D ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN PRODUCTION NOTE University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library Brittle Books Project, 2015.COPYRIGHT NOTIFICATION In Public Domain. Published prior to 1923. This digital copy was made from the printed version held by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It was made in compliance with copyright law. Prepared for the Brittle Books Project, Main Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by Northern Micrographics Brookhaven Bindery La Crosse, Wisconsin 2015§LapI ^nglis| i HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE. I Lessee Mr. E. T. Smith. QUEEN TOPAZE. ONE SHILLING. [Cogiirigijt J PUBLISHED AND SOLD BY CHAPPELL AND CO., 50, NEW BOND STREET AND THE PRINCIPAL BOOKSELLERS AND MUSIC SELLERS. SAYOY PRINTING COMPANYj SAYOY STREET, STRAND.—J. LAST, MANAGER.JUST PUBLISHED. THE If sie FROM VICTOR MASSE'S POPULAR OPERA, QUEEN TOPAZE, %$ pxrformtfr at Jjjer IHajjestg's Statte. VOCAL. s. a. "'I'm a Captain, for adventures roving," sung by Mr. SWIFT 2 6 " Good Cavalier," sung by Mr. SWIFT ..................................2 0 " The Bee Song/' sung by Mdlle. PAREPA .........................2 0 " The Token," DUET—sung by Mdlle. PAREPA and Mr. SWIFT 3 0 " I ne'er dream'd that this tender token," (Extract of the Duet). Sung by Mdlle. PAREPA ....................................................2 0 "The Laughing Song," sung by Mdlle. PAREPA............................2 0 "The Carnival of Venice," sung by Mdlle. PAREPA—............3 Q " Beauty and Youth are blooming/' canzonet—(Extract of tlie above). Sung by Mdlle. PAREPA................................................2 0 44 Such an outrage," sung by Mr. SANTLEY....................................2 6 " Light as falling snow," sung by Mr. SWIFT.......................2 0 " Happy hours, come before me," sung by Mdlle. PAREPA— 2 0 INSTRUMENTAL. Overture ....................................................................................................3 0 The Favourite Airs, in Two Books, by FRANZ NAYA .... each 4 0 )) » One Book „ „ ............5 0 " The Carnival of Venice," by w. kuhe .................. Fantasia, by G. a. osborne................................ Fantasia on the Bee Song, by w. KRUGER................................3 6 Fantasia „ by A. croisez........................3 0 Fantasia „ by Le carpentier........................3 0 "The Bee Song," by brinley richards....................................3 0 44 Light as falling snow," by brinley richards....................3 0 Polka Mazurka, by adrien talexy-solo ............................3 0 „ duet ............................3 6 Set Of Quadrilles, by CHARLES D'ALBERT, as SOLOS and DUETS ............................................each 4 0 Polka, by charles d'albert ..............................3 0 Set Of Waltzes, by MUSARD—SOLOS and DUETS........each 4 0 The Favourite Airs—arranged for Violin, Flute, or Cornet-^- Pistons..............................................each 1QUEEN TOPAZE: %ti ©pOT Cmrarjttt, iit %\xtt THE PROSE DIALOGUE BY JOHN OXENFOKD. THB VEESES ADAPTED TO THE VOCAL SCOBE BY GEORGE LINLEY. THE MUSIC BY -VICTOR MASSE. FIRST REPRESENTED AT HER MAJESTY'S THEATRE, (LESSEE - - - MR. E. T. SMITH,) WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26 1860. [Cflpgrigfct.] PUBLISHED AND SOLD BT CHAPPELL AND CO., 50, NEW BOND STREET; AND THE PRINCIPAL BOOKSELLERS AND MUSICSELLEES. ONE SHILLING.DRAMATIS PERS0NJ3. Raphael . . (a Captain) . . Annibal Barbiano (a rich Venetian) Francatrippa } Fritellino } (Gipsies) . Mr. SWIFT. . Mr. SANTLEY. ( Mr. PATEY. (Mr. TERROTT. ("Young Venetian Nobles) Zeno Loredano Manfred Bembo Topaze . . . (a Gipsy) Countess Filomela.......Mdlle. ALESSANDRI, Hostess of an Inn ....... Miss HEMMINGr. Mr. BEALE. Mr. E. ST. ALBYN. Mr. BAKER. L Mr. THOMPSON. Mdlle. PAREPA. Nobles, Ladies, Male and Female Gipsies. The scene is laid at Venice, 1512.ACT I. SCENE. A small Square. To the left, leading to ct Bridge. At the back, across a canal, a practicable Bridge. At the r. h. of mean appearance ; another, of a higher character, stands opposite, l. h. INTEODU CTION. Ensemble. All! joyous ball! all!—what delight! Night's happy reign ia ended; Yet, oft will mem'ry bring to sight, Dreams of a fete so splendid. Rest one and all doth now invite, For, lo ! the sun's ascended. Ah! joyous ball!—ah! what delight! Alas! all has an end, So fades all that is bright. Bem. I three times with her have been dancing. Lor. She was, truly, queen of the ball. Grit. In charms, she exceeded them all. Man. I ne'er beheld form so enchanting, Eyes so entrancing. Chor. Ah! joyous ball!—ah ! what delight I &c., &c., &c. Bem. Tis me she likes and favors. Grit. Tis me I Lor. 'lis me! Man. 'Tis me!% QUEEN TOPAZE. Ann J. Becalm! subdue your anger; Her fancy I shall be. Bem. She likes me! All. She likes me! Anni. Nay, nay, good sirs, pray do not quarrel, After such a gladsome revel; Let us not draw our swords to fight, When but one word can make all right. Not far from this resides, In a poor habitation, [points to Inn, K. II. oung, sooth-saying gipsy— here,is the house, just by; She will foretell our destination. Our fortunes we will try. All. Our fortunes we will try, Anni. Halloo ! [knocks at the Inn door, r. it. AIL Halloo! Hostess. What noise do I hear ? [looJcs out of window, K. H. What want ye, sirs, here ? Anni. Good day, my honest hostess! Ope your door. All. Ope your door. Anni. Speed you; be quick, old sorceress! Ope your door! All. Ope your door! Hostess.Who are you? I implore. All. We are six cavaliers, Who for the same fair lady, With love's fond passion burn. It would delight our ears, To know which one among us The lady fair prefers; Whose love she can return. And, for this, we thus venture To ask, now, to enter. Anni. To the gipsy us guide, To be rid of this anguish; No more to sigh, nor languish ; She with you doth reside ? AIL Ope your door.QUEEN TOBAZE. 3 Hostess. Good sirs! she is gone out. , i Axni. She is gone out? 'tis provoking! In that case we shall still be in doubt. Ensemble. It appears thro'the night She goes forth, in secret creeping, While the drowsy world is sleeping, At the hour she should rest, Wanders then, like some sprite. Axxi. I think, our senses The hostess has tried to deceive; We'll go in, and our fears relieve. AIL Unbar! unlock! [knocking at the cloor and shutters, R. H. Or dread our knock. Anger will fire us, If you so tire us; Linger no more, Open the door. Answer she's scorning, We give you warning: Rrlock! crash! bang! Thump and knock, 'Till she the door unlock. Enter Eaphael from Hotel, L. H. Kaph. In mercy's name, When will this noisy masking end ? Perhaps you think'tis charming, One's hearing thus to rend, With tumult so alarming? Anni. Who is this gentleman severe ? Raph. What, sirs ! pray what do you want here ? All. We are six cavaliers, &c., &c., &c. Rapii. You are jesting, or tipsy ? Anni. Not at all—it is true; We came hither, Our fortunes to learn from a gipsy. B 24 Eaph. If you will but consent, I can read them for you; I i^ellifenow how, I do assuie you. Anni. Look on my hand ! Eaph. 'Tis plain as words can say, That, if you go not peaceably upon your way, You will meet with some disaster, From some one whom well I know; And the blood that now runs slow, May, by a rapier, soon run faster. Anni. I am not very curious, I am told, But really should like that t@ behold. All. Have you rank and position ? Tell us, too, your name and condition! Eaph. What I am? [to k. of c. Air. I'm a captain, for adventures roving, If fortune be frowning, or loving, Oh ! what care I ? ■ Fate I defy. I'm a captain, for adventures roving, And anxious my courage to be proving; I have not a good reputation, Don't take my word I At the very first altercation, I draw my sword. He who blusters, or talketh loudly, Soon I make dumb; Those who carry their heads too proudly, Shortly succumb. I'm a captain for adventures roving,&c., &c., &c. Anni. ,Your-:inirth doth:me delight, . And, in truth, I commend you; So draw, and let us fight. On guard! defend you ! Eaph, Defend you ! [they exchange passes. Eaphael wounds Annibal in the hand.QOTtBH T0PA2E, Axni. 'Tis a sight wound! * • My friends, he knows soi^ery^ arfy For the stars he has read* Sir, jour hand J With aH My heart! Ensemble. Amusing adventure! Few could understand; We make an acquaintance With sword in hand; They make an acquaintance Weapon in hand. You please me much; Let this our rage disarm. I did not wish To do you any harm. Ensemble, - Amusing adventure, <&c., &c., &c. Grit. By Saint Mark, captain, you have done our friend Signor Annibal a piece of good service. We knew he was the richest man in Venice—he is now proved to be the most valiant. [all laugh, Anni. Nay, comrades, you don't know what I am yet. Beware of me as a rival. We all, unfortunately, love the same woman—the Countess Filomela. You will all sigh in despair—I shall marry her. Raph. It is lucky for me that the object of my adoration lives far from Venice. Anni. Far from Venice I Why, observing how gallantly you guarded the entrance to the hostelry, I fancied that your heart was firmly secured in this neighbourhood. Kaph. No, no, signor; gipsies are a class of the community I particularly avoid. Between them and me there has been a slight misunderstanding* Anni. How was that ? Raph. AIL ANNI. Raph.6 QUEEN TOPAZE. Raph. While I was in the service of the Duke of Milan, my company once destroyed a whole gang of them, with the exception of a few women, and an old man, clasped round the neck by a young girl, who was piteously screaming. To me, the screams of a woman are always irresistible ; so, I stopped the slaughter. Grit. Well? Eaph. Two years afterwards I happened to be at Yicenza, and there, issuing from the church, per- ceived a lady whose charms made the deepest im- pression upon my hearts I am vain enough to add, that I seemed to create a sensation, and, during my residence at Yicenza, had clandestine interviews with the fair Diana. Anni. But the gipsies ? Raph. Whenever I went to see her, I was sure to meet, in some dark corner, two or three ill-looking fellows, who were evidently watching me with no friendly intentions, and equally certain to find a poor beggar-girl. Such a matter of course was it, to meet first the girl, then the ruffians, that, when I found I always escaped unhurt, I could not help indulging in the fancy, that the poor creature was a sort of guardian angel placed on purpose to shield me from harm. After a while, I received orders to quit Yicenza, and obeyed, though with an aching heart. Anni. Doubtless. Raph. Well, when I had reached the foot of the mountains, I found that, though I was torn from the lovely Diana, I had neither lost my persecuting demons nor my guardian angel. Here, indeed, my story becomes really curious. Anni. Goon—goon. I love everything wonderful. Well suppose you arrived at the foot of the mountains. Raph. Precisely. Becit. and Air. R aph. Riding where trees my pathway shaded, O'er a road narrow and drear, Suddenly my horse gave signs That some danger was near.QUEEN TOPAZE. Awhile I stood, and mutely listened; When, lo! around me there glisten'd , A host of carbines, directed against me. I confess I was frighten'd, Their muzzles bright to see. Yes, I thought myself lost, When, just then, I espied My faithful, kind mendicant near me, Tranquilly smiling, as if to cheei me, Blithely singing this strain, As she walk'd by my side: Air, il Fear not! tho' danger rise before thee* 1 Onward, good cavalier!»still wend; Our blest Madonna watches o'er thee— She will thy life always defend. Tho' sharp thorns on the way beset thee. Courage and zeal thy steps attend ; Thy guardian saint will not forget thee— She will thee always befriend." Their arms, by enchantment, Quick vanish'd away; But how so accomplish'd Twere puzzling to say. Nought me further delay'd; Up the mountain I stray'd, Where we might danger despise; And my faithful companion A tender adieu to me said, Then, soon was lost to mine eyes. Tho'no longer me near, Yet her voice, sweet and clear, 'Till fading fast away, Still repeated this lay:QPSEN TOPASS, " Forward! let faith and hope inspire thee, Soon will thy pilgrimage be past; Tho' toil and trouble sore may , tire thee— Sweet will be thy, repose at last Thy good angel will still direct thee, Courage and zeal thy steps attend; Our blest Madonna will protect thee— She will thy life always defend/' Grit. A strange adventure, indeed, captain! Anni. Ah, friends are useful everywhere; I trust, on that account, we may become better acquainted. So, if you remain at Venice— Kaph. Nay, I leave within an hour. Annl The better reason for cementing our friend- ship with a genial glass of Cyprus. What, ho!—wine, there! All. Wine—wine! [Servants bring down a table laid out with bottles and glasses. The gentlemen take their places, l. of c. Morceau d'Ensemble. Raph. "] Fill the wine-cup glowing, Aarcrc. (Fill to overflowing; and I Let our new-born friendship Friends J Constant prove thro' life. Fast the hours are fleeting; Let this happy meeting Be the birth of pleasure. Put an end to strife ; After gloom and sorrow Beams a glorious morrow. Now, the sky is cloudless, Late with tempests rife. Fill the wine-cup glowing, <£e., &c., &c. Awn. We will drink, noble captain, To love's tender rewaM.QjmmTomm* From all £boik ^ perilf May kind heav'n you still guard. After gloom and sorrow, &e., &e., &c. Enter by the Brichfe,. b.' Francatrippa ck& Fritellino, with Topaze, as mendicants, down r. of c. They approach the table. Enseinble resumed. Good, kind, charitable Christians! We are poor and sore distress'd: May your hearts to us be open, Aid three wanderers opprest. Some mercy show, Your alms bestow. ^TovAZE advances to c. Song. "Top. Like the roving, wandering bee, Who, as he flies, culls from the rose, So the Bohemian, gay and free, Thro' ev'ry land light-hearted goes. When, 'neath some tree, Tir'd she reposes, Heav'n protection o'er her throws : Gaily, among the roses, Eoam thou, wild bee! Rests she oft, and soars by turns, Still heedless, as she takes her flight, if, on flow'rs or angry thorns She's doom'd to stay the live-long night; With morn, her wings Then she uncloses, Sporting 'mid the sunshine bright: Gaily, among the roses, Roam thou, "tirild bee! Kaph. AIL Top. y Frit &> Franc. )\ 10 QUEEN TOPAZE. Anni. Will these songs of mirth and sadness They distract me, ev'n to madness. Man. Heav'n be prais'd, thesong is done. Grit. She sings well, and is pretty. Raph. Ha! yes, I well her know; It is she whom I named to you, We sought her anxiously here to-day. Grit. Tut! you're joking! Raph. (approaches Topaze, l. of c.) It is a friend who- now draws near to thee. My gentle child! dost thou remember me ? My heartfelt thanks are but an offering poor and slender: 'Tis not with gold my gratitude I render. Ah! I ne'er can repay thy protection to me. Take this! Top. Thanks, captain ! Fate protect you t Raph. You remember me ? Top. Ah ! yes, surely; How can I you forget ? Dear scenes, long fled, haunt me yet. Raph. (aside) What's here intended ? Top. (to the Gipsies.) See you, around his neck, That bright locket suspended ? Before an hour hath past, you must find out some way To place it in my hands. Never end, when once begun ? Not long ago. Anni. What! the singer? Raph. 'Tis she, truly. Anni. Say you so ? How provoking! Gipsies y Frit.&> But—• Franc.) Top. I co I command! Frit. & Franc. } We obeyQJJWm TOPAZ®. I Fill the wine-cxip glowing, ( &c., &c., &c. Eaph. and Friends. j Top. & 1 Good, kind, charitable Cliristians, Gipsies. ) &c., &c., &c. [Raphael, after taking leave of Ms friends r exits l.h. The other gentlemen exeunt by bridge. Franc atripp a and Fritellino folloiv Baphael. Topaze, left alone ivith Annibal, goes up cornier r. ii. Anni. A word with you, my good girl. If the cap- tain speak truly, you have a singular talent for assisting people on their road. Top. Explain yourself. Anni. My road is an old-fashioned highway called Love, and the point I would reach is termed Marriage. Top. A very dangerous path. Anni. Therefore, a little friendly aid is requisite. Now, if you could prepare a charm that would secure me the affections of the beloved object— Top. I could do it easily; but I must first have— Ama. Money. Here is my purse. Top. Thanks; but I must also have some token belonging to the lady. Anni. You shall have that, too. I will take care that her gondola passes this way. Wait for me yonder,, near the bridge, and I will place what you require in your hands. Top. (looJcing in the direction of Raphael.) At last I Enter, hurriedly, the two Gipsies, F ranc atripp a and Fritellino, from l. h. Top. Agreed. [goes towards bridge. [Exit Annibal, r. Terzetto. Franc. On our track. Frit. Lo! he comes-12 To?. What, already come back ? Franc. He is near. Frit. He is here. Top. Tell me, what do ycm fear? Franc. What folly ! to risk one's position.; Frit. 'Tis hurrying on to perdition. Franc. If he should but hanils on us lay. Frit. We dear for this bauble shall pay. Franc. The judge may to flogging consign us. Frit. Or else in a dungeon confine us. Franc. And for what ?—a poor, worthless thing. Frit. A ducatoon scarce 'twould bring. "Top. Have you obey'd what I desir'd ? Have you secur'd what I requir'd? Franc. It is here. Frit. It is here. Top. What! already 'tis here ? Franc, to Frit. On all sides look about: If you see him, cry out I Top. Tell me, what do you fear? J™} 'Tis secure—it is here. [Frit, goes up and looks to l. h. Franc, gives Topaze the locket. She mosses to l., looking at it Top. At last the truth I'll learn. Heavens! 'tis a beauteous lady. Fran. What grieves her so ? Her smiles depart. Top. He another loves.—-O ! sad heart! Thou wilt throb with pleasure no more; Thy fond dream of hope is o'er: Thou wilt break, poor heart. Fran. O ! terror, I fear she is fainting. Frit. (advances to Top., who comes down to t.) It is not a time to swoon or sigh, But the hour for all here to fly. Fran, (to Topaze.) Bouse you, I pray. Frit. Fly, let's away. Top. Fly! and for why ?ommTmM®> m Fran. qa om Frit. X»o! he^omeg. &C.T, &£., &c. [Francatrippa and Fritellino run offr over bridge, as Raphael enters, l.h. Raph. The rascals have escaped me ; but I should know them again, all the world over. They were with you. Who were they? Top. They are not worthy of your vengeance* Though, doubtless, you are offended at the loss of an object dearer perhaps than life itself. Duet—The Token. Top. I ne'er dream'd that, this tender token, For you, alas! possess'd a fadeless, priceless charm; Worn next a heart so kind and warm, Ev'ry sweet look with words hath spoken. Ah! each feature you fondly view, On which you gaze with purest pleasure; The resemblance you so treasure I you restore, while now my lips pronounce adieu. That ^ir face I you restore, While now my lips pronounce adieu. Contented be. Farewell ! farewell! [going, L< Raph. To it possess, my joy no one can tell. (detains Topaze) Whither go ? Top. Where fate leads, I must go! Rapb. No, you shall not from me thus depart. , Top. 'Tis decreed, I must fly. Raph. In tears, ah! why ? Top. Heed not mine anguish. Raph. Oh, reply. Speak truth, as Heaven's above you. Top. Alas! 'tis because I love you. Raph. Can it be ? Top. Be not amaz'd to hear me this avow, For, in fj&»kness, our tribe's above you;H QOTEN T0RAI5E, Wlien once we feel love's tender flame, Without blushing, the truth we name, Without disguise the passion owning, And say, simply say, il l love you"! Raph. Now the plot unravels, • Ne'er in all my travels Have I heard from woman's lips, Such candour rare. Damsel most mysterious! Is she really serious ? Is her love a phantom, Or a tempting snare ? Top. Unavailing's all my boldness, Now that mine he ne'er can be; Hide my sorrow from his coldness, Since his love is not for me. [exit Topaze to Inn, r. h. Raphael is about to follow her, but is checked by Annibal, who enters over bridge. Anni. Still at Venice, captain. How is this? Has the wind chang'd ? Raph. Well, I must confess— Anni. Confess nothing—I can guess all. There is the citadel to which you would lay siege, [points to Inn, 11. h. Raph. Allow me to pass. [crosses to it. h. Anni. Oh I pass on, in the name of Cupid; but recollect you have a gipsy to deal with, and catching a gipsy may be like catching a Tartar. Raph. Never fear for me; mine is a charm'd existence. [exit into Inn, r. h. Sound of music heard, during the following morceau, which is sung whilst Annibal ascends the. bridge. A gondola comes in with Filomela, Manfred, and the other young nobles. Barcarole—(behind the scenes, r. h.) Chor. All around us fleetly passes, All must join the fading throng; Be it treasur'd e'er so sweetly, Pleasure or mirth, love or song.QUEEN TOPAZE. 15 FiL; All mthers on life's cold journey, All speeds thro'death's valley thorny ; Fruits follow after the flow'rs, Age comes when youth's reign is over; Grief when wisdom we discover! Sunshine succeeds to show'rs. Chor. All around us fleetly passes, &c., &e., &c. [during the refrain of chorus, a gondola is seen approaching the shore, in which Filomela, Gritti, are discovered. Annibal assists the Countess Filomela to land. Fil. This is very strange conduct, Signor Annibal: you will not be of our party, and yet you make my boatmen bring me to one of the dismallest corners of Venice. Do you wish the world to think that I have come here for the express purpose of seeing you ? Anni. Nay, I am too unfortunate a lover for the world to think anything of the kind, (aside) How shall I get something for the gipsy. Fil. Oh, I see; you are vexed that your valour is not rewarded by an embroidered scarf from my fair hands. Anni. (aside) What a lucky remark !—Nay, I aspire not to a scarf, but if a humble knot of ribbon- Fil. Take one, by all means (detaches one from dress, and gives it). I rejoice that your good-humour is so cheaply purchased. ' \_goes up. Top. re-appears, r. h. Anni. (aside) It's all right. Fair countess, I'm overwhelm'd with gratitude., (aside) And there's the gipsy. Let me see the rival who can eclipse me now. Here, here. [gives ribbon to Tofaze.—At this moment Raphael enters from wing, r. Topaze screams at perceiving Filomela, who utters a ery of suspicion at beholding Raphael. Anni. Ha! captain, is it you? [crosses to him, r., talks apart with him, and laughs. Top. (aside) The original of theporfcrait. [goes up. Fil. (aside, putting on mask) How unfortunatef He thinks me at Yicenza.—Signor Annibal? Anni. At your service. [crosses.,to her9.t, Fil. (whispers) You know that gentleman? Am Intimately. I was joking him on his absurd passion for yonder gipsy. Fil. Indeed! how exceedingly droll. Astni. Immensely ridiculous. Why, I would under- take to win the heart of his inamorata in a couple of hours. Fil. Make it three, and I'll wager you fail. Anni. Eh? Fil. Ha, ha!—you hesitate. Anni. No, no! the challenge is accepted. [advances toivards Toi*., who stands apart, up c, Raph. (aside) If I could only speak to her alone. Top. (aside) Why did she come to Venice ? Anni. (whispers to Topaze.) Fair sorceress, will yoti wait here for me? I wish to speak to you in secret. Top. (aside) Ah, I shall learn the truth from him. Yes, you may rely upon me. [Anni. rejoins Fil., who is surrounded by the young nobles, l. h. Fil. Well? (steps apart.) Anni. I have made an appointment already. Ha! ha! ha! Fil. Oh, Signor Annibal, what a dangerous man you are! You win hearts by magic. [exit l. h., following the young nobles, cmd continuing to hide her face from Raphael. Top. Ah! she departs. Will he foilow her ? No, no-r-he approaches me. Raph. I was waiting till I could speak to you alone. (takes hand.) How your hand trembles. Top. With happiness, perhaps. Raph. You love me, then (she withdraws her hand). Why, you were not afraid to confess it just now. Top. I have reflected since then. That portrait— p^jjiaps the lady loved you very much.QUEEN TOPAZE. 17 Raph. She said she did, at any rate. Top. And you love her still?—no, no—do not answer that question. Rap. I do not think that I can easily. I have just heard an avowal from your lips, and should like to hear it again. Top. But evening approaches—it grows dark. [crosses to l. h. Raph. You will leave me ? Top. Till to-morrow. [exit into Inn, u. h. ; as she goes he kisses her hand. At about the same moment a note is given to him by a man who has been watching from l. v. e., and who now holds a lantern. Raph. A letter! perhaps some mistake. Humph! Signed Annibal Barbiano " If the gallant Captain does not mind losing a few moments on the Piazza San Carlo, he may find his trouble rewarded." (The lantern is extinguished, the man goes off.) Odd enough. Enter Annibal, wrapped in cloak, l. u. e. Raph. Can that be Annibal himself? (stage has be- come dark—Raphael stands apart. Annibal knocks at door of Inn, l. h. What can he be doing? Top. (at window) Signor Annibal is that you ? Anni. Yes. . Top. Alone? Anni. , Yes. Top. Then I mil come down. ' [disappears. Raph. (aside) Her voice, certainly. Anni. Upon my word, the countess has put me in a very strange position, by making me write that note to the captain. Ah! the door opens. Enter Topaze, r. h. Raph. Herself! Top. Oh, I have been expecting you with so much impatience. Anni. Indeed!—perhaps you will take my arm. Top. Why?18 QUEEN TOPAZE. Anni. We shall feel more like friends-—which will answer my—hem!—will be very agreeable. (Topaze takes his arm—-they walk up and down the stage, talking—Raphael catches a few words, disappearing as they approach him, and reappearing as they pass on.) The impatience with which you expected me ought to flatter my vanity. Raph. {aside) What does he mean by that ? She takes his arm, too. Top.. I do not understand you. [ withdraws her arm, Anni. (aside) The deuce! I was more flattered than I ought to be. Anni. At all events, you wished very particularly to speak with me. [offers his arm. Top. Oh, yes. (takes it—Raphael stamps with anger) I want to know who the lady is with whom you were talking this evening. Do you love her—does she love j°u? Anni. The poor thing is growing jealous. Top. (suddenly perceiving Raphael) Ah ! [a gondola comes on from rt h., in which Fil. stands, masked, watching the group. Anni. Bless my heart! here is my dear friend the captain. [Raphael, casting a look of contempt at Topaze, hurries off, l. h. Top. 'Twas he ! 'twas he! Anni. Now, lovely sorceress! you perceive why I washed you to take my arm. [exit, laughing, l. A loud laugh from Fil. is heard in the gondola, which glides off', k. Top. A snare, a snare! Ah! vengeance—vengeance! [Topaze whistles. FINALE TO ACT FIRST. Enter Gipsies, some with lighted torches, from r. and l. Frit. 1 What has occurr'd ? What's your desire ? Fran. I We haste to know what you require ? and rWe come all, Gipsies, j At your call,QUEEN TOPAZE- 19 Willing slaves, Friends are we, True unto you we'll be, True well be. What lias occurred ? &c., &c., &c. Top. I wish for a dress most enchanting, And rare jewels all else supplanting: - At friend Annibal's to-night, I'll appear rob'd with splendour most bright. Chor. At his house appear to-night ? Dress'd with a splendour so bright ? Top. Quick, answer all! Will you aid me, That, at this ball, I there may be ? Chor. Ready are we! Top. I am queen of the gipsies; On my brow a crown is gleaming. Now of vengeance I am dreaming; Soon on those who did offend Shall my anger descend. Peaceful when fair words are spoken, Hostile when loveVties are broken: None the Gipsy Queen withstand, None disobey my command. I am queen of the gipsies, &c., &c., &c. Chor. Topaze! each one's your slave; For you death we would brave. Speak! quickly your project show, Top. Await—you soon will know. Be then discreet, Soon we shall meet. Chor. All that you say, We will obey. Top. I am queen of the gipsies, &c., &c., &c. end of the first act.ACT II. SCENE. A magnificent hall, surrounded by a gallery, which is ap - proached by a large staircase, and is occupied by guests; servants are carrying about refreshments, and guests in splendid dresses are dispersed all over stage. As the curtain rises, a dance. Chorus and Ballet discovered. Manfred, Gritti, and the other young nobles come- forward. Grit. Really, an entertainment worthy of an emperor; and, when we consider that our friend Annibal is the son of a man who made all his money by pilfering, it is perfectly astounding. Doubtless he in- tends to put himself at the head of a political party. (all laugh.) Zeno. What an idea ! Grit.. It's not mine, at any rate ; I heard it a minute ago from a pair of lovely lips, that seemed perfectly in earnest. Zeno. So, you are smitten by this new beauty that takes us all by surprise. Well, I own a little weakness myself. But what an odd-looking fellow she has for her companion. [Fran, and Frit,, dressed as 'nobles, appear listening, L. Grit. Yes—he's a Roman prince, it appears—QUEEN TOPAZE. 21 though I believe far more princely-looking fellows than lie are hung by tlie score every week. [Frit, laughs; Franc, nudges him to be silent Zeno. Ay, and lie lias a friend exactly like Himself. Egad! what appetites they have got. They have eaten and drunk enough for twenty. [Frit, and Franc, drink from the goblets, which they have been holding in their hands. Grit. There is something about the lady too that I do not quite understand. She bears the illustrious name of Salviati, but I always understood that the last -of the Salviatis was carried, off by a gang of gipsies. [A t these words Franc, takes a draught the wrong way, and coughs violently. Frit. nudges him. Grit. Heyday!—the Roman prince is choking. [They all retire and watch, as Anni. enters with Fil. and Top. superbly dressed, from gallery, L. down. Anni. You will forgive me, ladies, if I should draw you awhile from the dance, to show you the wonders of my palace. Look—that marble is Parian—this mosaic is from Florence. Fil. (ciside) What an ostentatious creature it ; is I Top. It surprises me, that one life was sufficient for the accumulation of all this wealth. Anni. Oh, signora, my father managed the finances of Venice for twenty years. Top. Oh, that will account for everything. Man., &c. {comingforward) Ha! ha! ha! Top. But how is it, with all, this wealth, you have not thought of securing that greatest of treasures, a wife ? Grit. Nay, at this moment He Has an eye (like most of us) to a splendid marriage. Top. Like most of you ? At any rate, not Hke Signor Bembo, who is married already. Bem. Eh ? {r-eiires).QOT1K fOMMS, And, least of all, like Signor Zeno, who, being a Knight of Malta, has taken a vow of eternal celibacy. Zeno. By Jove, she knows everything, (retires). Ak$1. Capital! Fil. I perceive, Signor Annibal, there is as milch freedom at your balls as at a masquerade. Masks would be superfluous here. Top. A mask is the coward's armour. Fil. Well said. You are of Ferrara, and Ferrara was always noted for its valour. Top, As Vicenza for its constancy. Fil. (aside) What does she mean by that ? AnkI Ah! that puts me in mind—my best of friends (whispers to Fil.)—I mean the captain lost his heart at Ticeⅈ' Top. By-the-bye, is there not a church at Vicenzar famous for assignations ? Ann! Of course—San Francisco. Top. Exactly—-and there is a certain secluded street. AnHL To be sure-^-the Strada di Padua. Top. Yes, yes—I knew it about a year ago. Fil. Excuse me, but I think we are called by the orchestra, (whispers Top.) I must speak with you shortly—here. Top: When you please, signora. FiL. Now, Signor Annibal. Anni. I am, as ever, your most devoted slave. [exeunt Anni. and Fil, [all retire but Topaze. Fritellino and Francatiiippa approach her, l. Top. Well, what of the captain ? Fran. Caught! Top. The message ? Frit. Delivered. Top. As if by order of Signor Annibal ? Both. Yes. Top. And the captain? Fran. Is coming now.QUEEN TOPAZE. Top. Good) Leave me. {exeunt Frit, and Fran., u. r. h.) I fear'd a refusal. He comes! [she retires a little. Enter Raph., u. e. l. Rapii. Well, this is strange. What can Signor Aimibal want with me ? Top. (comes forward) He does not want you at alL The message came from me. Raph. From you? Top. Yes, from me—the beggar-girl of Yicenza. Raph. .Topaze, whom I saw leaning on the arm of a certain gentleman at nightfall ? Top. Yes, even she. Raph. Oh, do not feel annoyed; do not waste any tears. Top. No fear of tears. When a gipsy is offended, she does not weep—she seeks for vengeance ! Raph. Pray, with whom do you intend to begin ? With Signor Annibal, or me ? ( Top. With you, for you have offended me most deeply. Yesterday evening, there was a lady on the Piazzetta who observed you closely. She was evidently annoyed at finding you in Venice. Raph. I don't understand. Top. You will, presently. Why she wished you out of the way, is as yet a mystery. That we may solve it, I have lured her to an interview with you, and— Enter Filomela, r. Top. Here she is. Fil. Ah! Raph. Diana! „ Top. There's the riddle solved by a single word. Laughing Song. Top. What, indeed, you each other know ? Ha! then my presence shall not grieve you, I'm in the way, perhaps, if so, To your tete-a-tete I leave you.QUEEN TO^AZE. There pass'd but yesterday, Ii\ her bark lightly dancing, A lady proud and gay, Triumphantly glancing; As she laugh'd with disdain, x Echo answer'd again, Ha! ha! ha! ha! It was said, in time long past, Ha! ha! ha! ha! They laugh longest who laugh last. Ha! ha! ha! ha! [exit Top., l. Eaph. I can hardly express my surprise, signora. Anni. (behind scenes) Consider my house as your own, gentlemen. Enter Annibal, l. Fil. Annibal—gracious Heaven ! Anni. What! flirting with the countess. I see you meditate revenge. Of course, you know that the countess— Rapii. Will shortly be the happy bride of Signor Annibal.—Ha! ha! ha! Anni. I dare say it is very amusing, but— Eaph. Capital, capital! You'll just allow me to— -stop a moment, don't move—there-— [contrives to hang medallion round the neck of Annibal. Eapii. What, indeed, you intend to wed ? Ha! then my presence shall not grieve you. I'm in the way perhaps, 'tis said, So, to your tete-a-tete I leave you. But yesterday, a heart so confiding I slighted, That fondly unto me all its passion reveal'd; To me she's lost. Alas ! my fate is darkly seai'd^ For her loVe then I unrequited ;QUEENTOPAZE. 25 But why this bitter, vain regret ? In present mirth, I?ll her forget. Ha ! ha! ha! ha! It was said, in time long past, Ha! ha ! ha ! ha! They laugh longest who laugh the last, Ha I ha 1 ha ! ha! [exit Raph., r. Anni. What the deuce are they laughing at ? And what is this fine article he has hung round my neck ? Fil. Open it at your peril. Anni. But why may I not ? Fil. Because I forbid you. Anni. Oh, that, of course, is a sufficient reason; but still I should much like to know what it contains. Fil. I do know—it is mine. Anni. But it was in the captain's hands. Fil. Precisely; I was showing it to him. Anni. Now, what does it contain, after all ? Fil. My portrait. Anni. For him? Fil. No, it was for you. Anni. (opens the locket) Indeed—lier portrait. Fil. Now I must have it back. All is over be- tween us. Duet. Anni. Ah! recall, recall that decree; Still, still be kind, forbearing. Oh ! doom me not to endless woe; Kindly smile yet on me, Leave me not thus despairing; All your resentment now forego; Look on me still with glances sweet, While suppliant at your feet. Oh J forgive me, pardon my boldness; Look on me still with glances sweet; Freeze not my soul with frowns or coldness, View me now suppliant at your feet.m QP§Pf; yW&m- Fil. I have resc$ved-~Tno, no, no, no, To you no mercy will I stow. Anni. Your heart relents, spite of all you say. Oil! to its dictates obedience pay; Look on me still with glances sweet, While suppliant at your feet. Fil. 'Arise, since it must be, False one! pardon receiving. Anni. Oh ! joy past all believing, To behold you once more my friend. Fil. Beware ! how you again offend. Anni. Kind fortune hath befriended, Success my hopes attended. I touch'd her heart of love:e Her faith to me is plighted; Yes, we shall be united. The victor I shall prove. Fil. Ah ! night of vexation, "Without one glad sensation! Prudence whispers, " Away." I'll the warning obey. - . Her questions I evaded. He'll cherish this delusion still; With her I can't dissemble, Before her glance I tremble, Each thought she reads at will, Her looks my senses thrill. [Anni. kisses hand of Fil., then exit Fii_ Re-enter Gritti, Loredano, #ACT III SCENE. A small, elegant room, opening upon a vast conservatory, from side doors.—As the curtain rises, Fran., Frit., and the other gipsies are parting. Chorus.—Rapii. suddenly enters, and steps between Fran, and Frit.— One of them is passing a dish to the other—they attempt to run away. Chorus (behind the scenes). Drink, comrades, drink, Drink till the morning sliine; Quaff, deeply quaff, Quaff of this sparkling wine. La! la! la! la! [Exeunt all but Rapii. Raph. Stop, rascals! They actually believe the palace is their own. Where is Topaze?—(the gipsies make a sign that she is asleep.) Tis false—she left last night about the same time as myself, and came back this morning. Is she alone with Annibal ? The rascals make no answer! [a violent JcnocMng at door, l. h., which Raph. opens. Anni. At last! (behind semes.) Raph. Stop where you are.—(closes door again, and locks it). She is not with him, at any rate. Now, why did she pretend not to see me, when I came in ? I mil look for her. in the gallery. [exit second door, r. h.—at the same moment enter Top. from conservatory.QUEEN TOPAZE. Enter Topajse from terr^e, at hack. Air. 'Top. Fortune smiles upon me to-day, Ail to me reverence pay; Bow "with faithful devotion. At last, delighted,* My love'requited; Hope fills my bosom, Gladdens my heart. All brightly is beaming, Of pleasure dreaming; The sunshine gleaming, Bids grief depart. Enter Annibal, l. Knocks. Topaze opens. Top. Well, signor, I hope you have passed a good night. I have been amusing myself with the pictures. That portrait of a lady awakens within me the strangest emotions. Has it been long in your family ? Anni. No; it was bought at the sale of the last Countess Salviati. Top. Indeed! But pray don't look so cross. A husband in the dumps is the ugliest of creatures. Anni. Husband! ah, true—I forgot we were married. Top. Nay, that's too bad; especially when one has married a queen. Annl A queen !—exactly. I have recovered my senses. This joke has been carried quite far enough. (Top. laughs.) You. laugh because yon think that I .am a close prisoner, and that nobody will come to my assistance. Allow me to tell you, tliat I wrote on my tablets a history of our little adventure, which I flung out of window, and they were soon picked up by passers by. Top. Thank you for the information, (she strikes a bell on table—a gipsy appears.) Let all be ready for the immediate departure of myself and my consort. Anni. Where are we going?36 QUEEN TOPAZE. Top. No matter; we can : always be happy with those we love. Anni. But I—I don't want to be happy. Top. The captain is here. Yon will take leave of him before we start; and mind yon do not keep me waiting. [runs off.) r. u. E, Air. Anni. Such an outrage ne'er was heard of, Forc'd, against one's will, to wed . With a wand'ring, roving gipsy, Whom I view with perfect dread. I have been deceiv'd and cozen'd, But no reason fair I see, Why I should not break the fetters That have been impos'd on me. No law on earth can ever bind A heart to wedlock disinclin'd. So, courage! courage!—brave the worst, These odious chains of thraldom burst. Such an outrage, &c., &c., &c. Anni. Here comes my guard of honour, I suppose*. So—that cursed prince and his friend. Enter Fran, mul Frit. Trio. Frit. When I drink, ' tis very odd, Fran. | In the creed of fatalism I believe so. Frit. I am always gay. Fran. Ah! I always grieve so. Both. When I drink, 'tis puzzling quite. Fran. I see all in black. Frit. I see all in white. Good wine I'll drink, while able, It gives me strength to fight; I'd have \t on my table, Morning, noon and night. Fran. Ah ! I'll drink while I'm able, All my sorrow despite ; I'd have wine on my table, Morning, noon and night.QUEEN TOPAZE. 37 Anni. To the devil, were I able, I would send both in spite; "Would the wine on my table Could poison them outright! Frit, (to Anni.) Be your soul in Heav'n's keeping; Fate blessings on you show'r! Fran, (to Anni.) Mayyall for you be weeping, At death's eventful hour. Frit & ) Good wine I'll drink, &c. Fran, j* \ aiad Anni. To the devil, were I able, &c., &C.j &c. Anni. (aside) I'll try if I ean't make a friend. (aloud) Since for me friendship you're pro- fessing, ' Perhaps, you help to me can lend, To aid a plan that's rather pressing. Fran. Apian! Frit. What plan ? Anni. My plan is, that you two assistance give, And our marriage absurd undo. Fran. ) To deceive our mistress you would us dare & Frit. ) use ? Anni. To become the husband of a vile gipsy—I refuse! &*Fmt I* ^n(^ee(^ s^e's better far than you. Anni. Better than I!—a wandering gipsy ? j" r^°Paze more noble than you! Anni. More noble than I ? Frit. In birth, I'm inferior; There she's my superior : She's of noble rank. I say, without shame too, A dukedom I claim, too ; For this, Heaven I thank. Fran. In birth I'm inferior : There, she's my superior:38 QUEEN TOMII. She's of station great. A prince fortune made me ^ I serve those who kid me, Punish those I hate. Anni. Yes, her rank is, no doubt, like yomr ownr Frit. Not so! Fran. (weeping) You revive again my woe* With footstep light as any fairy, So free and wildj Far from a mother's eyes she wander d, The darling child! Ah! ah! poor little rover, Ah! ah! still my tears start. Frit. When my companion has drank deeply, He has a tender heart. Ami. Say that again, I heard it but in part. Repeating after Fran.) With footstep light as any fairy, So free and wild, Far from a mother's eyes she wander'd, The darling child! Anni. And then? , Fran. A man stole her away. Anni. Ah! stole her away? Fran. Luckless day! Anni. Luckless day! Fran. "> The man who such misery did bring, &Frit.) Was Taupin, the Gipsy King. 'Twas he, the traitor! Base, wretched king! Anni. Base, wretched king! Frit. He lov'd her with extreme affection, Like a tender father to her clung— Fran. Up to the moment he was hung. Anni. What was she call'd ? Fran. ) By name, Salviaiti! &Frit.) 'Tis she who is married to thee. Anni. My wife is rich and noble! 'Tis quite another thing! She thought me to ensnare, With Hymen's magic ring;QUEEN TOPAZE. But, by retaining lier as wife, I shall- be victor in the strife. Ensemble. Anni. Hurrah, ! I am the winner, So, fill the goblet high; 'Tis not a time to sorrow, When wine is sparkling nigh. Frit. Hurrah! let us be merry, A fig for frowning fate; 'Tis not a time to sorrow, When brimming goblets wait. Fran. Viva ! let us be merry, Care not for frowning fate ; 'Tis not a time to sorrow, When brimming goblets wait. Anni. Oh, if she is a real Salviati, that is a different matter. Enter Raphael/rom gallery, r. down l. Raph. I have searched all the galleries for her in vain, (to Frit, and Fran.) So you are there, you rascals. You shall give me an explanation. Anni. Ah, captain, I am very glad to see you. If you chance to light upon the countess, you may tell her from me, that I am perfectly satisfied with the existing arrangements. So, good-bye, captain—good- bye. Raph. Where are you going ? Anni. On my wedding tour. Come along, rascals I come along, guard of honour ! \liurries off] followed by Fran, and Frit. Raph. Deceived by her, after all. (Top. appears in the conservatory, gathering flowers?) There she is! No, there is no deceit in her—-she pauses—she plucks a flower. Ah, she is not thinking of Annibal now. Alas! for me Hope's star hath set for ever.40 QUEEN TOPAZES Romance. Raph. Oh! light as falling snow, Her love hath been for me; And yet, she binds me, like some spell, Where'er I be. I strive, alas! in vain, Still from her charms to flee. Fair flow'r! so brightly blooming, Oh ! as she wanders by, While now her hands caress thee, Breathe thou, one tender sigh; Say that, a I love her yet, Still fondly her adore; That she will haunt me in my dreams From shore to shore, Like mem'ry of sweet hours, To come, alas! no more." Now, like some shatter'd bark, That winds and waves divide, No friendly moon to light my path, No star to guide, My lonely heart is driv'n Down life's tempestuous tide. Oh ! gentle flow'r! remind her, Of hopes long nurs'd for years; Of all my soul's affection Its sorrows and its fears. Say that, " I love her yet, Still fondly her adore, That she will haunt me in my dreams, From shore to shore, Like mem'ry of sweet hours, To come, alas ! no more." [Top. comes forward, k. u. e., but, perceiving Raph., is about to retreat Raph. You avoid me, Topaze. Top. Why should I avoid you ? Raph. Because you have deceived me. That gro-QUEEN TOPAZE. 41 tesque marriage was not a mere unmeaning mockery. You and Annibal leave Venice together. I know all. Duet. Raph. You've me deceiv'd! You said you lov'd— I you believ'd! False you have prov'd! Top. Why are you thus complaining, When not one spark retaining, Of love's passion for me ? Raph. Once, to delight you, strove, Follow'd my footsteps blindly; Why chang'd now to me prove ? Whence can this coldness be ? You but smile ! Ah ! tis severe, Acting thus so unkindly. Silent I'll be no longer, Whate'er may be my fate ; I now detest you, yes, I hate! Adieu, then. Top. . You go ? Kaph. For ever! Yes, I go far from vou. Top. No ! Why bid adieu to me ? Raph. Stay me not. Top. Why bid adieu to me ? Raph. Alas ! I would fain hide the cause why we sever. I go, yes, because I love you. Top. (aside) Oh! what bliss! He is all mine own ; Joy like this Ne'er my heart hath known. Raph. Ah! once it was your care to guard me; Like a good angel, all my hopes you then sus- tain'd. When your affection I disdain'd, A thrilling anguish deeply mov'd you; From that hour, ah! truly I lov'd you.42 —2wo Sonatas complete in each number. PSICE OF EACH NUMBER, ONE SHILLING. OTHER NUMBERS, EQUALLY ATTRACTIVE, WILL BE ISSUED MONTHLY, LONDON: CHAPPELL AND CO., 49 and 50, NEW BOND STREET, W.This book is a preservation facsimile produced for the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. It is made in compliance with copyright law and produced on acid-free archival i 60# book weight paper which meets the requirements of ANSI/NISO Z39.48-1992 (permanence of paper). 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