One Male and Two Female Figures.
This pretty tableau is one that can be formed without much expense or
trouble. The scene represented is a young knight, about to leave his
home, his wife, and child, to fight the battles of his country. A
large flight of steps fills up one third of the stage at the
background. These can be made by placing strips of boards on boxes,
arranged in the form of steps, and covering them with white marble or
light stone paper; at one side of the stage is a pedestal three feet
high and eighteen inches square, on the top of which is a large vase
of flowers. A box covered with marble paper, and fresco cornice, will
answer for the pedestal, while a large earthen jar, painted white,
will do for the vase. On the other end of the steps, two marble
pillars reach from the upper step to the ceiling, and a couple of
spruce trees placed back of the steps, at each end, will give a good
effect. The knight is costumed in a black frock, trimmed around the
bottom of the skirt and sleeves with purple cambric, a straight
collar of the same material, ornamented with gilt buttons and paper;
belt and side arms, red sash, riding gloves, purple knee breeches,
white hose, low shoes, knee and shoe buckles, a low cap, with a gilt
band, and showy plume fastened to the side with a brilliant paste pin;
a small velvet cape, trimmed around the bottom with gold paper, is
worn carelessly over the left shoulder. Position is, standing on the
bottom step, facing the audience; one foot rests on the floor of the
stage, the other on the step; the right hand points to the back of the
stage, while the left rests on the shoulder of his wife, who stands at
his side; his body is bent slightly forward, eyes directed to those of
his wife; countenance expresses animation. The lady who personates the
wife should have black, curly hair, good figure, medium height, and
regular features. Costume consists of a blue silk dress, velvet waist,
hair arranged in curls, and ornamented with showy hair pins. Position
is, at the side of her husband, two paces in advance, and in such
position that a side view is had of the form; her body bent forward,
so that her hands, which are clasped, will rest on her husband's
shoulder, head thrown back, eyes directed to those of her husband,
face expressing grief. A few paces to the left of the lady, is a
cradle, containing a sleeping child. A large Newfoundland dog lies
quietly watching it. The scene should be illuminated by a purple fire
burned near the front of the stage. Music of a martial style.