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J. DUFF HENDERSON.

I* '

THE NINETEENTH CENTURY STORY

„/ ALVIRA

{\^ f Alias

OREA

J. DUFF HENDERSON.

Author of " TlLe Knight, Hermit and Man,'" etc.

Toronto

THE HUNTER, ROSE CO., LIMITED

1899

69487

//'-^^/-■'■a/.'/o.-V?,

Entered according: to the Act of the Parh'ament of Canada, in the year
one thousand eight hundred and ninety-nine, by J. Duff Henderson,
at the Department ot Agriculture.

PREFACE

Alvira Dunbar was a young girl, belonging to
industrious parents, who, by perseverence, gave
their young daughter a musical education in
pianoforte technic. They sent her to a musical
conscxvatory, where she made great progress
in her studies, which drew the attention of
the noble, benevolent Duchess of Davenport,
who, at spare times, visited the pupils in the
conservatory.

The Duchess noticed this wonderful performer
on the pianoforte, which greatly astonished her,
that she made the young wonder a proposal to
send her to Leipsic, Germany, to be educated by
higher and more worthy celebrated teachers.

Young Alvira decided to accept her offer
should her parents be agreeable. So the Du-
chess visited her parents and received their con-
sent to take her to Leipsic, which the Duchess
accomplished, and left Alvira Dunbar in charge
of a most renowned professor, who took great
interest in Alvira after hearing her play.

< •

ALVIRA, ALIAS OREA.

jN the first of January, 1898, there went
forth sixteen young ladies, averaging
in ages from twelve to eighteen years ;
some went to Leipsic, Germany, others to differ-
ent parts on the continent of Europe. These
young ladies were born in London, that great
metropole in England where the wealthiest
English aristocrats reside. All were educated in
music, both vocal and instrumental. While at-
tending the largest musical conservatory in
Cambridge, they captured all the highest de-
grees ; but one of the sixteen, Alvira, a bright
young lady just thirteen years old, captured
first-class honors. It was by perseverance and
economy on the part of her parents that she re-
ceived her musical education. She was a perse-
vering student, surpassing all her companions,
which caused jealousy between them, although
it annoyed her very much.

At this time the English Duchess Davenport,
that knew her ability, made a proposition to
send her to Leipsic, Germany, to complete her
musical education at her expense.

This kind offer was accepted by Alvira with
the greatest satisfaction. The Duchess Daven-

6 Alvira, alias Orea.

port prepared her for that occasion, went with
her to Leipsic, left her in the most historical
musical college in that great city. She succeed-
ed beyond the Duchess Davenport's expecta-
tion — her clearness of technic and ability being
pronounced the greatest success during the
musical season, where congregate the most ex-
pert musical critics. All were completely over-
whelmed and amazed at her success, remarking
that she had a brilliant future before her. The
good Duchess Davenport made preparations to
bring her out at some of the capitals in Europe.
To facilitate her desire she engaged an agent
named Alfred Tiemble to proceed to Leipsic and
arrange her tour throughout Europe.

In the meantime the other fifteen young
ladies departed to different parts of the continent
of Europe, where they completed their musical
education ; some of them might have returned
to London, others may have stayed in Europe.
Those who returned to London took part in the
festivities of that great capital, where amuse-
ments predominate, where they may pass a few
years in gaieties congenial to their desires, then
die unknown and forgotten by their former
associates.

I trust it shall not be so ; that some of the
fifteen may lead a noble life, obeying God's com-
mand in any sphere they may occupy on this
earth, which will redoun to their credit in the
day they stand before the great Judge of all.

Alvira, alias Orea. 7

The agent, Alfred Tremble, on leaving London
for Leipsie, at his parting the Duchess Daven-
port gave liiin two thousand pounds to defray
Alvira's and his own expenses. All the Duch-
ess Davenport desired was Alvira's success; then
she would be satisfied.

So Alfred Tremble departs from London and
proceeds to Leipsie. Arriving there, he r<si<les
at a private hotel, where he writes and de-
spatches a letter to Alvira. Enclosed in this
letter is one from the Duchess Davenport to
Alvira. He also forwards his address to her,
desiring her to call on him, as he has business of
iuiportance to relate.

After transacting his business he picks up a
daily paper to read the news of the day and to
pass the time until her arrival, when, behold ! he
is astonished and surprised as he reads the fol-
lowing lines: "Alvira, the pride of the Duchess
Davenport, the star of the season in Leipsie, and
will be of all Europe shortly ; her proficiency in
Art bewilders the great multitude that listen to
her. She is the coming star undoubtedly,
great-r than any former artist ever was."

Alfred Tremble, after he reads the account of
her success, throws the paper from him and
lies back on his couch meditating seriously. At
last he mumbles to himself: "I must thwart
the Duchess Davenport; she expects to derive
the benefit of this great star on the horizon.

8 Alvira, alias Orea.

Now, I have been striving for years to make a
fortune and win fame. Now my star is in the
ascendant. Tliis will replenish me for my past
failures. My opportunity has come; I cannot
afford to lose it. To business I will now pro-
ceed. She wi'l arrive here shortly. She, under-
standing the Duchess Davenport's letter that I
am to be her future instructor and manager,
abiding to my commands, even to the changing
of her name, also become a boy, then our for-
tunes will be made, and not the Duchess Daven-
port's. That is my plan in a nutshell. I'll work
it out carefully, there is not the least doubt," he
replies.

Here she comes, to her I'll be attentive. A
valet escorts her to his sitting room, he meeting
her at the entrance.

" You are Miss Alvira, Duchess Davenport's
friend ? "

" Yes, sir, and you are Mr. Alfred Tremble, my
future instructor, are you not ? "

" Yes, Miss Alvira, that is my fortunate posi-
tion. Will you please now be seated ? as I
have to enlighten you into what the Duchess
Davenport requires in regard to your new
career, she having permission from your father
in reference to what I am going to relate. It may
surprise you a little, however, when you com-
prehend the advantage you will derive from
the change ; you will think as the Duchess

Alvira, alias Orea. 9

Davenport and myself tliinks, about it being
better for our welfare, that is yours and mine,
also the Duchess Davenport's. Now, I will
relate the object in view,

" Miss Alvira, as a lady pianist, your career
would be short, and there would be no money in
it even for yourself.

" The Duchess Davenport, before I departed
from London, informed me of her husband's
extravagance and dissipation, also sayinrr it
would throw them into bankruptcy, and they
would lose their great estate, she herself will
then be in poverty. By your aid you can save
her from poverty."

"Tell me instantly how I can do that, Mr.
Tremble, and I will do it at once," remarks Alvira.
"So will I. Here is the project— you and I must
change our names, you to disguise as a young
man, you will bea greater star than the celebrated
Paderewski, who made three fortunes in three
seasons. What think you of this, Alvira ? "

" Well, I'm willing doing as you desire. This
was the Duchess Davenport's wish, in her letter
to me, that you sent to the Conservatory— here
it is:

Then, Alvira, you are a willing partner in this
transaction, which you will never regret. I will
now instruct you. Go to your Conservatory, ask
permission from your principal to accompany a
dear friend of yours on a voyage on the Rhine,

Alvira, alias Orea.

that you will be absent one month ; he will grant
your request. When we depart it will be to
France, where you will revert to male attire and
arrogate another name, I doing the same, then
departing from France to St. Petersburg, where
you will ap[)ear as the greatest " Orea," I being
your manager, " Don Rosario," where I bring you
out as the most celebrated pianist of the present
century.' "

The principal of Leipsic Conservatory and his
staff of teachers were astounded, disappointed, at
the absence of Miss Alvira, and in not returning
at the end of the month, as she promised at her
departure, they waiting patiently for week.s for
her return. No account came from her, they be-
came very impatient about her, and began to
make inquiries all over Germany, but no informa-
tion about her could tliey discern, this causing
throughout Germany a great sensation.

Alvira, the rising and popular star gone we
know not where — lost to the world a precious
treasure. O ! such a misfortune to the good,
benevolent Duchess Davenport, who lavished
wealth on her. This will add to her other mis-
fortunes that came upon her by the Duke's dis-
sipations.

Things look dark, indeed ; no prospect of her
returning with the friend who took her away.
They may have gone and married, went to an-
other country to reside — we will never hear of

Alvira, alias Orea.

them any more. The Duchess Davenport obtains
ingratitude for gratitude — such is the world and
the world's ways. This youn^ artist's career
wrecked and destroyed her victims, her parents,
the Duchess Davenport, also the public who
expected great things of her.

Orea and Don Rosario arrive in the great
city of St. Petersburg, the capital of Russia,
a middle-aged man, also a young man. They
seem to be strangers by their customs and ap-
pearance ; they desire to be escorted to a private
hotel, whither they proceed with a guard, where
they both register, the elder man registering
as Don Rosario, musical instructor and man-
ager, the other Orea, the greatest pianist.
They remain there privately for some time, are
respected by all, who are astonished with the
biilliancy of music which Orea brings forth
from the pianoforte. The business of the hotel
increased till there was no vacancy in the estab-
lishment ; thousands congregate to welcome the
great impressario, he being visited by the Empe-
ror and Empress and invited to play at their
palace, Orea accepting and thanking their Majes-
ties.

There in the winter palace, surrounded by the
elite of all Russia, sat the greatest artist in
musical creation, unknown till now, a stranger
to the thousands surrounding him. Well might
he be astonished at this sudden elevation. Don

Alvira, alias Orea.

Rosario, his instructor, feared it would affect his
nerves and beseeched the lar^e assembly to cease
their kind applause, as his young artist was un-
accustomed to his surroundinn;s ; " give no great
applause, let peace prevail." Death silence
reigned as Orea was escorted to a seat in front
of one of the modern celebrated Strauss piano-
fortes. As he ran his slim fingers over the keys
the audience thought it a thunderbolt, astound-
ing them in their quietness.

Then the music went with fury, swaying and
waving like the lightning on a dark stormy
niiiht.

The multitude, fearing their surroundings,
stood up in surprise, and gazed at the slim crea-
ture there hidden by the large pianoforte. They
were paralyzed that a mortal being could ever
satisfy their expectation.

Still the music rolls along with smooth uni-
formity, up and down, all about, like a swan
upon the sea. But hark ! hear the thunder.
Stop ! silence reigns supreme.

The vast assembly are all stricken as the per-
former appears before them, bowing modestly,
then returning to his instrument to let it speak
•again to the people.

Then came notes clear and harmonious, float-
ing silently throu<^h the great palace, that draws
from the vast assembly continuous applause.

So astonished are they all at such excellent

Alvira, alias Orea.

ability of the performer, who appears the most
iDsignificant creature living. Still the music
flows on in semi-demiquavers, like a canoe float-
ing up and down on the rippling waves, nothing
to mar the perfect harmony which prevailed.
All the audience sat silent as the grave, wishing
that it would notecase, continuing on forever, but
all things must come to an end ; this great as-
sembly, too, though while life lasts man's mem-
ory will not forget this great occasion where
rapture and amazement fill their hearts with
gladness.

Master Orea and Don Rosario depart from the
great capital of Russia, crowned with honors
and wealth abundant. They proceed to Vienne,
the capital of Greece, by invitation from the
King and Queen, who heard of this marvellous
wonder that's bound to astonish the continent
while on his tour.

Here in this ancient country where poets sing,
where artists toiled and dwelleth, cometh a star
of the first magnitude to awaken the denizens
of this ancient land to be up and striving to re-
gain their ancient eminence in music, art and
chivalry.

Here cometh an artist in instrumental music •
whom they will welcome to Vienne with great
adoration.

He will surprise your nation, give it an en-
thusiasm to move on to greater efibrts in the

Alvira, alias Orea.

future, so that modern Greece will be then as
former ancient Greece waa. Now the star has
come. Vienne is in a bustle, King and Queen,
rich and poor, assemble to welcome him in the
great cathedral of this city. Thousands come
hurrying to occupy the nearest seats to the per-
former, although the prices are excessive, beyond
the reach of the majority.

The King and Queen, surrounded by their es-
cort, occupy the front canopy, then the aristo-
crats come next, the public occupying the re-
maining seats. The time has arrived, so has the
great impressario with hia instructor, who ushers
him to a seat at the pianoforte. The music goes
rippling like water down a river, then rushing
onward down the falls, where the spray evapo-
rates, enclosing all in sweet harmony. The
people are amazed at the execution which brings
forth such melody, wondering how he obtained
his musical knowledge, he being so young and
inexperienced, appearing it may have come
natural to him from infancy. He must have
been born to what he is ; such things do happen
on this earth. I have known other players
just rattle on the keys, they never knew what
music was ; no one could they please.

Here we could live and listen on forever at
the glorious sounds of sweet melody, enveloping
us in mystic shrouds. Oh ! that Vienne could
keep him here forever — it would be a gracious

Alvira, alias Orea.

and benevolent act. Our good King ought to
persuade him to remain with us. We could
support and keep him comfortably all his days,
although it is likely other people will desire to
hear him, take him awpy from us and we'll
never hear of him again.

Oh, hark ! the music stops ; the King arises to
speak. Listen to his remarks. Ladies and
Gentlemen, citizens of Vienne : It is with great
pleasure to the Royal Family, and I am sure to
all the citizens, to welcome back again to us,
this, one of the greatest classical exponents of
the keyboard of the present age. He has given
us pleasure, delight and satisfaction, more than
we ever had before in this celebrated Cathedral,
where we are now assembled. His going forth
from Vienne to other parts of the world, he has
our good wishes for success and prosperity, and
will no doubt be welcomed wherever he appears.
Now, citizens, I will ask him to play our National
/ ithem, then we will retire to meet again in the
future.

The Anthem being played by the great im-
pressario, then sang by the vast audience, it
was a parting to be remembered for a life-time.
So unanimous were the people in his favor,
they following him to the depot with loud and
prolonged applause, crying farewell, then away
he goes, the iron horse bears him on to France.
He arrives in Paris ; thousands greet him and

16 Alvira, alias Orea.

escort him to the great Republican Hotel, where
the President of France and his good lady enter-
tains him.

Exceeding preparations were accomjtlished in
decorating the largest Paris theatre before his
arrival. Eveiy seat in that immense building
was sold at fabulous prices. Never was there
an impressario so honored in Paris before, or I
comprehend will never be again. The excite-
ment was so great as what had transpired in
Russia and Greece. The multitude could not be
controlled, so anxious were they to see such a
celebrated personage who could accomplish on
the keyboard what no other mortal could.
Music written by the greatest of compose) s in
all centres of the world, also music of his own
composition that no one ever heard before. How
strange this gift, given to one young and feminine
looking ; 'tis a marvel we do not understand,

Don Rosario says he has profited out of his
three engagements twenty thousand pounds,
still he proceeds to other centres of Europe, then
to Asia. He will be a millionaire before his
twentieth year.

What will he do with his immense wealth ?
May give it away for charitable purposes, or
found a large musical college likely — do some-
thing to immortalize his life. So he departs,
leaving France for Berlin, Germany, where his
next appearance is to take place. During the

Alvira, alias Orea.

time he appeared before the puMIc, Don Rosario
communicated with tlie Duchess Davenport in
London by an a^rent, who macie inquiries about
her, also found out her circumstances and so
reported to him, he saying she h,.s been reduced
in circumstances, living in a lodging-house in
London. She teaches music to support herself
and son who is attending college.

The Duke's estate is entailed, has to be sold
to the highest bidder, it is so heavily mortgaged ;
his indebtedness which amounted to more than
the mortgage, so there is nothing left for the
Duchess Davenport or his heir, his son, only
the title, the young Duke being placed in an
awkward position. The income from the estate
does not cover the interest on the mortgage,
that's why the estate has to be sold. Whatever
it brings at the sale, the balance, after paying
off the mortgage, will go to annul the Duke's
indebtedness.

This is a crushing blow to the once benevolent
Duchess Davenport, who was ever generous to
the poor and needy. The greater part of her
own wealth she gave to that unfortunate young
girl, whom she sent to Leipsic to finish her
musical education. Her instructor, also, she
gave a large amount to defray both their ex-
penses, she never hearing of them again. They
were supposed to have been drowned in the
Rhine River, Germany, this in England being

18 Alviua, alias Orea.

reported. This caused the Duchess Davenport
sorrow that bioke her completely down, then
she departed to the seaside for one year to revive
her health. Her son, during his vacation from
college, came and spent his time in her company.
These were very sad days for both during the
year. Many amusements he contrived to interest §

her, for to take her mind away from the past,
he telling her stories of his college life, and of
his great prospects when he would be through
college, that she would yet continue to be a
Duchess, and he would support her in that
station. This cast all sadness away from her,
she saw there was somethiug still to live for.
Now that a year has transpired, mother and son
part, she back to her humble abode in London
to resume her music teaching again, he to com-
plete his last term in college, both to remain
patiently until the estate is sold, when there
may be a settlement made that may be to their
advantage.

After the above communication came from
London to Don Rosario, who was in Bei lin at
the time, he was grieved at reading the report
from his agent about the Duchess' changed life
and circumstances. He at once set to work to
rectify the matter, and consulted with Orea as
to the Duchess Davenport's troubles, saying the
Duke's estate was to be sold to pay a mortgage
and his indebtedness, he being dead, and that

Alvira, alias Orea. 19

there would be nothing left to support the Duch-
ess Davenport and her son, who is now in col-
lecre for his last term, after which he expects to
be able to support his mother.

" Now, Orea, hear what I propose : We have
abundance of wealth, and will have much more.
I consider it would be advisable for me to in-
struct my agent in London to proceed instantly
to pay off the mortgnge, also the Duke's indebt-
edness on the Davenport estate, and all who
have claims against it, it being advisable to have
the new deeds made out in your name, Orea—
then you will have possession of it in case pres-
ent success may fail, which it will not, for you
are not in the prime of life; your best days are
to come, that you will t,ee."

" My dear instructor, I am exceedingly grate-
ful at your sensible and wise propos^ition. I
will immediately grant your request. You are
my worthy manager in all my transactions I
trust you tranquilly in all my private business
for you have proved to me most faithfnl and
honest," remarks Orea.

"Orea, I will instruct my agent, after he pur-
chases the estate to place a steward and care-
taker in charge, employ help to get and keep the
estate in good repair, so as to be in proper order
It you ever desire to dwell there, after you think
satisfaction is given to the public, when your
fortune is accomplished."

Alvira, alias Orea.

" Yea, you will be my manager when that's
accomplished. Now, Don Rosario, I desire a
favor from you, tliat is why I ask it, knowing
you will jjrant it. It is this: I wish to send the
Duchess Davenport by your agent, in London, a
present of five thousand pounds ; he can hand it
to her, telling her it is from a friend who has
not forgotten her."

Don Rosario says : " You have forestalled me
in that benevolent purpose, and we will just
double the amount and make it ten thousand
pounds. That will cheer her downcast life, and
she will know it's fiom a friend."

" Don Rosario, I feel so satisfied at your gen-
erosity ; it will be a godsend to her, situated as
she must be. Ask your agent to inform you if
she accepts the gift."

" Yes, Orea, my agent will inform me, then I
will that communicate to you. I will corre-
spond with my agent, give him instructions
about purchasing the Duke's property and pay-
ing the ten thousand pounds to the Duchess
Davenport. He will engage a lawyer, so that
the transfer of the preperty will be according to
the law, the title to be clear of all encumbrance
afterwards deposit it in a trust company for safe
keeping. I will forward him a cheque for the
whole amount through the Bank of England, so
that he may have everything settled up in time
for our satisfaction. This he will do, I have not

Alvira, alias Orea.

the least doubt. Now, Orea, this businesa
completed, you must Jiiake preparations for your
appearance before the German Emperor and
Empress in the great Ciiy Hall, all having been
prepared, and over six thousand seats are en-
gaged, which makes another triumph for you.

" After this engagement we proceed to Austria,
where they are patiently awaiting us, wliere 3 ou
will have your fourth reception ; I expect it to be
as great as all the others were. After that we
visit Denmark, at the King's invitation, then we
return to France to appear in Marseillese. Then
we cross the Channel to England, appearing in
Liverpool, then to Edinburgh, Scotland. From
there we proceed to London, where we retire to
your estate to recruit our energies by taking a
quiet and well-earned rest, away from excitement
of the past season, after you have entertained
half a continent. Now we will go to fulfil our
engagement. Are you ])repared to face the
great critical German audience ?"

" I have not the least fear of appearing be-
fore any audience, no matter how critical tliey
may be, and I am now ready to proceed to the
hall, where I will surprise even you, my mana-
ger," remarks Orea.

" Indeed, Orea do you speak sincerely ? If
you do, I will enjoy your triumph. Come, I'll
guide you to your seat — they are waiting for
your coming. We must now depart to the
hall."

AI.VI1U, ALIAS OrEA.

As they pass by the great multitude, they
speak welcome toOrea, he taking his seat at his
pianoforte; silence reigns supreme as his artistic
touch strikes the keys, then, without a pause,
he continues for an hour before finishing, the
audience standing up in excitement, so great is
the enthusiasm, whicli lasted half-an-hour, during
which time Orea r«jturns to his instrument, then
on the music rolled, s>irpaHsing his first efTort,
finishing with the " National Anthem," play-
ed as never heard before. Before departing, the
Emperor and Empress thanked him very much,
inviting him to return to Berlin anu repeat
what he accomplished this night, Orea consent-
ing and returning thanks; so departs the
Empeior and Empress from Orea and Don
Rosario.

The Emperor remarked to those who accom-
panied him : " He is a pianist eminently of the
intellectual school, having such a charm of style
and delicacy of touch which renders his music
so agreeable, so grateful ! "

His former appearance in St Petersburg,
Paris, Vienna, and even now in Berlin, arousing
the greatest enthusiasm from the first, he being
ranked superior to Paderewski and Rosenthal,
undoubtedly he will have everything his own
way while he retains his mystic science. When
he retires no other can take his place to be his
equal.

Alvira, alias Orea

" Orea, I have received a letter frotn my agent
in London, he lias tratiisaeted all your business
according to my instruction. Ho gave the ten
thousand pounds to the Duchess Davenport, and
said it surprised her very much, and, more so,
since she did not know the giver. She remark-
ed, however, that she was very thankful to re-
ceive this large amount of money so unexpect-
ed — it seems some good friend has not for-
gotten nie when they send you with thif, gift to
me. Please sir, what is your name, and who are
you ? "

" My name is Arthur Vickers. You are
Duchess Davenport, are you not ? "

" Yes, sir."

" I am ai^ent for Don Rosario, he beino- the in-
structor and manager of Urea, the celebrated
pianist who is now coming to England, after he
appears in Marseilles, France ; 'twas I purchas-
ed the Duke of Davenport's estate."^

" You, air, purchased the estate of the Duke of
Davenport ? I am his Duchess."

" I know you are," remarks Arthur Vickers.

" Was it this Don Rosario gave you this money
for me ?" asks Duchess Davenport.

" No, Duchess Davenport, it was sent from St.
Petersburg to the bank of London. There I re-
ceived your money, more I cannot tell you."

*' I am aware the Duke's estate was sold, but
never heard who the purchaser was," remarks
Duchess Davenport.

Alvira, alias Orea.

" All I can inform you about was the amount
paid for the estate; it cleared the mortgage, paid
all the Duke's indebtedness and all expenses, in
deedi/ig the property over to its present owner.
I also believe there is some left for the Duke's
heir," remarks Arthur Vickers.

"Very likely; the money you gave me is my
portion," enquires Duchess Davenport.

" No, Duchess Davenport ; it is not your por-
tion. What you receive is a gift from a friend
whom you knew and may meet hereafter," says
Arthur Vickers.

" How strange and mysterious does this appear,
it surpasses all my comprehension ; still, I'll
wait patiently to see what will transpire. You
mentioned a celelnated pianist who is cominir to
London ? " asks Duchess Davenport.

" Yes, Duchess Davenport, he s the purchaser
of the Duke's estate, and he is reported to be
veiy wealthy, being the greatest pianist the
world has known," replies Arthur Vickers.

" 0! how anxious I will wait for his coming
to London. I delight to hear good music, it re-
minds me of the past. Alas ! I will not mention
th it past. ! no ; that's gone by, depai ted.
Sir, for bringing this gift to me, and for your in-
formation, kindly acce[)t my heartfelt thanks,"
Bays Duchess Davenpoit.

" 1 will. Duchess Davenport, with the greatest
pleasure; now biading you for the present good-
bye.

Alvira, alias Orea.

" Now, since he's ffone, I will think over all he
communicated to me. This great amount of
money I will deposit in the bank where it will
be sale, where I can withdraw small or large
amounts as I require. Then I will write to my
son at college informing him of my good fortune.
It will astonish him. He can ask permission
fiom his principal for leave of absence to visit
his mother in London. Then I will inform hin^
of everything that has transpired since his de-
parture. When last he wrote me he heard that
his father's estate was being sold, this being all
he knew. He knows not what is coming to him
by the settlement of the estate. This celebrated
pianist he spoke about must be exceedingly
wealthy. O ! that Alvira, if she had lived, she
would have been superior to this celebrated
pianist, and I would have shared her wealth-
Alas ! she is no more ; 'tis my misfortune. I ex-
pected, by bringing her out, to pay off the moi t-
gage on the Duke's estate, believing I could re-
tain the estate clear of all encumbrance; then
the Duke might have led a better life, had he
not died and left me to bear the disgrace of his
misspent life. Peace be with him ; may the
Almighty pardon all his transgressions, and take
his spiiit to dwell with Him above, in that
heavenly home where peace, contentinent, pre-
vails forever. I do feel thankful to the Almighty
Father; He it was who directed this gift the

Alvira, alias Orea.

stranger brought me. It will support me while
He pleases to keep me on this earth. This
money with my son I'll share. It will pay his
expenses to complete his education, then what-
ever remains of his father's estate will be suffi-
cient to support him through life. I will take
him with me to Barrister Bothwell, it being he
who had the mortgage on the estate and the
ri<;ht to dispose of it, which must have been sold
to the celebrated pianist. Very likely he has the
money due to my son ; would have paid it to
him or I, had he known where we resided. After
the Duke's death I discharged all the employes,
also my household servants, and disposed of the
household furniture and fixings, which belonged
to myself. Barrister Bothwell then took the
estate in charge."

Just as she finished her soliloquy her son ar-
rives at her apartments unnoticed and embraces
her. She remarks : " O ! it is thee, my dear boy.
I was waiting to hear from you, but you have
arrived, which pleases me much better."

" Mother, I was delighted when I heard of
your good fortune, also of the money coming to
me from the estate ; that is why, mother, I asked
leave of absence from college for to accom-
pany you to interview Barrister Bothwell,"
speaks her favorite son.

" My good son, the balance remaining after
paying off the mortgage of your father's indebted-

Alvira, alias Orea.

ness belongs to you. Now be seated. I will or-
der you some refreshment. When you partake
of It we will proceed instantly to the barrister's
chambers to ir.quire of Mr. Bothwell the amount
remaining after paying all claims against the
estate. Mr. Bothwell is an honest man, and will
not deceive us."

" Yes, mother, I am sure he will treat us fairly
by giving us an account of the whole transac-
tion ; that is, the price paid for the estate. Now
mother, I have finished my lunch, and am at
your service," says her son.

Very well, my son ; I have ordered a car-
nage, it will arrive here shortly. Come, my boy,
as I speak it is here at the door waiting lor us."
They enter the carriage and are driven to
Barrister Bothwell's chambers, Piccadilly Square.
Whence they arrive, a messenger is despatched
to inform the barrister that the Duchess Daven-
port and her son desire an interview with him.
Barrister Bothwell receives the messencrer and
instructs him to escort the visitors into his priv-
ate room, where he receives them with kind
tranquillity and desires them tj be .-eated, he
remarking to Duchess Davenport: ''I long have
sought you and your son, and made inquiries
about you, as I had business of importance to
relate to you."

" Mr. Bothwell, if you recollect, I sent you a
notice after the Duke's death that I discharged

28 Alvira, alias Orea.

all the employees on the estate, sold out what
belonged to myself and departed to live in retire-
ment, which I did for a year or two, during |
which time matters transpired that gave me
courage for the future. A stranger came to in-
form me that our estate was sold for a greater
price than its real value, and that there was
something left for the heir, my son."

" Good, Duchess Davenport, the stranger that
informed you was truthful, for, indeed, I re-
ceived much more than I expected for the estate.
Here is a statement of the sale which I prepared
for you and your son, which will enlighten you
that all was transacted according to the law. I
will read to you both this statement, after which
you can look it over yourselves. The amount,
after paying all expenses, leaves an abundant
dowry to the heir, your son. I conscientiously
thought of you and your son's welfare when set-
ting a price on the estate, and, knowing my pur-
chafeer was wealthy, therefore I set my own
terms, so the amount coming to your son is
twelve thousand pounds sterling, also to you,
madam, eight thousand."

"O, sir, you deserve our gratitude, being so
interested in our welfare. Such great kindness
to us we will remember to our last day," re-
marks Duchess Davenport.

" Madam, I only done done my duty in this
respect, and hereafter you will have my services
gratis whenever you desire them."

Alvira, alias Orea. 29

" I have some friends, but you are my best,
indeed, for what you have accon.ph'shed for my
welfare. Had you sold our estate to satisfy
your own claim, this you could have done; but
your kind heart had compassion for the unfor-
tunate widow and her son. 0, sir, you erased
the sorrow that lay heavy on my heart, that
gives me bright visions for the future. May
your good life be spared that sorrow from
which I have suffered, is the desire from me,
whom you befriended."

"Good madam, I expect your kind compli-
ments, but I only did what any other honest
business man would do; could I have done more
for your prosperity, I would instantly have
done it for you both."

Mr. Bothwell returns to his private room with
a great worry off his mind, that the lawful heir
has been found and satisfied. The Duchess
Davenport goes back to her humble abode
accompanied by her son, where they consult
with each other about purchasing another resi-
dence in a more fashionable locality, thev ar-
ranging that, on the morrow, they wilf visit
some real estate agent that has such property on
the market; then they will proceed and examine
it. If it be found satisfactory to their desires
they will purchase it. Afterwards, the Duchess
Davenport desires her son to go and finish out
his term at college, in the meantime she will

}

80 Alvira, alias Orea.

have the Bijou residence decorated and furnished
to their satisfaction, for it is very likely we will
make it our home to our life's end.

" Mother, I am convinced of what you pro-
pose, and consider well of your judgment in this
respect. I can depend upon you to make it at-
tractive, where we will once again receive our
true and trusted friends, who have not forsaken
us. Mother, the time has arrived when I must
depart from you for tlie third time. When I
return home again, it will be to spend many
pleasant days with you, as you are aware of my
having good prospects of entering into partner-
ship with a responsible firm here in London,
where I will always come home to you, mother."

" My son, your prospect is assured, I believe
you wnll be succes^sful in your occupation, I have
a great desire for yonr welfaie, and you will
never betray your mother, so, my dear boy,
may health and happiness be with you until
you return to me (they embrace each other and
bid farewell). They selected and purchased the
Bijou residence before her son departed, then
the Duchess Davenport engaged an artist who
is expert in house furnishing and decorating.
When all is completed she takes up her abode
there, among the most pleasant sights of Lon-
don, a few of her trusted old servants ^he re-
engages. After settling in her new hoi le, with
comforts surrounding her, she meditates on for-

Alvira, alias Orea. 31

mer times wlien once she ruled asa Duchess, when
she was ever benevolent to the unfortunate who
surro-mded the Duke'« estate, and her thou.rhts
take in the future, she repeatin^r; " Has not"my
Heavenly Father ^iven me this opportunity to
contmue my benevolent work in His vineyard ?
Yes, I believe this is His purpose. Receiving
tins gift from Him, I must not pass my life in
idleness, where there is work to be accomplished
lor poor unfortunates of this great city."

While she was engaged with her thourrhts
her valet approached with a note, handing i"t to
her, she opening and reading contents. She in-
structs him to bring the gentleman to her. This
order was executed promptly. She speaks, in-
quiring : " Who are you that desires an inter-
view with me ? " Madam, you are the Duchess
o Davenport ? " " Yes, sir, I was the Duchess
of Davenport, but I am not now. I'm only a
humble duchess, living privately."
II Well, Madam, you have forgotten me ? "
"Yes, sir, I have no remembrance of vou
whatever." "^

" Then I will inform you of my name. It is
Mr. Dunbar the father of young Alvira. whom
you sent to Leipsic, to finish her musical educa^

"I beg your pardon, sir, now I do remember
you and your good wife, also your long lost Al-
vira, her disappearing with her instructor has

(

32 Alvira, alias Orea.

been a great mystery to me for the last two
years. I went to great expense to find if it
were true, as was reported by the English press
that they were both drowned. My agents went
to Leip-ie, trying to unravel the mystery of
their disappearance. They found the boat in
which they were supposed to have been drowned
from. They grappled in the river, searching
without success ; the swift-running current must
have taken their bodies to the ocean, never more
to be found."

" I, too, have searched all over Europe trying
to find them, but was not successful, although I
spent all the wealth I earned in former years.
Now my wife and family, also myself, are in
poverty, and have to go to the poorhouse to re-
side. I lost my steady situation, and no one
seemed to pity us. Still, I have faith that Al-
vira will return some day," remarks Mr, Dunbar.

" Sir, I am profoundly sorrowful at your dis-
tress ; my loss in your daughter was equally as
great as yours. I patiently waited, thinking
they would return, but, alas ! I fear they won't,"
speaks Duchess Davenport.

" When I was abroad searching for them, I
read the account of the Duke's deaih and sale of
his estate. When I returned I tried to find you,
but you had departed. They told me you sold
out all that belonged to you. They also told me
you went away and was living in a humble

Alvira, alias Orea. S3

abode, supporting yourself by teaching music,
■so having your address, J proceeded, and now
tind you here."

"Well, sir, it may be to your welfare that you
found me. Toll me where yourself and family
ai-e dweliing i I will arrange to visit you."

"Dear IMadam, 1 have no dwelling, only the
poorhouse."

"Oh ! sir, I pity you, but will visit you there."
"Noble Duchess Davenport, it would be beneath
ynir dignity to come there. Should you desire
any information 1 can give it to you," says Mr.
Dunbar. " I only wish to see your wife and fam-
ily, to tell them that J will assist them and you
in your unfortunate circumstances, for I'm able
to do it, through the assistance of a good friend
unknown to me whom I assisted when I lost my
husband the Duke. 1 am willing to share it
with you. Go, bring your good wife to me ; I'll
await until she and you return."

" Good JMadam, I'll do your bidding " (he
departs to bring liis wife).

The Duchess Davenport communes with her-
self during his absence. " [ was the cause of
injunng that poor man and woman ; they have
suliered more than T. It was I that brought them
to destitution. Had tlieir young daughter re-
mained with them she would have been living
to-day, and their parents would have been pros-
perous. It is undoubtedly my bounden duty to
give them assistance.

Alvfra, alias Orea.

li'

The bt'il rinos at the fi'ont door. The valet
answers it. It is Mr. and Mrs. Diudar He
;^uides tiiem to the Duchess ])aven[)()rt, wlicre
fehe advances and receives tht.ni wiili kind
modesty and good-will, inviting- tl:eui to lie
Sf.-ated.

" JMrs. ])ind)ar, you have come at my bidding. I
am exceedingly picased to welcome you here.
Your husband related to me your nid'ortun-
ate circumstance, and the loss oi' ywur 3'oung and
promising daughter. You a.s well as myseli' ex-
pected great pro pects of her, but fortune WL-nt
against us both — also your remaining Family."

" Yrs, Duchess Dfuonport.w*. id! lavesuliered;
but y' 'i n'"e n^t to Ulauje for her disappearance.
Your intentions were tor her welfare, hail our
anticipations been fultille<l."

" You speak with reason, Mm. Dunbar. Slie,
by \ny plans and jiroposition. woidd have be-
come the musical genius of the world. She
would have made a fortune for }oa and I, this
being my expe^.tation ; my intentions being to
red:'em the Duke, my late husband's esta'e,
ALas ! then m^ loss was great, all by prospects
friistrrtted and having to support m\self by
tea(thin^' uuisic, which I cont.nued for two years,
tli'^?' I.'' r-;^ rawi" a dny when my memory was
thinki!\g f t'e pa.-^t. Just itien a strange vis-
itor came to my humble abode, who desired an
interview with me, he telling me he was an

Ai.vruA, ALIAS Orea. 35

n<;oiit for Don RoHnrin, the ,nana<rer and instruc-
tor of tlie roiiovvncd Orra, who is to appear in
London. He i.lso jc^^ave uw. a cli.>(,ue on the
Bank of Kn-lM,nd for ten thousand poun.ls in-
forminnr n.o it was from a friend who know mo
an.i may know me acrain in the future. Anotlier
-ood friend who hehl the mortgage on the Daven-
I'ort estate disposed of it, for my son's and my
a.lvanta<,^e, we never expectinrr any income from
It. However, we received a respectahle amount
from the estate, and it enabled us to pnrcliase
this suhstantial residence. We intend to make
It our future home. This finishes n.y story
now please accept this <rift fVou. me ; with ityou'
can purchase a dwellincr to acconunodate you
and your tamiiy, and assist you to educate them
lie balance will support you and your luishand
durni^ryour earthly life. This cheque 3'ou can
take to the JJank of l^:nolan<l and they will
cash It for you, then you can dispose of it in
the way I have told you."

" Dear .Aladam, we sincerely thank you for
your knidness: this we never expected O'
;nay kind Providence ^a-ant you prosperity dur-
n^iH .your life, then in the Heavenly Tabernacle
above the saints will receive n ou. We wish
this to you, our benefactor. Pa,rtin<r with you
now, may God bless you."

"When you are settled inform n.c; to visit
you 1 11 endeavor." They depart from Duchess

3()

Ar.VIIlA, ALIAS OUKA.

Davenport, their heartn filled with gtatitude for
lier.

'inhere was ^rent joy in tlie poorhoiiso that
ni^ht when tlie l)iinl)ar t'anilly (^^athered around
tlieii' I'atlier aii<l niotlier to listen to the ^lad
tidin<^s they had to relate. BelVjre the week had
tianspired the Dunbar faniily were donuciled in
a comfort'ible lioiue. The chiKh'cn were sent to
a private school, tlien all appeared tran([uil in
the hunhar household.

The I)uchess Davenport, after parting with
Ml', and Mrs. Dunhar, ivtired to her apartment
for the ni(i;ht, I'Ut sleep she could not, her
thou<^hts dwelt on the past and the prospects
for the future, the returnini,^ of her beloved
son from college, then her memory would revert
to the benevolent work she had accomplished.

For doing this she thanked her Maker, God,
trusting she had done all things to His glory
and that her Heavenly Father would still lead
her on in nobler thinijs for the welfare of human-
ity here on His earthly Kingdom. At length
she enjoys the calm, peaceful sleep of the just.
She awakes at the dawning of a luw day, re-
freshed and alert, bends down on her knees at
her bedside to gi\e thanks to Him who holds
the universe in liand.

" To one so insii/nitieant as me? " this beinir the
tenor of her praise to her Almiglity Father. She
then appears before her housekeeper and house-

ALVfRA, ALIAS OrEA.

.Vic
he

se-

hold servants, htii^'lit .'uul f;iir, nMimikini^, " It i.s
a deli^flitful niorniiii,'." Tlioy unsweriii;^', * \\m.
iii!i(l;un." Slio tlien cxajniiiCH fill purt.s of her
well-Olden <1 houao, iukI th.'Uiks the .servants t'tir
their titlitiess in lixini,' t!iin;^s so a^jreeahU? to
her vision. Her servants respect her as u wor-
thy mistress, ami always do theii' best e'ndeavor
to^ive her satisfaction, which thfy always .^nc-
ceed in doin<^^ She fre(|nently orders her livery-
man to hrini,' her cariiiii,'e to the front door,
where they assist lior to jjor seat. Then she de-
sires them to drive her alon;^ the Terrace, where
London's nobility parade. 'I'his ontin;ij always
delipfhted lier : she recalls the time when she was
the leader in all fashionable aristocratic circles
ill London. After her misfortune, she was
noticed by society to bo absent from all gaieties
and from the parades on the Terrace. Now, she
has returned, a])pearing in her formei' splendor;
all were (juite astonished and surprised at her
turn-out, for they knew the Duke, her husband,
was dead and also bankrupt. 1'he estate was sold
to pay the Duke's debtors. Then she went tore-
side privately in a not frequented part of Lon-
don, unknovvn to society and the gaieties of the
great melropo'.e. No wonder they were a.s-
tounded at iier reappearance in her former
grandeur, as pure as the bloom, and fair as the
blossom, of a new blooming rose. The gossips
in society commenced to argue different reasons

Alviiu, ai.ias Orea.

for lie)' apiKMiiiiL;' aftoi' iho ^r-at downfall she
had ; cacli one had their own opinion about
her ajtpe.'uin^' on ihe parade in such expen-
sive attii'(\ surpassing even her i'orincr appear-
ance, when she was the rulini:' Duchess Daven-
port, but it is ordained by higher power than
society that the Duchess Davenpoi't will her
former eminence in society refrain. Her son has
won hi;^h honors in colleo\\ the principal and
all tlio teachers haie great respt'Ct for his ability
and predict he will accomplish great enterpiises
in the future. He will inherit his father's Duke-
dom, althouoh he is now deljarred from claiminjjf
it.

T must now return to the celebrated Orea, and
his ujanager, ])on Rosario. They received high
acclamation in Marseilles, France, the people
being delighted beyond their conception. They
wondered that such a mortal of humanity, who
]")0Sfeesfied such exceeding excellence, that stiis
the inward feeling of humanity, such asw'as never
accomplished before

'I'liey depaited fi'om Marseilles, with enor-
mous rejoicings, the occasion being one not to be
forgotten.

Howevei-, in due time they arrive at England,
to appear at Liver|)()o], where crowds of the in-
habitants welcome them to their great manufac-
tuiing city Heiv, where thousands tread and
barter in nuicantile ] uisuits, wheie mariufac-

Alvika, alias (Juea.

turers strive to compete ai^aiiist each other in
various articles of iiiaiiiifa(.'tui'e<l goods, to supply
civilization.

Here a pianist, who is welcomed to the thiiv-
iwjr industrial metro|;<»l<', where nevei ,»et'ore a
celebrated improssario appeared. So the Mayor
of tliat o-reat city proclaims a JKjliday, to receive
him, to hear his bewildering music that surpasses
all r.nderstanding, that a feminine ap earing
person should possess such artistical ability.
After his appearances in Livei'pool, all England
heard of his triumph and desiied his presence in
London. Don llosario would not po.^tpone his
engagements in Scotland, where he has to appear
at a certain date, according to agreement, after
which he will visit London, where he will he the
guest of Queen Victoria and the Royal Family
at Windsor Castle, afterwards appearing in the
largest music hall in London, where the public
will be welcome to come and hear a su{)erior
master of classical music, before never heard in
London.

The students of the variotis colleges in the
city formed the club to give a banquet to the
renowned impressaiio, after his excellent per-
formance in Liverpool's greatest Music Hall.
They carried him to a carriage, brouglit him to
the banquet, where he wan received and welcomed
by the young Duke of Davenport, who escorted
him before the feast table, placing him on his
right side.

40 Alvira., alias Orka.

The impressario remarked : " This is a banquet
to be remeinbeied, so excellent is everything
conducted." He also owned it was tlie best feast
he ever received, and thanked the students for
the appreciation of liis ability, especially the
young Duke, who was the originator, in arrang-
ing the banquet which they all enjoyed im-
mensely.

" The reason I desired the students to contri-
bute with me to give you, i\Iaster Orea, this ban-
quet, is because I have sincere respect for you
as a musician of no mean ability, and the liberal
amount which you paid for my father, the
Duke's, estate, which I was benefited by.

" After you receive the plaudits of civiliza-
tion, no doubt you will retire to your estate,
which you purchased, for the remaining part of
your life. It was the home of my birth, the
liome of my childhood, the liome of my boy-
hood, and it grieved me exceedingly when I had
to part with it. I am pleased and satisfied at
your good fortune in owning it. May your life
be tranquil with happiness and peace while
passing your days in the home I did love, and
do still love."

" I am exceedingly thankful to you for your
consideration in regard to my prosperity and
welfare. At any time you may have leisure, I
beg you to come and visit me at your old home.
You are welcome to bring any friend you desire^

Alvira, alias Orka. 41

or your wife, sliould you be a married man " re-
plied tiie impressario. The Duke answers • " I
am not a married man, having a loving n.other
who adores me, and I am .satisfied to remain'
single,

^ " Then, Duke, bring her with you : it would
give me the greatest pleasure to meet her in the
Chateau, where she once reigned as a Duchess
She may approve of tin. way I rearrange her
old Chateau. It is different entirely, arranged
outside and in the interior, from the time your
mother dwelt there. If I uw not mistaken; .he
will be astonished at the wealth (hat has been
lavished there since she departed," remarks Orea
" I have not the least doubt about it, Orea and
I will proceed directly to bring her there to 'visit
you; she will think it an honor to accept your
invitation. She oft-times remarked to me she
would like to see the scenes once more of my
childhood's happy days, where oft with her I
romped and played, no thoughts of the future
then or of my college days."

At this moment they were interrupted by Don
Kosario, who approached, and Orea introduced
mm to the young Duke, saying : " Uv. Don
Kosano, allow me to introduce vou to Albert
Montague, the young Duke of Davenport; a
iJuke without an estate, but a noble youn^. o-en-
tleman. who can make his own way in the world
without his dukedom."

42 Alvika, alias Ohka.

Don Rosario shook hands with the younpf
Duke and letnarked : " I am delighted to make
your ac(iuaint;inct'. Vour mother, the Duchess
of Davenport, 1 had trfinsaction.s with through
an aofcnt in London. Previous to tliat, 1 had
personal acquaintance with her, knowing her to
be a virtuous woman, whom I ever since respect-
ed. Some future time I may have an interview
.with her again."

Orea informs Don Kosario that he will meet
the Ducliess Davenport in lier old Chateau when
the young Duke takes his mother there. I gave
them an invitation to come whilst you were
absent, and he promised he would bring his
mother, so we will all meet there when our sea-
son's enoacrements come to an end.

" Orea, we now must part with our friends
and the young Duke on the morrow, thanking
them all for the magnificent banquet they pro-
vided for us. We will remember your hospital-
ity until we meet again ; till then we bid you all
farewell."

Their friends, at their parting, sing : " For
they are jolly good fellows, with a hip — hip —
hurrah."

While travelling to Scotland by the North
British Railway there were a party of Scottish
gentlemen, accompanied by their lovely wives
and dautrhters, who came to Liverpool to witness
the performance of the only Orea, the wizard

Alvira, alias Okea.

pianist. Tr.cy were honored hy beincr travellers
in his company on to Scotland, he beincr intro-
duced to all the ladies hy Don Kosario. They
conversed wiih him frankly, and he related his
triumphs on the continent of Kurope, which
amazed them very much. Each (lucstion thev
asked him, lie answered intelligentiy, givin^r
them information about foreign countries that
he visited on liis travels. They desired informa-
tion how he was received by the crowned heads
of Europe. He referred to them all, believing
the Emperor of Russia the most renowned of all,
and the Empress, he remarked, was a perfect
angel, and he loved her intensely, but she had a
superior man than him.

Then they inquired if it were true that he
purchased the Daven])oi't estate, he answering
yes. ^

"Then, are you going to reside there by your-
self in that large and costly structure which
must have cost thousands of pounds ^ "

" My manager will abide with me ; he accom-
phshes all my transactions to my satisfaction,"
f^ays Orca.

" For all that your life will be lonely," re-
marks the young and beautiiul daughter of Sir
Pei-cy Bruce, a retired Scottish gentleman, a
native of Edinburgh.

The young lady continued, conversing in a
modest way with Orea, he being delight^ed by

4-4

Alvira, alias Ori:a.

her confaliulation, she seeming so interested in
his lil'e — she still remarking: " I suppose yon
will be takin<( to yoursolt' a wife wlien you
settle down in your mngnifieent home in Daven-
port ^

"Weil, I should think any .sensible yountr
lady would be cxceedinoly plensed to become
your wife ; perhaps you liave not found one you
could love and live with all your life. If you
found one to suit you, you would not he lonely
as you must be should you reside alone in your
pjreat mansion."

" You are just teasing me, are you not, Miss
Bruce ? " '

" No, I would not tease you for all the world.
I was just giving you good advice. You have
been entertained by the highest society while on
your travels in different countries you have
visited abroad. Have you not come across any
fair ladies that loved yon, and you them ?"

" I have associated with the highest society
through ont Europe, also been feasted and wel-
comed even by Princess and Empress, also the
daughters of the nobility throughout Europe. I
confess to you, my dear Miss Bruce, that I loved
every one of those ladies and told them so, but
not one of them informed me of their affection
to me," replies Orea,

" What would you have done if any of them
had told you they loved you, Orea ? "

Alvuu, alias (Juea. 45

" I would have accepted the one who told me

nrst, replied Orea.
" And wouUl you marry hei-, Orea ? "
"Decidedly, that is just what I would liave

dene, replied Orea.

_ " ^ow I have succeede<l in findin<r out how it
18 respectable young women do not get married
jnst because they do not tell the men they Jove
them. Is this not true. Orea ^ "

"You have struck the nail on its liea.l, Mi.ss
l^mce. \our love for me has concjuered nie by
my own words. Shouhl all turn out to your
expectation, it will be when my engagements
this season come to an end," says Orea.

" I am perfectly satisfied to wait till you liave
completed your engagements and retire to your
estate, ' remarks aji-,s Bruce.

"During that lime .some other one micdit love
"ie:you would forgive me should I di^ippoint
you, iMiss Bruce?"

" Well, you liave my love now, what n.ore do
\'ou expect but uiy promise to you, Orea ? "

" Things are so uncertain in this world, my
voung lady, we know 2iot wliat will happen any
nioment. Another year from now, however I'll
love you to the end of ^..ur life, and when we
pass from oft this sphere we will meet again in
^^ ij|.^lier sphere above. In Heaven, where there
will be no more parting," remarks Orea.

" You are very wise and sensible, 1 will trust

Alvira, alias Orea,

you until a year has ^one past, then I will
hear from you. My mother and i'fither must not
be told of this arrangement until we have set-
tled this (juestion of matrimony between us.
We will attend your perfoinianee in Edinburgh,
when we will be delighted again to hear your
magic music, afterwards you depart to London,
I will keep up your correspondence until the
year is finished."

" This I am agreeable to, Miss Bruce," replies
( )rea.

" Then we understand each other thoroughly,
Orea," remarks Miss Biuce.

" Yes, undoubtedly. Miss Bruce ; there is no
backing out of that, I grant you the year. If I
am not married inside of that time f will un-
doubtedly marry you," remarks Orta.

" 1 will keep you to your word, Orea : good-bye
for the present. In an hour we will arrive at
Edinburgh, and I may not meet you there.
However, my affection wmU be for you through-
out that long year sincere, Orea."

*' So will my attection be for you, married or
single, Miss Bruce."

" JMow the train arrives in Edinburgh, we part
to meet again. Let us be true ; good-bye, Miss
Bruce."

Don Rosario arrives to take Orea away. Miss
Bruce rejoins her parents, their carriage is wait-
ing for them, they are driven to their home.

Alvira, alias Orea.

Thousands meet the celebrated (Jrea and escort
him and Don Rosario to tlie Princes Jlotel, on
Piinces Street, Edinburgli, where he is welcom-
ed and feasted by some of tlie Scottish nobility
of Scotland, that country wliich produced many
brave gallants in war, gi-eat in science, ^reat as
rulers in many countries.

Here they i-eceive one greater than themselves,
m this eminent impressario, who has deliohted
tlie people in all countries. Here, in Edinburgh,
he is conveyed on the shoulders of the students'
to the Theatre Royal, where seats were sold in
advance at fabulous pi-ices, beyond the mnjority
of the people of the city.

As Orea took his seat in front of his piano-
forte, the people were amazed and remarked by
what charm this strange personage exerts such
a peculiar power, the critics cannot decide.

As soon as the notes of his piano steal through
the theatre, a strange lethargy seizes the audi-
ence, anrl they drop into a waking slumber, they
are so astonished at the wonderful performei-
The audience were all satisfied and remai-ked :
" He must have made preparations when he was
'I child, for he's not yet, I presume, eighteen
.years old. He's one of the marvels of this acre "
So thought the manager of the great Theatre
Royal, and he consulted with Don Rosario to
have him remain another night, to give those
who were disai)pointed on the first night another

Alviha, alias Okea.

!i "

.■I

opportunity to witness tlie colebrated impress-
ario.

Dun Rosario consulted witli Orea, and he con-
sented to remain, to oblige the mana;3'ement and
the public ; for this he received an ovation from
the enormous throng- of people who were assem-
bled outside of the ^I'heatre lloval.

The scene of entliusiasm was almost unpre-
cedented, and the crowds awaiting were so dense
that the police were unable to cope with them,
they being so satis(ie<l at his second cnga;j;ement.
Orea was the lion that night in the Koyal Hotel,
they could not do enough for him, and all went
merry until the dawn of day came, then he re-
tired to rest, to sleep the sleep of the Just, then
awakening at the liour of twelve to i)artake of
the good dinner. Then he was driven around
the great city of Edinburgh by the city officials.
He enjoyed it immensly. Then they all returned
to the hotel where a supper was prepared for
them ; when finished they passed a pleasant two
hours, Orea amusing them by playing his own
compositions ; at it they all marvelled with
astonishment. His perfect rapid execution — it
was indeed astonishing to his beholders to hear
and see a liuman mortal portraying music so
consequential, they thinking him a perfect

genius.

Orea then retires to his apartments to make
preparations for the theatre where he will make

Alvira, alias Ouea. 49

Ins ]a,st appcuiance, it l.ein- as crreat a yuc-
cess as on Ins first niahr, wlu.n Le appeaml.
aii.l woul.l JiHvc been grealer ha.l he stayed
annther nii^^ht, lie was so captivating that the
peoph. could li.ten to liini Jorever. Alas '■ ho
must now procee<] to London, wliere the London-
ers are awaiti.io- anxiously to see the youno-
iinpressano who has caused so mucli excitement
tlirouuliout Europe

Orea depavte.l from Edinburgh with the plau-
dits of tlie 8cutch pop.dation, who followed him
to the depot and bi.l him bon voyage.

He was received in J.ondon wit'h ('^juaMy rrreat
honors, and proceeding from (he depot to the
International Hot.l, where he reigns supreme
He IS visited by all cla.sses of the people, who
welcome liini to their metropole. They show
their goo,] will to him by singing " He's a jolly
i^ood fellow" which is taken up by the 'vast
throng who .surround the International Hotel
Sdence did not remain while he departed from
the balcony to prepare for the last of his
season's engagements, then he retires to his
estate m Davenport to take re.t and cou^toa
tor one year, may be.

Hon Rosario will accompany him to attend to
Ins we fare, manage all his business transac-:ons
as he did in the past.

Now,_the young Duke Montague finished hi.
university career and retires with all honor,
4

AlVIRA, AMA8 OREA.

given him at his parting, to return to London.
His liea(hiuisters, professors, and students give
liiin a b.in(|uet at Ins departing, where lie again
goes to I'ojoin his mother, in their Loudon resi-
dence. She receives him to her liome with
ghidnt'ss and rejoicing. He atlectionately em-
braces hoY. 'I'here was joy ami consohition
witli them. He informed her of the reception
he undoitook by tlie assistance of all the college
students in arranging a ])!in(juet and feast to
the eminent imii-essario Orea in Liverpool. The
alTair })L'ing a huge success and triumph.

Oroa was delighted when he knew I was the
young Duke Montague of Davenport. He then
invited all my friends to visit him in Davenport,
where he retires to our old Chateau in Daven-
port. Also, if I was married, to bring my wife
along with me. I then informed him that I had
no wife, was still a single gentleman, living and
supporting my niother, the Duchess Davenport,
Also he remarked this, the following : " Well sir,
Duke Montague, bring her wilh you, for I will
be exceedingly happy to make her acipiintance.
I'll give hei- a warm reception to her former
estate and Chateau. When she beholds the ex-
pense J went to in rearranging and fixing all
things in proper repair, she undoubtedly will be
amazed at the magnificence that she will wit-
ness." This is what he informed me of, and I
think it to our interests to visit him there dur-

Alvira, alias Orea.

'on-
'ife
md
■'ind

port.
sir,
will
mce.
Miier
ox-
er all
11 be
Iwit-
Indl
Idur-

incr his vacation, where he will retire for a \ ear
to eujoy freedom and ncreution with Don Ilo-
sario, who traiisact.s Ids business and nmkes
int|nirieH of the sujierintendi'nt if any other alter-
ations be required, to get it (h)ne at once as he
expected visitors coming to see liim. " Xow,
mother, you nuist come witli in<! to interview
and hear this Own, who is the W(jnder of the age."
"Now, my son, had 3'on not arrived just in
time, I would have departed by this time to tlie
i\Cf\demy of Mudc, wliere Orea is to a]ipear in
one hour. I have read frequently in the daily
newspapers of this Orea, the celebrated impres-
sario, and I made preparations, also arrange-
ments, had my costumes arranged in order to go
and hear him. I did not expect your arrival.

" Now, my son, we have no time to pass in
conversation, and must make ready instantly
or we will have no box, for I. negligently forgot
to secure one."

" Mother, be not annoyed, f arrived on pur-
pose to take you to hear the great Orea, and
have already secured in the Academy of Music
one private box, which will be kept for us," says
the Duke.

" 0, my son, you are indeed thoughtful. You
come attired in your best suit, and are prepared.
I will now retire to prepare my toilet, and will
not detain 3''ou long."

" Mother, take your leisure in arranging your
toilet, as you did in years gone by."

J i

Alvika, at.ias Orea.

" My son, I have prej)aied my toilet ex|;re.ssly
for this occasion, and you will see nie shortly
arrayed. You order the coachman to brin^' my
c;nTiige directly.'

" Yes, dear mother, before you saw me I met
the coachman and conversed with him, also the
footman. Tiiey were pleased to see me back, in-
quiring anxiously il I were goiui^ to remain
liomo, I answering yes, and they seemed so de-
liorJited at my remainino'. Mother, do not let me
delay 3'ou." She retires for a short time and re-
appears in the most elegant and costly garment
that taste and culture could desire. Her son
gloried in lier appearance, and remarking:
" Mother, you are undoubtedly tlie most fair
and beautiful woman T ever saw, reminding me
of a statue, so perfect in form and figure, with
features so perfect that I never saw before. I
once saw this figure in the Latin Quarter ui the
Sculpture Gallery in Paris."

"Oh! my son, you exaggerate, when compar-
ing me to the statue you speak about in the Latin
Quarter in Pai-is. They are Madonnas, I am only
a simple Duchess, your mother, and appearing in
this modest, expensive dress for your pleasure."

" Mother, dear, indeed j'-ou do give me such
pleasure and satisfaction abundantly. Now come,
your carriage is in waiting at the front door, and
we are late in starting. I am ready to proceed ;
let there be no delay." They enter the carriage

Alvira, alias Ore a.

and are driven rapidly to the Academy of Music,
where the largest throng of people are assembled
I ever witnessed. A passage had to be opened
to allow the carriage to proceed to the front
door of the academy. The Duchess Davenport
and her son were met by ushers, who escorted
them to their private box. When entering, the
scene was magnificent to behold. Opcia-glasses
from all around stared them in the face like a
blaze of stars in the firmament above. All were
eagerly awaiting the appearance of Orea. Ail
were calm, and silence reigned, as Orea and Don
llosario appear forward upon the stage, and as
Orea took his seat the audience arose amazed,
then great enthusiasm prevailed for upwards of
a quarter of an hour. Then Orea proceeded to
his seat at the pianoforte and disjilayed his
ability. Still he continues to keep up his re-
cord, a record surpassing all others, so completely
that he never will have a conipetitor to annoy
him. The Duchess Davenport remarks to lier
son : " I have seen that face before, if I am not
mistaken ; that face resembles one wliom 1 knew.
I was attaclied to that person some years ago,
as I am now attracted to this Orea, the renown-
ed impressario. There are two faces resembling
each other so distinctly that no one who ever
saw them but would confess they resembled each
other, no distinction whatever. Take their
heads, place them together si<lo by side, there is
not a particle of difference between them,"

Alvira, am as Orka.

"Mother, I believe you. Why don't you
hearken to the music, it is more interesting than
comparinf,^ faces."

" My dear son, I enjoy tlie music thoioughly ; I
liave no fear of it, that my heart is thrilling in
raptures to .sec this young Orea performing on
his instrument so satisfying to the listeners."

"Mother, ho is wonderful, indeed a marvel, of
such genius, most superior to others I have njet
on my travels. His technie is so uniform, which
makes music so pleasant to the ear. Our memory
rlwells with it, nothing to draw away the mem-
ory from things that happened in the past. This
IS cori.^olation for our lost opportunities. It re-
freshes, brings new life to us and prospects more
startling for things to transpire in the future.

"Mother, I will forward him a note, inquiring
for an interview after he retires. He desired so
much to make your acquaintance and now is
your opportunity, when he knows who you are.
I will just state that Jlie Duchess Davenport de-
sires an interview wioh him. If it be possible,
she will await for him in her private box, situat-
ed on the first landing, number eight, to the
right side, where he will Hnd you."

"My son, this will be a meetijig I will no
doubt remember during my life, after conversing
with this august impressario, who has conversed
with all the crowned heads of Europe."

" Yes, it will be a gn^at honor to you. mother ;

Alvira, alias Orea. 55

I will now nn^ up the usher, and instruct him
to hand this note to Orea when he retires from
the stage. He will then come directly to your
box. I will l)e absent at his coming, and if he
inquires about me, you inform him that I retir-
ed to converse with a friend, and will return
sliortly to proceed with you to our home."

" 2s'ow, my son, you instantly must retire, for
Orea is iinishing his last sacred anthem, com-
posed by himself. Soon he will be here."

" Then, mother, I will now retire before he ar-
rives, and make an endeavor to find his manager,
Don Rosario, and inform him that Orea is having
an interview with you, so as not to put him about
at Orea's absence."

" You are, my son, a distinguished manipulator
in arranging secret matters, an<l I admire your
ability ; it will assist you when entering into
business on your own responsibility, for dexter-
ousness and shrewdness enables a man to look
forward to the future on serious occasions which
may transpire."

" Dear mother, you are sensible. T leave you,
seeing the great Orea has finislicd. I'll go mingle
among the audience and join in the cheering un-
til it is time for us to meet."

" It is so, my son."

He departs. The audience departs from the
Academy with glorious salutation to the cele-
brated and only Orea.

Alvira, alias Ojiea.

The Duchess Davcnpoit remains silent with
expectation to observe the object of Iter request.
That face she could swear by. 'Jliis reives her
another opportunity at a closer view. But hark !
she hears a silent step. It must be him. A gentle
rap come^^ from the door, informinnr hei- (d' his
arrival. Slie h\i,d>tly steps towards the door and
opens it and with much delight receives the meek
and humble Orea. He takes her lumd and holds
it tenderly, remarking, " You are the Duchess of
Davenport, whom I heard of fre(iuently, al-o
about your benevolent enterprises, are yon not ? "

" Sir, you are a stranger to me. I would never
have known it w;is you only foi- my son the
young Duke, who spoke so interestingly about
you. I also read about your great fame, tlirough
the daily press ; also that you were the purchaser
of the Duke's estate and gave a handsome pi-ico
for the propert}^ then spending thousand-^ of
pounds in repairing it. This has touched my
heart very tenderly."

At this information the tears fell from Orea's
eyes, and his commotion was most atFee-
iionate as he beneld the Duchess Davenport,
who still held his slim and childlike hand.
A. length he regained his presence of mind,
inquiring, " fs your son, the Duke, near at
hand ? I seeing him from the stage. I always
have great love and respect for him, for past
favors received for his liberality. I will never

Alvira, alias Orea.

regret, and liis promise to bring you to yovw old
Clia':eau, where I shortly retire and await your
conuni;'. I am delighted at meeting you, but
nnist not detain you any longer, for my Managei-,
Don Rosario, will be impatient at my absence."

He pressed with his tender hand hers, and tlie
tears again fell From Ids eyts as he parted with
her, and she with him, both remarking they will
meet again. Then, Orea departed to his dressing-
room where he found Don Rosario and the young
Duke, whom he was exceedingly pleased to meet
again. He ex]jlained to him about his interview
with his iiiother, and desired him not to neglect
bringing her to her former Chateau, as he
promised when I parted with you in Liver|iool.

" Now, Oiea, that I will not forget, you may
rely on my promise to }'ou," remarks the Duke.

" Then I trust you will fulfil your promise,"
replies Orea.

During Orea's absence with the Duchess
Davenport lier son was enjoying himcelf in
company with Don Rosario, and having a
friendly conversation, each relating his own ex-
perience during their past life. "^I'he young Duke
told of his boyhood days when he thought only
of all kinds of amusements, athletic sports, such
as cricket, lawn tennis, baseball, boating and
yachting. He was fond of horse riding, many
a canter he had after the hounds. This was the
way he spent his holidays from school, he caring

58 Alvira, alias Orea.

not much for study. Hia whole desire was to be
out in the open air, playing with comrades, and
ofttimes indulging in short excursions to the
towns and cities, where he also had a lively time
attend injx the theatres and concerts. Tliis con-
tinned on for some years, never thinking or
caring anything about his father, the late Duke,
or his widowed mother ; his father when living,
being very seldom at home, so he was not en-
joying his company. Both father and mother
most frequently passed their time in London, and
the young Duke was left much to himself. He
often tliought and pondered on those days, until
at length there came a day when he received a
letter from his mother in London, ordering him
to come to London instantly, as she desired his
presence there in due season. He arrives in that
great metropole London, it being the first time
he set foot there, till this; he never thought of
such a city, and like a strange boy, he thought
he was lost. He stoo^l meditating at a street
corner, and watching the hurrying crowds coming
and coinir to and fro. At this he marveled, and
entirely forgot what brought him to London.
However, he remembered his mother's letter,
when, behold, his mother's address was written
in the corner of the letter, and read as follows :
" Come to the Windsor Hotel, inquire for the
Duchess Davenport at the office, round the front
entrance," This took a great burden off his mind,

:iljLl

Alvira, alias Orea 59

he holding tlie letter in his hand, when, just at
this instant a gentleman in a bhie suit, with
brass buttons on his coat, proceeded towards him
and inquired what had he lost ? Ho answered,
nothing sir, only ho wished to be directed to the
Windsor Hotel.

" My brave young lad," said the policeman,
" you have a great distance to travel before you
reach the Windsor Hotel. You must t:ike a bus."
Come, I'll see you on the right track. (He takes
him to the centre of the street, liails an omnibus,
instructs the guard to let the lad otf at the
Windsor liotel.)

'J'his, was all a mystery to him. He could not
understand his whereabouts, and sat in silence
watching the rushing tlirong still going to and
fro and the numei-ous vehii-les, witli their drivers,
driving forward along Pall Mall, that busy
thoroughfare. It disturbe<l all his memory and
caused him nmch inconvenience. The iruard
forgetting to let him off at the Windsor Hotel,
he had to be transferred to a passing bus, re-
turning in the opposite direction. This time he
was more alert and inquired of a passenger to
inform him when the bus arrived at the Windsor
Hotel. As soon as it arrived the passenger in-
formed him, but the guard did not stop the bus
and he ventured to step oft' while it was in
motion. However, he stumbled and fell back-
ward on his back near the gutter by the side-

60 Alvika, alias Orea.

walk. A vast crowd congregated about him.
Some of the passers-by assisted and raised
him to his feet, but he could not stand or walk a
step. The passers-by inijuired as to where they
would take him ? He handed them a letter and
they read the address, after which they pro-
ceeded and took him to the Windsor Hotel and
laid him on a sofa in tlie office and departed from
liim.

He was more seriously hurt than he expected.
The officer sent for the doctor to come and ex-
amine him. 1'hu doctor arrived quickly and
found tiiat a rib was displaced. He then sent
for the ambulance coach and had him conveyed
to the hospital where the patient arrived in due
time, and was placed on a bed in one of tlie
wards wliere practical nursc-s atten<led him. All
this time he did not im'ntion who he was or
where he came from. He was given a stimulant
and afterwards the dwctur operated o!i his rib
and replaced it wliere it belonged.

The doctor then instructed the nurse to watch
him while he was in so sound a sleep and left
her a draught prepared, ordering her to give it
to the patient when he awakened. The doctor
then departed. The passenger whom the lad
gave his mother's letter to must have been very
unthoughful, for he put the letter in his pocket
where it lay for a day or two. Accidentally, he
found it there and was surprised, then proceeded

Alviba, aijas Orka.

instantly to the Windsor Hotel and handed the
letter to the clerk in the office, instructing^ him to
give it to the Duchess Davenport. The clerk
sent it with a messenoer to the Duchess Daven-
port: she opening it and reading the contents
was astounded on finding it to he her own letter
which she sent to her son. This puzzled her in-
genuity, and she could not comprehend it.
However, she proceeded directly to telegraph to
her son, whom she thought was still in Daven-
port, although she was expecting his arrival here
shortly.

She received a reply from the manager, in-
forming her that her son had dcjjfjrted for
London a week before, that being all they knew
of him. After recevinfj this information from her
manager, she returns to the Windsor Hotel, con-
siderinfif verv much and thinking what would be
the best thing to do. At length she thought
that if he was lost in London, he would surely
tell that he was the son of the Duchess Daven-
port, who at present is residing at the Windsor
Hotel. She scans over the morning papers to see
if there be any account of finding him, and in
unfolding the paper looks up the account of the
" Lost " and " Found " when behold, on looking
down the column, she reads the following :

" A strange country lad fell off the mail coach
at Piccadilly Square, and displaced one of his
ribs. He was taken to the hospital and is now

^>2 Alvira, alias Orea.

lyinw there, filightly improving. Unfortunately
the hid will not disclose any details ahout him-
self, not even where he resided, but continually
remarks that his mother will cnme and take him
nvvay."

The Duchess Davenport almost fainted while
.sitting in her chair ; only one of her attendants
found her in that disagreeable condition, and
sent instantly for a doctor. However it happened
to be the same doctor who made his appearance
and attended her unfortunate son.

The doctor at once prepared a draught and
compelled her to take it. She soon revived after
taking it and was herself again.

She then explained to the doctor what caused
her trouble, by jiointing to the letter and news-
paper lying at her feet, then pointing to a place
in the paper where it stated a boy was found,
and desired the doctor to read it. The doctor
obeyed and was also astonished, saying: "Madam,
I attended y- uir son yesterday. He fell from the
mail coach and displaced a rib. I replaced it all
right to its proper place; he is progressing favor-
ably, I having departed just from there. Had I
known he was your son, I could have informed
you last evening."

" Well, doctor, your draught has given me
great relief, for wdiich I am thankful to you.
Would you please to order a conveyence and
have my son brought to me, and you will be
rewarded by me," says Duchess Davenport.

Alviha, alias Orka.

" Maduin, undoubtedly 1 will do unytliint( for
you and your son," replies the doctor.

" Thank you very much, my doctor," replies the
Duchess. " I will obey your commands instantly.
Please, do my bidding and rest yourself until I re-
turn with your boy. By this time he will be strong
enouEfh to be removed," remarked the doctor,
who proceeds to engage a conveyance, and ar-
rives at the hospital in quick time, informs the
hoy that he has found his mother, which de-
lighted Idm. The doctor finds he is strong
enougli to leave the room, and prepared him.
He also assists him to where the conveyance is
waiting. All being arranged (piickly, they de-
part for the Windsor Hotel, and on arriving
there they meet the Duchess Daveu])ort, who
embraces her lost boy, he being equally delighted
at seeing her once more.

The Duchess Davenport thanks the doctor
very much and politely handed him a cheque on
the Bank of London, for which he made a
humble courtesy and departed.

There was a special apartment prepared for
the young patient until he was convalescent,
where his mother attended to his wants, sup-
plying him with everything she thought of to re-
vive him.

He related to her all that had transpired since
he left Davenport, she ])atting her poor boy and
saying she would not let him depart from her

G4 AlATHA, AIJAS OUKA.

si^lit a^'iiii). He vvassatistieil with her kiinliicsH.
uiid voiy (piickly ncoveiod, and acconipanicMl
licr on l()n<( drives which they ho' }i (.>iijoyed very
much.

The late Duke ol' Davenport was very weldoni
ill her company at this tin»e, and knew not of
his son's acci(h;nt, tor he IVcMjuented Mont<! (.^irlo,
won and h)Ht thousands, and deceived the patient-
bearing- Duchess Davenport, wlio never tlnvarted
him, l}ut concealed hi-^ (h'praved life from society
as long as she was able.

It was then her own misfortunes came upon
her, whicli was related in the former part of the
story, when troubles, misfortunes, crowded down
upon her. The Duke's death, also the loss of the
young lady, Alvira, a bright young pu[iil whom
she selected from a lady's conservatory in Cam-
biidge, and sent her to Leipsic, Germany, to com- \

plete her musical education. A fterwards she sent
a manager and instructor to prepare for her tour j

throughout Europe. They both were drowned. . j

This destroyed all her brilliant prospects at that ' |

tiinCj but fortune returned to her again in some ?

mysterious way, she knew not.

Her son finished his education at college, where
he won high honors, and is now residing with
her in London, where they are now preparing to
go travelling on the continent of Europe. They
intend visiting their old estate in Davenport,
having received an invitation from the present

Alvika, alias Orea. 66

owner. It will undoubtedly recall many pleasant
recollections to their memories of the years gone
past.

After a month's residence in London, Orea and
Don Rosario proceeded to Davenport after
viewing the sights of London, where they spent
a most pleasant time, attending their accepted
invitations, which were numerous, but caused
them great delay in proceeding to Davenport.
Now they departed with the tranquil wishes and
compliments of all their numerous friends.

We will now return to the Davenport estate,
where Orea is daily expected to arrive. The
steward of his estate has been very busy in
preparing and replacing articles of value which
Orea sent home, they being presented to him
from his patrons — rich treasures of great
value.

Here, dwelling in his magnificent chateau,
where all artifices and decorations are contained,
what more could a mortal being desire of this
world's gifts humanity does not understand.

Orea arrives for the first time to behold his
future home and great estate, surpassing his
most sanguine expectations. He never compre-
hended such a picturesque and romantic pros-
pective which he now beholds, and remarks to
Don Rosario :

" It is really all a paradise wherein to reside
on this earth."
5

ifr

Alvika, alias Orea.

" You speak, Orea, most emphatically words of
\N isdom," remarks Don Rosario.

" Come, my trusted and faithful Don Rosario,
to my private apartment in my chateau where
we can settle our business now that we have
leisure, in our retirement."

" Lead to your private apartment and I will
follow you," remarked Don Rosario.

When seated in his private apartment, face to
face, master and manager, pupil and instructor,
here to dissolve partnership and the conditions
of agreement we made when we first met each
other in Leipsic —

" That agreement is now, my manager, dis-
solved, and we have now liberty, each of us, to
renew our former Christian names."

" You will do as I propose, since the time
we made the agreement, when success may
crown our efforts for the way you conducted
everything successfully, which indeed gave us
success. Will you still continue in that ca-
pacity ? "

Don Rosario answers " Yes."

" Then I will address you in your Christian
name, Alfred Tremble. Also I will dispense
with my male attire and resume my female
attire and Christian name, Alvira Dunbar.
This will surprise the world. We will keep it
secret from the world yet awhile."

" The visit of the Duchess Davenport and her

Alvira, alias Orea.

son, the young Duke, who are expected to arrive
here shortly— we must prepare to receive them.
Her arrival will give you contentment," ex-
pressed Alfred Tremble.

" Will you now please inform me what amount
of money there is in the bank to our account
since you informed me last before we came
here ? " inquires Alvira.

" I have prepared a statement of our account.
There is now, after paying all expenses on our
travels and the amount of the purchase and the
repairing of the estate that cost you fifty
thousand pounds sterling, there still remains
one hundred and fifty thousand pounds to be
shared between us three— you, the Duchess
Davenport and myself. I now desire you to
divide this amount in three portions," states
Alfred Tremble.

" Alfred Tremble, you were my manager. I
leave it with you to decide the proportion each
one of us will have," remarks Orea.

" Excuse me, Alvira Dunbar, you have the
best right to apportion it," remarks Alfred
Tremble.

" Well, will you be satisfied if I apportion it
to the best of my judgment ?" asks Alvira Dun-
bar. Alfred Tremble replying " Yes."

"Then I will divide it in this way: Fifty
thousand to you, fifty to the Duchess Daven-
port and fifty to myself. Are you now satisfied ? "
asks Alvira Dunbar.

Alvira, alias Orea.

!r::

" No ; there is not justice in that for yourself
to share with us equally," remarks Alfred
Tremble.

" Have you forgotten the amount I expended
on purchasing and repairing my estate ? " asks
Alvira Dunbar.

" Even that you are entitled to more, as you
have been the founder of our success. Without
you we would have nothing," replies Alfred
Tremble.

" You are very considerate about my welfare,
for which I esteem you ; and I am satisfied,
knowing you are true to me. This fifty thou-
sand pounds is for the Duchess Davenport — you
can give her half and I will give her the other
half, also you can inform her that you were the
friend who assisted her. She will then not be
displeased with us, and you can relate to her
all our romance, saying it was all accomplished
for her benefit because it was her benevolent
effort in preparing me for what I accomplished,"
remarks Alvira Dunbar.

" You speak sensibly. I am willing to consent
to your proposal. It is honest and straight-
forward. Just as I speak the door-bell rings.
The messenger enters with a telegram from the
Duchess of Davenport stating they have arrived
in Liverpool and will proceed directly to Daven-
port. This will wind up the whole transaction,"
remarks Alfred Tremble

Alvira, alias Orea.

"As soon as they arrive it will give vsatisfac-
tion to us all, will it not, Alfred Tremble? " asks
Alvira Dunbar.

" Yes, their arrival is desirable at this time ;
and when they arrive your steward will receive
them during our absence, also escort them to the
reception room, and when we arrive back again
he will introduce us to them."

" The Duchess Davenport herself will be sur-
prised at recognizing us, for she believed we were
drowned. I will appear in the same apparel
which I wore when departing from her to join
you in Leipsic. You will also appear in your
female attire, then she will at once recognize you
as her lost Alvira," speaks Alfred Tremble.

" You have considered this matter out correct-
ly. It will undoubtedly be the most practicable
way to approach the subject."

Hark ! the outer door bell rings, a messenger
proceeds with a card to Alvira, announcing the
arrival of the Duchess and the young Duke.

The steward receives them and escorts them
to the reception room, inviting them to be seat-
ed, he seating himself beside them, and leads in
conversation by inquiring, "How did they appre-
ciate their tour on the continent of Europe ? "

"We were exceedingly interested in all we
saw. Our enjoyment wi.s so satisfying that we
were not anxious to return back to London. Only
for that we would have remained much longer.

70 Alvira, alias Or fa.

and having to meet Orea and Don Rosario, we
came immediately here," remarks the Duchess
Davenport.

They were both delighted at receiving
your telegram, informing them of your ar-
rival in Liverpool," replies the steward,
■' and I am exceedingly disappointed at their ab-
sence. They were not expecting your arrival
until to-morrow. They intended returning late
to-night. Now, will you please accompany me
to their reception room, and I will leave you
there until I return again with some refreshments
which you no doubt require after your fatiguing
journey ? " \

" I thank you kindly for your consideration,"
replies the Duchess Davenport.

" After you are both refreshed and rested you
will retire to the sitting room where I will en-
lighten you in a problem you never solved, which
may prove this visitation not to be fruitless to
you and your son," says the steward.

" Ah, sir, this is exceedingly welcome news to
receive from your lips, this acceptable, glad tid-
ings of prospects unknown is a tribute from Orea
and Don Rosario," states Duchess Davenport.
" Now, pardon me; as I have other business to at-
tend I must retire. When you desire going to
your sleeping apartments, just touch this button
and the chambermaid will answer and escort you
there until the morrow when Orea and Don

Alvira, alias Orea. 71

Rosario will arrive and be prepared to receive
you. I will bring you to their apartments.
Until then I bid you adieu."

After the steward depaited from them, the
Duchess Davenport remarked to her son : " That
problem he spoke about, which I had not solved,
is a mystery to me that I do not comprehend."

" Mother, we have yet to solve that problem.
This will transpire during our interview with
Orea and Don Rosario, that is my opinion. Their
absence at our arrival is strange indeed, mother.
Things may yet transpire as the steward stated
that our visitation would not be fruitless. By
this, we may receive some surprise unexpected.
Mother, let it not disturb you. Go to your
apartment to derive sleep and rest. 1 will to
mine also, as I am weary and tired. In the
morning we will arise refreshed and be prepared
to interview Orea and Don Rosario."

They retired and arose refreshed and content-
ed with what transpired since their arrival in
Davenport, also made }ireparations for their in-
terview with Orea and Don Rosario. They
waited patiently for the steward to arrive and
escort them to the presence of their eminently
respected patrons.

The steward arrived at their apartments and
bade them good morning, and inquired if they
had rested well during the night.

" Yes, sir, I slept remarkably well, and my son
has just informed me he did the same."

72 Alvira, alias Orea.

" Duchess Davenport, you and your son may
come to the dining-room where you can order
what food you desire to partake of, then after-
wards proceed to the drawing room where Orea
and Don Rosario will appear and welcome you.
They were delighted when I informed them of
your arrival last night and are exceedingly
anxious to have an interview with you now.
They retire to the drawing-room, where they
await Orea and Don Rosario, they not having
to wait long, for instantly Orea and Don Rosario
made their appearance, advancing towards the
Duchess Davenport, who excl«<imed " Alvira ! "

" You are the Duchess of Da onport, are you
not ? " asks Alvira.

This sudden appearance of Alvira, whom the
Duchess Davenport thought was drowned, gave
her such a shock that she lost all consciousness
and she could not utter a single word.

The young Duke tried to assist his mother by
raising her to a sitting position, then he address-
ed Alvira as " Madam."

•* Your presence has startled my mother. We
were both expecting Orea and Don Rosario and
you appeared instead. Please be you both seat-
ed. She will soon revive. Perhaps you have
come to interview Orea and Don Rosario just as
we came ?" inquires the young Duke.

" No, sir," replies Don Rosario, "we have come
to interview your mother and you. Do you not

Alvira, alias Orea.

recognize me ? I made your acquaintance be-
fore."

" I do recollect your face. If I am not mis-
taken, you were the manager of the renowned
" Orea " during his appearance in Liverpool, were
you not ? " inquired the young Duke.

" Yes, sir, you have succeeded in identifying
me, and I have not the least doubt but your
mother will also identify me as I made her
acquaintance in time past when she engaged me
as her agent. I have been transacting her busi-
ness ever since, and I am prepared to settle up
that business when she survives," remarks Don
Rosario.

" Please, sir, who is this young lady that is
attending to my mother?" asks the young
Duke.

'• I will inform you when she revives from her
shock. See, she is improving wonderfully ; she
will regain her presence of mind immediately,
then I will enlighten her and you in this mys-
tery," says Don Rosario.

The Duchess Davenport revives and, opening
her eyes, looks straight at Alvira's face, remark-
ing, " Are you not Alvira ? "

Alvira answers, " Yes, good Duchess Daven-
port ; I am your lost Alvira."

This conversation between the Duchess Daven-
port and Alvira astonished her son, and he
whip ^ed to Don Rosario to adjourn with him

74 Alvira, alias Orea.

to an adjoining compartment, where he addressed
Don Rosario thus :

" Please, sir, relate to me this agonizing
mystery that annoys my mother and I, keeping
us continually in great torment since we arrived
here ? "

" Well, Duke, we were g(»ing to explain all
when we entered your apartment, only for what
occurred to Duchess Davenport, your mother.
Now that we have retired here, I will relate to
you all pertaining to this mystery which annoyed
your mother and you so much. You may not
be aware that your mother engaged me to pro-
ceed to Leipsic as instructor and manager to
Alvira, her young musical friend whom she had
taken from a musical conservatory in Cambridge,
and accompanied her to Leipsic, left her there
to complete her musical education.

" When I arrived in Leipsic, I made her ac-
quaintance, my letters to her from your mother
being my first introduction. I also heard of
your father's misfortune and that the estate was
to be sold. During my journey, hearing of your
father's death, also of your mother retiring from
her chateau at the Davenport estate, I sin-
cerely thought of her downfall, surmising she
would be reduced in circumstances, so I commu-
nicated to Alvira about her. She was consider-
ably grieved about her noble benefactor, inquir-
ing of me if I could propose any way to assist

Alvira, alias Orea.

her, as she herself was exceedingly anxious to
help her. Then I proposed this proposition,
knowing it would be to the Duchess Davenport's,
also to Alvira's and my own advantage.

" Alvira l^eing a young lady, could never be a
success as a pianoforte exponent ; then I advised
her to forsake her sex and attire in male gar-
ments, also to change her name to Orea. This
she was willing to adhere to, as it would be more
successful. Then she said that she would per-
form any action to assist the Duchess Davenport
if it would be to her advantage. Then I advised
her to get leave of absence from her principal to
accompany a friend of hers for a sail on the
Rhine River, in Germany. He granted her re-
quest. Then we proceeded to Paris, where we
assumed other names, Alvira taking " Orea," and
I taking " Don Rosario." Afterwards we toured
throughout Europe, where Orea received adora-
tions wherever he appeared. This enterprising
transaction proved to be abundantly successful.
Then Alvira proposed to me on sending ten
thousand pounds to your mother, for which I
congratulate her. I also subscribed ten thousand
pounds to hers, and despatched it to an agent in
London, who delivered it directly to your mother,
informing her it was from a friend she knew and
would again know. She then desired me to
appoint this same agent to purchase the Duke's
estate in her name, which I accomplished to both

76 Alviua, alias Orea.

our satisfaction. Alter parting from you in
London, we proceeded to Alvira's estate, where
we transacted a settlement between Alvira, your
mother and myself. The amount we had to our
credit after purchasing the estate, paying all
expenses for the repairing and finishing of it,
amounted to one hundred and fifty thousand
pounds sterling. Then Alvira divided this
amount between your mother, herself and I,
which we considered a just transaction, credit-
able to us all.

" Now, Duke Montague, I have solved the
problem to you. We will now return to your
mother and Alvira ; by this time she will have
solved the problem to her, I having only to hand
her my share of the fifty thousand pounds, which
makes twenty-five thousand for me. It is very
likely Alvira has given her share to your
mother."

They proceed io their apartments, where they
left Duchess Davenport and Alvira. As they
entered, they were mystified at their absence,
then they summoned the steward to appear and
explain their actions. He informed them they
departed by the eastern entrance and now are
walking arm in arm, Alvira showing the Duchess
Davenport the improvements she accomplished
after taking possession of the Duke's old estate.

" We will follow them," remarks Alfred
Tremble.

Alvira, alias Orea. 77

" I am willing to accompany you," replies
Duke Montague. "Alvira may have explained
our romance much quicker than I have done to
you. Look, yonder they are resting by yon
rippling brook that flows down through the
garden. They notice us approaching," says
Alfred Tremble.

" Will we disturb them or not?" inquired Duke
Montague.

" We better not appear, they do not desire any
intruders, they prefer being alone. We will now
return to the chateau and await their return.
In the meantime I will escort you through the
interior of your old chateau, and you will witness
the magnificent improvements that have taken
place since your parents occupied it."

Through every apartment Alfred Tremble
guided him, the young Duke remarking, " The
artist who designed these decorations must have
made a great effort in his art, they are so attrac-
tive to the eye of the beholder. No critic can
find a flaw to criticise. This must have cost
Alvira a vast amount of wealth."

" Yes, it has been very expensive, indeed,"
answers Alfred Tremble.

" Mr. Tremble, does she intend remaining here
and retiring from her profession altogether ? "
asks Duke Montague.

" Well, she has not decided on that just at
present. I understand she will remain here, en-

78 Alvira, alias Ore a.

joying this delightfui home and pleasant situa-
tion, which she a<hnires with great achniration."

" Montague, look, here they are coining to the
chateau. When they arrive I shall introduce
you to Alvira. She recognized you when she
went to assist your mother."

"Are you speaking now the truth, Alfred
Tremble ? "

" Yes, sir. Don't you remember in Liverpool,
when you addressed her as Orea, she knew you
were the young Duke and hail much respect for
you. Before we departed to London she visited
your mother in her box in the theatre ; on that
occasion, then, you conversed with me, relating
all about your youthful career," remarks Alfred
Tremble.

" I comprehend it, Alfred Tremble, very well,"
says Duke Montague.

" Now they have arrived in their apartments
we will go to them."

They went and found them in conversation.
They welcomed us back.

" Alvira, allow me to introduce you to young
Duke Montague. Remember, I introduced him
to you when you were Orea — when you were
personating a man."

" Yes, Mr, Tremble, I had the honor of making
her acquaintance at the time when she wore
male attire.

'•' I am quite satisfied and delighted with what

Alvira, alias Orea.

I saw ; it being a surprise to me to view my old
home now, so substantial in its completion."

" Duke Monta^'ue, I am now simple Alvira,
wliom your mother befriended by sending me to
Leipsic to complete my musical education. You
are convinced of the rest ? " remarks Alvira.

"Have you settled your account with the
Duchess Davenport ? " inquires Alfred Tremble.
She answering him, "Yes; and I explained
all about our romance, and it astonished her
greatly."

" Now, good Duchess you must accept the
same amount from me as you accepted from
Alvira," remarks Alfred Tremble.

" Oh, kind sir ! this is indeed gratitude re-
turned tenfold. I never anticipated receiving
such an amount of wealth, and I am also thank-
ful at being informed that you and Alvira sent
me the twenty thousand pounds by an agent in
London, which I received from him — he relating
to me it was from a friend who knew me, and
would again ; so I found him out to be truthful
and trustworthy. Part of that amount I gave
to Mr. Dunbar, Alvira's father, to purchase a
dwelling for himself, wife and family, he having
informed me that he spent all the wealth he
made during his lifetime searching for Alvira.
He was in very poor circumstances at that
period— like myself, he thinking he would not
find his Alvira again," speaks Duchess Daven-
port.

80 Alvira, alias Orea.

" Are tliey comfortably situated in their pre-
sent dwelling ? " asks Alvira.

" They were when last I parted from them.
Then, with part of the twenty thousand, I pur-
chased a valuable residence in the most delight-
ful locality in London, wliere my son and I
resided until we went on a journey to the
Continent, and then returned here at your
invitation, which has given us such a surprise
that we were not expecting. How marvelous |

is our Almighty Father, who leads and guides j

us through life ! I am confident He ordains all §

things which transpires to His people on this 1

sphere," remarks Duchess Davenport.

"Good Duchess Davenport, will you please
remain Iiere with us, for Alvira and myself will
be delighted at you and your son remaining in
our company ? We will make things exceed-
ingly pleasant for you."

" Sir, I have not the least desire to return to
my residence in London until I receive more of
your kind hospitality. My son has also in-
formed me that he desires to remain here
longer, he being so infatuated with young
Alvira," remarks Duchess Davenport.

" I have no doubt of that, Duchess Davenport.
When on our travels sI.\o often inquired about
him. I informed her of his good attributes, and
it seemed to please her very much. I saw them
going forth to enjoy recreation in the garden

■t

Alvira, alias Okea. 81

If it be your pleasure we will take an outing in
the garden also. It will improve our appetite
tor our dinner when we return," says Alfred
Tremble.

" Yes, Mr. Tremble, I am perfectly willing to
accompany you to the garden," replies Duchess
Davenport.

" Then I will pick some choice flowers for you
as a remembrance of your coming with me "
remarks Alfred Tremble.

"Oh, thank you. Mr. Tremble, very much!
1 take it as an honor to accompany you after
the kindness I received from you."

" Don't mention it. 'Twas just what you
would accomplish for me had I occupied your
place, for I have heard when abroad of your
benevolence, although you were almost reduced
to poverty-that caused me to have an affection-
ate compassion for you in your widowhood
Anything I can accomplish for your welfare I
will be delighted to have it executed at once."

" Why, sir, you have already given me all I
desire, except you give me yourself to be mv
second husband and share ,iiy wealth with me ?
tor it was you gave me it all."

"Good Duchess Davenport, you offered me
yout affection before I could summon enough
courage to ask you to be my wife. There has
never been another female who won my heart
as you, my dear Duchess Davenport, have done
6 '

ALYIUA, AI IAS OllEA.

and should you desire to take me as a husband
I will marry you at the earliest opportunity."

'• We may be too rash in contracting this in-
gagement. I <lesire some leisure to consult with
my son, replies Duchess Davenport."

" Your son, madam, if I am not mistaken, is
infatured with young Alviia, also she with him,
so there may be another marriage that shall

transpire."

" I never once thought of that ; it will be a
strange coincident if such a thing should tran-
spire. She to many my son, and you, me, both
our benefactors. This turn of affairs to my boy
and myself is a greater mystery than what has
already transpired during our acquaintance."

"Yes, good Duchess Davenport, it is un-
doubtedly a second mystery which you have

solved.

"I propose we will now summon to our
presence your son and Alvira to inform them
of our engagement. You may have a private inter-
view with your son, while I adjourn to converse
with Alvira also, privately. They are, at the
present time, enjoying pleasure in the flower
house in the center of the garden. I will de-
spatch a messenger with instructions, inquiring
if they will kindly return to the chateau, as the
Duchess Davenport is desirous to have an in-
terview with her son on serious matters, per-
taining to him and his mother. When they

Alvira, alfas Orea.

;

•■

arrive I will meet them and direct your son to
your apartment, where you will have him to
yourself to consult with him about our under-
taking this solemn engagement of matrimony."
"In the meantime I will take Alvira to an-
other apartment and inform her of my engage-
ment to you, her former benefactor." At this
time they were returning to the chateau.
Alfred Tremble proceeds to meet them at the
outer door, desiring Duke Montague to go to his
mother's apartment as she is desirous to converse
with him. He went directly to her, I following
Alvira to another private apartment and ad-
dressed her in these words : " Alvira, I never
took an undue advantage of you in any of our
numerous business transactions, nor will not now.
Listen to what I am going to relate to you.

" The Duchess Davenport has informed me of
her affection, to which I answered in return—
' Good Duchess Davenport, I loved you from the
first time I met you, and have done so ever since.'
Then I inquired of her if she would marry me.
She answered, I shall instantly, as expeditiously,
as I consult with my son. Should my son be
favorable I shall marry you, become your wife,
for you- have made me what I am, rescuing me
from poverty. My son has just related to me,
before his departure, his unanimous respect and
approval for your action and sympathy, which
surpasses and astonishes him beyond comparison

84 Alvuu, alias Orea.

with anything that ere transpired during his
former Hfe."

" Duchess, for his welfare, I an) acting for liis
interests always.

The Duchess Davenport retires.

" Alvira, are you satisfied for me to become
the Duchess' husband ?"

" You could not find a more worthy spouse to
choose. Her wealth and yours, I think, should
satisfy you both during your lifetime," says
Alvira.

"You speak, Alvira, most tiutiifully, but it
causes me much sorrow parting from you so
suddenly ; even when I becouie her husband you
shall enjoy our comj)anionship. You aie not to
])art forever, away from us and the young Duke,
who shall now be my son-in-law.

" Alvira, however sincerely I desire your com-
panionship, the Duchess has decided to return to
reside in her new residence in London," remarks
Alfred Tremble.

" Alvira, when you retire there then you have
deserted from me. I must remain alone as a
lonely hermit, dwelling in this chateau which I i

anticipated sharing with you."

" Now you are taking to yourself a wealthy
Duchess, you sincerely cannot have any respect
for me hereafter, or interest," says Alvira.

" Alvira, do you imagine that I would desert
you and be so ungentlemanly to you ? Remember

Alviha. alias Orea.

wlien I consoled with you at the time we were
travelling together, you always gave in to what
I proposed, and I never transacted any business
without your knowledge and consent. Because
the Duchess loves me and accepts me as her hus-
band, you imagine lam going away to leave you
entirely. It is a false conception on your part,
Alvira, and displaces your memory when you
accuse me of such ungratefulness, especially me,
who has been with you continually until the
present time.

" Listen : here is a secret which Duchess Daven-
port informs me of, which I shall relate to you,
about her son the young Duke. He inquired of
his mother if she would have no objection
at him proposing to marry you, Alvira; he
stating to his mother that he loved you exceed-
ingly, sincerely ; that you appeared to have the
same affection and regard for him."

" Well, Mr. Tremble, did you inquire of the
Duchess if her son said he had affection for me
in return for mine ? "

" Yes, Alvira, he informed his mother of that,
also he related this, that he appeared somewhat
backward in approaching the subject to you at
that time, but since he departed from you he
wonderfully braced up his courage for a second
opportunity to propose to you, and he also stated
that if he succeeded in winning your affection
and you consent to beconie his darling wife.

86 Alvira, alias Orea.

"The Duchess answered her son that you would
be her daughter-in-law and benevolent benefac-
tor, then she would admire you always.

"Now, Alvira, are you cognizant of our en-
gagement?" asked Alfred Tremble.

" Well, Mr. Tremble, her son informed me of
your engagement to her and I have no objection
to your marrying her should you receive her
son's consent to the union between you two, but
for yourself I had exceeding love, because you
were instrumental in making me what I am,
what I was and what I am not, because you have
not given me generosity, for that feeling is in
my heart and past my comprehension and I can-
not analyze it. I would not, I cannot relate to
you what is working in my brain,— every real
need of my nature is by you denied. Long ago,
every thought of my brain and also my heart
has been so long stimulated with love for you.
" Now, here face to face with you, who was so
true and noble of heart, pure and true, thinking
I had only to ask you to be my husband— after
all for us two, who are both curious and experi-
mental, it may be worth trying. What happi-
ness, what emancipation, what deeper meaning
may lie in the simple, every-day experience
of man and wife. You no longer look at me, you
seem to be angry with me, a different feeling al-
together from the way you treated me before. I
am much mistaken with your complacency, as a

■;

Alvira, alias Ohea.

man who has not kept to his pledge. So Mr.
Tremble, now we part and friendly."

At this moment the young Duke Montague
appears and related the following to his mother :

" Mother, I shall endeavor to arrange an inter-
view with Alvira and make my request known
to her. If she refuses to accept me, I shall re-
turn with Mr. Tremble and you to your London
residence and end my life as a bachelor, as I
never hereafter will recognize or give my affec-
tion to another woman."

" Well, my son, ' Faint heart never won fair
lady,' You must have perseverance and dexterity
to win her affection and consent. Should you
accomplish your purpose, you shall win a fair
woman who will bring you wealth, also your
father's estate and the Dukedom of Davenport.
Your prospect is in the ascendan* ; should all
transpire as we expect, then all mysteries

shall be solved, brighter prospect .liall remain
with us throughout our remaining life."

" Well, mother, I anticipate your desires shall
be executed to our satisfaction. Now I will
depart to interview Alvira, inquiring of her if
she will accept me as her husband."

He departs from his mother on this crusade to
win or fail. During his absence his mother's
thoughts were upon him, wondering if he would
be successful or not.

" My husband and myself shall enable him to

88 Alviua, alias Orea.

enter into an lionorable and profitable business,
where lie will be independent of Alvira."

"You have arrived in time. I was anxious
for your arrival, for 1 have some special news to
relate to you. My son, before your arrival has
departed from me to interview Alvira in her
apartment on an exceedingly important matter,
to inquire if she shall become his wife ; but, as
before, he may lose courage and return without
proposin^r to her, for he is decidedly backward
with ladies as the late Duke, his father, was,"
speaks Duchess Davenport.

" Ducliess, 1 have now returned from being in
her company for the past hour, where she con-
versed with me in regard to your son's amiable
disposition and courtesy of manner, stating to
me she had the deepest affection and adoration
for him, but before consenting to his proposal she
is desirous of knowing if you are agreeable that
their marriage shall take place, as she believes
you did not desire to part with your son, even
though I am to be your husband."

"Mr. Tremble, you inform her I have no ob-
jection to my son joining with her in matrimony,
only a kind desire that they both live and
prosper and be happy in life. This is all the
satisfaction I desire. Relate to her this infor-
mation, if you please, and inform her of my
desiring an interview with her in regard to our
projective marriage — that is, should she consent

AlVIRA, alias ()|{KA

to become my dau;,'hter-in-lavv, which I shall he
informed of when my son returns from liis
interview with her.

" When my son parted with me to interview
Alvira, he found her in grief and sorrow. In-
quiring what was it that troubled her so
exceedingly as she appeared to be, Alvira
answered him that her grief was her own and
that she had no one to bear it for her, but linger
on and suffir loneliness and retirement. It will
kill her outright after her former stirring life.
She never calculated on having to remain here
a lonely hermit, deserted by her former instructor
and companion on her starring days throughout
Europe. Those were the days that gave her
opportunity to enjoy bright prospects for the
future. Now she is situated at a disadvantage
by her instructor deserting her— here where he
promised to abide with her until each of their
lives were ended— just because she said I de-
ceived her by turning you against her, to win
you for myself ! Ingratitude for gratitude for
me.

" My son also impressed upon her that it was
all a misunderstanding on her part, a complete
transparency of her former opinion regarding
me, who would not commit a mean action in
regard to her benefactor, and I never expected
that her instructor and companion would be a
suitor for my heart and hand. However, Alvira

90 Alvira, alias Ouea.

was told not to let this thought annoy or disturb
her, as I was still her best friend and benefactor.
It was nie who despatched my son to propose to
her to become his wife, and for him to bring
Alvira to my apartment to bless them both, my
son, stating to Alvira that he loved her dearly,
in(|uiring if she would accept him as her
husband ?

'' Alvira answered him that she could not de-
cide that desire of his at present, altliough she
respected him very much, for he was always
obedient and dutiful to me, his wiilowed mother,
when I suffered distress, also misfortune on my
husband's account — who died by dissipation —
which left me broken-hearted. She then told
him that she was not settled in her opinion,
agreeing to marry him until she made his
acquaintance more than what she has accom-
plished up to the present time ; also for him to
have patience for a period to see what will
transpire hereafter when her partner and me
settle down to married life in my resid<^nce in
the best residential location in London, where
we retire from Davenport.

" Alvira understanding it to be our desire to
remain there perpetually in peaceful unison
while, passing our days in comfortable circum-
stances, living together.

" Then Alvira inquired of my son if she was
wearying him with her recital ; he answering

Alviha, ai-ias Orea.

her that he coulil remain there continually un(i
listen to her sweet, melodious voice, as she has
spoken and related to liim his disappointment,
iilso failure of not receivinj^ her to be his wife.
My son beseech iiif;- her to give him some comfort
before he departs from her, his only beloved
one, whom he loved most sincerely since the tirst
time he made her acquaintance — when he knew
not she was a female — and since her disguise
was discarded, he loved her desperately, al-
thoii^di she discarded him.

" Now, my boy had no prospects of the futui-e,
therefore he asked her to have pity on him,
stating that she would never regret it.

" Then Alvira told him not to persuade her for
an answer, as she was unable to disclose to him
her feeling, which is mournfully downcast with
sorrow and disappointment, that things which
lately transpired she never comprehended, and
it was a great astonishment to her. Then my
son stated he would desire very much to bear
sorrows and troubles for her, should it brino- her
back to her former self.

"Then she infoimed my son, as not compre-
hending what caused her grief and anxiety
since her return here, where she anticipated
having rest, comfort, contentment and enjoy-
ment.

"But, alas! she has none of the ^ reat attributes
that she so much expected on her returning here

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

1,0

I.I

1.25

|50 '*^'

Ui 111120

1.8

JA 1116

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Cp.

Alviha, alias Orea.

to lier chateau. She must forget the past and
boMly look to the future. She may conquer
again as she did in the first of her career when
I sent her to Leipsic — those being glorious days
for her and may be again by her own endeavor;
for she shall not remain idle and pass her life as
a hermit. Then my son asked her to come and
relate to me what she told him, as I also might
assist her to cast away all her gi ief and sorrow,
but she would not join his company by proceed-
ing with him to me. Then she said, ' 1 was the
cause of her sorrow and grief, although I con-
tinually respected her, and do still ; and while
she fails to understand things I cannot explain
to him. It is a mysterious feeling.'

" My son then stated if he could but pluck it
from out her brain he would trample it under
his feet, then she would regain her faculties to
continue her former task. She then remarked
to him not to let her detain him lons^er, as she
was not herself just at present, that in some
future time may converse with him and explain
matters to him, which at this present time he
could not comprehend. Then my son told her
that she could take his heart now or never. She
answered him that he spoke sincerely, and that
it touched her heart ; still circumstances debars
her from accepting him as her husband, although
she said at some future period it may be differ-
ent entirely, and that she would not lose confid-

A L VI HA, ALIAS OrEA.

ence in him, as prospects may turn out superior
to his estimation in the future. Then he in-
formed her that he would apologize to me, his
mother, on her behalf.

" I told my son to bring her with him, but she
would not accept my invitation, but informed
him to tell me that she would explain it all to
me at some future time when she has leisure,
and when her tortured memory revives, when
the dimness departs from her eyes, and her un-
derstanding returns. She may then think and
see as he thinks and sees. ! then they both
shall see eye to eye, and love again one another.
Parting with Alviragave him great pain.

" But Alvira still refused to give her affection
to him, although he told her that his affection
remains and grows stronger as time goes past.
In the future she may change her opinion, when
the darkness shall return to light. She will ex-
pect to hear from him when they part, trusting
that He who knows their minds and thoughts
will ever guide them.

"Then my son parted with Alvira and returned
to me, where I received him and inquired of him
why it was he did not bring Alvira with him as I
instruct! d him when hedeparted to visit her in her
own apartments, he having been in her company
for a long time, after which he approached the
subject to her, she would not answer him yes or
no, but continued speaking about things he could

Alviua, alias Orea.

not under'stand. Then when he informed her
that I desired an interview with her, she ap-
peared to be indifferent and exceedingly un-
natural in her ways, and did not have any of her
former frankness or exceedingly pleasant nature.
" Then when I asked my son if he inquired what
caused this sudden melancholy which so greatly
changed her disposition in legards to me, his
mother, he stated she appears to have some re-
markable affliction on her mind, for she is continu-
ally speaking about her former instructor, Alfred
Tremble, and that she is a lonely hermit now,
and likely to remain so in the future, as you, Mr.
Tremble, promised to pass your future life with
her on her estate when she purchased it, now
you have gone and desoited her to become my
husband; so Alvira anticipated passing her life
in enjoyment and recreation with you. You
made her life happy, prosperous beyond her for-
mer anticipation. Now she continually remarks
that she has to remain alone in her lonely
chateau, a friendless and forsaken creature away
from the companionship of her former life, where
she was courted as the only Orea, the celebrated
impressario. This account she related to my
son, and much more that she did not recollect,
except this, which she surmised, is a jealousy of
her, for me, wanting to marry you, Mr. Tremble.
I believe her whole heart is centered in you.
She seems to have given all her affection to you

Alvira, alias Orea.

and never thought once of loving my son, al-
though he energetically pressed his suit on her
— however, she would not accept him, but stated
she had respect for him and for me, his mother,
at one time. Now since things have tranapiked
to keep her apart from my son, also you, her
former instructor, and now stating that she would
make an effort to live by herself, spending her
income on the poor and needy who surround
this neighborhood, believing it was God's work,
and that it was he who gave it to her, and in
God's work she would spend it. She has still
her trusted steward, who will attend to her busi-
ness, he understanding all that is required on her
estate. She can rely on him, knowing he will
transact every requirement to her satisfaction.

" My son, inquiring if I would advise him to
relate this matter which will draw my attention
to this sudden change in our prospects, which
has not succeeded, as we desired, for my son has
failed completely in his desire, now he is going
to depart to a foreign country, for he cannot re-
main here any longer. His heart is broken, and
to revive it he must have new scenes and adven-
tures to arrest his memory away from the mis-
fortunes of the past, which have overwhelmed
him in sadness and despair. I advised him to
keep calm and not get excited, that he still will
have his mother, who always adores him, and I
will give him my love instead of Alvira's, for

Alvira, alias Orea.

ii'i:

her love was only ffirlish, it being what we call
passing love. My boy has been stunted in his
affection, and I know he deserves someone super-
ior to her.

" A man must be a coward to give way to his
first love. I believe, Mr. Tremble, you will wel-
come him as myself, to dwell with us in our
London residence, where he and I dwelt before.
You, my husband, shall not interfere with him,
so that our home he will appreciate like as he
did before. We will both assist him to enter
into business on Ids own account, then he will be
independent, this being my advice to my dear
boy, who requested from me this one favor, it
being to grant him the price of a commission,
also five thousand pounds, for he is going to join
the army, he having a noble comrade in the per-
son of Lord Lustre, who is also a Colonel in the
British Army, and he presses my son very eager-
ly to join his regiment, which is about to depart
to the Soudan, in Egypt.

" So he is desirous to join him, informing me
that it is his onlj^^ refuge at the present time. I
told him I would not thwart him in his purpose,
if he had fully considered the whole circum-
stance of the transaction himself.

" As a lieutenant in his regiment, he is desirous
of joining him, should I oblige him by purchas-
ing a commission for him, and also deposit five
thousand pounds in the Bank of England to his

li: I

Alvira, alias Orea.

credit, which he may draw on when abroad, if
he should be in want of it on any occasion. I
then inquired of my boy if ho resolved on this
enlistment for a certainty, and if he desired un-
dertaking and accomplishing it, I should have
no objection in granting his request, that is, for
to purchase him his commission in the army,
which will cost one thousand pounds, also give
him five thousand pounds to deposit in the Bank
of England at his credit, where he may draw any
reasonable amount he requires at his pleasure.
Now my son shall not forget me when he de-
parts from England. I have great expectations
of his success as a great soldier, and my desire is
that he shall return to me in London with honors,
also renowned glory, that shall make him wel-
tome to her Majesty the Empress Victoria and
all throughout her great empire. Then he will
be entitled to her respect and all society, and a
princess he may succeed in winning for a bride.
He answered me that he shall aspire to accom-
plish what I desire, at least he shall make a gal-
lant effort in that attempt to win fame."

At this incident the young Duke Montague
approaches his mother, she inquiring : " Well, my
son, when do you depart on your journey to
EgyP^' foj^ I have to make arrangements to give
you the amount to purchase your commission,
also to deposit the five thousand pounds in the
Bank of England at your credit, then I am done
7

1 1 1

98 Alvira, alias Orea.

with you at the present, and wish you success in
your endeavor, believing you shall triumph in
my expectation."

'• Well, mother, I trust I shall triumph as you
desire, and as I desire ; all shall then go happy
with us."

" Now come, accompany me to the bank, and
I will give you the amount of your commission,
and where I will deposit the five thousand
pounds to your credit, then we will part, I trust
not forever. I shall be looking forward for in-
telligence of your safe arrival in Egypt, to face
the unconquerable Dervishes who shall give the
brave Sirdar an opportunity to prove to the
world his qualifications in military tactics, to |

out-manoeuvre the enemy and defy them, for |

they are vast in number to fight the brave
British and Egyptian Army, led by the renowned
and celebrated Sir Kitchener, Great Britain's un-
conquerable Chieftain in Egypt."

The Duchess, with her son, proceeds to the
Bank of England, and she gives her order to the
Manager to draw from her account to the
amount of six thousand pounds sterling and
place it to her son's credit, and, when he desires
it, tc withdraw one thousand to purchase a com-
mission in the army. The Manager gives his
assistants instructions to transact the business
of exchange between her son and herself for
the amount ordered, which they accomplish to

Alvira, alias Orea.

their satisfaction. Then the Duchess gives her
son the amount he desires, with an order to
draw at any future period the amount deposited
in the Bank to his credit. After this transac-
tion was completed between her son and herself
they departed from each other, the Duchess
returning to her residence, her son proceeding to
the headquarters of the British Military estab-
lishment in London, where he purchased his
commission and received his passport, then he
proceeds to the Colonel of his regiment where
he takes the vow of allegiance to serve her
Majesty as a soldier in any part of her great
empire. This ceremony was accomplished to
the satisfaction of his Colonel. He was then
taken in charge by his Captain, who commanded
him to fall in with Company 10 as Lieutenant
Montague, which he instantly accomplished
after saluting his Colonel; then he retired to
his Company, joining his regiment. At this
incident there was a great hurry and bustle in
the regiment, for the Colonel received his orders
to embark on the 16 th for Egypt.

They then departed on their voyage and the
time passed quickly as they arrived in Alexan-
dria in due time. From there they proceeded
to the Nile River to meet with General Kitchener,
whose army is marching on to Omdurman to
attack the Dervishes in their securest strong-
hold, where they collect to await the coming

100

Alvira, alias Ouea.

'A I

contlict, which is to settle the destiny of Egypt.
Then the inhabitants of that hind shall regain
their liberty and freedom from serfdom and
from the tyrant Dervishes, who swayed their
power with tyrannical treachery to the humble
slaves of that ancient land which shall behold
more brighter days, with greater privileges,
governed by Great Britain, who destroys slavery,
giving liberty and freedom to her subjects.

Everywhere her banner sways o'er all her
vast empire. Who would not uphold her
standard would indeed be a slave.

No Britons would turn and shun the foe.

For Britons never, never, shall be slaves

Be it on land, or upon sea,

Britannia, Britannia, Britons shall defend thee.

Now, the Duchess Davenport and her intended
husband, Mr. A. Tremble, after taking leave
with young Alvira, departs to her residence and
settles down to enjoy wedded life, anticipating
spending her life in happiness and comfort.
She was received by her London acquaintances
with exceeding exultations, also finding her
household servants worthy of her trust, as on
her return she found everything in the most
perfect order, and her servants also were de-
lighted at her returning as Mrs. A. Tremble,
instead of, as before. Duchess Davenport.

Now, when Mr. and Mrs. Tremble departed
from Davenport to London, Alvira retired to a

AliVIllA, ALIAS OrEA.

101

private apartment to commune witli herself,
lier thoujrlits taking in her present position,
with all her responsibility now that she is left
alone in this lonely position. She then spoke
to herself, sayinj^ that she must endeavor to
find new associates also order her coachman to
bring her carriage and drive her all about the
estate and all around Davenport. By this well
planned contrivance she will make herself known
to society and need not pass her life in idleness.
Then her manager must be informed to give her
a statement of all her affairs under his control.
By this she will be kept from time to time very
busy. She also contemplates inviting the most
intellectual and respectable people of society to
participate in enjoyment and pleasure at her
chateau. Now she thinks, there's" the Lustre
family, including father, mother, two beautiful
daughters, and two strapping, stalwart young
sons, who are at present away in the army,
fighting for the Empress Victoria in the Soudan,
both brave young men, one a Colonel, the other
a Captain.

Then there's the Murrays, who have also a
noble family of boys and girls.

Then the StafFords, prominent people in this
neighborhood, the head of the family a Judge in
the Supreme Court.

Now, there's the great McPherson, a wealthy
retired gentleman of the old school — he is a

102

Alvira, alias Orea.

conundrum and another Carlyle. His logic is
wonderful, and just a person to entertain a
company of learned people. But the Honorable
Mr. O'Donaghue is of a different stamp to the
others; they say he's quite a comedian in his way,
and can keep a company interested for hours.

Now, my friend, Madam Leonard, keeps a
first-class boarding establishment, where all the
wealthiest bachelors reside, and everyone who
knows Madam Leonard predicts the gentlemen
who resides there are all of a superior class and no
doubt will be welcome to my home with the
warmest pleasure.

Then she has the poor in the parish to see
after and to attend to, and she imagines these
duties will occupy all her time, taking her mem-
ory away from the past unfortunate part of her
life, when she lost him whom she loved sincerely
throughout her starring tour all through Europe.

! that she had continued on after appearing
in London, instead of returning to her estate
here to dwell in perpetual loneliness, forsaken by
all who before had loved her, but, what her
Heavenly Father ordains for her, she shall ac-
complish, for she believes He does all things well
to those who trust and abide in Him, which she
does for Him, her guide and protector, a more
worthy protector than her former instructor
who deceived her. However, she must be up
and doing, not losing her opportunity at these

in'

! t

Alvira, alias Orea.

103

times, and thinking about the pant and her dis-
appointments. She must instantly carve out for
herself in tlie future a new life, trusting on her
Heavenly Father to assist her in her under-
takings.

He is willing, He is able, He is her shield and
protector and she will serve Him faithfully in all
things, this being consolation to her.

She now goes to make preparations to visit
the people whom she mentioned, and orders her
coachman to bring her carriage instantly that
she may depart to accomplish what she proposed,
trusting that she may be successful in her under-
taking at this time.

She sends her messenger to inform the coach-
man that she is waiting patiently for him. She
has donned her fur wraps, for the autumn weather
is disagreeably damp and cold. Then proceed-
ing from the front door down the walk to her
carriage, where she alights and is driven away
instantly, this being her first venture to become
acquainted with society in Davenport. Be it a
success or not, she will pursue it to the end.
She now enters her carriage and gives orders to
her coachman and footman. To her coachman
she gives a list of the names of the families she
desires inviting to her chateau, also gives her
card of introduction to her footman whom she
informs to hand to the person who comes to the
door of the first residence which they arrive at-

104

Alvira, alias Orea.

The card was an invitation to the family whom
she was calling on, and stated : " This invitation
is from Miss Alvira Dunbar, to Judge Stafford
and family.

" I invite you, dear Sir, and family to visit me
at my chateau on the evening of November
20th, 1898.

" Hoping you will accept my invitation as I am
a stranger in Davenport, being the owner of the
late Duke of Davenport's estate."

Many'other families will also visit her on that
date. She shall endeavor to make things inter-
esting for them all, for she is very desirous to
make acquaintances.

Now she has visited all the best families and
left each an invitation, so she proceeds back to
her chateau and makes preparations to receive
her guests, for she intends to make this occasion
a surprise to all, that when they view the late
Duke's chateau and estate which has been so
much improved by her, its present owner, they
will be astonished, for they have not been here
since the late Duke's death, and his Duchess who
departed to London, where she now resides as
Mrs. Tremble.

Now Miss Alvira Dunbar proceeds to make
preparations, also to inform her butler of this
entertainment that is going to take place in her
chateau, and the arrangements she would like
accomplished.

Alvira, alias Orea.

105

While she is speaking her butler arrives
and enquires, what does she desire with him.

She answers him, that she is going to give a
large reception to the elite of Davenport on the
20th November, 1898; she desires him to prepare
a banquet, she, caring not what it will cost, only
desires it to be first-class in all its arrangements,
also that she can depend upon his efficiency to
accomplish everything satisfactorily, for she
knows he has the experience, and she will not
interfere with him, as her time will be taken up
receiving her guests as the}^ arrive. Well, the
butler informs Miss Alvira Dunbar that he will
decidedly superintend this banquet to her entire
satisfaction, also the guests, and she will not be
disturbed on that account.

Then Alvira Dunbar proceeds to have her
evening rest, and remains contented until their
arrival here.

The butler then proceeds directly to the house-
hold servants to give them instructions about
the different parts each has to accomplish, also
notifying them that they must put energy into
their work, for everything must be accomplish-
ed in perfect order, and, when they have finish-
ed, he will come and examine what they have
done. In the meantime he leaves them to them-
selves, trusting in their responsibility in having
everything perfect, as it ought to be on an oc-
casion like this.

106 Alvira, alias Orea.

On the morrow, at an early hour, Miss Alvira
Dunbar arose from her night's refreshing sleep,
so anxious was she about the preparations of
this her Hrst banquet to her new friends, whom
she was expecting in the evening. She then
went instantly to her butler, but found him not
in his waiting room, but proceeded to the banquet
room, where she found him instructing the wait-
ing maids in their duty, and was very much
astonished also satisfied with the preparations
which were accomplished during the time she
was asleep. She thanked her butler for his ]

promptitude in arranging everything so com-
pletely which gives her satisfaction. Now she
retires to her toilet apartment to make prepara-
tions for the receiving of her guests. After com-
pleting her prepai ations she retires to her recep-
tion room, where she awaits to receive her guests
and to pass the time. She sits down and glances
over the answers she received to her invitations
which amazed her exceedingly, for they were all
accepted. At this she remarked she had
triumphed in her action on this occasion ; this
gave her gteat pleasure and enjoyment at know-
ing they were all coming to her banquet, and
she was now preparing to receive them as they
came.

Her butler appeared to inform her of accom-
plishing everything in excellent order, and that
he was prepared to place her guests in their proper

Alvira, alias Orea.

107

seats at the banqueting table, also that he re-
served the seat at the head of the table, as it is
the custom at large banquets of this kind, for
the hostess herself, which he was sure she would
eminently fill to the satisfaction of her numer-
ous friends, who would undoubtedly express
their admiration and thankfulness to her who
has prepared this magnificent banquet for them.
Now he informs Miss Alvira Dunbar that he
will leave her for the present, and, if she requires
him, if it be necessary at any time to assist her
in any requirement to her advantage, he shall
be only willing to give his assistance. Then
he departs to the banquet hall, where he inspects
everything minutely, not mi-sing one single
article if it be placed out of order. Then he in-
stantly approaches the waiters and waitresses
and instructs them the proper way to place
things as they ought to be placed. All being
now ready for the banquet, the guests all arriv-
ing in time, Miss Alvira Dunbar receiving them
with profound courtesy and directing them to the
reception room, where they mingle with one an-
other, then joining in conversation, each family
mixing among the other families, all chatting
about their new hostess, her pleasant surround-
ings and dignity of manner, which astonishes
each one remarkably.

After all the guests had arrived in the recep-
tion room it was an interesting scene to behold,

108 Alviua, alias Orea.

the magnificence of the various costumes bewil-
dered and dazzled the imagination of the huge
numbers, who mingled with each other. It was
then the butler threw open the large folding
doors which connects the reception room with
the banquet hall. As each guest entered they
were ushered to their allotted seats at the ban-
quet table, and the hostess, Miss Alvira Dunbar,
was escorted to her place at the head of the table
by her butler. All eyes were scrutinizing her
as she sat down, all was silent as the guests
gazed upon her. She then arose and spoke to
them, remarking:

" Ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you as my
friends to partake of this supper which I have
prepared for you, and I am exceedingly pleased
and grateful to you all for acce[)ting my invi-
tation, I having a great desire to make your
acquaintance, and I have now fulfilled my de-
sire. I anticipate we will meet frequently here-
after in this way. Now I will call on my right
hand friend, Judge Stafford, to ask a blessing
before we partake of this, our first supper, to-
gether, which I trust we all shall appreciate."

Judge Stafford then rises and addresses the
assembly, thanking the generous hostess who
prepared this magnificent supper for all their
pleasure. He trusts she will be no longer a
stranger to us all, that we may hereafter have
many entertainments like this one. Now he

Alvira, alias Orea. 100

asks a blessing before partaking of the good
things set upon the table, hoping every one will
partake of what is set before thetn, with enjoy-
ment and gratitude to the giver of the grand
supper.

After the thanksgiving, the assembly partake
of the delicacies set before them, the waitresses
supplying their wants to any eatables not vvith-
, » in their reach. Thus the supper continues with

tranquil simplicity and uniform concord with
each other until it ended.

Then the guests retire to view the whole in-
terior of the chateau, which completely sur-
passes all their expectations, such artistic per-
fections they confessed never having witnessed
before and such exceeding uniformity of design
as they beheld the magnificence and splendor of
the whole interior decorations which all remark-
ed must have cost a fabulous amount of wealth
and each one inquiring from one another as to
how she accumulated so much wealth, she ap-
pearing so young, but exceedingly well instructed
in all matters pertaining to society.

" And she also is a lover of art, there is no
disputing that, and may be a professional in
some art."

" One of the company heard the remark that
she was an exceedingly accomplished musician,
and when we all retire again to the banqueting
hall she will endeavor to entertain and amuse us

Alvira, alias Oi^ea.

by playing some of her own compositions, which
shall show that bhe must be an exponent of first-
class music. What a pleasure they »H shall de-
rive from her performances on the pianoforte; it
will be to them all exceedingly agreeable, will it
not, Miss McPherson ? " asks Judge Stafford.

" Yes indeed, it will delight us all with enthu-
siasm, for I was informed that she is an expert
performer on the piano," replies Miss McPher-
son." Then the guests all assembled again in
the banquet hall to hear and see the best manip-
ulator of piano technic that they ever heard of
or may not again, she being a perfect wizard,
and will undoubtedly become as celebrated as
the renowned Orea was whom they hear no
more about. It is likely he has dropped down
into another sphere below this earth which they
live upon. But this young hostess is worthy to
take his place, and is the only one qualified to
be his successor in the musical world.

After inspecting the interior and outside of
the chateau, the guests all returned to the ban-
quet hall and occupied the vacant seats and
waited patiently the coming of their kind and
respected hostess, who is now to entertain them
with her classical music.

'* Here she comes," cries out one of the assem-
bly, and the rest of the assembly give her a rous-
ing welcome, after whiih the young hostess makes
a gentle courtesy, then sits down in front of her

Alvira, alias Orea. Ill

grand pianoforte, from which she brings forth
rippling music, so bewildering to her hearers,
who listen silently without a motion, and ap-
pearing as if like dumb statues, so amazed were
they at the young performer before their eyes,
who seemed not to be a human being but a new
musical creation.

When she finished her musical selections she
arose and addressed her guests saying, " Good
friends and acquaintances, it affords me exceed-
ing pleasure to perform on the pianoforte and I
sincerely hope that I have given you all pleasure
and enjoyment. I hope you will pardon me if I
was lacking in my duty to any of the guests
assembled here during this entertainment, for
my time was so continually occupied that I could
not converse with each one of you separately,
which I would have desired to accomplish. Still,
I may have another opportunity to converse with
those whom I neglected on this occasion.

Now the hour is late and some of the guests
may be anxious to depart, so I bid you farewell,
hoping peace and happiness may be with you all.
Then we'll have remembrance of this event
until we all shall meet again on some future oc-
casion."

Her guests then arose en masse to extend their
congratulations to their hospitable entertainer
whom they all adored, then they sang a
parting ode, and gave three vigorous cheers,

112

Alvira, alias Orea.

is :\r

which the young hostess humbly acknow-
ledged by waving her handkerchief.

The guests then passed out to take their con-
veyances to proceed to their homes, and this
ended Miss Alviia Dunbar's magnificent banquet,
it beinjr the first she gave in her celebrated
chateau.

This was chronicled in the London press, and
gave society something to talk about, which
they were not prepared for.

Now, we go to London and follow the Duchess
of Davenport's career since she retired to her
London residence, where she is now Mrs. Alfred
Tremble, having married Mr. Tremble, her for-
mer agent. They have been married one year
and take life very comfortably, by taking in all
sorts of amusements, and frequently join in the
chase after the hounds, as the Duchess was al-
ways an expert and fearless rider. She often
braved obstacles that came in her way that male
riders would not venture. Her second husband
was also a smart horseman, and when out on
their runs they enjoyed each other's company
immensely.

The Duchess had many friends in London
when she was the wife of the late Duke of
Davenport. Those friends remained true to her,
and they spent many pleasant and sociable hours
in their friends' homes. They also attended and
enjoyed the fashionable entertainments given

Alvira, alias Orea.

113

by the elite of London. So this enjoyment kept
them always interested, making their lives very
happy. But, alas ! a very sad time came to them,
which happened during one of their usual
hunts.

The brave and daring former Duchess acci-
dentally fell off her Arabian stallion and was
killed outright. This was a scene of a sorrow-
ful surrounding, as all the gay riders approached
the place of the accident. Strong and great men
wept like children, for so much they loved the
brave Duchess. Even her stallion stood over
her and pawed the ground where its noble rider
lay beneath him. It was all the other riders
could do to take him away from the silent
body which was lying on the damp clay.
At length they blindfolded him. Then they
succeeded in getting him away. The scene then
was exceedingly solemn, as they departed with
the noble animal blindfolded, and strong men
again wept bitterly at the instinct of the noble
animal, who must have comprehended what had
happened to his brave rider. Then they brought
the remains of the lovely Duchess to her resi-
dence. The cortege was silent and sad as they
departed from the unfortunate place of the acci-
dent, the broken-hearted husband walking be-
side the bier on which they were carrying her,
the tears streaming from his eyes. O, what a
pity ! 0, what sorrow must he have felt on that
8

I I

114 Alvira, alias Ohea.

trying occasion it is past understanding to those
who did not witness the sad event.

On arriving at her late residence, they laid
her body gently down on a satin shroud and
placed white lilies all o'er her silent breast.

There, lying silent in death, was the noblest
Duchess that ever lived on this earth ; she was
not proud and haughty but humble and benevo-
lent to the poor and unfortunate who dwelt
around her former great estate in Davenport ;
and after she became a widow she still was
benevolent ; and when she lost everything and
had to go teaching music to support herself,
also educate her only son, the young Duke, who
is now tiglitinyf in Egypt lor his Queen, Empress
Victoria ; he having received great honors from
Her Majesty, and is expecting to return home
with the other heroes who escaped slaughter by
the tyrant Dervishes whom they defeated, and
are all returning to England as conquerors, where
they shall receive a magnificent reception from
the British people, who will gladly welcome
them home again to their Queen and country.

In the meantime a jury was selected to hold
an inquest on the death of the Duchess. They
met and made inquiry how the accident was
caused, and were informed by the witnesses who
saw the accident occur that she spurred her
charger to the task, but he failed to clear the
ditch by one foot, then rolled to the bottom of

Alvira, alias Orea.

115

the ditch, and his whole weight fell on his heroic
rider, which instantly killed the unfortunate,
who died without a struggle.

Kind witnesses who saw the accident, raised
the animal olf her ; she never moved or spoke a
word. At last her companion and fellow-riders
came galloping to the place where the accident
occurred, and were all astounded at the fatality
which faced them in that fatal ditch. No word
was spoken, silence reigned as they stood amazed
looking down on that ghastly spectacle, who
once had life and virtue, without one blemish to
mar her spotless purity. No wonder silence
reigned and nothing to disturb that ever-to-be-
remembered agonizing scene, as stated before.
They carried the dead body to her late residence,
where she lay under a canopy spread with imperial
satin, and her covering was the native English
white lilies in full bloom, well matched with the
pure lily that lay underneath in death's calm and
everlasting sleep. May she by this be with the
angels in heaven singing hosanna to the Ever-
lasting Being, her great Almighty Father, whom
she served faithfully on this earth. Hark ! the
mournful wail of the march of the dead, as they
bore her away to her last repose in her silent
grave, there to remain to the resurrection, where
we shall know each other as we know each other
here. What a glorious meeting there, then, will be
to those who trust in the Eternal Being, who

116

Alvira, alias Orea.

gave us a body and placed life into it, and all
human reason ; and He has power to take us
away at His own time, where He takes us to
His mansion to be ever with the saints above, if
we shall in our present life obey His command-
ments.

After the funeral came to an end, each one of
the company of mourners who followed the dead
to the grave, paying their last respects to the dear
departed one, left the place of burial, returning
all to their different abodes, thinking upon what
they may not have thought before. Thus their
own bodies will also be in earth to fade away to
nothing. They console themselves by believing
the dust shall grow again into human form, with
its faculties restored to new and everlasting life,
in the Kingdom above, where they all shall meet
again with departed ones.

O, what a glorious prospect for those who live
here faithful, toilingonthisearthinGod's vineyard,
looking and waiting with glad expectations to
the new coming of life in the New Jerusalem,
and every believer then shall again recognize their
long-departed relations and friends. O, what an
attractive compensation for the reverses, trials,
conflicts and failures of this life here upon this
earth where Satan holds control.

To continue my subject, I must follow the
late departed Duchess' second husband, who is
now a widower. He returns to his late wife's re-

11 ■''

Alvira, alias Orea.

117

sidence, where he appears almost broken-hearted.
The household servants are all grieved at his
great sorrow, and they minister to his comfort
and relief respectively that he quickly revived
his former self. Then he meditated on the past
and on the future, imagining that his life was
not a wreck, and that his Almighty Father had
severely punished him for his unfaithfulness to
his lost and best friend, also companion, for whom
he was instructor and manager, the once cele-
brated Orea, whom he brought out before the
people in all the capitals of Europe, which
proved very successful, and resulted to the ad-
vantage of the persons interested who all ac-
cumulated fortunes, one of these being the late
Duchess, who has left her portion to her son,
who is now in the Egyptian army, and it is most
likely he shall not return to claim his late mother's
fortune, as she had received no word whether he
was slain or was still alive.

This puzzled Mr. Alfred Tremble, husband of
the late Duchess, who surmised to himself as
regards who should receive this immense for-
tune. He thought his former pupil and himself
were now the legal heirs to claim it, and he
must inform Alvira of the death of his wife, the
Duchess. It shall be a great surprise to her
when she hears the sad news, also the depar-
ture of the late Duchess' son, who went to
Egypt, where he is supposed to have been slain

118

Alvira, alias Orea.

in battle. Then he will send her his compli-
ments, inquiring if she will pardon him for the
unbecoming way he forsook her after the [iro-
mise he gave her when they were in partnership
and accumulated what they did to both their
interests. Now he remarks how unfortunate he
has been in that affair, just because he loved
the Duchess and married her. He also states
that if his former pupil has any respect for him
now, as she had before, which he does not think
she has, but she, he believes, did adore him,
but now since he deceived her she may not an-
swer his letter of information about the death
of the Duchess. However, should she not he
will endeavor to have an interview with her
■ when she shall not be expecting him. Then her
old time regard for him may return, and should
it turn out like this he will propose to marry
her, and become joint heir with her for the late
Duchess, his wife's estate, this being his one
object during his life. Win or fail he cares not
what will transpire, and if he succeeds, as he
has done in his first career with Alvira, this
shall satisfy him. Then he shall end his life in
serving his Maker more worthy than he has
done in the past. He shall now wait patiently
to know if Alvira will answer his letter which
he mailed to her.

After waiting some time and not hearing from
Alvira, he instantly takes his departure to her

''> II

Alvira, alias Orea.

119

estate in Davenport. Then he will meet her in
some place unawares, and endeavor also to con-
quer her will, as he had accomplished before
when she was the renowned Orea, so he shall
undoubtedly be as successful in his undertaking
aofain.for a faint heart never wins a second time.
Now he shall remain here in this residence of
his departed, and await the time to act promptly
in this important matter, which shall occupy his
whole attention until it be a complete success.

So now, dear readers, we continue the tale and
go back to Davenport, Alvira's estate, where we
left her as her guests had all departed to their
different homes. She was now so satisfied at
what she had accomplished by that entertain-
ment, for it made her name known to all the
people throughout the Davenport neighborhood,
and since then she had several visits from other
respectable people, who were also pleased at
making her acquaintance, and they kindly in-
vited Alvira to come and visit them, which she
did, and was exceedingly delighted by the way
she was received b}'- her good friends. They
were also delighted at having her company, as
she was so very highly accomplished, so they
enjoyed her company immensely, and were loath
to part with her, as she was so interesting in
every way.

At this time, while Alvira was on her visiting
tours, she was driving in her own carriage with

120 Alvira, alias Orea.

a very spirited pony, who took fright at some
obstacle that lay in its path, which caused him
to run away, upsetting the vehicle and the
driver, and the spirited pony dashed a'vay with
such fleetness with one wheel and half of the
vehicle after him. At the time of the accident
a young gentleman was riding by in the oppo-
site direction, and noticing the accident quickly
jumped from his saddle to assist Alvira, who
was lyin^ down beside her part of the vehicle
by the gutter on the road. He raised her gently
up, and taking his handkerchief to wipe the
perspiration which was dropping down her
cheeks, afterwards wiping the dust off her dress,
Then he took from a small case a bottle which
he always carried in case of an emergency. He
insisted on her taking one mouthful, which she
obeyed without objection. It relieved her in-
stantly that she was herself once more.
Alvira then inquired the stranger's name.
He informed her that he was Mr. Edmund
Percy, son of Lord Percy, assistant cb"i,ncellor to
Her Majesty. She then remarked to him that
it was fortunate for her that he came this way
to relieve her from this predicament and was
very much obliged to him for his promptness
in relieving her from such an awkward position
into which she had fallen.

" Well, maiden, I do not know your name,"
answered the young man. She answered him

Alvira, alias Orea. 121

that her name was Alvira Dunbar ; then he in-
quired of her how far from here did she reside.

She then told him that her residence was on
the outskirts of the border yonder to the west,
and that he could almost see her chateau from
here on this hillside, can he not ?

Then he asked : Does she mean to inform
him that she is the owner of the late Duke of
Davenport's estate ?

She then relates to him that she is the only
possessor of it and also of his great chateau.

Mr. Percy then told Alvira that he was in-
formed at the time of the sale, and if he recollects
aright the name of the purchaser was then
" Orea " the celebrated pianist. At this, Alvira
informed Mr. Percy that his recollection was
quite true, for her name was formerly " Orea,*'
but for the present she cannot relate to him the
circumstances which made the change in her
name, yet she may in some future time when sha
has made his acquaintance more.

He then says to Miss Alvira that he will let
her have the use of his horse to carry her to her
chateau, and that she may keep him in her
stable until he comes to take him away. Alvira
then tells Mr. Percy that he is exceedingly kind
and asks how he shall get home himself as it is
a long distance from here to his place ?

" No, it is not a great distance from here, just
an hour's travel," replies Mr. Percy.

122 Alvira, alias Orea.

" OjSir, it is indeed far too much to expect you
to walk that distance," insists Alvira.

" O, I have not so great a distance to go, and I
' am strong enough to travel that length," re-

marks Mr. Percy Alvira then says she has not
the least doubt of him not being able. But he
replies that he is a man and she is a weak
woman and it may tire her out before she
reaches her destination, and then she would be
sorry at not accepting his gentle horse.

Well, since he is so obliging, she will accept
his gentle horse, also if he will please to assist
her into his saddle, then she will thank him and
depart.

" Stay then." He proceeds to bring his gentle
j horse to her, who is grazing by the side of the

turnpike road ; he will not be long in returning.
He goes quick antl returns with his charger,
also assists Miss Alvira to the saddle. With a
smile she bids him good-bye and away she goes
on a canter. Then he stood by and watched her
until she was out of sight. He then proceeded
to his own home light-hearted, remarking to
himself, " that she is a daisy." Where in the
world has she sprung from ? he shall have anotlur
opportunity to meet her when he calls for his
chargei", and may then understand her better.

How strange ! A maiden so innocent and fair,

a treasure to dwell with, an only heir, and still

I more, the only one to possess such a valuable

Alvira, alias Orea.

123

estate, which the late Duke of Davenport at
one time possessed. However, there seems some
mystery surrounding this and he will endeavor
to sift it out to the end, come what may. He
will not forget that smile which she gave him
when departing on his charger. This, now, is
all, until he meets her again.

Ah ! He has arrived at his home sooner than
he expected, and still thinking about that inter-
esting smile and bewitching, lovely young crea-
ture, whom he lias no doubt but that she has
arrived at her chateau by this time, and he is
very anxious to proceed and bring his charger
back, but he considers that he will delay his
going for three days yet, then she shall be more
satisfied at his coming. So by this time Miss
Alvira arrived home safely, and left the charger
in charge of her coachman and entered her cha-
teau, when behold, she receives from her steward
a letter from London, and from her old instructor
also a newspaper with a full account of the
Duchess of Davenport's death, which happened
so suddenly when she was riding in the chase
after the hounds. Alvira then stated that this
was such a shocking accident to the dear Duchess,
her former benefactor. At her departing she
wished her great success in her second attempt
at joining in matrimony ; but, alas ! she is no
more, and although she consoles with her, she
shall never know it, poor Duchess. She for-

124 Alvira, alias Orea.

gives her, but not him, who was her second hus-
band, Oh ! no, she is done with him forever, and
hopes he shall never visit her, for she could
scarcely welcome him to her chateau again. He
should have judgment enough to keep away after
he deceived her the way he did. She then reads
his letter, and he states that he may come and
visit her on any occasion and at her convenience.
She has only to let him know and he shall in-
stantly come. Alvira writes him a letter stat-
ing that she is going to take a trip to Scotland
for a short time to visit a particular friend whom
she respects very sincerely, and thinks this will
indeed put him off for a while, and will give her
also a chance to entertain this Mr. Edmund
Percy when he comes for his charger. She
thought he would have come the next day, but
he has not yet. However, she has still his gen-
tle charger, and shall keep him in her possession
until Mr. Percy comes to claim him.

At this moment the door bell rings. She in-
forms Henry, her valet, to see who it is, and if
he be a gentleman, to bring him to her. Young
Henry returns with a card for her. On it was
written : " I am Mr. Frank Bothwell, son of Bar-
rister Bothwell, and have business to transact
with Miss Alvira Dunbar."

After reading the card she ordered Henry to
bring Mr. Bothwell to her.

So Henry enters, accompanied by Mr. F. Both-

liji

Alvira, alias Orea. 125

well. Alvira then asks what is the business he
has to relate to her ?

Mr. Bothwell then sat down, remarking that
he has some documents for her to sign and
would like her first to read them over, then she
shall understand what brought him here.

Alvira then reads the documents over and
finds out what they report, exclaiming : " Ah ! the
Duchess has not forgotten me yet, for here is a
statement of her will, leaving me the half of her
income, the other half, also the residence, goes to
her son, the young Duke. No account is given
of what her husband, Mr. A. Tremble, is to re-
ceive. How comes this, did she love him or not ?
She doubts it very much." However, she in-
quires of Mr. Bothwell if she will sign these two
documents ?

He answers her yes, telling her that those
documents show her what is coming to her from
the late Duchess of Davenport's last will and
testament, and when she puts her signature
to them she can draw the money out of the
Bank of England at any time, for those docu-
ments show the manager that she is entitled
to it.

Alvira then thanks Mr. Bothwell exceedingly
for the information he has just given her, which
she understands thoi Jghly now, and tells him
to give her kind respects to his father, whom
she had heard about before from the late Duchess

126 Alvira, alias Orea.

of Davenport, who informed her of his honorable
character, which she proved at a certain period
in her life when all her prospects had failed, for
he had the statement of her late husband's, the
Duke of Davenport's, estate also. He sold the
property at a much greater value than it was
worth ; so the late Duchess and her son receiv^ed
a large amount which they never expected, so
Alvira is now aware of this very interesting
action on his father's part to carry out faithfully
this the last will of the ever faithful Duchess,
so she will not detain Mr. Bothwell any longer,
and thanks him for coming to transact his
father's business with her, also inviting him to
come again to Davenport and call ; also spend
his time in her company, and she will endeavor
to interest him.

Mr. Bothwell then thanks Alvira, saying, he
will gratify his desire, and bids her farewell.

Alvira then retires and thinks over this great
and kind consideration of the late Duchess for
her, for she did not expect such gratitude and
reward from her, for the Duchess was aware
that she had sufficient wealth, and it is a great
surprise to her that the Duchess did not leave it
all to her dear son, whom she loved sincerely.

Alvira then read in the newspaper that the
late Duchess' son could not attend her funeral,
as he was in the army at Egypt fighting the
Dervishes at Omdurman, where in London it

Alvira, alias Orea.

127

was reported he was one of the slain. Yet she
read in another account of the war being over and
that the English Army were returning liome to
London.

Then she remarks, she shall know definitely
should he be slain in battle, when they arrive,
and that she is now sorry for treating him as
she had done, remembering how he pleaded
with her to give him her affection and become
his dear wife. She certainly would have accept-
ed him for her husband had she not thought his
mother had poisoned her former instructor's
mind against her, but now Alvira says she can-
not cherish this thought any longer, when she
found out that this honorable act of the Duchess,
making her a sharer in her will and forgetting
her second husband, who mourned ingreatsorrow
for her so much when she was killed, and Alvira
believes that the Duchess had not much love and
regard for him, only the Duchess thought in
marrying him that Alvira would also marry her
son.

The Duchess' son then informed his mother
that Alvira was infatuated witli her own instruc-
tor and that she would certainly have married
him. Then he would not have got Alvira for
his wife.

It was then the Duchess informed Alvira's in-
structor that she loved him exceeding sincerely
and that she would accept him as her husband.

128

Alvira, alias Orea.

So Alvira's instructor answered her yes, and
that was the unfortunate way of it all ; and
Alvira is satisfied that God has ordained this
all for her good, although she loved the Duchess'
son very much after she made his acquaintance
but did not want to encouiarie him because
she loved also and thought much of her instruc-
tor, whom she relied upon in her former career.

Then Alvira inquired of her instructor if he
would make her his wife ? He informed her
that the Duchess of Davenport was already his
promised wife, and that he could not dicappoint
her or go back on his engagement, for she has
given him her consent to join in matrimony
with him.

Then Alvira informed him that she would
not recognize him again and that he was lost to
her forever.

She says the Duchess did not love him, but
was just marrying him so that she may marry
her son. Then Alvira's instructor told her that
she was greatly mistaken if she thought that of
her former benefactor.

She still stated to her instructor that it was
all over, and forgives the good Duchess as she
did before ; but as for him, she shall hardly ever
forgive him for the way he deceived and forsook
her for marrying the Duchess.

Now, returning to London we find Mr. Trem-
ble, waiting patiently to hear from his former

Alvira, alias Orea.

129

pupil, the celebrated Orea, but now who is nam-
ed Alvira Dunbar. He is sitting in the parlor
of his late Duchess' residence, and going to the
table tinds a letter which he takes, then sits
down and reads it. It is an answer from Alvira
in return for the letter which he wrote her, and
after reading the contents of the letter he was
not in the best of humor and appeared to be
disappointed with what he had read. Then fold-
ing the letter he placed it in the envelope, then,
puts it in the breast pocket of his drt ss coat. He
then sat down (like a statue) in a serious mood,
his eyes staring straight into vac;<ncy, resembling
some lunatic, as he sat there in dead silence
not a motion in his whole being. He must be
thinking most seriously of what he read in that
fatal letter, and at lenuth he murmurs to him-
self : " >he is departing to Scotland to meet a
particular and respected friend of lurs and she
cannot inform him when she will return home."
However, he considers that he has missed an im-
portant opportunity for she will be gone ; so he
knows now that lie has accomplished a retroi;rade
action and that it is a mistake of the first magni-
tude. This destroys all his bright anticipations.
However, he must persevere to unravel this
difficulty in which he has placed himself. He
then surmises that she by this time may have
arrived in Scotland, but does not state the time
of her return ; that's what she stated in her letter
9

^ii

I! ■

130 Alvtra, alias Orea.

to him. Therefore she wants to keep him in
ignorance of \uv return to the chateau, evident-
ly this is the plan slie executes U> deprive him
of an intervi.'vv with her. Tlien ho recites to
himself tluit he shall confound her purpose, and
proceed to Davenport to await her returning
home ficni Scotland. Tlius he will have an
opportunity to converse witli her Ladyship
Alvira Dunbar, the late celebrated "Orea" the
iinpressario.

Mr. Trend )le pays, Alvira's warning to him when
he married the Duchess was, that she never loved
him, has now come true, for had the Duchess
loved him as fondly as she declared to him her
affection, then wliy inquire if he would accept her
as his wife ? and remarking, that he little knew
at that time she was planning for the welfare of
her son whom she expected would marry Alvira
and become the real Duke of Davenport. And
by that union he called himself a fool for letting
his wife, the late Duchess, outwit him, for he
knows now thecuninng plot which was executed
to catch him, and tiu^ht him a lesson which he
shall never forget. Still he thinks she must
have been jealous of him, for her son informed
her that Alvira loved him exceeding sinceiely.
' Twas then her jealousy commenced. Then she
put her wits to work to invent a way to win his
affection, which she succeeded in doing. Now
he said he must be alert. Now that her son is

>■<'

Alvira, alias Orea. 131

slain he cannot become Alvira's liusband, but
yet Alvini also may outwit him, he thinks, by
taking for her husbiind her particular and re-
spected I'riend whom she is now visiting in Scot-
land. Then he afjain shall be disappointed, but
he would connnunicate with her in Scotland if
he had her address, only she was so cunning not
to send it to him. However, this teaches him
that she has no regard for him. Then he won-
ders what he shall do in such a predicament.
Therefore he concludes the only thing is to
wait patiently and see what shall transpire
when Alvira returns to Davenport, and he
shall watch to see if she returns with a hus-
band or not. This would relieve him immensely.
He will now proceed to Davenport and await
her arrival before proceeding to another station,
but if he fails in this he shall have another
opportunity to defeat her and control her action,
as he had done before without any disputes
from her.

We shall now leave Mr. Tremble in his late
wife's residence, and follow up Alvira Dunbar.
We left her in her own chateau waiting pa-
tiently for young Mr. Edmund Percy, son of
Lord Percy, whom .she was expecting to come
for his gentle charger. He did arrive, and she
received him with pleasure, welcoming him in a
right royal manner, as she alone could accom-
plish. Her kindness and liberality Mr. Edmund

132

Alyira, alias Orea.

■ i

1 1 f

Percy could not comprehend when he parted
From her tliat bright early morn in midsummer
when th(3 flowers bloomed all round her fairy
chateau, and she the fairest flower of them all.
'J'hen Mr. Percy sat down and communed
with himself af]jain about the bewitching and
m^'storious young creature who dwelt in that
magnificoiit (chateau, a lonely mistress of a vast
estate, with hundreds of emplo\ ees to obey her
commands. This astonished him immensely,
stating that if sl\e had but accepted his advances
he would instantly propose to her, but alas ! he
thinks there is some mystery surrounding her
])erson, which to extract is an impossibility. As
fof a human bein.T, he thinks she is indeed one
of the greatest puzzles in existence, she is un-
fathonialile, no one can interpret her myster3^
it's concealed down, down to the verv root of her
heart and would take all the science of a phil-
osopher to extract the mystery from her brain.
Now he states he shall persevere and endeavor to
fathom this unconqueiable mystery, should it
take him a lifetime and will solve it or die in the
attempt, being so agitated and excited all about
that one marvellous creature, who almost drove
him cnizy; the very thoughts (»f her as he rode
homeward on his steed continually annoyed him,
lie had no peace, nothing could divert it from his
mind.

Mr. Edmund Percy now arrives at his mother's

Alvika, alias Orka.

133

residence, puts up his gentle charger and enters
his mother's home, where his mother met and
welcomed him, enquiring how Miss Alvira
Dunbar received him. He informed her that
she received him most sincerely, displaying
abundant frankness and pleasure at his appear-
ance. She also showed him much respect, hei-
manner and presence was so bewitching as she
gave him full freedom of her idolized chateau,
leading him around and showing all the costly
treasures which she received while abroad
throughout all Europe, which Empresses, Emper-
ois, Queens, Kings and Presidents of different
republics gave her, these being valuable heir-
looms to be revered by her during her remain-
ing lifetime, and by her children hcreaftL'^, should
she become a wife. I\lother, these treasures are
more valuable than her estate and ours too, so
you can comprehend what wealth this Miss
Alvira possesses on her own account. I was also
conversing with a stranger whom I chanced to
meet. He apparently was well acquainted with
Alvira, and he related to him all Alvira's past
history. It was a thrilling account of her former
life and would occupy too much of his time to
relate it all to her, for the full account of Alvira's
former life is most wonderful indeed for one so
young and gentle as she undoubtedly is. How-
ever, she invited him to pay her another visit
sometime when he had more leisure, also that

^ w

134

Alvira, alias Orea.

she would be exceedingly interested in his com-
ing back again. So he informs his mother that
he shall call on her at some future time.

His mother wishes him success in his endeavor
to win her aft'uction, for it would be a great
triumph for him, and warns him to keep this
meeting a profound secret between Alvira and
himself, from his former lady-loves in case till
may not transpire as they desire.

Mr. Edmund Pei'cy obeys his mother's propo-
sition, for it is the safest way to act in this mat-
ter. Ho bids her farewell and retires to his bed-
room for he is weary and in need of rest. His
mother remarks, may God bo with her boy, and
when lie sleeps may it be the sleep of tlie just,
who delight in goodness under all difficulties
which may lead him away from rectitude, and
follow her boy in the path of righteousness,
then lie shall never fall away from the grace
and love of his Almighty Father, who is his
Guide and Protector, and trusting in Him he
shall succeed in his present life.

He then tells his mother that she may have
confidence in him and bids her farewell. The
mother then kisses her boy and says good- night.

After Mr. Edmund Percy departed from Al-
vira she said, that he was exceedingly handsome
and so interesting in his conversation which
shows that he had a perfect knowledge of mat-
ters historical, which take a practical master to

Alvira, alias Okea,

135

accomplish. He, moreover, is well educated and
has won her good estimation for his frankness
and ability, and she believes he has come of
noble ancestors, for the Percys catne of a very
ancient family, who were all exceedingly brilliant
masters in ancient times, some were Professors,
others Astronomers, Academecians, their works
and names are famous in Greece, that country
which is renowned in history, for its people were
geniuses in all their special works.

"Henry, I hear that bell ringing; please attend
to it." Henry proceeds immediately, and finds
the gentleman who rang the bell and escorts
him to Alvira's apartment, and when he entered
Alvira almost fainted away as she beheld Alfred
Tremble, her former instructor, whom she noti-
fied that she had departed for Scotland. How-
ever she braced herself for the occasion as mat-
ters did not turn out as she had de-^ired ; then
she remarked that he knew she was going to
Scotland, then what brought him here so quickly?
Mr. Tremble then said, "It was just because Al-
vira did not answer his second letter."

Well, she said she had not time, but that he
has arrived as soon as the letter has.

So Mr. Tremble thinks the letter had been de-
layed some way, for he mailed it eight days ago.
Then he asks her if she is still going to Scot-
land ? Alvira then told Mr. Tremble that she
had made all arrangements for her departure
to Scotland when she received his last letter,

136

Alvira, alias Orea.

therefore she is sorry that she cannot enjoy his
company, for she does not intend to go for one
month from now.

" Ah," he says, " that is a great pity, for he
came here unknown to her, thinking she might
not be gone before his arrival. However, it
does not matter, for he must content himself
until the time Alvira departs."

She then tells Mr. Tremble not to delay for
her, that she may change her mind yet, as she
had done before — also saying that she was very
sorry for Mrs. Tremble's sudden death, and no
doubt that he would miss her greatly ? Yes,
he states to Alvira that it gave him a great
shock at the time it happened, but that he has
got over it all now and is himself again.

Alvira then asks Mr. Tremble if he is aware
the late Duchess, his wife, disposed of her realty.

Then Mr. Tremble stated that she never in-
formed him herself, but only found it out in
the Weekly Gazette, that she had left her resi-
dence an'' contents to her son, whom she did not
know was slain in the Soudan, Egypt, where he
fought heroically in General Kitchener's army,
but, unfortunately, in the end was slain,
which deprives him of accepting his mother's
legacy.

By this Mr. Tremble thought it was due
to himself. Alvira informed Mr. Tremble that
the report of her son's death was caused by the

Alvira, alias Orea. 137

ferocious Dervishes was a false report, for she
read another report that stated that he survives,
and shall soon return with his comrades to Lon-
don, where the people are waiting their coming,
and are arranging a most exceeding triumphant
reception for them ; also to the most brave
tighters of the Queen, who shall honor them with
the Victoria Cross, and very likely knight some
of them.

Mr. Tremble told Alvira that this was news
unexpected at this time, and should it hap-
pen to be true, he would be well pleased and
satisfied.

Alvira then informed him that she received a
letter from the late Duchess, his wife's lawyer,
that she left to Alvira the money Alvira gave
her when the Duchess and her son came
to visit her at her chateau while Mr. Tremble
was there, where we settled all our business.

Alvira then said to Mr. Tremble that he gave
the Duchess the same amount as she did.

Then Mr. Tremble acknowledged that state-
ment, and related that the Duchess, his late wife,
was very unkind to him after all his obedient
desire in serving her faithfully as a worthy hus-
band whom she professed to respect, love and
adore, and this was his recompense from her.

Alvira tells Mr. Tremble that he was ir^'atuat-
ed with the Duchess, and forsook her, after pro-
mising her to dwell together during both their

i '"

!:■

1 !

i;|

L '

138 Alvira, alias Orea.

lives, and he still to continue as her mana-
ger. Alvira said at that time she was done with
him.

Mr. Tremble confessed that it was a disastrous
mistake on his own account, which he \ov^ since
regretted, and down at her feet on his knees he
implores Alvira's humble pardon for the way he
deceived her.

Then Alvira orders him to arise, remarking,
what had transpired in the past cannot be chang-
ed, for Mr. Tremble has made his own choice
and must abide by it, for she made a solemn vow
in the name of her Ahnighty Father never
again to entertain any affection for him, only
friendship and respect for his past services to
her, whom at one time she knew, and trusted
her career to his charge. Then she told him that
it was himself that was to blame and not her,
for she was exceedingly willing to become his
wife, had he enquired, which he never did ; this
is what she spoke to him. He then arose un-
manned, so that it was impossible for him to
stand erect. He muttered to himself, then re-
tired from Alvira's chateau, and from his once j
beloved and respected pupil, whom he succeeded
in making a success of the celebrated Orea ;
and after all he accomplished for her, she now
casts him away as a discarded wreck whom she
she can no more trust. This is decidedly ingrati-
tude for gratitude, and is the way matters

Alvira, alias Orea.

139

transpire in this uncertain world. He then said
he would return to London; although now a bro-
ken-hearted man, she may hear of him again,
later on, he thinks.

We now follow Alvira Dunbar from where
she parted from Mr. Tremble. Her grief was in-
deed very sincere at what she related to him, she
considering she could not do otherwise, for it
was his own stupid fault that matters transpired
as they did, and now as Mr. Tremble departed
she is done with him, but she wishes him no ill-
will during his remaining life.

Mr. Tremble went directly to the railway sta-
tion to await his train for London, and was wait-
ing there thinking seriously of his last interview
with Alvira, when an attractive young lady ap-
proached him and enquired if his name was not
Don Rosario, the instructor and manager of
the celebrated Orea.

Mr. Tremble was astonished and surprised at
her appearance and looked at her steadfastly,
and beginning to recognize her face he remarked
instantly, " Was she not Miss Bruce who accom-
panied Orea and him from Liverpool to Edin-
burgh, Scotland?" She answered him, "Yes sir,''
she was the same Miss Bruce; also informed him
that she was on her way to Orea's estate, for
she had made a promise to him when they ar-
rived in Edinburgh that she would come and
visit him at his estate in Davenport after one
year had elapsed.

1 :

140 Alvira, amas (Jkea.

Orea informed her at that time if he was not.
married he would have her for his wife. Per-
haps he, Don Rosario, can now inform her if
Orea is single or married.

Then Mr. Tremble related to her all the mys-
teries surroundinLC the celebrated Orea; that he
was not a man, but a woman disguised as a man,
her former Christian name being Alvira Dunbar.
He then said he had just parted with her, un-
friendly, although he was her instructor and
manager during her tour throughout all Europe,
and disguised as a man, which was a secret be-
tween her and him, as he knew he would be a
comj)lete failure as a star, being a woman, and
when they finished their tour and returned to
her estate they made a settlement and resumed
their former Christian names, he being Alfred
Tremble and Orea, Alvira Duid)ar. They shared
the proceeds of their income during their season's
engagements equally between the late Duchess,
whom he married, himself, and Alvira. Then
Alvira gave him her affection and expected that
he would marry her, but instead he married the
Duchess whom he loved sincerely, for she was
Alvira's benefactor formerly, but unfortunately
she was accidentally killed, that left him a wid-
ower, and he proposed to Alvira, but she would
not accept him because he married the unfortu-
nate Duchess, and ordered him out of her chat-
eau. So Miss Bruce here he came to return to

;ih

Alvira, alias Orea 141

his late wife's residence in London, where he
welcomed Miss Btuce to accompany him there
to London as she was herself disappointed in
her expectation by not findinf^r her former Orea,
Miss Bruce then consented to accompany Mr.
Tremble to London. As the train arrived they
went aboard ami departed to London. On nrriv-
in(( there they went direct to his late lamented
wife's residence where he found it all as he had
left it, in peifect order. The household servants
welcome him back an^ain and he introduces Miss
Ihiice to his housekeeper as an old friend of his
whom he chanced to meet a year ago. Miss
Bruce will spend some time here in his company
and asks his housekeeper to show her through
his la'e wife'.s apartments, whero she shall in the
meantime make her abode. The housekeeper
escorts Miss Bruce to the apartments which she
did enjoy very much, and left her thereuntil she
summoned her to dinner when it was prepared
for all.

When left to herself Miss Bruce disposed of
her travelling attire and donned an evening
gown, which made her appearance more inter-
esting and handsome. She waited patiently for
the summons to dinner, when Mr. Tremble
entered her apartment to escoit her to the din-
ner table, he was much astonished and sur-
prised at her changed appearance, and remarked
to her that she becomes it well. She informed

142 Alvira, alias Orea.

him that she was prepared to accompany him to
dinner.

They proceeded to the dininj^ room, Avhere Mr.
Tremble's invited friends were seated. He then
introduced Miss Bruce to all liis friends, who
remarked to her, saying they were lUdiglited at
making her acquaintance. Tiien the waiter
seated Miss Bruce .'iiid Mr. Tremble at the table,
and helped them to the food placed upon it.

All eyes being cast upon her, she appeared so
modest and exceedini; lovely that she won all
their admiration and respect at once.

Mr. Tremble knew she would conquer his
friends as she did himself. He then was happy
and believed his prospects were genuine, and at
the first private opportunity he had he would
propose to her, also relate to her his "-reat affec-
tion, for he believed she would accept him as
her husband, then he would be triumphant. He
then invited Miss Bruce to accompany him for a
drive in his late wife's carriage to view the
many interesting sights of London which she
never saw before. Miss Bruce accepted his kind
invitation and was exceedingly pleased to join
him, so Mr. Tremble gave instructions to the
coachman to hitch the horses to his carriage and
drive them around all tba interesting places
throughout London.

When leaving Miss Brace was in her best
spirits, as Mr. Tremble took her to view the

Alvira, alias Orea. 143

^n-eat attractions, and after they saw all that
was worth seeing they returned to the late
Duchess' residence and partook of their dinner,
after wliich they prepared to visit the Grand
Opera, where "II Travatore " was being played.
All this delighted Miss Bruce immensely. Then
she began to think sincerely . f Mr. Tremble's
regard for her. She thought it was her duty to
inform him that she had considerable aflfection
for him, and inquired of him if he had the same
affection for her, stating to him that she came to
Davenport to marry " Orea," but was disap-
pointed. Instead of her returning to Edinburgh
she continued here with Mr. Tremble. He may
then propose to her, and she would certainly
accept him, for she believes he is in very
comfortable circumstances, for he related to her
that he would purchase the late Duchess' resi-
dence, that belongs to her son now, if he be not
slain, but she believes he is still alive and may
return some day unexpected, then Mr. Tremble
will offer him the amount his mother paid for it.
He says he will undoubtedly accomplish this,
which will be to Miss Bruce a home, which she
desired in the great metropole of London.

Now we return to where we left Alvira, who,
with the assistance of her manager, settled up all
her accounts, and began making preparations to
visit London, to collect from the Bank of Eng-
land the amount which the late Duchess left to

144 Alvira, alias Ohea.

her. She fihall also visit her parents who knew
not of her returning to life, for they still be-
lieved she was drowned in the Rhine River,
Germany, and when she appears before tliem
they shall be quite astonished, and deny her as
their lost dauLjhter. After transacting this busi-
ness she shall remain in London until the
Soudan army returns, where it is reported
they are shortly coining, then she shall find an
opportunity to interview the Duchess' son, also
inform and explain to him what transpired
while he was fighting the ferocious Dervishes in
Egypt. She shall tell him all about his deceased
mother and the kindness she showed her by wil-
ling the money back to her which Alvira once
gave her after she and Mr. Tremble dissolved
partnership and resumed their Chiistian names.
By this time Alvira arrived at her parents'
dwelling, and pulled the door bell. The first one
to appear was her mother, who inquired of her
what she wanted. Alvira answered her, saying
she wanted to see her father, mother, also sisters
and brothers. Her mother then said that she
must have made a mistake and came to the
wrong house.

No, she was her mother, and Alvira is her
daughter whom she thouofht was drowned in the
Rhine River, Germany, but it was all a false re-
port, for she was then in her mother's presence
and asked her if she could not recognize her ?

Alvika, alias Orfa. 145

The mother addressed her daiif^hter by saying
that if she spoke trutlil'ully, she was now wel-
come to enter tlieir home where her father may
recognize her better than her mother did ; so
they both entered the room, where the father,
sisters and brothers were all assembled, sitting
round the grate in the large comfortable sitting
room.

As Alvira and her mother spoke, the father at
once recognized his daughter directly and arose
to embrace her, but the others could not recog-
nize her until the father related it all to his
family satisfactorily.

Then Alvira told her experience from the time
of her departure up to her present appearance,
which gave them all a great surprise.

Then Alvira's father told her how the late
Duchess assisted them, by giving them the
dwelling which they now occupy. Thoy also
heard that Orea's instructor married the Duchess
and that she was killed by her racehorse, and the
instructor was now residing in her residence.

Now Alvira related to them that he visited
her just before she left Davenport and promised
to marry her, but she rerus(?d him because he
deceived her by mai rying the Duchess, after pro-
mising to live with Alvira during the remainder
of their lives. After his wife was killed he came
again and asked Alvira, but she refused him
again and sent him away in anger. She has not
10

146

Alvira, alias Orea,

heard of him since, only that she heard his late
wife left him nothing, but the Duchess willed
Alvira the amount she gave her when Alvira
and her instructor dissolved partnership and
resumed their former Christian names, and
Alvira's instructor gave her the same amount
she gave him.

Then Alvira though it very strange that the
Duchess, his wife had not left him something for
she professed to have great affection for him and
only married him because she thought he would
have married Alvira, for she fully expected
Alvira would marry her son, and he would then
be the Duke of Davenport. Alvira respected
him, also loved hini very sincerely, and he did
adore her and finally proposed to her most per-
aeveringly, but she would not accept his offer
and ordered him not to press his suit just at pre-
sent, but at some future period when she com-
prehended things, which were still a mystery to
her, she might then accept him for her husband.
Well, this disappointed him very much. He then
took her hand in his and gently pressed it, then
kissed it and said Alvira: " He was now part-
ing from her to join the British Army which was
about departing from London to the Soudan in
Egypt to fight for his Queen and country. If
he be not slain by the Dervishes, then he will
return to claim her for his wife, and inquired of
her if she would accept him then ? "

Alvira, alias Ore a.

147

Alvira promised him that if her mystery was
Holved to her {satisfaction she would decidely
become his loving wife. He answered her with
a pleasant smile, remarking that she gave him
great pleasure, which he would cherish during
the time he was separated from her in Egypt,
and it shall give him courage when he faces the
ferocious Dervishes; and when they are con-
quered he shall return triumphant to London
and win the most renowned and celebrated Orea,
also make her his wife.

This brought Alvira to London. She told her
father that she shall endeavor to have an inter-
view with him when he arrives, for she believed
he shall keep his promise which he made
before departing for Egypt ; then he shall resign
from the army and marry her, and become the
Duke of Davenport, and she will be his Duchess.
All then shall go merrily, like the ringing of a
marriage bell.

Alva retired for the night, after relating all to
her parents, who seemed exceedingly well satis-
tied at her adventure, as it all transpired to her
advantage, and they anticipated that she would
be in a position to assist them still more than
what she had done formerly.

After a sound sleep during the night Alvira
awoke at daybreak, so anxious was she to greet
her long-expected lover who was returning from
the war. After preparing her toilet she then

148 Alvira, alias Orea.

sat down to her desk and wrote a card to Duke
Montague, stating she heard that his regiment
would arrive to-day, and beseeched him to
grant her an interview. Now she shall hand
this card to hin, if she gets an opportunity, when
he passes by with his regiment. She also states
that she has an apartment engaged in the Inter-
national Hotel, and writes upon the card the
name of the hotel, also the number of the room,
so that when Duke Montague is at liberty he
shall proceed directly to the place. Now the
time of their arrival was almost up. Alvira has
just time to proceed to the station. She de-
parted, and on arriving near the station she had
to push her way through the swaying crowd,
and proceeding on she accidently ran up against
her former instructor, who was greatly astonish-
ed at her appearance there. He inquired why it
was that she was here in this surging crowd.
Alvira answered him that she had ccnne to Lon-
don to receive from the Bank of England the
amount his late wife, the Duchess, willed to her,
and after she received the amount she was in-
terested in witnessing tlie army, which had then
arrived. After relating this to him the forward,
pressing throng separated them both, and they
did not meet again, Alvira being carried with
the throng right to the line of march, and wit-
nessed the army as tlkey passed by. It was then
her sharp eyes caught the one object of her

Alvira, alias Ore a. 149

heart, and she passed her card to him, who had
not noticed her, but placed the card in his 3oat
pocket, still keeping in line on the march. Al-
vira at once made her way to the Intei-national
Hotel, and went direct to the apartment she had
selected, to remain there until his arrival. The
minutes seemed hours as she waited for his
coming. At length he arrived and went direct
to the number written on the card, and gently
touched the electric button, which bnmght Al-
vira immediately to the door, where they both
embraced each other. He remarked Alvira had
kept her promise with him, which he respected
her for, and inquired of her if she was then pre-
pared to marry him.

Alvira then replied instantly that she was
willing as quickly as he desired.

He told Alvira that to-morrow, here in Lon-
don, they would wed privately, then return to
Davenport to her estate and chateau.

jilvira told him that she was resigned to his
f)roposition, and informed him that his mother,
the late Duchess, left him her residence, and to
herself the money which she gave to his mother
when the Duke and his mother came to visit her,
when Alvira and her instructor dissolved their
partnership and resumed their Christian names.
So now his mother's husband, formerly her in-
structor, dwells in his residence, for he thought
the Duke was slain in battle. However, Alvira

150 Alvira, alias Orea.

informed him it was a mistake, for she read a
report that he was still living and expected to
return home; so here Alvira arrived in London
to meet him, and lelated this information to the
Duke, which may be of much consequence to
him in regard to his late mother's residence.

The Duke then called Alvira a little witch, foi-
she was interesting herself in his absence, look-
ing out for his interests here in London, for
which he prized her more than ever. Then he
states he will have to part from her for a day
and a night, as he has to return to his regiment
to inquire of ins superior officer for a leave of
absence, which will give him an opportunity to
marry her, his deai- Alvira, after which they
shall retire to her estate in Davenport and spend
their honeymoon. Then he shall return to the
Army Headquarters and hand in his resignation.
He shall then have the pleasure of Alvira's
company continually hereafter.

Alvira said to him that she was quite satisfied
to remain there until he returned and would pre-
pare during his ab ence her wedding trousseau
so there would be no hindrance to him when he
; arrived, to conduct her to the residence of the

I Bishop's where they were to be united in wed-

lock. At this moment the young Duke em-
braced Alvira and departed to the Army Head-
quarters with his hopes and prospects all altert-
i ed, musing on the happy tranquil days that were

Alvtra, alias Orea. 151

before him. When proceeding on his way a
stranf^e man approached him and inquired if he
was not the young Duke Montague ?

" Yes," he rephed, " that was his title and his
name."

The Duke also recognized the stranger as Mr.
Tremble his late mother's second husband.

Mr. Tremble then told him he was right, also
that he had read in the newspa{)era of the Sou-
dan Army returning to London, and he desired
an interview with him on important matters,
also that he searched for him at the arrival of
the march from the station to the barracks, then
lost sight of him, which disappointed him very
much, but on returning home met him here.

Then Duke Montague told Mr. Tremble that
he was exceedingly pleased to meet him and
asked him to relate his business to him ?

Mr. Tremble said, " Sir, it is this, that his de-
parted mother willed her residence to him and
left Mr. Tremble nothing for himself, now when
she was killed, he continued to occupy her resi-
dence and paid her household servants, also out-
side help, so, as he is about to take to himself
another wife, he will still require the residence
and is willing to pay the same to the Duke, who
was his late mother's heir.

Then Duke Montague told Mr, Tremble that
he would not like to part with his late mother's
residence for any amount of money, which he

:52

Alvira, alias Orea.

could mention or offer, as he earnestly desiiod to
keep it as an heirloom to her remembrance, who
thout^ht so much of him. Still he stated, as
Mr. Tremble was a kind husband to his mother
during her lifetime and since he departed from
her to go to Egypt, but if she had willed Mr.
Tremble her residence then he would not have
objected to her desire in rewarding Mr. Trem-
ble. Therefore he now condescends to grant Mr.
Tremble full possession of her residence, as long
as his life lasts ; this is the recompense he gave
Mr. Tremble for marrying his late mother, who
must liave forgotten him entirely.

But he forgives her, as she was instantly kill-
ed and had no chance to alter her will, which
had been executed before she became his wife.

By Mr. Tremble marrying her the Duke has
succeeded in winning his late pupil the famous
and celebrated " Orea," who is now Alvira Dun-
bar.

She having interviewed him just one hour ago,
and promised him when he departed for the war
in Egypt that she would remain sincere to him
until he returned home again.

She was here now in London avNaitins: his
return in a private apartment in the Internation-
al Hotel, where he departed from her to go and
get his commission in the army, whence he was
going as he met him here.

Well, Mr. Tremble stated, since Duke Monta-

Alvira, alias Orea. 153

gue informed him of what transpired during his
arrivel in London, also the exceeding hospitable
and pleasant manner in which he had treated
him, which he did not expect, so he shall now
relate to him his experience. After his dear
wife was accidentally killed, saying he wrote to
his late pupil, Alvira, relating to her the severe
loss he received when his dear wife was killed.
He then waited patiently to hear from her,
but no letter came from her to him, which
surprised him very much. It was then he
made up his mind to go and visit Alvira in
Davenport where he had met her and enjoyed
her company for some time. He informed her
that the Duke Montague was slain in battle.
Then he asked Alvira if she would become his
wife, but she answered him distinctly that she
would not, as she had read the report that the
young Duke Montague was still alive and was
returning to London with his regiment, who
were the conquerors of the ferocious Dervishes.
Also she promised to become his wife when he
returned to London so she ordered him away
from her chateau, so he left her and proceeded
to the station, where he accidently met another
young lady whom "Orea" made acquaintance of,
when they departed from Liverpool to Edin-
burgh on board the North British Railway pas-
senger train.

Now, when the train arrived at Edinburgh

1 '

):.

154 Alvira, alias Orka.

this young lady, by the name of Miss Bruce,
who was the daughter of a wealthy Scotchman,
fell in love with *' Orea," and he likewise ac
cepted her devotions, and when they departed
from each other she inquired of " Orea " about
when he would become her husband. Then
"Orea" promised her if he would be single in
one year from then he would undoubtedly marry
her, should she visit him at his estate in Daven-
port.

Miss Bruce then remarked she would keep
him to his promise. By this time Miss Bruce
arrived at Davenport Station, and, noticing him,
remarked, " Are you not named Don Rosario ? "

Don Rosario replied he believed he recognized
her as Miss Bruce.

Miss Bruce answered him, yes, that was her

name.

Then Don Rosario stated to her that, at the
time he made her acquaintance before his name
was Don Rosario, but that name was only an
assumed one, for his Christian name is Alfred
Tremble, and " Orea " was his pupil, then dis-
disguised as a young gentleman, her proper
name being Alvira Dunbar, a young lady gifted
in technical pianoforte music. Then he advised
her she would be a complete failure if she were
to appear as a female. Then Miss Alvira Dun-
bar agreed to appear in male attire, and she cer-
tainly proved a great success. When Mr. Trem-

Alvira, alias Orea. 155

hie explained all this to Miss Bruce, she re-
marked that she came all the way to marry a
woman whom she loved, disguised as a man, and
when she returns to Edirihurgh and relates this
story to her parents they shall be very angry
with her. However, she decided not to return
back to Edinburgh again.

Then Mr. Tremble informed her that he had
great compassion for her, and would welcome
her to come with him to London, where he re-
sided in his lute wife's residence.

This surprised Miss Bruce, because she kmw
at the time, then, that he made her acquaint-
ance, he was a single gentleman and instructor
to " Orea." Therefore she decided, and accom-
panied Mr. Tremble to London, and enjoyed his
companionship exceedingly.

He escorted lier all over London, which
pleased her immenvsely, and she was quite satis-
fied to remain with him.

So Mr. Tremble began to think, as he harl
abundant means of his own, that he would now
like an interview withe the young Duke Mon-
tague, who is returning from the war, to know
if he will be willing tostdi his mother's residence
to him, and knowing that he treated him liber-
ally by granting him the residence lie occupied,
which his late wife owned, and willed before
her death to her only son.

Now he refuses to accept it, and makes it a

156

Alvira, alias Gi ,EA.

I "

Hi-

gift to Mr. Tremble, on the conditions that he
was to take Miss Bruce to be his wedded wife,
which he consented to, and intended to accom-
plish.

So Duke Monta<4ue informed Mr.Tremble that
he had coniniunicatud with his late niotlier's bar-
rister, Mr. Bothwoll, and instructed him to
transfer his late mother's will to Mr. Alfred
Tremble, the same being a perfect clear and ie^^al
title, free from all encumbrance.

This Barrister Bothwell did transact for his
much respected friend Duke Montague.

Now, Mr. Tremble and Duke Montague both
parted; the Duke proceeded to the International
Hotel, where he parted with Alvira Dunbar.

When he arrived at her room he found her
arrayed in a handsome costume, and prepared
to accompany him to the altar. During Duke
Montague's absence his own wedding suit which
he ordered before he met Mr. Tremble, had ar-
rived, so he went and d ^Mosed of the garments
he had on, and donned himself in his wedding
suit. Then, when Miss Alvira Dunbar herself
appeared, they were most interestingly arrayed,
and looked the picture of happiness, as they pro-
proceeded to the Bishop's residence, whence they
arrived at the appointed hour. The bridesmaid
and bridegroom, in the presence of Miss Bruce
and Mr. A. Tremble, were there awaiting, and
afterwards they were married by the same
Bishop.

Alvira, alias Orea.

167

After the Bisliop performed both ceremonieR
and made each one of them man and wife, they
handed him a valuable token in respect for his
services, for which he spoke kind words to them.
Then they departed, and arrived at the Interna-
tional Hotel, where a Bupper was prepared by
the genial host and a pnrty now of the
real Duke of Davenport, composing all his
many friends and war comrades, also Mr.
Tremble and his friends. Everybody congratu-
lated the newly-married couples during the feast,
joy and pleasure prevailed until the early morn-
ing dawned, when they all had to depart with
their friends.

Duke Montague and his wife left for her
estate in Davenport. Mr. Tremble, with his
wife, departed to her residence in Belgrave
Square in London. Before they separated each
one pronii-sed to visit the other in their respect-
ive homes on fiequent occasions, but the young
Duke had not long established himself in his
wife's residence when Queen Victoria summoned
him to Windsor Castle to decorate hiin with the
Victoria Cross foi- his gallantry in action during
the siege of Omdurman, in Egypt.

So he obeyed the Queen's summons and made
preparations to accomplish her desire, then in-
stantly proceeded to London where he arrived
in due season, and was surp ed at seeing some
of his comrades likewise awaiting to receive
their honors.

ISS

Alviha, alias Orea.

Then the orderly approached them and es-
corted them, one by one, before the presence of
Her Majestv, where hIio was surrounded by her
Ministers and Gt'nerais.who assisted HerMajesty
in contributing^' tl»c hon-irs to tlie worthy heroes.
As she mentioned eacli of their names, one by
one came forward and knelt down on his knees
and kissed her hand. Then the Queen ordered
them to arise wlien she pinned the Victoria Cross
upon their breasts, remarking, " That which
they received was the honor she bestowed upon
them for their heroism."

They then thanked Her Majesty and retired
witli the approbation and apphiuse of Her Ma-
jesty's Ministers and Generals.

After this ceremony was finished, the young
Duke Montague returned home to his affection-
ate young wife, who was not well pleased at
parting with him so quickly after their marriage.
Yet, as he returned with the Victoria Cross on
the lapel of his dress coat she seemed pleased
and forgot all her loneliness when he was absent
fi'om her.

Now they are passing their years in happiness
and a young heir is born to them who shall in-
herit the Dukedom of Davenport.

We now return to Mr. A. Tremble and his
wife, and find they are settled dow^n comfortably
in their substantial residence, and enjoying all
the pleasures that they can well afford. They

r ■• i'i'

Al.VlKA, ALIAS OREA.

159

also have an lieir to enjoy and bring up to ster-
ling manhood.

Now 1 draw tiiis story to a tinisli, trusting' my
patrons will derive some pleasun- and pastime in
reading it as I spent while composing it. This
is my desirr, — the author,

J. DUFF HKNDEKSON.

THE PRAIRIE MAIDER

Adieu I my city friends that live around,
Away for tlie western prairie ] am bound ;
I'm weary liere of all I see,
I long for the prairie breezes free.
The cool, fresh, reviving western prairie breezes
Will cure my mind and heart's diseases,
And bring me back to vigorous strength
Before my days have reached their lengtii.
My heart yearns for the western fields.
The baimy plains, the soil that yiehls
Abundant crops, the beautiful praii-ie rose,
And all the richest flowers that gr(»w8.
I see much of filth right hei-e,
Let me bask where air is clear,
Where I can wander fi'ee and far,
Beneath the sun, moon and star,
Musing at times along some ancient road,
Where bygone Indian warriors have trod,
Or where some Indian maiden has wept
By a mound where long have slept
A brave beloved, and long ago departed.
On these paths I'll tread light-hearted.
For a master is there to teach
What mortal man can't expect to reach,
Such secret eloquence is there to thrill
The mind and soul for to fill.
O ! speed swiftly, weary weeks of time,
To bring me to my manhood's prime,
11 (161)

162

The Prairie Maidkx.

When I can wandei- fur and explore

Like that once great Florentine of yore ;

Where I can drink of nature's fountain

While travelling thr'ough the vale or mountain,

Or lingering near by some balmy grove

Where great wild hei'ds of liuffalo rove,

Or by the prairie lake to go,

Where the beautiful fresh waterlilies grow,

Where the wild sparkling prairie roses thrive.

Where I there sweetest fragrance will dei'ive.

And where the pretty prairie daisy clusters.

Where the weeping buttercups, their sisters ;

Or by some distant mountain's running spi-ings,

I'll ease awhile my restless wings,

And drink of sweet nature all I can.

For that, indeed, is life to man.

Among the fresh, bushy- waving prairie grass

The bright balmy sununer days I'll pass

Until the shades of night come on,

There in some peaceful shade sleeping alone.

Where naught can or w(ndd disturb my peace

Except those cute inoscjuitoes come to teas^,

When the firefly lights the way

To show the wretched things their prey,

Then I may have reason to growl,

When I hear them come to prowl ;

Or when the hawk awakes my slumber

By coming round to take my number.

That she may her nightly visit pay

To a lonely stranger by the way ;

Or the grizzly growling wolf and bear

At night may venture from their lair

Thk Prairie Maiden. 168

To take c[uirk inventory of n)y stock

Behind a rising WlufFor craggy rock.

Or tiie slyly, fussy, crafty fox

May venture much neai-er to ray box,

And take from me my morning meal,

The want of wliich I'd likely feel ;

Or those treacherous, coiling, smooth-charming snakes

May awaken me with their rattling breaks

To coax me to their lonely rei;ion,

Where they are loi-ds of their dominion.

Then are thesfj pests to be compared

With what I've seen and often heard

In our towns and in our cities,

What we often hear and often pities —

Men and women moi'e poisonous than mosquitoes ;

With cruel, deathly venom they beset us,

Far more dreaded than the night hawk

For their disgusting, vile and filthy talk.

The ferocious wolves and bears are tame

Compared to men I've known by name,

Who prowl around with their dirk and knife

To rob the merchant and his wife.

The fox is not half so sly

As the men who steal and lie,

Nor the coiling, charming snakes so bad

As the bewitching brothel -keeping jade.

Whose arts and charms decoy the youth

To wreck their manhood in their booth.

For three long months I've wandered airy

By rivei', lake or distant prairie,

Where naught of humanity T have met,

Plenty of tish, fowl, beast I've ate

1()4

The FiiAiKiE Maidkn.

Until I've grown in sti-ength a 8aiiis(m ;

Cheeks that once were skin and bone

Have now grown fat to look up(jn.

Tli(> autumn now will Ik; coining fast,

Prepare for home T must at last.

T see the dark clouds floating high,

Reminding me of a storm that's nigh

T must look out a shelter place.

For prairie storms are hard to face.

Yonder ! I see a birch-l)ark tent,

A shelter to me God lias sent.

Look ! an old Indian comes from there,

I will ask his tent to share.

"Oood Indian, can you a shelter give

To one who on the prairies live

Like a poor lonely I'ecluse here,

Without a home or shelter near?"

My speech he did not undei-stand.

But with a motion of his hand

He showed me to a shattered tent

Beneath an oak tree that was bent

And giving me a dull burning light,

He turned away and said "(rood night !"

Straight off to his tent I went

In search of quiet rest, as sent.

When, behold ! a maiden on the ground,

Around her form a skirt was wound.

t stood greatly astonished, bewildered and amazed

As on the sleeping maiden I gazed

Quietly down on my knees I cre[;t

Over to the side the maiden slept.

There with my pencil for to trace

A well-shaped form and perfect face —

■ <f. ,

The Pkairik Maiden. 165

A tVuni and face of l)eauty fair,

A head covered o'er with golden \\n\v

That hung in length below her waist

And lay in plaits upon her breast —

A breast that surged and heaved majestically

Like foaming billows out on the sea,

When my eyes her waist did scan,

So neat a fairy hand could span,

With hips extending wide and gran<l,

Down to her thighs they did expand —

Thighs so plump and rare to see,

Just tapering downward gently to her knee ;

Her calf so well proportioned out.

Not too small noi' yet too stout ;

With ankles so neat, trim and small.

And feet she scarcely had at all.

And when the midnight hour was spent.

Knowing not how to leave the tent,

I took the robe by her worn

And spread it o'er her uncovered form ;

Then left hei' there in sweet repose.

Forgetting not the dreary tent to close.

Weary and tired 1 looked all around

For a smooth spot on the ground

To rest until the dawn of day

Light up the scene where maiden lay ;

Krt' the sun rose in the east

This young maiden stood before mo dr(>s8od,

Gaziiig down upon me as I lay

On the dewy grass at the bj-eak of day,

And as a tiger oft has i-an

Upon its prey, upon me thus began :

166

Thk Praii;ie Maiden.

"Pale-faced sti'anger, wlience caine you here T'

She spoke with anger loud and clear :

" What Eastern city hast thou camt^ tVctin,

These wild Western prairies to roam,

And why lie d(jwn beside my tent ?

Speak, stranger, speak (luick, or else repent."

No sooner did she thus angrily command,

Holding a glittering dagger in her liand.

No savage tigress had more devouring eyes

When near a laml) halt' her size.

As she, when o'er my trembling form,

Stood ready at the fort to storm,

" Listen ! maiden, listen unto me, hark !"

L )sing my way, the night was dark.

When T heard the prairie dogs cry

Where yonder old, shattered wigwam lit'

Fi'om where came an old man bent.

I begged for lodging in his teat,

Here he sent me for the night

(iiving me this dull, burning lantein light ;

And when I threw these folds aside

A lovely sleeping maiden there T spied,

And quickly then the tent I closed,

Down here upon the dewy grass rei)()se(l.

Until you sweet maid do now appear ;

Bent o'er me with a dagger clear.

O maid, throw down that dagger raised,

True, on thy matchless form I gazed.

For naught my eyesight then could screen

As 1, by chance, had stepped therein ;

" Why, fair maid, dost thou stay near

The wild Indian, in his wigwam here ?

Thfo Prairif. Maidkn.

167

Fof T can see by thy face

Thou coniest not of the Indian race."

By this, the anf,a'y maiden's silence l)roke ;

"Come to my tent,"' she calmly spoke,

'Sit down while I a tale unfold,

T trust you will not think me bold "

When quietly seated in her shattt^red tent,

Her face to mine l)eing forward bent.

Quickly then she mustered all her strength

To tell this pitiful tale in length.

'• I am a poor r)i-phaiit American born,

From my countiymen F was torn.

That I. V wlien gallant Oeneral Custer stood

To fighb a foe hidden in the wood,

In the grass like snakes they lay,

Waiting until our brave t»-oops came by ;

It was then that cunning Sitting Bull

Did Custer and his brave scouts fool.

Alas ! sad day that was for me

When wild Indian men won the victory,

For in that l)attle I was tossed.

My parents and my friends I lost.

Methinks I ^ea the battle plan

Which General Custer drew then clear

When scouts returned at early dawn

To tell the foe was near.

Quiet as death, a stillness calm

Prevailed, then for a little while

Loud the bugle call to ai-ni

Into the death dark valley lile.

First to reach the valley low

With scouts was gallant General Custer,

168

TnK Praiiue ^Iaiden.

His troops following in a r(jw,

And (juickly all did muster.

They thought the foe were few

The day the fearful fight began

Upon our scattered troops they ran —

Each man a riHe (juickly drew,

A dead sure aim to take ;

O'er the grass the bullets tiew

Our foremost ranks stagger and bi-eak,

Still, a scattered few stand squared

Where their dead comrades were lying,

Although outnumVjered, on they dared

O'er the suffering, wounded, fast dyii»g.

Now hark ! the Indian war cries

Resound fai- o'er the distant plain

As from the grass they rise

Like swarms of mosquitoes after I'ain.

The first and last to fight

Was our gallant commander, ' ieneral Custer,

His troops dying in his sight,

The wounded all around him cluster.

Alas ! tlie fatal shot was tired,

Tt pierced our brave General's heart :

On the battle field he died,

True, gallant hero of his part.

'Twas then the fearful work began —

The scalping knife is quickly wrought.

And ere the setting of the sun

The paleface scalps are brought

To show their squaws and papoose.

The one glory of their life

A paleface scalp hanging loose

I, i,

Thk PiiAiRiK Maiden. Ull)

Beside their keeii-cuttiug, scalping knife.

Wlien that blofxly massacre was o'er,

No more white men to kill,

They captured me and the store ;

Tn (vimp, ti.wiiy behind the hill,

Burnt my parents at the stake

Spaied me for my maiden's sake.

A chieF, in war costume arrayed,

Said, ' Come, pale lily, })e not afraid ;

You are now the great chief's s((uaw,

A braver warrior the lily ne'ei- saw ;'

I asked him to take* my life

Sooner tlum become the great chief's wife.

All my pleading was in vain

He brought me far across the plain

And swore he loved me and would try

To please me in the by-and-by.

Then, pointing to the high distant hills

O'er which dark clouds hung in rills,

Said, 'TluM'emy own villaiie wigwjun stands

Where all my best braves together l)and.

Hither I'll take you, pale lily fair.

To be my s(juaw and future heir.'

On his dark face a scornful look

My childish heart then scarce could brook.

His wide drawn nose, that downward curled,

Bespoke death and defiance to the world ;

His lips drawn tight, his form erect

As he stood silent long to reflect ;

T cried aloud, no help was near

My throbbing, wounded, broken heart tt) cheer.

For three long months we crossed plains

Unsheltered from the storms, wind and rains ;

170 The Praihik Maidkn.

Crossed rivers deep, wide, and treachen us swamps
Till my poor body ached with cramps.
Never out of the great chiefs sight
Could T be trusted day or night.
Until by chance my watchers were asleep.
I onward sped, with bound and leap.
Until a strange man came to view,
With whom T at once did sue
To take me with him right away,
Even at that late hour of day.
Although my speech he did not know,
He pointed to this tent, said ' Go.'
Here I came to rest and watch,
.Till sleep did my wearied eyelids catch."
"O ! maiden dear, your story just told,
Has made my very blood run cold,
And if you will my aid accept,
This strong muscular ai-m will thou protect,
Until we cross yon distant mountain peak,
And far, far beyond a shelter seek
In an old miners' camp I know.
Nestling in a rocky gorge far below,
Where welcome they will give to you.
Who have braved many thousand dangers through.
Both food and rest you'll there obtain.
Before you cross the long dreary plain.
At once we must depart from here,
Before thy Indian capturers will draw near."
The maiden then calmly stood and listened.
While sad tears about her eyelids glistened ;
When all her kind tender feelings raised.
With gentle thankfulness at once she praised

Thk Prairie Maidhn. 171

Tilt! ^onoj'ous, munly offer which h(; made,
To guide a lost and friendlesa maid.
He gently took her by the hand,
Said all his aid she could conunand,
And when at last they did depart
To love, each found a willing heart.
Onward they went, while yet 'twas day,
O'er many a rough and crooked way,
H(! <;uiding her witli child-like care,
Where l)rave warrior chieftains would not dai-e.
Long before the mountain top they crossed,
Tlie light of day was almost lost ;
Cold and darknf^ss now upon them reigned.
Before the distant miners' cnnip they gained.
It was upon the dieary mountain height.
They passed the long, cold, di-eary night,
Sheltered high up on the mountain bluff,
They made a bed of mossy stulV.
Hut sleep they both could not there.
So silent lay the lonely, loving pair,
And when the morning dawn did break,
The maiden still lay quite wide awake,
Though soundly slept her faithful guide.
As she rose quietly from his side,
And going quickly to a ruiniing brook.
Where her accustomed morning bath she took,
And had the morning meal quickly prepared.
Before her faithful guide yet had stirred.
Then gently placing upon his soft cheek,
Fresh lilies from the swift-running creek ;
Then ran quickly to hide herself away.
Until the fresh spring water's cooUng spray,

172

The Puamuk Maidkn.

Had trickh'd away down liis hcMiving hn-ast,

Awoko liiin tVom his sleejt and I'fst,,

Tlien (iiiiclvly v'\h\iv^ from liis mossy Iwd,

Ho thought his lovely mai<l had Hed ;

And caj^'erly far round aUout he .scanned,

Naught a inaid was neai* at hand.

Towards the junning creek he did advance,

And eyed the morning m(;al by chance,

The cool water lilies where he lay,

The I'oaring, hlazing lire that burnt away.

The boiling kettle, and the greasy pan,

That broiled the bacon when she i-an.

All these were .signs which plainly told,

She was not stole V)y Indians bold.

The morning suti .shone bright and gay,

As all alone he sani;- this lay :

" O ! whei'e has my maiden tlown,

Away in the darkness did she go.

And will T never, never know.

Why she went away unknown ?

They stole her fror)i my side

And left instead, a water lily.

To uharm and pleas(; her Willie

When his eyes would open wide

Hark I a voice, I know 'tis lu-rs.

Corning tlu-ough the softening vale below.

To leaAe iny guide, I'll not go,

I have oidy hid among th'' lirs.

() I come my prairie maid away,

Time we were gone from here ;

Down the vale a welcome cheei-

The hardy miners us will pay."

TnK I'kaiuik Maidkn. M'A

'I'lir iiiinfMs' cHnip lit, length was rrii«'li«'(I,

'I'lu-y lo(>k»Ml at each of us hewitclu'd,

riiquiiinjf from wliat distant pait we ramc,

[nvitiiii;' us kindly with them to remain.

We told them of our wandtuinf^ far-,

By daylight, and hy midnight star ;

And where the maiden I had met.

Hei- sad story I did relate.

xVt hearini( of, on(> listening minei- eried,

" My dauL,dit(M', whom I thought had died,

You found, my gallant, brave young soji,

A l)ride so fair, so rieh, you have won ;

To her to-night thou shalt be wed,

I will provide you with home and })ed."

The maiden spoke : " I'^ather, thou art kind,

A braver son you could not Hnd ;

Delighted I am to find you here,

My life, my love, your life will t-heer."

Her father spoke gently, grasping her soft hand,

" I thought you, too, liad left this land ;

On that day of Custer's cruel massacre,

My God has spared thy life to me

For which I thank my God most true,

For the way he brought me through ;

Since that day T brok<! my captive trace,

I ti'a veiled far anrl reached this place.

Tn yonder rock T found pui'e gold,

Enough for all my days tenfold ;

And you shall be a bride to-night,

For him who did your battles tight.'

A happy loving pair were niari-ied there,

The feast the miners all did share :

: li

The Pkaiiue Maiden.

Aii(] many startling stories told and heard,
WIh'Ii Hist the mining' shaft thny .-leaicd,
Searching for what they now have found,
Till hours and days made many w^cks.
'['hen, O then, the miner master speaks,
And miners to their work quick go,
And drills are heard and hannners blow.
For they toil with ease and pleasure
All day digging for the precious treasui'e.
In yonder fail- city in palace strong,
The happy prairie lovers now dwelt long,
Their family grown up wise and well,
Do listen to the tales they tell
Of l)ygone days, and struggles sore,
That oft their father and mother hore.
The miner master, too, has gone to rest,
Son and daughter weeping on his breast,
Parting forever with him here below.
To meet again in Heaven they know.

MILLIONS FOR HER.

A DRAMA IN FOUR ACTS.

DRAMATIS PERSONiE.

Sir R. Allfiston, a Pri^'ate Banker.

Ardrettia Allfiston, a son of Sir Alltisti<n.

Frank Ridley, Sir AllHston's Manager.

Lord Mordant, ) rp I-. i

TT T> > J-^^'o Desperadoes.

Hon. Boswell, j ^

John Donetia, a Porter.
Mr. Archer, a Valet.
Herita Calvin, a Detective.
Lady Allfiston, Sir AllHston's wife.
Miss Marvettia Allfiston, a daughter of Sir Allfis-
ton.
Lady <^tOrdon, a Visitor.
Deuoria, Marvettia's Maid.
EvELEEN, Lady Alltiston's Maid.

Oflficers, Waiters, Attendants, etc.

SYNOPSIS.

ACT L— Scene 1. — A sitting-room. Scene 2. —
A meeting-place on a public road. Scene 3. — A
drawing-room in mansion of Sir AUtiston.

ACT II. — ScENF L — A baggage-room. Scene 2.
— A sitting-room in the Marseilles Hotel. Scene
3. — A banqueting hall. Scene 4. — A Wctiting-room.

(175)

I7(i Millions for Heij.

ACT III. "ScENK I. -A private sitting-ntoni in
hotel. ScKNK 2. -A private sitting-room in liotel.
ScENR :i.- Sir AUliston's sitting-room in mansion.
Scene k -A sitting-room in Marseilles Hotel.

ACT TV.— Scene 1. — A drawing-room in Marseil-
les Hotel. Scene -2.- The arena of battle. Scene
:]. — A drawing-room in Alarseilles Hotel. Scene
4.— A private dining-room in Marseilles Ho el.
Scene o. — A hall- room.

ACT I.

Scene T. A SltUny Room. Enter Sii{ II. Allfiston
and Mu. Frank Uidley.

Sir Allfiston. Mr. Ridley, T'm exceedingly pleas-
ed to find you here where we promised to meet to
ai-range some important business matters relating to
my late secretary, Sir :\lordant. Can you inform me
the amount his executors withdrew from our bank
after his decease ?

Ridley. Sir AllHston, yes. They withdrew forty
thousand pounds, and his estate was valued at one
hundred thousand, making his realty one hundred
and forty thousand.

Sir Allfiston. Fie has left no heir to claim this
fortune, for his only son who departed in his youth
as a cadet on board a British man -of war never
moi-e was heard of.

Ridley. Still his father's executors have placed
the one hundred and forty thousand pounds in the
care of a responsible trust corporation, expecting he
will yet turn up.

Millions for Her. 177

Sir Allfistont. Should he not turn up this larf^e
amount would go to the ji;overnment.

Ridley. Decidedly so.

Sir Allfiston. How unfortunate for his son, he
being his father's idol, and he expected great things
of him.

Ridley. Sir Alltiston, you forget your own son
also went in his youth on board a British man-of-war
and was wrecked and reported drowned in mid-ocean.
Have you received proof to that effect ?

Sir Allfiston. All the proof I have is what was
chronicled in the English press at the time of the
disaster to the British man-of-war at Gibraltar.

Ridley. Sir Alliiston, that is no proof whatever
of his being drowned. He may have been saved ;
stranger things have transpired to my knowledge.

Sir Allfiston. Well, should he i-eturn to us
again, we would welcome him as the prodigal was
welcomed to his father's home. Like him 1 would
kill the fatted calf and prepare him a feast that he
would never depart from his parents again.

Ridley. Sir Allfiston, you may have an opportu-
nity to accomplish what you proposed in some future
time ; such has happened before in our time, and will
happen again. Come, we now must proceed to other
Vjusines. Here, T hand you a statement of our iii
come and liabilitie'^, and the interest due to the share-
hold(irs -it the end of this year. The statement is
correctjy stated there. You can examine them at
your earliest opportunity. Should you find any
errors or deficiencies in the account, return it inune-
diately to me and I will look it over once more.
12

178 Millions for Hek.

Sir Allfiston. Mr. Ridley, T will examine your
report more carefully, having no doubt you'll succeed
in finishing it correctly as you always have done
hitherto.

Ridley. 1 had almost forgotten to inform you
that an attempt was made to rob our vault. We
found the combijiation opened, so the burglars must
have been disturbed before they succeeded in search-
ing the vault, where they could have made away with
a large amount of money. It was fortunate for us
they were dislurlx'd. I C(jnmiunicated with the chief
of the detective department in Scotland Yard. They
are searching for the scoundrels. I exceedingly hope
they will be arrested before they get another oppor-
tunity to fulfil their purpose.

Sir Allfiston. 1 trust that nothing will trans-
pire to give them a second opportunity to commit a
burglary — if they will, it may not be pleasant for
them should they be caught in the act.

Ridley. I alone understand the combination of
the lock. It were impossil)le for any of the bank
employees to have accomplished the opening of it. I
have warned the nightwatchman to be more atten-
tive in guarding the bank from future marauders
and roV)bers, so Sir Allfiston I surmise there will be
no further danger of annoyance from that source.

Sir Allfiston. I trust it will be so. {Loohimj
at his watrh.) It is time for you to retire now, as I
have an appointment to meet Lady Allfiston and my
daughter here.

Ridley. Then I, Sir Allfiston, return to the bank
to resume my duty, bidding you adieu for the present.

Exit Ridley.

Millions for II kr.

170

Enfp.r Lady Ali.fistox and Daughter. Sir Allfis-
TON desire's then) to he seated.

Sir Ai.lfistov. You are punctual to our appoint-
ment. A[y manage!' lias just departed. We both
have been transacting important business. T have
only t'» read over his statement to our Board of Di-
rectors, which T have no doubt they will approve —
then we all will write our signatures to it. T then
will have liberty to enjoy a period of rest on the Con-
tinent. T may reside in Paris for a time ; you both
will join me. You may now make preparations. I
will inform you a^ain tlie time of our departure.

Lady Allfiston. Sir Alllistou, T am exceedingly
delighted at your wisdom at taking a nmch-needed
rest, after many ye'ars of constant continement,
directing the affairs of your hu-ge linancial institu-
tion.

Marvettia. Father, I thank you also for includ-
ing my mother and I with you on this pleasant Ujur
to the Continent, also to resitle for a time in Paris.
It will be to nw one of the greatest events in my life
to review that renowned city, Pai'is.

Siif Allfiston. Yes, ^larvietta, (o you it will be
a great event, but for your mother and myself, we
were privileged in beholding the magnificence and
grandeur of that gi-eat city, and also other parts of
France.

{A Valet enters ivith note for Sir Allfiston, which
inforins him that his carriage is already at the front
door). He theji remarks : Our carriage has arrived,
we will proceed to our home. They retire. E.rlt.

END of scene I. — ACT I.

ISO MlI-LIONS FOR HkH.

Scene II. - A meeting place on a public rod'/. Enter

BoswELL and Mordant. (Boswell watchiny

Mordant opening vault).

Bos WELL.

What am I ? A complete ruined man.

All the wealth of my ancestors s(i[uandered,

Not a shilling left, in debt thousands.

An outcast from my former friends

Forever, ever despised l)y all my relations.

How is a man to regain character,

His fortune, and win back friends again ?

Shall 1 now end my own existence —

This be the be all, end-all here

Of a wretched broken-down wild career.

! death thou art preferable to me.
The act is finished, the curtain di-(jpped.
No one shall remember a poor wretch.
In the gi-ave who shall pity me,

Who shall slander me, many cut-throats.

Death come. I care not what happens.

In the clay put my body away,

The last act of a wretched life.

P lying the price for my past record

Tliis little drug shall soon settle everything

1 shall be sc^uare with the world.

[lie raises cup to his mouth —MouDAm enters).

Mordant
( ) : hold, stranger. 1 have been listening
To you reciting your last sad soliloquy.
You seem to be severely distressed, sir.
There's a way to rectify your record.

Millions for Her. isl

He a man, don't end vour own life.
Life is short at any rate, strange i-.
Without cutting it shortei- by your hand.
My advice is live, and die naturally.

Bos WELL.

Not awaie that you were playing .'^[)y
Or I would not have acted .so.
Now since you cut the scene short
What act would you have me do
If having to live on here longer?

Mordant.
If I knew your past record, stranger,
If as bad as my own was.
Then it must be very bad indeed.
Believing my record more black than youis
We are both dyed the same color.
Stranger, the past now we must forget ;
Look to the future and be wise ;
We're only in the prime of life,
Should make a inark in the world.
What think you of this proposition, stranger?

BOSWELL.

Thinking of nothing. Death to me preferable

Mordant.
Bah ! forget the past for the future.

Bos WELL.

Show me how to forget the past ?

MOKDANT.

Will you be a partner of mine

In a project under consideration by me ?

182 Mii-i.ioNs i"()i{ Her.

|V)H\VKI,I,.

Shall do aiiytliiiig to haiiisli my niist^iy

Tliat holds me like a vin yi-ip.

\Vh!i,l,s your pi'oject ? My fuiswci' you'll havt;.

MOKDANT.

Don't you want wealth? your life redeemed.
Win back all you lost, be esteemed ;
Admired by all your formei- <»ld friends.

BOSWKLL.

Well, are you speaking now the truth 'i

MOIIDANT.

Yes, luiving something good for you
[f you will become my partner
And swear you'll keep a secret ever.

BOSWKLL.

I give you my word of honor ;
Take it, if you thiidv it good.

MOKDANT.

Listen I If you have ears to hear

I'll tell \ou something good to cheer.

You know Sir AllHston of the Grange,

The millionaire, where his millions are stored,

At the present time one hundred thousand,

It shall be ours within live hours.

BOSWELL.

My boy, how can you get it 1

Mordant.
Be not excited. Look \ this little key, ishoivs key)
Which shall give us admittance to the vault ;
My father, whom you knew not, died.
He being Sir Alltiston's Private Secretary,

MrujoNs FOH Hei{. 183

At my fntlior's dcafli, stealinu- tliis key,
Whioli shall uivc iis om- liuii(lrc<l thou^aiul —
Fifty for you, fifty foi- me, stnmger.

BOSWKI,!-.

Is tliere any danger of being detected ;
Tf caught, Penitentiary for life for both?

INI OKI) A NT.

Tt can V)e dune without any risk ;
There shall not be any great danger ;
With your help T shall defy detection ;
You be spy, I'll do the work.

BOSWELL.

How shall we proceed, tell me now.
In this goodly work, you and 1 ?

Mordant,
Five h'jurs from now, meet me,
This night, down at the Maple Hollow.
Let your signal to me be lilack,
My answer to you shall be white.
I'll place you over on the lookout
Where most danger of detection shall occur.
Then finishing my wor-k shall receive you.
We shall then retire to arrange matters
And sliare the treasure with each other,
Me always being known as Lord Mordant,
You shall be called my Private Secretary,
We shall then travel on the Continent
As English Pointers, to see what game
We shall run down in our travels.
Now, my Secretary, what do think ;
Is this not a real modern romance 1

184 Millions for Hkh.

BoSWELL.

Luck to your enterprise ; win or fail,
I shall with you ride or s.iil,
And in a fairer land shall dwell.

MOHDAN'T.

Time has come, the place you know,
Adieu, we'll meet in grief or pain,
Yea, in sunshine, storm or in rain.

Exit both.

Enter Boswell and Mordant.

BoSWELL.

The place is as quiet as a graveyard,
No sound or sight of a living being ;
' Tis the time we appointed to meet.
T sliall give him the signal, {hlack)

Mordant enters.
Mordant.
Answers white ; we have met at last.
You see that hill on the Turnpike :
Go, conceal yourself, look to the front.
If any living being come that way
Go to the gate of the vault,
Shout " Traveller." I will come to you ;
If no one comes in an hour's time
We will meet where we now part.

Mordant retires.
Boswell.
I obey. Good luck be v^^ith us then
In this most daring, risky, bold transaction.
Now tilling my contract down at the hill.
Give the signal to my trusty comrade.

Millions kok Hek. 185

When the last, houf has j^one past

Meet in the place whejo we parted,

At the (Jianyc, to receive tit'ty thousand.

lioswKLL ret iff s.
MoswKM- ri'lnrns ityaiii.

It is now the time to meet.

He will no doubt rue gladly greet

When he has found ii e punctually here.

Enter Mordan r.
Mordant.
Having now come, in the coast clear 'I

BoawELL.
Yes, Sir Mordant, no one came near.

Mordant.
Just when leaving the vault I saw
A human figure in the moonlight yonder,
With a kodak, and operating on me.
He went away in the opposite direction
From me, when coming to meet you.
There is no danger to be afraid of.
He won't follow, not knowing our business.
Now, stranger, we will divide this money,
And, both separating, meeting again in Paris.

Exit both.
Enter Mordant and Boswell.
Mordant, Take my advice, invest in some profit-
able business that will return substantial interest.
This is what I intend transacting myself. Don't you
understand, we will double this amount in a very
short period.

IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

■>^£

1.0

I.I

1.25

V^K» 12.5

ill 1.8

U IIIL6

fj^//i,.

<?>^

N^ ^>\ Wk\

'<?)

186

Millions for Her.

BoswELL. Tluit's all very well, Moi-dant ; hut it
\V(»ul(l not bo safe to invest stolen money in this
neighborhood. The authorities of the bank will have
found out their loss l)y this time, may have the
hounds of the law on our train and I would
advise you not to invest it hei-e but depart
to another country, say Paiis, Ft ance, where we will
not be recognized - also be at liberty to invest our
stolen money to advantage.

Mordant. T was not aware you had such intelli-
gence and good judgment as I now comprehend you
have. I will abide by your advice, for I believe it is
worth accepting. Then let us depart together in-
stantly to Paris, whej-e I often desired to visit.
This will undoubtedly put the detectives off the
trial, and their effoi-ts will bo unsuccessful in captur-

ing us.

BosvvELL. Now let us make preparations directly
to depart for- Paris; we will not he safe remaining here
any longer.

Mordant. Well, how quickly can you make nec-
essary preparations ? I can prepare in about three
hours' time.

BosvvEi.L. Where will ; join you at the end of
thi'ee hours ?

Mordant. On board the steamboat i^ore?" that de-
parts from Dover at that time for Calais, E'rance.

BoswELL. We part now to meet again on board
the Rove7\ where we will bid farewell to England.
Arriving at Paris we will reside at the Marseilles
Hotel, where we will invest our money by speculating
in stocks. It is the most practical way to increase

"'J«fV»'"i""twl I -WW

Millions for Her.

187

<»ui' fiiiaiK'cs, and tlit; most attractive city to enjoy

pleasure when we liave opptji'tunity to pursue thai

pleasure.

MoHDANT. The multitudinous attractions in Paris

cannot ))e found in any other metropole of Europe.

We will enjoy ourselves exceedingly when we have

leisure to view the magnificent, artistic city of Paris,

Now we go and make preparations, meeting each

other on the Rover.

Exit.

END OF SCENIC II.

ScKNK III. — .7 drawl ■ij-rodin lit the nuotslon, Sir

Allfiston with his fainl/i/ there, viz., Lady

Allfiston and AlARVHyrriA.

Sir Allfiston.
T have received a note from my manager
With very bad news, especially at this time
When we are preparing for the Continent.
Having received a call from my manager,
He informs me that my vault was unlocked
And robbed of one hundred thousand pounds.
They have no knowledge of the robbers,
The Police Department have been informed also ;
A detective tells me they have a clue
To the discovery of the bold robbers.
This important affair shall detain us here.
However, dear illeen, you continue your prepara-
tions.

Lady Allfiston.

Sir Allfiston, shall it be a great loss ;
Shall it affect your financial standing any,
Or cause a run on the Allfiston Bank 1

188

Millions for Her.

i»t

n:-^

Sir Allfiston.
The firm of Allfiston Bios, ct Company,
Would stand twenty such shocks as that
Without the firm feeling the least affected
Besides, the thieves may be run down.
However, Illeen, we shall have our trip;
Get your lady's maid and my valet
To prepare our warbrobe. See to it,
Also that Marvettia takes her best dresses.
All must be ready as quickly as possible.
Marvettia and your maid shall accompany ub,
Also my valet and John the porter.
When you have the trunks all packed
Have John take them to the station,
Also tack a card on each trunk.
Before he sends them on their journey.
Address, Sir Allfiston and family, of London,
For Paris, on the Merchants Steam Line.
I shall now go to my bank,
My manager for to see and thank,
Make financial arrangements for our long depar

ture.
Trusting all shall be ready by then.

Lady A.

Yes, dear, I shall see after all things ;
You must not worry, put yourself about.
Marvettia and myself shall attend to all.
Seeing that everything be done up properly.

Sir A.

I know you shall, my good wife.
Having trusted you all my long life.

Millions for Her. 189

We part now with a fond kiss,
And seal our affection, love, this.

Exit Sir Allfiston, enter Marvkttia.
Lady .1.

Marvettia, Marvettia, papa lias just trone away

To settle his affairs with his directors.

He wants us to get ready soon;

He'll return in three days from now.

And our maids he will us allow

To be with us to attend and assist us.

Marvettia.
O mamma, mamma, papa I shall kiss
And take away sorrow for his loss,
Also help him to bear the cross.
Although he teases me about my dresses
For love's sake I'll give him caresses
And I'll make such a strong endeavoi'
To show him my veiy best behaviour
And treat him as I would my Saviour.

Lady A.
Your papa spoiled you, my dear Marvettia,
Giving you e very thin i( your fancy desired
Rich presents he gives you all superfine,
Purchased abroad from the most wealthy buyeis.
Yes, your papa you ought to respect,
For what he has done for you, darling ;
Your duty to him, () never neglect ;
Marvettia, take my advice as a warning.

Marvettia.
Mauuna, were you ever in Paris before;
Will you relate to me your experience there ?

!ti

190 Millions for Her.

Lady A. Yes, Marvettia, I visite>d Paris before
you were horn. Siiice then that great city has un-
doubtedly made f^reat advances in Art and Science
that will astonish y(»u and me more than anything
we behold here in London, where you spent all your
youthful years.

Marvi:ttia. I am so satistied at having this oppor-
tunity to visit Paris, for in my school days my tutor
related to me the brilliant achievements the French-
I men accomplished in art, science and in war. hur-

}'■ ing our stay in such an attractive city it will be my

greatest pleasure and consolation to examine the most
elegant in art, and the greatest in science, by the
brilliant masters of the past and present.

Lady Allfiston. I am also contented returning
; to Paris on the account of the pleasure, rest and re-

tirement of your father, which he will enjoy while
we remain there. T have several friends in Paris
! who will be delighted at our coming — theii* acquaint-

i ance and companionship you will exceedingly.^ delight

in. I remember how they interested themselves to

my advantage. Their resources of amusements were

j abundant to satisfy all my curiosity with perfect

satisfaction. You will tind them trustwortliy, also

I obliging, far more so than our friends here in Lou

don. Now, Marvettia, we must depai-t to ai range

; our outfit, so that nothing may be wanting to cause

II us delay at our departure.

END OF SCENE III. — ACT I. — Exit.

. il\ :S*5

Millions for Her.

191

ACT II.

SoKNE I.- A baggage and waiting room. Enter Lady

AUjiston, Joint Donetia and Archer.

(lUatdi (di arranging Baggage).

Lady Allfiston,
John Donetia, you must get these caids
Tacked on the Iwiggage ; hi'ing the (h'aynian
To take them diiectly to the station ;
Be sure get them then; on time. Exit Lady A.

Dehokia.
John, Miss Marvettia's trunks are readv now.

John.
I sliall attend to them, Miss Deboria.

EviiLEEN.

John, be sure to tell the di'ayman

To handle Miss Marvettia's trunks very carefully.

Archki{.
You oblige me, ladies, by keeping (}uiet,
Because too much ordering makes one stupid;
John shall nail them on the trunks.

EVELEEN.

Now our work is neaily all completed,

Come away and we shall get i-eady.

Sir AllHston has arrived one hour ago.

He's in the drawing-room with his family.

They are preparing for their long journey.

The porter has gone to the stables

To sunnnon the coachman and brinji carriatre.

Deboria.
Won't we all have a glorious time ?
Eveleen, don't Miss Marvettia just look superb ?

192 Millions for Her.

She shall capture all the younp; gentlemen
On the Continent, when on her tour.
I'd like to cut a dash myself,
Would you not like to yourself, Eveleen ?

EVELEEN.

No, Deboria dear, have no desire indeed;
I'm just plain Eveleen, a simple maid.

Deboria.

You won't be long a simple maid
By what Mr. Archer to me said.

Eveleen.

Now Deboria, you ai-e always teasing me

About Mr. Archer ; what about your John Donetia 1

Having seen him looking at you often.

When your color changed like the rainbow,

Methought that a dart had struck you.

Still Donetia smiled and chatted with you,

Put his arms around and kissed you.

Deboria.
You are teasing me now, Eveleen dear.
We shall call it quits for both ;
Maybe both of us shall marry soon
When we return to our home again.

Eveleen.

I'll be able to tell you better

When we shall return home here later,

Why, Deboria, the dray is already waiting.

Deboria.
I am ready now, so oom« away quick.

Exit. Enters again.

[ ?

Ifi

I I'

Millions for Hkr.

193

Ahciikr,
Jolin, hfive you tho baggage all ready ;
The cards tacked on each one's trunk ?

John.
Yes, sir, tacked tliem all on good ;
Come and see them arranged in order.

Archer.
Why, John, you have put the cards
All on one box, you stupid fellow ;
Come, come, take tiiem oflF at once.
I told you one each trunk,
And then do such an ignorant trick.

John.
I thought one trunk was quite sufficient.

Archer.
You thought nonsense; that shall never do,
You must be more expert at work ;
You shall get us all into trouble ;
Giving you, John, this very last warning.
Expecting you to do better in future.

John.

Beg your pardon, shall do better again ;
Thought putting them on one less work ;
I'll be somewhat sharper and try hereafter
To do my work in a proper manner.

Archer.
Come now, take them to the station ;
The drayman is waiting at the door ;
They ought to be there long before. Exit Archer.
John. No matter how earnestly I do transact
business, this crazy Archer is continually finding fault,
13

I()4 MllJ-lONS l-'OU 1 1 Kit.

jilthoui,'li t lying to givt- liim sfitisf.iction he will still

llHVO SOIIK* (»l)|('(.'ti<»M.

Dkiiohia. I would not, try to satisfy him, he's only
a boy, we all know that. He iIna^•iues ub iMMiealh
his dignity. Wo know that our knowh'dgi; is superior
to his.

EvKLERN. Aicher knows perfectly well his busi-
ness. If ho. did not, Sir AlUistcm would not have had
him in his service. He was obliging always on every
occasion. I cannot listen to you and John continual-
ly criticising and disrespecting him. You ought to
liave more common sense.

Deboria. O he respects you better than us; that
is wliy you take his part, knowing he has a liking for
you, and you yet may be his darling wife.

EvELEEN. Well, that is none of your business,
you are crazy yourself about John 1 have no doubt
you will be his wife when you return home to Eng-
land.

John. Now girls, do not lose your heads, it is all
a mattej- of jealousy between you. You are con-
tinually falling out and in with one another and very
intimate with each other at times. I desire hereafter
that you remain agreeable. It will be more satisfy-
ing to us when we arrive in Paris. Now we have
just time to prepare at once to proceed to Dover to
catch the Merchant I.ine steamer that starts to-
morrow morning at seven o'clock.
Iij: Exit all.

END OF SCENE I — ACT II.

ffi

Millions fok Heu.

195

IScRNK l[ — A siitiity room in AfdrHt'illts llotil. En-
ter Detective, ami Archer, Erelem and Dehoria.

Dktkctivk.

Mr. Arolior, liow are you ? Just un'ivod.
You know svluit business brings ni(i here.
Believing the Inirglfir is in my powei',
Having him when; theie is no escape.
Tiiis pietui'e or the photograph you took
That night at th(; Grange, if you
Saw him could you recognize him ?

AliCIIER.

Yes, I believe, seeing him I could tell.

I went to take a moonlight view

For Sir Alltiston of the Grange.

Setting up my camera to be ready

When the moon shone a clear litrht,

Was so surprised seeing a man's picture.

Then turning round, looking in the direction

Of the Grange, saw him going away

In the very opposite direction from me.

Next morning, reading the account of it

In the Daily Times, was greatly astonished.

And went immediately to examines my view,

And again found it like the man.

You were sent to me for information.

Here's a copy of the first view. {Hands copij).

Detective.
Yes, here's the one you gave me;
We will both examine this very carefully.
What do you think of the comparison ?
They are the same in my estimation.

196

Millions kou 11 kr.

II ta

[i.'iii ,1

1'^

i' HI':]

If that's tlie case, lif's your man.
The (luiokcr lio's uiulor lock and key
Will l)e better for you and me.

1)ktk(;tivk.
Yos, Ai'cher, that's the clmnco I see,
To put him under lock and key.
Understanding Sir Allliston is leading him away,
Not knowing lie's the man we'i-e after.
He thinks he's the most suitable man
To look after for his beautiful daughter.
We must innnediat(!ly stop his -^illy delusion.
Show him the man \iv now favors,
The very man who robbed his bank.
Proof, that shall bi-ing us out victorious,
Then Lord Mordant won't be so glorious. Exit l>oth
Enter Evklekx and Dkmouia.

EVELKKN.

oh Deboria, Paris my idol, pleasant city.

Her refining art so loved and treasured ;

Our London is no comparison to this.

Look at her art galleries, pl(>asure halls,

Her perfect streets, and many grand boulevards ;

Her long wide avenues and shady pai-ks,

A paradise to live and dream in.

Dehgria.
You are turning quite a poetess.
Think of our London none the less,
Our own beloved city, our home,
While through this fair land we roam.
Eveleen, have you seen the new arrivals ?

^Millions kok lltu.

197

They JU'o \a)v\ ^[nI•(l;llll and his secretary,
Whose name is the Honorable Mr. l»os\vell.
They have made acciuaiiilance with the AllHstons.
The vah;t said they were sintijlo ffeiitlemcn,
Very smart looking, and decidedly very haiidsoiiK!.

EVKLKKN.

Thoy are away above our standard, Deljoria;
We could nevei' hv their 0(]uals, you know ;
Miss Marvettia, thouj[,'h, can have her pick,
And perhai)s you can have the other.
T can choose between Arclier and Donetia.

Dkmohia.
Eveleen, we cannot tarry here any lon,i,'e»-,
The guests are her<! to wait upon ;
Along with Sir AlKiston, wife and daughter.
Listen, they are coming, hear their laugiiter.
Let us watch jNIiss Marvettia very attentively.
To see which one she admires most.
Here comes the valet, leading Sir Alltiston,
And Loi'd ]Mor(hint leading Miss Marvettia,
The Honorable Mr. Boswell leading gently Lady All-
tiston,
Come, we must follow, to be on hand. Exit all.

END OF ACT II. SCEN^: II.

Scene III. — A hanqnelting haU. Enter Sir All-

FiSTON, Loud ^Mordant, Boswell, the guests

and mnii/s.

Sir Af-lfiston.

Ladies and g(Mitlemen, be you all seatetl
And take of my hospitality, if you please.

198

Millions for Her.

Bo not 1 Kick ward, be all at your ease.

There is nothing like comfort, 'tis written.

( Valet rivgs hell. Enter mavis with rcfreshuients, etc.)

Tlien ,u;ive thanks when you have eaten.

T take the liberty of asking our gues-ts

Foi- sjK'ech or song, it's my request.

Gentlemen, when we met we were strangers ;

Our friendship with you will now exchange.

We welcome you luM-e heartily with us,

To join us at our pleasure-meeting recess,

Where we enjoy ourselves without excess,

Giving song, speecli of your own selection.

Loud Mordant.
8ir AllHston, we appreciate your kind reception.
And taking of yours have no objection ;
Thinking it an honor, being your friend,
My Secretary to you his thanks extend.
So thanking you I'll take my seat,
And wish again like this we mi 3t.

BOSWELL.

La(li(!s and gentlemen, I'm no speechmaker;

I do believe I understand the matter.

Meeting an honorable gentleman like Sir Alltiston,

Also his family who gives us respect,

Meeting again, here or any part of France,

We are so delighted at our meeting

With such hospitable people as you are.

Our business takes us too soon away.

I am sure Lord Mordant is delighted

With the reception you have given us ;

Wish you good health and many pleasures

Millions for Hf:r.

199

Until we all moot ; (lear fi'iomls, at^fiiu
For the present we bid you adieu.

Sill Allfiston. (lentlenien, T am exceedingly sorry
that you have to leave us instantaneously. However,
l)usin<;ss is business, and we must not detain you any
longer heie. Uut this meeting, although broken up
abruptly, we part now as good friends, with the pros-
pect of meeting again some time in the future, when
you and us will meet, perhaps not here, but in an-
other land. You are departing now to Paris and
France, whei'e Lady Allfiston, Miss AUfiston and my-
self shall journey in a short time, when I leave my
business here in order, in charge of my manager
until I return from France,

Loud Mordant. 8ir AUfiston, it shall be to my
secretary and myself a great pleasure to meet you
and your family in Paris when you arrive there.
Now we bid you all farewell.

BoswHLL. T would like also bef(n-e departing from
the present company, where we have such good cheer,
to pay my respects to Lady AUfiston and Miss AU-
fiston, who treated me so kindly. 1 would part from
here with sorrow, if I had not the prospect of meet-
ing your kind lady and lovely daughter again in
Paris. This is my fond wish and desire, as we are
now j)arting from each other. Now Ave bid you all
a short farewell, hoping you shall have a fair and
pleasant voyage when you proceed to Paris. So, kind

friends, we part.

Exit.

KND OK SCENK IIL

200

]\IiLLioNs FOR Her.

It »,

Scene IV. — Lndies^ roaiting-rooin. Enter mauh^
etc. Enter Mauvettia, Eveleen, Debohia,
Archer and Detf:ctive.

Dehoria.

Evoleen, what think you of tho guests 1
Their behaviour was admirable, was it not ?
Which of the two was tlie handsomest ?

Eveleen.

I think the Honorable Mr. Boswell was

Indeed the most handsome of the two.

Did you see how Miss Marvettia kept

Her watchful eyes continually looking upon him,

And he the very same with her 1

Deboria.

Mr. Boswell was more in her company.
For I heard them both in conversation ;
She appeared interested by what he said.
Eveleen, there may be something happen yet.
I hope ^Vlllistons will have no trouble.
(Miss Marvettia Allfiston rushing in).

Marvettia.

Maids, please fan me, I'm very warm
Exerting myself with so much entertaining
Those two brilliant gentlemen you waited on.
Which one do you think the most handsome 1

Deboria.
My liking might not bo like yours

jNLarvettia.
Well, tell me which you like best 1

Millions for Her.

Debokia.

Well, if I liad the choico of one,

He with the dimple on his cheek ;

He's so lovely, and very sweet.

iVliss Marvettia, he continually locked at you.

I'm not, indeed, joking, 'tis pei-fectly true.

EVELEEN.

Do not listen to her, Miss Marvettia,
For she is no judge of men.

.MaHVET'JIA.

Well, Evt'leen, let nu; have your opinion.

EvELEEN.

Lord ]Mordant is handsome and well })red,

And I know also he's well read.

He has no dimple on his cheek,

But he's got such a lovely complexion,

And for me he has a great attraction.

201

Marvettia.

! you old maids,

what different ideas

x\ll about thohe ugly looking old bachelors.

Still, I think muc

1 of Mr. Bos well ;

Miii'ht love him, one can never tell.

Now, ]\[aid Dehor

ia, we must both retire

To my apartment.

I'm very tired.
Demoiua.

Miss ^Marvettia, I

shall attend to you.
Marvkttia.

Eveleen, good-night ; tell Manuna I've retired.

{E.idt a

H. Enter Eveleex and

Archer).

, ..

202

Millions for Hhu.

^^H

IB
1

iHHI

■4 !

.'■i^H

■ <

f ;
1

EVKLEKN.

She is struck on that Mr. I>()s\v(>il,

And he Lord IVIorchint's poor, worthh'ss SeciTtury,

(), she will bi'oak her iatluir's heart,

Knowing he would prefer F.ord M(»rdanfc

For his daughter and soa-in-law.

If she likes may continue her llii-ting

With that poor seci'etary of his lordship.

I woukl like to advise her now,

She woukl rage and raise her brow.

Archer.
Eveleen, are you here by yourself?

EVELEEN.

Yes, 1 was waiting for you.

Archer.

! darling, we shall soon be happy.

1 have news to tell you, petty.

Eveleen.

Come tell me now, make me merry,
I shall love you in a hurry.

Archer.

Sir Allfiston thanked me for the view
Of his old homestead at the Grange.
Said I would soon be rewarded well,
Some day, but now he cannot tell.
Then we two shall both be one,
And I'll love you all T can.
We shall then wait/ round the world.
Now in this fashion you I'll whirl.

Millions for Her.

203

EVELEEN.

Now T love you worse than ever.

Alien EH.
Tlien our lives sluill never, never sever.
Come, Eveleen, we'll now retire ivom here.
I have an appointment somewhere near,
To meet me on private business here.

Eveleen.
You met me here on private business,
No one else need take my place,
Unless a man is in the case.

Archer.
Be not jealous, for 'tis a man.
He comes my welfare for to plan.
(She retires. He remains.) (A'/i/c/- Detective)

Archer.
Now should he succeed, my fortune's made.
He's the man, there is no doubt.
Sir, T was just expecting you here,
You have arrived in time so near.

Detective.
Why, dear boy, success is the result
Though never was a clue more difficult
To unravel than this we are following.
The scoundrel we shall soon be holding.

Archer.

Now, sir, your are speaking the ti-utli,

He was a villain from his youth.

Did you hear what Sir Allfiston said ?

My picture of the Grange was superfine.

For which I'll be rewarded some time.

204

Mh.mons for Hku.

li-i

1 ;

i- :i

<!■.

Dktkctive.
That's wlioii I get hold of him
H(^'ll think he wa • in a dream.

Ahciiku.
You are satisticd he's the rii^lit man ?

Dktkctivk.
Yes, when T finishc^d out my plan
I expect Boswf^ll will be here to-morrow,
If so, it nuiy be t;0 his sorrow,
He received a letter from Miss Marvettia
To 1)6 sure and be here to-niglit.
You keep this meetin*:^ place in sight.
Arrange a phice where I can watch,
Tf necessary, where I can him catch,
Or at least hear all their conversation.

AuciiEii.
T can arrange for such an occasion.
Also advise you of such a location
Where you can take your station.

Detectivk.
Then I shall rely upon your word,
If it's true what I've heard.
It shall be proof to rae declared ;
You and I shall have the victory.
Though it be done by 'cute trickery,
We part now to meet, if spared.
To tell the news I have heard ;
You to your part, me to mine.
The news I receive will be thine.

END OF ACT II. — SCENE IV.

Exit.

Millions fou He'i. 205

ACT 111.

Scene T. — A j)rir<ife sifting room m hotiL {Enter |

Mahvettia (i,n1 Hon. Mh. Boswell, Arc.ieu and I

Detective. )

MAHVpyiTlA. j

Be you comfortably seated, Mr. Boswell, please. |

Boswell.
Thank you. Miss :\[arvettia, T like ease,
For I have travelled here some distance
Since I made your very kind ac(iuaintance
To get from you the promise given.

jNLarvettia.
That promise I shall now you answer,
I accept you as my husband true.
Believing in straightforward open explanation.
You gave me of your past situation.
I have told my father all about it ;

He said you were a gentleman complete,

Giving him the stolen money back again.

Boswell.

Seeing you first, I thought to make plain

Confession to you of all my misfortune,

You accepted them with very kind emotion ;

You have made me a bettor man,

A nobler life with you I'll plan ;

I know, there shall be an enemy

Who shall try to hound us both,

Come what will, I'll meet him fair.

Mahvettia.

And I to him shall be square.

206

Millions fou Uvm.

P.OSWKLL.

I slmll settle my accounts vvitli him.

iMAIiVKiriA.

I slijill ever love und adore him.

BOSWELL.

No, not till all my trouble's settled,
His evil hahit shall not disgrace you.

Marvettia.
Our wedding day shall not please him?

BoSWELL.

No, dai'ling, he tried to disgrace me,
Also your good name and spotless purity,
Which is to you your best security

Maiivettia.
Then succeed or not, I'll be true
To one who dares enemies for me.

BoswELL.
Now, for a while we must depart,
You, dear love, to your mother's heart ;
I, to unloosen the tangle, if possible.
Binding me from my own dear one.
Believing that I shall be very successful.
You, my darling, never to be regretful.
Then, ^ove, a kiss before I start.
My own true love, my own sweetheart.

Marvettia.
Take it then, with all my heart,
Don't you hear it move and start.

Uxit all. Enter Arcfer a7id Detective.

imk

Mn,LF()Ns von Her.

AlKITKn.

Well, liuve you received tlir full infoiiii.ilion

Tluit we butli cxiHM-t for our foiisuUation ',

I)ktk(;ti ,;.

Yes, T assure you, it is settled ;

She shall marry hiui, and h(^ her.

It isciuite true, by .love 1 sir,

When he gets rid of his enemy.

AnruEU.

Pray, tell me who is his enemy ?

Dktkctivk.

'Twas he, I believe, helped Lord Mordant,

That bright, moonlight night at the Grange.

He confessed it all, Archer, 'tis strange ;

Paid her father back the stolen money.

The old gentleman has thought it honorable.
And shall never forget his honest acti(m.

Ahciiku.
He was expecting Lord Mordant to-day.
He has got warning to keep away.
And shall not appear here as expected.
For he believes he shall be rejected.

DlVrKCTIVK.

I must away and catch my bird ;
If he comes here send me word.

•207

END OF ACT III. — SCENE I.

Scene II.— ^ private sittiny-rooni in hotel
Lord Mordant and Detective.
Mordant.
Well, has he exploded the whole affair '<

Exit all.
Enters

208

Millions for IIkk.

P''

Hifi

Detrctivp:.

Sir Allfisto!! has boon of it I'lware ;
You're in groat danger of being arrostcd.
My order was to arrest you innnediatoly,
Now T must proceed to duty expeditiously ;
] must take you now to the station,
Though you may be someone's big reflation.

Mordant.
You remember what T promised you
To act on my behalf, twenty thousand.

Detective.
Be a gentleman and pay me now,
And I'll let you go, T vow.

Mordant.
Assist me, then, nmch furthei-, will you ?

Detective.
State your case to me, I'll answer.

M0l{DANT.

Can you bring Miss Marvettia to me ?
To a private place, I'll tell thee.
And the twenty thousand you shall have ;
You can then do what you desire ;
Perhaps, 3'our service I may yet require.

Detective.
Your wish by me shall be fulfilled.

Mordant.
Biing her to this street and number,
And the money you get, you'll wonder ;
Let me know the time for action,
Tell no one of this our transaction ;

Mii.MoNs K()i{ Hkii. 200

SoiiH! futui'(! tiuio you sliiill hr rc^vvanlt-d,
And by iiic you sliiill ln' rt'j^urdiul.

Dktkctivk.
Tlioui,di iiii^lit b(> d;irk, cold tlif stonii,
My duty I slijill fi\vfi\ to pi'it'oiiu

//'' (/lies uikI hriihjx Itt'.r to hnu.
lletuiTied, TiOid Mordant, T liavn with her.

Exit Dktkctivk.

MoKDANT.

Mis;s Mai'vetlia, T lliaidc you for coniini,',
As my business with y»tu is important.

MAIiVKTI'IA.

Well, L(»rd Mordant, what, is your business?

M on DA NT.
T hav<? gone and roblu'd your father ;
1 repent, askinfj hint to grant pardon,
Aceopt baek my share of the plunder ;
T would not ever hav(> done it-
It was to sa\e Mr. iJoswell's life.

Mai!V I'/niA.
What for, did yon save his life?

MolU)ANT.

He was a perfect stranger to me,
Fimling him in a very trying position --
In the act of taking his own life —
I persuaded him not to do it,
Believing his past lif(^ c uld b(! redeiMued ;
He asked me how, I answered liim :
By becoming my true friend and partner.
lie said he would do almost anything
To be relieved of his wretched life.
14

210

Millions fou Hb;u.

11 ^ ill

\V(! had IK) means, eitlici* of us,

So to stop liiiu from committiiij; suicido

T propos(!(l wo should rob a i)aiik ;

Also, with the iutenlioii of coming hrn?

And iiiv('stin<,' all thu money w(! procured

Tn h'<,dtin»at(! business to repay Sir AlUiston

Therefore, w(; have succeeded Ijeyond our expectation

My desire sendin*,' after you, Miss Marvetlia,

To give this money to your father,

To pay hack the amount I stole.

Also, this small key that opened the vault,

Having found it in my father's pocket,

When he was lying sick unto death.

He was your father's old private secretary.

Miss Marvettia, I liave recorded to you,

All that happened to the pi-esent time ;

]\[iss Marvettia, with you T hsave it,

To plead for me to your father,

I ask for his forgiveness and his pai-don.

Marvettia.
Lord Mordant, 1 do what you desire,
Really this is all a romance,
Meeting us here and making our ac(iuaintance,
After robbing us in London, our home,
Then investing our money in legitimate business,
And you doubled it in one year ;
No wonder, father is so very rich.
If he, too, doubles all his millions,
Then he must be a nndti-millionaire,
And me, his only daughter, his heir.
Now, Lord Mordant, this is really a ronumce,
Indeed, to me of very great importance,

Millions iok IIku.

211

Now r must; njo to my futlim-,

And stfitn your Ci-isc to his i'tuinscl ;

T sliall listen t(» wliat Ik; says,

Also l)e your tiuc (ulvocutc li('t'<ii(' liiiii ;

If T aiM successful ill ^'cttiii;^ your pardon,

What fot) shall )ou to inc pay,

All ihf advocates arc paid, they siy ?

Mordant.

I'm (juiti! williiiif to pay, Miss Marvcttia,
lUil you must send in youi' acc(»uut.

MAItVKTTIA.

If I succeed ill yeltin;^ your pardon,
1 will come to ydu and hit you know ;
Tf defeated, would advise you to i^o.

Mordant.
Where would you Nvant me to <^o .'

Marvkttia.
To liiul for yourself a -^ood wif«^,
Who can keep you away from misuhief.

!M OKI) a NT.
Don't know \\ lieri? to if>- foe one,
Uidess you, youj'self, take pity on me.
And be the one to guide me.

Marvkttia.
I'm bespokcid for already by your friend
Who proposeil to me, and 1 acc(>pted.

Mordant.
Then you ar(,' e\er lost to )ne ?

Marvettia.
Not, if you had told your story lirst ;

•212

Millions for Her.

'Twas tliat nuuh my hoart take pity
For liis many sad misfurtuiies you know.

INIOUDANT.

() ! thai I could have you though.

IMaijvettia.
A woman cannot have two liusbands living,
Otherwise T would be most willing.
He's looking for you for a duel ;
He's expert with tho swords, they say,
And his guard cannot be touched.
Would you dare face such an antagonist 1

Mordant.
Yes, for such a woman as ycm
T could stand before a dozen such.

Marvettia.
Then you shall have youi' first chance ;
Tf you be successful I'll marry you.

Mordant.

Then I'll keep you to your word,
And should I receive a fatal blow
The act shall show I loved you, O !

Marvettia.

Tf your partner win T"ll mairy him.
S.i, Lord AFordant, F wish you well
To live long this romance to tell.

]Mordant.
Goodbye, Marvet,tia, a slu^rt farewell !
Die for you,, if not to dwell.

E.i'it all.

END OF SCENE II. — ACT III.

Millions for Heu.

213

i^CENElU.— Sir AUfiston's sitliti(/roo)>i in wansion.
{Enter SiH Ai-lfiston and Miss Mai!\ kttia.)

Marvettia.

Father, I have a case to plead.

It is about Lord Mordant's robbing case :

He has given me the stoU'ii money,

Asking me to plead for his pardon,

Explaining to me how he did it.

It was to save his partner's life ;

Accidentally he saw him ending his life,

He obstructed him from counnitting the crim<>

By promising to show him the way out

Of all his difficulties, and become refornuMl,

Be a wealthy and very successful man,

That took immediately away his cra/y spell ;

Here you receive all your money back,

So do not take proceedings against him.

Sir Allfiston.
I have no desire to do so, Marvettia,
Knowing he is my old secretary's sun.
Also a distant relation of my own.
Yes, his father bought him a commission
On soina with his regiment to Africa,
Whereby his brave, heroic skill in action
He won honors, was distinguished for bravery.
Again returned to England, received a title
He then travelled all round the world.
I lost all further accounts of him
Also, believing he ."-pent his father's fortune.
Returning here to his old home penniless,
Not wishing to be recognized by friends

214

Millions for Heh.

-■

■'

. 1 '
: ( ■ ■

T ■

t- '

'* i "

After moetinii; this outcast in tin's plac

\\'li(M(( ho found him just like himsc^lf.

Tired of life, then planned the loiihcry

And fortune h'ls now found them iMilh.

I nnist know his father's linancial standing',

Also find out whei-c; his wealth \\ent.

It may he kept in trust for him.

His father heing director of trusts comjinny.

Notilied of his father's death in Africa,

Knowing his father lavished wealth on him,

Thought there was nothing left for him.

However, I shall investigate his legitimate rights

To any inhei'itance his father left him.

Now, my loving daughter, it's for you

To try to interest this Lord Mordant ;

If you like him, win his aifection.

Mauvhti'ia.

Fath(M-, 1 have just done that alr(\ady.

Sii{ Allfistox.
You nmst have been in his company
More times than I have been awaie?

Marvettia.
Father, he has already proposed to me.
Told him of my engagement to Doswell
Then he said my secretary, my rival.
For yourself he is now my enemy
I challenge him, give choice of weapons
To decide this question of nuitter, money
Between us, you, him and myself.

Sin Allfiston.
Let them .settle it in their way.

( ,:

^,!

Millions for Her.

215

Ono woiYian can only marry ono man.
You wero docoivod yourself hy tlioni both.
Let theju light it out between themselves,
It is none of your doing, daughter,
If they kill themselves it's no matter.
It is now time that we retired ;
Come to me when all is settled,
When y<m have won your one desire
The veiy fervent wish you did require,
Getting him whom you can never trust ;

Keep cool, don't let yourself get fluttered.

]\[ARVpyrTiA.

No, papa, naught but truth I've uttered

About those two brave gallants fighting together

To se«^ who conquers one another.

Papa, we'll retire, the hour is late,

I'll wait patiently to know my fate.

Sir Allfiston.

Peace and happiness be with you then.

If it be your loss or gain

Take not to heart and suffer pain.

You are still my daughter, I'm able

To share with you my bounteous table.

Exit ulL

KND OF SCENK III. ACT III.

'ill

SCKNR IV.— yl aUtlnfi-room in tJie Mniseilles Hotel.
Enter Akchkr, Drisoria and Kveleen.

AllCIIEU.

Sir Allfiston has just informed me
That we .shall be returning to England

21G MiLiJONs FOR Her.

To be .'ill liomc^ before Christinas time ;
We liav(> two weeks to niak(i preparations
Therefore, must pn^pai-e for ou!' return journey.

DliUOUIA

() ! liow d(;H<«litful to get back home
Again, to the Grange in the hollow,
Kevered by the family threescore years.

EVELEEN

Deboria, you are so delighted returning home

I am the very opposite to you ;

Here, in Paris, I could live ever ;

Pleasant, glorious city, full of historic romances.

! I'll live here, take my chances ;

Archer shall remain here with me too,

This grand, imperial city to always review.

Dehoria.
You stay as long as you choose,
Staying here would give me tlie blues.
John Donetia shall come home witli me
Then man and wife we shall be,
We will not eat squash and sardines.
But good I'oast beef, pork and b(!ans.
( )n this old English food we'll thrive ;
Alone with each other long we'll strive.
Leave you here among the Paris crowd
Shaking your tail like a peacock proud.

EvELEEN.

Deboria, you will never stop teasing me,
So)n(itime I'll come to London maybe,
But not to come and see you.
Because you were never friendly to me.

Millions for Heu. 217

Dehoria.
Eveleen, O don't now at me pout ;
If I have put you greatly about
I'll heg your humble pardon ; yes, indeed,
Ever after this to you I'll take heed.

Eveleen.
Then Deboria, I'll forgive you altogether
And we'll always love again one another.
Deboria, did you hear the latest news ?
That Lord Mordant and Boswell, his secretary,
Are both infatuated with dear Miss AUHston ;
They are going to have a duel
To decide which of them have her.
Lord Mordant is related to her father.
Sir Alltiston thinks Lord Mordant very wealthy
And that he don't know it himself

Deboria.
How strange, the way wonders will come,
She loved his secretary, he did her.
But now his master she does prefer.
No doubt they'd make a lietter pair.
And Boswell will hereafter be nowhere.

E.vit Archer — Eiifer John Donetia.

John.

O ! Deboria, give me something to drink,
For I am fainting and very weak ;
Arrested for laughing at a Frenchman.
Let us get home from here, Deljoria ;
There, forever, hereafter we both reman ;
Bad luck to France I'll say again,
They treated you and I with disdain,

;ii

218 Millions for [Ikr.

Ho here wo will no loiiLiftM' roniiiin ;
l)o})f)ri;i, we have all hccii woithmI hero,
Mayho much iimro ahusod, dospisod T foar.

DliltOllIA.

Sir Allfiston, wifo and daii^'htor will roturii
In two wo(^k.s' time hack to London ;
We must live in France till then,
Then i-o Ijack to London with them.

Joiix.
Deboria, when did you see Archer last ?
He's all the time with his Ev^cleon ;
Not for liumau creatures for to see,
Nor as happy as you and me ;
No, or hereafter will they ever be.

Enter Archer.

Archkr.
John Donetia, we are going to London,
I'm sure you will have no objection?

John.
No, foi- here I cannot get protection,
Those cursed French don't understand our language
Why should we stay so long among
These Fi'ench wretch(\s, we abominably abhor ;
Now to London, leave this Frenchy shore.

Ai{criER.
We all don't dislike this beautiful Paris,
Witli its fountains clear and silvery terrace ;
You wen? only wandering through the slums.
Where gather nightly all Paris' beastly bums.
John, when to Paris you come again,
French at home you then must learn.

lU*

Millions foii TTeh.

TIkmi yon will lik<^ tlic Kroiu-liinon lu'ttcf,
And hccDiii" l'''r('n(li yourself, sooiiff or later,
And iirvcr to London i^o l)!ifk aiffiin ;
Dclxiri.M, with you too, must there remain.

E.rlt all.

KXI) OF ACT III. SCKVI': IV.

219

ACT IV.

ScEXE I. — A ilraii-'inii-rooni in Marso.Wc!^ [fotel.
ter Lad\ Allfistox aii'I Mahh Ma!{Vi:ttia.
Lady Allfiston.
Marvettia, he seate I, and sit heside me,
You have a brother you nevei- saw ;
He wput away as a cabin, boy,
On Her Majesty's wai'ship the " Algerian,"
Which sailed away from London to <iibraltar;
She became a total wreck, was lost,
Some survived, came back again to London.
We heard nothing more of your brother,
Who nnist have b^en drowned, poor boy.
On you, Marvettia, falls your fathei-'s fortune,
And if Lord Mordasit his antagonist defeats.
He'll be your husband, there's no doubt ;
Your papa believes Lord Mordant is rich.
He's gone away to the Trust Company
To examine there Lord Mordant's fathei's will.
Where he placed it before he died,
T am expecting him to return soon
With the news, then we shall know.

Makvkttia,
Should Boswell kill Loid Mordant, what then?

220 Millions for Heil

Lady Allfiston.
Tlicii it would 1)(' MO iH'tter for you.

Makvkttja.
BoswoU may be; just as well off?

Lady Allfiston.
No lie's not, only an unknown stranfj;('r,

Marvi<:ttia.
Yes, but he's a splendid financier ;
When he gave back his stolen money
He told me that he doubled it.
Yes, mannna, he shall soon be rich,
And 1 like him just as well ;
If lie succeeds in det'oatiiii' Loi-d Mordant,
Why, mamma, F shall indeed marry him.

Lady Allfiston.
Then let them decide their own fate,
As they both decidedly persist to fight ;
And let them both kill themselves.
You have still your father and mother
To look after and support you ever.
Enter Sir Allfiston. Marvettia runs to meet him.

Marvettia.
O, papa, papa, how did you succeed ?

Lady Allfiston.
Child, give your father time to answer.

Sir Allfiston.
I am not the only millionaire now,
Lord Mordant owns an estate worth millions ;
He does not know anvthiui' about it,
I found out he's the only heir.
When he dies the Crown gets all.

Millions for Hkh- 221

Mahvi:ttia.
O! if BosNVull kill liim, then svin;
T shall lose all his j,'feat wealth?

Sir Ali-fisto\.
Daughter, if you lose one, there's aiiother.

Mahvkt'I'ia.
I wouUl prefer Mordant, he's a niillioiiaire.

SiK Allfiston.
I have no doubt you're like (.urselves
In that respect, for money always tells
How can we stop this foolish duel ?
I don't understand the necessity for it,
Two friends wanting to kill each othei',
And it's all for a millionaire's daughter.
Mr. Boswell, I know, has no means,
And Lord xMordant don't know his wealth ;
Their love for you is only s(;ltish.
If he knew his own gnvat wealth,
Mai'vettia, just now lu'fori! \w married he,
I don't believe he would think of thee,
Or with Mr. Boswell light a deadly duel.
When appearing on the scene of combat
I shall have the officers of Law
On the spot ready to arrest them ;
When we have them arrested, y<m decide
Telling Lord Mordant you are his bridi;.
Boswell shall be taken away to jail.
Keep him there until he gets bail ;
Then, after this affiiir is all over,
We'll go back to London by Dover,
Where you, Marvettia, shall become Lady Mordajit

-^.

222 Millions i-ok IIkh.

Tlicn nothiii^f more from mo you'll want.
Tuinoriow be at the «ceao of coinbjit,
lleceive y<»ur husband, whoever lie \h' ;
I'll bo there to prevent the combat,
.Vrrest one of the party you'll see,
IMarvettia, the othei- shall be your husband ;
When Lord Moi'dant names your wedding day,
The ceremony shall be i»ert'ormed in Lond(»n ;
Spend your honeymoon where you choose.
Your mother, with tlu! maids and servants.
Shall imniediatelv return ajjain to the GranL'e.

^Iawvettia.
Father, no more worry ; all is o\er.
When leaving Paris to go to J)over
I won't forget the place of combat ;
And what you said, think of that.
Now we go to mak(^ our preparations,
Each of us to our special stations.

Sii} AiJ.i'isiON.
Your behavioi' there shall on yourself defjcnd,
If you're successful thai is the end.

£.rif all.
KXO OF SCliXE I. — ACr JV.

ScEXK IT. The areyui of baffle. } aier Lord Mor-
dant ami liU aulaijoukt, vlfli. seconds.

1st Secono.
Is your man now ready ?

2nd Si;('oM).
Yes, niy man is ready.

77ai :<e(:ouiJ.'^ hand fhfju fhdr sicurds.
[At the command of referee they begin fighting, con-

.kiyv

Millions mii Heu.

223

tinuiii<^ until the law otlicers st<»p thorn. An
olVicor advaiu-t's l)otw«!C'ii them with a (h-awu
HW()i-(l and says : " l^y the hiw of iM-ancu 1 stop
you horn further tij^rhtin;,'." The combatants
soi»ai-ate, tlic otliccr calls out nanu!? and profes-
sions. I

Officku.

What is your name, .•uid present jX'ofession ?

LoKI) .Mol!l>.\NI'.

My name is Lord Mordant; profession, genthnian.

Ol'FU'Klf.

What is your nanu; and present profession ?

IJoSWKI-l,.

My name is Timothy P.oswell ; profession, gentleman.

Offickk.
Gentlemen, you must at once withdraw swords
And depart in peace from hen; now.

Ijoim) Mordant.
Not until we Imth have our s.itisfactioii.

Officku.
Tell me what satisfaction you both want.

Lord Mordant.
To fight until one or both dies,
Then the combat shall be ended forever.
Enter Detective. Cume, put >jonr suorih in their

.sheaths.
Dktectivh.
Stop, not one- of you di'aw swords ;
Hear me speak, I shall convince you.
This man here, his name is not B »swell,
But Ardrettia, son of Sir Alltiston,

224

MiLIJONS FOR \lKH.

Sup])(>sed to have Im^mi wi-ccUfd find lost,
I Jul cscfijH'd tilt' disusicf, now sliuids licit'.

Maijvkttia.
TIhmi 1i(» must Ik" jiiy own hrothcr.

Dktkctivk.
Tf you'ro Miss Allfiston, Ik^'s your brollicr,
You should know ini;, your old skipper.

UOSAVKLL.

T know you vciy well, old hoy.
Wlicn- on earth liave you couu^ f loui ?

Dktkotivk.
T am a |)etecti\e, luive discoverod you
While s(^ai'ehin«.,^ foi' the two hurglars, who
llohhed Sir All(i.st(»n's haidv at the (Jranj't! ;
I 'or the last yeai- found you hei'o
Under an assumed name, Honoraltle Mr. Boswel
1 knew your connade and yoursolf,
Know all your infatuation for that lady ;
If the Honorable Mr. lioswell had killed
His oj)ponent, which luekily he did not,
lie would hav(! nianied his own sister.

Makvkttia.
Tell me, art thou my lost hrothtM*,
And that thy right name is Alltiston ?

HOSWKLL.

On board ship they ealhul me AlHislon ;
Ivemeudjei'ing- when a boy T left home
On one of Her ^^ajosty's warships.
Which got strandtid on the Pacific Ocean ;
I clung to the ship, was rescued ;
Then I forgot all my bearings and

.;b

Millions foh Heu. 225

Tlie parents who must liavo raised me.
My rescuer brought mo back to Gibraltar,
Where he left me, never returned again ;
Then working my way back to London,
Travelled through that city starving,
Knew not where to go, what to do ;
Was so depn^ssed with grief ami woe
That I determined to take ray life ;
Lord Mordant caught me in the act.
Begged of me to become his partner ;
Having now reason to thank him sincerely,
For through him I have found my parents ;
She who would have been my wife,
Turns out now to be my sister.
Allow me, my rescuer, to congratulate you
For the very honorable way you acted ;
You have saved a life, perhaps too ;
You gave a son to mother, father,
And a brother to his loved sister.

Marvettia.
And he brought a husband to me.

Lord Mordant.
Yes, my darling, a husband to thee.
Enter Sir Allfiston.
Sir Allfiston.
Tell me if this aflfair is settled,
Who's the victor and who's the defeated 1

Lord Mordant.
Yes, Sir Allfiston, we'r'- all victorious ;
You are the victor, here's your son.

226

Millions for Her.

B:' ■

Sir Allfiston.
My son ! no, it is Mr. Boswell.

BOSWELL.

No, father, it is not Mr. Boswell,

But your own lost son, Ardrettia Allliston ;

Whereby this duel I have found you.

My mother, sister, and brother-in-law.

See, this old shipmate of mine {Points to Detectivk. )

Deserves all our thanks and good reward.

He it was who discovered my identity ;

Came and stopp'^d us in our duel.

If he had not come so quickly

There might be two dead men here ;

But all is well that ends well.

Can't you father, recognize me, your son 1

Sir Allfiston.
You may be my son, 1 cannot tell ;
Your mother, if she be your mother,
I'm sure she can decide for me.

Boswell.
Then take her to me, to know
Whether I be the boy she lost ;
All the proof I have is what
The mate of the ship has said.
He seems to know all my pedigree ;
If you, father, are in doubt about
My identity, inquire of him, he knows.

Sir Allfiston.
I remember thy mother speaking about
You having a mark on your arm ;
She knows well what caused that mark.

Millions for Her.

227

BOSWELL.

If that's true, I am your son,

Such as my mother described to you.

On my arm is a mark ; pee. (Showi^ arm.)

Sir Allfiston.

My dear boy, I vow it's true.
Come, my son, to see your mother.
You, sir, who have brought my son
Back to us shall not be forgotten.
Meet me here privately, we shall consider
As to your future welfare and prospect.
Sir, what is your name ? tell me.

Detective.

My name is Herita Calvin ; profession, detective ;
My address, Scotlnnd Yard Police Station, London.

Sir Allfiston.

Thank you ; you shall hear from me.

(Detective retires.)
Now, my Lord Mordant, are you satisfied ?

Lord Mordant.
Who would not be satisfied with her,
And a father-in-law like you ?

Sir Allfiston.
And me with a son-in-law like you.
You have won my daughter, I confess ;
She is a precious gift, I vow ;
But still there's in store for you
Much wealth and treasure, you don't know.
Some future time I'll talk of this,
And bless the stars who helped us.

i- .

1'^

■■t .

.J '■

k'yii

M,l!

228 Millions for Her.

Lord Mordant.

I retire awhile to let you

And your better-half enjoy your son's

Company. His mother shall know it's him,

And at your leisure we will appoint

A day to discuss our important matters.

Wishing you, Sir Allfiston, and my intended

Pleasant anticipations for the future, good-bye.

Exit.

END OF SCENE II.

Scene III. — Parlor Mar.<eiUes Hotel.

{Enter Sir and Lady Allfiston, Marvettia and
Ardrettia Allfiston.)

Sir Allfiston.

Now, Lady Allfiston, you were once introduced

To this gentleman as the Hon. Mr. Boswell.

It was a false name he took,

His own proper name being Ardrettia Allfiston.

He is also your long-lost son,

And come to you to identify him.

At one time you spoke to me

About a mark on his left arm ;

He will now show you that arm.

And you can judge for yourself.

Lady Allfiston.
Yes, it is the mark he had.
And he is my own long-lost boy.
I could tell you without this mark.
! Ardrettia, how did you recognize us.
Being so long away from your parents ?

Ardrettia.
It was not me who recognized you,

Millions for Her.

But a seaman who knew me before.
He's now the detective who followed us,
After robbing the bank at the Grange.
We were both wrecked in mid-oci an,
He taking me with him to Gibraltar.
He always called me Ardrettia or Alf,
Also telling me my father was wealthy.
So, leaving me in Gibraltar, went away.
I never saw him again till now.

Sir Allfiston.
He arrived at a very important time.
To stop the antagonists who were fighting.
Had he not been there on time
We would not have a son now,
Or daughter, who gets a wealthy husband.

Makvettia.
I love my brother for my husband,
Not knowing he was my dear brother.
My brother, long may he be spared.
And our lives together shall be shared.

229

Exit

END OF SCENE III.

Scene IV. — A private dining-room in .]farseilles
Hotel. {Enter Archer, Eveleen, John Donetia
and Deboria). ( They partake of their last
meal in France).
Archer.
We take our last meal in France.
John Donetia.
Then I hope it shall be good.

Deboria.
So would I like something very nice.

230

Millions for Her.

!«fa

EVELEEN.

Give me some macaroni on a slice.

Archer.

Give me some chow-chow with rice;
Or some oysters with salt and spice,
Have you heard was the duel finished,
And who was conquered and who punished 1

John Donetia.
There was no one conquered, nor one punished.
They say there was a great mistake,
And stopped the duel for his sake.
He, whom we always called Mr. Boswell
Turns out to be Sir Allfiston's son.
He went to sea, was thought drowned,
Unknown to them for twenty long years.
The mate of the vessel knew him.
Called him Ardrettia Allfiston, of the Grange,
On board ship sailors called him Alf.
This made him forget his surname.
In twenty years lost remembrance of home.
Deserted and alone wandered all round Gibraltar,
Then worked his way back to London,
Where he fell in with Lord Mordant,
Who was as shiftless as himslf.
Asking his assistance to rob Allfiston's bank,
Which they did of one hundred thousand.
And shared the amount between them both.
The rest you are all aware of.

EvELEEN.

How very strange things come about. Archer.
This Boswell, Mordant might have killed him.

Millions for Her.

231

Then Sir Allfiston would have no son,
Miss Marvettia would marry Lord Mordant, then.
Who slew her brother in the duel.

Deboria.

I told you, Eveleen, remember, long ago,
That the AUfistons would sure have trouble ;
Now, you see my words come true.
Misfortunes ever since we left the Grange.

John Donetia.
I knew, Deboria, that trouble would come.
And we were right, Eveleen was wrong.
If this Mr. Bos well be their son.
Won't he be his father's only heir ?
At his father's decease take his place.
Miss Marvettia shall be well provided for
By Lord Mordant, who is immensely rich.
Their son now must get a bride
Of equal wealth and standing like him.
Then the Allfiston family shall be happy,
Old Allfiston then can take his comfort.

Archer.
Sir Allfiston has issued to all invitations
For a farewell parting banquet and dance.

He ordered me to invite you all

To come to the hotel's large hall.

Here to enjoy and share with us

This last night we stay in Paris.

Deboria.

That's very kind .ndeed of Sir Allfiston.

My John Donetia shall dance with me,

And Archer shall swing round his Eveleen,

Ktiti

232 Millions for Her.

The fairest one there to be seen.

Exit.
(All retire to prepare for ball).

END OF SCENE IV.

Scene V. — A ball-room at the hotd.
Enter Sir Allfiston and Lady Allfiston, I oint
Mordant and Misa Marvettia Allfiston, M w.
Ardrettia and Lady Gordon, Mr. Arciikh
and EvELEEN, John Donetia and
Miss Deboria.
[All join in and dance the Circassian reel, follow t-i I
by quadrilles, etc., after which they all sit down
and partake of refreshments, then they rctiic*
and listen to songs and speeches.]

A song to be given.
j , Then Mr. Ardrettia Allfiston makes a sjieex/i.

Ladies and gentlemen, we tried to please you ;

If we have succeeded, we are satisfied.

And again should you come to view,

" Millions For Her " shall again be reviewed.

Now, farewell to you all this season,

Away we go another place to play ;

" Millions For Her," it is our reason,

For "Millions For Her" always pay.

Good-night, joy be with you all !

Think of us until we come again ;

May this theatre have no empty stall ;

Your favor we strive always to obtain.
I * If this drama has any great fault

Which does not meet your recommendation,

I'l I liOt us know at once ; we'll halt

And rectify it for your observation.
: I ; ' Exit all.

The End.

THE BATTLE OF THE LITTLE BIG HORN.

A DRAMA IN FOUR ACTS.

CAST OF CHARACTERS.

General Custer, a General of American Army.
Capt. T. W. C. Custer, a nephew of Gen. Custer.
Roy Buster, a son of Mrs. Buster.
Sitting Bull, the head Sioux Chief.
Cheyenne, a Sioux Chief.
Captain Prichard, a Capt. in Custer's Army.
Lieut. A. E. Smith, Lieut, in Custer's Army.
Lieut. W. Van W. Riley, Lieut, in Custer's Army
Alexander Galveston, President of a Mining Com

pany.
Capt. T. W. Yates, Capt. in Custer's Army.
Sioux Warriors.

Camp of Miners, Attendants, etc.
Mrs. Custer, wife of C. Custer.
Greta Custer, daughter of C. Custer.
Mrs. Buster, mother of Roy Buster.

SYNOPSIS OF SCENERY.
ACT I. — Scene 1.— A sitting-room in Mrs.
Buster's home. Scene 2. — A station on boundary
line of Montana Territory. Scene 3.— A waiting-
room in a station. Scene 4. — A camp of Sioux

warriors.

—233—

>fI1

234

The Little Big Horn.

ACT IT. — Scene 1. — A camping ground of
General Custer's Army. Scene 2.— A battle ground.
Scene 3. — A camping giound with wigwam. Scene
4. — A miner's camp.

ACT III.— Scene 1. — A wigwam. Scene 2. — A
tent on the prairie. Scene 3. — A mining camp
located in Custer Valley. Scene 4. —Roy Buster's
tent on the prairie.

ACT IV. — Scene 1. — A miner's camp. Scene
2.— A drawing-room in General Custer's home.
Scene 3. — A banqueting hall.

ACT I.

Scene I. — A sitting-room in Mrs. Buster's hofup..
Enter Mrs. Bustek and Roy, her sou.

Mrs. Buster.
Roy, my son, for you I've done,
All that a widowed mother can do ;
You know, Roy, you are well educated.
And fit now to study a profession ;
But before you start to do that,
You must take a tour somewhere,
To revive your health and get fat ;
Boy> you like others then shall compare,
You can choose where you may travel
For to revive your lately failing health,
You shall get strong, then you'll marvel.

Roy.
I have a wish to travel west,
Upon the open prairies that are wide,
I do intend to go in haste

The LiiTLE Bia Horn.

And part of the way I shall ride.
Mother, I am sorry to leave you
Here, by yourself, at home all alone,
For it may be years a few
Before I can return again to you.

Mrs. Buster.

Roy, I shall miss you from home.

And be very lonely without my boy ;

To get knowledge you have to roam,

Hearing from you will give me joy ;

And should prosperity come thy way,

I know you shall remember your mother ;

Correspond with her from day to day.

This, dear boy, you shall always consider.

To the west where you are going,

A prosperous land where fortunes are made ;

The country is progressing and fast growing,

There's plenty room for man and maid.

Roy.
T believe, mother, I shall there succeed,
i: I do will not forget you.
My dear, kind mother, O no, indeed.
For you were to me always true ;
My schoolmate said he would not go.
With me to the far western plains.
Now he tells me he doesn't know,
Of the hardship his parents complain,
I shall go on my own hook.
Without the company of anyone.
I shall succeed by hook or crook.
And on my journey I will go on.

235

236 The Little Bia Horn.

To win fame and fortune for myself.

I won't have to share my fortune with another.

All I desire is to have good health ;

That is better than a comrade, mother.

Mrs. Bustkr.
Well, my poor boy, I too think so ;
By being alone you shall take heed
To my advice that's right you know.
Hoy, having company they might you bleed,
r shall pack up your travelling trunk,
Put all things in their proper place.
Parting with you I am quite f r.i iik,
All good wishes for you I express.

Roy.

jj ,' Then, mother, at the hour of six

My departure ^hall take place from here ;

By that all things we can fix,

To you, mother, I'll be always sincere.

Exit.
{They retire to prepare outfit.)

END OF SCENE I.

Scene II.— ^ station on tJie boundary line of Mon-
tana Territorif, where General Custer is recruit-
ing scouts to go on Sitting Bull's trail.
Enter Captain Custer, General Custer and scouts.

, Capt. Custer.

I have succeeded enlisting fifteen scouts,
Who are accustomed to the scouting profession.
They gave proof sufficient without any doubts
They have come from a fighting relation.

The Little Bio Horn.

237

Gen. Custer.
Make them fall into your company ;
Prepare thy men for an early start,
To proceed to the Little Big Horn,
Where thy soldiers must all be alert.
The eneny is numerous and well prepared
To receive us with defiance until death.
I trust no American soldier be scared,
But fight determinedly until his last breath ;
Then thy country shall honor you all,
As it did to heroes in the past.
When they all obeyed their country's call,
To fight her foes until the last.
You shall have done your duty honorably.
When thy country's foes are all defeated.
I cannot believe you shall act dishonorably,
That no one can say you retreated,
But face the enemy and defy them.
To defeat them I think we're able.
As we did when last they came.
To defy them we had no trouble.
Captain, have thy company prepared to start
At the bugle call in half an hour ;
I have marked our route on a chart.
Which we travel with all our power.
Keeping strict look-out as we go forward
Not to let the enemy surprise us.
And attack us as we move onward.
Th*i enemy, I trust, we shall not miss.
So that this war shall end quickly,
That we may return home in peace
And in good health and not sickly.

238 The Little Big Horn.

When each soldier's inheritance shall then increase.
Your wife and daughter, have they arrived
Tn camp, and prepared for their reception ?

Capt. Custer.

Yes, General, to have them I contrived ;
They won't cause the army any obstruction.

Gen. Custer.

Captain, take women, those who are suitable
And willing to come along with us ;
Those whom you accept must be useful,
All the wounded soldiers they must nurse.

Capt. Custer.

General, I am exceedingly pleased with them
For their assistance shall bo required shortly.
They all acted promptly when they came ;
They appear in good health, and strongly
To assist the fallen and the wounded
With the medical staff who are here.
When by the enemy they are surrounded,
To help the fallen they will be sincere.

Gen. Custer.
Yes, Captain, you can depend upon them ;
They'll do their duty, give you satisfaction,
To you obliging, and always the same.
And to the suffering a great attraction.
Now, Captain, the time has almost arrived
I i To move on at the bugle-call.

Capt. Custer.
To have all ready, I have contrived
To be prepared at the bugle-call. ,.

j 1»

The Little Big Horn.

239

Gen. Custer.
Then you have done your honest duty
For which you shall gain quick promotion.
You shall instruct Lieut. Smith his duty
To lead his scouts on every occasion
Tell him to keep ahead of the army,
About the distance of, say, five miles,
Send us despatch when he sees en^my.
Then we'll proceed with all our files
To conquer Sitting Bull and all his warriors.
This shall finish all our Indian braves.
As victors we'll return to Camp Harris,
Although, likely, some may lie in graves.

Capt. Custer.

General, don't take such a gloomy view,

Believing we shall conquer without great loss,

Maybe suffer, the taking away a few

When the treacherous plains we march across.

For to conquer the enemy we must

The sooner it is accomplished the better ;

To be victorious we must now trust

Tn our Almighty God our foes to scatter.

Gen. Custer.
Yes, Captain, God's help is great power.
We shall go forward in His care,
Beseeching His assistance onward hour by hour,
And then our victories we shall share ;
Our purpose is to teach the heathen,
To make them understand our God aright,
Who gives them light, breath and reason.
When we leave them with their instructors,

240

The Little Big Horn.

They shall think the change most charming ;

They'll be taught to be honest workers,

Then the army returns to their camp

To enjoy the results of war's success,

At intervals take to ourselves a tramp

To pass time in some quiet recess.

Exit.

Scene III. — A waiting-room in a station.

Enter Mrs. Buster and he?' son Roy,

Mrs. Buster.
Roy, my boy, we are parting now,
It may be long before meeting again.
'Tis God's will, to Him I bow
And pray that health you shall regain ;
That when you return to thy home.
You'll be able to begin your life profession,
And not again from me ever roam,
Roy, this is my desire and expression.

Roy.
Mother, hoping your expectation shall be fulfilled,
I'll do nothing to check thy desire ;
This is my honest wish and will
To adhere to it till I expire.
Going forth from my home and mother
Makes me so sad and very sorrowful.
Knowing I shall not meet with another
Like you, for your kindness I am thankful.
Thou art the magnet to bring me back,
Wherever in the far west I travel,
Thinking of thee while on my track,
Not from my memory thyself unravel.

The Little Big Horn.

241

And, mother, should prosperity come my way,
I shall quickly to you come back
To live with thee till thy last day.
My love for thee shall never lack.

Mrs. Buster.
Roy, may the Almighty Father guide thee,
I leave thee in His Almighty care,
Trusting in Him; He is merciful, you see.
And all His bounties you shall share.
Now, my son, we're going to part,
Let me embrace you once more.
Then press me to thy fond heart.
Just as I ofttimes did before.

( They embrace.)

Roy.

Farewell, my mother, may God bless you ;

It is the last wish of thy boy.

Thou wert always faithful, good and true.

Until I return may thou have joy.

(Roy departs. His mother retires to her home.)

Exit.

Scene IV. — A camp of Sioux warriors. Enter Sittinq
Bull, Chyenne in command.
Sitting Bull.
White man kill Sioux, take our land,
We must kill white man or die.
To defy them we Sioux must stand
Defending our hunting grounds ; our war-cry
Shall warn you to fight our foes
That not one of them return alive.
Their bodies stray the plain in rows.
16-

242

The Little Big Horn.

I'l.'- '

This, to accomplish, brave warriors, you'll strive

That the Sioux nation shall be remembered

For protecting their hunting ground from white men.

Praise from other Indian nations shall be rendered

To us who bravely fought the white man.

Now, Sioux, let us sing our wg,r song.

Prepare to receive the white man's thieves

Who have hounded us and did us wrong ;

Slay them, to rot among the leaves.

(They sing their irar song and rotire to arvait the
enemy. )

Exit.

ACT II.

Scene I. — A camping ground o/" General Custer'*-

army where scouts return to report the location

of the enemy. General Custer gives

command to march against the foe

t and give them battle.

Gen. Custer.

Captain T. VV. Custer, of No. 1 Company 1

Capt. T. W. Custer.
General, here I am present.

Gen. Custer.

Captain G. W . Yates, No. 2 Company 1

Capt, G. W. Yates.
General, here I am present.

Gen. Custer.
Lieut. Smith, No. 1 Company?

Lieut. A. E. Smith.
General, here I am present.

The Little Biq Horn.

243

Gen, Custer.

Lieut. W. Van W. Rielly 1

Lieut. W. Van W. Rielly.

General, here I am present.

Gen. Custer.

Officers and soldiers of the United States,

Are you prepared to face the enemy ?

Sitting Bull's courier, whose name is Betts,

He has had an interview with me ;

Informed me these Sioux were anxiously waitinjL,'

For us at the Little Big Horn.

Soldiers, you must at once be prepared.

We must not our Sioux enemy scorn ;

They will fight and give no quarter,

And our scalps they all may take.

In your companies see there's no deserter,

Each soldier fight for his country's sake.

Revenge our people's slaughter on the border.

Teach them a lesson they won't forget.

This shall give the Sioux a recorder

Of the Sioux Indian band's last fate.

[The soldiers give a rousing cheer to General Custer.
The star-spangled banner by the companies is
raised and they all sing the " Star-spangled
Banner." When finished, the officers and sol-
diers call out : " General, we are ready. Lead

us on." They then retire to await the foe.]

Exit.

end of act II. — SCENE I.

Scene II. — ^4 Battleground. Enter General Custer

and his Army.

Genl. Custer.

Soldiers, we now face the brave Sioux warriors.

^mm

244

The Little Big Horn.

At my command, go fight our foe,
And don't give way to any barriers.
And no quarter shall we then show.
We shall win this conflict or perish —
Leave our bodies to the ferocious vulture.
Take this warning, my soldiers, and cherish
When to face your enemy you venture.
This is my last warning to you.
Now, come, march, I lead the way ;
I have confidence you shall be true.
Then we'll win the battle this day.

[Six soldiers stand in line with blank cartridge, (in-
a Aolley at the enemy, who shall be prepared
concealed beyond the scenes. After the volley
by Custer's troops the Sioux warriors shall en-
ter upon the stage. Each side fire their re-
volvers and rifles with blank cartridge ; then
the American Army falls down dead or wound-
ed, while General Custer stands between them
with revolvers in both hands, fighting until a
ball of the enemy pierced his heart, and he died
among his comrades. The Sioux warriors stand
beside the dead and sing their war song.]

(Sitting Bull speaks.)

Sitting Bull.

We have our revenge and hunting-grounds.
Indian free to go hunt his game ;
White man lie dead, pierced with wounds.
Though to conquer us here they came,
This shall give the white man a warning.
During the years that yet shall be,

The Little Big Horn.

245

No more with the Sioux be warring ;

The Sioux nation shall now be free.

We'll bury the white chief in grave,

And mark the spot where he fell ;

For the white man chief he was brave,

This to his countrymen we now tell :

He the first and last to fight.

Dropped down dead beside his brave warriors.

This, we thought, was just quite right,

That there should be hereafter no barriers ;

We take possession of our hunting-groundf,

Where we shall settle with papoose and squaw

Along the prairie plains by the ponds,

The richest hunting-grounds the Sioux saw.

This was ours before white man came

To rob us of our rich heritage.

The Great Moneet'a, that was his name.

Gave us the land without a grudge ;

So, Sioux, we remain here and prosper.

White men stay in their own land,

Never come again to fight the Sioux,

For the lesson they receirea .uey'll understand ;

They'll stay at home and ride their bicycles.

[The Sioux retire to their hunting-grounds, taking
with them Captain and Mrs Custer. The Chief
takes their daughter away from her parents ;
they are made prisoners, taken in charge by
four Sioux Chiefs, who lead them off bound to-
gether. While on their way they meet a band
of miners, who demanded their release. As they
were overpowered, they granted their release,
liien Captain Custer and his wife accompany

246

The Kittle Biu Horn.

ill:

the miners to their journey's end, where they
make their abode.]

END SCENE H.— ACT II.

Exit.

Scene III. — Camping-ground with wigwam. {Epiter
Greta Custer and Sioux Chief.

Sioux Chief.
Well, White Lily, what do you desire ?

Greta Custer.
My liberty from you, I do ask ;
This is all from you I require.

Chief.
This for me is a hard task ;
I shall take you to my wigwam
To be my squaw and future heir.
Now, White Lily, with me you come
To my wigwam village ; with me there
My great warriors shall treat you nice ;
Your life shall be like a dream ;
It shall cost you nothing in price.
To you, Lily, this strange may seem ;
This truth I swear, by the Great Spirit,
No harm will come to White Lily.
This promise I make to you here ;
I am a wise Chief, not silly ;
I know how to protect you always
From all the storms on the plain.
And the great sun's hot burning rays
No part of your white beauty stain.
Lily, I love you for your beauty ;
Your bewitching eyes have caught my heart.

h I

in i

The Little Big Hohn.

Having your life I did my duty ;
Now from me you must not part.

Greta Custer.

Chief, tell me if my parents live,
Or were they slain by thy warriors ?
Great Chief, if saved I you forgive,
And all the rest of thy warriors.

Chief.

Fair Lily, no they are not slain,
They live in freedom as we do,
Their life and liberty they did regain ;
This, I state White Lily, is true.

Greta.
Then I do respect the White Chief,
Trusting you shall take me to them.
For their absence does cause me grief.
I wish they with me had come.
Then they might give me to you
For your goodness in saving my life,
By this good act you shall do
I yet may be your squaw wife.

Chief.
White Lily, you speak fair to me.
My warriors shall bring them here
Where they shall give you to me,
Then no more hereafter need they fear ;
I shall provide for them a wigwam.
All good game from the hunting ground
Shall abundantly be supplied their wigwam
Then peace and freedom they have found.

247

1 f

248

The Little Bio HoiiiJ.

.'I

ll'P

m'.

Greta.
Chief, you bring gladness to my heart
By what you just now have spoken,
From you I shall not part.
Please accept from me this simple token,
Our people say it is very valuable,
To you it may not be precious,
Sometime it may to you be serviceable
Receiving this you need not be grievous.

Chief.
Fair Lily, receiving this treasure I couiprrlicnd
It comes from you to a loving heart.
All my thanks to you I now extend.
To bring your parents now I start,
For my warriors for me are waiting
By mountain, by lake, by river and creek,
For your good people they are searching.
Are you willing I go now, Lily speak ?

Greta.

Yes, Great Chief, I can trust you
To quickly bring my father, mother here ;
The promise you made, keep it true,
For I love my father, mother dear ;
Should you succeed I'll give another token
Which is more valuable than the other.
This is truth. Chief, I have spoken,
When you return thou'It have that other.

Chief.
White Lily, let that other be thyself.
Sooner to my Lily I'll come back.
Give you myself and all my wealth,

The Little Bio Horn. 249

This gives me courage on my track,
You'll live in wigwam till my return ;
Braves give you game from hunting ground.
Now, my White Lily, we shall adjourn,
Not returning till your parents are found.

Greta.
Chief, may the Great Moneetia guide thee,
And bring you safely back with them,
Then tell them you have saved me,
That I am protected in your wigwam.

(JT/ie Chief goes away to join the warriors.)
Exit Greta.

END OF SCENE III. — ACT II.

Scene IV. — A caynp of miners^ attacked hij the Sioux
tvarriors trying to recaptiire Captain Citster and
his wife. Sioux led by the Siotix Chief ivho wants
to take them to tlieir daughter. The miners will
not give them up, so they give battle to the Sioux
and the Sioux Chief is shot dead, also most of his
tvarriors ; some escape, go back to the Chief's
camp, report the battle and his death to the White
Lily and inform her she ivill never see her mother
and father again. Enter Chief, Head Miner,
an army of mmers and an army of Sioux
tvarriors.

Chief.

I come to take white man, woman
To their daughter now in my wigwam,
Far away yonder by the rising son.
Shall you let them with me come ?

I-

250 The Little Biu Horn.

Head Miner.

Tliey do not desire to accompany you ;
Uo, bring their daughter to this camp
If you be good Chief and true,
Should you not, out of this tramp
Or be shot, you and your warriors.

Chief.

I promised "White Lily, live or die.
To bring them back with my warriors.
And good Sioux Chief never tell lie.
Tf you shall not give them peaceable
T shall at once fight white miners ;
My warriors are all brave and reliable
A nd shall at once massacre the miners.

Head Miner.

Great Chief, there the miners are prepared,
To show you I shall give command,
These miner-warriors shall make you scared.
Are you prepared before them to stand ?

Chief.

Sioux warriors stand before any white man,
Protect his rights upon his hunting ground,
To face your miner warriors we can
Slay them like Custer, on the ground.

(At this challenge the miners fire ; the Sioux Chief is

the first to fall dead, and the most of his warriors

bite the dust. Mr. and Mrs. Custer are

saved in m^iners^ camp.)

Exit.

END ACT II. — SCENE IV.

The Little Big Horn.

251

ACT III.

Scene I. — A tviyivam. — Enter three Sioux warriors
and Greta Custf.ii.

Ghi:ta.
Sioux warrior.s, where is your Great Chief,
And where is my father and mother.
Let me know, warriors, be you brief.
Speak, one of you, and no others 1

Sioux Warrior.
Pale Lily, the Great Chief is dead.
All of his brave warriors that remain
Are us who didn't lose our head.
But hastened to come to you again
To tell you, Lily, of that catastrophy.
We tried to take thy father, mother
From the border miners down in Astrophy.
We left them dead there altogether.

Greta.
Then is my father, mother both killed.
Oh ! tell me, warriors, if it's true ?
For with sorrow and grief I am filled.
Hearing such a sad account from you.

Sioux Warrior.
White Lily, we tell you no lies,
Thy father and mother may be alive.
We see your grief, hear your cries.
To S' "'3 them we still may strive.
Lily, we shall protect you remaining here,
While we order other warriors to go.
They'll bring them here, don't you fear.
This all the Lily wants to know.

252

The Little Bia Horn.

On ETA.

Then, bravo Sioux, give your order quickly ;
You need not fear me being alone.
You know I shall not be sickly.
Bringing them you I can trust upon.
Waiting here patiently until you do return
Successfully with my father and mother.
You hear what I say, so adjourn
Until we meet here again one another,

Sioux Warrior.
Brave Lily, we go obey thy commands.
We shall fight the miners and conquer,
And your parents we shall then demand ;
This will ease your grief and anger.
The second encampment of Sioux warriors depart
To try again to capture Greta's parents.
We leave you, White Lily, to start
To succeed in bringing back your parents.
Though we cannot take back your Chief,
He is gone from the Hunting Land.
This, fair Lily, may cause you grief.
We for him fight the miner band.
So, farewell, Lily, till we come back,
May the sun shine down on thee.
For our best eflfort shall not lack.
And true to thy late Chief shall be.

( The Sioux Warriors depart on their second expedition,
to the miners^ camp, where they are again massacred.)

Greta.
I know they'll never return to me,
I must prepare to leave this place,

The Little Bio Houn.

253

Then once again I shall be free.

My way from here I must trace,

On my path, for fear of capture.

For the Sioux are roaming everywhere.

I shall make with them no barter.

And my life with them not share.

I'll travel in the day and night

To be away from my Chief's camp.

Go to where I first see light.

Thus, continuing always on my constant tramp,

Perhaps I'll meet a countryman my own

Who shall take me to the miners' camp.

If not, endeav(jr to find the camp alone,

Although having to cross prairie and swamp.

Now to begin my travel, the coast clear.

The Sioux may they all me miss

Till I'am distance far from here.

Then I shall outwit them all yet.

And they shall think that very queer.

Oh ! Heavenly Father, send me a friend

To guide me on to welcome salvation.

To meet my parents at the end.

Hear me, a child of Thy creation.

I'm weak, depending on Thy mighty power.

Give me strength to fulfil my purpose.

Oh ! do, I'll thank thee every hour.

This I'm willing, and God knows.

{Greta departs on her journey).
Exit.

END SCENE I., ACT III.

254

The Little Big Horn.

ii^^i

Wi-!i

!;' 1.

Scene II. — A tent oyi the prairie. Enter Roy and

Greta.

Greta.
Oh ! sir, who art thou I meet 1
On my way I have travelled long,
I am weak and weary on my feet,
For such a journey I'm not strong.

Roy.
Maiden, what distant part came you from
To be here on the prairie alone.
Where fierce Sioux Indians make their home ;
Maiden, have you not them come upon ?

Greta.

Yes sir, I have escaped from them,
I'm afraid they are following me now;
They know my parents and their name.
To find them I don't know how.

Roy.

When did you see your parents last ?
Have you just left them to-day ?

Greta.
On no ! 'tis just one one year past
When the Sioux took them both away.

Roy.
How came they to take your parents.
Maiden ? What is your name and theirs 1
Had you no account of your parents ?
Please tell me some of their affairs
That I may understand how you're situated ;
Since you came here my company shares,
While remaining you shall be well treated.

i . i

The Little Bio Horn.

255

and

Greta.
Sir, you speak kindly to a stranger maiden ;
My story is long, you might be weary
Listening to it, I would be detained
Too long. I must cross the prairie,
Can you direct me to Mining Camp,
Some distance from the Little Big Horn 'I
I heard 'twas near the Wat-a-way Swamp
Where the Sioux braves Custer's array shorn
Not one of them were left living,
My father and mother were taken captive,
With the Great Sioux Ch.'ef I was residing
There in sorrow as a poor captive.

Roy.

Maiden, you have not given your name,
Why do you keep that from me ?

Greta.
Because I thought you knew my name
When first T came in front of thee ;
My name you wish to know is Greta Custer,
Daughter of Captain Custer, and no other;
They were rescued from Sioux at Buster,
To find the place I must consider.

Roy.
Greta, it's them you are searching for.
And have you knowledge of the way,
Are you going by chance to explore.
Travelling as you have by night and day ?

Greta.
You asked my name, tell me thine.
And why living in this lonely place,

256

The Little Bia Horn.

Where no one dwells all through sunshine,
Moon by night too shows her face.

Roy.
Abide with me my abode to share,
It's just a very modest, humble tent.
There's no one about cosier anywhere,
It costs me not a cent of rent.
And you are welcome here to stay
To share with me my simple fare.
The night's dark, you'll lose your way;
All I have with you I'll share.
My name is Roy Buster, a student ;
My father died, my mother still lives;
You may think me leaving her imprudent.
The reason I'll tell, then you'll forgive.
One year I wandered on the plain
To revive my health and get strong,
In sunshine, in storm and in rain,
And here I must not stay too long ;
Before I came here, by confining study
My health gave way ; now I'm well.
Now I'm perfectly convalescent, strong and sturdy,
And in this humble tent I dwell.
Now, Greta, come share it with me,
And prepare for yourself some nourishment.
For this is all I have for thee ;
Perhaps this food may satisfy thy appetite.
While out hunting I shot four ducks,
I cooked and ate one this noon;
Here is a fire-place with sticks
That shall start the fire very soon,
And here is a patented portable oven

The Little Hic. Hui^n.

257

Wliero T cooked this halc-li of bread ;

A good l)aker, T thiiilc, I've proven,

Although the work I always have dread.

Now, Greta, eat this, then tell me

If it is well made or not.

The duck shall be nice, you'll see.

But oh : Greta, I have entirely forgtjt

To give you a drink of prairie tea ;

This shall be a surprise to thee

When you take a drink may-be,

What else would you desire, Fll see.

Greta, here is some wild bee's honey :

It's sweeter than our bees at home

That cost us, I bo'ieve, twelve penny

Per pound, here it costs no sum :

Here's a medicine I made from lierb8,

It's a splendid remedy for the blood.

It keeps the blood healthy, fulnt^ss absoi'bs :

It's a plant that grows in mud:

My medical ti-aining enables me to understand

The curative parts of this valuable plant :

There shall be for it a great demand,

Purchasing no one need say they can't.

Greta, my fortune shall then l)e made.

Enabling me to support comfortably a wife

And to supply her with a maid.

Then she shall have an easy life,

Which women these days, 1 think, desire,

Although, I believe, there's some that don't :

To be active in business they aspire:

Others are lazy and vvo)-k tliey wont

Oh ! Greta, does my .speaking weary you ?
17

258

The Little Big Horn.

Ittf ii;

ti '!

If it does 1 will jjive you c'l chance ;
AVliat T explain to you is true,
Now, (lireta, you can speak at once.

GUETA.

I was so delighted when you explained

The virtue derived from that excellent plant.

I am sure, Hoy, your fortune is gained,

To roam these prairies more you shan't.

When you were relating your great experience

I was ferociously devouring your seasoned duck ;

Appeasing my appetite prepared me going hence,

On my way may I have luck

To (juickly tind the miners' distant camp

Where, no doul)t, I'll tind my parents.

T am refreshed now for my tramp.

And thank you for your kind hospitality.

It's likely here you shall be remaining ;

I'm aware you are of good quality.

Thanking you much for your ho-pitable entertaining,

I am prepared to go from here. Farewell !

Oh I that we both may meet again,

When my love for you 1 may tell ;

Oh I sir, this parting gives me pain.

Roy.

Then, Greta, do not part from me,

Your life here is in my protection,

And lam now responsible for thee.

You confess loving me with great affection.

I vow, Greta, to love you also.

You need not then have any fear ;

With you to travel I shall go.

The Littlk Big Uows.

2n9

And help to tiiid tliy father, mother,

This is my duty as a lo\ er ;

For, like you, I saw no other,

And shall pnttect you, Greta, for ever.

Answer, Greta, does this give you satisfaction?

GliKTA.

Oh ! yes, Hoy, it is too much, indeed

You have shown me, since coming, attention.

And your oftering with me to proceed

I ha^'e tor you the kindest affection,

With thy help I shall find them,

Then my contentment shall l)e for evermore,

Thanking my God to you 1 came,

A kiudet' str,'iii>;er T never met l)efore.

PvOV.

No, Givta, 1 only acted the good Samaritan,

Supjilying your wants and sharing my abode

Witli you, now, (ireta, to me lieaiken,

We shall both pr-ay, thank the Lord.

Here, standing beside me in sweet simplicity,

In this dreary, silent place of solitude,

I am impressed by thy true sincerity,

And thou shalt receive all my gratitude.

Thy pale face, so silent iiud cahn,

Bewitches all my l)eing and all my fortitude,

By the sweet essence of Love's balm,

To my throbbing heart it is food.

Stirring and reviving all my inward feeling.

Come, I press thee to my l>reast.

Ah ! my love, thou art indeed willing :

I hear thy iiupulsations from thy chest.

260

The Littlf: Bk; Hohn.

It teaches nic, (Mcta, more tliini word.
That tliou art all, all my own,
ril nurse you like a little hiid,
Foi' the love you now lia\e shown.
Come, darling, I will lay you gently there,
You are weaiy, iwexl sleep and i-est ;
My simple coucli with mo you'll share,
Foi', dear one, you aiv greatly pressed.

(4iii:TA.
Oh, no, Ivuy, liere is a paradise.
And tliou my guide, my hfaveidy angel :
I'll lie down, it is thy advice.
Protect me, thou ait my good angel.

Roy.
Fea)- not, niy Greta, tliou art safe.
Greta, no foe shall here disturl) you ;
T know that thou hast been Ijrave
When the treacherous Sioux did you pursue.
They sleep peacefully, silence reigns over them,
Sleeping happy with each other most content ;
So spotless and pure here they come,
By their Great Almighty Fatiier here sent.

E.rif.

END ACT III.— SCENE II.

Thk Little Big Horn.

261

ACT III.

Scene TIL— ^ Mining-Camp located in Custer
Valley. Enter G, Custeu, President oi Com-
pany, and Alexander Galveston, Supt.,

and Miners,

Custer.
Galveston, we taut^ht that second ►Sioux band
A lesson that they shall never forget •
They thought they would have captured me
And xMrs. Custer, hut they haven't yet.

A. Galveston.
The chief T spoke with has Greta
In his possession ; she Qave him commission
To go bring .you both to Greta,
But, unfortunately, he hatl the leading position,
And was one of the fii-st killed.

CUSTEH.

That was a great mistake we made.

We might have got him to yield,

And guide us to her hiding glade ;

He was the chief of his band.

Some may have escaped the tierce attack :

Returned at once to their hunting land,

Perhaps they sliall bi-ing my Greta back.

A. (Jalveston.
No, they'll hold her as a ransom
For tiiese Sioux we have in captivity.
They know that she thy daughter is handsome,
But they'll not destroy her pure virginity.

202

The Little Bio Hoi^n.

i i

CUSTKH.

We made niillions here in our inines.
T would willingly give jUI I made
When I think l)ack to those old times
When ot't she romped with me in bed ;
Ihit, alas I T fear she is no inore.
Her mother pines and frets every (lay,
And ofttimes she stands at the door
Watching silent as a sentinel, looking away
To see if poor Greta is returning ;
Hut no, she shall nevei- retuin again.
This belief in my memory is running :
Her mother's broken spirit she'll not I'egain.

A. Galveston.
We'll call upon the miners for volunteers —
8ay, about twelve picked men shall do —
To lead them on. Captain Prichard volunteers
To bring thy Greta back to you.

CUSTKR.

Yes, sir, I can trust Captain Prichard
On the expedition, believing he shall i-ucceed ;
I have had always for him regard.
He shall go and return with speed,
Much faster than another I could choose
Who was always trustworthy to me —
That is, if Captain Prichard shall refuse :
But I don't expect that will be.

A. Galveston.
I sent for Crowly to solicit volunteers ;
He'll be liere shortly with them all.
Men for this duty who are cavalier.^.

The Littlk Big Hohn. 263

()l)e(U<;iitly tlieyll answer to Cajjtaiii Custer's call

To Hnil his daughter, hrin^' her here

To receive her parents' true, kind affeciion.

In this expedition they shall be sincere

To bring back Greta to Minors' st;ition.

ClSTKK.

Galveston, should they succeed in bringing her

Back, we'll have a day of rejoicing.

She shall thirdc much of you, sir,

For being t\u) means of lier rescuing.

You have ari-anged this expedition so complete.

Success is bound to crown your effort :

That we with her again shall meet,

To her of thee I'll give good report.

A. Galvkston.
I'm anxious as thee for liei- return.
And hope all shall turn out well.
Then let us, Captain Custer, now adj<»iirn
And have patience till time shall tell
Of her early arrival here in health,
AVlien all shad be joyful and gay,
For she'll receive from thee great wealth
That she knows not of to-day.

Cl'STEFJ.

We shall go now, inspect the men
Who are likely waiting foi* our comiiig.
We must not delay them long, then ;
I shall thank them all for obeying.

Exit Captaix Cr.sTER (inf/ {.iALXKHTOs — ByUer Capt.

Prichard fvith li.U men ; tke;/ ntand in line,

while Caw Cistkr fot^/ Galveston

2()4

Thk LriTLE DUi iloUN.

■ t,

C'apt. CrSTKK.
VoluntojTs, you .iic now in iny employ ;
Vou know what iluty sends you hence —
A duty I hclicvf you all enjoy,
A duty, you all know, (jf threat conseijucnce
To ine, your old and lespected captain,
Who always had <^njat confidence in you.
You did not cai'e what had happened.
To die Of li\-c y(»u were true.
Kelyitii; in thy ;il)ility to defy the enemy,
And brinj; me my daui^hter Greta back,
f trust in each mjin's true sincerity.
That their enerufy shall iievei' once lack.
Thy service shall be l»y me paid
To each one «»t' you in j^old
Abundantly ; so be you not utVaid,
For irs tj'uth I swear I told.

A. (^ALVKSTON.

Ca])tain Prichard. Success depends entirely upon

thee.
You lead twelve of the bravest men ;
They shall follow you bravely, you'll see.
And your rewai'd shall be given them
Now, captain and men, we say farewell
Until the time again when }ou leturn ;
Your- adventures may be many to tell.
Now, my good men, we must adjou.ni.

Capt. Priciiaud.

We all thank thee for your confidence
In our expedition, for wishing u.s success
h\ oui' effort ; we shall trust Providence ;

The LiTTLt: Hiu Kokn.

265

When ill diftii'ulty we sluill Ifiiii fuldrfss.

We shall takf lier hum the Sioux

Til y)eace ; it' not, tlien by foice.

We shall tioi listen to their dislikes

Tf they wont he modest ; then, of ccturse,

We shall watch strictly their cunning tricks.

With these few maxims I have spoke,

We shall take immediately our onward departure,

Tf we fail, dcjii't take a shock

And forget all ahout our slaujihter.

We i;o to succeed or lose our lives.

This, my LC»»«)d friend.s, you do understand.

You then must support all our wives

Should we he swept off the land.

CaPT. Ci STKI! 'til'/ A. (iAI.VK.STON fi'^poud ; tlftj

unMir,',; '• \\'>' '<h<ill <l(> if." Then Oapt.

PpjcilAlil) "/^/ h'lx iii''ii ilcpuvt ivit/i

loud r/iefi's.

KND OF SCKSK II. — A("r II.

kScknk IX.— Roi/s fent, where he and Greta Custer
sleeps. (>reta awakes first and leaves tent.
Enter Greta, VyO\-,ayid Capt.
Fkichakd.

Grkta.
He sleeps soundly, I'll him not disturb.
Let him rest while I prepare food,
This T think shall not be absurd
It is all for his own good ;
I shall light a tire just here

266

The Littlk Bi<; Houn.

h I

And propare him a '^mu] l)i.>;ikfftst :

If he's hungry it will him .hfr-r.

It shall br some diuk spread on crust,
Then I'll mash some g(jo(l prairie tea

And sweeten it with hcney thats her*-.

VVIh'ii he awakes surprised hf'I! hr
For all this he said was free ;
Now I think all is quite ready,
T shall go and wake him up,
I must be veiy quiet anti steady,
Ask him gently to come and sup.
i 11 go and awaken Jiim ; lioy, arise
And partake oi food that is ready,
r trust I've not given you surprise,
Tin your cook but not your lady.

Roy.
Where in thunder have you been
That you are up so early, tell me ?

<^RKTA.
My Sioux foes J dreamt T seen.
They were taking me away from thee.

Roy.

Oh, foolish Greta, liave no such fear :
Your foe don't know wheie you stay.
Be not frightened while I'm here
We start for Miners' Camp this day.

G H ETA.

Come then, and dine before we »o :
I have cooked for you all I saw.
Whether you like it 1 don't know,
I cooked it nicely without one flaw.

Thk Lnri-E Vau Hok\. 2*i7

]{OY.

(iretu, I thank voii, irnlfcW, wry imu-li,
For jivvjikeiiiiif^ me up to my Ijn'iikhist ;
You are, iiulred, a clear littl«i witcli.
We'll eat, Urota, then away well haste.
We'll haste l<» the distant Miners' Cmu]k Wi-tli to-
gether,
T beliove I can guide you there :
There you shall meet your father, mother ;
Then for me you shall not eare.

(iHKTA.

You promised to love me last night,

And I acknowledged that love from thee ;

You HOW cast on rae a slight,

Roy, that don't now with me agree.

Roy.

When you Hud your parents you'll forget
Me, for T am poor, of no degree.

(jrRjyrA.
Poverty, no disgrace, alters not our fate,
For I know not if my father's rich ;
If it's true better for you and me
I f thou be faithful, poor or rich,

I have confessed, owned, T loved thee.

Roy.

Pardon me, Greta, I just was fooling,

I can trust you poor or rich,

Greta, sharing with thee my humble dwelling.

My own true love, ray little witch.

Greta, your parents may object to me

268

The Little Big Horn.

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r'j}:

iir v^'

Is ■'' ■ V-

Is t* f' *i '

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1 ■'':fl

1 "■ li

11 ■'•''^

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p[ :

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ff ■' '5 ^

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ill

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Because I'll appear to them very insignificant,
A pool- lad, wanderl'ig, found by thee
Out upon the prairie, my abode a tent.

Greta.

It sluill be otherwise with them, Roy,
On that score you need not have fear ;
They shall greet you frankly, witli joy,
When telling tliem you brought me here
And saved my life from tlie Sioux,
Gave me food, shelter in thy tent,
Satisfying me with food to my likes.
No, ivoy, our marriage they cannot prevent.

KOY.

Greta, for thy years thou hast wisdom,

You have taught me a true lesson ;

My heart for thy love has room

Enough to hold ever, never to lessen.

We have travell "■ now many a day,

Near our destinaiiun T believe we are.

For see I to the far west yonder.

Across the Saguway Valley, a rising cliff,

I'm amazed with surprise and wonder

That our reaching there shall l)e brief.

Look, Gre -^^ I there is coming in our direction

Two sti'angers, what can be the'*' mission?

They see us, undoubtedl}' we're their attraction

Greta, I have for them a great suspicion.

Greta.
Ttiey may be able to direct us
To the Miners' Camp, they're going there,
They would likely know my father, yes,
And tell us if they be thei-e.

The Little Big Horn.

269

Hov.
They are drawing nearer, Greta, let me p|)eak
To them, you'll hear what they say ;
Pernaps they're coming for us to seek,
And go with us on oui' way.

( CitfUt'in Prichard and Lioit. Smifli xji<'al\)

CaPT. PlUCIIAKI).

Strangers, Avherc are you wandering to.
And what are your names and destination
An answer I would like from you,
That we may understand your situation.

KOY.

My name is Hoy, came from Kansas ;

T was enjoying recreation on the prairie,

And it was just by chance

I fell in with this young lady ;

I'll give you her name, Greta Custer.

Capt. Phiciiakd.
Greta Custer, a daughter of Captain Custer,
And niece of gi-eat General Custei- ?
This is welcome news to her parents.
They'll be delighted at her return.
Miss Custer, I have remembnince of thee
At the battle of the Little Big Horn ;
I have no doubt that you remember'me,
I fouffht beside thv father that morn ;
We were taken prisoners by the 8ioux,
That is, your father, mother, and myself ;
We weie rescued from the cruel Sioux,
And chief took thee by thyself,
We knew not where he took thee.

270

The Little Bh; Horn,

N-

'ii

'! ;

ii:

It Uii^ a miners' l);uid rescued us,
Where the miners settled we were free,
We toiled and worked with ; Oh ' yes,
Since then we all made great wealth.
Then came a chief witli Sioux warriors
And demanded thy father and thy mother
To tak(.' them to where you were,
This with them wt; would not consider.
They attacked us, we fought and conquered,
Thus we saved thy father and mother.
Tiic chief told us before he expired
That you were living in his wigwam.
Then thy father proposed sending a rescue
Party to relieve you from his wigwam ;
We are two of that pai'ty of rescuers
That's alive, our comrades are all dead.
AMiere we searched and found you not
We are returning now to Miners' Camp,
We'll guide you there, good friends ;
From here 'tis not a great tramp.
Till our journey be at its end.

Rov.

We'll start soon a.s you are willing.
We are pleased to have met you,
And have for you a kindly feeling
And thy comrades who died so true.

Greta.

Yes, it was all on mv account
That thy ti'ue comrades lost their life,
A great sacrifice to find me out ;
Oh ! I do pity each man's vife.

The LiTiLE Big Horn.

Capt. Prichard.
They'll i»e all provided for, Miss Custer ;
I know thy father'> eminently good, rioli,
And benevolent, will do something for them ;
No misfortune shall ever come to such.

E:dt.

EN'IJ OF ACT III. — .SCKXr-: IV.

271

ACT IV.

ScEXK T. — The /niners' cmnp. Enter Captain and

Mrs. Custer, Greta Custer, Rov, Captain

Prichard and Lieutenant Smith.

(-APT. Cu8TER.

I my dear child, at your retui'n
Thy mother and I are so delighted.
For you, child, we long did yearn ;
Now again with thee we'll be united.

Mrs Custer.

Ci'eta, when y(.)U rest tell your story ;
All that transpired while you were away.
What young man is this, looking sorry.
As if he lost himself one day ?

(tRKTA.

Mother, 1 have found this young man alone.
Out on tiie open prairies in a tent.

1 was then escaping from our Sioux foes ;
He gave me shelter, did them prevent
From capturing me again the second time.
He supplied all my wants with food,
Saying: All I have is thine.

272

The Little Big Horn.

U '

1:'

J. V

iiiii

Tliaiiking him, ] said he was gooil.
Thei) ho inqi 'red what was my name.
I told liim it was (-iri-eta Custer.
Then 1 asked liini what was his name.
He answered me, he was Roy Buster.
What happened after 1 shall tell again.

CaPT. PrK'IIAHI).

Captain Custer, here take this my report.

It shall explain all that's done.

You'll be sorry T lost my escort.

They all fought gallantly, but were undone.

The foe were numerous and fouglit bravely.

Lieut. Smith and myself are only saved.

We saw all our comrades slain savagely ;

Some bodies were buried in a grave.

We had difficulty in making our escape ;

However, we succeeded in concealing ourselves

Till enemy retired, then we crossed a creek,

And commenced our journey to this camp.

While on our way we came across

Your daughter and her companion on tramp.

We conversed with th^em, heaicl their story.

And their names gave us both.

We told them our own in return.

To come with us they were loath.

Finally they consented with us to sojourn.

Now, Captain Custer, 1 have iold you all,

The rest you'll read in my r-eport.

At any time I'll await thy call.

Capt. Custer.
Sir, I liave found you truthful and reliable,
I shall »'ead your report at leisure,

The Little Big Horn.

273

Believing all written there is most corapliable,

And shall give me the greatest pleasure.

Now, I must speak with this stranger,

As you and I can meet again.

Well, my new friend, let us converse.

I was told your name's Roy Buster,

I wish the " B " had been " C " Custer,

Then I could accept thee as my son.

T shall address thee, my friend, Roy.

Roy, 1 want to hear thy account,

I believe you are a truthful l)oy.

In telling me take you no affront.

Roy.
Please, sir, your daughter told the story.
I was merely taking to myself recreation,
Chancing to go to the Western prairie,
Then return home to accept a situation.
Your daughter came, told me her story,
I supplied her with food and protection.
Unable to do more I was sorry.

Caft. Custer.

Young gentleman, hereafter you won't be sorry,
For you shall have her and wealth.
She has told us all her story,
That you saved her life and health.
She is, then, thy own for life.
She informed us the other day she was willing,
So, Roy Buster, make her thy wife.
For thee I shall do the rest.
You bring thy mother here at once.
This shall be, I believe, the best,
18

274

Tut: Little Big Horn.

iNV

Tliat she should not miss the chance
Of witnessing lier son marrying my daughter.
She shall be a witness of great consequence
When she understands all about the circumstance
I shall be prepared for the expense,

Roy.

I thank you, sir, for your kindness,
Such kindness which I never once expected.
I know it was my own lilindness.
She told me this when she accepted,
That you would give me her and wealth.
Now I know her words were true.
That's the time she lost her health.
Then I brought her here to you.
I'll communicate with my mother at once,
Then she'll immediately come away here.
Believing, she will not miss the chance.
So, sir, you need not have fear.

Capt. Custer.

Roy, go prepare for your marriage day,

I have selected a house for thee.

I've done this just, by the way,

To make you both contented and free.

Now, go you about thy business instantly,

I go also to attend my own

I shall bring her to the altar speedily,

Where you shall have her as thy own.

They retire to meet again.

END OF ACT IV.— SCENE I.

Exit.

I i.

Thk Little Big Horn.

275

ScExr: TI. — A drawi)if/-room in General Ciistet^s

House. Enter Captain cmd Mrs. Custeh, Gijeta

CusTEu, Mrs. Buster and Roy Buster.

Capt. Custer.
Roy, you are anxious about thy niotJier'.s arrival,
She ought to arrive within an hour.
To her we must all be civil,
With kind, fraternal greetings on her shower.

Mrs. Custer.

She shall be delighted seeing her son
After the lapse of so many years.
With the many narrow escapes he run,
It shall draw from her eyes tears
Roy, do you think she'll dwell here 1

Roy.
O ! I think she would be satisfied.
Remaining here continually without any fear.
When she arrives she shall be mystified.
When she learns thy kindness to me
She shall love thy daughter and my intended.
And shall be very kind, you'll see,
To you her heart will be extended.

Mrs. Custer.
Peter, attend to the bell, it's ringing.
Roy, I think it is thy mother.
Yes, indeed, Peter, he she is coming,
Let us go to the door, meet her.
Mrs. Buster, we patiently aw^aited thy arrival,
And you have come here at last.
You must be fatigued with your travel.
You must rest till thy weariness is past,

276

The Little Big Horn.

(i •

.; -

, I

1 1

V P

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Mrs. 1)Usti:h.
O! th.ank you, MadfUii, for thy kiiidiifss.
Please V)ring to ni(^ my son Roy.

Roy.

My mother, mother, it is thee ind' cd.
O! what pleasant meetinf(. O! v hat joy.

(/Jis mother embraces fn»), th<")i Rni/ introduces
Captain Custer and his davr/Iiffr to her )

Roy.
Mother, allow me to introduce you to
My benefactor. Captain Custer, and his daughter.
She's to be my wife so true.
And our marriage day takes place hereafter.
It was because T had saved her,
And her parents have rewarded me well,
Giving me her their only daughter dear,
Another time about her I sliall tell.

Mrs. Busthk.
What did T tell thee when leaving
Thy home, that you would make a fortune,
Returning home thy mother to be relieving.
This, my dear boy, you have gotten.

Roy.

Thy explanations came all true,

Tt gave me coui-age on my way.

Thy warning thy memory always did pursue,

And shall continue on from this day.

Gheta.
I am so pleased you have arrived ;
Mrs. Buster we shall need thy assistance.

TnK Little Big Horn.

277

It must not from us be deprived,

You sliall accept Mrs, Buster witliout resistanc<\

For we shall t^ladly take thy advice,

Knowii)f]f that you have experience in arranging'

A marriage littiiig out everything nice,

So as there'll he no more chaniL(ing.

Mrs. Bister,
Greta, I shall do all I can.
In arranging all thy wedding affairs sliortly,
That's if you adhere to my plan,
Greta, which shall not be too costly.

Grkta.
INIrs, Buster don't you mind the e.xpen'^^e.
My father is able to afford it ;
To him he'll think it no consequence,
Fie is wealthy and shall not grudge it.

Mrs. Buster.
Well, Greta, that clianges the matter,
You consult him what expense he desires ;
Do you not think it is better.
It shall please, which is better.

Greta.
Yes, Mrs. Buster, my father's not miserly,
I shall consult him as you say ;
He shall furnish me all things necessary
For comfort and my pleasure every day.

Roy.
Greta, thy father is anxious to get
This marriage over as soon as possible.
So that we can get settled down a bit,
In our new home to live sociable.

sir''"

278 Thk Little Bkj Horn.

Mrs. Bustrr.
I believe what Capt. Custer says,
The quicker tlie marriage is performed 'tis better,
For now we cannot have any delays,
Our friends shall leave soon ot Inter.

Greta.
Well, I'm willing it takes place at once,
Then it shall soon be all over ;
We can have a supper and a dance,
That'8 if the guests all keep sober-.

Hoy.

Not one of our guests shall indulge
In intoxicating liquor. Oh no, Greta, never ;
Don't you this to the guests divulge,
It would put them in a flutter.
Now, we'll go prepare to get married,
All is arranged at the Parson's House,
In a carriage we shall be carried.
For a quiet wedding is our choice.

Exit.

END OF ACT IV. — SCENE II.

Scene III. — A banqueting-hall. Enter Capt. avd

Mrs. Custer. Mrs. Buster welcomes the guests

to the banquet. Theij are introduced to the

Bride and Bridegroom^ after which they

all take of refreshments, followed

by mvsic and speeches.

Capt. Custer,
Ladies and Gentlemen, and all friends,
I thank • hee for thy presence here.

The LiTTLt: Big Horn.

279

This pleasant wedding feast makes all amends,
For the worry and anxiety we had last year :
They are now departini^ for another land,
Where they can spend a happy honey-moon,
So parting from us they shall understand
How anxiously we'll wait their return soon,
To their home in their former town,
Where they shall be v/elcomed by friends,
Friends which they always like to own,
Their well wishes for them all extends.

They all bid farewdl to the Bride and liridegrourn.

Closes Act IV. — !Scene \\\.— Closes the Battle
of the Little Biy Horn.

Kind readers, pardon this composition ;

It was written by a novice who

Witnessed the Battle of Little Big Horn.

And it was written under peculiar circumstances.

CHE 4 NOT REQUIRED