A A 1 2 5 1 9 9 1 : LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE ci LOFQ auQ MARTHA MORTON HER LORD AND MASTER A COMEDY IN FOUR ACTS BY MARTHA MORTON in COPYRIGHT, 1912, BY MARTHA MORTON CONHEIM CAUTION, Amateurs and professionals are hereby warned that "He* Lord and Master," being fully protected under the copyright laws of the United States, is subject to royalty, and any one presenting the play without the consent of the publisher will be liable to the penal- tie* by law provided. Application for the right to produce "Her Lord and Master" must be made to Samuel French, 28-30 West 38th Street, New York City. All rights reserved NEW YORK SAMUEL FRENCH PUBLISHER 28-30 WEST 38TH STREET LONDON SAMUEL FRENCH, LTD. 26 SOUTHAMPTON STREET STRAND CAST OF CHAEACTEKS (Original) EIGHT. HONORABLE THURSTAN EALPH CANNING VISCOUNT Mr. Kelcey. LORD NELSON STAFFORD Mr. Morton Selten. MR. "FRED" STILLWATER Mr. Charles W. Stoke. "GLEN" MASTERS Mr. Douglas Fairbanks. JENNINGS Mr. Percy Brooke. FLASH Mr. William Elliott. LADY HELENA CANNING Thurstan's mother and sister to Lord Stafford Mrs. Isabel Waldron. GRANDMA CHAZY BUNKER Miss Hattie Russell. MRS. STILLWATER Miss Ida Darling. KITTY Miss Winona Shannon. INDIANA STILLWATER Miss Effie Shannon. ACT I On Mr. Stillwater's Game Preserves and Model Farm, U. S. A. ACTS II, III and IV Lord Canning's House, Lon don, England. Originally produced at Detroit Opera House, Detroit, Mich., September, 1902 C. S. EOBINSON, Stage Manager. HER LORD AND MASTER PROPERTY PLOT ACT I SCENE. STILLWATER'S bungalow, Colorado, U. '8. A combination hunting lodge and model farm. Interior of hallway in house made of logs the logs showing on the inside large pin,e logs, with the bark on, run longitudinally about the walls from the top of a 5-foot wains cot, to the ceiling. The wainscot made of smaller logs and set in patterns forming panels sim ilar to the bamboo work of the Japanese. A shelf surmounts the wainscot and runs around the room. Shelves over doors also. A balcony runs down a part of right side and across the back this is supported by columns of rough logs. Around balcony runs balustrade made of small rustic logs. Doors, arch and windows as per diagram. Furniture made of rustic work and some pieces of the Minnesota Green Grass furniture. The entire scene decorated in Amer ican, Indian materials and handiwork. PKOPEETIES. Down R. (on scene) Shelves over wainscot doors and seat; grass, chair over K. c.; seat against wall and steps up R. c.; tabourette and Indian basket down R v up R. c. small tree in bucket; small table; arm chair. Up L c. piano and stool; small tree in bucket; small chair. Below door L. 1 E. tabourette and palm in basket; green grass table; rustic saw-horse with three large logs. Down L. Mantel shelf 3 4 HER LORD AND MASTER over fireplace; large black fire irons; fire logs; shovel L., tongs and poker (hanging on fire place). Down L. Large armchair (back to audience). On scene- over shelf B. Ram's head; over door B. deer head; over mantel L., large black bear's skin; c., large deer head; c., large Indian plaque down L. On shelf down B. Drapery, 2 pieces Indian embroi dery, Indian basket, Indian bowl. On shelf (over door B.) Two Indian baskets, water- bottle, two Indian leggins, small drapery. On shelf (over seat) drapery, Indian basket, small pottery. On, seat B. c. Cushion, mountain lion skin, 4 green pillows, Home Journal, paper covered novel. Hanging on lower balcony Large green Indian drapery, small red-beaded collar. Hanging on upper balcony (over seat) Yellow East Indian brocade. On platform and steps 2 Navaho Indian rugs. On, column at angle of stairs Indian head dress. On balcony c. Deer head, with beaded jacket above it. 2 Serapio Indian rugs draped either side of deer head. Red and black Navaho rug draped at extreme L. end of balcony. On table up B. of arch c. Books, magazines, papers, etc. In chair up B, of arch c. -Cushions, pillows. HER LORD AND MASTER 5 On piano Up L. of arch c. Mountain lion skin pottery and baskets. On table below door L. 2 E. Tray, glasses, vase of flowers. On mantel down L. Indian drapery upper end Indian, plaques, baskets, embroideries, bead work. Pottery hanging down from lower edge moccasins, quiver, war club and arrows. In arm chair L. Pillow, Indian war clubs, mocca sins, etc., hanging from brackets of torches. 3 large rugs arranged as per diagram. Fur rugs in front of fireplace and seat E. c. Large Rus sian seat (rustic) hanging by black iron chain over L. c. On, seat Green cushion, pillow and lion skin. 2 or 3 magazines are thrown on the floor under this seat. NOTE : This seat is hung from gridiron by ropes, the chains only going through ceiling (the holes being protected by 2 Indian baskets.) 2 iron legs are put on the end toward center of the stage, 16 in. long and are hidden from audience by lion skin. When hung the legs swing free from the stage, but prevent ropes stretching too much by supporting any heavy weight. On balcony, Veranda up c. 2 veranda chairs table with palms. Upper part of veranda cov ered with vines. Ground cloth covers entire stage, representing plained boards. SIDE PROPERTIES. Off R. Large potato in. handkerchief (STILLWATER). White Rose (INDIANA). 6 HER LORD AND MASTER Of L. 2 guns (ladies) INDIANA. The other gun used by both CANNING and STAFFORD. Lunch bas ket with champagne bottle (FLASH). Glass pitcher of water (KiTTY). Dress cloths B. 2 E. B. 3 E., L. 2 E. Green curtains at arch c. Win dows in gable, windows B. and L. of arch c. LIGHT PLOT ACT I AT EISE. House about one-half up. 1st border down, white foots down, white sidelights down. Amber foots full up. White bunches B. 1 and 2 E. L. 2 E. 2 amber strips (B. and L.) and back of arch c., up full. Amber strip (c.) back of veranda rail up full. Blue strips (c) back of veranda rail up off. Amber calcium on drop from E. Rose, calcium on drop from L. Lamps in lanterns ready to be turned on from switch at back of B. column of veranda. Lamps in torches on balcony ready to be turned on from switch on back of scene, off L. 2 E. Fire in fire- log L. 1 E. As soon as curtain is fairly up 1st border and white foots and side tights up full. Cue At exit of LOBD STAFFORD 1st border works down slowly. Cue At entrance of "GLEN" Amber foots work off; red foots work on. Cue At exit of "LORD CANNING" White foots and side lights begin to work down; amber cal cium B. change to rose; amber strips work off. Cue at exit of "GLEN" White foots and side lights down, to a glow. Blue calciums B. and L. worked on 1st R V then when full that on L. Cue When calciums are full blue blue strip on. HER LORD AND MASTER 7 Cue Shortly after exit of "INDIANA" "KITTY" en ters L. 2 E. and as she turns on switch up L. c. torches are turned and white foots; side lights and 1st border come up full. "KITTY" goes directly to column of veranda up R. c. and turns switch connecting lanterns; on ver anda. (NOTE: Rose colored lamps in lanterns and torches.) Design for torch and bracket. Torch representing a pine knot. Flame shaped globe. Rose colored lamp. Black iron bracket. MUSIC. Trio, "Foxhunters' March" once. CUKTAIK 1 shot off L. 3 E. Lights go up. Entrance of KITTY E. 2 E. FLASH c. from L. KITTY, black gown, white collar and cuffs, apron and cap. FLASH, corduroy suit, basket. (1 shot heard (distant) as soon as curtain up, enter from outside, L. u. E. to c. arch FLASH, a typ ical English cockney valet carries a lunch bas ket, puts it down c. KITTY enters from upstairs B. 1 E. and looks over at FLASH. A pretty pert young Eastern servant girl) KITTY, (going to table up L.) How d'ye, Mr. Flash? FLASH, (c., with a smile, bows and with effort at politeness, raises his hat) Miss Kitty A fine day's 8 HER LORD AND MASTER sport. I've never seen 'is Lordship in such good temper for 12 consecutive hours before, and theer h' appetites, bless them the victuals have vanished and they've drained the bottles, (takes a bottle from basket and turns it upside down) KITTY, (arranging flowers) So the Lordships are enjoying themselves, eh? Well it was a lucky day for them when they fell in with the Stillwaters. We are celebrated for being magnificent entertain ers, (arranging flowers in vase) FLASH, (coming down c.) It is a big thing, as you say in H'America to be 'unting and 'unting for miles and miles and still be 'unting on your own 'unting grounds. KITTY, (with a toss of her head) This wilder ness is nothing You should see Mr. Stillwater in his office in Chicago a king of railroad magnates. FLASH, (puzzled) A Magnate? KITTY. Thafs an electric power that attracts metals. (KiTTY arranges drapery on mantel and pillow in chair down L) FLASH. No wonder he's so rich. I say Kitty 'Ow much 'is 'e estimated at say say two hun dred thousand pounds? three? five? KITTY, (going to FLASH, contemptuously) Mr. Flash, you are a nice young man but you're very inexperienced (x'ing B. arranges pillows on seat and chair E.) A man who knows how rich he is is not a rich man in America. He's only well off Mr. Stillwater has reached that stage where money is never even mentioned Now the ladies Miss In diana, her mother and grandmother have a camp in the Adirondacks much handsomer than this. A villa in Newport and there is talk about building a stunner in New York. So in the future when they say in America a man's rich you will under stand he is not limited to figures (Enter MR. HER LORD AND MASTER 9 STILLWATER, a typical American gentleman of about 40, hearty and unaffected. He is in negligee costume, shows good breeding, with a touch of inde pendent spirit, looks off L. at back) (KiTTY sees MR. STILLWATER who enters from back at R.) Oh Mr. Stillwater. (FLASH stands aghast listening with open mouth) He's an American gentleman. He is free and easy with everyone. (FLASH makes a movement to run off) (KiTTY contemptuously) Don't run, he won't bite you MR. STILLWATER. (coming down c.) Folks home yet, Kitty? KITTY. The hunting party, sir? No sir, Lord Stafford's valet has just come in. (x'ing L. and up L. 2 and exit) MR. STILLWATER. Ah! (looks at FLASH who stands bowing and scraping in contrast to KITTY'S independent fearless manner) MR. STILLWATER. (down L. sits) What sport? FLASH. A magnificant day sir, Partridges as thick as rabbits sir. (Enter KITTY with tray, pitcher of water and glasses. KITTY puts a big glass pitcher of ice water on table, pours out a glass and takes to MR. STILLWATER who takes a long draught as MRS. STILLWATER enters, a very young woman attired in rich dinner dress R. 1 E. up steps. MRS. S. anticipates her first speech and enters during following lines, but only in time to reach lower steps and speak 1st line) MR. STILLWATER. (taking him in) What's your name? FLASH. Flash, sir: Lord Nelson Stafford's man, sir. MR. S. Where do you hail from? (FLASH puz zled) What's your birthplace? 10 . HER LORD AND MASTER FLASH. Oh! Devonshire, sir. Devonshire H'England, sir. MR. S. Devonshire's a great farming country. What do you think of my model farms? FLASH. I'm an expert on farms and I've never seen its equal even in Devonshire. (MR. STILL WATER laughs a hearty gratified laugh) MRS. STILL WATEE. (1st speech) Indiana not home yet? FLASH, (bowing and scraping) Their Lordships and the young lady is acomin' along, mum. Their Lordships h'are h'admiring the scenery. ( KITTY behind bows and scrapes in pantomime imitating FLASH who exits. KITTY follows him with a toss of her head, and a look at MRS. STILLWATER who laughs) (KITTY leaves water, etc., on table L.) MRS. S. (on the stairs) I shouldn't care to have that man in my employ. He's too obsequious. MR. S. (laughing) That's English, you know. I must confess he's a little too crawly for my taste. (going c.) Bess, I'll have something to show at the next county fair that'll make the neighboring farmers look rather small potatoes, (opens handker chief and shows a very large potato) MRS. S. (coming to MR. S. c.) Fred, you are working on that farm as if your living depended on it. MR. S. (L. of c. seriously) My living does de pend on it. I should have been under the ground now if I had not taken to out-door life. I've sat in my office and doubled my capital without turning a hand but that's the pace that kills. MRS. S. (R. of c.) Fred. MR. S. Don't be so anxious, I'm all right. I consider every potato that costs me ten dollars to raise, equivalent to a doctor's pill. Dear heart, how sweet you look. The country air and quiet life HER LORD AND MASTER 11 haven't done you any harm either. Do you remember, Bess, a wavy field of wheat and an audacious young lover who wouldn't take no for an answer. We had some happy days in Indiana. MBS. S. (with a sigh) Yes: The early struggle Avas hard, and when our little baby girl came, our Indiana, everything seemed to prosper with us. I've tried to deserve it all. (head on MR. S.'s shoul der) MR. S. (takes her face between his hands) "A. sweeter woman ne'er drew breath" "Than my dear wife Elizabeth." (Jcisses her) (Enter GRANDMA CHAZY BUNKER R. 1 E. up steps; a woman of 50 or thereabouts, white hair very artistically arranged, looks 35, very lively man ner and very youthful. Elegantly dressed for dinner.) MRS. B. (on steps) Break away, (dryly coming between MR. and MRS. S.) Young lovers sober down. You have a daughter in the matrimonial market. MR. S. (puts his arm about MRS. BUNKER and gives her a hearty smack, as he swings her to his left) Eoses and lilies (R. arm around MR. S.) (L. arm around MRS. B.) If I were not quite sure you were my wife's mother I'd never guess your age within twenty years. How old are you anyhow, Grandma ? MRS. B. (rather sharply, x'ing to L. c.) Oh, come off! That's none of your business, Fred. While I feel young and look young, the years I've lived don't count, (x'ing to fire L.) MRS. S. (putting her arm about MRS. B.) Don't mind Fred's jokes, mother. (MRS. B. laughs good- naturedly) 12 HER LORD AND MASTER MR. S. How long are those English friends of yours going to stay? MRS. B. (L. c.) I'm sure I don't know. Lord Stafford is a devoted sportsman and his nephew, Lord Canning is piling in information about the country. Ha, ha, ha! I can't help guying Lord Stafford. He looks at me with those owl eyes of his (closes her eyes and opens them again very slowly and widely to imitate LORD STAFFORD) and takes all my jokes for solemn earnest MR. S. You will flirt, Grandma. MRS. B. I will, while there's a breath left in my body, (to fire) MRS. S. (R. c. anxiously) Grandma, you are not thinking of marrying again. MRS. B. (laughingly) I'm not the only marriage able candidate in the house. MR. S. (startled) Mother, keep your match mak ing hands off Indiana I won't have it. MRS. B. (L. sweetly) Wouldn't you like to see Indiana, Lady Canning? MRS. S. No mother, no! MR. S. (c.) My girl's a good little yankee and she shan't emigrate. Yes, there are rich emigrants and poor emigrants and it's leaving your own country bag and baggage England's got the flower of our women already. (MRS. S. sits on seat R.) MRS. B. You talk like a back-woodsman. You've never been abroad. MR. S. (up to arch c.) No. You can do the globe trotting for the family. Is there anything better than this in Europe? Those Englishmen are wild over the place. Well hit me between the eyes with the Jungfrau but I've got the Rockies only a stone's throw away. I can see all the snow I want there. Where can you see another Niagara or a HER LORD AND MASTER 13 Yellowstone Park or a stretch of Balsam Woods like the Adirondacks or a (down R.) MRS. B. My dear Fred, your Spread-Eagle-ism is wasted on me. You can be sure of one thing when Indiana marries we won't be consulted. She'll please herself. Ah! Lord Stafford! (greets LORD STAFFORD who enters c. from L. a typical English man about 60, very aristocratic and rather stiff, in hunting costume with a gun. FLASH enters L. u. E. and takes gun and exits at once L. u. E.) NOTE : This gun will also do for LORD CANNING. LORD STAFFORD, (c.) A most enjoyable day's sport, Mrs. Bunker. MRS. B. (L.) Did you find the country interest ing? LORD S. Very. Life here is a decided novelty. (2 shots off L. 3 E.) When you invited us to rough it with you in the backwoods, we did not expect all this (x'ing down, L. in front of swing to fire with MRS. B.) MRS. B. I assure you, Lord Stafford, we consider this camping out. (LORD STAFFORD greets MR. and MRS. S. Outside a laugh as INDIANA, a girl of 18, in becoming hunting costume, enters laughing heartily, fol lowed by THURSTON, LORD CANNING, about 40, L. to c.) (FLASH enters L. u. E., x's to R. of arch takes guns and exits L. u. E.) THURS. (outside) Bravo! Bravo! (ad lib as they enter) (L. of c. up) You've brought -down the last bird, Miss SWZwater. INDIANA. Not Stittw&ter Still water (takes out 14 HER LORD AND MASTER cartridge shell and throws it away, gives gun to FLASH and brushes dress) THURS. Stillwater. Thank you very much, (gives- gun to FLASH) Mr. Stillwater, we've had a charm ing day Mrs. Stillwater you daughter has taken me in hand. I am beginning to acquire the West ern burr but your wonderful idioms I am afraid I shall never (FLASH exits with guns L. u. E.) INDIANA, (x'ing down R. c.) (saucily) Don't be afraid. I'm a good teacher and you're not so very stupid. Now suppose you saw a chubby little part ridge over there in the long grass, and as a good Westerner you intend to bag him what would you say THURS. I should say I'm afraid the little beg gar's out of gun shot but I'll try IND. (R. c.) That's not American to be afraid. THURS. (c.) No you'd guess IND. What ! / guess, when there's game to bring down? Never! (raising her gun and leveling it at THUHSTON) I'd just bag him. Afraid? THURS. (meaningly) No! Ready and eager to be sacrificed, (looks straight at her} MRS. S. (on seat R.) Are you tired, Indiana? IND. Not a bit give me a kiss Bess! (sits by MRS. S. kisses her) There, Freddie's jealous! (exit R. and kisses MR. S.) MRS, S. She's trying to get round you Fred. Beware! (x's to c. making a circle to stairs and exits speaking in dumb show to LORD T. as she goes off R. 2 E.) IND. (pulls MR. S.'s head down) Glen's been horrid all day. He's jealous, (laughs a girlish heartless laugh as MR. S. exits R. 1 E. laughing) MRS. B. (sits on swing L. c.) What have you found most interesting in the States, Lord Staf ford? HER LORD AND MASTER 15 LORD. S. (L.) Well I should say MRS. B. (quickly) Don't be afraid to commit yourself you hate to make a positive assertion. LORD S. Quite so, Mrs. Bunker. I think more slowly than you and you have asked me quite a difficult question. IND. (R. who has been taking off jacket assisted by LORD T. He puts in on L. end of seat R.) I'll answer it for you. Lord Stafford (to c.) You have come west ostensibly to shoot things, and your nephew for scientific purposes, ostensibly, but you spend night after night over your brandy and soda discussing the American woman, (c. to R.) LORD S. (L. The two men look at each other and burst into a laugh) Remarkable! THURS. (c.) (laughing heartily) How did you find us out? LORD S. Are you not both very remarkable wo men (INDIANA and MRS. B. look at each other and burst into laughter) IND. (R.) Lord Stafford, I assure you, I'm a very ordinary person! THURS. (to INDIANA) I dispute that statement, Miss Btillwater. MRS. B. (on seat L. c.) You'll find women like me all over the states you see we don't become old before our time to make way for the girls. I had a daughter to rear and I did it as well as I knew how then I superintended my granddaugh ter's training now she's a woman I'm commenc ing all over again on my own account ha ! ha ! ha ! LORD S. Remarkable! Bewildering! THURS. Charming charming I assure you. (up c. with INDIANA) LORD S. Charming! Oh yes, charming! MRS. B. (making room for LORD S. on swing, 16 HER LORD AND MASTER who sits L. of her) How is it that a good catch like you has escaped the matrimonial anglers so long? LORD S. (pulling his mustache, very much amused) MRS. B. (confidentially) Now why don't you marry? LOED S. (with a gasp, rising) Er er I'm rather sensitive about answering such personal questions my own sister never asked me that she asked me if I should marry but never why never why I did not marry! MRS. B. (sweetly) You'll tell me, won't you? LOED S. Ah! By George I declare I've never even asked myself that question. MBS. B. (rising) Well! ask it quick! Start an investigating committee and find out something about yourself. You don't know how long you are going to live, (x'ing to steps up B.) LOED S. Mrs. Bunker, one never knows what you are going to say next, (goes up L. of swing to c.) Most remarkable woman, your grandmother. (as he exits c. to L.) MRS. B. (on stairs over rail to INDIANA) Good hunting, Indiana? IND. (with a comprehensive look at LOBD STAF FORD) Good hunting, Grandma Chazy (exit MRS. B. with a laugh B. 2 E.) IND. (x'ing to table L., getting a drink from pitcher and glass looking at him quizzically) You see we know our Kipling are you going to put me in your book? Am I the type of American woman you will describe? (down to fireplace) THUBS. (to B. end of swing) I am not going to put you in my book. I am going well never mind you are not the type you are a type HER LORD AND MASTER 17 IND. (with quick intelligence) That's so ! The States are too large for any one distinctive type of woman. But we all have that "up and doing kind of spirit/' you call it, "nervous activity." The Southern girl is neutrally active the Eastern girl aggressively active. THURS. And the Western girl IND. Judge for yourself THURS. (with humor, taking her in) Physically a light weight. IND. But strong. I can climb a tree, vault a fence, ride a horse bare-back, straddle or side-saddle. THURS. And mentally? IND. (x'ing to swing) Flexible I have an enor mous faculty of devouring literature, good, bad and indifferent I love music and painting. THURS. Character undeveloped ? IND. Perhaps ! But I have decided political views. I am an expansionist. I believe in the imperialistic policy in annexation in stretching out and grab bing everything I can get. (gesture to suit words) THURS. Bravo! You are the most interesting IND. (sitting) (interrupting) As a study or as a woman. THURS. (close to R. end of swing over INDIANA) When I cease to study your imperfection I com mence to love them I GLEN. (A young American about 21 handsome, straightforward a little rough in manner but very honest) (Enter c. from L., x's down back of swing) Indiana ! (holds in his hand a dead bird) IND. (rises, taking it. THURSTON over R.) Oh! Glen the poor little thing: It is quite warm how cruel. I'll never shoot another bird as long as I live, (puts her cheek down to dead bird GLEN takes bird) Oh! we're very proud of Glen Lord Canning He's a character he hates cities 18 HER LORD AND MASTER GLEN, (c.) I do sir, but I'm not out of the swim. I keep myself posted on the politics and lit erature of the world I fought for my country in the Spanish-American war and when it was over I came, like Cincinnatus, back to the plow. Indiana I'd like a few words with you when you are at lib erty, (x's up B. c. and puts down bird and game bag) THUBS. Miss Stillwater. (bows and goes up slow ly, looks back at GLEN with a comprehensive smile, exits E. 1 E.) IND. (looking after THUBSTON thoughtfully) He's a dear. He never asks prying questions and he's never in the way. GLEN, (down c.) Too slow for me I suppose you must have somebody to flirt with. IND. (half to herself half to GLEN L. c.) Per haps I'm in earnest this time. GLEN. Indy, don't talk like that. While you're single I shall never give up hope. IND. (sweetly) If s a waste of time, Glen. GLEN, (c.) (passionately) Why! Indy why! Do you know any handsomer fellow than I? Or some one who could love you better? As for money I could launch you as fine as the next one now what's in the way? IND. (undecidedly) You haven't the modern im provements I must marry a man of the world I want to live in the world. Besides we are both undeveloped, (x'ing E. c., taking off hat, puts it with coat) GLEN, (scornfully) Modern improvements I can buy a complete outfit of them at a fashionable tailor's. IND. I don't want that kind, (takes pillow from L. end of seat, puts it with others B. end takes up Home Journal and sits comfortably against pil lows) HER LORD AND MASTER 19 GLEN. As for the other essentials, which make up what you call a "man of the world," I don't consider I am not a man until I have conquered no end of women, and have their broken hearts for trophies like an Indian with a string of scalps. I love one woman and I want her for my wife, and if she won't have me well, I'll not give up until I see her tied pretty tight to another man. (L. end of seat) IND. Poor Glen. I am not worthy of such devo tion. GLEN. I know you've got faults enough. But I love you all the better for them. IND. (impatiently throws down paper, rises and stamping her foot) Everybody loves my faults that's the trouble with me. If I could only find a man who would hate them and try to cure them, (sits chair down B. c.) GLEN, (following her) I couldn't be harsh with you Indy if you killed me, I'd die blessing you. You nearly did for me once (x'ing c.) IND. What GLEN, (c.) You were too young to know bet ter. IND. (fiercely) Glen, what wasn't my fault What did I do? You shall tell me. (rises) GLEN. Now, don't get in a temper IND. (quickly) Glen, if you don't tell me I I'll box your ears I vow I will, (movement as if to do so) Oh, I didn't mean that, but don't tease me tell me please. GLEN, (c.) Do you see that (pushing back his hair from his right temple) IND. (intensely) Yes a deep white scar. GLEN. You did that (INDIANA recoils in hor ror) You threw a pair of scissors at me in one of your tantrums. 20 HER LORD AND MASTER IND. Oh! no! no! no! GLEN. You were too young to realize what you had done. They took you away so the sight of the blood shouldn't frighten you. IND. (agitatedly) Oh! Glen! Glen! How could I and you're always so good. You never even hated me for it. Oh Glen, (in childish grief, pit- eously} forgive me, forgive me! (takes his head in her hands and kisses the scar impulsively) GLEN, (holding her fiercely) Indy, is there a chance for me? IND. No! (he drops her and recoils) My poor Glen, I hate to hurt you, but I want to be honest with you and myself. GLEN. Try me let us be engaged for a little while and then if you can't love me IND. Glen, I do love you, dear, I've loved you all my life. GLEN, (slightly L. c.) I don't mean that way, Indy. IND. (perplexed) I I'm too young for any other way yet. (up R. c.) GLEN, (fiercely) You're going to marry that Englishman ? IND. He hasn't asked me. Promise me that you will never say anything to him about the scissors. (pointing to scar) GLEN, (reproachfully) Indy I never thought of it myself since then I'm sorry I told you, if IND. I'm glad you told me but it hurt right here, (points her hand to her heart) GLEN. Indy IND. Now I'm blue, but I'll get over it. To think I could hurt you or anybody like that it's too horrible too horrible! (throws herself down on bench as MRS. B. enters c. from R.) 21 GLEN, (boyishly, throws himself on swing) It's all over. She won't have me. MRS. B. (gently over GLEN L. c.) It would be the very worst thing in the world for both of you. GLEN, (bitterly) I know you were always influ encing Indiana against me. MRS. B. You and Indiana have been thrown to gether. You love her because you know her better than other girls. In a few years you will laugh at your boyish infatuation, (down L.) IND. Grandma, how can you be so unsympathetic. Glen does love me. He'll never love anybody else, will you Glen? (R. c.) GLEN, (to her) Never! Indiana, say you'll think it over. I'll do anything you say. I'll go in for politics, or trusts or theatricals or anything you want. I'll be a great man somehow, if you only say you'll try to love me. (half sobbing) IND. I do love you. GLEN, (takes her in his arms) There, we're en gaged now. IND. (giving in) Well then, between ourselves. Just for a trial to see if I can stand you always. GLEN. I agree any conditions anything We'll keep it a secret from everybody but I must tell the Englishman. IND. Oh, no you mustn't say a word to him. GLEN. All right. I'm satisfied with anything. (puts his arm about her. MRS. B. turns away dis gusted) IND. (shrinks away} There, look at Grandma, she's angry, (x's L. c. to MRS. B.) You were engaged to three at one time when you were young, (turns MRS. B. around) You couldn't make up your mind till Grandpa Bunker met you one day in a field of wheat, snatched you in his arms, and galloped off to the minister then and there. 22 HER LORD AND MASTER MRS. B. Indiana! You will never care as much for Glen as you do this minute. GLEN, (who has x'd to seat B. sitting) Indiana! IND. (x's to GLEN) Oh! I wish I could make up my mind. I hate to see you unhappy, Glen. (sits L. of him) GLEN, (triumphantly) There! (puts his arm around her). MBS. B. (x's up c.) Oh, very well. We'll an nounce it to-night. I'll have no secrecy. IND. (with a gasp, rising) Oh no! MBS. B. Say good-bye to Glen, (up c.) IND. (slowly) Good-bye GLEN. Ah ! IND. Grandma's right. I don't love you. I never will. I don't love anybody. I shall never marry. I hate myself for making you suffer, (sits beside GLEN) (rises, x's to swing) Good-bye, (sits) GLEN. (looTcs at her reproachfully and with a sob x's toward her. MBS. B. steps between, them GLEN turns up c., takes game bag and bird. He meets MBS. STILL WATER up c. and exits with her L. 3 E.) IND. There, now you're satisfied. You've broken his heart. MBS. B. (c.) Don't be theatrical Indy. You know it's simply absurd to think of such a boy. I have better views for you. IND. (x's to chair down L.) Grandma, if I thought you were trying to make up something be tween me and I'd marry Glen offhand, (sits) / know what you mean. A certain Englishman likes my saucy answers but as for anything further he wouldn't condescend to little me. MBS. B. If I could assure you he was in earnest ah, you do like him ! HER LORD AND MASTER 23 IND. (recovering herself, rises) No! No! He's too cold too silent too wrapped up in himself. He would want to be the Master it wouldn't work. ($'ing in front of MRS. B. to R. c., watches MRS. B. slyly) MRS. B. (up c. and over to L., indifferently) Don't worry. They are going away to-morrow. IND. Going away. And he never said a word. There you are what did I tell you, going away, laughing in his sleeves at the little Yankee who amused him for a time, (exhibition of temper) MRS. B. Now I won't listen to you. Oh, what a temper, (over L.) Indiana, go and dress. IND. (with half a sob, sitting on L. end of seat B.) I won't dress. I hate dress. I am tired of every thing. Going away and never said a word to me. I tell you what it is Grandma, I've been treated like a child long enough. (LORD C. enters R. 2 E., comes down stairs part way and overhears remainder of speech. MRS. B. tries to attract INDIANA'S atten tion to his presence but fails) Your English friend shall see that I don't care, (going) A stupid, heart less, logical human machine analyzing me as if I were a frog on a stick. I hate him and the sooner he goes the better. There ! (up R. c. LORD C. has entered R. 2 E. and heard all) THURS. (on stairs above INDIANA) Thank you! IND. (with stifled scream) Oh, the devil! I mean Lord Canning, (puts her hands over her mouth and rushes off. Exit R. 2 E.) LORD C. (to c.) Mrs. Bunker. I hope before the evening's over I shall make her retract those statements, (enter KITTY, turns up lights) MRS. B. (L. of c.) Lord Canning, you have taken me into your confidence and I shall do all in my power to help your cause with Indiana Not be cause of your title we are not title seekers, as you 24 HER LORD AND MASTER have doubtless discovered, but because I feel Indi ana's future will be safe in your hands. LOBD C. Thank you Mrs. Bunker, (shakes hands. Exit MBS. B., after INDIANA) (THURSTON throws himself on swing. LOBD STA.FFOBD enter c., comes down c.) LOBD S. Are you ready to leave to-morrow? THUBS. (on swing) No; but don't let me keep you if you have other plans. LOBD S. (x'ing to fire} Don't you think we are rather trespassing upon the hospitality of these people ? THUBS. (leaning lack comfortably) No. LOBD S. I have no desire to lecture but there is a young girl here, very young and unformed. You have the irreverence of the American character to reckon with which aspires to anything every thing she may get it into her head that THUBS. What? LOBD S. You have matrimonial intentions which would have turned a pleasant visit into a very un pleasant embarrassment. Have I said too much ? THUBS. Not from your point of view, but you have overlooked the unknown quantity in your argu ment which is in this case, the very unexpected I am going to marry Miss Stillwater. LOBD S. Good God! (staring at THUBSTON in horror) THUBS. (quietly watching him) LOBD S. Your mother. " THUBS. I have written to her, telling her I am coming home and will bring her a daughter. LOBD S. You have not consulted her? THUBS. How could I? She knows nothing of the conditions here and I think it will be the best HER LORD AND MASTER 25 plan to let her see Indiana which will be more than half the battle. LORD S. (half offended) You haven't asked my advice. THUES. No! I am acting under a very strong impulse. This is the one thing I have intensely desired in my life and I shall gratify it without reasoning and calculation. Therein lies the charm of the whole affair. LORD S. When do you sail with your wife? THURS. (smiling) My wife I am not even en gaged yet. LORD S. (relieved) Oh! By your assured man ner I thought it was all cut and dried. Thurston, m J by> don't do it. I feel a responsibility. I brought you here. I promised your mother to look to you. This is the unparalleled case of unfitness. The little girl is wild, untrained she calls her mother, Bess THURS. Yes, I know. LORD S. She will disrupt our entire domestic organization. How can she live under the same roof with your mother? Think of it! THURS. I am not going to think of it, Uncle and I ask you not to throw any unpleasant pictures upon my mental canvas. I am going to accept whatever comes and I have a deep conviction that it will all end well. LORD S. (at fire) (contemplatively) If I had reasoned or or not reasoned some 15 years ago There was a girl a girl beneath me in station she loved me. I thought it over one night then I left England. I sometimes think it would have been better to have married the girl. There would have been something at least this way there is nothing THURS. (x's to Mm) That's my case exactly. I'm getting on. This idea has taken my fancy. If 26 HER LORD AND MASTER I do not accomplish it I shall go on like you and there will be nothing in it until the end of the chapter, (x's c.) LOED C. I shall not sail with you and your wife. I shall plunge a little deeper into the primeval for ests of America and shall consider myself an exile from my native land until I am assured that the domestic rumblings have subsided, (starts off c.) THUBS. (laughs) Domestic rumblings. LORD S. (goes to door L., stops) There is an other alarming possibility. This matrimonial con nection will leave me at the mercies of Grandma Chazy (exit c. to R.) THUES. (laughs and x's to front of seat, enter MES. STILLWATER, c. from L.) MRS. S. (c.) I'm so sorry so very sorry for Glen. THURS. Our young Romeo seemed depressed to day. Luck's against him I'm afraid. MRS. S. (sighs) Glen has always been like a son to me and I hoped it would be some day. (sighs) THURS. He's a fine fellow, but pardon me, he's not the right husband for your daughter. MRS. S. He understands her better than a stran ger, he'd get along with her I'm sure, (x's to seat R.) THURS. Is it so difficult to get along with her? MRS. (quickly) Oh, I didn't mean that there's nobody more lovable and easy if she's studied (turns to him) THURS. (quietly) What do you think of me as a husband for your daughter? MRS. S. (with a gasp sits) Lord Canning, you are not in earnest? THURS. Why not? I should like to take my HER LORD AND MASTER 27 place in the matrimonial competition if you've no objection, (sits beside her) MRS. S. What objection can I have to a man like you? But I'm not the one to be consulted. Whatever Indy decides I must be satisfied with. Oh dear! dear! THUES. (rises, x's to c.) Mrs. Stillwater, the idea is evidently very disagreeable to you? MRS. S. Oh no ! Not at all, but Indy's so young and you live so far away and she's so unfit to be alone but don't consider me I have nothing what ever to say. (enter MR. STILLWATER R. 1 E., she goes to him quietly and quickly} Father! Father! (in a half whisper) Lord Canning wants to marry Indy (MR. STILLWATER is in evening dress) MR. S. (composedly) Does he? Too bad too bad MRS. S. (x's to steps) (about to exit) THURS. (x's to her) Why not stay and help me out? MRS. S. (agitatedly) Oh, I really must go Indy's waiting for me. I never let anyone do any thing for her I always do everything myself she get's cross if I don't and I love to do it. THURS. (quietly) You do not approve of me, Mrs. Stillwater. (MR. S. sits on seat E.) MRS. S. (tremulously) I do I like you very much you're such a nice, modest man for your position will you will you wait awhile and think it over before you ask Indy? THURS. (in clear decided tones) I have thought it over well. I know this is rather unusual but for the life of me I couldn't ask a young woman to marry me until I was quite sure I would be accept able to her parents. MRS. S. (quickly) You are but it will be a 28 HER LORD AND MASTER great trial to lose her that's what I was thinking of only that, (exits B. 2 E.) MB. S. (on seat) Mother is naturally upset when she thinks of our little girl getting married. Marry ing young runs in our family my wife was sixteen and Grandma Chazy only fifteen when she mar ried there's always somebody wanting to marry Indiana but she's never been serious about any one. THUBS. (up E. c. smiling) If I could make her serious about me, would you object? MB. S. (dryly) Why should I? I don't have to live with you. THUBS. (taking him very seriously) There's no possible necessity for that. MR. S. (chuckles, THUBSTON very grave) I know I ought to feel very much honored, Lord Canning, but I haven't got to that stage of Imperialism although my mother-in-law is a fiend that way American women generally are. They're natural Imperialists. They head a despotic monarchy at home ha! ha! ha! THUBS. Mr. Stillwater, I hope you do not con sider my title against me. (x'ing to c.) MB. S. (rising) Oh, not at all not at all! It might help you with Indiana. It would be a new fad for her you know we all have our fads Per sonally I like you. THUBS. Thank you! MB. S. You're welcome! I like you very much but (during this MB. STILL WATEB shows a lit tle embarrassment, as if he wanted to convey some thing to THUBSTON, x's to him and puts his hand kindly on THUBSTOX'S shoulder) I want to give you a quiet piece of advice and if you don't take it I want you to consider it was never said will you? HER LORD AND MASTER 29 THUES. I will sir ME. S. Don't marry my daughter THUES. (looking squarely at him) Why? ME. S. It'll never pan out your ways are not her ways, her thoughts and yours are as far apart as if she spoke Chinese and you Pennsylvania Dutch. THUES. (c.) Mr. Still water, I am not easily frightened, the more difficulties I encounter the more determined I am to win. ME. S. (E. c.) (quickly) Now don't misunder stand me my daughter's no worse than any other man's daughter our women are all alike, but we know how to get along with them, (chuckling) I contrived to live with my wife, my mother-in-law and my daughter. All different dispositions, with out quarreling. THUES. Yes, I have observed and admired the equilibrium of your household. It may be very val uable to me to know how you manage it. Will you let me into the secret, Mr. Stillwater? ME. S. He ! He ! He ! easy enough I give in THUES. You give in ME. S. Every time. THUES. I don't believe that I understand you? ME. S. I never stand out against them, so they can't quarrel with me, and when they quarrel be tween themselves I agree with each one separately. THUES. (x'ing to swing quietly) I'm afraid I could not adopt that method (sits) MB. S. (quickly) There, I told you it wouldn't do. The fact is, Lord Canning, we spoil our chil dren, we know it, but we can't help it the boys are early enough thrown on the world, (x's to c.) But the girls, the pretty little delicate girls how can you help spoiling them. You should have seen Indy a doll you could have put her in a quart 80 HER LORD AND MASTER pitcher she'd roll up her little sleeves and fight me with her pink fists we'd' roar at her. As she grew up, it grew with her, and now when she gets in a temper we all scatter till it's over, and then she creeps underneath your coat like a little white mouse, and loves you so with her pretty hands and her soft face what can a man do? (to R. c.) THUKS. (reflectively) You began early to make a rough road for your daughter's future husband, didn't you? MR. S. Oh, no every man I know is under his wife's thumb and is proud of it. (Enter INDIANA E. 2 E. soft white muslin dress the picture of girlish loveliness and sweetness) IND. (down c.) Lord Canning, why so serious? THURS. (laughs embarrassed) Oh Miss Still- water, pardon me IND. Suppose you let me into this secret dis cussion, if it's not snow and ice and the North Pole, I know more about it than you, Lord Canning, and if it's not railroads I know more about it than you, Pa (x's to ME. S., he kisses her) MR. S. (dryly) I guess I'll let you fight it out with Indiana, (x's to door R. 1 E.) IND. Why pop (STILL WATER exits R. 1 E.) THURS. (bashfully) We were discussing many things the training of children marriage, etc. IND. (R. c.) (with a laugh) Marriage with Pa he's absolutely ignorant on the subject. THURS. Remarkable, considering he's nineteen years married. IND. (contemptuously) Oh, that was only a boy and girl affair in Indiana. In those days it was a young man a farm a wife to do the housework and they always lived happily (x's to fire) HER LORD AND MASTER 31 THURS. I wish it were as simple a matter with you as with your mother. IND. I'm different from mother, if I were not you would not THURS. What? (x's to her) IND. (slyly) Oh nothing. Didn't you want to say something? THURS. I did I do but my courage has left me, I feel as when I once stood before an impenetra ble territory of snow and ice leading I knew not whither. IND. I hope you're not as cold? THURS. Outwardly perhaps, inwardly burning I want to to er to (as if changing the subject) You know the customs in England are very differ ent from here. IND. (watching him slyly) Are they? THURS. We conceal more than you (signifi cantly) We don't wear our hearts on our sleeves. IND. We do THURS. Yes, I was looking for yours (INDIA NA turns away He comes closer to her) Shall I be the next one? IND. What next one? (!ND. turns away) THURS. Men to you are like large correspon dence, which is read carelessly, "answered" scrib bled on the envelopes, and piled away into pigeon holes forgotten IND. (sweetly) I always throw old letters away, I never accumulate rubbish, (to chair L.) THURS. (seriously) (following her) Indiana I am a very serious man; I accept life as worth liv ing only with serious aims. I have traveled all over the world in the cause of science, especially in the unpeopled vasts. It does seem inconsistent, does it not, that a little undeveloped creature like you should attract me so strongly? 32 HER LORD AND MASTER IND. Oh no! It's not at all strange everybody likes me! THUKS. (smiles then, seriously) Your little hands have bowled over all my long cherished tra ditions. You have taken possession of me in a manner which terrifies me. I am miserable away from you; you flit before me like a tantalizing will- o'-the-wisp my pen is idle, my mail lies upon my table unanswered. Tell me have I a chance with you? or let me put the ocean between us for self preservation. IND. (x'ing to swing) I do not wish you to think that I trifle with marriage, because I have refused several offers, it is not waywardness nor frivolity, but because I realize my shortcomings, (sits with a half saucy, half serious laugh) THUKS. (to L. of swing) Indiana! IND. (seriously) You admit in your feelings for me reason has no place, and in your calmer mo ments, your ideal of a wife is something entirely different from myself. THUKS. Yes reason has no place it is love love alone IND. It's hard to be truthful about one's defects but I am very much spoiled THUKS. You have all the imperfections which make you charming to a lover you have all the vir tues which make you divine to your husband. IND. (keeping him off) I must have my own way, even when I know I'm wrong I'm fond of change nothing pleases me long. I'm quick tempered, spiteful, revengeful, and I'm always sorry for it afterwards, always THUKS. I have watched you closely, I have seen glimpses of splendid feeling and heart in you, other conditions will develop the good that is in you HER LORD AND MASTER 33 IND. Somehow my worst qualities always come to the surface my people are afraid of me THURS. (taking her hand) My mother will help you, dear She is a type of perfect English wo manhood. She has lived a retired life for many years. Our house may be quiet for you at first IND. Oh, don't worry about that, I'll make it lively enough. THURS. (attempts to embrace her) Darling! IND. (rising to c.) Wait I" have not said yes yet. THURS. (follows her) What more? IND. Promise me this, when I want to do incon sistent things and have my own way when it's not good for me promise me no matter how much you love me that you won't give in. THURS. I'm afraid I shall let you do anything you want IND. (turning away) Then I won't marry you. THURS. Yes you will, (takes Tier hand, turning her back to him, hands on her arms} IND. You are the first man I have ever taken seriously. There's something about you different from us THURS. Ha! Ha! Ha! What does it matter, the difference? Do you love me? IND. No. (THURSTON drops her hands, x's to L. c. IND. goes to R. end of swing) I'm tired of the model farm I'm tired of Grandma Chazy I'm tired of Washington and New York and I want to go to England (THURSTON turns disappointedly and gradually turns back during the following) I I feel sometimes that marriage to me must mean the changing of every condition or I won't make a success of my life and I want to be something more than what I am something better, (quickly) And I wouldn't marry you if I did not think I could love you some day. (down c.) 3 34 HER LORD AND MASTER THUKS. (quickly taking her hand) I believe in the love which comes after marriage given a fairly matched pair, the man the stronger, and there's no danger. IND. And you'll promise? THURS. I promise no matter how much I suffer, I won't give in IND. Good. (THURSTON embraces and kisses her she pulls away saying) Oh Dear! (she arranges her dress, then goes to steps R. 2 E., turns and speaks) Now let's go and tell the folks. Shall we? (THURSTON rushes to her, kisses her hand and both start to exit up steps R.) CURTAIN PROPERTY PLOT. Acts II, HI, IV. Same scene for all acts. An old English Interior Library in LORD CANNING'S London House dating from the early 17 th Century. High wainscot (7 feet), paneled in old oak, above which hang old Gobelin tapestries. Doors are set deeply into wainscot. They are heavy, mas sive affairs with handsome knobs and finger plates. On the right side is a door down stage R. 1 E., a large mantelpiece R. 2 E. and a door B. 3 E. On the left are two large doors (double doors) which swing off stage. Above doors on either side is a heavy column (oak) supporting a large beam which runs diagonally across ceiling and together with columns, form a large arch. HER LORD AND MASTER 35 On either side and back of this arch across corners are two large bookcases set into wain scot with gauzed doors in front of property case and books. At back and parallel to large arch a smaller arch, with heavy carved casing and lintel and with about 2 feet of wainscot on either side. Through this arch is seen a large recessed window, with seat and glass door win dows above it. These glass doors opening on stage. The seat is raised upon a platform which projects in front of arch about 2 feet. The mantel B. 2 E. is about 12 feet high with shelf supported by heavy columns, 5 ft. 6 in. high and above this an old portrait set into upper mantel. The entire scene should be rich and massive, giving the impression that it is very old, in magnificent condition and that there is great wealth in the family who own it. In coloring it is a rich brown oak with trimmings of Gobelin tapestries. Carpet over entire room, covering step at back. Rich dark red curtains at arch same color as carpet. Furniture of old oak covered with Flemish tapestry. Backs of furni ture and seats upholstered only arms and legs showing in wood, and those splendidly carved. Large library table in center of room, should be very handsomely carved and massive. Fur niture arranged as per diagram consists of: Large table c.; arm chair B. of table; small chair L. of table; large sofa down E. c. (seat 3) small sofa up B. c. (seat 2) ; arm chair up B. or arch c.; small chair up L. of arch c.; small chair above door L. 1 E. On table c. Writing pad, inkstand and penholder. Paper rack with writing materials. Book rack with books, 1 large open book. 1 large lamp (red} practical. 36 HER LORD AND MASTER On sofa L. Large red pillows. On mantel. 2 6-light candle sconces; 2 large bronzes; large clock (set at 11 o'clock); 2 small bronzes; small ornaments; seat in win dow, upholstered in red. On. seat in window 3 pillows. Fur rugs in front of fireplace and door L. 1 E. Rugs in front of doors H. 1 E. and door R. 3 E. 6 light candle sconces with mirrors either side of arch c. and above door L. 1 E. 2 pedestals with large candelabra at sides of arch c. (no candles). SIDE PKOPS. Off L., 2 valises, 1 hat box, 1 golf bag and sticks, 1 traveling rug FLASH. Cane LADY CANNING. 2 prayer books, pillow, shawl FOOTMAN. Large silver tray, large sil ver teapot, silver creamer and cream, silver sugar bowl and sugar, silver sugar tongs, 6 sil ver spoons, 6 teacups, tea in teapot, large hot water urn FOOTMAN. Tray 3 cards JEN NINGS. Prayer book INDIANA. Tray and basket of cakes, candle lighter, candle ex tinguisher, candle stick, lighted candle, Act III JENNINGS. Cigarette case, matches, Act III GLEN. Silver tray, teapot, creamer and cream, sugar bowl and sugar (china), Act IV FOOTMAN. Cab bell, cab door effect, knocker, prompter, Act III. This is off stage off R., for convenience of actor not seen by audience. 2 cigars, LORD S., Acts II and IV; chime for clock, prompter Act III; rug, table, chair. Dressing room R. 1 E., for INDIANA, Acts II and IV. 37 (Scene same for Acts II, III and IV.) LIGHT PLOT. At rise, house half up. White foots 1st border sidelights up full. Lamp on table c. ready. Candles in sconces not lighted. Fire in grate, R. 2 E. Bunches (white) R. 1 and 2 E. Bunches (white) L. 1 E. Amber calcium on drop from L. Cue At exit of STILL WATERS, amber calcium change to rose white border down slowly. Cue At exit of LORD CANNING, "I shall not give in," rose calcium out. White foots and side lights down slowly to be % down at entrance of GLEN cue. Cue As JENNINGS lights 3 candles at door L. 1 E. Foots and sides go up slightly. Cue As JENNINGS lights lamp c. Foots and sides go up % at a jump. Cue As JENNINGS lights 6 candles on mantel. Foots and sides up gradually. Cue As JENNINGS returns and lights remainder of candles in sconces R. and L. of arch. 1st border goes up full R. and L. of c. arch. Cue Blue calcium comes on f ACT II SCENE. LADY CANNINGS house in an aristocratic quarter of London. Scene, a library leading into THURSTON'S apartments. A very old room furnished in old oak, old silver, old tapestries, etc. Family portraits (old). 38 HER LORD AND MASTER JENNINGS, an old servant, a typical Scotchman, about very noiselessly; replenishes fire. FLASH in long traveling ulster and carrying rug strap, hat box and golf sticlcs enters L. 1 E. FLASH, (drops traps down L., looks around) Home at last, (sees JENNINGS) How are you, Jen nings? (JENNINGS L. c. looTcs up) Don't you know me? JEN. Yes. I know you. (at fire B.) FLASH, (c.) Well, you might shake a man by the hand and say, "Welcome home," after braving the terrors of the deep. How do I look ? JEN. Cheekier than ever. FLASH. (L. c.) I have acquired that erectness of bearing which distinguishes the Sons of the Re public independent air yer know! Where do we lodge ? JEN. His lordship's apartments have been pre pared in the new wing. FLASH, (to c.) Oh, the annex. We're relegated to the annex. Charming young person, the Amer ican wife. I know her very well very well indeed. JEN. Hold your tongue. If his Lordship should hear that, your name would be "bounce." FLASH, (c.) (airily) Not at all not at all. His Lordship has been quite revolutionized. Ameri ca is different from this land of Caste and Class. His Lordship always defers to my advice while I am deferently observant of his. A glorious land, America, Jennings the land of equality where every master is as much a gentleman as his servant. (sits on table c.) I shall to-night speak at the club on the subject. I shall open the eyes of other valets who are tying the shoestrings of many a cad who should be tying theirs. We'll combine we'll make a trust we'll Americanize the entire service. Want to join us? HER LORD AND MASTER 39 JEN. No ! FLASH. Too much servility in the British ser vice. Too much bowing and scraping. H'every man is equal. Hit's only a question of intellect and as far as that goes, to use the expressive Amer icanism, I can give my master cards, spades and little casino. LORD STAFFORD, (outside) Flash, you rascal, where are you? FLASH, (jumps off table, goes above to door L. 1 E. bus. Entire manner changing to the abject ser vility) Here, sir I was just asking Jennings where we shall put our traps, my Lord. It appears our old apalrtmente have been taken by Lord Thurston. (Enter LORD STAFFORD in traveling costume L. 1 E., gives hat to FLASH as he passes behind sofa to c.) LORD S. (kindly) Ah, Jennings! JEN. (meets LORD S., c.) Glad to see you back, my lord, (shakes hands with LORD S.) LORD S. (c., helped off with his coat by FLASH) And glad to be home, Jennings. Two years is a long time to be away from England for an ortho dox British subject like myself Ah! (JEN. takes coat and hat and goes over L. LORD S. stands with his back to the fire) It's good to toast one's self before an English fire. Flash tells me Thurston's appropriated my old quarters. JEN. (by table) Yes, my lord, we've fitted up the old rooms very beautifully for her little lady ship. LORD S. And how do you like the new mistress? JEN. Her little ladyship's an angel, your lord ship. LORD S. Her little ladyship? JEN. We call her that, sir, to distinguish her 40 HER LORD AND MASTER from my lady. (LORD STAFFORD laughs JEN NINGS goes back of table) FLASH, (over L. picks up traps) (meekly) Where shall I put your traps, my lord? LORD S. Go to the devil. FLASH. Yes, my lord but LORD S. If you don't get out, I'll kick you out. If I had to think for myself, I wouldn't be bothered with you. Our American tour has spoiled you you are always asking questions. FLASH. Shall I put the things LORD S. Now put the traps wherever you damn please and take that ugly mug out of my sight for a little while. I am tired of having you continually at my heels. FLASH. Yes, my lord. Directly (takes up traps and goes humbly toward door R. 3 E.) LORD S. Flash! FLASH, (up c.) Yes, my lord. LORD S. You may take that waistcoat of mine the green one FLASH. Thank you sir, thank you very much, sir er I beg your pardon, but may I ask where? LORD S. Oh, go to (hand over mouth FLASH jumps out, exit R. 3 E.) JEN. (coming down L. of table c.) Young whip per-snapper. JEN", (as LORD S. comes toward him c.) My lady and her little ladyship have gone to church. Lord Thurston is coming in now, my lord, (enter THURS. brightly, with delighted expectancy of mann.er) THURS. Uncle Gerald! LORD S. (c.) Thurston, my boy! (shaking hands, takes him in curiously) Well well well THURS. Well, examination satisfactory? LORD S. (puzzled) You're changed for the bet ter more vivacity in fact you've grown younger. HER LORD AND MASTER 41 THUKS. I was an old bachelor I am a young married man. (THUES. and LORD S. laugh heartily.) LORD S. So the international combination has panned out, as we say in the States? THUES. Worked like a charm from the start. LORD S. Remarkable and with your mother? THUES. (laughing) Mother has completely suc cumbed to Indiana and spoils her shockingly. LORD S. I am very glad of that, I'm sure How do you account for Indiana's good behavior? THUES. I say, don't I get any credit? LORD S. You, not a jot. (enter JENNINGS who points to window conveying the idea that a carriage has arrived) THUES. Here they are here's my wife. I'll tell mother you're here, (exits L. 1 E.) LORD S. (stroking his beard contemplatively) Jennings, we're getting old. JEN. (shaking his head) Yes, your lordship. (goes up above door L. 1 E. En,ter LADY CANNING and footman in livery with pillow shawl and prayer- books, which JENNINGS takes from him. LADY CANNING i-s a type of aristocratic woman of the old school, rather old fashioned but very richly dressed. LADY C. carries a cane. Footman goes above door L. 1 E.) LORD S. (goes to LADY C., L. c.) My dear sister. (kisses her, unhooks wrap and removing it, gives to JENNINGS, who comes down R. of sofa) LADY C. Gerald, I'm very glad to have you at home, you wanderer. You look marvelously well and tanned by the sun. Have you seen my little daughter? Where are you, Indiana? (sits on sofa) 42 HER LORD AND MASTER (INDIANA speaks outside, then enters. A changed person from Act 1. She is the personification of English maidenhood, in plain English gown. She wears a bonnet with strings and carries a prayer book, uses a decided English accent) JENNINGS folds shawl and puts on chair up L.) IND. (demurely, in low tones, with a strong ef fort at English accent. Enters L. 1 E., goes to c.) Here, Lady Canning. How do you do Uncle Gerald? (LoRD S. kisses her proffered cheek, taking her in with great curiosity as she stands with clasped hands, very demure and quiet) LADY C. And how do you find our sweet child looking uncle Gerald? LORD S. By George, I should say I find her very much changed. IND. (c. sweetly) For the better, dear Uncle Gerald? LADY C. When we transplant a flower, we must watch it very carefully for a time lest it wither in the process. Indiana is a most flexible little person. She appears to have taken root in our soil so easily she had not been here a week when she was per fectly at home. IND. Thanks to your good advice, my dear Lady Canning. You have taken so much trouble with me. (to sofa) LADY C. To be frank, Gerald, Indiana was a most agreeable surprise. When Thurston wrote me that he had selected a wife in the wilds of America, I fell ill with fright. I couldn't find out anything about the place, and the name suggested horrible visions of half-breeds and wild girls who climb trees and ride a horse bare back. Those banjo playing and whistling Americans are my special abomina tion. HER LORD AND MASTER 43 America is a very large country, dear Lady Canning. There are tree climbers and bare-back riders in the uncivilized parts, I believe. (THURS- TON turns away to conceal a laugh) In fact, I my self must have appeared er strange to you at first, did I not, dear Lady Canning? LADY C. Oh, no only a little rasping quality of the voice which has since greatly modified. IND. That is our climate, Lady Canning. The sharp winds have a tendency to pitch our voices in a high key. (imitates yarikee nasal tone on high key) LADY C. And your gowns, dear, were a little too modern too expensive for a young wife. You don't mind my saying it, Indiana. IND. I am so grateful to you. Dear Lady Can ning has given me the real English taste in the selection of a gown, (aside to LORD S. c.) Dowdy isn't it? I adore Irish poplins, English cheviots, Scotch plaids, and seed cake. And my first bonnet isn't (aside) so unbecoming. LADY C. Well, dear, as soon as a girl is married, she wears a bonnet with strings; that is always the sign of a matron in England. You know there must be something to distinguish the married from the single woman. IND. Yes, certainly, I approve of it. Then the*re can be no danger of mistakes being made by strangers. LORD S. (laughing) Ha! Ha! As they say in the States, you have hitched on, Indiana you've mashed 'em cold all around. LADY C. (severely) Mashed 'em cold! My dear brother, what do you mean by such expressions? They appear to be very vulgar. Is it really Ameri can, Indiana? IND. Not at all, dear Lady Canning. In the un- 44 HER LORD AND MASTER cultured wastes only the natives make use of such barbarisms. LADY C. My darling, go and lay off your bon net and smooth your hair, (kisses her, goes to the door, makes a curtsey and exits in, room. THURS- TON roaring with laughter after her) LORD S. Kemarkable! LADY C. (with a sigh of content) The child has perfect manners ; one would think she had been born and bred in England. I don't allow her to call me mother it's a better moral effect and with a little tender firmness combined with the dignity that awes, I have accomplished wonders. I shudder to think what would have been the results if I had not been here. Thurston spoils her shockingly. LORD S. Ah, does he? Very unwise, I'm sure. LADY C. Yes. But it's turned out very, very well. You know how adverse I have always been to Thurston marrying a modern woman those editing magazines and forming clubs and racing women Ah! (with a shudder) England is not what it was in my time. LORD S. When Thurston first broke it to me, I was very doubtful of the results very but his heart carried him away. LADY C. I don't wonder at it. She's so bright, so amusing, so clever, so lovable, she must have come from very fine stock. LORD S. (seriously) Very! You should see Grandma Chazy Bunker. "She beats the band," as we say in the States. LADY C. (severely) "Beats the Band !" Your ex pressions make me shudder. LORD S. "I guess I took it on thick before I left New York." LADY C. You might have brought something more creditable all that way. HER LORD AND MASTER 45 LORD S. I have. Helena, I'm going to let you into a little secret. Indiana's people came over with me from America. LADY C. Who LORD S. The whole hunch. Her mother, father, and grandmother, and as they say in the States, "They're going to make Indiana's hair stand up." LADY C. Speak English, if you please. LORD S. They're going to give her a surprise party. You bet your sweet life LADY C. . Do you mean that they're going to drop down on that poor child without sending her word? What an undignified thing to do. Her grandmother, too. Why, the highest respect is due to their age in the way of preparation. LORD S. In America there's nothing that gives so much pleasure as "springing" things on a person. The surprise party is no fad in America it's a national institution. LADY C. (on, her feet agitated) But my dear uncle, think of the shock to Indiana, that young married thing. It might he serious. LORD S. She won't turn a hair, as we say in the States she's a thoroughbred. Hi ! Hi ! Hi ! LADY C. My dear, I'm very glad you told me. (rises) I must go and make some kind of toilette to receive them, and the housekeeper must be ap prised. LORD S. (guyingly) (x'ing with LADY C. to wards door R. 3 E.) My dear sister, don't put your self out, as we say in the States. Surprise parties are in circulation, and are accepted as "legal tender" by the people. They won't disturb anybody and possibly they'll bring their own food. (LADY C. exit R. 2) LADY C. Then for heaven's sake, don't bring that 46 HER LORD AND MASTER kind of currency over here, because I want no sur prises. But I'll go I'll go. Poor Indiana most unheard of proceeding, (exit E. 3 E.) (LoED S. comes down E. c. in a fit of silent laugh ter.) IND. (puts her head in at door E. 1 E., enters exits to L. c., and when she sees LADY C. has gone, gives a little shrill loud cry she smiles at him to THUBSTON who enters B. 1 E.) I can be natural with him, can't I? (to THUBSTON c.) THDBS. Why not be natural with my mother? It pains me to see how you are playing a part with her IND. (comically to LOED S. x'ing R. c. LORD S. on sofa up R. c.) The ingratitude of men. He asked me to make his mother love me and to succeed it was necessary to adapt myself to her ways. If I had argued with her, it would have been impossi ble to live under the same roof, so I agreed with her in everything, consequently I am the best, most lov able girl in the world. All the same I own her body and soul that's my method of subjugation. Of course he's not satisfied. Nothing I do pleases him. THURS. Indiana ! IND. (half mockingly) Uncle Gerald, I'm fright fully good, (down R. c.) I've never been so good in my life. I feel like an angel, so sweet, so obe dient, so ordinary. Thurston doesn't appreciate it He doesn't love me as much as he did before we were married, (up to LORD S.) THURS. (seriously) Indiana, how can you say that? IND. I thought he was a gentleman of leisure, and he works harder than a farm hand. He sits up half the night reading and studying. If I had known he was such a great scholar, I wouldn't have married him. (punching LORD S. on shoulder) HER LORD AND MASTER 47 THURS. Indiana, do you mean that? IND. (x'ing back of table c. to LORD S.) No, seri ous face. I'm only joking. Uncle Gerald, do you think he'll ever be a great man? (back toward LORD S.) LORD S. I hope so. IND. Oh! as great as Thomas Carlyle? Don't say yes, because I'll run away. You know what Jane Carlyle said about the wives of men of genius they're more miserable even than than doctors' wives. Thurston has symptoms. Like Carlyle between histories, the old crank used to go in the back yard and sit on the fence in his night shirt. That's the next thing I'll get. (leaning on front edge of table c.) THURS. and LORD S. (burst out laughing. LORD CANNING L. of table kisses her LORD S. R. of IN DIANA c.) IND. (in high spirits x'ing to sofa R.) Now I'll ' give you an imitation of a squirrel, (bus. ad lib of squirrel sitting on. his haunches and nibbling at a nut. On sofa L.) Do you remember the night we went on a moonlight picnic all together, and Glen was so jealous poor Glen, and we sang round the Wabash (chorus of the Wabash) The moon shines fair to-night on the Wabash. Through the fields there comes a scent of new-mown hay, etc. (crosses to THURSTON then up c. back of table down R. c. and breaks down sobbing, sinks on the floor in front of table like a child; head on THURSTON'S knee) THURS. (with a quick step to her, gathers her up in, his arms) My darling, don't cry you break 48 HER LORD AND MASTER my heart. I know you're homesick, unhappy, I feel it (exit LORD S. E. 3 E.) IND. Nothing of the kind. There, I frightened Uncle Gerald away. I'm not homesick. I mean not all the time, (with a gulp) That song upset me and I had a terrible longing just to get a look at Dad and Mother and Grandma Chazy, and then pack them all home again. I wish you wouldn't take me so seriously. Thurston, don't watch every quiver of my eyes and think it's a tragedy. Discipline is a very good thing for me I like it. But I wish you wouldn't believe every word I say; it's aggravating enough when your mother does it. THTJRS. (arms about IND.) I'll try not to, dear, but I want to follow your thoughts I want to be one with my wife. It's difficult to to adjust my slow emotions to your rapidly changing ones. You force my sympathy and repel it, in a breath. Your moods change with the minutes, but it all wouldn't matter, if I were sure you were learning to love me to give only a little in return for my deep affec tion that would set my heart at rest and smooth away all difficulties. (INDIANA suddenly very seri ous and silent) Indiana. IND. I I was thinking perhaps it was wrong to marry you, but I didn't love anybody else, and I will try THURS. Indiana, if you knew how your words stab me! IND. Now you're sorry you married me. THURS. Sorry! I'd give up my life sooner than you. I try to control my love but I can't keep it always smothered, but I shall keep my word when I said I will make you love me. (takes her in his arms passionately) Indiana! IND. (for a moment yielding to his embrace) HER LORD AND MASTER 49 Thurston (JENNINGS enters L. 1 E. with a grin hands cards to THUES.) THURS. (reading with a rising inflection until he ends with a shout) Mr. and Mrs. Stillwater Mrs. Chazy Bunker Indiana, U. S. A. IND. (with a scream of joy staggers up) Ah! (LORD C. rises, x's toward door, behind sofa,; MR. S. enters 1st, goes down L. c., MRS. B. 2d, goes up L. c., embraces LORD C., MRS. S. goes down L. INDIANA flings herself into MR. S/s arms, who enters on JENNINGS'" heels also MRS. S. and MRS. B. MRS. B. throws herself into THURS- TON'S arms, behind sofa L. JENNINGS makes comic rush to get out L. 1 E. and exits.) MRS. S. (almost dancing in excitement) That'll do, father. Let me have one kiss oh ! That'll do father! (MR. S. hands INDIANA over to her mother and shakes hands with THURS. all greatly excited) MRS. S. (L. c. folding IND. in her arms) In diana, my darling, my pet, my baby, my Indy! MRS. B. (comes down c between sofa and chair R. of table) (sparkling with happiness) Time! Pass her around! (hugs and kisses IND.) IND. (beside herself with joy) You dear old things you puddings. ( arm around each swing MRS. B. around. MRS. S. R. of her down on sofa L.) This is what I call a surprise. Now sit right down, all of you. (motions for MR. S. to come over to sofa, be tween, MRS. B. and MRS. S., steps back and looks at them) Oh ! Oh ! I'm glad to see you (goes over and sits on MR. S.'s lap, kisses MRS. B., then MR. S., then MRS. S., talking all the time) ( THURS. exits quietly standing for a moment at the door watching INDI ANA'S radiant face with joy) Tell me all the news. 60 HER LORD AND MASTER How's everybody at home? Anybody engaged to be married? And any more society women come up to live in Stillwater to get a divorce what put it into your heads to come how long are you going to stay, and and MRS. B. Good gracious! One at a time, Indy. (All sit with their arms about INDIANA, gazing at her speechless with happiness, MR. STILLWATER has her head pressed against his waistcoat and is smoothing her hair. MRS. B. is the only one who is perfectly composed and self-possessed. The two women are very fashionably dressed. Also Ma. STILLWATER.) MRS. S. After you left and all the excitement was over I couldn't settle down again. My body was there, but my heart and soul were following you over the water. I don't know why we ever let you go, and I couldn't stand it any longer. I had to come. IXD. (tenderly with a soft caressing voice slip ping onto her knees in front of MRS. S.) My dear mother! My dear loving, kind mother. MR, S. (severely) Elizabeth. It's done now and we must make the best of it. JENNINGS. Would you like tea served? (all turn and look at JENNINGS) IND. If you please Jennings JEN. Would your little ladyship ALL TOGETHER, (repeating smilingly) Your little ladyship ! JEN. Like it served here MR. S. smiles, nudges MRS. S., then turns back to look at JENNINGS) IND. Yes, if you please, Jennings, (exit JEN NINGS L. 1 E. At exit of JENNINGS MRS. B. x's L. 1 E., looks after him and then up c. MR. S. moves over to L. end of sofa) Jennings has been a butler in our family all his life (c.) HER LORD AND MASTER 51 MR. S. (L. end of sofa) H'm ! Lack of ambition. That's the trouble with this country. I could see it before I was two hours landed. The Britishers are all too well satisfied with themselves life's too easy they haven't had to grow up with a new town. They ought to have been in my shoes 40 years ago. (MRS. B. during this is walking about, talcing in the room with her nose in the air, and a contemptu ous toss of her head) IND. (with an important air, sits between MR. and MRS. S. on sofa. MRS. B. comes down c.) Father! Mother! Grandmother. I've married into a great family. None of your new nobility. We are one of the few families left in England which has never married out of its sphere except in my case and I shall assimilate, not diverge. None of your new ideas here. All innovations are shunned as modern depravity by Helena, Lady Canning, my respected mother-in-law. Look about you. (rises, goes c. All turn where they are, look up stage, back to audience, MR. S. and MRS. S. having risen) The air you breathe has been respired by centuries of ancestors. MRS. B. (shivering and turning to audience) Oh! Ghosts! MRS. S. (confidentially to MR. S.) It's like a musty old cellar IND. We have lived exactly the same for the last 400 years. MR. S. I'll say 4,000 when I get back nobody to contradict me IND. (with a toss of her head calling MR. S. to her c.) There's nothing better than we nothing from an ancestral point of view. You can tell them that, papa dear. (English) 62 HER LORD AND MASTER MRS. B. (sharply) Indiana, drop that English accent it's too affected. IND. Hush! (enter THUES. with his mother on his arm R. 3 E. IND. goes up quietly and in soft low English tones, direct contrast to before, speaks. MR. S. goes up L. c. MRS. S. remains c. MRS. B. up L. c. and over L. behind sofa) My dear Lady Can ning, I have had such a de-lightful surprise. I want you to know my mother (introducing MRS. S. c.) and my father (MR. STILL WATER c.) (LADY CANNING bowing and goes up L. c. Enter LORD STAFFORD, who goes to group up c. LORD T. and MR. S.) LADY C. (R. c. in a charming, low, well bred tone, put out her hand) My dear Mrs. Stillwater I am really delighted (as MRS. S. takes her hands) IND. (x'ing over to L., takes MRS. B.'s hand and swings her around c.) And this is my grandmother. LADY C. (astonished) Your grandmother? (en r ter JENNINGS, tray and calces in basket, opens doors and enter footman with tea tray, etc.) MRS. B. Yep! It's difficult to realize, isn't it? in the States it's almost criminal for a woman not to look at least 10 years younger than she really is, and I have always been regarded as a remarkable woman for my age. (servants arrange the things on the table then take tray from JENNINGS) LADY C. (talcing in MRS. B. disapprovingly) It's a matter of costuming that completes the deception. At first glance, I thought you were a young woman, Mrs. MRS. B. Bunker LADY C. Bunker But on closer inspection I see you are not. (INDIANA laughs aside at table L. ofc.) HER LORD AND MASTER 53 MRS. B. (to IND.) (pointing to her neck) She gave it to me right there! MRS. B. (x'ing to L. c. LORD S. comes down back of sofa L.) Lady Canning, I wouldn't harbor any old bachelors. ISfow if he were my brother, I wouldn't give him house room. I'd just turn him out and he'd have to marry for a shelter Ha ! Ha ! Ha! (MRS. B., L. c., LORD S. comes down back of sofa. LADY CANNING and MRS. S. on sofa R. MR. S. and THURS. up c. INDIANA at tea table pouring tea. Footman standing beside her. JENNINGS stand ing above table directing footman) LORD S. Mrs. Bunker I don't think it very pally of you to give me away to my sister. I am perfectly aware that I have here what you call in America a a a lead pipe cinch. (INDIANA sits, straining her ears and eyes trying to listen to what everybody is saying while pour ing out the tea) (Appears very anxious and making mental comparison between her people and the others. Exit LORD C. and MR. S. L. 1. E.) (JENNINGS stands anxiously watching footman hand round the cups. She forgets herself, takes the teapot in hand and sits with it suspended over the cups. Her eyes and ears straining to lis ten now to MRS. B., now to her mother, who are talking with LADY C.) LADY C. (sofa R.) And how do you find your daughter looking, Mrs. Still water? MRS. S. (sofa R., shakes her head dolefully) Her color's not so high as it used to be, but I suppose that's because she's used to flying about in the open air. IND. (L. of table c.) Mother! 64 HER LORD AND MASTER MBS. S. (starting up) What is it, Indiana? IND. (with a warning glance) You don't take sugar, do you? MRS. S. No, dear, but let me pour it out. Don't wait on me. LADY C. Sit down, dear Mrs. Stillwater, Indiana always does her duty as Mistress of the house, (foot man takes cup of tea to MBS. S.) There's no doubt you miss her very much I can understand that. MBS. S. I'll tell you frankly. I was very much against her marrying away from home. I begged her not to do it. You've got to give in to Indiana to get along with her. (LADY C. laughs quietly footman, takes tea to MBS. B. STAF. takes it from tray and gives to MBS. B., also hands cake bracket) IND. Mother ! MBS. S. (x's B. of table) Yes dear, (goes over to her) ( JENNINGS takes tray from footman and footman exits L. 1 E.) IND. (aside) Stop that. (MBS. S. looks at her INDIANA pouring tea JEN. starts to take it L. of IND.) This is for dear Lady Canning. No. I'll bring it to her myself, (x's to LADY C. Sits beside LADY C. MBS. S. turning watching her jealously) MBS. S. (B. of table, to JENNINGS who is L. above table) She never waited on me like that, never. (putting cup on table x's to sofa L. Enter LORD C. and MBS. S., go up c.) MB. S. (looking at tapestry) Yes I know it's all very fine. I admire it right here because it belongs here, but when our millionaires import other people's old furniture even and put it into their brand new American houses, it seems to me snob bery the only value of an antique is when it re mains where it has grown old. THUBS. (up c.) I agree with you there, Mr. Stillwater. HER LORD AND MASTER 55 LADY C. (rising as INDIANA takes cup and gives it to JENNINGS, to INDIANA gently) My darling Indiana, if you will excuse me, I know you have much to say to your people. Now when will you come and dine with us? (LADY C. E. c. IND. x's down E.) MES. B. (rises down L.) Oh, we'll run in any old time. (MES. S. rises with LADY C. and remains in front of sofa L.) ME. S. (up L. c.) We won't wait for invitations. We'll run over to breakfast or supper just as the spirit moves us but anyway we'll take possession while we're here. (LOED C. goes to door up E. 3 E.) LADY C. (E. c.) Americans must be very sociable .people. We English have not that quality. IND. (to her) Dear Lady Canning LADY C. (genfly) We'll always be pleased to see you whenever you care to come but we are not used to be taken unawares. (LoED C. takes her to entrance. Exit LADY C. and THURS. IND. beckons LOED S., who join LADY C.) MES. B. (to c.) Indiana Stillwater, you are mak ing comparisons. IND. (up behind sofa R.) Nothing of the kind, Grandma Chazy. MES. B. (x'ing down E.) The way you crawl to that old woman is very un-American, to say the least. IND. (coming down L. of her) In England it's the custom to pay great respect to old people. MES. B. That's a nice slap in the face for us. IND. Grandma, you don't want the deference due to age, do you? (ME. S. comes down R. of table, MES. S. down L.) MES. B. Not for many, many years, I hope. IND. Think of me treating ma and pa like that. They wouldn't like it a bit. (going to MRS. S. c) 56 HER LORD AND MASTER MR. S. (putting arm around her) No as long as you love us we are satisfied to wait on you. MRS. S. (L. c.) But don't let anyone else take our place, (commences to cry) MES. B. (pushing MES. S. up L. c.) Here now I didn't come across that nasty ocean to pitch my tent in Calamity Camp. Just go and put on your things and come with us. (takes IXD. E. c.) We're going to have a good time, if it ts Sunday night. IND. I'd love to go. I must ask my husband. (x's toward door B. 3 E.) (all turn, backs to au dience in amazement) MBS. B. (down R.) Indiana Stillwater, I never thought you would turn out such a spiritless kind of woman. Of course it's none of my business but if you start in this way what's going to be come of your individuality, which is the pride and glory of the American woman? IND. (up B. c.) It's not so, Grandma Chazy, I do just as I like. I allow no one to compel me. MBS. S. (L. c.) You're quite right to ask your husband and if it's against his religious rules you stay at home and and read the Bible, (shakes her head as if to say, "It's come to that.") IND. (up B. c.) (blazing at them) It's not so, I tell you! (comes down B. c.) You don't under stand the conditions of life over here. The real thing don't go anywhere on Sundays if they must break out they go over to Paris where nobody sees them I will always love my own people, but I won't be blind to their faults. We lack noblesse oblige and repose and all that sort (goes to MBS. S. c.) MB. S. (embraces her) That may be so Indy. But if you keep cultivating a field of wheat right along you cultivate it until it doesn't produce any thing. They're running to seed fast and we're still HER LORD AND MASTER 57 bearing strong repose, let them have it. Thank heaven we youngsters are always on our feet. (MRS. S. crying silently) IND. (despairingly, x's to MRS. S. MK. S. up L. c.) Mother Don't cry I'll go there there! MRS. S. (brightening up) Darling don't you think we ought to invite Thurston? IND. I'll ask him, of course. But he won't come. That's quite out of the question, (toward R. c. a little) MRS. B. (x's to L. c., with a sigh of relief) We'll manage without him. Good-bye dear, good-bye. Then we'll send for you this evening. I've a surprise for you. (turns to IND.) IND. (delighted) Ah! don't tell me it's too nice to look forward to something (MR. S. goes lack of table and comes down R. c.) MRS. B. (looking at dress) Take off that dowdy thing and wear something becoming IND. (x'ing to MR. S., winces then tossing her head) We the leading people must encourage home manufacture. MRS. B. (severely) Nature endowed you so lav ishly that you can't afford to increase your waist to the width of your shoulders. MRS. S. (L. c.) We turned you out better. MR. S. (R. c.) (touches INDIANA'S dress) Hum I prefer a fine silk made in Paterson, New Jer sey, shipped to Lyons to be stamped, and re-import ed as French. Ha! Ha! Ha! (enter THURS. R. 3 E. x's to door L. 1 E.) MRS. B. (c. in a spirit of raillery) I learnt so many new things in the way of dress combinations coming and at Liverpool white muslin frocks fur capes, woolen stockings and hats a la Robinson Crusoe (x's to L. c. all laugh INDIANA severe) MB. S. (x's to IND. at c., then goes to door L. 1 58 HER LORD AND MASTER E., shakes hands with THURSTON and exits L. 1 E.) Indy, dear go back to your trousseau. MRS. B. (x's to IND.., then to door L. 1 E. and exit L. 1 E.) Yes, do so go back to your trousseau. MR. S. (at door L.) (aside) Thurston, has she broken out yet? (THURSTON laughingly shakes his head) That's good. (INDIANA stands down with clenched fists pouting like a child who is being teased. MRS. B. and MRS. S. exit, followed ly THURSTON and MR. S. all in high spirits laughing) (MR. S. taJces THURSTON'S arm and they exit laughing to gether INDIANA gazing at door and listening to the voices outside till they die away) (TmiRs. comes in, laughing heartily, comes down and at the sight of INDIANA'S dismal face, the smile dies on his face.) IND. (over n. c.) Oh! Go on, don't mind me, laugh at them, ridicule them. Tell me you don't want them to darken your .doors again. I'm ready for any thing. THURS. Indiana! I was not laughing that way. I find your people very witty and amusing as for separating you from them I hope we shall see as much of them as we possibly can. Grandma Chazy is a new creation for us we simply revel in her. She'll create a sensation wherever she goes. I shouldn't at all wonder if she doesn't marry well and settle down in England. There now, the storm's over, eh? Poor little thing! You've had a shock, I hate surprises myself. Lie down for an hour and rest. IND. (going toward door R. 1 E.) No! No! There's no time. I have promised to go out the folks wouldn't take "no" for an answer and it's natural they should want me with them, isn't it? HER LORD AND MASTER 59 THUKS. (coldly sits L. of table) Naturally. IND. I won't ask you to waste your night, but you can come for me. THUBS. Where? IND. Oh, they've mapped out a program. Grand ma Chazy knows what's to be seen. (B. c.) THUES. I'm only your husband it is true but I think I have a right to know if my wife will go out where she is going. IND. Oh, it's to some big hotel to dine where you see the actors and actresses there's music and the whole Push Oh, I mean lots of people. THUES. (L. of table after a pause) I am very sorry to disappoint you but I cannot permit you to go. That's not the thing for Lady Canning. It may be all right for a lot of sight-seers strangers but London is our home. I do not wish you to be seen in public until I have formally presented you as by wife. Indiana, I do not want to force you but to convince you now admit that it would be very inconsistent. IND. Yes, but that's just why I want to do it. (at door E. 1 E.) THUES. (x's to her smiles) You child come now (takes IND. around the waist she rebels) shut those sharp little American eyes and slumber for an hour and dream yourself into good humor again, (puts her on sofa over L. as she reaches sofa she tumbles on it head toward c.) IND. (piteously, rising on. elbow) Thurston, they've got a surprise for me. THUES. What another your nerves won't stand any more surprises to-night. ( THUES. gets rug up L. and puts it over her; as lie does so she pulls one end down tightly about her shoulder) Now in one 60 HER LORD AND MASTER hour I shall come in on tiptoe and awaken my sleep ing beauty with a kiss. IND. (on sofa, shuts her eyes) THUBS. Asleep already, or sulking which? IND. (piteously) Thurston I want to go. Thurs- ton, why can't I go? THUES. (coldly) Because you yourself have ac knowledged it is not the thing (tenderly) Indi ana, do you remember the day I asked you to be my wife the condition upon which you accepted me. IND. (innocently, raising herself up) What? THUES. That I should not give in IND. Oh ! (falls back on sofa shuts her eyes) THUES. (seriously) I have never in my life broken a given word this is our first difference I must keep my promise to you I must not give in. (exits quietly E. 3 E.) (INDIANA with a half sob turns her face to the wall. A pause. She turns restlessly) IND. (opens her eyes wide, looks at ceiling) 5 10 15, etc., to 100 (sighs, sighs again. Turns restlessly, repeats to herself) Ana mana mony my, passa lona bona swei hare ware from wack alike balicky we wo why wack. I'm out Yes I am out out of everything, (tries to sleep finds she can't, rises, takes pillow and shawl and turns head the opposite direction stretches, etc., then finds she can't and rises) I can't sleep, (takes pillow and throws it out, striking GLEN as he enters followed by JENNINGS, who picks up pillow) Glen! (with a scream of delight she throws herself into his arms and he is about to kiss her when she shrinks away) Oh! I forgot! (JENNINGS puts up lights) (GLEN is dressed in full evening dress in the height of fashion) HER LORD AND MASTER 61 IND. (c. standing away from him rather shyly) You were the surprise? GLEN. (L. c.) Yes, I was the surprise. IND. I was just trying to sleep and thinking of the old days when we played tag together and Oh ! How fine (x's to R. c.) GLEN. (c. eagerly) What? IND. Never mind. GLEN. I've become a man of the world since you left, Indy. Dead easy buy the highest priced clothes, wear patent leather boots, keep your hands in your pockets and look bored you don't ask me to sit down, (x'ing to sofa L.) IND. Yes, do. You've changed so much for the better I'm quite bewildered. GLEN, (both sit with a superior air) That's worth crossing the ocean to hear from you. But I won't sit down here, the place chokes me I've brought a hansom and we'll jump in and take a spin about till it's time to join the folks at din ner. IND. (rising goes to table her back toward him with a gulp) I'm not going my husband won't let me GLEN. Your husband won't let you? Poor, poor child, has it come to this already? IND. (blazing at him turning to him) Don't waste any sympathy I'm perfectly happy, I assure you. GLEN, (skeptically) Yes you look it (!ND. x's E. of table) I understand him it's a case of jealousy He's trying to wean you from your own people I suppose I won't be allowed to see any thing of you either. I am glad they let me in to get one glimpse of you. Next time it will be "Not at home" or "engaged" or something I'm very sorry you couldn't come just this one night. It'll spoil 62 HER LORD AND MASTER the whole evening for us and I had so much to tell you but I won't keep you good-bye (goes L.) IND. (despairingly follows him) Glen! How can you act like that. I'm no prisoner. I can go if I want to but I don't want to GLEN. That makes it worse than ever. We sym pathize with you in the other case, but now, we must have the pride not to beg when you turn your back upon us good night. IND. Oh! I can't stand this. I'll go (x's to ward door E. 3 E., half to herself) Ifs no use /appealing to Thurston, because well well just sit down and I'll slip into a dress (x's to door K. 1 E., comes back) I won't go to any hotel where there's music. GLEN, (joyfully) It's a go. (c. exit IND. in room) (GLEN looks around then sits L. of table takes up book, looks at fly leaf) (Enter JENNINGS who lights candles up stage) GLEN, (reading from the fly leaf) H F R G M Hallelujah Fanatica Eeligioso Gloria Monday Sunday I mean. Is that right? JEN. No, sir, it means, Honorary Fellow Royal Geographical Society. They wanted Lord Thurston to lead an expedition to the North Pole, I under stand, if his lordship had not married, he would have gone. GLEN, (shaking his head and rising, leaves book on table) Pity he didn't go (sighs, looks around, x's to mantel, sees photo, takes it down) Ah, a new photograph JEN. Yes, of her little ladyship Do you like it? GLEN. Oh, so-so (sees JENNINGS is not looking, kisses it) JEN. (up L.) My lady thinks it's vulgar to be photographed I can't agree with her I love that HER LORD AND MASTER 63 picture I look at it fifty times a day. My lady is going to have her little ladyship's portrait painted by one of the great masters GLEN. What next JEN. What next? After the season we are to go to our ancestral hall and her little ladyship is to play Lady Bountiful and visit all the poor tenants. GLEN. Another new part (to picture) It's all acting with you when the first blaze of glory is over and you find yourself in it for life what will you do then, you poor little prairie chicken JEN. (disgusted) Prairie chicken! (exit L. 1 E.) GLEN, (laughs, goes to chair L. of table, sits) How jolly I am liar hypocrite (kicks his foot, then to picture) (Ah you wicked little secessionist, you'll eat your heart out here in this imperialism. Little Western Bobolink, with your wings clipped and your eyes peering over the cruel ocean, (half sobs) Oh, you'll never complain. You're too proud, (leans his head on his hand INDIANA enters in full evening dress pulls bell cord stands for a moment and then throws her glove at him, turns) Oh ! (rises, goes L. c., leaving picture on table) IND. (with a superior air, sits R. of table, writes) (GLEN looks at her with worshipping eyes) It's not necessary to ask you how I look. I've completely stunned you. Now I'll leave a message for Thurs- ton. (takes up pen, and then perplexed, begins to look a little grave) GLEN. Oh, you're sorry. You'd like to back out. IND. (nerving herself writes) Not at all I know just what my husband will do. He won't say a word to anyone he'll jump in a cab and follow me. GLEN. And then a family row. 64 HER LORD AND MASTER IND. Thurston is too high bred for any public display of feeling, but he'll look cold and proud I'll I'll quiver my eyelids, and he'll kiss me that's all. GLEN. I know you could soften stone, '(picks up gloves} IND. (on the qui vive) Oh, I'm so excited. I love uncertainty of any kind. GLEN, (goes up L. c.) Women are born gam blers, (enter JENNINGS L. 1 E., goes above table) IND. (trying to appear indifferent) There there is a note on the table for your master. JEN. Yes, your ladyship. IND. (x'ing in front of table up L. c. E. of GLEN) (loftily) Er I shall be GLEN. Somebody coming (cross) Quick or Bluebeard will cut off our heads. IND. (bus. takes GLEN'S hand) Scoot! (takes his hand and laughing like two children, they exit as she says Skee-oot) (JENNINGS shakes his head dole fully as LORD S. enters in evening dress) JEN. (goes quickly up to window c., at window horror stricken) She's driving off in a hansom ! LORD. S. (at fireplace) Who's driving off in a hansom ? JEN. (starting) Her her little ladyship. LORD S. Impossible. JEN. (down L. c.) Her little ladyship's gone with the gentleman from America. LORD S. (contemplating, pulling his mustache) Oh, evidently young Masters By George ! (enter THURSTON) THURS. (down c.) Uncle Gerald, I thought you were dining out this evening. (LORD S. stands lighting a cigarette trying to appear unconcerned) I'm as hungry as a bear (goes to door of room HER LORD AND MASTER 65 knocks) Indiana! (knocks) Indiana dear! (open door) WARN CURTAIN LORD S. Er Thurston. THUES. (turns quickly) Where's Indiana? JEN. (L.) Her little ladyship's gone out, sir. THURS. Impossible. I left her asleep here. (x'ing L. of table pointing at sofa) JEN. Her ladyship left a note. (THURSTON rushes to table, takes note, opens it, reads it quickly) Shall I serve dinner at the usual hour, sir ? THURS. Certainly. (JENNINGS goes out L. 1 E.) LOBD S. (quickly at fireplace) She has gone with young Masters. THURS. Yes, to dine, and asks me to fetch her. LORD S. (relieved) Then it's all right. THURS. (c.) It's not all right by any means, Uncle Gerald. My wife has gone against my ex press wishes. LORD S. (x'ing toward THURSTON) Ah ! By George ! too bad. You'll go and fetch her of course ? THURS. (after a pause) No ! THURS. No ! LORD. S. What are you going to do? THURS. (after a pause sit L. of table c., LORD S. looks at him) I I'm going to sit up for my wife (like a good obedient husband!) ad lib CURTAIN PICTURE. THURSTON (takes up book, opens it LORD S. back to audience going out R. 3 E.) 66 HER LORD AND MASTER ACT III LIGHT PLOT. Lights same as end of Act II. Except candles in sconces (R. and L. arch c.) out. Calcium on drop out. Side lights off. House 14 up. Cue As clock strikes 12. Border works off grad ually. Foots work to half JENNINGS extin guishes candles. Cue After entrance of GLEN. Bunches L. 1 E. and R. 2 E. go off. Cue After curtains on c. arch are closed. A white lunch is thrown on window c. and platform, but kept off drop. Cue When JENNINGS put out lamp c. Foots go to a slight glow (a snap) Cue When LORD CANNING puts up lamp c. Foots go up to 1/4 (at a snap) SCENE. The same. Time, 11 o'clock, night. DISCOVERED. THURSTON still sitting with book at table. The clock strikes 11. JENNINGS stands looking at THUHSTON wistfully. WARN KNOCK THURS. (at L. of ialle c.) Eleven o'clock (enter JENNINGS L. 1 E. THURSTON in sharp, quick tone) Well, what is it? JENNINGS. I'll keep up the fire, sir, it's a bit sharp out to-night. THURS. (slowly, as if with difficulty) My mother does not know my wife is absent HER LORD AND MASTER 67 JEX. Xo, sir not a word, sir. THURS. That's right. We mustn't worry her unnecessarily, (a knock heard outside) KNOCK JEIST. (with a chuckle of joy) Ah! Here's her little ladyship now, sir. (exits L. 1 E. THURSTON with a flash of joy goes toward door but on second thought he returns, sits down at L. of table, bends his head down over his book trying to appear disin terested. JENNINGS enters followed by MR. STILL- WATER) THURS. (turns on seeing STILLWATER, a look of deep disappointment and anger passes over his face and he speaks quickly and uncontrollably rises) Where is my wife where is she? (x's to R. c.) STILL, (very conciliating and a little embar rassed. Is in evening dress with overcoat over his arm and an opera hat) She's all right, my boy she's all right. She's at the hotel with Mother and Grandma Chazy, and I came to bring you back to finish up the evening with us (puts hat and coat on L. end of sofa) THURS. Mr. Stillwater, do you know that my wife left the house against my expressed wish and commands? Drove away from my door on Sunday evening with a gentleman not her husband? STILL. Yes, I know all about it, my boy but it was only Glen just the same as her own brother. THURS. My household does not know that. The appearance of such a proceeding is most unfavorable. (x'ing to fire R. 2 E.) STILL. (L. c. rather impatiently) I know but it's Indiana's way of doing things just because you said she shouldn't, she did it. Now if you'd handled her a little better you'll excuse me, but I've known her longer than you. 68 HER LORD AND MASTER THUES. (x's to L. and front of table c.) You may have known her longer, but I doubt if you know her better. As to handling her, as you call it, I will never bribe or cajole my wife into doing her duty. STILL, (with an effort of conciliation) My boy, I approve of the stand you are taking but com mence after we've gone. It'll be all right ; I promise you she will receive you with open arms. THUBS. I am sorry to refuse you. This is the first time my wife has openly defied my wishes ; if I give in, it will only be the beginning of endless repetitions, and I shall fall in line behind her (sar castic) like a good, obedient husband. STILL, (rather huffed) It's not such a terrible thing to be a good, obedient husband. I'm one I don't look very bad on it do I? THUES. (smiling) My dear Father-in-law, if I were an American, I would consider it the acme of bliss to be in the leading strings of my pretty wife, but STILL, (with a laugh) You're not built that way, eh? (THUBS. laughs and shrugs his shoulders) ( STILL WATEB more at ease x's to sofa taJces up coat and hat) Come along, she's only a mite she's done wrong, she knows it and she's mighty uncomfort able. Now come, and when you get her home read the riot act (L. end of sofa. THUBSTOX shakes his head. STILLWATEB annoyed, puts coat and hat on B. end of sofa B. c.) I will not have her staying over night with us. The place for a young wife is under her husband's roof. THUES. (sitting B. of table c.) Use your author ity to convince her of that fact. STILL, (to L. of table c. Intensely) Do you think I haven't done so already? Do you think I came here alone to-night without doing all I knew HER LORD AND MASTER 69 how to get her to come with me ? She never told us until the evening was half over that you forbade her to go we begged we prayed we bullied her and she gave it to us back as good as she got it ha ! ha ! and Grandma Chazy got mad she she nearly slapped her. But do you think she'd budge not a foot. Come now, she doesn't mean anything, and will I tell you something? She's afraid to come home. I know that little uneasy laugh of hers with her eyes full of tears she's done wrong she's sorry and she wants you to come and make it up Won't you come, Thurston won't you? THUBS. (shakes his head negatively) When I think of you three old people helpless against that slip of a girl, it appalls me STILL. Then I tell you what it is! She won't come home until you do come after her that's her ultimatum, (strikes front end of table with hand) THURS. (rising, speaking sternly and decidedly) And this is mine my house closes at 12 o'clock and if she does not return at that time, the doors will be locked for the night. STILL, (x'ing back of sofa) I'll do what I can I'll march her into a carriage as soon as I get home. (takes up coat and hat) She won't let me come with her because she don't know how you'll receive her I'll tell her you're waiting up, eh? THURS. I shall wait up until 12 after that time she must remain with you STILL, (with a sigh, x's to door L. 1 E. stops) You're making a very hard time for yourself Good night, (exit L. 1 E. THURSTON stands mo tionless as a statue in deep thought. JENNINGS enters L. 1 E.) THURS. (in measured tones) Jennings, Lady Canning may not return to-night. She will prob- 70 HER LORD AND MASTER ably remuin with her people she naturally wants to see as much of them as possible. JEN. Yes, your lordship. THUES. Lock up at the usual hour and go to bed. If she is not here before 12, she will not return. JEN", (watching him) Yes, your lordship (with an ejaculation of fear) Milady Sir Milady (stands down L.) THUBS. My mother ! Don't look so anxious, Jen nings, don't, (enter LADY CANNING B. 2 E. With a bright smile on his face he takes LADY C.'s two hands and draws her into the room) Mother! What keeps you up at this hour? LADY C. (x's to seat at fireplace) I've had so much to think of since since this afternoon. I wasn't at all sleepy where's Indiana-^ in bed? Jennings told me she had a headache, (exit JEN NINGS hurriedly) THUBS. (mechanically) Yes, the excitement. (JENNINGS slowly exits) LADY C. (affectionately talcing THUBSTON'S hand) Thurston, I have only realized what a courageous man you are, dear since I have seen her people. THUBS. (leaning over her) Mother, the only dif ference between us is that we are old and they are new people and after all, (sits) mother, is not that repose of class and breeding a sign of old age and is not a restless, ever-seething activity, signs of a youthful and healthful vitality? LADY C. It's very good and chivalrous of you, my dear, to look at it that way, and perhaps you are right, but I am not a student of sociology not that I object to the mother and father we have one great point of sympathy our love for the dear child but the Grandmother, Thurston is she quite well balanced? HER LORD AND MASTER 71 THUBS. (laughing) She's a shining light, moth er she has invented a number of very ingenious im provements for practical machines she is a promi nent member of women's clubs but I believe she is going in for some political office next year. LADY C. (with a sigh) Wonderful how people differ in conception of things, but if she were my mother, I should consider she should have a per sonal attendant. What do you think she said to me that "I ought to make more of myself" and "If I'd come over to the hotel she'd fix me up." (LoBD THUES. and LADY C. laugh) Well, we'll get on with them, won't we they have given us our In diana I am going to make a great effort for her sake; I'm going to present her myself at the first drawing-room of the season. THUBS. Mother WAEN CLOCK LADY C. Yes, I'm coming out of my retirement after twenty years, and we'll make a sensation, I promise you. The child has brightened my life. I'm beginning to take an interest in things for the first time since I lost your dear father. THUES. (rising x's to lower end of mantel) I'm very glad of that, mother, very glad and happy. LADY C. (rises, x's toward door B. IE.) Now I'll just creep in and kiss her good night. I THUES. (quietly stopping her) I wouldn't, mother. LADY C. I won't awake her. THUES. (quietly "but with an intent anxiety) Don't go in, mother. LADY C. (turns away to E. c.) (comes lack un willingly) Just as you say, Thurston give her my love and a kiss. We must love her very much, 72 HER LORD AND MASTER and if there are any faults, we must deal gently with them on account of her training. THUES. Good night, mother, (takes her to door she exits R. 3 E. THURSTOX smiles her out, and as soon as she is gone, THURSTOX looks at dock, then goes up to window c., opens it and looks out doses it but opens it again quickly as though he heard a cab. Mistaken, he again doses the window and goes to seat at fireplace sits looks again at dock then buries his face in his hands. Enter JENNINGS) (JEXXIXGS carries candle extinguisher) JEN. (at chair L. of table) (piteously) Won't you have a cold bite, sir you never touched the dinner. (THURSTOX shakes his head) A glass of wine, sir? THURS. Nothing Jennings, don't bother there's a good fellow and don't come crawling in and out continually I can't read it disturbs me. (x's to arm chair B. of table, takes up book) CLOCK STRIKES 12 JENNINGS. Very well, sir (x's to fireplace and extinguishes candles, and then x's to candelabra above door L. and extinguishes those. The dock strikes twelve while JEXXIXGS is doing this. Six candles on mantel and three at door are all that can be extinguished during the time) WARN KNOCK THURS. (reads) Twelve o'clock. JEN. I'll only put on the chain, your Lordship in case THURS. Lock the door take the key out as usual, and go to bed. KNOCK JEN. (with a silent motion of assent, goes to door a loud knock) Ah! Here she is at last. Here's her little ladyship (rushes out) HER LORD AND MASTER 73 THURS. (then with a cry of gladness x's toward door L. 1 E.) Ah! my wife my Indiana Thank heaven I (rushes to door and is met by GLEN, who enters. THURS. turns and crosses to R. c.) GLEN, (a little embarrassed) It's rather a late visit, Lord Canning but I I left the folks about ten o'clock and I I've been driving about the city trying to collect my thoughts. Indiana told me you generally sat up after she retired, so I waited late to find you alone and have it out with you. THURS. (who has regained his composure) Oh! Indeed I was not aware that there was any sub ject to be thrashed out between you and me GLEN. Indiana's unhappy I can't see it it breaks my heart. THURS. (R. c., coldly) You are a very young man, sir and closely connected with my wife and her family, or I should consider this an unwarrant able piece of impertinence. GLEN. Ah ! that's the point, and as we both want square and above board and I hate anything clan destine this is a case of a husband and wife and another man who loves her. I'm the other man now kick me out. (x'ing towards THURSTON) THURS. (half amused half earnest) I should assuredly do so if you were an Englishman. But, in your case I will only beg of you to explain your meaning I am always willing to learn. GLEN, (embarrassed) Er have a cigarette er Indiana won't be likely to come in (hands his case. THURS. refuses) I suppose she's safe in bed THURS. (evasively) No it's not likely GLEN, (lights cigarette sitting on R. arm of sofa) I want to keep her out of it if I can. (confidentially lighting cigarette) I'm not much of a talker, and this helps me and I'm a great thinker I've lived alone a considerable part of my life, and my way 74 HER LORD AND MASTER of doing things may not be strictly constitutional but that doesn't say I'm wrong (x's to table, moves inkstand to lower end of table, puts burnt match in its tray and then sits) THUHS. Not at all (goes up back of chair R. of table) GLEN, (very important manner) Do you believe that the pursuit of happiness is the highest aim of life? THUES. That depends whose happiness a man is pursuing you are evidently after mine, (sits B. of table) GLEN. What I mean is making others happy, the highest aim. THURS. Possibly my highest aim at present is to see my wife perfectly happy. GLEN. Ah! that's the point, and as we both want the same thing, there will be no difficulty in joining forces and accomplishing it. THURS. I cannot see how you can help in that consummation GLEN, (boyishly) That's what I came to tell you I'm the only one who really understands Indiana. I know how to get at her true feelings better than all her folks put together. (THURSTON half smiles GLEN with a superior manner) I saw the end of it from the first like all young girls, Indy wanted something new. I'm not blaming her but she's not happy she can never be made happy away from her own home and people. THURS. (manner changing from good natured tolerance to icy proudness) Are you here as my wife's ambassador? GLEN, (uneasily) Well, no, not exactly but she didn't object when I told her that I was going to have it out with you. HER LORD AND MASTER 75 THUES. It will be interesting to know what your intentions are. GLEN, (intensely naive) I I want to tell you the thing won't work I don't see how you could expect it. I want, in a perfectly open and straight forward way, to discuss the means to the desired result her happiness. THURS. This would all be very farcial if there were not a very serious question for me at the root of it GLEN, (a pause, GLEN embarrassed) er what do you propose to do? THUES. (stern and cold, drawing himself up) Prove to my own satisfaction, the truth of your state ment that my wife is not, and never can be happy in her new home. I shall not ask her. I am egotistical enough to believe that I understand her better than her people, and even better than you, and I am con vinced that a few years away from her family, will convert the spoiled child into a splendid self-con trolled woman. GLEN. Er How long will it take you to dis cover all this a life time, I suppose. THUES. About twelve hours. GLEN, (rising) Lord Canning, I I don't know why but I don't feel anything near as confident as I did when I came in. I was sure my platform was a just and equitable one, but since I've been watch ing you and listening, I begin to feel a little ashamed of myself. THUES. (half seriously) No occasion for it, I'm sure. GLEN. You're a fine fellow, sir, and if Indiana is not happy with you it is not your fault it's the fault of your nationality that's the only weak point I can see in you. 76 HER LORD AND MASTER THUKS. (smiling) An Englishman and his na tionality cannot easily be divorced as a husband and wife. GLEN. Lord Canning although it's against my own interests, I I wish you luck (start to go L. C.) THUBS. (x's toward bell cord down B.) Thank you. A moment, please. The house is already closed for the night, (pulls cord) Jennings will open the door for you. (THUBSTON moves away from bell cord. JENNINGS enters L. 1 E.) Jennings, light the gentleman down, (significantly) and fasten the bolt securely. JENNINGS. Yes your lordship, (exit L. 1 E.) GLEN. Good night, (x's to door. Enter JEN NINGS with candle) (GLEN comes back confiden tially) You won't see me again I shall keep out of the way I won't move a step in this matter until I am quite sure the case is hopeless with you. (THUBSTON nods his head, half smiling. 'Exit GLEN followed by JENNINGS. THUBS. throws lack his head with a low laugh, then frowns and sits down to table, opens a boolc to read. JENNINGS comes in with key, stops and looks at THUBSTON, whose head is bent over his boolc.) THUBS. Jennings, what are you prowling around here for? JEN. I just looked in to see after the fire, sir. THUBS. No sign of it's going out, Jennings. Find a more plausible excuse. JEN. A few more coals on the fire if you are not going to bed but perhaps you are going to bed. THUBS. No! I think I'll sit up and read. JEN. Oh, very well then, I'll just look after it a bit. (JENNINGS goes to fire, pokes it and then, see- HER LORD AND MASTER 77 ing he is unnoticed by THURSTON, tiptoes to win dow and looks out. Pause count ten a knock, low and timid. THUBSTON starts, also JENNINGS) KNOCK THUES. Jennings JEN. Here's her little ladyship, sir (looks up and sees THUESTON'S stern face) THUES. (in low set tones) Draw those curtains (JENNINGS goes to curtains and draws them. An other knock) KNOCK JEN. (in desperation down L of table c. to THUES TON) She's at the door LIGHT AT BACK THUBS. I have said that my doors shall not be opened to-night and I mean to keep my word. If you make one move to undo what I have done, in spite of the affection I have for you I shall dismiss you on the spot. JENNINGS, (puts key on lower end of table, turns crying) Dismiss ! (pathetically takes key and puts it on the table, then breaks down sobbing) THUES. (stands listening then takes key, starts for door) I must (listening intensely. Sound of cab door slam) She has gone back to the carriage. (the bell of the cab is heard) She is driving back to the hotel a little longer and I must have given in (goes to door of bed room) Keep up the fire I shall probably come in again and read (goes to door, exits info room sighing) JENNINGS, (goes to table c., turns out light and starts toward door L. \ E.) That I should live to see this night, (stops listening, conveying to the audience that he hears something. The sound of low sobbing is faintly heard JENNINGS listening, 78 HER LORD AND MASTER every n,erve on the alert in half whisper) It's out side (goes to window, opens both doors of window puts out his head) INDIANA, (in low tones outside) Jennings. JEN. Her little ladyship on the steps in the cold. IND. Is it you, Jennings? JEN. (in a whisper) Yes, your little ladyship. I can't open the door, your ladyship. Hush ! don't call out wait. Your little ladyship, can't you climb over the balcony. Take hold of that ivy there there, that's right. IND. (seen through window c. as though climb ing over balcony) Oh, it's so high. JEN. Now give me your hand ah you're such a light little body (enter INDIANA. Leans his body over the railings and gradually draws IND. up she lightly jumps over the balcony enters the room and rushes to the fire, shivering and warming her hands) IND. (at fireplace) Oh, I'm so cold so cold JEN. Hush! lower your voice, your little lady ship, if you don't want to ruin me. IND. (intensely) What's the meaning of this. Where's my husband? JEN. In there. IND. Why didn't you open the door? (c.) JEN. (L.) The master took the key from me. IND. (with horror-striclcen face) He heard me then he knew I was there answer me! JEN. (in frightened tones) Yes your little lady ship (!ND. in a rage leans back against table) You won't tell him I helped you in, your little lady ship he said he'd dismiss me on the spot and he always keeps his word. IND. (leaning against the table) Yes, he keeps his word (half dazed tones x's bade to fireplace) HER LORD AND MASTER 79 I won't tell and I'm in now thanks to you it's a terrible thing to be locked out in the dark. THURS. Jennings, is it you moving about in there? IND. (recoils from THURSTON'S door and motions JENNINGS out, as THURSTON'S door is thrown open, he enters, dressed with a smoking jacket replacing his evening coat. He stands for a moment in full light which comes from his room, peering into the dim light. INDIANA watching, he goes to L. of table c. and turns up light. INDIANA advances quickly. He looks up and they stand face to face. He stands immovable she panting with rage and excitement INDIANA, half hysterically) You locked me out of the house. THURS. (cold and calm with a comprehensive look at open window) And you came in by the window? (goes to window and closes it) IND. (x's L. of table c.) You heard me knock and you left me on the doorstep. THURS. You had due warning, (comes down to fireplace) IND. You sent me a nice message with my father to make me look ridiculous in the eyes of my own family I waited purposely 'till after one o'clock to prove to you that I am no servant (back of table) compelled to come back home at a stated hour or have the door shut in my face. You are my husband, not my jailer I am your wife, not your prisoner to be let out on parole. I give you full liberty of action if you do not give me the same, I shall take it, Thurston, I shall take it (x's to him and then to table) (working herself up into a paroxysm of rage) THURS. (coldly) I consult your wishes in any action of my life and I expect you to consult mine. I am your guide, your adviser, your superior in 80 HER LORD AND MASTER worldly knowledge. It is my duty to stand between you and the waywardness which will lead you in the wrong path. The true spirit of marriage duty ob ligation responsibility gives to love its most noble and enduring quality, (during this THURSTON moves forward c. INDIANA goes around L. end of sofa) IND. Go on, lecture the child into submission terrorize her into silence. Ah, you do not know me I will never forgive you until you come to me on your knees on your knees (back of sofa) THURS. (INDIANA leans head on hands on "back of sofa) I will never suffer again as you have made me suffer to-night the agony of watching hoping the disappointment the intolerable pain IND. (laughing sarcastically) Ah, you suffer you left me on the doorstep like an outcast and went calmly to sleep how dared you! How dared you (x's to him in front of chair L. of table c.) THURS. I dared because it was for your good. IND. Ha! Ha! A slave to bend at your will a character to be molded (sits on chair L. of table c.) THURS. (excitedly) No! no! no! you are not a doll to be fed and clothed and petted kept for my pleasure and vanity alone. I am not such a man, I hold you higher you are to me a responsible being whom I must respect and to accomplish that I must teach you first to respect yourself (R. of table) IND. Ah! insult now (rising) THURS. If there is to be any future for us, you must change your treatment of me. IND. Oh, must I? (x's to sofa L. and sits) THURS. I will not be the victim of your caprice to be dragged after you through life to beg for your favors to give up my career my brain my honor, and consider myself amply HER LORD AND MASTER 81 repaid when you give me your lips to kiss no you are no longer a child, you are the wife of a man who will not allow you to make him (!ND. laughing up to this point breaks off at the word "ridiculous," buries her face in her handkerchief to control herself) ridiculous before the world, 'nor submit to have the sacredness of his home violated and his deepest emotions coarsely discussed by strangers. IND. I make you ridiculous I and what have you done? How have you treated me you never loved me, you are a tyrant I have never had 'a happy moment with you. ( THURS. winces) I'm sorry I ever married you. I would undo it now if I could, (crescendo) WARN CURTAIN THURS. (turns with a cry of pain) Ah! IND. (turning on him) I mean it. I have never known a harsh word in my life. Everybody loved everybody petted me, and you (rises) to treat me like this I won't stand it, I tell you. (x's to him) I hate you standing there like ice I hate you I hate (losing all self-control, INDIANA lifts her fists as if to strike Mm in her rage with a sudden revulsion of feeling, THURSTON, with an exclamation of hor ror and abhorrence, turns away from her and rushes into his room shutting the door after him. IN DIANA, helpless and groping like a bewildered child} I I didn't mean it I didn't know what I was saying Oh! I hate myself not you, Thurston not you (x's to door R. 1 E.) (sobs) I want to ask you to forgive me Thurston. I'm so sorry Thurston (leans her head against the door) I want to tell you Oh ! it is too late too late (drops down by door R. 1 E. sobbing) CURTAIN 82 HER LORD AND MASTER ACT IV LIGHT PLOT. Same scene as Acts II and II L At rise House half up. Lamp lighted c. Can dles out. Foots, sides, 1st border and bunches L. 1 E., R. 1 and 2 E. up full. Remain enfire act. Fire almost out. Calcium amber from L. on to drop. Cue At entrance of LORD CANNING. Calcium white goes on to drop from R., remains through out act. SCENE. The same. TIME. Following morning. The lights are still lit. The fire out. Through the window strong daylight pouring into the room. DISCOVEEED. INDIANA sits on floor by sofa at fireplace, her head resting on sofa, arm hanging listlessly down, eyes closed, whole appearance disordered, hair untidy. A quiet, gentle knock a pause. JENNINGS steals quietly in comes down, sees INDIANA and shakes his head sadly. He has her wrap on his arm. INDIANA same dress as Acts II and III. Wrapped in shawl of Act II. JENNINGS, (softly) Your little ladyship. IND. (pathetically, raising her head) (wrapped in shawl) I wasn't asleep, Jennings, (shivers) JEN. You left this on the doorstep. IND. Did I? Yes, perhaps I did. (rising. Wraps her cloak about her shoulders, piteously) I I've been sitting here all night long. JEN. (takes shawl, puts it up stage E.) My poor Bairn it's a shame a shame HER LORD AND MASTER 83 IXD. Hush! He's in there (JENNINGS stand R. of c.) IND. (rising) I shall never be warm again (a knock at door startled) Who's that? JEN. (at door) No one will come in, your lady ship, I've ordered some tea and a bit of toast for you (x'ing to door L. takes the tray from some one outside and shuts the door, places tray on table) IND. Tea and toast ! ! ! Tea and toast ! ! (INDIANA goes to arm chair R. of table c.) JEN. Two pieces of sugar? IND. Yes. JEN. And a lot of cream? (JENNINGS business of fixing cup of tea) IND. (eagerly) Oh! thank you thank you, Jen nings, (takes cup from his hand) (drinks eagerly) Oh, that's good. I never tasted such delicious tea Is it a new kind? JEN. (shakes his head) Your little ladyship must be very hungry (hands her toast in rack INDIANA refuses it) IND. (li'ith a look of intense fear towards THURS- TON'S room ) Oh ! I'm miserable horribly miser able I've never been miserable before in my life when I hear a sound in there my heart jumps into my mouth Jennings, I can trust you. I know you won't say anything. JEN. No, your little ladyship. IND. Now, did I do so very wrong, did I? That I should be treated like this? (half sobs) JEN. It's cruel ! Cruel ! Your little ladyship. (wipes his eyes) Drink the tea that'll comfort you (L. of table) IND. (sweetly) Thank you, Jennings how good you are to me. Do you like me, Jennings, and do all the servants like me? JEN. They'd go through fire and water for your 84 HER LORD AND MASTER little ladyship, every mother's son of them and my lady I haven't seen her so cheerful since she lost Spitz her King Charles poodle, (starting to go) IND. (shudders) Jennings, stay here. Don't leave me! How long have you been with the fam ily, Jennings?. JEN. (putting out light an.d arranging table) sixty years your little ladyship. My father was gamekeeper for his Lordship's grandfather and when I was five years old I was taken into the house. IND. Sixty years and have you never thought of bettering yourself, Jennings? JEN. (proudly) Impossible to do better. My master was second only to princes in title and in heart second to none. It's a great satisfaction to look back on my life and know that what was given to me to do has been done faithfully. IND. (leaning over, very much interested) There are no old servants where I come from. Everybody wants to be masters and mistresses, (imitating her father's accent) JEN. It's a great privilege to serve those we respect. IND. Is it, Jennings? JEN. (warmly) It's more than pleasure to serve the right master, it's like pupil and teacher friend and friend. IND. (in chair E. of table c., who had for a mo ment forgotten herself starts presses her hand to her heart) Jennings, did you hear? Jennings! He's coming (the door from THURSTON'S room is unlocked. INDIANA sits holt upright almost par alyzed with fear JENNINGS exits quickly saying) JEN. It will come out all right it will come out all right (exit) HER LORD AND MASTER 85 (The door opens and THURSTON enters he is care fully dressed an,d carries himself proudly and relentlessly. As he enters INDIANA gives one swift glance at his face and then turns her eyes away. THUES. x's to L. of table as if going to door L. and then turns to INDIANA) THURS. I have weighed existing circumstances as fairly as possible and have concluded that our case is hopeless. (INDIANA raises her head sits with hands clasped looking straight before her and listening intently) The dread of a repetition of last night's frenzy degrading to me as a man to you as a woman and between husband and wife horrible (turns away to hide his agitation) Have you anything to say? IND. (weakly) Nothing, except I would like my maid. THURS. (kindly) I do not wish your maid to see you like this - - you must help yourself this morning, (turns up L. c. slightly) IND. (with an instinctive cry) Thurston! (he stops) THURS. I shall breakfast with my mother; when you are quite composed and ready to receive her she will come to you she thinks you retired early last night with a headache. IND. Ah ! She doesn't know I am glad of that very glad. THURS. You will go with your people to-day to Paris on a pleasure trip. You will return with them to America on a pleasure trip. I will break it to my mother slowly that you are not coming back (breaks down. Agitatedly) If you had loved me it might have been different but how could I expect it you have never been taught to love to sac rifice for love but only to demand sacrifices from 86 HER LORD AND MASTER others (INDIANA shudders) We must learn to love very early in life or we lose forever the fine signifi cance of that which makes our mature life perfect (rings the bell. INDIANA rises from chair and x's slowly to door L. c., THUBSTON'S eyes following her. She exits like one dazed and hopeless, as JENNINGS enters) If your Mistress should wish anything keep the other servants out I can rely on you, Jennings. JEN. You can, sir. (goes up c.) (Enter LORD STAFFORD with newspaper) STAF. Thurston breakfast is over your mother is uneasy ahout your absence (x's to fireplace) THURS. (hopelessly) I'll come at once. I'll come (goes out with his head down) JENNINGS, (comes down R. of table collecting dishes on tray L. exits. LORD S. shalces his head dolefully talcing out cigar case, carefully selects a cigar knock at door young Flunkey enters stops at entrance) FLUNKEY. The tray, please. The housekeeper says I'm to wait on her little ladyship in future JEN. (going close to him) Oh ! you are, are yer? the young puppy wants to sport himself in the drawing-room. Xow you go and tell Madame the Housekeeper that this toothless old watch dog will never wag his tail by the kitchen fire. Xo he'll follow his mistress till he drops down at her feet get out (FLUNKEY exits quickly JENNINGS takes tray jauntily on the palm of his hand) LORD S. (laughing heartily) Bravo! Bravo! Don't let the youngster depose you. JEN. (at entrance with a look) Not if I know it, my lord, (exits, mumbling at FLUNKEY) (LORD S. lights cigar his hand trembles, which holds the HER LORD AND MASTER 87 match, and he has some difficulty in lighting his cigar it goes out) LORD S. (looking at his shaking hand with a gesture of annoyance, throws down match} MRS. BUNKER, (outside) All right, I'll go right up, Jennings. LORD S. (with half grin) Grandma I guess (buries himself in his newspaper as GRANDMA CHAZY BUNKER enters dressed very fashionably, followed by JENNINGS) JEN. (anxiously) Her little ladyship left word she was not to be awakened, Madame MRS. B. (seeing LORD S. behind paper) Oh, very well let her sleep she needs it. Hello (to LORD S., slightly embarrassed at seeing LORD S.) LORD S. Howdy! (exit JENNINGS) MRS. B. Good morning, Lord Stafford. LORD S. I beg your pardon good morning, Mrs. Bunker, you look charming this morning. MRS. B. (L. c.) So Indiana is sleeping it off. LORD S. I'm sure I don't know. (R. c.) MRS. B. Did you see Thurston this morning? LORD S. Yes? MRS. B. He told you about LORD. S. Thurston said nothing I never ask questions. MRS. B. Well, you English are the closest- mouthed persons. Indiana refused to come home until Thurston fetched her neither would give in. Aren't you curious to know how it ended? LORD S. I'm burning to find out. MRS. B. (contemptuously) There's nothing burn ing about you but your cigar and that's gone out LORD S. (goes to table and puts down cigar on inkstand tray) So it is thank you 88 HER LORD AND MASTER MES B. (x to B. c.) We had a time getting her home. Do you think her mother and father had any influence with her not a bit Grandma Chazy did it. I sent the poor, deluded parents to bed and I got into my wrapper and fussed about my room while she sat by herself in the parlor working her self up into a rage about her husband's tyranny and every cab that passed rushing to the window to see if he was coming. Well, I grew tired of her rambling, so I went to bed she put her head into my room she found me fast asleep apparently no gallery to play to, you know of course she stopped. Grandma Chazy, where shall I sleep? On the sofa, dear, throw your cloak over you. I'd offer you half of mine but if s only a single bed. She slammed the door in a rage. Bo ! Ho ! Ho ! A few minutes later I peeked in and she was gone (goes up and sits B. of table) LOED S. (sit L. of table) If I ever marry it shan't be an American, thank you. MBS. B. Oh yes, you will, because you say you won't. LORD S. Oh then I shan't marry at all that's the safest way. (leaning elbows on table with fingers interlaced) MES. B. The most dangerous a man is never safe from marriage until he is married, (quickly reaches over with left hand and places it over his hands') LOED S. (jumps up indignantly then laughs, MES. B. loolfs at him then she laughs) Mrs Bunker you are really the liveliest woman I have ever met (x'ing to L. end of sofa) MRS. B. (rising and following L. c.) One must keep things going with you or or it would be dead slow LOED S. So you think I'm an extinct crater, eh? HER LORD AND MASTER 89 MRS. B. I never said so. An extinct crater is a place where there was once a fire burning, (sits on R. end of sofa) LORD S. Oh ! I say don't be too sharp you don't know that MRS. B. (calmly) I'll prove it (LORD S. stag gered) A titled man with a good income and good record who has lived all these years unmarried must have been either personally unattractive to women (LORD S., offended, rises) or beastly self ish, (rises) LORD S. (x's to c. with rheumatic walk and then pulls himself together, x'ing R. turns to MRS. B.) (rather baffled, coming down close to her) By George I'll prove to you that I am not unattrac tive to woman, (back to c., meets MRS. B. holding out his hands) (laughs) Mrs. Bunker what would the world say if, after all these years I make a fool of myself and ask you to marry me? MRS. B. Lord Stafford, as old as you are, you have not yet cut your wisdom tooth, or you would not propose to me in that way. LORD S. Suppose I cut it on that question? MRS. B. Oh, don't! The pain of the answer might give you a heartache. LORD S. Does yours ever ache? MRS. B. What, my wisdom tooth? LORD S. No! (x'ing to fireplace) The only tooth that aches a woman is the tooth of time (turns quickly as if to apologize for having forgotten him self) " MRS. S. (c.) Oh ! Oh ! I call a halt LORD S. (following up his advantage and com ing back to her) And if I prove to you that I have enough fire left to divide between myself and an other what then? 90 HER LORD AND MASTER MBS. B. (innocently) Ah! but that would take time and we leave for Paris to-day. LOED. S. (contemplatively, R. of c.) Oh! well perhaps I'll run over with you I know my Paris as well as most Englishmen. MRS. B. (L. of c.) You haven't asked if your company would be agreeable. LORD. S. No that's so. I took it for granted. MRS. B. Never take anything for granted with a woman. LORD. S. Does that mean I'm to go or not? MRS. B. Prove you know your United States, guess! (x to K. c., turns and meets THURSTON who enters, followed by MR. and MRS. STILLWATER who go. MR. S. up L. c., MRS. S. down L.) Thurston, I'm dying to see Indiana. (LORD S. bows to MR. and MRS. S. and goes to fireplace) THURS. (to c. seriously) One moment, my dear Mrs. Bunker I have plans for the future, which is well for you to know. (MR. and MRS. S. dis- turbed) MRS. B. (R. c.) Don't make any plans and don't look so serious you've made up your mind to something, I can see that but she'll upset it all you don't know Indiana. THURS. No and I never shall Mr. Still- water your daughter is very anxious to go with you to Paris and I have consented MRS. S. (in front of sofa) How good of you to let her. It is the only thing to complete my hap piness. MRS. B. I don't approve of it. (goes up to seat at fireplace and sits) THURS. I am about making arrangements for a prolonged trip for scientific purposes which will keep me out of England and I think it well for HER LORD AND MASTER 91 your daughter to go home with you until my mis sion is over. MES. S. (at B. end and above sofa L.) Nothing would suit us better but my dear fellow is it good for a young married couple to separate so soon ? THUES. Xo, it is not good. MR. S. Must you go? THUES. (raising his eyes and looking ME. S. full in the face) I must. ME. S. Well, I, for one, don't like it. (puzzled) How long do you expect to be away? THUES. For several months perhaps forever (All start apprehensively. MES. B. rises as if to speak. The door of INDIANA'S room B. 1 E. is thrown open and she appears. She is dressed in a light house gown her appearance fresh and her face beaming with smiles a direct con trast to her former appearance she looks as she had not a care in the world.) IND. (in light, sweet, caressing tones) Good morn ing, everybody, (all appear relieved and smile in return, except THUES., who, rooted to the ground c., stands staring at her aghast. She comes with outstretched hands to LOED S.) Dear Uncle Gerald, you want to kiss me good morning, don't you. Well, you shall, (puts up her mouth to be kissed then, flitting airily to ME. S. she puts her arms about his neck and nestles up to him) You dear old pop, I love you so. (rubs her face against his) I was naughty last night, wasn't I. Don't tell anybody. You forgive me, don't you? There (kisses him a number of times and floats out of his arms to her mother down L. ME. S. goes up L. c.) You old goosie, you were afraid I wouldn't go home. Why didn't you take me by the shoulders and push me out? But you couldn't be harsh with your little 92 HER LORD AND MASTER Indy, your baby your only one. I love you so. (MRS. S. in an ecstasy of joy is murmuring all sorts of caressing words over INDIANA as if she were a child. INDIANA comes to MRS. B. and stands look ing at her half undecided how to approach her) MRS. B. (her face relaxes into a smile and she shaJces her finger warningly at INDIANA) You little monkey. IND. (makes a good-natured grimace at her and x's to THURSTON and giving him a swift look puts up her cheek demurely) Good morning, Thurston. (THURSTON hesitates, then kisses her) IND. (quickly, sweetly) Ah, here's dear Lady Canning, (enter LADY C. MR. and MRS. S. recog nize her as she enters. THURS. goes up R. c., takes book from table and stands looking into it) LADY C. (graciously) Good morning, (takes IN DIANA'S outstretched hand, who comes to her L. c.) I'm so worried about this child I wanted to come in and see you last night, dear, but Thurston wouldn't let me. I wanted to come in early this morning and Jennings wouldn't let me. Are you sure you feel quite well again ? IND. (brightly, sits in c. of sofa, LADY C. on L. of her, MRS. S. R. of her and MR. S. stands back of sofa) Splendidly. It was a bad spell while it lasted, but it's all over now I feel so much better. I won't have another attack for a long time, I hope, never a bad spell is good for something it makes me real ize how much everybody loves me and how much I love everybody and I do love you and you (kisses MRS. S.) and you dear Lady Canning, (kisses LADY C.) LADY C. (overcome) My darling! MRS. S. Darling, your husband says you are com ing to Paris with us. IND. (to LADY C.) I want you to scold Thurston. HER LORD AND MASTER 93 He's too good. He's given in to them because they are dying for me to go, but I won't ! I won't. I won't leave him dear Lady Canning. MRS. S. Oh! Indy! MR. S. We can afford to compromise. You are coming home with us while he is on his trip. IND. (quickly) What trip? LADY C. (severely) Thurston (puts her arms about INDIANA) He has an insane desire to go to the North Pole. But I thought marriage would cure him of it. Indiana, put down your foot down once and for all, and refuse your consent. IND. (sweetly) I put down my foot oh, dear, no! He's the master. (MRS. S. and MRS. B. nearly topple over with astonishment) MRS. B. I can't stand this. Are you going to Paris with us or not? IND. (offended, rises and x's to c.) Grandma Chazy, I'm a married woman. I can't be running about like a young girl. (LADY C. puts her arm about INDIANA) MRS. B. Are you going or are you not! THURS. Yes, it's best. MRS. S. That settles it. (x'ing to door) Good morning, Lady Canning, (exit L. 1 E.) MR. S. We'll just run around to the hotel and get our things and call for you on our way to the station. Good morning, Lady Canning, (exit L. 1 E) MRS. B. (x'ing to sofa. THURSTON comes down following her every move with his eyes) Good morn ing, Lady Canning I wish I had your complexion, yes I do. (x's to door L. 1 E. LORD S. has followed her to the door, back of sofa) Good morning, Lord Stafford. LORD S. (under his mustache) May I go over to Paris with you? MRS. B. It's up to you. (exit L. 1 E.) 94 HER LORD AND MASTER LORD S. I go (exit L. 1 E.) IND. Oh! (LORD S. follows GRANDMA C. out, leaving LADY C., THURS. up H., INDIANA watching them her face very serious) LADY C. Thurston, is anything wrong between you and Indiana? THURS. Nothing, mother. (INDIANA up, listen ing with every nerve) LADY C. How could you think of doing such a cruel thing, (x'ing to INDIANA) THURS. (above table c.) I mean to do it, mother. LADY C. Thurston, you are developing a very bad temper. You you have never before acted in such an inconsistent inconsiderate manner and with such a sweet wife you don't deserve her. It really doesn't do for a woman to love her husband too much Indiana has spoiled you. IND. (R. c., pleadingly) Don't scold him. LADY C. I do not wish to see you again until you tell me that you have abandoned this foolhardy, heartless idea for good and all. (goes up with INDIANA toward door R. 3 E.) My darling, for give him for my sake. IND. (angelically) I will, dear Lady Canning. I It's very weak I know, but I couldn't be harsh with him no matter what he did. (THURSTON aghast in a whisper) Leave him to me it will be all right, (exit LADY C., R. 2 E. INDIANA comes down back of sofa R.) THURS. You have played your part well (IN DIANA raises her eyes supplicatingly, then drops them again) IND. I wasn't acting I THURS. (in horror) And you can be so light hearted IND. No! No! I was acting. I mean I felt the HER LORD AND MASTER 95 part I do love everybody and I want to be good again and make up (c.) THUES. Cease playing the spoilt child. (IN DIANA watches him sharply he turns quickly she drops her eyes demurely lips quivering like a child) IND. (seriously) Now it's wrong of you to be so hard with me. I was good, wasn't I? for three months and then when the folks rushed down on me like a river breaking the dam, and I saw the difference in them in myself and I broke out that's all. Thurston, if you go away will you let me stay with your mother? (at table c.) THUES. (up E. c.) As long as all the love is on my side my wishes will always be commands to you There should be no questions between a man and wife who love each other. It could not have ended otherwise. I shall make arrangements for your de parture. IND. But can't I say good-bye to Mother, I mean Lady Canning? LOED C. (above sofa E. c.) Better go before she returns. (!ND. x's to door E. 1 E.) IND. (turns at door) I am going to Paris with my people against my will and because you insist upon it and because I accept it as your wish that I shall not return. THUES. (up E. c.) Not as my wish but as an inevitable result. I trusted to my strength to win your love and I have failed. It is not your fault it is your youth that is to blame. IND. I am not younger now than when I mar ried you and then you loved my youth, my wilful- ness, my faults. I do not think it is honorable on your part to throw me over now because of those old faults and I have not developed any new ones so far. (THUES. smile involuntarily) (x's to seat near him) Thurston (stretching out her hands) 96 HER LORD AND MASTER Won't you shake hands with me, Good-bye (THUKS. extends his hand with his eyes averted, INDIANA grasps it quickly and with a sigh of relief holds it fast) ( THUKS. tries to get IXD. away) IND. (desperately} You shall listen to me. I won't let you go until you've heard it. All my life I have queened it over people delighting to feel my power to make the poor things who loved me bend to my will. Last night I saw the loathing in your face, when you turned from me and ( THUKS. breaks away and down c. IXD. goes to him) Thurs- ton, how could you have expected me to be so differ ent. It wouldn't be natural if I was. I wanted to queen it over my husband, to be put on a pedestal and worshipped. I thought it enough if I let him love me I never thought it was better to love than to be loved, to serve than to be served. Thurston, take my two hands hold them fast I I love you. (directly in front of him) THUKS. Indiana, for God's sake, don't play with me again. IND. I love you. (she draws his head down and kisses him) (they embrace) WAEN CURTAIN THUKS. Darling, I kept my promise, I did not give in. IND. Yes, but I didn't think you'd keep it so hard. JEN. The cab is waiting. IND. (looks at THUKS., then goes up to window c., opens it and looks out) THUKS. (x's to R. c.) Tell Mr. Stillwater that Lady Canning has taken a woman's privilege. You understand ? HER LORD AND MASTER 97 JEN. (with a broad grin) Yes, sir\ I under stand. Her ladyship's changed her mind, (exits in great delight) IND. (at window with THUES.) There they all are, I'm not going. We've made it up. Good-bye. God bless you God bless you all. (turns to THUES.) Thurston, I'll never break out again (come down to him) THUES. Yes you will, but I shall have love to help me. (Enter JEN. followed ~by GLEN GLEN sees the em brace and exits L. 1 E. quickly) JEN. Mr. Stillwater says there's just time to catch the train (!XD. goes to window) IND. I'm not going God bless you good-bye > Oh, they're coining up (to THUES.) What will you say? What will you say? (enter family L. 1 B. ME. S. and MES. B. above sofa. MES. B. down L. LOED S. enters R. 2 E., goes to MES. B. c. LADY 0. enters E. 1 E. to E. c.) We've made it up (L. of THUES. who has his arm around her) ME. S. My boy, how did you manage it? Tnurs. (with a look at IND., who awaits breath lessly his answer) Oh ! I gave in FAMILY. That's right, my boy, etc. CONGRATULATIONS PICTUEE CURTAIN DATE DUE SHELF BINDER Syracuse, N. Y. Stockton, Calif. UNIVERSITY OF CA.. RIVERSIDE LIBRARY SITY OF CA.. RIVERSi: II iliili 3 1210007563024