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diff --git a/5806-h/5806-h.htm b/5806-h/5806-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dd2af32 --- /dev/null +++ b/5806-h/5806-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,6151 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Pot Boiler, by Upton Sinclair + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Pot Boiler, by Upton Sinclair + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Pot Boiler + +Author: Upton Sinclair + + +Release Date: June, 2004 [EBook #5806] +This file was first posted on September 4, 2002 +Last updated: April 28, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE POT BOILER *** + + + +Text file produced by Charles Aldarondo and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE POT BOILER + </h1> + <h3> + A COMEDY IN FOUR ACTS + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Upton Sinclair + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h4> + Edited by E. Haldeman Julius + </h4> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +CHARACTERS IN THE "REAL-PLAY" + + Will ............................. The author + Peggy ................Joint author and critic + Bill ..................... Their son (aged 8) + Dad ............................ Will's father + Schmidt......................... The grocer + The Policeman. + The Landlady. + + CHARACTERS IN THE "PLAY-PLAY" + + Jack ........................ The adventurer + Bob ............................. His cousin + Dad .............................. His father + Jessie.............................. His sister + Gladys .......................... His fiancee + Belle ............................. A waitress + Dolly ............................. Her sister + Bill .........................A street gamin + Schmidt ................ A restaurant keeper + The Policeman. + The Landlady. + A snow shoveller. + A butler. +</pre> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + Note: The characters of Dad, Bill, Schmidt, the Landlady and the + Policeman are the same in the Real and the Play-play. The character of + Jack is played by Will, and that of Belle by Peggy. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <b>THE POT BOILER</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> ACT I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> ACT II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> ACT III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> ACT IV. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0006"> POSTSCRIPT </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE POT BOILER + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT I. + </h2> + <p> + SCENE.—<i>A transparent curtain of net extends across the stage from + right to left, about six feet back of the foot-lights. Throughout the + text, what goes on in front of this curtain is referred to as the + Real-play; what goes on behind the curtain is the Play-play. Upon the + sides of the curtain, Right and Left, is painted a representation of an + attic room in a tenement house. The curtain becomes thin, practically + nothing at center, so the audience sees the main action of the Play-play + clearly. At Right in the Real-play is a window opening on a fire-escape, + and in front of the window a cot where the child sleeps. At Left in the + Real-play is a window, an entrance door, a flat-topped desk and two + chairs. This setting of the Real-play remains unchanged throughout the + four acts.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>The scenes of the Play-play change with each act. For Act I the set is + a drawing-room in a wealthy old New York home, entrances Right-center and + Left. Both front and rear scenes are lighted by many small lights, which + can be turned off a few at a time, so that one scene or the other fades + slowly. When the Real-play is in full light, the Play-play is dark and + invisible. When the front scene is entirely dark, we see the Play-play, + slightly veiled at the sides. In case of some rude interruption, the dream + is gone in a flash, and the reality of the garret surrounds us. The text + calls for numerous quick changes of three of the characters from the + Real-play to the Play-play and back. Dialogue and business have been + provided at these places to permit the changes.</i> + </p> + <p> + AT RISE.—<i>The Real-play, showing</i> PEGGY <i>putting</i> BILL <i>to + bed; she is young and pretty, he is a bright but frail child.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Peggy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Well, Bill? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Can you guess. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> How many guesses? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Three. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> All right. I guess my little son doesn't want to go to bed! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say! You guessed it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, mother's great at guessing! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> But honest, it's still light. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I know—but that's because it's summertime. Don't you + remember the little song? (sings) + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + In winter I get up at night + And dress by yellow candle-light; + In summer, quite the other way, + I have to go to bed by day! +</pre> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Peggy—when's Will coming in? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I don't know, dear. Your father's working. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Ain't he goin' to have any dinner? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I don't know—he didn't tell me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Is he writin'? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes—or else thinking about things to write. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say! He's great on writin', ain't he? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You bet! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Do you think it's good stuff? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Indeed I do, Bill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> You don't often tell him so. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Don't I? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> No—generally you rip him up the back. + </p> + <p> + PEGGY (laughs). Well, mother has to keep him trying, you know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Peggy, do you suppose I'll be an author when I grow up? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Can't tell, dear—it depends. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Maybe I'll have to get some payin' job, hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Where did you pick up that idea? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Ain't you talkin' about it all the time to him? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Am I? Well, I declare! Now, come, Mr. Bill—it's after + bed-time. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Can't I wait till Will comes? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> No, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Well, will you tell him to wake me up? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> No, dear. I'll tell him <i>not</i> to. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> But Peggy, will you have him kiss me in my sleep? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes, I'll do that. Now, there you are. A big fat kiss for + mother! Now, to sleep! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Peggy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> The people next door ain't runnin' the gramophone tonight! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> No, dear. Now go to sleep. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> And the people in hack ain't singin' any coon-songs! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Now go to sleep for mother. Don't speak any more. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Peggy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I won't. Good night. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Good-night! + </p> + <p> + (She goes Left humming to herself; sits at table, and prepares to work.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (Enters Left softly; a young poet, delicate and sensitive. He + watches</i> PEGGY, <i>then closes door, tiptoes up and leans over her + shoulder).</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (starts).</i> Oh, Will, how you frightened me! Where in the world + have you been? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh, it's a long tale. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Have you had dinner? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> No, I don't want to eat. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What's the matter? A new idea? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I'll tell you, Peggy. Wait a bit. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (as he takes mail from pocket).</i> Some mail? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes—all rejection slips. Nothing but rejection slips! + <i>(throws pile of returned manuscripts on the table).</i> How I wish some + magazine would get a new kind of rejection slip! <i>(Sits dejectedly.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Did you get any money for the rent? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Not yet, Peggy <i>(suddenly).</i> The truth is, I didn't try. + Peggy, I've got to write that play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (Horrified).</i> Will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I tell you I've got to! That's what I've been doing—sitting + in Union Square, working it over—ever since lunch time! It's a + perfectly stunning idea. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, Will, I know all that—but how can you write plays + when we must have money? Money right away! Money to pay the landlady! + Money to pay the grocer! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But Peggy— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will, you've got to do something that will sell right off + the bat—payment on acceptance! Short stories! Sketches! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (wildly).</i> But don't you see that so long as I do short stories + and sketches I'm a slave? I earn just enough to keep us going week by + week. Pot-boiling—pot-boiling—year after year! And youth is + going—life is going! Peggy, I've got to make a bold stroke, do + something big and get out of this! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But Will, it's madness! A play's the hardest thing of all to + sell. There's not one chance in a thousand—a hundred thousand! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But Peggy— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Listen to me. You go off in the park and dream of plays—but + I have to stay at home and face the landlady and the grocer. I tell you I + can't stand it! Honest to God, I'll have to go back to the stage and keep + this family going. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in distress).</i> Peggy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I know! But I'm at the end of my rope. The landlady was here—the + grocer has shut down on us. We can't get any more bread, any more meat—all + our credit's gone! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Gee! It's tough! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I've held out eight years, and we never dreamed it would + last that long. You said one year—three years—then surely Dad + would relent and take us back, or give us some money. But Dad doesn't + relent—Dad's going to die and leave his money to a Home for Cats! I + tell you, dear, I've got to go back to the stage and earn a living. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (radiantly).</i> You might play the heroine of my play. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes—a star the first night! Isn't that like a husband + and a poet! I assure you, Will, it'll be an agency for me, and a part with + three lines, at thirty a week— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (sits staring before him, with repressed intensity).</i> Listen! + I've tried—honest, I've tried, but I can't get away from that play. + You know how often I've said that I wanted to find a story like our own—so + that I could use our local color, pour our emotions into it, our laughter + and our tears. And, Peggy, this is the story! Our <i>own</i> story! It has + pathos and charm—it will hold the crowd— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Dear Will, <i>what</i> do you know about the crowd? Pathos + and charm! Do you suppose the mob that comes swarming into Broadway at + eight o'clock every evening is on the hunt for pathos and charm? They want + to see women with the latest Paris fashions on them—or with nothing + on them at all! They want to see men in evening dress, drinking + high-balls, lighting expensive cigars, departing from palatial homes to + the chugging sound of automobiles. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. But Peggy, this play will have two dress-suit acts. I can + show the world I used to live in—I can use Dad's own house for a + scene. And I can finish it in four days! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Yes—if you sit up all night and work! Don't you know + that when you work all night your stomach stops working all day? Haven't + you sworn to me on the Bible you'd never work at night again? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (seizes her in his arms)</i>. Peggy! I've got to do this play! + I've started it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. What? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. What do you think I've been doing all afternoon? <i>(Pulls + out a huge wad of loose papers from rear pocket.)</i> Look at that! <i>(Drags + her to the table.</i>) Now sit down here and listen—I'll tell you + about it. I'm going to tell my own story—a rich young fellow who has + a quarrel with his father and goes out into the world to make his own way. + I'm going to call him Jack, but he's really myself. Imagine me as I was at + twenty-one-when I was happy, care-free, full of fun. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, Will, I can't imagine you! I can't bring myself to + believe that you were ever rich and free! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But I was, Peggy! And this will bring it all back to you. + When you read this manuscript you'll see me when I didn't know what + trouble meant-I'd never had to make an effort in my life, I couldn't + imagine what it would be to fail. Oh, what a wonderful time it was, Peggy! + It's been wonderful just to recall it here. I've pictured my twenty-first + birthday—I had a dinner party in the big drawing-room of Dad's home! + (<i>As Will goes on the Real-play fades, and the Play-play comes slowly + into sight.</i>) There's Jessie, my sister, and there's my cousin, Bob. + He's a college professor who went out into the world as a hobo in order to + see life for himself. You see it's all my story—my <i>own</i> story! + Only my name's to be Jack, you know! Here's the manuscript! Read it! + </p> + <p> + (<i>Full light on the Play-play. The Real-play figures are in darkness, + visible only in silhouette. Will exchanges places with a substitute + concealed on upstage side of the desk, and then slips below the level of + the desk and exit Left, to make quick change for entrance into Play-play + in the role of Jack.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But Bob— + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Well, Jessie? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> You're so hard on people, Bob! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Not at all! It's life that's hard, and you don't know it. + Neither does Jack! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Why do you want him to know it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I want him to do his share to change it—instead of + idling his life away. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> He's going to college, isn't he? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob (laughs).</i> A lot of good that's doing! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Don't you believe in going to college? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Not the way Jack's doing it. It's all play to him, and I want + him to work. Just as I was trying to tell him a while ago— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> You're always nagging at him, Bob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I want to teach him something. Something about the reality of + life. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (enters Play-play left in evening dress).</i> Good heavens! You + two still arguing? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Yes, Jack—still arguing! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Can't you cut it out for one evening? I'm not in your class + in college. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> If you were, Jack, you'd learn something real about the world + you live in. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Oh, cut it out, Bob! You give me a pain! Just because you + once put on hobo clothes and went out and knocked about with bums for a + year, you think you've a call to go around making yourself a bore to every + one you know! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Well, Jack, some things I saw made an impression on me and I + can't forget them. When I hear my glib young cousin who sits and surveys + life from the shelter of his father's income—when I hear him making + utterly silly assertions—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (angrily).</i> What, for example? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> The one you were making today—that if a man fails, it + must be his own fault. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I say there's a place in life for every man that's good for + anything. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I say that with things as they are at present, most men fail + of necessity. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> They'd succeed if they only had nerve to try. There's plenty + of good jobs lying idle. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Oh, Jack, what rot! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> By thunder, I'd like to show you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> We'd like to do all sorts of bold things—if only it + weren't too much trouble. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What should I do to prove it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> You couldn't prove it, Jack—it isn't true. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Suppose I wanted to <i>try</i> to prove it? What should I do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> You're wasting my time, boy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (to Jessie).</i> You see! He won't even answer me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Answer him, Bob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Just what do you want to prove, Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> That a man can get a job if he really wants it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Well, suppose you get a job! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> That's too easy! Jack has a dozen jobs waiting for him when + he gets through college. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I don't mean for him to go on his father's name. Here—I'll + propose a test for you. Upstairs in my trunk is an old suit that I wore + when I went out and lived as a hobo. Put it on. Put on the torn overcoat + and the ragged hat. I was going to say empty your pockets—but you + needn't do that—there's nothing in the pockets. Go out of here + tonight, and make this bargain—that for six months you won't tell a + soul who you are, that you won't communicate with one of your friends, nor + use any of their influence. For six months you'll shift for yourself and + take what comes to you. And then you can come back, and we'll see how far + you've risen in the world. Also we'll see whether you haven't changed some + of your ideas! <i>(A pause.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (in a low voice).</i>—That would satisfy you, would it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Yes, that would satisfy me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> All right! By thunder—I'll go you! <i>(Starts away.)</i> + To-night! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (horrified).</i> Jack! You're out of your senses. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'm not. I mean it. I'm tired of his jawing at me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (rushes to him).</i> I won't hear of it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'm going to show him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (turns to Bob).</i> I won't have my brother leave me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Don't worry, Jessie. Your brother won't really go! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, I will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (wildly).</i> But Jack! It's time for your birthday-dinner! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> We'll save the dinner and eat it cold. He'll be back in a day + or two. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You may spare your taunts, Bob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (catching him by the arm).</i>—I'll send for Dad! You + shan't go! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (aside to Jessie).</i> Listen, Jessie. There's another reason. + I've <i>got</i> to go. I've got into another row at college. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Jack! What have you done? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Oh, it's a long story—the point is, Dad has heard of it + to-day, and he'll be wild. He said the last time that if I got into any + more trouble, he'd turn me out. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But, Jack! He won't really do it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, he meant it! And I don't want to give him a chance to + order me out—I want to go before he gets here——<i>(He + starts off Left.)</i> I'll go and put on those hobo clothes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Jack! I beg you——<i>(Jack exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (turns upon Bob).</i> Bob, I think it's wicked of you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Why, Jessie? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> To nag at Jack all the time! You've driven him crazy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Never mind—he'll soon get sane. You never knew him to + stick at anything very long. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Oh! Oh! I think you're horrid! And right before our party—what + will we tell the guests? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Tell them the truth; they'll think it's romantic—like a + story in a play. Why, Jessie—— + </p> + <p> + <i>(During this dialogue Jack has slipped back into the coat of Will and + sits at the desk, Left</i> 1. <i>The sound of a sharp whistle heard in the + Real-play, Left</i> 1. <i>Instantly the Play-play vanishes. Full light on + the Real-play.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (looking up in bewilderment and disgust).</i> My God! What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Something at the dumb-waiter, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh, Lord! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (rises).</i> Wait, dear. <i>(Hurries out of door Left, calls at + shaft.)</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Voice below.</i> Garbage! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (tears hair).</i> Garbage. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (cheerfully).</i> All right! <i>(Returns and gets can, exit + Left.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Garbage! Garbage! Garbage! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> A little higher, please—there, that'll do! All right! + <i>(Enters.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Can you explain to me one mystery of this universe? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What, dear? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Why does the garbage-man always call when I'm inspired? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Dear Will—probably the garbage-man is wondering why + you are always inspired when he calls. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (moans).</i> Well, shall I go on? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You must wait, dear. He'll be returning the can in a few + minutes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> A few minutes! Oh, the agonies of being an author! <i>(Eagerly.)</i> + Well, what do you think of my play? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why, Will, I'm sorry to disappoint you. It's very + interesting—but it isn't a practical play. It would never go on + Broadway. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in dismay).</i> Not go on Broadway! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> No, dear. It's too talky—too much sociology. You can't + get a Broadway audience to listen to long arguments. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Isn't it what they all need? Those wage-slaves up in the + galleries—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I know, dear—but they've no idea they are wage-slaves, + and they won't pay their money to hear you call them names. And down in + the three-dollar seats are people who've made their pile, and don't want + any questions asked about the way they made it. Cut out the sociology, + Will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But can't one discuss modern problems in a modern play? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes, dear, but you've got to go at it differently. You've + got to get what the crowd calls the <i>punch.</i> Look at their faces, + Will—see how tired they are! You've got to find something that comes + home to them! Not arguments, not abstractions—but a clash of human + wills! Something fundamental, that every man in the crowd can understand! + Your idea's a good one, I think—having a rich boy go out to try his + luck in the under-world. There's a chance in it for adventure, for fun, + for suspense. You ought to know about that, since you did it yourself. But + you've got to start him off differently——(<i>The whistle + blows.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Oh, hell! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Wait, dear. (<i>Exit Left, calls down shaft.</i>) Lower, + please. No—I said <i>lower</i>. There—not too low! (<i>Enters + with can.</i>) All right! Now, our troubles are over. Listen, dear. If you + really want to write, you've got to think about your audience, and what + they like. Just see, to begin with, you've left out the most important + thing in any play—whether it's a high-brow tragedy or Third Avenue + melodrama. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. The love interest. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. That's to come in the second act. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Why the <i>second</i> act? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. That's where Jack meets the heroine. I can't have two + love-stories! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. My dear boy, you can have a dozen, if you've wit enough to + get them in. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. With only one hero? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Good Lord, Will! Didn't you ever love any woman but me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (disconcerted)</i>. But, Peggy—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Didn't you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Why—you know—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Of course I know! You were engaged to an heiress when you + ran away and married an actress. Why don't you put the heiress into this + play? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Gladys? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Gladys was her name, I believe. How did she act when you + told her that you loved me best? A cold, proud beauty, ready to die before + she'd let you know she cared! And isn't that exactly what your audience is + looking for? Exactly their idea of a princess of plutocracy! And still you + waste your time with a sister! Who the deuce cares anything about a + sister? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Look here, Peggy. You'd better write this play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. I've been thinking about it, ever since you first told me + the idea. Draw up your chair, and let me show you what I mean. (<i>The + Play-play begins to appear</i>.) There's Bob and Jessie, the same as + before; but also there's Gladys. I want a quite different atmosphere from + what you had. It's afternoon, and Gladys is serving tea, and she handles + the situation in tea-party fashion. Give me some paper and let me sketch + the dialogue. (<i>She begins to write rapidly. Full light on the + Play-play. Will makes secret exit</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. I'm waiting with a good deal of interest. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob</i>. For what? + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. I'm wondering how long it will be before it occurs to Jack + to ask what <i>I</i> think of this plan of his. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie</i>. I hope you'll make him give it up, Gladys! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Your suggestion is out of date, dear. The modern young man + doesn't give up his ideas at the request of his fiancee. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie</i>. Tell him what you think, at least! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. You don't take sugar, Bob? Don't you see that he hasn't + been interested in what I think? He has acquired some new interests. He's + going to learn about the <i>reality</i> of life! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (enters, in afternoon coat)</i>. Gladys, that's not fair! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Will you have tea, Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. You know I'm up against it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. One lump or two, Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I got into a scrape at college— + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Too strong for you, Jack? No, don't make these pretences + with me. You can get rid of me without going hoboing. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie</i>. How can you talk so? + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Such an ingenious compliment! In order to avoid having to + see or hear from his fiancee for six months, he is willing to go and stay + among the dirtiest and most disgusting people! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. You are angry with me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob</i>. You ought to realize, Gladys—this will be the making of + Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Suppose it will be the making of something I don't want? + Suppose I'd prefer him as he is? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob</i>. You don't care for him to know about life? + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. I don't care for him to know about low life. I don't see at + all why he can't be content with the life of ladies and gentlemen. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I thought you'd be proud to have me interested in deeper + things. + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Jack, you are young and care-free. It made me happy just to + see you—you were the very spirit of youth! But now you will grow + serious, you will be pale, and have a frown upon your forehead. You will + be eternally preaching, like Bob, here—and you will bore me to + death! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. You are making fun of me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. I am perfectly serious, I assure you. My romance is dead! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. You don't mean— + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. I mean Jack, that I have lost you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (tries to catch her hand)</i>. You shan't say such a thing! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Jack, such violent motions are dangerous at tea-parties. + You might ruin my costume! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. If you feel like that, I won't go at all! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob</i>. Oho! Already! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Go on with your adventure, Jack. And don't try to make a + tragedy out of our parting—you know how I hate scenes. It would be + impossible for me to love a serious man—the mere thought of it + terrifies me! Go on! Go on—I absolutely insist! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (desperately)</i>. All right then! If that's the way you take it, + I'll go! (<i>rushes off Left.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie</i>. Gladys, I think it's horrid of you to behave like that! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Not at all, Jessie! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie</i>. Do you seriously intend to send him away? + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. <i>Send</i> him, Jessie? How do you mean? You can't send + these modern young men anywheres. They come and go to suit themselves. + They think they love a woman, and they plead for her love; but then they + begin to change their minds—they get bored with her, and think + they're bored with all life. So they go off and try something new and + romantic—something less tedious than a woman's affections. The + reality of life! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie</i>. I know Jack loves you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys</i>. Indeed, Jessie? Too bad that Jack doesn't know it—(<i>sound + of gramophone in Real-play Left 1, playing a popular song. The Play-play + fades rapidly</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Oh, God! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Botheration! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. The fiends! (<i>leaps up and begins to pace the floor</i>.) + Isn't that enough to drive a man to distraction? To be trying to work, + trying to create something— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Wait, dear. (<i>Goes and closes door.</i>) Now forget about + it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes, it's easy to say forget! But pretty soon the devils in + the rear will begin with their coon-songs— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Well then, we'll close the window, too. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes, on a hot night! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What do you think of my love-interest? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I think it's rotten. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Absolutely rotten! The idea of having her turn Jack down—at + the very beginning of the play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But that's exactly what happened! Didn't Gladys turn <i>you</i> + down? And besides, she can take him up again, if you like. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> How's she going to see him when he goes out on the street? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Can't she run into him somewhere by accident? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> By accident—in a city of six million people! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Well then, why not have her go where he goes? Let Bob follow + Jack, or let them hire a detective. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Melodrama! Ten-twenty-thirty! I don't like Gladys as a + character any more than I did as a person. She's shallow and cheap—a + regular worldling! I won't have any such creature in my play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> There's no use talking that way, Will, you simply can't + write a money-making play without love-interest. And also you've got to + have comedy characters—real characters— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (eagerly).</i> I'll have one character, at least! In the next + scene, when the father comes in! It'll be a jolly lark, Peggy—I'm + going to use Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Your own father! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes, why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> He might hear of it, Will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> He despises the theatre. Half his anger at me was because I + married an actress. And it seems to me, if we can't get any money out of + him, we might at least get a character-study. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> All right, Dad let it be! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I'll show you how it is. Here! (<i>Pushes the manuscripts + towards her; the Play-play begins to appear.</i>) Jack has gone upstairs + to change his clothes, and here comes Dad. He's an old man—rich, + irascible, given to scolding. I remember how he used to snort when + anything didn't please him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Huh! huh-huh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> He's heard the story about Jack. Here's the Mss. Read. (<i>She + takes the manuscript and begins to read. Full light on Play-play. Will + exit secretly.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (to Bob).</i> What do you think of this? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> What? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> My precious son in trouble again! Never any end to it! + Recklessness—dissipation—insolence! I've reached the end of my + patience. Absolutely the end! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> What's happened? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (waves letter in his hand).</i> Here's a letter from the dean. He's + got himself suspended from college. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (horrified).</i> Oh, Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> What's he done? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Turning loose a live goat in a college lecture hall! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> You can't mean it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Here's the letter! They were having a fraternity initiation, + it seems, and Jack was bringing the goat, his horns painted with + phosphorus, a bunch of fire-crackers tied to his tail. Fire-crackers to + the tail of a goat! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But Dad! How do you know that Jack— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> He admitted everything in his letter to the dean! He was + passing a hall where they were giving an evening lecture. He had a grudge + against the professor. He turned out the lights, and turned loose the + goat! What do you think of that? <i>(A silence.)</i> What do you <i>think</i> + of it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Why Dad, I think it's funny. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Funny! You propose to take his side, do you? And now he's out + of college and has nothing to do but loaf around the house! I tell you + I've reached the limit of my patience. It's just as Bob says—he's a + parasite. Nothing to do but squander my money—fit for nothing else, + having no other idea! I tell you I won't support the loafer! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> You've brought the boy up wrong. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> So you propose to blame <i>me!</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (appears in doorway Left clad in ragged anil dirty overcoat).</i> + Of course, Dad. It really isn't fair to scold other people for your own + blunder. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Oh, there you are! <i>(Notices Jack's clothes.)</i> What the + devil is this? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What, Dad? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Drunk again, sir? Rolling in the gutter? And on your birthday + too! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Dad— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Look at him! A hundred and eighty dollars I pay to a Broadway + tailor to make this young hopeful an overcoat, and look at what he does + with it! I prepare a birthday party, and invite all his friends, and see + the condition in which he comes to welcome them! Do you wonder my patience + is exhausted? Do you wonder— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Dad, you don't understand! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> No, I don't understand! How could I be expected to understand? + How can an old man hope to keep up with a youth so brilliant—a youth + who goes to college and ties firecrackers to the tails of goats! A youth + who comes on his birthday looking like a tramp— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Listen, Dad—this is a joke— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Everything's a joke to my son! But I tell you I'm tired of his + jokes. I mean to make him understand that his days of tomfoolery are over! + Do you realize it—here he is, twenty-one years of age, when he + should be coming into possession of the fortune his mother left him—and + he's tying fire-crackers to the tails of goats! And I—I am trustee + of the money, and have to decide whether he's fit to have it or not! I + know that if I give it to him I ruin him for life—I start him on a + career of drunkenness and idleness! Look at him as he stands there—and + imagine him the owner of a quarter of a million dollars! And under his + mother's will the only choice I have is to give it to him, or turn it over + to a Home for Cats! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Please, Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Can I honestly say that one is more foolish than the other? + Wouldn't I be helping him if I gave the money to the cats, and let my son + go out and earn his living as best he can? Let him go down to my office + and earn his twelve dollars a week, the same as any other young jackass— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (stepping forward).</i> Dad, don't you really think it's time you + let me get a word in? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I'm tired of your words, young man. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You won't be troubled with them any more. I'm going to take + myself out of your way. I don't want your quarter of a million dollars, + and I don't want your twelve a week. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Indeed, sir! And what may this mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> It means that I'm going out into the world as a hobo. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad. What?</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> That's it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Clever! Upon my word, a clever scheme! <i>(To the others.)</i> + Look at him! The nerve of him! He knows he's misbehaved, and that I'll be + angry—so he goes and puts on a masquerade costume, and tries to + frighten me with a threat of turning hobo! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Dad, it isn't that! He means to go! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I don't doubt that he means to go! But how long do you think + he means to stay? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Six months, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (scornfully).</i> Six months! It won't be six days before I'll he + getting bills to pay for you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You'll get no bills from me, Dad. I'm not going to use your + name. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> How long will it he before I hear you've been borrowing money + from your friends? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> You must listen, Dad. Jack and I are making a wager. He's to + go out in my hobo clothes and he's not to use his own name—he's not + to see any of his old friends, nor to communicate with them. He's to + depend absolutely on his own efforts—to shift for himself for six + months. That's the bargain. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> And do you imagine he'll keep it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I believe he'll try. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (gazes from one to the other; then with sudden vehemence).</i> Very + well! You can let me in on that bargain! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> How do you mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Make your wager with me—I'll give you a stake to play + for! A stake that will make the game worth while! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What stake, Dad? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> A quarter of a million dollars! Your mother's property. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I mean what I say! As God is my witness, I'll stand by what I + say! You go out of here to-night with your hobo clothes and you shift for + yourself for six months. If I find out that you've told a soul whose son + you are, or that you've used my name or your own name to get a cent of + money or a job, or even so much as a ham sandwich; or if you come home + before the six months is up, or write to one of us, or to any one else for + help—as sure as I live, it will cost you a quarter of a million + dollars. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Dad, that is wicked. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> It will cost him a quarter of a million dollars! I'll take the + money the same day and turn it over to the Home for Cats! Do you get that, + young man? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, I get it, and it's a bargain! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Very well, sir. Now good luck to you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Good-bye, Bob. Good-bye, Jessie. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (rushing to him).</i> Jack, I can't let you go! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Don't touch me, Jessie. You'll ruin your dress. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Let her kiss you, Jack. She'll be the last girl that offers + for some time. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (to Jessie).</i> Be sensible, dear. I won't let any harm come to + me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Get one of the fast freights, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No freights in mine—New York will do. There's some + money still lying around in this old town, I've an idea. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (sarcastically).</i> He'll be king of the shoe-string peddlers—the + walking delegate of the Hobos' Union! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You may laugh, Dad, but I know I'm not such a fool as I seem. + Maybe it'll take me more than six months, but I think I can convince you + in the end that I can make my way. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Maybe you'll not want the quarter of a million at all! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Oh, an extra quarter of a million would always come in handy. + But we'll settle that when I return, Dad. For the present, I've got the + world to conquer. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Bow down, world! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What I say is: Come on, world! <i>(with a gesture of + defiance)</i> I'm ready for you! I'll show you what I can do. Good-bye! <i>(exit + suddenly Left)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Jack! Jack! Oh, how perfectly terrible! This cold night, + and no money! What will he do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> There's many another man out there with no money. What do <i>they</i> + do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Bob, I <i>hate</i> you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> It'll be the very thing for the young scapegrace—if + he'll stick to it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But how will he live, Dad? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Live? Wasn't I a poor boy when I came to the city? And didn't + I manage to make a fortune? Let him do what I did! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But you were used to hardships, Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Used to it? Of course I was—and why shouldn't <i>he</i> + be? Why is he too good to work like other men? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (pleading)</i> Oh, Dad—<i>(Sudden loud sounds in + Real-play, Right; piano and voices shouting chorus of the latest rag-time. + Play-play fades instantly.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Hell and damnation! There go the devils with their + coon-songs! <i>(leaps up with distracted gestures)</i> Oh! Oh! Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (laughing, runs to window—and tries to close it; sounds + continue).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> The monsters! The fiends! The satellites of Satan! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy. (laughing).</i> The window's stuck! Come put it down, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> The window's always stuck when that mad-house opens up! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (waking).</i> Ah—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> It's Bill waking <i>(runs to him).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (sitting up).</i> Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> They woke you up, dear! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I'm glad of it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Hello! Bill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Oh, hello! You got back, did you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Will, listen to the music! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I hear it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (delightedly).</i> Gee! That's great, ain't it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You like it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> You bet I like it! Say, I know that tune! The beggar-kid + sings it every time he comes. <i>(Sits up in bed and keeps time with his + finger. Chorus begins and he joins in at the top of his voice.)</i> + </p> + <h3> + CURTAIN + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT II. + </h2> + <p> + <i>Scene: The attic, afternoon of the next day. The set of the Playplay is + a cheap Third Avenue restaurant. Entrance from the street Center, also + window with cashier's desk beside it. Tables up stage, from Right to Left. + Entrance to kitchen Left. Clock on wall shows 11:30.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>At rise: The Real-play, with Bill Right on the fire-escape, sitting on + mattress taken from his cot. Will Left with Mss. at desk. Peggy talking to + Bill. She wears a "bungalow-apron," covering a waitress's costume for + quick change.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. That's a dandy big fire-escape to play on! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. You bet! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. You've got all your blocks? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. Yes, Peggy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. And your picture-books? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. Yes, Peggy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. And you won't lean over the railing? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. I won't. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i> (<i>to Will</i>). Now to the Pot-boiler! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. It's a shame to keep the child out there on the fire-escape. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. He'll be all right, dear. It's the coolest place there is. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. If only we could get him to the park— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. I know, but we can't. (<i>Sits at table.</i>) Now—you've + got the second act already? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Yes. Read it, and I'll get the dishes washed for you. (<i>Exit + left</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i> (<i>reads manuscript</i>). What's this? You've got a + drop-curtain? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i> (<i>off; rattling dishes</i>). Yes; I want to show Jack's + adventures. Read the directions. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i> (<i>reads</i>). Jack has been hunting a job, and has been + unable to find one. The drop-curtain shows a street-scene. (<i>The + Play-play begins to loom, as described.</i>) A row of houses, just off + Fifth Avenue, having the front door on the street level in the modern + fashion. It is evening, and the ground is covered with snow. The + snow-shoveller is at work Right. His feet and hands are tied with rags and + his face is red with cold. (<i>The Play-play in full light.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i> (<i>enters Left in hobo-overcoat, shuffling, and dejected</i>). + I beg your pardon— + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i>. Hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I beg your pardon— + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i>. What the devil ye beggin' me pardon for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I—I want to know—is that your shovel? + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i>. Whose d'ye think it is? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I mean—where did you get it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i> (<i>bridling</i>). You mean I stole it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. No—no! I mean, I'd like to get one. (<i>The other pays + no heed.</i>) You see, I'm up against it, and I thought perhaps I could + earn money shovelling snow. I'd like to get a shovel. (<i>The other still + pays no heed.</i>) You wouldn't like to rent it for a while, would you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i> (<i>with mock merriment</i>). And me live on me income, + hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I might help you, perhaps— + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i>. Say, young fellow, if you really want to help me, get a + hot water bottle an' hold it to me feet! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (stands nonplussed, then turns away Left; as he is about to exit + he changes his mind, and rings the bell at the door of a house Left. + Butler comes</i>) I beg pardon— + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. Well, what d'ya want? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Could I shovel the snow off your sidewalk? + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i> (<i>fiercely</i>). What d'ye mean by comin' to the front + door? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Oh, I forgot. + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. Gow an with ye! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Won't you give me a chance? + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. Where's your shovel? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Why—I haven't a shovel. + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. Well, what d'ya mean to use? Your hands? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I thought you might lend me— + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. Lend you! And me standin' out in the snow to watch ye + return it, hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i> (<i>humbly</i>). I won't steal anything. I'm trying honestly + to earn the price of a shovel. + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. If ye didn't spend your money in drink, ye might have the + price. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I haven't had anything to drink—nor anything to eat + either. + </p> + <p> + <i>Butler</i>. Well, we ain't runnin' no breadline 'ere. Get along with + ye! <i>(Slams door.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (stands shaking his head meditatively)</i> Gee! This is a cold + world! + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i>. Say, young fellow! I'll tell ye what to do. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Shoveller</i>. Come back in August. Ye'll find it warmer. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (wanders off muttering to himself).</i> I've got to get a shovel! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (appears at window Right)</i>. Say, Peggy! <i>(The Play-play + vanishes.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. What is it, dear? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. Can I have my paper soldiers? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Yes, dear. <i>(Hurries to get them.)</i> Now be quiet, Bill. + I'm busy now. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. Where is Will? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Washing the dishes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. Can't I help him? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. No, dear—we've got to talk about this play we're + writing. Here are the soldiers. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i>. All right. <i>(Exit Right.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (goes to entrance Left where dishes are heard rattling)</i>. How + are you making out? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (off Left)</i>. What do you think of my opening scenes? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Why, I think they could be better. You see, Will, you don't + really know anything about snow-shovellers or butlers. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i> (<i>appears in doorway Left, wiping a dish</i>). I've got a + real character for the next scene at least. I used Bill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. For heaven's sake! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. As a street-gamin. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. But Bill's not like a street-gamin. Such a child is full of + slang. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. I thought of what Bill might have been if he'd been turned + out to shift for himself. I imagined the soul of a street-gamin in the + body of our Bill. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. That sounds rather terrible. (<i>A pause</i>.) By the way, + Will! That love-interest you said was to come! Where is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. I've hardly got into the act yet. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Well, you'd better get into your love-interest! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. The next scene is to be another dropcurtain. A restaurant. + I'm using that one down our street. Read it. (<i>He disappears Left. The + Play-play begins to appear</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i> (<i>reads</i>). Scene shows a cheap restaurant on Third + Avenue. Piles of shredded wheat and charlotte russe in the windows. Night + scene, snow on ground. (<i>Full light on the Play-play</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i> (<i>wanders on Right, stops and gazes into window</i>). Gee, + but that's great lookin' shredded wheat! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i> (<i>enters Left, dejected-looking, and joins Bill</i>). You + hungry, too, kid? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I could eat the whole hay-stack at one meal. (<i>Moves along + to another part of the window.</i>) Holy smoke, if they'd turn me loose in + them charlotte-russes! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I wonder how many charlotte russes a man could eat at one + meal. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, I wisht I was a rich man! I'd go youse a race at 'em! (<i>A + silence; turns away.</i>) Gee, I can't bear to look at 'em any more! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i> (<i>joins him down stage</i>). When did you eat last? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I had sinkers and coffee this mornin'. What did youse have? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I had a glass of water in the public library. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Hully gee! And when did youse eat last? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yesterday morning I had a slice of bread. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i> (<i>startled</i>). Gawd a'mighty! That all? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> True as gospel. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill</i> (<i>warming to him</i>). Why say! Youse <i>are</i> up agin it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I am, for fair. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Can't find any work. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Work? T'hell with work! Why don't yous slam the gates? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why don't I <i>what?</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I mean, why don't youse panhandle it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I don't understand. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Gee! Where was youse raised—in the hayfields? I mean, + why don't youse git up a hard luck story? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Beg? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I tried it some, but nobody'll listen to me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Why, youse poor helpless orphan! Somebody ought to take youse + in hand and show youse. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (eagerly).</i> Do you suppose you could do it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure I could—teach youse in an hour or two! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (hesitatingly).</i> But you don't make so very much yourself, do + you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure I do—I got lots o' the stuff. Only I got a + step-father I have to keep full of booze. He'll be out lookin' for me now, + I reckon. <i>(Looks about sharply).</i> Say, youse come back here after a + bit. I'll go an' get him spotted, an' then we'll frame up a good hard-luck + story, an' we'll get the price of that there hay-stack. You get me, old + pal? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, I get you—only I'll freeze in the meantime. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse keep movin'. Hustle along now! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> All right. <i>(Goes off Left stamping his feet, blowing his + fingers.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse come back now! Don't fergit! <i>(Stands looking after + Jack.)</i> Gee! I like that guy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will! <i>(Faint light on the Real-play.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will. (Off.)</i> What is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You're sending him off! But where's the heart interest? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> It's coming right now! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What's it to be? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (appears Left with dishes in arms).</i> Why, dearest, there's only + one thing it could be! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What is that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You know I have only one heart-interest! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (looks at him, then rises and steps to him, with Mss. in her + hand).</i> You dear, sweet boy? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (steps back out of sight).</i> Look out for my dishes! <i>(as + Peggy follows off, sounds of kisses heard)</i> My heart-interest! My dear, + blessed heart-interest! My only heart-interest in the world! <i>(Full + light rises slowly on the Play-play. The door of restaurant opens, and + Peggy appears in the entrance, as Belle, with a waitress's costume. She + stands gazing out, as if getting breath of fresh air, being ill. Then she + draws back and closes the door.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (enters Left).</i> Gee, I never thought it would be as bad as + this! <i>(goes to window of restaurant)</i> I've got to get something to + eat—there's no use talking about it! I don't believe that kid is + coming back! I don't believe he could help me, anyway! <i>(wanders back + and forth again, goes to door, hesitates)</i> I want something to <i>eat!</i> + I don't care what happens, I can't stand it! <i>(enters door of + restaurant).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (pokes head in from fire-escape).</i> Say, Peggy! (<i>Play-play + fades.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (appears in doorway, Left, having Mss. in her hand).</i> Oh, + Bill! You startled me so! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I thought you, were out in the snow! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> In the SNOW. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why, you see— + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Snow in the middle of July? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why, you see, dear, Will is writing a play, and the play is + supposed to be in winter, and he's got you in the snow. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (in excitement). Me? Me</i> in Will's play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Oh, say! What's he doin' to me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I'll tell you all about it when he's finished. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say! I got to see that play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, surely! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (seriously).</i> Suppose I don't like what he's done to me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (to Will, who appears Left, wiping a dish).</i> Another critic, + Will! (<i>to Bill</i>) Now you must let us alone. Climb out, dear, and + don't disturb us again until we're done. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> All right. I'll hold my breath (<i>climbs out</i>). + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Well, what do you think of it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Let's go on; I want to see more. (<i>They sit at the desk.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> The next is the interior of the restaurant. You know just how + it looks—the one down our street. I've got to use two more + characters from real life. First, that big Irish policeman on our beat. I + must talk to him some more and make sure I've got his dialect right. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You never would have talked to him at all, if I hadn't put + you up to it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Then, there's the restaurant keeper. For him I took Schmidt, + our grocer. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You <i>have</i> to talk to Schmidt—because we can't + pay his bills! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I see him sitting at the cashier's desk, reading a paper. <i>(Interior + of restaurant, with Schmidt.)</i> It's nearly midnight, you see, and + there's only one customer. <i>(Full light on Play-play. Peggy and Will + make quick secret exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vell, dis is vun bad night for business! <i>(Customer + grunts, having mouth full.)</i> I tink ve have too much snow already dis + vinter! <i>(Customer grunts again.)</i> You have some dessert, sir? Vere + is dot vaitress hey? <i>(Calls.)</i> Hey, you! Belle! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (off Left).</i> Yes, sir! + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vy you don't stay in de room by de customers? Hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (enters, evidently weak and ill, supports herself by the chair).</i> + I—I was busy, sir. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vell, you stay busy by de customers! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (enters from street, hesitating).</i> I beg pardon— + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Can I get something to eat? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vy not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> It's late. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Ve close by midnight. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack. (hesitates again, looks at clock, then goes to table. Belle + brings napkin, etc., mechanically. He looks at card).</i> I'll have a + beef-stew. <i>(Hesitates.)</i> I think I'll have a double order. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Yes, sir. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> And a cup of coffee. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Yes, sir. <i>(Goes Left feebly. Customer rises, pays check + and exit. Belle brings order, and Jack begins to eat voraciously. Suddenly + Belle staggers and catches at a chair. He starts.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why, you're ill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (faintly).</i> No, sir! No! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> But you are! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (gazing in terror at Schmidt, who is reading).</i> Ssh! Mr. + Schmidt will hear you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (hesitates, then begins to eat again, but keeping an eye on Belle, + who makes desperate efforts to keep steady).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt (looks up from paper, gazes through window and rises).</i> Vat + for a night for business! <i>(Goes Left, yawning; exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (still eating rapidly).</i> You <i>have</i> to work? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. Of course! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Have you no friends—no people? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i> (<i>hesitates</i>). I'm not supposed to talk to customers. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. But I'm asking you questions. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i> (<i>gazing nervously Left</i>). Yes, but I mustn't talk. (<i>She + clutches chair</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i> (<i>springs up</i>). My God, you're done up. Sit down. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i> (<i>in terror</i>). No, no, no! He'll hear you! He'd not keep + me if he thought I was sick. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Damn his soul! Have you no one to take care of you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. I have a sister, sir. But she can't earn enough for two. + Please let me be. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Poor little girl! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. I'll be all right. It's near closing time. I'm tired—that's + all. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. What time do you come on? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. At ten o'clock, sir. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. What, in the morning? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. Yes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Fourteen hours! And you have to stand up? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. Of course. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. The whole time? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. Oh, no! I have time for two meals. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. And that's all? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i>. It's the same everywhere, sir. They don't like you to sit + down. It wouldn't look right. (<i>Seeing Schmidt entering Left</i>). Will + you have some dessert, sir? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. No, not yet. (<i>He finishes food, then turns to Schmidt, + hesitatingly</i>.) See here, my friend. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle</i> (<i>in terror</i>). No, no! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i> (<i>waving her aside</i>). I'm sorry, my friend, but I'm + afraid you'll have to have me arrested. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. Hey? Vot? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. You'll have to have me arrested. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. Vot you mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I mean—I've eaten a meal and I haven't any money to pay + for it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. No money! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. Not a cent. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. Aber—vy—how you dare? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I was starving. I have walked the streets for two days + begging for work, and I can't find any. I am wet, chilled to the bone, + exhausted. Look at me—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i> (<i>in excitement</i>). Vot I got to do mit your looks? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I had to have something to eat. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. But vy should <i>I</i> feed you? Vy you come by <i>me</i>? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack</i>. I'll work for you, if I may. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. Vork? I don't vant no vork! I got all the vork as I need. + I vant customers! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You'll have to have me arrested, then. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Arrested? Vot good will it do me if I have you arrested? + You tink I earn my living by having you arrested? Mein Gott in Himmel, vot—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> There's no use in getting excited, my friend. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Excited? I get excited if I <i>please</i> to get excited! + Vot you got for business to tell me if I get excited? I show you vot I + get! <i>(Rushes to door.)</i> Police! Police! <i>(Rushes back.)</i> If I + did not vant a police, he stand by my door and hold out his hand for + sandwiches! If you have to steal food, why you don't go by Schnitzelman on + der next block—he haf a big place, und I can yust mein expenses not + make. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'm sorry, truly. But what could I do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I dunno vot you do, but you keep out from mein place. Dey + comes me somebody every veek und plays me dot trick, und den tells me I + get dem arrested! <i>(Rushes to door.)</i> Find me a police! I keep dis + man here till I find a police! Help! Police! police! <i>(Exit shouting).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (to Belle).</i> God knows I'm sorry. But I can't help you. You + see, I can't even help myself. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Are you really as bad off as you said? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I am clean down and out. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt (rushes back).</i> All right! Now I got a police! I show you! + You come und rob a man! I show you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman (enters Center; a big red-faced Irishman).</i> An' phat's + this, now? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Policeman, you arrest him und you take him to jail. He + comes by my place und he eats my food und den he tells me he don't pay me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman (to Jack).</i> Phat's the matter wid yez? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Officer, I had to have something to eat—I was starving. + I have walked the streets for two days, begging for a job, and I've not + been able to earn a penny. I was desperate. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman (grasping Jack).</i> Where do yez live, young divvil? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I've come from—a long way off. And I've been + unfortunate—lost my money. I've tried my best. I'm willing to work—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Why didn't yez ask him for work? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I don't vant his vork. I vant his money, or you takes him + to jail. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> An' phat might his bill be? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Thirty-five cents. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman (to Schmidt).</i> Do yez think I've no more to do than + arrestin' people for thirty-five cents? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt (excitedly).</i> Can I feed all the tramps on dis Avenue by my + place? I say you arrest him! + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Well, all right—if that's it. Come along here. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Mr. Schmidt. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Let me pay what he owes you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Let me pay it. He's a friend of mine, and I don't want him + arrested. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No, no—I won't have it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You can pay me back. You'll get a job soon. Mr. Schmidt, + will you take it out of my next wages? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I say no! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You can't help it. Just take it out of my wages, and let him + alone—that'll settle it, won't it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Ja, wohl, if you say it so. I haf no more to do mit it! <i>(goes + Left in anger).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> That's all right, isn't it, officer? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Yez kin call yourself lucky, young feller. Next time + I'll not let yez off so aisy <i>(exit Center).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (stands gazing at Belle).</i> Oh, say! That was awfully decent of + you! I don't know how to thank you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You needn't thank me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> But—why did you do it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Because I didn't want you to go to jail. A fellow gets + started at that, and he doesn't know where to stop. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You make me feel like a dog, because I can't help you. I had + no business to come here! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Don't make so much out of it. We have to give each other a + hand now and then—we'd none of us pull through if we didn't. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I've done nothing to deserve a hand! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You showed me a little kindness. Can't you understand how + that might be worth something? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (looking at her keenly).</i> When you're sick and discouraged and + lonely—yes. <i>(with sudden intensity)</i> By Jove, I <i>do</i> + understand! I've wandered up and down these streets all day and all night, + and I never dreamed of such loneliness! I could have gone and drowned + myself in the river. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I've thought of that too—but did you ever go and look + in? It's even more lonely in the river. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (hesitates).</i> I wish you'd let me be a friend of yours <i>(laughs + with a touch of embarrassment).</i> It's a queer way to get an + introduction. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I don't mind that. I can see when a man is straight—when + I can trust him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (looks about).</i> Well, I suppose I've got to go <i>(hesitates).</i> + Gee! <i>(looks outside).</i> Brr-r! It's cold out there! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Have you no place to go? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I have not <i>(starts, then hesitates).</i> Gee! I wish I had + a job here. Somehow it seems kind of homelike in this place! <i>(pantomime + showing Jack's reluctance).</i> Well—I suppose I've got to go on. + Say—do you suppose they need another waiter here. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I don't know. You might ask. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (goes to Schimidt).</i> I say, Mr. Schmidt, you couldn't use + another waiter here, could you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I could not. Move along now, or I call anodder police! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (returns to Belle).</i> Gee, it must be tough for a girl like you + to be ordered about by a great hulking brute of a Dutchman who has no + thought in the world but his cash-drawer! Well, I've got to go. May I come + here to eat some time—if I can get the money? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Yes, surely. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Well, good-bye! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Good-bye <i>(she staggers slightly and he looks at her + sharply).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why, what's the matter with you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Nothing. I'm—I'm just a little weak <i>(catches + herself by the chair).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (supporting her).</i> Why—she's fainting! Here! <i>(To + Schmidt)</i> Bring me some water. She is ill. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (feebly).</i> No! I'm all right! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (to Schmidt).</i> Hand me that water here. Quick, man! <i>(Schmidt + obeys, dazed by his vehemence.)</i> There, that's better? <i>(Settles + Belle in chair.)</i> Didn't you know the girl was ill? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> She haf not told me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> One look would have told you. She ought to go home and stay + in bed for a week. + </p> + <p> + She ought to be sent away somewhere—the city is no place for one in + her condition. <i>(Belle leans Her head against the table.)</i> There! + There! <i>(Pats her on the arm.)</i> Why, she's as thin as a rail! How + could you work a girl so? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Who is to do her work? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'll do it myself— + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> You? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Of course. Why can't I do it? Why can't I do it right along? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vot? Take her place? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Certainly. Let her go home and stay. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> No, no! I can't give up. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> It won't be giving up. It'll be resting. I'll bring you the + money—I can pay you back that way. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But how will you live? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I don't know. I'll make out. He'll feed me. <i>(To Schmidt.)</i> + You give me a chance. I'll show you what I can do. Here <i>(takes Belle's + apron and puts it on).</i> Now, then—bring on your customers! I've + been a waiter all my life! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I can't let you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You go and rest. I'll help you home when we close <i>(starts + leading her Left).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> My sister comes for me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> All right. But you have a rest meantime <i>(exit with Belle).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Humph! You don't vait to hear vot I say! <i>(he paces up + and down in anger).</i> Vot you tink of dot for nerve, hey? He comes by + mine place und he hires himself to vork for me, und he don't ask if I vant + him! Vell, I feed him vot I feed a girl. I don't feed him no double + orders! <i>(shakes his fist at exit Left)</i> No sir! I feed you on single + orders, und if you vant double orders, you go by Schnitzelman on der next + block! I make no money in der restaurant business, I got to pay more vages + for my cook, und den she don't stay! Und I got to pay more for food, und + it ain't so good as it vas, und mine customers find it out und dey don't + come back to me! You get no double orders by me, you hear me, sir? <i>(exit + Left, storming) (suddenly the bell rings in the Real-play Left. Play-play + vanishes.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (starting).</i> What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (leaping in at window).</i> Somebody's at the door! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (starts to door Left).</i> I'll see. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (running past her).</i> Let me see! <i>(opens door)</i> Oh, it's + Mr. Schmidt! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Mr. <i>Schmidt?</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Our grocer. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt (appears in doorway of Real-play, wearing same costume).</i> + Good afternoon, lady. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, Mr. Schmidt. Good afternoon, Mr. Schmidt. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I come to see ven you pay me dot bill, lady. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I'm sorry, Mr. Schmidt, we haven't the money yet. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> But you told me you haf dot money soon! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I know—Mr. Schmidt— + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I <i>got</i> to haf dot money, lady! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Can't you see I'm working as hard as I can? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I dunno vot you do for vorking. I dunno vy if you vork you + don't haf money to pay your grocer bills. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Well, I know about my work better than you, I guess!— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Now, Will—be quiet. Listen, Mr. Schmidt—we've + had hard luck the last few days, but we're honest people, and we won't + cheat you out of your money. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> You don't come by my place for some days, now, hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> We haven't had money to buy anything, Mr. Schmidt. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i>—Vot you do for food den—hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> We had a little bread—and those beans you gave us—and + the prunes. We've been living on them. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> But dem beans und prunes—dey should be all gone now. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> We've been sparing. There's enough for to-morrow morning + yet. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Hey? Mein Gott! Und vot you feed dot liddle boy, hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> We're hoping for a check to-day—or perhaps to-morrow. + My husband wrote a poem, and a magazine has just published it— + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. Poem, hey? Vot dey pay for poems? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. I don't know. Maybe twenty or thirty dollars. And then we + can pay your bill, and you'll let us have some more beans. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. It is not right dot liddle boy should live on beans! (<i>stands + scratching his head</i>) I dunno, lady, I dunno—it is not right your + husband should vork and not get paid. I got mine own bills to pay—und + I don't make no money by my store. But you can't feed dot liddle boy on + beans und prunes. You come to my place now, und I give you some pickles + und some sauerkraut. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Oh, thank you, Mr. Schmidt! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i> (<i>desperately</i>). We'll truly pay you, Mr. Schmidt! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. If my husband can't sell his work, I'm going back on the + stage. I was an actress before I married. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt</i>. All right, lady, I trust you. Good-bye, liddle boy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill, Will, and Peggy</i>. Good-bye, Mr. Schmidt! (<i>Schmidt exit.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i> (<i>turning to Will</i>). There now—off in your local + color! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. How? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy</i>. Have you forgotten what you made Jack say about Mr. Schmidt: + a great hulking brute of a Dutchman, who has no thought of anything in the + world but his cash-drawer! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will</i>. Well—I have to have a story! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But you don't have to have such a melancholy story! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes I do! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But why? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Because that's the sort of story I'm writing! Come along now. + (<i>turns to papers. Bell rings again.</i>) Oh, Lord! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (opens door Left).</i> What's this? + </p> + <p> + <i>The Policeman.</i> Good-day, mum. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy and Will.</i> Why—good-day. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> I come to see yez, mum. Yez have a mattress on yer + fire-escape, mum. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why—yes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> It's agin the law mum, and yez could be got into + trooble. I got strict orders, mum—yez must have it in. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, very well. I didn't know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman</i> Yez kin see how 'tis, mum. If there'd be a fire— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, certainly, certainly. But you see, it's the only place + we have to put the little boy while we're writing. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Oh, is that so? Well, now, that's too bad! Sure, mum——well, + 'tis on the back fire-escape the mattress is, an' I'd no business to be + seein' it, had I? I'll fergit that I seen it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh! Thank you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> And how is the little b'y, mum? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> He's pretty well, thank you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> He's a bit pale in the cheeks, I'm thinkin'. Yez should + have him over to the park a bit more. Well, good-day to yez, mum. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy, Bill and Will.</i> Good-day. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> There, Will! Off in your local color again. I'll bet you the + Policeman would have paid Jack's bill himself! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (irritably).</i> Well, for God's sake, Peggy, what sort of a story + would you leave me? Have I got to write cheap cheer-up stuff? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Now don't be cross, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Well, I know—but—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (embraces him).</i> Poor dear! He's working so hard and he does + get cross with his critics. Hurry up, Bill, and get outside, or he'll snap + your head off! Quick! Fly! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (exit to fire-escape).</i> Gee! I'm glad I ain't writing a play! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Now, come on. I'm interested in this. Where were we? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> The scene is in the restaurant. Schmidt is on—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I thought he went off! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Well, there's no law to prevent his coming back, is there? (<i>The + Play-play begins to appear.</i>) He's grumbling because he thinks Jack + will eat too much. (<i>Full light on Play-play. Peggy and Will make secret + exit.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> I send him by Schnitzelman on der next block! I send him + so soon as I find him eating double orders! He haf noddings to eat for two + days und he comes by me to make it up! (<i>Sits at desk, and takes + newspaper.</i>) + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (enters Center, hesitating).</i> Say! + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vot? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Kin I git something to eat here? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> You got any money? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure I got money. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Let me see it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Hully gee! Before I eat? + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> You get noddings in my place till I see your money! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Gee! Since when is this? Here! <i>(Shows money.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> A nickel? You don't get much fer a nickel! <i>(Calls.)</i> + Hey, you! Vaiter! Vy, you don't come for my customers? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (rushes in Left).</i> Here! <i>(Sees Bill.)</i> Oh, hello! It's + the kid! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Whatcher doin' here? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (comes up to him, whispers).</i> I got a job! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Hully gee! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> A fine job! No wages—but I'll get my grub every day. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Well, I want grub too! I got the stuff! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (excitedly).</i> A customer! <i>(Turns to Schmidt.)</i> See, Mr. + Schmidt, a customer already! <i>(Rushes with alacrity to table.)</i> Have + a seat, sir. Your hat, sir. <i>(Hangs it up.)</i> There, sir. Here's the + menu, sir. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Cully, whatcher givin' us? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Ssh! <i>(Aloud.)</i> What will you have, sir? Sweet bread + croquettes, sir? We have delicious sweet-bread croquettes today. Or + perhaps you'd like—let me see, sir. <i>(Snatches menu.)</i> Corned + beef hash, sir, or possibly a charlotte russe. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, what the blazes—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Your napkin, sir. Your knife and fork, sir. You'll have a + glass of water, of course, sir! <i>(Rushes for water.)</i> There, sir, + you'll have bread and butter, sir? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I'll have a ham sandwich. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Ah! Most wholesome food—ham sandwiches! As quickly as + possible, sir. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Make it a big one. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (aside).</i> You bet I will. <i>(Hurries Left, gets sandwich and + returns.)</i> There's your sandwich. Ain't that a lulu? <i>(To Schmidt.)</i> + See, Mr. Schmidt! Trade's picking up already. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Yes, I see—I make my fortune by you. + </p> + <p> + <i>(Belle enters Left, looks about.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Has my sister come for me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Not yet. <i>(Goes over to Belle.)</i> Feeling any better? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I'm pretty tired. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (a pause).</i> Tell me—how long have you been doing this? + Waiting, I mean. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Four years. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> And how long do you expect to do it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> How should I know. What other chance have I? I can make just + enough to keep going from week to week, and Dolly the same. It's like + being in a trap. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I never realized it before. <i>(A pause.)</i> Was it always + like this? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> No, we had a chance while father was alive. He was a + railroad conductor. He was killed in an accident. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> And didn't you get any damages? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> They said it was his fault. He stepped in front of an + express. They paid for his funeral. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> And then you were stranded? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> We had enough to come to New York. We heard that wages were + higher here. But everything else is higher, and you can't save anything. + You're really worse off in New York, because nobody cares whether you + starve or not. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Nobody cares! <i>(With sudden intensity.)</i> Listen, Belle. + I care! I honestly do. I want to help you to get out of this! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But how can you help me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I don't know, but I'll find a way. There must be a way! It's + too cruel—it can't be true that people starve to death in the midst + of so much wealth. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You don't know much about being poor, I see. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (Has finished sandwich, rises and comes over, pats himself).</i> + Gee! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Good stuff, hey? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Betcher. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You'll come again then? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure thing. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (to Schmidt, who rises and crosses Left).</i> You see, Mr. + Schmidt! He'll come again! + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Yes, I make my fortune by you <i>(exit Left).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Gee, I allus wisht I had a job in a restaurant! Or in a candy + store! Well, so long, old pal. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> So long. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (starts Right, then stops).</i> Say! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (coming to him).</i> Here's your nickel. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Good Lord, I forgot it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse'll be a great help to this joint! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (takes it).</i> I suppose I must take it. <i>(Puts it in his + pocket.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (staring at him).</i> Gee, is it a tip? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What do you mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (grins).</i> Huh. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You've got to ring it up on the cash register. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Oh! <i>(Laughs and goes to cash desk.)</i> How do you work + the infernal thing? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Press the five—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> There! <i>(Rings.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Gawd-a'mighty, that's five dollars! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Five DOLLARS? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> But—what shall I do now? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Give me four ninety-five change and then we'll be square. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (making a stab at him).</i> Get out, you rascal! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (flees, laughing).</i> Gee, I'll come back to this joint! <i>(Exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> It's most time we were closing. My sister's late. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What does your sister do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> She does sewing. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Does she earn much? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Just enough to keep us alive. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (enters from street. She is older than Belle, attractive looking, + but sharp and aggressive in manner, thin and careworn, poorly dressed, and + with snow on her clothing.)</i> Why, what's this? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Belle's sick. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (springs to her).</i> Belle! What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (looks up feebly).</i> Just tired, Dolly. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> But him? In your apron. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I told her I'd do the work and give her the money. She needs + a rest. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> But what's that for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Well, I came in here and ate a meal, and she stood for the + bill. Now I want to help her. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (vehemently).</i> You're trying to steal her job! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, Dolly! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I want to give her the money! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Who's to make you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Fix it up with the old man. If he'll feed me, that's all I'll + ask. He can pay the money to you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> What do you take my sister for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You've struck the wrong girls. We're not that kind. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What kind? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Let me tell you, young fellow, you can't work your games on + me. You let my sister alone. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Good Lord! What do you take me for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I take you for a man. And you don't get any hold on my + sister! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Dolly! You—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You keep out of this, I'll talk to him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (impetuously).</i> Look here! I want to help your sister. I won't + stand by and see her die. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> What's it to you if she does? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Didn't she save me from jail? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> That wasn't much. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> It was her best. Now I want to do mine. Listen to me! Let + Belle have a chance. It's been a long time since she's had one, I fancy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> That's true enough. But she'll be on her job tomorrow. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> She's ill. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> She's been ill a long time. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> She can't go on forever! And what then? Can you take her job? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> See here, young fellow—you might just as well save + your breath. You're not going to come any game over me. We're not making + any show, but we've kept decent, and we'll go on trying. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Where did you learn such ideas? What sort of men have you + met? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> That's not the question—it's what sort of men my + sister's going to meet! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Dolly, I'm sure you're mistaken about Jack—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (to Schmidt, who enters Left).</i> Mr. Schmidt, my sister will be + here to work to-morrow morning. + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Vot? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But, Dolly—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (stamping her foot).</i> Tell him! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (feebly).</i> All right, I'll come. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Now then—come home. <i>(Lifts her by the arm and + starts to street.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Good-bye, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You're going off like that? You won't even let me help you + home? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Thank you, Jack. I'll get along. <i>(Jack starts towards + her, but she continues to the door. When almost there she staggers.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (trying to hold her).</i> Belle! What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (leaps to help her).</i> There! You see! You'll <i>have</i> to let + me help her! She can't walk, I tell you! See now, I'm strong, I can almost + carry her. This way, Belle—now we'll go all right. And you'll have a + good rest and get well and then come back——<i>(Exit with Belle + and Dolly.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Schmidt.</i> Und they go out und don't tell me who is coming back in + der morning! Und dey leave me to shut up mine restaurant by mineself! <i>(Shakes + fist.)</i> All right! Ven you come back to-morrow I send you up to + Schnitzelman on der next block! I don't have you come by my restaurant und + eat double orders of beef stew und coffee! No, sir! I run mine little + restaurant for mineself a while! I got so many debts, und I don't get no + customers, I don't make no money by mine liddle place! When you come back + here you don't find no job—you go up to Schnitzelman for your double + orders! <i>(Loud fire alarm heard. Play-play fades.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (at window Right).</i> It's a fire! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> What? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Look! It's right down the street! <i>(Sounds of fire-bells + and shouts heard in Real-play.)</i> Fire! Fire! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (sharply).</i> Don't lean out! <i>(Runs to him.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (beside himself with excitement).</i> Oh! It's right down the + street! It's the restaurant! That little restaurant down the street! Fire! + Fire! <i>(Turns to Peggy and Will.)</i> Come, quick! Where's my cap? <i>(Rushes + and gets cap, starts to door.)</i> The restaurant's on fire! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Wait, Bill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> But I want to see it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You can't go alone. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Then come with me! Come with me! I've got to see it! (<i>Dancing + with excitement.</i>) Come on! Come on! Perhaps we can get some of those + charlotte russes in the window! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (rising resignedly).</i> We'll have to stop work. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Oh, I hear the engine coming! Hurry! Hurry! They'll have it + all out! <i>(Rushes to window.)</i> Oh, look! Look! There's the engine! <i>(Peggy + holding him.)</i> Look, Peggy! See the firemen! The engine's stopping! See + all the smoke! There's flames—don't you see? Out of the window of + the little restaurant! Oh, gee! Look how the firemen run! They've got + axes! Oh! Oh! Oh! They're smashing in the windows! Look, they're running + out the hose! See them—they're going into the restaurant! One after + another—into the smoke! Look at that, Peggy! Hurrah! Hurrah! + Charlotte russes to burn! + </p> + <h3> + CURTAIN. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT III. + </h2> + <p> + <i>Scene: The attic, the following evening. The Play-play shows a tenement + room. Entrance to hall Left; also a small stove. In center a table. + Entrance to another room, Right.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>At rise: The Real-play, showing Will buried in his manuscripts, Left. + Peggy Right at the cot, where there is a substitute child, representing + Bill asleep.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (goes and watches Will).</i> Well, how goes the Pot-boiler? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Almost through. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will, do you think it can be good if you do it so fast? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I can't do it any other way, dear. I have to throw it off at + white heat. We can go back and revise it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You look dreadfully pale, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I know—I'm tired. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You promised you wouldn't work right after meals. How is + your stomach? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh, bother my stomach! I can't keep away from this work, + there's no use talking about it. Come see what you make of this + manuscript. <i>(Peggy sits.)</i> I want to show a front scene, the same as + in the last act. It's the restaurant again. <i>(The Play-play begins to + appear as in Scene II, Act II, but showing restaurant in ruins.)</i> It's + morning. There's a difference, you see. The place has been burned out. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes, Bill and I had a look at it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> There's the policeman on guard, marching up and down; and + Bill comes on. Here, read it. <i>(Full light on the Play-play.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Hello! What's happened? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> I'll give yez three guesses! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> A fire! + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Right yez are! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> When did it happen? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> In the night. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> And where's Schmidt? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> He's in jail. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> In jail? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Sure, the firemen smelled kerosene. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Holy smoke! The poor old Dutchie! He set fire to his place! + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> That's what they say. I wasn't here. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Well, I'll be switched! If I'd been here I might a' got some + charlotte russes! + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> With kerosene on them, belike! <i>(Starts Right.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, mister! Youse know that guy that was waiter here? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> Yes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> They didn't jug him, did they? + </p> + <p> + <i>Policeman.</i> No. He's lookin' for his week's wages! <i>(Laughs; exit + Right.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Holy smoke! <i>(A murmur is heard from the child on cot + Right. The Play-play begins to fade. Faint light on the Real-play.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (rises and goes over to cot; then returns to Will).</i> He seems + to be more restless. Oh, I hope he's not going to be sick! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (In agitation).</i> Don't let's get to thinking about that now! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> All right, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We're coming to the big scenes. I want to show the tenement + where Belle and Dolly live. <i>(The Play-play begins to appear.)</i> + There's a room adjoining, where Jack stays. It's a few days after the + fire. Belle has gone out to get something for supper. Meantime the + land-lady comes. I used our landlady. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> That ought to make a lively scene! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We're entitled to a little vengeance, I think imagine her—with + her ostrich feathers and her greasy old blue dress, her sharp red nose and + her fighting voice. I've got our landlady, you bet! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Give it here. <i>(Full light on the Play-play. Peggy makes + secret exit. Repeated knocks at the door of Play-play Left.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady (opens door).</i> Now, where's them people? <i>(Looks about + suspiciously.)</i> Haven't skipped, I hope! <i>(Goes to room Right.)</i> + Anybody in here? Humph! Looks like they're hard up! A bum lot! <i>(Belle + appears Left with shawl over shoulders and a loaf of bread in her hand.)</i> + Oh! Here you are! I want that rent. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Why do you come for it to-night? <i>(She stands in doorway, + as if afraid of the woman.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Ain' it been due two weeks? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But I told you we'd have it to-morrow. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Well, it's nearly to-morrow. I want to get it before it's + gone. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But Dolly doesn't get home until very late. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> You keep telling me about Dolly—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> She said she'd have some money. I'll bring it to your room + as soon as she gets home. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> All right. I've got sick of waitin' for that money! If + you haven't got it you can just move on, that's all! You might as well + understand—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (with gesture of distraction).</i> Oh, all right! All right! I've + told you we're doing our best! <i>(Turns and rushes off Left.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Well, now. Will you look at that! <i>(Paces up and down.)</i> + They come and use your rooms and if you ask what's due you, they turn and + run! That's what it is to be a landlady! That's the way they treat you! <i>(Calls.)</i> + Here! You don't need to move to-night! <i>(Follows off Left; calling.)</i> + What are you running for? I'm not going to eat you! But I want you to know + I got to have that money—I got my own bills to pay. <i>(A bell + sounds in the Real-play and the Play-play fades instantly.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> God! It seems to me that bell rings all day and all night! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (rising).</i> Wait, dear. I'll answer it. + </p> + <p> + <i>(Rises and goes to door. Will continues absorbed in manuscript.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady (at door of Real-play).</i> Good-evening. I've come for the + rent. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I'm sorry, but you know I told you it would be a few days + yet. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> How many days do you call a few? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Well, a day or two more. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> That rent's overdue a month. You'll have to get it + somehow or quit. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (looking up from manuscript).</i> Didn't I tell you you could have + it when Dolly gets home? + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Dolly! Who's Dolly? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh, I——<i>(Laughs.)</i> I beg pardon! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (laughing with him).</i> You see, my husband's writing a play, + and Dolly is one of the characters in it. We're putting you in, too. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> <i>Me?</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes—I hope you won't mind. You see, he wanted somebody + that was interesting, that people would like to see on the stage—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> And when it comes out you can go and see it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> We'll get you tickets, you know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We'll be delighted to place a box at your disposal. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Well, for the land's sake! <i>(Beaming.)</i> What sort of + a character am I? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Why, you're the landlady in the play; there's a poor family + in distress, and you take pity on them, and help them in their trouble. + It's very touching—everybody will be moved to tears by it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady (suspiciously).</i> Well now, that's all right, but I have to + have my rent. I have to pay the agent for this house. If you can't pay me, + I have to ask you to move. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, surely you wouldn't do that! + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Why wouldn't I? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Don't you see how it would be in the play? You'd be hard and + unmerciful. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Everybody would dislike you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Think how ashamed you'd feel—before a whole theatre + full of people every night! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You see, you must live up to the character we've imagined. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Well, for the land's sake! <i>(Overcome by curiosity.)</i> + When is this to be played? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Just as soon as I can get it done. + </p> + <p> + <i>Landlady.</i> Well, don't be too long. I'd like to help you, but I need + my money as much as anybody. <i>(Grinning.)</i> Well, now, ain't that + cute! In a play! Well, good luck to you! I'm sorry I interrupted you, I + hope it'll be all right. Good-evening. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy and Will.</i> Good-evening. <i>(Landlady exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Did you ever hear the equal of that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Off in your local color again! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We can jolly her along for a month yet! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> The landlady and the grocer—we can work forever! <i>(Child + tosses restlessly in sleep and murmurs.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (rises and goes to cot, and soothes child).</i> There, there, + Bill. <i>(To Will, who rises.)</i> Dear, he's feverish. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Are you sure? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, I ought to get the doctor! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We already owe the doctor. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I know—but he'd come if I asked him to. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> What good could he do? He'd only tell us what we already know—that + you can't keep a child well if you shut him up in a tenement room in hot + summer weather, and feed him on beans and prunes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will, listen to me. I can stand anything else—but if + Bill gets sick, we have to give up! Do you understand? I couldn't endure + that—I—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (wildly).</i> Why do we have to start that now? I want to finish + the play! <i>(Drags her to work-table.)</i> Come! Sit down here and let's + get busy! Right off! Not another word! <i>(They sit side by side.)</i> + I've a scene here with Bill. I want to know what you think of it. <i>(Lights + begin to rise on Play-play.)</i> Bill comes to see Belle. This manuscript—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Give it to me. <i>(They read together. Full light on the + Play-play. Peggy makes secret exit. Several knocks on the door of + Play-play Left. Bill opens timidly and looks about.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Nobody home? <i>(Calls.)</i> Hey! Anybody in here? Well, I + suppose they won't mind if I make myself at home. Gee, I wonder if they'll + sure enough let me stay here! <i>(Sits on chair.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (enters).</i> Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Good evening. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse remember me, lady? I was in Schmidt's restaurant! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, yes! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I'm a friend o' Jack's. I seen him on the street just now. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Has he got a job yet? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Nothin' yet. Gee, that was tough—how he lost his week's + wages! Do youse think that old Dutchie set the fire? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I don't know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I seen there was a fur-shop over that there joint, and they + say that fur-shops burn up in February—when they've sold out their + stock! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You're a knowing kid! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse got to be knowin' at my job! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (noticing that he has a black eye).</i> You've got a black eye! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure! A shiner! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> How did you get it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Me step-father. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> What did you do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure, I ran into his fist. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But—what did he hit you for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> He don't need no reason. He hits. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, you poor kid! Why do you stand it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I ain't goin' to, no more. I told Jack about it, an' he says + fer me to come and stay in his room. Will youse take me in? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Why, sure! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I ain't no dead beat, youse unnerstand. I earn my keep. Look + a here! <i>(Pulls out a handful of pennies.)</i> Ain't much gold in it, + but it makes a good jingle. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> How did you get it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Extry! Extry! Woil'n Join'l! Sun'n Globe! Mail'n Telygram! <i>(Looks + about.)</i> Say, I don't like the housekeepin' in this here joint. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> A woman ought t'unnerstan'—when a man's been out + hustlin' all day, he wants good, warm, nourishin' food, an' he wants it + quick. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Well, sir, you see, sir, if I'd known exactly what hour + you'd be in, sir! How would a slice of bread strike you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Hand it out! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (gives him bread and he stuffs it. She sits on table.)</i> Come + here, Bill. You know, it looks nice, having you here. I had a little + brother once. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse did? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I used to take care of him. If you're going to be a member + of this family, I'll have to take care of you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Watcher mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I used to wash the smut off his face before each meal. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (disconcerted).</i> Gee! Three times a day? Gawd a'mighty! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I'll pay you for it, Bill. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> What'll youse pay? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Well, I wonder. A kid that's had a stepfather to beat him + and no one to love him! <i>(Puts her arm around him and kisses him gently + on the cheek.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Holy smoke! <i>(Wonder and delight dawn on his face.)</i> + Say! I like that! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Then it's a bargain? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Sure! Put it there! <i>(They shake hands.)</i> Does it begin + to-night? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> No, I'm too tired to-night. We'll start out fresh in the + morning. You must be tired too, Bill. You'd better go in and sleep. <i>(Leads + him Right.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Belle! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I like them kisses. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (clasps him in her arms.)</i> Poor little fellow! <i>(Kisses him + again.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Gee, but this is like heaven! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Good-night, Bill. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Good-night. <i>(Exit, closes door.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (returns, sinks to table with a moan of exhaustion; then hearing + Jack coming, sits up, listens, gets herself together and pretends to be + busy.)</i> Hello, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (enters).</i> Well, Belle? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Did you get any work to-day? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Fine luck to-day. I made a quarter, helping to load a truck. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Is that all? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Better than nothing. How goes it with you, Belle? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Pretty well. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Only pretty well? Isn't the rest doing you good? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Some good, I think, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Say, Belle! Do you know, I think you were much better after + that imaginary journey we took the other night. Let's take another. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (looking up with a feeble smile).</i> So soon? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I've got some more time-tables. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Where's it to be? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'm tired of the Europe business. It takes so long, getting + to Switzerland and Egypt. I believe in seeing America first. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Where shall we go? To Hoboken? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Stop laughing at me. We're going to Florida. <i>(Draws up + chair to table and spreads out R. R. folders and time-tables.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Where do you get those? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> At the ticket-office. They give them away. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> With those lovely pictures! How nice of them! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes—isn't it! Now—here's the Atlantic Coast line. + We leave New York at noon—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But it's night now, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I know—but we've already started. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (studying folder).</i> This train leaves New York three times. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> That's the different ferries. Let's see. At 10 p. m. we've + just got to Richmond. We reach Palm Beach at eleven in the evening—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> What? A whole day on the train? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> A day and a half, altogether. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, Jack! What did you have to pay for the tickets. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I tell you, Belle, you must never worry about expense when + you're travelling. It spoils all the pleasure. Now, let's see. We go to + the Royal Palm Hotel. Here's a picture of it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, Jack! What a heavenly place! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Of course, they color it up rather bright in these + advertisements. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Won't they charge us frightfully? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No, no. You can stay there for ten dollars a day. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Ten dollars a day! Jack, you don't mean that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> We can't expect to keep our expenses under that. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But that'll be thirty dollars, Jack! You know we've got + Dolly with us. We can't travel alone. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No, no—to be sure. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Do people really spend money like that, Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You get a lot for it, Belle. It's the loveliest place in the + world. There are palm trees and flowers all the year round. It never + snows, and it's seldom cold. There's a broad, white beach, and you lie and + watch the green ocean, and the long white breakers rolling in, and the + lines of pelicans flying just above them. And, oh, the nights! You'd think + you could stretch out your hands and gather in armfuls of the stars! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Jack! How perfectly lovely! <i>(Stares before her; a + silence. Suddenly she buries her face in her arms on the table.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why Belle! What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, Jack! Jack! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (in distress).</i> What is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I don't think I like playing this game. I can't stand it any + more! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> It's better you don't ask me, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> But I want to know! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> You have so many worries of your own. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (gazes at her thoughtfully; then puts his hand upon hers).</i> + Belle, are you really as sick as all that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I don't want to tell you, Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Don't you think it's just that you're discouraged about your + health? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I don't know. I try to persuade myself—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You must really not give up. You must believe me when I tell + you that you are going to get well. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Jack, you're the best friend a girl ever had; but your + saying so won't make me get well. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Listen. I have a sister. Once she got run down. She was more + ill than you are, but now she's bright and happy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Did she have to work all the time? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No, she went away to Florida. That's why I was telling you + about it. I mean to send you—not just in play, but really. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> How could I live in such an expensive place? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You don't have to stay in a hotel. You might live there for + fifteen dollars a week. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But, Jack, I never earned fifteen dollars a week in my life. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You won't have to earn it. If you'll only wait a little + while, I'll have it. If you'll only wait five months—— + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Jack, why do you always keep talking about the money you're + going to have in five months? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I can't explain, Belle, but won't you believe me? I had a lot + of money once, but I didn't appreciate it—I didn't realize what it + meant. Now that I've got you, I can promise you I'll enjoy spending it. + Believe me and be patient—only five months more. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (smiles wanly).</i> I'm afraid, Jack, in five months I'll be + dead. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (clutching her hand).</i> No, no! Don't talk like that! You + mustn't do it, Belle! We're going to save you—I tell you we are. + We're going to make the fight together—we're not going to say die! + It's too cruel—too wicked! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Jack, why do you take so much trouble with me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'm going to bring you through! I mean it! I'm going to get + the money, and send you to Florida. Dolly shall go with you, and you shall + live out on the beach—just as my sister did. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But, Jack—even if you had the money—how could I + let you spend it on me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You could—you couldn't help it, Belle. I would do it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> No, Jack, it wouldn't be decent. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> To save your life? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> No, not even to save my life. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (tenderly).</i> Belle, listen to me. I've got a right to save your + life. Can't you understand? I want you to get well. I love you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (stares at him).</i> Jack! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, I love you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle (sobs).</i> Jack, Jack! <i>(He clasps her in his arms; she weeps + frantically.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> What is the matter? What is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Oh, Jack, why did you wait so long? Why didn't you come to + me before it was too late? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Too late? + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Why did you have to wait till I was dying? Oh, I can't bear + it! You oughtn't to have told me! It's too cruel! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Belle, don't take on that way! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I tell you it's too late. Too late! <i>(She sobs + convulsively.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (in anguish).</i> Belle! Belle! You mustn't give up like that! + Listen to me, dear! + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Wait! Wait! Don't talk to me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> You're exhausted, dear. Come—lie down. <i>(He leads her + off Right; speaks off.)</i> There, lie and rest. Don't talk any more now. + <i>(Returns; speaks in entrance.)</i> Be quiet, and see if you can't go to + sleep! <i>(He paces the room, muttering to himself.)</i> No, I can't stand + it. This is no joke. It's no part of the game. I must save Belle's life—I'd + no right to wait this long. <i>(With sudden resolution.)</i> I'll write to + Jessie. She'll come and help her. Bargain or no bargain, I'll write! <i>(Vehemently.)</i> + You go to the devil, Bob—I don't care how much you tease me! Yes! + Yes! The reality of life! I'm getting it all right. And I've got to + knuckle down and take what teasing comes to me. My God, what a fool I was—what + a drivelling fool! And I'll lose my quarter of a million! I don't care—I've + got to save Belle! I'll write to-night! <i>(Takes pencil and paper, sits + at table and writes. The door Left opens softly, and Dolly appears, + haggard and anxious.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You here! Where's Belle? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> She's asleep. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Jack. I've got to go away from here! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Go away! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Yes. The police will be looking for me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> The police! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I'm accused of stealing. Oh, don't think it—I didn't + do it. Before God, I didn't! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Of course not, Dolly! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I must go. I must take Belle with me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> But she can't go, Dolly! She's too ill. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> She'll be worse if she stays here and the police come for + me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Tell me about it, Dolly. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> No, no! I can't. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Don't ask me. <i>(She stares about distractedly.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> May be I can help you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Nobody can help me—ever! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Dolly! Why should you hide anything from me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I can't bear to tell! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You'd despise me forever. Belle would despise me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> But that's impossible, Dolly. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (she stares into his face, then suddenly clutches his arm; in a + hoarse whisper)</i> I sold myself to save her! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> My God! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Ah, don't look at me like that. I told you not to ask me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (half frenzied).</i> But Dolly; you don't understand! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Understand what? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I've been living on your money! <i>(They stare at each + other.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Jack, don't do like that! You didn't know it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (covers his face with his hands).</i> Oh, how <i>dared</i> you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Don't go on so! You know I couldn't help it. What else could + we do? We hadn't a dollar in the house. <i>(She catches him by the arm.)</i> + Don't be selfish, Jack! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Selfish! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You're thinking of yourself—not of me and Belle. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> When was it? To-night? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> This wasn't the first time. But it was always for Belle. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (in a whisper).</i> For Belle! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I've worked till I was ready to drop. I've slaved day and + night—but I couldn't make enough. And so, every now and then, I'd go + to a house. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> When did it begin! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Nearly a year ago. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Belle has never guessed it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Good God! She would kill herself! Listen—I'll tell you + the story. What does it matter now—you'll never see me again. It + began in a department store—twelve dollars a week. Fine wages, with + two to care for! It was slave—slave all day. Never a holiday, never + a joy; nothing beautiful, nothing new! No hope, no future; just slave—slave! + And there was a young man—what they call a gentleman. He took me to + dinners, and I went, because I was near starving. In the end he got me, of + course. And then he threw me over, and I went to work again. You see? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I see. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> After that it was worse. I was spoiled. But I was afraid + Belle might suspect, so I kept straight for a long time. But it was no go. + She was working herself to death—and I'd see her ill, and I couldn't + stand it. I'd tell her I had a job in a hotel uptown. I'd be gone all + night—and I'd bring her money. That's my life! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (in a low voice).</i> Are there many like that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> The town is full of them. I know a girl who went to a church + home. They said they couldn't help her—they were for 'fallen women.' + She came back again and told them they could help her now—she was a + fallen woman. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> God! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> She was starving, that was what drove her. That's what + drives thousands. And for that we're despised. The good women—they + spit upon us! I sometimes wonder—do they think we like it? <i>(Laughs + harshly.)</i> That a woman should like to give herself to any brute that + comes along! <i>(Seizing Jack by the arm.)</i> Tell me! What does it mean? + Whose sins do we pay for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I don't know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> If there's a God in heaven, how can he allow it? How can he + allow some to be idle and rich, and to despise us who have nothing? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Tell me about to-night. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I went to the old place. And there was a man—he was + drunk, and he'd lost his money, and he said I'd robbed him. A servant gave + me the tip—the madam had sent for the police. I dodged out by the + basement way. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> And they're after you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> The man's a politician—some big man—and so + they'll hunt me out. I'm a stranger, I've no friends, and they'll send me + up for a year or two. I wouldn't care; I'm rotten—fit for nothing + but the dump-heap. But there's Belle. She's straight, and I must keep her + straight. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, Dolly, we'll keep her straight. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I never thought I'd trust another man, Jack. But I think + you're decent. Mark this though! <i>(Fiercely.)</i> By the God above, if + you ever do Belle any harm, Jack, I'll shoot you dead! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Dolly! Why talk to me that way? I love her. I've told her + that I love her. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You mean to marry her? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Of course. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (seizes his hand).</i> Jack! And you'll be good to her? <i>(Turns + quickly, without waiting for answer.)</i> We must get away from here! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Wait! Let me think. I know a place where they'll never find + us. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Where is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'll take you to it. Get Belle ready. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You're sure it's safe? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Absolutely. It might as well be in another world. <i>(Dolly + runs off Right to Belle. He paces the room, talking to himself.)</i> I've + got to give it up. I can't play with things like this. I've lost, I'll + take my medicine. Only a month! Gee whiz! <i>(With sudden realization.)</i> + Good-bye to my quarter of a million! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (appears in doorway, yawning).</i> Holy smoke! What's up? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> We're going away. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Where to? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I can't tell you now. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (enters Right, supporting Belle).</i> Come on, dear. Jack is + going to take us with him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> But I'm too sick to go out. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You must, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> I'm not dressed. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Get her hat and coat. Don't stop for anything else. Come on, + Belle, I'll help you. We've no time to lose. <i>(Puts arm about her and + half carries her Left.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Belle.</i> Won't you tell me what's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'm going to take you to some friends. <i>(To Dolly.)</i> + We'll find a cab. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> No, they'd trace us! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Well, we can get to the subway, I suppose. <i>(To Belle.)</i> + Dearest Belle—listen to me. I love you. And I'm going to make you + well. I've been able to get money—all we need, heaps and heaps of + it. And you're going to Florida. You'll be there in a few days—the + very place my sister went to. Perhaps she'll go with you. So come! Come! + <i>(Exit, leading Belle.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (hurries about, gathering Belle's wraps and her own).</i> Where's + your coat, boy? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Ain't got none. Say! What's this about Florida? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> I don't know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse tryin' to cheer up Belle? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly (gathering up her belongings in great haste).</i> Maybe so. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Youse runnin' from that landlady? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Don't ask me now. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Well, there's somethin' wrong, I know! Youse can't fool me! + <i>(Looks about.)</i> Gee! I thought I had a home! And now I'm movin' out + of it! <i>(The lights fade slowly on the Play-play and rise on the + Real-play.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in a whisper).</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (low).</i> Oh, Will! That's the real stuff! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You like it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (with intensity).</i> Yes, I do! It's real, it's true. Will, I + think it'll go! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You do? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes, even with Broadway! It made me cry—and I'm a + hardened old sinner. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh, dearest, I'm so glad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I'm proud of you, Will! <i>(Rises and puts her arms about + him.)</i> We've got a real Pot-boiler! <i>(Sound of bell in Real-play + Left. Play-play vanishes. Full light on the Real-play. A post-man's + whistle off Left.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> The post-man! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (leaping up).</i> Maybe it's a check for the poem! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, yes! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Where's the key to the letter-box? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (runs Right).</i> Here, I think. <i>(Searches about.)</i> Here! + <i>(Brings him key.)</i> Be quick! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (exit Left).</i> I'll be quick! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (As Bill tosses and calls aloud in his sleep, goes to his bed, + kneels and soothes him).</i> Oh, my baby! My baby! You're not going to be + sick! No, no, I can't stand that! Anything but that! I'll have to give it + up! Will must give up trying to be a writer, and get some sort of paying + job. Or I'll have to go on the stage again, and earn some real money——<i>(Hearing + Will returning, she leaps up and runs Left.)</i> Was it the check? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (enters).</i> Yes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> For how much? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in a voice of agony).</i> <i>Guess</i> how much? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Tell me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Two-fifty. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Two-fifty! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Two dollars and a half! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Great God! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (furiously).</i> How do they expect a poet to live on two dollars + and a half for a poem? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (hysterically).</i> They don't expect poets to live! They don't + care anything about poets! Poets are cheap! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (catches her by the arm, stares at her).</i> Peggy! Peggy! This + play has got to succeed! It's got to succeed! People have got to like it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, Will. I hope they like it! I could get them by the + throats and choke them until they promise to like it! I could fall down + upon my knees and beg them to like it! <i>(To audience, with intensity.)</i> + <i>Don't</i> you like it? Don't you like it? Tell us that you like it! + Tell us! + </p> + <h3> + CURTAIN. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ACT IV. + </h2> + <p> + <i>(SCENE—The attic, the following afternoon. Scene of the Play-play + is the drawing room, as in Act I.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>At rise: The Real-play, showing Will busy working on his Mss., Left. + Peggy Right, putting Bill to sleep.</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Now, Mr. Bill, you're going to have a nice nap. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I feel better. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I'm so glad to hear it. And Will's most through with his + play, and then he'll take you to the park. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Say, Peggy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Now, go to sleep. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> But say! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Well? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I think I'm hungry. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> There's nothing in the house, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> No bread, Peggy? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> No, but we'll get some when you wake up. <i>(Goes Left and + sits by Will. Silence, while he works over papers. He is pale and haggard; + she watches him anxiously.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will. (Leans on hands.)</i> Oh, dear. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Tired, Will? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I'm getting a beastly headache. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will, you know you oughtn't to work when your stomach has + quit like this. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Hang my stomach! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But, dear— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Why do authors have to have stomachs? They're never of any + use. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Listen, Will. You can't do good work when you're so tired. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I can do good work! You'll see it's good. I've nearly + finished the fourth act now. Come, read it—and forget about my + stomach. <i>(She moves over to him. The Play-play begins to appear.)</i> + The scene is Dad's drawing-room again. Jessie is there; she's worrying + about Jack, and Bob is trying to comfort her. <i>(Full light on + Play-play.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> He's all right, Jessie. Anybody'd think he'd gone to war! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> He was never away for so long before. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Don't I seem a fairly healthy specimen, Jessie? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> I suppose so, Bob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Well, I've done what he's doing. I've done it for a year. And + I survived. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But you knew how, Bob. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I didn't when I started. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> It snowed last night; I lay awake till daybreak worrying + about him. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> My dear girl, men have got snow on their clothes before this. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> He's been gone a month! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Listen, Jessie! You know there's misery and suffering in the + world, don't you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Yes, I suppose so. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> And could you wish Jack to live all his life in indifference + to such things—just idle and play, and spend the wealth that other + people produce for him? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie. (Clenching her hands.)</i> Oh, if he'd only come home! <i>(The + telephone rings.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I'll answer it. <i>(Goes to phone.)</i> Hello. <i>(A pause; + then exclaims.)</i> Why, what's happened? <i>(Another pause; he turns to + Jessie.)</i> It's Jack! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (leaps up.)</i> Jack! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Ssh. <i>(In phone.)</i> Yes, what's that? What's the matter? + Well, I declare! Sure, Jessie's here. Yes, Dad's upstairs. No, I won't + tell him. Perhaps he won't. Hey? In two minutes? All right! Bye-bye! <i>(Turns.)</i> + He's coming home! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Bob! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> He's around at the subway station. He'll be here in two + minutes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> But what's happened? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> He wouldn't say. Just says he gives up—he's coming home. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Thank Heaven! <i>(A pause.)</i> But Bob! What can it mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> It means he's lost his wager. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> I don't care! He's coming home! Jack! Jack! <i>(She dances + and claps her hands.)</i> Oh, I'm so happy! So happy! <i>(The light begins + to rise on the Real-play-enough to reveal Bill getting up from the cot. He + looks about guiltily, climbs up to a shelf after a bowl. There is a crash. + Instantly the Play-play vanishes.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will. (Starting.)</i> What's that? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy. (Leaps up and runs Right.)</i> Bill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Boo-hoo-hoo! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I didn't go to do it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But what— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Didn't you know we were busy? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I-I was hungry! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Poor Bill! Never mind, dear! <i>(Clasps him in her arms.)</i> + There was nothing in the bowl. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I th-thought there might b-b-be. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Never mind! Poor little fellow! He was hungry! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I couldn't sleep, Peggy. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> All right, never mind. We won't scold you. It doesn't matter + about the old bowl—we've got nothing to put in it anyway. Now, don't + cry—you'll get yourself all excited. <i>(Sound of singing heard off + Right.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Oh! There's the Beggar-kid! <i>(Runs to window.)</i> Say, + Peggy! Can't I go down and listen to him? I won't go off the steps, and I + won't talk to anybody. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You're sure you feel well enough? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I'll feel better, Peggy. Please! Please! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You'll truly not go off the steps? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Word of honor, Peggy! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> All right, then. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Hooray! Now, I'll get the roses in my cheeks! <i>(exit at + door Left; Peggy closes window and sound of singing stops).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> It's a crime that child isn't in the country! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (drawing her to table).</i> What do you think of my fourth act? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why dear, it's just as I said about Act One, you need more + life in the scene, more variety and color. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But how can it be got? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I told you before—you must bring in Gladys. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Gladys at this stage of the play? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Of course! You're bringing home Belle, and you want a + character contrast—the daughter of the tenements and the princess of + the plutocracy. Gladys is still in love with Jack, and here he's coming + home with another girl! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh, Peggy, that's so cheap! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Wait, Will—let me work it out for you. I can show you + what I mean. Let me have your pencil. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (groans).</i> Go on! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> See now—it's the same scene—<i>(begins to write, + Will reading over her shoulder. Play-play begins to appear).</i> Only + Gladys is pouring tea— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Isn't that just like her! Always pouring tea! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Shut up! There's Jessie and Bob. Gladys has her very finest + society manner—she wouldn't for the world let anyone think that she + was excited by the telephone-message. <i>(full light on Play-play)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys.</i> Well, Jessie, I have had a most enjoyable evening. But I + must be going now. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> What? When Jack is coming? + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys.</i> Oh, would Jack want to see me? Surely not! No, I must + really go. <i>(rises and starts to door).</i> Good-bye! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You're not going to have her go off? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Wait! Let me write! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (rises, runs and stops Gladys).</i> No, dear! Please wait! + </p> + <p> + <i>Gladys.</i> What for? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Do a favor for me, Gladys. I know Jack still loves you. I + want you to stay here! I want you to hear it from his own lips. Let me + hide you behind this screen <i>(starts towards screen with her).</i> When + Jack comes in, I'll speak about you— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (vehemently).</i> That won't do! <i>(Gladys and Jessie stop.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> It's rotten! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But I want her to do it! <i>(Gladys and Jessie start towards + screen again.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I won't have it I say! It's undignified! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, don't be silly, Will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I say I won't have it! Let Gladys go on pouring tea! <i>(Gladys + starts towards tea table.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Let them hide, I say! <i>(Gladys starts to screen.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Stop, I say! <i>(Gladys stops, stands dazed and helpless.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why can't you give me a chance to write? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I can't stand it, I tell you! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But I want to show you how it would go. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I don't want to see it! I won't read such things! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But if I'm to have Gladys at all— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You can't have her! She's got no business in my play! <i>(He + leaps up in fury.)</i> To hell with her, I say—to hell with her! <i>(Gladys + turns and flees off with a scream; the Play-play fades.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Will, dear, <i>why</i> must you be so unreasonable? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Now see, do you want to read what I've written, or don't you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Yes, dear, of course. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Well then, drop this tomfoolery and go on! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (resignedly).</i> All right, I'll do it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We've got that scene to finish. I've got a climax that isn't + bad, I think. Jessie and Bob have just had the telephone-message. <i>(Light + begins to rise on the Play-play.)</i> Jessie's dancing with happiness, but + suddenly the thought comes to her, What will Dad say? <i>(Full light on + Play-play; Peggy and Will make secret exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (in distress).</i> Bob, do you suppose Dad will take Jack's + money from him? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> I don't know. It'll all depend. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Oh, we mustn't allow it! It would be wicked! You go + upstairs, Bob, and stay with Dad until I can find out what's happened. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob (rises).</i> A good idea! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Maybe I'll have to hide Jack until we can break the news. + <i>(As she speaks Dad appears in the doorway behind her.)</i> You see, + Bob, we must handle him carefully—he's an old man and he's liable to + fly off, and we can't tell what he might do in a sudden rage. He's not + really responsible, you know. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (stepping forward).</i> What's this? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (starting).</i> Oh, Dad! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> What's this you're trying to keep from me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Why—it wasn't from you, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Who was it from, hey? Answer me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Why—Dad— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (raging).</i> So I'm not really responsible! You have to handle me + carefully, do you? What is it? Out with it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Why Dad—it's nothing— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I know better. Out with it! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Really, Dad— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Answer me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Why Dad—it's only that I've spent some money. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Spent some money! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> I've been buying clothes, and I was afraid when you saw the + bills— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Where are the bills? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> I'll show them to you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Where are they? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Upstairs. Please don't scold me too much, Dad. <i>(Starts + to lead him off.)</i> You see, I didn't realize at the time— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I know. That's always the way with my children. They never + realize anything! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> It isn't so bad—<i>(The front door bell rings, she + starts.)</i> Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Nothing. Come on! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Wait till I see what this is. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> It's nothing, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> How do you know it's nothing? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> I want to show you the bills. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Well, wait just a moment. The bills won't run away. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (aside to Bob).</i> Lost! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Why, what's that? Isn't that Jack's voice? Why-why-good God! + <i>(Jack appears in doorway, with Belle on His arm, Dolly and Bill behind + him. All stare.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (staggers to chair with Belle).</i> Excuse me, please. <i>(He + proceeds to loosen Belle's coat, tears away her collar. She is half + fainting.)</i> Get me a glass of wine! Quick! <i>(Bob obeys.)</i> A fan, + somebody! <i>(Jessie seizes a newspaper and hands it to him. Dolly kneels + at Belle's other side.)</i> She'll be all right in a moment—she's + exhausted. Ah! Better? <i>(He rises and speaks swiftly, intensely.)</i> + You see what's the matter. The girl is ill; she's nearly dying. I had to + get help for her. <i>(To Bob.)</i> You must excuse me, old man. I had to + give up the wager. This was too much for me. You see—<i>(Hesitates.)</i> + I guess you were right. I ran into the reality of life, and it floored me. + You may kid me all you please, I'll take my medicine. But there was this + girl—I had to come back, you see. <i>(To Dad.)</i> Excuse me, Dad, + for making such a mess of it. But I couldn't punish this girl for my sins. + I had to give up my quarter of a million, and save her life. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> What's the matter with the girl? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> She's been worked to death. Standing on her feet in a + restaurant fourteen hours a day. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> And you see, Jessie—I remembered how you'd gone to + Florida and got well. <i>(To the others.)</i> Look at the difference! Look + at the contrast between them. That was what knocked me out—I + couldn't get away from it. I've got to send this girl to Florida and give + her the same chance that Jessie had. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Who is she? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> She was a waitress. She helped me when I was starving. And + now I have to help her. She's as good as gold, Jessie, and you must be + kind to her. It wasn't fair that she should die, just because I'd been an + idler, a good for nothing! Bob—you'll be satisfied when you know + what a lesson I've had. You can't imagine how I feel, coming out of it—it's + like escaping from a nightmare! I can't quite believe it's over. <i>(He + stands staring before him).</i> And then I think—I've brought her + out with me, but how many others I left behind me! Tens of thousands of + others, down there in a pit! Belle, look at me! It was a bad dream, and + now it's over! Here's my sister—see! She was as sick as you, and + now, how well she is! Look at her cheeks—touch her—take her + hand. And you shall be like that, you shall start for Florida right away! + Can't you believe it, Dolly? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> It seems to me we've got some explanation coming to us, + Jack. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Oh, I forgot. This is my sister. This is Dolly, Belle's + sister, and this is Bill—a little news-boy who helped me when I was + down and out. + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Good evenin', ladies and gents. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> It was some kind of joke you played on us, Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> It was a wager I had made. I went out to shift for myself and + see how I'd get along. I wasn't playing any joke on you, Dolly. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> It was a pretty poor joke on Belle, I think. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> How do you mean? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> You promised you'd marry her! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> What! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Marry her! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> That's what he told her. Didn't you, Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Why—I— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> It's all right, Jack—since's we've caught on in time. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> No, no, don't misunderstand me. It was just that I didn't + want to tell my family just yet. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (starting forward).</i> Why, you infernal jackass! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Dad— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> You have the impudence to come here and tell me that you + promised to marry a waitress in a restaurant! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> Yes, Dad—- + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (raging).</i> Are you mad? When you've just proven that you can't + earn enough to fill your own belly? You come here whining for forgiveness, + and then tell me you'll marry a girl of the streets— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Dad! Stop! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Excuse me, Jack—we'll get out of this. <i>(Rises.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> No—wait! Please, Dad— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Let her go! There's no place for her here. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Come, Belle, <i>(Lifts her.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (Hysterically).</i> Dad, how can you be so cruel? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Keep out of this, Jessie. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> If they go, I go too, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Go, and good riddance to you. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> If I go, I'll never return. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Has anybody asked you to? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Wait a minute, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Let me alone, Bob. I'll attend to this. + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (rushing to Jack).</i> Jack! Jack! Wait! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dolly.</i> Come on, Belle! This is no place for us! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> I'll take her myself. <i>(Exits left with Belle).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> Jack! Dad doesn't know what he's saying! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Who says I don't know what I'm saying? Who says I'm not + responsible for my own acts? Who says I have to be handled carefully? I'll + have you all understand— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (clutching Dad).</i> Don't you see the girl's nearly dead? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> I'll get out too <i>(To Dad.)</i> Say Mister—<i>(Dad + stares at him).</i> You're worse'n my stepfather! <i>(Exit with Dolly).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (hysterically).</i> Dad! Dad! I beg you—have mercy. <i>(Flings + herself sobing upon him).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Really, Dad, you're treating him pretty badly! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I haven't asked your opinion, sir! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Well, I guess I'll go with him! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> As you please, sir! <i>(Bob exit. The Play-play begins to + fade).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in low voice).</i> That's as far as I've done. <i>(A pause.)</i> + It's near the end. What do you think of it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Pegyy.</i> Why, Will, you know what I told you before— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in a voice of despair).</i> That it's all wrong! That I don't + know how to write a play. That I've got to do it all over! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I never said that, Will. But I told you that you couldn't + put an audience through all those harrowing adventures, and then pile an + unhappy ending on top. You simply can't get away with such a proposition. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But surely, I can't have this play end happily! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Where's the law to prevent you? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> The law of truth prevents me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What do you mean? Couldn't Dad forgive Jack? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> No! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Because Dad hasn't forgiven me. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> But Will, there are plenty of other Dads—and they + aren't all so heartless. You'll simply have to choose another father for + this play. You can't write for your own satisfaction—you've got to + think about the box-office. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (leaping up and flinging out his hands).</i> Oh, my God! The + box-office! Have I got to slaughter my artistic instincts to feed the + greed of a box-office? For God's sake, Peggy, take this play and write it + to suit the taste of Broadway! Or shall I tear up the darned stuff? <i>(Seizes + Mss.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (interfering).</i> Will! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I've got a play written, and you come and tell me to write + another. And when I take it to the manager, he'll tell me to write a + third. And his wife will read it, and I'll have to write a fourth! And + then there's the stage-manager—perhaps he has a wife too! Who else, + for the love of Mike? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (laughing).</i> Why there's the star, and the leading lady—in + this case you've got two actresses fighting for precedence, tearing each + other's eyes out over the question of dressing-rooms. Then there's the + press agent and the property-man, and the dramatic editors of a dozen + newspapers, who'll tell you next morning exactly why your play fell flat. + <i>(Puts her arms about him.)</i> Will, dear, don't be so impatient. Try + to understand what I mean! Such a frightfully depressing ending—everybody + in the play has lost everything! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But that isn't so! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Jack has lost his wager, and his quarter of a million + dollars—and his home! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But see what he's gained. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> In the first place wisdom, and in the second a wife. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Few people in the audience know anything about wisdom, and + everyone of them knows that he could buy a wife for less than a quarter of + a million dollars. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> That's all very well—for a funny line. But there's many + a man would give that much money to find a noble-hearted and faithful and + loving woman, who would stand by him through all the trials of his life! I + gave up more than a quarter of a million myself, and do you suppose it + ever occurs to me to regret the bargain? Do you suppose I'd be willing to + wipe you and Bill out of existence if I could get my money back? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (lays her hand, on his).</i> Will, dear, that's very sweet of + you, but it's not the same in your play. In the first place, Bill isn't + Jack's child; and then Belle is dying. You see, you've told such a + dreadful story— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (irritably).</i> Don't tell me that all over again! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Forgive me! You've got a headache, and you're worn out—we + oughtn't to try to argue now. You simply can't get this play right while + you're so over-wrought. Take a little time off, and rest and get a fresh + view of it. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> But we'll starve to death in the meantime! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> No, dear, we needn't. Let me go and get a job to tide us + over the trouble. So you can do your work without killing yourself—please, + dear, please! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in thought).</i> Listen, Peggy. If we're going to make a break, + I've thought of something better. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> What is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I'll go and see Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Oh, Will, you couldn't do that! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I've been thinking about it for the last three days. You see, + putting him in the play has brought him back to my thoughts. I've shown + him harsh and narrow—but still I realize that I love him. Perhaps he + can't help it if he has a bad temper; and if he's stubborn—well, + I've been as stubborn as he. I've waited all these years for him to come; + and may be it was my place to make the first move. Now he's old—he + can't last much longer; and if he died, I'd be sorry all my life that I + hadn't been more generous to him. It isn't his money—after all, he's + my father. If I have to humble myself somewhere, perhaps I ought to give + him the first chance. <i>(A pause.)</i> What do you think? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> I don't know, Will. It couldn't do any harm, I suppose. <i>(A + pause).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (pounds suddenly on door Left).</i> Let me in! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (leaps up).</i> What's the matter? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (rushes in).</i> Oh! Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will and Peggy.</i> What is it? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> A man tried to kidnap me! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will and Peggy.</i> <i>What?</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> Tried to—to take me away! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Bill! + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> An old man—in an automobile! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> You don't mean it, Bill? + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> He got out and asked my name. Then he asked me if I'd like to + go for a ride. I remembered what you'd told me about kidnappers. So I ran + upstairs. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (staring at Will).</i> Do you suppose it could be— + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I'll go and see. <i>(The bell rings Left; He stops).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill.</i> It's the old man! He's after me! <i>(Shrinks behind, Peggy).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> We'll see. <i>(Opens door. Dad stands in entrance).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bill (whispers).</i> The old man! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (enters without a word; looks about).</i> Well, young fellow! So + this is where you live! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (in a low voice).</i> Yes, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> And this is the woman? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> And the boy? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Yes, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Humph! <i>(A pause.)</i> Did it never occur to you I might + like to see my grandson? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> I—I didn't know, Dad. <i>(A pause).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (in a breaking voice).</i> Well, now you've forced me to humble + myself, what have you got to say to me? + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (starting).</i> Oh, Dad! Forgive me! + </p> + <p> + <i>(Seizes his hands).</i> Dad, I'm ashamed of myself! I was coming to you + to-day. Honestly I was! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (returning to his gruff manner).</i> Well, young fellow, I'm glad + to hear you've learned a little sense, at least! How've you been making + out? Not very well, I judge. + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Not at all well, Dad. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Humph! Too proud to tell me, hey? The woman looks pale; and + the child too. <i>(To Bill.)</i> Come here, youngster. So this is my + grandson! <i>(To Will.)</i> It's all very well for you to make war on your + old father and break his pride; but you'd no right to use your child like + this. <i>(Looks at Mss. on table.)</i> What's this! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> It's Will's manuscript. A play. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> So that's what he is doing, instead of taking care of his wife + and child? <i>(Punches Mss. with his cane and scatters it in every + direction over the floor).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Will.</i> Oh! + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Don't do that! We have so much trouble keeping it straight + anyway. <i>(Gathers up Mss. and replaces it on table).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> What's in the thing? Let me look at it. <i>(Starts to examine + it).</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (in sudden alarm).</i> No, no! + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> Hey? Why not? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Not yet. Wait—Will has to revise it. You see—<i>(She + laughs.)</i> He's got his local color wrong again. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (gazing from one to the other).</i> What's the joke? + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> You see, Dad—Will's been having a hard time, and it's + made him pessimistic. He's written a play, and he was ruining it with an + unhappy ending. But now—oh, now it has a happy ending! It'll be a + success! <i>(Rushes to Will.)</i> Oh, Will, I see just how it goes! I've + got the very words! Let me write them, while they're fresh in my mind! + (Runs to table, takes pencil and paper.) + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> But what— + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> Wait! Wait! Excuse us, please! It's so important! Here, Bill—take + your grandfather! Take him up on the roof and let him see the view! Take + him downstairs and let the beggar-kid sing for him! I want just ten + minutes to get this down! <i>(Pushes Dad and Bill off Left.)</i> Just ten + minutes, please! <i>(Shuts them out.)</i> Now, Will, come here! You see + how it is now! Dad has relented, your happy ending is all ready made! + You're not making any concession to the box-office—you're simply + following truth—the natural human instincts of a father, who loves + his son, in spite of all his mistakes and his own bad temper! He orders + him out—but all the time his heart is breaking—he's eager for + an excuse to relent. Oh, Will, you must see that! + </p> + <p> + <i>Will (reluctantly).</i> Yes, I suppose so. + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy.</i> All right then! We go back to your scene in Dad's + drawing-room—just after Jack has carried Belle out. <i>(Play-play + begins to appear.)</i> Dad stands there, with Jessie clinging to him, + weeping, imploring. And Bob is trying to argue with him. Dad doesn't + answer at first—wait, I'll write the scene! <i>(Full light on + Play-play. Will makes secret exit.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Bob.</i> Dad, listen to reason now! Don't make this dreadful mistake. + Jack has had his lesson. Can't you see he's had it—the very thing we + all wanted for him? He's learned something about the reality of life! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie (to Bob).</i> Make Jack wait! Don't let him go away! Hurry! <i>(Bob + exit.)</i> Dad, you must forgive him! That's a good girl he's brought here—can't + you see that? And she's ill—she's as ill as I was! Don't you + remember how you worried about me? You aren't really cruel, Dad— + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> I don't want to be cruel. But I won't have him— + </p> + <p> + <i>Jessie.</i> You must forgive him, Dad! <i>(Jack appears in doorway, + with Bob, Dolly and Bill behind him.)</i> Jack! Come ask him to forgive + you! He's your father! You must do it, to save the girl's life! + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack (advances).</i> Don't misunderstand me, Dad. I don't ask for the + money. I've lost my claim to it, I don't care what you do with it. But I + must save this girl! Don't you see what's happened to me? Don't you see + what I've gained by my adventure? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad.</i> What have you gained? + </p> + <p> + <i>Jack.</i> In the first place wisdom! In the second a wife—a + noble-hearted and faithful and loving woman, who will stand by me through + all the trials of my life! Isn't that worth more than a quarter of a + million dollars? Answer me, Dad—<i>(Stretches out his arms to him.)</i> + Oh, Dad, isn't it so? + </p> + <p> + <i>Dad (gruffly).</i> Well, young fellow, I'm glad to hear you've learned + a little sense, at least! <i>(He embraces Jack.)</i> + </p> + <p> + <i>Peggy (leaping to her feet and pointing to the Play-play scene).</i> + There! There! There's your happy ending! There's your Pot-boiler! + </p> + <h3> + CURTAIN. + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0006" id="link2H_4_0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + POSTSCRIPT + </h2> + <p> + In connection with this play there is a story which should be told, for + reasons which will be revealed in the telling. + </p> + <p> + "The Pot-boiler" was written in 1912, and entered for copyright in + February, 1913. I took the manuscript to a friend, Edwin Bjorkman, editor + of the "Modern Drama Series," and the most widely read student of dramatic + literature known to me; also to Edgar Selwyn and Margaret Mayo, who knew + thoroughly the contemporary stage. These friends confirmed me in my belief + that I had hit upon that rare phenomenon—an entirely new idea to the + stage. There are many examples of the "play within a play," but up to that + time there had never been a play which showed the WRITING of a play: the + processes which go on in the mind of a playwright, and how he uses his + personal experiences in his work. + </p> + <p> + "The Pot-boiler" was accepted for production by William Harris, Jr., at + the Hudson Theatre, New York. After many delays, Mr. Harris came to the + conclusion that the play needed some rewriting to give it that "punch" + which is essential to production in the neighborhood of Broadway. He + sought to interest a certain well-known playwright, who will be here + designated as Mr. X, in the idea of collaborating with me on the play. Mr. + X read the manuscript and offered to collaborate on condition that two + changes should be made: first, the play should be changed from a + "shirt-sleeve play" to a "dress-suit play"—that is, the characters + should be rich people; and second, the last act should be located in a + manager's office, and show the acceptance of the play. As I did not care + for these suggestions, Mr. X dropped the matter, and Mr. Harris allowed + his rights in the play to lapse. + </p> + <p> + A year or so later, happening into Mr. Harris' office in the Hudson + Theatre, he asked me with a smile, "Have you seen your play?" And when I + asked what he meant, he added. "They have put it on downstairs." Needless + to say, I purchased a ticket for the performance, and saw a play which + differed from my play in two essentials—these being precisely the + modifications which Mr. X had tried to persuade me to make! + </p> + <p> + The new play was announced as the work of two playrights, whom I will + indicate as Smith and Brown; it was produced by a firm of managers, whom I + will indicate as Jones and Robinson. I went to see Messrs. Jones and + Robinson, who assured me they had never even heard of my play. While I was + in the office, Mr. Smith, one of the playwrights, sought an interview with + me, and assured me that he also had never heard of my play, his work was + absolutely original. I gave him the names of various persons who had read + my play, including Mr. X; and Mr. Smith assured me earnestly that he was a + stranger to all of them. I accepted his statement; but as I was on my way + out of the office of Messrs. Jones and Robinson, I beheld the name of Mr. + X printed upon one of the doors of their private rooms, and upon inquiry I + learned that Mr. X was employed on a regular salary as a play-reviser for + this firm! + </p> + <p> + I went away pondering the situation. What I was asked to believe was as + follows: Mr. Smith had composed a play having all the essential features + of my new and original play, and differing only in the two modifications—these + being the very same two modifications which Mr. X had urged me to make in + my play. Mr. Smith had taken this play to the firm which employed Mr. X, + and this firm had accepted the play and produced it, without Mr. X, their + chief play-reviser, ever seeing it—or else without his mentioning + that it was my play, with the two modifications in my play which he had + recommended. The play had been taken to the Hudson Theatre, owned by + William Harris, Jr., who had accepted my play and submitted it to Mr. X, + and the play had actually been produced at this theatre for nearly a week + without either authors or managers ever hearing of my play! + </p> + <p> + I may be unduly suspicious, but I could not credit this peculiar chain of + coincidences. I took the matter to the Author's League, whose executive + committee read my play, saw the other play, and agreed that I had cause + for inquiry. Mr. Louis Joseph Vance, representing the league, undertook to + interview Mr. X, who was an intimate friend of his, and sent Mr. X a + telegram asking for an appointment. Mr. X did not answer. Mr. Vance + assured me that this was the first time the gentleman had ever failed to + reply to such a request from him. Subsequently, Mr. Vance made an + appointment to meet Mr. X at luncheon, and hear his explanation of the + matter; but Mr. X failed to keep the appointment. I went ahead with plans + for a law-suit, whereupon Messrs. Jones and Robinson withdrew their play. + </p> + <p> + My reasons for telling the story are two. First, I think it well that + would-be playwrights should have some idea what they may encounter when + they venture into the jungles of Broadway; and second, because critics and + play-goers who saw the play of Smith and Brown will wish to know which + play was written first. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Pot Boiler, by Upton Sinclair + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE POT BOILER *** + +***** This file should be named 5806-h.htm or 5806-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/5/8/0/5806/ + + +Text file produced by Charles Aldarondo and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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