, A^ Al L/J m = =^ JJ = =^=^ 3= ^s , ■. 3 = == ^ 4 E -^— >> ^ = =^=^= '— 1 = ■y ^ / = 9 i 9 1 = 5 i THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES SANDOUKT t 7- OR FIRST MARTYR ^ OF ARMENIA | :== I A Melodrama in Five Acts ^ Ig^mOriginally from Armenian) || ™ Reproduced from memory ^jj by Ij H. Y. Kabadayan |' of Smyrna, Turkey \ > ^SANDOUKT OR. FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA A MELO-DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS (Originally from Armenian) REPRODUCED FROM MEMORY i BY H. Y. KABADAYAN OF SMYRNA, TURKEY PRICE, T\^ENTY-FIVE CENTS DETROIT, MICH. 1902 i^ yyT^^^C^f^i^^^^-^^ (jOHN BRAVES. K INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. According to the traditional history of early Armenian christians, Sanadroog was the king of Armenia in the first century A. D., his dominion extending East over Parthia, in the South over Northern Persia and Assyria, in the North and West over the Major portion of Asia Minor. His grandfather Abcarus — who ruled Armenia, then a tributary country to the Roman empire at the time Jesus lived and preached in Judea — hearing of the persecutions that the Jews were raising against a miracle performing Christ, sent two messengers t^i Him with urgent invitation to leave Palestine for Armenia and cure him from his leprosy. This "Two messengers" story is corroborated by the scriptural statement in one of the Gospels that two strangers were wishing to see Christ outside of the temple. Christ did not go to Armenia but promised the messengers to send two of his disciples — Thaddeus and Bartholomew — after His resurrection. During the 30 years of the peaceful reign of King Abcarus many schools were founded and Grecian ideas and philosophy pervaded the scholarly minds. This king made an unsuccessful attempt to adopt Christianity for national religion owing to determined opposition and enmity of Armenian nobles. Through his efforts christian churches were erected or heathen temples converted to christian houses of wor- ship. This, however, did not last long. Soon after his death the nation succumbed again to idolatry and the germs of early Christi- anity were entirely eradicated from the country. Sanadroog, soon after ascending to the throne, showed all the qualifications of a stern and mighty ruler. He restored the lost prestige of the crown over the feudal states of a much-harassed country. With all his intelligence and power he tenaciously adhered to pagan worship of heathen gods. It was during the reign of this king that Thaddeus — one of Christ's apostles — came to Armenia and began to preach the gospel. Sana- droog's wife secretly became a christian and she trained her only daughter in the new faith, 'i'he story of first christian martyrdom and the accompanying events are faithfully described in the following pages. H. V. K. 15SJ72J2,3 CHARACTERS IN THE PLAY. Sanadroog King- of Armenia Sandoukt His Daughter and Heiress to the Throne Nouvart Sandoukt's Friend and Counsellor's Daughter Thaddeus One of the Twelve Disciples of Christ Yervant General of Armenian Army and Sandoukt's Lover Shavarsh King's Counsellor \ ahram King's Courier or Messenger Phestus Chief Priest at the Temple of Diana Armen Keeper of the Prison Soldiers, Executioners and People. Time, 60-70 A. D. SANDOUKT OR FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. ACT I. Scene — The Royal Palace Facing the Field of Vasbouragan. SANADROOG AND THADDEUS. SANADROOG. — What are all these unfavorable reports I hear about you, Thaddeus. Are you ready to answer the charges of my people against you for propagating a ridiculous religion, with hum- blest origin, started by a Jew away out in Judea? THADDEUS. — Verily I see heavens opened and future revealed of Armenia. Here, before you, O Sanadroog, once again I proclaim the eternal truth of a living God ! Invisible to mortal eyes He forges the destinies of mankind. What are kings and kingdoms of this earth, but dwarfs, as compared with the universal power of the God whom I preach and who reigns supreme. SANADROOG.— (Scornfully) I would like to meet that God. Before I put this sword back into its sheath I challenge your God. The gory blood of the Persian king is still fresh on the battlefield, and the scattered thousands of surrounding nations will yet tremble to look at this glittering crown and this glistening sword. THADDEUS. — Beware of dangerous exaltation of the self! Pride precedeth fall. Remember the passing glories of Assyrians, Chaldeans and Babylonians. It was God who crushed the tyrant's sword in its scabbard and made the magnificent temples of heathen gods crumble into dust. But our God is as merciful as he is just. Ever since the dark hour in which the Saviour of the world died on the Cross, witli outstretched hands nailed on the tree, ready to embrace the whole of humanity, the mightiest king as well as the abject poor, through His self-sacrifice, found a way of reconciliation paved between a straying and stubborn mankind and a divinely just God ! SANADROOG.— And how absurd to suppose this man you call Jesus to be the Son of a mighty God and be powerless to resent the scofif and jeer of a handful of cowardly Jews, and suffer death at tin- hands of a few Roman soldiers. THADDEI'S. — Strong in weakness, rich in poverty, happy in chains and suffering, faith in Jesus, hope in a hereafter, love for all our fellowmen ; these are the truths of the Christian religion. I come to this land to sow the seeds of the Gospel and fulfil my mis- sion. SANADROOG. —Down with all your religion and philosophy. No foreign God shall dominate Armenian hearts. We love to exalt 8 SANDOUKT, Jupiter ami build temples for Artemis. We will not surrender our allei^iance to a loving- but dying God. You shall no more henceforth mar the happiness of my people by denouncing their religion and their gods. THADDEUS. — No threatening nor hatred can prevent my zeal from preaching the Lord ! SANADROOG. — Do you mean to disobey orders? THADDEUS. — Disobey yours, obey His! SANADROOG. — Then you must leave my kingdom at once ; I command. THADDEUS.— Not until I win it for Jesus Christ. SANADROOG. —Curse be on you. You shall not see again my face until, through your obstinacy, find your head resting on the executioner's block * * * (walks out of the room in anger). THADDEUS. — May God forgive thee and bless thee * * * . PART 2ND, SAME PLACE. THADDEUS AND SANDOUKT. SANDOUKT. — (Stealthily coming out from her hiding place) Tell me more of that wonderful Jesus and His cross, most reverend father. Here is a virgin soul to receive your words as coming from heaven above. Ever since my darling mother imprinted her last ])arting kiss on my lips as she drew me closer to her side, "My dear child," she said to me in a low but melodiously sweet voice, "I am dying and soon the angels will place my weary soul in the arms of Saviour Jesus * * * Follow the teachings of the apostle Thad- deus. I recommend you to his fatherly care. Exert your influence over your inexorable father the king, to save the prophet from mob's fury. Be faithful to the memory of your parting mother * * * _" Saying this she gave me this (showing a crucifix) emblem of love and purity. With a spark of hope dimly shining in her eyes and with a heavenward gesture of her hand she said, "Daughter, meet me there!" O the pain of separation that crept into my being as I saw her lying there still in calm repose. Three years have elapsed since mother died and yet not a day has passed in which I did not say the prayers that she taught me. Tell me more of that religion which inspires our hearts with everlasting hope for a reunion of souls ! Speak ! and let my bleeding heart find a remedy in you. THADDEUS. — Heavens have prepared a crown of thorns for this (touching with hand) fair brow, and cross of sufferings for you to bear. H you only be faithful to the end, this prosperous nation will in time, through the illuminating star of your unflinching faith, be guided to pay a lasting tribute to Jesus the King of kings and the T^ord of lords. SANDOUKT. — And do you, for a moment, doubt the spirit in which I have determined to live? FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 9 THADDEUS. — No ! but it wouldn't be premature to say right here that you need be prepared to expect the inevitable. Dark clouds are gathering over your head threatening, with a downpour of human might and main to extinguish the light of the Gospel which I was instrumental in lodging within your tender heart. SANDOUKT. — The tempest may only increase the speed of a sailing boat to reach only the quicker the safe shore ! THADDEUS. — But are you not aware of the dangers and hidden rocks of a treacherous human sea? SANDOUKT.— When Jesus is the pilot, all is well ! THADDEUS.— But your father, the king? SANDOUKT.— Shall know that I am a Christian ! THADDEUS. — And do you ignore the perils that surround you? SANDOUKT.— I am ready to face them. THADDEUS. — May God send His angels to protect you from the snares of the evil, give you courage to stand firmly for His cause, willing to live as to die for His sake * * * Good-bye! (Exit of apostle.) (Sandoukt follows apostle to the entrance where she receives a roll of papyrus supposed to be a fragment of the Gospel, reads atten- tively while retires only to appear to Yervant in Part following.) SANDOURT AND YERVANT (the general.) YERVANT. — (Alone, just returned from Persian war, anxious to meet Sandoukt. his sweetheart, and in a rapture of fond love) Oh ! how pleasant it is to tread on the grounds she treads, how sweet to breathe in the air she breathes ! Every voice in nature and every sound in air echoes back to me "Sandoukt!" Sandoukt. the embodi- ment of all purity and grace, of all wit and intelligence! Sandoukt! What a magic name to which my heart responds in an ecstasy of love! Love? what an uncommon weakness for an army general! Yet the heart which led the nation's forces from victory to victory now bows down in submission before this maiden fair. How truh the plans of the immortal gods sway and overrule human plans. Ac- cording to late reports from Erevan the enemy is concentrating its forces on our frontier. Before long Sanadroog will know this and he may detail me again to the scene of trouble. I'he Scythians of the North they are barbarians and it takes a considerable number of dis- ciplined warriors to bring them into subjection. Without a murnnir 1 shall res])on(l to my country's call. ( )n my return from the late war Sanadrcjog ])romised me his only daughter and Sandoukt shall be my l)ride before another war cry strikes the king's ears ! * * * lUit Sandoukt, she may be a changed girl now. Now a soft sympa- thetic smile will bloom they say on her face and then fade away. .Man\- a time ])eople have seen her take something like this( here make a cross sign with his index fingers) to her lips and kiss, and then suddenly burst into tears. "O Sandoukt, Sandoukt!" would I cry then, "what iit^rnal things are wrapping you with night and 10 SANDOUKT. gloom Irom which \crvant cannot save you, darling?" "^^ * * There she is once more with the melody of her sweet voice. She sing-s of luT departed mother * '''■ * Poor Sandoukt * * * She calls herself a keeper of her mother's tomb ^^ * * . Here she comes now * =5^ * She has a roll of papyrus in her hands * * * (just then Sandoukt re-enters the room when suddenly is confronted by Yervant. the general and lover.) YERVAKT. — Sandoukt! (advances to embrace her). SAXD( )rK'r. — Yervant! (In her excitement drops the roll which Yervant (|uickly picks up and places in his armor). YERX'AXT. — After two years of continuous warfare and battles' desolation 1 am spared to return to lay down the trophies of war be- fore your feet, my mistress and my queen ! SANDOUKT. — (Abstainingly) Yervant! all the riches and gran- deur and glory of the world I count naught. Heavens permitted me once again to see with mortal eyes the one who has stood a central figure in all my prayers and meditations ! Y'ERVANT. — Sandoukt! do you love me? SANDOUKT. — Before and above all things there is a higher and a nobler duty for us to perform if we care to enjoy the full extent of our mundane love ; that is, to prepare for an eternity of life which is promised all mankind in the name of Jesus. YERVANT. — Who is that Jesus of whom you speak so fondly? Is he a commander, king, or deity? Who and wdiat is he? SANDOUKT. — The Son of God who, in order to satiate the de- mand of God's justice against a wicked world, assumed flesh and suf- fered the death of the Cross to save humanity from eternal condemna- tion. He rose from the grave and ascended to heaven, thus fulfilling the prophecies of old. He constantly intercedes now to the Father in behalf of every .penitent soul. YERVANT.— (Horrified) What? You don't belong to that class of crazy people who throw themselves into the fire to burn alive for a man long dead, and whose increasing numbers have only doubled the hatred and indignation of the Roman emperors? Look forward, Sandoukt, into your future. You are your father's only hope to succeed his throne. Look around and see the nations preparations for our forthcoming union in marriage. Phestus, the chief priest, will receive us to the altar with most imposing ceremonies while the people outside of the temple will cheer almost to hoarseness for the happiest couple on the face of the earth ! SANDCJUKT. — In a fortnight the test of a poor maiden's moral strength will decide whether we are to enjoy each other here below or in heaven above ! (Here Sanadroog calls out to Sandoukt who extends her hand to Yervant who planting a lingering kiss on it says :) YERVANT.— I shall be faithful to you unto death, Sandoukt, my love. Fall of curtain. SANADROOG (King of Armenia) 12 SANDOUKT, ACT II. Scene 2nd — King's Apartments. SANADROOG AND SHAVARSH. SHAVARSH. — 1 have a very sad news to communicate to my kincr. SANADROOG.— The greater the perils the more glorious the strength of the concjueror! SHAVARSH. — The greatest of all misfortunes have the gods reserved for the crowned head of the Royal family. SANADROOG. —What can it possibly be, Shavarsh? SHAVARSH. — My king remembers the old man of Judea? SANADROOG. -Well ? SHAVARSH. — He still wanders about in the streets of Ani* try- ing to dissuade the people from worshipping ovir gods, and he has gone as far as penetrating into the king's palace and has succeeded in converting to his strange faith the purest maiden of the land and the only hope of the king's household. SANADROOG. — What? Has Sandoukt. my daughter, become a Christian? SHAVARSH. — I cannot restrain my tongue from telling the awful truth. SANADROOG. —Sandoukt. my daughter a Christian? Shavarsh, you may be mistaken. SHAVARSH. — Unchangeable are the Fate's oracles. It is our duty only to obey them. SANADROOG. —Do not tr}- to console me, Shavarsh. Consola- tion is for light grief only. Sandoukt a Christian ! What a horrible dream. SHAVARSH. — It is not yet too late to prepare against future emergencies and save Sandoukt from eternal disgrace. SANADROOG. -What is a father's first duty in a crisis like this, Shavarsh? SHAVARSH. — Resort to arguments first. If they are powerless to convince her use the weapon of love. Tell her of your afifections and sympathy you have continuously felt towards her since she lost her mother. Tell her also of the sublime preparations that are being made to celebrate her wedding to the most valiant general the nation has ever produced, Yervant, whose name vibrates every chord of ])atriotism in every Armenian's heart. SANADROOG.— If both arguments and love fail? SHAVARSH. — Use force, for it is far better to ignore notion peculiarities of a young girl than precipitate a revolution by trespass- ing upon the religious tendencies of the masses in submission to an absurd faith. 'The capital of ancient Armenia. FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 13 SANADROOG. — Shavarsh, you speak with wisdom and sufficient experience. You can fortell the consequences of a mild and relentinng" policy taken towards my daughter. Will you therefore tell me frankly if stringency of measures against my daughter to protect the nation's honor will ever compensate the love I cherish for her? SHAVARSH. — Idomenes was a Greek who. when subjected to the perils of a raging sea, made a vow to the gods too sacred to be broken after landing safely on shore. Remember how the unfortunate father sacrificed his only son when first greeted by him on his return home from the Trojan war. And Brutus, the Roman patriot, said he loved his country more than he did Caesar who fell dead by the daggers of his most favored friend-assailants. In your case, O Sanadroog, history will repeat itself, and the time is come when both nobility and com- munity need be saved from a dreadful suspense and wavering opinion as to the exact position of your daughter in religion. SANADROOG. —Yes, enough I had to endure of the insults heaped upon my head through the inconsistency of a child-daughter. I can now understand plainly the reasons why she repeatedly refused to take her seat with me in the temple of Diana. () cruel Fate! What shall I do? I am both father and a king. As a father I love Sandoukt, my only daughter ; but as a king I worship Jupiter ! SHAVARSH. — May the lord King grant me a private audience with Sandoukt. and 1 hope to return with cheering reports before the consummation of to-morrow while the public ovation goes on uninter- ruptedly for the event of the next day. I can give you now but one advice, that is, go and rest. Forget the crisis, my lord, until you hear me again on the da}' of the wedding. There is hope yet to regain San- doukt. She loves Yervant, the veteran young hero of Armenian wars, and Yervant is not a Christian. (Taking Sanadroog's hand in his he earnestly says:) Good-bye, Sanadroog! Remember Yervant is not a Christian. SANADROOG. — ( In a very low voice as he leaves tiie room) Yes, Yervant, my noble general, is not a Christian; and if .'-^liaNarsli and I fail to win her, Yervant will. Good-bye. Shavarsh ! SHAVARSH. — (Alone) Poor Sanadroog. nt) person can sym- ])athize with you any better, for I have a daughter of Sandoukt's age. And woe unto me if Nouvart shoidd ever contemplate abandon- ing the traditions and the religion of her home country * * '■' But I must make haste and see Yervant before to-morrow if 1 should seek to accjuiesce Sanadroog, the unfcjrlunate king of iVrmenia I (Exit of Shavarsh.) PART 3rd. SANDOUKT AND NOUVART. (Entering room together in an apparently sprightly mood and promenading the floor.) 11 SANDOUKT, XOU\^-\.RT. — And what a general is Yervant ! Unswerving courage which has won battles for onr conntry. A perfect type of niascnline l)eautv. a specimen of noble manhood. A man who knows no fear before the signal of dangers, and yet a woman's heart, sweet and tender, underlies that lion's breast. You hold now the sceptre and the crown in one hand and with the other you will soon draw to yourself one who is worthy of all the world's respect and admira- tion. Cheer up. Sandoukt, to-morrow is your day, when you will l)e- ct)me ^'ervant's loving bride! SAXD'OIKT. — Yervant! he is all sincerity, all devotion, all love. lUit Jesus whom 1 have espoused I love dearer than Yervant. NOUVART. — It is foolish to ignore the real and embrace the shadow. SANDOUKT. — How could you draw a line of comparison be- tween the short life of ours and the life yonder beyond the grave? NOUVART. — Judging from personal experience I think I could not love anyone unseen better than my dear Vahram. SANDOUKT.— If you could win him for an eternity of life? NOUVART.— That is altogether different. But even then I would rather let the influx of happy feelings rejoice my heart here below when Vahram murmurs "love" to my ears, in preference to a ]:)romised eternal life. SANDOUKT.— Poor Nouvart. you think perhaps more of Vah- ram than of the salvation of your soul. Remember the apostle's say- ings in regard to souls' immortality. Did we not listen to him to- gether? Did we not take to him our most sanguine troubles. Did you so soon forget Thaddeus, the godly man? NOUVART. — He was cast into prison, they say, for his stubborn resistance to yoiir father's orders. SANDOUKT.— Thaddeus in prison? May God forbid that it become a truth ! But good Lord, what an infernal plot is being daily woven against Thy servants ! Strengthen me, O Lord, a feeble maiden to bear Thy name through life even unto death, like the one Thou hast appointed to Christianize this country. (Turning to Nou- vart) Will you be at the temple to-morrow morning to witness the wedding ceremonies? NOUVART.— Not I alone, but all the daughters of Armenian nobility together with me. SANDOUKT. — I have somewhat of a surprise in reserve for you all. NOUVART. — You are not going to break your promise of marry- ing Yervant? SANDOUKT.— No! NOUVART.— Certainly you do not premeditate a public declara- tion of your new faith? SANDOUKT.— Wait until to-morrow. NOUVART. — A little foolish act on your part may plunge our FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 15 country headlong into a revolution. And you do not want to inflict another mortal wound upon your father now that he is fully aware of your acceptance of Christianity. SAND'OUKT. — Father! Father! I would risk death to win you to Christ ! NOUVART. — Hark ! You are overheard. * " * Do you hear the footsteps of a man? * * "■'• (Rush to entrance of stage and exclaim together at sight of stranger.) " 'Tis Yervant !" (Nouvart takes her departure from Sandoukt with a kiss, leaving the happy couple for) PART 4th. YERVANT AND SANDOUKT. YERX'ANT. — Sandoukt, what makes you always seek the soli- tude of the residence? Why not take a promenade outside the gates of this palace? View the gorgeous display of pennons which adorn the porticoes along the line of the triumphal march to the temple of to-morrow's bridal party. Witness the maneuvers of cavalry and in- fantry and rejoice in the rally of yeomanry which has flooded the city in jubilant anticipation of to-morrow? SANDOUKT. — No, we will stay here, Yervant, and silently ob- serve the solemnit}' of the hour which to-morrow will decide whether you are worthy of a pure maiden's love! YERVANT. — To love you is for me to live. But to live with you will be the loftiest happiness that can be desired. SANDOUKT. — (Confidingly). Yervant. beloved, troubles from within and without thickly are surrounding me. Eikc a rudderless ship I am being tossed about to wreck in a treacherous sh(jal. An uneasy mob, armed to its teeth, is daily scouring around this resi- dence with a view of ascertaining my connection with the new sect. Father Sanadroog is overwhelmed with intense grief at the news of my conversion to Christianity. And the very thought that 1 will not take my seat with him at the heathen temple is maddening him every day. My girl friends scoff and jeer at me for the secret moments I prefer to have in memory of my departed Christian mother and for invoking heavenly comfort to my weary soul. T have long felt the cold touch of their hands on mine, long suffered the sarcasm of their talks, the insinuations of a motley crowd. I am left all alone on earth, all alone, Yervant! * * * (Her arms around his neck, head resting on his shoulders, sobbing.) YERVANT. — Be still, my darling, no power in heaven or earth will ever dare to harm you while ^'ervant lives ! SANDOUKT. — (In a still tremulous voice). Yervant! ! ! ! YERVANT.— (Compassionately). O gods, do not. I pray, light your ravaging battles against Sanadroog and his child. If she has 16 SANDOUKT, despised and ant^ered you, let your llyiui;- arrows lueel my lieart first and spare the future queen of Armenia! SANDOUKT. — (Recovering- from her swoon extricates herself from Yervant's arms, and assuming a bold attitude speaks against idolatry as follows:) in the name of one true God and His Son and His Holy Spirit I defy all other false gods. The idols worshipped throughout the land do not and cannot represent any supreme power either in heaven or on earth. They are invented by the ingenuity of man to only excite the wonderment in the ignorant. Yervant, shake off the rusty fetters of traditional superstition and idolatrous wor- ship and breathe in the pure atmosphere of Christian religion. Let Jui)iter, Apollo. Hermes, Pallas and the rest of Grecian and Roman gods go, but believingly cling to the divine God. Believe in my God, Yervant. and He will provide for us a temporal as well as eternal life! YER\'ANT. — Let the course of time work the desired change in me ; but, Sandoukt, do not speak a harsh word against your fath- er's will. SANDOUKT.— What is my father's will? YERVANT. — Reverence the altar which to-morrow makes us one. SANDOUKT.— Impossible ! YERVANT. — Then you don't care a particle for Yervant, as his devotion is utterly unable to save the crown from sinking into the mire of a frenzied populace? SANDOUKT. — (After a moment's reflection and in a mood of prayer.) O Lord, show me a way to faithfully bear Thy name even at the trying hours of the morrow. YERVANT. — (Listening to a strange sound of a drum and inten- sified cry coming from a distance, calls Sandoukt's attention saying:) Listen, Sandoukt, do you hear the drum's measured notes and the tramping of the marching soldiers every minute increasing? They must be very near this place as you can distinctly hear their voices now. Let us stand near the window to catch a glimpse of this giant body of enthusiastic people. (Here soldiers are seen through win- dow across back part of stage shouting "Hurrah for Yervant," etc., as they pass along.) SANDOUKT.— (Enquiringly.) What means all this, Yervant? Can it be that a catastrophe awaits the king's household on my ac- count? YERVANT. — No! (Sadly.) The marching army wants its com- mander back to go to the North to check and subdue the barbarians who have crossed our frontier ! SANDOUKT. — O Yervant, Yervant, I am Heaven's most unfor- tunate and forlorn child! War, accursed war! Thy victims are countless, thy purpose is void. How many mothers tearfully wrap- ped their loving arms around the erect forms of their parting son? never again to meet their smile or hear their soothing call of MOSES KHOREN (Historian) IS SANOOUKT, "mother!" in all their life-time. How many widowed women Sfath- ered with their eliildren around the frozen corpses of their husbands hrouo-Jit back by their comrades upon their shields with their faces turned against the enemy. And how numberless are the broken hearts of dainty maidens who prayed day and night for the safe return of their sweethearts from the l)loody field, but in vain ! While their dead or dying bodies are left on the field perhaps unable to drive away the wild wolf who devours their hearts or prevent the horrid vulture who settles on their breasts to dig their eyes ! O the horrors of war ! They mark the advent of Mars. But Christ says, "Peace be on earth !" YERVANT. — Sandoukt, to defend my country is my duty, but to defend you a virtue. Soon after noon to-morrow I am going North * * * Who will then take care of Sandoukt? SANDOUKT.— Angels of God! YERVANT. — May the angels of God expand their wings over you and protect you until Yervant returns ! SANDOUKT. — In life or in death I am thine * * * _ YERVANT. — Good-bye * * * until * * * to-morrow. SANDOUKT.— Good-bye (watches him disappear when curtain falls. ACT III. Scene 3rd — Palace Corridors. sanadroog, shavarsh and VAHRAM. SxANADROOG. — (Preparing to leave palace for temple with his courtiers). After a night of horrible dreams I cannot cheerfully welcome the dawn of day. My head is awhirl about the secrets of the day. SHAVARSH. — A more faithful and daring courier than Vahram can not be found in all the kingdom. SANADROOG. -Does Nouvart love Vahram? SHAVARSH. — An immaculate love actuates the feelings of both ; and I am proud to say that her choice has been for one direct in the king's service. SANADROOG.— Have you ever felt the pang of suspicion about your daughter's religion, or, in other words, did you ever suspect Nouvart being a Christian ? SHAVARSH. — Once, and that but recently. SANADROOG. — Well Shavarsh, I will ask you no more ques- tions as the time is getting near and we must start for the temple. SHAVARSH. — All preparations for the hour are complete and the plans are familiar to my king. FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 19 SANADROOG. — That the couple, Yervant and Sandoukt, escorted by their friends, will be at the temple before us. SHAVARSH. — Just exactly so. And the arrival of the king's party will give the signal for the commencement of the exercises. SANADROOG. — (Looking out.) Come here, Shavarsh ! You see that rapidly moving form in the crowd edging out his way through the multitude towards this place? SHAVARSH. — (After an investigating look.) Why, that's Vah- ram, the king's courier! SANADROOG. —Must have extremely important news to bring. * * * (Here Vahram is seen running and in a few seconds seeking entrance through the door, at whose sight Sanadroog and Shavarsh ask in unison) "What news do you bring us, Vahram?" VAHRAM.— (Pantingly and timidly.) My lord! SHAVARSH. — Speak, Vahram, and hide from us nothing! VAHRAM.— (Embarrassed.) I was * * * the temple * * the bridal party * * * SANADROOG. -(With a thundering voice.) Speak! Even if it be a sentence of death ! VAHRAM. — (Gaining his speech.) According to orders issued from the king, my lord, I went early this morning to the temple with. a determination to report every detail of the celebration to my king. I mingled with the crowd and patiently waited for the arrival of the bridal party. Just two hours before noon the stately gates of the magnificent temple were flung open to the crowd. The people rushed in from all sides and soon the main entrance was blockaded by a huge and solid mass of human beings. The guards were to be seen here and there in the crowd, moving slowly but meaningly, main- taining order. Shouts of "Hurrah's" filled the air when suddenly the bridal party appeared in the rear. The crowd made way as San- doukt leaning upon Yervant's arm, followed by the retinue, passed under the arch and then, through the central aisle up to the altar. This followed by a deep silence lasted but for a few minutes. Yer- vant, the cver-])()])ular general, was absorl)ed in the talk which San- doukt was constantly whispering to his ear. Everybody commented upon Sandoukt's cjueenly grace. l>ut suddenly there was an un- usual commotion which changed to a scene of distress. Rushing further into the temple, equipped by the courier's badge, I stood be- hind I'hestus who was giving orders to his subordinates in regard to the manner of conducting the ceremonies. Just when everybody was waiting in dire expectancy, for the presence of your majesty and of the courtiers. .Sandcjukt sprang u]) to her feet, leading Yervant by the hand, proceeded to the altar, and turning to the general said. "Yervant, do you love me?" Every one who witnessed the spectacle held his breath. She looked sublimingly handsome in her garments of white. Yervant unable to suppress a tear answered in tones of deep emotion. "I swear upon heavens and earth," said he, "that 1 love but you!" Whereupon Sandoukt turning to our gods said, "O 20 SANDOUKT, ye false gods of thousands of worshippers ! Fall ye before the one "true God of the whole universe. * * * Let this maddened crowd know that I am ready to stamp Christ's name upon this altar with my blood if need be!" The minute she spoke these words an earthcjuake shook the temple from its foundations and the words were still ring- ing- in the ears of the terrified spectators when the dome supported by the marble columns of the altar collapsed with frightening noise aiid laid our gods in ruins. After a few moments of consternation tlic people awoke as if from a dream. In a second swords were drawn to spill Sandoukt's blood on the spot. Every mouth shouted for vengeance. It was a perfect pandemonium. The chief priest himself, followed by a blood-thirsty mob. started for this palace. The people inside and outside of the temple determined that Sandoukt should die. But Yervant, gallant general, shielding the girl with his body took her out of the temple and when pressed hard by a number of assassins. "Remember, fellow-citizens." said he. "that she is Sana- (iroog's daughter. If you seek a sacrifice for your hatred, here I am, slash my body to pieces but spare Sandoukt !" The scene was a ter- rible one. The wild, raging and roaring human sea was torn as though by a whirlwind. Women fiocked the street corners to discuss what their eyes saw in the temple. Yervant's voice now became more and more commanding, more and more threatening. "Fellow citi- zens," said he, at times choked with emotion. "I am intrusted with the king's most precious jewel, and I must return her safely to her father. Go to the king, ask of him justice, he will sustain your rights. But do not, I prav, take the law in your hands to shed this maiden's blood!" Saying this he jumped into the chariot, with Sandoukt in his arms, and soon the flying pair of Arabian horses left the crowd in a cloud of dust. In the meanwhile Phestus, with all his subor- dinates and infuriated populace, was half way to this place. The remnant of the crowd fell prostrate around about the edifice which was set on fire in some mysterious way. You can still see, bending from this window, the flame wrapped temple far yonder and hear the dull cry of the people who are thronging now the streets in search of the prisoner, Sandoukt. * * * (Here make a startling confusion indicating the approach of crowd outside of palace with shouts of ""Death to the criminal!" "Long live Armenia," "Great is Diana," etc.) SHAVARSH.— What is the racket outside. VAHRAM. — The people, demanding justice. SANADROOG. — Let the doors be opened to receive the people. PART 5th. SAME, PHESTUS AND PEOPLE. SANADROOG. — What can Sanadroog do for the people? PHESTUS.— Justice! FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 21 SAN ADROOG. -What is the trouble? PHESTUS. — In the name of gods and on behalf of these people I demand the surrender of Sandoukt, the king's sacriligeous daughter. SANADROOG. — M}^ daughter! She is no more my daughter. She has insulted our gods, and she deserves a severe punishment. PHESTUS. — Nothing short of a capital punishment will satisfy the gods. SANADROOG. — The gods are not so cruel as to demand of a father to kill his only child. Any thing but that ! PHESTUS.— Sandoukt must die! SANADROOG. —How cruel, ( ) Fate, and how unchano-eable are your oracles! (Drop on a couch, overcome with grief.) SHAVARSH. — Phestus, do not speak like that to the king. PHESTUS. — If I kee]) my mouth shut, there'll be a thovisand others to shout "death to the criminal !" THE PEOPLE. — Yes, death to the criminal, death to Sandoukt! SANADROOG. — (Jumping to his feet roars:) Subside all vc peo- ple, your demand forthwith will be considered. Sandoukt must either relax from her strange faith or die. One or the other! (Phes- tus and people withdraw.) SANADROOG. — (Turning to Shavarsh and courtiers.) The peo- ple want justice and do justice to the people I will, even if I should have to sacrifice mine only daughter, Sandoukt! '•' * * Where is the culprit? VAHRAM. — Let me enquire! (Exit of Vahrani in (juest of San- doukt.) SHAVARSH. — Spare your child if you possibly can. Her life — if she repents — will mean more to the good and welfare of our country than her death. SANADR(JOG. —Arguments cannot ])revail with a Christian. SHAVARSH. — That is all true. Put a father's love may yet win back Sandoukt. SANADROOG. —The ])eople are clamoring for her death. SHAVARSH. — They will relent when Sandoukt ])leads for mercy. (V'ahram back again.) SANADROOG. -Where is Sandoukt? VAHRAM. — In her own chamber. The maidens, with Xouvart at their head, are assisting Sandoukt to appear to the king. SHAVARSH. — .\ii\ liarm done to Sandoukt? V'AHR.AM.— No harm done to Sandoukt. The blood spots seen on her white garments are from Ycrvant's wounds which he prob- ably received in the skirmish for his heroic defense of Sandoukt. A COURTll'lK.— (iallant soldier and a devoted lover is Yervant. SHAVARSH.— Xoble ^■ervant ! Is lir here? SANADROOG. —Any danger about his wounds proving mortal'.' 22 SANDOUKT, VAHRAM. — My lord king and counsellor are aware of the fresh rumors of war. Yesterday and to-day the confirmed reports from the North indicated the pressing need of more reinforcements and the special commandership of Yervant. So the devoted lover and patriot Yervant. after leaving Sandoukt to the tender care of her companions, and riding in front of a volunteer force went to the North to drive the rebellious Scythians from the country ! SANADROOG.— Brave and noble Yervant! The entire world is but a little recompense for your heart i * * * VAHkAM. — (Rushing to the entrance.) Sandoukt is at the door and seeks admittance. SHAVARSH. — We will leave the king alone with his daughter. SANADROOG. — (Escorting both to opposite entrance.) Thanks to you both for services you have so far rendered to the throne and your country. "Good-bye!" PART 6th. SANADROOG, SANDOUKT AND EXECUTIONERS. SANADROOG. — (Proceeding to greet his daughter at entrance.) Come in, you ignoble daughter of an unfortunate king. This was then the surprise you had reserved for your father, eh? SANDOUKT.-^(Not wholly recovered yet from the shock of the morning, stretches her arms to Sanadroog. ) Father, I love you! SANADROOG. —(Shaking off Sandoukt's arms from his should- ers.) The daughter who will love a despised God more and listen to the teachings of a wandering Jew is not worthy of a father's love. SANDOUKT. — I always loved you, father, and prayed for you? SANADROOG.— Yes, you did love me once, when you were young * * ■''- O happy days gone by ! I will give my whole kingdom if just a few of those fleeting happy moments could be re- stored to me now ! Sandoukt then was different — loving, confiding, obedient — Sanadroog taking her by the hand would gently lead her to the temple where people would stretch their necks to take an- other glimpse of my child before we left the sacred place. To-day. the same people are seeking your death, and that with just reason. (Affectionately.) .Sandoukt, daughter, thou true picture of the no- blest woman who once lived and made this home a worldly paradise for her husband and child ; for your departed mother's sake won't you accept your father's gods and renounce the hated Christ? SANDOUKT. — I cannot renounce my mother's God. SANADROOG. —(Surprised.) Your mother was not a Christian? SANDOUKT.— My mother was a Christian and died a Christian. SANADROOG. — (Angrily.) Are you willing then to die a Chris- tian's death? SANDROUKT.— As well as to live a Christian's life. FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 23 SANADROOG. —It is time then for you to harvest the conse- quences of your foolish life. (Turning back.) Executioners ! Take this Christian into the dungeon until further issuance of my orders! SANDOUKT. — (Shrieking on bended knees.) Father, mercy! SANADROOG.— Daughter, (laying down the sword and the crown before her) choose ! SANDOUKT. — (Courageously picking up sword) Father, if this is the weapon which transported many a Christian soul from the wilderness of human misery safe into the heavenly Canaan ; if this is the weapon which will satiate the demand of your people for my blood and save the crown, 1 choose this. Take, father, take the sword and plunge it into my bosom, ending my existence. My last word will be a song and my last breath a prayer olTered to God for you. ' Take, father ! Strike the fatal blow yourself, and pray, let not time be lengthened by delay or imprisonment ! SANADROOG. — A more ignominious death waits for you. You shall remain in prison until Yervant returns. Executioners ! Ad- vance and take this Christian to prison. Even a father will remain callous against the wailings of a sacriiigeous daughter ! EXECUTIONERS. — "Come maiden, walk with us to prison, it is the king's command." SANDOUKT. — Don't! * * * Let me speak a word * '^ * about * * * Yervant! (Exit of Executioners with Sandoukt.) SANADROOG.— Away with her! * * * So perish will all they who dare take upon themselves the name of Christ. And, by the immortal gods, I swear to blot out the last vestige of Christianity if it will doubtless mean the physical destruction of my own child. So, the world shall know that, after all, no foreign vGod shall ever dominaate Armenian hearts as long as Sanadroog sits on the throne! (Fall of Curtain.) ACT IV. Scene 4th — The Prison. AXCjELIC SONGS, SAXDOUKT AND THADDEUS. (Both in chains, in different cells partitioned by a thin wall.) A female duo, or trio — (Sing with expression). "Go bury thy sorrows. The world' hath its share ; Go bury it deeply. Go hide it with care, (lO think of it calmly. When curtained by night Go tell it to Jesus, And all will be right." 24 SANDOUKT, "Go tell it to Jesus, He knoweth thy grief; Go tell it to Jesus, He'll send you relief, Go gather the sunshine He sheds on the way; He'll lighten thy burden. Go, weary one, pray." SANDOUKT. — (In her sleep.) O Jesus, Thou who didst teach us to love sorrow, when curtained by night, grant me the spirit which characterized Thy servants giving their lives for the establishment of Thy peaceful kingdom. * * * (Deliriously.) Mother! dear mother, tarry with me a little longer. * * * I y^\\\ wear that robe of white and soon count in your blissful company. * * * What more suffering can an enfeebled girl endure to throw off this mortal and wear the immortal? * * * Death? I am ready to face it * * * What is it you say, mother? A martyr's death awaits j^^gP ;i: * * Alas! I cannot live a little longer to see Yervant a Christian I * * * Yervant ! When I drop dead by the poisonous arrows of my executioners, freed from the bonds of the world my incarnal soul will hover about you, my first and lasting love! (Awaking.) Where am I? An awful presentiment covers my being with dreadful chills, and I feel * * * as though * * * j am lost to the world ! But why do I think so of Yervant? Why do sad- dening thoughts so disturb the peace of my mind? How would Yer- vant feel should he return to find Sandoukt * * * in prison. There is no hope for me ! Sandoukt is destined to die [ * * * Hello ! I hear a man's voice, familiar to me. * * * "pjs Thad- deus. on the other side and what a blessing to me. O sacred voice, once more speak to me the words of life. * * * He seems happy in his chains. By a strange fate we may together die on the same scaffold. He sings. * * * THAD'DEUS. — (Engaged in solemn thanksgiving and song.) "More love to thee, O Christ! More love to Thee ! Hear thou the prayer I make On bended knee ; This is my earnest plea, — More love, O Christ, to Thee, Let sorrow do its work. Send grief and pain ; Sweet are Thy messengers vSweet their refrain, When they can sing with me -- More love, O Christ, to Thee, More love to Thee !* *These verses are copied from the Hymnal for their most appro- priate and approximate words to the original Armenian. A Typical Armenian General 26 SANDOUKT, SANDOUKT.— (Rapping at the wall and shouting.) Thaddeus ! Thaddeus ! THADDEUS. — (Surprised.) Vision or reality? I hear San- doukt's voice ! SANDOUKT. — It is Sandoukt herself, most reverend father! THADDEUS. — Sandoukt in prison? and what for? SANDOUKT. — My father, king Sanadroog, was incensed against my being a Christian ; proposed me to choose either the sword or the crown. Resolute in my faith I chose the sword — my death. THADDEUS. — Sandoukt ! May God help you carry the cross through the thorny path of life's journey ! SANDOUKT. — (Alone.) What a wonderful heart is in the bosom Of this godly man, crystallized by the presence of long suffering. (Aloud. ) Father! Can your prophetic soul penetrate into the future of Yervant, the noble general? I will have no peace from hence- forth to the hour of my execution unless assured of his acceptance of Jesus our Lord, as a Saviour? THADDEUS. — Yervant's devotional love for you cannot fail to become a powerful means of his salvation. SANDOUKT. — (Kindly.) O merciful God, save Yervant where- ever he may be, whether in the gory field or in his homeward return in triumph, save him, O Lord, for my sake, in Jesus' name. Amen !" (Unconscious sleep overtakes her until disturbed and awakened by the sad' sudden arrival of Yervant in the pathetic PART 7th. — Inside and outside of prison. YERVANT, HIS COMRADES, KEEPER AND SANDOUKT IN A CELL. YERVANT. — (Just back from the frontier war, victorious, but mortally wounded, tenderly placed and carried by his comrades on a pair of stretchers, wishes to meet Sandoukt, writhing in the agonies of death.) Take me, soldiers, take me to the place where Sandoukt, my light and my love, is condemned to expiate her crime of adhering to the cross. In a few minutes Yervant will exist no more ! The dreadful chill of death has already crept into my being; and soon my sinking eyes will close to the glorious rise of the morning's sun. Make haste ! How far are we yet from the prison ? A SOLDIER. — We are almost at the gates, general! YERVANT. — (Electrified makes a futile attempt to jump, but his excitement proves enervating and with a distressing groan ex- claims.) O Sandoukt, Sandoukt! No one but your living God can save you from death, now that Yervant's lifeless body will soon roll before your feet! * * * (Here soldiers lay down gently their charge and proceed to knock at the gate, while SOLDIERS. — (Shouting) Armen ! Open the doors quick for our beloved Yervant. FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 27 ARMEX. THE KEEPER.— (Thunderstruck.) Yervant back! but what a pitiful sight. I would not believe my eyes! It is true, though, they are carrying Yervant. Hurrah for the brave general! But, my gods, what will become of poor Sandoukt when she wakes up only to see her. lover dying at her feet! Boys! Walk right in. The maiden is in dreamland. YERVANT.— Comrades ! take care not to disturb the dream- ing prisoner. Walk in gently ! * * * But I shall soon be roam- ing in her dreamland ! (The company reaches her cell now. A lurid light shedding its melancholia completes the sad picture of the gloomy cell.) ALL.— (At once.) Hush ! sh ! ! ! ! YERVANT. — (Breaking silence and in rapture.) Sandoukt! An- gel of purity, mistress of love! How in your sufferings intense you still look sublime! SANDOUKT. — (Deliriously.) "O Jesus! gird me with a spirit of courage when the solemn hour comes. (All the rest bend in deep silence to catch every word that falls from her lips.) * * "-'■' Clouds of flame and a blood-surging sea will devour my life on earth ; but Thou, O Jesus, receive to Thy heavenly home my wearied soul and that of Yervant, I pray * * * YERVANT.— "Yervant !" Does she still think of me? Here is the unquestionable proof — she prays for me! ((jrasping tightly the hands of Sandoukt in his, supported by the soldiers, scarce able to sit, pleadingly says:) Sandoukt, dear Sandoukt, wake up to see the object of your prayer ; Yervant is talking to you, Sandoukt. SANDOUKT.- — (Half-awake, mistaking the by-standcrs for her executioners shrinks and hiding her face in her hands so1)s) No, no, not yet ! Please don't kill me before I say my last prayer. Spare me, pray, until once again I see Yervant ! ! ! A SOLDIER. — (With gentle words bringing her to her senses.) No, maiden, we are not your executioners, we are the soldiers who fought l)y Yervant's side. We have returned home with Yer\ant, the concjuering but now dying general. SANDOl^KT.— (Almost l)reathless at the shocking news.) Where is he now ? SOLDI 1':KS.— Right here. YERVANT. — Come to me, Sandoukt, won't you speak a kind word to your dying sweetheart? SANDOUKT. — (Realizing the entire situation, in tones of bound- less sym])athy.) Oh, Yervant, Yervant, what evils have beset you! Could a just (iod demand two loving sacrifices at a time? YERVANT. — Sandoukt, the religion that has made your heart j)ure as crystal, has purified my heart also. And the instructions I received from the fragment of the Gospel Thaddeus preached have thansformed me into a new being. SANDOUKT.— (Planting a kiss on Yervant's brow.) Death can- not separate us, Yervant i * * * 28 SANDOUKT, YERV'AXT. — My life is ebbing away rapidly now; but I ain not afraid of death. One sore spot remains yet on my heart unhealed, ihat is, to leave you to the mercies of a sanguinary and lawless mob. SANDOUKT. — They can kill and defile the body, but they can do no harm to my soul, which will soar high above the clouds to meet you and all the redeemed in the skies. YERVANT. — (Convulsively.) Farewell, Armenia, the land of my birth, life and death. * * * Farewell to you, soldiers, noble and brave, who fought the nation's battles in obedi- ence to my orders. '^ '•' * I^'arewell to you, Sanadroog! May the lustre of your glory shine from age to age ; and may God omni- potent quicken your hardened soul to believe in Christian truths. '•' * * Farewell to you, Sandoukt, my love, mine all [ =1^ * * See over there? * * '" Hear the inspiring music that fingers like your's are playing on the golden harps. * * * How they beckon to me! * = * j ^^^ coming * * * Good-bye! * * ALL PRESENT. — (In deep sorrow.) Yervant's dead! SANDOUKT. — (Feeling the lifeless weight of Yervant's body in her arms crying aloud.) Yervant, Yervant, Oh Yervant, you're not dead ! YERVANT.— * * * Sandoukt! * * * meet * * j^^g * * * there 1 * * * (Die.) THADDEUS.— (From the other side of the wall, aloud.) One more precious soul — a gem of courage and nobility — for the crown of Jesus, the Lord of all ! Fall of Curtain. ACT V. Scene 5th — The Prison. SANADROOG. SANDOUKT, THADDEUS, EXECUTIONERS. SANADROOG. — (Visiting prison early in the morning of the day set for the execution of two Christians, Sandoukt and Thaddeus, sternly addressing keeper in the antechamber. ) What is the news about the girl, Armen? ARM EN. — She is precariously ill, my lord. She was persistent in her refusal to take any nourishment since the death of General Yervant ! SANADROOG. —Did she ever show a sign of penitence during her confinement? ARMEN. — Not in the least, my lord! On the contrary, her strange religion seems to have a firmer hold of her, as she has never ceased to pray to certain gods named Jesus and Christ. SANADROOG. — (Angrily.) The same old story ! She must die. * * * Armen, bring her out here ! I will give her a last chance FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 29 to live! * * * (Alone.) I am truly a miserable king. Would our gods impose upon a father such a cruel duty as to demand of him the blood of his only child? x et, it is true! Phestus is the inter- preter of gods' will and whatever says he, must come to pass ! O Sandoukt, if you could only fathom the depths of your father's agony, you might * * * SANDOUKT. — (Entering the room with the keeper and faintly enquiring of Armen.) My father, Sanadroog, here; and what for? SANADROOG.— Take the chains off the maiden's hands and feet! (Orders promptly obeyed.) SANDOUKT. — Father, did you come here to set me free? SANADROOG. — (Compassionately.) Yes, forever free, my daughter, if you only say, at this critical moment,that you accept your father's gods, and live ! SANDOUKT. — It is all vain effort to lure me from the radiant shores of heaven back to a world of idolatrous shame ! SANADROOG. — Sandoukt, daughter, don't you know that I have power to save you from the horrors of death punishment? Won't you yield to your father's pleadings and help save the crown from everlasting disgrace? SANDOUKT.— (Tearfully.) Father, I cannot! SANADROOG. — (Exasperated.) O furies of hell, come and take this profane child to the hades below ! SANDOUKT. — (Prayerfully.) God, have mercy upon my father! SANADROOG. — Stop! Enough I pleaded with you for your life. This very day you shall die amid the scoffs and jeers of your country's people ! Armen, bring out the accursed Jew who made a Christian of this girl. ARMEN. — Presently, my lord ! (Running into Thaddeus' cell.) SANADROOG. — Father, have mercy upon him, pray! (Still crying.) SANADROOG. — No mercies shall be shown our gods' revolting creatures ! ARMEN. — (Pushing and kicking the old man into the room who drops before the king's feet.) There is the cause and source of all disloyalty and stubborn resistance! SANADROOG.— (Kicking.) (let up, you evil spirit and answer my question. (Unable to rise.) Soldiers! pick him up and 1 will spit him on the face. (Sla])ping Thaddeus in the face.) Speak now! if you can't make me also a Christian ? SANDOUKT. — (Springing towards Thaddeus embraces him and sympathetically.) Courage, Thaddeus! but for a little while now, and soon our pains and sorrows will vanish from us to return no more! THADDEUS.— (Emphatically.) Jesus Christ said in his divine sermon upon the mountain, "P)lessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for they shall inherit the kingdom of heaven!" 30 SANOOUKT, SANADROOG. — (Ang^rily stamping with his foot on the floor.) Enoui^h ! Executioners ! advance and take these prisoners to the public square! They must die! I spake, it is now a law which must take its full course. In the meantime, I go to the palace ; thence to the place of execution to receive from the congregated courtiers and people the thousand congratulations upon my allegiance to the na- tion's gods, while these two Christians fall upon their death-ground ! Great are our gods and great is he who executes their supreme will ! (Exit of Sanadroog followed by a noisy preparation for the death procession while curtain remains down 15 or 20 seconds for the following Scene 6th — Public Square or the Place of Execution. THE ENTIRE CAST OF CHARACTERS PRESENT. (Sana- droog seated on his throne surrounded by courtiers and priests in their most brilliant garb, and guards restraining with difficulty the pressing crowd of people, when suddenly a company of young girls step to the front, led by Nouvart, who petitions the king as follows :) NOUVART. — Most gracious king of Armenia! With the heavi- est hearts in our bosoms we, the representative body of Armenian womanhood, are regarding with boundless horror, the coming exe- cution of Sandoukt as the most atrocious crime of all ages ! While we uniformly condemn Thaddeus as the cause of all evils of late — whose removal alone by execution from our midst may adequately appease the anger of our gods — we earnestly appeal to your sym- pathies, that, irrespective of her resolute stand for Christ, you pardon Sandoukt, your loving daughter and our best friend ! (All kneel down imploring his pity.) SANADROOG. — (His bosom heaving most violently and his vagrant looks searching Phestus at his side, under the stress of the last words spoken.) What have you to say, Phestus? PHESTUS. — (Apprehending the king's relaxation jumps to the front, makes an animated speech and again becomes master of the situation. Very solemnly.) "Sanadroog, courtiers, fellow-priests and citizens of Armenia ! Before attempting to freshen in your minds the incidents of the past I will ask the king to order these girls back to their homes, and never again allow them to enter the spheres of religious and political influence. (Ladies retire with the approval of the king.) Do these weaklings mean to stay the hand of justice from administering to the criminals in question the severe retribu- tion which is their right due? On, then, O Sanadroog, go with your determination to mete out the punishment on the scoundrel who taught these people Jewish adsurdities, and your once devoutly lov- ing daughter to despise you — a father — and love a dead and resur- rected Christ ! The moment has come, O Sanadroog, when you must show these thronging thousands your sovereign power, that both as a jealous father and a mighty ruler you do not shrink from the per- FIRST MARTYR OF ARMENIA. 31 formance of a noble duty ! Who is that king who will not have his name inscribed upon his tomb-stone with the words: "Terror to his enemies !" "Defender of his country ! "Ruler of nations ! "Beloved of gods ! (Retire.) (Here dissenting voices heard in the crowd as Sandoukt clad in white and Thaddeus in black are hurried along to the spot.) ONE VOICE.— Isn't she sublime? SECOND VOICE. — The old man looks very much worn out! THIRD VOICE. — It is a pity to see cut down this flower of beauty and queenly grace! ALL. Sh! Sh! ! Sandoukt and Thaddeus stand side by side on the platform sup- posed to be the scaffold, both with their heads bowed down entirely deaf to the murmurings and admirations of the people when suddenly they are startled by Sanadroog's voice.) SANADROOG.— Ready ? (The two executioners retreat 7-8 paces and kneeling aim their arrows at the hearts of the Christians spotted with small signs of a cross to insure instantaneous death.) SANADROOG. —Thaddeus! There you stand face to face with death, Jupiter or Christ? Life or death, which? THADDEUS.— Death ! for the sake of my Lord Jesus Christ ! SANADROOG. — And die thou shalt ! (Number one executioner lets his arrow fly deeply embedded into the heart of Thaddeus who falls with his last words.) THADDEUS.— "May peace dwell in thee, Armenia! (Die.) SANADROOG. —Thus will shamefully end the lives of all the accursed Christians who dare stand against Sanadroog! (Addressing his daughter.) Will Sandoukt, aware of the fate now before her, re- turn to her father's gods? SANDOUKT. — (Pale and quivering yet drawing herself to her height.) "I am a Christian !" SANADROOG. — (Madly stamping his foot and roaring.) "Sil- ence! (Executioners, entirely unnerved, aim their inaffcctive arrows in vain which fall short before Sandoukt. Whereupon Sanadroog, crazed by ominous consequences, rushes forward and plunges his brandishing sword into his daughter's heart, crying.) SANADROOG. —(Furiously.) Thus the Christian enemies of our gods will perish ! And no tongue will dare speak the name of Jesus while I am king of Armenia? SANDOUKT.— (Twingeing in agonies of death.) O Jesus, I com- mit myself unto thee! Receive me. Lord, receive me! * * * Yervant ! I am coming to thee! coming to thee! (Succumbs to un- consciousness.) 32 SANDOUKT, (Phestus manages to run away from the scene, while Sanadroog gazes stupidly upon his victim's blood-covered body. Here the winged spirit of Yervant may be seen perching above Sandoukt's head and rapidly disappearing, while the horrified people shout.) "Isn't that Servant? * * * Yervant has come to save San- doukt ! O heavens, this is terrible!" SOME ONE. — (To a company of three or four.) Sandoukt was truly innocent ! The king was willing to save her. The guilt is on Phestus, the chief priest! (Looking around, and not seeing Phestus there.) Where is he? (All at once shouting.) "We'll hunt him up and kill him on the spot! (Run ofT.) SANADROOG.— (Thus far gazing motionless, upon his daugh- ter's lifeless body, lifts up his eyes to see the courtiers hiding their faces and the remnant of the crowd pointing out to the corpse of San- doukt laid low in her gory blood ; and waking from his stupor realizes his error, but alas ! too late. Rushes forward and taking Sandoukt in his arms most piteously.) "O Sandoukt, my daughter, what have I done to you ! I killed you, my darling, my only Sandoukt. * * * You are breathing vet, my darling, though heavily. Won't you speak to me a word of forgiveness? * * * Darling, I have done a great wrong; I stained my hands in your blood I * * * O gods, pour down your lightnings' and thunders upon my head and let Sanadroog be no more ! Skilled 'mine only daughter, Sandoukt! * * * Sandoukt! tell me that you forgive me! (Putting her arms around his neck.) Daugh- ter, daughter! You are dying! before your arms tighten in their cold embrace, won't you let me hear, Sandoukt, the word that you for- give me, your guilty father. * * * ? SANDOUKT. — (Coming back to life for a, moment.) Father! I love * * * and * * * forgive you! (Saying this breathes her last in the arms of Sanadroog.) SANADROOG.— (Relieved.) She forgives me! It is a divine religion that teaches humanity to love and forgive! * * * Thou didst conquer me, at last, O Jesus Nazarene ! Fall of Curtain and the End of the Play. University of California SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY 305 De Neve Drive - Parking Lot 17 • Box 951388 LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA 90095-1388 Return this material to the library from which it was borrowed. A APR 07 «w Form L9- % AMPHLET BINDER -^^:Z Syracuse, N. Y. '~~ Stockton, Calif. ^:,- ^.-..iTutRf, Rn^iiifjii I IRRARY FACILITY 1IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII 3 1158 00757 PK 8689 Kills A A 000 341799 5 ■'; . ...^^^ ^^Ty>:^J■:i;^w^^^^mm' Vnive Soi Lil