Bow.) Sir, this lady will hand you a description of those articles which she wore when she was found, thirteen years ago. Then let this scoundrel be questioned and if he fail to answer, I will accuse him of an attempted abduction.
Bow. That's the way.
Byke. (Aside.) It will not be a great effort for me to remember.
Bow. (Taking the book from Ray.) Now, sir, I will listen to you.
(Ray and Laura are eager and expectant.)
Byke. (Deliberately.) A soiled gingham frock, patched and torn. (Laura gives a shudder and turns aside.)
Bow. What kind of shoes and stockings?
Byke. Her feet were bare.
Bow. And the color of her hood?
Byke. Her dear little head was uncovered.
Bow. (Handing book back.) He has answered correctly.
Laura. It is useless to struggle more! Heaven alone can help me!
Ray. You can see, sir, that this lady cannot be his daughter. Look at her and at him!
Bow. I only see that he has pretty well proven his case. She must go with him, and let her learn to love him as a daughter should.
Ray. She shall not! I will follow him wherever he goes.
Byke. (Taking Laura's hand.) I appeal to the Court.
Bow. Officer, take charge of that person, until this gentleman is gone.
Byke. (Coming forward with Laura who is dumb and despairing.) My child, try and remember the words of the good judge. "You must learn to love me as a daughter should." (Leading her towards R. H.)
Snorkey. (To Ray.) Stay here, sir, I'll track him. No one suspects me!
Laura R. H.Byke R. C.Snorkey C.Ray L. H.
SCENE II.—Exterior of the Tombs, with ballads on strings upon the railings. Enter Judas followed by Peachblossom L. H. 1 E.
Peach. Only tell me where he has taken her, and I'll go with you indeed I will.
Judas. We don't want you, we wouldn't be bothered with you, she's our game.
Pearl. What are you going to do with her?
Judas. Do! why we'll coin her. Turn her into dollars. We've had it on foot for a long time.
Peach. What! Is she the rich young lady I heard you and Byke speak of so often before I got away from you?
Judas. (Savagely.) Heard me speak of! What did you hear?
Peach. (Dancing off.) O, I know! I know more than you suppose. When you used to lock me up in the back cellar for running away, you forgot that doors had key-holes.
Judas. (Aside.) This girl must be silenced.
