Presence of mind and courage in distress
Are more than armies to procure success.
One Female and Eight Male Figures.
This tableau is one that can be produced without much trouble or
expense. The scene is taken from a historical incident that occurred
during the revolutionary war. At the close of one of the hard-fought
battles between the Americans and British, an American officer, having
fought long and well, was obliged to seek safety in flight, hotly
pursued by a company of British soldiers, led on by their captain. He
takes refuge in the mansion of a tory in the vicinity of the battle
ground, and prostrates himself at the feet of the lady of the house,
who has risen from her chair on hearing the tumult at the door, and
with her arm extended and eyes flashing, sternly bade the British
officer and his followers to quit the house. The British officer is
standing within a few paces of the American, with sword extended,
ready to pierce his body. In the rear of the British officer stands a
platoon of soldiers, with muskets ready to charge. The furniture of
the room consists of chairs, carpet, tables, small sofa, pictures, &c.
The lady who personates the tory housekeeper should be tall, with good
figure and features; her costume consists of a showy silk dress and
velvet waist. Position is, at the right of the stage, near the front.
A small table is placed at her side, on which are a work box and piece
of embroidery; behind her is a large chair; her right hand is extended
towards the British officer; the left is placed on her waist; her
countenance expressing anger and command. The American officer should
be costumed in Continental uniform, which consists of a blue coat,
decorated with large gilt buttons, and faced with buff, buff breeches,
white hose, low shoes, knee and shoe buckles, red sash, epaulets,
chapeau, and side arms. In his right hand he grasps a broken sword.
The position is, kneeling two paces front of the lady, body bent
forward, and eyes cast down to the floor. The British officer and
soldiers are dressed in similar costumes, with the exception of the
coats, which are scarlet. The British officer's position is, standing
in the centre of the stage, with sword pointed towards the American
officer, and eyes directed to the lady. The lights for the piece
should be of medium brightness, and come from the side of the stage
opposite the lady. The background must be partially shaded, while the
foreground is light. For music, drum and fife are adapted to the
piece.