Naughty Marietta

A Musical Comedy

In

Two Acts

Books and Lyrics by RIDA JOHNSON YOUNG

Music by Victor Herbert

CAST OF CHARACTERS

CAPTAIN RICHARD WARRINGTON...An American known as Captain Dick

LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR GRANDET

ETIENNE GRANDET....................Son of the Lieutenant-Governor

SIR HARRY BLAKE....................An Irish adventurer

SILAS SLICK........................Captain Dick's servant

RUDOLFO............................Keeper of Marionette Theatre

FLORENCE...........................Secretary to Lieutenant-Governor

MARIETTA D'ALTENA

LIZETTE............................A Casquette girl

ADAH...............................A Quadroon slave

FANCHON, NANETTE, FELICE

NIGHT WATCHMAN, PIRATES, INDIAN, EAST INDIAN, KNIFE GRINDER

Quadroon Belles, Spanish Girls, French Girls, Captain Dick's followers, Italians, etc., etc.

----

SYNOPSIS OF SCENES

ACT I: PUBLIC SQUARE in New Orleans

ACT II:

Scene 1: A Marionette Theatre

Scene 2: Ballroom of the Jeunesse Club

PLACE: NEW ORLEANS

PERIOD: 1780.

PROPERTY PLOT

ACT I

Old-fashioned lantern (NIGHT WATCHMAN)

Street lamp and lamp post

Small ladder

Large key on ring

Booths for vendors of flowers, confectionary, candies, etc.

Donkey with paniers of flowers

Articles for VENDORS, ad lib, such as figs, oranges, sugar

cane, parroquettes, etc.

Brooms for STREET SWEEPER

Knife grinder's outfit and bell

Pair of scissors (ADAH)

Bunch of roses

Knives for TWO PIRATES

Guns for DICK and FOLLOWERS

Bundle of letters (DICK)

Bell and official document (TOWN CRIER)

Casquettes (CARQUETTE GIRLS and LIZETTE)

Knives and cutlass (SILAS)

Papers and gold pieces in casquette (LIZETTE)

Basket (RAG PICKER)

Hand organ to play music of score (RUDOLFO)

Tambourines

Official document (SECRETARY)

Convent bell (Off stage)

Church organ (Off stage)

ACT II

Scene 1

Complete equipment of the small marionette stage with figures of Pierrette, Pierrot, Harlequin, ropes to manipulate figures, curtain, footlights, steps up to marionette platform, etc., etc.,

tambourine on wall --

feather duster --

stool in front of window,

box or stool

outside window.

Scene 2

Furniture of period for ballroom

Fancy gilt tables, settee, chairs, etc., etc.

Packs of cards and sets of dice

Castanette (SPANISH GIRLS)

Dog whistle (GOVERNOR)

Whistle (ETIENNE)

Pistols for PIRATEs

Guns for DICK'S MEN. (Flintlock Muskets)

-----

ACT I

PLACE: New Orleans.

TIME: About 1780.

SCENE: The Place d'Armes.

A broad open space with the levee at back. There is a path along this levee bordered on both sides by tall trees, some of which are draped with the gray Southern moss. There is just a glimpse of the Mississippi between these trees. Along the levee from time to time as act progresses, people of various nationalities past. Mexicans, Indians, Spaniards, Negroes, etc. At extreme L. is an arcaded street in which are booths for flower sellers, cake and confectionary - sailors, etc. Over this arcade are the high latticed windows of dwellings in old Creole style. There is a door at L. into one of these houses. At right is the getaway entrance to the St. Louis Cathedral. Up stage in centre is a large fountain. The top of the fountain is in the form of a large urn. The pedestal leading from the basin to the urn must be large enough for a person to stand up in. The fountain is dry.

DISCOVERED: At rise of curtain it is just dawn. The sky shows crimson and gold over the river. Some BEGGARS are asleep at base of fountain. The music is soft and low.

NO. 1. OPENING CHORUS

Enter NIGHT WATCHMEN with lantern.

Night Watchman

Five o'clock and a fine clear morning. All's well.

(BEGGARS bestir themselves and sit up yawning. LAMPLIGHTER comes in and placing his little ladder against side of house, exstinguishes lantern. SACRISTAN comes shuffling across stage and with great key unlocks the door of cathedral. FLOWER GIRLS' VOICES off L. At entrance of FLOWER GIRLS the sun breaks forth and the stage becomes bright)

1st Flower Girl

JESSAMINE. JESSAMINE AND ROSES.

2nd Flower Girl

ROSE OF MAY. BLUSHING POSIES.

1st Flower Girl

JESSAMINE. JESSAMINE AND ROSES.

2nd Flower Girl

FRESH FLOWERS, SWEET FLOWERS. ROSES. FLOWERS.

(CHORUS enters in twos and threes forming little groups. MAN enters with donkey L.U. baskets on donkey, filled with flowers which he sells to flower girls)

Girls

COME, COME, COME FOR THE MORNING IS BREAKING.

HASTE, HASTE, HASTE, FOR THE DAY IS AWAKING.

YOUTH, LIFE, LOVE, EVERYWHERE,

GARLANDS OF ROSES RARE,

FRAGRANCE UPON THE AIR SHAKING.

COME, COME, HASTE. SWEET, SWEET, SWEET. NOW 'TIS SPRINGTIME ENTHRALLING.

PEEP, PEEP, PEEP, NOW THE LOVE BIRDS ARE CALLING.

CULL YOUR FLOWERS, WHILE YOU MAY,

SHORT AH. TOO SHORT THE DAY.

Man

(Off)

PAROQUETTES. PAROQUETTES.

PETALS WILL FADE AWAY FALLING.

Men

(Entering with various things for sale)

PAROQUETTES, PAROQUETTES. HAPPY FORTUNES TELLING,

FRESH FIGS, ORANGES, SUGAR CANE. SUGAR CANE. ---

Girls

COME HERE, I'LL BUY.

DON'T PASS US BY.

Street Sweepers

COME, CLEAR THE WAY, CLEAR OUT I SAY,

YOU FOOLISH VENDORS CRYING

WE HAVE TO SWEEP THE DUST AWAY,

WE HAVE NO TIME FOR BUYING.

WE HAVE TO WORK TO CLEAR THE WAY,

THE CASKET GIRLS COME TODAY,

TO MAKE ALL FRESH AND FAIR AND GAY WE'RE TRYING.

Girls

1

HERE THEY COME THE CONVENT MAIDS,

SO DEMURE AND SHY

CREOLE BEAUTIES EVERY ONE,

SEE THEM PASSING BY.

DOWNCAST LASHES, LIPS DEMURE

STOPS PRECISE AND STAID.

OH LA LA OH LA LA.

I WOULDN'T BE A CONVENT MAID.

(Start of CONVENT GIRLS from L)

OH LA LA. OH LA LA

I WOULDN'T BE A CONVENT MAID.

2

THERE'S MAMSELLE DE FRONTENAC,

AND MAMSELLE ROSE MARIE,

CREOLE BEAUTIES EVERYONE,

HIGH NOBILITY.

LOOKING NEVER RIGHT OR LEFT,

TO SMILE THEY ARE AFRAID,

OH LA LA OH LA LA.

I WOULDN'T BE A CONVENT MAID.

(CONVENT GIRLS exit into cathedral)

Man

PAROQUETTES, PAROQUETTES. HAPPY FORTUNES TELLING.

SUGAR CANE. SUGAR CANE.

Street Sweepers

CLEAR THE WAY -- CLEAR OUT I SAY.

All

OH COME, COME, COME, FOR THE MORNING IS BREAKING,

HASTE, HASTE, HASTE, FOR THE DAY IS AWAKING.

YOUTH, LIFE, LOVE, EVERYWHERE.

GARLANDS OF ROSES RARE

FRAGRANCE UPON THE AIR SHAKING.

SWEET, SWEET, SWEET, NOW 'TIS SPRINGTIME ENTHRALLING.

PEEP, PEEP, PEEP. NOW THE LOVE BIRDS ARE CALLING.

CULL YOUR FLOWERS WHILE YOU MAY

SHORT, AH, TOO SHORT THE DAY.

PETALS WILL FADE AWAY, FALLING.

(Etc., etc. until end of Chorus)

(At close of chorus enter from R.1.E. ETIENNE GRANDET, the son of the Lieutenant-Governor. He is a young man of very elegant manners and dress. Full of the gallantry and extreme courtesy of a beau of the times. He is supposed to be merely a social butterfly but is in reality the pirate Bras Pique, whose band of buccaneers is the terror of the whole coast)

Girls

(Ad lib)

Monsieur Etienne. Welcome back. Welcome home. (Girls rush forward and greet him)

Etienne

Ah, Felice, Nanette, Fanchon. And how goes everything in Little Paris?

Felice

Oh, Monsieur. New Orleans no longer deserves the name of Little Paris with you away.

Nanette

(Offering flower)

Will Monsieur wear a rose?

Felice

No. No. My jessamine.

Fanchon

Ah no. The Fleur de Lis --

Etienne

(Taking the Fleur de Lis and putting it in his buttonhole)

Surely the flower of France, since I am so loyal a subject of his gracious Majesty. Come, what is the news in Little Paris? What fortunes have been lost at dice? Who won the lottery? Who has stolen whose sweetheart?

Fanchon

Oh, Monsieur. There is no scandal when you are away.

Etienne

(Laughing)

Rather a back-handed compliment, my dear.

Felice

But such excitment -- Bras Pique, the pirate is abroad again.

Etienne

Indeed?

Nanette

He has scarcely allowed one ship to come safely in harbor since you sailed.

Felice

And Monsieur, the Place d'Armee is haunted.

Etienne

Haunted, ha, ha!

(Looks about laughing)

Rather an open, airy place for a ghost.

Felice

It is true. You shall hear --- A voice in the air - singing -- But the voice comes from nowhere ---

Nanette

They say it is the spirit of someone who went down in the last vessel scuttled by Bras Pique.

(THEY ALL cross themselves)

Etienne

Ha, ha! Nonsense.

Felice

But 'tis true, Monsieur. Everyone has heard it. The voice, so sweet -- so mysterious. It begins a melody and then dies away.

Fanchon

It goes like this --

(She hums the refrain of Marietta's dream melody)

LA, LA, LA, LA, ETC.

(Knife grinder's bell can be heard off U.C.)

Etienne

Someone is playing you tricks.

Fanchon

No. No. Even Pere Antoine has heard it. He has had prayers said.

Knife Grinder

Knives to grind! Knives and scissors to grind.

(ADAH, Etienne's quadroon slave and mistress, opens lattice of window over arcade)

Adah

(To Knife Grinder)

Here! My shears. (Throws scissors to man, sees Etienne)

Nanette

(Aside to other Girls)

We had better leave or we shall have our faces scratched for talking to him.

(ETIENNE takes bunch of roses from NANETTE and throws them up to Adah)

Adah

Oh Master, it has been so long -- I feared --

Etienne

(Laughing)

You feared perhaps that I had been spliced to the yard arm by Bras Pique.

Adah

Oh no! Not you. Will you come in?

Etienne

Presently.

(ADAH goes in from balcony closing window)

(Enter te TWO PIRATES, L.C.)

Fanchon

Look, Monsieur. Pirates?

Etienne

Nonsense! Just innocent sailors on shore leave. The Casquette girls are about to land and they are here for the fun.

Fanchon, Felice, Nanette

Oh we must see the Casquette Girls too.

Come, au revoir, Monsieur!

(ALL throw kisses to him as they run off R.U.)

Etienne

Au revoir!

1st Pirate

(To Etienne)

Master Pique!

Etienne

Not Pique here!

1st Pirate

We cannot land our goods at Barataria.

Etienne

And what have I to do with you and your goods, my good fellow? (Goes toward house L)

1st Pirate

But Master, Captain Richard Warrington, the American, guards the coast for mile around the storehouses.

Etienne

In faith, 'tis a pretty pass when a gentleman may be accosted in the streets by a pack of ruffianly buccaneers. I shall have to inform my father, the Lieutenant-Governor, of this state of affairs, I shall indeed.

(He again attempts to pass them)

1st Pirate

But, Master -

Etienne

(Turning upon him sternly)

Enough. You know where you may see your master. And, Manuelo, as you value your ability to wear those pretty earrings, never let this happen again. Adieu!

(Exit house R)

(SAILORS look after him a moment)

2nd Pirate

What did I tell you, Manuelo?

1st Pirate

He is the Devil, Bras Pique! He fears nothing.

(THEY go up to Knife Grinder and throw him their knives to grind)

Town Crier

(Entering R)

Hear ye! Hear ye all. The King of France has sent a shipment of Casquette maids. All men desiring wives shall present themselves at the King's storehouse. Hear ye, hear ye. All men desiring to wed.

(He exits L)

(Sounds of CAPTAIN DICK'S MEN, FLOWER GIRLS, CITIZENS, etc. Enter U.L. street waving to Captain Dick's men as they enter. CAPTAIN DICK and HARRY BLAKE enter)

NO. 2 SONG

TRAMP! TRAMP! TRAMP! ALONG THE HIGHWAY.

TRAMP! TRAMP! TRAMP! THE ROAD IS FREE!

BLAZING TRAILS ALONG THE BYWAY.

COURIER DE BOIS ARE WE!

TRAMP! TRAMP! TRAMP! NOW CLEAR THE ROADWAY.

ROOM ROOM ROOM THE WORLD IS FREE

WE'RE PLANTERS AND CANUCKS,

VIRGINIANS AND KAINTUCKS,

CAPTAIN DICK'S OWN INFANTRY.

SONG

Captain Dick

WE'VE HUNTED THE WOLF IN THE FOREST,

WE'VE RAIDED THE PIRATES AT SEA,

WE HAVE NO INDENTURE,

WE'RE OUT FOR ADVENTURE,

AS ANYONE PLAINLY CAN SEE,

WE'VE SMOKED THE PEACE PIPE WITH THE HATCHES

WE'VE FOUGHT WITH THE SIOUX WILD AND FREE

WE'VE LAUGHED AT ALL DANGERS,

WE'RE KNOWN AS THE RANGERS,

HARRY BLAKE - MY GOOD COMRADES --

(DICK sings chorus - MEN repeat. DICK and MEN repeat 3rd chorus together end of 3rd chorus, orchestra repeats chorus -- DICK'S MEN and FLOWER GIRLS and CITIZENS all exit R. and L.)

Dick

(Calls)

Tramp! Tramp! Tramp!

Silas! Silas!

(Enter SILAS SLICK R.U.E. Comes down R.C.)

Go to palace at once. Present these letters to the Governor.

(Hands HIM letters)

And ask when he will grant an audience to Sir Harry Blake and Captain Richard Warrington.

Silas

And me?

Dick

And why you?

Silas

Why me, he asks! Was it not understood that I was to serve you until - until, mark you - I could find an opportunity that will place me in the environment to which I have always been accustomed?

Dick

(With a laugh)

And what good will it do you if I include you in the audience to the governor?

Silas

I want to hear everything that's going on. I'm a servant - but I'm a temperamental servant.

Etienne

(Enters form house R)

One moment, my good man.

Silas

I am his good man -- for the present.

(ETIENNE approaches CAPTAIN DICK)

Etienne

If I mistake not, I am addressing Captain Richard Warrington.

Dick

At your service, sir.

Etienne

I am Etienne Grandet, the son of the Lieutenant Fovernor. You may present your letters in person. My father will receive you as soon as he has disposed of the King's casket maids.

Dick

Thank you, but my letters are to Governor Le Farge.

Etienne

Governor Le Farge sailed last month on a private mission to France. My father is in authority meanwhile.

Dick

Oh in that case -- of course -- Silas, the letters.

(He takes letters from SILAS. To Etienne)

We have permission on from your king to attempt the capture of this buccaneer, Bras Pique, who has made it a hazardous venture for English ships to bring us supplies.

Silas

Yes -- we will splice him with his own yard arm!

(He tries to break into the conversation, each time THEY push him back)

Etienne

Indeed? That is good news. I trust you may be successful. But is not New Orleans a strange place for an attack on this

Dick

(Laughing)

Oh, as to that, we are in New Orleans only for a few days. My men are looking for --

Sir Harry

Trouble.

Etienne

Trouble -- what kind? We can perhaps oblige.

Dick

The worst trouble, wives.

Sir Harry

My friend here, is an acknowledged woman hater.

Silas

You see, sir, he doesn't attract the ladies -- How I love the darlings. Why? Because they love me.

Dick

No one addressed you, Silas.

Silas

Oh, very well.

Dick

(To Etienne)

My lads have heard what fine wives the King's casket maids make, and when they learned that a fresh shipment was to be disposed of here in New Orleans, nothing would do but every one of them must run his head into the matrimonial noose.

Silas

And let me tell you - to get caught in that noose is not nice.

Dick

(Roaring)

Quiet!

Silas

(Quickly)

Here you are, sir.

(He clamps his hand over his own mouth)

Etienne

Is it the girls or the well filled caskets which the king sends with him that attracts the men?

Sir Harry

Sir. That is not a very gallant remark for a Frenchman.

Etienne

No harm meant. You, I take it, are Irish?

Sir Harry

Take it or leave it, I am.

Silas

And I -- sir, am a rising American. Submerged at present, but looking for my opportunity.

Etienne

(Laughing)

Indeed?

(To Dick and Harry)

If you will excuse me, Messieurs, I will tell my father of your arrival.

Dick

We shall be obliged.

(ETIENNE exits with elaborate bows R.U.E.)

(SILAS, taking the bows for himself, bows respectedly in imitation of him as he goes off)

Sir Harry

He bows too much. I don't like the French.

(TOWN CRIER comes in R. as DICK and HARRY exit L)

Town Crier

Hear ye, hear ye, all men desiring wives -- the King has sent a vessel of Casket Maids -- to be disposed of at the King's storehouse -- Hear ye, hear ye! All men desiring wives!

(He goes off R. as the music of CASKET MAIDS is heard)

(SILAS going up to fountain)

Silas

I'd better get away -- Those poor fellows will never get wives if the girls once see me.

(Exits)

(CASQUETTE MAIDS and MEN dance in and sing:)

No. 3 "I'M COMING HERE TO BE MARRIED."

(CASQUETTE GIRLS enter R.U. with caskets followed by MEN)

Men

I HAVE BROAD LANDS AND A CABIN TOO,

I'VE A RANGE WELL STOCKED WITH CARIBOU,

I'VE A SNUG LITTLE NEST BIG ENOUGH FOR TWO.

Girls

REFRAIN:

TAISEZ VOUS, TAISEZ VOUS. THAT'LL DO.

WE'RE COMING HERE TO BE MARRIED, MARRIED, MARRIED,

WE DON'T INTEND TO BE MARRIED, NOT BY YOU!

THE KING HAS GIVEN US CASKETS FAIR!

OUR SMALL POSSESSIONS ARE IN THERE.

YOU'LL HAVE TO SHOW YOU'RE FAIR AND SQUARE,

TAISEZ VOUS, TAISEZ VOUS.

Men

OH MAIDEN FAIR, OH MAIDEN FAIR,

WON'T YOU MARRY ME?

Girls

TAISEZ VOUS, TAISEZ VOUS, WE'LL SEE!

Men

I'M FROM ARCADY, THE MON' BEN' LAN' --

I'M FROM KAINTUCK, YOU KNOW THAT'S GRAND,

I'VE A HOUSE, A COW, AND A BIT OF LAND.

Girls

TAISEZ VOUS. THAT'LL DO.

(Repeat refrain - have a little dance and exit L.U. after Dick's men)

(LIZETTE enters R.U. singing, "I'm Coming Here to be Married." INDIAN enters R.U. and crosses stage to L)

Lizette

Not a man has noticed me yet -- but the King guaranteed us all husbands -- and I'll sue him for break of contract -- if he doesn't make good.

(Sees Indian)

Oh -- maybe that is mine!

(To Indian)

Tessy vous!

Indian

Ugh!

Lizette

Now I wonder what that means.

Indian

Ugh! Ugh!

Lizette

It must have a double meaning.

(INDIAN exits as SILAS enters)

Silas

(Looking after INDIAN, who walks out, arms folded, head high in exaggerated dignity)

Those Indians, the way they strut. You'd think they owned the country.

(He sees Lizette)

Hello, what's your name?

Lizette

Lizette - and I'm looking for a husband.

Silas

My name's Silas Slick - and I'm looking for a good offer.

Lizette

Are your intentions serious?

Silas

It depends - that casquette, the King gave you. Is it valuable?

Lizette

(Taking out casquette and dangling it before him)

Here it is -- but it's not to be opened until after the wedding.

Silas

H-m-m - doesn't look as if there's much gold in it.

Lizette

(Indignantly)

Is it the gold or me you're interested in?

Silas

A little of both - with the gold running slightly in the lead.

Lizette

I tell you what I'll do. I'll go to the storehouse and look over the crop of prospective husbands. If they're not any better than you - I'll come back and consider your proposal.

Silas

(Sputtering)

But - wait - it was - I mean - that is - it wasn't a proposal - it was an investigation!

(He follows HER out - both arguing ad lib)

(Enter from R.U. LIETENANT-GOVERNOR and FLORENCE)

Governor

Dear me! Florence, fold the umbrella straight and don't stop fanning! If I had known the amount of work I'd have to do I would never have accepted the post of Lieutenant- Governor!

(Enter ETIENNE hurriedly from R.1.E.)

Etienne

Ah, Father!

Governor

So you are back!

Etienne

As you see.

Governor

(Coming down and taking him aside)

Did you have a - er - prosperous voyage to France?

Etienne

(Laughing)

To France! Oh come, you need not keep up this pretense with me, old side partner!

Governor

Don't call me side partner. You know I don't like it.

Etienne

But you are, you know. I do all the work. You protect me as a loving father should and you get half the profits.

(Enter DICK and BLAKE, L.U.)

Governor

Ssh!

(Looking around apprehensively at Florence)

I don't know what you are talking about. A public official may receive presents but not profits.

Etienne

Ssh! Diplomacy, Father, diplomacy!

(Speaking to Dick and Harry)

Ah, gentlemen!

(DICK and HARRY come downstage)

Father, allow me to present Captain Richard Warrington and Sir Henry Blake.

Dick

We are honored, sir. We have a warrant from your king to attempt the capture of Bras Pique!

Governor

Eh?

Dick

We shall need your signature.

Etienne

We must give them every assistance, Father.

Governor

Oh, assuredly. Assuredly! Bye and bye. At present, urgent affairs call me.

(Goes off R.U. with FLORENCE)

Sir Harry

(Aside to Dick)

In faith, Monsieur Bye and Bye will be of no great assistance to us.

Etienne

You must be patient with my father, Monsieur. He has much on his mind. He is on his way to dispose of the girls whom the King has sent here to wed our settlers.

Sir Harry

Ah! Speaking of those Casquette girls - tell me - have you any news of the pretty little devil who escaped from them?

Etienne

Escaped!

Sir Harry

Yes! From Mozambique where we saw them land -- my friend here is dying for news of her.

Dick

Nothing of the kind. I noticed her because she was different from the others.

Sir Harry

Yes, she was a fiery Italian girl and when the little devil learned that every Casquette girl was obliged to choose a husband, she said she'd take Dick.

Etienne

No!

Harry

Yes -- and when Dick politely refused her, she up and struck him across the face with her gloves.

Dick

Oh, it was nothing.

Sir Harry

And in the night, what did she do but up and vanish through the keyhold like smoke.

Etienne

That's strange, but, gentlemen, if you will join me at Antoine's Inn -- he has a pretty daughter who may do as well.

Dick

I must find ledgings for my men first -- we will see you later, if we may.

(Going towards R.U.)

Etienne

As you will, Messieurs!

(DICK and BLAKE exit R.U.)

(One hears MARIETTA singing very softly the dream melody)

(ETIENNE pauses. Looks about. The song dies away)

Strange -- I thought I heard --

(Goes off R.)

(MARIETTA draws herself up to edge of urn and with a little sigh of relief, and a roguish laugh, sits on ledge of urn and sings:)

No. 4 - SONG -- "NAUGHTY MARIETTA"

(The first verse and refrain sung on fountain)

(End verse and refrain down stage)

"NAUGHTY MARIETTA"

THERE ARE TWO LITTLE MAIDENS THAT LIVE IN MY HEART,

AND ONE IS SO GOOD LIKE DIS!

SHE LOOK COMME CA, AND SHE TALK LA LA!

LIKE BUTTER WON'T MELT, I GUESS!

BUT SO OTHER MARIETTA

DAT'S ALSO ME!

HAS A TEMPER SO WARM, IT'S TORRID,

SO WHEN I AM GOOD,

I AM VERY GOOD INDEED!

BUT WHEN I AM BAD, I AM HORRID!

REFRAIN

NAUGHTY MARIETTA BE GOOD, SAY SHE,

MAIS NON! SAY ME!

NAUGHTY MARIETTA, YOU SHOULD, SAY SHE,

BE GOOD LIKE ME!

NAUGHTY MARIETTA GO HOME, SAY SHE,

MAIS NON! NON! SAY ME!

THAT NAUGHTY MARIETTA, SHE SIMPLY WILL NOT LET HER

BE GOOD, AS SHE SHOULD, OUI! OUI!

(Leaves fountain, comes down)

2.

COME A TIME, TO THE CONVENT THEY SEND ME STRAIGHT OFF,

I'M NOT FOND OF DAT, NOT ME!

I SAY MY PRAYER, WELL, MOS' EVERYWHERE

AND BETTER THAN GOLD I BE.

BUT DE NAUGHTY MARIETTA

DAT'S ALSO ME.

MADE DAT CONVENT SO WARM, 'TWAS TORRID

CAUSE WHEN SHE WAS GOOD,

SHE WAS VERY GOOD INDEED;

BUT WHEN SHE WAS BAD, SHE WAS HORRID.

(At end of song)

Marietta

Santa Maria! I am hungry!

(She xes stage to cake stand and buys some cakes from MAID, who comes from house after song -- DICK enters R.U., sees Marietta, stops in C. of stage)

What now? If I pay in gold for everything -- soon there will be empty vacancy in the purse!

(She starts up stage, munching cake and comes face to face with Dick)

Ah! You have followed me!

Dick

(Indignantly)

I have done nothing of the kind!

Marietta

Well -- why not, then?

Dick

Why did you run away from the camp at Mozambique?

Marietta

(Mischeviously)

For fear you make me to marry you!

Dick

I make you -- whatever gave you that idea?

Marietta

You maybe take serious that little joke of mine at Mozambique? I only said that to gain time -- I would not choose you -- of all others.

Dick

Believe me, the incident is forgotten -- as for marrying, no thought is further from my mind.

Marietta

And me too!

Dick

I value my freedom.

Marietta

Me too!

Dick

I am not interested in love - it's nonsense.

Marietta

Me too!

Dick

But you must marry. You have accepted the King's casket.

Marietta

I throw it overboard - long time ago. The Casket! Bah!

Dick

What are you going to do?

Marietta

You must find me another dress.

Dick

What?

Marietta

Certainly -- you must get me -- what you say -- a disguise.

Dick

A disguise? I should say not.

Marietta

Can I stay forever sitting in zat fountain like a bird on ze nest?

Dick

But --

Marietta

For hours I have nothing but fruit and cake -- it makes me sick -- yes. I must come out I must sing and dance with all these gay people! I like this Little Paris -- I shall stay!

Dick

But --

Marietta

(Calmly)

Accordingly -- you must arrange for me something!

Dick

I -- why should I --

Marietta

Who else? You are my friend -- it is arranged -- is it not?

Dick

It is not -- arranged!

Marietta

Besides -- ze whole -- thing is your fault.

Dick

My fault? why?

Marietta

Because. Anyway it is. If you had not make me angry, oh but so angry, at Mozambique -- perhaps I don't know -- maybe I not run away.

Dick

Do you know, I should take you at once to the Governor.

Marietta

But you will not?

Dick

Eh?

Marietta

You are stupid, but not cruel!

Dick

Stupid?

Marietta

Like all men, maybe a little more stupid. You will get me the little dress. What you say? Skin and fur from here down, like a boy -- mais the other part -- perhaps a little becoming wiz lace? Yes!

Dick

I'll do nothing of the kind.

Marietta

Oh, but if you could see how -- what you say -- attractive I am in zose things from here down like a boy! Come, it is arrange! I will be one of your soldiers. "Tramp! Tramp! Tramp!" and when I am tire', you can carry me!

Dick

It's preposterous!

Marietta

Of course it is pre---- that word you say. So you will hide me until the casket vessel sails away and all is over.

Dick

I most certainly will not hide you!

(Noise off L.U.)

Ssh! Someone is coming, quick!

(Indicates fountain)

Marietta

(Laughing)

Oh no! You will not hide me, my friend!

(Enter LIZETTE with SILAS following from L.U.)

Lizette

I can't even find the storehouse. It seems I'm not wanted and not wanted badly.

Silas

It may be my opportunity -- I'd risk it if she'd let me have a look in that casket.

Dick

Silas -- Silas!

Silas

Yes, Captain --

Dick

I want you to go and find an Italian named Rudolfo who has a Marionette Theatre on the Rue -- Rue Canondelet. Bring him here at once.

Silas

A Marionette Theatre. This may be my opportunity. I always thought I'd be a good actor.

Dick

Do you hear, sir?

Silas

Right away, sir. (He exits L.U.)

(DICK goes up to call Marietta, when LIZETTE, who has been sitting disconsolately aside on casquette, sees him)

Lizette

Oh! Maybe this is my Fate.

(To Dick)

Ahem! Teasey vous! Teasey vous. You'll pardon me! I'm so impulsive. Are you in the market?

Dick

I? No! Go away!

(MARIETTA laughs)

Lizette

Mercy! Remember I'm a nervous woman! You can at least direct me to the storehouse where they're giving out the husbands.

Dick

I cannot. I am strange here.

Lizette

My opinion is you'd be strange anywhere. I shouldn't have spoken to you at all if I had known you were a man of such an unsanitary character -- I bid you farewell forever!

Dick

Thanks.

(She goes off R.)

(CAPTAIN DICK looks off L., watches her crossing stage R., goes up to fountain, and calls)

Marietta! Marietta!

Marietta

(Suddenly jumping up)

Boo! Ha, ha, ha!

Dick

You - er - are very childish.

(Liftiing HER from fountain)

Marietta

And you also, my friend.

Dick

I have no woman friends.

(BOTH coming down stage)

Marietta

Well, I will take pity on you -- I will be your friend -- come now, say it --

No. 5 - SONG: "NEVER, NEVER CAN BE LOVE"

Marietta

CAPTAIN DICK

Dick

WELL, HERE'S MY HAND, WE'RE FRIENDS YOU SEE.

Marietta

CERTAINLEE. CERTAINLEE!

YOU'RE SURE YOU'LL NEVER MAKE LOVE AT ME?

Dick

NO! NO! YOU'LL SEE!

Mareitta

YOU'LL NEVER TRY JUST TO KISS MY HAND?

Dick

I'M NOT THAT FOOLISH KIND OF A MAN.

Both

THEN I'M SURE IF YOU'RE SURE

AND I'M SURE I'M SURE,

THAT WE MUTUALLY UNDERSTAND!

ENCORE

WE'LL CALL IT BOND PLATONIC,

OR FRIENDSHIP TRIED AND TRUE,

WE'LL CALL IT JUST GOOD COMRADESHIP,

OR SIMPLY CHUMS WILL DO.

YOU MAY SAY I'M YOUR SIDE PARTNER,

MY CLAIM ALL CLAIMS ABOVE,

BUT SOLEMLY SWEAR!

(Holding up hands)

YES, SOLEMNLY SWEAR!

IT NEVER, NEVER CAN BE LOVE!

(Chorus off)

NO! IT NEVER NEVER CAN BE LOVE!

(At the end of song, DICK takes MARIETTA and hides her in fountain. SILAS and RUDOLFO enter L.U.)

Rudolfo

Captain Dick -- I know a not a Captain Dick.

Silas

(To Dick)

Captain, here's Rudolfo. May I go?

Dick

Yes, you have the day to yourself.

(Exit SILAS R.U.)

Ah, you are Rudolfo, the keeper of the Marionette Theatre in the Rue Canondelet.

Rudolfo

Si, Signor, poor Rudolfo! Who loss da leeetle son Rafaello, so biga like dat-a, so dear-a like dis-a, bed-a like hell-a.

Dick

Exactly -- well, I bring you word of Rafaello!

Rudlofo

You bring me word of my Rafaello! Oh, Signor! Heaven bless you. Permit-a me to salute.

(Attempt to kiss Captain Dick on cheeks)

Dick

That will do!

Rudolfo

Where is he, my Rafaello?

Dick

He's safe enough at my father's plantation in Kentucky. He is my mother's page boy where he does nothing all day with infinite grace.

Rudolfo

Does nothing-a. Ah! That-a would please my Rafaello! He no like - pulls de Marionetta. He no like-a da organ-a. He no like-a da monk. He damn poor Italian. Oh, Signor. Safe and happy. I am your slave! I kiss your hands, your feet.

(MARIETTA peeps from behind fountain. She comes down between Dick and Rudolfo)

I am forever your slave. How can I serve you?

Dick

(Pointing to Marietta)

Your boy was just so tall.

Rudolfo

Perhaps, yes.

Dick

As I remember, this young lady is not unlike Rafaello?

Marietta

Oh I see, I see!

Dick

You will take this girl. Give her proper clothing and announce that your son has returned.

Marietta

Oh excellente! Excellente! I kiss your hands, your cloak! But your cheek -- no, never!

Rudolfo

I no understand.

Dick

There are reasons why she must remain unknown in New Orleans for the present! She shall be your son!

Marietta

Father!

(Attempts to embrace Rudolfo)

Padre mio!

Rudolfo

But a girl - a my son?

Dick

Come, you said you would serve me!

Rudolfo

But -- but --

Marietta

It is arrange! I am your son. Come, padre mio! Come to the theatre of the Marionette. Oh la la! You shall see -- I will -- pulla da marionette -- I will eata spaghetti -- I will even like-a da monk!

Rudolfo

But -- but --

Dick

You shall be well repaid, Rudolfo.

Marietta

Yes, yes. My gold is almost gone, but my friend has plenty. You shall be well paid. Come, I must take off this dress.

Dick

Here! You may have my cloak.

(Goes to fountain, gets cloak and puts it about MARIETTA)

Marietta

Oh, you are good! Come, padre mio!

(Starts toward L.U., stops RUDOLFO)

Oh, one moment!

(She runs back to Dick)

Oh, be not afraid -- I will not kiss the cheek -- listen -- closely -- now --

(She sings the dream melody)

AH, SWEET MYSTERY OF LIFE IN VAIN I SEEK THEE,

AH! TO KNOW AT LAST THE SECRET OF IT ALL,

ALL THE LONGING, LA LA LA!

(She pauses and looks at him expectantly)

Dick

(Puzzled)

Well?

Marietta

Can you not finish my melody?

Dick

Finish it?

Marietta

You see that is a dream melody! I hear it -- so many times when I got to sleep -- and it has been foretold me, that only he shall claim my heart, who will have power to sing the answer to it!

Dick

Then why ask me?

Marietta

Oh, of course you cannot. Being only my friend you would not even try, eh?

Dick

I'd most assuredly will not try.

Marietta

No, of course, I could not expect -- You will not even try --Come, padre mio --

(She goes out humming meldoy)

You will not even try?

Dick

No.

Marietta

No -- come, padre mio.

("Ah, Sweet Mystery -- etc.")

(Song dies away as CAPTAIN DICK stands listening)

Dick

Try! I should say not --

(He starts to sing it - on exit. Goes off angrily, R.U.)

(As he exits, SILAS and LIZETTE reenter R.U. She is weeping noisily)

Silas

Sh! What are you laughing at?

Lizette

I am not laughing.

Silas

What is it then?

Lizette

I'm such a nervous woman.

Silas

I wouldn't cry that way then if I were you.

Lizette

You can cry any way you like. This is my way. I can't help it if I'm historical.

Silas

Historical -- Are you so old as that?

Lizette

Old! I'm only, only --

Silas

Better hurry, Madam. Every minute makes it worse.

Lizette

I should say it does -- Here I am verging on -- twenty, and would you believe me, I have never had a proposal.

Silas

I would believe you.

Lizette

At the boat -- where we landed, there was scores of men following each girl -- all but me. What's the matter with my face?

Silas

I don't know. Who did it?

Lizette

The King guaranteed husbands. If he hadn't I would never have come away so far from home and mother -- and lugging this heavy Casquette.

Silas

(Eagerly)

It is heavy then.

(He reaches for it)

Lizette

Hands off.

Silas

Does it jingle when you shake it?

Lizette

Of course, there's gold in it -- Would you marry me for my gold?

Silas

For what other reason --- I -- I love you.

Lizette

You?! Why?

Silas

I don't know -- it just came over me.

Lizette

You are nothing but a servant.

Silas

Ah, but my bondage will not, cannot, last forever. I but await my opportunity. In the meanwhile I am in training.

Lizette

In training?

Silas

Yes, to be a pirate.

Lizette

A pirate. Mercy! Remember I'm a nervous woman.

Silas

You see. My arm is already tabooded.

Lizette

Tabooded!

Silas

Yes. See! I have the name of Bras Pique tabooded here with indelicate ink.

Lizette

Are you Bras Pique?

Silas

Not yet. But some day -- with the help of Captain Dick -- we will scuttle his vessel. It will be my opportunity. I will take his place -- I shall buccaneer all over the seas. Bras Pique the Second!

Lizette

Who would have thought it, a man like you.

Silas

Ah! But I am not what I seem.

No. 6 - SONG - "I WISH I WAS ANYBODY ELSE BUT ME"

Silas

I MUST HAVE BEEN CHANGED IN MY CRADLE,

BY MY NURSE OR SOMETHING LIKE,

FOR I AIN'T TURNED OUT WHAT I OUGHT TO BE

AND NOTHING SEEMS TO BE RIGHT!

Lizette

MON DOO! PARBLEW! MON CHAIR!

THAT IS A SAD AFFAIR!

Silas

(Takes HER by the arm, goes R.)

SO SOMETIMES I GET TO DREAMIN'

AS A FELLER WILL YOU SEE,

OF THE KIND OF A SORT OF A "ME" I'D BE,

IF I WASN'T THE ME THAT'S ME!

Lizette

MON DOO! PARBLEW! YOU SPEAK,

THE WORD, AH! TRES TRAGIQUE!

REFRAIN

I WISH I WAS ANYBODY ELSE BUT ME - ANYBODY ELSE WOULD DO

IT'S AWFUL DISCOURAGING BEING ME, WHEN I OUGHT TO BE YOU OR YOU!

I TRIES TO SMILE, BUT WHAT'S THE USE? IT HITS ME WITH A SLAM!

WHEN I GET TO THINKING OF THE MAN I'D BE, IF I WASN'T WHO I AM!

(Dance - SILAS and LIZETTE exit)

(SILAS has twisted up his drooping moustache and he struts about with all the braggadocin of a pirate - dances with LIZETTE - following - at end of dance, exits R.)

(After SILAS and LIZETTE exit, enter GOVERNOR and SECRETARY from convent)

Governor

Upon my word, Florence, you are very irritating, Just as I think my work is over for the day, you come to me with this tale of a missing Caasquette girl.

Secretary

But, your Excellency!

Governor

How do you know there is one missing?

Secretary

While your Excellency was asleep at the Convent --

Governor

Sleep! I never sleep -- I'm a servant of the people.

Secretary

While your Excellency was as -- I mean resting, - at the Convent - there came three survivors from the Italian vessel captured by Bras Pique!

(Enter ETIENNE, R.U.)

Governor

Survivors! Why survivors!

Etienne

That's what I say, why survivors?

Secretary

They were marooned and escaped. They bring dispatches from the King of France.

Governor

(To Secretary)

Take off my hat when you mention the King.

(Secretary takes off LIEUTENANT- GOVERNOR'S hat and replaces it)

Etienne

(To Florence)

Of what matters are these dispatches?

Secretary

(Looking at papers)

A command to the Lieutenant-Governor to immediately return one Marietta d'Altena to France from whence she has escaped, having bribed a casket girl to give her the place.

Governor

And of course it must be this important one who is missing?

Etienne

The Countess d'Altena! Why, that is one of the richest and most powerful families in Italy. We must find her ---

Governor

And of course something disagreeable is promised me if I fail to find this maid?

Secretary

You will fall under the King's displeasure.

Governor

Dear me -- dear me -- the things I shall have to answer for when the Governor returns.

Etienne

(Significantly)

If he returns -- I do not think he will.

Governor

Hush! I'll not listen.

Etienne

You must listen, Father. You hope to benefit by my plans. You must not shirk the responsibility.

Governor

Well - well?

Etienne

My men have marooned the Governor on the Isle of Pines. When the right moment comes, we shall announce Louisiana to be a Republic - we shall throw off allegiance to France ----

Governor

Hush! Hush! This is no place -- besides -- I'll not take the responsibility -- I'll have enough to answer for -- if your schemes fall through.

Etienne

(Laughing)

You should get a whipping boy, Father.

Governor

What's that?

Etienne

A whipping boy such as they had in the old times, to take upon themselves the punishments of royalty! Ha, ha! Just the things for you.

(Goes into house, L.)

Governor

Did I not tell you to search every law and precedent to make things easier for me?

Secretary

Yes, Excellency.

Governor

Then why have I never heard of this most convenient instituion of the whipping boy?

Secretary

The law is old, obsolete, I think.

Governor

I reinstate it. You shall find a whipping boy for me - if you don't I'll make you my whipping boy.

(Governor exits R.U.)

Secretary

Oh dear, oh dear, where shall I get a whipping boy?

(Runs up and down stage as if looking for something)

(SILAS enters 1st E.R.)

Silas

(Entering)

Have you lost something?

Secretary

I'm about to lose my position as Secretary to the Governor.

Silas

Secretary to the Governor.

(Aside)

This may be my opportunity. If you lose that position will you speak a word for me?

Secretary

What! Are you looking for something to do?

Silas

Yes.

Secretary

Then thank your lucky stars you met me.

Silas

It must be easy -- some sort of a sitting-down position.

Secretary

Providence led you to me.

Silas

I know. It's a great chance for you. I'm a rising American --

Secretary

In the name of the Lieutenant-Governor I offer you the magnificent post of Whipping Boy.

Silas

I don't like the name. I refuse it.

Secretary

Wait! Wait! Let me read to you the prerequisites which go with the post of Whipping Boy.

(Searches in book)

"The Whipping Boy shall receive three suite of fine marquisette embellished with gold braid."

Silas

Real gold?

Secretary

Eighteen karat. "He shall dine at the royal table and shall first taste of each delicate viand set before his royal master."

Silas

Wait -- why first?

Secretary

In case the food be poisoned.

Silas

And you call that a fine position?

Secretary

Oh, but that will never happen.

Silas

I don't want the position. It sounds almost dangerous.

Secretary

But listen -- I have not read all.

Silas

You've read enough.

Secretary

"His wife shall sit next the Grand Marshall."

Silas

I don't know about that. What kind of a person is this Grand Marshall -- Maybe I couldn't trust my wife. I don't think much of this position - Let's call it off.

Secretary

"In addition the Whipping Boy shall receive the sum of ten thousand francs per annum."

Silas

(Who has been going off)

Ten thousand francs. Well, maybe I could just pretend to do that tasting you spoke of. How often does this annum business come around?

Secretary

You may draw on the Treasury at your need.

Silas

Somebody's going to wake me up in a minute.

Secretary

Do you accept?

Silas

Do I accept? It is the opportunity I have been waiting for.

Secretary

Then present yourself at the palace ---

Silas

Wait! I have a sudden thought. What is it I have to do for all this?

Secretary

Oh, a mere detail; you accept the responsibilities of the family.

Silas

But suppose I have no family. I can't guarantee that.

Secretary

Not your family. The Governor's family.

Silas

Support the Governor's family on ten thousand francs per - what is it?

Secretary

Oh no, no! You simply -- You see, if anyone of his family should commit any crime - er, I mean little discretion - you answer for it in your person.

Silas

In my person! That's where the whipping comes in. Thank you for wasting my time. That's not the kind of a position I'm looking for.

Secretary

Oh, there'll be no whipping, I'll promise you!

Silas

There'll be no whipping, I promise you. Good day.

(Exits R.1. followed SECRETARY: ad lib)

(ETIENNE enters for a house L. followed by ADAH)

Adah

Etienne - Etienne, Master!

Etienne

Well!

Adah

You've been away so long ---

Etienne

Only a month.

Adah

They might know, they might suspect.

Etienne

Suspect what?

Adah

That you are Bras Pique!

Etienne

You say that so often, my dear, I shall begin to believe you are right.

Adah

You no longer care for me, you no longer love me - am I not the same?

Etienne

You give me too warm a welcome, try indifference for once it may attract. There, there, Adah I was only joking - forgive me - But love should be free, you make it a bondage. Au revoir, Mademoiselle.

(Exits R.2.)

Adah

Ah 'tis true - it is as I feared! He no longer loves me - he has wearied of me.

No. 7 - SONG - "SOUTHERN MOON"

(After song - ADAH re-enters house)

(SILAS enters from R. - he throws off his cloak and his hat - throws them on fountain rim - he struts about. As he is doing this - some GIRLS enter R. and stand looking at him fearfully)

Nanette

(Aside)

Do you think he can be Bras Pique?

Fanchon

'Twould be like his daring. See! He wears the red bonnet.

(To Silas)

Monsieur, have you letters on your arm?

Silas

Ah ha! You have been reading my letters.

(He pulls up his sleeve displaying arm with tattooed letters)

Girl

(Shrinking from him)

'Tis he! 'Tis Bras Pique!

Silas

(Flourishing knives)

I've killed many thousands of mosquitoes.

Girls

Mosquitoes!

Silas

Mousquetiers, I mean. Listen! Hist! I am Bras Pique!

Girls

(Frightened)

Oh!

Silas

Wait! Fear me not! I am a gentle creature with the ladies. But - on the seas - I wade in blood!

Girls

Ugh! Silas Pull twenty fathoms deep lie dead man's bones! And in my treasure chests are gold and jewels. Jewels to adorn pretty maids like you -- and you -- and you!

(GIRLS frightened, run up L.)

Silas

Ah ha! Take care! Beware!

(He flourishes his knives)

In dead of night my pirate band shall come to carry off to coral isles - all the pretty maids of New Orleans.

Girls

Oh help! Bras Pique! Help!

(They run off L. and R.1. and U.)

(Enter LIZETTE)

Lizette

Well, I'm ready to entertain your proposal, young man.

Silas

My proposal! Caramba! Sapristi!

(He flourishes knives at her)

Lizette

Mercy! Remember I'm a nervous woman!

Silas

Leave me, woman, leave me!

Lizette

But I can't get a husband. They're all given out and --

Silas

Peace, woman. I have made my choice. I see my opportunity! I shall be wedded to nothing but the sea!

Lizette

Mercy! The sea's so wet! Anyway somebody's got to marry me!

Silas

That's his problem! Leave me, woman! Leave me! Do you hear! Caramba! Sapristi.

(He approaches her fiercely, showing his teeth)

Lizette

Mercy! Help!

(She starts to run and drops casquette. It jingles)

Silas

Wait! I'll give you one chance, woman, the casquette. Open it.

Lizette

I can't. The King's commands --

Silas

Open it - I say! If its contents are what I surmise, you shall be Madam Buccaneer!

(LIZETTE with trembling fingers starts to open casquette)

Ah ha! Gold! Gold!

Lizette

I wouldn't do it, only I'm dying of curiosity myself!

(Opens casquette. Takes out - paper -- reads:)

"A grant of land on the Mi-si-si-pi River!"

Silas

Tut! Tut! Get to -- the gold! The gold!

Lizette

(Hastily throwing other papers and things out, eagerly feels in bottom of casquette and brings up three or four gold pieces)

Can this be all!

Silas

What a stingy king! So long.

Lizette

Wait! Wait! You promised....

Silas

Well, you see. I forgot -- about the tobacco -- you know every man who would a Casquette girl must deposit a hundred pounds of tobacco at the storehouse.

Lizette

And you have none?

Silas

Not a pipe full.

Lizette

Here -- take the gold. Buy the tobacco. Hist! Not a word to anyone - I will await you at the storehouse.

Silas

That's right, you wait -- Don't stir until I come for you!

Lizette

Not a word to anyone. Hurry, buy the tobacco. I will be yours, my bethrottled!

(Lizette goes off U.R.)

Silas

She did it herself! It's her own fault. But it's my fault if she ever sees me again.

(He puts gold in pocket and starts toward R)

Now, where did I put my cloak?

(Goes to fountain to get it)

(Sound of voices and cries off L)

Ah! Doubtless the girls returning to hear my merry tales of piracy!

(LIZETTE rushes in R)

Lizette

Oh Si, my Si! The girls have told the guards you are Bras Pique, the pirate! They are coming to arrest you!

Silas

Arrest me! My cloak! My hat! Where are they? Run, find my master -- Find Captain Dick. He'll tell them I'm no pirate.

(Shouts off stage getting louder)

(Business of rushing about to find hiding place)

Lizette

You can't hide here.

(THEY rush up stage. LIZETTE hides SILAS in fountain)

(PEOPLE run in shouting: "Bras Pique! Drown him! Hang him!")

(ETIENNE coming in through crowd)

Etienne

Here! Here! What does all this mean!

(EVERYONE stops shouting)

Nanette

Oh, Monsieur! Bras Pique the pirate!

Fanchon

He was here. We saw him!

Etienne

Nonsense! Let us have no more talk of pirates! Listen --

(Music)

It's the Italians -- Come! Sing! Dance! Be merry! Or I shall think have landed on the shores of some Yankee town and not my gay New Orleans!

(Music of organ comes nearer and FELICE runs in)

Felice

What do you think? Rudolfo has found his little son!

(ALL rush to entrnace and great RUDOLFO as he enters with his DAUGHTERS and MARIETTA)

All

Vive the Italians! Vive Rudolfo!

(MARIETTA comes down and sings)

"SING! SING!"

(At the close of song:)

Etienne

(Coming down to Musicians)

Ah, fine song, Rudolfo, and well sung! Who is this lad, your son?

Rudolfo

Yes my leetle son-a, she has returned.

Etienne

(To Marietta)

Ah, my little lad, so you have returned to your padre.

Marietta

(To Etienne)

Oh, yes, Monsieur. Now I like-a to pull-a de Marionetta. I like de spaghetti. I even like-a de monk.

(Runs over to Rudolfo)

Etienne

Ah ha, the lad has wit.

(Bus. enter CAPTAIN DICK, L.U.)

Dick

Ah, Rudolfo, Rafaello.

Etienne

(To Dick)

You know the lad?

Marietta

(To Etinne)

Ah, Captain Dick, he is my friend. He find poor Rafaello to be make roast pig by the Indians. He save me --he bring me back to Padre mio. I kiss his hand, his cloak -- his cheek.

(Attempts to kiss Captain Dick)

Dick

(Holding HER off)

Never mind -- that will do --

(The GOVERNOR and SECRETARY enter from R.U.)

(EVERYONE bows - CITIZENS take off hats to the Governor)

Governor

Dear me, dear me.

(Coming down C.)

I give it up! I give it up! How can I look the Casquette Girls over to find the missing one, if someone doesn't bring them to me!

(To Secretary)

Here -- call the people to order!

Secretary

Silence! Attention all! The King of France offers ten thousand francs --

All

Ten thousand francs?

Secretary

The King of France offers ten thousand francs for the return of Marietta, Contessa d'Altena, -

All

A Contessa?

Secretary

Who in the disguise of a Casquette Girl escaped from France. Said Marietta d'Altena is small, dark and has a voice of rare beauty, is continually singing an unfinished melody. Here follow a lot of notes.

(Attempts to sing melody in cracked voice)

(The PEOPLE ALL laugh)

Etienne

Allow me --

(Takes paper from SECRETARY)

LA LA LA LA LA.

(Hums Marietta's dream melody)

All

(Ad lib)

The melody! The haunting melody. The Casquette girl must be here. The fountain - ten thousand francs! We will find her!

(All rish to fountain)

Lizette

There goes Silas!

All

'Tis Bras Pique! Bras Pique! Seize him! Catch him!

(TWO MEN seize SILAS - He is struggling to get away - they force him to his knees)

Bras Pique!

Silas

No - no! Don't! I was only playing a pirate to please the girls. I am no pirate.

(Rushing over to the Governor)

O, save me! Save me! I'll do anything -- I will be your Whipping Boy. O, save me, Governor, save me!

Governor

Let him alone, he is my Whipping Boy.

All

Whipping Boy?

Dick

(To Governor)

Why, this is my man, Silas.

Silas

No longer. The yoke of servitude - I throw it off. This is my opportunity!

Blake

(Entering from R.U. coming down, seeing Marietta)

Well, by all that's holy, this is the runaway Casquette girl.

All

What?

Marietta

(To Rudolfo)

No - no, Padre mio --

Dick

(To Rudolfo)

Take her away.

Rudolfo

(Frightened)

No. No. No Casquette. This lady is my son.

Etienne

(To Rudolfo)

Ah -- so this lady is your son, eh! I thought the voice too sweet for a lad. Marietta, Contessa d'Altena!

(ALL bow)

(Music cue for:)

FINALE

(During this Finale DICK keeps urging Rudolfo to get away with Marietta. A sound of convent bells heard off. ETIENNE, GOVERNOR, and all the CITIZENS turn and kneel down at the convent gate, while organ is playing)

(DICK urges RUDOLFO to make his escape with MARIETTA. RUDOLFO and MARIETTA exit L.U. DICK and his FOLLOWERS cover their retreat stopping ETIENNE and the PEOPLE at the point of their guns)

Etienne

'TIS SHE, THE CASKET GIRL,

Marietta

NO, NO, NO, NO! I AM

RUDOLFO'S FIGLIA!

Etienne

FLOWER OF ITALY'S NOBILITY

TO THE PALACE, COME WITH ME!

Marietta

NO, NO, MY FRIEND!

Dick

PROTECT YOUR SON RUDOLFO

COME, MAN, SPEAK UP.

Rudolfo

YES.

Marietta

OH, PADRE! OH, PADRE DEAR

Rudolfo

YES, SHE IS MY SON, YES YES!

SHE IS MY SON!

Dick

PROTECT YOUR SON -

COME, SPEAK UP! SHE HIS

DAUGHTER, SHE HIS SON.

Etienne and Chorus

SHE SAYS HE IS HIS SON,

THIS GIRL HIS SON WHAT FUN!

Marietta

PADRE, MIO PADRE,

OH, PADRE MIO PADRE!

Governor

DEAR ME, DEAR ME, MORE

TROUBLE! THAT'S NOT FAIR!

Adah

'TIS SHE, THE CASKET

GIRL 'TIS CLEAR!

Marietta

OH LA! PAPA! 'TIS A VERY

PRETTY FIX, COMME CA, OH LA! PAPA!

WE WILL GET AWAY FROM THEM PA LA! STAY

NEAR! MY DEAR! IN YOUR LOVING ARMS

ENFOLD ME HERE! DON'T FORSAKE ME, STAY BESIDE ME

SAFELY HIDE ME.

Marietta

DON'T FORSAKE ME, PADRE MIO DEAR!

NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO.

Marietta

NO. DON'T FORSAKE ME - STAY BESIDE

Adah

'TIS SHE 'TIS SHE SHE'S CASKET GIRL! 'TIS SHE.

Dick

HIS SON WHAT FUN COME PROTECT

YOUR SON, PACK UP, MY MAN! HIS SON

Rudolfo

SI! SI! SI! SI! YES, I SWEAR ME, COME, COME, COME, COME,

Governor

DEAR ME! DEAR ME! MORE TROUBLE NOW. THAT'S NOT FAIR!

DEAR ME! SHE HIS SON WHAT FUN!!

Marietta

ME. IN YOUR LOVING ARMS

Adah

'TIS SHE 'TIS SHE THE CASKET GIRL YES 'TIS SHE 'TIS

Dick

WHAT FUN! COME, PROTECT YOUR SON, COME, PROTECT

YOUR SPEAK UP, MY MAN,

Rudolfo

SI! SI! MIO FIGLIA! FIGLIA DEAR, SI, SI, SI, SI,

Etienne

WITH ME! COME, COME, OH - COME WITH ME, TO THE CASTLE

Governor

DEAR ME - MORE TROUBLE THAT'S NOT FAIR, OH, DEAR ME DEAR-

Chorus

THE CASKET - GIRL IS SHE, YES 'TIS SHE 'TIS

Adah

SHE! 'TIS SHE!

Dick

SON! YOUR SON!

Rudolfo

SI! I SWEAR!

Etienne

COME! WITH ME!

Governor

ME! DEAR ME!

CHO! SHE! 'TIS SHE!

Marietta, Adah, Dick, and Rudolfo

COME SIR, YOU ARE MASTER HERE, TO HOLD THE MAID

YOU'LL TRY.

Etienne, Governor

WAIT A WHILE!

Chorus, Marietta, Adah, Dick, Rudolfo, Etienne, and Governor

THE KING COMMANDS BE ON YOUR HEAD HIS

LET ME THINK BY AND BY

BY AND BY.

Marietta, Adah, Dick, Adah, Rudolfo, and Etienne

VENGEANCE WILL BE DIRE AND DREAD!

Governor

WAIT A WHILE LET ME THINK BY AND BY

Chorus, Marietta, Adah, and Dick

COME, MAN, SPEAK UP! PROTECT YOUR SON - PROTECT YOUR

Rudolfo

MIO FIGLIO MIO FIGLIO CARE MIO, CARO MIO, CARO

Etienne

HIS VENGEANCE

Governor

WAIT A WHILE, LET ME

Chorus

BY AND BY LET HIM THINK BY AND BY!

Marietta

NOT FORSAKE ME NOT! PADRE! PADRE!

Adah

MAN BE ON YOUR HEAD!

(WITH CHO. SOPRANO)

Dick

SON, SPEAK UP, SPEAK UP! COME, MAN, COME MAN.

Rudolfo

MIO CARO, MIO CARO MIO!

Etienne

WILL BE DIRE AND DREAD! NO! NO!

Governor

THINK, BY AND BY, AND BY! WAIT A WHILE - WAIT A WHILE!

Italians

SHE'S HIS FIGLIO - SHE'S HIS FILGIO TO---

Chorus

NO! NO!

Marietta

OH, PADRE! PADRE!

Dick

SPEAK UP COME MAN COME SPEAK UP! COME MAN.

Rudolfo

CARO FIGLIO MIO OH NO - RISSIMO!

Etienne

NO, NO! NO, NO! COME, SIR YOU'RE MASTER HERE NO!

Governor

LET ME! LET ME THINK WAIT AWHILE WAIT AWHILE

Italians

TAKE HIS SON YOU WILL NOT DARE, WE'LL FIGHT TO SEE

FAIR PLAY, SHE'S HIS

Chorus

TO THE CASTLE, TO THE CASTLE AWAY! A-WAY! FIGLIO NO!

Marietta

PADRE! OH! STAY NEAR

Rudolfo

CARO FIGLIO CARO FIGLIO MI - O!

Etienne

NO! NO! COME SIR, YOUR MASTER HERE.

Governor

LET ME LET ME THINK, WAIT A-WHILE!

Italians

TAKE HIS SON, YOU - TO THE CASTLE - TAKE HER AWAY!

Chorus

TO THE CASTLE.

Marietta, Adah, Dick, Rudolfo, Etienne, Governor, Italians, Chorus

THE KING OF FRANCE IS FAR A-WAY SCARELY KNOW JUST WHAT TO SAY!

Marietta, Adah, Dick, Rudolfo, Etienne

THESE RUFFIANS HERE ON EV'RY SIDE

Governor, Italians

TO TAKE HIS SON, YOU WILL NOT DARE

Chorus, Marietta

MIO PADRE AH.

Adah, Dick, Rudolfo, Etienne

NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO! NO!

Governor

WITH RUDOLFO LET HER HIDE WAIT AWHILE

Italians

YES, SHE'S HIS FIGLIO SHE'S HIS

Chorus

NO!

Marietta

AH

Adah, Dick

COME MAN, SPEAK UP, COME MAN COME SPEAK UP

Rudolfo

CARO, FIGLIO MIO OH CAR - RISSIMO!

Etienne

NO! NO! NO! NO! NO! COME, SIR, YOU'RE MASTER HERE!

Governor

WAIT AWHILE LET ME LET ME THINK WAIT AWHILE

Italians

FIGLIO TO TAKE HIS SON YOU WILL NOT DARE.

WE'LL FIGHT TO SEE FAIR PLAY SHE'S

Chorus

NO TO THE CASTLE TO THE CASTLE AWAY A-WAY! HIS

Marietta, Adah

MAN!

Dick

SPEAK UP! SPEAK UP! SPEAK UP!

Rudolfo

CARO FIGLIO CARO FIGLIO CARO

Etienne

NO! NO, NO, NO! COME SIR! COME SIR! (3) FIGLIO

Governor

WAIT AWHILE LET ME LET ME LET ME LET ME

Italians

FIGLIO SHE'S HIS FIGLIO! TO TAKE HIS SON YOU WILL DARE,

WE'LL TO THE CASTLE TO THE CASTLE WE'LL

FIGHT, WE'LL FIGHT

Marietta

AH... AH...

Adah

TAKE HER A - WAY.

Dick

OR FIGHT FOR FAIR PLAY FIGHT FOR FAIR PLAY!

Rudolfo

CARO FIGLIO AH CARISSI - NO!

Etienne

COME, THE KING COMMANDS BE YOUR HEAD

BE ON YOUR HEAD!

Governor

LET ME THINK PLEASE, LET ME THINK!

Italians

SEE FAIR PLAY WE'LL FIGHT WE'LL FIGHT TO SEE FAIR PLAY

WE'LL FIGHT WE'LL FIGHT --

Chorus

TO CASTLE TAKE HER AWAY TAKE HER AWAY AWAY -

AWAY TAKE HER AWAY!

Marietta, Adah

GONE! GONE! GONE!

Dick

GONE! GONE! GONE!

Rudolfo and Etienne

GONE! GONE! GONE!

Governor and Italians

FREE! FREE! FREE!

Chorus

GONE! GONE! GONE!

CURTAIN

End of Act I

PROPERTY PLOT

ACT I

1 old-fashioned lantern (NIGHT WATCHMAN)

1 street lamp on post

Small ladder

Large keys on ring

Booths or tray for VENDORS OF FLOWERS, etc. (See Varratt)

Candles, figs, oranges, parrakeets, sugar cane, confections,

etc., cakes, pastries

Donkey with panniers of flowers

Brooms (for STREET SWEEPERS)

Knife-grinders' outfit, knives for 2 PIRATES

Pistol, holster, belt (CAPTAIN DICK)

Muskets (for RANGERS)

Bundle of letters

24 caskets (CASQUETTE GIRLS)

Knives, cutlass (SILAS)

Basket (RAGPICKER)

Official document

Convent bell (offstage)

Church organ (offtsage)

Scroll (TOWN CRIER)

1 umbrella (to hold over GOVERNOR)

1 fan

Official papers

1 record book

1 tattoo Bras Pique (SILAS)

ACT II Scene 1

Marionette stage, marionettes (1 Pierrot & Pierrette)

Practical tamborine (on wall)

1 bench

1 stool (outside window)

Box or stool (outside window)

1 feather duster

ACT II Scene 2

Furniture for ballroom (period - Baratt)

Pack of playing cards

Dice

Small platform (auction block to be pushed on)

24 castenets

1 dog whistle (GOVERNOR)

1 whistle (SILAS)

1 Bras Pique tattoo (ETIENNE)

1 whistle (offstage)

Pistols for PIRATES

Gambling table (dice)

ACT II

Scene 1

Front Scene in Marionetta Theatre. Dark room with doors Right and Left. Centre of stage the Marionette stage with the figures of Pierrot and Pierette, Harlequin, etc., upon it. There is a little curtained window at Right of Centre.

DISCOVERED: At rise, RUDOLFO in front of platform instructing MARIETTA, who is on stage, how to pull the wires for the Marionettes.

No. 10 SONG --Rudolfo

TURN-A LIKE DAT-A PIERRETTE, JUST SO,

BOW TO DE LADY SIGNOR PIERROT,

SANTA MARIA! NO! NO! NO! NO!

Marietta

How he is stupid, your friend Pierrot.

(A little dance of the Marionettes done very awkwardly while RUDOLFO stands aside beating time)

II

COME, DAT IS BETTER, SIGNOR PIERROT

TAKE DE LADY IN ARMS LIKE SO?

(Two figures in attempt to embrace, fall in a heap)

SANTA MARIA! NO! NO! NO! NO!

Marietta

How! He is crazy, your friend Pierrot!

(Dance again, ending in a furious jumble of legs and arms, RUDOLFO tearing his hair)

Rudolfo

It is alaways the same-a thing! You begin-a to learn-a de Marionettes, and you make-a it all the same joke!

Marietta

That's the point, padre mio! All the world's a joke! Oh, how I am happy for the first time in my life! I laugh!

Rudolfo

You are happy because you make-a three men miserable!

(MARIETTA takes tambourine from wall and practices throwing and catching it, dancing gaily about room as he talks)

First me! I say to the peoples, my son-a she has returned. Then sudden you say -- No more boy's dress. I want be myself! Then for me to crack my brain to explain my sudden daughter!

Marietta

A daughter is best, Padre mio! It brings the customers! Now your theatre is crowded every night. How many costumes you have rented for the Quadroon Ball? They all come to see Marietta!

Rudolfo

Then my good-a Capitaine Dick - and Monsieur Etienne, the son-a of His Excellency -- Now you flirt with both!

Marietta

(Suddenly pausing in her dancing about)

Oh, Padre mio - I think I have my song --

(She sings dream song)

"OH, SWEET MYSTERY OF LIFE!"

Rudolfo

That song! Make-a me to go crazy!

Marietta

Oh, but try it. Padre mio -- Maybe you can finish him -- Then I love you, oh so desperately -- like fire!

Rudolfo

Santa Maria forbid! We must practice some more with the marionettes - stop this talk about a songs.

Marietta

I will not practice any more. I am going to rest too - like-a dez marionettes - they never do no work themselves. Always somebody have to make them move.

(She exits. RUDOLFO follows)

(Have PREMIER DANCERS enter dressed as Marionettes and do a dance. After dance enter)

Etienne

(Look about, Sees no one about and call)

Oh, Marietta.

Marietta

(Enter)

Ah, Monsieur, it is more than kind that you should so often visit the house of poor Rudolfo and his unworthy daughter.

Etienne

Come, Mademoiselle, have you not tired of his masquerade?

Marietta

Masquerade?

Etienne

These mean surroundings are not fitting for you!

Marietta

I was never so happy -- I mean, I am used to it!

Etienne

Come - why not announce your rank? You only postpone the inevitable day. At any moment your father will arrive from Italy and think how shall we account for your lodging here?

Marietta

Ha! Ha! When the illustrious, the Count d'Altena arrives, you will see your mistake. How he will rave! What, this little brown maid, this child of the people my daughter?" He will think you are crazy, yes.

Etienne

Oh well, I know there is no use trying to persuade you.

Marietta

Still you try.

Etienne

I give in for the present. I have come for a different purpose. I want you to come to the Quadroon Ball tonight.

Marietta

But I cannot - I have told you. Captain Dick he say no, it is no place for a very good girl like me.

Etienne

Captain Dick knows nothing of our customs. Many of the finest women in New Orleans will be there -- masked, of course. So shall you!

Marietta

Captain Dick, he is my friend. He say no! It is so naughty, that ball, he will not go himself!

Etienne

Did he say that -- Strange! Adah - my own Adah has deserted me tonight to go with him!

Marietta

What! Captain Dick will go with Adah? Wait, I will go also.

(Going towards door L.)

Yes, I laid down the law to Rudolfo -- and Captain Dick -- I will go --

Etienne

With me!?

Marietta

Mais non -- with myself! (Exits door L.)

Etienne

(Follows her to door)

She is a witch! What puppets we are, the strongest of us can be pulled about by a little weak woman like that.

No. 11. SONG -- "YOU MARRY A MARIONETTE"

Etienne

(During the song he takes one of the Marionettes and setting it upon table, sings to it)

1

NOW WHY SHOULD A MAN WHO HAS COURAGE TO FACE

GOD, MAN AND THE DEVIL, ALL THREE,

GIVE IN TO A BUNDLE OF SATIN AND LACE?

THE ANSWER IS SIMPLE AS SIMPLE CAN BE!

FOR WE MEN ARE BUT PUPPETS, AFTER ALL

AS WE LAUGH OR WE SIGH OR WE SING:

YO-HO, YO-HO, YO-HO!

IF WE CREEP OR WE CRAWL, IF WE STAND OR WE FALL,

YOU MAY GAMBLE SOME WOMAN IS PULLING THE STRING!

REFRAIN

OH, A MAN IS A MAN, DO WHAT HE CAN,

WHATEVER HIS BREED OR BIRTH!

AND A MAID IS A MAID AND SHE ISN'T AFRAID

OF THE BIGGEST MAN ON EARTH!

SO IF YOU'RE A FOOL AND EXPECT TO RULE

THE WOMAN YOU'RE PLANNING TO GET,

THEN BY THE OLD HARRY, BE SURE WHEN YOU MARRY

YOU MARRY A MARIONETTE,

MY BOY,

YES, MARRY A MARIONETTE!

(At finish of song, ETIENNE goes to door R. and starts to exit. ADAH suddenly confronts him, closing door, stands with back to it, glaring at Etienne)

Adah

So! You are here again!

Etienne

(Coolly)

And you also!

Adah

You - you love this girl -- you no longer love me --

Etienne

Oh come -- come -- Love -- that's a large word.

Adah

(Moves to L.)

You have asked her to go to the ball?

Etienne

(Opening door)

I have! And I told her to come early that she might see the sale of those slaves who have displeased their master by boring them with jealousy!!

Adah

You dare not sell me!

Etienne

(Sarcastically)

Sell you! Not while you are so gentle, so sweet, so confiding, so trustful! Ha! Ha!

Adah

Etienne!

Etienne

Sell you? My sweet, never jealous companion. Never think it.

(Going out door R.)

Good-bye! Good-bye!

Adah

(Running to window)

Etienne! Etienne!

(Buries her head on windowsill)

(CAPTAIN DICK enters from curtains, goes over to door R., look out, turns to Adah - touches her on shoulder)

Dick

Adah!

Adah

Etienne!

(She turns, grabbing DICK, thinking it is Etienne)

(MARIETTA enters from L.)

Marietta

Oh - I - don't let me disturb you.

Adah

I thought -- Oh -- let me go.

(ADAH runs out door R. DICK embarrassed)

Dick

She thought I was Monsieur Grandet!

Marietta

And I think you are Monsieur Liar!

Dick

Don't be angry.

Marietta

Angry! Me! I! You may embrace anyone you please. What is it to me? I am in a beautiful mood. I have much to do before I prepare myself for the ball!

Dick

You promised me you would not go!

Marietta

(Sarcastically)

Me! I disremember! I am so forgetful. I disremember that promise.

Dick

But I'm going to hold you to it.

Marietta

(Taking feather duster, pushes it into CAPTAIN DICK's face)

Now look you, Captain Dick, consider, I have never had one - what you say - a good time in all my life.

(She sits on steps)

Dick

It is your own fault.

Marietta

My fault? Santa Maria! In Italy I was banished and sent away to a convent to learn to be a lady --

Dick

Where you should have stayed.

Marietta

Oh, my friend. Then you would never have seen me.

Dick

I could have survived. Your parents did exactly right. And I shall feel relieved when they come for you.

Marietta

Oh, very well, they will marry me to the old man so old, so ugly, with a long beard ---

Dick

We shall make it a condition of your safe return to France that they shall not compel you to marry.

Marietta

Your condition! Pooh! That's what they think of conditions. And you - how will you feel when poor Marietta is married to the old one with a beard? And no one will find her dream song. Have you tried it lately, Captain Dick?

Dick

I have not given it a single thought!

Marietta

(Goes to stool R.)

He has given it no thought! And this is my friend, my sworn friend! Monsieur Etienne he try like the mischief - and he is no friend!

(Enter RUDOLFO door L)

Dick

Ah, Rudolfo!

Rudolfo

Ah, Signor, you come in time. She drive-a me crazy.

Dick

She'd drive anyone crazy.

Rudolfo

How soon-a you think-a they come to take-a her away?

Dick

It will not be long, Rudolfo.

Marietta

(Jumps up)

What you think? Not long - and they smile. Barbara! Oh --

(Sits down and pretends to cry)

Dick

(Goes to Marietta)

Oh come! Come! I didn't mean to hurt you.

Rudolfo

Figlio mio, do not-a weep-a.

Marietta

No one love me. My padre, he does not love me!

Rudolfo

Oh yes, like-a my soul -- better than my daughters. Yes -- when you are good --

Marietta

I am always good. I like pulla de marionette-a! I like de spaghetti, I even like da monk. Not like Rafaelo damn poor Italiano. Still you do not love me.

Rudolfo

Ah, but yes, I love you!

Marietta

Capitaine Dick, he does not love me. -- Or do you?

Dick

I certainly do not!

Marietta

Oh terrible - miserable - my friend will not love me! (Pretending to cry)

Dick

I like you -- I like you very much.

Marietta

(Jumping up suddenly)

Like - ah, miserable -- you like potatoes!

(Xes up to L)

Dick

(Following Marietta)

Come, come, Marietta, don't cry, I'll try to - to more than like you!

Marietta

He will try! Oh, poor Marietta, he cannot love me, but he will try --

(Peeping to see affect)

Dick

If you'll stop crying, I'll do anything.

Marieta

Oh! He won't give me one friendly little kiss. Oh - oh --

Dick

I will if I must.

(Puts arms about her to kiss her)

Marietta

(Jumping away and laughing in his face)

Ha! Ha! Ha! Not tonight, my friend. Oh, you big stupid! Save your kisses for Adah!

(Exits door L)

Dick

(Watching after her. Turns angrily)

It's your fault, you spoil her.

Rudolfo

But -- but --

Dick

She should have been put in the care of the nuns. I have made a mistake allowing her freedom.

Rudolfo

I told you!

Dick

(Very angry)

You did not, no one told me. Besides how can one cage fire or quicksilver! She - is -- oh, how glad I will be when her parents come for her.

Rudolfo

(Sadly)

I cannot be glad, if they take her away - I --

Dick

Take her away! Oh well, it must be! And look you, Rudolfo, we are responsible for her. She must not go to the ball tonight.

Rudolfo

But certainly, I lock her up tight.

(MARIETTA seen listening from curtains)

Dick

Lock her up? Poor child - but this is her own fault -- yes, it must be --

(Goes towards door R)

Rudolfo

My daughter shall take away everything -- all her clothes. We will keep her safe.

Dick

You will be well rewarded, Rudolfo, you shall see!

(Goes out door R., followed by RUDOLFO)

Marietta

(Enters from behind curtains)

Lock me up! Oh, the miserable! No, no, if he have spoke nice, maybe then I not go. But lock me up! Right away -- quick I go!

(Goes to Marionette platform)

Come, Pierrot! You shall aid me. La - la - la!

(She draws curtains)

Rudolfo

(Coming in)

Never fear, Captain Dick, I'll keep her safe for you.

Dick

(Outside)

Not for me, stupid!

Rudolfo

Oh no, for her father!

(Xes to door L., calls)

Marietta! Marietta!

(No answer)

(Begins to hum dream melody)

"La! la! la! la!" Oh, the old fool, me!

(Sees drawn curtain)

Ah, she hides to tease-a her old padre.

(Goes over to curtains. Pulls them aside, looks in)

Not here! Ah, the window - perhaps!

(Turns to door L)

My cloak! My hat!

(CRAZIELLA brings them)

I lock all the doors. I go out and search for Marietta at once.

(He exits hurriedly out of door R. locks door after him)

Marietta

(Drawing curtains, laughing)

Oh ho! Signor Pierrot! I shall go to the ball! No! But he will go with Adah!

(MARIETTA comes down steps, dances to door L., finds it locked -- dances to door R., finds that also locked -- sees window -- goes to window, takes domino from stool in front of window, throws kisses to marionette on small stage and exits window)

CURTAIN

No. 12 INTERMELLO

End of Act II

Scene 1

ACT II

Scene 2

SCENE: The ballroom before the opening of the ball. A large room with pillars at L. into larger dancing room. Stairs centre. Balcony at back upstairs with large windows opening onto a veranda. Doors into room upstairs at R. Entrance from street in centre under balcony.

AT RISE: MEN are seated at tables dicing and playing cards. All elegant swaggering GENTLEMEN, full of life and excitement. Creole high society.

SONG

GAMBLING, GAMBLING, RACING, DICING,

LIFE'S A SORT OF GAMBLE IF YOU LOOK AT IT THAT WAY

WE HAVE NO TIME FOR MELANCHOLY

WE'RE VOTARIES OF MIRTH AND FOLLY.

NEW ORLEANS' JEUNESSE DORES.

Man

I'LL TAKE YOU.

Man

I'LL DOUBLE!

Man

I'M WITH YOU!

(THROWS DICE)

Man

IT'S YOURS!

All:

LOOK UP! BUCK UP! PAY! PAY! PAY! PAY!

II

GAMBLING, GAMBLING, RACING, DICING,

LIFE'S A SORT OF GAMBLE IF YOU LOOK AT IT THAT WAY

WE HAVE NO TIME FOR MELANCHOLY

WE'RE VOTARIES OF MIRTH AND FOLLY.

NEW ORLEANS' JEUNESSE DORES.

Man

MY COTTON!

Man

MY MISTRESS!

Man

I'LL TAKE YOU!

(THROWS DICE)

Man

YOU'VE WON!

All:

LOOK UP! BUCK UP! PAY! PAY! PAY!

(End of Men's Chorus - enter ETIENNE U.R. He is very gorgeously dressed - as are all the OTHERS. MEN spring up and salute him)

Men

Ah! Monsieur Etienne!

Men

Vive, Monsieur Etienne!

Etienne

Thanks, Messieurs! Come! Off with the tables! Clear the room! The ladies are arriving. -- I'll bet you'd play dice on the tombs of your grandsires.

Man

I'll take you! Tonight, after the ball, in the churchyard!

Etienne

I'll go you --

(Pause for clap hands from MEN)

If someone will carry you there. For it's my will, as Master of Ceremonies, that no man shall leave here tonight who can attend on his feet!

Servant

(From C. on landing)

His Excellency, the Lieutanant-Governor.

(The LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR enters, followed by SECRETARY and SILAS, as Whipping Boy. SILAS is completely transformed -- is magnificently dressed, wears a sword with which he is constantly becoming entangled)

(MEN bow to the Governor)

Men

Vive, the Lieutenant-Governor!

(LADIES enter from R. and L. through centre door top and take position on stairs)

(LADIES and GENTLEMEN are talking low - a little laughter here and there)

Lieutenant-Governor

When does the entertainment begin?

Secretary

At once, Excellency.

(ALL laugh and continous talking, paying no attention to Silas)

(MUSIC CUE for -

No. 14 SONG -- "THE LOVES OF NEW ORLEANS"

I

WE ARE THE LOVES OF NEW ORLEANS,

ITS LANGUOUR, ITS GLOW, ITS FIRE,

WE WEAR THE BADGE OF THE RED, RED ROSE

WITH ITS FRAGRANCE OF DESIRE.

WE ARE THE LOVES OF NEW ORLEANS,

SWEET, SLUMBROUS FLOWERS OF NIGHT,

WE DRIVE THE CARES OF THE DAY AWAY

IN OUR GARDENS OF DELIGHT.

MEN

ANGELIQUE! FELICE! VERONIQUE! ANNICE!

YOU DRIVE THE CARES OF DAY AWAY IN YOUR GARDENS OF DELIGHT.

(ALL repeat)

(MUSIC for SPANISH GIRLS - enter from C. door)

Spanish Girls

(Sing)

OH HOLA, WE DANCE LA CACHUCA!

CASTANETS SOUNDING SO GAY!

THE BRIGHT EYES OF EACH SENORITA

SHALL DRIVE EVERY TROUBLE AWAY!

OH HOLA, WE DANCE LA CACHUCA!

(Orchestra repeats - THEY do a Spanish dance)

(SAN DOMINGO GIRLS take position on stairs. AS SPANISH GIRLS dance -- enter door from above)

Men

(Sing as they come slowly downstairs)

BELLES FROM SAN DOMINGO!

ISLAND FAR AWAY!

LOVELY SAN DOMINGO!

ISLAND FAR AWAY!

(Orchestra repeats)

(SAN DOMINGO GIRLS do slow posture dance)

(Music for FRENCH GIRLS -- enter from C, door)

French Girls

(Sing)

YOU'LL PLAINLY SEE, WE'RE FROM PARIS,

WE HAVE ZE AIR, WE HAVE ZE SMILE,

REGARDES VOUS, WE HAVE ZE STYLE!

WE KNOW A THING OR TWO WE DO!

LA BELLE MARIE, ANNETTE, FROU FROU!

(THEY do a very gay dance, and then the entire CHORUS goes into refrain of the first song. Repeat once:)

"WE ARE THE LOVES OF NEW ORLEANS"

(At conclusion of ensemble, GIRLS do cakewalk, dance, exit in twos into ballroom)

(MEN exit R. and L. upstairs)

(On encore, repeat cakewalk for Girls only -- MEN remain off)

(Meanwhile, the GOVERNOR and SECRETARY have been seated on settee)

(After encore, LIZETTE appears on landing in Centre door)

Lizette

(Coming down, to Silas)

Is it possible -- do my eyes deceive me?

Silas

They do! I am not what you are looking for!

Lizette

Ah, that voice - my rising American! I knew I would find you at last!

(She throws her arms around his neck)

Silas

Your Excellency - I demand protection from this woman.

Governor

(Waking with a start)

Bye and bye.

Silas

Bye and bye -- it's now I need it!

Lizette

I waited for you, Si -- I waited at the storehouse. You never came.

Governor

Who is this female?

Lizette

I am a casquette maid, sir --

Silas

She's home-made--

Governor

If you are a casquette maid, why are you not wed and out of New Orleans?

Lizette

Ask him!

Silas

You see, your Excellency, what she wants is to be sent back to France.

Lizette

I don't. I want a husband. And I want him quick. Husbands were guaranteed.

Silas

Did the King see you when he gave that guarantee?

Lizette

His envoy did, and he said there'd be a perfect rush in my direction.

(The GOVERNOR gets ups and starts to L)

Wait, Your Excellency, this man took my gold.

Silas

You gave it to me!

Governor

What's this?

Lizette

He made me open the casquette. He took my gold to buy tobacco. Where is it now?

Silas

Gone up in smoke.

Governor

This is serious! Well! Well! This must be looked into -- but not now, bye-and-bye--

(He goes off L)

Lizette

Bye-and-bye --- That's always the way it is with me. I am always waiting, but such is the beauty of my nature that I never give up hope.

No. 14 SONG -- "IN THE SWEET BYE AND BYE"

Lizette & Silas

I

I AM A MAID, A PRETTY MAID,

A DAINTY TOUCH-ME-NOT,

NO MAN CAN SAY THAT HE FROM ME

THE SLIGHTEST FAVOR GOT!

THOUGH HOSTS OF SUITORS, MAD WITH LOVE,

PURSUE ME DAY AND NIGHT,

I CALMLY SAY,

"STAY, VILLAIN STAY!"

I WAIT FOR MR. RIGHT!

Refrain

BYE-AND-BYE, BYE-AND-BYE,

DON'T MEET YOUR TROUBLES COMING,

AND PERHAPS THEY'LL PASS YOU BY.

NO KISS HAS FLUSHED THIS BROW OF SNOW,

NO TOUCH PROFANED MY TREASURES' FLOW,

BUT THAT'S ALL RIGHT, BECAUSE I KNOW

THAT SOMEONE'S GOING TO LOVE ME IN THE SWEET BYE-AND-BYE!

II

I DON'T DENY, I BURN TO BE

THE PET, THE JOY, THE LIFE,

OF SOME BRAVE MAN WHO WOULD MAKE ME

HIS LAWFUL WEDDED WIFE;

BUT IF A WRETCH SHOULD DARE TO BREATHE

A WORD THAT WASN'T RIGHT!

I'D GIVE A WHACK!

SAY, "VILLAIN, BACK!

I WAIT FOR MISTER RIGHT!"

Refrain

BYE-AND-BYE, BYE-AND-BYE,

DON'T MEET YOUR TROUBLES COMING,

AND PERHAPS THEY'LL PASS YOU BY.

MY PROSPECTS NOW SEEM RATHER SPARE,

NO ONE SEEMS WILD MY FATE TO SHARE,

OH VERY WELL, I DON'T DESPAIR,

FOR SOMEONE'S GOING TO LOVE ME IN THE SWEET BYE-AND-BYE!

(After a song)

Silas

Somebody loves you now.

Lizette

Oh Si -- at last!

Silas

Listen! It's a dark secret!

Lizette

A dark secret? --

Silas

It's the Governor himself.

Lizette

What!

Silas

Yes. He is consumed with an undying passion for you!

Lizette

But he's been asleep every time I met him.

Silas

Dreaming of you, little one, dreaming of you!

Lizette

It is not possible!

Silas

I know it, but it is! From the first moment he saw you, your face has haunted him!

Lizette

My face!

Silas

Yours, pretty one, yours! That is why no man in New Orleans has dared to propose to you! That is why I - the Whipping Boy, must step back -- erase your image from the tablets of my memory! I see my duty and I do it!

(He stalks off tragically L., with LIZETTE following; awed by his manner)

(MARIETTA comes through centre door at bottom. She is in domino and masked. Appears timid and frightened -- MEN enter from ballroom. They are excited and hilarious)

Man

(Sees Marietta and stops)

Ah! A masque!

(Rushing up, grabbing MARIETTA by the arm)

Come! Come!

(Brings MEN down C)

This is not allowed at the Quadroon Ball.

(THEY surround Marietta)

Marietta

Oh, Messieurs! I beg --

Man

(Taking her masque off)

No covered faces here!

(MARIETTA struggles to retain the mask, which THEY take from her)

Marietta

Oh Sire! Have pity -- Oh!

Men

Ah! The beautiful daughter of Rudolfo!

Man

Charming! Entrancing! Marietta! Vive Marietta!

Marietta

This is unkind, Monsieur. I do not know you.

(ETIENNE enters from ballroom)

Man

(Taking hold of MARIETTA)

Oh, but you shall! Come -- dance, sing, laugh!

(Taking hold of HER, pulling her towards ballroom)

Marietta

(Struggling in the embrace of a MAN)

No! No!

(ETIENNE stops them)

Etienne

What's this?

Marietta

(Running to him)

Oh sir, these men --

Etienne

(To Men)

Leave us!

Man

Oh no! 'Tis a privilege of the ball --

Etienne

I beg as a favor, leave us --

Man

Oh, but certainly - later, Mam'selle, later!

(MEN exit into ballroom)

Marietta

Oh, will you, can you have someone take me back home! I shouldn't have come -- I didn't know --

(Enter DICK and BLAKE through C. doors)

Etienne

Nonsense, those good fellows meant no harm. 'Tis but the license of the ball. Come now, you're under my protection!

(He offers his arm to MARIETTA. They start for the ballroom)

Dick

(Coming down)

Please Marietta, let me take you home.

Marietta

Ah ha! My friend, I have caught you. You said you were not coming to the ball!

Dick

I have just heard from Rudolfo that you were here.

(ADAH enters C., stands on landing)

Marietta

Oh well! Then I shall stay. As long as my dear friend, my sworn friend is here, all is arranged. Monsieur, your arm. I would dance.

(She takes ETIENNE'S arm and they exit into ballroom. MARIETTA laughing over her shoulder at Dick)

(ADAH goes to R., looking into ballroom)

Blake

Well, now we are here, I propose to enjoy myself.

NO. 15

(MUSIC -- Orchestra plays a waltz)

(Goes to Adah)

Madam, if you will dance, I shall be walking the floor of Heaven with the evening star on my arm.

Adah

(Gloomily)

I do not dance tonight.

Blake

Faith -- I'll see another then. (Exits ballroom)

Dick

(Going up to Adah)

You are not going to dance?

Adah

(Looking off)

He dances first with her. Always before, he opened the ball with me.

Dick

Will you favor me?

Adah

You are kind, but I don't feel like it now.

Dick

Come! You should have more spirit! You are beautiful.

Adah

Thank you, Monsieur!

(ETIENNE and MARIETTA enter from ballroom)

But you do not understand the heart of a woman!

Marietta

Oh! We disturb --

(MUSIC stops)

Adah

Mam'selle, this is no place for you. You are too young. Go away with your good friend.

Marietta

Oh! I leave that to you!

Etienne

Well answered! Why should she be robbed of the joy of life?

Marietta

Yes, why? I am free. I belong to no one. I shall enjoy everything to the full!

No. 18a "LIVE FOR TODAY"

MARIETTA - CAPTAIN DICK - ETIENNE - ADAH

Marietta

WOULD YOU SAY TO THE ROSE

WHEN IT BLOOMS TO LIFE

TAKE CARE YOU MUST JOYLESS BE

CLOSE YOUR HEART, CLOSE YOUR LIPS

TO THE SUNSHINE BRIGHT,

AND THE BREEZES WILD AND FREE.

AH! YOUTH MUST BE YOUTH

IN A FLOWER OR MAID,

THOUGH AT EVENING THE PETALS FALL

AH LET ME BE YOUNG WHILE I MAY TODAY

I MAY NEVER KNOW JOY AT ALL!

Refrain

AH, LIFE IS SWEET

WHEN LOVE IS YOUNG,

A THRILL IN THE BLOOD LIKE WINE,

THEN BURNING GLANCES,

THE SOUL ENTRANCES

WITH RAPTURE ALMOST DIVINE!

AH! LOVE IS SWEET,

AH! JOY COMPLETE

AND CARE IS AN AGE AWAY,

AH! COME THEN SURRENDER

TO LOVE WARM AND TENDER

AND LIVE FOR TODAY, JUST TODAY!

AH! AH! AH! --

II

I WOULD SAY TO THE ROSE

WHEN IT BUDS TO LIFE,

BE GUARDED, BE SWEET, BE SHY,

YIELD NOT YOUR SWEETS

TO EACH SUITOR BOLD

THAT CARELESS PASSES BY!

YOUTH IS SO FLEET

THOUGH ITS DAY IS SWEET,

BUT JOY'S NOT THE END OF ALL

YOU DANCE IN THE SUN SO GAY ALL DAY

BUT AT NIGHT THE PETALS FALL.

(This is a big waltz song and at second refrain entire CHORUS slide in - line F.S. End line, C. - 3rd line, LADIES all dance off at conclusion of song into ballroom)

(After ensemble, all exit into ballroom)

(GOVERNOR enters, followed by SILAS)

Governor

'Tis my duty to see that the King's commands are obeyed. If this woman has shown you the contents of the casquette -- If you have taken her gold - You must wed her.

Silas

But your Excellency does not know all.

Governor

All? What?

Silas

(With mock humility)

You wish me to wed the Contessa d'Altena?

Governor

The Countessa d'Altena! What do you mean?

Silas

Have they kept it from you, Governor?

Governor

Kept what from me?

Silas

I can say no more. I have private information! I can say no more!

Governor

I command you!

Silas

Hist! She comes. Do not let her know that I have betrayed her secret. Her secret confided in me in a moment of weakness.

(Enter LIZETTE, SILAS bows low)

Silas (Cont'd)

Ah Madam! Contessa! Madam!

Lizette

You have abused me enough, young man. Don't call me names.

Silas

(Aside to her)

Ssh! The Governor! See how his glances gloat on you!

(He exits L)

Lizette

Mercy!

Governor

Come hither, little one.

Lizette

Oh! Your Excellency!

(She goes over timidly)

Governor

Fear me not. I know your life's secret!

Lizette

Oh Excellency! Don't tell anyone.

Governor

It shall rest, between us!

(Governor, looking around, sees SILAS peering in at door)

Silas! Here! You!

Silas

Did you call?

Governor

I wish to have some conversation with this lady!

Silas

(To Lizette)

What did I tell you!

Governor

Take this whistle.

Silas

What for? Do you want soft music for your conversation?

Governor

Sit you yonder.

Silas

Where is yonder?

Lizette

Never mind, you go sit on it.

Silas

Oh, very well --

(Aside to Governor)

Wouldn't you know she was a Countess, Governor -- the way she commands!

Governor

If anyone approaches, whistle.

Silas

Oh, I see -- I'm the whistling boy! Looking out for trouble.

(Goes to landing)

Governor

(Motions to Lizette)

Sit.

(LIZETTE is embarrassed, sits on his lap)

(SILAS gives loud whistle -- BOTH jump)

Silas

Pardon! Pardon! I was just trying it!

(GOVERNOR and LIZETTE sit again -- SILAS whistles)

It slipped.

Governor

Turn your back!

Silas

I will! I will! Can I hear to look? No!

Governor

(To Lizette)

I understand you are not what you seem.

Lizette

No woman is what she seems, Governor.

Governor

Have you proofs of your parentage?

Lizette

Proofs? Of course!

Governor

Your illustrious father is a very rich man, I understand.

Lizette

Well, he has a lot of money back of him. I don't know whether it will ever catch up.

Governor

Under the circumstances, of course you cannot marry my Whipping Boy.

Lizette

Not if it pains you, Governor.

Governor

It would pain me very much.

Lizette

Oh governor.

(She throws her arms around the GOVERNOR's neck)

Governor

Wait! Perhaps when your father comes, he will not consent. Think of the life I have led.

Lizette

Well, Governor, you've got nothing on me!

(SILAS has come down from landing and is listening eagerly)

Governor

Eh?

Lizette

Besides, why should my father come to America?

(SILAS shows that he is getting anxious)

Governor

But we have sent for him. He has offered ten thousand francs for your return.

Lizette

Ten thousand francs for my return. That can't be my father!

(SILAS whistles furiously to prevent LIZETTE saying anything more. THEY turn in astonishment. SIR HARRY enters and going up to SILAS, slaps him heavily on the back. SILAS chokes)

Sir Harry

Well, Sir Whipping Boy, how are you?

Silas

I - er --

(Whistles)

I - I ---

Lizette

Mercy! He's swallowed the whistle.

Governor

Give it up - that whistle was solid gold!

Silas

Give it up!

(Whistles -- whistles)

I wish I could!

Lizette

Take him out! Get a pump! He'll choke!

(She and SIR HARRY hustle SILAS off R., whistling furiously)

(Enter ETIENNE)

Etienne

Ah! Father! How does Louisiana's prospective ruler find himself?

Governor

I find myself very uncomfortable. I don't approve of your schemes, and the deeper they go the less I like them.

Etienne

Oh nonsense! Affairs are progressing finely. You see my popularity -- 'Twill not be long before 'twill be quite safe to declare Louisiana a republic -- we shall rule here.

Governor

But the Governor -- he may bribe your man.

Etienne

I'll swear to the loyalty of my men. The Governor is safe on the Isle of Pines. My men but await my word to send him where men tell no tales!

Governor

Ssh! I'll not listen to it! If it comes out all right, I'm with you -- but -- remember, I don't commit myself.

Etienne

Oh, my worthy parent --

(He laughs as GOVERNOR exits R.)

(Enter MARIETTA from ballroom)

Marietta

Oh Monsieur! I am glad you persuaded me to come. How I have laughed and enjoyed myself!

Etienne

I have observed you, Mademoiselle, and I apologize for having disbelieved your statement that you were not the Countessa d'Altera!

Marietta

(Surprised)

Eh?

Etienne

I have seen you tonight - the spirit of the people. No lady highly born could have entered as you have into our rustic festivity.

Marietta

(Puzzled)

I don't know that I like that.

Etienne

Oh, believe me, it has rejoiced me, because if you had really been the Countessa, you would have been far from the reach of Etienne Grandet, but even I may aspire to the daughter of Rudolfo!

Marietta

Indeed! And how about Adah!

Etienne

I will sell her tonight, if you will accept my hand and my name.

Marietta

Sell her! No! No!

(Enter DICK from ballroom)

Dick

Marietta, may I have a word with you please?

Etienne

(To Marietta)

You will excuse me -- but -- you will not forget my offer.

(Etienne exits. DICK to Marietta

Marietta

You find it gay this ball, my friend?

Dick

Very gay, my friend.

Marietta

You find Adah charming, no?

Dick

I find her charming, yes!

Marietta

Me, I am tired of everything --

Dick

Tired?

Marietta

You are changed tonight - you -- I don't like you any more!

Dick

You have never seemed to like me to any extent, Mademoisselle!

Marietta

Oh yes. I thought you were a very high character, but you are a coquette!

Dick

I -- a coquette?

Marietta

Yes, I can't have a friend who is a coquette. You are all the same gay, like these Creoles. Yes, drink glass after glass - I saw you --

Dick

It's just the spirit of the place, and yet, there's something the matter with me -- for all I seem gay, I can't feel happy.

Marietta

Me too!

Dick

Shall I tell you about it?

No. 16 SONG -- DICK

"I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE."

Dick

I'VE A VERY STRANGE FEELING

I NE'ER FELT BEFORE

'TIS A KIND OF A GRIND

OR DEPRESSION;

MY HEART'S ACTING STRANGELY

FEELS RATHER SORE,

OR AT LEAST IT GIVES ME

THAT IMPRESSION.

MY PULSES LEAP MADLY

WITHOUT ANY CAUSE,

BELIEVE ME I'M TELLING YOU

I'M GAY WITHOUT PAUSE

THEN AND WITHOUT CAUSE,

MY SPIRITS ARE TRULY, UNRULY.

Refrain

FOR --

I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE,

SOME ONE GIRL -

I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE,

HEAD AWHIRL -

I'M FALLING IN LOVE WITH SOMEONE,

PLAIN TO SEE,

I'M SURE I COULD LOVE SOMEONE MADLY

IF SOMEONE WOULD ONLY LOVE ME.

II

I DON'T MIND CONFESSING THAT I USED TO SCOFF

AT THIS SORT OF SPORT OF FLIRTATION,

I USED TO BELIEVE THAT I'D NEVER BE CAUGHT

IN THIS FOOLISH BUT FOND COMPLICATION;

I'M LOSING ALL RELISH FOR THINGS THAT WERE DEAR,

I'M LOOKING FOR TROUBLE AND KNOW IT,

WHEN SOMEONE IS NEAR,

I'M FEELING QUITE QUEER,

BUT I HEARTILY HOPE I DON'T SHOW IT.

(After first encore, the cries of "Etienne! Vive Etienne! Vive Master of Ceremonies")

(ETIENNE enters from ballroom, ADAH follows)

(LADIES and GENTLEMEN enter, following ETIENNE)

Etienne

Listen! Hear you all! Hear you all! Silence! According to the long established custom of the Quadroon Ball, any man who wishes to buy, sell or exchange his favorite slave may take advantage of the Cordon Bleu auction!

Ladies

No! No!

(Hisses)

Men

Auction! Auction!

Etienne

Any woman who has offended by jealousy or loss of charm or any other cause may be put up and sold to the highest bidder.

Dick

Blake No! No! Shame! Shame!

Men

Yes! Yes! Auction! Auction!

Etienne

Come! Who will buy, sell or exchange! Is no one here brave enough? Well then, I will open the sale with the most beautiful slave in New Orleans!

(Pointing to Adah)

Adah!

Adah

Etienne! Etienne!

(Running up to Etienne)

Men

Adah! Auction! Auction!

Etienne

(Grabbing ADAH by the wrist)

A bid! A bid!

East Indian

Five hundred francs! My friends, I am bid five hundred francs for the most beautiful slave in New Orleans!

Man

A thousand francs!

Etienne

A thousand francs! Come, that is better -- a thousand francs.

East Indian

Twelve hundred!

Adah

(Turning and pleading to Dick)

Do not let him sell me to that man.

Dick

Fifteen hundred francs!

All

Vive the American.

Etienne

Fifteen hundred francs!

Marietta

(Furious at Dick)

You bid for her!

East Indian

Eighteen hundred francs!

Dick

Two thousand.

All

Ah!

Etienne

Come, the game improves! Two thousand bid for La Belle Adah!

Marietta

(To Dick)

If you bid again, I will never speak to you!

Dick

I can't let him sell her to that man.

East Indian

Twenty-two hundred!

Etienne

Twenty-two hundred. I am bid twenty-two hundred! Going! Going!

(DICK hesitates -- ADAH stretches imploring arms to him)

Dick

Three thousand!

All

Ah!

East Indian

Take her! I'm through!

Etienne

Three thousand francs. Adah, the most beautiful slave in New Orleans goes to Captain Dick Warrington for three thousand francs! Captain Warrington does not believe in slaves --

(ALL laugh)

Three thousand I am bid. Gentlemen, are you done?

Men

Done!

Etienne

Going, going, gone -- sold to Captain Richard Warrington for three thousand francs.

(Steps down C)

(ADAH sinks with her face in her hands)

Marietta

(Xing to Etienne)

Ah, beautiful! Beautiful! Captian Dick, my friend, who does not believe in slaves! He makes the highest bid of all! After this sale, the free gift. Behold, I confess I am Marietta d'Altena, sir - you asked me for my hand when you thought I was only Marietta, the daughter of Rudolfo. Now I bestow it upon you!

Dick

No! No!

All

Yes! Yes!

Etienne

Mademoiselle, you shall never regret.

Dick

I forbid it!

Marietta

You forbid? And who are you, sir?

Etienne

Come, Marietta. I'll not trust you to keep this promise till tomorrow - we shall be wed tonight.

All

A wedding! A wedding!

Etienne

We shall end this, the most notable ball with a wedding.

Marietta

But these clothes! No! No! I cannot tonight.

Etienne

Tonight, tonight! Friends, ladies! I leave it to you to find a suitable garments for my bride.

Nannette, Felice, and Fanchon

Yes, yes, we will! Come! Come!

(They surround Marietta)

Marietta

But - but --

Nanette

You shall have my dress!

Felice

And my veil!

Fanchon

And the orange trees are in blossom!

(THEY hustle MARIETTA off Centre door)

Blake

Dick, Dick! Be reasonable! What can you do among so many?

Etienne

I wouldn't attempt anything rash, Monsieur.

(Exits to ballroom, the CROWD following)

(ADAH, DICK and BLAKE left on stage)

Adah

(Coming down and throwing herself at Dick's feet)

My master!

Dick

I am not your master. I bought you to set you free.

Adah

Free! I -- you will set me free?

Dick

Yes, I will make your papers out tomorrow.

Adah

I - a free woman?

(Draws a deep breath)

Then I will act like one --

(To Dick)

Listen, Monsieur, you would prevent this wedding?

Dick

It must be prevented, the girl is mad! She doesn't realize....

Adah

On Etienne Grandet's right arm you will find his name!

Dick

His name!

Adah

Bras Pique!

Dick

Blake Bras Pique!

Adah

I have told you -- make what use of it you will.

(Exits to ballroom)

Dick

(To Blake)

Quick, assemble our men!

Blake

I will - it will be a beautiful fight.

(Blake exits door C.)

(DICK exits door L.)

(SILAS enters from door R., singing -- "I'm Falling in Love with Someone")

Silas

I always fall in love with someone, but nobody falls in love with me. It's pretty soft for Silas here, anyway.

(Blows whistle)

O, see who is coming!

No. 17 - SONG -- "IT'S PRETTY SOFT FOR YOU SILAS"

Silas

1

KING SOLOMON THE BIBLE SAYS HAD WIVES A HUNDRED SCORE,

AND STILL HE WASN'T SATISFIED AND LOOKED AROUND FOR MORE!

HE WORE A NOBBY PURPLE SUIT AND AN EIGHTEEN-KARAT HAT,

AND THE SWEET YOUNG THINGS THEY COULDN'T RESIST SO

SWELL A GUY AS THAT.

SO HE USED TO TAKE A WEDDING TRIP MOST EVERY DAY OR SO,

AND THEN HE COULDN'T HANDLE ALL THE BRIDES THAT TRIED TO GO;

AND HE USED TO GET TEN TRADING STAMPS FOR EVERY BALE HE GOT.

HE KEPT THE BAKERS BAKING AND THE BAKINGS THEY COULD BAKE

TO KEEP FILLED THE ROYAL PANTRY WITH THE ROYAL WEDDING CAKE;

OF COURSE A KING'S THE SORT OF THING 'MOST EVERYONE WANTS TO BE.

BUT I DON'T KNOW THAT SOLOMON HAD VERY MUCH ON ME.

Refrain

FOR--

IT'S PRETTY SOFT FOR SILAS - THAT IS RIGHT,

A REGULAR CINCH FOR SILAS, LUCKY BOY!

MY WINNING WAYS AND SUNNY SMILE

HAS MR. SOLOMON SKILLED A MILE.

AND IT'S PRETTY SOFT FOR SILAS - OI OI --

THE QUEEN OF SHEBA CAME TO SEE

WHAT KIND OF A SORT OF KING WAS HE.

BUT LOOK AT THE QUEEN THAT FALL FOR ME --

IT'S PRETTY SOFT FOR SILAS, LUCKY BOY!

2

FOLKS SAY THAT OLD ADONIS WAS THE MOST BEST LOOKING MAN,

OF ALL THE LADY KILLER FELLOWS SINCE THE WORLD BEGAN!

WHEN VENUS GAVE A SWELL AFFAIR, WHY, THIS WOMAN DIDN'T CARE

IF THE OTHER MEN THEY NEVER SHOWED UP, IF "AD" WAS ONLY THERE

SO HE WENT TO ALL THE LUNCHEONS AND THE DINNERS AND THE TEAS,

AND EVERYBODY SAID HE WAS THE SMOOTHEST THING IN GREECE.

HE JOLLIED MRS. MERCURY AND FRAU DENOSTHESES

AND DANCED A DOZEN WALTZES WITH FRAU HERCULES.

THE FAT GIRLS ALL TOOK ANTI-FAT, THE SLIM ONES ANTI-SLIM,

THEY DID THE BEST THEY ALL COULD DO TO MAKE A HIT WITH HIM,

OF COURSE THAT SOCIAL LION THING MOST EVERYONE WANTS TO BE,

BUT I DON'T THINK ADONIS HE, HAD VERY MUCH ON ME!

(Encore)

(MAN enters door R.)

(At end of song, ALL exit to ballroom)

(SILAS re-enters)

(Enter ETIENNE and GOVERNOR from ballroom)

Governor

Dear me! Dear me! Of course I'll send for the priest if you say so, but this haste! Dear me! Dear me! You have only her word that she is the Contessa. There is another who claims ---

Etienne

Nonsense! She is the Contessa d'Altena - Le Grand has seen her often in Italy. Rest easy. I made sure of that before committing myself.

(DICK enters door R.)

Dick

(Going up to Etienne)

That's a very fine coat you wear, sir.

Etienne

Sir!

Dick

But I don't like the sleeve!

(Seizes ETIENNE'S right sleeve by the cuff and rips it open, disclosing the tattooed arm)

Etienne

You know what this means, sir?

Dick

(To Lieutenant-Governor)

Your Excellency! This man is Bras Pique!! You have seen his name upon his arm. I demand his arrest!

Governor

Dear me! Dear me!

Etienne

In whose name, sir!

Dick

In the name of the King of France from whom I bear warrant!

Etienne

A bas! The King of France -- I rule here!

Governor

One moment, wait -- we'll settle this thing when the Governor returns. I have no authority, alas. But in the meanwhile you may not know, sir, that for just such emergencies as this -- I have re-established the old order of the whipping boy!

Silas

That's me!!

Etienne

Ha! Ha!

Governor

He shall take upon himself my son's punishment!

Silas

What?

Etienne

(Pointing to Silas)

Besides, this man bears too, on his arm the name Bras Pique!

Silas

(To Governor)

I was only joking. I just had it tattooed to frighten the girls. You told me you had such a well behaved family --

(GUARDS up C.)

Etienne

Ah ho, guards!

(GUARDS enter C., indicating Silas)

Don't let this man escape -- He is Bras Pique! Take him to the calaboose.

(To Dick)

As for you sir, I will meet you where you please, after the wedding.

(Exits)

Dick

We will meet, but it will not be after the wedding.

(Exits)

(SILAS runs up C. after DICK. GUARDS push him back)

Silas

(To Governor)

Oh Governor, Governor, now don't fall asleep. I think something is going to happen to me. Oh, Governor, save me, what are they going to do with me?

Governor

I don't know, I am sure -- the penalty for piracy is hanging. Maybe I can get you out of that!

Silas

You will?

Governor

Yes, -- I'll get them to shoot you, it's quicker.

(TWO GAURDS come down and seize SILAS, pulling him up C.)

Silas

Mercy ---

Governor

Mercy! Did you have mercy when you tried to foist that chromo off on me as the Contessa d'Altena? Away with him!

(Exits R)

(LIZETTE enters)

Lizette

Si! Si -- where are you going?

Silas

I'm not going, I'm being took.

Lizette

Where are you being tooken to?

Silas

To the Calaboose.

Lizette

Then I'll go with you. I don't care for that fat Governor!

Silas

All right Lizette, come ahead. I don't care what becomes of me now!

Lizette

Call me Lizzie.

(GUARDS exit through C. door with SILAS followd by LIZETTE)

(Enter DICK'S MEN)

Dick

I suppose I shall have to take the law into my own hands - as long as you refuse - Forward March.

(THEY exit followed by GOVERNOR pleading)

(Enter MARIETTA and GIRLS in bridal clothes)

Girls

Oh, how charming! How sweet!

Marietta

I beg of you - give me a few moments alone!

Girls

Assuredly! Come -- the bride must have a few moments - come.

(THEY exit into ballroom)

Blake

(Enters from C. door, coming down to Marietta)

Mademoiselle! Mademoiselle! You are making a great mistake!

Marietta

What do you mean?

Blake

Captain Dick has set Adah free!

Marietta

Set her free?

Blake

Yes - and this man you are going to marry is Bras Pique.

Marietta

Etienne?

Blake

Yes, Etienne Grandet. Our men are on the way. In a matter of minutes, we'll have him and his crew.

(Exits)

Marietta

He set Adah free? Oh what a fool I've been.

(Goes to door. GUARDS appear)

Let me pass.

Guards

Our orders are that no one is to leave until after the wedding.

Marietta

But there will be no wedding, stupid!

Guard

We have our orders.

(Exits)

Marietta

(Tearfully)

I am so unhappy - so unhappy.

No. 18 - (MUSIC CUE --DREAM MELODY)

(CAPTAIN DICK is heard outside singing)

Dick

OH SWEET MYSTERY OF LIFE, AT LAST I'VE FOUND THEE

AH! I KNOW AT LAST THE SECRET OF IT ALL!

ALL THE LONGING, SEEKING, STRIVING, WAITING, YEARNING,

THE FOND HOPES, THE JOY AND FOOLISH TEARS

THAT FALL --

(MARIETTA has risen and is listening intently)

(CAPTAIN DICK is seen cautiously entering at window from balcony)

FOR 'TIS LOVE AND LOVE ALONE THE WORLD IS SEEKING,

AND 'TIS LOVE AND LOVE ALONE CAN SATISFY;

THIS THE ANSWER, THIS THE END AND ALL OF LIVING!

FOR IT IS LOVE ALONE THAT RULES FOR AYE.

(He comes downstairs signing, his arms outstretched to MARIETTA. She joins in the song and THEY sing it through together)

(At the close she is in his arms)

(Enter ETIENNE in wedding clothes followed by GUESTS)

Etienne

(Seeing MARIETTA in DICK'S arms)

What's this? My bride?

Marietta

No No Monsieur he has sang my song, the prophecy has come true.

(SILAS and LIZETTE enter followed by BLAKE and HIS MEN)

Silas

They have reloosed me! The have reloosed me!

(BLAKE pointing to Etienne)

Etienne

(Runs upstairs but is stopped by OTHERS of BLAKE'S MEN)

The game's well played, Monsieur, you win.

Dick

Let him go! I have won, all I want in this world.

(Takes MARIETTA in his arms as ALL sing DREAM MELODY, possible "ZING ZING" for curtain)

CURTAIN

END OF PLAY

Table of Contents

ACT I: PUBLIC SQUARE in New Orleans

ACT II:

Scene 1: A Marionette Theatre

Scene 2: Ballroom of the Jeunesse Club