The Americans Part 41

SECOND MILITIAMAN.

Most of us boys are sons of workingmen.

THIRD MILITIAMAN.

I never thought of that.

FOURTH MILITIAMAN.

Buck's about right, too, kids.

We came here to see the square thing done, Not to be half-sole to the old man's boot.

FIRST MILITIAMAN.

Let's set Buck free.

SECOND MILITIAMAN.

What do you say, kids?

(_They go into the mill-yard, talking earnestly_)

SECOND SENTRY.

Dan!

(_The First Sentry joins him and they whisper together_)

FIRST SENTRY.

(_Starts with the other for the gate_)

I've nothing against Buck.

SECOND SENTRY.

Haskell's too fast.

(_They enter the mill-yard_)

ACT III

THE MANSION

_Scene: The great reception hall in the Egerton mansion. One sees at a glance that this is the original of the shadow hall shown in the Dream-Vision in the First Act. The carved mountain lion crouches upon the newel-post, and upon the walls the figures of men at work among the pines are identical with those of the Vision. But here, seen under a natural light, the grotesque grandeur of it all stands out in clear relief. Forward, left and right, just where the great arch separating the main hall comes down, groups of little pines in tubs lend a freshness to the scene._

_A brilliant company is gathered. Everywhere, from gestures and lifted eyes, it is evident that the mansion, especially the strange scene upon the walls, is the chief topic of talk among the guests. Centre right, about the piano, a number of young people are watching a couple that is out upon the floor, apparently practising a new step. Near the pines, forward left, General Chadbourne turns from the butler, with whom he has been speaking, to shake hands with some ladies. Later, Ralph Ardsley appears just inside the door, forward right, and holds up a gla.s.s of wine. Two or three men notice him and nudge their companions, and one after another saunter past Ardsley into the side room._

_Time: The same afternoon about five o'clock._

RALPH ARDSLEY.

Get me the eye of Chadbourne.

FIRST MAN.

General!

(_Out on the floor the couple that is waltzing jostles an elderly lady_)

LADY IN BLACK.

Why can't they wait until----

ELDERLY LADY.

Now run away.

You've got all night for this tomfoolery.

MRS. EGERTON.

George!

(_The young people gradually drift out into the conservatory_)

CHADBOURNE.

(_Rejoining the Butler_)

For it's something that concerns the strike.

BUTLER.

Yes, sir.

CHADBOURNE.

And it's important.

BUTLER.

Yes, sir.

SECOND MAN.