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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..65bed36 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #60523 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/60523) diff --git a/old/60523-0.txt b/old/60523-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4835e3a..0000000 --- a/old/60523-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,7432 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Torch-Bearers, by George Kelly - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll -have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using -this ebook. - - - -Title: The Torch-Bearers - A Satirical Comedy in Three Acts - -Author: George Kelly - -Release Date: October 19, 2019 [EBook #60523] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TORCH-BEARERS *** - - - - -Produced by Tim Lindell, David E. Brown, Buley Library -(Southern Connecticut State University) and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -book was produced from images made available by the -HathiTrust Digital Library.) - - - - - - - - - -THE TORCH-BEARERS - - - - - “There will be actresses when husbands are a thing of the past.” - - --_Mrs. Pampinelli._ - - - - - THE TORCH-BEARERS - - _A Satirical Comedy - in_ - THREE ACTS - - - _By_ GEORGE KELLY - - [Illustration] - - _Preface by_ - KENNETH MACGOWAN - - - [Illustration] - - - NEW YORK - AMERICAN LIBRARY SERVICE - 1923 - - - - - _Copyright 1923_ - AMERICAN LIBRARY SERVICE - _All Rights Reserved._ - - - - -“The Torch-Bearers,” by George Kelly, was presented by Stewart and -French for the first time on any stage at the Savoy Theatre, Asbury -Park, New Jersey, on the night of Monday, August 14, 1922, with the -following cast: - - - MR. FREDERICK RITTER MR. ARTHUR SHAW - MR. HUXLEY HOSSEFROSSE MR. DOUGLAS GARDEN - MR. SPINDLER MR. EDWARD REESE - MR. RALPH TWILLER MR. BOOTH HOWARD - TEDDY SPEARING MR. WILLIAM CASTLE - MR. STAGE MANAGER MR. J. A. CURTIS - MRS. PAULA RITTER MISS MARY BOLAND - MRS. J. DURO PAMPINELLI MISS ALISON SKIPWORTH - MRS. NELLY FELL MISS HELEN LOWELL - MISS FLORENCE MCCRICKETT MISS ROSE MARY KING - MRS. CLARA SHEPPARD MISS DAISY ATHERTON - JENNY MISS MARY GILDEA - -Play staged by the Author - - - NOTE-- - - The form of the present manuscript is exactly that in which this play - was presented during its run at the Vanderbilt Theatre, New York - City, New York. - - --_The Author._ - - - - - THE TORCH-BEARERS - - - CAST - - MR. FREDERICK RITTER - MR. HUXLEY HOSSEFROSSE - MR. SPINDLER - MR. RALPH TWILLER - TEDDY SPEARING - MR. STAGE MANAGER - MRS. PAULA RITTER (_Ritter’s wife_) - MRS. J. DURO PAMPINELLI - MRS. NELLY FELL - MISS FLORENCE MCCRICKETT - MRS. CLARA SHEPPARD - JENNY (_a housemaid at Ritter’s_) - - - SCENE - - ACT I--A kind of drawing-room in the home of Frederick Ritter, on an - evening in October, about 8 o’clock. - - ACT II--Behind the scenes at Horticultural Hall, the following - evening at 8:30. - - ACT III--The drawing-room at Ritter’s, two hours later. - - - - -Stage, screen and amateur rights for the production of this play -are controlled by the author, George Kelly, 3665 Midvale Avenue, -Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. No public readings or performances may be -given without his written consent. - - - - -PREFACE - - -I cannot remember if it was one of those torrid and terrible nights of -August when the chain-gang of New York’s critics was tolled off to the -Forty-Eighth Street Theatre for the première of _The Torch-Bearers_. -But I do know that the general atmosphere of oppression--physical, -mental, professional--was a little denser than usual. In the first -twenty-eight days of August, 1922, managements too daring or too -resourceless to wait for September had deluged us with a steady stream -of inanity, and here was another dousing in prospect. If it wasn’t -the heat, it was certainly the humidity of theatrical August. Unknown -play, new producers, author’s name vaguely connected with vaudeville; -altogether a production so little esteemed by the booking powers that -it had to slip into a few weeks before the Equity Players began their -season at this theatre. It could have been a night of Elysian coolness, -and still we would have been expecting the worst. It could have been -mid-April, and still we should have found an almost ineffable freshness -in the breeze of George Kelly’s little comedy. - -The cold, historical fact is that at about 9:15 o’clock on the evening -of August 29th, 1922, five or six hundred average New Yorkers, two or -three hundred friends of the management, and about fifty sophisticated -first-nighters were in grave danger of rolling off their seats in -hysteria because of _The Torch-Bearers_. - -The intermissions were filled with three questions which more or less -concern the reader of the published play. Who was George Kelly? Where -did he get the comedy? How would it go? - -On August 29th, 1922, George Kelly was a perfectly good Philadelphian -in his late twenties who was much better known to vaudeville than to -fame. He had written, directed, and played in about a dozen one-act -comedies and dramas on Keith and Orpheum time. He had begun by quitting -his family’s private tutor to try acting in a playlet by the late Paul -Armstrong. Then--with no more preparation, apparently--he had begun -to write his own vehicles. A certain drama in France absorbed his -attentions for a while. After that more “sketches”--as the vaudeville -powers call any effort above vocal or bodily acrobatics--and suddenly a -play. - -The origin of _The Torch-Bearers_ was simple enough. Kelly wrote the -kind of tight, effective short plays that amateur actors and little -theatre directors are always looking for. He had a perfectly good -Philadelphia family behind him. And so he was being invited to lunch -every now and then by the Pampinellis of the cities in which he played. -To hear them was enough. They had to live a wider life. - -_The Torch-Bearers_ passed a prosperous term on Broadway, and I think -it will go far in the little theatres which it satirizes. But upon the -opening night I remember much dubious debate about its chances. We -had laughed ourselves almost literally sick, and at the end of the -second intermission we had not yet seen the rather prosy last act. -Yet--conscious of our personal superiority--we wondered.... Brander -Matthews and Aristotle would scoff at it, George M. Cohan and Professor -Baker would scowl. _The Torch-Bearers_ broke all the rules, and it had -no plot. Obviously, by all the rules, it ought to fail. - -There may be a good many reasons why it didn’t, and some may lead you -far into aesthetic explorations of the present breakdown of dramatic -form all over the world. But the reader will find more cogent reasons -in the pages that follow this introduction. Personally, I should put -it down to the fact that the character-study of the first act and the -hokum of the second are irresistible. We have all met our Pampinellis, -and we have all seen the lady prompter take a curtain call, or had -our mustache fall off in the big scene. We can never resist some -characterization on the stage, and as for such hokum as this record of -all the mishaps of the amateur actor, ill luck is the heart of broad -comedy and when ill luck comes where it is most painful--in personal -display--Cassandra herself must smile. - -There were other things to make the death-watch wonder whether _The -Torch Bearers_ could live. It was satire. Satire is not ordinarily a -popular commodity in the theatre. It defeats sympathy, and sympathy is -necessary to emotion, and emotion to theatrical success. - -Satire has had its great moments, however, in the history of the drama. -Aristophanes made merry over the fashions, foibles, and philosophies of -Athens. Satire was Molière’s stock in trade. Shaw has done very well by -poking a finger at society. Every nation has at least one outstanding -theatrical satire to its credit. But for the war, the wise of Paris -might still be laughing at the French Academy because of de Flers and -de Caillavet’s _L’Habit Vert_. England has _The School for Scandal_, -as Ireland has _The Playboy_ and _John Bull’s Other Island_. Germany, -though a little heavy in the theatre, can still point to Schnitzler’s -_Literature_. - -Just at the moment America is beginning to display a surprising -fondness for theatrical satire. Beginning is hardly the word, perhaps, -for the first American drama, _The Contrast_, lampooned society with -a large “S”; _Fashion_, our first play by a woman, spoke out smartly -against the smart world, and from _Our American Cousin_ down to date, -so many of our playwrights have spoofed the alien and the aristocratic -for the benefit of the homespun, that it is only by a hair that I can -risk the statement that it is a “surprising fondness” which we now -display for satire. America has always enjoyed its irreverent moments -in the theatre, but it has seldom gone in for whole plays devoted to -almost nothing but lampooning. - -In the last three seasons, however, the distinctly satirical play has -climbed noticeably in favour. In 1919-20 there was nothing of the -kind to be seen on Broadway. In 1920-21 came Porter Emerson Browne’s -Mexican melodrama, _The Bad Man_, with most of its success due to sly -digs at both sides of the international line, and George M. Cohan’s -joke at the expense of audiences as well as playwrights, _The Tavern_. -Last season, playgoers good-humoredly made a satire out of the deadly -serious absurdities of the British melodrama, _Bulldog Drummond_; the -_Chauve-Souris_ twitted Russian drama a little--in Russian; and the -firm of Kaufman and Connelly began in _Dulcy_ and _To the Ladies!_ to -vend biting wit at the expense of scenario writers and advertisers, -efficiency experts and after-dinner speakers. - -This season a perfect flood of satire broke upon us, most of it very -good indeed, and some of it destined to be successful with a large -public. Besides _The Torch-Bearers_, there have been _R. U. R._, grim -sarcasm upon labour and capital, and a new bill of the _Chauve-Souris_, -the Kaufman-Connelly version of Henry Leon Wilson’s _Merton of the -Movies_, _Six Characters in Search of an Author_, from the Italian, and -_The World We Live In_, the insect comedy from the Czecho-Slovak. - -The future of _The Torch-Bearers_, now that its Broadway career is -over, brings us up against the little theatre movement. I am very much -in favor of that odd and amazing phenomenon. I believe a great deal of -the promise of the American stage outside New York and a surprising -amount of its present accomplishment in that metropolis, is due to the -uncontrollable desire of people not so very unlike Mrs. Pampinelli to -produce plays. Kelly’s satire touches the lower fringes of what Mrs. -P. calls “the movement,” but it might be directed at Maurice Browne, -Sam Hume, and Irving Pichel and the little theatre would still go on, -and _The Torch-Bearers_ would become--as I am sure it will--one of the -most popular pieces in the repertory of the amateur actor. Many a Mrs. -Pampinelli, safe in the sense of her own self-importance, will do for -_The Torch-Bearers_ all that Mrs. P. did--which is, as Kelly observes, -to “tell the players where to go on the stage, so they won’t be running -into each other.” - -But there is art in this play--not mere observation--and I am afraid -none of the Pampinellis who are to be concerned with its future will -ever quite equal the person that the author and Alison Skipworth, -the actress, created between them. I do not look for any moment so -extraordinary as when Mrs. Pampinelli, discussing the fatalities -invariably connected with these amateur performances, reaches her -peroration: “We are not dismayed; we have the lessons of history to -fortify us: for whenever the torch of essential culture has been -raised, (_she raises the lead-pencil as though it were a torch_) there -has unfailingly been the concomitant exactment of a human life.” For -one cannot expect to find a cuckoo-clock always present with its -sapient comment at such a moment. - -The reader will find the cuckoo-clock, the satire, and the hokum -for himself. He will also detect, I think, a strain of divine and -devilish madness in Kelly which promises something of genius for -the American drama. The reader may note, too, in Kelly’s script -the kind of practical qualification for the theatre of which Mr. -Ritter speaks feelingly on page 56. This qualification has produced -extraordinarily effective humor and something else. This is a sense -for stage management. It makes Kelly a rare and precious figure in -our theatre, and gives you a script to read--or to produce--that is -liberally supplied with every bit of business and direction necessary -for putting on the play--either in the Cohoes Little Theatre or your -own imagination. - - KENNETH MACGOWAN. - - Pelham Manor, N. Y., February 25, 1923. - - - - -NOTE: The drawing-room at Ritter’s, in which the first and last -acts are laid, is a comfortable-looking room, suggestive of good -circumstance. Toward the back there is a fancy wooden partition -separating the hallway from the room proper. This partition begins -rather high up on the side walls and curves deeply down to two -ornamental columns, five feet high and set about five feet apart, -forming the entrance from the hallway to the room. Straight out through -this entrance, and paralleling the partition, is the staircase, running -up to the left and through an arched doorway. The foot of the staircase -is just to the right of the center-door; and then the hallway continues -on out to the front door. On the left, there is a passageway between -the staircase and the partition, running through an arched doorway -to the body of the house. In the room proper, breaking the angle of -the right wall and the partition, is a door, opening out, and below -this door, a casement-window. On the left, breaking the angle of -the left wall and the partition, is the mantelpiece, and below it a -door, opening out. Just inside the partition, on either side of the -center-door, is a built-in seat. - -The entire room and hallway is done in a scheme of silver and the -lighter shades of green. All the woodwork and furniture, including the -piano and mantelpiece, is finished in silver-green, and the walls and -ceiling are in blended tones of orchid, gray and green, decorated with -tapestried panel-effects. The carpet is gray-green, and the vases and -clock on the mantelpiece, as well as the little cuckoo-clock over the -door at the left, are green. The drapes on the casement-window and the -doorways, at the head of the stairs and in the left hallway, are in -rose-colored brocaded satin; and the pads on the partition-seats are -covered with the same material. The piano-throw is a garishly subdued -blend of old-rose, Nile green and canary-colored silk. - -Right out between the little wooden columns of the center-door, set -flat against the staircase, is a small console-table, holding a most -beautiful rose-colored vase filled with wisteria; and on the piano -there is a similar vase filled with white and yellow blossoms. On -either side of the console-table there is a tall torchiere with a -rose-colored shade; and the shades on the wall-lights, and the one on -the lovely rose-colored vase-lamp on the table down at the right below -the casement-window, are all rose-colored. - -There’s a brilliant array of cushions about the room, all shapes and -sizes, and every color of the rainbow,--and many books and magazines. -The piano, up at the right, is littered with music, cigarettes, in a -fancy container, flowers and candy--in a pretty box made of pink satin. - -The two arm-chairs in the room, one just to the left of the table below -the window, and the other at the left side of the table over at the -left, are over-stuffed in green-and-silver brocade. - -There is a small table below the piano, with a light little chair -beside it, the left side, and there is a similar chair over at the -extreme left, below the door. - -The keyboard of the piano parallels the right wall, with enough room, -of course, between the piano-stool and wall to permit of easy use -of the door. There must also be room enough above the piano for a -passageway between it and the partition-seat. - -The rights and lefts employed in the foregoing descriptions are, of -course, the player’s rights and lefts. - - - - -ACT ONE. - - -_After a slight pause, a door out at the right is heard to close, and -immediately Mr. Ritter comes along the hallway beyond the partition -and into the room. He is a brisk, rather stocky type of man, in his -early forties, wearing a brown suit and overcoat, a derby hat, and -carrying a suit-case. He sets the suit-case down on the partition-seat -at the right, and, with a glance around the room, at the unusual -arrangement of the furniture, starts out into the hallway again, -removing his gloves and overcoat. He glances along the hallway to the -left and up the stairs as he goes. Jenny comes along the hallway from -the left carrying a small, light chair. As she is about to come into -the drawing-room proper from the hallway, she becomes conscious of Mr. -Ritter out at the hall-rack at the right. She stops and peers in that -direction. She is a pleasant little English person, plump and trim, -dressed in the regulation parlor-maid’s black and white._ - -JENNY. Is that you, Mr. Ritter? - -RITTER. That’s who it is, Jenny! How are you? - -JENNY. [_Bringing the little chair forward and placing it above the -little table at the left_] Pretty well, thanks, Mr. Ritter, how are -_you_? - -RITTER. [_Coming along the hallway from the right_] I’m whatever you -are, Jenny. [_Jenny gives a faint little laugh and proceeds with her -arrangements, and Ritter picks up several telegrams from the stand in -the hallway, just to the left of the center entrance._] - -JENNY. Ain’t you back a bit soon? - -RITTER. [_Coming forward to the small table at the right, below the -piano_] Yes, I thought I’d have to go down to Cincinnati for a week or -two, but I didn’t. - -JENNY. Mrs. Ritter ain’t expectin’ you, is she? - -RITTER. [_Glancing thru the telegrams_] No, she isn’t, Jenny. - -JENNY. I thought I didn’t remember hearin’ her sayin’ nothin’. - -RITTER. Where is she? - -JENNY. [_Starting for the hallway_] She’s upstairs, sir, I’ll call her. - -RITTER. [_With a glance at the furniture_] What are you doing around -here, Jenny, housecleaning? - -JENNY. [_Turning and coming back_] No, sir, there’s a rehearsal here -tonight. [_Ritter stops reading and looks at her quizzically for a -second._] - -RITTER. What kind of a rehearsal? - -JENNY. Why, a rehearsal for a show that Mrs. Ritter’s takin’ part in -tomorrow night. They done it at the Civic Club the week after you went -away, and they liked it so well they’re doin’ it again tomorrow night. - -RITTER. _Who_ liked it? - -JENNY. Sir? - -RITTER. I say, who liked it so well that they’re doing it again? - -JENNY. Why, everybody seemed to like it, Mr. Ritter, from what the -papers said. - -RITTER. What kind of a show is it? - -JENNY. Why, I think it’s a tragedy, from what I gather. - -RITTER. Did you see it, Jenny? - -JENNY. No, sir, _I_ didn’t get to see it, I’m sorry to say; but I heard -everybody connected with it sayin’ it was a _great success_. [_Ritter -resumes his telegrams, then looks at Jenny suddenly._] - -RITTER. How did Mrs. Ritter get into it? - -JENNY. Why, I think somebody died, Mr. Ritter, if I’m not mistaken. - -RITTER. [_Shaking his head conclusively, and resuming his telegram_] I -assumed it was an extremity of _some_ kind. - -MRS. R. [_At the top of the stairs at the back_] Fred Ritter! don’t -tell me that’s you down there! [_Jenny turns quickly and goes to the -foot of the stairs._] - -RITTER. No, I’m still out in Chicago! - -MRS. R. Is it, Jenny? - -JENNY. Yes, mam, I was just comin’ to tell you. - -MRS. R. [_Starting down the stairs_] I _thought_ I heard his voice! -[_Jenny laughs._] I’ve been standing up here for the last _five_ -minutes saying to myself, “Who can that _be_ that has a voice so -much like Fred’s!” [_Coming into the room from the hallway_] Why, -Fred, darling, what are you doing here! [_He has moved up towards the -center-door._] - -RITTER. [_Laughing a little_] How is the old kid! [_Kisses her_] - -MRS. R. I thought you wouldn’t be back till the first! [_Jenny passes -along the hallway to the left._] - -RITTER. Why, that Cincinnati thing’s been postponed till after -Thanksgiving. - -MRS. R. [_Turning away from him and stepping out into the hallway -again_] Well, why didn’t you wire or something? - -RITTER. I was afraid of giving you a shock. - -MRS. R. Oh, Jenny! - -RITTER. You’re such a frail little flower. - -MRS. R. [_Turning back to him_] Now stop, Fred! I’ve really lost a lot -since you went away. - -RITTER. How do you know? [_Jenny comes along the hallway from the -left._] - -MRS. R. Why, my dear, I can tell by my clothes. [_She turns to Jenny._] -Jenny, will you get me a glass of water, please. - -JENNY. [_Starting out_] Yes, mam. - -RITTER. You’re not going to faint, are you? - -MRS. R. [_Turning back to him again with a flip of her hand at him_] -No, I’m not. - -RITTER. [_Slipping his arm around her waist and coming forward_] Any -mail here for me? - -MRS. R. Not a single thing, Fred; I sent everything right on to -Chicago as soon as it came: there must be several letters there for you -now. - -RITTER. [_Disengaging himself and taking her hands and looking at her_] -I’ll get them all right. How have you been treating yourself while I’ve -been away? - -MRS. R. All right; only I’m glad to see you back. - -RITTER. Kiss me. - -MRS. R. The house seemed awfully lonesome. - -RITTER. Kiss me. [_She kisses him._] - -MRS. R. [_Passing above him to the piano at the right_] Crazy thing. -[_He moves over to the little table at the left, rummaging in his -pocket for a cigar, and Mrs. Ritter commences to rummage in a -sewing-basket on the piano. This basket is Mrs. Ritter at a glance, all -green and yellow satin, fraught with meaningless bows and weird-looking -knots. She undoubtedly made it herself, and it must have taken her -months. But she’s a practical woman; at least she thinks she is; and -the sewing-basket helps in a way to sustain the conviction. Poor Paula! -As one looks at her and listens to her he appreciates the fortune of -the circumstance that there is some sane and capable person between her -and the world; and as he more closely observes the sewing-basket, he -rejoices in the blessing of the sane and capable person’s ability to -spare her the necessity of having to make her own clothes. Although, -as a matter of fact, she would look lovely in anything; for Paula -is pretty--charmingly so. And her hair is marvelous. So gold--and -satiny. She is wearing a dress now of lime-green silk with a standing -collar edged with black fur, and gold-colored slippers._] Did you have -anything to eat, Fred? - -RITTER. Yes, I ate on the train. What’s this Jenny was saying? -Something about a show you’re in? - -MRS. R. Oh,--[_Looking at him_] did she tell you? - -RITTER. I wondered what had happened to the furniture when I came in. - -MRS. R. [_Coming around and forward towards the little table below the -piano_] Yes, there’s a rehearsal here tonight. We have it every Tuesday -and Thursday. Of course, it’s just to run over the lines, because we’ve -done it already at the Civic Club on the fourteenth. And, my dear, it -was perfectly marvelous. - -RITTER. What kind of a show is it? - -MRS. R. [_Standing back of the table_] Oh, it’s just a one-act -play,--in one act, you know. And it was really _quite_ wonderful. [_She -gives an inane laugh._] I had no idea. [_She touches her hair and turns -towards the back of the room again._] - -RITTER. How did _you_ happen to get into it? [_Jenny comes along the -hallway from the left carrying a glass of water on a small tray._] - -MRS. R. [_Turning to him_] Well now, wait till I tell you--[_She sees -Jenny._] Oh, thanks, Jenny. [_Jenny starts out again._] Jenny, will you -go to the top of the stairs and see if I left the lights burning in my -room. - -JENNY. [_Turning and starting towards the foot of the stairs in the -right hallway; and setting the tray on the little stand as she goes_] -Yes, mam. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Coming forward holding the glass of water_] I think I -did. [_She sips._] - -JENNY. [_As she crosses the center-door_] Do you want that suit-case -taken up, Mr. Ritter? [_Mrs. Ritter turns round to the right and -watches Jenny._] - -RITTER. Yes, you can take it up if you will, Jenny, thanks. [_Jenny -lifts the suit-case from the partition-seat and goes out and up the -stairs._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to Ritter_] You know, I wrote you about poor -Jimmy Sheppard-- - -RITTER. Yes, what was that, had he been sick? - -MRS. RITTER. Why, not a day, my dear! that’s the reason it was all so -dreadful. Of course, he’d always had more or less of a weak heart; but -nothing to threaten anything of that kind. And just three days before -the performance, mind you:--couldn’t happen any other time. And _poor_ -Mrs. Sheppard playing one of the _leading_ parts. [_She turns to her -left and goes up to the center-door, where she looks out toward the -right hallway expectantly._] - -RITTER. [_Casually depositing the band from his cigar on the tray at -his left_] Did he _know_ she was to play one of the leading parts? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning at the center-door and looking at him_] -Who,--Mr. Sheppard? - -RITTER. Yes. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Coming forward again_] Why, of course he did--She’d -just finished telling him when he fell over. [_Ritter appears to be -unduly occupied with his cigar, and Mrs. Ritter takes advantage of the -circumstance to refresh herself with another sip from the glass._] My -dear, poor Clara Sheppard is a _wreck_--You want to write her a note, -Fred, when you get time. And he never spoke--not a solitary word. But, -she says--just as he was dying,--he gave her the funniest look. Oh, she -says--if she lives to be a thousand, she’ll _never_ forget the way he -looked at her. [_She goes up to the center-door and sets the glass down -on the tray._] - -RITTER. [_Still busy with his cigar_] Had he ever seen her act? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to him, thoughtfully_] _I_ don’t know,--whether -he ever had or not. [_Jenny comes down the stairs._] Oh, yes he had, -too! for I saw him myself at the Century Drawing Rooms last Easter -Monday night, and she was in that play there that night, you remember. -[_She moves to the piano and starts looking for something in the -sewing-basket; he moves to the mantelpiece, up at the left, apparently -looking for a match._] - -RITTER. No, I wasn’t there. - -MRS. R. Oh, weren’t you! I thought you were. - -RITTER. No. [_He feels in his pockets._] - -MRS. R. There are matches there on that little table there, Fred. [_She -indicates the table below the mantelpiece._] - -RITTER. [_Discovering some in his pocket_] I have some here. [_He moves -to the arm-chair at the left of table and sits down._] - -MRS. R. [_As Jenny passes along the hallway towards the left_] Oh, -Jenny! - -JENNY. Yes, mam? - -MRS. R. Jenny, will you ask Mrs. Brock if she’ll make some of that -drink that she made the last time? - -JENNY. I think she ’as made it already, Mrs. Ritter. - -MRS. R. Well, will you see, Jenny, please? - -JENNY. [_Starting away_] Yes, mam. - -MRS. R. [_To Ritter_] The folks liked it so much the last time. [_She -picks up her sewing-basket._] - -JENNY. All right, Mrs. Ritter. [_She disappears at the left._] - -MRS. R. [_Stepping out into the hallway_] Oh, and, Jenny! - -JENNY. [_Out at the left_] Yes, mam? - -MRS. R. Tell her to put a little of that _gin_ in it, the way she did -before. - -JENNY. All right, mam. - -MRS. R. Tell her she’ll find some gin in the little buffet in the big -dining-room. - -RITTER. She probably knows where it is. - -MRS. R. [_Coming forward carrying her sewing-basket_] Well, anyway, -that’s how I happened to get into it. [_She sits on the chair at the -left of the small table below the piano._] Mrs. Pampinelli called me -up the first thing in the morning, and she said-- - -RITTER. Is she in it, too? - -MRS. R. [_Looking up from the arrangement of a couple of strips of lace -which she has taken from the sewing-basket_] Who? Mrs. Pampinelli? - -RITTER. Yes. - -MRS. R. No, she doesn’t take any part; she’s just in charge of -everything. - -RITTER. That suits her better. - -MRS. R. Kind of directress, I suppose you’d call her. [_He has some -difficulty keeping his face straight._] Tells us where to go, you -know, on the stage,--so we won’t be running into each other. [_Ritter -laughs._] Really, Fred, you have no idea how easy it is to run into -somebody on the stage. You’ve got to know where you’re going every time -you move. [_He laughs louder._] Why, what are you laughing at? - -RITTER. I was just thinking of a few of the things I’ve heard Mrs. -Pampinelli called. - -MRS. R. [_Looking over at him reproachfully_] Oh--now, that isn’t a bit -nice of you, Fred Ritter. I know you don’t like her. - -RITTER. I like her all right. - -MRS. R. No, you do not, now, Fred,--so _don’t_ say you do. - -RITTER. I think she’s marvelous. - -MRS. R. Well, she’s tremendously clever at this stage business, I don’t -care what you say. You just ought to hear her talk about it sometime. -Now, the last rehearsal we had,--over at her house,--she spoke on -“Technique in Acting as Distinguished from Method;” and you’ve no idea -how interesting it was. [_Ritter glances over at her as he deposits -some ashes from his cigar on the little table-tray._] - -RITTER. You say you’ve given this show before? - -MRS. R. Oh yes! We gave it on the fourteenth at the Civic Club. And, my -dear, that audience just loved it. And you’d be surprised too, for it’s -a terrifically serious thing. In fact, in a way, it’s too serious--for -the general public--that’s the reason several of the people who saw it -suggested that, if we give it again, we should give a dance right after -it. [_She looks closely at her needle and Ritter looks discreetly at -the end of his cigar._] But, as Mrs. Pampinelli says, it’s an absolute -impossibility to give a dance at either the Civic Club or the Century -Drawing Rooms, so that’s how we’re giving it this time down at Hutchy -Kutchy. [_Ritter looks over at her with a quizzical squint._] - -RITTER. Where? - -MRS. R. [_Looking over at him_] Horticultural Hall--there at Broad and -Spruce, you know. - -RITTER. Yes, I know;--what did _you_ call it? - -MRS. R. Hutchy Kutchy. [_She laughs inanely._] Mrs. Pampinelli always -calls it that,--I suppose I’ve gotten into the habit too, from hearing -her. [_She gives another little laugh, then finishes with an amused -sigh._] - -RITTER. What’s the show for, a charity of some kind? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to him suddenly, and with a shade of -practicality_] It’s for the Seamen’s Institute. Kind of a refuge -for them, you know, while they’re in port; so the sailors won’t be -wandering around the streets getting into bad company. [_Ritter -disposes of more ashes, with an unusual precision, and Mrs. -Ritter resumes her sewing. Then, suddenly, she glances toward the -casement-window at the right._] It was Mrs. Pampinelli’s idea, [_She -gathers her things into the sewing-basket and gets up, swinging round -to her left and talking as she goes._] so of course she _didn’t_ want -anything to happen. [_She sets the sewing-basket down on the piano, -and, with another glance thru the window at the right, crosses to the -little table at the left where Ritter is sitting._] So she called me up -the first thing in the morning, and she said, “Paula darling, _have_ -you heard the news?” So, of course, I said “No;” because up to that -time I _hadn’t_, and, naturally, I _wasn’t_ going to say that I had. - -RITTER. Certainly _not_. - -MRS. R. “Well,” she said, “_poor_ Jimmy Sheppard has _just_ passed on.” -Well, luckily, I was sitting down at the time, or I _positively_ think -I should have passed on myself. - -RITTER. [_Raising his hand from the table as though distressed by the -extremity of her remarks_] Don’t say such things. - -MRS. R. [_Mistaking his attitude_] No, really, Fred, you’ve no idea -the _feeling_ that came over me when she said that. “Well,” I said, -“Betty, what on earth are we going to do!” Because the tickets were -all sold, you know. “Well,” she said, “Paula,--the only thing _I_ see -to do, is to have _you_ step right into Clara Sheppard’s role.” “Me!” -I said. “Yes,” she said; “you are the only person in _my_ opinion who -is qualified to play the part.” “But, my dear,” I said, “I’ve never -stepped on a stage in my _life_!” “That is absolutely inconsequential,” -she said, “it is entirely a matter of dramatic instinct. And,” she -said, [_She simpers a bit here and moves around from the right of the -little table where she has been standing to the back of her husband’s -chair, at the left of the table._] “_you_ have _that_--to a far -greater degree than you’ve _any_ idea of.” [_He makes a sound of dry -amusement._] No, really, Fred, everyone was saying it was a positive -tragedy that you couldn’t have been there to see me--I never forgot -myself once. [_She rests her hand on his left shoulder, and he reaches -up and takes her hand._] - -RITTER. What are you going to do now, become an actress? - -MRS. R. No, but it surprised me so, the way everybody enthused; because -I didn’t think I’d done anything so extraordinary--I just walked -onto the stage, and said what I’d been told to say, and walked off -again. [_She emphasizes this last phrase by an indefinite gesture -of nonchalance in the direction of the door at her left._] And yet -everybody seemed to think it was wonderful. Why, Nelly Fell said she’d -never seen even a _professional actress_ so absolutely unconscious. -[_He makes a sound of amusement._] Really, Fred, you ought to have -heard them. Why, they said if they didn’t know, they never in the -_world_ would have believed that it was my first offense. - -RITTER. You mustn’t believe everything these women tell you; they’ll -tell you anything to get their names in the paper. - -MRS. R. Well, it wasn’t only they that said it;--people that I didn’t -even _know_ said it. Why, Mrs. Pampinelli had a letter from a woman -away out at Glenside that happened to see the performance, and she said -that, at times, my repose was _positively_ uncanny. And the papers -simply raved; especially “The Evening Breeze.” I have it upstairs, I -must show it to you. It said that it didn’t understand _how_ I had -escaped the public eye so long. [_She glances at the cuckoo-clock -over the door at the left, and, in doing so, notices a book that has -been left lying on the chair below the door: she steps over and picks -it up._] I was awfully sorry you couldn’t have been there, Fred. I -was going to write you about it when Mrs. Pampinelli first spoke to -me about going on, but there was so little time, you see. And then, -I didn’t think you’d mind;--especially on account of its being for -charity. [_He is very carefully putting ashes on the little tray. She -stands holding the book, looking at him. And there is a slight pause._] -You _don’t_ mind my going on, do you, Fred? - -RITTER. [_Rather slowly_] No,--I don’t mind, if you’re able to get away -with it. - -MRS. R. [_Trailing across back of his chair_] I didn’t think you would. - -RITTER. [_Raising his hand from the table quietly_] But a--[_She comes -to a stop and regards him over her left shoulder._] I don’t want any of -these women exploiting you for their own vanity. [_She doesn’t quite -encompass his meaning, and stands looking at him for a second. Then she -abstractedly lays the book down on the table beside him. There is a -very definite ring at the front door-bell._] I guess that’s some of the -people. [_She starts towards the hallway._] - -RITTER. [_Preparing to rise_] Where do you do this thing, here? - -MRS. R. [_Turning to him and indicating the general arrangement_] -Yes--just the way we have it fixed. - -RITTER. [_Rising briskly and crossing to the table below the piano -at the right, while Mrs. R. continues to the center-door and stands -looking toward the front door. Jenny appears in the left hallway._] I -think I’ll beat it upstairs. - -MRS. R. [_Turning to Jenny_] I guess that’s some of the people, Jenny. -[_She comes forward towards Ritter again._] - -JENNY. Yes, mam. [_She passes back of Mrs. Ritter and along out into -the right hallway to answer the door._] - -MRS. R. Won’t you wait and see the rehearsal, Fred? [_He is gathering -up the telegrams from the table, where he left them earlier._] - -RITTER. [_Turning and going up towards the center-door, thrusting the -telegrams into his inside pocket_] No, I think I’d rather wait and see -the show. [_He passes her, to her left._] - -MRS. R. [_Turning and trailing up towards the center-door after him_] -It’s really _very_ interesting. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Out at the front door_] You see how considerate I -am of you, Jenny, letting myself in? [_Mr. and Mrs. Ritter stop in the -center-door and look toward the front door._] - -JENNY. [_At the front door_] Oh, that’s all right, Mrs. Pampinelli. - -MRS. R. [_Turning quickly to Ritter at her left_] You can’t go up now, -Fred, she’ll see you. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and RITTER, together. - - MRS. P. Well, I daresay you’ll have to open this door quite often - enough tonight without my troubling you. - - RITTER. [_Coming back into the room with a slight gesture of - annoyance_] I don’t want to have to listen to her gab. [_He goes over - to the mantelpiece at the left and takes up his position there, while - Mrs. Ritter, with a movement to him to be silent, drifts down beside - the piano at the right._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming into view from the right hallway_] Well, I -suppose I’m still the shining example of punctuality. [_She sweeps -thru the center-door, carrying a large black-bear muff, a fan of black -ostrich-plumes, and a note-book and pencil._] How do you do, Mr. -Ritter,--[_She goes towards Mrs. Ritter._] - -RITTER. [_Nodding_] How do you do. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I’m glad to see you. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Moving towards Mrs. P._] Hello, Betty. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Hello, Paula child,--[_Kisses her_] how are you, -dear? [_Mr. Spindler hurries in from the right hallway, carrying -several books. Mrs. P. steps to the table below the piano._] Will you -give those things to Mrs. Ritter, Mr. Spindler, she’ll set them down -somewhere. [_She sets her own encumbrances down on the table, and Mrs. -Ritter passes back of her to Spindler._] - -SPINDLER. [_Standing in the middle of the room, toward the back_] -Certainly, certainly. - -MRS. RITTER. Good evening, Mr. Spindler. - -SPINDLER. Good evening, good evening. [_Jenny comes in from the right -hallway, takes the tray and glass from the hall table, and goes out the -left hallway._] - -MRS. RITTER. I’ll just take these. - -SPINDLER. [_Giving her the books and a manuscript_] If you please. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Crossing directly to Ritter_] Florence McCrickett -told me you were back; she saw you getting into a taxicab at the -station. [_Giving him her hand_] I’m glad to see you. - -RITTER. I just got in. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And I suppose you’ve already heard about the great -event? - -RITTER. Yes, she’s just been telling me. [_They laugh together._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, my dear, you may count that day lost that -you missed it. [_She half turns to Mrs. Ritter, who is engaged in -conversation with Spindler._] Mayn’t he, Paula? [_But Paula hasn’t -heard what she’s been saying, so she just looks at her and gives an -inane little laugh. Mrs. Pampinelli continues to Ritter._] Although -you’ll have an opportunity tomorrow night; unless you’re going to run -away again before that. - -RITTER. No, I’ll be here now till after Thanksgiving. [_Mrs. Ritter -leaves Spindler and goes over to a small table at the extreme right, -below the casement-window, where she sets the books and manuscript -down._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning from Ritter and crossing back again to the -table at the right below the piano_] Wonderful! Did you hear that, -Paula? - -MRS. R. What is it, dear? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Ritter says he will be here for the performance -tomorrow night. - -MRS. R. Yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Unfastening her fur neckpiece_] So you will have -an opportunity after all of revealing to him what gems of talent the -unfathomed caves of matrimony bear. [_They both laugh._] - -MRS. R. [_Picking up Mrs. Pampinelli’s muff from the table and taking -the neckpiece_] I’ll just take these, Betty. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Settling her beads_] Anywhere at all, dear. [_Mrs. -R. starts to the right._] Oh, and by the way, Paula--[_Mrs. Ritter -stops and turns to her._] - -MRS. R. Yes? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Indicating the books on the table below the window_] -There’s a remarkable article in one of those books I brought, on -a--gesture. - -MRS. R. [_Looking at the books_] Yes? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. The little gray book I think it is, if I’m not -mistaken. [_She turns to her left and acknowledges Mr. Spindler with a -touch of state._] Mr. Spindler--[_He returns a smiling and very snappy -little bow._] brought it to my attention,--[_She turns back again -to Paula, who has gone up at the right of the piano and is putting -the furs on the partition-seat, while Spindler, becoming suddenly -conscious that Ritter is looking at him, stiffens abruptly, glances at -Ritter, and turns back again to Mrs. Pampinelli._] and it really is -remarkable. So many of my own ideas--things that I have been advocating -for years. I brought it especially for _you_, Paula,--so you must read -it when you have time. [_She picks up her lead-pencil from the little -table and, tapping it against her right temple, thinks profoundly._] -What is that wonderful line of Emerson’s that I’m so fond of--something -about our unexpressed thoughts coming back to accuse us--[_Turning to -Spindler_] You know all those things, Mr. Spindler. - -SPINDLER. [_Pedantically_] Coming back to us “with an alienated -majesty.” - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That is the one I mean. [_She turns back again to -Paula, who has, by this time, come forward again at the right of -the piano, while Mr. Spindler, again becoming conscious that Ritter -is looking at him, gives him another glance, this time with a shade -of resentment in it, and, coughing briefly, as an emphasis of his -dignity, which Ritter’s general attitude somehow suggests is not being -sufficiently esteemed, turns back to Mrs. Pampinelli._] Well, that is -exactly what occurred to me when I read that article--My own thoughts -returning to me from an alienated majesty. [_She finishes her version -of the quotation to Spindler and Mr. Ritter._] Oh, by the way,--[_She -gives a little mirthless laugh._] I’m afraid I’ve neglected to -introduce Mr. Spindler [_Indicating Ritter with a very casual gesture -of her left hand, and picking up her lead-pencil from the little -table_] This is Mrs. Ritter’s husband, Mr. Spindler. [_Spindler strides -towards Ritter and extends his hand with that vigor which usually -characterizes the greetings of unimportant persons._] - -SPINDLER. Glad! - -RITTER. [_Tonelessly_] How are you? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Addressing Ritter directly_] Mr. Spindler is a -young man who has made quite an exhaustive study of the Little Theatre -Movement throughout the country; [_Spindler moves back towards his -former position, and Paula, over at the right, takes a piece of fudge -from a box on the little table below the casement-window._] and is -working very hard to bring about something of the same kind here. -[_Ritter inclines his head, and Spindler listens to Mrs. Pampinelli, -wreathed in smiles._] And is going to succeed, too, aren’t you, Mr. -Spindler? - -SPINDLER. [_With a kind of pert assurance_] Never fell down on a big -job yet. [_He gives a self-conscious little laugh and glances at -Ritter, under whose coldly-appraising eye the laugh freezes instantly -into a short, hollow cough. Then he turns away._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I’m sure he has all the qualifications. - -SPINDLER. [_With a wooden smile, and saluting_] Thank you, thank you. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Hasn’t he, Paula? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Nibbling at the fudge_] Yes indeed, Mr. Spindler’s quite -indispensable. [_Spindler gives her a pert little nod, by way of -acknowledgment._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Mrs. Ritter_] I think that’s what I shall have -to call him hereafter,--[_Turning to Spindler_] the indispensable Mr. -Spindler. [_They all laugh,--a trifle more than the brilliancy of the -remark should reasonably occasion, and Mr. Spindler accounts it even -worthy a salute._] - -SPINDLER. Bouquets were falling [_Here the front door-bell gives two -sharp little staccato rings._] thick and fast. [_He starts towards the -center-door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, it’s true-- - -SPINDLER. [_Speaking directly to Mrs. Ritter_] I’ll answer it. [_He -hurries out into the right hallway._] - -MRS. P. and MRS. R., speaking together. - - MRS. P. I know I don’t know what on earth I should do without him. - - MRS. R. [_Addressing Spindler as he hurries out the hallway_] All - right, if you will, Mr. Spindler. - -SPINDLER. [_Calling back_] Sure! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. He is one of those rare persons who never forsakes one -in the hour of quotation. [_She turns to Mrs. Ritter, who is chewing -fudge at her right._] What are you eating, Paula? - -MRS. RITTER. A bit of fudge. Would you like some, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Very definitely_] No, thank you, dear. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Indicating the table below the casement-window_] There’s -some here. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Raising her hand in a gesture of finality, and -speaking with conviction_] I never eat immediately before using my -voice. And you should not, either, Paula,--particularly candy. [_She -moves across to the left to Mr. Ritter. She is an imposing woman, in -her late fifties, with a wealth of false hair, perfectly done, and a -martial bearing. She is one of those matrons who is frequently referred -to in the suburban weeklies as a “leading spirit”; and this particular -description has always so flattered Mrs. Pampinelli’s particular -vanity, that she overlooks no opportunity of justifying it: an effort -that has resulted in a certain grandeur of voice and manner; which, -rather fortunately, becomes the distinction of her person. She is -gowned in sapphire-blue velvet, close-fitting, with an independent, -triangular train, from the waist, probably four yards long. Her -necklace, comb, the buckles on her black-velvet slippers, and her -rings, are all touched with sapphire._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Looking vaguely at the fudge-box_] There’s so much of it -here. [_Jenny appears from the left hallway._] - -MRS. P. and MRS. R., speaking together. - - MRS. P. [_Coming to Ritter’s right_] Very tragic about poor Sheppard, - wasn’t it, Mr. Ritter? - - MRS. R. [_Going up to the center-door, and speaking to Jenny as she - goes_] Mr. Spindler is answering the door, Jenny, you needn’t bother. - -RITTER and JENNY, speaking together. - - RITTER. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli_] Yes, it _was_--too bad. - - JENNY. [_To Mrs. Ritter_] Oh, all right, then. [_She withdraws, and - Mrs. Ritter stands looking out into the right hallway._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I suppose Paula wrote you. - -RITTER. Yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Dear me--I don’t know when anything has so upset me. -[_Ritter stands looking at the end of his cigar and Mrs. Pampinelli -looks straight ahead._] I don’t believe I closed an eye the entire -night,--wondering where on earth I should find someone to play his -wife’s part. [_Ritter glances at her, as he places the cigar in his -mouth, and Mrs. Pampinelli looks at him quickly._] Because, of course, -you know that Mrs. Sheppard was to have played the part that Paula -plays. - -RITTER. Yes, so she told me. [_Mrs. Ritter, still nibbling at the -fudge, wanders down and stands in the middle of the room._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. But we only had three days to get someone; and it -didn’t seem possible to me that anyone could memorize that part in -that length of time. [_Mrs. Ritter touches her hair and makes a little -sound of amusement,--a kind of modest acknowledgment of the brilliancy -of her achievement._] So I thought at first--of having Clara Sheppard -go on anyway, and I should make an announcement; but, you see, Mr. -Sheppard was buried on the fourteenth, and that was the night of the -performance; and as I thought the matter over, it seemed to me that -perhaps it was just a little too much to expect of her--[_Ritter gives -her another glance._] Considering her experience as an actress, I mean. - -RITTER. [_Taking the cigar from his mouth and speaking with a shade of -deliberation_] Couldn’t she have kept his death a secret,--until after -the performance? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, I thought of that, too; [_Ritter looks -at her steadily._] but, you see, it was three days,--[_He nods, -understandingly._] and he was so very well known. [_She moves back -across the room towards the table below the piano, and Ritter stands -looking after her. Simultaneously, there is a frantic giggle from the -right hallway. Mrs. Ritter goes up to the center-door, looks in the -direction of the laughter, and waves her handkerchief, while Mrs. -Pampinelli, passing below the table, gathers up her note-book and -pencil and continues to the table below the casement-window, where she -secures the manuscript. Ritter steps forward from his position before -the mantelpiece, and disposes of some ashes on the little table-tray._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Out in the right hallway_] Paula, that’s a very dangerous -young man you have on that door tonight. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Calling to her_] I think it’s very kind of Mr. Spindler. -[_Mrs. Pampinelli comes around in front of the big arm-chair below the -casement-window._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Coming into view, with considerable flourish_] Kind! -My dear, I haven’t heard anything like it since I was twenty! [_She -gives a little wave of her gorgeous, single white ostrich-plume fan at -Mrs. Pampinelli._] Hello, Betty! [_Then to Mrs. Ritter_] How are you, -darling? - -MRS. RITTER. Hello, Nelly. [_Nelly kisses her._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Enthroning herself in the arm-chair at the right_] -Is it _really_ possible! - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning from Mrs. Ritter and hurrying through the -center-door_] You’re a sweet child! [_Extending the fan towards Mrs. -Pampinelli, and coming quickly forward to the table at the right below -the piano_] Yes, and I should have been here every night at this hour -if it weren’t for that dreadful officer up at the parkway! [_She sets -her fan and black-velvet bag on the table. Spindler comes in from -the right hallway and engages in conversation with Mrs. Ritter in -the centre-door._] He seems to take a fiendish delight in selecting -_my_ car, of all the _millions_ that pass there at this hour, to do -_this_! [_She extends her right arm and hand, after the fashion of -traffic-officers._] So I told him yesterday afternoon, I said, “Look -here, young man!” [_She points her forefinger as though reproving -the officer._] “You needn’t expect any Christmas-present from _me_ -next Christmas, for you just--won’t--get it. Not till you change your -tactics.” So he says, after this, he’s just going to let me go ahead -and run into a trolley-car;--see how I like that. [_Mrs. Pampinelli, -making marginal notes in the manuscript, laughs faintly._] “Well,” I -said, “it’d be a change, anyway,--from being stopped all the time.” -[_She abstractedly picks up her fan again._] I don’t think he likes my -chauffeur. And I don’t blame him; I don’t like him myself. He drives -too slow--[_She starts for the center-door._] He’s like an old woman. -[_She sees Ritter, peering at her, and starts abruptly._] Well, for -Mercy’s sake, Frederick Ritter, you don’t mean to tell me that’s you! - -RITTER. I was here a minute ago. - -MRS. FELL. [_Laughing flightily_] Well, I declare! I don’t know what’s -happening to my eyes! [_Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli_] I saw him standing -there, [_Turning back again and starting towards Ritter, with her hand -extended_] but I thought it was one of the other gentlemen! How are -you, dear boy? [_He takes her hand and stoops over as though to kiss -her. She turns her head away quickly._] Stop it! Frederick Ritter! -[_Mrs. Pampinelli glances over, then resumes her notes. Mrs. Fell -half-turns to Mrs. Ritter, who is still talking to Mr. Spindler up at -the center-door._] Paula!--do you see what this bad boy of yours is -doing? [_Paula just looks and laughs meaninglessly, and resumes her -conversation with Spindler._] What brought you back so soon? - -RITTER. [_Assuming the attitude and tone of a lover_] I got thinking of -you. - -MRS. FELL. [_Touching her hair_] I thought you were out in Seattle or -South Carolina or one of those funny places. - -RITTER. [_Leaning a bit closer and speaking more softly_] I couldn’t -keep away from you any longer. [_Nelly darts a swift glance at him._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Starting towards the right_] Don’t play with fire, -Frederick--[_He laughs hard. She pauses in the middle of the room and -turns and looks at him._] You know what they say about widows, and I’ve -been all kinds. [_She continues over towards Mrs. Pampinelli._] Oh, -Professor Pampinelli! [_Turning and addressing Ritter directly_] I call -her Professor, she knows so much. [_Turning back to Mrs. Pampinelli_] -Mrs. P. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Looking up suddenly_] I beg your pardon, Nelly -dear--I didn’t know you were speaking to me. - -MRS. FELL. I want to know if you can take me home in your car tonight? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Why, certainly, dear. - -MRS. FELL. My chauffeur has been deviling me for the past two days -about some boxing-bee,--or wrestling-match or something that he wants -to see; and I told him he could go if there were someone here to take -me home. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I can take you, of course. - -MRS. FELL. All right, then, I can chase him; [_She turns to the left._] -I won’t hear any more about that. Oh, Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. Yes, mam? [_Excuses himself to Mrs. Ritter, who steps into -the left hallway and beckons with her finger for Jenny._] - -MRS. FELL. Would you mind doing a favor for a very old lady? - -SPINDLER. [_Who has hurried forward and is standing in the middle of -the room, at attention._] You know what I told you out at the door? -[_Nelly gives a shriek, and giggles._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Looking coyly over Spindler’s shoulder at Ritter_] Oh, -you hear that, Frederick Ritter? You have a rival on the premises. Mr. -Spindler told me out at the door tonight,--that _my_ will was _his_ -pleasure. - -RITTER. [_Looking at the tip of his cigar_] San Juan is never dead -while Mr. Spindler lives. [_There is a general laugh._] - -SPINDLER. [_Turning to Ritter_] Say, that’s pretty good! - -MRS. FELL. Yes, I was afraid he was something of a gay deceiver. - -SPINDLER. [_Speaking directly to Mrs. Fell_] Only one way to find out. -[_Mrs. Fell laughs deprecatingly and sweeps the tip of her fan across -his nose._] - -MRS. FELL. Naughty boy. [_She giggles a little more, then becomes -practical._] Well then, I’ll tell you what you may do for me, Mr. -Spindler, if you don’t mind. [_Jenny appears in the left hallway and -Mrs. Ritter gives her an order of some sort, which appears to require -a bit of explanation._] Go out to my chauffeur, [_She turns him round -by the shoulder and they move up towards the center-door._] you’ll -probably find him asleep in the car, and tell him I said it’s all -right,--he can go along--that Mrs. Pampinelli will take me home in -_her_ car. - -SPINDLER. [_Hurrying out the right hallway_] Righto! [_Jenny -withdraws._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Standing in the center-door and calling after him_] -Like a good boy. [_She turns, to find Mrs. Ritter at her left in the -center-door. She takes her arm and they come forward._] Come in here, -Paula Ritter, and explain to me _why_ [_They stop in the middle of the -room, just above the line on which Ritter is standing._] you didn’t -tell me my--lover [_She peers around in front of Paula’s shoulder at -Ritter._] was coming back today? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Laughing faintly_] My dear, I didn’t know it myself -until twenty minutes ago. - -MRS. FELL. [_Becoming instantly rigid, and piercing Mrs. Ritter with a -look_] You don’t mean to tell me he returned unexpectedly? - -MRS. RITTER. He never even sent a wire. - -MRS. FELL. [_Moving over to the right, to the little table below the -piano_] I’m surprised at you, Frederick. I consider that the supreme -indiscretion in a husband--[_She lays her fan down on the table._] to -return unexpectedly. Isn’t it, Paula? [_She commences to unfasten her -cloak._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Moving over to help her_] I never got such a surprise in -my life. - -MRS. FELL. It has probably wrecked more perfectly good homes than -any other one thing in the calendar. [_She slips her cloak off her -shoulders, and Mrs. Ritter, who has passed back of her, takes it. It is -a flowing affair in black and silver, with voluminous kimona sleeves -edged with black fur, and a deep circular collar of silver-cloth and -fur._] - -MRS. RITTER. I love your cape, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. [_Settling her ornaments_] Do you really? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Examining it_] Beautiful. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Reaching for it_] Let me see it, Paula. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Handing it to her_] Where’s your seal, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. I thought I wouldn’t take it out this winter; I got so tired -looking at it last year. I want to have that collar and cuffs taken -off, anyway, before I wear it again;--there’s too much skunk there. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. This is perfectly gorgeous, dear. [_To Mrs. Ritter_] -Isn’t it? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Picking up Nelly’s fan from the table_] Lovely. And -isn’t this sweet? [_Mrs. Pampinelli takes the fan from Mrs. Ritter and -returns the wrap._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Charming. - -MRS. FELL. I’m so glad you like it;--I was afraid at first perhaps it -might make me look a little too much like a bride. - -RITTER. [_With mock derision_] Ha! [_Nelly snaps her head toward him -and pins him with a narrow glare._] - -MRS. FELL. Don’t be peevish, Frederick-- - -MRS. RITTER. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli, as she takes the fan from her and -replaces it on the table_] Isn’t he terrible! - -MRS. FELL. It isn’t my fault that your wife is a great actress. [_She -gives a comic nod and wink at Mrs. Ritter. Ritter laughs._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Starting towards the door up above the casement-window, -at the right, with Mrs. Fell’s cape_] Now, Fred Ritter, you just stop -that! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Never mind him, Paula--[_Paula goes out with the -cape._] He’ll probably change his tune after tomorrow night. [_Mrs. -Fell picks up her fan and commences to fan herself._] - -RITTER. [_Standing over above the table at the left, smoking_] I’m -thinking of what happened to poor Jimmy Sheppard. [_Jenny comes in at -the left hallway, carrying a small punch-bowl filled with claret, which -she sets down carefully on the little stand in the hallway. Mrs. Ritter -re-enters from the door on the right and crosses over to Jenny, whom -she assists._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Strolling across towards Ritter, fanning herself_] Oh, I -suppose it must be very difficult for the marvelous male, to suddenly -find himself obliged to bask in the reflected glory of a mere wife. -[_Mrs. Pampinelli laughs, over her notes._] For I’ve never known one -yet who was able to do it gracefully. [_She flips the tip of the fan -at Ritter’s nose. Mrs. Ritter gives Jenny a direction of some kind and -Jenny goes out again at the left hallway._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_As Mrs. Fell saunters back again across the room_] -Well, perhaps Mr. Ritter will show himself consistently _masculine_ -in this instance, and do the exceptional thing. [_Mrs. Ritter follows -Jenny out._] - -RITTER. I suppose that’s what you’d call _veiled_ sarcasm, isn’t it? -[_Mrs. Pampinelli laughs and rises._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Standing in the middle of the room_] I shouldn’t say it -was veiled at _all_. [_Moving towards the table below the piano_] I -don’t think it’s even _draped_. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Laughing still, and coming to the little table_] -Here’s the manuscript, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. [_Stepping closer to the table_] Yes, dear. - -RITTER. What are you going to do now, keep _on_ giving this show? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, not this particular one, Mr. Ritter, no; but we -are going to continue giving shows. - -RITTER. What’s the idea? - -MRS. FELL. They’re to be for different charities. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And then they will afford the boys and girls an -opportunity of developing themselves as artists. - -RITTER. What are they going to do, all go on the stage? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, hardly all of them will go;--but those that we -feel have sufficient talent we will encourage to go on, by all means. - -RITTER. Do you think Mrs. Ritter has sufficient talent? - -MRS. FELL. She’s wonderful, Fred, really. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, I should say that Paula had a very remarkable -talent. - -RITTER. Well, what will you do about _her_? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How do you mean, Mr. Ritter, what will we _do_ about -her? - -RITTER. Why, I mean,--you’d hardly encourage _her_ to go on the stage, -would you? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And why not? - -RITTER. Why, what about her home? [_Nelly Fell touches her hair and -gives Mrs. Pampinelli a look of amused impatience._] She couldn’t very -well walk away and leave that, could she? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, personally, Mr. Ritter, I have always felt that, -where it is a question of talent, one should not allow himself to be -deterred by purely personal considerations. - -MRS. FELL. She’s really awfully good, Fred! You wait till you -see--You’ll want her to go yourself. - -RITTER. [_Stepping quietly to the table at the left and disposing of -some cigar-ashes_] She’ll have to be pretty good. - -MRS. FELL. Won’t he, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, as far as that is concerned, I think that the -question of whether to be or or not to be an actress, is one that every -woman must, at some time or other in her life, decide for herself. -[_Spindler hurries in from the right hallway and down to Mrs. Fell’s -left, where he stands at attention, saluting, of course, as usual. Mr. -Spindler is full of salutes. He was in the army;--drafted ten weeks -before the armistice; and subjected throughout the long term of his -service to the dangers and exposure of a clerkship in the Personnel at -Upton. And he’s never gotten over it; being of that immature type of -mind upon which the letter of the Military makes a profound impression. -He’s a peppy person, thin and stilted,--in dinner clothes,--with sleek -hair and goggle glasses: one of that distressing student-order that is -inevitably to be found in the retinue of some Mrs. Pampinelli,--her -social status and constant championship of so-called artistic movements -affording him a legitimate indulgence of his particular weaknesses. So -he becomes a kind of lead-pencil-bearer extraordinary to her ladyship; -and her ladyship tolerates him,--for a variety of reasons; not the -least of which is his unfailing attitude of acquiescence in all her -opinions. And she has so many opinions,--and on so many different -subjects, that this feature of Mr. Spindler’s disposition is far from -inconsiderable. Then, he has a most highly developed faculty for small -correctnesses,--an especially valuable asset, in view of the enormous -amount of detail work incidental to Mrs. Pampinelli’s vast activities. -He reminds her of things, or, “brings them to her attention,” as she -puts it. For Mr. Spindler is one of those--fortunately few--people who -remembers things--word for word--even the things he’s read--And he -appears to have read most everything. And he quotes incessantly. As -Mrs. Pampinelli has already observed of him, “he is one of those rare -persons who never forsakes one in the hour of quotation.”_] Look here, -Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. Yes, dear. [_Mrs. Ritter comes in from the left hallway -carrying several punch-glasses, which she puts down on the hallway -table._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Indicating a certain line in the manuscript with -her lead-pencil_] There are a couple of little changes here on page -twelve--[_Mrs. Fell opens her lorgnon and looks at the manuscript._] I -have them marked. - -MRS. FELL. [_Becoming conscious of Spindler at her left_] Pardon me, -Betty. [_Turning to Spindler_] Did you tell him, Mr. Spindler? - -SPINDLER. Yes, mam; he’s gone on his way rejoicing. - -MRS. FELL. You’re a sweet child. - -SPINDLER. [_Snapping his salute_] Thank you. [_He does an about-face -and goes up to Mrs. Ritter,--Ritter watching him with an expression -susceptible of infinite interpretation._] - -MRS. FELL. The only man I’ve met in a long time that has made me wish I -were--ten years younger. - -RITTER. Ha! - -MRS. FELL. [_Pertly_] Outside of you, of course. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a touch of wearied impatience_] Look here, dear. - -MRS. FELL. [_Stepping quickly to the table again and re-adjusting her -lorgnon_] Yes, I beg your pardon. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You see, in this line here,--the author has employed a -defective verb in the perfect tense. [_Mrs. Fell looks suddenly at her -and then right back to the manuscript again. Ritter is watching them -closely._] Would you come here for a moment, Mr. Spindler? - -SPINDLER. Certainly, certainly. [_Excuses himself to Mrs. Ritter, with -whom he has been chatting, and comes down briskly to Mrs. Fell’s left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. If you please. - -MRS. FELL. [_Appearing to have some difficulty locating the defective -verb_] Where is that, now, that you were saying, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Indicating with the point of the pencil_] Right -there, dear. [_Nelly just looks at the spot, through her lorgnon._] -This is the point I was speaking to you about last night, Mr. Spindler. - -SPINDLER. [_Securing his goggles_] Oh, yes, yes! [_Ritter draws Mrs. -Ritter’s attention to the group down at the table. She reproves him -with a steady stare. He smiles and shakes his head hopelessly._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You see, this author has employed a defective here, in -the perfect tense. - -SPINDLER. [_Looking closely_] Ah, yes, I see. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Looking at him directly_] So I have changed it. [_He -straightens up and looks at her, and Mrs. Fell looks from one to the -other._] - -SPINDLER. A very good change. [_He nods and crosses over to the left, -passing below the table at the left. Ritter watches him until he takes -up his position just below the mantelpiece, rather ill at ease under -Ritter’s gaze._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I think so. So, if you’ll just watch that Nelly. [_She -picks up the manuscript._] - -MRS. FELL. All right, I’ll watch it. [_She reaches for her bag and -takes out a lip-stick. Jenny appears from the left hallway with a tray -of cakes, which Mrs. Ritter assists her in making room for on the hall -table._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Starting for the center-door_] I must show it to -Paula, it’s her line. [_The door-bell rings._] Paula child. [_Jenny -passes back of Mrs. Ritter and goes out into the right hallway to -answer the door-bell._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Eating a cake_] Yes, dear? [_Mrs. Pampinelli calls her -attention to the change in the manuscript. Mrs. Fell is making up -her lips down at the table below the piano. Ritter is watching her, -and Spindler is watching Ritter, and trying to assume his general -deportment._] - -RITTER. Are _you_ in the show, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. [_Without turning, and applying the lip-stick, with the aid -of the little mirror in her hand-bag_] Who, me? - -RITTER. Yes. - -MRS. FELL. [_Half-turning, and giving him a melting look_] Yes;--I play -a chicken. [_She returns to her mirror._] - -RITTER. [_Casually_] In the last act, I suppose. [_Nelly snaps her head -around and pierces him with one of her looks._] - -MRS. FELL. No, and not in the last stages, either. [_She resumes her -make-up. Nelly is forever making up. But, she does know how to do it. -Of course, she should, considering the years of her experience in the -art. For Nelly Fell’s age amounts to an achievement; one of those -attainments so absolutely undisputed that it is perfectly permissible -to refer to it in any gathering. She says she’ll “soon be sixty”; but -the short and simple annals of society record flutterings of the lady -as far back as the first term of President Grant. And she’s still -fluttering--a perennial ingenue, full of brittle moves and staccato -vocalisms. She looks like a little French marquise, so chic, and -twittery--and rich. For, of course, Nelly is wealthy--enormously so; -it would be utterly impossible to have her hair and not have money; -the feature is financial in itself; so silver-white, with a lovely -bandau of small, pale-pink leaves, tipped with diamond dewdrops; all -heightened tremendously by the creation in black velvet she is wearing. -This gown is heavily trimmed with silver, and quite sleeveless, with -two panels of the goods fastened at the waist on either side and -trailing at least a yard. She has a preference for diamonds and pearls, -obviously, for her ear-rings, dog-collar, bracelets and rings are all -of those gems, and her long, triple-string necklace is of pearls. -Altogether, Nelly is a very gorgeous little old lady--from the topmost -ringlet of her aristocratic hair, to the pearl buckles on her tiny -black-velvet slippers._] - -SPINDLER. Mrs. Fell is the official promptress. - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning her head and looking at Ritter_] I _prompt_ -everybody. [_She replaces her lip-stick in the hand-bag._] - -RITTER. Yes? - -MRS. FELL. [_Putting the hand-bag down again on the table_] As well as -lending my moral support. - -RITTER. Yes? [_Spindler laughs._] - -MRS. FELL. [_To Ritter_] You bold thing! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Coming into view from the right hallway_] Good evening, -everybody! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to him, from Mrs. Ritter, with whom she has -been discussing the change in the manuscript_] Oh, good evening, Mr. -Hossefrosse. [_They shake hands._] - -MRS. RITTER. Mr. Hossefrosse. [_Mrs. Pampinelli comes forward into the -room again, bringing the manuscript with her._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Mrs. Ritter--good evening. [_Mrs. Ritter asks him if he -will have a glass of claret and he says yes, so she proceeds to fill -him out one._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I hope the rest of the people aren’t far behind you. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Are we late? - -MRS. FELL. [_Waving to him_] Hello, Huxley. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Not very. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Hello, Nelly. How are you? [_Mrs. Ritter gives him the -claret, and he stands up at the center-door with her, drinking it. -Teddy Spearing wanders in from the right hallway._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Passing below the little table below the piano and -laying the manuscript on it_] Here’s the manuscript, Nelly. [_She -continues to the arm-chair below the casement-window, and, picking -up her note-book from the little table at her right, sits down and -commences to make notes._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Seeing Teddy Spearing, and starting towards the right -partition_] Oh, Teddy Spearing! - -TEDDY. Hello, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. [_Beckoning him with her fan_] Come here, dear, I’ve got -something to tell you. [_Teddy leans over the partition at the right -and Nelly kneels on the partition-seat and whispers something to him. -Hossefrosse and Mrs. Ritter are conversing in the center-door, Mrs. -Pampinelli is making notes down at the right, Ritter is standing over -in front of the mantelpiece, smoking, and Spindler is standing just -below him, to his left, watching him._] - -SPINDLER. [_In a sudden surge of courage, and taking a rather -nonchalant step towards Ritter_] Could you spare one of those cigars, -please? [_Ritter looks at him keenly, then reaches in his vest-pocket -for a cigar._] - -RITTER. Do you smoke? - -SPINDLER. Semi-occasionally, yes. [_Ritter hands him the cigar and he -steps nonchalantly back to his former position, Ritter keeping one eye -on him. He examines the cigar curiously, and, being apparently very -near-sighted, seems to have considerable difficulty in deciphering the -band-inscription._] - -RITTER. You can light _either_ end of it. - -SPINDLER. [_Very self-conscious_] Yes,--I was just looking at this -label here: it’s rather keen. [_He puts the cigar in his mouth, and -attempts an attitude of careless detachment._] - -RITTER. Have you got a match? - -SPINDLER. I don’t--[_As he opens his mouth to speak the cigar falls on -the floor, and he scrambles after it._] - -TEDDY. [_Laughing incredulously and turning away from Nelly_] Oh, Nelly! - -MRS. FELL. Upon my word, dear! Come here till I tell you. [_Teddy -returns to the partition and Nelly proceeds with her gossip._] - -SPINDLER. [_Straightening up, and attempting another man-of-the-world -attitude_] I don’t care to smoke just now, thank you. [_He holds the -cigar in his fingers._] - -RITTER. [_As things settle again_] You’ve been in the army, haven’t you? - -SPINDLER. [_Turning to Ritter with a suggestion of military erectness_] -Yes; I put in the better part of three months down at Upton, in the -Personnel. - -RITTER. I imagined from your salute you’d been around one of the camps. - -SPINDLER. Yes,--I was Third Lieutenant down there--[_Ritter looks at -him sharply; then Spindler turns and meets the look._] Regimental -Sergeant Major. - -RITTER. Rest. - -MRS. FELL. [_Coming away from the partition_] So I’m going to ask -him right out the very next time I meet him. [_She comes down to the -little table below the piano again. Mr. Hossefrosse comes through the -center-door towards Ritter, rubbing his hands, and Teddy moves over -towards Mrs. Ritter, who is still officiating at the punch-bowl._] - -TEDDY and HOSSEFROSSE, speaking together. - - TEDDY. [_Speaking to Mrs. Fell_] Maybe he doesn’t know it himself. - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_Addressing Ritter_] Ah, Mr. Ritter! How do you do, sir? - [_They shake hands._] - -RITTER. How do you do? - -MRS. FELL and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. FELL. Well, I’m going to find out, whether he does or not. - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_To Ritter_] Decided there was no place like home, eh? - [_He laughs, with a mirthless effusiveness._] - -RITTER. Are you in the show, too? [_Mrs. Ritter fills out a glass of -claret for Teddy._] - -MRS. FELL and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. FELL. I should say he is in it. - - HOSSEFROSSE. We’re all in it. - -MRS. FELL. He’s the leading man. [_Hossefrosse raises his right -hand toward Nelly and laughs deprecatingly._] Unfortunately, there -isn’t a place in the play where he can use that perfectly gorgeous -singing-voice of his. [_Hossefrosse is quite overcome, and crosses, -with hand extended, to Spindler._] It’s true. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Good evening, Mr. Spindler. - -SPINDLER. Good evening, good evening. [_In shifting the cigar from his -right hand to his left he drops it._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Uh! I beg your pardon! [_Mrs. Ritter laughs at something -Teddy has said to her, then hands him a glass of claret. Mr. -Hossefrosse stoops to pick up Spindler’s cigar._] - -SPINDLER. [_Stooping also, after the cigar_] That’s all right. - -HOSSEFROSSE and SPINDLER, together. - - HOSSEFROSSE. I’ll get it. [_He picks it up and hands it to Spindler._] - - SPINDLER. It isn’t lit. - -HOSSEFROSSE. There we are. - -SPINDLER. Thank you very much. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Don’t mention it. [_He crosses down to Nelly, who is -looking through the manuscript at the table below the piano._] - -TEDDY. [_Coming through the center-door and speaking to Ritter_] How do -you do, Mr. Ritter? - -RITTER. [_Shaking hands with him_] How are you? - -TEDDY. [_Nodding to Spindler_] Good evening. - -SPINDLER. Good evening, sir; good evening. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Teddy! - -TEDDY. [_Crossing towards the piano_] Yes? - -MRS. RITTER, MRS. PAMPINELLI and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. RITTER. [_Waving her handkerchief toward the right hallway_] - Hello, Florence! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Addressing Teddy_] Did you telephone that man about - those tickets? - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_Standing at Mrs. Fell’s left shoulder_] What are you - doing, Nelly? - -FLORENCE, MRS. FELL and TEDDY, together. - - FLORENCE. [_Out in the right hallway_] Am I the last? [_She hurries - into view and whispers something to Paula at the center-door which - sends Paula into a fit of laughing._] - - MRS. FELL. [_To Hossefrosse_] Making more changes. [_He crosses over - to the right in front of Nelly and sits on the piano-stool, back of - Mrs. Pampinelli._] - - TEDDY. [_Answering Mrs. Pampinelli_] Yes, I did, Mrs. - Pampinelli, he said he’d have them there all right. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Thank you so much. [_Teddy goes up and crosses above -the piano, where he engages Mr. Hossefrosse in conversation._] Hello, -Florence! [_Jenny comes into view from the right hallway._] - -FLORENCE. [_Coming straight forward from the center-door_] Am I the -last? [_The front door-bell rings again, and Jenny turns and goes back -into the right hallway again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, but you’re very close to it. How are you, dear? - -FLORENCE. Rushed like mad. [_Flipping her lynx muff_] Hello, everybody. -Hello, Nelly. [_She swings round to her left._] - -MRS. FELL. Hello, Flossie. - -FLORENCE. How do you do, Mr. Spindler? [_Hossefrosse gets up and -whispers something to Mrs. Pampinelli, in which she agrees._] - -SPINDLER. How do you do? [_Ritter bows very graciously to Florence, and -Mrs. Ritter comes forward to her husband’s right, eating a piece of -cake._] - -FLORENCE. [_Extending the muff at arms-length at Ritter_] No, I don’t -speak to you at all. [_She removes her stole._] - -RITTER. What’s the matter? - -FLORENCE. Paula, did you know your husband is becoming very snooty? -[_Hossefrosse resumes his seat on the piano-stool._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Sliding her hand through Ritter’s right arm_] Why didn’t -you speak to Florence at the station today, Fred? - -RITTER. I didn’t see you today. - -FLORENCE. Well, my dear, you _must_ be getting old; for Irene Colter -and I did everything but stand on our heads to attract your attention. -[_On the last word of this sentence she flips one of the tails of -the stole at him, and he ducks, as though afraid of getting hurt._] -Where shall I put these, Paula? [_Mrs. Pampinelli rises quietly from -her chair at the right, and, lost in thought, proceeds slowly and -majestically across in front of Mrs. Fell to the middle of the room, -tapping her lead-pencil on the note-book._] - -MRS. RITTER. I’ll take them. [_She takes the muff and stole from -Florence and goes up and out into the right hallway with them._] - -FLORENCE. [_Espying Teddy up back of the piano, shading his eyes with -his hand, as though trying to see her from a great distance_] Hello, -Teddy dear! [_Goes towards him_] What are you doing away back here in -the corner? [_She makes a sudden move as though to tickle him in the -ribs, but he laughs and jumps away. Mrs. Pampinelli has by this time -reached the center of the room, where she stands turning from side -to side in a profound indecision as to the relationship of certain -positions. She indicates her line of thought by divers pointings and -flippings of the lead-pencil. Ritter watches her with narrow amusement; -and, presently, Mrs. Fell, who is still occupied with the manuscript -at the little table, looks up, distracted by the gyrations of the -lead-pencil._] - -MRS. FELL. What’s the matter, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I was just wondering about a little piece of business -here. - -SPINDLER. [_Stepping to the back of the arm-chair at the left and -leaning over it towards Mrs. Pampinelli_] Can I help you, Mrs. P.? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Without turning to him_] No, thank you; it’s -purely technical. [_He resumes his position at the left corner of -the mantelpiece and glances at Ritter, who is obliged to use his -handkerchief to hide his amusement. Mrs. Ritter comes in through the -door at the right, above the piano._] - -MRS. FELL. Betty, did I tell you I saw Clara Sheppard today? [_But Mrs. -Pampinelli is still deep in technical profundities, and simply silences -her with a gesture of her right hand._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Coming forward at the right of the piano_] Where did you -see her, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. Darlington’s, at the mourning counter. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming suddenly out of her abstraction, and turning -to Mrs. Fell_] Is she going in black? - -MRS. FELL. My dear, she’s _in_ it already. - -TWILLER. [_Coming in the right hallway_] Good evening! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. She’s very foolish, under the circumstances. - -MRS. FELL. That’s just what I told her today. - -TWILLER. [_Coming through the center-door and forward at the left of -the piano_] Good evening, Mrs. Ritter. - -MRS. RITTER. Good evening, Mr. Twiller. - -TWILLER. [_To Hossefrosse, casually_] Huxley. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Shifting from the piano-stool to the arm-chair, which -Mrs. Pampinelli has just vacated, and proceeding to study his part, -which he has taken from his pocket_] Hello, Ralph. - -MRS. FELL. Hello, Ralph. - -TWILLER. Nelly! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Still in the middle of the room_] You’re the ten -o’clock scholar again tonight, Mr. Twiller. [_Jenny crosses from the -right hallway to the left, and goes out._] - -TWILLER. I’m awfully sorry, Mrs. P., really; but the fates seem to be -against me. [_Teddy gives a little whistle at him. He turns and sees -him, standing with Florence, up back of the piano._] Hello, Teddy! -[_He goes towards him, and Teddy shoots at him with his thumb and -forefinger, by way of reply. Florence smiles and extends her left arm -and hand towards him._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and TWILLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Moving over from the middle of the room to the left - of Mrs. Fell, who is still at the table below the piano_] What was - that you were saying, Nelly, about Clara Sheppard? - - TWILLER. Flossie, dear, I didn’t see you two up here! [_He takes - Florence’s hand and kisses it. Then he crosses to the left and shakes - hands with Ritter; then over to Spindler, and then starts back towards - Florence, at the piano. As he passes Ritter, Ritter taps him on the - right shoulder; he turns, and Ritter asks him something. He replies, - and they stand chatting for a moment; then Ritter indicates the - partition-seat behind them and they sit down, to talk it over._] - -MRS. FELL. Why, I simply told her--I said, “Don’t be spectacular, dear; -it’ll only make it more difficult for you when you want to marry again. -And,” I said, “you probably _will_ marry again,”--[_Spindler sits on the -chair below the door at the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Of course she will. - -MRS. FELL. “For you’re a comparatively young woman. So,” I said, “just -get through the next few months as undramatically as possible. [_Jenny -enters in the left hallway and takes empty glasses off._] I know he -was your _first_ husband, and all that; but, after all,” I said, “he -was _only_ your husband: it isn’t as though you’d lost someone who was -very _close_ to you”--[_She turns her head and speaks directly to Mrs. -Pampinelli._] Like one of your own people, [_Turning to Mrs. Ritter, -who is standing at her right_] or something like that, I mean. “And,” I -said, “another thing, darling,--_always remember_--he’d have very soon -put another in _your_ place if it had been you.” [_She finishes the -remark to Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Knowingly, and with conviction_] I should say he -would. - -MRS. FELL. [_Reaching for her hand-bag_] And I felt like saying, “And I -could give you the names and addresses right now of _several_ that he -would have put in your place _long ago_, only for the law.” - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a shade of confidence_] She must have known it. - -MRS. FELL. [_Reflecting the tone_] Of _course_, she knew it. [_Florence -leaves Teddy, up at the piano, and crosses to Ritter and Twiller, to -show them a piece of music. They rise, and she indicates a certain -point on the sheet; then she continues down to Spindler, who rises at -her approach, and shows it to him._] - -MRS. RITTER. How is she, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. My dear, she looks a perfect wreck. [_Florence sits on the -arm of the arm-chair at the left and Spindler resumes the little chair -below the left door, and drawing it a bit closer to the arm-chair. He -appears to be telling Florence something very interesting._] - -MRS. RITTER. Poor soul. - -MRS. FELL. She says no one will _ever_ know how she feels--about losing -that part. And she says she simply cannot _wait_ until tomorrow night, -[_She turns to Mrs. Pampinelli._] to see Paula’s interpretation of it. -[_Mrs. Ritter gives an inane little laugh, and Mrs. Fell turns quickly -to her._] She’s heard so much about it. [_Jenny comes in from the left -hallway again with fresh glasses. She sets them down on the hallway -table and proceeds to arrange them._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Is she coming to the performance tomorrow night? - -MRS. FELL. She says she’ll see that performance, if she has to disguise -herself. - -MRS. RITTER. Doesn’t that sound just like her? [_Nelly nods agreement._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes,--she’s so full of dramatic instinct. - -MRS. FELL. [_With a touch of bitterness_] He never appreciated it -though. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. My dear, has _any_ artist _ever_ been adequately -appreciated? - -MRS. RITTER. I understand he was very heavily insured. - -MRS. FELL. Oh, yes! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. She _seemed_ very optimistic when I spoke to her on -the telephone. - -MRS. FELL. I believe your husband’s company had him insured for quite a -lot, didn’t they, Paula? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Lowering her tone_] I believe they did, Nelly,--but I -couldn’t say for just how much. - -MRS. FELL. [_Quietly detaching herself_] I must find that out. [_She -passes back of Mrs. Pampinelli and across towards Ritter. Mrs. Ritter -and Mrs. Pampinelli continue in conversation._] Frederick, I want to -ask you something. [_He steps forward, excusing himself to Twiller._] -Pardon me, Ralph. - -TWILLER. That’s all right, Nelly. [_He crosses again to Teddy._] - -MRS. FELL. Frederick, what did you think when you heard Jimmy Sheppard -was dead? - -RITTER. Why, I thought he was dead, of course. [_Mrs. Ritter leaves -Mrs. Pampinelli, passing back of her, and goes up to assist Jenny with -her arrangements. Mrs. Pampinelli busies herself with making notations -on the margin of the manuscript, at the little table._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Flipping the tip of her fan in his face_] Oh, did -you, Smarty! [_Ritter raises his right hand, as though to ward off -the blow._] Well, listen, Frederick. [_He attends, and she becomes -confidential._] He left quite a bit of insurance, didn’t he? - -RITTER. Yes--about three hundred thousand, I believe. - -MRS. FELL. [_Becoming generally stoney_] Is there a will, do you know? - -RITTER. I don’t know; I suppose there is. - -MRS. FELL. Well, I hope she was sharp enough to see that there is. -Because if there isn’t, you know, she’s only entitled to a third -in this state. That’s all the widow’s entitled to. And, you know, -Frederick, Clara Sheppard could never in this world get along on a bare -hundred thousand dollars; you know that as well as I do. - -RITTER. Well, she has quite a bit of money of her own, hasn’t she? - -MRS. FELL. Oh, tons of it, yes; but there’s no sense in using her -own if she can use his. [_Ritter glances at her, but she has turned -away slightly to cough, behind her fan. Jenny goes out at the left -hallway._] Was sudden, wasn’t it? - -RITTER. Yes, it was. - -MRS. FELL. We were terribly inconvenienced. Because I’d simply -_deluged_ my friends with tickets. [_Mrs. Ritter is up at the -punch-bowl, sampling the punch and nibbling at the cakes._] - -RITTER. I can’t understand why you didn’t postpone the show. - -MRS. FELL. That’s what _I_ wanted to do; but Mrs. P. here was -superstitious. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Catching her name, and straightening up from the -manuscript, imperiously_] What are you saying about Mrs. P., Nelly Fell? - -MRS. FELL. Why, Frederick was wondering why we didn’t postpone the -performance when Jimmy Sheppard died,--and _I_ told him you were -superstitious about a postponement. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, Nelly, I was not superstitious, so please don’t -say that I was; I shouldn’t care to have such an impression get abroad. - -MRS. FELL. [_Touching her hair_] Well, you were something, Betty. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, Nelly, I admit that I was something,--but it -was not superstitious. I was,--[_She looks out and away off, and feels -for the word._] intuitive. [_She turns her head and looks directly -at Ritter, who drops his eyes to the tip of his cigar. Nelly Fell, -following Mrs. Pampinelli’s eyes, looks at Ritter also. Then everyone’s -eyes shift to Mrs. Pampinelli. Florence turns languidly and looks; and -Mrs. Ritter, with a glass of punch in one hand, and a small cake in the -other, moves forward, in the middle of the room, and stands looking -and listening--and chewing. Hossefrosse steps over to the table behind -which Mrs. Pampinelli is standing, and takes the manuscript,--returning -with it to the arm-chair, and becoming absorbed in a comparison of a -certain page of it with his individual part._] I have struggled so long -to inaugurate a Little Theatre Movement in this community, that I had -intuitively anticipated the occurrence of some obstacle to thwart me; -so that, when the telephone-bell rang, on the night of Mr. Sheppard’s -death, I said to myself, before I even took down the receiver, [_She -plants her lead-pencil on the table and assumes something of the aspect -of a crusader._] “_This_ is my event. Something has happened--that is -going to put my sincerity in this movement to the test. And I must -remember, as Mr. Lincoln said at Gettysburg, ‘It is better that we -should perish, than that those ideals for which we struggle should -perish.’” [_She turns her gaze in the direction of Ritter, but Mrs. -Ritter is first in the line of vision, with her eyes full of the -coast of Greenland, and her mouth full of cake. As she becomes -suddenly conscious that Mrs. Pampinelli has stopped talking and is -looking directly at her, she meets the look and breaks into an utterly -irrelevant little laugh._] - -RITTER. It’s a singular thing, but I’ve noticed that invariably there’s -a _fatality_ connected with these amateur performances. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Unfortunately, that is true, Mr. Ritter, I agree with -you. But then, we are not dismayed; we have the lessons of history -to fortify us; for whenever the torch of essential culture has been -raised, [_She raises the lead-pencil as though it were a torch._] there -has unfailingly been the concomitant exactment of a human life. [_She -stands holding the torch aloft until the little cuckoo-clock over the -door at the left cuckoos the half-hour. Ritter looks at it, and Nelly -Fell gives it a glance. Florence, too, turns and looks up. Then Mrs. -Pampinelli turns her eyes slowly upon it and withers it with a look._] -Well, children, it’s eight-thirty,--[_She gathers up her train and -tosses it across her left arm, then comes around to the right in front -of the table where she has been standing. Mrs. Ritter returns to the -table in the hallway and sets down her empty glass. Ritter goes up -after her and she fills him out a drink. Florence rises from the arm of -the chair, and, passing in front of the table at the left, goes up and -across back of the piano and out the door, at the right. As she passes -above the piano she says something to Teddy, who has come down at the -right of the piano, from his late position up near the door, and is -crossing below it. Twiller turns and goes out through the center-door -and stands leaning over the partition in the right hallway. Hossefrosse -rises, settles his clothes and clears his throat. Mr. Spindler, also, -has risen, and is replacing his chair back against the wall, below the -door._] Time we went “unto the breach” once more. - -MRS. FELL. [_Stepping forward a little to the center of the room, and -stretching her hand towards Mr. Hossefrosse_] You have my props, Huxley. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Crossing below the table, to give her the manuscript_] I -beg your pardon, Nelly; I was just looking at something here. - -MRS. FELL. Thanks. [_She pulls him towards her and whispers something._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing at the left of the little table_] Have you -my other pencil, Mr. Spindler? - -SPINDLER. [_Hurrying across towards her_] I believe you left it over -here on this little table. [_He passes below Teddy, who is just -crossing to the left, and continues on between the piano and the table -to the little table below the casement-window. Nelly Fell breaks into a -shrill giggle, pushes Hossefrosse towards the center-door, and crosses -to the left, passing below the table. She is in a violent state of -laughter. Hossefrosse goes on up to the center-door, and, excusing -himself to Ritter, who is standing there drinking, passes out into the -right hallway. Teddy comes around back of the arm-chair at the left -and sits in the arm-chair. Mrs. Pampinelli has moved to the right of -the table below the piano, where she stands reviewing her notes._] - -MRS. FELL. [_To Teddy, confidentially, as she takes up her position on -the chair below the door at the left_] I’ll tell you later. [_She sits -down._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Tapping her lead-pencil on the table and addressing -them generally_] Now, folks,--[_Ritter sets his glass on the table and -steps into the right hallway, where he converses with Twiller for a -second, then stands listening; while Mrs. Ritter hurries in and settles -herself on the partition-seat at the left and listens attentively._] -you understand, of course, that the setting will be just as it was -at the Civic Club on the fourteenth; only, of course, as you know, -the stage at Hutchy Kutchy is considerably larger. That, however, -need not concern us particularly, as the entrances and exits will be -relatively the same. [_She finishes this speech to Mr. Spindler, who -is standing at her right, waiting for her to take the lead-pencil._] -Oh, thank you, Mr. Spindler. [_She gives him the one she has--simply an -exchange of pencils, and he salutes and returns to a position below the -casement-window. Florence comes in at the right door again, wearing her -furs, and comes down at the right of the piano. Mrs. Pampinelli moves a -little towards the center-door._] Are you going to watch the rehearsal, -Mr. Ritter? - -MRS. FELL. Of course, he is! - -RITTER. [_Coming through the center-door_] If I wouldn’t be in the way. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Not at all,--very glad to have you. - -MRS. FELL. He can sit over here with the promptress. [_He crosses -towards Nelly, picking up the little chair above the table at the left, -as he passes. Hossefrosse emerges from the right hallway carrying a -light, soft hat, a cane and gloves, and stands in the center-door. -Florence steps across below the piano and asks Mrs. Pampinelli -something._] If you can behave yourself. [_Florence returns to the -corner of the piano nearest the window and drapes herself on it. She’s -a very gorgeous-looking thing, in a sleeveless gown of canary-colored -metallic silk, made quite daringly severe, to exploit the long, lithe -lines of her greyhound figure. There’s a chain-effect girdle with the -dress, of vivid jade, worn loose, and an ornament of the same jade on -the left shoulder, from which the goods falls in a plain drape down in -front of the arm to the bottom of the skirt. She has a perfect shock of -hair,--rather striking,--a kind of suspicious auburn; and she has it -bobbed. Her slippers and stockings are white._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You needn’t sit there yet, Teddy, I’m going to run -through the last scene first,-- - -TEDDY. [_Rising_] Oh, all right. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. For Mr. Hossefrosse’s lines. [_Teddy passes in front -of the table at the left and goes up to the center-door and out into -the right hallway, where he chats with Twiller and watches the -proceedings over the partition. Spindler comes over and asks Mrs. -Pampinelli something. Ritter places his chair beside Nelly’s, above it, -and sits down, assuming the attitude of a lover._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Pushing Ritter’s arm away_] Stop it, Frederick Ritter! -Paula! [_Spindler returns to his post._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Inanely_] Behave yourself, Fred. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Now, folks,--[_She moves slowly down and across -towards the table at the left._] Mr. Spindler will attend to the -various cues tonight, and at the performance tomorrow night as well. -[_Speaking directly to Nelly_] So we won’t have to bother about that. -[_Turning round to her left and addressing the others_] He will do all -the rapping. [_She raps a little._] And he has a little telephone-bell -of his own, [_She moves across again towards the back of the table at -the right._] which he has very kindly tendered the use of. Have you -that bell with you tonight, Mr. Spindler? [_He holds out a bell and -battery arrangement on a piece of wood, having taken it from his pocket -immediately she referred to it, and rings it twice._] Splendid. [_She -passes above the table and comes forward at the right of it, very -thoughtfully._] That’s splendid. [_Spindler replaces the battery._] -Now, children,--[_She crosses in front of the table._] I think, -first, I should like to take that scene at the finish, between Doctor -Arlington and his wife; [_She is standing at the left of the table, -speaking directly to Hossefrosse, who is standing in the center-door, -with his hat on, at a rather absurd angle, and holding his cane in -one hand and his gloves in the other, in a very stilted fashion. -Hossefrosse is a terribly well-fed-looking person in dinner clothes, -perhaps, thirty-eight years of age,--flamingly florid of complexion, -and with an effusiveness of manner that is probably only saved from -absolute effervescence by the ponderous counterpoise of his dignity._] -there are a few little things in there I want to correct. [_Crossing -over back of the table at the left towards Mrs. Fell_] Page eighteen or -nineteen, I think it is, Nelly. It’s the scene at the finish between -Mr. Hossefrosse and Miss McCrickett. [_Nelly looks for the place, -through her lorgnon._] Oh! [_Mrs. Pampinelli turns back to the others -again._] and one thing more I want to mention, boys and girls, before -I forget it. [_She takes a funny little coughing spell._] Pardon me. -[_She coughs again._] Oh, dear me! [_She closes her eyes tight and -shivers her head._] - -MRS. FELL. Page eighteen did you say it was, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Eighteen or nineteen, yes. It’s somewhere right in -there. - -MRS. FELL. Oh, yes, here it is, I have it. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning back to the people, and speaking with -careful emphasis_] When you are going on and off the stage, be -very careful of those little wooden strips that they have across -the bottoms of the doors, and don’t trip. [_Mrs. Ritter laughs -self-consciously and Hossefrosse leans over and says something to her. -Florence laughs, and turns and says something to Spindler, and Teddy -and Twiller laugh and look toward Mrs. Ritter._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Looking out around Mrs. Pampinelli to see Mrs. Ritter_] -Paula! [_Then she sits back, laughing, and says something to Ritter._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I really think that was what made some of you so -nervous at the Civic Club the last time. So, watch it, all of you, -for they will probably have just the same thing down at Hutchy -Kutchy.--There is perhaps nothing quite so disconcerting as to trip--as -one comes on a stage. Going off--is not so bad; but--coming on, I have -found that it requires a _tremendous_ artist to rise above it. [_She -starts down towards the table at the right, below the piano._] So, -watch it, all of you. Now, is everybody in his place? [_She stops below -the table and picks up her note-book._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Handing Ritter the manuscript and getting up suddenly_] -Oh, just one moment, Betty! [_She teeters across to the table at the -right._] I want to get my other glasses--they’re right here in my bag. -[_She picks up the bag and starts back to her place._] I beg pardon, -everybody, but I can’t tell one letter from another without these -glasses. [_This last sentence culminates in a flighty giggle, for no -reason at all, and then she sits down, and heaves a deep sigh of -amusement._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Who has been looking at her steadily_] _Now_, is -everybody ready? [_Mrs. Fell simply lifts her eyes and looks at her; -then proceeds to get her glasses out of the bag._] Use your voices, -children, and try to do it tonight just as you are going to do it -tomorrow night at Hutchy Kutchy. [_She moves a step or two nearer the -middle of the room._] Doctor Arlington is still in his office. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Rush-- - -TWILLER. [_Coming in through the center-door_] Yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Is just about to make his exit. [_He crosses above -the piano and stands waiting at the right door. He’s a bald-headed -youth, between thirty and thirty-five, in dinner clothes, excessively -well-groomed but utterly nondescript._] And Mrs. Arlington is putting -on the deadlatch. [_Florence straightens up._] All ready, now? [_She -holds up her hands for a second, then claps them once._] All right. -[_Twiller goes out through the right door and Mrs. Pampinelli moves -over towards the right, watching Florence._] - -FLORENCE. [_Pretending to put on a deadlatch_] Deadlatch. - -SPINDLER. [_Standing in rigid military fashion_] Click--click. -[_Florence turns and starts across towards the middle of the room, -passing between the piano and the table below it._] - -FLORENCE. [_Glancing toward the center-door_] You can come out now, -Clyde, they’ve gone. [_She continues to the table at the left and -stands resting one hand upon it._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Bustling forward from the center-door, removing his -hat as he comes_] Anybody here, David? [_Spindler whistles shrilly, -takes a step forward and tries to attract Hossefrosse’s attention, by -holding up his right arm and flicking his fingers at him. Teddy laughs -and turns to tell Twiller, who is just rejoining him from the right -hallway, what has happened. Florence turns and looks at Hossefrosse, -then at Mrs. Pampinelli, who is standing at the right of the table -below the piano. Mrs. Ritter gets up and simply staggers laughing -through the center-door and out to Teddy and Twiller._] - -FLORENCE. [_Speaking to Mrs. Pampinelli_] That isn’t right, is it? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Spindler at her right and holding up her -hand_] Please don’t whistle, Mr. Spindler! I can’t stand whistling. - -FLORENCE. I thought we were going to take the _last_ scene first. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and MRS. FELL, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Moving around in front of the table and going - near to Hossefrosse_] We are taking the _last_ scene _first_, Mr. - Hossefrosse, that is the _first_ scene. - - MRS. FELL. [_Holding up her hand_] Wait a moment, wait one moment, - just one moment, somebody’s off the track! [_Twiller and Teddy laugh - again and Hossefrosse turns and looks at them. Twiller shakes his - head, flips his hand at him and walks away into the right hallway, as - though deploring his stupidity. Ritter begins to laugh._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I thought I had made that sufficiently clear. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, MRS. FELL, SPINDLER and TWILLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. We are taking the scene at the finish, Mr. - Hossefrosse, between you and Miss McCrickett. - - MRS. FELL. [_Rising_] That’s the first scene, Huxley, and we are - taking the last scene, between you and Florence, on page nineteen, - right here, [_She indicates the place in the manuscript_]. - - SPINDLER. [_Addressing Teddy_] I hope he doesn’t pull anything like - that tomorrow night. [_He returns to his place below the window._] - - TWILLER. [_Coming back into view from the hallway_] Don’t weaken, - Huxley, you know what they say about a bad rehearsal. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Topping them all_] Please, children, please! - -MRS. FELL. Down at the bottom of the page. [_Mrs. Ritter comes through -the center-door again and sits down on the left partition-seat._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Speaking directly to Mrs. Fell_] Please--[_Mrs. Fell -sits down again, slowly, Mrs. Pampinelli looking at her stonily._] -Let us have one director, if you please. [_She withdraws her eyes -slowly, and Nelly darts a bitter look at her._] Now, don’t let us have -everybody talking at once; it only confuses people, and wastes a lot of -time. [_Hossefrosse stands bewildered in the middle of the room. Mrs. -Pampinelli addresses him directly, speaking with measured emphasis._] -We are taking the _last_ scene _first_, Mr. Hossefrosse: it is the -scene at the finish, between you and Miss McCrickett, just before Paula -comes on,-- - -HOSSEFROSSE. Oh, I beg your pardon! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And _after_ Mr. Rush has left the stage. - -HOSSEFROSSE. I thought we were beginning right from the beginning. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, I’d like to run through the _last_ scene _first_, -if you don’t mind; there are a few little things in it I’d like to -correct. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning and starting for the center-door_] This was the -wrong entrance for that line, anyway. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And you won’t need your hat and cane in this scene. - -HOSSEFROSSE. That’s so, too. - -TWILLER. [_Who is standing out just at the right of the center-door_] -I’ll take them, Hux. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Handing him the hat, gloves and cane_] Thanks. [_Turning -to Mrs. Ritter_] I’ll get straightened out after while. [_Paula -laughs._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Now, Florence dear, will you go back? - -FLORENCE. [_Crossing back again to the window_] Certainly. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Crossing back to the right, in front of the table_] -And take it right from Mr. Rush’s exit. - -FLORENCE. [_Looking round at Hossefrosse_] Ready? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_In the center-door_] Yes, I’m ready. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Florence_] Go on. - -FLORENCE. [_Repeating her former business of putting on a deadlatch_] -Deadlatch. - -SPINDLER. [_Having again assumed his rigid military attitude_] -Click--click. [_Florence turns and crosses again between the piano and -the table._] - -FLORENCE. [_With a glance at the center-door_] You can come out now, -Clyde, they’ve gone. [_She continues to her former position at the -right of the little table at the left. Hossefrosse steps resolutely -through the center-door, gives her a wicked look, glances toward the -door at the right, then strides forward and plants himself directly -opposite her, his head thrown back, his eyes ablaze, and his arms -akimbo._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Did you come here to make a scene! - -FLORENCE. [_Languidly, and without turning_] Have I made one? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Getting loud_] What are you doing here? - -FLORENCE. [_Raising her hand to enjoin silence_] Sh-sh--[_He turns -abruptly and looks toward the door at the right; then back to her -again._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. I want an explanation of this! - -FLORENCE. [_Turning to him, and rather casually_] So do I. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing at the right of the table below the piano_] -Oh, more imperious, Florence dear! [_Florence and Hossefrosse look at -her._] More of this. [_She lifts her shoulders, eyebrows and chin, to -illustrate her idea of the general hauteur of the line._] Much more. - -FLORENCE. [_Vaguely_] Don’t you think she would cry there? [_Mrs. -Pampinelli looks at her steadily for a pause and thinks: then she rests -her lead-pencil on the table and tilts her head a bit to one side._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Do you want to cry there, dear? - -FLORENCE. No, but I can if you want me to. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No,--personally, I think she’s speaking more in anger -than in sorrow. You see, dear, you are impersonating a wronged wife. -Now, you yourself, Florence darling, are an unmarried girl:--it is -difficult for you to realize how excessively annoyed with her husband -a married woman can become. I think I would take it with more _lift_. -More of this, you know. [_She repeats her former illustration._] - -FLORENCE. [_Endeavoring to imitate the manner of delivery, and speaking -in a deep, tragic tone_] So do I. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Perfect. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli_] Go on? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, go on. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Clearing his throat and trying to summon his attack_] -What is your reason for sneaking into my office at this hour? - -FLORENCE. Is it necessary that your wife have a reason for coming to -your office? - -HOSSEFROSSE. You wanted to embarrass Mrs. Rush, that was it, wasn’t it? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Waving her hand toward them with an upward -movement_] Tempo, children! - -FLORENCE. I wanted to meet my rival. - -HOSSEFROSSE. You could have met Mrs. Rush under more candid -circumstances. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Moving around towards them, in front of the table_] -Tempo, children! - -FLORENCE. The present ones suited my purposes better. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning away impatiently_] Naturally!--You wanted -a scene! [_He starts over to the right, but Mrs. Pampinelli is -standing right in his way, so he stops short, but maintains the -physical tautness of his character. Florence, too, has turned away, -to the left, and is moving across in front of the table towards the -arm-chair._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Oblivious of Hossefrosse, and still making her -upward waving gesture over his shoulder_] Tempo, Florence! [_Suddenly -becoming conscious that she is obstructing Hossefrosse’s cross, and -stepping below him_] I beg your pardon. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Bowing stiffly_] Not at all. [_He continues over to the -right and stops, right in front of Spindler, and they stand looking -into each other’s eyes; while Mrs. Pampinelli comes up at the left of -the table to the piano._] - -FLORENCE. [_Sitting down in the arm-chair_] I think if I were a scenic -woman I’ve had ample opportunity during the last fifteen minutes to -indulge myself. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Still looking into Spindler’s eyes_] You did I think;-- - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Beckoning to Spindler_] Mr. Spindler. - -HOSSEFROSSE. I had the pleasure of hearing you. - -FLORENCE. Was it a pleasure, Clyde? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Still beckoning to Spindler_] Mr. Spindler! - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_Whirling around and glaring at Florence_] It appears to - amuse you! [_Spindler steps below Hossefrosse and passes up in front - of him to Mrs. Pampinelli, who whispers something to him._] - -FLORENCE. [_Unfastening her neckpiece_] I have an inopportune sense of -humor. - -HOSSEFROSSE. You should be able to appreciate the situation, you -created it! - -FLORENCE. [_Looking over at him_] I didn’t create her husband. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Making a little gesture of annoyance_] I’m afraid I’m -stuck! [_He tries hard to think, and Mrs. Pampinelli makes a gesture -toward Mrs. Fell to give him the line, but Nelly is occupied in telling -Ritter a story._] But, don’t tell me! [_He feels for the line again, -and Mrs. Pampinelli tries to attract Nelly’s attention._] I guess I’m -gone. [_Suddenly Nelly bursts into a fit of laughing, having made the -point of the story._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What is the line, Nelly? [_Ritter nudges her._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Stopping suddenly in her laughter and hitting him with her -fan_] Stop that! - -RITTER. Get on your job, you’re holding up the show. [_Nelly looks -excitedly toward Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What is the line, Nelly, please. - -MRS. FELL. What! Oh, I beg your pardon, is somebody stuck? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Hossefrosse. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Got another mind-blank. - -MRS. FELL. Oh, well, now, just wait one minute, please, till I see -where I’m at. [_She searches frantically through the manuscript._] Oh, -yes, here it is! [_Ritter indicates a place on the page. She pushes his -arm out of the way._] I didn’t create her husband. [_Teddy and Twiller -laugh._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, FLORENCE and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, dear, we’ve just passed that. - - FLORENCE. I’ve already said that, Nelly. - - HOSSEFROSSE. It’s the next line. - -MRS. FELL. [_Vaguely, and looking through her lorgnon and spectacles at -the manuscript_] Oh, have we passed that! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. The next line after the one you just read. - -MRS. FELL. Oh, I see now where we are! The next line after that is, -“You’ve all been listening to a lot of damned, cheap gossip.” - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. That’s it. - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli_] That certainly is my Jonah line. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You’ve all been list--[_Spindler goes around to the -right and sits on the piano-stool, looking near-sightedly at the -music._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning to Florence, and assuming his character again_] -You’ve all been listening to a lot of damned, cheap gossip! [_He starts -to cross towards the left, passing between the piano and the table, -but Mrs. Pampinelli is right in his way again, so he is obliged to -stop short and wait._] - -FLORENCE. Which should show you that people are talking. [_Mrs. -Pampinelli turns to see why Hossefrosse is not picking up his line._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Stepping out of his way_] I beg your pardon. [_She -circles down at the left of the table again._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Continuing over towards the mantelpiece_] My fault. One -or two old women, perhaps. - -FLORENCE. Will it confine itself to those? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning at the mantelpiece and coming back to the middle -of the room_] Well, I can’t control that. - -FLORENCE. Have you tried? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Whirling upon her, and literally shouting_] No! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing at the right of the table below the piano_] -Excellent. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning and bowing briefly to her_] Thank you very much. -[_Resuming the scene with Florence_] And I don’t intend to. People will -always talk; it may as well be at my expense as anybody else’s. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Leaning towards him across the table, and speaking -with poisonous sweetness_] Anybody’s _else_, dear. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Beg pardon? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Would you say anybody’s else; it sounds better. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning back again to Florence_] It may as well be at -my expense as anybody else’s. [_Mr. Spindler’s elbow slips off the -piano onto the keyboard, striking a perfectly villainous chord, and -causing everybody to turn and look in that direction._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Spindler, please. - -SPINDLER. [_Adjusting his goggles, which have been slightly dislodged -by the incident_] I’m sorry. [_Mrs. Pampinelli turns back to -Hossefrosse._] Never mind, Mr. Hossefrosse, it will come. - -FLORENCE. Your position can’t afford it. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Taking a step towards the right_] I’ve given them -nothing to talk about. - -FLORENCE. No? [_He stops abruptly and turns and looks at her._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. What? [_He takes a couple of steps towards her._] - -FLORENCE. [_Rising_] Please, Clyde!--[_She crosses in front of the -table at the left and goes towards him. Mrs. Ritter gets up from the -partition-seat and comes down to the table at the right, below the -piano._] You’re not talking to your office-boy--[_Mrs. Ritter picks -up the little chair from the left of the table and starts back again -towards the center-door._] Let us get to the point. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Very well. - -MRS. RITTER and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. RITTER.--Excuse me, Florence. [_Florence bows and smiles._] And - you, too, Mr. Hossefrosse. - - HOSSEFROSSE. What brought you here tonight? [_He turns to see the - cause of the movement behind him._] Don’t mention it. [_Mrs. Ritter - places the chair in front of the partition where she has been sitting, - then crosses to the piano and gets her sewing-basket, returning with - it to the chair and sitting down to sew._] - -FLORENCE. Not to quarrel with you, for one thing. - -HOSSEFROSSE. You wanted to embarrass Mrs. Rush, that was it, wasn’t it? - -FLORENCE. Not at all,--you misunderstood me; I said, “I wanted to -_meet_ Mrs. Rush.” [_Teddy comes in through the center-door from the -right hallway and sits down on the partition-seat at the right. Teddy -is a frail little wisp of a youth around twenty, in dinner clothes. He -has big eyes and good teeth, and laughs on the slightest provocation. -His forehead is defectively high, and his thin hair is plastered back -and brilliantined. His type is always to be found draped upon the -banisters or across the pianos in the houses of the rich,--a kind of -social annoyance, created by wealthy connections and the usual lack of -available men._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. What did you want to meet her for? [_Twiller steps through -the center-door from the right hallway and whispers something to Mrs. -Ritter. She answers him, and he steps out into the hallway and fills -himself out a glass of claret from the bowl, then goes up and sits on -the landing of the stairway and watches the rehearsal._] - -FLORENCE. Why, I thought that we three might--reason together, [_He -holds her eye for a second, then turns away, and reaches in his -various pockets for his cigarettes._] concerning our respective futures. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_In a lowered tone, to Mrs. Pampinelli_] Forgot my -cigarettes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Never mind, I only want lines. Go on, Florence. -[_Hossefrosse takes an imaginary cigarette from an imaginary case, -replaces the case, taps the cigarette on the back of his hand, puts it -in his mouth, strikes an imaginary match on his shoe, and lights the -cigarette._] - -FLORENCE. I’ve deferred the discussion for a long time, but it may as -well be today as tomorrow. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Your plan didn’t work out very well, did it? - -FLORENCE. Oh, yes, very well indeed; although hardly as I had -anticipated; thanks to _her_ husband and _your_ lies. [_He blows out -the imaginary match and tosses it onto the floor at the right; then -snaps his head around and glares at Florence. Mrs. Pampinelli glances -down onto the floor, as though to assure herself that Mr. Hossefrosse -hasn’t really thrown a lighted match onto the carpet._] You’ve -evidently told this boy here that Mrs. Rush is your wife. - -HOSSEFROSSE. I’ve told him nothing of the kind! [_He starts to cross -again to the right, but Mrs. Pampinelli is again right in his pathway, -standing in front of the table below the piano._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Stepping below him, and going a step or two nearer -Florence_] I beg your pardon. - -HOSSEFROSSE. I beg your pardon. [_He continues over to the table below -the window at the right and stands there, pretending to smoke._] - -FLORENCE. Then, you’ve allowed him to think so. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Looking straight ahead_] That’s business. - -FLORENCE. Perhaps it is. It has at least allowed you to be present -at the passing of Mrs. Rush. [_She turns and goes towards the back. -Mrs. Ritter calls her to her and they start discussing the hang of -Florence’s skirt._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Whirling around_] You are deliberately misinterpreting -this situation! [_He starts to move across towards her, passing between -the piano and table._] Yes you are! It’s perfectly ridiculous that a -physician cannot take a woman patient without being subjected to the -whisperings of a lot of vulgar scandal-mongers! [_Nelly Fell goes -into violent laughter at something Ritter has just finished telling -her. Florence and Mrs. Ritter continue their discussion of the dress, -and Mrs. Pampinelli tries by dint of gesturing to attract Florence’s -attention._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Florence dear, please. - -FLORENCE. [_Turning suddenly, and continuing her lines_] Oh, I beg your -pardon! [_She moves slowly towards the mantelpiece._] This is not a -romantic age, Clyde. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Mrs. Rush is a patient of mine! - -FLORENCE. [_Moving down at the left towards Ritter and Mrs. Fell_] She -may have been originally. [_Mrs. Fell bursts out afresh over something -else that Ritter whispers._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Flicking her finger at Nelly_] Sh-sh-Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. [_To Florence, who is standing looking at her_] I beg your -pardon. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Standing in the middle of the room_] She is _now_! - -FLORENCE. [_Resting one hand on the arm-chair_] I’m not disputing it. -[_He turns away, and stands at the left of the table below the piano._] -But she must have a very persistent malady-- - -MRS. FELL. Just one minute, Flossie--one minute-- - -FLORENCE. That hasn’t responded to a treatment of more than six years-- - -MRS. FELL. Flossie, Flossie, Flossie! [_Florence stops and looks at -her._] Just a minute. [_She looks sharply at her manuscript._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What is the matter, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. Oh, I beg your pardon, I thought she’d omitted a line. [_To -Florence_] I beg your pardon. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Go on, Florence. [_Ritter says something to Nelly and -she hits him with the manuscript._] - -FLORENCE. Not to speak of the innumerable changes of air that she’s -enjoyed--[_Mrs. Pampinelli, standing over at the right below the piano, -takes quite a little coughing spell, and Mrs. Ritter promptly gets up -and goes to the punch-bowl to fill her out a glass of punch._] at -your expense; and under your personal escort. [_Hossefrosse looks over -at her. She raises her hand understandingly, and starts slowly across -in front of the table towards him._] I have the day and date of the -majority of them. So, you see, your chivalry is a bit trying, under the -circumstances. [_He looks straight ahead and tries to look sullen and -defeated._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Up in the center-door, holding aloft a glass of punch_] -Betty! - -FLORENCE. But, I haven’t come here to reproach you, or to plead for -your return. Not at all. I think you _love_ this woman. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Coming a little further forward_] Betty! [_Mrs. -Pampinelli has another coughing spell._] - -FLORENCE. And in that case, I want to offer you your freedom-- - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Careful, now, children. [_Mrs. Ritter comes forward to -the table at the left and tries to attract Mrs. Pampinelli’s attention -to the glass of punch._] - -FLORENCE. If you want it. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Holding up her forefinger_] One, two, three. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Snapping his head around and shouting at Florence_] -Well, I don’t want it! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Good! - -HOSSEFROSSE. And I see absolutely no occasion for any such talk. [_Mrs. -Fell drops her bag and reaches for it._] - -FLORENCE. You are probably more broad-minded than I. [_Nelly Fell -utters a piercing little shriek, having almost fallen off the chair -in reaching to pick up her bag. Everyone turns and looks, and Teddy -laughs, as usual._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What’s the matter, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. [_Straightening up, with Ritter’s assistance, and laughing_] -I nearly fell off the chair. [_Mrs. Ritter laughs and returns to the -center-door and stands._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Go on, Florence. - -FLORENCE. And, really, I don’t think your freedom would be a very -good thing for you. You have a form of respectability that requires -a certain anchorage in the conventions. But unless you can reconcile -yourself in the future to a more literal observance of those -conventions, I shall be obliged to insist that you _take_ your freedom. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Look at her, Mr. Hossefrosse. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Beg pardon? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a touch of impatience_] Look at her! [_She -begins to cough again._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Oh, yes, yes! [_He turns and glares at Florence, who is -standing just a couple of feet away from him._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Holding the glass of punch aloft again_] Betty! - -FLORENCE. I have a couple of growing boys,--[_Mrs. Pampinelli passes -right up between Florence and Hossefrosse to Mrs. Ritter, and takes the -glass of claret._] who are beginning to ask me questions which I find -too difficult to answer: and I will neither lie to them--nor allow -them to pity me. - -HOSSEFROSSE. What do you want me to do? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Handing the claret-glass back to Paula, who goes to -the bowl and refills it, and the note-book and pencil to Teddy_] Just -a moment. [_She turns and comes forward in the middle of the room. -Florence turns and moves over to the table at the left, and Hossefrosse -remains standing at the table at the right._] Just one moment. Listen, -Florence dear. [_She uses her handkerchief, then stuffs it into the -bosom of her dress._] I want you, if you can, to make just a little -bit more of that last line. Within the limits of the characterization, -of course; but if you can _feel_ it, I’d like you to give me just the -barest suggestion of a tear. Not too much; but just enough to show -that,--under all her courage--and her threatening, she is still a -woman--and a Mother. You see what I mean, dear? - -FLORENCE. More emotion. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. In that last line. You are doing splendidly, darling, -[_Turning to Hossefrosse_] both of you; [_He acknowledges his -excellence with a short bow._] but I have always _felt_ that that last -line--was really the _big_ moment--of the play. It seems to me--[_She -toys with her necklace, narrows her eyes and looks away off._] that it -is there--that she makes her big plea, for her boys, for her home,--for -every woman’s home. And even though that plea _is_ made in the form of -a threat,--somehow or other--I seem to hear her saying, sub-vocally, -of course, “In God’s _name, don’t_ make it necessary for me to do -this thing!” [_She concludes this speech rather dramatically, her arms -outstretched. Mr. Spindler, at this point, engaged in a too curious -examination of the keyboard, accidentally touches D flat above High -C. Everybody turns and looks at him, but his consciousness of guilt -does not permit of his meeting their eyes, so he remains bent over the -keyboard in precisely the attitude he was in when he struck the note._] - -MRS. FELL. Oh, go away from that piano, Mr. Spindler! [_Mrs. Ritter -comes forward at the left with a dish of cakes and a glass of claret._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Withdrawing her eyes witheringly from Spindler and -turning back to Florence_] Do you see what I mean, dear? - -FLORENCE. I think I do. Do you want me to go back? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, that’s quite all right. We’ll take it right from -Mr. Hossefrosse’s line, [_She turns toward Hossefrosse. And Mrs. Ritter -takes advantage of the circumstance to offer Florence a cake; which, of -course, is declined with thanks. Then she turns to Mrs. Pampinelli and -waits till the lady has finished directing Hossefrosse._] “What do you -want me to do?” [_Mrs. P. turns back, to be confronted with the cakes -and claret; and she takes both. Then she and Paula move back towards -the center-door._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Clearing his throat_] What do you want me to do? [_Paula -gives a shriek of laughter, at something Mrs. Pampinelli whispers to -her. Then Paula goes out through the center-door and offers Twiller, -who is still sitting half-way up the stairs, some cake, which he -accepts, and then Teddy, who declines, and finally, after taking -another one herself, sets the plate down on the hallway table and -resumes her chair up at the left; while Mrs. Pampinelli, cake and -claret in hand, wanders forward at the right, passing over between the -piano and the table below it._] - -FLORENCE. I’ve already told you. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Then, I suppose I’m simply to decline all women patients -in the future, [_She makes a little sound of amusement._] or else -submit them for general approval. [_He now presses the imaginary fire -out of the cigarette on the imaginary tray on the table._] - -FLORENCE. Stick to your guns, Clyde. - -HOSSEFROSSE. That’s the only thing I see to do. [_Mrs. Pampinelli -stands over at the right watching the scene, and eating and drinking._] - -FLORENCE. Your tenacity is commendable, but it’s a lost cause. -[_Looking at him steadily_] I appreciate your embarrassment-- - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning to her, thrusting his hands into his -coat-pockets, tilting his chin, and looking at her with an absurdly -perky expression_] I’m not embarrassed. - -FLORENCE. Desolation, then. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Snapping his fingers at her_] Ha! [_He swings rather -jauntily across and up towards the mantelpiece._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. More nonchalance in the cross, Mr. Hossefrosse. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning to her suddenly_] Me? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. More savoir faire, as we say in French. [_She -illustrates the idea with a kind of floating gesture of the hand._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. I see. [_He continues over to the left and down towards -Ritter and Mrs. Fell, endeavoring to execute Mrs. Pampinelli’s idea -by raising his shoulders, stiffening his arms, throwing his head back -and swinging his legs, as he walks. Nelly Fell is whispering something -to Ritter behind her fan, so that, when Hossefrosse reaches them, he -is obliged to touch Ritter on the shoulder and suggest with a nod and -a smile that the exigencies of the play require that he shall sit -where Ritter is sitting. So Ritter jumps up and tiptoes across in -front of the table and up to the piano, where he stands leaning--and -watching--particularly Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -FLORENCE. [_Moving to the table below the piano_] But, I shall be -magnanimous; having loved and lost myself. So that, really, it may not -be nearly so difficult as you imagine. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Sitting on the chair vacated by Ritter_] Well, I can’t -say that I relish the prospect, with any such misunderstanding as this -between us. - -FLORENCE. [_Crossing to the table at the left_] It’s the portion of -half the world, Clyde. [_Twiller gets up from the stairs and comes down -into the right hallway, where he stands watching._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Trying to look sullen, by resting one elbow on his knee -and hunching his shoulders_] It certainly isn’t a very inviting one. -[_Nelly Fell starts to whisper something in his ear._] - -FLORENCE. But it has its compensations. [_Mrs. Pampinelli, having -finished her cake and claret, sets the empty glass down on the table -below the piano and uses her handkerchief._] You’ll have your memories, -and I shall have the wisdom of disillusionment;--[_The telephone-bell -rings, up in the left hallway. Mrs. Ritter jumps up, places her -sewing-basket on the chair, and, touching her hair, comes forward -quickly at the right to the table below the piano._] as well as the -consciousness of lots of company. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Speaking directly to Mrs. Pampinelli_] Is that my cue? -[_Florence stops and turns and looks at her._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Which cue, dear? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Taking a step towards Florence, and with a little -questioning, bewildered gesture_] The telephone is my cue, isn’t it? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a touch of impatience_] No, darling, you’re not -on in this scene at all. Go on, Florence. [_Mrs. Ritter puts her hand -to her cheek and looks from one to the other in puzzled embarrassment._] - -FLORENCE. [_Turning and resuming her lines to Hossefrosse, who, by this -time, is deep in conversation with Mrs. Fell_] For there are a million -women exactly like me. [_Mrs. Ritter bursts out laughing. So does -Teddy. Twiller reaches over the partition and flips Teddy on the head -with his handkerchief. Jenny appears in the left hallway to answer the -telephone._] - -MRS. RITTER and FLORENCE, together. - - MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli_] Oh, I beg your pardon! - [_She leans across the table explaining to Mrs. Pampinelli, who tries - politely to silence her by suggestion that the scene is in progress._] - I thought that was my cue. - - FLORENCE--Secondary women. [_She moves around above the table and - stands just above Hossefrosse._] So don’t look so tragic; you haven’t - lost anything but a lot of time; - -JENNY. [_At the telephone_] Hello? - -MRS. RITTER, FLORENCE and MRS. FELL, together. - - MRS. RITTER.--I was thinking of something else, you know, and when I - heard the telephone, I thought it was for me. - - FLORENCE.--And that’s always lost when it’s spent on things that are - insusceptible of conclusion. - - MRS. FELL. [_Bursting into a perfect shriek of laughter at something - Hossefrosse has just finished telling her, and pushing him away from - her_] Huxley Hossefrosse, you are perfectly dreadful! [_He laughs, - too, and attempts to tell her something else, but she turns away and - waves him aside._] No, No, No. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No dear, that is your own telephone. - -JENNY. [_At the telephone still_] Just a minute. [_Mrs. Ritter turns -towards the back of the room._] - -MRS. RITTER. Oh, so it is! [_Directly to Ritter_] I knew I had one -telephone cue. [_She goes laughing through the center-door and on out -into the right hallway._] - -JENNY. [_Trying to attract Ritter’s attention_] MR. RITTER! [_But -Ritter is absorbed in watching Hossefrosse. Florence stands waiting -for Hossefrosse and Nelly to stop laughing, but as it doesn’t look as -though they will ever stop, she gives Hossefrosse a little dig in the -shoulder with her finger. He straightens up abruptly._] - -FLORENCE. [_Prompting him_] I’ve lost her. - -JENNY. Mr. Ritter! - -HOSSEFROSSE. I’ve lost her. - -FLORENCE. That was inevitable in your case, Clyde; you have a -conventional soul. [_Jenny asks Teddy in pantomime to attract Ritter’s -attention._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_In a tone intended to express abysmal despair_] I’ve -lost you. [_Ritter bursts out laughing. Teddy reaches out and indicates -that he is wanted on the telephone. Jenny holds the telephone up, and -he steps quickly out into the hallway to take it from her._] - -FLORENCE. That was incidental, eh? - -HOSSEFROSSE. But, it seems to me there should be some other way. - -FLORENCE. [_Moving to the right, above the table_] There is, my dear -boy,--for lots of people---- - -RITTER. [_at the telephone_] Hello? [_Jenny goes out._] - -FLORENCE. But not for you. - -RITTER. Yes. - -FLORENCE. You’re too respectable--Physically, I mean. [_She laughs a -little, and stands above the table looking at him._] - -RITTER. Well, wait a minute, I’ll talk to you upstairs. [_He sets the -telephone down and starts towards the right to go upstairs. As he -passes the center-door he speaks to Teddy, who is still sitting just -inside the center-door on the right partition-seat._] Hang that up -when I get on, will you, Teddy? [_Teddy jumps up and goes out to the -telephone, and holds it, waiting till Ritter gets on the extension -upstairs._] - -FLORENCE. And Mrs. Rush has what it appears to me to be a -rather--primitive husband--[_Hossefrosse gives her a narrow look._] and -you have a very modern wife. So be wise, Clyde; you know what usually -happens to him who “loves the danger.” [_There is a loud knock at the -right door. Hossefrosse jumps to his feet and stands looking fearfully -toward it. Florence assumes all the dignity at her command, drawing -herself up, placing her right hand upon her throat, her left on her -hip, and waiting,--the proud but outraged wife. Mrs. Pampinelli holds -up both hands and looks in the direction of the door, to impress -everybody with the dramatic value of the situation. Teddy hangs up the -receiver and stands watching her. Nelly Fell straightens up briskly and -sits watching the door, in expectant attention. Then Mrs. Pampinelli -makes a gesture to Florence to go on with her lines._] Go into your -office, I’ll talk to this woman. [_Hossefrosse drops his head and -shoulders and slinks across in front of the table, a beaten man. He -continues up to the center-door and out, into the right hallway. -The knock is repeated at the right door. Mrs. Pampinelli motions -to Teddy that that is his cue to open the door. He comes through -the center-door and crosses above the piano to the right door, Mrs. -Pampinelli at the same time moving over to the arm-chair at the right -and enshrining herself. Teddy opens the door; and Mrs. Ritter swishes -in self-consciously. Nelly Fell and Mr. Twiller give a little ripple -of applause, but Mrs. Pampinelli holds one finger up toward Nelly and -shushes her. Mrs. Ritter is wearing a rather bizarre-looking hat, -set at something of a challenging angle, and as she comes forward at -the right of the piano, she bursts into a self-conscious giggle. But -Mrs. Pampinelli reproves her with a look. So she controls herself and -crosses below the piano, Teddy, simultaneously, crossing above the -piano. She stops at the corner of the piano and rests her left hand -upon it. Then she places her right hand upon her hip, and, tilting her -head back, looks at Teddy, who has stopped directly above her. Ritter -appears on the stairway, and moves down a step or two, watching his -wife, narrowly._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Flipping her left hand at Teddy, in an attempt to give a -fly impression_] Hello, kid. - -TEDDY. Hello, Mrs. Arlington. [_Mrs. Ritter swishes down towards the -left, shaking her head from side to side and holding her arms akimbo. -She turns around to her left, gives Florence a look, supposed to be a -very contemptuous look, and stands in the middle of the room again, -facing Teddy._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Speaking directly to Teddy_] Is my sweetie in? [_Ritter -moves slowly down to the landing of the stairs, watching his wife as -though she were some baffling phenomenon._] - -TEDDY. No, mam, he ain’t. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Drawing her shoulders up, and speaking in a high -unnatural key_] What! - -TEDDY. He went about six o’clock. - -MRS. RITTER. Why, I had an appointment with _him_! - -TEDDY. He might be back, maybe. - -MRS. RITTER. But, I can’t wait unless I’m _certain_ that he’s coming -back. - -TEDDY. He was expecting you. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Still shaking her head and trying generally to appear -bold_] Yes, I know he was. [_Turning to the table at the left, back of -which Florence is standing_] I suppose I’d better leave a note for him. -[_She indicates the table with a waving gesture of her left hand._] - -TEDDY. You’ll find that green one is the best pen. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Stepping to the table_] Thanks. [_She looks at Florence, -who gives her a withering look over her right shoulder and turns away -to the mantelpiece at the left. Then Mrs. Ritter gives her idea of a -scornful laugh._] Ha! Ha! Ha! - -RITTER. [_Sweeping his hand across his brow, groaning, and falling down -the stairs, into the right hallway_] Oh my God! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Seeing him fall, and jumping up_] Oh, my dear! -[_Everybody turns._] - -TWILLER. [_Trying to catch him_] Hold it! [_Spindler rushes past Mrs. -Pampinelli and out the center-door into the right hallway. Teddy jumps -into a kneeling position on the right partition-seat and looks over the -partition. Florence and Mrs. Fell rush up to the center-door and try -to see what’s going on, Nelly dodging from one side of Florence to the -other, and peering through her lorgnon._] Are you hurt, old man? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Handing his cane and gloves to Spindler_] Hold those, -please. [_Spindler takes them, and Hossefrosse prepares to assist -Twiller to lift Ritter from the floor._] - -TWILLER. Get some water, somebody! [_Spindler rushes out the left -hallway. Mrs. Pampinelli sweeps up from below the table at the right to -the center-door._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Bewildered, in the middle of the room, as Mrs. -Pampinelli passes her_] What is it, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Now, don’t get excited, Paula. [_Mrs. Ritter steps -frantically across to the piano and turns, leaning against it, looking -wide-eyed at Nelly Fell._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Lift up his head. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Looking eagerly out into the right hallway_] Is he -hurt, boys? - -TWILLER. I want to get him under the arms. [_They lift Ritter onto a -bench in the hallway. Nelly Fell turns away from the center-door with -an exclamation of distress._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. We’d better lay him right here. - -MRS. RITTER. Is it Fred, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. I don’t know, dear. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and MRS. FELL, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Addressing Hossefrosse and Twiller_] You can lay - him right here, boys, I think it’ll be as good as any. - - MRS. FELL. What is it, Florence, did Mr. Ritter fall downstairs? - -FLORENCE. I think so. - -MRS. FELL. [_Covering her eyes and swaying_] Oh, dear child, don’t! -[_Florence puts her arm around her and guides her towards the arm-chair -at the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Give me one of those pillows, Teddy. [_He hands her a -pillow from the partition-seat where he’s kneeling._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Sinking into the arm-chair at the left_] Betty, I think -I’m going to faint! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to her_] Sit down, dear, I’ll get you some -water. [_Calling and beckoning out into the left hallway_] Jenny dear! -come here, please! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Rushing across from the right to the left hallway_] I -think I’d better call Dr. Wentworth. [_He snatches up the telephone and -works the hook violently._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, I would. [_She turns around to her left and -stands looking questioningly at Mrs. Ritter._] Go on with your lines, -Paula. - -MRS. RITTER. Well, is he _dead_, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a definite little gesture of her right hand_] -Never mind! [_The curtain commences to descend, and she sweeps -forward._] We will go right on from where Mr. Ritter fell downstairs. - - -THE CURTAIN IS DOWN - -AS IT RISES AGAIN FOR THE PICTURE - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_At the telephone_] Landsdowne 8, please,--right away! -[_Spindler rushes in from the left hallway carrying a glass of water, -and followed immediately by Jenny. Twiller is ministering to Ritter. -Mrs. Pampinelli is standing in the middle of the room, facing the -center-door, and holding up both her hands, as a signal to the various -artists that the rehearsal is about to be resumed; so they quickly -step to the various positions in which they respectively were when Mr. -Ritter fell._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Addressing Teddy_] Yes, I know he was. I s’pose I’d -better leave a note for him. - - -END OF THE ACT - - - - -THE TORCH-BEARERS--ACT II. - - -NOTE: - -The setting for this act consists simply of three wings set in the -middle of the stage about four feet from the footlights, and parallel -to the footlights, the wing in the middle, a plain one, and the one on -either side of it, a door-wing. These doors open toward the footlights, -and the one on the right is hinged to the right, and the one on the -left, to the left. From these door-wings, regular plain wings oblique -off to the back wall; and the whole thing is lashed and stage-screwed -after the fashion of regulation stage-setting. As the doors in the back -flat open, there can be had a glimpse of footlights, and just beyond -them, a neutral drop, in grayish black, to represent an auditorium. -Between the back flat and the stage footlights, (as distinguished from -the regular footlights) the miniature stage is set to represent the -interior of a doctor’s waiting-room. Through the door at the right -can be seen a desk and revolving chair, and a couple of plain chairs -against the wall; and through the left door, a table, littered with -magazines, a cabinet, a revolving bookcase and two more chairs. There -is a bright rug on the floor. Between the back flat and the regular -footlights, over toward the left, there is a stage-screw sticking right -up out of the floor; and between the two doors there is a plain chair -with its back against the flat. Over the door on the right, there is -a row of six electric bulbs with a cord and button depending from it; -and further right, half-way back, there is a wood-wing, set as though -it were the exterior backing for a window in the miniature set. Over at -the left, away back, fastened about head-high against the back wall, -there is a small switchboard-arrangement. Just below this there is an -old chair, without a back, with a newspaper lying upon it. - - -THE TORCH-BEARERS--ACT II. - -_A waltz is being played somewhere off at the right. Florence and Mrs. -Ritter are standing in the middle of the stage, facing the flats, -talking. Florence is wearing a fawn-colored, one-piece coat-dress, -buttoned high at the throat, military fashion, and a toque made of -wine-colored velvet leaves. She wears fawn-colored slippers and -stockings, and carries a fitch muff. Mrs. Ritter is wearing a very -rich-looking coat-suit in blue serge, trimmed at the collar and cuffs -with white monkey-fur. Her hat is dark-blue felt, quite large, with -a bird of paradise set at a decidedly rakish tilt. Her slippers and -stockings are black, and she carries an umbrella. Over at the extreme -left, and forward, Mrs. Fell is hearing Mr. Twiller read his lines -from the manuscript. Mrs. Fell is gowned in a brilliant creation of -silver-cloth trimmed with sea-green satin. There are numerous strings -of crystal beads hanging in the front from the waist to the bottom of -the skirt, and she has a spreading poinsetta in scarlet velvet fastened -at her waist. There is a long, fish-tail train to the gown, lined with -the green satin, and she has a heavy rope of pearls and sea-green beads -around her neck, from which her lorgnon depends. There are diamonds in -her hair, diamonds galore upon her arms and hands, and she’s wearing -her diamond dog-collar. Her slippers and stockings are of pale green. -Mr. Twiller has on a double-breasted blue-serge suit, a black derby, -black shoes and fawn-colored spats, and a perfectly villainous-looking -black mustache, absurdly large, and obviously artificial. He stands -leaning upon a cane, reciting his lines to Mrs. Fell. Mr. Spindler, -in a dinner-suit, is trying desperately to unfasten the stage-screw -from the floor at the left, while Mr. Hossefrosse, wearing a light -business-suit, a light, soft hat, tan shoes and spats, and carrying a -cane and gloves, is pacing back and forth between the left door and the -extreme left, reciting his lines to himself. He is atrociously made up, -with the carmine smeared heavily on his cheek-bones. The stage manager, -in a tan jumper and army shirt, dirty white running-pumps, a battered -old cap adorned with many tobacco-tags, and carrying a hammer, wanders -on from the right and crosses the stage, passing below Florence and -Mrs. Ritter, who turn and look at him curiously, and continues on up -at the left to the switch-board, where he picks up the newspaper from -the broken chair, and, after lighting his pipe, sits down to read. He -is apparently disgusted with the world and utterly oblivious of his -surroundings. The waltz-music stops, and Mr. Hossefrosse comes to a -halt in his pacing, right outside the left door. It is instantly flung -open, knocking him toward the left, and disarranging his hat, and Mrs. -Pampinelli sweeps out--in a princess-gown of ruby-colored velvet, with -a long train, and heavily trimmed about the upper part of the bodice -with ornaments of ruby-colored beads. Her shoulders and arms are bare, -and she has a small string of rubies about her throat;--a bracelet and -several rings of rubies; as well as a high Spanish comb studded with -rubies. Her slippers are of black velvet. Mrs. Ritter gives a little -cry as Mr. Hossefrosse is struck by the door._ - - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Holding the door ajar_] Oh, did I hit you, Mr. -Hossefrosse! I’m so sorry. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Settling his hat_] That’s all right. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To the ladies_] The setting looks splendid, girls! -[_Crossing quickly below Hossefrosse towards the left_] Will you come -here for a moment, Mr. Spindler? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning away to the right_] I don’t want to see it till -I go on. - -FLORENCE. [_As Hossefrosse comes towards her_] You’d better keep away -from that door, Mr. Hossefrosse. [_She and Mrs. Ritter laugh._] - -HOSSEFROSSE and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - HOSSEFROSSE. Yes, I think I had. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Up at the left, addressing the stage manager_] Are - you ready, Mr. Stage Manager? [_He continues to read._] - -HOSSEFROSSE and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_Brushing his clothes_] I don’t think a whisk-broom’d be - out of place on this stage, either. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Spindler, who is still occupied with the - stage-screw_] Mr. Spindler, will you come here, please? [_Turning back - to the stage manager_] Mr. Stage Manager! [_Spindler goes towards her, - and Hossefrosse goes through the left door._] - -STAGE MANAGER. [_Looking up from his paper, very peevishly_] Yes? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Are you all ready? - -STAGE MANAGER and TWILLER, together. - - STAGE MANAGER. Yes, sure, I’m all ready. [_He resumes his newspaper._] - - TWILLER. [_Turning sharply to Spindler, who has stopped on his way to - Mrs. Pampinelli to call Mrs. Fell’s attention to the stage-screw, and - to warn her to be careful of it_] Oh, go away! Can’t you see we’re - busy. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. [_Stepping briskly to her side_] Yes, mam? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Come here, please. [_Turning to the stage manager_] -Mr. Stage Manager--[_He looks up._] This young man will give you the -cue for the curtain, in case I am not here. - -STAGE MANAGER. All right. [_He resumes his newspaper._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning and coming forward again, holding her skirt -up off the floor_] You stand right here, Mr. Spindler, and I’ll give -you the signal when I’m ready. - -SPINDLER. All right. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Hurrying towards the left door_] Now, is everybody -all right? - -FLORENCE. Yes. - -MRS. RITTER. I think so. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How are _you_, Paula? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Giggling_] All right. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Where’s Mr. Hossefrosse? [_She glances frantically -about._] - -FLORENCE and MRS. RITTER, together. - - FLORENCE. He’s just stepped on the stage. - - MRS. RITTER. He was here a minute ago. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Hossefrosse, where are you! [_She opens the left -door._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Calling_] Mr. Hossefrosse! [_He opens the right door and -comes out._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Yes? - -TEDDY and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - TEDDY. [_Sitting at the desk over at the right, in the miniature set - beyond the flats, to Mrs. Pampinelli, as she comes through the left - door_] There he is. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Teddy, as she steps into the miniature set, - through the left door_] Where’s Mr. Hossefrosse? - -FLORENCE and MRS. RITTER, together. - - FLORENCE. [_To Hossefrosse_] Mrs. Pampinelli’s looking for you. - - MRS. RITTER. [_Calling_] Here he is, Mrs. Pampinelli! [_Hossefrosse - steps quickly to the left door and starts in, just as Mrs. Pampinelli - comes out through the right door. Florence steps over to the left door - and catches Hossefrosse by the arm, and pulls him back._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming through the right door_] Where _is_ he? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Pointing to Hossefrosse_] There he is! [_She laughs._] - -FLORENCE. [_Drawing Hossefrosse back_] Mrs. Pampinelli wants you! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli_] I beg your pardon. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, Mr. Hossefrosse! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Crossing to the right towards her_] Yes? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Are you all right? - -HOSSEFROSSE. I think so, yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How is your make-up? - -HOSSEFROSSE. All right, I think. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Indicating the right door_] Would you stand here for -a moment under this light until I see it? - -HOSSEFROSSE. Certainly. [_He goes to the right door and stands with -his back against it. The light from the row of electric bulbs over the -door shines down on his face. Mrs. Pampinelli stands off to his right, -surveying his make-up critically._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Very good. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Not too much red? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, I shouldn’t say so. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Indicating his right cheek_] Up here, I mean. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, I think the contour of your face requires it. It -heightens the expression. [_She starts across towards the left._] It’s -very good. [_Hossefrosse comes over and chats with the ladies about his -make-up._] Mr. Twiller! [_Twiller turns from Mrs. Fell._] - -TWILLER. Yes? [_Turning back to Mrs. Fell_] Excuse me, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. Certainly. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How is your mustache? - -TWILLER. [_Touching it gingerly_] All right, I think. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Is it quite secure? - -TWILLER. I think so. [_Mrs. Ritter, Florence and Hossefrosse turn and -look._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Stepping back a step from him and looking at the -mustache, with her head tilted a bit to the left side_] You’ve made it -a little smaller, haven’t you? - -TWILLER. [_Touching the left side of his mustache_] I cut it down a bit -on this side. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I thought you had. - -TWILLER. I was a little conscious of it. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well,--I don’t know but that it’s better for the -characterization. - -TWILLER. And how are my eyes? [_He turns and looks out and away off, -widening his eyes as though he were having his picture taken._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_After looking keenly at his eyes for a second_] Very -effective. [_She turns quickly away towards the right, and Twiller -turns back to his left to Mrs. Fell._] Now, is everybody ready? [_They -all smile and nod._] Your gloves and cane, Mr. Hossefrosse? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Crossing above Florence and Mrs. Ritter towards Mrs. -Pampinelli, extending his cane and gloves_] Yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning towards Mrs. Fell_] Places, Nelly! Get -ready, Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. I’m all ready. [_Mrs. Fell closes the manuscript, excuses -herself to Twiller, and crosses, above him, towards the right. He goes -back at the left and says something to Spindler, then comes forward -again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Calling through the left door_] Are you all right, -Teddy? - -TEDDY. [_Beyond the flats, over at the right_] All right. [_As Mrs. -Fell passes above Florence and Mrs. Ritter, on her way over to -the right, she whispers something to them which causes a general -laugh:--then she continues on over to the door at the right and takes -up her official position, as promptress._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning and addressing them generally_] Now, is -everybody all right? [_They all nod._] You both all right, girls? -[_Mrs. Ritter nods._] - -FLORENCE. All right. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning around to the left to Mr. Spindler, and with -an authoritative gesture_] All right, then--take up the curtain! - -SPINDLER. [_Waving his hand to the stage manager_] All right, Stage -Manager! - -STAGE MANAGER. [_Getting up, very reluctantly_] Are you ready? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and SPINDLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, all ready. - - SPINDLER. Let her go! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a kind of ceremonious flourish of the hand_] -Take up the curtain! [_The stage manager tosses his newspaper onto -the chair and steps out of sight, to the left. There is an anxious -pause. Then Mrs. Pampinelli starts violently and grabs the knob of the -left door._] Oh, wait one moment! [_Spindler rushes back at the left, -whistling._] - -FLORENCE, MRS. RITTER, TWILLER and HOSSEFROSSE, together, [_as Mrs. -Pampinelli pulls open the left door._] - - FLORENCE. Wait a minute! - - MRS. RITTER. Oh, wait! - - TWILLER. Hold it! - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_Grabbing the door and holding it open_] Not yet! - -MRS. RITTER. [_Calling to the stage manager_] Just a minute! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Going in through the left door_] One moment, please! -[_She vanishes to the right, and there is a slight pause, during which -the curtain, which had been raised four feet, can be seen through the -door to descend again. They all exchange looks of distress and amused -annoyance. Then Mrs. Pampinelli hurries out through the door again._] -All right! - -SPINDLER. [_Who has come forward at the left_] Is it all right? -[_Hossefrosse releases the door and it closes._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, it’s all right. [_Spindler goes towards the back -at the left and she follows him half-way._] - -SPINDLER. All right, Mr. Stage Manager! - -STAGE MANAGER. [_Off at the left_] Are you ready? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and SPINDLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, all ready, Mr. Stage Manager! - - SPINDLER. Let her go! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning and coming forward at the left_] Take it -up! [_She stands just to the left of the left door, peering through -the flats. Spindler is farther back at the left, peering, also; and -Mrs. Fell is over at the right door, peering. There is a pause. Mr. -Hossefrosse takes up his position outside the left door, preparatory to -making his entrance. He settles his clothes generally, and clears his -throat._] The curtain is going up, Mr. Hossefrosse, go on. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Is it up? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, yes, go on! [_He opens the door, rather -magnificently, and swings in. There is a ripple of applause, and the -door closes after him; and they all try to find a crevice between the -flats that will afford a glimpse of the stage beyond. The stage manager -appears from the left carrying a regulation door-slam, which he brings -forward and drops, with a bang, just to the left of the left door. They -all turn and look at him, in resentful astonishment, but he simply -gives them a look of infinite disdain and returns to his chair at the -back to read._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Beyond the flats_] Anybody here, David? - -TEDDY. [_Beyond the flats, over toward the right_] No, sir. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Beyond the flats, moving towards the right_] No -telephones? - -TEDDY. No, sir. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Coming through the right door, without his hat_] Nothing -at all, eh? [_Mrs. Ritter is standing right in front of the door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Get away from the door, Paula! [_Paula jumps to the -left. Mrs. Fell takes advantage of the crevice caused by the door -being open, to try to see the audience._] - -TEDDY. [_Who can be seen through the open door standing at the desk_] -No, sir. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Leaning over and laying his cane and gloves on the chair -between the doors_] All right, sir. [_The door begins to swing to -behind him._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Keep that door open, Mr. Hossefrosse! [_Spindler comes -forward at the left to see what’s the matter. Hossefrosse thrusts his -foot back and kicks the door open._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. And I think that will do very nicely for this day. [_The -door begins slowly to swing to again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. There it goes again, Mr. Hossefrosse! - -HOSSEFROSSE. It won’t _stay_ open! [_Mrs. Fell looks around the door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Take hold of that door, Nelly! [_Nelly puts one foot -around it, and stands looking at her manuscript. Spindler goes back at -the left and looks through the wings again, at the stage._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_In a frantic whisper_] Telephone! - -MRS. FELL. Telephone, somebody! - -HOSSEFROSSE. Good Lord! - -FLORENCE. Mr. Spindler, telephone! [_Spindler rushes forward at the -left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Where is he? - -SPINDLER. What? - -FLORENCE. The telephone-bell! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Where’s your bell? - -SPINDLER. [_Pulling the battery-arrangement out of his pocket_] Has the -cue been given? - -TEDDY. [_Picking up the telephone on the desk beyond the flats_] Hello? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Ring it! Of course it’s been given! [_He rings the -bell, and Hossefrosse steps through the right door and watches Teddy -anxiously._] - -SPINDLER. I didn’t hear it! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Annihilating him with a look, and starting over -towards the right door_] Well, why aren’t you over here when your cue’s -given and then you would hear it! [_Spindler trails over after her._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Over his shoulder, to Mrs. Pampinelli_] Shush! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning sharply back towards the left, and directly -to Spindler, who is right behind her_] Shush! [_She passes below him -and continues towards the left._] Keep away from that door, they’ll see -you! [_In attempting to keep out of the way of the door, Spindler turns -sharply and trips over the screw of a stage-brace, falling his length -across the open door. Mrs. Ritter gives a little scream, and Mrs. -Pampinelli whirls round and glares at him. He scrambles to his feet, -and Mrs. Ritter giggles and pulls him to the left, away from the door._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Standing in the open door, addressing Teddy_] Mrs. -A.? [_Teddy nods, and Hossefrosse pretends to pick up an imaginary -telephone from a desk just to the left of the right door._] Yes? All -right. [_He pretends to hang up and set the telephone down on the desk -again._] You can clear out of here now, David, any time you like,--Mrs. -Arlington is on her way up. - -TEDDY. [_Rising, and settling the various papers on the desk_] All -right. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Helping Mr. Spindler to brush off his clothes_] Did -you hurt yourself, Mr. Spindler? [_Mrs. Pampinelli tries to attract -Spindler’s attention to the door-slam._] - -SPINDLER. No. [_He hurries over to the door-slam at the left and picks -it up._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. I’ll let you off early Monday. [_Florence stands anxiously -outside the left door._] - -TEDDY. Oh, that’s all right. - -HOSSEFROSSE. And don’t forget to leave that list with the Robinson -people on your way down Monday. - -TEDDY. No, sir, I won’t; I have it right here in me pocket. [_Florence -puts her lips against the left door and coughs hard. Then she shuffles -her feet; so does Spindler. Hossefrosse steps through the right door -and looks over toward the left door._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Addressing Teddy, in a subdued tone_] Is that someone -coming? - -TEDDY. [_Looking toward the left door_] I think so. [_There is a slight -pause, then Mrs. Pampinelli makes a decisive movement to Spindler and -he brings the door-slam down with a thunderous bang. Mrs. Pampinelli -starts violently._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That’s too loud, Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. There’s too much wood in it! [_He starts across to the -right._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Stepping down to Teddy’s desk and picking up his hat_] -That can’t be Mrs. Arlington already. I won’t see anyone else. [_He -starts back towards the door._] Tell them I’ve gone; and don’t let -anybody wait. [_He takes hold of the door as he steps through._] Say -you’re just locking up the office. [_He comes through the door and -tries to close it, but Nelly’s foot is still around it, and she is lost -in the manuscript. He pulls at the door, but she is oblivious._] - -MRS. RITTER. Nelly! [_Spindler gives a little whistle to attract her -attention._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Let go of the door, Nelly! - -MRS. FELL. [_Jumping out of the way, to the right_] Oh, I beg your -pardon! [_Hossefrosse scowls at her and closes the door. Spindler jumps -to the door and turns a key, which he has in his hand, in the lock, -then touches the button at the end of the cord, extinguishing the row -of lights over the door, then rushes back towards the left door. Mrs. -Ritter is right in his way as he rushes back, and they dodge each other -twice before Mr. Spindler can get past. When he reaches the left door, -he raps violently, Mrs. Pampinelli directing his activities with little -nervous gestures. There is a pause: then the left door is opened by -Teddy. Mrs. Ritter is right in front of it._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing to the left of the door_] Get out of the -way, Paula! [_Mrs. Ritter jumps out of the way, to the right, then -looks back at Mrs. Pampinelli and giggles, but Mrs. Pampinelli puts her -finger on her lips._] - -FLORENCE. [_Passing through the left door_] Good evening, son. - -TEDDY. [_Reaching out and closing the door_] Good evening. [_There -is prolonged applause from beyond the flats, and everybody, having -seen Florence safely through the door, rushes to his favorite crevice -between the wings, or rip in the scenery, to see how she is being -received by the audience._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Isn’t the Doctor in? - -TEDDY. No, mam, he ain’t; he went about six o’clock. - -FLORENCE. That’s unfortunate, I wanted to see him. [_Hossefrosse turns -away from the right door, where he’s been peeking, and mops his brow: -then he turns and puts his hat down on the chair._] - -SPINDLER. [_Stepping towards him from the left door_] How do you feel? - -HOSSEFROSSE. All right; but that door and that telephone got me kind of -rattled. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Looking over from the extreme left of the back flat, -where she has been peeking_] Shush, boys! [_Hossefrosse turns away and -tiptoes towards the right, and the others resume their peeking._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning to Hossefrosse, as he passes below her_] What’s -the matter, Huxley, did something go wrong? [_Mrs. Pampinelli looks -over again to see who’s talking._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Indicating the right door_] That door kind of got me -rattled for a minute. - -MRS. FELL. I don’t think the audience noticed it. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Shush! [_Nelly consults her manuscript, listening at -the same time to the dialogue beyond the flats, and Mr. Hossefrosse -continues to the extreme right and forward, trying to make the squeak -of his new shoes as inaudible as possible. Mrs. Pampinelli puts her ear -to the flat and listens keenly._] - -TEDDY. [_Faintly, beyond the flats_] Why, he always asts me to wait -whenever he’s expectin’ his wife downtown. [_Spindler suddenly turns -from the wing where he has been peeking, and, breaking into quite -a jaunty little whistle, starts across towards the left; but Mrs. -Pampinelli turns abruptly and glares him into silence. He clasps his -hand over his mouth and apologizes with an obsequious little gesture._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] I see. And he was expecting her this -evening? - -TEDDY. Yes, mam. - -FLORENCE. Do you know her? [_Spindler trips and almost falls over the -stage-screw in the floor at the left. Twiller, who has been standing -down at the extreme left, makes an impatient move and goes up towards -the back._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, Mr. Spindler, for Pity’s sake do keep still for -one moment! - -SPINDLER. [_Squatting down and attempting to remove the screw_] We’d -better get this thing out of here, before somebody gets hurt. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Now, don’t take that out of there, Mr. Spindler! You -might loosen the scenery. - -SPINDLER. This isn’t connected with the scenery. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You don’t know whether it is or not! Leave it where it -is. - -SPINDLER. [_Getting up and moving over towards the right_] Somebody’s -going to get their neck broken, the first thing you know. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Very well, then, that will be their misfortune! We’ve -simply got to be careful, that’s all. Get ready, Paula. [_Mrs. Ritter -giggles and takes up her position outside the left door._] - -MRS. FELL. [_As Spindler comes towards her_] What’s the matter, Mr. -Spindler? - -SPINDLER. [_In quite a temper, and indicating the stage-screw over at -the left_] Why, that thing there is sticking right up in the middle of -the floor, and the first thing you-- - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Shush!--[_He turns and scowls at her, and she glares -at him. He passes below Mrs. Fell and over to Hossefrosse, at the -extreme right and forward, where he whispers his grievance._] - -MRS. FELL. You all right, Paula? [_Paula nods yes._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Don’t be nervous, now, Paula. [_Twiller comes forward -at the left._] - -MRS. RITTER. I’m not the least bit, dear, really. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, that’s splendid, dear. I’ll open the door for -you. [_She takes hold of the knob of the left door._] - -MRS. RITTER. All right, thank you. [_They stand listening, keenly._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Do you mind if I wait a few minutes, in -case he comes? - -TEDDY. [_Beyond the flats_] Why, I was just going home. - -FLORENCE. Oh, were you? [_Twiller lifts his hat and gives it a little -wave at Mrs. Ritter, and she waves her hand back at him._] - -TEDDY. Yes, mam; and I have to lock up the office before I go. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Suddenly_] There it is now, dear. [_She opens -the door, and Mrs. Ritter steps back a bit, in order to make a more -effective entrance._] Good luck, darling. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to her_] Thank you, dear. [_She steps through -the door, tripping awkwardly over the door-strip. Mrs. Pampinelli makes -a gesture of extreme annoyance. There is an outburst of applause; -then Mrs. Pampinelli closes the door, and they all step to the flats -and peek through, Mrs. Pampinelli at the left door, Mrs. Fell at the -right, Mr. Spindler between them, and Hossefrosse and Twiller about -half-way back at the right and left, respectively. There is a pause; -and then Mrs. Ritter can be heard beyond the flats._] Hello, kid! - -TEDDY. Hello, Mrs. Arlington. - -MRS. RITTER. Is my sweetie in? - -TEDDY. No, mam, he ain’t. - -MRS. RITTER. [_With an unnatural inflection_] What! - -MRS. FELL. [_Calling over in a whisper to Mrs. Pampinelli_] Betty! -[_Mrs. Pampinelli doesn’t hear her, so she tiptoes over towards her._] -Betty! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What? - -MRS. FELL. Did Paula trip? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming away from the flat, and moving down to Mrs. -Fell_] Yes. [_Mrs. Fell gives an annoyed shake of her head._] But I -don’t see how anyone can get onto _that_ stage _without_ tripping. - -MRS. FELL. I don’t either. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. It seems an utter impossibility to me for anyone, -especially a woman, to get through those doors without catching her -heel or her skirt or something. [_Spindler crosses to the left, back of -the ladies, and speaks to Twiller._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Returning to the right door_] It’s dreadful! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to her left and going back again to the -left door_] I don’t see the necessity of it. - -MRS. FELL. [_Opening her manuscript_] I don’t either. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Listening keenly_] I’m afraid they’re not hearing -Paula at all. - -MRS. FELL. What? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I say, I’m afraid Paula isn’t loud enough. - -MRS. FELL. Well, why don’t you speak to her, Betty, she’s sitting right -here. [_She indicates the point right inside the right door, and Mrs. -Pampinelli, picking up her skirt, hurries over. Mrs. Fell steps out of -the way, to the right._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Putting her lips to the joining of the door-wing and -the side wing_] Speak a little louder, Paula! I’m afraid they’re not -hearing you! - -MRS. FELL. Can she hear you? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. A little louder, dear! [_The right door is thrust open -by Teddy._] - -TEDDY. [_In a frantic whisper_] There’s no pen and ink on the desk! -[_Spindler rushes over from the left._] - -SPINDLER. What? [_Mrs. Pampinelli, Mrs. Fell and Mr. Hossefrosse rush -round to him from the right._] - -TEDDY. No pen and ink! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What is it, Teddy? - -TEDDY and SPINDLER, together. - - TEDDY. No pen and ink on the desk! - - SPINDLER. No pen and ink! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. My God! - -MRS. FELL. Tell her to use a lead-pencil! - -TEDDY and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - TEDDY.--[_To Mrs. Fell_] There’s none on there! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Give him a lead-pencil, Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. [_Whirling and springing towards the left_] Haven’t got one! -[_Teddy, Mrs. Pampinelli and Mrs. Fell rush after him._] - -SPINDLER and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - SPINDLER. Twiller! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, dear, dear! - -TWILLER. [_Rushing towards them from the left_] What’s the matter? - -SPINDLER and TEDDY, together. - - SPINDLER. Got a lead-pencil? - - TEDDY. Give him a lead-pencil, Ralph! - -TWILLER. [_Dropping his cane_] No! [_They fling him out of the way, to -the left, and rush on back to the stage manager._] What are you trying -to do, knock me off my feet! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Haven’t you got one, Mr. Twiller? - -SPINDLER and MRS. FELL, together. - - SPINDLER. [_To the stage manager_] Got a lead-pencil, old man? - - MRS. FELL. [_At Mrs. Pampinelli’s heels_] There’s one in my bag - somewhere! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, SPINDLER and TEDDY, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Mrs. Fell_] See what they’re doing out - there, Nelly! - - SPINDLER. [_To the stage manager_] Or a fountain-pen! - - TEDDY. [_To the stage manager_] They need it on the stage! - -MRS. FELL and STAGE MANAGER, together. - - MRS. FELL. [_Turning and rushing back towards the right door_] - Certainly, darling! - - STAGE MANAGER. [_Feeling in his shirt-pockets_] Well, now, wait a - minute, wait a minute! - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning with a despairing gesture, after having opened the -right door and looked in_] My dear, they’re not doing a thing, they’re -just sitting there! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to the left_] Hurry, boys! [_Turning to the -right_] Tell them to say something, Nelly! Anything at all! Something -about the weather! [_Nelly runs to the extreme right end of the flat. -Teddy and Spindler come rushing forward at the left._] Did you get it, -Teddy? - -TEDDY and SPINDLER, together. - - TEDDY. Yes! - - SPINDLER. Yes, he’s got it! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Indicating the left door_] Go on here, Teddy! [_He -grabs the knob of the door, but it won’t open._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Calling through the flats_] Say something, Paula! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You should never leave the stage during a scene, Teddy! - -TEDDY and MRS. FELL, together. - - TEDDY. [_Wrestling with the door_] Damn these doors! - - MRS. FELL. [_Calling through the flats_] Something about the weather! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Take hold of this, Mr. Spindler! [_He grabs the knob -of the door and Teddy runs across to the right door._] - -TEDDY. I’ll go on here! - -MRS. FELL. [_As Teddy goes through the right door_] If you can’t -use one door, use the other! [_The door closes after him; and Mrs. -Pampinelli turns and looks upon Spindler, who is still trying to get -the left door open._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You know, this is _all your fault_, Mr. Spindler. [_He -doesn’t look up._] You said you’d attend to all those properties! - -MRS. FELL. What’s the matter with the door, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Spindler_] Never mind it now. [_She moves towards -the center of the stage._] - -SPINDLER. We’d better get it open before somebody has to use it again. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Go away from it, I tell you! [_He walks away towards -the left, sulking._] It will probably open all right from the other -side. [_She comes forward slowly, touching her hair and relaxing -generally, then, suddenly, stands stock-still, and listens, wide-eyed. -She looks quickly at Mrs. Fell, who is carefully settling her necklace, -at the right door._] What’s wrong out there, Nelly? [_Nelly turns and -looks through the flats, then turns quickly to Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. FELL. I think he’s up! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Frozen to the spot_] Who? [_Nelly looks again, and -then back to Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. FELL. All of them! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Picking up her skirt and rushing towards the right -door_] Let me see! [_Nelly jumps out of the way, to the right, and -Twiller and Spindler rush to the left door and peek through. Mrs. -Pampinelli peeks through, and then speaks through the flats._] What’s -the matter, Teddy? Go over and get your hat and coat! [_Turning -frantically to Mrs. Fell_] He’s up in his lines! What is it? - -MRS. FELL. [_In a panic_] Up in his lines! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and MRS. FELL, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Speaking through the flats_] Go over and get your - hat and coat, Teddy! Don’t stand there like a jack! - - MRS. FELL. [_Handing the manuscript to Hossefrosse, who is at her - right_] Oh, find that for me, will you, Huxley! [_He takes the - manuscript from her and turns it over furiously, while Nelly opens - her lorgnon._] About page eleven, I think it is! [_She assists him in - finding the place._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What was the last line, Nelly? This is dreadful! - -MRS. FELL. Now, wait a moment, darling! Don’t get me nervous, or I’ll -_never_ be able to find it! [_Twiller and Spindler are in a panic of -suspense over at the left door._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. Here’s page eleven. - -MRS. FELL. Is that eleven? Well, now, here it is, right here-- Why, a-- -I’ll get you an envelope! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What’s the next? - -MRS. FELL. The next is--a--why a--I’ve got to go now-- - -MRS. FELL and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - MRS. FELL. It takes me nearly an hour to get home! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Calling through the flats_] I’ve got to go now! - -TEDDY and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - TEDDY. [_Beyond the flats_] I’ve got to go now! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Calling through the flats_] It takes me nearly an - hour to get home. - -TEDDY. It takes me an hour to get home! - -MRS. FELL. Are they all right? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming away from the flats_] Yes, they’re all right -now. But you’d better stand right here, I’m afraid of Paula. [_She -moves towards the left._] - -SPINDLER. [_Coming towards her_] You know, I could have _sworn_ I put a -pen and ink on that desk! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Imperiously_] Please, Mr. Spindler, don’t explain -anything! I am interested in results. [_She turns and moves back -again towards the right, and Spindler goes over to the left. Just as -he passes beyond the left door, the entire lock and knob fall to the -floor. He turns nervously, only to find Mrs. Pampinelli, who has turned -quite as nervously, looking at him dangerously._] - -SPINDLER. I didn’t _touch_ it! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Will you go away, before you ruin the entire -performance! [_He snaps around and goes over to the left and up towards -the back._] - -TEDDY. [_Opening the left door and swaying through_] Good night. [_He -is dressed in a brown sack-suit and wears tan shoes._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Good night, son. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Beyond the flats_] Good night, kid. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Going towards him_] You should _never_ walk off the -stage, Teddy, in the middle of a scene! [_He closes the door behind -him, and, pressing his hand to his brow, starts towards the left._] Do -something, no matter what it is! [_He falls backward in a full-length -faint. She catches him._] Oh, dear child! Mr. Spindler! Come here, Mr. -Twiller, Teddy’s fainted! [_Twiller, who has been standing over at -the left, and forward, rushes towards her; and Mrs. Fell, followed by -Hossefrosse, comes rushing from the right._] - -MRS. FELL. [_In a panic_] What’s the matter, Betty! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Take Teddy over to the door, Mr. Twiller, he’s fainted! - -TWILLER. [_Dropping his cane, in his excitement_] I _can’t_ take him -now, I’ve got a cue coming right here in a minute! [_Spindler comes -rushing down from the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Here, Mr. Spindler, take Teddy over to the door, where -he’ll get some air! He’s sick. Look at the color of him. [_She hands -him to Spindler, who half carries him up at the left; and she and -Twiller follow on behind them._] Hold on to him, now, Mr. Spindler. - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning back towards the right door, and addressing -Hossefrosse, who has returned to his former position down at the -right_] I always said he wasn’t strong enough for that part! [_She just -gets past the right door when it is frantically opened and Mrs. Ritter -thrusts her head out._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Breathlessly_] Mr. Twiller! [_The door closes again._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Running towards the left_] Mr. Twiller! They’re waiting -for you! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Rushing forward at the left_] What is it? - -MRS. FELL. [_In a perfect frenzy_] They’re waiting for Mr. Twiller! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Twiller! [_He snatches up his cane from the floor, -but the hook of it catches in the stage-brace, and he has considerable -yanking to do to get it loose. Mrs. Fell raps on the left door._] Go -on, Mr. Twiller, for Heaven’s sake! the stage is waiting! [_She pulls -the door open for him. He straightens his hat and then raps on the -wing beside the door._] Oh, go on! never mind rapping! that’s been -done! [_He steps through the door and she slams it after him, catching -his left arm and hand. The cane is in his left hand, and it falls at -Mrs. Pampinelli’s feet. She pulls the door open again to release his -arm; then gives the door a definite slam. A burst of applause greets -Twiller’s entrance. Mrs. Pampinelli is in a perfect wrath. She sweeps -across towards the right, and back again all the way across to the -left; then turns and starts back towards the right. As she passes the -left door she sees Twiller’s cane, and, realizing in a flash that he -will have need of it in his scene, she picks it up, opens the left -door slightly, and flings it in onto the stage. Then she continues on -towards the right, turns and crosses back again to the left, holding up -her skirt and bristling with temper._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Back at the right door, speaking to Hossefrosse, down at -the right_] How are my eyes? Instead of paying attention to his part! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming across to the right_] People rehearsing -their cues a thousand times, and then don’t know them when they hear -them! It’s positively disgusting! [_She turns and goes back again to -the left, turns, and starts back to the right. Hossefrosse tiptoes -towards her._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. What happened to Teddy, did he get sick out there? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, just a little reaction. [_Hossefrosse nods -comprehendingly._] He gives too much to the scene. He doesn’t -understand emotional conservation yet. [_Hossefrosse shakes his head -knowingly and returns to the right, and Mrs. Pampinelli steps to the -left door and listens._] - -FLORENCE. [_Just audibly, beyond the flats_] She’s waiting for my -very unpunctual husband. In fact, we are both waiting for him, to be -precise. But I’ve just been telling her I’m afraid we may as well give -it up, for he’s never kept an appointment in his life. I’m sorry he -isn’t here, if you wanted to see him. - -TWILLER. [_Beyond the flats_] I don’t know whether I wanted to see him -or not; it depends. - -FLORENCE. I don’t understand you. - -TWILLER. I don’t fully understand myself! [_There is a very general -laugh from beyond the flats. Mrs. Pampinelli looks anxiously at Nelly, -and Nelly looks up at her from the manuscript._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What was _that_? - -MRS. FELL. [_Not having caught what she said_] What? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What was that the audience was laughing at? [_Mrs. -Fell peeks through at the door where she is standing, then turns -desperately to Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. FELL. Half of Mr. Twiller’s mustache fell off! [_She looks through -the peek again. Mrs. Pampinelli puts her hand against her brow and -leans upon the stage-brace, the picture of tragedy. Mrs. Fell turns to -her again._] I don’t think the audience noticed it, he stuck it right -on again! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That doesn’t matter, there is absolutely no excuse for -it! He’s been here since four o’clock this afternoon! [_She crosses -towards the left and back again._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] What sort of a rumor was it, Mr. Rush, -if I may ask? - -TWILLER. [_Beyond the flats_] The usual kind. [_There’s another laugh -from beyond the flats, and Mrs. Pampinelli stands petrified, just below -the left door. Mrs. Fell turns quickly and peeks, then turns to Mrs. -Pampinelli._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Despairingly_] It fell off again! [_Mrs. Pampinelli raises -her fists and shakes them._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, why on earth hasn’t he brains enough to leave it -off! - -MRS. FELL. He has his hat on, too! [_Mrs. Pampinelli steps to the left -door and speaks through it._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Leave your mustache _off_, Mr. Twiller! Leave it -_off_!--And take off your _hat_, you’re inside. [_Hossefrosse tiptoes -over from the right._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. What’s the matter, did his mustache fall off? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, twice; and he keeps sticking it on again. [_He -shakes his head regretfully and tiptoes back to the right._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Beyond the flats_] It’s perfectly ridiculous! - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Too bad my husband isn’t here. - -TWILLER. [_Beyond the flats_] Yes, it is; I had counted upon seeing him. - -FLORENCE. I’m sure he’d be able to explain. - -TWILLER. Well, I hope he would!--the thing is damned annoying! [_Mrs. -Ritter gives an unearthly laugh, which is supposed to express derision. -Mrs. Fell looks up from her manuscript, and Mrs. Pampinelli smiles and -nods approvingly at her._] Even if _you don’t_ appreciate it! - -MRS. FELL. Wonderful. [_She turns and smiles and nods at Hossefrosse; -then they all listen again. The stage manager, who has arisen from his -chair at the sound of Mrs. Ritter’s disdainful laughter, comes forward -at the left, with his pipe in one hand and his newspaper in the other. -He has a puzzled, inquiring expression, and looks from one to the other -quizzically; but Mrs. Pampinelli has her back to him, Mrs. Fell is -looking at her manuscript, and Mr. Hossefrosse’s face is, as usual, -utterly expressionless, so he steps to the juncture of the back flats -with the side wings and peeks through, curiously. Then he returns to -his chair up at the left, shaking his head from side to side._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Beyond the flats_] I don’t know what it is, yet! - -TWILLER. [_Beyond the flats_] You know very well what it is! - -MRS. RITTER. You haven’t told us. - -TWILLER. You’re here, aren’t you! - -MRS. RITTER. Yes. - -TWILLER. Well, that’s it, exactly! [_Mrs. Pampinelli smiles -approvingly, and moves towards the right._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Calling Hossefrosse, who is engaged in studying his -lines from a paper, over at the right_] Mr. Hossefrosse. - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning to him_] Huxley! [_He looks up, and tiptoes -towards Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How is this hall to speak in? - -HOSSEFROSSE. Why, I shouldn’t say it was good. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I thought not. - -HOSSEFROSSE. It’s too big for the speaking voice. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a gesture_] You have to _project_ the tone, do -you not? - -HOSSEFROSSE. Oh, yes, absolutely. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Taking a step towards the back flat, and listening_] -I’m afraid they’re not hearing Paula at all. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Putting his fingers to his throat_] I’m using my upper -register almost entirely. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Glancing at him_] You’re very fortunate to know how -to do it. - -HOSSEFROSSE. Did it sound all right from back here? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, splendid, yes, Mr. Hossefrosse!--your voice is -beautiful. [_He raises his hand deprecatingly._] Really,--I was just -saying to Mrs. Fell, I’m so sorry there isn’t another act, that you -might sing a solo between them. [_He beams and deprecates again, -profusely, and turns to the right. Spindler comes down at the left and -towards Mrs. Pampinelli._] Really! Splendid. [_She sees Spindler._] -Where’s Teddy? - -SPINDLER. He’s gone over to the drug store. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. With his make-up on? - -SPINDLER. He said he wanted to get some aromatic spirits of ammonia. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You have a cue right here soon, haven’t you? - -SPINDLER. [_Taking the telephone-arrangement from his pocket, and -crossing towards the right door_] Where are they? - -MRS. FELL. [_Suddenly looking up from her manuscript_] Telephone, Mr. -Spindler! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. There it is now, ring it! - -SPINDLER. [_Shaking it desperately_] It won’t ring! [_Mrs. Fell turns -to Hossefrosse in desperation._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, MRS. FELL and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Shake it harder, it rang before! - - MRS. FELL. What’s the matter with the fool thing! - - HOSSEFROSSE. Hit it against something, Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. There’s something the matter with the battery! - -FLORENCE. [_Audibly, from beyond the flats_] Hello! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Relaxing_] Let it go,--it’s too late now. [_Spindler -continues to tinker with it._] You’ve missed every other cue, [_She -moves towards the left._] you may as well be consistent for the rest of -the evening. - -SPINDLER. [_Following her_] Well, good night! I can’t help it if the -electricity won’t work, can I? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning upon him furiously_] You should have -attended to it beforehand and then it _would_ work! [_Mrs. Fell waves -her hand at them, to be quiet._] - -SPINDLER. Well, My God! I can’t be in a half-a-dozen places at the same -time! - -MRS. FELL. Shush! [_Hossefrosse tiptoes up to her and deplores the -noise that Mrs. Pampinelli and Spindler are making._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No one is asking you to be in half-a-dozen places at -the same time! You’ve simply been asked to attend to your cues; and -you’ve missed every one you’ve had! - -MRS. FELL and HOSSEFROSSE, together. Shush! - -SPINDLER. You told me to take care of Teddy, didn’t you? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I told you to take him to the door! I _didn’t_ say to -take him all the way to the drug store! - -SPINDLER. Did you want me to let the man wander off somewhere by -himself, and maybe die! - -MRS. FELL. [_Waving her manuscript at them_] Shus--sh! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and SPINDLER, together. - - SPINDLER. Just for the sake of not missing a cue! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With bitter amusement_] There is very little danger - of his dying! And even if he did die, your duty is here! [_She points - to the floor with an imperative gesture. The right door is quietly - pushed open, and Twiller, with one-half of his mustache gone, pokes - his head out._] - -TWILLER. Shush! [_He glances from one side to the other, withdraws -his head, and quietly closes the door. Spindler crosses below Mrs. -Pampinelli, to the left, then turns and looks at her angrily._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning to Hossefrosse_] What did I tell you! Making more -noise out here than they are out there! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Still holding her gesture, but following Spindler -with her eyes_] Performances are never interrupted simply because one -of the artists happens to die! If you were a professional you’d know -that; but you’re not! [_She turns away from him, towards the right, -and, simultaneously, the left door is opened, almost striking her. -She raises her arm to protect herself. Mrs. Ritter is standing in the -doorway._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Speaking to Twiller, who is still beyond the flats_] -Look and see. [_The telephone-arrangement in Spindler’s hands suddenly -rings wildly._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to him frantically_] Oh, stop that thing! -[_Mrs. Ritter glances furtively over her left shoulder at Mrs. -Pampinelli. Mrs. Fell comes rushing over, motioning to Spindler to stop -the bell._] - -SPINDLER. [_Struggling with the bell_] I can’t stop it! [_Mrs. Ritter -hastily steps back through the door and pulls it to after her._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, then, take it outside, where they can’t hear it! -[_Spindler scrambles towards the back and out of sight at the left. -Mrs. Pampinelli starts back towards the right._] - -MRS. FELL. What’s the matter with that Spindler man, anyway! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I don’t know what’s the matter with him! I’ve given up -thinking about him. - -MRS. FELL. He acts to me like a person that wouldn’t be in his right -mind! [_She goes back towards the right door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing in the middle of the stage_] He’s simply -not a professional, that’s all. [_The left door opens again and Mrs. -Ritter is standing in it. Mrs. Pampinelli turns suddenly and looks at -her. Mrs. Ritter repeats her unearthly laugh, which again arouses the -curiosity of the stage manager, to the extent that he rises and comes -forward again at the left to get a look at her. Then he returns to -his chair, taking the door-slam with him, and standing it against the -wing._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Addressing Twiller, beyond the flats_] What about the -gentlemen? - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Jealous husbands, chiefly, aren’t they? -[_Twiller comes out through the left door, past Mrs. Ritter._] Didn’t -you want to leave a message for the Doctor, Mr. Rush? [_Twiller turns -right round and goes back to the door._] - -TWILLER. Who, me? - -FLORENCE. If you wish. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Having some difficulty seeing Florence over Twiller’s -right shoulder_] He might leave an apology. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Very much annoyed, and stepping close to the flat, -just to the right of the door_] Get out of the doorway, Mr. Twiller! - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Perhaps we haven’t convinced him of his -mistake. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and MRS. RITTER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Trying desperately to attract Twiller’s attention, - and becoming more emphatic_] Get out of the doorway, Mr. Twiller, - you’re covering Paula up! - - MRS. RITTER. [_Trying to talk to Florence over Twiller’s shoulder_] - Well, he’ll apologize to me, whether we’ve convinced him or not. - [_Mrs. Fell and Hossefrosse come over to see if they can be of any - assistance._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and TWILLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Becoming desperate_] Paula! [_Paula gives her a - nervous glance._] Will one of you go farther in! Mr. Twiller! - - TWILLER. [_Addressing Florence_] Have you convinced yourselves? [_He - gives Mrs. Pampinelli an irritated look over his left shoulder._] - -FLORENCE. That there has been a mistake? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Go farther in, one of you! [_Twiller gives her another -look, then speaks to Florence._] - -TWILLER. Yes! [_Mrs. Pampinelli can contain herself no longer, so, -picking up her skirt, and holding her hand against the left side of -her head, she darts across the open door, to the left, and speaks to -them around the edge of the door. Mrs. Fell, taking advantage of the -circumstance of Mrs. Pampinelli’s crossing, tiptoes up to Twiller -and strikes him on the left arm, quite viciously, with the rolled -manuscript. As a polite remonstrance, he shakes his left hand and foot -at her. But, she is not dismayed, and repeats the attack, even more -viciously. Then he turns and glares at her, and she turns away towards -the right, desperately._] - -FLORENCE. A great mistake. - -MRS. RITTER. Disappointed? Because, you know, we can _invent_ a -scandal, if you insist. - -MRS. FELL. Oh, what a man! What a man! - -FLORENCE and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - FLORENCE. I’m afraid _my_ presence here would be a bit incongruous, - even for that. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Go farther in, Mr. Twiller, don’t both of you stand - wedged in the doorway that way, it looks dreadful! - -TWILLER. [_Raising his right arm and resting his hand against the jamb -of the door, completely cutting off Mrs. Ritter’s view of Florence_] -That’s the rub. [_Mrs. Ritter stands on her tiptoes to try and see over -his arm, but being unsuccessful in this effort, stoops a bit, and tries -to look under his arm._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Take your arm down, Mr. Twiller! [_Mrs. Ritter reaches -up and quietly but firmly draws Twiller’s arm down. Mrs. Pampinelli -turns away to the left, disgusted._] My God! I never gave any such -direction as that! - -FLORENCE. Be at ease, Mr. Rush; if you were not mistaken I should have -known it,--and so should you; I’m not a tragic woman. Did you want to -leave any message for the Doctor, Mrs. Rush? - -MRS. RITTER. [_At Twiller’s right_] Yes,--[_Twiller turns his head -sharply and looks right into her eyes. She steps around back of him -and speaks to Florence over his left shoulder._] I wish you’d say that -my husband called--[_Twiller turns and looks into her eyes again, and -she steps around back of him again, to his right._] for my bill. [_She -reaches out and starts to draw the door to. Twiller, very ill at ease, -and awkwardly looking from side to side, not knowing just how to get -out gracefully, makes a full turn round to his right._] - -TWILLER. [_Raising his hat to Florence_] Good evening, Mrs. Arlington. -[_Mrs. Ritter closes the door, causing him to drop his cane; but he’s -too excited to notice it._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Standing at the right door, extending his hand_] Great, -old man! - -TWILLER. [_Dropping his gloves, as he shakes hands_] Thanks. [_He -continues to the right._] - -MRS. FELL. [_As he passes below her_] Splendid, Ralph! What happened to -your mustache? [_She laughs._] - -TWILLER. Can you beat that, Nelly! I couldn’t _coax_ that thing off -before I went on! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Holding the knob of the right door_] Shush! - -MRS. FELL. I don’t think the audience noticed it. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Turning to them_] Shush! [_Twiller goes down to the -right, and Mrs. Fell returns to her manuscript. The left door is flung -open. They all watch eagerly._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Inside the left door_] If you will, please? - -FLORENCE. Certainly. - -MRS. RITTER. Thanks. - -FLORENCE. Don’t mention it. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Trying to appear very bold_] Good bye. - -FLORENCE. Good bye. [_Mrs. Ritter gives another famous laugh, sways -through the door, tripping over the door-strip, closes the door, -looks at Mrs. Pampinelli, who is standing at the left, and bursts out -laughing. There is prolonged applause from beyond the flats._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Splendid, Paula! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Listening intently for his cue, from beyond the flats_] -Shush-shush! [_Mrs. Ritter looks at him, still laughing foolishly._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Waving at Paula_] Lovely, dear! - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli_] I forgot my umbrella. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Where is it? - -MRS. RITTER. I left it on the stage. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That doesn’t matter. [_Hossefrosse tries to silence -them by dint of impatient gesturing with his right hand._] - -MRS. RITTER. Oh, Betty, I think I saw Clara Sheppard out there! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Not really? - -HOSSEFROSSE. Shush! - -FLORENCE. [_From beyond the flats_] You can come out now, Clyde, -they’ve gone. [_Hossefrosse yanks the right door open, causing the -wood-wing at the right to topple and fall forward._] - -TWILLER. [_Leaping to catch it, before it hits Mrs. Fell_] Hold it! -[_Mrs. Fell hunches her arms and shoulders and screams._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Rushing over from the left_] What is it? - -TWILLER. [_Struggling to set the wing up in place again_] This thing -nearly fell! Just got it in time! [_Mrs. Fell moves out of the way, -over to the left, and Mrs. Pampinelli tries to assist Twiller._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Is it all right now? - -TWILLER. [_Brushing his hands and clothes, and coming forward at the -right_] Yes, it’s all right now. Just got it in time. - -MRS. FELL. [_Rushing up to Mrs. Ritter, who is coming towards her -from the left, and shaking her by the arms_] Oh, you were marvelous, -darling! [_Mrs. Ritter giggles foolishly._] I could just hug you! - -MRS. RITTER. I forgot my umbrella. - -MRS. FELL. Wonderful performance! [_She steps to the right door and -opens her manuscript. Mrs. Ritter moves a little to the right and -stands looking at the wood-wing._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning from a more precise adjustment of the -wood-wing_] Oh, Mr. Twiller! - -TWILLER. Yes? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How did you and Paula get wedged in that door that -way, over there a moment ago? - -TWILLER. [_On Mrs. Pampinelli’s right_] Oh, I’m awfully sorry about -that! I got a little twisted on-- [_Mrs. Ritter comes to Mrs. -Pampinelli’s left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Mrs. Ritter_] I was just asking Mr. -Twiller about that business in the door. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, MRS. RITTER and TWILLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Of course, it really didn’t matter very much. - - MRS. RITTER. Oh, my dear, wasn’t that just too dreadful! But I didn’t - know what to do! I knew there was something wrong, but I didn’t know - what it was! - - TWILLER. It was _my_ fault. I got a little twisted there in my - business-cues. I got up to the door a couple of speeches too soon. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I don’t think the audience noticed it. - -MRS. FELL. [_Frantically searching in the manuscript_] Shush! - -MRS. RITTER. Don’t you think they did, Betty? - -MRS. FELL. Shush! [_They all turn and look at her. Mrs. Pampinelli -steps towards her._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Is somebody up? [_Nelly simply silences her with a -gesture, and opens the door slightly._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Prompting through the door_] You’ve all been listening to -a lot of damned, cheap gossip! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_From beyond the flats_] You’ve all been listening to a -lot of damned, cheap gossip! - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Which should show you that people are -talking. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Somebody up? [_Nelly just shakes her head and -relaxes._] Mr. Hossefrosse? - -MRS. FELL. The “damned, cheap gossip” line. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Listening keenly_] Is he all right again? - -MRS. FELL. Yes, he’s all right now;--but it’s funny how that line has -sent him up at every performance. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to rejoin Mrs. Ritter and Twiller_] It’s -purely mental. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_From beyond the flats, violently_] No! [_The stage -manager, over at the left, jumps to his feet, causing the hammer to -fall from his pocket. The door-slam also falls, with a bang. The stage -manager has been dozing, and the thunder of Mr. Hossefrosse’s outburst -has considerably startled him. He comes forward at the left and looks -over at Mrs. Fell, to inquire the cause of the disturbance._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Motioning to him with her manuscript_] Shush! [_He looks -about and then goes back and picks up the hammer and door-slam. As he -resumes his seat he takes another glance around._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_As Mrs. Pampinelli comes forward again at the right, -between her and Twiller_] You know, I felt like a perfect fool standing -there in that door, but I couldn’t catch what you were saying. -[_Twiller laughs._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, dear, I _really_ don’t think the audience -noticed it. - -TWILLER. I hope they didn’t. - -MRS. RITTER. It must have looked awful. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, dear, it didn’t, really; you both covered it up -very nicely. - -TWILLER. I _tried_ to cover it up when my mustache fell off, too;--but -I had so many _lines_ right in there. I held it on as long as I could, -but I was afraid the audience was beginning to notice it. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I was so glad you had the presence of mind not to -attempt to stick it on again when it fell off the _second_ time. - -TWILLER. I was afraid to take the time. I had a cue right there; so -when it fell off the second time, I just--let it lie there. [_He makes -a casual gesture with his right hand._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That was quite right. - -TWILLER. [_Laughing a little_] It’s out there yet. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Giggling_] So is my umbrella. [_They all laugh._] Oh, -listen, Betty dear! I think I’ll just run upstairs for a minute and use -that telephone--see how Fred is. [_She starts towards the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Following her_] Yes, do, Paula. - -MRS. RITTER. I’m kind of worried about him. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. See if he’s regained consciousness yet. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Regardless of the fact that a play is in progress_] -Excuse me! - -MRS. FELL. [_Looking up from her manuscript_] Shush! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Certainly, dear. [_Twiller raises his hat towards -her, and she waves back at him. Then he goes up at the right and peeks -through the side wings._] Oh, Paula! - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning_] Yes, dear? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Be sure and get down in time for the curtains. - -MRS. RITTER. Oh, yes. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I imagine there’ll be a lot of flowers come over. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Starting up at the left_] I’ll be right down as soon as -I telephone. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, do, dear. [_Mrs. Ritter goes out at the left, and -Mrs. Pampinelli turns, touching her hair, and starts back towards the -right. Something falls beyond the flats. She stops dead, and listens. -Mrs. Fell turns quickly and peeks through the right door. Twiller comes -forward at the right and looks inquiringly._] - -FLORENCE. [_Just audible beyond the flats_] Then, you’ve allowed him to -think so. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What’s that? - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] Perhaps it is. - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli, and quite casually_] He -knocked the ash-tray over. [_Mrs. Pampinelli relaxes, and proceeds to -arrange the beaded ornaments on her dress, while Mrs. Fell moves a bit -farther over to the right and stands listening, manuscript and lorgnon -in hand. Twiller crosses to the left, below Mrs. Fell, and gathers up -his gloves and cane._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Beyond the flats_] You are deliberately misinterpreting -this situation! Yes you are! It’s perfectly ridiculous that a physician -cannot take a woman patient without being subjected to the whisperings -of a lot of vulgar scandal-mongers. - -FLORENCE. This is not a romantic age, Clyde. - -TWILLER. [_Coming to Mrs. Pampinelli’s right_] Was that inflection of -mine any better tonight on that line, “I’m puzzled.”? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, very much better, I was listening for it. - -TWILLER. [_Thoughtfully_] I never seemed to get the sense of that line -until tonight. It just seemed to--come to me, out there on the stage. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, that is a very significant line, Mr. Twiller, -coming where it does. [_Spindler comes wandering on from the left, -comes forward, looks about, and goes up to the side wing and looks -through._] - -TWILLER. I felt a great deal easier in that new business of -turning--down at the bookcase that you gave me last night. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a touch of smugness_] Much better. - -TWILLER. Did you notice it? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, of course, I couldn’t see it, I was here; but I -could sense it; and I could tell from the _tone_ of the scene that it -was better. [_Spindler moves over to the extreme left, about half-way -back, and, taking the refractory telephone-bell-arrangement from his -pocket, starts to tinker with it._] - -TWILLER. I just turned my head _this_ way, [_He turns his head sharply -to the right, keeping his body and shoulders perfectly rigid._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Excellent. - -TWILLER. [_Turning back to her_] Without moving my body. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Very good. - -TWILLER. Instead of making the full swing around, [_He makes a complete -swing around on his right foot._] the way I had been doing. [_Mrs. Fell -raises her lorgnon and looks over, curiously._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. A very good change. - -TWILLER. [_Very seriously_] I _felt_ that it got them. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, you see, it gave them the full benefit of your -expression. [_They nod agreement._] - -TWILLER. There’s a great deal of light and shade in that part, right in -there. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Deprecatingly_] Ho! my dear,--it is _all_ light -and shade;--even to the gestures. [_She makes a Delsartian movement -with her arms and hands. Mrs. Fell comes forward a little further and -observes the gesture keenly, through her lorgnon._] .... - -TWILLER. [_Rather troubled, and shaking his head a bit_] I’ve got to -put in a lot of work on _my_ gestures,--they’re bad, I know. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, I shouldn’t exactly say that your gestures were -bad; but I think, perhaps---- - -TWILLER. [_Leaning heavily on his cane_] I--ah--I think I try too hard -to be natural. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Smiling, biting her lip, and rolling her eyes_] -That’s exactly what I was going to say. Your gestures are, in a way, -_too_ natural. [_She gives a little mirthless laugh, and, out of -courtesy, he joins her._] Of course, that is a very virtuous fault; but -it isn’t pretty, is it? [_She laughs again._] - -TWILLER. No, it isn’t. [_The stage manager gets up, stretches himself, -and comes forward at the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And, after all, the function of art is to be pretty, -is it not? [_She repeats the floating gesture._] - -TWILLER. [_Trying to imitate her_] I don’t seem to be able--to _do_ -that, the way you do. [_Mrs. Fell feels the call, and, putting the -manuscript under her arm, tries rather unsuccessfully to copy the -movement._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, it is purely a matter of experience, Mr. Twiller. -But when you’ve been in the work as long as I have,--you’ll realize -that the bird’s-wing gesture is the _only_ gesture. [_She illustrates -again, for the edification of her disciples; and they attempt rather -faithfully to imitate her. The stage manager stands looking at them._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] But it has its compensations--You’ll -have your memories, [_There is a confusion of voices from beyond the -flats, and cries of “Sit down!”_] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Startled_] What’s that? [_Mrs. Fell rushes to the -right door and peeks through, Twiller goes over to the right and up, -and the stage manager rushes back to his post and disappears at the -left._] What is it, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning suddenly to Mrs. Pampinelli_] They’re carrying a -man out of the audience! [_She looks back again through the peek, and -Mrs. Pampinelli steps to the left door and peeks. Mrs. Sheppard sweeps -on up at the left, and comes forward. She is a slim brunette, in her -thirties, very attractive, and wearing the very last whisper in widow’s -weeds. She looks around, rather dramatically, then sees the ladies. -Mrs. Fell looks away from the peek-hole and sees her._] Betty, there’s -Clara! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Looking at Nelly_] What? - -MRS. FELL. [_Not wishing to be heard_] Clara Sheppard. [_Mrs. -Pampinelli turns quickly._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, Clara! [_She goes towards her, and Clara advances -a little._] I’m so glad to see you! [_Clara breaks down and weeps._] -Now, don’t do that, dear. You know Jimmy wouldn’t for anything in the -world want you to feel that way. So be brave, honey. It was splendid of -you to come here at all. And you look wonderful. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. I must look perfectly dreadful. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. You don’t look anything of the kind, darling, you look -perfectly beautiful. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. All I’ve done is cry. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I know just how you feel. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. But I didn’t want you to think I’d entirely forsaken the -cause. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Oh, my dear, we understood perfectly. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. But I just felt I _had_ to come here tonight. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Have you been out in front, Clara? - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Yes, I just _had_ to see it. I don’t think anybody saw -me; I came in late, and stood way at the back. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. They’d hardly see you. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. I don’t think so; I kept my veil lowered. Of course, I -should _love_ to have been right down in front, where I could get all -those _wonderful_ little subtleties. But, you know how it is,--I was -afraid people might not understand my being here at all. It’s only -three weeks, you know. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. They wouldn’t, either. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. That’s what I thought. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I don’t suppose there’s one person in _ten thousand_ -that has dramatic instinct enough to appreciate the way you feel. [_She -turns to the left door and listens._] - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Beginning to cry again_] The flowers in the lobby are -perfectly beautiful. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Still listening_] Yes, but I’m not having them -passed over the footlights tonight. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Drying her eyes_] No? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Except one bouquet for each of the ladies. It took up -too much time the last time. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Glancing about_] Where’s Paula? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. She’s upstairs, telephoning. She’s rather annoyed -about Fred, you know. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. What about him? [_Mrs. Pampinelli turns from the door -suddenly and looks at her._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] There is, my dear boy,--for lots of -people---- - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Why, my dear, didn’t you hear?--about him falling -downstairs last night? - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Oh, not really! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming towards her_] He fell almost the entire -flight. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Oh, dear me! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Poor Paula’s terribly upset. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. What was he doing, coming down the stairs? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, he was watching our rehearsal. You know, we held -the final rehearsal at Paula’s house last night--we couldn’t get this -place. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Solicitously_] Well, did he break any _bones_, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No,--Doctor Wentworth said--he was unconscious before -he hit the floor. He said the fall was the result of a collapse; and -that he would have fallen no matter where he had been. Unfortunately, -he just happened to be on the stairs. [_She turns back again to the -left door._] - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Retrospectively_] I _thought_ he looked pale when I -saw him out there tonight. [_Mrs. Pampinelli turns suddenly and looks -at her._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] And you have a very modern wife. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. When you saw him out here, you mean? [_She indicates -the audience beyond the flats._] - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Yes; he was standing out there at the back, right near -_me_. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming towards her again_] You _must_ be mistaken, -Clara. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. No, Betty, I’m quite _sure_ I saw him. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, the only thing _I_ know is that Paula said he -hadn’t regained consciousness when she left the house this evening at -seven-thirty. [_Mrs. Ritter comes on up at the back, from the left, and -comes forward._] Here’s Paula now! - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Turning round to her left_] Poor dear, she must be -terribly upset. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Extending her arms_] Clara, dear! [_Mrs. Sheppard bursts -into tears again._] This is so nice of you! [_They embrace each other, -and Mrs. Ritter starts to cry._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Isn’t she the sweet thing! [_The door at the right -opens._] - -MRS. FELL. [_To the ladies_] Shush! [_They all turn and look toward the -right door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With a gesture to Mrs. Ritter and Mrs. Sheppard_] -Shush! [_Hossefrosse comes out the right door._] - -FLORENCE. [_Beyond the flats_] It’s gotten very chilly. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Picking up his hat, cane and gloves from the chair_] -Yes, I know it has; I just came in a few minutes ago. - -FLORENCE. You had tickets for the theatre, didn’t you? - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Stepping back through the right door again_] Yes. - -FLORENCE. Why not take me?--for a change. [_The door closes._] You used -to--years ago. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Mrs. Ritter and Mrs. Sheppard_] Paula, -Clara says she thinks she saw Mr. Ritter out there tonight. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Standing at the left_] My dear, Jenny just told me over -the telephone that he regained consciousness a half-hour after I left -the house, and went out. Said she thought from the way he talked he was -coming here. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_In the center_] Yes, I was _sure_ I saw him standing -out there-- [_Turning to Mrs. Ritter_] I was just telling Betty. - -MRS. RITTER. I wonder if he’s out there yet. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. I don’t know, dear. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. How much of the play did you see, Clara? - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Why, I stayed just as long as I could, Betty. But when -Paula came on, and I heard those lines of mine again, I just couldn’t -stand it. [_She breaks down, and buries her face in her handkerchief._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Laying her hand on her arm_] I know, Clara--you’re -such an artist. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Pressing her hands against her bosom_] Everything just -seemed to come back on me. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I know how it is, dear. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Speaking directly to Mrs. Pampinelli_] I got thinking -how Jimmy would feel, if he could know, that _he_ was the cause of -standing in the way of my first _real_ opportunity. [_She cries -again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Raising her eyes to Heaven_] Perhaps he does know, -dear. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Turning to her again_] I mean, you know, he was always -so anxious about my getting into the work. And, somehow or other, I -always _felt_--that I could have done so much with that part. [_Mrs. -Ritter gives a vague little laugh, and Mrs. Sheppard turns to her -quickly._] Oh, of course, you were perfectly _adorable_ in it, darling, -I don’t mean that-- [_The left door opens, and Florence is standing in -it, about to come out._] - -MRS. FELL. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli, Mrs. Ritter and Mrs. Sheppard_] Shush! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning and going closer to the left door_] Excuse -me, Clara. - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Certainly, dear. [_Twiller comes forward at the right._] - -FLORENCE. [_Stepping through the door_] By the way, there was a Mr. -Robinson telephoned this morning, after you’d left the house-- [_Mrs. -Sheppard waves her handkerchief at Florence, and Florence replies -by quietly flicking her fingers at her. Then, still keeping in her -character, she moves slowly towards the right, leaving the door open -behind her._] He said something about a list being correct. - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Appearing in the doorway, carrying his hat, cane and -gloves_] Yes, I know. [_He reaches towards the left, beyond the flats, -as though he were pushing an electric-light button, then thrusts his -head through the door and says in a fierce whisper._] Lights. - -FLORENCE. Lights out! - -MRS. FELL and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - MRS. FELL. Put out the lights, somebody! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Lights, Mr. Stage Manager! [_The stage manager - appears from the left, at the back._] - -SPINDLER. [_Springing from the left, where he has been engaged in -trying to repair the telephone-battery_] Lights out! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Where are you! [_The stage manager reaches up and -pulls one of the switches on the switch-board at the back, and the -lights beyond the flats go out; then he disappears again at the left._] - -SPINDLER and HOSSEFROSSE, together. - - SPINDLER. I was right here! - - HOSSEFROSSE. [_Coming through the door_] Yes, I know,-- [_Closing the - door behind him_] I talked to him. [_Puts his hat on_] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, why aren’t you right _here_, where you should -be! Stand by for the curtain, now,--see if you can do that much right. -Surely, it’s the old story of the lark,--if you want a thing done, do -it yourself! Curtain! - -SPINDLER. [_Shouting_] Curtain! [_The curtain, beyond the flats, begins -to roll down, and there is thunderous applause._] - -MRS. FELL. [_To Florence_] Marvelous, darling! [_Florence waves at -her, turns, and rushes back towards the left._] Just lovely, Huxley! - -HOSSEFROSSE. Thanks. [_He turns to the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Lights up! Splendid, children! - -FLORENCE. I’m awfully glad to see you, Clara! - -MRS. SHEPPARD, MRS. PAMPINELLI, HOSSEFROSSE and SPINDLER, together. - - MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Shaking hands with Florence_] You were wonderful, - Flossie! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Take up the curtain, Mr. Stage Manager! - - HOSSEFROSSE. Thank you very much. - - SPINDLER. Lights up! [_The stage manager appears from the left and - pulls the switch again, and the lights beyond the flats go on._] - -SPINDLER. Take it up! [_The stage manager darts off again to the left. -The waltz-music on the piano, beyond the flats, begins again._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Lifting his hat and beaming_] Hello, Clara! - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Wonderful! [_He deprecates profusely. The curtain rises -again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Go on, Mr. Hossefrosse! [_He opens the right door, -removing his hat._] Wait a moment, Mr. Hossefrosse! Come on, Florence! -[_Hossefrosse stops uncertainly in the doorway and looks at Mrs. -Pampinelli._] It’s all right! Go on! [_She opens the left door._] Here, -go on here, Florence! [_They go on, bowing, and there is prolonged -applause._] Come on, Paula! go on here! [_The curtain descends again. -Paula scurries to the left door, giggling._] Where’s Mr. Twiller! - -TWILLER. [_Springing over from the right, where he has been talking and -laughing with Mrs. Fell_] Here I am! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to the left_] Take it up again, Mr. Stage -Manager! [_Turning back to Twiller, and opening the door_] Here, Mr. -Twiller, take Paula on! [_The curtain can be seen through the left -door rising again._] Come on, Paula! [_Twiller drops his cane, in -shifting it from his right hand to his left._] Hurry up! [_He snatches -the cane up, and, taking Paula by the arm, escorts her through the -door. But she trips over the door-strip, nevertheless. And there is -sustained applause. Mrs. Fell, over at the right, begins to preen -herself feverishly. Mrs. Pampinelli closes the door slowly, and stands -listening, smiling. Teddy appears up at the left and comes forward, -pressing his violet handkerchief to his brow, and looking very wan. -Mrs. Pampinelli turns to him._] Come on, Teddy, hurry up! They’re just -going on! How do you feel? [_The curtain descends._] - -TEDDY. Only fair. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Taking him by the right arm and urging him towards -the right_] Here, Nelly, go on for a bow with Teddy! [_Rushing back -towards the left_] Take it up again, Mr. Stage Manager! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, TEDDY and SPINDLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mr. Spindler! - - TEDDY. [_Opening the right door_] Come on, Nelly! - - SPINDLER. [_Half-way back, at the left_] Take it up! [_Rushing forward - at the left_] Yes? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and MRS. FELL, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Spindler_] Keep it going up and down till I tell - you to stop! And keep it up the next time till the gentlemen get the - flowers! - - MRS. FELL. [_Shrinking away a little more to the right of the door, - but still preening herself, almost hysterically, and breaking into a - little nervous laugh_] Oh, no, really, dear! I wouldn’t _think_ of it! - [_Teddy goes through the right door. The curtain can be seen rising - again; then the door closes after him; and Mrs. Fell continues - talking, to herself._] Why, what have I done that I should go on. I - wouldn’t mind if I’d taken some part in the play,--but I certainly - don’t see-- - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Rushing back to the right_] Go on, Nelly! what are -you waiting for? [_The curtain descends again. Mrs. Fell rushes towards -Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Handing Mrs. Pampinelli the rolled manuscript_] Hold this! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Hurry, dear! [_Mrs. Fell rushes to the right door, -settles herself finally, and flings the door open. The curtain is just -rising. And, placing one hand upon her bosom, dropping her eyes and -smiling, Nelly sways through the door, acknowledging the plaudits. -Mrs. Pampinelli, standing in the middle of the stage, applauds, also, -hitting the manuscript against her hand. The door closes after Mrs. -Fell. Mrs. Sheppard, over at the left, suddenly bursts into tears and -buries her face in her handkerchief. Mrs. Pampinelli turns quickly and -looks at her, then crosses towards her._] Do you want to take a bow, -Clara? - -MRS. SHEPPARD. Oh, no, thank you! [_Mrs. Pampinelli turns back to the -left door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Get those flowers, boys! Keep it up, Mr. Stage -Manager! Come on, Clara! go on for a bow! [_Reaches for Mrs. Sheppard’s -hand_] - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Giving Mrs. Pampinelli her hand, and allowing herself -to be drawn towards the right_] Do you think they’d understand, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Of course, they would, my dear! They know it isn’t -your fault that you’re not appearing! [_Mrs. Fell thrusts open the -right door. She has a basket of roses in her hand._] - -MRS. FELL. They’re _calling_ for you, Betty! [_Someone in the audience -can be heard calling Mrs. Pampinelli’s name._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Here, Nelly, take Clara on for a bow! - -MRS. FELL. [_Impatiently_] They’re calling for you, dear! [_Mrs. -Sheppard hastily throws her veil back, dramatically._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I’ll take one alone, afterwards! [_The applause swells -again._] Go on, Clara! - -MRS. FELL. [_Extending her right hand_] Come on, dear! - -MRS. SHEPPARD. [_Giving Mrs. Fell her left hand_] Oh, I don’t feel that -I should! [_Mrs. Fell keeps the door open, and Clara droops through, -bowing. Then Mrs. Fell closes the door and Mrs. Pampinelli turns to the -left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Keep it up, Mr. Spindler! - -SPINDLER. Keep it up! - -HOSSEFROSSE. [_Thrusting open the left door_] Mrs. Pampinelli! [_There -is a vision through the door of the various artists bowing towards the -back wall, all the ladies laden with flowers._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. All right, dear! I’m coming! [_Hossefrosse closes the -door, and Mrs. Pampinelli deftly touches her hair and flings her train -out to its full length behind her. Then she speaks in a loud voice, -so that she may be heard by those on the other side of the flats._] -Everybody stand to one side! Stand to one side, everybody! [_She pulls -open the left door and stands, smiling: then she steps through the -door; and, instantly, the curtain falls with a deafening crash. The -door closes after her. Nelly Fell gives a piercing scream. Spindler -comes rushing down from the left to the left door._] - -TEDDY. [_Shouting, beyond the flats_] Curtain! - -HOSSEFROSSE. Take up the curtain! - -TWILLER. Take it up! [_There is a babel of voices beyond the flats. -Then the left door is thrust violently open, and Mrs. Pampinelli looks -out._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Harshly, to Spindler_] What’s the matter with the -curtain? - -SPINDLER. [_In a panic of excitement_] Something’s broke! [_The stage -manager rushes on from the left and comes forward._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coming out through the door and calling to the stage -manager, whom she hasn’t seen yet_] Take up the curtain, Mr. Stage -Manager! - -STAGE MANAGER. I can’t take it up, the guy-rope’s broken! [_He goes up -at the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What? [_Mrs. Fell comes running through the right -door, carrying her basket of flowers, and crosses towards the left._] - -MRS. FELL and SPINDLER, together. - - MRS. FELL. What is it, Betty? - - SPINDLER. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli_] He says the guy-rope’s broken! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Brushing him aside, to the left, and rushing up at -the left_] My God! did anyone ever hear of such stupidity! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, MRS. FELL and SPINDLER, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. I’ll go on at the side here! - - MRS. FELL. What’s the matter, Mr. Spindler? - - SPINDLER. [_Shouting after Mrs. Pampinelli_] He says he can’t get it - up! [_Mrs. Sheppard comes through the right doorway with an armload - of American Beauty roses, and stands looking anxiously from side to - side. Teddy follows her out and stands at her right, discussing the - incident. Florence opens the left door and comes out. Her arms are - full of tiger-lilies. She moves to the right and speaks to Mrs. - Sheppard, nervously._] - -STAGE MANAGER. You can’t get through there, lady! [_Twiller comes out -the left door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI and STAGE MANAGER, together; - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. I must get through somewhere! - - STAGE MANAGER. That tormentor’s too narrow there! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI, STAGE MANAGER and MRS. FELL, together. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning frantically and rushing forward again at - the left_] I’ll try the other side! He says it’s too narrow there! - - STAGE MANAGER. I don’t know how you’re going to do it! - - MRS. FELL. [_As Mrs. Pampinelli sweeps between her and Spindler_] What - is it he says is broken, Betty? [_Mrs. Pampinelli rushes over towards - the right. She literally sweeps Twiller, who is in her path, out of - the way, and he falls backward over a stage-brace, onto the floor. - Mrs. Fell picks up her dress and runs after Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -SPINDLER. [_Outrunning Mrs. Fell_] The guy-rope! - -MRS. FELL. Well, why doesn’t he fix it! Betty! Betty dear! [_Mrs. -Pampinelli rushes up at the extreme right and tries desperately to find -a way of getting through; but everything is solidly masked. Hossefrosse -comes out the left door, and the stage manager comes forward at the -left and stands looking after Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -HOSSEFROSSE. What’s the matter, can’t Mrs. Pampinelli get her bow? - -STAGE MANAGER. She can’t get on any more from that side than she can -from this! [_Hossefrosse steps out through the door and looks toward -the right. The door closes after him._] There’s the same opening over -there as there is here! [_The applause beyond the flats, which has -kept up throughout the debacle, begins to die. Mrs. Pampinelli comes -sweeping back from the right with fire in her eye,--Nelly Fell and -Spindler still at her heels. She plants herself in the middle of the -stage and glares at the stage manager._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_In a voice shrill with anger_] My God! what’s the -matter with your curtain! - -STAGE MANAGER. [_Losing his temper_] The guy-rope’s broken! I’ve told -you that about a dozen times! [_He turns doggedly away to the left, as -though he were going up to his chair; but he stops short and finishes -his remarks to her over his left shoulder._] What do you want me to do, -write you a letter! [_The left door is pushed quietly open; and Mrs. -Ritter, with her face just visible above a perfect screen of roses, -looks blankly at the stage manager._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Vaguely_] There’s something the matter with the curtain. -[_The real stage curtain commences to descend._] - -STAGE MANAGER. [_Leaning towards her, assuming her general manner and -tone, and flipping his hand at her_] Y-E-E-S! [_He goes up towards his -chair, and Mrs. Ritter stands in wide-eyed astonishment._] - - -END OF THE ACT. - - - - -THE TORCH-BEARERS. - -ACT III. - - -NOTE: - -The setting for Act III is the same as for Act I except that the small -chair which Jenny brings on at the opening of the play is eliminated. - - -_Jenny is seated at the table below the piano, reading the Pictorial -Review. The door closes out at the right. She stops reading and -listens. Then resumes. Ritter wanders in from the right hallway, -wearing a black overcoat and a derby. The derby is a bit over one -eye and his cigar is at a comic angle. Jenny sees him and rises -immediately, circling around to the left to the middle of the room._ - - -JENNY. Oh, Mr. Ritter! [_He comes into the center-door and stands -there, looking at nothing._] I didn’t hear you come in, sir. Is the -show over? - -RITTER. [_Removing his gloves_] It’s all over town by this time. - -JENNY. [_Standing slightly left of the center of the room, facing him_] -Mrs. Ritter just telephoned a minute ago. - -RITTER. Is she alive? - -JENNY. Alive, Mr. Ritter? - -RITTER. [_Moving down to the table below the piano, and thrusting -his gloves into his overcoat pocket_] Because if she is, she’s got -a charmed life. [_Commencing to unfasten his coat_] The Seamen’s -Institute! God help them on a night like this. - -JENNY. She was anxious to know if you were still unconscious. - -RITTER. [_Taking off his overcoat_] If she telephones again, tell her -yes. [_He is in a tuxedo-suit._] - -JENNY. [_Crossing to him and helping him with the coat_] Ain’t you -feelin’ well again, Mr. Ritter? - -RITTER. No, Jenny, I’m not. [_He hands her his derby._] - -JENNY. [_Taking the hat and coat to the partition-seat above the -piano_] Well, I’m sure I’m sorry, sir. - -RITTER. [_Removing his scarf_] And after that exhibition tonight,--I -don’t think I ever shall feel exactly well again. - -JENNY. [_Coming down at his left and passing back of him_] Was it a sad -play? - -RITTER. [_Handing her his scarf, and speaking with measured -conviction_] The saddest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. - -JENNY. I allus cry when a show is sad. - -RITTER. Is that so? - -JENNY. Yes, sir; and a funny thing about me is--the sadder it is the -more I cry. - -RITTER. You’d have had a big night if you’d been with me. [_She passes -back of him with the scarf, to put it with the other things._] You’d -better leave those things here, Jenny, I may leave town again tonight. - -JENNY. I’ll leave them right here. [_She turns from an arrangement of -the things and comes forward to the middle of the room._] Did they clap -much when Mrs. Ritter finished? - -RITTER. [_Still standing above the table near the piano, clipping the -tip of a cigar which he has taken from his pocket_] I didn’t wait for -the finish; they carried me out. - -JENNY. I’m dyin’ till she gets home, for I know exactly how she felt. -[_He looks at her keenly--she is looking straight ahead._] - -RITTER. Have you been on the stage, too, Jenny? - -JENNY. [_Turning to him_] No, sir, I haven’t, Mr. Ritter, not lately. -But when I was at home in England I used to go on every once in a -while. For a bit of a change, you know. - -RITTER. Yes, I know. - -JENNY. We had a little club in the town I lived in, and we used to give -a show twice a year. [_Ritter nods slowly and comprehendingly._] I -always took off the comical parts. - -RITTER. How is it they didn’t get you into this show tonight? - -JENNY. Oh, I haven’t been on for a long time now, Mr. Ritter. My -husband put a stop to it. [_She looks away off._] - -RITTER. [_Turning to her_] What was the matter? - -JENNY. [_Turning to him, suddenly_] He died. - -RITTER. [_Replacing his penknife_] I see. - -JENNY. And I never felt much like cuttin’ up after that. [_The -telephone-bell rings. She turns quickly and starts for the -center-door._] - -RITTER. [_Moving over towards the mantelpiece_] See who that is, Jenny. - -JENNY. [_Hurrying out into the left hallway_] Yes, sir. - -RITTER. [_Getting a match from the table below the mantelpiece_] -Anybody for me, I’ve gone into permanent retirement. - -JENNY. [_At the telephone_] Yes? [_He listens narrowly._] Mr. Ritta? -[_He makes a rapid movement towards her._] Oh, Mrs. Ritta? - -RITTER. [_In a subdued tone_] Who do they want? - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] No, mam, she hasn’t got home yet. -[_Lowering the telephone and speaking to Ritter_] Mrs. Ritter. - -RITTER. [_Casually_] Who is it, the police? [_He lights his cigar._] - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] All right, Mrs. Livingston, I’ll give -her your message as soon as she comes in. You’re more than welcome I’m -sure. [_She hangs up and comes to the center-door._] - -RITTER. [_Looking at her_] Mrs. Livingston? - -JENNY. Yes, sir. - -RITTER. What did she want? - -JENNY. She sez she wanted to congratulate Mrs. Ritter on her perfect -performance tonight. - -RITTER. Did she see the show? - -JENNY. She didn’t say, sir. - -RITTER. [_Conclusively, and crossing in front of her down to the window -at the right_] She didn’t see it. If any of those women come back here -with Mrs. Ritter, Jenny,--say that I’m not home yet, do you understand. - -JENNY. [_Settling the overcoat on the partition-seat_] Yes, sir. - -RITTER. [_Looking through the window_] And that you haven’t seen -anything _of_ me. - -JENNY. Yes, sir, Mr. Ritter, all right. - -RITTER. If my wife’s alone, let me know as soon as she comes in. - -JENNY. Yes, sir, I will. [_The telephone-bell rings, and she hurries -out to answer it._] - -RITTER. [_Half turning from the window_] You haven’t seen anything of -me, remember. - -JENNY. No, sir. [_Into the telephone_] Yes, sir? [_He listens, without -turning._] No, sir, she hasn’t got home yet. [_She lowers the telephone -and looks at him, wide-eyed. He feels that she’s looking at him and -turns suddenly._] - -RITTER. [_Taking a step towards her, below the piano_] What is it? - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] No, sir, _he_ hasn’t got home yet neither. - -RITTER. [_Apprehensively_] Do they want me? [_She nods yes._] Who is -it? [_She nods that she doesn’t know._] Police Headquarters I’ll bet -a ten dollar note! [_He crosses down below the table at the left and -around up to the mantelpiece._] Tell them that I had absolutely nothing -to do with her going on! That I didn’t hear about it until last night! -[_He crosses back again down towards the table below the piano._] And -that I’ve been unconscious ever since. - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] The Times? - -RITTER. [_Stopping above the table_] My God, the newspapers have got -hold of it! - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] Well, just a minute, please. - -RITTER. [_Turning suddenly to her_] Tell them she did it on a bet! - -JENNY. The Times newspaper wants to know if Mrs. Ritter has a -full-length photograph of herself for the morning paper. - -RITTER. [_Emphatically, and going out through the center-door into the -right hallway and up the stairs_] Tell them NO! - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] Hello. - -RITTER. But that she’ll have some taken as soon as she gets out of -jail. [_He goes through the arched doorway at the head of the stairs._] - -JENNY. [_Into the telephone_] Why, I couldn’t say, sir, whether Mrs. -Ritter has a photograph of herself or not, sir; but I’ll give her your -message as soon as she comes in. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_In the right hallway_] Hurry, Theodore. - -JENNY. [_Still at the telephone_] You’re more than welcome I’m sure. -[_She hangs up and hurries in through the center-door, glancing out the -right hallway as she comes and, gathering up Mr. Ritter’s overcoat, -derby and scarf, hurries over above the table at the left and out._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_In the right hallway_] Be careful of those jonquils. -Now, be careful, Theodore! Now go back and fetch the others. [_Coming -into view, and seeing Jenny coming in again at the left door_] Oh, -you’re up, Jenny, aren’t you! [_She comes through the center-door, -carrying her fan and an armload of orchids and red chrysanthemums, and -wearing an enormous flowing cape of ruffled black lace, touched all -over with tiny circular sequins in gold. Her dress, of course, is the -ruby-velvet one of the preceding act._] - -JENNY. Yes, mam, I’m up. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Hastening to the table below the piano_] I’m so -glad; I hope I haven’t roused you. [_She puts her fan on the piano and -sets all the flowers down on the table._] Will you go out and get those -flowers from my chauffeur, Jenny? - -JENNY. [_Going out through the center-door into the right hallway_] -Yes, mam. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Arranging the flowers on the table_] He’s set them -right down there in the hallway. I came right on in when I found the -door unlocked; I was afraid you’d be asleep. - -JENNY. No, mam, I was waitin’ up. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Sweeping around to her left and up to the -center-door_] Well, that’s perfectly angelic of you I’m sure. [_She -stands on the left side of the center-door and looks out into the right -hallway._] Can you manage, dear? - -JENNY. [_Appearing from the right_] I think so. [_She struggles through -the center-door carrying an enormous horseshoe, made of red and white -carnations and ferns. It is at least four feet high, set upon an easel, -and across the front of it is a strip of white-satin ribbon ten inches -wide with the word “SUCCESS” inscribed upon it in blue-velvet letters. -She is also carrying a huge basket of jonquils, and a star made of -white pansies. This last touch is fastened upon a violet easel._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Let me help you, child. [_She takes the basket of -jonquils and the star of pansies from Jenny._] Now, set that right down -there. [_She indicates a point in front of the mantelpiece for the -horseshoe, and Jenny crosses in front of her with it._] I want Mrs. -Ritter to see it _first_, when she comes in,--it’s so appropriate. -[_She sets the basket of jonquils on the piano._] I suppose we can put -these down anywhere here until she comes, can’t we? [_She sets the -easel of pansies down on the floor at the right of the table below the -piano._] - -JENNY. [_Having set the horseshoe down in front of the mantelpiece_] -This way, Mrs. Pampinelli? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. No, dear, _facing_ the door. - -JENNY. Oh, I see. [_She turns it round facing the center-door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That’s it. I want it to catch her eye as she comes in. -And now will you go back and fetch the others, Jenny? - -JENNY. [_Hurrying out through the center-door_] Yes, mam. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Gathering up the chrysanthemums from the table_] -And these chrysanthemums, [_She sweeps across towards the mantelpiece -and turns to her left, strewing the chrysanthemums through the -center-door and down toward the table at the left._] I’ll just strew -in her pathway. [_Jenny comes in from the right hallway carrying a -huge anchor of vivid red roses, with a broad band of navy-blue ribbon -running diagonally across it, and the words “SEAMEN’S INSTITUTE” in -white-velvet letters. She stands right in the center-door, holding it, -waiting for instructions as to its disposition from Mrs. Pampinelli. -But Mrs. Pampinelli is lost in admiration of it, standing just to -the left of the center-door._] Now, set that right down here, Jenny. -[_She indicates a point at the extreme left, below the door, and Jenny -hastens to place it there, setting it down half-facing the center-door; -and Mrs. Pampinelli stands up at the center-door admiring it._] Hope! -[_Jenny turns to her and gives a faint little laugh._] Hope, for -the success [_She indicates the horseshoe with a gesture._] of our -enterprise. [_They both laugh, and Mrs. Pampinelli steps quickly down -to the table below the piano and picks up the orchids._] And these -orchids, I think I shall just put right here on this table. [_She -crosses to the table below the casement-window and puts them down; then -straightens up and sighs._] Ho, dear me, I’m warm! [_She crosses back -between the piano and the table below it, picking up her fan as she -goes._] - -JENNY. [_Moving up and across back of the table at the left, towards -the center of the room_] ’Tis a bit warm. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Fanning herself, as she moves towards the middle of -the room_] And then I hurried so,--foolishly. - -JENNY. Did everything go along all right? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Magnificently, my dear child! And Mrs. Ritter was a -positive sensation. - -JENNY. Did she get all these flowers? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Deprecatingly_] Ho! This isn’t the half of them! We -sent three automobiles full to the various hospitals. And Mrs. Fell’s -car was still taking them when I left. [_Jenny shakes her head from -side to side in wonderment._] These are just a few that we rescued for -Mrs. Ritter. [_She moves towards the center-door._] Sort of a little -surprise for her, you know, when she gets home. [_She stands looking -out into the right hallway, expectantly._] - -JENNY. They’re certainly ’andsome. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. She doesn’t even know that I’ve brought them. - -JENNY. Is she comin’ right home, do you know, Mrs. Pampinelli? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Jenny_] Why, I _expect_ her, yes. I was -afraid she’d get here ahead of me. She was waiting for Mr. Ritter. -[_Coming forward a little_] We heard at the hall that he was there, and -she thought probably he’d come back and pick her up. He hasn’t _come_ -home, has he? - -JENNY. No, mam, I haven’t seen anything of him. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Laughing a little, indulgently, securing a hair-pin, -and moving over towards the right_] Poor man! His wife’s success has -very likely gone to his head. [_She glances out the window._] - -JENNY. He went out of here about eight o’clock. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning and coming back towards Jenny_] Yes, we were -so surprised to hear that he was there at all. Because Mrs. Ritter had -said that he hadn’t regained consciousness up to the time she left the -house. - -JENNY. He hadn’t, neither. I thought I ’ad two ’eads on me when I came -in and saw him puttin’ on ’is ’at and coat. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, did he seem all right? - -JENNY. Yes, he seemed right enough; but he was awful pale-lookin’. And -a couple a times I spoke to ’im, he gave me kind of a funny answer. -So I got a bit frightened, you know; and I asked ’im if he knew where -he was goin’. And he said, “Yes,” that he was goin’ to see “The -Torch-Bearers.” Kind a flightly, you know. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, he would be, naturally. - -JENNY. So then,--when he got to the door, he turned around--and he sez -to me--“Jenny!--if you never see me again,--I want you to know I _died_ -in the cause of Art.”--And he went out. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. He was probably rambling a bit. - -JENNY. But, he walked straight enough. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning suddenly to the center-door_] I think I hear -a machine, Jenny. - -JENNY. [_Stepping across quickly below the table to the -casement-window_] I’ll see. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Do quickly, dear. - -JENNY. Is Mrs. Fell comin’ back tonight? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Looking out eagerly into the right hallway_] Yes, -she’s bringing the rest of the flowers. I’ve sent my car back for her. - -JENNY. [_Turning abruptly from the window and hurrying across below the -piano towards the center-door_] Here’s Mrs. Ritta now! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Is Mr. Ritter with her? [_Intercepting Jenny_] No, -don’t go out, Jenny! I want to hear what they say when they see the -flowers. [_Turning her round by the shoulder and indicating the door -down at the left_] You go into the other room there, and I’ll hide -here-- [_She moves forward at the right and across below the piano._] -in this window. - -JENNY. [_Hurrying towards the door at the left_] All right, mam. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Stopping near the window and turning to Jenny_] And, -Jenny dear! - -JENNY. [_Turning at the left door_] Yes, mam? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Don’t come out--until you hear _me_ say “SURPRISE!” - -JENNY. All right, Mrs. Pampinelli, I won’t. [_Mrs. Pampinelli steps -into the alcove of the window, then turns again to Jenny._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Now, remember, Jenny,--“SURPRISE!” - -JENNY. Yes, I know. [_She closes the door, and Mrs. Pampinelli conceals -herself behind the window-drapery. There is a slight pause; then Mrs. -Ritter hurries in from the right hallway, carrying a marvelous bouquet -of American Beauty roses. She comes in through the center-door and -stands, looking, with a touch of astonishment, at the horseshoe. Then -her eyes wander down to the anchor; and then over to the easel at the -right. She is gowned in a very pale shade of gray lace, with gray-silk -slippers and stockings; and around her head she is wearing a wreath -of laurel in gold, touched with brilliants. Her cloak is of black -chiffon-velvet, with a cape collar of black fox. She slides this cloak -from her shoulders onto the partition-seat at the right, and starts -across towards the door at the left._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Opening the door_] Are you up, Jenny?--Jenny! [_She -closes the door again and crosses above the table at the left and over -to the one below the piano. Here she sets down a few of the roses, then -decides there is not sufficient room for all of them, and starts across -to the table at the left. Ritter appears at the head of the stairs and -starts down slowly. She sees him, and stops dead._] Fred! [_She moves -up towards the left of the center-door._] You don’t mean to tell me -you’ve been home here,--and there I’ve been waiting at the hall since -before ten o’clock. [_He wanders in through the center-door and leans -against the piano, holding a lighted cigar in his hand._] Why didn’t -you come back for me? Irene Colter had to bring me home. [_She starts -to cry._] Clara Sheppard _told_ me she saw you there, so, naturally, I -waited for you. And when you didn’t come back, why, of course, right -away--I thought something had happened to you. [_She cries into her -handkerchief._] - -RITTER. [_Without moving, and in a toneless voice_] Something _has_ -happened to me. [_She looks at him apprehensively._] - -MRS. RITTER. What happened to you, Fred? - -RITTER. [_Stonily, and moving down and across below the piano_] I’ve -seen you act. - -MRS. RITTER. What? [_He raises his left hand solemnly and continues to -the corner of the piano nearest the window, where he leans. She moves -down a bit after him._] What’s the matter, Fred,--did you have another -of those spells that you had last night? - -RITTER. Yes; only a great deal worse. - -MRS. RITTER. Oh, isn’t that dreadful! What do you think it is, dear? - -RITTER. [_Turning slightly, and glancing at the violet easel and over -at the anchor_] I don’t know what it is. It looks like a _wake_ to me. -Who’s dead? - -MRS. RITTER. Dead? - -RITTER. What are all these flowers doing here? - -MRS. RITTER. Why, I imagine some of the ladies have been here from the -show--to fix up a little surprise for _me_. - -RITTER. They should have lighted a few candles, and completed the -effect. - -MRS. RITTER. But, these are just presents, Fred, from friends of ours. - -RITTER. [_Straightening up, and moving across below the table_] They -are tokens of sympathy, that’s what they are. [_He crosses up and over -above the table at the left._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Following him over_] But, there’s nobody _dead_, dear! - -RITTER. [_Raising his left hand solemnly again_] Oh, yes there is! Oh -yes! - -MRS. RITTER. _Really_, dear! [_He turns, just back of the arm-chair, -and pins her with a look._] - -RITTER. You’re dead. [_She stands perfectly still, looking at -him, wide-eyed._] You died tonight,--down there on that stage at -Horticultural Hall. And so did everybody that was up there with you. - -MRS. RITTER. [_With a troubled, uncomprehending expression_] Why, how -could I be dead, dear,--when I’m here,--talking to you? [_He stands -looking straight ahead, smoking. She bursts out crying, and turns to -the partition-seat at the right of the center-door._] Oh, Fred! it’s -terrible to see you this way! - -RITTER. [_Sweeping his hand across his brow and starting across below -the table towards the right_] The human brain can only stand so much. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Setting her roses down on the partition-seat_] You’ve -just been working yourself to death! But nobody could tell you -anything! [_She starts out into the left hallway for the telephone._] - -RITTER. [_Stopping over near the window and turning_] What are you -going to do? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning to him_] Why, I’m going to call Doctor Wentworth -of course. - -RITTER. What for? - -MRS. RITTER. Why, because you _need_ him! - -RITTER. [_Taking a step or two towards her, between the piano and the -table below it_] I won’t see any doctor, now! - -MRS. RITTER. [_Coming back through the center-door_] Now,--listen, -Fred-- - -RITTER. [_Raising his hand, and crossing to the left_] I won’t see any -doctor, I tell you--there’s nothing he can do for me: [_He stops above -the arm-chair at the left and rests his hand upon the back of it._] -it’s all been done. There’s nothing left for me but to get out of town. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Following him over_] Well, just let him come over and -_see_ you, dear. - -RITTER. What would I let him come over and _see_ me for? There’s -nothing the matter with me. - -MRS. RITTER. Why, you’re as pale as a ghost! - -RITTER. That’s nothing--I’ve had a scare. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Solicitously_] What scared you, dear? [_He turns and -looks at her._] - -RITTER. I was afraid every minute somebody was going to shoot _you_. - -MRS. RITTER. [_After a bewildered pause_] But, why should anybody shoot -_me_, darling? - -RITTER. For trying to act. [_He moves forward and across in front -of the table, to the right,--she watching him blankly._] Making a -laughing-stock of yourselves in front of the community. - -MRS. RITTER. Didn’t you like me, Fred? - -RITTER. [_Casually, as he nears the window_] I did till I saw you act. -[_He turns around to his right and leans on the piano. She moves over -towards the table below the piano._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Rather helplessly, as the situation dawns upon her_] -Why, Mrs. Pampinelli said I was a great artist. - -RITTER. [_With vast amusement_] Ha! [_Then he looks at his wife and -speaks very exactly._] Mrs. Pampinelli is perhaps the world’s greatest -_NUT_. [_Mrs. Pampinelli, standing back in the widow-alcove at the -right, in a state of puzzled irresolution, reacts, physically, to -this last observation, causing an abrupt movement of the drapery. -But, neither Ritter nor his wife are looking in that direction at the -moment._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Laying the remaining roses on the table_] She says I -ought to go on with the work. - -RITTER. [_Dryly_] She meant the housework. [_He replaces his cigar in -his mouth._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Looking at him with a touch of resentment_] No, she -didn’t mean anything of the kind. She says I ought to go to New York. -[_He takes the cigar from his mouth and looks at her keenly._] - -RITTER. And what would you do when you’d _get_ there? - -MRS. RITTER. Why, I’d go on the stage, of course. - -RITTER. [_Very level_] How? - -MRS. RITTER. Why, I’d go to the people that have charge of it. - -RITTER. And, do you think they’d put you on the stage simply because -you wanted to _go_ on it? - -MRS. RITTER. Well, Mrs. Pampinelli could give me a letter-- - -RITTER. Hum! - -MRS. RITTER. So that I’d have it when I’d _get_ there. - -RITTER. That’d do you a lot of good. You’d find a _thousand_ there -ahead of you, with letters from Mrs. Pampinellis. Nobody in New York -knows Mrs. Pampinelli; and if they did, it’d probably _kill_ any -chance that a person _might_ have otherwise. [_Mrs. Pampinelli can -contain herself no longer. She flips the window-drapery aside with -a deft movement and stands looking at Ritter, from a great height. -Mrs. Ritter, who is facing the window, utters an abrupt shriek of -astonishment. Then Ritter turns, rather casually, to see the cause of -his wife’s agitation, and finds himself looking into the frozen eyes of -Mrs. Pampinelli. He regards her rather impersonally, and then quietly -reaches up and secures his collar and tie. She steps majestically from -the window-alcove and moves a bit nearer to him, still holding him with -an icy stare._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_After a devastating pause_] You creature. - -RITTER. [_Turning smoothly away, to his left, as though he had been -suddenly struck by something, in the right eye_] Another _actress_. -[_He moves along a few steps to the left, in front of the table, then -turns and speaks to Mrs. Pampinelli over his left shoulder._] What did -you do, come through the window? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I’ve been _hiding_ here. - -RITTER. [_Resuming his walk over to the left_] I don’t blame -you,--after that show; I’ve been doing the same thing myself. [_He sits -in the arm-chair over at the left._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Who has been standing in a panic in the middle of the -room, staring wide-eyed at Mrs. Pampinelli_] Oh, Mrs. Pampinelli,--you -_didn’t_ hear what he’s been saying? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Every word. [_She very regally deposits her fan upon -the piano, and Mrs. Ritter, turning to Ritter, makes a long, moaning -sound._] - -MRS. RITTER. Now, Fred Ritter, you see what you’ve done! [_She bursts -into tears, and comes down to the chair at the left of the table below -the piano and sits down._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Moving to a point above the table_] And I wouldn’t -have missed it. I’ll know how to regard this gentleman in the future. I -came home hurriedly with these few flowers as a little acknowledgment -of the appreciation your work deserved; and all I hear is abuse; and a -very crude, but very venomous attempt at satire. [_Mrs. Ritter weeps -aloud._] Control yourself, darling, I wouldn’t please him. - -RITTER. [_Quietly_] She’s acting again. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Withering him with a glance_] You barbarian! [_To -Mrs. Ritter_] Pull yourself together, dear. - -MRS. RITTER. Oh, I just _can’t_, Mrs. Pampinelli. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Addressing Ritter directly, and indicating Mrs. -Ritter_] Look at the state of emotion you’ve got this poor girl into! - -RITTER. She’s an emotional actress. [_Mrs. Ritter bursts forth again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Savage! [_To Mrs. Ritter_] Let me get you something, -darling. - -MRS. RITTER. Call Jenny. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, dear. [_She crosses to a point just to the left -of the middle of the room, then stops and calls toward the door at -the left._] Jenny dear, _SURPRISE_! [_Ritter listens, with a puzzled -expression._] Come here, Jenny,--SURPRISE! [_Ritter turns around in the -chair, to his right, and looks at her curiously. She meets his eyes -with steady bitterness. Then he shifts his gaze to his wife._] - -RITTER. Why didn’t you take your make-up off? - -MRS. RITTER. I forgot it,--I was so worried about you. - -RITTER. You look like a Dutch squaw. [_She bursts into tears again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Hastening over to her_] Let her alone! Don’t mind -him, Paula. - -RITTER. She’s all made up! and it’s coming off. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, what if it is? - -RITTER. [_Settling back into the arm-chair_] I don’t want to be -reminded of that show. [_Jenny enters hurriedly from the door at the -left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Mrs. Ritter is ill, Jenny. [_Jenny comes quickly -across, above the table at the left._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Half turning to her_] My smelling-salts, Jenny. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing back of Mrs. Ritter_] Her smelling-salts, -dear. - -JENNY. [_Hurrying out through the center-door_] Yes, mam. - -MRS. RITTER. They’re in my bureau-basket. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning and calling after Jenny_] In her -bureau-basket, Jenny. - -JENNY. [_Running up the stairs_] Yes, mam, I know where they are. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Gathering up the roses from the table_] Let me take -these flowers out of your way, dear. You’ve been treated abominably. -Although your husband’s attitude is entirely consistent with that -of the average husband’s, after his wife has distinguished herself. -[_Ritter makes a little sound of amusement, and she glares at him._] -And any observations of Mr. Ritter’s to the contrary, you _did_ -distinguish yourself tonight, Paula. [_She turns to her right and puts -the roses on the piano._] - -RITTER. [_Sitting away down in the arm-chair, smoking_] So did the -Cherry Sisters. [_Mrs. Ritter weeps again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning back again from the piano to Mrs. Ritter_] -We are not talking to you at all, sir. [_Mrs. Ritter has a slight -coughing spell._] - -MRS. RITTER. Will you get me a drink of water, please? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Certainly, darling, where is it? - -MRS. RITTER. You’ll find it just inside the breakfast-room. [_Mrs. -Pampinelli sails across the room towards the left door. Just as she -is passing back of Ritter’s chair, he turns and looks at her, and the -excessive grandeur of her manner causes him to burst out laughing. But -she simply freezes him with a look and goes out through the left door. -He continues to laugh; and Mrs. Ritter, not having seen the cause of -his laughter, stops crying and turns and looks at him, very troubled._] -Fred Ritter, you’re acting to me tonight--just like a man that’d be -losing his mind! [_He looks over at her._] I really thought that was -what was the matter with you when I first came in! - -RITTER. [_Very confidentially_] Listen--When I didn’t lose my mind -watching that show tonight, I couldn’t go nutty if I tried. - -MRS. RITTER. Well, if anybody else comes here tonight, you just keep -that kind of talk to yourself. There were lots of people there that -thought it was wonderful. Look at all these flowers. - -RITTER. These flowers were all paid for long before anybody saw that -show. [_There is a staccato tap at the front door-bell. Jenny is -hurrying down the stairs with the smelling-salts._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Rising, and trying to fix herself up a bit_] Well, -that’s only your opinion. [_She starts for the center-door._] This -is very likely Nelly Fell. [_Turning back to him as she nears the -center-door_] Now, don’t you say anything to _her_, remember! She likes -you. - -MRS. FELL. [_In the right hallway_] No, I think I can manage, Theodore. -[_Jenny hands Mrs. Ritter the smelling-salts, at the center-door._] - -MRS. RITTER. Thanks, Jenny. - -JENNY. You’re welcome. [_She hurries out into the right hallway, and -Mrs. Ritter comes forward to the chair below the piano, sniffing the -salts. Ritter rises and saunters around and up to the left of the -arm-chair._] - -MRS. FELL. You can close that door, if you will! Couldn’t wait for you, -Jenny! [_She rushes in from the right hallway._] I’m too much excited! -[_She plants herself in the center-door, holding aloft in her right -hand a beautiful basket of tulips, and in her left, a huge bouquet of -violets._] Well, here _I_ am, with _my_ frankincense and myrrh! [_She -gives an hysterical giggle and teeters forward towards Mrs. Ritter._] -Oh, there you are, Frederick Ritter! We thought something had happened -to you! Pauline, dear child, I’ve come to worship at your shrine. [_She -places the basket of tulips down on the floor to the left of Mrs. -Ritter, then straightens up, regards Mrs. Ritter, giggles frantically, -and looks over at Ritter._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Laughing wanly, and trying generally not to appear as -though she’d been crying_] You’ve been very sweet. - -MRS. FELL. Not half so sweet as you were on that stage tonight! -[_Speaking confidentially, and with great conviction_] Dear child, -you’re made! Absolutely made! [_Turning to Ritter_] Isn’t she, -Frederick? [_But he’s busy getting rid of some ashes in the fireplace, -so she returns to Mrs. Ritter._] It’s one of those overnight things -that one reads about! [_She picks up the basket of tulips from the -floor and teeters around above the table._] Dear me, look at this -wilderness of flowers! [_She sets the basket on the table._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Trying not to cry_] Yes, yes, aren’t they beautiful! -[_She darts a look at Ritter._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Rapturously_] Not another word until I’ve kissed you! -[_She kisses her on the left side of the head._] Oh, you sweet child! -[_She shakes Mrs. Ritter by the shoulders._] what can I _say_ to -you! [_Then she teeters to the middle of the room, addressing Ritter -directly._] See here, young man! Why aren’t you just _pelting_ your -wife with these flowers? [_He tries to hide his appreciation of the -situation by turning away his head._] Answer me! [_He bursts out -laughing, and Nelly teeters back towards Mrs. Ritter._] My dear, the -man is so pleased he can’t talk! [_Ritter laughs a little more._] -And if you were any other woman but his wife, Paula, he’d be sending -you mash-notes! [_Ritter begins to laugh again, and Nelly teeters -towards him._] Oh, you can laugh all you like, Frederick Ritter, -but you can’t fool Nelly Fell! [_She comes back towards Mrs. Ritter, -addressing her._] I’ve had three husbands,--I know their tricks. [_She -places her finger on Mrs. Ritter’s shoulder._] Pauline, dear child, -you may be sure that that young man is proud of you tonight if he -never was before. [_Mrs. Ritter tries to laugh._] And when he gets you -alone--[_Mrs. Ritter’s attempt at laughter is instantly abandoned, and -she gives a startled glance toward Ritter, who turns away to his left -and goes up towards the mantelpiece._] Oh, when he gets you alone! -[_Mrs. Fell turns slowly and looks toward Ritter, with a roguish -expression and a measured shaking of her finger at him._] He’s going -to tell you you were the loveliest thing that ever stepped on a stage. -If he hasn’t done so already. Have you, Frederick? [_She looks at him -with a mischievous eye._] Have you? [_He laughs, at the irony of the -situation. She crosses towards him._] Come on, ’fess up!--I know the -position is difficult! [_He laughs hard, and she laughs with him; then -turns back to Mrs. Ritter. Jenny comes in from the right hallway._] You -see, my dear, the man is so pleased he can’t talk! [_She sees Jenny -passing along the hallway and steps quickly up to the center-door._] -Oh, Jenny dear! Will you take these violets out and put them in some -water. - -JENNY. [_Taking the violets_] Yes, mam. [_Mrs. Pampinelli enters at the -left door, with a glass of water._] - -MRS. FELL. I’m afraid they’ll be all withered. [_Jenny continues on -into the left hallway. Mrs. Fell turns around into the room again._] -Where’s Mrs. P.? [_Sees Mrs. Pampinelli_] Oh, there you are! I was just -wondering where you were. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Crossing above the table at the left, towards Mrs. -Ritter_] Did you get the smelling-salts, Jenny? - -JENNY. Yes, mam, I gave them to Mrs. Ritter. [_She goes out at the left -hallway._] - -MRS. RITTER. Yes, Betty, I have them. - -MRS. FELL. [_Coming a step or two forward_] Well, Betty, you see we -managed to get them all here. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Back of the table below the piano, and at Mrs. -Ritter’s left_] Here, try and drink this, Paula. [_Mrs. Ritter takes -the water and tries to drink it; and Mrs. Pampinelli leans solicitously -over her. There is a pause._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Coming anxiously down at Mrs. Ritter’s left_] What’s the -matter?--[_She looks at Mrs. Pampinelli._] Is Paula sick? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Straightening up, and very imperiously_] The -_critic_--has been giving his impressions of our play. - -MRS. FELL. Who? [_She turns towards Ritter._] This critic here, you -mean? [_She indicates Ritter and then looks at Mrs. Pampinelli. Mrs. -Pampinelli inclines her head, with the suggestion of a derisive smile, -and passes up to the center-door. Mrs. Fell crosses quickly towards -Ritter._] What have you been saying, Frederick Ritter?--Huh? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Laying the glass of water down on the table_] Oh, what -does it matter, Nelly, what he’s been saying! - -MRS. FELL. [_Turning sharply to Mrs. Ritter_] What? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Trying not to cry_] I say--I say [_She bursts into -tears._] I say what does it matter what he’s been saying! - -MRS. FELL. It doesn’t matter in the least, as far as I’m -concerned--[_Mrs. Pampinelli turns at the center-door and comes forward -slowly in the middle of the room._] there’s only one thing he _could_ -say, if he told the truth. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Laying her hand on Mrs. Fell’s left arm_] Eleanor, -dear child,--husbands are not always particular about telling the -truth--where the abilities of their wives are concerned. If _I_ had -listened to the promptings of my own soul, instead of to my husband, -when I was a younger woman, I should in all probability be one of the -leading figures in the American Theatre today. But I was fool enough, -like a lot of other women, to believe that my husband had my welfare -at heart,--when the fact of the matter was, as I see it now, when -it’s too late,--he was simply jealous of my artistic promise. [_The -cuckoo-clock strikes the midnight hour. Ritter turns and looks up at -it, then glances at Mrs. Pampinelli. She is looking up at the clock -distrustfully. Mrs. Fell raises her eyes discreetly to it, then drops -them to the floor._] Why, the night I played Hazel Kirke, I had my best -friends in tears: yet, when I returned from the hall, and the entire -town of Cohoes ringing with my name,--my husband had the effrontery to -tell me that I was so terrific he was obliged to leave the hall before -the end of the first act. So,--[_She turns to Mrs. Ritter._] if this -gentleman here has set himself up as your critic, Paula,--remember _my_ -story,--the actress without honor in her own house. [_She sweeps across -below the piano to the window._] Is my car out here, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. [_Moving over a bit towards Mrs. Ritter_] Yes, it’s there. I -told Matthew he needn’t bother coming back for me, that you’d take me -home. [_Mrs. Ritter begins to cry softly, and Mrs. Fell steps to her -left and puts her hand on her shoulder._] Don’t do that, Paula. [_She -turns sharply and goes towards Ritter._] What was the matter with that -performance, Frederick Ritter? - -RITTER. [_Over at the left, below the mantelpiece_] Why, they didn’t -even know their lines! - -MRS. RITTER. [_Straightening up abruptly and looking at him, -reproachfully_] Oh! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning sharply from the window_] That is a -falsehood! They ran over every line last night, right here in this -room,--and they knew--practically all of them. - -RITTER. What good was that, if they couldn’t remember them on the stage. - -MRS. RITTER and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - MRS. RITTER. [_To Ritter_] I _could_ remember them on the stage! - [_Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli_] I never missed _one_ line! - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Ritter_] They _could_ remember them on the - stage! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Mrs. Ritter_] Not a line. - -RITTER. She and that other woman sat there blinking at the audience -like a couple of sparrow-hawks. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. They did nothing of the kind. - -MRS. FELL. Of course they didn’t! - -RITTER. [_Speaking directly to Mrs. Fell_] How do you know? _You_ -weren’t out there. - -MRS. FELL. I could see them through the scenery, couldn’t I? And they -didn’t look anything _like_ a couple of sparrow-hawks,--as you say. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Contemptuously_] Well, as I have never seen a couple -of sparrow-hawks, I cannot appreciate the comparison. - -RITTER. Well, you’d have seen a couple tonight, if you’d been with me. - -MRS. RITTER. Oh, don’t argue with him, Betty! He’s only trying to be -smart. - -RITTER. Why didn’t one of them _say_ something? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What could they have said? - -RITTER. Why, any commonplace! It’d have been better than just sitting -there blinking. [_Mrs. Ritter weeps._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. One can’t be commonplace in high comedy. - -RITTER. Was that what it was? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Bitterly_] What did you _think_ it was? - -RITTER. [_Turning and going up to the center-door_] _You_ tell her, -Nelly; I haven’t got the heart. - -MRS. FELL. [_Moving a little towards the right_] You bold thing. -[_Nelly is wearing the gown she wore in the preceding act, and a heavy -cloak of old-rose-colored velvet. She lays her hand on Mrs. Ritter’s -left shoulder._] Don’t let him upset you this way, Paula. [_There is a -little pause. Ritter turns at the center-door and comes forward again -at the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Picking up her fan from the piano_] I suppose _you_ -would have eclipsed Edwin Booth, if _you_ had been up there. - -RITTER. Well, I’d have known better than to sit there blinking at the -audience. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning sharply to him_] I didn’t _blink_ at the -audience. - -MRS. FELL. Don’t answer him, honey. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What could they have done under the circumstances? - -RITTER. Why, they could have covered it up!--if they’d had any brains. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Covered it up with _what_? - -RITTER. Why, with anything! Impromptu conversation! [_Mrs. Fell looks -at Mrs. Pampinelli and smiles pityingly._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And have the audience _laugh_ at them? - -RITTER. They laughed anyhow, didn’t they? - -MRS. FELL. [_Taking a step or two towards him_] That was not their -fault! - -RITTER. [_To Nelly_] Whose fault _was it_? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Imperiously, and moving over to a point above the -table at which Mrs. Ritter is sitting_] It was Mr. Spindler’s fault. - -RITTER. Mr. Spindler. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. He promised to attend to the various properties and he -did _not_ attend to them.--There was supposed to be a pen and ink on -the desk for Mrs. Rush to leave a note for Doctor Arlington;--and when -Paula sat down to write the note, there was no pen--and no ink. So she -simply had to go on sitting there until Mr. Spearing went off and got -them. - -RITTER. I thought he’d left town. - -MRS. FELL. Oh, he wasn’t gone so very long, Frederick Ritter! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Bitterly, to Mrs. Fell_] Not five minutes. - -RITTER. I thought the show’ud be over before he’d get back. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. The door wouldn’t open when he attempted to go back, -so he was obliged to go around to the other side. [_She illustrates the -circumstance by waving her fan in a circular gesture about the table. -Ritter bursts out laughing. Nelly glares at him, then looks to Mrs. -Pampinelli, who, with a deadly, level look, turns and moves haughtily -up towards the center-door._] - -RITTER. What happened to the skinny guy’s mustache, that it kept -falling off every other line? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to him, up near the center-door_] It only -fell off twice, don’t exaggerate. [_Ritter laughs again._] - -MRS. FELL. You bold thing! - -RITTER. How many times was it _supposed_ to fall off? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, what if it fell off a dozen times,--everybody -knew it wasn’t real! [_He roars._] - -MRS. FELL. It’s a lucky thing for you, Frederick Ritter, that you’re -not _my_ husband! - -RITTER. [_Quietly_] That goes both ways, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. [_Moving across towards him_] Well,--when you do something -that you’ll get so many flowers that my limousine will have to make -three trips to get them to the various hospitals,--we may pay more -attention to what you have to say. [_She turns away and moves back -towards the center of the room, where Mrs. Pampinelli is just moving -forward from the center-door._] - -RITTER. I suppose most of the audience have gone with the flowers, -haven’t they? [_Nelly whirls round to retort, but Mrs. Pampinelli lays -a restraining hand upon her right arm._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With immortal authority_] Don’t answer him, -Eleanor--“Envy loves a lofty mark.” The next time we have a part that -calls for a very limited intelligence, we’ll engage Mr. Ritter for it. -[_She moves a little down to the right towards Mrs. Ritter._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Looking at Ritter_] Now! - -RITTER. [_Casually_] Well, if you do, he’ll know how to walk across the -stage without tripping every other step. - -MRS. FELL. Who tripped every other step? - -RITTER. [_Indicating his wife_] The weeping-willow there. [_Mrs. Ritter -begins to weep afresh._] - -MRS. FELL. It’s a wonder to me you’re not afraid to lie so! - -RITTER. She tripped when she first came through the door! I was looking -right at her. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to him_] She didn’t _fall_, did she? - -RITTER. No, but it looked for a while there as though she were going -to. [_Mrs. Ritter’s weeping becomes audible again._] I very nearly had -heart failure. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Laying her hand on Paula’s shoulder_] Don’t mind -him, Paula. - -RITTER. She tripped when she came _on_ the stage, she tripped when she -went _off_, and she tripped over the rug when she went over to the desk! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With measured finality_] She didn’t trip any oftener -than anybody else. [_He laughs._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Directly to Ritter_] No, nor half so often as some of the -others,--[_Turning towards Mrs. Pampinelli_] now that you speak of it! -[_She turns and goes up to the hallway._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I will admit that Mr. Hossefrosse is a bit -unsteady,--but that is due to his weak ankles. - -RITTER. What was the star’s unsteadiness due to? - -MRS. RITTER. The rugs! - -RITTER. [_Looking at her keenly_] What? - -MRS. RITTER and MRS. PAMPINELLI, together. - - MRS. RITTER. The rugs. - - MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Moving to the center of the room_] The rugs! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Those funny rugs--that they have down there. We didn’t -use them at the rehearsals,--and, naturally, when it came to the -performance,--Paula wasn’t accustomed to them. - -RITTER. She was accustomed to rugs at home, wasn’t she? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Tersely_] Well, she wasn’t at home on the stage. - -RITTER. [_With a gesture of complete acquiesence, and moving up towards -the center-door_] That’s my argument in a nutshell. [_Mrs. Pampinelli -stands frozen in the middle of the room, with an expression very much -as though she were trying mentally to assassinate him. He comes back -down again at the left, to his former position._] Why, I couldn’t hear -_two-thirds_ of what she said. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, evidently there were many people there who -_could_ hear what she said, for they laughed at all her points. [_She -turns and goes to the piano, where she picks up several roses. Mrs. -Fell comes forward through the center-door and down towards the piano._] - -RITTER. I wanted to laugh, too, but I was afraid somebody’d turn around -and _see_ me. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning to Mrs. Ritter_] Are you ready, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. Yes, I’m ready. - -MRS. RITTER. Are you going, Betty? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Yes, I must, darling, it’s getting late. [_She places -her hand on Mrs. Ritter s shoulder._] Good night, dear. [_She passes up -towards the center-door._] - -MRS. RITTER. Good night, Betty. - -MRS. FELL. [_Laying her hand on Mrs. Ritter’s shoulder_] Good night, -Paula child. - -MRS. RITTER. Good night, Nelly. [_Nelly follows Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Stopping in the center-door and turning to Ritter_] -Perhaps, at our _next_ performance,--Mr. Ritter will favor us with the -benefit of some of his suggestions. [_She regards him with a touch of -lofty amusement. He turns his head towards her and looks at her with a -kind of mischievous squint._] - -RITTER. [_Quite pleasantly_] There aren’t going to be any more -performances, Mrs. Pampinelli, as far as anybody in _this_ house is -concerned. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_After a steady pause_] No? [_He inclines his head in -quiet emphasis._] - -RITTER. Not until there’s a change in the management. [_There is -another taut pause._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Coldly_] Really? [_He inclines his head again._] -Then, I’m afraid we sha’n’t have you with us, Mr. Ritter. - -RITTER. [_Smiling_] I know very well you won’t have _me_ with you. -And as far as Mrs. Ritter’s concerned,--she’s got a very good home -here--and I love her; and any time she feels any dramatic instinct -coming on, there’s a very nice roomy attic upstairs, and she can -go up there and lock the door, and nobody’ll ever see or hear her. -But if she ever gets mixed up again in anything like that atrocity -I saw tonight,--I’m through. [_He speaks the last words with quiet -definiteness, and turns towards the door at the left._] And she’ll get -killed in the bargain. [_He hits the door open with the palm of his -hand and goes out. There is a slight pause: then Nelly Fell crosses -quickly towards the mantelpiece, addressing Ritter as she goes._] - -MRS. FELL. Why, Fred Ritter!--I’ve heard you say yourself that you -were in _favor_ of a Little Theatre in this city! - -RITTER. [_Coming in again through the door at the left, carrying his -overcoat, derby and scarf_] So I am! I say so again. [_He stops inside -the door._] But in the light of that cataclysm tonight, you’ll pardon -me if I add, that I do not see the connection. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Stepping forward to the middle of the room and -challenging him with a lift of her head and brows_] What did you -_expect_ to _see_, Mr. Ritter,--a finished performance from a group of -comparative amateurs? - -RITTER. I expected to see something almost as bad as what I -saw;--that’s the reason I _fainted_ last night and was unconscious for -twenty-four hours at the prospect of it. [_He turns to Mrs. Fell and -speaks quite colloquially._] And that’s the first time in my life I’ve -ever fainted. [_Nelly just gives him a look and turns her head away._] - -MRS. RITTER. Don’t mind him, Betty,--he’s only trying to show off. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With bitter amusement_] No, but I’m a bit -_curious_--to know just _how_ Mr. Ritter would expect to _accomplish_ -the establishment of a Little Theatre here, unless through the medium -of such performances as this one this evening. How else is our local -talent to be discovered--or developed? - -RITTER. Well, I’m equally curious, Mrs. Pampinelli, as to your exact -_qualifications_--as a discoverer or developer of talent for the -theatre. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. That is a very familiar attitude. People who _do_ -things--are constantly having their ability to do them called into -question. [_She moves a step further forward and towards Mrs. Ritter._] - -RITTER. I’m afraid that’s something you’ve read somewhere. [_She glares -at him._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. The theatre is a matter of instinct. - -RITTER. The theatre is a matter of qualifications,--the same as any -other profession; and it will only be _through_ those particular -qualifications that your Little Theatre will ever be brought -about. [_He crosses over in front of Mrs. Fell and up towards the -center-door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Well, perhaps you will come to the rescue;--you -seem so familiar with the various necessities of the Little Theatre. -[_He stops, just to the left of the center-door, and looks at Mrs. -Pampinelli straight._] - -RITTER. [_Quietly_] I am also familiar, Mrs. Pampinelli, with a little -remark that Mr. Napoleon made on one occasion, a long time ago;--about -the immorality of assuming a position for which one is unqualified. -[_There is a pause,--he settles his coat on his arm, then moves slowly -out through the center-door into the hallway: while Mrs. Pampinelli, -with an expression of eternal exclusion, moves over between the piano -and the table towards the window._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning_] Fred Ritter, where are you going? - -RITTER. [_Lighting his cigar in the hallway, just outside the -center-door_] I haven’t the faintest idea. But I shouldn’t be surprised -if I’d go on the stage. - -MRS. FELL. [_Standing back of the arm-chair at the left_] One star is -enough in the family. - -RITTER. [_Bowing very graciously to her_] Applause--[_She turns away -and looks straight ahead. Then Ritter bows towards Mrs. Pampinelli._] -and great laughter--[_Mrs. Pampinelli isn’t looking at him, but she -knows that that is meant for her, so she simply moves another step -or two towards the window. Mrs. Ritter turns to see what Ritter is -doing. He takes a step and leans forward towards her, speaking rather -confidentially._] followed by booing. [_She turns back again and -starts to cry, while he continues out into the right hallway and up -the stairs. As he mounts the stairs, he holds aloft his lighted cigar, -after the fashion of a zealous bearer of the torch._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Picking up the orchids from the table below the -window_] Paula, you should have Jenny put these orchids in water; they -keep ever so long in a cool place. [_She comes across towards the left, -below the piano._] - -MRS. RITTER. Will you call her, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. [_Crossing to meet Mrs. Pampinelli_] Give them to me, -Betty, I’ll take them out to her. [_Mrs. Pampinelli gives her the -orchids._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Tell her to put them in a cool place. [_Nelly starts -up for the center-door. The telephone-bell rings._] - -MRS. RITTER. Will you answer that, Nelly? - -MRS. FELL. [_Setting the orchids down on the chair in the left -hallway_] Certainly, darling. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing back of Mrs. Ritter’s chair_] If it’s -anything concerning the play, I shall be at home on Tuesday at two. - -MRS. FELL. [_At the telephone_] Yes?--Yes?--Who?--Oh,--well, wait just -one moment, please. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What is it? - -MRS. FELL. [_Holding the transmitter against her bosom and leaning over -the partition towards Mrs. Pampinelli_] It’s the Star Moving Picture -Company. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. What do they want? - -MRS. FELL. They want the address of Mrs. Ritter’s manager. [_Mrs. -Pampinelli gives a quick look at Mrs. Ritter._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_To Mrs. Ritter_] I anticipated this. [_She goes -quickly towards the center-door, laying her fan and roses on the left -partition-seat, as she passes out into the hallway._] Give it to me, -Nelly. [_Nelly hands her the telephone, and, picking up the orchids -from the chair, tiptoes back of Mrs. Pampinelli and in through the -center-door._] - -MRS. FELL. [_In an excited whisper to Mrs. Ritter_] What did I tell -you! [_She giggles nervously, shakes her finger at Mrs. Ritter, and -then watches Mrs. Pampinelli eagerly._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into the telephone_] Hello-hello--This is Mrs. -Ritter’s manager speaking. Mrs. Pampinelli. Pampinelli. Mrs. J. _Duro_ -Pampinelli. Capital P--a--m, p--i--n, e--double l--i.--Correct. Yes--I -see--I see.--Well, how do you mean, a thousand dollars, a thousand -dollars a day, or a thous--I see. Well, just one moment, please. [_She -lowers the telephone and leans towards Mrs. Ritter, speaking in a -subdued tone._] The Star Moving Picture Company wants to know if Mrs. -Ritter will appear in a special production of tonight’s play before the -camera. - -MRS. FELL. [_Narrowing her left eye_] What’s the figure? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. One thousand dollars per week. - -MRS. FELL. [_Definitely_] Fifteen hundred. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into the telephone_] Hello-hello! - -MRS. RITTER. [_Rising_] Maybe I’d better talk to them. - -MRS. FELL. [_Suggesting with a gesture that she be quiet and resume her -chair_] Please, dear. [_Mrs. Ritter meekly sits down again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into the telephone_] Why, I’m sorry,--but Mrs. -Ritter does not appear under fifteen hundred dollars per week. - -MRS. FELL. [_Watching her shrewdly_] Net! [_Mrs. Pampinelli turns and -looks at her sharply, and Nelly emphasizes what she said by inclining -her head: then Mrs. Pampinelli speaks into the telephone again._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Net. - -MRS. FELL. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli_] It’s a bargain at that. [_She nods -towards Mrs. Ritter._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into telephone_] Twelve-fifty? - -MRS. FELL. No compromise. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into telephone_] Well, just one moment. [_Covering -the transmitter and speaking to Mrs. Fell_] Twelve-fifty is offered. - -MRS. FELL. [_Definitely_] Fifteen hundred dollars. They’ll lift it. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Turning back to the telephone_] Why, I’m very -sorry,--but Mrs. Ritter positively does not appear under fifteen -hundred dollars. [_Nelly inclines her head towards her._] Net. Well, -how do you mean satisfactory? Satisfactory at our figure? [_Mrs. -Pampinelli glances at Mrs. Fell and Mrs. Fell glances at Mrs. Ritter._] - -MRS. FELL. [_To Mrs. Pampinelli_] Sign! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into the telephone_] Very well, then,--signed at -fifteen hundred dollars per week,-- - -MRS. FELL. Net! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Into the telephone_] Net! And Mrs. Ritter appears. -[_She stands holding the telephone and listening._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Whirling round and teetering down to Paula_] Our STAR! I -always said it! [_She shakes Mrs. Ritter by the shoulders._] I always -said it! [_She whirls round and teeters up towards the center-door._] -Haven’t I always said it, Betty? [_Mrs. Pampinelli is listening on -the telephone, and tries, by dint of thrusting the telephone towards -Nelly, to silence her. But Nelly is irrepressible._] That it was only -a question of time? [_She turns and flies down towards Mrs. Ritter -again._] We must telephone Mrs. Livingston at once, Paula! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Be quiet, Nelly, be quiet! - -MRS. FELL. [_Rushing up towards the center-door again_] She’ll be so -interested! We must call up Mrs. Livingston right away, Betty! - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Please, Nelly! [_Nelly is silenced. Mrs. Pampinelli -listens sharply, Nelly and Mrs. Ritter watching her; and there is a -dead pause._] Beg pardon? [_There is another slight pause; and then -Mrs. Pampinelli utters an abrupt shriek and sets down the telephone._] - -MRS. FELL. What is it, Betty? [_Mrs. Pampinelli looks at her, then -straight ahead._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_With venomous enunciation_] It’s Ritter! [_Mrs. -Ritter rises slowly._] - -MRS. FELL. Ritter? [_Mrs. Pampinelli doesn’t stir._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Addressing Mrs. Pampinelli_] Fred? - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I recognized his voice. [_She moves along the left -hallway and comes in through the center-door and forward, a little to -the left of the center of the room._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Up just to the right of the center-door_] Why, where is he? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Beginning to cry_] He must be on the extension upstairs. -[_Nelly listens keenly._] - -MRS. FELL. It is he; I hear him laughing. [_She crosses down to the -door at the left._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Taking a step towards Mrs. Ritter_] Sit down, -Paula. [_Mrs. Ritter sits down, rests her elbows on the table and weeps -bitterly. Nelly stops over at the door and turns._] - -MRS. FELL. [_Positively_] Paula,--if he were _my_ husband, I should -lose no time in having him arrested. [_She goes out, at the left door._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. [_Standing back of Mrs. Ritter’s chair_] Paula dear, -I do hope that you are not going to allow Mr. Ritter’s flippancies to -discourage you. [_Paula clasps her hands in her lap and looks tearfully -at the backs of them._] The way of the essential artist is always hard; -and so very frequently the most serious obstacles are those to be -encountered at home. - -MRS. RITTER. But, I feel so unsuccessful. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. I know, dear--I know exactly how you feel. But you -must _go on_. Just remember that art is the highest expression of -truth,--and you cannot fail. For you have everything in your favor, -Paula. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Weakly_] Thank you. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And the masses need you, dear; you are an altogether -_new note_ in the theatre. - -MRS. RITTER. But--I don’t know whether Fred’ll _want_ me to go on any -more--[_Mrs. Pampinelli suddenly becomes very still and stoney, and -looks down at Mrs. Ritter with merciless inquiry. Mrs. Ritter senses -the change and turns hastily to explain._] the way he spoke. - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. And, do you mean that you will allow him to _stop_ -you, Paula? - -MRS. RITTER. [_Breaking down under Mrs. Pampinelli’s frozen amusement_] -Well, of course, he’s my _husband_, Betty. [_She cries. Mrs. Pampinelli -regards her with a kind of pained toleration; and settles her cloak, -preparatory to going._] - -MRS. PAMPINELLI. Very well, then, Paula--if you feel that way about -it, I should advise you to keep him; and I shan’t waste any more of my -time encouraging you. [_She sweeps around to her left and up towards -the center-door._] There are far too many who are only too _willing_ to -make the necessary sacrifices without being urged. [_She picks up her -fan and roses from the partition-seat, lays them across her left arm, -and turns regnantly to Mrs. Ritter._] Only remember this, Paula,--there -will be actresses when husbands are a thing of the past. [_She sweeps -out through the center-door and out into the right hallway. There is -a slight pause; then Nelly Fell comes in at the left door. She misses -Mrs. Pampinelli._] - -MRS. FELL. Where is Mrs. P., Paula? - -MRS. RITTER. She’s just gone out to the car, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. [_Stooping to pick up one of the chrysanthemums from the -floor_] Do you mind if I take one of these flowers, Paula? [_She stands -in the middle of the room, holding it, and looking at Mrs. Ritter._] I -want it for my dramatic shrine. - -MRS. RITTER. You can take them all if you like. - -MRS. FELL. Why, what would _you_ do, dear? - -MRS. RITTER. I don’t want them. - -MRS. FELL. [_Crossing towards her_] Now, you mustn’t feel like that, -Paula Ritter. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Having all she can do to keep from crying_] I just can’t -help it. - -MRS. FELL. I see in your husband’s attitude--nothing but a desperate -attempt to save his home;--for he _must_ know what your performance -tonight will inevitably lead to. [_Mrs. Ritter turns with a puzzled -expression and looks at her._] - -MRS. RITTER. I don’t understand what you mean, Nelly. - -MRS. FELL. Why, you must go to New York, dear; you can do nothing -dramatically here. - -MRS. RITTER. But, I have a husband. - -MRS. FELL. [_Very casually_] Every married woman has that cross, -darling. But you mustn’t let it stand in the way of your career; he -would very soon eliminate _you_, if you stood in the way of _his_. - -MRS. RITTER. But, I don’t like the thought of breaking up his home, -Nelly. [_Nelly gives a hard, knowing little laugh._] - -MRS. FELL. Don’t be unnecessarily sacrificial, darling. I made that -mistake with my first _two_ husbands; but I was _wiser_ with the third. -And I said to him, immediately we returned from the church, I said, -“Now, Leonard, you and I have just been made one; and _I_ am that one.” -[_She touches herself on the breastbone with her forefinger, then -touches Paula on the left shoulder._] And it worked out beautifully. -So be sensible, darling. [_She skips up towards the hallway._] I must -run along, Mrs. Pampinelli’s waiting! [_She teeters out through the -center-door into the right hallway._] Cheerio, Paula darling! - -MRS. RITTER. Good night. - -MRS. FELL. Cheerio! [_She giggles and vanishes into the right hallway. -Mrs. Ritter sits still for a second, looking from side to side, -at nothing, particularly, and presently gets up. The horseshoe of -“SUCCESS” over in front of the mantelpiece catches her eye, and she -wanders slowly towards it. But the irony of it all overcomes her and -she commences to cry again. Ritter appears at the head of the stairs -and starts down. She turns and looks at him, as he comes through the -center-door._] - -MRS. RITTER. Fred Ritter, those women will never come inside that door -again, the way you talked to them. [_He moves to the piano and leans -against it._] - -RITTER. Well, I don’t suppose that’ll make very much difference. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Looking straight ahead_] Well, it _should_ make a -difference. - -RITTER. They’d hardly come here to see _me_, anyway. - -MRS. RITTER. Well, they’d come to see me. - -RITTER. But _you_ won’t be here. [_She turns and looks at him blankly._] - -MRS. RITTER. Why,--what--what do you mean, I won’t be here? - -RITTER. [_With a touch of delicacy_] Why, aren’t you going on with _The -Work_? - -MRS. RITTER. Well, I don’t want to go unless you _want_ me to. - -RITTER. But, I _do_ want you to. I don’t think a talent like yours -should be hidden; [_He looks straight out, thoughtfully._] it’s too -unique. - -MRS. RITTER. I thought you said a while ago you didn’t like me? - -RITTER. [_Raising his left hand and crossing over and down in front of -her towards the arm-chair at the left_] You mustn’t hold me responsible -for what I said a while ago--[_He stops back of the arm-chair and rests -his hand upon the back of it._] I was panic-stricken at the thought of -having my home broken up. [_She moves down to the center of the room._] -But I’ve been thinking it over upstairs, and I’ve concluded that it’s -more important that the world should see you act, than that I should -have a home to come to. - -MRS. RITTER. But, I don’t like the thought of breaking up your home, -Fred. - -RITTER. [_Raising his right hand to her with a touch of solemnity_] You -mustn’t consider me in the matter at all, dear. Every great gift has -its victim--and I am, in a way, rather happy--to find myself chosen the -victim of yours. - -MRS. RITTER. What would _you_ do, if I were to go? - -RITTER. [_With the faintest shade of classic pose_] I’d go with you; -you’d need someone to look after the flowers--see that they got to the -various hospitals all right. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Looking away out_] I might not like it, after I’d get -there. - -RITTER. Maybe not. I suppose fame becomes monotonous like everything -else. But, I wouldn’t want you in the future, to look back and feel -that I had stood in your way. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Carefully_] No, Fred,--I really don’t _know_ whether I -want to be a great actress or not. - -RITTER. But, you are a great actress, dear. - -MRS. RITTER. Thank you. - -RITTER. [_Indicating the anchor of roses down at the left_] Look at -this anchor,--of hope. [_He steps back and picks up the horseshoe._] -And this horseshoe of “SUCCESS.” [_He brings it forward and sets it -down just to Mrs. Ritter’s left. Then he steps across in front of -it, takes her hand and slips his right arm around her waist._] And I -think, Paula, it might be a very sensible move, to just let the public -_remember_ you as a great actress--as they saw you _tonight_--_at your -best_. - -MRS. RITTER. [_Looking wistfully straight ahead_] Do you think they -_will_ remember, Fred? - -RITTER. [_Inclining his head, with a suggestion of the obsequious_] -Yes, I _think_ they will. [_Curtain._] - -MRS. RITTER. [_Turning and sinking into his arms_] You’re awfully -sweet, Fred. - - -THE END OF THE PLAY - - - - -TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES: - - - Italicized text is surrounded by underscores: _italics_. - - Obvious typographical errors have been corrected. - - Inconsistencies in typesetting have been standardized. - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Torch-Bearers, by George Kelly - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TORCH-BEARERS *** - -***** This file should be named 60523-0.txt or 60523-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/0/5/2/60523/ - -Produced by Tim Lindell, David E. 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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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll -have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using -this ebook. - - - -Title: The Torch-Bearers - A Satirical Comedy in Three Acts - -Author: George Kelly - -Release Date: October 19, 2019 [EBook #60523] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TORCH-BEARERS *** - - - - -Produced by Tim Lindell, David E. Brown, Buley Library -(Southern Connecticut State University) and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -book was produced from images made available by the -HathiTrust Digital Library.) - - - - - - -</pre> - - - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="" /></div> -<hr class="chap" /> - - -<h1>THE TORCH-BEARERS</h1> - -<hr class="chap" /> - - - - -<p class="center">“There will be actresses when husbands -are a thing of the past.”</p> - -<p class="center"><span class="gap"> -—<i>Mrs. Pampinelli.</i></span></p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/i_title.jpg" alt="" /></div> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<div class="titlepage"> - -<p><span class="xxlarge">THE TORCH-BEARERS</span></p> - -<p><span class="xlarge"><i>A Satirical Comedy</i></span><br /> -<i>in</i><br /> -THREE ACTS</p> - - -<p><span class="large"><i>By</i> GEORGE KELLY</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/i_titledeco.jpg" alt="" /></div> - -<p><small><i>Preface by</i></small><br /> -KENNETH MACGOWAN</p> - - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/i_titlelogo.jpg" alt="" /></div> - -<p><small>NEW YORK</small><br /> -AMERICAN LIBRARY SERVICE<br /> -<small>1923</small></p> -</div> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p class="center"> -<i>Copyright 1923</i><br /> -AMERICAN LIBRARY SERVICE<br /> -<i>All Rights Reserved.</i></p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - - -<p>“The Torch-Bearers,” by George Kelly, was -presented by Stewart and French for the first -time on any stage at the Savoy Theatre, Asbury -Park, New Jersey, on the night of Monday, -August 14, 1922, with the following cast:</p> - - -<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" summary="table"> - - -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mr. Frederick Ritter</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Mr. Arthur Shaw</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mr. Huxley Hossefrosse</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Mr. Douglas Garden</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mr. Spindler</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Mr. Edward Reese</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mr. Ralph Twiller</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Mr. Booth Howard</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Teddy Spearing</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Mr. William Castle</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mr. Stage Manager</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Mr. J. A. Curtis</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mrs. Paula Ritter</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Miss Mary Boland</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mrs. J. Duro Pampinelli</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Miss Alison Skipworth</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mrs. Nelly Fell</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Miss Helen Lowell</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Miss Florence McCrickett</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Miss Rose Mary King</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Mrs. Clara Sheppard</span> </td><td> <span class="smcap">Miss Daisy Atherton</span></td></tr> -<tr><td><span class="smcap">Jenny</span></td><td> <span class="smcap">Miss Mary Gildea</span></td></tr> -</table> - -<p class="center">Play staged by the Author</p> - - - - -<p>NOTE—</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p>The form of the present manuscript is exactly that -in which this play was presented during its run at -the Vanderbilt Theatre, New York City, New York.</p> - -<p class="right"> -—<i>The Author.</i></p></blockquote> - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<div class="chapter"> - - - -<p class="ph1">THE TORCH-BEARERS</p> - -<hr class="tiny" /> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CAST</h2></div> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mr. Frederick Ritter</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mr. Huxley Hossefrosse</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mr. Spindler</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mr. Ralph Twiller</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Teddy Spearing</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mr. Stage Manager</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mrs. Paula Ritter</span> (<i>Ritter’s wife</i>)</div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mrs. J. Duro Pampinelli</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mrs. Nelly Fell</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Miss Florence McCrickett</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Mrs. Clara Sheppard</span></div> -<div class="verse"><span class="smcap">Jenny</span> (<i>a housemaid at Ritter’s</i>)</div> -</div></div> - - -<hr class="tiny" /> - -<h2>SCENE</h2> - - - -<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" summary="table"> - -<tr><td>ACT I—</td><td>A kind of drawing-room in the home of -Frederick Ritter, on an evening in October, -about 8 o’clock.</td></tr> -<tr><td> </td></tr> -<tr><td>ACT II—</td><td>Behind the scenes at Horticultural Hall, the -following evening at 8:30.</td></tr> -<tr><td> </td></tr> -<tr><td>ACT III—</td><td>The drawing-room at Ritter’s, two hours -later.</td></tr> -</table> - - - - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<blockquote> - -<p>Stage, screen and amateur rights for the -production of this play are controlled by -the author, George Kelly, 3665 Midvale -Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. -No public readings or performances may -be given without his written consent.</p> -</blockquote> - -<hr class="chap" /> - - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xiii" id="Page_xiii">[xiii]</a></span> -<h2 class="nobreak">PREFACE</h2></div> - - -<p>I cannot remember if it was one of those torrid and -terrible nights of August when the chain-gang of New -York’s critics was tolled off to the Forty-Eighth Street -Theatre for the premire of <i>The Torch-Bearers</i>. But -I do know that the general atmosphere of oppression—physical, -mental, professional—was a little denser than -usual. In the first twenty-eight days of August, 1922, -managements too daring or too resourceless to wait for -September had deluged us with a steady stream of inanity, -and here was another dousing in prospect. If it -wasn’t the heat, it was certainly the humidity of theatrical -August. Unknown play, new producers, author’s -name vaguely connected with vaudeville; altogether a -production so little esteemed by the booking powers -that it had to slip into a few weeks before the Equity -Players began their season at this theatre. It could -have been a night of Elysian coolness, and still we -would have been expecting the worst. It could have -been mid-April, and still we should have found an almost -ineffable freshness in the breeze of George Kelly’s -little comedy.</p> - -<p>The cold, historical fact is that at about 9:15 o’clock -on the evening of August 29th, 1922, five or six hundred -average New Yorkers, two or three hundred -friends of the management, and about fifty sophisticated -first-nighters were in grave danger of rolling off their -seats in hysteria because of <i>The Torch-Bearers</i>.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xiv" id="Page_xiv">[xiv]</a></span>The intermissions were filled with three questions -which more or less concern the reader of the published -play. Who was George Kelly? Where did he get -the comedy? How would it go?</p> - -<p>On August 29th, 1922, George Kelly was a perfectly -good Philadelphian in his late twenties who was -much better known to vaudeville than to fame. He -had written, directed, and played in about a dozen one-act -comedies and dramas on Keith and Orpheum time. -He had begun by quitting his family’s private tutor to -try acting in a playlet by the late Paul Armstrong. -Then—with no more preparation, apparently—he had -begun to write his own vehicles. A certain drama in -France absorbed his attentions for a while. After that -more “sketches”—as the vaudeville powers call any effort -above vocal or bodily acrobatics—and suddenly a -play.</p> - -<p>The origin of <i>The Torch-Bearers</i> was simple enough. -Kelly wrote the kind of tight, effective short plays that -amateur actors and little theatre directors are always -looking for. He had a perfectly good Philadelphia -family behind him. And so he was being invited to -lunch every now and then by the Pampinellis of the -cities in which he played. To hear them was enough. -They had to live a wider life.</p> - -<p><i>The Torch-Bearers</i> passed a prosperous term on -Broadway, and I think it will go far in the little theatres -which it satirizes. But upon the opening night I -remember much dubious debate about its chances. We<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xv" id="Page_xv">[xv]</a></span> -had laughed ourselves almost literally sick, and at the -end of the second intermission we had not yet seen the -rather prosy last act. Yet—conscious of our personal -superiority—we wondered.... Brander Matthews -and Aristotle would scoff at it, George M. Cohan and -Professor Baker would scowl. <i>The Torch-Bearers</i> -broke all the rules, and it had no plot. Obviously, by -all the rules, it ought to fail.</p> - -<p>There may be a good many reasons why it didn’t, -and some may lead you far into aesthetic explorations -of the present breakdown of dramatic form all over the -world. But the reader will find more cogent reasons -in the pages that follow this introduction. Personally, I -should put it down to the fact that the character-study -of the first act and the hokum of the second are irresistible. -We have all met our Pampinellis, and we have -all seen the lady prompter take a curtain call, or had -our mustache fall off in the big scene. We can never -resist some characterization on the stage, and as for -such hokum as this record of all the mishaps of the -amateur actor, ill luck is the heart of broad comedy -and when ill luck comes where it is most painful—in -personal display—Cassandra herself must smile.</p> - -<p>There were other things to make the death-watch -wonder whether <i>The Torch Bearers</i> could live. It -was satire. Satire is not ordinarily a popular commodity -in the theatre. It defeats sympathy, and sympathy -is necessary to emotion, and emotion to theatrical success.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xvi" id="Page_xvi">[xvi]</a></span>Satire has had its great moments, however, in the -history of the drama. Aristophanes made merry over -the fashions, foibles, and philosophies of Athens. Satire -was Molire’s stock in trade. Shaw has done very -well by poking a finger at society. Every nation has -at least one outstanding theatrical satire to its credit. -But for the war, the wise of Paris might still be laughing -at the French Academy because of de Flers and de -Caillavet’s <i>L’Habit Vert</i>. England has <i>The School -for Scandal</i>, as Ireland has <i>The Playboy</i> and <i>John -Bull’s Other Island</i>. Germany, though a little heavy -in the theatre, can still point to Schnitzler’s <i>Literature</i>.</p> - -<p>Just at the moment America is beginning to display -a surprising fondness for theatrical satire. Beginning -is hardly the word, perhaps, for the first American drama, -<i>The Contrast</i>, lampooned society with a large “S”; -<i>Fashion</i>, our first play by a woman, spoke out smartly -against the smart world, and from <i>Our American Cousin</i> -down to date, so many of our playwrights have -spoofed the alien and the aristocratic for the benefit of -the homespun, that it is only by a hair that I can risk -the statement that it is a “surprising fondness” which -we now display for satire. America has always enjoyed -its irreverent moments in the theatre, but it has -seldom gone in for whole plays devoted to almost nothing -but lampooning.</p> - -<p>In the last three seasons, however, the distinctly satirical -play has climbed noticeably in favour. In 1919-20 -there was nothing of the kind to be seen on Broadway.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xvii" id="Page_xvii">[xvii]</a></span> -In 1920-21 came Porter Emerson Browne’s -Mexican melodrama, <i>The Bad Man</i>, with most of its -success due to sly digs at both sides of the international -line, and George M. Cohan’s joke at the expense of -audiences as well as playwrights, <i>The Tavern</i>. Last -season, playgoers good-humoredly made a satire out of -the deadly serious absurdities of the British melodrama, -<i>Bulldog Drummond</i>; the <i>Chauve-Souris</i> twitted Russian -drama a little—in Russian; and the firm of Kaufman -and Connelly began in <i>Dulcy</i> and <i>To the Ladies!</i> -to vend biting wit at the expense of scenario writers -and advertisers, efficiency experts and after-dinner -speakers.</p> - -<p>This season a perfect flood of satire broke upon us, -most of it very good indeed, and some of it destined to -be successful with a large public. Besides <i>The Torch-Bearers</i>, -there have been <i>R. U. R.</i>, grim sarcasm upon -labour and capital, and a new bill of the <i>Chauve-Souris</i>, -the Kaufman-Connelly version of Henry Leon Wilson’s -<i>Merton of the Movies</i>, <i>Six Characters in Search -of an Author</i>, from the Italian, and <i>The World We -Live In</i>, the insect comedy from the Czecho-Slovak.</p> - -<p>The future of <i>The Torch-Bearers</i>, now that its -Broadway career is over, brings us up against the little -theatre movement. I am very much in favor of that -odd and amazing phenomenon. I believe a great deal -of the promise of the American stage outside New York -and a surprising amount of its present accomplishment -in that metropolis, is due to the uncontrollable desire<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xviii" id="Page_xviii">[xviii]</a></span> -of people not so very unlike Mrs. Pampinelli to produce -plays. Kelly’s satire touches the lower fringes of what -Mrs. P. calls “the movement,” but it might be directed -at Maurice Browne, Sam Hume, and Irving -Pichel and the little theatre would still go on, and -<i>The Torch-Bearers</i> would become—as I am sure it -will—one of the most popular pieces in the repertory -of the amateur actor. Many a Mrs. Pampinelli, safe -in the sense of her own self-importance, will do for -<i>The Torch-Bearers</i> all that Mrs. P. did—which is, -as Kelly observes, to “tell the players where to go on -the stage, so they won’t be running into each other.”</p> - -<p>But there is art in this play—not mere observation—and -I am afraid none of the Pampinellis who are to -be concerned with its future will ever quite equal the -person that the author and Alison Skipworth, the actress, -created between them. I do not look for any -moment so extraordinary as when Mrs. Pampinelli, -discussing the fatalities invariably connected with these -amateur performances, reaches her peroration: “We -are not dismayed; we have the lessons of history to fortify -us: for whenever the torch of essential culture has -been raised, (<i>she raises the lead-pencil as though it -were a torch</i>) there has unfailingly been the concomitant -exactment of a human life.” For one cannot -expect to find a cuckoo-clock always present with its -sapient comment at such a moment.</p> - -<p>The reader will find the cuckoo-clock, the satire, -and the hokum for himself. He will also detect, I<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xix" id="Page_xix">[xix]</a></span> -think, a strain of divine and devilish madness in Kelly -which promises something of genius for the American -drama. The reader may note, too, in Kelly’s script -the kind of practical qualification for the theatre of -which Mr. Ritter speaks feelingly on page 56. This -qualification has produced extraordinarily effective humor -and something else. This is a sense for stage -management. It makes Kelly a rare and precious figure -in our theatre, and gives you a script to read—or -to produce—that is liberally supplied with every bit -of business and direction necessary for putting on the -play—either in the Cohoes Little Theatre or your own -imagination.</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="smcap">Kenneth Macgowan.</span></p> - - - -<p>Pelham Manor, N. Y., February 25, 1923.</p> - - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xx" id="Page_xx">[xx]</a></span></p> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xxi" id="Page_xxi">[xxi]</a></span></p> - - - -<p>NOTE: The drawing-room at Ritter’s, in which -the first and last acts are laid, is a comfortable-looking -room, suggestive of good circumstance. Toward the -back there is a fancy wooden partition separating the -hallway from the room proper. This partition begins -rather high up on the side walls and curves deeply -down to two ornamental columns, five feet high and -set about five feet apart, forming the entrance from -the hallway to the room. Straight out through this -entrance, and paralleling the partition, is the staircase, -running up to the left and through an arched -doorway. The foot of the staircase is just to the right -of the center-door; and then the hallway continues on -out to the front door. On the left, there is a passageway -between the staircase and the partition, running -through an arched doorway to the body of the -house. In the room proper, breaking the angle of the -right wall and the partition, is a door, opening out, and -below this door, a casement-window. On the left, -breaking the angle of the left wall and the partition, -is the mantelpiece, and below it a door, opening out. -Just inside the partition, on either side of the center-door, -is a built-in seat.</p> - -<p>The entire room and hallway is done in a scheme of -silver and the lighter shades of green. All the woodwork -and furniture, including the piano and mantelpiece, -is finished in silver-green, and the walls and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xxii" id="Page_xxii">[xxii]</a></span> -ceiling are in blended tones of orchid, gray and green, -decorated with tapestried panel-effects. The carpet is -gray-green, and the vases and clock on the mantelpiece, -as well as the little cuckoo-clock over the door at -the left, are green. The drapes on the casement-window -and the doorways, at the head of the stairs and -in the left hallway, are in rose-colored brocaded satin; -and the pads on the partition-seats are covered with the -same material. The piano-throw is a garishly subdued -blend of old-rose, Nile green and canary-colored -silk.</p> - -<p>Right out between the little wooden columns of the -center-door, set flat against the staircase, is a small -console-table, holding a most beautiful rose-colored -vase filled with wisteria; and on the piano there is a -similar vase filled with white and yellow blossoms. On -either side of the console-table there is a tall torchiere -with a rose-colored shade; and the shades on the wall-lights, -and the one on the lovely rose-colored vase-lamp -on the table down at the right below the casement-window, -are all rose-colored.</p> - -<p>There’s a brilliant array of cushions about the room, -all shapes and sizes, and every color of the rainbow,—and -many books and magazines. The piano, up at the -right, is littered with music, cigarettes, in a fancy container, -flowers and candy—in a pretty box made of -pink satin.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_xxiii" id="Page_xxiii">[xxiii]</a></span>The two arm-chairs in the room, one just to the -left of the table below the window, and the other at the -left side of the table over at the left, are over-stuffed -in green-and-silver brocade.</p> - -<p>There is a small table below the piano, with a light -little chair beside it, the left side, and there is a similar -chair over at the extreme left, below the door.</p> - -<p>The keyboard of the piano parallels the right wall, -with enough room, of course, between the piano-stool -and wall to permit of easy use of the door. There -must also be room enough above the piano for a passageway -between it and the partition-seat.</p> - -<p>The rights and lefts employed in the foregoing descriptions -are, of course, the player’s rights and lefts.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - - - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span> -<h2 class="nobreak">ACT ONE.</h2></div> - - -<p><i>After a slight pause, a door out at the right is heard -to close, and immediately Mr. Ritter comes along the -hallway beyond the partition and into the room. He -is a brisk, rather stocky type of man, in his early forties, -wearing a brown suit and overcoat, a derby hat, -and carrying a suit-case. He sets the suit-case down -on the partition-seat at the right, and, with a glance -around the room, at the unusual arrangement of the -furniture, starts out into the hallway again, removing -his gloves and overcoat. He glances along the hallway -to the left and up the stairs as he goes. Jenny -comes along the hallway from the left carrying a small, -light chair. As she is about to come into the drawing-room -proper from the hallway, she becomes conscious -of Mr. Ritter out at the hall-rack at the right. She -stops and peers in that direction. She is a pleasant -little English person, plump and trim, dressed in the -regulation parlor-maid’s black and white.</i></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Is that you, Mr. Ritter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> That’s who it is, Jenny! How are you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Bringing the little chair forward and -placing it above the little table at the left</i>] Pretty -well, thanks, Mr. Ritter, how are <i>you</i>?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming along the hallway from the -right</i>] I’m whatever you are, Jenny. [<i>Jenny gives a</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span> -<i>faint little laugh and proceeds with her arrangements, -and Ritter picks up several telegrams from the stand in -the hallway, just to the left of the center entrance.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Ain’t you back a bit soon?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming forward to the small table at -the right, below the piano</i>] Yes, I thought I’d have -to go down to Cincinnati for a week or two, but I -didn’t.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Mrs. Ritter ain’t expectin’ you, is she?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Glancing thru the telegrams</i>] No, she -isn’t, Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> I thought I didn’t remember hearin’ her -sayin’ nothin’.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Where is she?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Starting for the hallway</i>] She’s upstairs, -sir, I’ll call her.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>With a glance at the furniture</i>] What -are you doing around here, Jenny, housecleaning?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Turning and coming back</i>] No, sir, -there’s a rehearsal here tonight. [<i>Ritter stops reading -and looks at her quizzically for a second.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What kind of a rehearsal?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Why, a rehearsal for a show that Mrs. -Ritter’s takin’ part in tomorrow night. They done it -at the Civic Club the week after you went away, and -they liked it so well they’re doin’ it again tomorrow -night.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> <i>Who</i> liked it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Sir?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I say, who liked it so well that they’re -doing it again?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Why, everybody seemed to like it, Mr. -Ritter, from what the papers said.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What kind of a show is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Why, I think it’s a tragedy, from what I -gather.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Did you see it, Jenny?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> No, sir, <i>I</i> didn’t get to see it, I’m sorry to -say; but I heard everybody connected with it sayin’ it -was a <i>great success</i>. [<i>Ritter resumes his telegrams, then -looks at Jenny suddenly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> How did Mrs. Ritter get into it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Why, I think somebody died, Mr. Ritter, -if I’m not mistaken.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Shaking his head conclusively, and resuming -his telegram</i>] I assumed it was an extremity of -<i>some</i> kind.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>At the top of the stairs at the back</i>] -Fred Ritter! don’t tell me that’s you down there! -[<i>Jenny turns quickly and goes to the foot of the -stairs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> No, I’m still out in Chicago!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Is it, Jenny?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, mam, I was just comin’ to tell you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Starting down the stairs</i>] I <i>thought</i> I -heard his voice! [<i>Jenny laughs.</i>] I’ve been standing up -here for the last <i>five</i> minutes saying to myself, “Who -can that <i>be</i> that has a voice so much like Fred’s!”<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span> -[<i>Coming into the room from the hallway</i>] Why, Fred, -darling, what are you doing here! [<i>He has moved up -towards the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Laughing a little</i>] How is the old kid! -[<i>Kisses her</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> I thought you wouldn’t be back till the -first! [<i>Jenny passes along the hallway to the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, that Cincinnati thing’s been postponed -till after Thanksgiving.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning away from him and stepping -out into the hallway again</i>] Well, why didn’t you wire -or something?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I was afraid of giving you a shock.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Oh, Jenny!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You’re such a frail little flower.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning back to him</i>] Now stop, Fred! -I’ve really lost a lot since you went away.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> How do you know? [<i>Jenny comes along -the hallway from the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Why, my dear, I can tell by my clothes. -[<i>She turns to Jenny.</i>] Jenny, will you get me a glass -of water, please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Starting out</i>] Yes, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You’re not going to faint, are you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning back to him again with a flip -of her hand at him</i>] No, I’m not.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Slipping his arm around her waist and -coming forward</i>] Any mail here for me?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Not a single thing, Fred; I sent everything<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span> -right on to Chicago as soon as it came: there -must be several letters there for you now.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Disengaging himself and taking her -hands and looking at her</i>] I’ll get them all right. How -have you been treating yourself while I’ve been away?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> All right; only I’m glad to see you back.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Kiss me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> The house seemed awfully lonesome.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Kiss me. [<i>She kisses him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Passing above him to the piano at the -right</i>] Crazy thing. [<i>He moves over to the little -table at the left, rummaging in his pocket for a cigar, -and Mrs. Ritter commences to rummage in a sewing-basket -on the piano. This basket is Mrs. Ritter at a -glance, all green and yellow satin, fraught with meaningless -bows and weird-looking knots. She undoubtedly -made it herself, and it must have taken her -months. But she’s a practical woman; at least she -thinks she is; and the sewing-basket helps in a way to -sustain the conviction. Poor Paula! As one looks at -her and listens to her he appreciates the fortune of the -circumstance that there is some sane and capable person -between her and the world; and as he more closely -observes the sewing-basket, he rejoices in the blessing -of the sane and capable person’s ability to spare her the -necessity of having to make her own clothes. Although, -as a matter of fact, she would look lovely in anything; -for Paula is pretty—charmingly so. And her hair is -marvelous. So gold—and satiny. She is wearing a</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span> -<i>dress now of lime-green silk with a standing collar -edged with black fur, and gold-colored slippers.</i>] Did -you have anything to eat, Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, I ate on the train. What’s this -Jenny was saying? Something about a show you’re in?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Oh,—[<i>Looking at him</i>] did she tell you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I wondered what had happened to the -furniture when I came in.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Coming around and forward towards -the little table below the piano</i>] Yes, there’s a rehearsal -here tonight. We have it every Tuesday and -Thursday. Of course, it’s just to run over the lines, -because we’ve done it already at the Civic Club on the -fourteenth. And, my dear, it was perfectly marvelous.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What kind of a show is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Standing back of the table</i>] Oh, it’s just -a one-act play,—in one act, you know. And it was -really <i>quite</i> wonderful. [<i>She gives an inane laugh.</i>] -I had no idea. [<i>She touches her hair and turns towards -the back of the room again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> How did <i>you</i> happen to get into it? [<i>Jenny -comes along the hallway from the left carrying a -glass of water on a small tray.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning to him</i>] Well now, wait till I -tell you—[<i>She sees Jenny.</i>] Oh, thanks, Jenny. [<i>Jenny -starts out again.</i>] Jenny, will you go to the top of the -stairs and see if I left the lights burning in my room.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Turning and starting towards the foot of</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span> -<i>the stairs in the right hallway; and setting the tray on -the little stand as she goes</i>] Yes, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming forward holding the glass -of water</i>] I think I did. [<i>She sips.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>As she crosses the center-door</i>] Do you -want that suit-case taken up, Mr. Ritter? [<i>Mrs. -Ritter turns round to the right and watches Jenny.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, you can take it up if you will, Jenny, -thanks. [<i>Jenny lifts the suit-case from the partition-seat -and goes out and up the stairs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to Ritter</i>] You know, I -wrote you about poor Jimmy Sheppard—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, what was that, had he been sick?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, not a day, my dear! that’s the -reason it was all so dreadful. Of course, he’d always -had more or less of a weak heart; but nothing to -threaten anything of that kind. And just three days -before the performance, mind you:—couldn’t happen -any other time. And <i>poor</i> Mrs. Sheppard playing one -of the <i>leading</i> parts. [<i>She turns to her left and goes -up to the center-door, where she looks out toward the -right hallway expectantly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Casually depositing the band from his -cigar on the tray at his left</i>] Did he <i>know</i> she was to -play one of the leading parts?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning at the center-door and -looking at him</i>] Who,—Mr. Sheppard?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming forward again</i>] Why, of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span> -course he did—She’d just finished telling him when he -fell over. [<i>Ritter appears to be unduly occupied with -his cigar, and Mrs. Ritter takes advantage of the circumstance -to refresh herself with another sip from the -glass.</i>] My dear, poor Clara Sheppard is a <i>wreck</i>—You -want to write her a note, Fred, when you get time. -And he never spoke—not a solitary word. But, she -says—just as he was dying,—he gave her the funniest -look. Oh, she says—if she lives to be a thousand, -she’ll <i>never</i> forget the way he looked at her. [<i>She goes -up to the center-door and sets the glass down on the -tray.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Still busy with his cigar</i>] Had he ever -seen her act?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to him, thoughtfully</i>] <i>I</i> -don’t know,—whether he ever had or not. [<i>Jenny -comes down the stairs.</i>] Oh, yes he had, too! for I saw -him myself at the Century Drawing Rooms last Easter -Monday night, and she was in that play there that -night, you remember. [<i>She moves to the piano and -starts looking for something in the sewing-basket; he -moves to the mantelpiece, up at the left, apparently -looking for a match.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> No, I wasn’t there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Oh, weren’t you! I thought you were.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> No. [<i>He feels in his pockets.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> There are matches there on that little -table there, Fred. [<i>She indicates the table below the -mantelpiece.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Discovering some in his pocket</i>] I have -some here. [<i>He moves to the arm-chair at the left of -table and sits down.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>As Jenny passes along the hallway towards -the left</i>] Oh, Jenny!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, mam?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Jenny, will you ask Mrs. Brock if she’ll -make some of that drink that she made the last time?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> I think she ’as made it already, Mrs. -Ritter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Well, will you see, Jenny, please?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Starting away</i>] Yes, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>To Ritter</i>] The folks liked it so much -the last time. [<i>She picks up her sewing-basket.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> All right, Mrs. Ritter. [<i>She disappears at -the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Stepping out into the hallway</i>] Oh, and, -Jenny!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Out at the left</i>] Yes, mam?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Tell her to put a little of that <i>gin</i> in it, -the way she did before.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> All right, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Tell her she’ll find some gin in the little -buffet in the big dining-room.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She probably knows where it is.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Coming forward carrying her sewing-basket</i>] -Well, anyway, that’s how I happened to get -into it. [<i>She sits on the chair at the left of the small</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span> -<i>table below the piano.</i>] Mrs. Pampinelli called me up -the first thing in the morning, and she said—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Is she in it, too?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Looking up from the arrangement of a -couple of strips of lace which she has taken from the -sewing-basket</i>] Who? Mrs. Pampinelli?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> No, she doesn’t take any part; she’s just -in charge of everything.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> That suits her better.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Kind of directress, I suppose you’d call -her. [<i>He has some difficulty keeping his face straight.</i>] -Tells us where to go, you know, on the stage,—so we -won’t be running into each other. [<i>Ritter laughs.</i>] Really, -Fred, you have no idea how easy it is to run into -somebody on the stage. You’ve got to know where -you’re going every time you move. [<i>He laughs louder.</i>] -Why, what are you laughing at?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I was just thinking of a few of the things -I’ve heard Mrs. Pampinelli called.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Looking over at him reproachfully</i>] Oh—now, -that isn’t a bit nice of you, Fred Ritter. I -know you don’t like her.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I like her all right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> No, you do not, now, Fred,—so <i>don’t</i> -say you do.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I think she’s marvelous.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Well, she’s tremendously clever at this -stage business, I don’t care what you say. You just<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span> -ought to hear her talk about it sometime. Now, the -last rehearsal we had,—over at her house,—she spoke -on “Technique in Acting as Distinguished from -Method;” and you’ve no idea how interesting it was. -[<i>Ritter glances over at her as he deposits some ashes -from his cigar on the little table-tray.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You say you’ve given this show before?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Oh yes! We gave it on the fourteenth at -the Civic Club. And, my dear, that audience just -loved it. And you’d be surprised too, for it’s a terrifically -serious thing. In fact, in a way, it’s too serious—for -the general public—that’s the reason several -of the people who saw it suggested that, if we give -it again, we should give a dance right after it. [<i>She -looks closely at her needle and Ritter looks discreetly -at the end of his cigar.</i>] But, as Mrs. Pampinelli says, -it’s an absolute impossibility to give a dance at either -the Civic Club or the Century Drawing Rooms, so -that’s how we’re giving it this time down at Hutchy -Kutchy. [<i>Ritter looks over at her with a quizzical -squint.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Where?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Looking over at him</i>] Horticultural -Hall—there at Broad and Spruce, you know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, I know;—what did <i>you</i> call it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Hutchy Kutchy. [<i>She laughs inanely.</i>] -Mrs. Pampinelli always calls it that,—I suppose I’ve -gotten into the habit too, from hearing her. [<i>She gives</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span> -<i>another little laugh, then finishes with an amused -sigh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What’s the show for, a charity of some -kind?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to him suddenly, and -with a shade of practicality</i>] It’s for the Seamen’s Institute. -Kind of a refuge for them, you know, while -they’re in port; so the sailors won’t be wandering -around the streets getting into bad company. [<i>Ritter -disposes of more ashes, with an unusual precision, and -Mrs. Ritter resumes her sewing. Then, suddenly, she -glances toward the casement-window at the right.</i>] It -was Mrs. Pampinelli’s idea, [<i>She gathers her things -into the sewing-basket and gets up, swinging round to -her left and talking as she goes.</i>] so of course she <i>didn’t</i> -want anything to happen. [<i>She sets the sewing-basket -down on the piano, and, with another glance thru the -window at the right, crosses to the little table at the -left where Ritter is sitting.</i>] So she called me up the -first thing in the morning, and she said, “Paula darling, -<i>have</i> you heard the news?” So, of course, I said -“No;” because up to that time I <i>hadn’t</i>, and, naturally, -I <i>wasn’t</i> going to say that I had.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Certainly <i>not</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> “Well,” she said, “<i>poor</i> Jimmy Sheppard -has <i>just</i> passed on.” Well, luckily, I was sitting down -at the time, or I <i>positively</i> think I should have passed -on myself.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Raising his hand from the table as</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span> -<i>though distressed by the extremity of her remarks</i>] -Don’t say such things.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Mistaking his attitude</i>] No, really, -Fred, you’ve no idea the <i>feeling</i> that came over me -when she said that. “Well,” I said, “Betty, what on -earth are we going to do!” Because the tickets were all -sold, you know. “Well,” she said, “Paula,—the only -thing <i>I</i> see to do, is to have <i>you</i> step right into Clara -Sheppard’s role.” “Me!” I said. “Yes,” she said; -“you are the only person in <i>my</i> opinion who is qualified -to play the part.” “But, my dear,” I said, “I’ve never -stepped on a stage in my <i>life</i>!” “That is absolutely -inconsequential,” she said, “it is entirely a matter of -dramatic instinct. And,” she said, [<i>She simpers a bit -here and moves around from the right of the little -table where she has been standing to the back of her -husband’s chair, at the left of the table.</i>] “<i>you</i> have -<i>that</i>—to a far greater degree than you’ve <i>any</i> idea of.” -[<i>He makes a sound of dry amusement.</i>] No, really, -Fred, everyone was saying it was a positive tragedy -that you couldn’t have been there to see me—I never -forgot myself once. [<i>She rests her hand on his left -shoulder, and he reaches up and takes her hand.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What are you going to do now, become -an actress?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> No, but it surprised me so, the way everybody -enthused; because I didn’t think I’d done anything -so extraordinary—I just walked onto the stage, -and said what I’d been told to say, and walked off<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span> -again. [<i>She emphasizes this last phrase by an indefinite -gesture of nonchalance in the direction of the door -at her left.</i>] And yet everybody seemed to think it was -wonderful. Why, Nelly Fell said she’d never seen -even a <i>professional actress</i> so absolutely unconscious. -[<i>He makes a sound of amusement.</i>] Really, Fred, you -ought to have heard them. Why, they said if they -didn’t know, they never in the <i>world</i> would have believed -that it was my first offense.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You mustn’t believe everything these -women tell you; they’ll tell you anything to get their -names in the paper.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Well, it wasn’t only they that said it;—people -that I didn’t even <i>know</i> said it. Why, Mrs. -Pampinelli had a letter from a woman away out at -Glenside that happened to see the performance, and -she said that, at times, my repose was <i>positively</i> uncanny. -And the papers simply raved; especially “The -Evening Breeze.” I have it upstairs, I must show it to -you. It said that it didn’t understand <i>how</i> I had escaped -the public eye so long. [<i>She glances at the -cuckoo-clock over the door at the left, and, in doing -so, notices a book that has been left lying on the chair -below the door: she steps over and picks it up.</i>] I was -awfully sorry you couldn’t have been there, Fred. I -was going to write you about it when Mrs. Pampinelli -first spoke to me about going on, but there was so little -time, you see. And then, I didn’t think you’d -mind;—especially on account of its being for charity.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span> -[<i>He is very carefully putting ashes on the little tray. -She stands holding the book, looking at him. And -there is a slight pause.</i>] You <i>don’t</i> mind my going on, -do you, Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Rather slowly</i>] No,—I don’t mind, if -you’re able to get away with it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Trailing across back of his chair</i>] I -didn’t think you would.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Raising his hand from the table quietly</i>] -But a—[<i>She comes to a stop and regards him over her -left shoulder.</i>] I don’t want any of these women exploiting -you for their own vanity. [<i>She doesn’t quite -encompass his meaning, and stands looking at him for -a second. Then she abstractedly lays the book down -on the table beside him. There is a very definite ring -at the front door-bell.</i>] I guess that’s some of the people. -[<i>She starts towards the hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Preparing to rise</i>] Where do you do this -thing, here?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning to him and indicating the general -arrangement</i>] Yes—just the way we have it fixed.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Rising briskly and crossing to the table below -the piano at the right, while Mrs. R. continues to -the center-door and stands looking toward the front -door. Jenny appears in the left hallway.</i>] I think I’ll -beat it upstairs.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning to Jenny</i>] I guess that’s some of -the people, Jenny. [<i>She comes forward towards Ritter -again.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, mam. [<i>She passes back of Mrs. Ritter -and along out into the right hallway to answer the -door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Won’t you wait and see the rehearsal, -Fred? [<i>He is gathering up the telegrams from the -table, where he left them earlier.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning and going up towards the center-door, -thrusting the telegrams into his inside pocket</i>] -No, I think I’d rather wait and see the show. [<i>He -passes her, to her left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning and trailing up towards the center-door -after him</i>] It’s really <i>very</i> interesting.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Out at the front door</i>] You -see how considerate I am of you, Jenny, letting myself -in? [<i>Mr. and Mrs. Ritter stop in the center-door and -look toward the front door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>At the front door</i>] Oh, that’s all right, -Mrs. Pampinelli.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Turning quickly to Ritter at her left</i>] -You can’t go up now, Fred, she’ll see you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Ritter</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. P.</span> Well, I daresay you’ll have to open this -door quite often enough tonight without my troubling -you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming back into the room with a slight -gesture of annoyance</i>] I don’t want to have to listen -to her gab. [<i>He goes over to the mantelpiece at the -left and takes up his position there, while Mrs. Ritter,</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span> -<i>with a movement to him to be silent, drifts down beside -the piano at the right.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming into view from the -right hallway</i>] Well, I suppose I’m still the shining -example of punctuality. [<i>She sweeps thru the center-door, -carrying a large black-bear muff, a fan of black -ostrich-plumes, and a note-book and pencil.</i>] How do -you do, Mr. Ritter,—[<i>She goes towards Mrs. Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Nodding</i>] How do you do.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I’m glad to see you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Moving towards Mrs. P.</i>] Hello, -Betty.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Hello, Paula child,—[<i>Kisses -her</i>] how are you, dear? [<i>Mr. Spindler hurries in -from the right hallway, carrying several books. Mrs. -P. steps to the table below the piano.</i>] Will you give -those things to Mrs. Ritter, Mr. Spindler, she’ll set -them down somewhere. [<i>She sets her own encumbrances -down on the table, and Mrs. Ritter passes back -of her to Spindler.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Standing in the middle of the room, toward -the back</i>] Certainly, certainly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Good evening, Mr. Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Good evening, good evening. [<i>Jenny -comes in from the right hallway, takes the tray and -glass from the hall table, and goes out the left hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I’ll just take these.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Giving her the books and a manuscript</i>] -If you please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Crossing directly to Ritter</i>] -Florence McCrickett told me you were back; she saw -you getting into a taxicab at the station. [<i>Giving him -her hand</i>] I’m glad to see you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I just got in.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And I suppose you’ve already -heard about the great event?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, she’s just been telling me. [<i>They -laugh together.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, my dear, you may count -that day lost that you missed it. [<i>She half turns to -Mrs. Ritter, who is engaged in conversation with -Spindler.</i>] Mayn’t he, Paula? [<i>But Paula hasn’t heard -what she’s been saying, so she just looks at her and -gives an inane little laugh. Mrs. Pampinelli continues -to Ritter.</i>] Although you’ll have an opportunity tomorrow -night; unless you’re going to run away again -before that.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> No, I’ll be here now till after Thanksgiving. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter leaves Spindler and goes over to -a small table at the extreme right, below the casement-window, -where she sets the books and manuscript -down.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning from Ritter and crossing -back again to the table at the right below the piano</i>] -Wonderful! Did you hear that, Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> What is it, dear?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Ritter says he will be here -for the performance tomorrow night.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Unfastening her fur neckpiece</i>] -So you will have an opportunity after all of revealing -to him what gems of talent the unfathomed caves of -matrimony bear. [<i>They both laugh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Picking up Mrs. Pampinelli’s muff from -the table and taking the neckpiece</i>] I’ll just take these, -Betty.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Settling her beads</i>] Anywhere -at all, dear. [<i>Mrs. R. starts to the right.</i>] Oh, and -by the way, Paula—[<i>Mrs. Ritter stops and turns to -her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Indicating the books on the -table below the window</i>] There’s a remarkable article -in one of those books I brought, on a—gesture.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Looking at the books</i>] Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> The little gray book I think it -is, if I’m not mistaken. [<i>She turns to her left and -acknowledges Mr. Spindler with a touch of state.</i>] Mr. -Spindler—[<i>He returns a smiling and very snappy -little bow.</i>] brought it to my attention,—[<i>She turns -back again to Paula, who has gone up at the right of -the piano and is putting the furs on the partition-seat, -while Spindler, becoming suddenly conscious that Ritter -is looking at him, stiffens abruptly, glances at Ritter, -and turns back again to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>] and it<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span> -really is remarkable. So many of my own ideas—things -that I have been advocating for years. I brought -it especially for <i>you</i>, Paula,—so you must read it when -you have time. [<i>She picks up her lead-pencil from the -little table and, tapping it against her right temple, -thinks profoundly.</i>] What is that wonderful line of -Emerson’s that I’m so fond of—something about our -unexpressed thoughts coming back to accuse us—[<i>Turning -to Spindler</i>] You know all those things, Mr. Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Pedantically</i>] Coming back to us “with -an alienated majesty.”</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That is the one I mean. [<i>She -turns back again to Paula, who has, by this time, come -forward again at the right of the piano, while Mr. -Spindler, again becoming conscious that Ritter is looking -at him, gives him another glance, this time with a -shade of resentment in it, and, coughing briefly, as an -emphasis of his dignity, which Ritter’s general attitude -somehow suggests is not being sufficiently esteemed, -turns back to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>] Well, that is -exactly what occurred to me when I read that -article—My own thoughts returning to me from -an alienated majesty. [<i>She finishes her version -of the quotation to Spindler and Mr. Ritter.</i>] Oh, -by the way,—[<i>She gives a little mirthless laugh.</i>] -I’m afraid I’ve neglected to introduce Mr. -Spindler [<i>Indicating Ritter with a very casual gesture -of her left hand, and picking up her lead-pencil from</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span> -<i>the little table</i>] This is Mrs. Ritter’s husband, Mr. -Spindler. [<i>Spindler strides towards Ritter and extends -his hand with that vigor which usually characterizes -the greetings of unimportant persons.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Glad!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Tonelessly</i>] How are you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Addressing Ritter directly</i>] Mr. -Spindler is a young man who has made quite an exhaustive -study of the Little Theatre Movement -throughout the country; [<i>Spindler moves back towards -his former position, and Paula, over at the right, takes -a piece of fudge from a box on the little table below -the casement-window.</i>] and is working very hard to -bring about something of the same kind here. [<i>Ritter -inclines his head, and Spindler listens to Mrs. Pampinelli, -wreathed in smiles.</i>] And is going to succeed, -too, aren’t you, Mr. Spindler?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>With a kind of pert assurance</i>] Never -fell down on a big job yet. [<i>He gives a self-conscious -little laugh and glances at Ritter, under whose coldly-appraising -eye the laugh freezes instantly into a short, -hollow cough. Then he turns away.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I’m sure he has all the qualifications.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>With a wooden smile, and saluting</i>] -Thank you, thank you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Hasn’t he, Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Nibbling at the fudge</i>] Yes indeed, -Mr. Spindler’s quite indispensable. [<i>Spindler</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span> -<i>gives her a pert little nod, by way of acknowledgment.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] I think that’s -what I shall have to call him hereafter,—[<i>Turning to -Spindler</i>] the indispensable Mr. Spindler. [<i>They all -laugh,—a trifle more than the brilliancy of the remark -should reasonably occasion, and Mr. Spindler accounts -it even worthy a salute.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Bouquets were falling [<i>Here the front -door-bell gives two sharp little staccato rings.</i>] thick -and fast. [<i>He starts towards the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, it’s true—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Mrs. Ritter</i>] I’ll -answer it. [<i>He hurries out into the right hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. P.</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span>, speaking together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. P.</span> I know I don’t know what on earth I -should do without him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Addressing Spindler as he hurries out -the hallway</i>] All right, if you will, Mr. Spindler.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Calling back</i>] Sure!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> He is one of those rare persons -who never forsakes one in the hour of quotation. -[<i>She turns to Mrs. Ritter, who is chewing fudge at -her right.</i>] What are you eating, Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> A bit of fudge. Would you like -some, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Very definitely</i>] No, thank -you, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Indicating the table below the -casement-window</i>] There’s some here.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Raising her hand in a gesture -of finality, and speaking with conviction</i>] I never eat -immediately before using my voice. And you should -not, either, Paula,—particularly candy. [<i>She moves -across to the left to Mr. Ritter. She is an imposing -woman, in her late fifties, with a wealth of false hair, -perfectly done, and a martial bearing. She is one of -those matrons who is frequently referred to in the -suburban weeklies as a “leading spirit”; and this particular -description has always so flattered Mrs. Pampinelli’s -particular vanity, that she overlooks no opportunity -of justifying it: an effort that has resulted in a -certain grandeur of voice and manner; which, rather -fortunately, becomes the distinction of her person. She -is gowned in sapphire-blue velvet, close-fitting, with -an independent, triangular train, from the waist, probably -four yards long. Her necklace, comb, the buckles -on her black-velvet slippers, and her rings, are all -touched with sapphire.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking vaguely at the fudge-box</i>] -There’s so much of it here. [<i>Jenny appears from -the left hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. P.</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span>, speaking together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. P.</span> [<i>Coming to Ritter’s right</i>] Very tragic -about poor Sheppard, wasn’t it, Mr. Ritter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. R.</span> [<i>Going up to the center-door, and speaking -to Jenny as she goes</i>] Mr. Spindler is answering -the door, Jenny, you needn’t bother.</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter</span> and <span class="smcap">Jenny</span>, speaking together.</p> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span></p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] Yes, it <i>was</i>—too -bad.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] Oh, all right, then. -[<i>She withdraws, and Mrs. Ritter stands looking out -into the right hallway.</i>]</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I suppose Paula wrote you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Dear me—I don’t know when -anything has so upset me. [<i>Ritter stands looking at -the end of his cigar and Mrs. Pampinelli looks straight -ahead.</i>] I don’t believe I closed an eye the entire night,—wondering -where on earth I should find someone to -play his wife’s part. [<i>Ritter glances at her, as he -places the cigar in his mouth, and Mrs. Pampinelli -looks at him quickly.</i>] Because, of course, you know -that Mrs. Sheppard was to have played the part that -Paula plays.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, so she told me. [<i>Mrs. Ritter, still -nibbling at the fudge, wanders down and stands in the -middle of the room.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> But we only had three days -to get someone; and it didn’t seem possible to me that -anyone could memorize that part in that length of -time. [<i>Mrs. Ritter touches her hair and makes a little -sound of amusement,—a kind of modest acknowledgment -of the brilliancy of her achievement.</i>] So I -thought at first—of having Clara Sheppard go on anyway, -and I should make an announcement; but, you -see, Mr. Sheppard was buried on the fourteenth, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span> -that was the night of the performance; and as I -thought the matter over, it seemed to me that perhaps -it was just a little too much to expect of her—[<i>Ritter -gives her another glance.</i>] Considering her experience -as an actress, I mean.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Taking the cigar from his mouth and -speaking with a shade of deliberation</i>] Couldn’t she -have kept his death a secret,—until after the performance?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, I thought of that, too; -[<i>Ritter looks at her steadily.</i>] but, you see, it was three -days,—[<i>He nods, understandingly.</i>] and he was so very -well known. [<i>She moves back across the room towards -the table below the piano, and Ritter stands -looking after her. Simultaneously, there is a frantic -giggle from the right hallway. Mrs. Ritter goes up -to the center-door, looks in the direction of the laughter, -and waves her handkerchief, while Mrs. Pampinelli, -passing below the table, gathers up her note-book -and pencil and continues to the table below the casement-window, -where she secures the manuscript. Ritter -steps forward from his position before the mantelpiece, -and disposes of some ashes on the little table-tray.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Out in the right hallway</i>] Paula, -that’s a very dangerous young man you have on that -door tonight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Calling to her</i>] I think it’s very -kind of Mr. Spindler. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli comes around</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span> -<i>in front of the big arm-chair below the casement-window.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Coming into view, with considerable -flourish</i>] Kind! My dear, I haven’t heard anything -like it since I was twenty! [<i>She gives a little wave of -her gorgeous, single white ostrich-plume fan at Mrs. -Pampinelli.</i>] Hello, Betty! [<i>Then to Mrs. Ritter</i>] -How are you, darling?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Hello, Nelly. [<i>Nelly kisses her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Enthroning herself in the -arm-chair at the right</i>] Is it <i>really</i> possible!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning from Mrs. Ritter and hurrying -through the center-door</i>] You’re a sweet child! -[<i>Extending the fan towards Mrs. Pampinelli, and -coming quickly forward to the table at the right below -the piano</i>] Yes, and I should have been here every -night at this hour if it weren’t for that dreadful officer -up at the parkway! [<i>She sets her fan and black-velvet -bag on the table. Spindler comes in from the right -hallway and engages in conversation with Mrs. Ritter -in the centre-door.</i>] He seems to take a fiendish delight -in selecting <i>my</i> car, of all the <i>millions</i> that pass there -at this hour, to do <i>this</i>! [<i>She extends her right arm -and hand, after the fashion of traffic-officers.</i>] So I -told him yesterday afternoon, I said, “Look here, -young man!” [<i>She points her forefinger as though reproving -the officer.</i>] “You needn’t expect any Christmas-present -from <i>me</i> next Christmas, for you just—won’t—get -it. Not till you change your tactics.” So<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span> -he says, after this, he’s just going to let me go ahead -and run into a trolley-car;—see how I like that. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli, making marginal notes in the manuscript, -laughs faintly.</i>] “Well,” I said, “it’d be a change, anyway,—from -being stopped all the time.” [<i>She abstractedly -picks up her fan again.</i>] I don’t think he -likes my chauffeur. And I don’t blame him; I don’t -like him myself. He drives too slow—[<i>She starts for -the center-door.</i>] He’s like an old woman. [<i>She sees -Ritter, peering at her, and starts abruptly.</i>] Well, for -Mercy’s sake, Frederick Ritter, you don’t mean to tell -me that’s you!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I was here a minute ago.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Laughing flightily</i>] Well, I declare! -I don’t know what’s happening to my eyes! [<i>Turning -to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] I saw him standing there, [<i>Turning -back again and starting towards Ritter, with her -hand extended</i>] but I thought it was one of the other -gentlemen! How are you, dear boy? [<i>He takes her -hand and stoops over as though to kiss her. She turns -her head away quickly.</i>] Stop it! Frederick Ritter! -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli glances over, then resumes her notes. -Mrs. Fell half-turns to Mrs. Ritter, who is still talking -to Mr. Spindler up at the center-door.</i>] Paula!—do -you see what this bad boy of yours is doing? -[<i>Paula just looks and laughs meaninglessly, and resumes -her conversation with Spindler.</i>] What brought -you back so soon?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Assuming the attitude and tone of a -lover</i>] I got thinking of you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Touching her hair</i>] I thought you -were out in Seattle or South Carolina or one of those -funny places.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Leaning a bit closer and speaking more -softly</i>] I couldn’t keep away from you any longer. -[<i>Nelly darts a swift glance at him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Starting towards the right</i>] Don’t -play with fire, Frederick—[<i>He laughs hard. She -pauses in the middle of the room and turns and looks -at him.</i>] You know what they say about widows, and -I’ve been all kinds. [<i>She continues over towards Mrs. -Pampinelli.</i>] Oh, Professor Pampinelli! [<i>Turning and -addressing Ritter directly</i>] I call her Professor, she -knows so much. [<i>Turning back to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -Mrs. P.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Looking up suddenly</i>] I beg -your pardon, Nelly dear—I didn’t know you were -speaking to me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I want to know if you can take me -home in your car tonight?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Why, certainly, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> My chauffeur has been deviling me -for the past two days about some boxing-bee,—or -wrestling-match or something that he wants to see; -and I told him he could go if there were someone -here to take me home.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I can take you, of course.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> All right, then, I can chase him; -[<i>She turns to the left.</i>] I won’t hear any more about -that. Oh, Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Yes, mam? [<i>Excuses himself to Mrs. -Ritter, who steps into the left hallway and beckons -with her finger for Jenny.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Would you mind doing a favor for a -very old lady?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Who has hurried forward and is -standing in the middle of the room, at attention.</i>] You -know what I told you out at the door? [<i>Nelly gives a -shriek, and giggles.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Looking coyly over Spindler’s shoulder -at Ritter</i>] Oh, you hear that, Frederick Ritter? -You have a rival on the premises. Mr. Spindler told -me out at the door tonight,—that <i>my</i> will was <i>his</i> -pleasure.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking at the tip of his cigar</i>] San -Juan is never dead while Mr. Spindler lives. [<i>There -is a general laugh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Turning to Ritter</i>] Say, that’s pretty -good!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Yes, I was afraid he was something -of a gay deceiver.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Mrs. Fell</i>] Only -one way to find out. [<i>Mrs. Fell laughs deprecatingly -and sweeps the tip of her fan across his nose.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Naughty boy. [<i>She giggles a little -more, then becomes practical.</i>] Well then, I’ll tell you<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span> -what you may do for me, Mr. Spindler, if you don’t -mind. [<i>Jenny appears in the left hallway and Mrs. -Ritter gives her an order of some sort, which appears -to require a bit of explanation.</i>] Go out to my chauffeur, -[<i>She turns him round by the shoulder and they -move up towards the center-door.</i>] you’ll probably find -him asleep in the car, and tell him I said it’s all right,—he -can go along—that Mrs. Pampinelli will take -me home in <i>her</i> car.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Hurrying out the right hallway</i>] -Righto! [<i>Jenny withdraws.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Standing in the center-door and calling -after him</i>] Like a good boy. [<i>She turns, to find -Mrs. Ritter at her left in the center-door. She takes -her arm and they come forward.</i>] Come in here, Paula -Ritter, and explain to me <i>why</i> [<i>They stop in the middle -of the room, just above the line on which Ritter is -standing.</i>] you didn’t tell me my—lover [<i>She peers -around in front of Paula’s shoulder at Ritter.</i>] was -coming back today?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Laughing faintly</i>] My dear, I -didn’t know it myself until twenty minutes ago.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Becoming instantly rigid, and piercing -Mrs. Ritter with a look</i>] You don’t mean to tell -me he returned unexpectedly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> He never even sent a wire.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Moving over to the right, to the -little table below the piano</i>] I’m surprised at you, -Frederick. I consider that the supreme indiscretion<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span> -in a husband—[<i>She lays her fan down on the table.</i>] -to return unexpectedly. Isn’t it, Paula? [<i>She commences -to unfasten her cloak.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Moving over to help her</i>] I never -got such a surprise in my life.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It has probably wrecked more perfectly -good homes than any other one thing in the -calendar. [<i>She slips her cloak off her shoulders, and -Mrs. Ritter, who has passed back of her, takes it. It -is a flowing affair in black and silver, with voluminous -kimona sleeves edged with black fur, and a deep circular -collar of silver-cloth and fur.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I love your cape, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Settling her ornaments</i>] Do you -really?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Examining it</i>] Beautiful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Reaching for it</i>] Let me see -it, Paula.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Handing it to her</i>] Where’s your -seal, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I thought I wouldn’t take it out -this winter; I got so tired looking at it last year. I -want to have that collar and cuffs taken off, anyway, -before I wear it again;—there’s too much skunk there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> This is perfectly gorgeous, -dear. [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] Isn’t it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Picking up Nelly’s fan from the -table</i>] Lovely. And isn’t this sweet? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span> -<i>takes the fan from Mrs. Ritter and returns the -wrap.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Charming.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I’m so glad you like it;—I was afraid -at first perhaps it might make me look a little too much -like a bride.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>With mock derision</i>] Ha! [<i>Nelly snaps -her head toward him and pins him with a narrow -glare.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Don’t be peevish, Frederick—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli, as she takes -the fan from her and replaces it on the table</i>] Isn’t he -terrible!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It isn’t my fault that your wife is a -great actress. [<i>She gives a comic nod and wink at Mrs. -Ritter. Ritter laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Starting towards the door up -above the casement-window, at the right, with Mrs. -Fell’s cape</i>] Now, Fred Ritter, you just stop that!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Never mind him, Paula—[<i>Paula -goes out with the cape.</i>] He’ll probably change -his tune after tomorrow night. [<i>Mrs. Fell picks -up her fan and commences to fan herself.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Standing over above the table at the left, -smoking</i>] I’m thinking of what happened to poor -Jimmy Sheppard. [<i>Jenny comes in at the left hallway, -carrying a small punch-bowl filled with claret, which -she sets down carefully on the little stand in the hallway. -Mrs. Ritter re-enters from the door on the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span> -<i>right and crosses over to Jenny, whom she assists.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Strolling across towards Ritter, fanning -herself</i>] Oh, I suppose it must be very difficult -for the marvelous male, to suddenly find himself -obliged to bask in the reflected glory of a mere wife. -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli laughs, over her notes.</i>] For I’ve -never known one yet who was able to do it gracefully. -[<i>She flips the tip of the fan at Ritter’s nose. Mrs. -Ritter gives Jenny a direction of some kind and Jenny -goes out again at the left hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>As Mrs. Fell saunters back -again across the room</i>] Well, perhaps Mr. Ritter will -show himself consistently <i>masculine</i> in this instance, -and do the exceptional thing. [<i>Mrs. Ritter follows -Jenny out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I suppose that’s what you’d call <i>veiled</i> -sarcasm, isn’t it? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli laughs and rises.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Standing in the middle of the room</i>] -I shouldn’t say it was veiled at <i>all</i>. [<i>Moving towards -the table below the piano</i>] I don’t think it’s even -<i>draped</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Laughing still, and coming -to the little table</i>] Here’s the manuscript, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Stepping closer to the table</i>] Yes, -dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What are you going to do now, keep <i>on</i> -giving this show?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, not this particular one,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span> -Mr. Ritter, no; but we are going to continue giving -shows.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What’s the idea?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> They’re to be for different charities.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And then they will afford the -boys and girls an opportunity of developing themselves -as artists.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What are they going to do, all go on the -stage?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, hardly all of them will -go;—but those that we feel have sufficient talent we -will encourage to go on, by all means.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Do you think Mrs. Ritter has sufficient -talent?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> She’s wonderful, Fred, really.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, I should say that Paula -had a very remarkable talent.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, what will you do about <i>her</i>?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How do you mean, Mr. Ritter, -what will we <i>do</i> about her?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, I mean,—you’d hardly encourage -<i>her</i> to go on the stage, would you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And why not?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, what about her home? [<i>Nelly Fell -touches her hair and gives Mrs. Pampinelli a look of -amused impatience.</i>] She couldn’t very well walk -away and leave that, could she?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, personally, Mr. Ritter, -I have always felt that, where it is a question of talent,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span> -one should not allow himself to be deterred by purely -personal considerations.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> She’s really awfully good, Fred! You -wait till you see—You’ll want her to go yourself.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Stepping quietly to the table at the left -and disposing of some cigar-ashes</i>] She’ll have to be -pretty good.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Won’t he, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, as far as that is concerned, -I think that the question of whether to be or -or not to be an actress, is one that every woman must, -at some time or other in her life, decide for herself. -[<i>Spindler hurries in from the right hallway and down -to Mrs. Fell’s left, where he stands at attention, saluting, -of course, as usual. Mr. Spindler is full of salutes. -He was in the army;—drafted ten weeks before -the armistice; and subjected throughout the long -term of his service to the dangers and exposure of a -clerkship in the Personnel at Upton. And he’s never -gotten over it; being of that immature type of mind -upon which the letter of the Military makes a profound -impression. He’s a peppy person, thin and stilted,—in -dinner clothes,—with sleek hair and goggle -glasses: one of that distressing student-order that is -inevitably to be found in the retinue of some Mrs. -Pampinelli,—her social status and constant championship -of so-called artistic movements affording him a -legitimate indulgence of his particular weaknesses. So -he becomes a kind of lead-pencil-bearer extraordinary</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span> -<i>to her ladyship; and her ladyship tolerates him,—for -a variety of reasons; not the least of which is his unfailing -attitude of acquiescence in all her opinions. And -she has so many opinions,—and on so many different -subjects, that this feature of Mr. Spindler’s disposition -is far from inconsiderable. Then, he has a most highly -developed faculty for small correctnesses,—an especially -valuable asset, in view of the enormous -amount of detail work incidental to Mrs. Pampinelli’s -vast activities. He reminds her of things, or, “brings -them to her attention,” as she puts it. For Mr. Spindler -is one of those—fortunately few—people who remembers -things—word for word—even the things he’s -read—And he appears to have read most everything. -And he quotes incessantly. As Mrs. Pampinelli has -already observed of him, “he is one of those rare persons -who never forsakes one in the hour of quotation.”</i>] -Look here, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Yes, dear. [<i>Mrs. Ritter comes in -from the left hallway carrying several punch-glasses, -which she puts down on the hallway table.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Indicating a certain line in -the manuscript with her lead-pencil</i>] There are a -couple of little changes here on page twelve—[<i>Mrs. -Fell opens her lorgnon and looks at the manuscript.</i>] -I have them marked.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Becoming conscious of Spindler at -her left</i>] Pardon me, Betty. [<i>Turning to Spindler</i>] -Did you tell him, Mr. Spindler?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Yes, mam; he’s gone on his way rejoicing.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> You’re a sweet child.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Snapping his salute</i>] Thank you. [<i>He -does an about-face and goes up to Mrs. Ritter,—Ritter -watching him with an expression susceptible of infinite -interpretation.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> The only man I’ve met in a long time -that has made me wish I were—ten years younger.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Ha!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Pertly</i>] Outside of you, of course.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a touch of wearied -impatience</i>] Look here, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Stepping quickly to the table again -and re-adjusting her lorgnon</i>] Yes, I beg your pardon.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You see, in this line here,—the -author has employed a defective verb in the perfect -tense. [<i>Mrs. Fell looks suddenly at her and then -right back to the manuscript again. Ritter is watching -them closely.</i>] Would you come here for a moment, -Mr. Spindler?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Certainly, certainly. [<i>Excuses himself -to Mrs. Ritter, with whom he has been chatting, and -comes down briskly to Mrs. Fell’s left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> If you please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Appearing to have some difficulty -locating the defective verb</i>] Where is that, now, that -you were saying, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Indicating with the point of</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span> -<i>the pencil</i>] Right there, dear. [<i>Nelly just looks at the -spot, through her lorgnon.</i>] This is the point I was -speaking to you about last night, Mr. Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Securing his goggles</i>] Oh, yes, yes! -[<i>Ritter draws Mrs. Ritter’s attention to the group -down at the table. She reproves him with a steady -stare. He smiles and shakes his head hopelessly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You see, this author has employed -a defective here, in the perfect tense.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Looking closely</i>] Ah, yes, I see.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Looking at him directly</i>] So -I have changed it. [<i>He straightens up and looks at her, -and Mrs. Fell looks from one to the other.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> A very good change. [<i>He nods and -crosses over to the left, passing below the table at the -left. Ritter watches him until he takes up his position -just below the mantelpiece, rather ill at ease under -Ritter’s gaze.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I think so. So, if you’ll just -watch that Nelly. [<i>She picks up the manuscript.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> All right, I’ll watch it. [<i>She reaches -for her bag and takes out a lip-stick. Jenny appears -from the left hallway with a tray of cakes, which Mrs. -Ritter assists her in making room for on the hall table.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Starting for the center-door</i>] -I must show it to Paula, it’s her line. [<i>The door-bell -rings.</i>] Paula child. [<i>Jenny passes back of Mrs. Ritter -and goes out into the right hallway to answer the -door-bell.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Eating a cake</i>] Yes, dear? [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli calls her attention to the change in the -manuscript. Mrs. Fell is making up her lips down -at the table below the piano. Ritter is watching her, -and Spindler is watching Ritter, and trying to assume -his general deportment.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Are <i>you</i> in the show, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Without turning, and applying the -lip-stick, with the aid of the little mirror in her hand-bag</i>] -Who, me?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Half-turning, and giving him a -melting look</i>] Yes;—I play a chicken. [<i>She returns to -her mirror.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Casually</i>] In the last act, I suppose. -[<i>Nelly snaps her head around and pierces him with -one of her looks.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> No, and not in the last stages, either. -[<i>She resumes her make-up. Nelly is forever making -up. But, she does know how to do it. Of course, she -should, considering the years of her experience in the -art. For Nelly Fell’s age amounts to an achievement; -one of those attainments so absolutely undisputed that -it is perfectly permissible to refer to it in any gathering. -She says she’ll “soon be sixty”; but the short and -simple annals of society record flutterings of the lady -as far back as the first term of President Grant. And -she’s still fluttering—a perennial ingenue, full of brittle -moves and staccato vocalisms. She looks like a little</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span> -<i>French marquise, so chic, and twittery—and rich. For, -of course, Nelly is wealthy—enormously so; it would -be utterly impossible to have her hair and not have -money; the feature is financial in itself; so silver-white, -with a lovely bandau of small, pale-pink leaves, tipped -with diamond dewdrops; all heightened tremendously -by the creation in black velvet she is wearing. This -gown is heavily trimmed with silver, and quite sleeveless, -with two panels of the goods fastened at the waist -on either side and trailing at least a yard. She has a -preference for diamonds and pearls, obviously, for her -ear-rings, dog-collar, bracelets and rings are all of -those gems, and her long, triple-string necklace is of -pearls. Altogether, Nelly is a very gorgeous little old -lady—from the topmost ringlet of her aristocratic hair, -to the pearl buckles on her tiny black-velvet slippers.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Mrs. Fell is the official promptress.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning her head and looking at Ritter</i>] -I <i>prompt</i> everybody. [<i>She replaces her lip-stick -in the hand-bag.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Putting the hand-bag down again on -the table</i>] As well as lending my moral support.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes? [<i>Spindler laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Ritter</i>] You bold thing!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Coming into view from the right -hallway</i>] Good evening, everybody!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to him, from Mrs. -Ritter, with whom she has been discussing the change</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span> -<i>in the manuscript</i>] Oh, good evening, Mr. Hossefrosse. -[<i>They shake hands.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Mr. Hossefrosse. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -comes forward into the room again, bringing the -manuscript with her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Mrs. Ritter—good evening. [<i>Mrs. -Ritter asks him if he will have a glass of claret and he -says yes, so she proceeds to fill him out one.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I hope the rest of the people -aren’t far behind you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Are we late?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Waving to him</i>] Hello, Huxley.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Not very.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Hello, Nelly. How are you? [<i>Mrs. -Ritter gives him the claret, and he stands up at the -center-door with her, drinking it. Teddy Spearing -wanders in from the right hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Passing below the little table -below the piano and laying the manuscript on it</i>] -Here’s the manuscript, Nelly. [<i>She continues to the -arm-chair below the casement-window, and, picking -up her note-book from the little table at her right, -sits down and commences to make notes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Seeing Teddy Spearing, and starting -towards the right partition</i>] Oh, Teddy Spearing!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Hello, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Beckoning him with her fan</i>] Come -here, dear, I’ve got something to tell you. [<i>Teddy -leans over the partition at the right and Nelly kneels</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span> -<i>on the partition-seat and whispers something to him. -Hossefrosse and Mrs. Ritter are conversing in the -center-door, Mrs. Pampinelli is making notes down at -the right, Ritter is standing over in front of the mantelpiece, -smoking, and Spindler is standing just below -him, to his left, watching him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>In a sudden surge of courage, and taking -a rather nonchalant step towards Ritter</i>] Could you -spare one of those cigars, please? [<i>Ritter looks at him -keenly, then reaches in his vest-pocket for a cigar.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Do you smoke?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Semi-occasionally, yes. [<i>Ritter hands -him the cigar and he steps nonchalantly back to his -former position, Ritter keeping one eye on him. He -examines the cigar curiously, and, being apparently -very near-sighted, seems to have considerable difficulty -in deciphering the band-inscription.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You can light <i>either</i> end of it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Very self-conscious</i>] Yes,—I was just -looking at this label here: it’s rather keen. [<i>He puts -the cigar in his mouth, and attempts an attitude of -careless detachment.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Have you got a match?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> I don’t—[<i>As he opens his mouth to -speak the cigar falls on the floor, and he scrambles -after it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Laughing incredulously and turning away -from Nelly</i>] Oh, Nelly!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Upon my word, dear! Come here<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span> -till I tell you. [<i>Teddy returns to the partition and -Nelly proceeds with her gossip.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Straightening up, and attempting another -man-of-the-world attitude</i>] I don’t care to -smoke just now, thank you. [<i>He holds the cigar in his -fingers.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>As things settle again</i>] You’ve been in the -army, haven’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Turning to Ritter with a suggestion of -military erectness</i>] Yes; I put in the better part of -three months down at Upton, in the Personnel.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I imagined from your salute you’d been -around one of the camps.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Yes,—I was Third Lieutenant down -there—[<i>Ritter looks at him sharply; then Spindler -turns and meets the look.</i>] Regimental Sergeant Major.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Rest.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Coming away from the partition</i>] So -I’m going to ask him right out the very next time -I meet him. [<i>She comes down to the little table below -the piano again. Mr. Hossefrosse comes through -the center-door towards Ritter, rubbing his hands, and -Teddy moves over towards Mrs. Ritter, who is still -officiating at the punch-bowl.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, speaking together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Speaking to Mrs. Fell</i>] Maybe he doesn’t -know it himself.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Addressing Ritter</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span> -Ah, Mr. Ritter! How do you do, sir? [<i>They shake -hands.</i>]</p></blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> How do you do?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Well, I’m going to find out, whether he does or not.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>To Ritter</i>] Decided there was no place -like home, eh? [<i>He laughs, with a mirthless effusiveness.</i>]</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Are you in the show, too? [<i>Mrs. Ritter -fills out a glass of claret for Teddy.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I should say he is in it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> We’re all in it.</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> He’s the leading man. [<i>Hossefrosse -raises his right hand toward Nelly and laughs deprecatingly.</i>] -Unfortunately, there isn’t a place in the -play where he can use that perfectly gorgeous singing-voice -of his. [<i>Hossefrosse is quite overcome, and -crosses, with hand extended, to Spindler.</i>] It’s true.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Good evening, Mr. Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Good evening, good evening. [<i>In shifting -the cigar from his right hand to his left he drops -it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Uh! I beg your pardon! [<i>Mrs. Ritter -laughs at something Teddy has said to her, then -hands him a glass of claret. Mr. Hossefrosse stoops -to pick up Spindler’s cigar.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Stooping also, after the cigar</i>] That’s -all right.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I’ll get it. [<i>He picks it up and hands it to -Spindler.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> It isn’t lit.</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> There we are.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Thank you very much.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Don’t mention it. [<i>He crosses down -to Nelly, who is looking through the manuscript at the -table below the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Coming through the center-door and speaking -to Ritter</i>] How do you do, Mr. Ritter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Shaking hands with him</i>] How are you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Nodding to Spindler</i>] Good evening.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Good evening, sir; good evening.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Teddy!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Crossing towards the piano</i>] Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, -together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Waving her handkerchief -toward the right hallway</i>] Hello, Florence!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Addressing Teddy</i>] Did you telephone -that man about those tickets?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Standing -at Mrs. Fell’s left shoulder</i>] What are you doing, -Nelly?</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Teddy</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Out in the right hallway</i>] Am I the last? -[<i>She hurries into view and whispers something to -Paula at the center-door which sends Paula into a fit -of laughing.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Hossefrosse</i>] Making -more changes. [<i>He crosses over to the right in front -of Nelly and sits on the piano-stool, back of Mrs.</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span> -<i>Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Answering Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -Yes, I did, Mrs. Pampinelli, he said he’d have them -there all right.</p> - -</blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Thank you so much. [<i>Teddy -goes up and crosses above the piano, where he engages -Mr. Hossefrosse in conversation.</i>] Hello, Florence! -[<i>Jenny comes into view from the right hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Coming straight forward from the center-door</i>] -Am I the last? [<i>The front door-bell rings -again, and Jenny turns and goes back into the right -hallway again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, but you’re very close to it. -How are you, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Rushed like mad. [<i>Flipping her lynx -muff</i>] Hello, everybody. Hello, Nelly. [<i>She swings -round to her left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Hello, Flossie.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> How do you do, Mr. Spindler? [<i>Hossefrosse -gets up and whispers something to Mrs. Pampinelli, -in which she agrees.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> How do you do? [<i>Ritter bows very graciously -to Florence, and Mrs. Ritter comes forward to -her husband’s right, eating a piece of cake.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Extending the muff at arms-length at -Ritter</i>] No, I don’t speak to you at all. [<i>She removes -her stole.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What’s the matter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Paula, did you know your husband is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span> -becoming very snooty? [<i>Hossefrosse resumes his seat -on the piano-stool.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Sliding her hand through Ritter’s -right arm</i>] Why didn’t you speak to Florence at the -station today, Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I didn’t see you today.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Well, my dear, you <i>must</i> be getting -old; for Irene Colter and I did everything but stand -on our heads to attract your attention. [<i>On the last -word of this sentence she flips one of the tails of the -stole at him, and he ducks, as though afraid of getting -hurt.</i>] Where shall I put these, Paula? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -rises quietly from her chair at the right, and, -lost in thought, proceeds slowly and majestically across -in front of Mrs. Fell to the middle of the room, tapping -her lead-pencil on the note-book.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I’ll take them. [<i>She takes the muff -and stole from Florence and goes up and out into the -right hallway with them.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Espying Teddy up back of the piano, -shading his eyes with his hand, as though trying to see -her from a great distance</i>] Hello, Teddy dear! [<i>Goes -towards him</i>] What are you doing away back here -in the corner? [<i>She makes a sudden move as though to -tickle him in the ribs, but he laughs and jumps away. -Mrs. Pampinelli has by this time reached the center of -the room, where she stands turning from side to side -in a profound indecision as to the relationship of certain -positions. She indicates her line of thought by divers</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span> -<i>pointings and flippings of the lead-pencil. Ritter -watches her with narrow amusement; and, presently, -Mrs. Fell, who is still occupied with the manuscript -at the little table, looks up, distracted by the gyrations -of the lead-pencil.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What’s the matter, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I was just wondering about a -little piece of business here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Stepping to the back of the arm-chair at -the left and leaning over it towards Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -Can I help you, Mrs. P.?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Without turning to him</i>] No, -thank you; it’s purely technical. [<i>He resumes his position -at the left corner of the mantelpiece and glances -at Ritter, who is obliged to use his handkerchief to -hide his amusement. Mrs. Ritter comes in through -the door at the right, above the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Betty, did I tell you I saw Clara -Sheppard today? [<i>But Mrs. Pampinelli is still deep -in technical profundities, and simply silences her with -a gesture of her right hand.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming forward at the right of the -piano</i>] Where did you see her, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Darlington’s, at the mourning counter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming suddenly out of her -abstraction, and turning to Mrs. Fell</i>] Is she going in -black?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> My dear, she’s <i>in</i> it already.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Coming in the right hallway</i>] Good -evening!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> She’s very foolish, under the -circumstances.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> That’s just what I told her today.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Coming through the center-door and forward -at the left of the piano</i>] Good evening, Mrs. Ritter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Good evening, Mr. Twiller.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>To Hossefrosse, casually</i>] Huxley.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Shifting from the piano-stool to the -arm-chair, which Mrs. Pampinelli has just vacated, and -proceeding to study his part, which he has taken from -his pocket</i>] Hello, Ralph.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Hello, Ralph.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Nelly!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Still in the middle of the room</i>] -You’re the ten o’clock scholar again tonight, Mr. Twiller. -[<i>Jenny crosses from the right hallway to the left, -and goes out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I’m awfully sorry, Mrs. P., really; but -the fates seem to be against me. [<i>Teddy gives a little -whistle at him. He turns and sees him, standing with -Florence, up back of the piano.</i>] Hello, Teddy! [<i>He -goes towards him, and Teddy shoots at him with his -thumb and forefinger, by way of reply. Florence smiles -and extends her left arm and hand towards him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Twiller</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. -Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Moving over from the middle of the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span> -<i>room to the left of Mrs. Fell, who is still at the table -below the piano</i>] What was that you were saying, -Nelly, about Clara Sheppard?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Flossie, -dear, I didn’t see you two up here! [<i>He takes Florence’s -hand and kisses it. Then he crosses to the left -and shakes hands with Ritter; then over to Spindler, -and then starts back towards Florence, at the piano. -As he passes Ritter, Ritter taps him on the right shoulder; -he turns, and Ritter asks him something. He replies, -and they stand chatting for a moment; then Ritter -indicates the partition-seat behind them and they -sit down, to talk it over.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Why, I simply told her—I said, “Don’t -be spectacular, dear; it’ll only make it more difficult -for you when you want to marry again. And,” I -said, “you probably <i>will</i> marry again,”—[<i>Spindler sits -on the chair below the door at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Of course she will.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> “For you’re a comparatively young -woman. So,” I said, “just get through the next few -months as undramatically as possible. [<i>Jenny enters -in the left hallway and takes empty glasses off.</i>] I know -he was your <i>first</i> husband, and all that; but, after all,” -I said, “he was <i>only</i> your husband: it isn’t as though -you’d lost someone who was very <i>close</i> to you”—[<i>She -turns her head and speaks directly to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>] -Like one of your own people, [<i>Turning to Mrs. Ritter, -who is standing at her right</i>] or something like -that, I mean. “And,” I said, “another thing, darling,—<i>always</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span> -<i>remember</i>—he’d have very soon put another -in <i>your</i> place if it had been you.” [<i>She finishes the remark -to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Knowingly, and with conviction</i>] -I should say he would.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Reaching for her hand-bag</i>] And I felt -like saying, “And I could give you the names and addresses -right now of <i>several</i> that he would have put in -your place <i>long ago</i>, only for the law.”</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a shade of confidence</i>] -She must have known it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Reflecting the tone</i>] Of <i>course</i>, she -knew it. [<i>Florence leaves Teddy, up at the piano, and -crosses to Ritter and Twiller, to show them a piece -of music. They rise, and she indicates a certain point -on the sheet; then she continues down to Spindler, who -rises at her approach, and shows it to him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> How is she, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> My dear, she looks a perfect wreck. -[<i>Florence sits on the arm of the arm-chair at the left -and Spindler resumes the little chair below the left -door, and drawing it a bit closer to the arm-chair. He -appears to be telling Florence something very interesting.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Poor soul.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> She says no one will <i>ever</i> know how she -feels—about losing that part. And she says she simply -cannot <i>wait</i> until tomorrow night, [<i>She turns to Mrs. -Pampinelli.</i>] to see Paula’s interpretation of it. [<i>Mrs.</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span> -<i>Ritter gives an inane little laugh, and Mrs. Fell turns -quickly to her.</i>] She’s heard so much about it. [<i>Jenny -comes in from the left hallway again with fresh glasses. -She sets them down on the hallway table and proceeds -to arrange them.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Is she coming to the performance -tomorrow night?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> She says she’ll see that performance, if -she has to disguise herself.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Doesn’t that sound just like her? -[<i>Nelly nods agreement.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes,—she’s so full of dramatic -instinct.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>With a touch of bitterness</i>] He never -appreciated it though.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> My dear, has <i>any</i> artist <i>ever</i> -been adequately appreciated?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I understand he was very heavily -insured.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, yes!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> She <i>seemed</i> very optimistic when -I spoke to her on the telephone.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I believe your husband’s company had -him insured for quite a lot, didn’t they, Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Lowering her tone</i>] I believe they -did, Nelly,—but I couldn’t say for just how much.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Quietly detaching herself</i>] I must find -that out. [<i>She passes back of Mrs. Pampinelli and -across towards Ritter. Mrs. Ritter and Mrs. Pampinelli</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span> -<i>continue in conversation.</i>] Frederick, I want to -ask you something. [<i>He steps forward, excusing himself -to Twiller.</i>] Pardon me, Ralph.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> That’s all right, Nelly. [<i>He crosses -again to Teddy.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Frederick, what did you think when -you heard Jimmy Sheppard was dead?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, I thought he was dead, of course. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter leaves Mrs. Pampinelli, passing back of -her, and goes up to assist Jenny with her arrangements. -Mrs. Pampinelli busies herself with making notations -on the margin of the manuscript, at the little table.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Flipping the tip of her fan in his face</i>] -Oh, did you, Smarty! [<i>Ritter raises his right hand, as -though to ward off the blow.</i>] Well, listen, Frederick. -[<i>He attends, and she becomes confidential.</i>] He left -quite a bit of insurance, didn’t he?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes—about three hundred thousand, I believe.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Becoming generally stoney</i>] Is there a -will, do you know?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I don’t know; I suppose there is.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Well, I hope she was sharp enough to -see that there is. Because if there isn’t, you know, -she’s only entitled to a third in this state. That’s all -the widow’s entitled to. And, you know, Frederick, -Clara Sheppard could never in this world get along -on a bare hundred thousand dollars; you know that -as well as I do.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, she has quite a bit of money of her -own, hasn’t she?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, tons of it, yes; but there’s no sense -in using her own if she can use his. [<i>Ritter glances at -her, but she has turned away slightly to cough, behind -her fan. Jenny goes out at the left hallway.</i>] Was -sudden, wasn’t it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, it was.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> We were terribly inconvenienced. Because -I’d simply <i>deluged</i> my friends with tickets. [<i>Mrs. -Ritter is up at the punch-bowl, sampling the punch -and nibbling at the cakes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I can’t understand why you didn’t postpone -the show.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> That’s what <i>I</i> wanted to do; but Mrs. -P. here was superstitious.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Catching her name, and -straightening up from the manuscript, imperiously</i>] -What are you saying about Mrs. P., Nelly Fell?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Why, Frederick was wondering why -we didn’t postpone the performance when Jimmy -Sheppard died,—and <i>I</i> told him you were superstitious -about a postponement.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, Nelly, I was not superstitious, -so please don’t say that I was; I shouldn’t -care to have such an impression get abroad.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Touching her hair</i>] Well, you were -something, Betty.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, Nelly, I admit that I was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span> -something,—but it was not superstitious. I was,—[<i>She -looks out and away off, and feels for the word.</i>] -intuitive. [<i>She turns her head and looks directly at -Ritter, who drops his eyes to the tip of his cigar. Nelly -Fell, following Mrs. Pampinelli’s eyes, looks at Ritter -also. Then everyone’s eyes shift to Mrs. Pampinelli. -Florence turns languidly and looks; and Mrs. -Ritter, with a glass of punch in one hand, and a small -cake in the other, moves forward, in the middle of the -room, and stands looking and listening—and chewing. -Hossefrosse steps over to the table behind which Mrs. -Pampinelli is standing, and takes the manuscript,—returning -with it to the arm-chair, and becoming absorbed -in a comparison of a certain page of it with his -individual part.</i>] I have struggled so long to inaugurate -a Little Theatre Movement in this community, that I -had intuitively anticipated the occurrence of some obstacle -to thwart me; so that, when the telephone-bell -rang, on the night of Mr. Sheppard’s death, I said -to myself, before I even took down the receiver, [<i>She -plants her lead-pencil on the table and assumes something -of the aspect of a crusader.</i>] “<i>This</i> is my event. -Something has happened—that is going to put my sincerity -in this movement to the test. And I must remember, -as Mr. Lincoln said at Gettysburg, ‘It is better that -we should perish, than that those ideals for which we -struggle should perish.’” [<i>She turns her gaze in the -direction of Ritter, but Mrs. Ritter is first in the line -of vision, with her eyes full of the coast of Greenland,</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span> -<i>and her mouth full of cake. As she becomes suddenly -conscious that Mrs. Pampinelli has stopped talking and -is looking directly at her, she meets the look and breaks -into an utterly irrelevant little laugh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> It’s a singular thing, but I’ve noticed that -invariably there’s a <i>fatality</i> connected with these amateur -performances.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Unfortunately, that is true, -Mr. Ritter, I agree with you. But then, we are not -dismayed; we have the lessons of history to fortify us; -for whenever the torch of essential culture has been -raised, [<i>She raises the lead-pencil as though it were a -torch.</i>] there has unfailingly been the concomitant exactment -of a human life. [<i>She stands holding the torch -aloft until the little cuckoo-clock over the door at the -left cuckoos the half-hour. Ritter looks at it, and -Nelly Fell gives it a glance. Florence, too, turns and -looks up. Then Mrs. Pampinelli turns her eyes slowly -upon it and withers it with a look.</i>] Well, children, -it’s eight-thirty,—[<i>She gathers up her train and tosses -it across her left arm, then comes around to the right in -front of the table where she has been standing. Mrs. -Ritter returns to the table in the hallway and sets down -her empty glass. Ritter goes up after her and she fills -him out a drink. Florence rises from the arm of the -chair, and, passing in front of the table at the left, -goes up and across back of the piano and out the door, -at the right. As she passes above the piano she says -something to Teddy, who has come down at the right</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span> -<i>of the piano, from his late position up near the door, -and is crossing below it. Twiller turns and goes out -through the center-door and stands leaning over the -partition in the right hallway. Hossefrosse rises, settles -his clothes and clears his throat. Mr. Spindler, -also, has risen, and is replacing his chair back against -the wall, below the door.</i>] Time we went “unto the -breach” once more.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Stepping forward a little to the center -of the room, and stretching her hand towards Mr. -Hossefrosse</i>] You have my props, Huxley.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Crossing below the table, to give her -the manuscript</i>] I beg your pardon, Nelly; I was just -looking at something here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Thanks. [<i>She pulls him towards her -and whispers something.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing at the left of the little -table</i>] Have you my other pencil, Mr. Spindler?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Hurrying across towards her</i>] I believe -you left it over here on this little table. [<i>He passes -below Teddy, who is just crossing to the left, and -continues on between the piano and the table to the -little table below the casement-window. Nelly Fell -breaks into a shrill giggle, pushes Hossefrosse towards -the center-door, and crosses to the left, passing below -the table. She is in a violent state of laughter. Hossefrosse -goes on up to the center-door, and, excusing himself -to Ritter, who is standing there drinking, passes -out into the right hallway. Teddy comes around back</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span> -<i>of the arm-chair at the left and sits in the arm-chair. -Mrs. Pampinelli has moved to the right of the table -below the piano, where she stands reviewing her notes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Teddy, confidentially, as she takes -up her position on the chair below the door at the -left</i>] I’ll tell you later. [<i>She sits down.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Tapping her lead-pencil on the -table and addressing them generally</i>] Now, folks,—[<i>Ritter -sets his glass on the table and steps into the -right hallway, where he converses with Twiller for a -second, then stands listening; while Mrs. Ritter hurries -in and settles herself on the partition-seat at the -left and listens attentively.</i>] you understand, of course, -that the setting will be just as it was at the Civic Club -on the fourteenth; only, of course, as you know, the -stage at Hutchy Kutchy is considerably larger. That, -however, need not concern us particularly, as the entrances -and exits will be relatively the same. [<i>She -finishes this speech to Mr. Spindler, who is standing -at her right, waiting for her to take the lead-pencil.</i>] -Oh, thank you, Mr. Spindler. [<i>She gives him the one -she has—simply an exchange of pencils, and he salutes -and returns to a position below the casement-window. -Florence comes in at the right door again, wearing her -furs, and comes down at the right of the piano. Mrs. -Pampinelli moves a little towards the center-door.</i>] -Are you going to watch the rehearsal, Mr. Ritter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Of course, he is!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming through the center-door</i>] If I -wouldn’t be in the way.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Not at all,—very glad to have -you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> He can sit over here with the promptress. -[<i>He crosses towards Nelly, picking up the little -chair above the table at the left, as he passes. Hossefrosse -emerges from the right hallway carrying a light, -soft hat, a cane and gloves, and stands in the center-door. -Florence steps across below the piano and asks -Mrs. Pampinelli something.</i>] If you can behave yourself. -[<i>Florence returns to the corner of the piano nearest -the window and drapes herself on it. She’s a very -gorgeous-looking thing, in a sleeveless gown of canary-colored -metallic silk, made quite daringly severe, to -exploit the long, lithe lines of her greyhound figure. -There’s a chain-effect girdle with the dress, of vivid -jade, worn loose, and an ornament of the same jade on -the left shoulder, from which the goods falls in a plain -drape down in front of the arm to the bottom of the -skirt. She has a perfect shock of hair,—rather striking,—a -kind of suspicious auburn; and she has it -bobbed. Her slippers and stockings are white.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You needn’t sit there yet, Teddy, -I’m going to run through the last scene first,—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Rising</i>] Oh, all right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> For Mr. Hossefrosse’s lines. -[<i>Teddy passes in front of the table at the left and -goes up to the center-door and out into the right hallway,</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span> -<i>where he chats with Twiller and watches the -proceedings over the partition. Spindler comes over -and asks Mrs. Pampinelli something. Ritter places -his chair beside Nelly’s, above it, and sits down, assuming -the attitude of a lover.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Pushing Ritter’s arm away</i>] Stop it, -Frederick Ritter! Paula! [<i>Spindler returns to his -post.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Inanely</i>] Behave yourself, Fred.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Now, folks,—[<i>She moves slowly -down and across towards the table at the left.</i>] Mr. -Spindler will attend to the various cues tonight, and -at the performance tomorrow night as well. [<i>Speaking -directly to Nelly</i>] So we won’t have to bother -about that. [<i>Turning round to her left and addressing -the others</i>] He will do all the rapping. [<i>She raps -a little.</i>] And he has a little telephone-bell of his own, -[<i>She moves across again towards the back of the table -at the right.</i>] which he has very kindly tendered the use -of. Have you that bell with you tonight, Mr. Spindler? -[<i>He holds out a bell and battery arrangement -on a piece of wood, having taken it from his pocket immediately -she referred to it, and rings it twice.</i>] Splendid. -[<i>She passes above the table and comes forward at -the right of it, very thoughtfully.</i>] That’s splendid. -[<i>Spindler replaces the battery.</i>] Now, children,—[<i>She -crosses in front of the table.</i>] I think, first, I should -like to take that scene at the finish, between Doctor -Arlington and his wife; [<i>She is standing at the left</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span> -<i>of the table, speaking directly to Hossefrosse, who is -standing in the center-door, with his hat on, at a rather -absurd angle, and holding his cane in one hand and -his gloves in the other, in a very stilted fashion. Hossefrosse -is a terribly well-fed-looking person in dinner -clothes, perhaps, thirty-eight years of age,—flamingly -florid of complexion, and with an effusiveness of manner -that is probably only saved from absolute effervescence -by the ponderous counterpoise of his dignity.</i>] -there are a few little things in there I want to correct. -[<i>Crossing over back of the table at the left towards -Mrs. Fell</i>] Page eighteen or nineteen, I think it is, -Nelly. It’s the scene at the finish between Mr. Hossefrosse -and Miss McCrickett. [<i>Nelly looks for the -place, through her lorgnon.</i>] Oh! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -turns back to the others again.</i>] and one thing more I -want to mention, boys and girls, before I forget it. -[<i>She takes a funny little coughing spell.</i>] Pardon me. -[<i>She coughs again.</i>] Oh, dear me! [<i>She closes her eyes -tight and shivers her head.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Page eighteen did you say it was, -Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Eighteen or nineteen, yes. It’s -somewhere right in there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, yes, here it is, I have it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning back to the people, -and speaking with careful emphasis</i>] When you are -going on and off the stage, be very careful of those -little wooden strips that they have across the bottoms<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span> -of the doors, and don’t trip. [<i>Mrs. Ritter laughs self-consciously -and Hossefrosse leans over and says something -to her. Florence laughs, and turns and says -something to Spindler, and Teddy and Twiller laugh -and look toward Mrs. Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Looking out around Mrs. Pampinelli -to see Mrs. Ritter</i>] Paula! [<i>Then she sits back, laughing, -and says something to Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I really think that was what -made some of you so nervous at the Civic Club the -last time. So, watch it, all of you, for they will -probably have just the same thing down at Hutchy -Kutchy.—There is perhaps nothing quite so disconcerting -as to trip—as one comes on a stage. Going -off—is not so bad; but—coming on, I have found that -it requires a <i>tremendous</i> artist to rise above it. [<i>She -starts down towards the table at the right, below the -piano.</i>] So, watch it, all of you. Now, is everybody -in his place? [<i>She stops below the table and picks up -her note-book.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Handing Ritter the manuscript and -getting up suddenly</i>] Oh, just one moment, Betty! -[<i>She teeters across to the table at the right.</i>] I want to -get my other glasses—they’re right here in my bag. -[<i>She picks up the bag and starts back to her place.</i>] -I beg pardon, everybody, but I can’t tell one letter -from another without these glasses. [<i>This last sentence -culminates in a flighty giggle, for no reason at all, and</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span> -<i>then she sits down, and heaves a deep sigh of amusement.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Who has been looking at her -steadily</i>] <i>Now</i>, is everybody ready? [<i>Mrs. Fell simply -lifts her eyes and looks at her; then proceeds to get her -glasses out of the bag.</i>] Use your voices, children, and -try to do it tonight just as you are going to do it tomorrow -night at Hutchy Kutchy. [<i>She moves a step -or two nearer the middle of the room.</i>] Doctor Arlington -is still in his office.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Rush—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Coming in through the center-door</i>] -Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Is just about to make his exit. -[<i>He crosses above the piano and stands waiting at the -right door. He’s a bald-headed youth, between thirty -and thirty-five, in dinner clothes, excessively well-groomed -but utterly nondescript.</i>] And Mrs. Arlington -is putting on the deadlatch. [<i>Florence straightens -up.</i>] All ready, now? [<i>She holds up her hands for a -second, then claps them once.</i>] All right. [<i>Twiller goes -out through the right door and Mrs. Pampinelli moves -over towards the right, watching Florence.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Pretending to put on a deadlatch</i>] -Deadlatch.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Standing in rigid military fashion</i>] -Click—click. [<i>Florence turns and starts across towards</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[64]</a></span> -<i>the middle of the room, passing between the piano and -the table below it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Glancing toward the center-door</i>] You -can come out now, Clyde, they’ve gone. [<i>She continues -to the table at the left and stands resting one hand -upon it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Bustling forward from the center-door, -removing his hat as he comes</i>] Anybody here, -David? [<i>Spindler whistles shrilly, takes a step forward -and tries to attract Hossefrosse’s attention, by -holding up his right arm and flicking his fingers at -him. Teddy laughs and turns to tell Twiller, who -is just rejoining him from the right hallway, what -has happened. Florence turns and looks at Hossefrosse, -then at Mrs. Pampinelli, who is standing at -the right of the table below the piano. Mrs. Ritter -gets up and simply staggers laughing through the center-door -and out to Teddy and Twiller.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Speaking to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] That -isn’t right, is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Spindler at her -right and holding up her hand</i>] Please don’t whistle, -Mr. Spindler! I can’t stand whistling.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I thought we were going to take the -<i>last</i> scene first.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Moving around in front of the -table and going near to Hossefrosse</i>] We are taking<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[65]</a></span> -the <i>last</i> scene <i>first</i>, Mr. Hossefrosse, that is the <i>first</i> -scene.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Holding up her hand</i>] Wait a moment, -wait one moment, just one moment, somebody’s off -the track! [<i>Twiller and Teddy laugh again and -Hossefrosse turns and looks at them. Twiller shakes -his head, flips his hand at him and walks away into the -right hallway, as though deploring his stupidity. Ritter -begins to laugh.</i>]</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I thought I had made that sufficiently -clear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, <span class="smcap">Spindler</span> and -<span class="smcap">Twiller</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> We are taking the scene at -the finish, Mr. Hossefrosse, between you and Miss -McCrickett.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Rising</i>] That’s the first scene, Huxley, -and we are taking the last scene, between you and -Florence, on page nineteen, right here, [<i>She indicates -the place in the manuscript</i>].</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Addressing Teddy</i>] I hope he doesn’t -pull anything like that tomorrow night. [<i>He returns -to his place below the window.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Coming back into view from the hallway</i>] -Don’t weaken, Huxley, you know what they -say about a bad rehearsal.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Topping them all</i>] Please, -children, please!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Down at the bottom of the page.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[66]</a></span> -[<i>Mrs. Ritter comes through the center-door again -and sits down on the left partition-seat.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Mrs. Fell</i>] -Please—[<i>Mrs. Fell sits down again, slowly, Mrs. Pampinelli -looking at her stonily.</i>] Let us have one director, -if you please. [<i>She withdraws her eyes slowly, and -Nelly darts a bitter look at her.</i>] Now, don’t let -us have everybody talking at once; it only confuses -people, and wastes a lot of time. [<i>Hossefrosse stands -bewildered in the middle of the room. Mrs. Pampinelli -addresses him directly, speaking with measured -emphasis.</i>] We are taking the <i>last</i> scene <i>first</i>, Mr. -Hossefrosse: it is the scene at the finish, between you -and Miss McCrickett, just before Paula comes on,—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Oh, I beg your pardon!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And <i>after</i> Mr. Rush has left -the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I thought we were beginning right -from the beginning.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, I’d like to run through -the <i>last</i> scene <i>first</i>, if you don’t mind; there are a few -little things in it I’d like to correct.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning and starting for the center-door</i>] -This was the wrong entrance for that line, -anyway.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And you won’t need your hat -and cane in this scene.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> That’s so, too.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[67]</a></span><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Who is standing out just at the right of -the center-door</i>] I’ll take them, Hux.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Handing him the hat, gloves and -cane</i>] Thanks. [<i>Turning to Mrs. Ritter</i>] I’ll get -straightened out after while. [<i>Paula laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Now, Florence dear, will you -go back?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Crossing back again to the window</i>] -Certainly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Crossing back to the right, in -front of the table</i>] And take it right from Mr. Rush’s -exit.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Looking round at Hossefrosse</i>] Ready?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>In the center-door</i>] Yes, I’m ready.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Florence</i>] Go on.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Repeating her former business of putting -on a deadlatch</i>] Deadlatch.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Having again assumed his rigid military -attitude</i>] Click—click. [<i>Florence turns and crosses -again between the piano and the table.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>With a glance at the center-door</i>] You -can come out now, Clyde, they’ve gone. [<i>She continues -to her former position at the right of the little -table at the left. Hossefrosse steps resolutely through -the center-door, gives her a wicked look, glances toward -the door at the right, then strides forward and -plants himself directly opposite her, his head thrown -back, his eyes ablaze, and his arms akimbo.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Did you come here to make a scene!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[68]</a></span><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Languidly, and without turning</i>] Have -I made one?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Getting loud</i>] What are you doing -here?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Raising her hand to enjoin silence</i>] -Sh-sh—[<i>He turns abruptly and looks toward the door -at the right; then back to her again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I want an explanation of this!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Turning to him, and rather casually</i>] -So do I.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing at the right of the -table below the piano</i>] Oh, more imperious, Florence -dear! [<i>Florence and Hossefrosse look at her.</i>] More -of this. [<i>She lifts her shoulders, eyebrows and chin, -to illustrate her idea of the general hauteur of the -line.</i>] Much more.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Vaguely</i>] Don’t you think she would -cry there? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli looks at her steadily -for a pause and thinks: then she rests her lead-pencil -on the table and tilts her head a bit to one side.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Do you want to cry there, -dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> No, but I can if you want me to.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No,—personally, I think she’s -speaking more in anger than in sorrow. You see, -dear, you are impersonating a wronged wife. Now, -you yourself, Florence darling, are an unmarried girl:—it -is difficult for you to realize how excessively annoyed -with her husband a married woman can become.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[69]</a></span> -I think I would take it with more <i>lift</i>. More of this, -you know. [<i>She repeats her former illustration.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Endeavoring to imitate the manner of -delivery, and speaking in a deep, tragic tone</i>] So do I.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Perfect.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] Go -on?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, go on.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Clearing his throat and trying to -summon his attack</i>] What is your reason for sneaking -into my office at this hour?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Is it necessary that your wife have a -reason for coming to your office?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> You wanted to embarrass Mrs. Rush, -that was it, wasn’t it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Waving her hand toward them -with an upward movement</i>] Tempo, children!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I wanted to meet my rival.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> You could have met Mrs. Rush under -more candid circumstances.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Moving around towards them, -in front of the table</i>] Tempo, children!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> The present ones suited my purposes -better.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning away impatiently</i>] Naturally!—You -wanted a scene! [<i>He starts over to the right, -but Mrs. Pampinelli is standing right in his way, so -he stops short, but maintains the physical tautness of -his character. Florence, too, has turned away, to the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[70]</a></span> -<i>left, and is moving across in front of the table towards -the arm-chair.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Oblivious of Hossefrosse, and -still making her upward waving gesture over his shoulder</i>] -Tempo, Florence! [<i>Suddenly becoming conscious -that she is obstructing Hossefrosse’s cross, and stepping -below him</i>] I beg your pardon.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Bowing stiffly</i>] Not at all. [<i>He -continues over to the right and stops, right in front -of Spindler, and they stand looking into each other’s -eyes; while Mrs. Pampinelli comes up at the left of -the table to the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Sitting down in the arm-chair</i>] I think -if I were a scenic woman I’ve had ample opportunity -during the last fifteen minutes to indulge myself.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Still looking into Spindler’s eyes</i>] -You did I think;—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Beckoning to Spindler</i>] Mr. -Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I had the pleasure of hearing you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Was it a pleasure, Clyde?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Still beckoning to Spindler</i>] -Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Whirling around and glaring at Florence</i>] -It appears to amuse you! [<i>Spindler steps below -Hossefrosse and passes up in front of him to Mrs. -Pampinelli, who whispers something to him.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[71]</a></span><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Unfastening her neckpiece</i>] I have an -inopportune sense of humor.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> You should be able to appreciate the -situation, you created it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Looking over at him</i>] I didn’t create -her husband.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Making a little gesture of annoyance</i>] -I’m afraid I’m stuck! [<i>He tries hard to think, and -Mrs. Pampinelli makes a gesture toward Mrs. Fell -to give him the line, but Nelly is occupied in telling -Ritter a story.</i>] But, don’t tell me! [<i>He feels for the -line again, and Mrs. Pampinelli tries to attract Nelly’s -attention.</i>] I guess I’m gone. [<i>Suddenly Nelly bursts -into a fit of laughing, having made the point of the -story.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What is the line, Nelly? [<i>Ritter -nudges her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Stopping suddenly in her laughter and -hitting him with her fan</i>] Stop that!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Get on your job, you’re holding up the -show. [<i>Nelly looks excitedly toward Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What is the line, Nelly, please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What! Oh, I beg your pardon, is somebody -stuck?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Hossefrosse.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Got another mind-blank.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, well, now, just wait one minute, -please, till I see where I’m at. [<i>She searches frantically</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[72]</a></span> -<i>through the manuscript.</i>] Oh, yes, here it is! -[<i>Ritter indicates a place on the page. She pushes his -arm out of the way.</i>] I didn’t create her husband. -[<i>Teddy and Twiller laugh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Florence</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, -together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, dear, we’ve just passed -that.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I’ve already said that, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> It’s the next line.</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Vaguely, and looking through her -lorgnon and spectacles at the manuscript</i>] Oh, have -we passed that!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> The next line after the one -you just read.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, I see now where we are! The -next line after that is, “You’ve all been listening to -a lot of damned, cheap gossip.”</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That’s it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] That certainly -is my Jonah line.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You’ve all been list—[<i>Spindler -goes around to the right and sits on the piano-stool, -looking near-sightedly at the music.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning to Florence, and assuming -his character again</i>] You’ve all been listening to a lot -of damned, cheap gossip! [<i>He starts to cross towards -the left, passing between the piano and the table, but</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[73]</a></span> -<i>Mrs. Pampinelli is right in his way again, so he is -obliged to stop short and wait.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Which should show you that people are -talking. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli turns to see why Hossefrosse -is not picking up his line.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Stepping out of his way</i>] I -beg your pardon. [<i>She circles down at the left of the -table again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Continuing over towards the mantelpiece</i>] -My fault. One or two old women, perhaps.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Will it confine itself to those?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning at the mantelpiece and -coming back to the middle of the room</i>] Well, I can’t -control that.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Have you tried?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Whirling upon her, and literally -shouting</i>] No!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing at the right of the -table below the piano</i>] Excellent.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning and bowing briefly to her</i>] -Thank you very much. [<i>Resuming the scene with -Florence</i>] And I don’t intend to. People will always -talk; it may as well be at my expense as anybody else’s.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Leaning towards him across the -table, and speaking with poisonous sweetness</i>] Anybody’s -<i>else</i>, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Beg pardon?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Would you say anybody’s else; -it sounds better.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning back again to Florence</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[74]</a></span> -It may as well be at my expense as anybody else’s. -[<i>Mr. Spindler’s elbow slips off the piano onto the keyboard, -striking a perfectly villainous chord, and causing -everybody to turn and look in that direction.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Spindler, please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Adjusting his goggles, which have been -slightly dislodged by the incident</i>] I’m sorry. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli turns back to Hossefrosse.</i>] Never mind, Mr. -Hossefrosse, it will come.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Your position can’t afford it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Taking a step towards the right</i>] -I’ve given them nothing to talk about.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> No? [<i>He stops abruptly and turns and -looks at her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What? [<i>He takes a couple of steps -towards her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Rising</i>] Please, Clyde!—[<i>She crosses -in front of the table at the left and goes towards him. -Mrs. Ritter gets up from the partition-seat and comes -down to the table at the right, below the piano.</i>] You’re -not talking to your office-boy—[<i>Mrs. Ritter picks up -the little chair from the left of the table and starts -back again towards the center-door.</i>] Let us get to the -point.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Very well.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. -Ritter.</span>—Excuse me, Florence. [<i>Florence bows and -smiles.</i>] And you, too, Mr. Hossefrosse.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What brought you here tonight?<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[75]</a></span> -[<i>He turns to see the cause of the movement behind him.</i>] -Don’t mention it. [<i>Mrs. Ritter places the chair in -front of the partition where she has been sitting, then -crosses to the piano and gets her sewing-basket, returning -with it to the chair and sitting down to sew.</i>]</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Not to quarrel with you, for one thing.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> You wanted to embarrass Mrs. -Rush, that was it, wasn’t it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Not at all,—you misunderstood me; -I said, “I wanted to <i>meet</i> Mrs. Rush.” [<i>Teddy comes -in through the center-door from the right hallway and -sits down on the partition-seat at the right. Teddy is -a frail little wisp of a youth around twenty, in dinner -clothes. He has big eyes and good teeth, and laughs -on the slightest provocation. His forehead is defectively -high, and his thin hair is plastered back and brilliantined. -His type is always to be found draped upon -the banisters or across the pianos in the houses of the -rich,—a kind of social annoyance, created by wealthy -connections and the usual lack of available men.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What did you want to meet her for? -[<i>Twiller steps through the center-door from the right -hallway and whispers something to Mrs. Ritter. She -answers him, and he steps out into the hallway and fills -himself out a glass of claret from the bowl, then goes -up and sits on the landing of the stairway and watches -the rehearsal.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Why, I thought that we three might—reason -together, [<i>He holds her eye for a second, then</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[76]</a></span> -<i>turns away, and reaches in his various pockets for his -cigarettes.</i>] concerning our respective futures.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>In a lowered tone, to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -Forgot my cigarettes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Never mind, I only want lines. -Go on, Florence. [<i>Hossefrosse takes an imaginary -cigarette from an imaginary case, replaces the case, -taps the cigarette on the back of his hand, puts it in -his mouth, strikes an imaginary match on his shoe, and -lights the cigarette.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I’ve deferred the discussion for a long -time, but it may as well be today as tomorrow.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Your plan didn’t work out very -well, did it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Oh, yes, very well indeed; although -hardly as I had anticipated; thanks to <i>her</i> husband and -<i>your</i> lies. [<i>He blows out the imaginary match and -tosses it onto the floor at the right; then snaps his head -around and glares at Florence. Mrs. Pampinelli glances -down onto the floor, as though to assure herself that -Mr. Hossefrosse hasn’t really thrown a lighted match -onto the carpet.</i>] You’ve evidently told this boy here -that Mrs. Rush is your wife.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I’ve told him nothing of the kind! -[<i>He starts to cross again to the right, but Mrs. Pampinelli -is again right in his pathway, standing in front -of the table below the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Stepping below him, and going -a step or two nearer Florence</i>] I beg your pardon.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I beg your pardon. [<i>He continues</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[77]</a></span> -<i>over to the table below the window at the right and -stands there, pretending to smoke.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Then, you’ve allowed him to think so.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Looking straight ahead</i>] That’s -business.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Perhaps it is. It has at least allowed -you to be present at the passing of Mrs. Rush. [<i>She -turns and goes towards the back. Mrs. Ritter calls -her to her and they start discussing the hang of Florence’s -skirt.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Whirling around</i>] You are deliberately -misinterpreting this situation! [<i>He starts to -move across towards her, passing between the piano and -table.</i>] Yes you are! It’s perfectly ridiculous that a -physician cannot take a woman patient without being -subjected to the whisperings of a lot of vulgar scandal-mongers! -[<i>Nelly Fell goes into violent laughter at -something Ritter has just finished telling her. Florence -and Mrs. Ritter continue their discussion of the dress, -and Mrs. Pampinelli tries by dint of gesturing to attract -Florence’s attention.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Florence dear, please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Turning suddenly, and continuing her -lines</i>] Oh, I beg your pardon! [<i>She moves slowly -towards the mantelpiece.</i>] This is not a romantic age, -Clyde.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Mrs. Rush is a patient of mine!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Moving down at the left towards -Ritter and Mrs. Fell</i>] She may have been originally.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[78]</a></span> -[<i>Mrs. Fell bursts out afresh over something else that -Ritter whispers.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Flicking her finger at Nelly</i>] -Sh-sh-Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Florence, who is standing looking -at her</i>] I beg your pardon.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Standing in the middle of the room</i>] -She is <i>now</i>!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Resting one hand on the arm-chair</i>] -I’m not disputing it. [<i>He turns away, and stands at -the left of the table below the piano.</i>] But she must -have a very persistent malady—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Just one minute, Flossie—one minute—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> That hasn’t responded to a treatment -of more than six years—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Flossie, Flossie, Flossie! [<i>Florence -stops and looks at her.</i>] Just a minute. [<i>She looks -sharply at her manuscript.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What is the matter, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, I beg your pardon, I thought -she’d omitted a line. [<i>To Florence</i>] I beg your pardon.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Go on, Florence. [<i>Ritter -says something to Nelly and she hits him with the manuscript.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Not to speak of the innumerable changes -of air that she’s enjoyed—[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli, standing -over at the right below the piano, takes quite a little -coughing spell, and Mrs. Ritter promptly gets up and -goes to the punch-bowl to fill her out a glass of punch.</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[79]</a></span> -at your expense; and under your personal escort. -[<i>Hossefrosse looks over at her. She raises her hand -understandingly, and starts slowly across in front of the -table towards him.</i>] I have the day and date of the majority -of them. So, you see, your chivalry is a bit trying, -under the circumstances. [<i>He looks straight ahead -and tries to look sullen and defeated.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Up in the center-door, holding aloft -a glass of punch</i>] Betty!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> But, I haven’t come here to reproach -you, or to plead for your return. Not at all. I think -you <i>love</i> this woman.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming a little further forward</i>] -Betty! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli has another coughing spell.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> And in that case, I want to offer you -your freedom—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Careful, now, children. [<i>Mrs. -Ritter comes forward to the table at the left and tries -to attract Mrs. Pampinelli’s attention to the glass of -punch.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> If you want it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Holding up her forefinger</i>] -One, two, three.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Snapping his head around and -shouting at Florence</i>] Well, I don’t want it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Good!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> And I see absolutely no occasion for -any such talk. [<i>Mrs. Fell drops her bag and reaches -for it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> You are probably more broad-minded<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[80]</a></span> -than I. [<i>Nelly Fell utters a piercing little shriek, -having almost fallen off the chair in reaching to pick -up her bag. Everyone turns and looks, and Teddy -laughs, as usual.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What’s the matter, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Straightening up, with Ritter’s assistance, -and laughing</i>] I nearly fell off the chair. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter laughs and returns to the center-door and -stands.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Go on, Florence.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> And, really, I don’t think your freedom -would be a very good thing for you. You have a -form of respectability that requires a certain anchorage -in the conventions. But unless you can reconcile yourself -in the future to a more literal observance of those -conventions, I shall be obliged to insist that you <i>take</i> -your freedom.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Look at her, Mr. Hossefrosse.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Beg pardon?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a touch of impatience</i>] -Look at her! [<i>She begins to cough again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Oh, yes, yes! [<i>He turns and glares -at Florence, who is standing just a couple of feet away -from him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Holding the glass of punch aloft -again</i>] Betty!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I have a couple of growing boys,—[<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli passes right up between Florence and -Hossefrosse to Mrs. Ritter, and takes the glass of claret.</i>] -who are beginning to ask me questions which I find too<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[81]</a></span> -difficult to answer: and I will neither lie to them—nor -allow them to pity me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What do you want me to do?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Handing the claret-glass back -to Paula, who goes to the bowl and refills it, and the -note-book and pencil to Teddy</i>] Just a moment. [<i>She -turns and comes forward in the middle of the room. -Florence turns and moves over to the table at the left, -and Hossefrosse remains standing at the table at the -right.</i>] Just one moment. Listen, Florence dear. [<i>She -uses her handkerchief, then stuffs it into the bosom of -her dress.</i>] I want you, if you can, to make just a little -bit more of that last line. Within the limits of the -characterization, of course; but if you can <i>feel</i> it, I’d -like you to give me just the barest suggestion of a tear. -Not too much; but just enough to show that,—under -all her courage—and her threatening, she is still a -woman—and a Mother. You see what I mean, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> More emotion.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> In that last line. You are -doing splendidly, darling, [<i>Turning to Hossefrosse</i>] -both of you; [<i>He acknowledges his excellence with a -short bow.</i>] but I have always <i>felt</i> that that last line—was -really the <i>big</i> moment—of the play. It seems to me—[<i>She -toys with her necklace, narrows her eyes and -looks away off.</i>] that it is there—that she makes her -big plea, for her boys, for her home,—for every woman’s -home. And even though that plea <i>is</i> made in the form -of a threat,—somehow or other—I seem to hear her -saying, sub-vocally, of course, “In God’s <i>name, don’t</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[82]</a></span> -make it necessary for me to do this thing!” [<i>She concludes -this speech rather dramatically, her arms outstretched. -Mr. Spindler, at this point, engaged in a -too curious examination of the keyboard, accidentally -touches D flat above High C. Everybody turns and -looks at him, but his consciousness of guilt does not permit -of his meeting their eyes, so he remains bent over -the keyboard in precisely the attitude he was in when -he struck the note.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, go away from that piano, Mr. -Spindler! [<i>Mrs. Ritter comes forward at the left -with a dish of cakes and a glass of claret.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Withdrawing her eyes witheringly -from Spindler and turning back to Florence</i>] -Do you see what I mean, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I think I do. Do you want me to go -back?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, that’s quite all right. We’ll -take it right from Mr. Hossefrosse’s line, [<i>She turns -toward Hossefrosse. And Mrs. Ritter takes advantage -of the circumstance to offer Florence a cake; which, -of course, is declined with thanks. Then she turns to -Mrs. Pampinelli and waits till the lady has finished -directing Hossefrosse.</i>] “What do you want me to do?” -[<i>Mrs. P. turns back, to be confronted with the cakes -and claret; and she takes both. Then she and Paula -move back towards the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Clearing his throat</i>] What do you -want me to do? [<i>Paula gives a shriek of laughter, at -something Mrs. Pampinelli whispers to her. Then</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[83]</a></span> -<i>Paula goes out through the center-door and offers Twiller, -who is still sitting half-way up the stairs, some cake, -which he accepts, and then Teddy, who declines, and -finally, after taking another one herself, sets the plate -down on the hallway table and resumes her chair up -at the left; while Mrs. Pampinelli, cake and claret in -hand, wanders forward at the right, passing over between -the piano and the table below it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I’ve already told you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Then, I suppose I’m simply to decline -all women patients in the future, [<i>She makes a little -sound of amusement.</i>] or else submit them for general -approval. [<i>He now presses the imaginary fire out of -the cigarette on the imaginary tray on the table.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Stick to your guns, Clyde.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> That’s the only thing I see to do. -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli stands over at the right watching -the scene, and eating and drinking.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Your tenacity is commendable, but it’s -a lost cause. [<i>Looking at him steadily</i>] I appreciate -your embarrassment—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning to her, thrusting his hands -into his coat-pockets, tilting his chin, and looking at -her with an absurdly perky expression</i>] I’m not embarrassed.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Desolation, then.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Snapping his fingers at her</i>] Ha! -[<i>He swings rather jauntily across and up towards the -mantelpiece.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[84]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> More nonchalance in the cross, -Mr. Hossefrosse.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning to her suddenly</i>] Me?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> More savoir faire, as we say -in French. [<i>She illustrates the idea with a kind of -floating gesture of the hand.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I see. [<i>He continues over to the -left and down towards Ritter and Mrs. Fell, endeavoring -to execute Mrs. Pampinelli’s idea by raising his -shoulders, stiffening his arms, throwing his head back -and swinging his legs, as he walks. Nelly Fell is whispering -something to Ritter behind her fan, so that, when -Hossefrosse reaches them, he is obliged to touch Ritter -on the shoulder and suggest with a nod and a smile -that the exigencies of the play require that he shall -sit where Ritter is sitting. So Ritter jumps up and -tiptoes across in front of the table and up to the piano, -where he stands leaning—and watching—particularly -Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Moving to the table below the piano</i>] -But, I shall be magnanimous; having loved and lost -myself. So that, really, it may not be nearly so difficult -as you imagine.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Sitting on the chair vacated by -Ritter</i>] Well, I can’t say that I relish the prospect, -with any such misunderstanding as this between us.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Crossing to the table at the left</i>] -It’s the portion of half the world, Clyde. [<i>Twiller -gets up from the stairs and comes down into the right -hallway, where he stands watching.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[85]</a></span><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Trying to look sullen, by resting -one elbow on his knee and hunching his shoulders</i>] -It certainly isn’t a very inviting one. [<i>Nelly Fell -starts to whisper something in his ear.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> But it has its compensations. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli, having finished her cake and claret, sets -the empty glass down on the table below the piano and -uses her handkerchief.</i>] You’ll have your memories, -and I shall have the wisdom of disillusionment;—[<i>The -telephone-bell rings, up in the left hallway. Mrs. -Ritter jumps up, places her sewing-basket on the chair, -and, touching her hair, comes forward quickly at the -right to the table below the piano.</i>] as well as the consciousness -of lots of company.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -Is that my cue? [<i>Florence stops and turns -and looks at her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Which cue, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Taking a step towards Florence, -and with a little questioning, bewildered gesture</i>] The -telephone is my cue, isn’t it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a touch of impatience</i>] -No, darling, you’re not on in this scene at all. Go on, -Florence. [<i>Mrs. Ritter puts her hand to her cheek -and looks from one to the other in puzzled embarrassment.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Turning and resuming her lines to -Hossefrosse, who, by this time, is deep in conversation -with Mrs. Fell</i>] For there are a million women exactly<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[86]</a></span> -like me. [<i>Mrs. Ritter bursts out laughing. So -does Teddy. Twiller reaches over the partition and -flips Teddy on the head with his handkerchief. Jenny -appears in the left hallway to answer the telephone.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span> and <span class="smcap">Florence</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] Oh, -I beg your pardon! [<i>She leans across the table explaining -to Mrs. Pampinelli, who tries politely to silence -her by suggestion that the scene is in progress.</i>] I -thought that was my cue.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence</span>—Secondary women. [<i>She moves around -above the table and stands just above Hossefrosse.</i>] So -don’t look so tragic; you haven’t lost anything but a -lot of time;</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>At the telephone</i>] Hello?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span>, <span class="smcap">Florence</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span>—I was thinking of something else, -you know, and when I heard the telephone, I thought -it was for me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span>—And that’s always lost when it’s spent -on things that are insusceptible of conclusion.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Bursting into a perfect shriek of -laughter at something Hossefrosse has just finished -telling her, and pushing him away from her</i>] Huxley -Hossefrosse, you are perfectly dreadful! [<i>He laughs, -too, and attempts to tell her something else, but she -turns away and waves him aside.</i>] No, No, No.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No dear, that is your own -telephone.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[87]</a></span><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>At the telephone still</i>] Just a minute. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter turns towards the back of the room.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, so it is! [<i>Directly to Ritter</i>] -I knew I had one telephone cue. [<i>She goes laughing -through the center-door and on out into the right hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Trying to attract Ritter’s attention</i>] -<span class="smcap">Mr. Ritter!</span> [<i>But Ritter is absorbed in watching -Hossefrosse. Florence stands waiting for Hossefrosse -and Nelly to stop laughing, but as it doesn’t look as -though they will ever stop, she gives Hossefrosse a -little dig in the shoulder with her finger. He straightens -up abruptly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Prompting him</i>] I’ve lost her.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Mr. Ritter!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I’ve lost her.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> That was inevitable in your case, Clyde; -you have a conventional soul. [<i>Jenny asks Teddy in -pantomime to attract Ritter’s attention.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>In a tone intended to express abysmal -despair</i>] I’ve lost you. [<i>Ritter bursts out laughing. -Teddy reaches out and indicates that he is wanted -on the telephone. Jenny holds the telephone up, and -he steps quickly out into the hallway to take it from -her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> That was incidental, eh?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> But, it seems to me there should be -some other way.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[88]</a></span><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Moving to the right, above the table</i>] -There is, my dear boy,—for lots of people——</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>at the telephone</i>] Hello? [<i>Jenny goes -out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> But not for you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> You’re too respectable—Physically, I -mean. [<i>She laughs a little, and stands above the table -looking at him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, wait a minute, I’ll talk to you upstairs. -[<i>He sets the telephone down and starts towards -the right to go upstairs. As he passes the center-door -he speaks to Teddy, who is still sitting just inside the -center-door on the right partition-seat.</i>] Hang that up -when I get on, will you, Teddy? [<i>Teddy jumps up -and goes out to the telephone, and holds it, waiting -till Ritter gets on the extension upstairs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> And Mrs. Rush has what it appears to -me to be a rather—primitive husband—[<i>Hossefrosse -gives her a narrow look.</i>] and you have a very modern -wife. So be wise, Clyde; you know what usually -happens to him who “loves the danger.” [<i>There is a -loud knock at the right door. Hossefrosse jumps to -his feet and stands looking fearfully toward it. Florence -assumes all the dignity at her command, drawing -herself up, placing her right hand upon her throat, -her left on her hip, and waiting,—the proud but outraged -wife. Mrs. Pampinelli holds up both hands -and looks in the direction of the door, to impress</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[89]</a></span> -<i>everybody with the dramatic value of the situation. -Teddy hangs up the receiver and stands watching her. -Nelly Fell straightens up briskly and sits watching the -door, in expectant attention. Then Mrs. Pampinelli -makes a gesture to Florence to go on with her lines.</i>] -Go into your office, I’ll talk to this woman. [<i>Hossefrosse -drops his head and shoulders and slinks across -in front of the table, a beaten man. He continues up -to the center-door and out, into the right hallway. The -knock is repeated at the right door. Mrs. Pampinelli -motions to Teddy that that is his cue to open the door. -He comes through the center-door and crosses above -the piano to the right door, Mrs. Pampinelli at the -same time moving over to the arm-chair at the right -and enshrining herself. Teddy opens the door; and -Mrs. Ritter swishes in self-consciously. Nelly Fell -and Mr. Twiller give a little ripple of applause, but -Mrs. Pampinelli holds one finger up toward Nelly and -shushes her. Mrs. Ritter is wearing a rather bizarre-looking -hat, set at something of a challenging angle, -and as she comes forward at the right of the piano, -she bursts into a self-conscious giggle. But Mrs. Pampinelli -reproves her with a look. So she controls herself -and crosses below the piano, Teddy, simultaneously, -crossing above the piano. She stops at the -corner of the piano and rests her left hand upon it. -Then she places her right hand upon her hip, and, -tilting her head back, looks at Teddy, who has stopped -directly above her. Ritter appears on the stairway,</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[90]</a></span> -<i>and moves down a step or two, watching his wife, -narrowly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Flipping her left hand at Teddy, -in an attempt to give a fly impression</i>] Hello, kid.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Hello, Mrs. Arlington. [<i>Mrs. Ritter -swishes down towards the left, shaking her head from -side to side and holding her arms akimbo. She turns -around to her left, gives Florence a look, supposed to -be a very contemptuous look, and stands in the middle -of the room again, facing Teddy.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Teddy</i>] Is -my sweetie in? [<i>Ritter moves slowly down to the -landing of the stairs, watching his wife as though she -were some baffling phenomenon.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No, mam, he ain’t.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Drawing her shoulders up, and -speaking in a high unnatural key</i>] What!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> He went about six o’clock.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, I had an appointment with -<i>him</i>!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> He might be back, maybe.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But, I can’t wait unless I’m <i>certain</i> -that he’s coming back.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> He was expecting you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Still shaking her head and trying -generally to appear bold</i>] Yes, I know he was. -[<i>Turning to the table at the left, back of which Florence -is standing</i>] I suppose I’d better leave a note -for him. [<i>She indicates the table with a waving gesture -of her left hand.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[91]</a></span><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> You’ll find that green one is the best pen.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Stepping to the table</i>] Thanks. -[<i>She looks at Florence, who gives her a withering -look over her right shoulder and turns away to the -mantelpiece at the left. Then Mrs. Ritter gives her -idea of a scornful laugh.</i>] Ha! Ha! Ha!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Sweeping his hand across his brow, -groaning, and falling down the stairs, into the right -hallway</i>] Oh my God!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Seeing him fall, and jumping -up</i>] Oh, my dear! [<i>Everybody turns.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Trying to catch him</i>] Hold it! -[<i>Spindler rushes past Mrs. Pampinelli and out the -center-door into the right hallway. Teddy jumps -into a kneeling position on the right partition-seat and -looks over the partition. Florence and Mrs. Fell rush -up to the center-door and try to see what’s going on, -Nelly dodging from one side of Florence to the other, -and peering through her lorgnon.</i>] Are you hurt, old -man?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Handing his cane and gloves to -Spindler</i>] Hold those, please. [<i>Spindler takes them, -and Hossefrosse prepares to assist Twiller to lift Ritter -from the floor.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Get some water, somebody! [<i>Spindler -rushes out the left hallway. Mrs. Pampinelli sweeps -up from below the table at the right to the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Bewildered, in the middle of the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[92]</a></span> -<i>room, as Mrs. Pampinelli passes her</i>] What is it, -Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Now, don’t get excited, Paula. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter steps frantically across to the piano and -turns, leaning against it, looking wide-eyed at Nelly -Fell.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Lift up his head.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Looking eagerly out into the -right hallway</i>] Is he hurt, boys?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I want to get him under the arms. -[<i>They lift Ritter onto a bench in the hallway. Nelly -Fell turns away from the center-door with an exclamation -of distress.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> We’d better lay him right here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Is it Fred, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I don’t know, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Addressing Hossefrosse and -Twiller</i>] You can lay him right here, boys, I think -it’ll be as good as any.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What is it, Florence, did Mr. Ritter -fall downstairs?</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I think so.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Covering her eyes and swaying</i>] Oh, -dear child, don’t! [<i>Florence puts her arm around -her and guides her towards the arm-chair at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Give me one of those pillows, -Teddy. [<i>He hands her a pillow from the partition-seat -where he’s kneeling.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[93]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Sinking into the arm-chair at the -left</i>] Betty, I think I’m going to faint!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to her</i>] Sit down, -dear, I’ll get you some water. [<i>Calling and beckoning -out into the left hallway</i>] Jenny dear! come here, -please!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Rushing across from the right to -the left hallway</i>] I think I’d better call Dr. Wentworth. -[<i>He snatches up the telephone and works the -hook violently.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, I would. [<i>She turns -around to her left and stands looking questioningly -at Mrs. Ritter.</i>] Go on with your lines, Paula.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Well, is he <i>dead</i>, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a definite little gesture -of her right hand</i>] Never mind! [<i>The curtain commences -to descend, and she sweeps forward.</i>] We will -go right on from where Mr. Ritter fell downstairs.</p> - - -<p class="center">THE CURTAIN IS DOWN</p> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">As it Rises Again for the Picture</span></p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>At the telephone</i>] Landsdowne 8, -please,—right away! [<i>Spindler rushes in from the -left hallway carrying a glass of water, and followed -immediately by Jenny. Twiller is ministering to Ritter. -Mrs. Pampinelli is standing in the middle of the -room, facing the center-door, and holding up both her -hands, as a signal to the various artists that the rehearsal -is about to be resumed; so they quickly step</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[94]</a></span> -<i>to the various positions in which they respectively were -when Mr. Ritter fell.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Addressing Teddy</i>] Yes, I know -he was. I s’pose I’d better leave a note for him.</p> - - -<p class="center">END OF THE ACT</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[95]</a></span> -<h2 class="nobreak">THE TORCH-BEARERS—ACT II.</h2></div> - - -<p>NOTE:</p> - -<p>The setting for this act consists simply of three -wings set in the middle of the stage about four feet -from the footlights, and parallel to the footlights, the -wing in the middle, a plain one, and the one on -either side of it, a door-wing. These doors open toward -the footlights, and the one on the right is hinged -to the right, and the one on the left, to the left. -From these door-wings, regular plain wings oblique -off to the back wall; and the whole thing is lashed -and stage-screwed after the fashion of regulation stage-setting. -As the doors in the back flat open, there -can be had a glimpse of footlights, and just beyond -them, a neutral drop, in grayish black, to represent -an auditorium. Between the back flat and the stage -footlights, (as distinguished from the regular footlights) -the miniature stage is set to represent the interior -of a doctor’s waiting-room. Through the door -at the right can be seen a desk and revolving chair, -and a couple of plain chairs against the wall; and -through the left door, a table, littered with magazines, -a cabinet, a revolving bookcase and two more chairs. -There is a bright rug on the floor. Between the -back flat and the regular footlights, over toward the -left, there is a stage-screw sticking right up out of -the floor; and between the two doors there is a plain -chair with its back against the flat. Over the door<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[96]</a></span> -on the right, there is a row of six electric bulbs with -a cord and button depending from it; and further -right, half-way back, there is a wood-wing, set as -though it were the exterior backing for a window in -the miniature set. Over at the left, away back, -fastened about head-high against the back wall, there -is a small switchboard-arrangement. Just below this -there is an old chair, without a back, with a newspaper -lying upon it.</p> - - -<p class="ph2">THE TORCH-BEARERS—ACT II.</p> - -<p><i>A waltz is being played somewhere off at the right. -Florence and Mrs. Ritter are standing in the middle -of the stage, facing the flats, talking. Florence is -wearing a fawn-colored, one-piece coat-dress, buttoned -high at the throat, military fashion, and a toque made -of wine-colored velvet leaves. She wears fawn-colored -slippers and stockings, and carries a fitch muff. -Mrs. Ritter is wearing a very rich-looking coat-suit -in blue serge, trimmed at the collar and cuffs -with white monkey-fur. Her hat is dark-blue felt, -quite large, with a bird of paradise set at a decidedly -rakish tilt. Her slippers and stockings are black, -and she carries an umbrella. Over at the extreme -left, and forward, Mrs. Fell is hearing Mr. Twiller -read his lines from the manuscript. Mrs. Fell is gowned -in a brilliant creation of silver-cloth trimmed with</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[97]</a></span> -<i>sea-green satin. There are numerous strings of crystal -beads hanging in the front from the waist to the -bottom of the skirt, and she has a spreading poinsetta -in scarlet velvet fastened at her waist. There is a -long, fish-tail train to the gown, lined with the green -satin, and she has a heavy rope of pearls and sea-green -beads around her neck, from which her lorgnon -depends. There are diamonds in her hair, diamonds -galore upon her arms and hands, and she’s wearing -her diamond dog-collar. Her slippers and stockings -are of pale green. Mr. Twiller has on a double-breasted -blue-serge suit, a black derby, black shoes and -fawn-colored spats, and a perfectly villainous-looking -black mustache, absurdly large, and obviously artificial. -He stands leaning upon a cane, reciting his lines -to Mrs. Fell. Mr. Spindler, in a dinner-suit, is trying -desperately to unfasten the stage-screw from the -floor at the left, while Mr. Hossefrosse, wearing a -light business-suit, a light, soft hat, tan shoes and spats, -and carrying a cane and gloves, is pacing back and -forth between the left door and the extreme left, reciting -his lines to himself. He is atrociously made up, -with the carmine smeared heavily on his cheek-bones. -The stage manager, in a tan jumper and army shirt, -dirty white running-pumps, a battered old cap adorned -with many tobacco-tags, and carrying a hammer, wanders -on from the right and crosses the stage, passing -below Florence and Mrs. Ritter, who turn and look -at him curiously, and continues on up at the left to</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[98]</a></span> -<i>the switch-board, where he picks up the newspaper from -the broken chair, and, after lighting his pipe, sits down -to read. He is apparently disgusted with the world -and utterly oblivious of his surroundings. The waltz-music -stops, and Mr. Hossefrosse comes to a halt in -his pacing, right outside the left door. It is instantly -flung open, knocking him toward the left, and disarranging -his hat, and Mrs. Pampinelli sweeps out—in -a princess-gown of ruby-colored velvet, with a long -train, and heavily trimmed about the upper part of -the bodice with ornaments of ruby-colored beads. Her -shoulders and arms are bare, and she has a small string -of rubies about her throat;—a bracelet and several -rings of rubies; as well as a high Spanish comb studded -with rubies. Her slippers are of black velvet. -Mrs. Ritter gives a little cry as Mr. Hossefrosse is -struck by the door.</i></p> - - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Holding the door ajar</i>] Oh, -did I hit you, Mr. Hossefrosse! I’m so sorry.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Settling his hat</i>] That’s all right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To the ladies</i>] The setting -looks splendid, girls! [<i>Crossing quickly below Hossefrosse -towards the left</i>] Will you come here for a moment, -Mr. Spindler?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning away to the right</i>] I don’t -want to see it till I go on.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>As Hossefrosse comes towards her</i>] -You’d better keep away from that door, Mr. Hossefrosse.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[99]</a></span> -[<i>She and Mrs. Ritter laugh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Yes, I think I had.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Up at the left, addressing the -stage manager</i>] Are you ready, Mr. Stage Manager? -[<i>He continues to read.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Brushing his clothes</i>] I don’t think -a whisk-broom’d be out of place on this stage, either.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Spindler, who is -still occupied with the stage-screw</i>] Mr. Spindler, will -you come here, please? [<i>Turning back to the stage -manager</i>] Mr. Stage Manager! [<i>Spindler goes towards -her, and Hossefrosse goes through the left door.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> [<i>Looking up from his paper, very -peevishly</i>] Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Are you all ready?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager</span> and <span class="smcap">Twiller</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> Yes, sure, I’m all ready. [<i>He -resumes his newspaper.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Turning sharply to Spindler, who has -stopped on his way to Mrs. Pampinelli to call Mrs. -Fell’s attention to the stage-screw, and to warn her -to be careful of it</i>] Oh, go away! Can’t you see we’re -busy.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Stepping briskly to her side</i>] Yes, mam?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Come here, please. [<i>Turning -to the stage manager</i>] Mr. Stage Manager—[<i>He looks</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[100]</a></span> -<i>up.</i>] This young man will give you the cue for the -curtain, in case I am not here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> All right. [<i>He resumes his -newspaper.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning and coming forward -again, holding her skirt up off the floor</i>] You stand -right here, Mr. Spindler, and I’ll give you the signal -when I’m ready.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> All right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Hurrying towards the left door</i>] -Now, is everybody all right?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I think so.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How are <i>you</i>, Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Giggling</i>] All right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Where’s Mr. Hossefrosse? -[<i>She glances frantically about.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> He’s just stepped on the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> He was here a minute ago.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Hossefrosse, where are you! -[<i>She opens the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Calling</i>] Mr. Hossefrosse! [<i>He -opens the right door and comes out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Sitting at the desk over at the right, in -the miniature set beyond the flats, to Mrs. Pampinelli, -as she comes through the left door</i>] There he is.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[101]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Teddy, as she steps into -the miniature set, through the left door</i>] Where’s Mr. -Hossefrosse?</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>To Hossefrosse</i>] Mrs. Pampinelli’s -looking for you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Calling</i>] Here he is, Mrs. Pampinelli! -[<i>Hossefrosse steps quickly to the left door and -starts in, just as Mrs. Pampinelli comes out through -the right door. Florence steps over to the left door -and catches Hossefrosse by the arm, and pulls him back.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming through the right -door</i>] Where <i>is</i> he?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Pointing to Hossefrosse</i>] There he -is! [<i>She laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Drawing Hossefrosse back</i>] Mrs. Pampinelli -wants you!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] I beg your -pardon.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, Mr. Hossefrosse!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Crossing to the right towards her</i>] -Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Are you all right?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I think so, yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How is your make-up?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> All right, I think.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Indicating the right door</i>] -Would you stand here for a moment under this light -until I see it?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[102]</a></span><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Certainly. [<i>He goes to the right door -and stands with his back against it. The light from -the row of electric bulbs over the door shines down on -his face. Mrs. Pampinelli stands off to his right, surveying -his make-up critically.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Very good.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Not too much red?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, I shouldn’t say so.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Indicating his right cheek</i>] Up here, -I mean.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, I think the contour of your -face requires it. It heightens the expression. [<i>She -starts across towards the left.</i>] It’s very good. [<i>Hossefrosse -comes over and chats with the ladies about his -make-up.</i>] Mr. Twiller! [<i>Twiller turns from Mrs. -Fell.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Yes? [<i>Turning back to Mrs. Fell</i>] Excuse -me, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Certainly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How is your mustache?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Touching it gingerly</i>] All right, I -think.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Is it quite secure?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I think so. [<i>Mrs. Ritter, Florence and -Hossefrosse turn and look.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Stepping back a step from him -and looking at the mustache, with her head tilted a bit -to the left side</i>] You’ve made it a little smaller, haven’t -you?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[103]</a></span><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Touching the left side of his mustache</i>] -I cut it down a bit on this side.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I thought you had.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I was a little conscious of it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well,—I don’t know but that -it’s better for the characterization.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> And how are my eyes? [<i>He turns and -looks out and away off, widening his eyes as though -he were having his picture taken.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>After looking keenly at his eyes -for a second</i>] Very effective. [<i>She turns quickly away -towards the right, and Twiller turns back to his left -to Mrs. Fell.</i>] Now, is everybody ready? [<i>They all -smile and nod.</i>] Your gloves and cane, Mr. Hossefrosse?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Crossing above Florence and Mrs. -Ritter towards Mrs. Pampinelli, extending his cane -and gloves</i>] Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning towards Mrs. Fell</i>] -Places, Nelly! Get ready, Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> I’m all ready. [<i>Mrs. Fell closes the manuscript, -excuses herself to Twiller, and crosses, above -him, towards the right. He goes back at the left and -says something to Spindler, then comes forward again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Calling through the left door</i>] -Are you all right, Teddy?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats, over at the right</i>] All -right. [<i>As Mrs. Fell passes above Florence and Mrs. -Ritter, on her way over to the right, she whispers something</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[104]</a></span> -<i>to them which causes a general laugh:—then she -continues on over to the door at the right and takes -up her official position, as promptress.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning and addressing them -generally</i>] Now, is everybody all right? [<i>They all -nod.</i>] You both all right, girls? [<i>Mrs. Ritter nods.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> All right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning around to the left to -Mr. Spindler, and with an authoritative gesture</i>] All -right, then—take up the curtain!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Waving his hand to the stage manager</i>] -All right, Stage Manager!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> [<i>Getting up, very reluctantly</i>] -Are you ready?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, all ready.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Let her go!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a kind of ceremonious -flourish of the hand</i>] Take up the curtain! [<i>The -stage manager tosses his newspaper onto the chair and -steps out of sight, to the left. There is an anxious -pause. Then Mrs. Pampinelli starts violently and -grabs the knob of the left door.</i>] Oh, wait one moment! -[<i>Spindler rushes back at the left, whistling.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span>, <span class="smcap">Twiller</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, -together, [<i>as Mrs. Pampinelli pulls open the -left door.</i>]</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Wait a minute!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, wait!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[105]</a></span><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Hold it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Grabbing the door and holding it -open</i>] Not yet!</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Calling to the stage manager</i>] Just -a minute!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Going in through the left -door</i>] One moment, please! [<i>She vanishes to the -right, and there is a slight pause, during which the -curtain, which had been raised four feet, can be seen -through the door to descend again. They all exchange -looks of distress and amused annoyance. Then Mrs. -Pampinelli hurries out through the door again.</i>] All -right!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Who has come forward at the left</i>] Is -it all right? [<i>Hossefrosse releases the door and it -closes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, it’s all right. [<i>Spindler -goes towards the back at the left and she follows him -half-way.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> All right, Mr. Stage Manager!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> [<i>Off at the left</i>] Are you ready?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, all ready, Mr. Stage Manager!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Let her go!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning and coming forward -at the left</i>] Take it up! [<i>She stands just to the left -of the left door, peering through the flats. Spindler -is farther back at the left, peering, also; and Mrs. Fell</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[106]</a></span> -<i>is over at the right door, peering. There is a pause. -Mr. Hossefrosse takes up his position outside the left -door, preparatory to making his entrance. He settles -his clothes generally, and clears his throat.</i>] The curtain -is going up, Mr. Hossefrosse, go on.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Is it up?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, yes, go on! [<i>He opens -the door, rather magnificently, and swings in. There -is a ripple of applause, and the door closes after him; -and they all try to find a crevice between the flats that -will afford a glimpse of the stage beyond. The stage -manager appears from the left carrying a regulation -door-slam, which he brings forward and drops, with -a bang, just to the left of the left door. They all -turn and look at him, in resentful astonishment, but -he simply gives them a look of infinite disdain and returns -to his chair at the back to read.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Anybody here, -David?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats, over toward the right</i>] -No, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats, moving towards -the right</i>] No telephones?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Coming through the right door, -without his hat</i>] Nothing at all, eh? [<i>Mrs. Ritter -is standing right in front of the door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Get away from the door, Paula! -[<i>Paula jumps to the left. Mrs. Fell takes advantage</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[107]</a></span> -<i>of the crevice caused by the door being open, to try to -see the audience.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Who can be seen through the open door -standing at the desk</i>] No, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Leaning over and laying his cane -and gloves on the chair between the doors</i>] All right, -sir. [<i>The door begins to swing to behind him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Keep that door open, Mr. -Hossefrosse! [<i>Spindler comes forward at the left to -see what’s the matter. Hossefrosse thrusts his foot back -and kicks the door open.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> And I think that will do very nicely -for this day. [<i>The door begins slowly to swing to -again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> There it goes again, Mr. -Hossefrosse!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> It won’t <i>stay</i> open! [<i>Mrs. Fell looks -around the door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Take hold of that door, Nelly! -[<i>Nelly puts one foot around it, and stands looking -at her manuscript. Spindler goes back at the left and -looks through the wings again, at the stage.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>In a frantic whisper</i>] Telephone!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Telephone, somebody!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Good Lord!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Mr. Spindler, telephone! [<i>Spindler -rushes forward at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Where is he?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> What?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[108]</a></span><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> The telephone-bell!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Where’s your bell?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Pulling the battery-arrangement out of -his pocket</i>] Has the cue been given?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Picking up the telephone on the desk beyond -the flats</i>] Hello?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Ring it! Of course it’s been -given! [<i>He rings the bell, and Hossefrosse steps -through the right door and watches Teddy anxiously.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> I didn’t hear it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Annihilating him with a look, -and starting over towards the right door</i>] Well, why -aren’t you over here when your cue’s given and then -you would hear it! [<i>Spindler trails over after her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Over his shoulder, to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning sharply back towards -the left, and directly to Spindler, who is right behind -her</i>] Shush! [<i>She passes below him and continues -towards the left.</i>] Keep away from that door, they’ll -see you! [<i>In attempting to keep out of the way of the -door, Spindler turns sharply and trips over the screw -of a stage-brace, falling his length across the open door. -Mrs. Ritter gives a little scream, and Mrs. Pampinelli -whirls round and glares at him. He scrambles to his -feet, and Mrs. Ritter giggles and pulls him to the left, -away from the door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Standing in the open door, addressing -Teddy</i>] Mrs. A.? [<i>Teddy nods, and Hossefrosse</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[109]</a></span> -<i>pretends to pick up an imaginary telephone from -a desk just to the left of the right door.</i>] Yes? All -right. [<i>He pretends to hang up and set the telephone -down on the desk again.</i>] You can clear out of here -now, David, any time you like,—Mrs. Arlington is on -her way up.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Rising, and settling the various papers on -the desk</i>] All right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Helping Mr. Spindler to brush off -his clothes</i>] Did you hurt yourself, Mr. Spindler? -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli tries to attract Spindler’s attention -to the door-slam.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> No. [<i>He hurries over to the door-slam -at the left and picks it up.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> I’ll let you off early Monday. [<i>Florence -stands anxiously outside the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Oh, that’s all right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> And don’t forget to leave that list -with the Robinson people on your way down Monday.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No, sir, I won’t; I have it right here in me -pocket. [<i>Florence puts her lips against the left door -and coughs hard. Then she shuffles her feet; so does -Spindler. Hossefrosse steps through the right door and -looks over toward the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Addressing Teddy, in a subdued -tone</i>] Is that someone coming?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Looking toward the left door</i>] I think so. -[<i>There is a slight pause, then Mrs. Pampinelli makes -a decisive movement to Spindler and he brings the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[110]</a></span> -<i>door-slam down with a thunderous bang. Mrs. Pampinelli -starts violently.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That’s too loud, Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> There’s too much wood in it! [<i>He -starts across to the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Stepping down to Teddy’s desk and -picking up his hat</i>] That can’t be Mrs. Arlington -already. I won’t see anyone else. [<i>He starts back towards -the door.</i>] Tell them I’ve gone; and don’t let -anybody wait. [<i>He takes hold of the door as he steps -through.</i>] Say you’re just locking up the office. [<i>He -comes through the door and tries to close it, but Nelly’s -foot is still around it, and she is lost in the manuscript. -He pulls at the door, but she is oblivious.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Nelly! [<i>Spindler gives a little -whistle to attract her attention.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Let go of the door, Nelly!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Jumping out of the way, to the right</i>] -Oh, I beg your pardon! [<i>Hossefrosse scowls at her -and closes the door. Spindler jumps to the door and -turns a key, which he has in his hand, in the lock, then -touches the button at the end of the cord, extinguishing -the row of lights over the door, then rushes back towards -the left door. Mrs. Ritter is right in his way -as he rushes back, and they dodge each other twice -before Mr. Spindler can get past. When he reaches -the left door, he raps violently, Mrs. Pampinelli directing -his activities with little nervous gestures. There</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[111]</a></span> -<i>is a pause: then the left door is opened by Teddy. -Mrs. Ritter is right in front of it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing to the left of the -door</i>] Get out of the way, Paula! [<i>Mrs. Ritter -jumps out of the way, to the right, then looks back -at Mrs. Pampinelli and giggles, but Mrs. Pampinelli -puts her finger on her lips.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Passing through the left door</i>] Good -evening, son.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Reaching out and closing the door</i>] Good -evening. [<i>There is prolonged applause from beyond -the flats, and everybody, having seen Florence safely -through the door, rushes to his favorite crevice between -the wings, or rip in the scenery, to see how she is being -received by the audience.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Isn’t the Doctor in?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No, mam, he ain’t; he went about six -o’clock.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> That’s unfortunate, I wanted to see -him. [<i>Hossefrosse turns away from the right door, -where he’s been peeking, and mops his brow: then he -turns and puts his hat down on the chair.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Stepping towards him from the left -door</i>] How do you feel?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> All right; but that door and that -telephone got me kind of rattled.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Looking over from the extreme -left of the back flat, where she has been peeking</i>] -Shush, boys! [<i>Hossefrosse turns away and tiptoes towards</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[112]</a></span> -<i>the right, and the others resume their peeking.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning to Hossefrosse, as he passes -below her</i>] What’s the matter, Huxley, did something -go wrong? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli looks over again to see -who’s talking.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Indicating the right door</i>] That -door kind of got me rattled for a minute.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I don’t think the audience noticed it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Shush! [<i>Nelly consults her manuscript, -listening at the same time to the dialogue beyond -the flats, and Mr. Hossefrosse continues to the -extreme right and forward, trying to make the squeak -of his new shoes as inaudible as possible. Mrs. Pampinelli -puts her ear to the flat and listens keenly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Faintly, beyond the flats</i>] Why, he always -asts me to wait whenever he’s expectin’ his wife downtown. -[<i>Spindler suddenly turns from the wing where -he has been peeking, and, breaking into quite a jaunty -little whistle, starts across towards the left; but Mrs. -Pampinelli turns abruptly and glares him into silence. -He clasps his hand over his mouth and apologizes with -an obsequious little gesture.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] I see. And he was -expecting her this evening?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Yes, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Do you know her? [<i>Spindler trips and -almost falls over the stage-screw in the floor at the -left. Twiller, who has been standing down at the extreme</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[113]</a></span> -<i>left, makes an impatient move and goes up towards -the back.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, Mr. Spindler, for Pity’s -sake do keep still for one moment!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Squatting down and attempting to remove -the screw</i>] We’d better get this thing out of -here, before somebody gets hurt.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Now, don’t take that out of -there, Mr. Spindler! You might loosen the scenery.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> This isn’t connected with the scenery.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You don’t know whether it is -or not! Leave it where it is.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Getting up and moving over towards -the right</i>] Somebody’s going to get their neck broken, -the first thing you know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Very well, then, that will be -their misfortune! We’ve simply got to be careful, -that’s all. Get ready, Paula. [<i>Mrs. Ritter giggles -and takes up her position outside the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>As Spindler comes towards her</i>] -What’s the matter, Mr. Spindler?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>In quite a temper, and indicating the -stage-screw over at the left</i>] Why, that thing there is -sticking right up in the middle of the floor, and the -first thing you—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Shush!—[<i>He turns and scowls -at her, and she glares at him. He passes below Mrs. -Fell and over to Hossefrosse, at the extreme right and -forward, where he whispers his grievance.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[114]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> You all right, Paula? [<i>Paula nods -yes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Don’t be nervous, now, Paula. -[<i>Twiller comes forward at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I’m not the least bit, dear, really.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, that’s splendid, dear. -I’ll open the door for you. [<i>She takes hold of the knob -of the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> All right, thank you. [<i>They stand -listening, keenly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Do you mind if I -wait a few minutes, in case he comes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Why, I was just going -home.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Oh, were you? [<i>Twiller lifts his hat -and gives it a little wave at Mrs. Ritter, and she waves -her hand back at him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Yes, mam; and I have to lock up the office -before I go.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Suddenly</i>] There it is now, -dear. [<i>She opens the door, and Mrs. Ritter steps back -a bit, in order to make a more effective entrance.</i>] -Good luck, darling.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to her</i>] Thank you, dear. -[<i>She steps through the door, tripping awkwardly over -the door-strip. Mrs. Pampinelli makes a gesture of extreme -annoyance. There is an outburst of applause; -then Mrs. Pampinelli closes the door, and they all step -to the flats and peek through, Mrs. Pampinelli at the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[115]</a></span> -<i>left door, Mrs. Fell at the right, Mr. Spindler between -them, and Hossefrosse and Twiller about half-way -back at the right and left, respectively. There is a -pause; and then Mrs. Ritter can be heard beyond the -flats.</i>] Hello, kid!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Hello, Mrs. Arlington.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Is my sweetie in?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No, mam, he ain’t.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>With an unnatural inflection</i>] -What!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Calling over in a whisper to Mrs. -Pampinelli</i>] Betty! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli doesn’t hear her, -so she tiptoes over towards her.</i>] Betty!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Did Paula trip?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming away from the flat, -and moving down to Mrs. Fell</i>] Yes. [<i>Mrs. Fell -gives an annoyed shake of her head.</i>] But I don’t see -how anyone can get onto <i>that</i> stage <i>without</i> tripping.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I don’t either.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> It seems an utter impossibility -to me for anyone, especially a woman, to get through -those doors without catching her heel or her skirt or -something. [<i>Spindler crosses to the left, back of the -ladies, and speaks to Twiller.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Returning to the right door</i>] It’s -dreadful!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to her left and going</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[116]</a></span> -<i>back again to the left door</i>] I don’t see the necessity -of it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Opening her manuscript</i>] I don’t -either.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Listening keenly</i>] I’m afraid -they’re not hearing Paula at all.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I say, I’m afraid Paula isn’t -loud enough.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Well, why don’t you speak to her, -Betty, she’s sitting right here. [<i>She indicates the point -right inside the right door, and Mrs. Pampinelli, picking -up her skirt, hurries over. Mrs. Fell steps out of -the way, to the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Putting her lips to the joining -of the door-wing and the side wing</i>] Speak a little -louder, Paula! I’m afraid they’re not hearing you!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Can she hear you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> A little louder, dear! [<i>The -right door is thrust open by Teddy.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>In a frantic whisper</i>] There’s no pen and -ink on the desk! [<i>Spindler rushes over from the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> What? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli, Mrs. Fell -and Mr. Hossefrosse rush round to him from the -right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No pen and ink!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What is it, Teddy?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> No pen and ink on the desk!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[117]</a></span><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> No pen and ink!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> My God!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Tell her to use a lead-pencil!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span>—[<i>To Mrs. Fell</i>] There’s none on there!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Give him a lead-pencil, Mr. -Spindler!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Whirling and springing towards the -left</i>] Haven’t got one! [<i>Teddy, Mrs. Pampinelli and -Mrs. Fell rush after him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Twiller!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, dear, dear!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Rushing towards them from the left</i>] -What’s the matter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler</span> and <span class="smcap">Teddy</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Got a lead-pencil?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Give him a lead-pencil, Ralph!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Dropping his cane</i>] No! [<i>They fling -him out of the way, to the left, and rush on back to -the stage manager.</i>] What are you trying to do, knock -me off my feet!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Haven’t you got one, Mr. -Twiller?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>To the stage manager</i>] Got a lead-pencil, -old man?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>At Mrs. Pampinelli’s heels</i>] There’s -one in my bag somewhere!</p> - -</blockquote> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[118]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Spindler</span> and <span class="smcap">Teddy</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Fell</i>] See -what they’re doing out there, Nelly!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>To the stage manager</i>] Or a fountain-pen!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>To the stage manager</i>] They need it on the -stage!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Stage Manager</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning and rushing back towards the -right door</i>] Certainly, darling!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> [<i>Feeling in his shirt-pockets</i>] -Well, now, wait a minute, wait a minute!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning with a despairing gesture, after -having opened the right door and looked in</i>] My -dear, they’re not doing a thing, they’re just sitting -there!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to the left</i>] Hurry, -boys! [<i>Turning to the right</i>] Tell them to say something, -Nelly! Anything at all! Something about the -weather! [<i>Nelly runs to the extreme right end of the -flat. Teddy and Spindler come rushing forward at -the left.</i>] Did you get it, Teddy?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Yes!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Yes, he’s got it!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Indicating the left door</i>] Go -on here, Teddy! [<i>He grabs the knob of the door, -but it won’t open.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[119]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Calling through the flats</i>] Say something, -Paula!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You should never leave the -stage during a scene, Teddy!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Wrestling with the door</i>] Damn these -doors!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Calling through the flats</i>] Something -about the weather!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Take hold of this, Mr. Spindler! -[<i>He grabs the knob of the door and Teddy runs -across to the right door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> I’ll go on here!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>As Teddy goes through the right door</i>] -If you can’t use one door, use the other! [<i>The door -closes after him; and Mrs. Pampinelli turns and looks -upon Spindler, who is still trying to get the left door -open.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You know, this is <i>all your -fault</i>, Mr. Spindler. [<i>He doesn’t look up.</i>] You -said you’d attend to all those properties!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What’s the matter with the door, -Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Spindler</i>] Never mind it -now. [<i>She moves towards the center of the stage.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> We’d better get it open before somebody -has to use it again.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Go away from it, I tell you! -[<i>He walks away towards the left, sulking.</i>] It will<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[120]</a></span> -probably open all right from the other side. [<i>She -comes forward slowly, touching her hair and relaxing -generally, then, suddenly, stands stock-still, and listens, -wide-eyed. She looks quickly at Mrs. Fell, who is carefully -settling her necklace, at the right door.</i>] What’s -wrong out there, Nelly? [<i>Nelly turns and looks -through the flats, then turns quickly to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I think he’s up!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Frozen to the spot</i>] Who? -[<i>Nelly looks again, and then back to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> All of them!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Picking up her skirt and rushing -towards the right door</i>] Let me see! [<i>Nelly -jumps out of the way, to the right, and Twiller and -Spindler rush to the left door and peek through. Mrs. -Pampinelli peeks through, and then speaks through the -flats.</i>] What’s the matter, Teddy? Go over and get -your hat and coat! [<i>Turning frantically to Mrs. Fell</i>] -He’s up in his lines! What is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>In a panic</i>] Up in his lines!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Speaking through the flats</i>] Go -over and get your hat and coat, Teddy! Don’t stand -there like a jack!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Handing the manuscript to Hossefrosse, -who is at her right</i>] Oh, find that for me, will -you, Huxley! [<i>He takes the manuscript from her and</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[121]</a></span> -<i>turns it over furiously, while Nelly opens her lorgnon.</i>] -About page eleven, I think it is! [<i>She assists him in -finding the place.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What was the last line, Nelly? -This is dreadful!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Now, wait a moment, darling! Don’t -get me nervous, or I’ll <i>never</i> be able to find it! [<i>Twiller -and Spindler are in a panic of suspense over at the -left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Here’s page eleven.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Is that eleven? Well, now, here it is, -right here— Why, a— I’ll get you an envelope!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What’s the next?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> The next is—a—why a—I’ve got to -go now—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It takes me nearly an hour to get -home!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Calling through the flats</i>] I’ve -got to go now!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] I’ve got to go now!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Calling through the flats</i>] It -takes me nearly an hour to get home.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> It takes me an hour to get home!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Are they all right?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming away from the flats</i>] -Yes, they’re all right now. But you’d better stand<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[122]</a></span> -right here, I’m afraid of Paula. [<i>She moves towards -the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Coming towards her</i>] You know, I -could have <i>sworn</i> I put a pen and ink on that desk!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Imperiously</i>] Please, Mr. -Spindler, don’t explain anything! I am interested in -results. [<i>She turns and moves back again towards the -right, and Spindler goes over to the left. Just as he -passes beyond the left door, the entire lock and knob -fall to the floor. He turns nervously, only to find -Mrs. Pampinelli, who has turned quite as nervously, -looking at him dangerously.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> I didn’t <i>touch</i> it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Will you go away, before you -ruin the entire performance! [<i>He snaps around and -goes over to the left and up towards the back.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Opening the left door and swaying -through</i>] Good night. [<i>He is dressed in a brown -sack-suit and wears tan shoes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Good night, son.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Good night, kid.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Going towards him</i>] You -should <i>never</i> walk off the stage, Teddy, in the middle -of a scene! [<i>He closes the door behind him, and, -pressing his hand to his brow, starts towards the left.</i>] -Do something, no matter what it is! [<i>He falls backward -in a full-length faint. She catches him.</i>] Oh, -dear child! Mr. Spindler! Come here, Mr. Twiller, -Teddy’s fainted! [<i>Twiller, who has been standing</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[123]</a></span> -<i>over at the left, and forward, rushes towards her; and -Mrs. Fell, followed by Hossefrosse, comes rushing -from the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>In a panic</i>] What’s the matter, Betty!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Take Teddy over to the door, -Mr. Twiller, he’s fainted!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Dropping his cane, in his excitement</i>] -I <i>can’t</i> take him now, I’ve got a cue coming right -here in a minute! [<i>Spindler comes rushing down from -the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Here, Mr. Spindler, take -Teddy over to the door, where he’ll get some air! -He’s sick. Look at the color of him. [<i>She hands him -to Spindler, who half carries him up at the left; and -she and Twiller follow on behind them.</i>] Hold on to -him, now, Mr. Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning back towards the right door, -and addressing Hossefrosse, who has returned to his -former position down at the right</i>] I always said he -wasn’t strong enough for that part! [<i>She just gets -past the right door when it is frantically opened and -Mrs. Ritter thrusts her head out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Breathlessly</i>] Mr. Twiller! [<i>The -door closes again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Running towards the left</i>] Mr. -Twiller! They’re waiting for you!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Rushing forward at the left</i>] -What is it?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[124]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>In a perfect frenzy</i>] They’re waiting -for Mr. Twiller!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Twiller! [<i>He snatches -up his cane from the floor, but the hook of it catches -in the stage-brace, and he has considerable yanking to -do to get it loose. Mrs. Fell raps on the left door.</i>] -Go on, Mr. Twiller, for Heaven’s sake! the stage is -waiting! [<i>She pulls the door open for him. He -straightens his hat and then raps on the wing beside -the door.</i>] Oh, go on! never mind rapping! that’s been -done! [<i>He steps through the door and she slams it -after him, catching his left arm and hand. The cane -is in his left hand, and it falls at Mrs. Pampinelli’s -feet. She pulls the door open again to release his arm; -then gives the door a definite slam. A burst of applause -greets Twiller’s entrance. Mrs. Pampinelli is in a perfect -wrath. She sweeps across towards the right, and -back again all the way across to the left; then turns -and starts back towards the right. As she passes the -left door she sees Twiller’s cane, and, realizing in a -flash that he will have need of it in his scene, she picks -it up, opens the left door slightly, and flings it in onto -the stage. Then she continues on towards the right, -turns and crosses back again to the left, holding up her -skirt and bristling with temper.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Back at the right door, speaking to -Hossefrosse, down at the right</i>] How are my eyes? -Instead of paying attention to his part!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming across to the right</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[125]</a></span> -People rehearsing their cues a thousand times, and then -don’t know them when they hear them! It’s positively -disgusting! [<i>She turns and goes back again to the left, -turns, and starts back to the right. Hossefrosse tiptoes -towards her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What happened to Teddy, did he -get sick out there?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, just a little reaction. -[<i>Hossefrosse nods comprehendingly.</i>] He gives too -much to the scene. He doesn’t understand emotional -conservation yet. [<i>Hossefrosse shakes his head knowingly -and returns to the right, and Mrs. Pampinelli -steps to the left door and listens.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Just audibly, beyond the flats</i>] She’s -waiting for my very unpunctual husband. In fact, -we are both waiting for him, to be precise. But I’ve -just been telling her I’m afraid we may as well give -it up, for he’s never kept an appointment in his life. -I’m sorry he isn’t here, if you wanted to see him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] I don’t know whether -I wanted to see him or not; it depends.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I don’t understand you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I don’t fully understand myself! [<i>There -is a very general laugh from beyond the flats. Mrs. -Pampinelli looks anxiously at Nelly, and Nelly looks -up at her from the manuscript.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What was <i>that</i>?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Not having caught what she said</i>] -What?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[126]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What was that the audience -was laughing at? [<i>Mrs. Fell peeks through at the -door where she is standing, then turns desperately to -Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Half of Mr. Twiller’s mustache fell -off! [<i>She looks through the peek again. Mrs. Pampinelli -puts her hand against her brow and leans upon -the stage-brace, the picture of tragedy. Mrs. Fell turns -to her again.</i>] I don’t think the audience noticed it, he -stuck it right on again!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That doesn’t matter, there is -absolutely no excuse for it! He’s been here since four -o’clock this afternoon! [<i>She crosses towards the left -and back again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] What sort of a rumor -was it, Mr. Rush, if I may ask?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] The usual kind. -[<i>There’s another laugh from beyond the flats, and -Mrs. Pampinelli stands petrified, just below the left -door. Mrs. Fell turns quickly and peeks, then turns -to Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Despairingly</i>] It fell off again! [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli raises her fists and shakes them.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, why on earth hasn’t he -brains enough to leave it off!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> He has his hat on, too! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -steps to the left door and speaks through it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Leave your mustache <i>off</i>, Mr.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[127]</a></span> -Twiller! Leave it <i>off</i>!—And take off your <i>hat</i>, you’re -inside. [<i>Hossefrosse tiptoes over from the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What’s the matter, did his mustache -fall off?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, twice; and he keeps sticking -it on again. [<i>He shakes his head regretfully and -tiptoes back to the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] It’s perfectly ridiculous!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Too bad my husband -isn’t here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Yes, it is; I had counted -upon seeing him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I’m sure he’d be able to explain.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Well, I hope he would!—the thing is -damned annoying! [<i>Mrs. Ritter gives an unearthly -laugh, which is supposed to express derision. Mrs. -Fell looks up from her manuscript, and Mrs. Pampinelli -smiles and nods approvingly at her.</i>] Even if <i>you -don’t</i> appreciate it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Wonderful. [<i>She turns and smiles -and nods at Hossefrosse; then they all listen again. -The stage manager, who has arisen from his chair at -the sound of Mrs. Ritter’s disdainful laughter, comes -forward at the left, with his pipe in one hand and his -newspaper in the other. He has a puzzled, inquiring -expression, and looks from one to the other quizzically; -but Mrs. Pampinelli has her back to him, Mrs. Fell -is looking at her manuscript, and Mr. Hossefrosse’s</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[128]</a></span> -<i>face is, as usual, utterly expressionless, so he steps to -the juncture of the back flats with the side wings and -peeks through, curiously. Then he returns to his chair -up at the left, shaking his head from side to side.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] I don’t know what -it is, yet!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] You know very well -what it is!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> You haven’t told us.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> You’re here, aren’t you!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Well, that’s it, exactly! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -smiles approvingly, and moves towards the -right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Calling Hossefrosse, who is engaged -in studying his lines from a paper, over at the -right</i>] Mr. Hossefrosse.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning to him</i>] Huxley! [<i>He looks -up, and tiptoes towards Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How is this hall to speak in?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Why, I shouldn’t say it was good.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I thought not.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> It’s too big for the speaking voice.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a gesture</i>] You have to -<i>project</i> the tone, do you not?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Oh, yes, absolutely.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Taking a step towards the back -flat, and listening</i>] I’m afraid they’re not hearing -Paula at all.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[129]</a></span><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Putting his fingers to his throat</i>] I’m -using my upper register almost entirely.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Glancing at him</i>] You’re very -fortunate to know how to do it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Did it sound all right from back -here?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, splendid, yes, Mr. Hossefrosse!—your -voice is beautiful. [<i>He raises his hand -deprecatingly.</i>] Really,—I was just saying to Mrs. -Fell, I’m so sorry there isn’t another act, that you -might sing a solo between them. [<i>He beams and deprecates -again, profusely, and turns to the right. Spindler -comes down at the left and towards Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>] -Really! Splendid. [<i>She sees Spindler.</i>] Where’s -Teddy?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> He’s gone over to the drug store.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> With his make-up on?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> He said he wanted to get some aromatic -spirits of ammonia.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You have a cue right here soon, -haven’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Taking the telephone-arrangement from -his pocket, and crossing towards the right door</i>] Where -are they?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Suddenly looking up from her manuscript</i>] -Telephone, Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> There it is now, ring it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Shaking it desperately</i>] It won’t ring! -[<i>Mrs. Fell turns to Hossefrosse in desperation.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[130]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, -together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Shake it harder, it rang before!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What’s the matter with the fool thing!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Hit it against something, Mr. Spindler!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> There’s something the matter with the -battery!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Audibly, from beyond the flats</i>] Hello!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Relaxing</i>] Let it go,—it’s too -late now. [<i>Spindler continues to tinker with it.</i>] -You’ve missed every other cue, [<i>She moves towards -the left.</i>] you may as well be consistent for the rest of -the evening.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Following her</i>] Well, good night! I -can’t help it if the electricity won’t work, can I?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning upon him furiously</i>] -You should have attended to it beforehand and then it -<i>would</i> work! [<i>Mrs. Fell waves her hand at them, to -be quiet.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Well, My God! I can’t be in a half-a-dozen -places at the same time!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Shush! [<i>Hossefrosse tiptoes up to her -and deplores the noise that Mrs. Pampinelli and Spindler -are making.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No one is asking you to be in -half-a-dozen places at the same time! You’ve simply -been asked to attend to your cues; and you’ve missed -every one you’ve had!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[131]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together. Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> You told me to take care of Teddy, -didn’t you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I told you to take him to the -door! I <i>didn’t</i> say to take him all the way to the drug -store!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Did you want me to let the man wander -off somewhere by himself, and maybe die!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Waving her manuscript at them</i>] -Shus—sh!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Just for the sake of not missing a cue!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With bitter amusement</i>] There -is very little danger of his dying! And even if he did -die, your duty is here! [<i>She points to the floor with -an imperative gesture. The right door is quietly pushed -open, and Twiller, with one-half of his mustache gone, -pokes his head out.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Shush! [<i>He glances from one side to the -other, withdraws his head, and quietly closes the door. -Spindler crosses below Mrs. Pampinelli, to the left, -then turns and looks at her angrily.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning to Hossefrosse</i>] What did I -tell you! Making more noise out here than they are -out there!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Still holding her gesture, but following -Spindler with her eyes</i>] Performances are never -interrupted simply because one of the artists happens -to die! If you were a professional you’d know that;<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[132]</a></span> -but you’re not! [<i>She turns away from him, towards -the right, and, simultaneously, the left door is opened, -almost striking her. She raises her arm to protect herself. -Mrs. Ritter is standing in the doorway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Speaking to Twiller, who is still beyond -the flats</i>] Look and see. [<i>The telephone-arrangement -in Spindler’s hands suddenly rings wildly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to him frantically</i>] -Oh, stop that thing! [<i>Mrs. Ritter glances furtively -over her left shoulder at Mrs. Pampinelli. Mrs. Fell -comes rushing over, motioning to Spindler to stop the -bell.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Struggling with the bell</i>] I can’t stop it! -[<i>Mrs. Ritter hastily steps back through the door and -pulls it to after her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, then, take it outside, -where they can’t hear it! [<i>Spindler scrambles towards -the back and out of sight at the left. Mrs. Pampinelli -starts back towards the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What’s the matter with that Spindler -man, anyway!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I don’t know what’s the matter -with him! I’ve given up thinking about him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> He acts to me like a person that -wouldn’t be in his right mind! [<i>She goes back towards -the right door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing in the middle of the -stage</i>] He’s simply not a professional, that’s all. [<i>The -left door opens again and Mrs. Ritter is standing in it.</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[133]</a></span> -<i>Mrs. Pampinelli turns suddenly and looks at her. Mrs. -Ritter repeats her unearthly laugh, which again arouses -the curiosity of the stage manager, to the extent that -he rises and comes forward again at the left to get a -look at her. Then he returns to his chair, taking the -door-slam with him, and standing it against the wing.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Addressing Twiller, beyond the -flats</i>] What about the gentlemen?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Jealous husbands, -chiefly, aren’t they? [<i>Twiller comes out through the -left door, past Mrs. Ritter.</i>] Didn’t you want to leave -a message for the Doctor, Mr. Rush? [<i>Twiller turns -right round and goes back to the door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Who, me?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> If you wish.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Having some difficulty seeing Florence -over Twiller’s right shoulder</i>] He might leave -an apology.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Very much annoyed, and stepping -close to the flat, just to the right of the door</i>] -Get out of the doorway, Mr. Twiller!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Perhaps we haven’t -convinced him of his mistake.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Trying desperately to attract -Twiller’s attention, and becoming more emphatic</i>] Get -out of the doorway, Mr. Twiller, you’re covering -Paula up!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Trying to talk to Florence over</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[134]</a></span> -<i>Twiller’s shoulder</i>] Well, he’ll apologize to me, -whether we’ve convinced him or not. [<i>Mrs. Fell and -Hossefrosse come over to see if they can be of any assistance.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Twiller</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Becoming desperate</i>] Paula! -[<i>Paula gives her a nervous glance.</i>] Will one of you go -farther in! Mr. Twiller!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Addressing Florence</i>] Have you convinced -yourselves? [<i>He gives Mrs. Pampinelli an irritated -look over his left shoulder.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> That there has been a mistake?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Go farther in, one of you! -[<i>Twiller gives her another look, then speaks to Florence.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Yes! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli can contain herself -no longer, so, picking up her skirt, and holding her -hand against the left side of her head, she darts across -the open door, to the left, and speaks to them around -the edge of the door. Mrs. Fell, taking advantage of -the circumstance of Mrs. Pampinelli’s crossing, tiptoes -up to Twiller and strikes him on the left arm, -quite viciously, with the rolled manuscript. As a polite -remonstrance, he shakes his left hand and foot at -her. But, she is not dismayed, and repeats the attack, -even more viciously. Then he turns and glares at her, -and she turns away towards the right, desperately.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> A great mistake.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[135]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Disappointed? Because, you know, -we can <i>invent</i> a scandal, if you insist.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, what a man! What a man!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I’m afraid <i>my</i> presence here would be -a bit incongruous, even for that.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Go farther in, Mr. Twiller, -don’t both of you stand wedged in the doorway that -way, it looks dreadful!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Raising his right arm and resting his -hand against the jamb of the door, completely cutting -off Mrs. Ritter’s view of Florence</i>] That’s the rub. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter stands on her tiptoes to try and see over -his arm, but being unsuccessful in this effort, stoops -a bit, and tries to look under his arm.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Take your arm down, Mr. -Twiller! [<i>Mrs. Ritter reaches up and quietly but -firmly draws Twiller’s arm down. Mrs. Pampinelli -turns away to the left, disgusted.</i>] My God! I never -gave any such direction as that!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Be at ease, Mr. Rush; if you were not -mistaken I should have known it,—and so should you; -I’m not a tragic woman. Did you want to leave any -message for the Doctor, Mrs. Rush?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>At Twiller’s right</i>] Yes,—[<i>Twiller -turns his head sharply and looks right into her -eyes. She steps around back of him and speaks to Florence -over his left shoulder.</i>] I wish you’d say that my -husband called—[<i>Twiller turns and looks into her</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[136]</a></span> -<i>eyes again, and she steps around back of him again, to -his right.</i>] for my bill. [<i>She reaches out and starts to -draw the door to. Twiller, very ill at ease, and awkwardly -looking from side to side, not knowing just how -to get out gracefully, makes a full turn round to his -right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Raising his hat to Florence</i>] Good evening, -Mrs. Arlington. [<i>Mrs. Ritter closes the door, -causing him to drop his cane; but he’s too excited to -notice it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Standing at the right door, extending -his hand</i>] Great, old man!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Dropping his gloves, as he shakes hands</i>] -Thanks. [<i>He continues to the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>As he passes below her</i>] Splendid, -Ralph! What happened to your mustache? [<i>She -laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Can you beat that, Nelly! I couldn’t -<i>coax</i> that thing off before I went on!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Holding the knob of the right door</i>] -Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I don’t think the audience noticed it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Turning to them</i>] Shush! [<i>Twiller -goes down to the right, and Mrs. Fell returns to her -manuscript. The left door is flung open. They all -watch eagerly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Inside the left door</i>] If you will, -please?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Certainly.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[137]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Thanks.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Don’t mention it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Trying to appear very bold</i>] Good -bye.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Good bye. [<i>Mrs. Ritter gives another -famous laugh, sways through the door, tripping over -the door-strip, closes the door, looks at Mrs. Pampinelli, -who is standing at the left, and bursts out laughing. -There is prolonged applause from beyond the -flats.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Splendid, Paula!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Listening intently for his cue, from -beyond the flats</i>] Shush-shush! [<i>Mrs. Ritter looks -at him, still laughing foolishly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Waving at Paula</i>] Lovely, dear!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] I -forgot my umbrella.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Where is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I left it on the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That doesn’t matter. [<i>Hossefrosse -tries to silence them by dint of impatient gesturing -with his right hand.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, Betty, I think I saw Clara Sheppard -out there!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Not really?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>From beyond the flats</i>] You can come -out now, Clyde, they’ve gone. [<i>Hossefrosse yanks the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[138]</a></span> -<i>right door open, causing the wood-wing at the right -to topple and fall forward.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Leaping to catch it, before it hits Mrs. -Fell</i>] Hold it! [<i>Mrs. Fell hunches her arms and -shoulders and screams.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Rushing over from the left</i>] -What is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Struggling to set the wing up in place -again</i>] This thing nearly fell! Just got it in time! -[<i>Mrs. Fell moves out of the way, over to the left, and -Mrs. Pampinelli tries to assist Twiller.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Is it all right now?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Brushing his hands and clothes, and -coming forward at the right</i>] Yes, it’s all right now. -Just got it in time.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Rushing up to Mrs. Ritter, who is -coming towards her from the left, and shaking her by -the arms</i>] Oh, you were marvelous, darling! [<i>Mrs. -Ritter giggles foolishly.</i>] I could just hug you!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I forgot my umbrella.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Wonderful performance! [<i>She steps -to the right door and opens her manuscript. Mrs. -Ritter moves a little to the right and stands looking -at the wood-wing.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning from a more precise -adjustment of the wood-wing</i>] Oh, Mr. Twiller!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Yes?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How did you and Paula get<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[139]</a></span> -wedged in that door that way, over there a moment -ago?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>On Mrs. Pampinelli’s right</i>] Oh, I’m -awfully sorry about that! I got a little twisted on— -[<i>Mrs. Ritter comes to Mrs. Pampinelli’s left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Ritter</i>] I -was just asking Mr. Twiller about that business in the -door.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span> and <span class="smcap">Twiller</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Of course, it really didn’t -matter very much.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, my dear, wasn’t that just too -dreadful! But I didn’t know what to do! I knew -there was something wrong, but I didn’t know what -it was!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> It was <i>my</i> fault. I got a little twisted -there in my business-cues. I got up to the door a -couple of speeches too soon.</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I don’t think the audience noticed -it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Frantically searching in the manuscript</i>] -Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Don’t you think they did, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Shush! [<i>They all turn and look at -her. Mrs. Pampinelli steps towards her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Is somebody up? [<i>Nelly -simply silences her with a gesture, and opens the door -slightly.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[140]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Prompting through the door</i>] -You’ve all been listening to a lot of damned, cheap -gossip!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>From beyond the flats</i>] You’ve all -been listening to a lot of damned, cheap gossip!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Which should show -you that people are talking.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Somebody up? [<i>Nelly just -shakes her head and relaxes.</i>] Mr. Hossefrosse?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> The “damned, cheap gossip” line.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Listening keenly</i>] Is he all -right again?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Yes, he’s all right now;—but it’s -funny how that line has sent him up at every performance.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to rejoin Mrs. Ritter -and Twiller</i>] It’s purely mental.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>From beyond the flats, violently</i>] -No! [<i>The stage manager, over at the left, jumps to -his feet, causing the hammer to fall from his pocket. -The door-slam also falls, with a bang. The stage -manager has been dozing, and the thunder of Mr. -Hossefrosse’s outburst has considerably startled him. -He comes forward at the left and looks over at Mrs. -Fell, to inquire the cause of the disturbance.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Motioning to him with her manuscript</i>] -Shush! [<i>He looks about and then goes back -and picks up the hammer and door-slam. As he resumes -his seat he takes another glance around.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[141]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>As Mrs. Pampinelli comes forward -again at the right, between her and Twiller</i>] You -know, I felt like a perfect fool standing there in that -door, but I couldn’t catch what you were saying. -[<i>Twiller laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, dear, I <i>really</i> don’t think -the audience noticed it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I hope they didn’t.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> It must have looked awful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, dear, it didn’t, really; you -both covered it up very nicely.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I <i>tried</i> to cover it up when my mustache -fell off, too;—but I had so many <i>lines</i> right in there. -I held it on as long as I could, but I was afraid the -audience was beginning to notice it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I was so glad you had the presence -of mind not to attempt to stick it on again when -it fell off the <i>second</i> time.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I was afraid to take the time. I had -a cue right there; so when it fell off the second time, -I just—let it lie there. [<i>He makes a casual gesture -with his right hand.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That was quite right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Laughing a little</i>] It’s out there yet.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Giggling</i>] So is my umbrella. -[<i>They all laugh.</i>] Oh, listen, Betty dear! I think -I’ll just run upstairs for a minute and use that telephone—see -how Fred is. [<i>She starts towards the left.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[142]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Following her</i>] Yes, do, -Paula.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I’m kind of worried about him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> See if he’s regained consciousness -yet.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Regardless of the fact that a play -is in progress</i>] Excuse me!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Looking up from her manuscript</i>] -Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Certainly, dear. [<i>Twiller -raises his hat towards her, and she waves back at him. -Then he goes up at the right and peeks through the -side wings.</i>] Oh, Paula!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning</i>] Yes, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Be sure and get down in time -for the curtains.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I imagine there’ll be a lot of -flowers come over.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Starting up at the left</i>] I’ll be -right down as soon as I telephone.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, do, dear. [<i>Mrs. Ritter -goes out at the left, and Mrs. Pampinelli turns, touching -her hair, and starts back towards the right. Something -falls beyond the flats. She stops dead, and listens. -Mrs. Fell turns quickly and peeks through the right -door. Twiller comes forward at the right and looks -inquiringly.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[143]</a></span><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Just audible beyond the flats</i>] Then, -you’ve allowed him to think so.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What’s that?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] Perhaps it is.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli, and -quite casually</i>] He knocked the ash-tray over. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli relaxes, and proceeds to arrange the beaded -ornaments on her dress, while Mrs. Fell moves a bit -farther over to the right and stands listening, manuscript -and lorgnon in hand. Twiller crosses to the -left, below Mrs. Fell, and gathers up his gloves and -cane.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] You are deliberately -misinterpreting this situation! Yes you are! -It’s perfectly ridiculous that a physician cannot take -a woman patient without being subjected to the whisperings -of a lot of vulgar scandal-mongers.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> This is not a romantic age, Clyde.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Coming to Mrs. Pampinelli’s right</i>] -Was that inflection of mine any better tonight on that -line, “I’m puzzled.”?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, very much better, I was -listening for it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Thoughtfully</i>] I never seemed to get -the sense of that line until tonight. It just seemed -to—come to me, out there on the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, that is a very significant -line, Mr. Twiller, coming where it does. [<i>Spindler -comes wandering on from the left, comes forward,</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[144]</a></span> -<i>looks about, and goes up to the side wing and looks -through.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I felt a great deal easier in that new -business of turning—down at the bookcase that you -gave me last night.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a touch of smugness</i>] -Much better.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Did you notice it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, of course, I couldn’t see -it, I was here; but I could sense it; and I could tell -from the <i>tone</i> of the scene that it was better. [<i>Spindler -moves over to the extreme left, about half-way -back, and, taking the refractory telephone-bell-arrangement -from his pocket, starts to tinker with it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> I just turned my head <i>this</i> way, [<i>He -turns his head sharply to the right, keeping his body -and shoulders perfectly rigid.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Excellent.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Turning back to her</i>] Without moving -my body.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Very good.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Instead of making the full swing around, -[<i>He makes a complete swing around on his right foot.</i>] -the way I had been doing. [<i>Mrs. Fell raises her lorgnon -and looks over, curiously.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> A very good change.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Very seriously</i>] I <i>felt</i> that it got them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, you see, it gave them<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[145]</a></span> -the full benefit of your expression. [<i>They nod agreement.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> There’s a great deal of light and shade -in that part, right in there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Deprecatingly</i>] Ho! my dear,—it -is <i>all</i> light and shade;—even to the gestures. [<i>She -makes a Delsartian movement with her arms and hands. -Mrs. Fell comes forward a little further and observes -the gesture keenly, through her lorgnon.</i>] ....</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Rather troubled, and shaking his head -a bit</i>] I’ve got to put in a lot of work on <i>my</i> gestures,—they’re -bad, I know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, I shouldn’t exactly say -that your gestures were bad; but I think, perhaps——</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Leaning heavily on his cane</i>] I—ah—I -think I try too hard to be natural.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Smiling, biting her lip, and -rolling her eyes</i>] That’s exactly what I was going -to say. Your gestures are, in a way, <i>too</i> natural. [<i>She -gives a little mirthless laugh, and, out of courtesy, he -joins her.</i>] Of course, that is a very virtuous fault; -but it isn’t pretty, is it? [<i>She laughs again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> No, it isn’t. [<i>The stage manager gets -up, stretches himself, and comes forward at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And, after all, the function of -art is to be pretty, is it not? [<i>She repeats the floating -gesture.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Trying to imitate her</i>] I don’t seem -to be able—to <i>do</i> that, the way you do. [<i>Mrs. Fell</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[146]</a></span> -<i>feels the call, and, putting the manuscript under her -arm, tries rather unsuccessfully to copy the movement.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, it is purely a matter of -experience, Mr. Twiller. But when you’ve been in -the work as long as I have,—you’ll realize that the -bird’s-wing gesture is the <i>only</i> gesture. [<i>She illustrates -again, for the edification of her disciples; and -they attempt rather faithfully to imitate her. The -stage manager stands looking at them.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] But it has its compensations—You’ll -have your memories, [<i>There is a -confusion of voices from beyond the flats, and cries of -“Sit down!”</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Startled</i>] What’s that? [<i>Mrs. -Fell rushes to the right door and peeks through, Twiller -goes over to the right and up, and the stage manager -rushes back to his post and disappears at the left.</i>] -What is it, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning suddenly to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -They’re carrying a man out of the audience! [<i>She -looks back again through the peek, and Mrs. Pampinelli -steps to the left door and peeks. Mrs. Sheppard sweeps -on up at the left, and comes forward. She is a slim -brunette, in her thirties, very attractive, and wearing -the very last whisper in widow’s weeds. She looks -around, rather dramatically, then sees the ladies. Mrs. -Fell looks away from the peek-hole and sees her.</i>] -Betty, there’s Clara!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Looking at Nelly</i>] What?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[147]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Not wishing to be heard</i>] Clara -Sheppard. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli turns quickly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, Clara! [<i>She goes towards -her, and Clara advances a little.</i>] I’m so glad to see -you! [<i>Clara breaks down and weeps.</i>] Now, don’t -do that, dear. You know Jimmy wouldn’t for anything -in the world want you to feel that way. So be -brave, honey. It was splendid of you to come here at -all. And you look wonderful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> I must look perfectly dreadful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> You don’t look anything of the -kind, darling, you look perfectly beautiful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> All I’ve done is cry.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I know just how you feel.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> But I didn’t want you to think -I’d entirely forsaken the cause.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Oh, my dear, we understood -perfectly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> But I just felt I <i>had</i> to come -here tonight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Have you been out in front, -Clara?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Yes, I just <i>had</i> to see it. I don’t -think anybody saw me; I came in late, and stood way -at the back.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> They’d hardly see you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> I don’t think so; I kept my veil -lowered. Of course, I should <i>love</i> to have been right -down in front, where I could get all those <i>wonderful</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[148]</a></span> -little subtleties. But, you know how it is,—I was -afraid people might not understand my being here at -all. It’s only three weeks, you know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> They wouldn’t, either.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> That’s what I thought.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I don’t suppose there’s one person -in <i>ten thousand</i> that has dramatic instinct enough -to appreciate the way you feel. [<i>She turns to the left -door and listens.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Beginning to cry again</i>] The -flowers in the lobby are perfectly beautiful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Still listening</i>] Yes, but I’m -not having them passed over the footlights tonight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Drying her eyes</i>] No?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Except one bouquet for each -of the ladies. It took up too much time the last time.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Glancing about</i>] Where’s Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> She’s upstairs, telephoning. -She’s rather annoyed about Fred, you know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> What about him? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -turns from the door suddenly and looks at her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] There is, my dear -boy,—for lots of people——</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Why, my dear, didn’t you -hear?—about him falling downstairs last night?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Oh, not really!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming towards her</i>] He fell -almost the entire flight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Oh, dear me!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[149]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Poor Paula’s terribly upset.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> What was he doing, coming down -the stairs?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, he was watching our rehearsal. -You know, we held the final rehearsal at -Paula’s house last night—we couldn’t get this place.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Solicitously</i>] Well, did he break -any <i>bones</i>, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No,—Doctor Wentworth said—he -was unconscious before he hit the floor. He said -the fall was the result of a collapse; and that he would -have fallen no matter where he had been. Unfortunately, -he just happened to be on the stairs. [<i>She turns -back again to the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Retrospectively</i>] I <i>thought</i> he -looked pale when I saw him out there tonight. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli turns suddenly and looks at her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] And you have a very -modern wife.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> When you saw him out here, -you mean? [<i>She indicates the audience beyond the -flats.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Yes; he was standing out there -at the back, right near <i>me</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming towards her again</i>] -You <i>must</i> be mistaken, Clara.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> No, Betty, I’m quite <i>sure</i> I saw -him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, the only thing <i>I</i> know<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[150]</a></span> -is that Paula said he hadn’t regained consciousness when -she left the house this evening at seven-thirty. [<i>Mrs. -Ritter comes on up at the back, from the left, and -comes forward.</i>] Here’s Paula now!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Turning round to her left</i>] -Poor dear, she must be terribly upset.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Extending her arms</i>] Clara, dear! -[<i>Mrs. Sheppard bursts into tears again.</i>] This is so nice -of you! [<i>They embrace each other, and Mrs. Ritter -starts to cry.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Isn’t she the sweet thing! -[<i>The door at the right opens.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To the ladies</i>] Shush! [<i>They all -turn and look toward the right door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With a gesture to Mrs. Ritter -and Mrs. Sheppard</i>] Shush! [<i>Hossefrosse comes out -the right door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Beyond the flats</i>] It’s gotten very -chilly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Picking up his hat, cane and gloves -from the chair</i>] Yes, I know it has; I just came in a -few minutes ago.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> You had tickets for the theatre, didn’t -you?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Stepping back through the right -door again</i>] Yes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Why not take me?—for a change. [<i>The -door closes.</i>] You used to—years ago.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Ritter and</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[151]</a></span> -<i>Mrs. Sheppard</i>] Paula, Clara says she thinks she saw -Mr. Ritter out there tonight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Standing at the left</i>] My dear, -Jenny just told me over the telephone that he regained -consciousness a half-hour after I left the house, and -went out. Said she thought from the way he talked -he was coming here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>In the center</i>] Yes, I was <i>sure</i> -I saw him standing out there— [<i>Turning to Mrs. -Ritter</i>] I was just telling Betty.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I wonder if he’s out there yet.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> I don’t know, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> How much of the play did -you see, Clara?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Why, I stayed just as long as I -could, Betty. But when Paula came on, and I heard -those lines of mine again, I just couldn’t stand it. -[<i>She breaks down, and buries her face in her handkerchief.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Laying her hand on her arm</i>] -I know, Clara—you’re such an artist.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Pressing her hands against her -bosom</i>] Everything just seemed to come back on me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I know how it is, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] -I got thinking how Jimmy would feel, if he -could know, that <i>he</i> was the cause of standing in the -way of my first <i>real</i> opportunity. [<i>She cries again.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[152]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Raising her eyes to Heaven</i>] -Perhaps he does know, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Turning to her again</i>] I mean, -you know, he was always so anxious about my getting -into the work. And, somehow or other, I always <i>felt</i>—that -I could have done so much with that part. [<i>Mrs. -Ritter gives a vague little laugh, and Mrs. Sheppard -turns to her quickly.</i>] Oh, of course, you were perfectly -<i>adorable</i> in it, darling, I don’t mean that— -[<i>The left door opens, and Florence is standing in it, -about to come out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli, Mrs. Ritter -and Mrs. Sheppard</i>] Shush!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning and going closer to -the left door</i>] Excuse me, Clara.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Certainly, dear. [<i>Twiller comes -forward at the right.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> [<i>Stepping through the door</i>] By the -way, there was a Mr. Robinson telephoned this morning, -after you’d left the house— [<i>Mrs. Sheppard waves -her handkerchief at Florence, and Florence replies by -quietly flicking her fingers at her. Then, still keeping -in her character, she moves slowly towards the right, -leaving the door open behind her.</i>] He said something -about a list being correct.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Appearing in the doorway, carrying -his hat, cane and gloves</i>] Yes, I know. [<i>He -reaches towards the left, beyond the flats, as though -he were pushing an electric-light button, then thrusts</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[153]</a></span> -<i>his head through the door and says in a fierce whisper.</i>] -Lights.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> Lights out!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Put out the lights, somebody!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Lights, Mr. Stage Manager! -[<i>The stage manager appears from the left, at the back.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Springing from the left, where he has -been engaged in trying to repair the telephone-battery</i>] -Lights out!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Where are you! [<i>The stage -manager reaches up and pulls one of the switches on the -switch-board at the back, and the lights beyond the flats -go out; then he disappears again at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler</span> and <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> I was right here!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Coming through the door</i>] Yes, I -know,— [<i>Closing the door behind him</i>] I talked to -him. [<i>Puts his hat on</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, why aren’t you right -<i>here</i>, where you should be! Stand by for the curtain, -now,—see if you can do that much right. Surely, it’s -the old story of the lark,—if you want a thing done, do -it yourself! Curtain!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Shouting</i>] Curtain! [<i>The curtain, beyond -the flats, begins to roll down, and there is thunderous -applause.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Florence</i>] Marvelous, darling!<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[154]</a></span> -[<i>Florence waves at her, turns, and rushes back towards -the left.</i>] Just lovely, Huxley!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Thanks. [<i>He turns to the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Lights up! Splendid, children!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Florence.</span> I’m awfully glad to see you, Clara!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Hossefrosse</span> -and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Shaking hands with Florence</i>] -You were wonderful, Flossie!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Take up the curtain, Mr. -Stage Manager!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Thank you very much.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Lights up! [<i>The stage manager appears -from the left and pulls the switch again, and the lights -beyond the flats go on.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Take it up! [<i>The stage manager darts -off again to the left. The waltz-music on the piano, -beyond the flats, begins again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Lifting his hat and beaming</i>] -Hello, Clara!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Wonderful! [<i>He deprecates -profusely. The curtain rises again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Go on, Mr. Hossefrosse! [<i>He -opens the right door, removing his hat.</i>] Wait a -moment, Mr. Hossefrosse! Come on, Florence! -[<i>Hossefrosse stops uncertainly in the doorway and looks -at Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>] It’s all right! Go on! [<i>She -opens the left door.</i>] Here, go on here, Florence! -[<i>They go on, bowing, and there is prolonged applause.</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[155]</a></span> -Come on, Paula! go on here! [<i>The curtain descends -again. Paula scurries to the left door, giggling.</i>] -Where’s Mr. Twiller!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> [<i>Springing over from the right, where -he has been talking and laughing with Mrs. Fell</i>] Here -I am!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to the left</i>] Take it -up again, Mr. Stage Manager! [<i>Turning back to -Twiller, and opening the door</i>] Here, Mr. Twiller, -take Paula on! [<i>The curtain can be seen through the -left door rising again.</i>] Come on, Paula! [<i>Twiller -drops his cane, in shifting it from his right hand to his -left.</i>] Hurry up! [<i>He snatches the cane up, and, -taking Paula by the arm, escorts her through the door. -But she trips over the door-strip, nevertheless. And -there is sustained applause. Mrs. Fell, over at the -right, begins to preen herself feverishly. Mrs. Pampinelli -closes the door slowly, and stands listening, smiling. -Teddy appears up at the left and comes forward, -pressing his violet handkerchief to his brow, and looking -very wan. Mrs. Pampinelli turns to him.</i>] Come on, -Teddy, hurry up! They’re just going on! How do -you feel? [<i>The curtain descends.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> Only fair.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Taking him by the right arm -and urging him towards the right</i>] Here, Nelly, go on -for a bow with Teddy! [<i>Rushing back towards the -left</i>] Take it up again, Mr. Stage Manager!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Teddy</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[156]</a></span></p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Opening the right door</i>] Come on, Nelly!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Half-way back, at the left</i>] Take it -up! [<i>Rushing forward at the left</i>] Yes?</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Spindler</i>] Keep it going -up and down till I tell you to stop! And keep it up the -next time till the gentlemen get the flowers!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Shrinking away a little more to the -right of the door, but still preening herself, almost hysterically, -and breaking into a little nervous laugh</i>] Oh, -no, really, dear! I wouldn’t <i>think</i> of it! [<i>Teddy goes -through the right door. The curtain can be seen rising -again; then the door closes after him; and Mrs. Fell -continues talking, to herself.</i>] Why, what have I done -that I should go on. I wouldn’t mind if I’d taken some -part in the play,—but I certainly don’t see—</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Rushing back to the right</i>] -Go on, Nelly! what are you waiting for? [<i>The curtain -descends again. Mrs. Fell rushes towards Mrs. -Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Handing Mrs. Pampinelli the rolled -manuscript</i>] Hold this!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Hurry, dear! [<i>Mrs. Fell -rushes to the right door, settles herself finally, and -flings the door open. The curtain is just rising. And, -placing one hand upon her bosom, dropping her eyes and -smiling, Nelly sways through the door, acknowledging -the plaudits. Mrs. Pampinelli, standing in the middle</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[157]</a></span> -<i>of the stage, applauds, also, hitting the manuscript -against her hand. The door closes after Mrs. Fell. -Mrs. Sheppard, over at the left, suddenly bursts into -tears and buries her face in her handkerchief. Mrs. -Pampinelli turns quickly and looks at her, then crosses -towards her.</i>] Do you want to take a bow, Clara?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> Oh, no, thank you! [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli turns back to the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Get those flowers, boys! Keep -it up, Mr. Stage Manager! Come on, Clara! go on -for a bow! [<i>Reaches for Mrs. Sheppard’s hand</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Giving Mrs. Pampinelli her -hand, and allowing herself to be drawn towards the -right</i>] Do you think they’d understand, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Of course, they would, my -dear! They know it isn’t your fault that you’re not -appearing! [<i>Mrs. Fell thrusts open the right door. -She has a basket of roses in her hand.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> They’re <i>calling</i> for you, Betty! [<i>Someone -in the audience can be heard calling Mrs. Pampinelli’s -name.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Here, Nelly, take Clara on for -a bow!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Impatiently</i>] They’re calling for you, -dear! [<i>Mrs. Sheppard hastily throws her veil back, -dramatically.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I’ll take one alone, afterwards! -[<i>The applause swells again.</i>] Go on, Clara!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[158]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Extending her right hand</i>] Come on, -dear!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Sheppard.</span> [<i>Giving Mrs. Fell her left hand</i>] -Oh, I don’t feel that I should! [<i>Mrs. Fell keeps the -door open, and Clara droops through, bowing. Then -Mrs. Fell closes the door and Mrs. Pampinelli turns to -the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Keep it up, Mr. Spindler!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> Keep it up!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> [<i>Thrusting open the left door</i>] Mrs. -Pampinelli! [<i>There is a vision through the door of -the various artists bowing towards the back wall, all -the ladies laden with flowers.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> All right, dear! I’m coming! -[<i>Hossefrosse closes the door, and Mrs. Pampinelli -deftly touches her hair and flings her train out to its -full length behind her. Then she speaks in a loud -voice, so that she may be heard by those on the other -side of the flats.</i>] Everybody stand to one side! Stand -to one side, everybody! [<i>She pulls open the left door -and stands, smiling: then she steps through the door; -and, instantly, the curtain falls with a deafening crash. -The door closes after her. Nelly Fell gives a piercing -scream. Spindler comes rushing down from the left to -the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Teddy.</span> [<i>Shouting, beyond the flats</i>] Curtain!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> Take up the curtain!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Twiller.</span> Take it up! [<i>There is a babel of voices</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[159]</a></span> -<i>beyond the flats. Then the left door is thrust violently -open, and Mrs. Pampinelli looks out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Harshly, to Spindler</i>] What’s -the matter with the curtain?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>In a panic of excitement</i>] Something’s -broke! [<i>The stage manager rushes on from the left -and comes forward.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coming out through the door -and calling to the stage manager, whom she hasn’t seen -yet</i>] Take up the curtain, Mr. Stage Manager!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> I can’t take it up, the guy-rope’s -broken! [<i>He goes up at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What? [<i>Mrs. Fell comes running -through the right door, carrying her basket of -flowers, and crosses towards the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What is it, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] He says the guy-rope’s -broken!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Brushing him aside, to the -left, and rushing up at the left</i>] My God! did anyone -ever hear of such stupidity!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell</span> and <span class="smcap">Spindler</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I’ll go on at the side here!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What’s the matter, Mr. Spindler?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Shouting after Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] He -says he can’t get it up! [<i>Mrs. Sheppard comes through -the right doorway with an armload of American Beauty</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[160]</a></span> -<i>roses, and stands looking anxiously from side to side. -Teddy follows her out and stands at her right, discussing -the incident. Florence opens the left door and -comes out. Her arms are full of tiger-lilies. She -moves to the right and speaks to Mrs. Sheppard, -nervously.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> You can’t get through there, -lady! [<i>Twiller comes out the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span> and <span class="smcap">Stage Manager</span>, together;</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I must get through somewhere!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> That tormentor’s too narrow -there!</p> -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, <span class="smcap">Stage Manager</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. -Fell</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning frantically and rushing -forward again at the left</i>] I’ll try the other side! -He says it’s too narrow there!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> I don’t know how you’re going -to do it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>As Mrs. Pampinelli sweeps between -her and Spindler</i>] What is it he says is broken, Betty? -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli rushes over towards the right. She -literally sweeps Twiller, who is in her path, out of the -way, and he falls backward over a stage-brace, onto -the floor. Mrs. Fell picks up her dress and runs after -Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Spindler.</span> [<i>Outrunning Mrs. Fell</i>] The guy-rope!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[161]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Well, why doesn’t he fix it! Betty! -Betty dear! [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli rushes up at the extreme -right and tries desperately to find a way of getting -through; but everything is solidly masked. Hossefrosse -comes out the left door, and the stage manager -comes forward at the left and stands looking after Mrs. -Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Hossefrosse.</span> What’s the matter, can’t Mrs. -Pampinelli get her bow?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> She can’t get on any more from -that side than she can from this! [<i>Hossefrosse steps -out through the door and looks toward the right. The -door closes after him.</i>] There’s the same opening over -there as there is here! [<i>The applause beyond the flats, -which has kept up throughout the debacle, begins to die. -Mrs. Pampinelli comes sweeping back from the right -with fire in her eye,—Nelly Fell and Spindler still at -her heels. She plants herself in the middle of the stage -and glares at the stage manager.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>In a voice shrill with anger</i>] -My God! what’s the matter with your curtain!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> [<i>Losing his temper</i>] The guy-rope’s -broken! I’ve told you that about a dozen times! -[<i>He turns doggedly away to the left, as though he were -going up to his chair; but he stops short and finishes his -remarks to her over his left shoulder.</i>] What do you -want me to do, write you a letter! [<i>The left door is -pushed quietly open; and Mrs. Ritter, with her face</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[162]</a></span> -<i>just visible above a perfect screen of roses, looks blankly -at the stage manager.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Vaguely</i>] There’s something the -matter with the curtain. [<i>The real stage curtain commences -to descend.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Stage Manager.</span> [<i>Leaning towards her, assuming -her general manner and tone, and flipping his hand at -her</i>] Y-E-E-S! [<i>He goes up towards his chair, and -Mrs. Ritter stands in wide-eyed astonishment.</i>]</p> - - -<p class="center">END OF THE ACT.</p> - -<hr class="chap" /> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[163]</a></span> -<h2 class="nobreak">THE TORCH-BEARERS.<br /> - -<span class="smcap">Act III.</span></h2></div> - - -<p>NOTE:</p> - -<p>The setting for Act III is the same as for Act I -except that the small chair which Jenny brings on at -the opening of the play is eliminated.</p> - - -<p><i>Jenny is seated at the table below the piano, reading -the Pictorial Review. The door closes out at the right. -She stops reading and listens. Then resumes. Ritter -wanders in from the right hallway, wearing a black -overcoat and a derby. The derby is a bit over one eye -and his cigar is at a comic angle. Jenny sees him and -rises immediately, circling around to the left to the -middle of the room.</i></p> - - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Oh, Mr. Ritter! [<i>He comes into the -center-door and stands there, looking at nothing.</i>] I -didn’t hear you come in, sir. Is the show over?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Removing his gloves</i>] It’s all over town -by this time.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Standing slightly left of the center of the -room, facing him</i>] Mrs. Ritter just telephoned a minute -ago.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Is she alive?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Alive, Mr. Ritter?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[164]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Moving down to the table below the -piano, and thrusting his gloves into his overcoat pocket</i>] -Because if she is, she’s got a charmed life. [<i>Commencing -to unfasten his coat</i>] The Seamen’s Institute! -God help them on a night like this.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> She was anxious to know if you were still -unconscious.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Taking off his overcoat</i>] If she telephones -again, tell her yes. [<i>He is in a tuxedo-suit.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Crossing to him and helping him with the -coat</i>] Ain’t you feelin’ well again, Mr. Ritter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> No, Jenny, I’m not. [<i>He hands her his -derby.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Taking the hat and coat to the partition-seat -above the piano</i>] Well, I’m sure I’m sorry, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Removing his scarf</i>] And after that exhibition -tonight,—I don’t think I ever shall feel exactly -well again.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Coming down at his left and passing back -of him</i>] Was it a sad play?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Handing her his scarf, and speaking with -measured conviction</i>] The saddest thing I’ve ever seen -in my life.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> I allus cry when a show is sad.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Is that so?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, sir; and a funny thing about me is—the -sadder it is the more I cry.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You’d have had a big night if you’d been -with me. [<i>She passes back of him with the scarf, to put</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[165]</a></span> -<i>it with the other things.</i>] You’d better leave those -things here, Jenny, I may leave town again tonight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> I’ll leave them right here. [<i>She turns -from an arrangement of the things and comes forward -to the middle of the room.</i>] Did they clap much when -Mrs. Ritter finished?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Still standing above the table near the -piano, clipping the tip of a cigar which he has taken -from his pocket</i>] I didn’t wait for the finish; they carried -me out.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> I’m dyin’ till she gets home, for I know -exactly how she felt. [<i>He looks at her keenly—she is -looking straight ahead.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Have you been on the stage, too, Jenny?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Turning to him</i>] No, sir, I haven’t, Mr. -Ritter, not lately. But when I was at home in England -I used to go on every once in a while. For a bit of a -change, you know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes, I know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> We had a little club in the town I lived -in, and we used to give a show twice a year. [<i>Ritter -nods slowly and comprehendingly.</i>] I always took off -the comical parts.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> How is it they didn’t get you into this -show tonight?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Oh, I haven’t been on for a long time now, -Mr. Ritter. My husband put a stop to it. [<i>She looks -away off.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to her</i>] What was the matter?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[166]</a></span><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Turning to him, suddenly</i>] He died.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Replacing his penknife</i>] I see.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> And I never felt much like cuttin’ up after -that. [<i>The telephone-bell rings. She turns quickly -and starts for the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Moving over towards the mantelpiece</i>] -See who that is, Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Hurrying out into the left hallway</i>] Yes, -sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Getting a match from the table below -the mantelpiece</i>] Anybody for me, I’ve gone into permanent -retirement.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>At the telephone</i>] Yes? [<i>He listens narrowly.</i>] -Mr. Ritta? [<i>He makes a rapid movement -towards her.</i>] Oh, Mrs. Ritta?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>In a subdued tone</i>] Who do they want?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] No, mam, she hasn’t -got home yet. [<i>Lowering the telephone and speaking -to Ritter</i>] Mrs. Ritter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Casually</i>] Who is it, the police? [<i>He -lights his cigar.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] All right, Mrs. Livingston, -I’ll give her your message as soon as she comes -in. You’re more than welcome I’m sure. [<i>She hangs -up and comes to the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking at her</i>] Mrs. Livingston?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What did she want?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[167]</a></span><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> She sez she wanted to congratulate Mrs. -Ritter on her perfect performance tonight.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Did she see the show?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> She didn’t say, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Conclusively, and crossing in front of her -down to the window at the right</i>] She didn’t see it. If -any of those women come back here with Mrs. Ritter, -Jenny,—say that I’m not home yet, do you understand.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Settling the overcoat on the partition-seat</i>] -Yes, sir.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking through the window</i>] And that -you haven’t seen anything <i>of</i> me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, sir, Mr. Ritter, all right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> If my wife’s alone, let me know as soon -as she comes in.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, sir, I will. [<i>The telephone-bell rings, -and she hurries out to answer it.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Half turning from the window</i>] You -haven’t seen anything of me, remember.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> No, sir. [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Yes, sir? -[<i>He listens, without turning.</i>] No, sir, she hasn’t got -home yet. [<i>She lowers the telephone and looks at him, -wide-eyed. He feels that she’s looking at him and turns -suddenly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Taking a step towards her, below the -piano</i>] What is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] No, sir, <i>he</i> hasn’t -got home yet neither.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Apprehensively</i>] Do they want me?<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[168]</a></span> -[<i>She nods yes.</i>] Who is it? [<i>She nods that she -doesn’t know.</i>] Police Headquarters I’ll bet a ten -dollar note! [<i>He crosses down below the table at the -left and around up to the mantelpiece.</i>] Tell them -that I had absolutely nothing to do with her going on! -That I didn’t hear about it until last night! [<i>He -crosses back again down towards the table below the -piano.</i>] And that I’ve been unconscious ever since.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] The Times?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Stopping above the table</i>] My God, the -newspapers have got hold of it!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Well, just a minute, -please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning suddenly to her</i>] Tell them -she did it on a bet!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> The Times newspaper wants to know if -Mrs. Ritter has a full-length photograph of herself for -the morning paper.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Emphatically, and going out through the -center-door into the right hallway and up the stairs</i>] -Tell them NO!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Hello.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> But that she’ll have some taken as soon as -she gets out of jail. [<i>He goes through the arched doorway -at the head of the stairs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Why, I couldn’t say, -sir, whether Mrs. Ritter has a photograph of herself -or not, sir; but I’ll give her your message as soon as -she comes in.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[169]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>In the right hallway</i>] Hurry, -Theodore.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Still at the telephone</i>] You’re more than -welcome I’m sure. [<i>She hangs up and hurries in -through the center-door, glancing out the right hallway -as she comes and, gathering up Mr. Ritter’s overcoat, -derby and scarf, hurries over above the table at the -left and out.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>In the right hallway</i>] Be -careful of those jonquils. Now, be careful, Theodore! -Now go back and fetch the others. [<i>Coming into -view, and seeing Jenny coming in again at the left -door</i>] Oh, you’re up, Jenny, aren’t you! [<i>She comes -through the center-door, carrying her fan and an armload -of orchids and red chrysanthemums, and wearing -an enormous flowing cape of ruffled black lace, touched -all over with tiny circular sequins in gold. Her dress, -of course, is the ruby-velvet one of the preceding act.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, mam, I’m up.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Hastening to the table below -the piano</i>] I’m so glad; I hope I haven’t roused you. -[<i>She puts her fan on the piano and sets all the flowers -down on the table.</i>] Will you go out and get those -flowers from my chauffeur, Jenny?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Going out through the center-door into -the right hallway</i>] Yes, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Arranging the flowers on the -table</i>] He’s set them right down there in the hallway.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[170]</a></span> -I came right on in when I found the door unlocked; -I was afraid you’d be asleep.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> No, mam, I was waitin’ up.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Sweeping around to her left -and up to the center-door</i>] Well, that’s perfectly -angelic of you I’m sure. [<i>She stands on the left side -of the center-door and looks out into the right hallway.</i>] -Can you manage, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Appearing from the right</i>] I think so. -[<i>She struggles through the center-door carrying an -enormous horseshoe, made of red and white carnations -and ferns. It is at least four feet high, set upon an -easel, and across the front of it is a strip of white-satin -ribbon ten inches wide with the word “SUCCESS” -inscribed upon it in blue-velvet letters. She is -also carrying a huge basket of jonquils, and a star -made of white pansies. This last touch is fastened -upon a violet easel.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Let me help you, child. [<i>She -takes the basket of jonquils and the star of pansies from -Jenny.</i>] Now, set that right down there. [<i>She indicates -a point in front of the mantelpiece for the horseshoe, -and Jenny crosses in front of her with it.</i>] I -want Mrs. Ritter to see it <i>first</i>, when she comes in,—it’s -so appropriate. [<i>She sets the basket of jonquils on the -piano.</i>] I suppose we can put these down anywhere -here until she comes, can’t we? [<i>She sets the easel -of pansies down on the floor at the right of the table -below the piano.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[171]</a></span><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Having set the horseshoe down in front -of the mantelpiece</i>] This way, Mrs. Pampinelli?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> No, dear, <i>facing</i> the door.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Oh, I see. [<i>She turns it round facing the -center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That’s it. I want it to catch -her eye as she comes in. And now will you go back -and fetch the others, Jenny?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Hurrying out through the center-door</i>] -Yes, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Gathering up the chrysanthemums -from the table</i>] And these chrysanthemums, -[<i>She sweeps across towards the mantelpiece and turns -to her left, strewing the chrysanthemums through the -center-door and down toward the table at the left.</i>] -I’ll just strew in her pathway. [<i>Jenny comes in from -the right hallway carrying a huge anchor of vivid red -roses, with a broad band of navy-blue ribbon running -diagonally across it, and the words “SEAMEN’S -INSTITUTE” in white-velvet letters. She stands -right in the center-door, holding it, waiting for instructions -as to its disposition from Mrs. Pampinelli. But -Mrs. Pampinelli is lost in admiration of it, standing just -to the left of the center-door.</i>] Now, set that right down -here, Jenny. [<i>She indicates a point at the extreme left, -below the door, and Jenny hastens to place it there, -setting it down half-facing the center-door; and Mrs. -Pampinelli stands up at the center-door admiring it.</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[172]</a></span> -Hope! [<i>Jenny turns to her and gives a faint little -laugh.</i>] Hope, for the success [<i>She indicates the -horseshoe with a gesture.</i>] of our enterprise. [<i>They -both laugh, and Mrs. Pampinelli steps quickly down to -the table below the piano and picks up the orchids.</i>] -And these orchids, I think I shall just put right here -on this table. [<i>She crosses to the table below the casement-window -and puts them down; then straightens up -and sighs.</i>] Ho, dear me, I’m warm! [<i>She crosses -back between the piano and the table below it, picking -up her fan as she goes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Moving up and across back of the table -at the left, towards the center of the room</i>] ’Tis a bit -warm.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Fanning herself, as she moves -towards the middle of the room</i>] And then I hurried -so,—foolishly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Did everything go along all right?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Magnificently, my dear child! -And Mrs. Ritter was a positive sensation.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Did she get all these flowers?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Deprecatingly</i>] Ho! This -isn’t the half of them! We sent three automobiles -full to the various hospitals. And Mrs. Fell’s car was -still taking them when I left. [<i>Jenny shakes her head -from side to side in wonderment.</i>] These are just a -few that we rescued for Mrs. Ritter. [<i>She moves -towards the center-door.</i>] Sort of a little surprise for<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[173]</a></span> -her, you know, when she gets home. [<i>She stands looking -out into the right hallway, expectantly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> They’re certainly ’andsome.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> She doesn’t even know that -I’ve brought them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Is she comin’ right home, do you know, -Mrs. Pampinelli?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Jenny</i>] Why, I -<i>expect</i> her, yes. I was afraid she’d get here ahead of -me. She was waiting for Mr. Ritter. [<i>Coming forward -a little</i>] We heard at the hall that he was -there, and she thought probably he’d come back and -pick her up. He hasn’t <i>come</i> home, has he?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> No, mam, I haven’t seen anything of him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Laughing a little, indulgently, -securing a hair-pin, and moving over towards the right</i>] -Poor man! His wife’s success has very likely gone to -his head. [<i>She glances out the window.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> He went out of here about eight o’clock.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning and coming back -towards Jenny</i>] Yes, we were so surprised to hear that -he was there at all. Because Mrs. Ritter had said -that he hadn’t regained consciousness up to the time -she left the house.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> He hadn’t, neither. I thought I ’ad two -’eads on me when I came in and saw him puttin’ on -’is ’at and coat.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, did he seem all right?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, he seemed right enough; but he was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[174]</a></span> -awful pale-lookin’. And a couple a times I spoke to -’im, he gave me kind of a funny answer. So I got a -bit frightened, you know; and I asked ’im if he knew -where he was goin’. And he said, “Yes,” that he was -goin’ to see “The Torch-Bearers.” Kind a flightly, -you know.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, he would be, naturally.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> So then,—when he got to the door, he -turned around—and he sez to me—“Jenny!—if you -never see me again,—I want you to know I <i>died</i> in -the cause of Art.”—And he went out.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> He was probably rambling a -bit.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> But, he walked straight enough.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning suddenly to the -center-door</i>] I think I hear a machine, Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Stepping across quickly below the table -to the casement-window</i>] I’ll see.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Do quickly, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Is Mrs. Fell comin’ back tonight?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Looking out eagerly into -the right hallway</i>] Yes, she’s bringing the rest of the -flowers. I’ve sent my car back for her.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Turning abruptly from the window and -hurrying across below the piano towards the center-door</i>] -Here’s Mrs. Ritta now!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Is Mr. Ritter with her? -[<i>Intercepting Jenny</i>] No, don’t go out, Jenny! I -want to hear what they say when they see the flowers.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[175]</a></span> -[<i>Turning her round by the shoulder and indicating the -door down at the left</i>] You go into the other room -there, and I’ll hide here— [<i>She moves forward at the -right and across below the piano.</i>] in this window.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Hurrying towards the door at the left</i>] -All right, mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Stopping near the window -and turning to Jenny</i>] And, Jenny dear!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Turning at the left door</i>] Yes, mam?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Don’t come out—until you -hear <i>me</i> say “SURPRISE!”</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> All right, Mrs. Pampinelli, I won’t. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli steps into the alcove of the window, then -turns again to Jenny.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Now, remember, Jenny,—“SURPRISE!”</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, I know. [<i>She closes the door, and -Mrs. Pampinelli conceals herself behind the window-drapery. -There is a slight pause; then Mrs. Ritter -hurries in from the right hallway, carrying a marvelous -bouquet of American Beauty roses. She comes in -through the center-door and stands, looking, with a -touch of astonishment, at the horseshoe. Then her eyes -wander down to the anchor; and then over to the -easel at the right. She is gowned in a very pale shade -of gray lace, with gray-silk slippers and stockings; and -around her head she is wearing a wreath of laurel in -gold, touched with brilliants. Her cloak is of black -chiffon-velvet, with a cape collar of black fox. She</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[176]</a></span> -<i>slides this cloak from her shoulders onto the partition-seat -at the right, and starts across towards the door -at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Opening the door</i>] Are you up, -Jenny?—Jenny! [<i>She closes the door again and -crosses above the table at the left and over to the one -below the piano. Here she sets down a few of the -roses, then decides there is not sufficient room for all -of them, and starts across to the table at the left. -Ritter appears at the head of the stairs and starts down -slowly. She sees him, and stops dead.</i>] Fred! [<i>She -moves up towards the left of the center-door.</i>] You -don’t mean to tell me you’ve been home here,—and -there I’ve been waiting at the hall since before ten -o’clock. [<i>He wanders in through the center-door and -leans against the piano, holding a lighted cigar in his -hand.</i>] Why didn’t you come back for me? Irene -Colter had to bring me home. [<i>She starts to cry.</i>] -Clara Sheppard <i>told</i> me she saw you there, so, naturally, -I waited for you. And when you didn’t come -back, why, of course, right away—I thought something -had happened to you. [<i>She cries into her handkerchief.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Without moving, and in a toneless voice</i>] -Something <i>has</i> happened to me. [<i>She looks at him -apprehensively.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> What happened to you, Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Stonily, and moving down and across -below the piano</i>] I’ve seen you act.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[177]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> What? [<i>He raises his left hand -solemnly and continues to the corner of the piano -nearest the window, where he leans. She moves down -a bit after him.</i>] What’s the matter, Fred,—did you -have another of those spells that you had last night?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Yes; only a great deal worse.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, isn’t that dreadful! What do -you think it is, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning slightly, and glancing at the -violet easel and over at the anchor</i>] I don’t know what -it is. It looks like a <i>wake</i> to me. Who’s dead?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Dead?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What are all these flowers doing here?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, I imagine some of the ladies -have been here from the show—to fix up a little surprise -for <i>me</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> They should have lighted a few candles, -and completed the effect.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But, these are just presents, Fred, -from friends of ours.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Straightening up, and moving across below -the table</i>] They are tokens of sympathy, that’s what -they are. [<i>He crosses up and over above the table at -the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Following him over</i>] But, there’s -nobody <i>dead</i>, dear!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Raising his left hand solemnly again</i>] -Oh, yes there is! Oh yes!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[178]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> <i>Really</i>, dear! [<i>He turns, just back -of the arm-chair, and pins her with a look.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You’re dead. [<i>She stands perfectly still, -looking at him, wide-eyed.</i>] You died tonight,—down -there on that stage at Horticultural Hall. And so did -everybody that was up there with you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>With a troubled, uncomprehending -expression</i>] Why, how could I be dead, dear,—when -I’m here,—talking to you? [<i>He stands looking straight -ahead, smoking. She bursts out crying, and turns to -the partition-seat at the right of the center-door.</i>] Oh, -Fred! it’s terrible to see you this way!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Sweeping his hand across his brow and -starting across below the table towards the right</i>] The -human brain can only stand so much.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Setting her roses down on the partition-seat</i>] -You’ve just been working yourself to -death! But nobody could tell you anything! [<i>She -starts out into the left hallway for the telephone.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Stopping over near the window and turning</i>] -What are you going to do?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning to him</i>] Why, I’m going -to call Doctor Wentworth of course.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What for?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, because you <i>need</i> him!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Taking a step or two towards her, between -the piano and the table below it</i>] I won’t see any doctor, -now!</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[179]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming back through the center-door</i>] -Now,—listen, Fred—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Raising his hand, and crossing to the left</i>] -I won’t see any doctor, I tell you—there’s nothing he -can do for me: [<i>He stops above the arm-chair at the -left and rests his hand upon the back of it.</i>] it’s all -been done. There’s nothing left for me but to get -out of town.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Following him over</i>] Well, just let -him come over and <i>see</i> you, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What would I let him come over and <i>see</i> -me for? There’s nothing the matter with me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, you’re as pale as a ghost!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> That’s nothing—I’ve had a scare.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Solicitously</i>] What scared you, dear? -[<i>He turns and looks at her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I was afraid every minute somebody was -going to shoot <i>you</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>After a bewildered pause</i>] But, why -should anybody shoot <i>me</i>, darling?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> For trying to act. [<i>He moves forward -and across in front of the table, to the right,—she -watching him blankly.</i>] Making a laughing-stock of -yourselves in front of the community.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Didn’t you like me, Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Casually, as he nears the window</i>] I did -till I saw you act. [<i>He turns around to his right and -leans on the piano. She moves over towards the table -below the piano.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[180]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Rather helplessly, as the situation -dawns upon her</i>] Why, Mrs. Pampinelli said I was -a great artist.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>With vast amusement</i>] Ha! [<i>Then he -looks at his wife and speaks very exactly.</i>] Mrs. Pampinelli -is perhaps the world’s greatest <i>NUT</i>. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli, standing back in the widow-alcove at the -right, in a state of puzzled irresolution, reacts, physically, -to this last observation, causing an abrupt movement -of the drapery. But, neither Ritter nor his wife -are looking in that direction at the moment.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Laying the remaining roses on the -table</i>] She says I ought to go on with the work.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Dryly</i>] She meant the housework. [<i>He -replaces his cigar in his mouth.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking at him with a touch of resentment</i>] -No, she didn’t mean anything of the kind. -She says I ought to go to New York. [<i>He takes the -cigar from his mouth and looks at her keenly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> And what would you do when you’d <i>get</i> -there?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, I’d go on the stage, of course.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Very level</i>] How?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why, I’d go to the people that have -charge of it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> And, do you think they’d put you on the -stage simply because you wanted to <i>go</i> on it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Well, Mrs. Pampinelli could give me -a letter—</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[181]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Hum!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> So that I’d have it when I’d <i>get</i> -there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> That’d do you a lot of good. You’d find -a <i>thousand</i> there ahead of you, with letters from Mrs. -Pampinellis. Nobody in New York knows Mrs. Pampinelli; -and if they did, it’d probably <i>kill</i> any chance -that a person <i>might</i> have otherwise. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -can contain herself no longer. She flips the window-drapery -aside with a deft movement and stands looking -at Ritter, from a great height. Mrs. Ritter, who is -facing the window, utters an abrupt shriek of astonishment. -Then Ritter turns, rather casually, to see the -cause of his wife’s agitation, and finds himself looking -into the frozen eyes of Mrs. Pampinelli. He regards -her rather impersonally, and then quietly reaches up -and secures his collar and tie. She steps majestically -from the window-alcove and moves a bit nearer to him, -still holding him with an icy stare.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>After a devastating pause</i>] You -creature.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning smoothly away, to his left, as -though he had been suddenly struck by something, in -the right eye</i>] Another <i>actress</i>. [<i>He moves along a -few steps to the left, in front of the table, then turns -and speaks to Mrs. Pampinelli over his left shoulder.</i>] -What did you do, come through the window?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I’ve been <i>hiding</i> here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Resuming his walk over to the left</i>] I don’t<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[182]</a></span> -blame you,—after that show; I’ve been doing the same -thing myself. [<i>He sits in the arm-chair over at the -left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Who has been standing in a panic in -the middle of the room, staring wide-eyed at Mrs. -Pampinelli</i>] Oh, Mrs. Pampinelli,—you <i>didn’t</i> hear -what he’s been saying?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Every word. [<i>She very regally -deposits her fan upon the piano, and Mrs. Ritter, turning -to Ritter, makes a long, moaning sound.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Now, Fred Ritter, you see what -you’ve done! [<i>She bursts into tears, and comes down -to the chair at the left of the table below the piano and -sits down.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Moving to a point above the -table</i>] And I wouldn’t have missed it. I’ll know how -to regard this gentleman in the future. I came home -hurriedly with these few flowers as a little acknowledgment -of the appreciation your work deserved; and -all I hear is abuse; and a very crude, but very venomous -attempt at satire. [<i>Mrs. Ritter weeps aloud.</i>] -Control yourself, darling, I wouldn’t please him.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Quietly</i>] She’s acting again.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Withering him with a glance</i>] -You barbarian! [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] Pull yourself together, -dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, I just <i>can’t</i>, Mrs. Pampinelli.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Addressing Ritter directly, and</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[183]</a></span> -<i>indicating Mrs. Ritter</i>] Look at the state of emotion -you’ve got this poor girl into!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She’s an emotional actress. [<i>Mrs. Ritter -bursts forth again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Savage! [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] Let -me get you something, darling.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Call Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, dear. [<i>She crosses to a -point just to the left of the middle of the room, then -stops and calls toward the door at the left.</i>] Jenny -dear, <i>SURPRISE</i>! [<i>Ritter listens, with a puzzled expression.</i>] -Come here, Jenny,—SURPRISE! [<i>Ritter -turns around in the chair, to his right, and looks at her -curiously. She meets his eyes with steady bitterness. -Then he shifts his gaze to his wife.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why didn’t you take your make-up off?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I forgot it,—I was so worried about -you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> You look like a Dutch squaw. [<i>She -bursts into tears again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Hastening over to her</i>] Let -her alone! Don’t mind him, Paula.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She’s all made up! and it’s coming off.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, what if it is?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Settling back into the arm-chair</i>] I don’t -want to be reminded of that show. [<i>Jenny enters hurriedly -from the door at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Mrs. Ritter is ill, Jenny.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[184]</a></span> -[<i>Jenny comes quickly across, above the table at the -left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Half turning to her</i>] My smelling-salts, -Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing back of Mrs. Ritter</i>] -Her smelling-salts, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Hurrying out through the center-door</i>] Yes, -mam.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> They’re in my bureau-basket.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning and calling after -Jenny</i>] In her bureau-basket, Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Running up the stairs</i>] Yes, mam, I know -where they are.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Gathering up the roses from -the table</i>] Let me take these flowers out of your way, -dear. You’ve been treated abominably. Although -your husband’s attitude is entirely consistent with that -of the average husband’s, after his wife has distinguished -herself. [<i>Ritter makes a little sound of amusement, -and she glares at him.</i>] And any observations -of Mr. Ritter’s to the contrary, you <i>did</i> distinguish -yourself tonight, Paula. [<i>She turns to her right and -puts the roses on the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Sitting away down in the arm-chair, -smoking</i>] So did the Cherry Sisters. [<i>Mrs. Ritter -weeps again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning back again from the -piano to Mrs. Ritter</i>] We are not talking to you at -all, sir. [<i>Mrs. Ritter has a slight coughing spell.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[185]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Will you get me a drink of water, -please?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Certainly, darling, where is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> You’ll find it just inside the breakfast-room. -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli sails across the room towards -the left door. Just as she is passing back of -Ritter’s chair, he turns and looks at her, and the excessive -grandeur of her manner causes him to burst -out laughing. But she simply freezes him with a look -and goes out through the left door. He continues to -laugh; and Mrs. Ritter, not having seen the cause of -his laughter, stops crying and turns and looks at him, -very troubled.</i>] Fred Ritter, you’re acting to me tonight—just -like a man that’d be losing his mind! [<i>He -looks over at her.</i>] I really thought that was what was -the matter with you when I first came in!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Very confidentially</i>] Listen—When I -didn’t lose my mind watching that show tonight, I -couldn’t go nutty if I tried.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Well, if anybody else comes here -tonight, you just keep that kind of talk to yourself. -There were lots of people there that thought it was -wonderful. Look at all these flowers.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> These flowers were all paid for long before -anybody saw that show. [<i>There is a staccato tap -at the front door-bell. Jenny is hurrying down the -stairs with the smelling-salts.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Rising, and trying to fix herself up -a bit</i>] Well, that’s only your opinion. [<i>She starts for</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[186]</a></span> -<i>the center-door.</i>] This is very likely Nelly Fell. [<i>Turning -back to him as she nears the center-door</i>] Now, -don’t you say anything to <i>her</i>, remember! She likes -you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>In the right hallway</i>] No, I think -I can manage, Theodore. [<i>Jenny hands Mrs. Ritter -the smelling-salts, at the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Thanks, Jenny.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> You’re welcome. [<i>She hurries out into the -right hallway, and Mrs. Ritter comes forward to the -chair below the piano, sniffing the salts. Ritter rises -and saunters around and up to the left of the arm-chair.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> You can close that door, if you will! -Couldn’t wait for you, Jenny! [<i>She rushes in from the -right hallway.</i>] I’m too much excited! [<i>She plants herself -in the center-door, holding aloft in her right hand -a beautiful basket of tulips, and in her left, a huge -bouquet of violets.</i>] Well, here <i>I</i> am, with <i>my</i> frankincense -and myrrh! [<i>She gives an hysterical giggle and -teeters forward towards Mrs. Ritter.</i>] Oh, there you -are, Frederick Ritter! We thought something had happened -to you! Pauline, dear child, I’ve come to worship -at your shrine. [<i>She places the basket of tulips -down on the floor to the left of Mrs. Ritter, then -straightens up, regards Mrs. Ritter, giggles frantically, -and looks over at Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Laughing wanly, and trying generally</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[187]</a></span> -<i>not to appear as though she’d been crying</i>] -You’ve been very sweet.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Not half so sweet as you were on that -stage tonight! [<i>Speaking confidentially, and with great -conviction</i>] Dear child, you’re made! Absolutely made! -[<i>Turning to Ritter</i>] Isn’t she, Frederick? [<i>But he’s -busy getting rid of some ashes in the fireplace, so she -returns to Mrs. Ritter.</i>] It’s one of those overnight -things that one reads about! [<i>She picks up the basket -of tulips from the floor and teeters around above -the table.</i>] Dear me, look at this wilderness of flowers! -[<i>She sets the basket on the table.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Trying not to cry</i>] Yes, yes, aren’t -they beautiful! [<i>She darts a look at Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Rapturously</i>] Not another word until -I’ve kissed you! [<i>She kisses her on the left side of -the head.</i>] Oh, you sweet child! [<i>She shakes Mrs. -Ritter by the shoulders.</i>] what can I <i>say</i> to you! [<i>Then -she teeters to the middle of the room, addressing Ritter -directly.</i>] See here, young man! Why aren’t you -just <i>pelting</i> your wife with these flowers? [<i>He tries -to hide his appreciation of the situation by turning -away his head.</i>] Answer me! [<i>He bursts out laughing, -and Nelly teeters back towards Mrs. Ritter.</i>] My -dear, the man is so pleased he can’t talk! [<i>Ritter -laughs a little more.</i>] And if you were any other woman -but his wife, Paula, he’d be sending you mash-notes! -[<i>Ritter begins to laugh again, and Nelly teeters -towards him.</i>] Oh, you can laugh all you like, Frederick<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[188]</a></span> -Ritter, but you can’t fool Nelly Fell! [<i>She comes -back towards Mrs. Ritter, addressing her.</i>] I’ve had -three husbands,—I know their tricks. [<i>She places her -finger on Mrs. Ritter’s shoulder.</i>] Pauline, dear child, -you may be sure that that young man is proud of you -tonight if he never was before. [<i>Mrs. Ritter tries to -laugh.</i>] And when he gets you alone—[<i>Mrs. Ritter’s -attempt at laughter is instantly abandoned, and she -gives a startled glance toward Ritter, who turns away -to his left and goes up towards the mantelpiece.</i>] Oh, -when he gets you alone! [<i>Mrs. Fell turns slowly and -looks toward Ritter, with a roguish expression and a -measured shaking of her finger at him.</i>] He’s going to -tell you you were the loveliest thing that ever stepped -on a stage. If he hasn’t done so already. Have you, -Frederick? [<i>She looks at him with a mischievous eye.</i>] -Have you? [<i>He laughs, at the irony of the situation. -She crosses towards him.</i>] Come on, ’fess up!—I know -the position is difficult! [<i>He laughs hard, and she -laughs with him; then turns back to Mrs. Ritter. Jenny -comes in from the right hallway.</i>] You see, my dear, -the man is so pleased he can’t talk! [<i>She sees Jenny -passing along the hallway and steps quickly up to the -center-door.</i>] Oh, Jenny dear! Will you take these -violets out and put them in some water.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> [<i>Taking the violets</i>] Yes, mam. [<i>Mrs. -Pampinelli enters at the left door, with a glass of -water.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I’m afraid they’ll be all withered.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[189]</a></span> -[<i>Jenny continues on into the left hallway. Mrs. Fell -turns around into the room again.</i>] Where’s Mrs. P.? -[<i>Sees Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] Oh, there you are! I was just -wondering where you were.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Crossing above the table at -the left, towards Mrs. Ritter</i>] Did you get the smelling-salts, -Jenny?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Jenny.</span> Yes, mam, I gave them to Mrs. Ritter. -[<i>She goes out at the left hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Yes, Betty, I have them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Coming a step or two forward</i>] Well, -Betty, you see we managed to get them all here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Back of the table below the -piano, and at Mrs. Ritter’s left</i>] Here, try and drink -this, Paula. [<i>Mrs. Ritter takes the water and tries -to drink it; and Mrs. Pampinelli leans solicitously -over her. There is a pause.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Coming anxiously down at Mrs. Ritter’s -left</i>] What’s the matter?—[<i>She looks at Mrs. -Pampinelli.</i>] Is Paula sick?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Straightening up, and very imperiously</i>] -The <i>critic</i>—has been giving his impressions -of our play.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Who? [<i>She turns towards Ritter.</i>] -This critic here, you mean? [<i>She indicates Ritter and -then looks at Mrs. Pampinelli. Mrs. Pampinelli inclines -her head, with the suggestion of a derisive smile, -and passes up to the center-door. Mrs. Fell crosses</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[190]</a></span> -<i>quickly towards Ritter.</i>] What have you been saying, -Frederick Ritter?—Huh?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Laying the glass of water down on -the table</i>] Oh, what does it matter, Nelly, what he’s -been saying!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Turning sharply to Mrs. Ritter</i>] -What?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Trying not to cry</i>] I say—I say -[<i>She bursts into tears.</i>] I say what does it matter what -he’s been saying!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It doesn’t matter in the least, as far -as I’m concerned—[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli turns at the -center-door and comes forward slowly in the middle -of the room.</i>] there’s only one thing he <i>could</i> say, if -he told the truth.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Laying her hand on Mrs. -Fell’s left arm</i>] Eleanor, dear child,—husbands are -not always particular about telling the truth—where -the abilities of their wives are concerned. If <i>I</i> had listened -to the promptings of my own soul, instead of -to my husband, when I was a younger woman, I should -in all probability be one of the leading figures in the -American Theatre today. But I was fool enough, -like a lot of other women, to believe that my husband -had my welfare at heart,—when the fact of the matter -was, as I see it now, when it’s too late,—he was -simply jealous of my artistic promise. [<i>The cuckoo-clock -strikes the midnight hour. Ritter turns and -looks up at it, then glances at Mrs. Pampinelli. She</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[191]</a></span> -<i>is looking up at the clock distrustfully. Mrs. Fell -raises her eyes discreetly to it, then drops them to the -floor.</i>] Why, the night I played Hazel Kirke, I had -my best friends in tears: yet, when I returned from -the hall, and the entire town of Cohoes ringing with -my name,—my husband had the effrontery to tell me -that I was so terrific he was obliged to leave the hall -before the end of the first act. So,—[<i>She turns to -Mrs. Ritter.</i>] if this gentleman here has set himself -up as your critic, Paula,—remember <i>my</i> story,—the -actress without honor in her own house. [<i>She sweeps -across below the piano to the window.</i>] Is my car out -here, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Moving over a bit towards Mrs. -Ritter</i>] Yes, it’s there. I told Matthew he needn’t -bother coming back for me, that you’d take me home. -[<i>Mrs. Ritter begins to cry softly, and Mrs. Fell steps -to her left and puts her hand on her shoulder.</i>] Don’t -do that, Paula. [<i>She turns sharply and goes towards -Ritter.</i>] What was the matter with that performance, -Frederick Ritter?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Over at the left, below the mantelpiece</i>] -Why, they didn’t even know their lines!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Straightening up abruptly and -looking at him, reproachfully</i>] Oh!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning sharply from the -window</i>] That is a falsehood! They ran over every -line last night, right here in this room,—and -they knew—practically all of them.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[192]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What good was that, if they couldn’t remember -them on the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>To Ritter</i>] I <i>could</i> remember them -on the stage! [<i>Turning to Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] I never -missed <i>one</i> line!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Ritter</i>] They <i>could</i> remember -them on the stage!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] Not a line.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She and that other woman sat there blinking -at the audience like a couple of sparrow-hawks.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> They did nothing of the kind.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Of course they didn’t!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Speaking directly to Mrs. Fell</i>] How do -you know? <i>You</i> weren’t out there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I could see them through the scenery, -couldn’t I? And they didn’t look anything <i>like</i> a -couple of sparrow-hawks,—as you say.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Contemptuously</i>] Well, as I -have never seen a couple of sparrow-hawks, I cannot -appreciate the comparison.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, you’d have seen a couple tonight, -if you’d been with me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Oh, don’t argue with him, Betty! -He’s only trying to be smart.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why didn’t one of them <i>say</i> something?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What could they have said?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, any commonplace! It’d have been<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[193]</a></span> -better than just sitting there blinking. [<i>Mrs. Ritter -weeps.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> One can’t be commonplace in -high comedy.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Was that what it was?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Bitterly</i>] What did you <i>think</i> -it was?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning and going up to the center-door</i>] -<i>You</i> tell her, Nelly; I haven’t got the heart.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Moving a little towards the right</i>] -You bold thing. [<i>Nelly is wearing the gown she wore -in the preceding act, and a heavy cloak of old-rose-colored -velvet. She lays her hand on Mrs. Ritter’s -left shoulder.</i>] Don’t let him upset you this way, -Paula. [<i>There is a little pause. Ritter turns at the -center-door and comes forward again at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Picking up her fan from the -piano</i>] I suppose <i>you</i> would have eclipsed Edwin Booth, -if <i>you</i> had been up there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, I’d have known better than to sit -there blinking at the audience.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning sharply to him</i>] I didn’t -<i>blink</i> at the audience.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Don’t answer him, honey.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What could they have done -under the circumstances?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, they could have covered it up!—if -they’d had any brains.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Covered it up with <i>what</i>?</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[194]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Why, with anything! Impromptu conversation! -[<i>Mrs. Fell looks at Mrs. Pampinelli and -smiles pityingly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And have the audience <i>laugh</i> -at them?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> They laughed anyhow, didn’t they?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Taking a step or two towards him</i>] -That was not their fault!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>To Nelly</i>] Whose fault <i>was it</i>?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Imperiously, and moving over -to a point above the table at which Mrs. Ritter is sitting</i>] -It was Mr. Spindler’s fault.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Mr. Spindler.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> He promised to attend to the -various properties and he did <i>not</i> attend to them.—There -was supposed to be a pen and ink on the desk -for Mrs. Rush to leave a note for Doctor Arlington;—and -when Paula sat down to write the note, there -was no pen—and no ink. So she simply had to go -on sitting there until Mr. Spearing went off and got -them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I thought he’d left town.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Oh, he wasn’t gone so very long, -Frederick Ritter!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Bitterly, to Mrs. Fell</i>] Not -five minutes.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I thought the show’ud be over before he’d -get back.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> The door wouldn’t open when<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[195]</a></span> -he attempted to go back, so he was obliged to go around -to the other side. [<i>She illustrates the circumstance -by waving her fan in a circular gesture about the -table. Ritter bursts out laughing. Nelly glares at -him, then looks to Mrs. Pampinelli, who, with a deadly, -level look, turns and moves haughtily up towards the -center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What happened to the skinny guy’s mustache, -that it kept falling off every other line?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to him, up near the -center-door</i>] It only fell off twice, don’t exaggerate. -[<i>Ritter laughs again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> You bold thing!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> How many times was it <i>supposed</i> to fall -off?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, what if it fell off a dozen -times,—everybody knew it wasn’t real! [<i>He roars.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It’s a lucky thing for you, Frederick -Ritter, that you’re not <i>my</i> husband!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Quietly</i>] That goes both ways, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Moving across towards him</i>] Well,—when -you do something that you’ll get so many flowers -that my limousine will have to make three trips to -get them to the various hospitals,—we may pay more -attention to what you have to say. [<i>She turns away -and moves back towards the center of the room, where -Mrs. Pampinelli is just moving forward from the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I suppose most of the audience have gone<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[196]</a></span> -with the flowers, haven’t they? [<i>Nelly whirls round -to retort, but Mrs. Pampinelli lays a restraining hand -upon her right arm.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With immortal authority</i>] -Don’t answer him, Eleanor—“Envy loves a lofty -mark.” The next time we have a part that calls for -a very limited intelligence, we’ll engage Mr. Ritter -for it. [<i>She moves a little down to the right towards -Mrs. Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Looking at Ritter</i>] Now!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Casually</i>] Well, if you do, he’ll know -how to walk across the stage without tripping every -other step.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Who tripped every other step?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Indicating his wife</i>] The weeping-willow -there. [<i>Mrs. Ritter begins to weep afresh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It’s a wonder to me you’re not afraid -to lie so!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She tripped when she first came through -the door! I was looking right at her.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to him</i>] She didn’t -<i>fall</i>, did she?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> No, but it looked for a while there as -though she were going to. [<i>Mrs. Ritter’s weeping becomes -audible again.</i>] I very nearly had heart failure.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Laying her hand on Paula’s -shoulder</i>] Don’t mind him, Paula.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She tripped when she came <i>on</i> the stage,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[197]</a></span> -she tripped when she went <i>off</i>, and she tripped over -the rug when she went over to the desk!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With measured finality</i>] She -didn’t trip any oftener than anybody else. [<i>He laughs.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Directly to Ritter</i>] No, nor half so -often as some of the others,—[<i>Turning towards Mrs. -Pampinelli</i>] now that you speak of it! [<i>She turns and -goes up to the hallway.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I will admit that Mr. Hossefrosse -is a bit unsteady,—but that is due to his weak -ankles.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> What was the star’s unsteadiness due to?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> The rugs!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking at her keenly</i>] What?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter</span> and <span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli</span>, together.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> The rugs.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Moving to the center of the -room</i>] The rugs!</p> - -</blockquote> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Those funny rugs—that they -have down there. We didn’t use them at the rehearsals,—and, -naturally, when it came to the performance,—Paula -wasn’t accustomed to them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> She was accustomed to rugs at home, -wasn’t she?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Tersely</i>] Well, she wasn’t at -home on the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>With a gesture of complete acquiesence, -and moving up towards the center-door</i>] That’s my -argument in a nutshell. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli stands</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[198]</a></span> -<i>frozen in the middle of the room, with an expression -very much as though she were trying mentally to assassinate -him. He comes back down again at the left, -to his former position.</i>] Why, I couldn’t hear <i>two-thirds</i> -of what she said.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, evidently there were many -people there who <i>could</i> hear what she said, for they -laughed at all her points. [<i>She turns and goes to the -piano, where she picks up several roses. Mrs. Fell -comes forward through the center-door and down towards -the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I wanted to laugh, too, but I was afraid -somebody’d turn around and <i>see</i> me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning to Mrs. Ritter</i>] Are -you ready, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Yes, I’m ready.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Are you going, Betty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Yes, I must, darling, it’s getting -late. [<i>She places her hand on Mrs. Ritter s -shoulder.</i>] Good night, dear. [<i>She passes up towards -the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Good night, Betty.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Laying her hand on Mrs. Ritter’s -shoulder</i>] Good night, Paula child.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Good night, Nelly. [<i>Nelly follows -Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Stopping in the center-door -and turning to Ritter</i>] Perhaps, at our <i>next</i> performance,—Mr. -Ritter will favor us with the benefit of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[199]</a></span> -some of his suggestions. [<i>She regards him with a touch -of lofty amusement. He turns his head towards her -and looks at her with a kind of mischievous squint.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Quite pleasantly</i>] There aren’t going to -be any more performances, Mrs. Pampinelli, as far as -anybody in <i>this</i> house is concerned.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>After a steady pause</i>] No? -[<i>He inclines his head in quiet emphasis.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Not until there’s a change in the management. -[<i>There is another taut pause.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Coldly</i>] Really? [<i>He inclines -his head again.</i>] Then, I’m afraid we sha’n’t have -you with us, Mr. Ritter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Smiling</i>] I know very well you won’t -have <i>me</i> with you. And as far as Mrs. Ritter’s concerned,—she’s -got a very good home here—and I love -her; and any time she feels any dramatic instinct coming -on, there’s a very nice roomy attic upstairs, and she can -go up there and lock the door, and nobody’ll ever see -or hear her. But if she ever gets mixed up again in -anything like that atrocity I saw tonight,—I’m -through. [<i>He speaks the last words with quiet definiteness, -and turns towards the door at the left.</i>] And -she’ll get killed in the bargain. [<i>He hits the door open -with the palm of his hand and goes out. There is a -slight pause: then Nelly Fell crosses quickly towards -the mantelpiece, addressing Ritter as she goes.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Why, Fred Ritter!—I’ve heard you<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[200]</a></span> -say yourself that you were in <i>favor</i> of a Little Theatre -in this city!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Coming in again through the door at the -left, carrying his overcoat, derby and scarf</i>] So I am! -I say so again. [<i>He stops inside the door.</i>] But in the -light of that cataclysm tonight, you’ll pardon me if I -add, that I do not see the connection.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Stepping forward to the middle -of the room and challenging him with a lift of her -head and brows</i>] What did you <i>expect</i> to <i>see</i>, Mr. Ritter,—a -finished performance from a group of comparative -amateurs?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I expected to see something almost as bad -as what I saw;—that’s the reason I <i>fainted</i> last night -and was unconscious for twenty-four hours at the prospect -of it. [<i>He turns to Mrs. Fell and speaks quite -colloquially.</i>] And that’s the first time in my life I’ve -ever fainted. [<i>Nelly just gives him a look and turns -her head away.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Don’t mind him, Betty,—he’s only -trying to show off.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With bitter amusement</i>] No, -but I’m a bit <i>curious</i>—to know just <i>how</i> Mr. Ritter -would expect to <i>accomplish</i> the establishment of a Little -Theatre here, unless through the medium of such performances -as this one this evening. How else is our -local talent to be discovered—or developed?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, I’m equally curious, Mrs. Pampinelli,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[201]</a></span> -as to your exact <i>qualifications</i>—as a discoverer or -developer of talent for the theatre.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> That is a very familiar attitude. -People who <i>do</i> things—are constantly having -their ability to do them called into question. [<i>She -moves a step further forward and towards Mrs. Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> I’m afraid that’s something you’ve read -somewhere. [<i>She glares at him.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> The theatre is a matter of instinct.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> The theatre is a matter of qualifications,—the -same as any other profession; and it will only be -<i>through</i> those particular qualifications that your Little -Theatre will ever be brought about. [<i>He crosses over -in front of Mrs. Fell and up towards the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Well, perhaps you will come to -the rescue;—you seem so familiar with the various -necessities of the Little Theatre. [<i>He stops, just to -the left of the center-door, and looks at Mrs. Pampinelli -straight.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Quietly</i>] I am also familiar, Mrs. Pampinelli, -with a little remark that Mr. Napoleon made -on one occasion, a long time ago;—about the immorality -of assuming a position for which one is unqualified. -[<i>There is a pause,—he settles his coat on his -arm, then moves slowly out through the center-door -into the hallway: while Mrs. Pampinelli, with an expression</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[202]</a></span> -<i>of eternal exclusion, moves over between the -piano and the table towards the window.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning</i>] Fred Ritter, where are -you going?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Lighting his cigar in the hallway, just -outside the center-door</i>] I haven’t the faintest idea. -But I shouldn’t be surprised if I’d go on the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Standing back of the arm-chair at -the left</i>] One star is enough in the family.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Bowing very graciously to her</i>] Applause—[<i>She -turns away and looks straight ahead. Then -Ritter bows towards Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>] and great -laughter—[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli isn’t looking at him, but -she knows that that is meant for her, so she simply -moves another step or two towards the window. Mrs. -Ritter turns to see what Ritter is doing. He takes a -step and leans forward towards her, speaking rather -confidentially.</i>] followed by booing. [<i>She turns back -again and starts to cry, while he continues out into the -right hallway and up the stairs. As he mounts the stairs, -he holds aloft his lighted cigar, after the fashion of a -zealous bearer of the torch.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Picking up the orchids from -the table below the window</i>] Paula, you should have -Jenny put these orchids in water; they keep ever so long -in a cool place. [<i>She comes across towards the left, -below the piano.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Will you call her, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Crossing to meet Mrs. Pampinelli</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[203]</a></span> -Give them to me, Betty, I’ll take them out to her. -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli gives her the orchids.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Tell her to put them in a cool -place. [<i>Nelly starts up for the center-door. The telephone-bell -rings.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Will you answer that, Nelly?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Setting the orchids down on the chair -in the left hallway</i>] Certainly, darling.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing back of Mrs. Ritter’s -chair</i>] If it’s anything concerning the play, I shall be -at home on Tuesday at two.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>At the telephone</i>] Yes?—Yes?—Who?—Oh,—well, -wait just one moment, please.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What is it?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Holding the transmitter against her -bosom and leaning over the partition towards Mrs. -Pampinelli</i>] It’s the Star Moving Picture Company.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> What do they want?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> They want the address of Mrs. Ritter’s -manager. [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli gives a quick look at Mrs. -Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Ritter</i>] I anticipated -this. [<i>She goes quickly towards the center-door, -laying her fan and roses on the left partition-seat, as -she passes out into the hallway.</i>] Give it to me, Nelly. -[<i>Nelly hands her the telephone, and, picking up the orchids -from the chair, tiptoes back of Mrs. Pampinelli -and in through the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>In an excited whisper to Mrs. Ritter</i>]<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[204]</a></span> -What did I tell you! [<i>She giggles nervously, shakes -her finger at Mrs. Ritter, and then watches Mrs. Pampinelli -eagerly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Hello-hello—This -is Mrs. Ritter’s manager speaking. Mrs. -Pampinelli. Pampinelli. Mrs. J. <i>Duro</i> Pampinelli. -Capital P—a—m, p—i—n, e—double l—i.—Correct. -Yes—I see—I see.—Well, how do you mean, a thousand -dollars, a thousand dollars a day, or a thous—I -see. Well, just one moment, please. [<i>She lowers the -telephone and leans towards Mrs. Ritter, speaking in -a subdued tone.</i>] The Star Moving Picture Company -wants to know if Mrs. Ritter will appear in a special -production of tonight’s play before the camera.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Narrowing her left eye</i>] What’s the -figure?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> One thousand dollars per week.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Definitely</i>] Fifteen hundred.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Hello-hello!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Rising</i>] Maybe I’d better talk to -them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Suggesting with a gesture that she -be quiet and resume her chair</i>] Please, dear. [<i>Mrs. -Ritter meekly sits down again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Why, I’m -sorry,—but Mrs. Ritter does not appear under fifteen -hundred dollars per week.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Watching her shrewdly</i>] Net! [<i>Mrs.</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[205]</a></span> -<i>Pampinelli turns and looks at her sharply, and Nelly -emphasizes what she said by inclining her head: then -Mrs. Pampinelli speaks into the telephone again.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Net.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] It’s a bargain -at that. [<i>She nods towards Mrs. Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into telephone</i>] Twelve-fifty?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> No compromise.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into telephone</i>] Well, just -one moment. [<i>Covering the transmitter and speaking -to Mrs. Fell</i>] Twelve-fifty is offered.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Definitely</i>] Fifteen hundred dollars. -They’ll lift it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Turning back to the telephone</i>] -Why, I’m very sorry,—but Mrs. Ritter positively -does not appear under fifteen hundred dollars. -[<i>Nelly inclines her head towards her.</i>] Net. Well, how -do you mean satisfactory? Satisfactory at our figure? -[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli glances at Mrs. Fell and Mrs. Fell -glances at Mrs. Ritter.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>To Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] Sign!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Very well, -then,—signed at fifteen hundred dollars per week,—</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Net!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Into the telephone</i>] Net! And -Mrs. Ritter appears. [<i>She stands holding the telephone -and listening.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Whirling round and teetering down -to Paula</i>] Our STAR! I always said it! [<i>She shakes</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[206]</a></span> -<i>Mrs. Ritter by the shoulders.</i>] I always said it! [<i>She -whirls round and teeters up towards the center-door.</i>] -Haven’t I always said it, Betty? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -is listening on the telephone, and tries, by dint of thrusting -the telephone towards Nelly, to silence her. But -Nelly is irrepressible.</i>] That it was only a question of -time? [<i>She turns and flies down towards Mrs. Ritter -again.</i>] We must telephone Mrs. Livingston at once, -Paula!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Be quiet, Nelly, be quiet!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Rushing up towards the center-door -again</i>] She’ll be so interested! We must call up Mrs. -Livingston right away, Betty!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Please, Nelly! [<i>Nelly is silenced. -Mrs. Pampinelli listens sharply, Nelly and -Mrs. Ritter watching her; and there is a dead pause.</i>] -Beg pardon? [<i>There is another slight pause; and then -Mrs. Pampinelli utters an abrupt shriek and sets down -the telephone.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> What is it, Betty? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli -looks at her, then straight ahead.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>With venomous enunciation</i>] -It’s Ritter! [<i>Mrs. Ritter rises slowly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Ritter? [<i>Mrs. Pampinelli doesn’t -stir.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Addressing Mrs. Pampinelli</i>] Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I recognized his voice. [<i>She -moves along the left hallway and comes in through the</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[207]</a></span> -<i>center-door and forward, a little to the left of the center -of the room.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Up just to the right of the center-door</i>] -Why, where is he?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Beginning to cry</i>] He must be on -the extension upstairs. [<i>Nelly listens keenly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> It is he; I hear him laughing. [<i>She -crosses down to the door at the left.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Taking a step towards Mrs. -Ritter</i>] Sit down, Paula. [<i>Mrs. Ritter sits down, -rests her elbows on the table and weeps bitterly. Nelly -stops over at the door and turns.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Positively</i>] Paula,—if he were <i>my</i> -husband, I should lose no time in having him arrested. -[<i>She goes out, at the left door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> [<i>Standing back of Mrs. Ritter’s -chair</i>] Paula dear, I do hope that you are not going -to allow Mr. Ritter’s flippancies to discourage you. -[<i>Paula clasps her hands in her lap and looks tearfully at -the backs of them.</i>] The way of the essential artist is -always hard; and so very frequently the most serious -obstacles are those to be encountered at home.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But, I feel so unsuccessful.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> I know, dear—I know exactly -how you feel. But you must <i>go on</i>. Just remember -that art is the highest expression of truth,—and you -cannot fail. For you have everything in your favor, -Paula.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Weakly</i>] Thank you.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[208]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And the masses need you, dear; -you are an altogether <i>new note</i> in the theatre.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But—I don’t know whether Fred’ll -<i>want</i> me to go on any more—[<i>Mrs. Pampinelli suddenly -becomes very still and stoney, and looks down at -Mrs. Ritter with merciless inquiry. Mrs. Ritter senses -the change and turns hastily to explain.</i>] the way he -spoke.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> And, do you mean that you -will allow him to <i>stop</i> you, Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Breaking down under Mrs. Pampinelli’s -frozen amusement</i>] Well, of course, he’s my -<i>husband</i>, Betty. [<i>She cries. Mrs. Pampinelli regards -her with a kind of pained toleration; and settles her -cloak, preparatory to going.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Pampinelli.</span> Very well, then, Paula—if you -feel that way about it, I should advise you to keep -him; and I shan’t waste any more of my time encouraging -you. [<i>She sweeps around to her left and up towards -the center-door.</i>] There are far too many who -are only too <i>willing</i> to make the necessary sacrifices -without being urged. [<i>She picks up her fan and roses -from the partition-seat, lays them across her left arm, -and turns regnantly to Mrs. Ritter.</i>] Only remember -this, Paula,—there will be actresses when husbands are -a thing of the past. [<i>She sweeps out through the center-door -and out into the right hallway. There is a -slight pause; then Nelly Fell comes in at the left door. -She misses Mrs. Pampinelli.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[209]</a></span><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Where is Mrs. P., Paula?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> She’s just gone out to the car, Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Stooping to pick up one of the chrysanthemums -from the floor</i>] Do you mind if I take one -of these flowers, Paula? [<i>She stands in the middle of -the room, holding it, and looking at Mrs. Ritter.</i>] I -want it for my dramatic shrine.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> You can take them all if you like.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Why, what would <i>you</i> do, dear?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I don’t want them.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Crossing towards her</i>] Now, you -mustn’t feel like that, Paula Ritter.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Having all she can do to keep from -crying</i>] I just can’t help it.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> I see in your husband’s attitude—nothing -but a desperate attempt to save his home;—for -he <i>must</i> know what your performance tonight will -inevitably lead to. [<i>Mrs. Ritter turns with a puzzled -expression and looks at her.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I don’t understand what you mean, -Nelly.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Why, you must go to New York, dear; -you can do nothing dramatically here.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But, I have a husband.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> [<i>Very casually</i>] Every married woman -has that cross, darling. But you mustn’t let it stand -in the way of your career; he would very soon eliminate -<i>you</i>, if you stood in the way of <i>his</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But, I don’t like the thought of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[210]</a></span> -breaking up his home, Nelly. [<i>Nelly gives a hard, -knowing little laugh.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Don’t be unnecessarily sacrificial, darling. -I made that mistake with my first <i>two</i> husbands; -but I was <i>wiser</i> with the third. And I said to him, -immediately we returned from the church, I said, -“Now, Leonard, you and I have just been made one; -and <i>I</i> am that one.” [<i>She touches herself on the breastbone -with her forefinger, then touches Paula on the -left shoulder.</i>] And it worked out beautifully. So be -sensible, darling. [<i>She skips up towards the hallway.</i>] -I must run along, Mrs. Pampinelli’s waiting! [<i>She -teeters out through the center-door into the right hallway.</i>] -Cheerio, Paula darling!</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Good night.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Fell.</span> Cheerio! [<i>She giggles and vanishes into -the right hallway. Mrs. Ritter sits still for a second, -looking from side to side, at nothing, particularly, -and presently gets up. The horseshoe of “SUCCESS” -over in front of the mantelpiece catches her eye, and -she wanders slowly towards it. But the irony of it all -overcomes her and she commences to cry again. Ritter -appears at the head of the stairs and starts down. She -turns and looks at him, as he comes through the center-door.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Fred Ritter, those women will never -come inside that door again, the way you talked to -them. [<i>He moves to the piano and leans against it.</i>]</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[211]</a></span><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Well, I don’t suppose that’ll make very -much difference.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking straight ahead</i>] Well, it -<i>should</i> make a difference.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> They’d hardly come here to see <i>me</i>, anyway.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Well, they’d come to see me.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> But <i>you</i> won’t be here. [<i>She turns and -looks at him blankly.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Why,—what—what do you mean, I -won’t be here?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>With a touch of delicacy</i>] Why, aren’t you -going on with <i>The Work</i>?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Well, I don’t want to go unless you -<i>want</i> me to.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> But, I <i>do</i> want you to. I don’t think a -talent like yours should be hidden; [<i>He looks straight -out, thoughtfully.</i>] it’s too unique.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> I thought you said a while ago you -didn’t like me?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Raising his left hand and crossing over and -down in front of her towards the arm-chair at the -left</i>] You mustn’t hold me responsible for what I said -a while ago—[<i>He stops back of the arm-chair and -rests his hand upon the back of it.</i>] I was panic-stricken -at the thought of having my home broken up. [<i>She -moves down to the center of the room.</i>] But I’ve been -thinking it over upstairs, and I’ve concluded that it’s<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[212]</a></span> -more important that the world should see you act, than -that I should have a home to come to.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> But, I don’t like the thought of -breaking up your home, Fred.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Raising his right hand to her with a touch -of solemnity</i>] You mustn’t consider me in the matter -at all, dear. Every great gift has its victim—and I am, -in a way, rather happy—to find myself chosen the victim -of yours.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> What would <i>you</i> do, if I were to go?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>With the faintest shade of classic pose</i>] -I’d go with you; you’d need someone to look after the -flowers—see that they got to the various hospitals all -right.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking away out</i>] I might not like -it, after I’d get there.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> Maybe not. I suppose fame becomes monotonous -like everything else. But, I wouldn’t want -you in the future, to look back and feel that I had -stood in your way.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Carefully</i>] No, Fred,—I really don’t -<i>know</i> whether I want to be a great actress or not.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> But, you are a great actress, dear.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> Thank you.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Indicating the anchor of roses down at the -left</i>] Look at this anchor,—of hope. [<i>He steps back -and picks up the horseshoe.</i>] And this horseshoe of -“SUCCESS.” [<i>He brings it forward and sets it -down just to Mrs. Ritter’s left. Then he steps across</i><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[213]</a></span> -<i>in front of it, takes her hand and slips his right arm -around her waist.</i>] And I think, Paula, it might be a -very sensible move, to just let the public <i>remember</i> you -as a great actress—as they saw you <i>tonight</i>—<i>at your -best</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Looking wistfully straight ahead</i>] -Do you think they <i>will</i> remember, Fred?</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Ritter.</span> [<i>Inclining his head, with a suggestion of the -obsequious</i>] Yes, I <i>think</i> they will. [<i>Curtain.</i>]</p> - -<p><span class="smcap">Mrs. Ritter.</span> [<i>Turning and sinking into his arms</i>] -You’re awfully sweet, Fred.</p> - - -<p class="center">THE END OF THE PLAY</p> - - - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<div class="transnote"> -<p class="ph2">TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:</p> - - -<p>Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.</p> - -<p>Inconsistencies in typesetting have been standardized.</p> - -<p>The cover image for this eBook was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p> -</div> - - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Torch-Bearers, by George Kelly - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TORCH-BEARERS *** - -***** This file should be named 60523-h.htm or 60523-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/0/5/2/60523/ - -Produced by Tim Lindell, David E. 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