, that entwines the letters. Vir. And this is all? Serv. And is it not enough? You'll find this figuring where'er you look: There's not a piece of dainty work she doesEmbroidery or painting not a task She finishes, but on the skirt or border, In needle-work or pencil, this, her secret, The silly wench betrays. Vir. Go, send her to meStay! Have you spoke to her of it Serv. (R.) I! Not I, indeed; I left that task to youtThough once I asked her what the letters meant, She laughed, and drew a scratch across them: but Had scarce done so, ere her fair visage fell, For grief that she had spoiled the cyphers —" and' A. sigh came out, and then almost a tear; "And she did look as piteous on the harm " That she had lone, as she had done it to 16 VIRGINItS. ACo "A thing had sense to feel it." Never after She let me note her at the work again. She had good reason! Vir. (L.) Send her to me, Servia. [Exit Servza, n. There's something here that looks as it would bring me Anticipation of my wish. I think Icilius loves my daughter-(c.) nay, I know it; And such a man I'd challenge for her husband;And only waited till her forward spring Put on a little more the genial likeness Of colouring into summer, (n. c.) ere I sought To nurse a flower, which, blossoming too early, Too early often dies; " but if it springs "Spontaneous and unlooked for, woos our hand "To tend and cherish it, the growth is healthful: "And'twere untimely, as unkind, to check it." I'll ascertain it shortly-soft, she comes. [Sits, c Enter VIRGINIA, M. D. Virg. [Standing on Ins L.) Well, father, what's your will? Vir. I wished to see you, To ask you of your tasKs-how they go onAnd what your maeters say of you-what last You did. I hope you never play The truant 1 Virg. The truant! No, indeed, Virginius. Vir. I am sure you do not-kiss me! Virg. Oh! my father, I am so happy when you're kind to me! Vir. You are so happy when I'm kind to you! Am I not always kind? I never spoke An angry word to you in all my life, Virginia! You are happy when I'm kind! That's strange; and makes me think you have some reason To feat I may be otherwise than kind — ls't so, my girl? Virg. Indeed, I did not know What I was saying to you! Vir. Why, that's worse And woriR What! when yu said your fathers kind aCn 1i.J VIRGINIUS 47 Made you so happy, am I to believe You were not thinking of him I Virg. I - [Greatly cofusesed Vir. Go, fetch me The latest task you did. [Exit Virginia, M. D It is enough: Her artless speech, like chrystal, shows the thing'Twould hide, but only covers.'Tis enough! She loves, and fears her father may condemn. Re-enter VIRGINIA with a painting. Virg. Here, Sir. Vir. What's this? Virg.'Tis Homer's history Of great Achilles parting from Briseis. Fir. You have done it well. The colouring is good, The figures well designed.'Tis very well!Whose face is this you've given to Achilles' Virg. Whose face Vir. I've seen this face! Tut! Tut! I know it As well as I do my own, yet can't bethink me Whose face it is! Virg. You mean Achilles' face? Vir. Did I not say so?'Tis the very face Of-No! No! Not of him. There's too much youth And comeliness; and too much fire, to suit The face of Siccius Dentatus. Virg. Oh! You surely never took it for his face! Vir. Why, no; for now I look again, I'd swear You lost the copy ere you drew the head, And, to requite Achilles for the want Of his own face, contrived to borrow or e From Lucius Icilius. My Dentatus, Enter DENTATUS, L. I am glad to see you! [Rises.- -Viginia retires, n. Den. (i,. c.)'Tis not for my news, then. Vir. Your news! What news? Den. More violence and wrong from these new mastera of ours, our noble Decemvirs-these demi-gods of the good people of Rome! No man's property is safe front 18 VIRGIN US. LAV Il them. Nay, it appears we hold our wives and daughters but by the tenure of their will. Their liking is the law. The Senators themselves, scared at their audacious rule, withdraw themselves to their villas, and leave us to our fate. There are rumours, also, of new incursions by the Sabines. Vir. Rome never saw such days. Den. And she'll see worse, unless I fail in my reckoning. Is that Virginia? [Goes R. to her.] I saw her not before. How does the fair Virginia? Why, she is quite a woman. I was just now wishing for a daughter. Vir. A plague, you mean. Den. (R.) I am sure you should not say so. Virg. (n.) Indeed he should not; and he does not say so, Dentatus-not that I am not a plague, But that he does not think me one, for all I do to weary him. I am sure, Dentatus, If to be thought to do well is to do well, There's nothing I do ill: But it is far From that! for few things do I as I oughtYet everything is well done with my father, Dentatus. Vir. [Goes to them.] That's well done, is it not, my friend? [Aside. But if you had a daughter, what would you do with her? Den. I'd give her to Icilius. I should have been just now torn to pieces, but for his good offices. The gentle citizens, that are driven about by the Decemvirs' Lictors, like a herd of tame oxen, and, with most beast-like docility, only low applauses to them in return, would have done me the kindness to knock my brains out; but the noble Icilius bearded them singly, and rallied them into temper. Had I a daughter worthy of such a husband, he should have such a wife, and a Patrician's dower along with her. Vir. I wish to speak with you, Dentatus. [They retire to M. D.J Icilius is a young man wh( n I honor, but so far only as his conduct gives me warrant. He has had, as thou knowest, a principal hand in helping us to our Decemvirs, It may be that he is what I would gladly think him: but I must see him clearly,'clearly, Dentatus. " If he has acted "with the remotest understanding, touching the views of Om 11.] VIRGINIITS. 19 "these new tyrants th it we are cursed withal, I disclaim "him as my friend! I cast him off forever I" [Exeunt Virginius and Dentatus, M. D. Virg. (D,) How is it with my heart 1 I feel as one That has lost everything, and just before Had nothing left to wish for! He will cast [cilius off! —I never told it yet; But take of me, thou gentle air, the secretAnd ever after breathe more balmy sweetI love Icilius! " Yes, although to thee "I fear to tell it, that hast neither eye "To scan my looks, nor voice to echo me,; Nor e'en an o'er-apt ear to catch my words; "Yet, sweet invisible confidant, my secret "Once being thine-I tell thee, and I tell thee "Again-and yet again," I love Icilius He'll cast Icilius off!-not if Icilius Approve his honour. That he'll ever do; He speaks and looks; and moves a thing of honour Or honour never yet spoke-looked, or moved, Or was a thing of earth. (c.) Oh, come, Icilius: Do but appear, and thou art vindicated. Enter IcILIUS, L. Ici. Virginia! sweet Virginia! sure I heard My name pronounced. [Both, c.) Was it by thee, Virgi nia Thou dost not answer? Then it was by theeOh! wouldst thou tell me why thou nam'dst Icilius! Virg. My father is incensed with thee. Dentatus Has told him of the new Decemvirate, How they abuse their office. You, he knows, Have favoured their election, and he fears May have some understanding of their plans. Ici. He wrongs me, then! Virg. I thank the gods! Ici. For me! Virginia? Do you thank the gods for me? Your eye is moist-yet that may be for pity; Your land doth tremble-that may be for fear; Your cheek is covered o'er with blushes! What, Oh, what can that be for? VIRGINIUS.,AsY 1 Ptirg. Icilius, leave m,!Ici. Ieave thee, Virginia? Oh! a word-a Mord Trembles upon my tongue, which, if it match The thought that moves thee now, and thou wilt let me Pronounce that word, to speak that thought for thee, I'll breathe-though I expire in the extacy, Of uttering it. Virg. Icilius, will you leave me? Ici. Love! Love! Virginia! Love! If I have spoke Thy thought aright, ne'er be it said again, The heart requires more service than the tongue Can, at its best, perform. My tongue hath served Two hearts-but, lest it should o'erboast itself, Two hearth with but one thought. Virginia! Virginia, speak- [She covers her face witJL her hand, Oh, I have loved thee long: So much the more extatic my delight, To find thee mine at length! Virg. My secret's yours. Keep it, and honour it, Icilius. Enter VIRGINIUS and DENTATUS behind, WI. B. Vir. Icilius here! Virg. I ask thee now to leave me. Ici Leave thee! who leaves a treasure he has coveted rSo long, and found so newly, ere he scans it Again, and o'er again; and asks and answeis, Repeats and answers, answers and repeats, The half mistrustful, half-assured questionAnd is it mine indeed? Virg. Indeed! indeed! Now leave me. Ici. I must see thy father first, And lay my soul before him. TVirg. Not to-night. Ici. Now worse than ever, dear Virginia, Can I endure his doubts; I'll lay my soul Naked before him-win his friendship quite, Or lose myself forever! [Going, is met by Virginiw. Vir. (R. c.) Stop, Icilius! Thou seest that hand? It is a Roman's, boy;'Tis sworn to liberty-it is the friend Of honour-Dost thou think so t .sce I.l tVIRGINIUS. 21 IcF. (R. c.) 1)o I think Virginius owns that hand 7 Vir. Then you'll believe It has an oath deadly to tyranny, And is the foe of falsehood! By the gods, Knew it the lurking place of treason, though It were a brother's heart,'twould drag the caitiff Forth. Dar'st thou take that hand 1 Ici. I dare, Virginius. Vir. Then take it? Is it weak in thy embrace? Returns it not thy gripe I Thou wilt not hold Faster by it, than it will hold by thee! I overheard thee say, thou wast resolved To win my friendship quite. Thou can'st not win What thou hast won already!-You will stay And sup with us to-night? _Den. To be sure he will! Vir. And hark you, sir: At your convenient time, appoint a day Your friends and kinsmen may confer with meThere is a bargain I would strike with you. Come, to the supper-room. [Pausing, R.-Virginia stands L., Icilius, c.] Do you wait for me To lead Virginia in, or will you do it.? [Icilius goes eagerly to Virginia, and exits with her, R Come on, I say; come on. Your hand, Dentatus. LExeuzt, K. END OF ACT I. ACT II. SCENE L- A.Street. Enter PUBLIUS, a., and SEXTT s, L. Pub This way! We muster at the F'laminian gate. Sex. Shall we not wait for Decius? Pub. No; were he ten times Decius. They'll have aH ready begun their march. Come on! ,22~ VIRGINIJd. rACi a1 Enter NUMITORIUS, L.. Num. Do you belong to the fourth legion Pub. We do. Num. They are upon their march, then. Pub, I told you so. Come on! come on! [Exeunt Soldiers. Enter Lucius, R. Luc. Numitorius, what soldiers were those that just now parted from you? Num. Soldiers hastening to overtake the army, that's now upon its march. Luc.'Tis all confirmed, then; the Sabines are in force upon our borders. Num. I pray you, tell me something new! Know you not the senate has met, and the Decemvirs have come oft triumphant, in spite of all opposition? Luc. Should they have been opposed in such a strait as this? J'"um. Ay, should they! They dared not have armed a siigle citizen without the order of the Senate; which, had they not obtained, the country would have been left naked to the foe, and then they had been forced to make room for more popular magistrates. Luc. Why, were' they not opposed, then? Num. Did not I tell you they were opposed? Caius Claudius, Appius's own uncle, and Honorius, that noble senator, opposed them: and it was like to go against them, but for the brawling insolence of Spurius Oppius, and the effrontery of the head Decemvir, backed by the young Patricians. Luc. So they are empowered to take up arms? Num. To be sure they are: and they have done so.One body has already marched, and by this time, no doubt, has come to blows with the enemy. The levy is still proceeding. All the Decemvirs, but Appius, take the field. He remains in Rome to keep good order, that is the viola-:er of all order. Why, where have you been, Lucius, to have felt no movement of so great and wide a stir? Your brother meets Virginius at his house to-day.-Come wita me thither, for you, I know, are bid. Lucius, there's no huzzaing for your Decemvirs now — Come on, we have outstaitl the hour. [ExTunt, L nDm I1.: VIRGIISTL.' a SCENE 11. - Virginius's Iouse. Enter "fRGTNIUS, ICILIUS, NUMITORIUS, Lucius, and others, L. 1ir. (c.) Welcome, Icilius! Welcome, fiiends! Icilius I did design to speak with you of feasting And merrimenat, bit war is now the word; One that unlovingly keeps tim3 with mirth, Unless war's own-whene'er the battle's won, And, safe carousing, comrades drink to victory! Ici. Virginius! have you changed your mind? Vir. My mind. What mind I How now! Are you that boy Icilius, You set your heart so earnestly upon A dish of poor confections, that to balk you M.akes you look blank? I did design to feast you Together with your friends-The times are changedThe march, the tent, the fight becomes us now! ci. (L. c.) Virginius! TVir. Wel lci. Virginius! Vir. How the boy. Reierates my name! lri. There's not a hope I have, but is the client of Virginius. Vir. (c.) Well. well I only meant to put it off; We'll have the revel yet! the board shall smoke I The cup shall sparkle. and the jest shall soar And mock us from the roof! Will that content you i Not till the war be done, though-Yet, ere then, Some tongue, that now needs only wag, to make Tht table ring, may have a tale to tell So pctrifying, that it cannot utter it! I'll make all sure, that you may be my guest At any rate-although you should be forced To play the host for me, and feast yourself: Look here, [Shows a parchment o,TitA3 How think you*? Will it meet the charge? Will it not do? WVe want? witness, though! I'1l bring one; whenr, if you apprnvoe!'l i:. The bond. I'll wa;t ppon you inxisantlv. r t 4 VIRGINImUS. [ACr U Luc (L.) How feel you now, It iiius Ici. (c.) Like a man Whom the next moment makes, or quite unmakes. With the intensity of exquisite Suspense, my breathing thickens, and my heart Beats heavily, and with remittant throb, As like to lose its action.-See! my hope Is blessed! I live! I live! [Stands, I. Enter VIRGINIUS, R., conducting VIRGINIA, with NJMITO RIUS. Vir. (R.) [Holding his daughter's hand.] You are mv witnesses, That this young creature I present to you, I do pronounce-my profitably cherished, And most deservedly beloved child; My daughter, truly filial-both in word And act-yet even more in act than word; And-for the man who seeks to win her loveA virgin, from whose lips a soul as pure Exhales, as e'er responded to the blessing Breathed in a parent's kiss. [IKisses her.] Icilius! [Icilius rushes towards Virginius, and kneelt, Lo Since You are upon your knees, young man, look up; And lift your hands to heaven-You will be all Her father has been-added unto all A lover would be! lei. All that man should be To woman, I will be to her Vir. The oath IP registered! [Icil. rises.] Didst thou but know, [Take a hand of each, I young man, How fondly I have watched her, since the day Her mother died, and left me to a charge Of double duty bound-how she hath been My pondered thought by day, my dream by night, My prayer, my vow, "my offering, my praise," My sweet companion, pupil, tutor, child!Thou would'st not wonder, that my drowning eye, And choking utterance, upbraid my tongue, "hat tells thee, she is thine! Joins their hands.] Icilius, ScEmz II.] VIRGINS. 25 I do betroth her to thee; let but the war Po done-you shall espouse her. Friends, a word! [ Virginius and the rest exeunt, M. D. Ici. [holding her hand.] Virginia! my Virginia! I am al' Dissolved-o'erpowered with the munificence Of this auspicious hour-And thou, nor mov'st, Nor look'st-nor speak'st-to bless me with a sign Of sweet according joy! I love thee, but To make thee happy! If to make thee so Be bliss denied to me-lo, I release The gifted hand-that I would faster hold, Than wretches, bound for death, would cling to lifeIf thou would'st take it back-then take it back. Virg. I take it back-to give it thee again! Ici. Oh, help me to a word will speak my bliss, Or I am beggared-No! there is not one! There cannot be: for never man had bliss Like mine to name. Virg. " Thou dost but beggar me, "Icilius, when thou mak'st thyself a bankrupt; " Placing a value on me far above "My real little worth." — I'd help thee to A hundred words; each one of which would far O'er-rate thy gain, and yet no single one Rate over high! Ici. Thou could'st not do it! No: Thou could'st not do it! Every term of worth Writ down and doubled, then the whole summed up, Would leave with thee a rich remainder still! Pick from each rarer pattern of thy sex Her rarest charm, till thou hast every charm Of soul and body, that can blend in woman, I would out-paragon the paragon With thee! "' Virg. And if thou would'st, I'd find thee for "Thy paragon, a mate-if that can be "A mate, which doth transcend the thing'tis taen "To match-would make thy paragon look poor,'And I would call that so o'ermatching mate' Icilius." Ici." No! I will not let thee win Oa such a theme as this! 26 VIRGINIUS. Ac h. Virg. Nor will I drop The controversy, that the richer makes me, The more I lose. Id. My sweet Virginia, We do but lose and lose, and win and win; "Playing for nothing but to lose and win" Then let us stop the game-and thus I stop it. [KIsser hle Re-enter VIRGINIUS and the others, M. D. Vir. Witness, my friends, that seal! Observe, it is A living one! It is Icilius' seal; And stamped upon as true and fair a bond — Though it receive the impress blushinglyAs ever signet kissed! Are all content? Speak, else! She is thy free affianced wife, Thou art her free affianced husband! Come, We have o'erdrawn our time-Farewell, Virginia; Thy future husband for a time must be Bellona's. To thy tasks again, my child; Be thou the bride of study for a time. Farewell! Virg. (R.) My father! Vir. (R.) May the Gods protect thee. Virg. My father! Vir. Does the blood forsake thy cheek Come to my arms once more! Remember, girl, The first and foremost debt a Roman owes, Is to his country; and it must be paid, If need be, with his life.-Why, how you hold me! Icilius, take her from me! [Icilius goes to her.] Hoal Within! Within, therel Servia! Enter SERVIA, L. Look to your child! Come, boy. Ici. (R.) Farewell, Virginia Vir. Take her in! Virg. The gods be with thee, my Icilius! Fathei The gods be with thee-and Icilius! Vir. I swear, a battle might be fought and won in hai tne time! Now once for all farewell; cKin 1.3 iRGI1NIUS 2: Your sword and buckler, boy! The foe! the foe! Does he not tread on Roman ground? Come on! Come on, charge on him! drive him back! or die! [Exeunt, Virginia and Servia, n., the rer, L SCENE III.-Appius's House. Enter APPIUS, L. App. It was a triumph, the achieving which, O'erpaid the risk was run-and that was great. They have made trial of their strength, and learned Its value from defeat. (c.) The Senate knows Its masters now; and the Decemvirate, To make its reign eternal, only wants Its own decree, which little pains will win. Ere this, the foe has, for his mad invasion, Been paid with chastisement. " Retired within "His proper limits, leisure waits upon us "To help us to the recompence, decreed "To our noble daring, who have set ourselves "In such high seats, as at our feet array "The wealth, and power, and dignity of Rome "In absolute subjection! Tyranny! " How godlike is thy port! Thou giv'st, and tak'st, "And ask'st no other leave, than what thy own " Imperial will accords.-Jove does no more!" Now, ClaudiusEnter C:LAUDIUS, R. Clau. We have suffered a defeat! App. What! The Decemvirs fly? Clau. The soldiers fight With only half a heart, " The other half "Looks on, and cares not which side proves the winLer.' App. (c.) Then decimate them. Traitors! Recreantst Why, we shall have them at our very doors! Have we lost ground, my Claudius? Clau. (R. c.) None, except What we've retraced in fame. We strove to teach The enemy their road lay backwards, but They would not turn their faces for us. Each Retains his former line. ~~28 GYVIRGINIUS. AcO I Enter MARCUS, R. App. What news? Mar. (R.) The LEqui Still press upon us. Rumours are afloat Of new disasters, which the common cry, Be sure, still multiplies and swells. Dentatus, That over-busy, crabbed veteran, Walks up and down among the people, making Your plans his theme of laughter. Naught h( stints That may reflect you in an odious light, And lower the Decemvirate. App. A dungeon Would do good service to him! Once within, Strangling were easy! We must stop his mouth-'Unwholesome food-or liquor"-Where was he When last you heard him? Mar. In the Forum. App. So! He is past service, is he not? Some way To clear the city of him. Come, we'll hear him, And answer him, and silence him!'Tis well The dog barks forth his spleen; it puts us on Our guard against his bite. Come, to the Forum! [Exeuti, R. SCENE IV.- The Forum. Enter DENTATUS, TITUS, SERVIUS, and Citizens, R. Tit. (c.) What's to be done 1 Den. (c.) We'll be undone-that's to be done. Ser. We'll do away with the Decemvirate. Den. You'll do away with the Docemvirate? The Decemvirate will do away with you! You'll do away with yourselves! Do nothing-The enemy will do away with both of you. In another month, a Roman will be a stranger in Rome. A fine pass we are come to, Masters! Tit. (R.) But something must be done. Den. Why, what would you have? You shout and ciap your hands, as if it were a victory you heard of; and yet jyou cry-Something must be done! Truly, I know not what that something is, unless it be to make ycu General How say you, Masters? ~CUM. 11.1 IIRGINIlS. 29 Ser. WAe'd follow any man that knew low to lead us, and would rid us of our foes, and the Decemvirate together. Den. You made these Decemvirs t You are strangely discontented with your own work! And you are overcunning workmen, t' ).-You put your materials so firmly together there's no such thing as taking them asunder! What you build, you build-except it be for your own good.-There you are bunglers at your craft. Ha! ha! ha! I cannot but laugh to think how you toiled, and strained, and sweated, to rear the stones of the building one above another, when I see the sorry faces you make at it! Tit. But tell us the news again. Den. Is it so good? Does it so please you? Then prick your ears again, and listen.-We have been beaten again-beaten back on our own soil. Rome has seen its haughty masters fly before chastisement, like slaves-re. turning cries for blows-and all this of your Decemvirs, gentlemen. 1st Cit. (R.) Huzza for it again! [People shout. 2d Cit. (R.) Hush! Appius comes. Den. (R.) And do you care for that? You that were, just now, within a stride of taking him and his colleagues by the throat? You'll do away with the Decemvirs, will you? And let but one of them appear, you dare not, for your life, but keep your spleen within your teeth! Listen to me, now! I'll speak the more for AppiusEnter APPIUS CLAUDIUS and MARCUS, preceded by Lictors, R. U. E. I say, to the eternal infamy of Rome, the foe has chased her sons, like hares, on their own soil, where they should prey like lions-ard'so they would, had they not keepers to tame them. App. (c.) What's that you are saying to the people. Siccius Dentatus? Den. I am regaling them with the news. App. The news? Den. (R. c.) Ay, the news-the newest that can be had: and the more novel, because unlooked for. Who ever thought to see the eagle in the talons of the kite? 30 VIRGINlUS [Ac II..App. It is LO; well done in you, Dentatus, to chafe a sore. It makes it rankle. If your surgery has learned no better, it should keep its hands to itself! You have very little to do, to busy yourself after this fashion. Den. I busy myself as I like, Appius Claudius. App. I know you do, when you labour to spread disaffection among the people, and bring the Decemvirs into contempt. Den. The Decemvirs bring themselves into contempt. App. Ha! dare you say so I Den. [Closer to him.] Dare! I have dared cry, "Come on!" to a cohort of bearded warriors-Is it thy smooth face should ap'ral me? Dare! it never yet flurried me to ise my arm —Shall I not, think you, be at my ease, when I but wag my tongue? Dare, indeed! [Laughs contemptuously, App. Your grey hairs should keep company with honester speech! Den. Shall I show you, Appius, the company they are wont to keep? Look here! and here! [Uncovering his forehead, and showing scars.] These are the vouchers of lonest deeds-such is the speech with which my grey hairs keep company. I tell you to your teeth, the Decemvirs bring themselves into contempt. App. What, are they not serving their country at tho nead of her armies? Den. They'd serve her better in the body of her armies I I'd name for thee a hundred Centurions would make better generals. A common soldier of a year's active service would take his measures better. Generals! Our generals were wont to teach us how to win battles.-Tactics are changed-Your generals instruct us how to lose them App. Do you see my lictors? Den. There are twelve of them. App. What, if I bid them seize thee? Den. They'd blush to do it. App. Why, now, Dentatus, I begin to know you fancied you a man that loved to vent [is causeless anger in an under breath, And speak it in the ear-and only then When there was safety! Such a one, you'll own, Is dangerous; and, to be trusted as eon 1.) VIRGINIUS. 31 A friend or foe, unwcrthy. But I see You rail to faces.-Have you not so much Respect for Appius, as to take him by The hand-when he confesses you have some Pretence to quarrel with his colleagues' plans, and find fault with himself Which, yet you'll own, MIay quite as well be kindly done, Dentatus, As harshly. Had you only to myself Declared your discontents, the more you had railed The more I should have thanked you. Den. Had I thought — App. And have you been campaigning then so long, And prosperously-and mistrust you, Siccius, That a young scarless soldier, like myself, Would listen to your tutoring? See, now, How much you have mistaken me! Dentatus, In a word-Can you assist the generals? And will you? Den. I have all the will,-but as For the abilityApp. Tut! tut! Dentatus, Sou vex me now! This coyness sits not well on you You know, as well as I, you have as much Ability as will. I would not think you A man that loved to find fault, but to find fault! Surely, the evil you complain of, you Would lend a hand to remedy! See, x w,'Tis fairly put to you-what say you f Den. Appius! You may use me as you please! App. And that will be, As you deserve! I'll send you, as my lgate, To the army. [Shout from the people.] Do you hear y( ui friends, Dentatus. A lucky omen, that! Away! away! Apprise your house-prepare for setting out; I'll hurry your credentials. Minutes, now, Rate high as hours! Assist my colleagues with Your counsel: —if their plans displease you, why Correct them-change them-utterly reject them I And if you meet obstruction-notice me, And I will push it by. —There now: your hand I 32 VIRGINlUS. [An x Again, away! All the success attend you, That Appius wishes you! Den. Success is from The Gods, whose hand soe'er it pleases them To send it by. I know not what success Yis Appius' wish they send; but this I know, I am a soldier; and, as a soldier, I Am bound to serve. All the success I ask, Is' that which benefits my country, Appius. [Exit Den. L, App. (c.) [Aside.] You have served her over long!Now for our causes. [Ascends Tribunal near R. s. E Claud. (L. c.) [ To Mar.] Do you see the drift of this? Marc. (L. c.) I cannot guess it. Claud. Nor I. App. [To a Plebeian, c.] Are you the suitor in this cause I Speak.! Pie. Noble Appius, if there's law in Rome To right a man most injured, to that law Against yon proud Patrician I appeal. App. No more of that, I say! Because he's rich And great, you call him proud!'Tis not unlike, Because you're poor and mean, you call yourself Injure:.-Relate your story; and, so please you, Spare epithets! Pie. Grant me a minute's pause, I shall begin. [ Virginia at this moment crosses the Stag, with/ her Nurse, and is met by Numitorius, who holds her in conversation; Appius rivets his eyes n her. NTzm. (c.) You have heard the news? Virg. (c.) What news. dear uncle! Num. Step Aside with me, I'll tell you. Takes her a little farther from the Tribunal, App. Can it be A mortal that I look upon 1 Virg. They are safe! I thank the gods! App. Her eyes look up to heaven, Like something kindred to it-rather made To send their glances down, and fill the earth With worship and with gratulation-What A thrill runs up and down my veins; and all througout ume b i VIRGINIUS. 3 Plc. Now, most noble AppiusApp. Stop; Put off tile cause, I cannot hear it now! Attend to-morrow! An oppressive closeness Allows me not to breathe-Lictors! make clear Th.e ground about the Rostrum! [Descends and ap proaches Claudius with precipitation. Claudius! Claudius!Marcus, go you and summon my physician To be at home before me. [Exit Marcus.] Claudius Claudius! there! there! Virg. (L.) You send a messenger to-night? App. (L. c.) Paint me that smile! I never saw a smil'Till now. My Claudius, is she not a wonder? I know not whether in the state of girlhood Or womanhood to call her.-'Twixt the two She stands, as that were loth to lose her, this To win her most impatient. The young year, Trembling and blushing'twixt the striving kisses Of parting spring, and meeting summer, seems Her only parallel! Num.'Tis well! I'll send Your father word of this. But have you not A message to Icilius? App. Mark you, Claudius There is a blush!-I must possess her. Virg. Tell him I think upon him.-Farewell, Numitorius! [Exit with Serwa, a, Num. (R.) Farewell, Virginia. Claund. (R. c.) Master, will you tell me Tre name of that young maiden? Num. She is called Virginia, daughter of Virginius; A Roman citizen, and a centurion In the army. Claud. Thank you; she is very like The daughter of a friend of mine. Farewell. Nunt. Farewell! Exit, R. App. (L. C.) I burn, my Claudius! brain and heart I There's not A fibre in my btcdy but's on fire! 34 vRmoGNIus..Ac nn With what a gait she moves! Such was not Hebe, Or Jupiter had sooner lost his heaven, Than changed his cup-bearer-a step like that The rapture-glowing clouds might well bear up, And never take for human! Find me, Claudius. Some way to compass the possession of her. Claud.'Tis difficult-Her father's of repute; The highest of his class. App. I guessed it! (R. c.) Friends Are ever friends, except when friends are needed. Claud. Nay, Appius!App. (R.) If thou can'st not give me hope, Be dumb! Claud. A female agent may be used With some success. App. How I How? Claud. To tamper with That woman that attends her. App. Set about it. Claud. Could she but be induced to help you to A single meeting with her. App. Claudius! Claudius! Effect but that! Claud. I'll instantly about it. App. (c.) Spare not my gold-nor stop at promises I will fulfil them fast as thou can'st make them. To purchase such a draught of extasy i'd drain a kingdom!-Set about it, Claudius! Away! I will not eat, nor drink, nor sleep, Until I hear from thee! Claud. (L. c.) Depend upon me! App.' do, my Claudius, for my liIe-my life! [Exeunt, Appius M1. D., ClaUawu, L, NDu OF ACT IL ulys I1) tRGINIUS 1 ACT II1. SCENE I.-Appius's House. Enter APPIUS, L. App. It is not love, (c.) if what I've felt before And called by such a name, be love-a thing That took its turn-that I could entertain, Put off, or humour-'tis some other thing; Or, if the same, why in some other stateOr I am not the same-or it hath found Some other part of sensibility More quick, whereon to try its power, and there Expends it all! Now, Claudius, your success? Enter CLAUDIUS, R. Claud. (R.) Nothing would do, yet nothing left undone, She was not to be purchased. App. (R. c.) Did she guessClaud. She could not, So guarded was my agent; who described you A man of power, of noble family, And regal fortune-one that asked not what His pleasures cost-no further made disclosure. App. (c.) And did it nothing move her, Claudius 1 Claud. (R. c.) Nothing. The more my agent urged, the more the shrunk And withered hag grew callous; further pressed, And with more urgent importuning, ire And scorn, in imprecations and invectives Vented upon the monster (as she called him) That would pollute her child, compelled my advocate To drop the suit she saw was hopeless. App. Now Had I a friend indeed! Claud. Has Appius need To search for such a friend, and Claudius by him? App. Friends ever are provisionally friendsFriends for so far-Friends just to such a point, And then "farewell!" friends with an understanding-. As " should the road be pret'y saf" —' the sea v1,6 v 1^Gmius. 1^- ii~ Not over-lough,' ani;l o on —fifriends of' s Aiid Zts —no friends!-Oh, could I find the mail Would be a simple, thorough-going fiiend I C'aud. I thought you had one, Appius. App. (L. c.) So thought Appius, Till Appius thought upon a test of fri'endship, Ee:fears he would not give unto himself, Could he be Appius' friend. Clad. Then Appius has A. truer friend than Appius is to Appius. I'll give that test! [Meet at c., atd ioii A amrd App. WVhat! you'd remove her father And that [cilius whom you told me of Claud. Count it as done. App. Mly Claudius, is it true? Can I believe it? art thou such a friend, That, when I looked for thee to stop and leave Rmet I fiid thee keeping with me, step by step; And even in thy loving eagerness Outstriding me? I do not want thee, Claudius, T'o soil thy hand with their plebeian blood. Claud. What would'st thou, then? App. I was left guardian to theeClaud. Thou wast..,lpp. Amongst the various property Thy father left, were many female slaves. Claud. Well? App. It were easy for thee, (were it not?) To invent a tale that one of them confessed She had sold a female infant (and of course Thy slave) unto Virginius' wife, who passed ii Upon Virginius as his daughter, whicl Supposititious offspring i;3 this same Virginia Claud. I conceive you. App. T> induce The woman to) confirm your tale, wou3d a&k But small pervv.asilil. Is it doii. Claud. Tl:is heour. I know tlb):slchool, ~l y A piu, where Virgih Is Pumu tw he:r {i u(die I; tl i Il r I'll repair And a i7o h er as r.,i sh.vt at oi ie. I' thou sec IL.] VIRGINI JS. 9 Repair to thJ tribunal, whither, should Her friends molest me in the attempt,'ll briig her, And plead my cause before thee..lpp. (L.) Claudius! Claudius! Flow shall I pay thee I Oh, thou noble friend! Power, fortune, life, whate'er belongs to Appius, Reckon as thine! Away, away, my Claudius! [Exeunt, Appius, L., Claudius, R SCENE II.-A Street mn Rome. Enter Lucius, L., meeting TITUS, SERYIUs, and CNEIUS. Luc. Well, masters, any news of Siccius Dentatus from the camp, how he was received by the Decemvirs? Tit. He was received well by the Decemvirs. Cne. It wasn't then for the love they bear him. Tit. But they expect he'll help them to return the cuffs they have gotten from the enemy. Ser. Do you wish for a victory Luc. Yes, if Dentatus wins it.'Tis to our credit, mas ters-IIe's one of us. Ser. And is not Spurius Oppius one of us? Luc. He is; but he is in league with the patricians"that is, the patrician Decemvirs." He is but half a ple beian, and that is the worse half. —" The better half he threw away when he became half a patrician." I nevei liked your half-and-half gentry; they generally combine the bad of both kinds, without the good of either. Ser. Well, we shall have news presently. Your brother, Icilius, has just arrived with despatches from the camp. I met him passing through the Forum, and asked him what news he brought? He answered, none; but added, we might look for news of another kind than what we had been lately accustomed to hear. [A shriek without, L. Cue. What's that? Tit. Look yonder, masters! See! Ser.'Tis Appius's client, dragging a young woman along with him. Tit. Let us stand by each other, masters, and prevent him. D 38 vRGPNTL;. *Act I1 Enter CLAUDIUS, L., diaggtng along VIRGINIA, foilowed by SERVIA, and others. Servia. (L. C.) Help! help! help! Luc. (c.) Let go your hold! Claud. (c.) Stand by! She is my slave! Servia. His slave Help! help! His slave?He looks more like a slave than she! Good masters! Protect the daughter of Virginius! Luc. Release the maid. Tit. Forbear this violence. Claud. I call for the assistance of the laws; She is my slave. Servia. She is my daughter, masters, My foster-daughter; and her mother was A free-born woman-and her father is A citizen, a Roman-good Virginius, As I said before-Virginius, the Centurioln, Whom all of you must know.-Help! help! I say. You see she cannot speak to help herself; Speak for her, Masters-help her, if you're men! Tit. Let go your hold. Claud. Obstruct me at your peril. Luc. We'll make you, if you will not. Claud. Let me pass. Scr. Let go your hold, once more. Claud. Good masters, patience!Hear me. I say-She is my slave-I wish not To use this violence, my friends; but may not A master seize upon his slave?-Make way, Or such of you as are dissatisfied, Repair with me to the Decemvir.-Come, I only want my right. Tit. Come on, then! Ser. Ay, To the Decemvir! Servia. Run, run for Numitorius —alarm our neighbors I -Call out Icilius's friends!-I shall go mad! Help I help I help! Exeunt, R. SCENE IIII. The Forum. Enter APPIUS, R. uE., preceded by Lictors. 1Ap. (c.) Will he succeed 7-Will he attempt it?Will he Go thro' with it?-[Looks out, L.] No sign-I almost wish He had not undertaken it; yet wish More than I wish for life, he may accomplish What he has undertaken. Oh! the pause That precedes action! It is vacancy That o'erweighs action's substance. What I fear Is, that his courage can't withstand her tears; That will be sure to try and succour her; Pointing, as'twere, to every charm, and pleading With melting eloquence. I hear a sound As of approaching clamour-and the rush Of distant feet-He comes! I must prepare For his reception. [Ascends the Tribunal. CLAUDIUS enters still holding VIRGINIA, followed by SERvIA, Women and Citizens crying " Shame!" Claud. Do not press upon me; Here's the Decemvir-he will satisfy you, Whether a master has a right or not To seize his slave when he finds her. Servia. She is no slave Of thine! She never was a slave. Thou slave I To call her by that name-Ay! threaten me! She is a free-born maid, and not a slave, Or never was a free-born maid in Rome! Oh! you shall dearly answer for it! App. Peace! What quarrel's this? Speak, those who are aggrieved. Enter NUMITORIUS, L. Num. (L.) Where is Virginia? Wherefore do you hol That maiden's hand? Claud. Who asks the question? Num. I! Her uncle Numitorius! Claud. Numitorils, you think yourself her uncle-Nu mitorius, 40 VIRGINIUS. r'ACl 1 N z blood of yours flows in her veins to give you The title you would claim. Most n( le Appius I If you sit here for justice-as I think You do, attend not to the clamour of This man, who calls himself this damsel's uncle. She is my property-was born beneath My father's roof, whose slave her mother was, Who (as I can establish past dispute) Sold her an infant to Virginius' wife, Who never had a child, and heavily Revolved her barrenness. My slave I have found And seized-as who that finds his own (no matter How long soever missed) should fear to take it? If they oppose my claim, they may produce Their counter-proofs, and bring the cause to trial! But till they prove mine own is not mine(An undertaking somewhat perilous) Mine own I shall retain-yet giving them, Should they demand it, what security They please, for re-producing her. App. Why, that Would be but reasonable. Num. Reasonable! Claudius!- [ With much vehemence-recollects himself He's but a mask upon the face Of some more powerful contriver.-[Aside.] Appius! My niece's father is from Rome, thou know'st, Serving his country. Is it not unjust, In the absence of a citizen, to suffer His right to his own child to be disputed I Grant us a day to fetch Virginius, That he himself may answer this most foul And novel suit-Meanwhile to me belongs The custody of the maid-her uncle's house Can better answer for her honour than The house of Claudius.'Tis the law of Rome, Before a final sentence, the defendant In his possession is not to sustain Disturbance from the plaintiff. Tit. A just law. Ser. And a most reasonable demands 411the'Cits. (L.) Ay! Ay! Ay 3Scvu I1I. VIRGINIUS 41 App. Silence, you citizens; will yoi restrain Your tongues, and give your magistrate permission To speak? The law is just-most reasonableI framed that law myself-I will protect That law! Tit. MIost noble Appius! "Ser. A most just decree! "All the Cits. Ay! Ay!" App. " Will you be silent? Will you please to wait " For my decree, you most untractable' And boisterous citizens! I do repeat it, I framed that law myself, and will protect it." But are you, Numitorius, here defendant? That title, none but the reputed father Of tile young woman has a right to-How Can I commit to thee, what may appear The plaintiff's property; and, if not his, Still is not thine? I'll give thee till to-morrow Ere I pass a final judgment-But the girl Remains with Claudius, who shall bind himself In such security as you require, To re-produce her at the claim of him Who calls her daughter. This is my decree. Num. A foul decree. Shame! Shame! Ser. Ay, a most foul decree. Cne. A villainous decree. Ser. Most villainous. Servia. (c.) Good citizens, what do you with our weapons, NWThen you should use your own? Your hands! —,our hands!He shall not take her from us. Gather round her, And if he touch her, be it to his cost; And if ye see him touch her, never more Expect from us your titles-never more Be husbands, brothers, lovers, at our mouths, Or anything that doth imply the name Of men-except such men as men should blush for, App. Command your wives and daughters, citizens, They quit the Forum. Servia. They shall not command us, That care not to protect us. 43 eYIRGINIS jAc I It App. Take the girl,.f she is yours. Claud. Stand by. Virg. Oh, help me! help me 1 Enter ICILIUS, L, lci. Virginia's voice! Virginia! [Rudses to ier, Virg. Oh, Icilius! [Falls fainting in hit arms Iri. Take her, good Numitorius. App. You had better Withdraw, Icilius; the affair is judged. Claud. (L. c.) I claim my slave. Ici. (c.) Stand back, thou double slave! Touch her, and I will tear thee, limb from limb, Before thy master's face.-She is my wife, My life, my heart, my heart's blood.-Touch her With but a look - App. My lictors, there, advance! See that Icilius quits the Forum.-Claudius, Secure your slave. Ici. Lictors, a moment pause, For your own sakes. Do not mistake these arms; Think not the strength of any common man Is that they feel. They serve a charmed frame, The which a power pervades, that ten times trebles The natural energy of each single nerve, To sweep you down as reeds. App. Obey my orders! lci. Appius! before I quit the Forum, let me Address a word to you. App. Be brief, then! Ici. Is't not enough you have deprived us, Appies Of the two strongest bulwarks to our liberties, Our tribunes, and our privilege of appeal To the assembly of the people? Cannot The honour of the Roman maids be safe? Thou know'st this virgin is betrothed to me, Wife of my hope-Thou shalt not cross my hope, And I retain my life-attempt it not!I stand among my fellow-citizensHis fellow-soldiers hem Virginius round, Both men and gods are on our side; but grant ~Is II] J VTuINIUS 43. I stood alone, with naught but viituous love To hearten me-alone would I defeat The execution of thy infamous Decree! I'll quit the Forum now, but not Alone-my love! my wife! my free-born maidLhe virgin standard of my pride and manhood, " Of peerless motto!-rich, and fresh, and shining, "And of device most rare and glorious"T Il bear off safe with me-unstained-untouched! [Embracing her. App. Your duty, Lictors! Claudius, look to your right I Ici. True citizens!Tit. Down with the traitor! Ser. Down with him-slay him!'LThe Lictors and Claudius are driven back; Claudius takes refuge at Appius's feet, who has descended, and throws up hzs arms as a signal to both parties to desist -whereupon the people retire a little. App. So friends! we thank you that you don't deprive us )f everything; but leave your magistrates, At least their persons, sacred-their decrees, It seems, you value as you value straws, And in like manner break them. Wherefore stop, When you have gone so far? You might, methinks, As well have killed my client at my feet, As threaten him with death before my face! Rise, Claudius! I perceive Icilius' aim; He labours to restore the tribuneship By means of a sedition. We'll not give him The least pretence of quarrel. (R. c.) We shall wait Virginius's arrival till to-morrow. His friends take care to notice him-The camp's But four hours' journey from the city. Till To-morrow, then, let me prevail with you To yield up something of your right, and let The girl remain at liberty. Claud. (R.) If they Produce security for her appearance, I am content. Tit. I'll be your security. 8e. And f. 4 VIRGINIUS. [Act ID Citizens. We'll all be your security. [They hold up their handa. Icz. My friends And fellow-citizens, I thank you; but Reserve your kindress for to-morrow, friends, If Claudius still persist-To-day, I hope, He will remain content with mysecurity, And th t of Numitorius, for the maid's Appeal ance. App. See she do appear!-and come Prepaied to pay the laws more reverence, As I si all surely see that they receive it. [Exeunt Appius, Claudius, and Lictors, M. D Ici. Look up! look up! my sweet Virginia, Lool up! look up! you will see none but friends. Oh, that such eyes should e'er meet other prospects! Virg. Icilius! Uncle! lead me home! Icilius, Yoat did not think to take a slave to wife. Ici. I thought and think to wed a free-born maid; And thou, and thou alone, art she, Virginia! Virg. I feel as I were so-I do no- think I am his slave! Virginius not my father! Virginius, my dear father, not my father! It cannot be; my life must come from him; Fnr, make him not my father, it will go From me.-I could not live, an he were not My father. Ici. Dear Virginia, calm thy thoughts. But who shall warn Virginius i Num. I've ta'en care Of that: no sooner heard I of this claim, Than I dispatched thy brother Lucius, Together with my son, to bring Virginius, With all the speed they could; and cautioned them (As he is something over quick of temper, And might snatch justice, rather than sue for it,) To evade communication of the cause, And merely say his presence was required, Till we should have him with us. Come, Virginia; Thy uncle's house shall guard thee, till thou find'st Within thy father's arms a citadel, Whence Claudius cannot take thee. v.un IV.J VRlaNIUS. 41 Ice. He shall take. thousand lives first Tit. Ay, ten thousand lives. Ici. Hear you, Virginia! Do you hear your fiends? YVirg. Let him take my life first, I am content To be his slave then-if I am his slave. Ici. Thou art a free-born Roman maid, Virginia; All Rome doth know thee so, VirginiaAll Rome will see thee so. Citizens. We will! we will! Ici. You'll meet us here to-morrow 1 Citizens. All! all! Ici. Cease not to clamour'gainst this outrage. Tell it In every corner of the city; and Let no man call himself a son of Rome, Who stands aloof when tyranny assails Her fairest daughter. Come, Virginia,'Tis not a private, but a common wrong;'Tis every father's, lover's, freeman's cause; To-morrow! fellow citizens, to-morrow! Citizens. To-morrow! [Exeunt, shouting, i SCENE IV.-The Camp. Enter S. OtPPUS and Q. F. VIBULANUS. Opp. (X.) Has he set out? Vibu. He has, my Oppius, And never to return! His guard's instructed To take good care of him. There's not a man But's ten times sold to us, and of our wishes Fully possessed. Dentatus will no more Obstruct us in our plans. He did not like The site of our encampment. He will find At least the air of it was vholesome. Opp. What Report are they instructed to bring back? Vibu. They fell into an ambush-I~e was slain. Opp. But should the truth, by any means, come out L Vibu. Imprison them, and secretly dispatch them, Or ope' the dungeon doors, and let them'scape. Opp. I should prefer the latter method Vibu. Weli, '46 VROGIN)TJS. Ac In That be our choice. But when it is det rmrn.ed To spill blood otherwise than as it may Be spilled, to hesitate about some drops Is weakness, may be fatal.-Come, my friend, Let us be seen about the camp, and ready, With most admiring ear, to catch the tidings Will be the wonder of all ears but ours. Here's one anticipates us! Enter MARCUS, -R. Well, your news? Mar. (R.) Dentatus is no more! but he has deally scld his life. The matter has been reported as you directed. By few it is received with credence-by many with doubt; while some bold spirits stop not at muttering, but loudly speak suspicion of foul play. A party that we met, a mile beyond the lines, no sooner heard our story, than they set off to bring the body to the camp. Others have followed them. Fabius, we have your gage for safety. Vibu. You-have.-Come, let us show ourselves.-Guilt hides, And we must wear the port of innocence, That more than half way meets accusal.-Come. [Exeunt, t. SCENE V.-A Mountainous Pass. —Te body of DENTATUS discovered or a bier, L. c.-Soldiers mourning ovet it.- Trumpets. Enter VIRGINIUS, R. U. E. Vir. (c.) Where Is Dentatus? Where is the gallant soldier? Ah, comrade! comrade! warm! yet warm! So lately Gone, when I would have given the world, only To say farewell to thee, or even get A parting look! Oh, gallant, gallant soldier, The god of war might sure have spared a head Grown grey in serving him! My brave old comrade The father of the field! Thy silver locks Other anointing should receive, than what Their master's blood could furnish! lit Sol. There has been treachery here. _m V) VIRGJNTUS. 47 Vir. What! Ist Sol. The slain are all our own. None of the bodies are stripped-These are all Romans. There is not the slightest trace of an enemy's retreat-And now I remember, they made a sudden halt when we came in sight of them at the foot of the mountain. Marked you not, too, with what confused haste they told their story, directed us, and hurried on to the camp 1 Vir. Revenge! The Decemvirs! Ay,the Decemvirs! For every drop of blood thou shalt have ten, Dentatus! Luc. [Without, R.] What, hoa! Virginius! Virginius Vir. Here! here! Enter Lucius, R. Luc.'Tis well you're found, Virginius! Vir. What makes you from the city? Look! My Lucius, what a sight you're come to witness. My brave old comrade! Honest Siccius!' Siccius Dentatus, that true son of Rome, " On whose white locks the mother looked more proudly " Than on the raven ones of her youngest and "Most hopeful sons, is nothing now but this, "The sign and token of himself!" Look, comrades, Here are the foes have slain him! Not a trace Of any other-not a body strippedOur father has been murdered-We'll revenge him Like sons! Take up the body! Bear it to The camp; and as you move your solemn march, Be dumb-or if you speak, be it but a word; And be that word-Revenge! [The Soldiers bear off the body, I.- Virginius ftllo* ing, is stopped by Lucius. Lu.g. (L. c.) Virginius! Vir. I did not mind thee, Lucius! Uncommon things make common things forgot. Hast thou a message for me, Lucius? Well! I'll stay and hear it-but be brief; my heart Follows my poor Dentatus. Luc. (c.) You are wanted In Rome, Vir. On what account I 48 VITRGINIUS. rAc, UI Luc. On your arrival You'll learn. Vit. How! is it something can't be told At once! Speak out, boy! Ha! your looks are loaded With matter —s't so heavy that your tongue Cannot unburden them? Your brother left The camp on duty yesterday-hath aught Happened to him? Did he arrive in safety? Is he safe? Is he well? Luc. He is both safe and well. Vir. What then? What then Tell me the matter Lucius. Luc. I have said It shall be told you. Vir. Shall! I stay not for That shall, unless it be so close at hand, It stop me not a moment.-'Tis too long A. coming. Fare you well, my Lucius. [Going, a. Luc. (c.) Stay, I.rginius.-Hear me, then, with patience. Vir. [Returns.] Well, Am patient. Luc. Your Virginia - Vir. (R. c.) Stop, my Lucius! r am cold in every member of my frame! If'tit prophetic, Lucius, of thy news, Give me such token as her tomb would, LuciusI'll bear it better-silence. Luc. You are stillVir. I thank thee, Jupiter! I am still a father I Luc. You are, Virginius-yetVir. What, is she sick? Luc. No. Vir. Neither dead nor sick! All well! No harm I Nothing amiss! Each guarded quarter safe, That fear may lay him down and sleep, and yet This sounding the alarm! I swear thou tell'st A 3tory. strangely.-Out with't! I have patience For anything, since my Virginia lives, And lives in health! Luc. You are required in Rome, To answer a most novel suit. sclm1 I1.1 VIRGINIUS. 49 Vir. Whose suit I Luc. The suit of Claudius. Vir. Claudius! Luc. Him that's client To Appius Claudius, the Decemvir. Vir. What! That pander! Ha! Virginia! you appear To couple them. What makes my fair Virginia In company with Claudius 1 Innocence Beside lasciviousness! His suit! What suit 1 Answer me quickly!-Quickly! lest suspense, Beyond what patience can endure, coercing, Drive reason from his seat! Luc. He has claimed Virginia. Vir. Claimed her! Claimed her! On what pretence? Luc. He says she is the child Of a slave of his, who sold her to thy wife. Vir. Go on, you see I'm calm. Luc. He seized her in The school, and dragged her to the Forum, where Appius was giving judgment. Vir. Dragged her to The Forum! Well 1-I told you, Lucius, I would be patient. Luc. Numitorius there confronted him. Vir. Did he not strike him dead? True, true, I know it was in presence of The Decemvir-Oh! had I confronted him! Well! well! the issue-Well! (L.) o'erleap all else, And light upon the issue! Where is she? Luc. (R.) I was dispatched to fetch thee, ere I could learn. Vir. The claim of Claudius —Appius's client-Ha I I see the master cloud (c.)-this ragged one,'hat lowers before, moves only in subservience To the ascendant of the other-Jove With its own mischief, break it, and disperse it, And that be all the ruin! Patience! Prudence E Nay, prudence, but no patience.-Come! a slave, Dragged through the streets in open day! my child My daughter! my fair daughter, in the eyes IN -0 7`IRGINIUS. [AcT 1 Of Rome! Oh! I'll be patient. Come! The essence Of my best blood in the free common ear Condemned as vile! Oh! I'll be patient. Come, Oh, they shall wonder-I will be so patient! [Exeunt, a END OF ACT III. ACT IV SCENE I.-Numitortus's Rouse. VIRGINIA discovered, c., supported by SERVIA Virg. Is he not yet arrived? Will he not come? Servia. He surely will. Virg. He surely will! More surely He had arrived already, had he known How he is wanted —" They have missed him, Seivia I "Don't tell me, but I know they have, or surely "We had not now been looking for him." Where's My uncle? Servia. Finding you had fallen asleep After such watching, he went forth to hear If there were any tidings of Virginius. He's here. Enter NUMITORIUS, R.- irginia looks at him inquisitivdr for some time. Virg. Not come! not come! I am sure of it! He will not come! Do you not think he'll come? Will not my father come? What think you, uncle? Speak to me, speak-Oh, give me any words, Rather than what looks utter. Nrum. (c.) Be composed! I hope he'll come! Virg. A little while ago You were sure of it-from certainty to hope Is a poor step; you hope he'll come-One hope, One little hope to face a thousand fears! " Do you not know he'll come! Oh, uncle, wneiefiwe "Do you not know he'll come? Had I been you, "I had made sure of it. Scuis I.] VIRGINIUS ] " Num. All has been done " That could be done. Virg. " Poor all that does so little!'One would imagine little needs be done'To bring a father to the succour of " is child!"'Tis near the time! Num. It is indeed! Virg. Must I go forth with you? Must I again Be dragged along by Claudius as his slave, And none again to succour me? Icilius! Icilius! Does your true betroth6d wife Call on you, and you hear not. My Icilius! Am I to be your wife or Claudius' slave? Where-where are you, Icilius? Enter ICILIUS, R. cli. My Virginia! What's to be done, my friend?'tis almost time. [To Numnitorius. Virg. I hear what you are saying-it is time"Oh, who could have believed it, that Icilius "Should ever say'twas time to yield me to' Another's claim."-And will you give me up? Can you devise no means to keep me from him? Could we not fly? [Icilius looks earnestly at Numitorius, who fixes his eyes steadfastly on the ground: Icilius droops his head. I see!-Your pledge Must be redeemed, although it cost you your Virginia. Vir. [ WVithout, R.] Is she here? Virg. Ah! Enter VIRGINIUS R. Vir. My child! my child! [Virginia rushes into her father's arms. Virg. I am! I feel I am! I know I am! My father! my dear father "I despaired "Of seeing you'" You're come! and come in time. And, Oh! how much the more in time, when hope Had given you up. *' Oh! welcome, welcome foot, "Whose wishdd step is heard when least expected!" Fir. (c.) Brother! Icilius! thank you! thank you-r-AU t V I RGININUS AcT I1 Has been communlicated to me. Ay! And would they take thee from me? Let them tvy it! You've ta'en your measures well — scarce could pass Along, so was I checked by loving hands Ready to serve me. Hands with hearts in them! So thou art Claudius' slave? And if thou art, I'm surely not thy father! Blistered villain! You have warned our neighbours, have you not, to aiten' As witnesses? To be sure you have. A fool To ask the question! Dragged along the streets, too! Twas very kind in him to go himself And fetch thee-such an honour should not p)ass Without acknowledgment. I shall return it In full! In full! Num. (R. c.) Pray you, be prudent, brother. Virg. (c.) Dear father, be advised-Will you not, fa ther X Vir. I never saw you look so like your mother In all my life! Virg. You'll be advised, dear father? Vir. It was her soul-her soul, that played just then About the features of her child, and lit them Into the likeness of her own. When first She placed thee in my arms-I recollect it As a thing of yesterday!-she wished, she said, That it had been a man. I answered her, It was the mother of a race of men, And paid her for thee with a kiss. Her li:s Are cold now-could they but be warmed again, How they woul clamour for thee! Virg. My dear father, You do not answer me! Will you not be advised I Vir. I will not take him by the throat and strangle him I But I could do it! I could do it! Fear not: I will not strike while any head I love Is in the way. It is not now a time To tell thee-but, would'st thou believe it! —honeet Siccius Dentatus has been murdered by them. Ici. Murdered I.Jum. Dentatus murdered! Virg. Oh! how much lHave we to fear. ocXn 11.] VIRGINIUS. 69 Vir.'We have the less to fear. r spread the news at every step-A fire Is kindled, that will blaze at but a breath Into the fiercest flame! Num.'Tis time. Let's haste To the Forum. 0oing, L Vir. Let the Forum wait for us! Put on no show of fear, when villainy Would wrestle with you! It can keep its feet Only with cowards! I shall walk along Slowly and calmly, with my daughter thus In my hand: though with another kind of gripe Than that which Claudius gave her. Well, I say, I'll walk along thus, in the eyes of Rome. Go you before, and what appeal soe'er You please, make you to rouse up friends. For me, I shall be mute-my eloquence is hereHer tears-her youth-her innocence-her beauty! If orators like these can't move the heart, Tongues surely may be dumb. Ici. (L. c.) A thousand hearts Have spoke already in her cause! Vir. Come on! Fear not! it is your father's grasp you feel. Oh, he'll be strong as never man was, that Will take thee from it. Come, Virginia; We trust our cause to Rome and to the gods! [Leads her of, R. Icilius, Ac., follow. SCENE II.-The Forum. Enter APPIUS and LICTORS, R. U. E. App. See you keep back the people! Use your fasces With firmer hands, or hearts. Your hands are firm Enough, would but your hearts perform their office, And leave your hands at liberty, not hang "Upon them with unseemly fears and clamours!" Look to it! "Time! hadst thou the theme that 1 have "Fo. speed, thou would'st not move this cripple's gait "But there's no urging thee, and thou wast ever "Dull fellow traveller to young Impatience, "Dragging him back upon the road he pants "To run, but c:annot find without thee." i4 VIRGIN1Ut.'ACT IV Enter MARCUS, R. Well' Mlars (R.) News has arrived, that speaks as if Dentatu. Was murdered by the order of your colleagues! There's not a face I meet but lowers with it: The streets are filled with thronging groups, that, as You pass, grow silent, and look sullen round on you, Then fall again to converse. App. (c.)'Tis ill timed. Marc. What say you, Appius? App. Murder's ill timed, I say, Happen when'twill; but now is most ill timed, When Rome is in a ferment, on account Of Claudius, and this girl he calls his slave; "For come when evil will, or how it will, "All's laid to our account!" Look out and see If Claudius be approaching yet. [ Marcus retires into back ground. " My wish, "Like an offir ous fiiend, comes out of time "To tell me of success. I had rather far " It had miscarried-they run high enough;' They wanted not this squall on squall to raise them Above their present swell-the waves run high "Enough, through which we steer:-but such a haven, "If won, can never be too dearly won!" Marc. [Advancing.] Claudius is here! Eniter CLAUDIUS, L. App. Well, Claudius, are the forces At hand? Claud. They are, and timely, too; the people Are in unwonted ferment. App. I have heard Word has arrived of old Dentatus' death; Which, as I hear, and wonder not to hear it, The mutinous citizens lay to our account. Claud. That's bad enough; yet —App. Ha! what's worse? Claud.'Tis best At once to speak what you must learn at last, Yet last of all would learn. lr ll. VIRINIUs 56 App. Virginius! Claud. Yes! He has arrived in Rome. Marc. They are coming, Appius. Claud. Fly, Marcus, hursy down the fore \s [Exit A.arcus, R.] Appius, Be not o'erwhelmed!./pp. There's something awes me at The thought of looking on her father! Claud. Look On her, my Appius! Fix your gaze upon The treasures of her beauty, nor avert it Till they are thine! Haste! Your tribunal! Haste! APPIUS ascends the tribunal.-Enter, L., NUMITORIUS, ICILIUS, Lucius, CITIZENS, VIRGINIUS leading his Daughter, SERVIA, and CITIZENS.-A dead silence prevails.Tirginius and Daughter stand L. Vir. Does no one speak? I am defendant here? Is silence my opponent? Fit opponent To plead a cause too foul for speech! What brow Shameless, gives front to this most valiant cause, That tries its prowess'gainst the honour of A girl, yet lacks the wit to know, that they Who cast off shame, should likewise cast off fear! "And on the verge o' the combat wants the nerve To stammer forth the signal 1" App. You had better, Virginius, wear another kind of carriage: This is not of the fashion that will serve you. Vir. (c.) [Having left Virg. L. with Icilius.] The fashion, Appius! Appius Claudius, tell me The fashion it becorr es a man to speak in, Whose property in t is own child-the offspring Of his own body, near to him as is His hand, his arm-yea, nearer-closer far, Knit to his heart-I say, who has his property In such a thing, the very self of himself, Disputed-and I'll speak so, Appius Claudius: I'll speak so-Pray you, t'ltor me! App. Stand forth, Claudius! If you lay claim to any interest 66 VIRGINIUS. rAT nI In the question now before ns, speak! If n wt, Bting on some other cause. Claud. (R. c.) Most noble AppiusVir. And are you the man That claims my daughter for his slave — Look at me, And I will give her to thee. Claud. She is mine, then: Do I not look at you 1 Vir. Your eye does, truly, But not your soul.-I see it through your eye, Shifting and shrinking-turning every way To shun me. "You surpise me, that your eye, " So long the bully of its master, knows not " To put a proper face upon a lie, " But gives the port of impudence to falsehood, " When it would pass it off for truth." Your soul Dares as soon show its face to me! —Go on, I had forgot; the fashion of my speech May not please Appius Claudius. Claud. I demand Protection of the Decemvir! App. You shall have it. Vir. Doubtless! App. Keep back the people, Lictors! What's Your plea? You say the girl's your slave-Produce Your proofs. Claud. My proof is here, which, if they can, Let them confront. The mother of the girl[ Virginius about to speak, is withheld by Numztorius. Num. (L. c.) Hold, brother! Hear them out, or suffet me To speak. Vir. (L. C.) Man, I must speak, or else go mad! And if I do go mad, what then will hold me Fiom speaking? " Were't not better, brother, think you, "To speak and not go mad, than to go mad, "And then to speak V" She was thy sister, too! Well, well, speak thou.-I'll try, and if I can, Be silent. [Retires. Num. Will she swear she is her child? Vir. [Starting forward.] To be sure she will-a most wise question that! doXhX II.) VIRGINIAS M* Is she not his slave? Will his tongue lie for him_Or his hand steal —or the finger of his hand Beckon, or point, or shut, or open for him To ask him if she'll swear!-Will she walk or run, Sing, dance, or wag her head; do anything That is most easy done? She'll as soon swear! What mockery it is to have one's life In jeopardy by such a bare-faced trick! Is it to be endured? I do protest Against her oath! App. No law in Rome, Virginius, Seconds you. If she swear the girl's her child, The evidence is good, unless confronted By better evidence. Look you to that, Virginius. I shall take the woman's oath. Virg. Icilius! Ici. Fear not, love; a thousand oaths Will answer her. App. [To the Slave, L.] You swear the girl's your child, And that you sold her to Virginius' wife, Who passed her for her own-Is that your oath? Slave. [Coming round to the.front of the Tribunal.] It if my oath. App. Your answer now, Virginius. Vir. Here it is! [Brings Virginia forward, c. Is this the daughter of a slave? I know'Tis not with men, as shrubs and trees, that by The shoot you know the rank and order of The stem. Yet who from such a stem would look For such a shoot? My witnesses are theseThe friends and relatives of Numitoria, Who saw her, ere Virginia's birth, sustain The burden which a mother bears, nor feels The weight, with longing for the sight of it. Here are the ears that listened to her sighs In nature's hour of labour, which subsides In the embrace of joy-the hands, that when The day firsc looked upon the infant's face, And never looked so pleased, helped them up to it; And blessed her for a blessing-Here, the eyes That saw her lying at the generous And sympathetic ftunt, that at her cry 68 vnRGINIus. rAnt n Seaet forth a stream of liquid living pearl, To cherish her enamelled veins. The lie Is most unfruitful, then, that takes the flowexThe very flower our bed connubial grewTo prove its barrenness! Speak for me, friends: Have I not spoken the truth t fWomen 4. Citizens. You have, Virginius. App. Silence! keep silence there.-No more of that! You're very ready for a tumult, citizens. [ Troops appear behind. Lictors, make way to let these troops advance! We have had a taste of your forbearance, masters, And wish not for another. Vir. Troops in the Forum! App. Virginius, have you spoken? Vir. If you have heard me, I have; if not, I'll speak again. App. You need not, Virginius; I have evidence to give, Which, should you speak a hundred times again, Would make your pleading vain. Vir. Your hand, Virginia! Stand close to me. [Aside. App. My conscience will not let me Be silent.'Tis notorious to you all, That Claudius' father, at his death, declared me The guardian of his son-This cheat has long Been known to me. I know the girl is not Virginius' daughter. Vir. Join your friends, Icilius, And leave Virginia to my care. [Aside, L. o. "App. The justice'I should have done my client, unrequired,'Now cited by him, how shall I refuse I" Vir. Don't tremble, girl, don't tremble. [Asi&. App. Virginius, I feel for you; but, though you were my father, The majesty of justice should be sacredClaudius must take Virginia home with him I Vir. And if he must, I should advise him, Appius, To take her home in time, before his guardian Complete the violat:in, which his eyes isasr 1.) VIRaoINIsU. 69 Already have begun. [Turning to Citicens.] Friends I fellow citizens! Look not on Claudius-Look cn your Decemvir! He is the master claims Virginia! The tongues that told him she was not my child, Are these-the costly charms he cannot purchase, Except by making her the slave of Claudius, His client, his purveyor, that caters for His pleasures-markets for him-picks, and scents, And tastes, that he may banquet-serves him up His sensual feast, and is not now ashamed, In the open, common street, before your eyesFrighting your daughters' and your matrons' cheeks With blushes they ne'er thought to meet-to help him To the honour of a Roman maid! my child! Who now clings to me, as you see, as if This second Tarquin had already coiled His arms around her. Look upon her, Romans! Befriend her! succour her! see her not polluted Before her father's eyes!-He is but one. Tear her from Appius and his Lictors, while She is unstained-Your hands! your hands! your hands I Citizens. They are yours, Virginius. App. Keep the people backSupport my Lictors, soldiers! Seize the girl, And drive the people back. Ici. (L.) Down with the slaves! [The people make a show of resistance, but, upon the advancing of the Soldiers, retreat, and leave Icilius, Vir. ginius and his Daughter, 4c. in the hands of Appius and his party. Deserted!-Cowards! Traitors! "Let me free "But for a moment! I relied on you; "Had I relied upon myself alone, " I had kept them still at bay! I kneel to yvu" Let me but loose a moment, if'tis only " To rush upon your swo;ds!" Vir. Icilius, peace! You see how'tis, we are deserted, left Alone by our friends, surrounded by car enemies, Nerveless and helpless. App. Away with him! D 0 VIRGINIUS ACT M. ki. Virginia! Tyrant! My A rginia App. Away with him! [lcilius ts taken atide, Separate them, Lictors! Vir. Let them forbear awhile, I pray you, Appius t It is not very easy. Though her arms Are tender, yet the hold is strong, by which She grasps me, Appius-Forcing them will hurt ther They'll soon unclasp themselves. Wait but a little.You know you're sure of her! App. I have not time To idle with thee, give her to my Lictors. Vir. Appius, I pray you, wait! If she is not My child, she hath been like a child to me For fifteen years. If I am not her father I have been like a father to her, Appius, For even such a time. " They that have lived "So long a time together, in so near "And dear society, may be allowed " A little time for parting." Let me take The maid aside, I pray you, and confer A moment with her nurse; perhaps she'll give me Some token, will unloose a tie so twined And knotted round my heart, that if you break it, My heart breaks with it. App. Have your wish. Be brief! Lictors, look to them. Virg. Do you go from me! Do you leave! Father! F ther! Vir. No, my child; No, my Virginia-come along with me. Virg. Will you not leave me? Will you take me with you? Will you take me home again? Oh,bless you, bless you! My father! my dear father! Art thou not My father? [ Virginius, perfectly at a loss what to do, looks anxiously around the Forum; at length his eye falls on a butcher's stall, L., with a knife upon it. Vir. This way, my child-No, no! I am not going To leave thee, my Virginia! I'll not leave thee. App. Keep back the pecole, soldiers! Let them not Approach Virginius! Keep the people back! Virginius secures the kntfe in the folds of his toga. 9xam II.J VIRGINIUS t1 Well, have you done I Vir. Short time for converse, Appius; But I have. App. I hope you are satisfied. Vir. I amI am-that she is my daughter! App. Take her, Lictors! [Virginia shrieks, and falls half dead upon her father's shoulder. Vir. Another moment, pray you. Bear with me A little-'Tis my last embrace.'Twont try Your patience beyond bearing, if you're a man! Lengthen it as I may, I cannot make it Long! My dear child! My dear Virginia! [Kissing her. There is one only way to save thine honour-'Tis this!- [Stabs her and draws out the knife.-She falls and dies, L. Lo! Appius; with this innocent blood, I do devote thee to th' infernal gods! Make way there! App. Stop him! Seize him! Vir. If they dare To tempt the desperate weapon that is maddened With drinking my daughter's blood, why, let them: Thus It rushes in amongst them. Way there! Way! [Exit through the Soldiers. "Enter HoNoRIus and VALERIUS. "Hon. What tumult's this? "The fair Virginia "Killed by her father's hand, to save her from " The lust of Appius Claudius T Most foul cause, "That makes so dark a deed look fair! "App. Remove The body, Lictors. " Ici. At the peril of "Their lives Death is abroad, at work, and most "In earnest when with such a feat as this "He opens his exploits!' App. Obey me, slaves! Hon. Defend the body, fieemen. There's a spark "Remaining still, which, though not strong enough "To light it up with its own beauteous life, E Q mIRGNIUS rAece May yet rekindle liberty, and save Expiring Rome! "Cits. It shall not be removed! "App. Seize it, I say! " Val. Back, slaves! Give place to freeencn! "[A tumult ensues; the people deprive the Lictors of " their fasces, and drive them, with the Soldiers, with "Appius Claudius, fc., of' the Stage, then return " shouting. Ici. Ay, shout, and shout: a far more glorious cause " Called for your voices, and you had not then "The breath to whisper. How that ear had thanked you "Had you as tender been of the jewel of "Its precious sense, as of the empty casket! " Hon. A litter, citizens, to lift the body, "And bear it through the streets; the spectacle "Will fill all eyes with tears, all hearts with fire! " ici. No hand but mine shall touch it: I will be " Its living bier. " ion. Icilius, listen to me! "Thou art not now thyself, and knowest not "There is a sweeter strain than that of grief"Revenge, that drowns it. Suffer us to bear "Thy bride along the streets; a second, but "Unstained Lucretia, buying, with her blood, "The life of Rome and freedom! " Ici. Rome and freedom! "There is your ransom! such a costly one"Oh, you are dear, to be so dearly w' n! Exewurt" END OF ACT IV, ACT V. SCENE I.-A Street. Enter APPIUS, L. App. I do abjure all further league with them: They have most basely yielded up their power, " And compromised their glory. Had they died Seir Il. VIRGINIUS 63 " In their high seats, they had lived de tti-gocs; "But now they live to die like basest men!" Power gone, life follows! (c.) Well!'tis well we know The woist! (R.) The worst?-The worst is yet to come, And if I err not, hither speeds a messenger Whose heel it treads upon. Enter VIBULANUS, h7astily, and other Decemvirs, with MAR CUS, L. Vibu. Honorius and Valerius are elected To the Consulate.-Virginius is made Tribune" App. No doubt they'd fill their offices, when ours "Were laid so poorly down.-You have acted wisely I' Vibu. Who could resist Virginius, raving at " The head of the revolted troops, with all "The commons up in arms? Waste not dear time! " Look to your safety, Appius.'Tis resolved "' To cite you instantly before the Consuls. " App. Look to my safety, say you? You would bid "A man that's tumbling from a precipice " A hundred fathoms high, and midway down, " Look to his safety! What has he to snatch at? "Air!-E'en so much have I. " Vibu. Withdraw awhile " From Rome. We shall recal you with applause "And honours. "App. Yes! you saw me on the brink"Beheld it giving way beneath my feet"And saw me tottering o'er the hideous leap, "Whose sight sent round the brain with maddenirg whirl, "With but a twig to stay me, which you cut, "Because it was your friend that hung by itMost kindly. " Vibu. Nay," employ the present time In looking to your safety-" that secured, Reproach us as you will." App. I am in your hands, Lead me which way you please. Ici. [Without.] Hold! Stand! Enter ICILIUS, with HONORIUS and VALERIUS as COnuSb NUMITORIUS and LICTORS, L. Did I not tell you'twas the tyrant? Look, 64 RoINIS. [acV Was I not right? I felt that he was preent, Ere mine eye told it me.-You are our prisoner. App. On what pretence, Icilius? Ici. Ask of poor Virginius, tottering between despair And madness, as he seeks the home where once He found a daughter! App. I demand due time To make up my defence. Ici. Demand due time! Appius!-Assign the cause why you denied A Roman maid, of free condition, Her liberty provisionally, while Her plea remained unjudged. No answer, Appius I Lictors, lay hold upon him-to prison with him! Look to him well. To prison with the tyrant! [Exeunt Appius and Lictors, R., Icilius and Numtso rius, L. Vibu. Let all his friends, that their own safety prize. Solicit straight for his enlargement; doff Their marks of station, and to the vulgar eye Disguise it with the garb of mourning:'twill Conciliate the crowd.-We know them well: But humour them, they are water soon as fire! [Exeunt severally. SCENE II.- Virginius's House. Enter LUCIvs and SERVIA, L. Luc. (c.) Is he not yet come home? Servia. (c.) Not since her death. I dread his coming home, good Lucius. Luc. (L.) A step!'Tis Numitorius and Virginius. Servia. Gods! how he looks! —See, Lucius, how he looks! Enter VIRGINIUS, attended by NUMITORIUS and others, L. Vir. (c.)'Tis ease!'tis ease! I am content!'Tit peace, Tis anything that is most soft and quiet. And after such a dream!-I want my raunghter; Send me my daughter I scwux I.] vIRGINIUS. 6 Num. Yes his reason's gone. Scarce had he come in sight of his once sweet And happy home, ere with a cry he fell As one struck dead. —-When to himself he came, We found him as you see. How is it, brother? Vir. How should it be, but well? Our cause is good Think you Rome will stand by, and see a man Robbed of his child. We are bad enough, but yet They should not so mistake us. " We are slaves,' But not yet monsters." —Call my daughter to me. What keeps her thus. I fever stepped within The threshold yet, without her meeting me With a kiss. She's very long a-coming. Call her Num. Icilius comes! See, my Icilius, see! Enter Icl.tXs, L. Vir. Come, come, make ready. 3t other, you and he Go on before: I'll bring her after y>,u. Ici. Ha! Num. My Icilius, what a sight is therv! Virginius' reason is a wreck, so stripped And broken by wave and wind, you scarce Would know it was the gallant bark you sa, Riding so late in safety! Ici. [Taking Virginius's ilqnd.] Father! Iath;r I That art no more a father! Vir. Ha! what wet Is this upon my hand? a tear, boy! Fie, For shame! Is that the weapon you would guard Your bride with? First assay what steel can do! Num. Not a tear has blessed his eye since her deathl No wonder. The fever of his brain, that now burns out, Has drunk the source of sorrow's torrent (3rv. Ici. You would not have it otherwise?' "was l The bolt that struck the sole remaining bra.ch, And blasted it, should set the trunk on fire! Num. If we could make him weep — Ici. (L.) I have that will make him, If aught will do it.'Tis her urn.'Twas that Which first drew tears from me. I'll fetch it. B' I cannot think you wise, to vake a man 66 VIRGINIUS rACY T Who's at the mercy of a tempest. Better You suffer him to sleep it through. fExt, L, Vir. Gather your friends together: tell them of Dentatus' murder. Screw the chord of rage To the topmost pitch. Mine own is not mine own [Laughs. That's strange enough. Why does he rot dispute My right to my own flesh, and tell my heart Its blood is not its own I He might as well. [Laughs But I want my child. Enter Lucius, L. Luc. Justice will be defeated! Vir. (c.) Who says that 1 He lies in the face of the gods! She is immutable, Immaculate, and immortal! And though all The guilty globe should blaze, she will spring up Through the fire, and soar above the crackling pile, With not a downy feather ruffled by Its fierceness! J"rum. (L. c.) He is not himself! What new Oppression comes to tell us to our teeth, We only mocked ourselves to think the days Of thraldom past? Luc. The friends of Appius Beset the people with solicitations. The fickle crowd, that change with every change, Begin to doubt and soften. Every moment That's lost, a friend is lost. Appear among Your friends, or lose them! Num. Lucius, you Remain and watch Virginius. [Exit, L. followed by all but Lucius and Serva. Vir. You remember, Don't you, nurse? Servia. What, Virginius? Vir. That she nursed The child herself. "Inquire among your gossips "Which of them saw it; and, with such of them'As can avouch the fact, without delay,'Repair to the Forum." Will she come or not? I'll call myself! —She will not dare!-Oh, wl:en K^M HIttl.J 1Ktr^ISt 97 Did my Virginia dare-Virginia! Is it a voice, or nothing, answers me. I hear a sound so fine-there's nothing lives'Twixt it and silence. " Such a slender one'I've heard, when I have talked with her in fancy I "A phantom sound!" Aha! She is not here! They told me she was here: they have deceived me And Appius was not made to give her up, But keeps her, and effects his wicked purpose, While I stand talking here, and ask you if My daughter is my daughter! Though a legion Sentried that brothel, which he calls his palace, I'd tear her from him! Luc. Hold, Virginius! Stay! Appius is now in prison. Vir. With my daughter! He has secured her there! Ha! has he so 1 Gay office for a dungeon! Hold me not, Or I will dash you down, and spoil you for Mly keeper. My Virginia, struggle with him! Appal him with thy shrieks; ne'er faint, ne'er fair I am coming to thee! I am coming to thee! [Rushes out L., followed by Lucius, Servia, and others. SCENE IIt.-A Dungeon. APPIUS discovered. App. From the palace to the dungeon is a road Trod oft, not oft retrod. What hope have I To pace it back again? I know of none. I am as one that's dead! "The dungeon, that "Encloses fallen greatness, may as well " Be called its tomb." I am as much the carcass Of myself, as if the string were taken fiom My neck. Their hands long for the office. Oh.'Tis worth the half of a plebeian's life To get his greasy fingers on the throat Of a patrician! But I'll baulk them. Come I Appius shall have an executioner No less illustrious than himself. [lie is on the point of swallowing poison, u cen VIIULA. NUS enters, R. 68 VIRGINTOS Ar Who's there 1 Vibu. Your friend!./pp. My Vibulanus! Vibu. Appius, what Was that you hid in such confusion as I entered? App.'Tis a draught for life, which, swallowed She relishes so richly, that she cares not If she ne'er drink again! Here's heaJth to you! Vibu. Not out of such a cup as that, my Appius "Despair, that bids you drink it, as the cure "Of cankered life, but lies to you, and turns "Your eyes from hope, that even now stands ready "With outstretched arms, to rush to your embrace" Your friends are busy for you with your foesYour foes become your friends. Where'er a frown Appears against you, nothing's spared to make The wearer doff it, and put up a smile In its stead. " Your colleague Oppius is in prison. "Your client, too. Their harm's your safety: it "Distracts the appetite o' the dogs. They drop "The morsel they took up before, as soon As a new one's thrown to them." App. Thou giv'st me life Indeed! Vibu. That I may give thee life indeed, I'll waste no longer time with thee; "for that "Already taken to assure thee of "Thy fast reviving fortunes, cheats them of "The aid should help to re-establish them." Farewell, my Appius! If my absence takes A friend from thee, it leaves one with thee-Hope! [Exit, a, App. And I will clasp it to me! Never friend Made sweeter promises. But snatch me from Beneath the feet of the vile herd, that's now Broke loose and roams at large, I'll show them who They'd trample on. "Hope! Iope! They say of they "Thou art a friend that promises, but cares not "To keep his word. This once keep thine with Appius And he will give thee out so true a tongue, "Thy ward is bond enough!"-At liberty! ScEra IfI. VIRGINIUS. 69 Again at liberty! Oh, give me power As well, for every minute of my thraldom 1'11 pick a victim from the common herd Shall groan his life in bondage. "Liberty! "'Tis triumph, power, dominion, every thing!" Are ye not open yet, ye servile gates? Let fall your chains, and push your bolts aside It is your past and future lord commands you! Vir. (Rushing in, R.) Give me my daughter! App. Ha! Vir. My child! my daughter! My daughter! my Virginia! Give her me! App. Thy daughter! Vir. (c.) Ay! Deny that she is mine, And I will strangle thee, unless the lie Should choke thee first App. Thy daughter! Vir. Play not with me! Provoke me not! Equivocate, and lo! Thou sport'st width fire. I am wild, distracted, mad I I am all a flame-a flame! I tell thee once For all, I want my child, and I will have her; So give her to me. App. Caged with a madman! Hoa! Without, there! Vir. Not a step thou stirr'st from hence, Till I have found my child. "Attempt that noise "Again, and I will stop the vent, that not A squeak shall pass it. There are plugs for you, "Will keep it air-tight [Shows his fingers.]" Please you, give me back My daughter. App. In truth she is not here, Virginius; Or I would give her to thee. Vir. Would? Ay, should! Though would were would r.ot. Do you say, indeed, She is not here? You nothing know of her? App. Nothing, Virginius! good Virginius, nothing. Vir. How if I thrust my hand into your breast, And tore your heart out, and confronted it With your tongue? I'd like it. Shall we try it? Fool I 70 VIR( INIUS. [Acs! Are not the ruffians leagued? The one would swear To the tale o' the other. App. By the gods, Virginius, Your daughter is not in my keeping. Vir. Well, Then I must seek her elsewhere. I did dream That I had murdered her-'Tis false!'twas but A dream-She isn't here, you say-Well! well i Then I must go and seek her elsewhere-Yet She's not at home-and where else should I seek her, But there or here? Here! here! here! Yes, I say, But there or here-I tell you I must find herShe must be here, or what do you here? What, But such a wonder of rich beauty could Deck out a dungeon, so as to despoil A palace of its tenant? Art thou not The tyrant Appius? Did'st thou not decree My daughter to be Claudius' slave, who gave her To his master? Have you not secured her here To compass her dishonour, ere her father Arrives to claim her? App. No. Vir. Do you tell me so? Vile tyrant! Think you, shall I not believe My own eyes before your tongue? Why, there she is I There at your back —her locks dishevelled, and Her vestment torn! Her cheeks all faded with Her pouring tears, "as flowers with too much rain!" Her form no longer kept and treasured up "By her maiden-pride, like a rich casket, cast "Aside, neglected, and forgot, because " The richer gem was shrined in it is lost!" Villain! is this a sight to show a father? And have I not a weapon to requite thee? [Searches about his clotiea Ha! here are ten! App. Keep down your hands! Help! help! Vir. No other look but that! Look on! look on! It turns my very flesh to steel-Brave girl! Keep thine eye fixed-let it not wink-Look on! [Exeunt, struggling, L. 5cxX Iv..J VIRGINIUS. 71 Enter, R., NUMITORILS, ICILIUS, Lucius, GUARD, and SOL. DIR. Num. Not here! Luc. Is this the dungeon? Appius is not here, Nor yet Virginius. You have sure mistaken. Guard. This is the dungeon-Here Virginius entered. Num. Yet is not here! Hush! The abode of death Is just as silent. Gods! should the tyrant take The father's life, in satisfaction for The deed that robbed him of the daughter's charmsHush! hark! A groan There's something stirs. Luc.'Tis this way! Num. Come on! Protect him, gods, or pardon me, If with my own hand I revenge his death. [Exeunt, L, SCENE IV.-Another Dungeon. —VRGINIUS discovered or one knee, with APPIUS lying dead before him. Enter NUMITORIUS, ICILIUS, with the Urn of Virginia,,nd Lucius. Num. What's here? Virginius! with the tyrant pros. trate and dead! Luc. His senses are benumbed; there is no adit to ni& mind, by which our words can reach it. Help to raise him: the motion may recal perception. Num. His eye is not so death-like fixed: it moves a lit. tle. Luc. Speak to him, Numitorius; he knows your voice the best. Numn. Virginius! Luc. I think he hears you; speak again. Num. Virginius! Vir. Ah! [Rises and comes forward, supported by Numitorius and Lucius. Luc. That sigh has burst the spell which held him. Num. Virginius! my dear brother! Vir. Lighter! lighter! My heart is ten tirnes lighter What a load it has heaved off! Where is he I 1 thought I had done it. Num. Virginius I 72 VIRGINIUS [AcT V Vir. Well, who are you? What do you want I'll answer what I've done. Num. Do you not know me, brother? Speak, Icilius, try if he knows you. Ici. (R.) Virginius! Num. Try again. Ici. Virginius! Vir. [Sinking.] That voice-that voice-I know that voice! It minds me of a voice was coupled with it, And made such music, once to hear it was Enough to make it ever after be Remembered! [Icilius places the Urn in his right hand.] What's this 1 Tci. Virginia! DISPOSITION OF THE CHARACTERS AT THE FALL OF THE CURTAIN. Virginius looks alternately at Icilius and the Urn — looks at Numztorius and Lucius-seems particularly struck by his mourning-looks at the Urn again-. bursts into a passion of tears, and exclaims, " Virgiid I"-Falls on Icilius's neck. Curtain dropt. TE RMB FREiCH'S SCENES FOR AMATEURS. From approved designs. Repre',nting scenes suitable for any piece. These are invaluable to a.mateur scene painters and also a great guide and help to professionpls. }Measurement 16 in. by 12' in. Price Colored, each, 30 cents. Plain, each, 15 cents. BACK SCENES. The letters denote what borders and sides will go with the scenes. 1. Cottage, Interior (jb) 10. Library (j) 18. Attic (bj ) 2. " Exterior (af) 11. Street, Foreign (e) 19. Lodging House Room(j) I 3. Wood (aj ) 12. Roadside Inn with 20. Villa (af) 4. Prison (c 1) river and bridge (k 21. Court of Justice (h) 5. Field (a k) 13. Foreign Hotel ext.(af) 22. Baronial Hall (h b) 6. Castle (k) 14. Ship Deck 23. Proscenium, right 7. Street (g) 15. Seascape (k) 23A " lett 8. Palace (d h) 16. Cave tc 1) 24. Curtain 9. Drawing-room (j) 17. Mountain Pass (b k) 25. Drop Scene. BORDET3 AND SIDES. a Foliage Borders. 1 e oreigu Exterior Sides. j Interior Sides. b Rocks and Raft Bo2.er;.. f -e3e ides. k Field and Rock Sides. c Stone Borders, Exterior Sides. I Stone Sides. d Fancy Borders. h Pillar Sides. FRENCH'S AMATEUR OPERAS, FOR STAGE AND DRAWING-ROOM. Comprising some of the best works of the great composers, and arranged Fo that they c.ln be performed in any drawing-room. Each book is complete in itself, containing the Libretto, Staqe Directions, Music, Costumes, and Properties, elegantly finished, and the size of ordinary music, illuminated cover. This series is superior to any other published. The lollowing are ready: PRICE 40 CENTS EACH. M F The Rose of Auvergne, or "Spoiling the Broth,"1 act. Musicby Offenbach 2 1 iThe liind Beggars, by Offenbach, 1 act.......................... 2 1 The Barber of Bath, Offenbach, 1 act.................................... 3 11 M Mty New Maid, composed by Charles Lecocq, 1 act..................... 0 2 A Fit of the Blues, composed by V. Robillard, 1 act........................ 1 Breaking lhe Spell, Offeabach, 1 act..................................... 2 1 Forty Winks, Offenbach, 1 act............................. 2 1 Grass Widows, V. Gabriel, 1 act.......................................... 1 2 Retain d on Both Sides, Lecocq........................................... 1 I Loan of a Lover........................................................ 4 2 Trial by Jury, composed by Arthur Sullivan, 1 act, words oy W. S. Gilbert. This is very amusing and very pretty. There are five males, as well as twelve jurymen (the chorus), and one female character and eight bridesmaids, also the chorus. If these numbers be not convenient, any number will do.................................................. 17 9 TABLEEAUX VIVANTS, ARRANGED FOR PRIVATE REPRtESENTATION. BY J. V. PRICHARD. Containing 80 selected Tableaux, with instructions how to get them up, cast of characters, costumes required, aid full description of each picture. Also information respecting the use of the Tableaux Lights, and other effects, and describing the music required for each representation. Price, 25 cents. THEATRICAL AND FANCY COSTUME WIGS, &c., A large assortment of above kept in Stock. No Wigs lent out on hire. Any Wig can be made to order. For prices and description, see CATALOGUE, POST FREE ON APPLICATION. S. FIEENCH I; F ON, 39 East 14th Street, TTnion Scquare, NIew York.'~-~ ~ ~~~-~-~^~~^~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~' i iX)I A-T7DB I_ _ ____ S PUBLIS ED FRENCH'S STANDARD 10ENM1J1 Lancers Lady Clanc.rty' Alatoona Iucille j Never Too Late to ienrld Enoch Artden Randall's 1Ti'i-L j TLily of France' IWeak Womnan W'icked Tw orld a Led Astray How She i,oves Hi. Two Orphans, -Henry V., iew vers ion Oir Society Colleen Bawvu I -Un equal Match I,Mother in Law'Twixt Axe and Crown i May, or Dolly's Delusion Snowed In I NTET -VV" B LA 1 PUiLISHE[ I.N FRE CH'S H INOR DORAM. Womdnderful WNomtan i ATs Like as'wo Peas lerible TSoiKer nCurious Ca:s ( our t Cards MI Uncla's'Will Forty Win-Aks Happy Land'. JrE W ]"DLTVV~ I-L I" PUBLIISHED N FRENCH'S LOND0N EDITI04t. 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