OLD CREOLE DAYS

Adapted from stories by George Washington Cable BY F. J. MORLOCK

  • ACT I. New Orleans in 1821.
  • ACT II.
  • ACT III.
  • This Etext is for private use only. No republication for profit in 
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    http://www.cadytech.com/dumas/personnage.asp?key=130
    CHARACTERS
    Poquelin
    D'Hemencourt
    Jules St Ange
    Jean
    Mossy
    Pere Jerome
    Shaughnessy
    Manuel Mazaro
    Governor
    Indian Charlie
    Colonel de Charleu
    Baptiste
    Bystanders
    Madame Delicieuse
    Parson Jones
    Colosus
    Pauline
    Madame Zalli
    Tite Poulette
    Vignevielle (Captain Ursin le Maitre)
    General Hercule Mossy de Villivicencio
    M. de la Rue
    Mexican
    Officer
    A Man
    

    ACT I. New Orleans in 1821.

    Scene I.

    The Cafe des Exiles, shortly before noon. Various characters enter and pass before the Cafe. D'Hemencourt, the proprietor, greets them in a friendly way. It is early, the Cafe is not yet open, but D'Hemencourt is busy getting ready for business. He is assisted by his daughter, Pauline. Madame Delicieuse passes towards her house. She greets D'Hemencourt, and calls Pauline aside; they exchange a few words. Indian Charlie lounges in the doorway of his house. He is preparing to get pleasantly drunk. He greets passersby with the affectionate tolerance of a happy alcoholic. Jules St Ange enters, elegantly dressed, a cane in his hand. This perfect boulevardier pauses near the Cafe and salutes D'Hemencourt and several other passersby. He has the habit of leaning on his cane with both arms and pivoting in all directions. St Ange is the best dressed man in the entire city of New Orleans. His manners are equally ingratiating. When he meets a woman, especially if she is pretty, he bows in greeting, the depth of the bow being regulated by the elegance of the lady. In sharp contrast to St Ange is the rough character of Jean Poquelin, an aging ruffian with a leonine countenance. Poquelin is burly, strong, and indifferent to his appearance, although his attire bears no sign of poverty. He walks across the square with evident disregard of his surroundings. Children sometimes follow him, shouting "Jean Ah Poquelin," repeating his name in a chant. Occasionally, he turns and threatens them with his stick. They run off, for there is no doubt he would use it and with effect. Poquelin then resumes his way, indifferently passing across the square. On an impulse he stops and turns back to the Cafe des Exiles.

    Poquelin
    Good afternoon, Monsieur D'Hemencourt.

    D'Hemencourt
    Bonjour, Monsieur Poquelin. It is not often you stop here.

    Poquelin
    Nor do I stop today. But I wish some information. Is it true that Monsieur le Gouverneur comes here sometimes?

    D'Hemencourt
    Yes, it is true. The Governor does so honor us. In fact, he usually comes on Saturdays. I expect he will show up about two o'clock as is his custom.

    Poquelin
    Thank you, Monsieur D'Hemencourt. I shall not forget this kindness.

    D'Hemencourt
    But it was nothing.

    (Poquelin passes on and exits.)

    (Jean, Mossy, and Pere Jerome enter and approach the cafe.)

    Mossy
    How can you be sure it was him?

    Pere Jerome
    How? It has to be him.

    Jean
    And so, our childhood friend is a pirate?

    Pere Jerome
    There's no other explanation of the stories coming out of Cuba.

    Mossy
    They say he is a marvel of gentility and courtesy.

    Jean
    And his name is Lafitte.

    Pere Jerome
    And who, nevertheless, is not Lafitte.

    Mossy
    It's true. We all know it is.

    (They have reached the Cafe; they enter and greet D'Hemencourt.)

    Pere Jerome
    You have heard of the ship which came to port here last Monday?

    Jean
    The "Spanish Lady?" An incredible story.

    Pere Jerome
    Boarded by pirates.

    Jean
    And the pirates left without harming anyone or taking any booty. . . . Why?

    Pere Jerome
    The story is that a young girl was on the ship. She went up to the pirate Captain and pointed to her Bible. He read the passage she pointed out, bowed, tipped his hat gallantly, and left. . . .

    Jean
    By he speaks English, they say.

    Pere Jerome
    He has, no doubt, learned it since he left us.

    Jean
    They say he is called Lafitte.

    Pere Jerome
    Lafitte? No, it is your wife's brother. Not Lafitte, but Le Maitre— Captain Ursin le Maitre.

    Mossy
    You just keep that cock and bull story for your next sermon.

    Pere Jerome
    I intend to. Today—

    Mossy
    I tell you—if that story about the girl is true—I tell you what is certain: Ursin le Maitre cares nothing for the Bible. He's fallen in love.

    Jean
    If he is a pirate, he has a heavy burden to bear if he is caught.

    Pere Jerome
    How can we speak of him as a lawbreaker, we, who might have saved him from that name? Had he been raised differently . . .

    Jean
    He received a good education—and he had a happy childhood. A plea like that won't save him in court, Pere Jerome.

    Pere Jerome
    But in God's eyes—. Only God alone knows how much sin is chargeable to us. I tell you, the whole community ought to be recognized as partners in his crime.

    Jean
    Bosh.

    Mossy
    Try anyway, in your sermon, to impress the parishioners that he cares for the Bible. That might be of some help to him if he is caught. Well, gentlemen, I must see my patients.

    (Mossy rises and exits. He passes Madame Delicieuse on his way, and bows with deep respect towards that lady, who smiles from her window. Meanwhile, St Ange has turned his attention to D'Hemencourt.)

    D'Hemencourt
    What a pity about Dr. Mossy, when he might be rich.

    St Ange
    Yes, his father has plenty.

    D'Hemencourt
    Certainly, and gives it freely. But General Villivicencio intends his son shall see none of it.

    St Ange
    His son? You dare not so much as mention him.

    D'Hemencourt
    They cannot agree—.

    St Ange
    Not even upon their name. Is that not droll?

    D'Hemencourt
    A man named General Villivicencio and his son, Dr. Mossy! But, it is only that the doctor drops de Villivicencio.

    St Ange
    Drops the de Villivicencio? But, I think the de Villivicencio drops him—ho, ho, ho. Diable!

    (Jules St Ange exits, well pleased with his repartee. Shaughnessy enters with Manuel Mazaro; they greet Pere Jerome and Jean.)

    Shaughnessy
    Manuel, you just take a seat while I have a word with attorney Jean.

    (Mazaro bows and finds himself a table.)

    Shaughnessy
    Good day, Father Jerome, Jean.

    Pere Jerome
    Good day, Major Shaughnessy. Are you still planning to invade Cuba?

    Shaughnessy (uncomfortable, looking around)
    Oh, you know, that's just a lot of silly talk. I'm into land development these days. Monsieur Jean, may I just have a word with you?

    Jean
    Certainly.

    Shaughnessy
    Our committee, as you know, is planning to buy some land at the end of Rue Royale—near the swamp. If you would approach Monsieur Poquelin with an offer on our behalf . . .

    Jean
    I will be glad to—but only on a fee basis—because I know he won't want to sell.

    Shaughnessy
    Well, you just make an offer of ten thousand and see what he says.

    Jean
    I'll make a special effort.

    Shaughnessy
    Thank you. Now, I'm going to pay my respects to our host.

    (Shaughnessy rises and goes to D'Hemencourt.)

    D'Hemencourt
    Ah, Major—your usual, I suppose?

    Shaughnessy
    Yes, indeed. Can't get that stuff anywhere else.

    D'Hemencourt
    Ah, Major Shaughnessy—in this Cafe, if any poor exile wants a draught that will make him remember his homeland—behold the Cafe des Exiles takes him up and gives him the breast.

    Shaughnessy
    D'Hemencourt, you are a true man of feeling.

    D'Hemencourt
    I am, I am. That is why I tried, for years, to keep up my position without descending into trade. But it was not possible. I had to think of Pauline.

    (At these words, Manuel Mazaro, who has been listening indifferently, rises and tries to loiter within earshot. D'Hemencourt pauses, and after an awkward moment, the frustrated Mazaro moves off. Shaughnessy is not aware of these maneuvers.)

    Shaughnessy
    She is an excellent and beautiful girl, deserving of all respect.

    D'Hemencourt
    Respect, yes. But, they never pay their respects. After all, a cafe is a cafe.

    Shaughnessy
    It's different from the Cafe des Refugees.

    D'Hemencourt
    Different as possible. If a man has no money, it matters not. Here is a rocking chair, here a cigarette, here a light. He will pay for them when he can.

    Shaughnessy
    And more than that—no other cafe has Pauline.

    D'Hemencourt
    Ah!

    (Shaughnessy goes to Mazaro's table and talks to him in a conspiratorial whisper. The Governor now enters with Jules St Ange. D'Hemencourt greets him.)

    D'Hemencourt
    You honor us again, Monsieur le Gouverneur, I have saved your favorite table.

    Governor
    You know, D'Hemencourt, I think it's important to socialize with the public.

    (The Governor is seated with his interpreter, Jules St Ange.)

    (Poquelin enters, goes to the Governor and bows stiffly.)

    Poquelin
    You the Governor, Monsieur?

    (The Governor rises and bows.)

    Poquelin
    Parlez vous Francais?

    Governor
    I would rather talk English, if you can do so. If not, M'sieur St Ange acts as my interpreter.

    Poquelin
    My name, Jean Poquelin.

    Governor
    How can I serve you, Mr. Poquelin?

    Poquelin
    My house is by the swamp at the end of the Rue Royale.

    Governor
    Go on.

    Poquelin
    That swamp belong to me.

    Governor
    Yes, sir.

    Poquelin
    To me, Jean Poquelin. I own him meself.

    Governor
    Well, sir?

    Poquelin
    He don't belong to you; I get him from me father.

    Governor
    I am sure that's perfectly true.

    Poquelin
    You want to make strit pass there?

    Governor
    I'm not sure. Perhaps.

    Poquelin
    Strit cannot pass there.

    Governor
    You will be compensated—get paid, you understand. But, it's up to the city fathers.

    Poquelin
    Pardon, Monsieur, you is not le Gouverneur?

    Governor
    I am the Governor. Appointed by the President.

    Poquelin
    Mais, yes. You are le Gouverneur—yes. Veh—well. I come to you. I tell you, strit cannot pass at me house.

    Governor
    But—

    Poquelin
    I come to you. You is le Gouverneur—I know not the new laws. I am French man. French a—man have something aller au contraire— He come at his Gouverneur, I come at you. If Napoleon had not sold us like vassals, the King of France would show Monsieur le Gouverneur to take care his men to make strit in right place. Mais, I know we belong to Monsieur le President. Things have change. I want you to do something for me, eh?

    Governor
    What?

    Poquelin
    Tell Monsieur le President, strit cannot pass at my house.

    Governor
    You are certainly an odd chap, Mr. Poquelin. (pause) Monsieur Poquelin, is it your house that they tell such odd stories about?

    Poquelin
    You don't see me trade some niggah?

    Governor
    Oh, no.

    Poquelin
    You don't see me make some smugglin'?

    Governor
    No, sir. Not at all.

    Poquelin
    I am Jean-Marie Poquelin. I mine me own bizness. Dat all right?

    Governor
    Yes, sir.

    Poquelin
    I give you fair warning, you muz not make that strit pass at my house.

    Governor
    Why not? Why do you object?

    Poquelin
    The marsh is too unhealth for people to live.

    Governor
    But the marsh will be drained.

    Poquelin
    The canal is a private.

    Governor
    Filling up the marsh will make your property worth ten dollars to one.

    Poquelin
    Je comprends, je comprends. You comprenez: I don't allow. Tell Monsieur le President.

    (Poquelin bows and stalks off.)

    Governor
    What a character, eh Jules?

    St Ange
    You know what makes Jean Poquelin make like that?

    Governor
    I'd like to know.

    St Ange
    He is a witch.

    Governor
    Ho, ho, ho.

    St Ange
    You don't believe it? What you want to bet? What you want to bet?

    Governor
    How do you know?

    St Ange
    Dass what I goin' to tell you. You know, one evening, I was out hunting. It was getting dark, so I start to come home. Then I got to pass at Jean Poquelin's house.

    Governor
    And you saw a ghost, eh?

    St Ange
    I come slow—slow. Not making some noises; still, still.

    Governor (chuckling)
    And scared.

    St Ange
    Mais, wait. I get all pass the house. Then I see two things before. You think it was nothing? There I see, so plain as can be, Jean-Marie Poquelin—and beside him, something like a man, but not a man—white like paint. I drop on the grass from scared—they pass.

    Governor (uneasy)
    What was it?

    St Ange
    So sure as I live, the ghost of Jacques Poquelin, his brother.

    Governor
    Pooh.

    St Ange
    I'll put my hand in the fire.

    Governor
    Maybe it was Jack Poquelin—alive and well—and hid away for some cause.

    St Ange
    But there was no cause. Jacques Poquelin been dead these twenty years.

    (The Governor shudders involuntarily)

    Shaughnessy (To Mazaro)
    I'll bet that's old Poquelin got his brother there in his house, not dead at all. Maybe we can use that information.

    (Pere Jerome and Jean are about to leave. Shaughnessy motions Jean aside, and they talk. Colonel de Charleu and Indian Charlie enter together.)

    Charlie
    It's very thoughtful of you to invite me for a drink, cousin. Really nice.

    (The Colonel and Charlie sit at a table. D'Hemencourt comes to them, and takes their order.)

    Colonel
    Eh, well, Charlie. How is those times with my friend Charlie?

    Charlie
    Eh— every day he make me more poorer.

    Colonel (getting down to business)
    What do you ask for it?

    Charlie
    Ask for what?

    Colonel
    De house! What do you ask for it?

    Charlie
    I don't believe—

    Colonel
    What would you take for it?

    Charlie
    I don't want to sell him.

    Colonel
    I'll give you ten thousand dollar for it.

    Charlie
    Ten thousand dollar for dat house? Oh, no. Dat is no price. He is blame good old house. Forty years dat old house didn't had to be paint. I can get fifty thousand dollar for that old house.

    Colonel
    Fifty thousand picayunes, yes.

    Charlie
    She's a good house. Can make plenty money.

    Colonel
    That's what makes so you rich, eh Charlie?

    Charlie
    No, I don't make nothing. Too blame clever me, dat de troub. She's a good house, make money fast, like a steam boat, make a barrelful in a week. Me, I lose money all de days. Too blame clever. (he drinks)

    Governor (paying and leaving)
    If I need you to translate, Jules, I'll send for you. enjoy the weekend.

    (The Governor leaves.)

    Colonel
    Charlie.

    Charlie
    Eh?

    Colonel
    Tell me what you'll take.

    Charlie
    You want to buy her?

    Colonel
    Maybe, if you sell it cheap.

    Charlie
    Old injun Charlie is a low down dog. He's got injun blood in him. But he's got some blame good blood, too, ain't it?

    Colonel
    Bien.

    Charlie
    Old Charlie's injun blood says, "Sell de house, Charlie, you blame old fool." Mais, old Charlie's good blood says "Charlie, if you sell dat old house, what de Comte de Charleu make for your great gran' mother, de devil can eat you."

    Colonel
    But, you'll sell it anyhow, won't you old man?

    Charlie (decisively)
    No.

    (Baptiste, St Ange's servant enters and goes to St Ange.)

    Baptiste
    Bull fight this afternoon!

    St Ange
    There is to be a bull fight? Where?

    Baptiste
    In the Place Congo.

    St Ange
    I think I prefer to see Madame Zalli do the Dance du Shawl at the Conde.

    Baptiste
    Not an ordinary bull fight, but a bull and a tiger. I for one don't want to miss it. . . .

    (Jules and Baptiste exit.)

    Charlie
    I'll trade with you.

    Colonel (interested)
    How will you trade?

    Charlie
    My house for yours.

    Colonel
    Trade Belles Demoiselles Plantation to you? (he scoffs)

    Charlie
    For what do you want him, eh?

    Colonel
    That's none of your business.

    (Two or three men run by in the street, in opposite directions. Voices of Bystanders: "What's the matter? Is it a fight? Somebody hurt?)

    Madame Delicieuse (appearing on her balcony)
    Personne. A man lost his hat and Jules St Ange picked it up. The man is a giant.

    (The crowd flows back. A man of gigantic stature, Parson Jones enters, holding his hat, talking to Jules.)

    Jones
    You're a plum gentleman.

    Jules (pointing to the banknotes in the hat)
    Ah?

    Jones
    Why, that money belongs to the Smyrny Church.

    Jules
    You are very dangerous to make your money expose like that Posson Jone.

    Jones
    I've done been to Mobile on business for Smyrny Church. It's the on'yest time I have ever been from home: now you wouldn't of believed that, would you?

    Jules (fascinated by the banknotes)
    Non—mais . . .

    Jones
    You've got to come and eat with me. Me and my boy ain't been fed yet. What might one call yo' name?

    Jules
    Jules.

    Jones
    Jools? Come on, Jools. Come on, Colossus. That's my niggah. Is that yo' yellah boy, Jools? (pointing to Baptiste)

    Jules
    Oui.

    Jones
    Fetch him along, Colossus. It seems like a special providence. Jools, do you believe in a special providence?

    Jules (still hypnotized by the banknotes)
    Now, more than ever. I think you is juz right. I believe me strong— strong in the improvidence, yes. You know my Papa, he own a shugah plantation. "Jules, my son," he say one time to me, "I goin' to make you one baril of shugah fedge de mozt high price in New Orleans." "Well," he says, "Jules, go at Father Pierre, an ged this lil pitcher fill with holy water, and tell him send his tin bucket, and I will make it fill with brandy." So, I get the holy water; my Papa sprinkle it over the baril, and make on cross on the head of the baril.

    Jones
    Why, Jools, that didn't do no good.

    Jules
    Did no good. It brought the so great value. You can strike me dead if it didn't fedge the more high cost than any other in the city. Parceque, the man what buy that baril shugah, he make a mistake of one hundred pounds. Mais certainlee.

    Jones
    And you think that was growin' out of the holy water?

    Jules
    Mais, what else can it be? It could not be the brandy, because my Papa keep the bucket and forget to send the brandy to Father Pierre.

    Jones
    Well now, Jools, you know I don't think that was right. You must be a plum Catholic.

    Jules
    I am a Catholique, mais, (brightening) not a good one.

    (They go into the Cafe and take seats.)

    Jones
    Colossus and this boy can go to the kitchen. Now, Colossus, what is you a beckonin' for?

    (Parson Jones lets Colossus draw him aside and whisper in his ear.)

    Jones
    Oh, go 'way. Who's goin' to throw me? What? Speak louder. 'Pon my soul, you're the mightiest fool I ever taken up with. Just you go to the kitchen with that yellah boy and don't you show yo' face until yo' called.

    (Colossus doesn't move.)

    Jones
    Colossus, will you do ez I tell you, or shall I have to strike you?

    Colossus I goin', but don't you on no account drink nothin'.

    Jones
    Yo' plum crazy. To tell me that, when I never taken a drop except for chills in my life. Which you knows as well as me.

    (Colossus and Baptiste go out.)

    Jones
    No, I wouldn't sell him though there's people say he's a rascal. He's a powerful smart fool. Why, that boy's got money, Jools. More money than religion, I reckon: I'm shoe he's fallen into mighty bad company.

    (They sit down and order; D'Hemencourt comes over to take the order.)

    Colonel
    I'll give you forty thousand dollars.

    (Charlie shakes his head.)

    Colonel
    Forty-five

    Charlie
    What a lie.

    Colonel
    Fifty.

    (Charlie shakes his head.)

    Colonel (wildly)
    Seventy-five.

    Charlie
    Can't you leave an old man alone?

    (The Colonel shows no sign of leaving.)

    Charlie
    Tell you what, I'll make wid you . . .

    Colonel
    Don't start that again.

    Charlie
    How much Belles Demoiselles worth? Too much. I don't want Belles Demoiselles.

    Colonel (laughs)

    Charlie
    But me—me—I'm got le Comte de Charleu's blood in me—anyhow, a lil bit, anyhow—ain't it?

    Colonel
    Oui.

    Charlie
    Bien! If I go out of dis place, and don't go to Belles Demoiselles, de people will say—dey will say, Old Charlie, he been, all doze years, tell a blame lie. He ain't no kin to de Charleu. Not one drop to save his blame, low down old injun soul. (pause) No, sare! What I wan' wid money, den? No sare! My place for yours.

    End Scene I.

    Scene II.

    The same, much later that afternoon. Pauline and Madame Delicieuse are conferring on the steps of Madame Delicieuse' house.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Vous savez, it is now long that Dr. Mossy and his father have been in disaccord.

    Pauline
    Indeed, when have they not differed?

    Madame Delicieuse
    When Mossy was a little boy, the General, his father, thought it was hard he was not rowdy. He switched him because he would not play with his toy gun.

    Pauline
    My father says he was not so high (gesturing) when the General wished to send him to Paris to enter the French Army; but Mossy would not go.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I am determined they shall make it up.

    Pauline
    Clarisse, even you will not succeed.

    Madame Delicieuse
    That old fool is in love with me. If he expects to get anywhere with me, he must do what I say.

    Pauline
    But Clarisse, General Villivicencio is so stubborn . . .

    Madame Delicieuse
    And me? Am I not stubborn? What is the use of being loved, if you can't make the man who loves you obey you? I shall make him greet his son tonight.

    Pauline
    How?

    Madame Delicieuse
    Just wait.

    (In the Cafe, Jules St Ange and Parson Jones are seated at a table.)

    Jules
    This coffee is execrable. I cannot touch it. We can go to the French market and get some good coffee.

    Jones
    Not me, Jools.

    Jules
    But, why?

    Jones
    Every man has his conscience to guide him.

    Jules
    Oh, yes! Conscience. That is the bezt Posson Jone. Certainlee! I am a CATHOLIQUE, you is a SCHISMATIQUE; you think it is wrong to drink some coffee—then it is wrong; you think it is wrong to make the shugah get so large price—then it is wrong. I think it is right—then it is right. It is all habit. C'est tout. What a man thinks is right, is right. A man muzt not go again his conscience. My faith! Do you think I would go againzt my conscience?

    Jones
    Of course not, Jools.

    Jules
    Well, let us go and get some coffee.

    Jones (patiently)
    Jools.

    Jules
    What?

    Jones
    Jools, it ain't the drinkin' of coffee, but the buyin' of it on a Sabbath.

    Jules
    Ah, c'est very true. For you, it would be a sin, but for me, it is only a habit. Religion is a very strange thing. I know a man, one time he think it is wrong to go to a cock fight on Sunday. Bah. Only a habit. (pause) Still, if it cause you a problem, we can go to my friend Miguel's and get some coffee.

    Jones (shamefaced)
    Why Jools, m'dear friend, you know I never visit on Sundays.

    Jules
    Never, what?

    Jones
    No.

    Jules
    Never visit?

    Jones
    Exceptin' sometimes amongst church members.

    Jules
    Mais, Miguel is a church member.— Certainlee! He love to talk religion. I am nearly expire for my coffee.

    Jones (rising)
    Jools, I ought to be in Church right now.

    Jules
    Mais, the Church is right yonder at Miguel, yes. I think every man muzt have the religion he like bezt. Every man will sure go to heaven if he like his religion the bezt.

    Jones (troubled)
    Jools, do yo' think yo' have any sure hopes of heaven?

    Jules
    Yes, I am sure—sure. I think everybody will go to heaven. I think you will go, and Miguel will go, and I—of course, not if they have not been christened—even I think some niggers will go.

    Jones
    Jools—wait. I don't want to lose my niggah.

    Jules
    You will not lose him. With Baptiste he cannot get lost.

    Jones
    Still, had I of gone to church . . .

    Jules
    Posson Jone.

    Jones
    What?

    Jules
    I tell you, we goin' to church.

    Jones
    Will you?

    Jules
    Allons—come along.

    (They pay and go out.)

    (Zalli and Tite Poulette enter and cross the Square.)

    Zalli
    Tite Poulette, you are seventeen.

    Poulette
    True, maman.

    Zalli
    Ah, my child, I do not see how you are to meet the future.

    Poulette
    Why not, maman?

    Zalli
    You are not like the others. No fortune, no pleasures, no FRIENDS.

    Poulette
    Maman!

    Zalli
    No, no. I thank God for it! I am glad you are not, but you will be lonely, lonely, all your poor life long. There is no place in this world for us poor women. I wish that we were either white or black.

    Poulette
    God made us, maman.

    Zalli
    Sin made me, yes.

    Poulette
    No. God made us. He made us just as we are; not white, not black.

    Zalli
    He made you. You are so beautiful, my sweet white daughter.

    Poulette
    And could I be whiter than I am?

    Zalli
    Oh, no, no. But, if only we were real white, so some gentleman might call and say, "Madame Zalli—I want your pretty little chick to be my wife." To see that, I would give my life.

    Poulette
    Don't worry about me, maman.

    (Enter Pere Jerome)

    Zalli
    Good afternoon, Pere Jerome. We thank God for that wonder sermon.

    Jerome Then, so do I.

    Poulette
    Pere Jerome, what was the name of that man . . . ?

    Jerome What man?

    Poulette
    The pirate—it was such a beautiful story—.

    Jerome His name—(evasively)—some say one name, and some say another. Some think it was Jean Lafitte.

    Zalli
    Tite Poulette, can you go home by yourself? I want to talk to Pere Jerome—alone.

    Poulette
    Of course, maman.

    (Tite Poulette goes to her home and enters the house.)

    Zalli
    I probably should have said this in confessional.

    Pere Jerome
    No matter. Perhaps you want a friend, not an oracle.

    Zalli
    I have done a bad thing.—I fell in love.

    Jerome Love is the right of every soul. If your love was pure, I am sure your angel guardian smiled upon you.

    Zalli
    It was not pure. And the man I loved was white. He was good.— I believe he would have married me if the law allowed it—but it did not. He managed to leave me property—(pointing)—that house—. He sent our daughter to live in Boston, with relatives, but recently, they died, and—

    Jerome And, at last your mother's heart conquered.

    Zalli
    She did not escape reproach, even there. So, I brought her here. She came on the "Spanish Lady" two weeks ago.

    Jerome I suppose she is a sweet, good daughter—

    Zalli
    The very best.

    Jerome Which gives us a dilemma in its fullest force. She has no more place here, than if she had dropped upon a strange planet.

    Zalli
    If I should die—

    Jerome Well, Madame Zalli, one thing is sure: we must find a way out of this trouble.

    Zalli
    But, how?

    Jerome God knows.

    Zalli
    If god tells anybody, he will tell you.

    Jerome Do you think so? Well, leave me to think about it. I will pray and ask him.

    Zalli
    I am just going to say Hail Marys all the time, till you find that out for me.

    Jerome Well, I hope that will be soon.

    Zalli
    Good bye, Pere Jerome. (she follows her daughter's path to her house)

    (Vignevielle enters the Square and sees Jerome. He stops.)

    Jerome Well, a-day, old playmate, after so many years.

    Vignevielle
    Ursin le Maitre is dead, Jerome. He left a will. I am his executor.

    Jerome Ah, le roi est mort, vive le roi. What will you do?

    Vignevielle
    I've a lot to atone for—that is Captain le Maitre has a lot to atone for. He also left a lot of money.— I think I will open a bank.

    Jerome A bank?

    Vignevielle
    I can do a lot of good that way. Loan money to people who really need it—the devil with interest. (pause) Do you know, if Ursin le Maitre had been able to get a loan of four hundred dollars, he wouldn't have turned pirate?

    Jerome Where did you hear that story?

    Vignevielle
    His dying words. Can I see you all tonight? I want to see Mossy and Jean.

    Jerome Of course.

    Vignevielle
    Expect me around eight.

    (Vignevielle leaves, leaving Pere Jerome, if anything, more puzzled than he was before. Madame Zalli returns.)

    Zalli
    I wanted to say one more thing.

    Jerome Madame Zalli, you saw that man?

    Zalli
    Yes—?

    Jerome You wouldn't believe me if I told you what that man proposes to do.

    Zalli
    Is that so, Pere Jerome?

    Jerome He is going to open a bank.

    Zalli
    Ah, but is that so strange?

    Jerome He is God's own banker, Madame Zalli.

    Zalli
    Pere Jerome . . . you know how I earn a living?

    Jerome No,—not exactly. I suppose you live off the property your, er—the property you were left.

    Zalli
    No. It is not enough for that. I dance the Dance du Shawl at the Salle de Conde.

    Jerome Well, well, Madame Zalli, that is unusual, but not immoral.

    Zalli (deeply moved)
    Thank you, Pere Jerome.

    (They part, Zalli following her daughter, Pere Jerome in the other direction. Both exit. Shaughnessy enters from the direction of Madame Zalli's house.)

    Shaughnessy
    Fact is, it would take us at least twelve months to make Mr. Poquelin understand the rather original features of our plan, and he wouldn't subscribe even then. Besides, the only way to see him, is to stop him in the streets.

    Mazaro
    I'd rather meet a bear robbed of her whelps.

    Shaughnessy
    You're mistaken as to that. I did meet him, stopped him, and found him quite polite. But, I could get no satisfaction from him. The fellow wouldn't speak English, and when I spoke in French, he gave the same answer to everything I said. That it was not worthwhile.

    Mazaro
    He always says that.

    Shaughnessy
    Old Poquelin does everything he can to prevent anyone coming near his house. Now, I have heard a ghost story. Course, I don't believe in ghosts, savin' the little people, you understand—. He's got somebody locked up out there— Most likely, his brother.

    Mazaro
    How do you propose to handle the subject?

    Shaughnessy
    It would be inadvisable for us to formally authorize any action involving trespass. But if one of us were to informally look into it—

    Mazaro
    It's an action we owe to the community.

    (They wander into the Cafe.)

    End Scene II.

    Scene III.

    Later that evening. Madame Delicieuse's balcony. Madame Delicieuse and the General are alone.

    Madame Delicieuse
    General, had I not some beautiful ladies on my balcony this morning? A veritable bouquet?

    General Villivicencio (gallantly)
    It was as magnificent as could be expected with the central rose wanting.

    Madame Delicieuse
    But, ah, General, if you had heard what some of those rosebuds said of you!

    General Villivicencio (preening)
    I am sure I don't deserve any praise from the ladies.

    Madame Delicieuse
    You have been spoken against.

    General Villivicencio
    It is some time since the ladies have had cause to complain of me.

    Madame Delicieuse
    A lady said today—but, you will be angry with me.

    General Villivicencio
    With you, Madame, it is not possible.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I don't like to bear tales, but . . .

    General Villivicencio
    You are an angel. But what said she?

    Madame Delicieuse
    Well—this woman said "All the world knows General Villivicencio treats his son badly. Don't marry a man like that."

    General Villivicencio (muttering)
    It is not true.

    Madame Delicieuse
    "But what did his son do?" I asked. "Nothing," she said. Me, I would be angry too, if my son had done nothing for fifteen years.

    General Villivicencio (vexed)
    It is nothing to joke about.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Exactly what I thought,—but (sweetly) what could I do? I had no idea what your son had done. Nor did I wish to know, or hear, anything against one who has the honor to call you his father.

    General Villivicencio
    Madame is too kind.

    Madame Delicieuse
    So, I said, "No one has a right to be angry with so noble, kind, and brave a young man."

    General Villivicencio (ironically)
    Brave!

    Madame Delicieuse
    Of course, braver than any soldier. Does he not tend the small pox, the cholera, and other infectious diseases without flinching from his duty?

    General Villivicencio (reluctantly)
    Dr. Mossy practices his profession with honor, still—.

    Madame Delicieuse
    And, do you know what that catty woman said?

    General Villivicencio
    Eh?

    Madame Delicieuse
    She said, "I have seen his father once run from a snake."

    General Villivicencio
    An execrable lie. That woman is a viper. I should run from her.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I could hardly deny that your son was a noble gentleman—

    General Villivicencio
    Certainly, my son is a gentleman.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Another lady said, "Do you know why his father is angry so long? It is because he refused to become a soldier."

    General Villivicencio
    All the Villivicencios have been soldiers. For six hundred years.

    Madame Delicieuse
    A great tradition. But, no reason there cannot be a doctor in the family.

    General Villivicencio
    At least he could have been a military surgeon.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I am sure you love him no less for healing than for killing.

    General Villivicencio
    Perhaps, Clarisse, it would be better if—

    Madame Delicieuse
    That other lady, the viper, said "No ladies, I am going to tell you why Monsieur le General is angry with his son. It is just because—he is—a little man."

    (General Villivicencio stands straight up.)

    Madame Delicieuse
    Ah, cherie, I have wounded you. They are wretched girls, and I am a wretched tattler.

    General Villivicencio
    Ah, no, Madame. You are my dearest friend, yes.

    Madame Delicieuse (brightly)
    But, for all that they admire you. They said you look glorious— grand—at the head of a parade. And, I think so, too.

    General Villivicencio
    You are too good, Clarisse.

    Madame Delicieuse (returning to the attack)
    Anyhow, I told them they were fools. I said you had a very good reason for your attitude. But, when they asked me to disclose it, I had to say it was a secret, for I didn't want to say you've never told me.

    General Villivicencio
    Of course, I have an excellent reason. (hesitates) It's difficult to explain. Besides, it is a sort of secret.

    Madame Delicieuse (feigning pain)
    A secret from me?

    General Villivicencio
    Someday, I shall tell you. I have more than one burden here. (pressing his heart)

    Madame Delicieuse (with insincere sympathy)
    Pauvre General. (she is annoyed that he has eluded her)

    General Villivicencio
    You could ease one of my burdens, Clarisse.

    Madame Delicieuse (innocently)
    Ah, how?

    General Villivicencio
    Be my wife.

    Madame Delicieuse (coldly)
    Hercule, I shall always be your dear friend, but isn't this a bit premature?

    General Villivicencio
    Premature? I've been trying to say this for months.

    Madame Delicieuse (mischievously)
    Did you lack courage?

    General Villivicencio (honestly)
    Well—yes. I'd rather brave a cannon or a dentist than propose.

    Madame Delicieuse
    What I mean, Hercule, is—don't you think you ought to do something to please me?

    General Villivicencio
    But, for a year now, I've been doing everything I can think of to please you. (he is puzzled)

    Madame Delicieuse
    How can you say that! Isn't it obvious that I've been trying to reconcile you and Dr. Mossy for some time now—?

    General Villivicencio (icily)
    Very.

    Madame Delicieuse (haughtily)
    And you spurn my efforts?

    General Villivicencio (confused)
    I don't spurn them. I just—

    Madame Delicieuse
    And you think to ingratiate yourself with me in this bumptious way?

    General Villivicencio
    My dear Clarisse— It is a personal matter.

    Madame Delicieuse
    You propose to me, and tell me that my stepson is "a personal matter" in which I am not allowed to interfere. As if I have no interest or right?

    General Villivicencio (retreating)
    Of course you have a right.

    Madame Delicieuse
    You must know, I like to get my way about everything. Especially family matters. I think you must be one of those gallants who believe that irritating a woman is the way to her heart. Well, it won't work with me. The answer is "No, I will not be your wife, Monsieur le General."

    (And turning her back on the helpless General, she stalks off.)

    End of Scene III.

    Scene IV.

    The Cafe des Exiles, later the same evening. Manuel Mazaro is talking to D'Hemencourt.

    Mazaro
    You should have seen him laugh. "She thinks I want to marry her," he said.

    D'Hemencourt
    Manuel Mazaro, if what you say is not true . . .

    Mazaro
    If it is not true, you will kill Manuel Mazaro? All right—

    D'Hemencourt
    Not I. But, I am positive Major Shaughnessy will shoot you.

    Mazaro
    Says to me, "Manuel, you go tell Senor D'Hemencourt I find you some night and cut your heart out." But if Senor D'Hemencourt finds out from Pauline . . .

    D'Hemencourt
    Silence, Sieur Mazaro. Neither you nor anyone else shall use the name of my daughter. It is not possible. I shall not permit that.

    Mazaro (nodding approval)
    Correct, correct, Senor. You are right. Excuse me, Senor, excuse me. The Major uses her name when he talks to me—all the time.

    D'Hemencourt
    But, Manuel Mazaro, if what you say is not true—I will request you never to return to the Cafe des Exiles.

    Mazaro (leaving You shall find it is true.

    (Mazaro exits to the street, Pauline enters from the kitchen.)

    Pauline
    Papa, Papa, it is not true.

    D'Hemencourt
    You heard? No, my child, I am sure it is not true. But, why do I find you out of bed so late, little bird?

    Pauline
    Ah, Papa, I thought Manuel would tell you something of the kind, and I listened.

    D'Hemencourt (suspicious and grieved)
    Ah, my child—if Manuel's story is all false, in the name of Heaven, how could you know he was going to tell it?

    (Pauline is silent.)

    D'Hemencourt
    Speak my child. Speak!

    Pauline
    Oh, Papa,—I do not know.— Something told me.

    D'Hemencourt
    Your conscience told you.

    Pauline
    No, no, no, Papa. I was afraid of Manuel Mazaro. He hates the Major and will hurt him any way he can. He will even try to kill him.

    D'Hemencourt
    You know something else. You know the Major loves you, or you think so: is it not true?

    Pauline
    I would give worlds to think so.

    D'Hemencourt
    Oh, my child, my child. Your Papa is not angry. What will I do without you? (pause) You were right. The Cafe des Exiles never should have been opened. It is no place for you. No place at all!

    Pauline
    Let us leave it.

    D'Hemencourt
    It is too late.

    Pauline
    Why?

    D'Hemencourt (gravely)
    Daughter, I cannot tell you. You must go to bed. Good night. God keep you.

    Pauline
    The Blessed Virgin will care for us.

    (She goes into the house, D'Hemencourt, in a troubled way, looks after her as the curtain falls.)

    End of Scene IV.

    CURTAIN

    ACT II.

    Scene I.

    The next day, early afternoon. Major Shaughnessy is approaching the Cafe when Mazaro gestures to him furtively. After a slight hesitation, the Major allows Manuel to draw him aside. Meanwhile, in the Cafe, Mossy is seated, reading a manuscript.

    Shaughnessy
    D'ye want to see me, Manuel?

    Mazaro
    You must avoid the Cafe. There are to men hanging about, evidently watching for you.

    Shaughnessy
    What do they want?

    Mazaro
    You ought to know.

    Shaughnessy
    Why don't they look for me in the Cafe Anglais. I'm there mot of the time.

    Mazaro
    They are probably afraid to do anything in that crowd.

    Shaughnessy
    That's so. Very well, I'll not go. We've no business tonight, eh Manuel?

    Mazaro
    None at all.

    (Shaughnessy turns on his heel and leaves as he came. Mazaro continues to hang about. General Villivicencio enters. Seeing Mossy, he pauses. He looks at Madame Delicieuse's balcony. He twirls his moustaches furiously. Finally, he makes up his mind, crossing himself, he enters the Cafe.)

    General Villivicencio
    Good afternoon, Doctor—

    Mossy
    Be seated, Papa.

    (The General sits stiffly and clears his throat.)

    Mossy
    Is all going well, Papa?

    General Villivicencio
    Yes. (pause of painful silence)

    Mossy
    Beautiful day.

    General Villivicencio
    Exceptionally.

    Mossy
    I thought it would rain, but it cleared off.

    General Villivicencio (drumming the table with his fingers)
    So it did.

    Mossy
    It appears to be turning cool.

    General Villivicencio
    No, it is not turning cool at all.

    Mossy
    H'mmm.

    General Villivicencio
    Hem!

    Mossy (stealing a glance at his manuscript)
    Ummm.

    General Villivicencio (with frigid politeness)
    I am interrupting you.

    Mossy
    No, no! Pardon me; be seated. It gives me great pleasure to have you here.

    General Villivicencio (drumming again)
    The city—it is healthy?

    Mossy
    Huh?

    General Villivicencio
    The city has not much sickness at the moment?

    Mossy
    No—er, yes— Not much. (stealing another glance at his manuscript)

    General Villivicencio (on his feet immediately)
    I must go.

    Mossy (also rising)
    Ah, no, Papa.

    General Villivicencio
    But yes, I must.

    Mossy
    But wait, Papa. I had just now something to speak of—

    General Villivicencio (sitting)
    Of course—

    Mossy
    It's gone out of my head—

    General Villivicencio (rising immediately)
    Perhaps, it will come another time.

    Mossy
    Ah, now I remember. I congratulate you on your nomination to be Governor. I can't imagine why I momentarily forgot.

    General Villivicencio (preening)
    My friends compelled me to run.

    Mossy
    They really think you will be elected?

    General Villivicencio
    They do not doubt it. But what think you, my son?

    Mossy (sincerely)
    They could not elect a better man.

    General Villivicencio (bowing)
    Perhaps the people will think so; my friends believe they will. (he is flattered by the compliment, and shows it, despite himself)

    Mossy
    Still—all these Yankees. You won't be too disappointed if you are not elected, I hope?

    General Villivicencio
    Me? I should hope a Villivicencio knows how to bear defeat as well as victory.

    Mossy
    Still. These campaigns get rather vitriolic.

    General Villivicencio
    I shall not engage in mudslinging.

    Mossy
    I hope your opponents won't.

    General Villivicencio
    If they do, they shall answer for it.

    Mossy
    Your friends should help you as much as they can Papa. Myself, I should like to assist you.

    General Villivicencio (emotionally)
    Really, Victorien, you please me more than I can say.— This is like a son.

    Mossy
    But, I don't see what I can do.

    General Villivicencio (disappointed)
    Ahhh!

    Mossy
    Not being a public man. Unless, perhaps, I could write editorials for you. That's it!

    General Villivicencio
    Certainly—certainlee! Ah, Mossy, you are right. The pen they say is mightier than the sword. Well, my son—au revoire. I really cannot stay. But I will see you again soon. I hasten to tell my friends that the pen of Dr. Mossy is on our side.

    (The General rises, and salutes his son with great cordiality. He goes out and enters Madame Delicieuse's house. As he leaves, he passes Jules St Ange leading in Parson Jones who is the picture of a big man with an even bigger hangover. The Parson's exuberant personality is crestfallen. Though he is a giant, he feels himself a pygmy, especially morally. They sit down, D'Hemencourt greets them. They order. Jules is jubilant.)

    Jones
    How'd you get me out of jail, Jules?

    Jules
    I tell the judge you are innocent.

    (Jones groans.)

    Jules
    Mr. Posson Jone—

    Jones (despairing)
    Oh, Jools.

    Jules
    Mais, what de matter, Posson Jone?

    Jones (groaning)
    My sins, Jools, my sins.

    Jules
    Ah, Mr. Posson Jone, you make a so droll sermon at the bull ring. Ha, ha, I swear I think you can make the money to preach. How you do it? How you carry the tiger?

    (Jones lets out a deep groan. He feels his sin upon him.)

    Jules
    Hah, you is the mozt brave man dat I never see, mais at the same time, the mozt religious man.

    Jones (with unbearable guilt)
    I was to have left for home tomorrow sun-up on the Schooner Isabella. Poor Smyrny.

    Jules
    Mais, why can't you cheer up an be happy. Me, if I should be miserable like that, I would kill myself.

    (There is a pause. Jones is crying.)

    Jules
    Ah, Posson Jone, is that something to cry, because a man get sometime a litt bit intoxicated? Mais, if a man keep all the time intoxicate, I think that is again the conscience.

    Jones
    What exactly did I do?

    Jules
    You carry the tiger above your head, (gesturing) like so, and you say —you roar—"The tiger and the buffalo shall lay down together."

    Jones
    Oh, my God.

    Jules
    Where I going to find one priest like that?

    Jones
    What happened to the money?

    Jules (coolly)
    Oh, that. You lost most of that gambling.

    Jones
    Gambling—

    Jules
    Don't you remember? At Miguel's—

    Jones
    But Jools, the money's none o' mine. It belonged to Smyrny Church.

    Jules
    Anyway, Lazt evening, when they lock you up, I go to Monsieur le Blanc, he is the judge, to get you out of the calabooze. So soon I was entering, he say, "Ah, Jules, me boy, juzt the man to make complete the game of poker." Posson Jone, it was a specious providence. In tree hours I win more than six hundred dollah. Look. (showing money) And, I didn't have to cheat.

    Jones
    Jools, my friend, your kindness is in vain.

    Jules (amazed)
    Mais, why?

    Jones
    Because I can't accept the money. It don't become a Christian (which I hope I can still say I am one) to do evil that good may come.

    Jules
    Mr. Posson Jone, hold on. You see dis money—what I win last night— Well, I win it by a specious providence, ain't it?

    Jones
    There's no tellin. God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform.

    Jules
    Ah, c'est very true. I get dis money in the myzterieuze way. Mais, if I keep dis money, you know where it goin to be tonight?

    Jones
    I really can't say.

    Jules (sweetly)
    Goin to the devil.

    Jones
    Oh, Jools.

    Jules
    Well, den, what I shall do wid it?

    Jones
    Anything! Better donate it to some poor man.

    Jules
    Ah, Misty Posson Jone, dat is what I want. You lose five hundred dollar—was my fault.

    Jones
    No, it wasn't, Jools.

    Jules
    Mais, it was.

    Jones
    No.

    Jules
    It was me fault! I swear, it was me fault. Mais, here is five hundred dollar. I wish you shall take it.

    (Jones begins to weep.)

    Jones
    Oh, Jools, Jools, Jools. My noble friend.

    Jules
    Oh, my faith. Posson Jone, you muzt not begin to cry some more.

    Jones
    My dear, misguided friend; ef you hed of hed a Christian raisin! May the Lord show you your errors better'n I kin. And God bless you for your good intentions. (starting suddenly) Jools, Jools, where's my pore old niggah?

    Jules
    Posson Jones, never mind; he is wid Baptiste.

    Jones
    Where?

    Jules
    I don't know where—mais, he is wid Baptiste. Baptiste is a beautiful to take care of somebody.

    Jones
    I never will believe he taken the money.

    Jules
    Posson Jone. You take this money.

    Jones
    Can't, it's agin my conscience.

    Jules (defeated)
    Posson Jone! Make me anyhow this promise; you never, never will come back to New Orleans.

    Jones
    Lord willin, I never will leave home again.

    Jules
    You got to go soon.

    Jones
    But, I got to find Colossus first.

    Jules
    Mais, Posson Jone. De judge's order—you cannot read it, it is in French, compel you to leave New Orleans by nightfall. I made him put it there myself.

    Jones
    Oh, Jools, supposin Colossus don't get home? Oh, Jools, if you'll look him out for me—I'll never forget you nohow Jools.

    Jules
    I will, I will. Adieu, Posson Jones. My faith, you are the so fighting an mozt religious man as I never saw. Adieu. Adieu.

    (They pay and go out.)

    End Scene I.

    Scene II.

    Later that day. The Square before the Cafe. Tite Poulette and Madame Zalli enter from their house. As is their custom, they stop by the fountain.

    Zalli
    Cherie, why do you dream so much?

    Poulette
    I was thinking of Pere Jerome's sermon. (pause, worried) Do you think, maman, that Pere Jerome knows that I was the girl on the "Spanish Lady"—who—?

    Zalli
    No, I am sure he does not.

    Poulette
    Do you think Pere Jerome knows him?

    Zalli
    Yes, I do. He said so in his sermon.

    Poulette
    I wish I was Pere— I wish I was as good as Pere Jerome.

    Zalli
    My child, my child—don't give your heart to a pirate.

    Poulette
    I will not—I will not!

    Zalli
    It would be useless anyhow.

    Poulette
    I know, I know.

    (There is a pause.)

    Zalli
    Tite Poulette, I want you to promise me one thing.

    Poulette
    Well, maman?

    Zalli
    If any gentleman should ever love you and ask you to marry—promise me you will not tell him you are not white.

    Poulette
    It will never happen.

    Zalli
    But, if it should?

    Poulette
    But, to marry like that is against the law.

    Zalli
    The law is unjust

    Poulette
    I would surely tell him.

    (Zalli looks off; she is upset. In the distance she spies Monsieur de la Rue, manager of the Conde, her boss.)

    Zalli
    Oh dear, oh dear. Monsieur de la Rue is coming.

    Poulette
    Your employer at the Salle de Conde?

    Zalli
    Yes. I cannot avoid speaking to him. Go home quickly, Tite Poulette. The man is a roue, not fit for your company.

    (Tite Poulette starts off, obeying her mother. Monsieur de la Rue enters.)

    M. de la Rue
    Madame Zalli.

    (Zalli curtsies politely.)

    M. de la Rue
    Madame Zalli, that young lady—is she your daughter?

    Zalli
    She—she is my daughter.

    M. de la Rue
    I think not, Madame Zalli.

    Zalli
    Yes, monsieur, she is my daughter.

    M. de la Rue
    Only make believe, I think.

    Zalli
    I swear she is, Monsieur de la Rue.

    M. de la Rue
    Is that possible? But, how? Why does she not come to our ballroom with you?

    Zalli (uneasily)
    Each of his own tastes, Sieur de la Rue. It does not please her.

    M. de la Rue
    I shall come to see you, Madame Zalli.

    Zalli
    Monsieur must not give himself the trouble.

    M. de la Rue
    It will be my pleasure. (he bows and leaves)

    (Zalli is perturbed. A new and totally unexpected threat has presented itself. Sieur de la Rue means to have Tite Poulette, and Zalli has no idea how to stop him. She is lost in thought when Monsieur de Vignevielle approaches from the Cafe. He bows to Zalli, who curtsies in return.)

    Vignevielle
    Good afternoon, Madame Zalli.

    Zalli
    Ah, Miche Vignevielle, I thank God to meet you.

    Vignevielle
    Is that so, Madame Zalli? Why is that?

    Zalli
    I've been talking to Pere Jerome—he suggested that if—

    Vignevielle
    If—?

    Zalli
    If it arrive to me to die—

    Vignevielle
    Yes?

    Zalli
    I want you to take care of my little girl.

    Vignevielle
    I will do that—like my own—

    Zalli
    You are so kind— Oh, if she weren't so unhappy—

    Vignevielle
    Why is she unhappy?

    Zalli
    She won't tell me, Miche.

    Vignevielle
    What do you think?

    Zalli
    Miche, I think she is lonesome.

    Vignevielle
    In that case, Madame Zalli, I don't think it right for me to be her guardian. It would be a miztake.

    Zalli
    Ah,—non—Miche.

    Vignevielle
    There is only one that can be.

    Zalli
    Who, Miche?

    Vignevielle
    God.

    Zalli
    Ah, Miche.

    Vignevielle
    I'm not going to desert you, Madame Zalli.

    (Zalli is puzzled.)

    Vignevielle
    You don't know what I mean.

    Zalli
    Not exactly.

    Vignevielle
    I mean your daughter's guardian must find her a husband, and only God can do that. But, Madame, I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll find a husband for your daughter—a white man. You can trust me—

    Zalli
    You will come to my house yourself?

    Vignevielle
    If you like.

    Zalli
    Miche, I think Pere Jerome might be able to tell you somebody.

    (They go out towards her house.)

    End of Scene II.

    Scene III.

    The same day. The General is seated with Jean and the Colonel, drinking his favorite drink.

    Jean
    General, you must read this. You are called "antiquated." We who nominated you are called "fossils." Our whole caucus is "irresponsible!"

    General The devil! Let me see. (reading) I cannot read this trash. Colonel, you read it.

    Colonel (reading)
    "The Crayfish Eater's Ticket. It is not long since the fossils who represent the old ways nominated the antiquated General Hercule Mossy de Villivicencio for Governor. It is true that the old soldier performed good service in the last war (and while we are not prone to attack his record, which is honorable, we are not prohibited from saying that his victories proceeded more from luck and pluck than from any strategic grasp of the situation). Despite his service, which the old gentleman never ceases to preen himself on, we feel justified in criticizing his attachment to the most reactionary elements in our community—elements which we believe regret that the Louisiana Purchase was ever made. This irresponsible group of crayfish eaters undoubtedly think that the election of General Villivicencio is the first step leading to secession and reunion with France. However,——"

    General Villivicencio (savagely)
    Stop. That is enough.

    Colonel
    The author must answer for it.

    General Villivicencio (savagely twirling his mustaches)
    I forbid you to fight him. You shall not fight him.

    Colonel
    But, one of us must fight. You cannot. If you fight, the cause is lost. The candidate must not fight.

    Jean
    He is right.

    General Villivicencio
    You are right. Thank God, I have a son. My son shall call the villain out and make him pay for his impudence with his blood.

    (The General rises.)

    General Villivicencio
    Decidedly, Victorien must do it.

    (The two friends nod in agreement.)

    End of Scene III.

    Scene IV.

    At the door of Zalli's home, later that day. It is small, but well kept up. Tite Poulette greets Zalli at the door, Zalli is hugging Tite Poulette.

    Zalli
    Ah, my little fatherless one—kiss—kiss—kiss.

    Poulette
    Is it good news you have, or bad?

    Zalli
    God knows my darling, I cannot tell.

    Poulette
    Why do you cry?

    Zalli
    For nothing at all, my darling—for nothing— I am such a fool.— It's just that Miche Vignevielle is the best man on the good Lord's earth—

    Poulette
    There is something else, and you shall tell me.

    Zalli
    Yes.— We must go in and clean the parlor, even though no one is coming to see us, eh?

    Poulette
    Who is coming here this evening?

    Zalli
    Oh, nobody—nobody at all. It's just time for a little overdue spring cleaning.

    Poulette
    Tell me who is coming.

    Zalli
    Our blessed friend, Miche Vignevielle.

    Poulette
    To see me?

    Zalli
    Yes.

    Poulette (unnerved)
    What have you done?

    Zalli
    Why, child, do you forget that it is Miche Vignevielle who has promised to protect you when I die?

    Poulette
    How is it possible? First of all, you are young, and in good health, and not going to die. Secondly, this Miche Vignevielle has only recently come to New Orleans, and you have only known him for one day.

    Zalli
    Ah, cherie, it is there that he shows himself the best man alive. He is so kind.

    Poulette
    Besides, how can he protect me? He is a white man, and I am a poor—

    Zalli (happily)
    He proposes to meet that difficulty. He says he will find you a husband.

    Poulette (sobbing violently)
    I shall never marry. Who would want me?

    Zalli
    Oh, my sweet daughter, you must not cry! I did not want to tell you. Don't cry— Miche says you shall have the one you wish, or none at all.

    Poulette (hysterically)
    None at all! None at all! None at all!

    (Enter Monsieur Vignevielle, he bows.)

    Vignevielle
    Hem!

    Zalli (thunderstruck)
    Miche— (she curtsies)

    Poulette (faint)
    Maman?

    Zalli
    I am here, my daughter. (overwhelmed) It is Miche Vignevielle, my daughter.

    Poulette
    No, maman. It is Captaine le Maitre.

    (Vignevielle bows again. Poulette regards him as if in a trance.)

    End of Scene IV.

    Scene V.

    The Square before the Cafe des Exiles. Later that night. The Colonel crosses the Square and goes to Indian Charlie's house.

    Colonel
    Charlie—open up.

    Charlie (opening the door)
    Ello. From what you come dis time of tonight?

    Colonel
    Never mind that. Charlie, what you say, Charlie?— My house for yours, eh Charlie? What you say?

    Charlie (astonished)
    You come to trade?

    Colonel
    Yes. (pause) Well, old man Charlie, what you say: my house for yours— like you said—eh Charlie?

    Charlie
    I dunno. Why don't you stay dere yourself?

    Colonel
    Because, I don't want! Is dat reason enough for you? You better take me in de notion—old man—I tell you, yes.

    Charlie
    I don't care, I take him.

    Colonel
    Not the whole plantation—only the house.

    Charlie
    I don't care. We easy fix dat. Mais, what for you don't want to keep him? I don't want him. You better keep him.

    Colonel (irritated)
    Don't you try to make a fool of me, old man.

    Charlie
    Oh, no. Oh, no! But, you make a fool of yourself, ain't it? Belles Demoiselles is more wort than three blocks like dis one. (gesturing) Yes, the Comte de Charleu have two family. One was lowdown Choctaw, one was high up noblesse. He gave the lowdown Choctaw this rat-hole. (pause) What I'll do wid Belles Demoiselles? She'll break me in two years, yes. And, what you'll do wid old Charlie's house. Tear her down and make yourself a blame old fool. I rather wouldn't trade.

    Colonel
    Charlie.

    Charlie
    I rather wouldn't, mais, I will do it for you. Just the same like Monsieur le Comte would say, Charlie, you old fool, I want to change house wid you.

    Colonel
    Come. Come at my house tonight. Tomorrow we'll take a look at the place before breakfast and finish the trade.

    Charlie
    Well, anyhow— I don't care— I'll go.

    (They continue to talk, as the Curtain falls.)

    End of Scene V.

    CURTAIN

    ACT III.

    Scene I.

    Midday, a few days later, in the Cafe des Exiles. Vignevielle is seated in the Cafe, watching Madame Zalli's residence. He sits with Mossy, who is occupying himself with writing. D'Hemencourt and Pauline are talking.

    Pauline
    We do not know that he refuses to come. We only know that Manuel says so.

    D'Hemencourt
    When has he ever stayed away so long? No, my child, it is intentional. Manuel urges him to come, but he only sends excuses.

    Pauline
    But, why have you not sent word to him, by some other person?

    D'Hemencourt
    It is not fitting that I should send to him—

    (Zalli and Tite Poulette enter from their house and pause near the fountain.)

    Poulette
    Did you go to Sieur de la Rue's office, maman?

    Zalli
    I could not.

    Poulette
    Maman, he has seen me at the window.

    Zalli
    While I was gone?

    Poulette
    He passed on the other side of the street. He looked up purposely and saw me.

    Zalli (wringing her hands)
    How shall we escape him?

    Poulette
    It is nothing, mother, do not go near him.

    Zalli
    But the pay—my child.

    Poulette
    The pay matters not.

    Zalli
    But, he will bring it to the house; he wants the excuse. Lord, he's coming, now—hurry.

    (They rush back to their house and go in as Sieur de la Rue enters. He knocks, but there is no answer. Vignevielle has observed this and comes up.)

    Vignevielle
    They are not at home.

    M. de la Rue (continuing to rap)
    I saw them.

    Vignevielle
    Perhaps, they are not at home to you.

    M. de la Rue
    Are you staring at me, sir?

    Vignevielle (icily)
    Are you not making a mistake, sir?

    M. de la Rue
    Kindly mind your own business.

    Vignevielle
    You had better leave.

    M. de la Rue
    And if I choose not?

    Vignevielle (smoothly)
    I shall make you.

    M. de la Rue
    You dare?

    (Vignevielle knocks him down. M. de la Rue rises slowly and adjusts his hat. Mossy has come up.)

    M. de la Rue
    There shall be a time, sir. (he exits)

    Mossy
    That wasn't such a good idea. He is Madame Zalli's boss. Undoubtedly, he will discharge her.

    Vignevielle (shrugging)
    I don't care for her to work there anyway. (he knocks and is admitted)

    (Mossy returns to his seat in the Cafe. Lawyer Jean enters and goes to Mossy.)

    Jean
    The druggist says the boys are going to shivaree Old Poquelin. I'm going to try to stop it.

    Mossy
    You'd better not. You might get hurt.

    Jean
    I'm going to sit here until they come by.

    Mossy
    You're welcome.

    Jean
    On second thought, there's something I must do first. (he exits)

    (Mossy returns to his writing. The General enters.)

    General Villivicencio
    Well, my son, have you seen yesterday's newspaper? No, I see you have not, since your cheeks are not red with shame and anger.

    Mossy
    What has happened, Papa?

    General Villivicencio
    My faith, Mossy, is it possible you have not heard of the attack on me which has surprised and exasperated the city?

    Mossy
    I guess not.

    General Villivicencio
    My soul. But Mossy, my son, there it is—there! There! There! Read it! Calls me not responsible. Practically suggests I am a traitor—.

    Mossy (after reading)
    But Papa, I have read this. If this is it, I am already preparing to respond to it.

    (The General embraces his son and kisses him on both cheeks.)

    General Villivicencio
    I knew I had a son. Read me what you have written, my son.

    Mossy (reading)
    "Messers Editors, in your journal of yesterday, there was published an editorial reflecting on General Hercule Mossy de Villivicencio, a national hero, in the most scurrilous manner. Numerous errors of fact were made and preposterous opinions ventured. We request you to retract the editorial and apologize—"

    General Villivicencio
    Apologize? I will not accept an apology. Do not accept an apology, Victorien. You must demand the name of the scoundrel and chastise the wretch on the field of honor—

    Mossy
    You want me to fight?

    General Villivicencio
    What else is there to do? Exchange love notes in the newspapers? I believe you do not want to fight.

    Mossy
    Not over this.

    General Villivicencio (heartbroken)
    If not over this, what? My God.

    Mossy
    This sort of thing goes on all the time. I warned you, Papa, that you would be exposed to this sort of thing. I'm afraid—

    General Villivicencio (dejected but ironic)
    I see that.

    Mossy (hotly)
    That's not what I mean. But you know how I feel about dueling.

    General Villivicencio (majestic)
    It is well. I was wrong. It is my quarrel. I shall settle it myself.

    Mossy (blocking him)
    No, Papa!

    General Villivicencio
    What else is there to do?

    Mossy
    Papa, I cannot permit you to expose yourself in this way. For years we have been estranged. You must not leave me so. (decisively) I will settle this quarrel for you.

    General Villivicencio (brightening, for he knows but one way to settle a quarrel)
    I would myself do it. But a candidate cannot. Silly custom. My friends forbid it.

    Mossy
    So do I.

    General Villivicencio
    My son— I do not wish to compel you.

    Mossy
    It is a small service. You must wait here for my return.

    General Villivicencio
    But, I have an appointment at Maspero's.

    Mossy
    I will call and make an excuse for you. Now, I must go and find which member of their talented editorial staff wrote this trash.

    General Villivicencio
    What if your patients are looking for you?

    Mossy
    Send them to Dr. Prevost, if it's an emergency. Otherwise, tell them to call me at my office tomorrow.

    General V. Bien. (he seats himself and reads a paper)

    (Mossy goes out, decisively.)

    (Enter Major Shaughnessy. He goes directly to D'Hemencourt.)

    Shaughnessy
    Good evening, Monsieur D'Hemencourt. I want to have a private word with you.

    D'Hemencourt
    Mazaro told you?

    Shaughnessy
    Yes.

    D'Hemencourt
    Major, if Mazaro told you, why didn't you come sooner?

    Shaughnessy
    Didn't Manuel tell you why I didn't come?

    D'Hemencourt
    Yes, but one brave gentleman should not be afraid of—

    Shaughnessy
    Monsieur D'Hemencourt, I'm not afraid of any two men living, and certainly not the two that've been watching me, if they're the two I think they are.

    D'Hemencourt
    But, sir . . .

    Shaughnessy
    What's the use of confronting two cutthroats when—?

    D'Hemencourt
    Major Shaughnessy, I am not a cutthroat, and I have a right to watch you.

    Shaughnessy
    What do you mean? One of us is crazy.

    D'Hemencourt
    No, sir. I am not crazy. I have a right to watch the man who made a remark about my daughter.

    Shaughnessy (hotly)
    I did not such thing!

    D'Hemencourt (with equal fire)
    You did!

    Shaughnessy
    Never.

    D'Hemencourt
    But, you have just acknowledged—

    Shaughnessy
    The man that told you is a liar!

    D'Hemencourt (triumphant)
    Ah, you call Manuel Mazaro a liar?

    Shaughnessy
    Well, I should say so. Why, Monsieur D'Hemencourt, Mazaro's been keeping me away from here with a yarn about a couple of Spaniards from Cuba watching for me. That's what I came to ask you about. Do you suppose I would talk about your daughter to the likes of Mazaro?

    End of Scene I.

    Scene II.

    The Cafe des Exiles, early evening. Major Shaughnessy and D'Hemencourt are awaiting the return of Manuel Mazaro. Jean is still waiting for the shivaree. Charlie and the Colonel are seated, still discussing the proposed trade.

    Colonel
    Old Charlie, you and me is both old, eh?

    Charlie
    Yes.

    Colonel
    And, we has both been had enough in our time, eh Charlie?

    Charlie (sipping his drink)
    Yass.

    Colonel
    You and me is pretty close.

    Charlie
    Blame close, yes.

    Colonel
    But, you never know me to cheat, old man?

    Charlie
    No.

    Colonel
    And, do you think I would cheat you now?

    Charlie
    I dunno. I don't believe.

    Colonel
    Well, old man—I shan't cheat you now. My God,—you better not make the trade.

    Charlie
    Because for what?

    Colonel
    Because the levee's burst.

    (Charlie makes signs of disbelief.)

    Colonel
    It's true, it's true, Charlie. When you first wanted to trade—I kind of laughed. But when I went back home last night, I saw the levee was bursting and decided I'd better make that trade after all. I've got no insurance, Charlie.

    (The mob enters, and prominent among its leaders is Jules St Ange. Jean rises quickly and signals to St Ange. The mob more or less quiets down to see what's going on.)

    Jean
    Stop those fellows, Jules. Stop them just a minute.

    (St Ange gives a signal and the mob quiets.)

    Jean
    Don't shivaree old Poquelin tonight.

    Jules (drunk)
    Who tell you I'm going to shivaree somebody, eh? You think because I make a little playful wiz this tin pan zat I am drunk?

    Jean
    Oh, no. I was just afraid you might not know old Poquelin is sick.

    Jules
    I am very sorry to tell you, you are drunk as the devil. I am ze servan of ze publique. Zese citoyens goin to request Jean Poquelin give two hundred fifty dollars to charity. If he refuse, we make some little musique, ta, ra, ta.

    Jean
    But, gentlemen, the old man is very sick.

    Jules
    Old Poquelin got no bizniz drink so much whiskey.

    Jean
    It is not right to do it to a sick man.

    Jules
    My faith, we did not make him to be sick. When we have say we going to make le shivaree, do you want we have tell a lie?

    Jean
    Oh, no. You can shivaree someone else.

    Jules
    Mais, certainlee. We can shivaree Jean ah Poquelin tomorrow.

    Voice in the crowd Let us go to Madame Schneider's Bordello. The old witch. Cent pesetas pour le charite. Hurrah!

    (The crowd goes noisily off. Jean resumes his seat. Zalli enters with Pere Jerome.)

    Zalli
    I just had to find you, Pere Jerome. I had to talk to you. (pause) Pere Jerome.

    Jerome Why, Madame Zalli?

    Zalli
    Oh, Pere Jerome, I wan see you so bad, so bad!

    Jerome Perhaps we had better sit apart.

    Zalli
    I was glad to catch you. (pause) (fanning herself) F'e chaud.

    Jerome Well, Madame Zalli?

    Zalli
    Pere Jerome.

    Jerome Well?

    Zalli
    Oh, Pere Jerome, the law is broken. I broke it. Me! Me!

    Jerome I suppose that must have been by accident, Madame Zalli? That's the way it is, isn't it?

    Zalli
    No, no. I betrothed my little girl to a white man.

    Jerome Is that possible, Madame Zalli?

    Zalli
    Yes, yes, it's true.

    Jerome Is he a good man—without doubt?

    Zalli
    The best man in the world.

    Jerome My poor, dear friend, I am afraid you are being deceived by somebody.

    Zalli
    Ah, not Miche. Not by Captain le Maitre.

    Jerome (after a long pause)
    He is a good man, surely, though he has much to atone for— Still, are you sure he is prepared—

    Zalli
    Has he not braved other rules—?

    Jerome A priest is not a judge or a lawyer. How can I help you?

    Zalli
    Why did they make that law?— What right had they—?

    Jerome To keep the races separate—if that be a right—.

    Zalli
    Then, they made a lie, Pere Jerome. Separate, no.— We are not separate. But they do want to keep us despised. No, I will tell you what the law is made for. It is made to punish my child— My God, what a law! I came to tell you they shall not punish my daughter. She shall marry who she wants!

    Jerome Madame, Zalli, I want you to go home. Don't make yourself upset. I will go to see Captain le Maitre, who is, by the way, an old friend of mine. We will fix that law for you.

    Zalli
    You can fix it?

    Jerome We can try, Madame Zalli.

    Zalli (kissing him)
    You are the best man God ever made!

    Jerome (embarrassed)
    Well, well, Madame Zalli, I will only do my best. I must go now—

    (Pere Jerome is about to leave. Zalli looks about nervously.)

    Zalli
    I think Sieur de la Rue has followed me—

    Jerome I see no one.

    Zalli
    I am over excited.

    Jerome I really must go.

    (Pere Jerome exits. Zalli hesitates, looks about, then starts towards her house. Vignevielle enters and bows to her.)

    Zalli
    Miche Vignevielle! Ah, Monsieur, you will be killed if you stay here. I am sure Sieur de la Rue is following me.

    Vignevielle
    Madame Zalli, I wish you not to dance.

    Zalli
    I have danced already. I am going home. Come, be quick, we will go together.— Ah—it is he, Sieur de la Rue.

    Vignevielle
    I am not afraid.

    (Sieur de la Rue appears from the shadows accompanied by two ruffians.)

    Zalli
    Are you armed? Here take this. (she withdraws a dagger and gives it to him, he brushes her aside)

    M. de la Rue (raising his cane to strike)
    That for yesterday.

    (Vignevielle easily wards off the blow and knocks him down.)

    Ruffian (striking Vignevielle with a club)
    That for Tite Poulette.

    (La Rue and his ruffians surround Vignevielle and are doing pretty well kicking and clubbing until Vignevielle gets angry and pulls the sword from his sword cane, which he wields expertly, too expertly for a gentleman.)

    Vignevielle (uttering a pirate's oath)
    Sblood! I shall cut your ears off and make you eat them—

    M. de la Rue
    It's Captain le Maitre. He will kill us. Call the watch.

    Vignevielle
    Run—you had best. But, unless you want your throat cut, sir, and that of all your family—you had best say nothing—.

    M. de la Rue
    Run! I shall be silent. My God, what an escape. A pirate—

    (La Rue and his ruffians run off, terrified.)

    Vignevielle
    Sometimes, it's a good idea to have the heart of a pirate.

    Zalli
    You are wounded, sir.

    Vignevielle
    Merely a scratch.

    Zalli
    Come to my house. I will fetch Dr. Mossy.

    (They exit into her house. The excitement dies down in the Cafe. Shaughnessy had come to interfere, but Vignevielle had settled matters for himself. D'Hemencourt and Shaughnessy resume their watch for Mazaro.)

    D'Hemencourt
    He is coming— Don't let him catch you.

    Shaughnessy
    The little yellow wretch. I'm going to catch him.

    D'Hemencourt
    No, no. Not in the Cafe des Exiles. Not now, Major. Go in that door if you please. You can listen to what he has to say.

    Shaughnessy
    I can't go in that door. That's your daughter's room.

    D'Hemencourt
    Oui, oui, mais.

    Shaughnessy
    I'll just slip in here.

    (The Major goes in another door. Mazaro enters.)

    Mazaro
    You've got a heap of trouble, senor. (silence) There was a big crowd in the Cafe Anglais. . . .

    D'Hemencourt
    But where is Major Shaughnessy?

    Mazaro
    Major Shaughnessy? Yes, he was there; but he wouldn't come to see you senor.

    D'Hemencourt
    No?

    Mazaro
    Oh, no, senor. It's very bad for your daughter, eh?

    D'Hemencourt
    What?

    Mazaro
    They're talking about her. This coffee house is not a good place for her, eh? (pause) But, you cannot help, eh? I know about her getting married.

    (D'Hemencourt rises with a gesture of dismissing a distasteful subject.)

    Mazaro
    Senor, if I was a man who loved your daughter, all is possible to love, eh? You should let me marry her and take her away from this place, senor.

    D'Hemencourt
    Manuel Mazaro, you have said enough.

    Mazaro
    No, no, senor; no, no. I want to tell you there is one man who loves your daughter, and I know him.

    D'Hemencourt
    Major Shaughnessy.

    Mazaro
    The Major. Oh, no, not the Major. The Major never loved your daughter. Ah, senor, if it was possible that your daughter loved him, it would be the worst kind in the world, but senor, I—

    D'Hemencourt
    Manuel Mazaro, you have—

    Mazaro
    Senor, I am about to reveal to you—

    D'Hemencourt
    Manuel Mazaro!

    Mazaro
    Senor, excuse me.

    D'Hemencourt
    Silence! You have deceived me. You have mocked me. You—

    Mazaro
    Senor, I swear to you that all that I say—

    (Pauline and the Major step from behind the door.)

    Major and Pauline A LIE!

    (Mazaro is speechless.)

    Shaughnessy
    Just finish your speech.

    Mazaro (confused)
    Was nothing—

    Shaughnessy
    You're a liar.

    Mazaro
    No, I was only telling D'Hemencourt something true.

    Shaughnessy
    And, I tell you, you're a liar. Be so kind as to get yourself to the street as I am desirous of kicking you before everyone.

    D'Hemencourt
    Major—no scandal.

    Shaughnessy (imperiously)
    Go!

    (Mazaro runs off.)

    Shaughnessy
    Be so kind as to say "Here's a good wife for you" and I'll let the little serpent go.

    End of Scene II.

    Scene III.

    Before the Cafe, later that night.

    (The crowd returns, obviously in flight.)

    Voice
    Ghosts

    Voice
    I ain't never been so scared in my life.

    Jules
    Posson Jone, where are you when I need you? I scared, me.

    (Jules runes off. Parson Jones enters from the direction in which the crowd has entered.)

    Jones
    Hats off, gentlemen. Here come the last remains of Jean Marie Poquelin. I say it was a special Providence that I went by this poor sinner's house on my way back to Smyrny. Thus did I discover this heroic man on his death bed; a man who for twenty years had exposed himself to contagion and leprosy (a shudder passes through the crowd) to shelter his brother.— He died a repentant sinner in my arms. An old slaver; a misanthrope, yet he believed in a Holy Saviour.

    (A casket passes on the shoulders of four men; behind the casket—the eerie figure of the leper, Jacques Poquelin.)

    Voice
    They are going to the Terre aux Lepreux—

    Voice
    His brother, Jacques, a leper all these years.

    (The crowd and Parson Jones go out.)

    (General Villivicencio has watched these proceedings from his post in the Cafe. He, though struck by the scene, is preoccupied with his own worries. He drums the table. Finally, he rises and paces. Madame Delicieuse enters.)

    General Villivicencio
    What is the matter, Clarisse?

    Madame Delicieuse
    I am looking for my physician—your son.

    General Villivicencio (uneasily)
    He is not here. (he looks at his watch with growing impatience)

    Madame Delicieuse
    Will he be back soon?

    General Villivicencio
    He should have been back some time ago. I've been all over looking for him.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Where did he go?

    General Villivicencio
    A small matter— (wincing)

    Madame Delicieuse
    Your son took your quarrel on his hands, eh?

    General Villivicencio
    Like a good son. (edgy)

    Madame Delicieuse
    I left him an hour ago in search of your slanderer.

    General Villivicencio
    He must find him.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Perhaps, he has.

    General Villivicencio
    Clarisse, this is not like you. Where is my son? What has happened? If you know something, speak!

    Madame Delicieuse
    You can do nothing now. Suppose you should rush out and find your son had not fought with this scribbler?

    General Villivicencio (very excited)
    My son is no coward!

    Madame Delicieuse
    I want to ask you something. Please answer candidly.

    General Villivicencio
    Very well.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Did you not force this quarrel on your son to test his courage—?

    General Villivicencio
    Not his courage—his love.

    Madame Delicieuse
    And, if he ahs proved it?

    General Villivicencio
    Then, he is my son.

    Madame Delicieuse
    And your heir?

    General Villivicencio
    Certainly.

    Madame Delicieuse (savagely)
    It will make him a magnificent funeral.

    (The General is overwhelmed.)

    (The Colonel and Charlie enter the Cafe and take seats.)

    Madame Delicieuse
    Your son has met the writer of that article.

    General Villivicencio
    Where?

    Madame Delicieuse
    Suddenly, unexpectedly—in a passageway.

    General Villivicencio
    My God, and the villain—?

    Madame Delicieuse
    —lives!

    General Villivicencio
    Let me go, Clarisse.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I wrote the article. Your son is hunting for me now.

    General Villivicencio
    You!

    Madame Delicieuse
    Me!

    General Villivicencio
    But, why? How could you say such things? You know they are not true!

    Madame Delicieuse
    That made saying it all the more piquant, Hercule.

    General Villivicencio
    I still don't understand why.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Well, I had to pay you back for pestering me so,—not making up with Victorien.

    General Villivicencio (amused)
    What a mischief maker.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I had it all worked out (pointing to her head) up here. No one, absolutely no one, and particularly not you, dear Hercule, can arrange matters better than I can. Remember that—after we're married.

    General Villivicencio (delighted)
    I will, my dear, I will.

    Madame Delicieuse
    Now, you may escort me home, Hercule. I have to prepare a retraction and apology for tomorrow's newspaper. Altogether, I think your cause will benefit from this scurrilous and unprovoked attack. Even Yankees hate to see a national hero treated so unfairly. I foresaw that, too.

    General Villivicencio (involuntarily impressed)
    Indeed.

    Madame Delicieuse
    I plan on being married in the Governor's mansion.

    (The General bows magnificently to her, as only he can, and offers her his arm. Exit the future Governor and First Lady of Louisiana.)

    (A messenger enters and goes up to Colonel Charleu.)

    Messenger Colonel Charleu?

    Colonel
    Yes?

    Messenger Sir,—ah— (hesitating)

    Colonel
    Speak out, man. What's wrong with you? You look like somebody just died.

    Messenger Colonel—Belles Demoiselles Plantation, sir—

    Colonel
    Flooding. I expected it.

    Messenger The house, sir, it fell into the river.

    Colonel
    Ahh! My daughters escaped injury?

    Messenger They sank with the house into the mud. There is no question, they are dead.

    Colonel
    My daughters. My Belles Demoiselles—all gone?

    Messenger All.

    Charlie (reaching out to embrace him)
    Come, stay with me. It shall be your house now. Come, my old friend.

    (Charlie leads off the Colonel. Injin Charlie seems to have sobered up. This call of the blood has brought out the best in him—whether this be Indian or French blood, who can say? As Charlie and the Colonel exit, Manuel Mazaro enters. There are several rough looking characters seated at a table with the Major. Mazaro looks inquisitively at one of them, a Mexican. The Mexican looks to the Major who indicates Mazaro can stay.)

    Mexican
    You may take your place without fear, Manuel.

    (Mazaro nervously sits down.)

    Shaughnessy
    Gentlemen, this may be the last time we meet together in unbroken body. Who knows but that Senor Benito, though hale and strong, may be taken ill tomorrow? Who knows but that Pedro there may be struck with a fever? Who knows but that they may soon need the services of the good Dr. Mossy, and of our burial society, and that Fernandez, and Beningo, and Dominguez may not be chosen to see on that very schooner lying at Picayune pier just now, their beloved remains delivered safely into the hands of their relatives in Cuba? Who knows but it may be so? If such is to be their fate, amigos, I will say to them, Creoles, country men, lovers— Bon voyage and good luck to ye.

    (All at the table say "Bueno" and drink a toast.)

    Shaughnessy
    And now, gentlemen, fellow exiles, Monsieur D'Hemencourt, it was your practice until lately to reward a good talker with a glass from the hands of your daughter.

    (All at the table cry "Si, si.")

    Shaughnessy
    However, I'll ask you, not knowing but it may be the last time we all meet together if you will not let the goddess of the Cafe des Exiles grace our company for one last minute. (Pauline comes forward) You see, friends, her position has been growing more and more embarrassing daily. Therefore, I have taken steps to relieve the old gentleman's distress. (he gestures towards Pauline) Friends and fellow patriots. Mistress Shaughnessy. Lads, fill your glasses. Here's to my wife and the Cafe des Exiles.

    (An Army Officer enters.)

    Officer
    Major, I am sorry to disturb you, but I have information you plan to invade Cuba and have weapons stored in this Cafe. I am sorry but I must search the premises.

    Shaughnessy
    You are mistaken.

    Officer
    The Cafe is surrounded.

    Shaughnessy
    This is a simple business meeting. We are a burial society and we also speculate in real estate.

    Officer
    I hope that is the case. Monsieur D'Hemencourt, you will show me over the premises.

    D'Hemencourt
    Of course, we have only some coffins for the burial society.

    (D'Hemencourt and the Officer go inside.)

    Mexican
    Someone has denounced us.

    Mazaro
    Who would do that?

    Mexican (looking at him coldly)
    Who, indeed?

    (The Officer returns with D'Hemencourt.)

    Officer (amused)
    I've heard of some strange heathen burial customs, but I never yet heard of storing rifles in coffins.

    (The Mexican quietly plunges his dagger into Manuel Mazaro's ribs. So deft is he, that Mazaro only utters a little grunt. The Officer is totally unaware of what has happened.)

    Officer
    I have to confiscate the rifles. However, no other action will be taken against you—.

    (The Officer leaves. Mazaro slumps in his chair.)

    Shaughnessy
    You fool, Pedro. You shouldn't have done that here. Get him out of her, quick—

    (The Mexican and another man carry Manuel out as if he were drunk. Pauline shudders and draws near to Shaughnessy, who holds her protectively. Officers enter and begin to remove the rifles.)

    End of Scene III.

    Scene IV.

    Morning, before the Cafe. Zalli enters, pursued by Tite Poulette.

    Poulette
    Maman, please—stop this. Say you are my mother.

    Zalli (tearful)
    No, child. I am not your mother. I have deceived you all these years. Your mother was white. You are white and I am black. You are free to marry whom you choose.

    Poulette
    It's not true.

    Zalli
    I have sworn it before Monsieur Jean, the lawyer, and Pere Jerome.

    Poulette
    Maman, how can you do this?

    Zalli
    I love you, child, but you must stop referring to me as your mother.

    Poulette
    You're only doing this so I can marry him.

    (Vignevielle and Pere Jerome enter together.)

    Zalli
    Ah, Pere Jerome, finally you have come—

    Poulette
    Make her stop, Pere Jerome.

    Pere Jerome (uneasily)
    Your mother—er, Madame Zalli, has sworn the most solemn oath that you are not her daughter.

    Poulette
    Only so I can marry Miche Vignevielle.

    Jerome I should not wish to accuse Madame Zalli of taking a false oath, if I were in your position. If you are her daughter, it is most undaughterly, if not, it isn't very nice.

    Poulette
    I will not marry if I have to give up my mother.

    Vignevielle
    May I have the papers. (Jerome gives them to him, and he looks at them) Undoubtedly, they would be accepted in a court of law. (he tears them up)

    Zalli
    Miche Vignevielle, what have you done?

    Vignevielle
    Madame Zalli, I need no such papers. For some men, perhaps, they would be essential. For me, they are unnecessary. I am Captain Ursin le Maitre. For fifteen years, I have defied all man's laws, laws which I admit in theory to be just. Am I now to be thwarted in my will by a law which I do not conceive even for one moment to be just? Judge for yourself. My wife need not renounce her family for me. . . .

    Poulette
    Ursin, you are magnificent.

    Vignevielle (modestly)
    Just an old pirate, my dear. But, I see it pleases you.

    Poulette
    More than anything you have ever done for me, and you have done much.

    Vignevielle
    Then, let us all—and you too, ma mere—celebrate. And where better than at the Cafe des Exiles?

    Zalli
    You go ahead. I must speak to Pere Jerome privately.

    (Vignevielle and Tite Poulette enter the Cafe and are greeted by Major Shaughnessy and D'Hemencourt.)

    Zalli
    I have sinned, Pere Jerome. I lied.

    Jerome Go— I absolve you. God can forgive almost anything to a mother's love.

    (Zalli goes into the Cafe and joins the others.)

    Jerome God—lay not this sin to her charge. I know you will not.

    (Pere Jerome is about to go into the Cafe when Parson Jones enters, looking for Colossus.)

    Jones (yelling)
    Colossus! I say, Colossus, where are you, sar? (he turns around and meets Pere Jerome) Oh, excuse me, sar. I see you are a member of the clergy, of ah— (he really can't be rude) Hmmm—a Catholic. I can't say I have ever met a Catholic priest before. (he is rather surprised Pere Jerome doesn't bite)

    Pere Jerome
    Of course. Good day.

    Jones
    Parson Jones.

    Jerome Parson Jones. I am called Pere Jerome.

    Jones
    Very pleased to meet you, sar.

    (They boy and Jones walks off; Pere Jerome hesitates before entering the Cafe.)

    Jerome I could preach a sermon about the things I have seen here these last few days. But, would anyone understand it the way I intend it?

    (Pere Jerome enters the Cafe.)

    (A slight pause, and Jules and Baptiste saunter in.)

    Baptiste
    You know what happen to Parson Jonez money, Miche?

    Jules
    He lost it, or Miguel stole it.

    Baptiste
    No, no. Colossus took it. He give it back to him already.

    Jules
    And, I feel so guilty. You know what I gon do wid dis money? (showing the roll of bills)

    Baptiste
    No, monsieur.

    Jules
    Well, you can strike me dead if I don't goin to pay half my bills. Allons!

    (Baptiste and Jules saunter out.)

    End of Scene IV.

    CURTAIN