THE THIRTEENTH CHAIR
A Play in Three Acts
by
BAYARD VEILLER
London, Samuel French, Ltd.
1922
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|| THE ABOVE MENTIONED FEE IS ||
|| REDUCED NOW TO THREE GUINEAS ||
|| EACH PERFORMANCE. ||
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Made and Printed in Great Britain by Butler & Tanner Ltd., Frome and
London.
THE THIRTEENTH CHAIR
Produced at The Duke of York's Theatre, London, on October the 16th,
1917, with the following cast of characters:--
ROSCOE CROSBY Mr. Charles Rock
WILLIAM CROSBY Mr. Lionel Belcher
EDWARD WALES Mr. Yorke Stephens
BRADDISH TRENT Mr. Dennis Wyndham
HOWARD STANDISH Mr Vane Sutton-Vane
PHILIP MASON Mr. Arthur Finn
POLLOCK Mr Charles Bishop
INSPECTOR DONOHUE Mr. James Carew
SERGEANT DUNN Mr. Frank Harris
DOOLAN Mr. Denham Charles
HELEN O'NEILL Miss Hilda Bayley
MRS. CROSBY Miss Dorothy Hammon
MARY EASTWOOD Miss Margaret Moffat
HELEN TRENT Miss Ethel Carrington
ELIZABETH ERSKINE Miss Grace Darby
GRACE STANDISH Miss Gladys Maude
MME. ROSALIE LA GRANGE Mrs. Patrick Campbell
The scene throughout the play is the Italian Room in Roscoe Crosby's
House, New York. The time is evening. The second act takes place ten
minutes later than the first and the third act half an hour later than
the second.
[Illustration]
THE THIRTEENTH CHAIR
ACT I
_The_ SCENE _is the Italian Room in_ ROSCOE CROSBY'S _Home in New York.
It is a handsome room. A plan of the setting will be found at the end of
the play. As the curtain rises_ Miss HELEN O'NEILL _and_ WILLIAM CROSBY
_are discovered standing_ R.C. _They are in each other's arms, and the
rising curtain discloses them as they kiss. The window blinds are
drawn._
HELEN. I love you so.
WILLIAM. You are the most wonderful thing in all the world.
(_She gives a little laugh and moves away from him a step right_.)
HELEN. I can't believe it.
WILLIAM. That I love you?
HELEN. Oh, no, I'm sure of that.
WILLIAM. If there's any doubt in your mind, I'll prove it again.
HELEN. They'll see us. (_He takes her in his arms again and kisses her.
She laughs happily. And then turning a little stands with her cheek
pressed against his._) Oh, my dear, my dear!
(MRS. CROSBY, _a fashionably dressed and extremely attractive woman,
enters from door down_ L. _She closes the door. She stops for a moment
and watches the lovers and then with a little laugh comes toward them._
MRS. CROSBY _is fifty-five and looks ten years younger. She has charm,
beauty and kindliness._)
MRS. CROSBY (_coming to_ C. _a step_). Don't move, you look so
comfortable! (_They separate quickly._) Well, are you happy? (_To_ R.C.)
WILLIAM. Oh, mother!
HELEN. Happy!
(MRS. CROSBY _crosses to_ HELEN, _pats her hand and stands between_
WILLIAM _and_ HELEN R.C.)
WILLIAM. Shall we tell 'em all?
MRS. CROSBY. Tell them? (_She laughs_.) What do you think they are?
Blind and deaf? It's been a perfectly wonderful dinner. You were so
blind to everything but each other. Oh, Billy, I thought your father
would have a fit.
HELEN. I thought he had an awful cold, he was coughing terribly.
MRS. CROSBY. Coughing? He nearly choked to keep from laughing. I told
him I'd send him from the table if he laughed at you.
WILLIAM. Why you never spoke to him once.
MRS. CROSBY. Child, explain to him that wives don't have to--Oh, I
forget you haven't learned that yet. You know, Billy, I can talk to your
father very effectively without words.
(_Crosses to below table_ R.)
HELEN (_turning to_ MRS. CROSBY). Mrs. Crosby--
WILLIAM. Mother, Nell's all fussed up because we've got money. She
thinks you'll think--I'm--what in novels they call marrying beneath me.
(_He and_ MRS. CROSBY _laugh_. HELEN _looks a little hurt_.)
HELEN. Well, he is.
MRS. CROSBY. Nonsense, child, don't be silly. (_Sits down stage end of
table_.)
HELEN (_moving a step to_ MRS. CROSBY). It's not silly, Mrs. Crosby.
Everyone will say it, and they'll be right.
WILLIAM. Let's settle this thing now once and for all, then. In the
first place it's all nonsense, and in the second it isn't true--
HELEN. Oh, yes, it is.
MRS. CROSBY. Oh, the first row! I'll settle this one. Nelly!
WILLIAM. Now then, Nell, out with it, get it all out of your system.
HELEN. In the first place, it's the money.
MRS. CROSBY. Yes, but--Helen--
HELEN. Please, let me say it all. You have social position, great
wealth, charming friends, everything that makes life worth--Oh, what's
the use? You know as well as I do the great difference between us, and--
MRS. CROSBY. My dear child, suppose we admit all that, what then?
HELEN. But don't you see--
WILLIAM (_embracing her in front of table_ R.). You little idiot!
I don't see anything but you.
MRS. CROSBY. You love each other, that's the whole of it, children.
Suppose you listen to an old woman.
WILLIAM. Old! Huh!
MRS. CROSBY. Well, old enough. If Billy was the usual rich man's son it
might be different. There might be something in what you say. But thank
God he isn't. Mind you, I don't say he wasn't like most of them when he
was younger. I dare say he was, I know he went to supper with a chorus
girl once.
WILLIAM. Twice.
HELEN. What was she like?
WILLIAM. Like a chorus girl.
MRS. CROSBY. The trouble with you, my dear, is that you've been reading
novels. When Billy's father married me, I was a school teacher, and he
was a clerk. We didn't have any money, but we were awfully in love--we
still rather like each other. Now just for the sake of argument, suppose
we should have acted like stern parents, what would be the use? Billy's
in business for himself, he's making his own money, he can marry when he
wants to and as he wants to, and if you want my real opinion, I don't
mind confessing that I think he's pretty lucky to get you.
WILLIAM. There!
HELEN. But you know so little about me.
WILLIAM. Oh, rot!
MRS. CROSBY (_to_ WILLIAM). Thank you, Billy. I was trying to think of
an effective word. (_To_ HELEN.) You've been my private secretary for
over a year, and no matter how much my looks belie it, I'm not a bit of
a fool. I know a great deal about you.
HELEN. My family--
WILLIAM (C.). I'm not marrying your family!
HELEN. I'm afraid you are.
WILLIAM. Oh!
HELEN. There's only mother.
MRS. CROSBY (_rising and moving to_ HELEN'S _side in front of table_
R.). Oh, my dear, forgive me. Your mother should have been here
to-night.
HELEN. No, my mother--Mrs. Crosby--mother doesn't go out--she'd be
unhappy here, and you'd be uncomfortable if she came. You'll find her
trying sometimes, you'll think she's common. Oh, don't misunderstand me.
She's the most wonderful mother in the world. And she's--
MRS. CROSBY. Suppose, my dear, that we take your mother for granted.
(_She crosses to a position between_ WILLIAM _and_ HELEN.) Take us as
you find us and we will try to be happy.
(_Enter_ CROSBY _from door_ L. _He is a fine-looking man of about sixty,
with a pleasant personality, a good deal of charm and that masterful
self-possession which sometimes marks the man of affairs. It is always
evident that the most delightful intimacy exists between himself and his
wife._)
MRS. CROSBY. Well, Roscoe?
CROSBY (_moves to_ L.C.). Welcome, my dear. (HELEN _crosses to him and
he takes her in his arms_.)
HELEN. Oh, Mr. Crosby--I--
CROSBY (_placing_ HELEN L. _of him with arm still around her, reaching
his other hand to_ WILLIAM). Bill, shake!
(_Father and son shake hands._)
(CROSBY _looks at his wife and they laugh gently._)
Shall I tell 'em?
MRS. CROSBY (_standing in front of table over_ R.). I would.
WILLIAM (R.C.) Tell us what?
CROSBY (C.). You did this just in time. To-morrow I was going to forbid
you to have anything more to do with this young woman.
HELEN (L. _of_ CROSBY). You see!
WILLIAM. What for?
CROSBY. Your mother and I felt that you were pretty slow with your
love-making--
WILLIAM. Oh, mother!
CROSBY (_continuing_).--and I knew darned well that if I interfered,
you'd take the girl out and marry her.
HELEN. Oh!
WILLIAM. You old schemer!
CROSBY (_crossing over_ R.C. _below_ MRS. CROSBY). I bet it would have
worked.
WILLIAM (_as_ CROSBY _crosses_ R. WILLIAM _slaps him on the back_).
It would. (_Crosses behind_ HELEN _to_ L.C.)
(_The door down_ L. _opens and_ EDWARD WALES _enters._)
WALES. I came ahead of the others to tell you--
CROSBY. Why, Ned, old man, you came just in time to congratulate them.
(_He points toward_ WILLIAM _and_ HELEN.)
WALES. On what? (L.C.)
MRS. CROSBY. They're going to be married: isn't it fine?
WALES. Oh!
(_There is a long pause._)
WILLIAM. You don't congratulate us, Mr. Wales.
WALES. No, Will, I don't. I'm not sure that I can. (_Down stage a step_.)
CROSBY. Why, Ned?
WILLIAM. I'm afraid that calls for an explanation.
WALES. Yes, I expect that it does.
(_There is a long pause._)
WILLIAM. Well?
WALES. I'm sorry, but I can't explain anything until to-morrow.
MRS. CROSBY. But really, Mr. Wales, don't you think--
WALES. I think my action is almost indefensible. I'm admitting that. But
I have very good reasons for what I am doing. (_He turns to_ CROSBY.)
Roscoe, I've been your close friend for a great many years. You've
trusted me and believed in me. I'm going to ask you to wait. After all,
twenty-four hours can't make any difference, and it may save you all a
great deal of unhappiness.
WILLIAM (_coming to_ WALES _a step_). This is intolerable.
CROSBY. Ned, I can't understand--
WILLIAM. Father, this is my affair.
WALES. I'm sorry.
WILLIAM. Sorry? I should think you would be.
HELEN. Billy, I told you what would happen. Mr. Wales, I don't know what
you have discovered. But it's nothing of which I am ashamed, nothing.
WILLIAM. Dear, you mustn't mind what he says.
HELEN (_crossing in front of_ WILLIAM _and moving a few steps towards_
WALES). Oh, but I do, I can't bear it. Why, my mother is the most
wonderful woman in the world. I won't have her attacked. Do you know
what she did? When I was ten years old she sent me away from her. I was
the one thing she had in the world to love and she gave me up because
she thought--because she thought it was the best thing she could do for
me. I was sent to a fine school, then to college, and then when I was
nineteen, quite by accident, I found out that she wasn't dead, as they'd
always told me, and when I went to her all she said was, "Well, my dear,
I wanted to make a lady of you."
(_Turns to_ WILLIAM C. _He takes her in his arms, then_ HELEN _moves
over to_ R. _of him._)
MRS. CROSBY (_in front of table_ R.). I think she succeeded, my dear.
WALES (L.C.). Miss O'Neill, I didn't even know that you had a mother.
WILLIAM (C.). Then you'd better tell us now whatever your objection is.
WALES. I can tell you nothing until to-morrow. (_He turns to_ WILLIAM.)
Billy, I'd rather be shot than do what I'm doing. If I'm wrong I'll come
to you gladly and eat dirt. I'll beg this young lady's pardon, on my
knees if she likes. (_Voices and laughter heard off_ L.) Now that's all
I'm going to say about it until then. (_Moves up_ L.)
(_The door_ L. _opens_. MARY EASTWOOD, HELEN TRENT, ELIZABETH ERSKINE,
GRACE STANDISH, HOWARD STANDISH, PHILIP MASON _and_ BRADDISH TRENT
_enter laughing and talking_.)
MISS EASTWOOD (_at_ L.C. _To crowd in doorway_). And he said whose wife?
(_All laugh_.)
WILLIAM (C. HELEN _in front of table_ R.). Quiet, quiet, everybody. I've
got a surprise for you.
(_From the people at the door come laughter and buzz of conversation_.)
Nellie and I are going to be married.
(_Girls rush_ C. _and congratulate_ HELEN. _Men and_ WILLIAM L.C.
_Business ad lib., congratulating him_.)
MISS EASTWOOD (_coming to_ WILLIAM C.). If you hadn't been engaged to
her, she could have you arrested for the way you made eyes at her at
dinner, Billy. But of course, if people will marry--why--(_She turns
away_ R.) I hope you will be awfully happy. (_Crosses to_ MR. _and_ MRS.
CROSBY _down_ R.)
MISS ERSKINE (_coming to_ WILLIAM). Isn't it beautiful? (_Moves up to_
L. _of chesterfield sofa_.)
MRS. TRENT (_crossing to_ WILLIAM _and kissing him_). I'm glad, Billy,
glad.
(_Moves over to_ STANDISH, _who is down_ L. _with_ TRENT. MISS STANDISH
_moves to front of table_ R.)
(WILLIAM _and_ HELEN _look around--see that no one is paying attention
to them_--WILLIAM _sneaks up to door_ R.C., _opens it and he and_ HELEN
_exit quickly_. MRS. CROSBY, MR. CROSBY _and_ MISS EASTWOOD _are in
front of the table_ R.C. TRENT, STANDISH, MRS. TRENT, MASON _talking
together over_ L. WALES _up_ L. _Conversation ad lib. until_ MISS
EASTWOOD _speaks_.)
MISS EASTWOOD (_to_ MRS. CROSBY). Marriage is such an awful gamble.
I know a girl who tried it four times. Billy, I do hope you--
(_Turning to_ C., _where_ WILLIAM _was standing_.) Why, they are gone!
(_Laughter and buzz of conversation ad lib_.)
(Miss EASTWOOD _runs up to door_ R.C., _opens it_--_looks in
dining-room--gives a scream_--_closes door quickly, comes to right end
of chesterfield_. TRENT _goes to console table_ L. _of chesterfield,
gets cigarette, lights it, and crosses to_ C. _back of chesterfield in
front of fireplace_. STANDISH _and_ MRS. TRENT _move to table_ L. _of
chesterfield_. WALES _and_ MISS ERSKINE _sit on chesterfield facing
audience up_ C. MRS. CROSBY _is still at upper end of table_ R. CROSBY
_talks with_ MISS EASTWOOD. MASON _is the_ L. _end of the chesterfield
facing the audience_.)
(_Enter_ BUTLER _from down_ L.)
BUTLER. Mrs. Crosby, the person you sent the car for has arrived.
(_All turn eagerly toward him_.)
WALES (_rises and moves down_ L.C.). Can we see her now, Mrs. Crosby?
MRS. CROSBY. Certainly--Pollock, ask Madame la Grange if she will come
in, please.
BUTLER. Yes, madame.
(_He exits and closes the door after him_.)
MISS EASTWOOD (_coming down between the large table and the
chesterfield_). I'm perfectly thrilled. Do you suppose she expects to be
taken seriously?
MISS ERSKINE. Of course.
MISS EASTWOOD (_at table_ R.). How funny! If you don't laugh at her, we
can have no end of fun. I'll guy her terribly and she'll never know it.
MRS. CROSBY (_at table_ R.). Oh, I wouldn't do that, Mary. She may be
quite in earnest.
MISS EASTWOOD. Oh, I can't believe that. Madame la Grange! I can see her
now. Tall, black-haired creature, regular adventuress, see if she isn't.
Isn't she, Mr. Wales?
WALES (_in front of chesterfield_). She's the most remarkable woman I
have ever known.
(_Enter_ BUTLER _from door_ L., _coming well on stage_).
BUTLER. Madame la Grange.
(_Enter_ MADAME ROSALIE LA GRANGE. _She is a woman of about fifty. She
speaks with a marked French accent_.)
ROSALIE. Good evening everybody. (_The men all rise_.)
MRS. CROSBY. How do you do, Madame la Grange?
ROSALIE. I am well, I thank you, madame.
MRS. CROSBY. Do come in.
ROSALIE. Thank you, madame. (_She sees_ WALES L.C., _and goes to him_.)
Good evening, Mister Wales. It was kind of you to send the motor-car for
me.
WALES. We wanted you to be comfortable.
ROSALIE. And I was. (_She laughs and turns to_ MRS. CROSBY R.C.) Do you
know, madame, when the gentleman in uniform come for me, I thought at
first it was a policeman.
MRS. CROSBY. I hope you weren't frightened.
(_The positions now are_: ROSALIE C., CROSBY R. _end of chesterfield_ C.
MRS. TRENT _and_ STANDISH _have moved down_ L. TRENT _comes to_ L. _of
arm-chair._ Miss ERSKINE _seated on chesterfield up_ C. MRS. CROSBY _at
table_ R. WALES L.C. _and_ MASON L.C.)
ROSALIE. Oh, no, madame. I should like to see the policeman that could
frighten me. They are nice boys, the policemen.
MISS EASTWOOD (_on the_ R. _side of_ ROSALIE). Mr. Wales tells us you
are wonderful.
ROSALIE. All women are.
MISS EASTWOOD (_with a meaning glance at the others_). So you tell
fortunes?
ROSALIE. No, mademoiselle, I do not. I get messages from those of us
that 'ave passed on. I do not 'old at all with the cards nor tea-leaves
nor any of those tricks.
(_All laugh_--MISS EASTWOOD _loudest_.)
Once in a while I give advice. (_She turns to_ MISS EASTWOOD.) If I was
you, mademoiselle, I would not meet Jimmy at the Ritz at three o'clock
to-morrow.
(_All laugh_. MISS STANDISH _crosses to chesterfield_ C. _and sits_.
Miss ERSKINE _rises and crosses to table_ R. _and sits in arm-chair
upper end._ MASON _moves up and sits on up stage chesterfield_. TRENT
_goes to_ L. _end of chesterfield_. MISS EASTWOOD _is in front of table_
R. ROSALIE _goes to_ WALES L.C. CROSBY _seats_ MRS. CROSBY _down stage
end of table_ R., _then crosses back of_ MISS ERSKINE _to upper end of
table_.)
Well, sir, and how are you?
WALES. We're expecting great things from you to-night, Madame la Grange.
ROSALIE. Bien! I hope you will not be disappointed.
CROSBY (_above table_ R., _coming_ C. _a step_). I suppose there are a
lot of tricks that--
ROSALIE (_interrupting him_). I suppose mine is the only trade in the
world in which there are tricks, eh, monsieur?
MISS EASTWOOD (_coming to_ ROSALIE C.). Why shouldn't I meet Jimmy at
the Ritz to-morrow?
ROSALIE. If you do, something awful may 'appen to 'im.
MISS EASTWOOD. What?
ROSALIE. If you keep meeting Jimmy 'e may marry you.
(MISS EASTWOOD _moves up stage a step_.)
CROSBY (_upper end of table_ R.). Would you mind telling me how you know
this young lady was going to meet Jimmy at the Ritz to-morrow afternoon?
ROSALIE. She did leave 'is letter in 'er bag in the 'all, and while I
wait I 'ave read it.
MISS EASTWOOD (C.). How did you know it was my bag?
ROSALIE. The stuff of the bag matches the stuff of your dress.
MRS. CROSBY (_seated below table_ R.). Then it is all trickery?
ROSALIE. It is, madame, and it is not. I tell you, madame, most of the
time it is tricks, with even the best of us. But there 'ave been times
in my life when it was not tricks. There 'ave been things I could not
understand myself, messages from them that 'ave passed on, madame. There
is a power--a wonderful power--that come to us. But you never can tell
when it is coming. And if you waited for it you would starve to death.
So when it is not there we use tricks.
MRS. CROSBY (_seated at lower end of table at_ R.). I think I
understand.
ROSALIE. Do you, madame? I thought you would.
(_She moves to and puts her hand-bag on the table_ R. MRS. TRENT,
_seated below door down_ L., _is joined by_ WALES. MASON _is standing in
front of the fireplace_.)
MISS EASTWOOD (_coming to_ R.C.). Don't you think all this is dishonest!
ROSALIE (_in front of table_ R., _turning to her_). What is dishonest in
it?
MISS EASTWOOD. Tricking a lot of poor ignorant people.
ROSALIE. It is all in the way you look at it. A widow woman came to me
this mornin' with a breaking 'eart for the man that was gone. I went
into a trance and Laughing Eyes, my spirit control, came with a message
from 'im. She said 'e was in heaven with the angels, and there was no
cold nor 'unger; and the streets were paved with gold, and there was
music and 'appiness everywhere. She told 'er he was thinking of 'er
every day and every hour and watching and waiting for the day she would
come to 'im. Now wasn't that worth fifty cents of any woman's money? And
the man may be in 'ell for all I know!
TRENT (L.C. _by arm-chair_). What I can't understand is why you are
telling us all this.
(MISS EASTWOOD _moves to the chesterfield_ C.)
MRS. TRENT (_seated over L. by door_). If we know you are fooling--
ROSALIE (_going to_ TRENT). Did not Mr. Wales tell you?
WALES (L.C.). I've told them nothing.
(MASON _drops down_ R. _of chesterfield_, STANDISH _down_ L. CROSBY _is_
R. _end of chesterfield_ C.)
ROSALIE (C.). Well, tell them now, if you please, sir. (_Moves to and
sits upper end of table and takes off her gloves_.)
WALES (_down_ L.). As I told you some time ago, Madame la Grange has
done a lot of things that we can't explain---when I asked her to come
here to-night, she said she would under certain conditions.
MASON (_between chesterfield and table_). You mean test conditions?
WALES. Not exactly. What she said was that no money should pass between
us, and that whatever she did, she would be honest.
MASON (_very eagerly, and moving towards_ ROSALIE). You mean that you
won't play any tricks?
ROSALIE. If I do, I will tell _you_.
MISS EASTWOOD (_seated on chesterfield_ C.). Of course we understand all
about spirit rappings.
ROSALIE. You do, eh?
STANDISH (_down_ L.). Well, rather.
(CROSBY _sits_ R. _end of chesterfield_.)
ROSALIE. Well, well, what do you think of that?
MISS EASTWOOD. You have to be near a table or something like that and--
ROSALIE. Maybe a chair or a desk would do?
MISS EASTWOOD. And then in the dark--
ROSALIE. But of course in the dark. And you get one rap for yes and two
raps for no. (_There is a short pause_. ROSALIE _rises, comes down_ C.
_and says_:) Are those spirits near?
(_All laugh_.)
STANDISH. Oh, no, don't.
(_One rap is heard from the back of the fireplace_.)
(_Little laugh_.)
MISS EASTWOOD. But--(_Rising and coming down_ L.C. _a step_.)
MASON. Oh, please keep still--
(_They gather a little closer around_ ROSALIE.)
ROSALIE. Is it Laughing Eyes?
(_One rap is heard--still louder_.)
And you cannot talk to me in the light?
(_One rap_.)
Are you 'appy?
(MRS. TRENT _rises_.)
(_Two raps again_.)
Is there someone here you do not like?
(_One rap_.)
A gentleman?
(_Two raps_.)
Dear, dear, a lady?
(_One rap_.)
(_She points to_ MISS EASTWOOD.)
Is it that one?
(_One rap_.)
Laughing Eyes she do not like you.
(_General laugh_.)
MASON (R.C.). That's the most wonderful thing I ever heard.
STANDISH (_down_ L.). Oh, I don't think--
MASON. It couldn't be a trick. She just stood there. I watched her hands
every minute.
(TRENT _goes to arm-chair_ L.C.)
ROSALIE. You did watch the wrong end of me. I 'ave a wooden sole in my
shoe. (_She lifts her skirt and shows that she has taken one foot from
her slipper_.) You do it with your foot. Like this. (_Laughingly_.) It
is a trick.
(MISS EASTWOOD _goes to_ WALES L.C. MRS. TRENT _moves up to armchair_
L.C. STANDISH _up to_ L. _end of chesterfield, and then by the back of
chesterfield to_ R.C., CROSBY C. MRS. CROSBY _is seated at table_ R.)
MASON (R.C.). Then if we get any messages--
ROSALIE. If you get any messages? Well, sir, I am telling you the truth
now. Most of the time it is a fake. With me as with the others. But
to-night there will be no fake. I am a stranger to all of you except to
Mr. Wales. I do not know who live in this 'ouse. I do not know the name
of any one of you. Mr. Wales told me he wanted me to come 'ere, he said
he would send for me. (_Moves to_ R. _end of chesterfield_.)
But 'e did not tell me one word about any of you;
WALES (_down_ L.). That is quite true.
TRENT (_by arm-chair_ L.C.). You haven't given her a hint of any sort?
WALES (L.). On my word of honour.
MASON (_above table_ R.). Madame la Grange.
ROSALIE. Yes, sir?
MASON. I know a man who saw Palladino lift a table just by putting her
hands on it.
(ROSALIE _points to a small console table_ R. _end of settee_--_it has a
lamp on it_. MISS EASTWOOD _is at the_ L. _end of chesterfield_.)
ROSALIE (_putting hand-bag on chair above table_ R.). Will someone
please take the lamp off that table? And will you bring it to me 'ere?
(MISS STANDISH _moves to and takes the lamp and holds it_. MASON
_brings console table to_ ROSALIE _who comes down_ C.--_the wide side
of the table to audience_. ROSALIE _puts her hands on table with her
thumbs under its edge and lifts the table and turns right and left_.)
You mean like that?
MASON. Yes, I suppose that was it.
ROSALIE. In the dark you would not 'ave noticed my thumbs.
(_All laugh_. Miss ERSKINE _is seated at the back of the table over_ R.)
But it can be done, it can be done. I do not say that I can do it in the
light, but if you want I will try.
ALL. Oh, yes, yes, of course, please do--yes, yes!
MASON. You mean without any trickery?
ROSALIE (_getting back of console table. Turning table around--narrow
side to audience_). I mean like this.
(_She places the tips of the fingers of both hands on the_ C. _of the
table and stands rigid for a few moments. No one speaks. All watch her
with breathless interest. Slowly the table tips a little to one side,
and then tips in the opposite direction. Then it slowly rises about a
foot from the floor, and then drops suddenly and falls over. There is
a long pause_.)
MASON (R. _of small table_). Good Lord!
WALES (L.C., _quietly_). What did I tell you?
(_There is a long pause, all turn towards_ ROSALIE _to see what she will
do next_. MASON _takes console table back to its place to the_ R. _end
of the chesterfield_. TRENT _and_ MRS. TRENT _are over_ L. STANDISH
_and_ CROSBY C.)
ROSALIE (C.). Now you all do know what I can do, but I can trick you
too; so you will 'ave to take my word for it that I will not. I am not
making to you any promises. I will go into the trance for you and it
will be the real trance and not a fake. My spirit does control a little
girl named Laughing Eyes.
CROSBY. Are you asking us to believe that the spirit of a dead child--
ROSALIE (C.). To them that believe there is no death. Your own religion
teaches you that.
CROSBY. But not that the spirits of the dead can come back to earth.
ROSALIE (_moves to chair upper end of table_ R. CROSBY _crosses to_ R.
_end of chesterfield_). Monsieur should go and read the Bible. I am not
going to argue with any of you. I did not come 'ere for argument. Most
of you do not believe. You are all of little faith; it is 'ard to get
messages then. Perhaps it would be best if I did go. (_Crosses to_ L.C.
STANDISH _has moved to the back of table_ R.)
MRS. CROSBY (_at table_ R.). Oh, no, please stay.
ROSALIE (_after hesitating_). Madame, I will be glad to.
(WILLIAM _and_ HELEN _enter_ R.C.)
TRENT (_down_ L. _of arm-chair_). And you're willing to submit
to our conditions?
ROSALIE. Of course, anything in reason--I--
HELEN (_coming down_ R.C.). Why!
(_At the sound of a new voice_ ROSALIE _turns. She gives a little
start, and then moves quickly to_ HELEN C.)
ROSALIE. Wait! Something is coming to me. Please--not anyone to speak!
(_All laugh_.)
(_She is close to_ HELEN _and looks at her_.) It is a message. Give me
your 'and, mademoiselle.
(HELEN _in a good deal of confusion gives_ ROSALIE _her hand_. ROSALIE
_stands and holds it. Her eyes are closed_.)
There is nothing but 'appiness coming to you. The spirits tell me you
are the favourite child of fortune.
(WILLIAM _comes down to_ R.C.)
You will 'ave wealth and prosperity and 'appiness. You will marry the
man you love, and you will be 'appy all your life,
(WALES _goes up_ L. TRENT _comes to_ ROSALIE _a step_. ROSALIE _turns to
the others_.)
There is something I want to tell 'er just for 'erself. She is so young,
we must spare her modesty.
(MRS. TRENT _goes up_ L. TRENT, MISS EASTWOOD, _and_ WALES _go up_ L.C.
ROSALIE _brings_ HELEN _down_ L. WILLIAM _joins_ CROSBY _and_ MRS.
CROSBY R. MISS ERSKINE _and_ STANDISH _are at the back of table_ R.)
(_The following lines are spoken by_ HELEN _and_ ROSALIE _in an
undertone_.)
HELEN. Mother!
ROSALIE. My darling, I did not know. They just brought me here. You know
I would not 'ave come for anything in the world if I 'ad known.
(HELEN _starts to break away_. ROSALIE _clutches her_.)
Don't tell them, dear, don't 'ave me shame you before all your wonderful
friends. I will go in one minute--I will get away from the 'ouse the
first minute I can.
HELEN. But, mother, there's no shame. I'm proud--
ROSALIE. Tell them afterwards if you must tell them, but let me get
away before you do so. (_In her normal voice again_.) Remember now,
mademoiselle, all the love in the world is 'anging above you and praying
for your 'appiness. Do not let it go for the love of 'Eaven.
(_Buzz of conversation_. ROSALIE _turns to_ WALES L. HELEN _stands
looking after her_. WILLIAM _comes to_ HELEN B.C.)
WILLIAM. What did she tell you?
HELEN. You heard most of it. I'll tell you the rest later.
(WILLIAM _and_ HELEN _go up_ R.C.)
ROSALIE. I think I 'ad better go from 'ere.
(MISS EASTWOOD _and_ TRENT _come down_ L.)
WALES. That's absurd. (_To the others_.) Madame la Grange wants to
call off the seance.
MISS EASTWOOD (_down_ L.). I thought she might.
(MASON _above table_ R.)
ROSALIE. Did you really, miss?
MRS. CROSBY. Oh, won't you please stay?
(WILLIAM _and_ HELEN R.C. MISS ERSKINE _above table_ R.)
ROSALIE (_coming_ C.). I am afraid I cannot, madame. I am not feeling
right. I am not just myself, madame.
WALES (L.C.). Really, Madame la Grange? I'm afraid under the
circumstances--
ROSALIE (_getting hand-bag from chair_). I am very sorry, but I must go
from 'ere.
MISS EASTWOOD (_moving_ L. _of_ ROSALIE). I think it's a shame to bother
her. And I think she's quite right to go. Her sort of tricks aren't for
people of intelligence.
HELEN. Oh, won't you please stay? (_To_ ROSALIE _now_ C.)
ROSALIE. I must not.
HELEN. Won't you as a great favour to me?
ROSALIE. Well, miss, since you ask it, I will stay.
(MISS EASTWOOD _laughs. She and_ TRENT _go up_ L. CROSBY _is by
chesterfield_ C. MASON _below table_ R. MRS. CROSBY _is seated at lower
end of table_. MRS. TRENT _comes to arm-chair_ L.C. _and sits_.)
MRS. CROSBY. I'm very glad. Really I'm greatly interested.
ROSALIE (_crosses_ R.). Thank you, madame.
CROSBY (_coming down_ C.). I think after what we've seen, we must ask
Madame la Grange to submit to certain conditions.
ROSALIE. Anything at all, sir--anything at all.
MASON (_down_ R.). I agree with you. Frankly this woman impresses me.
I think this test should be taken seriously.
(MISS EASTWOOD _at the_ L. _end of the chesterfield, laughs_.)
WALES (L.C.). Just what I was going to say.
CROSBY (R.C.). If you will submit to the conditions we impose, Madame la
Grange, and then show us any manifestations, I will never scoff at
anything again.
ROSALIE. Scoffing is the easiest thing anybody can do.
(CROSBY _crosses down_ R. _below table_.)
If I could stop that even in one person, it would be a good thing. What
is it that you do want?
CROSBY. I want the window fastened.
MASON. That's the idea.
CROSBY (_coming in front of table_ R.). Then we will have the doors
locked. Will that be all right?
ROSALIE. Oh, certainly all right.
MISS EASTWOOD (_coming down_ L.C.). At the risk of seeming unnecessarily
sceptical, I'm going to suggest that we search Madame la Grange--that
is, of course, if she's willing.
(MISS ERSKINE _and_ MISS STANDISH _are at back of table_ R.)
ROSALIE (C.). But why not? There are no 'oles in my stockings.
(_All laugh_.)
MASON (_down_ R.). I suppose it's going to be difficult for you to get
results if we are all so antagonistic, Madame la Grange?
(MISS EASTWOOD _goes up_ L.C.)
ROSALIE. It is, sir, and it is not. If there is any who wants to
communicate with any 'ere, maybe they can reach us. I do not know. I do
not understand you. I showed you all the tricks; would I have done that,
if I wanted to--to--fool you? Certainly I would not. Then why will you
not believe that I am 'onest?
WALES (_down_ L.). I'm sure Madame la Grange is perfectly honest.
We've made certain stipulations to which she has agreed. I think we've
discussed matters enough already. We're ready if you are, Madame la
Grange.
ROSALIE. I am ready.
(CROSBY _looks at window fastenings_ R.)
MRS. CROSBY (_seated at table over_ R.). Do you know, I don't believe it
will be necessary to subject Madame la Grange to being searched. I'm
quite sure we can spare her that indignity.
ROSALIE. I do not mind if you fine ladies will not be shocked at seeing
my plain lingerie.
(WALES _moves up_ L. _General laugh_. Miss ERSKINE _joins_ WILLIAM _and_
HELEN R.C.)
MRS. CROSBY (_moving to_ L. _of_ ROSALIE C.). Come with me then, please.
I'm sure we won't be shocked. (_Aside to_ ROSALIE.) I wear that kind
myself.
ROSALIE. Truly, madame?
(_They go to door_ L.)
MRS. CROSBY (_at door_ L.), We shan't be long.
ROSALIE (_at door_ L.). Madame, would you mind if all the ladies come?
Then they will all be sure I am concealing nothing.
(_The ladies all talk together and go out_ L. WALES _closes the door
down_ L. CROSBY _comes from lack of table_ R. _to chesterfield_.)
WILLIAM (_by table_ R.). Do you really want that window fastened?
(STANDISH _is behind the chair below the table_ R.)
WALES (L.C. CROSBY _and_ TRENT _sit on corner of chesterfield_). I don't
care.
MASON (_at table_ R.). I'd like to make the test that way. I've a queer
feeling about that woman. I believe she really has power of some sort.
I know it seems funny, but--well, you all saw her lift that table.
I watched her carefully. There was no trick about it at all. I'm sure
of it.
CROSBY. All right then. You fasten the window. Billy, you and Brad go
and get some chairs out of the dining-room. We'll need a lot.
(WALES _walks up and down_ L. _of stage_. WILLIAM _and_ TRENT _go out
door_ R.C.)
You put them in a circle, don't you? (_Begins to place chairs in a
circle_ C. _The chair_ L. _of the fireplace is brought down and placed
in front of the chesterfield_.) What are you going to do, Wales? Ask her
a lot of questions?
WALES (L.). I'm going to try to find out who killed Spencer Lee.
CROSBY. Still harping on the murder of Spencer Lee?
(STANDISH _places the chairs above and below the table in the circle,
then the chair on the_ R. _side of the fireplace in the circle_.)
WALES. Yes.
MASON (_over_ R.--_opening window curtains and raising window blind_).
Who was Spencer Lee?
WALES. The best friend I ever had.
(TRENT _and_ WILLIAM _enter door_ R.C., _each carrying two chairs. They
bring them down_ R.C. _and exit_ R.C.)
STANDISH (_placing chairs_ C. _with backs to audience_). We all knew Lee
pretty well. And I know he was no good.
WALES (_moving to_ L.C., _outside the circle_). You mustn't talk like
that about him, Standish!
CROSBY (_inside the circle and coming down_ C.). The man's dead: why not
let him rest in peace?
(STANDISH _outside of circle_ L.C. _seat_.)
STANDISH. I didn't bring up the matter, you know, and I don't want to
hurt Ned's feelings, but I know that the police found a lot of
compromising letters and rotten things of that sort.
(WILLIAM _and_ TRENT _re-enter from_ R.C., _each carrying two chairs._
WILLIAM _crosses and places two chairs_ R. _side of circle then goes
back to close the door_.)
WALES (L.C.). I don't care what they found, or what anyone thinks of
Lee: he was my best friend, and if I can find out who killed him I'm
going to do it. It was a damned brutal murder, stabbed in the back, poor
chap, with never a chance to fight for his life. (_Moves over_ L.)
MASON (_by table_ R.). I don't seem to remember anything about the case.
WALES. It happened before you got back from France--no, by Jove, it
didn't either. It was a day or two after. I remember you and I had lunch
together the day you got home and I had dinner that night with Spencer.
Funny you don't remember anything about it.
(WILLIAM _sits_ R. _in circle_.)
MASON. Well, of course, I must have seen it in the papers, but I don't
go in much for crimes, and not knowing the man I wasn't interested.
STANDISH (_sitting in circle_ L.C.). It was a good deal of a sensation.
The man knew a lot of nice people. Came here a good deal, didn't he,
Mr. Crosby?
CROSBY (_sitting in circle up_ C.). At one time. But after Helen married
he rather dropped out of it. Fact is, until Trent here appeared on the
scene he was always hanging around.
(TRENT _comes down and sits in_ R. _side of circle_.)
STANDISH. Funny they never found out who killed him.
WALES (_standing outside of circle_, L. _side_). They may not. They
haven't stopped trying.
MASON (_seated on table_ R.). Oh, are the police still interested?
WALES. Yes, they're interested. As a matter of fact there's a reward of
five thousand dollars for the discovery of the murderers.
STANDISH. Are you sure of that?
WALES. I offered it.
TRENT. You?
WALES. Yes. What sort of a man do you think I am? Do you expect me to
sit still and let the murderers of Spencer Lee go free? Why, I'd known
the man all his life. We were the closest friends.
WILLIAM. But if he was the kind of a man that Standish says--
WALES. I don't give a damn what he was. He was my friend, and I'm never
going to rest till I find out who killed him.
TRENT. But.
WALES. I wouldn't care so much if they'd given the poor devil half a
chance for his life, but they stabbed him in the back.
MASON. Wasn't there any indication--
WALES. There wasn't a thing to show who did it, or how it was done. A
knife-wound between the shoulder-blades and no knife ever found. Nothing
stolen, nothing disturbed. The police have found out that a young woman
called to see him that afternoon, two or three hours before his body was
discovered. That's all that we know.
TRENT (_with a laugh--still seated in circle_). And now you're going to
try spiritualism?
WALES. Why not? (_There is a pause._) Do any of you object?
TRENT. Certainly not. I'm rather for it.
MASON (_rises, still on_ L. _of table_ R.). You are doing this
seriously? This is not a joke?
WALES. Quite seriously. (_There is a pause._) Well, why won't somebody
laugh?
CROSBY. My dear fellow, why should anyone laugh? This queer old woman
may have powers of which we know nothing at all. Personally, I haven't
much belief in that sort of thing, but I'm not going to laugh at it.
(_Rise._) Neither am I going to have any trickery, or if there is any
I'm going to expose it.
WALES (_over_ L.). That's perfectly fair.
CROSBY. You've been at her séances, or whatever they call them, before?
WALES. Yes.
CROSBY. In the dark?
WALES. Invariably.
CROSBY. I may want light. (_He turns to his son._) Billy, if I call for
lights you give them to me. Don't wait for anything. Understand?
WILLIAM. Perfectly, dad.
(WILLIAM _goes up to small table_ R. _of chesterfield. Brings table with
lamp on it down to his chair and the chair next to it in the circle_.)
CROSBY (_still in circle._) That's all right then.
(_The door_ L. _opens_. MRS. CROSBY _enters, followed by_ MADAME LA
GRANGE _and the other ladies_. WALES _moves to_ R.C. _outside circle_,
STANDISH _to upper end of table_ R., TRENT _to_ L. _side of circle_.)
MRS. CROSBY. I think it wasn't fair of us.
ROSALIE. Oh, madame, I did not mind.
(MRS. CROSBY _crosses back of chesterfield to up_ R.C.)
MISS EASTWOOD (_down_ L.). I can assure you there isn't anything up her
sleeve.
ROSALIE. Well, what did you expect? Burglar's tools?
(MISS EASTWOOD _goes up to_ L. _end of chesterfield_. MRS. TRENT _closes
door down_ L. _She and_ HELEN _move up_ L. _with_ Miss STANDISH.)
WALES (_over_ R.). Madame la Grange, we've fastened the windows.
(TRENT, STANDISH, ERSKINE _by console table_ L. _of chesterfield_.)
ROSALIE. That is right. You cannot be too careful, eh?
CROSBY. And now, if you don't mind, I'm going to lock the doors and keep
the keys in my pocket.
ROSALIE. Anything you do wish, sir. It is all the same to me.
(_Goes inside circle and sits down up_ C. _in circle_.)
MASON (R.C.). May I see that it's done, Mr. Crosby?
CROSBY (L.C., _with a laugh_). Can't you trust me?
MASON. It isn't that--I--well, I just want to be sure. To see for myself.
CROSBY. Lock that one yourself, then. (_Indicating door_ R.C. MASON
_goes to and locks the door_. CROSBY _goes to door_ L.C., _locks it,
takes out the key and puts it in his pocket_.) Better try it, Mason.
(MASON _crosses to door_ L.C.--_shows it is locked_.) Now well do this
one. (_He starts to door down_ L. _Then stops suddenly_.) No, I've got a
better way than this. My dear, will you ring for Pollock?
MRS. CROSBY (_upper end of table_ R.). What are you going to do now?
CROSBY. Wait and see. (_To_ ROSALIE.) You don't object to this?
ROSALIE. Oh, no, sir.
(BUTLER _enters from door_ L.--_comes well on stage_.)
CROSBY. Oh, Pollock, I want you to put these keys in your pocket.
(_Hands them to him_. POLLOCK _puts them in his waistcoat pocket_.)
POLLOCK. Yes, sir.
CROSBY (L.C.). Now then, I want you to take the key out of that door,
and lock it on the outside, understand?
POLLOCK. Perfectly, sir.
CROSBY. Then take the key from the lock and put that one in your pocket
also, after that you are to stand outside that door, and you are not to
unlock it until I tell you to. Understand?
POLLOCK. Yes, sir, I'm to lock this door on the outside, keep the key in
my pocket, and then stay just outside, and not open it for anyone until
you tell me.
CROSBY. Exactly. (_General buzz of conversation._ POLLOCK _goes to the
door_ L., _takes out the key and exits, closing the door after him. The
key is heard turning in the lock._) Now then, Mason, you'd better try
that door, too. (MASON _goes over and tries the door_ L. CROSBY _follows
him. Speaking through the door_ L.) Are you there, Pollock?
POLLOCK (_outside._) Yes, sir.
CROSBY. And the keys are in your pocket?
POLLOCK. Quite so, sir.
CROSBY. Now we're ready, Madame la Grange.
ROSALIE. Then please you will all sit in a circle and hold hands.
MISS ERSKINE. Hold hands! I'm going to love this.
(_All laugh._)
MASON (_moving down to a chair on the_ L. _of the circle_). How shall we
sit? I mean, do you want us in any particular order?
ROSALIE. Any way at all.
WILLIAM. I'll sit here. (_Takes chair and sits in reach of lamp on
table_ R.C.)
ROSALIE. Any way will do.
(HELEN _and_ MRS. TRENT _come down_ L.)
(_They all sit in a circle in the following order_: ROSALIE, C.; CROSBY
L. _of_ ROSALIE; MISS ERSKINE, MISS STANDISH, TRENT, MISS EASTWOOD;
MASON; HELEN; MRS. TRENT; STANDISH _and_ MRS. CROSBY; WILLIAM _sits on_
ROSALIE'S _right side. This will bring_ WALES _sitting at_ C. _with his
back to the audience_. ROSALIE _directly opposite up stage facing him.
The thirteen chairs in the circle consist of two brought from the
fireplace, two from the table_ R., _eight from the room_ R.C., _and the
armchair_ L.C., _which is moved_ C. _and used by_ ROSALIE. _As they are
being seated there is a general buzz of conversation as follows_:--)
MISS ERSKINE. I'm to sit next to you, Mr. Crosby.
CROSBY. I've always wanted to hold your hand, my dear.
MRS. CROSBY. Don't trust him, Daisy.
MISS ERSKINE. I won't, Mrs. Crosby.
MISS STANDISH. I'll chaperone them.
MASON (_to_ HELEN). Will you sit by me?
TRENT. I'll take this place then.
MISS EASTWOOD. I'm really getting quite a thrill. (ROSALIE _laughs_.)
What's the joke, Madame la Grange?
(MRS. TRENT _moves outside of circle to_ R.C., _then sits_.)
ROSALIE. I did not know anything could give to you a thrill.
MISS EASTWOOD. You don't like me, do you, Madame la Grange?
ROSALIE. Oh, mademoiselle, I am indeed very fond of you.
WALES (_standing below circle_ R.C.). I think we're all ready.
(_The others are all seated and_ WALES _is about to sit down_.)
MISS ERSKINE (_counting hurriedly_). Oh! There are thirteen of us. Don't
sit there, Mr. Wales.
WALES. Oh, I don't mind those little superstitions. (_Sits down stage
side of circle between_ HELEN _and_ MRS. TRENT.)
MRS. CROSBY. What do we do now?
ROSALIE. Now, will you please all join your 'ands, and then sit very,
_very_ quiet. Do not try to think of anything.
TRENT. By Jove, that'll be easy for me.
(_The others laugh_.)
WALES. We can't get any results if you treat this as a joke.
(_All laugh_.)
STANDISH. Oh, let's be serious.
MISS ERSKINE. Why, Howard?
STANDISH. Well, there might be something in it. Anyhow, it's only fair
to do what Madame la Grange wants. I suppose you'd like the lights out?
I've always understood that was necessary.
ROSALIE. We shall 'ave better results in that way.
CROSBY. Right! (_He rises, goes to door_ L., _and switches off light.
This leaves only the two table lamps_ R. _and_ L. _of the chesterfield_
C. _still lit. All other lights on scene out. Crosses back to his
chair--turns out table lamp_ L. _of chesterfield._) Billy, you turn out
that light as soon as we are ready.
WILLIAM. Right you are, dad.
ROSALIE. That is all, then. Now you are not to be afraid if I cry or
moan when I do go into a trance. I am not in pain or anything like that.
I do not even know that I do such things, but I 'ave been told that
it sometime 'appen. My spirit control is a sweet little child named
Laughing Eyes. When she begins to talk you can ask 'er anything you do
want. If she do not answer you she do not want to talk to you. Then
whoever it is speaking must let someone else try. That is all, ladies
and gentlemen. (_She settles back in her chair._) Now then, sir,
please to put out that light.
(WILLIAM _turns off the light, and the stage is in darkness all but
spots on ceiling._)
CROSBY. That won't do. Billy, pull down the blind, that light on the
ceiling is too strong.
(WILLIAM _turns on light, crosses_ R., _pulls blind down and closes
curtains, then resumes his seat and puts light out._ ROSALIE _rises,
crosses back of circle to the back of_ MISS EASTWOOD'S _chair. There
is a pause. Suddenly_ MISS EASTWOOD _screams shrilly._)
MISS EASTWOOD. There's a hand on my face. There's a hand on my face!
CROSBY. Will, the light!
(_The light on the table goes up, showing_ WILLIAM _leaning back in his
chair with one hand on the switch, the other is tightly clasped in his
father's hand._ ROSALIE _is seen standing behind_ MISS EASTWOOD, _with
her hand resting on_ MISS EASTWOOD'S _cheek._)
(_They all start to speak._)
MRS. TRENT. It's a trick.
ROSALIE. Yes, it is a trick. (_They stop and stare at her. Her manner is
commanding, and a little stern._) I was going to ask you to tie my 'ands
to the arm of the chair, but I thought I would show you this first.
MASON. I don't see how you did it--even now.
ROSALIE (_standing outside of circle_ L.). Things 'appen in the dark.
The sense of touch is not much developed except in those who are blind.
When this young gentleman did let go my 'and to turn out the light,
I did take my other 'and away from Mr. Crosby and when we joined 'ands
again the two gentlemen were 'olding 'ands as comfortable as you please.
And I was free. It is an old trick. All the mediums do use it. Anyone
can do it. (_She moves back to her chair and sits._) Now, if someone
will tie me in, we will go on.
MASON. How do we know that you can't get free even then?
ROSALIE. Tie me so that I cannot.
CROSBY (_rising_). I'll see to that. I want something strong.
MASON. Take handkerchiefs, they are strong enough. (_Takes handkerchief._)
CROSBY. They'll do very well. (_Takes out his own._) I want three more.
WILLIAM. Here's mine. (_Hands his handkerchief to his father._ MASON
_and_ TRENT _give_ CROSBY _theirs._)
CROSBY. Now, Madame la Grange, if you don't mind. (_He ties her hands to
the arm of the chair._) I don't see why you did that just now.
ROSALIE. I told you I wanted to be sure.
CROSBY. Why?
ROSALIE. Because I think something is going to 'appen. I think there
will be manifestations. I wanted you to know I was not faking.
MISS EASTWOOD. Why should we think that you were?
ROSALIE. Why, you 'ave thought nothing else ever since I did come into
the room.
CROSBY. Mason, see if she can get free from that now.
(MASON _comes over, inspects the knot._ CROSBY _tying the other hand._)
MASON. That seems pretty secure--someone else look at it.
(WILLIAM _and_ TRENT _rise and go to_ ROSALIE'S _chair._)
CROSBY. I'm going to fasten your ankles now, Madame la Grange.
ROSALIE. Yes, that is right.
(CROSBY _ties_ ROSALIE'S _ankles to leg of chair. The other two men look
on._)
WALES. I don't believe all this is necessary.
ROSALIE. Why not, if they do want it.
CROSBY. Now I'm sure she can't get away.
(MASON _inspects knot._)
MASON. So am I.
(_The men resume their places._)
ROSALIE. Well, now, if you will all sit down, please-- (_Pause._)
You will have to reach over and take my hands this time--are you all
satisfied now? Is there anything more you want me to do? (_There is no
answer._) Then if you will all sit quiet, just keep your minds perfectly
free, that is all you 'ave to do. Now, sir, please to turn out the light.
(WILLIAM _turns out the light._)
(_There is a long pause._ ROSALIE _moans and whispers as if in pain._)
HELEN. I can't stand this, I--
WALES. Please keep still--she asked us to keep still.
(ROSALIE _moans again; after a short pause, she gives a choking sob;
another pause. Finally she speaks with frequent pauses, using the
voice of a little child._)
ROSALIE. Laughing Eyes is sad, very sad. I a ma long way off--a long
way. (_Pause._) Bad people, bad people, un'appy--he is un'appy--
(_Pause._) (_Knife is set down in sight of audience, sticking in the
ceiling._) Spencer wants to tell Ned-- (_She moans heavily._) It
hurts--terrible--like a knife--it burns--burns, in the back--
(_A man's voice from the chesterfield, facing fireplace, speaks:_)
VOICE. Ned, I want Ned--why in _Hell_ doesn't Ned answer?
ROSALIE (_in child's voice_). He wants to talk to Ned--is Ned here?
STANDISH. Ned who? Who is it? Who does he want to speak to?
ROSALIE (_in child's voice_). Tell Ned it is Spencer--Spencer wants
to tell Ned about the letters and the pain in the back--in the back.
STANDISH. What was in the back? (_There is no answer._) Ask him what was
in the back?
ROSALIE (_still using child's voice_). The knife--Ned--he wants Ned.
WALES. What do you want!
ROSALIE. A swimming pool--do not forget the swimming pool. Do not ever
forget--
WALES. You mean the time he went in after me when I was drowning? When
we were little boys? Is that what he wants me to remember?
ROSALIE. Spencer says he cannot rest--he wants to tell you it is hard to
reach--too far away--you promised--
WALES. Promised what? When did I promise!
ROSALIE. Your life saved--
WALES. Now I know--I told him I'd do anything in the world for him.
Spencer, of course, I remember--what do you want me to do?
ROSALIE. Find--find--
WALES. Do you want me to find the letters?
ROSALIE. In the back--someone came--someone came.
WALES. You're trying to tell who killed you?
ROSALIE. Ask--ask--ask.
WALES. You want me to ask questions? Is that it? You mean you can't talk
much?
ROSALIE. Too far away.
CROSBY. You know who killed you?
(_There is a pause, but no answer._)
ROSALIE. He says Ned, he wants Ned.
WALES. You want me to ask.
ROSALIE. He wants Ned to ask.
WALES. Do you know who killed you?
MRS. TRENT (_hysterically_). Oh, my God!
CROSBY. Keep still, Helen.
WALES. Can you tell the name? (ROSALIE _suddenly gives a long moan._)
Quick, the name, the name. Spencer, tell me who killed you--she's coming
out of her trance. I want the name. (ROSALIE _moans again. Her cry is
overtopped by a shriek from_ WALES.) Oh, my God! My back--oh! (_Then
there is a dead silence that lasts as long as it will hold._)
CROSBY. Wales, is anything the matter?
MRS. TRENT. Father, he's pulling at my hand.
CROSBY. The light, Will.
(WILLIAM _suddenly turns on the light at table._ WALES _is discovered
leaning forward, the circle is unbroken._)
MRS. TRENT. Look at him! Father! Look at him!
(CROSBY _drops_ ROSALIE'S _hand and springs forward towards_ WALES.
_At the same instant_ WALES _falls forward on his face to the floor.
The others all rise, chairs are knocked over in the confusion which
follows._)
CROSBY. Stand back, please. (_The others move back a little._ CROSBY
_leans over_ WALES.) Why, he--why--it's impossible.
MRS. CROSBY. Roscoe, look at your hand.
(CROSBY _looks at his hand, takes out his handkerchief and wipes it
hurriedly, then crosses suddenly to the door_ L. ROSALIE _has come out
of her trance and sits staring at_ WALES _as he lies on the floor in
front of her. The two figures are thrown out from the shadows of the
room by the light on the table at the back of_ MADAME LA GRANGE. _The
rest of the room is in semi-darkness._ TRENT _kneels by_ WALES' _body._)
CROSBY. Pollock! Pollock!
POLLOCK (_outside_). Yes, sir.
(TRENT _turns_ WALES' _body over on back._)
CROSBY. Get on the 'phone at once and call up Police Headquarters. Get
Inspector Donohue if you can. Tell him to come to the house at once.
POLLOCK. Very good, sir.
(CROSBY _turns away from the door, and faces the others who have
followed him over._)
WILLIAM. Father, what do you suppose it is? Are you sure that--
MRS. TRENT. It can't be. He was talking and--
MRS. CROSBY. Roscoe, are you sure? Hadn't we better send for a doctor?
(TRENT _is leaning over_ WALES' _body on the floor._)
TRENT. It's no use. He's dead.
CROSBY. Murdered!
TRENT (_rises_). What?
CROSBY. Mr. Wales was stabbed in the back, just as Spencer Lee was
stabbed in the back.
STANDISH. Just as he was asking--just when he was trying to find out
who--
(_There is a knock on the door down_ L.)
CROSBY. What is it?
POLLOCK (_outside of door_). Inspector Donohue was at the Fifty-first
Street Station, sir. He's on his way here. (_There is a pause_). Shall
I unlock the door, sir?
CROSBY. _No_--not until the Inspector tells you.
CURTAIN.