The Easiest Way Walter, Eugene Derived Text Format to access the structural information conversion Mathias Göbel TextGrid CC-BY-4.0 Lizenzvertrag Eugene Walter, 1874 – 1941 Montrose Jonas Moses, 1878 – 1934 The Easiest Way: An American Play Concerning a Particular Phase of New York Life in Four Acts and Four Scenes by Eugene Walter [in, Representative Plays by American Dramatists: Edited, with an Introduction to Each Play by Montrose J. Moses: 1856 – 1911 ...] London Benjamin Blom 3 v. MRS. FARLEY. ANNIE'S VOICE. MRS. FARLEY'S VOICE. JOHN. ELFIE. JIM. WILL. LAURA. SAME VOICE. MRS. WILLIAMS. JIM'S VOICE. MADISON. ELFIE'S VOICE. ANNIE. Realistic Prose data extraction from source 1964 First performed: January 19, 1909
CHARACTERS. LAURA MURDOCK. ELFIE ST. CLAIR. ANNIE. WILLARD BROCKTON. JOHN MADISON. JIM WESTON.
DESCRIPTION OF CHARACTERS.

LAURA MURDOCK, twenty-five years of age, is a type not uncommon in the theatrical life of New York, and one which has grown in importance in the profession since the business of giving public entertainments has been so reduced to a commercial basis.

At an early age she came from Australia to San Francisco. She possessed a considerable beauty and an aptitude for theatrical accomplishment which soon raised her to a position of more or less importance in a local stock company playing in that city. A woman of intense superficial emotions, her imagination was without any enduring depths, but for the passing time she could place herself in an attitude of great affection and devotion. Sensually, the woman had marked characteristics, and, with the flattery that surrounded her, she soon became a favourite in the select circles which made such places as "The Poodle Dog" and "Zinkand's" famous. In general dissipation, she was always careful not in any way to indulge in excesses which would jeopardize her physical attractiveness, or for one moment to diminish her sense of keen worldly calculation.

In time she married. It was, of course, a failure. Her vacillating nature was such that she could not be absolutely true to the man to whom she had given her life, and, after several bitter experiences, she had the horror of seeing him kill himself in front of her. There was a momentary spasm of grief, a tidal wave of remorse, and then the peculiar recuperation of spirits, beauty and attractiveness that so marks this type of woman. She was deceived by other men in many various ways, and finally came to that stage of life that is known in theatrical circles as being "wised up."

At nineteen, the attention of a prominent theatrical manager being called to her, she took an important part in a New York production, and immediately gained considerable reputation. The fact that, before reaching the age of womanhood, she had had more escapades than most women have in their entire lives was not generally known in New York, nor was there a mark upon her face or a single coarse mannerism to betray it. She was soft-voiced, very pretty, very girlish. Her keen sense of worldly calculation led her to believe that in order to progress in her theatrical career she must have some influence outside of her art and dramatic accomplishment; so she attempted, with no little success, to infatuate a hard-headed, blunt and supposedly invincible theatrical manager, who, in his cold, stolid way, gave her what love there was in him. This, however, not satisfying her, she played two ends against the middle, and, finding a young man of wealth and position who could give her, in his youth, the exuberance and joy utterly apart from the character of the theatrical manager, she adopted him, and for a while lived with him. Exhausting his money, she cast him aside, always spending a certain part of the time with the theatrical manager. The young man became crazed, and, at a restaurant, tried to murder all of them.

From that time up to the opening of the play, her career was a succession of brilliant coups in gaining the confidence and love, not to say the money, of men of all ages and all walks in life. Her fascination was as undeniable as her insincerity of purpose. She had never made an honest effort to be an honest woman, although she imagined herself always persecuted, the victim of circumstances, — and was always ready to excuse any viciousness of character which led her into her peculiar difficulties. While acknowledged to be a mistress of her business — that of acting — from a purely technical point of view, her lack of sympathy, her abuse of her dramatic temperament in her private affairs, had been such as to make it impossible for her sincerely to impress audiences with real emotional power, and, therefore, despite the influences which she always had at hand, she remained a mediocre artist.

At the time of the opening of our play, she has played a summer engagement with a stock company in Denver, which has just ended. She has met JOHN MADISON, a man of about twenty-seven years of age, whose position is that of a dramatic critic on one of the local papers. LAURA MURDOCK, with her usual wisdom, started to fascinate JOHN MADISON, but has found that, for once in her life, she has met her match.

JOHN MADISON is good to look at, frank, virile, but a man of broad experience, and not to be hookwinked. For the first time LAURA MURDOCK feels that the shoe is pinching the other foot, and, without any possible indication of reciprocal affection, she has been slowly falling desperately, madly, honestly and decently in love with him. She has for the past two years been the special favourite and mistress of WILLARD BROCKTON. The understanding is one of pure friendship. He is a man who has a varied taste in the selection of his women; is honest in a general way, and perfectly frank about his amours. He has been most generous with LAURA MURDOCK, and his close relations with several very prominent theatrical managers have made it possible for him to secure her desirable engagements, generally in New York. With all her past experiences, tragic and otherwise, LAURA MURDOCK has found nothing equal to this sudden, this swiftly increasing, love for the young Western man. At first she attempted to deceive him. Her baby face, her masterful assumption of innocence and childlike devotion, made no impression upon him. He has let her know in no uncertain way that he knew her record from the day she stepped on American soil in San Francisco to the time when she had come to Denver, but still he liked her.

JOHN MADISON is a peculiar type of the Western man. Up to the time of his meeting LAURA, he had always been employed either in the mines or on a newspaper west of the Mississippi River. He is one of those itinerant reporters; to-day you might find him in Seattle, to-morrow in Butte, the next week in Denver, and then possibly he would make the circuit from Los Angeles to 'Frisco, and then all around again. He drinks his whiskey straight, plays his faro fairly, and is not particular about the women with whom he goes. He started life in the Western country at an early age. His natural talents, both in literature and in general adaptability to all conditions of life, were early exhibited, but his alma mater was the bar-room, and the faculty of that college its bartenders and gamblers and general habitués.

He seldom has social engagements outside of certain disreputable establishments, where a genial personality or an overburdened pocketbook gives entrée , and the rules of conventionality have never even been whispered. His love affairs, confined to this class of women, have seldom lasted more than a week or ten days. His editors know him as a brilliant genius, irresponsible, unreliable, but at times inestimably valuable. He cares little for personal appearance beyond a certain degree of neatness. He is quick on the trigger, and in a time of over heated argument can go some distance with his fists; in fact, his whole career is best described as "happy-go-lucky."

He realizes fully his ability to do almost anything fairly well, and some things especially well, but he has never tried to accomplish anything beyond the earning of a comfortable living. Twenty-five or thirty dollars a week was all he needed. With that he could buy his liquor, treat his women, sometimes play a little faro, sit up all night and sleep all day, and in general lead the life of good-natured vagabondage which has always pleased him and which he had chosen as a career.

The objection of safer and saner friends to this form of livelihood was always met by him with a slap on the back and a laugh. "Don't you worry about me, partner; if I'm going to hell I'm going there with bells on," was always his rejoinder; and yet, when called upon to cover some great big news story, or report some vital event, he settled down to his work with a steely determination and a grim joy that resulted in work which classified him as a genius. Any great mental effort of this character, any unusual achievement along these lines, would be immediately followed by a protracted debauch that would upset him physically and mentally for weeks at a time, but he always recovered and landed on his feet, and with the same laugh and smile again went at his work.

If there have been opportunities to meet decent women of good social standing, he has always thrown them aside with the declaration that they bore him to death, and there never had entered into his heart a feeling or idea of real affection until he met LAURA. He fell for a moment under the spell of her fascination, and then, with cold logic, he analyzed her, and found out that, while outwardly she had every sign of girlhood, — ingenuousness, sweetness of character and possibility of affection, — spiritually and mentally she was nothing more than a moral wreck. He observed keenly her efforts to win him and her disappointment at her failure — not that she cared so much for him personally, but that it hurt her vanity not to be successful with this good-for-nothing, good-natured vagabond, when men of wealth and position she made kneel at her feet. He observed her slowly-changing point of view: how from a kittenish ingenuousness she became serious, womanly, really sincere. He knew that he had awakened in her her first decent affection, and he knew that she was awakening in him his first desire to do things and be big and worth while. So together these two began to drift toward a path of decent dealing, decent ambition, decent thought, and decent love, until at last they both find themselves, and acknowledge all the wickedness of what had been, and plan for all the virtue and goodness of what is to be. It is at this point that our first act begins.

ELFIE ST. CLAIR is a type of a Tenderloin grafter in New York, who, after all, has been more sinned against than sinning; who, having been imposed upon, deceived, ill-treated and bulldozed by the type of men who prey on women in New York, has turned the tables, and with her charm and her beauty has gone out to make the same slaughter of the other sex as she suffered with many of her sisters.

She is a woman without a moral conscience, whose entire life is dictated by a small mental operation. Coming to New York as a beautiful girl, she entered the chorus. She became famous for her beauty. On every hand were the stage-door vultures ready to give her anything that a woman's heart could desire, from clothes to horses, carriages, money and what-not; but, with a girl-like instinct, she fell in love with a man connected with the company, and, during all the time she might have profited and become a rich woman by the attentions of these outsiders, she remained true to her love, until finally her fame as the beauty of the city had waned. The years told on her to a certain extent, and there were others coming, as young as she had been and as good to look at; and, where the automobile of the millionaire had once been waiting for her, she found that, through her faithfulness to her lover, it was now there for some one else. Yet she was content with her joys, until finally the man deliberately jilted her and left her alone.

What had gone of her beauty had been replaced by a keen knowledge of human nature and of men, so she determined to give herself up entirely to a life of gain. She knows just how much champagne should be drunk without injuring one's health. She knows just what physical necessities should be indulged in to preserve to the greatest degree her remaining beauty. There is no trick of the hair-dresser, the modiste, the manicurist, or any one of the legion of people who devote their time to aiding the outward fascinations of women, which she does not know. She knows exactly what perfumes to use, what stockings to wear, how she should live, how far she should indulge in any dissipation; and all this she has determined to devote to profit. She knows that as an actress she has no future; that the time of a woman's beauty is limited. Conscious that she has already lost the youthful litheness of figure which had made her so fascinating in the past, she has laid aside every sentiment, physical and spiritual, and has determined to choose a man as her companion who has the biggest bank-roll and the most liberal nature. His age, his station in life, the fact whether she likes or dislikes him, do not enter into this scheme at all. She figures that she has been made a fool of by men, and that there is only one revenge, — the accumulation of a fortune to make her independent of them once and for all. There are, of course, certain likes and dislikes that she enjoys, and in a way she indulges them. There are men whose company she cares for, but their association is practically sexless and has come down to a point of mere good fellowship.

WILLARD BROCKTON, a New York broker, is an honest sensualist, and when one says an honest sensualist, the meaning is — a man who has none of the cad in his character, who takes advantage of no one, and who allows no one to take advantage of him. He honestly detests any man who takes advantage of a pure woman. He detests any man who deceives a woman. He believes that there is only one way to go through life, and that is to be frank with those with whom one deals. He is a master-hand in stock manipulation, and in the questionable practises of Wall Street he has realized that he has to play his cunning and craft against the cunning and craft of others. He is not at all in sympathy with this mode of living, but he thinks it is the only method by which he can succeed in life. He measures success by the accumulation of money, but he considers his business career as a thing apart from his private existence.

He does not associate, to any great extent, with what is known as "society." He keeps in touch with it simply to maintain his business position. There is always an inter-relationship among the rich in business and private life, and he gives such entertainments as are necessary to the members of New York's exclusive set, simply to make certain his relative position with other successful Wall Street men.

As far as women are concerned, the particular type of actress, such as LAURA MURDOCK and ELFIE ST. CLAIR, appeals to him. He likes their good fellowship. He loves to be with a gay party at night in a café. He likes the rather looseness of living which does not quite reach the disreputable. Behind all this, however, is a certain high sense of honour. He detests and despises the average stage-door Johnny, and he loathes the type of man who seeks to take young girls out of theatrical companies for their ruin.

His women friends are as wise as himself. When they enter into an agreement with him there is no deception. In the first place he wants to like them; in the second place he wants them to like him; and finally, he wants to fix the amount of their living expenses at a definite figure, and have them stand by it. He wants them to understand that he reserves the right, at any time, to withdraw his support, or transfer it to some other woman, and he gives them the same privilege.

He is always ready to help anyone who is unfortunate, and he has always hoped that some of these girls whom he knew would finally come across the right man, marry and settle down; but he insists that such an arrangement can be possible only by the honest admission on the woman's part of what she has done and been, and by the thorough understanding of all these things by the man involved. He is gruff in his manner, determined in his purposes, honest in his point of view. He is a brute, almost a savage, but he is a thoroughly good brute and a pretty decent savage.

At the time of the opening of this play, he and LAURA MURDOCK have been friends for two years. He knows exactly what she is and what she has been, and their relations are those of pals. She has finished her season in Denver, and he has come out there to accompany her home. He has always told her, whenever she felt it inconsistent with her happiness to continue her relations with him, it is her privilege to quit, and he has reserved the same condition.

JIM WESTON, between forty-five and fifty years of age, is the type of the semi-broken-down showman. In the evolution of the theatrical business in America, the old circus and minstrel men have gradually been pushed aside, while younger men, with more advanced methods, have taken their place. The character is best realized by the way it is drawn in the play.

ANNIE. The only particular attention that should be called to the character of the negress, ANNIE, who is the servant of LAURA, is the fact that she must not in any way represent the traditional smiling coloured girl or "mammy" of the South. She is the cunning, crafty, heartless, surly, sullen Northern negress, who, to the number of thousands, are servants of women of easy morals, and who infest a district of New York in which white and black people of the lower classes mingle indiscriminately, and which is one of the most criminal sections of the city. The actress who plays this part must keep in mind its innate and brutal selfishness.

SYNOPSIS. ACT I. Mrs. Williams' Ranch House or Country Home, perched on the side of Ute Pass, near Colorado Springs, Colorado. TIME. Late in an August afternoon. ACT II. Laura Murdock's furnished Room, second story back, New York. TIME. Six months later. ACT III. Laura Murdock's Apartments in an expensive Hotel. TIME. Two months later. In the morning. ACT IV. Laura Murdock's Apartments. The same as Act III. TIME. The afternoon of the same day.
ACT I. SCENE. The scene is that of the summer country ranch house of MRS. WILLIAMS, a friend of LAURA MURDOCK'S, and a prominent society woman of Denver, perched on the side of Ute Pass, near Colorado Springs. The house is one of unusual pretentiousness, and, to a person not conversant with conditions as they exist in this part of Colorado, the idea might be that such magnificence could not obtain in such a locality. At the left of stage the house rises in the form of a turret, built of rough stone of a brown hue, two stories high, and projecting a quarter of the way out on the stage. The door leads to a small elliptical terrace built of stone, with heavy benches of Greek design, strewn cushions, while over the top of one part of this terrace is suspended a canopy made from a Navajo blanket. The terrace is supposed to extend almost to the right of stage, and here it stops. The stage must be cut here so that the entrance of JOHN can give the illusion that he is coming up a steep declivity or a long flight of stairs. There are chairs at right and left, and a small table at left. There are trailing vines around the balustrade of the terrace, and the whole setting must convey the idea of quiet wealth. Up stage is supposed to be the part of the terrace overlooking the cañon, a sheer drop of two thousand feet, while over in the distance, as if across the cañon, one can see the rolling foot-hills and lofty peaks of the Rockies, with Pike's Peak in the distance, snow-capped and colossal. It is late in the afternoon, and, as the scene progresses, the quick twilight of a cañon, beautiful in its tints of purple and amber, becomes later pitch black, and the curtain goes down on an absolutely black stage. The cyclorama, or semi-cyclorama, must give the perspective of greater distances, and be so painted that the various tints of twilight may be shown . AT RISE. LAURA MURDOCH is seen leaning a bit over the balustrade of the porch and shielding her eyes with her hand from the late afternoon sun, as she seemingly looks up the Pass to the left, as if expecting the approach of someone. Her gown is simple, girlish and attractive, and made of summery, filmy stuff. Her hair is done up in the simplest fashion, with a part in the centre, and there is about her every indication of an effort to assume that girlishness of demeanour which has been her greatest asset through life . WILLARD BROCKTON enters; he is a man six feet or more in height, stocky in build, clean-shaven and immaculately dressed. He is smoking a cigar, and upon entering takes one step forward and looks over toward LAURA in a semi-meditative manner . WILL.

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LAURA. With a half-sigh

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LAURA. Still without turning

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LAURA. Still honing in an absent-minded attitude

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WILL. Catches the significance of this speech. He carelessly throws the cigar over the balustrade. He comes down and leans on chair with his back to LAURA. She has not moved more than to place her left hand on a cushion and lean her head rather wearily against it, looking steadfastly up the Pass

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He regards her with a rather amused, indulgent, almost paternal expression, in contrast to his big, bluff, physical personality, with his iron-gray hair and his bulldog expression . LAURA looks more girlish than ever. This is imperative in order to thoroughly understand the character . WILL.

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Crosses to WILL, placing parasol on seat . WILL.

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[LAURA crosses to door, meditating; pauses in thought . LAURA.

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LAURA. Turns, looks at WILL.]

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Crossing to WILL. WILL.

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Sits on chair; takes candy-box on lap; selects candy . WILL.

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Picks up magazine of table . WILL.

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Slowly turning pages of magazine . WILL.

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Throws down magazine, crosses to door of house . WILL. Crossing down in front of table

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LAURA. Crosses to WILL.]

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WILL. Is evidently very much moved. Walks up stage to right end of seat, looks over the cañon . LAURA looks after him . WILL has his back to the audience. Long pause

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Puts arms about WILL. WILL.

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Facing audience; leaning elbows on lap . WILL.

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LAURA. Impatiently

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WILL. Pointing up the Pass

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LAURA. Quickly running toward the balustrade of seat, saying as she goes :]

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JOHN. Off stage with the effect as if he was on the road winding up toward the house

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LAURA. Same effect

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JOHN. Same effect, a little louder

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JOHN. Little louder

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LAURA. To WILL, with enthusiastic expression

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WILL. With a sort of sad smile

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LAURA. Looking down again at JOHN.]

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WILL. Motioning with thumb toward left side of ranch house

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LAURA. Goes hurriedly over to door

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MRS. WILLIAMS. Heard off stage

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In the meantime WILL has leaned over the balustrade, evidently surveying the young man, who is supposed to be coming up the path, with a great deal of interest. Underneath his stolid, businesslike demeanour of squareness, there is undoubtedly within his heart a very great affection for LAURA. He realizes that during her whole career he has been the only one who has influenced her absolutely. Since the time they lived together, he has always dominated, and he has always endeavoured to lead her along a path that meant the better things of a Bohemian existence. His coming all the way from New York to Denver to accompany LAURA home was simply another example of his keen interest in the woman, and he suddenly finds that she has drifted away from him in a manner to which he could not in the least object, and that she had been absolutely fair and square in her agreement with him . WILL is a man who, while rough and rugged in many ways, possesses many of the finer instincts of refinement, latent though they may be, and his meeting with JOHN ought, therefore, to show much significance, because on his impressions of the young man depend the entire justification of his attitude in the play . LAURA. Turning toward WILL and going to him, slipping her hand involuntarily through his arm, and looking eagerly with him aver the balustrade in almost girlish enthusiasm

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WILL. Smiling

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WILL. Almost amused at her girlish manner

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Gets candy-box, throws pieces of candy at JOHN. JOHN. His voice very close now

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LAURA. Turns quickly to WILL.]

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LAURA hurriedly exits . WILL goes down centre of the stage. After a short interval LAURA comes in, more like a sixteen-year-old girl than anything else, pulling JOHN after her. He is a tall, finely built type of Western manhood, a frank face, a quick, nervous energy, a mind that works like lightning, a prepossessing smile, and a personality that is wholly captivating. His clothes are a bit dusty from the ride, but are not in the least pretentious, and his leggins are of canvas and spurs of brass, such as are used in the Army. His hat is off, and he is pulled on to the stage, more like a great big boy than a man. His hair is a bit tumbled, and he shows every indication of having had a rather long and hard ride . LAURA.

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JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

Then she suddenly recovers herself and realizes the position she is in. Both men measure each other for a moment in silence, neither flinching the least bit. The smile has faded from JOHN'S face, and the mouth droops into an expression of firm determination . LAURA for a moment loses her ingenuousness. She is the least bit frightened at finally placing the two men face to face, and in a voice that trembles slightly from apprehension : LAURA.

Contains 38 words in 5 sentences using 177 chars .

JOHN. Comes forward, extends a hand, looking WILL right in the eye

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 41 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 42 words in 2 sentences using 212 chars .

WILL. In an easy manner that rather disarms the antagonistic attitude of JOHN.]

Contains 45 words in 2 sentences using 226 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 58 words in 4 sentences using 297 chars .

WILL.

Contains 22 words in 1 sentence using 105 chars .

LAURA. Radiantly

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 53 chars .

Crosses to door . JOHN. Looking at WILL rather comically

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 46 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 39 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 7 words in 2 sentences using 32 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 24 words in 1 sentence using 98 chars .

Crosses up stage to seat, picks up magazine, turns pages . WILL.

Contains 32 words in 3 sentences using 150 chars .

LAURA. Tossing magazine on to seat, crosses quickly to JOHN, throws her arms around his neck in the most loving manner

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

As the Act progresses the shadows cross the Pass, and golden light streams across the lower hills and tops the snow-clad peaks. It becomes darker and darker, the lights fade to beautiful opalescent hues, until, when the curtain falls on the act, with JOHN and WILL on the scene, it is pitch dark, a faint glow coming out of the door. Nothing else can be seen but the glow of the ash on the end of each man's cigar as he puffs it in silent meditation on their conversation . JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 34 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 34 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 64 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

LAURA gets a cushion in each hand off seat; crosses down to left of armchair, throws one cushion on ground, then the other on top of it, and kneels beside his chair. Piano in house playing a Chopin Nocturne . LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA. Rises, sits on left arm of chair, her arm over back

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 48 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 34 words in 1 sentence using 154 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA. Changing her position, sits on his lap, arms around his neck

Contains 27 words in 1 sentence using 115 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 52 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

[LAURA turns JOHN'S face to her, looks at him searchingly . JOHN.

Contains 28 words in 2 sentences using 146 chars .

LAURA tightens her arm around his neck, her cheek goes close to his own, and all the wealth of affection the woman is capable of at times is shown. She seems more like a dainty little kitten purring close to its master. Her whole thought and idea seem to be centred on the man whom she professes to love . LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 48 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 110 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 51 words in 2 sentences using 270 chars .

LAURA. Becoming very serious

Contains 29 words in 1 sentence using 139 chars .

JOHN. Rising

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 40 words in 3 sentences using 170 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 208 words in 10 sentences using 956 chars .

LAURA crosses to him, puts her arms around him, kisses him once very affectionately, looks at him very earnestly . LAURA.

Contains 22 words in 3 sentences using 92 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 140 words in 9 sentences using 675 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 32 words in 3 sentences using 158 chars .

LAURA. Kissing him

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 49 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 70 words in 3 sentences using 320 chars .

She kisses him; tears are in her eyes. He looks into her face with a quaint smile . JOHN.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 16 words in 1 sentence using 87 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

JOHN. With a smile

Contains 24 words in 2 sentences using 109 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 2 sentences using 56 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

LAURA. At door

Contains 5 words in 4 sentences using 31 chars .

WILL. Off stage

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

WILL.

Contains 37 words in 4 sentences using 172 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 75 chars .

WILL. His manner changing to one of cold, stolid calculation

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 59 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 26 words in 1 sentence using 121 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 46 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 26 words in 3 sentences using 123 chars .

WILL.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 89 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

WILL.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

JOHN crosses, and, taking LAURA'S arm, passes her over to seat; his back is partly to audience . JOHN.

Contains 24 words in 2 sentences using 145 chars .

WILL.

Contains 22 words in 1 sentence using 125 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 1 sentence using 80 chars .

WILL.

Contains 52 words in 2 sentences using 277 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 17 words in 1 sentence using 75 chars .

WILL.

Contains 51 words in 3 sentences using 249 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

Crosses to WILL, shakes hands . WILL. Rising

Contains 29 words in 4 sentences using 132 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 51 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

WILL. Turns to Laura

Contains 41 words in 3 sentences using 200 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA looks at JOHN for assurance, and exits; he nods reassuringly . WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

[SERVANT places lamp on table inside house . JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

Crosses down right; sits in armchair . WILL.

Contains 4 words in 2 sentences using 23 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 50 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

JOHN. Turns, looking at WILL.]

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 37 chars .

WILL.

Contains 99 words in 7 sentences using 425 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 164 words in 8 sentences using 817 chars .

WILL rises, comes down toward JOHN, showing anger in his tones . WILL.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 71 chars .

Crosses to chair left of table; gets it . JOHN.

Contains 50 words in 2 sentences using 243 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

Crosses over to centre of stage, carrying chair; sits . JOHN.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

WILL.

Contains 18 words in 1 sentence using 79 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 17 words in 1 sentence using 78 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 30 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

WILL.

Contains 117 words in 6 sentences using 573 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 44 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 33 words in 1 sentence using 130 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 28 words in 2 sentences using 120 chars .

WILL.

Contains 92 words in 5 sentences using 466 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 77 chars .

WILL.

Contains 180 words in 6 sentences using 844 chars .

JOHN'S patience is evidently severely tried. He approaches WILL, who remains impassive . JOHN.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 31 words in 2 sentences using 141 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 86 words in 8 sentences using 421 chars .

WILL. Angrily

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

JOHN rises quickly. Both men stand confronting each other for a moment with fists clenched. They are on the very verge of a personal encounter. Both seem to realize that they have gone too far . JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

WILL.

Contains 32 words in 2 sentences using 155 chars .

He smiles; JOHN relaxes and takes one step back . JOHN.

Contains 14 words in 1 sentence using 70 chars .

WILL.

Contains 12 words in 2 sentences using 64 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 40 words in 2 sentences using 198 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 43 chars .

WILL.

Contains 47 words in 4 sentences using 238 chars .

JOHN Turns to WILL.]

Contains 62 words in 4 sentences using 292 chars .

Crosses down and sits in armchair . WILL.

Contains 50 words in 2 sentences using 219 chars .

JOHN. Sarcastically

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 25 chars .

WILL.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 59 chars .

JOHN. Turns to WILL.]

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL.

Contains 27 words in 1 sentence using 113 chars .

JOHN is leaning on arm, facing WILL; his hand shoots out in a gesture of warning to WILL. JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 8 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

By this time the stage is black and all that can be seen is the glow of the two cigars. Piano in the next room is heard . JOHN crosses slowly and deliberately to door, looks in, throws cigar away over the terrace, exits into home, closes doors, and, as WILL is seated on terrace, puffing cigar, the red coal of which is alone visible, a slow curtain . CURTAIN.
ACT II.

SCENE. Six months have elapsed. The furnished room of LAURA MURDOCK, second story back of an ordinary, cheap theatrical lodging-house in the theatre district of New York. The house is evidently of a type of the old-fashioned brown-stone front, with high ceilings, dingy walls, and long, rather insecure windows. The woodwork is depressingly dark. The ceiling is cracked, the paper is old and spotted and in places loose. There is a door leading to the hallway. There is a large old-fashioned wardrobe in which are hung a few old clothes, most of them a good deal worn and shabby, showing that the owner — LAURA MURDOCK — has had a rather hard time of it since leaving Colorado in the first act. The doors of this wardrobe must be equipped with springs so they will open outward, and also furnished with wires so they can be controlled from the back. This is absolutely necessary, owing to "business" which is done during the progress of the act. The drawer in the bottom of the wardrobe is open at rise. This is filled with a lot of rumpled tissue-paper and other rubbish. An old pair of shoes is seen at the upper end of the wardrobe on the floor. There is an armchair over which is thrown an ordinary kimono, and on top of the wardrobe are a number of magazines and old books, and an unused parasol wrapped up in tissue paper .

The dresser, which is upstage, against the wall, is in keeping with the general meanness, and its adornment consists of old postcards stuck in between the mirror and its frame, with some well-worn veils and ribbons hung on the side. On the dresser is a pincushion, a bottle of cheap perfume, purple in colour and nearly empty; a common crockery match-holder, containing matches, which must be practicable; a handkerchief-box, powder-box and puff, rouge-box and rouge paw, hand mirror, small alcohol curling-iron heater, which must also be practicable, as it is used in the "business" of the act; scissors, curling-tongs, hair comb and brush, and a small cheap picture of JOHN MADISON; a small work-box containing a thimble and thread, — and stuck in the pincushion are a couple of needles, threaded. Directly to the left of the bureau, with the door to the outside closet intervening, is a broken-down washstand, on which is a basin half full of water, a bottle of tooth-powder, tooth brushes and holder, soap and soap-dish, and other cheap toilet articles, and a small drinking-glass. Hung on the corner of the washstand is a soiled towel. Hung on the rack across the top of the washstand one can see a pair of stockings. On the floor in front of the washstand is a pitcher half full of water; also a large waste-water jar of the cheapest type .

Below the washstand, and with the head against the wall, is a three-quarter old wooden bed, also showing the general decay of the entire room. Tacked on the head of this bed is a large photo of JOHN MADISON, with a small bow of dainty blue ribbon at the top, covering the tack. Under the photo are arranged half a dozen cheap, artificial violets, in pitiful recognition of the girl's love for her absent sweetheart .

Under the mattress at the head of the bed is a heavy cardboard box, about thirty inches long, seven inches wide and four inches deep, containing about one hundred and twenty-five letters and eighty telegrams, tied in about eight bundles with dainty ribbon. One bundle must contain all practical letters of several closely written pages each, each letter having been opened. They must be written upon business paper and envelopes, such as are used in newspaper offices and by business men .

Under the pillow at the head of the bed is carelessly thrown a woman's night-dress. On the bed is an old book, open, with face downward, and beside it is an apple which some one has been nibbling. Across the foot of the bed is a soiled quilt, untidily folded. The pillows are hollow in the centre, as if having been used lately. At the foot of the bed is a small table, with soiled and ink-stained cover, upon which are a cheap pitcher, containing some withered carnations, and a desk-pad, with paper, pen, ink, and envelopes scattered around .

Against the wall below the bed is an old mantel-piece and fireplace with iron grate, such as are used in houses of this type. On the mantel-piece are photos of actors and actresses, an old mantel clock in the centre, in front of which is a box of cheap peppermint candy in large pieces, and a plate with two apples upon it; some cheap pieces of bric-à-brac and a little vase containing joss-sticks, such as one might burn to improve the atmosphere of these dingy, damp houses. Below the mantel-piece is a thirty-six inch theatre trunk, with theatre labels on it, in the tray of which are articles of clothing, a small box of thread, and a bundle of eight pawn tickets. Behind the trunk is a large cardboard box. Hanging from the ceiling directly over the table is a single arm gas-jet, from which is hung a turkey wish-bone. On the jet is a little wire arrangement to hold small articles for heating. Beside the table is a chair. Under the bed are a pair of bedroom slippers and a box. Between the bed and the mantel is a small tabourette on which are a book and a candle-stick with the candle half burned. On the floor in front of the door is a slipper, — also another in front of the dresser, — as if they had been thrown carelessly down. On the wardrobe door, on the down-stage side, is tacked another photo of JOHN MADISON.

In an alcove off left is a table on which is a small oil stove, two cups, saucers and plates, a box of matches, tin coffee-box, and a small Japanese teapot. On a projection outside the window is a pint milk bottle, half filled with milk, and an empty benzine bottle, which is labelled. Both are covered with snow .

The backing shows a street snow-covered. In arranging the properties it must be remembered that in the wardrobe is a box of Uneeda biscuits, with one end torn open. There is a door down right, opening inward, leading into the hallway. The window is at back, running from floor nearly to the ceiling. This window does not rise, but opens in the manner of the French or door window .

On the outside of the window covering the same is an iron guard such as is used in New York on the lower back windows. The rods running up and down are about four inches apart. There is a projection outside the window such as would be formed by a storm door in the basement; running the full length of the window and about thirty inches wide, raised about a foot from the floor in front and about nine inches in the back, there is opening inward a door at left back, leading into a small alcove, as has been mentioned before. The door is half glass, the glass part being the upper half, and is ajar when the curtain rises. A projection at fireplace such as would be made for a chimney is in the wall which runs from left centre diagonally to left first entrance .

AT RISE the stage is empty. After a pause LAURA enters, passes the dresser, places umbrella at the right, end of it against wall, crosses to back of armchair, removes gloves, lays them over back of chair, takes off coat and hat, hangs hat on end of wardrobe, and puts coat inside; notices old slipper in front of dresser and one on the extreme right, and with impatience picks them up and puts them in the wardrobe drawer. Then crosses to dresser, gets needle and thread off pincushion, and mends small rip in glove, after which she puts gloves in top drawer of dresser, crosses to extreme end of dresser, and gets handkerchief out of box, takes up battle containing purple perfume, holds it up so she can see there is only a small quantity left, sprinkles a drop on handkerchief carefully, so as not to use too much, looks at bottle again to see how much is left, places it on dresser; goes to up-stage side of bed, kneels on head of the bed and looks lovingly at photo of JOHN MADISON, and finally pulls up the mattress, takes out box of letters, and opens it. She then sits down in Oriental fashion, with her feet under her, selects a bundle of letters, unties the ribbon, and takes out a letter such as has been hereinbefore described, glances it over, puts it down in her lap, and again takes a long look at the picture of JOHN MADISON. ANNIE is heard coming upstairs . LAURA looks quickly towards the door, puts the letters back in box, and hurriedly places box under mattress, and replaces pillow . ANNIE knocks on door . LAURA rises and crosses to door .

 LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

ANNIE, a chocolate-colored negress, enters. She is slovenly in appearance, but must not in any way denote the "mammy." She is the type one encounters in cheap theatrical lodging-houses. She has a letter in her hand, — also a clean towel folded, — and approaches LAURA. LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

LAURA. Taking letter

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

She looks at the address and does not open it . ANNIE.

Contains 26 words in 4 sentences using 142 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

ANNIE. Draws her jacket closer around her as if chilly

Contains 33 words in 2 sentences using 171 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

ANNIE. Crosses to right of armchair, brushes it off and makes an effort to read letter, leaning across chair

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 41 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

ANNIE. Crossing to centre triumphantly

Contains 55 words in 4 sentences using 256 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

ANNIE. Sees door open; goes and bangs it shut

Contains 45 words in 3 sentences using 209 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 12 chars .

ANNIE. At bed, fussing around, folds nightgown and places it under pillow

Contains 77 words in 7 sentences using 385 chars .

Reads letter on table . LAURA. Sees her, angrily exclaims

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

ANNIE. In confusion, brushing off table

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 76 chars .

Crosses to armchair, and picks up kimono off back . LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 3 sentences using 53 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 3 words in 3 sentences using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 42 words in 1 sentence using 217 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 33 words in 3 sentences using 148 chars .

Hangs kimono over back of armchair . LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ANNIE. Crossing again

Contains 23 words in 1 sentence using 106 chars .

LAURA. With sorrowful shudder

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 31 words in 2 sentences using 149 chars .

LAURA. Exasperated

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

ANNIE. Sees doors of wardrobe have swung open; she crosses, slams them shut, turns to LAURA.]

Contains 36 words in 2 sentences using 163 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 34 chars .

ANNIE. Crosses to back of bed, wiping basin with towel

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 20 words in 3 sentences using 92 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 68 words in 5 sentences using 323 chars .

LAURA. Rising and going to the bureau

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 13 words in 4 sentences using 63 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 3 sentences using 61 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

Crosses to door hurriedly, carrying soiled towel . LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 79 words in 4 sentences using 390 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 9 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 142 words in 6 sentences using 628 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 28 words in 3 sentences using 126 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

Making a show of reluctance . LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 18 words in 3 sentences using 84 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 16 words in 2 sentences using 77 chars .

ANNIE. Takes it rather reluctantly

Contains 12 words in 2 sentences using 59 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

MRS. FARLEY'S VOICE. Downstairs

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 13 chars .

ANNIE. Going to door, opens it

Contains 7 words in 2 sentences using 39 chars .

SAME VOICE.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

MRS. FARLEY.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

MRS. FARLEY.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

ANNIE. At door

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

MRS. FARLEY.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

LAURA. Coming to the rescue at the door. To ANNIE.]

Contains 9 words in 3 sentences using 41 chars .

MRS. FARLEY. Her voice softened

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 42 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 77 chars .

MRS. FARLEY.

Contains 4 words in 2 sentences using 22 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

MRS. FARLEY.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 50 chars .

LAURA quietly closes the door, and MRS. FARLEY'S rather strident voice is heard indistinctly . LAURA sighs and walks toward table; sits . ANNIE looks after her, and then slowly opens the door . ANNIE.

Contains 13 words in 1 sentence using 57 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

ANNIE exits . LAURA sits down and looks at letter, opening it. It consists of several pages closely written. She reads some of them hurriedly, skims through the rest, and then turns to the last page without reading; glances at it; lays it on table; rises . LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

She crosses to bed, falls face down upon it, burying her face in her hands. Her despondency is palpable. As she lies there a hurdy-gurdy in the street starts to play a popular air. This arouses her and she rises, crosses to wardrobe, takes out box of crackers, opens window, gets bottle of milk off sill outside, places them on table, gets glass off washstand, at the same time humming the tune of the hurdy-gurdy, when a knock comes; she crosses quickly to dresser; powders her nose. The knock is timidly repeated . LAURA. Without turning, and in a rather tired tone of voice

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

JIM WESTON, a rather shabby theatrical advance-agent of the old school, enters timidly, halting at the door and holding the knob in his hand. He is a man of about forty years old, dressed in an ordinary manner, of medium height, and in fact has the appearance of a once prosperous clerk who has been in hard luck. His relations with LAURA are those of pure friendship. They both live in the same lodging-place, and, both having been out of employment, they have naturally become acquainted . JIM.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA. Without turning

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 28 chars .

JIM.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 21 chars .

JIM.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 44 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 2 sentences using 31 chars .

JIM.

Contains 34 words in 3 sentences using 167 chars .

Hurdy-gurdy dies out . LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

JIM.

Contains 88 words in 5 sentences using 423 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 30 words in 3 sentences using 130 chars .

JIM.

Contains 19 words in 1 sentence using 91 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

JIM.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 52 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

Crosses to bed; sits on up-stage side, sipping milk . JIM.

Contains 57 words in 4 sentences using 275 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

JIM.

Contains 38 words in 4 sentences using 185 chars .

LAURA. Turns to him and in a significant voice:

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

JIM.

Contains 40 words in 2 sentences using 192 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

JIM.

Contains 32 words in 2 sentences using 147 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 41 words in 4 sentences using 205 chars .

JIM.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 13 chars .

JIM.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 88 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

JIM.

Contains 35 words in 3 sentences using 164 chars .

LAURA. Suddenly and interested

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 5 chars .

JIM.

Contains 37 words in 1 sentence using 187 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

JIM.

Contains 86 words in 3 sentences using 419 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 34 chars .

JIM.

Contains 49 words in 5 sentences using 248 chars .

LAURA. Rises quickly

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 4 chars .

JIM.

Contains 23 words in 3 sentences using 107 chars .

LAURA. Coming over to JIM and with emphasis crosses to downstage side of bed; puts hat and scissors on bed

Contains 118 words in 10 sentences using 526 chars .

Rises, crosses to mantel, rests elbow . JIM.

Contains 102 words in 8 sentences using 459 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

JIM. During this speech LAURA gets cup, pours milk back into bottle, closes biscuit-box, puts milk on shed outside, and biscuits into wardrobe, cup in alcove

Contains 123 words in 4 sentences using 604 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JIM.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

JIM.

Contains 43 words in 2 sentences using 207 chars .

LAURA. Rather meditatively

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

JIM. Sits on bed

Contains 58 words in 6 sentences using 281 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

JIM.

Contains 27 words in 3 sentences using 129 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 31 chars .

JIM.

Contains 28 words in 3 sentences using 142 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 23 words in 1 sentence using 94 chars .

JIM.

Contains 60 words in 5 sentences using 266 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 69 chars .

JIM. With a smile crosses to LAURA, puts arm around her

Contains 43 words in 4 sentences using 199 chars .

LAURA. Smiling through her tears

Contains 13 words in 2 sentences using 67 chars .

JIM.

Contains 38 words in 4 sentences using 174 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

JIM.

Contains 33 words in 5 sentences using 143 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

JIM.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 56 chars .

MRS. FARLEY'S VOICE. Off stage

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

LAURA. Brushing away tears, rises, goes to door, and opens it

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

SAME VOICE.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 36 chars .

ELFIE'S VOICE. Off stage

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 21 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

She waits at the door for a moment, and ELFIE ST. CLAIR appears. She is gorgeously gowned in the rather extreme style affected by the usual New York woman who is cared for by a gentleman of wealth and who has not gone through the formality of matrimonial alliance. Her conduct is always exaggerated and her attitude vigorous. Her gown is of the latest design, and in every detail of dress she shows evidence of most extravagant expenditure. She carries a hand-bag of gold, upon which are attached such trifles as a gold cigarette-case, a gold powder-box, pencils, and the like . ELFIE throws her arms around LAURA, and both exchange kisses . ELFIE.

Contains 20 words in 1 sentence using 95 chars .

LAURA. Who is much brightened by ELFIE'S appearance

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 47 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 12 words in 2 sentences using 53 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 35 words in 3 sentences using 143 chars .

LAURA. Sits on arm of chair

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 53 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 24 words in 2 sentences using 104 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 58 words in 6 sentences using 276 chars .

LAURA. Crossing and standing back of the table

Contains 20 words in 1 sentence using 80 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 95 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 60 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 16 words in 3 sentences using 87 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 20 words in 3 sentences using 103 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 31 words in 4 sentences using 143 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 41 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 24 words in 3 sentences using 115 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

Crosses around chair right of table; stands . ELFIE.

Contains 23 words in 3 sentences using 109 chars .

Takes cigarette-case up, opens it, selecting cigarette . LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 8 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

Sits in chair right of table, facing ELFIE. ELFIE.

Contains 21 words in 4 sentences using 81 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 43 words in 3 sentences using 194 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 41 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 22 words in 2 sentences using 100 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 66 words in 7 sentences using 324 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 50 words in 4 sentences using 227 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 61 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 1 sentence using 63 chars .

ELFIE. Puffing deliberately on cigarette and crossing her legs in almost a masculine attitude

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 27 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

LAURA. Turning impatiently

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 51 words in 3 sentences using 241 chars .

LAURA. Going over to her angrily

Contains 66 words in 5 sentences using 293 chars .

ELFIE. Throws cigarette into fireplace

Contains 194 words in 10 sentences using 896 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

ELFIE. Speaking across table angrily

Contains 172 words in 11 sentences using 760 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

Lies on bed . ELFIE.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 89 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 54 words in 3 sentences using 231 chars .

LAURA. Rising and angrily crossing to armchair

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 86 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

LAURA. During speech crosses to up-stage side of bed, angrily tosses quilt to floor and sits on bed in tears

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 76 chars .

ELFIE. Sits on bed, crosses down stage to lower left side of bed, sits facing LAURA.]

Contains 152 words in 10 sentences using 707 chars .

LAURA. Puts down mirror, crossing down to back of bed

Contains 60 words in 4 sentences using 265 chars .

ELFIE. Rises

Contains 82 words in 8 sentences using 371 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 34 chars .

ELFIE. Crosses to left end of table

Contains 30 words in 3 sentences using 146 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

ELFIE. Gathering up muff, &c.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 59 chars .

LAURA. Controlling herself after a moment's hesitation

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

ANNIE enters with a note, crosses, and hands it to LAURA. ANNIE.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

[LAURA takes the note and reads it. She is palpably annoyed . LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 48 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 1 sentence using 56 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 46 chars .

Exit reluctantly . LAURA. Half to herself and half to ELFIE.]

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 43 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 84 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 5 chars .

LAURA. Crossing to table

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 50 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 1 sentence using 66 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 41 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 24 words in 2 sentences using 100 chars .

ELFIE. Turning and angrily speaking across table

Contains 134 words in 10 sentences using 598 chars .

ELFIE rushes toward door; for a moment LAURA stands speechless, then bursts into hysterics . LAURA.

Contains 28 words in 7 sentences using 111 chars .

LAURA falls into ELFIE'S arms, sobbing. In a moment ELFIE'S whole demeanour changes and she melts into the tenderest womanly sympathy, trying her best to express herself in her crude way . ELFIE.

Contains 56 words in 6 sentences using 243 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 12 words in 2 sentences using 55 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 26 words in 3 sentences using 137 chars .

LAURA. More seriously, recovering herself

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 23 chars .

Wiping LAURA'S eyes and kissing her . LAURA. With persistence

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 38 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 18 words in 2 sentences using 76 chars .

ELFIE. Looking around room

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 22 words in 2 sentences using 101 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 30 words in 3 sentences using 137 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 28 words in 4 sentences using 127 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 77 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 23 words in 2 sentences using 113 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 48 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 38 chars .

LAURA. Turning to ELFIE.]

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 65 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 49 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 16 words in 2 sentences using 95 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 29 chars .

ELFIE. Crosses to LAURA, puts arms around her

Contains 27 words in 2 sentences using 131 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 2 sentences using 24 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 49 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 10 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 75 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 36 words in 2 sentences using 172 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 33 chars .

LAURA. After a long pause, crossing around to bed, down-stage side

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ELFIE. Suddenly becomes animated

Contains 124 words in 13 sentences using 551 chars .

Exit . After ELFIE'S exit LAURA crosses slowly to wardrobe, pulls off picture of JOHN; crosses to dresser, takes picture of JOHN from there; carries both pictures over to bed; kneels on bed, pulls down picture at head of bed; places all three pictures under pillow . WILL is heard coming upstairs, and knocks . LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

WILL enters. His dress is that of a man of business, the time being about February. He is well groomed and brings with him the impression of easy luxury . WILL. As he enters

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

There is an obvious embarrassment on the part of each of them. She rises, goes to him and extends her hand . LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 32 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

WILL. Regaining his ease of manner

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

Puts hat and cane at end of wardrobe; removes overcoat and places it on back of armchair; sits in armchair . LAURA. Sits right of table

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 46 chars .

LAURA. Very simply, and avoiding his glance

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

WILL. With an effort concealing his sense of triumph and satisfaction. Rises, crosses to LAURA.]

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 68 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

Crosses to left of table in front of bed . WILL.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 69 chars .

LAURA. Wearily

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 38 chars .

Crosses and sits right of table . WILL.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 52 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 90 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

WILL.

Contains 41 words in 3 sentences using 184 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

WILL.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 65 chars .

He takes a roll of bills and places it on the bureau . LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 68 chars .

WILL.

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 95 chars .

Sits on up-stage side of bed . LAURA.

Contains 21 words in 3 sentences using 87 chars .

WILL.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 87 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 39 chars .

WILL.

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 95 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 40 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 51 chars .

LAURA. Rises hurriedly; crosses right

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 34 chars .

WILL.

Contains 45 words in 3 sentences using 192 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 14 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 2 sentences using 62 chars .

WILL.

Contains 25 words in 3 sentences using 109 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

LAURA. Goes to table and sits down

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

WILL. Standing back of table

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 36 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 55 chars .

WILL.

Contains 26 words in 3 sentences using 111 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

WILL. Dictating

Contains 64 words in 7 sentences using 316 chars .

She puts pen down; looks at him . LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

WILL.

Contains 32 words in 4 sentences using 146 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 18 words in 3 sentences using 71 chars .

WILL. Crosses to armchair; gets coat, puts it on

Contains 35 words in 6 sentences using 154 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 31 chars .

WILL.

Contains 23 words in 4 sentences using 120 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

WILL.

Contains 20 words in 3 sentences using 88 chars .

Approaches and bends over her as if to caress her . LAURA. Shrinking away

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 56 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

For a moment LAURA sits silent, and then angrily rises, crosses up to dresser, gets alcohol lamp, crosses to table with lamp, lights same, and starts back to dresser. Knock at door . LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 25 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 4 sentences using 64 chars .

ANNIE goes to the table, examines the roll of bills and is palpably surprised . ANNIE.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 80 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 4 sentences using 78 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 51 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 31 words in 3 sentences using 145 chars .

ANNIE. Aside

Contains 31 words in 5 sentences using 157 chars .

LAURA. Snapping her off

Contains 26 words in 5 sentences using 114 chars .

ANNIE exits. Slowly LAURA puts the letter over the flame of the alcohol lamp and it ignites. As it burns she holds it in her fingers, and when half consumed throws it into waste-jar, sits on side of bed watching letter burn, then lies down across bed on her elbows, her chin in her hands, facing audience. As the last flicker is seen the curtain slowly descends . CURTAIN.
ACT III.

SCENE. Two months have elapsed. The scene is at BROCKTON'S apartment in a hotel such as is not over particular concerning the relations of its tenants. There are a number of these hotels throughout the theatre district of New York, and, as a rule, one will find them usually of the same type. The room in which this scene is placed is that of the general living-room in one of the handsomest apartments in the building. The prevailing colour is green, and there is nothing particularly gaudy about the general furnishings. They are in good taste, but without the variety of arrangement and ornamentation which would naturally obtain in a room occupied by people a bit more particular concerning their surroundings. Down stage is a table about three feet square which can be used not only as a general centre-table, but also for service while the occupants are eating. There is a breakfast service on this table, and also a tray and stand behind it. There is a chair at either side of the table, and at right coming up stage, the room turns at a sharp angle of thirty-five degrees, and this space is largely taken tip by a large doorway. This is equipped with sliding-doors and hung with green portières, which are handsome and in harmony with the general scheme of the furnishings of the room. This entrance is to the sleeping-room of the apartments. At the back of the stage is a large window or alcove. The window is on the ordinary plan, and the view through it shows the back of another building of New York, presumably a hotel of about the same character. Green portières are also hung on the windows. Down left is the entrance to the corridor of the hotel, and this must be so arranged that it works with a latch-key and opens upon a small hallway, which separates the apartment from the main hallway. This is necessary as the action calls for the slamming of a door, and later the opening of the direct and intimate door of the apartment with a latch-key. Left of centre is a sofa, and there is a general arrangement of chairs without over-crowding the apartment. Just below, where the right portière is hung, is a long, full-length mirror, such as women dress by. Against wall is a lady's fancy dresser .

To the immediate left of the sliding-doors, which go into the sleeping-apartment, is a lady's small writing-desk, with a drawer on the right-hand side, in which is a pearl-handled 32-calibre revolver. The front of the desk is open at rise. On top of the desk is a desk lamp and a large box of candy; inside the desk is writing material, &c. In pigeon-hole left there is a small photo and frame, which ANNIE places on the table when she removes the breakfast set. In front of centre window in alcove is a small table on which is a parlour lamp, and some newspapers, including the "New York Sun." On the floor running between the desk and table is a large fur rug. In front of the table is a small gilt chair; in front of desk there is also a small gilt chair; there is a pianola piano, on top of which is a bundle of music-rolls. In place, ready to play, is a roll of a negro tune called "Bon-Bon Buddie, My Chocolate Drop." On top of the piano, in addition to the music-rolls, are a fancy lamp, a large basket of chrysanthemums, and two photos in frames, at the upper corner. Standing on the floor is a large piano lamp. On the sofa are cushions, and thrown over its back is a lady's opera-coat. On the sofa are also a fan and some small dinner favours .

On the dresser are a lady's silver toilet set, including powder boxes, rouge boxes, manicuring implements, and a small plush black cat that might have been a favour at some time. Two little dolls hang on the side of the glass of the dresser, which also might have been favours. These are used later in the action, and are necessary .

 AT RISE. When the curtain rises on this scene it is noticeable that the occupants of the room must have returned rather late at night, after having dined, not wisely, but too well. In the alcove is a man's dress-coat and vest thrown on the cushions in a most careless manner; a silk hat badly rumpled is near it. Over the top of sofa is an opera-cloak, and hung on the mirror is a huge hat, of the evening type, such as women would pay handsomely for. A pair of gloves is thrown on top of the pier-glass. The curtains in the bay-window are half drawn, and the light shades are half drawn down the windows, so that when the curtain goes up the place is in a rather dim light. On the table are the remains of a breakfast, which is served in a box-like tray such as is used in hotels . LAURA is discovered sitting at right of table, her hair a bit untidy. She has on a very expensive negligee gown . WILL, in a business suit, is at the other side of the table, and both have evidently just about concluded their breakfast and are reading the newspapers while they sip their coffee . LAURA is intent in the scanning of her "Morning Telegraph," while WILL is deep in the market reports of the "Journal of Commerce," and in each instance these things must be made apparent . WILL throws down the paper rather impatiently . WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 30 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL. In a loud voice

Contains 9 words in 3 sentences using 52 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 34 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 18 words in 1 sentence using 75 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 30 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

WILL.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 67 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 36 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

[BROCKTON pours out one half glass of water from bottle . LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

Rather wearily she gets up and goes to the table, where there are other morning papers; she takes the "Sun," hands it to him, goes back to her seat, re-opens the "Morning Telegraph." There is a pause . ANNIE enters from the sleeping-room . ANNIE.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

WILL.

Contains 28 words in 2 sentences using 106 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 34 words in 2 sentences using 172 chars .

WILL.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 94 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

WILL.

Contains 50 words in 6 sentences using 259 chars .

In the meantime ANNIE scurries around, picking up the coat and vest, opera-cloak, &c., as rapidly as possible, and throwing them over her arm without any idea of order. It is very apparent that she is rather fearful of the anger of WILL while he is in this mood . WILL. Looking at her

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 52 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 8 chars .

LAURA. Laying dawn paper and looking at WILL.]

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 52 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 3 sentences using 36 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

WILL.

Contains 36 words in 4 sentences using 151 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 28 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 26 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 18 words in 2 sentences using 77 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

WILL.

Contains 31 words in 4 sentences using 140 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 32 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 25 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

WILL.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 42 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 33 words in 3 sentences using 143 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

LAURA. Wearily

Contains 8 words in 3 sentences using 37 chars .

WILL. Looking at her curiously

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 33 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 87 words in 7 sentences using 390 chars .

WILL.

Contains 39 words in 2 sentences using 181 chars .

LAURA crosses up to mirror, picks up hat from box, puts it on, looks in mirror. She turns around and looks at him steadfastly for a minute. During this entire scene, from the time the curtain rises, she must in a way indicate a premonition of an approaching catastrophe, a feeling, vague but nevertheless palpable, that something is going to happen. She must hold this before her audience so that she can show to them, without showing to him, the disgust she feels . LAURA has tasted of the privations of self-sacrifice during her struggle, and she has weakly surrendered and is unable to go back, but that brief period of self-abnegation has shown to her most clearly the rottenness of the other sort of living. There are enough sentimentality and emotion in her character to make it impossible for her to accept this manner of existence as ELFIE does. Hers is not a nature of careless candour, but of dreamy ideals and better living, warped, handicapped, disillusioned, and destroyed by a weakness that finds its principal force in vanity . WILL resumes his newspaper in a more attentive way. The girl looks at him and expresses in pantomine, by the slightest gesture or shrug of the shoulders, her growing distaste for him and his way of living. In the meantime WILL is reading the paper rather carefully. He stops suddenly and then looks at his watch . LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL at this moment particularly reads some part of the paper, turns to her with a keen glance of suspicion and inquiry, and then for a very short moment evidently settles in his mind a cross-examination. He has read in this paper a despatch from Chicago, which speaks of JOHN MADISON having arrived there as a representative of a big Western mining syndicate which is going to open large operations in the Nevada gold-fields, and representing MR. MADISON as being on his way to New York with sufficient capital to enlist more, and showing him to be now a man of means. The attitude of LAURA and the coincidence of the despatch bring back to WILL the scene in Denver, and later in New York, and with that subtle intuition of the man of the world he connects the two . WILL.

Contains 26 words in 2 sentences using 142 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 21 chars .

WILL.

Contains 53 words in 5 sentences using 252 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 26 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 52 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 34 words in 1 sentence using 164 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 3 sentences using 74 chars .

WILL.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 86 chars .

LAURA. Impatiently

Contains 66 words in 8 sentences using 309 chars .

Crossing up to mirror. Crosses back to right of table; sits . WILL.

Contains 31 words in 4 sentences using 138 chars .

He gets up, goes to her, puts his hands on her shoulders, and his cheek close to the back of her head. She bends forward and shudders a little bit. It is very easy to see that the life she is leading is becoming intolerable to her . WILL.

Contains 40 words in 3 sentences using 177 chars .

LAURA, in order to avoid his caresses, has leaned forward; her hands are clasped between her knees, and she is looking straight outward with a cold, impassive expression . WILL regards her silently for a moment. Really in the man's heart there is an affection, and really he wants to try to comfort her; but he seems to realize that she has slipped away from the old environment and conditions, and that he simply bought her back; that he hasn't any of her affection, even with his mmoney; that she evinces toward him none of the old camaraderie; and it hurts him, as those things always hurt a selfish man, inclining him to be brutal and inconsiderate . WILL crosses to centre, and stands reading paper; bell rings; a pause and second bell . WILL seizes upon this excuse to go up-stage and over towards the door . WILL. After second bell

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

He continues on his way; he opens the door, leaves it open, and passes on to the outer door, which he opens . LAURA remains immovable and impassive, with the same cold, hard expression on her face. He comes in, slamming the outer door with effect, which one must have at this point of the play, because it is essential to a situation coming later. Enters the room, closes the door, and holds in his hand a telegram. Looks from newspaper to telegram . WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 62 chars .

WILL. Handing telegram to her

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 19 chars .

Pause; he faces her, looking at her. She opens it quickly. She reads it and, as she does, gasps quickly with an exclamation of fear and surprise. This is what the despatch says ( it is dated at Buffalo and addressed to LAURA) : "I will be in New York before noon. I'm coming to marry you and I'm coming with a bank-roll. I wanted to keep it secret and have a big surprise for you, but I can't hold it any longer, because I feel just like a kid with a new top. Don't go out, and be ready for the big matrimonial thing. All my love. John." WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

LAURA. Walking up stage rather hurriedly

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL. Looking at paper about where he had left off

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 12 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

He makes himself rather comfortable in the chair, and LAURA regards him for a moment from up stage as if trying to figure out how to get rid of him . LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 49 chars .

WILL.

Contains 40 words in 5 sentences using 182 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 3 sentences using 79 chars .

WILL.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 46 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 35 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 25 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 30 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 54 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 38 chars .

WILL.

Contains 16 words in 3 sentences using 77 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 3 sentences using 21 chars .

Rises from piano . ANNIE appears at doorway . ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 16 words in 1 sentence using 70 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

Crosses the stage and exits through door . LAURA sits on left arm of sofa . WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 25 words in 2 sentences using 106 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 42 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 71 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 49 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 4 chars .

ANNIE reënters with a time-table and hands it to LAURA. LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 48 chars .

Sits on sofa . ANNIE complies; takes them across stage, opens the door leading to the corridor, exits . LAURA in the meantime is studying the time-table . LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

WILL.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

LAURA crosses to right of table, sits opposite WILL, and hands him the time-table. He takes it and handles it as if he were familiar with it . WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 18 words in 2 sentences using 87 chars .

WILL.

Contains 66 words in 2 sentences using 315 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 38 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 21 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

WILL. Passing her the time-table

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

WILL. Takes up the paper again . LAURA looks at clock

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

LAURA. Utters a slight exclamation and makes an effort to control herself

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 21 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

LAURA. Coming quickly over to him, looks over his shoulder

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

WILL.

Contains 54 words in 6 sentences using 230 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 24 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

WILL.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 56 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 66 chars .

WILL.

Contains 22 words in 3 sentences using 95 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 29 words in 4 sentences using 125 chars .

WILL.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 69 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

She holds the telegram crumpled in one hand . WILL lays down the paper, and regards LAURA curiously. She sees the expression on his face and averts her head in order not to meet his eye . LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

WILL.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 73 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 38 chars .

Lies on sofa . WILL.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 20 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

WILL.

Contains 28 words in 1 sentence using 113 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 18 words in 3 sentences using 71 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 36 chars .

LAURA. Trying to affect an attitude of resigned patience and resignation

Contains 4 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

WILL.

Contains 24 words in 2 sentences using 109 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 16 words in 2 sentences using 88 chars .

WILL.

Contains 16 words in 1 sentence using 78 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 13 chars .

WILL. Looking her straight in the eye

Contains 25 words in 1 sentence using 110 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 51 chars .

WILL.

Contains 17 words in 1 sentence using 86 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 23 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 30 words in 5 sentences using 132 chars .

WILL. Crossing to table

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 55 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 6 chars .

WILL.

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 93 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL. Going over towards her

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

[LAURA crosses up to doors leading into bedroom . LAURA. Tears telegram in half

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 26 chars .

WILL.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 84 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

Crossing to left of sofa, around it on down-stage side . WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

During scene. Backing away from WILL, who is following her , LAURA backs against bureau . WILL grabs her and attempts to take telegram from her. She has put it in the front of her waist. She slowly draws it out . WILL.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 43 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 90 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

Takes telegram out of waist, and hands it to him . He takes it slowly, looking her squarely in the eye . WILL crosses to centre, and does not glance away while he slowly smoothes it out so that it can be read; when he finally takes it in both hands to read it she staggers back a step or two weakly . WILL. Reads the telegram aloud

Contains 74 words in 7 sentences using 327 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 53 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 41 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

[LAURA is completely overcome and unable to answer . WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 51 chars .

WILL.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

WILL. Taking a step towards her

Contains 20 words in 1 sentence using 86 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 3 sentences using 58 chars .

WILL.

Contains 109 words in 7 sentences using 476 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 2 sentences using 67 chars .

WILL.

Contains 74 words in 5 sentences using 332 chars .

LAURA. Weakly

Contains 21 words in 4 sentences using 97 chars .

WILL.

Contains 22 words in 2 sentences using 88 chars .

LAURA. Immediately regaining all her vitality

Contains 40 words in 5 sentences using 174 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 66 words in 10 sentences using 260 chars .

WILL.

Contains 48 words in 4 sentences using 210 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 19 words in 2 sentences using 90 chars .

WILL.

Contains 29 words in 2 sentences using 138 chars .

[LAURA crosses and kneels beside WILL'S chair . LAURA.

Contains 165 words in 10 sentences using 739 chars .

[LAURA breaks down and weeps . WILL. Rising, looks at her a moment as if mentally debating the best thing to do. Crosses in front of table; stands facing her with back to audience

Contains 32 words in 3 sentences using 156 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 3 sentences using 57 chars .

WILL.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 80 chars .

LAURA. Who is sitting in a chair looking straight in front of her with a set expression

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 11 chars .

LAURA sits in a chair in a state of almost stupefaction, holding this attitude as long as possible . ANNIE enters, and in a characteristic manner begins her task of tidying up the room; LAURA, without changing her attitude, and staring straight in front of her, her elbows between her knees and her chin on her hands . LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 17 words in 1 sentence using 97 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 42 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 14 words in 1 sentence using 63 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

ANNIE. Crosses to writing-desk

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 70 chars .

LAURA. Slowly turns around and looks at it

Contains 18 words in 4 sentences using 87 chars .

ANNIE. Turning

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 8 chars .

ELFIE'S VOICE. Off stage

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA immediately evinces her tremendous relief, and ELFIE, without waiting for a reply, has shoved ANNIE aside and enters , ANNIE following and closing the door . ELFIE is beautifully gowned in a morning dress with an overabundance of fur trimmings and all the furbelows that would accompany the extravagant raiment generally affected by a woman of that type . ELFIE approaching effusively . ELFIE.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

LAURA crosses and sits on sofa . ELFIE puts muff, &c., on table . ELFIE.

Contains 209 words in 25 sentences using 983 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

ELFIE. Rises; crosses to LAURA.]

Contains 33 words in 4 sentences using 153 chars .

LAURA. Going up stage

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

LAURA. Finding it almost impossible to suppress a smile

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 26 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 21 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 40 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

ELFIE. Looks at her watch

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 31 words in 5 sentences using 133 chars .

She goes up stage towards portières . ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 16 words in 2 sentences using 73 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 44 chars .

LAURA. As she goes out

Contains 16 words in 3 sentences using 71 chars .

ELFIE. Gets candy-box off desk, crosses, sits on arm of sofa, selecting candy. In a louder voice

Contains 13 words in 1 sentence using 54 chars .

LAURA. Off stage

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 80 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 81 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 26 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 94 words in 3 sentences using 470 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 46 chars .

ELFIE. With serene self-satisfaction

Contains 80 words in 5 sentences using 386 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 29 words in 4 sentences using 157 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 22 words in 2 sentences using 100 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 55 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 131 words in 14 sentences using 614 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 139 words in 8 sentences using 631 chars .

LAURA. Seriously

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 7 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 41 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 13 words in 1 sentence using 53 chars .

Sits opposite LAURA. LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

ELFIE. With a smile

Contains 13 words in 2 sentences using 64 chars .

LAURA takes the crumpled and torn telegram that WILL has left on the table and hands it to ELFIE. The latter puts the two pieces together, reads it very carefully, looks up at LAURA about middle of telegram, and lays it down . ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 107 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 27 words in 2 sentences using 131 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 20 words in 3 sentences using 89 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 42 words in 1 sentence using 194 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 28 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 88 words in 2 sentences using 381 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 36 words in 3 sentences using 173 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 45 words in 2 sentences using 191 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 62 words in 5 sentences using 300 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 24 words in 1 sentence using 110 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 23 words in 2 sentences using 108 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 91 words in 5 sentences using 450 chars .

LAURA. Turns and looks at her. There is a long pause

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 92 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 245 words in 17 sentences using 1165 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 2 sentences using 57 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 89 words in 4 sentences using 416 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 231 words in 9 sentences using 1055 chars .

The bell rings; both start . LAURA. Rises

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

[ELFIE brushes a tear quickly from her eye . ELFIE.

Contains 7 words in 2 sentences using 33 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 14 words in 3 sentences using 60 chars .

LAURA stands near the table, almost rigid. Instinctively ELFIE goes to the mirror and re-arranges her gown and hair as ANNIE exits . ELFIE turns to LAURA. ELFIE.

Contains 20 words in 1 sentence using 78 chars .

Kisses LAURA; up stage puts on coat . She goes up stage to centre; LAURA remains in her position. The doors are heard to open, and in a moment JOHN enters. He is dressed very neatly in a business suit, and his face is tanned and weather-beaten. After he enters, he stands still for a moment. The emotion that both he and LAURA go through is such that each is trying to control it , LAURA from the agony of her position, and JOHN from the mere hurt of his affection. He sees ELFIE and forces a smile . JOHN. Quietly

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 26 chars .

LAURA smiles, quickly crosses the stage, and holds out her hand . LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

Contains 18 words in 1 sentence using 93 chars .

ELFIE, with a slight gush, in her most captivating manner, goes over and holds out her gloved hand laden with bracelets, and with her sweetest smile crosses to centre . ELFIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

MADISON.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

ELFIE. Still holding JOHN'S hand

Contains 30 words in 4 sentences using 146 chars .

LAURA. As ELFIE goes toward door

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

ELFIE. With a grin

Contains 40 words in 4 sentences using 189 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

ELFIE.

Contains 17 words in 4 sentences using 83 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

[JOHN crosses up to back of sofa; removes coat, puts it on sofa . ELFIE. Goes to the door, opens it and turns . JOHN'S back is partly toward her and she gives a long wink at LAURA, snapping fingers to attract LAURA'S attention

Contains 17 words in 1 sentence using 86 chars .

After this remark both turn toward her and both smile . Exit . After ELFIE exits , JOHN turns to LAURA with a pleasant smile, and jerks his head towards the door where ELFIE has gone out . JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 26 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 27 words in 2 sentences using 108 chars .

LAURA goes to him and places herself in his arms; he kisses her affectionately. During all this scene between them the tenderness of the man is very apparent. As she releases herself from his embrace he takes her face in his hands and holds it up towards his . JOHN.

Contains 51 words in 2 sentences using 227 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 22 words in 2 sentences using 112 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 50 words in 2 sentences using 223 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 95 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 25 words in 1 sentence using 111 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 98 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN. Standing beside her chair, with a smile

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 2 sentences using 16 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 5 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 44 words in 4 sentences using 179 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 35 words in 3 sentences using 186 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 31 words in 1 sentence using 154 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 24 words in 2 sentences using 124 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 51 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 48 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 175 words in 7 sentences using 845 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 32 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 52 words in 2 sentences using 263 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 128 words in 5 sentences using 616 chars .

LAURA turns away in pain; the realization of all she is to JOHN weighs heavily upon her. She almost loses her nerve, and is on the verge of not going through with her determination to get her happiness at any price . LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 38 chars .

Rises, crosses to right . JOHN. With a light air

Contains 126 words in 7 sentences using 586 chars .

LAURA. Slowly crosses to JOHN.]

Contains 24 words in 1 sentence using 119 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 41 words in 6 sentences using 183 chars .

LAURA. Kneeling on sofa, leaning over back

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 41 chars .

JOHN. Looking off into bedroom

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 65 words in 6 sentences using 304 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 36 words in 4 sentences using 158 chars .

LAURA goes up to him, puts her hands in his, and they confront each other . LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

He takes her in his arms and kisses her again. Looks at her tenderly . JOHN.

Contains 12 words in 4 sentences using 50 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 3 sentences using 22 chars .

LAURA. Stands for a moment looking after him; then she suddenly recovers herself and walks rapidly over to the dresser, picks up large jewel-case, takes doll that is hanging on dresser, puts them on her left arm, takes black cat in her right hand and uses it in emphasizing her words in talking to ANNIE. Places them all on table

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 8 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 41 words in 4 sentences using 188 chars .

Exit LAURA with ANNIE. In a very short interval she re-appears, and both are carrying a large trunk between them. They put it down, pushing sofa back . ANNIE.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 35 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 52 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 33 words in 5 sentences using 149 chars .

LAURA pushes her in front of her. Exeunt the same way and re-appear with a smaller trunk . ANNIE.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 36 chars .

These trunks are of the same type as those in Act II. When the trunks are put down LAURA opens one and commences to throw things out . ANNIE stands watching her . LAURA kneels in front of trunk, working and humming "Bon-Bon Buddie." ANNIE.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 38 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 24 words in 4 sentences using 112 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 2 sentences using 17 chars .

ANNIE. Goes out again. Outside

Contains 20 words in 4 sentences using 94 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 23 words in 2 sentences using 103 chars .

ANNIE. Off stage

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

ANNIE hangs dresses across bed in alcove . LAURA continues busily arranging the contents of the trunk, placing some garments here and some there, as if she were sorting them out . WILL quietly enters and stands at the door, looking at her. He holds this position as long as possible, and when he speaks it is in a very quiet tone . WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

LAURA. Starts, rises, and confronts him

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

WILL.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 20 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 23 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

WILL.

Contains 23 words in 1 sentence using 106 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

WILL.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 42 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 16 words in 2 sentences using 72 chars .

WILL.

Contains 18 words in 1 sentence using 92 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 12 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

During this scene LAURA answers WILL with difficulty, and to a man of the world it is quite apparent that she is not telling the truth . WILL looks over toward her in an almost threatening way . WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 32 chars .

Crossing to centre . LAURA.

Contains 13 words in 2 sentences using 56 chars .

WILL.

Contains 16 words in 2 sentences using 75 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 99 chars .

WILL. Quietly

Contains 42 words in 3 sentences using 205 chars .

Gives her a searching look and slowly walks over to the chair at the table and sits down, still holding his hat in his hand and without removing his overcoat . LAURA sees BROCKTON sitting, stops and turns on him, laying dresses down . LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 25 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 51 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

WILL.

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 42 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 16 words in 1 sentence using 67 chars .

WILL.

Contains 10 words in 1 sentence using 42 chars .

LAURA. With suppressed emotion, almost on the verge of hysteria

Contains 111 words in 11 sentences using 492 chars .

Crossing to trunk . WILL. Rises and comes to her

Contains 40 words in 3 sentences using 156 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

WILL.

Contains 35 words in 4 sentences using 129 chars .

LAURA. Slams drawer shut, loses her temper, and is almost tiger-like in her anger

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

WILL.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 15 words in 3 sentences using 65 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 72 words in 4 sentences using 328 chars .

WILL.

Contains 15 words in 1 sentence using 67 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 40 words in 5 sentences using 185 chars .

WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 56 words in 3 sentences using 270 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 27 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 60 words in 3 sentences using 286 chars .

WILL.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 13 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 53 words in 6 sentences using 249 chars .

WILL.

Contains 6 words in 2 sentences using 26 chars .

LAURA. Screaming, crossing to WILL; she attempts to push him

Contains 97 words in 13 sentences using 397 chars .

WILL. Throwing her off; LAURA staggers to armchair, rises, crosses left

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 49 chars .

Exit . LAURA. Hysterically

Contains 17 words in 1 sentence using 67 chars .

Sinks down in exhausted state in front of trunk . CURTAIN, SLOW.
ACT IV.

SCENE. The same scene as Act III. It is about two o'clock in the afternoon .

AT RISE. When the curtain rises, there are two big trunks and one small one up stage. These are marked in the usual theatrical fashion. There are grips packed, umbrellas, and the usual paraphernalia that accompanies a woman when she is making a permanent departure from her place of living. All the bric-à-brac, &c., has been removed from dresser. On down-stage end of dresser is a small alligator bag containing night-dress, toilet articles, and bunch of keys. The dresser drawers are some of them half open, and old pieces of tissue-paper and ribbons are hanging out. The writing-desk has had all materials removed and is open, showing scraps of torn-up letters, and in one pigeonhole is a New York Central time-table; between desk and bay-window is a lady's hat-trunk containing huge picture hat. It is closed. Behind table is a suit-case with which ANNIE is working when curtain rises. Under desk are two old millinery boxes, around which are scattered old tissue-paper, a pair of old slippers, a woman's shabby hat, old ribbon, &c. In front of window at end of pianola is thrown a lot of old empty boxes, such as are used for stocking and shirtwaist boxes. The picture-frame and basket of flowers have been removed from pianola. The stool is on top of pianola, upside down. There is an empty White Rock bottle, with glass turned over it, standing between the legs of the stool. The big trunk is in front of sofa, and packed, and it has a swing tray under which is packed a fancy evening gown; the lid is down. On top of lid are an umbrella, lady's travelling-coat, hat and gloves. On left end of sofa are a large Gladstone bag, packed and fastened, a smaller trunk ( thirty-four inch ), tray with lid. In tray are articles of wearing apparel. In end of tray is revolver wrapped in tissue-paper. Trunk is closed, and supposed to be locked. Tossed across left arm of armchair are couple of violet cords. Down stage centre is a large piece of wide tan ribbon. The room has the general appearance of having been stripped of all personal belongings. There are old magazines and tissue-paper all over the place. A bearskin rug is thrown up against table in low window, the furniture is all on stage as used in Act III. At rise LAURA is sitting on trunk with clock in hand . ANNIE is on floor behind table, fastening suit-case . LAURA is pale and perturbed .

 ANNIE.

Contains 14 words in 1 sentence using 57 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 32 words in 5 sentences using 140 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 77 words in 5 sentences using 343 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 60 words in 5 sentences using 272 chars .

ANNIE. Suddenly

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 91 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 40 words in 3 sentences using 190 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 33 words in 3 sentences using 145 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 45 chars .

LAURA. Impatiently looking around the room

Contains 36 words in 2 sentences using 190 chars .

ANNIE. Sits on trunk

Contains 19 words in 2 sentences using 85 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 27 words in 4 sentences using 124 chars .

[ANNIE assumes a most aggrieved appearance . ANNIE.

Contains 39 words in 2 sentences using 178 chars .

Exit . LAURA.

Contains 21 words in 4 sentences using 101 chars .

JIM'S VOICE. Outside

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 19 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

LAURA is up stage and turns to receive visitor . JIM enters. He is nicely dressed in black and has an appearance of prosperity about him, but in other respects he retains the old drollness of enunciation and manner. He crosses to LAURA in a cordial way and holds out his hand . ANNIE crosses, after closing the door, and exits through the portières into the sleeping-apartment . JIM.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

JIM.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 40 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 21 words in 2 sentences using 93 chars .

JIM.

Contains 9 words in 3 sentences using 50 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

JIM. Surveying the baggage

Contains 7 words in 3 sentences using 36 chars .

LAURA. Very simply

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 39 chars .

JIM.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 24 chars .

JIM. Leaving the trunk, walking toward her and holding out his hands

Contains 192 words in 7 sentences using 913 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 8 chars .

JIM. Embarrassed

Contains 79 words in 1 sentence using 405 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 3 sentences using 49 chars .

JIM.

Contains 34 words in 4 sentences using 177 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 11 chars .

JIM.

Contains 25 words in 3 sentences using 111 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

JIM.

Contains 178 words in 8 sentences using 828 chars .

LAURA. With a tone of defiance in her voice

Contains 11 words in 3 sentences using 51 chars .

JIM.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 3 chars .

JIM.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 47 chars .

JIM.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 17 chars .

[LAURA rises and puts hand on JIM'S shoulder . LAURA.

Contains 65 words in 4 sentences using 299 chars .

JIM. Emphatically, and with a tone of hearty approval

Contains 123 words in 4 sentences using 530 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

JIM.

Contains 196 words in 6 sentences using 932 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JIM.

Contains 32 words in 3 sentences using 157 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 19 words in 3 sentences using 77 chars .

JIM.

Contains 13 words in 3 sentences using 61 chars .

LAURA. Very softly

Contains 16 words in 3 sentences using 74 chars .

ANNIE enters, crosses, opens door, exits, and opens the outer door . ANNIE'S VOICE.

Contains 7 words in 2 sentences using 35 chars .

LAURA hurries down to the centre of stage . JOHN enters, hat in hand and his overcoat on arm, followed by ANNIE. He stops just as he enters and looks at LAURA long and searchingly . LAURA instinctively feels that something has happened. She shudders and remains firm . ANNIE crosses and exits. Closes doors . LAURA. With a little effort . JOHN places hat and coat on trunk

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 93 chars .

LAURA. After a pause

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 28 words in 3 sentences using 144 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

He goes over to her. She intuitively understands that she is about to go through an ordeal. She seems to feel that JOHN has become acquainted with something which might interfere with their plan. He looks at her long and searchingly. Evidently he too is much wrought up, but when he speaks to her it is with a calm dignity and force which show the character of the man . JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 6 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 24 words in 1 sentence using 100 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 7 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 9 words in 1 sentence using 37 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 20 words in 1 sentence using 104 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 42 words in 4 sentences using 207 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 5 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 50 words in 3 sentences using 238 chars .

LAURA summons all her courage, looks up into his loving eyes, shrinks a moment before his anxious face, and speaks as simply as she can . LAURA.

Contains 8 words in 1 sentence using 36 chars .

JOHN. Very tenderly

Contains 31 words in 4 sentences using 136 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 14 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 9 words in 2 sentences using 42 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

Gets hat off trunk, crosses to bureau, puts it on . JOHN.

Contains 41 words in 3 sentences using 195 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 9 words in 3 sentences using 37 chars .

In the meantime JOHN crosses by to get his hat and coat, and while the preparations are about to be completed and LAURA has said "Come on," she is transfixed by the noise of the slamming of the outer door. She stops as if she had been tremendously shocked, and a moment later the rattling of a latch-key in the inner door also stops JOHN from going any further. His coat is half on . LAURA looks toward the door, paralyzed with fright, and JOHN looks at her with an expression of great apprehension. Slowly the door opens, and BROCKTON enters with coat and hat on. As he turns to close the door after him , LAURA, pitifully and terribly afraid, retreats two or three steps, and lays coat, bag, purse and umbrella down in armchair, standing dazed . BROCKTON enters leisurely, paying no attention to anyone, while JOHN becomes as rigid as a statue, and follows with his eyes every move BROCKTON makes. The latter walks leisurely across the stage, and afterwards into the rooms through the portières. There is a wait of a second. No one moves . BROCKTON finally reënters with coat and hat off, and throws back the portières in such a manner as to reveal the bed and his intimate familiarity with the outer room. He goes down stage in the same leisurely manner and sits in a chair opposite JOHN, crossing his legs . WILL.

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 36 chars .

Slowly JOHN seems to recover himself. His right hand starts up toward the lapel of his coat and slowly he pulls his Colt revolver from the holster under his armpit. There is a deadly determination and deliberation in every movement that he makes . WILL jumps to his feet and looks at him. The revolver is uplifted in the air, as a Western man handles a gun, so that when it is snapped down with a jerk the deadly shot can be fired . LAURA is terror-stricken, but before the shot is fired she takes a step forward and extends one hand in a gesture of entreaty . LAURA. In a husky voice that is almost a whisper

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 12 chars .

The gun remains uplifted for a moment . JOHN is evidently wavering in his determination to kill. Slowly his whole frame relaxes. He lowers the pistol in his hand in a manner which clearly indicates that he is not going to shoot. He quietly puts it back in the holster, and WILL is obviously relieved, although he stood his ground like a man . JOHN. Slowly

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 38 chars .

A pause . WILL. Recovering and in a light tone

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 54 chars .

JOHN. Threateningly

Contains 11 words in 2 sentences using 49 chars .

WILL.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

JOHN. To LAURA.]

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 20 words in 2 sentences using 90 chars .

LAURA. To WILL.]

Contains 4 words in 2 sentences using 19 chars .

WILL. Deliberately

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 43 chars .

Exit WILL into the sleeping-apartment . LAURA and JOHN stand facing each other. He enters again with hat and coat on, and passes over toward the door . LAURA and JOHN do not move. When he gets just a little to the left of the centre of the stage LAURA steps forward and stops him with her speech . LAURA.

Contains 136 words in 8 sentences using 599 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 106 words in 8 sentences using 484 chars .

WILL.

Contains 106 words in 8 sentences using 460 chars .

JOHN turns to her. She hangs her head and averts her eyes in a mute acknowledgment of guilt. The revelation hits JOHN so hard that he sinks on the trunk centre, his head fallen to his breast. He is utterly limp and whipped. There is a moment's silence . WILL. Crosses to JOHN.]

Contains 118 words in 9 sentences using 513 chars .

He looks at JOHN for a moment as if he was going to speak . JOHN remains motionless. The blow has hit him harder than he thought . WILL exits. The first door closes. In a moment the second door is slammed . JOHN and LAURA look at each other for a moment. He gives her no chance to speak. The hurt in his heart and his accusation are shown by his broken manner. A great grief has come into his life and he doesn't quite understand it. He seems to be feeling around for something to say, some way to get out. His head turns toward the door. With a pitiful gesture of the hand he looks at her in all his sorrow . JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 2 sentences using 6 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 10 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 15 words in 3 sentences using 68 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 29 words in 2 sentences using 117 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 29 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 32 words in 4 sentences using 125 chars .

He remains silent for a moment and then takes her by the hand, leads her over to the chair and places her in it . JOHN.

Contains 129 words in 6 sentences using 597 chars .

LAURA. In a voice that is changed and metallic. She is literally being nailed to the cross

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 31 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 83 words in 7 sentences using 371 chars .

LAURA. Still in the same metallic tone of voice

Contains 12 words in 2 sentences using 51 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 22 words in 3 sentences using 93 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 53 words in 4 sentences using 228 chars .

JOHN. Stops and looks at her

Contains 8 words in 4 sentences using 50 chars .

ANNIE. Enters

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

JOHN. [LAURA looks at JOHN in bewilderment

Contains 11 words in 1 sentence using 53 chars .

ANNIE. Frightened

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 9 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 24 words in 3 sentences using 125 chars .

LAURA. Nearly collapsing, drops the pistol to the floor

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 10 words in 2 sentences using 52 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 22 chars .

JOHN. Peremptorily

Contains 48 words in 6 sentences using 216 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 28 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 1 word in 1 sentence using 4 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 64 words in 5 sentences using 301 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 6 words in 1 sentence using 30 chars .

LAURA. Throws arms around his neck

Contains 3 words in 1 sentence using 16 chars .

JOHN.

Contains 8 words in 2 sentences using 39 chars .

He pulls away and goes out, slamming both doors . LAURA. Screaming

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 31 chars .

ANNIE. Appears through the portières

Contains 7 words in 1 sentence using 33 chars .

LAURA. Suddenly arousing herself, and with a defiant voice

Contains 54 words in 7 sentences using 244 chars .

ANNIE. In a happy voice

Contains 2 words in 1 sentence using 15 chars .

LAURA. Who is arranging her hair

Contains 4 words in 1 sentence using 18 chars .

ANNIE.

Contains 5 words in 1 sentence using 26 chars .

LAURA.

Contains 17 words in 2 sentences using 68 chars .

At this moment the hurdy-gurdy in the street, presumably immediately under her window, begins to play the tune of "Bon-Bon Buddie, My Chocolate Drop." There is something in this ragtime melody which is particularly and peculiarly suggestive of the low life, the criminality and prostitution that constitute the night excitement of that section of New York City known as the Tenderloin. The tune, — its association, — is like spreading before LAURA'S eyes a panorama of the inevitable depravity that awaits her. She is torn from every ideal that she so weakly endeavoured to grasp, and is thrown into the mire and slime at the very moment when her emancipation seems to be assured. The woman, with her flashy dress in one arm and her equally exaggerated type of picture hat in the other, is nearly prostrated by the tune and the realization of the future as it is terrifically conveyed to her. The negress, in the happiness of serving LAURA in her questionable career, picks up the melody and hums it as she unpacks the finery that has been put away in the trunk . LAURA. With infinite grief, resignation, and hopelessness

Contains 5 words in 2 sentences using 18 chars .

A SLOW CURTAIN.
END OF THE PLAY.