F R E N C II ' S -A.]viERiCA.:Nr i3nA.M:^. 3ri)c Slctina HDition. No. LXXXIII. MY NEIGHBOR'.S WIFE: A F A R C E . I N ONE ACT. An.tPTKK FROM THi; FRKNCH, BY ALFRED BUNN. ESQ. re wnrcii aks added, A Description of the Cottume— Cast of the Characten— Emrancos and Rjcili» Relativ* Positions of the Performers on the Stage, and the whole of the Bt»ga Business. A8 PKRFORMr.D AT ALL THK PRIN'CIPAL THKATRES IN THE UNITED STATES. NEW-YORK: S A ]M U E L FRENCH, I'.M NASSAU-STREET. « :2 « g ir -^ — ■ ;i, 7"j : ^^ ^ /: ^ ^_2 c x c cj W »ir- rt * O" rt ,'f^. _« •E^^^ 'c jl''^ ^ _= X ^ 5^^ rt n £ -i X X « ^ 'Ji O _« K tC /^. r^, .ii « cj 5;?^c i^ ?-; P- Ki M 5 c £ 1 O St ►" o *^ «- Ci 1-^ ' _M ^ - ci >.' ' S >^-2 U 01 .- rt X > u ♦' K %* •SL K "g a * ;§!§-^:^ f • ij »^ «^ ij I I' -be? I- 2- bo SA.Ni'A UAMliAllA :.'] I am very happy, believe me. I love my Somerton just as he is, with all his good qualities and all his failings ; I never find fault with the friends of my husband, and prefer that he should be polite and attentive to all who visit us — even to you, my dears ! Mrs. B. ) T, , . i)/ry.6'm,7A.rous! Mrs. Somer. To be sure, for you know you are both very handsome. Mrs. B. Oh ! Mrs. Smith. Oh ! — You are too kind. Mm. Somer. Notwithstanding we are neighbors, you might be dan- gerous rivals. But I have no fear of j'ou. Mrs. B. You have no reason. Mrs. Smith. No, none. Mrs. Somer. Of course not ; at the same time, I defy you, with all your charms and all your esprit, to make him inconstant. And, as friends and neighbors, I must speak very frankly to you, and tell you that instead of troubling yourselves so much about what is going on in my house, you should look a little more to your own. [Asnlc] They won't easily get over that. ICrosses to r Mrs. B. ) „ , Mrs.Smzth.^ ^Too«r.? Mrs. B. What can she mean ? Mrs. Smith. Why, my dear Mrs. Somerton, what are you thinking about 1 Mrs Somer. Oh, nothing of any moment, or certainly — I most sin cerel}^ wish your husbands may always be faithful to you. [^Significantly Mrs. B. But, my dear Mrs. Somerton, if you really know anything, you ought to tell us. Mrs. Smith. Pray speak out. Mrs. Somer. Oh, bless you, I know nothing — at least nothing posi- tive, nothing more than — you know about vty husband ; therefore, my dear good people, suppose we change the subject. What are you both going to do to-night ! Mrs. B. Oh. I'm going home, to be sure ' Mrs. Smith. So am I. Mrs. Somer. And 1 shall sup with Mr. Somerton. [Goes up to tabu, ft. Mrs. B. And I with my dear Timothy. 6 MY NEIGHBOR S WIFE. Mrs. Smith. And I with my beloved Jonathan. Mrs. Somer. Well, a good appetite, and a good supper. [Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Smith are about to go, when Mrs. Someb- TON stays them. But, I say — suppose by any chance, your husbands should net coino home ' Mrs. B. [Vehemently.'] What? Mrs. iSinith. [Confide Hi hj.] That is quite impossible. [Going. Mrs. Somcr. Well — I onlv said "suppose," and if they do not, you will find a knife and fork ready for you here. Mrs. B. You are very kind. Mrs. Smith. But don't make yourself uneasy, we shall have no reason to do that. Mrs Somer. I hope not ; however, you will find a hearty welcome ; for I bear you no grudge, you see, for your attacks upon poor Somer- ton's fidelity. Mrs. B. Oh ! it's all nothing but neighbor's gossip. Adiey ! Mrs. Smith. Good night, my dear. Mrs. Somer. Good bye, and don't forget ; here's a plate for you, if you like to come back. [Crosses to r., as they go up. Mrs. B. Ha, ha ! [Aside, as going out ] Poor thing ! She knows her husband is gone out gallavanting. [Exeunt, c. and r. Mrs. Somer. There they go, a couple of poor silly dupes. I've put them in a bit of a fume, however ; and it serves them right for coming "and abusing my husband to my face. Thank P'ortune, I'm not at all jealous, but I should like to revenge myself on these worthy people, for trying to make me so ; and there could not be a better opportunity, for these two identical husbands have each written me a love letter. Now, the idea of two such fellows, with two such names as Jonathan Smith and Timothy Brown — the one a stock-broker of five-and-thirty, the other a tailor of forty — daring to write billct-dou.x to their neighbor's wife, is quite provocation enough — my husband is ^one out to dinner, and was to have gone to the city ball afterwards, but I begged him to come home at eight to a minute ; and, that we may keep the jest among ourselves, and not be the talk of the city, I have prudently given the servants a holiday, so that when Charles comes back, I must let him in myself, and I hope I shall be better able to answer than my neighbors for conju- gal punctuality. {,-1 knnckivg heard.] There he is, I'm sure. [Runs ojj at c. and r., returning with Somekton Somcr. My dear, why did you open the door yourself — where are the servants 1 Mrs. Somer. Never mind, they are all out. Somer. All out 1 ' Mrs. Somer. Yes, yes; but I thank you, my dear Charles, for com ing home thus in good time. Somcr. It was your wish, my Caroline, and that was quite enough for me to obey it ; but Mrs. Somcr. But — but — I hope it has not put you out of your way. Somcr. Not at all, my dear ; but I should, notwithstanding, like to MV NKIGIIBOR S WIFK, 1 know why you have pressed me so urgently not to go to this ball, and to come home exactly at eight. Mrs. iSonier. You must lirst of all promise me faithfully that you will not lly in a passion with me, or be angry with any one else ; but have a hearty laugh at what I'm going to tell you. Somcr. That's as it may happen. Mrs. Somcr. And that if you are determined to have revenge upon any one, you'll let me have the management of it. Somer. I don't much like this opening. Mrs. Somer. Well, you promise me ail this 1 Somcr. Well, well, I will. Mrs. Somcr. Agreed, then. [7aking a later out of one of the pockets of her apron.'} Read that letter. [GiviJiff -it to Somertqn. Somcr. \_Reading the letter.'] "Adorable Caroline,]" — whatl — who is this impudent scoundrel 1 Mrs. Somer. You forget your promise, Charles, and are in a passion already — come, read on. Somer. [Rcadmg'.'\ " Adorable Caroline. — Your derision and cruelty have preyed upon my heart, and caused it the deepest anguish. I am most anxious to tell you all I feel before I fly from you for ever ; and as your husband is going this evening to the citj' ball, grant me the delight- ful favor of an interview. If I do not receive an answer from you, I will be under your window a little after eight, and will clap my hands three times as a signal, to let you know I am there ; when I hope you will not refuse to receive the last farewell of your disconsolate — Timo- thy." Timothy 1 What ! Timothy Brown, the broker, my next door neighbor 1 Mrs Somcr. The very man ! Somcr. Why, the impudent vagabond — with his mild manners and placid countenance ! But there is no trusting to appearances. Mrs. Somcr. But this is not all, my dear Charles — read this I \_Tahing another letter out of the other jtocket, and giving it him. Somer. Another 1 Mrs. Somer. Yes : but pray make hnste and read. Somer. [Jicad.mg.] " Incomparable and inexorable beauty ! I am above all duplicity, and prefer candidly and at once opening my heart, rather than adopting any circuitous method. Since I lirst knew you I have almost ceased to know myself, and my heart will break unless I can relieve it by a personal confession ; I. therefore, implore you to grant me an interview. I understand j'our husband is goinp- to the citv ball to-night. About a quarter after eight, you will hear under your window the sound of my flute, and if you will only deign to open it, it will convince me you are not inflexible. I .shall bring with me some nice things for a quiet supper, which I have expressly ordered from Birch's, as a slight proof of the devotion of your attached — Jonathan." What ! that damned tailor, my other next-door neighbor. Why. the tailor is even more impudent than the broker ! Mrs. Somer. Now, is it not much better to laugh at these coxcombs, than to fly in a passion with them 1 Somer. But what do you propose 1 8 MY neighbor's wife. Mrs. Somcr. First of all, that you go out. Homer. What ! Go out! Mrs. Somer. That is indispensable : and as soon as you are gone I will receive them. Somcr. But you must explain. Mrs. Somcr. I will receive them, and then Somcr. And then ! What then ! Mrs. Somcr. [Taking a book from lady's work fable, and giving it to SoMERTON.] Here take this volume, it is La Fontaine, and at the bottom of this page, [j)ointing with her finger] you will read all I want you to do. Somirton. [Glancing over tV.] Oh, I understand — I take, and will follow implicitly your instructions. Mrs. Somer. It's settled then! Somer. Quite. [Three claps of the hand are heard, K.] That's the broker to a certainty. Mrs. Somer. And to his time. Somer. Then I'll slip down the back staircase. [SoMERTON goes out at the door, r. 1 k. Mrs. Somer. Now then to receive my beaux — but I must first set myself all in apple-pie order ; [goiiig to the glass'] for, notwithstanding we despise people, we ought always to appear before them to the best advantage. [Arfannrng herself before the glass, and speaking.] Mrs. Somerton, I think you are looking very well to-night. [A knock, r. u. i.] I'm coming. There's nothing like keeping one's lover in a little sus- pense. [Knock again.} Coming, coming. Bless me, he's very impatient. There, now I'm all right : and now for opening the door. [Kyiock agaiti. She goes off, c. and r., rcturiiing with Mr. Brown. Oh, it's you, Mr. Brown. Brown. At last, my cruel Caroline, I behold you. I almost feared you would refuse mc admittance. Mrs. Somcr. What! Do you tliink yourself so very dangerous then ! Brorvn. Not that ; but you can, I hope, make some allowance for the feelings of an anxious lover. Mr.s. Somcr. You must not talk in that manner ; for if any o!ie should overhear you — [Sound of afiule is heard undrr the windmr, l. 2 E. Brown. Why that's a flute, and very like the tune that our neighbor Smith is so per(jctually playing. Mrs. Somer. The very same. [Aside] And the signal mentioned in his letter. [Opens the window, then says to Brown.] He's coming to spend the evening with us. Broxrn. With u.s ! Oli, Caroline I Caroline, this is cruel of you. Mrs. Somcr. Cruel, indeed : why, what do you take me fori In the absence of my husband, to remain alone with a man ; and [snceringbj'] Ruch a captivating young man as you, Mr. Brown 1 Oh. no, I couW not think of such a thing. Brown. Then this is only to save appearances. Mrs. Somcr. Oh, nothing more. MT NEIGHBOR S WIFE. 9 Brown. [Aside.] Well then I must put up with it; but it is devilish nnpleasant for all that. Enler Smith on tiptoe, xcilh a flute in one hand, and carrying in the other a basket with sundry provisions. Smith. ILookini^ in.] The door left open ; it is evident then she ex- pects me. Are you alone, my pretty Caroline 1 [Advances. Mrs. Sonier. Oh, no; Mr. Brown is here — come on purpose to keep us company. Smith, (r.) Brov^n ! Brown, (l.) At your service — if I can be of the slightest use to you. Smith. Certainly, I'm delighted. [Aside.] The devil take him, say I. [To Mrs. Somerton.] When is he going ! I suppose he does not sup with usi Airs. Somer. To be sure he does. [Alternatety to one and the other."] My husband, you know, has gone to the city ball to-night ; and I stay at home with two of his friends ; if I was with one only, they might raise ill reports of me : but with two even slander itself can say nothing. Smith. Oh, certainly ; you are very right. [Aside.] This fellow Brown is invited I see, as a sort of go-between, and cloak to cover our proceedings : luckily, he is a great fool, and I can turn him about to my purpose as I please. Brown. This damned fellow, Smith, is always in the way Smith. My dear friend — glad to see you. [2'o Beown. Brown You are very kind. Smith. Come, make yourself yseful, and help m6 to open my provi- sion store. Mrs. Somer. Ay, so do. and here's a table nearly ready to receive all. Smith. [To Brown.] Well, prepare the table for some of Birch'n ▼ery best. [Aside to Mrs. Somerton.] You beauty, I adore you more than ever. Mrs. Somer. Are you mad 1 Smith. Yes I am. and you have made me so. Mrs. Somer. Be quiet— hold your tongue. [He advances up the stase. Brown. [Leaving the table and coming on down the l. side of Mrs. Somerton.] What is that he is saying to youl — Is he making love to you! Mrs. Sontcr. Quite the contrary ; he is telling me I ought to listen to you. Brown. Oh I then it's all right I Mrs. Somer. [Going to the table.] The knives and forks are wanted. I'll go for them in the next room, and at the same time order coffee and liqueurs to be got ready. Brown. Pray do not trouble yourself Smith. She's right ; it's all the fashion now^ "s^ [Mrs. Somerton goes out at door, r. 1 k. — Smith is about lofollaic her.] Brown. [Fulliug him back by the coat tail.] Isn't she a delightful creature ? Qmith. What aro ycni talking abowt! 10 MY KEIGHBOr's wife. Brown. \As Sjiith is agaiii about tofoHow Mr. Someuton, takes him by the arm, and brings him forjvard ] Now, my dear fellow, you can help me in a most essential manner with her. t^initk. Help you i Brown. And if you will rely on my gratitude Snuih. Why, my friend, I thhik you are out of your mind. Brown. How ] iiniith. Why, I calculated on you to plead my cause with Mji Komerton Brown. On me 1 Smilli. That is, if you wish to preserve my good opinion. Brown. You love her, then 1 Smith. That I do. Brown. So do I, a hundred times more than you do I Smith. You fellow I — love her I — I'd hai-e j'ou to know [^Follows him to t. Broken. And I'd have you to know — if, sir, you have the audacity only to think [Follows him to r. Mrs. Somcr. [Withoitf.^ Now, then, here they are Smith. She's coming ; so pray he silent hefore her. Enter Mrs. Somekton, p. 1 e. Mrs. Somer. Now, gentlemen, to supper. Both. Aye, to supper ! Brown. I shall have an eye on that fellow. \_Asidc Smith. \_Aside.'\ I shan't lose sight of you, Mr. Brown, I promise you. Brown. Smith, my dear fellow, give me your liand — a thousand thanks ! Smith. Why, what's the man thanking me for] 3Irs. Somer. Why, for the handsome supper to which you have invited him. Smith. It is not to me, but yourself, my dear Mrs. Somerton, to whom ail thank.sare due. Mrs Somcr. Oh, no ! to you. Brown. To you both — you, my charming madam, [To Mrs. Somer- ton] and you, my good friend — to you both. Smith. The man's a fool! [Going to tabic — Mns Somerton sits at talk, with Brown 07i her right hand, and Smith on her left handl Mrs. Somcr. Well, really, this is delightful— by the eide of those \vc love, and opposite to those we esteem — surely man can desire no more! Brown. After all, I flatter myself I am the man. [Aside. Mrs. Somcr. Now, gentlemen, pray help yourselves. Brown. 1 will first propose a toast — " Here's to the beautiful Caro lifio." Smith. *' To the bcauti'ul "Caroline ;" — the rascal there has got the start of me. [As they arc about to fill their glasses, a hnorking is heard U)Uhout, R ] Mrs. Somcr. Bless me, who can be knocking at thi.s hour • MV neighbor's wife. 11 Brown. It's very odd Smith. And very unpleasant. Somcr. [ Wil/ioiit.] (>aroline, my dear, open the door to me. J/;s. Somer. It's my husband ! I'm lost! Brown. I wish I was Smith. I'm a dead man. Mrs. Somer. But what's to he done! — hide yourselves, in mercy'i sake t Smith. It's very well to say hide, but where ! [Rises. Mrs. Somer. \_Pointinrj to the chamber, i,.] There, in that little closet — make haste — I'm hnlt' dead. [/« a loud voice.'\ Coming, Charles, coming, mj' dear. [7'o Bkown and Smith.] Keep eilent or we're ruined. They enter door of the closet, as she goes off, c, and lets in Somkkton. Somer. [Advancing.'] This is not very kind treatment, my dear, to keep me waiting in this manner. Mrs. Somer. Don't be angry, Charles ; the fact is, I did not expect you home so early. Broicn. [hi chamber ] How her voice trembles. Smith. \_In chamber^ Enough to make it. Mrs. Somer. [la a low voice, and pointing to the closet.] There they aic. Somcr. Capital. [Alovd.] I don't intend, my dear, to go to this ball to-night. Brown \ and ^Oh I [A sort of mutual groan. Smith. ) Somer. What noise is that, love ? Mrs. Somer. I heard nothing [Both scarcely able to smother their laughter. Smith. [To Brown ] Don't breathe, or we're dead men. Brown. I'm dumb. Somer. [Looking at Ike table.] You don't appear to have been very disconsolate at my absence, my dear, to judge by the display on your table — patties, lobsters, tarts, jellies, wine Mrs. Somer. Why, yes, my dear — and no — why, that is Somcr. That is what, my dear1 Mrs. Somer. Why. I had invited two ladies, our next-door neigh- bors. Somer. What ! Mrs. Smith 1 Smith. My wife I Mrs. Samer. And Mrs. Brown. Brown. My wife ! Smith. Leave these women alone for getting out of ) a scrape. V [Inside chamber. Broken. And perhaps for getting us into one. J Somer. So, my dear, you have invited two neighbors'! I'm very glad to hear of it. Run in, love, and fetch them, and say that supper is ready, and we are waiting foi them. 12 MY NEIGHBORS WIFE. Mrs. Somer. I'll step in at once Somcr. Ay, do. Mrs. Somer. And bring them in instantly. ^5 she goes out at d. f., Somerton layt another knife andjork, and puts the table in order. i>mith. My wife will not conic, I'm sure. IiToicn. ]Nor mine either, for she expects me home. Homer. There, that will do ; I shall sit here, between Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Brown, and my wife opposite to me. [Goes ttp the stage, brings doicn his pistols, and loads them. >imilh. Well, he's taking it very coolly. Svmer. I'm not altogether comfortable in my mind, for when I came in, it struck me that my wife looked extremely embarrassed Brown. But what is he doing there 1 Smilh. 1 don't know — I'll peep through the "key-hole. Why, as I'm alive, he's loading his pistols. Brown. Then he has certainly seen us. Smith. Hold your tongue, Brown, or he'll stop it for you. Somer. [Talking to himself but lovd enough to be heard iy Brown and Smith.] And a thought came into my head, that if she could — but that is impossible, for I am sure she loves me : besides, she well knows that if I were to surprise any man here at this hour, if he were the dearest friend I have on earth, I'd blow his brains out on the spot. [He is pacing the stage, and stops by the little closet uherc Brown and Smith are concealed, as he says the latter part of the sentence: they bob down their heads at his approach — he then seats himself bit the table. '\ Smith- [Lijlrng up his head.] Did you hear what he said ? Brown. Yes : but it won't bear repeating. Somer. I'll load them both with a couple of bullets. Thank Fortune, that touch of jealousy was but momentary ; I have no right to suspect my Caroline — and at this moment I ought to be especially grateful to her for inviting our two neighbors, particularly one of them, who is the most amiable and delight lul woman on earth. Smith. That's my wife I Brmcn. No ; mine. Somer. And I have been in love with her for a long time without daring to tell her so Smith. If he's in love witli iier, it is yours. Brown. No ; yours. Somer. However, .to-day I feel a little more nerve and impudence in my composition, and I'll contrive some opportunity of declaring myself — so, my next door neighbor, I'd advise you to be on the look out. Now, let us put these out of harm's way in the closet. [lie goes lov-ard the closet, n., and is about to open it. Smith. He is coming liere I Brown. Then we are a brace of dead men. Mrs. Bomcr. [Ouisidc.] Come, my dear friends, thje way — thi» ■n ay Porter Oh thr. charrn'rs Here thcr com« ' MY neighbor's wife. IS Puis his pistols in a chair, and goes off c. and a., Brown (ind Smith cautiously open the closet door, and peep out. Brown. At present we arc well out of that I Smith. Yes ; if he don't come back. Every bit of my skin is like poose's flesh. [They retreat. Enter Mrs. Somerton, with Mrs. Brown t« one hand, and Mas. Smith VI the other. Smncr. Ladies, most welcome ! Mrs. B. Good evening, Mrs. Somerton. Brown. That's my wife — the coquette I Mrs. Smith. Mr. Somerton, your most obedient. Smith. And that's mine — the monster ! Mrs. Somer. My dear Charles, our friends hesitated coming, for a moment, for fear of displeasing their husbands, but I assured them you would plead their cause before them. \r (.■' •,!. t And we have only come on that condition. Mrs. Smith. } •' Somer. Willingly, most willingly — I was going to the city ball to-nicht. but I feel no regret at having abandoned its attractions, since it has procured me the pleasure of passing the evening with you. Will you allow me to offer you a hand ? Takes Mrs. Brown iw one hand, and Mrs. Smith in the other, aiid places them at the table on each side of himself — Mrs. Somerton opponUe. Smith. Whv, they arc going to eat up my supper I Brown. And I am dying with hunger. Somer. [Taslntrf the pate and recommending it.'\ This pat6 is ex- cellent, J assure j-ou. Smith. It ought to be, it cost me half a guinea. Somer Will you allow me the pleasure, charming Mrs. Smith? Brown. Did you hear that ? [^siJe.] Poor Smith ! Mrs. Somer. My dear Charles, I am the only one you have forgotten. Somer. True, my love, but hospitality to our friends made me for a moment forgetful. [Thcij drink, help each other, and seem to enjoy their supper. Brown. I don't hear a word. Smith. How the devil can they speak when all their mouths are chuck full ? Brown. I should like, at all events, to see what they're about. Smith. There's a window, let us get up on the table. They put vp a table agai7ist the door, and two chairs on the table, then open the small window, at which they occasionally appear and disappear, the Audience seeing what they arc doing through the large front window. Somer. Well, really, this is one of the roost delightful evenings I •v«r enjoyed 14 Mv neiohbor's wife. Mrs. Smith. And, and to tell you the truth, it's very pleasant now and then to be away from the restraint of one's husband. Smith. [At the window.'] Very, no doubt. Mrs. B. And to enjoy a friend's society without any low and vulgar suspicions. Brcicn. Very pleasant truly. I say, the supper smells nice, don't it I tSmith. Your wife seems to think so, for she's making a tolerable good example of it. Brown, have an eye to your wife. Brown. Smitli, have an eye to j'our forehead. Somer. My dear Caroline, we ought to be obliged by your kind attention and good supper, but it seems to me there is one thing still wanting. Mrs. Somer. What is that, Charles 1 Somcr. Why I dare say our iriends would like one glass of Cham- pagne just by way of a wind up. Mrx. Somer. Very true, Charles. Mrs. B. Champagne ! we have some capital Champagne, at home — bat my husband, a niggardly fellow, always locks it up, and never offers any one a drop ; if 30U will wait a minute, I'll run in and fetch two or three bottles. Brown. Precious little devil I Smith. Hold your tongue, man. Somer. You shall not go alone ; allow me to escort you. Brown. Why the icllow offers his arm to my wife. Mrs. Somer. By no menus, 1 will go with you, my dear Mrs. Brown, and Charles shall stay and keep iMrs. Smith company. Smith. So much the better, then she'll be under my own eye. Mrs. B. Come along, my dear, we'll be back in a moment ; but mind, my husband must know nothing about it. They go off' at c. v., follo2ced to the door iy Somkuton and Mnt. Smith. Brown. The baggage — I'll murder her. Pokes his body half out of (he window, and is pulled back by S.mith, an action they allernaltly repeat, vnlil So.meuton and Mrs. S.mith have advanced. Smith. Be quiet, Browti. Brown. I'll be the death of her. Smith. We shall be the de.Uh of one another, if you don't be silent. Somer. At length, my dear Mrs. Smith, we are alone. Mrs. Smith. And what then, my dear sir ' Somer. What, can you not guess ! Mrs. Smith. No. Smith. Why. what the devil is going to happen nowl Brown. Hush! be quiet. Smith. Do you see Somerton whispering to your wifel Smith. Whispering proves nothing. Somer. \ Oouiir 7iear(r to 'S\ks. Smith.] I have sought this delightful titt-a-tHc for many a long day past. MT NEIGHBOR S TVIFE. 15 Mrs. Umith. [Drawirig^ herself np.'] Sir, do you know to whom you are addressing yourtelf! Smith. That's a settler for him. \_Aside at window. Somer. To the most beautiful, mos; adored, yet most cruel of her sex. Mrs. Smilh. You greatly astonish rae — this is the first time you ever Samcr. If my lips have been silent, surely my looks must have made you acquainted with this passion, that will end only with my life. 3Irs. Smith. Pray think no more of me — remember I'm married. Smith. Charming creature — isn't she. Brown 1 , Somcr. Oh, I know that ; but to whom 1 — a fellow not capable of appreciating your numerous attractions — a low person altogether un- worthy of your matchless beauty and innumerable charms. Smith. What's that he says. Brown : Brown. Be silent, I tell you. Mrs. Smith. My husband is certainly very inattentive sometimes. Somcr. To be sure he is — a scoundrel! Mrs. Smilh. Often absent from home. Somer. Abominable I Mrs. Smith. And I must admit his manners are not particularly polished. Broicn. I say. Smith — she seems to have studied you pretty well. Smith. I'll poison her — my manners, indeed I Mrs. Smith. And he has not much of the man of fashion about him. Somer. He's a positive lout. Srnith. I'll poison her. Mrs. Smith. But still he is my husband, and I ought Somer. You ought only to think of a love the most tender, and the most impassioned. Behold me, dearest, at your feet. Mrs. Smith, llise, pray. Smilh. ^ and > On his knees I Broiun. S Mri. Smith. [Aside.] Poor Mrs. Somerton, wlio was so sure of her dear Charles' heart, and defied us to make him inconstant. Somcr. What says, my love — my darling? Mrs. Smith. Oh nothing — nothing — rise, pray, pray — leave me ! Smith. The abominable creature ! She's giving way. Brown. It's like 'em all — except Mrs. Brown. Sorner. [Kissing her hand.] You divine creature, grant me one favor — my ilemahd is not a very exorbitant one — give me this boquet, here in your bosom, as a pledge of your affection. [He takes a boquet out of her bosom Mrs. Smith. Pray — pray leave me. Smith. There, he has taken her boquet. 3Irs. Somertiin [Outside] Come along, give me one of the bottle«. Somer. They are coming back. Broicn. High time, eh, Smith ! Srniih. I'm sufTocated ; I shall choke with ra^e. 16 MT neighbor's wife. [During the whole of this scene, Bnowff had been pulling back Shitb by the coat, who was putting his head out too forward. Mes. Brown, entering with Mrs. Somebton, c. 3frs. B. Here they are, and we have picked out a couple of the very best in the cellar. [They all sit again at table.'] That's right, my dear; that's just how I always serve Mr. Smith. Smith. [At window.] Oh. dear! oh, Lord ! Somer. Well, now we've got his wine, we had better make use of it; and the least we can do is to drink Brown's good health. AIL With all my heart — here's Brown's health ! Mrs. B. TimJthy Brown, your very good health. Brown. [At window.] Thank ye, and be d — d to you. Oh, my very best Champagne ! Somcr. It's really excellent ; and as long as we haven't Brown's com* pany, the more of this sparkling champagne we have, the more agree- able. Brown. You're very good. Somer. And now, allow me to propose Mr. Smith's health. [ They drink Mrs. Somer. Now suppose we go in the next room, and take a cup of coffee 1 [ They rise. Somer. A very good idea. Ladies, allow me to offer you each a hand. Mr.s. Somcr. Aye, and do follow me. [Mrs, SoMERTONfofs out a! door, r. 1 y.., followed by So.mf.rton, between Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Brown. As soon as they are gone. Brown and Smith get down, and replace the chairs and table, which they had placed against the doors. 7' hey then come out, and par.e the stage in a. Juriou$ manner. Smith. Perfidious woman I who would ever have thought it ? Brown. My dear fellow, don't run about in this manner; becalm, and let us talk it over. [Pacing the stage furiously. Smith. I'm half mad, Brown. Brown. No wonder — so would I be, if I were you. Smith. It's monstrous. Broicn. Infamous — shocking — ha, ha, ha I Smith. What the devil are you laughing at? Brown. My dear fellow. I'm not laughing; it's an hysterical sympathy with your situation. [Aside] Poor Smith! Who was so sure of the virtue! of his wife. Upon my soul, I can't help laughing if I were to dia for it. [To S.MiTH.] Pray pardon me; but I really cannot help it. [Noise, E. 1 E. Smith. Hush — somebody's coming ! Help to replace the chairs and [They replace them. Brown. Pshaw ! 'Tis all fancy. So suppose, now. while they are It their coffee in the next room, we bit down here and pick a bit» and take the liberty of making fres with aoino of my o«vn dear wiao. Smi!\ Thank you, I'm no' hungry MY neighbor's wife. 17 Brown. But I am ; for I've had nothing to take away my appetite ; and really this pat6 of yours, Smith — [He goes to the table, cuts a bit of the pale, and is just about to cat, ivhcn the door opens.] By all the saints in the calendar, here's my wife coming ! [He hides under the table. Smith. His wife I \_He hides himself behind the easel, on which a picture is. Enter Mrs, Brown, speaking as. the enters the door, e. 2 k. Mrs. B. Now do allow me, while you are finishing your coffee. I'll go and clear the supper table, and put all in order. [Coming foi~ward.'\ Well, I must confess that Mrs. Smith is a terrible flirt. " Smith. [Behind easell There's no doubt whatever of that. Mrs. B. What looks she has been glancing toward Somerton. I really blushed for her. Brown. [Putting out his head from under the table.} My dear little wife, I'd give you a kiss if I dared. Mrs. B, At the same time, I must confess that Somerton is very agreeable, and also that he has Broken. Not so fast, ma'am, if you please. • Smith. They are birds of a featlier, that's evident. Mrs. B. He has also a fine figure, and a good expression of counte nance. Brown. [Putting his head out.^ It's a damned lie I Somerton steals softly in at r. 2 e. Mrs. B. But I cannot understand how he could have such bad taste as to make love to Mrs. Smith, a woman altogether so unworthy of him ; that is a ttiing I really never can forgive him for. Smith. Nor I either Somer. [Touching Mrs. Brown's shoulder.] What, still inflexible. Mrs. B. [Starting.] Oh, Mr. Somerton ! you quite frighten me. Somer. Fear ! Oh, fear is not the sentiment with which I would inspire you ! Smith. [Popping his head from behind the easel, at the same time that Brown puts his head from under the table, and seems in a violent rage.] It's your turn now, Brown. Mrs B. [To Somerton. J I suppose you think you are addressing Mrs. Smith! Somer. Mrs. Smith ! I detest her very name — I cannot endure the sight of her ; and if I seemed to pay her any particular attention, it was only to divert the thoughts of one who knows too well who is the object of my affection. Mrs. B. I really do not understand you, sir ! Somer. The moments are preciou.^ — only say that some day you will bless my vows — name some time when I may hope, and till then, give me some slight token of one I lan never cease to love — promise me this, sdorable woman ! Broxon. Familiar raspal I Smith. This is worse than what he said to Mrs. Smith. Somer. What, silent ! dearest one ! then give me this bracelet, twined 18 Mv neighbor's •wife. around your arm. [takes I'-acdcl from her arm.'] Mrs B. Oh ! pray givo it me back, [here Brown shakes his fiat at her.'\ If niy husband were but to see it ! Brnwn. He must be damned biind if he didn't ! Somcr. Oh ! don't think of him — dear, kind creature ! give mei but one kiss. Mrs. B. Sir I really, sir — this audacity- Somcr. There's no harm, dear, in a kiss, igives her several kisses, against which she slightly struggles.'^ Smith, [chuckling.] How they sound ! Brown. The traitoress ! Mrs.' B. [struggling with Somkrton.] Oh, if my husband were to hear him. Smith. He must be damned deaf if he don't. [Mas. Brown gets away from him loith some difficulty, and runs into the chamber, r, 1 e.] Somcr. She is a charming creature ! and I decidedly give her the preference. iSmith. I'm glad of it — the scoundrel ! Brown. Oh ! the blackguard ! Somer. However, they are both derilish nice girls, and will answer one's purpose very well to pass an hour or two with now and then-^ altogether, we've had a delightful evening, and I must now go and put by my pistols, which I had quite forgotten, [goes arid lakes pistols off thi chair.} Oh, Mr. Smith, Mr. Brown ! — Mr. Brown, Mr. Smith, 1 strongly suspect I shall give you both a violent headache ! [Exit into closet, a I e. BrovJti. [looking ffut.] Pheugh ! — where is he gone 1 Smith, [peeping on one .lide of the glass.} Hold your tongue ; there he is with those damned pistols again. Here Somerton closes xtp the window, goes toivards the door, n. 2 E., poiiiting laughingly at the table, and exit. Smith, [peeping out.] Brown I Brown, [looking up.} Smith I Smith. We are a pretty couple. Brown. Very. Give me your hand, [they come out and embrace each olhcr.} Smith. Oh, Mr.s. Brown ! Brown. Oh, Mrs. Smith I Smith. Oh, that bracelet ! Brown. Oh, that bouquet I Brmcn. \ ^forcing a laugh.] Ha, ha, ha ! Smith. It's exceedingly droll. B'own. And extremely pleasant. Smith. But I'll be revenged. Brown. Brown. And so will I. Give me your hand ; we'll have a mutual al- liance, and come to a determination to take ample revenge. Smith. Let ub embrace again [fhey embrace.} Now, my mind'^j made up, MY NKIGIIBOR S WIFE. 19 Brown. 1 was beginning to despair, but I'm nerved again — we'll treat them exactly as they deserve. iSrnith. The idea of mai (•TiM/ir.Sc 1 \ i Tfin