ML UC-NRLF B ^ 337 tm3 >. CSV. mm w^^- -1^ ^^^■ cse^, I COUIlKCTf-Y PKINTBÜ PROM THK MOST AUTHENTIC AKD APPROVKD ACTING COPY, AS NOAV PKRFORMED BY THE RICHINGS ENGLISH OPERA COMPANY fa PHILADELPHIA: ^ LEDGER JOB PRINTING OFFICE 1867. n ^pera, in Mont ^rts, ADAPTED BY C. M. RICPIINGS. .cjer^l^^^^fc. -^^ % ^ virra. A. Fomn d^ go.^ No. 547 BROADWAY, N. Y., full attention to the following Songs, sung by Mr. "Wra. Castle, of the Rioliings Opera Troupe. Farewell W. J. H, Graham. 35 cents. I arise from Dreams of Thee W. J. H. Graliam. 35 cents. Beware J. E. Perring. 50 cents. Also, publishers of all the Sqngs from the Englisli Operas sung by Mr. Castle. Tlie Popular Songs sung b.v Mr. S, C. Campbell, the favorite Baritone. Do I Love you? Lavallee. 3.5 cents. Thou art the Star Gumbert. 35 cents. Lost Hope Geo. W. Morgan. 50 oents. Slumber Song A, H. Wood. 50 cents. Also all the Songs from favorite Operas sung by Mr. Campbell. Copfes sent by mail. WM. A. POND &. CO., No. 547 Broadway, N. Y. WM. A. POND & CO.'S . ♦ . No. 1. Made of Maple, beautifully poliished, with Wood Case, cloth lined, and patent head $25 00 No. 2. Made of Rosewood, Spanish model, wood case, cloth lined, patent head 30 00 No. 3. do. do. do. do. 35 (X) No. 4. do. do. do. do. 40 00 No. 5. do. do. do. do, 50 00 The above instruments are equal in tone and finish to any that are made. Sent by express (with an extra set of strings gratis), on receipt of the money. WM. A. POND & CO., No. 547 Broadway, N. Y. 926 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, AND DEALER IN Sfet)©t Mmete» Mm^i^ ®@®k@ (^ Mmeteal Keeps constantly on hand. Vocal and Instrumental Scenes, Songs, Arias, and Piano Forte Selections of all the Operas performed by the English and Italian Opera Companies. All New Music published In the country received ivs soon as issued. Music and Books sent by mall, postage paid, on receipt of the marke«! price. 3^ , jLisT (df:ej:r^ iisr ifoxti?. ^ots. MUSIG BT iFLOTOW. ADAPTED BT C. M. RICHINGS. kS PERFORMED BT THB RICHINGS ENGLISH OPERA COMPANT, PHILADELPHIA: LEDGER JOB PBINTING OFFICE. 1867. /^vjö/ü. p. Jc^rr SfKnH 'Mvr ■:;; ::■ ';]• ML ro DRAMATIS PERSONS. PLUNKETT, a Tvealthy young Farmer. LIONEL, his adopted Brother; aftet'«*^ai'd8' Earl of Derby. Lord TUISTAÜT MICKLEP^l^D,tiady Harriet'fl^^oTiäfa. THE SHERIFF OF RiOHMOND. ■;• ,^h. .t, FOOTMAN TO LADY HARRIET. FIRST FARMER. SECOND FARMER. LADY HARRIET DURHAM, Maid of ftonor to the Queen. NANCY, her waiting Maid. MOLLY PITT, 1 • POLLY SMITH, f Servant Girls. BETSY WITT, J FARMER'S WIFE banners, Farmers' Wives, Servants, Ladi«», Htinters> Huntresses and Footmen. M\A R T H a. [Act I. Your cold, haughty heart to win ! Is there aught in this alarming ? Is there aught alarming? Lady. Vain belief! how can rejoice me Such insipid, idle love ? For to please and interest me FlalÄery is* nit enough ! Nan. — Riofcies heaip-An you their treasure3> Honor high is offer'd you. Lady. In the midst of gold and pleasures "Weariness alone I see. Nancy. That is really too distressing; Hers is call'd a brilliant lot ! If not love does work a wonder. Fades this flower and blossoms not I It is really too distressing; Hers is called a brilliant lot! If not love does work a wonder, Fades this flower and blossoms not. Balls and tournaments are giving, And your colors win the prize, Proudly from the banners waving. While the victor vainly sighs For a smile from your fair eyes. Which his armor penetrated! Lady. All my glowing ardent wishes Please me not, are they fulfill'd ! What a happiness I dreamed Always has disgust instill'd. The homages they offer, Praise and honor they bestow Leave me joyless, once obtained Do not make with pride me glow. Nan. Then, from ennui to save you, Nothing is for you remaining But to let your heart be conquered, Not a particle retaining I [Tristan announced hy a footman.'] Foot. Sir Tristan of Mickleford ! Member of the house of Lords ! Knight with many orders honor'd — Lady, {interrupting hiyn.) Wfe will spare you the remaindei Tri. {entering.) Most respected gracious cousin. Lady of Her Majesty — Most respectfully I venture— LadA/^. {impatiently.) Quick, my lord, for time doth flee. Tri. May I inquire — Lady. You may. Sir. Tri. If the. night has brought you rest, And for new diversions zest? Lady. Answer, Nancy I Nan. {to Tristan.) Little, Sir. Tri. . ;- ;;.'!-- iDfeign to listeu to the programme I've laid out for us to-day: Luncheon at the donkey-races — Nan. (Incomplete without my lord!) Tri. . .' Thona promeaade — Lady. Not with me. Sir ! Tri. Then a hofse-race— Lady, {ironically.) Where you will , , , , , , Throughthe lightness of yoi^ "body Surely win all the prizes. ^ . / ' ^ ,' {aside.) 'Äh, what m!i(liaesß,'gi:09S aija ^ai'lif]^, What display of vanity; BCENE I.] MARTHA. 7 Idle fancies make him daring, And he feigns to sigh for me. Tri. *»— See her smiUng and delighted .;-^ My devotion to behold. ,,.\ Yes, to move her heart of niarble Takes a lover shrewd and bold. Nan. [to Tristan.; See her smiling and delighted , /, Your devotion to behold J ■ Press your suit with fire and ardor ,; Be a lover brave and bold. Tri. {to Lady.) Tournament ? Lad^. Bah! my fan, Sir! Tri. (fetches and presents it.) Boat excursion ? Lady. Please, my perfume I ,. [Tristan fetches it as b^ore. Nan. (His love evaporates already.) Lady. How. ehilly fetels the air ? Would you close the window, cousin ? [Tristan goes and shuts it. Tri. (aside.) Camp- work! Lady. ' Oh ! thi? atmosphere — Air — the window — Tri. Open? - Lady. Aye, Sir! '• ' •, [Tristan re-opens it. Nan. (My lord's running for the prize !) [Here the song of Servant-girls, bound for the fair at Riahmondyis-heardfrom outside.] CHORUS OF SErVIk^ ÖIRLS. liight and gav, all the ds^j^t^'n^, Street and lane. (iwa. Rings along Merry song, Till the night silence bids. Pleasure starts^ Glee imparts, , , , Cneerful songs ^ youth^l iiQarts. , r Traveling thus, Sorrowless, -..V Are we to the Richmond mart. -■, Lady. Hark, what sounds ? !'- ' '- Nancy. How gay a chorus I > \ Tri. Gay? Pshaw! Common, Miss, sa^.L ■■'■ i; Lady, Happy people these must be ! ' • , ' .'A Tri. Know these people happiness? [The Chorus is repeated outside. Nan. (who has gone to the window, and looked at the singers.) To the Servants' Fair, at Richmond, These plump lasses way are making, Where the sturdy minded farmers Smart survey of them are taking,- . . .; Carrying each ä bundle light, And their bonnets, flower-deck'd, ■ ^,,.< To the dance first, then to wqrk '^' Wainder they, witn'lightsdme' hearts'! Tri, Dull affair!' Nan. Time-honor'd custom ! Lady. Ah ! most charming rural scene I Could I, unknown, with them mingle . ^ On the luscious village green ! j| Tri. Absurd wish this ! Lady, How obliging ! Follow I shall my fancy now, Just to tease you| noble Lprdship ! Tri, Lady! Cousin ! Heifir fright? § M^ÄiRTHA;' [Aoa- I. ^ Lady. Naiicy, find us peasant dresses, To those lasses, garments ftia;ted ! Tri. Might I ne'er thus see you hum billed f .o-, v Lady. Humbled, cousin, elevated ! {Laughing.) New-made rustics at a hop, Martha, Nanöy, and Sir Bob ! Tvi. Whovis Bob? Lady. Bob are you ! Tri. ISTo, noti! Be Bob who may ! Lady, {approaching him with feigned tenderness.) How ? Tristan ! Is this your afi^ection? Your good heart prompts your consenting. Take this sign of my relenting ! [Gi-Des him a bou^fuet Tri., {sighing.) Ah! 'Lady. ITow, my ever laughing Nancy, Teach him how the peasants dance! Tri. (When will end these Whims tormenting?) •Lady. Lay aside your graceful manners, Stiff and heavy move about ! Nan. Feet bent outward, bold and wayward, Briskly, crisply stamp the floor ; Hat knock'd shapeless, half tipp'd over, Beel and swagger to and fro ! > Tri. Ah, how can I ? • Lady. 'Tis my pleasure ! Tri. Never! no! ' ' '' ' Lady. From left to. right ! Tri. I, a Lord ! Nan. A noble sport ! You'll easily catch the spirit, my lord ! Tra, la, la. [They make him dance. Lady. Quicker move you — Nan. 'Twill improve you ! Tri. Mercy ! I'm out of breath. Lady. Less of polish I Nan. Imitate, Sir, genuine nature. Tri. Nature? How? It were my death. ^ Lady, "What prodigious agility I Bravo! bravo! what vigor ! Tri. What tormenting exercises ! Enough! Or I shall faint! Nan. How graceful, what handsome bearing! , / ;* ii I cannot help admiring him ! ' , M Tri. (I look veiry much like a bear ; y .^ - Whom monkeys are forcing to dance.) [Exeunt, dancing. "T SCENE THE SECOND. Market-place at Richmond. — Tßnis., 8hopf^,^^tahle!S,'b^^che8^&G. — Far- mers^ Peasants, afterwards Sef^iVanU^/i CHORUS. :.;" Maidens, bright and fair, , aO^'^. Draw near, draw near; free is the Fair I Hither hasten quick; ' ^ Through diligence lies the way to luck I ' . Haste you, hasten, cheerful lasses. Be not tardy on your way, For the Fair Vi ll soon be open, And advancing Is the day. "^ ' Scene IL] MARTHA. 9 Done ! and the bargain consummated Neither party can nndo it; Is the servant faithful, honest, Neither party then will rue it. ■ They are coming, gaily singing ; .Let us meet them, welcome bringing. [Enter Liokeii and Plunkett.] . • Phi. What a clatt'ring, what a prattling, Volleys of bewild'ring sound ! Healthy tongues, that know their business. In this motley crowd abound. Well, my brother, a selection Hast thou made with circumspection ? LiQ. Ah ! what for ? m Plu. What for? Assistance On our farm we sadly need — r.T) Which (our mother hath so wilPd it) '»?. Köw together we must keep. Lio. Blessed be her me'm'ry ever 1 •')" Plu. Aye I she was an excellent soulj •■ ■ • ••'■^ Such a manager was never Born to bustle, to control. Thine were always her caresses 1 Tender liearted! well they might; I, more sturdy, got the scoldings : As her child, they were my right. Lio. You, dear brother ! Plu, Thou art calling Not a soul to love thee, thine ; Friends and kinsman never knew'st thou, Should not then their place be mine? Ho, Lost, proscrib'd, a friendless pilgrim. Sinking at your cottage door, 'Neath your friendly roof sought shelter; In his arms his son he bore. This poor pilgrim was my father,« Who to you did me confide; With his dying breath imploring That his child through life you'd guide. Plu, We have never learnt his station, .•\'^\^^6 Never learnt your father's rank;' All he left to tell the secret ' ..,fO Is the jewel on your hand. .'; ^'If your fate should ever darken," '') Quoth he, " show it to the Queen, She will save you, she will guard you When no other help is seen." • Lio, ■ Here in peace and sweet contentment Have I pass'd my life with you; Stronger, daily, grew a friendship That forever lasts, when true. Brother, think not wealth and splendor, , ■ If perchance they e'er be mine. Can as happy this heart render ,,., As the friendship fix'd in thine ! j} [The clock strikes mid' day, Cho. Hark, hark, the bell ! In wig and robe The. SheitJff comes the Fair to opel ',>-,;. irio'l ,«• vi Draw neary now, lasses, gather round j,..>Ä f- »^ x<>'A^ Sher. [entering pompously.) / at ä< !-'- v r T ,,-^ For your government a space Open, low-bred populace ! , ,t Cho. For the government, leave a space ! 10 'WA R T H A. [ A CT I. /SÄer. {unfolding a large p^äfSk'ment.) I shall now the law expound; Listen all, -conrie clpse around. "Anna, we, the Queen of England," (Hats off, as I hav't. myself: Never comes amiss politeness,) " We acknowledge by this Act" These to be the rules exact Of the yearly Richmond Fair: That all contracts made with servants In the open market here, Shall be binding with both parties For the then ensuing year. Not a power there is can break them. If money has been given and taken. Did you hear? Cho. We knew it this long time. Sher, Now, my girls, we'll learn your virtues. [ One of the servants advances. Tell us yours first, Molly Pitt. First 8&. I'm in sowing, and in mowing, ' And in reaping, cutting, sweeping, Cutting, knitting, dresses fitting. Quite expert, believe me, Sir. Sher. Price, four guineas ! Who'll engage her? A Farmer. I will run the risk and danger. Sher. What can you do, Polly Smith? Second. Ser. (advancing.) I'm at baking, pudding making, .••','• Roasting, broiling, stewing, boiling, Sw,«et8 abounditig, cakes compounding. Rated as a first-rate hand. Sher. Price, five' guineas! Who will try her? .•'.'-.'. A Farmer's wife. I will. Mister. €ity-crier ! Sher. What! can you- do, Betsy Witt ? Third Ser. {advancing.) To my masler I shall prove me Faithful warden of the garden, Digging, sowing, reaping, mowing, Andlhe poultry feeding well. Sher. KHty Bell and Liddy Well, .«''\ And Nelly Bo» and Sally Fox ! Cho. I can well take care of babies, Feed them, dress tlw>-m, rock to sleep them. Chickens, pigeons, duf^ks I know how to provide for. I woulditry it, if I can, With some nice oM gentleman. Lone old' widowier he might be, With no other help but me. Sher. Tour cackling stop! You make me deaf ! Farmers. Ready to trad©' we are ; Look y« for masters now ! {All gailier round the mugistrate. [Eater Lady Harriet, Nangt, Tuistan, m pecwan^«' dresses; afterwards Lionel and Plunkett.] Lady, Forward, Bob ! What ! need you pulling ? Ifan. Bob, mv friend, why look so sour? Tri. Bob? oh fie! (There's no escaping ■■•,:r.',\ . / Since I am in Amor's pow'r!) Lady & Nan. How with full contentment beaming Ev'ry sunburftt face appears ! ^CM^^ II.] MARTHA. 11 Tri. ' I'm with rage and anger teeming, And can scarce withhold my tears. Plu. (entering with Lionel.) Thunder ! there's a brace of darlings ! Ino. Aye, indeed, they're young and fair! Piu. Much too fair for heavy labor. Lio. For housework too ? Plu. That they might bear. Tri. Note these fellows keenly staring 1 Let's begone ! Ladi/ & Nan. We're pleased to stay. • Tri. Quite suspicious is their bearing. Come, begone! Lady. No ; I'm your servant noc, Nor is such place to my liking. Tri. Nonsense ! Stay then ; be it so. Nan. [seeing herself observed by Plunkett and Lionel.) {To Tristan.) Well, I think you'll have to face it, if with you she will not gol Lady. No, with him I will not go. Plu. & Lio. You hear it. Sir? She will not go. Plu. Comfort take ! There's others yet. Girls! you yonder! Hither hasten ; Here's a bidder, guinea laden! Tri. How malicious ! Lady & Nan. Fun delicious ! [The girls eomeforwa/rd and surround Tristan. All. I'm in sowing, and in mowing, Ac. Lady & Nan, How they bother and distress him. With tumultuous noises press him ! Closer round him draws their circle. And he yields in awkward flight 1 Tri. My dilemma is dismaying! Naughty witches, stoj) your braying ! To appease them nought availeth, Reason faileth. Flight alone may save me yet. [Tristan retreats from the stage, followed by the servant girls. Lady. Nancy! See them eye us keenly! Nan. Yes, we please, for all I, know. Pbi. (to Lionel.) One of them would suit exactly, Lio. Would you separate them ? No ! Lady, (to Nancy.) Is he not a bashful fellow? Wonder how such peasant talks. Nan. Plain, for one thing ! Plu. (^ Lionel.) Why so timid? Go, address them ! Lio. Friend> I'lh afraid. Plu. Ah, poltroon ! Look how I do it. lAdvances towards the ladies, as if .to speak to them, but checks himself and returns.} Nan. He too is dumb ! Stupid things! ' Let us go. Lady. Yes, let us go. Lio. Friend they're going. Plu. 'Twere too bad. Lady & Nan. Now indeed our leave we may be takings Since their bashfulness thus our enjoyment mars. Our bold game at this point terminating Leaves us but to bless our lucky stars ! Yes indeed our leave we may be taking. Since their bashfulness thus our enjoyment mars : Our bold gaime at this point terminating , Leaves us but to praise our lucky stars ! ^k MARTHA. [Act I. I/io. d- riu. Such rare chance must not slip by untaken, Servant girls like those dre jewels seldom found ! Those arch looks my lieart have sorely shaken; Not without her shall I leave this place! Phi. (Courage, Plunkett!) {Advances resolutely. Wait one minute ! You're our choice, girls — have no fears I If you're honest, smart and thrifty, May we be together years. lAo. Yes, for years. Lady. And serving you, Sir? Nan. {hill (.liing.) Ha, ha, ha, ha! Lio. You're laughing ? Flu. Letthi^il Why not laughing earn one's money, If the work is done as well? Lady and Xan. Work? we? Plu. {to Nancy.) Geese and' pigs and chickens :'■' Bhall be entrusted to your care. (to Laby Harriet.) You shall till with hoe and shovel Field and garden. 'Lio. Friend, forbear; She is poorly built for farming; She may at' home — Plu. Our socks be darning. Fifty crowns your yearly wages, And for extras we'll throw in Half a pint of ale on Sundays, '■■'■' • ■ Atid plum pudding New-year's day. Lady d- Nan. Who'd refuse such tempting offer? Lio. & Plu. Yes ? Ladfj & Nan. Yes, yes ! ■ [ They shake hands. Lio. & Plu. Here — take your money; For the journey quick prepare ! - . ,,. [Tristan re-appears upon the stage, still pursued hy iheßervants.] Tri. Go — leaveoff— here's money, wenches! Plague upon your crazy band I [He throws thetn a purse; the girls desist. Seeing the Ladies converse with Lioirtiki'^ond PliUNKETT.j , • ;; Ho ! What's this ? You are forgetting — Come away I [Advancing towards Plunkett. Plu. (brusquely.) What may you want? Lady da Nan. Yes, we'll go. Plu. I'd like to see you ! Money binds you ! Tri. To be bor'd ! Know then — : -Lady, {aside ip Tristan.) So you want my ruin ? ■_.'-',;\'\.:\-/. ■■>:'\ '.'What if this transpires at court! 2^an. We should be disgraced forever ! Rather die — but tell them never. Tri. Come then ! [Tries to lead the Ladies off. Plu. {chccJdng him.) Remain you ! We have hir'd you for a year; Ask the Sherifi", he'll attest it, Ar^d will show our title clear. Slier, d- Cho. If there's money given and taken The bargain must remain unshaken. Yes, the law knows no relenting. S-ince you're bound by free consenting, Nought can free you from your fetters Now, until.a year is o'er 1 SCENE II.] MÄETHA. 13 Aye, lass, the bftrgain'3 made! Aye, lass, the money's paid ! Sacred keep your vows. And never swerve from duty's path. Fickle heart» and minds Are justly shunned by honest men. Act the Sj^pond. * '• ■ ■ • .,*',• ■ ' ■■ ■ scene,\the, Fiia^'.T..,, The interior of^ PlunkeiVa Farim-hou^^ [Lionel, PLUNk%OTjr.'LAT)Y HarrIeti^ drld Nancy.] Lio. & Flu. This is your fature dwelling ; And traveling has an end. Lady & Nan. We're refäping for our folly Full measur'd punishment I Lio. & Flu. Our house and hoMe are yours now. Their comfort you will share. • Lady & Nari. Their house^and home are ours now, we unhaptxf pa/ir I > •... h Lio. & Plu. At dawn of day And morn's^rst glimpse Be up and stiraböütl ■ •. - 'i' ' ■■:. Lady & Nan. What vulgar ways they iriälö»' il$ tftlw!i;"T u Before the-' Sun is out ! ' ■.■■'•-\' t ü- j-j-fi: :'oY More monströ-üB things they'll next'wDmmaiia That we never heard about! -i. i i Lio. And extra crowns your purse will see Before the-yeär is out! * Plu. {pointing to door.) TJjis door leads to j^our chamber ! Lady, {starting to go to it.) Then we bid you good-night. iVan. Good-night! ,..' .\..,.^ Plu, Not quite sofasfc^Hflrst get us some sjipper— girls ! Lady. Get supper ! tli,e barbarians ! iVan. Get supper! get it yourself! .,•,...,.,,... Lio. Why not let them go? • They?re.tired^-«/ov xJ-riW Plu. It won't do to. be too kind. ^ ?t ,- ;.Y.n-^<^ Nan. What a brute! .^v" Plu. Stop a bit—what are your names ? Lady. Names!;,. Nan. Names! Lio. Yes — what are you called? Plu. You're a pair of smart lasses— haven't you any names. Xacf^. (Äm^a^möT.) Mine is Martha. Lio. Martha! Lady. Yes! Plu. {to Nancy.) Well— and yours? 14 MARTHA. [Act II. Nan. {aside.) Wh&t sh&lll s&y 7 Plu. Don't you know it ? Nan. Ju-li-a! Plu. {imitating her.) Julia! You're highly nanied— girl— but I like it ! {ironically.) Julia— will your ladyship take my cloak and hat off? Nan, {pertly.) Do it yourself. Plu. {roughly.) Well !— you're a saucy one ! I'll make you— Lio. {interposing.) Nay — don't be so blunt — you frighten the girl! Don't order her— do like me? Request her mildly— I'll show you. {mildly.) Martha — will you please to take my hat and cloak. [J3e takes off his hat and cloak and holds them out to Lady H., ivho turns her hack upon Jivm and go^esup the itage. IaIO^^Jj is obliged to pick them up and hang them himself. '\ Lio. & Flu. Surpris'd I am and astounded, And I can say no more ; Such impudence unbounded Was never seen before. Lady dh Nan. Surpris'd they're and confounded, And sorely puzzled is their brain; This blow has smartly sounded. May be they'll never try again ! Plu, Quick now, fetch the spinning-wheels From out the corner !• Lady & Nan. Do you want us then to spin? Lio. Yes, most surely. Plu. Do you think That for talking we engag'd you? Lady & Nan. Ha, ha,; ha ! To see us spinning ! Plu. Ha, ha, ha ! To see you spinning I If you want your wages paid You must earn them first, my maid. ■Oome and make then a beginning. Fetch the wheels now ! Lady & Nan. We obey, sir ! Lio. {to Plunkett.) Not so harsh, you frighten them. IThe ladies fetch the wheels and place them in the foreground. Plu. Pshaw ! Begin then, I command it. Lady & Nan. I cannot 1 Lio. & Plu. How? What? Sit down now ! ■ Lady & Nan. We're seated. [Taking seats b^ind the.w'keels. Plu. Turn the wheel ! brr, brr, brr ! [Imitafing the noise of the machine. Lady & Nan. It will not turn ! • v Lio. With your thumb and yotir first finger Draw a thread and twist it round. Lady & Nan. But the stubborn wheel woii't move, sir. Ptu. Turn it ! Lady & Nan. It turns not. Lio. . Push then ! Lady. It moves not 1 Plu. Won't it? Can't you spin then? Lady & Nan. Never learnt it. Teach us I Plu. Be attentive then I Plu. ^ Lio. '(spinning.) When the foot the wheel *iirna lightly, Let the hand the thread entwine; Draw and twist it, neatly, tightly. Then 'twill be both strong and fine. Scene I.] MARTHA. 15 , / Lady. What a charming occupation, Thus to make the thread entwine; Gently guided, drawn and twisted, It becomes both strong and fine ; Ah ! ah, ah, ah, ah, ah,. ah, ah, ah, ah, ail», ah ! IÄO. & Flu. Have observ'd you? v Lady & Nan. Yes, we have. ** Lio. & Flu. Comprehended ? ■ Lady & Nan. . Yes, we have. [JfANCY turns Plunkett's spinning-wheel over and runs off , followed by Plunkett. Lady. Nancy — I mean Julia, stay! Oh, dear! she's left me here alone with — [she turns to follow her.) Lio. {stopping her.) Nay, Martha, you must not run away! Are you afraid ? Lady. Afraid! of you ! {looking at him.} 'No I DUETT. Lady. To his eye, mine kindly meeting, Evil intent is unknown, Yet my heart is straJigely beatii^g, Since I'm am left with him alone. Lio. Her clear eyes with looks entreating, Speak to me in thrills' unknown. And my heart is strangely beating. Since I am leA with her alone. Ah, how could I ever scold her. Ever speak in unkind tones I Might I but ray heart ur^fold her,! . Lady. (Whither, Nancy, bast thou fled? Ah, poor me, she tarrifes yet !) Lio. MarthafLetmethenconfess.it: Ever since thine angel face First appear'd before my vision — Lady. (Quite alaWnfrlgls his. gaze J) Lio. Martha! Martha! Lady, (He grows bolder !) Lio. See my heart is good and true. Lady. Yes, you are a kindly master, Much more kind than I deserve. Lio. You deserve ? . Lady. I'm but a good for nothing Little body, sir J Let me go ; your idle| servant Cannot earn the bread you give her ! . Lio. My heart would break should I send,th,ee a^ay I No — no work shall e'er^dismay you. But throughout the livelong day Sing you, to our work us cheering. Many a gay, melodious l?iy ! Sing a song me ! Lady. I'm too bashfuL Lio. Let it be a people's lay. Sent by Grod unto the poor. Lady. Ah, no ! Lio. {taking a nosegay from the lady's bosom.) I'll exchange this nosegay , For a song! Lady. ' Ah, sir, you jest! Lio. 'Tis my will I Lady. Your will ? Lio. Nay, I entreat you. ♦ Lady, Ah 1 your entreaties I withstand not. 16 MARTHA. [Act II. ROMANCE. Lady. 'Tis the last rose of summer, Left blooming alone ; All her lovely companions Are faded and gone ; No flower of her kindred, No rosebud is nigh To reflect back her blushes, Or give sigh for sigh ! . ril not leave thee, thou lone one, To pine on the stem; Since the lovely are sleeping, Go sleep thou with them. Thus kindly I scatter Thy leaves o'er the bed — Where thy mates of the garden ^Lie scentless and dead. Lio. Martha ! Lady. Master 1 Lio. My lip confesseth What hath liv'd within my heart Ever since your eye smil'd coyly To me on the Richmond mart. Martha ! i Lady. Let me ! Lio. From the moment When I beheld you — Lady. No further I Lio. . Martha I Lady. Oil, cease thee ! Lio. Martha ! Lady. I go ! Lio. Oh, stay thee ! Lady. I go — m Ida. Stay and hear me. Oh, accept in holy union Here my hand, oil, be my wife ! Lady. God what hear I ! Lio. See prostrate me — Lady. Fearful passion ! Lio. At thy feet I pray— Lady. (How can I elude him ? — ) Sir^ I ani not unfeeling. Yet I shall la:ugh to see you kneeling. Pardoi;i me ! ha, ha, ha, ha ! Lio. With our marriage at an ending Is air difference of birth ! Lady. ' Pray, excuse me, if offending, But this does increase my mirth ! 2jio. She's laughing at my sorrow, and at my deep distress; She scorns my soft approaches, my loving tenderness. To share my humble cottage, proudly the majd disdains ; In vain my eye is weeping, in vain my lip complains. Now happiness farewell, farewell, now happiness farewell. If naught to love can move her, heaven rernove from me this :Sp9lu-I Lest I must bid to happiness and peace a sad farewell 1 Lady, Ah, his eye of sorrow speaking, deeply penetrates my heart; Sad fate that love so pure and true must burn without reward. v His woeful looks invj|tß me to share his humble lot. "^v Oh ! heaV'if "^i-ötfeöt me kindly that he beguile, |>eguile me not. '^^"^ I feel my bosom yielding, I feel ray bo^jm yielding, Protect, protec^. me Grtd, that hie beguile nie not; ^ His eye of sorföW speaking^ deeply penetrates my heart, Sad fate that love so pure and true must go without reward. Scene I.] MARTHA. If lEnter I^ancy, pulled in hy Plunkett.] JPltt. Don't you try this game again, girl ! Whfere do you suppose she was? In the kitchen was the vixen Breaking bottles, glasses, dishes, And a good deal have I suffered, Till at last I caught the lass ! Nan, Let me go ! Don't make me mad, sir. Or some scratching you will seel Plu. {releasing her.) By the prophets ! she has spirit! I confess, that pleases me ! Nan. Martha, Martha! Plu. Pooh! What's wrong with you now? * Standing as if thunder-struck ! Get yourselves to bed, ye idlers I Off with you my saucy puck ! Plu, & Lio. Midnight 't sounds ! Lady & Nan. Midnight 't sounds ! lAo. (to Lady.) Cruel one, may dreams transport thee To a future rich and blest I Ah ! and to-morrow, gently yielding. Smile upon me! sweetly rest 1 /*lu. {to Nancy.) Sleep thee well', and may thy temper Sweeter in our service grow; Still your sauciness is rather To my liking — do you know? Lady & Nan. Yes, good night 1 such night as never We have lived to see before ; Were I' but away, I'd never Play the peasant any more. Plu. & Lio. Good night I Lady & Nan. Good night ! [Lady and Nancy retire into their chamber, Plunkett and Lionel exeunt hy the large door, locking it after them.'] [Lady Harriet and Nancy, coming out of their chamber again.} Lady. Nancy ! Nan. Lady! . Lady. What begin now? Nan. What advise you? Lady. You say first ! Nan. Dead of night, and no protector I Lady. And lock'd in, which is the worst. Nan. What a fatal day has prov'd this ! Lady. Fatal day, more fatal night! Nan. Still — these folks are not unpleasant, Lady. They are honest — Nan. (archly.) And polite. Lady. If the Queen should hear of it ! Nan. What rich stock for courtiers* wit! [A noise is heard from outside, near the.window to the nght. Lady. What a noise this ? What report? Nan. Steps — a voice — there's succor near 1 Tri. {from outside.) Cousin! cousin! Lady. Tristan ! Nan. 'Tis my lord ! Lady. He -vf jU scold — I well deserve it ! But he'll save us I ife MA R T H A. [Act II. ' [Tristan entermg through the window.'] Tri. . Yes! Here I am ! .mVL Cousin ! You-^in this vulgar habitation! Nan. Hush thee I You'll wake all earth With such loud talking ! Lady. Come, away ! Tri. Lest we should be heard and taken, I have left my carriage waiting At the corner. Nan. Let us fly then ! Lady, Nan. & Tri. Fly in haste we, softly treading, ^ Night's her cov'ring mantle spreading : >'. . Ere a birä herald's the day And we are off and far away.- {They depart through the window. Act the Thikd. scene the first. A forest. On the left a sjnall inn. Plunkett and Farmers sitting at a table covered with jugs and mugs. SONG AND CHOEUS. JPlu. I want to ask you, can you not tell me, What to our land the British strand, Gives life aind power ? say ! That is old porter, brown and stout. We may of it be pretty proud, It guides John Bull, where'er he be, Through fogs and mists through land and sea. Cho. Yes, hurra ! the hops and hurra the malt, They are life's flavor and life's salt, hurra! They are life's flavor and life's salt! hurra ! Plu. And that explaineth where'er it reigneth Is joy and mirth ! Ac ev'ry hearth Eesounds a joyous song ! Look at its goodly color "here ! Where else canflnd you such good beer? Bo brown and stout and healthy too ! The porter's heal:th I drink to you 1 Cho. Hurra the hops and hurra the malt. They are lifc'.s flavor and life's salt! hurral [Morns sound the chase. Hark! the merry horns resounding 1 JPlu. Yes, the Qu.cen she hiiuts to-day With her ladies, ligiit and gay. Through this forest, game abounding. Cho» To the chtisc invites their playing I Plu. Go then, while mine host I'm paying! {Exeunt Choriis to the right — Plunkett goes into tftßiißin. [Enter HiiiitresMs, afierwdrds N ANCTi] ■ Oho» Ladies we — with hunter's glee t; Are chnsing a game — Tra, la, la, la ! SößN&lO MARTHA. 19 Cunningly and stealthily. And deadly our aim. Ha, la, la, lee ! Our brave huntsmen ara the game We smartly pursue daily anew ! ■^'51^ \;, By out eyes they're hit and laid. With arrows fleet low at our feet. Now we awe them and subdue them, Now ■eoaK them and allure them. Now pursue them to the nets, Till in the snare the poor thing frets: v^ That's our sport aud our delight. Nan. Why my soul art thou heavy with grief And my spirit dejected and low? . 'Why with sighs, doth my bosom heave. This my bosom that sighs ne'er did know? Is itof love that thou whispere, my heart? Hast thou been gaiu'd by amor's art? Ah! Well may for love I sigh and pine. Ah 1 well may for love I sigh and pine j ^ Happy the heart which off iQve is the shrine. For love is life's bloom, life's radiant sun. [T^te ladies advance and repeat the chorus. Cho. Ladife» Tfre, «fcc. ; • ? Ncm. '.'h'.'- : : ; ; ?Hun tress fair Hastens where She is game detecting, Aiid her dart Wounds the heart That was unsuspecting. Restlessly Wanders she, Apd is never tired j, Takes good ain^, Till the game Is with lov6 inspired. Cupid like a rogue he is . Shot the dart, did not miss. [t. I From her dart — is the heart ''^ : .J , ; I Always sorely bleeding ; '"■ ' Then she heals — for she feels It is comfort needing. What a look — from him took Has a look restored ; Gone is pain — and again Mounts it where it soared. [Enter PLUNKBtT, at haeh.— Seeing the Ladies he stops.'] Plu. There seems to be good game afoot here ; I'll see if I can't catch one or two ! 3^0«. {looking around.) Where can the Countess be ? ßhe seeks solitude. ,l)yl ;J And seieins veiry unhappy, And has been so ever since — My good friend can you tell me — JPlu, What, Julia, in huntress' gear? i^Tan. Well, my friend. Pit«. . I am not your friend. . _ ^ ^ ' You wait \ I'll make you pay' For your headlong running away 1 .yon. . You are mad ! JPliU » Fibs are of no use ; Gome home with me ! 2fr MARTHA. [AoT III. 2^an. Ilelp! Assistance! Pitt, What wickedness ! 27dn. What impudence ! [The Ladies re-enier. Here's a game for you, my ladies! Let's see how he will like your spears ! \-All the Ladies surround Plunkett, threatening him. Cho, You have fallen into our hands, You will vainly attempt to fly; — Let him feel the keen points of our weapons; Let him prepare to die I Pltu Gently, gently— hold ! Jlold your hands — I already feel the points of their weapons 1 ...»y'A By St. George and Belzebub, Fair dames ground your arms ! [J2e rushes off hastily. Cho. Let him-feel the points of our lances; Let him die without delay 1 [ They rush after him in pursuit [Enter Lionel, pale and dejected.'] lAo, "I will detach thee From thy frail trembling stem, And place thee on ray heart; There shalt thou die, sweet flower !" Where am I? I feelihat I am near her ! . . She who has become the arbitress of my destiny I All brilliant now I see her, With her beautiful virginal smile, Which, for me, changed earth into Heaven ! SONG. Like a dream bright and fair. Chasing every thought of care, Those sweet hours pass'd with thee, Made the world all joy for me. But alas! thou art gone. And that dream of blisfe is o'er, Ah ! I hear now the tone of thy gentle voice no more j Oh ! return happy hours fraught with hope, With hope so bright! Come again, come again sunny days of pure delight, Of pure delight! ' Like a dream bright and fair. Chasing every thought of care. Those sweet hours pass'd with thee Made the world all joy for me. Fleeting vision clothed in brightness, Wherefore thus, so soon depart; O'er my pathway shed thy lightness, :Once again, and glad my heart ! Once again, and glad my heart, Yes, glad my heart. , [Enter Lady Harulet and Sir Tristan.] Tri. The Queen is resting yonder. Fair cousin, why have you left the august presence of her majesty ? Lady. Because I wish to be alone. " Tri. Alone! with me? •''^^- Lady. It matters not. With you, or without yoU; I am still aloiae-'- my heart is still oppressed with sadness. Leave me ! Tri. Why are you sad? Can I not spothe your grief? Lady. Don't plague me ! Don't notice me ! Scene L] MARTHA. «t Tri. But to leave you alone in this wild place — Lady. It is my will ! Go! Tri. I obey— most gentle cousin ! {aside.) Poor thing, she's evidently struggling with her love for me. {aloud) I won't be long away. {Exit Sir Tristan. ROMANCE. Lady. Here in deepest forest shadows, Under drooping whisp'ring boughs, May confess I my deep sorrows. Dream of love's encn anting vows. Oh my heart is mourning sadly 1 "Were but the belov'd one nigh 1 Now I left the crowd so gladly, '- To the silent woods to hie. Lio. {entering.) Ah! that voice! Lady. Heaven ! whom do I see ? Lio. A lady I— Lady^ "What! he here 1 Lio. Martha! Martha! Lady, {aside.) How shall I Escape this danger ? Lio. Ah ! thou hast returned I Thanks, kind Heaven ! Ah 1 'tis you— you who fled from me I — Lady, {aside.) "What a trial ! Lio. Before mine eyes beheld thee My heart recognized thee I Lady, Recognized me ! you are mistaken. Lio, No. Those features, those lovely features. Are graven on my heart ! It is thy voice, Martha, which I hear ; I am not the victim of an error. Lady. You are dreaming ! — Lio. If it be a dream, Oh ! let me not awake from it ! Ah ! I would still dream thus ; Disturb not so sweet a slumber.. Lady, Hence, away ! Lio. No, no : in my dream Let me take thy hand. And imprint a kiss upon it, To express the love I feel. [jBTe kisses her hand, Jjady. Ah! I can no longer tolerate - Sucli'^foss impertinence! ' •, Lio. Wherefore this pretence of ignorance? '.' Lady. Hence, peasant, and be silent! Lio. I a peasant L-r-I am your master j ;A Mildness is lost upon you ) — I have hitherto spoken to you with amenity,'. But now I command that you come with me I Lady. Help, Tristan ! [Oaüing, {Enter Sir Tristan afterwards followed I^alLJ Tri. {rushing on.) "What has alarmed you ? Lady. Help me ! aid me ! Tri. "Who dares to — Ido. My lord, this is my servant, ' And I have a right to take her hence. Tri. "Was there ever such brazen impudence? •It fairly makes me shudder. It is most unheard-of audacity ! This way— hither, sirs ! [CalHng his friend». 2B M A R T H Af [AoT XII Cho. (entering.) What sMdim'iiy '■ A peasant dare to insult you ! Let so scandalous an outrage Be pu-iii'shed' withotit delay. Ido. ■ gi^h aiuiA«*-»'. Ah! mayheavcii ^ ic'don "^®* For the grief and misery inflicted on him,i ," And j hay© teioken his iieart I A}$b^wlUltfihB▼0 4v_^^ gained .•,tV.ri01 • ' ^'^J^'-^' ' ' ;^ By rend^j,Wg:hai^:^|Uiappy? Let his present anguish tell ^ '^kl'^cy<^^''ömch he'loVed' | ?^, " " '' '"' 'r Tri. (aside.) She now sees the folly of her caprices; | She despised my counsels^. ' ' ' '. And now vainly attempts to repair, ^erjeipx|r. By her grief I am avenged ! Cho. Let u^. (juickly punish the imposter, \ This has alread 3' been endured too long I '^*' Hasten we bapk to the chaser . [Trumpets are heard. Scene I.] MARTHA. 2» Jao, And with her xnj hopes revive ! [Takes a ring from hlsßnger and gwes it to Plunksjtt. Take this ring which my father gave me, Thou knowest for what purpose ;— I will not believe myself utterly abandoned lUi'l .\v'. As long as this gage remains! ^'^.eil '.^'^' Cho. of Ladies, {entering.) v.* ; . From the summit of* the hill, And the neighboring valley. The trunipetß recall us to the chase. The sun. is already declining, But the bold hunter siill continues the pursuit. ■ ^ j- Cho. of Men. "We are on the track of the stag I ai^gß «eSkiJ •V 1. Pursue him, over the hill And through the vaUdy, ' In the wood and through, the ravine I , j;iu,oif4iL Wia^i^^äif.—ij!^ Hunters disperse. Act the Fourth. SCENE the first. InteHor of PlunketVs Farm-house^ as in Second ^c^.r-nPiiUNKETT «K»- c&i^ed alone. '^•^- Plu. Poor Lionel'!" hfe lii^Hs, he laments. He flies from his friend ; He is besidö himself W*th love. Accursed be the bötir' ' - When first we saw that girt, -I •'J.i-' When first jve brought bei- beneath our roof I - Soon will my Lionel die, If no aid Come frotii on hi^ ,: Fata4 unhappy the hoitr^ ■' When first his heart f<^lt love's power; -IT Weeping he wanders in grief. Naught to his pain brings relief; Mei«ciful God, hear my cry. Else must my Lionfel die I Merciful' God', oh, hear my ery, Let not with grie^ LioneVdie !• Say is this love's hidden fire That doth my bösl Mine earnest pray'r h'6T! scall iwilbM ! ii o^uun 1- hiißil h douB (.'^'^tmvj ASVw) tiO .CK. !/\ -VV-iH'i .wc. .Nlbni ■;.'.iq'ui .:.: rixlT .oK\ ■ d-)lA'U d'AiiW ff'.idW !'/r bnA HU isoa 24 MARTHA. [Act IV. {Enter Harriet otjc? Nancy.) Nan. My friend! Plu. Here are both tlie witches ! Lady. Plunkett — my faitliful friend— Nancy will disclose to you the plan we have formed — I will yet save Lionel ! Plu. May heaven assist you, my Lady. Lady. Leave me alone for a few moments — I wall try and allure him hither by that strain he knows so well ! Perchance my prayers may dispel the clouds upon his brain — and restore him to peace and happi- ness again. [Exit Plunkett and Nancy. SONG. April returns, crown'd With verdure and with flowers! More bright appears the day, — More brilliantly shines the sun! , The earth is clothed with green; The flowers sit smiling on their stems, And the nightingale pours forth to Heayen Her sweet song of love. {Enter Lionel.) Lio. Heaven ! 'tis her voice ! Lady, Lionel ! Lio. Ah! You wish that I should die, traitress ! Iniquitous syren, cease that song. Which brings me naught but misery and death. {throwing away flowers.) Behold these flowers Which thou gavest me, crushed and withered I Lady. Ah ! hear me, hear me ! Lio. I know too well Thy seductive and enchanting words, They fascinate and charm. But they prove mortal to whoever listens to them. ,, .^ liOdy. Mercy, Lionel ! Jjio. Mercy for thee ! Never ! To insult and shame thou hast added contempt. Lady, Let the remorse I feel. Let these tears stay thy reproache^l I have wrought a change in thy destiny: I myself presented to the Queen the ring Which thy dying father bestowed on thee. Thou art the son of Count Derby, Who was unjustly banished from this country I Lio. Oh! my father! Lady. And the Queen would make reparation to thee. For the unjust exile of thy parent. Thou art Count Derby, and on thy brow Mayst place the coronet of a peer of England ! Lio. I — Count Derby ! Lady. les, aiid this hand. Which restores thy heritage, is now ofiered to thee, In pledge and token of unceasing love ! Xio. ' This hand, which presented the cup of anguish — Which could wound even while car«fl8ing — Which inflicted outrage on me, Which brought me dishonor, And which has prepared for me a tomb, — Dost thou dare to offer it? {xoith energy.) Such a hand — I refuse it 1 BV?NB I.] xMABTHA. M Lady. . Heavenly powers ! liio. With mortal hatred ! ' This woman was my bright star of love; For her I would have given my life; • She has robbed me of every joy on earth, and now She is but the baneful star of my unhappiness ! . Lady. Ah! read my heart — I am repentant; Let us be united ! Let my love for thee plead my forgiveness ! Thou, oh Lionel, canst open Heaven to my view I Ah I yield, and have pity on my anguish 1 Lio. Hence, and hide thee from my fury ! Lady. In mercy, give me back thy love ! Lio. Eternal hatred reigns in my heart ! [Exit Lionbl. {Enter Nancy and Plunkett.] Nan. {running up to Lady H.) Take courage, dear lady ! Plu. {looking after Lionel.) He is running off like a madman I Phew ! Here's a strange change in your characters— first he would and you wouldn't, now you will and he won't! Lady, {rising with a resolute air.) Once again, my friends, lend me your assistance. No means must reiaain untried to win him back. We must now try our other scheme. My heart tells me we must succeed. The God of Love himself must battle on my side ! Come, Nancy, I'm impatient to begin the trial! [Exit Ladt. Harrdet. Nan